The Best Travel Backpacks
If you've decided to pack up your troubles and go on an adventure, you'll need a reliable backpack to accompany you along the way. Whether you're going on an overnight getaway, jet-setting for work, or trekking into uncharted territories, keeping your valuables safe and organized will save you time and give you peace of mind. We've rounded up a wide range of options that cater to digital nomads and wilderness wanderers alike, so take a look below to find a suitable option for your next expedition.
What to Look For
For trips that go beyond your daily commute, you’ll probably need a little more than what the average daypack has to offer. Capacity is key here, and we’ve selected a range of options that should have you covered for at least a few nights out of the house. And whether you’re traveling solo or in a group, security is a top concern, so we’ve also highlighted some options that have locks and other features to protect you from petty theft. Lastly, if you’re taking on the great outdoors, you’ll want to know that your backpack is capable of withstanding the elements. Our top pick was Matein’s travel laptop backpack, which offers stalwart security for most portable electronics. With water bottle storage on the outside and a water-resistant coating, this backpack will have you covered against light spills and rainfall, too. But if you’re looking for ultimate protection from the most torrential downpours, check out the hard shell backpack from Kingslong. Read on to discover the rest of our favorite travel backpacks.
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
Gadgets galore
Whether we’re traveling for work or play, many of us bring a laptop and other devices along for the ride. This compact and secure rucksack from Matein comes equipped with a secure laptop compartment that holds your device strapped in place between layers of protective padding. If you need your devices to be fully charged while you’re on the move, the handy USB port will also let you connect to portable batteries that are stored safely inside, away from prying hands.
Pros:
- An additional sleeve above the laptop compartment offers a snug home for tablets or smaller notebooks, so you can keep all your tech organized in one place.
- The elasticized mesh pockets on each side offer external storage for water bottles and the like, making it less likely that you’ll spill anything inside the bag.
- This durable polyester fabric is water-resistant and quick to clean.
Cons:
- This 15.6-inch laptop compartment will fit most standard laptops and notebooks, but it might be too small for the largest models.
Tzowla Travel Laptop Backpack
Under lock and key
Whether you’re on your daily commute or traveling across borders, it’s reassuring to be protected against would-be thieves when you’re carrying precious goods on your back. This security travel backpack from Tzowla makes room for laptops up to 15.6″ in a secure, combination-locked compartment. Plus, thanks to a USB and headphone port, you can listen to music or podcasts even while your devices are stowed away.
Pros:
- The combination lock means you don’t have to worry about misplacing small keys.
- We love that even the exterior side pockets are equipped with an extra theft deterrent in the form of sturdy magnetic buckles.
Cons:
- The USB port can increase charging times for some devices by up to three times, so it’s best suited for occasional top-ups while you’re on the go.
Venture Pal 40L Hiking Backpack
Outdoor provisions
When adventure comes calling, you don’t want your gear to slow you down. This lightweight hiking backpack offers an organized storage solution for mobile travelers setting foot into the great outdoors. Despite its spacious 40L interior, it weighs a meager 0.7 pounds, so you can stay light on your feet wherever the trail leads. The highly breathable, easily adjustable straps will keep you feeling free and comfortable during longer ventures — especially the additional chest strap, which helps distribute weight when you’re packing a heavy load.
Pros:
- A built-in whistle on the chest pack could offer you a lifeline in a time of need.
- An integrated wet pocket inside the main compartment allows you to store used swimwear or other damp items while keeping the rest of the contents bone dry.
- A kaleidoscopic range of colors and patterns means you’re sure to stay visible to your companions in the wilderness.
Cons:
- The canvas design folds away easily but offers little structure or support for fragile items.
Osprey Porter 46
Fit to fly
International travel often calls for a trip by air. With all the rules and regulations of modern airline travel, it can sometimes leave us confused when choosing which bag to bring along for the ride. The Osprey Porter is a comprehensive carry-on baggage solution with standardized dimensions that fall well within most airlines’ restrictions. With a U-zip enclosure securing a whopping 46 liters of storage space, this option is enough to keep light travelers equipped for a few weeks of adventure.
Pros:
- The rear laptop panel can be easily opened to access your devices at airport security checks.
- The padded handles on the top and side offer a comfortable handheld carrying alternative.
Cons:
- Osprey is indeed well-known for its premium backpacks, but this expertise comes at a greater cost than many competitors.
Kingslong Hard Shell Backpack
Portable fortress
Soft backpacks offer a lightweight solution for travel on foot, but a fabric outer will only go so far to protect its contents against impacts. This hardshell backpack offers supreme resistance to knocks and drops, with high-quality polyester and 600D film outer that will deflect all but the toughest blows. A dedicated laptop compartment can accommodate devices up to 17 inches, and you can connect on the go thanks to the USB port on the side. For the toughest applications, this is the backpack to depend on.
Pros:
- The outer layer is resistant to light rainfall, but a professional rain cover concealed in the lower pocket will keep the contents dry in a downpour.
- Enhanced sewing on these comfortable straps means you can securely bear loads of up to 22 pounds.
- Net pockets on each side offer a home for water bottles or travel umbrellas.
Cons:
- With the added protection of a hard shell outer, this backpack weighs more than most canvas options when empty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant materials?
If you’re looking for a backpack that will keep electronics safe whatever the weather, it’s important to understand the distinction between these terms. Water-resistant fabrics like 600D nylon will repel light showers and spills, but they won’t hold up for long when exposed to a torrential downpour. Waterproof materials, on the other hand, provide greater protection.
Can I machine-wash my backpack?
Always read the label before machine washing new garments and accessories, as some fabrics won’t enjoy the heat and prolonged submersion of a standard wash cycle. To preserve the integrity of zippers, buckles, and clips, we suggest cleaning your dirty backpack by hand and then air-drying it.
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