What Are The Great Backpacks For Travel In 2024?

Embarking on a trip to Vietnam and searching for the perfect travel backpack? SIXT.VN understands the importance of a reliable and comfortable backpack for your adventures. This article explores top-notch backpacks, offering solutions for seamless travel experiences. Let’s dive into these versatile carry-ons, travel-friendly backpacks, and durable travel bags.

1. Why Choose a Backpack for Travel?

Why opt for a backpack instead of a suitcase? Backpacks offer unparalleled freedom and flexibility, essential for exploring diverse destinations like Vietnam. According to a 2023 survey by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, travelers are increasingly prioritizing authentic experiences, which often involve navigating bustling streets and rugged terrains. A backpack allows you to move with ease, keeping your hands free to capture memories and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Backpacks provide convenience, versatility, and comfort for all types of travel.

• Convenience: Easy to carry on various terrains, ideal for exploring cities and nature.
• Versatility: Suitable for short trips, long adventures, and everything in between.
• Comfort: Designed to distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your back and shoulders.

2. Key Features to Look For in Great Backpacks For Travel

What makes a travel backpack stand out? Focus on these essential features to ensure your backpack meets the demands of your journey, especially when exploring Vietnam’s diverse landscapes:

• Size and Capacity: Choose a size that complies with airline carry-on restrictions (typically around 45L) and suits the length of your trip.
• Comfort and Support: Look for adjustable shoulder straps, a padded hip belt, and a breathable back panel for comfortable carrying.
• Durability and Material: Opt for water-resistant and tear-resistant materials like ripstop nylon or Cordura to withstand the rigors of travel.
• Organization: Multiple compartments, pockets, and compression straps help keep your belongings organized and secure.
• Security: Features like lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and RFID-blocking technology can protect your valuables from theft.
• Weight: A lightweight backpack will minimize strain during long travel days.
• Accessibility: Clamshell designs and external access pockets allow for easy access to your belongings.

3. Top Backpack Recommendations for Vietnam Travel

Which backpacks are ideal for exploring Vietnam? Based on extensive research and traveler feedback, here are some of the best options:

3.1 Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Del Dia Travel Pack: Best Small Carry-On Travel Backpack For Most Situations

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Del Dia Travel Pack stands out as the best small carry-on travel backpack for most situations due to its durability, organizational features, and comfortable design.

This bag’s clamshell design makes organizing your belongings easy, and its versatile strap system allows you to carry it on your back or in your hand, offering flexibility on the move. The Allpa 35L is designed as an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week. 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. This bag has handles on three sides, 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.

Cotopaxi makes the Allpa pack with either a TPU (nylon bonded with a water-resistant polyurethane membrane) or classic nylon construction on the back of the bag. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack’s clamshell design, which has a deep main compartment on one side and two smaller organizing compartments on the other, easily keeps items separated. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper (the industry leader) runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when you unzip it. On the right side is a deep compartment that’s 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, you’ll find space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers, which are great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of them 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; doing so prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which you can stow while the bag is on your back—is good 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. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit both people who have large chests and those with small chests.

3.2 Osprey Farpoint 40

The Osprey Farpoint 40 is widely praised for its comfort, durability, and practical design. It features a zippered laptop compartment, lockable sliders on the main compartment zipper, and a stowaway back panel, making it ideal for both urban and outdoor adventures.

3.3 Tortuga Setout

Designed specifically for travel, the Tortuga Setout offers a spacious main compartment, a dedicated laptop sleeve, and a comfortable suspension system. Its lay-flat design and multiple handles make it easy to pack and carry.

3.4 Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a premium option known for its sleek design, expandable capacity, and versatile organization system. It features a clamshell opening, multiple access points, and a range of modular accessories to customize your packing experience.

3.5 Nomatic Travel Pack

The Nomatic Travel Pack is designed for minimalist travelers, offering a sleek and functional design with numerous compartments and pockets. It features a magnetic water bottle pocket, RFID-blocking security pocket, and a durable, water-resistant exterior.

4. Backpack Features for Specific Travel Needs in Vietnam

How do you choose a backpack that fits your specific travel style in Vietnam? Consider these scenarios:

• Hiking and Trekking: Look for backpacks with external attachment points for trekking poles, ice axes, and sleeping bags. A hydration reservoir sleeve is also essential for staying hydrated on the trail.
• City Exploration: Choose a backpack with a sleek design, hidden pockets, and anti-theft features to protect your belongings in crowded urban environments.
• Beach Hopping: Opt for a water-resistant backpack with a separate compartment for wet clothes and swimwear.
• Motorbike Touring: Select a compact and durable backpack with a secure harness system that won’t shift or bounce while riding.

5. Packing Tips for Your Travel Backpack

How can you maximize space and organization in your travel backpack? Follow these packing tips:

• Roll Your Clothes: Rolling saves space and minimizes wrinkles compared to folding.
• Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes help compress your clothes and keep your belongings organized.
• Pack Heavy Items Close to Your Back: This distributes weight evenly and prevents back strain.
• Utilize Empty Space: Stuff socks, underwear, and small items into shoes and other empty spaces.
• Carry Essential Items in an Easily Accessible Pocket: Keep your passport, phone, wallet, and other essentials in a front or top pocket for quick access.
• Leave Room for Souvenirs: Don’t overpack, as you’ll likely want to bring back souvenirs and gifts from your trip.

