The 24 Best Backpacks for Travel

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, two young children, and their dog, Indiana Bones (Indy).

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Backpacks are extremely convenient for travel. They come in all shapes and sizes, and work well as either a personal item or carry-on when flying. They work as a suitcase for shorter trips, and are perfect for using all day long while sightseeing. Their compartments and pockets will keep you organized no matter where the day takes you.

Here are our picks for the best backpacks for travel.

Made from 100% recycled polyester, this bag from Everlane is not only environmentally-friendly but functional too.

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If you’ve ever owned one of their water bottles, you know YETI does not mess around when it comes to durability. Their Crossroads backpack is made with TuffSkin™ nylon- water and abrasion-resistant material.

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It’s in the name – the Everyday Backpack from Lululemon is not just great for travel, but for your everyday use as well.

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Easily switch from backpack to tote with the Ultralight Black Hole backpack from Patagonia.

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This backpack from Cotopaxi has a zipper that goes all the way around the bag – like a suitcase – making it incredibly easy to pack and unpack.

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This sleek, compact backpack will hold everything you need for a short trip or that you want to take with you on an airplane for a longer trip.

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You may never use a rolling carry-on suitcase again when you get the 40L Tortuga Travel Backpack. It combines the convenience of a backpack with the space and organization of a suitcase.

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For anyone who likes to have a matching luggage set, The Everywhere Zip Backpack coordinates with all of Away’s collections. It’s the perfect personal item to go along with their carry-ons and checked suitcases.

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The iconic Longchamp has created this insanely cute backpack to hold your basic essentials for your next trip.

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No matter if you are headed to an adventure in the wilderness or to a big city, the Osprey Farpoint 40 has you covered. Roomy, durable and convenient, this backpack is perfect for whatever comes your way.

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Nothing says durability like LL Bean, and you can count on that and more with their Stoaway Pack.

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Made from rich Italian leather, the Lorimer backpack is fashionable and functional for all of your travel needs.

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The unique style of this backpack will make you a standout while jet-setting. Easily carry it as a tote when you don’t want it on your back.

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The Thule Aion Travel Pack is practical and efficient, and will hold everything you need for a short trip or to use as your personal item for a longer trip.

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This compact backpack expands for times you need a little extra room for your essentials.

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This compact yet functional backpack is perfect for long days of travel as well as taking with you while out and about on vacation.Features indclude:

Stay fashionable and organized with the Ki Backpack from Troubadour.

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The removable foam cushion-come-seat pad in this backpack will become your best friend while on the road. While you’re walking around with a full backpack, it offers extra padding, and when you need to sit, pull it out and put it down for extra comfort.

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The Essential Carry-On Bag Packing List

This lightweight backpack is perfect for whatever adventure comes your way. Fitted with the AirSpeed® ventilated suspension system, the weight of the backpack will melt off and keep it manageable.

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This no-fuss backpack will provide everything you need for a basic travel bag. With plenty of pockets and comfort features, this may be all you need!

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You will relax knowing your items are safe in the Pacsafe Venturesafe backpack. The securable and puncture-resistant zippers can be locked with a padlock using a stainless steel cable,, and the fabric is cut-resistant, making it extra secure.

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This backpack will fit the needs of whatever trip comes your way. It meets international carry-on guidelines and has compartments for all of your essentials.

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This backpack from Topo Designs is available in your typical black or grey, but also bright yellows, greens and blues, making it a fun statement piece.

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The roominess of the main 60L REI Co-Op Ruckpack one will probably be all you need, but it comes with an extra 20L daypack that can be attached to the larger bag, or simply packed to be used as a smaller bag while sightseeing.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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