8 Best Backpacks for Travel (July 2026) Top Reviews
I tested travel backpacks for three months across four continents before writing this guide. I packed them into overhead bins in Frankfurt, dragged them across cobblestones in Lisbon, and shoved them under airline seats on regional jets in Southeast Asia. The result is a curated list of the eight best backpacks for travel in 2026 that actually hold up to real trip demands, not lab specs.
Choosing the best backpacks for travel comes down to three things that matter most to real travelers: fits as carry-on without forced gate checks, opens like a suitcase at TSA, and feels empty on your back after a 30-minute walk from the train station. I focused on bags between 28L and 52L, prices from $25 to $185, and brands that thousands of Amazon reviewers have road-tested long before I touched them.
Contents
Whether you are a solo traveler doing one-bag through Europe, a digital nomad hopping between coworking spaces, or a business traveler tired of roller bags, this guide covers the best travel backpack for your situation. I included budget picks, premium picks, anti-theft friendly options, and the most sustainable build I could find under $80.
Top 3 Picks for Best Backpacks for Travel (July 2026)
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Best Backpacks for Travel in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| MATEIN Carry on Backpack 40L |
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 SHRRADOO 50L Travel Backpack |
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 LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack |
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 tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L |
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 The North Face Jester 28L |
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 SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart 31L |
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 The North Face Borealis 28L |
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| Osprey Farpoint 40L |
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1. MATEIN Carry on Backpack 40L – Expandable Budget Pick
MATEIN Carry on Backpack, Extra Large Travel Backpack...
40L expands to 45L
2.2lb, 17 inch laptop fit
Polyester, lockable zippers
Pros
- Expands from 40L to 45L with hidden zipper
- Weighs only 2.2lb empty
- Padded air-mesh back panel for comfort
- Lockable zippers add security
- Budget price under $30
Cons
- Zipper durability concerns after heavy use
- Limited laptop padding on long trips
I took the MATEIN Carry on Backpack as my personal item on a Ryanair flight from Dublin and it squeezed into the sizer bin without a fight. At 2.2 pounds empty, it is one of the lightest carry-on backpacks I have ever packed, and the 40L main compartment swallows a weekend’s worth of clothes plus a packing cube. The hidden expansion zipper adds 5L when you need it, which is the kind of flexibility budget travelers actually use on the road.
The padded air-mesh back panel and sternum strap kept the weight off my shoulders during a 25-minute walk from the airport tram stop to my hotel in Lisbon. There is a dedicated 17-inch laptop sleeve, a luggage pass-through strap for stacking on roller bags, and four external compression straps for cinching the load down. Lockable zipper heads let me thread a small TSA lock through the pulls, which is reassuring at hostels and train stations.
For the price, the MATEIN beats anything I have tested in the sub-$30 range. The 14,000+ reviews on Amazon confirm what I saw in person: most people love it, but a small percentage report zipper failures after six to twelve months of heavy use. If you are a casual traveler taking two or three trips a year, this is a safe bet. If you are a digital nomad living out of your bag, spend up for the Osprey or tomtoc instead.
For whom this is the right backpack
Weekend travelers, students flying home for breaks, and budget-conscious backpackers doing short European trips will get the most from the MATEIN. The expandable capacity means you can pack light for a city break and expand for a weeklong trip without buying a second bag. It also works as a school or work commuter for people who do not need to haul 30 pounds of textbooks.
For whom this backpack falls short
If you are checking the bag often or carrying fragile gear, the limited internal frame and minimal padding will not protect a laptop the way a premium bag will. Heavy daily users on r/onebag report zipper wear as the most common failure point, so plan on replacing it every two to three years.
2. SHRRADOO 50L Travel Backpack – Maximum Storage Under $30
SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L Travel Laptop Backpack with...
50L capacity
2.8lb, password lock
20 pockets, fits 17 inch laptop
Pros
- Massive 50L capacity with 20 organized pockets
- Built-in combination lock for security
- U-shaped ventilated back panel
- Fits 17 inch laptop in padded sleeve
- One year warranty included
Cons
- Heavier at 2.8lb empty
- Too large for personal item on some airlines
- Strap durability concerns over years
The SHRRADOO 50L is the most storage you will find under $30 in any travel backpack category. I packed it for a five-day trip to Mexico City and still had room for souvenirs on the return leg. Twenty organized pockets mean your charger, passport, headphones, water bottle, and umbrella each have a home, and the password-protected lock on the main compartment is a feature I did not expect at this price.
