travel backpacks clamshell

10 Best Clamshell Backpacks in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

It’s no secret that the majority of backpacks are top-loading. This means they create a sort of a bucket within the main compartment, where you’re expected to stack stuff on top of each other vertically. Did you put a scarf beneath your backpack? Well too bad, before you can reach it, you’ll have to remove everything on top. The other backpack design, front-loading is to provide a complete clamshell opening to the main compartment rather than conventional top-loading entry. Such clamshell backpacks have a central front-loading pocket with a sliding zipper covering 3 of the 4 sides. Like a travel backpack that opens up like a suitcase , a clamshell backpack opens vertically.

The most crucial thing to note is that you are going to move your backpack from place to place many days a week, so make sure it is stable and is of paramount importance to protect your back, shoulders, and waist. You ‘re probably going to find yourself unpacking and repacking your backpack at least once a day while living in hostels, so you’re going to want to make sure it’s quick and simple. Clamshell backpacks usually provide more protection than top-loading. They are also typically often crafted from a much tougher material than their top-loading counterparts.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 12 hrs of research

Hynes Eagle 38L Flight Approved Weekender Carry on Backpack – Best Value

Why is it better?

• The convertible aspect really is nice
• It opens like regular luggage, no digging through an opening at the top and turning your careful packing into a lump heap
• The pockets are great for organization
• The side clips are great for minimizing your backpack

Timbuk2 Blink Pack – Premium Pick

• Lots of space
• Very deep central compartment and specialized laptop area in the back
• The water bottle pocket at the front easily fits a 40 oz hydroflask
• Top haul loop is very sturdy and thick

Best Clamshell Backpacks – Overview

One of the main aspects to remember when you buy a backpack is front loading (clamshell design) vs top loading. Since that defines how you move stuff inside and outside the backpack, it will have a major effect on how comfortable you carry the bag over time. They ‘re all designed differently and may affect how well the backpack fits with the specific scenario and type of travel. Front-loading also referred to as clamshell, implies that the central compartment opens up close to the way suitcases do, and you have a wide room for dealing with. Top loading involves opening up the backpack at the top, usually allowing you a smaller gap.

Clamshell Backpacks Reviews

1. eagle creek global companion travel backpack.

The Eagle Creek Global Companion Travel Backpack will take you from the mountains of Kilimanjaro to the scenic streets of Copenhagen in a rugged fashion and secure design. Constructed from 450D Geo Ripstop. Zip closure with self-repairing lockable zippers featuring easy-grip zipper pulls is designed to keep working for you trip after trip.

Lockable top zippers can be double secured with a small padlock looped through the Central Lock Point. Top, bottom, and side haul handle enable easy pickup from any angle. Shoulder straps, back panel, and hip belt are designed ergonomically for maximum comfort with padding and moisture-wicking to reduce sweat on the body. Sternum strap features a safety whistle. Traditional suitcase style butterfly opening reveals two zippered peek-through mesh packing compartments including one with an additional mesh pocket for organization. Make sure you also check our selection of the best travel backpacks .

Key Features:

• Dual interior compartments
• Padded shoulder straps
• Bi-Tech fabric base

Specifications:

• Brand: Eagle Creek
• Capacity: 40L
• Dimensions: 21.5″ H x 13.75″ W x 8″ D
• Weight: 3.56 lbs
• The pockets on the front are very helpful for chargers and other small items
• The bag stretches plenty so even when it seems like the zipper won’t close it can be squashed down
• It opens like a butterfly with each side separate from the other for easier organization of clothes
• Rain cover is included in the backpack
• There is not much air flow to your back, so you usually end up at your destination a bit sweaty

2. Hynes Eagle 38L Flight Approved Weekender Carry on Backpack – Best Value

The Hynes Eagle 38L Flight Approved Weekender Carry on Backpack is designed to fit the allowed maximum size of most IATA flights, fit in the overhead compartment as well as the under-seat storage in flight. Hide-away contoured backpack straps are well padded with air mesh, you can carry it comfortably like a backpack or also can easily convert it into a carry on duffel bag. Exterior compression straps are carefully placed to provide maximum compression and reduced stress on the zippers.

The zippered front pocket is perfect for boarding passes and will not “walk open” no matter how long your journey. Features interior slot pockets for travel essentials, from passport to tablet. Inner tie-down straps in the main compartment are generous in length and adjust from “high” to “low” cinch positions, keeping belongings from shifting.

• 4 compression straps
• Front organizer pockets
• Hide away shoulder straps
• Multiple carrying options
• Brand: Hynes Eagle
• Capacity: 38L
• Dimensions: 19.7″ H x 13″ W x 7.9″ D
• Weight: 1.76 lbs
• No water bottle pocket

3. AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack

Ultra-flexible, lightweight, and durable, the AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack makes a great choice for savvy travelers. Made of durable polyester, the travel pack functions as an unstructured suitcase that can be quickly converted into a backpack. This carry-on travel backpack offers a roomy and well-organized main compartment that’s secured shut with double zippers and four external compression straps. Unzipped, the inside flap offers a full-width zippered mesh compartment—great for larger items or keeping contents separate from the main compartment.

The travel backpack comes with padded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying. For secure placement, the travel bag offers an adjustable sternum strap and a waist belt, both of which can be removed if preferred. The backpack shoulder straps disconnect easily and store out of the way in a zippered back pocket, allowing the bag to be checked or carried like a suitcase. The travel pack also comes with a removable shoulder strap for more carrying options. You may also be interested in some of the best travel backpacks for carry on from our list, so check them out.

• Main compartment with zippered mesh space
• Front pocket and front-top pocket for easy access
• Well-placed exterior handles
• Brand: AmazonBasics
• Dimensions: 21.5″ H x 15.75″ W x 8.25″ D
• Weight: 3.64 lbs
• Comfortable shoulder straps and back cushioning
• Comes with shoulder strap, waist strap, sternum strap, backpack straps, and two handles
• Includes internal padded laptop storage compartment
• Includes zippered expandable storage
• No side pouch for water bottle

4. Timbuk2 Blink Pack – Premium Pick

An extremely functional Weekender, the Timbuk2 Blink Pack is a big bag trapped in a little bag’s body. Thoughtful design details make it carry more than expected. The sleek shape means you’ll fit in anywhere you go. Super cushy backpack straps have hidden suspension for support, and air mesh back panel keeps your shirts crisp, and a large clamshell opening eliminates un/packing stress so you can really getaway.

Side compression straps allow for cinching the bag smaller when lightly loaded, and serve as a strap to cinch a jacket or sweater when you need just a bit more space inside. They make great sports to clip accessories as well. Rear zippered pocket with suspended padding for a 15″ computer as well as additional zippered slip pockets for accessories you may need.

• A clamshell opening Weekender pack
• Internal organizer for pens, phones, and other small stuff
• Padded laptop compartment fits 15-inch laptop
• Grab handle for easy lifting
• Water-resistant 420D ripstop
• Brand: Timbuk2
• Capacity: 24L
• Dimensions: 20.9″ H x 11″ W x 3.9″ D
• Weight: 1.54 lbs
• Chest strap is thin

5. WUAYUR Clamshell Backpack

The WUAYUR Clamshell Backpack is made of high-quality water-resistant polyester fabric which means water-resistant and you can wipe the dirty stains easily with a wet cloth. It can protect your belongings perfectly on rainy days. The excellent sewing workmanship makes the backpack more durable and strong to use. Padded soft top handle and luggage belt for easy carrying.

With a double-sided zipper, you can choose to close your laptop backpack in any directions, offering you a more convenient using experience. Ergonomic S-shaped padded shoulder strap and fully 3D ventilation padded back make your shoulder stress released and protect your back and shoulder effectively even when fully loaded.

• High-density water-resistant cloth
• Many pockets
• Built-in USB port
• Padded laptop compartment
• Ergonomic padded shoulder straps
• Brand: WUAYUR
• Capacity: 23-40L
• Dimensions: 18.9″ H x 11.2″ W x 10″ D
• Weight: 3 lbs
• Numerous compartments – helps you get organized
• Laptop compartment is separate from the rest
• Comfortable on the back
• Expandable – you can choose to collapse or expand it as needed
• No pocket for water bottle

6. Mark Ryden 40L Carry-on Travel Clamshell Backpack

The Mark Ryden 40L Carry-on Travel Clamshell Backpack is not only a travel backpack with maximum size allowed on an IATA flight but also a great choice for a weekender trip, providing taking planes, trains and buses. The padded straps work well to reduce bulk. With multiple layers, sturdy meshes, special compartments, keep all your stuff organized. This bag is also enough to be used as a work and gym backpack .

After extending, roomy main compartment big enough like roller luggage can hold up to 3-4 days clothing. Velvet laptop and table sleeves can protect your electronic products, up to a 17.3-inch laptop. Front pockets could hide away your stuff, multiple interior slip pockets and one mesh pocket for your travel essentials. USB charging port allows you to free your hand when charging your electronic device for your convenience.

• Multi-panel airflow design
• Adjustable waist straps
• Luggage strap
• Brand: Mark Ryden
• Dimensions: 19.7″ H x 12.2″ W x 6″ D
• Weight: 2 lbs
• The bag has clean modern design lines
• A lot of pockets
• Waterproof effect
• The zippers sometimes get caught

7. KOPACK Travel Clamshell Backpack

KOPACK Travel Clamshell Backpack is made with high-density oxford + PU coated oxford Water Resistant & Anti Scratch fabric, with silky lining. Comes with ergonomic S-shape design padded shoulder straps and fully 3D ventilation padded back, with high elastic and breathable sponge and fabric, protect your back and shoulder effectively even when fully loaded.

Durable and soft handle with double stitching, comfortable, and easy to carry by hand. The top pocket is designed for a sunglass box and other items, convenient for storing your frequently use things and keep the shape. Back hidden Anti-thief pocket wholly hidden in an integrated foam padded back panel, safety to keep valuable items.

• 3d ventilated padded back
• Quick-access top pocket
• Brand: Kopack
• The side zipper pouch has an accordion lining
• Lots of compartments
• Comfortable and easy to carry
• Material feels good
• Not much organizing stuff for pens

8. Extreme Pak 22-Inch Carry-On Clamshell Backpack

Extreme Pak 22-Inch Carry-On Clamshell Backpack is a multi-use travel bag whose practical utility and stylish design store belongings efficiently whether exploring the world or running down educational dreams. This unique travel backpack has 2 luggage handles for easy lifting and it unzips from the front just like a typical suitcase.

It is spacious and made with a tightly-woven 1,200 Denier 100% polyester black water-resistant fabric, contoured adjustable shoulder straps, and a belt strap for increased back support. Featuring the elongated rucksack-type style of knapsack utilized by campers and hikers, this lightweight carryall piece of affordable luggage weighs 2.2 pounds and lets you tackle all of life’s challenges head-on.

• 2 luggage handles
• 1,200 Denier 100% polyester fabric
• Contoured adjustable shoulder straps
• Elongated rucksack-type style of knapsack
• Brand: Extremepak
• Dimensions: 22″ H x 14″ W x 9″ D
• Weight: 2.2 lbs
• It is very well made, sturdy, the zippers are large
• Its compact for the size as its well thought out
• The belt strap is made so that you can tuck the shoulder straps under it
• The shoulder straps are nicely made
• The material of the inner dividers feels cheap and flimsy

9. Rangeland Clamshell Backpack

This Rangeland Clamshell Backpack  is durable yet lightweight, made of 100% Polyester for a heat-resistant, wrinkle-resistant, and dust-resistant luggage backpack. Designed with padded adjustable shoulder straps with high permeability to decrease the amount of sweat and allow you to carry your clamshell bag for extended periods of time.

Its back trolley straps allow you to attach it to your luggage when on vacation, as well as 4 compression straps that close tight to keep your daypack compact and sleek. The main compartment of this bag includes 1 velcro pocket, 2 pen pockets, 2 slip pockets, and more. Also, the main compartment has X-shaped garment restraints as well as a zippered padded compartment that can hold a laptop

• Multiple exterior compression buckle straps 
• Multiple interior slip pockets
• Back trolley straps
• X-shaped garment restraints
• Brand: Rangeland
• Capacity: 17L
• Dimensions: 17″ H x 12″ W x 5.25″ D
• Weight: 1.3 lbs
• The handle is comfortable
• Flattens well for packing into a larger backpack or suitcase for travel
• It’s very lightweight and simple
• Compression straps on the sides to squish it down to size if you need that
• The material and zippers seem just “ok” quality

10. Cateep Travel Laptop Backpack

This Cateep Travel Laptop Backpack is more than a backpack that is designed to fit the maximum size allowed on an IATA flight. Adjustable waist straps and breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge passing help relieve the stress from your shoulder. It’s a thoughtfully designed pack suitable for commuting to work or for travel.

The three front pockets could help you hide-away your stuff, such as a water bottle, keys, and your phone, etc. The front compartment has multiple interior slip pockets and one mesh pocket for your travel essentials. A roomy main compartment with two zippered mesh space, which is similar to the suitcase so that you could organize your things well. Within the extra room created by the zip-out expansion, you can pack with extra items if you need them. Our guide to the best tech backpacks offers more great products like this.

• It has extra zipper compresses pack
• Strap at the back
• Hide-away backpack straps
• Durable polyester
• Brand: Cateep
• Capacity: 35L
• Dimensions: 13.86″ H x 10.55″ W x 5.35″ D
• Weight: 2.69 lbs
• Tons of pockets and space
• It’s easy to carry in a variety of ways
• It’s comfortable as a backpack even when fully loaded
• There is a cord in one of the compartments thst you plug your own battery pack/power management device into
• Little reflective tag which says “fashion”

Buying Guide

Tough materials such as canvas, ripstop nylon, or high-end synthetics are the hallmarks of a premium backpack. Be sure that it’s constructed of water-resistant and fast-dry fabrics for those unavoidable rain slogs. Go for an aluminum frame because of its lightweight, robust properties. Since these are the first pieces to give way, look for double or triple stitching along the strap seams as well.

Well looked after and luxurious brands continue to make great backpacks as one would expect. Nonetheless, stop using a brand name to buy a bag on its own. To ensure you choose the best possible backpack for you, it’s important to take in all the related characteristics. Nevertheless resist the urge to buy suspiciously inexpensive, no-name brands. It can appear the same but lower stitching, fabrics, and style can cause it to fall apart easily. As a consequence, you’ll have to fork cash over even sooner than expected on a substitution.

Apart from the shoulders, flexible straps for the hip and chest would go a fair way in your ultimate comfort. Be sure they’re lined enough, then put on the set and see if it suits the body. A breathable mesh behind the back performs well in hot conditions, can help reduce sweat buildup as well.

Keep an eye out for any pockets you think may be required. External compartments are great for quick access to passports or mobile phones, while outer cords are needed to tie on bulky camper gear. A dedicated laptop sleeve could prevent a sticky travel insurance claim if you travel with a laptop. A water bottle pocket holder is also a great addition if you plan on bringing a water bottle.

Carry-on backpacks are gaining traction as more airlines continue charging passengers for checked baggage. In fact, you’ll have to wait for the carousel luggage to avoid the risk that the airline will lose all of your gear. The downside is you are going to be severely spatially restricted. You’ll get 40 liters at maximum, which is enough for a few clothes and a limited amount of gadgets. Although it differs from carrier to carrier, most airlines require measurements of about 22 x 14 x 9′′.

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best clamshell backpacks as well as our guide on features to look for in a clamshell backpack. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.

