Traveling is a blast, but having the right backpack is key. Here's a list of over 15 top travel backpacks for women in 2024. From sleek and simple to tough and durable, we've got you covered.
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Pro Tips for Snagging a Cool Women's Travel Backpack
Here's how you can find the perfect women's travel backpack that's comfy, functional, and stylish:
Comfort and Fit
Get a backpack made for women. Look for contoured shoulder straps, adjustable chest and hip belts, and padding. Check out the Osprey Kyte 46. It’s comfy for long wear thanks to its adjustable harness and good weight distribution.
Size and Capacity
Pick a size that fits your trip. For carry-on, go for around 40 liters like the Osprey Fairview 40. It’s compact for flights but holds your stuff. For longer trips, try something bigger like the Deuter Transit 50 with a handy detachable daypack.
Organization and Compartments
A backpack with lots of compartments is a win. Separate your things easily. The North Face Borealis has lots of pockets and a laptop sleeve. The Montbell Tri Pack 30 opens like a suitcase for easy packing.
Material and Durability
Choose a backpack with durable, water-resistant material. The Eagle Creek Women’s Global Travel Companion is lightweight and water-repellent, perfect for rain and rough use.
Security Features
Stay safe with built-in security features. The Pacsafe Venture Safe Backpack has lockable zippers and RFID-proof material to protect your stuff from theft and electronic scans.
Weight and Usability
Go lightweight to avoid strain. The Quince All-Day Neoprene Backpack is easy to carry. Padded hip belts and chest straps help spread the weight evenly, reducing fatigue.
Style and Versatility
Make sure your backpack looks good and fits your needs. The Tropicfeel Shell is stylish and organized. The Fjallraven Travel Pack is durable and practical with features like a padded laptop compartment and clamshell opening.
What's the Right Size Backpack for TSA?
Size Restrictions
Stick to the TSA's carry-on size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Check your airline's rules, especially smaller ones.
Weight Restrictions
Carry-on weight limits vary. Most range from 15 to 22 pounds. Check to avoid fees or gate checks.
Additional Considerations
- Personal Items: You can bring a purse or laptop bag that fits under the seat.
- Expandable Features: Choose a backpack that can expand but still meets size rules.
- Packing Smartly: Roll clothes and use packing cubes. Keep electronics and liquids handy.
Top Brands for Travel Backpacks for Women
These brands cover all kinds of styles and functions. There's a backpack for every woman's needs and wants.
Osprey
Osprey – absolutely renowned for producing top-notch, versatile backpacks – is a true gem for both travel and outdoor escapades. The brand (utterly dedicated to sustainability and innovation) offers marvels like the Talon Earth 22 – eco-friendly and rugged. Osprey's laser focus on functional design and environmentally friendly practices.
Deuter
Deuter – a titan in the backpack world since 1898 – specializes in outdoor and sports gear with an uncanny attention to detail and durability. Whether you need lightweight daypacks or mammoth expedition packs, Deuter delivers. The brand's strict environmental standards – ensuring all products are free from harmful chemicals – make it a top choice.
JanSport
JanSport – a true staple in the backpack industry – is celebrated for its reliable and affordable options. Their versatile backPacks (like the Journey Pack) are perfect for everyday use, commuting, and even light hiking. JanSport's classic designs and top-notch materials – it's the go-to brand for students and travelers alike!
Cuyana
Cuyana offers chic, professional backpacks made from the finest leather. Their designs – both stylish and functional – include safety features for valuables and compartments for laptops. Cuyana’s elegant and practical designs make their backpacks ideal for business and formal settings.
TAH
TAH – renowned for luxurious leather backpacks that convert into shoulder bags – crafts each piece to order. This ensures high craftsmanship and minimal waste. TAH’s commitment to quality and sustainability, combined with their stylish designs, makes them a top pick for discerning consumers.
Parker Clay
Parker Clay produces premium leather backpacks – Ethiopian full-grain leather, no less. Their products are lightweight, durable, and stylish, with a focus on timeless design. Each backpack is unique due to the natural variations in the leather, making Parker Clay synonymous with quality and elegance.
Timbuk2
Timbuk2 – born from a San Francisco bike messenger's vision – excels in urban backpacks designed for commuters. Featuring practical elements like laptop compartments, reflective panels, and weather protection, their eco-friendly materials and customizable options make Timbuk2 a top choice for city dwellers.
