10 Best Travel Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The MATEIN 45L Travel Backpack is a versatile and expandable travel companion suited for both men and women. With dimensions of 20x8.6x13.4 inches and a weight of just 2.16 pounds, it offers a large capacity while maintaining lightweight portability. Its expandable feature allows for additional packing space, making it suitable for weekend trips or occasional vacations. The backpack is designed to meet airline carry-on requirements, fitting easily in overhead compartments or under seats.

The convertible design, with hideaway padded shoulder straps, allows it to transform from a backpack to a briefcase, providing flexibility in carrying styles. The adjustable shoulder straps, air-mesh ventilated back panel, and sternum strap contribute to comfort during travel. Multiple compartments, including a front pocket for small items and internal compression straps, help in organizing belongings efficiently.

The use of water-resistant lightweight polyester ensures durability and weather resistance, while lockable zipper heads add a layer of security. The bag's accessibility is enhanced by the extra padded grab handles on the top and side. This travel backpack is highly practical for travelers seeking a large, lightweight, and versatile bag with excellent organizational features and solid weather resistance capabilities.

The Osprey Daylite Expandable 26+6 is a lightweight, durable travel backpack suitable for travelers seeking a versatile and comfortable daypack. Its 26-liter capacity can expand by an extra 6 liters, providing additional space without the bulk. Weighing just under 2 pounds, it is easy to carry for extended periods. The AirScape back panel enhances ventilation and ergonomic support, helping keep your back cool and comfortable during long days on the go.

Designed to fit as an international personal item, the backpack is convenient for air travel as it easily fits under an airplane seat. It features thoughtful organization including a tech sleeve, front zip pocket for quick access, two stretch water bottle holders, and a luggage pass-through to slide over a suitcase handle. These features make packing and accessing essentials straightforward.

The materials used are durable and provide some weather resistance. Security features consist of basic zippers and organized compartments. The single main compartment with expandable storage offers flexibility, which is ideal for everyday use, hiking, and travel. This pack balances capacity, comfort, and practical features well, making it a solid choice for those who value lightweight design and airline-friendly size with a bit of extra space and comfort.

The WATERFLY Small Lightweight Packable Backpack is designed for travelers needing a compact, easy-to-carry daypack. Its standout feature is the foldable design, allowing the bag to shrink to about half its size for convenient storage inside a larger suitcase or backpack. Weighing only around 290 grams (10.2 ounces), this backpack is very light, reducing shoulder strain during long days out. Made from recycled nylon with polyester linings, it offers decent durability and a smooth feel on the shoulders.

With a 16-20 liter capacity (some specs list 16L, others 20L), it’s suitable for carrying daily essentials such as a water bottle, snacks, a light jacket, and small personal items. The organization includes one main compartment, two front pockets, and a removable zipper pocket, which helps keep things tidy but may not offer the padding or specialized slots found in larger travel backpacks.

This backpack suits travelers who want a simple, lightweight, and packable option for day trips, hiking, or as an extra bag during travel. It is a practical choice for light, everyday use but is less ideal for those needing heavy padding, advanced security, or robust weather protection.