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 snugly 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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• Educational Backpacks
• Backpacks For Girls
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7 Best Clamshell Backpack in 2022

The backpack is an excellent choice for any student who wants to transport books and other items around campus.

With an adjustable and detachable padded harness that can be worn over your shoulders or the front of your body, it’s simple to pose for shots without seeming to be wearing anything big!

Even though a lot is happening around us simultaneously, the clamshell shape keeps everything safe and secure so that nothing falls out when we walk somewhere new (like during lunchtime).

Furthermore, these packs include pockets designed to carry various sorts of gear, such as pads, organizers, and other such items.

In the market for a new backpack, you may be thinking about whether a clamshell backpack is the best option for you. If you are, read on to find out more.

The popularity of clamshell backpacks has increased in recent years. For a good reason – they provide several advantages over other sorts of backpacks that other types of backpacks do not.

When deciding whether to get a clamshell backpack, consider whether you’ll be going to school or working. So, whether you’re going to school or working, be sure to check out our top selections for the best clamshell backpacks!

See Also: 5 Best Fly Fishing Backpack in 2021

Table of Contents

Our top picks for the Best Clamshell backpack

• Duo 20 Liter
• Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
• Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack
• Rangeland Travel Backpack
• Extreme Pak 22-Inch Carry-On Bag
• KOPACK Travel Backpack
• Mark Ryden Carry on Travel Backpack

1. Duo 20 Liter

Product Specifications

• Manufacturer:  WANDRD
• Item Weight:  3.4 pounds
• Department:  Unisex-adult
• Color:  Black

Designed for travel, photography, and vacation, the WANDRD Duo is an ultra-minimalist clamshell backpack ideal for organizing your daily essentials and keeping your belongings safe and secure.

It is constructed of water-resistant ballistic nylon and water-resistant zippers to withstand the rigors of everyday life while on the go.

What distinguishes the Duo from those other clamshell backpacks is its unique “infinite zip” design, which allows you access from both sides of the pack while also allowing you to protrude the entire backpack flat so that you can easily reach the compartments that line the interior.

Because of its side-access feature, as well as a specially designed incorporated pop-up camera cube, the WANDRD Duo may be utilized as a full-fledged backpack when necessary.

Product Features

• Access to the side camera is simple.
• Laptop and tablet sleeve with padding.
• Zip access system with an infinite number of users.
• The backpack has a capacity of 20L.
• The backpack has a special “pop up” camera cube to take pictures.
• Zipp’s quality is not up to the mark.

2. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Manufacturer:  Cotopaxi
• Department:  Unisex
• Weight:  3.5 lbs.

If you wish to travel in the most fashionable manner possible in the future, then have a look at the Cotopaxi Allpa 35. Despite its small size, this strong, compact bag is built to withstand the most rigorous use, and the interior has been precisely arranged to make packing a breeze.

TPU coated 1000 Denier Polyester is nothing to scoff at, and it surely isn’t cheap. It can withstand drops, drops, and pulls with ease, and when the clouds roll in, there’s a hood to keep the rain out of your eyes. However, while all this protection increases the total weight, you are left with a virtually bombproof bag.

In addition, the overall arrangement is excellent. You will discover a main zippable mesh compartment for your bigger goods (clothing), as well as multiple smaller zipped mesh pockets on the other side for all of your extra gear after you have entered the suitcase-style zippered bag.

(All exterior zippers are equipped with security mesh to deter anyone from opening your bag and removing any valuables from it.)

If you’re in a hurry or don’t enjoy zippering your clothes all the time, this might be an obstacle to your progress.

However, the clever organizing outshines this handicap since there seems to be a bespoke location for just about every piece of gear, even your laptop.

After all, is said and done, this is a very fashionable pack that can withstand both city and outdoor travel without losing its cool.

• On the right side, there is a large zipped mesh compartment.
• The main compartment is accessible via a shortcut zipper.
• A zipped pocket on the outside of the bag.
• YKK zippers for added security.
• for further durability.
• All apertures are secured with theft-proof webbing.
• Extremely long-lasting.
• Everything virtually packs itself since it is so well arranged.
• It’s rather heavy given its size.
• The hip belt appears to have been added as an afterthought and is onl

3. Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack

• Manufacturer:  Osprey Packs
• Item Weight:  3.09 Pounds
• Color:  Mist grey, Rainforest Green, Black

Take a look at the characteristics listed above for the Osprey Farpoint and imagine them in a backpack specifically built for women.

This versatile, all-in-one bag performs admirably on the trail while serving as a perfectly acceptable solution for city travel.

The bag is genuinely jam-packed with convenient, intuitive, and practical features, which easily elevates it to the top of my list of the best women’s backpacks for travel carry-on purposes. It’s also one of the best hiking backpacks on the market.

The Osprey’s wonderfully comfortable netting shoulder and waist belt make toting this backpack over concrete or dusty trails a breeze, and the waist belt even has its stash pocket in case you need to hide anything small.

The bag’s material is also built to last, with ripstop nylon that should withstand anything from airport jostling to wild escapades while still looking nice enough for your occasional city excursions.

• A secure U-zip duffel-style closure provides access to the main compartment.
• Most airlines have carry-on size requirements, and this item complies.
• Access to the cushioned laptop and tablet sleeve is provided via a lockable zipper.
• A zipped back flap protects the shoulder straps and hip belt.
• Two mesh water bottle pockets on the front.
• Scratch-free pocket for sunglasses or other small electronic items.
• Osprey offers a lifetime warranty on its products.
• Design that is simple and functional for city travel.
• Compared to other backpack travel bags, this one has fewer inside compartments for organizing.

4. Rangeland Travel Backpack

• Manufacturer:  Rangeland
• Item Weight:  1.3 pounds
• Color:  Multi-Color options

Made of 100 percent Polyester, this Rangeland Backpack is robust and lightweight. It is heat-resistant, wrinkle-resistant, and dust-resistant, making it an excellent baggage backpack.

Constructed with cushioned adjustable shoulder straps that have excellent permeability to reduce the amount of sweat produced and allow you to handle your clamshell bag for long periods without feeling fatigued

With the help of its back trolley straps, you can connect it to your baggage when traveling, and it has four compression straps that keep your daypack sleek and stylish.

The main section of this bag has several pockets, including one with velcro closure, two open pockets, two slip pockets, and more.

Apart from that, the main compartment is equipped with X-shaped garment restraints and a zipped cushioned section that may accommodate a laptop computer.

• There are several outside compression buckle straps.
• There are several slip pockets on the inside.
• Straps for the back trolley.
• Garment constraints in the shape of an X.
• The handle is easy to grip.
• Packs down small enough to fit in a bigger bag or luggage.
• It’s light and easy to use.
• Straps on the sides can be used for compression if necessary.
• Material and zippers appear to be of OK quality.

5. Extreme Pak 22-Inch Carry-On Bag

• Manufacturer:  Extreme Pak
• Item Weight:  2.2 pounds
• Color:  Dark Black

A 22-inch clamshell carry-on suitcase from Extreme Pak is a versatile travel bag with practical functionality and elegant design that allows you to keep your items conveniently while traveling the world or pursuing your educational aspirations.

In addition to having two luggage handles for effortless lifting, this one-of-a-kind travel backpack also unzips from the front, exactly like a traditional suitcase.

A tightly woven 1,200 Denier 100 percent polyester dark water-resistant material, curved detachable shoulder straps, and a waist strap for improved back support are all featured in this spacious bag.

This lightweight carryall piece of budget luggage, designed in the extended rucksack-type shape popular among campers and hikers, weighs just 2.2 pounds and allows you to take on any of life’s difficulties head-on with confidence.

• There are two baggage handlers.
• Denier 1,200 Denier The fabric is made entirely of polyester.
• Shoulder straps that are contoured and adjustable.
• A backpack in the manner of a rucksack that is elongated.
• It is extremely well-constructed sturdy, and the zippers are large.
• Because it is carefully thought out, it is surprisingly small for its size.
• The belt strap is designed to fit the shoulder straps under it.
• Moreover, the shoulder straps are of high quality.
• The material used for the inside dividers has a cheap and fragile feel.

6. KOPACK Travel Backpack

• Brand:  Kopack
• Item Weight:  ‎2.2 pounds
• Color:  ‎Grey Black

Kopack Travel Clamshell Backpack is constructed of high-density Oxford fabric, PU coated Oxford fabric that is water-resistant and anti-scratch and has a silky interior lining.

With ergonomic S-shape design cushioned shoulder straps and a completely 3D ventilation padded back, made of high stretchable and breathable foam and fabric, this backpack efficiently protects your back and shoulders even when you’re carrying a lot of weight.

Handle made of durable and soft material with double stitching, which is pleasant and simple to hold by hand.

Designed to hold a sunglass box and other accessories, the top pocket is ideal for keeping goods that you regularly use while maintaining the bag’s form.

The back is concealed. An anti-thief compartment completely concealed behind an integrated foam cushioned back panel provides security for precious belongings.

• 3D vented cushioned back for comfort.
• There is a built-in USB port.
• Laptop compartment with padding.
• Top pocket with easy access.
• The accordion lining of the side zipper pouch is a nice touch.
• There are several compartments.
• It’s comfortable to wear and transport.
• The material has a pleasant feel to it.
• For pens, there isn’t much in the way of organization.

7. Mark Ryden Carry on Travel Backpack

• Manufacturer:  MARK RYDEN
• Item Weight:  2.56 pounds

The Mark Ryden Clamshell Bag is not only a travel backpack that meets the maximum size permitted on an IATA aircraft, but it is also an excellent choice for a weekender excursion that includes travel by plane, train, and bus, as well as other modes of transportation.

The cushioned straps do an excellent job of reducing bulk. Keep your belongings organized with various layers, durable meshes, and specific storage spaces. This bag is also adequate to be used as a work and gym backpack.

After stretching, a spacious main compartment large enough to accommodate three to four days’ worth of clothing may be accommodated. Laptop and tablet sleeves made of velvet can protect electrical devices, including a 17.3-inch laptop.

Several internal slip compartments and one netting pocket for travel need to complement the front pockets’ storage capabilities. When charging your electronic gadget using a USB charging port, you may free up your hand and do other things simultaneously.

• There is a USB port.
• A multi-panel airflow design has been implemented.
• Waist straps that can be adjusted.
• A luggage strap is included.
• The bag features a simple, modern style with clear lines.
• There are a lot of pockets.
• Expandable.
• The ability to withstand water.
• Occasionally, the zippers become entangled.

How to buy a Clamshell backpack: A brief Buying Guide

Finding the best travel bag for you requires considering which qualities are the most essential to you and your trip companions. Here are some facts to keep in mind:

More and more airlines are beginning to charge customers for checked luggage, encouraging travelers to bring their bags.

In reality, you’ll have to wait for your luggage to arrive on the carousel to prevent the possibility that the airline will misplace all of your belongings.

The drawback is that you will be severely confined in spatial availability. You’ll get a maximum of 40 liters, which is plenty for a few changes of clothing and a small number of electronic devices.

2- Material

A premium backpack is distinguished by durable materials like ripstop nylon, canvas, or high-end synthetic materials. Ensure that it is made of water-resistant and quick-drying materials in inevitable rain slogs and mud puddles.

Aluminum frames are a good choice because of their lightweight and strong qualities. Because they are the first components to give way, double or triple stitching should be found along the strap seams.

Aside from the shoulders, adjustable straps for the hips and chest would make a significant difference in your overall level of comfort. Check to check that they are sufficiently lined, then try on the set to see whether it fits the body.

A breathable mesh behind the back works well in hot circumstances, but it may also decrease perspiration buildup in certain situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a clamshell bag?

The result is that they form a sort of “bucket” inside the main pocket, forcing you to stack items vertically on top of one another.

Are clamshell backpacks a worthwhile investment?

The Clam Shell backpack is a high-quality backpack meant to be lightweight, comfy, and adaptable.

Is it preferable to roll or fold your clothes while packing a suitcase?

Clothes consisting of natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and wool should always be folded as a rule of thumb.

The greatest clamshell backpack is the one that meets your specific requirements. If you can locate what you’re searching for and personalize it to suit your lifestyle, it doesn’t matter whether it’s from a high-end brand or not. Consider all of these characteristics before making any selections about which bag will be the best fit for you.

Belle A. Macha

Belle A. Macha is a professional blog writer specializing in Backpacks. She writes every blog covering the latest trends and styles in backpacks, bags, and everyday carry according to her own experiences and extensive research.

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The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These spacious and comfortable carry-on backpacks can easily replace a suitcase.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Skip the stress of checking in a bag or lugging a traditional carry-on suitcase around an airport by adding a carry-on backpack to your travel gear. Practical, functional, and hassle-free, a carry-on backpack can fit up to a week’s worth of clothes, depending on your wardrobe and packing prowess. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or embarking on a weekend getaway, this style helps make your trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

We tested dozens of carry-on backpacks and evaluated them based on traits like capacity, comfort, durability, and design. First, we tested the backpacks in our New York City lab and utilized our airplane set complete with row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins. We then took them out into the world for six months to further test each bag on a variety of trips. From rugged to sleek styles, we tested plenty of carry-on backpacks ranging in design and size that impressed us.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

The backpack has an unstructured style that makes it easy to pack clothing and accessories, plus a plethora of thoughtful features catered to frequent travelers.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

Salt Lake City-based outdoor gear brand Cotopaxi builds brightly colored clothing and accessories to last. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with its perfect performance in all categories of our testing. We loved its high capacity and thought the unstructured style was ideal for wedging clothes into every corner, maximizing packing space in the clamshell-style compartments. The shell is made of a TPU-coated 1000D polyester with a rubbery feel, and although it feels resistant to liquids, the backpack comes with a rain cover to ensure that your belongings stay dry while traveling. Handles on all four sides of the backpack make it easy to carry and lift into an overhead bin from any angle. The only downside to the bag is that it doesn't have a water bottle holder on the sides, so you'll have to carry one or try to fit it in the top pocket in the front.

We think this durable Cotopaxi bag will remain in excellent condition no matter how many times it hits the road, as it was not damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed it onto the ground. The rubber texture also seemed easy to clean and resistant to liquid spills. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found that it's the perfect size for long weekend trips and helps keep all of our items organized and easy to access. Both stylish and functional, this backpack can even be made one-of-a-kind by choosing the surprise colors option when purchased through Cotopaxi’s website.

The Details: 35 liters | 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.8 pounds | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, nylon | Padded laptop sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Away the outdoor convertible backpack 45l.

• Design 4.5 /5

We love how comfortable it is on your shoulders and back thanks to the soft materials and cushioned shoulder straps.

At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.

You'll be surprised by just how spacious this backpack is. The main compartment opens up like a clam shell for easy access to items that allowed us to fit an entire four-day packing list with ease — plus a few extra items. There are multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets in this backpack that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter backpack can grow heavy when completely filled, the padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods of time. Plus, the convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you do grow fatigued.

This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times. There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag's fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.

The Details: 45 liters | 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

It’s spacious and comes with three packing cubes to stay organized while traveling. 

After six months of use, the bag is scuffed up with noticeable scratches.

Perfect for travelers on a budget, the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack impressed us with its packing features and comfortable fit. We thought the bag provided excellent organization thanks to the interior and exterior compression that provided extra room for packing. The backpack comes with three different packing cubes in small, medium, and large. We also like that this backpack includes both a suitcase strap and a handle to hold it horizontally. The backpack itself also features straps inside and a laptop sleeve to easily hold down items and pack electronics.

