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The 14 Best Kids Backpacks for Travel, Tested and Reviewed

We tested backpacks with kids aged 3 to 18 years old and picked the best bags for upcoming trips.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Other Backpacks We Tested

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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Travel + Leisure

A backpack designed for kids is the best way to store any and all carry-on essentials in one easy-to-access place. From packing snacks to technology, a kids travel backpack can be a game-changer on your next family vacation, ensuring they have what they need on long journeys.

Our expert product-testing parents and their children tried 38 kids backpacks from brands like Nike, Lululemon, Jansport, and more to find the best of the best for durability, comfort, design, and capacity. After carefully reviewing each backpack, we're recommending the most durable, comfortable, and functional bags for all ages ranging from preschoolers to seniors in high school.

Best Overall, Younger Kids

Wildkin jurassic dinosaurs backpack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

The backpack has comfy padded straps and a material that spot cleans easily.

There aren’t many pockets.

The Wildkin Pack-it-all Backpack is both kid- and parent-approved after impressing us in the durability and comfort testing categories. While the dinosaur print pattern was a big factor in design ratings, the lightweight material and padded straps also won us over. The adjustable straps were easy to tighten and the backpack remained securely fastened, especially for active kiddos. No worries if the backpack gets dirty, as all you have to do is grab a washcloth and the bag can be spot-cleaned in minutes to look good as new.

In addition, we love that the capacity is big enough to fit a laptop, folders, a lunchbox, and a water bottle without feeling bulky or cumbersome to carry. The smooth zippers open up to reveal a spacious main compartment, but we wish there were a few more pockets besides the front slip pocket and side water bottle holder. With no major drawbacks during testing, we think this Wildkin backpack is plenty versatile for your little one to travel from the classroom to the airport in comfort and style.

The Details: 1.25 pounds | 15 x 11 x 4.7 inches | Ages 3 to 10

Travel + Leisure

Best Overall, Older Kids

The north face vault backpack.

The 27-liter capacity is perfect for storing everyday school supplies without feeling too bulky. 

There could be one more zippered pocket for extra organization. 

Middle and high schoolers alike will appreciate the sleek and straightforward design of The North Face Vault Backpack. The 27-liter capacity is just the right size for loading up the bag with necessities for school, including a lunchbox, water bottle, binders, and a laptop or tablet, and would offer great space for plane trips, too. 

There are two separate compartments for dividing contents with a 15-inch laptop sleeve in the back section and several slip and zippered pockets in the front compartment. One more zippered pocket on the inside of either compartment would have been helpful for extra organization but the backpack still offers a solid amount of storage. When it comes to comfort, the back panel has two strips of thick foam padding in addition to the plush padded shoulder straps that are also adjustable. The bag is the perfect size for swinging it on and off the shoulders and the zippered pockets are easy to access with one hand to conveniently grab a snack or water bottle. 

The Details: 27 liters | 1.11 pounds | 18 x 11 x 8.5 inches | 15-inch laptop sleeve 

Best Budget

Abshoo classical travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 4 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

The generous capacity is perfect for packing everything from clothes to snacks.

It feels a bit bulky to wear.

This cost-effective travel backpack wowed us with an impressive capacity for packing kids' essentials. With two large zippered compartments, the bag can stash a lunch box, water bottle, folders, gloves, and a football for school days — all in just one section — so we're certain in-flight essentials will easily fit, too. Although the backpack feels a bit bulky due to its large capacity, the adjustable and padded straps certainly help with customizing the fit of the backpack for extra comfort. After using the backpack in various weather conditions like rain and snow (and the occasional water bottle leak), it looks good as new without any signs of wear.

The Details: 16.5 x 12.2 x 5.3 inches | Ages 3 and up

Best for Air Travel

State bags kane kids backpack.

The dual compartments make it easy to separate and organize items while flying.

It’s best suited for older kids.

When it comes to traveling by airplane, the State Bags Kane Kids Double Pocket Backpack is the best option for kids. The two spacious compartments make it easy to efficiently pack a carry-on backpack with your child since there are designated spots for air travel essentials plus a luggage sleeve on the reverse. The back compartment has a padded laptop or tablet sleeve, so you’ll know exactly where to grab electronics when you pass through TSA security checkpoints. Since both the back and front sections are similar sizes, there’s plenty of space for a blanket, headphones, snacks, and a change of clothes.

After testing the backpack on sunny and rainy days, we were thrilled that the polyester canvas material holds up perfectly against the elements without any color fading or staining. For long travel days, we’re confident this backpack will provide plenty of comfort, as we found the padded and adjustable straps to be snug and secure without feeling constrictive or rough. One thing to note is that the bag is on the bulkier side so it could be too large for smaller kids.

The Details: 16 liters | 14.95 x 11.22 x 7.5 inches | Ages 7 and up

Nike Elemental Kids Backpack

• Capacity 4.2 /5
• Design 3.9 /5

The design is simple and ideal for versatility.

The capacity is on the smaller side.

The no-frills design of the Nike Elemental Backpack makes it a versatile backpack for a range of activities. Our middle-school-aged tester used the backpack for trips to school, but they noted after the initial tests that they are looking forward to using it for upcoming hikes, as its lightweight feel is perfect for treks. While the polyester material is noticeably lightweight, the backpack doesn’t feel flimsy or any less supportive. In fact, the padded back panel and straps were a hit with our tester for comfort and stability while running or walking. There aren’t any interior pockets, but we were still able to fit books and a jacket, though the capacity could be a bit bigger if the backpack is being used for school. One of the best parts of the bag is that it’s exceptionally easy to clean with a paper towel to wipe away stains from daily wear and tear.

The Details: 20 liters | 18 x 12 x 5 inches

Best Pattern

Lands end kids classmate small backpack.

The fabric design is colorful and sparkly without getting glitter everywhere.

The straps are slightly difficult to adjust.

Lands’ End is known for boasting unique patterns on clothing and accessories, and the Kids ClassMate Small Backpack is no exception. The sparkly green, purple, and blue paint stripe pattern was an instant eye-catcher and there are plenty more unique colors and patterns to choose from. Besides the colorful design, we love the lightweight polyester material of the backpack and our tester was able to wear it without feeling any discomfort. Parents will appreciate the lighter weight of the backpack since they carry the bag half of the time, too. The only issue you may run into is with adjusting the backpack straps, as it might be slightly difficult for little ones. One of the bag's best features is that the material dries very quickly if it gets wet or caught in the rain, so we think this backpack not only looks stylish, but it’s versatile and functional for traveling year-round.

The Details: 16 x 11.5 x 6 inches

Best Customizable

Light + nine kids starter backpack.

• Durability 4 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The exterior polyester has little holes in it for charms and pins.

The holes in the material could make it difficult to clean.

This customizable backpack makes getting ready for school or traveling a little more fun with the option to buy Light + Nine’s Nimix decor sets for adding removable patches like rainbows, animals, and astronauts. The backpack is designed for adding decorations without damaging the exterior fabric thanks to the small silicone holes surrounding the bag. In addition to the customizable features, we appreciate that the lining is easy to wipe down for cleaning, and the backpack can be unzipped to lay flat to clean and dry easier. The backpack and straps feel a little stiff, but the materials loosen up over time so we don't think that's a deal-breaker by any means.

The Details: 1 pound | 11.5 x 14.5 x 4 inches | Ages 3 to 6

Best Wheeled

J world new york sunrise rolling backpack.

It’s easy for small children to wear the backpack or wheel it when it’s packed full.

We wish there were a few more pockets for organization.

Sometimes a backpack can be a little too heavy for a little one, so we’re big fans of the JWorld Sunrise Rolling Backpack. From wheeling the bag to preschool to packing it with snacks and clothes for trips, it's super easy and intuitive to load up and use the bag. The main compartment is simple to unzip with two hands so you can pack it with clothes, a water bottle, a tablet, books, and snacks. While we love the spacious main compartment, we wish there were a few more interior pockets for storing smaller items. While it's important to not back a bag too full for small kids, the option to roll the backpack if it felt too heavy is helpful for days when the bag is on the heavier side. Whether the backpack was wheeled or carried, it proved to be plenty comfortable while on the go and easy to maneuver, which is perfect for a busy airport .

The Details: 4.5 pounds | 34.50 liters | 18 x 13 x 9 inches | Ages 8 and up

Best for Toddlers

Skip hop spark style backpack rocket.

Skip Hop 

The generous capacity is ideal for travel necessities for little ones like an extra change of clothes.

The straps are lightly padded and a bit stiff at first.

The rocket ship design of the Skip Hop Spark Style Big Kid Backpack offers a creative backpack that toddlers will surely love. Thanks to the wide opening into the main compartment, it was a breeze to pack toddler travel essentials like a change of clothes, snacks, and a water bottle. The durability of the backpack material made it a winner since all it needs is a quick spot clean to get any dirt or other stains out quickly. While this wasn’t the most comfortable backpack we tested due to the stiff straps and less padding, there wasn’t any noticeable discomfort or pain after wearing the backpack over time.

The Details: 10.5 x 5 x 14 inches | Ages 3 and up

Best for Middle Schoolers

High sierra loop backpack.

• Durability 4.2 /5

There are lots of pockets and compartments for organizing school supplies.

The capacity could be a bit bigger.

The High Sierra Loop Daypack Backpack offers an impressive amount of comfort and generous capacity for storing school supplies. The three different-sized compartments make it easy to pack items like folders, binders, lunch boxes, headphones, pencil cases, and water bottles with ease. There is an interior media pocket that is ideal for easy access to headphones or a tablet while traveling. We wish the middle compartment was a little bit bigger for a lunch box, as it was a squeeze to get it in with everything else, but the capacity works well for travel and school necessities. The straps are fully padded and, although there isn’t a chest strap, the weight feels evenly distributed when our tester wore the backpack for long periods of time. After wearing the backpack in the rain, we’re happy to report that it kept all of the contents dry, and with lots of use to and from school, it’s still in excellent condition with minimal stains.

The Details: 2.05 pounds | 33 liters | 19 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches

Best Organization

L.l. bean deluxe book pack.

• Design 4.2 /5

There are plenty of pockets and the capacity is large enough to fit a jacket, books, snacks, and a water bottle.

The chest strap doesn’t get tight enough to fit snugly across the chest. 

The L.L.Bean Deluxe Book Pack will keep the contents of the backpack neatly organized thanks to the variety of pockets and pouches for a variety of items. We were able to fit a jacket, a water bottle, a folder, a binder, and several library books between the two main compartments. For smaller items like little toys or cash, we loved the interior zipper and mesh pockets, as well as the small front pocket for easy access to the packed items. In terms of comfort, the plush padded straps were a hit with our tester and although the chest strap was a little big, the backpack stayed in place while running to catch the bus.

The Details: 1.5 pounds | 32 liters | Nylon | Ages 10 and up

Nordace Aerial Infinity Backpack

The USB charging port, RFID-blocking pockets, and comfortable padded straps make this bag ideal for travel. 

It cannot be machine-washed due to the built-in smart features.

The Aerial Infinity Backpack from Nordace is packed full of handy features to make traveling a breeze, especially for high school and even college students. For charging a laptop, phone, or tablet, the 3-in-1 USB port can accommodate type-C, lightning, and micro-USB cables so that all of your technology can be fully charged on the go (but a power bank is not included). The 20-liter capacity is large enough for basic school supplies or small travel accessories and the high-quality feel of the water-resistant fabric matches the higher price point.

Lined with a breathable soft padding on the back panel and straps, the backpack is exceptionally comfortable for wearing it for long periods of time without getting sweaty or overheating. Additional features include RFID-blocking credit card slots, a variety of slip pockets on the interior, a water bottle holder, and luggage sleeve. One thing to note is that the backpack can’t be machine-washed but dirt and dust easily comes off with the help of a damp washcloth.  

The Details: 20 liters | 2.2 pounds | 18.5 x 11.5 x 6.25  inches | 15-inch laptop sleeve | 3-in-1 USB charging port | RFID-blocking pockets

JanSport Main Campus

The bag lives up the reliable backpack brand’s promise of durability and functionality for all ages.

Some of the pockets and compartments felt excessive. 

One of the most recognizable bag brands out there, you simply can’t go wrong with a durable and affordable JanSport backpack. Come rain or shine, the recycled 600-denier polyester protects the contents packed in the bag thanks to the double-layered and water-resistant fabric. There are two main compartments for packing a sweatshirt, binders, books, notebooks, or a lunchbox, and there are pockets upon pockets for organizing smaller school or travel supplies, too. For peace of mind, the laptop sleeve is fully padded to protect your expensive technology while out and about. 

Some of the pockets seem unnecessary but for those who like to be extra organized, this backpack is your best bet. The fabric does attract some dirt and dust when it’s on the floor but as soon as you shake off the bag, it looks good as new. Plus, there are 25 colors and patterns to choose from to please any age range. 

The Details: 32 liters | 1.55 pounds | 17 x 12.5 x 7 inches | 15-inch laptop sleeve

Best Capacity

Columbia zigzag 30l backpack.

The minimalist design and larger 30-liter capacity makes it easy to pack the bag with a variety of items. 

There could be more pockets for smaller items. 

For packing sweatshirts, lunchboxes, and any smaller supplies in between, the Columbia Zigzag backpack has an impressive 30-liter capacity. The backpack has two main compartments that are super spacious and help separate bigger items to stay naturally organized when traveling or heading to school. There aren’t many interior pockets but the front of the bag has one medium-size zippered pocket and a water bottle holder on the side for some extra storage. For school-aged kids using laptops or tablets, there is a padded laptop sleeve that can fit a device up to 15 inches long. Both the back panel and shoulder straps have generous padding which helps with comfort but it isn’t the most breathable on warmer days which is something to consider for hot or humid climates. The shoulder straps are very easy to adjust to get the best fit and the water-repellent PU-coated polyester fabric is long-lasting so the backpack can easily be reused year after year. 

The Details: 30 liters | 1.3 pounds | 18.1 x 11.8 x 10.6 inches | 15-inch laptop sleeve

Other Kids Backpacks We Tested

There were several backpacks we tested and liked, but didn’t quite make our final list due to a few downsides like slight discomfort, thin materials, and a lack of pockets for organization.

Pottery Barn Kids Glow-in-the-Dark Backpacks : We love the bright patterns and ability to customize the backpack with a monogram, but the fabric feels a little flimsy and less durable than other backpacks we tried.

Simple Modern Disney Kids Backpack : This backpack is comfortable to wear, comes in tons of designs and colors, and spot cleans easily, but we felt that there were other backpacks with more standout features for traveling.

Athleta Girl Limitless Backpack : There are plenty of pockets, padded straps, and a solid capacity, but it wasn’t the most comfortable backpack we tested.

Adidas Prime Backpack : This sporty backpack is made with a durable recycled polyester material that can be spot-cleaned to get rid of dirt or grass marks easily. The capacity is impressive but excessive and there was almost too much room left over, even after the bag was packed with school supplies and sports gear.

lululemon City Adventurer Pack : If you’re looking for a stylish backpack for your teens or tweens, this lululemon bag is a great option but it comes at a higher price point for a fairly simple bag. 

Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack : The no-frills backpack has an intuitive design for packing up all of your essentials in an organized manner thanks to the variety of helpful pockets. The backpack is a little large and bulky so it might be too big for smaller kids.

When it comes to testing travel products for kids, we turn to our expert product-testing parents and their children to help us find the best picks on the market for upcoming trips. For this test, the parents provided us with detailed observations and insights about each backpack after their children (ages 3 to 18 years old) used the bags for school, travel, and extracurricular activities.

Paying close attention to capacity, design, durability, and comfort, we rated 38 backpacks on a scale of one to five in each category. We packed the bags full of everyday essentials like snacks, extra clothing, water bottles, and books, and then the kids used the bag for school or other activities. In the end, the best backpacks we tried had plenty of room without feeling bulky, plus padding and adjustable straps for comfort. We loved the backpacks with a variety of pockets for staying organized while traveling and found the most durable backpacks were easy to spot clean after getting dirty and looked good as new even with prolonged use.

Tips for Buying a Kids Backpack

Look at backpack size and weight.

When it comes to purchasing a comfortable backpack for your youngster, it's helpful to look at the capacity, weight, and materials of the bag to get a better idea of the size. Usually, there will be product specifications that also list the intended age range for the backpack, so you can factor in the most important features of the backpack to select the best one for your child.

Consider wheels versus straps

Traveling with a backpack with just shoulder straps is the most common route to go, but backpacks with wheels can be ideal when the bag gets too heavy to be carried comfortably. However, it can be slightly difficult to maneuver a rolled backpack so you may want to look for a wheeled backpack that also has straps for extra versatility.

Factor in the intended use

Whether you’re looking for a backpack for school, travel, or both, you’ll want to consider the main use of the backpack to choose the best one for your child. For example, a larger backpack might be better for school, because it can accommodate a tablet and a lunch box , for example, but it could be cumbersome to carry around for long trips. Opting for a lightweight backpack with less space or pockets might be better for a little one carrying a bag through an airport.

In general, anyone with a ticket for a flight will be able to have a personal item like a small backpack. Packing travel necessities in your child’s backpack is a great way to utilize the amount of bags you’re allowed to bring onto the plane. However, you’ll want to double-check any airline restrictions if you’ve booked a fare with no allotted carry-on bags .

We always recommend looking at the manufacturer’s guidelines for washing a backpack, but if directions are unavailable, you should be able to spot clean the fabric with soapy water and a towel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a Commerce Writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best kids backpacks for travel based on a series of tests completed by parents and their children (ages 3 to 18) in a real-world setting.

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The 11 Best Travel Backpacks for Kids in 2023 [Toddlers to Teens]

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Size and Capacity

Carry options, waterproof vs. water-resistant, material and durability, color and design, 1. for kids who like to coordinate, 2. robot friend with plenty of storage space, 3. little backpack that your preschooler will adore, 4. for disney-loving toddlers, 5. little bag for your littlest explorer, 1. everyday travel backpack for kids, 2. perfect for vacation and school, 3. offers practicality and space by the bucket load, 1. for tech-loving older children, 2. excellent backpack on wheels, 3. packable backpack for all kinds of adventures, final thoughts.

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

Let your young adventurer enjoy their own independence on the road with their very own child-size backpack. Made from strong and durable materials, these travel bags may be smaller in size, but they offer all the convenience and practicality of your favorite full-size adult version.

Packed full of useful pockets and compartments, your child will love having their very own backpack for school, sleepovers, and trips away.

Things To Consider With Travel Backpacks for Kids

There are lots of great travel backpacks for kids out there, but consider some of these factors before you buy:

Depending on the age of your child, the size of the backpack they need will vary. In order to be comfortable and prevent pressure on the shoulders, any backpack should be proportionate to the size of the child.

The height should extend from around 2 inches below the shoulder blades , and the bottom of the backpack should sit nicely just above the waist. It goes without saying that the smaller the child, the more compact the backpack should be, and under no circumstances should a toddler be hauling around an adult-size backpack on their travels.

The capacity will also vary, with younger children not being expected to carry as much stuff as older children. Whatever the age and size of your child, it is important to remember that the backpack you choose will need to be fit for purpose.

For older children, look for backpacks that can comfortably carry folders with additional space for textbooks, notepads, and even extra clothing. For younger children, smaller compartments for drinks and snacks are a must!

Little people won’t want to be weighed down with heavy backpacks. If you want to avoid your preschooler tipping backward with a super-heavy hiking pack, look for the lightest backpacks you can buy.

Lightweight doesn’t need to mean flimsy, though, and modern-day backpacks are made from durable materials with feature-reinforced seams to ensure that they can withstand regular use without falling apart.

Most backpacks designed for use at school or travel tend to weigh around 6 to 12 pounds when empty , and even less for those designed for children under 4. While doctors and physical therapists recommend that kids carry no more than 10% to 15% of their body weight on their backs, heavy bags can sometimes not be avoided.

Bottom Line: As a general rule, look for the most durable but lightweight backpack you can find to ensure that your child doesn’t suffer back or shoulder pain.

Kids love backpacks, and parents love them, too. One of the biggest benefits of using a backpack is the ability to wear it over the shoulders to help distribute the weight evenly across the body. Backpacks also allow for hands-free travel, making it easy for your child to hold your hand, ride their bike, or generally just enjoy a higher level of dexterity as they go about their day.

Shoulder straps should be adjustable and padded to ensure that they fit well and don’t dig in , and while a backpack wouldn’t be a backpack without them, there are other carry options available, too.

You might notice that your kid’s backpack comes with a grab handle on the top. While probably not suitable for 1-handed carrying over longer periods, these are useful for grabbing the pack from the trunk of your car and can be used to hang it on a peg or in a locker.

For larger backpacks that might be used for sporting events, sleepovers, or on vacation, you could consider one that offers the addition of smooth-rolling wheels and a retractable handle. Easy to maneuver, these may not be what your child wants to pull along the school hallways, but they are a practical alternative for oversize bags and heavier loads when traveling.

Lots of kid’s backpacks describe themselves as being waterproof and weatherproof, but exactly how much protection do they really offer?

The answer is pretty simple — waterproof bags can withstand being fully submerged in the water without getting the contents wet, while water-resistant bags are usually coated to allow light rain, drizzle, and moisture to run off of the bag and away from your belongings.

That said, “water-resistant” can be a fairly broad term, with some makes and models offering far higher levels of protection than others. The zippers on the backpack also play an important part in keeping your gear nice and dry. Zippers are full of holes that can easily allow the driving rain to seep in by their very nature.

Hot Tip: Look for backpacks that come with coated or covered zippers to improve the amount of protection they offer against rain.

Your child’s backpack should be able to withstand the rigors of daily use. Being thrown around by older children is par for the course, and younger children probably won’t treat it with too much care, either.

Durable materials such as polyester or nylon will help extend the bag’s life span , and reinforced seams can cope better with heavy loads. Over time, rips, tears, and broken zippers can make any backpack unusable, so for regular use or frequent travel, opt for a backpack that is more about function than fashion.

Easy-to-clean materials are also a must. While some can be wiped down with a damp cloth, others can simply be chucked in the washing machine to remove any evidence of unwanted stains or spillages.

Your child’s backpack needs to be comfortable to carry even when full. A good backpack sits comfortably against the curve of the back and hangs nicely from the shoulders, but other factors will enhance the comfort levels significantly.

The straps should be easy to adjust to ensure that they can be made to fit. They should also be padded to prevent them from digging into the shoulders as your child walks. Larger backpacks often come with additional chest straps that help distribute the weight more evenly and are also useful if your child is planning to undertake outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or running.

Some backpacks come with mesh material on the straps and the back panel . The nature of the fabric helps to hold the backpack away from your shoulders and back to allow air to pass through to keep that cool feeling.

Hot Tip: If your child’s backpack seems to be causing them discomfort, it could simply be that it is too full, badly loaded, or just not the right size or fit for them.

Children of different ages will be naturally drawn to different colors and designs. Younger children love carrying their favorite cartoon character or toy on their back, and with so many to choose from, they shouldn’t be disappointed. On the other hand, older children often prefer more fashionable designs that help them stand out from the crowd.

Plain-colored backpacks are practical and easy to keep clean , and some children may find that their school insists on a certain color as part of their uniform.

On the other hand, character backpacks or those that are designed to look like your little one’s favorite animal or toy will be much more visually attractive to younger children, and they will love to show off their new best bag friend to everyone they meet.

Whatever color or design your child goes for, remember that it needs to be practical enough to withstand the dirt and dust of regular usage.

The 5 Best Travel Backpacks for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Wildkin 15 inch kids backpack.

Available in a wide choice of colorful designs, this brilliant backpack will ensure that your child stands out from the crowd on the playground. Made from super-durable 600D polyester fabric, this backpack measures a roomy 15 x 11 x 7 inches and offers plenty of space for school books, snacks, and toys.

The large main compartment is easily accessed using the strong and durable kid-friendly zipper , and with 2 further storage compartments and an interior utility pocket, your school-age child will easily be able to carry all of their favorite belongings with them. The moisture-resistant interior is easy to keep clean and resistant to leaks and spills, and the external fabric can be spot cleaned between uses.

With a built-in top handle, this backpack can quickly and easily be hung up on pegs and in lockers, and the padded, adjustable shoulder straps ensure a super-comfortable carry, even when it is full. With a wide choice of patterns and designs available, this backpack is perfect for younger children, and if you want to keep them coordinated, matching lunch packs, bottles, and other accessories are available.

