So, you’re all ready to go and have your travelling adventure. You’ve planned your route, you’ve booked your tickets, you’ve even bought all those little gimmicky travel size shampoo bottles. The question is now, what do you pack all your stuff into?
Taking suitcases or roller cases can be easier to organise as you can open them up and immediately see all your stuff – but they are bulky and cumbersome to carry around, especially if you’re jumping on and off trains, buses and trying to squeeze them into hostel lockers. For multiple locations and adventure travel, suitcases just aren’t that practical. There’s a reason longer term travellers are also called backpackers.
That being said, also in the world of backpacks, there are tons of options. From different levels of literage (that’s just pack size to you and me), to different support straps, openings, and even weight distributions designed for women’s body types, there’s a lot to unpack – pun intended…
So, let’s dive in and see what are the best backpacking backpacks to travel with.
4 Best Backpacking Backpacks
1. Osprey Fairview Trek 50
When you’re looking at adventure travel backpacks and rucksacks, Osprey has been one of the biggest names in the game for a reason. With a whole host of different sizes, styles, weights and features, they’re constantly innovating and testing with real travellers to make the best backpacks possible.
With the Fairview Trek 50, you can have the comfort and portability of a backpack with a super convenient suitcase style opening, which allows you to access specific items exactly when you need them – no need to buy packing cubes or pull everything out to find something here.
As a mid-size travel and trekking backpack it’s perfect for those longer adventures where you don’t want to be carrying too much weight. This might be because it’s warmer climates or because you’re travelling for a while and have consistent access to a washing machine.
This backpack has breathable trampoline mesh on the back to prevent that dreaded sweat patch, hidden security pockets, lockable zippers and twin zippered hipbelt pockets to keep all your valuables safe and secure. It comes in womens and mens fit so it contours to your body and puts the weight and pressure through the right areas for maximum comfort.
2. Kathmandu Hybrid 70L Trolley
If you’re travelling for long periods of time but aren’t fully convinced by the backpacker life, or simply want multiple carrying options then this 70L Kathmandu Hybrid Trolley might be the perfect solution for you.
It’s made out of super lightweight, durable material that stands the test of time and will work for wherever your adventure takes you.
The breathable backpack panel allows you to wear this hybrid trolley for hours without getting damp, uncomfortable and without experiencing uneven weight distribution. This Kathmandu Hybrid Trolley is truly a versatile, in-between travel bag that’s ideal for beginners.
3. Berghaus Motive Travel 60 + 20 Litre Rucksack
Who doesn’t like two bags for the price of one?! When you buy this Berghaus Motive Travel 60 + 20 Litre Rucksack, you get a large 60L travelling backpack along with a 20L day pack that seamlessly attach to each other to give you a combined 80L of storage, without having to try and wear two backpacks!
This is a perfect option for anyone going on an outdoors travel adventure with a separate pocket for wet gear, space to attach your hiking poles and a specially designed BIOFIT™ back system which allows you to make bespoke back length adjustments to suit your size and shape.
The Berghaus Motive Travel 60 + 20 Litre Rucksack is a comfortable and dependable option from a brand that’s well known in the outdoors space for offering quality at an affordable price.
4. Gregory TETRAD 60
If you’re looking for a travel backpack with a sleek design that’s comfortable and easy to access then look no further than the Gregory TETRAD 60. With a zip off 20L day pack attached to the outside, it’s a versatile option that doesn’t look as bulky as your traditional backpacker bag.
Made out of highly durable nylon with an alloy steel frame, this backpack is lightweight while being sturdy and secure no matter how much it gets chucked about at the airport or in the cargo holds of buses and trains. The 3-in-1 anti theft, damage and raincover gives you peace of mind while you’re on the trails or exploring your next city break.
Available in black or bright orange, it’s an aesthetically pleasing and highly comfortable option for anyone who wants to immediately be able to spot their pack on a luggage belt or in a pile of bags at a bus station.
Best Backpacking Backpacks Roundup
So, there you have it – the best backpacking backpacks for you to test out and enjoy whether you’re hitting the trails, exploring cobblestone towns, running around cities or a combination of all kinds of travel.
It’s worth noting that a lot of these companies and brands offer quality guarantees and warranties – some up to a lifetime length – if your backpack breaks or gets damaged. So, it’s always worth checking directly with them to see if this is something they offer. After all, we know how much damage our bags can take on the road and if we need to keep replacing rather than fixing them, not only is that expensive, it’s also not great for the environment around us.
The best way to find out what travel backpacks feel right for you is to head to your nearest outdoor retailer and try a few on. Don’t forget to try them on with some weight in them – ask a member of staff if you could borrow a sleeping bag or some boots to put in them to see how the weight distribution and comfort level feels. Most will be fine with this – no one’s walking around with an empty pack after all!
