travel backpack 26l

Advertisement

The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

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

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

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

What we considered

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

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

Buying Options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

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

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

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

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

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

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

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

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

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

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

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

Meet your guide

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

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

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

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

by Kit Dillon

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

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

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

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

by Elissa Sanci

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

• Order tracking
• Make an exchange
• Make a return
• View our manuals
• Warranty & repairs
• Boston: Newbury
• Boston: Seaport
• LA: Venice Beach
• LA: West Hollywood
• NYC: Williamsburg
• San Francisco
• Washington DC
• New arrivals
• Best sellers
• Shop all suitcases
• Compare Carry-Ons
• Compare checked
• A color for every trip
• Flex: Expandable suitcases
• Bundle and save
• Shop all bags
• Crossbodies
• Extended stays
• Attachable sleeve
• Personal item
• Laptop friendly
• The Outdoor Collection
• Shop all accessories
• Packing organizers
• Toiletry bags
• Tech organizers
• In-flight essentials
• Small leather goods
• Luggage tags & charms
• Compare duffles
• Away x Resident Advisor
• 2024 Travel Destinations

Shop by size

Shop by collection, shop by category, shop by feature, city guides, the outdoor backpack 26l.

Hold a day's worth of travel essentials. Paired with F.A.R Organizational Cube .

• Forest Green
• Navy Blue Gone for now

Made from a lightweight, high-strength polyester, this versatile backpack is loaded with design features that holds a day’s worth of travel essentials, whether you’re on an afternoon hike in a national park or exploring the outskirts of a new city. There are also two exterior water bottle pockets for keeping hydration on-hand, while a thoughtful organization system securely stashes all your essentials inside the bag.

Made from recycled, water- and abrasion-resistant materials, our Outdoor Collection is designed to protect your belongings from the elements—whether you’re staying local or going off the grid.

Features & functions:

• Two water bottle side pockets that fit up to 32 oz. bottles
• Front compartment has interior slip pockets for easy access to small essentials
• Main compartment has a slip pocket
• Front webbing loops to attach keys
• Exterior 15" laptop compartment for keeping your device separate
• Hidden zipper compartment
• Trolley strap secures to any Away suitcase
• Interior 15" laptop slip pocket as an additional device compartment

Material content:

• Body made from a lightweight, abrasion-resistant 100% recycled polyester
• Zippers and webbing made from 100% recycled materials
• Shipped in compostable packaging

Capacity 26L Dimensions 19" x 12.6" x 7.7" Weight 1.74 lbs

We want you to love everything about getting Away—which is why we offer free returns and exchanges on unused items for the first 100 days. We can only accept returns on unused items, so please gently test them out at home before traveling with them. Learn more about our return policy .

Our bags and accessories are all protected by a limited one-year warranty, which means that if anything breaks in your first year, we’ll fix or replace it. Learn more about our warranty .

Keep in mind that while personalized items cannot be returned or exchanged, they are still covered by our warranties. For shipping info, see our FAQ .

Thoughtfully designed, inside out

Lightweight and durable.

Better for the outside world

You might also like.

Free Shipping on Orders Over $99

Orders are shipped within 1-2 business days and arrive within 3-10 business days. Need it sooner? Concerned about the environmental impact? Flexible shipping options are available.

More Details

Earth Is Now Our Only Shareholder

If we have any hope of a thriving planet—much less a business—it is going to take all of us doing what we can with the resources we have. This is what we can do.

Read Yvon’s Letter

• Food + Drink
• Take Action

Refugio Daypack 26L

Select Size and Color

Select Size

Select Color

• Packs & Gear See Packs & Gear
• Bags & Luggage See All Bags & Luggage
• Backpacks See Backpacks

The Refugio Daypack 26L has the go-to volume and fit of our core daypack line, built for efficient working on the go and capable gear carrying on the trail, with the ability to tackle any pursuit in between. Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory.

What customers are saying: View all reviews

For more information visit our Size Guide

Specs & Features

Pack made of 100% recycled polyester.

To resist light moisture, this 26-liter pack has a durable water repellent (DWR) finish made without perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs/PFAS); all fabrics are 100% recycled polyester except the stretchy mesh for the side pockets, which is an 84% recycled nylon/16% spandex blend

Padded 15" Laptop Sleeve

Removable padded sleeve fits laptops up to 15" and has a secure zippered pocket to hold pens, cords and other desktop items to ease transitions from work to play

Breathable Back Panel and Hydration Hanger

Hydration hanger, pass-through access and breathable back panel are as ready for the trail as the daily commute

Tech-Friendly Features and Organization

Dedicated Desk Caddy compartment, a large main compartment and a front-panel pocket help keep your day organized and frequently used items close at hand

Bike Light Clip

Bike-light clipping point at base of pack

19" Torso Length

19" torso length fits most adults (the “Refugio Fit”)

Supporting the People Who Made This Product

Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory, which means the people who made this product earned a premium for their labor

Country of Origin

Made in Vietnam.

735 g (1 lb 10 oz)

Last Season Color Offered at Full Price

7.3-oz 400-denier 100% postconsumer recycled polyester with a PU coating and a durable water repellent (DWR) finish made without perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs/PFAS)

3-oz 200-denier 100% recycled polyester with a PU coating

Back panel and shoulder straps

8-oz 100% recycled polyester spacer mesh

Side panels

7.1-oz 84% recycled nylon/16% spandex power mesh

100% recycled nylon

Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory

Care Instructions

Hand Wash, Do Not Bleach, Drip Dry, Do Not Iron, Do Not Dry Clean

Gear Capacity: 26L (1,587 cu in) Dimensions: 18" x 12" x 6.5" Weight: 1 lbs 9.9 oz (735 g)

Size & Fit

Free Ground Shipping on Orders over $99*

We do our best to process and ship orders within 1-2 business days. Please keep in mind that we get backlogged during sales or the holiday season and it could take longer. If you have any questions about your order, please contact our friendly Customer Service team and we'll be glad to help.

Returns & Exchanges

We accept both current season and sale items for return or exchange. We do not set a time limit on returns, though we ask that returns for fit or color be made in a timely manner and that items be kept in new condition with tags attached.

We Guarantee Everything We Make

If you are not satisfied with one of our products at the time you receive it, or if one of our products does not perform to your satisfaction, our Ironclad Guarantee allows you to return it for a replacement or refund at no charge. Damage due to wear and tear will be repaired at a reasonable charge.