What We Like

• The spacious main compartment and organizer

What We Don’t Like

• Backpack will not stand up on its own unless it’s pretty full

CHERUBIC Kids Robot Backpack

Perfect for trips to the park, days spent at kindergarten, sleepovers, vacations, and so much more, this super cute little toddler backpack has been designed to look just like your child’s favorite robot toy.

Measuring a compact yet practical 13.7 x 9.8 x 4.7 inches, this whimsical robot character bag will ensure that your little one loves carrying their belongings all on their own.

Made from tough and durable oxford polyester material , this cute little backpack is easy to keep clean, and the spacious design offers plenty of room for all of their most important belongings.

With 2 zipper pockets on the outside, they can enjoy easy access to snacks, coloring pencils, and toys, and available in a choice of different styles, all models offer a spacious main compartment that comes with easy-to-use zipper pulls that are just right for tiny hands.

Perfect for younger children, this backpack comes with padded adjustable straps that can be made to perfectly fit your child’s size, and the brightly colored robot design is suitable for both girls and boys.

• The unusual character design
• This backpack is not large enough to fit big books or folders

Orezi Vintage Dinosaur Backpack

Measuring 10 x 4 x 12 inches, this brilliant little backpack comes with a super cute dinosaur design, with further designs and patterns to choose from across the range. Made from durable, water-resistant materials, it is lightweight and incredibly easy to clean, making light work of cleaning up leaks and spills in the washing machine.

With a spacious main compartment, your little one can carry all of their favorite snacks, books, and toys, and it is just the right size for folders. With 2 handy side pockets, your child can enjoy super-quick access to their drink bottle and other small items , and the child-friendly zippers make it easy to open and close.

The adjustable padded shoulder straps help to stabilize the load for your little one, even when full, and the lightweight yet spacious design is perfect for use at preschool, kindergarten, or even elementary school, as well as on the road.

• The colorful patterns and designs
• A little bit on the small side

Voikukka Girls Mini Mouse Backpack

Super cute and incredibly trendy, this cartoon character backpack features a beautiful Minnie Mouse color block design. With adorable backpack ears and a big bow-tie on the front, this backpack will ensure that your little one stands out from the crowd.

Made from soft and durable waterproof PU leather material , this bag is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use, and the polyester lining is easy to keep clean in between uses.

Measuring a compact but practical 10 x 8 x 4 inches, it features 1 larger main compartment for keeping everyday essentials, including your child’s iPad, neatly organized, as well as 2 side pockets for keeping water bottles and snacks close at hand.

Perfect for days trips, playdates, and of course, your next trip to Disney, this gorgeous little backpack comes with adjustable straps that ensure a comfortable carry, even when full, and the top grab handle is convenient for picking it up and sitting it back down.

• The cute character design with built-in mouse ears
• The straps are quite short

Skip Hop Toddler Dog Backpack

This brilliant toddler-size backpack is the perfect choice for kids who like to do more. Made from highly durable and easy-to-clean fabrics, it is just the right size for toddlers to wear to daycare, playdates, and even trips away from home. The super cute doggy design will quickly become your little one’s new best friend, and the child-friendly design makes it easy for them to carry.

The main compartment is large enough to carry toys, pencils, books, and other much-loved items, and the front zipper pouch is just right for keeping snacks close at hand throughout the day. With a mesh side pocket that has been designed to comfortably house a juice box, sippy cup, or water bottle, your toddler can enjoy their newfound independence.

With padded shoulder straps that are easy to adjust, you can find the perfect fit for your child, and with an easy-to-clean lining, you can quickly wipe away leaks and spillages .

The addition of a useful write-on tag on the inside means this backpack will always be returned to its rightful little owner, and the compact 11 x 5 x 12 inch dimensions are just right for children between 2 and 4 years of age.

• The dog design is a big hit with kids
• It is very cute, but also quite small

The 3 Best Travel Backpacks for 5- to 12-Year-Olds

Binheiyi unisex fashion backpack.

With its unique good looks and spacious interior, this space-age backpack is made from high-quality, waterproof material, making it perfect for use all year round. Available in a choice of bold colors, it measures an impressive 17 x 14 x 6.3 inches and is a great choice for school, playdates, sleepovers, and vacations.

The large main compartment can comfortably house school books, a change of clothes, pens, notebooks, and even a laptop , and the external zipper pocket offers easy access to your child’s most-used items. Smaller in stature to most adult-sized backpacks, this is a lightweight and practical alternative for kids who like to carry their own gear on vacation .

The reinforced adjustable shoulder straps have been designed to feel extremely comfortable on the shoulder, even for longer periods, and are easy to adjust so that you can ensure that it sits nicely against the back. For added comfort and convenience, this brilliant backpack also comes with a breathable back panel that has been designed to avoid a build-up of sweat.

• High-quality and lightweight design
• The main compartment has no padding or additional compartments

Nike Kids Elemental Graphic Backpack

Offering supercool good looks and the iconic Nike Swoosh logo, this simple but highly practical sports backpack is a great choice for practice, overnight stays, and longer trips away. Made from super-tough and durable polyester material, it has reinforced seams for extra durability, and the classic design ensures that it will never look out of place on even the most fashion-conscious young travelers.

Available in a choice of 4 different colors, this backpack can comfortably hold books, folders, and other essentials, and with a detachable pencil case included, it is as practical for use in the classroom and on the school field as it is on the airplane.

The main zippered compartment is spacious and easy to access, and the further front pocket and mesh side pocket make it a breeze to grab a drink bottle or reach in for their most-used items. With a sturdy design and high-quality construction , this backpack promises to remain strong no matter how full you pack it.

For increased comfort, this model comes with padded and adjustable shoulder pads designed to provide a snug and comfortable fit, and with a grab handle on the top, your child can haul their gear easily from one place to another.

• The attractive and sporty design
• This backpack would benefit from some additional pockets or interior dividers

Everest Junior Backpack

Perfect for older children, this school bag offers plenty of space for all of their essentials. Weighing in at just 8 ounces, it is incredibly lightweight and comfortable to carry, even when full, and the durable and water-resistant 600D polyester materials ensure that it remains tough and durable in all weather conditions.

With a large main compartment, your child will easily be able to fit their school books, pens, and other items in with ease, and the slimline design ensures that it offers practical storage space without feeling bulky or heavy .

Available in a wide choice of colors, it features an easy-access front pocket with a hidden zipper closure for extra security, and the large main opening makes it easy to access their belongings in an instant.

The adjustable and padded shoulder straps can be altered to perfectly fit the size and height of your child, and with an additional grab handle, this is a great choice for use at school, at the park, at sleepovers, or even on long trips away.

• The simple and straightforward design
• The straps are a little short for older children and adults

Hot Tip: If you’re looking to maximize your carry-on allowance and want to pair your child’s backpack with a kid-friendly rolling bag, check out our guide to the best carry-on luggage for kids .

The 3 Best Travel Backpacks for Teenagers

Lmeison anime cartoon luminous backpack.

This brilliant backpack comes with a USB charging port to keep your preteen well-connected. Made from waterproof materials, this stylish backpack comes with awesome light-absorbing properties, and the glow in the dark design offers up to 6 hours of fluorescent glow after just 20 minutes of exposure to the daylight.

With a padded laptop compartment that is large enough to house devices measuring up to 15.6 inches , front and back zipper pockets, and further side mesh pockets, it has plenty of space for a wide range of belongings.

The anti-theft design makes this an excellent choice for both the daily commute and travel, and with a theft-proof combination lock and a dual-access zipper, your teen’s gear will stay nice and safe. For even more convenience, this backpack comes with a USB cable included, meaning that your child only needs to supply their own choice of power pack .

With breathable and adjustable shoulder straps, this backpack is comfortable to carry. The S-shaped design will help relieve shoulder pressure, making it suitable for carrying all day long.

• The glow-in-the-dark design
• You need to buy a charging bank separately

Hot Tip: If your teen is tasked with traveling with their laptop, consider our guide to the best laptop backpacks to buy for travel .

Tilami Rolling Backpack

This awesome backpack can be carried on the shoulder or pulled along on smooth-rolling wheels, making it an excellent choice for school trips, vacations, and sleepovers. Strong enough to hold up to 30 pounds worth of belongings, this brilliant backpack has been designed with a high-strength alloy rod support and an armored bottom protection system for increased durability.

Offering plenty of well-thought-out storage spaces, this backpack on wheels has a multi-compartment design with plenty of room for clothes, books, files, and so much more. The additional front and side storage pockets allow for easy access to your child’s most needed items.

Available in a choice of 4 beautiful bright designs, this backpack has a waterproof coating to keep your teen’s belongings safe and dry in all weather.

Your child can choose to extend the handle and pull the backpack along behind them or use the S-shaped mesh panel shoulder straps that come with a discreet storage pocket and a breathable design. With smooth-rolling wheels, this case offers quiet operation, and when it’s time to stand still, it can support its own weight using durable feet.

• The multi-function design
• This backpack can feel heavy on the shoulders when full

VIDOSCLA  Teens Elementary School Backpack

Made from high-density, water-resistant nylon, this awesome backpack is suitable for any adventure and comes in a wide range of colors. Designed to be incredibly durable, the material is resistant to stains and scratches, and with up to 32 liters of storage space, it is a brilliant option for kids who want to stay active on vacation.

With plenty of compartments to choose from, this backpack has a large main compartment with superstrong, dual metal zippers, as well as 2 zipped front pockets and 2 further side pockets. Perfect for packing away on school trips and family vacations,  it’s lightweight and flattens down when not in use, making it an excellent choice for sporting events and other adventures .

The 2 thick shoulder straps come with sponge padding to ensure increased comfort while being carried, and the length of the shoulder straps can be adjusted to suit your child’s size.

A true space-saver, this awesome little hiking backpack can easily hold a spare sweater, water bottles, guide books, snacks, cell phones, and even an umbrella to ensure that your child has everything they need close at hand.

• It holds a lot
• It need airing on arrival due to a strong smell

Letting your kids carry their own items while traveling helps increase their independence while freeing up some of their own time. Accessing their books, toys, electronic media, drinks, and snacks will help them feel more involved, and your little ones will love having their favorite character traveling with them.

Suitable for use while away from home, as well as back at school or kindergarten, these are an awesome collection of kids’ backpacks that parents will love just as much as they do.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a toddler backpack.

A toddler backpack should be in the range of 10 to 15 inches. Size isn’t the only factor, though, and it should have a padded back panel and shoulder straps.

Can a 2-year-old wear a backpack?

Generally, a 2-year-old can wear a backpack safely. If they can comfortably walk carrying a toy while holding their balance, they are old enough to wear a backpack.

What weight can kids carry?

A backpack that is too heavy for a child is a safety concern for many adults. Ideally, your kid’s backpack should not weigh more than 10% to 15% of their body weight.

Where should a backpack sit on your back?

A backpack should sit roughly 2 inches below your shoulders and 2 inches above your hips.

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About Amar Hussain

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

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Product Reviews

Best kids travel backpacks from toddlers to tweens in 2024.

How to pick the best backpack for kids suitable for travel and family vacations

The first place we start with our kids packing is with their travel backpack but oh, so many options! What’s the best sort of bag for family travel?

In this travel gear guide, we’ll take you through the different types of bags and when they might be best for your child’s age and stage. We’ll then hone in on why backpacks are our favourite choice for the type of international travel we most commonly undertake – but will they be right for you and your kids?

This post is part of our best travel products series – find everything you’ll need for travelling with your family

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No time to read? Top Kids Travel Backpacks for 2024:

• Best toddler travel backpack: Munchkin Brica by-My-Side Safety Harness Backpack
• Best little kids travel backpack: Deuter Kikki Kid’s Backpack
• Best big kids travel backpack: Mountaintop Kids Backpack
• Best tween travel backpack: High Sierra Loop Backpack

Little Kids

Best Kids Travel Backpack

What sort of travel bags are there for kids, what to look for in a good kids travel backpack, best travel backpack for toddlers (under 4’s), best travel backpack for little kids (4 to 6-year-olds), best travel backpack for grade schoolers (6 to 9-year-olds), best travel backpack for tweens (9 to 12-year-olds).

• More Kids’ Travel Products

We have chosen different products for every age and stage, from toddlers to teens; you can see the summary here but read on for the details of why we love each of them and the practical pros and cons to consider:

$ – under $20 USD ; $$ – $20 to $50 USD; $$$ – over $50 USD

There are so many options when it comes to what sort of luggage your child should travel with and this is highly dependent on their age and abilities, as well as the type of journey you’ll be taking.

Your child may have just one bag that needs to fit everything they need for their whole journey in an airplane carry-on size. Alternatively, you may put all their clothing and toiletries in with a family suitcase (we recommend giving each child their own packing cube if you’re doing this). Then and all your child needs are their own toys and snacks that come with them in the car or on a plane, train or whatever mode of transport you’re using!

Check out our complete guide on what toys we are packing in our kid’s travel bags over here – detailed guides for every age group baby to tween.

The main types of luggage for children are:

Kids Travel backpacks

Kids’ travel backpacks are lightweight and made from highly durable materials. Worn with two straps over the shoulders, these vary hugely in size and capacity from toddlers to teenagers.

Small children may have a novelty backpack attached to a harness or reins, just big enough for a few small toys and essentials, through to much larger backpacks intended for hikes, school camps, and everything in between – we’ll look at these features in much more detail below.

Rolling Luggage

Cute little rolling suitcases for kids certainly have a time and a place. If you are taking a very straightforward resort-style vacation or will be road-tripping where the bag will sit in the trunk of the car rather than at your child’s feet, then a rolling suitcase could well work for you. Even within rolling luggage, there are several sub-categories:

• A rolling suitcase – either hard-sided or made from tough nylon, a smaller version of an adult suitcase on either two wheels or four 36- degree spinning wheels for maximum maneuverability.
• Ride-on suitcases – these are suitcases that run on 4 wheels that your child can either sit on or be pulled along with. We have a complete review of this type of kids luggage over here .
• Scooter Suitcases – combining a small hard-shelled suitcase with a scooter for ease of mobility – we cover kids scooter suitcases in much more detail here .
• Rolling Backpacks – a hybrid between a suitcase and a backpack. Whilst they can be carried over the shoulder, they allow kids the option to pull their suitcase along too. If they are bringing this as their only bag, it may be a better option for small kids, though note they really are NOT then practical to use as a day bag for hikes or taking along to dinner out in a restaurant – the frame and wheels will add substantially to the overall weight of the bag.

Wheeled Suitcase

Ride-on Suitcase

Scooter Suitcase

Rolling Backpack

Which Type of Kids Luggage is Best?

There may not be just one style of kids travel bag that will suit your needs for a whole journey; you will have to pick out the type of bag that will suit your needs for MOST of the time.

And remember, invariable at some point in your journey – especially if you have children under the age of about 8 – you will end up needing to pull or carry this bag yourself at some point!!

Because our international travels have always involved a combination of long haul flights, rental cars and hopping on and off different forms of transport frequently, we have always found it best to equip all of us with a backpack each, then limit ourselves to one or two larger family suitcases.

(NB now our kids are all reaching tween/teen years, we’ve reverted to a small backpack and small suitcase each for most types of travel!)

So assuming you’ve decided a kids travel backpack is the way to go, what great features should you look out for?

Size & Weight

Essential for a child’s product, if the expectation is they are the ones carrying it, it’s got to fit their body. As mentioned above, any bag with wheels has a hard frame inside too which will add to the weight for children. The more zips, gadgetry and unnecessary novelty features a bag has can also add to the weight of the bag before it has anything in it.

If you want to take the bag with you in the car or to keep it under the seat in front of you on a plane, make sure it will squish down small enough – and if you have a chronic over-packer, make sure the bag won’t be too wide to fit your airline’s cabin baggage policies once filled.

Think about what items are expected to fit in the bag too. Electronics and headphones, although not too heavy, add a lot of bulk; you’ll want to measure up these items before purchasing a kids travel backpack.

An essential for a kids travel backpack is that it must be comfortable to wear. Once you have the sizing sorted, ensure the backpack has padded and adjustable straps. The better the fit the less likely they are to complain about wearing it. An added bonus for larger backpacks is chest and waist straps to help evenly distribute the weight.

It also helps if a bag has extra carry handles in addition to the straps, making it easier to pick up without pulling on the straps.

Compartments

Not a deal-breaker for any kids backpack unless you’re serious hikers, but having separate pockets certainly can help kids keep organised. At the very least, a separate pocket for their water bottle and, if possible, a front zipper pocket for their valuable little items.

Material & Durability

Goes without saying you want the bag to last your journey; always pick quality over novelty. Check the quality of the seams and stitching, how robust are the zips? Woven materials are almost always going to be better than anything that’s made with plastic and glued together.

Although not essential for all types of travel, if you are travelling anywhere with inclement weather (looking at you, European winter !) look for water-resistant materials. They won’t be fully waterproof but will give your gear that extra shelter if you get caught out in the rain. And another consideration, if you will be travelling through hot destinations, is back ventilation.

We also look for materials that can either be machine-washed or easy wipe clean – for obvious reasons!

Can’t I just use their school bag?

While a school backpack might double as a travel backpack, chances are they are serving different purposes. School backpacks tend to be quite large to fit book bags, lunch boxes, gym kit; you name it! But tend to be built for style and space over practicality.

Besides, have you seen how grubby they get by the end of term?! We like to keep a special bag set aside just for travel, but we do tend to travel at every single term break. If you’re only taking one vacation in a year, then yes, a decent quality school backpack with excellent shoulder straps that isn’t overfilled could double as your next travel backpack.

Now let’s dig into our top picks for best backpacks at every age group!

When your toddler wants to start independently taking their own little luggage with them , please proceed with caution ! We see so many new parents run straight to adorable little suitcases – which are just that; adorable, but utterly impractical for serious travellers.

For MOST types of travel (we’re talking flying, jumping on public transport, hiring cars), we have found by far, the best type of toddler luggage is a small backpack with a detachable leash.

Winner best toddler travel backpack: Munchkin Brica by-My-Side Safety Harness Backpack

This is the best toddler backpack for parents looking for a backpack that is super practical rather than just cute. The harness on the backpack is fully adjustable and the backpack itself is spacious enough to fit a few snacks, a sippy and some essentials.

Runner up travel backpack for toddlers: Skip Hop Toddler Leash and Harness backpack

The Skip Hop brand comes through for us once again with their fabulous range of toddler backpacks. If it’s a variety of cute animal designs you are after, then Skip Hop delivers.

With a detachable leash included, it’s not the most robust of the toddler rein products but certainly does the job when you need and will grow with your child, leaving them with a quite roomy backpack.

We love that Skip Hop comes in such a cute and colourful range of products, so you can complement them with bottles, lunch boxes and neck pillows in their favourite designs.

Also consider for toddlers:

• Naturally Kids Dinosaur backpack – super cute but roomy bag with a detachable dino cuddly toy.
• DB Dinosaur Toddler mini backpack – a lovely small pack with a rein option, comfy shoulder strap and breathable material on their back so great when your toddler needs to wear for a longer period of time.

You can find our complete guide to toddler backpacks and reins over here

Preschoolers are ready to start carrying a bag with a little more size and weight – but you still need to go in with the expectation you may end up carrying it when they tire. Go for brands that are size appropriate to their body and allow a little more toy space.

We like a bag that contains a side pocket and has an internal divider pocket. You ideally want to look for around 12″ to 15″, but this well depends on your child size too. Our recommendation is to make it larger enough to fit a tablet and headphones. Any bag with a divider that keeps the tablet protected against scratches other toys is a great idea

Winner best travel backpack for little kids: Deuter Kikki Kids Backpack

The Deuter Kikki manages to combine cute and practical in this neat little package. Durable material but also lightweight, the Deuter Kikki has a breathable mesh back and chest strap for wearing comfort. It comes in several different color combinations to match your child’s tastes.

Runner-up travel backpack for little kids: Vaschy Little Kids Backpacks

A great one for spacious storage without being too large for their little bodies, the Vaschy Backpacks range offers bags with not only an internal zipper pocket but also an internal tablet pocket too, accommodating up to A4 size.

They come with elasticated side pockets for water bottles and an additional chest strap for comfortable wearing.

We love the extra-long zip pullers to help little fingers and the easy-clean lining; they are made of water-resistant material. Not just for girls, there are plenty of colors and designs in the Vaschy Little Kids range.

Also consider for Little Kids:

• Bseash Outdoor Daypack – perfect for kids under 4ft, two compartments and water bottle pocket, ideal for adventurous outdoor families travelling with smaller children who can still carry their own load.
• Osprey Daylite – best for adventurous outdoor kids – the smallest in the Osprey range, including a detachable hydration pack

What goes in your backpacks? You’ll want our guide to the best travel toys for 5 year olds+

Oh, how we love to travel with this age group! Communication is spot on (mostly!), and choices are sensible (mostly), so you can give a little larger bag and much more free reign over what they’re packing.

With a guided packing list, they should be able to put together their own little vacation bag – subject to a lot of censorship – and for the most part, will carry this throughout their whole trip.

Your young grade-schooler still loves favourite characters, animals, and novelty, so play to this as much as you can in picking a design that you know they’ll love and want to carry.

Winner best travel backpack for grade schoolers: Mountaintop Kids Backpack

Available in a huge variety of colours, this is a super comfortable backpack for kids on any type of adventure. Made from durable and water-resistant material, the buckles are of high quality and adjustable straps plus a chest clasp means you can make a snug and comfortable fit for all-day wearing.

With plenty of storage space but not oversized at under 15″ tall it’s the perfect fit for a grade-schooler.

Runner-up travel backpack for grade-schoolers: Jack Wolfskin Kids Little Trt

We love this compact kids backpack for any sort of travel, though it excels as an outdoor daypack. It has deep side pockets for drinks and an external zipper pocket, as well as an internal tablet sleeve and a padded back. Adjustable shoulder and sternum straps ensure a snug fit.

One of the smallest of the high-quality Jack Wolfskin range certainly worthy of the price tag for a durable and reliable product that will last your big kids through many adventures.

Also consider:

• The North Face Youth Recon – a great dependable brand in a soft but durable design perfect for long trips, though on the pricier end for a kids backpack, it’s packed full of useful features.
• Deuter Junior Kids – another quality choice big on space but lightweight and comfortable to carry.

We love that tweens can really start to take on some independence. Not only packing their own bags (with a little parental assistance, of course) but carrying them throughout the journey too; we have a strict you pack it, you carry it rule for our tweens!

As they grow, they need to fit a laptop should also be considered in your tween travel backpack buying checklist – though not essential if this is a travel backpack only, separate from their school bag.

Best travel backpack for tweens: High Sierra Loop Backpack

If it’s pockets and storage you’re looking for with wide, comfortable carrying straps, then this tween backpack covers just about every base.

The ideal size for carry-on only when your tween will be responsible for all their own gear, the High Sierra comes in a huge range of patterns and colors and features fabulous zip pullers for durability along with a separate tech pocket and tech spot for charger cords and headphones .

Runner up travel backpack for tweens: Herschel Kids Little America Laptop Backpack

We love the quality of Herschels backpacks, we’ve had several over the years, and the stitching and durability have proven second to none. For a growing tween (they come in a huge range of colors, not just black!), they offer plenty of storage space and handy compartments.

The padded shoulder straps and mesh back make it comfortable for longer spells of carrying, with an external front zipper pocket as well as an internal tech pocket and tablet/laptop sleeve.

They come in both 17L and 25L models, depending on your child’s body size and packing needs.

• Abshoo Classical Basic Travel Backpack – A sturdy, roomy, and fashionable tween girls choice (going to confess, I was so jealous of my tween girls’ bag I got one myself!)
• Osprey Ace 38 – An ideal starter backpack for tweens looking to get a series for outdoor adventures, perfect for school camps & scout trips, but still small enough that they can take it as a carry-on

You may also be interested in our pick of the best backpacks for Disney – here we look in detail at practical considerations of what to carry for a Disney parks day and whether you should carry one family day pack with all your theme park essentials, or take something super small and lightweight for you all (this option is handy if you want tweens/teens to take their own phone and water bottle, for example)

Older kids? We have moved all of our teen product recommendations over to this complete guide to Teen Suitcases and Luggage Sets

Looking For More Kids’ Travel Products?

We have an absolutely bumper collection of travel product reviews to help you choose the best gear for your travel needs + a bunch of handy tips to help you get underway. You may want to check out next:

• The coolest new family travel gear – gadgets and equipment travelling families will love (and they make ideal gifts too!)
• Kids camping essentials – perfect gift ideas for your outdoorsy kids.
• Family Beach Essentials – plan the perfect day at the beach with this bumper packing list for the beach.
• Hiking Essentials for Families – the most important things for families to pack when hitting the trails.
• 45 Essentials for a Road Trip – everything you need to think about before hitting the road with your family.
• Our thoughts on when you can stop packing a stroller for travel with some stroller alternatives for your bigger tots and preschoolers .

