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10 Best Travel Backpacks 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L, Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,375
Capacity
Material
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
582 reviews

Capacity
The Thule Aion is large and functional, fitting under the seat while still holding a ton of clothes, electronics, and personal gear.
Material
Highly recommend this expandable travel backpack with its canvas-like water-resistant exterior and well-thought-out handles.
Compartments and Organization
A handy waterproof compartment is perfect for holding a wet swimsuit or similar items.
Fit and Comfort
Comfortable shoulder straps with an adjustable cross strap enhance the carrying experience.
Security Features
The backpack opens separately from a top zip or full clam-shell style and is lockable, adding an extra layer of security.
Accessibility
The water bottle pocket is quite large but could be more accessible while wearing the pack.
Weather Resistance
Highly recommend this expandable travel backpack with its canvas-like water-resistant exterior and well-thought-out handles.

The Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L is designed with travelers in mind, boasting a capacity of 40 liters, which is suitable for weekend trips or daily commutes. One of its standout features is the use of environmentally friendly materials, including 100% recycled polyester and a durable water-resistant coating, offering peace of mind during light rain. Weighing in at 1215 grams, it strikes a good balance between durability and portability.

The backpack excels in organization, thanks to multiple compartments, including a secure zippered top pocket for small items and padded storage for a laptop and tablet, making it ideal for tech-savvy travelers. The removable TPU rolltop bag is a clever addition, allowing for separation of items, which is great for keeping dirty clothes or shoes aside.

Comfort is addressed with adjustable straps, and the option to add a supporting hipbelt with the Thule Aion Sling Bag (sold separately) enhances fit during longer trips. In terms of security, the zippered pockets provide a reliable option for keeping valuables safe during travel. Accessibility is generally user-friendly, but the main compartment's rolltop style may require some getting used to for quick access.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,375
Capacity
Material
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
582 reviews

Capacity
The Thule Aion is large and functional, fitting under the seat while still holding a ton of clothes, electronics, and personal gear.
Material
Highly recommend this expandable travel backpack with its canvas-like water-resistant exterior and well-thought-out handles.
Compartments and Organization
A handy waterproof compartment is perfect for holding a wet swimsuit or similar items.
Fit and Comfort
Comfortable shoulder straps with an adjustable cross strap enhance the carrying experience.
Security Features
The backpack opens separately from a top zip or full clam-shell style and is lockable, adding an extra layer of security.
Accessibility
The water bottle pocket is quite large but could be more accessible while wearing the pack.
Weather Resistance
Highly recommend this expandable travel backpack with its canvas-like water-resistant exterior and well-thought-out handles.
#2

Osprey Farpoint Men's Wheeled Travel Pack 65L, Muted Space Blue

Rating
8.2
Capacity
Weight
Material

Most important from
216 reviews

Capacity
The space available is very adequate for a 10-day trip, with internal straps that help stabilize the load.
Weight
It's quite light empty and rolls easily with its larger wheels when fully packed.
Material
The outer material held up without even a mark in baggage check, even with luggage transfers.
Compartments and Organization
The red interior makes it easy to see stuff, and the extra pockets are great for organization.
Accessibility
It rolls so smoothly, and alternating between backpack and roller is easy.

The Osprey Farpoint Men's Wheeled Travel Pack is designed for travelers who need a versatile and spacious backpack. With a 65-liter capacity, it offers ample room for longer trips or for those who like to pack a bit more. Its adjustable torso fit ensures comfort, which is particularly useful during long journeys. Weighing in at 6.17 pounds, it's relatively lightweight for a pack of its size, making it easier to carry or roll.

The organization features are impressive, with compartments that include front panel zippered pockets and inner organizer pockets, allowing you to keep your essentials neatly arranged. Additionally, the external gear attachment loops provide flexibility for carrying extra items like a sleeping bag or jacket.

One of the standout aspects of this backpack is its comfort and fit, thanks to the adjustable torso strap, which can help you find the best fit for your body. The padded handles also make it convenient to lift or pull when you need to switch from carrying to wheeling.

Rating
8.2
Capacity
Weight
Material

Most important from
216 reviews

Capacity
The space available is very adequate for a 10-day trip, with internal straps that help stabilize the load.
Weight
It's quite light empty and rolls easily with its larger wheels when fully packed.
Material
The outer material held up without even a mark in baggage check, even with luggage transfers.
Compartments and Organization
The red interior makes it easy to see stuff, and the extra pockets are great for organization.
Accessibility
It rolls so smoothly, and alternating between backpack and roller is easy.
#3

Thule Crossover 32L Backpack New

Rating
7.9
Compartments and Organization
Weight
Material

Most important from
1645 reviews

Compartments and Organization
The backpack offers perfect organization and protection for all travel essentials.
Weight
Its lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry throughout the day.
Material
Durable materials and weather resistance provide reliable protection on the go.
Accessibility
Ideal for keeping electronics safe with dedicated laptop and device sleeves.

