6 Best Travel Backpacks for 2025: Pack Smart, Travel Light
In an era where one-bag travel is the gold standard for efficiency and adventure, choosing the right travel backpack can make or break your journey. Whether you’re hopping between cities, embarking on a multi-week trek, or just need a reliable carry-on for weekend getaways, the best backpacks blend durability, organization, and comfort without weighing you down. As of 2025, innovations like recycled materials, expandable designs, and tech-friendly pockets are redefining what a travel pack can do.
We’ve scoured expert reviews from Wirecutter, Pack Hacker, Outdoor Gear Lab, and more to curate this list of the top six travel backpacks. These picks prioritize carry-on compliance (most under 45L), weather resistance, and ergonomic support for loads up to 40 pounds. Prices range from budget-friendly under $50 to premium investments around $300, but each delivers exceptional value for frequent flyers and nomads alike.
1. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Del Dia – Best Overall
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands out as the ultimate all-rounder for 2025, earning top marks from Wirecutter and Pack Hacker for its refined design and versatility. 0 1 This suitcase-style pack opens flat like a clamshell for effortless packing, featuring mesh dividers, zippered pockets, and a dedicated laptop sleeve for up to 15-inch devices. Made from 100% recycled fabrics with a TPU coating for water resistance, it’s built to endure rough handling while keeping you organized on the go.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 35L (carry-on compliant)
- Weight: 3.5 lbs
- Padded shoulder straps and hip belt for comfort
- Lifetime warranty against defects
Pros: Intuitive organization, vibrant color options (including limited-edition Del Dia prints), and eco-friendly build.
Cons: Straps don’t tuck away for suitcase mode.
Price: $200
Best For: Urban explorers and multi-destination trips.
2. Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L – Best for One-Bag Travel
If single-bag living is your vibe, the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is a game-changer, praised by Wirecutter and Switchback Travel for its thoughtful engineering. 0 10 Designed specifically for long-haul journeys, it offers a height-adjustable harness for ergonomic fit, front-loading access, and compression straps to slim it down for flights. The sailcloth exterior shrugs off rain and scuffs, while internal pockets keep tech and toiletries sorted.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 40L (expandable)
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Removable hip belt and load lifters
- 500-denier water-resistant fabric
Pros: Exceptional back support for heavy loads, seamless airport navigation.
Cons: Bulkier when fully packed.
Price: $350
Best For: Digital nomads and extended adventures.
3. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L – Best for Photographers
Gearheads and creators will love the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, lauded by Pack Hacker and GearJunkie for its modular storage tailored to cameras and gadgets. 1 13 It expands from 35L to 45L for souvenirs, with customizable Dividers (sold separately) to secure lenses and drones. The weatherproof shell and tuckaway straps make it as sleek in a boardroom as on a trail.
Key Profiles:
- Capacity: 35-45L
- Weight: 4.8 lbs
- Theft-resistant zippers and side-access laptop pocket
- Recycled nylon canvas construction
Pros: Versatile attachments for tripods, ultra-durable zippers.
Cons: Higher price point for accessories.
Price: $300
Best For: Content creators and tech-heavy travelers.
4. Osprey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack 26+6 – Best Lightweight Option
For those dodging airline weight fees, the Osprey Daylite Expandable 26+6L is a featherweight hero, highlighted by Pack Hacker as a stocking-out favorite. 3 It stretches to 32L for overnights, with breathable mesh backpanel and a harness that stows flat for checked bag mode. Osprey’s bluesign-approved fabrics ensure sustainability without sacrificing strength.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 26-32L
- Weight: 1.5 lbs
- External hydration sleeve and key clip
- Padded 15-inch laptop compartment
Pros: Ultra-portable, comfortable for all-day wear.
Cons: Less room for bulkier items.
Price: $85
Best For: Short trips and budget-conscious commuters.
5. REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 Recycled – Best Value for Durability
REI’s Ruckpack 40 hits the sweet spot for affordability and toughness, added to Switchback Travel’s 2025 lineup for its recycled polyester build and load-hauling prowess. 10 The removable daypack doubles as a personal item, while the main pack’s U-zip opens wide for quick access. It’s got reinforced stitching and a rain cover for unpredictable weather.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 40L (with 16L daypack)
- Weight: 3.8 lbs
- Adjustable torso fit and sternum strap
- PFC-free DWR coating
Pros: Modular design, lifetime REI repair guarantee.
Cons: Fewer internal dividers than premium rivals.
Price: $199
Best For: Eco-travelers on moderate budgets.
6. Dinictis Travel Backpack – Best Budget Pick
Proving you don’t need to splurge for quality, the Dinictis Travel Backpack earns rave reviews from CNET’s travel writers for its no-frills reliability under $40. 9 11 At 40L, it fits under seats or overheads, with water-resistant nylon that hides wear from 50+ flights. Multiple compartments keep essentials handy, and it’s available in four colors for subtle style.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 40L
- Weight: 2.2 lbs
- USB charging port (battery not included)
- Anti-theft pockets
Pros: Incredibly affordable, holds up to heavy use.
Cons: Basic padding on straps.
Price: $30–$40
Best For: Frequent flyers watching their wallet.
How We Chose These Backpacks
Our selections draw from hands-on tests across Wirecutter, Pack Hacker, Outdoor Gear Lab, and GearJunkie, focusing on real-world scenarios like airport sprints and cobblestone streets. 0 1 5 13 We prioritized packs scoring high in comfort (padded harnesses), organization (multiple access points), and durability (high-denier fabrics). Ultralight options like the Osprey shine for minimalists, while expandable models like Peak Design suit souvenir shoppers.
What to Look for in a Travel Backpack
- Size & Capacity: Aim for 30–45L to meet most carry-on rules (22x14x9 inches max).
- Comfort: Padded straps, hip belts, and adjustable frames for loads over 20 lbs.
- Organization: Clamshell openings, laptop sleeves, and compression straps.
- Durability: Water-resistant materials (e.g., recycled nylon) and strong zippers.
- Extras: Eco-certifications, warranties, and versatility for hiking or commuting.
Final Thoughts
The Cotopaxi Allpa edges out as our top pick for its balance of features and fun, but your ideal pack depends on your style—lightweight for quick jaunts or modular for gear hauls. Invest in one that matches your wanderlust, and you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it. Safe journeys in 2025!