Want all these handy ideas and checklists in one place? Sign up for the Globetrotters Community and get all of these in one spot!

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15 Best Travel Backpacks for Kids, Tweens And Toddlers (2024)

Packed for Life contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Disclosure policy for more info.

When traveling, every little thing that can make your trip easier helps. If you’re traveling with kids, setting them up with the best travel backpack can (literally) take a load off of you. Not only can it help you pack easier, your kid(s) will also be able to bring along their accessories, snacks and toys, without taking up too much space. Plus you may even get your bag back all to yourself (or at least most of it). 

But, how do you know which kids travel pack to get?

To help make this process easier for you, I have put together 15 of the best travel backpacks for kids, tweens and toddlers into our favourites list.

We’ve broken our choices down into the best kids travel backpacks for older kids 4 and up and the best toddler backpacks, perfect for travel.

Disclosure: Please note that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you . Thank you!  See full disclosure and disclaimer policy  here 

Table of Contents

Why A Kids Travel Backpack?

With so many choices for travel luggage out there, you may be wondering if my kid really needs something extra to lug around and if so why a pack?

Although your child may not need a kids backpack while traveling, it can definitely come in handy, especially if you plan on doing a bit of hiking. We consider backpacks to be travel essentials in our household.

If you set your young adventurer up with a sturdy travel bag, they will be able to carry what they want and need themselves. That means that you can use your own bags to carry what you want, rather than having your bag overflowing with everyone elses gear.

Not only does putting a backpack on your little one significantly help you out, it can also teach them self-sufficiency . By helping them decide what to (and what not to) pack, they’ll begin understanding needs versus wants. 

Also, since they will be in charge of carrying and keeping up with it throughout your adventures, they can learn the importance of their belongings, as well as responsibility.

While this may be more of a childhood long goal rather than an instant fix, it can help starting them off early. We’ve been doing this with our daughter since she was 18 months old, and she loves picking out what should go in there. True there are times we have to say, no you can’t bring all your lego, stuffies, and 25 snacks.

What type of Travel Bags Should I Choose?

Depending on the age and capabilities of your children, and where you are traveling to, there are many types of children’s backpacks and luggage to choose from.

• Consider whether you are travelling carry-on only, and need enough room for all their clothes and travel gear. Or if their bag is to be used as a daypack for travel activities, toys, and snacks only.
• Will you be hiking, or spending long days walking around? A well fitting small backpack might better suit your itinerary.
• Younger children may need a backpack for toddlers that has a harness, if you worry they are prone to run off. Or perhaps rolling ride on luggage may better suit your travel style.

Whichever travel pack you choose for your children, getting them involved in before you buy, can help decrease resistance to wearing one.

Here are a few different types of kids travel bags:

Kids Travel Packs

Kids travel backpacks are durable, versatile, and lightweight, leaving your child’s hands free as the straps fit over their shoulders. They can be used as a kids hiking backpack, as a daybag or overnight bag and even as a school bag. This gives you more for your money.

Rolling Travel Luggage

Rolling luggage is great for resort vacations, road trips, or straightforward trips, where you don’t need the flexibility of hands free luggage. There are a few types of rolling luggage to choose from:

• Ride-on Suitcase – Perfect for young kids, these are a small rolling suitcase with 2 or 4 wheels designed for young children to sit on.
• Suitcase with wheels – Think a small version of adult suitcases, with 2 or 4 wheels.
• Rolling Backpack – This type is a hybrid between a backpack and suitcase, and may be easier for kids to pull along, than carry. Usually you can also carry them on your back. Not really suitable to use as a hiking or daypack.

We’ve found over the years that not all types of travel bags work well for all parts of our journies. Between long haul flights, local transportation (bus, car, taxis) and different types of daily activities there isn’t a one size fits all bag.

Try to choose travel bag that will work the best for the majority of your trip. Plus keep extra space in your pack for the inevitable extra treasure or two, water bottle or snacks. Read on for our list of the best kids travel bag for different types of travel.

Check out our tips of what to look for when buying a good travel backpack for kids at the end of this post.

Best Kids Travel Backpacks

** Top picks for age group

9 of the Best Kids Travel Backpacks (for Kids 4+)

Deuter junior kid’s backpack – top pick, top pick in “best travel backpack for kids”.

If you don’t have time to read the rest of the reviews, look no further. Coming in as my top pick is the Junior Kids Backpack by Deuter.  

Whether your child is using their travel bag as a carry-on bag, an overnight bag or a day pack out at Disney or on a hiking adventure, this durable travel backpack will be well used and loved. 

Why this is our top pick:

A comfortable backpack will ensure that your kids are happier and less likely to complain. Or leave you to carry  all their stuff.

Happy kids = Happy parents. 

Its S-shaped shoulder straps are made to prevent neck and shoulder pain by evenly distributing the weight of the bag.

Another important aspect of this bag are the buckles on both the front and backside of the Deuter backpack. Not only will they keep their items safe, it will also help distribute weight even more so to help alleviate back pain.

Plus your kids can use it as a hiking backpack no problem.

2. Storage & Size

The Deuter Junior Kids Backpack is 18L , a versatile size for different lengths of trips, and is suitable as a travel backpack for kids 5+.

It could even be used for carry-on travel for a week or more, if strategic with your packing list. Fit a tablet, a weekend’s worth of clothes, some toys, books, toiletries and other  small items.

As far as storage goes, they will have many different options. There are side and front pockets, as well as the huge main compartment that’s secured with a cinch. Kids will like being able to store all their special gear in the various pockets.

3. Extra Features & Quality

The Deuter Junior Backpack is durable . As are all Deuter bags (going on 8 years with my adult bag now), which is an important consideration, when paying a little bit more for quality.

Extra features include a name tag within the bag so you don’t have to worry about it being accidentally claimed by another family (or family member). Plus it’s available in a variety of colors to suit your child’s personality.

For the younger kids, check out the super sweet Deuter Kikki Kids Backpacks below.

• Ergonomic padded shoulder straps & chest strap
• Ventilated back
• Side pockets – Fits water bottles
• 2 front zip pockets 
• Water Resistant
• Versatile for hiking, traveling or school
• Will likely be too big for kids younger than 5
• Not waterproof, (but is water resistant, like most backpacks)
• The side pockets are not mesh, and you can’t tighten them, so a water bottle may fall out when leaning over too far.

Size : 18 Litres / 4.7 gallons

Weight: 14.8 ounces

Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 3 inches

REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack – Top Tweens Hiking Backpack

Top Travel Backpack Pick for 8-12 yr olds

Perfect for: Outdoor Adventures & Full days Sightseeing

REI’s Tarn 18 Pack for kids comes in as the top choice for 8-12 year olds.

While it’s made for 8-12, many parents have raved about this durable, well made pack for 6 & 7 year olds as well (and younger).

This is the perfect pack for a day hike, a day at a theme park or out at the beach , as there is plenty of room for all their gear, plus space for a hydration reservoir.

At 18L, this also can fit enough clothes for a weekend getaway as well.

There are so many features, I don’t know where to start. This kids backpack has a large main zippered compartment, a zippered front pocket, a front stuff pocket, plus a zippered internal pocket to store items more securely.

With padded shoulder straps, hip belt and a padded ventilated back, comfort is the word of the day. If they’re complaining, it won’t be about this bag.

• Durable, water repellent material
• Compartments of many sizes
• Sternum strap to keep the shoulder straps in place
• Padded shoulder straps
• Large mesh waterbottle outside pockets
• Reflective zipper pulls, and lash loops for extra nightime security
• Compatible with a hydration reservoir
• Multipurpose – hiking, walking, traveling, overnight bag & more
• Made with recycled materials, so better for the earth
• The water reservoir is not included, you’ll have to buy separately.

Weight: 17 ounces

Dimensions: 16.5 x 9 x 4.5 inches

CamelBak Kid’s Scout Hydration Pack

Perfect For: Busy, full days & handy hydration

If you struggle to get your kids to drink more water during the day, then this pack is for you.

Another close favorite on our list is the CamelBak Hydration Pack Backpack . This is the perfect kids hiking backpack if you are planning hikes, a lot of walking or sightseeing for the day. 

I don’t know about you, but we find it challenging some days to make sure our kids drink enough water. To be honest, I struggle with this myself.

With the CamelBak Scout Hydration Backpack , we like the combo of our kids staying easily hydrated, with enough room to carry everything they need for the day in one bag. For some reason it is more enticing to drink water out of a tube on their back.

It comes with a 1.5 liter water reservoir, reflective material, and even a sternum strap. The sternum strap even includes a safety whistle. All three of these characteristics make it a great choice for travelers that enjoy outdoor activities.

Since it is a high quality and lightweight bag, with various safety features, there are really no obvious reasons not to add this to you list of travel backpacks to buy.

• 12L capacity & 1.5L water reservoir
• Water reservoir has an on off lever to prevent leaks 
• Breathable, wicking mesh back for comfort in hot weather
• Mesh side pocket
• Front zipper pocket
• Safety Features: Reflective strips and whistle
• Water Bladder doesn’t come with insulation (to keep water colder, longer on hot days)

Size : 12 L

Weight : 310g / 10 oz

Hydration: 1.5L / 50 oz

Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack – Tween Travel Pack

Best for: Tweens who travel with laptop or iPads

Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack is a classic bag, perfectly suited for tweens for travel days, school or as a daypack. The many different pockets work well for travel, and the inside padded compartment will keep their devices safe.

• 22L capacity
• Padded and lined 15 inch laptop sleeve
• Front pocket with internal mesh organizers
• Many zippered pockets large and small
• Comfortable straps
• Waterproof zipper detail
• Over 30+ color options
• Backpack itself weighs over 1.5lbs
• Water bottle pocket is inside the pack

Size : 22 L

Weight : 1.76 pounds

Dimensions: 7.5 x 11.75 x 6 inches

Bago Packable Lightweight Backpack

Perfect For : Lightweight packable carry-on

The Bago Packable water resistant backpack is another of my top picks for best travel backpacks for kids, especially when traveling on planes.

There are times when you just need a little extra room & a lightweight bag they can pull out, or store easily, depending on their needs. Not only is this bag less than 1lb, it  expands to 25L and also folds down in itself into a little pouch. 

The Bago packable backpack is so small, you may just want  to buy an extra one to throw in your luggage yourself.

Save on overweight baggage frees from all the souvenirs your family bought. Or add it to the adults bag for day trips as extra storage, just in case.

Although a foldable bag is not necessary, it can come in handy when traveling through airports. Since most airlines have size requirements, having the Bago Packable backpack will allow you to always meet the standard size.

Another perk of this travel bag is that it has a lot of storage in its many different compartments. Help keep your child’s entertainment, snacks, & extra clothes well organized, so there’s less Mom / Dad  I can’t find it  (said in a whiny voice). 

The only real downside of this backpack is that the straps  are unpadded so it could potentially be a bit uncomfortable with all day wear. 

• Lots of storage –  front jacket pocket, two side water bottle pockets, external pocket,  inner zip pocket, and large main compartment.
• Water & Tear resistant fabric
• Foldable into a handy pouch
• Breathable mesh shoulder straps
• Inexpensive
• Straps are not padded, so may be uncomfortable if worn all day, with a heavy load.

Weight: 0.7lbs

Dimensions: 16.5 x 7.1 x 11.8 inches

Abshoo Classical Basic Travel Backpack

Perfect for : Tweens , day trips and casual city strolling

This sturdy, fun and stylish backpack will be perfect for you tweens special items.

It comes in over 15 colors / patterns so there would be something even the pickiest tween would love.

This is a light, easy to set up bag for tweens, so parents don’t have to be on standby.

It is the perfect water resistant backpack for carrying snacks, a water bottle, small games, and even a poncho or a change of clothes for a quick getaway trip.

• Water and tear resistant
• Fits a laptop, tablet
• Affordable price
• Large capacity – 4 layers and two pockets
• Cushioned, supportive straps
• Great for casual walks, daily use, travel backpacks
• Water bottle holder
• 12 month warantee
• Some may not like the rigid material

Weight: 5.6 oz / 0.160 kg

Dimensions: 12.2 x 5.3 x 16.5 Inch

Ladyzone Camo Backpack

Perfect for: Outdoor kids who play rough

The Ladyzone Camo Backpack i s a full size bag made of very durable fabric that is tear, scratch, and splash resistant.

Being such high quality, it definitely makes this bag great for camping, outdoor activities , or even just for children that like to get a little rough sometimes. Perfect for adventurous family vacations .

It has adjustable S shaped shoulder straps, with reflective fabric, and is available in multiple different colors. 

• Tear and water resistant fabric
• Ergonomic shoulder straps
• Reflective fabric for safety
• Durable fabric
• Lots of room
• Lightweight
• 4 zippered compartments to store all their gear
• Some buyers noted the zipper broke within 6 months

Weight: 1.05lbs

Dimensions: 17.3″x11.8″x5.9″ (44x30x15cm)

You may also like 50+ Gift Ideas for Travel Lovers (for all ages and budgets!)

Mountaintop Kids Backpack

  Best for : Durable Pack for school and travel

The Mountaintop Kids School Backpack is a good choice if you are looking for  flexibility of use while traveling and at home for your 3 to 6 year old. 

There are side pockets to hold water bottles, adjustable shoulder straps, and a padded backside for comfortable wear.

Even though the main compartment is pretty big and can carry just about everything you would need, it has a few other pockets for smaller items as well.

Well designed for organizing your kids trinkets, toys, snacks, journal, change of clothes or anything they need for the day.

This kids backpack is water-resistant and very lightweight, which makes it a great option if you have full-day activities planned for your trip.

I definitely recommend getting this backpack for your child if they will be constantly wearing it, and are looking for a great value.

• Comfortable – S Shaped shoulder straps & Padded back
• Easy to clean 
• Good for longer hikes, walks
• Suitable for 3 to 6 yr olds
• Water resistant material, durable YKK zippers
• Separate wet laundry compartment & main compartment
• Comes in over 15 colours
• Kids can unbuckle front strap easily
• Can fit A4 paper but not  a folder (if also using for school)
• Won’t fit older children 7+

Weight: 11.2 ounces

Dimensions: 9.4” x 14.2” x 6.3”

J World New York Kids Rolling Backpack

Perfect for: Kids who like to rock n’ roll rather than carry a pack

If you want your child to have a roller bag for carry on luggage, or as overnight travel bags then the J World New York Kids Rolling Backpacks may just be your best option. It comes in many fun colors and patterns to choose from.

These super cute roller bags with wheels is larger capacity, with enough room to for a weekends worth of clothes, or books for school as a school bag. Multipurpose is always a plus when buying for kids.

This bag also converts from a rolling backpack on wheels into a wearable backpack with shoulder straps for greater versatility.

Whether you are sending your kids on vacation with someone else, or taking them yourself, this bag can definitely fit nearly everything that they will need for their next trip.

• Fun designs & colors
• Kids can roll it themselves
• Large enough for a weekends worth of clothes
• Small enough to use as a carry on
• Converts from rolling backpack to backpack
• Grab Handle
• Durable Material
• Handle extends to 34 or 39 inches
• Reflective tape for night visibility
• Tuckable shoulder straps
• Shoulder straps are not padded, and thin material
• Make sure the straps are tucked in well, or they can get loose and tangle in the wheels when not in use.

Weight: 4.5lbs

Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 9 inches

5 of the Best Toddler Backpacks for Traveling

Traveling with toddlers is a whole other kettle of fish.

While your toddler doesn’t need to have their own backpack, our family has found that it is easier to have a separate toddler travel bag just for them. Especially on road trips and airplane travel, (even if we end up carrying it for them half the time).

We usually put a change of clothes or pjs, small toys, crayons and paper and their stuffy.

Backpacks for toddlers can be fun, small and useful for carrying just a few items. We’ve put together the best toddler backpacks that your young child will love.

Deuter Kikki Backpack – Top Pick for Best Toddler Backpack

Top Toddler Choice & Best For: Getting your child to wear their own pack!

Your favourite youngster will love this perfectly sized child’s backpack for 3-5 year olds .

These backpacks would also work and be fun for kids younger than 3 as a carry-on for the plane, a day bag or to hold their stuff in the car. Let’s face it, at that age, it’s usually a parent carrying all the stuff anyways.

The Deuter Kikki Backpacks are a fun toddler travel backpack that come shaped like a friendly bear or bird (in blue, pink or green). Traveling just got more exciting.

There are adjustable padded shoulder straps, with a ventilated back for comfort in hot weather. Plus it’s durable material will likely outlast them growing out of it.

This backpack for toddlers is big enough to store extra clothes, diapers, wipes, a small toy or two, a snack and a water bottle.

• Versatile – can be used for  hiking, traveling and school 
• Sized with 3-5 year olds in mind
• Adjustable straps, and chest straps for supported wear
• Interior pocket sleeve
• Kids can easily open and shut pack and straps
• Water resistant
• Eco-friendly designation
• No place for a hydration pack like a camel back
• Won’t fit a full sized lunch box 
• A regular folder doesn’t fit inside

Weight: 0.31lb

Mountaintop Kids Toddler Backpack

Best For: Budget Friendly Toddler Backpack

This bag will definitely be the best bang for your buck.

The Mountaintop Kids Backpack has many of the features of the larger bag in a more compact, toddler friendly size.

This kids bag is water resistant , and even has a wet laundry compartment, making it a great bag to have on every trip (especially if you have messy kids or kids still in diapers).

Other perks of this toddler backpack include two side mesh compartments, padded straps, sternum straps , and even a name tag.

It is also only 9.9 ounces, which makes it one of the lightest travel backpacks you can get.

The only con is that it is a very small bag. However this works well for toddlers as they can’t reasonably carry much anyway. Just make sure to consider what will be packed into it before buying. 

• Budget Friendly
• Fits small children well 2-4 years
• Water Resistant Materials
• Padded shoulders & back for comfort
• Chest strap 
• Comes in over 20 colours
• Mesh side pockets fits water bottles (or treasures)
• Small  & doesn’t fit a regular sized folder so not a great school bag.

Weight: 9.9 ounces

Brica by-My-Side Toddler Safety Harness Backpack

Best for: Safety & toddlers who have trouble staying close

Brica By-My-Side is one of the best toddler backpacks for kids prone to running off. Or for traveling through busy cities, amusement parks and public transportation when holding hands can be more difficult.

Kids and parents like that it looks more like a backpack than a restraint, and the leash is removable when not needed. Peace of mind for parents.

• Harness and leash for safety
• Fits small children well 18months+
• Reflective strip for nighttime visibility.
• Comes in a few cute designs
• Mesh front pockets fits snacks & sippy cup
• Very small  & doesn’t fit a regular sized folder so not a great school bag.
• Straps aren’t well padded so may rub if pack is filled too heavy.

Size: small

Weight: 9.3 ounces

Dimensions: ‎4 x 7 x 11 inches

Fjallraven Kanken Mini Backpacks

Best for: Flexibility of use for both toddlers, kids and adults

If you have been to any outdoor stores, you have probably seen this brand before.

Although it is a bit pricey, the Fjallraven Kanken Mini  water repellant bags are high quality and very durable small bags. 

While originally they were released as a backpack for Swedish school kids, both adults and children can use this pack .

Bonus for those times you have to carry your kids pack, or you want to “borrow” it to use as a cute purse. I am eying the lime green version myself. So fun.

The only downside for this bag is that it is a bit small. But, if you are only planning on packing a few small toys, snacks, and possibly a journal, it will be perfect.

With its chic design and many different color options, you can also make sure your child gets the bag they specifically want so that everyone is happy. 

If you are looking for a larger size for yourself (because you absolutely deserve it), then you can’t go wrong with the Fjallraven Kanken full size or the Fjallraven Laptop Pack that fits most airlines carry-one requirements. 

• 7 Litre capacity
• 3 exterior pockets
• Water repellent – deflects light rain and snow
• Removable seat pad
• Adjustable straps 
• Fashionable
• Both adults and kids can use
• Pricier for the size

Weight: 7.8 ounces

Dimensions: 11.4 x 7.9 x 5.1 inches

Urban Toddler Backpack

Perfect for: Urban adventures with toddlers

Last but definitely not least, this Urban Toddler Backpack is lightweight and durable backpack is very easy to clean, open, and carry.

With many different patterns, including superheros, cars, flowers, polar bears and more, your choice of backpacks for travling with a toddler, just got more fun.

It has a side tube that can carry paper books, mesh water bottle pockets, and even a ‘D’ ring for small attachments.

This is another small kids backpack, but for a toddler it seems to be a great size for daily wear.

If you are worried about the size but love the bag, remember that you could change out what you pack each day, rather than packing everything in it before your trip.

• Great travel backpack for 2-5/6 year old
• perfect size for a toddler
• Waterproof & easy to clean
• Bottle holder
• Oversized zipper – easy to pull
• Vertical side tube for your child’s artwork, school work  
• Small Bag – doesn’t fit a folder if you want to use for school as well

Dimensions: 12.2 x 4.72 x 13.39 inches

What To Look For When Purchasing a Travel Backpack for Kids

When buying a travel backpack for your child, there are a few things you will want to take into consideration. Since kids are much tinier humans than adults, there are certain questions you should ask yourself before deciding on which backpack will be best.

1. Purpose of the Backpack

One of the first things you should consider is what the backpack will actually be used for.

For example, you will need to carry different items when hiking than you would for a stroll through the city. Likewise, they may only need a backpack for carry on luggage, rather than daily use on your trip.

If you know what the purpose of the backpack will be, it will be much easier to determine which options are the best travel backpacks for you to consider.

2. Weight – Choose Lightweight Travel Backpacks for Kids

Another thing you will want to ask yourself is how heavy is the empty backpack first, and if it will be okay on your kid’s back. I mean, even as adults, we don’t generally want to carry a heavy bag around all day. So, it’s safe to assume our children don’t either.

When considering the weight, you should also note how much you (or your child) will be packing in the backpack. Since that will add a significant amount of weight, it is important you factor it in when looking for the best travel bag for your kid.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, backpacks should weigh between 10% to 15% of your child’s body weight, never more. A kids backpack that’s too heavy can lead to shoulder, neck and back pain at any age. Not the best way to start or end a vacation.

3. Shoulder & Sternum Straps

Lastly, I recommend getting a bag with wide shoulder straps and a sternum strap . The wider shoulder strap allows the backpack’s weight to sit nicely on the shoulders, instead of digging into your child’s traps or shoulders.

Similarly, a sternum strap will also help distribute the weight evenly , rather than only pulling on shoulders and weighing down the back.

The more comfortable the travel backpack, the more willing your child will be to wear it.

Final Thoughts on Travel Backpacks for Kids

Finding the best travel backpack for kids does not have to be hard.

Once you have considered the purpose of the backpack, weight, and how the weight will be distributed, it really just comes down to your personal preference.

Whether you choose it based on brand, size, price, or style, you can’t go wrong with any of the kids backpacks listed on this page for travel, home or on the road.

Does my kid need a backpack when traveling?

If you have a backpack for your toddler or child, it will relieve you from having to carry everything yourself. This can also teach them to be slightly self-sufficient, by allowing them to decide what they want to bring and having to carry it around regularly.

What can my kid carry in their backpack when traveling?

When deciding what to pack in your kid’s bag, it depends on what they will want, use, and need. But, the options are pretty endless. Your kid’s backpack can have snacks, toys, tablets, extra clothes, or even souvenirs. You’ll want to keep their backpack light though and pack the main items and heavier items in their suitcase.

What Size Backpack Does My Child Need?

To get an accurate size of backpack, first you must measure your child from their shoulder line, where the straps will rest, to their waistline.

Then add 2 inches to the measurement, to get the maximum height of backpack your child should wear.

When your child is wearing their pack, the top should sit about 0.78″-2″ below the tops of their shoulders, and rest near the top of their pelvis, or up to 4″ below the waist.

Average child’s back sizes:

Related travel gear, resources, destination:

• Awesome, fun and useful camping gifts for kids
• Hawaii with Kids – where to go, what to do, where’s the beach?!?!
• How to stay sane on family vacations!
• Best anti-theft travel backpacks

Packed for Life is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.ca.

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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The 14 Best Kids Backpacks for Travel, Tested and Reviewed

Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

We tested backpacks with kids aged 3 to 18 years old and picked the best bags for upcoming trips.

