travel backpack reviews australia

10 Best Travel Backpacks Australia to Buy in 2023

By: Author The Aussie Tourist

Posted on Last updated: 03/31/2023

Categories Australian Products

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Looking for the best travel backpacks in Australia?

We recently acquired a new travel backpack for our family’s adventures. As there are numerous options, we spent quite some time researching the top travel backpack brands. I perused many travel backpack reviews to determine which backpacks would suit our family’s present requirements.

After years of experience travelling, I understand it’s crucial to contemplate a few things before impulsively purchasing a pack. First, consider who will carry the backpack, what items will it hold, and whether you need a laptop backpack to protect your device or if a budget-friendly travel backpack will suffice.

Comfort is another significant aspect; the finest travel bags are typically lightweight and fit your back and shoulders snugly, so you can travel without fretting about back and neck discomfort. We’re planning a trip to the UK and wanted something comfortable for a longer journey.

To spare you hours of research, I’ve assembled this Australian backpacks guide, which will assist you in answering these questions. I’ve gathered information on some of the leading travel backpacks from the finest backpack brands, along with their various features, so you can select the perfect backpacking bag for your needs.

Top 10 Best Travel Backpacks Australia 2023

Here’s a useful reference list of the finest travel backpacks available in Australia – see all comprehensive travel backpack reviews below!

• Gregory Mountain Baltoro Backpack, 65L
• Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack, 55L
• Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack, 50L
• Osprey Nebula 34 Laptop Backpack, 34L
• Asenlin Travel Backpack, 40L
• Zomake Packable Lightweight Backpack, 35L
• Thule AllTrail Women’s Backpack, 45L
• Osprey Women’s Aura 50 AG Backpack, 50L
• Cabin Max® Equator 44L Backpack, 44L

Top Travel Backpack Reviews Australia 2023

In this article, we evaluate our top picks for the finest backpacks for travelling.

NOMATIC McKinnon Camera Backpack 25L

Specifications:

• Type: Camera
• Capacity: 25L
• Weight: 1.3kg
• Dimensions: 7.5″ D x 13″ W x 19″ H

We recently purchased the Nomatic McKinnon which although is expensive has been worth every penny we have spent on it.

It is particularly worth it if you are looking for a great camera backpack as it is durable, good quality and has great compartments.

Buy it here .

Gregory Mountain Baltoro 65L Review

Rating: 4.5

• Capacity: 65L
• Weight: 2.5kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 69 x 28 x 43 cm

The Gregory Mountain Baltoro 65L is one of the largest travel backpacks available and is most suitable for long trips or those seeking the best hiking packs in Australia. With a massive capacity and plenty of features to ensure comfort during extended periods, this backpack is sure to please.

The unique design of this backpack keeps the load stable, making it easier to carry. With a 65L capacity and numerous pockets and storage compartments, this backpack will keep you organised while travelling.

The backpack features ‘free float suspension’, and the material allows for additional airflow as well as moisture-wicking mesh. The wide hip belt includes a pocket for easy access to smaller items like phones or wallets, and suspension that aligns with your hips for a comfortable fit. 

Of course, a huge backpack like this won’t be perfect for everybody, but it will be a years long investment for the right type of customer.

Asenlin Travel Backpack Review

• Type: Main/Laptop
• Capacity: 40L
• Weight: 2kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 47 x 32 x 24 cm

The Asenlin is a functional and intuitively designed bag, offering plenty of space with a 40-litre capacity. This upgraded bag features a large main compartment that opens fully for easy packing and organisation. It also includes three packing cubes – small, medium, and large – to simplify organisation. The front organisation pocket can hold loose items, and a rear laptop pocket can accommodate a 17″ laptop.

Comfortable shoulder straps and compression straps complete this backpack, which has been reinforced for strength and is available in a range of stylish designs.

Click here to check the price and read more reviews.

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack Review

• Capacity: 55L
• Weight: 1.8kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 61 x 33 x 33 cm

The Osprey Travel Backpack is designed to support loads of up to 25 kgs. It comes with a detachable daypack that includes a laptop sleeve and a scratch-free pocket for your eyewear. The Farpoint 55 is water-resistant, thanks to its Nylon Ripstop fabric.

These Osprey backpacks provide access to the main compartment through a large zippered panel that can be secured with locks. The laptop and tablet sleeve is also lockable. Internal and external compression straps enable you to secure items inside the backpack and reduce the overall external size if needed.

A thoughtful design, the trademark LightWire frame suspension system transfers the backpack’s weight to the hip belt, relieving your shoulders from strain. A frame sheet distributes the weight across your back. These Osprey packs offer the option to stow the shoulder straps and hip belt in a zippered compartment, streamlining your luggage for transport.

Osprey is a respected brand with excellent customer service, and the Osprey Farpoint 55 is a well-designed pack with comfort in mind.

Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.

Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack Review

Rating: 4.0

• Capacity: 50L
• Weight: 1.6kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 66 x 41 x 30 cm

If you’re looking for a comfortable and no-frills backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack may be the perfect fit for you. It has a simple design that focuses on providing the utmost comfort to its wearer.

The suspension system of this backpack allows for easy on-body adjustments. You can loosen all the straps before putting on the pack and then tighten them while wearing it to achieve a customized fit.

You can access the main compartment from the top zippered panel or through a larger zippered panel below the compression straps. The back panel is padded and ventilated to ensure you stay cool while carrying the backpack.

The backpack has a padded hydration sleeve that also doubles as a laptop pocket. However, there is no dedicated laptop sleeve. You can also use the deep side panel/pockets to carry tent poles or a fishing rod.

Some reviewers have pointed out the lack of certain features, such as no rain cover pocket at the bottom of the pack, no internal compression straps, and no lockable zippers. However, despite these shortcomings, the Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack still has received excellent ratings, and many users consider it the best 50L backpack in the market.

Osprey Nebula 34 Laptop Backpack Review

Rating : 4.0

• Type: Laptop
• Capacity: 34L
• Weight: 1.1kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 48 x 31 x 30 cm

The Osprey carry-on backpack boasts numerous pockets and ample space for a laptop backpack. With a sleek design and lockable zippers, reviews suggest this bag offers great value for money.

Osprey describes the Nebula as suitable for urban to trail use, making it durable enough for travel, commuting, or occasional outdoor trips. Key features include a blinker light attachment for nighttime cycling, a separate zippered access padded laptop sleeve, a large organisation front pocket, and a top grab handle. Mesh pockets, located on the sides and front and within the organisation pocket, provide quick access and easy visibility.

The suspended mesh ventilated back panel helps keep you cool by creating airflow between the pack and your back. The removable hip belt offers additional versatility.

The hanging padded laptop sleeve keeps your laptop off the ground and close to your back for a more comfortable carry. The Osprey Nebula is an excellent choice for those seeking the best small travel backpack.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack in Australia 2023

Zomake packable lightweight backpack review.

• Type: Carry-On
• Capacity: 35L
• Weight: 0.3kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 33 x 24 x 42 cm

The Zomake Packable Lightweight Backpack is one of the lightest travel backpacks available. It is a foldable backpack designed for travellers who need plenty of space without unnecessary frills.

The bag arrives folded in a small package and unfolds to reveal the entire bag. With a 35L capacity and ultra-lightweight construction, this backpack is ideal for day trips or long weekend getaways. There are four compartments – the front pocket (which the bag folds in/out of), the main compartment, and two front zippered pockets for easy access to accessories.

While there may be concerns about weight distribution in such a lightweight backpack, the bag does a reasonably good job of remaining comfortable, even at its affordable price point. The shoulder straps, though not extremely comfortable, sit nicely. A front buckle secures the straps in place and reduces tension on your shoulders. Unfortunately, a hip strap is not included, which would have helped with weight balance.

The bag can also be somewhat challenging to fold down again. Side pockets for drinks, side buckles for load compression, and space for a laptop are also included. The lightweight design makes it ideal for carry-on, and there are several eye-catching colours to choose from. While not perfect, this bag is a good deal, available at a very low price

Best Travel Backpack for Europe in Australia 2023

Thule alltrail women’s backpack review.

• Type: Main/For Women
• Capacity: 45L
• Weight: 1.4kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 62 x 30 x 32 cm

One of the best backpacks for women is the Thule AllTrail Women’s backpack. This bag is designed to be tailored to your individual dimensions, making it exceptionally comfortable for travel.

Women will appreciate the shoulder straps, which are among the best of any bag on the market – thick, sturdy, and high-quality. They feature a unique curved shape, which is better for contouring to your chest. The shoulder straps’ position can be height-adjusted, making it suitable for both short and tall individuals.

The hip strap is made of the same thick material, and one side can be used to add additional accessories (such as a drink bottle or camera holder) with an additional purchase.

The bag is relatively flat when empty and weighs around 1kg. This particular model has a 45L capacity, offering plenty of space. However, the same bag is also available in a 35L model – perfect for those seeking the best carry-on backpack Australia has to offer.

To pack, the bag is opened from the top, and you can easily access items directly from the zippered centre of the bag. Even when packed to capacity, it remains relatively thin. The side can be used to attach hiking accessories, and it is water-resistant with the included rain cover – essential for weathering all conditions. There is also space for a laptop.

Best Travel Backpack for Women in Australia 2023

Osprey women’s aura 50 ag backpack review.

• Type: For Women
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 81 x 36 x 36 cm

The Osprey Women’s Aura 50 AG Backpack is a large pack that has received excellent reviews for its comfort features.

Focusing on creating a comfortable, larger-sized pack for women, Osprey has delivered with the Aura 50. Featuring a trademarked AntiGravity suspension system and a curved design, the Aura 50 effectively transfers weight to the comfortable hip belt. This is crucial for a pack of this size, as you don’t want to be burdened with neck and shoulder pain on the first day of a 10-day trip.

The harness is adjustable while you’re wearing the backpack, and the hip belt has pockets for snacks, phone, or sunscreen. The pack offers plenty of pockets without being confusing, along with compression straps, lockable zippers, and bottom storage for a sleeping bag.

This is a large pack that is thoughtfully designed. If extra space and comfort are high on your priority list, this might be the backpack for you.

Cabin Max® Equator 44L Backpack Review

• Type: Carry On
• Capacity: 44L
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 56 x 23 x 36 cm

The Cabin Max Equator 44L Backpack 2.0 is an upgraded version of the original Equator bag that was well-loved by travelers. This backpack is specifically designed to fit the carry-on restrictions of almost all major airlines, making it the perfect choice for those seeking the best backpack for carry-on.

The backpack features several zippered pockets and compartments. On the front, there are two zippered pockets and one with a D-ring for easy storage of keys. This section can be unclipped from the buckle to reveal a mesh screen, several other pockets, and a hidden pocket for valuables. Additionally, there is a felt pocket specifically designed for storing laptops up to 15 inches.

The main compartment of the bag has a removable dividing panel, allowing for easy organization of your belongings. It offers a vast amount of space with a 44L capacity.

The Cabin Max Equator 44L Backpack 2.0 is easy to carry, with grab handles on both the top and side. The backpack can be packed away like a carry bag when the shoulder straps are removed, making it convenient for travelers.

Comfort is prioritized with the 2.0 model, which has thicker shoulder straps and padded backing for added comfort. The backpack also has strengthened compression straps, room for hiking accessories and drink bottles, and is available in several stylish designs. A thin but appreciated hip strap is also included.

Overall, this Australian backpack is well-constructed and affordable. With a 3-year warranty, there’s very little not to love about the Cabin Max Equator 44L Backpack 2.0. 

Why And When Is It Best To Travel With A Backpack?

The top backpacks in Australia aren’t only for young travellers staying in dormitories. A backpack is suited for various travellers who appreciate the freedom of hands-free movement without having to manoeuvre a cumbersome suitcase.

The best travel backpacks grant you flexibility when you encounter a flight of stairs or arrive at a hotel without an elevator. Additionally, a backpack is ideal for travelling with children, as it lets you keep your hands free to hold a little one’s hand without struggling to wheel a suitcase while ensuring the kids’ safety.

What To Consider When Buying The Best Travel Backpack Australia 2023?

Do you travel light? Are you physically fit? Do you need to carry a laptop or tent on your travels? What other factors should you consider when purchasing?

Travel backpack brands provide backpacks for everyone and every occasion; there isn’t a “one size fits all” backpack.

Whether you’re searching for the top hiking backpack Australia has, the best daypack for travel, or the ultimate backpack for Europe or Asia, it’s essential to take time to identify your backpack requirements and find the perfect one.

Nowadays, purchasing backpacks online is simple (I recommend online shopping for travel backpacks, as it’s generally the most affordable option), but remember to consider size when doing so. If it’s too small, you won’t fit all your family’s belongings; too big, and you might have to check the bag or pay for excess luggage.

It’s also important to think about who will be carrying the backpack. A tall man and a petite woman have very different frames. I suggest aiming to find the best lightweight travel backpack that meets your needs in all other aspects.

Many travellers these days prefer a carry-on backpack Australia has to offer, and there are some fantastic choices for the best carry-on luggage backpack. However, there are equally excellent bags with multiple compartments for those travellers who like to bring a lot of items with them.

When examining the top backpack brands in Australia and their products, consider whether you want a front-loading or top-loading bag. Essentially, this means deciding if you want to access your belongings through the top or the front of the bag. In my opinion, front-loading packs are far more convenient; they resemble a suitcase and typically have various compartments, making it easy to find your items.

Compartments

Speaking of compartments, when searching for the ideal backpack in Australia for you, consider what items you’ll carry and which ones you’ll need to access quickly and frequently. A sleeping bag or change of clothes doesn’t need to be as accessible as a rain cover, phone, camera, passport, tickets or laptop.

Internal compartments are essential for keeping things organised and easy to locate when needed. With many travellers taking various gadgets with them, there are excellent packs on the market with compartments designed to keep these items safe.

For instance, if you’re taking your laptop, you may want to consider the best laptop backpack Australia offers. In the reviews below, there are some fantastic options if you’re looking for the top laptop backpack for travel. These packs have compartments designed to keep your laptop secure and easily accessible while travelling.

Comfort is crucial when purchasing the best backpack for travel, and ergonomics are a priority for designers, which means the highest-quality backpacks come with comfortable straps.

A good strap system will distribute the backpack’s weight across your back, with most of the weight resting on your hips via the hip belt. Some of the best backpacks for travelling feature pockets in the hip belt for snacks or small phones.

Consider padding, breathable fabric, removability, adjustability, stowability for plane travel, and pocket availability when looking at straps.

Backpack straps are adjustable around the hips, shoulders, and even across the chest to keep the shoulder straps in place, regardless of body shape.

Other Key Features

Key features for outdoor travelling include water-resistant fabric, quick access to a rain cover, water, and snacks. If you plan to use it daily for work, study or commuting, a reflective strip or the option to attach a blinking light might be important for you.

There is no single “best backpack in the world”; it must suit your needs. Keep this in mind when choosing and try not to be dazzled by features.

Laptop/Other Gadget Compartments

If you travel with a laptop, look for a pack with a built-in laptop compartment. These compartments have padded sleeves designed to keep your laptop safe and secure while travelling.

Other packs have specific compartments for mobile phones, keys, passports, tickets, and cameras.

Carry Handles

Carry handles offer additional versatility. They mean you don’t always have to wear your backpack on your back; you may be able to stow your straps and carry it like a traditional suitcase. Carry handles also help when placing your bag in overhead plane lockers and on buses.

Water Resistance

Water-resistant fabric is a great feature for a backpack. It’s one less thing to worry about if it starts raining or if you accidentally spill something on your backpack. It gives you extra time to find shelter or grab your rain cover, ensuring your backpack and its contents are protected.

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Friday 14th of April 2023

Hi, Being in the market for a new travelling backpack I read your recent review and thought that it had narrowed the field nicely. The Cabin Max Equator seemed just the thing. However, after searching, these don't appear to be available in Australia. Are you aware of any Australian distributor of Cabin Max? Regards Duncan

The Aussie Tourist

Hi Duncan, I agree it's a really good option. It does go in and out of availability on amazon so I would recommend to keep checking. We purchased the Nomadic recently and although it was really expensive we haven't regretted it so thats another good choice if you can justify the price. Cheers

• Suitcases And Bags

13 best travel backpacks, from carry-on to adventuring in 2024

Whether you’ve booked a weekend away or a month long holiday, these are the best travel backpacks that will see you through your trip.

These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer.  Learn more

If you plan on embarking on your first-ever adventure or simply aim to cross more destinations off your bucket list this year – ridding yourself of any unnecessary stress is important.

And along with a great suitcase, having a solid, comfortable and functional travel backpack is a must-have for adventuring stress-free.

Just picture this: You’re at the airport with your backpack, all your essentials are in their respective pockets, they’re easy-to-reach and you aren’t worried a single bit because we helped you pick the best travel backpack. Sounds like the ideal situation, right?

That’s why we’ve rounded up the best travel backpacks and hybrid duffle bags that are reliable and frequent flyer approved – including the top-rated Caribee Traveller Backpack that shoppers say is “totally worth buying” and “excellent quality”.

Scroll on to see more of our top picks.

HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS

Our team of experienced writers spent hours researching the best travel backpacks to include in articles. We found out what factors make a great travel backpack by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.

OUR TOP PICKS

In this article.

• How do I choose the right travel backpack?
• How can I efficiently pack my travel backpack?
• What size carry-on is allowed in Australia?

BEST BACKPACKS FOR TRAVEL

Caribee Traveller Carry-On Backpack 40L Capacity, $124.90 at Amazon Australia

Caribee Traveller Carry-On Backpack

What You Need To Know

Offering a large front pocket which is great for quick access to items, this backpack has split level packing compartments to keep your gear organised and separated. It also has a rear padded zip pocket for your laptop, grab handles, oversized water bottle pocket, concealable backpack straps that you can easily tuck away as well as a concealable shoulder bag strap for those days when you want to use it as a duffle. Not to mention, it also has rear luggage trolley loops so you can sit it securely on top of your larger suitcase.

Five-star reviewers on Amazon say it’s “totally worth buying”.

“Not often do you get that feeling of ‘this is totally worth what I paid for it’ feeling. This backpack gives me that feeling. Totally worth buying. I love the fact that it has a water repellent bottom on it. This is a necessity that is often overlooked. Beautiful thick padded shoulder straps are great. Super comfortable. Good big water bottle holder too. Totally impressed! Good quality with beautiful material. Looks excellent too,” one wrote.

Coowoz Large Travel Backpack, $85.83 at Amazon Australia

Coowoz Large Travel Backpack

Made from a durable waterproof polyester material, this bag has two adjustable padded shoulder straps for lightweight carrying and shoulder pressure relief. It features three main pockets, one 14-inch laptop compartment and multiple inner and side pockets for any extra bits and bobs, it also has a shoe compartment (!!!) as well as a wet bag pocket for keeping wet clothes and towels separated from your dry items.

Boasting a 4.6-star rating with more than 11,000 five-star ratings and over 1000 reviews, many shoppers have said the backpack is the “ultimate travel companion”.

“Lots of handy compartments, especially the vented shoe bag inside. Fits all your electronics and personal items with great pockets for passports etc,” one five-star reviewer wrote.

Another said: “The spacious interior and multiple compartments allow me to organise my belongings efficiently, while the durable and waterproof material ensures that my items stay safe and dry, even in unpredictable weather conditions.”

Bellroy Transit Backpack, $379 at THE ICONIC

Bellroy Transit Backpack

Featuring a 15” laptop compartment, dual compartments to keep your clothes separate, external-access pockets for easy access to a passport, wallet, water bottle and more, front pocket with key leash, soft-lined sunglasses pockets, padded shoulder straps for comfort and a sternum strap. It’s also made from a durable, water-resistant fabric that makes it suitable for travelling around the world or for everyday and work.

It currently has a 4.7-star rating on Google with reviewers hailing it a “great travel bag”.

“The Bellroy Transit is pretty much the ideal travel bag for me,” one wrote.

“You can fit everything You need for backpacking or long term travel in the bag if you’re a strategic packer, and the bag has just enough storage without ending up with a bunch of pockets you never use. The bag is also very well built. I honestly can’t see myself managing to break it with even remotely normal wear and tear.”

Another wrote: “Just the right size. Big enough to carry a laptop, some clothes and more but compact enough to be comfortable to carry. The quality of the fabric is great and the laptop sleeve is nice.”

Herschel Little America 25L Backpack, $150 (down from $200) at Myer

Herschel Little America Backpack

What kind of backpack roundup would it be if we didn’t include Herschel? This bag has a padded and fleece-lined 15” laptop compartment, internal pocket, zippered front pocket with key leash, drawcord closure, magnetic strap fastening and contoured padded shoulder straps.

One five-star reviewer on Myer says it’s “a backpack you want to wear”.

Another five-star reviewer wrote: “Sturdy, spacious, good looking backpack for both men and women. It’s perfect for travellers and for commuters who need to carry a lot of things with them to work.”

“The laptop sleeve easily fits and protects my 14” laptop and some small notebooks. The main pouch was surprisingly large; it easily holds all of my laptop accessories, purse contents, a water bottle, and my lunch bag. The straps magnetically connect to the bag, but are sturdy enough to stay in place while still allowing quick access to your things,” they added.

Cotinga Pack 16L, $119.98 at Kathmandu

Cotinga Pack

Made from recycled polyester, this backpack has a main compartment with inner pockets to organise all your essentials, 15” laptop sleeve, padded shoulder straps with an adjustable sternum strap, secure front pocket with a key loop, side drink bottle pocket and reflective details.

Five-star reviewers say it’s a “fantastic all-round bag”.

“You cannot go wrong with this bag – functional for school, work, leisure, outdoors. Fantastic quality. Well worth the money!” one wrote.

The ReNew Transit Backpack, $162 at Everlane

The ReNew Transit Backpack

Made from 100 per cent recycled polyester with a water-resistant finish, this bag features a 15” laptop pocket, catch-all zip pockets for easy access to passports, tickets and wallets, interior slip pockets, two water bottle holders, magnetic flap closure and a luggage strap.

It currently holds a 4.7-star rating with over 400 five-star reviews.

“The perfect backpack. Super roomy without being too big. Super comfortable without being overly padded or sporty. Perfect mix of professional and cute. Perfect amount of organisation – useful and intuitive without being too fussy or inflexible. I am nothing but pleased and receive compliments everywhere I go,” one wrote.

Another wrote: “I love it for travel – fits well under the seat with everything I need for long haul flights, including a messenger bag or other handbag for wallet/essentials/nights out and shoes for dressier affairs. It’s great for taking along baby needs, whether travelling, out for a walk, etc. At home I like to keep it in my car to go from gym to grocery store, meetings with laptop, etc, and just pull out what I need for each thing. Highly recommend.”

BEIS The Backpack, $147.79 at Revolve

BEIS The Backpack

Designed with a front zip pocket, large main zip compartment, padded laptop sleeve (up to 14”), luggage strap, key leash, two water bottle pockets and water-resistant inner lining. She’s cute, practical and perfect for school, work, travelling and everything in-between.

One five-star reviewer says it’s “the perfect bag for travelling or an overnight stay”.

“I absolutely adore this bag! It’s the best carry-on bag for me and I can fit everything I need in it. The perfect bag for travelling or an overnight stay!” they raved.

Another reviewer wrote: “Perfect travel companion. Fits right under the seat in front of you. So much stuff inside including the computer and the feature that makes it open all the way is very helpful.”

Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack, $69.90 (down from $89.99) at Amazon Australia

Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack

Made from durable polyester, this backpack features three exterior handles, multiple organisational compartments, laptop sleeve, adjustable straps, sternum strap and a removable shoulder strap for when you want to carry it like a duffle.

“Value for money travel backpack. Was sceptical at first when purchasing before a 2 month European trip due to the cheap price/brand when compared to other travel backpacks. Lived/travelled entirely out of the backpack while travelling 16 countries over the 2 months and have nothing but good things to say about the backpack – great value for money,” one five-star reviewer wrote.

“This is my favourite travelling bag. Get in and out fast. It holds everything I have and more. Perfect for Jetstar, it fits their requirements without charging you extra. Used it a bunch of times and holds up very well with nothing broken and no issues. This is a similar size to a rolling carry-on luggage, but you save weight without having the wheels and frame of the rolling one. Which is great if you are only allowed a certain weight like 7kg. I would definitely buy this again and recommend it to travellers,” another wrote.

Volume+ Backpack, $295 at July

Volume+ Backpack

Made from a durable nylon fabric, this bag has a main zip compartment with a 21L capacity that you can increase to 26L just by unzipping it. It has a padded base with metal feet, hidden pocket with magnetic closure which is perfect for keeping your passport and phone, 16” padded laptop sleeve, front zip pocket with a key leash and slip pocket, padded shoulder straps and a luggage strap.

One five-star reviewer hailed it “streamlined and roomy”.

“Perfect backpack for daily use and/or plane carry-on. The extender makes it roomy but manageable with the extender zipped up, this bag is streamlined and sleek, making it ideal for public transport and commuting. Lightweight and sturdy, too, with useful interior compartments. I use it for work (laptop, books) and gym (sneakers, change of clothes) and travel. Love it!” they wrote.

BEST HYBRID DUFFLE BACKPACKS FOR TRAVEL

Fjallraven Kanken Weekender, $316.45 at Amazon Australia

Kanken Weekender

This weekend is made from a durable Vinylon fabric and features its iconic handles, a zippered front pocket, signature reflective logo, main zip compartment and a front compartment that expands or collapses – so you can use it for shoes, a towel or to keep laundry separate from your other essentials. It’s also available in a range of colourways to suit your vibe.

“Perfect size for travel, extremely convenient for weekend trips or wanting some extra space in carry-on luggage,” one five-star reviewer wrote.

G4Free Sports Duffel Backpack, $51.84 (down from $60.99) at Amazon Australia

G4Free Sports Duffel Backpack

For long weekends away or overseas travel, this duffle bag will be your new companion. Made from 100 per cent nylon, it offers three ways to carry: shoulder bag, handbag or backpack, thanks to its hidden backpack straps and detachable shoulder strap. Designed with a separate shoe compartment with an air hole, sternum strap, a wet pocket for wet clothing, and a main zip compartment with inner pockets – it also has a carry handle, two-way zippers and a water-resistant finish.

One five-star reviewer says it’s “good value for money”.

“Good bag. Lightweight, but zips feel sturdy. Can pack up small when not in use. Useful pockets. Love that it can be carried as a holdall or backpack, makes it versatile and comfortable for travel. Colour is nice, however not the most practical as it shows marks easily. Despite this, I’m happy with my purchase!” they wrote.

Nordace Henge 45L Carry-On Backpack, $239.99 at Nordace

Nordace Henge 45L Carry-On Backpack

Designed to be packed like a suitcase, this bag has a large main compartment that opens 180 degrees to give you full access to your travel essentials, organisational pockets, 17” laptop compartment, front pocket, 1500mL water bottle pocket, detachable hip belt with a pocket, hidden pocket with RFID blocking technology to safely carry your passport and money, USB charging port, compression shoulder straps for stability, sternum strap, luggage strap to pop it securely on your suitcase and a retractable key leash.

One five-star reviewer wrote: “Excellent travel backpack. Heaps of room to fit everything that is needed in a carry on. So much more practical than a suitcase as it leaves your hands free. It is so good that we are getting a second one.”

“One of the best backpacks I’ve ever owned. So well made, excellent design, versatile & lightweight. Perfect for FIFO, short & long trips for men & women. Just love it!” another wrote.

Base Camp Duffel – XS, $160 (down from $200) at The North Face

Base Camp Duffel - XS

It has a main compartment with mesh pockets for organisation, detachable adjustable shoulder straps, four compression straps, ID window, padded side handles and D-zip opening with a weather-resistant flap.

One five-star reviewer hailed it “the perfect carry on”.

“I love this bag! I have been looking for a weekend bag which is large enough for all my stuff as a chronic over-packer but small enough to use as hand luggage on short haul flights. Having seen the larger sizes of the base camp duffle around, I thought I would give the XS a try and it does not disappoint! The bag itself is very durable and easy to organise – I love the fact that it opens up fully like a duffel but you can wear it as a backpack. The straps are also surprisingly comfortable, even after a full travel day,” one wrote.

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT TRAVEL BACKPACK?

Choosing the right travel backpack varies with each scenario, however, you’d ideally want one that is the right size and capacity for your needs, has a variety of organisational pockets and compartments, comfortable shoulder straps and is weather-resistant. You can also consider whether you’d prefer a backpack or a versatile hybrid duffle backpack.

35L and less – smaller backpacks or day packs are great for short weekends away, domestic trips or day activities like a hike as they won’t be too heavy.

35L to 45L – medium-sized backpacks are a good in-between option for a week-long overseas trip (granted you’re not an overpacker). If you’re going somewhere warm, it’s perfect for packing thinner clothes but if you’re going somewhere cold, this size may not be great for packing thicker pieces of clothing.

45L and up – large backpacks are a must if you’re planning on going away for more than a week. They’re spacious and will be able to hold everything you could possibly need to be self-sufficient. If you’re going somewhere that’s cold, you’ll be able to pack your thicker layers comfortably in a backpack of this size.

HOW CAN I EFFICIENTLY PACK MY TRAVEL BACKPACK?

Keeping your travel as stress-free as possible is important, so when it comes to packing there are two things to consider: convenience and comfort.

Convenience: Pack your backpack with the items you won’t use during the day or necessarily need straight away at the bottom of your bag. Make sure important things like your passport, wallet, toiletries and other essentials are easily accessible and placed at the top.

Comfort: Keep heavy items at the bottom and close to your back – this is so that they don’t affect your balance by pulling you sideways, backwards or forward, and so that they don’t crush anything that may be fragile or light.

WHAT SIZE CARRY-ON IS ALLOWED IN AUSTRALIA?

While it varies among different airlines, most Australian Airlines follow the same rule of thumb when it comes to carry-on luggage.