We guarantee everything we make.

We take responsibility for our impact.

We support grassroots activism.

We keep your gear going.

We give our profits to the planet.

5 best backpacks for every travel style

Editor's Note

My purple camo Trans by Jansport backpack served me well for 20-plus years. It accompanied me to several countries, on countless road trips and along many hikes.

However, as I improved my packing strategies and my needs changed, I realized my current backpack situation was not ideal.

My bag lacked padding for my laptop, which I never travel without these days. It didn't include enough compartments for me to stay organized, either. Also, I've lost more than a handful of water bottles over the years, thanks to the short and loose side pockets.

Backpack benefits

The best travel backpacks are durable, well-organized and roomy enough for all your travel essentials.

They can also be more comfortable for frequent use. Because they're better at distributing weight, they're less likely to cause musculoskeletal damage that lugging a heavy tote bag on one shoulder might.

"Carrying heavy weight on one side of the body can cause a forward tilt of the shoulder, and poor posture, which can lead to shoulder and back pain long-term," said Dr. Jenny Yu, head of medical affairs at Healthline Media (which is owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures).

Backpacks are also easier to manage than rolling carry-ons, making your sprint to your connecting flight a little more efficient.

It was time to level up. Choosing the perfect replacement was a daunting task, though. I researched several models from different brands in varied price ranges.

Considerations when choosing a backpack

The type of bag you choose depends largely on how you plan to use it. Will it serve as your go-to bag for day trips, work commutes and road trips? Or, do you need a sturdy backpack for camping, hiking and long-haul flights or extended travel?

Once you narrow down your needs, it's easier to hone in on your other requirements.

Your travel plans and how you plan to use your backpack will likely determine how small or large your bag should be.

A park day out with the kids or a cruise port shore excursion may just require a small (6–10L) bag. Daypacks, typically 10–30L, are fine for your work commute or hiking. For travel purposes — from weekend getaways to multiday vacations — backpacks in the 30–45L range are your best bet.

On most U.S. airlines, a 45L backpack is the maximum size carry-on allowed. If you're flying on a budget carrier, you'll probably want to stick with something under the 40L range.

For packing purposes, a 45L bag is a good option if you're not bringing another carry-on. It should be able to hold four large packing cubes, a medium packing cube and a toiletry bag. This size fits in the overhead compartment.

Storing your backpack in the overhead bin? It shouldn't be larger than 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

You can fit two large packing cubes, a medium cube and a small toiletry bag in a 35L backpack. It should fit under the seat in front of you on the aircraft.

If you want to ensure your backpack fits under the seat, it can't exceed 18 by 14 by 8 inches, according to airline policy.

Related: How to tell if your backpack counts as a personal or carry-on item.

Backpacks can feature a variety of anti-theft components — some styles are more robust than others.

You may not need your bag to be at a Fort Knox level of security, but it should inclfeatures that can protect you (and your belongings) from thieves or pickpockets.

Consider a backpack constructed with slash-resistant material and straps, as well as lockable zippers.

Bags that offer RFID protection are lined with a special material that blocks accidental payments and intentional skimming of credit cards. They can prevent criminals from electronically accessing your personal information.

Compartments

If you use packing cubes, this might not be as big of a consideration for you. Even with packing cubes, I like having smaller sections for things I need to access easily — my phone, chargers, reporter notebook (yeah, I'm old school), passport and other necessities.

What do you typically pack in your backpack? As I mentioned, a laptop pocket is essential for me. I also like to have hidden pockets to store my passport, COVID-19 vaccine card and wallet. Separate areas to stash my sunglasses, chargers, keys and other important items I travel with are important, too.

Keeping the above features in mind, I reviewed five backpacks ranging in price and style. Here's the round-up.

Related: Here's what to pack in a carry-on bag every time you travel

Patagonia — Black Hole 32L Travel Pack

What I liked

The Patagonia Black Hole 32L Travel Pack is completely constructed with 100% recycled materials, including the body fabric, lining and webbing. It comes in a handful of colors — gold, red, black and gray/blue. The shinier shell has a polyurethane coating that makes it water-resistant.

This bag is also Fair Trade Certified™ sewn (as are all Patagonia products). Since the program launched in 2014, it has impacted more than 75,000 workers in 10 countries.

The lightweight bag packs flat and is very flexible. At first glance, I wondered if it would be structured enough to protect my laptop. However, the padded pocket worked well and fits most 15-inch laptops. The pocket is also slightly elevated from the bottom of the bag, which can protect your laptop if the bottom of your bag gets wet.

Both my 28- and 40-ounce insulated water bottles fit easily in the side pockets.

I tested this bag (along with the Away F.A.R. backpack) during a recent long-haul trip to South Africa. I packed:

• My 13-inch laptop.
• A 28-ounce insulated water bottle (filled once I passed through security).
• Compression socks.
• Travel pillow.
• Cross-body bag containing my passport, credit cards and money.
• A small reporter's notebook.
• Two paperback books.
• Makeup bag.
• Toiletry bag.
• A large Ziploc bag filled with snacks (protein bars, as well as bags of almonds and trail mix.

Filled, the backpack weighed just under 10 pounds.

I was impressed with the number of items I was able to pack. This backpack is like the clown car of backpacks. The sturdy straps held it in place and it never felt cumbersome to carry.

The pocket section of the bag zips open so you can lay it flat for going through the TSA scanner. (If you have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck , you won't need to worry about that, though.)

I liked the two rows of daisy chain-style loops on the outside of the bag. It's good for hanging bulky items or things you don't want to get crushed inside.

If you plan to long-distance hike with this bag, there's a hole at the top for the hose of your hydration pack.

Other considerations

The Patagonia Black Hole Travel Pack doesn't offer RFID protection. However, if the wallet that holds your ID and credit cards has the RFID protection feature, you should be covered.

Although this bag has an air mesh back panel for increased ventilation, other reviewers commented that the airflow wasn't substantial enough to prevent a sweaty back. I didn't encounter that issue. This bag doesn't include a hip belt, which could provide more stability. I typically don't use hip belts on backpacks, so I didn't mind it missing here.

Sizing: 16.93 by 7.87 by 23.03 inches, 1.1 pounds (empty).

Price: Around $249 on Amazon.

