The Ultimate Travel Backpack Buying Guide

TL;DR

This guide compiles the best travel backpacks based on extensive Reddit discussions and user reviews, highlighting key features, pros, and cons of each product.

Top Picks

Budget: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack - Durable and weatherproof with excellent organization for minimalist travel. Buy on Amazon
Mid-range: Osprey Farpoint 40 - Highly comfortable and meets carry-on requirements, ideal for one-bag travel. Buy on Amazon
Premium: PeakDesign Travel Backpack - Modular design and weatherproof materials make it perfect for photographers and versatile travelers. Buy on Amazon

Quick Summary

Travel backpacks are essential for modern travelers seeking convenience, comfort, and functionality. With a plethora of options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide aims to simplify the decision-making process by presenting top-reviewed travel backpacks that cater to various needs and budgets.

TL;DR
Quick Summary
Key Buying Factors
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Top Product Reviews
Price Guide
Personalized Recommendations
Community Insights
Final Verdict

Key Buying Factors

Before making your purchase, consider these essential factors:

Comfort and Fit

Ensure the backpack has an adjustable harness system and padded straps to distribute weight evenly, especially for extended wear.

Capacity and Organization

Look for a backpack that offers ample space and compartments for easy organization of travel essentials.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Select a backpack made from high-quality, weatherproof materials to withstand various travel conditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others’ experiences - here are key pitfalls to watch out for:

Ignoring the weight of the backpack

A heavy backpack can limit the amount of gear you can carry, especially when airlines impose weight restrictions.

Choosing style over functionality

While aesthetics matter, prioritize features that enhance comfort and usability for travel.

Not considering the size requirements of airlines

Always check airline carry-on size limits to avoid extra fees or the inconvenience of checking your bag.

Top Product Reviews

Our detailed analysis of the best options available:

Osprey Farpoint 40

The Osprey Farpoint 40 has emerged as a top contender for travelers seeking a versatile, comfortable, and functional backpack. With numerous positive mentions across Reddit discussions, it is particularly praised for its comfort during extended wear and its compliance with airline carry-on requirements. Users appreciate its spacious interior and organizational capabilities, making it ideal for both short trips and longer journeys. However, some users express concerns regarding its weight, especially when packed to capacity, which can take up a significant portion of the allowed carry-on limit.

Features

Spacious main compartment with clamshell opening for easy packing and access
Adjustable torso length harness system for a customized fit and comfort during travel

User Experiences

Many users have shared their experiences of traveling with the Osprey Farpoint 40 for extended periods, noting its comfort and ease of use. One user mentioned successfully using it for a two-month trip in Southeast Asia, highlighting its durability and functionality despite the challenges of packing light.

Pros

Highly comfortable harness system that distributes weight evenly
Meets most airline carry-on size requirements, making it convenient for travel

Cons

Some users feel the bag can be heavy when fully packed, potentially limiting the amount of gear they can carry

Best Use Cases

Ideal for one-bag travel, weekend getaways, and longer trips where packing light is essential

Price-Performance Ratio

The Osprey Farpoint 40 is priced competitively for its quality and features, offering excellent value for travelers looking for a reliable and comfortable backpack.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

Aer Travel Pack 3

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is widely regarded as an excellent choice for travelers seeking a versatile and comfortable backpack. Users on various Reddit threads highly recommend it for its organizational capabilities and comfort during travel. With an overall positive sentiment, many users appreciate its sleek design that doesn’t compromise on functionality. The bag’s dimensions make it suitable for carry-on travel, fitting easily under most airline seats, which is a significant advantage for frequent flyers.

Features

Clamshell opening for easy packing and access
Multiple internal pockets for organization, including a dedicated laptop compartment

User Experiences

One user mentioned that they traveled for two weeks in Vietnam with the Aer Travel Pack 3 and found it comfortable during longer walks, effectively using the front organization as a Dopp kit.

Pros

Exceptional organization with multiple compartments and pockets
Comfortable fit with load lifters that enhance weight distribution

Cons

Some users find it slightly heavier compared to other travel backpacks

Best Use Cases

Ideal for one-bag travel, especially for trips requiring efficient packing and easy access to items

Price-Performance Ratio

While the Aer Travel Pack 3 is on the higher end of the price spectrum, its durability, organizational features, and comfort justify the investment for serious travelers.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a well-regarded travel backpack that has garnered positive feedback across various Reddit discussions. Users appreciate its spaciousness, comfort, and versatility, making it a popular choice for both short and long trips. Its design allows it to meet TSA carry-on requirements, which is a significant advantage for travelers. The consensus among users is that it strikes a good balance between capacity and portability, making it suitable for a variety of travel styles.

