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The Best Travel Backpacks, According to Frequent Fliers

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, September 16th 2025 at 18:00 GMT by Wall Street Journal
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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Traveling is a lifestyle choice that has been refined over decades of experience, and the gear that accompanies us on those journeys has evolved in equal measure. The Wall Street Journal’s “Best Travel Backpacks” roundup distills years of market research, user reviews, and expert testing into a single, digestible list of backpacks that are not only durable and functional but also stylish and comfortable. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker heading out on a multi‑week trek or a digital nomad packing for a short business trip, there’s a backpack on this list that fits the bill.

1. Osprey Farpoint 40

The Osprey Farpoint 40 is the benchmark for everyday carry. Its 40‑liter capacity strikes a sweet spot for weekend trips or brief city excursions, offering a dedicated laptop pocket, a fleece‑lined garment compartment, and a detachable day pack. The back panel is engineered with a breathable mesh that keeps sweat at bay, and the harness system is adjustable to fit a range of body types. The standout feature is the Quick‑Access side pocket that houses a phone or travel document, while the integrated rain cover is a lifesaver in unexpected showers. Priced around $200, it’s a small price for a product that Osprey has refined for years.

2. Patagonia Black Hole 30

Patagonia’s Black Hole 30 is a rugged, weather‑proof companion that’s as fashionable as it is functional. Made from 100‑percent recycled polyester, it offers a minimalist design that carries a laptop, a 9‑inch tablet, and a camera. The bag’s “Black Hole” construction means that the entire exterior is sealed in one layer, so it resists water, dirt, and abrasion. The soft‑sided design gives it a roomy interior, while a dedicated “Easy‑Access” pocket on the back makes it simple to grab items on the go. It’s a little pricier—around $200—yet the brand’s commitment to environmental stewardship is hard to overlook.

3. Nomatic Travel Pack 35

Nomatic’s Travel Pack 35 is engineered for the modern professional who demands organization without bulk. The 35‑liter capacity feels surprisingly spacious because of a modular internal layout that can be customized with various inserts. It comes with a built‑in USB charging port and a rain cover, both integrated into the frame. The ergonomic harness system includes a “Vent‑Air” mesh that channels away heat, and the bag’s sleek profile fits comfortably under an airplane seat. The price point, at about $250, is on the higher side, but the travel‑grade durability and modularity justify the premium.

4. Herschel Supply Co. Little America

Herschel’s Little America blends classic ski‑style aesthetics with modern travel needs. Its 34‑liter capacity can hold a sleeping bag, a laptop, and a few extra items, making it ideal for extended trips that require a bit more space. The back panel has a moisture‑wicking finish, and the padded shoulder straps provide comfort even during long walks. Its most distinctive feature is the “Herschel‑style” canvas and nylon combination, which gives the pack a rugged, timeless look. At roughly $100, it’s an excellent entry‑level backpack for travelers on a budget.

5. North Face Base Camp 30

The North Face Base Camp 30 offers durability, utility, and a sleek look. Its 30‑liter capacity comes with a padded laptop sleeve, a water‑proof zipper, and a dedicated day‑pack pocket. The internal organization includes a mesh organizer and a small pouch for toiletries. The straps are wide and padded for comfort, and the back panel has a ventilation system to reduce sweating. The bag is also equipped with a removable day‑pack for short excursions. Priced at about $140, it’s a mid‑tier option that doesn’t compromise on quality.