The design didn’t blow us away like those from some of the more costly brands, but it does have a laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder. We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle. However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage. We think this budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack. 

The Details: 40 liters | 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | 2.7 pounds | Polyester | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Traditional

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Thanks to its clamshell design, it’s like a suitcase without wheels.

Some of the straps weren’t intuitive to use.

The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack is ideal for travelers who like the structure and sleek, minimalist style of a traditional suitcase but want the portability of a backpack. We love that this bag opens like a suitcase, making it easy to access everything inside. There was plenty of space leftover after packing the backpack, and the classic clamshell opening allowed for easy access to items in the compression-strapped main compartment and the zippered pockets on the inside of the front flap. All of the interior and exterior pockets, including the water bottle holder and padded laptop sleeve, are useful for traveling. You can convert the backpack to wear as a duffel bag or a briefcase, and it has a rear strap to place on a rolling suitcase if desired. The straps were easy to adjust, and it felt like the weight was nicely distributed thanks to the structured style of the backpack. There was a small scuff on the bag after we tossed it on the floor during our durability tests, but the contents of the backpack remained unharmed. When flying with the bag during our six-month testing period, we found that it easily fits in airplane overhead bins and under the seat. Overall, it’s a backpack with the features of a well-compartmentalized suitcase and much more.

The Details: 13 x 20.5 x 10.5 inches | 3.31 pounds | Polyester, recyclex | Padded laptop pocket | Convertible straps

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can access the main compartment on the bag from four different exterior zippers.

This is one of the most expensive backpack on our list.

This 45-liter backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its expansive design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Placing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was efficient and simple thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps to hold everything down securely. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag . It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod. 

Peak Design didn’t let any space go to waste on its backpack, so even the hip belt has a small pocket on it for storage and can be packed away when you’re not looking for extra support. It’s also easy to adjust all of the straps to prevent weight imbalances and pinching. Made of weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the bag held up perfectly after we tossed it on the ground, showing no signs of scuffs or damage — exactly what you want in a durable backpack . Although the price of this bag is steep, it comes with plenty of helpful features for travelers, and the stellar performance leads us to believe that it would last a long time. 

  The Details: 45 liters | 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | 4.8 pounds | Nylon, polyester | Laptop sleeve | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

• Comfort 4 /5

It can be converted from 40 liters for traveling to 22 liters to use as a daypack. 

The handle on the top of the bag wasn’t as comfortable to hold onto as we hoped. 

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use. After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long. We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting. 

The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpack, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. 

The Details: 20-42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

Topo Designs

• Capacity 4 /5

There are tons of pockets and a laptop compartment to help you organize your belongings.

After six months of use, we noticed the bag can feel quite heavy if packed full.

Packing for a trip can often feel tedious, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L helps make it easy and efficient. We loved how convenient it is to store a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment in the back of the bag, and there are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger. There are a ton of compartments and pockets that offer plenty of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes, with places to stash cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and more.

The adjustable shoulder straps and straps that go across the chest and waist help evenly distribute the backpack's weight, making it more comfortable to carry around, although we noticed during our long-term testing that the bag can still feel heavy if you pack it completely full. The 100 percent recycled nylon material felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time. 

The Details: 30 liters | 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches

Best Customizable

Roam the continental.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4.8 /5

You can choose from four colors to customize the shade of the front, back, sides, and straps of the backpack. 

The laptop sleeve isn’t padded.

Customized luggage can be hard to come by, but Roam’s The Continental backpack makes it easier than ever to build the carry-on backpack of your dreams. The front, back, sides, and straps of the bag can be red, green, black, or blue, or you can keep the backpack all one color for a monochromatic look. We were a bit worried about the light colors when we first got our hands on this bag, but after four months of traveling, is has no signs of wear and tear, there are no stains or loose threads, and everything is still in good shape. We were also impressed by the exterior pockets to stash headphones, snacks, chargers, water bottles, or anything else you could need whether lounging in the airport or mid-flight. The bag is made with a lightweight, water-repellent fabric and YKK zippers so it easily handles temperamental weather while traveling. Spacious and easy to access, the front flap opens wide so packing the bag with clothes and shoes was a breeze, too. The laptop pocket in the back could easily fit a 17-inch device, but it isn’t padded, so you may want to store your computer in a case to be on the safe side. 

The Details: 26 liters | 17.75 x 14 x 8 inches | 2.4 pounds | Water-repellent fabric | Laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

The expandable zippers add an extra 3.5 inches of space which increases the capacity to 30 liters.

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, the bag has a variety of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the number of pockets on the interior was a bit overwhelming at first, travelers who like to be extra organized will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and plethora of slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment. The handles and padded shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying the bag, and the small-to-medium size of the backpack makes it super comfortable to carry since it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.

The Details: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters) | 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches | 4.16 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket

• Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

• Durability 4.3 /5

It has several compartments for keeping clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories organized.

The materials feel a little lower in quality than other backpacks we tried.

If you’re not ready to invest in a pricier carry-on backpack, you can always dip your toes with this functional and spacious one for under $60. This 40-liter backpack has one large main compartment that can fit several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case without any issues. We particularly love the separate footwear compartment to prevent the bottom of your shoes from coming into contact with clean clothes and that storage can even fit pairs up to size 12. In addition, there is a laptop pocket and a large front pocket with spots to put items like phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories that could get lost easily. Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it. 

The Details: 40 liters | 20 x 13 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Water-repellent nylon

Best for Hiking

Kühl eskape 25.

The 25-liter capacity makes this backpack versatile for an airplane or the great outdoors.

It takes some adjustments to get it to fit comfortably on the back.

This rugged carry-on backpack from Kühl is the perfect option for travelers embarking on an outdoor adventure. The smaller size of this bag is its greatest strength since it can easily fit enough clothes for a weekend trip, or you can use it as an adventure pack for day hikes or camping trips. There are a variety of thoughtful features for hikers including a stowaway hip belt for extra support while trekking, load-lifting shoulder straps, and the bag is made with durable TPU-laminated nylon. Plus, the chest strap slides up and down the shoulder straps so travelers can get the most comfortable fit for their upper body. We found that it takes some extra effort to adjust all of the straps for the right fit, but once you do, the bag is comfortable to carry for long periods of time. For even more versatility, the bag has a padded laptop pocket and a variety of other small and large zippered pockets to stay organized if you’re commuting or traveling for work. 

The Details: 25 liters | 20.5 x 9.5 x 12.5 inches | Waterproof nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is basically a suitcase without wheels thanks to its large capacity and clamshell-style opening.

The bag can feel a bit heavy to carry when it’s fully packed.

If you’re traveling somewhere with a rainy climate, you’ll want a carry-on backpack like this one from Tortuga that can ward off the elements. It’s made with the brand’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 or “sailcloth” material to protect your belongings and prevent bad weather from putting a serious damper on your trip. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack essentially sat in a puddle for hours, yet none of our gear or clothing inside got wet at all, and the bag was easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

This is a seriously spacious bag at 40 liters, so we found that you can seamlessly fit a week’s worth of clothing (or more) between the two clamshell compartments. Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side. And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.

The Details: 40 liters | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Waterproof sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

This lightweight backpack has a sleek and contemporary design that comes in several earthy colors.  

It has a smaller capacity than many backpacks and can only fit a day or two of clothes.

If you’re looking to travel in style, Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to be best suited for weekend trips because of its smaller capacity. The bag fit all of the packing items during testing, but it would be difficult to fit much more in the main compartment. The ReNew Transit was comfortable to wear thanks to its lightweight polyester material and compact build. The front flap of the backpack has an external pocket for smaller items, and it folds over to attach magnetically to the front of the backpack. During our durability tests, the front magnets stayed securely together, and the body of the backpack didn’t get crushed or damaged. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack for traveling with or without other pieces of luggage. There is a laptop sleeve in the back of the bag as well as a water bottle holder on the side and a front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With four earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences. 

The Details: 27 liters | 12 x 17.5 x 7.25 inches

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

The compartments and various straps made packing effortless. 

It’s a large bag, but it wasn’t so heavy that it was uncomfortable to wear.

For travelers journeying on foot, the Osprey Fairview wowed us with its spacious interior and comfortable fit. The straps for walking longer distances are really the best part — making your bag feel like you're carrying less since the weight is so well distributed. The bags have the same storage capacity and general style, but Osprey’s women’s backpacks are designed to fit a smaller torso with waist and chest harnesses that sit upward and outward for a more comfortable carry. In testing, the main compartment and mesh zippered pouch on the front flap proved to be spacious. There are two internal compression straps and one external strap that kept belongings secure through our rough handling, so we think the bag would provide sufficient protection if you do need to check it in for a flight. 

We appreciated the padded shoulder straps and back that made wearing the backpack comfortable, despite the weight of its contents. The Osprey Fairview bags have an internal suspension the brand calls “LightWire” that distributes the weight from the harness to the hip belt, and our shoulders didn’t hurt after carrying the backpack since most of the weight shifted to the lower body.

The Details: 40 liters | 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on backpacks, there were some that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses revealed during testing. 

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus : We loved the adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the bag when not in use, but we think there are better bags out there for a fraction of the price. 

AmazonBasics Carry-on Travel Backpack : It had plenty of compartments for staying organized and the material felt durable, but there weren’t any standout features that made it a must-have backpack. 

Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L : This backpack fits all of the packing items, and it even fits under an airplane seat, but our budget pick performed slightly better and it costs less. 

On two separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 34 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight on how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

To test for capacity, we began by packing the bags with three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. We noted if any space was leftover as well as how functional the compartments were for organizing the contents packed. We evaluated the overall design of the bags by paying attention to how they fold out, how well the zippers and buckles work, and the functionality of each pocket or compartment. 

Next, we put on the backpacks and walked around for 10 minutes to rate comfortability. The highest scoring backpacks were exceptionally enjoyable to wear with the weight evenly distributed on the shoulders or hips.

Then, we threw the backpacks a few feet or off a countertop to test for durability. The highest-rated bags had no scuffs or tears after rough handling, and the packed items inside remained unharmed as well. 

Our testers had no previous knowledge of the cost of each backpack until after testing was completed. This allowed us to give an unbiased rating of overall values, where the top bags were determined to be fairly priced based on a high-quality performance, especially for the pricier bags. After our lab tests, the backpacks were sent out for real-world testing for up to six months.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags.

Not all carry-on backpacks will fit under the seat of an airplane, but if that’s your intended use, we recommend checking an airline’s underseat dimensions before heading to the airport. Similarly, with a carry-on backpack for the overhead bin, you’ll want to double-check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid paying unwanted fees if the bag is stuffed full of clothes. 

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space. When traveling by air, you might also want to consider an option with wheels for added convenience, like a rolling backpack, weekender, or duffel bag .

Frequently Asked Questions

During our test, we packed three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag into each bag and often had extra space for more clothes. Many backpacks come with a laptop compartment , but you’ll want to make sure that feature is included before purchasing yours.

Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to not fit within some limits. Most bags will have a product details section highlighting the dimensions of the backpack. If you’re looking to fit the bag solely under the seat , you should check to make sure the bag fits the dimensions while it’s packed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L, where she reviews travel products and writes the majority of the team's "Travel + Leisure Trusted" articles. Anna owns several carry-on backpacks, including the top pick from Cotopaxi, so she combined knowledge of traveling with just a backpack and the thorough lab testing and real-world insights to put together this list of the best carry-on backpacks.

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Related Articles

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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Best travel backpack 2023: travel hands-free with these top picks

The best travel backpacks for everything from weekends away and business trips to backpacking and hiking

The best travel backpacks cover everything, from weekends away and business trips to backpacking and hiking. While wheeled luggage may be all the rage, it’s not for everyone. If you want to slip through airports quickly and stay hands-free, you’re better off with one of the best travel backpacks.

Combining the lay-flat opening clamshell design of a suitcase yet retaining a soft design and shoulder straps, the travel backpack is a relatively new innovation that’s now finding its niche and setting itself apart from the everyday best backpacks .

Whether you’re after something for the weekend, a business trip or a yomp across the moors, we’ve got the best travel backpack for your style, needs and budget.

Best travel backpacks ranking 2023

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

Expandable and versatile carry-on backpack with a magnetic appeal

+ Shoulder straps stow

+ Expands by 6L

+ Comfortable

- Lacks compression straps

- Hip belt is optional 

Although it’s designed as the ultimate carry-on for three days, the Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L’s comfy shoulder straps can be stowed under magnetic flaps if you need to check it in. There’s also a luggage pass-through for roller bag carry underneath. This smart and efficiently designed backpack’s magnetic appeal stretches to some stash pockets that can take water bottles, but when empty sit flush against the side of the backpack. A third unusual feature sees it expand from 27L to 33L, though a final unique flourish – the ability to both attach compression straps to the outside and then stow them in a magnetic-closing pouch – seems over-engineered.

It’s a shame that there are no compression straps inside the main compartment for clothing, though that area has plenty of zipped pockets for bits ‘n’ pieces. In here is also a secured and padded pouch for a maximum 16-inch laptop, as well as a tablet. Looking great, comfortable to wear and with some sought-after features, the Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L is an excellent example of a professional-looking travel backpack. It’s available in black, sage green and midnight blue.

+ Can easily be checked in

+ Extremely comfortable

+ Has a rain cover

- Check-in cover is a squeeze

- Very outdoorsy design

There’s no sadder sight than a backpacker hefting 80L around the world. Cue the Eagle Creek Tour Travel Pack 55L+, the perfect sized backpack for efficient and fun long-term travel – as well as for serious hiking – whose ultra-comfy straps can all be zipped-up safely for when it’s time to take to the skies. That’s thanks to a zip-around cover that completely envelopes its comfortable shoulder straps, sturdy hip-belt and adjustable back support system (though it is a bit of a squeeze). Rather cleverly that cover is reversible and elasticated, also acting as a rain cover for the backpack for downpours.

The Eagle Creek Tour Travel Pack 55L+’s clamshell opening main compartment – which can also be accessed from the top – houses a padded sleeve for a maximum 15-inch laptop. It also contains compression straps for clothes and a large mesh pocket for sundries. Add grab handles top and sides, a zip to expand the entire bag to 62L litres and a stretch water bottle pouch (not to mention that it’s made from recycled materials) and the Eagle Creek Tour Travel Pack 55L+ surely sets the benchmark for how all backpackers should travel. 

The perfect travel backpack for frequent flyers, remote work escapes and weekends away

+ Fits two (or three) laptops 

+ No loose straps or buckles

+ Streamlined look

- Not for hiking or backpacking

- Expensive

Have laptop(s) will travel? If the clamshell design is a common theme in travel backpacks, so is a laptop sleeve, but two laptop sleeves? That’s much rarer, and we found that the Air Travel Backpack can actually take three laptops. If that’s overkill there’s little else to complain about on this travel backpack that’s carefully designed to suit the needs of those who spend a lot of time in airports, airline cabins and on urban journeys.

With a flash of either crimson, blue, black or chocolate full-grain leather on its grab handle and across the front, the Air Travel Backpack is about as big a carry-on as can be and carefully separates clothes (which get compression straps) from tech gear. That latter mobile office section opens clamshell-style, too, making it easy to access laptops in its two padded sleeves during work meetings without going anywhere near your dirty shirts. However, what we love most about the Air Travel Backpack is its streamlined look; there’s no trace of loose straps or buckles and the stretch pocket for a water bottle is invisible unless you use it. Not only could you walk off a plane straight into a business meeting with the super-smart Air Travel Backpack, but you could also live out of it for several days. 

