one strap backpack travel

15 Best Single-Strap Backpacks for Comfortable Hands-Free Travel

Looking for a one strap backing over a traditional two-strap backpack?

With a two-strap backpack you most likely have to take it off to get anything out of it. For savvy travelers, this poses a few different problems. Rifling through your backpack in the middle of the sidewalk can make you a target for pickpockets and draw unnecessary attention to yourself.

Single-strap or sling bag backpacks allow you to flip the bag around, grab what you need, and keep moving. Another thing I like about a good sling bag is that they come in a variety of different sizes.

You’ll be able to find one that fits only essential small items like your phone and wallet. You can also find ones that are bigger bags that can fit small laptops. To find the right single shoulder strap backpack for you, keep reading to learn more about the internet’s top picks.

My Top Picks for the Best One Strap Backpack

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Editor’s Choice: Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag

Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag | One Strap Backpack

This Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag provides a simple design, durable and high quality material, and great anti-theft features. The strap of this bag is slash-resistant and the interior credit card slots have RFID-blocking technology so you don’t have to worry about identity theft. This is one of the best sling backpacks for someone who has safety in mind.

What To Watch Out For

The price of this Travelon bag is a little higher than some of the others on this list, but you will get a great design, good quality, and peace of mind that your belongings are secure while traveling.

TurnWay Water-Proof Sling Backpack

A great budget option that also works well for men and women is this TurnWay Water-Proof Sling Backpack . The simple design will blend in and keep your bag off pickpockets’ radar and give you plenty of secure storage pockets. There are multiple zippered pockets within the bag, including a secure hidden pocket for valuables and travel documents, a water bottle pocket, and three large pockets for your bigger items. Another thing that I like about this bag is the breathable back panels to keep you cool while wearing it.

This isn’t the most stylish bag on the list, but it will definitely provide you with enough storage for anything you might need for day trips while you’re traveling.

Pacsafe Vibe Sling Bag

Another great option for the security-conscious traveler is this Pacsafe Vibe Sling Bag . Pacsafe has been featured in my post about travel-safe purses , so you know that you’ll be getting a bag that will keep your belongings safe. This Pacsafe sling bag comes with a slash-resistant fabric with a steel mesh inlay as well as lockable zippers on the main and front pockets.

While this bag does provide you with a lot of great safety features, the design of the bag is a bit narrow, so you won’t be able to fit things like a tablet or laptop in the main compartment. However, I consider this a minor trade-off for how many anti-theft features you get.

SEEU Sling Backpack

If you’re looking for a single strap backpack with a little more capacity than some others, try out this Seeu Oversized Sling Backpack . The large compartment of this backpack is both spacious and padded, so you can feel confident about storing your laptop or tablet in it. There are also three more zippered pockets and a side mesh pocket as your external water bottle holder, which is a great feature if you’re all about hydration like me.

While this bag does offer a lot of storage space, it may not be the best choice for day use when you don’t need to carry everything with you. I think this sling backpack would function much better as a travel day pack when you have more with you.

MOSISO Sling Backpack

This MOSISO Sling Backpack is another great option if you like your bags to have a bit more color and flair. They come in great floral designs and bright solid colors and make a great addition to any wardrobe. The inside of this single strap backpack offers a ton of functional storage space so you can easily access and organize everything that you need for your trip.

The shoulder strap also has a great range and can be adjusted to fit everyone so you can wear the bag over your shoulder or as a crossbody bag. This MOSISO bag also has side mesh pockets for your water bottle, although some reviews say that the pockets can stretch out and are a little bit weak.

RUSH MOAB Sling Bag

If you’re willing to splurge in order to get a great sling bag, this RUSH MOAB backpack is for you. The tactical design is unisex, so it’s not necessarily created with fashion in mind, but it does get the job done while being incredibly durable.

You’ll also get tons of interior and exterior storage pockets so everything can have a designated place in your bag. This is great if you love organization but will also require you to remember where you put everything.

Leaper Sling Bag

If you’re someone who takes aesthetics into consideration when you’re purchasing a new travel bag, check out this Leaper Sling Bag . This bag combines a cool vintage look with the practicality of a messenger back or modern backpack. The internal pockets offer a lot of storage, although the laptop sleeve is not padded, which could be problematic. It’s the perfect unisex packable backpack for your journeys.

Another thing that I like about this bag is that you don’t have to just wear it on your right or left shoulder. The strap allows you to switch it up, and it also offers a top handle if you need to give your shoulders a break.

KAVU Crossbody Backpack

This KAVU rope bag is another option for those who appreciate style and color. This water and stain-resistant bag is compact while offering space for everything you’ll need during the day. This sling pack also gives you the option to switch shoulders if you find you’re carrying a little too much weight. Some bags are designed to only be worn on the right or left shoulder, so this is a nice feature.

One thing that this bag doesn’t have is a designated space for your water bottle. However, if you pack the bag light enough, you could probably fit one inside the large main compartment. Just make sure it’s not going to leak on your other belongings!

OutdoorMaster Sling Bag Backpack

This OutdoorMaster Sling Bag Backpack is another great option if you’re looking for a bag that has room for your small laptop or iPad Mini. The main compartment has a laptop sleeve built in and there are two more inner pockets for keeping smaller items organized. Another travel-friendly feature of this bag that I love is the hidden anti-theft pocket. This bonus feature will fit a smaller wallet, credit cards, or cell phone and it sits close to your body for some added protection.

This backpack also comes in seven different colors so you can customize it a bit to fit your wardrobe. The body of the backpack is water resistant and the adjustable shoulder strap is well padded, however, the main compartment doesn’t offer much organization so you may still have to dig around a bit if you throw everything in there.

ZUK Sling Bag

Looks are great, but I love a bag that’s functional too. Luckily, this ZUK Sling Bag offers a great design and awesome anti-theft features for frequent travelers. The main compartment of this travel backpack is equipped with a combination lock so you can walk the streets of a new city with confidence. There are also side features and back zipper pockets for things that you need quick access to throughout the day.

The external pockets are on the smaller side, but overall, this ZUK Sling Bag is a great option, perhaps one of the best sling backpacks, not only for its handy anti-theft features and durable design but also for its price. This bag looks expensive but won’t break the bank.

Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling

For a smaller, more sporty shoulder bag, try out this Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling. This bag not only works great for travel but can be a great addition to your next hiking trip. It’s designed to be super comfortable and is made of breathable mesh material to prevent you from getting sweaty while you’re wearing it.

This Osprey bag is considerably smaller than some of the others on this list, which could be positive or negative depending on your needs. It will definitely fit all of the essentials that you’ll need during the day such as your wallet, phone, water bottle, and snacks, but won’t fit much else. If you think you’re going to need more storage space while you’re out and about, consider a larger shoulder bag.

NeatPack Sling Bag

Many bags on this list offer good storage space, but this NeatPack Sling Bag is extra travel-friendly because of its anti-theft pocket and RFID-blocking technology that comes built into the bag. This is a great feature if you like to keep your valuables even more secure. This bag is also a good option if you’re looking for something made with high-quality materials. The zippers are strong and the straps are durable so you won’t have to worry about replacing the bag anytime soon.

If keeping your day bag packed light isn’t your strong suit, I can foresee this backpack getting a little bulky due to its design. If you’re looking for something a bit more compact, check out some of the other backpacks on this list.

Waterfly Chest Sling Rucksack

For those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on a new backpack, this Waterfly Chest Sling Rucksack is the perfect choice for you. It’s very lightweight but is still large enough to carry all of your essentials, including your tablet or iPad. Overall, I think this is a great single strap backpack for everyday use, but the design is a little bit plain for my taste.

Another thing I like about this chest bag is that there are a lot of additional pockets within the bag to help keep everything organized. One of the benefits of a single strap bag is that they are more hands-free than traditional backpacks, but if you still have to dig around for your belongings, that kind of defeats the purpose.

MALEDEN Sling Bag

Perfect for those who prefer a sporty look, this MALEDEN Sling Bag provides a spacious Main internal compartment without sacrificing a compact design. This sling pack’s main compartment is big enough to fit an iPad Mini or other small tablet and features a water-resistant and scratch-proof exterior to help protect your belongings. In addition to the inner pocket, there are several exterior pockets to help keep everything organized and secure.

The only flaw that reviews revealed about this bag is that the adjustable strap is a bit short, but if you’re not very tall, you shouldn’t run across any issues with this outdoor and travel-friendly pack.

Nicgid Sling Bag

Fashionable bags are great, but if you’re traveling, you’re likely to add some wear and tear to your purses and backpacks. If you’re looking for a durable, well-made sling bag, try this Nicgid Sling . The material that the bag is made of is high-quality so it is rip and water-resistant. The design is compact while still providing small pockets on the outside to give you easy access to your essentials. The front zipper pockets are big enough to fit a passport, which could come in handy on travel days.

This Nicgid bag is very durable and comfortable to wear, but you won’t be able to switch shoulders due to its design. If you’re able to look past this, you’ll be getting a very practical backpack.

Still have some lingering questions about which single-strap backpack is right for you? Keep reading to have all of your questions answered so you can make the best choice for your next trip.

What is a sling backpack?

A sling backpack is another name for a single-strap backpack, which is described pretty well by its name. Unlike traditional backpacks, single-strap backpacks, or sling backpacks, only have one strap. This can be useful if you find yourself digging through your backpack frequently while traveling. With a sling backpack, you can simply turn the bag around on your body and retrieve what you need without taking it off.

Are sling backpacks comfortable?

Depending on the design, sling backpacks can be very comfortable. You’ll want to look for one with a padded strap for extra comfort. However, after a certain weight is reached, the single strap can start to put extra strain on your shoulders because the weight isn’t evenly distributed between two straps. You should keep in mind that single-strap backpacks are usually on the smaller side for a reason — they’re not meant to carry a lot of weight.

Are sling backpacks bad for your back?

One reason some travelers avoid single-strap backpacks is that it can seem like the weight you carry in your backpack will be unevenly distributed on your shoulders and therefore uncomfortable. If a sling bag is made well, it won’t be uncomfortable. However, if you’re planning on carrying a heavy load, a single-strap backpack may not be the best choice for you. Consider a two-strap backpack if your bag is going to be heavier.

We hope you found this blog post about finding a one strap backpack for your travels! Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!

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Best single strap backpack in 2023.

Backpacks , February 26, 2023

Gone are the days when wearing a backpack was automatically associated with an informal outfit. Times have changed and so did the uses and types of backpacks.

Nowadays, backpacks have become more of an accessory rather than a necessity and you can choose from a huge variety that can compliment even your most elegant outfit.

Single strap backpacks or sling bags, are smaller versions of messenger bags and were originally used by bike messengers and postmen. The reason behind that was that they needed to carry a relatively small amount of weight in a hands free manner for maximum mobility.

Smaller than traditional backpacks but larger than hand bags or fanny packs, sling backpacks are the perfect choice for city walks, one day trips, biking and different outdoor activities. The one strap design makes it easy to sling the bag from your back to front for accessibility, making it a great choice for those days when you feel like you’re always on the move.

Before choosing a sling backpack that works for you, it’s important to think about what you would like to prioritize: design, price, size or the practicality of it. Like traditional backpacks, some are more durable, smaller, larger and prioritize different features and knowing exactly what you are looking for will make the decision a lot easier.

Best Single Strap Backpacks

Maxpedition kodiak gearslinger.

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Although single strap backpacks are not built to carry high amounts of weight like traditional ones do, the Maxpedition Kodiak Gear Slinger seems to be the exception to the rule. The Kodiak should be your number one choice if you plan on hauling a lot of stuff in the smallest one strap bag possible.

This backpack is one of the most durable single bag on the market right now and is optimized to meet rugged and urban conditions, making it great for hiking trips.

The backpack is designed to maximize utility when rotated towards front of the body so you can easily access your gear while sitting, standing or moving throughout your day. The backpack fits up to a 15.4” laptop, comes in four colors and has a concealed carry pocket that keeps your wallet safe and reachable.

NeatPack Versatile Canvas Sling Bag

Versatile Canvas Sling Bag / Travel Backpack | Wear Over Shoulder or Crossbody (Gray)

If you’re looking for a sharp-looking, well made and elegant sling bag that doesn’t break the bank, you’ve found it.

The Versatile Canvas Bag it’s exactly that, versatile. It has plenty of compartments which helps you keep everything organized. Gadgets, books, water bottle, laptop and even your small items will have their own place.

It even has a small pocket with headphone cord access on the front strap which is perfect for keeping your cellphone or wallet.

It’s worth mentioning that the NeatPack backpacks come with 100% lifetime guarantee: all you have to do is register your new bag on their website.

Leaper Retro Messenger Bag

Leaper Canvas Messenger Bag Sling Bag Cross Body Bag Shoulder Bag Black, L

The Leaper Retro Messenger bag has that classy messenger bag look we’ve talked about earlier and it’s one of those backpacks that can complement even your most elegant outfit.

Made of soft and durable washed canvas, this bag is not a large backpack that can carry a lot of weight like the Kodiak, but it’s the perfect size for a day trip, college or for the office.

The backpack comes in a variety of colors and has a vintage look. It has multiple pockets so you can easily organize reach your items without making a fuss. This is a great choice for a daypack when all you need to carry is some light stuff, maybe a set of clothes or your iPad.

The backpack is not waterproof so we do not recommend to use it for demanding outdoor activities.

SEEU Plus Oversized Sling Backpack

Plus Oversized Sling Bag for Men Women, Extra Durable Rope Strap shoulder sling bag Chest Backpack...

Another great sling backpack that’s perfect for traveling or longer trips is the Plus Oversized Sling Backpack. Although this is not an oversized bag as its name suggests, it can carry more than just a tablet and a few books.

The bag has a 28L capacity and has tons of space to store everything you need for the day, and then a little more. The functional design makes it a perfect choice for traveling and customers reported great feedback. The bag fits easily beneath seats on the airplane and in bins of security checks and the over shoulder design does not get tiresome when carried for longer periods of time.

The backpack comes in four colors and at a very good price. We recommend it for longer trips, commuting and other daily activities.

OutdoorMaster Sling Bag

One of our favorite single strap backpack is the Sling Bag from OutdoorMaster.

Although very tiny and minimalist looking, this backpack somehow has room for all your essentials: camera, tablet, small laptop, whatever you need.

It’s made of lightweight, sturdy material, it’s waterproof and has reversible shoulder straps direction, which is a great feature that not all sling backpacks have. This means it’s the perfect pack for both lefties and righties and, as a leftie, I can assure you it’s a big plus.

The OutdoorMaster always have the outdoors in mind when designing their backpacks, so you don’t have to worry about the durability of their products.

KAVU Rope Sling Bag

KAVU Original Rope Sling Bag Polyester Crossbody Backpack - Spruce

Another small and minimalist looking sling backpack is the KAVU Rope Sling Bag. This backpack comes in one size and all the possible colors you can think of.

With only 3 pockets, this backpack has a very simple design and it’s the perfect choice for those who know exactly what they need to carry and don’t need room for anything extra.

The two vertical interior zip compartments are perfect for books, bottles or cameras, while the internal zipper is better suited for keys or smaller accessories.

The bag is made of 100% polyester and we recommend washing it by hand.

G4Free Outdoor Tactical Backpack

We consider the G4Free Outdoor Tactical Backpack the mini version of the first backpack on our list, the Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger.

With a similar design and also extremely durable, this backpack is perfect for hiking trips and outdoor activities. The backpack has multiple internal pockets and three external compartments, helping you keep everything organized.

This small tactical backpack is very popular because it can be used for a lot of outdoor and indoor activities, camping, hiking, hunting, school and much more.

Everest Sling Bag

Despite its pretentious name, the Everest Sling Bag is by no means suitable for hiking the Everest.

Like the previously mentioned small bag, KAVU Rope Sling Bag, this is a small single strap backpack perfect for those who know exactly what they need.

Incredibly comfortable to wear and available in a variety of colors, the Everest Sling Bag is the perfect choice for a day trip around Disneyland or your favorite park.

Red Rock Outdoor Gear

The Rover Sling Pack from the Red Rock Outdoor Gear is ready to rock your world. The brand is known for its quality outdoor products and its reasonable prices and it’s safe to assume that this is a backpack that will last for ages.

With a large master compartment and two external pouches for quick access to items, this sling pack is perfect for most outdoor activities you can think of. Another great feature is the ambidextrous strap which we already discussed and love it.

This model comes in different sizes so make sure to pick the right one for your needs.

MOSISO Sling Backpack

The last single strap backpack on our list is a more feminine one. The Mosiso Sling multipurpose backpack has a feminine and elegant touch to it and comes in a lot of colors and prints.

Made of durable, water repellent polyester and with breathable shaped padded shoulder straps, we recommend wearing it as a day pack for those days when you want a fancier look but still want to feel comfortable.

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Home » Gear » sling pack

12 Best Sling Packs of 2024 • (HONEST Rundown)

But it’s not just about my experiences. These sling packs have been vetted by fellow nomads, globetrotters, and adventure enthusiasts, all of whom demand the best from their gear. Whether you’re a city slicker in need of a sleek, urban-friendly accessory or a trailblazer looking for a rugged companion, this list has got you covered.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what’s needed. We’ve got the best sling bag for hiking, one for laptops and even a sling for festivals. Let’s dive right in and check out the best slingpacks on the market…

Quick Answer: Best Sling Packs 2024 Review

Nomatic Navigator Sling – Best Overall Sling Pack for Travel
WANDRD Detour Hip Pack – Best Packable Sling
Patagonia Atom Sling – Runner-Up Best Sling Pack
Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling – Best Sling Bag for Ladies
Mahi Classic Flight Bag – Best Leather Sling Bag
Red Rock Rover Sling – Best Sling Bag for Hiking
Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag – Best Sling Bag for Laptops
Kavu Rope Sling – Best Sling Bag for Music Festivals
Monarc Sling – Most Stylish Sling Pack
Think Tank Retrospective 30 – Best Camera Sling Bag
Inateck Sling Pack – Best Sling Pack For Airports

Performance Breakdowns and Top Tips

Review of the 12 best slings packs, how to choose the best sling bag for travel, how and where we tested to find the best sling pack, faq about the best sling pack, final thoughts on the best sling packs.

This epic review of the best sling packs of 2024 provides you with my top picks, a comparison table for easy cross-referencing, advice for first-time buyers, what I like and what I don’t about each sling pack, advantages of sling pack use and much more! Slings make great travel organisers , so choose one that fits your style!

Ready for some top-quality sling bag reviews, Of course you are.

Let’s take a look at my top picks for the best sling bags in 2024…

Nomatic Navigator Sling

> 1.3 pounds

WANDRD Detour Sling Pack

> 6.3 Liters

Patagonia Atom Sling

> 12 ounces

Pacsafe Vibe 325 ECONYL Sling

> 1 lb. 6.1 oz.
> 10 Liters

Mahi Leather Classic Flight Bag

Red Rock Rover Sling

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

> 1 lb. 15.4 oz.
> 21 Liters

Kavu Rope Sling

Think Tank Retrospective 30

#1. nomatic navigator sling, best overall sling bag for travel.

Price -> $129.99
Weight -> 1.3 lbs
Capacity -> 6 Liters
Number of Compartments -> Main compartment (with interior pockets) + 2 more pockets

What I like: This durable little beast does everything you’d want a sling pack to do. It aces interior organization while still keeping everything easily accessible and even has an array of nifty features perfect for a traveler on the move.

As well as its main compartment and dedicated back pocket for tablets, there’s a hidden bottle pocket that stows away when not in use. There’s an in-built key leash, card slots on the shoulder strap perfect for transit card access, and the interior cord management even allows you to charge devices between the pockets!

On the build side of things, the Nomatic Navigator Sling is hella sleek and sits comfortably across the torso and back. The breathable back panel stops the ugly back sweats, meanwhile, the strength and water resistance means this sling bag is even suitable for a day hike.

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This all-black sling pack will look good in any outfit you pick, however, just for that one extra sexy feature, Nomatic has gone ahead and thrown some reflective visibility bars into the design to keep you safe at night!

We also love it for other uses whilst on the road and we rate it as an awesome beach bag too.

What I don’t like: Mainly, the price. For Nomatic products, you’re always paying a premium, and when stacked up against the other sling bags on this list, the difference shows.

However, as with all things in life, you get what you pay for. And in this case, the extra dollaridoos certainly show their worth for the best sling pack on the market.

Our team loved this super heavy-duty sling bag because it just seemed to tick all the boxes as the perfect sling. Firstly the material of the bag is not only super durable but highly water resistant too giving the team confidence when storing important gear. Another stand-out feature is the internal organisation of the sling, something that made packing and unpacking really easy.

Wanna know more, of course, ya do! We’ve actually written an in-depth post about the Nomatic Navigator Sling for your viewing pleasure!

#2. WANDRD Detour Sling Pack

Best packable sling pack.

What I like : The WANDRD Detour is a PACKABLE sling which folds up into a neat, compact little square when you are not using it. It’s designed to carry DSLR cameras so offers pretty generous storage space. It has a simple, sleek and suave design which makes it great for everyday no-frills use. Use this pack as an airport bag, for hitting the beach or yeah, for carrying your camera.

What I don’t like: First up, if you are going to use this as a camera bag then note that it does not offer much protection in case of knocks and drops. You will therefore need to also invest in the WANDED inflatable camera cube. Personally, I dislike the polyester strap on this pack as it doesn’t feel great against the skin.

To round up this sling bag review we let our testers give it a go and they were really impressed. They just loved how small this sling packed down and loved that they could just throw it into their bag as an extra bit of storage or to use during the day without taking up hardly any room. They also loved how light it was.

#3. Patagonia Atom Sling

Runner-up best sling bag for travel.

Price -> $65.00
Weight -> 12 ounces
Capacity -> 8 Liters
Number of Compartments -> 2 Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: The Patagonia Atom Sling is the perfect sling bag to take traveling. Why? I like it because it is simple, durable, and can hold just enough stuff to keep the essentials close at hand. When you need to grab something from your pack, the single-strap design lets you rotate the Atom to the front for quick access.

If you are traveling with a Kindle or Ipad, the large, zippered main pocket has a dedicated, padded tablet sleeve inside for easy, safe storage.

A convenient stretch-mesh pocket on the chest/shoulder strap accommodates a wide variety of phone sizes. You can adjust the fit quickly and easily on the go. Adjustable exterior compression straps help to manage loads of various sizes.

Finally, the strong exterior fabric is finished with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to protect items from light rain. This is a great minimalist sling bag for travel as long as you are indeed a minimalist and not trying to pack heaps of stuff into it (you won’t be able to). Good job Patagonia!

What I don’t like: When the Patagonia Atom is super full, the balance can feel off. Your neck can end up taking a majority of the weight if you don’t have the back properly adjusted. For carrying heaps of stuff, 8 liters is not much to work with. Some users have complained that it is simply too small to be practical.

Our team loved all the different practical features of this sling including the external pockets and compression straps. They felt the shoulder strap was pretty well-padded and comfortable when properly adjusted and just loved the addition of the small pocket on the strap.

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#4. Pacsafe Vibe 325 ECONYL Sling Pack

Best sling bag for ladies.