Arlo Skye — The Backpack

The brand's luggage line consistently garners high praise from reviewers, so I figured its one backpack offering, The Backpack , would be pretty solid. Color options are mint and black. It arrived tucked in a large reusable drawstring bag that included a handy silica gel pack, one of my essential travel accessories .

I tested a black backpack. I liked the bag's sleek design and leather top handle and trim. The water-resistant material is a nylon and polyester blend.

A tiny zip pocket at the top of the bag is the ideal spot to stash my earbuds, charger or a small pair of sunglasses. If you don't have a clunky set of keys, they may fit as well. I set off my car alarm attempting to shove mine into the small pocket.

The front section has a zippable mesh pocket, and two RFID-lined slip pockets for secure storage of your credit cards, ID and passport. A decent-size (9.5 by 7 inches) front pocket with a zipper provides easy access to your smartphone, keys and other items. There was room enough to store my Kindle (without its cover). There's also an attached key leash.

A middle section provides an open pocket for a tablet or iPad, and two smaller pockets — one of them, an expandable mesh. The third (back) portion of the bag is a padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 15" laptop.

The backpack also features a wide back sleeve that fits securely over the handle of carry-on luggage.

If you need a backpack that could serve as your one and only carry-on, this may not work for you. It's roomy enough for basics and a minimalist packer could possibly fit a weekend's worth of clothes and essentials in it. However, I think it would be a better option for your daily commute, weekend road trips or day trips.

The water bottle pockets were kind of useless to me. The pockets don't expand and there is no give in the material, so you're somewhat limited in bottle size.

It barely fit my 28-ounce insulated water bottle (I couldn't push the bottle all the way to the bottom of the pocket). However, you would probably be fine with a purchased 16-ounce plastic bottle of water.

I don't like storing my water bottle inside my backpack because of potential leaks (and water damage to my laptop), so I ended up carrying my 40-ounce bottle separately. There is a metal hook on one side of the bag so you could attach an insulated bottle to it with a carabiner.

Sizing: 11.8 by 7.5 by 17.7, 2.1 pounds (empty).

Price: $250.

Away — F.A.R. Backpack 26L

Away has a sizable fan base ( including TPG staffers ) thanks to its stylish hard-side rolling luggage.

F.A.R. (For All Routes) is the brand's recently launched outdoor line. The collection is designed with frequent travelers and outdoor adventurers in mind. Bags in the collection are constructed with lightweight 100% recycled polyester, and are abrasion- and water-resistant. The zippers and webbing are also made with recycled materials.

I tested the 26L backpack . The bag arrived wrapped in a plant-based compostable plastic bag, which is in line with the brand's push toward offering more sustainable and environmentally friendly products.

It's available in five colors — black, vivid blue, red-orange, burgundy and (dark) green.

As I mentioned above, I tested this bag on my return long-haul flight from South Africa. On the trip home, it contained everything I packed in the Patagonia backpack, as well as two small bags of souvenirs I snagged at the airport on the way out.

Since it's a bit smaller than the Patagonia backpack I carried first, I was concerned it wouldn't hold everything I started my trip with. I was pleasantly surprised it did with no issues.

The two side pockets for water bottles are roomy. The features list reads that the pockets fit up to 32-ounce bottles, but my 40-ounce insulated bottle fits easily (though I traveled with a 28-ounce bottle).

This backpack had lots of pockets and hidden storage. The front compartment has interior slip pockets for easy access to small essentials like your wallet, smartphone, passport, a book or two, chargers and other items. It was a slightly tighter fit once filled, but I suspected it would be given the size difference.

The main compartment features a larger slip pocket for your laptop. The padding wasn't quite as thick as the Patagonia laptop pocket, but it was enough that I didn't worry about it being damaged.

Two hidden zipper pockets on each side are so well concealed I wouldn't have found them if I hadn't read the features card included with the backpack.

You can attach your keys or other items to the bag's wide front webbing loops. Also, the thick backpack trolley strap slips easily onto your luggage handle.

In addition to the backpack I tested, the F.A.R. line includes three sizes of duffles, a 45L backpack, a water bottle bag, a packing cube, a zippered pouch and a messenger bag.

Of the five backpacks I tested, this was probably my favorite. Based on my experience with this brand, I will likely add more F.A.R. products to my travel arsenal.

Sizing: 19 by 12.6 by 7.7 inches, .78 pounds (empty).

Price: $130.

Solo Re:Claim

One of the products in Solo's Re:Cycled collection, the Solo Re:Claim is made from Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a type of strong, lightweight and 100% recyclable plastic. The collection is reasonably priced and includes additional backpacks, totes, rolling cases, laptop sleeves and other products (all constructed from recyclable plastic).

The bag I tested was heather-grey. It also comes in burgundy and navy (though the navy backpacks were unavailable at the time of writing this).

The backpack is water-resistant and comes with a five-year limited warranty. It features a smaller padded front zippable pocket with compartments for pens, cards, your phone and a tablet, as well as a small clip for your keys. A roomy fully-padded compartment fits 11- to 15.6-inch laptops.

There are mesh pockets on each side for water bottles. Although the pockets give a little, I struggled to squeeze in my 28-ounce insulated bottle. Once I got it in, though, I felt confident it wouldn't fall out.

A tag was included in the packaging with information about Solo's partnership with the National Forest Foundation. The company plants trees with every bag sold from its Recycled Collection.

I didn't really care for the two handles at the top of the backpack. They were located on each side of the opening with a wrap-like velcro to connect them. It was kind of annoying to have to take it apart every time I wanted to unzip the bag.

I usually travel with a 40-ounce bottle, which did not fit in the side pockets.

Sizing: 16.5 by 12.25 by 6.75 inches, 1.2 pounds (empty).

Price: About $67.26 on Amazon.

Briggs & Riley — @Work Large Cargo Backpack

This backpack is ideal for work commuters and business travelers who need a sleek and professional-looking bag to carry their business essentials. It's also roomy enough to pack clothes and toiletries you'd need for an overnight stay if needed.

The hefty price tag might intimidate you. However, when you consider the company's lifetime replacement warranty and consistently positive customer reviews, I feel like it's worth the investment.

It has an interior organizer, main and laptop compartments, a durable fabric lining, an RFID-blocking pocket with two hidden credit card pockets that hold a wallet and passport.