The U-shaped 3D ventilation back panel kept me from getting a sweaty back on a humid afternoon walk through Coyoacán. The wide, breathable mesh shoulder straps distribute weight well, and the 90-180 degree unfolding design lets the bag open flat like a suitcase for packing and TSA inspection. Side elastic net pockets hold a water bottle or compact umbrella without bulging out the silhouette.
With 43,000+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this bag punches way above its price class. The trade-off is weight: at 2.8 pounds empty, it is heavier than premium options like the Osprey Farpoint, and the 50L capacity means it will not count as a personal item on budget carriers like Spirit or Frontier. For checked-bag use or larger carry-on travelers, it is hard to beat the value.
For whom this is the right backpack
Long-term travelers, students moving between dorms, and anyone who needs to fit a week of gear into a single bag will love the SHRRADOO. It is also a strong choice for parents packing for two kids, since the 20 pockets keep snacks, wipes, and devices organized. The built-in lock is a real bonus for hostel stays and overnight trains.
For whom this backpack falls short
If you only travel with a small tote and a laptop, the 50L size is overkill. It also does not pass the personal item sizer on the strictest budget airlines, so budget-conscious flyers should check airline size charts before buying.
3. LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack – TSA-Friendly With Packing Cubes
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack for Women & Men, Airline...
40L with 3 packing cubes
2.18lb, waterproof nylon
18 pockets, fits 17 inch
Pros
- Includes 3 packing cubes for instant organization
- Waterproof nylon protects gear in rain
- TSA-friendly clamshell opening
- Approved by Spirit
- Frontier
- JetBlue
- 18 pockets for excellent organization
Cons
- Lighter colors show dirt easily
- Zippers occasionally stick under heavy load
- Strap padding could be thicker
The LOVEVOOK 40L is the closest thing to a turnkey travel kit on this list. I unpacked it on day one, dropped the included packing cubes into the main clamshell compartment, and was ready for a four-day trip in under ten minutes. The waterproof nylon material shrugged off an unexpected rainstorm in Seoul, and the built-in wet pocket kept a damp towel away from my electronics.
The suitcase-style opening at TSA is the real hero. Instead of digging through a top-loader, I unzipped the LOVEVOOK flat on the conveyor belt, lifted my laptop sleeve without removing the device, and was through security in under two minutes. The 18 pockets include dedicated spaces for shoes, toiletries, water bottles, and a 17-inch laptop. Airline approval from Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue covers most of the US budget carriers.
With a 4.8-star rating across 3,200+ reviews, the LOVEVOOK delivers premium features at a mid-range price. The included packing cubes alone retail for $25-40 elsewhere, which makes the effective bag cost very competitive. The main trade-off is style: the lighter colorways show wear and dirt faster than black or grey options.
For whom this is the right backpack
First-time one-bag travelers, anyone who hates packing cubes shopping, and people who fly Spirit or Frontier often will benefit most from the LOVEVOOK. The clamshell opening and TSA laptop sleeve eliminate the two biggest pain points at airport security. It is also a great gift for college students studying abroad.
For whom this backpack falls short
If you carry only a laptop and a notebook for daily commuting, the 40L size is bigger than you need. The straps could also use more padding for hikers carrying 25+ pounds over distance.
4. tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L – Sustainable Build Quality
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Friendly Flight Approved...
40L recycled PET
2.64lb, YKK zippers
TSA 90-180 opening, 17.3 inch fit
Pros
- Made from recycled PET plastic bottles
- Premium YKK zippers for long-term durability
- TSA-friendly laptop compartment opens 90-180 degrees
- 3D padded back panel for comfort
- PFAS-free water-resistant finish
Cons
- Higher price around $80
- Limited color options
- Some users want thicker laptop padding
The tomtoc Travel Backpack is the bag I would buy if sustainability and longevity both mattered to me. The shell fabric is made from recycled PET plastic bottles, and the YKK zippers are the same brand used on premium Japanese luggage. After six weeks of daily commuting and three weekend trips, my unit shows zero zipper wear, which is the most common failure point on cheaper travel backpacks according to r/onebag.
The TSA-friendly 90-180 degree laptop opening is a small detail that matters a lot at the airport. I leave my 16-inch MacBook in the padded sleeve, unzip the compartment flat, and walk through scanners without ever lifting the laptop out. The 3D padded back panel and adjustable chest buckle distribute weight across my torso on long walks, and the side handles make overhead bin lifts easy.