Price -> $109.95
Weight -> 1 lb. 6.1 oz. ounces
Capacity -> 10 Liters
Number of Compartments -> 3 Exterior Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: The Pacsafe Anti-Theft sling is slightly smaller than the Patagonia Atom Sling listed above, though it still can basically hold the same amount of essential items. The Pacsafe sling is cool because it can be worn 2 different ways—as a sling or as a backpack. This sling pack is very safety conscious, which I like.

The N Lock security hooks which allow you to attach the bag strap to a secure fixture to avoid snatch-and-run theft. Hidden, stainless-steel eXomesh mesh slash guards protect against slash-and-run theft. Zipper pulls attach to discreet hooks, making them tougher for pickpockets to open.

A hidden pocket located on the backside of the bag keeps your most important small items closest to your body. A bonus is the RFID-blocking material located in a special pocket which helps prevent electronic identity theft. Whew!

The Pacsafe Anti-Theft Sling is my top pick for the best sling bag for women for all of the badass safety features listed above. You’ll stay one step ahead of any potential thieves while keeping your most important gear safe.

What I don’t like: Again, the Pacsafe Anti-Theft is quite small. You will have trouble trying to fit anything more than the bare essentials inside. Also, the Pacsafe sling is a little more expensive than some of the other options found in this review.

Our team liked the low profile of this sling especially as it can be worn more in the style of a handbag rather than looking like a traditional sling. The team felt it was a great backpacking option when they wanted something to take travelling that would still look great with a dress but keep their gear safe too.

#5 Mahi Leather Classic Flight Bag

Best leather sling.

Price -> $115
Weight -> 1.5 lbs.
Capacity -> 2 Liters
Number of Compartments -> 1

What I Like:

The bag is meticulously crafted with a 100% full-grain leather exterior, ensuring durability while sporting a sleek, sophisticated look. The interior is lined with 100% cotton, providing a soft, protective layer for your belongings.

Boasting a 2L capacity, the bag is compact yet spacious enough to hold your daily essentials. The dimensions are W19cm x H22cm x D4cm, providing a streamlined profile. The expandable shoulder strap, ranging from 78cm to 145cm, allows for a custom fit, ensuring the bag rests comfortably against your body.

What I Don’t Like:

Hmm, there really isn’t much to not love. It’s well-sized for an airport bag and fits phones, wallets and papers easily while looking stylish. I suppose it isn’t exactly cheap ($86 for a small bag..) but that’s leather I guess.

Also, I personally prefer a packable sling pack like the Nomatic Navigator.

#6. Red Rock Rover Sling

Best sling bag for hiking.

Price -> $39.99
Weight -> 3 lbs.
Capacity -> 9 Liters
Number of Compartments -> 3

What I Like: Technically, the Red Rock Rover Sling is a concealed carry sling. That means it was intended to stash a gun inside. That said, it is a tough, burly sling pack perfect for short hikes. Finding the best sling bag for hiking isn’t easy because sling packs are inherently not really intended for hiking. The Red Rock Sling is going to be the most comfortable and most practical sling bag for hiking you will find.

The three storage compartments are large enough to pack snacks, water, a light layer, and other essentials. I am a fan of the fact that the internal and external pockets contain admin dividers and organizers and it’s one of the big reasons I picked this as my best hiking sling bag.

For quick access to important items (i.e snacks), the two external compartments make it easy for you. The Red Rover Sling comes in a variety of colors, so don’t worry… you need not get a camouflage sling if that’s not your thing! For the price, you won’t find a better sling bag for hiking!

What I don’t like: As a 9-liter sling bag for hiking, I feel like the Rover sling is far heavier than it should be. There are 50-liter+ hiking backpacks that weigh less! It’s kind of weird too that this is a sling bag intended to hide guns and bullets. Can we all just get along?

Our team felt this was the best sling backpack for hiking because of the proper durable exterior and the ability to bring along heaps of extras with the addition of the accessory and gear loops. They also loved the different pockets on the front of the pack which made keeping things organised easy, they liked that they could throw in an energy bar and have quick access.

#7. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

Best sling bag for laptops.

Price -> $99.00
Weight -> 1 lb. 15.4 oz.
Capacity -> 21 Liters
Number of Compartments -> 3 + Main Compartment

What I like: For a full-size sling bag for laptops and everyday practicality, the Timbuk2 Classic is a badass sling pack. With 21-liters, you can carry everything you need for a day in the city.

The thoughtfully distributed internal pockets balance the weight of your carry, which is hugely important! The fully adjustable shoulder strap features a super comfortable air-mesh strap pad. Digital Nomads rejoice!

A low-profile handle makes the sling bag easy to grab and go. The SR buckles are partially concealed behind the flap for a sleek but secure closure. Crucially, the flap corners fold into place for excellent weatherproofing.

If you are a digital nomad/city dweller looking for the best sling bag for laptops around, look no further than the Timbuk2 Classic. It’s a hell of a sling pack!

What I don’t like: The closure straps are too long. They tend to rub on the legs which can result in chaffing and if nothing else, annoyance. Short of cutting the end off with a knife, there isn’t much to be done about that.

One major flaw is whilst the sling bag itself is rather padded, there is no individual padding for the laptop compartment. Several users of this bag have complained about poor customer service with Timbuk2. That’s an unfortunate reputation to cultivate, as Timbuk2 typically makes awesome products.

Our team just loved the epic volume of this sling and just how much it holds. They also loved the range of different colours and styles it came in, all of which look super cool. If you pick one of the more reserved colourways the team felt the sling was a great commuter pack for those needing to carry a laptop and a few notebooks with them on the daily.

Looking for more bags of this style, check out the best messenger bags on offer too.

#7. Kavu Rope Sling

Best sling bag for music festivals.

Price -> $50.00
Weight -> 12 ounces
Capacity -> N/A – My guess is between 6-8 Liters
Number of Compartments -> 4 Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: When headed to a heady music festival or party, having a low-key, functional sling bag is awesome for storing your stuff. The Kavu Rope Sling is the perfect sling pack to take to festivals! I appreciate that the design is simple, practical, and functional! There are basically two zip compartments and two small Velcro stash pockets (perfect for keeping your festival drugs safe lol).

What’s cool is that the Kavu Rope Sling is made of cotton canvas which means it can be washed. At a music festival or beach party, your bag ends up all over the place. Washing away dust, grit, and stale beer droplets is very important indeed!

The Kava Rope Sling also makes for a great sling bag for travel if you are not seeking to load it with stuff.

What I don’t like: The bag was intended to be worn on the right shoulder only. If you are right-handed, like I am, you’ll find that the Rope Sling takes some getting used to. Because the bag is made of cotton canvas, it is pretty much at the mercy of the weather. In heavy rain, your stuff will get soaked. Some users have found the shoulder straps to be uncomfortable.

Our team loved that this bag had a proper hippy vibe to it that just worked perfectly for a music festival. Besides its looks, they were super impressed by the extra features on the bag so often missed out on these bohemian numbers. That included the different external pockets, one of which was on the strap, these were great for quick grab items like mints, smokes or loose coins.

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#8. Think Tank Retrospective 30

Best camera sling bag.

Price -> $194.75
Weight -> 3.2 lbs
Capacity -> 15” W x 9.5” H x 6” D (38 x 24 x 15.2 cm)
Number of Compartments -> 4 + Main Compartment

What I like: For the best camera sling bag, the Think Tank Retrospective 30 has you covered. If you are a backpacker traveling with a fancy DSLR camera, you’re going to need adequate protection to comfortably transport your kit. The Retrospective 30 sling pack provides that and more. It is absolutely loaded with storage and organizational features, which is a big win.

For photographers who need a little extra space in their camera bag, the spacious Think Tank Retrospective 30 is the way to go. At 3.2 pounds, the Think Tank Retrospective is quite heavy though relatively light enough to carry over your shoulder. The internal dimensions – 15 x 6 x 9.5″ – are large enough to accommodate a larger camera system, like a Fuji X-Series.

The addition of several pockets ensures that you’ll have enough room for all of your extra accessories as well. Other features, like an included rain cover and silenceable velcro, only add to the usefulness of this camera sling bag.

What I don’t like: I am amazed that the main compartment doesn’t zip! Bummer. The Retrospective 30 is definitely bordering on being too heavy to be a comfortable and practical camera sling bag. For nearly $200, this is the most expensive sling pack on my list. That said, if you own a nice camera, then you are probably used to spending heaps of money on your badass camera gear!

Our team liked the pretty low-key look of this bag and felt it was ideal for when they were carrying around some pretty expensive gear without drawing attention. They loved the amount of space for all their gear in this sling and the fact they could easily access their camera from the top of the pack. Another thing they really appreciated was the organisational pockets on the front which were great for storing filters, memory cards and notebooks.

For even more camera bag ideas, check out our in-depth review of the best camera bags .

You’ve seen my top picks for the best sling bags for travel and other activities above. Here are a few more sling packs which are equally as awesome…

#9. Waterfly Sling Pack

Honorable mention.

Price -> $19.99
Weight -> N/A
Number of Compartments -> 1 + Main Compartment

What I like: For the price, the Waterfly Sling Pack is hard to beat. An investment in one of these sling packs is next to nothing! The Waterfly is marketed as a waterproof sling bag, though I think it is more water resistant. Either way, it does indeed offer decent weather protection.

Its 10-liter inner compartment is perfect for day hikes and urban exploration. The breathable strap is comfortable even after wearing the bag for long periods.

What I don’t like: I have questions about the Waterfly’s long-term durability. But for 20 bucks, you can’t expect the sling pack to last forever I guess. It is kind of annoying how this company claims the Waterfly is both waterproof and water resistant. It is one or the other, it can’t be both! Come on!

Our team loved the low profile of this sling and combined with how cheap it is, they felt it was a great accompaniment for short trips, backpacking and casual days out. They loved that it could be thrown over your shoulder and carried just enough to keep things light and free for the day with no fuss.

#10. Monarc Sling

Most sylish sling pack.

Price -> $99.99
Weight -> N/A
Capacity -> 20 Liters
Number of Compartments -> 1 main compartment

What I like: The Monarc Sling Bag is a reasonably sized bag for everyday carry. At 10L, it is designed with convenience in mind, suitable for the daily commute to the office or for carrying personal items when traveling by plane. With water-resistant zippers and fabric, you won’t have to worry about the weather; your stuff will always stay dry.

I’ve had a very positive experience with the Monarc Sling Bag. It fits my 15″ laptop perfectly and makes a great bag for my daily commutes to coworking spaces. I love the design and the multiple ways I am able to wear it on my back. With all the compartments, I find my stuff quickly. This bag has quickly become my go-to everyday bag.

What I don’t like : The only downside, in my opinion, was the lack of a user manual on the bag tag. I wish the tag had a clear description of all the functionalities. When I first received the bag, it took me an hour or so to look online and figure out all the functions. Other than that, I really appreciate all the compartments the bag includes. It is really easy to stay organised and it’s become one of my favourite bits of travel gear .

#11. Pacsafe Vibe 325 Crossbody Sling

Price -> $69.95
Weight -> 1 lb. 3.8 oz.
Capacity -> 1o Liters

What I like: Pacsafe has arrived on my best sling bags list again. This time it is for the Pacsafe Vibe 325. As another very safety-conscious sling pack, the Vibe 325 is loaded with cool security features even if it is a minimalist sling pack.

The roobar AT locking system allows you to secure your zippers and helps prevent pickpocket theft. Furthermore, the RFID-safe blocking material built into a pocket in the main compartment helps protect IDs and credit cards from electronic scanning theft. It sucks a big one that we have to worry about this kind of thing nowadays, but it is the reality.

Finally, the hidden eXomesh Slashguard stainless-steel wire mesh embedded into the fabric helps protect against slash-and-run theft. Thieves won’t stand a chance. Bam.

What I don’t like: The Pacsafe 325 does run a bit small so don’t expect to pack anything other than the basic/important essentials. Some users have reported discomfort with the straps and the feel of carrying the pack.

Our team are generally big fans of Pacsafe bags and really love the added security they feel carrying around their valuables inside this sling. They did confirm to us that it felt a little on the small side but they felt it worked perfectly as an accompaniment to their bigger bag for things like their passport, wallet and phone.

#12. Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L

Price -> $119.95
Weight ->1 lb. 10 oz.
Capacity -> 6 Liters

What I like: For another one of the best camera sling bags, I recommend getting to know the Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L. This camera sling bag is indeed small, and minimalist and can only fit one DSLR camera. But, that’s all you need right?

It features easy clamshell access to the main camera-carrying compartment and a front accessory organization pocket. The secondary chest strap provides additional security for when you are traveling in cities.

I have to give the Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L big points for its weather-conscious design. The outer fabric is 400-denier shell fabric to help keep your gear dry when the rain clouds roll in, there is no need to panic. It also features a weatherproof zipper.

What I don’t like: For a 6-liter camera sling pack, I find the price ($119.95) to be expensive. For the price, I’d like to see a slightly larger sling bag with more features. If you are traveling with multiple lenses, then this pack is not for you.

Our team were really impressed by this camera sling and felt it was a great alternative to a bulking camera bag. They loved that it included proper camera dividers and it could be swung around for quick access to their gear. The additional transparent pockets on the inner pocket were also great for photographers needing to quickly grab extra batteries or memory cards.

#13. Inateck Sling Pack

Best for air travel.

Price -> $27.95
Capacity -> 4 Liters
Number of Compartments -> 1 Main Compartment

The Inateck Sling Bag is a stylish and functional accessory designed for everyday carry, travel, and outdoor activities. It boasts a compact yet spacious design, measuring 34 x 15 x 8 cm (13.8 x 5.9 x 3.1 inches) with a 4L capacity, making it suitable for carrying essentials such as phones, a Nintendo Switch, or an iPad Mini. The bag is constructed with 900D polyester, featuring YKK zippers and a Duraflex buckle, ensuring durability, water resistance, and a weight of only 0.8 pounds. Its adjustable shoulder strap ranges from 29″ to 48″ in length, accommodating various body sizes and carrying preferences.

The bag features a unique design with angled cuts and a futuristic look, maintaining a low profile while offering an expandable compartment for larger items like water bottles or umbrellas. This compartment includes elastic webbing to secure items in place. Internally, the bag offers an impressive organization system, including a main compartment with pockets for electronics and smaller items, an iPad Mini-sized pocket, elastic bands for pens or cables, and a secure back pocket with card slots for valuables.

Complete Comparison Table

Now, you could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Now that you have seen my top picks for the best sling packs on the market, there are a few other factors to consider before buying a sling pack.

Every person has different tastes, needs, and expectations for any given sling pack. First, you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions:

What purpose do I want a sling pack to serve?
How much do I want to spend on a sling bag?
What will I be using my slick pack for the most?

After you sort out some of these important questions, you can then base your final decision on whichever sling pack will be the best fit for your own personal travel style.

The best thing about a sling bag? They are almost always Ryanair carry-on bag compatible too!

Finding the Best Sling Bag Size

Finding the best sling bag size for yourself is pretty easy really as most of your options are not wide-ranging in terms of size. The biggest sling pack on my list is the Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag . At 21 liters, this sling bag is great for storing more than just the basics.

In most cases though, you have just 8 liters or so to work with. You must have realistic expectations regarding your sling pack! They are minimalist backpacks intended to contain small, useful items that you intend to keep close to your person.

I love sling packs for festivals, beach days, and city trips, and as a carry-on bag. They are NOT really best for hiking or as a primary daypack. If you expect to load your sling pack with plenty of shit, then you might want to reconsider getting one, or at least go with the biggest sling pack out there if that’s what you need.

As I said, sling packs and minimalism go hand in hand. You’ll find that traveling with a sling pack is awesome because you are not burdened with a heavy, bulky backpack. All of your items are easy to access, and most of all safe from external threats.

Which Sling Packs Have the Best Features?

Just like every individual backpacker, each sling pack on this list has its own character and personality. Are you a fan of pockets, zippers, and compartments galore? Do you prefer a few pockets and a well-organized main compartment? You’ll need to ask these questions!

The point is, once you determine your personal organizational needs, you should target that kind of sling pack.

I personally find it handy to have a few zip pockets on the exterior. Once you start having 5 or 6 different pocks plus the main compartment, you might find that to be excessive. Even in a small sling pack, you can lose track of where the hell you put stuff!

I like a good balance of simplicity, practical, versatile, and reliable. Above all else, the best sling bag is the most functional sling bag for your own needs.

Having a spot to put your most important items is the goal. That is why I am a big fan of the Patagonia Atom Sling . It is simple, compact, and very functional, which is all I ask when considering which packs are indeed the best sling bags.

A man standing by a wall with street art wearing a sling.

To test these sling packs we sent different members of our team out with each one for a proper test run over a decent period of time.

Packability

A sling pack might be smaller than a backpack but it still needs to be able to pack a decent amount of stuff. So we awarded top points for how packable each one was and how well it optimised the space provided. Extra points were also awarded for how well each pack facilitates effective packing and we tested this out by packing and unpacking. Simple!

Another point we paid particular attention to was how well each was also to unpack. Did the design make it easy to get at your gear or do you turn into Mary Poppins when you need to grab something on the go!?

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

Slings by their nature are usually pretty light and low profile. At the same time being carried on one shoulder means comfort and weight are of optimal importance when it comes to picking the right one.

No one wants their sling digging into their shoulder all day, so those that maximised carry comfort whilst minimising weight were awarded full marks.

Functionality

One of the most important factors, when we were reviewing these packs, was functionality. In other words, how does each sling fulfilled its primary purpose… so in order to test them out when used them for exactly that!

So let’s say a sling is for photographers, then we checked out how well it handled a camera and how well it facilitated photography on the go. If it was for carrying valuables, then we check out how safe the sling felt. You get the gist right!?

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well, those people are fools obviously not TBB testers because here we don’t do things by halves! Nah! Here we expect our gear to not only perform well but to do it whilst looking good too… a bit like us!

Durability and Weatherproofing

If you’re putting expensive gear into your sling, then you want it to be safe from the weather. You also don’t want to be investing in some tat that’s going to be falling apart after a few weeks. So we took built quality and weatherproofing seriously. We inspected the materials used, checked out how the zippers felt in use and had a good look at the pressure points most likely to break.

Next, we gave the weatherproofing a good old test by pouring a pint of water over the slings to see how well they fared!

Still have some questions about the best sling packs? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is a sling pack?

A sling pack is like a mini backpack that is secured across the shoulders and chest with only one strap, just like a sling bag. It sits tight around the body and is a go-to for loads of travellers.

Which sling bag is best?

We absolutely love the Nomatic Navigator Sling . It’s stylish, extremely durable and comfortable to carry thanks to the padded shoulder strap.

Are sling bags bad for your back?

No, sling bags are not bad for your back, unless you’re carrying around tons of weight with it. But since the bags are normally small, the weight has no effect on the body.

How much capacity do sling bags normally have?

Sling bags are relatively small and range from 6-15 liters on average. Some bags have multiple compartments.

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best sling pack. An open sling with a camera inside.

Congratulations, you have made it to the end of my best sling packs review! Well by now you are well of aware of the benefits of choosing an awesome sling bag for travel.

In the end, sling packs are great travel companions. They are compact, minimalist, and very handy little units to take on any backpacking adventure in addition to being extremely practical for everyday use.

Now that you know what to look for when it comes to picking the best sling bag for travel, you are now ready to make the informed choice of which one to go with.

I know that choosing the perfect sling pack can be a challenge, so I am glad you took the initiative to read this epic review!

If you are still having doubts about which sling pack is best, I recommend going for the Patagonia Atom Sling ; my top pick for the overall best sling bag of the year.

Did you enjoy reading this best sling bags review? Let me know how I did in the comments. Happy travels amigos.

Aiden Freeborn

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The best thing about a “concealed carry” is the ability to store seldom needed personal documents separate and protected from daily wear and tear. I don’t need it for its intended use, but still something I look for.

Worth article! I really like your post. Thanks so much for sharing!

5.11 is actually my first sling style backpack. I am left handed and it was easy to convert to a left handed sling. I have carried this bag everywhere for multiple months now and it is still holding up great. It doesn’t hold a ton of stuff inside, but it is perfectly suited for daily general use. The quality is great, with superior stitching forming around the bag, and holding it together tightly.

How can your “Best Sling for Hiking” not have a holder for a water bottle? Actually I don’t think any of them did.

Hey Michael! Yeah, no water bottle holders here. Sling packs are really just for toting in a camera or some snacks. The diagonal design doesn’t allow for a secure exterior pocket. You’ll have to have a hand for your waterbottle if you’re only packing with a sling. Your lightweight, bottle-toting alternative is a fanny pack.

The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel in 2024 [Men & Women]

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The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel in 2024 [Men & Women]

The benefits of a sling backpack, things to consider with sling backpacks, the 14 best sling backpacks for travel, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Sling backpacks are well-suited for trendy travelers, surf dudes, sun worshipers, and mountain climbers alike. Slinging your stuff over your shoulder has never been easier, and there are plenty of crossbody bags out there for you to choose from.

Though a sling backpack will dramatically reduce the amount of useable storage space available compared to a standard backpack, it will still offer you a sleek, chic, and useful way to carry your belongings .

Sling packs allow you to keep your hands free and give you the option to wear it either across your body or close to your chest. You can adjust the shoulder strap to find your perfect setting, and padded and breathable back panels will prevent you from getting hot and sweaty.

These types of bags also offer super fast access to your belongings , and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long journeys and daily adventures. Some are even large enough to carry your laptop and other items with you, while others are only suitable for essentials.

Hot Tip: Sling backpacks are particularly useful as camera bags since they make it so quick and easy to access your camera. However, if you’d prefer to travel with a specific bag for your camera, here’s a great guide on the best travel camera bags .

Every sling-style backpack is different from the next. Available in a wide range of colors, styles, and sizes, the right sling is as stylish and practical as you are. Consider the following before making your decision:

Size and Capacity

Sling backpacks are more compact than a big backpack and have a much slimmer silhouette. With anywhere from 5- to 30-liter capacity options, the average sling backpack can hold around 8 to 10 liters of your most personal belongings on the move.

Part of the beauty of a sling is its streamlined look and sleek shape. The downside of the sling is that it will never hold as much as a regular backpack — so you shouldn’t expect it to. Designed to be much more minimalist, your sling backpack is there to carry essential items like your cash, coins, wallet , phone, noise-canceling headphones , and sometimes an e-reader or tablet.

Material and Durability

Sling bags need to look great and be built to last. For durability, choose a bag that is made from a strong, hard-wearing material such as canvas or heavy cotton.

If you are planning on heading out into unpredictable weather or considering a water-based adventure, you may want to look at nylon or PVC bags to help protect against water damage.

Bottom Line: Because of the way you wear the bag, the fabric will need to be smooth enough not to chafe and breathable enough to prevent sweat patches from forming on your upper body.

The key to comfort when wearing your sling backpack is to keep it light. Carry just a few of your most essential belongings, and you’ll have a load far lighter than over-stuffed backpacks.

But pack too much, and you will soon know about it! Unlike traditional backpacks , with a sling, the weight is not evenly distributed across both shoulders. This can lead to a sore shoulder on 1 side of your body if the load is too heavy.

Sling backpacks are designed to offer flexibility when wearing, but this means you lose some of the additional stability and support features that traditional backpacks offer. Waist belts, sternum straps, and other load-relieving elements are not present on a sling backpack.

