When you’re planning an adventurous trip, your life is going to change in a way you cannot imagine. The day is around the corner, and you are stressed about packing your clothes and accessories. However, have you decided where will you put all your essentials? Are you planning to take a suitcase with wheels or choose a backpack? It doesn’t seem like an important question but choosing the right piece of equipment is very important.
Traveling with a suitcase may seem easy and straightforward. However, if you’re traveling on cobbled streets and dirt roads, the suitcase is not friendly to use. Your suitcase will most probably get in your way and make you lose your mind. If the suitcase wheels get damaged, then carrying it is not a pleasant experience- plus, you’ll end up looking like a fool in front of the crowd.
Think about a quality backpack that is comfortable and easy to carry. How things will be easy as you travel without any hassle across different terrains. You can take the backpack on your flight as a carry-on and not wait for your luggage to come on the belts at the airport. Further, you can easily access different accessories from your backpack compared to a suitcase.
Crucially, when you use a backpack, your hands are free, and you can use your phone and navigate to your hotel or dorm using Google Maps. Staircases are no longer a problem, and you can easily go everywhere you desire.
If you’re still not convinced, then let me tell you that once you’ve invested in a good travel backpack, you may not require to purchase another one. A good quality travel backpack doesn’t get damaged easily and lasts for years.
TLDR: If you’re in a hurry, then Redditors recommend the backpacks listed below
- Nomatic Travel Bag -Modern Slick Backpack
- GORUCK GR2 – A Medium Sized Travel Backpack
- Tortuga Outbreaker – Best Full-Size Carry-on Backpack
- Peak Design Travel Backpack – Great Design and Versatility
Features of a Good Travel Backpack
There are several features you have to consider when selecting the right backpack. Never buy a bag based only on the brand, but take a look at important features as mentioned below to have a positive experience.
- Size- The size of a backpack is a crucial factor when selecting the best travel backpack for your journey. Each trip is different, and so is the size of the backpack that is the right choice for you. If you’re planning to go on a 2-month trip across Europe, then a 40-liter backpack is ideal as it will be comfortable and available at lower rates. If you’re planning to travel to Nepal or the French Alps, then you should go for a bigger backpack, preferably between 58 to 70 liters.
- Straps- The number of straps on your backpack is a decisive factor when selecting a backpack. Selecting a bag with a hip/waist strap is a must, as it will evenly distribute the weight on your body. The backpacks that are supportive to your body will positively impact your journey in several ways.
- Material- The material the backpack is designed with will also impact the quality and usability of the item. Polyester, leather, canvas, and nylon are the most common and best type of material. Consider where you will be traveling and make the material choice accordingly.
- Pockets- A backpack with enough pockets will allow you to have better accessibility to your wallet, passport, etc. However, having too many pockets is not good either, so select a backpack with practical and functional pockets.
- Comfort- The most important factor while selecting a backpack is comfort. You may have a beautiful backpack, but if you’re not comfortable with it, then it is not the right fit for you. Your backpack can either make your journey glamorous or sour, so choose a comfortable backpack to experience the mesmerizing thrills of the way.
Best Travel Backpack Reddit 2023
1. Nomatic Travel Bag – Modern Slick Travel Backpack
The Nomatic travel backpack has an elegant and modern design with ultimate packing efficiency. The backpack has tons of features with a good number of pockets and sleeves that allows you to store your accessories efficiently.
If you want a backpack for a business trip or you’re a digital nomad, the bag can be used for both worlds. Your laptops, passports, and other valuables are well secured in the backpack, while you look stylish on the outside.
Nomatic is one of the most popular backpack companies in the world. Their backpacks combine versatility, quality, and optimum functionality that make them stand out from the crowd. However, the backpack has a capacity of 40L, which may not be enough for travelers who are planning to go on long expeditions.
What Redditors had to say about it
u/TheNASAUnicorn- “I use a Nomatic backpack, and it’s amazing. I love its intuitive pockets and efficient main compartment with extra zippers and highly recommend it”.
u/TinKnightRisesAgain- “Absolutely, I like the backpack as it does everything. I can use it to carry my laptop, document, tech, water bottle, etc. The build quality is exceptional, and it looks really slick and doesn’t look like a kid’s backpack”.
u/realgeeeoff- “I have 3 different Nomatic bags, several notebooks, a wallet, and a watch. They’re entirely legit and are my favorite brand right now. They are all of high quality, durable, and very useful.
