13 best travel backpacks, from carry-on to adventuring in 2024
With summer holidays fast-approaching, these travel backpacks will see you through your trip, and they’ll save you lots of time at the airport.
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If you plan on embarking on your first-ever adventure or simply aim to cross more destinations off your bucket list this year – ridding yourself of any unnecessary stress is important.
And along with a great suitcase, having a solid, comfortable and functional travel backpack is a must-have for adventuring stress-free, and will save you so much time in the process.
With one of these, there’s no more waiting at the airport for your checked luggage.
Instead, all your essentials are in their respective pockets, and they’re easy-to-reach.
Sounds like the ideal situation, right?
That’s why we’ve rounded up the best travel backpacks and hybrid duffle bags that are reliable and frequent flyer approved – including the top-rated Caribee Traveller Backpack, which we’ve tried and tested out so you don’t have to.
And trust us, it’s a great option will other shoppers saying it’s “totally worth buying” and “excellent quality”.
Scroll on to see more of our top picks.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR’S PICK - BEST BACKPACKS FOR TRAVEL
Caribee Traveller Carry-On Backpack 40L Capacity, $134.90 at Amazon Australia
Caribee Traveller Carry-On Backpack
What You Need To Know
Offering a large front pocket which is great for quick access to items, this backpack has split level packing compartments (including a padded laptop compartment) to keep your gear organised and separated.
It also has a rear padded zip pocket for your laptop, grab handles, oversized water bottle pocket, concealable backpack straps that you can easily tuck away as well as a concealable shoulder bag strap for those days when you want to use it as a duffle. Not to mention, it also has rear luggage trolley loops so you can sit it securely on top of your larger suitcase.
Five-star reviewers on Amazon say it’s “totally worth buying”.
“Not often do you get that feeling of ‘this is totally worth what I paid for it’ feeling. This backpack gives me that feeling. Totally worth buying. I love the fact that it has a water repellent bottom on it. This is a necessity that is often overlooked. Beautiful thick padded shoulder straps are great. Super comfortable. Good big water bottle holder too. Totally impressed! Good quality with beautiful material. Looks excellent too,” one wrote.
Tried and Tested by Troy Nankervis, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I’ve already been a pretty big fan of Caribee, their products in my experience have been high quality and the same goes for their Traveller Carry-On Backpack.
It’s a great size and comfortable to wear, and I like how this one also doubles as a duffle bag if need be.
Like similar products out there, there’s concealable padded straps (which are padded and super comfortable), or there’s also a detachable shoulder strap, so you can use the product in a variety of ways depending on how you’re travelling.
This could be great for short overnight stays, or a week away in Bali or places with warmer climates if you just want carry-on luggage (as the name suggests), alternatively you could also use this as check in luggage too.
It’s a very small feature but I love the water bottle pocket, that’s going to be really convenient for me, plus the laptop pocket has been designed for easy access.
Essentially, if you want to travel smart, the Caribee Traveller Carry-On Backpack will get you well on your way to wherever you’re heading.
Coowoz Large Travel Backpack, $71.70 at Amazon Australia
Coowoz Large Travel Backpack
What You Need To Know
Made from a durable waterproof polyester material, this bag has two adjustable padded shoulder straps for lightweight carrying and shoulder pressure relief. It features three main pockets, one 14-inch laptop compartment and multiple inner and side pockets for any extra bits and bobs, it also has a shoe compartment (!!!) as well as a wet bag pocket for keeping wet clothes and towels separated from your dry items.
Boasting a 4.6-star rating with more than 11,000 five-star ratings and over 1000 reviews, many shoppers have said the backpack is the “ultimate travel companion”.
“Lots of handy compartments, especially the vented shoe bag inside. Fits all your electronics and personal items with great pockets for passports etc,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
Another said: “The spacious interior and multiple compartments allow me to organise my belongings efficiently, while the durable and waterproof material ensures that my items stay safe and dry, even in unpredictable weather conditions.”