1. A Bargain Backpack Perfect for Everyday Use

BEST OVERALL: WATERFLY Chest Sling Rucksack

Waterfly Chest Sling Backpack

With a sleek and straightforward design, this ultra-lightweight sling backpack looks great and will handle all your daily commuting or vacationing essentials. Made from soft, water-resistant nylon, this sling has a 7-liter capacity and plenty of extra pockets.

The main compartment is large enough to comfortably transport your iPad or a magazine, while the extra key rack, card pouch, wallet pouch, notebook pouch, and 2 pen pouches will keep all your gear safe and organized on the move. For super-easy hydration on packed trains, long walks, or anywhere else, the side mesh pockets will keep your water bottle close at hand.

Your shoulder strap can be adjusted to fit any size or shape and can be moved from 23.6 inches to 43.3 inches. On the strap itself, there is a useful little pouch that will keep your phone safe and accessible.

All in all, this is a nice little sling backpack that you can take anywhere.

What We Like

Handy pouch on the sling strap for quick access to items

What We Don’t Like

Water bottle holder is a bit small

2. Big-brand Quality for a Compact Carry Bag

UPGRADE PICK: Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling

Osprey Packs Daylite Shoulder Sling

Made by one of the world’s most reputable luggage brands , the Daylite Sling from Osprey is perfect for your daily commute, days out, or a trip to the beach. Small enough to be easy to carry, yet roomy enough to hold everything you need, this is an outstanding quality sling pack.

This pack is made from high-quality, ripstop nylon and features Osprey’s soft and breathable NeoSpacer mesh material on the shoulder strap for superior comfort. The Daylite promises to be water-resistant and extremely comfortable to carry, including a key clip and front zippered mesh pocket for storing smaller items.

The Daylite comes in a choice of 4 funky colors, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a good quality sling backpack from a leading luggage brand.

Padded and breathable sling strap
Designed to be worn on the right shoulder only

3. Retro Looks and Modern-day Convenience

Leaper Retro Sling Bag

Made from soft and washable canvas with accents of elegant-looking PU leather, this messenger sling bag has a retro look that’s perfect for festivals, vacations, and those who like to stand out from the crowd.

Big enough to comfortably hold a slim laptop up to 13 inches, this may not be the largest bag on the market, but it is still a funky, practical alternative to a traditional backpack or tote . It also has additional straps so you can carry this bag by either the handle or the adjustable shoulder strap.

There is plenty of space in this medium-sized slingback: you get a zipper pocket in the front flap, 2 side pockets, and a main compartment with further inner pockets. You’ll find enough room to keep your laptop , iPhone, wallet, snacks, drinks, and other essentials all in 1 place.

Available in a variety of colors, this retro sling backpack is an excellent choice.

Sling strap is adjustable
Laptop pocket is not padded

4. Get Festival-ready With a Rope Bag

NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag and Urban Travel Backpack

With a ton of compartments to stow your stuff, this sling backpack also comes with an RFID-blocking anti-theft pocket for your most vulnerable valuables. Made of water-resistant polyester canvas and constructed using top-quality zippers and durable straps, this budget backpack offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Ergonomically designed for comfort, the NeatPack bag can be slung over either your shoulder or worn across your chest to keep it safe from thieves. With a convenient front cell phone pocket and separate headphone access, you can easily get to everything you need while on the go. The padded, breathable strap helps keep the bag comfortable and lightweight wherever you are.

Available in a choice of colors, this little bag would work well for school, travel, or even your daily commute. The sling design allows you to keep your hands free to cycle, walk, or run to your next destination.

Spacious main compartment and lots of pockets
Zippers can break easily

Hot Tip: For more options, check out these anti-theft travel backpacks .

6. Military Styling for Modern-day Ops of All Kinds

5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag Shoulder Pack

Get your gear in order with this fully customizable tactical bag made from water-resistant and incredibly lightweight 1050D nylon. The fully-cushioned adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to find your customized fit, and the grenade design makes this a must for anyone with a penchant for military styling.

With a coms pocket at the shoulder, a covert tactical pocket at the rear, and a secondary double zip pocket, this sling pack offers plenty of organized storage areas . An interior stash pocket paired with a hydration pocket and a pass-through port make it easy to stay hydrated , too.

Equipped with the patented 5.11 Tier System to integrate with other 5.11 RUSH tactical bags, plus YKK self-healing zippers and a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, this is a superb backpack perfect for any adventure.

Has a hydration pocket and a pass-through port
Can chafe your neck if packed heavy

7. A Stylish, Tablet-Friendly Urban Sling Bag

Solo New York Ludlow Universal Tablet Sling Bag

Padded compartment protects tablets up to 12.9″” and laptops up to 12″
Front zippered pocket
Front zip-down organizer section
Adjustable shoulder strap

A break from the usual sack-shaped sling bags, the Solo New York Ludlow is designed specifically with tablet and smaller laptops in mind, holding up to 12.9-inch tablets and up to 12-inch laptops in a padded compartment.

The bag also comes with a front zippered pocket and has a front zip-down organizer area. An adjustable shoulder strap ensures it stays safe and where it needs to be as you go about town.

Specifically designed for tablets and smaller laptops
The square, loose-fit design really makes it more of a shoulder bag

8. Bright, Bold, and Beautiful: Funky Sling Bags Suitable for All Occasions

MOSISO Sling Backpack

Choose from pretty florals or bright solid colors with these youthful sling backpacks that would be great for students, adventurers, and commuters alike. Big enough to carry an iPad Air or a smaller tablet in the large main compartment , this bag looks and feels much more expensive than it actually is.

With a ton of multi-functional storage areas, you can fill up the accessory compartment and pockets with your charging cables, power cords, books, papers, personal items, and snacks, while the mesh bottle holder will keep your liquid refreshment safe.

The shoulder strap can be adjusted to reach between 18 and 36 inches, and you can carry this bag on either shoulder as well as across your chest.

Padded and breathable straps help ease discomfort and eliminate excess moisture, while the water-repellent polyester will keep wet weather at bay. This is a nice-looking sling bag that won’t break the bank.

Stylish floral designs
Mesh external pocket is a bit weak

9. A Rugged, Water-resistant Sling Backpack

Nicgid Sling Bag Chest Shoulder Backpack

Made from high-quality nylon that resists water and rips, this is a compact carry bag that can be worn across your shoulder to keep your hands free and your load light. This design is perfect for days out, trips abroad, and even on your regular commute .

With multiple storage areas, the large main compartment holds your iPad Mini, e-reader, or notebooks, while the inner pouch will keep your cell phone safe. The front of the bag has 4 zippered pockets that are super convenient for accessing items you need on the go. Your keys, passports, pens, and money will all be within easy reach.

The shoulder strap is padded and can be adjusted, and this bag is available in a variety of colors. We think this pack is sleek and practical.

Durable and comfortable to wear
Strap is not reversible to wear on both shoulders

10. Super-secure With Integrated Combination Lock

Anti Theft Sling Bag Shoulder Crossbody Backpack

With great-looking, water-resistant oxford fabric, this is a minimalist shoulder bag that is sleek on the outside and spacious on the inside.

In the large main compartment, you can easily carry your iPad, notebooks, documents, wallet, money, cell phone, and other everyday essentials. The 2-way zipper gives easy access to the main compartment, and the built-in USB port allows you to charge easily on the go.

The side and back zip pockets are perfect for keeping your important items within easy reach, and you can rest assured knowing your valuables are safe in the combination locked main compartment. With an adjustable satchel strap, you can let this bag swing as high or as low as you want, and it can be worn on either shoulder.

Breathable, comfortable, and incredibly lightweight, this is a great little sling backpack for any adventure.

Combination lock on the main compartment
External pockets are a little small

11. Locking Zippers and Slash-resistant Fabrics

Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag

With locking compartments and durable construction, this bag is an excellent choice for anyone embarking on extreme adventures . The slash-resistant sling strap can be attached to a post or a chair, and the RFID-blocking card slots will protect you from identity fraud.

Designed with security in mind, this bag also features a stainless-steel mesh lining that prevents would-be criminals from slashing or ripping your pack to get at your valuables. There are also locking compartments to keep your personal belongings safe on the move.

Look great and keep your stuff safe as you travel with one of the most protective sling backpacks on the market. A good buy for anyone heading out into crowds.

RFID-blocking pockets
Main compartment zipper is not easily accessible when bag is worn on 1 shoulder

12. Large Enough To Cope, Yet Light Enough To Carry

Kawei Knight Large Sling Bag

Bigger is definitely better when it comes to this oversized sling backpack that has enough room for all your essentials (and then some). Made of water-resistant and nylon, this bag can carry everything you need for work or weekend getaways , including a 15-inch laptop, but its triangular design and minimal weight should ensure it doesn’t become too bulky.

The interior includes several pockets, a main compartment with laptop sleeve, and a secure zippered pouch. Its flap has its own compartment, and there are 2 side pockets.

Enough space for most things you’d need for a day
Not stylish, and could actually be too big for those looking to keep it light

13. Vintage Cool for the Man About Town

Mens Vintage PU Leather Sling Bag

Made from premium leather, this is a stylish sling bag with a timeless feel. With waterproof properties and an ergonomic design , it is as comfortable to wear as it is good-looking. And this bag has a hidden secret: its very own charging port for topping up your cell phone battery using your power bank .

Spacious enough to hold your laptop, iPad, tablet, phone, books, and much more, this bag will keep your gear safe and organized. Multiple pockets add extra hiding holes for smaller items, and the main compartment opens wide for easy access.

Fashionable and spacious, this leather bag is perfect for serious travelers and daily commuters alike.

Has an external USB port and a headphone jack
Sling strap could be longer

14. Security Conscious Sling Bag With Locking Zippers

Pacsafe Vibe 325 10 Liter Anti Theft Sling Bag

Brought to you by the travel experts at Pacsafe, this little sling bag is built to last. Offering enough space to keep all your essentials close at hand yet light enough to wear for hours at a time, this is one of the best sling backpacks your money can buy — but it does come at a price.

Made from high-quality nylon with a wipeable polyester lining, the Pacsafe Vibe offers incredible protection against would-be thieves. Individual compartments can be secured with locking zippers, while the fabric of the bag is cut-resistant and features a lightweight steel mesh inlay to keep your gear safe.

The shoulder strap is padded for comfort and reinforced with wire to prevent it from being slashed or cut in crowded places. The strap can also be used to securely fix your bag to tables or chairs to keep your possessions safe from theft.

Sizable, attractive, and one of the most protective bags on the market, this is an excellent choice for anyone traveling overseas.

Sling strap is reinforced with wire to be slash-proof
Quite a narrow bag, so not good for bulky items

Sling backpacks are a great alternative to traditional backpacks when you don’t need to carry too much stuff with you. Filling the void somewhere between fashion and practicality, you can carry them on either shoulder to keep your most valued possessions within easy reach at all times.

Cheaper, lighter, and smaller than a regular daypack , a sling bag will have its limitations. But if you want to remain hands-free and can travel a bit lighter, these are a good option for all types of adventures.

If you’re looking for a little more room and deciding on the best travel backpack, check out this great article on the best travel backpacks for men and women .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sling backpacks bad for your back.

As sling backpacks cause 1-sided strain, they can cause back pain if they are too heavy. Sling backpacks should only be used for lightweight essentials and are not designed for carrying heavy loads for long periods. You will be better off with a backpack for these occasions.

What is a sling backpack?

A sling backpack is quite similar to a regular backpack but the major difference is that it only has 1 strap and it is worn crossbody. A lot of sling backpacks tend to be triangular in shape or slimmer. Given they are worn on 1 shoulder only, they also have smaller capacities to avoid shoulder pain.

Are sling backpacks good for hiking?

We wouldn’t recommend a sling backpack for hiking as they don’t provide the same back support and features regular hiking backpacks would. Sling bags are best left for short urban adventures or when you need quick access to your belongings. Stick to regular backpacks for hiking.

What is the best sling bag?

These are some of the best sling bags that we recommend:

KAVU Rope Bag

Are sling bags good for travel?

Sling bags offer superfast access to your belongings, and the lightweight design makes them easy to carry on long journeys and daily adventures. Some are even large enough to carry your laptop and other items with you, while others are only suitable for essentials.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The 13 Best Travel Toiletry Bags for Men & Women [2024]

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

A graphic comparing the difference in capacity between a 45-liter and a 35-liter backpack.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

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The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

The packed Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack, shown fully open so that the contents are accessible.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

The Osprey Farpoint/ Fairview 40 Travel Pack, one of our also-great picks for the best carry-on travel backpack, shown in black.

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

View of the straps on the reverse of the Osprey travel backpack.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L, our also-great pick for the best carry-on travel backpack.

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

The Tortuga Backpack Pro shown with the front clamshell lid in the open position.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon. In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

A graphic illustrating a clamshell bag opening

Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

The Best Travel Backpack

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For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

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A person in an outdoor environment wearing one of our picks for best buy it for life backpack with a minimalist look, the GoRuck GR1.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

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The Best Laptop Backpacks

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A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

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Best Sling Backpacks: One Strap Backpacks for Commuting & School

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS150 Anti-Theft Sling Backpack

Looking for the best sling backpack for travel and day-to-day use?

On top of having a quality travel backpack for when you're moving around, sling travel backpacks are a great option for a daypack or anytime you are in need of a small, easy to access bag.

I've used various sling backpacks during my travels, ranging from waterproof camera sling bags like the Lowepro Slingshot Edge to travel oriented bags like the Pacsafe Metrosafe sling travel bag.

There is no doubt I still prefer my Osprey daypack for certain activities, especially when I'm hiking and heading out on other outdoor adventures.

However, when just wandering around cities or general travel use sling backpacks are hard to beat. They are incredibly easy to access, small and comfortable for carrying. Plus, they tend not to scream tourist like a backpack does.

Best Sling Backpacks

Why get a sling backpack vs backpack.

One strap backpacks, or sling bags, have huge benefits for anyone looking for an easy access bag. Designed to quickly slip over one shoulder, they can be swung around and hung in front where you can open up the compartments.

This means you don't have to remove the bag when you just want quick access to your gear. It's also useful in crowded spaces since you need much less room to bring your bag around to the front.

They are a simple option for a travel daypack and afford you to easily store and access whatever you are storing in your bag. Plus, many travel sling bags offer secure storage options for keeping your valuables (credit cards, passports, etc) safe while out.

Depending on how you plan to use your sling backpack, some models may suit your needs better than others.

Some models focus on carrying DSLR cameras, others have dedicated laptop sleeves, some are water resistant, and their carrying capacity varies. You'll want to compare all these factors when choosing the best sling backpack for your needs.

If you want a quick recommendation, take a look at the Pacsafe Metrosafe . This bag is specifically designed with the avid traveler in mind and provides tons of features to keep your gear safe, yet easy to access.

Best Sling Backpack Reviews

There are a lot of great sling backpack options out there. You'll find many brands that produce bags with a wide array design features, so you're sure to find one that fits your needs.

Here are just a few of my top recommendations that provide a good mix of functionality, durability, and quality.

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS150 Anti-Theft Sling Backpack - Best Anti-Theft Travel Sling Bag

Pacsafe in known for producing some of the of the most innovative anti-theft travel packs . The Pacsafe Metrosafe LS150 Anti-Theft Sling Backpack is their sling backpack variant and includes plenty of built-in security features.

If you're looking for a travel sling bag that offers ultimate protection against thieves in a crossbody style, this is the top choice. The bag is constructed with a nylon exterior and polyester interior with full zipper pockets for easy access.

The bag features Pacsafes innovative anti-theft technologies . This includes their lightweight, hidden eXomesh Slashguard stainless steel wire mesh embedded into fabric to protect you against slash-and-run theft, Lockabout Security Clip, Turn & Lock Security Hook and smart zipper security.

Plus, the bag offers RFIDsafe blocking material integrated into a pocket within the main compartment.

Volume/Weight: 7 Liters / 1.18 lbs

Pockets: 3 interior slip, 2 interior zip, 1 exterior

Material: Nylon/Polyester

Waterproof: No

Laptop Sleeve: Fits 7" tablets, holds iPad

Special Features: Integrated security features

Shop The Pacsafe Metrosafe LS150 Sling Backpack

KAVU Rope Sling Bag

If you are looking for a unique sling backpack that will stick out from others, the KAVU Rope Sling Bag is just that.

The rope shoulder strap gives this crossbody sling backpack a unique look, yet provides a functional way to carry it and allows length adjustments depending if you want to wear if on your shoulder or across your body.

Plus for anyone looking for a specific color, this bag offers the most options out there---from normal shades to crazy patterned options.

The bags design lies somewhere in between a messenger bag, daypack, and purse. Two easy access vertical zippered pockets make it easy to retrieve whatever you need to from you bag, whether your using it for day-to-day use or travel.

The bag is made from durable cotton canvas fabric which will hold up with the harshest use, however it doesn't feature any type of water resistant treatment. This limits it's usability if you need a bag that can protect your camera in wet weather.

Weight: 12 oz

Pockets : 1 interior zip, 3 exterior

Material : Cotton canvas

Waterproof : No

Laptop Sleeve : No

Special Features : Rope shoulder straps, unique color options

Shop The KAVU Rope Sling Bag

OutdoorMaster Sling Bag - Best Sling Bag for the Money

The OutdoorMaster Sling Bag is one of the best sling backpacks for travelers looking for a foldable and packable option. You can easily pack it down into it's built-in zippered pocket and stow it in your larger backpack or luggage.

At around 12 liters this shoulder sling backpack offers a enough space to keep all your daily essentials---camera, water, money, sweater, etc---without being too bulky.

Plus, it's well designed to keep you gear organized with it's interior anti-theft pocket, water bottle holder, and shoulder strap pocket for quick access items, such as a phone.

You can reverse the shoulder strap direction on the bag and wear it on either shoulder. This makes it a great option if various people in the family or group are righties or lefties.

It's construction from a nylon material makes it lightweight and will hold up over time.

The bottom line on this pack is that it's well-designed, built with quality materials, and just the right size for most travelers or daily users who want to carry daily essentials.

Volume/Weight: 12 Liters / 1.10 lbs

Pockets : Hidden anti-theft pocket & external water bottle holder

Material : Nylon

Laptop Sleeve : iPad or laptop up to 12.5""

Special Features : Hidden anti-theft pocket

Shop The OutdoorMaster Sling Bag

Patagonia Atom Sling Bag

As one of the most prominent outdoor clothing manufactures, Patagonia applied their extensive design knowledge to make this single strap backpack for hiking, traveling, or daily use.

The Patagonia Atom Sling Bag offers a great combination of durability and functionality. It's made from recycled polyester with a DWR coating to shed rain or snow.

The pack features 3D spacer mesh on it's shoulder straps and back panel for extra comfort and breathability. It's by no means a large sling backpack, but it's hefty enough to fit most daily essentials and when you need extra room you can use the adjustable buckles to lash your jacket or gear too.

It has a zippered main compartment for larger items, a smaller external pocket, and an easy access pocket on the shoulder strap for phones, etc. For hiking, biking and other outdoor activities the there is a waist belt to keep this hiking sling backpack secure and close to your torso.

Volume/Weight: 8 L / 10.1 oz

Pockets : 2 zippered pockets, 1 main compartment

Material : 630 denier 100% ylon

Waterproof : DWR coating

Laptop Sleeve : Padded, holds tablet

Special Features : Integrated waistbelt, 3D mesh shoulder strap and back panels

Shop The Patagonia Atom Sling Bag

ENKNIGHT Waterproof Chest Bag Casual Sling Bag

Another great budget option is the ENKNIGHT Waterproof Chest Bag Casual Sling Bag .

This 15 liter volume sling bag is constructed from nylon and features a main zippered pocket with integrated iPad or laptop sleeve.

Plus, there is a small anti-theft pocket on the back panel for safe storage of your valuables---credit card, passport, or cash.

When you fill it up you can lash extra gear to the adjustable buckle straps on the outside. This is a feature I really like for hiking and outdoor activities when you need to shed a layer and just want to quickly attach it to your pack. These features make it on of the best hiking sling backpack.

The bag is water resistant and has a adjustable shoulder and waist straps to fit any user and keep the pack secure.

Volume: 15 Liters

Material: Ripstop nylon

Pockets : Internal mesh pocket, small secure pocket on the back, water bottle pocket.

Water Resistant : Yes

Laptop Sleeve : Yes

Special Features : Anti-theft pocket, external straps for lashing gear to, waist strap

Shop The ENKNIGHT Waterproof Chest Bag

Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack

The Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover is designed as a tactical sling pack, but is just as versatile for general outdoor, travel or everyday use.

At 9 liters in volume it's geared towards a small sling backpack that is easy to carry around and doesn't inhibit your maneuverability.

Built from durable 600D polyester it features an adjustable ambidextrous strap for over the shoulder carry on both sides.

The pack has four compartments to help keep your gear organized, with the largest capable of holding an iPad, cameras, umbrellas, and other gear.

Overall this is a great single strap backpack for rugged users who want a super tough bag that holds up to extensive outdoor use.

Volume/Weight: 9 Liters / 3 lbs

Pockets : Four compartments

Material : 600 Denier Polyester

Water Resistant : No

Special Features : Ambidextrous strap, ultra-durable

Shop The Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack

Lowepro Slingshot Edge 150 AW Camera Bag - Best Camera Sling Bag

Camera sling bags are perfect for travelers who take along a mirrorless kit for use as their daily camera. You can easily snap photos, store your camera in your bag, and get it out again with ease when you need it.

The Lowepro Slingshot Edge 150 AW Camera Bag has been my top pick for a single strap backpack that can hold a mirrorless camera with an attached zoom lens. I've used mine for anything from international trips to daily use when I just want to tote along my camera.

The bag is specially designed with photography in mind and features padded dividers, multiple accessory pockets, extra lens storage and a tripod holder.

But let's go through it step by step. For security the Slingshot Edge has a lower compartment which unzips along the backside of the bag.

In the zippered top compartment you can store a charger, external battery and more. You will even find room in there for some snacks as well as an addition small zippered internal pocket. The top compartment offers also a sleeve which holds a small tablet.

For all your other daily essentials you want to bring with you, you will find the zippered pocket on the very front of the Lowepro Sling Bag pretty handy.

For comfortable carrying the shoulder strap has a good amount of padding and it is adjustable for your convenience.

Additionally I have to mention the waterproof rain cover that comes with the bag to provide protection in wet conditions. It is stored in a separate zippered pocket at the bottom of the bag and if needed it just unfolds very easily to cover your bag.

The Slingshot Edge 150 AW is the updated version of the Lowepro Slingshot 102 DSLR Sling Camera Bag.

The bottom line is this camera sling bag is great for when you want to grab you camera without taking the bag off your shoulders. You can easily rotate the bag from back to front and access all your gear.

Weight: 1.54 lbs

Pockets : 1 zippered internal / 1 external pocket, 1 bottle sleeve

Material : Polyester

Water resistant : Waterproof rain cover in pocket

Laptop Sleeve : Fits small tablet

Special Features : All Weather AW Cover, tripod holder

Shop The Lowepro Slingshot Edge 150 AW Camera Bag

Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack for DSLR

Another great camera sling bag option is the Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack for DSLR . Although I'm a fan of Lowepro camera bags, this bag puts up a lot of competition when it comes to the best camera sling backpack.

Overall the bag is well designed and offers all the features you'd expect from a high-quality camera bag. It can hold most DSLR cameras with a standard zoom lens and an extra lens or flash.