Highlights
- The Nomadic travel backpack is designed in sizes up to 40 liters with a weight of 4lbs 8oz.
- Adjustable waist straps
- Tarpaulin and ballistic weave material
- More than enough pockets
- Tons of room
- Looks elegant and stunning
- Modern and efficient
- Well suited for trips for 1-2 weeks.
2. GORUCK GR2 – A Medium Sized Travel Backpack
GORUCK is a simple and highly durable backpack. The backpack blurs the lines between a daypack and a travel backpack. The packs come in a variety of colors that gives them an aesthetical outlook. The backpack has minimal looks with excellent functional features.
The GORUCK backpacks are very spacious and have several pockets. If you want a tactical look, then these packs offer an excellent choice and outstanding organization.
What Redditors had to say about it
u/Outcome005– “I used the GR1 21 liters backpack for all my college time, and it is awesome. And now I use it as a work and travel backpack. You cannot mess with a GORUCK”.
u/SilkyChineseFood- “I have a GR2 and use it every day. I hike and travel all the time and get the GORUCK as hand luggage on the place. Had it for a year or more, and it still looks brand new”.
u/hackatac- “If you’re looking for the toughest bag in the market and ready to compromise to carry the extra weight, then you should buy a GORUCK backpack. I have owned the backpack for nearly 2 years and have performed 2 GORUCK challenges using it and it still stands out and is fantastic. I would say out of the 10 bags I have it carries weight on the shoulders, unlike others. I’ve put 100 pounds in the bag, and it is still comfortable”.
Highlights
- The build quality is impeccable, making the bag very reliable and versatile.
- Well protected compartments
- The zippers are buttery smooth and easy to use
- Good organization and plenty of ways to expand them
- Highly durable with a superb warranty
- Sizes up to 26 liters
- Great quality due to excellent craftsmanship
- Cordura Nylon material with YKK zippers, Paracord, and Duraflex hardware
- Plenty of compartments
- Epic warranty
3. Tortuga Outbreaker – Best Full Size Carry-on Backpack
Tortuga backpacks have become popular in the market during the past few years. The backpack is very spacious, and you can see that clearly in the main compartment. If you are traveling around the world, then you can pack plenty of clothes.
The unique design of the Tortuga backpack allows it to be opened like a suitcase, which makes it convenient over traditional backpacks. This makes managing your stuff easier due to its different compartments.
What Redditors had to say about it
U/jaymeetee- “I’ve been living on a Tortuga backpack since May 2nd, 2015. I can assure you that I am pretty happy with the Tortuga materials and quality”.
u/AdventureInAbsurdity- “Tortuga makes great backpacks, made for long-term one bagging. If you are looking for unboxing, customer service, and daily use, you can’t purchase a better product”.
U/BenThereNotYet- “I’ve owned the 45L Tortuga backpack for almost 2 years and have made dozen trans-oceanic trips around the world from last year to the beginning of this year. It is usually considered a carry-on but was once forced to gate-check it. I make sure I hide the straps on most occasions. Two years later, the bag looks brand new and has been a great investment for me”.
Highlights
- 35 to 45 liter size capacity
- X-Pac waterproof sailcloth
- Multiple pockets and compartments
- An impressive design and intuitive build
- Amazing organization
- Packs plenty of accessories and material
- Perfect lightweight travel pack
4. Peak Design Travel Backpack – Great Design and Versatility
Peak Design is known to produce unique and versatile backpacks. These packs have excellent build quality with great design. They are stylish to roam in the city while also being suited to operate in harsh terrains.
The backpack protects your equipment from rain, hail, and extreme heat due to its weatherproofing characteristics. The Peak Design backpacks have sheer toughness due to the material they’re constructed with.
What Redditors had to say about it
u/Rick_Proza- “I use the 20l Peak Design backpack for daily activities, traveling, and cycling. It is very comfortable. Sometimes when I have to walk around the city as compared to other backpacks, it is very comfortable”.
u/ParticularTune7146- “I think that the 30l backpack by Peak Design isn’t too big. Took it for 2 to 4 day trips, and the size is perfect. It may just be slightly too heavy”.
u/YoshiWithABlueShell- “I have the Peak Designs backpack and cannot recommend it enough. I have no regrets, and it is amazing. I’ve taken it on every trip since I purchased it a year ago, and it has been stellar”.
