Are you trying to find the best travel backpack for you based on your budget? Then you’ve come to the right page.
I’ve been a professional traveler for 8 years now, so I know from experience what to look for in a great travel backpack. I’ve also been reviewing tons of backpacks over past five years — and I will share with you my absolute favorites here.
All these reviews are my real opinions after actually using them.
Having tested numerous backpacks, I know how it can be challenging to find one that ticks all the right boxes. I believe a great travel backpack has to be comfortable, easy to organize, and durable as well. Depending on what type of traveler you are, you might also find certain criteria more important than others. After all, a business traveler isn’t going to need the same things as a budget backpacker.
So, whether you’re looking for a cheap backpack for low-budget travel, or a premium backpack for your business travels, I’ll share with you here the best travel backpacks for 2020.
Some of the links in this page are affiliate links through which I may earn a commission, but nothing is ever sponsored.
Latest Update (Feb 2021): added the Salkan Backpacker
Key features to look for
You might be tempted to get the biggest backpack you can find, just in case you need the space. But it’s often better to go with something more lightweight and versatile. That way, you can either use your pack as a carry-on when flying (‘one bag’ style), or you can combine it with other luggage during trips when you need a bit more space.
There are also certain features worth considering:
- Front-loading (you will love this!). Many backpacks are top-loading, with a drawstring to close it at the top. This sucks. It means having to dig around awkwardly to get something from the bottom. Bags with a clamshell design are much nicer: you just zip them open face down, with everything within instant reach.
- Waist strap. Using a waist strap distributes the load around your whole body instead of just your shoulders. It’s essential for avoiding sore shoulders.
- Laptop compartment. A separate padded compartment will keep your electronics secure. Of course, you can also use this for other things like books or your travel journal.
- Rain resistant. You don’t want any water to leak into your bag! Good backpacks are weather-sealed or includs a rain cover.
Some other nice-to-haves include: lockable zippers (O-rings that let you attach a padlock or wire lock to prevent opportunistic theft), good carry handles (for when you’re not wearing it on your back) and internal or external compression straps (this helps you pack more and organize better).
Quick Overview: Choosing the Best Travel Backpack

Tortuga Setout
Best all-purpose
budget backpack
- Excellent organizer compartments
- Great quality + value
- My go-to mid-price recommendation
- Carry-on size

Peak Design 45L Backpack
Best premium
travel backpack
- Amazingly clever design filled with surprising features
- 35L expandable to 45L
- My top backpack if price is no concern
- Carry-on size

Osprey Farpoint 40
A basic but solid pack for backpackers
- Ideal for backpacking & staying in hostels
- More basic features, but it's light, inexpensive and durable
- Carry-on size

Aer Capsule Pack
- Great for city travel & one-bag travelers
- Minimalist design with large main compartment
- Carry-on size

Nomatic 40L Travel Bag
Best for business travel
- Shoe compartment & shirt folder
- Works seamlessly together with rolled luggage
- Plethora of optional accessoiries for hotel & business travel
- Carry-on size

Osprey Porter 46
- Sturdier and a bit better organized than the Osprey Farpoint
- But slightly exceeds carry-on size limit

Salkan Backpacker
Most stylish adventure backpack
- 2-in-1 system (main pack + detachable daypack)
- Water-resistent polyester that feels like canvas fabric
- Height-adjustable harnass
- Ideal for gap years, RTW travel, backpacking & adventuring

Cotopaxi Allpa 42
- Fresh and colorful design - check it out if you like this style!
- Fantastic internal organization (no packing cubes needed)
- Carry-on size

Standard Luggage Carry-On
- A carry-on pack with a classic suitcase-like style
- Lots of pockets and spaces
- Shoulder straps and raincover included
- Carry-on size

Osprey Farpoint 55 Trek
Ideal for long-term & RTW travel
- Like a premium version of the original Farpoint
- Adjustable suspension system, comfortable trampoline-style back & integrated rain cover
- Perfect for long term travel and/or trekking

Osprey Atmos 65
Best for trekking
- Fantastic suspension system with fully adjustable torso length
- Very comfortable and highly padded back panel
- Integrated raincover
Best carry-on travel backpacks
These backpacks you can take on board most airlines without having to check them in. Even if you’re not flying, they are a great medium size.
Tortuga Setout
TOP PICK for all-purpose carry-on travel pack

Pros
- Maximum carry-on size
- Excellent organizer compartments
- Laptop compartment at the back (good for load balance)
- Harness can be stowed and waist belt detached
Cons
- Zippers are weather-resistant but not rubber sealed
- While lightweight, the pack doesn't hold its shape when empty
The Tortuga Setout is a high-quality and attractively priced backpack, making it my go-to recommendation. Despite loads of features, the Setout weighs only about 2kg or 4.6lbs, making it lighter than many other packs.
Its design is quite versatile, making it equally suited to globe-trotting journeys and shorter trips. The main target market is urban/air travel, but I’ve also taken this bag on more adventurous trips (e.g. travel in Asia) where it served me well. For budget travel or backpacking, I like the Setout more than the popular Osprey Farpoint.
As of 2019, there are several Setout editions. The 35L and 45L versions have a large carry-on size. The Setout Divide is a more compact 26L size, but it can expand up to 34L.
All versions have a clamshell design, giving you easy access to all your stuff. The harness has wide comfortable straps, while the back panel comes with proper padding and ventilation space. The latest editions even have load lifter straps (they were missing from the launch versions).
The hip belt is nicely cushioned and has two zipped pockets for quick access. Don’t need that hip belt? Then you can detach the whole thing! The entire harness is entirely stowable as well, turning the Setout into a duffel bag if needed.
The Tortuga Setout currently retails for $199 (via Tortuga’s online shop). Note that Tortuga doesn’t ship internationally, so if you’re not in the US you may want to scroll further and consider other backpacks instead.
By the way, tortuga also sells the Outbreaker, which is aimed at professional travelers. It has increased weather-resistance and its harness can be fully adjusted to your height, but it’s also quite a bit heavier and bulkier. For premium bags, I prefer the Peak Design Travel Backpack.
Peak Design Travel Backpack
TOP PICK for premium carry-on travel bag

