Embarking on an international journey brings the essential task of selecting a suitable travel companion to forefront: your backpack. With myriad options crowding the market, distinguishing between mere hype and true quality can be daunting for even seasoned globetrotters.
As an expert with years spent rigorously testing gear across continents, I offer insights grounded in first-hand experience.
Recognizing the perfect rucksack involves more than eye-catching design; it’s about unearthing a fusion of durability, functionality, and comfort tailored to worldly adventures. The significance of wise brand selection cannot be understated—it’s a choice that influences not only what you carry but how you experience your travels.
Continue reading for a guide poised to navigate this crucial decision effortlessly. Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a tough, multi-functional travel pack that’s great for keeping things organized and fits as carry-on luggage.
- Peak Design Travel Backpack expands from 35L to 45L, making it ideal for tech-loving travelers who need versatility and style on their trips.
- Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L blends the ease of a suitcase with the flexibility of a backpack, perfect for travelers who want comfort and security in one.
- Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L stands out with its eco-friendly materials and functional design, offering multiple carrying options to suit any journey.
Top Travel Backpack Picks for International Trips
When it comes to international travel, selecting the right backpack can make all the difference in your journey. Amongst the myriad of options, standout choices include the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L for its robust build and clever storage compartments; Peak Design’s Travel Backpack that balances innovative features with sleek aesthetics; Osprey’s Sojourn Porter 46L offering versatility with its wheeled function; Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L for those seeking compact efficiency; and the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack as an economical yet reliable companion.
Each pack brings unique advantages to accommodate a diverse range of travelers’ needs.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel pack is a top choice for travelers who want a bag that does it all. It has a smart design with lots of pockets and compartments to keep things neat and easy to find.
This backpack gets great reviews, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 1,000 people. Its tough build means you can count on it trip after trip.
You can carry the Allpa 35L like a backpack or handle it like a suitcase, making moving through airports or cities smooth and simple. It sticks to size rules for carry-on luggage, so you won’t have to pay extra fees at the airport.
The pack is light too, weighing just over three pounds, which makes carrying it around comfortable and not tiring on your back or shoulders.
This versatile bag was checked against 26 other travel packs to see how well it handled stuff like how much it can hold, its shape, how comfy it is to wear, if it lasts long time, and whether you get good value for what you pay.
Plus, this pack is ready for international adventures without checking in baggage—just grab your passport and go!
Peak Design Travel Backpack
Moving from the adventure-ready Cotopaxi Allpa, we shift our focus to something crafted for tech-savvy travelers. The Peak Design Travel Backpack is a top pick for international trips.
It fits as an approved carry-on at 35L but can expand to hold 45L when you need more space. People love its ability to grow or shrink with a pull of its compression straps. This bag has smart features like lockable zippers and pockets where you can safely put your laptop.
Durability meets sleek style in this travel backpack, making it perfect for minimalist travelers who also want easy access to their gear. Its well-placed laptop sleeve keeps your computer safe while on the move.
Made from strong materials like ballistic nylon, this pack stands up to tough trips. Although it may be more expensive than other options, many agree that its unique design and comfort make it worth the price.
And if something goes wrong? There’s a lifetime guarantee backing you up.
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L
The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L combines the best of both worlds for travelers who like a backpack’s flexibility with the neatness of a suitcase. It holds your stuff tight with internal StraightJacket straps and lets you walk through hot places without getting too sweaty, thanks to its AirScape backpanel.
Locking zippers keep your things safe, while a smart top panel hides away most zipper tracks from curious hands.
This pack is carry-on compliant, so you can skip the checked bag fees and head straight to your gate. It makes moving through busy airports easy and keeps you ready for adventure. Next up is the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L, another great choice for on-the-go travel.
Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
Moving on, Topo Designs brings something special to the table with their Global Travel Bag 30L. This bag ticks all the boxes for international travelers looking for a reliable carry-on.
It’s crafted from recycled materials, showing that you can travel responsibly without sacrificing quality or function. With backpack straps, a shoulder strap, and grab handles, this bag offers three convenient ways to carry it through bustling airports or down narrow cobblestone streets.
You’ll love how this rucksack comes ready for any adventure. Its sturdy build means it can handle being tossed into overhead bins or taxi trunks. Packing is made simple with its rectangular shape that opens like a suitcase but carries like a top-notch daypack.
There’s room for your laptop in a dedicated compartment and plenty of pockets to keep small items organized. The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L is an ideal travel companion for those who want durability without compromising on style or organization.
Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack
The Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack is a good choice for people who want to save money but still have a bag that does a lot. This backpack costs less than many others, yet it’s big enough for most airlines’ carry-on rules.
It has special zips just for your laptop, making it easy to get to during security checks at the airport. You can put many things in the front part because it is well set up.
Its material isn’t as tough as some other bags, and sometimes the inside stitches might break if you pack too much. But even with these issues, many travelers like this backpack because it works well and doesn’t cost too much.