Features

Spacious 46L capacity ideal for 1-2 weeks of travel
Comfortable carrying system with padded shoulder straps and hip belt

User Experiences

I’ve been using the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L for my travels. It’s spacious enough to hold everything I need for a week or two. It’s comfortable to carry as a backpack, even with a heavy load, and it fits TSA carry-on size requirements. It’s a solid option if you’re looking for a reliable travel backpack.

Pros

Large capacity suitable for extended travel
Comfortable to carry with a well-designed harness system

Cons

May be too large for some budget airlines’ carry-on restrictions

Best Use Cases

Ideal for long-term travel or trips requiring a lot of gear

Price-Performance Ratio

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L offers excellent value for its price, given its durability, comfort, and spaciousness, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

PeakDesign Travel Backpack

The PeakDesign Travel Backpack is widely discussed among travelers for its durability and organizational features. Made from weatherproof materials, it is highly rated for its ability to withstand various travel conditions. Users appreciate its modular design, which allows customization for different types of trips, especially for those carrying camera gear. While some discussions mention alternatives, the consensus is that the PeakDesign backpack holds its own in terms of quality and functionality.

Features

Weatherproof materials for durability
Modular design with customizable packing cubes

User Experiences

One user mentioned that they bought the PeakDesign Travel Backpack specifically for its modularity, allowing them to optimize the interior for carrying camera gear on their trips. They found it to be more than capable of handling everything they threw at it.

Pros

Highly durable and weatherproof
Excellent organizational features with modular packing options

Cons

Some users feel it may be overbuilt and thus overpriced for casual travelers

Best Use Cases

Ideal for photographers and travelers needing a versatile and durable backpack for various gear

Price-Performance Ratio

While the PeakDesign Travel Backpack is on the higher end of the price spectrum, its durability and functionality justify the investment for serious travelers.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack has garnered a positive reputation among travelers on Reddit for its unique design, functionality, and durability. Users appreciate its ability to fit as a carry-on while providing excellent organization. The pack is noted for its weatherproof capabilities and high-quality materials, ensuring it withstands the rigors of travel. The lifetime warranty offered by Cotopaxi adds to its appeal, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. Overall, the Allpa 35L combines style with practicality, making it a favorite among minimalist travelers.

Features

Durable construction with weatherproof materials
Suitcase-style opening for easy packing and access

User Experiences

I’ve used the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L on multiple trips, and it’s held up amazingly well. It’s super durable, fits perfectly as a carry-on, and has great organization with its suitcase-style opening.

Pros

Highly durable and weatherproof
Excellent organization with multiple compartments

Cons

Some users may prefer a larger capacity for longer trips

Best Use Cases

Ideal for minimalist travel and one-bag trips

Price-Performance Ratio

Given its durability and functionality, the price of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is justified, especially with the added benefit of a lifetime warranty.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

Price Guide

Find the best option for your budget:

Personalized Recommendations

For Enthusiasts

Aer Travel Pack 3
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L

For Professionals

PeakDesign Travel Backpack

For Budget conscious

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Osprey Farpoint 40

Community Insights

Overall Trends

Travelers prioritize comfort, organization, and durability in their backpack choices.
There is a strong preference for backpacks that meet airline carry-on requirements.
Modularity and customization are increasingly valued features among serious travelers.

Top Picks from the Crowd

Osprey Farpoint 40
Aer Travel Pack 3
PeakDesign Travel Backpack

Controversial Opinions

Some users believe that heavier backpacks are less practical for minimalist travel, while others argue that comfort should not be sacrificed for weight.

Final Verdict

In summary, the travel backpack market offers a variety of options tailored to different needs and preferences. The Osprey Farpoint 40 stands out for its comfort and versatility, making it an excellent choice for beginners and budget-conscious travelers. For enthusiasts, the Aer Travel Pack 3 and Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L provide exceptional organization and capacity. Professionals seeking a premium option will appreciate the PeakDesign Travel Backpack for its durability and modularity. As travel trends continue to evolve, the emphasis on comfort, organization, and meeting airline requirements will likely shape future backpack designs, making it essential for travelers to stay informed about the best options available.