Price $299
Pros
- Incredible design, full of beautiful touches
- Highly versatile (35L expands to 45L)
- Great materials & holds its shape
Cons
- I can't think of anything!
This bag may be overkill for budget travelers. But if you don’t mind spending a bit more, then I think Peak Design’s 45L Travel Backpack is simply the best you can get.
Honestly, it’s close to perfect. Using it just feels good. All the little touches — like the magnetic pouches, hidden straps, and clever storage spaces — create a totally fluid experience.
I love that the design is thoughtful and restrained. Other backpacks may tack on too many features, leading to overly tight spaces, too heavy materials, or just too many extraneous elements. Not so with the Peak Design backpack, which is loaded with features but remains lightweight and easy to access.
Its sturdy 400D nylon shell holds its shape when unloaded. The default capacity is 35L, staying well within any airline carry-on size limits, but it can expand to up to 45L.
To get the most out of this backpack, I recommend getting the Peak Design accessories. The toiletry bag, electronics pouch, and packing cubes are just as thoughtfully designed. You can read my full review here or watch my detailed video review below.
Osprey Farpoint 40
Perfect for backpacking and hosteling

Price $160
Pros
- Comfortable suspension system
- Laptop (at the front) & organizer compartment
- Lockable zippers
- Lightweight & budget-priced
Cons
- Not many organizational features
- Ugly green interior (on some versions)
The Farpoint 40 is hugely popular in the backpacking scene. I see them constantly in hostels around the world. I myself once took one on a 2-year round-the-world backpacking trip and was glad to have it with!
There are a few things other bags do better: for example, the laptop compartment is not very strategically placed and there aren’t any clever storage spaces in the main compartment.
But… you can’t beat the Farpoint 40’s combination of price and reliability. This is an amazing backpack for budget travel. If you’re planning to backpack around Southeast Asia or hostel-hop around Europe for the summer, you simply can’t go wrong with the Farpoint 40.
The main thing I like about the Farpoint is nthat it’s super comfortable thanks to a padded back panel, well-padded shoulder straps, and a full-size hip belt. Six different adjustment straps make it easy to distribute the weight along your entire back. Osprey normally makes trekking bags and you can tell this by how nice the harness is.
There’s also the Osprey Fairview 40, which has a women’s specific fit. If you’re going to travel a long time (e.g. a gap year or round-the-world trip) and don’t need your pack to be carry-on sized, consider the Osprey Farpoint Trek. It’s a newer design with some cool improvements.
Aer Capsule Pack
Great all-purpose travel bag (35 or 40 liters)

Price $250
Pros
- Versatile carry-on with loads of space
- One of my favorite organizer compartments
- Can also be carried briefcase or duffel-style
Cons
- Main compartment zipper is a tad stiff
Aer has been making fantastic backpacks for many years now. I previously featured here their Aer Travel Pack 2, which is a great carry-on size backpack for business travel or holidays. But now they have the Aer Capsule Pack, which I like even more for its well-considered and minimalistic design. It’s available in a 35 and 40-liter size.
The Capsule Pack is notable for its rugged and durable 1680D Cordura nylon exterior, which holds its shape even when it’s empty. All the zippers are weather-resistant and the pack has all the features you’d expect from a premium bag. You can wear it as a backpack, or detach and stow the harness and use it in duffel- or briefcase mode.
I think it’s great for business travel, but it can really be used for any type of trip. If you think the Aer Travel Pack or the Nomatic Travel Pack end up slice-and-dicing the space a bit too much (e.g. with separate shoe compartments and such), then the Capsule Pack might be more your thing. While it has a laptop compartment, travel organizer, and so on, the main compartment is left very open for you to use however you see fit. You can read my full review here.
Osprey Porter 46
A bit less comfy than Farpoint, but better organization

Price $140
Pros
- Excellent side-pockets and travel organizer
- Front-loading
- Laptop compartment at the back
- Stow-away harness
- Stiff outer shell protects your stuff
Cons
- Harness more easily stowable… but also simpler and not as padded
- Not quite as easy to squeeze into tight storage spaces
The Porter 46 is an interesting alternative to the Farpoint 40. It seems designed from a different starting point; the Farpoint 40 feels almost like a down-sized trekking bag made suitable for general travel, while the Porter 46 feels like a duffel bag that got upgraded to a backpack.
It has padded walls that stand up, whereas the walls of the Farpoint 40 will fold in when not packed. It has more side-pockets and a better built-in travel organizer. But also its harness is thinner and not as well-padded, making it less ideal for heavier loads or walking long distances. It’s basically more of a city bag.
I think the Porter 46 is more suited for urban/general travel, while the Farpoint is perhaps better for adventure travel. The Porter 46’s frame is slightly clunky and wide and it isn’t quite as comfortable on your back, but it’s a lot easier to store your stuff inside and feels more versatile. It also does a better job of carrying a laptop. You can read my full review here.
Nomatic 40L Travel Bag
TOP PICK for business travel backpack