Travel + Leisure

Fact checked by Rich Scherr

A backpack designed for kids is the best way to store any and all carry-on essentials in one easy-to-access place. From packing snacks to technology, a kids travel backpack can be a game-changer on your next family vacation, ensuring they have what they need on long journeys.

Our expert product-testing parents and their children tried 38 kids backpacks from brands like Nike, Lululemon, Jansport, and more to find the best of the best for durability, comfort, design, and capacity. After carefully reviewing each backpack, we're recommending the most durable, comfortable, and functional bags for all ages ranging from preschoolers to seniors in high school.

Best Overall, Younger Kids: Wildkin Jurassic Dinosaurs Pack It All Backpack

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Walmart.com

Why We Love It

The backpack has comfy padded straps and a material that spot cleans easily.

What to Consider

There aren’t many pockets.

The Wildkin Pack-it-all Backpack is both kid- and parent-approved after impressing us in the durability and comfort testing categories. While the dinosaur print pattern was a big factor in design ratings, the lightweight material and padded straps also won us over. The adjustable straps were easy to tighten and the backpack remained securely fastened, especially for active kiddos. No worries if the backpack gets dirty, as all you have to do is grab a washcloth and the bag can be spot-cleaned in minutes to look good as new.

In addition, we love that the capacity is big enough to fit a laptop, folders, a lunchbox, and a water bottle without feeling bulky or cumbersome to carry. The smooth zippers open up to reveal a spacious main compartment, but we wish there were a few more pockets besides the front slip pocket and side water bottle holder. With no major drawbacks during testing, we think this Wildkin backpack is plenty versatile for your little one to travel from the classroom to the airport in comfort and style.

Price at time of publish: $45

The Details: 1.25 pounds | 15 x 11 x 4.7 inches | Ages 3 to 10

Best Overall, Older Kids: The North Face Vault Backpack

Buy at Zappos.com

The 27-liter capacity is perfect for storing everyday school supplies without feeling too bulky.

There could be one more zippered pocket for extra organization.

Middle and high schoolers alike will appreciate the sleek and straightforward design of The North Face Vault Backpack. The 27-liter capacity is just the right size for loading up the bag with necessities for school, including a lunchbox, water bottle, binders, and a laptop or tablet, and would offer great space for plane trips, too.

There are two separate compartments for dividing contents with a 15-inch laptop sleeve in the back section and several slip and zippered pockets in the front compartment. One more zippered pocket on the inside of either compartment would have been helpful for extra organization but the backpack still offers a solid amount of storage. When it comes to comfort, the back panel has two strips of thick foam padding in addition to the plush padded shoulder straps that are also adjustable. The bag is the perfect size for swinging it on and off the shoulders and the zippered pockets are easy to access with one hand to conveniently grab a snack or water bottle.

Price at time of publish: $65

The Details: 27 liters | 1.11 pounds | 18 x 11 x 8.5 inches | 15-inch laptop sleeve

Best Budget: Abshoo Classical Basic Travel Backpack

The generous capacity is perfect for packing everything from clothes to snacks.

It feels a bit bulky to wear.

This cost-effective travel backpack wowed us with an impressive capacity for packing kids' essentials. With two large zippered compartments, the bag can stash a lunch box, water bottle, folders, gloves, and a football for school days — all in just one section — so we're certain in-flight essentials will easily fit, too. Although the backpack feels a bit bulky due to its large capacity, the adjustable and padded straps certainly help with customizing the fit of the backpack for extra comfort. After using the backpack in various weather conditions like rain and snow (and the occasional water bottle leak), it looks good as new without any signs of wear.

Price at time of publish: $30

The Details: 16.5 x 12.2 x 5.3 inches | Ages 3 and up

Best for Air Travel: State Bags Kane Kids Double Pocket Backpack

Buy at Maisonette.com

Buy at Saksfifthavenue.com

The dual compartments make it easy to separate and organize items while flying.

It’s best suited for older kids.

When it comes to traveling by airplane, the State Bags Kane Kids Double Pocket Backpack is the best option for kids. The two spacious compartments make it easy to efficiently pack a carry-on backpack with your child since there are designated spots for air travel essentials plus a luggage sleeve on the reverse. The back compartment has a padded laptop or tablet sleeve, so you’ll know exactly where to grab electronics when you pass through TSA security checkpoints. Since both the back and front sections are similar sizes, there’s plenty of space for a blanket, headphones, snacks, and a change of clothes.

After testing the backpack on sunny and rainy days, we were thrilled that the polyester canvas material holds up perfectly against the elements without any color fading or staining. For long travel days, we’re confident this backpack will provide plenty of comfort, as we found the padded and adjustable straps to be snug and secure without feeling constrictive or rough. One thing to note is that the bag is on the bulkier side so it could be too large for smaller kids.

Price at time of publish: $110

The Details: 16 liters | 14.95 x 11.22 x 7.5 inches | Ages 7 and up

Related: The 10 Best Waterproof Backpacks of 2023

Best Basic: Nike Elemental Kids Backpack

Buy at Dickssportinggoods.com

Buy at Nike.com

The design is simple and ideal for versatility.

The capacity is on the smaller side.

The no-frills design of the Nike Elemental Backpack makes it a versatile backpack for a range of activities. Our middle-school-aged tester used the backpack for trips to school, but they noted after the initial tests that they are looking forward to using it for upcoming hikes, as its lightweight feel is perfect for treks. While the polyester material is noticeably lightweight, the backpack doesn’t feel flimsy or any less supportive. In fact, the padded back panel and straps were a hit with our tester for comfort and stability while running or walking. There aren’t any interior pockets, but we were still able to fit books and a jacket, though the capacity could be a bit bigger if the backpack is being used for school. One of the best parts of the bag is that it’s exceptionally easy to clean with a paper towel to wipe away stains from daily wear and tear.

Price at time of publish: $35

The Details: 20 liters | 18 x 12 x 5 inches

Best Pattern: Lands End Kids ClassMate Small Backpack

Buy at Landsend.com

Buy at Target.com

The fabric design is colorful and sparkly without getting glitter everywhere.

The straps are slightly difficult to adjust.

Lands’ End is known for boasting unique patterns on clothing and accessories, and the Kids ClassMate Small Backpack is no exception. The sparkly green, purple, and blue paint stripe pattern was an instant eye-catcher and there are plenty more unique colors and patterns to choose from. Besides the colorful design, we love the lightweight polyester material of the backpack and our tester was able to wear it without feeling any discomfort. Parents will appreciate the lighter weight of the backpack since they carry the bag half of the time, too. The only issue you may run into is with adjusting the backpack straps, as it might be slightly difficult for little ones. One of the bag's best features is that the material dries very quickly if it gets wet or caught in the rain, so we think this backpack not only looks stylish, but it’s versatile and functional for traveling year-round.

Price at time of publish: $40

The Details: 16 x 11.5 x 6 inches

Related: The 9 Best Mini Backpacks of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Customizable: Light + Nine Checkered Starter Backpack

Buy at Nordstrom.com

Buy at Lightplusnine.com

The exterior polyester has little holes in it for charms and pins.

The holes in the material could make it difficult to clean.

This customizable backpack makes getting ready for school or traveling a little more fun with the option to buy Light + Nine’s Nimix decor sets for adding removable patches like rainbows, animals, and astronauts. The backpack is designed for adding decorations without damaging the exterior fabric thanks to the small silicone holes surrounding the bag. In addition to the customizable features, we appreciate that the lining is easy to wipe down for cleaning, and the backpack can be unzipped to lay flat to clean and dry easier. The backpack and straps feel a little stiff, but the materials loosen up over time so we don't think that's a deal-breaker by any means.

Price at time of publish: $70

The Details: 1 pound | 11.5 x 14.5 x 4 inches | Ages 3 to 6

Best Wheeled: J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack 18 Inch

It’s easy for small children to wear the backpack or wheel it when it’s packed full.

We wish there were a few more pockets for organization.

Sometimes a backpack can be a little too heavy for a little one, so we’re big fans of the JWorld Sunrise Rolling Backpack. From wheeling the bag to preschool to packing it with snacks and clothes for trips, it's super easy and intuitive to load up and use the bag. The main compartment is simple to unzip with two hands so you can pack it with clothes, a water bottle, a tablet, books, and snacks. While we love the spacious main compartment, we wish there were a few more interior pockets for storing smaller items. While it's important to not back a bag too full for small kids, the option to roll the backpack if it felt too heavy is helpful for days when the bag is on the heavier side. Whether the backpack was wheeled or carried, it proved to be plenty comfortable while on the go and easy to maneuver, which is perfect for a busy airport .

The Details: 4.5 pounds | 34.50 liters | 18 x 13 x 9 inches | Ages 8 and up

Best for Toddlers: Skip Hop Spark Style Big Kid Backpack Rocket

Buy at Barnesandnoble.com

Buy at Carters.com

The generous capacity is ideal for travel necessities for little ones like an extra change of clothes.

The straps are lightly padded and a bit stiff at first.

The rocket ship design of the Skip Hop Spark Style Big Kid Backpack offers a creative backpack that toddlers will surely love. Thanks to the wide opening into the main compartment, it was a breeze to pack toddler travel essentials like a change of clothes, snacks, and a water bottle. The durability of the backpack material made it a winner since all it needs is a quick spot clean to get any dirt or other stains out quickly. While this wasn’t the most comfortable backpack we tested due to the stiff straps and less padding, there wasn’t any noticeable discomfort or pain after wearing the backpack over time.

The Details: 10.5 x 5 x 14 inches | Ages 3 and up

Related: The 13 Best Backpacks for Disney Vacations in 2023

Best for Middle Schoolers: High Sierra Loop Backpack School Travel Work Bookbag

Buy at Ebags.com

There are lots of pockets and compartments for organizing school supplies.

The capacity could be a bit bigger.

The High Sierra Loop Daypack Backpack offers an impressive amount of comfort and generous capacity for storing school supplies. The three different-sized compartments make it easy to pack items like folders, binders, lunch boxes, headphones, pencil cases, and water bottles with ease. There is an interior media pocket that is ideal for easy access to headphones or a tablet while traveling. We wish the middle compartment was a little bit bigger for a lunch box, as it was a squeeze to get it in with everything else, but the capacity works well for travel and school necessities. The straps are fully padded and, although there isn’t a chest strap, the weight feels evenly distributed when our tester wore the backpack for long periods of time. After wearing the backpack in the rain, we’re happy to report that it kept all of the contents dry, and with lots of use to and from school, it’s still in excellent condition with minimal stains.

The Details: 2.05 pounds | 33 liters | 19 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches

Best Organization: L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack

Buy at Llbean.com

There are plenty of pockets and the capacity is large enough to fit a jacket, books, snacks, and a water bottle.

The chest strap doesn’t get tight enough to fit snugly across the chest.

The L.L.Bean Deluxe Book Pack will keep the contents of the backpack neatly organized thanks to the variety of pockets and pouches for a variety of items. We were able to fit a jacket, a water bottle, a folder, a binder, and several library books between the two main compartments. For smaller items like little toys or cash, we loved the interior zipper and mesh pockets, as well as the small front pocket for easy access to the packed items. In terms of comfort, the plush padded straps were a hit with our tester and although the chest strap was a little big, the backpack stayed in place while running to catch the bus.

Price at time of publish: $55

The Details: 1.5 pounds | 32 liters | Nylon | Ages 10 and up

Best Smart: Nordace Aerial Infinity Backpack

Buy at Nordace.com

The USB charging port, RFID-blocking pockets, and comfortable padded straps make this bag ideal for travel.

It cannot be machine-washed due to the built-in smart features.

The Aerial Infinity Backpack from Nordace is packed full of handy features to make traveling a breeze, especially for high school and even college students. For charging a laptop, phone, or tablet, the 3-in-1 USB port can accommodate type-C, lightning, and micro-USB cables so that all of your technology can be fully charged on the go (but a power bank is not included). The 20-liter capacity is large enough for basic school supplies or small travel accessories and the high-quality feel of the water-resistant fabric matches the higher price point.

Lined with a breathable soft padding on the back panel and straps, the backpack is exceptionally comfortable for wearing it for long periods of time without getting sweaty or overheating. Additional features include RFID-blocking credit card slots, a variety of slip pockets on the interior, a water bottle holder, and luggage sleeve. One thing to note is that the backpack can’t be machine-washed but dirt and dust easily comes off with the help of a damp washcloth.

Price at time of publish: $130

The Details: 20 liters | 2.2 pounds | 18.5 x 11.5 x 6.25  inches | 15-inch laptop sleeve | 3-in-1 USB charging port | RFID-blocking pockets

Best Value: Jansport Main Campus

The bag lives up the reliable backpack brand’s promise of durability and functionality for all ages.

Some of the pockets and compartments felt excessive.

One of the most recognizable bag brands out there, you simply can’t go wrong with a durable and affordable JanSport backpack. Come rain or shine, the recycled 600-denier polyester protects the contents packed in the bag thanks to the double-layered and water-resistant fabric. There are two main compartments for packing a sweatshirt, binders, books, notebooks, or a lunchbox, and there are pockets upon pockets for organizing smaller school or travel supplies, too. For peace of mind, the laptop sleeve is fully padded to protect your expensive technology while out and about.

Some of the pockets seem unnecessary but for those who like to be extra organized, this backpack is your best bet. The fabric does attract some dirt and dust when it’s on the floor but as soon as you shake off the bag, it looks good as new. Plus, there are 25 colors and patterns to choose from to please any age range.

The Details: 32 liters | 1.55 pounds | 17 x 12.5 x 7 inches | 15-inch laptop sleeve

Best Capacity: Columbia Zigzag 30L Backpack

The minimalist design and larger 30-liter capacity makes it easy to pack the bag with a variety of items.

There could be more pockets for smaller items.

For packing sweatshirts, lunchboxes, and any smaller supplies in between, the Columbia Zigzag backpack has an impressive 30-liter capacity. The backpack has two main compartments that are super spacious and help separate bigger items to stay naturally organized when traveling or heading to school. There aren’t many interior pockets but the front of the bag has one medium-size zippered pocket and a water bottle holder on the side for some extra storage. For school-aged kids using laptops or tablets, there is a padded laptop sleeve that can fit a device up to 15 inches long. Both the back panel and shoulder straps have generous padding which helps with comfort but it isn’t the most breathable on warmer days which is something to consider for hot or humid climates. The shoulder straps are very easy to adjust to get the best fit and the PU-coated polyester fabric is long-lasting so the backpack can easily be reused year after year.

The Details: 30 liters | 1.3 pounds | 18.1 x 11.8 x 10.6 inches | 15-inch laptop sleeve

Other Kids Backpacks We Tested

There were several backpacks we tested and liked, but didn’t quite make our final list due to a few downsides like slight discomfort, thin materials, and a lack of pockets for organization.

Pottery Barn Kids Glow-in-the-Dark Backpacks : We love the bright patterns and ability to customize the backpack with a monogram, but the fabric feels a little flimsy and less durable than other backpacks we tried.

Simple Modern Disney Kids Backpack : This backpack is comfortable to wear, comes in tons of designs and colors, and spot cleans easily, but we felt that there were other backpacks with more standout features for traveling.

Athleta Girl Limitless Backpack : There are plenty of pockets, padded straps, and a solid capacity, but it wasn’t the most comfortable backpack we tested.

Adidas Prime Backpack : This sporty backpack is made with a durable recycled polyester material that can be spot-cleaned to get rid of dirt or grass marks easily. The capacity is impressive but excessive and there was almost too much room left over, even after the bag was packed with school supplies and sports gear.

lululemon City Adventurer Pack : If you’re looking for a stylish backpack for your teens or tweens, this lululemon bag is a great option but it comes at a higher price point for a fairly simple bag.

Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack : The no-frills backpack has an intuitive design for packing up all of your essentials in an organized manner thanks to the variety of helpful pockets. The backpack is a little large and bulky so it might be too big for smaller kids.

Our Testing Process

When it comes to testing travel products for kids, we turn to our expert product-testing parents and their children to help us find the best picks on the market for upcoming trips. For this test, the parents provided us with detailed observations and insights about each backpack after their children (ages 3 to 18 years old) used the bags for school, travel, and extracurricular activities.

Paying close attention to capacity, design, durability, and comfort, we rated 38 backpacks on a scale of one to five in each category. We packed the bags full of everyday essentials like snacks, extra clothing, water bottles, and books, and then the kids used the bag for school or other activities. In the end, the best backpacks we tried had plenty of room without feeling bulky, plus padding and adjustable straps for comfort. We loved the backpacks with a variety of pockets for staying organized while traveling and found the most durable backpacks were easy to spot clean after getting dirty and looked good as new even with prolonged use.

Tips for Buying a Kids Backpack

Look at backpack size and weight.

When it comes to purchasing a comfortable backpack for your youngster, it's helpful to look at the capacity, weight, and materials of the bag to get a better idea of the size. Usually, there will be product specifications that also list the intended age range for the backpack, so you can factor in the most important features of the backpack to select the best one for your child.

Consider wheels versus straps

Traveling with a backpack with just shoulder straps is the most common route to go, but backpacks with wheels can be ideal when the bag gets too heavy to be carried comfortably. However, it can be slightly difficult to maneuver a rolled backpack so you may want to look for a wheeled backpack that also has straps for extra versatility.

Factor in the intended use

Whether you’re looking for a backpack for school, travel, or both, you’ll want to consider the main use of the backpack to choose the best one for your child. For example, a larger backpack might be better for school, but it could be cumbersome to carry around for long trips. Opting for a lightweight backpack with less space or pockets might be better for a little one carrying a bag through an airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a child bring a backpack on an airplane?

In general, anyone with a ticket for a flight will be able to have a personal item like a small backpack. Packing travel necessities in your child’s backpack is a great way to utilize the amount of bags you’re allowed to bring onto the plane. However, you’ll want to double-check any airline restrictions if you’ve booked a fare with no allotted carry-on bags .

How do I clean a kids’ travel backpack?

We always recommend looking at the manufacturer’s guidelines for washing a backpack, but if directions are unavailable, you should be able to spot clean the fabric with soapy water and a towel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a Commerce Writer at Travel + Leisure , where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best kids backpacks for travel based on a series of tests completed by parents and their children (ages 3 to 18) in a real-world setting.

Related: The 11 Best Diaper Bags for Travel of 2023

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Best travel backpacks for kids

Posted on Last updated: 13 November 2023

As a family, backpacking is our preferred way to travel. We love the ease of minimalist family travel , jumping on and off busses and trains. We pack light and two spare hands are always ‘handy’ when travelling with young kids. But with so much choice, what is the best travel backpack for kids?

In the very early days of backpacking with kids , when the boys were under the age of four, such as when we travelled Sri Lanka with kids , us parents would carry everything the boys needed in our own backpacks. Around the age of 4/5, they would have their own small backpack each to get used to carrying their own things (at this age the essentials were cuddly toys and a few clothes).

From the age of 6, the boys had their own backpacks to travel with, containing almost everything they needed.

When it came to finding the best backpack for our 4 months of family travel in Morocco , I was surprised how little decent choice there was for kids travel backpacks. Yes, there are a lot of backpacks on the market, but surprisingly little in the way of travel backpacks that fitted our criteria.

Nevertheless, we’ve done the research for you, and put the backpacks to the test across Africa, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Read on for the best travel backpack for kids.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, and I receive a small commission.

What age should kids carry their own backpack?

As with most things with kids, the earlier you introduce them to something, the sooner they get used to it.

A very small and light backpack from the age of 4 is a good way for kids to get used to carrying their own things. Yes, you may end up carrying it on many occasions (this is why it needs to be small and light), but it gives them a sense of responsibility.

When we left for our 4 months travelling Morocco , the boys were 6 and 8 years old, and it felt the right time for them to have a backpack each for our adventures. I would have got the eldest a backpack sooner, but the pandemic put a stop to our backpacking for a couple of years.

What to look for when buying a travel backpack for kids

Kids travel backpacks need to fit correctly for them to be comfortable. You also want the backpack to last the years, but not break the bank.

When buying a kids travel backpack, you need to look for:

• a waist strap to distribute the weight of the backpack
• 30L – 40L to fit everything in
• a backpack that isn’t too long in the back, with no gap between their shoulders and arm straps
• separate compartments for ease of access
• good quality material and stitching to last the distance
• a backpack that is affordable

Try some out, if you can

As with kids shoes, it’s a good idea to try some out. A kids travel backpack need to fit correctly and comfortably, otherwise they may not want to carry it (one guess as to who will end up carrying it instead).

We live in Bakewell in the heart of the UK’s Peak District , which is a haven for outdoor lovers. On our doorstep are at least half a dozen outdoor shops. So one Saturday afternoon, we walked into the town to try out some kids travel backpacks.

I was totally dumbfounded that there were no kids travel backpacks in stock anywhere for us to try! Well there were some cute animal-character backpacks, but these were not at all ideal for travelling with (no waist strap, no separate compartments, and completely the wrong size).

So we decided to try Decathlon. Our nearest one is a good 30 minutes drive away in Sheffield, so not ideal. The choice kids travel backpacks in stock were extremely limited. There was an 18L kids backpack ( this one ) with a waist strap, but it wasn’t roomy enough to carry all their items, only had the one main compartment, and stitching quality didn’t fill me with confidence. Apparently Decathlon do a 40+10L backpack for kids , but 50L is too big for kids this age.

So we resorted to online shopping.

Online shopping for kids travel backpacks

As we were unable to try any kids travel backpacks on, we had to order online and try at home.

I asked followers on Instagram and two brands were recommended – Osprey and Deuter.

Now the Osprey Ace 38 (38L) ticks all the boxes for the best kids travel backpack, except for one important criteria at the time – cost. Prices were around £200 at the time, which seems a lot for a kids travel backpack. However, these have since come down in price on Amazon .

A cheaper kids travel backpack that still ticks all the boxes is the Deuter Fox Kids’ 30L Backpack . If you’re not picky on colour, you can often pick one up on Amazon for under £100.

• Adjustable AirSpeed trampoline suspended mesh backsystem
• Compatible with Hydraulics Reservoirs
• Integrated & detachable raincover
• Fixed lid with dual zippered pockets
• Side compression straps

• For children aged 8 and up
• The backpack grows with your child thanks to VariQuick back length adjustment
• Optimal load transfer thanks to the compact hip fins
• Hydration system attachment (compatible with deuter Streamer 3.0 – not included)
• Variable fastening options thanks to material straps in a wide range of positions

What backpacks do our kids travel with?

So it came down to price between the Osprey and Deuter.

We purchased one Deuter Fox Kids’ 30L Backpack online for both boys to try. For Arthur (age 8 at the time) it fitted perfectly on the shorter setting (you can adjust the back length as your child grows). It is a brilliant travel backpack for kids. It’s just the right size, has waist straps, adjustable back height to grow with him, and it’s decently priced (especially compared to the Osprey kids backpacks ).

However, for Ez (age 6 at the time) it was just too big. So we ended up buying the 18L Quecha kids backpack for him as it fitted perfectly and it (just about) fitted everything he needed. I didn’t expect it to last longer than the Morocco trip, but it has, and he also used it for our 10 weeks backpacking Southeast Asia . The Deuter one would have fitted him, but he could fit all he needed into the Decathlon bag, and we didn’t want to overload him. However, he bought a few extras with his pocket money on our Southeast Asia travels (LEGO and cuddly toys) and in hindsight, we should have upgraded his backpack before we left.

Check out our Southeast Asia packing list for families

What is the best travel backpack for kids?

When backpacking with kids , the backpack your kids carry could make or break a trip. It’s essential to get it right.

The best travel backpack for kids has to be the Deuter Fox Kids’ 30L Backpack . It ticks all the criteria – size, longevity, comfort, adjustable straps, different compartment. I can see the boys used them up to the age of 15. Plus, we’ve also used it as carryon for AirAsia and Firefly to/from Borneo , easyJet to Billund and from Milan , and also for Ryanair to Essaouira, Morocco (we just ensure the top compartment isn’t too full).

The 18L Quecha kids backpack from Decathlon did last longer than I thought it would, but it’s only 18L and for our backpacking adventures, kids need a little more volume to fill. The Osprey Ace 38 loses out on price.

You may also like to read: Kids travel journals How we afford to travel as a family Top 10 tips for PACKING LIGHT with kids

The Best Kids Travel Backpack Options for All Ages

Sharing is caring!