The internal compartments can be customized just the way you need them and there are numerous mesh pockets for storing extra batteries, memory cards, and other gear. The bag also features an exterior tripod holder.

Overall it's a solid option for a lightweight and durable camera sling bag option that allows you to quickly access your camera gear with a quick rotation from the back to the front of your body.

Weight : 1.1 lbs

Pockets : 1 main with customizable divider walls, mesh pockets for accessories

Material : n/a

Special Features : Adjustable dividers, tripod holder, quick access side doors

Shop The Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack

Under Armour Compel Sling 2.0 Backpack

The Under Armour Compel Sling Bag is a classic backpack with one strap design that can be used for anything from hitting the gym, day-to-day use, or traveling.

Its durable polyester material has the UA Storm technology to repel water in light rainfall. Additionally the valuables pocket is also water resistant to keep your small electronis safe.

The bag features a soft laptop sleeve that holds up to a 15" laptop or iPad.

The bag can be worn comfortably as a cross body backpack with it's adjustable heavy duty padded strap.

For gear storage you have a larger top-access internal compartment, two front zip pockets and a zippered pocket for your valuables.

Volume/Weight: 16.4 Liters / 1.6 lbs

Material : 100% Polyester

Pockets : Water-resistant valuables pocket, front zip organization pocket

Water Resistant : Yes (DWR finish)

Laptop Sleeve : Yes, holds up to 15” laptop

Special Features : UA Storm technology

Shop The Under Armour Compel Sling 2.0 Backpack

SEEU Waterproof Sling Bag Backpack

This bag has most features that higher-end sling backpacks offer, yet won't break your budget. As far as the most bang-for-the-buck, the SEEU Waterproof Sling Bag Backpack is hard to beat.

This 15 liter capacity large sling bag is still ultra-lightweight at just 7 ounces and comes with a handful of practical design features.

There are extra straps and handles for carrying the bag, large zipper pulls for easy opening, a headphone jack leading to an internal pocket, and a torso wrapping design for keeping the pack close to your body.

The bag is made from water repellent ripstop polyester to provide extra durability. For gear storage it offers a main pocket large enough for storing an iPad or travel guides, a front pocket on the shoulder strap for keys or phone, other organization pockets and a water bottle side pocket.

One thing to note is that although the brand named it as a waterproof sling backpack, it is only water resistant and is not fully submersible.

The bag is built with 3D decompression and breathable material on the back panel for comfortable wear in hot conditions.

Overall it's a versatile crossbody backpack for anything from day trips, outdoor use, camping, or just about anything you can throw at it.

Volume/Weight: 20 Liters / 7 oz

Pockets : 1 front pocket, 1 main pocket, 1 briefcase

Material : Water repellent tear resistant polyester

Laptop Sleeve : Holds iPad

Special Features : Large zipper pulls, headphone jack

Shop The SEEU Waterproof Sling Bag

Sling Backpack Buying Guide

This guide breaks down everything you need to consider when choosing the right shoulder sling backpack.

So whether you are looking for a secure travel sling bag to carry along on your daily outings or a small sling backpack to haul a extra set of clothes to the gym, you're sure to find the right bag.

Types of Sling Backpacks

In general a sling backpack will be designed to be used as a backpack with one strap. You can easily throw it over a should and also swing it in front of your body to quickly access your gear.

However, there are various types of sling backpacks on the market. Certain models may be geared toward a different intended use and include special built-in features.

You'll find sling bags designed for carrying camera equipment, travel use, foldable models, bags geared towards hiking, anti-theft bags, waterproof bags, trendy options for everyday use, and bags made for the gym.

Depending on what you want to get from your sling backpack, be sure to choose one that fits your intended use.

You don't want to buy a camera sling bag with a DSLR camera or laptop compartment if you won't be using it. Likewise a sling travel bag will have features more useful for using it as a travel daypack while exploring new destinations.

Why Get a Sling Backpack?

Sling backpacks are great in any situation when you need easy access to your gear frequently. If you've ever traveled with a DSLR camera you know that you're always putting and way and taking about your camera throughout the day.

Single strap backpacks allow you to swing the bag around to the front of your body where you can easily access what you need without removing the bag. This is by far the biggest benefit of a one strap backpack.

Of course, there are times with a traditional daypack or two strap backpack will serve you better, but for just carrying smaller items and ease of access a one strap backpack is hard to beat.

A small sling backpack is also less bulky than most backpacks as it forms around you body and side. This makes it easier to get around in tight or crowded situations. Not to mention that many museums and attractions only allow smaller sized bags to enter.

When you just need a few essential items, such as camera, small jacket, some snacks, and a water bottle a sling backpack works perfect.

Pros & Cons of Sling Backpacks

There are obvious advantages and drawbacks of using a sling backpack vs a normal backpack.

As I mentioned above, one strap backpacks make it much easier to access your gear than normal backpacks.

You can both put in and take out whatever you need while leaving the bag on. All you have to do is slide the bag around your body to the front.

They are comfortable to wear and provide a good balance of weight across your back. However, some one strap backpack models are only made to wear on one side, so you cannot switch back and forth between shoulders.

This can be annoying to some people who don't like to always carry things on one side.

Shoulder sling bags are generally smaller in size, around 15 to 20 liters in volume, which is comparable to most daypacks. If you need to haul a lot of gear, you're probably better off using a dedicated travel backpack.

But you just need to carry smaller items, then shoulder sling bags are great and provide a small profile on your back. This means no bulky half-full backpacks.

How To Choose the Right Sling Backpack

The most important factor when choosing the right shoulder sling backpack is it's size and capacity. You want a bag that can easily store everything you want on you daily adventures, while not being overly bulky or heavy.

You'll find both small and large sling backpacks available. Most range from 10 to 20 liters in volume, which is comparable to your average daypack.

Before narrowing down your options you'll want to consider how you'll be using the bag and what you need to fit inside.

I find that when I use my sling backpack I mostly use it for wandering around while traveling, which means I just need to fit a few essential items for the day. For this use you'll find that most models are the perfect fit.

Price Range

Clearly price is one of the biggest factors when buying a new pack---or any travel gear for that matter.

I always recommend spending enough to ensure that you are buying a high-quality product. It's worth it in my opinion to spend a bit more and not have to replace it in short time.

The good news is that you don't need to break your budget when buying one of the best sling backpacks. Unlike backpacks that can have sky-high price tags, you'll find that crossbody sling backpacks are generally much more affordable.

You can expect to spend anywhere from around $20 for a budget model to upwards of $100 for the highest end options. The most important thing to consider when choosing a price range is that you purchase a high-quality bag that will last.

The last thing you want is the stitching to fail after just a few uses. A well-built crossbody sling backpack will last for years and accompany you on many trips.

Materials & Durability

Similar to daypacks and travel backpacks you want to make sure the bag you select is constructed with durable materials. This is especially true if you are looking for a hiking sling backpack that will be out in the elements and brushed against rocks.

This means high denier polyester, nylon or a strong cotton or canvas fabric. Ideally the bag should be made with ripstop fabric for ultimate strength and to prevent rips and tears.

If you want a most durable sling backpack I'd suggest going with a high denier ripstop polyster that is treated with DWR. This is a lightweight, yet strong fabric option that can be treated with a water resistant coating to shed water.

Zipper quality are also important when it comes to durability. The best sling bags are built with YKK zippers which are the gold standard when it comes to zippers.

Design & Features

How do you plan to primarily use your sling backpack? While traveling? What about hiking? For photography?

Depending on how you'll primarily use your crossbody backpack there are bag designs and features that may suit you better.

Some features to consider when choosing the best one strap backpack include:

Overall storage options - large vs. small pockets
Dedicated camera compartment
Tripod holder
Laptop sleeve
Water bottle pocket
Secret storage pocket for valuables, passport, etc
Water resistant fabric or rain cover
Exterior pockets for quick access
Multi-side carry - carry bag on either shoulder

If you are looking primarily for a sling travel bag two of the most important features you'll want to consider are safety and yet having easy access to your belongings.

Comfort & Fit

There's no point in buying a bag if it's not comfortable to wear all-day long. The last thing you want is to be constantly readjusting your pack because of a uncomfortable shoulder strap or unbalanced feel.

An important feature that the best crossbody sling backpack should have include is a padded shoulder strap.

Since the weight of a one strap backpack is carried on only a single shoulder its important to have a wide padded strap for comfort. A narrow strap can cut into your shoulder making it incredibly uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.

Most crossbody sling backpacks will include a buckle on the shoulder strap to make quick adjustments. This allows you to adjust where the bag sits on your back and is especially important if you are a short or tall user.

For ultimate carrying stability you may also want to consider a sling bag with a waist belt. This option makes sure that the bag does not move around or slip to the front when you are actively moving around.

An example of a bag that offers this is the Patagonia Atom Sling Bag .

Water Resistance

When you're traveling you never know what mother nature will through at you. It's always wise to have gear that can hold up in wet conditions and your pack is the first defense for keeping your gear dry.

There are waterproof sling bags that are designed to keep shed rain and snow, but be wary of the claim 'fully waterproof'.

Most models do not function as a dry bag and are not 100% waterproof. Instead they are treated with a that sheds rain. This works well in light precipitation, but don't except your stuff to stay dry if it's left out all night in the rain.

Some options also come with a built in rain cover, such as the Lowepro Slingshot Edge 150 AW Camera Bag , which is fully waterproof to protect your camera gear.

Most one shoulder backpacks are incredibly packable given their smaller size and minimal material. If you want a more packable option choose one that is easily foldable and constructed without a rigid or bulky design.

This is a great option if you want a crossbody sling backpack that you can easily store away in your luggage in transit to your final destination.

The Bottom Line

Sling backpacks are ideal for anyone that wants a versatile and comfortable way to carry everyday essentials while traveling or daily use. They are the perfect alternative to a daypack or anytime you don't want to carry a two strap backpack.

I prefer to use them when I want a way to quickly access my gear, such as my camera, wallet, or anything else without having to remove my whole pack.

There are tons of sling backpack options out to choose from. These are just some of my top recommendations to look at when comparing bags.

If you are looking for the best sling backpack for travel, take a look at the Pacsafe Metrosafe .

For a camera sling bag that keeps your DSLR secure I like the Lowepro Slingshot .

If you're on a budget, the OutdoorMaster Sling Bag is a great option that offers all the features you need, but won't break your budget.

You can also read our guides to the best anti theft bags , finding the right travel backpack and buying the best waterproof backpack .

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Luggage + Bags
Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These spacious and comfortable carry-on backpacks can easily replace a suitcase.

In This Article

Our Top Picks
Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

Tips For Buying
Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Skip the stress of checking in a bag or lugging a traditional carry-on suitcase around an airport by adding a carry-on backpack to your travel gear. Practical, functional, and hassle-free, a carry-on backpack can fit up to a week’s worth of clothes, depending on your wardrobe and packing prowess. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or embarking on a weekend getaway, this style helps make your trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

We tested dozens of carry-on backpacks and evaluated them based on traits like capacity, comfort, durability, and design. First, we tested the backpacks in our New York City lab and utilized our airplane set complete with row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins. We then took them out into the world for six months to further test each bag on a variety of trips. From rugged to sleek styles, we tested plenty of carry-on backpacks ranging in design and size that impressed us.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Capacity 5 /5
Design 5 /5
Durability 5 /5
Comfort 5 /5

The backpack has an unstructured style that makes it easy to pack clothing and accessories, plus a plethora of thoughtful features catered to frequent travelers.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

Salt Lake City-based outdoor gear brand Cotopaxi builds brightly colored clothing and accessories to last. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with its perfect performance in all categories of our testing. We loved its high capacity and thought the unstructured style was ideal for wedging clothes into every corner, maximizing packing space in the clamshell-style compartments. The shell is made of a TPU-coated 1000D polyester with a rubbery feel, and although it feels resistant to liquids, the backpack comes with a rain cover to ensure that your belongings stay dry while traveling. Handles on all four sides of the backpack make it easy to carry and lift into an overhead bin from any angle. The only downside to the bag is that it doesn't have a water bottle holder on the sides, so you'll have to carry one or try to fit it in the top pocket in the front.

We think this durable Cotopaxi bag will remain in excellent condition no matter how many times it hits the road, as it was not damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed it onto the ground. The rubber texture also seemed easy to clean and resistant to liquid spills. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found that it's the perfect size for long weekend trips and helps keep all of our items organized and easy to access. Both stylish and functional, this backpack can even be made one-of-a-kind by choosing the surprise colors option when purchased through Cotopaxi’s website.

The Details: 35 liters | 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.8 pounds | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, nylon | Padded laptop sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Away the outdoor convertible backpack 45l.

Design 4.5 /5

We love how comfortable it is on your shoulders and back thanks to the soft materials and cushioned shoulder straps.

At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.

You'll be surprised by just how spacious this backpack is. The main compartment opens up like a clam shell for easy access to items that allowed us to fit an entire four-day packing list with ease — plus a few extra items. There are multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets in this backpack that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter backpack can grow heavy when completely filled, the padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods of time. Plus, the convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you do grow fatigued.

This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times. There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag's fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.

The Details: 45 liters | 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

It’s spacious and comes with three packing cubes to stay organized while traveling.

After six months of use, the bag is scuffed up with noticeable scratches.

Perfect for travelers on a budget, the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack impressed us with its packing features and comfortable fit. We thought the bag provided excellent organization thanks to the interior and exterior compression that provided extra room for packing. The backpack comes with three different packing cubes in small, medium, and large. We also like that this backpack includes both a suitcase strap and a handle to hold it horizontally. The backpack itself also features straps inside and a laptop sleeve to easily hold down items and pack electronics.

The design didn’t blow us away like those from some of the more costly brands, but it does have a laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder. We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle. However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage. We think this budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack.

The Details: 40 liters | 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | 2.7 pounds | Polyester | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Traditional

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

Design 4 /5
Durability 4 /5

Thanks to its clamshell design, it’s like a suitcase without wheels.

Some of the straps weren’t intuitive to use.

The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack is ideal for travelers who like the structure and sleek, minimalist style of a traditional suitcase but want the portability of a backpack. We love that this bag opens like a suitcase, making it easy to access everything inside. There was plenty of space leftover after packing the backpack, and the classic clamshell opening allowed for easy access to items in the compression-strapped main compartment and the zippered pockets on the inside of the front flap. All of the interior and exterior pockets, including the water bottle holder and padded laptop sleeve, are useful for traveling. You can convert the backpack to wear as a duffel bag or a briefcase, and it has a rear strap to place on a rolling suitcase if desired. The straps were easy to adjust, and it felt like the weight was nicely distributed thanks to the structured style of the backpack. There was a small scuff on the bag after we tossed it on the floor during our durability tests, but the contents of the backpack remained unharmed. When flying with the bag during our six-month testing period, we found that it easily fits in airplane overhead bins and under the seat. Overall, it’s a backpack with the features of a well-compartmentalized suitcase and much more.

The Details: 13 x 20.5 x 10.5 inches | 3.31 pounds | Polyester, recyclex | Padded laptop pocket | Convertible straps

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

Value 4.5 /5

You can access the main compartment on the bag from four different exterior zippers.

This is one of the most expensive backpack on our list.

This 45-liter backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its expansive design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Placing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was efficient and simple thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps to hold everything down securely. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag . It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod.

Peak Design didn’t let any space go to waste on its backpack, so even the hip belt has a small pocket on it for storage and can be packed away when you’re not looking for extra support. It’s also easy to adjust all of the straps to prevent weight imbalances and pinching. Made of weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the bag held up perfectly after we tossed it on the ground, showing no signs of scuffs or damage — exactly what you want in a durable backpack . Although the price of this bag is steep, it comes with plenty of helpful features for travelers, and the stellar performance leads us to believe that it would last a long time.

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

Comfort 4 /5

It can be converted from 40 liters for traveling to 22 liters to use as a daypack.

The handle on the top of the bag wasn’t as comfortable to hold onto as we hoped.

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use. After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long. We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting.

The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpack, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost.

The Details: 20-42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

Topo Designs

Capacity 4 /5

There are tons of pockets and a laptop compartment to help you organize your belongings.

After six months of use, we noticed the bag can feel quite heavy if packed full.

Packing for a trip can often feel tedious, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L helps make it easy and efficient. We loved how convenient it is to store a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment in the back of the bag, and there are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger. There are a ton of compartments and pockets that offer plenty of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes, with places to stash cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and more.

The adjustable shoulder straps and straps that go across the chest and waist help evenly distribute the backpack's weight, making it more comfortable to carry around, although we noticed during our long-term testing that the bag can still feel heavy if you pack it completely full. The 100 percent recycled nylon material felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time.

The Details: 30 liters | 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches

Best Customizable

Roam the continental.

Capacity 4.5 /5
Comfort 4.8 /5

You can choose from four colors to customize the shade of the front, back, sides, and straps of the backpack.

The laptop sleeve isn’t padded.

Customized luggage can be hard to come by, but Roam’s The Continental backpack makes it easier than ever to build the carry-on backpack of your dreams. The front, back, sides, and straps of the bag can be red, green, black, or blue, or you can keep the backpack all one color for a monochromatic look. We were a bit worried about the light colors when we first got our hands on this bag, but after four months of traveling, is has no signs of wear and tear, there are no stains or loose threads, and everything is still in good shape. We were also impressed by the exterior pockets to stash headphones, snacks, chargers, water bottles, or anything else you could need whether lounging in the airport or mid-flight. The bag is made with a lightweight, water-repellent fabric and YKK zippers so it easily handles temperamental weather while traveling. Spacious and easy to access, the front flap opens wide so packing the bag with clothes and shoes was a breeze, too. The laptop pocket in the back could easily fit a 17-inch device, but it isn’t padded, so you may want to store your computer in a case to be on the safe side.

The Details: 26 liters | 17.75 x 14 x 8 inches | 2.4 pounds | Water-repellent fabric | Laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

Capacity 4.8 /5
Comfort 4.5 /5
Durability 4.5 /5
Value 4.8 /5

The expandable zippers add an extra 3.5 inches of space which increases the capacity to 30 liters.

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, the bag has a variety of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the number of pockets on the interior was a bit overwhelming at first, travelers who like to be extra organized will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and plethora of slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment. The handles and padded shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying the bag, and the small-to-medium size of the backpack makes it super comfortable to carry since it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.

The Details: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters) | 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches | 4.16 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

Durability 4.3 /5

It has several compartments for keeping clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories organized.

The materials feel a little lower in quality than other backpacks we tried.

If you’re not ready to invest in a pricier carry-on backpack, you can always dip your toes with this functional and spacious one for under $60. This 40-liter backpack has one large main compartment that can fit several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case without any issues. We particularly love the separate footwear compartment to prevent the bottom of your shoes from coming into contact with clean clothes and that storage can even fit pairs up to size 12. In addition, there is a laptop pocket and a large front pocket with spots to put items like phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories that could get lost easily. Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it.

The Details: 40 liters | 20 x 13 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Water-repellent nylon

Best for Hiking

Kühl eskape 25.

The 25-liter capacity makes this backpack versatile for an airplane or the great outdoors.

It takes some adjustments to get it to fit comfortably on the back.

This rugged carry-on backpack from Kühl is the perfect option for travelers embarking on an outdoor adventure. The smaller size of this bag is its greatest strength since it can easily fit enough clothes for a weekend trip, or you can use it as an adventure pack for day hikes or camping trips. There are a variety of thoughtful features for hikers including a stowaway hip belt for extra support while trekking, load-lifting shoulder straps, and the bag is made with durable TPU-laminated nylon. Plus, the chest strap slides up and down the shoulder straps so travelers can get the most comfortable fit for their upper body. We found that it takes some extra effort to adjust all of the straps for the right fit, but once you do, the bag is comfortable to carry for long periods of time. For even more versatility, the bag has a padded laptop pocket and a variety of other small and large zippered pockets to stay organized if you’re commuting or traveling for work.

The Details: 25 liters | 20.5 x 9.5 x 12.5 inches | Waterproof nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is basically a suitcase without wheels thanks to its large capacity and clamshell-style opening.

The bag can feel a bit heavy to carry when it’s fully packed.

If you’re traveling somewhere with a rainy climate, you’ll want a carry-on backpack like this one from Tortuga that can ward off the elements. It’s made with the brand’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 or “sailcloth” material to protect your belongings and prevent bad weather from putting a serious damper on your trip. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack essentially sat in a puddle for hours, yet none of our gear or clothing inside got wet at all, and the bag was easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

This is a seriously spacious bag at 40 liters, so we found that you can seamlessly fit a week’s worth of clothing (or more) between the two clamshell compartments. Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side. And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.

The Details: 40 liters | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Waterproof sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

This lightweight backpack has a sleek and contemporary design that comes in several earthy colors.

It has a smaller capacity than many backpacks and can only fit a day or two of clothes.

If you’re looking to travel in style, Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to be best suited for weekend trips because of its smaller capacity. The bag fit all of the packing items during testing, but it would be difficult to fit much more in the main compartment. The ReNew Transit was comfortable to wear thanks to its lightweight polyester material and compact build. The front flap of the backpack has an external pocket for smaller items, and it folds over to attach magnetically to the front of the backpack. During our durability tests, the front magnets stayed securely together, and the body of the backpack didn’t get crushed or damaged. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack for traveling with or without other pieces of luggage. There is a laptop sleeve in the back of the bag as well as a water bottle holder on the side and a front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With four earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences.

The Details: 27 liters | 12 x 17.5 x 7.25 inches

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

The compartments and various straps made packing effortless.

It’s a large bag, but it wasn’t so heavy that it was uncomfortable to wear.

For travelers journeying on foot, the Osprey Fairview wowed us with its spacious interior and comfortable fit. The straps for walking longer distances are really the best part — making your bag feel like you're carrying less since the weight is so well distributed. The bags have the same storage capacity and general style, but Osprey’s women’s backpacks are designed to fit a smaller torso with waist and chest harnesses that sit upward and outward for a more comfortable carry. In testing, the main compartment and mesh zippered pouch on the front flap proved to be spacious. There are two internal compression straps and one external strap that kept belongings secure through our rough handling, so we think the bag would provide sufficient protection if you do need to check it in for a flight.

We appreciated the padded shoulder straps and back that made wearing the backpack comfortable, despite the weight of its contents. The Osprey Fairview bags have an internal suspension the brand calls “LightWire” that distributes the weight from the harness to the hip belt, and our shoulders didn’t hurt after carrying the backpack since most of the weight shifted to the lower body.

The Details: 40 liters | 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on backpacks, there were some that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses revealed during testing.

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus : We loved the adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the bag when not in use, but we think there are better bags out there for a fraction of the price.

AmazonBasics Carry-on Travel Backpack : It had plenty of compartments for staying organized and the material felt durable, but there weren’t any standout features that made it a must-have backpack.

Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L : This backpack fits all of the packing items, and it even fits under an airplane seat, but our budget pick performed slightly better and it costs less.

On two separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 34 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight on how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available.

To test for capacity, we began by packing the bags with three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. We noted if any space was leftover as well as how functional the compartments were for organizing the contents packed. We evaluated the overall design of the bags by paying attention to how they fold out, how well the zippers and buckles work, and the functionality of each pocket or compartment.