Check out our review of the WaterField Air Travel Backpack for more information!

Easy access carry-on backpack that doubles as mobile office

+ Excellent build quality

+ Lay-flat laptop for airport security

+ Variety of sections

- Very expensive

- Not much room for clothes

What makes a bag a ‘travel backpack’ is debatable, but arguably it’s a clamshell opening that mimics a suitcase. However, what that’s used for can differ. Take Tumi’s Brief Pack, which unlike others here is not only aimed at business travellers, but very specifically at those that frequently take a laptop through airport security.

A tough work bag that easily stands-up on its own on a scanner belt or in a tray, the Brief Pack has a section that zippers around three sides that flops a maximum 15-inch laptop down ready for inspection. No more putting a laptop into a separate tray. It’s got plenty more going for it as a carry-on, too, with a roomy section for accessories and perhaps a change of clothes, a water bottle pocket and plenty of small pockets on the front for carry-on essentials. Like many of the bags here it’s also got a pass-through strap on the rear that can be slipped over the telescopic handle of upright rolling luggage. 

Tough all-purpose travel pack for staying organised when travelling 

+ Simple clamshell design

+ Easy to extract a laptop

+ Good build quality 

- Exterior compression straps are fiddly

- No water bottle holder

While some travel backpacks go straight for the business traveller and others aim for backpackers, the Incase EO Travel Backpack aims for the rest of us. A simple, fairly boxy design available in black, grey or navy, this 24L bag can be expanded to 33L using a wraparound zipper, though doing so does make this bag slightly too deep. Cue some droop, which is not helped by its soft design or its exterior compression straps, which prove slightly annoying to use. However, core features impress if you travel light.

The headliner is surely its clamshell-opening main compartment, which features two sides for storing clothes, each secured not using compression straps, but with zipped webbing closures. There’s another soft compartment behind it for a maximum 16-inch laptop and a large tablet, an organiser pocket across the front that can take a pair of shoes, and a soft pocket for keys, a phone or sunglasses. Build quality is good, though since its shoulder straps are fairly basic and that expansion option brings a saggy look it’s best not to overstuff the Incase EO Travel Backpack. 

How to choose the best travel backpack for you

The most important thing to consider is what you’ll use it for. Some travel backpacks are designed for city breaks, short flights and weekends away while others zero in on being professional-looking travel backpacks designed for business trips, and often building-in laptop sleeves. 

Then there are outdoor-specific travel backpacks aimed at backpackers and backcountry hikers who simply want easier access to their stuff than a traditional rucksack offers. 

In our search for the next travel backpack, we’ve reviewed and compared backpacks from trusted brands like Tumi, Peak Design, Eagle Creek, Incase and Waterfield Designs.

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Jamie is a freelance journalist, copywriter and author with 20 years' experience. He's written journalism for over 50 publications and websites and, when he's not writing, spending most of his time travelling – putting the latest travel tech through its paces.

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The 13 best carry-on backpacks of 2024, tested & reviewed.

Enjoy hands-free travel with a versatile carry-on backpack.

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Not sure whether to take a rolling suitcase or a travel backpack on the plane? Both types of carry-on luggage certainly have their merits, but if you like keeping your arms and hands free when traveling, a backpack is the right choice for you. Furthermore, compared to a hard-sided suitcase , it's easier to squeeze a malleable backpack into an overhead bin or under the seat. And if your vacation is focused on adventure travel, you might value a durable pack on your back over wheels on the ground.

U.S. News compiled this list from extensive research and testing along with consumer reviews. Whatever your reason for choosing a backpack, there are plenty on the market to satisfy your needs. Read on for the best carry-on travel backpacks.

Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Budget: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

Best lightweight: mz wallace metro utility backpack.

• Best for Business Travel (tie): Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack – Large
• Best for Business Travel (tie): Aer Travel Pack 3

Best for International Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Best for weekend getaways: solo grand travel tsa backpack, best for women: tumi voyageur celina backpack, best for men: peak design travel backpack 45l, best for adventure travel: kelty redwing 36, best with wheels: samsonite tectonic nutech wheeled backpack, best organization: augustnoa classic noa, best leather: monos metro backpack in vegan leather.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of backpacks are height by width by depth.)

Price: $200 or less

When it comes to bag travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs a serious punch. The carry-on backpack is available in three sizes – 42L, 35L and 28L – and a variety of colors, including the vibrant multicolor Del Día style. The 35L size not only fits everything you need for your next getaway, but it's also TSA-compliant as a carry-on item . On the outside, the Allpa features a removable waist belt, a padded laptop sleeve on the side, anti-theft zippers, carabiner lash loops for extra gear, a sternum strap and a front zippered pocket. The backpack straps can be tucked away if you're looking to save more room in the overhead bin or you want to carry the bag via its grab handles.

The bag opens suitcase-style; inside, you'll find one large zippered mesh compartment on the right and a subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left, providing ample space for all your clothes, shoes and accessories. What's more, the bag comes with a rain cover (though it's already water-resistant).

What our editors say:

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures, from a road trip around Iceland to camping all over Colorado. It fits more than expected, is comfortable to wear (especially if using the waist belt) and is extremely durable. I just wish the 35L had an exterior water bottle pocket like the 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $15.99 or less

This backpack has three excellent things going for it: It's affordable, lightweight and durable. It's a great option for a weekend getaway bag and is an excellent little backpack to have on hand for tours and day trips once you make it to your destination. If you're planning to hike or kayak on your next getaway, you'll definitely want to have the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Backpack in your back pocket – literally. It can be folded into a compact pouch and tucked away in a larger carry-on bag if you're planning to only use it as a daypack.

The lightweight travel bag is both tear- and water-resistant. With all of its pockets – including one on each side for water bottles or umbrellas – you'll be able to fit everything you need for an adventure-filled trip.

It can fit enough for a weekend trip, plus it's super useful for hiking, boat excursions and more once you're in your destination because it's so light and water-resistant. I've used it for years and it has held up incredibly well; it comes in so many fun colors, too. I love it so much, I bought two so my husband has one he can use as well. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $345 or less

Constructed with recycled bluesign-approved quilted nylon, this chic bag is packed with pockets and organizational details. The interior has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, a large zip pocket with two slip pockets, two water bottle pockets and two removable pouches. On the front of the bag there's a deep phone pocket and multiple zippered pockets of various sizes, including a small one that's ideal for a boarding pass, earbuds or wipes.

A water bottle pocket sits on each side of the bag, and the back of the bag has a luggage trolley sleeve that can be zipped shut on the bottom to be a pocket when not attached to your suitcase. This backpack has a top-zip design, and can be carried by the two top handles or the adjustable padded backpack straps.

This bag has completely changed my mind about backpacks. It's extremely spacious and works so well for my laptop, change of clothes, toiletry bag and other carry-on essentials. I love all of the pockets and that I can carry this like a north-south tote in addition to using the trolley sleeve or backpack straps. But what truly sets this apart is the beautiful fabrication that is so soft and the luxurious Italian leather details. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best for Business Travel: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack and Aer Travel Pack 3 (tie)

Dagne dover dakota neoprene backpack – large.

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $215 or less

This sleek, professional backpack by Dagne Dover is perfect for professional and casual settings alike, with a vast array of organizational features and a 20-liter capacity for the large size. On the outside, you'll find a zippered padded pocket for up to 16-inch laptops and a slip pocket for your phone, while an interior sleeve can fit a tablet or a second laptop, allowing you to travel with multiple devices. The inside of the bag has two mesh slip pockets and a zip-top pouch attached with a leash, as well as three zippered pockets in the front panel.

To help you stay even more organized, the exterior also features a zippered front pocket with pen loops and a key clip; two zippered side pockets; two slip side pockets; and straps to secure a small bottle. The water-resistant bag comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a luggage sleeve and a separate shoe bag.

I adore bringing this bag to work and using it as a personal item on flights. I don't think I've ever used a backpack with better organization than this one – there's a dedicated place for every little thing, from keys to pens to my devices. I also love that the neoprene material is extremely lightweight and water-resistant. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Aer Travel Pack 3

Price: $249 or less

With a pocket for everything, the clamshell-style Aer Travel Pack 3 keeps you organized to the max on business trips. Keep your laptop (up to 16 inches) safe in the padded, zippered laptop sleeve, and stow your passport in the quick-access side pocket. The front compartment features several sizes of pockets perfect for chargers, notepads, pens and more. Along with the lay-flat main compartment for clothes, there's also an interior pocket for small accessories as well as a hidden luggage tracker pocket.

Designed for one-bag travel, the durable Aer Travel Pack 3 also features a water-resistant nylon exterior along with load lifters for a more comfortable fit. You can purchase a hip belt separately.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has one of the sleekest designs when it comes to carry-on backpacks. I also appreciate all the pockets: The sizable laptop pocket is perfect for someone like me who uses a huge laptop; the eight pockets in just the front compartment are so handy for everything you could need while traveling; and the bag even comes with a zippered water bottle pocket on the side. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $185 or less

The Osprey Farpoint is truly an all-in-one travel pack that combines quality with minimal weight. The clamshell-style carry-on bag features a substantial main compartment across from a large mesh pocket. There's an easy-to-access zippered laptop sleeve on the side for devices up to 16 inches.

For extra support and comfort, the backpack includes a sternum strap, back panel, harness and hip belt; the latter three can be zipped up for fully streamlined travel, and compression straps help slim the bag down even more. The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most domestic carry-on size requirements and is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack , which can be brought onto the plane as a personal item.

This is one of my favorite backpacks. I love how the back can be zipped up so the bag more resembles a duffel; this makes it easy to stow away without having to deal with a lot of straps. Additionally, the interior compression straps can really help cinch down belongings, especially if you're using packing cubes . – Leilani Osmundson

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Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $117.99 or less

Perfect for weekend getaways , the Solo Grand TSA Travel Backpack opens like a regular suitcase. In the main compartment, you can secure several outfits with compression straps and store accessories and toiletries in two zippered mesh pockets. In the back, a padded compartment protects laptops up to 17.3 inches in size, and on the front there are a variety of pockets – even pockets within pockets – for your phone and other essentials. This backpack is also equipped with two side mesh pockets, a trolley sleeve, and side and top carry handles.

This backpack is flawless. It's big without the bulk and has plenty of pockets, which not only makes it ideal for weekend getaways but also prevents me from having to awkwardly rummage through my bag when I need something on the plane. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $475 or less

This backpack blends function and fashion with a compact design. On the front of the bag are two zip compartments and a U-zip pocket with a card slot, a slip pocket and a pen holder. The interior of the bag is divided into two separate compartments: one zippered section with a padded laptop compartment (holds up to a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook), and another large compartment with a zippered pocket and two slip pockets (ideal for glasses or charging cords).

There is also a zippered compartment on each side of the bag, one of which has a water-resistant lining for a water bottle. On the back of the bag you'll find a hidden phone compartment and a trolley sleeve to attach to a roller bag.

This style oozes sophistication, especially the black with the gold hardware. From its sleek material to its many pockets and details, this backpack looks and feels like a chic handbag that can go from the office to a beach resort with ease. I especially like that there are two places you can access the front compartment of the bag, and I like that the laptop section is separate from the rest of the backpack so it's easier to take out my computer and go through airport security (which makes me less likely to drop something from inside my bag). – Rachael Hood

Price: $299.95 or less

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a solid, rugged choice that will last. The nylon canvas shell of the backpack is weatherproof and water-resistant, with a waterproof bottom liner as well. You can unzip the back panel to access the main packing compartment, which is also accessible via zippers along each side of the bag and can be divided in two by a mesh sleeve. To keep you organized, this backpack has quick-access pockets for small items like passports and glasses, plus expandable side pockets for water bottles, tripods or umbrellas.

The bag meets carry-on size requirements but can expand by 1.5 inches if you need the extra room; the shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away if you plan to check it instead. If you prefer a smaller bag, the Peak Design Travel Backpack also comes in a 30-liter size .

If you only want to bring one bag on a short trip, you can't go wrong with this backpack. It's sturdy, reliable and able to fit a ton while still being carry-on-sized. It served me well on a recent trip to New Zealand, and I'd definitely recommend it for travelers who like hands-free luggage. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $134.95 or less

If you'll be adventuring in the great outdoors for your next trip, consider purchasing the Kelty Redwing 36 backpack. You'll find two exterior water bottle pockets as well as a hydration-friendly inner pocket (for storing a water bladder). Tool loops can hold hiking poles, fishing poles, ice axes or other adventure gear. Organization is made easy with plenty of zippered pockets, including one on each side of the bag, a large one on the front and one on top that's perfect for storing travel documents such as a passport. Plus, a ventilated back panel helps keep you cool when you're hurrying through airports or hiking up a mountain.

If you need a bigger backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical is a great checked bag option and has many of the same features as the Redwing 36 along with more straps and pockets.

The Kelty Redwing 36 can be cinched down quite a bit for truly streamlined travel and to better meet carry-on size guidelines. However, I'll caution that the waist belt is difficult to remove. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $159.99 or less

If you want the flexibility to either carry or wheel your luggage, a wheeled backpack style may work best for you. The Samsonite Tectonic NuTech Wheeled Backpack transforms from a rolling bag into a backpack by just tucking in the handle, pulling out the stowed straps and using the wheel cover. The durable polyester material is water-repellent and has red accents.

There are three sections to this bag: a main compartment with space to pack for a weekend trip, a dedicated sleeve for both a laptop up to 15.6 inches and a tablet up to 11 inches, and a front pocket equipped with various organizational features. There are various small pockets, pen sleeves, card slots and a key leash within. You can tuck a water bottle and umbrella into the exterior pockets on either side of the bag. Just keep in mind that this bag may slightly exceed carry-on size restrictions on some airlines with stricter rules.

I expected a wheeled backpack to be uncomfortable to carry, but this convertible bag has proved surprisingly convenient. I like having both the rolling and hands-free options for different circumstances, and it has ample packing space. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $148 or less

This sustainable water-resistant backpack is constructed with 100% recycled materials and has 10 pockets to organize everything. The spacious interior compartment has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve with a strap to secure it in place, as well as an interior mesh pocket for small items or charging cords and a removable shoe bag.

On the exterior, the front pocket has a built-in mesh organizer for pens, and there are mesh water bottle holders on each side of the backpack. The back of the bag has two adjustable padded straps, each with a built-in zippered compartment ideal for keys, ID or tickets. A hidden zip pocket makes for a secure space for a wallet or passport, and the trolley sleeve provides added versatility.

This backpack is great for travel or everyday use. I especially appreciate the comfortable backpack straps with the small zip pockets. They are easy to reach and perfect for small items like lip gloss, cash or a transit card. Durably constructed, the water-resistant exterior performs well in any weather, and I love that there's a padded space for both my laptop and iPad. – Rachael Hood

Price: $230 or less

For an upscale backpack that can be dressed up or down, this Monos style is an ideal choice. Constructed with sustainable vegan leather (there's also a nylon version with vegan leather accents), this structured style is both water- and scratch-resistant. The 15-inch laptop sleeve is separate from the main packing compartment so you can access your device easily. The brand's QuickSnap Modular Kit System means you'll have a detachable Metro Kit for small items that attaches magnetically to the front of the bag; this kit is interchangeable between Metro bags and can be swapped out for a different kit or removed entirely, depending on your needs.

