One of the most important things a backpacker can find is a great travel backpack. It holds all your gear, it’s with you almost all the time, and in some bizarre, anthropomorphic way, it’s your best friend. I still remember the feeling of coming back from my first solo backpacking trip, and walking around without a backpack. It felt wrong. Like something was missing.
Over the years, I’ve gone through packs like nobody’s business. I’ve never used the same pack for more than two trips, and no matter how many hours I spend either online or in the store, it seems like finding the right pack is always going to be a horrific ordeal.
Discomfort, poorly designed features, dangly straps, sizing issues, and all manner of nonsense have thwarted my path at every turn. It’s tough finding something that fits you properly, and I think, given the high user ratings of certain packs I hate, maybe I just have a bizarrely crooked spine and it’s not their fault.
But I refuse to let them get away with rant-free ease.
“Travel” packs barely exist
Part of the problem is that, up until very recently, the only options were top-loading hiking backpacks, or wheeled suitcases. Other options like duffel bags or school backpacks exist as well, but these are rarely suitable for round-the-world travel.
But since these were the only options, accepting their flaws was all I could do. And besides, high-quality hiking backpacks will stand up to most abuse, and they’ll be super comfortable if they fit you properly. But they’re not ideally suited for travel. Hiking packs work, but we’ve only been using them because nothing else was better.
The problem(s) with hiking backpacks:
Now don’t get me wrong; hiking backpacks are great, and I’ve used them on plenty of trips. Some designs have none of these flaws; it’s just that they usually do:
- Packing inconvenience: Hiking packs are usually top-loading, cavernous cylinders that swallow your gear and you have to dig everything out to find whatever’s at the bottom. You can mitigate this problem with packing cubes, but suitcase-style openings are so easy to manufacture that it’s insulting how rarely they’re implemented.
- Extraneous strap dangle: Hiking packs have all sorts of compression straps and attachment points. These are useful for walking around, but they’ll get scratched up when you throw them in the luggage compartment for a bus ride. And I’m including shoulder and hip straps here, too. If you ever have to check your bags for a flight, they’ll come out a little more damaged every time.
- No locking mechanism: Top loaders usually use a drawstring opening, which offers no security whatsoever against unscrupulous hostel bunkmates. This problem can be mostly solved with a laptop sleeve that can lock itself to a bed, but lockable zippers would be easier (though I’ve softened this requirement, as zippers can be easily bypassed, even when locked).
And in many cases, plenty of hiking packs have dumb design errors anyway, even if you’re just hiking.
The problem(s) with so-called “travel backpacks:”
Several companies design what they call “travel backpacks,” which have better features, solving some of the problems listed above, but they generally screw things up in the meantime as well:
- Size: They’ll make them so gigantic that you have to check them on a plane. Some of these “travel backpacks” go up to 80 liters. I’ve done RTW travel with 20. The carry-on max of 45 liters is plenty! Who the hell needs 80?!?!
- De-hydration pockets: They’ll skip the damn water bottle side pockets and then where the hell do they go?!?!?
- Filthy dirty lie “panel” loading: They’ll forget to make the suitcase-style opening go all the way around, thus defeating the purpose of the panel in the first place.
Sigh.
Which is why I’m so gleefully pleased that certain companies have been designing travel backpacks. Correctly, I might add.
I don’t know why the other people didn’t bother doing it before.
What the best travel backpacks get right
I’ve compiled a list of some of the best travel backpacks for carry-on use I can find. These packs are made for travelers, not hikers. They’ve got panel-loading convenience, not top-loading caverns; they’ve got lockable zippers, not drawstring uselessness; they’ve got carry-on dimensions, and minimal, hide-away straps, not monstrous bulges and streamers hanging from every angle. They can be carry-ons, or they can be checked luggage, without getting ruined.
Oh, and they’re not ugly. To me, that counts. Who the hell ever thought fluorescent orange was sexy? The 80s? Yeah, stay there.
I’ve organized this list by type. Let’s begin:
Option 1: Full size and full-featured
These packs have everything you could want; maximized dimensions, panel access, a laptop compartment, and lots of internal and external organizational pockets. There’s nothing missing.
1) Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack
Tortuga was started by a random team of people who found themselves complaining about how they couldn’t find a travel pack that wasn’t awful. They’ve been outfitting nomads ever since.
Expected features on this pack include the full-length panel-loading design, to allow plenty of easy access to everything inside, and the dedicated laptop compartment opens fully flat, so you don’t need to remove your laptop at the security conveyor belt. The inside has even more pockets than the outside, and several compartments (the important ones) feature locking zippers. The “organizer panel” compartment is my favorite feature, with slots for pens, cards, and other small items, and the sheer number of pockets, both inside and out, will offer more organization than anything else you’re going to find.