Next, we put on the backpacks and walked around for 10 minutes to rate comfortability. The highest scoring backpacks were exceptionally enjoyable to wear with the weight evenly distributed on the shoulders or hips.

Then, we threw the backpacks a few feet or off a countertop to test for durability. The highest-rated bags had no scuffs or tears after rough handling, and the packed items inside remained unharmed as well.

Our testers had no previous knowledge of the cost of each backpack until after testing was completed. This allowed us to give an unbiased rating of overall values, where the top bags were determined to be fairly priced based on a high-quality performance, especially for the pricier bags. After our lab tests, the backpacks were sent out for real-world testing for up to six months.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags.

Not all carry-on backpacks will fit under the seat of an airplane, but if that’s your intended use, we recommend checking an airline’s underseat dimensions before heading to the airport. Similarly, with a carry-on backpack for the overhead bin, you’ll want to double-check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid paying unwanted fees if the bag is stuffed full of clothes.

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space. When traveling by air, you might also want to consider an option with wheels for added convenience, like a rolling backpack, weekender, or duffel bag .

Frequently Asked Questions

During our test, we packed three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag into each bag and often had extra space for more clothes. Many backpacks come with a laptop compartment , but you’ll want to make sure that feature is included before purchasing yours.

Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to not fit within some limits. Most bags will have a product details section highlighting the dimensions of the backpack. If you’re looking to fit the bag solely under the seat , you should check to make sure the bag fits the dimensions while it’s packed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L, where she reviews travel products and writes the majority of the team's "Travel + Leisure Trusted" articles. Anna owns several carry-on backpacks, including the top pick from Cotopaxi, so she combined knowledge of traveling with just a backpack and the thorough lab testing and real-world insights to put together this list of the best carry-on backpacks.

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> Carry On

The Best Backpacks for One-Bag Travel

Updated on September 2018

Travel varies for all of us. Some of us dart back and forth across the globe in short bursts for business. Others seek out adventure and travel far and wide for months or even years on end. Some of us do a little of both. But when churning over the best one-bag travel backpack to be your companion, five key considerations always spring up.

The lighter a bag is, the less strain there is on your body. You won’t tire as quickly, you’ll be inclined to explore further, and you’ll enjoy the general traveling experience more. Not to mention shedding carry weight helps you avoid overweight baggage fees.

Something to bear in mind though is that lightweight materials can also be expensive, so you may have to pay more for a bag that cuts weight but stills offers reliable durability. While finding a lightweight bag will help you reduce carry weight, it’s also good practice to try and pack less if you can . Every little helps!

The more comfortable your bag is, the happier you’ll be. Traveling is tiring enough without adding an uncomfortable bag to the mix. However, the level of comfort you need will depend on your intended travel. If you’ll be on the go for a long time, have a lot to carry, or will be doing outdoor-type trips, a comfortable backpack with good suspension is important.

Try to look for a bag with a hip belt, great harness and load stabilizing shoulder straps to help with the load and transfer carry weight to your hips. Lighter loads and shorter travel distances however allow for more carry flexibility, and if you need to you can compromise on comfort a bit for other features that are more useful to your needs. It’s always good to try before you buy, so if possible go into a local store and try on different bags to see which ones feel right for you.

Packability and access

This is how easy you can get stuff in and take stuff out. You want to be able to access specific items without having to unpack a lot of your gear in the process. And it’s nice to be able to pack your gear into your pack quickly and smoothly when preparing to skip to new locales.

So consider how the bag opens (for example is it a top-loader, clamshell-style, etc.) and whether it’s right for you. Does it offer easy-access pockets for frequently used items? Do you require a lot of organization? Perhaps you need to keep business and personal items separate? Do you need compression options? These are all useful questions to consider when deciding whether a travel bag is suitable for your requirements.

Travel can be demanding. Your bag may encounter rough terrain or wet weather, but there’s also the strain of being wedged into tight spaces such as overhead luggage bins, or having to endure unforgiving baggage carousels. Plus general wear and tear. The more durable a bag is, the more punishment it will be able to withstand.

However, greater durability can sometimes come at the cost of greater weight, so you’ll need to decide whether durability or weight is a priority. Your travel activities will also dictate the level of durability you need, for instance short business travel trips (where your bag is unlikely to encounter a lot of demanding environments) versus multi-week outdoor adventures.

Versatility

As with all of the considerations above, the degree of versatility you require in your carry will depend on its intended use. You may want to mix outdoor and urban travel, in which case your bag will need to be able to handle diverse environments. Perhaps you want the flexibility to carry a variety of loads, so a bag with expandability features could be a good fit. Organization and aesthetics are also important here. For example you may want a business bag that looks the part, keeps your work and personal items separate, and can be carried in a variety of ways for easy movement outside of work settings.

Now that you’ve got some key considerations in mind, here are a few of our top picks to suit a wide range of one-bag travel needs.

Osprey Porter 46 ($130)

Affordable and accessible

Osprey’s Porter 46 is suitable for carry-on use, and good value for money. At 2 lbs. 6.45 oz. (1.09 kg), it won’t weigh you down and swallows gear like a champ. A good mix of pockets keep items organized, including a padded laptop pocket. Its stowable backpack straps and hip belt help clean up the exterior if you want to carry it by the side handle or need to check it in for any reason. The StraightJacket compression with foam sidewalls is handy for cinching down the load and protecting your gear, and the main compartment’s panel zip access provides convenient packing and access. And this is Osprey, so you know the harness is super awesome.

Dimensions: 58cm (L) x 40cm (W) x 31cm (D)

The North Face Overhaul 40 ($159)

Great all-rounder

The versatile North Face Overhaul 40 can handle both outdoor day trips and urban environments. Coming in at 3 lbs. 3 oz. (1.45 kg), it’s comfy to wear and fitted with cushy straps, a padded harness and waist belt. And if you’re inclined to compartmentalize, it offers a healthy arsenal of pockets for organization, including a lay-flat laptop compartment for smooth transitions through checkpoints. At $159, it’s a solid option.

Dimensions: 21″ x 12″ x 7″

GOBAG 2.0 ($175.98)

Compression and modularity for easier travels

The 35L GOBAG ( updated to 2.0 ) has a range of nifty features to help make traveling easier. A waterproof rolltop compression bag inside the main compartment lets you compress soft goods to maximize your packing space. Plus modular components allow you to tailor your carry to different trips, such as a removable and adaptable laptop harness that fits a range of laptop sizes. Further modular components include a wash bag that can be secured to the interior Velcro panel and removed easily at airport security, as well as a removable waist belt. A full edge zip and clamshell opening help you get to gear easily and quickly, and a waterproof document pocket keeps valuable papers safe from the elements.

Dimensions: 50 x 20 x 35cm (L, D,W)

Tortuga Setout Divide Backpack ($179)

Expandable for easy adaptability

For short trips you don’t need to carry a lot. But sometimes you need the flexibility to pack in extra, such as a souvenir from your travels or an extra layer in colder weather. Tortuga’s Setout Divide Backpack has you covered with an expandable design that increases from 26L to 34L. Compact when you don’t need the extra space. Ready to accommodate when you do. The clamshell opening and multiple pockets keep gear secure, tidy and easily accessible as required. And the lightweight, weather-resistant build won’t weigh you down at just 3.8 lbs.

Dimensions: 20″ x 13″ x 6″ (expands to 8″)

Mystery Ranch Scree ($179)

Outdoor meets urban exploration

Weighing 3.1 lbs (1.4 kg), the nimble Scree is a solid choice if you’re after a smaller multifunctional pack that can roam the outdoors, tag along for overnight travel trips, and serve as an about-town daypack. Mystery Ranch’s innovative 3-Zip design provides great access, and the tough construction ensures it can handle whatever you throw at it. The pack accommodates a hydration bladder as well as water bottles, has crosshatched webbing on the exterior to attach small extras, and includes quick-access pockets for stashing frequently used items. An added bonus is the adjustable yoke which provides a customized fit for superior carry comfort.

Dimensions: 26″ x 14.5″ x 11″ (66cm x 37cm x 28cm)

Rocky Mountain Underground Core Pack ($179.98)

Rocky Mountain Underground Core Adventure Travel Pack

A versatile outdoor adventurer

RMU’s Core Pack is a versatile 35L backpack that lends itself to a variety of outdoor uses. The 270-degree clamshell design opens wide for easy packing and retrieval of gear, and the pack also offers quick-access storage for items such as climbing rope, avalanche safety equipment and ski goggles. Additional handy features include dual hydration ports, an inbuilt helmet holder, as well as diagonal and A-frame ski and snowboard carry options.

Dimensions: 26″ x 11.4″ x 7.9″

Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($199)

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC provides great organization and flexible carry options for trips lasting 3 to 5 days. The main compartment opens clamshell-style for convenient packing and access. There are plenty of interior and exterior pockets for keeping gear neat and tidy and accessing frequently used items easily. The bag weighs 1,655 g (3 lbs 10.4 oz) and offers three different carry options including stowable backpack straps, a shoulder strap, and carry grab handles.

Dimensions: 22.8″ x 14.5″ x 8.6″

Tortuga Setout Backpack ($199)

Handy features that work harmoniously together

Winner of our Best Carry-On Bag Award , the Tortuga Setout Backpack offers a great mix of features in a thoughtfully considered design weighing 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg). There’s plenty of usable space with easy clamshell access, as well as useful organization pockets for tech and travel essentials. The low-key aesthetics blend into a variety of environments. And the comfortable, weather-resistant and durable build will provide years of enjoyable and reliable use.

Dimensions: 22″ x 14″ x 9″

Arc’teryx Blade 28 ($199)

Short business trips

The Arc’teryx Blade 28 is a sleek choice (and Carry Award winner! ) for overnight business trips, and can be carried as a backpack or briefcase-style using the side handle. The understated aesthetics suit urban settings, and the main compartment’s clamshell opening makes packing and getting to gear straightforward. The 1.46 kg (51 oz.) pack is good for storing business and travel essentials separately, with space for a 15″ laptop, clothing and work tools. The build? World class.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($235)

EDC meets one-bag travel

The Synapse 25 is a comfortable and versatile backpack that works well as both an everyday carry pack and a carry-on backpack. The bag comes in a choice of fabric options including 400D Halcyon®/420D nylon ripstop weighing 1 lb 11 oz / 770 grams, as well as 1000D Cordura® weighing 1 lb 13 oz / 820 grams. Excellent organization means no shortage of pockets for stashing smaller items while retaining a sleek silhouette.

Dimensions: 20″ x 13.4″ x 9″ / 508 x 340 x 230 mm

Ae r Travel Pack 2 ($230)

Sleek urban style with efficient access

With its understated aesthetics and durable construction, the Aer Travel Pack 2 looks stylish for work and holiday trips alike while being tough enough to withstand the demands of life on the go. The main compartment features a handy clamshell-style opening, while dedicated storage for a 15″ laptop, a ventilated shoe compartment, and accessible pockets for smaller items help make packing and retrieving gear easier. A luggage pass-through sleeve also makes it easy to secure the pack to rolling luggage. The pack weighs 3.7 lbs and can also be cinched down with side compression straps to form a compact daypack.

Dimensions: 21.5″ (55 cm) x 13.5″ (34 cm) x 8.5″ (22 cm)

Gregory Covert Extended Mission ($235)

Business functionality with carry flexibility

Urban-friendly aesthetics, good organization and a range of carry options make the 22L Gregory Covert Extended Mission a handy partner for overnight or two-day business trips. The bag weighs 1.2 kg and can be carried as a backpack, briefcase or shoulder bag, with multiple pockets and compartments for organizing business items and personal gear.

Dimensions: 28cm (H) x 42cm (L) x 15cm (D)

Peak Design Travel Backpack ($235)

Thoughtful features in a well-considered whole

Peak Design’s 45L Travel Backpack combines clean style, great access and useful organization. And what makes it stand out is that all its carefully considered features work harmoniously, making this pack greater than the sum of its parts. The back panel access and dual side access lets you easily pack and get to gear. And the stowable harness keeps things snag-free when you need to fit the pack in tight spaces. Plenty of pockets are on hand for organization, including storage for a 15″ laptop and a tablet. And with its compression and expansion capabilities you can easily tailor it to different trips and day use at your destination.

Osprey Farpoint 55 ($240)

Backpacking in search of adventure

The Farpoint 55 offers excellent versatility for outdoor adventures, round-the-world trips and multi-week city stays alike. The M/L size weighs in at 3 lbs. 14.4 oz. (1.77 kg), and is too large to serve as a carry-on (check out the smaller Farpoint 40 for that). However, the stowable suspension system allows for a sleek silhouette when checking the bag in. The Farpoint 55 offers a range of handy features including a detachable 13L daypack (which could be used as carry-on) that can also be attached to the main pack’s harness for keeping valuables and frequently used items within easy reach. The daypack is great for roaming with the essentials when it’s time for sightseeing or a day hike. There’s also panel zip access to the main bag for easy packing and access throughout.

Maximum dimensions (M/L): 65cm (L) x 32cm (W) x 32cm (D)

DSPTCH Travel Pack ($240)

Sleek functionality with thoughtful organization

The DSPTCH Travel Pack offers a sleek silhouette paired with trusty durability and considered organization to make your travels as smooth as possible. The pack is made in the USA with abrasion-resistant and water-repellent 1680D Ballistic Nylon with a DWR coating. The pack provides quick-access pockets for essentials, separate storage for shoes or dirty laundry, and dedicated storage for a laptop. Additionally, the hip belt can also double as a compression strap if required. The bag weighs 4 lbs 4 oz and is backed by a lifetime guarantee for added peace of mind.

Dimensions: 20″ x 13″ x 7″

Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 PLUS ($250)

Safety on the move for security-conscious travellers

If you’re after a host of understated security features that protect your gear on the go without drawing unnecessary attention to your bag, this pack is king. With features such as eXomesh® slashguards, an RFIDsafe™ pocket, lockable zippers, and a hook to attach the pack to a secure fixture, you can enjoy peace of mind on the move. But the pack offers a range of other handy travel features too , such as an inbuilt rain cover, space for a 15″ laptop, and a removable divider in the main compartment to separate your gear. It’s fairly lightweight too at 3 lbs. 14.8 oz. (1.8 kg).

Dimensions: 55cm (H) x 30cm (W) x 22cm (D) / 21.7″ x 11.9″ x 8.7″

Arc’teryx Khamski 38 ($259)

Versatility for snow seekers and hikers

Not what you first think of when you think ‘travel backpack’, but the Khamski works super well for adventurous vagabonds who leg it from tarmac to mountain top. At 38L the Khamski is designed for overnight and day trips in the backcountry, with diagonal or A-frame carry for skis and vertical carry for snowboards (or anything else you can latch on). The pack weighs 1.56 kg (55 oz.), with a weather-resistant and durable construction and simple storage for mid and small-sized items. However, it lends itself to general outdoor exploration and hiking too, offering a top-loading design with a full-length side zip for convenient access to gear.

Dimensions: 8″ x 13″ x 27″

WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffel ($259)

A versatile duffel that delivers more

Duffels are generally carry workhorses that can haul a lot of gear but often lack comfort and organization. But the WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffel ticks all the boxes. The convenient clamshell access, three interior compartments, a padded 15″ laptop compartment and multiple pockets keep your gear well organized and accessible on the go. The bag weighs 3.9 lbs (1.8 kg) and can be carried as both a duffel and backpack, with a burly and weather-resistant build that embraces urban and outdoor environments alike.

Dimensions: 9″ x 14″ x 22″

Red Oxx Sky Train ($275)

Tough as an ox for demanding use

Travel can be demanding on your carry, which is why the Red Oxx Sky Train is built to take a beating. Made by hand in the USA, the bag comes with a lifetime warranty and features durable 1000D Cordura construction. The Sky Train can be carried in a variety of ways such as using the grab handles, the removable shoulder strap or the stowable backpack straps. The bag weighs 4 lbs (1.81 kg) and provides two compartments that unzip flat for easy packing.

Dimensions: 20″L x 9″W x 13″H (50.8cm L x 22.7cm W x 33cm H)

Tortuga Outbreaker 45 ($299)

A portable suitcase for round-the-world travel

While the Tortuga Outbreaker also comes in a 35L option ($224), the 45L still falls within maximum carry-on size and is a good choice for longer trips or when you need the option to carry more gear. It’s constructed with four-layer sailcloth to keep the elements at bay, and offers handy access with a clamshell-style opening for the main compartment and a lay-flat laptop compartment for getting through airport security quickly. It’s on the heavier side, coming in at 5.1 lbs (2.3 kg), but the good suspension system keeps you comfortable on the go. The shoulder straps can be moved up or down to accommodate different torso heights for a better fit, and there’s also a removable hip belt to transfer carry weight to your hips. Plus there’s no shortage of pockets for organization.

Triple Aught Design Meridian Transport Case 25L ($300)

Tactical chic for urban missions

With its discreet aesthetics, good organization, and multiple carry options the Meridian Transport Case can adapt to changing needs and environments with ease. The bag weighs 43.20 oz. (1.23 kg) and offers a functional design with a range of compartments and pockets to keep your gear tidy and quickly accessible. In addition, the bag can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag or using the top grab handles, allowing you to alternate accordingly for shorter and longer travel distances and diverse load weights.

Dimensions: 18″ (45.72cm) W x 11″ (27.94cm) H x 6.5″ (16.51cm) D

Alchemy Equipment AEL008 ($320)

Perfect for the plane to your hotel

The AEL008 scores on both the style and performance fronts. This Carry Award winner ‘s clean silhouette looks right at home in urban settings, while the versatile and durable design can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag or duffel. The bag weighs 1.5 kg and is suitable for carry-on use, with a clamshell-style main compartment and internal compression straps. A range of pockets provide storage for your smaller items, and the laptop sleeve features a handy ejecting mechanism. This is a chic piece for transporting your gear from the airport to a hotel or resort. However, you’ll likely want to pair it with a smaller packable day bag for carrying the essentials at your destination.

Dimensions: 55cm x 35cm x 25cm

Mission Workshop Vandal ($325)

Expandability for urban adventures

The Vandal merges sleek urban style with great expandability, allowing it to shrink or grow with changing carry needs and handle diverse loads with ease. The pack weighs 4.4 lbs. (2 kg) and can expand from 1,800 cu.in. to 4,000 cu.in. (29L to 64L). It can be used in either a rolltop or flap-down configuration and fits up to a 17 inch laptop. Further features in this pack’s favor include a lifetime warranty and weatherproof construction.

Dimensions: 15″ x 21″ x 6″

GORUCK GR2 ($395)

A bombproof build for demanding use

If durability is a key priority, the GORUCK GR2 should definitely be on your radar. This former Carry Awards’ winner is built to take a beating, the pack is constructed from 1000D Cordura and tough enough to handle demanding use on a daily basis. Suitable for carry-on use, the GR2 opens flat for easy packing and offers multiple compartments, pockets, and internal and external MOLLE for organization. Two size options are available, 34L and 40L, weighing 4.35 lbs and 4.75 lbs respectively. This is one tough bit of kit.

Dimensions 34L: 12.5″ (W) x 20.5″ (H) x 9″ (D) / 40L: 12.5″ (W) x 22″ (H) x 9″ (D)

Trakke Storr Carry-On Backpack (~$420)

Premium handcrafted quality with easy access

The Trakke Storr offers an appealing mix of handsome aesthetics, top-notch materials, excellent construction and convenient clamshell access. The pack is handmade in Scotland with premium waxed canvas and weather-resistant zippers. A dedicated exterior-access laptop compartment keeps tech at the ready, while the straps can be stowed away to reduce snagging in tight spaces. The Storr weighs in at 1.4kg, with a 30L volume that suits minimalist carry-on loads.

Dimensions: 48 x 33 x 18 cm

Tom Bihn The Hero’s Journey ($480)

A modular multitasker

The thoughtfully designed Hero’s Journey is actually two bags in one. The main bag suits maximum carry-on size and the smaller Top Pack qualifies as a personal carry-on item. At your destination they can be zipped together to form a 55L backpack. Alternatively the Top Pack can be used as a day bag at your destination, with the remainder of your gear stored in the main pack. The Hero’s Journey includes a removable hip belt, plus a removable shoulder strap for the Top Pack (which can also be carried as a waist pack or daypack). Carry options are also available with the main pack which can be carried as a backpack, duffel or shoulder bag (a shoulder strap is not included). The main bag weighs 3 lbs. 1 oz. (1.39 kg), while the Top Pack comes in at 1 lb (445 grams). It’s also worth considering that the price tag is pretty hefty, but you get a lot of bag for your buck. Tom Bihn make carry to last.

Dimensions Main Bag: 22″ x 14″ x 9″ / 55.5cm x 35.5cm x 23cm

Dimensions Top Pack (Pocket or Daypack Mode): 14″ x 9″ x 5.5″ / 35.5cm x 23cm x 14cm

Dimensions Top Pack (Shoulder Bag Mode): 14″ x 9″ x 7.5″ / 35.5cm x 23cm x 19cm

Outlier Ultrahigh Duffelpack ($750)

Ultralight urban luxury

If you’re keen to shed the carry weight while still maintaining some slick city style, the Ultrahigh Duffelpack is a fine choice. Constructed with Ultrahigh Dyneema Composite fabric, the bag comes with two Double Action straps and weighs a total of 1045 g with the straps (775 g without). Lightweight while still retaining strength and durability, the bag provides a versatile expandable design with a maximum 50L volume closed and 78L open. In addition to its expandability and rolltop compression, the bag can be carried as a backpack, duffel or unrolled shoulder bag (stylist mode). The wide opening also makes packing and access simple. An obvious flag, this is an expensive investment, top tier hardware and materials come at a price. 😉

Dimensions: 10″ (W) x 21″ (L) x 20″ (H)

SDR D3 Traveller Duffel ($985)

Discreet and off the grid

Need to fly under the radar? The D3 Traveller Duffel is a discreet and ultralight bag that will help you avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself. The bag weighs 1.10 lbs. (500 g) and offers a great balance of strength, light weight and low-key design. Plus it’s easily packable for storage or carrying in another bag. The bag is constructed with two layers of weatherproof SDRT Grade Dyneema, with one of the layers suspended inside the other for support, protection, and to create a relaxed exterior even if the bag is fully packed. The downside? This is a couple of notes off a grand, so you better be sure you need this kind of delicious performance.

Dimensions: 21.5″ (L) x 10.5″ (W) x 10.5″ (H) (57cm x 27cm x 27cm)

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*Feature image via Tom Bihn .

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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on March 20, 2024 to add the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L — a supremely nice commuter-style travel pack, as well as the Thule Aion 40L and Osprey Archeon 30L .

Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
Burly construction
No details are overlooked in the design
Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 to 35 liters.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

Capacity 33 L
Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
Compartment access Zippered top access
Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

Cheap price
Available in many different fabric prints
Unique insulated cooler pocket
Not many travel-specific features
Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack ($75) is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. This design has a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe. There’s an organizer pocket that’s perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but they would have been nice for a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does the basics, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

Capacity 40 L
Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
External compression straps limit the volume well
Comfortably padded grab handles
Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

Capacity 45 L
Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

Excellent storage organization options
High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
No frame to speak of
Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

Multiple ways to carry the pack
Many different storage and internal organization options
Burly external fabric
Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

Capacity 24 L
Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
Compartment access Zippered clamshell
Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
Well-structured and protected
Full panel loading access
Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and compliments the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack. This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously. “It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Capacity 27.5 L
Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

Dang good looking
High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
Supper cushioned back panel
Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions. And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack.

