10 Best Backpacks for Travel in 2024: Ultimate One Bag Solutions

October 16, 2024

10 Best Backpacks for Travel in 2024: Ultimate One Bag Solutions

Ever been caught in a luggage tug-of-war at the airport? We've all been there, and it's no fun. That's why finding the best backpack for travel is like striking gold. It's not just about having a place to stash your stuff; it's about nailing that perfect balance of comfort, durability, and smart design. We're talking about packs that have your back with features like compression straps, load lifters, and a hip belt that'll make you forget you're even carrying anything.

In this guide, we're diving into the cream of the crop for 2024. We've put these bags through their paces to bring you the ultimate one-bag solutions. From lightweight champs to waterproof wonders, we're covering it all. Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or a newbie to the one-bag life, we've got you covered. Get ready to discover the best travel packs that'll have you breezing through airports and hitting the road in style. Let's jump in and find your perfect travel buddy!

Osprey Farpoint 40

_{Image Source:}_Osprey

### Key Features The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a top pick for the best backpack for travel, thanks to its thoughtful design and features. It boasts adjustable load lifters to fine-tune the fit, along with a padded hip belt and sternum strap for optimal weight distribution. The pack's lightweight 450D recycled polyester material is water-resistant, ensuring your gear stays dry in light rain. Compression straps help cinch down the load, while the clamshell-style main compartment offers easy packing access.

Comfort and Fit

Osprey's signature suspension system shines in the Farpoint 40, providing exceptional comfort for extended wear. The contoured shoulder straps feature dense foam padding and mesh for breathability, connected by an adjustable sternum strap with an emergency whistle. The back panel's ridged foam and center cutout promote ventilation, and the entire harness can be fine-tuned using a torso height adjuster for a personalized fit ^[1]. These elements work together to make the Farpoint 40 one of the most comfortable travel backpacks available.

Organization

While the Farpoint 40 may not have an abundance of organizational features, its thoughtful design still allows for efficient packing. The spacious main compartment can be enhanced with packing cubes or accessories, and internal compression straps help secure contents. A dedicated laptop sleeve accommodates devices up to 16 inches, and the top quick-access pocket is ideal for storing essentials like a passport or headphones. The versatile water bottle pockets can also be used to stash a light jacket or other gear when not holding a hydration vessel.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Exceptional comfort for extended wear
Adjustable torso height for a custom fit
Lightweight and durable recycled polyester material
Clamshell-style main compartment for easy packing
Versatile water bottle pockets

Cons:

Limited built-in organizational features
Non-removable hip belt (though it can be tucked away)

The Osprey Farpoint 40 excels as a travel backpack for those seeking comfort, durability, and versatility in a carry-on compatible package. Its adjustable harness and thoughtful design make it a top choice for globetrotters and adventurers alike.

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

_{Image Source:}_{Peak Design}

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L boasts an innovative design that prioritizes versatility and durability. Its weatherproof 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell and 900D waterproof bottom liner ensure your gear stays protected in various conditions ^[1]. The bag's expandable capacity, allowing it to go from 35L to 45L, makes it adaptable for different trip lengths. Multiple access points, including back, side, and front panel access, provide easy retrieval of your belongings. The bag also features a dedicated laptop sleeve, external quick-access pockets, and compatibility with Peak Design's packing tools for ultimate organization. Comfort is ensured through the adjustable shoulder straps and stowable hip belt, while the sternum strap adds stability. The best travel pack for those seeking a high-quality, feature-rich backpack.

Tortuga Setout

_{Image Source:}_{www.tortugabackpacks.com}

The Tortuga Setout boasts a 45-liter capacity, making it an ideal choice for one bag travel. This lightweight backpack weighs just 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) ^[1], allowing you to maximize your packing space without adding excess bulk. The Setout's sleek design features durable, water-resistant 900D polyester fabric and reliable YKK zippers for long-lasting performance ^[2]. A well-padded hip belt and sternum strap work together to distribute weight evenly, ensuring comfort during extended wear. The backpack's clamshell-style main compartment offers easy packing access, while internal compression straps keep contents secure. A dedicated laptop sleeve accommodates devices up to 17 inches, and thoughtful organizational pockets keep essentials within reach.

Aer Travel Pack 3

_{Image Source:}_Aer

The Aer Travel Pack 3 boasts a sleek, streamlined design that prioritizes smart organization for efficient one-bag travel. The durable 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon exterior, YKK zippers, and Duraflex plastic hardware ensure long-lasting performance ^[1]. A padded, suspended laptop pocket accommodates devices up to 16 inches, while the lay-flat main compartment offers spacious storage and easy packing. Compression straps with magnetic fasteners provide stability and security, and quick-access top and side pockets keep small valuables within reach. Load lifters enhance support and comfort, making the Aer Travel Pack 3 one of the best travel packs available.

Sleek Esthetics

The Aer Travel Pack 3's clean lines and minimalist esthetic appeal to tech-savvy travelers seeking a sophisticated carry-on solution. The bag's sleek design is enhanced by its choice of durable, high-quality materials, such as the water-resistant 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon exterior. The streamlined look is maintained by thoughtfully placed pockets and compartments that provide ample storage without adding bulk.