OK, you are ready to set off with your kids for the first time or the 100th, but just haven’t figured out how to pack. Our top recommendation for traveling families is to invest in a great kids travel backpack. Considering life on the road has its own obstacles to overcome, functional travel gear is a great way to help reduce everyone’s stress. 

Through the years we have found that the best travel backpacks are much more helpful than roller bags while schlepping through airports or train stations. That said, my son used his monkey roller bag in over 15 countries for several years. It was a great bag which kids love, but it is not always convenient. My son often struggled getting on escalators and up and down stairs, which meant I was left carrying it along with my bag as well.  For parents with more than one kid, this is not fun to deal with as you run for your tight connections.

Enter, the best kids travel backpack options for all ages. When my son was smaller he would carry just his travel essentials (i.e. art supplies, toys and snacks) in his backpack. Now at age 9, he carries everything he needs for our trips on his own.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The Best Kids Travel Backpacks – For All Ages

Mini trek 6l kids travel backpack – best toddler backpack.

The Mini Trek 6 liter backpack from Mountain Warehouse is small, but perfect for kids ages 3 and up. It is cheap (less than $15!), but durable, lightweight, has several pockets for goodies collected along the way, a water bottle holder and even reflective stripes for the dark. These bags have all the bells and whistles for little kids and allows them the space to hold just what they can carry. We even saw a grown up wearing it in Singapore  – so it’s not just for kids!

These bags are hardy, have all the necessary bells and whistles for little kids and can hold just what they can carry! We have used this bag through the ages from a main pack to now as a daypack.

Looking for a cuter kid specific 6L option? The Dueter Kikki backpack comes in several adorable animal designs that will have all the kids swooning!

Skiphop Toddler Backpack

The Skiphop Toddler backpack is a cute carry on backpacks version of the  Skiphop Roller bag that my son used for years. The roller bag was a hit in our family for ages, but often caused unnecessary struggles on escalators or going up and down stairs. We occasionally convinced our son to leave the roller at home in favor of the backpack which made our travels so much easier. The bag itself isn’t large and doesn’t hold a ton, but is perfect for toddlers who want to help out. They can keep their snacks, water and in flight/travel toys close at hand. 

If the little ones can’t carry it the entire time, it is small enough that you can easily strap it on to your backpack or roller bag with ease. This is a perfect starter kids travel backpack when your kids are just small and just getting the hang of travel life.

Fjallraven Kanken Mini Kids Travel Backpack

Do you follow the Bucket List Family like we do? If so, you know their kiddos all carry the trendy adorable Fjallraven Kanken mini kids travel backpacks. We love the stylish look of the Fjallraven Kanken Mini Travel backpacks.  You might think there isn’t a ton of shoulder support with the thin straps however they are ergonomically designed to spread out the weight making them light and easy to use.

Regardless, our suggestion is to use these mini kids backpacks for smaller kids who are just carrying along their little trinkets and toys for the road. This is not a heavy duty backpacking backpack, rather just a fun, cute travel pack for easy flight days!

Osprey Jet 18 / REI Tarn 18

An 18 liter backpack is the perfect kids travel backpack for kids aged 4-9 who aren’t quite ready to carry all of their gear, but can handle more than just a daypack. The Osprey Jet 18 is a great starter pack for a hiking backpacks and/or camping families. My son loves that this bag can also be used with a water reservoir to replace his water bottle when packing lighter. There are several little spots for all the little keepsakes kids pick up along the way as well as the front pocket for jackets, lovies and more!

REI’s Tarn 18 is also a great option in this size range. This bag offers a compact size for kids to easily use as carry on luggage and all day on the trail. It also has a great hip belt which helps for heavier packing days. 

We have used both of these kids travel backpacks for long weekend trips and for day trips where we needed to bring bulky winter gear. Packed well, both of these can hold about a week’s worth of small kids clothes and typically weigh no more than 10 lbs.

Osprey Ace 38 

The Osprey Ace 38 is weather resistant, but also has an included rain cover, plenty of pockets for organization as well as a wide open top for loading. There is also a removable “shelf” towards the bottom to seperate things like sleeping bags or in our case swimwear, jackets and shoes. This bag has a great suspension system, compression straps and can also be used as a carry on travel backpack. 

For the older kids who need more space and have the capacity to carry more, check out the larger version of this bag with the Ace 50 and Ace 75 . We love to use our Eagle Creek packing cubes with this bag to keep it organized and help in packing light.

Best Travel Backpack For the Older Kids (aka Grownups!)

Yes, you are here for kids bags, but what about for the grownups too? For grownups and older kids, check out the Osprey Farpoint 40  (and one for women ) which is also a great carry on bag for travelers. Lastly, make sure to check out our favorite Osprey Nova daypack with laptop compartment that packs a ton of stuff.  Need a little more sophistication? Check out the Tortuga Outbreaker travel backpack. Fully featured carry on perfect for travelers looking for ease and style. 

Need More Help Packing? Check out our top travel items for long term family travel.

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2 thoughts on “The Best Kids Travel Backpack Options for All Ages”

I’m so glad we met in Petra! If you ever get to Michigan, you’ve always have a place to stay! Cheers!

Thanks for the message Mary! We will have to make our way there for sure. And if you come to California, let me know too!

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11 Best Travel Backpacks for Kids

Are you planning to go on a family adventure with your little ones? We know how challenging it can be to travel with kids, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right travel gear, you can make your trip more comfortable, organized, and enjoyable for everyone. One of the essential items you should consider is a travel backpack for kids. Here are some things to consider when looking for the best travel backpacks for kids.

Things To Consider With Travel Backpacks for Kids

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a backpack are crucial when travelling with kids. A backpack that is too small won’t fit all the necessary items, while a backpack that is too big can be cumbersome and heavy for your child. Look for a backpack that is appropriate for your child’s age and size and can accommodate their essentials without weighing them down.

A lightweight backpack is ideal for your child, as it won’t add any unnecessary weight to their load. Heavy backpacks can cause backaches, shoulder pains, and fatigue. So make sure the backpack you choose is lightweight and comfortable for your child to carry around.

Carry On Options

If you’re flying, you’ll want to ensure that the backpack is the right size to be used as a carry-on item. This is a great way to keep your child’s essential items within reach during your flight.

A waterproof backpack will keep your child’s belongings dry, even during unexpected rain showers. Look for a backpack with a waterproof coating or material, so you don’t have to worry about your child’s items getting wet.

Material & Durability

The backpack’s material is also essential. Look for a durable material that can withstand wear and tear, spills, and stains. Nylon or polyester backpacks are great options. Kids can be rough with their belongings, so it’s essential to choose a backpack that can handle their rough-and-tumble play. Look for a backpack made from high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use. As, you want to buy a backpack that will last for a good few years.

Your child’s comfort is paramount when selecting a backpack. Look for a backpack with padded straps, back support, and ergonomic design to ensure your child’s comfort throughout your journey.

Design or Colour

Choose a backpack with a design or colour that your child loves. A backpack with their favourite cartoon character or colour will make them feel excited and eager to use it. As parents, we all know how true this is.

The Best Travel Backpacks for Toddlers and Kids

• Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid Backpacks
• Yodo Kids Insulated Toddler Backpack with Safety Harness Leash
• Deuter Schmusebar Kids Backpack
• Herschel Heritage Backpack
• Wildkin Backpack for Toddlers and Kids
• CamelBak Kids’ Mini MULE Hydration Pack
• Kanken Mini Backpack by Fjallraven
• Osprey Youth Jet 18 Backpack
• REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack – Kids’
• Everest Junior Backpack
• Tilami Rolling Backpack

1. Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid Backpacks

The Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid Backpacks are adorable backpacks with cute animal designs that kids will love. They have a roomy main compartment and an insulated pouch for snacks. The backpack also has adjustable, padded straps for comfort and a mesh bottle pocket on the side. We love how lightweight and durable these backpacks are.

2. Yodo Kids Insulated Toddler Backpack with Safety Harness Leash

The Yodo Kids Insulated Toddler Backpack is a great option for toddlers who love to carry their own backpack. It features an insulated front pouch for snacks and drinks and a detachable safety harness leash for added security.

3. Deuter Schmusebar Kids Backpack

The Deuter Schmusebar Kid’s Backpack is perfect for preschoolers. It has a spacious main compartment, a front pocket, and two side pockets for water bottles. The backpack also has a chest strap and padded shoulder straps for added comfort. We love the durable construction and bright colours that make it easy to spot in a crowd.

4. Herschel Heritage Backpack

One thing that makes this backpack great for kids is its size. It’s not too big, which makes it perfect for younger children who may not be able to handle a full-size backpack yet. But don’t let the size fool you – it still has plenty of room for a lunchbox, other supplies and maybe even a small jacket or sweater. It halso as a front pocket with a key clip. This travel backpack is ideal for older kids.

5. Wildkin Backpack for Toddlers and Kids

The Wildkin Backpack for Toddlers and Kids is a fun and colourful backpack with a variety of designs to choose from. It has a spacious main compartment, a front pocket, and two side pockets for water bottles. The backpack also has padded shoulder straps and a padded back for added comfort. We love the sturdy construction and the easy-to-clean material.

6. CamelBak Kids’ Mini MULE Hydration Pack

The CamelBak Kids’ Mini MULE Hydration Pack is a great option for kids who love outdoor adventures. It has a 1.5-litre hydration reservoir, a roomy main compartment, and a front pocket for small items. The backpack also has adjustable, padded straps and a breathable mesh back panel. We love the hydration feature and the fun designs.

7. Kanken Mini Backpack by Fjallraven

Its compact size and sturdy design make it ideal for older children to use as a backpack for school, day trips or even as a carry-on during family vacations. One of the features that make this backpack great for kids is its comfortable and adjustable straps that ensure a perfect fit for children of different sizes. Parents appreciate the durable and water-resistant Vinylon F fabric that makes the backpack easy to clean and maintain. The Kanken Mini also features a large main compartment, a front zippered pocket and two side pockets that provide ample space for kids to carry their essentials. The backpack is available in a variety of colours, which makes it easy for kids to choose one that suits their style.

8. Osprey Youth Jet 18 Backpack

This backpack is designed specifically for older kids and youth and has all the features you’d expect in an adult backpack, but scaled down to a smaller size. It’s lightweight, durable, and has a comfortable fit. We love the bright colours, and the hydration compatibility is a big plus for longer hikes. The only downside is the price point, which is on the higher side.

9. REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack – Kids’

The REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack is a fantastic backpack for kids who love the outdoors. One of the things that makes this backpack great for kids is its comfortable design. It has adjustable shoulder straps and a padded back panel that will help to distribute the weight of the backpack evenly across the back, reducing strain and discomfort. Another feature that parents love about the REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack is its durability. Made from high-quality materials, this backpack is built to last, even when it’s put through the wear and tear of outdoor adventures. It also has plenty of storage space for all of the essentials your child might need.

10. Everest Junior Backpack

This has the perfect size for older children (5+). It’s not too big and not too small. It has a spacious main compartment and a front zippered pocket for smaller items. Kids can easily organise their items with the different compartments and pockets.Additionally, the backpack has adjustable, padded straps that provide a comfortable fit for children of different sizes. This is important as it ensures that the backpack doesn’t cause any discomfort or strain on their backs, especially during longer walks or commutes.

11. Tilami Rolling Backpack

What makes it so great is the fact that it comes equipped with wheels and a retractable handle, which allows kids to easily roll it behind them instead of having to carry it on their backs. This can help to reduce the strain on their shoulders and back, and make it easier for them to get around. The backpack comes in a variety of fun and colourful designs that kids will love, including patterns like galaxy, animal prints, and more. Parents also love it for its durability and high-quality material.

In conclusion, finding the best travel backpack for your kids is an essential step in planning for a comfortable, organized, and enjoyable family adventure. When considering the perfect travel backpacks for kids, it’s important to take into account the size and capacity, weight, carry-on options, material, durability, comfort, and design. With the right backpack, you can ensure that your child’s essentials are within reach, and that they can carry them comfortably. The above-listed backpacks are some of the best travel backpacks for toddlers and kids on the market, and each has unique features that make them great for different situations. So go ahead and choose a backpack that suits your child’s needs, and you’ll be set for an amazing family adventure!

Head to  Booking with Kids  for more tips, support and family friendly travel guides. Check out our most loved  travel gear  from brands we trust.

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The Best Backpack for Travel With Kids: 9 Backpacks For Families

As a traveling family, we’re always on the lookout for the best backpack for travel with kids. Whether it’s a backpack for myself, my husband, or either of my kids, each member of our family has their own individual needs.

If your family is like mine, then you probably have a variety of different needs for travel backpacks too. And depending on how long you plan to travel, those needs may also impact the choices you make. So how do you sort through all the competing needs to choose the right backpack for you?

Fortunately, I’ve put together this post to help you figure out what to look for in kids backpacks and adult backpacks. And I’ve also compiled my top picks for the best backpack for travel with kids.

Hopefully, this will help you get prepared for your own travels. Whether you're packing for a weekend away to a nearby town, or prepping for a family gap year around the world , having the right adult and kid travel backpack is essential for a successful trip with your kids.

This post was originally published on October 24, 2021.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase something. But don't worry, this will not result in any extra costs to you.

Table of Contents

Top 3 backpacks for traveling with kids

Don't have time to read the whole post? Here are our top 3 choices for the best backpack for travel with kids:

• Kids carry-ons: Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack 20L
• Adult carry-ons: Thule Landmark 40L
• Checked bags: Osprey Sojourn 80L

Best backpack for travel with kids: kids carry-ons

When looking for the best bag for traveling with kids, you want to make sure you choose good bags for your kids to carry. 

Having your kids carry their own things is such a game-changer for travel, especially for air travel. Not only does it allow you to free up space in your own bags, it also gives your kids some autonomy in choosing what they bring with them when they travel. 

You can set certain guidelines on what they should bring. But giving them the power to choose helps build up their confidence as avid travelers. 

Here are our kid-focused carry-on choices for the best backpack for travel with kids.

1. Deuter Junior Kids Backpack

This Deuter kids backpack is really fit more for younger kids, as the top part of the shoulder straps are more narrowly spaced. It’s ideal for smaller necks and shoulders. So I’d say it’s the best backpack for travel with a toddler, especially if you want your toddler to carry their own bag.

The bag holds 18 liters, and is a cinch close top-loading backpack. Because it's a cinch close type of backpack, it’s a bit difficult to keep everything organized. Items just get thrown into the bag and packing efficiently becomes a challenge.

There’s the main compartment, plus two open pockets on the side for holding water bottles or small items. Additionally there’s a zipper pouch in the front, also good for holding small items. Again, if your kid is a toddler, this is an option for the best backpack for travel with kids.

Buy your Deuter Junior Kid's Backpack here on Amazon.

2. Osprey Jet 18 Kid's Hiking Backpack

When it comes to available carry-on options for older kids, the Osprey Jet 18 kids hiking backpack can also be considered the best backpack for travel with kids. It’s similar to the Deuter kids backpack, but the straps fit better for kids who are 8 or older, especially around the neck and shoulders. We love Osprey (as you'll see in this post) because of their lifetime warranty.

The bag is top-loading, and has a cinch close, much like the Deuter kids backpack. So you’ll still come across the same issue of everything getting thrown into the bag haphazardly. While we haven't used the Osprey Jet 18 for our own family, friends of ours have. You can see their Osprey Jet 18 review here .

Like the Deuter Junior, the Osprey Jet 18 has pockets on the side for a water bottle or small items. The carrying capacity is 18 liters. Again, it’s really meant for holding their devices, some toys, and maybe a couple of books. 

Get the Osprey Jet 18 kids backpack on Amazon or directly on the Osprey website .

3. Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack

Another bag to consider is the Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack. Though not specifically designed for kids, this bag is small enough for kids to use as a backpack. We actually use this backpack for our own kids’ carry-ons.

The Osprey Daylite Plus bag holds up to 20 liters. Besides the top-loading main pocket, with a zipper close and not a cinch close, this backpack also has two front pockets and two mesh side pockets. There is also a shove-it pocket, where you can stash a sweater or a kid’s stuffed animal.

The mesh-covered back panel provides well-needed support and airflow, and the size is small enough for our kids to carry on their own. For kids carry-on bags, this is our pick for the best backpack for travel with kids.

Buy the Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack on Amazon or directly on the Osprey website for your next trip.

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Best backpack for travel with kids: adult carry-ons

As for adult carry-ons, my main advice in picking the best backpack for travel with kids is to go with the best fit for your body. My husband and I have quite different body shapes. That means we prefer vastly different backpacks and styles for travel.

As parents who work, though, we do both prefer backpacks with plenty of pockets and organizational options. The bags we’ve highlighted below all have good organizational features, which makes accessing items relatively easy. 

Here are our personal picks for the best backpack for travel with kids.

4. The North Face Surge

During our first two years of travel, I used The North Face Surge backpack for my carry-on. It’s great because it had a variety of compartments to help keep my things organized. In my opinion, it’s the best North Face backpack for travel.

In the main top-loading zipper close compartment, there’s a separate laptop sleeve for a 14” laptop. And there are four additional zipper pockets for storing items. Plus, there are two side mesh pockets for water bottles. For moms who have to carry a lot of things, this is the best backpack for travel with kids because it makes things easily accessible and easy to organize. And for parents of babies, it can also serve as a great diaper bag!

In terms of comfort, this backpack is extremely comfortable to use because of the padded mesh back and lumbar panel.There’s also a sternum strap and waist strap to take some pressure off the shoulders. The North Face Surge backpack holds 31 liters, and the bag itself is fairly light. 

You can buy The North Face Surge backpack on Amazon or through the REI website .

5. Thule Landmark 40L

Even though I spent the first two years of our travels using the North Face Surge backpack, these days I travel with the Thule Landmark. 

Because of my work, I now have to carry two laptops (one for personal and one for work). So the Thule travel backpack, which has a carrying capacity of 40 liters, is my new go-to for the best backpack for travel with kids. My husband likes using it too!

The Thule Landmark travel pack is a front loading backpack, with a zipper that opens into a large compartment, giving easy access to all my things. There is a hard case zipper compartment at the top that’s ideal for holding sunglasses or things you don’t want to get crushed. There’s also one side pocket for carrying a water bottle. On the other side is a zipper sleeve pocket that has room for a small laptop and documents.

Buy the Thule Landmark 40L backpack for women and men here on Amazon.

6. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

While I prefer backpacks with a lot of outside pockets, my husband prefers a more minimalist style of backpack. And in our opinion, the best minimalist backpack for travel is the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. 

For the sake of this Cotopaxi Allpa 35L review, I wanted to quickly highlight some of the best features of the bag. Despite the sleek, minimalist design, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L actually has a lot of storage options. It’s panel loading, and opens into two main compartments, subdivided into smaller compartments. This makes organizing your things fairly easy.

As the name suggests, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can hold up to 35 liters, which means you can use it for either a large carry-on, like we do, or a small checked bag.

We like Cotopaxi bags because of their style. And for my husband, it’s also a comfortable bag to carry. And since we try not to carry too many things as we travel around the world, it’s my husband’s top pick for the best backpack for minimalist travel.

Buy your Cotopaxi Allpa 35L backpack directly on the Cotopaxi website or on Amazon .

Best backpack for travel with kids: checked bags for long-term travel

For the first two years of our travels, we carried big hiking backpacks for our checked bags. After lugging those around along with our carry-ons strapped to our fronts, we realized it was better for our backs to get wheeled backpacks for our checked bags.

These days, all four of us have a wheeled backpack that we check during flights. These bags hold our clothes, as well as extra shoes and other personal items. On the topic of checked bags, here are our picks for the best backpack for travel with kids.

7. Osprey Sojourn 80L

Our pick for the best roller backpack for travel has to be the Osprey Sojourn travel bags. Though technically a backpack, we use it primarily as a roller bag.

The Osprey Sojourn is a front loading 80 liter bag, with one main compartment that you load like a suitcase. There are two zipper pockets on the inside of the front panel, and there are also two inner zipper pockets along the sides. The top of the bag also has an outer zipper.

Since this is a roller backpack, there’s a handle that comes up. But if need be, you can also attach the straps and carry it on your back if you happen to be trekking through some muddy ground or bumpy surfaces.

What we like best about the Osprey Sojourn is its simple, yet durable design. The whole bag feels sturdy, including the wheels. We know that this bag will last through multiple flights, bus rides, train rides, and everything in between. And the front loading aspect makes it easy to access things from our bag when we need to. Definitely one of our picks for the best backpack for travel with kids!

You can buy the Osprey Sojourn on Amazon or directly from the Osprey website .

8. Osprey Fairview Wheeled 36

During our first few years of full time travel, we carried our kids’ clothes in our checked bags. This made for some heavy backpacks! 

Now that our kids have grown bigger, they’re now able to bring their own checked bags. For one of our kids checked bags, we like using the Osprey Fairview 36 liter wheeled backpacks. These are one of the best Osprey backpacks to use for travel, in my opinion.

Although these backpacks are technically for adults, they are small enough for kids to maneuver. They have a handle that extends, so you can pull it behind you. But if you need to carry it like a backpack, there are straps that you can use. It's a good versatile option for the best backpacks for travel with kids.

Buy this Fairview 36L Osprey backpack for travel on the Osprey website or on Amazon .

9. Osprey Farpoint Wheeled 36

Another Osprey backpack for travel that we use is the Osprey Farpoint 36 liter backpack. Like the Fairview, this is technically for adults, but we think they’re the perfect size for kids’ checked bags.

The Osprey Farpoint 36L has the same features as the Fairview, including wheels and backpack straps. In fact, the two styles are almost identical. The Fairview is designed more to fit women, while the Farpoint is designed for men. But if you’re using it mainly as a wheeled checked bag, there’s no difference. Both backpacks are some of the best Osprey backpacks we’ve used for travel with kids.

Buy your Farpoint 36L Osprey backpack for travel on the Osprey website or on Amazon .

Curious about the worldschooling lifestyle? Read my posts here .

What to look for in the best backpack for travel with kids

When choosing the best backpack for travel with kids, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, like any travel gear you buy, make sure you choose bags that are durable and high quality. Second, pay attention to the volume and storage capacity of the bag.

You also want to consider the type of travel you’ll be doing. And make sure you choose a bag that feels good on your body.

Not all bags are created equal. And if you’re going to be investing money into a backpack, you want to be certain you’re choosing wisely. Here are a few tips for picking the best backpack for travel with kids.

Go with bags that are durable and high quality

In the past, I used to just buy backpacks that were cheap. But now that I travel full-time, finding a backpack that will last overrides my desire to save money.

When choosing the best backpack for travel with kids, look for bags made with durable material. Nylon and polyester can be quite durable if they’re thick enough, as is canvas. Check the thickness of the material, and also look at the size of the zippers and clasps.

Similar to durability, make sure that the quality of the bags are high. Take a look at the stitching. Examine how the bags are designed. And again, check the feel of the fabric. 

Buying a bag that’s durable and high quality will ensure that it will last for many trips with your kids. This will make your travels much more sustainable as well since you’re not constantly buying new backpacks.

Pay attention to volume and storage capacity

Two other things to look at are the volume and storage capacity of the backpack. In terms of volume, this really depends on your preference. I suggest looking for backpacks that offer more than 16 liters of volume for carry-ons and more than 30 liters of volume for checked bags. 

In terms of storage capacity, I personally prefer backpacks with plenty of pockets rather than one giant pocket. That helps me keep all my must have travel items organized and easily accessible.

However keep in mind your and your kids’ ability to carry weight. You can buy a 70 liter backpack, but if you have a bad back, it may not be the best backpack for travel with kids for your particular situation. In that case, it might be better to find a similar sized backpack with wheels.

Additionally, a 19 liter backpack may be a good size for your kids. But you might want to consider what you put into the backpack to make sure it doesn’t become too heavy for them.

Consider the type of travel you’ll be doing

We prefer using backpacks versus suitcases for travel because we never know what type of travel situation we’ll find ourselves in. We could be engaging in tropical activities in Puerto Princesa , Philippines, or taking a city break in Paris , France. Having a backpack means you don’t have to worry about the terrain too much.

With that said, because we do long term travel, that means we do need to check some of our backpacks. That’s why we also like having wheeled backpacks. They allow us to roll our checked backpacks around instead of carrying all that weight on our backs. During our stint in England with kids , for example, having a rolling wheeled backpack was great for moving old city streets.

Think about the type of travel you plan on doing, and take that into account when deciding your family’s best backpack for travel with kids.

Choose the best backpack for travel with kids that feels good for you

The best way to find the best backpack for travel with kids is to try a few backpacks on and see what feels good for you. If you’re ordering your backpack through Amazon, they generally have a generous return policy which allows you to return items you don’t want. 

