BEST TRAVEL BACKPACKS
When it comes to backpacking, the right pack can make or break your adventure. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend hike or embarking on a multi-week journey across continents, having a comfortable, durable, and functional backpack is essential. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best backpack options from three leading brands in the outdoor world: Osprey, Mountain Warehouse, and The North Face. Each brand offers fantastic options, whether you’re looking for a large, multi-day pack or a versatile day pack for short excursions.
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Osprey backpacks
Osprey has built a reputation for creating high-performance, ergonomic backpacks for serious backpackers. Known for their innovative design and attention to comfort, Osprey packs are often the top choice for long-haul trekkers. Their products feature superior suspension systems, which help evenly distribute weight and reduce strain on your back.
Osprey Europe Men’s Farpoint 70 Travel Pack: The Ultimate Travel Companion
For backpackers who need a versatile pack that can handle both trekking and travel, the Osprey Europe Men’s Farpoint 70 Travel Pack is an excellent choice. With a sleek design and a perfect balance of comfort and functionality, this pack is tailored for the modern traveler who needs space, organization, and ease of movement. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains, navigating bustling cities, or heading to remote destinations, the Farpoint 70 has got you covered.
Key Features:
- 70L capacity with a detachable 24L daypack for extra versatility
- Adjustable harness and hip belt for a personalized fit, ensuring comfort even during long hours of wear
- Panel-loading design for easy packing and organization of your gear
- AirScape backpanel with foam ridges for excellent ventilation and comfort
- Multiple access points (main compartment, front zipper, and daypack) for easy organization and retrieval
- Durable construction with high-quality materials that can withstand rugged travel and outdoor conditions
The Osprey Farpoint 70 is ideal for travelers who need a reliable and comfortable pack for both urban exploration and outdoor adventures, making it a top choice for backpackers who want one bag that can do it all.
Check out the Osprey Europe Men’s Farpoint 70 Travel Pack here.
Osprey Aether Plus 70 (for Multi-Day Treks)
For those venturing out on extended backpacking trips, the Osprey Aether Plus 70 is a standout choice. Designed with Osprey’s Anti-Gravity (AG) suspension system, it provides an unparalleled level of comfort, especially when carrying heavy loads. The ventilated back panel and adjustable harness ensure that air circulates to keep you cool, even on the hottest days. With a 70-liter capacity, it offers ample space for all your gear, and it has a wide range of pockets to help you stay organized on the trail.
Key Features:
- Anti-Gravity suspension for better weight distribution
- Adjustable torso length for a customized fit
- Large capacity with multiple compartments for organization
- Hydration reservoir sleeve
Daypack Option: Osprey Europe Unisex Daylite Plus
The Osprey Daylite Plus is an ideal option for backpackers who want a lightweight, easy-to-carry pack for day hikes or excursions during longer travels. The design is sleek and simple, yet very functional with ample pockets for small items like water bottles, snacks, and electronics.
Key Features:
- Comfortable Fit: With a breathable backpanel and padded shoulder straps, this daypack is comfortable for all-day use.
- Lightweight: Weighs only 0.5 kg, so it’s easy to carry when you’re out sightseeing or hiking.
- Versatile: Compatible with several Osprey backpacks for added functionality when you need extra space for a quick day trip.
- Capacity: 20L
The Osprey Daylite Plus is an ideal option for backpackers who want a lightweight, easy-to-carry pack for day hikes or excursions during longer travels. The design is sleek and simple, yet very functional with ample pockets for small items like water bottles, snacks, and electronics.
Check out Osprey Europe Unisex Daylite Plus here.
If you’d like to check out all Osprey backpack options on Amazon click here.
Mountain Warehouse backpacks
Mountain Warehouse is a great brand for travelers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality. Known for offering reliable outdoor gear at affordable prices, their backpacks are perfect for those who need practical, no-frills travel companions.
Mountain Warehouse Traveller 60 + 20L Rucksack (Budget Friendly)
The Mountain Warehouse Traveller 60 + 20L Rucksack is a spacious and versatile option for backpackers. With a 60L main compartment and a detachable 20L daypack, it’s perfect for those who need extra storage and flexibility for both long trips and daily excursions.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 60L main compartment and a 20L detachable daypack for short trips or hikes.
- Comfort: Padded, adjustable shoulder straps and waist belt, plus a breathable back panel for comfort on long days.
- Durability: Water-resistant material with a rain cover to protect your gear in wet conditions.
- Organization: Multiple compartments, including a laptop sleeve and side pockets for easy access to essentials.
The Traveller 60 + 20L Rucksack offers excellent value with its durable build, comfortable fit, and the convenience of a removable daypack. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious backpackers who want space, flexibility, and functionality for their adventures.
Check out the Mountain Warehouse Traveller 60 + 20L Rucksack here.