You can take one bag (H56cm x W36cm x D23cm) with a maximum weight of seven kilograms, although some do offer up to 10 kilograms.

You also have the choice of taking two carry-on bags (H48cm x W34cm x D23xm), or one bag and one soft garment bag.

Keep in mind that when flying overseas, carry-on bag limits aren’t always the same across airlines so double-check your airline’s policy before packing.

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Packing for a weekend away? Perhaps you've only purchased carry-on luggage? Or maybe you're like me and simply like to travel as light as possible?

Bringing a travel backpack makes the journey that much smoother "because they’re more functional and convenient than almost every other type of bag," says Travel Writer Kirrily Schwarz .

You'll want something that can fit your necessities but won't weigh you down from prolonged wear. If you're using it as your carry-on you'll also want to make sure it fits perfectly in that overhead compartment.

"The main difference between cheaper and more expensive travel backpacks is the material and the design - more expensive backpacks tend to be lighter and stronger with a more ergonomic and practical design," says Kirrily. "That said, there's something for every budget, whether your travel style is minimalist or maximalist.

Whatever your needs or budget, we've hunted down the best travel backpacks to carry your into your next holiday. So strap in. Here we go:

Our top picks of best travel backpacks:

• Best travel backpack, overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
• Best carry on travel backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best affordable travel backpack: Amazon Basics Carry On Travel Backpack
• Best travel backpack with a dedicated laptop pocket: Nordace Siena - Smart Backpack
• Best travel backpack with wheels: Kathmandu Hybrid v3 32L Trolley
• Best lightweight travel backpack: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Back
• Best small or mini backpacks: Paravel Mini Fold-Up Backpack
• Best hiking backpack: Forclaz MT500 Air Trekking Backpack
• Best durable travel backpack: Nordace Henge 45L Carry-on Backpack
• Best travel backpack for families: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L

Best travel backpacks, overall

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack, Amazon, from $405.41

• Weight :  1587g
• Capacity:  35 litres
• Laptop compartment: Yes
• Hip belt:  Yes

One for the intrepid traveller, Escape's Associate Digital Editor Simone Mitchell cannot rave about Cotopaxi enough.

"I came across a Cotopaxi store when I was in Tokyo and the bold colours grabbed my attention," says Simone. "I have since purchased a duffel bag , bum bag , backpack and hat, and am a huge huge fan. Their bag design is super smart with good size pockets, comfy straps, and robust zips. I get so many comments on it whenever I take it travelling."

Of your options, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands out as one of its best travel backpacks. Designed in a suitcase style, it's subdivided into zippered mesh compartments, so you can kiss your packing cubes goodbye. The padded laptop sleeve is accessed by a side zip and the shoulder straps and waist belt can be tucked away to reduce snags.

To top that off there's a sternum strap and air mesh panel for a better, more comfortable, fit.

What's more, the bags are sustainably made using fabric cut offs that were originally destined for landfill and the company dedicates a percentage of revenues to nonprofits working to improve the human condition.

Herschel Little America Backpack 30L, The Iconic, from $200

• Weight :  1 kilograms
• Capacity: 30 litres
• Hip belt:  No

Herschel is one of Escape List Editor  David Smiedt 's  favourite carry-on luggage brands , and is a beautiful blend of style and sustainability. The Little America line of travel bags gets its inspiration from mountaineering backpacks and is made of recycled weave and leather-look closures.

Available in 20L, 25L and 30L capacities, it's smaller than a cabin size bag and soft enough to squeeze under the chair in front.

The 15" laptop sleeve is a fleece lined to prevent dings and scratches and the shoulder straps are thickly padded for support. Travel writer Kirrily Schwarz also loves its "aesthetic and secure closure".

Kathmandu Cotinga Pack 30L, The Iconic, $95.99

• Weight :  680 grams

Travel Writer Kirrily Schwarz's is currently travelling with the 25L version of Kathmandu's Cotinga and "so far, it's serving me really well," she says. 

"I travel a lot and I tend to be quite hard on backpacks! This one has a tough outer fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, which I love, as well as a tidy aesthetic and a functional design. I work on the road so I need to keep items such as a laptop and pens handy, and I love extra pockets to store all my cables and wires. There’s also a convenient hook for my keys which means I never have to stress about losing them," says Kirrily.

Carry All Backpack, July, $245

• Capacity: 20 litres

With a 99 per cent recommend rate and a 4.9 out of 5 star review rate, it's little wonder that Travel Writer Kirrily Schwarz has dubbed this one backpack to keep an eye on. "Stylish and well designed" it's quilted for comfort, has soft leather handles, and a handful of hooks and clips for accessories and keys.

The inside is divided into four main sections: a front pocket, main compartment, laptop sleeve and QuickPass top pocket with magnetic closure to reduce fumbling for the important stuff like hotel keys and passports.

It's available in three colours: forest green, French navy and midnight black and comes with a 5 year guarantee.

"What truly sets this backpack apart is its comfort. The padded straps and back panel make it a pleasure to carry even on long journeys, and the weight distribution is superb. I can carry all my essentials without feeling any strain on my shoulders or back," exclaims one five-star review.

Boondocker Recycled 26L Backpack, Passenger Clothing, $84.95

• Weight :  718g
• Capacity: 26 litres

This chameleon of a travel bag is one of Escape writer James Booth's favourites. "It fits a laptop and plenty of clothes and also works for day hikes" he says.

For the sustainable traveller, it's made from 100 per cent recycled polyester with a tough 600D water resistant outer to keep your valuables safe.

There's air mesh padded shoulder straps for long walks, and a seemingly endless number of compartments, including a main compartment with top drawstring closure, internal mesh accessory pocket, top pocket, front pocket and laptop sleeve.

Best carry-on travel backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, Camera Pro, $599

• Weight : 2.05kg
• Capacity:  45 litres

When you're looking for carry on luggage that can fit all your tech, has flexible organisation options, and is weatherproof and waterproof, you can do little better than the award winning Peak Design' Travel Backpack.

Launched in 2018, this premium travel bag moves seamlessly between work and play, comes in two colourways and has a near-perfect 4.8-star review on the Peak Design website across over 900 travellers.

It has a 30 litre capacity which can be expanded to 45L, padded shoulder and waist straps that can be tucked away for the flight, and 360 degree grab handles so you won't have to do an awkward dance when pulling it out of the overhead bin.

Lightweight padding provides structure and protection for your fragile tech, and there is front, rear and side zips for accessibility.

Oh and did we mention Peak Design makes some of the best quality packing cubes around? True story.

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro, Tortuga Backpacks USD$350

• Weight : 2.kg
• Capacity:  40 litres

One of the best carry ons that you can sling on your back right now, the Tortuga Travel Backpack has caught the attention of everyone from Wirecutter to Travel + Leisure and has been described as a "nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage".

At 55 x 35 x 20cm it's maximises your cabin luggage limit with its main compartment accessed from the front for optimal packing. It also has a fleece lined sleeve for your devices, making it a great laptop backpack as well.

It's doesn't expand but is made from a flexible material that packs down easily. The biggest downsides for Aussies is that it's only available in the US but we're keeping our eye out for when international shipping opens up.

Best camera bag for travel

Shimoda Action X30 V2 Starter Kit, $639 

• Weight: 862g
• Sternum Strap: Yes
• Capacity: 30 L

You may have been to the world’s most extraordinary destination, but if you haven’t got the photo to prove it, does  it even count? That's why you need the best camera bag for travel .

With travellers on a quest to improve their holiday snaps, specialist photography tours are popping up around the globe. Guided by experienced photographers, these tours combine opportunities to capture spectacular subject matter – from stunning landscapes to unique wildlife to colourful cities – with expert support to gain new camera skills. 

Photographer Chris Bray, who has been running tours globally since 2010, explains expert tuition is  just part of the appeal. “Increasingly, people don’t really come on photo tours just to get photos – photography  is becoming a lovely reason for them to travel in a  small unhurried group, to unique and beautiful  places, often away from the crowds, and to create memories,” he says.

Best affordable travel backpack

Amazon Basics Carry On Travel Backpack, Amazon, from $89.90

• Weight : Around 3.5 kilograms
• Capacity:  63.9 litres

Amazon's Basics range is quickly becoming my go-to for affordable kit that doesn't sacrifice on style or quality. From suitcases to packing cubes , they do it all.

Its carry on backpack costs from $89.90, has a 4.5 customer rating across 8000+ customers and has been named the Best Budget Travel Backpack by Switch Back Travel.

Various sections, including a main compartment, front pocket, top-pocket and laptop sleeve, make organising a cinch. Padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap and hip/waist belt add a world of support.

There's even an expansion zipper for 10% more packing space - should you find a few unexpected souvenirs to take home.

Best travel backpacks with a dedicated laptop pocket

Nordace Siena - Smart Backpack, Nordace, $149.99

• Weight : 880 grams
• Capacity: 19 litres
• Hip belt: No 

Practical, smart and roomy enough to fit a 15.6" laptop, Nordace's Siena Backpack ticks all the boxes. This unisex bag sports Nordace's signature Scandi-design with block colours and a square silhouette. 

An anti-theft pocket at the back is large enough to pack your wallet, phone and passport while RFID-Blocking Card Slots keep your money safe.

We love the dedicated USB charging port which lets you power up your device without having to rummage through your pack for your charger . Then there's the water resistant material and padded laptop sleeve to keep your tech safe and secure, even if you're caught in the rain.

Being almost 900g, it's not the lightest travel backpack on the market, but it has all the bells and whistles you could need.

If you love the look Nordace sells Scandi-designed packing cubes and apparel, too.

Samsonite Avant III Laptop 17L Backpack, Myer, $139

• Weight : 800 grams
• Capacity: 17 litres
• Hip belt: No

This Samsonite recently caught travel writer Kirrily Schwarz's eye, plucked out of the crowd for how "sleek" it looked, it comes in a classic silhouette and colour, is padded to the hilt to protect your devices and has a luggage sleeve to fix it to your suitcase handles when rolling from it plane to hotel.

The reviews speak for themselves: "This is probably one of the best laptop backpacks I've had. Slim looking and heaps of compartments for other stuff," says one Myer customer. "Smart and functional - understated and great quality," says another.

Best travel backpack with wheels

Kathmandu Hybrid v3 32L Trolley, The Iconic, $174.99

• Weight : 2.28 kilograms
• Capacity: 32 litres
• Laptop compartment: No

Named the best rolling travel backpack by backpacking guru Nomadic Matt,   Kathmandu's Hybrid Trolley has converted even die-hard backpackers to the benefits of wheels.

Lightweight at just over 2.28kg, the compact version has a 32-litre capacity and converts quickly to a backpack when the terrain gets rough.

For longer journeys it's available in 50L and 70L .

One reviewer says it still looks new after a four-month Asian odyssey, saying "after the trip, my partner ditched her trusty conventional rucksack that she has been emotionally attached to for 10 plus years, to get one of these … she was that impressed."

Best lightweight travel backpacks

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Back, Wild Earth, $65.95

• Weight:  113.4g
• Capacity:  18 litres

This ultralight travel backpack comes in at a teeny 113.4 grams and is constructed from a thin but strong 40D Ripstop Nylon material that crushes down into a carry-case the size of your fist.

A stretchy mesh side pocket fits a water bottles and the adjustable shoulder straps come with some mesh cushioning for comfort.

Over 2,700 Amazon reviews give it an average rating of 4.6 with customers saying, "it's feather light and stuffs into its own pocket" and "lightweight, versatile, tough/great quality! My favourite bag".

After road testing it Pack Hacker was impressed by its weight and durability, though warns that due to its packable nature it lacks structure and "feels flimsy at the back".

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack, BCF, $49.99

• Weight : 72.57 grams

Like everything else these days travel backpacks are getting smaller and more portable. Lightweight fabrics and structureless bags can see you fold them down to pocket-size.

Of your options the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Daypack is a lightweight pack that folds down to the size of a tennis ball. It weighs less than 75 grams and is water resistant.

TravelFreak names it the Best Lightweight Packable Backpack and the Wirecutter has it down as one of its top picks for the Best Packable Daypack for Travel saying it's "perfect to keep in your pocket or in the glove compartment of your car".

Unlike other lightweight travel packs where weight capacity is questionable, the reinforced stitching on the Ultra-Sil's stress points means it can take a bit of heft.

One Amazon reviewer said they carried a Canon EOS 80D with Canon 10-18mm attached, Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera microphone with Rycote Lyre shock mount, 1.5 litres of water and a water filter across rough terrain and it held together.

Best small or mini travel backpacks

Paravel Mini Fold-Up Backpack, Amazon, from $182.82

• Weight: 200 grams
• Capacity: Approx. 12 litres

Style meets functionality in this mini backpack courtesy of luggage brand Paravel. It packs into a small pouch (11.4 x 12.7 x 5.1cm) for portability and flips open in a second (or two) for when you need a day pack for that festival or that quick pop out of your hotel.

The outer is made from a water-resistant negative nylon and to add to its travel-friendliness there's a luggage strap to attach it to your suitcase and a zippered front pocket for quick access.

There's reinforced webbing on the adjustable shoulder straps for strength and the entire mini backpack is machine washable.

"Stylish, well made packable travel bag," says one five-star review. We couldn't agree more.

The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack, The Iconic, $130

• Weight: 340 grams
• Capacity: 10 litres

This mini backpack is a scaled back version of the popular North Face Borealis Backpack and is the perfect companion for short hikes and sports enthusiasts.

True to the North Face, unlike other mini backpacks that are slim and trim for day trips, the Borealis packs in a mountain of features for the adventure seeker. Think an interior padded sleeve and mesh pocket to adjustable straps, daisy chains, bungee cords and side pocket.

For added comfort, this mini backpack features a padded, yet breathable, back panel and while it's not large enough to fit a laptop it's roomy enough to store a tablet.

Fjallraven Kanken Mini, The Iconic, $169.95

• Weight: 220 grams
• Capacity: 7 litres

In a world of drab blacks and greens, stand out with the brilliant colours of Fjallraven.

Their itty bitty mini backpack is just 29 centimetres high but pack in three pockets, convertible straps to carry it as a bag, and a name and address label on the inside.

Kirrily Schwarz calls it "classic and hard-wearing" and due to its size can be worn as a adult's mini backpack or a kid's backpack.

Jansport Half Pint Backpack, The Iconic, from $41.95

• Weight: 181 grams
• Capacity: 10.2 litres

This exceptionally lightweight backpack wouldn't look out of place at the gym, work or plane. Built to last, it's made from a super tough 600 Denier Polyester and has several pockets to keep you organised.

The main compartment is roomy enough to fit a tablet, water bottle, camera and then some. There's also a handful of front pockets for your keys, phone and charger.

Being a unisex mini backpack, it comes with adjustable straps and is available in a variety of colourways and materials, including a classic black. Keep in mind the straps aren't padded and this is best for lightweight travel rather than a tough trail.

Best hiking backpack

Forclaz MT500 Air Trekking Backpack, Decathlon, from $219

• Weight : 1.6 kilograms
• Capacity: Womens: 45 litres (+10 with extension) , Mens: 60 litres (+10 with extension)
• Hip belt: Yes

Like it says on the tin, this pack is designed for trekking and it has a solid 4.6 star rating from over 250 Google Reviews.

This large hiking backpack accommodates a hefty 45 litres, though you can bump that up to 10 litres with the extension. It fits the carry-on rules of most airlines and weighs 1.6kgs, which includes the 100g removable rain cover.

There are a bunch of compartments on top of a generously sized main compartment, and it comes in a men's and women's version with belt and shoulder straps designed for different bodies.

Shop women's

Best durable travel backpack

Nordace Henge 45L Carry-on Backpack, Nordace, $239.99

• Weight : 1.56 kilograms
• Capacity: 45 litres

Built for maximum space while still staying true to the dimensions of a carry-on suitcase, the Nordace Henge is a "beast of a backpack" as one reviewer calls it. It has a bold look and a 180° suitcase-style opening to make packing (or throwing packing cubes in) a breeze.

For the working man, a 17" laptop sleeve, interior gadget pockets and USB charging port.

There's a nifty luggage strap along the back to hook it onto your checked-in luggage.

As far as travel packs go, it's built extremely tough as one reviewer on the Nodace site remarks, "it seems impervious to my rough use, which will be the same rough use for every bloke who will typically buy this large backpack."

Best travel backpack for families

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L, Amazon, from $377.86

• Weight : 1.2 kilograms
• Capacity: 30 litres (can expand to 35L)
• Hip belt: Yes (removable)

Take it from someone who likes to bring everything they could possibly need on the plane for their toddler, a travel backpack that's built around compartments is a must for families.

Yes, the price-point is on the pointy end of the plane but the Topo Global Travel Bag is the mother of organisation with a U-shaped main compartment, a large secondary compartment, internal security pockets, dual slip pockets, exterior vertical pocket and laptop sleeve.

It can be worn 3-ways to suit the preference of whichever parent or child has been nominated to carry it and has a pass-through panel to attach it to a rolling suitcase.

Outdoor Gear Lab praises it as a top pick for the Best Travel Backpack saying it "distributes weight nicely" and has a "highly organised structure".

Best convertible travel backpack

Cotopaxi Todo 16L Convertible Tote, Wild Earth, $169.95

• Weight :  420g
• Capacity:  16 litres

If the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel bag mentioned above is too large for trip or if you're looking for something less backpacker more daytripper the Todo 16L  is worth checking out.

This stunner converts from a travel backpack to a tote in the blink of an eye. A top zip makes accessing your essentials from the main compartment a breeze and a padded laptop sleeve and fleece lined pocket keep the important stuff protected.

There's also a daisy chain on the front to attach anything that requires quick access.

Best anti-theft backpack

Pacsafe Venturesafe X34 Anti-Theft, Amazon, $135.83

• Weight :  508g
• Capacity: 6 litres

Safety is a key consideration when you’re backpacking, but thankfully, hi-tech modern bags are designed to keep you safe from pickpockets.

Pacsafe's Venturesafe line of travel bags has a laundry list of anti-theft technologies stitched in including cut-resistant material, RFIDsafe blocking pockets, eXomesh slashguard, PopNLock security clip and anti-theft zipper anchor lock.

The 34-litre travel backpack is small enough to be used for carry-on, and it comes with a five-year warranty.

How we choose products

Our team of experienced writers and travellers have spend hours researching travel bags, duffels and daypacks. We find out what factors make the best travel backpack by chatting with expert travellers, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.

How to choose the best travel backpack for you

Travel Writer and camping expert Kirrily Schwarz calls out size and organisation (is it big enough and does it have pockets?), comfort and fit (does it come with adjustable straps?), quality and durability (is the fabric water resistant?) and security features (does it have lockable zips or RFID protection?) as the key features to consider when choosing a travel backpack.

Here's her explanatin:

Size and organisation

The first step in buying a travel backpack is to make sure you choose the right size. To give you a rough idea, backpacks around the 20L mark suit fast and organised travel, backpacks around the 40L mark are ideal for carry-on baggage, and backpacks around the 60L mark are perfect for checking in. Once that’s sorted, look at its organisation - what pockets and pouches does it have? Is there a laptop sleeve or a sunglasses pocket? Lots of bags come with designated spaces for items such as keys, chargers, pens, and water bottles, which streamline your trip because you’ll never have to waste time rummaging at the bottom.

Comfort and fit

Adjustable straps allow you to personalise your backpack’s fit and ensure you’re well balanced. However, they’re not the only feature to consider when it comes to comfort. If you’re planning a big trip, you’ll be wearing your backpack for hours at a time, so make sure you look at the design and ensure it’s balanced – you don’t want to twist your spine to accommodate the load. Padding also makes a huge difference, both in the straps and in the backpack itself, and if you’re visiting a warm climate, check out some designs that incorporate mesh to improve the airflow between the bag and your back.

Quality and durability

Travel backpacks have a tough life, so quality is an important consideration. Durable fabrics will help prevent rips and tears, while water-resistant materials will help keep your valuables safe and dry. It’s also important to consider the stitching as well as the quality of fasteners such as zips, buckles, snap fasteners, and magnetic fasteners, as these are often the first part of the backpack to fail. Price is often a good indication as to the quality of the backpack, but not always, so make sure you read the reviews before you commit to a purchase.

Security features

Modern travel backpacks come with a range of cool security features designed to keep you safe while you’re travelling. Some important ones to look for include lockable zippers, which makes sure no-one can sneak up behind you and get into your bag while you’re wearing it. Hidden pockets are also a great idea, because you can store essential items such as your passport and wallet out of sight. You may also want to consider RFID protection, which can shield your credit cards from electronic pickpocketing and help safeguard your personal information. Speaking from personal experience, it’s also worth making sure your backpack’s closures are robust, so your bag doesn’t accidentally fall open while you’re on the move.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best travel backpack to take on a plane.

"If you’re flying, the most important consideration is that your travel backpack meets the airline’s carry-on size and weight requirements," says Kirrily. "Your bag might need to be smaller than you think – on Jetstar domestic flights, for example, the strict 7kg limit suits backpacks around the 20-30L mark. Meanwhile, Qantas domestic flights allow a maximum of 10kg per piece, which might suit a bag up to 40L."

"The key is always to weigh it before you get to the airport," she says. "Personally, I think it’s always better to err on the side of minimalism to avoid the stress!"

What is the best size backpack for travelling?

That really depends on your needs. Kirrily explains: "If you’re looking for something light and easy to transport the essentials, aim for something around the 15-20L mark. If you’re wanting to make the most of your carry-on luggage, you could look for something around the 40-litre mark – however, you can jam a surprising amount of things into a bag of this size, so make sure you weigh it before you fly to ensure you’re compliant with the airline’s weight limits. On top of that, if you’re planning to ditch your suitcase and opt for a backpack as checked luggage, you could go for something in the 65-85L range."

Are mini backpacks good for travel?

"A mini backpack can be a great idea for travel, depending on your style," says Kirrily. "They're perfectly suited to travellers who like keeping things light, fast, and organised, because they'll only be able to accommodate your essentials. That means important items such as your passport, wallet, sunglasses, and headphones, are always at your fingertips."

If you're an overpacker, a mini backpacker could be a good way to keep yourself in check. "Because the back simply won’t accommodate everything – you’ll have to be strategic about what you bring with you," says Kirrily.

Can I use my travel backpack as my main luggage or can I pair it with a suitcase?

You can do either or both.

If you're a light packer on a short trip you very much could fit everything you need into your travel backpack and simply use that.

If you're on a longer trip or know you have a tendency to overpack, having a travel backpack with your essentials as carry-on luggage and packing everything else into your main suitcase is a good idea. This way you can avoid any unnecessary fees if your backpack goes over the weight limit.

You can also check your travel backpack in if you like. Some travel bags such as the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L cater for this and let you tuck the shoulder straps and waist belt into a compartment to avoid snagging or ripping in transit.

Just remember to keep any personal or fragile items such as your passport and devices  on you for the flight.

Keep in mind that certain items are prohibited from being packed as carry-on, such sharp objects, and these will need to go into checked luggage.

Can a 35L backpack fit under an airplane seat?

Most airlines allow you to bring one cabin bag as well as a personal item that can fit under the airplane seat. The size of the underseat in front of you will vary,  however to maximise space we suggest you use a travel backpack with a flexible material.

Generally speaking, a 35L backpack can fit under an airplane seat when reasonably packed.

Are there restrictions or guidelines for what I can pack in my travel backpack?

If you're carrying your backpack onto the plane with you, you'll need to comply with the current luggage restrictions on what you can and cannot bring.

When travelling domestically, there are no liquids restrictions so long as you're leaving from a domestic terminal.

If you're departing from an international terminal, you won't be able to bring liquids of more than 100ml onboard. 

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Stephanie loves to stretch her dollars on everything travel - from hotels to suitcases - and is always excited to share her knowledge of hacks and bargains so others can get more bang for their holiday buck. She was previously the Travel and Shopping Editor at Finder and has been featured in Travel Weekly, KarryOn and The Guardian. Stephanie can't resist a good flight sale, is a stickler for travelling as light as possible (sorry books, hello Kindle) and is currently navigating how to travel with a toddler.

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The Best Carry on Backpack in Australia for 2024

Written by: The Adventure Lab

Last Updated: July 15, 2022

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Carry-on backpacks can be the best way to conveniently transport your gear during air travel. They allow you to pack in a surprisingly large amount of luggage while remaining lightweight and compliant with airline restrictions. 

However, with so many options on the market, it can be hard to find the product that is right for you. In this article we break down everything from design, to accessories, to durability to help you find the carry-on pack that best meets your specific needs.

Our top pick: Osprey Farpoint 40L Ultralight Travel Backpack

Osprey is one of the most trusted names in the outdoor gear world and with this pack they integrate their high-end tech with travel functionality.

Designed for comfort, yet not compromising on features and durability, it’s hard to look past the Farpoint if you’re in the market for a great carry-on travel pack. This backpack is built for total all-round use and for versatile, on the move, light packers.

Whether It be a city or a campsite, its minimalistic design and customisable setup (it can be transformed in a duffel bag) makes it perfect also as a carry-on bag for airplane, train or bus travel.

• Trusted market leader in outdoor gear
• Very lightweight and comfortable
• Multiple carry options
• Suitable for everyday use
• Lifetime guarantee
• Excellent value for money
• Not too many accessories or compartments for devices
• Design may seem too minimalistic for some

Kathmandu Litehaul 38L Carry-On Pack

The Kathmandu Litehaul one of our favourite lightweight  travel packs  thanks to its incredible external size to internal storage ratio (dimensions are 55cm x 32cm x 30cm).

This makes it an excellent option for those wanting to maximise the gear they can transport while still remaining within airline luggage restrictions. It comes with a myriad of accessories including an Air pod system, tuck-away zip belt, external laptop pocket, lockable main zipper and more.

To top it off it is made of polyester recycled from plastic bottles.

• Impressive internal capacity despite its small size
• Opens up like a suitcase for easy access
• Can also be carried like a suitcase (good for airports once shoulder straps packed away)
• Feature packed
• Environmentally friendly
• 38L may be too small for some travellers
• Side pockets if packed can impact space availability of the main compartment

Osprey Fairview 40L Womens Travel Backpack

The Osprey Fairview is similar to the Osprey Farpoint but designed specifically with female travellers in mind. Like its male counterpart it is crafted for maximum performance in all settings and situations.

At 53.3 x 35.6 x 22.9 cm it is smaller than the Litehaul and Farpoint but still scores highly in airplane carry-on compliance.

• Light and comfortable for extended travel
• Impressive hide-away strap system
• Variety of colours options
• Sleek design
• Works well as cabin luggage
• Location of laptop compartment may not be best for weight distribution
• When the main compartment is full the front compartment space is less usable

NOMATIC Water Resistant 40L Travel Bag

Nomatic as a company is quickly making a name for itself with its top of the line highly technical and effective backpacks.

Not only is this pack completely water resistant making it a great outdoors bag, but it is also completely TSA approved and designed for maximum efficiency while travelling. It is also the most accessorized bag on this list with RFID pockets, cord organizers, laptop and tablet pockets and more.

• Designed to be the ultimate modern light backpack
• Impressive storage space
• Top of the line water resistant nylon lining
• High TSA compliance
• Layout may be considered counterintuitive by some users

Hynes Eagle 38L Flight Approved Weekender Carry On Backpack

The Hynes Eagle 38L is an affordable compact bag that still packs a punch, with numerous accessories including compression straps, handy front organizer pockets and multiple carrying options backed by a sleek design.

• Clever, spacious design
• Highly water-resistant polyester and nylon exterior
• Compartments work well for organisation
• Straps may lose grip faster than other counterparts
• Likely to be less durable than more high-end options

Carry-On Backpack Buyer’s Guide

Want to know what to look out for on your search for your perfect travel pack

Below we discuss the key considerations:

It might seem obvious but how can you effectively choose a backpack the right size for a trip of any given duration? The perfect backpack should be able to comfortably fit and protect your most crucial travel equipment.

This could range from a few changes of clothes and footwear to documents (passports, insurance documents etc), toiletries, medication and electronic equipment.

A good backpack should be able to reasonably fit whatever is needed for the voyage comfortably, as well as offering basic protection from the elements for more fragile belongings.

Perhaps most importantly, you need a carry-on backpack that will comply with airline restrictions.

Below are links to the carry-on rules for some of the more popular Australian and International carriers:

INTENDED USE

Your choice of backpack should reflect your destination. Mountain, jungle, wilderness or urban settings all present different challenges in choosing the correct gear.

Nowadays backpack engineering is an incredibly high precision effort with many different facets. There are state-of-the-art backpacks for every use. From tech-savvy duffel bags compliant with airplane regulations to models intended for hardcore trekking, hiking and camping all the way to backpack brands that try their best to make both ends meet.

RELATED: The Best Wheeled Backpacks

DESIGN AND ACCESSORIES

As backpack technology and design improves, there are a number of features and accessories that are becoming mainstays in terms of providing the level of functionality that users demand.

• Some of the most important features to consider are:
• Separate pockets and compartments (including shoe pockets, hidden pockets, RFID or Radio Frequency ID pockets, sunglasses pockets, book and document compartments and for the tech-savvy, laptop and camera compartments)
• Retractable sleeves
• Adjustable, comfortable and customisable straps
• Water-resistant covers for rain
• Lockable zippers
• Magnet clips
• Material resistant to other elements such as snow, mud, dirt and sand

Choosing the right balance between accessories, spaciousness and design is an integral part of opting for the right backpack.

DURABILITY AND WARRANTY

Another extremely important factor is the lifetime of your backpack. Regardless of use, all travel gear will eventually succumb to some wear and tear. Try and understand the strengths and weakness of the backpack’s structure and material and make sure it comes with a reasonable warranty (most companies on our list offer extended or even lifetime warranties) on any product.

A great carry-on backpack can really elevate your travel experience to the next level. When choosing your pack be sure to consider your personal preferences and style of travel, in conjunction with the various considerations mentioned in our buyers guide. While any of the products on this list would make an exception travel companion, our top pick is the  Osprey Farpoint  thanks to its exceptional design, durability, and value for money. Happy travels!