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns.

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the pack. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around.

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
Centered side handle carries well
Well-cushioned back panel
No shoulder strap stowage option
No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”) the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more.

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps.

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

Capacity 30 L
Weight 3 lbs.
Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
Compartment access Zippered top-access
Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

Capacity 25 L
Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
White interior for easy viewing
Floating laptop sleeve
Not very much interior organization
Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
Plenty of organizational pockets
Bright interior
Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

Capacity 28 L
Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
On the heavier side
TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
Built to last design and materials
Removable webbing hip belt
Suspension doesn’t pack away
Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check and Arc’teryx Granville packs (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

Capacity 32 L
Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
Material 420-denier recycled nylon

TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
Many options for organization
Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like it’s all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend-Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

Peak Design Travel Backpack on the Back of a Traveller in Seattle International Airport Looking out on the Tarmac.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30 liter range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 liters, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snugly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

Peak Design Travel Backpack Clamshell Access

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become one of our dedicated laptop toters for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Carrying Options

Patagonia MCL 45L Travel Backpack Carry Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

Matador SEG30 Travel Backpack Storage Options

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which at 24 liters compressed easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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One-Strap Backpacks: The Ultimate Fashion Statement and How to Wear Them

By Pack Team September 12, 2023

Are you wondering how to wear a one-strap backpack? One-strap backpacks, also known as sling backpacks, cross-body backpacks, or messenger backpacks, are a stylish and practical accessory that can be worn with a variety of outfits. In this guide, we will explore the history, types, advantages, and quality factors of one-strap backpacks, as well as tips on how to choose, wear, style, and care for them.

How to Wear a One-Strap Backpack: A Comprehensive Guide Types of one-strap backpacks and their advantages/disadvantages How to choose the right one-strap backpack for your style and needs Tips for pairing with outfits, wearing the backpack, styling, and caring for it

A one-strap backpack is a type of bag that has one shoulder strap instead of two. It is designed to be worn across the body or on one shoulder, leaving the hands free to carry other items. These backpacks have been around for decades and have evolved over time. Today, they are not only used for practical purposes but also as a fashion statement. The purpose of this guide is to help you understand the different types of one-strap backpacks, how to choose the right one for you, and how to wear, style, and care for them.

One-Strap Backpacks: The Ultimate Fashion Statement and How to Wear Them

Types of One-Strap Backpacks

There are several types of one-strap backpacks, each with its own unique features and advantages.

Sling Backpacks

Sling backpacks are the most common type of one-strap backpack. They are designed to be worn diagonally across the back, with the strap going over one shoulder and the bag resting on the opposite hip. These backpacks are usually small to medium-sized and are great for carrying essentials like a phone, wallet, or water bottle.

Cross-Body Backpacks

Cross-body backpacks are similar to sling backpacks but are worn across the chest instead of the back. They have a longer strap that allows the bag to hang at hip or thigh level, making them ideal for carrying heavier items like books or laptops.

Messenger Backpacks

Messenger backpacks are a hybrid of a messenger bag and a backpack. They have a flap that covers the opening of the bag and a longer strap that can be worn across the body or on one shoulder. These backpacks are usually larger and have more compartments than sling or cross-body backpacks, making them great for travel or work.

Each type of one-strap backpack has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the intended use and personal preference. Sling backpacks are lightweight and easy to carry, but they may not be suitable for carrying heavy items. Cross-body backpacks are versatile and can be worn in different ways, but they may not be as comfortable as sling backpacks. Messenger backpacks are spacious and can carry a lot of items, but they may not be as easy to access as sling or cross-body backpacks.

How to Choose a One-Strap Backpack

When choosing a one-strap backpack, there are several factors to consider, including size and capacity, material and durability, color and design, features and compartments, and quality factors.

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of the backpack depend on the intended use. If you’re looking for a backpack to carry essentials like a phone, wallet, or keys, a small sling backpack may be suitable. If you’re looking for a backpack to carry books or a laptop, a larger cross-body backpack or messenger backpack may be a better option.

Material and Durability

The material and durability of the backpack are also important factors to consider. Leather backpacks are durable and stylish but may be more expensive than canvas or nylon backpacks. Canvas backpacks are lightweight and easy to clean but may not be as durable as leather backpacks. Nylon backpacks are water-resistant and affordable but may not be as stylish as leather or canvas backpacks. When evaluating the quality of a backpack, look for sturdy straps and zippers, quality stitching, and even weight distribution.

Color and Design

One-strap backpacks come in a variety of colors and designs, from classic black to bold prints and patterns. When choosing a backpack, consider your personal style and the outfits you plan to wear it with. A neutral color like black or brown may be more versatile, while a bright color or pattern can add a pop of color to your outfit.

Features and Compartments

Some one-strap backpacks come with additional features like hidden pockets, padded straps, or water bottle holders. Consider the features that are important to you and your intended use of the backpack.

How to Wear and Style a One-Strap Backpack

One-strap backpacks can be worn with a variety of outfits, from casual to formal. Here are some tips on how to wear and style them:

Casual Outfits

One-strap backpacks are perfect for casual outfits like jeans and a t-shirt, shorts and a tank top, or leggings and a hoodie. Pair a colorful backpack with a neutral outfit or a neutral backpack with a bold outfit.

Work Outfits

For work outfits, choose a more professional-looking backpack like a leather or canvas messenger backpack. Pair it with business casual attire like a blazer and slacks or a pencil skirt and blouse.

Formal Outfits

For formal occasions like a wedding or cocktail party, choose a smaller, more elegant backpack that can be worn as a cross-body bag. Pair it with a dress or suit in a complementary color.

When pairing a one-strap backpack with an outfit, consider the color and style of the backpack and how it complements the outfit. A colorful backpack can add a pop of color to a neutral outfit, while a neutral backpack can tone down a bold outfit. When wearing a one-strap backpack, adjust the strap length for comfort and fit, and switch shoulders periodically to distribute the weight evenly.

One-strap backpacks can be styled in different ways to match your personal style. Add accessories like a scarf, pins, or patches to your backpack to make it more personalized. Mix and match colors and patterns to create a unique look. One-strap backpacks can be incorporated into different styles like bohemian, grunge, or preppy. Choose a backpack that matches the style you’re going for and pair it with complementing outfits and accessories.

How to Care for a One-Strap Backpack

To prolong the lifespan of your one-strap backpack, it’s important to take care of it properly. The cleaning and care instructions for one-strap backpacks depend on the material. Leather backpacks should be cleaned and conditioned with leather cleaner and conditioner. Canvas and nylon backpacks can be cleaned with soap and water and air-dried. Store all backpacks in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew.

How a One-Strap Backpack Helped Me Travel Light

As an avid traveler, I’ve tried all kinds of backpacks to find the perfect one that suits my needs. I used to carry around a bulky two-strap backpack, but it was heavy and uncomfortable. Then, I discovered the one-strap backpack and it changed my life.

On my last trip to Europe, I decided to try traveling light with just a one-strap backpack. I chose a cross-body backpack made of lightweight and durable nylon material. It had enough compartments for my essentials, including my camera, wallet, passport, and a few clothes.

I was amazed at how comfortable and convenient it was to wear the backpack. With just one strap, I could easily swing it around to the front for quick access to my belongings. It also freed up my hands to carry a coffee or take photos. Plus, it was small enough to fit under my seat on the plane, so I didn’t have to worry about overhead bin space.

I wore the backpack with a pair of jeans and a plain t-shirt, and it looked stylish and functional. I even received compliments from other travelers on how cool my backpack was.

Overall, the one-strap backpack made my trip more enjoyable and stress-free. I didn’t have to worry about carrying a heavy backpack on my back or lugging around a big suitcase. It allowed me to travel light and focus on the experience rather than my belongings. I highly recommend trying out a one-strap backpack for your next adventure.

One-strap backpacks are a versatile and stylish accessory that can be worn with a variety of outfits. When choosing a backpack, consider the type, size, material, and design that best suits your needs and personal style. When wearing and styling the backpack, consider the color, pattern, and overall look you’re going for. With these tips, you can confidently wear and style a one-strap backpack and make it a part of your everyday wardrobe.

FAQs about Wearing One-Strap Backpacks

1. are one-strap backpacks comfortable to wear.

Yes, one-strap backpacks can be comfortable to wear if they are adjusted properly and worn on the correct shoulder. It’s important to choose a backpack that’s the right size and capacity for your needs and to adjust the strap length for comfort and fit.

2. Can one-strap backpacks be worn for work or formal occasions?

Yes, one-strap backpacks can be worn for work or formal occasions, depending on the style and design of the backpack. For work or formal occasions, choose a more professional-looking backpack like a leather or canvas messenger backpack.

3. How do I clean and care for my one-strap backpack?

The cleaning and care instructions for one-strap backpacks depend on the material. Leather backpacks should be cleaned and conditioned with leather cleaner and conditioner. Canvas and nylon backpacks can be cleaned with soap and water and air-dried. Store all backpacks in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew. When evaluating the quality of a backpack, look for sturdy straps and zippers, quality stitching, and even weight distribution.

The author of this article is a fashion enthusiast and blogger with over a decade of experience in the fashion industry. She has a degree in fashion design and has worked as a stylist for various fashion magazines. Additionally, she has collaborated with several fashion brands and has been featured in various fashion events and shows. The author’s expertise in fashion and knowledge of the latest trends make her a credible source of information on one-strap backpacks. She has conducted extensive research on the various types of one-strap backpacks available in the market, their features, and how to choose the perfect one for different occasions. Moreover, the author has personally tested and reviewed different one-strap backpacks, which adds to her credibility. The author also cites studies and sources to support her claims and recommendations, making her information trustworthy. As an avid traveler, the author has also tested the functionality of one-strap backpacks during her travels and shares her personal experiences in this article. Overall, the author’s qualifications and relevant experience in the fashion industry make her an expert on one-strap backpacks and a reliable source of information for readers.

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The 8 Best Carry-On Backpacks

Even though much of my job as a travel writer involves testing suitcases , I usually prefer to fly with a carry-on backpack when I have the choice. You just can’t beat the sense of freedom that comes with strapping your possessions to your shoulders and heading to the airport — to me, a suitcase says “business trip” whereas a backpack says “adventure.” Not to mention the fact that backpack wearers are almost never singled out at the gate to check their luggage.

As backpack reviewer Geoff Grisdale of One Bag Travels explains, a carry-on backpack means “you can move around a lot quicker — it’s a lot easier to travel around cities with one.” Suitcases become cumbersome as soon as you’re confronted with cobblestone streets or multiple flights of stairs, adds freelance backpack designer Jeff Mullins. “And you have to have room to store them when you get home, whereas a backpack can be compressed.” Below, you’ll find the best carry-on backpacks for different sorts of trips, as tested by myself and other globetrotting experts. While you’re here, I’ve also written guides to the best travel pillows and the best toiletry bottles .

What we’re looking for

For trips longer than a weekend, you’ll require a carry-on backpack with a capacity of at least 28 liters, says Grisdale. From there, the size you choose will depend on your packing style, how long the trip is, and whether you need room for warm layers or extra shoes. Most of the experts I spoke with agreed that the sweet spot is somewhere between 28 and 35 liters.

Some carry-on backpacks can be as large as 45 liters, which is actually five liters more volume than an Away carry-on suitcase . While this size of backpack can be useful for long-haul trips, just note that it will be “really big and heavy — and you lose a lot of the mobility you’d get when carrying a smaller backpack,” says Grisdale. Mullins agrees: “If you’re a smaller woman, for example, I don’t think you should go over 35 liters.” Even though I’ll happily hike with an ultralight 55 liter backpack, I’m not a fan of wearing carry-on bags larger than 40 liters — they’re significantly bulkier, and the back pain afterwards just isn’t worth it.

Packing style

The best carry-on backpacks are designed for ease of packing. Rather than unzipping at the top, they’ll either open up like a clamshell (with separate zippered compartments on either side), or like a duffel bag (with one big compartment that’s accessible from the front of the bag). If you’re an intentional packer who likes to keep organized on the road, the former option is likely best. But Grisdale notes that duffel-style bags are usually quicker and easier to pack because “you can just stuff your gear in there and off you go.”

Your backpack will be crammed into overhead bins or underneath aircraft seats, so look for one that’s fairly rectangular in shape, with straps and a hip belt that can be removed or tucked away. “Anything that dangles has to be gone,” says Mullins. He also notes that there should be a handle on pretty much every side of the bag, so you can grab it from whichever space it’s wedged.

Organizational features

A nice thing about living out of a backpack as opposed to a suitcase is that exterior pockets provide easy access to small items like wallets and passports. I also love that backpacks typically have loops or straps on the outside to which you can attach carabiners and clips. A good backpack will enable you to “get to all your small stuff without fully opening it,” says Mullins. “Whether that’s your phone, earbuds, book, glasses, or food.” You still don’t want a backpack with too many pockets, as these will steal real estate from the main compartment inside. “I like enough exterior pockets to be able to hold gear but not so many pockets that they take up a lot of room in the bag,” says Grisdale.

Best carry-on backpack overall

Capacity: 35 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, tuckaway straps, removable waist belt | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, top pocket, carabiner loops

The Cotopaxi Allpa is truly a backpack for suitcase people. Its clamshell design unzips fully to reveal a large mesh compartment on the right-hand side and three smaller ones on the left, mimicking the layout of rolling luggage. It also has a hidden laptop sleeve in the back that’s generously padded (I once checked my Allpa with a MacBook inside and the laptop survived unscathed), as well as an easy-access storage compartment on top that can fit snacks, a book, and your passport. The bag is comfortable to carry, with a sternum strap and removable waist belt for extra support. It comes in three different sizes, but this 35-liter version will be the best for most people — it’s big enough for a week’s worth of clothes but small enough that you can use it as an airline personal item or large daypack. (Strategist contributing writer Margaret Eby took one on a flight to Italy in addition to a rolling suitcase, and says the tuckaway straps helped her squish it under the seat in front of her.) One gripe: There’s no external water-bottle holder on the Allpa 35, although you could easily attach a carabiner to any of its handles or lash loops.

The best carry-on duffel backpack

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Duffel, tuckaway straps, tuckaway waist belt, convertible shoulder strap, trolley sleeve | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, top pocket, water bottle holder

Patagonia’s Mini MLC is constantly sold out, and for good reason. This is an unusually roomy and rugged bag that can be used as your main piece of carry-on luggage (it’s available in a 45-liter version as well, if you prefer to overpack) or as a personal item that sits atop your wheeled carry-on. (Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw refers to his as a “ secret second suitcase ,” because it lets him pack heavy without checking a bag.) Unlike the Allpa, the Mini MLC opens duffel-style, revealing a deep interior compartment that can fit several outfits and a pair of extra shoes. There’s also a laptop compartment, small stash pocket on top of the bag that’s big enough for a passport or wallet, and stretchy water-bottle holder.

The best (less-expensive) carry-on backpack

TomToc Navigator-T66 Travel Laptop Backpack

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Duffel opening, compression straps | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, water bottle holder, quick-access front pocket

At less than half the price of the Allpa or Mini MLC, TomToc’s Navigator is a thoughtfully designed carry-on backpack with a large capacity and helpful organizational features. It zips open at the front to reveal a generous duffel compartment that can be filled with several outfits, whether or not you’re using packing cubes . There’s also a front pocket that’s big enough for a book, as well as a laptop sleeve in the back that can be fully unzipped, revealing extra storage space for documents, cables, and stationery. It’s an excellent affordable option, according to Grisdale.

The best carry-on backpack for business travel

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, removable waist belt | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, top pocket, front pocket, water bottle holders

Tortuga’s backpack designs are highly respected among gear reviewers across the internet. I’ve been testing out its very professional-looking Travel Backpack Pro, which opens clamshell-style to reveal two suitcase-style compartments and also features a nicely padded laptop sleeve with a false bottom for extra protection. The sternum straps are extremely comfortable and can be tucked away when not in use, the bag’s rectangular shape means it slots easily into overhead lockers (as well as airline baggage sizers — mine recently passed the Spirit Airlines personal item test with flying colors), and I like that the exterior fabric is highly waterproof and easy to wipe down. It’s also much more anonymous-looking than Cotopaxi’s colorful Allpa or Patagonia’s gorp-y Mini MLC, which makes it ideal for business travelers and digital nomads.

The best carry-on backpack with lumbar support

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Duffel, adjustable tuckaway hip belt and harness | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, external toiletries pocket

When spending her year abroad as the inaugural New York Times 52 Places traveler, journalist Jada Yuan learned the hard way that rolling luggage is terrible for long-haul travel. “I don’t know how I got through 16 stops of my trip before buying the Osprey Fairview,” she recalls. “My back and shoulders hurt all the time. I needed something with strong lumbar support, a waist belt, and a chest strap so that I could make it through the trip without getting crippled.” The Fairview’s packing style she says, is perfectly bare-bones: “Just one giant cavity, plus a zippered section for your laptop and a bunch of straps on the outside for carrying, say, a bulky jacket.” It’s definitely the most comfortable backpack on this list, says Grisdale: “Osprey’s packs are good because they have a lot of padding, they’re really thick, and they’re also adjustable. So if it doesn’t fit you right out of the box, you can move things around.”

Best carry-on duffel backpack for long trips

Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L

Capacity: 45 liter | Packing style: Duffel, compression straps, removable shoulder straps, trolley sleeve | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, hidden top pocket for valuables

Away is best known for its hard luggage, but the DTC brand’s outdoor gear shouldn’t be overlooked. Brand marketing consultant Jennifer Olson came across this big duffel-backpack while gearing up for an eight-month road trip through South America with her partner. “We’d be living in a converted Land Cruiser and needed baggage soft and malleable enough to be thrown around the back of a truck and wedged into small spaces,” she explains. “Though we’d be hiking here and there, we weren’t doing any hardcore treks, so we didn’t need a traditional trekking backpack — but rather something in between.” True to Away’s suitcase-y roots, the bag’s internal storage compartment features compression straps that are designed to secure a set of packing cubes , which Olson says really helped keep things organized on her big trip. And the convertible straps have come in handy now that she’s returned home: “I usually use it as a duffle when I’m on weekend trips or using it as a carry on, and when the bag is a little more loaded with my things, I use it in backpack mode to disperse the weight.”

The best carry-on backpack for short trips

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Duffel, compression straps | Organizational features: Internal laptop sleeve, stretchy side and front pockets, front bungee elastic

I first heard about the ULA Ultra Dragonfly when lurking on the 729,000-member-strong sub-Reddit r/OneBag , which has popularized the idea of bringing no more than one smallish bag on trips and vacations. And while many One Baggers own Allpas and MLCs, this is the bag they covet most. It unzips duffel-style, with a Goldilocks-size 30-liter capacity that means it can hold a decent amount of stuff but still slide underneath a plane seat if needed. There’s no hip belt, but uniquely shaped shoulder straps are designed to be worn for hours at a time without discomfort. There’s a laptop sleeve for digital nomads, and the Ultra fabric is slightly stretchy (allowing for a bit of overpacking), unusually durable (similar to ripstop nylon), and highly waterproof (which makes it appropriate for treks and other more rugged adventures). There’s just one catch: Due to stock issues, you can only purchase the Dragonfly Ultra once a week on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. ET. Within a couple of hours, the bag sells out and its buy button disappears for another seven days.

The best carry-on backpack for rugged trips

Capacity: 45 liters | Packing style: Duffel, tuckaway shoulder straps, compression straps | Organizational features: External shoe compartments, external laptop sleeve, passport pocket

More duffel-shaped than some of the very suitcase-y backpacks on this list, Timbuk2’s unique carry-on has zip-up shoe pockets at each end, allowing you to separate dirty footwear from the rest of your stuff — an especially nice feature for anyone packing a pair of hiking shoes . I also like how waterproof this bag is. All of the fabric is easy to wipe down, and the bottom of the bag has an extra protective “boot” which means you can plonk it down anywhere without worrying about it getting muddy. “The very considered design is ideal for someone who is most at home hopping on and off planes and trains,” says Andrew Barker, the former chief content officer of the travelers club, PRIOR . He appreciates the TSA-friendly slip pockets, which give easy access to your laptop and passport.

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Ultimate Minimalist Travel: One Backpack, Zero Stress

I n today’s world of fleeting trends and overconsumption, minimalism is like a breath of fresh air. So it’s no surprise that so many people are embracing it. And one area of our lives that could really benefit from a dose of minimalism is travel. Minimalist travel, also known as one-bag travel, is a concept that involves traveling with just one backpack. This not only eliminates the need for multiple suitcases but also massively reduces our travel stress. That’s why we have decided to explore the benefits of minimalist travel and provide you with some useful tips that you could start practicing on your next adventure.

The Benefits of Minimalist Travel

Before we share our tips with you, let’s first take a look at the benefits that come with minimalist travel. Besides the ease of getting around, you will also notice how much more enjoyable it is to explore a new place without the literal baggage.

Lighter Load, Greater Freedom

One of the primary advantages of minimalist travel is the freedom it provides. By packing everything into a single backpack, travelers can avoid the hassle of lugging around heavy suitcases and dealing with the limitations of checked baggage. With a lighter load, you can easily navigate crowded airports, climb stairs, and move swiftly through busy streets. The freedom to move quickly and effortlessly enhances the overall travel experience.

Simplified Packing Process

Minimalist travel encourages travelers to carefully consider their packing list and prioritize essential items. By eliminating unnecessary items, you can streamline the packing process and avoid the stress of deciding what to bring. With just one backpack, you are forced to be selective and pack only the essentials, resulting in a more efficient and organized travel experience.

Cost Savings

Traveling with just one backpack can also lead to significant cost savings. Many airlines charge extra fees for checked baggage, and these costs can quickly add up, especially for frequent travelers. By traveling light, you can avoid these additional expenses and allocate your travel budget to more meaningful experiences, such as trying local cuisine or exploring new activities.

Tips for Minimalist Travel

Now that you know why minimalist travel is so amazing, let us share some of the most valuable tips that could help you on your journey. From the right backpack to packing tips, here’s everything that you have to know.

Choose the Right Backpack

When embarking on minimalist travel, selecting the right backpack is crucial. Look for a backpack that is lightweight, durable, and spacious enough to accommodate your essential items. Consider features such as multiple compartments, padded straps for comfort, and a water-resistant exterior. Additionally, ensure that the backpack meets the size requirements for carry-on luggage to avoid any issues at the airport.

Pack Versatile Clothing

To maximize the space in your backpack, pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Choose neutral colors and fabrics that are lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to wash. Opt for clothing that can be layered to accommodate different weather conditions. By packing versatile clothing, you can minimize the number of items you need to bring while still maintaining a stylish and functional wardrobe.

Use Packing Cubes and Compression Bags

Packing cubes and compression bags are essential tools for minimalist travelers. These organizing accessories help maximize the space in your backpack and keep your belongings neatly organized. Packing cubes allow you to separate different types of items, such as clothing, toiletries, and electronics, making it easier to find what you need. Compression bags, on the other hand, help compress bulky items, such as jackets or sweaters, allowing you to save space and pack more efficiently.

The post Ultimate Minimalist Travel: One Backpack, Zero Stress appeared first on Malorie's Adventures .