Tortuga is currently on the third version of this pack, and the new design has a height-adjustable suspension system, meaning it will fit people of all sizes. It also has a seriously padded hip belt, which is rare for these packs, along with a seriously cushioned back panel (with raised ventilation) and shoulder straps. It’s the most heavy-duty suspension system of any travel pack out there, and although it’s significantly heavier as a result, it’s going to excel at carrying heavier loads. They’ve eliminated the ability to stow the shoulder straps and the suitcase handle, however, emphasizing its backpack features exclusively. The side grab handle is also gone, replaced with an extra mesh pocket.
It’s available in 35 and 45 liter capacities, to match the carry-on size requirements of European budget carriers, or North American airlines, respectively. I would say that because the pack features such a heavy-duty suspension system, it actually makes more sense in the 45 liter version. With a full load at that size, you’re definitely going to appreciate the extra cushioning, but at 35 liters, it might feel like overkill, especially since this is one of the heaviest packs out there.
Though Tortuga has released lighter packs, I much prefer the shoulder straps on this model, as they’re much more comfortable on me than either of the new ones they’ve released. If you’re looking for a 45 liter pack, this is as feature-rich as it gets, and definitely one of my top choices at that size.
You can get it from Tortuga. Their blog is also great, with all sorts of packing and travel tips.
Update: I received a test sample of the 35 liter version of this pack, and put it to the test! Check it a detailed review here.
2) Rick Steves Convertible Carry-on
Long before anyone else got started in the carry-on travel backpack game, Rick Steves was galavanting around Europe with his own personal travel gear, designed exactly the way he liked it.
He gave it the features that later became standard on other packs, such as a fully opening panel that allows easy access to everything inside, along with hide-away backpack and waist straps, and suitcase-style grab handles. Exterior pockets are also quite generous, including a dedicated laptop compartment that became a later addition in an updated version.
But it has a few extra touches, such as a separate interior compartment for shoes or dirty clothes, and includes two mesh bags and a removable documents pouch, which you can remove and take with you instead of leaving it in a room. Lastly, the pack is sized to accommodate North American carry-on dimensions, but can expand with a compression zipper in case you stock up on too many souvenirs.
It’s easily the most affordable option on this list, although they do recommend using packing cubes inside to create more structure along the back panel. If you don’t, it can sag quite a bit, putting the weight on your shoulders instead of your hips. The compression straps on the side help with this quite a bit, so just make sure to pack it right, or it’ll feel heavier than it really is.
You can pick it up here.
3) Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45
Pacsafe is known for its anti-theft approach in everything they do, and this pack is no exception. Not only does it have lockable zippers, but it has zippers that are resistant to the “pen trick,” which is a method thieves can use to break into a pack, even if it’s locked. It’s a huge nuisance that travelers need to know about, but it’s solved here, by placing a redundant set of teeth on the opposite side of each zipper, which prevents a pen from breaking through the chain. It also has slash-proof materials, to prevent hit-and-run theft.
Beyond that, it has a fully-opening suitcase-style main compartment, a laptop sleeve and organizational area in the front, and tuck-away straps. The carry-on dimensions, multiple grab handles, and compression straps make it portable, and versatile.
Pacsafe currently makes this version in a few different sizes, and they have other Venturesafe models available as well (such as the Vibe and X40), but I think this one has the best combination of features, especially in terms of organization. The others are lacking some extra compartments, for example, making this one the most recommendable of their selection. I wouldn’t say it has that much organization, but the organizer panel goes a long way toward keeping everything neat and tidy.
Get it here.
4) GoRuck G2
GoRuck has gained something of a reputation for designing some of the longest-lasting gear you can find, built for crazy endurance events and military use. They have packs of several different sizes (including multiple capacities, even if the packs have the same name), but the 40 liter G2 is the one I’m highlighting here.
The pack features a fully panel-loading design, a separate laptop compartment, and another exterior panel-loading compartment for extra organization. It also has those webbing loops all over the place for adding extra accessories or lashing gear to the outside, including a separately available padded hip belt, which I would call a necessity if you’re going for the 40 liter version. The sternum strap is also a separate accessory, so be sure to pick that up if you need it. You can tell it was originally designed for super tough, muscular guys, but it’s nice how they’ve accommodated scrawny weaklings with those extra touches.
As for the downside, the heavy-duty materials and construction make this pack heavy, and pricy…in fact it’s the heaviest and most expensive option listed here, but if you’re big enough to handle the heavier load and you want something that’ll pretty much last forever, the G2 is the one that’ll handle it.