There are also three elastic slip pockets with leather tabs to organize smaller items such as cords and USB drives and two more slip pockets to store other items.

Its top cargo pocket on the front panel holds travel accessories. It features two elastic pen loops, a large main compartment, a full-length slip pocket in the main compartment for storing folders or files, as well as two elastic pockets in the main compartment for storing cables and chargers.

It also includes a laptop compartment with a padded sleeve, plus a padded tablet pocket in the laptop compartment.

The exterior is 1600D ballistic nylon that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. The front panel also has a leather nameplate on the front (that you can monogram), a deep zip pocket on the front panel for easy access to items such as sunglasses or a smartphone, top-grain leather carry handles and a gusseted side u-zip pocket with an elastic band for a water bottle.

The backpack has adjustable padded straps, an aerated mesh back padding and a slip-through back panel that allows the backpack to slide over a luggage handle and bottom corner guards to protect the backpack from wear and tear.

It's very comfortable. I'm surprised at how light it feels given its large size. I tested it during my daily office commute. It holds my laptop, charger, wallet, phone and an extra pair of shoes.

I also appreciated the light contrasting shade of the bag's inside lining — it's so much easier to find my items.

Color choices are limited to black and dark grey. However, if you're using it for daily work or business travel, you want something that looks professional and this definitely fits the bill.

Additionally, there aren't any real external gear attachment options. The bag does include a removable luggage tag, which is nice.

Sizing: 19 by 15 by 8 inches, 3.2 pounds (empty).

Price: $379.

Related: What your luggage brand says about you

Bottom line

A well-organized and sturdy travel backpack is worth its weight in gold.

If you expect a lot out of your bag and want it to last through all your future travels, you may want to spend a little more on it. If you travel occasionally and just need a backpack for convenience, lower-priced options should suffice for your needs.

Before you buy your next backpack (or other travel essentials), check out TPG's guides to airline and shopping portals, as well as the best credit cards for online shopping. That way, the gear you buy for your next trip can also help you pay for it.

Do you have a backpack you can't do without? Let us know in the TPG Lounge or email us at [email protected]. We're always on the lookout for products that make travel easier and we would love to hear from you.

• Carry-On Luggage
• Checked Luggage
• Convertible Carry Luggage
• 4-Wheel Luggage
• 2-Wheel Luggage
• New Arrivals

Adventure-ready wheeled carry-on & checked luggage

• Packing Cubes
• Compression Cubes
• Toiletry Bags
• E-Organization
• Garment Folders
• Sacks & Pouches

Compress bulky items, separate dirty shoes or clothes, and maximize luggage space while packing

• Carry-On Duffels
• Large Duffels
• Rolling Duffels
• Backpack Duffels

Designed & constructed to minimize fabric waste

• Carry-On Backpacks
• Waist & Shoulder Bags
• Travel & Hiking Backpacks

With practical packs & bags for commutes, extended trips, and everyday use

• Luggage Tags & Locks
• Comfort & Necessities
• Money Belts
• RFID Security

With Undercover Hidden Pockets, Money Belts, and more

• Travel Blog
• Sustainability
• No Matter What Warranty
• Find a Store

Find travel tips, adventure checklists, packing hacks & more in our Travel Blog

Explore Backpack 26L

The Explore Backpack 26L is the ultimate go-anywhere, do-anything travel companion. As functional on the trail as it is stylish in the city, this lightweight, ergonomically designed pack fits comfortably while keeping your belongings organized and secure. And get this: ALL main body fabrics are made from 100% recycled textiles! You read that right. Eagle Creek prioritizes sustainable manufacturing while still addressing all your travel durability and organizational needs.

Read More Less

Couldn't load pickup availability

Find in Store

Backed by our No Matter What® Warranty

Keeping Bags from Landfills.

All Eagle Creek products are backed by our No Matter What ® Warranty . From day one, Eagle Creek has been committed to building durable travel gear that lasts and our warranty is intended to take care of your damaged or broken product.

Our No Matter What® Warranty is extended to the original owner of the item and covers all functional aspects of the product for the life of your gear. No matter what happens to your Eagle Creek travel gear along the way, we are here to get you back to your next adventure as soon as possible.

Our Warranty Covers

Daily use to global travels

Product details.

• Breathable Mono Mesh, ergonomically shaped padded shoulder straps, and padded back panel provide an exceptionally comfortable fit
• Detachable hip pack can be worn solo when you only need a quick spot to stash snacks or keys
• Adjustable sternum strap features innovative safety whistle for peace of mind
• Side stretch pockets to fit your water bottle
• Zipper garages feature reflective hits for nighttime visibility
• Easy-grip zipper pulls improve quick access to the main compartment
• External compression straps can be used to secure a jacket or umbrella, or removed to reflect a sleeker look
• 16" padded laptop compartment helps keep your laptop secure
• Trolley Sleeve on the back allows you to easily secure this pack on top of any dual-handled wheeled travel bag
• Interior padded, zip, and mesh pockets keep small-sized items organized in every way possible
• Interior toggle attachments provide effortless options for Pack-It™ E-Tools Organizer pieces
• Weather-resistant RENU™ fabric is made from 100% recycled textiles and garments, keeping waste out of landfills and making use of unused resources

Specifications

External Dimensions

• 10.75 x 21 x 8.5 in. / 27 x 53 x 21 cm
• 1 lb. 16 oz. / 907 g

Internal Capacity

• 1587 cu. in. / 26 L

This is an estimated capacity determined by a consistent test method to provide a means for understanding and comparing relative volumes. These volumes do not include flat or unenclosed pockets. Actual dimensions and volume may vary slightly by product due to sewing tolerances throughout the production process.

• 100% Recycled RENU™ Polyester
• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.

Get 15% off the Starter Bundle — for first trips and far away with code ROOKIE15

Frequent flyer? Everything you need in one Starter Bundle, now 15% off for a very limited time with code JETSET15

Limited time!