Pros
- Extremely clever features
- Highly weather resistant material
- Plethora of optional accessories
- Pass-through sleeve for attaching to rolled luggage
- Also works as a duffel
Cons
- A bit over-engineered at times (you have to use everything exactly as intended)
- Too high-tech and pricey for just a casual holiday
This backpack is the result of a successful Kickstarter campaign that promised to create the most functional backpack ever.
And yep, it is ridiculously clever and innovative. You’ll find more packing features on the Nomatic Travel Bag than almost any other backpack. You can even pimp it with accessories like a laundry bag, shirt organizer, toiletry bag, and vacuum compression bag — all designed to work as one integrated system.
I do have two nitpicks. One is that while the exterior is sturdy and weather-sealed, it’s also quite stiff. This can make it feel just a bit cramped.
It might also be bit too tricked out at times. I mean, do you really need a separate book pocket or even an underwear compartment? I do like all the bells and whistles, but not everyone might need these features.
Still, this is an amazing backpack clearly created with professional travelers in mind. Features like the shirt organizer (keeps your shirts wrinkle-free) and the shoe compartment are perfect for business travelers and digital nomads. The bag pairs well with a rolling suitcase with a pass-through sleeve, and the laundry bag is a great hotel-room accessory.
Cotopaxi Allpa 42
A fully featured carry-on with wonderful colors

Price $220
Pros
- Fresh and colorful design
- Shoulder straps and raincover included
- Amazing internal organization (no packing cubes needed)
Cons
- The rubbery 1000D polyester outer shell is love-it-or-hate-it
This carry-on bag is notable in particular for its funky Andean-inspired colors and design. While there is an all-black version available, it’s the colorful versions that really stand out. It’s a great choice for anyone going on a backpacking adventure overseas.
One downside is the rubbery 1000D polyester outer shell, which can look a bit blobby when the pack is not fully filled up. This is mostly an aesthetic issue, but some may wish this bag held its shape a bit more.
However, the internal organization of this backpack is amazing; it’s way better than the popular Farpoint 40 and I even prefer it to the Tortuga Setout and other packs like it. You won’t need packing cubes or additional accessories with the Allpa, as its design has all the pockets and sleeves you would want, including a laptop compartment. A rain cover is included as is a shoulder strap for duffel-style carry.
Another great feature is the hip belt, which can be entirely detached and adjusted based on your height.
The 42-liter size is maximum carry-on and recommended for big trips. For shorter trips or a sleeker design, consider the Allpa 35. You can also read my full review here.
Standard Luggage Co. Carry-On

Price $179
Pros
- Fresh design with color accents
- Loads of pockets and spaces
- Shoulder straps and raincover included
Cons
- Raincover a bit difficult to put on
This carry-on bag by Canadian manufacturer Standard Luggage Co. can be used either as a backpack or duffel using the included shoulder strap. It has some great design touches that make it stand out, which is a key reason for me including it here. I like the color accents, which can be switched between orange and blue (both colors are included).
The suspension system is deliberately kept simple to make it fully stowable, though it does include an adjustable sternum strap, two padded straps, and a nicely padded back. This makes it suitable for any type of trip.
This pack has loads of storage spaces. Most notable is the laptop compartment, which is better than I’ve seen in most other backpacks. You can put your precious laptop inside a protective sleeve, which in turn is held vertically by two straps, and this harness, in turn, sits securely inside the back compartment.
Best larger travel backpacks
Salkan Backpacker
Amazingly stylish and functional backpack for big trips

Price £250 / $345 / €285
Pros
- Super stylish design
- Highly comfortable to wear
- Fully height adjustable
- Loads of space and pockets
- Integrated main pack + day pack system
Cons
- A tad heavy
This pack has two cool tricks up its sleeve. Firstly, it looks and feels utterly like a retro canvas backpack, yet it’s made of a durable and rain-resistant polyester that emulates this look. It’s not just a stylish backpack but one you can take on any adventure and in any weather.
Secondly, the Salkan Backpacker is a 2-in-1 system, with a daypack and main pack that work seamlessly together. You can buy just the daypack or the main pack, or you can buy them together for a lower price.
I was initially skeptical of this debut product from this new UK manufacturer, but when it reviewed it in-depth, it blew me away. I predict you’ll be hearing more about this backpack as word gets around.
It’s not carry-on size, so it’s less ideal for weekend trips or short-haul travel. However, the large space and features make it perfect for any globe-trotting adventure. The main pack is 45 liters (expandable up to 55) and the day pack is 20 liters. This is exactly the pack I’d want to have with me for backpacking Asia or city-hopping around Europe for several months.
It may cost a bit more than comparable backpacks such as those by Osprey, but it sports some amazing looks and has every feature you’d need on a big trip.
Osprey Farpoint Trek 55

Price $219
Pros
- Adjustable suspension system (4 heights)
- Super comfortable trampoline-style back
- Integrated compression system
Cons
- No padded laptop compartment
The Farpoint Trek 55(not to be confused with the regular Farpoint 55) is my new favorite mid-size bag. Unlike what the name suggests, it is not just for trekking. In fact, I’d like to think of it as an upgraded version of the Farpoint series that’s ideal for long-term overland travel.
This bag is perfect if you’ll be going on a big overland trip or planning a round-the-world trip. The additional space compared to a carry-on is great if you have to pack for multiple climates.
It’s also ready for the outdoors, with an integrated rain cover included, and a much more comfortable back system. The suspension system can also be fully adjusted to your torso height, making it much more comfortable than the regular Farpoint.
I would love to take the Farpoint 55 Trek on the South America backpacking trail, where you travel mostly overland and where you also might go on the occasional trek, such as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. While I think carry-on size is nicer if you’re traveling through one climate type or region, this bag is ideal for round-the-world or gap year travel when you may need to pack more gear. The only thing it lacks is a padded laptop compartment.

