Choosing the right travel backpack to accompany you on your journey is a vital thing when planning a trip. Choosing a bag that is huge too will imply picking additional weight, while one that is too little may squeeze all your gear — awkwardly.

Furthermore, the material of a backpack is important to you: the wrong material will turn into a swimming basket with rain.

Considering all the range of backpacks available today it is challenging to figure out which one is the best backpack for you. There is a method to madness of choosing the right travel backpack and I am here to help you through it.

On my first ever travel trek I spent months deciding what pack was right for me. I shopped for months at stores trying on loads of bags and reading through endless online product reviews about which ones were best. The process required a ton of time, but in the end, first back-bagged held up for 8 years. Aside from that, I had to replace it because of an airline disaster where they did not deliver my case. Then what happens I would still use that beast of a companion to this day.

In the plethora of travel backpacks available out there, and the plethora retailers at are trying to sell you a backpack how do you choose the right one for your travels? Here I will list what you should be looking for in a great travel backpack, share the top brands and give my recommendations for where to buy them with. You will have hours of research cut out for yourself and make a sound decision in purchasing a backpack that is going to last.

The Best Travel Backpacks: Understanding Size

Perhaps the most asked question about backpacks, inevitably leads to a very subjective measurement. The answer is quite simple, there is no one-size-fits-all. The size of backpack—the amount of capacity will vary depending on what you require, be it 40 liters or even up to 60 Liters will be correct to your body. Whey this backpack is too big or small can leads to a wrong distribution on weight making you to get back and instability that will be pain. You need a pack that is as close to the essentials and a little bit over, but not roomy enough to dump everything into.

You dont have to over pack with even the kitchen sinks. I bring clothing for 7-10 days worth of laundry, and then do it again. This method helps you to keep your gear to a minimum. If a backpack can barely squeeze your stuff, but has some room to spare — you probably got the right size. The torso and waist dimensions for your models are usually suggested by manufacturers, but you will know if it fits right by fitting the suit in your home store. A nice camping or outdoor store (preferably the one who sells backpacks) should let you load up what equivalent 30 pounds (15 kg) weights so you get a fair trial.

Remember that bigger bags could not be good for your carry on travel. All airlines have baggage size restrictions, usually allowing a carry on that measures [22″ by 14″ by 9 inches] or 56×36×23 centimeters (including handles and wheels). A backpack of these specs usually squeeze in between 40-45 liters, which are carry-on dimensions. Make a pack of the same size for carry-on trips (when flying with only carry-on luggage)

International flights are excepted with major airlines, but on cuts price airlines they’ll charge you some fee for your checked in bag.

So a heavier your bag would probably charge you at the gate. My bag flies in my overhead at full size if you can believe that one time on a US Airways flight, and yet I can’t tell whether (or even if) it lands when flying with budget carriers.

Backpack or Suitcase . which one best? 

Okay, I realy don’t like  suitcases for a month+ trips. During global travel, no matter how you get around in buses throughout other countries, you are still going to have to carry that stuff around with you somehow with your luggage destined to in a pile somewhere. There is precious little difference in pushing one case around on the street or up stairs with a suitcase to going five flights of stairs in a quaint Italian hotel.

For short hauls or an extended time plan one location Suitcase — I use one of those for quick trips that will be short on hold. True enough, but if you are going move often and plan on backpacking a bunch you are either bagging on the correct backpack. Every travel center is designed around them, They are far more practical than rucksacks and you can bring them upstairs at once, these are hence making your travels incredibly easier. I love the fact that my bag doesn’t even have to leave when I am going up escalators or walking through cobblestone streets.

A small wheeled suitcase with a long-handle that would be more appropriate for backpackers if they are saddled with back ailments. Even though it can be sort of heavy to carry down and up stairs, or to weave through cobblestone sidewalks, quite a few branches offer light travel cases to make the load better. Then there are hybrid backpacks and wheels too, the best of both worlds. I still mostly like traditional (non collapsible) backpacks though.