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The Adventure Lab

Tasmania Explorer

Choosing The Best Carry On Backpack Australia [2023]

After many years of travelling with too many things, I know that having a good quality carry on backpack is a worthy investment. Your backpack stays with you throughout your journey, so you want to ensure it has everything you need. The best carry on bags are lightweight and comfortable to carry without causing any strain to your shoulders and back.

Finding the right backpack can be quite an overwhelming endeavour. There are so many different brands and models on the market with several factors to consider such as durability, cost and capacity. Additionally, it must meet the size requirements of airlines. To save you the hassle, I have put together this buying guide to assist you in finding the best carry on bag suitable for you.

Click here to see the top carry on backpack now!

Whether you are searching for the best budget carry on backpack, the best carry on backpack for international travel, the best carry on backpack for business travel or the best carry on backpack for men, you are sure to find one that suits your requirements.

Keep reading and you will find everything you need to know to pick the best carry on backpack for you below, including a comparison chart of all the top carry on backpack options, a full guide to the main features to consider when looking for the best carry on backpack for travelling and, finally, individual reviews of each of the best carry on backpack 2023 options. This will help you whether you are looking for a large carry on backpack or the best small carry on backpack or something else entirely.

• 1.1 Bellroy Carry-on Travel Backpack
• 2 Compare The Top 10 Best Carry On Back Pack Australia 2023
• 3 Top 10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2023
• 4.1 Capacity
• 4.2 Dimensions
• 4.4 Durability and Material
• 4.5 Other Great Features
• 5.1 AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack Review
• 5.2 Bellroy Carry-on Travel Backpack Review
• 5.3 Osprey Farpoint 40 Backpack Review
• 5.4 Pacsafe Venturesafe G3 Review
• 5.5 Kelty Redwing 44 Backpack Review
• 5.6 Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack Review
• 5.7 Mark Ryden 23L/40L Business Carry-on Travel Backpack Review
• 5.8 KROSER Travel Laptop Backpack Review
• 5.9 BANGE Carry On Backpack Review
• 5.10 Kaka Carry On Duffle Backpack Review
• 5.11 Related posts:

Our Pick For Best Carry On Backpack Australia 2023

Just want to buy the best carry on travel backpack 2023 right now? Great! This is our top pick among our carry on backpacks Australia reviews.

Bellroy Carry-on Travel Backpack

A great all-round backpack that ticks all the boxes. This is a sizeable 28L backpack and the best cabin backpack for a long weekend. It is spacious, includes internal compression straps and also doubles as a laptop bag. It’s comfortable to carry and constructed from recycled water bottles. There’s a lot to love!

Click here for the latest prices and more information.

Compare The Top 10 Best Carry On Back Pack Australia 2023

Here is a carry on backpack comparison chart so you can select the best carry on travel backpack for your situation. Use this table to compare the features of the best carry on backpacks for travelling in Australia. If you want more information on a product or the current price, click on the product name.

Top 10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2023

Find our handy list of best carry on backpack for travelling options – see our full carry on travel backpack reviews further below.

• AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack, 64L capacity
• Bellroy Carry-on Travel Backpack, 28L capacity
• Osprey Farpoint 40 Backpack, 40L capacity
• Pacsafe Venturesafe G3, 25L capacity
• Kelty Redwing 44 Backpack, 44L capacity
• Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack, 40L capacity
• Mark Ryden 23L/40L Business Carry-on Travel Backpack, 23L – 40L capacity
• KROSER Travel Laptop Backpack, 22L capacity
• BANGE Carry On Backpack, 26-45L capacity
• Kaka Carry On Duffle Backpack, 40L capacity

How To Choose The Best Carry On Backpack for Travel 2023

When you are choosing the best carry on duffel backpack or the best carry on backpack with wheels, there are so many great options out there that it can be easy to get carried away with cool designs and fancy features. Whichever best carry on pack or best carry on luggage backpack with wheels you choose to go for, make sure you have considered the following factors before making your final choice.

One of the most important factors in deciding which best cheap carry on backpack is best for you is how much you can fit inside. The capacity of the best air travel backpack is usually measured in Litres and the maximum volume allowed is approximately 45L.

The capacity of the backpack which you require will depend on what items you like to pack and the purpose of your backpack. If you need to travel with a laptop or camera, you may need to consider a bigger capacity compared to lightweight travellers who may only carry a few extra clothes.

When choosing the best carry on luggage backpack, try not to look for something too big and bulky. Keep in mind that airlines have specific size requirements and that carry on backpacks have to be relatively small to fit the overhead bins. For this reason, the dimensions of the largest carry on backpack must be ‘flight approved’ for the airlines you will most likely be flying with.

As mentioned above, airlines have very strict weight requirements for the best travel carry on bag. You should keep in mind that the best carry on backpack luggage can weigh up to 2kg, which is added to the total luggage allowance.

You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy backpack that will cause pain to your neck and shoulders. Look out for the best airline carry on backpack that includes a hip belt and is adjustable, so the weight is evenly distributed from your shoulder to your hips.

Durability and Material

When investing in the best travel carry on backpack, you want to make sure it is built to last. This depends a lot on what type of material the backpack is made from. There is a wide range of fabrics available. The most common options with their advantages and disadvantages are listed below.

• Cotton: Affordable and breathable so it’s a great material if you plan on wearing the pack for long periods but generally weaker than something like nylon so could rip easier.
• Nylon: Strong and water resistant but not very breathable so could lead to a particularly sweaty and sticky back if worn for a long time.
• Polyester: Usually has more protection from UV deterioration but can tear easily.

The quality of stitching also plays an important role in defining the lifespan of the best carry on backpack for women or men. So, although a cotton material may rip easier, if it has excellent stitching that will help a little.

Other Great Features

The best carry on backpack should come with various features for added durability, ease of use and comfort. What features you want with your backpack will depend on your usage and preferences. A few features to consider include:

• Different compartments: Easy access to important essentials such as passports, tickets or water bottles is made much easier if they have a specific compartment and you don’t have to dig through the whole bag to find something.
• Water resistance: Ensures water doesn’t come into the bag so your valuables are protected and it’s important if you’re not sure what type of weather you’ll be travelling in. Even just wearing the bag from an airport to a train station in the rain could see your gear getting wet if the bag isn’t water resistant.
• Separate laptop sleeve: Perfect for those who travel for business or carry their laptop with them during travel. Many laptop sleeves provide a little extra padding to provide extra protection and make it easy to quickly find your laptop.
• Adjustable hip straps: These ensure weight is evenly distributed from the shoulders so there is less strain on your back and they are particularly important if you know you’ll be wearing the bag for long periods.

Top Carry On Backpack Reviews Australia 2023

Amazonbasics carry-on travel backpack review.

Rating: 4.5

Specifications:

• Capacity: 64L
• Dimension: 40 x 54.6 x 21 cm
• Weight: 1.65 kg
• Material: 100% Polyester

When it comes to great value, it doesn’t get much better than this carry-on travel backpack from Amazon Basics. This bag successfully offers both functionality and flexibly. It has a suitcase-like design to maximise the interior space with internal compression straps and a side zippered mesh compartment. The front features a deep zippered organiser for all your travelling essentials.

This bag offers flexibility in that it can be worn on your back, with both a chest and waist strap for comfort, as well as with the shoulder strap. This best airplane travel backpack meets all the carry on regulations.

There is also a back laptop sleeve if you’re after the best carry on laptop backpack and an expander zip for even more storage. The backpack review on Amazon are all fairly positive, and it also comes in blue, black and red – take your pick!

• Very affordable
• Designed to maximise space
• Front organiser with multiple compartments
• Empty weight is on the heavier side

>> Click here for more details and the latest price.

Bellroy Carry-on Travel Backpack Review

• Capacity: 28L
• Dimension: 52 x 38 x 14 cm
• Weight: 1.1 kg
• Material: Recycled plastic

Bellroy offers a range of quality products, so it’s no surprise that they also offer the best backpack for plane travel. Bellroy’s backpack carry on size is a generous 28L, with plenty of space both inside and out.

The backpack has a few great features including a separate compartment for placing gym gear or dirty laundry that you don’t want touching everything else, a handy 15″ laptop compartment, and four pockets on both the side and front of the backpack for storing your drink bottle, passport etc.

You’ll also find internal compression straps, which are ideal for saving space and securing clothes and other essentials. Plus, this bag is made from fully recycled materials, so it’s a purchase you can feel good about.

• The best carry on size backpack for a long weekend
• Internal compression straps
• Constructed from recycled water bottles
• A pricier option for backpack cabin luggage

Osprey Farpoint 40 Backpack Review

Rating: 5.0

• Capacity: 40L
• Dimension: 56 x 36 x 23 cm
• Weight: 1.36 kg
• Material: 210D Nylon Mini Hex Diamond Ripstop

If you’re after the best lightweight carry on backpack, the Osprey Farpoint should not be missed! Osprey is a trusted brand, so there is no doubt that this bag is highly durable. Although it is a backpack, it is multifunctional as it can open up like a suitcase making it much easier to pack.

This best Osprey carry on backpack is made from Nylon material and is water resistant. Another great feature is the hip belt and harness, which distributes weight evenly on your hips, making the backpack highly comfortable. It also comes with a special laptop compartment and mesh compartments to store your belongings safely.

You will not need to worry if things go wrong, as all of Osprey’s products come with a lifetime warranty.

• Hip belt distributes weight evenly
• Nylon fabric is water resistant
• Highly Durable
• It doesn’t come with a rain cover

Pacsafe Venturesafe G3 Review

Rating: 4.0

• Capacity: 25L
• Dimension: 24 x 29 x 48 cm
• Weight: 0.90 kg
• Material: Nylon and Polyester

This particular backpack is very easy to use and an excellent choice for those hunting for the best travel backpacks for flying. If you’re looking for something lightweight, then this is may be the best backpack for air travel for you. It has an ample amount of inner space for your belongings.

The best part about this bag is the number of extra features it has for added security. The ‘exomesh slashguard’ easily goes unnoticed, but it is a cut resistant fabric that prevents people from slashing through the bag with a knife. The zippers also slide into each other for added security.

The padded and adjustable shoulder straps with a hip strap for weight distribution offer extra comfort. We also love that this best international carry on backpack comes with a loop and lock shoulder strap you can hook around a chair or pole when needed to give you added peace of mind. Additionally, it has an RFID pocket to prevent card skimming, front easy grab handle and various different sized pockets.

• Extremely lightweight
• Versatile (can be used for daily commutes, camping, hiking)
• Cut resistant fabric & lock strap for extra security
• 25L can be quite a small capacity when packing for travel

Kelty Redwing 44 Backpack Review

• Capacity: 44L
• Dimension: 60 x 40 x 30 cm
• Weight: 1.7 kg
• Material: Nylon

Although this backpack looks more like a hiking bag in terms of appearance, the multipurpose design and the 44L capacity will ensure you have a hassle free travel experience.

This model is now equipped with many extra pockets compared to its previous model, making it much easier to store your belongings. It contains a spacious main compartment with a laptop sleeve and two side zipper pockets for your smaller accessories.

A unique feature of this bag is the ventilating back panel, which not only provides comfort but also prevents sweat build up on the back of the user. Overall, a great backpack to consider that is both sturdy and comfortable for your travel journey.

• Extra pockets for easy storage of luggage
• Ventilating back panel that prevents sweat
• A large capacity cabin backpack
• Zippers aren’t lockable for extra peace of mind

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack Review

• Dimension: 47 x 32 x 24 cm
• Weight: 1.32 kg
• Material: Polyester Oxford Cloth

If you still haven’t found a backpack that fits within your budget, this 40L carry on backpack by Asenlin is a great choice that is both simple and affordable. The models have been upgraded many times to make them as user friendly as possible.

This 40L backpack carry on can easily transform into a duffel bag when needed with top and side carrying options to switch when needed. The added compression straps on the bag’s exterior reduce pressure on the zippers and prevent items from moving around inside.

If you love being organized, you will appreciate that you also have the option of getting three custom made storage bags of different sizes to pack your belongings.

• Budget friendly clamshell backpack Australia
• Choice of different carrying options
• Compression straps on the bag’s exterior
• The weight isn’t evenly distributed when the backpack is full. This may cause some users neck and back pain after use for long periods

Mark Ryden 23L/40L Business Carry-on Travel Backpack Review

• Capacity: 23L – 40L
• Dimension: 46.6 x 35.2 x 8.4 cm
• Weight: 1.2 kg
• Material: Water-repellent Cloth

With a sleek and practical design, this carry on backpack has a minimalist look and is sure to meet all your backpack requirements. It is made from water repellent material, with three easily accessible pockets with seven compartments inside.

The adjustable waist straps and breathable mesh shoulder straps ensure that there is not too much pressure on your shoulders.

This cabin luggage backpack has a 40 litre capacity but can be collapsed to 25 litres when needed for daily use or to comply with the regulations of stricter airlines. You will love that this Backpack has a built-in charging cable for a more convenient way to charge your phone, especially for the technologically savvy, business traveller or those who frequently use their phone.

• Sleek and practical layout
• Collapsible design from 40L to 25L
• Built in charging cable
• No pockets to store a water bottle

KROSER Travel Laptop Backpack Review

• Capacity: 22L
• Dimension: 47.2 x 27.4 x 34.3 cm
• Weight: 1.22 kg
• Material: Water-repellent ballistic fabric

The next best backpack for air travel is the KROSER Travel Laptop Backpack. This is among the best selling backpacks on our list with plenty of compartments, as well as safety and comfort features built in.

First, this bag is built from a strong water repellent material, and includes a sturdy top handle, as well as two padded shoulder straps with a fastener between them. The carry on backpack size is approximately 44 litres – among the best travel backpacks for flying.

RFID shielded pockets give protection whilst travelling, and there is also a convenient in-built side USB port for charging devices which you can hook up to a power bank. There’s also space for a 17″ laptop and plenty of pockets, and compartments on both the front and side. The luggage straps also make it the best international carry on backpack.

The style is fairly neutral, but durability and convenience is where this light weight carry on backpack excels!

• In-built USB port and RFID protected pockets
• Plenty of compartments
• Super durable
• Not the most stylish design

BANGE Carry On Backpack Review

• Capacity: 26-45L
• Dimension: 49.5 x 33 x 29.2 cm
• Weight: 1.55 kg
• Material: Waterproof PVC Front + Oxford body

The next best travel carry on backpack is not your typical carry-on backpack. In fact, this is a backpack that opens like a suitcase with divided compartments, a large capacity and expandable storage.

The BANGE travel backpack features both top and side handles, as well as shoulder straps with a buckle between them, offering versatility and allowing you to use it as you wish.

When it comes to its compartments, this bag features a hidden back pocket for valuables, a large zippered central compartment, a separate waterproof pocket for toiletries, and three front zippered pockets for loose items. The bag is also expandable from 26L to a huge 45L, with side compression straps to reduce bulkiness. It also has a separate laptop pocket and is constructed from waterproof material.

There’s a lot to love about this unique bag, and although it does get heavy quickly, it’s a top pick for staying organised.

• A backpack that opens like a suitcase
• Expandable from 26L to 45L
• Waterproof material
• Can get quite heavy if you choose to maximise space

Kaka Carry On Duffle Backpack Review

• Dimension: 38 x 28 x 11 cm
• Material: Tear-Resistant Oxford Fabric

Kaka Carry on duffle backpack has been constructed with tear resistant oxford fabric, which is durable and built to last. You can easily hide the shoulder straps if you want to use it as a duffle bag too.

The “S” shaped shoulder straps ensure a perfect fit, and the shoulder straps are made from elastic and breathable material to optimise comfort. The main compartment is very spacious and is big enough to fit a 17 inch laptop. Similarly, the front compartment has numerous pockets to fit all the essentials in an organised manner.

If you’re after a multipurpose backpack, the Kaka carry on bag is worth considering.  This backpack can be used for hiking, day trips and camping too.

• Tear resistant fabric
• Durable and built to last
• It can be interchanged to a duffle bag when needed
• Heavier and bulkier compared to other backpacks on this list

I hope you enjoyed this guide and find it helpful in choosing the best carry on backpack for your next trip! Looking for other travel or camping essentials? Read about the best packing cubes , best camera bag , best duffel bag , best carry on luggage , best travel backpacks , best hiking backpacks , best pop up tent ,  best camp shower ,  best sleeping bag ,  best camp ovens or find all my guides to the best camping gear here .

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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By Shan Hutchinson

Shan grew up in Tasmania, moved away and then came back with her family twenty years later. She loves re-discovering her home state and sharing it with you here.

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on March 20, 2024 to add the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L — a supremely nice commuter-style travel pack, as well as the Thule Aion 40L and Osprey Archeon 30L .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
• Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
• Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
• Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
• Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 to 35 liters.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

• Capacity 33 L
• Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

• Cheap price
• Available in many different fabric prints
• Unique insulated cooler pocket
• Not many travel-specific features
• Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack ($75) is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. This design has a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe. There’s an organizer pocket that’s perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but they would have been nice for a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does the basics, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

• Capacity 40 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
• Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
• Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

• Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
• External compression straps limit the volume well
• Comfortably padded grab handles
• Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

• Capacity 45 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
• Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
• Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

• Excellent storage organization options
• High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
• No frame to speak of
• Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
• Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
• Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
• Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

• Multiple ways to carry the pack
• Many different storage and internal organization options
• Burly external fabric
• Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and compliments the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack. This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously. “It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

• Capacity 27.5 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
• Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

• Dang good looking
• High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
• Supper cushioned back panel
• Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
• Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions.  And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

• Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
• Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
• Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
• Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the pack. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

• Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
• Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
• Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
• Centered side handle carries well
• Well-cushioned back panel
• No shoulder strap stowage option
• No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”) the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more. 

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps. 

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

• Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
• High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
• Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
• Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
• Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

• Capacity 25 L
• Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
• Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
• Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

• Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
• White interior for easy viewing
• Floating laptop sleeve
• Not very much interior organization
• Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
• Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
• Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

• Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
• Plenty of organizational pockets
• Bright interior
• Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

• Capacity 28 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
• Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

• Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
• Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
• On the heavier side
• TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
• Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
• Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

• Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
• Built to last design and materials
• Removable webbing hip belt
• Suspension doesn’t pack away
• Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check and Arc’teryx Granville packs (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

• Capacity 32 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
• Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
• Material 420-denier recycled nylon

• TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
• Many options for organization
• Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
• Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like it’s all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend-Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30 liter range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 liters, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snuggly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become one of our dedicated laptop toters for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which at 24 liters compressed easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

From short weekend getaways to far-off international adventures, our top travel packs make it easy and comfortable to organize and carry the essentials.

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

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

Whether you’re traveling across the globe or headed out on a quick weekend getaway, a thoughtfully designed travel pack can help you stay comfortable and organized while on the move. Key considerations include carry-on compatibility for air travel, enough capacity to stash your belongings, pack weight, and preferences on storage and organizational layouts. Below we break down the best travel backpacks of 2024, ranging from minimalist options for a couple nights away to larger bags with removable daypacks for extended trips. For more background information, see our detailed comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Editor’s note: We updated our travel backpacks guide on March 29, 2024, to add The North Face Base Camp, which is a fully featured option at a competitive price, along with swapping the Patagonia Black Hole MLC from the 45-liter capacity to the 30-liter version due to its more manageable shape and size.  

Our Team's Top Travel Backpack Picks

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
• A Close Second (That's Great for Carrying Electronics): Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips: Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L
• Best for Staying Organized: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack
• Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips: Osprey Farpoint 70

Best Overall Travel Backpack

1. cotopaxi allpa 35l ($200).

When compiling our list of the best travel packs, we prioritized functional organization, easy on-the-go access, durable materials, and carry-on compatibility. Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Travel Pack checks all those boxes emphatically, earning it our top spot for 2024. Along with the vibrant styling and multi-colored patterning that the brand is known for, the Allpa is exceptionally durable with a mix of 1,000-denier, TPU-coated polyester and panels of 840-denier ballistic nylon. In use, we found the Allpa to be remarkably tough and highly water-resistant, and the pack also comes with a stowable rain cover for truly inclement weather. We also love the dual access to the main compartment, including a full wraparound zipper and secondary side zip next to the backpanel for easily retrieving items while on the move. And the electronics sleeve is big enough to handle both a laptop and tablet at the same time, which isn’t often the case. Overall, the Allpa is well made, stylish, and very nicely appointed for travel.

What’s not to like with the Cotopaxi Allpa? While the 35-liter variation here is nicely sized for long weekend trips or shorter getaways abroad, it’s smaller than competitors like the Peak Design Travel Backpack, Osprey Sojourn Porter 46, and many other carry-on-friendly designs below (Cotopaxi does sell a larger 42L version for $220 that still meets most airline requirements). Further, while overall carrying comfort is good, there are no load-lifter straps to bring the pack closer to your body. Additionally, the interior pockets are a little awkwardly sized, and the lack of external compression straps makes it hard to secure bulkier loads. A final omission is water bottle storage, although it’s not a critical feature for most and does little to dampen our enthusiasm for an otherwise well-rounded and great-looking bag. And for those looking to check their luggage, the Allpa roller bags are equally tough and user-friendly. See the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A Close Second (That's Great for Carrying Electronics)

2. peak design travel backpack ($300).

Peak Design’s Travel Backpack may look relatively unassuming on the outside, but don’t be fooled: This bag is packed with thoughtful travel-ready features. First is the expandable design, which allows you to alternate between 35 and 45 liters by simply zipping or unzipping the frontmost zipper. Access is another highlight, including entry points at the top, side, front, and rear for easily retrieving items pretty much anywhere in the pack. Storage is also excellent with padded laptop and tablet sleeves, a divisible main compartment, large and stretchy dual side pockets (not common on travel packs), and multiple interior pockets. And it’s all wrapped up in a thick nylon canvas shell that’s durable, streamlined, and very modern.

What complaints do we have about the Peak Design Travel Backpack? Price is the most glaring downside: At $300, it’s one of the most expensive designs on our list. And while the bag is undeniably sleek, it’s pretty utilitarian-looking and less everyday-friendly than more vibrant options like the Cotopaxi Allpa above and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag below. It’s also on the heavy end at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which isn’t unreasonable but does add considerable heft compared to many competitors. Finally, the Travel Backpack is technically not carry-on compliant when expanded, measuring 22 x 13 x 11 inches (the standard U.S. domestic carry-on limit is 22 x 14 x 9 in.). But it works at the compressed 35-liter size (or smaller 30L option) , and photographers in particular will love the shape, which nicely accommodates multiple camera cubes, lenses, and other accessories. If you fall into that group, another staff favorite is Wandrd's Prvke , which features a more modular design with specialized add-ons for camera gear. See the Peak Design Travel Backpack

Excellent Carrying Comfort for Gear-Intensive Trips

3. osprey sojourn porter 46 l ($195).

Osprey is a leader in the backpacking pack market, and much of that technology and expertise has trickled down nicely into their travel pack collection. The Sojourn Porter 46 L is case in point, combining the impressive carrying comfort that the brand is known for with a practical, carry-on-friendly build and feature set for travel. Starting at the outside, you get a rigid foam backpanel with well-cushioned shoulder and hipbelt straps that feel reminiscent of Osprey’s backpacking designs, a handy compression system to effectively cinch things down, lockable zippers for the main compartment, and a beefy side handle for hauling the pack duffel-style. The inside is a similar story with ample pockets of varying sizes, compressions traps to keep clothes tidy, and padded sidewalls to help protect valuables during travel.

Despite offering 11 more liters of capacity than our top-ranked Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for $5 less), the Sojourn Porter 46 L is still carry-on compliant, making it the largest option here that still meets most domestic and international airline restrictions. It’s also impressively sturdy and durable and includes reinforced cord loops to attach to Osprey's Daylite or Farpoint/Fairview daypacks (sold separately). We do wish Osprey offered the design in a women’s version for those with smaller torso and waist measurements, but the unisex sizing is standard in the travel market (their Farpoint/Fairview below is one of the few models to come in a separate women’s version). In the end, if it fits you well, the Sojourn Porter offers a hard-to-beat mix of capacity, features, and comfort for the price, making it our favorite option for longer, gear-intensive adventures. See the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L

Best Travel Pack for Staying Organized

4. topo designs global travel bag 30l ($199).

Topo Designs flies a little under the radar compared to well-known brands like Cotopaxi and Osprey, but don’t let that deter you—this company makes exceptionally built and good-looking packs for everything from commuting and travel to more technical pursuits like biking and climbing. Their Global Travel Bag 30L here is a shining example and stands out in one major way: internal organization. Put simply, there’s no shortage of options for divvying up your belongings, from the vertical daisy chain webbing on the front to the expandable side water bottle pockets, ample zippered storage inside and out, a laptop sleeve along the backpanel, and several interior mesh pockets. Like the Cotopaxi Allpa above, the Global Travel Bag is also well equipped for rough use, including a mix of 1,000- and 1,680-denier ballistic nylon that gives the pack a noticeably burly, confidence-inspiring feel—at a very manageable 2 pounds 10 ounces to boot.

That said, the extensive feature set does add some complexity when it comes to organization. We like the big clamshell opening to the main compartment, but we had to reorganize to make everything fit into the various compartments (they're optimized for Topo Designs' Pack Bags , which are smaller than our standard packing cubes). The tall and slim shape is also best suited for clothing rather than bulky gear, which may be limiting for outdoor adventures that involve camping or backpacking. We also wished there were a little more padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt while walking through airports with the pack stuffed full, but it distributed the load pretty well (and the hipbelt can be tucked away when not in use). In the end, no pack is perfect, but the Global Travel Bag 30L is a well-built, durable, and stylish option for overnights, short weekend getaways, and even minimalist adventures abroad. It’s also sold in a larger 40-liter variation for longer trips, although we found the smaller pack to be much more manageable. See the Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L

Best Budget Travel Backpack

5. amazon basics carry-on travel backpack ($46).

Travel packs are an expensive bunch, but Amazon makes an affordable but still surprisingly capable option in their Carry-On Travel Backpack. We’ll start with the good news: As its name implies, the bag is carry-on compliant, and it comes with most of the standard features we look for in a practical travel pack. These include a zippered laptop sleeve, internal and external compression straps, easy-access pockets for travel documents, and good organization in the main compartment. Like the Peak Design Travel Backpack above, the Amazon Basics can also be expanded to boost packing space while still meeting carry-on restrictions. And at just around $50 at the time of publishing (colorways vary on Amazon), the 40-liter Carry-On Travel Backpack is a great value for what you get, undercutting most similarly sized models on this list by $100 or more.

Now for the bad news: This Amazon Basics pack is far less capable than many of the picks here for shuttling a full load. The shoulder straps are lightly padded, while the hipbelt is a thin and basic webbing design that won’t feel comfortable under the weight of a full pack. The rest of the design has a cheaper feel, too, including a shiny and dated-looking exterior, a lot of plastic (read: breakable) components, and standard, non-lockable zippers. You don’t get dedicated water bottle storage either, which isn’t a necessary feature but certainly is nice to have. But if you’re an occasional traveler and aren’t yet ready to make a more sizable investment, the Amazon Basics pack is a perfectly serviceable entry-level option at a great price. For another capable budget design that comes with packing cubes and lots of colorway options, we also like Asenlin’s 40L Travel Backpack . See the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack

Best High-Capacity Travel Pack for Long Trips

6. osprey farpoint 70 ($230).

The packs above are great for vacationers and travelers headed out for a week or two, but those embarking on longer and/or gear-heavy trips abroad will almost certainly need more storage and capacity. Enter Osprey’s Farpoint 70, which comes with a 15-liter daypack that can be attached to the front to maximize capacity or used separately for around-town adventures once you reach your destination (Note: The travel pack itself is 55L). Importantly, both come well appointed: The daypack boasts a dedicated tablet/hydration sleeve and water bottle pockets, while the main pack has great cushioning along the straps and backpanel (it’s an Osprey, after all), a well-ventilated backpanel, easy access via the large front panel, and an adjustable torso system for dialing in a good fit. It's all wrapped up in a thoughtful and sustainable package, including recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics, along with a dedicated women's version called the Fairview.

All that said, there’s one glaring downside to opting for a larger-capacity design like the Osprey Farpoint 70: It doesn’t meet most carry-on size requirements. For reference, the standard domestic carry-on limit within the U.S. is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, while the Farpoint measures 25.6 x 15 x 12.6. Another complaint is that the daypack obscures the pack’s main compartment when attached, making it tedious to access your belongings. Even so, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more versatile and comfortable system for less (the daypack is a $65 investment on its own), making the Farpoint 70 our favorite high-capacity pick of the year. It’s also available in a larger 80-liter version, as well as smaller 40- and 55-liter capacities, although only the Farpoint 55 and 70 include the detachable daypack.  See the Osprey Farpoint 70   See the Women's Osprey Fairview 70

Best of the Rest

7. eagle creek tour 40l ($159).

Eagle Creek first started making packs in the mid 1970s, and their Tour 40L travel pack reflects that longstanding history in the market. From the get-go, we were immediately impressed by its highly practical design. The bag has great exterior storage, including a stretchy side water bottle pocket and expansion zipper for 5 liters of additional capacity in the main compartment. Additionally, the book-style opening provides quick access to the contents of the bag, and interior and exterior compression straps make it easy to snug things down. We also appreciate that it comes in two torso sizes (S/M and M/L) for maximizing fit, which is uncommon in the travel pack market and a really nice plus at this price point. And the cherry on top: The Tour checks in at a very competitive 2 pounds 10 ounces, which is tied with Topo Designs’ 10-liter-smaller Global Travel Bag above as the lightest on our list.