I prefer the Farpoint Trek 55 over the normal Farpoint 55. The latter has a detachable daypack, but this daypack is not so comfortable to wear. In practice, I also rarely ended up zipping the two bags together. The 55 Trek can still be combined with a compatible daypack, such as the Osprey Daylite Travel. You can read more in my full review.
By the way, besides the Farpoint Trek 55, there is also the women’s specific version, the Fairview Trek 50.
Osprey Atmos 65
TOP PICK for camping or trekking

Price $170
Pros
- Amazing suspension system with fully adjustable torso length
- Very comfortable and highly padded back panel
- Sleeping bag compartment and sleeping pad straps
Cons
- Not the best pick for minimalist or carry-on travellers
- Not a clamshell design (your stuff can be harder to reach)
Finally, this is the backpack to get if your trip is primarily focused on camping or trekking. Keep in mind though that this is a top-loading backpack, so access is more limited in favor of making it more comfortable to wear for longer duration. The backpack also comes with specific features for trekking and has compartments or straps for storing a tent and sleeping mat.
While there are trekking backpacks with heavier frames, but I recommend the Osprey Atmos 65 as it has a good balance between carrying capacity and weight. It has a trekking pole attachment and while a water reservoir isn’t included, you can buy one separately.
There is also the Osprey Aura 65, which is the same backpack but with a women’s fit.
What size backpack for traveling
While many retailers will often push you the biggest or most expensive backpacks, I think carry-on size backpacks are often ideal for most trips. It’s better to have something light and convenient, not something that will bog you down. Carry-on size also lets you save time and avoid additional luggage fees on some airlines.
In some cases you may, of course, need something a bit bigger.
Backpack sizes are typically expressed in liters (i.e., the volume they can contain). You’ll notice that travel packs sometimes have this number in their product name. Thinking in liters might not be totally intuitive, so here are my 2 cents on some of the common sizes:
15-30 L
Too small unless you’re going on a weekend trip, or you’re super minimalist. This size is usually for day-packs or commuter bags.
35-45 L
A happy sweet spot! Perfect for shorter trips but equally for trips lasting many weeks or months (if you know how to pack light). Ideal for traveling within one climate and don’t need to pack for every type of weather. This size is usually accepted as carry-on luggage, saving you time and check-in fees when flying.
50-65 L
Good if you need extra space. Not everyone is a light packer so some will prefer these sizes despite the extra weight.
70-120 L
NOPE. Only for trekking and camping expeditions. The internal support frames often already weigh several kilos or pounds. This is overkill for most travelers. But if you need to store a tent and other gear, this might be the size for you.
Admittedly, I’m a bit of a light packer. In my guide to packing light, I show you exactly how I pack my carry-on bag.
Carry-ons (around 40 liters) are often the best backpacks for traveling — at least, if you’re staying in hotels, apartments, or hostels and don’t need to bring any bulky gear. You’ll end up with less weight on your back, more freedom of movement, and much less hassle.
Quick answer: Best travel backpack overview
Finally, a quick comparison of all the top backpacks mentioned in this post.
- #1 Tortuga Setout — Best Travel Backpack Overall (Carry-On)
- #2 Peak Design 45L — Best Premium Carry-On Backpack
- #3 Osprey Farpoint 40 — Best For Budget Backpacking (Men’s)
- #4 Osprey Fairview 40 — Best For Budget Backpacking (Women’s)
- #5 Osprey Porter 46 — Best Duffel-Style Carry-On Backpack
- #6 Nomatic Travel Bag — Best for Business / Digital Nomads
- #7 Standard Luggage — Best Suitcase-Style Backpack
- #8 Salkan Backpacker — Best For Epic Trips
- #9 Osprey Farpoint Trek 55 — Best Larger Travel Backpack
- #10 Cotopaxi Allpa – Most Colorful Design
- #11 Osprey Atmos 65 — Best Travel / Trekking Backpack (Men’s)
- #12 Osprey Aura 65 — Best Travel / Trekking Backpack (Women’s)
Some links may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn commission from products or services I recommend. Reviews are never paid for or sponsored. You can read about my site policies.
very good comparisson and explanation.
Stay safe
Werner
Have you used the ebay mother lode travel backpack?
Hi Kathy. Yep, review here 🙂
Hi Marek. Thanks for your review. Regarding Peak Design 45L, $300 iscexpensive, but you have no faults. How heavy did you pack it? Can you wear it all day with say 25 lbs of weight? If heavy loaded, I am concerned how much support the waistbelt provides? Also how comfortable shoulder straps are?
Hi Jeffrey, I’ve typically worn it with around 20 – 25 lbs in it. I think it’s great for wearing it while in transit (airport, bus station, etc.) and for, let’s say, 30-60 min periods at a time. For this it’s comfortable. But if you mean literally wearing all day with a heavy load (such on a trek), I would look at something with thicker shoulder straps or a more padded back, such as an Osprey Farpoint 55 Trek or similar.
Amazing breakdown! I can vouch for the Peak Design 45L. I use on a recent camping trip and it held up very well. I like reading your posts. Keep up the good work! Thank, Marek.
Thanks Robert!
Thanks for a great article, it’s useful to have a full breakdown like this, I do like the Osprey Atmos 65
Cheers again
Amazing breakdown! I can vouch for the Peak Design 45L. I use on a recent canoeing/camping trip and it held up very well. It got wet a few times too, and the contents stayed completely dry.
Great content!
Please suggest.
1) I understand from the web that 13 kgs is the perfect weight to carry when going on a never ending holiday where weather will remain same. Although, I could try to fit in a couple of warmers in that weight. Haven’t tried. Since you are an avid traveler, you think it’s possible?
1a)
If yes then which bag is best.
1b)
If no then for dual weather, which bag is best.
I am hoping your suggestions for the above will consider a day hike or two. Means a heavy shoe wear basically, I guess.