The newly-developed G3, at 45 liters and with an integrated hip belt, nearly made the list here, but the slightly smaller G2 has that extra outside compartment for greater organization, so it just edges out the victory, at least in my opinion. Since the design doesn’t have much in the way of exterior organization, I think that’s an important feature. I do like the G3’s integrated hip belt, however, which is a more natural design element than the G2’s after-the-fact accessory hip belt add-on.
Pick it up here.
Option 2: Svelte and Slim
At 35 liters each, these are for lighter travelers who don’t need to max out on the size, but still want all the convenience of easy packing and laptop compatibility. They’ve got all the important features you’d want, in a slimmed-down size.
5) Minaal Carry-on Backpack
This one is yet another creation in the long, adorable line of things that were invented because people got sick and tired of endlessly having to deal with things that sucked.
This Kickstarter-backed project came about when two long-time travelers decided to make the pack they would have wanted. They set out to create the perfect travel pack for digital nomads, and its design (and Kickstarter success) just goes to show how rarely some of the major players stop to think about the needs of backpackers.
The Minaal has all of the major features you’d expect, including the fully-opening main panel, a separate laptop compartment, hide-away straps, locking zippers, multiple grab handles, and carry-on dimensions, even for the stricter European airlines. It has a few exterior pockets and internal dividers as well, along with a removable rain cover, and a removable, padded hip belt. It’s lighter and simpler than some of the larger packs, and it’s part of the reason I think this relatively minimal level of strap cushioning is kind of all you need at this size. The water bottle pocket is pretty tight, but there’s an elastic band in there that’ll hold taller bottles in place if necessary.
The pack is light, but also unstructured; packing cubes are definitely helpful here, especially since the main compartment tends to flop around quite a bit when you’re trying to pack it. The back panel isn’t too rigid either, so to keep it from sagging, using packing cubes and tightening the compression straps would be a good idea.
Get one here.
Update: This bag is now in version 2.0, and is even better than the original! They’ve sent me a test sample, and I’ve written about it in-depth here.
6) Cotopaxi Allpa 35
For those who love travel, but only in Punky Brewster colors. But don’t worry, it also comes in black.
This is a relatively new offering, but it does quite a few clever things that look great; it opens up like a suitcase, but splits the gear in half, rather than simply opening with a flap. It has a separate laptop and tablet sleeve, some exterior pocket access (including a way to access the main compartment without pulling open the main zipper), and a neat theft-prevention trick of leaving the zipper pulls on the opposite side of a webbing loop, where they’re hard to yank without fiddling with them a little.
The pack also has a number of optional accessories, such as an external mesh water bottle pocket, to add some customization. The extremely curvy shoulder straps (which tuck away when not in use) are also angled properly for smaller people with more angled shoulders, which I think is actually most people. It even throws in a rain cover, and the price is extremely competitive. I like the way it splits up the main compartment, giving you even more organization instead of using just one big space for everything, and also how it allows you to access those areas without opening up the main zipper. Plus it has those mesh doorways to keep everything in place, so you won’t make a mess even if you need to open up the main compartment. I suppose it could use a bit more mini-organization for pens and cards, but that’s about the only issue I can see.
The lower-right picture shows the pack with optional accessories, like the daypack and laundry bag, available separately.
Get it here.
7) Gregory Border 35
So Gregory is primarily a hiking pack company, and not as widely known as some of the bigger names in the industry, but whose packs I think are designed better than many of its competitors.
Their Border series consists of urban/travel backpacks, and this 35 liter version has not only a full-length panel-loading main compartment, but also a full-length panel loading laptop compartment; this means you just unzip and unfold this compartment, and lay it down on the airport security scanner, rather than removing the laptop at all. It’s quick and easy, and makes airport life just a little more convenient. The several exterior compartments allow for quick access, although there’s not a huge amount of organization here.
It’s missing a couple useful features, however. There’s no hip belt, no side water bottle pocket, and you can’t stow the straps away to use it as a suitcase (although it does have side carry handles). At 35 liters, you might not have to deal with checking the bag, but keep it in mind. Think of it as a budget version of the Minaal. The overall layout is similar, but it’s missing a few of the extra details. Without a hip belt, this’ll work better for larger people, or those who don’t plan on walking around too much with it, such as those who prefer taxis instead of hauling gear across town.
Option 3: Convertible shoulder bags
These options transform from backpack to shoulder bag, so you can carry it whichever way you want.
8) Tom Bihn Aeronaut
Tom Bihn is known for exceptional attention to detail, tiny little organizational perks, and super tough materials. They tend to win over fans for life, and that’s how long their bags seem to last, too. Many of them end up collecting the whole set.
They also provide far more compartmentalization than most other options; instead of one big compartment and a few extra pockets on the outside that are really just flat slots, they tend to have multiple three-dimensional areas, for splitting up large items, and not just little ones.