Other notable features on the Eagle Creek Tour 40L include side and top grab handles for easy loading and carrying, an integrated rain cover that stows away at the bottom and doubles as a backpanel cover if you check the bag, puncture-resistant and lockable zippers that are easy to operate even with gloves, and good overall carrying comfort. It’s not the toughest design out there—the water bottle pocket started to fray on our pack after just one trip—but uses durable 600-denier polyester elsewhere and is reasonably hardwearing overall. Final nitpicks include no pass-through sleeve for securing to a suitcase and a fairly bland exterior, but those do little to detract from the Tour’s otherwise well-rounded build.  See the Eagle Creek Tour 40L

8. Gregory Border Carry-On 40 ($190)

Like Osprey, Gregory is a leader in the hiking and backpacking markets, and their Border Carry-On 40 retains many of their well-loved technical features in a travel-friendly design. The big news here is the pack’s split-case design, which creates two distinct areas within the main compartment accessed via one large, clamshell-style opening. On one side, a zippered mesh panel with added zippered storage and compression straps keeps your clothing and some accessories organized, while an odor-resistant “ActiveShield” compartment at the opposite side effectively separates dirty clothes. As expected from Gregory, carrying comfort is also great with good adjustability at the sternum, a well-cushioned backpanel, and thick straps. You don’t get load lifters for bringing the pack closer to your body, but we didn’t have any issues, even when running through the Montreal airport to a connecting flight en route to Patagonia.

That said, the Gregory Border Carry-On’s split-case design does have a noteworthy pitfall: With both compartments zipped, storage feels pretty limited. Unzipping the larger mesh panel does help maximize space (especially when stuffing the pack to the brim), but it also defeats the purpose of the dual compartments. Compared to the competition, the Border also uses thinner materials than Osprey’s Sojourn Porter and Farpoint offerings, although the rest of the feature set stacks up similarly. In the end, it’s another comfortable and well-built travel pack, and the split-case design has its merits for those who pack light. See the Gregory Border Carry-On 40

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L ($350)

Travel packs are a dime a dozen in 2024, but Tortuga’s Travel Backpack 40L—which replaced their Outbreaker 35L—stands out as one of the most well-appointed and thoughtfully built options on the market. Organization is a clear highlight, including a large front pocket with several sleeves for divvying up small valuables and documents, a convenient clamshell-style opening with zippered compartments for separating clothes and shoes, and padded laptop and tablet sleeves with zippered mesh pockets at the other side for storing cords and accessories. Rounding out the feature set are easy-to-access water bottle pockets that can fit most standard-mouth bottles (our wide-mouth Hydro Flask was too big), zippered hipbelt storage that can accommodate a smartphone and passport, and lockable, water-resistant zippers. Finally, the design is well padded with thick cushioning along the backpanel, shoulder straps, and hipbelt, which is fairly uncommon among travel-specific brands. 

It's worth noting that the Tortuga Travel Backpack has a slightly more streamlined storage layout than its predecessor, although you do get an additional 5 liters of capacity and a bump in usable space. However, the Tortuga is no featherweight at 4 pounds 8 ounces, which is a notable downside for long treks through the airport and around town. It’s also tied with Matador’s GlobeRider below as the priciest on our list at a steep $350. On the bright side, Tortuga does offer a lifetime warranty against defects, and they will repair/replace the pack or refund your money if a replacement isn't available. All told, it’s a nice dose of added assurance and helps justify the steep price, but the hefty build and lack of value push the Tortuga slightly down in our rankings. For another well-executed design with all the requisite travel features, check out Aer’s Travel Pack 3 , which is cheaper at $249 but 5 liters smaller and doesn’t include a hipbelt with purchase. See the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L

10. Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack ($250)

Yeti's coolers and insulated drinkware are their bread and butter, but the focus on premium craftsmanship doesn’t end there. On the travel side, their Crossroads 35L Backpack is exactly what we’ve come to expect from the brand: excellent durability and functionality in a modern package. The body of the pack is made with Yeti's tough and confidence-inspiring TuffSkin nylon (which was inspired by motorcycle gear), while the PU-coated base adds a nice dose of assurance when setting it down. All of the other components have an equally durable and supportive feel, from the foam-heavy shoulder straps to the thick, protective backpanel. It’s all wrapped up in a sleek and streamlined design that’s offered in a nice selection of colorways, from bright Harvest Red to subdued Alpine Brown (shown in the photo here).

Yeti clearly put a lot of thought into the outside of the Crossroads, but the interior is well executed, too. The clamshell opening folds back to reveal a pocket-equipped mesh panel and generous main compartment that still can be accessed when wearing the pack. You also get dedicated storage for a water bottle and laptop, as well as a pass-through sleeve for securing to a roller bag. Our biggest gripe is the lack of padding: The detachable hipbelt is made of thin webbing and doesn’t offer much support, and the shoulder straps and backpanel have a noticeably thick and rigid feel, which is great for durability but detracts from overall comfort. And as with most Yeti products, the pack isn’t particularly cheap or light at $250 and nearly 4 pounds. Finally, the 35-liter Crossroads is on the smaller side and will require precise packing to fit more than about three to five days’ worth of belongings. But again, build quality is top-notch, and minimalists used to packing light may not mind the small sacrifices in comfort and storage. See the Yeti Crossroads 35L Backpack

11. Matador GlobeRider45 ($350)

Matador may lack the name recognition of brands like Osprey and Cotopaxi, but don’t let that fool you: This Boulder-based upstart is quickly growing thanks to their outside-the-box thinking. From their travel collection, the new GlobeRider45 stands out as a very intentionally built design that spares no expense in terms of features. In addition to being on the larger end, the carry-on-compliant GlobeRider offers solid comfort and support with good padding along the straps and backpanel, a light but sturdy aluminum frame stay, and a well-executed suspension system that’s reminiscent of a backpacking pack. Organization also abounds with a large external stash pocket, thoughtfully designed electronics pockets, vertical daisy chain webbing, and a practical interior layout that includes a packing cube-like space on one side and open clothing storage on the other. All told, it's an intriguing new pack that does a great job merging the utility of both backpacking and travel designs.

It's worth noting that we previously had Matador’s cheaper and lighter Seg45 ranked here, which boasts a unique segmented design that allows you to customize organization by day or activity. When unzipped, the five compartments at the front of the pack reveal independent (and stowable) storage cube-like areas for clothes and other soft items, while the main compartment below provides added space for dirty clothes, shoes, and other bulkier gear. While innovative, however, the Seg45 falls well short of the GlobeRider in carrying comfort, which is largely a result of the thin webbing hipbelt and lack of frame. The pocket-heavy exterior also made it hard for us to remember where we put certain items and detracts from the amount of usable space inside the main compartment. Both packs are arguably overbuilt for infrequent travelers, but the GlobeRider stands out as the more balanced option for those willing to splurge. See the Matador GlobeRider45

12. The North Face Base Camp Travel Pack ($169)

The North Face’s expedition-ready Base Camp duffels have long been popular among serious adventurers, and the Base Camp Travel Pack is a logical and carry-on-friendly addition to the collection. We found a lot to like about the pack during testing, including its burly and abrasion-resistant exterior and myriad storage options. We particularly enjoyed the Base Camp’s front pocket layout, which makes it easy to divvy up travel documents and electronics with a variety of mesh, zippered, and fleece-lined pockets. The smaller details are equally well sorted, from the well-padded shoulder straps and backpanel to the fleece-lined laptop sleeve and generous daisy chain system for attaching gear externally. Finally, despite being a little smaller than many of our top picks, the 35-liter Base Camp includes water bottle pockets that easily swallowed our 24-ounce Hydro Flask.

However, despite checking all the boxes for most travelers, the Base Camp starts to look a little less competitive when stacked up against options like the Eagle Creek Tour above. For $10 less, the Tour boasts an additional 5 liters of capacity and includes helpful additions like a hipbelt, load-lifter straps, and a rain cover—all for around a pound less. Another alternative worth considering is REI’s Ruckpack 40 , which costs the same as the Base Camp and is more capable of crossing over for hiking: The laptop sleeve can fit a 3-liter reservoir, there are attachment points for trekking poles, and the suspension system is more in line with standard daypacks. Depending on your needs, the Ruckpack might be the better option, but the Base Camp offers better organization for travel in a more modern-looking package than the Eagle Creek. A final note: Those with broader builds may experience discomfort where the shoulder straps meet the backpanel, but our narrow-framed female tester had no comfort-related issues. See the TNF Base Camp Travel Pack

13. Thule Aion Travel Pack ($200)

Swedish brand Thule is best known for their bike and roof racks, but they make sneaky-good packs, too. Our favorite in their collection this year is the 40-liter Aion, which combines the premium build quality that Thule is known for with a nice assortment of travel-ready features. One unique—but very functional—addition is the removable TPU rolltop bag for stashing dirty laundry, which prevents odors and dirt from making their way to the rest of your belongings. The rest of the design is nicely appointed, including dedicated water bottle storage, an easy-to-access clamshell opening, plenty of zippered spaces for electronics and valuables (including a padded laptop/tablet sleeve), internal compressions straps to keep items secure and tidy, lockable zippers, and carry-on-compliant dimensions. 

What pushes the Thule Aion down to a mid-pack finish? At this price point and capacity, we’re surprised to see that the bag doesn’t come with a hipbelt. You can purchase Thule’s compatible Aion sling bag separately, which can pull double-duty for around-town use, but it’s a fairly expensive addition at $50 (and a feature we consider critical for a pack of this size). To be fair, the rest of the build is very well executed, including a noticeably thick and robust 600-denier waxed canvas shell and PFC-free DWR coating for fending off moisture. If you don’t mind the added investment for the waist belt/sling bag, it’s a promising design with competitive specs to match. Of note, if you’re looking for something a little different for travel, the Aion collection also includes a roller bag and a 35-liter duffel . See the Thule Aion Travel Pack

14. Pacsafe EXP45 ($290)

Travel can be an exhausting endeavor, especially if you’re constantly worried about your luggage or valuables getting stolen. That’s why anti-theft designs like Pacsafe’s EXP45 are becoming increasingly common, particularly for international trips. Like most of Pacsafe’s offerings, the EXP45 is packed with protective features, from cut-resistant materials to lockable and puncture-resistant double zippers and built-in stainless steel cable locks. Importantly, these are nicely integrated and don’t detract too heavily from the Pacsafe's functionality as a travel pack—it’s still well organized with ample interior and exterior pockets and compression straps, offers multiple carry options, and is carry-on compliant.

That said, the Pacsafe EXP45 is a pretty niche design that prioritizes safety over carrying comfort and access. The pack is on the heavier end at over 4 pounds due to all the protective features, the padding along the shoulder straps and hipbelt is firm (albeit decently thick), and there are no load-lifter straps to pull the pack closer to your body. Another downside is that the laptop sleeve is positioned at the front of the bag—we prefer when heavier items are situated close to the back for better weight distribution—and accessing items here can be difficult due to the half-length zipper design (we wish it had a clamshell opening like the main compartment). In other words, comfort- and convenience-focused travelers will likely want to look elsewhere, but the Pacsafe has its place for those who prioritize safety and security. For a cheaper and lighter option that doesn’t skimp on safety features, we also like Pacsafe’s Go 44L , although frequent travelers will likely prefer the more premium EXP45. See the Pacsafe EXP45

15. Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L ($199)

Patagonia’s Black Hole is legendary in the world of duffel bags, and the Mini MLC 30L travel pack variation shares that bag’s excellent durability and good looks in a more organized and carry-on-friendly design. Like the duffels, the Black Hole pack is made of strong (and recycled) polyester ripstop that’s highly tear-resistant with a TPU film on the exterior for fending off precipitation. It also boasts the signature daisy chain webbing along one side for securing extra gear. Importantly, however, the travel focus is clear: You get three carrying options (backpack, over-the-shoulder, or briefcase-style), compatibility with a roller bag, and a generously sized opening with two separate chambers for customizing organization.

Why do we rank the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L here? The most glaring downside is its 30-liter capacity, which is undersized for trips lasting longer than a few days (unless you’re a staunch minimalist). Patagonia does offer a larger 45-liter variation for $40 more, although we found it to be lacking in structure, which caused the pack to feel noticeably bulky and cumbersome when stuffed full. Thankfully, both options feature the same well-executed backpanel design that we love, which comprises sleeves at one side for a laptop and tablet with zippered and drop-in pockets at the other for divvying up cords and accessories. Again, the Mini version is underbuilt for extended trips abroad but remains an excellent pick for commutes, daily use, and as a secondary bag for travel. See the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L

16. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L ($290)

Many of the picks above are built by reputable backpacking manufacturers, but Nomatic is a travel company first. Their Travel Bag 40L embodies that focus, combining thoughtful organization and storage with easy access in a sleek and minimalist package. Feature highlights include a customizable strap design that allows you to easily alternate between backpack and duffel carry, dedicated compartments for shoes and clothing at the top and bottom of the bag, and even a mesh laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate during travel. We also love the exterior pocket at the right side, which opens wide for easy access and features an array of mesh, fleece-lined, and zippered spots to organize electronics and cords, along with an RFID pocket for passports and other scannable documents. All told, it’s clear that Nomatic put a ton of thought into the design. 

It’s worth noting that Nomatic offers another intriguing option in their Navigator , although we consider the Travel Bag the more competitive all-around design. In parsing out the differences, the Travel Bag costs $110 less and is lighter by nearly 2 pounds, although it forgoes the Navigator’s expandable main compartment that allows you to alternate between 32 and 41 liters depending on your storage needs. The Navigator also includes load lifter straps and a sculpted foam backpanel for a boost in carrying comfort, but the Travel Bag is no slouch. And from a features perspective, we appreciate the Travel Bag’s dirty shoe compartment and included laundry bag. Those with smaller frames may have trouble dialing in a secure fit—our female tester (5’6” and 135 lb.) maxed out the Travel Bag’s hipbelt, for example—but the intentional organization layout and travel-ready feature set are undeniable selling points. See the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

17. Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 ($249)

Along with Osprey’s Sojourn Porter 46 above, Mystery Ranch’s Mission Rover 45 is a great option for those of us who aren’t particularly adept at packing light. Touted as a “workhorse gear hauler,” the Mission Rover offers three functional carry options (as a suitcase, shoulder bag, or standard backpack), has a well-organized main compartment with zippered dividers and a wraparound clamshell opening, and even includes separate areas for shoes and dirty laundry. As expected at this price point, you also get most of the standard travel-ready features that we look for, including a stowable hipbelt, lockable zippers, a sleeve to secure to a rolling suitcase, and a padded laptop space that can accommodate computers up to 15 inches wide. Finally, like many of Mystery Ranch's backpacking offerings, the Mission Rover has a premium feel with a thick nylon exterior and water-resistant YKK zippers.

However, as with the Pacsafe EXP45 above, the Mission Rover’s laptop sleeve is situated at the front of the pack, which detracts from carrying comfort and convenience. The Mystery Ranch is also on the heavier and pricier end of the spectrum at 4 pounds 4.8 ounces and $249, although the 45-liter capacity is undeniably generous (and the pack is still compliant with most carry-on size restrictions). Finally, the bag is relatively dated-looking and lacking in modern appeal compared to offerings from Topo Designs, Peak Design, Cotopaxi, and others above. In other words, the Mission Rover doesn’t stand out in any one area (hence our ranking), but it’s another durable travel pack with a nicely executed feature set. See the Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45

Travel Backpack Comparison Table

Editor's note: "Carry-on" refers to whether or not each pack meets standard domestic and international air travel restrictions, which must be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches when adding L+W+H.

About Our Testing Process

True to our name, globetrotting is a big part of what we do at Switchback Travel. Managing editor Sarah Nelson put together our initial list of 16 picks in 2022 after a trip to El Chaltén in southern Argentina with fellow staff members and gear testers. From takeoff to our return flights home, we put our packs through their paces by stuffing them to the brim with two weeks’ worth of clothing and gear, schlepping them through domestic and international airports, shoving them into overhead compartments and below our seats, and getting intimately familiar with organizational layouts for divvying up our documents and electronics. Upon our return, we also evaluated each pack closely for signs of wear like tears and stains.

Our current list of 17 picks reflects our own experiences as well as feedback from our freelancers, travel-savvy friends, and the online travel community. We continue to test travel packs on adventures near and far, adding and removing designs as the market shifts and as we get firsthand experience with more options. For example, on a recent trip to Chilean Patagonia in February 2024, we brought along two new-to-us travel packs: The North Face Base Camp and the Nomatic Travel Pack, both of which are now featured in the guide above. We’ll be sure to add any other standouts and favorites to the list above with each update.   

Travel Backpack Buying Advice

Size and capacity.

• Carry-on Size Restrictions

Organization: Pockets and Main Compartment Access

Carrying comfort, grab handles and alternate carry methods.

• Other Features

Construction and Durability

Fit and sizing, women’s-specific travel backpacks, sustainability, packing cubes and other accessories, do you need a travel backpack.

The first question to answer when choosing a travel pack is how much capacity you anticipate needing. For reference, the options above range from 30 liters on the small end (the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ) all the way up to 70 liters for the Osprey Farpoint 70 (with the 15L daypack attached). Most travelers will land on something in the middle, with the sweet spot for many being in the 40- to 45-liter range—it’s no coincidence that well over half of the models above fall into this grouping, which is largely due to their carry-on-compliant dimensions.   

In general, we’ve found that packs of this size can easily accommodate a week or two of clothing, toiletries, and other travel accessories (and even more if you pack light). For reference, we had no issues fitting 14 days’ worth of belongings into the 40-liter version of Topo Designs’ Global Travel Bag on a recent trip to Patagonia. If you stick to weekend adventures, you can keep things lighter and more compact (and save some cash in the process) by opting for the smaller, 30-liter variation. On the flip side, those embarking on longer expeditions abroad might need to step up to a larger design like the Osprey Farpoint 70 or 80 (at the sacrifice of carry-on compatibility).  

Travel Backpack Dimensions

Dimensions are a crucial consideration for most travelers, and especially those headed abroad. With that in mind, we’ve listed the length, width, and height measurements for each travel pack above both in the write-ups and in our comparison table . As you may notice, similarly sized travel packs don’t vary too considerably in terms of dimensions. This is mainly due to carry-on size restrictions, which we break down more in depth below. Carry-on Size Restrictions Right off the bat, we’ll note that there is technically no standardized size requirement for carry-on luggage domestically or abroad. That said, the universally accepted dimensions within the U.S. are 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches when adding L+W+H. We’ve indicated whether each travel pack above meets these requirements in our comparison table, and REI Co-op does the same on each of their product pages. The only exception above is the Osprey Farpoint 70 , which measures 25.6 x 15 x 12.6 inches.  

It’s also important to call out expandable models here like the Peak Design Travel Backpack , which is carry-on compliant when compressed to 35 liters (22 x 13 x 9.5 in.) but not when expanded to its maximum 45-liter capacity (22 x 13 x 11 in.). You may be able to get away with carrying these bags onboard, but don’t count on it, especially if you’re traveling during peak season to a popular destination. When in doubt, you can always check with your airline ahead of time.  

All of the packs above are purpose-built for travel with extensive organizational layouts and thoughtfully placed pockets for separating valuables, electronics, and other accessories. That said, some layouts are more functional than others, and a final decision will largely come down to your intended use and what works best for the items that you plan to bring along. For instance, sleek options like the Peak Design Travel Backpack and Nomatic Travel Bag are great for digital nomads and remote workers who need to organize a lot of electronics, while backpacking-inspired designs like Osprey’s Farpoint and Sojourn Porter offerings have fewer tech-focused features but work great for adventure travel. We break down some of the key organizational components below, from laptop and tablet sleeves to water bottle storage and pack opening styles.  

Laptop and Tablet Sleeves Laptop storage is a requisite feature in a travel pack, and all of the picks above come with a dedicated spot to stash larger electronics. In terms of dimensions, most sleeves can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop, and many come with separate smaller compartments in the same space for a tablet, too. This area is typically well padded to protect electronics and positioned along the backpanel for the best access and weight distribution (keeping heavier items closest to your back will help maximize comfort and balance). A couple exceptions to this rule are the Pacsafe EXP45 and Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 45 , both of which have the laptop sleeve at the front of the pack and can feel a little less well balanced with heavier electronics situated farther away from your body.  

Water Bottle Pockets Unlike laptop sleeves, side water bottle pockets aren’t a standard feature on travel packs. Some models that include them are the Topo Designs Global Travel Pack, Peak Design Travel Backpack, Osprey Farpoint 70 (on its removable daypack), Eagle Creek Tour , and Thule Aion, while the Cotopaxi Allpa and Amazon Basics Carry-On leave them out. And it’s worth noting that the Farpoint’s removable daypack is also compatible with a hydration reservoir, including a sleeve and access ports at either side for a tube (Note: This area on the daypack doubles as the laptop sleeve).   

Opening Styles and Access Easy access is a hallmark of a good travel backpack. The clamshell-style opening is far and away the most popular design and for good reason: With the pack laid flat, you can easily see and access the entirety of the main compartment. Some backpack-inspired designs, like Osprey's Sojourn Porter 46 and Farpoint 70, utilize generous U-zip designs instead, which are pretty functional but make it a little harder to reach contents at the very bottom of the bags. Finally, it's important to note that some bags come with multiple access points: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, for instance, includes both a full wraparound zipper and “shortcut” side zip next to the backpanel for easily retrieving items while on the move.  

Comfort can be somewhat subjective, but a few features help certain travel packs stand out from the rest of the market. Typically, the most comfortable designs boast shoulder straps and hipbelts with thick padding and good adjustability for dialing in fit. Sternum and load-lifter straps can also be very helpful in effectively distributing a heavy load. One brand that stands out in this area is Osprey, which makes sense given their expertise in the backpacking pack market. One of our favorite options for shuttling heavy loads over long distances is Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 , which features thick cushioning and good adjustability at the shoulders and waist belt and comes with load lifters for bringing the weight closer to your back.  

On the flip side, models without hipbelts are generally the least comfortable, especially when wearing them for extended stretches. From the list above, only the Thule Aoin doesn’t come with one, although their Aion Sling Bag (sold separately for $50) can be attached to serve as a hipbelt. Thin webbing designs—like what you get with the Amazon Basics Carry-On and Yeti Crossroads —aren’t much better, providing very little support and structure for keeping the weight of the pack on your hips (rather than your back). If you plan to be walking long distances with your pack through airports or city streets, we consider a well-padded waist belt a critical feature and worth the added investment.   

The models above are designed to be worn on your back as backpacks, but many travelers appreciate the ability to carry their pack suitcase-style or over the shoulder. These options are especially helpful when standing in line to check in at the airport or retrieve travel documents. For instance, the Peak Design Travel Backpack boasts 360-degree grab handles that make it quick and easy to take the pack off and carry it one-handed through security checkpoints or narrow airplane aisles. Designs like the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L also come with detachable straps for shoulder carry, which can be helpful when you need to access items inside but want to keep the pack off the ground and remain hands-free. Finally, many of the offerings here can be secured to a roller bag via pass-through sleeves, which we cover more below.  

Other Travel Pack Features

In addition to pockets and electronics sleeves, there are a few other features specific to travel packs that are worth having on your radar. Lockable zippers are fairly standard at the mid to upper end of the market (budget designs like the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack forgo them), as are removable and/or stowable straps and compression straps or dividers to keep things tidy in the main compartment. As is common with backpacking models, some travel packs also come with built-in rain covers that stow away when not in use, including Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L and Eagle Creek’s Tour 40L. Finally, many will appreciate the ability to attach their travel pack directly to a rolling suitcase via a pass-through handle or sleeve (like what you get with Yeti Crossroads 35L and many others above).  

Given the inherently rough nature of travel, all of the packs above are well built and hardwearing enough to withstand frequent use. That said, some are certainly more durable than others, and looking at denier (a measurement of fabric thickness) can help differentiate between models. For instance, the Gregory Border Carry-On 40 is pretty average with a mix of 210- and 450-denier (D) materials, while the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is one of the thickest and most abrasion-resistant options on our list with a combination of 1,000D polyester and 840D ballistic nylon (Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag uses a similar combo but with 1,000D nylon and 1,680D ballistic nylon). Pacsafe’s EXP45 is another standout, with stainless steel wire mesh built into the 400D nylon body to guard against theft. At the thinner end, Matador’s GlobeRider45 uses a mix of mostly 100 and 420D fabrics, although the nylon body is coated with a PU laminate to boost weather and abrasion resistance, and Matador included reinforcements in high-wear areas.  

Other durability-related additions to keep an eye out for are thick padding along the interior to promote structure and protect your belongings, weather-resistant details like YKK zippers and DWR coatings on the outside to fend off precipitation, and thicker materials at the base to help protect the pack when you set it down. And we should note here that cost often correlates pretty closely with overall quality. In other words, a budget pack like the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack feels noticeably cheaper than most other options above and will likely wear down far more quickly. If you’re a frequent traveler, it’s almost certainly worth investing in a pricier and more premium option that will last.  

The weight spread isn’t huge among travel pack designs, but even a 1-pound difference may still be noticeable during long treks across town or the airport. For reference, the lightest options on our list are Eagle Creek’s Tour 40L and Topo Designs’ Global Travel Bag 30L (both 2 lb. 10 oz.), while the Osprey Farpoint 70 is the heaviest at 5 pounds 6.6 ounces. Most models fall somewhere in the middle, with the majority of 40- to 45-liter designs hovering somewhere between 3 and 4.5 pounds. In the end, weight won’t be a primary consideration for many travelers, but those backpacking through Europe or expecting to cover serious ground will probably want to shop toward the lighter end.  

Unlike their backpacking pack counterparts, travel packs are most often only offered in a single unisex option. This can make it difficult to dial in fit, especially for those with particularly narrow or broad builds. One exception above is the Eagle Creek Tour 40L , which is offered in both S/M and M/L torso sizes, while a couple others (which we cover below) are sold in dedicated women’s models for better customizing fit. Regardless of which option you choose, we always recommend trying on multiple packs before buying to see which fits you best (or at least purchasing from a reputable manufacturer with a generous return policy). You’ll want to be sure that you can adjust the shoulder straps and waist belt to be snug around your torso and waist. Sternum straps and load lifters can also be helpful for bringing the load closer to your back to maximize comfort and weight distribution.

As we mentioned above, most travel packs are unisex by design. In fact, only one model on our list is offered in a dedicated women’s-specific version: the Osprey Fairview (the Farpoint’s counterpart). Key differences include varying colorways, minor weight variations, and slightly smaller torso and waist measurements. The Fairview also has more contoured shoulder straps and a curved hipbelt to better conform to narrower torsos/shoulders and larger hips, although the packs share an otherwise identical overall construction and feature set. Regardless of designation, we always recommend choosing the pack that fits you best.  

In 2024, it’s pretty common to see pack manufacturers incorporating eco-friendly practices into production, including measures like recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics and PFAS/PFC-free DWR coatings. A couple examples include Pacsafe’s Venturesafe EXP45, which uses polyester that's made from recycled water bottles and other plastics, and Patagonia’s Black Hole Mini MLC 30L, which uses recycled and bluesign-approved (i.e., environmentally safe) polyester and is certified to the Fair Trade standard. A final feature to look out for is a PFC-free DWR coating, which forgoes the use of per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment. 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 (for more, you can read about Patagonia’s take on the issue ).  

Packing your travel pack can often feel like playing a hard game of Tetris, especially for those of us who aren’t great at traveling light (this author included). To help, many of the brands above offer compatible accessories for their packs, from packing cubes to protective hard cases for electronics and more. Importantly, these add-ons are often modular and fit neatly into the main compartment of a compatible backpack. Some of our favorites include Topo Designs’ Pack Bags , Peak Design’s Packing Cubes and Tech Pouches, and Eagle Creek’s Pack-It compression cubes. In the end, these accessories aren't a necessary purchase for many travelers (and you certainly don't need to buy them from the same manufacturer as your pack), but they can go a long way toward maximizing organization and space and streamlining your load.  

The packs above make it easy and comfortable to shuttle your belongings across the globe, but not everyone needs a specialized design for travel. Duffel bags are another popular way to fly with a lot of clothing and gear, and many modern designs come with deployable backpack straps for more easily hauling through airports and around urban areas. However, duffels lack the impressive assortment of dedicated storage compartments and pockets for items like keys, passports, and electronics, are generally less comfortable to carry over long distances, and often don’t meet carry-on size requirements.  

Alternatively, some travelers may opt to use a standard backpacking pack . This can make a lot of sense when you’re traveling to hike, backpack, or embark on other adventures and plan to use your pack both for travel and for outdoor use when you arrive. Again, however, the lack of travel-specific features and organization options can make it harder to effectively divvy up your belongings. In the end, if you plan to fly domestically or abroad with any regularity (more than a couple times a year), we think most will find the investment in a dedicated travel pack worth it. Back to Our Top Travel Backpack Picks   Back to Our Travel Pack Comparison Table

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The Best Travel Backpack

By Geoffrey Morrison

A travel backpack easily carries all your stuff while letting you navigate airports, subway stations, and city streets. After traveling with travel backpacks for years across dozens of countries, we recommend the new versions of Osprey’s Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 travel packs.

These bags fit everything we need for trips ranging from just a week to months of continuous travel. They come with a sizable daypack and are even airline-carry-on friendly.

They’re also highly adjustable and well padded, meaning that not only can you get a perfect fit, but the packs will also remain easy to carry and comfortable to wear for long treks, even if there are stairs, cobblestones, or narrow alleys in your way.

Everything we recommend

Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Buying Options

Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Men’s)

Larger, for people with longer torsos.

Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this pack just as comfortable and easy to fit as any other we tried for people with longer torsos. However, it’s too big to carry on a plane.

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Women’s)

Larger, for people with shorter torsos.

Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this pack just as comfortable and easy to fit as any other we tried for people with shorter torsos. However, it’s too big to carry on a plane.

Upgrade pick

Salkan The Backpacker

More stylish, with more padding.

This attractive but expensive travel backpack has customizable straps and great, cushy padding. It comes in only one size, however.

I traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time. In 2023, Osprey released new incarnations of the Farpoint 55  and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 .

These new versions mostly kept what we liked about the previous ones and fixed what we didn’t. Best of all, they’re among the least expensive travel backpacks available. After several years as runner-ups, the packs are once again our top picks.