Best Features of a Good Travel Backpack

There is a certain handful of travel backpacks that will make it through abuse and time like the best of breed, and many of those traits factors in to their durability, fade resistance as well. Be sure your backpack meets all the following requirements:

Water-Resistant Material

Though your backpack shouldn’t be airtight unless you’re gearing up for a multiday long trip, it should be built generously with a semi-waterproof fabric that keeps your essentials safe from a downpour. Though most bags come with rain covers for the more extreme things, it is smart to pick a matelassé that you can hang because then no one gets musty. Its highly effective: Thick, well treated nylon fiber (that is lightweight). Optimal, you should be able to stream a whole cup of water over the exterior without wicking it into the inner parts. I don’t travel in the drenching rains very often, but light rain, my backpacks fine material has kept me from wearing wet clothes too many times.

Locking Zippers

Each external compartment of the backpack you bring should have two zippers so you can lock them together for an increased level of security. I am not that worried about washing darks in hostel, but personal live bag is my main concern while travelling anyway. My biggest fear is that someone will put something in my bag, or a baggage handler at the airport will drop my stuff (yes, I drive the occasional short distance). When buying locks, be sure to get TSA-approved locks –  these use a clever design to allow the agents to unlock them through visual inspection without damaging the actual lock. These are stocks found at common retailers such as Target or Walmart.

You may want to look in to purchasing a Pacsafe   bag if your security is on fine print as you are carrying a large physical camera body. They are made for that purpose: Security backpacks to prevent anybody stealing your things.

With these key functions in mind, you can make a safe reservation of a travel backpack and ensure that it does not fail you during your upcoming adventures. Happy travels!

Essential  Compartments Features of a Travel Backpack

In any travel backpack, one of the main consideration that I think should come after buying a backpack is how many compartments it has. Ideally, this type of bag is well done and offers several compartments so that you can break down your items into sections, making it easier to find. Clothes – I always put my clothes in the principal compartment of course, the umbrella and flip flops are in the top pocket and i keep my shoes in a separate side chamber just in case if you know what i mean. Thanks to this thoughtful organization, there is no need for you to dig through your bag. All back packs need multiple compartments, but take notice of the specialized totes you might need — laptop pocket or water bottle pocket at the side, etc. You can use the packing cubes  to keep you bag organized even if you own a multi-compartment bag.

Hip Belt with padding

 lot of the weight you are carrying will sit on your hips so it is a big plus for a hip belt to be included and padded. This belt evenly spreads the load over all parts of your body, alleviating stress on your back. Choose one with adjustable hip belt so you can tighten it to get more support Hip belt should be done better having zippered pockets for little things such as loose change or bus pass too.

Cushioned Shoulder Straps

When you are carrying a full backpack, comfort is of high importance and one of the most crucial things in this is proper padded shoulder-straps. Strap have the goal of relieving pressure on your shoulder and lower back. You want padding to be substantial and one piece, this design is less likely to rip or sag over time.

Do the comfort of the shoulder straps only checker if you visit a store and try a bag on yourself. Have a staff member put weight in the backpack so you can feel it how it feels when packed.

Shaped and Cushioned Back

A back design that is contoured or has padding reduces the weight and makes you feel comfortable, like ergonomic chair. It mimics the arch of your back, which in turn prevents you from getting ache. It is also important for your back to fit the pack like a glove which is providing a tight seal between you and the bag so it can allow for some airflow and cool you during travels too, specially when you are out and about.

Front-Loading Design

Choose a front-loaded back case for easy access to your items by zipping the face of the bag up. On the other side, top loading bag just means you can get in and out only from the top which makes retrieving bottomed items difficult.

A front load means that you can access all your gear with ease,. Another good option is a bag that can top load and also front load, but do not choose one with a single opening, as they are clunky.

What Should You Expect to Pay for Travel Backpacks?

Backpacks can cost anywhere from small to huge or backpacks that are expensive and of good quality with their material to determine. The vast majority of travel backpacks range in price between $99 – $300 USD with medium-sized store brands around a modest $199 USD on average. Usually, the store brands to name like North Face, Osprey and Gregory are smaller and cheaper.

Okay in my opinion a backpack should never be over 300 USD frankly the feature count will only need to add another $20 to that price. The more expensive backpacks are usually larger and they try to get over the top with ‚special amenities’ like separate padding & materials that are much more expensive.

The backpack you are searching should not be strictly claimed as a hiking, backpacking or travel backpack. A hiking/travel backpack can be a lovely upgrade from the urban streets. Hiking backpacks tend to look very rugged and have lots of outdoorsy accessories, and modern travel bags are a lot sleeker with an urban digital nomad vibe: this means more organisation and possibly less form factor.