Bellroy Transit Backpack, $269 at Amazon Austalia
Bellroy Transit Backpack
What You Need To Know
Featuring a 15” laptop compartment, dual compartments to keep your clothes separate, external-access pockets for easy access to a passport, wallet, water bottle and more, front pocket with key leash, soft-lined sunglasses pockets, padded shoulder straps for comfort and a sternum strap. It’s also made from a durable, water-resistant fabric that makes it suitable for travelling around the world or for everyday and work.
It currently has a 4.7-star rating on Google with reviewers hailing it a “great travel bag”.
“The Bellroy Transit is pretty much the ideal travel bag for me,” one wrote.
“You can fit everything You need for backpacking or long term travel in the bag if you’re a strategic packer, and the bag has just enough storage without ending up with a bunch of pockets you never use. The bag is also very well built. I honestly can’t see myself managing to break it with even remotely normal wear and tear.”
Another wrote: “Just the right size. Big enough to carry a laptop, some clothes and more but compact enough to be comfortable to carry. The quality of the fabric is great and the laptop sleeve is nice.”
Herschel Little America 25L Backpack, $215.79 at Amazon Australia
Herschel Little America Backpack
What You Need To Know
What kind of backpack roundup would it be if we didn’t include Herschel? This bag has a padded and fleece-lined 15” laptop compartment, internal pocket, zippered front pocket with key leash, drawcord closure, magnetic strap fastening and contoured padded shoulder straps.
One five-star reviewer on Myer says it’s “a backpack you want to wear”.
Another five-star reviewer wrote: “Sturdy, spacious, good looking backpack for both men and women. It’s perfect for travellers and for commuters who need to carry a lot of things with them to work.”
“The laptop sleeve easily fits and protects my 14” laptop and some small notebooks. The main pouch was surprisingly large; it easily holds all of my laptop accessories, purse contents, a water bottle, and my lunch bag. The straps magnetically connect to the bag, but are sturdy enough to stay in place while still allowing quick access to your things,” they added.
Cotinga Pack 25L, $76.99 (down from $109.00) at Kathmandu
Cotinga Pack 25L
What You Need To Know
Made from recycled polyester, this backpack has a main compartment with inner pockets to organise all your essentials, 15” laptop sleeve, padded shoulder straps with an adjustable sternum strap, secure front pocket with a key loop, side drink bottle pocket and reflective details.
Five-star reviewers say it’s a “fantastic all-round bag”.
“You cannot go wrong with this bag – functional for school, work, leisure, outdoors. Fantastic quality. Well worth the money!” one wrote.
The ReNew Transit Backpack, $156 at Everlane
The ReNew Transit Backpack
What You Need To Know
Made from 100 per cent recycled polyester with a water-resistant finish, this bag features a 15” laptop pocket, catch-all zip pockets for easy access to passports, tickets and wallets, interior slip pockets, two water bottle holders, magnetic flap closure and a luggage strap.
It currently holds a 4.7-star rating with over 400 five-star reviews.
“The perfect backpack. Super roomy without being too big. Super comfortable without being overly padded or sporty. Perfect mix of professional and cute. Perfect amount of organisation – useful and intuitive without being too fussy or inflexible. I am nothing but pleased and receive compliments everywhere I go,” one wrote.
Another wrote: “I love it for travel – fits well under the seat with everything I need for long haul flights, including a messenger bag or other handbag for wallet/essentials/nights out and shoes for dressier affairs. It’s great for taking along baby needs, whether travelling, out for a walk, etc. At home I like to keep it in my car to go from gym to grocery store, meetings with laptop, etc, and just pull out what I need for each thing. Highly recommend.”
BEIS The Backpack, $130.03 at BEIS Travel
BEIS The Backpack
What You Need To Know
Designed with a front zip pocket, large main zip compartment, padded laptop sleeve (up to 14”), luggage strap, key leash, two water bottle pockets and water-resistant inner lining. She’s cute, practical and perfect for school, work, travelling and everything in-between.
One five-star reviewer says it’s “the perfect bag for travelling or an overnight stay”.
“I absolutely adore this bag! It’s the best carry-on bag for me and I can fit everything I need in it. The perfect bag for travelling or an overnight stay!” they raved.