The front of the main pack still unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.

The best change: The main packs are now overhead-bin-sized for most airlines. (You’ll have to use the daypack as your underseat bag.) Other notable updates include height-adjustable shoulder straps and big exterior pockets on the daypack. Previous versions of these bags used ripstop nylon. The current one uses a heavy-duty recycled polyester, which held up well during a six-week trip across Europe.

Osprey offers a lifetime warranty.

If you want something a little larger than the Osprey packs, the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Men’s (for travelers with longer torsos) and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Women’s (for travelers with shorter torsos) are just as adjustable and comfortable. The Ruckpacks had been our top picks for several years—we now prefer the new Ospreys because they’re carry-on sized.

The Ruckpacks have a smaller daypack than the Ospreys, which isn’t as good for photographers and digital nomads, but the main packs are larger, which can be good if you’re carrying bulkier items like a heavy jacket. While not carry-on-sized, the main pack’s overall dimensions are still manageable. The Ruckpack 60+ is also a little cheaper than the Osprey packs.

The Ruckpacks are made from a tough, recycled ripstop nylon that stands up to wear. REI offers a return period of up to a year if you’re a member (90 days if you’re not). However, if the problem is a manufacturing or materials defect, the packs are covered by REI Co-op’s warranty, which has no specified expiration date.

The Salkan The Backpacker looks and feels like a higher-end travel backpack. The polyester cloth feels extremely rugged, and there’s extensive padding in every place the pack touches your body.

Available in black and lightish green, The Backpacker has nine color options for its exterior compression straps, so you can mix and match based on your preferences—or even change them up. This gives The Backpacker the most customizable palette of any of our picks.

While looking more stylish on TikTok and Instagram isn’t generally a primary consideration for us, overall The Backpacker feels well made, and it has many of the same thoughtful features as our top and runner-up picks, including lots of pockets, smooth zippers, and height-adjustable shoulder straps.

These are offset, however, by a much higher price. Also, the main pack is technically too large to be a carry-on for most airlines, and the bag comes in only one size. (Salkan says it’s best for people 5-foot-6 to 6-foot-4).

The research

Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: osprey farpoint 55 travel pack and fairview 55 travel pack, runner-up: rei co-op ruckpack 60+ recycled travel pack, upgrade pick: salkan the backpacker, the competition.

I’ve lived, worked, and visited 60 countries on six continents, as well as all 50 US states. I spent the majority of 2014 through 2020 traveling. Over the last few years, I’ve done a mix of extended road trips and multi-month international adventures. For all those years, I lived out of a backpack while abroad. I’ve also traveled in Africa, China, and throughout Europe with a variety of terrible backpacks and luggage, so I know what’s best to avoid.

In addition to covering travel gear here at Wirecutter, I write about travel and tech for CNET , Forbes , and The New York Times itself, and I have my own YouTube channel . My first travel book, Budget Travel for Dummies , comes out in January.

A travel backpack is for people who want to travel around the world unencumbered by heavy, slow-moving wheeled luggage. An internal-frame backpack in the 50- to 65-liter range has more than enough room for all of the possessions you need to travel anywhere for an indefinite amount of time—as long as you’re okay with doing laundry once you get to a destination. (If you’re going to carry heavy jackets, going-out clothes, multiple pairs of footwear, or other bulky gear, you may want something a tad bigger .)

A travel backpack is not for business travelers who’d like to maintain appearances, nor is it for outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend six weeks hiking in Patagonia. If you prefer something that rolls, check out our guide to the best carry-on luggage . And if you want something that you can carry on your back for shorter periods of time, that’s business-casual-friendly, and that you won’t ever need to check, see our review of the best carry-on travel bags .

Based on my experience and research, we looked for travel backpacks with the following qualities:

• Fifty to 65 liters, including a daypack: We looked at bags between 50 and 65 liters (including an integral, removable daypack). Packs this size can easily hold everything you need for any length of trip, while being small enough to remain manageable while you’re wearing it.
• Clamshell opening: For extended travel use, backpacking backpacks have annoying qualities, including that they tend to load only from the top and are sealed with a drawstring. This design saves weight and means there’s one less thing to break. But it’s a total hassle when you want something from the bottom of the bag because you have to unload and reload the entire pack. We looked for bags where the front zips fully open like a suitcase, making it easy to pack or repack and find things during your trip.
• A well-framed structure: A fully loaded backpack, even a small one, can easily weigh more than 20 pounds. My old Farpoint 55 usually hovered in the mid-30s, though that included a DSLR, three lenses, a battery pack , a laptop, a 360 camera , and other work-related gear. A fully supported internal-frame pack distributes the weight onto your hips, which are much stronger than your back and shoulders. If you’re going to be doing a significant amount of walking, you’ll want something with a frame.
• Durability: We looked for features to help the pack last, like some sort of cover to contain the straps (for easier storage on planes and trains), as well as lightweight and water-resistant materials.
• Plenty of storage (and separation): I’ve done all of my traveling in the past five years with a 55-liter backpack (which includes a 15-liter daypack). I tend to overpack a bit, but 55 liters lets me carry everything I need (the full list is below) for weeks, or even months, at a time.

Here’s what I usually bring for any length of trip (and this is our standard kit for testing):

• main pack (the command module , if you will)
• daypack (the lunar excursion module )
• pair of walking shoes or sneakers (along with the shoes I’m wearing)
• five shirts, one pair of shorts, one pair of jeans (not shown because I wear them in transit), one merino wool underlayer
• warm hat (because my head lacks insulation)
• five pairs of underwear, five pairs of socks, one extra T-shirt for laundry day, one bathing suit (I really recommend packing cubes )
• rain jacket in an Eagle Creek bag
• various adapters , camera batteries, chargers, etc.
• various toiletries, vitamins, etc.
• Osprey rain cover
• razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
• well-worn flip-flops
• travel towel
• portable Bluetooth speaker
• prescription dive mask
• merino wool jacket
• inflatable pillow
• smartwool half-zip midlayer
• sun hat (because my head hates sun)
• extra travel adapter for daypack (when the daypack is my carry-on)
• pen (vital!)
• a small laptop (a 15-inch MacBook fits in all of our picks)
• GoPro batteries and filters
• earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones
• Writer Emergency Pack
• USB battery pack #1
• USB battery pack #2
• backup headphones
• iPod Classic (because you can’t always stream music)
• USB charger
• Sigma 30 mm f1.4 (with a wireless mouse to its right)

For our first version of this guide in 2016, we narrowed our choices to 11 possible contenders. For that initial round of testing, I poked and prodded the different packs to sort out whether they had any obvious flaws or issues. I had adults of various sizes try each pack to get a sense of what short and tall people preferred.

For each subsequent update, including this one, I tested with similar methods whatever new or substantially redesigned packs were available. In between updates, I took one of our picks on some extended travels.

The Osprey Fairview 55 and the nearly identical Osprey Farpoint 55 have been one of our picks since the first version of this guide came out in 2016. (The Fairview is for people with 15- to 19-inch torsos, as measured from the top of your hip bone to your C7 vertebra, the one that sticks out when you press your chin to your chest. The Farpoint is for those with torsos from 17 to 22 inches long.) They’re now our top picks again, and here’s why.

You can carry them on the plane. Once you detach the daypacks, the main packs are now carry-on-sized, making them the most versatile travel backpack we’ve tested. Interestingly, the total capacity remains roughly the same as those of our other picks—that is, we were able to stow the same amount of clothing in this bag as we could in the REI Co-op packs and the Salkan . The daypack, in this case, would count as your personal item—on most airlines, this would mean you couldn’t also bring a large purse or a briefcase.

Or check your bag—your choice. The shoulder straps can be secured behind a zippered panel, so if you want to check the bag or put it in a packed luggage compartment on a train or bus, they won’t catch on anything. Doing this essentially turns the main pack temporarily into a duffle bag, complete with sturdy and well-padded handles on the top and side.

They’re adjustable. Like our other picks, the main pack has height-adjustable shoulder straps. This crucial feature lets you get an all-important personalized fit that makes carrying the pack for any length of time far easier. The straps were padded enough for our testers’ comfort (though not as cushy as the Salkan’s, and slightly less so than the REI Co-op’s).

They have comfortable, easy-to-use daypacks. The daypacks are roughly the same size, or a little larger, than those of our other picks, something travelers who plan to cart lots of camera gear or other daily essentials will appreciate. The top of the shoulder straps connect to form a sturdy handle, which is extremely, ahem, handy. Each daypack easily holds a 15-inch MacBook and is comfortable to wear over long treks. There are two large exterior mesh pockets for water bottles . Though the daypack is a little short on organizational slots and pockets, its comfort made it the best overall.

The backpacks are tough. The Farpoint and the Fairview are made from 450-denier recycled polyester, which feels thick and sturdy, though more “plasticky” compared to the Salkan. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.) I put the Farpoint through six weeks of train, bus, and airplane trips across Europe, and it didn’t show any signs of wear or breaking.

You can attach a lock, if you want. Unlike the Salkan The Backpacker, both the main pack and the daypack’s main zippers are lockable.

The backpacks come in more color options than our other picks. Currently, the Farpoint comes in black, green, blue, and grey. The Fairview comes in black, green, red, and purple.

The packs include a lifetime warranty. Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers repair of any damage or defect for life—or replaces the pack, if repair is impossible. If you just want to return the pack unused, you have 30 days.

It’s been a pick in this guide for seven years—and counting. I have put my money where my mouth is, so to speak. After testing this 2023 pack, I liked it so much that I bought one for myself, replacing an Osprey Farpoint that had been my go-to pack for years of travel.

It comes in additional capacities. If you already have a daypack that you like, the Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 are just the main pack from the 55 (they’re also picks in our guide to carry-on travel backpacks ). You can add the daypack later if you want. If you want more space and don’t mind checking your luggage, the Osprey Farpoint 70 and the Osprey Fairview 70 are slightly larger versions of their Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 counterparts—anything we’ve said about the Farpoint 55 and the Fairview 55 also applies to them. They would work well for those who want to go with the Osprey but need more room in the main pack for, say, clothes for multiple climates, bulky items like ski parkas, and the like.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The U-shaped opening of the daypack is surprisingly small, restricting access. You can’t easily spot things at the bottom or carry bulky items. On the other hand, this does limit what might spill out of the pack if you forget to fully close it, something that has happened to me several times with the old half-clamshell design.
• Previous versions of the Farpoint and the Fairview had large zippers that basically fused the daypack to the main pack. With this version, the daypack hangs off the back, secured only by the nylon compression straps. The straps loop through reinforced parts of the daypack, so it seems reasonably secure, and this new design does let you stuff more things in both packs—but as someone who carries a lot of expensive gear in the daypack, I’m less than excited about it.
• The pack isn’t as comfortable as the heavily padded Salkan. Osprey seems to have prioritized weight and breathability over padding. In warmer climates, though, this could be a good thing.
• Unlike our other picks, the Farpoint and the Fairview don’t include a rain cover. One is available separately, however. Osprey recommends the large size for the 55 L packs.
• The new design is slightly smaller than the old one, as well as being a little smaller than the REI Co-op and Salkan packs.
• Lastly, while looks are entirely subjective, the Farpoint and the Fairview are very much “backpack-looking backpacks.” The dark color choices are safe, to put it mildly.

The REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Men’s and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Women’s were previously our top picks, until they were replaced this year by the improved Osprey packs.

It’s easy to get just the right fit. The Ruckpack has well-padded and height-adjustable straps, closer in size and padding to those of the Salkan than those of the Osprey . Like the Osprey but unlike the Salkan, the Ruckpack comes in two models, one marketed toward men and the other toward women. The men’s model, available in black or blue, is for people with torsos between 17 and 21 inches. The women’s model, available in black or reddish orange, fits torsos between 15 and 19 inches.

It’s sturdy. The Ruckpack uses a recycled, 210-denier ripstop nylon. It feels similarly sturdy as the Osprey, though not as sturdy as the Salkan. Previous versions of the Ruckpack have held up well over time, and we’ll continue testing to see how the 2023 version wears.

It’s bigger than the Osprey, although the daypack is smaller. Capacity wise, there’s a bit more room in the Ruckpack’s main pack than in the slightly smaller Osprey’s. The daypack, however, is a little smaller. Which backpack works better depends on what gear you carry and how you want to carry it. If you have a lot of things you want on your person at all times, the Osprey is better. If you have more or bulkier clothes, and no camera or less-bulky daypack gear, the REI might be better.

It has more pockets than our top pick. These pockets are on the inside (three are accessible via external zippers) and the outside (on the hip belt, for instance). This is especially convenient if you want to quickly stash items or get to them without having to open the main compartment. And, unlike the Osprey packs, the Ruckpack includes a rain cover.

You will have to check it. The Ruckpack’s dimensions make it too large to qualify as a carry-on, even if you detach the daypack from the main pack. The main pack’s straps can be stored behind a zippered panel when you check your bag.

The main pack’s zippers are easily lockable. However, the daypack’s zippers don’t have the standard holes for easy locking. Instead, you have to thread the lock through the holes in the pull tabs. This isn’t a huge deal, but it’s an odd oversight.

REI has a good return policy. REI has a one-year “ 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed ” return policy if you’re a member (90 days if you’re not). This is not quite as epic as Osprey’s lifetime guarantee, but you should have enough time to determine whether or not you like the pack. However, if the issue is a manufacturing defect, you should be able to return it any time.

The Salkan The Backpacker is a higher-end travel backpack for people who want the comfort of our top pick but are willing to pay more for swappable design options and more organization.

It has more organization than our top pick. The capacity of the main pack is 45 liters, basically the same as that of our main picks . It has more organization and compartments than the Osprey packs, however. There are two large water-bottle compartments on either side and a laptop compartment inside, as well as several other small, zippered compartments. In addition to the main zippered hatch, the top opens with a drawstring like a hiking backpack, allowing fast access or storage. This drawstring design does allow you to stuff a bit more into the pack than the Osprey or REI Co-op packs. However, the main pack is technically too tall to be a carry-on for most airlines.

It has the best padding. The shoulder straps are well padded—the best I’ve seen—and height adjustable. The back panel and hip straps are generously padded, too. All this does make the pack nearly twice as heavy as the Osprey, though we’re talking only a few pounds (under 8 pounds compared with the Farpoint’s 4-plus pounds). For reference, the Farpoint, fully loaded with all my clothes, heavy camera gear, and so on, was around 35 pounds, including the bag itself.

You can customize it. The pack is available in two main colors: black and light green. In addition, the straps have complementary color options, including orange (shown above), pink, and maroon, plus five other choices. This allows for more personalization and flair compared to the Osprey and REI Co-op packs. Salkan also sells several accessories to go with The Backpacker, such as packing cubes, water bottles, and a laundry bag that attaches to the inside of the main pack.

It’s sturdy—but has not-so-great attachments. The bag’s 900-denier polyester fabric (even stronger than our top pick’s 450-denier fabric) is extremely strong and should resist rips or tears. What zippers The Backpacker has run smoothly, but the design oddly eschews them in key places. While the main compartment has a zipper, as do multiple smaller compartments, the main and daypack’s top openings do not, using drawstrings and a flap instead. These flaps are secured with aluminum “G”-shaped hooks (Salkan calls them buckles) that slide into nylon straps. The hooks feel nice in your hand and could well last longer than the plastic clips on the Osprey and REI Co-op packs. However, connecting them takes a few moments longer than using a clip or zipper would—time that adds up. They also feel less secure, like they could slide loose under load and movement. (These hooks are also what connect the daypack to the main pack.)

It has a great warranty. Salkan has a “ ‘No Landfill’ Lifetime Guarantee ”: “If there is something wrong with your backpack that shouldn’t be, then we’ll try to repair it, and if we can’t, we’ll replace it.” In addition, the company has a 100-day trial period within which you can return or exchange the pack if you don’t like it.

But it’s pricey. The Backpack costs much more than the Osprey or REI Co-op packs. While it’s arguably better-looking than either, this doesn’t add much functional difference. The pack’s comfortable, but so are the others. It’s adjustable, but so are the others. It comes with a rain cover, but so does the REI Co-op pack, and Osprey’s is $40. Is the Salkan’s extra cost and organization worth the better aesthetics? That’s not for me to say.

And we couldn’t attach a lock. There’s no way to lock either the main pack or the daypack. There’s no way to attach a lock to the “G” hooks. The nylon drawstrings at the main pack’s top opening, as well as the daypack’s, offer no practical way of attaching a lock. For such a well-designed and feature-rich pack, this is a surprising oversight. Is this a dealbreaker? Probably not, at least for most people. With the daypack buckled and the drawstring closed, it’s highly unlikely someone could reach in while you’re wearing it without you noticing. However, I frequently leave my pack in luggage rooms at hotels or the occasional hostel without lockers, and not being able to lock it when it’s out of sight would concern me.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide—just what’s still available.

During our research, we checked out a number of companies that make great packs, but none of those packs met all of our criteria. In most cases this was because the company specialized in top-loading bags, bags with wheels, bags that were too big, or very large bags that didn’t include daypacks. These companies included Black Diamond, Berghaus, Dakine, Eagle Creek, eBags, EMS, Ferrino, Gregory, High Sierra, Kathmandu, Kelty, Minaal, MEI, The North Face, Ortovox, Outdoor Research, Patagonia, Rick Steves, Thule, Timbuk2, and Victorinox.

The Deuter Aviant Access Pro has many of the features we liked, but its daypack is too small. The pack’s also more expensive than our top picks.

The men’s and women’s Thule Landmark 60L are well-made, sturdy packs, with a wide main-pack opening and most of the same features that we like in the other packs. They’re more expensive, though, and the daypacks aren’t as comfortable.

The Tropicfeel Shelter Backpack is a highly customizable pack to which you can add “modules” that expand capacity or change its use. It’s a cool idea, and the pack seems well designed, but it’s extremely expensive and doesn’t really add that much practical use over our main picks.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Geoffrey Morrison

Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .

Further reading

The Best Camera for Your Dream Vacation Isn’t a Smartphone

by Ben Keough

Packing for the vacation of a lifetime? Don’t forget to put a good camera in your bag. We have picks for travelers (and vacations) of all kinds.

The Best Tripod

by Erin Roberts, Arriana Vasquez, and Phil Ryan

If you want to shoot sharp photos while using a slow shutter speed, we think the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB100 tripod is the best choice.

The Best Portable Bluetooth Speaker

by Brent Butterworth

The UE Wonderboom 3 is the all-around best portable Bluetooth speaker because it sounds good and looks cool, and it’s the most rugged model we’ve tested.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

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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.

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Australia Travel Guide (Tips + Secrets • 2024)

When I ask you to think of Australia, what comes to mind? 

Do you dream of hanging out with bouncy kangaroos? Or, driving a van through the outback? Or, maybe your mind takes you to explore the big cities? Or, surfing epic waves along the coast?

All of this and more is possible when you embark on your adventure – backpacking in Australia . 

Whether you want to load up a van and hit the open roads or dive deep into the Great Barrier Reef; there is an Aussie backpacking itinerary that will suit every traveller. You just need to get clear on what you’re after and what this magical land down under has to offer you. 

Australia is absolutely HUGE (like seriously massive) and it is so diverse. From the bustling streets of Sydney to the wild outback; there is so much to see and do when backpacking down under. It can almost feel overwhelming! But I’m here to help you make sense of it all. 

In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know to make the most of your backpacking trip in Australia. From the best itineraries to the boring stuff like travel insurance – I’ve got you covered. 

So, without further ado – it’s time to head down under!

Why Go Backpacking in Australia?

Australia is a huge country with tons of things to do and see! From sailing around the Whitsunday Islands to diving in the Great Barrier Reef to road-tripping just about anywhere, Australia’s got it all.

It’s kinda a rite of passage for any backpacker to visit Australia. We all have that friend who went for a year’s working holiday and ended up staying forever… Why do you think that is?

The country itself is beautiful and there are so many different types of landscapes and wildlife, from croc-infested wetlands to sparse deserts and dense rainforests.

But more than that, Australia has some of the kindest, most welcoming, hilarious people. Anyone who visits Australia feels completely at ease.

There’s a relaxed vibe here. It can’t be described: you just have to go and find out for yourself.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Australia

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Below is a list of travel itineraries for backpacking Australia. They vary in length and cover the majority of the must-see places in Australia.

When I went backpacking Australia, I had this epic tour planned out. By the time I got to Byron Bay, I fell so madly in love with the people that I’d met in Australia’s amazing hostels that I had to drag myself away after already extending my stop twice. My only regret is planning too much.

I suggest really taking your time. If you like a place, stop for a while! You’ll be pushed for time – even with 3 months – and you’ll encounter places you won’t want to leave. But ride the waves, dude.

Here are some ideas for your itinerary. Just make sure to leave plenty of wiggle room for the enevitable.

10-Day Travel Itinerary for Australia: Tassie

This is the best itinerary for tackling a Tasmanian road trip! You can travel in either direction or pick a city — other than the capital city of Tasmania, Hobart — to begin your route.

Starting in Hobart, the capital of Tasmania. This is the capital city and it’s best known for its port which is the gateway to the Arctic. It’s not a very interesting city, to say the least, so you’ll only want to spend a day or so getting orientated before moving on to the next destination, Freycinet National Park .

What’s most notable about Freycinet is the pink granite peaks, the private bays, and white sand beaches. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some peaceful nature and wildlife.

Once you have had your fill of Freycinet, head over to St Helens , another big port city known for its deep-sea fishing. If you enjoy fishing, you’ll love it here. It’s also a good spot for diving enthusiasts, or if you just fancy lazing by the beach, the Bay of Fires is pretty epic.

Next up, is Devenport . This city is often overlooked by tourists as it’s just another port city, but because it’s so quiet you can really get a feel for Tasmanian culture.

Then, you’ll want to head to Cradle Mountain , the best place to visit in Tasmania for wildlife. Here you’ll see epic landscapes and also (if you’re lucky) Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna, wombats, and the black currawong.

Once you’ve had enough nature, head over to Strahan , the gateway to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and Franklin–Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

Once you’ve had enough of Strahan, head back to Hobart to head home.

2-Week Travel Itinerary for Australia: Sydney to Adelaide

See the best of Australia’s metropolis cities on this 2-week itinerary around the southeast coast! You could start this itinerary off in either ofthe major cities, Sydney or Melbourne . But for the sake of ease, let’s say we’re starting in Sydney .

The fake capital of Australia is home to iconic landmarks: Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Spend a couple of days getting lost in Sydney and enjoying some of the epic beaches of New South Wales.

Then, make your way south towards Melbourne stopping for a visit to Canberra . Canberra is a huge city that is most known for its government offices. Personally, I don’t think you need more than a day, but the journey from Sydney to Melbourne is long so it’s a good place to rest up.

Departing from Melbourne, travel along the sublime Great Ocean Road and earn glimpses of the stunning 13 Apostles and the Great Otway. Ocean Road is simply breathtaking.

It takes a few days to drive Ocean Road to Adelaide, so I suggest breaking it up. I suggest stopping at Port Fairy for a night and getting some rest here – it’s a small seaside town with not much to see.

There’s also a really great fish and chip shop here called Morriss Road Fish Shop and I had a great bacon cheeseburger… It’s the little things.

After spending a few days traveling on this road you’ll get to Adelaide , Australia’s most relegated and unknown big city.

Adelaide is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered! This city is saturated with artists, amazing beaches, and tons of wine. After getting your fill here, grab a plane back to Sydney if you’re flying out from there.

3-Week Travel Itinerary for Australia: The East Coast

This is the best itinerary for tackling an East Coast Australia road trip! Starting in Sydney, you should spend at least 1-2 days exploring. Take a day trip out to see the Blue Mountains National Park and marvel at the Sydney Harbour Bridge (or climb it, if you’re not scared ).

After Sydney, it’s a long road to Byron Bay , the most famous beach in Australia and a hot spot for surfers. Personally, I found the beach itself crowded and underwhelming – but I met amazing people and spent nights laughing harder than I had in years.

I went on to the Gold Coast from here. I stayed with family and it was one of my favourite memories. But unless you are a passionate surfer or love corny beach towns, it’s not a must-see.

Brisbane is a city that doesn’t get enough hype. I loved Brisbane and I cannot explain why. It’s just got a cool vibe and the nearby Gold Coast is simply stunning. I suggest spending 2 days in Brisbane, but no one would blame you if you wanted to stay longer.

Next, don’t miss Noosa , a world-famous surfing destination. If you don’t like surfing, you can also go hiking in the Noosa National Park and rock climb some cliffs. I met up with people I previously met on the road here and it was well worth it.

Next, you’re going to head to Fraser Island . This unspoiled island is a nature reserve and it’s definitely worth staying actually on the island if you can afford it. You’ll also find plenty of yoga retreats in this area.

You can’t swim in the ocean, but I tell you, you won’t want to because you can see whales swimming in the ocean right from the shoreline! Make sure to check out the abandoned shipwreck too.

After 2 days on Fraser Island, head to the Whitsundays , my favourite spot on the East Coast. The Whitsunday islands are untouched nature reserves, and you can only access most beaches by boat. This is a ‘take only photographs, leave only footprints’ kind of beach.

The sand is pure white and the ocean is a dazzling blue. You’ll never see anything like it. You could even look at it from up in the clouds by taking a Whitsundays and Heart Reef 1 hour scenic flight . You’ll see the kaleidoscopic colours of the Great Barrier Reef.

Next up, is Townsville . The actual town isn’t that impressive, but people often stop here to go to Magnetic Island. It’s also a great place to stop if you like diving and want to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

Finally, you’ll get to Cairns . This is one of the coolest cities in Australia, in my opinion. It’s surrounded by rainforests and expansive beaches and has a cool surfer-town vibe. Spend a few days chilling out here and then fly back to Sydney.

3-Month Travel Itinerary for Australia: The Land Down Under

For this epic trip around Oz, this itinerary combines all you’ve seen above, with the addition of a few small-town stops. This route for backpacking Australia is pretty big. If you buy or rent a car , you’ll have complete freedom.

Let’s start by the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns . Make your way down, through Queensland. Surf the Gold Coast , dive Ningaloo Reef , trek Kakadu National Park ; all of this and more is possible on this epic road trip through Australia!

Follow the East Coast itinerary to Brisbane , down to Sydney, then backpacker favourite: Melbourne . 

Adelaide , the most underrated city in Australia is the gateway to the outback. Catch the iconic Ghan train to Darwin. The train takes 24 hours – but not in one hit.

It stops in Alice Springs , a large town in the middle of the red desert. Spend at least 3 days!

If you fall in love, how about spending a month backpacking route for Australia in the Outback ? Visit top destinations like the mighty Uluru , Kimberly , and the Nullarbor !

Then, on to Darwin . Many people don’t know that Darwin has the most incredible sunsets in Australia. This coastal city has a relaxed, hippy-ish vibe and is where to learn about aboriginal history (being the closest spot to Kakadu National Park).

Head over to Broome , a beach resort town, west of Darwin. I recommend at least 3 days in Broome, bathing on the beaches lining the Indian Ocean, including the 22 km-long, white sand beach, Cable Beach. Venture into the wilderness or go looking for dinosaur tracks at Gantheaume Point. There are definitely a lot of cool hostels in Broome and some damn fine food too. 

After that, enjoy Exmouth for pristine beaches and glistening blue waters. Here is the best place to explore the Ningaloo Marine Park – full of thriving coral reefs and migratory whale sharks.

Perth is a huge city with tons of character. It’s a great base to explore nearby beaches and wildlife. It’s worth spending a few days before flying back to Adelaide to finish your trip.

As you can imagine, a country as vast as Australia is full of unique places to visit. Some major cities are spangly and new, like Sydney and Melbourne. Others date back to aboriginal times and feel strikingly different.

There is so much to unpack and discover that I can give you my favourite places to go in Australia. But inevitably, you’ll discover your own hidden gems.

Let’s take a look at the absolute most beautiful places in Australia !

Backpacking the East Coast of Australia

The East Coast of Australia, consisting of the states of New South Wales and Queensland , is the most popular backpacking route in Australia! The East Coast has some of the best infrastructure, greatest thrills, and most beautiful places in Australia. There is so much to do and see on the East Coast of Australia that we at Broke Backpacker had to create a separate East Coast backpacking travel guide to do it justice.

No trip to Australia is complete without a stop in this amazing part of the country.

Traveling 1500 miles from the ever-enchanting Sydney to Cairns affords travelers insane opportunities for adventure. You’ll navigate ancient jungles, go walking in the bush, and (of course) visit Australia’s damn fine beaches.

Some other highlights of backpacking the East Coast of Australia include camping on Fraser Island , sailing among the picturesque Whitsunday Islands , and diving at the Great Barrier Reef .

My top highlight was probably feeling freer than I ever had in my life before. Meeting people who you immediately click with and change your plans for. It’s a remarkable experience.

Those interested in backpacking around this part of Australia should best refer to our informative guide where I break down heaps pertaining to New South Wales, Queensland, and everything in between. This includes the usual subjects like accommodation , itineraries , and how to get around .

Note that this guide will also cover locations that are not bound to the coast including the Atherton Tablelands and the Outback . You gotta see the desert while backpacking Australia even if you intend on being a beach bum 99% of the time.

• Sydney Backpacking Travel Guide
• Byron Bay Backpacking Travel Guide
• Sunshine Coast Backpacking Travel Guide
• Cairns Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking Canberra

Canberra is the federal capital of Australia and has a rap for being boring as hell. Famously, one former prime minister wouldn’t even live there when he was in office (though he denied any feeling any revulsion to the place). Truthfully, Canberra really isn’t that bad – so long as you know what you’re getting yourself into.

Canberra is a planned community that was designed to be a “garden city”. For this reason, Canberra has an extensive amount of parkland, national monuments, and cultural centers. At the center of everything is the large and artificial Lake Burley Griffin , which acts as a sort of reference point.

