Top 7 travel backpacks for every adventure

Words By Editorial Team

1. Best overall travel backpack: Monos Metro Backpack

Minimalist, elevated, and made to move with you – the Metro Backpack is our top pick for versatile travel. Whether you’re heading to the office, navigating the airport, or exploring a new city, its clean lines and modular design keep essentials close at hand. Crafted with durable, water-resistant nylon twill and refined vegan leather detailing, the Metro blends function with form for seamless everyday carry.

Key features

Materials: Premium nylon twill with ultra-microfibre vegan leather accents
Water and scratch resistance: Protective exterior resists the elements and daily wear
Laptop sleeve: Padded compartment fits up to a 15" device
Hidden back pocket: Discreet magnetic closure for your phone, passport, or wallet
Privacy compartment: Waterproof fabric for shoes, gym wear, or damp items
Interior organization: Includes two slip pockets, a zippered pouch, and soft PET felt lining
Travel-ready: Trolley sleeve for secure attachment to luggage handles
Modular system: QuickSnap™ system with removable Metro Classic Kit

Specifications

Backpack only:

Dimensions: 11.5" × 16.5" × 6"
Weight: 2.4 lb (nylon) / 3 lb (vegan leather)
Capacity: 18 L

Metro Classic Kit:

Dimensions: 8.75" × 6.75" × 2"
Weight: 0.6 lb

Pros

Timeless, elevated aesthetic
Thoughtful interior and exterior storage
Durable construction for everyday use and travel

Cons

Vegan leather model is slightly heavier
Color options vary by material

For travelers who value a blend of utility and design, the Monos Metro Backpack offers a streamlined way to stay organized without compromising on style. Lightweight yet sturdy, it's a companion built to go wherever your journey leads.

Explore the Metro Backpack

2. Best travel backpack for active travelers: Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L

For travelers who pack light but move far, the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L balances structure, comfort, and adaptability. Built to handle unpredictable routes and quick transitions, it’s ideal for those who want gear that moves as fast as they do.

Key features

Compression system: Internal and external straps keep your gear stable and compact
Durability: Rugged construction resists wear through airports, buses, and city streets
Smart storage: Multiple mesh and zippered compartments for intuitive organization
Comfort: Padded shoulder straps, hip belt, and load-lifter straps help balance weight

Specifications

Dimensions: 24" × 14" × 11"
Weight: 3.4 lb
Volume: 46 L
Weight-to-volume ratio: 1.18 oz/L
External pockets: 5

What we like

TSA-compliant size fits in overhead compartments
Pairs with compatible daypacks for extra versatility
Minimal design with smart, travel-focused access points

Things to consider

Can feel bulky when fully packed
Main compartment doesn’t open fully flat

Whether you're heading abroad or across the country, the Sojourn Porter 46L is built for agile, modern travel. Its durable structure and smart design make it a dependable choice for travelers who value efficiency and freedom of movement.

3. Best travel backpack on a budget: Osprey Daylite Carry-On 35

The Osprey Daylite Carry-On 35 is a lightweight, streamlined backpack designed for practical travelers. It offers reliable performance with a simplified build, making it an excellent option for short getaways or everyday use – especially when budget is a priority.

Key features

Dimensions: 20" × 15" × 11"
Weight: 2.1 lb
Volume: 35 L
Available sizes: 26 L, 35 L, 44 L
External pockets: 5

Highlights

Lightweight build: At just 2.1 lb, it’s easy to carry and pack away
Wide-open access: Suitcase-style main zipper allows for efficient packing
Secure compression: Two internal straps keep contents in place during transit
Tech protection: Includes a padded laptop sleeve for added security

Limitations

Shape retention: Lacks structure when not fully packed
Weather resistance: Not fully water-resistant in heavy rain

Weight-to-volume ratio

Specification	Value
Weight	2.1 lb
Volume	35 L
Ratio	0.06 oz/L

The Daylite Carry-On 35 offers simple, dependable functionality without unnecessary extras. The back panel is padded for comfort, and external pockets offer fast access to essentials like snacks, tickets, or a water bottle. For minimalist packers or weekend travelers, this backpack offers excellent value.

Final thoughts

If you're looking for a budget-conscious travel backpack that still covers all the basics, the Daylite Carry-On 35 delivers. It’s efficient, lightweight, and packs down easily, making it a reliable companion for short trips or everyday use.

4. Best budget-friendly travel backpack: Coowoz Essentials

Functional, affordable, and surprisingly comfortable, the Coowoz Essentials is an ideal pick for travelers seeking simplicity. Despite its modest price, it delivers thoughtful features – like a padded back panel and shoe compartment – while maintaining a compact footprint perfect for weekend travel or carry-on use.

Key specifications

Dimensions: 13" × 19" × 8"
Sizes available: 22 L, 27 L, 31 L, 46 L
Weight: 2.8 lb
Weight-to-volume ratio: 1.14 oz/L
Exterior pockets: 7

Pros

Maintains shape even when empty
Separate compartment for shoes or wet items
Budget-friendly without sacrificing comfort

Cons

Limited room for bulkier gear
Noisy material
Some exterior pockets are hard to access

Storage and functionality

The Coowoz Essentials keeps things organized with multiple compartments, including one for wet or dirty items – ideal after workouts or beach days. It holds its form well, even when underpacked, and offers decent storage for the price. A built-in USB charging port adds convenience for tech-focused travelers.

