What Is The Best Backpack For Traveling Europe?

Planning a trip to Europe and wondering what kind of bag to bring? The best Backpack For Traveling Europe combines comfort, functionality, and style, and SIXT.VN is here to help you find the perfect fit for your adventure. With the right travel backpack, you’ll be ready to navigate bustling city streets and charming cobblestone alleyways with ease, all while keeping your belongings safe and organized.

1. What Do I Need to Know About Travel Backpacks for Europe?

Choosing the right backpack for your European adventure is crucial for a comfortable and convenient trip. Several factors come into play, including size, weight, features, and personal preferences.

• Experience Matters: Since 2008, I’ve explored Europe extensively with a backpack, testing over 25 popular models in the last 15+ years. This guide reflects that hands-on experience.

• Comprehensive Coverage: This guide covers every feature and consideration for selecting a travel backpack tailored to your specific needs.

• Options for Every Budget: Recommendations span from budget-friendly to premium options, ensuring a great backpack for every traveler.

2. What Are the Top Travel Backpacks for Exploring Europe?

Let’s explore some of the best travel backpacks available. Ranging from approximately $100 to $300, there are options available for every budget.

2.1. Osprey Farpoint & Fairview: The Ultimate “Do-It-All” Backpack

Osprey Farpoint 40 and 55 Travel Backpacks

The Osprey Farpoint and its female-specific counterpart, the Osprey Fairview, are excellent all-around travel backpacks. The Osprey Farpoint is a top pick because it combines the comfort of a hiking-style harness with the convenience of a suitcase-style opening, making packing and carrying your belongings a breeze. It’s also lightweight, and the straps can be zipped away for worry-free checked baggage handling.

• Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 22H x 14W x 9D inches
  • Weight: 3.486 lbs
  • Price: $185
• Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 55 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 22H x 14W x 9D inches
  • Weight: 4.234 lbs
  • Price: $220

2.2. Aer Travel Pack 3: The Epitome of Minimalist & Utilitarian Design

Aer Travel Pack 3 in Italy

The Aer Travel Pack 3, updated in 2022, is a robust, minimalist 35L travel backpack with a sleek urban design and smart organization. The Aer Travel Pack 3 is stylish and functional, ideal for urban adventures. Its 35L capacity suits minimalist travelers, and it pairs perfectly with a suitcase as a carry-on.

• Aer Travel Pack 3 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 21.5″ (54.5 cm) Length, 13″ (33 cm) Width, 9″ (21.5 cm) Depth
  • Weight: 4.12 lbs
  • Price: $250

2.3. Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack: Where Design Meets Functionality

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

The Cotopaxi Allpa 42L is celebrated across the internet for good reason. Its 42L capacity meets carry-on requirements, and its stylish design sets it apart from typical travel backpacks. The bag is comfortable, durable, and well-constructed, with intelligently designed pockets for easy organization.

• Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Specs:
  • Capacity: 42L (2563 cu in)
  • Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 11″ (56 x 36 x 27cm)
  • Weight: 4lb 2oz (1871 g)
  • Material: TPU-coated 1000D polyester, 840D ballistic nylon paneling
  • Price: $220

2.4. Osprey Sojourn Porter: The Ultimate Gear-Hauling Travel Companion

Osprey Porter review – side view

The Osprey Sojourn Porter series is a reliable choice for hauling gear at an affordable price. Redesigned in 2021, this bag offers excellent improvements. While slightly less comfortable than the Farpoint/Fairview, it’s suitable for city travel and excels as a gear-hauling backpack. The Porter’s “turtle shell” shape maximizes packing space, making it perfect for urban travel.

• Osprey Sojourn Porter 30 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 19.5″ x 13″ x 10″
  • Weight: 2.8 lbs
  • Price: $165
• Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 22″ x 14″ x 11″
  • Weight: 3.4 lbs
  • Price: $185
• Osprey Sojourn Porter 65 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 25″ x 14″ x 12″
  • Weight: 3.9 lbs
  • Price: $200

2.5. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L: The Best Fully-Featured Travel Backpack

Best Carry-On Backpack | Tortuga Outbreaker

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is a do-everything travel backpack built to withstand anything you throw at it. Available in 30L and 40L, it’s robust, smartly designed, and packed with features. The Tortuga Travel Backpack includes a beefy hiking-style shoulder harness and hip belt for superior comfort. Constructed from tough, water-resistant sailcloth, it also offers extensive organization and carry-on compatibility.

• Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L Specs:
  • Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 in
  • Weight: 4.5 lbs
  • Price: $349
• Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L Specs:
  • Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 7.5 in
  • Weight: 4.0 lbs
  • Price: $325

2.6. Kelty Redwing Tactile: The Best Budget-Friendly Backpack

The Kelty Redwing Tactile backpack is an often-overlooked yet solid travel option. As a hybrid between a hiking and travel backpack, it’s comfortable and easy to pack with its quasi-suitcase opening. Available in multiple sizes and a female-specific version, it offers great versatility.

