camping travel bag

RS Recommends: The Best Camping Bags and Duffels for Your Next Getaway

By Oscar Hartzog

Oscar Hartzog

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

All that camping gear, clothing and supplies need an efficient means of transportation. But if you’re driving to a campsite with the family or venturing to a wilderness destination solo, a real backpacking rig might not be the best luggage choice. That’s where a rugged camping bag comes in.

One of the best types of bags for camping and outdoorsy adventures is a versatile duffel or duffel-backpack hybrid. The soft design means it can hold plenty of oddly-sized gear, but won’t take up unnecessary space when not in use or when half-packed. Plus, various carrying options such as drop handles, shoulder strap and optional backpack straps provide helpful flexibility. And without wheels, structuring or a hardshell, duffels can be extremely lightweight.

Campers, whether casual or hardcore, use duffel bags for road trips, off-road adventures and air travel. These carry-all bags also come in handy for non-camping adventures such as visiting family, weekend getaways or less outdoorsy vacations.

If your luggage closet is lacking a great camping bag, read on. We’ve rounded up some of the best camping and outdoor travel bags that you can order right now.

What to Know Before Buying a Camping Bag

Size : How long is your typical getaway? If it’s just a night or two, go for a smaller bag around 40 to 50 liters. Most of our picks are sized for a long weekend, but larger options (around 70 liters) should hold enough gear for a week of traveling. Plus, if you plan on using your bag as a carry-on, be sure it fits your airline’s regulations.

Handles and Straps : How you carry a particular bag is paramount when shopping. If you’re just road tripping, a streamlined duffel with drop handles is all you need. But if you’re walking through an airport or hiking with the bag, you’ll want something with a shoulder strap, or, even better, backpack straps.

Material : The lighter a bag the better. However, many travelers and outdoors people sacrifice some weight for more durability and weatherproofing. One way to check durability is by looking at the denier rating of a nylon bag. This indicates how tough the bag is, ranging from about 500 to 1000 denier.

Editor’s picks

The 250 greatest guitarists of all time, the 500 greatest albums of all time, the 50 worst decisions in movie history, every awful thing trump has promised to do in a second term.

Style : Even if your new bag spends most of its time out in the wild, it’s still a good idea to invest in something stylish that you’ll want to carry around the city (if need be).

The Best Camping Duffel Bags

1. the north face base camp duffel bag.

This Base Camp duffel from The North Face is our favorite bag for packability and durability. The first secret to the Base Camp’s success is strength. This ruggedness comes in the form of ballistic weave fabric that’s been coated for protection against rain and snow. The second draw with the Base Camp bag is versatility, thanks to packable backpack straps, a shoulder strap and drop handles. The bag is also loaded with convenient features including a collapsible design for storage, as well as an exterior compartment to separate dirty clothes or shoes. Lastly, the 71-liter capacity with this medium-sized option is large enough for four or five days but not overkill as an overnight bag.

Come for the Torture, Stay for the Poetry: This Might Be Taylor Swift's Most Personal Album Yet

Madonna sued again for late concerts: 'a consumer's worst nightmare', trump calls for less courthouse security, more maga protests, trump privately rages about his sketch artist, courtroom nap reports.

Buy The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag $149

2. YETI Crossroads 60L Duffel 

YETI isn’t as well-known for their bags as the other brands on our list, but their sturdy duffel is equally worth your consideration. Although the design looks streamlined, it has structured foam walls to keep it from drooping in on itself like other foldable duffel bags. For extra support, removable compression straps can be used internally to keep your stuff secure, or externally to tighten to bag’s seal. As far as pocket organization, the Crossroads scores very high with two divider panels that separate the bag into three sections, and two interior mesh pockets. The bag also comes in three size options (35, 40 and 60-liter) for every type of adventure.

Buy YETI Crossroads 60L Duffel $250

3. Carhartt Legacy 25 Inch Utility Duffel

Carhartt may have recently become a prominent brand in streetwear, but their roots are still in tough-as-nails workwear. This Legacy Series Duffel showcases Carhartt’s talent for rugged, no-nonsense products with a durable synthetic fabric and Rain Defender water repellent. With a multi-pocket design (large front flap pockets and zippered exterior compartments) makes this bag very handy when it comes to storage. It’s ideal for an overnight trip or as a secondary bag on longer trips. The whole thing has a padded, adjustable shoulder strap, so you can take all your necessary gear on the go.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs Orlando Magic Livestream: Where to Watch the NBA Playoff Game Online

T-pain, lupe fiasco performances highlight coachella’s heineken house on weekend one.

Buy Carhartt Legacy 25 Inch Utility Duffel $89.99

4. Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffel Bag

Along with The North Face Base Camp, the Patagonia Black Hole is often considered one of best camping and outdoor bags on the market. It was one of the first duffels to really change the game with an extra-durable construction and a modern look. The showstopper with the Black Hole is the fabric: 900-denier laminated ripstop with a DWR water-repellent finish. In plain English, that’s very, very strong material. The bag also features removable backpack straps that users say are very comfortable for long treks (or waiting in line at the airport). Plus, the bag looks cool too, which never hurts.

Buy Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffel Bag $139

5. Herschel Novel Duffle 

If you’re more of a “glamper” than a camper, check out this Novel duffel from Herschel. It’s a stylish means of transporting lightweight items like clothing with a fabric liner construction, streamlined handles, and s signature shoe storage compartment on the side of the bag. We’re big fans of the navy color and the classic woven Herschel logo because they give the bag a handsome throwback look that you don’t see very often.

Buy Herschel Novel Duffle $89.99

6. Marmot Long Hauler Travel Duffel Bag

Marmot’s Long Hauler is another rugged, versatile hybrid bag fit for any outdoorsmen. The duffel boasts some serious numbers in terms of fabric quality with 1680-denier nylon reinforcement to guard against any drops and scuffs in the wild or the airport. We recommend this large version of the Long Hauler for its versatile 75-liter capacity. It’ll fit just about everything you need for a few days or longer depending on needs. A variety of straps, including backpack straps (that combine for a drop handle) and handles on all sides, make the bag easy to carry from any angle.

Buy Marmot Long Hauler Duffel Bag

7. Osprey Transporter 65 Travel Duffel Bag

The first thing you’ll notice about the Osprey Transporter is its streamlined look – despite its extra-large 130-liter size. The second thing you’ll notice is the comfort provided by the backpack straps (which feature a yoke and harness). Side handles and an optional shoulder strap are also available, but this is really more of a backpack than a duffel. The fabric boasts the adventure-ready durability you’d expect from Osprey with a weather-resistant TPU coating. Inside you’ll find plenty of space and compartments for all your stuff, including a padded pocket for gadgets.

Buy Osprey Transporter 65 Travel Duffel Bag

8. Filson Small Rugged Twill Duffle Bag 

Filson started way back in 1897 crafting outdoor gear for pioneers, but their brand has changed a bit in the last 120 years. While Filson retains a reputation for tough outdoor essentials, the brand has edged into upscale fashion territory with a unique old school look. This Field duffel represents Filson’s new character with a durable build and a very stylish throwback design. Unlike most outdoor bags, the Filson Field duffel is made of twill (don’t worry, it’s still water-repellent and abrasion-resistant). The bag is on the small side, however, so we recommend using it as an overnight bag for quick getaways to the outdoors…or a friend’s house.

Buy Filson Small Rugged Twill Duffle Bag $350

9. Baboon To The Moon Go-Bag Big 

Baboon To The Moon is a brand specializing in travel essentials that will last, going against the fast fashion grain. Their goal is to craft highly-usable, timelessly stylish bags for the 21st century. We think they’ve done just that, and this Go-Bag duffle is a great example of their accomplishment. It’s not flashy yet sure to stand out in a sea of black bags on the luggage carousel. But the duffle delivers in terms of function as well with a durable, waterproof shell materials, a lockable zipper head closure and a variety of pockets for every need. Inside you’ll also find multiple stash pockets, and a capacity to fit 5+ days worth of clothing, exemplifying Baboon To The Moon’s dedication to bags for the modern user.

Buy Baboon To The Moon Go-Bag Big $199

10. Gregory Supply Duffel 60L

Another great mid-size duffel is this one from Gregory. The Supply duffel, as it’s called, features 60 liters yet weighs just over 1 pound. Despite its lightness, the bag is extremely durable with a Kevlar-reinforced fabric bottom panel, a nylon upper, and reinforced handles. Gregory has also given attention to the details, with features like lockable zippers with T-grip handles for easier opening/closing action. Besides the roomy main compartment, the bag also has a quick-access side pocket for smaller items.

Buy Gregory Supply Duffel 60L $99.95

11. Peak Design Travel Duffel

Looking for something smaller? Check out this Peak Design Travel duffel. With a 35-liter capacity, it’s great for long hikes, overnight trips without too much gear, or as a secondary bag. But it’s also great for day-to-day activities in the city (i.e. maybe hitting the gym or bringing a change of clothes to your significant other’s place). You can also carry it using built-in backpack straps, a cross-body shoulder strap, or drop handles. Plus, the bag is durable weatherproof nylon, meaning it can get caught in a storm or dropped in a puddle without soaking the contents.

Buy Peak Design Travel Duffel $129.95

How to Watch the Lakers vs. Nuggets NBA Playoff Series Online

• By John Lonsdale

The 40+ Best Amazon Deals of the Week, From Apple AirPods Pro to Bowflex Dumbbells

• DEALS, DEALS, DEALS
• By John Lonsdale and Sage Anderson

Here's Where You Can Watch 'Dune: Part Two' Online

• STREAMING GUIDE

Perk Up Your Morning Brew With The 10 Best Coffee Subscriptions Online

• sip sip hooray
• By Sage Anderson

How to Score Taylor Swift's Viral Pickleball Skirt (Designed By A Fellow Swiftie)

• wildest dreams

Most Popular

The rise and fall of gerry turner's stint as abc's first 'golden bachelor', which new taylor swift songs are about matty healy, joe alwyn or travis kelce breaking down 'tortured poets department' lyric clues, prince william’s bond with his in-laws sheds a light on his 'chilly' relationship with these royals, college football ‘super league’ pitch deck details breakaway plan, you might also like, ‘a knight’s tale’ director reveals axed sequel ideas and says ‘netflix tested’ one ‘idea through their algorithms, which indicated it would not be successful’, getting ready with mia moretti at coachella: the dj talks going sheer in balmain, katy perry’s pizza bikini merch and fashion’s ‘codependent’ relationship with music, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors, for ‘seven’ restoration, david fincher went back and ‘kissed in some of the city’, alexis ohanian’s 776 foundation invests in women’s sports bar.

Rolling Stone is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Rolling Stone, LLC. All rights reserved.

Verify it's you

Please log in.

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Gear » Best Camping Backpacks

BEST Camping Backpacks – Expert Advice for Backpackers 2024

Welcome to my EPIC list of the  best camping backpacks  on the market right now!

Stepping away from the routine of everyday life and into the wilderness is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. We all go camping for different reasons. We want to be reminded of what’s out there, what we are truly a part of, and how easy it is to connect to each other without distraction.

To get the most out of your next camping experience however, you are going to need an awesome backpack. There is an infinity of backpacks out there… So where does one even start?

The type of backpack you will need will depend on your adventure goals. Do you want to sleep in the forest under the redwoods? How about on a snowy mountain in Pakistan? In the hot desert? Just for fun in your backyard? With 5 of your closest friends at a music festival?

Finding the perfect backpack does not have to be time-consuming or arduous. This review of the best camping backpacks was crafted with every type of backpacker in mind so that you can quickly and easily find the perfect backpack for your individual needs.

More camping and less scouring the internet – that is what we are about. Let’s dive right in and take a look at some good camping backpacks for your next trip …

Quick Answer: These are the Best Camping Backpacks of 2024

How this article is set up, #1 osprey aether 70 – best overall camping backpack .

• #2 Granite Gear Crown3 60 – Best Camping Backpack for a Weekend Warrior

#3 Osprey Exos 58 – Best Camping Backpack for a Thru-Hiker

#4 osprey poco plus child carrier – best camping backpack for new parents, #5 deuter futura pro 34 sl – best women’s camping backpack, #6 osprey ace 50 – best camping backpack for a young adventurer, #7 dam 2-1 backpack cooler cb30 – best cooler backpack, #8 hyperlite mountain gear 2400 southwest – best ultralight camping backpack, #9 lowepro protactic 45 aw – best camping backpack for an adventure photographer, #10 patagonia terravia pack – best glamping backpack, #11 rei flash 22 – best side kick camping backpack, how and where we tested to find the top camping backpacks, faq about the best camping backpacks.

• #1 Osprey Aether 70  – Best Overall Camping Backpack
• #2 Granite Gear Crown3 60 – Best Camping Backpack for a Weekend Warrior
• #3 Osprey Exos 58 – Best Camping Backpack for a thru-hiker
• #4 Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier  – Best Camping Backpack for New Parents 
• #5 Deuter Futura Pro 34 SL  – Best Women’s Camping Backpack
• #6 Osprey Ace 50  – Best Camping Backpack for a Young Adventurer 
• #8 Lowepro ProTactic 45 AW – Best Camping Backpack for an Adventure Photographer
• #9 Patagonia Terravia Pack 22L  – Best Glamping Backpack 
• #10 REI Flash 22  – Best Side-Kick Camping Backpack 

Osprey Aether 70

• > Sustainable Design

Granite Gear Crown3 60

• > Roll-top, ultralight, weather-worthy design and adjustable hipbelt

Osprey Exos 58

• > Ultralight for long carries

Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier

• > Always carry on compliant

Deuter Futura Pro 34 SL

• > Perfect Carrier for your Precious Cargo

Osprey Ace 50 Pack

• > 4 in. of Adjustability to Grow as your Child Grows

DAM 2-IN-1 Backpack

• > 2-IN-1 Cooler Backpack

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Pack

• > Waterproof, Rugged, and Light

Lowepro ProTactic 45 AW

• > Water repellant

Patagonia Terravia Pack

• > Extremely Comfortable

REI Flash 22

• > Ultimate Daypack for Basecamp Operations

Here I have laid out 10 different camping backpacks and the common camping scenarios you may find yourself in. Scroll through to identify with the scenarios to see which backpack would most likely benefit you. We selected from the best camping brands out there so you’ve got some quality options.