Pictured is the Aeronaut, a convertible duffel bag with disappearing backpack straps that zip away when you don’t want to use them, along with an optional waist strap, and an optional shoulder strap for shoulder bag mode. The main compartment opens up with a U-shaped panel, allowing for far more convenient loading and unloading than a typical straight-zipper duffel would allow, and the spacious side compartments on either end allow for plenty of organizational access, even for large items, without having to open the main section. The 45 liter version is a full-size pack, but it comes in a 30 liter version as well, for those strict European carriers.
Though it has plenty of compartments, it doesn’t have anywhere specifically intended for a laptop or a water bottle, though you could easily find homes for these somewhere in the setup. Also, keep in mind that the optional hip belt is just a strap, so it’s better for shorter walks. I tend to think of this design primarily as a duffel bag, with the option of backpack straps if necessary, but with the minimal hip belt and non-meshy back panel (which is just the regular exterior fabric of the rest of the bag), I’d try to avoid all-day use while in backpack mode with this one.
Get it here.
Update: I got a chance to test the smaller version of this bag (30 liters), but the features are identical, so if you want to see a ridiculously detailed review, take a look here.
9) Patagonia MLC
The MLC stands for “Maximum Legal Carry-on,” and thus it’ll give you plenty of room. It opens up all the way like a suitcase, but splits the cargo in two, storing some of it in the “door.” This keeps things more organized than a standard compartment, especially for dividing clean laundry from used clothing. Exterior compartments round out the organization as well.
It has carrying handles, a shoulder strap, and backpack straps, a laptop compartment, and Patagonia’s ironclad guarantee. It’s a solidly built carry-on that’ll last you for years. I will say that because it’s primarily designed as a shoulder bag, without a mesh back panel and no hip belt, that it’s better to think of this as a shoulder bag than a backpack. You might be fine carrying it through an airport for a little while, but you probably wouldn’t want to go on any long walks or hikes with it. It does have a sternum strap, so that helps, but I wouldn’t think of it as a dedicated backpack.
This model is known as the “Headway,” although they have another version known as the “Black Hole” MLC, with a super weather-resistant fabric.
Pick it up here.
Option 4: From the outdoor world
These last few options are from outdoorsy companies, whose travel-specific options are also pretty solid.
10) REI Ruckpack 40
REI has had a place on this list for quite some time, although they’ve changed things up with new models every so often; the current incarnation of their travel pack is the Ruckpack 40, available in both men’s and women’s versions.
The Ruckpack is geared a bit more toward the outdoorsy crowd than digital nomads, with super-tough straps and a giant hip belt, but no laptop compartment. There’s a hydration bladder sleeve that could double as a laptop sleeve, but you’ll need to bring your own cushioned sleeve if you want protection. That’ll work, but it’s definitely more outdoorsy than tech-oriented, especially since it throws in a rain cover.
Still, it’s (nearly) a full-size pack, with a serious suspension system, which is easily its best feature, especially compared to some of the other minimal packs that are more for airline transportation than long hikes. It also has easy access from both the top and the fully-opening front panel (integrated together with a single zipper), and plenty of exterior organization, including small pockets for lots of small items. Those outer pockets do have a compression strap over them, which is a little odd, since it limits accessibility, but it’s a minor safety feature as well, since it’s just a bit more fiddly to deal with than just a zipper.
It’s just a bit too tall to be a carry-on, but the good news is that the top pocket squishes flat, so that’ll bring you into compliance with strict airline requirements, as opposed to some of the other, more rigid designs that don’t allow this. And if you do check the bag, the straps tuck away.
Get it here.
That’s the men’s version, but don’t forget there’s a women’s version there, too (and for a much lighter but otherwise similar pack, check out their Trail 40).
11) Osprey Farpoint 40
So I’ve decided to add this to the list, as it’s a popular pack with a great reputation, and it’s definitely worth checking out. It’s just that it does a few things that annoy the hell out of me, as is the case with all Osprey packs, but I’ll get to that in a minute.
First, the good: It’s a carry-on sized backpack with a full-length panel loading design, a dedicated laptop compartment, and hide-away shoulder straps. And those are good shoulder straps, and the waist belt is great, too. They really didn’t skimp on this feature, and it’s also available in two different torso length sizes, so it’s definitely going to be comfortable. And by the way, it’s probably going to be significantly more comfortable than the Osprey Porter 46, which is incredibly similar, but comes in just one size, and with daintier straps. I like how it has an organizer panel on the front, and its compression straps flatten things down by closing its semi-rigid sidewalls, which is a clever way to handle things.
