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10 Best Backpacks for Travel in 2022 (Osprey, Tortuga, and More)

10 Best Backpacks for Travel in 2022 (Osprey, Tortuga, and More)

Q: Top 5 Backpacks for Travel

Q: How to Choose a Backpack for Travel - Buying Guide

・Choose a Style That Suits Your Travel Needs ・Look for Convenient Travel Features, Like Laptop Sleeves and Extra Pockets >> Click here for details >> View Full Ranking

Whether you are a seasoned globetrotter, a backpacker, or a casual weekend traveler, you could benefit from a travel backpack. You may also want a travel backpack if you enjoy hiking or do frequent air traveling for work. While some travelers prefer a suitcase on wheels, a backpack will be a better choice in many situations, such as when walking on uneven pavement, sand, or snow.

We went ahead and researched the 10 best backpacks for travel out there, whether it's for business, the outdoors, and more. Our top pick is Opsprey's 46 Travel Backpack for its carry-on-friendly size, ample storage, and multiple access modes. Read on for more of our choices, and scroll to the bottom for an in-depth buying guide!

Last updated 09/26/2023

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Backpack for Travel - Buying Guide
1
Choose a Style That Suits Your Travel Needs
2
Look for Convenient Travel Features, Like Laptop Sleeves and Extra Pockets
10 Best Backpacks for Travel
No. 1
Osprey | Osprey Farpoint 40
No. 2
Osprey | Osprey Fairview 40
No. 3
Tortuga | Tortuga Setout
No. 4
Osprey | Osprey Meridian
No. 5
PacSafe | Pacsafe Venturesafe X40
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How to Choose a Backpack for Travel - Buying Guide

When it comes to travel backpacks, there's no "one size fits all." That's why you should look for a backpack that fits your body and frame as well as suits your travel style and packing needs. Use these tips to help find your perfect backpack for traveling.

Choose a Style That Suits Your Travel Needs

Keep the kind of travel you'll be doing in mind and that will help you narrow your search. Also, keep in mind that men and women have different physiques, and while there are unisex backpacks out there, women greatly benefit from using backpacks designed for the female body.

Water-Resistance and Durability for Outdoor Use

Whether you're a full-time traveler or just travel occasionally, there's always a chance you'll get caught in a drizzle. Unless you are planning a hike in the jungle, you can usually get away with semi-water-resistant material.

However, you should consider your travel destination. If you're going to places that receive a lot of precipitation, such as Southeast Asia during the rainy season, it might be wise to look for a completely waterproof option. This is especially important if you have a lot of digital gadgets to protect.

While polypropylene is the most waterproof material, it's not UV-resistant and thus not very durable in the great outdoors. For full protection against downpours, look for a backpack that comes with a rain cover. You can also buy these separately. Other materials that are water-resistant include canvas coated with wax and sailcloth.

Furthermore, you should consider when, where, and how often you'll use the backpack. If you're a frequent hiker or backpacker, you'll want a strong and durable backpack. Nylon, especially ripstop nylon, is a good material to look for. It's durable and prevents further tearing if damaged. Avoid polyester, as it's heavier than nylon and not as tenacious.

Consider Extra Padding and Support for Long Trips

If you're planning a long trip, such as a strenuous hike or backpacking in Europe or Asia, extra support is vital. A suspension system is designed to distribute weight evenly across your back. This helps prevent pinching, soreness, and back pain. It also often comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a hip belt, load positioning straps, and sternum straps that wrap around your chest.

Additionally, look for a bag with proper padding on the shoulder straps as well as the back panel. This will help keep both your back and your shoulders protected as you are carrying around the weight. Don’t forget a properly padded waist-strap either!

Whether you are traveling in a hot climate or not, contoured padding will be a lifesaver. The contouring allows air to flow between your back and your bag, and as a result, you won’t turn into a sweaty mess on a hot day or if you have to carry your bag for an extended period of time.

The contoured padding will also help with weight distribution and ensure that you maintain a good posture while wearing your backpack.

Think About Size and Security for Planes and Urban Travel

For city trotting or simple weekend trips, a bulky backpack might be cumbersome. For example, it can be hard to bring the backpack on packed trains or into shops. A small and lightweight backpack may be the better choice in this case, especially if you frequently travel by airplane.

Luckily, some travel backpacks can be taken on a plane as your carry-on, meaning you don't have to check them in. Generally, the size requirement for carry-on luggage is a maximum of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and it shouldn't weigh more than 22 pounds. This varies by airline, though, so make sure to check with yours before you fly.

Another concern is anti-theft. Some destinations are renowned for their pickpockets. A secure backpack will have secret pockets or even a locking system so that it's harder to break into. You can also buy a separate lock to use on your double-zippers, but make sure it's TSA-recognised if you're a frequent flyer.

Look for Convenient Travel Features, Like Laptop Sleeves and Extra Pockets

The features can matter just as much as the basics depending on your journey. These features will help you stay safe, secure, and organized.

Make Sure The Backpack Suits Your Devices

Consider what goes in your backpack. If you want to bring a big laptop, for example, a big laptop pocket will be helpful. Regardless of your screen size, a padded pocket provides extra protection for your digital gadgets.

For smaller items, check whether a backpack has a convenient way to store them. If you're on the go, they should be easily accessible. Side or front pockets are your friends. Many travel backpacks are equipped with easy-access pockets, wherein you can store your passport, keys, and phone, and access them without having to take off the bag.

Pick a Design That Gives You Easy Access

Decide whether you prefer a top-loading or side-loading backpack. Many backpacks open at the top, but sometimes this means you will have to dig around or even unpack your bag completely in order to reach items that are at the bottom. It can also be difficult to see the entire contents of your bag.

A side- or front-opening backpack can solve these problems. This style opens just like a suitcase and gives you a full view of the bag as well as easy access to your belongings. However, this type of backpack might be difficult to open when out and about, like on the street, and offers less structure than a top-loading option.

By choosing a bag with multiple compartments, you will be able to easily separate and organize your belongings. This is a good way to keep your shoes or dirty laundry away from your clean clothes. It's also a great way to keep your laptop or tablet safe and easy to access. You might also want a water bottle pocket that's easy to reach when carrying the backpack.

Some backpacks will have side handles or multiple handles that allow you to handle the backpack more easily. This can be a huge time saver if you're in a rush or find yourself constantly having to take off and put on your bag.

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