If you are a Renaissance man or woman (like Pope Pius), many of these options will work well. Feel free to let your imagination loose and learn about the key attributes of each bag to find the one that best fits your lifestyle and journey in the outdoors, after all, when you’re trying to figure out your camping and adventure travel packing list , it all starts with your backpack!

So, without any further delay, let’s take a look at the best camping bags out there in 2024!

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

• Straps:  Fully Adjustable
• Weight:  5 lbs 3.7 oz
• Material:  1880D Recycled Nylon Canvas
• Sustainable Design
• Made from durable recycled materials
• Timeless look for a lifetime of adventure

Full disclosure, I’m the type of person who likes to make one excellent purchase over a minefield of small hit or misses. The first thought I had when holding this bag is that it feels like a lifetime companion. It’s made from recycled materials that are extremely durable and can withstand almost any environment. Coupled with the slim design, this backpack can make its way through sharp slot canyons, or overgrown bush in the forest.

Its size will accommodate all of your camping gear, and the smart compartment breakdown will help you keep everything nice and organized. The pack is complete with an adjustable harness system so it can be maneuvered to fit almost every possible body type.

Whether you set up basecamp 50ft from your car or 13,00ft in the air, the Archeon 70 will help you do it all. It’s made by one of the best outdoor brands , so you won’t be let down.

Our team rated this as their best camping backpack for a few different reasons, one of them being just how cool and neat this thing looks. But it’s not all about looks, they felt the technology in the back panel really made the difference when it came to staying comfortable and cool on long hikes. Other key features they loved included the separate sleeping back pocket and the zippered expanded opening which took the hassle out of having a top loader when it came to accessing their gear.

#2 Granite Gear Crown3 60  – Best Camping Backpack for a Weekend Warrior

• Weight: 2 lbs 9.3 oz
• Material:  210-denier high-tenacity nylon

Each weekend is an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of your day to day. With so many adventures out there waiting to be had, this Granite Gear Crown3 makes for a great hiking backpack no matter the occasion. You will be ready for it all.

It’s lightweight, fully adjustable and ready for the elements. With a 60L capacity it can easily accommodate a multi-day trip, and if you are out for a single night, then the compression straps will help you reel it in when you are following a minimalist path.

The team felt this was the best backpack for camping for weekend trips with the Dual-density shoulder harness and load-lifter straps really making it comfortable on the trails. The hip and sternum straps too added to the design of this bag that really does take the load off your back and shoulders well. They also like the fact that the brain is removable from the bag meaning it’s easy to slim things down.

• Weight: 2 lbs 13 oz
• Material:  100D High Tenacity Nylon
• AirSpeed Suspension
• Removeable lid

So, you are camping for multiple days, in multiple locations, huh? The Osprey Exos is a dream for a thru-hiker. I hauled this bad boy with me 1,800 miles across the New Zealand bush , and it proved to be a solid choice to carry all of my hiking gear.

It’s lightweight which is crucial when carrying a backpack for distance, and the Airspeed suspension system helps to evenly distribute the load so it feels weightless (or as weightless as can be when slogging offtrail and uphill!)

What stood out to me most about this pack was it’s comfort. The Cushioned ExoForm shoulder straps and hipbelt molds nicely on your body without rubbing or putting to much pressure anywhere.

The team just loved the design elements and features of this bag that just make it feel like it was actually made by people who hike. The angled water bottle pocket for example makes it easy to grab your bottle without having to take the pack off and the front stash pockets are ideal for throwing your waterproof jacket into without soaking everything else through. The AirSpeed Suspension system was also a winner when it came to comfort.

• Weight:  7 lbs 14 oz
• Material:  210D Nylon Diamond
• Extremely comfortable cockpit seat
• Sunshade for your young one
• Ample Storage

I know there are many legitimate excuses to stay at home with your offspring, but Osprey takes a few of them away with their Poco Child Carrier.

The pack is fully adjustable making it easy to share the load of your precious cargo with a partner, and the extra storage space leaves room for baby supplies and camping supplies alike.

The cockpit is designed to be both comfortable and safe. Your baby can enjoy a nap under the sunshade while you traverse mountain ridges. There is also a removable and washable drool pad. They’ve thought of it all, haven’t they?

The team reckon this bad boy is the best bag for camping for those will mini people in tow! They felt this bag really outdid the others on the market by providing a much better support system that also allows great ventilation for the back. They also felt it offered much better storage for your other gear too without becoming too heavy.

• Straps:  Self Adjusting Shoulder Straps
• Weight:  3 lbs 7 oz
• Material:  Dynajin 210-denier nylon/closed-cell foam
• Women’s Specific
• Removable Raincover
• Comes with a sweet accent flower

In the world of women’s specific items, there is a lot of fluff but not with backpacks. It was my job to outfit eager adventurers in backpacks and I have to say that the torso length, hip consideration, and shoulder width variations on these packs made many women very happy.

The Deuter Futura Pro 34 is a great first hiking backpack. The size is perfect for day hikes that require more than the basic essentials or an overnight trip with minimal camping gear. The women’s specific components help this pack fit like a glove. 

The ladies on the team rated this as one of their favourite backpacks for camping because they found the fit, in particular, to be perfect for their body shape. They loved the super comfortable shoulder and hip straps and were especially impressed by how they could be adjusted with padded inserts for a perfect fit. The separate zippered bottom compartment and the valuables pocket at the top also provided them with a good amount of organisational features too.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

• Straps:  4-6 inches of adjustability
• Weight:  2 lbs 15 oz
• Material:  210-denier nylon double-diamond ripstop
• Max comfort
• Adjustability to accomodate growth
• Leave No Trace principles written inside

Im a firm believer that kids need to be outside— a lot. They need to roll around in the grass, get dirt under their nails, and establish a connection to the natural world early on.

Osprey has created the Ace Kid’s Backpacking Series to get them out on the trail with you early. The series offers three different sizes depending on your child’s age, but each are equipped with adjustability to grow as your child grows.

The quality on these kids hiking backpacks is not compromised here, Osprey makes them with the same care as every product they produce.

The team loved this bag and felt where it really stood out was in the fact that it still had all the features they would expect from a full-sized bag whilst fitting kids and smaller folks perfectly. The shoulder and hip system in particular still had a range of technology including a frame and top-level ventilation meaning youngsters aren’t discouraged by dragging along an uncomfortable bag.

• Size: 30L (7.5L Cooler) / 50L (10.5L Cooler)
• Straps:  Adjustable
• Weight: 2.75lbs
• Material: Durable rPET upper material
• Dedicated cooler section separate from main pack
• Padded laptop section
• Can be used not only on hike but for your commute too

Have you ever finally reached the summit of a mountain, watched the sun set behind the most stunning landscape and thought… man, I wish I could crack open a cold one! Or, maybe you just wish that pasta salad that’s been sat in a sunbaked backpack for hours wasn’t a nasty tepid mess! We hear ya and “Dam” do we have the perfect solution!

This innovative backpack from Dam coolers is the ideal solution for those warm summer hikes. Coming in either a 50L or 30L model this pack not only has heaps of room for things like your camera, jackets, headtorch and snacks. But they also feature a dedicated cooler section at the bottom. How ‘cool’ is that! You get either 7.5L or 10L of cool storage, so ideal for a day trip

What’s even better is that this pack has a padded laptop section, protected shades holder, zippered phone and side pockets and cushioned hip belt. This means that for the weight it’s pretty comfy and it can easily double as a great commuter bag with the cooler being the perfect spot to keep your lunch cool.

The only downside to this bag is that it can be quite heavy compared to the others, especially if it’s loaded with cans! It’s more suited toward casual day hiking, and picnics on the beach after a coastal jaunt as well as being able to keep it on your back once Monday comes around!

The team loved the idea of this bag and felt it was ideal for short summer hikes where you just want to crack open a few tinnies after your trek. The bag is on the smaller side but they were still pretty impressed by how it manages to divide its space up well allowing for some snacks or drinks below and a jacket and a few items of clothing above.

• Extremely Durable
• Handcrafted

It’s extremely easy  and common to overpack on a camping trip , especially if it’s your first one. You might want to bring multiple outfit changes, the entire medicine cabinet, and your favorite hardcover novels to keep you company. However, there might be a time when you succumb to minimalism, and when that time comes, this hiking backpack will be ready for you.

This pack is great for an experienced hiker whose primary goal is to cut every spare ounce of weight to get a minimalist setup. It could be to travel farther, faster— or perhaps just to relieve extra stress on the knees. When saving every oz is the name of the game, Hyperlite Mountain Gear needs to be on your radar.

Oftentimes when a product goes ultralight, durability can come into question. Not here. This pack is constructed with tightly woven 150-denier Dynema to add the durability back in while keeping the pack weight minimal.

For those wanting to keep everything to a minimum, the team rated this as one of their top best bags for camping. They felt the lightweight construction didn’t compromise on shoulder comfort or padding and in fact due to the lighter weight, they rated it up there as one of their most comfortable bags ever. They also love the roll top fastening combined with the waterproof material which really did give them extra peace of mind when trekking.

• Weight:  3.08lbs
• Material:  2x durable and water repellant coating
• Water repellant
• Designed to be used on the move
• Meets carry-on standards for most airlines

This is the ultimate backpack for the adventure photographer. As an adventurous photographer myself, keeping camera gear safe AND accessible is one of my top priorities. I have to say that it is challenging to find a backpack that meets those standards while also offering space for camping equipment.

ALAS! The Atlas Lowepro pack is an answer to my prayers (yes I pray to God for backpacks). It is designed by photographers, for photographers and I have to say that they nailed it. The rear access camera compartment offers a home for equipment to stay safe and secure while being accessible when inspiration hits.

The photographers on our team were super impressed with this bag and felt it really hit the spot when it came to providing them with the perfect camera bag for hiking. The interior camera cube allowed them to keep all their gear organised and safe but crucially (and rarely for camping bags) accessible with ease. They also loved just how much extra space there was for all their camping gear and didn’t feel too compromised for the inclusion of the camera section.

Looking for a similar bag of the same size, have a look at the Arc’teryx Konseal Backpack .

• Weight:  1 lb 16.3 oz
• Material:  210-denier CORDURA ripstop nylon; lining: 200-denier polyester
• Extremely Comfortable
• Smart Pocket Design
• Durable water repellent (DWR) finish to shed moisture

This 22L hiking backpack from Patagonia is the ultimate day pack. I love it when scrambling on the trails, but also to help transport camping accessories and various hygiene camping essentials  from my apartment in the city to the wilderness. It’s a great companion to help set up a home away from home in the woods or on a beautiful mountain vista.

This pack is designed with ultra comfort in mind. It has padding on the shoulders and hip belt, and the back-panel is made from breathe-able mesh allowing airflow to keep you cool in case things heat up. Trust me, if you are sporting this stylist look… they certainly will.

The team love that there was a smaller option on the market still aimed squarely at hikers. For the minimalists or those going on shorter trips (or glamping!) it was perfect for keeping things light and fun. The awesome black on black exterior also looks the part too and the team were impressed by its sleek and compact design. They also enjoyed the massive front stash pocket for jackets and other accessories.

Looking for a Patagonia bag in particular? Check out our rundown of the best Patagonia backpacks .

• Weight: 14oz
• Material:  Nylon
• Light and Packable
• Back panel can be removed to be a sit pad
• Used outdoors but also great for city travel

This frameless hiking backpack is the perfect bag to have when you’ve setup camp and want to explore. Whether that’s climbing your friendly neighbourhood mountain, a trip to the river for water, or a mission to find the perfect place to read a book— this is my go-to bag.

The Flash 22 is also great for use when you are out of the woods as well. A bike commute, a trip to the grocery store, or a stroll on a local trail would all benefit from this side-kick tagging along.

The team felt this bag was a cool option for those wanting something no-frills that gets the job done and does it well. They also loved that it was versatile enough to use for day-to-day travel or just daily use back home too. They felt it was also super lightweight and also that the lid closure feature was perfect for adding some extra protection to their gear from the elements.

Looking for something similar with a bit more room? Have a gander at the Rei Flash 55 Backpack instead.

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. 😉

How to Choose the Right Camping Backpack

Now that you’ve been introduced to several types of backpacks for different camping scenarios, how do you chose? What attributes are important to consider? Don’t worry, I’ve got you. Consider the following:

Weight should be a factor to consider. If you are trying to save every ounce for a thru-hike or to be kinder to your knees you can look for a backpack in the 2lb range.

The size and fit of the bag are also both extremely important. Some bags come in small, medium, large, or perhaps some version of xs/sm or med/lg. The size you need is dictated by the length of your spine from the top of your iliac crest to the C7 vertebra. I’ve seen 6’7″ guys be an extra small, and 5’4″ be a large. It’s a crazy world out there!

Perhaps the most important attribute to consider when looking for a camping backpack is the packs capacity. Capacity is measured in liters and this includes all of the free space in the main compartment as well as all of the outside pockets. Two questions to ask yourself to gauge how many liters your backpack should be are:

How long will you be out?

What gear do you plan on taking with you?