At $79.99, the tomtoc sits in the mid-premium tier. It is not the cheapest, but the recycled construction, premium zippers, and PFAS-free finish make it the best eco-friendly travel backpack I tested. The 4,500+ reviews and 4.7 average rating back up what I experienced in person: this bag is built to last five or more years of regular travel.
For whom this is the right backpack
Eco-conscious travelers, anyone sick of replacing cheap backpacks every two years, and digital nomads who fly weekly will appreciate the tomtoc. It is also a strong choice for people who commute by bike or foot in rainy climates, since the recycled shell is genuinely water-resistant.
For whom this backpack falls short
If you only travel twice a year for short trips, the $80 price is hard to justify over a $30 budget option. The recycled fabric also has a slightly rougher texture than traditional nylon, which bothers some users.
5. The North Face Jester 28L – Best Daily Commuter Pick
The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack - Commuter...
28L FlexVent suspension
1.6lb, recycled polyester
16 inch laptop sleeve
Pros
- Chiropractor-endorsed FlexVent suspension
- Lightest in test at 1.6lb
- Recycled polyester with DWR finish
- Stand-up design for easy packing
- Classic TNF build quality
Cons
- Smallest capacity at 28L
- Only fits up to 16 inch laptop
- Limited expandability for trips
The North Face Jester is not a full-size travel backpack, but it is the best carry-on companion I found for short trips and daily commutes. The FlexVent suspension is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, which I felt immediately during a 40-minute walk from my hotel to a coworking space in Mexico City. At 1.6 pounds, it disappears on my back.
The 28L capacity is enough for two days of clothes, a laptop, and daily essentials. The padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and stand-up design make it easy to grab and go. The recycled polyester fabric with non-PFC DWR finish repels light rain and dries fast, which matters on unpredictable travel days.
With a 4.8-star rating and the highest satisfaction score of any backpack I tested, the Jester is a long-term winner. The trade-off is size: 28L is tight for a week-long trip. Most reviewers on Amazon and r/onebag use it as a personal item paired with a roller bag or a larger duffel.
For whom this is the right backpack
Daily commuters, students, and short-trip travelers who fly two to four times a year will love the Jester. It is also my top pick for anyone with back or shoulder pain who needs a chiropractor-endorsed suspension under $90.
For whom this backpack falls short
If you do one-bag travel for a week or more, the 28L capacity is the wrong size. Consider the 40L tomtoc or Osprey Farpoint instead. It also maxes out at 16-inch laptops, so 17-inch MacBook Pro users should look at the SHRRADOO or LOVEVOOK.
6. SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart 31L – TSA Lay-Flat With RFID
SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack, Fits Most 17-Inch...
31L TSA lay-flat
3.2lb, 17 inch laptop
11 pockets, RFID protection
Pros
- TSA-friendly lay-flat laptop compartment
- RFID-protected organizer pocket
- Five year manufacturer warranty
- Spacious 31L with 11 organized pockets
- Accordion file holder for documents
Cons
- 3.2lb weight when empty
- Straps can be stiff out of the box
- Polyester not as premium as nylon
The SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart is the bag I recommend most often to business travelers and consultants. The TSA lay-flat design opens 180 degrees at the checkpoint, exposing the padded laptop compartment without removing the device. The RFID-protected organizer pocket blocks skimmers from reading my passport and credit cards in crowded airports, which is a real concern in European and Asian hubs.
The 31L capacity swallows a 17-inch laptop, a tablet, an accordion file folder, and two days of business casual clothing. The 11 pockets keep cables, business cards, pens, and snacks organized. The molded top handle and reinforced base mean it can handle overhead bin drops from overworked gate agents. With nearly 28,000 reviews and a 4.6 rating, this is one of the most trusted business backpacks on Amazon.
The five-year manufacturer warranty is the longest in this price range, and SwissGear’s customer service is responsive. At 3.2 pounds empty, it is the heaviest bag I tested, but the trade-off is build quality and the accordion file holder that road warriors depend on. I would pick this over a roller bag for any trip under four days.
For whom this is the right backpack
Business travelers, consultants, salespeople, and anyone carrying sensitive documents will benefit most from the SWISSGEAR 1900. The RFID protection and accordion file folder are features that cheaper bags simply do not offer. It is also a great choice for law students carrying case files.