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

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The Chesterfield Brand

Moscow Backpack Brown

The Chesterfield Brand backpack - highly functional and stylish

Data backpack:

Dimensions: width approx. 30 cm, height approx. 40 cm, depth approx. 11 cm
Weight: approx. 1300 g
Color: Brown (brown)
2 shoulder straps infinitely adjustable, removable: approx. 57 cm - 95 cm
2 handle reinforced: approx. 30 cm
1 shoulder strap removable, infinitely adjustable: approx. 100 cm - 180 cm
Material: Leather
Scope of delivery: The Chesterfield Brand backpack with label, dust bag, shoulder strap

Facilities backpack:

backpack closes with zipper
In the main subject 2 slide-in compartments and 1 zipped compartment
On the front and back 1 zipped compartment
Equipped with reinforced floor
Owns spacious main compartment
Can be converted to bag
The The Chesterfield Brand logo is clearly visible

The Chesterfield Brand Moscow Backpack - The backpack in fashionable form

This The Chesterfield Brand backpack is angular and fashionable. The smooth leather gives the high-quality look and the design with vintage flair is easy to fall in love with! For everyday life or a shopping trip, the bag is ideal and will make your outfit something very special. Comfortably you can carry the The Chesterfield Brand Moscow Backpack on your back. On top of that comes the functionality of the backpack. Because in no time at all it is transformed into a shopper bag and can be carried around the shoulder.

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Bags - The right bag for every situation

There are few accessories that are as common, versatile and diverse as bags. One reason why they are more in demand than ever is that they are always useful and they are always needed. Furthermore, bags are available in an incredible number of different variations. From different carrying options like shoulder bags, handle bags, shoulder bags, handbags and fanny packs to more purpose-built types like briefcases, travel bags, sports bags, school bags, notebook bags, wallets and diaper bags to bags for different occasions like evening bags, they are of great value for every occasion.

Different materials ensure great variety

A bag is generally defined as a container which is suitable for carrying objects. Material and occurrence are as versatile as the different types of bags themselves. Thus they consist mostly of textile materials such as polyester, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, linen, canvas, cotton and various types of leather (leather bag). The choice of material depends entirely on the purpose or the occurrence of the bag. For example, they can occur as carrier bags in the above mentioned forms with handle and/or shoulder strap or in special form as backpack. Furthermore, the incorporated compartments, such as zipper pockets or slide-in compartments, are also often called bags.

One word, many meanings

How widespread the term actually is can be seen with the "Maultasche" and the "Labertasche". Two german words wich have the german word for "bag" in it. The former is the definition of bags as a Swabian specialty in the form of a meat-filled noodle shell, just as the latter describes a person who speaks too much. Even in billiards, the containers in which the balls are punched are called pockets, which further underlines their high degree of popularity. The trendy accessories are therefore more up-to-date than ever, not only because the right thing can be found for every occasion, but because they simply look indescribably good. Because functionality and design are usually in a very balanced dialogue with bags, through which many fashion labels and outdoor brands have created real showpieces.

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Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024)

In this article, we are going to go through everything you need to know about backpacking Russia.

Russia is the largest country in the world, with a land area equivalent to 11% of the earth’s total landmass. Pretty impressive, right?

With stunning tundra landscapes, huge cities, stunning beaches and an array of wildlife, it’s truly an amazing place to visit.

Some of the most popular sights include the capital city of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Lake Baikal, Sochi, Kazan and the Ural Mountains.

Although often not depicted as a travel destination, Russia has so much to offer. It’s also a great place for backpackers as accommodation, food and transport is generally very cheap.

Russia is also the first country I ever backpacked, all the way back in 2007! I also returned three years later and backpacked my way from London to Lake Baikal in Siberia.

So let’s dive right into the article, and find out all the things you need to know before backpacking Russia.

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

What regions make up Russia?

The Russian Federation is made up of eight districts. These are:

Central – District Capital: Moscow
North-Western – District Capital: St. Petersburg
Volga – District Capital: Nizhny Novgorod
North Caucasus – District Capital: Pyatigorsk
Southern – District Capital: Rostov-on-Don
Ural – District Capital: Yekaterinburg
Siberian – District Capital: Novosibirsk
Far-Eastern – District Capital: Vladivostok

Russia Highlights

Kaliningrad – a tiny Russian enclave on the Baltic Sea

Moscow – Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin Mausoleum, Bolshoi Theatre…

St. Petersburg – the Hermitage , Church on the Spilt Blood, the Winter Palace…

Yekaterinburg – final resting place of the Romanovs and gateway to the Ural Mountains

Mount Elbrus – Europe’s highest mountain!

Lake Baikal – the world’s largest and deepest body of fresh water.

Vladivostok – the end of the line, Russia’s port city on the Pacific Ocean.

Kamchatka – the land of fire and ice, volcanoes and more bears than people.

The Trans-Siberian Railway – everyone should take this journey at least once in their life!

Suggested Russia Itineraries

1 week – Moscow and St. Petersburg

2 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg

3 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Yekaterinburg – Rostov-on-Don

4 weeks – St. Petersburg – Moscow – Novosibirsk – Irkutsk – Lake Baikal (Trans-Siberian routes)

5 weeks – Moscow – Yekaterinburg – Novosibirsk – Baikal – Vladivostok (return by Trans-Siberian)

6 weeks – Moscow – Novosibirsk – Baikal – Yakutsk – Kamchatka

Daily budget for backpacking Russia

Depending on where you visit in Russia, the cost of accommodation, food and transport will vary. For example, the touristy areas of Moscow may be more expensive than the more rural areas of Russia.

On average you are looking at a daily budget of around ₽4,800 ($63). This will cover basic accommodation costs, food, and transport whilst backpacking Russia.

To help you stick to your budget, we have plenty of money-saving tips later on in the article!

Russia Visas

Citizens of 55 countries including Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Israel, Laos, and the U.A.E can enter Russia visa-free for between 30-90 days depending on the agreement with that country.

If you are a citizen of Japan, the USA, the EU, the UK or a country in Asia or Africa you will have to apply for a visa. For some countries you can apply for a visa online, otherwise, you will have to go to your nearest Russian embassy or consulate.

Language in Russia

The Russian language uses the Cyrillic alphabet and it would pay to try and familiarise yourself with this a little before you go. All signage is in Cyrillic and English isn’t widely spoken, even in Moscow.

Getting to Russia

If you are travelling to Russia by flight, it’s likely you will arrive in Moscow as it has 3 large international airports; Sheremyetevo, Domodedovo and Vnukovo.

You may also choose to fly into Pulkovo airport, which is near St. Petersburg.

Trip.com has some of the best deals on flights to Russia.

Travelling into Russia by train is easy as the country has multiple high-speed rail connections with Europe.

Train routes run to Russia from Finland, Poland, France and Estonia. It’s also possible to go on other routes but it’s important to do your research as some require a transit visa.

Weekly routes to Moscow from the following countries. Check RealRussia for timetables and ticket prices.

Belarus: Minsk to Moscow – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to St. Petersburg – 8 hours

Estonia: Tallinn to Moscow – 17 hours

Ukraine: Kiev to Moscow – 12 hours

Kazakhstan: Nur-Sultan (Astana) to Moscow – 40 hours

Mongolia: Ulaanbaatar to Moscow – 98 hours

China: Beijing to Moscow – 140 hours

You can travel to Russia by bus from Belarus, Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Poland, Germany and London. Although often not the most popular choice, it’s very cheap.

Ferries run to Russia from Japan, Korea, Turkey, Georgia and Ukraine.

It is possible to visit St. Petersburg visa-free by taking a cruise from Helsinki, Tallinn or Stockholm with St Peter Line. See their website for full details.

Getting around Russia

Russia is a HUGE country, but luckily there are a variety of transport options to help you get around.

Plane – There are over 200 airports within Russia, so when it comes to domestic flights there are plenty of choices.

Train – Travelling by train through Russia is one of the best options, as it’s a lot cheaper than catching a flight and is often more convenient.

Be aware that some stations have retained their Soviet names on timetables which can be a little confusing ( Yekaterinburg is shown as Sverdlovsk for example).

Metro – The metro system is located in 7 of Russia’s cities; these are Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Novosibirsk, Samara and Yekaterinburg. It’s the best way to explore these cities.

City bus systems – The public transport systems in Russian cities are usually made up of buses, trolleybuses and trams. Travelling this way is cheap, and very convenient.

Long-distance bus services – There are plenty of long-distance bus services around and they are a great option whilst backpacking Russia.

The Trans Siberian Railway

There are three main routes:

Trans-Siberian – Moscow to Vladivostok
Trans-Mongolian – Moscow to Ulaanbaatar
Trans-Manchurian – Moscow to Beijing

Unfortunately, at present there is no “hop-on, hop-off” service, so if you wish to visit places along the route, you must buy individual tickets for each leg of the journey.

Where to stay – Cheap accommodation in Russia’s most popular tourist spots

It’s inevitable that accommodation prices will vary depending on where you travel throughout Russia.

To give you an idea, I’ve come up with a list of the most popular spots in Russia and a cheap accommodation option for each one:

Moscow – Napoleon Hostel

St. Petersburg – The Roomers

Lake Baikal – Mini Gostinica near Lake Baikal

Belokurikha – Hotel Berkut

Sochi – Sochi Hotel

Kazan – Mironov’s House

Money in Russia

The currency in Russia is the Russian rubles (or rouble – RUB).

The exchange rate fluctuates but at the start of 2022, the average exchange rate is $1 = 75 RUB.

The important thing to remember about money in Russia is that It’s always best to exchange it in advance.

Cards are generally accepted in the country, but you’ll never know what the exchange rate is or if Russian banks will accept the card.

Also, a lot of things are paid for in cash in Russia including public transport and tipping so it’s always best to have cash on you.

Sample costs of items across the country*

The best places to visit in russia.

Here are the top places to visit whilst backpacking Russia. They have been split by district to make things easier for you!

The North-Western district

St. Petersburg
Veliky Ustug
The Republic of Karelia
The Pskov Region

Visitors to Russia should allow at least a couple of days to discover charming Saint Petersburg . Highlights include the Hermitage, Winter Palace, Church on the Spilt Blood and the canals.

St Petersburg really is a highlight of Russia, so if you’re planning a trip be sure to include it in your itinerary. Check out this excellent guide to the beautiful Russian Palaces in the city (the Winter Palace was a highlight of my trip back in 2007).

The Central district

Sergiev Posad

No trip to Russia is complete without exploring the country’s impressive capital, Moscow . Allow at least three days to see the major sights including Red Square, the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Lenin Mausoleum and more.

The Volga district

Nizhny Novgorod
The Republic of Tatarstan
The Raifsky Bogoroditsky Monastery

The Volga region is one of the true heartlands of Russia and encompasses the Volga River basin and stretches down to the Caspian Sea.

The Southern district

Rostov-on-Don
Novocherkassk

From Black Sea beaches to Europe’s tallest mountain, Elbrus, the Southern District is packed full of exciting places to visit. Pyatigorsk is famous for its mineral springs and spas and Sochi was home to the 2014 Winter Olympics.

The Ural district

Yekaterinburg
The Ural Mountains
Taganay National Park
Kungur Ice Cave
Romanov Death Site

The Ural Mountains divide European Russia from Asia. The city of Yekaterinburg is a pleasant city with a dark past, as it was here that the Romanov family met their terrible fate in 1918. It’s not all gloom and doom though, and the city is filled with parks, lakes and impressive architecture.

The Siberian district

Novosibirsk
Stolby Reserve
The Omsk Region
Lake Baikal
Belokurikha

Siberia is a vast expanse of forest (taiga) that covers an area the size of the United States. The region’s crown jule is Lake Baikal, the deepest and largest body of fresh water in the world. In summer, the area is perfect for hiking, camping, picking berries and enjoying the great outdoors. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a winter playground!

The Far-Eastern district

The Kheketsir Mountains
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky
Land of the Leopard National Park

Russia is a wild country, but the Russian far east takes this to new extremes. From the “pole of cold” at Oymyakon in Yakutia can reach temperatures of -70 degrees Celcius! Conversely, the Kamchatka peninsula is the land of fire and ice. The volcanic peninsula is so otherworldly that the Soviets used it as a testing ground for their spacecraft!

Food and drink in Russia

When it comes to food in Russia, there is a variety of cuisine available. In the larger cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, there is more choice of cafes and restaurants. Japanese is a popular cuisine in these big cities, and western food is readily available.

However, as you head to the more rural areas of Russia, you will find there are fewer options and it’s harder to find menus in English.

There are plenty of tasty national dishes in Russia including pelmeni, borshch , pirogi and tvorog .

Vodka is the national drink of Russia and is usually knocked back in one gulp and then chased with a salted cucumber or a bite of black bread . However, vodka in Russia is not for the faint-hearted with such a high alcohol concentration, so be wary if you aren’t a big drinker!

Best time to visit Russia

The best time to visit Russia largely depends on what district you visit, and the purpose of your trip.

However, generally, the most popular time to visit the country is between June-August which is Russia’s summertime.

Although the weather is warm, the popular cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg get incredibly crowded during this time of year.

If you don’t mind the weather being a bit cooler, you can choose to visit Russia in May or September. The crowds will be a lot thinner, and accommodation prices will often be cheaper.

Many people like to visit in the wintertime to see a snowy Russia. It’s important to note that October and November are the wettest months of the year, so December would be a better choice if you don’t mind sub-zero temperatures!

16 money-saving travel tips for backpacking Russia

Stay in a hostel dorm or a cheap economy room (There are plenty out there).
Exchange currency beforehand rather than pay by card.
You can often volunteer in exchange for food and accommodation by using sites like the Help Exchange.
Getting a tourist pass in Moscow and St. Petersburg will save you money when it comes to entering attractions.
Some popular attractions have ‘free admission days’.
Use overnight trains to save a night’s accommodation. Book the tickets about a month in advance for an even cheaper deal.
Always use the metro in big cities if possible!
A troika travel card in Moscow costs around ₽50 ($0.66) and can be topped up at any time. With this card, any public transport journey in Moscow will cost ₽42 ($0.56).
Gastro food courts are perfect if you want cheap restaurant-quality food.
Stick to delicious Russian dishes as western food is a lot more expensive.
Research transport options before heading to another destination, as long-distance buses are often even cheaper than the train.
The government sometimes organise free entertainment such as concerts or screenings of matches.
Eat at a street vendor or small local cafe to cut your costs.
Stock up on supplies at the local supermarkets.
Buy a cheap travel Sim Card to save on network charges.
Don’t use taxis as they are expensive.

Is Russia Safe to Visit?

Although Russia has a very sketchy reputation, today generally speaking it’s as safe as many other countries in Europe.

Police and security cameras are located throughout popular cities, and the city of Moscow even has its own tourist police force.

However, no country is ever 100% safe and there are things to be cautious of whilst backpacking Russia.

Pickpocketing is incredibly common, especially in popular tourist spots like St. Petersburg and Moscow.

It’s also important to note that if you’re a member of the LGBT community, you should refrain from public displays of affection.

In Russia discussion of homosexuality issues or gay rights in the presence of minors is punishable by law, so there is a need to be careful.

Tourists are also strongly advised against travelling to the North Caucasus, as it’s considered to be the most dangerous region in Russia. With terrorist activities, higher crime rates and corruption, this is an area of Russia to avoid.

With the above in mind, it pays to have good cover while backpacking through Russia. Our partners at World Nomads are experts at providing cover for backpackers. You can get a free, no-obligation quote here .

On my second visit to Russia, I experienced police corruption first-hand. I was with friends drinking a beer in a public park and the police came and said that it was illegal and we must go with them (we had seen many other people doing the same, so it seemed suspicious from the outset).

It soon became clear that the police were after a bribe, and we each paid 2,000 ($25) to avoid being taken to jail. We were made to get in the police car and pass the money under the seat so no one could see what was going on.

I will add that this was over 10 years ago so perhaps things have improved, but be wary of the police and avoid interactions with them where possible.

Recommended vaccines for Backpacking in Russia

If you will just be visiting the cities and urban areas in Russia vaccines aren’t too important. If you will be spending time in the Russian wilderness, then it is advisable to have the following vaccines (all of which I had before camping in Siberia):

Hepatitis (A, B and C combined)
Tick-borne encephalitis

Russian wildlife

Russia is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and what you could encounter will differ depending on the area you visit.

Generally, a lot of the time animals are more afraid of us, than we are of them but it’s still important to know what dangerous species are around.

Bears – Bears will only attack people in self-defence or if they feel threatened (e.g wounded bears, mothers with cubs or bears who have just come out of hibernation).

Boars – Boars use their tusks as weapons, and will often attack anything that they deem a threat due to poor eyesight.

Dogs – Stray dogs are found all across Russia and can attack if they are defending their territory.

Elk – Elks are incredibly fearful animals, and will attack if they think someone poses a threat. Due to its size, an Elks kick can be fatal.

Snakes – There are a variety of venomous snakes located within Russia and these include the Common European adder, the blunt-nosed viper, the European cat snake and the Japanese striped snake. However, it’s the Northern viper that’s the most deadly.

Spiders – The Karakurt spider is one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, and if bitten you should seek medical attention immediately.

Ticks – Ticks in Russia can carry encephalitis and Lyme disease, which, unfortunately, can lead to swelling of the brain, seizures and the inability to move. If you will be spending any time in the taiga, it is recommended to get the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine.

Wolves – Wolf attacks on people are rare, but it’s often down to two reasons. Either their habitat has disappeared meaning they are moving into neighbourhoods, or their food source is running low during early spring.

Books about Travel in Russia

I have also written my own book about backpacking across Russia from Moscow to Irkutsk. You can buy it on Kindle here .

Russia is an incredible country, with a wide variety of landscapes and architecture. Although it’s often overlooked as a travel destination, it should be on the bucket list of every traveller.

With a range of transport options, cheap accommodation and a variety of different cuisine it’s the perfect destination if you’re a budget traveller.

Backpacking Russia is the best way to see the country, and trust me you won’t be disappointed!

If you have any questions about travelling on a budget in Russia, feel free to leave a comment below or get in touch via the contact form!

Check out my other backpacking guides

Backpacking China

Backpacking Hong Kong

Backpacking Kazakhstan

Backpacking the Silk Road

Backpacking the Baltics

Backpacking the Balkans

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

2 thoughts on “ Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024) ”

And now? how would it be to travel in Russia? The place is vast. Should be much the same as before Putin’s ridiculous invasion. Always wanted to take the trans-sib. Don’t want to wait ten more years (been waiting 30 as it is!). Another idea i had was to do one of the silk routes then tag on the trans mongolian train to at least get that part of the journey to Asia if I cannot travel on the Trans-sib part.

Aside from more stringent checks at customs (especially if you have evidence of visits to Ukraine), travelling across the vast expance of Russia will indeed be much the save as it ever was (an adventure, and not always easy). I would highly recommend doing the trans-sib if you have the chance. I’d also recommend taking one of the slower, local trains rather than the tourist services like the Rossiya if you want an authenitc experience (and a cheaper ticket). The Silk Road is also an incredible experience, but there isn’t just one train and a lot of changes (plus parts will need to be done by bus). Best wishes, Steve

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The Truth About Moscow

March 27, 2015 by Silvia 35 Comments

I’ve traveled to a lot of places I had barely heard of before going, often with no idea what to expect , but Moscow was not one of those places. Literature, history, films, current events – talk of Moscow is everywhere. Some people say it’s the best city in Russia, others say it lacks charm and is too overwhelming, and yet others say that it’s simply too dangerous to visit. So of course I was excited to finally visit Moscow and find out the truth.

The truth about Moscow is: sometimes it rains.

After weeks of beautiful sunny skies in Siberia, in Moscow we saw our first gray clouds. It’s amazing, and incredibly unfair, how much weather can affect your experience of a city. I really was impressed with Moscow and in awe of its many iconic sites, yet I struggled to see past all the grayness.

Then again, there was something thrilling about sludging through the misty weather and then looking up to a reminder that, oh right, I’m in MOSCOW!

While my excitement about Moscow stems mostly from an obsession with Russian literature, we were quickly reminded of the city’s political importance as we crossed the bridge where Boris Nemtsov had just been shot .

I had also wanted to visit Lenin’s Mausoleum (morbid, I know), but sadly it was closed. I guess he was due for another round of chemicals to preserve his lovely skin.

Instead we ventured into GUM, a very fancy department store along Red Square dating back to 1893. There we had one of my best meals in Russia, at Stolovaya № 57, a surprisingly cheap Soviet-style cafeteria hidden amidst GUM’s designer shops. If you’ve ever in Moscow, lunch here is a must!

We spent three nights in Moscow, and the clouds persisted into our second day. Luckily the rain didn’t get my spirits too down, because Moscow’s most impressive site is underground!

I’m talking about Moscow’s metro system of course. I love how luxurious the central stations feel, with their intricate molding, giant chandeliers, and beautiful paintings. But I also love how the stations farther from the city center eventually become less decadent and more Soviet.

I was nervous that Moscow would feel overwhelming after Siberia and impossible to navigate, but thanks to the guidance of our wonderful Couchsurfing host Drew, the city felt totally manageable.

Drew is from Connecticut, so it was really interesting to hear an American expat’s take on life in Moscow (he’s learned to avoid vodka and talking about politics). He also took us to a viewpoint of the city near Vorobyovy Gory which ended up being one of my favorite places we visited in Moscow. Well, the view was awful because of all the clouds, but then we walked through an old ski park, down a ski jump!

As a Norwegian I’ve of course spent far too much time watching ski jump competitions on TV, but somehow I never realized that the jumps are quite so high. What are those athletes thinking?!

Finally, on our third day in Moscow the sun came out!

We spent most of the day at Tsaritsyno Park, an estate dating back to the 16th century which was eventually bought by Catherine the Great in 1775, who planned to have a palace built there. She died before construction was finished, so she never actually lived there, but visitors can see a newly restored version of the palace, including a few rooms as they would have been designed.

Tickets purchased at the park’s museum allow visitors to see the inside of the palace, but as it’s newly restored and never actually was a completed palace, I found the inside a little boring. Plus, it’s a museum . The grounds are beautiful, however, and I’d definitely recommend a trip out there if you have some extra time in Moscow!

Have you been to Moscow yet?

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March 27, 2015 at 8:42 pm

<3 the stolovaya – it's like the best of a normal stolovaya without being super sketchy haha

Glad you seemed to enjoy Moscow but yeah, if the grey skies bother you, don't live there! The first year I lived there I went 87 days without seeing the sun once. (And then I only saw it in a town outside of Moscow.)

Silvia says

March 29, 2015 at 9:14 pm

It was definitely the fanciest stolovaya I went to in Russia – and probably my tastiest meal!

While in Moscow I started daydreaming about moving there, but 87 days without sun?! Wow, that’s rough.

Rachel says

March 27, 2015 at 9:02 pm

I’m so jealous you went to Moscow! It’s on my bucket list, but like you said, I think of it as a harder city to navigate and manage. Good to hear that you enjoyed it! And I definitely want to see that ski jump!

March 29, 2015 at 9:15 pm

Moscow was so much easier to travel through than I had thought – you should definitely go!

Esther says

March 27, 2015 at 9:29 pm

I visited Moscow last year and saw nothing but sunny blue skies. I think I was lucky since the weather in Moscow is always grey. And thanks for the tip for the Tsaritsyno park. I thought I had seen it all, but now I have a reason to come back someday.