For a multi-night trip where you carry all of your camping supplies, a good starting place is 65L. If you have more experience and like to travel light you can decrease the capacity to 45L, but it truly all depends on the size of your gear ( backpacking tent, sleeping bag, etc).

If you don’t plan on hauling in all of your gear and are using the backpack for daytime hikes then the 20-30L capacity will likely be lovely for you.

To test these packs, we laid our paws on each of them and took them out for a test drive on several different camping trips in different locations around the world. To test them out we looked at these various metrics;

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry stuff! So as such, we tested each pack by literally shoving in our gear and seeing how well it fit! We looked at things like how well each bag facilitated efficient packing and maximised its space.

Not only was it important to check out well our gear went into these packs, but equally, we paid attention to how easily it was to retrieve our items too. It’s no good being able to fit all your camping equipment in your bags if it’s a nightmare to get it out when you need it.

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

Camping gear can get heavy quickly and these bags aren’t the smallest. So we gave extra points to those bags that reduced their weight from the offset. Backpacks that weigh a lot before they’ve even been packed are a no-no on our list!

Not only that but we also looked at how well each bag handled its weight when packed out too. Well-designed backpacks distribute weight evenly and comfortably across your frame. They also have comfortable shoulder straps and a waistband that takes the weight off your back!

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

Functionality

In order to test out how well these camping backpacks performed, well, we used them for that exact purpose. We packed them out with all the essentials and headed off into the backcountry for an adventure.

You might be taking these packs out into the wild far away from society, but you never know who you’ll bump into on the trails, right!? Some folks out there think looks don’t matter, but you might meet the love of your life whilst on a hike. So you’ve got to look good!! So, we added gave extra points to sexy backpacks!

Durability and Weatherproofing

When it comes to camping backpacks, they need to be both durable and weatherproof too. They’re going to be carrying important gear into the wilds and coming up against some pretty challenging conditions. So we expected a lot from these packs!

To test their waterproofing we got all scientific and poured a pint or two of water over each one. Leaky packs were banished from our list!

In terms of durability, we would have loved to have thrown each pack from a plane to check out how well it stood up to the challenge, but our budgets don’t quite reach that far! Instead, we inspected the build quality of each bag by looking at things like seam sewing, pressure points that often wear out quicker than others and the tractions of zips. We were also sure to use the bags over a few months too so we could get an idea of how each one performed over time.

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

Which is the most affordable camping backpack?

The Patagonia Terravia Pack 22L combines a relatively low price with great design and amazing durability. Another great budget option is the REI Flash 22 .

Are there any camping backpacks for women?

The torso length, hip consideration, and shoulder width variations make the Deuter Futura Pro 34 SL the best camping backpack for women.

Can you hike with a camping backpack?

You can definitely wear a camping backpack on a short to moderately-long hiking trip. Most camping backpacks are designed to carry heavy gear and sit comfortably over a long time.

What is the best waterproof camping backpacks?

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest is made form waterproof material and therefore our go-to for those rainy days.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Final Thoughts on the Best Camping Backpacks

The goal is to get out there, you and your backpack. Survive and thrive. No matter your purpose, there is a backpack tailored to your specific needs. How cool is that?

If you are still wondering which pack is for you, keep in mind my top pick for camping backpacks—the Osprey Archeon . There are few scenarios that this backpack won’t thrive in, which is why we reckon it’s the best camping bag on the market.

You always return from a camping trip with more than what you started with. Memories of good times or perhaps a tale of something gone awry. No matter what, the rejuvenation that nature provides stays with you.

What is your essential camping backpack? Let me know in the comments below!

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

Aiden Freeborn

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Advertisement

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 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. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, 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.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

• Spring Turkey
• Spring Turkey Hunting Essentials
• Turkey Decoys
• Turkey Calls
• Turkey Hunting Clothing & Footwear
• Spring Turkey Boots
• Shooting Accessories
• Blinds and Chairs
• Turkey Calls and Decoys
• Turkey Shotguns and Ammunition
• Turkey Vests, Clothing, and Footwear
• Opening Day Must-Haves
• New Spring Turkey Gear
• RedHead & SHE Outdoor Striker Elite Turkey Vests
• Spring Turkey Hunting
• Turkey Hunting Clothing
• Arrows & Accessories
• Broadheads & Field Points
• Archery Targets
• Archery Accessories
• New Archery
• Food Plots & Feeding
• Feed/Attractants/Minerals
• Food Plot Seeds & Accessories
• Game Feeders
• Implements And Tools
• Big Game Calls
• Predator Calls
• Waterfowl Calls
• Other Game Calls
• Duck & Goose Decoys
• Big Game Decoys
• Predator Decoys
• Small Game Decoys
• Hunting Accessories
• 2 Way Radios And GPS
• Ground Blinds
• Hunting Chairs
• Scent Elimination
• Waterfowl Accessories
• Harvest Accessories & Game Carts
• Taxidermy Accessories
• Game and Trail Cameras
• Knives & Tools
• Multi-Tools
• Saws, Machetes & Axes
• Knife Sharpeners
• Pocket Knives
• Dog Training
• Electronic Dog Training
• Training Supplies
• Bedding & Shelters
• Chews, Treats & Toys
• Game & Food Processing
• Meat Grinders
• Vacuum Sealers
• Dehydrators
• Sausage Stuffers
• Food Processing Accessories
• Batters & Mixes
• Grill Accessories
• Hunting Clothing
• Men's Hunting Clothing
• Women's Hunting Clothing
• Hunting Clothing Sale
• Scent Control Hunting Clothing
• Kids' Hunting Clothing
• Hunting Waders
• Tactical Clothing
• Upland Hunting Clothing
• Waterfowl Hunting Clothing
• Turkey Vests
• Big & Tall Hunting Clothing
• New Hunting Clothing
• Tree Stands
• Ladder Stands
• Fixed Position Stands
• Climbing Stands
• Box Blinds/Tripods
• Safety Harnesses
• Stick Ladders/Steps
• Treestand Accessories
• Hunting Packs & Bags
• Optics and Scopes
• Rangefinders
• Spotting Scopes
• Red Dot Sights
• Optics Accessories
• Rings, Bases & Mounts
• Thermal Imaging
• Night Vision
• New Hunting
• Hunting Sale
• Centerfire Pistol
• Centerfire Rifles
• Rimfire Rifle
• Rimfire Pistol
• Centerfire Rifle Ammo
• Handgun Ammo
• Shotshell Ammo
• Rimfire Ammo
• Eye & Ear Protection
• Gun Cleaning and Refinishing
• Sticks/Bipods/Rests
• Targets & Trap Throwers
• Ammo Boxes & Utility Boxes
• Shooting Bags/Pouches
• Slings and Accessories
• Gun Storage
• Gun Safes & Vaults
• Gun Cabinets & Racks
• Hard Gun Cases
• Soft Gun Cases
• Choke Tubes
• Firearm Sights
• Stocks, Grips & Recoil Pads
• Replacement Barrels & Triggers
• Weapon Lights & Lasers
• Universal Parts
• Reloading Supplies
• Bullets & Brass
• Dies & Shell Holders
• Presses and Benches
• Primers & Powder
• Shotshell Supplies
• Tools & Accessories
• Black Powder Guns and Accessories
• Black Powder Accessories
• Black Powder Guns
• Black Powder Bullets
• Recreational Shooting
• Airsoft Guns
• Slingshots and Accessories
• Gel Blasters
• Personal Defense
• Rod and Reel Combos
• Spinning Combos
• Baitcast Combos
• Spincast Combos
• Kids' Fishing Rod & Reel Combos
• Saltwater Combos
• Fly Outfits
• Fishing Rods
• Spinning Rods
• Casting Rods
• Trolling Rods
• Saltwater Rods
• Fishing Reels
• Baitcast Reels
• Spinning Reels
• Saltwater Reels
• Spincast Reels
• Line Counter Reels
• Power Assisted Reels
• Hard Bait Lures
• Soft Bait Lures
• Fishing Spoons
• Spinnerbaits & Buzzbaits
• Panfish Lures
• Saltwater Lures
• Fishing Line, Hooks, & Weights
• Fishing Line
• Weights & Sinkers
• Rigs and Components
• Saltwater Terminal
• Lure Building & Molds
• Snaps, Swivels, and Crimps
• Fishing Accessories
• Tools & Pliers
• Fillet Knives & Tables
• Rod Holders & Racks
• Rod & Reel Accessories
• Bait Buckets & Management
• Fishing Nets
• Rulers & Scales
• Saltwater Accessories
• Tackle Boxes and Bags
• Tackle Bags
• Tackle Boxes
• Utility Boxes
• Fly Fishing
• Fly Rods, Reels & Combos
• Flies & Fly Tying
• Fly Line, Leader & Tippet
• Fly Fishing Accessories
• Fly Fishing Waders
• Float Tubes & Pontoons
• Vests, Packs, & Gear Bags
• Sun Protection & Apparel
• New Fly Fishing Gear
• Ice Fishing
• Shelters & Sleds
• Ice Augers and Accessories
• Ice Rods, Reels, & Combos
• Underwater Cameras & Sonar
• Accessories
• Lures & Bait
• Ice Fishing Clothing & Footwear
• New Ice Fishing
• ATV Hitches, Towing, & Plows
• Saltwater Fishing
• New Saltwater Fishing Gear
• Fishing Clothing & Raingear
• Fishing Sunglasses
• New Fishing
• Fishing Sale
• Marine Electronics
• Fish Finders & Navigation
• Sonar Accessories
• Marine Radios & Audio
• Marine Mounts & Cases
• Cases and Covers
• Trolling Motors & Accessories
• Freshwater Trolling Motors
• Saltwater Trolling Motors
• Trolling Motor Accessories
• Boat Accessories
• Rod Holders & Fishing Accessories
• Anchors, Ropes, & Docking
• Batteries & Chargers
• Cleaning Supplies & Organization
• Boat Lights & Navigation
• Carpet & Flooring
• Bilge & Aerator Pumps
• Marine Hardware
• Outboard Motors
• Gasoline Outboard Motors
• Electric Outboard Motors
• Propane Outboard Motors
• Outboard Motor Accessories
• Oils & Accessories
• Fuel Tanks & Accessories
• Prop Accessories
• Gauges & Controls
• Boat Stabilizers
• Boat Covers / Biminis
• Universal Covers
• Custom Fit Covers
• Bimini Tops
• Cover Accessories & Tie Downs
• Boat Seats & Furniture
• Pontoon Furniture
• Saltwater Seating
• Seat Mounts & Pedestals
• Grills, Tables & Umbrellas
• Trailer Accessories
• Winches & Tie Downs
• Guide-Ons, Brackets & Rollers
• Trailer Hitches
• Jacks & Dollies
• Tires & Wheel Accessories
• Wiring & Lights
• Kayaks & Canoes
• Kayaks & Fishing Kayaks
• Kayak & Canoe Accessories
• Paddles & Oars
• Stand-Up Paddle Boards
• Water Sports
• Life Jackets
• Towables & Skis
• Water & Pool Toys
• Boat Center
• Fishing Boats
• Tournament Fishing Boats
• Watersport Boats
• Pontoon Boats
• Saltwater Fishing Boats
• Utility Boats
• Shop All Boats
• Pedal Boats & Pond Prowlers
• Tents and Shelters
• Tent Accessories
• Sleeping Gear
• Sleeping Bags
• Sleeping Pads and Air Beds
• Camp Blankets and Bedding
• Sleeping Gear Accessories
• Packs & Bags
• Packs, Bags, and Luggage Accessories
• Camp Essentials
• Navigation and Radios
• First Aid and Survival
• Camp Tools and Equipment
• Bug Spray & Sunscreen
• Camp Bathroom and Hygiene
• Camp Kitchen
• Camp Cookware
• Camp Stoves
• Supplements and Nutrition
• Flashlights
• Camp Furniture
• Camp Chairs
• Camp Tables and Kitchens
• Hard-Sided Coolers
• Soft-Sided Coolers
• Cooler Parts and Accessories
• Water Storage
• Water Treatment
• Hydration Bladders and Accessories
• Generators and Power
• Power Banks
• Gas Heaters
• Wood and Pellet Stoves
• Electric Heaters
• Heater Accessories
• Emergency Preparedness
• New Camping
• Camping Sale
• Outdoor Rec
• Truck & Auto
• Interior Accessories
• Exterior Accessories
• Maintenance & Organization
• Camper & RV
• Outdoor Power Equipment
• Truck Tents
• Bikes & Accessories
• Mountain Bikes
• Electric Bikes
• Bike Helmets
• Bike Racks & Storage
• Hybrid Bikes
• Cruiser Bikes
• Kids' Bikes
• Bike Parts & Accessories
• Snow Removal Tools
• Yard Maintenance Tools
• Tree Trimming and Cutting Tools
• Outdoor Equipment Batteries
• Winter Snow Toys
• Metal Detecting & Prospecting
• ATV Accessories
• ATV/UTV Accessories
• Racks, Bags & Storage
• Helmets and Goggles
• Ramps and Towing
• Off Road Center
• Side-By-Sides
• Outdoor Recreation Sale
• Shirts & Tops
• Polo Shirts
• Button-Up Shirts
• Sweatshirts & Hoodies
• Jackets, Coats & Outerwear
• Bibs & Coveralls
• Big & Tall Clothing
• Pants & Shorts
• Clothing Accessories
• Hats & Caps
• Overalls, Bibs & Coveralls
• Base Layers
• Gloves, Belts & Accessories
• Men's Hunting Rain Gear
• Scent Control Hunting Clothing for Men
• Hunting Boots
• Rubber Boots
• Work Shoes & Boots
• Men's Casual Footwear
• Men's Boat & Deck Footwear
• Tactical & Duty Boots
• Western Boots
• Winter Pac Boots
• Sneakers & Athletic Shoes
• Fishing & Water Shoes
• Fishing Clothing
• Bottoms & Dresses
• Dresses & Skirts
• Women's Leggings
• Casual Boots & Shoes
• Women's Boat & Deck Footwear
• Women's Work & Duty Boots
• Sports Bras
• Women's Workwear
• Sleepwear & Loungewear
• Women's Shop the Look
• Kids' Jackets
• Youth Insulated/Down Outerwear
• Youth Lightweight Outerwear
• Kids' Rain Gear
• Kids' Gloves
• Kids' Shoes & Boots
• Casual Footwear
• Kids' Slippers
• Base Layer Tops
• Base Layer Bottoms
• Boys' Clothing
• Girls' Clothing
• Kids' Fishing Clothing
• My First Camo
• Home & Gifts
• Area Rugs & Door Mats
• Home Accents
• Window Treatments
• Outdoor Home Decor
• Fire Pits & Logs Racks
• Lawn & Garden
• Patio Furniture
• Wind Chimes
• Mailboxes & Weathervanes
• Sofas & Loveseats
• Furniture Accents
• Bird Feeders
• Bird Houses
• Weather Radios & Stations
• Ride-On Toys
• Electronic Toys
• Outdoor Games
• Kids' Nature
• Shooting Toys
• Stuffed Animals
• Baby & Toddler
• Indoor Games & Toys
• Kitchen & Dining
• Cooking Accessories
• Food & Drink
• Patio & Outdoor Cooking
• Books & DVDs
• Bargain Cave
• Rod & Reel Combos
• Fishing Lures & Baits
• Terminal Tackle
• Tackle Boxes & Bags
• Fishing Gear
• Boat Covers & Bimini
• BC Boat Seats
• Trolling Motor
• Optics & Scopes
• Black Powder
• Game Cameras
• Archery Bows & Crossbows
• Crossbows & Accessories
• Camp Stoves & Cooking
• Cots, Beds & Sleeping Pads
• Flashlights, Lanterns & Lighting
• Prospecting
• Truck & Auto Accessories
• Camping Gear
• Men's Clothing
• Men's Shirts
• Men's Pants & Shorts
• Men's Jackets, Coats, & Outerwear
• Men's Clothing Accessories
• Men's Hats & Caps
• Men's Long Johns
• Men's Swimwear
• Men's Bibs & Coveralls
• Men's Rain Gear
• Women's Clothing
• Women's Shirts & Tops
• Women's Pants, Shorts, Skirts & Dresses
• Women's Clothing Accessories
• Women's Jackets, Coats & Outerwear
• Women's Swimwear
• Women's Hats & Caps
• Women's Sleepwear & Loungewear
• Women's Rain Gear
• Women's Thermals
• Kids' Clothing
• Kids' Shirts & Tops
• Kids' Pants & Shorts
• Kids' Jackets, Coats & Outerwear
• Kids' Hats & Caps
• Kids' Clothing Accessories
• Kids' Pajamas
• Kids' Swimwear
• Baby & Toddler Camo
• Boys Clothing
• Girls Clothing
• Shoes & Boots
• Men's Shoes & Boots
• Women's Shoes & Boots
• Shoes & Boot Accessories
• Grills, Fryers & Smokers

Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

For minimalist overnights to extended treks, our top picks excel in carrying comfort, organization, and weight.

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Gone are the days when backpacking consisted of strapping on a huge external frame and lumbering through the forest with an aching body. Trends in backpacks these days err towards minimalism and thoughtful, ergonomic design. Below are our favorite backpacking backpacks for 2024, from ultralight bags for minimalists and thru-hikers to comfort-oriented options for weekend warriors and extended trips. For background information, see our backpack comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team's Backpacking Backpack Picks

• Best Overall Backpacking Backpack: Osprey Atmos AG 65 / Aura AG 65
• Best Ultralight Backpacking Backpack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55
• Our Favorite Pack for Hauling Heavy Loads: Gregory Baltoro 75 / Deva 70
• Best Balance of Comfort and Lightweight: Osprey Exos 58 / Eja 58
• Best Plus-Size Backpacking Backpack: Gregory Katmai 65  / Kalmia 60
• Best Budget Backpacking Backpack: REI Co-op Trailmade 60

Best Overall Backpacking Backpack

1. osprey atmos ag 65 ($340).

The Atmos AG (and women’s Aura AG) is our top backpacking backpack of the year, deftly balancing comfort, organization, and durability. The attention grabber is the “Anti-Gravity” suspended mesh backpanel, which replaces the protruding foam found on more traditional designs to maximize both ventilation and comfort. But that’s not all the Atmos has going for it: The pocket design is thoughtfully laid out with plenty of options to divvy up gear, the Fit-on-the-Fly harness and hipbelt offer an easily customizable fit, and the premium materials hold up well to rough treatment. Overall, the Atmos is an extremely well-rounded backpack that works great for anything from quick overnight trips to extended jaunts into the backcountry.

With a revamp in the spring of 2022, the most recent Atmos tacks on two side zips for more convenient access to the main compartment, a torso length adjustment, and an integrated raincover. Osprey also modified the pack’s fabrics to prioritize sustainability (like a lot of gear manufacturers, they’ve moved to a PFC-free durable water repellent finish). Subsequently, the Atmos AG 65 also got a price bump, which surprisingly makes it even pricier than the souped-up Aether below. But you won’t find a better balance of weight, carrying comfort, and features for everything from quick overnight missions to week-long backpacking trips, once more earning the Atmos AG 65 a spot at the top of our list. It’s also worth mentioning the relatively new Atmos AG LT 65 ($290; 4 lb. 1 oz.), which streamlines the design but still offers the same comfort and carrying capacity of the original pack... Read in-depth review See the Men's Osprey Atmos AG 65   See the Women's Osprey Aura AG 65

Best Ultralight Backpacking Backpack

2. hyperlite mountain gear southwest 55 ($379).

Gregory has earned a reputation for comfort over the years, and their flagship men’s Baltoro and women’s Deva packs carry on the tradition. These bags are intended to haul heavy loads with strong suspensions, firm but supportive padding, and excellent organization. With a fully mesh backpanel, the most recent version is the best-ventilated iteration yet, and the hip-hugging suspension and pivoting shoulder straps keep the pack stable when hiking over uneven terrain. We also appreciate the generous storage layout for shuttling multi-day loads, including nine exterior pockets, U-shaped front access to the main compartment, and massive hipbelt pockets (made even larger in the latest update) that easily swallow a large smartphone. 

We tested the revamped Baltoro 75 while trekking in Patagonia, and the pack stayed true to its intentions as one of the most comfortable and feature-rich designs on the market. Along with the changes outlined above, the latest version also includes a highly customizable hipbelt and shoulder straps (great for achieving a perfect fit), drops the built-in Sidekick daypack (not a big loss, in our eyes), and uses more recycled materials. But as before, the Baltoro’s biggest downside is its weight: The 75-liter model clocks in around 5 pounds, which is about twice the heft of the 70-liter Hyperlite Southwest. In short, if you aim to keep things light and simple on a backpacking trip, this probably isn’t the pack for you. But if you plan to carry 40 pounds or more, the Baltoro will shoulder the load better than most—and chances are you won’t notice the extra pound or two... Read in-depth review See the Men's Gregory Baltoro 75   See the Women's Gregory Deva 70

Best Balance of Comfort and Lightweight

4. osprey exos 58 ($260).

Osprey is a backpack powerhouse known for quality builds, excellent organization, and comfort, as seen in industry-leading designs like the Atmos/Aura above. First released over a decade ago, the Exos (and women’s Eja) was their original take on an ultralight pack, and is still a popular pick in this category. At 2 pounds 13.4 ounces for the 58-liter version, it can’t compete with streamlined haulers like the Hyperlite Southwest and Gossamer Gear Mariposa (both check in just under 2 lb.), but the additional weight translates to a boost in organizational features, carrying comfort, and ventilation. And with a spring 2022 update, the most recent Exos tacks on a convenient torso-length adjustment and reintroduces hipbelt pockets to the design (surprisingly, these had been removed in the previous version).

If you’re accustomed to a traditional backpack but curious about dipping into the ultralight world, we think the Exos is one of the best places to start. With a robust suspension system and decent feature set, this pack isn't a true UL design, but it’s nevertheless significantly lighter and more streamlined than a pack like the Atmos above. And held up against the similarly intentioned Gregory Focal (below), the Exos tacks on a few more bells and whistles (including the adjustable torso length), and features a slightly more plush backpanel. You do trade off a bit of durability compared to burly traditional haulers or pricier ultralight designs (which generally use Dyneema or tough Robic nylon), but we’ve been surprised with how well the Exos’ 100-denier body and base have held up. For an even more streamlined design from Osprey, check out the Exos Pro 55 ($290), which weighs in at just 2 pounds 1.2 ounces but offers a fairly bare-bones suspension and feature set... Read in-depth review See the Men's Osprey Exos 58   See the Women's Osprey Eja 58

Best Plus-Size Backpacking Backpack

5. gregory katmai 65 plus size ($310).

Up until very recently, it’s been difficult (if not impossible) to find backpacking gear in plus sizes, which has excluded many from enjoying the outdoors. Gregory was one of the first companies to right this wrong, offering their fully featured Katmai 65 (and women’s Kalmia 60) in two plus sizes. The Katmai 65 Plus Size features extended-length straps, a fully adjustable torso length and hipbelt, and places the hipbelt pockets right at the hips where they belong. Gregory states that the two Plus Size offerings accommodate those who typically fit 2X to 6X clothing, and you can read more about their sizing here .

We were happy to see that Gregory chose the Katmai to bring to their plus-size audience, as it’s one of the most comfortable, fully featured, and durable packs in their lineup. Its padded, rotating harness moves with your body over rocky and rooted trails, and the suspended mesh backpanel keeps air flowing on hot days. Top, side, and bottom access to the main compartment make it easy to locate items inside, and a front zippered pocket with a mesh divider is a great place for odds and ends. And while Gregory specifies a 45-pound load limit, our tester found that the Katmai deftly distributed the weight of 50 pounds of gear. Finally, if you’re comparison shopping, it’s also worth checking out the Extended Fit versions of Osprey’s Aether and Ariel , which offer similar sizing and features... Read in-depth review See the Men's Gregory Katmai 65 Plus   See the Women's Gregory Kalmia 60 Plus

Best Budget Backpacking Backpack

6. rei co-op trailmade 60 ($169).

For value seekers or those just dipping their toes into backpacking, REI’s in-house collection is a really nice place to start. The new-for-2023 Trailmade 60 is far from the most premium pack we’ve tested—in fact, it carries the vibe of a 90’s-era hauler—but it certainly gets the job done: We found the suspension to be relatively comfortable on a challenging overnight trip, and organization was good with a roomy main compartment, dedicated sleeping bag storage, and six external pockets. For just $169, the Trailmade 60 is an excellent pick for beginners or those who get out just a few times a year.

What do you give up by choosing REI’s entry-level pack over the pricier options on this list? In short, the fit and finish is what one would expect from a $169 pack—materials are obviously cheap, the shove-it pockets don’t stretch as well as mesh alternatives, and we expect the squishy foam on the hipbelt, shoulder straps, and backpanel to lose its soft feel fairly quickly. Additionally, the one-size-fits-most torso adjustment (two hipbelt sizes are offered that accommodate S to 4XL) results in a less tailored feel compared to packs that are made in multiple sizes. On the other hand, this adjustability makes this pack a great one to share. Summed up, if you’re a new or casual backpacker in the market for a no-frills pack, the REI Trailmade 60 gets our nod as the best budget design of the year. See the Men's REI Co-op Trailmade 60   See the Women's REI Co-op Trailmade 60

Best of the Rest

7. granite gear blaze 60 ($300).

Replacing the well-loved Optic, Gregory’s Focal (and women’s-specific Facet) highlights the brand’s premium ethos in an ultralight package. The pack drops weight with stripped-down features and simple organization, but comfort remains a priority: The body-hugging hipbelt, lightweight aluminum frame, and full mesh backpanel offer significantly more support than the streamlined suspension systems typically found on minimalist packs. You’ll still want to make sure the rest of your gear is appropriately pared down—especially if you’re opting for the 48-liter version—but the good news is there’s no shortage of ultralight tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other UL gear to choose from. 

The Focal goes head-to-head with Osprey’s Exos above, which is the long-standing favorite in this category. Both packs come in 48- and 58-liter versions (the Exos is also available in a 38L option) and check in around the same price (the Exos is $10 more for the 58L). But the Focal is lighter by a few ounces, carries just as well, and features a simpler design that’s a bit easier to pack. The potential hangup, however, is that the Gregory lacks any torso adjustability. This isn’t especially noteworthy compared to ultralight designs—packs like the Hyperlite Southwest also feature fixed torso lengths—but it’s an undeniable shortcoming compared to the Exos. Gripes aside, if the Focal fits (it’s available in three sizes), it’s an excellent option for weight-conscious backpackers looking for a step up from a true UL design... Read in-depth review See the Men's Gregory Focal 58   See the Women's Gregory Facet 55

9. ULA Equipment Circuit 68 ($280)

Utah-based ULA Equipment has gone from a relative unknown to a darling of the PCT and AT in only a few short years. Leading the charge is their 68-liter Circuit, which offers an excellent compromise of weight, durability, and functionality for the thru-hiking crowd and those who keep their loads under 30 pounds. The design is undeniably minimalist but retains good organization with a very large front mesh pocket, zippered hipbelt compartments, and an internal secure stash. We’ve taken the Circuit on multi-day treks in Patagonia and up 14ers in Colorado, and have been impressed with how easy it is to load up, adjust, and even streamline as a day pack when needed.