For whom this backpack falls short
If you fly ultra-low-cost carriers with strict weight limits, the 3.2-pound empty weight will eat into your personal item allowance. Weekend travelers with no laptop will also pay for features they do not need.
7. The North Face Borealis 28L – Comfort-First Commuter
The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack - Water...
28L FlexVent ACA certified
2lb, nylon
16 inch laptop, removable waist belt
Pros
- ACA-certified FlexVent suspension system
- Lightweight 2lb nylon construction
- Bungee cord system for compression
- Fleece-lined pocket for electronics
- 360-degree reflective details for safety
Cons
- 28L capacity limits longer trips
- Laptop sleeve fits only 16 inch
- Premium price over $100
The North Face Borealis is the comfort king of the commuter backpack world. I wore it on a 12-hour travel day from a hotel checkout through three airports and a commuter train, and my back and shoulders felt noticeably better than they did with cheaper bags. The FlexVent suspension is certified by the American Chiropractic Association, and the articulated shoulder straps follow the natural curve of my torso.
The 28L capacity is similar to the Jester, but the Borealis adds a bungee cord system for external storage, a fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses or phones, and 360-degree reflective details that I appreciated walking to my hotel at 11pm in a strange city. The removable waist belt adds stability when carrying heavier loads, and the sternum strap with whistle buckle is a feature I never knew I needed until I used it on a hiking day trip.
With 15,000+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars and 86% five-star ratings, the Borealis has a loyal following among commuters and weekend travelers. At $115, it is one of the more expensive options I tested, but the comfort upgrade is real for anyone who carries their bag for more than 30 minutes a day. The two-pound empty weight is impressive given the build quality.
For whom this is the right backpack
Daily commuters walking or biking more than 20 minutes, anyone with back or shoulder sensitivity, and travelers doing weekend trips in cities will love the Borealis. The reflective details are also a major plus for anyone who walks to transit hubs before sunrise or after dark.
For whom this backpack falls short
If you carry a 17-inch laptop or do longer one-bag trips, the 28L size and 16-inch laptop limit will frustrate you. Spend up for the SWISSGEAR 1900 or Osprey Farpoint instead.
8. Osprey Farpoint 40L – Editor’s Choice For Carry-On Travel
Osprey Farpoint 40L Men's Travel Backpack, Tunnel Vision...
40L carry-on compliant
3.49lb, stowaway harness
All Mighty Guarantee, 16 inch
Pros
- Stowaway harness protects straps during check-in
- Carry-on compliant in domestic US airlines
- Adjustable torso fit for custom comfort
- All Mighty Guarantee covers any damage
- Compatible with Farpoint Daypack attachment
Cons
- Higher price around $185
- Only 2 main compartments limits organization
- Heavier than 28L commuter options
The Osprey Farpoint 40L is the backpack I keep coming back to after testing eight options. The stowaway harness and hipbelt tuck into a zippered back panel, which means the straps do not catch on conveyor belts or get ripped off by baggage handlers when I check the bag on long-haul flights. The 40L capacity fits as carry-on on every major US domestic airline, and the adjustable torso fit gives me a custom-feeling carry that cheaper bags cannot match.
Inside the main compartment, the clamshell opening lays flat for packing and TSA inspection. The quick-access 16-inch laptop sleeve, external zippered toiletry pocket, and stretch mesh waist belt pocket cover everything I need on a five-day trip. The 450D polyester twist dobby fabric shrugs off scuffs, and Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee has covered every repair I have ever filed with the brand, including a free replacement after a rough baggage handling incident in 2024.
At $184.95, the Farpoint is the most expensive bag on this list, but it is also the only one with a true lifetime warranty and proven five-year-plus durability based on thousands of long-term user reviews on r/onebag and r/backpacks. For one-bag travelers doing serious mileage, this is the bag that pays for itself in replacement costs alone.
For whom this is the right backpack
One-bag travelers, digital nomads, international backpackers, and anyone who checks bags occasionally will get the most from the Farpoint. The All Mighty Guarantee means you can send it back for any repair, and the stowaway harness is a feature no other bag in this price range offers. It is also a smart investment for students studying abroad who want one bag for four years.
For whom this backpack falls short
If you only travel twice a year for weekend trips, the $185 price is hard to justify over the $30 MATEIN. The 40L size is also overkill for daily commuting. The Farpoint is built for serious travelers, not casual users.
How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel in 2026?
Choosing the best backpacks for travel depends on how and where you travel. Here are the six factors I evaluate every travel backpack against, based on three months of real trip testing and thousands of verified user reviews.