The backpack's main compartment is designed for maximum functionality with a felt-lined document sleeve, a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets, and a waterproof zippered privacy compartment for a rain jacket or gym clothes. On the back, you can make use of a hidden slip pocket for your phone, a trolley sleeve and adjustable padded straps. There's also two top carry handles if you'd prefer to carry this backpack like a tote.

I really like the elevated styling and durability of this vegan leather bag. But what sets it apart is the separate laptop compartment (I don't like to have to open my entire bag to get out my laptop while on the go), and the modular Metro Kit system that can be removed when it's not needed. It's full of value-added design elements, and the material looks classic and appropriate with any attire. – Rachael Hood

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on its size, a backpack is considered a carry-on item. To be able to put it in the overhead bin, you generally don't want it to exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but that sizing varies by airline, and since backpacks are soft-sided, the dimensions can be somewhat malleable. If it fits under the seat in front of you on the plane ( check your airline's specific size requirements ), it is typically considered a personal item. If the backpack can fit under the seat, then you can often bring it in addition to a larger carry-on bag (based on your airline ticket type and inclusions).

For a backpack to be a carry-on for most domestic airlines, it should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (or should be able to be squished to approximately those dimensions). To be considered a personal item, it must fit under the seat in front of you. Underseat size and space varies by airline and airplane type, so it's best to check with your airline's size restrictions.

How We Tested

From the comfort of the straps to the capacity of each bag, our team tested more than 20 carry-on backpacks from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the durability and details that make a difference. After taking these backpacks on a variety of adventures, we've selected these carry-on backpacks as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Rolling Duffel Bags
• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Fanny Packs
• The Best Travel Insurance

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Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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The Best Backpacks for One-Bag Travel

Updated on September 2018

Travel varies for all of us. Some of us dart back and forth across the globe in short bursts for business. Others seek out adventure and travel far and wide for months or even years on end. Some of us do a little of both. But when churning over the best one-bag travel backpack to be your companion, five key considerations always spring up.

The lighter a bag is, the less strain there is on your body. You won’t tire as quickly, you’ll be inclined to explore further, and you’ll enjoy the general traveling experience more. Not to mention shedding carry weight helps you avoid overweight baggage fees.

Something to bear in mind though is that lightweight materials can also be expensive, so you may have to pay more for a bag that cuts weight but stills offers reliable durability. While finding a lightweight bag will help you reduce carry weight, it’s also good practice to try and pack less if you can . Every little helps!

The more comfortable your bag is, the happier you’ll be. Traveling is tiring enough without adding an uncomfortable bag to the mix. However, the level of comfort you need will depend on your intended travel. If you’ll be on the go for a long time, have a lot to carry, or will be doing outdoor-type trips, a comfortable backpack with good suspension is important.

Try to look for a bag with a hip belt, great harness and load stabilizing  shoulder straps to help with the load and transfer carry weight to your hips. Lighter loads and shorter travel distances however allow for more carry flexibility, and if you need to you can compromise on comfort a bit for other features that are more useful to your needs. It’s always good to try before you buy, so if possible go into a local store and try on different bags to see which ones feel right for you.

Packability and access

This is how easy you can get stuff in and take stuff out. You want to be able to access specific items without having to unpack a lot of your gear in the process. And it’s nice to be able to pack your gear into your pack quickly and smoothly when preparing to skip to new locales.

So consider how the bag opens (for example is it a top-loader, clamshell-style, etc.) and whether it’s right for you. Does it offer easy-access pockets for frequently used items? Do you require a lot of organization? Perhaps you need to keep business and personal items separate? Do you need compression options? These are all useful questions to consider when deciding whether a travel bag is suitable for your requirements.

Travel can be demanding. Your bag may encounter rough terrain or wet weather, but there’s also the strain of being wedged into tight spaces such as overhead luggage bins, or having to endure unforgiving baggage carousels. Plus general wear and tear. The more durable a bag is, the more punishment it will be able to withstand.

However, greater durability can sometimes come at the cost of greater weight, so you’ll need to decide whether durability or weight is a priority. Your travel activities will also dictate the level of durability you need, for instance short business travel trips (where your bag is unlikely to encounter a lot of demanding environments) versus multi-week outdoor adventures.

Versatility

As with all of the considerations above, the degree of versatility you require in your carry will depend on its intended use. You may want to mix outdoor and urban travel, in which case your bag will need to be able to handle diverse environments. Perhaps you want the flexibility to carry a variety of loads, so a bag with expandability features could be a good fit. Organization and aesthetics are also important here. For example you may want a business bag that looks the part, keeps your work and personal items separate, and can be carried in a variety of ways for easy movement outside of work settings.

Now that you’ve got some key considerations in mind, here are a few of our top picks to suit a wide range of one-bag travel needs.

Osprey Porter 46  ($130)

Affordable and accessible

Osprey’s Porter 46 is suitable for carry-on use, and good value for money. At 2 lbs. 6.45 oz. (1.09 kg), it won’t weigh you down and swallows gear like a champ. A good mix of pockets keep items organized, including a padded laptop pocket. Its stowable backpack straps and hip belt help clean up the exterior if you want to carry it by the side handle or need to check it in for any reason. The StraightJacket compression with foam sidewalls is handy for cinching down the load and protecting your gear, and the main compartment’s panel zip access provides convenient packing and access. And this is Osprey, so you know the harness is super awesome.

Dimensions: 58cm (L) x 40cm (W) x 31cm (D)

The North Face Overhaul 40  ($159)

Great all-rounder

The versatile North Face Overhaul 40 can handle both outdoor day trips and urban environments. Coming in at 3 lbs. 3 oz. (1.45 kg), it’s comfy to wear and fitted with cushy straps, a padded harness and waist belt. And if you’re inclined to compartmentalize, it offers a healthy arsenal of pockets for organization, including a lay-flat laptop compartment for smooth transitions through checkpoints. At $159, it’s a solid option.

Dimensions: 21″ x 12″ x 7″

GOBAG 2.0 ($175.98)

Compression and modularity for easier travels

The 35L GOBAG ( updated to 2.0 ) has a range of nifty features to help make traveling easier. A waterproof rolltop compression bag inside the main compartment lets you compress soft goods to maximize your packing space. Plus modular components allow you to tailor your carry to different trips, such as a removable and adaptable laptop harness that fits a range of laptop sizes. Further modular components include a wash bag that can be secured to the interior Velcro panel and removed easily at airport security, as well as a removable waist belt. A full edge zip and clamshell opening help you get to gear easily and quickly, and a waterproof document pocket keeps valuable papers safe from the elements.

Dimensions: 50 x 20 x 35cm (L, D,W)

Tortuga Setout Divide Backpack ($179)

Expandable for easy adaptability

For short trips you don’t need to carry a lot. But sometimes you need the flexibility to pack in extra, such as a souvenir from your travels or an extra layer in colder weather. Tortuga’s Setout Divide Backpack has you covered with an expandable design that increases from 26L to 34L. Compact when you don’t need the extra space. Ready to accommodate when you do. The clamshell opening and multiple pockets keep gear secure, tidy and easily accessible as required. And the lightweight, weather-resistant build won’t weigh you down at just 3.8 lbs.

Dimensions: 20″ x 13″ x 6″ (expands to 8″)

Mystery Ranch Scree  ($179)

Outdoor meets urban exploration

Weighing 3.1 lbs (1.4 kg), the nimble Scree is a solid choice if you’re after a smaller multifunctional pack that can roam the outdoors, tag along for overnight travel trips, and serve as an about-town daypack. Mystery Ranch’s innovative 3-Zip design provides great access, and the tough construction ensures it can handle whatever you throw at it. The pack accommodates a hydration bladder as well as water bottles, has crosshatched webbing on the exterior to attach small extras, and includes quick-access pockets for stashing frequently used items. An added bonus is the adjustable yoke which provides a customized fit for superior carry comfort.

Dimensions: 26″ x 14.5″ x 11″ (66cm x 37cm x 28cm)

Rocky Mountain Underground Core Pack ($179.98)

A versatile outdoor adventurer

RMU’s Core Pack is a versatile 35L backpack that lends itself to a variety of outdoor uses. The 270-degree clamshell design opens wide for easy packing and retrieval of gear, and the pack also offers quick-access storage for items such as climbing rope, avalanche safety equipment and ski goggles. Additional handy features include dual hydration ports, an inbuilt helmet holder, as well as diagonal and A-frame ski and snowboard carry options.

Dimensions: 26″ x 11.4″ x 7.9″

Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($199)

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC provides great organization and flexible carry options for trips lasting 3 to 5 days. The main compartment opens clamshell-style for convenient packing and access. There are plenty of interior and exterior pockets for keeping gear neat and tidy and accessing frequently used items easily. The bag weighs 1,655 g (3 lbs 10.4 oz) and offers three different carry options including stowable backpack straps, a shoulder strap, and carry grab handles.

Dimensions: 22.8″ x 14.5″ x 8.6″

Tortuga Setout Backpack ($199)

Handy features that work harmoniously together

Winner of our Best Carry-On Bag Award , the Tortuga Setout Backpack offers a great mix of features in a thoughtfully considered design weighing 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg). There’s plenty of usable space with easy clamshell access, as well as useful organization pockets for tech and travel essentials. The low-key aesthetics blend into a variety of environments. And the comfortable, weather-resistant and durable build will provide years of enjoyable and reliable use.

Dimensions: 22″ x 14″ x 9″

Arc’teryx Blade 28  ($199)

Short business trips

The Arc’teryx Blade 28 is a sleek choice (and Carry Award winner! ) for overnight business trips, and can be carried as a backpack or briefcase-style using the side handle. The understated aesthetics suit urban settings, and the main compartment’s clamshell opening makes packing and getting to gear straightforward. The 1.46 kg (51 oz.) pack is good for storing business and travel essentials separately, with space for a 15″ laptop, clothing and work tools. The build? World class.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($235)

EDC meets one-bag travel

The Synapse 25 is a comfortable and versatile backpack that works well as both an everyday carry pack and a carry-on backpack. The bag comes in a choice of fabric options including 400D Halcyon®/420D nylon ripstop weighing 1 lb 11 oz / 770 grams, as well as 1000D Cordura® weighing 1 lb 13 oz / 820 grams. Excellent organization means no shortage of pockets for stashing smaller items while retaining a sleek silhouette.

Dimensions: 20″ x 13.4″ x 9″ / 508 x 340 x 230 mm

Ae r Travel Pack 2  ($230)

Sleek urban style with efficient access

With its understated aesthetics and durable construction, the Aer Travel Pack 2 looks stylish for work and holiday trips alike while being tough enough to withstand the demands of life on the go. The main compartment features a handy clamshell-style opening, while dedicated storage for a 15″ laptop, a ventilated shoe compartment, and accessible pockets for smaller items help make packing and retrieving gear easier. A luggage pass-through sleeve also makes it easy to secure the pack to rolling luggage. The pack weighs 3.7 lbs and can also be cinched down with side compression straps to form a compact daypack.

Dimensions: 21.5″ (55 cm) x 13.5″ (34 cm) x 8.5″ (22 cm)

Gregory Covert Extended Mission  ($235)

Business functionality with carry flexibility

Urban-friendly aesthetics, good organization and a range of carry options make the 22L Gregory Covert Extended Mission a handy partner for overnight or two-day business trips. The bag weighs 1.2 kg and can be carried as a backpack, briefcase or shoulder bag, with multiple pockets and compartments for organizing business items and personal gear.

Dimensions: 28cm (H) x 42cm (L) x 15cm (D)

Peak Design Travel Backpack ($235)

Thoughtful features in a well-considered whole

Peak Design’s 45L Travel Backpack combines clean style, great access and useful organization. And what makes it stand out is that all its carefully considered features work harmoniously, making this pack greater than the sum of its parts. The back panel access and dual side access lets you easily pack and get to gear. And the stowable harness keeps things snag-free when you need to fit the pack in tight spaces. Plenty of pockets are on hand for organization, including storage for a 15″ laptop and a tablet. And with its compression and expansion capabilities you can easily tailor it to different trips and day use at your destination.

Osprey Farpoint 55  ($240)

Backpacking in search of adventure

The Farpoint 55 offers excellent versatility for outdoor adventures, round-the-world trips and multi-week city stays alike. The M/L size weighs in at 3 lbs. 14.4 oz. (1.77 kg), and is too large to serve as a carry-on (check out the smaller  Farpoint 40  for that). However, the stowable suspension system allows for a sleek silhouette when checking the bag in. The Farpoint 55 offers a range of handy features including a detachable 13L daypack (which could be used as carry-on) that can also be attached to the main pack’s harness for keeping valuables and frequently used items within easy reach. The daypack is great for roaming with the essentials when it’s time for sightseeing or a day hike. There’s also panel zip access to the main bag for easy packing and access throughout.

Maximum dimensions (M/L): 65cm (L) x 32cm (W) x 32cm (D)

DSPTCH Travel Pack ($240)

Sleek functionality with thoughtful organization

The DSPTCH Travel Pack offers a sleek silhouette paired with trusty durability and considered organization to make your travels as smooth as possible. The pack is made in the USA with abrasion-resistant and water-repellent 1680D Ballistic Nylon with a DWR coating. The pack provides quick-access pockets for essentials, separate storage for shoes or dirty laundry, and dedicated storage for a laptop. Additionally, the hip belt can also double as a compression strap if required. The bag weighs 4 lbs 4 oz and is backed by a lifetime guarantee for added peace of mind.

Dimensions: 20″ x 13″ x 7″

Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 PLUS  ($250)

Safety on the move for security-conscious travellers

If you’re after a host of understated security features that protect your gear on the go without drawing unnecessary attention to your bag, this pack is king. With features such as eXomesh® slashguards, an RFIDsafe™ pocket, lockable zippers, and a hook to attach the pack to a secure fixture, you can enjoy peace of mind on the move. But the pack offers a range of other handy travel features too , such as an inbuilt rain cover, space for a 15″ laptop, and a removable divider in the main compartment to separate your gear. It’s fairly lightweight too at 3 lbs. 14.8 oz. (1.8 kg).

Dimensions: 55cm (H) x 30cm (W) x 22cm (D) / 21.7″ x 11.9″ x 8.7″

Arc’teryx Khamski 38  ($259)

Versatility for snow seekers and hikers

Not what you first think of when you think ‘travel backpack’, but the Khamski works super well for adventurous  vagabonds who leg it from tarmac to mountain top. At 38L the Khamski is designed for overnight and day trips in the backcountry, with diagonal or A-frame carry for skis and vertical carry for snowboards (or anything else you can latch on). The pack weighs 1.56 kg (55 oz.), with a weather-resistant and durable construction and simple storage for mid and small-sized items. However, it lends itself to general outdoor exploration and hiking too, offering a top-loading design with a full-length side zip for convenient access to gear.

Dimensions: 8″ x 13″ x 27″

WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffel ($259)

A versatile duffel that delivers more

Duffels are generally carry workhorses that can haul a lot of gear but often lack comfort and organization. But the WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffel ticks all the boxes. The convenient clamshell access, three interior compartments, a padded 15″ laptop compartment and multiple pockets keep your gear well organized and accessible on the go. The bag weighs 3.9 lbs (1.8 kg) and can be carried as both a duffel and backpack, with a burly and weather-resistant build that embraces urban and outdoor environments alike.

Dimensions: 9″ x 14″ x 22″

Red Oxx Sky Train ($275)

Tough as an ox for demanding use

Travel can be demanding on your carry, which is why the Red Oxx Sky Train is built to take a beating. Made by hand in the USA, the bag comes with a lifetime warranty and features durable 1000D Cordura construction. The Sky Train can be carried in a variety of ways such as using the grab handles, the removable shoulder strap or the stowable backpack straps. The bag weighs 4 lbs (1.81 kg) and provides two compartments that unzip flat for easy packing.