Although the ULA Circuit doesn’t have that coveted Dyneema distinction, its 210-denier Robic nylon has proven to be very abrasion resistant, and is actually less prone to punctures than the Hyperlite and Zpacks designs (in our experience, Dyneema has a greater tendency to form small holes in between the fibers). What’s more, with a carbon fiber suspension, aluminum stay, and rigid foam backpanel, the Circuit is fully capable of utilizing its generous 68-liter capacity. To top it off, the ULA is offered in an impressive range of sizes, and you can customize the torso length, hipbelt size, and shoulder strap style to meet your needs. If you’re willing to give up the water resistance, slight weight savings, and brand cachet of the Hyperlite, it’s likely you won’t be disappointed with the Circuit—and it’s a great value at just $280. See the ULA Equipment Circuit 68

10. Gregory Paragon 58 ($260)

It doesn’t get much more premium than Gregory’s Baltoro above, but a strong case can be made for a more affordable and lightweight design like the Paragon. At 3 pounds 9 ounces and a reasonable $260, the Paragon 58 is a great option for smaller loads (it comes in 48, 58, and 68-liter versions) and those looking to save. You don’t get the same level of padding or organization as the Baltoro, but the pack offers easy fit adjustments, plenty of mesh along the backpanel to help you stay cool, and a quality feel overall with sturdy zippers and supportive foam. And the Paragon doesn’t skimp on useful extras either, with features like a rain cover, large mesh front pocket, and a bear canister-friendly wide shape.

With an all-rounder design that finds a nice middle ground between stripped-down UL models and heavy comfort-first haulers, the Paragon goes head-to-head with a pack like the Osprey Atmos above. But while the Gregory gets the edge in weight (it’s almost 1 pound less) and price, the Osprey is the better pack when it comes to comfort, exterior storage, and ventilation. Further, the Atmos has a higher end feel and more durable construction with a thicker body fabric (210D x 500D vs. the Paragon’s 100D). One final note: It’s also worth checking out Gregory’s Zulu 65 ($270), which offers top-notch ventilation but (in our experience) comes up short in terms of carrying comfort... Read in-depth review See the Men's Gregory Paragon 58   See the Women's Gregory Maven 55

11. REI Co-op Flash 55 ($199)

REI’s packs are reliably high on value but can be hit or miss in terms of outright performance. The ultralight Flash 55 falls in the former category, featuring a competitively light weight (on par with the Exos and Focal above) and a variety of thoughtful touches, including four large side pockets (great for taller items like a tent or backpacking chair) and a front dump pocket, multiple daisy-chain attachment points, and a convenient roll-top closure. The Flash is also hallmarked by a range of customizable features (REI calls them “Packmod” accessories): Depending on the trip, you can add or remove the compression straps, two hipbelt pockets, and a shoulder strap pocket to shave off up to 7 ounces.

The Flash 55 was updated for 2023, and the most significant improvements include more durable (and recycled) materials and a built-in torso adjustment. The new model comes in four sizes that vary in terms of length and hipbelt circumference, making it fairly accommodating for a range of body shapes and sizes. But while we’ve been very pleased with the Flash’s performance for two- to four-day trips, the aforementioned Exos and Focal do have more thoughtfully built harnesses, which translates to improved ventilation and greater comfort with a heavier load (REI lists the Flash’s weight limit at 15-30 lb. compared to the Osprey and Gregory’s 35 lb.). Their materials also feel like a step up: The Flash’s shoulder straps have a cheap (and noisy) fabric covering, and the front shove-it pocket isn’t as stretchy as we’d like. That said, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better deal among lightweight packs, making the Flash a wonderful option for weight- and budget-conscious backpackers...  Read in-depth review See the Men's REI Co-op Flash 55   See the Women's REI Co-op Flash 55

12. Osprey Aether 65 ($320)

The Atmos AG above is Osprey’s leading backpacking pack, but for heavy hauling and light mountaineering, the Aether offers even more in the way of comfort and features. Updated a couple years ago, the pack dropped the AntiGravity (AG) suspension system for an AirScape backpanel, which is less elaborate but still has breathable foam and mesh to help keep you cool. And you get all kinds of adjustability, including a rip-and-stick system that easily tailors the fit of the shoulder straps and hipbelt, along with ample compression straps and attachment points for ice axes, tent poles, and more. Last but not least, the large J-shaped zipper at the front provides easy access to the main compartment.

The primary downside of the Aether 65 is its weight, which squeezes in just under 5 pounds. On top of that, organization is middling: you only get five external pockets (seven if you’re counting water bottle holders) and the hipbelt stashes are oddly placed and difficult-to-reach. For the majority of backpackers, we think the Atmos is the more practical all-around design 6 ounces less, and the Gregory Baltoro 75 above gets you more capacity at around the same weight (albeit for $40 more). But in terms of premium haulers the Aether has a lot to offer, and those lugging heavy loads will appreciate the durable, sturdy build. Keep in mind that Osprey also makes the beefed-up Aether Plus and stripped-down Aether Pro , which could be great alternatives depending on your needs... Read in-depth review See the Men's Osprey Aether 65   See the Women's Osprey Ariel 65

13. Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 ($285)

The Gossamer Gear Mariposa has long been a favorite of thru-hikers, and for good reason. What sets it apart is how few compromises there are with this 1-pound 15.5-ounce bag (ours is 2 lb. 3 oz. with a large frame and medium hipbelt). You get a total of seven external pockets—more than the Hyperlite or ULA above—which make it easy to distribute and organize your gear. And while brands like Hyperlite and Zpacks use Dyneema to cut weight, the Gossamer Gear’s tough Robic nylon (similar to the ULA’s but thinner) keeps cost in check and does a great job resisting punctures (downside: you’ll have to add your own waterproofing in the form of a pack cover or dry bags inside). Finally, Gossamer Gear offers great customization: the standard pack comes in three sizes, and you can order your hipbelt separately to nail that perfect fit.

Comfort-wise, we’ve found the Mariposa has sufficient padding and plenty of support right up to its 35-pound maximum rating. If we were to change one thing, it would be the backpanel: the removable foam padding is prone to bunching and is such an annoyance that we prefer to leave it behind. We’ve also found that the pack rides low and wide, while a model like the Southwest has a bit more of a torpedo shape—some folks might not like the look as much, but for those carrying a bear canister, it’s a really functional design. There’s no shortage of good competition in the ultralight pack market, but the Gossamer Gear is nevertheless a strong contender, and especially for those who like to stay organized... Read in-depth review See the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60

14. Arc’teryx Bora 65 ($320)

You can always count on Arc’teryx to deviate from the norm, and their Bora 65 is no exception. For starters, the Arc’teryx’s harness and suspension are about as techy as it gets in the backpack world, with features like a rotating track-mounted hipbelt, adjustment grid to customize shoulder strap placement, and lightweight framesheet that’s reminiscent of carbon fiber. The Bora has always been known for its load-carrying prowess (we used to wear a 95L version while guiding mountaineering and wilderness therapy expeditions), and the newest iteration carries the torch despite its more streamlined design. And with a sleek exterior and tough, water-resistant fabrics, it’s better primed for alpine environments than most packs here.

The Bora is similar to our top-ranked Osprey Atmos AG in terms of weight and capacity, but in our opinion it’s not quite as approachable of a backpack. You don’t get the same suspended mesh backpanel that the Osprey is known for, the front dump pocket isn’t stretchy, and both hipbelt pockets use stretch-mesh rather than a zipper closure. We also have mixed feelings about the rotating hipbelt, which can feel squirrely on off-camber terrain and pokes into our hips when carrying a full load. If you’re routinely mixing backpacking and mountaineering, the hardwearing Arc’teryx has its merit (and is $20 less to boot), but most backpackers will be better served with the more convenient and user-friendly Atmos... Read in-depth review See the Men's Arc'teryx Bora 65   See the Women's Arc'teryx Bora 60

15. Deuter Aircontact Core 65 + 10 ($250)

Germany-based Deuter has been pumping out quality packs since the early 1900s, and their current collection holds court with premium offerings from brands like Osprey and Gregory. The Aircontact Core is the brand’s all-rounder, prioritizing comfort and organization for multi-day backpacking trips. Similar to packs like the Osprey Aether and Gregory Baltoro, the Aircontact Core features a thoughtfully built suspension and harness, adjustable torso length, and no shortage of storage, including dual hipbelt and lid pockets and a handy J-shaped zipper on the front. We took the women’s Aircontact Core 60 + 10 SL backpacking in Washington’s Glacier Peak Wilderness, and were very pleased with its comfort and convenience throughout big days on the trail. 

The Deuter is a wonderful value for those who don’t want to fork over $300+ for a backpack, but it doesn’t quite measure up to the aforementioned Osprey and Gregory. The pack checks in at a similar weight as the heavy haulers, but its load limit maxes out at 44 pounds (compared to the competitors’ 55- to 60-lb. limits). Second, the Aircontact Core is only available in one size, which translates to a less tailored feel overall. But if you’re curious about trying something different than the standard fare, the Deuter is well deserving of a closer look, and will save you $70 to $110 in the process... Read in-depth review See the Men's Deuter Aircontact Core   See the Women's Deuter Aircontact Core SL  

16. Granite Gear Crown3 60 ($240)

More than any other model, the 60-liter Crown has put Granite Gear solidly on the ultralight map. Now in its third iteration—fourth if you include the old Vapor Trail—the Crown3 is one of the most affordable yet versatile options available. The pack features a plethora of customizable features, including a variety of removable straps, top lid that doubles as a chest or fanny pack, and roll-top closure for securing loads of varying sizes. Unlike much of the competition, the hipbelt can be adjusted to your exact waist measurement with the Crown’s updated Re-Fit system. And to help you maximize all 60 liters of capacity, Granite Gear also offers the option of adding a lightweight aluminum stay to increase the pack’s load limit to 43 pounds (without the stay, the Crown3 maxes out at 35 lb.).

The recently updated Crown is the most comfortable yet, featuring a compression-molded PE frame sheet and molded foam backpanel. But after testing it on a recent three-day backpacking trip, we have our fair share of gripes. For one, the pack features a very short and squat build, which ends up feeling squirrely when loaded down (the lack of stabilizer straps connecting the hipbelt to the pack doesn’t help). Second, we found the Crown to be almost too featured—we removed a pile of straps (including front water bottle holders and a second sternum strap) before taking it into the field. And finally, it simply lacks the fit and finish of packs from companies like Osprey, Gregory, and Hyperlite, and Granite Gear does not use recycled fabrics or PFC-free DWR. But if you’re looking to save money without compromising on a customizable fit and feature set, the Crown3 is a great value pick... Read in-depth review See the Men's Granite Gear Crown3 60   See the Women's Granite Gear Crown3 60

17. Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L ($399)

Weighing at least half a pound less than the next lightest pack on our list, the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra takes the ultralight crown. The 60-liter model we tested comes in at an amazing 1 pound 5.4 ounces, and you can tack on modular add-ons like shoulder and belt pockets or a water bottle holder to complete your setup. In terms of construction, the Arc Haul Ultra uses a similar water-resistant Dyneema build as the Hyperlite above but in an even more streamlined form (3.3 oz/sqyd vs. the Southwest’s 5.0 oz/sqyd). This does translate to less durability overall (we got a small puncture in the bottom of our pack after putting it down on a particularly rocky section of trail), but Dyneema is simple to patch and the drop in weight will be worth it for serious thru-hikers and ounce-counters.

The “Arc” in the Zpacks’ name comes from a unique tensioning system that pulls the middle of the bag away from the back, encouraging airflow and alleviating the need for a foam backpanel. Breathability is one of Dyneema’s shortcomings, so this is a helpful design for warm weather and those who work up a sweat. Combined with a carbon fiber frame, the pack has a solid structure and provides good support for loads up to about 30 pounds. However, the complex nature of the Arc Haul Ultra does give us durability concerns—especially compared to the simple Hyperlite. The pack’s abundant straps, buckles, stitching, and add-on components could all be points of failure over time. All in all, it may not be durable or comfortable enough for regular weekend backpackers, but if you treat it with care, the Arc Haul Ultra is an excellent option for serious hikers and minimalist trekkers. See the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L   See the Women's Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L

18. Mystery Ranch Glacier ($375)

Mystery Ranch is relatively new to the backpacking scene, but the brand can trace the roots of its founder, Dana Gleason, to the legendary Dana Designs packs of the 1990s. From the current lineup, we prefer the heavy-hauling Glacier, which is built to handle rough, expedition-level use and comes loaded with creative design touches. In particular, the floating lid is one of our favorites with its two massive pockets and easy conversion into a functional daypack. And we love the Glacier’s build quality overall—everything from the foam to the zippers has a premium, long-lasting feel.

One of the Glacier’s main competitors is the Osprey Aether above. Both packs offer excellent carrying comfort, durability, and most of the bells and whistles you could want in a deluxe hauler. However, two useful items missing on the Glacier are hipbelt pockets and a large mesh shove-it pocket on the back. The Aether also has better back ventilation, although it can't match the material quality or toughness of the Glacier. Finally, given its impressive hauling abilities, we’d like to see a larger-capacity version from Mystery Ranch. But if those nitpicks aren’t deal breakers for you, the Glacier is a wonderfully built pack that’s made to last. See the Men's Mystery Ranch Glacier   See the Women's Mystery Ranch Glacier

  19. REI Co-op Traverse 60 ($229)

A couple years ago, REI gave their large-capacity Traverse pack a complete revamp. The latest version has a number of thoughtful features, including a top lid that converts into a day pack (it disconnects from the main bag extremely quickly), large and easy-to-access zippered hipbelt pockets, and an included rain cover. REI’s Packmod compression straps and daisy chain system allow you to customize your external organization, and the pack also includes dedicated attachments for trekking poles and ice axes. Finally, the Traverse 60 drops 10 ounces off the previous 70-liter version but retains great durability, with burly 300-denier recycled ripstop nylon throughout.