The straps make it comfy to wear and you can keep water bottles in its pockets on the side while walking through new cities.
After talking about how the Amazon Basics bag helps travelers on international trips, let’s look at what makes one travel backpack better than another one.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Travel Backpack
Selecting the ideal travel backpack necessitates careful consideration of essential features such as capacity and size to ensure your load is manageable, organization and access for optimal convenience, comfort and varied carrying options to reduce strain during long transits, construction materials that promise durability over diverse terrains, and a commitment to sustainability to align with eco-conscious travel practices.
Capacity and size
Picking the right travel backpack means looking at how much it can hold. The volume of a backpack is its capacity, and that tells you a lot about what you can pack inside. Travel backpacks are usually measured in liters, with sizes ranging from small daypacks to larger options for long trips.
A bigger bag might seem better, but remember airlines have limits for carry-on bags – often around 43 to 45 liters.
You’ll want to check if your favorite travel bag fits within those rules before flying. Bags like the Osprey Farpoint 40 or Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L are designed to fit most airline requirements while giving you enough space for all your needs.
Carry-ons save time and money without waiting at baggage claim or paying extra fees. But even if you’re not flying, choosing a size that’s right will help keep everything organized without weighing you down on your adventure.
Organization and access
After finding a backpack that fits all your stuff, it’s just as important to think about how you’ll pack and get to your things. Good travel backpacks have smart pockets and sections.
This makes it easy to reach what you need without digging through everything. Look for bags with a clamshell opening – this lets the bag open like a suitcase so you can see all your items at once.
Bags often come with special spots for your water bottle, laptop, and even hidden pockets for important things like passports or money. Some bags have straps on their sides so they can hold more items if needed.
It’s super helpful when a bag has lots of different compartments inside too; this way small things don’t get lost among bigger items. A well-organized bag means faster and stress-free packing and unpacking which is exactly what you want when traveling around the world!
Comfort and carrying options
Comfort and carrying options are key for any good travel backpack. They can make your trip much better or worse. A well-designed backpack has padding in the right places, strong support, and spreads weight evenly.
Good comfort means you can carry your bag longer without getting tired.
Look out for bags that have padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a sternum strap. These help you carry heavy loads with ease. You should also check if the backpack has a system to keep your back cool like open foam or mesh panels.
Some bags even let you switch how you carry them around. They may come with handles so you can hold them like a suitcase when needed. Before choosing a bag, think about what kind of traveling you will do and how long each trip will be.
This way, you find one that fits all your needs best.
Backpack brands offer different styles and comforts for travelers. Brands like Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L give great support while others focus on being light and easy to take along everywhere.
Always try on different backpacks to see which feels best on your back because everyone likes different things when it comes to comfort while traveling.
Construction and durability
Travel backpacks must also endure the tough demands of your adventures. Good construction and durability mean your rucksack will hold up trip after trip. Look for materials like ripstop nylon, dyneema®, or kodra nylon known for their strength.
These fabrics resist tears and can handle heavy loads without falling apart.
Many travel packs include YKK zippers because they are very reliable. Waterproofing features like thermoplastic polyurethane lamination help keep your stuff dry in rain. Bags may have special covers to protect against water too.
It’s smart to pick a backpack with a strong frame made of materials like carbon fiber or aluminum. These frames make carrying heavy gear easier on your back and shoulders. Sturdy stitching and reinforced areas prevent straps from ripping off when you’re running to catch that train or plane.
In short, choosing a well-made rucksack means less worry about breaks and repairs while you explore the world!
Sustainability
Just as a backpack’s toughness matters, so does its friendliness to our planet. Brands with strong environmental ethics are choosing to make bags that look after nature. They turn old plastic bottles into recycled polyester and use things like vegetable-tanned leather instead of the usual kind.
These materials help reduce waste and pollution.
Every choice we make sends out ripples – picking a sustainable travel backpack can be one of them. Look for words like ‘water resistant’, ‘organic’, or ‘recycled’ when you check out tags.
Think about how your bag is made too; support businesses that treat their workers well and care for the Earth just as much as they do for making quality gear. Choosing such responsible packs means carrying not only what’s essential but also a commitment to protect our world wherever you go.
The Best Backpack Brands for Travel
When selecting a travel companion to store your essentials, discerning globetrotters often turn to trusted names like Herschel for their classic designs, Gregory for innovative carrying systems, Samsonite for robust construction, Cotopaxi for vibrant and socially responsible options, and Eagle Creek for organization features tailored to the adventurous traveler.
Each of these brands has carved out a niche in the travel gear market by consistently delivering quality rucksacks that cater not just to the aesthetics but also to the practical demands of modern journeyers.
Herschel
Herschel backpacks are known for their quality and variety, making them a top pick for travelers. People who love to travel, go to school, or need a laptop bag often choose Herschel.
This brand stands out because it pays attention to small details but still keeps prices fair. Whether you’re packing for college or setting off on an adventure, Herschel has something that will fit your needs.