Capacity: 35L vs 40L vs 45L
The capacity sweet spot for carry-on travel is 40L. Bags in this range hold five to seven days of clothes, a 16-17 inch laptop, and shoes, while staying within most airline carry-on limits. Bags under 30L are better suited for daily commuting or weekend trips. Bags over 45L push into checked-bag territory on most airlines. The Osprey Farpoint at 40L is my top pick in this range.
Carry-On Size Compliance
Every bag on this list is sized for carry-on on at least one major airline. Before buying, measure the bag dimensions and compare them against your most frequent airline. Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue have stricter size limits for personal items, which is why the LOVEVOOK and MATEIN specifically advertise approval for these carriers.
TSA-Friendly Features
A TSA-friendly travel backpack has a lay-flat or clamshell opening that lets you unfold the bag 180 degrees at the security checkpoint without removing your laptop. The tomtoc, SWISSGEAR, LOVEVOOK, and Osprey Farpoint all offer this. Bags without it, like the MATEIN top-loader, force you to pull your laptop out at every scanner.
Durability and Materials
Look for YKK zippers, ripstop nylon or 450D polyester, and reinforced stitching at stress points. The Osprey All Mighty Guarantee and SWISSGEAR 5-year warranty are real signals of build confidence. Zipper failure is the most common complaint in negative reviews across every price tier, so cheap zippers are a dealbreaker.
Comfort and Suspension
If you carry your bag for more than 20 minutes at a time, suspension matters. The North Face FlexVent system on the Jester and Borealis is chiropractor-endorsed, and the Osprey stowaway harness plus adjustable torso fit on the Farpoint is the best in carry-on travel. Padding on shoulder straps and a sternum strap are non-negotiable.
Organization and Pocket Layout
More pockets does not always mean better organization. The SHRRADOO has 20 pockets, which is overkill for most travelers. Look for dedicated laptop sleeve, water bottle pockets, a quick-access top pocket for passport and wallet, and a clamshell opening for the main compartment. The SWISSGEAR and tomtoc hit the best balance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Backpacks
What is the best backpack brand for travel?
Osprey is the best backpack brand for travel based on long-term durability testing and the All Mighty Guarantee. Other top brands include The North Face for comfort, Cotopaxi for organization, and Peak Design for premium design. For budget options, MATEIN and SHRRADOO deliver strong value under $30 with 14,000+ verified reviews.
What is the best backpack to take on a plane?
The best backpack to take on a plane is the Osprey Farpoint 40L because it fits as carry-on on every major domestic airline, opens like a suitcase at TSA, and has a stowaway harness for safe gate-checking. For budget travelers, the MATEIN 40L expands to 45L and weighs only 2.2 pounds empty.
What is a TSA-friendly backpack?
A TSA-friendly backpack is a bag with a lay-flat or clamshell opening that lets you unfold the main compartment 180 degrees at airport security without removing your laptop. The laptop sleeve should also open flat so the scanner can see the device. Top TSA-friendly picks include the tomtoc 40L, SWISSGEAR 1900, and LOVEVOOK 40L.
What is the best backpack for sightseeing in Europe?
The best backpack for sightseeing in Europe is the LOVEVOOK 40L because it is approved by Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue for budget carriers common in European travel, includes packing cubes, and has a waterproof nylon shell for unpredictable weather. The Osprey Farpoint is the premium pick for multi-week trips across multiple countries.
Are anti-theft backpacks worth it?
Anti-theft backpacks are worth it for travel to high-theft destinations like Barcelona, Rome, and major South American cities. Look for lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, hidden compartments, and slash-proof materials. The SWISSGEAR 1900 offers RFID protection at a mid-range price, and the SHRRADOO includes a built-in combination lock for under $30.
Final Verdict: The Best Backpack for Travel in 2026
After three months of testing eight top-rated options, the Osprey Farpoint 40L earns the Editor’s Choice spot for serious travelers because of its stowaway harness, All Mighty Guarantee, and carry-on compliance across every major airline. For budget-focused travelers, the SHRRADOO 50L delivers unmatched storage and a built-in lock under $30. And for eco-conscious buyers, the tomtoc 40L stands out with recycled PET construction and YKK zippers that last.
Whichever of the best backpacks for travel you choose from this list, focus on the three features that matter most on real trips: carry-on compliance, TSA-friendly access, and durable zippers. The rest is personal preference on color, capacity, and price. Safe travels in 2026.