6. Ensuring Comfort While Carrying Your Backpack

How do you ensure your backpack remains comfortable throughout your journey? Follow these tips:

• Adjust the Shoulder Straps: Tighten the shoulder straps so the backpack sits snugly against your back.
• Use the Hip Belt: The hip belt should bear most of the weight, relieving pressure on your shoulders.
• Adjust the Load Lifters: These straps connect the shoulder straps to the top of the backpack and help pull the weight closer to your body.
• Take Breaks: Rest and remove your backpack periodically to prevent fatigue and discomfort.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent muscle cramps and fatigue.

7. Security Measures for Your Travel Backpack

How do you protect your belongings from theft while traveling? Implement these security measures:

• Use Lockable Zippers: Lock the main compartment zippers with small padlocks or cable ties to deter opportunistic thieves.
• Conceal Valuables: Keep your passport, wallet, and other valuables in hidden pockets or a money belt.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid leaving your backpack unattended in public places.
• Use a Cable Lock: Secure your backpack to a stationary object like a table leg or luggage rack when you’re in a crowded area.
• Consider an Anti-Theft Backpack: These backpacks feature slash-proof materials, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking technology for added security.

8. Maintaining and Cleaning Your Travel Backpack

How do you keep your travel backpack in top condition? Follow these maintenance tips:

• Empty Your Backpack After Each Trip: Remove all items and shake out any dirt or debris.
• Spot Clean Stains: Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to clean any stains or spills.
• Hand Wash Your Backpack: Submerge your backpack in a tub of lukewarm water with a mild detergent. Gently scrub the interior and exterior with a soft brush or cloth.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your backpack thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of detergent.
• Air Dry Your Backpack: Hang your backpack upside down in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely. Avoid using a dryer, as it can damage the fabric and zippers.
• Store Your Backpack Properly: Store your backpack in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

9. Backpack Accessories for Enhanced Travel Experience

What accessories can enhance your travel backpack experience? Consider these additions:

• Packing Cubes: These fabric containers help organize your clothes and compress your belongings.
• Travel Pillow: A comfortable travel pillow can make long flights and bus rides more bearable.
• Portable Charger: A portable charger ensures your electronic devices stay powered up on the go.
• Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated and reduces plastic waste.
• Travel Adapter: A universal travel adapter allows you to charge your devices in different countries.
• First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit can help you treat minor injuries and ailments while traveling.

10. Booking Travel Services with SIXT.VN for Your Vietnam Trip

Ready to explore Vietnam? SIXT.VN offers a range of services to make your trip seamless and enjoyable:

• Consultation: Let SIXT.VN assist you in mapping out the perfect travel itinerary tailored to your preferences and schedule.
• Airport Transfers: Enjoy stress-free airport transfers with SIXT.VN’s reliable and comfortable transportation services.
• Hotel Booking: Choose from a wide selection of hotels to match your budget and location preferences with SIXT.VN.
• Sightseeing Tours: Explore Hanoi and nearby regions with SIXT.VN’s expertly guided tours.
• Flight Booking: Secure the best flight deals and convenient schedules through SIXT.VN.

SIXT.VN is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring your Vietnam adventure is memorable and hassle-free. Contact SIXT.VN today to start planning your dream trip!

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358

Website: SIXT.VN

Unlock the full potential of your Vietnam adventure with SIXT.VN! From seamless airport transfers to expertly guided tours, we handle all the details so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories. Contact us today and let us tailor the perfect travel package just for you!

FAQ About Great Backpacks For Travel

1. What size backpack is best for international travel?

A 40-45 liter backpack is generally considered the best size for international travel, as it meets most airline carry-on restrictions while providing ample space for your belongings.

2. How do I choose the right travel backpack?

Consider the length of your trip, your personal preferences, and the activities you plan to participate in. Look for features like comfortable suspension, durable materials, and organized compartments.

3. What are the best travel backpack brands?

Popular travel backpack brands include Osprey, Tortuga, Peak Design, Nomatic, and Cotopaxi. Each brand offers a range of backpacks with different features and price points.

4. How do I pack a travel backpack efficiently?

Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, and pack heavy items close to your back to maximize space and distribute weight evenly.

5. How do I protect my belongings from theft while traveling?

Use lockable zippers, conceal valuables in hidden pockets, and be aware of your surroundings. Consider using a cable lock or an anti-theft backpack for added security.

6. How do I clean a travel backpack?

Empty your backpack, spot clean stains with a mild detergent, and hand wash it in lukewarm water. Air dry your backpack completely before storing it.

7. What accessories should I bring with a travel backpack?

Essential accessories include packing cubes, a travel pillow, a portable charger, a water bottle, a travel adapter, and a first aid kit.

8. How do I ensure my travel backpack is comfortable to carry?

Adjust the shoulder straps, use the hip belt, and adjust the load lifters to distribute weight evenly and prevent back strain.

9. Can I bring a travel backpack as a carry-on on an airplane?

Yes, most 40-45 liter travel backpacks meet airline carry-on restrictions. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your airline before traveling.

10. Where can I buy travel backpacks?

Travel backpacks are available at outdoor retailers, luggage stores, and online retailers like Amazon, REI, and directly from the manufacturers.