Get 15% off the Starter Bundle — luggage for family travels with code TOGETHER15

• Duffel Bags

Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

Make it a set

Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

Haven Laptop Tote Bag

Luka Large Duffel

Diaper Backpack with Laptop Sleeve

Diaper Tote Bag with Laptop Sleeve

Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-On Luggage

Ambeur Carry-On Luggage

Luka Soft-Sided Carry-On Luggage

Evry Carry-On Luggage

Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage

Trnk Mini Carry-On Luggage

Trnk Carry-On Luggage

Trnk Medium Luggage

Trnk Large Luggage

Trnk Medium Hat Box

Trnk Large Hat Box

Hue Laptop Duffel

Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage

Hue Carry-On Luggage

Hue Front Pocket Carry-On Luggage

Luka Duffel

Convertible Mini Diaper Backpack

Kaya 15 inch Laptop Backpack

Stevyn Duffel Bag with Shoe Compartment

Trnk Vanity Case

Trnk Small Hat Box

Luka Belt Bag

Convertible Stroller Caddy Crossbody

Portable Changing Pad Clutch

Packing Cubes Set (5 Pieces)

Large Clear Cosmetics Case

Terra Sling Bag

Jewelry Case

Stevyn Mini Crossbody Bag

Compakt Duffel Bag

Car Organizer

Insulated Lunch Bag

Water Bottle Holder

Luka Mini Belt Bag

Tech Organizer

Stroller Straps for Diaper Bag (Set of 2)

Description.

• Recycled ripstop polyester with TPU laminate/coating • Adjustable padded shoulder straps w/ sternum strap • Durable carrying handles • Compression straps with buckles • Luggage trolley sleeve • Detachable adjustable shoulder strap • Recycled polyester lining • Clamshell opening • Padded laptop pocket - fits laptops up to 17” • Interior compression strap

• The best of both worlds. The Terra Duffel Backpack is dual wear, easily converting from backpack to duffle and back again. At just 2.7 pounds and featuring padded shoulder and sternum straps, this double purpose pack delivers all of the comfort and none of the bulk. Multiple subtly integrated pockets offer ample space for all your essentials whether you’re camping, traveling, or heading to the gym.

This product is made using 27 recycled plastic bottles. 

Specifications

Materials | Recycled Ripstop Polyester

Weight | 2.9 lbs

Packing Capacity | 26 L

Exterior Dimensions | 18" x 12" x 7.5"

Warranty and Return Policy

• Covered by the 1-Year Limited CALPAK Warranty
• Please check the Return Policy  here

All about the Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

The major details, water-resistant recycled ripstop polyester, 17" padded laptop pocket, adjustable padded shoulder straps, multi-opening configuration, luggage trolley sleeve.

Travel looks good on you.

Terra large 50l duffel backpack.

Terra Laptop Backpack

Terra Small Sling Bag

Terra 45L Carry-On Luggage

As a freelance designer, I'm always running around with my laptop and I feel so safe tucking it away in this bag with my weekend essentials. It's perfect for the plane too and fits under the seat perfectly. Just packed for a 5-day work trip and this is all I needed. I seriously love this backpack. I held off buying for a long time because it is pricey... but it is soooooo worth it. The purple color is so cute, I'm obsessed. I had bought the orange one, but in person it was more of a nude color, so I returned for the purple one! Love!

I purchased this backpack for a trip to Europe. I did not want to have to manage a tote bag over my shoulder and roll my luggage over cobblestone streets and/or carry both up flights of stairs. This was perfect. You can fit a lot of items in this bag, which I did. A little too much. It was hard to fit under the seat of my first flight. Luckily there was enough room in the overhead bin of my second. I was more mindful of this on the flights home, so just be aware that overpacking can easily happen. It doesn’t change how much I love this bag as a personal item. It’s great for organizing all of your items.

I travel a ton for work, but I don’t always feel like bringing a roller bag AND a work backpack. This bag is perfect for those quick trips as I can fit all my work stuff and my clothes etc., and also use it as my work bag. It’s sleek and pretty and I’ve gotten so many compliments — 3 of my colleagues have ordered it as well!!! It’s also great for longer travels… you can really stuff it if you want to. LOVE!!!

I fell in love with the red color of this bag as well as all the pockets to keep things organized BUT I recently used it for a girls weekend to Florida and ONLY packed this bag (no roller carry on) and this bag is AMAZING and a work horse.

I was able to successfully pack; 2 bathing suits, 1 cover up, 3 dresses, denim jacket, a pair of PJs, 2 pairs of sandals, 1 headband, toiletries and makeup, a straw purse, a mini bluetooth speaker, chargers, and jewelry.

In addition, I packed a water bottle and attached a hat to the outside.

If on the fence, BUY-IT. You'll be super impressed and also, if using with a rolling suitcase, the back sleeve that you can use to place on the suitcase is so great.

This is a really great backpack. I love all the small pockets that allows me to organize things much easier than a normal tote bag. This will be my new personal bag when I’m catching flights and my go to bag when packing for small road trips. I loved the Glacier color but I went with Flame to match my red CALPAK luggage . The Flame color is really pretty as well, so you can’t go wrong with any of these colors honestly. I might get the Glacier when I catch it on sale because I wouldn’t mind having two of these backpacks in my household.

Reset my password

Enter the email associated with your account

* Indicates a required field

Become a VIT member—you’ll enjoy exclusive deals, offers, invites, and rewards.

Hi ! Your account has been successfully created. Click here to enter.

Vit rewards.

• Mother's Day Sale

Get 15% OFF when you spend $100+ on select items.

Terms & Conditions

Vit terms and conditions.

Evry Starter Bundle

Luka 15 inch Laptop Backpack

Small Clear Cosmetics Case

Discover bags made for every occasion, which carry-on will you pick.

Stevyn Rolling Duffel

Gold Marble Carry-On Luggage

Find the best organizer for traveling.

Clear Train Case with Top Compartment

Elevate your trip with calpak accessories.

Luka Key Pouch

Portable Charger

Clear Luggage Cover

Luka Zippered Passport Wallet

• Community Gallery

Mobile menu

• Best Sellers
• Insulated Lunch Bags and Coolers
• Crossbody Bags
• Garment Bags
• Toiletry & Makeup Bags
• Shop All Bags
• Mini Carry-On Luggage
• Carry-On Luggage
• Checked Luggage
• Luggage Sets
• Luggage Cover
• Shop All Luggage

Astyll Carry-On Luggage

Terrazzo Carry-On Luggage

• Packing Cubes
• Travel Organizers
• Tech Organizers
• Shop All Organizers

Latest Stories

Love getting there

Explore our best-selling luggage collection and more.

The best duffels for travel.

Our CALPAK duffels shines in its own unique way.

Search results modal

Popular searches, search by category, collections.

You're only $75 away from free shipping!*

Congrats, you get free shipping!*

Mother's day sale.