Comfort and fit

Padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel make this a comfortable option for all-day wear. While not built for heavy loads, it shines as a lightweight, go-anywhere backpack for daily travel or short trips.

Comparison table

Feature	Coowoz Essentials	Osprey Daylite Carry-On 35
Weight	2.8 lb	2.1 lb
Dimensions	13" × 19" × 8"	20" × 15" × 11"
Special pockets	1 (shoe/wet compartment)	None
Price point	Budget	Mid-range

Coowoz Essentials is a well-rounded entry point into travel backpacks. While not premium, it delivers where it counts: comfort, versatility, and smart use of space. Ideal for those who pack light and move often.

5. Best travel backpack for organization and usability: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

With a structured layout and built-in mesh compartments, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is designed for travelers who value precision and order. It feels like a suitcase in backpack form – with the comfort and balance needed for long walks through terminals or city streets.

Key features

Integrated mesh dividers: Built-in organization eliminates the need for packing cubes
Detachable waist belt: Offers optional support for heavier loads
Eco-conscious materials: Constructed from recycled polyester and TPU
Luggage pass-through: Easily attaches to rolling luggage

Specifications

Dimensions: 22" × 12" × 11"
Weight: 3.1 lb
Volume: 35 L
Weight-to-volume ratio: 0.09 oz/L
External pockets: 4

Pros

Exceptional internal layout with mesh organizers
Comfortable, ergonomic carry system
Made with sustainable materials

Cons

Laptop sleeve has limited padding
More structured than casual packers may prefer

The Allpa is ideal for travelers who live out of their backpack. Its structure and materials support efficient packing, while comfort-forward straps ensure a secure fit. For those who like to keep things in order, this one checks all the boxes.

6. Sleek and elevated travel backpack: Thule Subterra 2 Convertible

The Thule Subterra 2 Convertible stands out for its polished design and smart compartment layout. Built for both business and leisure travel, it adapts easily from shoulder bag to backpack and even includes a removable laptop sleeve for streamlined mobility.

Key highlights

Convertible carry: Transforms from backpack to shoulder bag
Detachable laptop sleeve: Ideal for separating work gear
Snap-in divider: Keeps clothing organized
Semi-rigid form: Holds its shape and maintains clean lines

Specifications

Dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9"
Volume: 40 L
Weight: 4.0 lb
Weight-to-volume ratio: 0.10 oz/L

Considerations

Lacks waist belt for load distribution
Not fully waterproof – best to avoid downpours
Water bottle pocket is tight for larger bottles

The Subterra 2 Convertible is designed for travelers who want a sharp, versatile companion that transitions easily from airport lounge to business meeting. Understated, efficient, and elevated – this is travel made elegant.

7. Best travel backpack for comfort under heavy load: Osprey Farpoint 40

The Osprey Farpoint 40 is built for carrying heavier loads with less strain. Its suspension system mirrors what you'd find in a technical hiking pack – making it a favorite among long-haul travelers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort for size.

Top features

Adjustable torso length: Custom fit for better weight distribution
LightWire frame: Transfers load efficiently to the hip belt
Stowable straps: Tuck away for overhead storage or transport
Internal mesh pocket: Keeps small items secure inside the main compartment

Specifications

Dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9"
Weight: 3.5 lb
Volume: 40 L
Weight-to-volume ratio: 1.40 oz/L
External access pockets: 3

Why it’s worth considering

Backpack suspension system designed for extended wear
Compression straps help stabilize heavier loads
Optional daypack attachment (sold separately)

Potential drawbacks

No external water bottle pocket

The Farpoint 40 is a go-to for travelers who walk, transfer, and transition often. With a harness that takes the edge off long days, it’s engineered to move with you – and built to keep you balanced.

How to pick the best travel backpack for you

Choosing the right travel backpack starts with understanding how you move – what you carry, where you’re headed, and how often you go. Here’s how to find the right fit for your journey.

What size works best?

Size category	Best for
Less than 30 L	Day trips and essentials
30 – 50 L	Weekend getaways and short trips
60 L and above	Extended travel or larger loads

If you're flying frequently or prefer to travel light, 30 – 50 L is the sweet spot. It offers enough capacity for most trips while still qualifying as carry-on for most airlines.

How important is comfort?

Backpacks aren’t just about space – they’re about how you carry it. Look for ergonomic elements that help balance weight and reduce strain, especially if you’re walking for long periods.

Shoulder straps: Wide and padded to distribute load evenly
Back panel: Cushioned with breathable mesh for airflow
Hip and chest straps: Help stabilize heavier loads

Which features matter most?

Backpacks should be as intuitive as your itinerary. Choose features that reflect your travel style:

Water-resistant fabrics: Essential for unpredictable weather
Laptop or tech compartments: Must-haves for remote work or digital nomads
Compression straps: Help keep things compact and secure
Expandable sections: Useful if you tend to come home with more than you packed