Smart Organization

One of the standout features of the Aer Travel Pack 3 is its intelligent organization. The bag features a range of well-designed pockets and compartments to keep your essentials neatly sorted and easily accessible. The dedicated laptop compartment safely suspends your device, while the lay-flat main compartment allows for efficient packing. Quick-access top and side pockets provide convenient storage for smaller items, and the bag's compression straps with magnetic fasteners keep your load secure and stable.

Durability

Built to withstand the rigors of frequent travel, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is crafted from high-quality materials that ensure long-lasting durability. The 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon exterior is both water-resistant and abrasion-resistant, while the YKK zippers and Duraflex plastic hardware provide reliable performance. The bag's sturdy construction and attention to detail make it a dependable choice for travelers who demand the best from their gear.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Sleek, minimalist design appeals to tech-savvy travelers
Smart organization with well-designed pockets and compartments
Durable, high-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance
Comfortable carry with load lifters and padded shoulder straps
Lay-flat main compartment for easy packing

Cons:

Limited color options (black, gray, and olive)
No external water bottle pocket
Higher price point compared to some other travel backpacks

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a durable, well-organized, and stylish carry-on backpack. Its combination of sleek esthetics, smart features, and high-quality construction make it one of the best backpacks for travel on the market.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

_{Image Source:}_{Common Thread Story – Cotopaxi}

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands out with its vibrant, unique color combinations, thanks to the brand's commitment to using remnant fabrics for their Del Día line ^[1]. This modular packing system features a TPU-coated 1000D polyester shell and 840D ballistic nylon paneling, providing durability and water resistance ^[2]. The bag's design prioritizes sustainability, with Cotopaxi's mission to use fairly sourced materials and fairly paid workers . Comfort is ensured through the adjustable shoulder straps, stowable hip belt, and sternum strap, making the Allpa 35L an excellent choice for travelers seeking a stylish, eco-friendly, and versatile backpack.

Unique Style

One of the most striking aspects of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is its unique, vibrant color combinations. As part of Cotopaxi's Del Día line, each bag is crafted from remnant fabrics, resulting in one-of-a-kind color schemes ^[1]. This not only adds a distinctive flair to the backpack but also reflects the brand's commitment to sustainability and reducing waste. The Allpa 35L's eye-catching design is sure to turn heads and spark conversations during your travels.

Modular Packing System

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L features a well-thought-out modular packing system that allows for efficient organization and easy access to your belongings. The bag's main compartment is accessed through a suitcase-style opening, making packing and unpacking a breeze ^[2]. Inside, you'll find multiple pockets and compartments to keep your gear neatly sorted, as well as compression straps to secure your load. The Allpa 35L is also compatible with Cotopaxi's packing cubes, allowing you to further customize your packing setup.

Sustainability

Sustainability is at the core of Cotopaxi's mission, and the Allpa 35L is a prime example of the brand's commitment to ethical and eco-friendly practices. The bag is crafted from a combination of TPU-coated 1000D polyester and 840D ballistic nylon, both of which are durable and water-resistant ^[2]. Cotopaxi sources these materials fairly and ensures that their workers are paid fair wages . By choosing the Allpa 35L, you're not only investing in a high-quality travel backpack but also supporting a brand that prioritizes social and environmental responsibility.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Unique, vibrant color combinations for a distinctive look
Modular packing system for efficient organization
Durable and water-resistant materials
Comfortable carry with adjustable shoulder straps, hip belt, and sternum strap
Sustainable and ethical production practices

Cons:

Limited color options for those who prefer a more subdued esthetic
Slightly heavier than some other travel backpacks in its class
No dedicated water bottle pocket

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is an excellent choice for travelers who value style, sustainability, and functionality in their travel backpack. Its unique design, modular packing system, and comfortable carry make it a standout option in the crowded travel pack market.

Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

_{Image Source:}_Nomatic

The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L boasts a range of innovative features that make it one of the best travel packs on the market. Its patented strap system allows for seamless transitions between backpack and duffel carry, ensuring versatility on the go. The bag's spacious main compartment provides ample room for all your travel essentials, while dedicated pockets for shoes, liquids, tech, and other items keep you organized throughout your journey.

Crafted from durable, water-resistant materials, the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is built to withstand the rigors of travel. Its carry-on size and TSA-ready laptop sleeve make navigating airport security a breeze, while the included laundry bag helps keep dirty clothes separate during your trip. With comfort-enhancing features like load lifters and a removable hip belt, this lightweight yet sturdy backpack is designed for optimal comfort and durability on all your adventures.

Versatility

One of the standout features of the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is its versatility. Whether you're embarking on a weekend getaway or a week-long business trip, this bag adapts to your needs. The patented strap system allows you to effortlessly switch between backpack and duffel carry, ensuring comfort and convenience in various travel situations.

The bag's spacious main compartment provides ample room for clothing and other essentials, while the dedicated shoe compartment keeps your footwear separate and easily accessible. The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L also features a waterproof pocket for storing liquids or wet items, ensuring your other belongings stay dry and protected.