But unfortunately, that’s all the praise we have for the Traverse, which feels like a step back from the previous generation. Despite REI’s move to sustainable, bluesign-approved materials, the pack has a surprisingly budget feel: there’s no front access to the main compartment (the older model had a large, J-shaped zipper), and the raised foam padding on the backpanel feels like a true throwback to packs of yesteryear. The result is less ventilation than more modern designs and compromised carrying comfort (unlike the Baltoro or Aether above, this is not the kind of pack you want to overload). Added up, the Traverse 60 is a fairly disappointing update to a much-loved pack, and for $229 we don’t think it’s worth the savings... Read in-depth review See the Men's REI Co-op Traverse 60   See the Women's REI Co-op Traverse 60

Backpacking Backpack Comparison Table

Backpacking backpack buying advice, recommended capacity, backpack load range.

• Ultralight Backpacking Packs

Backpack Durability

Padding and support.

• Main Compartment Access
• Water Reservoir Compatibility

Ventilation

Water protection, backpack sizing and fit.

• Sustainability

Rules about how big of a pack you need are not hard and fast. Multiple factors come in to play such as how many nights your trips will be, what time(s) of year you go backpacking, and if you ever plan to tack on any additional activities (e.g. packrafting or mountaineering). One point should stand out, however: Make sure to match your pack's capacity to the type of gear you'll be bringing. Do you have dated or entry-level backpacking equipment that doesn't compress well, or do you like to bring along a few extras? Then make sure to get a correspondingly cavernous pack. Alternatively, if you've dialed in your kit with lightweight and modern gear, you'll have more flexibility in size options.

The majority of backpackers take short trips—usually around one to three nights—and for those uses, a pack in the 50 to 70 liter range is most popular. With a design like the Osprey Atmos AG 50 / Aura AG 50 , you’ll need to keep your packed weight low, stick to the essentials, and be sure to use the aforementioned compressible gear. While at 60 liters and more, you have enough space to take on a few additional items—great for parents with kids in tow. Within each of the ranges we have listed below, you can follow those general guidelines: minimalist to bulky (or a lot of) gear.

Overnight and/or ultralight gear: 35 to 55 liters Long weekend (2-3 nights): 50 to 70 liters Extended trips (over 3 days): 60+ liters

Looking beyond how much space your gear takes up in a pack, it’s also important to ballpark the total weight. Backpackers often refer to the weight of their gear (minus consumables) as their base weight: Base weights range from 8 or less pounds at the low end to over 20 pounds at the high end. Tack on food, water, and fuel, and you’re looking at anything between 15 and 50 pounds on your back—or more if you’re not careful. We’re big fans of doing whatever we can to keep our gear (and food) light, as this generally correlates to more enjoyment on the trail.

Most manufacturers list a load limit or range for their packs—on our list, these vary from 15-30 pounds for the REI Co-op Flash 55 to 60 pounds for the Osprey Aether 65. There are a lot of factors that contribute to a pack’s load limit, including the materials and construction of its frame, suspension, and padding. If you don’t see a specified load limit, an easy reference point is the pack’s empty weight—as we'll touch on more below, a heavier pack is logically most often capable of hauling more weight, thanks to its beefy frame, tough fabrics, and thick padding. In our opinion, load limits are more of a command than a suggestion: It’s our experience that going over a pack’s specified load limit results in a noticeable drop in comfort.

Backpack Weight

The backpacks on our list above range from 1 pound 5.4 ounces for the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L to 6 pounds 6 ounces for the Mystery Ranch Glacier 70. Backpack weight is a bit of a mixed bag: On one hand, a heavier pack will add multiple pounds to your back; on the other, these packs generally have robust suspension systems and harnesses that offer an increase in comfort and load distribution compared to more minimalist designs. We’ve found that packs roughly in the 2.5- to 4.5-pound range—such as the Osprey Atmos AG 65 (4 lb. 9.8 oz.) and Gregory Focal 55 (2 lb. 10.4 oz.)—strike a really nice balance of weight and performance for loads up to about 35 pounds. If you anticipate a heavier load, it’s worth considering a heavier pack.

Ultralight Backpacking Packs Weight is so important to many backpackers that a whole category of backpack exists based on this spec alone. Ultralight backpacks cut roughly 2 to 3 pounds off the weight of a standard backpacking pack and feature bare-bones organization (the majority have one main compartment, hipbelt pockets, and a few external dump pockets). Additionally, they shed pounds with thin yet premium materials (Dyneema and Robic nylon are common) and simple suspension systems that generally include only an aluminum stay and foam backpanel. As a result, ultralight backpacks do compromise on comfort, especially when your load heads north of 30 pounds. But for ounce-counters who prioritize a lightweight load, the difference between a traditional and ultralight backpacking pack can be significant (for a deep-dive into this category, see our article on the best ultralight backpacks ).

Of course, the main downside to thicker fabric is added weight. As a result, many lightweight and ultralight backpacks sacrifice a bit of durability with relatively thin builds. To maintain the best of both worlds, premium UL backpacks will often feature Dyneema, which is known for its impressive strength-to-weight ratio (and is also very expensive). But while it's worth being aware of a pack's fabric weight and composition, thin fabrics shouldn't necessarily be a deterrent, unless you're incredibly hard on your gear, love to bushwack, or wear a backpack for work (as in the case of guides or trail crew). We've been pleasantly surprised with the durability of packs like the Gregory Focal (100D & 210D) and Osprey Exos (100D & 400D), and consider them to be sufficiently durable for most users.

All overnight packs feature foam padding in their shoulder straps and hipbelt (and sometimes backpanel), which can vary in terms of thickness and quality. The goal of the padding is to increase comfort, spread out the load, and isolate your body from the sharp contours of the pack or straps. Foam and the fabric that covers it do add ounces, so manufacturers are always trying to find the right balance of weight and comfort. In general, heavier packs offer more padding (and thus more comfort), while lighter and ultralight packs feature streamlined padding (and thus less comfort, especially with a heavy load).

We prefer foam that errs towards firm support rather than being soft and compressible. Excessively soft padding might feel great when first trying on a pack, but it doesn’t offer the long-term support needed for hauling heavier loads. Packs like the Gregory Baltoro / Deva and Osprey Aether/Ariel are great examples of effective use of this type of high quality, firm padding. On the other hand, many modern designs (like the Osprey Atmos or Exos) swap out some padding in lieu of suspended mesh, which achieves a similar effect with less weight (and more ventilation). We were at first skeptical of the suspended mesh design, but after many years of testing various iterations, we’re full converts. With loads under 40 pounds, these airy backpanels offer just as much comfort as the padded competition.  

Backpack Organizational Features

When you’re playing the part of a moving van, carrying all your possessions in one place, organization is of utmost importance. As expected, storage options increase with a pack’s weight. Ultralight packs often feature just one cavernous compartment and a number of external pockets, while luxury designs offer a dedicated sleeping bag compartment, multiple access points to the main compartment, a lid, and a few external zip pockets. That said, more isn’t always better: How much organization you need ultimately comes down to a matter of personal preference.

Exterior Pockets In our comparison table above, we list the number of external pockets for each pack. Most designs feature at least five—three dump pockets and two hipbelt pockets—while many high-end packs tack on a few more. Hipbelt pockets are indispensable for quick access to items like lip balm, a phone, or Lifesavers (a great energy boost on the trail). We’ll almost always keep a layer or two in the front dump pocket, and side dump pockets are ideal for items like water bottles or trekking poles . Finally, most packs also feature a top lid with one or two zippered pockets—this is a great place to store small items like a headlamp or trail snacks, and can be removed for toting essentials around camp. But before you go pocket-crazy, just remember that sometimes, less is more: five to six pockets is just right for us, while nine can be a recipe for misplacing your gear.

Main Compartment Access Nearly every backpacking pack out there will have an opening at the top that is secured in a cinch cord or roll-top manner, referred to as a top-loader. Additional access to the bottom or middle of the pack via a side zip(s) or U-shaped opening can be a big help, keeping you from having to shovel through a once-meticulously organized pack to find some elusive item. These extra zippers add a little weight, but are often worth it. In cases like the Gregory Baltoro/Deva or Osprey Aether / Ariel , the U-shaped opening is so wide that you can pack and remove items much like a travel suitcase.

Water Reservoir (Bladder) Compatibility Water reservoirs have become our (and most hikers') preferred way of staying hydrated on the trail, thanks to their on-the-go convenience. As a result, the vast majority of backpacking backpacks offer a number of features to accommodate reservoirs. Look for either a dedicated sleeve or clip from which to hang the reservoir, in addition to an exit port for the tube and straps or clips to secure the tube to the shoulder strap. It is worth noting that you'll want to pack your hydration bladder first before loading the rest of your gear into your pack, so that it can hang freely along the length of the backpanel. But don't fret: If you're anything like us and forget about it until your pack is fully packed, you can always rest it on top of your gear. To keep it from sloshing, invert it first and suck all of the air out of the reservoir.

Compression Straps Compression straps tighten a pack from front to back and pull the load close to your body, helping to keep you balanced on the trail. Make sure the pack you’re looking at has these side compression straps at both the top and bottom to aid in load stability, and give them a good cinch each time you put your pack on. These straps are also useful for storing taller items (such as tent poles) along the side of your pack. When used for this purpose we especially like a system like REI's Packmod—seen on the Traverse 60 and Flash 55 packs—which allows you to move the straps to your preferred height via a series of daisy chains (or remove them altogether). And while some compression straps secure tight with a simple plastic cinch, we prefer those with buckles for their ease of use, especially when attaching larger items like a sleeping pad.

Backpanel and hipbelt ventilation is a biggie for some, especially if you tend to run warm or plan on hiking in the heat of the summer. But finding an internal framed pack that breathes well can be a challenge, primarily because the point of a pack is to hug and conform to your body, moving with you as you walk. Most packs have offsetting foam and mesh panels that do a passible job encouraging airflow, but you’ll likely still get sweat art on your back that traces where the foam panels contact your body. On the other hand, designs such as Osprey’s Anti-Gravity (seen on the Atmos/Aura) or Gregory’s FreeFloat (on the Focal / Facet , for example) feature a fully suspended mesh backpanel and hipbelt that cradle the body while still allowing for great airflow. For the most part we love this design and recommend it for those who want to prioritize ventilation, but it does cut a bit into the main compartment’s capacity and won’t hold up to especially heavy loads.

Many items that we store in our backpacks are vulnerable to moisture—including a camera, phone, and down sleeping bag—so we place a high priority on water protection. The good news is that most backpacks offer decent water resistance with hard-face nylon and a durable water repellant (DWR) coating, although expect sustained rainfall to penetrate the fabric. There are also a number of waterproof backpacks on the market, including those made with Dyneema. In fact, we’ve used the 100% Dyneema Hyperlite Windrider as a dry bag (see our in-depth review ) and it didn’t let us down.

If you don’t have a waterproof backpack (chances are you won’t), it’s a good idea take a few extra precautions to make sure your gear stays dry. Some packs include a built-in waterproof cover that stows away inside the pack (the Gregory Baltoro/Deva, REI Traverse, and Gregory Paragon/Maven, for example). You can also purchase one separately— REI Co-op's Duck's Back Raincover gets the job done—but keep in mind that they aren’t foolproof and can be hard to trust in windy conditions. Another strategy is to protect items from the inside, either by lining the entire pack body with a waterproof bag or using an assortment waterproof stuff sacks or dry bags. You can even make do with garbage bags: when guiding in British Columbia’s wet costal range, we used a trash compactor bag to line our backpack and always had dry gear.

One of the most important factors to enjoyment on the trail comes in sizing and fitting your pack correctly. Packs generally come in a men’s and women’s version (for a full look at the women's market, see our article on the best women's backpacking backpacks ) and are offered in one to three sizes. These sizes vary most in terms of torso and hip measurements, and are most often differentiated by their torso length. Hipbelts are generally very adjustable, but if your hip measurement is not proportional to your torso, it might be a good idea to opt for a pack with a customizable hipbelt. And once you dial in your size, there is still a lot of potential for adjustment, both before you put your pack on and once it’s loaded. In most cases, you can tweak the torso length by a good margin, and the majority of packs allow you to adjust the height of the hipbelt too. 

Importantly, some brands have also started to offer their most popular backpacks in plus sizes. Gregory led the charge with their men’s Katmai 65 and women’s Kalmia 60, and Osprey followed with their Aether and Ariel Extended Fit. These packs don’t just increase dimensions; rather, they’re thoughtfully built with a wider distance between shoulder straps, well-placed hipbelt pockets, and lots of room for adjustment throughout (read more about Osprey’s Extended Fit collection and Gregory’s Plus Sizing ). The options are still limited, but we look forward to seeing more plus-size backpacks in the not-so-distant future.

Sustainability: Recycled Fabrics and PFC-Free DWR

Our impact on the environment has never been of greater concern, and it’s nice to see gear companies step it up with more sustainable practices. The use of recycled fabrics has grown substantially in the past few years, with companies like Osprey , Gregory, and Deuter prioritizing these materials. We're also seeing a lot more PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finishes on backpacks, which eliminate the use of some—or at times, all—per- or polyfluorinated chemicals (these “forever chemicals” have been linked to a range of environmental and health issues). With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (you can read more about Patagonia’s take on the issue here). All told, it’s an exciting time for sustainability, we’re happy to see this reflected in the backpacking pack market. Back to Our Top Backpacking Pack Picks   Back to Our Backpacking Pack Comparison Table

Learn More About Outdoor Gear

Backpacking Gear Reviews

Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpack Review

Gregory Baltoro 75 Backpack Review

Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2024

Backpack Fit and Sizing Guide

Best Backpacking Tents of 2024

Granite Gear Crown3 60 Backpack Review

Osprey Eja 58 Backpack Review

Backpacking Checklist for 2023

Mobile Menu

Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.