Consider what feels good on your shoulders, on your back, and how the weight is distributed across your body. Every person is built differently, so a backpack that feels right on one person may not necessarily feel good on another person. This is why my husband, kids, and I all travel with different backpacks.

Take some time to try on a few backpacks to see what feels best for you and your kids. Here are a few backpack suggestions to get you started.

Read more posts about the travel essentials we like to bring with us.

Get prepared for any emergency with the insurance made for digital nomads!

Taking time to find your best backpack for travel with kids

When you’re a full-time traveling family like us, you want to invest some time and money in finding the best backpack to travel with kids. Finding a brand and style that fits your family’s needs and travel style is key.

Even if you’re not planning to travel full-time, investing into a good backpack is still helpful. It will save you money in the long run, and save you discomfort and back pain.

Hopefully our list of the best backpack for travel with kids will be helpful in your backpack shopping. Do you have a favorite backpack? Share it with me in the comments!

Need packing advice? Read these posts:

9 Best Essential Travel Items For Families

Why We Love Packing Cubes for Family Travel

3 Reasons Why GRAYL Is The Best Portable Water Filter For Travel

Are you preparing for a family gap year? Get my ebook, Hey Kids, Let's Go Travel! for useful advice and tools for planning your trip.

Need help thinking through how to budget for a family trip? My  Travel Budget Worksheet  is just the tool you need! Click  here  to receive your free copy by signing up for my newsletter.

Want to connect with me on social media? Find me on Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest , and Twitter. And for those of you who are dedicated to traveling more responsibly, sustainably, and ethically, join over 200 like-minded families on my Facebook group, Responsible Family Travel .

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Sharing The Load: The Best Kids’ Travel Backpacks

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Last Updated on April 26, 2022 by Ariana Svenson

If you travel as a family, then at some point it will make complete sense to invest in some sort of kids’ travel bag.  Buying your child their very own carry-on not only gives them a feeling of independence – but it also helps to spread the luggage load.  This guide to the best kids’ travel backpacks explains the advantages of travel backpacks for kids.  I also outline the types of kids’ travel bags, helping you to make an informed choice.

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we would earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. More info in my disclaimer.

In a Hurry? The Best Kids’ Travel Backpacks

• Best Small travel backpack – Fjallraven Mini
• Best Toddler travel backpack – Deuter Kikki
• Best Kids’ travel backpack – Camelbak Scout
• Best Youth travel backpack – Fjallraven Classic
• Best Portable backpack – Eco Chic foldable

Amazon Australia

• Best Toddler travel backpack – Skip Hop Zoo
• Best Disney travel backpack – Mickey Mouse
• Best Waterproof travel backpack – Trunki kids
• Best Youth travel backpack – Champion

Is Your Child Ready For Their Own Travel Backpack?

Although Little Miss had a roll-along suitcase when she was smaller, I do prefer to use a kids’ backpack for travel.  Simply because we find it easier to transport.  Especially when the children carry their own bags!  So at what age can you expect them to carry their own kids carry on bag?  I asked about this on social media and the answers varied, with parents saying their children could use their own backpack anywhere between the ages of three and six.  In our experience, our daughter could manage her own bag aged five and was very confident in doing so by the time she was six.

You do know your own child best, so follow your intuition.  You can also try it out on a much smaller scale.  Instead of waiting until you next take a flight, give your child a small backpack to carry when you go to the park or on a shopping trip.  If they can manage to carry the bag whenever it is practical to do so, then they are probably ready for a kids’ travel backpacks of their own.

Many kids love to carry their own bags – it gives them a sense of independence and responsibility.  Often, they love to do what their parents or any older siblings do, too.  If you buy them their own backpack before they are ready, though, bear in mind that this may result in you having an additional bag to carry.  For this reason, the best kids’ travel backpack is definitely one they can carry themselves.

If your child is aged under seven and you think they may easily tire of carrying their own backpack, then another option to consider is the type of foldable bags that open out into a backpack.  This way they can carry the bag themselves, but if it comes to you taking the load then the bag can be folded away into itself.  This backpack and its belongings can then packed into your own carry-on instead.  This means one less bag for you to hold – particularly important if you might end up carrying your child as well as all the luggage.

The Advantages Of Using Kids’ Travel Backpacks

There are various advantages that come with purchasing a traveling backpack kids.  Read on to discover the reasons this might be a good idea for your family.

Anticipation

Children will generally be super excited about the prospect of a holiday.  Having their very own travel backpacks for kids will add to the sense of anticipation, and make them feel more involved in your family trip planning.

Independence

Childhood is all about – eventually – learning to be an adult.  Kids often have a strong sense of independence, even from as young an age as three.  Giving them their own kids backpack for travel helps to develop this, making them feel responsible and important.

It can also introduce the concept of making choices.  Seeing how much space they have for their toys or books acts as a clear, visual reminder that they cannot possibly pack everything.  Taking just a few toys that they are certain to play with is far more effective – and space-efficient – than packing far too many that won’t even be touched.  Don’t forget that while they are away other things may capture their attention – such as shells, rocks, and stones on the beach, balls in a soft play area, or the equipment of an adventure playground.

Organization

Take the best travel backpack for kids you can find and it’s not just the children who benefit.  It can also really help with organization.  Packing for each family member individually rather than the whole family together saves so much time when you arrive at your destination and start unpacking.  This is especially important if your trip involves moving on every few days rather than staying on one spot for a fortnight.

It also particularly applies to hand luggage.  If each person has their own snacks, drinks, extra layers, books, or toys, then it is much simpler to locate these when they are thirsty, cold, hungry, or bored.  Imagine searching through a jumble of everyone’s belongings just to find that one item you need!

The Best Kids’ Travel Backpacks By Age

To make your search for the right kids’ bag easier, I have separated our product suggestions as follows.  That is not to say that a specific kids’ backpack is not good for other age groups too.  Once more, this is where your intuition and knowing your one child inside out can come in very handy!  What will appeal to them?  Are they likely to manage – and carry – the bag themselves?  Is it the right size and shape?  Does it have enough space for their things?  A smaller bag will be easier for them to carry but will limit the amount of room they have for their belongings.

Toddler Bags The smallest bags are listed here, as well as those which should particularly appeal to the youngest, pre-school age group.

Kids’ Bags The bags listed in this category tend to be a little larger, and may also feature designs that will be attractive to young school-age children.

What To Look For In A Kids’ Travel Backpack

The first step in purchasing the best travel backpack for kids is deciding exactly what to look for.  A good starting point here is to think about your own experience.  What has made the backpacks you have used more practical?  Which ones have been easier to pack, or more comfortable to carry?  Which features are most important to you?  Here are some suggestions.

Firstly, will the backpack be the right size for your child?  The clue is in the name – a backpack should fit snugly against their spine, thus distributing the weight across the body evenly.  To get a better idea of what will fit, you may like to measure the length of their torso and compare this with product specifications.

What The Backpack Is For

Why are you looking for a travel backpack? Kids’ bags can be used as a carry-on when flying, a weekend bag to hold everything they need for a few days away, or even as a school bag.  If you would like them to use the bag for school too, then they will need a sturdy, high-quality bag that’s is robust enough for daily use.  They may also use it for a certain activity, such as a weekly dance, sports, or swimming class.

The capacity of the chosen children’s backpack will determine how much they can carry in it.  How large a capacity they can realistically cope with carrying will depend upon their age and size.  A toddler will be able to carry less than a child who is over five but under ten.  For the latter age group, a capacity of around 12 to 20 liters is about right.  A child of around ten or older should be able to manage over 20 liters, while teens or adults should manage a bigger bag with a larger luggage capacity.

Different Types Of Kids Luggage: Definitions

Before moving to the best kids’ travel backpacks, let us briefly consider the various types of kids’ luggage you can buy.

Kids’ Travel Backpacks

A backpack sits behind the back so that the weight of the back and its contents is evenly spread across the spine, shoulders, and hips of the wearer.  A good travel backpack should be comfortable to wear and carry, even for slightly longer periods of time.

Kids’ Roll-On/Ride Toys (For Toddlers)

Rolling bags for kids tend to have hard shells, like a suitcase.  The wheeled design means that children can ride along on them, which can be great fun for a while.  These bags are less flexible, however, and the packing space is thus very rigid.  They can also be a pain to carry when that task falls back to the grown-ups!

Kids’ Carry On Luggage

A children’s carry on can be defined as any bag that fits within an airline’s cabin luggage restrictions.  This does vary, so do check before you travel.  Manufacturers will also often mention this within their product specifications.  A carry-on can thus be any smaller backpack, suitcase, or other kinds of bags – as long as it fits the airline criteria.

Kids’ Hiking Backpack

Children’s hiking backpacks are often among the best travel backpacks for kids.  A hiking backpack for kids can be a great choice, as such bags are designed for continued use.  They are thus among the most practical, lightweight, and comfortable bags around.

Kids Suitcases

You can buy suitcases for kids, too.  Like the roll-on type, these have a hard shell and are more rigid.  As they require more control than backpacks, they are not as suitable for younger children.  Not least because the parents will probably end up bearing the load once again!

Kids’ Toddler Carriers

Finally, just a brief mention of this one to clarify just what it is.  A toddler carrier is not the same as a toddler backpack.  The former is meant for transporting the child – a little like a more rigid version of a baby sling – while the latter is designed for kids to use for packing and carrying their own luggage.

The Best Kids’ Travel Backpack For School

Don’t forget that your kids could use their travel backpacks for school.  If you invest in a good quality, strong travel backpack for your child, there’s no reason why the bag would not work as both a travel pack and a school or sports bag.

The 10 Best Kids Travel Backpacks

Toddler bags.

Deuter Kikki

An adorable design makes this a must for those with younger children – who could resist carrying that cute little creature around?  Available in various shades of green, pink, blue, and red, the Kikki is an 8-liter daypack suitable from age 3.  Padded shoulder straps and a chest strap make it comfortable for little ones to carry, while the bright, eye-catching design makes it easy to spot across the park or playground.  We consider this the best backpack for traveling with toddlers.

• Super cute design
• Comfortable to carry
• Will be outgrown during later years

See the Deuter Kikki backpack for kids here .

Wildkin Toddler Backpack

Best For – Budget buy toddler backpack.

The award-winning travel backpack for toddlers from Wildkin is ideal for travel as well as kindergarten, daycare, or nursery use.  There is a range of appealing designs and colors, so you’re bound to find one that your preschooler loves.  It has a food-safe, insulated front compartment and water bottle pocket for carrying snacks and drinks.

Being smaller and lighter than other options here also means your little one is more likely to carry the load themselves.  This is one of the best backpacks for toddlers to carry themselves.

• Great value for money
• Food safe & water bottle pockets
• Limited capacity

See the Wildkin toddler backpack for boys here.

Vaschy Pre-Schooler Backpack

Best For – Plenty of appealing designs.

  This Vaschy backpack for toddlers and preschoolers has plenty of space for all their stuff, yet is lightweight enough for them to carry.  Being able to pick between 13 colors and patterns also means they’ll want to take responsibility for the bag they love.

This small backpack for children has been designed with little fingers in mind, including easy-to-grip zip pulls.  A water bottle pocket and separate front panel pocket are useful, while back padding ensures a comfortable great fit.

• Front & side pockets
• Smooth zips & padded back
• Not as ergonomic as outdoor brands

See the Vaschy Pre-Schooler Backpack here. 

Disney Kids’ Backpack

Best For – Mickey, Minnie & movie fans.

  This Disney backpack from Simple Modern is ideal for younger kids.  It’s highly rated and comes in a choice of 13 designs, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Moana, Cars, Toy Story, Monsters Inc., Lion King, Frozen and Princess patterns.

The officially licensed Disney daypack is also about practicality, and it has a great range of inner and outer storage pockets.  You can also pick between 7 and 12 liter sizes, and to ensure comfort it has a chest strap and adjustable, padded shoulder straps.  There is even a tablet sleeve inside, plus it has a water resistant finish to help protect the contents from rain.

• 7 or 12 liter sizes
• 13 Disney & movie designs
• Lots of pockets plus tablet sleeve
• 7 liter size very small

See the Disney children’s backpack here.

Camelback Scout

Best For – Proper outdoor kids’ backpack.

Specially designed for kids, the Camelback Scout is suitable for various age groups – from pre-schoolers up to older children.  A 1.5-liter water reservoir comes with it, keeping kids hydrated whether they’re flying, exploring the city, or hiking the trails.  Safety features include reflective accents and a safety whistle.  This Camelback backpack comes in a cheery red and blue design that should please everyone.

• Water reservoir included
• Bright colors & reflective accents
• Daisy chain, loop & safety whistle
• Only one color option

See the Camelback Scout children’s backpack here.

Deuter Junior

Best For – Perfect size for most uses.

This one is also designed especially for young ones – namely school-age kids.  In fact, this one is described as both a school and hiking backpack, making this a great all-rounder.  The color options are attractive, yet subtle enough for older kids too.  Deuter says this is suitable for ages five plus, and it has an impressive 18-liter capacity.  Ergonomic shoulder straps, Deuter’s Airstripes back system, and plenty of mesh and zipped pockets make this a very practical pack.

• Leading outdoor brand
• Chest straps & grab handle
• Adjustable, padded shoulder straps
• Not the most visible backpack

See the Deuter Junior backpack for children here.

Everest Junior

Best For – Overall value for money.

The Everest Junior comes from a company with over three decades of experience in supplying outdoor products.  A key selling point of this one is how lightweight and compact it is, making it easy for kids to carry their own load.

A bright orange color also means it’s simple to spot your kids if they start to stray, and there are useful mesh side pockets plus a zippered front compartment.  The fabric is water repellent and durable, and this one will also last longer as kids are less likely to outgrow the more neutral design.

• Great value price
• Design suits kids of all ages
• Ultra lightweight & compact
• Plain looks

See the Everest Junior backpack for kids here.

Puma Lunchbox Combo

Best For – Doing double duty as a lunch bag.

If your child’s holidays and school days are all about the snacks, then how about this combo pack from Puma?  It comes complete with a lunch box and is available in a range of colors.  Even if you don’t plan to use it for storing food, the lunch box could be used instead to store smaller toys or to keep a specific set of items separate from other bag contents.  This cool Puma backpack is as perfect for travel as it is for sports or school.

• Durable build
• Includes lunch pack
• More sports than travel oriented

See the Puma Kids’ Lunch box and backpack combo here.

Older Kids’ Bags

Osprey Daylite

Best For – Long lasting kids’ backpack.

With a 13 liter capacity, the robust Osprey Daylite is a great all-rounder.  It comes in a comprehensive choice of color options, including two-tone and print designs.  There are some super useful sections here, including two stretch mesh side pockets that can be used for a water bottle and an interior sleeve that can protect a tablet or store a hydration reservoir.  The key clip can be useful, too.

• Reliable brand
• Chest strap with whistle
• Hydration pack compatible
• Limited storage compartments

See the Osprey Daylite kids’ backpack here.

Best For – Portable backpack to take anywhere.

Eco Chic shopping bags are big news.  They also make one of the best packable backpack options around.  Like the shopping bags, the daypack is super strong and folds up into its own pouch for portability.  There is a side water bottle pocket as well as internal and external pockets to help you stay organized.  The attractive designs appeal to all, and the size makes this ultra-lightweight foldable bag suitable for children and adults alike.

• Multiple designs
• Folds down into flat pouch
• Made from recycled plastic bottles
• Not child-specific

See the Eco Chic best packable daypack here.

Fjallraven Kanken Mini Classic Backpack

Best For – Stylish looks in a small package.

Although we list this in the section for bigger kids or even adults, this mini backpack suits all ages.  Its 7-liter capacity has enough space for all the essentials, yet it is compact enough for even small kids to carry.  A huge array of colors is available in this mini version of Fjallraven’s classic Kanken.  The company uses their own design of fabric to make this, which can be wiped clean and is water and dirt-resistant.  If 7 liters isn’t enough space for you, the 16-liter classic version is pretty much the same – but provides just over double the capacity.

• Twin top tote handles
• Reflective patch & name label
• On the smaller side

See the Fjallraven 7 liter mini classic backpack here.

Fjallraven Classic

Best for – A timeless design for kids or adults.

If you like the look of the Fjallraven Mini but want something bigger, we can also recommend its bigger sibling, the Classic.  This larger backpack for kids or adults comes in a dozen bright or more muted colors, and like the mini it also has those really handy twin tote handles to the top.

The finish of the tough fabric is designed to repel stains as well as water, and there is also a rain flap to prevent rain from entering the main compartment. With a 16 liter capacity, this design dating back to 1978 has retro chic and should see kids well into their teens and even adulthood.

• Integral seating pad
• Rain flap & water resistant fabric
• Higher price range

See the Fjallraven Classic here. 

The Best Kids’ Travel Backpacks Comparison Table

Click the name of each one to see the current prices on Amazon.

Kids’ Travel Bags and Backpacks Australia

Being an Australian blogging family, we love to share our uniquely Aussie insight into the great products we find here in Australia.  Of course there are a lot of international brands you can buy easily – such as Deuter and Fjallraven.  But then sometimes you are looking for the likes of kids’ suitcases in Australia or kids’ backpacks in Australia that will ship quickly – and be easy to return if necessary.  This section therefore lists products that are dispatched direct to you from Amazon Australia!

Toddler Backpacks Australia

Skip Hop Zoo kids’ Day Backpacks Australia

If you’re looking for the best travel backpacks for toddlers in Australia, this one is super cute and there are lots of options to choose from.  At the time of writing it could also be shipped to arrive the very next day (subject to availability).

One of the best features is the choice of super cute designs.  The options include owl, bunny, unicorn, butterfly, giraffe, bee, monkey and ladybird backpacks.  Whichever you pick, these small backpacks for toddlers available in Australia have a mesh water bottle pocket, an insulated snack pouch and an interiors that’s easy to clean.

See the best backpacks in Australia for toddlers here

Disney Backpacks Australia

Disney Mickey Mouse Kids’ Travel Bags Australia

We have to admit – it’s not easy to find any Disney luggage in Australia that isn’t shipped from overseas.  However, we do have a solution if you can’t wait for it to come from the US.  It’s described as a nappy bag, but looks and feels just like any regular kids’ backpack (once you remove the included changing pad).

What’s great about this one is the unisex print that will appeal to both younger and older kids.  As it was designed as a nappy bag, there are lots of useful organizational pockets too.  The red lining looks cool too.

See the best kids’ Disney backpack in Australia here

Kids’ Backpacks Australia

Trunki Kids’ Waterproof Gym and Swim Backpack

Wow was my reaction when stumbling upon this kids’ backpack available for shipping from Australia!  It’s from a leading luggage brand and is ideal for sports use or when around water.

The designs are so appealing, with options for children of various ages.  The designs include pink, blue or orange fish, a red lobster, a green frog, a purple octopus, a yellow pufferfish and a cool grey shark. With a roll top, this backpack can be used as a dry bag and has a padded back and straps for comfort.  There’s a Trunki ID label too.

See some of the best travel backpacks in Australia here

Champion Youth Multi-Purp ose Kids’ Backpack

For older kids, this Champion backpack is ideal.  It comes in plain black so it won’t show the dirt, or there are the more colorful options of blue or pink – as well as one with a logo design front pocket.

Inside there is a laptop or tablet sleeve, while on the outside the front zipped pocket is divided for simple organization of small items.  There are padded shoulder straps and a grab handle, plus a quilted back panel and mesh water bottle pocket.

See this Champion kids’ backpack in Australia here

My Top Tip – The Best Kids’ Travel Backpacks

As I briefly touched on earlier, packable backpacks are awesome when traveling with kids.  The main bonus of this type of packable daypack is that it can be packed and used as required.  If your child tires, you can fold down the bag and place it and the contents into your own hand luggage.  This means one less bag for you to carry.  If you are out and about with your kids and need to carry one, this kind of foldable daypack also leaves your hands free to get on with daily activities.

Imagine you’re away and exploring a busy city with two children, for example.  Using a packable backpack means your hands are free to guide little ones across the road.  You could also pack a picnic to eat in the park, then simply fold the bag away when you’re done.  If you’re going shopping, the bag can be carried to the store easily then used to carry goods home again.  If you’re packing for a trip away, tucking one into your luggage means you’ll always have a spare bag for bringing souvenirs home, visiting the beach, going swimming – or whatever your holiday brings

What To Pack In A Kids’ Travel Bag Or Carry On

So what are those must-have hand luggage essentials for kids?  Here is a guide to what we’ve found useful over years of travel as a family.

Water Bottle It’s important for every member of the family to stay hydrated when flying.  Using a refillable water bottle means you can contribute to reducing plastic waste.  As any water bottle must be empty when taking an international flight, taking this type is far more practical too.  Make sure you look for a non-spill type, so no-one gets wet!

Favorite Toy Or Comforter This is surely the top of the list when wondering what to bring when flying with a toddler.  After all, you know best that they won’t go anywhere without their favorite comforter or cuddly toy. Especially when it comes to bedtime!

Activities Boredom is one of the biggest potential problems when it comes to traveling with children. So your list of what to bring on a plane for a toddler should include something to keep them occupied.  See the section below for advice more on this.

Change Of Clothes A change of clothes is one of the essentials regarding what to pack in a carry on bag for kids. Accidents do happen, after all!  Simple clothing like a t-shirt and leggings plus underwear and socks is best.  These can be rolled into a small bundle and stashed into the bag for emergencies.

Spare Socks A spare pair of socks is a must when we fly.  That way the kids can wander around the plane while their feet are warm and protected.  Having a spare set means you can always change to a fresh pair just before you arrive if the socks get dirty or sticky.

Inflatable Pillow A blow-up pillow can make flying much more comfortable and takes up so little space.  If nothing else, it should increase the chances of them taking a nap – and you get some peace.

Tissues And Wet Wipes One of my top packing tips for flying with kids – don’t forget the wipes.  A pack of dry tissues, too.  That way they can be responsible for cleaning their own faces and hands, as well as wiping up any spills.

Healthy Snacks The easiest items for flying are those snacks that kids can open and eat independently.  As well as those which are least likely to cause too much mess – such as dried fruit, mini cheeses, and plain biscuits or crackers.

Lollipops They’re not the healthiest snack, but we take lollipops on board for a different reason.  Sucking a lollipop while the aircraft makes its final approach takes the pressure off little ears at the crucial moment – and it distracts them at the same time, too.  Any resulting sugar high should soon wear off once they delight in running around, finally free from the confined space of the cabin.

A Stainless Steel Straw Reusable straws are a great idea – not least because plastic straws are now banned in some places.  Even where they are permitted, companies have often made the switch to paper straws anyway, in the interests of the environment.  Stainless steel straws are much more pleasant and practical to use than paper as they don’t soften and bend, and they can be repurposed time and time again.

Airplane Activities For Kids

One of the keys to having a successful, harmonious flight with kids is keeping them occupied.  While there is often in-flight entertainment delivered via screens, these may not be present when flying on budget airlines.  There is only so much screen time anyone can take, anyway – and even modern technology has been known to fail.  So make sure you have plenty of things to keep the children occupied.  Some great posts about airplane activities for kids can be accessed via the following links.

Short on ideas?  Then check out this comprehensive list of 21 Awesome Airplane Activities For Kids .  These are amazing things for kids to do during the flight without a screen in sight!

If you’re traveling with a toddler or two, you’ll know only too well how they need to be occupied 24/7.  For creative ideas, make sure to read this dedicated post  – All About Brilliant Toddler Plane Activities .

Are your children younger?  A baby or one year old can actually be a little easier to occupy than a toddler or older child.  Check out this post for some simple ideas for the Best Travel Toys For A 1-Year-Old .

The Verdict – Sharing The Load: The Best Kids’ Travel Backpacks

As you can see, the best kids travel backpacks do vary in what they offer in terms of style, color, capacity, and features.  We have only listed children’s daypacks here that score an average of over 4.5 stars on Amazon at the time of writing, so you can be confident of buying a high-quality product.  Whether it’s a tiny toddler pack, an all-purpose bag for school as well as travel, or a larger backpack that will see them into adulthood, we hope this guide helps you all to have happy, hassle-free travels.

If you enjoyed this guide to the best travel backpack for kids, why not take a look at our guides to the Top Backpacks for Moms , the Best Hiking Carriers for Babies and Toddlers and finding a Great Mom Bag ?

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Best blog related to packaging for the travelers. Thank you for the best guidance.