Around the lake are Canberra’s most prominent landmarks including both Parliament Houses (the old and new ones), the hallowed Australian War Memorial, and several museums and galleries. The National Museum of Australia, National Gallery, and National Portrait Gallery are all fine cultural centers worth visiting.

The best way to get around Canberra is by walking or biking. Thanks in part to abundant greenery and lack of traffic, these modes of getting around can be quite enjoyable.

Take note that Canberra is still quite spread out. So getting around on foot is a day’s work in itself.

If you find Canberra’s parklands insufficient, then there are plenty more pastoral sights outside of the city. Namadgi National Park is the northernmost section of the Australian Alps and has lots of outdoor activities. Mountain biking, in particular, is very popular around Namadgi and the highlands of Canberra.

Ultimately, Canberra is a fine city to visit for a weekend . Those backpacking around Australia should come here for the bucolic scenery and small-town lifestyle.

Backpacking Melbourne

Sydney’s greatest rival is the super-dynamic and culturally superior Melbourne . Melbourne is the former federal capital city and, for this reason, was once the center of all things Australian.

Melbourne lead the way in economics, art, sports, you name it, until Sydney rose and began to challenge it. Backpacking Melbourne is a fun and interesting experience.

Melbourne is a huge city with multiple districts. Most of the top things to do in Melbourne are found around the city center – in the CBD and Southbank . The CBD is buzzing constantly with action: here are some of the best cafes, bars, restaurants, and cultural sites in the city.

Flinders Street Station acts as the central nervous system of Melbourne and provides transport to any and all of the metropolitan area. Very close to the CBD are St. Paul’s Cathedral and Collins Street, the latter of which is very fucking cool.

Other notable attractions, like the Shrine of Remembrance, Queen Victoria Market, and Federation Square, are all a short walk away from the CBD.

Further outside of the city center are many more districts that make for great day trips. Carlton is a neighborhood rich with Italian heritage and home to the impressive Museum of Melbourne.

St Kilda is the premier beach hangout and has a nightlife that is comparable to the debaucherous King’s Cross in Sydney. Brighton is where you’ll find the iconic beach huts. Finally, Collingwood and Fitzroy are the favorite hipster hideouts in an already hipster-ass iced-coffee kinda city.

Backpacking Melbourne’s pedigree cannot be understated – this is one of the coolest places in Australia. You just have to visit this city and wander amongst its laneways all the while sampling as much music, food, and drink as possible. Be sure to check out some of the best festivals in Australia right here in Melbourne!

As far as sick hostels in Melbourne go, everyone has their opinions. But my favourite is The Village . Get ready to meet a cool bunch of dirtbags.

Backpacking Adelaide

Backpacking Adelaide has had a somewhat dull and undeserving reputation. Just hearing its nickname, “The City of Churches,” leads your mind to those dreary choir songs that make people wanna go meet Jesus sooner.

Although, this nickname was never a reference to the city’s piety. Conversely, as an ultra-liberal city, Adelaide was a place of many places of worship and ideologies. In lies Adelaide’s true self: a forward-thinking and supremely eclectic city.

Adelaide or Radelaide has quietly been one of the best cities in Australia. Here is an amazing art scene, a thriving nightlife, and some of the best city beaches in Australia.

Oh, and did I mention that this is the wine country of Australia? You can’t throw a boomerang and not hit a winery.

Adelaide is a planned city – the first founded by freemen – and is extremely easy to get around. You can easily walk across the whole city proper in an hour or two.

A tour of Adelaide should definitely include a walk around one of the surrounding parklands, with lovely sights like the River Torres and the Botanic Gardens. For the best food and drink, look around the likes of Rundle Street, South Hutt Street, and O’Connell Street .

Adelaide has some of the best city beaches in Australia. Glenelg is a glitzy beach with lots of clubs and cafes. The most beautiful beaches though are found in the southerly suburbs around Brighton , Port Noarlunga , and Aldinga .

There is wine country everywhere outside of Adelaide. The Clare Valley, McLaren Vale, and Barossa Valley are the most prestigious regions and, between the three of them, produce the majority of Australia’s wine.

Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills is another popular pastoral town, known more for its beer and German heritage.

You could fly, but I reckon a road trip from Melbourne is the best and most rewarding way to get here. Driving on the Great Ocean Road is a must-do while backpacking in Australia!

You’ll see several prominent landmarks and attractions while driving along the 150 miles of the Great Ocean Road. The most famous landmarks here are the Twelves Apostles : a group of limestone sea stacks that rise stunningly out of the ocean.

It’s one of many great Australian road trips . But this is one of my favourites.

Backpacking Kangaroo Island and the Yorke Peninsula

Within a day’s drive from Adelaide are the seaside getaways of the Yorke Peninsula , The Fleurieu Peninsula , and Kangaroo Island . Between the three areas, there are over six hundred miles of coastline. Most of these beaches are hardly visited or even touched by any sort of tourist.

The Yorke Peninsula is north of Adelaide. On a map, the Peninsula is easily recognizable due to its distinct shape – like a large tail, leg… or willy (to some people).

Economically, agriculture – not tourism – is the region’s leading enterprise. This has, for the most part, lead to the development of several small rural communities, which make for great backpacker bases.

Popular activities on the Yorke Peninsula include surfing, diving, fishing, and sampling the local produce. The surfing here, in particular, is some of the best in the state. Must-see locations on the Peninsula are Pondalowie Bay , Innes Australia National Park , and Berry Bay .

Kangaroo Island is a popular holiday spot for South Australians and is fairly unknown outside of the state. Located across from the Fleurieu Peninsula, it’s Australia’s third-largest island and an important refuge for several threatened ecosystems.

With highlands, rugged coastline, and a number of pristine beaches, the natural setting of Kangaroo Island is some of the prettiest in South Australia. Flinders Chase Park , Admirals Arch, and the Remarkable Rocks are among the most splendid sights on the islands – and shouldn’t be missed.

Arriving at Kangaroo Island is a simple matter of taking a short ferry from Cape Jervis . You’ll find most of the hostels in the largest settlement on the island, Kingscote. Local farm stays are becoming increasingly popular and many resemble hostels in their offerings.

Backpacking Uluru and Alice Springs

Smack dab in the “Red Center” of Australia, leagues away from any other city is Alice Springs . Never before has the term “ middle of fucking nowhere ” been more applicable.

Originally an outpost and then a military refuel base, it now serves as a hub for visiting the many desert wonders of the region, including the famous Uluru , previously known as Ayers Rock , changing it back to its aboriginal name.

Uluru is one of the most recognizable sights in Australia: it’s magnificent. Honestly, words don’t do this massive red rock justice – and the pictures do little either. Uluru is meant to be seen and felt in person; only then will you understand its significance.

As one local told me: “you stand there staring at (it) and then it begins to pulse. Uluru is the heartbeat of Australia.”

Thankfully, tourists cannot climb Uluru with the restrictions in place right now. The local Aboriginal peoples, who hold the mountain sacred, adamantly requested and (at least for now) the battle is won. Many white Australians are respecting these wishes and you should too; walking around the base of the rock is still plenty enough.

There are other options that are equally as mystical and amazing like the Uluru Stargazing Astro Tour . You’ll get special access to the national park at night with an epic, unfiltered view of the cosmos.

NOTE:  Uluru isn’t actually very near to Alice Springs. You’ll have to drive 6 hours to reach it… That’s Australia for you.

There are a number of other hikes around Alice Springs aside from Uluru. Kata Tjuta aka the Olgas and Kings Canyon are both definitely worth visiting as well.

The actual city isn’t much to write home about. Those expecting a weathered and rustic outpost in the middle of the harsh Outback will be upset to hear that the Springs is quite developed.

This infrastructure comes with a number of positives and negatives too including plenty of awesome Alice Springs hostels, swimming pools, and rampant racial tension, to name an unrelated few.

Backpacking Darwin

Darwin is the capital and largest city of the vast and empty Northern Territory . In an otherwise desolate place, Darwin exists today thanks to the booming mining industry and the need to create Asian shipping routes.

By most standards, Darwin is a small city with very few areas and attractions. The Wharf Precinct , Bicentennial Park , and/or one of the few museums may be worthwhile – but that’s about all.

If I’m being honest here, my impression of Darwin is that it serves primarily as a weekend getaway for pent-up miners and a base for backpackers trying to find work. The parties are, predictably, over the top in Darwin as both worker and traveler let loose.

It’s also the gateway to Kimberly , a vast and wild section of West Coast Australia that borders the Northern Territory. Many believe that this region contains the best of Australia’s Outback. With an area roughly equivalent to California and a huge array of natural sites, the Kimberly is a grand Australian adventure .

The best part about backpacking Darwin is that it’s very close to some of the Outback’s best locations. Should you journey into the bush, bring excessive amounts of sunscreen and bug repellent: you’ll be miserable without them.

Kakadu National Park is widely considered a staple of the region and is a must-visit for those backpacking Australia. Ubirr , Jim Jim Falls , and the Gunlom Plunge Pool are among the best of Kakadu. Also worth visiting is Litchfield National Park , which is a lovely place full of waterfalls and swimming holes to cool off in.

Further south is the small town of Katherine . Here is the impressive Katherine Gorge , located within the Nitmiluk National Park . Travelers can experience the gorge in many ways from chartering a boat to paddling in a kayak to hiking along the rim of Jatbula Trail. That final option is a 4-5 day one-way hike.

Backpacking Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef

Of a similar vein to Broome is the small community of Exmouth , located on the remote North West Cape . Here are some stunning beaches, awesomely rugged terrain, and, most importantly, one of the most precious ecosystems in Australia: the Ningaloo Reef .

Like Broome, Exmouth is a quiet beach town that swells in population during the four-month-long tourist season.

There are the usual civilized amenities here i.e. hotels, restaurants, bars, markets, etc. Exmouth also has a couple of city beaches – Town Beach and Mauritius Beach – but these are kind of lackluster. Eager backpackers ought to head directly to Cape Range and the Ningaloo Reef.

Cape Range National Park has some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia as well as some great hiking opportunities. All of the beaches of the Cape Range are seemingly perfect with brilliant white sand and crystal clear waters. Some superlative beaches include Turquoise Bay and Sandy Beach .

Further inland, Cape Range has some wonderful canyons and gorges that make for great trekking spots. For the most popular hiking trails in the area, visit Charlie Knife Canyon, Yardie Creek Gorge, and Mandu Mandu Gorge .

Should you go snorkeling around Cape Range, chances are that you’ll stumble upon the beginnings of the majestic Ningaloo Reef . It’s home to some amazing marine life including whale sharks!

The coolest part about this reef is that it’s very close to the mainland. Unlike the Great Barrier Reef, which is 150 miles from Cairns, you can literally swim (safely) to the Ningaloo Reef from the beach in some places i.e. Coral Bay .

Having a watercraft will, of course, unlock, more of the Ningaloo Reef. There are a number of sailing companies around Exmouth and Coral Bay, though a kayak may be sufficient enough.

Backpacking Perth

Perth ‘s primary claim to fame is that it’s considered one of (if not the most) isolated major cities in the world. It’s probably a good thing though; if Perth were any more accessible then it would definitely be overrun by now. With a booming economy, an extremely pleasant climate, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the whole country, Perth is certainly in the running for the best city to visit in Australia .

Aesthetically, Perth is great for backpacking since it’s a very attractive city. The CBD , with its ever-growing skyscrapers, rises elegantly on the banks of the Swan River. From King’s Park , which is very charming in its own right, the cityscape is totally laid out before you and yours to take in.

Inside the city itself, there are a few tourist sites of note. London Court is a lovely street built in Elizabethan fashion, complete with Tudor-style homes and coat-of-arms on the doors; obviously, not the most authentic of attractions… but pretty nonetheless.

Also worth seeing is the redeveloped Elizabeth Quay , which is Perth’s answer to the Sydney Harbor.

For all its beauty, Perth is worth a weekend visit but, to be honest, the best parts are outside of the city anyways. To the north is Northbridge where you’ll find the best eats and nightlife in Perth.

Adjacent Fremantle is a separate destination in its own right (see the section below) and definitely somewhere worth checking out. From Fremantle, you can book a ferry to the idyllic Rottnest Island for the chance to see the smiling quokkas and some gorgeous beaches.

Speaking of beaches, Perth has some of the best in Australia. Scarborough and Cottesloe are the city’s most famous strips of sand. Mullaloo Beach and Pinnaroo Point are lesser-known but absolutely breathtaking.

Backpacking Tasmania

Off mainland Australia, Tasmania is Australia’s forgotten state – a bit of an afterthought that only evokes images of Looney Toon characters or barbarous locals it would seem.

This is for the best though as backpacking Tasmania is a true hidden gem. This is a paradise, with fantastic landscapes, eccentric people, and some world-class cuisine. Tasmania is one of the best places in Australia and no one knows about it!

Tasmania is an island state, separated from the mainland by the Bass Strait. The majority of the population (40%) lives in the Greater Hobart precinct, which serves as the state’s capital city.

Despite its separation from the rest of mainland Australia, Hobart is an awesome city carrying a similar vibe to Melbourne. Though not as big, there’s a lively undercurrent of culture to be found in its art and music scenes.

There are also heaps of awesome backpacker hostels in Hobart, and you’ll definitely meet some like-minded travelers for the onward adventures in Tassie.

Other settlements of note include Launceston, Bicheno, and Strahan , among other communes of varying sizes. Outside of these urban areas, Tasmania is mostly pristine wilderness, a good chunk of which is protected parkland or heritage site.

Tasmania is home to some very diverse geography. The interior of the island is very rugged, composed of jagged mountains and thick rainforests.

The coastline doesn’t disappoint either as some stunning beaches and bays here easily rival those of the mainland. So varied and stunning are the landscapes that Tasmania is often referred to as Little New Zealand.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Australia

There’s a lot of nowhere in Australia, which means that there are lots of opportunities to get off the beaten path. With the proper vehicle and supplies, you’ll be able to make your own expeditions into the lesser-visited places of Australia.

Some off-the-beaten-track locations you must explore are Oz’s most mental national parks : the Mungo National Park , known for its alien rock formations and large dunes, and Lake Eyre , the largest and lowest lake in Australia that changes color depending on the water level and salinity.

The Flinders Ranges are home to the Wilpena Pound , a huge, natural amphitheater that has to be seen to be believed. Coober Pedy is an old mining town that is famous for its swellings called “dugouts.”

The Karijini National Park is where you’ll find elegant gorges and breathtakingly vibrant rock, which makes this one of the most beautiful places in the outback. Speaking of Outback, you’ve heard of Uluru, but Mount Augustus is the real competitor. It’s larger but less prominent.

So as you can see, there are a ton of places to visit outside of the conventional. So get ready for some of the longest, bumpiest rides of your life as you go exploring the Australian nowhere!

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Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

There are so many things to do in Australia that narrowing it down to just ten of the best was no easy task. However, when you visit Australia, these are my top recommendations to leave yourself with some amazing memories to carry with you forever.

1. Visit Australia’s Outback

No backpacking trip to Australia would really be authentic without visiting the Outback. This is one of the harshest, most inhospitable landscapes in the world, and one of the defining features of the nation.

Some of the most beautiful national parks in Australia, like Karijini, are only to be found in the Red Center as well. Rent a 4×4 and go mobbing in the desert!

2. Witness Uluru

Uluru is a true natural wonder and has to be seen in person. Make the long journey to this shrine and feel the power that it emits.

I also recommend taking a camping trip and spending a night sleeping under the stars in a swag bag. Uluru is one of the few places that is not spoilt by city lights and so you’ll see the best night sky of your life.

3. Go Sailing in the Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday Islands are absolutely drop-dead gorgeous and are one of the best places in Australia! Sail around the islands and be sure to visit Whitehaven Beach, which is one of the finest in the world.

Airlie Beach is a popular beach and gateway to the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. I personally struggled to drag myself away from here. It was one of the biggest, happiest memories of my life, smoking a doobie, looking out at the ocean, knowing I’m going to quit my job and travel full-time as soon as I got home.

4. Drink wine in South Australia

Yeeeeahhhh boooooyyy. South Australia is the wine country of Australia and produces some of the country’s most highly regarded vintages.

Visit one of the many wine regions surrounding Adelaide and try as much as you can! Spit or swallow… up to you.

5. Dive in the Great Barrier Reef or Ningaloo Reef

Both the Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo Reef are amongst the most impressive ecosystems known to man. Diving in either one is sure to be an amazing experience. Enter an alien, underwater world, and be sure to have a waterproof camera !

6. Go surfing

Surfing is one of Australia’s favorite pastimes and is practically the national sport! Anyone planning on backpacking around Australia simply has to try and get on board (see what I did there?). There’s a beach for every skill level and plenty of Aussies who love to show you the ropes.

7. Road trip!

Exploring Australia by car is the truest way to really experience the country. With your own set of wheels, you can go wherever you want and sleep wherever you want. As they say in Australia, “ There’s a lot of fuck-all out there ” so go and find it!

I suggest starting with a road trip around Queensland . It’s arguably the most popular route in Australia.

It’s a huge country, so you might not get to see all of it by road trip. Just heading from north to south will take weeks. Choose an area you want to explore the most, whether it’s an east or west-coast road trip, and go and explore!

8. Discover Tasmania

Tasmania is one of the most beautiful places in Australia! This island is far more rugged than the mainland and is full of spectacular mountains, forests, and coastline. Journey here to see a different side of Australia.

9. Hike the beautiful national parks!

There are many incredible national parks around the country. The most notable are the Blue Mountains, Nambung National Park, Karijini National Park, and Kakadu National Park.

Located to the west of Sydney, the New South Wales darling is the epic Blue Mountains National Park. The town of Katoomba is the gateway to the park, and home to the world-famous Echo Point lookout offers panoramic views of Jamison Valley.

Here you get the best view of the iconic rock formation of the Three Sisters, a sacred Aboriginal site. As well as being an area of outstanding natural beauty, the park has several bushland trails and incredible wildlife.

The Nambung National Park is most well known for its impressive rock formations in the desert, plus there are some stunning beaches near Kangaroo Point and Hangover Bay.

Karijini National Park is a vast wilderness in Western Australia, well known for its Weano Gorge, accessible by a hiking trail that leads to Handrail Pool. Kakadu National Park is a huge wetland in Northern Australia and the best place to see crocs in their natural habitat.

10. Have a fling… or a few… 😉

Hey, Australia is FULL of young, sexy, liberated backpackers, trying to figure themselves out. The chances of you stumbling across other backpackers that you think are mighty fine is very high. Sex in hostels in Australia is inevitable!

Be a slag… do whatever you want. Be free, just please be safe too.

Australia is absolutely chalked full of backpacker lodges and hostels ! These are among the best and most entertaining hostels in the entire world. People from every corner of the globe flock to Australia to party and have one of the grandest adventures of their life, be it in a city, on a beach, or in the Outback.

Australian hostels are of very high quality and are often the recipients of numerous backpacking awards. Most organize lots of events from pub crawls to game nights to communal dinners. There are very few hostels in Australia that I can really speak poorly of (feel free to ask me though).

Couchsurfing is, of course, a very legitimate means of staying in Australian cities and is a great way to save some cash. Australians are an extremely welcoming bunch and have no problem inviting you over to their place for chicken parmy and a beer (or ten).

At the end of the day though, the best way to sleep in Australia is by camping, either with a quality backpacking tent or in a campervan. Australia has some of the most pristine and wonderful nature in the world and it needs to be experienced in the purest way possible. There’s nothing like sitting next to a fire in the bush and sleeping under the stars.

The Best Places to Stay in Australia

Not sure where to stay in Australia? Here are a few of my top recommendations!

Traveling to Australia on a budget is doable – if you know a couple of frugal tricks. If you can stick to a regiment, a comfortable backpacker budget in Australia should be around $60-$80 per day . Doing so means sticking to hostels, cooking at home, and drinking goon , amongst other things.

A bunk bed will cost between $15-$30 per night depending on where you are. More popular destinations, like Melbourne and Sydney, are more expensive while most of Queensland and parts of Western Australia will be cheaper. Naturally, solo travel in Australia is often more expensive than when you pick up a travel buddy.

Australian restaurants are usually pretty expensive with the average meal costing around $10-$25 . I strongly advise those that are backpacking around Australia to limit how much they dine out – the food is overpriced as fuck. You’ll save a heap of money if you cook for yourself.

Partying is EXTREMELY expensive in Australia . Seriously, there’s a reason Australians do all the drugs when they travel: they’re too fucking expensive back home.

Cigarette prices are ridiculous and a beer is $7 AUD minimum . If you must drink, buy the cheap and ubiquitous boxed wines AKA goon – these will be your saving grace.

If you plan on participating in any of the classic Australian adventures, like diving at the Great Barrier Reef or sailing in the Whitsunday Islands, you will definitely be paying a pretty penny. The only thing to do is just save up as much as possible and then pick one or two of your favorites to participate in.

A Daily Budget in Australia

So, how much is Australia going to set you back? Here’s a rough estimate…

Money in Australia

The official currency of Australia is the Australian dollar or AUD. As of June 2023, the official conversion rate for the Australian dollar is 1 USD = 1.48 AUD . The value of the Australian dollar has fallen in recent years due to economic changes but the country is still prosperous and expensive by international standards.

ATMs are widely available and pulling out cash via a foreign card is an effortless affair. Most ATMs will charge a withdrawal fee on top of whatever international charges your bank imposes. Best to take out lots of cash at once to avoid paying too much in fees.

If you’re working in Australia, it’s very easy to set up a bank account. All of the major banking corporations – Commonwealth, Westpac, NAB, ANZ – have basic savings accounts that are very convenient and easy to use for those who are on a working holiday visa in Australia.

If you had a job while backpacking Australia, definitely make sure to do your taxes at the end of the fiscal year! Backpackers are usually entitled to a huge tax return (for reasons that are hard to explain) and it would be a real shame to walk away from a big payday.

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends Wise – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks.

But the real question is… is it better than Western Union? Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips – Australia on a Budget

Australia is a country that can really eat into your wallet if you’re not careful, so make sure to follow these travel tips to save money and have even more fun.

• Camp : With plenty of gorgeous spots, Australia is a great place to have the right camping gear . You can also ask to pitch a tent in people’s yards. If you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Cook your own food:  If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food. I recommend bringing a  portable backpacking stove .
• Book your transportation early:  Both plane and train tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance. This rule does not apply to buses, which you can often book within the day or even an hour.
• Couchsurf: Australians are awesome, but always check the reviews anyhow. Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals. You can even ask (new) friends, or even friends of friends. This paid off for me plenty.
• Pack a travel water bottle : Save money – and the planet – every day!

Why You Should Travel to Australia with a Water Bottle

Plastic is a problem. It washes up on Australia’s most pristine beaches and wraps itself around its fragile ecosystems.

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you can be part of the solution and not the problem. Being a responsible traveller is getting easier and easier with the support of our incredible network of inspiring individuals and other backpackers.

Plus, buying overpriced bottles of water from supermarkets isn’t fun either. Travel with a filtered water bottle instead, save money and potentially another lovely, little dolphin’s life.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Australia has two distinct climate zones: a tropical one in the north and a more temperate one in the south. There are several microclimates found in each of these zones but, broadly speaking, they are still subject to the same sort of seasons.

Note that Australia is in the southern hemisphere. Australian summer ist from December-February and its winters are from June-August .

The south of Australia – New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and (south) Western Australia – has a more temperate climate and usually has four seasons. In some places, like Perth and Sydney, these seasons can appear very similar to one another as the weather is pleasant year-round.

In other areas, like Melbourne or Tasmania, the weather is more unpredictable and even harsh at times, especially in the mountains. Melbourne famously gets “four seasons in one day.”

The north of Australia, including northern Queensland, Australia’s Northern Territory, and (north) Western Australia tropical and only has two distinct seasons: hot, wet summer and cool, dry winter.

Australian summers – referred to as the big wet – can be oppressively hot and some places receive biblical amounts of rainfall. The deadly box jellyfish also comes closer ashore in the summer resulting in near-complete beach closures.

Summer really isn’t a good time to visit the northern Australia. It’s much better to visit in the winter – referred to as the big dry – when it’s slightly cooler, drier, and devoid of deadly jellies.

Since the north is almost always visited in the winter, demand is very high during this time. Prices will be much higher because of the short supply so be sure to keep this in mind while planning your itinerary.

What to Pack for Australia

If you’re not careful, Australia’s wilderness will smack ya to next Monday. Get your packing for Australia right! On every adventure, there are six things I never go traveling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Australia has a reputation for being full of deadly creatures that are out to get you at every turn: killer snakes, spiders, crocodiles, jellyfish, hell even kangaroos. It’s important to remember though that death at the hands of these animals is very sensationalized. Statistics don’t back up the hysteria.

Believe it or not, the common bee and wasp, not spiders, are actually the number one killers in Australia. The truth is: Australia and its wildlife aren’t nearly as terrifying as you think.

That being said, it is extremely important to take all cautionary advice with the utmost seriousness. If a sign or a local says that an area is dangerous, either because of sharks or crocs or whatever, then, for fuck’s sake, listen to them!

Australians have become day-to-day experts on what can kill you and how to avoid it. At the end of the day, just follow this easy advice: if you don’t see Australians doing it, then don’t do it.

The elements really are your biggest concern while backpacking in Australia. Not to scare you, but drowning is a risk in Australia as ocean currents are very strong.

The water may seem calm but, get caught in a wild rip, and you can quickly get submerged or pushed out to sea. Swim in designated areas and check signs for ocean conditions.

As mentioned before, heat is a major problem in Australia. Temperatures can soar to unthinkable heights and atmospheric radiation is a serious threat here. Forest fires caused by dry conditions are a serious problem as well.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Australia

Australians LOVE to party. At least once, we’ve seen a group of Australians getting blindly drunk and looking to score.

Some observers may have even thought to themselves: “how the hell are they still doing this?” or “for what possible reason would you do that?” Well, there is one, I assure you.

Drugs and alcohol in Australia are astronomically expensive. On average, a pint of beer is $7-$8 and a spirit is a couple of bucks more maybe. Cigarettes cost somewhere in the late teens; and don’t even get me started on the drugs.

These ridiculous prices are why you see Australians partying all the time outside of their country: everything is just so much cheaper abroad and so they go crazy.

Prices are damned though, Australians still like to have a good time in their native land. Many go out in groups and buy rounds or shouts for one another.

If you plan on drinking with the locals while backpacking Australia, it’s very important to keep up with the shouts. Drinking a beer that someone has bought for you and not contributing to the shout is a dick move.

Be careful when drinking and driving as well. Australia has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drunk driving and any BAC over 0.05% will be met with harsh punishment. Random checkpoints are commonly set up at all times of the day to pull over drivers and check their sobriety.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Australia

Traveling without insurance is never a good idea. It’s extremely risky. Check out good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Getting into and around Australia can be a long and arduous affair. It is a good opportunity to make the most of a layover – many of them being in the Middle East or Asia.

Traveling to Australia from the USA is a 13-hour plane ride and it seems that every Australian city is at least 8 hours drive away from each other; Perth to Adelaide is a 1.5-day journey by car. Should you decide to travel to Australia, you’ll be staring at the back of the seat or an empty road for a while. But the moments in between make the whole trip worthwhile.

Entry Requirements for Australia

There are several different types of tourist visas available to those who wish to go backpacking in Australia. The three primary tourist visa types are:

• Visitor visa (subclass 600)
• Electronic Travel Authority Visa (ETA) (subclass 601)
• eVisitor (subclass 651)

The 601 and 651 visas essentially function in the same way albeit with different application processes. The 600 is for those who want to stay in Australia for longer than 3 months at a time and for those who don’t qualify for either a 601 or 651. The grand majority of nationalities can apply for all of these visas online.

The ETA (601) and eVisitors (651) are the simplest and easiest visas to acquire. Both enable unlimited entries into Australia within the span of a year – the duration of stay cannot exceed 3 months at a time.

The biggest difference between these two types of visas is that they are only available to specific countries. Americans and Canadians, in addition to several other nations, must apply for an ETA. British, as well as most European citizens, must apply for an eVisitors visa.

The Visitor visa (600) is the most expensive of Australian visas but can grant the most time. Applicants can apply for a 3, 6, or 12-month duration at rates that vary from AUD140 to AUD1020. For any nation that doesn’t qualify for a 601 or 651, the 600 visa is the only means of entering Australia.

If you’re thinking of doing a working holiday in Australia , you’ll need to apply for a 462 or subclass 417 visa.

Upon arriving at customs, your visa will be checked and you’ll be subject to search. Australian customs takes declared items very seriously – so you must do so. Also, note that criminal offenses and felonies may bar you from entering the country.

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There are two ways of traveling in Australia and both offer widely different experiences. The first is by public transport i.e buses, trains, and planes and the other is with your own vehicle in the form of a rental car or campervan. The latter option is the vastly superior method.

Using public transport to travel outside and in between the major cities can be a tedious affair. Traveling by bus can be convenient and cheap so long as you’re staying on the East Coast where there are frequent stops.

Bus travel in the bush, which pretty much includes all of South Australia, Australia’s Northern Territory, and Western Australia, can be long and, in turn, pricey.

Greyhound does offer hop-on-hop-off travel passes that can certainly be convenient. Check the rates at the official website and weigh the pros and cons of purchasing a pass.

Train travel is possible but this is a more luxurious form of travel i.e. more expensive. Taking the train in Australia is an experience in itself though and some long-distance routes, like the Ghan Train , can be very rewarding.

Flying is the primary means of getting around Australia due in part to the country’s size. Flights are relatively cheap and actually quite convenient.

Traveling by hitchhiking is a common practice in Australia. Make sure to follow the usual rules of the trade though and, as always, use common sense. Be wary of hitchhiking in the Outback – cars may be far and few in between and you could be in real trouble if you’re stuck out there in the baking sun.

Traveling by Campervan in Australia

By far the best way to get around Australia is by having your own vehicle. There are many car rental companies in Australia that offer long-term contracts. Each has a wide variety of vehicle types from sedans to 4x4s to campervans.