2) For long travels where tent and kitchen items will be included, it seems like 65L is best irrespective of the days we wish to travel.
What do you suggest?
Thank you!
Hey Marek, loved your website. I have a question, have you ever tried the Deuter Transit 40. In my country there is not this backpacks, so i read some reviews telling that the Transit 40 is better than the Osprey Farpoint. Tks in advance.
Sorry, haven’t tested it yet!
I would like a backpack that can be used for day hikes up to 12 miles and traveling in different countries. The pack will hold maps, snacks, water, thin jackets and some small items. Please recommend the best pack.
I’m about to review the Osprey Farpoint Trek 55, which is a new variation of this backpack. It’s suitable for travel (e.g. it is front-loading and easy to organize) but also for hikes and treks.
Update: I’ve now reviewed it and highly recommend it for travel + trekking
is the osprey farpoint 55 still too big for carry on if you take the detachable 15L off?
Technically, yes, as it’s a bit too tall. In practice, I’ve been able to get away with it. I didn’t try it on particularly stringent airlines though (like RyanAir in Europe).
Amazing breakdown! I can vouch for the Peak Design 45L. I use on a recent canoeing/camping trip and it held up very well. It got wet a few times too, and the contents stayed completely dry.
What do you think of the Cotopaxi Allpa? doing a 10 day trip across Europe, definitely want to stick to carry on size. cheers!
I love my 85L Osprey Ariel hiking pack. it has side zippers along with drawstring top. I don’t have to empty the whole pack. It also has a hood that is detachable and can be used as a fanny pack/day pack. Also the problem of a hiking pack having all the extra straps getting caught in the convayer belt, a travel bag. Yes it takes a little room but I have found this huge extra bag useful. We have used it to take dirty clothes to wash as well as shopping for food. I am wondering why I never hear any travelers mention using space bags/american tourist roll vacuum sealing bags (for inside your pack/suitcase) I LOVE using them It keeps my clothes separate, dry and clean while giving me more room.
I used the Osprey Farpoint 55 on my recent trip to Prague and it was great to use
Hi Mark,
I’m planning a trip to the UK and Ireland in a week’s time.
I’m not planning to do any multi-day hiking with the backpack, although it would be handy to have something that doubles as a day pack, either for urban use or for short daytime hikes.
I do expect to be moving around a fair bit, though. Moving from City to city mainly.
I’m traveling on Norwegian with one carry on bag, limited to 10 Kg.
Do you have any recommendations for a backpack to fit that requirement, one that falls within a limited budget?
Hey Sean. The Tortuga Setout Divide nicely doubles as a daypack (it expands). I use it as a day to day backpack but you could maybe use it for a longer trip too.
If you have a limited budget, Osprey’s bags (e.g. Farpoint 40) are nice, or even Cabin Zero (the Classic Plus, not the Classic). They’re all carry-on size, should be OK with Norwegian.
Hey Marek, great article. I’m planning a trip around the world starting Feb 2020, and have been eyeballing the Wandrd Hexad Carryall duffle. Do you have any thoughts on it by chance?
Many thanks,
-t
Not checked that one out yet!
The Osprey Porter is available in lots of countries, not just the US. It’s on the Osprey Europe website and I also saw it in shops when I was in Australia and New Zealand.
It would also be great if you could review some Gregory packs, especially the praxus/proxy 65. And compare these to Osprey Porter and Fairpoint/fairview. I can’t find any reviews about the praxus/proxy anywhere.
Yep that’s a new thing – it just got an international release 🙂
Hello there,
Well I was going to order the Tortuga Setout as I’ve seen nothing but great reviews but this longer ships to Canada…I’ve checked out just about everything else out there and found the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Backpack seems to be a close second. Important for me is padded shoulder and hip belt as I’ll be carrying it a lot while hiking and max carry on size as I’ll be gone for 1.5 months, rain resistant…I realize it’s slightly heavier than the Tortuga by .20kg but not too big a deal…just wondering if you have any experience or advise you can offer on this pack? Thanks for this post, it’s been so helpful in my long hunt for the perfect bag.
I’ve only tried the EXP40 not the 45, so I can’t offer any hands-on impressions. I might check it out!
Hey Linda, if still hunting for a camera bag…(you have it probably sorted by now most likely…) then these guys make some groundgear.uk
I got a tote from them couple of years ago and it is a long lasting quality stuff. They make it from a waxed canvas. https://www.groundgear.uk/shoulder-bag/camera-bag-bra%C5%A1%C5%88a-na-fo%C5%A5%C3%A1k-kamera-ta%C5%A1ka-manchester-recycled
Hi, I’ traveling to Japan for 2 weeks next year on spring time, what travel backpack would you recmmend, 55 liters? I’m planning to buy clothes and gifts and sou enirs and I’ll be traveling trough japan…so…55 litres? I’m 1.58 cms tall… help 🙂 thanks!!
If you plan to go shopping then 55L might work out well for you 🙂
Hey
Is it possible to both have the parpoint 40L as carryon, and another daypack for daytrips?
Yeah I’ve done that a lot
In retrospect i see i wasn’t very precise in my formulation. So just i clarify – it is no problem carrying the 40L farpoint + a 22L bagpack through the checkin as a carryon + personal item?
If you think that is a problem, you must be carrying the daypack inside your farpoint?
So which of the 2 are you doing? :))
Thanks in advance
Many airlines let you take a ‘personal item’ in addition to a bag. Usually this is meant for things like a camera, purse, laptop, but if your daypack isn’t filled up to the max (and can fit under your seat) it’s usually fine as a personal item. 🙂
Hey Marek, would you recommend 1) the Fairview 40L plus day pack (e.g Osprey Daylite plus 20L) or 2) the 55L fairview Size s/m – I believe the 40L main pack is often allowed as carry on? and the 15L daypack as my personal item. I keep struggling to decide! Really like the extra compartments in the 40L but like the matching pack on the 55L.