Mountain Warehouse Voyager 50L Wheelie Rucksack (To Cruise)
The Mountain Warehouse Voyager 50L Wheelie Rucksack is an ideal choice for travellers who want the convenience of a wheeled bag with the versatility of a rucksack. Perfect for those heading on longer trips or multi-destination journeys, this 50L bag combines the ease of rolling luggage with the comfort and practicality of a backpack.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 50L main compartment with ample space for your clothes, gear, and essentials.
- Wheeled Design: The rucksack features smooth-rolling wheels and a telescoping handle, allowing you to easily wheel it through airports or across urban landscapes.
- Convertible Design: When you need to navigate rougher terrain, simply hide the wheels and shoulder straps to wear it as a traditional backpack.
- Durability: Made from tough, water-resistant materials to withstand travel conditions and protect your belongings.
- Organization: Multiple compartments, including front and side pockets, for easy access to smaller items like your toiletries, passport, and chargers.
Daypack Option: Mountain Warehouse Peregrine 30L Backpack
The Mountain Warehouse Peregrine 30L Backpack is a versatile, lightweight daypack designed for travellers who need a reliable pack for short trips, hiking, or urban adventures. With a 30L capacity, it offers plenty of space for essentials while remaining compact enough to carry comfortably throughout the day.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 30L, offering enough space for a change of clothes, snacks, a water bottle, and other essentials for day hikes or city outings.
- Comfortable Fit: The padded shoulder straps and adjustable chest and waist straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit, even during longer walks.
- Durability: Made from tough, water-resistant material to protect your gear in various weather conditions.
- Practical Design: Multiple pockets, including side mesh pockets for water bottles, a front zip pocket for quick-access items, and a main compartment with ample storage space.
- Lightweight: At just 0.5 kg, it’s easy to carry all day without weighing you down.
Check out the Peregrine 30L Backpack here.
If you’d like to check out the Mountain Warehouse brand click here.
North Face backpacks
Known for its rugged, high-quality outdoor gear, The North Face produces backpacks that stand up to both extreme weather and rough terrain, offering excellent durability and performance. Their backpacks are a bit more premium, often favored by both outdoor enthusiasts and urban adventurers.
Daypack Option: THE NORTH FACE Unisex Borealis Classic Backpack
The The North Face Unisex Borealis Classic Backpack is a stylish, highly functional daypack designed for those who need a versatile, comfortable bag for both urban and outdoor adventures. With its ergonomic design and ample storage, it’s perfect for everything from daily commuting to weekend hikes.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 28L, providing enough space for a laptop, water bottle, snacks, and other essentials for a day out.
- Comfort: The FlexVent suspension system features padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and a mesh hip belt for extra comfort and support during long periods of wear.
- Durability: Made with durable, water-repellent fabric to withstand the elements and keep your gear safe and dry.
- Organized Storage: The Borealis features a dedicated laptop sleeve, a large main compartment, a front zip pocket with an internal organization panel, and side mesh pockets for easy access to your water bottle or small items.
- Versatility: Ideal for a variety of activities, from hiking trails to urban exploration or even travel, offering a sleek design that fits seamlessly in both outdoor and city environments.
THE NORTH FACE Gilman Duffel, Durable Sports Bag
While the The North Face Gilman Duffel is not your typical backpacker’s backpack, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who need a tough, spacious, and highly versatile bag for their adventures. Designed with durability and practicality in mind, this duffel bag can handle both travel and outdoor activities while offering features that make it a strong alternative to the standard rucksack.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 50L, offering ample room for clothes, gear, and travel essentials, with enough space for a longer trip or weekend getaway.
- Durable Construction: Made with tough, water-resistant 100% recycled fabric, the Gilman Duffel is built to withstand rough conditions, whether you’re tossing it in an airport, throwing it in the back of a car, or using it for a camping trip.
- Versatile Carrying Options: Unlike traditional backpacks, this duffel bag features padded, adjustable shoulder straps, allowing you to carry it like a backpack for hands-free convenience. You can also grab the top handles and carry it like a traditional duffel when needed.
- Organization: The main compartment opens wide, making it easy to pack and access your gear. Internal mesh pockets and a zippered side pocket help keep smaller items organized and easy to reach.
- Weather-Resistant: The durable, water-repellent finish keeps your gear safe and dry, even when traveling through unpredictable weather.
Check out the The North Face Gilman Duffel here.
Conclusion
Choosing the right backpack can make or break your travel experience. Whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway, a long-term backpacking adventure, or just need a daypack for daily exploration, finding the right fit for your needs is essential. The best travel backpacks balance comfort, durability, and organization, with the right amount of space for your gear and easy access to your essentials.
If you’re unsure where to start, be sure to check out our blog post, How to Choose the Right Backpack for more tips on selecting the perfect pack based on your travel style and preferences. With the right backpack in tow, you’ll be ready for any adventure that comes your way. Happy travels!