12 Best Travel Backpacks for Your 2025 Vacations

This 28L backpack might be smaller, but it has a bounty of straps, zips, and expandable pockets to make use of every inch. The large laptop sleeve can fit a 15.6-inch laptop, while the smaller pocket is the perfect size for an iPad, Kindle, or Nintendo Switch. Compression straps and a hidden shoe compartment make this affordable option a total winner. Plus, it’s even machine washable! With a 4.9-star average rating from over 1,500 reviews, we can see why travelers love it.

The award-winning travel backpack from Able Carry comes in two sizes—30L and a slightly larger 32L capacity. They thought of everything with this one, from thick shoulder straps and a ventilated back pad to water-resistant materials, a hanger hook, and lockable zippers. “I’m a perfectionist in many ways, and have been searching for a bag that’s up to my high standards for a while now,” writes one reviewer. “The Max backpack checks every box…This is a well thought out bag in every way!”

It’s all in the details with the popular Fjallraven Ulvö backpack. Some of the best include a spacious main compartment divided into two sections, a padded laptop pocket, and their signature waterproof, durable Bergshell fabric made of 100% recycled polyamide. This backpack is perfect for those who love adventure.

There are several well-reviewed North Face travel backpacks available, but this one’s especially good if you’re traveling with multiple electronics. The 16-inch laptop sleeve is padded and fleece-lined to ensure your computer is safe, while the large external pockets have enough room for your headphones and chargers.

There are so many reasons why this BAGSMART travel backpack is great for international travel, starting with its lie-flat design and expandable, large-capacity build. This backpack can store a whopping three to five days worth of clothes, and even has a built-in elastic band to help compress your items inside. It’s also designed to meet the carry-on size limit of most airlines, so you can travel easy.

Made out of recycled plastic water bottles, the BÉIS travel backpack comes with a special pocket for your own reusable one—so you’ll never have to worry about losing it (or getting thirsty) on your trip. Another cool feature? It’s expandable, meaning there’s enough extra space for all those souvenirs and other trinkets, which makes it one of the best large travel backpacks too.

Award-winning and beloved for its high-quality materials and thoughtful design, the travel backpack from Peak Design comes highly recommended—especially for digital nomads and photographers. “It is not only a high quality camera backpack, but it is also a functional daily carrier and travel bag,” writes one reviewer. “Highly recommend it to digital nomads who are looking for a multi purpose backpack that will last forever.”

Need something to use as your daily work bag after the big trip is over? Dagne Dover’s popular travel backpack is a great pick for such. The stylish, minimalist design isn’t as clunky or heavy as some of the other bags specifically built for travel, and it’s made with a neoprene fabric that’s water-resistant and hand-washable. It’s ideal for an everyday bag that might see a lot of use, and potentially messy situations.

As popular as their suitcases are with travelers, it’s not surprising that the Away travel backpack is another win for the brand. But what makes this one of the best carry-on backpacks for international travel? The removable padded straps can convert the backpack into a duffle instantly, and standout features include an easy-access exterior pocket for travel essentials; water bottle pocket; interior compression straps; and a trolley sleeve, to name a few.

Over 80% of Amazon customers who bought this travel bag gave it a glowing five-star review, with many saying it’s well worth the (under $40!) price. “The design of the bag is functional and easy-to-get-into on the go,” wrote one. “The fabric is nice and looks finished and well-made; it was also easy to wipe clean.”

This travel backpack is made with a durable, recycled material that’s so lightweight, it won’t strain your back after a long day at the airport. There’s also a 3D foam back panel and contoured shoulder straps for ergonomic comfort when breezing through the airport. “The quality of the material is excellent, and it feels very durable. The padded shoulder straps and back panel provide great comfort, even when the backpack is fully loaded,” wrote one happy customer in their review.

In addition to its many airport-friendly features—from a luggage trolley sleeve to its padded laptop pocket—this Calpak travel backpack also stands out for its style. It comes in several different color options, so you can easily match it to your existing luggage. Or instead, have a little fun and pick one of their more bold colorways, like Amethyst or Juniper.