And now, the bad: Osprey never ceases to amaze me with their insistence on using non-stretchy mesh water bottle pockets, with compression straps that go right over the pockets to make them a million times harder to use. I really don’t get it. I also find it to be something of a nuisance how the compression straps block access to the main zippered compartment, meaning it’ll be kind of a hassle getting into and out of the bag. The Farpoint has small external pockets, but the big ones are stuck behind the straps, in a way that annoys me a little more than some of the other packs listed here.
Still, it’ll definitely work, and its hiking pack pedigree means it’ll be a comfortable pack to carry. Another odd, but workable feature is how it carries the laptop on the side farthest from your back. I initially didn’t appreciate this feature, but as laptops become smaller and lighter, the weight distribution is less of an issue, and it protects it from getting squished between your back and the rest of the load.
Get it here.
(You’ll notice the larger versions have a detachable day pack, but not the 40 liter version)
So what makes a good travel pack?
You’ll notice that these packs generally have a number of features in common, some of which I mentioned as necessities, and some of which are easier to see once you line them all up in a row. These are the features of a good carry on backpack ideally suited for travel:
- Carry-on size: 45 liters is plenty for lifelong, indefinite travel all over the world. I did it in 20. You can do it in 45. And if you still want the “extra” pack for quick day trips, consider a compressible one. By the way, keep in mind that certain regional European carriers have stricter limits; 35 liters will likely be fine for them.
- Hide-away straps: But if you do want to check a bag, you certainly can. The straps tuck away so they can’t get snagged or damaged, which is also useful for stuffing them into overhead bins or under a seat.
- Multiple carrying options: You’ll notice each of these packs has at least two handles, always in the same place; the top, and the side. This allows you to carry it like a briefcase, or pull it out of an overhead bin. Plus, the aforementioned backpack straps and occasional messenger bag straps let you carry them however you feel like it.
- Internal compression straps: You pack the bag while it’s flat, then turn it upright. The compression straps keep everything stuck the way you packed it.
- Minimal external compression straps: No dangly silliness to get stuck on whatever. They’re useful, sure, but dammit, why don’t the hiking companies have the dangly end hang on to something so it doesn’t dangle?
- Laptop compartment: Our lives exist in the digital ether. I’ll tell people to skip the laptop if they’re not going to use it, but digital nomads need it, and most people will want one anyway.
- Locking zippers: It’s just that easy to keep your bag protected. Other bags have steel mesh reinforcements throughout the bag, but…the cost/benefit ratio isn’t so ideal. Locking zippers are easy, and hugely helpful (though I’ve recently seen techniques to bypass the lock, so I’ve softened on this as a requirement).
- Flat packing: The whole thing lies down so you can pack it like a suitcase. This is incredibly useful. I don’t know why it’s so rare in the hiking world.
Potential areas for improvement
I do, however, have some problems with certain aspects of carry on backpack designs. Now remember, I’m a nitpicky bastard that can never be satisfied, but dammit, it’s because I’m right. But keep in mind these are issues worth thinking about, rather than deal-breaking problems.
- Minimal hip straps: Transferring the load to your hips makes a huge difference. It’s the difference between “I need a massage” and “let’s go party.” For large, muscular specimens of masculinity, this is probably not such a big deal. It’s also easy to manage if you go straight from the bus station to the hostel, but I’ve often found myself wandering around town with my pack, and it’ll probably happen to you sooner or later as well. It would be nice to see detachable hip straps as an add-on option, though as mentioned, a few of the above options (Tortuga and REI Vagabond) have more serious hip straps than the others, and a simple strap can go a long way in improving the comfort of smaller gear setups.
- Minimal ventilation: This is another problem that arises from longer walks. If it’s winter or you don’t sweat much or you’re going straight to the hostel, good for you. If you plan on walking around for an hour, it’s going to be an issue. I’d normally say the trampoline-style back panel is great, but it’s tough to recommend it for the problems these packs are trying to solve. These packs are supposed to go through luggage checks with no problems, and the trampoline back would need to be protected in order to accommodate that. However, a raised lumbar pad and raised shoulder blade pads would go a long way in diminishing the ventilation problem, without sticking out too much.
- “Water bottle pockets” that don’t fit a water bottle: I’ll start by pointing out that most of the options above are fine in regards to this problem, but I will never stop complaining about inadequate water bottle pockets, because goddammit where the hell do they go?!?!
But again, these are just potential problems. The hip strap issue is likely the most objectively serious, and it’s definitely something to think about if you expect to be walking far and wide on your worldly adventures.
But, all in all, I like these designs. I also like the existence of these designs. I expect carry-on, hybrid packs like these to become increasingly popular, because they’re so efficiently designed to accommodate the needs of lightweight travelers who still need backpack straps, and once you get one…you’ll never need anything else.