• Hiking Gear
• Backpacking Gear
• Biking Gear
• Camping Gear
• Footwear Reviews
• Climbing Gear
• Skiing Gear
• Winter Gear Reviews
• In-Depth Gear Reviews
• Hiking Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Trail Running Shoes
• Mountain Bike Shoes
• Approach Shoes
• Climbing Shoes
• Beginner Climbing Shoes
• Mountaineering Boots
• Winter Boots
• Rain Jackets
• Down Jackets
• Synthetic Jackets
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Windbreaker Jackets
• Ski Jackets
• Winter Jackets
• Hiking Pants
• Hiking Socks
• Trekking Poles
• Baby Carriers
• Running Vests
• Backpacking Tents
• Backpacking Packs
• Backpacking Sleeping Bags
• Backpacking Sleeping Pads
• Backpacking Stoves
• Backpacking Food
• Water Filters
• Altimeter Watches
• Handheld GPS
• Mountain Bike Helmets
• Mountain Bikes
• Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
• Mountain Bikes Under $2,000
• Gravel Bikes
• Bike Brands
• Kids' Bikes
• Hitch Bike Racks
• Camping Tents
• Rooftop Tents
• Camping Sleeping Bags
• Camping Mattresses
• Camping Chairs
• Camping Stoves
• Duffel Bags
• Rock Climbing Shoes
• Climbing Helmets
• Climbing Harnesses
• Climbing Quickdraws
• Belay Devices
• Climbing Ropes
• Climbing Backpacks
• Winter Gloves
• 4-Season Tents
• Ski Helmets
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Backpacks
• All-Mountain Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Backcountry Skis
• Backcountry Ski Boots
• Skis for Beginners
• Hardpack Skis
• Mirrorless Cameras
• Full-Frame Cameras
• DSLR Cameras
• Point-and-Shoot Cameras
• Travel Cameras
• DSLR Lenses
• Mirrorless Lenses
• Lofoten Islands
• Lofoten Hiking
• Hardangervidda
• Jotunheimen
• 10 Great Norway Hikes
• Public Huts
• Torres del Paine
• Chalten and Glaciares
• Lake District
• Patagonia National Park
• Milford Sound
• Abel Tasman
• Marlborough
• Great Walks
• Adventure Towns

Add adventure to your inbox

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

© 2024 Switchback Travel. All Rights Reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

• Backchannel
• Newsletters
• WIRED Insider
• WIRED Consulting

Adrienne So Gear Team

The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On Away Carry-On Read more

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

Best Bag for a Lifetime Briggs & Riley Baseline CX Read more

Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Carry-On for Most People

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Bag for a Lifetime

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright.

The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

Medea Giordano

Louryn Strampe

Best Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon with bombproof YKK zippers and has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both and I would only fly with if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Best Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: If you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $160 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $345 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 keep everything inside your bags organized by allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

Nena Farrell

Matt Jancer

Scott Gilbertson

Julian Chokkattu

WIRED COUPONS

Extra 20% off sitewide - Dyson promo code

GoPro Promo Code: 15% off Cameras and Accessories

Up to +30% Off with your Samsung student promo code

10% Off Everything w/ Dell Promo Code

VistaPrint Promo Code: $10 Off $50+

50% off Select Products - Newegg Promo Code

Are you human?

Something made us think you are a bot, but don’t worry. Just press on the button below and we’ll get you back to your journey.

You might have received this message if JavaScript or cookies were disabled in your browser settings. Occasionally a plugin or extension may be at fault. If you would like to learn more, just reference Why Was I Blocked for more details.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 15 Best Travel Tote Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Totes from Away, MZ Wallace, and Quince came highly recommended by T+L editors and travel experts.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Other Totes 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 / Jessica Juliao

While many travelers opt for a backpack as a trusted travel companion, we think tote bags offer similar (if not better) features for certain travelers. Tote bags are convenient for quickly accessing items like a phone or wallet since your belongings are kept closer to the body. 

It’s important to invest in a tote bag (or any piece of luggage for that matter) that fits your needs as a traveler. There are tons of different bag styles out there, so we pulled recommendations and notes from seasoned travelers and Travel + Leisure editors to crowdsource the best tote bag options from travel experts. Plenty of packable, convertible, weekender, and leather tote bags came highly recommended, and we highlighted why each bag earned praise so you can make the most informed decision whether you’re a frequent flier, road tripper, or office commuter.

Best Overall

Mz wallace deluxe tote.

The large storage capacity and efficient organization make it an excellent personal item for flying.

The laptop pocket isn’t padded.

This quilted MZ Wallace tote bag earned major points for having a spacious capacity without feeling bulky or weighted down when it’s packed full. An ideal bag for air travel, it can fit carry-on essentials while still being able to fit underneath an airplane seat, and the zippered top keeps everything safe and sound. There are tons of pockets for storing items, including a 13-inch laptop pocket (unpadded) and five other smaller pockets for lip balm, phone chargers, and wallets. Although we found this tote bag to be exceptionally lightweight, it boasts a trolley sleeve to secure the bag to a suitcase to give your shoulder a rest when needed. It also comes with a detachable shoulder strap to carry the bag as a crossbody when desired. 

This bag came highly recommended after thorough testing and the only slight inconvenience we ran into is that the tote is unstructured so if there isn’t a laptop in it, the items sag at the bottom. However, the variety of pockets help to distribute the weight, so we still think this bag is the ultimate travel companion for storing the essentials. 

The Details: 11.6 x 9.4 x 12.7 inches | Nylon, leather | Trolley sleeve | 13-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Overall, Runner-up

Quince revive nylon large tote.

It conveniently folds up for packing and is impressively lightweight.

There isn’t a top zipper. 

The Quince Revive Nylon tote bag was praised by our experts for its lightweight material and portable design for traveling. The bag is made with durable nylon, it never feels cumbersome to carry, and the fabric design makes it easy to fold up the bag to place it in a carry-on or backpack without taking up much space. With designated pockets for a laptop, water bottle, and smaller items, we love that there is a spot for both everyday and travel essentials for supreme versatility. If the tote gets dirty while traveling, you can spot-clean the nylon fabric with soap and water, and it comes in Oxford blue, olive, and black color options that easily hide wear and tear over the years. Because the tote bag doesn’t have a top zipper, it scored slightly lower than our top pick, but we still think the flexible fabric and slim design of the tote helps keep it close to your body while walking through a crowded airport or down busy streets.

The Details: 17 x 13 x 7 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Open-top Canvas

L.l.bean boat and tote bag.

It can accommodate bulky items thanks to the wide-mouth opening.

It doesn’t have any organizational features, so you’ll want to use packing cubes or pouches.

Beach days, picnics, and road trips are the best uses for this spacious canvas tote from L.L. Bean. Made from heavyweight cotton canvas, the tote was originally designed to carry ice from a car to an ice chest back in 1944, and it still boasts the brand’s impressive 500-pound weight capacity (though we hope your travel essentials will never weigh that much). While we’d normally be wary of a travel bag without any pockets, the bag has a generous capacity, which makes it ideal for blankets, lunch boxes, shoes, or any other bulkier item needed for a day or road trip. And when it comes to durability, you can’t beat a tote bag constructed with enough reinforcement to carry over a dozen cinder blocks.

The Details: 13  x 12 x 6 inches | Cotton canvas

Best Machine-washable

Baggu duck bag.

The cotton is machine-washable, and it comes with a crossbody strap.

The top has a magnetic button closure.

Traveling can be hard on luggage, so we love that you can toss the Baggu Duck Bag in a washing machine to prolong the life of the tote. It came highly recommended after one of our team members spilled an entire burrito inside, and all it took was one rinse cycle to get it looking good as new. The canvas material is made with 65 percent recycled cotton from pre-consumer waste like old socks or T-shirts. In addition to the tote handles, the bag also comes with an adjustable crossbody strap to carry the bag over the shoulder. It has enough room to carry a laptop up to 15 inches long, and there is a small zippered pocket on the inside for a wallet or earbuds. One thing to note is that the top has a magnetic button closure instead of a zipper. 

The Details: 15.75 x 11 x 4.75 inches | Recycled cotton canvas

Best Open-top Leather

Milaner woven handbag.

It’s big enough to be an overnight bag if needed. 

There isn’t a laptop pocket.

This woven Milaner leather tote bag is the ultimate tote bag for flying, commuting, or an overnight trip. The larger size can accommodate bulky items like clothing, shoes, or a laptop, and there are two small zippered pockets for wallets and phone chargers. Thanks to the structured design of the woven Nappa, suede, or Vachetta leather, this bag is super easy to pack with travel essentials without feeling cumbersome to carry. It doesn’t have a top zipper, but it does feature a slim shape so the bag is kept close to the body. We also recommend using the dust bag it comes with when placing the bag under an airplane seat to keep the contents from spilling out or getting the bag dirty from the airplane carpet.

The Details: 20 x 14 x 3 inches | Nappa leather

Best Sustainable

Béis east to west tote.

It’s made with 100 percent recycled material. 

It only comes in two colors, and the white could get dirty quickly.

We’re big supporters of eco-friendly luggage that is still just as durable as this tote bag from T+L-loved brand, Béis. Made with 100 percent recycled polyester and recycled faux leather trim, the bag comes in simple black and white shades. There is a padded laptop pocket for laptops up to 15 inches long, two water bottle pockets, two slip pockets, and one zippered pocket so there’s a spot for everyday and travel essentials. Other helpful features for travelers include a trolley sleeve for carrying it on a suitcase, a key leash so you won’t have to dig around to unlock the door (plus you can attach an AirTag holder to it), and a zippered pocket in front. We can’t forget to mention the two lengths of tote handles and a detachable crossbody strap. 

The Details: 17.13 x 14.17 x 9.06 inches | Recycled polyester, vegan leather | 15-inch padded laptop pocket | Luggage sleeve

Best Lightweight

Longchamp tote bag.

It folds into a fraction of the original size for superior packability.

The leather straps aren’t padded.

This lightweight tote bag is ideal for both maximalist and minimalist packers since it folds into itself and can easily be stored in a larger bag without taking up valuable space. Despite the featherlight design, the bag is made with a hardy recycled polyamide canvas that can withstand the test of time. Besides the excellent portability, we love that the tote bag has a zippered top  with a large leather flap that closes over the zipper to give peace of mind that items are safely tucked away while traveling. There’s only one small zippered pocket inside the bag, which could be a slight drawback for some, but we think the packable design is well worth the lack of pockets. The bag comes in seven colors ranging from neutrals hues to bolder tones, and the leather straps, though unpadded, give the bag a chic look to complement any outfit. 

The Details: 12.2 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches | Recycled polyamide canvas, leather | Packable

Best Convertible

Caraa studio tote.

It has a convenient modular design to carry the bag as a tote or backpack.

The exterior shoe pocket can only accommodate smaller shoes.

Can’t decide between a tote or backpack? This Caraa Studio tote bag has a two-in-one design to carry it as either, offering the best of both worlds. With detachable shoulder straps, the leather tote bag can be converted to a backpack in seconds or carried over one shoulder if you’re in crowded areas like a subway or sidewalk and want to keep the bag close. Best of all, there is tons of built in storage to stay naturally organized while traveling. Our favorite features include the 17-inch laptop pocket and shoe compartment on the side of the bag to separate footwear from the rest of the main compartment. Although the pocket can only hold smaller shoes, it can be a game-changer for certain travelers. And there are eight other pockets built into the interior anti-microbial lining to store phone chargers, wallets, passports, and more when you’re en route to a destination.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7.5 inches | Italian leather | 17-inch laptop pocket

Most Durable

Carhartt legacy east/west tote.

This bag is made to last with a sturdy design and hardy fabrics.

The ends of the zippers don’t connect to the fabric, so small items could escape.

Camping, ski trips, beach days, and other outdoor activities can sometimes speed up the wear and tear on a tote, but that’s not the case with Carhartt’s Legacy East West Tote. We’re confident this bag is built to last due to the heavy duty 600 denier polyester and DWR coating to keep the elements from seeping into the tote. After four years of our constant use while traveling and commuting, the tote earned high praise for not showing any signs of letting up on quality anytime soon. With a zipper top and several slip pockets on the interior and exterior, there are spots to store a phone, keys, and wallets safely in the bag. There are gaps on each end of the bag because the ends of the zipper aren’t sewn to the fabric, so watch out for smaller items in the bag since they could fall out. 

The Details: 16.5 x 13.5 x 7.25 inches | Polyester | Water resistant

Best for the Beach

Carve designs treasure tote bag.

Carve Designs

It's the perfect size to fit everything you need for a beach day (including small towel.)

We wish it had some small pockets for storing accessories.

Whether you’re en route to the beach on foot or airplane, this tote bag is specifically designed for tropical vacations. While this tote is essentially one large pocket (without smaller areas to store accessories or essentials), it's the perfect size to take with you to the beach and to lunch afterward without lugging too much around. It's stylish enough that light packers may even use this as their main vacation purse and, paired with the matching treasure clutch , everything you need will be kept organized and ready to go. We love the white cloud texture of the outer materials paired with the stylish brown straps that are both comfortable and durable.

The Details: 14.5 x 15 inches | Cotton

Best for the Office

Bandolier tote bag.