• Kelty Redwing 44 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 25″ x 15″ x 12″
  • Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz
  • Price: $125
• Kelty Redwing 32 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 22″ x 14″ x 11″
  • Weight: 2 lbs
  • Price: $100
• Kelty Redwing 40 (Women’s) Specs:
  • Dimensions: 23″ x 14″ x 12″
  • Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz
  • Price: $125

2.7. Osprey Atmos: The Best Hiking-Style Backpack

Osprey Atmos

If comfort and capacity are your top priorities, consider the Osprey Atmos or its female-specific version, the Osprey Aura. While it’s a top-loading backpack, making packing and unpacking a bit challenging, its exceptional comfort makes it ideal for long periods of wear.

• Osprey Atmos/Aura 50 Specs:
  • Dimensions: 28.35″ X 14.17″ X 14.17″ (XS), 30.71″ X 14.96″ X 15.35″ (S), 32.68″ X 14.96″ X 15.35″ (M), & 34.65″ X 14.96″ X 15.35″ (L)
  • Weight: 4.21 lbs
  • Price: $240

2.8. eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack: The Best Budget Travel Backpack

The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack is a max carry-on size backpack built for city travel. Cheaper than most travel backpacks in its size range, it has a basic shoulder harness, making it less comfortable for extended use.

• eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack Specs:
  • Dimensions: 22″ x 14″ x 9″
  • Weight: 3 lbs, 15 oz
  • Price: $100 (often on sale)
• eBags Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack Specs:
  • Dimensions: 19.5″ x 14″ x 9″
  • Weight: 3 lbs, 5 oz
  • Price: $90

2.9. Patagonia Black Hole: The Best Duffle-Style Bag

Patagonia Blackhole MLC Travel Bag

The Patagonia Blackhole isn’t technically a travel backpack; it’s a travel duffle bag. With basic backpack straps, it’s best carried as a shoulder bag. The Patagonia Blackhole bag has a cult following. This soft-sided suitcase with a shoulder strap is perfect for those who prefer not to use a backpack.

• Patagonia Blackhole MLC Specs:
  • Dimensions: 22.75″ x 18″ x 6.75″
  • Weight: 3 lbs. 5.1 oz.
  • Price: $199

3. Why Are Travel Backpacks a Great Choice for Europe?

Best Carry-On Backpacks | Osprey Farpoint

Traveling with a backpack gives you a sense of freedom, and offers a streamlined way to travel. A backpack makes you think carefully about what you bring.

• Easy Navigation: Light travel allows you to easily navigate train stations, cobblestone streets, and endless staircases.
• Avoid Fees: Traveling with a carry-on size backpack helps you avoid expensive checked bag fees and lost luggage.

4. What Should You Consider in a Travel Backpacks Buyer’s Guide?

Travel Backpack

Dozens of backpacks designed for travel are available. Some are amazing, and some are downright terrible. No single backpack is perfect for everyone, as every traveler has different needs.

4.1. Travel Backpack Sizes

Osprey Porter 46, Tortuga Setout, Aer Travel Pack, Osprey Farpoint 40, & Tortuga Travel Backpack. Backpacks are generally measured in liters (e.g. 30L, 45L, 50L, etc.). Companies measure volume differently, so Brand A’s 35L might differ from Brand B’s 35L.

travel bag template

The maximum carry-on travel backpack size is around 43-45 liters. Check airline requirements for bag dimensions. Most budget European airlines care more about weight than size. What size travel backpack is best? Here’s a guide:

Note: Trip length doesn’t necessarily correspond to backpack size, as you can do laundry on longer trips.

5. Travel Backpacks Vs. Hiking Backpacks: What Is the Difference?

travel backpacks vs hiking backpack

When choosing a backpack, you’ll encounter two main styles: travel and hiking. While many people use hiking-style bags, travel backpacks are generally more practical for urban travel.

5.1. Clamshell/Suitcase Opening vs. Top Opening Travel Backpacks

Front Opening vs Top Loading

The most noticeable difference is how the bag opens. Travel backpacks zip open like a suitcase, while hiking backpacks have a single opening at the top. Travel backpacks are easier to pack and unpack. Top-loading hiking backpacks can be a pain, as you have to pull everything out to access items.

5.2. Travel Backpack Suspension System

Travel Backpack Straps

Hiking backpacks are generally more comfortable because they’re designed to be worn for long periods. They have a more advanced shoulder harness and hip belt, and the bag sits closer to your body. However, this design isn’t as practical for travel. Some travelers prioritize comfort over practicality, so it’s a personal preference.