Highlights
- Great design with the excellent build quality
- Highly versatile in its functioning
- Side access and handles
- Plenty of space
- Cleverly hidden quick dry mesh back padding
- Outer canvas shell is 100% recyclable
- The backpacks have sizes up to 21 liters
- It is 400D double poly coated and is impregnated with nylon
- Excellent space and pockets
5. Osprey Airspace UNLTD – Great Hiking and Travel Backpack
Osprey Airspace UNLTD is produced by the world’s leading backpack brand. The backpack is designed with cutting-edge 3D printing technology to create a comfortable and supportive pack. The backpack is one of the most comfortable hiking packs in the market.
What Redditors had to say about it
u/Wyattr55123- “Someone spend too much company time and money to create a perfect backpack”.
u/fittpilam- “I have 4 Osprey packs and love them. I will definitely try them again if my youngest needs a bag.”
u/DirtyDan- “This is from last November, and nothing has changed. Their new bags are of great quality and still come with their All Mighty guarantee”.
Highlights
- Maximum size limit of 68 liters
- Hip, shoulder, and chest side compression straps
- Multiple pockets
- Space age material
- Internal, full peripheral frame having a 3d lumbar support
- The lid can be detached into a day pack
- Good anti-gravity suspension
- Super comfortable back support.
- Good guarantee period.
6. Deuter Aircontact – Great Travel Backpack for Hiking
A Deuter Aircontact is one of the best backpacks for hiking. The backpack has outstanding comfort, support, and breathability. They allow for great freedom of movement and have abundant space.
The backpack has a unique design and is available with different strap that supports your journey all the way. Further, the packs are designed with a superior material that makes them very reliable.
What Redditors had to say about it
u/frontfight- “Deuter Aircontact pro was my first pack. Out of the 15 packs I have, it has been the most comfortable. I utilize it generally for loads now and can definitely recommend the Deuter to be a great pack”.
u/swampwalker906- “Deuter has many years of experience making packs. I wouldn’t worry to purchase it”.
u/Hiker22- “I own an aircontact pro. I really like it as it is very comfortable even though it has heavy loads. I choose it as it is right on the back, and the build quality is pretty good”.
Highlights
- Maximum 65 liters size
- ActiveFit shoulder straps, chest straps, and VariFlex hip fins
- Robust X-frame construction
- Different types of pockets
- Designed with 20% polyester and 80% nylon
- Great ventilation
- 15% perspiration control
- A 3D AirMesh cover alongside breathable hollow chamber foam
7. Aer Travel Backpack – Wonderful Backpack for Digital Nomads
The Aer Travel backpack is a versatile travel backpack in the market. The backpacks can fit your laptop and accessories efficiently. They can be used as a daypack and made it one bag for all occasions.
The Aer Travel backpack has a unique design quality and has different pockets and zippers that allow you to stay organized. The minimalist outer design deters thieves to from burgling away the material. The internal storage is very spacious and it’s overall very reliable.
What Redditors had to say about it
u/spacemanvt- “I found the Aer Travel backpack 3 is more comfortable, and the comfort is king”.
u/PixelSquish- “Just traveled with the Aer Travel backpack to Greece, and Cyprus, from the US. Got easily on the flight as it was stuffed full”.
Highlights
- Maximum size up to 33 liters
- Designed with 1680D Cordura Ballistic nylon exterior
- Different compartments and pockets
- A compliant carry-on
- Lots of customization options
- Highly durable
- Plenty of space to work with
There are several backpacks out in the market. I’ve highlighted some backpacks with some key features that make them a viable choice in the industry. All in all, select a backpack that is comfortable for you. The last thing you would want is a backpack that rubs your shoulders or hips as you walk.
Got Your Best Carry On Backpack?
Still not sure which backpack to buy? Let me break it down. The best backpack for travel enthusiasts as per Reddit are:
- Nomatic Backpack-Modern Slick Backpack
- GORUCK Backpack- A Medium Sized Travel Backpack
- Tortuga Backpack- Best Full Size Carry-on Backpack
- Peak Design Backpacks- Great Design and Versatility
Now that you are armed with the best travel backpacks, you can enjoy your journey to the fullest.
Happy travels, my friend, on the many adventures that are set to follow.
Read Next:
Best Backpacks for High School
Last update on 2023-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Leave a Reply