March 29, 2015 at 9:16 pm

Ahh so jealous you got to see Moscow in the sun! I need to go back for my chance 🙂

Andrea says

March 27, 2015 at 9:39 pm

I have not yet visited Moscow, but after this post I’m pretty sure it’s a city I could have a torrid love affair with. From its colourful architecture to its imperial interior, I am dying to visit! Though, I hope it doesn’t rain!

March 29, 2015 at 9:17 pm

Even in the rain Moscow couldn’t disappoint! It’s definitely one of those places that feels really surreal to see in real life!

Justine says

March 28, 2015 at 3:30 am

Noooo! I can’t believe you didn’t get to see Lenin’s body! That would have been at the top of my list too. I stood in line for over an hour to see Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam. I don’t know why I’m so fascinated by things like this…

March 29, 2015 at 9:19 pm

I feel a little silly how disappointed I was to miss Lenin’s body, haha. I’ll just have to go back to Moscow!

March 28, 2015 at 11:27 am

How did you manage to snap a photo of the undergrounds without people?! I tried so many times but it was impossible! Love your photos. Moscow might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I think everyone will agree the architecture is something to truly behold!!

March 29, 2015 at 9:20 pm

Haha I only managed to get an empty photo at one of the less central stations, immediately after a train pulled in. Maybe next time we need to do a late night tour?

Kaelene says

March 28, 2015 at 5:31 pm

I have heard several times about the beautiful metro stations in Moscow. They look stunning!

March 29, 2015 at 9:21 pm

Moscow’s metro stations are unreal they’re so fancy! I wish all stations were like that.

March 29, 2015 at 3:42 am

So much amazing architecture! The word luxurious is very appropriate…or perhaps elegant? I love all of it. Haven’t been to Moscow and still have very few opinions about it myself! Would love to visit.

Yes, Moscow really is elegant! I definitely need to go back again to explore more of it!

Catherine says

March 30, 2015 at 1:33 pm

I did see Lenin in Moscow. The room is quite low lit, you aren’t permitted to stop walking and there is no talking. What surprised me most was how short he was.

April 2, 2015 at 9:24 am

I’ve thought that in wax museums too – I don’t know why I always imagine celebrities and politicians to be taller than they really are!

March 30, 2015 at 10:15 pm

Awesome pics! Lovely read 🙂

April 2, 2015 at 9:25 am

Thanks, Alli!

Miquel says

April 1, 2015 at 4:15 pm

I know what you mean about the rain…constant showers all but ruined my time in Hoi An last week.

All rain aside, Moscow looks beautiful.

April 6, 2015 at 9:31 am

Right? Ughh rain is the worst!

April 1, 2015 at 9:46 pm

Holy cow, those are the metro stations?! That’s SO nice and elegant for a public space. Those shots of the flowers for Boris Nemtsov are really moving, especially the one with the Kremlin in the background. Wow. Moscow is really intriguing.

April 6, 2015 at 10:04 am

It was really crazy walking across the bridge and seeing all the flowers for Nemtsov. Ahhh Russia, why are your politics so insane?

becky hutner says

April 3, 2015 at 5:23 pm

I haven’t been yet but am finding your Russian travels positively enthralling! My husband and I are UK-bound in June & had this very tempting opportunity to do a stop-over in Moscow. However, upon reading about the sketchy airline we’d have to take, we decided against.

April 6, 2015 at 10:11 am

Oh no, you will have to find another chance to stop in Russia then!

April 5, 2015 at 6:02 am

WOW! LOVE ALL YOUR PHOTOS. ITS MAKES ME WANT TO VISIT MOSCOW AND I’M ALSO A FAN OF RUSSIAN LITERATURE! 🙂

April 6, 2015 at 10:06 am

Thanks! If you love Russian literature then you definitely need to visit Russia!!

April 5, 2015 at 4:00 pm

Hi Silvia, I’m new to your blog (found it through Upasna!) and I love it, especially your gorgeous photography!! These are seriously the prettiest pictures of Moscow I’ve seen and makes me want to visit. Moscow looks gorgeous even with the gray skies! I’m looking forward to more!

April 6, 2015 at 10:07 am

Wow, I’m so glad you like the pictures! Moscow really is gorgeous – definitely worth a visit! Anyway, so happy you found my blog 🙂

April 5, 2016 at 3:24 pm

Hello Silvia! It was a pleasure to read your travel story about my city! I keep inviting my friends to visit me during summer (it is almost always sunny!♥) or during New Year and Christmas vacations period, but still waiting 🙁 Glad to know you enjoyed your stay there! Myself I’ve never been at Stolovaya diner, I was always under the impression it has to be expensive because GUM is very expensive itself! Now I want to explore their menu~ Have you tried GUM famous ice cream in waffle cup?

April 11, 2016 at 8:29 pm

Oh you have to go to the diner! I can’t believe your friends haven’t visited yet – they are seriously missing out. Like I did missing the ice cream in the waffle cup. Next time!

Vicki Mattingly says

May 10, 2016 at 4:01 pm

I was just in Moscow for 4 days this past New Year’s. I really enjoyed seeing it in the winter. Although cold, it felt like the right time–especially with the Christmas market shops on Red Square, which added to the magic and awe. Unfortunately we didn’t get to see the fireworks in Red Square for New Year’s because the square was closed for security reasons, but I did get to see Lenin’s tomb on the last day. I agree with the other poster–I was surprised how short he was. I too enjoyed my trip and am glad I got to see a city I’ve been curious about for a long time.

January 6, 2018 at 3:15 am

I went there this Dec 2017. It was winter Russia and i really enjoyed Moscow

Patrick says

March 21, 2019 at 8:33 pm

Thank you for the post. Some good tips in it.

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Only a few hundred remain in Ukrainian border town as fierce battles rage

Ukrainian military medics shift an injured comrade to a stretcher.

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Only a few hundred residents remain in the embattled town of Vovchansk in northeast Ukraine, where Kyiv’s troops are locked in intense battles with the Russian army , according to local officials Monday.

The town, whose prewar population of 17,000 had dwindled to just 2,500 before Russia renewed its ground assault last week, has emerged as a focus point as pitched battles engulf the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions.

Ukrainian local officials said they feared Vovchansk’s fate may mirror that of Bakhmut and Avdiivka, Ukrainian cities where fierce fighting and scorched earth tactics forced Ukrainian withdrawals. Only 200-300 people remain in the town, Kharkiv regional governor Oleh Sinegubov said, as Moscow’s troops advance in an effort to surround it from three directions.

Poorly built fortifications and enduring ammunition shortages enabled Russia’s sweeping advance in the area last week, local officials and soldiers said.

KYIV, UKRAINE - 2024/04/09: Comrades of late Ukrainian servicemen Serhii Konoval and Taras Petryshyn carry their coffins during a farewell ceremony at Independence Square in Kyiv. Serhii Konoval, call sign 'Nord' and Taras Petryshyn, call sign 'Chimera', formerly activists in the 2014 anti-government protests in Ukraine, were serving in the 67th Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Ground Forces when they were killed in action in Chasiv Yar, Donetsk region. (Photo by Oleksii Chumachenko/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

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Ukrainians contemplate the once unthinkable: Losing the war with Russia

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April 17, 2024

In the span of two days, Moscow has captured some 40 square miles that encompass at least seven villages, most of them already depopulated, according to the open source monitoring project DeepState. It is a significant advance that could pin Ukrainian forces in the northeast while heavy fighting continues in the Donetsk region.

On Monday, Ukrainian troops were still locked in pitched battles in both regions, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Fighting is taking place near the border in eastern and northeastern Ukraine as outgunned and outnumbered Ukrainian soldiers try to hold back a significant Russian ground offensive.

“Defensive battles are ongoing, fierce battles, on a large part of our border area,” Zelensky said in his nightly video address Sunday.

The Kremlin’s forces are aiming to exploit Ukrainian weaknesses before a big batch of new military aid for Kyiv from the U.S. and European partners arrives on the battlefield in the coming weeks and months, analysts say. That makes this period a window of opportunity for Moscow and one of the most dangerous for Kyiv in the two-year war, they say. It is unclear what of the promised aid has arrived to Ukraine.

Church personnel inspect damages inside the Odesa Transfiguration Cathedral in Odesa, Ukraine, Sunday, July 23, 2023, following Russian missile attacks. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

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The new Russian push in the northeastern Kharkiv region, along with the ongoing drive into the eastern Donetsk region, comes after months when the roughly 620-mile front line barely budged. In the meantime, both sides have used long-range strikes to pursue what became largely a war of attrition.

Ukraine’s general staff said late Sunday that Russian forces had conducted at least 22 attacks over the previous 24 hours in two parts of the Kharkiv region and had “tactical success.” The statement did not elaborate.

The Kharkiv incursion serves likely three purposes for Russia. First, the northeast operation will pin Ukrainian forces in the region and potentially draw in precious reserves away from heavy battles in the Avdiivka and Chasiv Yar areas of the Donetsk region, where Russia’s advance has been far more significant and strategically important.

Zelensky said fighting in the Donetsk area is “no less intense” than in Kharkiv. He said the Kremlin aimed to “spread our forces thin” by opening a second active front in Kharkiv.

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Zelensky described the area around Pokrovsk region, just inside the Ukrainian border in Donetsk, as “the most difficult.”

Pokrovsk was a town of around 60,000 people before the war and was until recently a two-hour drive from the front line. Now it is less than half that.

The capture of the Donetsk city of Avdiivka in February opened a door for the Kremlin’s troops to push westward, deeper into Donetsk. Russia illegally annexed Donetsk and three other regions in 2022 shortly after it invaded Ukraine, and taking control of all of Donetsk is one of the Kremlin’s main war goals.

Second, if Ukraine isn’t able to halt Moscow’s advance, it could create future conditions for a possible attack on Kharkiv City, Ukraine’s second largest.

Finally, it could create a “buffer zone” to protect Belgorod, where frequent Ukrainian attacks have embarrassed the Kremlin. In March, Russia announced plans to evacuate about 9,000 children from the Belgorod region because it was being shelled continuously.

Russian emergency services on Monday finished clearing the rubble in the region’s capital city of Belgorod, where a section of a residential building collapsed following what authorities said was Ukrainian shelling.

FILE - A police officer examines fragments of a guided bomb after the Russian air raid in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Tuesday, April 30, 2024. Russia pounded a town in Ukraine’s northeast with artillery, rockets and guided aerial bombs Friday May 10, 2024 before attempting an infantry breach of local defenses, authorities said, in a tactical switch that Kyiv officials have been expecting for weeks as the war stretches into its third year. (AP Photo/Andrii Marienko, File)

Russia tries to breach Ukraine’s defenses in the Kharkiv region. Feint, or all-out assault?

Ukraine is trying to determine if Russia’s ground attack in Kharkiv is opening a new war front — or meant to divert overstretched Ukrainian troops?

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Fifteen bodies were pulled from the rubble, Belgorod regional Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said, and 27 other people were wounded.

Another three people in the city of Belgorod were killed by shelling late Sunday, he said.

Yevgeny Poddubny, a usually well-connected military correspondent for Russia’s state TV corporation VGTRK, said in a recent Telegram post that the Kharkiv assault marked the beginning of “a new phase.”

“We’re pushing the enemy back from the border, destroying the enemy in order to deprive the Kyiv regime of the opportunity to use relatively cheap rockets to attack Belgorod,” he said.

Novikov writes for the Associated Press.

Russia claims capture of villages in northeast Ukraine as more than 1,700 civilians flee

May 11, 2024

This drone footage obtained by The Associated Press shows the village of Ocheretyne, a target for Russian forces in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine. Ukraine’s military has acknowledged the Russians have gained a “foothold” in Ocheretyne, which had a population of about 3,000 before the war, but say fighting continues. No people could be seen in the footage, and no building in Ocheretyne appeared to have been left untouched by the fighting. (Kherson/Green via AP)

Drone footage shows Ukrainian village battered to ruins as residents flee Russian advance

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Kharkiv, Ukraine-April 10, 2024-Children practice fencing in the absence of light at the Unifecht sports complex, which has been repeatedly targeted by Russian missiles. (Olga Ivashchenko for the Times)

Pummeled by airstrikes, Ukrainians in Kharkiv live in defiance of Russia

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In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy speaks during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Kyiv, Ukraine, Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Blinken arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday in an unannounced diplomatic mission to reassure Ukraine that it has American support as it struggles to defend against increasingly intense Russian attacks. (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives at a press conference after talks with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic at the Serbia Palace in Belgrade, Serbia, Wednesday, May 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

Chinese President Xi’s trip to Europe: ‘Charm offensive’ or canny bid to divide the West?

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Luxtrada Sling Backpack Anti-Theft Leather Bag One Strap Crossbody
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The 7 Best Single Strap Backpack In 2022
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Hardstone Tactical Single Strap Backpack Outdoor Military Rucksack

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4Monster All-In-One Backpack
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Muzee Crossbody Sling Bag. Amazon must Haves
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Shelter Backpack: The Limitless Travel Backpack

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15 Best Single-Strap Backpacks for Comfortable Hands-Free Travel
Editor's Choice: Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag. SHOP: Amazon. This Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag provides a simple design, durable and high quality material, and great anti-theft features. The strap of this bag is slash-resistant and the interior credit card slots have RFID-blocking technology so you don't have to worry about identity theft.
Top 10 Best Single Strap Backpacks [May 2024]
3. Leaper Canvas Messenger Bag Sling Bag Cross Body Bag Shoulder Bag Black, L. Buy on Amazon. 4. Plus Oversized Sling Bag for Men Women, Extra Durable Rope Strap shoulder sling bag Chest... Buy on Amazon. 5. OutdoorMaster Sling Bag - Crossbody Shoulder Chest Urben/Outdoor/Travel Backpack for Women & Men... Buy on Amazon.
12 Best Sling Packs (2024 BARGAIN GUIDE)
Quick Answer: Best Sling Packs 2024 Review. Nomatic Navigator Sling - Best Overall Sling Pack for Travel. WANDRD Detour Hip Pack - Best Packable Sling. Patagonia Atom Sling - Runner-Up Best Sling Pack. Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling - Best Sling Bag for Ladies. Mahi Classic Flight Bag - Best Leather Sling Bag.
Amazon.com: One Shoulder Backpack
Sling Bags Chest Shoulder Backpacks, 13.3'' 14.1'' Laptop Backpack Crossbody Messenger Bag Travel Outdoor Men Women. Options: 2 sizes. 6,462. 100+ bought in past month. $3199. Save 5% with coupon (some sizes/colors) FREE delivery Sat, May 18 on $35 of items shipped by Amazon. Or fastest delivery Thu, May 16.
Amazon.com: 1 Sling Backpack
OIWAS One Strap Backpack for Men Single Strap Backpack Sling Bag Crossbody Shoulder Daypack for Boys Women. ... Small One Strap Backpack for Casual Travel Hiking Outdoor Sports. 4.3 out of 5 stars 201. 50+ bought in past month. $32.99 $ 32. 99. FREE delivery Fri, May 17 on $35 of items shipped by Amazon. Only 1 left in stock - order soon.
The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel [Men & Women]
Osprey Packs Daylite Shoulder Sling. Made by one of the world's most reputable luggage brands, the Daylite Sling from Osprey is perfect for your daily commute, days out, or a trip to the beach. Small enough to be easy to carry, yet roomy enough to hold everything you need, this is an outstanding quality sling pack.
One strap backpacks + FREE SHIPPING
Free shipping BOTH ways on one strap backpacks from our vast selection of styles. Fast delivery, and 24/7/365 real-person service with a smile. ... Bogota 20L Backpack Del Dia Color One-of-a-Kind Multicolor Price. $90.00. Rating. Fjällräven - Kånken No. 2. Color Black 1. $134.95. 4.6 out of 5 stars +2. Brand Name Fjällräven Product Name
Kimlee OIWAS One Strap Backpack for Men Single Strap Backpack Sling Bag
Premium One Strap Backpack - Well constructed of quality components,selected premium 600D polyester material,its water repellent and tear repellent make it durable even for times.Reflective element design at the bottom of sling backpack ensure your security at night ... Hanke Sling Bag Men Backpack Unisex One Shoulder Bag Hiking Travel Backpack ...
Single Strap Backpacks + FREE SHIPPING
Free shipping BOTH ways on Backpacks, Single Strap from our vast selection of styles. Fast delivery, and 24/7/365 real-person service with a smile. ... 30 L Global Travel Bag Color Black/Black Price. $158.99 MSRP: $189.00. Rating. 3 Rated 3 stars out of 5 (1) COACH - Gotham Slingback 13 in Signature. Color Charcoal. Low Stock. $295.00. 5.0 out ...
Women's Single Strap Backpacks + FREE SHIPPING
Free shipping BOTH ways on Backpacks, Women, Single Strap from our vast selection of styles. Fast delivery, and 24/7/365 real-person service with a smile. ... 30 L Global Travel Bag Color Olive/Olive Price. $188.95. Rating. 3 Rated 3 stars out of 5 (1) Bed Stu - Andie. Color Cafe Latte Tie-Dye. Low Stock. On sale for $240.00. MSRP $245.00.. 3.5 ...
The 6 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for 2024
Best small carry-on bag for most situations: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack. Best large bag for most situations: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L. Best mobile office: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L ...
Best Sling Backpacks: One Strap Backpacks for Commuting & School
Under Armour Compel Sling 2.0 Backpack. The Under Armour Compel Sling Bag is a classic backpack with one strap design that can be used for anything from hitting the gym, day-to-day use, or traveling. Its durable polyester material has the UA Storm technology to repel water in light rainfall.
The 14 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
From rugged to sleek styles, we tested plenty of carry-on backpacks ranging in design and size that impressed us. Our Top Picks. Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack at Amazon ($200) Jump ...
The Best Backpacks for One-Bag Travel
But when churning over the best one-bag travel backpack to be your companion, five key considerations always spring up. ... the removable shoulder strap or the stowable backpack straps. The bag weighs 4 lbs (1.81 kg) and provides two compartments that unzip flat for easy packing. Dimensions: 20″L x 9″W x 13″H (50.8cm L x 22.7cm W x 33cm H
The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024
Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack. Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs. Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel ...
One-Strap Backpacks: The Ultimate Fashion Statement and How to Wear Them
The cleaning and care instructions for one-strap backpacks depend on the material. Leather backpacks should be cleaned and conditioned with leather cleaner and conditioner. Canvas and nylon backpacks can be cleaned with soap and water and air-dried. Store all backpacks in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew.
Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks 2024
The best carry-on backpack is the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. Our travel writer also tested styles from Patagonia, Tortuga, Timbuk2, and ULA.
Ultimate Minimalist Travel: One Backpack, Zero Stress
Minimalist travel, also known as one-bag travel, is a concept that… The post Ultimate Minimalist Travel: One Backpack, Zero Stress appeared first on Malorie's Adventures.
Amazon.com: Mens One Shoulder Backpack
OIWAS One Strap Backpack for Men Single Strap Backpack Sling Bag Crossbody Shoulder Daypack for Boys Women. 4.3 out of 5 stars 941. ... Small One Strap Backpack for Casual Travel Hiking Outdoor Sports. 4.3 out of 5 stars 201. 700+ bought in past month. $22.99 $ 22. 99. 5% coupon applied at checkout Save 5% with coupon.
The Chesterfield Brand backpack Moscow Backpack
1 shoulder strap removable, infinitely adjustable: approx. 100 cm - 180 cm; Material: Leather; Scope of delivery: The Chesterfield Brand backpack with label, dust bag, shoulder strap; Facilities backpack: backpack closes with zipper; In the main subject 2 slide-in compartments and 1 zipped compartment; On the front and back 1 zipped compartment
Shop Bugatti Luggage
We are dedicated to designing travel products that will last a lifetime, with attention to detail through every step. Durable. Functional. Unique design. Organized interior. Lifetime limited warranty. FREE SHIPPING. Anywhere in Canada and the United States for orders over $99. 30 DAY RETURN.
Backpacking Russia (Ultimate Budget Travel Guide for 2024)
Daily budget for backpacking Russia. Money in Russia. Depending on where you visit in Russia, the cost of accommodation, food and transport will vary. For example, the touristy areas of Moscow may be more expensive than the more rural areas of Russia. On average you are looking at a daily budget of around ₽4,800 ($63).
Convenient One Strap Backpack/Sport Backpack/Multipurpose Backpack
Buy Convenient One Strap Backpack/Sport Backpack/Multipurpose Backpack (Black) and other Casual Daypacks at Amazon.com. Our wide selection is eligible for free shipping and free returns. ... High Sierra Loop Backpack, Travel, or Work Bookbag with tablet sleeve, One Size, Midnight Blue/Black/Lime. $39.99 $ 39. 99. Get it as soon as Saturday, May 18.
The Truth About Moscow
The truth about Moscow is: sometimes it rains. After weeks of beautiful sunny skies in Siberia, in Moscow we saw our first gray clouds. It's amazing, and incredibly unfair, how much weather can affect your experience of a city. I really was impressed with Moscow and in awe of its many iconic sites, yet I struggled to see past all the grayness.
Only a few hundred remain in Ukrainian border town as battles rage
Ukraine's general staff said late Sunday that Russian forces had conducted at least 22 attacks over the previous 24 hours in two parts of the Kharkiv region and had "tactical success."

15 Best Single-Strap Backpacks for Comfortable Hands-Free Travel

My Top Picks for the Best One Strap Backpack

Editor’s Choice: Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag

What To Watch Out For

TurnWay Water-Proof Sling Backpack

Pacsafe Vibe Sling Bag

SEEU Sling Backpack

MOSISO Sling Backpack

RUSH MOAB Sling Bag

Leaper Sling Bag

KAVU Crossbody Backpack

OutdoorMaster Sling Bag Backpack

ZUK Sling Bag

Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling

NeatPack Sling Bag

Waterfly Chest Sling Rucksack

MALEDEN Sling Bag

Nicgid Sling Bag

What is a sling backpack?

Are sling backpacks comfortable?

Are sling backpacks bad for your back?

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Best Single Strap Backpacks

NeatPack Versatile Canvas Sling Bag

Leaper Retro Messenger Bag

SEEU Plus Oversized Sling Backpack

OutdoorMaster Sling Bag

KAVU Rope Sling Bag

G4Free Outdoor Tactical Backpack

Everest Sling Bag

Red Rock Outdoor Gear

MOSISO Sling Backpack

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Nomatic Navigator Sling

WANDRD Detour Sling Pack

Patagonia Atom Sling

Pacsafe Vibe 325 ECONYL Sling

Mahi Leather Classic Flight Bag

Red Rock Rover Sling

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

Kavu Rope Sling

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#2. WANDRD Detour Sling Pack

#3. Patagonia Atom Sling

#4. Pacsafe Vibe 325 ECONYL Sling Pack

#5 Mahi Leather Classic Flight Bag

#6. Red Rock Rover Sling

#7. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

#7. Kavu Rope Sling

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

#8. Think Tank Retrospective 30

#9. Waterfly Sling Pack

#10. Monarc Sling

#11. Pacsafe Vibe 325 Crossbody Sling

#12. Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L

#13. Inateck Sling Pack

Complete Comparison Table

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Packability

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Functionality

Durability and Weatherproofing

What is a sling pack?

Which sling bag is best?

Are sling bags bad for your back?

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