5.3. Travel Backpack Size & Layout

Travel backpacks tend to be boxier, shaped like a suitcase, which is the most efficient shape for packing and allows you to utilize all the space. Hiking backpacks tend to be long and skinny, making it harder to utilize space.

5.4. Travel Backpack Weight

Hiking backpacks tend to be lighter than travel backpacks because they’re usually a single “tube” without extra frills.

5.5. Final Thoughts: Travel Vs. Hiking Backpacks

Despite a few shortcomings, travel-style backpacks are more practical for urban travel. They also tend to be a little more stylish than brightly colored hiking bags.

6. What to Look For In a Travel Backpack Suspension System?

Best Travel Backpack Harness

Your bag’s comfort is largely defined by its suspension system (shoulder straps and hip belt). A more advanced harness system lets you carry more weight comfortably.

Advanced Harness vs Basic Shoulder Straps

The shoulder straps on the hiking-style backpack are positioned lower and curve up and around the shoulders, conforming to the shoulder to keep the bag from pulling away from your back. On traditional backpacks, the shoulder straps don’t conform as well, so the bag tends to pull away, straining your shoulders. Some travel backpacks come with a hip belt to distribute your bag’s weight to your hips.

Recommended Travel Backpacks With A Hiking-Style Harness:

• Osprey Farpoint and Osprey Fairview
• Tortuga Travel Backpack
• AER Travel Pack 3
• Kelty Redwing

7. Are Gender-Specific Travel Backpacks Important?

Fairview 40 and Farpoint 40

Most travel backpacks are unisex and come in one size. This is fine for most, but some backpacks come in small, medium, and large sizes. Additionally, some companies offer backpacks with female-specific designs, where the shoulder straps are shaped to fit women better.

Recommended Women-Specific Travel Backpacks:

• Kelty Redwing 40
• Osprey Fairview 40
• Osprey Fairview 55

8. What Features Should I Look for in Travel Backpack Configuration, Pockets, & Layout?

Best Travel Backpack Pockets

Most travel backpacks have one large compartment and a handful of smaller pockets for organization. Bag makers balance organization and weight, as more pockets mean more bulk.

Advanced Harness vs Basic Shoulder Straps

One or two exterior pockets are handy, especially a top exterior pocket for your phone, sunglasses, and other small items you access frequently.

9. How Important Is a Laptop Compartment in a Travel Backpack?

Best Travel Backpack Laptop Compartment

Pay attention to the laptop compartment if you’re traveling with a laptop or tablet. It should be accessible from the exterior without needing to unpack the bag. The compartment is often against your back to protect the laptop and keep the weight close.

10. What About Travel Backpack Weight & Bulk?

Fairview 40 and Farpoint 40

Most travel backpacks range from 2.5 lbs to 7 lbs+. Heavier bags tend to have more padding and pockets, while lighter bags cut back on these features and might use less durable fabric. Budget airlines are often more concerned with the weight of carry-on bags. A heavy backpack might force you to pack less to stay under weight limits.

11. What Structure and Internal Frame Do I Need in a Travel Backpack?

The best travel backpacks have some rigidity and structure to distribute the weight and keep the load tight against your body. This is achieved through a lightweight internal frame or a large plastic sheet built into the back of the bag.

12. Are Stowable Shoulder Straps & Hip Belt Necessary?

Travel Backpack Zippered Straps

While not essential, stowable shoulder straps are a great feature. They allow you to safely check the bag and stow the straps before boarding the plane, making it easier to move through aisles and place the bag in the overhead compartment.

Recommended Backpacks With Stowable Straps:

• Osprey Farpoint
• Osprey Fairview
• Osprey Porter
• Tortuga Travel Backpack
• eBags Motherlode Weekender

13. What Travel Backpack Materials/Fabrics Should I Choose?

Travel Backpack Materials

Most travel backpacks are made of synthetic material, usually nylon, because it’s lightweight and durable. Manufacturers use various impressive-sounding fabric names to convey the thickness, weight, and durability of the fabric. However, any bag mentioned in this article will be durable enough for your trip.

14. Are Sturdy Zippers a Must-Have?

Travel Backpack Zippers

Of all the things that can fail on a backpack, the zipper is probably the most common failure point. The gold standard of zipper manufacturers is YKK, so most of the best-quality bags use these. Weather-sealed zippers are also a nice feature to protect your stuff from rain.

15. Are Top and Side Handles on Travel Backpacks Useful?

Tortuga Setout Review – Handles

While not a necessity, sturdy handles on the top and side of the bag are helpful when carrying your bag on narrow plane or train aisles, or moving your bag without having to put it on.

16. How Important Is Weather Resistance in a Travel Backpack?

Travel Backpack Rain

Weather resistance isn’t too crucial, especially in Europe, where heavy downpours are unlikely. While it’s nice when backpacks take steps to keep the elements out, buying a cheap rain cover is a better option if you’re worried about protecting your backpack from the rain.