They offer a wide range of items like rucksacks, duffle bags, caps, and other fun accessories. Their products hit the mark with folks aged 18-40 years old. If you’re looking for a travel companion that is trendy yet functional with a streamlined design and organizational pockets, Herschel might be the perfect match.
Moving on from stylish storage solutions to more technical considerations in pack selection can make your trip even better.
Gregory
While Herschel may catch your eye with trendy designs, Gregory steps up as a strong contender in the realm of travel backpacks. Known for making sturdy hiking packs, this brand also crafts backpacks perfect for worldwide adventures.
The Gregory Border 35 stands out as an excellent choice for travelers seeking a blend of simplicity and affordability without compromising quality.
Gregory isn’t just another name on the shelf; they’ve earned their stripes by providing high-quality options that rival bigger brands. Their travel backpacks are especially appealing to those who prioritize durability and reliability on their journeys.
With features like comfortable suspension systems and ample storage space, a Gregory pack can be a trusted companion whether you’re hopping between budget airlines or exploring urban landscapes.
The Border 35 model showcases what Gregory is all about—offering practical solutions for on-the-go lifestyles. It’s equipped with handy elements such as laptop compartments and water bottle pockets, ensuring that everything has its place.
Moreover, these bags are built to last using robust materials that stand up to the wear and tear of travel. So if you’re setting sights on new horizons or gearing up for your next trekking adventure, consider how a dependable bag like the Gregory Border 35 could enhance your experience.
Samsonite
Moving from Gregory’s rugged outdoor focus, Samsonite steps up as another top contender in the travel backpack scene. Known for their tough designs built to last, they offer backpacks like the NuRoad Backpack and Business Slim Backpack that meet the needs of travelers looking for reliable gear.
These packs come with features that appeal to everyone from business professionals to casual tourists. Think sturdy fabrics that withstand rough handling and smart compartments keeping all your items organized.
Samsonite also stands out because it provides a level of quality similar to luxury brand Tumi but often at more accessible prices. You’ll find options with anti-theft zippers and RFID-blocking pockets to protect your belongings, ensuring peace of mind while on the move.
As you pack for your next adventure or business trip, consider a Samsonite—the choice could make all the difference for comfort and convenience on the road ahead.
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands out as a top choice for global travelers. It’s built to last and designed with adventure in mind, making it ideal for anyone from weekend warriors to digital nomads.
The Allpa 35L is especially suited for those who crave organized compartments and easy access to their gear. Its tough materials can handle rough treatment, while the comfortable straps make carrying your load a breeze.
The Cotopaxi brand commits to creating quality backpacks that meet the needs of travel-savvy individuals. Their products boast durability and functionality, earning praise from users around the world.
With every Cotopaxi rucksack comes an assurance of support on your international journeys, offering peace of mind along with ample storage space and convenience features such as rain covers for sudden downpours.
Eagle Creek
Moving from the vibrant and colorful options of Cotopaxi, let’s explore Eagle Creek, a brand that stands tall in the travel gear world. Eagle Creek backpacks are built to withstand the rigors of international travel.
Their packs are known for being durable, lightweight, and crafted with quality materials. Travelers can trust these bags to hold up on trips across Europe, South America, or Southeast Asia.
Eagle Creek offers clever designs like their Packable Day Pack which is perfect for short excursions during a longer trip. The Global Companion model doubles as an excellent choice not just for jet-setting but also for school use due to its versatility.
With great emphasis on interior and exterior organization features, these backpacks keep belongings tidy and accessible—ideal when you’re constantly on the move.
The brand’s commitment shines through in every product they create, making them a favored pick among those needing reliable work-and-travel solutions. Choosing Eagle Creek means opting for adventure-ready bags that help organize your journey effortlessly while securing your essentials no matter where your travels take you.
Conclusion.
Finding the right travel backpack is a big choice. You want one that holds your things and lasts a long time. Remember, look at size, how it’s made, and if it’s comfy to carry. Brands like Cotopaxi and Osprey are great for trips all over the world.
Pick up your perfect backpack today and start your next adventure with confidence!
FAQs
1. What makes the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 different from other rucksacks?
The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 has special features that keep your things safe, like materials that are tough to cut and straps that lock. It is good for people who travel a lot.
2. Is the Aer Travel Pack 3 a good choice for travelers?
Yes, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is great for travelers because it’s made with strong materials called denier and has lots of pockets to organize your stuff easily.
3. What kind of material is Cuben Fiber, and which rucksack brands use it?
Cuben Fiber is a very light but strong material used in making high-end outdoor gear, like some tents and bags from top backpack brands.
4. Why do people talk about PALS webbing on rucksacks?
PALS webbing is a series of loops on the outside of some bags, where you can attach extra pouches or gear; it’s handy for hikers or soldiers who need to carry more things.
5. How does REI Co-op compare with international ruck sack brands?
REI Co-op makes quality bags with materials like yarn and canvas that are built to last during outdoor adventures just like many international brands do.