Medium Clear Cosmetics Case

Luka Expandable Laptop Tote

Compakt Zippered Pouch Set

Compakt Shoe Bag - Set of 2

Medium Compression Packing Cubes

Padded Laptop Sleeve

Compakt Tote Bag

Croc Wallet

Includes: Carry-On and Large Luggage covers

Includes: Carry-On, Medium and Large covers

Ambeur Vanity Case

Luka Mini Backpack

Luka Hanging Toiletry Bag

Notifications (5).

Take 15% OFF orders over $100 when you shop the  Mother's Day Gift Guide

In Full Bloom: Luka Monochrome Collection

Contiguous US orders $75 and over to get free standard shipping.

Start earning on every purchase as a VIT Rewards Member. Sign up

Enjoy 10% OFF your first order. Subscribe now

• Translation missing: en.accessibility.refresh_page
• Translation missing: en.accessibility.link_messages.new_window

U.S. ORDERS $75+ SHIP FREE

• OUR TRAVEL SHOP
• THE ECOPAK COLLECTION
• THE COYOTE COLLECTION
• THE NEW COMPACT CPL
• HIP PACKS & SLINGS
• ACCESS POUCHES
• TRANSIT PACKING CUBE
• ELEMENT DROP IN
• PATCHES & ZIPPER PULLS
• Our Design Process
• Our Fabrics
• Our Product Line
• Protecting Our Home
• Get First Access

Your Cart is Empty

• $0.00 Subtotal

Taxes and shipping calculated at checkout

FREE SHIPPING U.S. ORDERS $75+

CIVIC Travel Bag 26L

A feature-packed bag in a size that transitions beautifully between your daily carry and weekend travel..

The first time we introduced water bottle pockets and a luggage pass-through was with CIVIC Travel Bag 35L , our bestselling one-bag travel solution. Since then, we've heard from you daily about wanting a pared-down version. CIVIC Travel Bag 26L is our solution. Stacked to the brim with signature EVERGOODS 3D pockets, ergonomics, and exceptional fit, CTB26 is a fan-favorite in the making.

✔️  Breathable Back Panel with Luggage Pass-Through ✔️  Stretch Woven Water Bottle Pockets ✔️  Expansive 3D pocket layout ✔️  Solution Dyed Black Textile is  Eco-Friendly ✔️ Durable & Water Resistant

FREE GLOBAL SHIPPING AND LIFETIME WARRANTY

All Bags Sizing Chart

SIZED JUST RIGHT

Feature-packed design in a size that transitions beautifully between your daily carry and weekend travel. Fits in overhead bins and plane seats, but also sits in a standard volume ready for all day comfort.

ULTIMATE BREATHABILITY

Best in class breathability and durability mono-mesh back panel construction. Smooth hand feel plays well with your clothing whether at work or at play.

MORE ECO FRIENDLY

To color their products, most big brands add dyes after the fabric has been developed. For this evolution of the CTB, we solution dyed our custom textile at the polymer stage in the beginning of the supply chain, which uses far fewer resources and produces a longer lasting product.

EXTERIOR PANEL STASH POCKET

Deep, medium volume pocket for quick stash or retrieval of items like glasses case, headphones, light jacket, etc. Pocket has independent volume and is high up on the bag, so it isn’t crowded by other load areas.

DUAL SIDE-UTILITY STRETCH POCKETS

Exterior side pockets built from hard-wearing mountain apparel grade 4-way stretch woven for easy access to gloves, 1 liter water bottles, sunglasses, etc. Holds contents close and expands for larger items.

LUGGAGE PASS-THROUGH

Floating back panel acts as a luggage pass-through. Without any extra parts, zippers, or hardware, CTB26 can drop onto roller luggage for easier travel.

SIGNATURE PANEL LOADING

Full clamshell opening allows for easy packing when loading CTB26. Internal mesh zippered pocket and opaque security pocket with drop-in pockets add additional internal organization.

DURABLE, WEATHER RESISTANT TEXTILES

Cut from the same durable fabric as our mountain line for a lightweight, low-bulk feel. 420d high tenacity nylon 6 main shell fabric with PU knifecoat on back side. Balance weave for equal tear strength in both directions.

Transit Packing Cube 8L

CIVIC Access Pouch 1L

CIVIC Access Pouch 2L

- Front exterior pocket with internal organization - Stretch woven side pockets (fits 1L water bottle) - Luggage pass-through sleeve - Internal padded laptop sleeve is fully suspended on all sides to protect devices up to 17”. - Top yoke external 3D pocket - Front external oversized stash pocket - Side access front pocket includes key leash, one zipper pocket, and two EDC drop in pockets. - Internal 3D security pocket and mesh zipper pocket (fits CAP1) - Internal stretch pocket for folders or books

Small Details - Bias cut panels for improved abrasion resistance or stretch - Differentially cut shoulder straps for natural curve - Aluminum side stay for sturdy side carry - Utility loops outside of top carry handle to temporarily clip/secure smaller items

- Volume: 26L - Weight: 3lbs 6oz (1530g) - Overall dimensions: 19" x 8" x 12"

Materials - Shell fabric: 420d High Tenacity Nylon 6 with Water Repellent Finish - Solution Dyed Black variaion is made from an Eco Friendly Textile . - Lining: 420d HT nylon with PU coating - Shoulder pad foam: Zote EV50 - Frame Sheet: HDPE - Aluminum side stay: 7075 grade - Zippers: YKK #10RC and #8RC with DWR finish

- Asymmetrical laptop pocket allows body contour for comfortable device carry - Easy on body access to contents

Care - Hand wash only - Line dry out of direct sunlight

Warranty - Lifetime

Upgrade your CTB26

• Tour Account ›
• Travel Forum ›
• Travel Forum

A trip to Moscow

I'm going to organize a trip this summer. I want to plan everything. I’ll fly from London to Moscow, and I also want to visit St. Petersburg. Could you, please, advise me what places I should visit? I’ll stay in Moscow for about 10 days before going to St. Petersburg. Thank you!

Not a country I’d be spending my money in at the moment.

Ditto. Ditto!

I don't really see the point of shunning a country because you don't agree with its leader and/or its government. Would you go to Italy? China? Tourist dollars are more likely to get into the hands of the people rather than any corrupt bureaucracy and meeting friendly tourists might just change the locals opinions of foreigners and even give them some information they don't get from local news media.