Hi! This is Katreena Locsin from Cebu City, Philippines. I am a fourth year student major in Product Design from the University of the Philippines Cebu.I am very thankful to have come across your site because it is very informative and helpful :) I am trying to develop a hand-carry travel daypack/bag for my product thesis. Can I ask for some suggestions from you on how could I develop or innovate the present travel bags in the market? thank you :)
Sure. Head over to the contact page and let me know.
Hey Eytan, any thoughts on the Minaal Daily as a travel backpack? I’ve been eyeing the Synapse since your review, but haven’t pulled the trigger. Been somewhat obsessing over the two as a possible replacement for my current everyday/travel backpack, an old Jansport that’s proved surprisingly resilient over the years.
Actually I have the Minaal 2.0 and the Daily. They sent me some early samples for testing and feedback and so on. I really like both of them. The Daily is very comfortable, and it’s a very practical, minimal daypack. The only potential issue is that there’s no water bottle pocket on the outside, but that’s because of the width, the zipper placement, and the grab handle, so it would have required changing some of those features. I think it looks and feels great, and it has enough organization inside and out that it’s great at home or on a trip, especially if you need to carry a laptop, since that’s what it’s supposed to do.
Glad to hear you are liking the new Minaal bags.
I brought the 1.0 after first reading this page in early 2014 (just missed out on the Kickstart prices), and have been traveling with it everywhere since. Works really well around Europe, never had a problem with airline restrictions, or with fitting enough stuff in the bag (summer or winter – though Christmas in Sweden might be a test).
Backed their new bags in Kickstarter this time, looking forward to getting my hands on them in 2016. The fact you seem to like them is a positive sign, but given how much I like the first bag I expected the follow ups to be good too.
It’s the buckle improvements and the padded hip belt that are the biggest perks, I would say. Those three-dimensional internal pockets in the main compartment also kind of act like built-in packing cubes, too.
The ones of these which I’ve tried in the flesh (the Tortugas and Minaal) are great for packing and the Minaal particularly has a great layout.
However, I’ve gone through a lot of packs over the last 3 years of nomading and I have to say by far my favourite bags are the Osprey Kode series (i’ve had the 22 and now the 32, which both fit heaps for the literage).
A few reasons:
– The both sets of straps and the back panel are vastly more comfortable and body-hugging than anything else I’ve tried
– I fit about as much in my Kode 32 and my friend fits in his Tortuga (45L).
– The pocket layout is great, the main pocket is clamshell and opens on the back, and there’s another large front pocket which I put my dirty clothes dry bag and laptop in.
– 4 small, but big enough to fit a meaningful amount of bits and pieces pockets around the bag (2 on the top and 2 on the belt).
I suggest you take a look, as these bags are often overlooked by most people. I think it’s because they’re actually backcountry snowboarding packs, but that purpose has actually created a really practical and stylish bag (cool colours, I am not a fan of the boring black, although it does come in black too) which is pretty rain proof and extremely durable.
I’m not affiliated with Osprey in any way :p
Yeah, I think alpine packs can be good for travel, because they usually try to keep excess straps to a minimum, which is nice when you’re shoving it into an overhead bin. Another feature of certain climbing packs is the fold-all-the-way-open thing, which I think is for climbing equipment, so you can dump it out all at once.
Can you zip the shoulder straps and waist belt away behind a panel ?
There’s a disadvantage to travelling with cases that open out flat — you need so much space to get something out of the main compartment. That’s fine when you’ve reached your bed at the end of the day, but in a café or on a train, there just isn’t room to do it. That’s why I use Tom Bihn’s Aeronaut 30. What makes it so useful are the two substantial zipped compartments at each end, leaving a square centre compartment with a flexible lid that zips open to fold out of the way. I can get at everything whilst it’s sitting on my lap.
I agree with all that. It manages to open all the way without increasing its total footprint. That’s also why I like when these packs have at least a few exterior pockets, so you can pack it in such a way that you don’t have to open the whole thing except for changing clothes when you get to your room. In theory, anyway.
Hi everybody
we’ve got many problems here in Europe.
One of the most important, is: they don’t sell most of the amazing backpacks that are available there in the US.
It is not possible to find a:
– easy to pack
– well padded and ventilated (most of traveling packs have flat back and small hip belt)
– not enormous (<= 50 liters)
– and that doesn't like a space ship (flashing colors, fancy logos, typical of hiking products).
Can you, or someone, suggest any pack that fulfills those simple points and is possible to buy here in Europe?
The ideal in this sense would be something like the Redwing 44, well padded, front loading, enough pockets, doesn't look like a space ship, and so on.
The Osprey, which is available in EU, is definitely not padded enough if you plan to do a trip with your pack on your back.
I tried to find a reasonable solution, but most of the packs that you can find here in Europe are either rollers, which means no proper belt padding, wheels, high weight, etc.. or hiking backpacks, which means no front access and not easy to organize.