Basically you should look to spend $100-$250 USD on a decent travel daypack that fits your needs as well!

The Best Travel Backpacks: 5 Favorite Picks

                                                          1 . 

Osprey Fairview 40L Women’s Travel Backpack

Adjustable torso fit

Large panel zip access to main compartment

Dual front compression straps

The harness and hipbelt stow away for safekeeping while checked and deploy quickly for any path or trail

Size: 38-40L
Straps: 2 front compression straps, 2 internal compression straps, padded hip belt, sternum strap
Features: 16-inch laptop sleeve, large zippered panel, padded handles, mesh back panel.

 2 . 

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L Travel Backpack,

Heavy-duty bluesign approved, recycled high tenacity and ballistic

Comfortable AirScape backpanel with tuckaway harness and hipbelt

Unique Straight Jacket compression provides extra padding and load control

TSID luggage registration included with each piece

Size: 46L
Straps: 2 front compression straps, 2 internal compression straps, padded hip belt, sternum strap
Features: 15-inch laptop sleeve, lots of pockets, lockable zippers, padded handles for toting.

                                                   3 . 

 Deuter Aircontact Ultra 5L Backpack, Tin-Shale, 50 + 5 Liter
 

USE CASE: This comfortable 50 + 5 liter-by-volume backpack made from 157D Polyamide Ripstop Ultra HD features the Deuter Aircontact back system for reduced perspiration rates compared to a conventional compact back system.  Ideal for hiking, mountain climbing, trekking, or travel.

MATERIAL CONSTRUCTION: The polyamide fibers are extremely durable, abrasion-resistant and are characterized by high elasticity and low weight. Specs – Weight: 2.80 lbs., Dimensions 30 / 11 / 9.8 (h x w x d) in, Recommended load: 26 – 33 lbs., Back Length: 17 – 21 in, Body height: 66 -76 in.

AIRCONTACT BACK SYSTEM: The essence of our Aircontact system ensures an efficient method of carrying heavy loads whereby the weight is brought close to the body, aligning with the center of gravity.

COMFORTABLE FIT: Adjustable sternum strap for added stability and comfort, pull-forward adjustment with automatic side compression, and ventilated padded hip fins for improved airflow and comfort, reducing heat buildup and moisture while providing a secure and balanced fit around your hips.

ENHANCED FEATURES: Lightweight round profile frame made of permanently elastic spring steel, drinking system compartment compatible with 3-liter drinking system/bag (not included), zippered lid compartment, attachment loops, signal whistle, expandable 5-liter capacity, and mesh side pocket storage. Made from 175D PA Ripstop Ultra HD material. The product is certified by Bluesign, ClimatePartner, and the Green Button. 

                                                 4 .  

COR Surf 34L Carry On Travel Backpack | TSA and Airline Flight Approved Personal Luggage Style Backpack | The Island Hopper 2.0 | 34L Matte Black Waterproof Edition | FREE S-Clip Included.

The new Island Hopper 2.0 Carry On Travel Backpack in our new size 34L! With new, lightweight but waterproof rip-stop material, built tough to handle the elements and the same water-resistant.

LIGHTWEIGHT only 2.5 lbs!! Plus a NEW Stow-Away Waist Belt and new Waterproof Ripstop Material.

secret hidden pockets! Two hidden pockets on the back-panel for travel documents, money, credit cards, or whatever you don’t want the pick-pockets to find. 

Easy Access Shock-Proof Padded Laptop Side Pocket makes clearing TSA a breeze. 

Durable: Built Tough with double stitching to last years of travel. 34L: 19.15″ X 11.25″ wide X 9.75″ deep (Yes it will fit under the seat).

                                                          5 . 

BANGE Airback Backpack with Anti-Theft Vacuum Compression Travel Backpack,Expandable Backpacks with Pump for Airplanes.

Vacuum Compression:The air backpack adopt in vacuum packet design,not only save space but also let your travel be convenient, It also provides you with an electronic vacuum pump for you to choose. 

Expandable Capacity:Vacuum backpack before extended is 22L, dimensions are 17.5×11.8×5.5inch; after extended is 35L, dimensions are 17.5×11.8×9.5inch. 

pocket.Meanwhile,the laptop backpack have lot of human design,such as adjustable chest strap,breathable shoulder strap,luggage strap, TSA lock and anti-theft pocket.

Multifunctional Pocket:

Waterproof material