Dimensions: 20″L x 9″W x 13″H (50.8cm L x 22.7cm W x 33cm H)

Tortuga Outbreaker 45  ($299)

A portable suitcase for round-the-world travel

While the Tortuga Outbreaker also comes in a 35L option ($224), the 45L still falls within maximum carry-on size and is a good choice for longer trips or when you need the option to carry more gear. It’s constructed with four-layer sailcloth to keep the elements at bay, and offers handy access with a clamshell-style opening for the main compartment and a lay-flat laptop compartment for getting through airport security quickly. It’s on the heavier side, coming in at 5.1 lbs (2.3 kg), but the good suspension system keeps you comfortable on the go. The shoulder straps can be moved up or down to accommodate different torso heights for a better fit, and there’s also a removable hip belt to transfer carry weight to your hips. Plus there’s no shortage of pockets for organization.

Triple Aught Design Meridian Transport Case 25L  ($300)

Tactical chic for urban missions

With its discreet aesthetics, good organization, and multiple carry options the Meridian Transport Case can adapt to changing needs and environments with ease. The bag weighs 43.20 oz. (1.23 kg) and offers a functional design with a range of compartments and pockets to keep your gear tidy and quickly accessible. In addition, the bag can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag or using the top grab handles, allowing you to alternate accordingly for shorter and longer travel distances and diverse load weights.

Dimensions: 18″ (45.72cm) W x 11″ (27.94cm) H x 6.5″ (16.51cm) D

Alchemy Equipment AEL008  ($320)

Perfect for the plane to your hotel

The AEL008 scores on both the style and performance fronts. This Carry Award winner ‘s clean silhouette looks right at home in urban settings, while the versatile and durable design can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag or duffel. The bag weighs 1.5 kg and is suitable for carry-on use, with a clamshell-style main compartment and internal compression straps. A range of pockets provide storage for your smaller items, and the laptop sleeve features a handy ejecting mechanism. This is a chic piece for transporting your gear from the airport to a hotel or resort. However, you’ll likely want to pair it with a smaller packable day bag for carrying the essentials at your destination.

Dimensions: 55cm x 35cm x 25cm

Mission Workshop Vandal  ($325)

Expandability for urban adventures

The Vandal merges sleek urban style with great expandability, allowing it to shrink or grow with changing carry needs and handle diverse loads with ease. The pack weighs 4.4 lbs. (2 kg) and can expand from 1,800 cu.in. to 4,000 cu.in. (29L to 64L). It can be used in either a rolltop or flap-down configuration and fits up to a 17 inch laptop. Further features in this pack’s favor include a lifetime warranty and weatherproof construction.

Dimensions: 15″ x 21″ x 6″

GORUCK GR2  ($395)

A bombproof build for demanding use

If durability is a key priority, the GORUCK GR2 should definitely be on your radar. This former Carry Awards’ winner is built to take a beating, the pack is constructed from 1000D Cordura and tough enough to handle demanding use on a daily basis. Suitable for carry-on use, the GR2 opens flat for easy packing and offers multiple compartments, pockets, and internal and external MOLLE for organization. Two size options are available, 34L and 40L, weighing 4.35 lbs and 4.75 lbs respectively. This is one tough bit of kit.

Dimensions 34L: 12.5″ (W) x 20.5″ (H) x 9″ (D) / 40L: 12.5″ (W) x 22″ (H) x 9″ (D)

Trakke Storr Carry-On Backpack (~$420)

Premium handcrafted quality with easy access

The Trakke Storr offers an appealing mix of handsome aesthetics, top-notch materials, excellent construction and convenient clamshell access. The pack is handmade in Scotland with premium waxed canvas and weather-resistant zippers. A dedicated exterior-access laptop compartment keeps tech at the ready, while the straps can be stowed away to reduce snagging in tight spaces. The Storr weighs in at 1.4kg, with a 30L volume that suits minimalist carry-on loads.

Dimensions: 48 x 33 x 18 cm

Tom Bihn The Hero’s Journey  ($480)

A modular multitasker

The thoughtfully designed Hero’s Journey is actually two bags in one. The main bag suits maximum carry-on size and the smaller Top Pack qualifies as a personal carry-on item. At your destination they can be zipped together to form a 55L backpack. Alternatively the Top Pack can be used as a day bag at your destination, with the remainder of your gear stored in the main pack. The Hero’s Journey includes a removable hip belt, plus a removable shoulder strap for the Top Pack (which can also be carried as a waist pack or daypack). Carry options are also available with the main pack which can be carried as a backpack, duffel or shoulder bag (a shoulder strap is not included). The main bag weighs 3 lbs. 1 oz. (1.39 kg), while the Top Pack comes in at 1 lb (445 grams). It’s also worth considering that the price tag is pretty hefty, but you get a lot of bag for your buck. Tom Bihn make carry to last.

Dimensions Main Bag: 22″ x 14″ x 9″ / 55.5cm x 35.5cm x 23cm

Dimensions Top Pack (Pocket or Daypack Mode): 14″ x 9″ x 5.5″ / 35.5cm x 23cm x 14cm

Dimensions Top Pack (Shoulder Bag Mode): 14″ x 9″ x 7.5″ / 35.5cm x 23cm x 19cm

Outlier Ultrahigh Duffelpack  ($750)

Ultralight urban luxury

If you’re keen to shed the carry weight while still maintaining some slick city style, the Ultrahigh Duffelpack is a fine choice. Constructed with Ultrahigh Dyneema Composite fabric, the bag comes with two Double Action straps and weighs a total of 1045 g with the straps (775 g without). Lightweight while still retaining strength and durability, the bag provides a versatile expandable design with a maximum 50L volume closed and 78L open. In addition to its expandability and rolltop compression, the bag can be carried as a backpack, duffel or unrolled shoulder bag (stylist mode). The wide opening also makes packing and access simple. An obvious flag, this is an expensive investment, top tier hardware and materials come at a price. 😉

Dimensions: 10″ (W) x 21″ (L) x 20″ (H)

SDR D3 Traveller Duffel  ($985)

Discreet and off the grid

Need to fly under the radar? The D3 Traveller Duffel is a discreet and ultralight bag that will help you avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself. The bag weighs 1.10 lbs. (500 g) and offers a great balance of strength, light weight and low-key design. Plus it’s easily packable for storage or carrying in another bag. The bag is constructed with two layers of weatherproof SDRT Grade Dyneema, with one of the layers suspended inside the other for support, protection, and to create a relaxed exterior even if the bag is fully packed. The downside? This is a couple of notes off a grand, so you better be sure you need this kind of delicious performance.

Dimensions: 21.5″ (L) x 10.5″ (W) x 10.5″ (H) (57cm x 27cm x 27cm)

*If you found this article valuable, you might also like:

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*Feature image via Tom Bihn . 

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tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Friendly Flight Approved Carry-on Luggage Hand Water-resistant Lightweight Business Rucksack, Durable Large Weekender Bag Daypack Fits 17.3 Inch Laptop

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This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.

Contains at least 50% recycled material.

Products certified to the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) contain recycled content that has been independently verified at each stage of the supply chain, from the source to the final product. In addition, social, environmental, and chemical criteria related to processing are required. The purchase of Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified products demonstrates demand for recycled content and best processing practices in the supply chain.

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Manufactured on farms or in facilities that protect the rights and/or health of workers.

Made with chemicals safer for human health and the environment.

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About this item.

• Large Capacity & Organized: 40L, Dimensions: 20.47 x13.39 x9.06 inch; Features 3 spacious compartments - the quick-access main compartment, tech storage and front pocket to organize your clothes, toiletries, books, and a 17” laptop, tablet and accessories for up to 4 days trip; The backpack offers dependable protection and multiple pockets for your travel essentials and keep you organized and ready to travel on the go.
• Convenient Storage: You can reach the main compartment from the quick access front pocket for easy reach of your travel essentials on the go, and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking; The tech compartment can accommodate up to 17" laptop and 12.9 inch iPad with accessories; Front pocket, top pocket and side pockets for easy access to glasses, documents and travel liquids, etc.
• TSA Friendly & Flight Approved: The laptop compartment is friendly designed to be opened 90°-180° for security scanning, helps get through airport security checkpoints quick and easy; And the dimension meets the maximum size requirements by IATA flight, it's ideal for airplane traveling.
• Built to Last and Environmentally Friendly: Made of premium quality YKK zippers and durable recycled fabric - that is 100% post-Consumer material made from PET plastic bottles, which is environmentally friendly and it can also reduce energy consumption and pollution; Keep traveling with the best recycled fabric! The results might surprise you!
• Ultra-comfortable & Easy Carry: 3D padded back panel and contoured thick shoulder straps for superior ergonomic comfort. An adjustable chest buckle help transfer weight off your shoulders, keeping you relaxed and cozy all the time; Two handles, one on top and one on the side provide flexible carrying experience. A strap on the back for luggage pass-through for convenient carry.

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Fantastic travel backpack! Carry on and under seat!

Tomtoc's 40L Travel Tech Bag!

Marc Houston

Customer Review: CUSTOMIZABLE. DARKEST BLACK. BIG BOY BAG.

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Why I Use The tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L

The only weekend bag you'll ever carry...

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Product description.

tomtoc Navigator-T66 40L Carry-on Travel Backpack

tomtoc designed this large carry-on travel backpack luggage to meet all of the requirements of short business trips or family travel, it features lots of multi-functional compartments to hold necessary things including laptops, tablets, cellphones, power banks, books, wallets, clothes, umbrella, camera, etc. A great choice for traveling, commuting, business trip, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

External Dimensions: 20.47 x13.39 x9.06 inch

40L Travel Backpack

The large compartment can be unzipped like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking, fits up to 4 days trip

Innovative Clam Shell Opening Design

No need to find the zipper pulls, You can easily gain access to the main compartment

TSA Friendly

180° opening design for easy and quick airport security checkpoint

Quick-access Pocket

The front side with a hidden zipper enables easy access to the main compartment

The dimension meets the maximum size requirements by IATA flight, it is ideal for airplane travel.

Made of recycled fabric, which is excellent and environmentally sound and reduced energy consumption and pollution.

Two handles, one on top and one on the side provide a flexible carrying experience.

Features a strap on the back, which you can hang on your suitcase for comfortable carrying during traveling.

tomtoc Featured Recommendations

Product details.

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9.06 x 13.39 x 20.47 inches; 2.65 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ A82-F01D
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ tomtoc
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B097P4JVP7
• Best Sellers Rank: #31 in Laptop Backpacks

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the durability, value, portability, and size of the backpack. For example, they mention it's well built, spacious, and perfect for one bag travel. They appreciate the multiple ways to access the main compartment and the front pocket compartment. Customers also like the comfort, zipper, and compartment right at the top.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the size of the backpack spacious, with a huge main compartment. They say it has numerous compartments that help keep everything organized. Customers also mention that it fits a lot and expands to hold plenty.

"...However, considering its robust construction and ample storage capacity , this trade-off may be acceptable for those prioritizing durability and..." Read more

"...Packs less than 40L stuff. It's still impressive amount of capacity for the price and weight, but due to the rounder design it feels more like a..." Read more

"... Everything fit well into this bag , and the cinch straps compressed everything nicely. Even full, the backpack was remarkably comfortable to carry...." Read more

"...The two water bottle pockets are also nice because they're so deep and not transparent like mesh but I used it more so for storing additional masks,..." Read more

Customers find the backpack easy to carry and great for light travel. They say it's a perfect personal item for traveling, and it fits under the seat on the plane. They also mention that it'll hold so much and still pass as a personal bag.

"...carrying options, including top and side handles, made it convenient to transport when navigating crowded trains or storing in overhead compartments..." Read more

"...I'm talking about the non-boxy and non-rigid design that makes this bag sorta collapsible when you pack less...." Read more

"...and I keep going back to this one for a few reason, -Lightweight while being resilient: There are more durable options for fabric from other..." Read more

"...(although this one is very good for the cost) this is a very practical travel bag Huge main compartment...." Read more

Customers like the durability of the backpack. They mention that it's well-built, sturdy, and of good quality. The reinforced stitching and weather-resistant exterior provide peace of mind. The straps are comfortable and support the weight of the bag very well. Customers also say that the size was perfect and it handled heavy loads comfortably.

"...The reinforced stitching and weather-resistant exterior provided peace of mind, even during unexpected rain showers that was expected visiting Japan..." Read more

"...Overall, I was shocked at the high quality of this bag, given its modest price. This is a really great bag." Read more

"...-Lightweight while being resilient : There are more durable options for fabric from other companies but for me this bag hits the sweet spot for a..." Read more

"I just bought this backpack and I am impressed with the quality of construction and materials ...." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the backpack. They say it's well worth the price, has solid value, and is comfortable for trips. Some customers also like the dual side bottle holders.

"Thinks I like:- Price . Usually see a $200+ price tag on bags with similar build quality and size. Just can't beat this bag's value prop.-..." Read more

"...Overall, I was shocked at the high quality of this bag, given its modest price . This is a really great bag." Read more

"...(although this one is very good for the cost ) this is a very practical travel bag..." Read more

"...Bottom line … given its price point and for those of you that do short trips (7 days or less) and prefer to carry your stuff, I think this pack is..." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the backpack. They mention that the shoulder straps are comfortable and support the weight of the bag very well. They also appreciate the padded back and say that it provides ease of access and comfort. Customers are impressed with the features and comfort for value.

"...adjustable shoulder straps and padded back panel ensured that I remained comfortable , even during long days of exploration...." Read more

"... Much more comfortable than any other $200+ travel pack I've owned (maybe on par with Aer).- Weight. It's only 2.2lbs...." Read more

"...The shoulder straps are very nicely padded and comfortable . the chest buckle stabilized everything. The zippers are excellent quality, and secure...." Read more

"...Everything about it provides ease of access and comfort ...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the backpack. They mention that it has a great looking backpack, it has an exceptional durability, thoughtful design, and ample storage capacity. They appreciate the minimalist look, and the interior design for pockets and storage is perfect. Customers also find the bag fits the description and photos very well.

"...Its exceptional durability, thoughtful design , and ample storage capacity made it well-suited for a variety of travel scenarios...." Read more

"...Aesthetic. It's subjective obviously but I like the rugged yet sleek look .- Can be compressed done...." Read more

"I found this bag fit the description and photos very well . I use it for travel often and it can take the punishment and use fairly well...." Read more

"...- Simple Design : Bucket style hold with four compression straps and a separate back compartment for laptop, documents, and wires/valuables...." Read more

Customers like the pockets in the backpack. They appreciate the zippers and easy access to all the pockets. They also like the dual access main pocket and compression straps. Customers also like that the backpack has multiple ways to access the main compartment. They like the compartment right at the top and the access panel to the main pocket.

"... Duel water bottle pockets .- Luggage pass through.- Aesthetic. It's subjective obviously but I like the rugged yet sleek look.-..." Read more

"...There is a back compartment that has 2 padded sleeves - one for a tablet and one for a laptop...." Read more

"...Has a luggage passthrough that works well, able to access front pocket compartment while in horizontal orientationHas two handles...." Read more

"...It's easy to get to anything and the ability to get in through the side , or to just open everything up is a great option...." Read more

Customers like the zipper. They say the zippers and material are a win. They also say the YKK zippers are high quality, work flawlessly, and are easy to locate. Some customers appreciate that the zipper is somewhat hidden. They mention that the interior has a tear open zipper tab and that there was no problem with straps or zippers.

