Selecting the perfect travel backpack can transform your journey by providing optimal comfort, durability, and organization. Based on expert reviews and recommendations, here are the must-have travel backpacks for 2025.
1. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
This backpack is the quintessential choice for travelers seeking versatility and style. Expandable from 35L to 45L, it accommodates various needs, whether for a weekend getaway or a creative professional’s essentials. The dual side access allows easy retrieval of contents without unpacking the entire bag.
Crafted with weatherproof zippers and a sleek design, it withstands diverse conditions, making it a reliable companion. Inside, customizable dividers help organize gear, while dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves ensure your tech is secure.
Designed for modern travelers, it combines aesthetics with functionality, making it a top choice for 2025. Whether you’re navigating through airports or exploring urban landscapes, this backpack caters to all.
2. Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40L
The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40L stands out as the ideal choice for backpackers. Known for its lightweight construction, it ensures comfort during long hauls. Its supportive hip and chest straps distribute weight evenly, reducing fatigue on extended adventures.
This backpack meets airline carry-on requirements, making it a versatile option for global explorers. Lockable zippers and a stowaway harness add extra security, while a padded laptop sleeve offers tech protection.
Whether traversing a bustling city or backpacking through nature, this pack adapts seamlessly, offering both convenience and peace of mind.
3. Nomatic 40L Travel Bag
For the weekend traveler, the Nomatic 40L Travel Bag offers a blend of style and practicality. Its convertible design allows it to shift from a duffel to a backpack, catering to different travel styles and preferences.
Built with TSA-friendly features, it eases the stress of airport security checks. Inside, sleek compartments keep belongings organized, while the durable material ensures longevity.
This bag doesn’t just look good; it performs excellently under pressure. With its thoughtful design, it’s perfect for quick getaways where efficiency and style are a must.
4. Tortuga Travel Pack (40–45L)
Urban travelers will find the Tortuga Travel Pack to be their perfect match. Offering 40-45L capacity, this backpack is designed as a full-size carry-on that maximizes space without sacrificing organization.
Its smart layout includes compartments for everything from clothes to tech gadgets, ensuring that each item has its designated spot. The pack’s urban-friendly design makes navigating crowded streets and public transport a breeze.
With its focus on practicality and style, the Tortuga Travel Pack stands as an essential tool for city explorers aiming to keep their travels streamlined and fashionable.
5. Osprey Aether Plus 70L / Aura 50L
Long-term explorers will appreciate the Osprey Aether Plus 70L and Aura 50L for their impressive capacity and comfort. Designed for extensive travels, these backpacks provide ample space to store all necessities for prolonged adventures.
The comfy harness system ensures that even when fully loaded, the weight is distributed evenly, reducing strain on the back and shoulders. This makes it ideal for those embarking on journeys far from the beaten path.
Durable and reliable, these backpacks are more than just carriers; they’re partners in exploration, enhancing the adventure with their thoughtful design and supportive features.
6. Matador Globerider 45L
Efficiency and organization define the Matador Globerider 45L. Its compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for travelers who prioritize efficient space utilization without compromising on storage capacity.
The backpack’s clever layout includes internal dividers and weather-sealing zippers, ensuring that valuables remain protected and organized. A stowable waist belt adds comfort and support during longer treks.
Ideal for extended trips, the Matador Globerider combines practicality with sleek aesthetics, offering travelers a reliable and stylish option for their adventures.
7. Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L
For gear-intensive travels, the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a standout choice. This backpack accommodates a wide array of gear, making it ideal for extended trips where packing flexibility is key.
Its easy-carry design includes a comfortable harness and handles, ensuring smooth transitions between locations. The organized interior allows for efficient packing, with a design that makes accessing items straightforward.
With its rugged build and practical features, this backpack is perfect for travelers who need to carry a diverse range of items without compromising on comfort or organization.
8. Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
Commuters and day-trippers will find the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L to be a perfect fit. This backpack combines organizational intelligence with a streamlined design, making it ideal for urban environments.
Its compact size doesn’t skimp on functionality, featuring multiple compartments to keep essentials organized. The sleek exterior and durable material ensure it can handle the rigors of daily commutes.
Whether heading to the office or exploring a new city, this backpack offers both style and practicality, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a reliable day-to-day companion.
9. Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack (≈40 L)
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack for its affordability and rich features. Despite its lower price point, this backpack includes valuable features like a laptop sleeve and expandable storage.
Designed to meet carry-on requirements, it simplifies air travel while providing ample space for essentials. Its durable construction ensures longevity, making it a cost-effective choice for frequent travelers.
With its functionality and budget-friendly price, this backpack proves that quality doesn’t always come at a high cost. It’s an excellent option for those looking to save without sacrificing essential travel features.
10. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
For those who crave adventure and vibrancy, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L shines as an alternative top pick. Its rugged design not only withstands tough travel conditions but also turns heads with its bold colors.
The backpack’s organization is exceptional, featuring multiple compartments that ensure everything has its place. A full wraparound zipper offers easy access, while its carry-on compatibility simplifies airport transit.
Combining functionality with a lively design, this pack is perfect for both urban and off-the-beaten-path journeys. It’s more than just a bag—it’s a statement for the bold traveler.
11. Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L
The Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L offers durability in a compact form, making it an excellent choice for carry-on or day trips. Known for its weather-resistant material, it protects belongings from the elements while maintaining a sleek profile.
This backpack’s design includes a spacious main compartment and a padded sleeve for tech devices, ensuring all essentials are securely stored. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, whether navigating crowded airports or exploring the great outdoors.
Ideal for minimalists and adventure seekers alike, this backpack combines practicality with a rugged aesthetic, proving that good things come in small packages.
12. Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack
With its stylish design and functional features, the Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack appeals to those who value both aesthetics and practicality. This backpack is lightweight and features multiple compartments for organized storage.
Its neoprene material provides a sleek look and offers durability, while the design ensures that essentials are easily accessible. Perfect for city travel, it’s a chic option for the modern traveler.
Balancing form and function, this backpack is ideal for those who want to make a statement while keeping their belongings organized and secure. It’s more than just a bag; it’s a travel accessory that enhances any outfit.
13. Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack (15″)
The Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack is a sleek and functional choice for those prioritizing tech organization. Designed with a dedicated laptop compartment, it ensures that devices are secured during travel.
Its compact design meets carry-on standards, making it perfect for business trips and quick getaways. The modern aesthetics complement its practical features, offering both style and convenience.
Whether heading to a meeting or catching a flight, this backpack serves tech-savvy travelers well, providing peace of mind with its protective and organized layout.
14. Embark 21″ Adventure Backpack
For long journeys, the Embark 21″ Adventure Backpack is a reliable companion. Known for its generous organization, it offers ample space to store all travel essentials while maintaining a neat interior.
Its durable design withstands the demands of travel, providing peace of mind for those embarking on extended adventures. The backpack’s ergonomic design ensures comfort, even when packed to capacity.
Perfect for wanderers seeking both organization and durability, this backpack is more than just a vessel for belongings—it’s a trusted partner in exploration, ready to tackle the challenges of any adventure.
15. Thule Aion 40L
Tech enthusiasts will find the Thule Aion 40L to be the ultimate travel backpack. Its smart design includes a secure laptop compartment and various features tailored for tech-heavy travelers.
Streamlined and secure, this backpack ensures that all devices and accessories are well-protected during transit. The thoughtful layout facilitates easy access to essentials without compromising on organization.
Ideal for those who rely on technology, whether for work or play, this backpack offers both security and style, making it a top choice for digital nomads and tech-savvy travelers.