Another reviewer wrote: “Perfect travel companion. Fits right under the seat in front of you. So much stuff inside including the computer and the feature that makes it open all the way is very helpful.”
Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack, from $75.23 at Amazon Australia
Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack
What You Need To Know
Made from durable polyester, this backpack features three exterior handles, multiple organisational compartments, laptop sleeve, adjustable straps, sternum strap and a removable shoulder strap for when you want to carry it like a duffle.
“Value for money travel backpack. Was sceptical at first when purchasing before a 2 month European trip due to the cheap price/brand when compared to other travel backpacks. Lived/travelled entirely out of the backpack while travelling 16 countries over the 2 months and have nothing but good things to say about the backpack – great value for money,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“This is my favourite travelling bag. Get in and out fast. It holds everything I have and more. Perfect for Jetstar, it fits their requirements without charging you extra. Used it a bunch of times and holds up very well with nothing broken and no issues. This is a similar size to a rolling carry-on luggage, but you save weight without having the wheels and frame of the rolling one. Which is great if you are only allowed a certain weight like 7kg. I would definitely buy this again and recommend it to travellers,” another wrote.
Tried and Tested by Troy Nankervis, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I didn’t realise until quite recently that Amazon has a wide range of its own in-house products, and that includes this Carry-On Travel Backpack, which is part of the Basics range. This is a great option if you’re after a new travel backpack.
This one feels very sturdy and I’m pretty happy with the feel and quality of the fabric, which is made from polyester. It strikes a great balance between being lightweight and sturdy enough for time on the road and through airports.
The storage and added extras are smart and considered, on the front of the backpack there’s a great pocket for your passport and travel documents, while there are two larger sections, one for your clothes (which expands) and another pocket which can store a laptop and personal belongings like books, snacks and a water bottle.
There are some other nice design touches, including a side handle, carry strap, and shoulder straps that can be concealed if need be.
I am also a fan of the blue fabric, which makes it easy to identify among overhead carry-on luggage, or if you’re waiting in the airport for it to appear on the carousel.
The price is also a great selling point, which is currently starting at $75.23. If you’re after an upgrade to your carry-on luggage, that will be able to get you through a week or so on the road, this one is definitely worth your attention.
Volher Laptop Backpack, $50.99 from Amazon Australia
Volher Laptop Backpack
What You Need To Know
This Volher backpack has a dedicated compartment for laptops up to 15.6 inches in size, plus plenty of space for your iPad, chargers, and even clothes.
It’s designed for comfort with ventilated padding and adjustable shoulder straps, making it easy to carry around when you’re on the move.
For added convenience, there’s also a luggage strap for easy travel and a hidden antitheft pocket to keep your valuables safe. Plus, it includes a built-in USB charger and is made from durable, water-resistant fabric, making it perfect for students, professionals and intrepid travellers.
It’s also rated highly on Amazon with more than 2,000 positive 5-star reviews, with buyers left impressed by the quality, compartment size, as well as its level of comfort during use.
“This backpack is comfortable and sturdy. Love that you can charge your devices easily. Has a lot of compartments, so it’s easy to divide items and know where they are. The secret compartment is great. Fits well and fits a lot in it. Great for travelling,” wrote one customer.
Another said: “Nothing to dislike about this pack. Good build and material, sturdy, functional and lightweight. Perfect low cost and quality product for business travellers, or any one needing a decent flight pack.”
BEST HYBRID DUFFLE BACKPACKS FOR TRAVEL
Fjallraven Kanken Weekender, $309.11 at Amazon Australia
Kanken Weekender
What You Need To Know
This weekend bag is made from a durable Vinylon fabric and features its iconic handles, a zippered front pocket, signature reflective logo, main zip compartment and a front compartment that expands or collapses – so you can use it for shoes, a towel or to keep laundry separate from your other essentials. It’s also available in a range of colourways to suit your vibe.