Campervans are definitely the most popular way of getting around Australia as they provide both transport and lodging at the same time. Living out of a campervan can be convenient, fun, and cheaper than conventional travel. By having the ability to sleep anywhere you want, you’ll save money and get more out of your Australian adventure.

Thanks to the plethora of rental companies available, it’s a breeze to hire a campervan while backpacking Australia. Most offer good rates, especially for longer periods of time.

I recommend going with JUCY Campers if you plan on renting a campervan in Australia. Make sure to check the contract though – many rental companies impose certain restrictions on going offroading and over a certain amount of miles per day and charge extra fees for not following these parameters.

If you plan on staying in Australia for a long time (more than 6 months) try buying your own campervan. Doing this will allow you more flexibility and, if you took care of the car, the chance to sell it when you’re done. You can find ads for used campers in many hostels and on online boards like gumtree.com.au.

When buying a camper, be sure to take the vehicle to the shop to get it checked before actually committing. Most auto shops are used to this kind of request and will charge a competitive fee.

Onwards Travel from Australia

Being the world’s largest island and a continent that consists of a single nation, there are not too many ways to get out of the country by land or sea. Luckily, Australia benefits from some very, very cheap international airline routes.

You can continue your backpacking journey in Oceania , but the cheapest and most convenient flights out of Australia are usually bound for Asian destinations. Budget Asian airlines, like AirAsia, in addition to Australia’s own budget airlines – Jetstar and Tiger – make traveling to Asia a breeze.

From any of the major Australian cities, and for as low as $100 sometimes, you can carry on your backpacking adventure in the likes of Indonesia, Japan, India, the Philippines, and even Pakistan! Seriously, you can get just about anywhere in Asia from Australia and for a great price.

Since AirAsia is so ridiculously cheap and popular, you’ll most likely end up connecting in its place of origin: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Malaysia is a pretty cool spot and backpacking around the peninsula or on the island of Borneo is definitely worth trying.

Otherwise, you can get just about anywhere from Kuala Lumpur. If you aren’t connecting in KL, then you’ll most likely end up in Bangkok, Thailand, which certainly has its own reputation.

Asia aside, you can, of course, head across the Tasman to start backpacking in New Zealand . Backpacking around New Zealand is a very similar experience to Australia in that you’ll be paying the same prices and most likely living out of a campervan. Unlike Australia though, New Zealand has a wildly diverse geography and is much more temperate, both in terms of climate and native personality.

If you really want to go somewhere different, why not consider the Soloman Islands ?!

As a popular gap year destination , most backpackers need to earn a bit of money to continue their travels. They usually end up with fruit-picking jobs in Australia.

The work can be hard and life can be boring at times but the cost of living is quite low and those with a 417 visa will earn an extra year on their visa. If you can manage it, this is one of the best ways to have a working holiday in Australia!

Backpackers are so established in the fruit-picking industry and businessmen are in turn so reliant upon them that it’s usually very easy to find a job. There are dozens of online boards with postings for farm jobs in Australia. Some popular websites are:

• Gumtree.com.au
• Backpackerjobboard.com.au
• Taw.com.au .

When you arrive at your farm stay, you’ll probably be surprised. Many of these farms look like hostels complete with bunk rooms, communal areas, and recreations.

You’ll have to pay for a bed but the prices are very cheap. Sometimes you may have to sleep off-premises, in which case a car really comes in handy; otherwise, there’s always the bus.

You can make a decent living working on a farm. Most clear $600/week on average but a hard worker can definitely make more. Make no mistake though: this is difficult work.

Farming in Australia isn’t pretty but it can certainly be rewarding. You’ll become quite close to both the land and your fellow working backpackers.

Farm work isn’t the only means of making money in Australia. Some of the best jobs for a working visa in Australia include serving, nannying, cooking, and cleaning. If you’re really lucky, you may even find a job in mining. If you decide to work in the city, know that the costs of living will be much higher.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Working Holiday Visas in Australia

Several nationalities have the option of applying for an Australian working holiday visa, which authorizes travelers to work legally in the country. This visa is an amazing opportunity for anyone who wants to stay and go backpacking in Australia for a longer term.

There are two types of working holiday visas in Australia:

• A Working Holiday visa (subclass 417)
• A Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462)

(If you’re thinking to yourself how stupidly similar these visa titles are, I’m right there with ya.)

Both visas entitle visitors to the ability to work in Australia for a period of 12 months. Note that the possessor of a 417 or 462 can only hold a single job for a period of 6 months. Certain countries can only apply for a 417 or 462 i.e. the British can qualify for a 417 but Americans must apply for a 462.

To apply for either visa, applicants will need to show that they have at least AUD 5,000 in their bank account. Both visas will also require a bill of clean health and a clean criminal record.

Applicants for a 462 visa will need to provide some key additional details. With the exception of the United States, those applying for a 462 must provide a letter of support from their government.

462 applicants will also have to pass a character test in which they’ll need to prove that they’re of good moral quality. Usually, a certificate of excellence, like a diploma or special certification, will suffice for this.

The most important difference between a 417 and 462 is that possessors of the former can apply for a second year visa given they’ve met some criteria. Unfortunately, American citizens and other 462 applicants can only have a working holiday in Australia for up to a year.

If you’re finding all of this a bit complicated, Global Work and Travel can alleviate some of the visa complications for you. They offer working holidays and internship opportunities in many locations throughout Australia, both of which require the working holiday VISA.

In fact, they’ll support you throughout the entire process; from VISA guidance to finding you the perfect placement. You’ve got to be between the ages of 18 to 35 (30 for some countries) though… Apologies if this isn’t you!

Volunteering in Australia

Australia is volunteering gold – there are lots of different volunteer projects you can join whether it be teaching, animal care, agriculture, hospitality, tourism, or pretty much anything!

For finding gigs, you have several options:

• Workaway is crazy popular!
• Or WWOOF Australia is perfect for anyone interested in working on the land. Organic farms and permaculture are their wheelhouse!
• Most alternative sites to Workaway have oodles of options.

And of those alternatives, I have one favorite at The Broke Backpacker: Worldpackers!

Worldpackers like to put focus on community. They connect you with meaningful volunteering opportunities that really help you feel like you’re contributing to local communities. PLUS their platform comes loaded with nifty features for connecting volunteers too!

And for an extra saucy bonus on top, Broke Backpacker readers get a special discount of $10 – 20% of the annual signup fee!

Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER at checkout or follow the button below and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39. Make Down Under your stomping ground. 😉

Australians are some of the most welcoming, exciting, and unabashed people that I’ve ever met. They have so few worries and give so little fucks that life just seems easier in their presence.

Even immediate dangers, like an impending tidal wave or the jaws of a killer croc, are made insignificant by an Australian’s devil-may-care attitude. 100%, these are some of the coolest people that I’ve come across in my travels.

It can be argued that the Australian attitude derives from their inhospitable environment. An Australian is threatened on a near day-to-day basis either from deadly creatures, ridiculous climate patterns, or people that constantly need to remind them of these last two points. After a while, danger itself just becomes commonplace and desensitizing.

The fact that Australia is so geographically remote as well means that hardly any international presence notices – or really holds – Australia accountable. Combine this with the Australian’s grit and you have a population that just does whatever makes them feel good.

To be fair, Australians who live in their home country are a little different from the ones that you see traveling so much . Rooted Australians are still hard workers and seemingly proficient at any trade involving blue-collar work. The country didn’t become so prosperous because they constantly didn’t give a shit.

We mustn’t forget either that Australia is inhabited by more than just white people and immigrants. Aboriginal people, the original Australians, are also present in modern Australian society, though to a smaller degree.

Odds are you won’t encounter many Aboriginal folks while backpacking through Australia; if you do though, just be respectful, open, and treat them the same as any other Ozzie.

Useful Travel Phrases for Australia:  “That’s Not a Knife” Edition

The Australian accent is infamous and has been the subject of a million pop culture references. When asked to impersonate an Australian accent, most foreigners emulate caricatures like Crocodile Dundee or Steve Irwin.

Hate to break it to you, but the way in which many of these icons speak is either over-exaggerated or very demographically specific. Not every Australian yells “G’DAY MATE!” or puts so much twang into their voice when saying things like “like” or “right” or “fight.” These are cultural stereotypes and pretty unfair.

Australians use a lot of slang; so much so that sometimes it can be hard to understand them. You’ll catch on to the colloquialisms fairly quickly but, for a little extra help, I’ve included a list of some popular Australian slang.

• Ta  – thank you
• Arvo  – afternoon
• Bottle-O  – liquor store
• Mozzie  –  mosquito
• Thong – flip-flops (yep, not the G-string)
• Ute  – pickup truck
• Bathers  – swimsuit
• Sheila  – woman
• Chunder  – vomit
• She’ll be right  – everything will be fine
• Stubby  – can of beer
• How ya goin?  – a friendly greeting

What to Eat in Australia

Australian cuisine is heavily influenced by its colonial roots. English, Italian, Asian, and Greek styles are all present in modern-day Australian cooking to varying degrees.

Being a colony of the British Empire, Australian cuisine resembles most that of the English variety. Many staples like fish ‘n’ chips and meat pies are present in both. When dining out in Australia, expect a similar experience as if you were dining out in the UK. Australian food will be hearty, heavy comfort food.

Being a nation of immigrants though, there is plenty more than the usual English fair. Asian cuisines of every shade are present in Australia and are actually some of the best outside of the Asian continent.

Several Mediterranean cultures call Australia home as well and have brought their cuisines with them. Thank the Italians for introducing a strong cafe culture in Australia – coffee in Australia is surprisingly delicious and taken seriously.

Barbecuing is a very important custom in Australia and is perhaps the highlight of the nation’s culinary scene. Aside from the usual BBQ meats, Australians also enjoy the various grilled game.

Kangaroo is healthy and cheap. Other more exotic meats like emu, alligator, and even grubs are available in speciality markets.

Must-Try Dishes in Australia

Below is a list of Australia’s most popular dishes.

• Meat Pie – Pastry, meat… self explanatory
• Chicken Schnitzel – The German fave
• Kangaroo – the dead, cute, bouncy guys
• Vegemite  – a rite of passage – no spoilers
• Pavlova  – the dessert that hits after a BBQ
• Anzac Biscuits  – a little cookie treat for you sweeties
• Lamingtons – the cake you don’t need, but want
• Tim Tams – the old Ozzie classic
• Barramundi  – your new fave fish dish
• Emu – big bird, long neck… you know the guy

A Brief History of Australia

Aboriginal Australians arrived on Australia’s mainland between 40,000 and 70,000 years ago. Their traditions relating to music, art, and spirituality are among the longest surviving in human history. Before the arrival of the British, the number of Aboriginal people living in Australia was between 300,000 and 1 million.

In 1770, Lieutenant James Cook claimed the land for Great Britain, after the Dutch first sighted Australia in 1606. In 1788, a fleet of 11 boats arrived in Botany Bay to establish New South Wales as a Penal Colony.

Furthermore, convicts were sent to all states, but South Australia became a free colony in 1836. More than 162,000 convicts were transported to Australia from Great Britain.

Australia began to look like a desirable location after the discovery of gold and the kickstart of its economy. The Eureka Stockade at Ballarat, in 1854, was a rebellion against taxation. Some see this as a crucial event in the evolution of Australia’s democracy.

Chinese immigration began during this period with 50,000 Chinese establishing roots in Australia.

In 1901, a federation of all of the states, the Commonwealth of Australia was created. The creation of Canberra marked it as the capital city of New South Wales, with a temporary parliament in Melbourne.

The Australian and New Zealand Anzac Corps took part in the World War I Gallipoli Campaign, in 1915. April 25, ANZAC Day, was the same date as the first landing at Gallipoli. Australians remember and pay their respects to the sacrifices of their armed forces on this day.

After World War II and the Vietnam War, an influx of migrants moved to Australia. Between 1949-1974, The Snowy Mountains Scheme employed 100,000 people. 70% of these people were migrants from 30 different nations.

Today, people from all over the world call Australia home. The continent has become known for its equality and lack of clear class distinctions.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

No trip to Australia would be complete without taking on something new and exciting. If you’re tired of the usual tourist trail, consider checking out these unique experiences instead.

Trekking in Australia

Hiking, or bushwalking,  is one of the most popular adventures in Australia! If you plan on going backpacking in Australia, you must go walking in the wilderness for a few days.

Venturing out into the bush in Australia is like taking a walk through the nation’s history. Here is a forbidding land, full of harsh landscapes and bitter elements, the likes of which tested and tortured the original settlers.

Should you decide to brave these wilds, you will gain real insight into the Australian identity. To enter the Australian backcountry you will need to be prepared.

I always suggest getting a sturdy hiking backpack as well, especially so if you intend to venture deep into the wilderness. You’ll want the best you can find and not something that will eventually be held together by duct tape.

Below is a list of some of Australia’s best multi-day trails.

• Australian Alps Track (45-60 days, 406 miles) – Long and arduous hike that is only meant for the experienced or guided. Passes through the highest mountains of Australia. Requires food drops.
• Fraser Island Great Walk (5-7 days, 52 miles) – Walk across the entire length of Fraser Island, which is one of the most beautiful places in Australia.
• Larapinta Trail (16-20 days, 140 miles) – The ultimate Outback adventure! Fairly new trail and already one of the best in the country.
• Cape to Cape Track (6-8 days, 88 miles) – A stunning coastal walk that is conveniently located near Perth. Showcases some of the best scenery in the Margaret River region.
• Overland Track (5-8 days, 46 miles) – A walk through the finest mountain landscapes in Tasmania. Arguably the best trek in Australia.

Surfing in Australia

Surfing is as much a part of the Australian identity as kangaroos or shrimps on the barbie. Australia is extremely passionate when it comes to hanging ten and catching some waves.

Obviously, surfing didn’t develop in Australia by chance either; Australia has some of the finest beaches for surfing in the entire world and these attract thousands of surfers every year. You’ll have heard of the famous Byron Bay and its legendary surfing spots.

There are so many amazing surfing spots in Australia that it would seem more logical to note where you couldn’t actually surf. Everywhere you go there seems to be good breaks and swells.

Of course, you won’t be surfing in the Sydney Harbour or Melbourne Pier. But travel less than an hour and, boom, you’ll be right in the middle of some prime waves.

Below is a list of some of Australia’s top surfing locations. There’s a pretty diverse selection from all over the country. Though the Northern Territory is lacking in this regard.

Diving in Australia

Though the Great Barrier Reef on the East Coast receives the lion’s share of attention, there are plenty more options to go diving in Australia! Sprinkled throughout the Australian coastline are many gorgeous reefs, sunken ships, and sea caves that are just waiting to be explored.

These destinations definitely get far fewer tourists than the Great Barrier Reef and far more diving enthusiasts. You could even charter your own yacht and go snorkeling in several places along the East Coast if you’re more into snorkelling than diving.

If you’re really into diving, then definitely check out any one of these spots (that aren’t the Great Barrier)!

Backpacking the Outback

The Outback . The Bush. The Fuck-all Middle of Straya. The reason why most who want to go backpacking in Australia visit in the first place. Many have little clue though as to how large and how imposing this region actually is.

Few actually comprehend the Outback’s size or its conditions. That scene in the Inbetweeners Movie where Jay pisses on Simon’s face to survive springs to mind.

Though the exact number isn’t agreed upon, the Outback constitutes at least 70% of Australia’s landmass and is around 2-3 million square miles. The whole of India is 1.5 million square miles – that’s a lot of fuck-all!

Water is extremely sparse in the Outback. Temperatures vary widely depending on the season and time of year, from sub-zero to over 110 Fahrenheit. People die out here from exposure all the time. If you plan to venture out into the desert, you must be prepared.

The Outback isn’t a singular destination that you just include in an itinerary – it’s a collection of several desert regions that form an unfathomably large ecosystem. You can visit parts of the Outback but there’s no way that you could visit the whole thing; there are huge swathes of the Outback that haven’t even been charted yet.

A few of the Outback’s top destinations have already been covered in this guide, like Alice Springs, the Kimberly, and the Nullarbor Plain. The last remaining portions of the Outback are relatively accessible. These places are, of course, minuscule in the grand scheme of things.

Join an Organized Tour in Australia

For most countries, when you visit Australia, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travelers, you can opt to join an organized tour.

Joining a tour is a great way to see the majority of the country quickly and without the effort that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.

G Adventures  is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Australia for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Here are what people usually ask me about backpacking in Australia…

How much money do you need to go backpacking in Australia?

This is largely dependent on where in Australia you go, and for how long. But to be comfortable, I would try to budget for at least $60 USD per day.

Where should I start backpacking in Australia?

Most flights tend to fly into Sydney or Melbourne and both would make a great starting point.

What visa do I need to backpack Australia?

Most tourists who are visiting for less than 3 months will need an Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) or tourist visa.

Is Australia good for backpacking?

Absolutely! It’s one of the most popular backpacking routes in the world and it won’t disappoint.

I bloody love Australians, dude. Who else is happily willing to drink a beer from their sweaty shoe, just for a laugh? What a sick nation of people. 

It would take a lot of effort to really piss off an Australian. Time after time, Australians just roll with the punches (quite literally sometimes), and then proceed to take a piss and forget about whatever may have had a chance of bothering them.

That being said, it’s still important to act like a decent human being and to show respect. No one likes an asshole coming into their country and stirring shit up. 

Backpackers especially have been criticized because of their behavior and causing trouble. Let’s not be one of them dumbasses.

On a different note, be sure to tread lightly when it comes to interacting with Aboriginal Australians. They have been subject to unthinkable horrors in the past and are still treating the racial scars that are leftover. Though some White Australians still wallow in ignorance, Australia as a whole is trying to mend the gap.

Should you encounter an Aboriginal Australian and they’re open to conversation, be mindful of their customs and do your research on their terminology. Don’t take pictures or enter Aboriginal land without asking first. Be sure to speak using respectful language as well.

Other than that, have fun! Australia is a huge and diverse country with so much to explore and enjoy. No matter who you are or what you’re into, you’ll have a blast down under.

• Where to Stay in Fiji
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• Best Travel Toiletry Bag

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This is a great read. It’s so thorough and helpful. It is helpful to start planning my trip .Thank you for all the tips and tricks.

You’re welcome 🙂

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Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L Review

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L (V4) has fewer pockets than the 35L Outbreaker it replaces, though the gains in more usable space make it worthwhile.

Our Verdict

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• Main fabric is recycled
• Very supportive hip belt and comfortable shoulder straps
• More spacious than its predecessor at the same weight
• Adjacent compartments can rob space from each other
• Main compartment’s inner flap zips, unintuitively, in the opposite direction
• Fewer organization options versus its predecessor

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 112/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

Like the Look

Polled on Instagram

Weight (lb)

4.5 lb (2 kg)

Recycled polyester face fabric

Recycled ripstop polyester backing fabric

21.7 in x 13.8 in x 7.9 in (55.1 x 35.1 x 20.1 cm)

Notable Materials

Recycled Polyester, Ripstop Polyester, DWR Coating, YKK Zippers, Woojin Hardware

Manufacturing Country

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

Tortuga Common Decency Guarantee

Full Review

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The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L’s name doesn’t sound particularly impressive when you first hear it. However, if you dig a little deeper into this backpack’s history, you’ll see it has pedigree. Four iterations should do the trick, right? Well, that depends on what you’re looking for because they’ve made substantial changes to the Outbreaker it’s replacing.

The capacity has been upped by five liters while keeping the overall weight the same. Organization takes a hit in the main compartment, which is good news for those with pouches and packing cubes because fewer zippers and flaps get in the way, though not so much for those who want built-in options. To say that the Travel Backpack Pro 40L is more of an evolution than a derivative wouldn’t be a stretch, and that will become much clearer as we dive into the details.

External Components

One of the key highlights Tortuga is keen to show off in their new Travel Backpack is the SHELL200 fabric, which we find weird. We had no issues with the 1680-denier ballistic nylon of the first and second versions or the X-Pac VX21 of the third. These are some of the better materials you’ll see other brands use, and we really like them. So, what does the SHELL200 bring to the table?

Looking at its composition more closely, it’s a lot like X-Pac. Its three layers are laminated together: a 200-denier recycled polyester face, a 45° recycled polyester cross-ply, and a 70-denier recycled ripstop polyester backing. Yep, all of those are recycled, so you can bet it puts a smile on Mother Nature’s face. Better still, it’s waterproof, just like the X-Pac VX21 it replaces, yet at a lower overall weight. To put that into perspective, the Travel Backpack Pro 40L weighs the same as the 35-liter Outbreaker Travel Backpack. It may be the polyester that’s saving weight (VX21 uses a 210-denier nylon face), though we’re not engineers, so we can’t say for sure.

Visually speaking, the SHELL200 distinguishes itself as shinier than VX21 and ballistic nylon. It also has a crunchier texture, and it does make a sound. Overall, though, we like the switch since it doesn’t compromise on quality. Throughout testing, the pack has held up well, and it should perform well once you take it on some light outdoor treks since polyester’s quite abrasion-resistant. We have spotted some loose threads, although we’re not too concerned since that’s typical of pre-production samples, such as the one we have here.

You also get some of the usual goodies featured on other travel backpacks , such as handles. There’s one at the top and one on the right side. They’re small and well-padded, so they’re comfortable to hold. Admittedly, having just two handles is sparse, considering other brands would include a handle on each side of their travel backpacks. Fortunately, we don’t think more is needed, yet it may be a feature you miss if you frequently take your bag out of tight spaces.

You may notice from the pictures that a lot of the Travel Backpack’s zippers are of the AquaGuard-style, and, indeed, they are. They’re from YKK (so they’re almost certainly proper AquaGuards), which means they’ve performed reliably throughout our testing. The zippers don’t feel particularly stiff, even though AquaGuard-style ones usually are, so unzipping this huge bag won’t be a hassle each time.

There’s also a lone bottle pocket just below the side handle—those who carry their bottles can rejoice! Okay, maybe hold off on the confetti just yet. The pocket only has a simple elastic built-in, and the size isn’t that big. We can fit a 26-ounce YETI Rambler , albeit tightly. The Rambler isn’t a small bottle by any means, don’t get us wrong. However, if you’re carrying something bigger for long trips, like a 32-ounce Hydro Flask, you’re out of luck.

Things get more sophisticated once we get to the harness system. Each shoulder strap is on an adjustable panel that you can shift higher or lower. Other travel backpacks (such as the Salkan Backpacker , for example) have a similar system, and for a good reason. It lets you tailor the fit to how big your torso is and, combined with the load lifters at the top, minimizes the sagginess of the carry. If you’re wondering, the panel stays quite secure despite only using a (large) hook and loop fastener.

As for the shoulder straps themselves, they’re as well-padded as the ones on the previous Outbreaker, so there are no complaints. There are loops to keep the load lifters’ slack held down and an included sternum strap that slides up and down. The back panel shape gets a revamp; it’s now flatter and more evenly distributed versus the old pattern. All of the padding is covered in mesh to make sure air gets a chance to circulate and minimize heat build-up.

If you feel the need for extra support when carrying the Travel Backpack, don’t worry. There’s also a detachable hip belt with just as much padding as the shoulder straps. More than the padding and subsequent comfort, though, we like how they attach. Each half hooks on via a G-hook and secures using hook and loop fasteners—easy and fuss-free! Or at least easier than fiddling around with gatekeeper clips, one of our least favorite types.

As you can see, travel backpacks tend to have a lot of moving parts when it comes to their harness system because of their sheer size. Tortuga’s vision is no different, and between the load lifters, sternum strap, and adjustable panel, we can fine-tune the fit just the way we want. The result is a very comfortable carry that doesn’t overwhelm you with the pack’s 40-liter capacity.

The star of the show has to be the hip belt, though. It takes so much of the load off the back that, in some instances, you can see a gap between the shoulder straps and the shoulders—that’s how much weight it can shift, even with a fully packed load. Plus, pockets built into this hip belt give you a place to stuff everyday items like your smartphone or lip balm. They’re easy to reach and are a good enough reason to keep using the hip belt even if you don’t need the extra support.

Inside The Backpack

Starting from the front, you have a zippered stash pocket that covers about three-fourths of the area. There’s nothing too special about this pocket; it works as a multi-purpose spot for dumping a bunch of gear. Keep in mind that the opening is towards the left side, so items can fall out if you open it while the pack stands.

The pocket is a bit large for small accessories like some apartment keys or earphones. It’s better suited for bulkier items like a pair of winter gloves or a buff. Fortunately, another pocket at the front is more suitable for smaller items, and it’s located along the top. This pocket is shallower yet easier to access, and it even comes with a built-in key clip where you can put your keys away while you’re on vacation. Extra credit to Tortuga for using quite a bright liner for the interior here; it always makes searching for gear easier.

The next zipper behind the top front pocket is for the admin compartment, where the bulk of the Travel Backpack’s more granular organization options resides. You can fold down the entire front compartment to get better access to the interior, and you might want to since there is a bunch of space available below the fold. However, beware that packing anything stiff in the front pockets we discussed earlier may prevent you from doing this.

Back to those organization options. From the left, you have four horizontal card slots, two pen pockets, and a mesh pocket. Right behind those are a small tablet pocket fit for a Kindle, and below, there’s a wide and shallow zippered pocket. Its shallowness is a good thing because gear would otherwise sink to the deep end of the admin compartment, where they’d be hard to reach.

There is a lot of room down there. We can hide a toiletry bag as large as the GOT BAG Shower Bag , so you shouldn’t have much trouble stuffing slim tech pouches, too. As for the organization option, we like the balanced approach Tortuga takes here since there’s a little bit of everything for cards, tech accessories, a small tablet, and a ton of room for one or two pouches in case you want even more organization.

We’re skipping the main compartment to look at the laptop compartment at the back. Unfortunately, this part has taken a small downgrade from the old one; it only opens in a limited horseshoe style instead of a full clamshell. Some may find that disappointing, although it’s more than enough access for us.

Inside, a wide and shallow zippered pocket works well for tech accessories like your laptop’s charger, mouse, and a small tech pouch. The laptop sleeve is lined with soft fleece and can fit a 16-inch MacBook Pro without a hitch. There’s also a substantial false bottom, in case you were wondering. Lastly, there’s also a tablet pocket in front of the laptop sleeve, which we use to store a travel-sized keyboard, because that’s just how we roll.

If you’re coming from the Outbreaker Travel Backpack 35L and expect to find the same level of organization in the main compartment, you might be disappointed. Gone are the side pockets and two mesh pockets on the cover side; the main compartment is just empty space. It’s not a big deal for those who are approaching the Travel Backpack as their first one or if you’ve already invested in pouches and packing cubes . On the other hand, there’s undoubtedly less organization here versus its predecessor.

Granted, there is a lot of room for those packing cubes. We never felt that the Travel Backpack lacked space. A zippered flap hides even more space on the cover side of the main compartment. It’s a good spot to hide away neatly folded shirts. In our case, though, we use it for dirty clothing. The main problem here is that the flap zips open in the opposite direction of the main compartment’s zipper. Instead of following the edges, it zips from the edge and down toward the hinge, which is unintuitive and really catches us off guard whenever we want to quickly get at whatever’s inside it. That said, it’s a small inconvenience, and it does prevent your gear from falling out of the pack if you forget to close that zipper, so it’s up to you if this is a dealbreaker.

While space isn’t an issue with the Travel Backpack per se, packing it does require some strategizing. Adjacent compartments tend to bulge into one another, thus robbing space. For example, you can feel the top zippered pocket in the laptop compartment inside the main compartment. Bulky items in the front stash pocket can also bulge in here. We’ve seen worse examples of this, though it’s worth noting for the Travel Backpack if you want the most efficient use of space.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

• Materials feel durable
• Satisfying built-in organization
• Digging the adjustable harness system
• A few loose threads, but we’ll chalk that up to being a pre-production sample
• Really digging that each pocket is roomy, though they can compete for space when packed out fully
• Material is still in great shape

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The 5 Best Anti-theft Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested the best anti-theft backpacks out there to find the most secure options for every traveler.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked

Other Products You May Need

• 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 / Conor Ralph

If a backpack is your preferred way to tote your belongings, you might want to invest in an anti-theft model. But what makes a backpack "anti-theft"? A few things. First, most are made with an extra-tough, anti-slash material that makes it extremely difficult for would-be thieves to cut their way inside your bag. Second, the zippers are usually hidden by flaps, so it often looks like there's no way into the bag. Finally, many anti-theft backpacks come with tools like locking cables, combination locks, and RFID-blocking technology (about which we provide more detail later).

We tested 14 anti-theft backpacks in our product testing lab and in the real world, putting their security features to the test by attempting to cut through exteriors and identify and break through locks and zippers. Our favorite bags were durable, comfortable to wear, and didn't draw attention to users.

Best Overall

Pacsafe anti-theft backpack.

The handles and straps are well padded, so it's comfortable to carry both as a backpack and a weekender bag.

It's a bit heavier than some of the other backpacks we tested.

With a 45-liter capacity, this backpack—the highest scorer on our tests—is big enough to replace your carry-on yet comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time. All the straps and handles are well cushioned for comfort on shoulders and hands, and it has hip and chest belts to distribute weight. Buyers will want to keep in mind that this is not so much a day-to-day pack as it is a piece for extended trips or even backpacking.

The bag has a lot of great anti-theft features, including four lockable zippers, a stainless steel locking cable that you can attach to any fixture (lock not included), and cut-resistant materials. Lock the zippers by connecting the zippers to each other, then hooking them onto a built-in clasp (there's also a flap that obscures the zippers and clasp). During the slash test, we found that the bag shows cuts, but it's not easy to get into with a knife. This combination of security features makes it nearly impossible to access the bag when worn, providing peace of mind—though, of course, that also means there isn't a great way for the wearer to quickly access items inside.