Note: No bag is fully “waterproof,” but some are more water-resistant than others.

17. What About Backpack Style and Aesthetics?

Travel Backpack Style

Travel backpacks come in various styles—some are sleek and urban, while others are full-on outdoorsy. Cooler-looking backpacks tend to be less comfortable than hiking-style backpacks.

18. What Are Travel Backpack Prices?

Well-made travel backpacks aren’t cheap, and some are downright expensive. Expect to spend a minimum of around $140, but some bags cost $350+. If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying used or checking out REI Garage for closeout deals.

19. How To Match Your Backpack To Your Travel Style?

Travel Backpacks Guide

Knowing your travel style is crucial when buying a travel backpack. Different bags are designed for different uses. For example:

• If you plan on using both a backpack and a suitcase, your backpack can be smaller.
• For business travel, a sleeker and more stylish bag is preferable.
• If you’re just visiting one or two cities, you might not need a large backpack.
• Barebones minimalist travelers should look for a sleek and utilitarian backpack.
• With easy access to a washer and dryer, consider packing less and using a smaller backpack.
• Traveling in winter requires a slightly bigger bag for bulky items.
• If you’re a fashionista with many clothes but plan on using Uber/taxis, get a bigger backpack.
• Traveling somewhere requiring long periods of backpack wearing? Consider a hiking-style backpack.
• If you have a bad back, consider a suitcase.

20. What Are the Top Tips For Packing Your Travel Backpack Efficiently?

Packing cubes

Regardless of the backpack you choose, use packing cubes to compartmentalize your clothes and keep everything accessible.

21. How Can SIXT.VN Enhance Your European Travel Experience?

At SIXT.VN, we understand the challenges international travelers face when planning a trip to Vietnam. Language barriers, logistical complexities, and the need for reliable services can make the process daunting. That’s why we offer a comprehensive suite of travel solutions designed to make your visit seamless and enjoyable.

• Personalized Trip Planning: Our expert travel consultants work with you to create a customized itinerary that aligns with your interests, budget, and time constraints. Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, cultural experiences, or natural beauty, we ensure your trip is perfectly tailored.
• Safe and Reliable Airport Transfers: Start your trip stress-free with our professional airport transfer services. Our drivers are punctual, courteous, and knowledgeable about Hanoi, ensuring you reach your accommodation comfortably and efficiently.
• Wide Range of Accommodation Options: We partner with a diverse range of hotels to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, we help you find the perfect place to stay.
• Guided Tours to Iconic Landmarks: Explore Hanoi’s top attractions with our expert-led tours. Our knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and culture of each site, making your visit both educational and memorable.
• Efficient Flight Booking Services: We assist you in booking flights at the best prices and with convenient schedules, taking the hassle out of travel arrangements.
• Expert-Led Hanoi Tours: Discover the hidden gems of Hanoi with our specialized tour packages. Whether you’re interested in street food tours, historical explorations, or cultural immersions, we have something for everyone.

22. Ready to Start Your Adventure? Contact SIXT.VN Today

Don’t let the complexities of travel planning hold you back from experiencing the beauty and excitement of Hanoi. Contact SIXT.VN today to discover how we can make your trip seamless, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

• Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
• Website: SIXT.VN

Let us take care of the details so you can focus on creating lasting memories in Vietnam.

23. FAQs About Travel Backpacks for Europe

23.1. What size backpack is best for traveling in Europe?
For most trips, a 40-50L backpack is ideal, balancing capacity and carry-on compliance.

23.2. What are the key features to look for in a travel backpack?
Look for a comfortable suspension system, suitcase-style opening, durable materials, and stowable straps.

23.3. Are hiking backpacks suitable for travel?
While usable, travel backpacks are generally more practical for urban travel due to their suitcase-style opening and organization.

23.4. How important is weather resistance in a travel backpack?
While helpful, a rain cover provides sufficient protection in most European climates.

23.5. What are the best budget-friendly travel backpacks?
The Kelty Redwing and eBags Mother Lode are great budget-friendly options.

23.6. Should I get a gender-specific travel backpack?
Women may prefer female-specific designs for a better fit, but unisex options work well for many.

23.7. How can I pack efficiently with a travel backpack?
Use packing cubes to organize your clothes and maximize space.

23.8. What is the difference between liters and dimensions in backpack sizing?
Liters measure the total volume, while dimensions measure the physical size of the backpack.

23.9. Are external pockets important in a travel backpack?
External pockets provide easy access to essentials like phones, sunglasses, and water bottles.

23.10. Why should I choose a travel backpack over a suitcase for European travel?
Travel backpacks offer greater mobility and flexibility, especially in cities with cobblestone streets and stairs.