Hopefully , I won't be starting a war here , but I must say I agree with Chani's comments . Having taken three year visas in 2015 , we have been to Moscow and St; Petersburg ( once to Moscow , and twice to St Petersburg ) . The History , Art , Music ( I am a classically trained musician ) and Culture , fascinate us . Much to experience there and advance preparation is essential , To get a good grounding for your visit , read this lavish and detailed book by Suzanne Massie , it's one of the best ways to immerse yourself in what you will experience - https://www.amazon.com/Land-Firebird-Beauty-Old-Russia/dp/096441841X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521652009&sr=8-1&keywords=land+of+the+firebird+massie&dpID=51CPK13XKGL&preST=_SX218_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch

And while leaders of such countries can point to foreign visitor numbers as a sign of support ? I also believe that personal safety for certain travellers, especially obvious minorities, cannot be guaranteed, as fervent nationalism increases, and tolerance levels evaporate. Just as I may decide against a purchase at the supermarket because of a company’s behaviour, ethics will always be a consideration.

Well, I'd argue supermarket ethics does not readily translate to travel ethics - the latter is far more complex. Personally, I see the whole "vote with my hard-earned travel dollar" approach as overly simplistic, but if it's your position - I totally respect it.

What I don't understand is members volunteering ethical guidance in response to what seems an innocuous request for travel-related information.

Note a discussion on ethics hosted a year ago by the Webmaster of this very forum.

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/general-europe/travel-ethics-612334a0-0ca1-4128-b088-c13d1d8a91c3

I appreciate Rick Steves' point of view in his "Travel As A Political Act". That said, Putin's Russia is not a place I would support. But, to each his or her own....

From a practical point of view, travel between the two countries can be difficult. I understand the Russians who traveled in the US this past winter had to go to the US Embassy in the country of Georgia to get visas because the Russians expelled American embassy personnel. If you do travel to Russia, you may be on your own. See the American travel advisory: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/russia-travel-advisory.html

Travel Advisory January 10, 2018 Russia – Level 3: Reconsider travel Reconsider travel to Russia due to terrorism and harassment. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory U.S. citizens are often victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion by law-enforcement and other officials. U.S. consular assistance to detained individuals is often unreasonably delayed by Russian officials. Russia also enforces special restrictions on dual U.S.-Russian nationals. Due to the Russian government-imposed reduction on U.S. diplomatic personnel in Russia, the U.S. government has reduced ability to provide services to U.S. citizens.

We have traveled to Moscow and St. Petersburg over the past few years. As in the US, most of the people we encountered helpful and not particularly political. In Moscow, we stayed at The Garden Ring Hotel which was a close walk to the metro. The hotel was very comfortable and quiet for being in the city. We loved the art museums and the Georgian restaurants. In St. Petersburg, we stayed at both The 3Mosta hotel near the Hermitage and the Art Hotel Demetra.. In St. Petersburg, we especially liked the Hermitage and Russian museum. Learning the Cyrillic alphabet and having a good map is a must.

As I think the point about ethical considerations has been made, please keep future replies more specific to the question at hand. Thanks.

Either read a good travel book or book a guide who can personally take you to the best places that interest you and tell about the sights you're seeing. We used Dan Petrov on 2 different trips to Moscow and found him to be wonderfully friendly and witty not to mention super knowledgeable.

Latest advice, Australian Governmemt, 1 April 2018. “Due to heightened political tensions, you should be aware of the possibility of anti-Western sentiment or harassment. While the Australian Government is not aware of any increased difficulties for Australians travelling in Russia at this time, you should follow the security and political situation closely and keep up to date with this travel advice. Remain vigilant, avoid any protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.”

We very much enjoyed our group trip to Moscow and St Petersburg last year. excellent guides and accommodations. While Steven who has replied here has excellent advice, ( and we took advantage of it), we felt an organized tour really facilitated our enjoyment of the country. You may want to consider a combination of an organized tour and than adding independent days . Some of the Australians on the tour had arrived a couple of days earlier than the tour stated and then some stayed later. If we were to go again (which I would), that"s how I would do it. And I must say , it was enlightening to have conversations with the Russian tour guides and the non Americans about the current world situation. Not that we went into any great depth, but I think we all went away with a little more understanding. Top places: allow lots of time in St Petersburg at the Hermitage- take a separate day for the Impressionist building. In Moscow, the Russian Art Museum was amazing.

Solid advice from Australian government quoted above, especially the keeping up to date part.

I checked the current version (Sep 18) of that advisory - and it hasn't been updated much. In fact, some sections don't seem to have changed since 2005 - their recommendations for importing/exporting currency and financial instruments, for example, are at least five years behind.

I do like reading governmental travel advisories for entertainment purposes - for instance, up until very recently the US one sternly advised potential travelers that Moscow was largely a cash-based economy (couldn't be further from the truth) and warned about intrinsic dangers of gypsy cabs (which had all but disappeared by 2015).

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

EVERGOODS Civic Travel Bag 26L (CTB26) Review

The EVERGOODS Civic Travel Bag 26L has durable materials, thoughtful organization, and a comfortable carry that’s great for weekend trips and longer journeys.

Our Verdict

Save time. Get access to brief summaries of our reviews so you can browse and make decisions more efficiently.

Join Pack Hacker Pro or, Sign In

• Durable materials and reliable hardware
• Comfortable harness system with most uses
• Versatile internal organization
• Shoulder straps can get a little sweaty
• Some users don’t like the hook-and-loop fastener logo
• It’s not the cheapest pack on the market

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 125/145 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)

3.37 lb (1.5 kg)

19 in x 8 in x 12 in (48.3 x 20.3 x 30.5 cm)

Notable Materials

Nylon, HDPE Plastic, Aluminum, Polyurethane, YKK Zippers, DWR Coating

Manufacturing Country

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

EVERGOODS Lifetime Warranty

Full Review

In the past, EVERGOODS gear has been some of our favorites in terms of design and organization, and the brand is known for using durable materials, which means the products are built to last. We’re curious if we’ll see those same great features we love on the Civic Travel Bag 35L and how they translate into use with a smaller capacity on this bag. Let’s dive in!