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[…] and they also have control over when the goodies get eaten.  This could be included as part of a kids’ backpack for the journey, filled with snacks, toys, and other entertainment […]

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The Best Kids Backpacks For Travel (For Younger Kids) 2023

Wondering what is the best kids backpack for travel?

Choosing the right travel bags for your kids can be a bit of a minefield with so many options out there.

Having tried many different types of kids travel bags ourselves, we have settled on using kids backpacks for our travels.

Want to know why we prefer kids backpacks for travel over the other kids luggage options? OK, before we go into why we prefer kids backpacks, we wanted to share this cute video with you showing our toddler pushing his Trunki suitcase through the airport.

As you can see, it’s great fun but, he couldn’t carry it! Many airlines also now don’t accept a Trunki as your basic handluggage allowance.

This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something, we may earn a small commission but this is at no extra cost to you.

So, why do we prefer to use kids backpacks for our travels?

With so much choice out there, why do we prefer backpacks?

Well, backpacks are so much more versatile than other kids travel bags like Trunkis or rolling backpacks because they can be used as carry on luggage, school bags and hiking bags.

Backpacks make excellent travel bags for kids because they are lightweight and some will last for many years as the straps are adjustable and will grow with the child. I can even use our six-year-old son’s deuter backpack.

Most of the budget airlines charge you to put carry-on luggage in the overhead lockers.

We don’t know if other airlines will follow suit, but having a backpack instead of a hard shell suitcase for the kids (like a Trunki ) means that you can squash it under the seat in front and therefore won’t need to pay the additional charge.

If you do pay for the extra cabin bag, we have been using the carryon size from Level8 luggage which is lightweight and easy for the kids to push through the airport.

The kids can also wear them while moving through the airport and have their hands free which is important in case of stumbles or if you want to hold their hand.

Getting travel backpacks for the kids made them feel grown up, especially when they moved up to the backpacks that looked like adult hiking backpacks.

Having their own backpacks actually inspired them to become little hikers and allowed us to explore more of Banff National Park  which was a big plus point.

But the best thing about putting kids in charge of their own backpack? It forces them to limit what they take as they don’t want their bags to be too heavy so they just pack a few mini travel games and a teddy.

Hiker kids in Banff

Do the kids need their own travel bag?

Getting the kids to carry their own hand luggage is great, especially after years of lugging everything around yourself. BUT – realistically, there is a time and a place for them. Do you really need them?

If you want to maximise the hand luggage allowance when travelling with small kids, you won’t want one of the toddler backpacks using up that allowance.

Even though some of these mini backpacks for kids are tiny and don’t hold much, they will still count towards your carry-on allowance and you may not want to waste that allowance depending on the type of trip you are taking.

Sometimes we don’t check luggage in if the airline charges for it. We maximise our hand luggage allowance instead. See our tips on packing for a family holiday . We like to travel light.

When we travel with the kids , this means taking four bags of roughly 55cm x 25cm x 25cm (or 22 in x 18 in x 10 in) and usually around 8 to 10 kg. Just be aware that the dimensions change depending on the airline. You can check here for the cabin baggage policy of over 150 airlines .

These bags are too heavy for the kids to carry and they can’t have an additional smaller bag, so they occasionally don’t have their own travel bag.

What we will do though is use a couple of packing cubes to separate out their clothes in these carry on bags. Each packing cube is like a mini suitcase. Here are the packing cubes that we use.

Amazon basics

Using packing cubes in hand luggage

What type of kids backpacks are best for travelling?

There are so many kids backpacks out there but they are not all suited for travel. The backpacks that the kids use for school are great, but they’re not particularly lightweight. Especially if they have extra keyrings hanging off them! Most of the time, they are style over quality.

Travel backpacks are lightweight and ideally hard wearing. All of our recommendations are considered small enough for hand luggage (although always check with the airline you book with) and should be able to fit under the seat if necessary.

Things that we look for in a kids travel backpack are:

• they should be as lightweight as possible without compromising the fabric quality
• they should have good back ventilation (important in hot countries)
• they should have a separate side pocket for water bottles
• they should have a chest strap which will help little ones especially feel more balanced

As mentioned, most of the travel backpacks for kids that we recommend (after the toddler stage) look a lot like adult rucksacks.

Our youngest son loves his hiking backpack so much that he also uses it for school. Here it is on the school run…

Deuter kids backpack

And here it is in its proper setting :)

Best backpacks for toddlers

Toddler backpacks are just too cute. These backpacks are not for hiking – but are you going to go hiking with a toddler anyway? If you are, you will probably have some kind of toddler carrier.

Let’s face it, it’s sometimes hard enough to convince a toddler to cross the road let alone hike long distances with a backpack on.

These small backpacks are for getting through the airport and onto the plane. It starts to give them a sense of responsibility for their stuff.

The aim is to try to teach them not to take absolutely every toy possible with them. And they can’t because these backpacks are so mini, they don’t hold much.

Some of them have reins which are detachable. It was good to know that we could use them if we were somewhere busy when the kids were really little, like when we took the kids to London .

They’re so cute. You could even consider one as a gift for a kid who loves to travel .

Little Life – this is the original backpack with reins (and a grab handle) and is a Mother & Baby award winner. They have an utterly adorable range of mini backpacks from unicorns and fairies to dinosaurs and dragons . This is really more about the reins than a backpack as it only has a 2 litre capacity, but it’s great for getting kids used to wearing a backpack.

Skip Hop – more adorable animal characters to choose from with this range of kids backpacks with reins. Our kids had these from aged 2 at nursery. They were the perfect size for a change of clothes, a water bottle and a couple of small toys. There is a mesh side pocket and a chest strap.

We loved the Owl and the Butterfly .

Best kids backpacks for 3 to 5 years

Travel backpacks for kids in this age group start moving away from the cute, character toddler backpacks and getting into the slightly more grown up backpacks.

Jack Wolfskin –  the Jack Wolfskin kids’ backpack has an 11 liter capacity, wide shoulder straps and a strap that clips across the chest. There is a side pocket for a water bottle and another front pocket.

Osprey Daylite – the Osprey Daylite kids’ backpack has a grab handle at the top which has come in handy on busy streets. It has a 10 liter capacity, mesh pockets on either side, a padded and well-ventilated back and a chest strap and is made out of recycled nylon fabrics. Osprey backpacks are among the best on the market in every age category.

Deuter kids – the Deuter kids’ backpack is slightly in character mode but more grown up, this has an 8 litre capacity, side pockets, chest strap and reflective eyes.

Fjallraven mini – we love the eco-friendly aspect of this Fjallraven kids’ backpack . 7 liter capacity, front and side pockets, reflectors and a leather grab handle. It even has a fleece lined pocket on the top to store sunglasses.

Osprey daylite kids backpacks

Best kids backpacks for 5 to 8 years

This is the age that they start moving into big kid backpacks. While they have recently developed a major interest in Pokemon, Star Wars and Minecraft, we prefer them to save the character bags for school.

Our favorite kids backpacks for 5 to 8 years are:

Osprey Jet 12 –  The Osprey Jet 12 (or the Jet 18 for larger 8 year olds) is a slightly larger version of the Osprey Daylite. The Osprey backpacks for kids are fantastic quality. I still have an Osprey backpack that travelled around the world with me for 12 months, taking a good battering through Africa and India. They also come with a lifetime guarantee which is handy.

Deuter backpack – this slightly larger Deuter kids’ backpack has a 10 litre capacity, mesh side pockets and a chest strap. Deuter backpacks are a great alternative to Osprey.

Fjallraven Kanken backpack – the Fjallraven Kånken backpacks were designed in the 1970s in Sweden to help with back problems among kids and they have become incredibly popular. You can read more about Fjallraven backpacks here.

Quechua – if you are looking for a super cheap but decent backpack for kids, we recommend taking a look at Quechua 10L bag . You can’t beat it for value.

Deuter travel backpack for kids

Finally, if you want to maximise the hand luggage allowance and yet still have your small child in charge of their own case, you could try a backpack with wheels.

The Cabin Max is a good option. It obviously won’t work for going on hikes or for days out sightseeing though.

Cabin Max with bear – blue.

Cabin Max with bear – pink.

Happy Travels!

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Hi, i visit your site, your post is full of information. i want some best backpacks for my school kids. these are all the good backpacks. i read your post. so thanks for sharing this informative guide with us.

thanks for your comment. I’m glad you found it helpful.

What a great post on choosing a backpack for travel. All this information is very nice to keep it up. thanks

Thanks for your comment

Hi, i need the best-wheeled backpack for my next trip to the USA, but I need a bag so my question is which company rolling bag is best and has multiple storage pockets. thanks

Hi – if you are looking for a rolled backpack for a child, you could try Jansport or the Cabin Max.

this guide is useful to buy great backpack for kids thank you for your great recommendation

One of the first things to take care of the school bag is to keep it clean. Make sure that you properly clean the bag on a daily basis, removing all the clutter that you might have created during the day. Remove the pencil shavings, used papers, etc. from the bag and clean it with a wet cloth.

that is indeed a good tip

I love all the details that you go into with this article. There are so many factors like weather and fabric when choosing the right backpack. At some point I would like to walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain and will look at these tips when choosing my backpack.

Hello! Thank you for the complete information…all the packs that are listed in the above article are well and perfect size backpack for kids. I would try one for my kid too.

Hi, i visit your site, your post is full of information. i want some best backpacks for my school kids.

Thanks to you and your blog, I understood what we should check when we buy a bag.

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Best Kids Travel Backpack 2024

You’ve got your backpack sorted, but now you’re wondering what the best kids travel backpacks are.  By all means, the kids could use any old backpack they use at home, but as you know from your own experiences, backpacks for travel are designed a little differently and have specially designed compartments to make travel more convenient.

To help you choose the best travel backpack for kids, I have put together this guide covering everything you need to consider when purchasing kids travel bags.  This guide will look at the various features that make great children’s’ travel bags as well as compare some of the best travel bags for kids currently on the market.

Whether you are looking for a standard backpack, kids carry on luggage or even a kids rolling backpack; hopefully, after reading this guide, you will be closer to finding the perfect kids backpacking pack.

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer  here  for more information.

Page Contents

• 1 Best kids travel backpack 2024: North Face Youth Court Jester Backpack
• 2 Comparison chart for best travel backpack for kids 2024
• 3.1 Traditional backpack or a kids rolling backpack?
• 3.2 Size and weight – how heavy should a child’s backpack be?
• 3.3 Compartments
• 3.5 Carry handles 
• 3.6 Water-resistant
• 4.1 North Face Youth Court Jester Backpack
• 4.2 Osprey Porter 30 
• 4.3 Vaschy 3 Way Rolling Backpack
• 4.4 J World Rolling Backpack
• 4.5 Osprey Jet 12 L Kids Hiking Backpack
• 4.6 Osprey Jet 18
• 4.7 Deuter Op Trail
• 4.8 North Face Recon 30L
• 4.9 VASCHY Water Resistant Daypack
• 4.10 Outpost

>> Looking for something else?  We have guides on a range of luggage including: 1. Kid’s Ride On Luggage 2. Carry On Backpack 3. Wheeled Backpack 4. Kids Suitcases 5. Cross Body Bags

Best kids travel backpack 2024: North Face Youth Court Jester Backpack

Don’t have time to read the complete guide on kids travel backpacks ?  If you want my recommendation for the best kids travel backpack then I recommend the Youth Court Jester from Northface.  

The Youth Court Jester is lightweight, stylish and super comfortable for your child to wear. This bag has plenty of great storage and extra safety features and is great value. It could be used as a carry on travel bag as well as a daily backpack or hiking bag on your next family holiday.

Check out my full review on the North Face Youth Court Jester Backpack below or click here for current prices.

Comparison chart for best travel backpack for kids 2024

Check below for a quick overview of the various kids backpacking backpacks reviewed in this guide.

Things to consider when purchasing a kids backpacking pack

Just like when you purchased your backpack, to buy the perfect kids travel rucksack, various factors need to be considered.  Be sure to take into account the following factors:

Traditional backpack or a kids rolling backpack?

First up, what sort of backpack do you want? Your standard everyday backpack or a kids trolley bag?  – one that gives you the option of rolling it when need be?

A kids backpack with wheels is an excellent option for kids, as often full packs are heavy and so rolling makes it easier for them.  However a kid’s wheeled bag is slightly heavier than a standard backpack as it contains wheels, a frame and handle to wheel it.

When deciding on the type of backpack, consider if in reality, your child will be carrying their bag.  If the truth is that mum or dad will most likely be carrying it, then it’s best to opt for a standard pack rather than a rolling one.

Myla has a standard backpack (unfortunately the pack she has is no longer sold) and when she was younger, the reality was we mostly carry it for her when it was full (she carries it herself now).  The other reason we prefer a standard backpack is once we get to our destination, we empty all her things and use it as our day pack. This saves us having to bring another separate bag along with us.  

Size and weight – how heavy should a child’s backpack be?

When it comes to a child’s backpack, perhaps the most important thing is not only how heavy the pack is but how heavy it is when full.  You don’t want little growing bodies to be carrying more than what is safe for them.  Generally, it is accepted that children can carry around 10% to 20% of their body weight.  So keep this in mind when deciding which size pack to purchase.

This is only essential when it is likely that the child will carry their own packs.  If in reality, Mum or Dad will carry the child’s backpack, then the weight isn’t such a big issue.

When it comes to size and weight, you also need to consider whether you intend to check the bag or whether it will be used as kids hand luggage bags.  If you’re going to use the pack as kids cabin luggage, then you’re going to want to ensure it meets your airline’s size restrictions.

Compartments

I’m not overly concerned with the number of compartments as I like to use packing cubes and find this a far easier way to organise things rather than having multiple compartments ( click here for information on packing cubes ).  However, I think around two separate compartments are ideal, plus a side pocket for a water bottle. 

It’s essential that a backpack is comfortable for your child to wear and fits them properly, so ensure the bag has padded and adjustable straps.  Backpack straps are usually adjustable around the hips, the shoulders, and even across the chest to keep the shoulder straps in place regardless of body shape. 

Carry handles 

Like any bag, look for a backpack with additional carry handles. Top and side carry handles help load the bag in and out of overhead plane lockers as well as on buses, trains and taxis.  

Water-resistant

A water-resistant bag gives you extra protection when travelling in wet weather.  While water-resistant bags aren’t designed to be waterproof, they do give you that extra bit of time to seek shelter or pull out a rain cover without having your personal belongings get wet.  It also helps if kids accidentally spill their drinks over their bags.

Best kids backpacking backpacks 2024 reviews

Below I have listed my top picks for the best kids backpack currently available.

North Face Youth Court Jester Backpack

Weighing in at only 410g, the North Face kids backpack is a super lightweight travel backpack for kids , in fact, one of the lightest in these reviews, making it the ideal travel backpack for kids.

This bag is packed with excellent storage options, including a large main compartment, a front bungee system for bulky items, an internal divider for extra organisation and two side water bottle pockets. This bag can keep everything neatly organised and easily accessible.

Made from recycled polyester and with a capacity of 24 litres, this bag is not only super comfortable to wear but also the perfect size for a small child. The youth-specific shoulder straps, foam back panel, easy-to-use sternum strap, and 360 degree reflective safety piping are all other great features that give this bag maximum comfort and convenience.

This backpack would be a great choice if you were looking for a pack that would be suitable for day trips on your holidays as well as kids cabin baggage.

Click here to check prices and to read more reviews.

Osprey Porter 30  

As you know, I travel with the Osprey Porter 46 which I just love, which is one of the reasons I’d highly recommend the Osprey Porter 30 as the best kids backpack .  Osprey makes such top quality packs, and this one is designed to be the perfect size for the young adventurer.

With a capacity of 30 litres, this is a great size kids’ cabin bag to store all your child’s belongings in.  For the perfect fit, this backpack includes fully adjustable padded straps including shoulder straps, hip straps and chest straps.  The hip straps are also removable if not required. 

This kids carryon bag has one main compartment with a front organiser storage pocket for easy access to those items you need frequently.  The main compartment includes a built-in laptop sleeve, and there are also side mesh pockets perfect for water bottles. 

Other great features of this pack include a pass through handle on the back to secure to your suitcase, a top handle for easy carrying as well as a padded side grab handles.

If you’re looking for a good quality backpack for your child that is also ideal to use as the family day pack while out then the Osprey Porter 30 is a natural choice.  It’s also the perfect size as children’s hand luggage bag.

Vaschy 3 Way Rolling Backpack

If your preference is for children’s carry on luggage with wheels , then make sure you check out the Vaschy Rolling backpack.   Not only can this children’s wheeled bag be pulled along behind them, but they can also wear it as a backpack. The five cute and playful designs of these bags make them so appealing to kids; they will never complain about having to carry their bag again! 

Being 16.5 inches and weighing only 1.4 kg, it isn’t too heavy so it is entirely manageable for your child, especially with the wheels!

Other great features of this best kids rolling backpack are the internal mesh zip pocket, an internal divider for books or ipads, padded front pocket, comfortable padded shoulder straps and the hideaway wheel cover with elastic to cover the wheels when not in use.

So if you are looking for the best rolling backpack for kids that can also be worn as a bag, the Vaschy is well worth considering.

Click here to check prices and to read more reviews

J World Rolling Backpack

The J World Rolling Backpack is another great option when it comes to kids carry on luggage with wheels, particularly given you can both wheel it or carry it on your back like a standard backpack.

This children’s carry on luggage with wheels is made from a durable 600D polyester water-resistant material, so everything inside is well protected if you get caught up in a light rain shower. 

Being an 18-inch case, there is plenty of room for your child’s belongings, and being 2.2 kg, it’s reasonably lightweight.  Plus if you choose to wear it as a backpack, the Air Mesh Cushion padded shoulder straps with a SLIP-IN system for added convenience make it comfortable to wear

Other great features of this kid’s rolling carry on luggage or day bag are the reflective tape for increased night visibility, a large main compartment, a front pocket organiser, a key fob, five pencil holders, two side pockets and a front zipper pocket.

Overall, this is a great travel backpack with wheels that would be a perfect choice for your child on your next family trip.

Click here to check prices and to read more reviews  

Osprey Jet 12 L Kids Hiking Backpack

The Osprey Jet 12L Kids Hiking Backpack   is a stylish and comfortable travel backpack that will keep all your child’s items tucked away safely on your next family holiday.

A great sized bag with a 12-litre capacity and weighing only 380g, you won’t ever have to worry about being weighed down by this backpack! If you plan on doing some hiking or long day trips on your next holiday, this bag could also double as your family’s day bag.  

Great features of this bag are the Airscape Backpanel with foam ridges for ventilation, reflective graphics, zippered panel access, stretch mesh side pockets, stretch front and harness pockets and sternum strap with emergency whistle.

This bag is suitable for children from 8 to 15 years, so it would not be ideal for a small child or toddler. If your child is over 15, they could move up to the adult size version of this backpack.

Osprey Jet 18

The Osprey Jet 18 is a great little backpacking bag that would be the perfect choice for your child’s very own travel backpack.  Although sharing the same name as the previous Osprey backpack – this is quite a different pack and offers plenty more space too.

Constructed from 400D nylon, the Osprey Jet 18 offers great durability, ensuring that it can withstand daily wear and tear while preventing rips from spreading and weighing just 515g.

This kids hiking backpack is designed with multiple pockets, including two stretch side mesh pockets, a front stretch mesh pocket, a small external zip pocket for valuables and an external hydration bladder sleeve. This variety of storage options ensures that users can keep their belongings organized and easily accessible.

The adjustable compression straps let you tighten the backpack, reducing its volume and minimising the movement of items inside. The pack features an open mesh back panel to allow for adequate airflow, an air mesh hip belt for stability, soft padded, seamless shoulder straps and the adjustable sternum strap even has a rescue whistle.

If you’re looking for a kids backpack that can be used for day hiking, air travel and everything in between, the Osprey Jet 18 is well worth a look.

Deuter Op Trail

The Deuter Op Trail 24 litre backpack is a great all-rounder backpack that would be suitable for a carry on bag for your child as well as doubling as a great day pack while on holiday.

A great feature of this pack is the Aircontact back system, which provides greater comfort thanks to its lightweight frame construction. This design keeps the weight of the load compact and close to the body’s centre of gravity and gives great airflow.

The Deuter Op Trail is designed for organisation, with details such as a carabiner clasp on the shoulder straps and multiple compartments, including side pockets and a front panel stash pocket. The main compartment is compatible with a 3L drinking system, ensuring kids stay hydrated during their adventures.

Constructed from highly durable 210D polyamide and 600D polyester with a PU coating, this backpack is built to withstand the rigours of travel and outdoor activities. The adjustable, contoured padded mesh shoulder straps and pull-forward mesh hip fins provide support and breathability for added comfort.

Other notable features include a built-in, stowaway, removable rain cover, hiking pole attachment system, and an SOS label for emergencies.

With its combination of practical features, durability, and comfort, the Deuter Op Trail 24L hiking pack is a fantastic choice for kids embarking on outdoor adventures or travels.

North Face Recon 30L

For slightly older children that don’t want anything too young looking, the light weight and neutral design of the North Face Recon 30L will definitely appeal.

This backpack has a laptop compartment and a padded tablet sleeve, which is great if you have kids with tablets, to keep them secure during travel. The bag also includes an external fleece lined pocket for valuables, two mesh side pockets for water bottles and an extendable front stash pocket that is perfect for helmets or raincoats.

The Northface Recom 30L backpack is designed with easily adjustable, padded shoulder straps, a padded top handle, a sternum strap for extra support and even a removable hip belt for when carrying larger loads.

Overall the Northface Recom backpack is a great choice for older kids looking for a stylish and functional bag to carry their belongings securely and comfortably.

VASCHY Water Resistant Daypack

If you are looking for a budget travel backpack for your child, then be sure to check out the Vaschy Lightweight Backpack .  

The Vaschy only weighs 360 grams and has a capacity of 20 litres, so there is plenty of room for all your child’s travel items in this bag. Most of your child’s things will go in the main top-loading zipper pocket, but there is also a smaller front pocket and two drink bottle pockets as well. The main zipper pocket also has a divider sleeve.

This backpack is water-resistant and comfortable to wear with the padded back and adjustable shoulder straps. This backpack can also be folded up very small, so if you needed to pack it into a suitcase to be used on day trips for your travel, it wouldn’t take much room in your main bag either.

Available in 8 different colours, this stylish, lightweight polyester bag would work as a great bag to keep all your child’s travel items safe on your next family holiday.

The Mountain Designs Outpost Backpac k is another excellent option if you are looking for a good travel backpack for a teenager who needs a bit of extra storage space and likes to explore the outdoors so needs something a little more durable.

With its PU coated 200D polyester fabric and YKK zippers, this backpack is designed to withstand everyday wear and tear, ensuring durability and longevity. The Inca Extreme also includes a stowaway waterproof rain cover concealed in a pocket, providing protection against unexpected weather conditions. This coupled with the 35L capacity makes it a great option for a hiking backpack for tweens and teens.

The backpack’s 3D mesh back panel has an air flow channel, allowing air to circulate freely between the wearer’s back and the backpack, ensuring optimal comfort and keeping the back cool and dry. Additionally, the chest/sternum strap helps distribute weight evenly and balance the pack for added support.

Other great features include a mesh front pocket, two mesh side pockets, a front panel hanging loop, safety whistle, hiking pole attachment loops and dual compression straps.

Featuring multiple pockets, the Outpost 35L Backpack allows teenagers to keep their valuables safe and organised. Weighing in at just 1.09 kg, this backpack is lightweight and convenient enough for everyday use.

  Disclaimer: Thrifty Family Travels is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and its partners. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. 

Affiliate advertising is used throughout this site. These affiliate ads allow me to earn a small commission on any purchases you may make but they do not incur any extra cost to you.

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The Best Travel Backpacks for Kids

Are you looking for the best travel backpack for kids? With so many different types of backpacks on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is best. We have a lot of experience in this department, so I’m going to share the features to look for when choosing the perfect travel backpack for your kids. 

I’ll share all the things we consider before making a purchase. I’ll also provide recommendations for the best backpack for kids to travel with. So, if you’re ready to find the perfect backpack for your kids to take on their next adventure, let’s get started!

Why should your kids bring their own backpacks on vacation

• It helps them get excited for the trip because they can pack some of their own items.
• It teaches them responsibility by having them take care of their own bag.
• Gives you extra packing space so you don’t have to fit everything in your bag.
• Its a great place to keep activities, toys, and even snacks.

There are so many great reasons why you should consider giving your kids a backpack on your travels. Now the question is: how do you pick the right one?