"...the chest buckle stabilized everything. The zippers are excellent quality , and secure...." Read more

"...Opens on both sides. The interior has a tear open zipper tab . Very satisfying to use. Reminds me of Peak Designs packing cubes..." Read more

"...It has handles in all the right spaces and places and the zippers are easy to locate ...." Read more

"...I especially love the zipper pouch against my back to “hide” our passports. Great travel bag!" Read more

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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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The 11 Most Durable Backpacks for Every Style and Adventure

Rain, dirt, drops, and falls — these backpacks will keep your items protected.

The best durable backpacks look good, fit all of your essentials, and are reliable for protecting all of your essentials. Many are loaded with abrasion-resistant and waterproof materials that still look new even after months of use. Our favorite durable backpacks are also protective on the inside with padded laptop sleeves, separate compartments to keep gear away from clothing and personal items, and linings that are moisture-proof, yet breathable.

To find the most durable backpacks out there, we tested almost 100 bags in our New York City lab and during our own travels across the globe. Each backpack was evaluated with emphasis on durability, portability, design, and overall function. Whether you’re a frequent camper, international traveler, or daily commuter looking for a backpack to last you a lifetime, these are the best durable backpacks.

Best Overall: Kühl Eskape 25 Backpack

Buy at Kuhl.com

Why We Love It

It’s incredibly spacious and fully weatherproof.

What to Consider

The backpack is on the longer side, so may be less comfortable for shorter users.

The Kühl Eskape 25 Backpack is not only incredibly durable, it’s also spacious with top-tier organizational features. The main compartment is perfect for storing shoes or gear while the back pocket unzips like a clamshell suitcase for easy access to all of your items. It also features a padded laptop sleeve, small internal pockets, and water bottle pockets on both sides of the outer frame. When it comes to adjustability, we love that the sternum strap can be moved up and down to comfortably fit any chest size and tightens like a standard sternum strap to keep you secure.

Overall, it’s a very sturdy backpack with great weight distribution. There is also a luggage sleeve that makes it a great personal item for flights and a plush side handle that is great for grabbing and putting it in the overhead bin. At 20.5 inches tall, this pack is on the longer side, so shorter users may find it less comfortable to wear for long periods of time, depending on their back length and preferences. During testing, we threw this bag off a counter multiple times and, while it picked up some dirt, it didn’t suffer from any scuffing or scratches. As a water and weatherproof bag, we found its outer nylon to be incredibly durable and all of the hardware to be high-quality. The thick, well-constructed design, number of storage options, and additional features show a true understanding of traveler needs went into the design of this backpack.

The Details: TPU-laminated nylon | 25 liters

Best Convertible: Away F.A.R. Convertible Backpack 45L

Buy at Awaytravel.com

The interior padding protects laptops and other tech items even from hard falls.

It's a long bag, so may not be comfortable for those with shorter torsos.

This sleek bag may look compact, but we were surprised at just how spacious it is. It easily fit our entire packing list and extra items, and we still felt like we could've stuffed more inside — making this an ideal backpack for anyone who loves souvenir shopping. The backpack features multiple large compartments, compression straps, and small pockets that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. The additional laptop sleeve is also very well padded and our tester laptop sustained zero damage after throwing the backpack off a ledge three times. We recreated an airplane set in our New York City lab, where we also tested this bag, finding it easy to lift into the overhead bin and maneuver under the seat. While the backpack is rather long, it sports well-cushioned shoulder straps that makes carrying a breeze, even when walking for long periods of time, and the side handle adds the ability to hold it like a duffel bag for extra convenience.

The Details: Recycled polyester | 45 liters | 3.32 pounds

Best Carry-on: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Rei.com

The inside mesh pockets make it easy to organize your items, even when you’re on the go.

The boxy shape may take some getting used to.

For a durable backpack that’s perfect as a carry-on or hiking pack, look to Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Travel Pack. Made with TPU-coated polyester, this bag showed no signs of wear after we tossed it multiple times, and we’re confident the thick material would hold up against the elements, even if you took it camping. It also comes with a built-in raincover to add extra protection. The structured shape of the bag makes it easy to pack and the interior mesh pockets help keep all of your items separated and organized. We especially love how comfortable this backpack is and found the straps to contour to the shoulder and chest area the more you wear it.

The Details: TPU-coated polyester | 35 liters | 3.5 pounds

Best Mini: Carhartt Mini Backpack

Buy at Dickssportinggoods.com

It’s the perfect size for everyday use.

The straps don’t have any added padding.

This light, mini backpack is perfect for day trips . Like most Carhartt bags, it’s designed for long-term use with the outer polyester fabric treated with Rain Defender durable water repellent. The straps are adjustable and the back of the pack is lightly padded to enhance your comfort. While we love the size of this bag for everyday use, it's only 11.75 inches long and won’t fit most laptops. Still, no items were damaged after throwing this backpack off a counter multiple times, and the outside still looked brand new. Going the extra mile for protection, this backpack is designed with a fleece-lined eyewear pocket that protects your lenses and makes it easy to access your favorite shades.

The Details: Polyester | 5 liters | .6 pounds

Related: The 10 Best Backpack Brands for Travelers, Tested and Reviewed

Best Waterproof: Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L

Buy at Tortugabackpacks.com

It’s made with 100 percent recycled materials.

The bag alone is quite heavy.

When it comes to durability, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is built to last no matter how you use it. We tested this bag over a period of four months, including on multiple camping trips , and it’s still in perfect condition. We carried this pack through everything from intense sunlight to stormy rain and even dropped it in the mud, and it kept all items protected and dry and was easy to clean with just a wet cloth. The inside is spacious and the main compartment opens up like a clamshell suitcase for easy access — it even fit a tent, camping pillow, and sweatshirt all in the one main compartment while the built-in compression pocket kept base layers organized and away from dirty gear. The bag itself is quite heavy, but the adjustable hip and sternum straps help take the weight off your back so you can comfortably wear this backpack hiking, camping, or on an airplane and never worry about fatigue.

The Details: Shell200 | 40 liters | 4.5 pounds

Best Sustainable: Troubadour Orbis 1-pocket Backpack

Buy at Shop.equinox.com

Buy at Troubadourgoods.com

It has more pockets than other laptop backpacks we tested.

The tapered top zipper can make it difficult to pack.

Part of Troubador’s Circular Collection , this backpack is made of recycled materials and is itself recyclable. We absolutely love the plush, padded straps and back panel that resemble the comfort of a high-quality hiking pack while still looking like a designer laptop bag. It also features 11 pockets inside and outside of the backpack for peak organization. We especially love the water bottle sleeve that fits up to 24-ounce bottles and the padded tech compartment that is large enough to fit 17-inch laptops. After we dropped it seven times during tests, the backpack looks good as new without any scuff marks or damage. The thick padding did a great job of absorbing all of our tosses, so we’re confident it will remain durable whether you’re using it as a travel bag or commuter pack.

The Details: Recycled polyester

Related: The 16 Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Best for Commuters: Solo Re:Define Backpack

Buy at Walmart.com

The zippers run smoothly even when the backpack is packed to capacity.

It’s water-repellent, not waterproof.

This backpack may look small and unassuming, but we found this to be similar to Mary Poppins’ magic bag when packing — all items from our packing list fit easily as though this were a much higher-capacity backpack. We fit a laptop and tablet in the back panel sleeve; a pair of shoes, a large toiletry bag, a shirt, a pair of pants, and a quarter zip in the main compartment; and a book, wallet, keys, lotion, and headphones in the front zippered compartment. We also love that there are two additional water bottle pockets on each side of the backpack as well as a battery pack pocket that allows you to feed the charging cable to a USB port on the outside of the bag for on-the-go charging. Plus, the bag is made of recycled PET bottles for a durable, water-repellent exterior.

The Details: Recycled PET polyester | 14 liters | 1.43 pounds

Best for Hiking: Gregory Women's Swift 22 H20 Backpack

We tossed this backpack off of rocks and into the snow several times, and it didn’t show any signs of damage.

The hydration pack can be difficult to clean and dry.

For a durable hiking pack, you can’t go wrong with the Gregory Swift 22 H20 Backpack fitted with a 2-liter hydration pack that connects to a straw that’s easy to use mid-hike. At 22 liters, the size is perfect for a long day or even weekend on the trail. The Swift 22 is lightweight, yet sturdy with plenty of padding for comfort. We also tested this backpack on three different body types and each person was able to adjust the shoulder, chest, and hip straps so the bag fit comfortably for long periods of time. In addition to taking the pack out on long hikes in the snow , we tested the backpack over a period of three months and there are still no rips, stains, tears, or snags in the outer fabric.

The Details: Nylon | 22 liters | 2.2 pounds

Best Expandable: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

This bag is clearly built to last and includes a lot of unique features that make traveling a breeze.

The straps aren’t very comfortable when carrying the full pack.

For a utilitarian backpack that’s also sleek enough to use off the trail, consider the Peak Design Travel Backpack. This large pack is easy to organize and features multiple zippers that allow you to access your belongings without fully opening the entire bag. It had no marks or scuffs from being tossed around during our tests and would be a great investment bag for frequent travelers . We also loved the number of carrying straps featured on the bag. In addition to the adjustable shoulder straps, this backpack can be carried by handles on all four main sides of the bag, making it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment of an airplane or train.

The Details: Recycled nylon canvas | 45 liters | 4.5 pounds

Most Versatile: Yeti Crossroads 27L Backpack

It has plenty of pockets and multiple access points to the main compartment.

It doesn't include a hip belt for support.

The Yeti Crossroads backpack is great for those who want a durable bag that still shows off their personality — with eight different colors to choose from, you can certainly choose a style that suits you best. The main compartment features plenty of pockets for organization including a laptop sleeve with some of the best laptop protection we’ve seen in a backpack. While the backpack is on the heavier side, the heft is due to the thick padding that helps make this bag so durable. The outer material is abrasion-resistant and didn’t sustain any damage during our drop tests. We love that the durable zipper holds up even when the bag is nearly overflowing with contents. This is a durable, multi-use pack that would be great as a personal item, carry-on, or even hiking pack for anyone who wants to make sure their items are well-protected and organized.

The Details: TuffSkin Nylon | 22 liters | 3 pounds

Best for Business Trips: Samsonite Elevation Plus Backpack

Buy at Shop.samsonite.com

It has an expandable zipper that adds extra space when needed.

We wish the main compartment opened fully on three sides for easier packing (instead of just two).

This durable and high-quality backpack was clearly designed with travelers in mind. It is designed with plenty of pockets including a padded laptop compartment that can easily fit two laptops or a laptop and a tablet. The external water bottle pocket is also one of the most durable we have ever seen and held the water bottle firmly in place even after we threw the whole backpack off of a table. We love that the front pocket has a magnetic flap to conceal the zipper for extra security while traveling as well as the handy luggage sleeve that allows the backpack to slide over standard luggage handles. The backpack itself is lightweight with plenty of padding along the back and shoulders for all-day comfort. Because of it's high capacity, and the fact that it easily fits underneath airplane seats, this would be a perfect personal item or carry-on backpack.

The Details: Recyclex RPET | 2.2 pounds

Our Testing Process

We tested dozens of different backpacks both in our New York City lab on an airplane set we created and during real-world travels to determine which are the most durable backpacks. Our set included a row of airplane seats from a real plane as well as real overhead bins, so we could thoroughly and accurately access each bag's storage abilities. Each tester began testing by adjusting any straps so that the backpack fit comfortably, noting how many straps there were and if the straps were easy or difficult to adjust. We also examined the pockets, zippers, buckles, and materials of each backpack. We then packed each backpack following a set list to ensure each one’s capacity was tested in the same way. Testers were asked to use the various compartments and pockets featured in the backpack as they normally would.

After the backpacks were packed, testers closed them up, noting how easily all zippers and/or buckles closed. With the bags fully packed and zipped closed, we pushed them off of a counter and let them fall to the floor. We repeated this test three times total per bag and aimed to have the backpacks land at various angles. After tossing, we checked the inside of the backpacks to see if anything was damaged and noted if the backpack itself was scuffed or showed any signs of wear-and-tear. Next, testers lifted the backpacks into our real overhead bins to test whether or not it would easily fit. We made sure to pay attention to any handles or straps that helped lift the bag and maneuver it overhead. We also tested whether or not each bag fit underneath the seats of our airplane to test if they would work as a personal item. After our lab test, the backpacks were sent home with testers for real-world evaluations.

Tips for Buying a Durable Backpack

Consider organization.

When traveling, it’s important to have a bag that includes organizational features to easily access your items. Designs that emphasize pockets or small compartments can be extremely helpful when packing, especially if you will be frequently moving from place to place. You may even want to prioritize a backpack with a clamshell opening so you can easily see all of your items and/or a backpack with external pockets for quick access to important items like your passport, wallet, keys, and phone.

Know the difference between waterproof and water-resistant

If you know you’ll be traveling to a wet climate, it’s important to choose a durable backpack that can fully withstand the elements. Waterproof bags will offer the highest level of protection against moisture, while water-resistant backpacks will prevent leaks to a certain degree but may not keep the inside of your bag completely dry.

Think about versatility

Even if you are looking for a durable backpack for everyday use, you’ll want to consider one with a versatile design that can be used for various purposes. Some durable bags can look a lot like hiking packs, but may be too large for use during commutes or day trips. Think about a bag that’s large enough to fit all of your essential items but still durable enough to keep everything safe and protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big of a backpack should I get?

The size of your backpack mainly depends on your personal preference; however, it is important to look at the height of your backpack, especially if it has a structured frame. You want to be sure that your backpack will comfortably fit along your own back without straining or hindering your movement in any way.

How should a backpack fit?

The frame of your backpack should comfortably fit from just below your shoulders to just above your waist. Any higher, and you risk compromising your neck and shoulder movements, and any lower, and you may have issues with mobility. Your backpack should also fit comfortably against your back without a lot of space in between. Backpacks with adjustable hip, shoulder, and/or chest straps can help make sure you get the perfect fit to keep you comfortable.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Taylor Fox is a commerce writer at Travel + Leisure where she researches, reviews, and writes about a wide range of products. To select the best durable backpacks, she called on her own experience as a traveler and worked with editors and T+L testers on a series of lab and real-world insights.

Related: The 12 Best Convertible Backpack Totes of 2024

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20 Facts About Moscow: Fun & Interesting

Russias capital Moscow is a city full of history, that is perhaps only known for things like Red Square, the Kremlin and St. Basil’s cathedral.

But,  it pays to know a few facts about Moscow before you take a trip there. Here are 2o facts about Moscow.

Moscow Is Huge

Moscow is the largest city in Europe in fact Moscow is so big that it has the right to be its own country. The city of Moscow is home to 12 million residents which puts it in the top 10 most populated cities in the world. There are more people in Moscow than in both Switzerland and Norway combined.

Stay Dogs Use The Metro In Moscow

The stray dogs of Moscow cityare super smart and have learned to use the city’s metro in order to survive the cold winters. While using the metro you might just bump into one of these super-smart train-loving dogs. They recognize the stops by the tannoy announcements and hop and off just like we do.

There Is An Underground River In Moscow

The Neglinnaya River flowed through the Russian capital for centuries undisturbed but no one could live on the western side of its banks as it flooded every year. Russian engineering then took over and they diverted the river into an underground tunnel which now flows under Neglinnaya Street into the Moskva river and then built on the old river that is now dry.