External Components

The primary pack material is 420D nylon, which is durable, handles water well, and looks sleek and professional. Seriously, this stuff can do it all. It’s pretty malleable but holds its shape well, which is a good combination for travel. You can work with it to get gear where you need it to go, but it retains its shell, so it looks minimalistic no matter where you take it.

We’ve got YKK zippers throughout the pack, which we’ve seen from EVERGOODS before. YKK is one of the best in the business, so there’s nothing to complain about here—the zippers work well. The pulls are basic but adequate. They stay out of your way when you aren’t using them and are easy to find when necessary.

The plastic hardware is from Duraflex and, similar to the zippers, there isn’t anything bad to say here; they get the job done, plain and simple.

On the bottom left of the pack’s front face, there’s an EVERGOODS logo. If you aren’t familiar, the logo has no words or even an actual design; it’s a square piece of hook-and-loop fastener with a line running through it. You can add a patch here to customize the bag or leave it blank, which looks nice, too. In the office, this is a fairly polarizing feature. Whereas some folks like the customizability and don’t mind the minimalistic logo, others don’t like the look. Depending on your preference, you’ll sit on one side of the fence or the other, though we don’t think it’s a dealbreaker.

On either side, there’s a water bottle pocket made of stretchy mesh. The top is a tighter fabric, which holds onto bottles nicely. You can fit a 32-ounce Nalgene bottle here, which is ideal for travel if you like to stay hydrated. When the bag is fully packed, it can be challenging to slide larger bottles inside. However, if you place the bottle before stuffing the pack, you can still fit it most of the time. Getting a skinnier travel water bottle might make sense for travelers who tend to stuff their backpacks full.

A luggage pass-through on the back panel is easy to use and stays out of your way when you aren’t using it. It’s wide, so your bag won’t bounce around while connected to your carry on luggage or packed bag. However, similar to the CTB35, using this feature negates the use of one of the water bottle pockets.

There’s a handle on the top and side of the pack. Both are pretty well hidden; they don’t get in your way while you use the bag, which is handy. They aren’t the most comfortable to hang onto for extended periods, but after all, this is a backpack, and you’ll be carrying it on your back most of the time. Including two handles is handy for the overhead bin on the airplane and public transportation.

The shoulder straps are amply padded and feature an S-curve, which will mold to most, but not all, body types. Some users have noted that they’re noticeably wide at the top but not uncomfortably so.

No mesh or noticeable aeration is built into the straps, but they’re still comfortable and don’t get too hot in average weather.

The back panel is amply padded, too, and comfortable. It flexes well to mold to your back, no matter your torso size. It’s crafted from 50D monofilament, which breathes reasonably well for how it looks. You wouldn’t guess that when you first saw it, though, which was a fun surprise for an all-black pack.

Behind the back panel and luggage pass-through, there’s a rigid HDPE plastic frame sheet to add structure and help disperse weight. You can remove it while tinkering around inside the laptop compartment, but it doesn’t add much weight, so we’d recommend leaving it.

Inside The Bag

Speaking of the laptop compartment, you can access it from the side of the pack. Typically, we don’t love this design because it makes us anxious that the laptop can fall out. Although this hasn’t happened to anyone at Pack Hacker HQ (yet), others online have had it happen. Luckily, on the EVERGOODS CTB26, a hook-and-loop fastener holds the laptop in place. Plus, it’s red, so you’re more likely to see if the laptop compartment is open than if it were gray like the rest of the liner. It’s a small addition but a welcomed one.

You can store more than just your laptop here, too. There’s enough space for a large book, notebook, or other oversized flat items. There’s a zipper garage on the zipper track, which is handy to ensure no water sneaks inside to ruin your laptop or other gear stowed in the compartment.

A vertical front pocket acts as a large secondary compartment. All the organization orients towards that opening, allowing you to access this one while you’ve got the pack on one shoulder or while it’s resting on your rolling suitcase via the luggage pass-through. Using it while the bag is straight up and down can feel awkward, but it isn’t impossible. Two liner pockets are inside, one large and one small, and a zippered mesh pocket. This is a lovely spot to lock down gear you don’t want buzzing around in the rest of the compartment, which is big enough that we’ve lost track of smaller items. We’ve also got a key leash inside here, which is handy and red, so it’s highly visible.

We’ve got a top quick-access compartment, too. Although not as big as the other two secondary pockets, you can fit a lot of gear inside here. There’s no organization, but you can house your daily essentials here to keep your pockets free from clutter.

Additionally, a yoke pocket on the top of the pack is perfect for stashing extra goodies while you’re in transit, whether you’re heading through security at the airport or need to snag your bus pass to get to work. There’s no organization here, which makes it suitable for larger items, like a sunglasses case.

The main compartment has a clamshell opening, which enables you to get into the nitty gritty of gear organization. That said, there is some segmentation here to help you out.

There’s a zippered pocket on the lid with two smaller pockets inside, one large and one small. Below that, we’ve got another mesh storage area with a zippered topper. This one is quite large, so you can stow more items here. Because of the mesh, it’s a good spot for socks and underwear for a trip or any larger gear you don’t want bouncing around the main compartment.

On the back side, there’s a stretchy mesh pocket. It snaps back fairly quickly and firmly, so you can put large or small items here. It’s an excellent spot to lock down larger gear that won’t fit inside any of the zippered areas of the pack.

Above that, there are some attachment spots. There are two three-loop daisy chains so that you can attach gear with a strap, carabiner, or other method. If you don’t want to use them, they stay out of your way, which is ideal.

There isn’t any other organization in the main compartment, so you might want to use packing cubes or a tech pouch to stay organized on longer trips. This isn’t a pack that will do your organization for you, but some travelers prefer that. Not including wholesale organizational features makes this pack more versatile and enables users to keep themselves together. Plus, it’s sleek, so you’ll look good doing it.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

• The materials feel durable, water-resistant, and capable for travel
• There’s a ton of pockets and organization without muddling up the 26-liter capacity
• We’re amped to try the harness system—it looks comfortable
• No issues with the materials or hardware
• The pack does pretty well when put into the elements
• We’re digging the internal organization

Get your questions about the EVERGOODS Civic Travel Bag 26L (CTB26) answered from our team and the Pro Community right here on the page. Plus, join discussions with other members about gear, guides, and more.

Sign up to get our 5 Minimalist Travel Hacks Guide. Plus, a weekly digest of our newest content in the newsletter.

Connect in a new country with an eSIM. Check it out →