How to choose the perfect kids’ backpack 

What’s the difference between a regular school backpack and a good travel backpack? A lot! School backpacks don’t have to include everything your child needs for a week or more in one bag! Choosing the right backpack can make a big difference in how successful your trip is. Keep in mind, you don’t want to let your kid choose their own travel backpack without your direction on the things below. We suggest choosing a few that take these things into consideration and let kids choose their own backpack from the options we provide. Here are some things we consider when we choose travel backpacks with the best features for our kids.

The trick here is to find the back that maximizes the most space without being too big for your little one. When looking at the right bag for your child you want to make sure the top of the bag hits mid-shoulder and the bottom of the bag doesn’t go further than the bottom of their back to get the perfect size for them.

Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to travel backpacks. If your child ends up with a bag that is too big for them it will more than likely be uncomfortable and too heavy. More than likely that means you will end up carrying it for them, which is not a great option! 

There’s a fine line between having plenty of room and choosing a backpack that isn’t a great size for your child. You’ll want the backpack to have a large main compartment if your family is only traveling with a backpack for each person as their only luggage. The most important thing is that there is a roomy main compartment for all of their clothing, you can tuck the small things around the bulk of the clothing. In that case, the right size backpack for your kid’s travel pack might vary depending on the kind of trip you’re going on and if you plan on taking any other luggage. 

When looking at backpacks for your kids think about how heavy the bag is before you ever put anything in it. Most backpacks range from 6 to 10 pounds and possibly even less for kid versions. Find bags that are durable yet made of lightweight materials. You want to make sure your child is never carrying more than 15% of their body weight on their back. That’s a great way to end up having to carry your kids’ travel backpacks yourself. 

One of the things I look for when picking a travel backpack for my kids is the padding on the straps and back of the bag. Yes, we want to make sure we are picking lightweight bag, but not at the expense of comfort. Look for bags with shoulder pads on the straps because that will make the biggest impact on how comfortable the travel backpack is for your kids to carry. The backpack should also have adjustable shoulder straps for comfort and the right fitting for your kids. Bags with a chest strap is also a good option, especially for young kids who can’t seem to keep the straps on their little shoulders. A sternum strap is always a good idea and may be the best way to deal with that issue so you don’t end up having to carry bags for your younger children.

Your Childs backpack needs to be whale to withstand all the throwing, pulling, packing, and other travel strains you are going to put it through. Look for easy to clean materials that are reinforced. Extra points if you can throw the backpack in the washing machine as it can get super dirty after those exit icing vacations.

These are our top picks for the best travel backpacks for kids. These all offer high quality, durable material, and various sizes for your big and little kids. These are the most comfortable backpacks we’ve found for kids, which is one of the most important factors you need to consider!

Fjallraven Backpack

This bag is small but mighty. It probably won’t be your choice if you want to skip the luggage but its a great choice if you want your child to carry a bag for their small items, like personal items. It’s super lightweight and really durable. I love the top handle so you can easily grab it and go. This is also a great first backpack for kids who aren’t used to carrying a backpack.

Kane Kids Double Pocket

This is a great middle sized bag, not too big or too small, and can still fit a lot. This particular size is geared towards kids 3rd grade and up but they do carry smaller and larger versions on their site as well. This bag always has a ton of great reviews from parents about how well made they are. It is less than a pound in weight and has a lot of storage options with plenty of pockets. This is a great contender for your kids but it is a bit pricer than our other bag options.

Hershel Backpack – Youth

We brought this bag with us on our most recent Europe trip and we really liked it. What impressed me the most was how comfortable this bag was for my kids. The straps had a lot of padding. I just wish this bag had more compartments compared to some of the other backpacks we have tried, but it would still be an excellent option for some people. 

Flower Garden Large Kids Backpack

Water resistant and made from recycled water bottles. This was one of my girls first picks because they loved the design. I also loved that this bag has 2 side pockets. That really comes in handy when you are on the go. This bag also comes in two smaller sizes for younger kids.

Lightning Bolts Pink Large Kids Backpack

Similar to the backpack above this pack has a lot of great features for traveling. Its super spacious and has padded straps and honestly fits all the criteria we look for when picking a travel backpack. They even have the option for personalization if you are into that.

Tie-Dye Rolling Backpack

As my girls get older, and their travel backpacks get heavier, we are considering moving them to these rolling backpacks. Why rolling backpacks and not just a rolling luggage? A lot of airlines charge for carryon items but they give you a personal item for free. As a family of 5 it saves us so much money, especially when we are trying to get in  22 trips in one year .

Deluxe Book Pack

This bag claims to be indestructible and that is definitely something you want since traveling can be really tough on these backpacks. Its waterproof and can fit so much. This would be the perfect option for one of those long haul trips where you need to pack a lot.

Mackenzie Aqua Disney Princess Backpack

You probably recognize this backpack from our viral videos, this is the backpack we use the most for traveling. The durability, comfort, size, number of compartments, it has so much to offer. Honestly we keep coming back to it year after year because it gives us everything we need on our travels. 

Here are some other backpacks we love

If you liked this post check out the one I wrote about The 5 Best Travel Bags for my husband and I. 

or the month-long vacation the 5 of us took to Europe only bringing only a backpack each . 

Tip: Packing Cubes are life changing when it comes to packing small. Here’s some packing cubes for school backpacks.

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The best rolling backpacks for school, work & travel that eliminate back pain.

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Best Rolling Backpacks at a Glance

Are rolling backpacks good .

Rolling backpacks make transporting books and other essentials easy without carrying all the weight on your back. These bags have a roomy interior and are also perfect for traveling. Parents also love rolling bags since they help the kiddos get into school independently (they also have fun prints and designs). There are also picks on the market that are specially made for carrying your laptop and traveling.

Are There Disadvantages to a Rolling Backpack?

Even though rolling backpacks have multiple benefits, they do have some disadvantages. First, rolling backpacks can not easily go up and down stairs. You can lug them up and down staircases, but you risk breaking their handles and risking the bag ripping. Also, the wheels on rolling backpacks can get caught on rough terrain, such as uneven sidewalks, gravel, and grass, which can damage the wheels.

Are Rolling Backpacks Better for Back Pain?

The average backpack carries 25 to 30 pounds. That means you’re resting all that weight on your shoulders, which can lead to strains and aches in both children and adults. If you carry a backpack daily, consider alternatives like a rolling backpack. According to Orthopedic One this will reduce strain on your back and shoulders. For extra safety, “make sure the backpack is properly fitted to your body. Tighten the straps to keep the weight of the backpack across your back. This will ensure a proper weight distribution as opposed to the weight resting on your shoulders,” Orthopedic One added.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Kipling is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale. 

Kipling Gaze Large Rolling Backpack

Kipling’s Gaze Large Rolling Backpack is best for elementary middle school students, thanks to its cute and simple design that your preteen can decorate. The rolling backpack comes in three colors and offers multiple compartments to keep all of your essentials in one place. There are over three pockets: A main zip compartment, water bottle pockets, and a pull-up handle that rolls the bag. And if you don’t want to wheel it around, grab the straps to wear as a backpack. Dimensions: 8.25″ x 17.25″ x 12.25″ Capacity: 26 liters Weight: 4.37 lbs Pros: Tuck away backpack straps Water bottle pockets Cons: Expensive Limited colors

JanSport Driver 8 Rolling Backpack

JanSport is a pro when it comes to creating durable and versatile backpacks. This take on the classic backpack makes it easier than ever to tote your books, laptop, and more with one bag. The rolling backpack provides a 15-inch laptop sleeve to protect your computer, a telescopic handle, tuck-away shoulder straps, and tons of space inside. Dimensions: 21″ x 14″ x 10″ Capacity: 36 liters Weight: 4.2 ounces Pros: Trusted brand Durable Cons: Shorter handle

lvyH Kids Rolling Backpack

This adorable unicorn backpack will get little learners excited to go to school. Its fun design is functional and offers enough room space inside for a change of clothes, back, backpack, and more. The bag also has side pockets to hold water bottles. Shoppers report that it’s the “perfect” size for little ones and also praise how easy the backpack makes it for them to get into school independently. Dimensions: 11.41″ x 5.9″ x 15.7″ Capacity: 12 liters Weight: 2 lbs Pros: Multiple designs Lightweight Suitable for children under 5ft tall Cons: Not made for older children

Rockland Roadster Rolling 17″ Backpack

Even though this rolling backpack doesn’t have any interior compartments, there’s still ample room to transport your items. Plus, the exterior pockets have a built-in organizer, and there’s also a space for water bottles. Dimensions: 17″ x 13″ x 10″ Capacity: 36.2 liters Weight: 6 lbs Pros: Zippered front pockets with organizer Under $40 Cons: No Compartments or Pockets inside

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

This duffel backpack earns the title of “best for travel.” The bag is available in 10 colors ranging from neutrals to vibrant pinks, and it matches Calpak’s bestselling luggage sets . The pack is easy to maneuver through crowds and the airport and also converts into a backpack in a flash. Dimensions: 18″ x 12″ x 7.5″ Capacity: 26.5 liters Weight: 2.7 lbs Pros: Shoppers say it fits work items, clothes, and more Padded laptop pocket Includes detachable adjustable shoulder strap Cons: Bulky design

Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Gray Classic Camo Reflective Backpack

This camo backpack from Pottery Barn Kids is reflective, and it’s also on wheels! It includes a front panel pocket and two side pockets. The interior compartment keeps notes and other essentials safe and sound. The rolling backpack also comes with a shoulder strap and carrying handle. Dimensions: 11.5″ x 7″ x 15.5″ Capacity: 20 liters Weight : 1.75 lbs Pros: Multiple sizes available Can add monogram Cons: More expensive than other picks

Francine Collections Rolling Bag

If you’re always lugging a pile of things into your office, add this rolling bag to your cart immediately. Although it’s not technically a “backpack,” it has a modern tote design that keeps all of your daily things organized. The wheels give your shoulders a break when needed and easily maneuver without getting stuck on the way. Dimensions: 17.5″ x 8.5″ x 14.5″ Capacity: Holds up to a 17.3″ Laptop & 12″ Tablet Weight: 6.25 lbs Pros: Sleek look Crafted from vegan leather Cons: Very large

Solo New York Bleecker Recycled Polyester Rolling Backpack

College classes require so many textbooks, that’s where the Solo New York Bleecker Rolling Backpack comes in to help. It has a non-bulky design that looks stylish but also packs enough punch when it comes to offering you all the room you need to tote your books around campus. Dimensions: 13″ x 21″ x 7 1/2″ Capacity: 29 liters Weight: 3.92 lbs Pros: Water resistant Laptop pocket fits most 15.6″ laptops Multiple compartments Cons: Minimal design features

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The Best Carry-On Luggage and Weekender Bags for Spring Travel: Away, Samsonite, Calpak and More

The right luggage or carry-on bag for spring break travel can help make any trip as smooth as possible.

If you're gearing up for your spring travel plans, you may be searching for the perfect luggage to accompany you on your upcoming getaway.  Carry-on luggage  — including weekender bags and spinners — is probably the best way to travel if you want to beat the lines at busy airports, especially if you're traveling on a Friday.

No matter where your travel destinations are, one thing's for sure: the right luggage will make all the difference. We've found the best luggage to shop for all of your travels, from spacious duffle bags and practical backpacks to large and luxurious carry-ons  for your next flight.

Need a new tote bag to toss everything in for an upcoming Memorial Day weekend getaway or a bigger carry-on for a tropical vacation? The Beis Weekender Bag will fit all your essentials and help you travel in style. Need a new go-to suitcase for every travel situation? Away’s  standard carry on traveler bag has plenty of packing space while still fitting in the overhead bin. Trying to avoid the checked baggage fees and long bag drop line? The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Luggage helps you save money and time by going straight to TSA.

Below, we've rounded up the best carry-on luggage and weekender bags this year to take along on your next trip.

The Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Not only is the Samsonite Hardside Spinner perfectly sized and extremely durable, it's also incredible lightweight so you won't have to strain putting it in the overhead airplane compartment. With all kinds of pockets, you can easily organize all your belongings confidently. 

$200   $150

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Take OFF Luggage Personal Item Suitcase 2.0

The perfect-sized luggage that doubles as a personal item — just pop off the wheels and slide it under your seat. 

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner

Travelpro is a pilot-founded brand that you've likely seen used by flight crews. Travel stress-free with the Travelpro hardside carry-on luggage that effortlessly fits in the overhead bins of major domestic airlines, thanks to rigorous sizer bin testing and enhanced packing capacity. The PrecisionGlide System delivers impeccable control and a seamless rolling experience, so you can get through the airport with ease.

$370   $314

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port

Compact and convenient, this soft-sided luggage can slide smoothly under the seat in front of you or be tucked away in an overhead bin. The bag's main compartment can fit several outfits and a spare pair of shoes. Interior pockets lining the compartment will keep your toiletries organized. The telescoping handle and rolling wheels make this bag easy to navigate around a crowded airport, making it a great choice for the frequent flyer looking to pack light.

$145   $100

Monos Carry-On

Traveling is a breeze with the minimalist Monos carry-on, designed to fit in the overheard bin of almost any flight.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins. 

$170   $144

The Best Travel Backpacks and Totes for 2024 

Samsonite detour travel backpack.

Built to protect your belongings from the elements, the Detour Travel Backpack has enough capacity for your business, overnight or weekend trips.

$150   $105

Béis Travel Tote

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

Calpak Luka Backpack

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

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

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

Troubadour Featherweight Tote

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

Dagne Dover Jemi Puff Tote

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

The Best Weekender Bags for 2024 

Lululemon go getter bag 2.0.

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

Away The Everywhere Bag

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

Calpak Stevyn Duffel

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

SwissGear Apex Travel Duffle Bag

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

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Bag

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

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Reader's Digest

Top Travel Backpacks to Explore the World With Ease: Carry-On, Laptop, Business, and Beyond

Posted: April 12, 2024 | Last updated: April 12, 2024

Best overall travel backpack

Caraa studio bag.

Caraa is loved for its chic convertible bags, and its Studio design will be a new favorite travel companion. It earns our best travel backpack spot for its superior versatility, fashionable and luxurious finishes and functional design details. Luxury water-resistant nylon and Italian leather accents are made to last, and a secure turn-lock main compartment, padded zippered back pocket and external easy-to-grab side pocket make packing a piece of cake. Thoughtful details—like breathing vents in the main compartment, a waterproof and antimicrobial lining and a moisture-wicking mesh back—make this bag worth the splurge. It also comes with a waterproof wet clothes bag and a waterproof shoe pouch.

"I LOVE LOVE LOVE this bag. And it never ceases to amaze me. I've had mine for a year and it still looks brand new—despite being used every day," writes Tatiana, a verified reviewer.

• Three carrying modes
• Moisture-wicking backpack straps
• Anti-slip rubberized crossbody strap
• Dedicated 13-inch laptop pocket
• Available in two sizes and multiple colors

Best value travel backpack

Matein travel backpack.

This wildly popular travel backpack has more than 2,100 five-star ratings on Amazon. Here's why: The storage is exceptional. The two front organizer sections have spots for stashing keys, a wallet and a phone. The main compartment is roomy and ideal for daily essentials, and there's a separate padded space for laptops and other small tech devices. It's one of the best wallet-friendly Amazon carry-on luggage pieces.

" I travel 48 out of 52 weeks of the year and was looking for an inexpensive backpack that would be up for my travel challenges! Here it is! It’s perfect for my everyday tosses and bumps and being shoved into overhead bins on a plane. Fits nicely under the seat in front of me as long as I don’t pack it too full," shares five-star reviewer, Emily C .

• Budget-friendly
• Durable water-resistant and anti-scratch fabric
• Hidden anti-theft back zippered pocket
• Multi-panel ventilated padded back provides support
• Separate padded laptop compartment
• Includes a charging port, but not a portable charger

Best lightweight travel backpack

Jansport superbreak one backpack.

Since 1967, JanSport has continued to churn out some of the best backpacks for a reason: The durable construction is meant to last, and the affordable price point can't be beat. This lightweight best travel backpack only weighs 10.6 ounces and is simple, yet sturdy. The classic design of this JanSport backpack boasts spacious storage in the main compartment, a front utility pocket with a built-in organizer, a coated interior, a web haul handle and padded shoulder straps.

"...[I] have taken it hiking, camping, traveled to multiple countries with it, subjected it many times to being stuffed to bursting and weighed down probably to 20+ pounds, and four years later, the only sign of significant wear that it shows is one tiny hole along one of the seams on the back," writes verified purchaser, Katharine Hogan . For another great pick, check out the fold-up Paravel Backpack .

• Only weighs 10.6 ounces
• Water-repellent and abrasion-resistant fabric
• Available in 20 colors and prints
• Padded back panel and shoulder straps
• Main compartment doesn't have much organization

Best large travel backpack

Victorinox vx sport evo two-in-one backpack/duffel.

From the brand that created the original Swiss Army Knife, Victorinox brings the same ingenuity and clever functionality to its range of travel gear. A trusty duffle bag gets an upgrade with this convertible carryall that we're calling the best large backpack for travel. With a focus on practicality, durability and comfort, this two-in-one backpack/duffel is an indispensable companion for navigating any journey, near or far.

Hidden straps convert the duffle into a backpack and allow for hands-free cruising, whether you're racing for a flight or meandering on an outdoor expedition. Crafted from extra-tough polyester, it holds up on outdoor adventures. Plus, handy multipurpose pockets offer versatile storage solutions to avoid packing mistakes , including a separate space for shoes and compartments for electronics. It's a smart bag to have in your collection.

• 57-liter capacity
• Convertible multipurpose bag
• Adjustable padded backpack straps stow away when not in use
• Made of water-repellent fabric
• Has airflow channels in the padded back panels
• Only two colors available

Best travel backpack for organization

Béis the hanging backpack.

Actress Shay Mitchell's brand Béis (pronounced "base") churns out fashionable and functional bags for stylish jet-setters with wanderlust. The Hanging Backpack looks like an ordinary carryall, but features an innovative interior to keep all your gear contained. With a sleek shape, water-repellent exterior and built-in organizational system, it's the best travel backpack for weekend getaways or weeklong excursions. Pop open the snaps to reveal a removable shelving system. The accordion design allows for easy access and perfectly displays your belongings. It's the best solution for anyone who hates unpacking, and a smart alternative to packing cubes , too.

"When I travel, I am all about being completely organized, and this bag from Béis is my go-to as my personal item," says our shopping editor, Stephanie Hope . "I love that it slides easily over my carry-on luggage and can hold a few days' worth of clothing and essentials."

• Removable, compressible shelving system
• Lots of pockets for organization
• Adjustable padded straps
• Water-repellent fabric
• Laptop compartment
• Only one color option

Best travel backpack for business

Samsonite mobile solution convertible backpack.

A good backpack should keep up with you, notes Luo, which is why he loves convertible styles. "It's common to be on the move from morning until night," he says, "and a backpack should be able to easily adjust from the office to a workout to a dinner date." Samsonite, known for its superior luggage line, designed a convertible backpack that does just that. Using or removing the adjustable strap allows you to carry the bag in five unique ways: as a backpack, crossbody, over-the-shoulder bag, handheld bag or as an oversized clutch.

The multipurpose aspect of this quality luggage makes this one of the best business travel backpack options, allowing to seamlessly adapt the carrier for a range of occasions. Made with a sleek and sturdy nylon fabric with vinyl trim, it's both boardroom-appropriate and chic enough to sport every day. As an added benefit, there's a retractable "SmartSleeve" located in the exterior back zippered pocket, which fits over luggage handles for easy mobility when traveling.

• Convertible for business and beyond
• Water-resistant coating
• Interior padded tech sleeve
• Fits over luggage handles
• Only weighs 1.3 pounds
• Smaller capacity, so not suitable as the only bag for longer trips

Best travel backpack for kids

Pottery barn teen gear-up rainbow backpack.

Kids' backpacks get heavy —fast. But there's a smart solution to counter this problem. "Look for a very padded vented back, padded straps and a sternum strap for support," advises Renee Silverman, president of Irv's Luggage. This stylish number does the trick. Available in dozens of funky prints and five sizes (including a roller version), it has four roomy exterior compartments, a front zipper pocket with a cell phone holder, two D-rings in the front and back and a cinch mesh pocket on each side.

Even better? You'll feel extra good about this kids' travel backpack knowing it's eco-friendly: The rugged, water-resistant recycled polyester is made from more than 12 recycled plastic bottles. In fact, the brand has kept 66 million plastic bottles out of landfills to date, thanks to their recycled designs.

• Variety of fun prints that appeal to kids
• Five size options
• Easy-to-clean, water-resistant material
• Made of recycled material
• Customization available
• Personalized items not eligible for returns

What to consider when buying a travel backpack

Backpacks come in all shapes and sizes. There are duffle backpacks, rolling backpacks, mini backpacks, laptop backpacks and more. The style you should choose largely depends on the activity and the duration of the trip.

"You want something that looks fantastic in any scenario, from the airport to exploring a new city, but also has all the function to hold your stuff and keep you organized," says Adeela Hussain Johnson, president of Béis. If the backpack is essentially replacing a roller, then look for an option a bit bigger that has built-in packing functionality to fit everything you need to travel , like clothes, travel accessories , makeup and a laptop, says Johnson. But you also want a design with smart organization and dedicated compartments to make packing easier and keep small items, like jewelry and power cords, safe and secure.

If you're looking for stylish travel backpacks that work as a personal item for a flight, or need something more for everyday use, then go for a smaller versatile bag, suggests Johnson. (She loves expandable options, like this one from Béis .) "What if you decide to go shopping or go crazy in duty-free before the flight—easily expand it by unzipping it and then collapse it again when you don't need that space. It's all about options."

For Luo, he says the best travel backpack should be hyper-lightweight with a dedicated luggage sleeve to fly through the airport with ease. "Pick padded straps that support the back for days when you've packed everything but the kitchen sink," he advises.

If you plan to check your luggage , straps that tuck or hide away—so they don't get caught in conveyor belts or drag on the ground—will make the voyage run more smoothly. Lau shares another hack for flying , "I like to have a TSA-approved laptop and tablet sleeve, so I don't have to completely remove my laptop from the bag."

How we found the best travel backpacks

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we're only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product's quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.

Is it better to travel with a backpack or suitcase?

The best travel backpack is a versatile carry-on bag that allows you to easily maneuver—hands-free—through busy airports and crowded towns. If you're backpacking or traveling by foot, portability is paramount, so backpacks are usually the best bet. But, if you're going on a longer trip and need to pack more items, a roller suitcase or hard shell luggage might be a better option.

What size travel backpack do I need?

It depends on the length of the trip. Small knapsacks may be suitable for overnight getaways while you'll want a larger, more substantial size for weekend trips. For vacations longer than a week, check out the top luggage brands and best luggage sets . And if you're on a budget, scope out the best luggage deals for major discounts.

How much can fit in a carry-on backpack?

The best carry-on backpack should be able to hold at least a couple of days' worth of clothes, accessories, shoes and toiletries . Using packing cubes and compression bags and rolling clothes help maximize space in the backpack. But the exact amount of stuff that fits will vary depending on the style and design of the bag.

Most airlines allow a carry-on with a maximum size of 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches and a weight of 22 pounds (although, many domestic airlines don't have weight restrictions). But remember, just because a backpack can carry a ton, doesn't mean it should, especially when it's a kid doing the carrying. To prevent injury and backaches , the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that a child's backpack weigh no more than 10 to 15% of their body weight.

Are all carry-on backpacks airline-approved?

Do you plan to put the carry-on backpack in the overhead bin of the plane or under the seat? Every airline has different size restrictions for each, so double-check with the carrier to avoid unwanted baggage fees.

• Aaron Luo, CEO of Caraa
• Kevin Lau, retail sales specialist at Rei
• Renee Silverman, president of Irv's Luggage
• Adeela Hussain Johnson, president of Béis

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
• Balashikha Arena
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Bykovo Manor
• Pekhorka Park
• Drama Theatre BOOM
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
• Saturn Stadium
• Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
• Fifth House Gallery
• Church of Vladimir
• Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
• Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall

Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Attractions

Things to do in elektrostal.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Electrostal History and Art Museum

2. Statue of Lenin

3. Park of Culture and Leisure

4. museum and exhibition center.

5. Museum of Labor Glory

7. Galereya Kino

8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.

10. Gandikap

11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.

• Statue of Lenin
• Electrostal History and Art Museum
• Park of Culture and Leisure
• Museum and Exhibition Center
• Museum of Labor Glory