Our testers found plenty more to love. There are lots of pockets, including a large zip mesh pocket, a medium-sized zip mesh pocket, a medium-sized nylon pocket, a nylon pocket for pens/pencils, and a medium-sized nylon bag for the locking cable. A Velcro laptop sleeve fits a 13-inch MacBook with room to spare, and there's a side pocket for a water bottle. The bag also has external attachment points for a sleeping bag or jacket. A 270-degree clamshell opening makes it easy to pack—our testers estimate that efficient packers could fit somewhere between one to two weeks' worth of clothes inside.

It's a bit heavy, but that's to be expected for the size. And testers did note that the zipper lock has a learning curve, so buyers should make time to practice before using it on a trip.

The Details: 21.7 x 13.8 x 8.7 inches | 3 pounds, 13 ounces | 45 liters | Nylon and polyester | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Budget

Ambor laptop backpack.

It's quite roomy and has plenty of pockets for organization.

The material is not as tough as that of other anti-theft backpacks.

This affordable backpack features a built-in three-digit combination zipper lock, and there's a hidden pocket on the back that can only be accessed when the bag isn't being worn. The exterior however is not slash-proof, which makes sense given the lower price when compared to other backpacks on this list. Our testers loved how spacious this bag is and noted how the number of pockets makes it easy to organize belongings. That includes a large laptop pocket, plus a smaller padded pocket for a tablet. Compression straps on the sides also help pack things down more tightly. And the pack comes with a built-in USB cord for a powerbank.

We appreciate the padded straps and back, which make it comfortable to carry, and love the sleeve on the back that travelers can slide over a suitcase handle. With laptop and tablet compartments, a built-in USB cord, and several pockets for organizing, this roomy bag is a great value purchase that can securely hold all your essentials.

The Details: 19.1 x 11.6 x 7.5 inches | 1 pound, 10 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Best for Outdoor Adventure

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

We found plenty of options for expanding and compressing the bag to our packing style.

The locking zippers may be too complicated for some travelers.

This huge pack almost has too many features, including locking zippers guaranteed to protect against theft while traveling. At 45 liters, the bag is designed for backpackers or long-term travelers and can carry everything you need from clothing to gear to laptops. It also features "pickpocket-proof" zippers on all compartments, so you can hide zippers and prevent theft. For extra durability, the pack is also weatherproof, made from nylon canvas derived from recycled materials. Our testers loved how easy this bag was to pack and how many pockets are included. With custom-fitted Peak Design packing cubes , this anti-theft backpack can easily be your new go-to carry-on or hiking pack.

The Details: 22 x 11 x 13 inches | 4 pounds, 8 ounces | 45 liters | Nylon and polyester | Waterproof

Best for Business Travel

Pacsafe metrosafe ls350 daypack.

Thoughtful organizational features like a hidden clip for wallet or keys make it stand out.

The straps could be a little easier to adjust.

Our testers loved this bag. It has it all: padded shoulder straps and back, a zipper lock to protect your belongings from casual pickpocketing, and enough space to fit your travel essentials. There's a small, lockable hook for you to attach the bag to any fixture, say a hotel bed or table leg, and it has a hidden clip for a wallet or keys. In the main compartment is a 15-inch laptop pocket; the smaller compartment has a large zip mesh pouch, padded pockets, and three nylon pockets of varying sizes. The back has soft foam padding.

When we ran a slash through the bottom, the outermost layer of fabric did tear, but we just met foam; even though the textile cuts easily, the mesh prevented us from cutting a hole wide enough for things to fall out. A few slight nitpicks: the water bottle pockets are very tight, making it difficult to get a 20-ounce bottle to fit, and the main compartment zipper occasionally caught on the inside of the bag. The straps could have been slightly easier to adjust as well. But good performance on our comfort, organization, and anti-theft property tests make this one highly recommended.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.6 x 5.1 inches | 1 pound, 7.4 ounces | 15 liters | Nylon and polyester | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Connor Ralph

Best Lightweight

Kopack laptop backpack.

The interior organization features are outstanding, and the exterior held up particularly well during our slash test.

It's very hard to fit a water bottle in the side pouch, and there are no zipper locks.

This bag is tied for the lightest on our list, which is particularly impressive considering the amount of interior organization: three medium-sized pockets, three card pockets, and two pencil pockets in the front compartment; meanwhile, the main compartment features two passport-sized pockets and a laptop compartment that can fit a 13-inch MacBook. Our testers appreciated how the straps fit over the zipper leading into the laptop compartment so that it can't be opened up while you're wearing it. We also like the built-in USB cord for connection to a power bank and external charging.

The bag held up particularly well during our slash test: There were no marks after our initial swipes with a box cutter (though it can be cut with more effort). However, buyers should note that there are no zipper locks.

The Details: 17.7 x 11.8 x 4.3 inches | 1 pound, 8 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

We tested 14 of the top anti-theft backpacks on the market for comfort, theft protection, and features. First, we filled each backpack with items we might carry around with us for a day of travel, including a laptop, book, magazine, headphones, phone charger, and water bottle. We observed any special features like organization pockets, pouches, charging capability, etc. Then we strapped it on and carried it around. We took note of how comfortable the bag was, calling out any special comfort features like adjustable straps, compression/weight distribution straps, and padding. We thought carefully about how long we would be able to comfortably carry each bag.

Next we got into the anti-theft portion of the testing. If a bag claimed to have slash-proof material, we took a box cutter to it, giving a couple of quick slashes to see how it held up. If it didn't yield any damage, we tried to really cut through it and see just how durable the material is. Next we evaluated how well compartments and zippers were hidden. For any that claimed to have hidden features, were they actually hidden or easily visible? We also tested the locking zippers on applicable bags (both those that had inherently locking zippers and ones that required us to use separate locks) for ease of use and functionality. For those that required a separate lock, we used this one .

One common anti-theft feature we didn't test for was RFID-blocking. RFID, which stands for radio frequency identification, is a technology used in credit cards, driver's license, and passports to wirelessly transmit information (think tap-to-pay, ID scanning, etc.). Some security experts have expressed concern that thieves could potentially use devices to obtain this information from a few feet away. In reality, theft via this method is rare, and it would be difficult to pull off. Plus, much RFID technology is used to emit one-time wireless signals that become useless after a transaction. All of our research shows that RFID-blocking is not as important as marketing materials seem to claim.

Other Anti-theft Backpacks We Liked

Some of the bags we tested did not make our list of recommendations. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Oscaurt Anti-theft Travel Backpack : It looks nice, but the material was extremely easy to cut through, and the laptop slot felt a little insecure.

Travelon Anti Theft Classic Backpack : Overall, we thought this bag was just fine. No huge defects, but just not quite good enough to make the list.

Arden Cove Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody : While the crossbody option was nice, the straps were uncomfortable and the fabric tore easily—two turnoffs, especially considering the price.

Matein Anti Theft Hard Shell Laptop Backpack 15.6 Inch : Although durable, we found it uncomfortable, and, even worse, the combination lock did not work.

To keep your items safe and secure wherever you go, consider some of these other products that prioritize safety.

Sherpani Espirit AT: If you prefer a sling bag to a more traditional backpack, the Sherpani Espirit AT is a great anti-theft option. It features a slash-resistant bottom, zippers that clasp together, and can be worn on your front or back, depending on your comfort.

Melsbrinna Passport Holder : Any international traveler should invest in a high-quality passport holder to protect their most important document, and this budget item is stylish and durable. It comes in 43 different colors and patterns and, yes, it does include RFID-blocking technology.

Eufy SmartTrack Link : We highly recommend this luggage tracker even if you aren't checking a bag. It's small enough that you can fit it in the pocket of any backpack or purse and the keychain slot even allows you to attach it to other important items like your keys or camera to help you quickly locate lost or stolen items.

Tips for Buying Anti-theft Backpacks

Consider your use cases.

Buying an anti-theft backpack is much like buying any other backpack: Some are best as carry-on luggage, some are better for everyday use, some are better for hiking, etc. So you'll want to be sure to consider size (around 15 liters is a good capacity for everyday use, while closer to 45 liters is better for a backpack acting as a piece of luggage) and interior organization features (are you just tossing in a bunch of clothes, or are you carrying laptops and tablets and wallets?). Beyond that, you'll want to look out for the basic anti-theft properties: hidden and/or lockable zippers, slash-proof exterior, hidden compartments, and other elements that might deter a potential thief.

Think about the materials

Thick and durable materials like polyester are best for anti-theft backpacks as it guards against rips and slashes that may allow a thief to steal your items. In addition to the main compartment, it's important to evaluate the materials of all straps and zippers to be sure they can't be broken or quickly accessed. Anti-theft bags that utilize hidden zippers will also best protect any items in outside pockets, similar to how laptop backpacks protect your laptops and tablets.

Prioritize comfort

A backpack is something you wear, so be sure it's comfortable. Looks for options with padded straps and adjustability. For larger backpacks, chest and hip straps can help reduce strain on your back and shoulders. An anti-theft backpack can have all the security features in the world, but if it hurts to wear, you won't use it.

Think carefully about RFID-blocking

If a bag you like has RFID-blocking, great. But don't fret if it doesn't, and certainly don't skip a bag you like just because it is not RFID-blocking. As mentioned previously, theft through RFID-skimming is rare. While you could purchase a product with RFID-blocking tech for peace of mind, it's really not essential. Think more about your comfort and durable materials when it comes to choosing an anti-theft backpack.

There are a few factors that make a backpack "anti-theft," and all of them are primarily aimed at deterring, if not offering full protection against, thieves. First, most anti-theft backpacks appear to have no visible access points, as zippers and pouches are hidden by flaps. Many will also have zipper "locks," which are often clasps that the zippers attach to so that a would-be robber faces a delay in trying to open the bag. Second, anti-theft backpacks are usually made with slash-proof material so that a person cannot simply slash open the bag with a knife or box cutter. Many anti-theft backpacks also come with additional security features like combination locks, cables for tying the bag to fixtures, and hidden compartments. Finally, many anti-theft backpacks are made with RFID-blocking (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to guard against any possible data theft including debit card numbers and passport information.

For the most part, anti-theft backpacks are only a bit more expensive than regular backpacks. You're usually paying for slash-proof material and a bit of extra hardware. But if you are the type of person who prefers a backpack for your work bag, your carry-on, or your sightseeing tote, you should consider an anti-theft model. If you're going to have a bag on you that often, the peace of mind is worth it.

Because of their safety features, most anti-theft backpacks should only be spot cleaned. Many anti-theft backpacks include built-in USB cords and locks that you wont want to submerge in water. The best way to clean your backpack would be to follow all of the manufacturer's instructions, which usually includes using a warm, soapy cloth to dab at stains.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Chris Abell has been a travel writer and editor for several years. He and a team of travel editors planned this test; they researched to find what appeared to be the best anti-theft backpacks available and then designed a testing methodology. A team of editors then spent a full day in our onsite lab testing the 14 backpacks, with each one thoroughly vetted for comfort, organizational features, and anti-theft performance.

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Pakt Travel Backpack Review – Is It Worth Buying?

10/22/2023 by Kristin Addis 2 Comments

The Pakt Travel Backpack makes some big promises, including multiple compartments, capacity to expand to 45L (but still within carry on limitations), and a lifetime warranty.

It also comes with a hefty price tag. But if you travel a lot, want a backpack that can be useful for everyday life as well, and want something that you’ll never have to pay to replace, is it worth it?

I’ve been using the Pakt Travel Backpack for nearly 3 years now and have brought it on nearly every flight since I got it. It replaced all of my other bags because it’s that good. Here’s everything to know before you buy:

Table of Contents

Pakt Travel Backpack’s Key Features

What makes the Pakt Travel Backpack different from other bags?

In a nutshell, it’s just easier to use. Here’s what Pakt told me when they reached out to ask if I’d test their bag and post about it on Instagram (which I agreed to do, but they didn’t ask me to write a blog review, and I wouldn’t be doing so unless I loved the bag):

• Features a lay-flat dual compartment with zip-around construction.
• Top-loading interior, waterproof pocket, removable hip straps that transform into a sling, lockable zippers, secret security compartments and many, many more.
• Packs like a suitcase with the comfort of a hiking pack.
• Consciously constructed- All fabrics are rNylon (recycled nylon), which can be recycled indefinitely.
• Padded laptop compartment fits devices up to 16”.
• Secure water bottle holder.
• Durable construction that is built to last with a LIFETIME warranty.
• A luggage pass to slide it onto the handle of a suitcase.
• Waterproof pouch that can now be easily removed.
• Water resistant exterior.

For me, one of the most important features has been the easy zip top access to the laptop sleeve, which perfectly fits my Macbook Pro.

I used to travel with a bag that had the laptop sleeve all the way at the back, which meant I had to pull out almost everything to access it at TSA. I have precheck in the US, but abroad, I was constantly pulling out my whole carry on just to get the laptop out. I confess sometimes I didn’t pull it out at all and just decided to say ‘oops!’ if they found it and wanted a re-screen. It worked a shocking amount of times, but thankfully I don’t have to do that anymore with the easy-access top zip.

The new version also has a daisy chain clip on system with an easy to remove inner pouch, plus an expandable front compartment. The water bottle pocket now comes with a toggle to hold the bottle in place, and the waterproof pouch now clips in rather than being a built-in pocket. I like that it’s now easy to remove, which would make it the perfect toiletry case.

Bottom line is, this bag is easy to use and can work for almost any situation. Check out more of the features here.

Now that I travel with a baby , and sometimes even travel solo with him, there’s just no way I can deal with a complicated backpack, especially doing TSA with a baby .

So far this backpack has been to Nevada , California , Alaska on a cruise , French Polynesia , South Africa , Namibia on my women’s Africa trip , Bali , Portugal , Japan , Quebec , Texas , the Bahamas , Utah , Kauai , New Mexico , Baja California , and the list goes on. It’s been in humid, extremely cold, and hot climates and done well in all of them. It’s been on luxury trips and dusty, rugged trips and handled them both.

Is the Pakt Travel Backpack Comfortable?

Features don’t matter if it’s uncomfortable to wear. For me, that means it needs waist straps – and legit ones. None of that single strap BS when the backpack is holding 20lbs of electronics, amiright?

My carry-on always ends up being pretty dang heavy since it’s holding cameras, a drone, computer, and lenses.

I keep using the Pakt Travel Backpack because it’s got padded straps, fits me well, has pads on the back, and makes wearing the backpack as comfortable as it can be given the weight. It has also had no problem handling all that gear. After years, nothing has broken or even worn down.

The added handle at the top and side is also key, which makes it easy to pull out of the overhead bin. The square, suitcase-style make of the backpack also helps it to store on its side in the overhead bin nicely without tipping over.

That said, this isn’t really a camera or electronics-focused backpack and isn’t super padded. It isn’t meant to be. I have mostly ditched these types of backpacks because all of the extra padding takes up so much room, I can’t fit everything.

I’m careful not to slam the bag down or let it fall, but otherwise, I haven’t had issues with electronics breaking, particularly since it can fit so well into the bin on its side that nobody stacks anything on top of it. I can also fit under the seat, but I try to avoid that as I’d have no leg space left.

Is the Pakt Travel Backpack Durable?

I’ve had several premium bags that over time have had little things break off like clasps, buckles, or other little things. For the amount of times that this bag has gotten caught a little parts of an airplane, it’s amazing nothing has broken off. Interview part of that to some key elements, not being plastic, like some of the adjustment strap clasps, and the zippers. I honestly don’t think any little thing has broken from this bag, and there are no snags either.

It doesn’t look all the different now from when it was brand new. For going on probably a good hundred economy and business class flights by now and a cumulative year of time in motion, that’s impressive.

My Experience with the Pakt Travel Backpack

I’ll be honest, quite a few companies reach out asking for me to partner with them to review their products, and over the years I’ve been pretty passionate about PacSafe, and now Pakt. I give the edge to Pakt over the Pacsafe, though, and have sold most of my old backpacks. Pakt is more durable and so much easier to use. There are so. many. pockets. and being able to unzip it like a suitcase makes it much easier to pack and access my items, plus the top zip means I don’t have to unzip all the way to reach what’s on top.

I’ve been using this backpack ever since they sent it to me. It immediately demonstrated to me that it was better than anything else I had, and I had kind of a lot of backpacks.

It would have been a tough choice for me to spend over $300 on a backpack, but nowadays, I will only buy luggage with a lifetime warranty . Since the Pakt backpack comes with one, that means I’ll never have to buy another one again. Let that sink in. Spend $325 once – for life.

Yes, the Pakt Travel Backpack is worth buying, and I’m not looking for any other backpack any time soon. It checks all the boxes.

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support us at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase. Everybody wins!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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03/12/2024 at 9:52 am

Hi Kristin! Thanks for the review. Do you find it very heavy to carry? I usually travel with a carry on and backpack but am considering changing. Thank you!

Kristin Addis says

03/13/2024 at 1:20 pm

It’s only as heavy as I pack it, so for me, yes it’s heavy! But the backpack itself isn’t inherently heavy. I like that it has thick straps and a waist belt, which helps with weight distribution.

The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

From basic rucksacks to nifty new features, these backpacks are a traveler's dream come true.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Team T&C are experts in the field of traveling light and packing efficiently . And because we know every traveler has different preferences and needs, our editors took it upon ourselves to research, test, and share our favorite and most reliable styles on the market. Ahead, find the best carry-on travel backpacks designed to go the distance.

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

A backpack that packs like a suitcase? Why didn't someone think of this sooner? This Samsonite bag is perfect for the traveler who wants to travel light without sacrificing that packing method they've perfected.

One reviewer writes: "Durable yet lightweight. Streamline design and not bulky at all. Perfect carryon size with backpack straps for convenience."

Dimensions: 20" x 12.5" x 7"

Weight: 3.6 lbs

Material: Recyclex

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

This bag has compartments, on compartments, on compartments—including an exterior laptop pocket, making it extra easy to slip your computer in and out for TSA.

One reviewer says: "I initially purchased because I needed more storage to function as my work bag. It just so happen I was traveling abroad in that same month as well. I did not realize that it had a strap on the back to make it super convenient to connect to my carry on luggage. The storage in this bag is phenomenal. 10/10 recommend!"

Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” L x 7.25” D

Packing Capacity: 27L

Material: 100% recycled polyester with a water-resistant finish

Fjallraven Kanken Water Resistant Backpack

These Scandinavian bags have been tested, tried and true since the 1970s. According to T&C 's Associate Shopping Editor Sophie Dweck, who owns several Fjallraven Kankens, they don't offer a lot of frills or features, but they are as practical and reliable as they come. Cute enough to be your day bag but spacious enough to fit all your carry-on essentials, this bag is two-for-one. Plus, there's no shortage of color options!

One shopper says: "This is my second backpack and I just love to use this during my travels. It’s stylish, lightweight and can surprisingly fit my essentials."

Dimensions: 14" H x 10" W x 4 ½" D

Weight: .7 lbs

Material: Vinylon

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Calpak is known for creating travel bags and accessories with smart engineering in mind, and this backpack is an incredibly popular pick for obvious reasons. Thanks to its many compartments, it can hold a ton—shoes, notebooks, bottles, you name it—and is designed to protect a 15-inch laptop in one of the inner sleeves. Even better, it comes in a variety of pretty colors, such as this rose gold hue.

One shopper says: "I love this backpack. My laptop fits perfectly and it’s very roomy to carry a travel umbrella, glasses, electrical cord, notebooks, and more. I love the puffy exterior and have the matching Luca mini. Together, creates a great weekend getaway."

Dimensions: 16" x 12" x 7"

Weight: 1.8 lbs

Material: Polyester

Monos Metro Backpack

The unique feature on this pack from Monos is the detachable, interchangeable pouch that fixes to the front of the bag. This smaller bag is the perfect spot to keep the items you need quick and easy access to, like your passport, headphones, keys, and charging cables.

One shopper says: "I love this backpack! The trolley sleeve is a huge plus, but my favorite feature is being able to remove the Metro Kit. I like that I can conveniently place the backpack under the seat and the Metro kit can hang off the pouch in the seat in front of me, making it easy to grab the essentials mid-flight."

Exterior Dimensions: 11.5" × 16.5" × 6"

Exterior Weight: 2.4 lb (nylon) / 3 lb (vegan leather)

Metro Dimensions: 8.75" × 6.75" × 2"

Metro Weight: .6 lbs

Material: Nylon or vegan leather

Cuyana Leather Backpack 16-inch

For a travel bag that sacrifices neither function and fashion, you turn to Cuyana. The brand's minimalist backpack is crafted with premium Italian leather and tricked out with convenient features, like a spacious main compartment with pockets and a laptop sleeve, two additional exterior pockets, a magnetic snap closure for easy access, comfortable straps that don't dig into your shoulders, and a top handle that allows you to tote the bag around by hand.

One shopper says: "This is the perfect work and travel backpack. I got it in navy and looks amazing. My laptop, notebook, and computer accessories all fit in very neatly with plenty of room for other items. I was a little worried about my water bottle fitting in the front pocket, but it is just fine there and the magnets even help it stay in place. It is simply PERFECT!!!"

Dimensions: 15.1" x 11" x 7"

Weight: 2.6 lbs

Material: Leather

MZ Wallace Metro Backpack Deluxe

MZ Wallace's bags are absurdly lightweight, insanely roomy, and the signature quilting adds interest to an otherwise understated bag. This backpack is no exception. T&C 's Senior News Editor Emily Burack is a massive fan of the brand .

One shopper says: "Bought the Dawn metro backpack deluxe for a recent trip. I squeezed in so many items such as electronics, iPad, cosmetics, a jacket and small crossbody purse. Love the back sleeve that you can attach to your suitcase, and then can convert it to a pocket by zippering the bottom. And finally side pockets that can fit a water bottle."

Dimensions: 2.20" × 6.90" × 16.50"

Weight: 1.3 lbs

Material: REC Oxford

Carl Friedrik 72-Hour Backpack

For the packer who's serious about one-bag travel, Carl Friedrik's aptly-titled pack is a great option. The 25-liter carrier is designed fit up to three-days worth of outfits and is perfectly sized to fit under the seat in front of you. Also worth noting: The front panel fully unzips, there's a laptop sleeve, and various pockets so you can make the most of every nook and cranny.

And if that's not enough to convince you? Succession 's The Roy family is fan of Carl Friedrik , as is T&C 's very own Leena Kim .

Dimensions: 11.8" x 18.1" x 7.1"

Packing Capacity: 25L

Material: Nylon

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Those who are often guilty of overpacking will get a kick out of this pick. No matter how much you stuff inside of it, the bag is lightweight to carry day in and day out. It's made of a blend of tough, TPU-coated polyester and durable nylon paneling, and has padded shoulder straps which add to the comfort. Also notable is its harness feature that distributes weight and prevents you from suffering from any back or shoulder pain later on.

One shopper says: "The Cotopaxi was my real working bag for carrying 3-4 days' clothing & toiletries. I am impressed with the quality build, the cool appearance of the bag, the organized storage, the way the compartments hold their shape without using heavyweight material. The interior feels well enough secure for my purposes but also has easy access smaller compartment for a light jacket."

Dimensions : 20" x 12" x 10"

Weight: 3 lbs 8 oz

Material: Polyester and nylon

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

At last, your very own Mary Poppins bag. Well, not quite, but it might as well be. Don't be fooled by this bag's streamlined look—it can fit a lot. Yet, its dimensions qualify as a personal item, meaning it fits perfectly under the seat in front of you.

One shopper says: "I love traveling with this backpack. It is compact enough to wear I am not hitting people with it every time I turn around on the plane. It has a compartment for everything and is great quality. Excellent customer service from Lo & Sons, too!!!"

Dimensions: 11.5" x 6.75" x 16.5" (large); 10.75" x 6" x 16" (small)

Weight: 3.2 lbs (large); 2.9 lbs (small)

Material: Nylon and leather

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

First of all, this bag is made with 23 recycled water bottles! So it's already a winner. Water-resistant and roomy, it comes with a zippered pouch that can be used as a shoe bag, or for any other essentials you want easy access to. We also love its sleek look—how could you not?

One shopper raves: "I wanted a small backpack that could still carry all my stuff, but also look stylish and sleek. This was it. The Dakota and small is the perfect backpack. Big enough to carry all my stuff as a mom of three while traveling but small enough to not feel too heavy. The material is soft but durable. I’m definitely a forever fan now!"

Dimensions: 11.5” L x 5” W x 17” H

Weight: 2 lbs 3 oz

Material: Premium neoprene and performance air mesh

Aer Travel Pack 3 Black

A true traveler's bag, the main compartment of this backpack lays open flat, so you can pack it like a regular suitcase. It has designated laptop and organizational compartments, plus multiple additional pockets for all your other must-haves. The zippers are also lockable, and there's a pocket just for your AirTag !

One shopper says: "This backpack does everything I need. Keeps things really organized, looks great, comfortable to carry heavy stuff... I really like how it collapses to a smaller profile once it’s empty for both easy storage, and a slimmer profile for a day to day pack."

Dimensions : 13" x 21.5" x 9"

Weight: 4.12 lbs

Tumi Celina Backpack

Tumi is one of the most trusted names in luggage, so you can be sure this bag is of high quality. It has lots of pockets and compartments, but the best feature has to be the Tumi Tracer, which will allow you to track and locate your bag should you misplace it.

One shopper raves : "So light empty and so roomy. Lots of pockets and fantastic construction. A quality backpack that will last for years and years, worth every penny!"

Dimensions : 16.0" x 10.6" x 6.5"

Shinola Detroit The Runwell Backpack

If you're looking to invest in a bag that can really go the distance, it's gotta be high-quality leather. You can trust that this will hold up, and best of all, it'll only look better as it wears in during all your trips to come.

One shopper says: "I purchased this Runwell backpack in the summer of ‘19 to use as my work bag and waited a few years of daily use to review. I can truly say it’s almost perfect; it looks small on me but that’s my fault for not reading measurements. It easily fits my laptop, plenty of cables, paperwork, gym clothes, a shower bag, and many more random things. The pockets in the interior are great; it’s very functional. Although I do clean/condition it every few months, it’s developed a wonderful patina."

Dimensions: 17" H x 10.38" W x 6" D

Weight: 3.9 lbs

Beis Travel The Expandable Backpack

With pockets and compartments galore, the Beis backpack has endless room for all your essentials. And once it's all filled up? You can unzip the expandable zipper for even more space! Never thought you'd be so excited about a backpack? We get it.

One reviewer writes: "The expandable feature makes it great for travel but un-expanded, it’s great for work. The pockets are so functional and the extra padded laptop sleeve is great. Also got caught in a rainstorm this week and the inside of the bag stayed perfectly dry!"

Dimensions: 13" x 15" x 5-7"

Weight: 1.67 lbs

Material: 100% recycled poly

Troubadour Aero Backpack

This top-loading backpack not only features a main inner section with a ton of clever pockets, but there's also a 3D top pocket for easy access to your toiletries, a dedicated space for shoes, and a separate padded compartment for a laptop. Even better: It doubles as a duffle carrier for days when you'd prefer carrying your things as a crossbody.

One shopper says: "Just perfect. Enough pockets in the right place without being annoying or irritating and it looks sooooo good."

Dimensions: 13.4" x 20" x 7.9"

Weight: 2.75 lbs

Material: Recycled polyester fabric, recycled polyester lining, vegan leather trim

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Known for the suitcases everybody can't get enough of, Away also offers a range of backpacks that feature the same intelligent designs and user-friendly features. The aptly-named Everywhere knapsack is made with water-resistant nylon and features a wrap-around zipper for extra access in the main compartment.

One shopper writes : "It may be a little much to say this backpack changed my life, but it changed my life.. It's comfortable. It's SO well designed, with a logical place for everything. It holds a LOT. It's stylish and stays upright when you put it down. Most importantly (and the reason I bought it in the first place), I'm no longer sore after walking around and carrying my stuff all day. I may never go back to wearing a shoulder bag again. Worth every penny."

Dimensions : 12" x 5.9" x 17.7"

Weight : 2.45 lbs

Material : Nylon and leather

Paravel Fold-Up Backpack

The genius of this backpack? Its compact size can fit a ton without weighing a ton, and when it's not in use, it folds up flat and zips into a space-saving pouch. Bonus: Get yours customized with your initials for a personalized touch.

One shopper says: "I couldn’t believe that a roomy backpack could zip up very easily into a pouch! It is very roomy with several zip up compartments for extra storage. It looks very nice. I am going to Europe and was searching for a lightweight backpack. This is perfect!"

Dimensions: 13" x 16" x 9"

Weight: .63 lbs

Material: Nylon from recycled water bottles

.css-1q42gf4{color:#030929;font-family:NewParis,NewParis-fallback,NewParis-roboto,NewParis-local,Georgia,Times,serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:1.875rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1q42gf4{font-size:1.875rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-1q42gf4{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1q42gf4{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1q42gf4{font-size:3.125rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-1q42gf4 b,.css-1q42gf4 strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1q42gf4 em,.css-1q42gf4 i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} What to look for when buying a carry-on travel backpack

A carry-on travel backpack is a great in-flight companion because it's conveniently designed to be super spacious and a hands-free way to carry your belongings.

When shopping for the best option, it's important to choose a bag that can fit underneath the seat in front of you. While sizes vary depending on the airplane, most domestic airlines in the United States require a personal item to be somewhere around 17 inches tall, 13 inches wide, and 8 inches long.

Equally as important: Look for a backpack with functional features, such as organization pockets, full zip openings, a laptop sleeve, and adjustable straps for a comfortable fit.

Why trust Town & Country?

For more than 170 years, Town & Country has been the trusted source for influence, taste, elegant living, and the finest things in life. We cover everything from the latest and greatest in beauty to luxury travel to the buzziest fashion trends of the season. All of our stories are thoroughly researched, tested, and vetted by T&C editors and industry experts.

Meg is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com where she researches trends, tests products, and looks for answers to all your burning questions. She also co-writes a monthly column, Same Same But Different . Meg has previously written for Cosmopolitan and Town & Country . Her passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and sustainability. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.

Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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