6. Tumi Alpha 3

For those who want the prestige of a luxury brand without sacrificing function, the Tumi Alpha 3 is a standout. This 33‑liter backpack is designed with Tumi’s signature “Tumi Trunk” technology, which features a hard shell that protects your gear while a soft‑sided interior offers ample room. It’s equipped with a built‑in laptop compartment, a TSA‑approved lockable pocket, and a built‑in charger. The adjustable shoulder straps and the back panel’s ventilation system make long‑haul travel more comfortable. While the price is steep—around $450—it’s an investment that’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

7. REI Co‑op Flash 35

The REI Co‑op Flash 35 is a versatile, weather‑resistant backpack that’s well-suited for adventure travelers. It features a padded laptop sleeve, a day‑pack pocket, and a rear rain cover. The “Co‑op” logo is emblazoned across the front in a subtle, matte finish. The strap system is designed to distribute weight evenly, and the bag’s “Air‑Mesh” back panel helps keep you cool. At $130, it offers a mid‑range price point and the reassurance of REI’s well‑known durability.

8. Thule Subterra

The Thule Subterra is a functional, sleek backpack that can double as an overnight pack or a commuter bag. Its 27‑liter capacity includes a padded laptop sleeve, a fleece‑lined pocket for fragile items, and a detachable day‑pack. The “Thule‑Tech” system is built to keep the bag organized and light, and the straps are padded for comfort. With a waterproof shell and a “Quick‑Access” front pocket, it’s a strong candidate for travelers who value efficiency. Priced at around $120, it is an attractive, budget‑friendly option.

9. Fjällräven Kånken 30

Fjällräven’s Kånken 30 is a re‑interpretation of a classic that’s been re‑engineered for travel. Its 30‑liter capacity can hold a laptop, a sleeping bag, and a travel pillow. It features a simple but effective organizational layout, including a front pocket for water bottles and a side zippered pocket for quick access to a wallet. The iconic canvas exterior offers a durable, breathable feel, while the padded straps keep the load distributed evenly. At roughly $110, it is one of the most affordable options on the list.

10. Patagonia Black Hole 50

If you’re going on a long, multi‑day trek, the 50‑liter capacity of the Patagonia Black Hole 50 is a practical choice. It’s built from the same weather‑proof, 100‑percent recycled polyester as the Black Hole 30, but it also features a larger, more rugged frame that can handle rough terrain. The internal organization is modular, with multiple pockets and a padded laptop sleeve. It also comes with a rain cover and an optional day‑pack. Priced at around $200, it offers a robust solution for those who need both capacity and resilience.

How the Wall Street Journal Conducted the Review

The WSJ’s travel team didn’t merely cherry‑pick bestselling backpacks. Instead, they performed hands‑on testing, field‑trials in varied climates, and interviews with seasoned travelers. Key criteria included:

• Capacity – How much can the bag hold while still being comfortable?
• Durability – Resistance to water, abrasion, and daily wear.
• Comfort – Ventilation, strap design, weight distribution.
• Organization – Pockets, compartments, and easy‑access features.
• Price – Value for money relative to competing models.

In addition to the article’s text, the WSJ embedded links to the official product pages for each backpack. These pages offer more detailed specifications, user reviews, and often a 360° view of the bag’s interior. By following those links, readers can evaluate whether a specific backpack meets their personal needs—whether that’s a laptop‑heavy work bag or a lightweight daypack.

Bottom‑Line Takeaways

1. Size Matters – Smaller backpacks (30–40 L) are perfect for quick trips or minimalists, while larger capacities (50 L) suit multi‑day excursions.
2. Weather‑Proofing is a Must – Even in temperate climates, unexpected rain can turn a trip into a soggy disaster; most of the top picks have built‑in rain covers.
3. Comfort Is King – Ventilated straps, padded back panels, and well‑distributed weight keep travelers comfortable over long distances.
4. Price Range – $100–$250 covers a broad spectrum of budgets, and the only outlier—Tumi Alpha 3—is worth it if you want a premium, lifetime‑warranty product.
5. Eco‑Responsibility – Patagonia’s recycled polyester line offers a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious travelers.

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight “just‑in‑time” carry‑all or a rugged “back‑pack‑ready‑for‑any‑weather” system, the Wall Street Journal’s guide covers all bases. Check the product links for up‑to‑date pricing and promotions, and you’ll have the knowledge you need to make a smart, informed purchase. Happy traveling!