I use the Farpoint 40 all the time and I carry my daypack inside it rather than separately (some budget airlines are very strict about a second carry-on), but it still doesn’t always get into carry-on. I am currently in Mozambique for example, and Air Mozambique has a 7kg weight limit for carry-on, regardless of size. They do weight it and refuse overweight as carry-on.
Also, the dimensions of the Farpoint 40 make it carry-on size for most airlines, but it will not actually hold the full 40 litres unless you stuff it a bit. It’s easy to do and it will take 40 litres, but then it is no longer strictly carry-on.
Have a look at ATD1 backpack, just funded on Kickstarter: it was developed with one bag travel in mind!
Looks interesting
Great post! Super informative!
Peak Design has started recently their new Kickstarter campaign and it seems that this will be the greatest travel pack ever: https://3d713501.kckb.st
The backpack is perfect for light travel, it has a lot of add-ons which makes it a really complete product.
I was using a lot of different backpacks and always there was something missing, seems that this one covers most of the gaps. Here is youtube video with a deep review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WEwXeU_te8
I’m a big fan of their Everyday Backpack and very curious about their new travel pack. I hope to review it soon!
Hi Marek!
I will be travelling SEA for about 3 months and I am looking at Opsrey Atmos 50L as I feel that Farpoint 40L is pretty small for me. I don’t see any recommndation for Atmost 50L but I see you recommending 65L instead. Should I go for for Atmos 50L for my 3 months SEA trip?
Sure, nothing wrong with a 50L size! It’s just over the carry on limit though, so I personally prefer getting a 40 or 45L bag plus a smaller daypack… that gets you up to about 60 liter total and you can still fly without checkin luggage most of the time. If that’s not a concern then you’ll surely be happy with your 50L 🙂
I’m going on a 2 week trip around South America. I plan on packing 4 shirts, 2 pants, 2 shorts, 8 socks & boxers, one pair of shoes, a slim fast drying travel towel, and a sketchbook+drawing pens. Not taking it on this trip but handy to provision for a laptop. Any recommendations? Also out of curiosity, which one is the green bag top right of the first picture? It doesn’t look like any of the ones reviewed.
Well spotted, that bag is a Cabinzero 44L. It’s cheap and comes in many colors but it ultimately wasn’t quite good enough to count as a ‘best’ backpack.
Sounds like you pack pretty minimally so any of the carryon size ones will do quite well 🙂
Hi Marek. Great review of travel backpacks. Is there one that you would recommend that also accommodates a DSL camera and lenses? I am lookin for one that would protect these items when traveling. Thank you.
Yes, you might wanna look at the backpacks by Peak Design! 🙂 http://www.peakdesign.com
Hi Marek, Thank you for the suggestion of peak design. I checked out the website and I am looking for a combination travel pack with area for camera. I want to use the pack for carry on on airline plus traveling in Peru. Any other suggestions?
Hmmm, I thought Peak Design’s new carry-on size packs were already out, but they’re still in Kickstarter phase. Not sure what else to suggest at the moment as camera bags are usually small ones, not full carry on size.
Right now I travel with a Tortuga Setout along with a LowePro Slingshot bag for my camera + 3 lenses. The camera bag still gets accepted as the additional “personal item” on flights.
Hi Linda, check out Tenba BYOB camera inserts. After a lot of research on camera backpacks, I landed on these, which can be put into any bag of your choice and have been one of my best purchases. They are highly customizable, using velcro insert walls. I have now used the size 9 one to carry my Fuji XT-2, 30mm f2, 16mm f1.4 (which is hefty), spare batteries, cables, a mini camera stand, and cleaning stuff in numerous bags, including a tiny foldable backpack which I was very worried about putting the camera into. With the BYOB, it worked like a charm across all my Joshua Tree exploring. I use the BYOB as default camera storage at home and often pop it into my daily leather tote, which also works great in carry on situations where I’m not traveling with backpacks but rather luggage. There are 2 more sizes above mine, so you’re bound to find one that works for your gear.
Wow Thanks Laura! I will check them out.
Thanks for a great article. But in your list up above you jump from the 15 -30 litre size and go to the 40 – 45 litre size, skipping the 30 -40 litre size.
Anyways, traveling the world and having used several other larger bags in the past, I’m now super happy with my Minaal 2.0, a 35 litre convertible backpack/duffel bag clamshell style with zip away should straps with load lifters, removable waist belt, lockable YKK heavy duty zips and included rain cover. I think it’s the last bag I need. And they always let me carry it on the planes. No bag checking, no waiting at the carousels. I love it.
Thanks, good article.
Just wanted to add that I traveled many many times with the Osprey 55 as carry-on without any issues, and fully loaded by the way. Which was truly heavy.
It’s a great pack, but nowadays Im looking to travel lighter and downgrade to the osprey 40.
Excellent and thorough breakdown and comparison, Marek! I’m curious if you have checked out the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel pack? It seems extremely comparable to your Tortuga Setout, both in features and price. The Allpa has all the critical features for the minimalist nomadic lifestyle: carry-on size, padded hip belt w pocket, stowable straps, lockable YKK zippers, suitcase-style opening, comfy & breatheable mesh back support, 15″ laptop compartment, water resistant (+rain cover), as well as modular add-ons like a mesh water bottle sleeve. Although I personally prefer the look of the Setout, the Allpa is aesthetically pleasing, too. Also, worth mentioning that Cotopaxi is a fantastic company, donating 2% of revenue to alleviate poverty, sourcing recycled materials, and organizing an annual nation-wide 24hr “Questival” adventure race. If you haven’t experienced Cotopaxi’s product yet, I highly encourage you do.