Only a few packs I've come across:
Deuter ACT Trail Pro 40: this backpack feels amazing, incredibly confortable, kind of front loading too.
Small problems: looks like a space ship, only in green and light blue. And it's 38 liters, which might not be enough for more "comples" trips, but this is a minor problem (plenty of 60-70 liters with the right features).
Big problem: despite his front pocket, it lacks organizational compartments (everything must be stack in the main compartment, which is a main issue)
Quechua Forzlac Easy Fit 50: good backpack, not the most confortable (back ventilation and padding could be better), but I used it (well, his brother 70) for two weeks on a roadtrip and I had no main problems with it. Look decent too. It is kind of front loading, which make packing not too hard (single zipper straight along the front).
Problems: it's from Quechua, not sure how long will last; still doesn't look that great; top pocket way too narrow; like the Deuter, it lacks organizational compartments and everything must be stack in the main compartment, which is a main issue.
North Face Storm breaker 35: this pack looks amazing, as rough as it's name. It is nicely padded too, with a decent ventilation system. But it is extremely simple, only one big compartment, almost no other pockets, unsuitable for traveling.
Any suggestions are very welcome.
Cheers
Yeah, international shipping is terrible, especially on larger products like these. You can give eBay a try, since the price might be cheaper overall, but it’s still going to be difficult. The one company I know of that’s located in Europe is Slicks, which has a lot going for it. I’m not sure where they’re shipping from, or if it’ll change at some point, but it might be worth looking into. The Gregory Border 35 might be over there somewhere, and it’s sometimes cheap enough that it might still be affordable, even with the shipping.
Hey, thanks!
I’ve seen those, but the both are lacking some padding that’s needed (to mee at least) when you keep your pack on your back for the whole day (or while hiking).
ps: the worst is that most of the times they don’t even ship overseas:P
zpacks.com Expensive as heck, but the best…especially if you’re looking for light weight.
Could you give a quick opinion about the Eagle Creek Load Hauler Expandable? I was about to buy a Tortuga, but found that one discounted in a shop here in belgium. The tortuga still looks better(padded hip belt, water bottle pockets), but when I include shipping here and taxes, it will probably be 4 times what I would pay for the eagle creek in promotion, and I’m not sure it is worth spending the extra.
Dang…no hip belt at all. That would ruin it for me. Aside from that, it’s not that bad. Lots of compartments, multiple carrying options…the dimensions are the maximum size for carry-on requirements for regular airlines, but it’s too big for the budget carriers, and it has those two pockets that stick out of the top, so you probably can’t use those on a flight (though I’m not sure if they measured them or not).
Managed to get one of my Dad’s friends to agree to send over a Gregory Border 35 from Germany for me. Slightly worried if the 35L capacity will be big enough for 3 months travel, as some reviews say the laptop sleeve takes up a lot of space (i’m not going to take a laptop). Hopefully I can make it work, now gonna start the search for a day pack using your reccomendations :)
It does have that elastic stuff pocket on the outside, so that’s a good place for overflow. It might still be a challenge making it work, but I think it’s worth it for being able to travel only with a carry-on, and other reasons.
My wife and I are traveling to Europe for a vacation and we’ll be staying in hotels and families homes. I’m a “city boy with wilderness delusions” and my wife is the “fashion concious diva” type. She enjoys function, but values form above function… sigh. She recently finished chemo for breast cancer and started a blog http://www.mycancerchic.com (only mentioned to illustrate her personality so you can understand the “type” i’m trying to accommodate).
I’ve got plenty of “tactical” bug-out packs, but i don’t think those are going to work for me on a tourism trip, and i know 100% that the wife isn’t going to wear/carry my Maxpedition Falcon-II backpack…
I’m looking for a pack that i can carry when we go out for the day and keep:
-my laptop, other tech stuff, chargers, phone/ipod with holes for earbuds to extend (i’d rather not have anything in my pockets)
-geigerrig 100 oz. bladder,
-a change of clothes for me and her, extra pair of shoes,
-notebooks/journals,
-sensitive items (passports, ID, money… preferably in an easily accessible side “security” pocket or something like a fanny pack (read: “M”anny pack), or on the shoulder straps
-lots of compartments like the Everki VERSA Executive Pack so i can tell her “…it’s in the left pouch of the 2nd pocket…”
-camelback water bottle in a mesh open top side pocket (it’s obviously pink for the wife haha)
-space for trinkets and souvenirs from the day’s trip
-everyday stuff like toothbrush, toothpaste, snacks and candies…
-first-aid supplies (in their own little pack that can be released/accessed quickly and easily)
-weight bearing cushioned hip strap
-some type of zipper cover that can conceal the straps when i want to pack it overhead on the plane, or in the bed/living room of someone’s house
-waterproof fabric, or a stowable zipper cover would be nice, but not necessary.