“Perfect size for travel, extremely convenient for weekend trips or wanting some extra space in carry-on luggage,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
G4Free Sports Duffel Backpack, $60.99 at Amazon Australia
G4Free Sports Duffel Backpack
What You Need To Know
For long weekends away or overseas travel, this duffle bag will be your new companion. Made from 100 per cent nylon, it offers three ways to carry: shoulder bag, handbag or backpack, thanks to its hidden backpack straps and detachable shoulder strap. Designed with a separate shoe compartment with an air hole, sternum strap, a wet pocket for wet clothing, and a main zip compartment with inner pockets – it also has a carry handle, two-way zippers and a water-resistant finish.
One five-star reviewer says it’s “good value for money”.
“Good bag. Lightweight, but zips feel sturdy. Can pack up small when not in use. Useful pockets. Love that it can be carried as a holdall or backpack, makes it versatile and comfortable for travel. Colour is nice, however not the most practical as it shows marks easily. Despite this, I’m happy with my purchase!” they wrote.
Nordace Henge 45L Carry-On Backpack, $214.48 at Nordace
Nordace Henge 45L Carry-On Backpack
What You Need To Know
Designed to be packed like a suitcase, this bag has a large main compartment that opens 180 degrees to give you full access to your travel essentials, organisational pockets, 17” laptop compartment, front pocket, 1500mL water bottle pocket, detachable hip belt with a pocket, hidden pocket with RFID blocking technology to safely carry your passport and money, USB charging port, compression shoulder straps for stability, sternum strap, luggage strap to pop it securely on your suitcase and a retractable key leash.
One five-star reviewer wrote: “Excellent travel backpack. Heaps of room to fit everything that is needed in a carry on. So much more practical than a suitcase as it leaves your hands free. It is so good that we are getting a second one.”
“One of the best backpacks I’ve ever owned. So well made, excellent design, versatile & lightweight. Perfect for FIFO, short & long trips for men & women. Just love it!” another wrote.
Base Camp Duffel – XS, $200 at The North Face
Base Camp Duffel - XS
What You Need To Know
It has a main compartment with mesh pockets for organisation, detachable adjustable shoulder straps, four compression straps, ID window, padded side handles and D-zip opening with a weather-resistant flap.
One five-star reviewer hailed it “the perfect carry on”.
“I love this bag! I have been looking for a weekend bag which is large enough for all my stuff as a chronic over-packer but small enough to use as hand luggage on short haul flights. Having seen the larger sizes of the base camp duffle around, I thought I would give the XS a try and it does not disappoint! The bag itself is very durable and easy to organise – I love the fact that it opens up fully like a duffel but you can wear it as a backpack. The straps are also surprisingly comfortable, even after a full travel day,” one wrote.
HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT TRAVEL BACKPACK?
When searching for the perfect travel backpack, there are several key features to consider. These features can make a significant difference in the overall quality and functionality of the backpack.
Backpack Materials and Durability
The materials used to make a travel backpack are crucial in determining its durability and longevity. Look for backpacks made from high-quality, water-resistant materials such as nylon, polyester or ripstop. These materials can withstand the rigours of travel and keep your belongings dry in case of unexpected rain or spills. Additionally, consider the weight and thickness of the materials, as lighter and thinner materials can make the backpack more comfortable to wear. A durable travel backpack ensures that it can handle the wear and tear of frequent use, making it a reliable companion for all your adventures.
Zippers, Buckles and Hardware Quality
The zippers, buckles and hardware on a travel backpack are essential components that can make or break the overall quality of the backpack. Look for backpacks with high-quality zippers that are smooth to operate and can withstand heavy use. Also, consider the type of buckles and hardware used, as they should be sturdy and able to support the weight of the backpack. Anti-theft zippers and buckles can also provide an added layer of security for your belongings. Investing in a backpack with robust hardware ensures that your items remain secure and the backpack itself remains functional over time.