It has various pockets for a laptop, sunglasses, and a water bottle.

The tote straps could be more comfortable. 

A day in the office is like a mini trip, so it’s important to be organized and have plenty of space for items when you’re away from home. The Bandolier tote bag offers a spot to pack office essentials like a laptop, a water bottle, a phone charger, snacks, a wallet, and more. The laptop pocket can fit technology up to 15 inches wide, and there is a leather sunglasses sleeve to protect fragile eyewear en route to the office. There are several other zippered and slip pockets to organize smaller items or a water bottle, and the D-ring loop on the tote handle is designed to hold other Bandolier accessories like a keychain or earbud pouch. The entire bag is made with a sleek pebbled leather, including the leather tote straps, which could be more comfortable with padding. It also comes in black, brown, and gray colorways. 

The Details: 18 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather | 15-inch laptop pocket | Sunglasses pocket

Best With Shoe Compartment

Minkars weekender bag.

The bag comes with a separate shoe compartment, toiletry case, USB port, laptop pocket, and plenty of other thoughtful features for travelers.

It can get heavy when packed full.

A dupe of the iconic Béis weekender bag, this wallet-friendly version has similar features for a fraction of the price. While it’s jam-packed with helpful features for travelers, it received the highest praise for the separate compartment at the bottom of the bag that can store shoes, toiletry cases, hair tools, or any other item you want to keep separate from the main compartment. The structured bag has a wide-mouth opening and is super easy to pack thanks to the 15.6-inch laptop pocket, included toiletry case, and various other pockets for staying organized. Plus, the weekender comes with convertible straps to carry it as a tote or crossbody bag as needed, and it comes in pink, black, or cream color options.

The Details: 17 x 16.5 x 8 inches | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | Shoe compartment | Toiletry bag includes | Trolley sleeve

Best Multi-use

Dakine verge weekender tote.

It’s useful for the outdoors or traveling.

It might get heavy when it’s packed full.

This spacious tote bag from Dakine is equipped for everything from camping and beach days to trips to the office and air travel. When it comes to traveling, the bag features a padded laptop sleeve for devices up to 16 inches; a handy trolley sleeve; and a separate zippered compartment in the bottom of the bag to organize items like shoes, toiletry cases, or clothing as desired. Made with durable recycled nylon and polyester, the tote looks rugged and works well as a weekender bag for camping or for packing beach day essentials like towels and snacks. Travelers can carry the bag as a tote with the top handles or it also comes with a detachable crossbody strap.

The Details: 23.5 x 16 x 11 inches | Recycled nylon | 16-inch padded laptop pocket | Trolley sleeve

Best Organization

Troubadour carrier tote.

Troubadour 

It has tons of pockets to stay naturally organized while traveling.

The bag might be too large to fit underneath an airplane seat. 

Minimalist and practical, Troubadour’s Carrier Tote is our favorite bag for packing efficiently and staying organized on the go. The designated laptop pocket is padded and can fit devices up to 17 inches in width — the largest pocket size for laptops of all the bags recommended. In addition to the protective laptop pocket, the tote features a quick-access phone pocket; a medium-size zippered pocket for an e-reader; and several other slip pockets for items that can easily get lost at the bottom of a bag like charging cords, lip balm, and keys. The only possible downside to this sleek bag is that the 24-liter capacity and stiffer fabric makes it difficult to fit it underneath an airplane seat. 

The Details: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | Recycled polyester, vegan leather | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Foldable

Away the packable carryall.

It’s a very spacious tote that comes with a stuff sack to pack it away in a backpack or suitcase.

It has a flimsy shape, so small or heavy items fall to the bottom of the bag easily.

Away’s The Packable Carryall is the perfect packable tote bag to toss in a purse whether running errands or sightseeing in a city. The tote bag is incredibly spacious when it’s folded open, but it compresses down to a mere fraction of its usual size thanks to the lightweight recycled nylon material and stuff sack. Sometimes packable bags can lack travel-friendly features, so we love that the bag features a zippered top for security; a trolley sleeve for portability; and an interior zippered pocket for storing phones, wallets, and keys while on the go. To keep track of the stuff sack, there’s also a loop to secure the zippered pouch on the inside of the tote. The unstructured design of the tote means that small or heavy items with a pool at the bottom of the bag, but beach towels , jackets, or any bulkier items will fit perfectly and provide some structure to the bag. 

The Details: 19.7 x 15 x 9 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | Trolley sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Other Travel Tote Bags We Liked

The tote bags below still came highly recommended for travelers, but didn’t quite make our list of winners. 

Portland Leather Tote Bag : It’s a very portable tote bag due to the smaller size, but it isn’t the most practical for long trips with less storage and organizational features.

Bellroy Tokyo Tote : This bag has tons of pockets and storage for just about anything you would need while traveling, but it’s on the smaller side, so it could fill up quickly. 

Ogio Rise Tote : The bag can be converted from a tote to a backpack, which can be helpful for travelers, but the drawstring opening is a slight drawback for security reasons.

To create this list of the best travel totes, T+L editors and trusted travel experts recommended their favorite bags they have tested on their own travel adventures. With over 30 totes tested, we whittled down our list of the best bags for any and all travelers based on capacity, portability, ease of use, and overall value. From sleek leather totes to convertible weekender bags, we handpicked various bags that we can’t recommend enough for outdoor activities, air travel, or commuting to the office. 

Tips for Buying a Travel Tote

Buy for your intended activity.

Not all tote bags are best for certain types of travel, so it’s important to invest in a bag that meets your needs. Traveling somewhere wet and rainy? You’ll want to opt for a more rugged tote bag that features waterproof or resistant materials like nylon or polyester for protecting items. Leather tote bags work well for air travel or office days, but you’ll likely want to skip bringing it to the beach or for camping where a canvas tote will hold up much better to wear and tear.

Consider organization and size requirements

When it comes to traveling by air, you’ll want to look at dimensions, organization, and other helpful features like trolley sleeves, USB ports, and convertible straps. For outdoor activities like camping and beach days, a spacious and flexible tote bag can be helpful for packing bulky items. We recommend packable or foldable tote bags for travelers looking for a backup bag to keep in a purse or suitcase, rather than using it as a bag to commute or fly with since they can lack structure and organizational features.

Prioritize comfort

Tote bags can be hard on the shoulders and hands when carried for long periods of time (i.e., navigating an airport or while out and about), so we recommend looking for lightweight materials and padded straps to reduce the possible strain. Some tote bags come with convertible straps to carry the tote as a crossbody or backpack, so be sure to look for bags with modular designs or trolley sleeves to place the bag on a suitcase if you’re looking for better portability and versatility in a tote. 

While it depends on the size of a tote bag, more often than not, it will count as a personal item or possibly a carry-on bag if it’s large enough. A personal item usually has to fit underneath an airplane seat and if it doesn’t, it could qualify as a carry-on bag, so you’ll want to double-check the size restrictions of personal items for your specific airline since it varies greatly depending on the carrier. 

Tote bags offer the ability to quickly and conveniently access items like a phone and wallet since the bag is kept closer to the front of your body compared to a backpack. Backpacks distribute the weight of your belongings better, but a comfortable tote bag should never be too cumbersome to carry. Look for features like padded handles or a convertible crossbody strap for comfort. Tote bags are also easier to take on and off while traveling, which is convenient when you’re on the go and maneuvering tight places such as airplanes, trains, and cars. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna combed through recommendations from over 30 tote bag survey submissions from travel experts and used her knowledge as an expert product tester to put together this list of the best travel tote bags. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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

The Beis Travel Tote, from Shay Mitchell's baggage line, can conveniently slot into place atop a suitcase with its trolley sleeve, but can also be carried on its own with a detachable shoulder strap, and top handles designed to rest comfortably on your shoulder. This bag boasts a bottom zip shoe compartment, padded tech sleeve and multiple exterior and interior pockets. 

Calpak Luka Backpack

With multiple storage compartments including a separate laptop sleeve and a space to store your shoes that has its own exterior access, this lightweight Luka backpack will help you stay organized on the go.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

This travel backpack comes with a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system and a 35L capacity, making it suitable for carry-on use. It is designed with a full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment, along with large and subdivided zippered mesh compartments on the sides, providing convenient packing options. Additionally, its attractive design ensures you can easily identify your bag wherever you go.

Troubadour Featherweight Tote

A modern classic and easy-access bag. This Featherweight Tote features a light and waterproof fabric with vegan leather handles, and is perfect for gym trips or a day out!

Dagne Dover Jemi Puff Tote

Whether you're traveling to work or a weekend getaway, this lightweight tote is perfect with pockets for days to keep all your belongings organized. 

The Best Weekender Bags for 2024 

Lululemon go getter bag 2.0.

This sleek, modern bag looks like a tote and duffel rolled into one. There's also a little strap in the back that you can attach to your luggage. 

Away The Everywhere Bag

Away Travel's The Everywhere Bag lives up to its name: you can take it everywhere from work to the gym to a weekend away. It also pairs nicely with The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On.

Calpak Stevyn Duffel

Enjoy the benefits of a large bottom compartment, ideal for stowing shoes or enhancing the organization of your items.The roomy main compartment comes with interior pockets, ensuring you have plenty of space to store your belongings in a well-arranged manner.

SwissGear Apex Travel Duffle Bag

This duffle bag will come in handy during your next vacation. You can wear it multiple ways and it has reinforced sides to keep your belonging secure.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

For weekends away, this extra-large duffle includes a laptop sleeve, shoe bag and plenty of space for all your essentials.

Sign up to get the scoop on the best deals!

RELATED CONTENT:

Sales & Deals

The Best Samsonite Luggage Deals to Shop This Spring — Up to 54% Off

The Best Practical and Stylish Diaper Bags for Dads On-the-Go

lululemon's Everywhere Belt Bag Is Available in New Colors for Spring

Dagne Dover's SS24 Collection Is a Tropical Dream Come True

Béis Just Launched New Kids Luggage That's Ready for Spring Break

Away's New Soundwave Luggage Collection Is Extra Goovy

What to Pack In Your Carry-On Luggage for Spring Break Travel

14 Best Diaper Bags to Make Spring Travel with Kids Easier

Stoney Clover Lane Handbags: Shop 10 Personalized Styles for Spring

The Best Designer Tote Bags You'll Carry Everywhere From Work to Vacay

Latest news, updates on celebrity news, tv, fashion and more.

Can You Take a Tent on a Plane? Your Ultimate Guide to Air Travel with Tents

I magine this scenario: you've meticulously planned your dream camping trip. You've got your tent, sleeping bag, portable stove - everything you need for an epic adventure. But wait, you're traveling by plane! Suddenly, you're struck with a burning question: can you take a tent on a plane?

It's a common concern for travelers and a potential trip-ruiner if not addressed properly. But don't worry, we've got your back! Let's dig into the rules, regulations, and practicalities of carrying tents on planes.

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

• TSA allows tents in checked baggage, not in carry-on bags.
• Airlines may have specific size and weight restrictions for checked baggage, including tents.
• Tents may be considered oversized or overweight baggage, incurring additional fees.
• Checking with your airline before packing is crucial.
• Travel expert Samantha Brown emphasizes on following airline regulations and packing tents properly.

Read next: Can you bring a car seat on a plane?

Understanding Airline Regulations

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), you're allowed to carry tents in your checked baggage but not in your carry-on bags. This is due to the tent pegs, which could potentially be used as a weapon. However, regulations may vary across different airlines, so it's always a smart move to check with your airline before you start packing.

Size and Weight Restrictions

Each airline has its own set of rules when it comes to the size and weight of checked baggage. While some airlines may accept your tent as standard luggage, others may consider it oversized or overweight. This could mean additional fees, so be sure to account for this in your travel budget.

Packing Your Tent Properly

Travel expert Samantha Brown advises, "Tents can be a great way to save money on accommodations when traveling, but it's important to make sure you're following airline regulations and packing them properly to avoid any issues at the airport."

A good tip is to remove the tent pegs and pack them separately in your checked luggage. Another tip is to pack your tent in a sturdy bag to protect it from damage during transit. If you're a frequent flyer with camping gear , it might be worth investing in a specialized tent travel bag.

Benefits of Traveling with a Tent

Aside from the cost-saving aspect, traveling with a tent provides the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. It allows you to connect more deeply with nature and can lead to more memorable experiences compared to staying in conventional accommodations.

In a nutshell, yes, you can take a tent on a plane! But it's essential to do your homework first. Understand the rules and regulations of your airline, pack your tent properly, and be prepared for possible extra fees. Happy travels!

Can I take tent pegs on a plane?

Yes, but they must be packed in your checked luggage, as they're considered a potential weapon and aren't allowed in carry-on bags.

What other camping gear is restricted on planes?

Sharp objects like knives, multi-tools, and large liquid containers are typically not allowed in carry-on bags. Always check with the airline and TSA for specifics.

Are there any additional fees for taking a tent on a plane?

Yes, if your tent is considered oversized or overweight, you may have to pay additional fees. Each airline has its own policy, so it's important to check in advance.

Can I carry a sleeping bag on a plane?

Yes, sleeping bags are generally allowed both as carry-on and checked baggage, but always check with your airline for any size or weight restrictions.

How should I pack my tent for air travel?

Pack your tent and its poles securely in a sturdy bag. Consider packing tent pegs separately in your checked luggage to avoid issues.

For all you camping enthusiasts, here is another useful article: Can I take a cooler on a plane?

1. Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

2. Samantha Brown - Travel Expert

3. International Air Transport Association (IATA) - Baggage Guidelines

Sokolniki Camping for Tents and Motorhomes in Moscow

• Cheposh Park
• Les I More Campsite

Comments, Questions, Feedback?

Most recent articles:.