-most importantly, i’d like the detachable daypack to be small enough that Anna can put her important items in it and carry it when she’s able and be able to reattach it to the main pack when she needs a break – like the deuter packs (and others) – if the detachable pack was pink i’m sure i’d have to carry it less often haha.
-I don’t need something that’s going to hold camping gear and a week’s worth of supplies, though i’d love it to be modular so i could attach additional packs and pouches when i need to pretend like i’m getting ready for a long TEOTWAWKI event, or a camping trip…
Any specific suggestions?
I think you’re going to have a tough time finding a daypack that can handle both a hydration bladder and a laptop, because they usually have just a single slot that can do one or the other, and putting them both in the same place doesn’t feel safe to me. The bladder probably won’t burst, but every time you fill it up, there’ll be some excess water on the outside. It’s probably going to work better to bring a regular backpack with a laptop sleeve, and use both side mesh pockets for water bottles. That way you have plenty to drink, the load is balanced evenly, and the water isn’t anywhere near any electronics.
If you’re looking for something that has a detachable daypack option, the aforementioned Deuter, and also Eagle Creek and Osprey have a few options like that, but I generally prefer using a carry-on size backpack, like the ones listed here, and stuffing a smaller, hopefully packable daypack inside. A packable daypack won’t be structured or strong, but if you’re just carrying some extra clothing and a water bottle and that sort of thing, it’s fine. But if you want to carry your laptop, you’ll want a “real” backpack. The best option in that case is a student backpack, which is a good daypack size, and has a padded laptop compartment. That would be in addition to the “big” backpack, which can be one of the ones listed here. If you get two backpacks that are sold separately, they won’t clip together, but sometimes people prefer doing it that way anyway. So I think your best bet is to take a look at the options from Deuter, Eagle Creek, and Osprey, and if you don’t like those, then a student backpack will be good for the smaller one. I usually just take a look at REI’s selection of laptop backpacks, which includes a lot from North Face, and that’ll give you plenty of options.
Yeah, it’s been tough to find a carry-on size pack that also allows a smaller pack to be attached. I’ve been thinking about just hooking up caribiners or something like that to my existing pack so I can carry the wife’s pack when she gets “tired” haha.
Im really liking those everki packs, but those things are so dang expensive and don’t have the slash-proof wire mesh in the fabric so I’m worried about that part while in Europe.
I’ve never heard of anyone getting a bag slashed, so…yes, it happens, but I wouldn’t get too worked up over it. Keep your passport somewhere else, and just keep a jacket and basic things like that in the backpack, and you’ll be fine.
Have your wife look at Ethnotek bags/backpacks. They may not meet all your functional needs, but they are high quality, pretty travel bags with a cause – helping employ artisan weavers in small villages around the world. From a BRCA1+ BC survivor.
Do you have any recommendations for petite women? While I know you won’t have had any personal experience in this area, I figure you are still a bit more informed than I am on everything that is out there. I am planning a month long trip in Japan in late April and I do not want to take my unwieldy (and beyond irksome to get anything out of) camping/hiking bag. I’ve been looking around a lot but everything I have found is either too big for me to be comfortable (16.5 torso) or useless for my needs. As I will basically be walking (or at least on my feet) the whole time and crashing at hostels at night, some serious functionality is a must. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
The Minaal backpack (in my opinion) is nicely designed for somewhat smaller people. I wear a men’s size small, and although I’m not sure what that’s like compared to women’s sizes, I can tell you that the pack fits me just fine, and doesn’t feel like it’s oversized for my body. You can see how the straps don’t connect directly to the top of the pack, but curve downward behind your shoulders, which is nice. Osprey and Gregory have multiple sizes for a lot of their packs too, including female-specific ones, though not necessarily the travel packs discussed here. Hopefully that’ll give you some options…
I have traveled quite a bit but have always overpacked using suitcases. I’m heading to New Zealand in about a week and a half and wanted to be more minimal since we’ll be relocating to a new town almost every day. I had decided I’d do the Rick Steves but my time is now too short to get it without paying $50 in shipping costs. I did some hunting and found the eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible Junior. Any thoughts on this backpack for a three week trip? This site has been great for providing travel tips. Thank you!
The only thing I expect will be a real problem is the way the hip belt connects to the pack, leaving the plastic buckle right where it’ll squish into your hips. That’s just terrible. But if you don’t use the hip belt, then I think it’ll probably be just fine.
Thank you! That’s what I noticed as well. I’m going to give it a try but will probably end up investing in the Tortuga or Rick Steve’s eventually. Your website is great! Thanks for the time and attention to it. I’m learning a great deal!