The Tunisian Embassy Is Haunted

The Tunisian Embassy in Moscow is the old home of Lavrentiy Beria, the chief of the secret police during Stalin’s era. It’s said that Lavrentiy would kidnap beautiful women, take them home, have his way with them and then murder them. They are now said to haunt the Tunisian Embassy at 28 Malaya Nikitskaya St.

Diplomats have woken up to safes being open and papers scattered everywhere, they hear footsteps in the day and the night and a lot of Tunisian Diplomats have asked to be relocated due to the spooky occurrences.

Gorky Park Is Amazingly Busy

Gorky Park is the central park of Moscow and on average plays host to 100,000 people every day. That is one busy park and one of the busiest in the world.

Izmailovo Park Is Huge

Izmailovo Park is actually one of the largest urban parks in the world. It measured  15.34 square kilometers (1534 hectares) and is roughly six times Central Park, if that helps.

It Is A Religious Capital

Fun fact about Moscow, it is actually the spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Moscow Has The Most Billionaires

Moscow is home to more billionaires than any other city in the world. There are around 84 billionaires living in Moscow with a combined total wealth of 367 billion dollars. New York comes second with 62 billionaires live there.

The Metro Never Breaks Down

If you live in a city then you know how annoying it is when the metro breaks and you’re late for work. Well, this doesn’t happen in Moscow. The Moscow Metro has only broken down once, on the 16th of October in 1941, and has never failed since.

The Largest Bell In The World Is In Moscow

The Tsar Bell we know today weighs 200 tonnes and it has never been rung, but this is the third version of this huge bell. The first was 18 tonnes and required 24 men just to make it ring but it was then broken into pieces during a fire. The same thing happened to Tsar Bell version 2, and then came version 3 which was buried after another fire and took 40 years to get out.

Moscow Doesn’t Believe In Tears

The saying “Moscow Doesn’t Believe In Tears” is one of the oldest sayings in the country. It stems pack to people who couldn’t pay their tribute to Moscow and would cry and beg for an extension. The emperor would say “Moscow Doesn’t Believe In Tears”.

The Highest Monument In Moscow

The highest monument in Moscow is the Victory Obelisk. It’s a huge 141.8 meters tall and was built in May 1995 as a representation of the Great Patriotic War. Every 10 cm of the Victory Obelisk represents a single fay of the war.

The Seven Sisters Of Moscow

The seven sisters of Moscow, aka Stalin’s Skyscrapers, are 7 identical skyscrapers that stand amongst Moscow’s skyline. Today 2 are apartments, 2 are offices, 2 are hotels, and one is a university.

The Busiest Metro

9 million people use the Moscow Metro every day which is more than New York and London combined.

Moscow State University  

Maybe something most people don’t know, but Moscow State University is actually the world’s largest university building.

Largest Botanical Garden

Moscow is home to Europe’s biggest botanical garden, the Botanical Garden of the Academy of Sciences which is home to 18,000 species of plants from around the Soviet Union and the rest of the world.

There’s A Lot Of Choice For Dinners Out

There are over 2700 different restaurants in Moscow and the number is ever-growing. You’ll never be short of dinner options in Moscow and just imagine searching on Just-Eat.

The Highest Tower In Europe

The Ostankino TV Tower in Moscow is the tallest in all of Europe and measures an incredible 540 meter high.

Assumption Cathedral

In the Kremlin, you’ll find the oldest building that survived all the fires in Moscow, the Assumption Cathedral. It was completed in August of 1479 and is now 542 years old. The most impressive thing is that it managed to survive all the fires Moscow experienced.

The Kremlin Was Rebuilt By Italians

The Kremlin, located right near Red Square, is actually called the Moscow Kremlin. In the 15th century, the Moscow Kremlin wall and its temples were in serious need of repair but the Russian architects at the time couldn’t handle it. Grand Duke Ivan III then asked the Italians to come and help restore the Kremlin to its former glory.

Moscow Has Burned Down A Lot

The city of Moscow has burned down countless times. All the houses in Moscow used to be built from wood and thus the city burned to its knees quite easily and has been rebuilt several times. These were the fires that burned down the Tsar Bells.

McDonald’s Created A Scene

The first Mcdonald’s opened in Moscow in January of 1990. Despite the cold weather on that winter’s day, the Moscow residents cued patiently waiting for their first McDonald’s meal. The cue was so long it measured several kilometers.

There Was A Tornado In Moscow

Moscow’s one and the only tornado hit the city on June 29, 1904. The tornado ran rampant through the streets destroying a lot of the ancient trees of Sokolniki and destroyed a lot of nearby villages and homes in the city.

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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Russian Deputy Defence Minister Loses Appeal Against Detention in $11 Million Bribe Case

Timur Ivanov, Russian Deputy Defence Minister, who was dismissed from his post and taken into custody on suspicion of accepting bribes, appears on a screen via a video link during a court hearing to consider an appeal against his pre-trial detention in Moscow, Russia, May 8, 2024, in this still image taken from video. Moscow City Court's Press Office/Handout via REUTERS

MOSCOW (Reuters) -A Russian court on Wednesday rejected an appeal by deputy defence minister Timur Ivanov against his pre-trial detention in a bribery case in which his lawyer said he denies taking kickbacks worth about a billion roubles ($10.9 million).

The Moscow court service said Ivanov's appeal to be released or placed under house arrest was denied.

In the biggest corruption scandal for years involving a government minister, Ivanov is accused of receiving a "particularly large bribe" in the form of property services from a construction company.

"The point is that allegedly Ivanov’s contractors built facilities for Ivanov for free, which is not true," state news agency RIA quoted his lawyer Murad Musayev as saying.

"I don’t remember the amount now, about one billion roubles."

It was the first time such a figure had been mentioned.

Photos You Should See - April 2024

Ivanov had been responsible at the defence ministry for a large budget for military construction projects. His arrest last month by the FSB security service was widely seen as a blow to his boss, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, and as a sign of fighting within the elite as President Vladimir Putin prepares to name a new government at the start of his fifth term.

Interfax news agency quoted Ivanov's lawyer as saying he had been temporarily removed from his ministerial duties.

The Moscow court said it rejected a similar appeal by Sergei Borodin, a friend of Ivanov who is also charged with conspiring to take bribes, against his pre-trial detention.

Two other men were arrested in the same week. One was Alexander Fomin, the co-founder of the construction company that allegedly provided the bribes. The other was Anton Filatov, the former head of several companies subordinate to the defence ministry, who is suspected of large-scale embezzlement.

'PHILOSOPHICAL'

Ivanov had appeared in military uniform when first brought to court after his arrest, but was wearing plain clothes in photographs from Wednesday's hearing.

Lawyer Musayev told reporters the defence had brought to court a pile of state awards that Ivanov had received in order to testify to his good character. A photograph from the courtroom showed them stacked on a wooden table.

He said the defence team had not been given access to visit Ivanov in Moscow's Lefortovo prison, a jail favoured by the FSB where Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is also being held in pre-trial detention on spying charges he denies.

"(Ivanov) is cheerful and calm. Of course he's at a loss, but he's had enough time to make sense of this situation, you can say he's taking a philosophical view of it," Musayev said.

"He just wants to understand the reason for what's happening, and why it's happening right now."

(Reporting by Reuters, writing by Mark Trevelyan, Editing by Angus MacSwan and Gareth Jones)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Moscow Kremlin: skip-the-line tickets and 8 things not to miss

• April 18, 2024

The Moscow Kremlin, symbol of Russi! It’s the Kremlin’s wall that you can see on Red Square. The Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin are both listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . We visited the Moscow Kremlin several times, with skip-the-line tickets and without, with my family, but also with my colleagues when I was living in Moscow.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin: tips and practical information

I will give here the key info to save time (and money) before the visit and once there:

• Map, how to get there, opening hours
• Entry tickets to the Kremlin and the Armoury Chamber, including skip-the-line entry tickets
• Guided tours

Map of the Moscow Kremlin, how to get there and opening hours

The Kremlin is large, so I have created a map to help you find your bearings which you will find below. If you are interested in other Moscow maps, find them in Free Moscow Maps.

How to get there? Where is the entrance to the Moscow Kremlin?

• The nearest metro station is Biblioteka Imeni Lenina (point 1 on the map) on the red line. On the other hand, even if we all have in mind, the image of the Kremlin on Red Square, the entrance is NOT located directly on the square. There is an entrance on the Red Square, but it is for stuff only.
• The entrance to the Kremlin is on another side of the Kremlin (point 3 on the map).
• Check also our blog post about Where to stay in Moscow? to be sure to stay in the most interesting districts of Moscow.

Opening hours

The Kremlin is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, except Thursday.

Good to know! It is not possible to enter the Kremlin territory with suitcases, bulky bags or animals. If you come with a suitcase anyway, there is a free concierge not far from the cash desks. The total dimensions must not exceed 150 cm (total, that is to say if we add the height, width and thickness). See the rules on the Kremlin website .

How to buy the entry tickets to visit Moscow Kremlin?

Several tickets. Later in the article I will describe in more detail what is behind the walls of the Moscow Kremlin, but we can already divide the Kremlin into several parts: the architectural ensemble of the Cathedral Square, the Armoury Chamber, the Diamond Fund and the Ivan-The-Great Bell Tower. There are entry tickets for each of these parts. So you have a choice. What is most visited is the architectural ensemble of the Cathedral Square.

Armoury Chamber. The number of entry tickets to the Armoury Chamber is limited, to make the visit more pleasant for visitors. As with the Cathedral Square, the entry tickets can be purchased online (see below). And I would recommend to buy tickets to the Armoury Chamber in advance.

There are two options for visiting the Kremlin without a guide : buy tickets in ticket offices once there OR then buy them on the Internet, then take them at the ticket offices on site with less queuing. On the other hand, if you want to have more information about the Kremlin, a guided tour can be interesting: skip-the-line, accompaniment and not necessarily expensive for many.

Buy tickets for the Kremlin on site

The ticket offices are open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day, except Thursday . They are located in the Alexandrovsky Garden which runs along the walls of the Moscow Kremlin ( point 2 on the map above). It is possible to pay by bank card or in cash (rubles). See the post How to pay in Russia ?, if you need more info.

Good to know! Saturday is a day to avoid because there are many more people than the other days, especially in the morning. In general, the crowds are higher in the morning.

Moscow Kremlin guided tours

As tickets for the Armoury Chamber are limited, to go anyway you can go through guided tours, in groups or with a private guide. Certified guides have fast-track tickets and may still have seats. In addition, a guided tour in the Kremlin is worth it: you learn a lot and with many it is not so expensive, especially now with a fairly weak ruble.

With a private English-speaking guide

Only a certified guide is allowed to show you the Moscow Kremlin.

From June to September, the Kremlin is very visited and even official guides cannot have tickets. During this period, one of the solutions for a guided tour is a group visit.

Moscow Kremlin group tour in English

The second solution is to visit the Kremlin and the Armoury Chamber in a group. This is surprising, but it is not necessarily more economical than with a private guide. However, if there are no more entry tickets, this is a good solution.

Can we take pictures inside the Moscow Kremlin?

According to the Moscow Kremlin website , “it is forbidden to take photos and videos” inside the Armoury Chamber and the cathedrals”. There is no restriction for the exterior. You can still try to take photos inside the buildings, but the guards, often guards, will quickly point you out to stop.

Estimated visit time

A visit to the Kremlin and the Palace of Armor takes around 4 hours with a guided tour. If you go alone (without guide), it’s more or less equivalent. If you have fast-track tickets or you visit the Kremlin and the Palace of Armor with a certified guide, you also save a little time.

Good to know. There is nothing to eat inside the Kremlin, except maybe small snacks or ice cream. On the other hand, there are a few fast food restaurants near Okhotny Ryad station, but above all a lot of addresses on Nikolskaya Street , near Red Square and the Bolshoi Theater.

The Moscow Kremlin: what to see?

Kremlin means fortress in Slavic. The Moscow Kremlin is therefore not the only Kremlin in Russia. Nevertheless, it is the best known kremlin. It housed first the residence of the tsars, then the seat of the Soviet government, and today the Russian government. Finally, what is behind its walls?

• Cathedrals and churches;
• Exhibitions and museums;
• Palace of the Patriarch;
• State buildings which are not to be visited.

Most of the Kremlin to see is located on the Cathedral Square .

Cathedrals and churches of the Moscow Kremlin

Dormition cathedral.

(point 4 on the map, often called the Cathedral of the Assumption)

Built in 1475 and 1479 under the direction of an Italian architect, it was built in place of a small church erected by Ivan I to mark the accession of Moscow to the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. The first stone church in Moscow, it was used for the coronation and marriage ceremonies of the Czars, as well as for important events of the heads of the Church.

Annunciation Cathedral

(point 5 on the map)

Built in 1489, this cathedral has also preserved magnificent fragments of paintings from its time. The floor is in jasper. The cathedral was a private place for the Czars to gather and confess. Until the beginning of the 20th century, the chaplain was the personal confessor of members of the Tsar’s family .

Archangel Saint Michael’s Cathedral

(point 6 on the map)

Built in 1508 by an Italian architect (again!), One finds outside and inside the cathedral of Venetian Renaissance features. 46 tombs continue the necropolis of the cathedral. It is the necropolis of the princes of Moscow (independent principality of Moscow), and the first tsars of Russia. Here are the photos (author: poznamka).

Church of the Deposition-of-the-Robe

(point 7 on the map)

Built from 1484 to 1485, the church was built in honor of the relics of the Virgin brought from Palestine to Constantinople in 452.

Ivan The Great Bell Tower

(point 8 on the map)

The bell tower is 81 meters high. Built in 1508 and blown up by Napoleon’s army in 1812, the tower and the bell tower were rebuilt soon after. Also note that a beautiful panoramic view opens from the bell tower over the city.

Museums of the Moscow Kremlin

Armoury chamber.

(point 9 on the map)

This museum of applied arts brings together an exceptional collection of the treasures of the tsars. There we find jewelry, crowns, costumes, diamonds, thrones, weapons and armor, all the riches of Russian princes and tsars accumulated during their centuries of reign.

Kremlin Museum of Treasures and Antiquities

(point 10 on the map)

This museum is located in the basement of the Annunciation Cathedral. It contains objects found during archaeological excavations on the territory of the Kremlin. They are mainly objects from medieval Russia.

Patriarch’s Palace

(point 11 on the map)

Built on the orders of Patriarch Nikon in 1655, this palace includes several rooms and a church, the Church of the Twelve Apostles. The particularity of this place is the cruciform room of 300m² which has no pillars. There are also objects that occupied the rooms: furniture, the gospels, icons.

Other Kremlin attractions

There are other interesting attractions you can see during your visit to the Moscow Kremlin. For example, you can take a refreshing break in the Taïniski garden. In addition, in a small corner of the garden is a platform for helicopters, it can be used by the Russian President in an emergency!

Tsar Pouchka (point 12) is also an attraction (especially well known to Russians). It’s a gigantic cannon that weighs almost 40 tonnes! The Guinness Book of Records considers it the largest howitzer ever built.

In the same spirit, you can also see Tsar Kolokol (point 13) , a gigantic bell tower which is located very close to the bell tower of Ivan the Great.

Around the Moscow Kremlin

I have summarized everything around the Kremlin and Red Square in this blog post:

• Red Square: everything you need to know

Interesting in Moscow:

• Where to stay in Moscow?
• How to get from airport to Moscow?
• Things to visit in Moscow: what to do and to see in Moscow?
• Visit Novodevichy Couvent and cemetery

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