Hey Nate. I just discovered Cotopaxi a few weeks ago, so I haven’t had a chance to look at their stuff yet. But now that you mention it here too, I think it’s time for me to check it out! I like that they’re doing something very different with their color schemes.
Great list and write up! It’s nice to read a pack review from an actual user. The Setout is currently at the top of my list but I was wondering if you have ever tried the Tortuga Outbreaker or the Aer Travel Pack. The Aer is a little smaller and doesn’t have a waist belt but I rarely use them so I’m not really concerned. Thanks!
Hi Nick. I have the Outbreaker and am doing a review of it soon. I like the fully adjustable suspension system – this is especially great if you’re a lot taller or shorter than average. If you have a medium torso height, then I think this is less important. I slightly prefer the materials and design of the Setout, and it’s a bit lighter too. Haven’t looked at the Aer Travel Pack yet!
Marek,
Curious, what kind of shoes are they in the pic with the backpacks? The brown boots, they look dope.
Hey Howie. They’re walking shoes by Merell. I can’t quite seem to find the exact model on their site though, sorry!
Thanks Marek! I can’t seem to find them anywhere. You must’ve bought a while ago. Enjoy your travels!
I got them at a Merell store in Lisbon just a few months ago. They were on sale though so maybe they were the last ones!
What is your recommendation if you also want to carry camera gear? My son and I are going on a trip to Costa Rica in May and plan to stay at hostels. We are taking backpacks to make it easier to go from place to place, but also want to go hiking to take a lot of photos. Your packing video gave me a lot of great ideas. Thank you for all the information. My son backpacks all over the world, and this is my first time going with him.
Hey Ellen. Great question. Right now I travel with the Tortuga Setout as a main bag, and a small CaseLogic camera bag as a daypack. It’s quite inconspicuous but still fits my micro four-thirds camera + 3 small lenses (it has a special compartment for these). I used to have a Peak Design Everyday Backpack which is incredible as a camera bag and daypack, but it sadly got stolen. For something a bit budget friendly the CaseLogic bags are quite nice to use for during the day.
Hi Marek
Have you tried the One Planet packs at all? They are made from heavy duty canvas and all the travel packs have attachments for a daypack. They tend to be a bit more pricey, but are made for the most part in their factory in Melbourne, Australia. I’d love to hear any feedback you may have about them!
Caitlin
Hadn’t heard of these yet – will check them out!
I have a One Planet 65 pack (I believe they don’t make my model anymore)-got it in 2003 and still going strong. Has been all around the world and very durable. Now looking at smaller backpacks but will definitely drag my One Planet out if going on extended camping/hiking trips. Would recommend for sure. Very durable and holds up well in heavy rain without a rain cover even. Great front loader style and can fit pretty much everything in it. No rips/no problems with zips-very sturdy.
Detailed analysis. Thanks for sharing.
Great overview of backpacks, and good timing. I am currently looking to buy a new backpack. Thanks for the tips!
Wow, pretty indepth analysis of all these packs. You really did your homework.
Thank you brother Marek for your size guide and recommendations for backpacks! I will go to the Malaga of Spain from Finland by Air international Norwegian at Autumn in this year without anyone but with my Adonai Messiah Yahuah.
My trip plan is from Torremolinos 2 nights→Fuengilola 1 night → Ronda 3 nights → El Chorro 3 nights → Alora 3 nights → Malaga 2 nights
God bless you!
For my last trip, I looked for a travel pack and packable daypack to meet the 7-kg carry-on allowance of regional carriers within Australia, New Zealand and SE Asia. After reading hundreds of reviews, I chose the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Osprey’s Ultralight Stuff Pack. The Farpoint in the S/M torso size is 38 litres and the surprisingly comfortable stuff pack is 18 litres. The best I could do was a packed weight of 8 kg and the size of the Farpoint is such that it didn’t attract undue attention and passed for carry on for all 9 flights. The Farpoint has a great harness and hip belt, making it very comfortable for walking and jumping on and off public transportation.
I notice that everyone casually accepts the words ‘carry on size’ as if that was a universal given.
I am perhaps more aware of the sometimes huge variation because AirNZ has a 7kg (118cm 46″ LWH total) carry on limit which means checked in unless you are super good at this lightweight thing
I did 2 weeks Sydney & NZ South Island in spring with a 35l North Face Terra, weighed 10kg (had to check in at CHC). Looking to upgrade to a panel loader because top loading makes hell of noise when packing in a hostel at 7am!!! Aer, Slicks & Minaal looking real good. Anyone thoughts on these brands?
I used to travel with the MEI Voyageur, and then the Tortuga, both are great bags, and max size for carry-on. I easily traveled for four months on two south east Asia trips. Once with my MEI Voyageur, and a second trip with my Tortuga. Now I recently bought the even smaller 35 litre Minaal, with the waist belt attachment, and can’t be happier. Being 65 now, I simply don’t want to shoulder a heavy loaded bag anymore. Travelling lite, with a bag I don’t have to check, even makes me feel freer. I can live out of my Minaal for months and months. Even years if I wish. Have safe travels.
To me, best backpack for traveling is Osprey Farpoint 55 because of its features. I always love backpacks with high capacity. It is extremely useful for long day traveling. I don’t really like the color but the cost if fine. Recommended for any new backpacker.
The Osprey Farpoint 55 was the perfect backpack for my 3 week trip to Prague and Munich for Ocktoberfest. Thanks for the advice Marek.
Anyone have any thoughts on the Eagle Creek Systems Go Duffel Pack 60L? Need a new pack and am not sure between this and something like the Osprey Farpoint, but not sure how I feel about the detachable day pack.