The Thule Crossover 32L Backpack is a solid choice for travelers who need a well-organized and protective bag. With a 32-liter capacity, it offers enough space for daily travel essentials without being too bulky. Weighing just under 3 pounds, it is lightweight enough to carry comfortably for long periods. Its water-resistant fabric and aluminum hardware add durability and some protection against the weather, which is important when you're on the move.

One standout feature is the rear organization compartment that includes an elevated laptop sleeve big enough for a 17" MacBook Pro, plus a dedicated iPad sleeve and soft-lined pockets for smaller devices like phones, helping keep your electronics safe and organized. The SafeZone compartment with crush-proof protection is great for fragile items like sunglasses. The backpack’s design emphasizes security and easy access to your gear, ideal for airport or city travel.

The pack’s shape and dimensions might limit how much bulky clothing or larger items you can fit compared to bigger travel backpacks. Also, it does not specify any extra padding or support features for long-haul comfort, so if you carry heavy loads regularly, it might feel less comfortable over time. This bag suits travelers who prioritize organization, protection for gadgets, and moderate capacity, making it a dependable companion for everyday travel or short trips.

Rating
7.9
Compartments and Organization
Weight
Material

Most important from
1645 reviews

Compartments and Organization
The backpack offers perfect organization and protection for all travel essentials.
Weight
Its lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry throughout the day.
Material
Durable materials and weather resistance provide reliable protection on the go.
Accessibility
Ideal for keeping electronics safe with dedicated laptop and device sleeves.

Buying Guide for the Best Travel Backpacks

Choosing the right travel backpack is crucial for ensuring comfort, convenience, and security during your travels. The perfect backpack will depend on your travel style, the duration of your trips, and your personal preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a travel backpack, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
CapacityCapacity refers to the volume of the backpack, usually measured in liters. This spec is important because it determines how much you can carry. For short trips or minimalist travelers, a 20-30 liter backpack might suffice. For longer trips or those who need to carry more gear, a 40-60 liter backpack is more appropriate. Consider your packing habits and the length of your trips to choose the right capacity for you.
WeightThe weight of the backpack itself is crucial, especially if you plan to carry it for long periods. A lighter backpack can reduce strain on your back and shoulders. Backpacks can range from ultra-light (under 1 kg) to heavier models (over 2 kg). If you prioritize comfort and mobility, opt for a lighter backpack, but ensure it still offers the durability and features you need.
MaterialThe material of the backpack affects its durability, water resistance, and weight. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and canvas. Nylon and polyester are lightweight and often treated for water resistance, making them suitable for most travelers. Canvas is heavier but very durable. Choose a material based on the conditions you'll be traveling in and your preference for weight versus durability.
Compartments and OrganizationThe number and type of compartments in a backpack can greatly affect how you organize your belongings. Some backpacks have multiple pockets, dividers, and even dedicated compartments for laptops or shoes. If you like to keep your items organized and easily accessible, look for a backpack with several compartments. If you prefer a simpler design, a backpack with fewer compartments might be better.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are essential for a travel backpack, especially if you'll be carrying it for extended periods. Look for adjustable shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a hip belt to distribute weight evenly. Some backpacks also offer adjustable torso lengths. Try on different backpacks to see which one feels most comfortable and provides the best support for your body type.
Security FeaturesSecurity features can help protect your belongings from theft. Look for backpacks with lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and cut-resistant materials. These features are particularly important if you'll be traveling in areas where pickpocketing is common. Choose the level of security based on your travel destinations and how much peace of mind you want.
AccessibilityAccessibility refers to how easily you can reach your items in the backpack. Some backpacks have a top-loading design, while others offer front-loading or panel-loading for easier access. If you need to frequently access your belongings, a front-loading backpack might be more convenient. Consider how you pack and how often you need to access your items to choose the best design for you.
Weather ResistanceWeather resistance is important if you'll be traveling in areas with unpredictable weather. Some backpacks come with built-in rain covers or are made from water-resistant materials. If you expect to encounter rain or snow, look for a backpack with good weather resistance to protect your belongings. If you'll be traveling in mostly dry conditions, this might be less of a priority.

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