Comfort and Fit
A travel backpack should be comfortable to wear, especially during long trips. Look for backpacks with padded shoulder straps, hip belts, and back panels that can provide adequate support and cushioning. Adjustable shoulder straps and hip belts can also help to customise the fit of the backpack to your body. Additionally, consider the weight distribution of the backpack, as a well-balanced backpack can reduce fatigue and discomfort during wear. Features like padded shoulder straps and a padded hip belt can make a significant difference in comfort, allowing you to carry your backpack for extended periods without strain.
Design and organisation: Top-loading Versus Clamshell Backpacks
Travel backpacks come in two main designs: top-loading and clamshell. Top-loading backpacks have a single compartment that can be accessed from the top, while clamshell backpacks have a split design that allows for easier packing and organisation. Clamshell backpacks are ideal for travellers who need to pack and unpack frequently, as they provide easy access to all compartments. Top-loading backpacks, on the other hand, are better suited for travellers who prefer a more streamlined design and don’t need to access their belongings frequently. Choosing between these designs depends on your travel style and how you prefer to organise your gear.
Travel backpack size and capacity
Choosing the right travel backpack varies with each scenario, however, you’d ideally want one that is the right size and capacity for your needs, has a variety of organisational pockets and compartments, comfortable shoulder straps and is weather-resistant. You can also consider whether you’d prefer a backpack or a versatile hybrid duffle backpack.
35L and less – smaller backpacks or day packs are great for short weekends away, domestic trips or day activities like a hike as they won’t be too heavy.
35L to 45L – medium-sized backpacks are a good in-between option for a week-long overseas trip (granted you’re not an overpacker). If you’re going somewhere warm, it’s perfect for packing thinner clothes but if you’re going somewhere cold, this size may not be great for packing thicker pieces of clothing.
45L and up – large backpacks are a must if you’re planning on going away for more than a week. They’re spacious and will be able to hold everything you could possibly need to be self-sufficient. If you’re going somewhere that’s cold, you’ll be able to pack your thicker layers comfortably in a backpack of this size.
By considering these key features, you can find a travel backpack that meets your needs and enhances your travel experience. Whether you prioritise durability, comfort, or organisation, the right backpack can make all the difference on your next adventure.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spent hours researching the best travel backpacks to include in articles.
We found out what factors make a great travel backpack by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW CAN I EFFICIENTLY PACK MY TRAVEL BACKPACK?
Keeping your travel as stress-free as possible is important, so when it comes to packing there are two things to consider: convenience and comfort.
Convenience: Pack your backpack with the items you won’t use during the day or necessarily need straight away at the bottom of your bag. Make sure important things like your passport, wallet, toiletries and other essentials are easily accessible and placed at the top. You might also consider using packing cubes which can help with creating even more space.
Comfort: Keep heavy items at the bottom and close to your back – this is so that they don’t affect your balance by pulling you sideways, backwards or forward, and so that they don’t crush anything that may be fragile or light. Some models might also have a padded hip belt for optimal comfort while using.
WHAT SIZE CARRY-ON IS ALLOWED IN AUSTRALIA?
While it varies among different airlines, most Australian Airlines follow the same rule of thumb when it comes to carry on travel backpacks.
You can take one bag (H56cm x W36cm x D23cm) with a maximum weight of seven kilograms, although some do offer up to 10 kilograms.
You also have the choice of taking two carry-on bags (H48cm x W34cm x D23xm), or one bag and one soft garment bag.
Keep in mind that when flying overseas, carry-on bag limits aren’t always the same across airlines so double-check your airline’s policy before packing.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BRANDS AND MODELS OF TRAVEL BACKPACKS?
Some of the best travel backpack brands out there at the moment include Osprey, Deuter, Patagonia, and REI. The Cotopaxi Allpa travel backpack, known for its durability is also popular right now.
The Peak Design travel backpack is a great option for both a hiking backpack, or if you’d like to use as carry on.
The Patagonia Black Hole MLC is also highly regarded, and has lots of space with a 45L capacity.You might also consider Caribee, which offers a range of versatile travel backpacks and bags, including our top pick, the Caribee Traveller Carry-On Backpack.
Caribee backpacks are designed with both functionality and comfort in mind, featuring ergonomic designs, ample storage space, and various compartments for storage and organisation.
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