I’m looking at getting the Osprey Farpoint 55 but am concerned in case I try to get it through as hand luggage and fail! Would I get charged in countries around South East Asia or be sent to check in my bag and miss my flight etc? I was thinking that if the large part counted as my hand luggage then the small rucksack as the carry-on?
The main bag is a little bigger than the usual maximum carry-on size. That said, I’ve not had problems using it as carry-on. Of course there are no guarantees and different airlines have different allowances, but I’d say you should be able to get away with it at least most of the time.
If it’s a big source of worries, the Farpoint 40 will definitely work as carry-on as it’s within the size limits.
Great post, Marek. I especially like the size chart, and your easy-to-scan list of positives and negatives on the various travel bags. Have you tracked down a Tortuga yet? if so, I’d be interested in your comments. I’m keen to see the specifications on the V3 updated model coming out soon. I travel with the eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible at 54 litres (expandable to 60). I’d like to go a little smaller, and get a bag with a decent hip belt. The Tortuga might be it.
Tortuga will be updating their backpacks at the end of 2017 and so I’ve got an order in to review them when the newest model comes out… so stay tuned 🙂
Hi Guys, I am planning for a trip to south east Asia for one and a half months. Obviously I need to carry lots of stuff for such a long time. I am not able to understand which kind of backpack will be suitable for such a long trip. Any suggestion folks?
Get a good travel backpack of 40L or so. The climate in Southeast Asia is quite consistently tropical so it’s easy to pack light. You don’t need a bigger bag because you’re travelling longer, this is actually a misconception! 🙂 Just take what you need for 7 to 10 days and do laundry when needed (it’s cheap and easy to do this in SEA).
You might benefit from reading my post on how to pack or my book which deals a lot with how to pack for a longer trip.
No, you do not need to carry lots of stuff. I pack the same whether I go for two weeks in northern Ontario, Canada, or for four months in south east Asia. My present bag for travel is only a 35 litre Minaal. My previous bags were both carry on size. About 45 litre, and I’ve learned how to go even smaller and lighter.
Why would you need more??? Every item you take, you should ask yourself, “Am I really going to use this enough to justify having it take up room and weight, carrying it around on my back everywhere I go for a month or longer?”
I have tried many bags to travel with and nothing has come close to the Pacsafe bags, strong, safe and stylish, my laptop, phone all very safe, incredible features you don’t find on other bags.
I am heading to Guatemala for a 2-week backpacking trip this August. More often than not I will be staying in hostels, but there is a good chance I will be hiking and camping (max 3 nights). Not too much extra gear: hammock w/ mosquito net and rain cover, hiking shoes, water proof jacket, maybe a few other various items. Would you still recommend a travel pack vs. a trekking pack?
I would probably buy your gear for the situations you need it in most. You could go either way, but it sounds like you’ll be camping pretty light so a travel backpack could work just fine.
HUGE fan of the Osprey Farpoint 40 – been traveling full time with it for the last 2+ years. Fair price and of course the All Mighty Guarantee can’t be beat!
Hi Marek,
I just wanted to say I was inspired by your more minimalist approach to backpacking, and have taken your advice & purchased an Farpoint 40 pack for my upcoming RTW trip. Having tried it out, I’m so impressed by how much you can fit in it & yet it still feels super light. Happy travels indeed 🙂
Hi Marek,
Recently picked up the Osprey Ozone 46, how do you think it compares to the Farpoint 40?
The Osprey Ozone line is mainly wheeled luggage (not backpacks). I believe there’s also an Ozone branded backpack that’s only sold in the US which is possibly the one you have (I haven’t seen this bag as I’m Europe based). I believe it was originally intended for attaching to wheeled luggage. I imagine the Ozone 46 is just as capable as the Farpoint 40, just designed from a different starting point.
I’m no ultra minimalist but my Stratos 34 litre backpack works like a magic while I travel the world. All my toiletries are Lush solids so packs to a small space (probably even smaller than most men have it). All excess baggage is just putting a strain on the journey and anything more than mid-30 litres would not allow me to see the world as I best could. Then again, I don’t carry a laptop or too many clothes and my fujix100 is smaller than a dslr. This just as a comment to those who wonder whether a 30 something backpack is enough. It surely is!
Thanks for sharing Maria!
For a slim body built person, is a 30L enough to pack everything?
I would like to say yes, and I actually have a friend who backpacked all over Europe with a 30L. I think it takes a very minimalistic approach to packing though (for instance no electronics, or only 1 pair of footwear, etc.). Personally I’d go one step bigger, but if you can pull it off I’d say go for it! 🙂
I went with the Farpoint 40 initially but ended up returning it for the 55, which was my original choice. I really dislike the front laptop compartment on the 40. It seems badly designed and takes away valuable space from the main compartment.
I need a permanent daypack (rather than a packable one) and don’t mind checking the main bag, so the Farpoint 55 suits me fine.
Hi Marek,
The Tortuga backpack might also meet what you are looking for; basically these two guys hated their backpacks and they built their own. It gets pretty good reviews, I was planning on getting one for my RTW trip, have you heard anything good or bad about it?
I saw some of the reviews of the Tortuga backpack. They seem to squeeze every last inch out of the carry-on baggage allowance which is cool. The other ones listed here I’ve been able to actually try and see in real life, but not the tortuga one yet. Trying to track one down, so I can maybe add it here later!