Givenchy
Givenchy's backpacks – blending timeless design with modern street style – often feature bold graphics and luxurious materials. Known for their high-fashion appeal, Givenchy backpacks are both functional and stylish, perfect for various occasions from casual outings to formal settings.
Versace
Versace – offering vibrant, original backpacks crafted from premium materials – boasts designs that are bold and unmistakable. Reflecting the brand's luxury and adventurous spirit, Versace backpacks are durable and stylish, ideal for both travel and everyday use.
Coach
Coach – with a long history of producing fashionable and functional bags – offers backpacks in a variety of styles and materials, including classic leather. Known for their craftsmanship and timeless designs, Coach backpacks are versatile enough for both casual and professional settings.
The 15 Best Travel Backpacks for Women
Here are 15 top travel backpacks for women in 2024, based on expert reviews and testing:
1. Best for Overall Travel
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Super durable, organized, and stylish. It comes in vibrant colors. Easy access to the main compartment and has a rain cover.
2. Best Versatile Carry-On
Nomatic Travel Pack
Expandable carry-on backpack. Goes from 20L to 30L. Tons of pockets for great organization.
3. Best for Load-Carrying Comfort
Osprey Farpoint 40
Comfortable suspension system. Great for carrying heavy loads. Features a LightWire frame, load lifters, and breathable straps.
4. Best for Photographers
Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L
Perfect for photographers. Lots of attachment points for gear. Well-padded laptop sleeve. Opens clamshell-style for easy packing.
5. Best for Staying Organized
Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
Great organizational features. Structured clamshell opening. Multiple compartments for easy organization on the go.
6. Best Urban Daypack
Osprey Nebula 32
Versatile daypack. TSA-approved laptop compartment. Supportive fit and durable materials. Good for both city and outdoor use.
7. Best Eco-Friendly Option
Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
Stylish and eco-friendly. Made from recycled polyester. Roll-top design for adjustable capacity and durability.
8. Best Budget-Friendly
Ebags Mother Lode
Budget-friendly with an expandable design. Efficient compression straps. Known for its sturdy build and great organization.
9. Best for One-Bag Trips
Tortuga Outbreaker
Ideal for one-bag trips. Excellent organization and durable build. Multiple compartments and a weather-resistant exterior.
10. Best Compact Versatility
Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L
Compact and versatile. Padded laptop sleeve and daisy chain loops for extra gear. Great for light travel and day trips.
11. Best Multi-Use Travel
Osprey Kyte 38L
Great for multi-use travel like camping and hiking. Comfortable suspension system, compression straps, and multiple pockets.
12. Best for Big Trips
Gregory Alpaca 60 Duffel
Roomy and weather-resistant duffel. Large U-zip opening. Padded, removable shoulder straps. Perfect for big trips.
13. Best for Safety Features
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45
Top-notch safety features. Lockable zippers and RFID blocking pockets. Durable and protective travel option.
14. Best Trendy Lightweight
Quince All-Day Neoprene Backpack
Trendy and lightweight. Made from recycled materials. Luggage pass-through sleeve and detachable valuables pouch.
15. Best Modern Daypack
Moment MTW Backpack 17L
Stylish and modern daypack. Laptop pocket and space for daily essentials. Clean, modern look.
Should You Roll with a Backpack or a Carry-On?
When picking between a backpack and a carry-on suitcase, both have their perks and downsides. Your choice depends on what you need and where you're going.
Backpack Wins:
Mobility and Flexibility:
- Easier Navigation: Backpacks rock for busy airports, crowded streets, and uneven roads. Hands-free is a lifesaver.
- No Gate Checks: Airlines rarely make you check backpacks. This saves time and avoids lost luggage.
Cost and Style:
- Affordability: Quality backpacks are cheaper than fancy rolling luggage.
- Personal Style: Backpacks come in all styles, showing off your vibe, from streetwear to adventure.
Practicality:
- Daypack Versatility: A backpack can be your daypack once you arrive. Perfect for sightseeing.
- Security: Your stuff stays attached to you, reducing theft risk. Some even have hidden pockets for valuables.
Carry-On Suitcase Wins:
Protection and Capacity:
- Better Protection: Hard-shell suitcases protect fragile items and valuables better.
- Increased Capacity: More space and compartments for better packing and fewer wrinkles.
Ease of Use:
- Less Strain: Wheels take the load off your back and shoulders. Great for heavy packs or physical limits.
- Professional Look: Rolling suitcases look more business-like, perfect for keeping formal attire neat.
Convenience:
- Smooth Travel: Rollers are made for airport floors, easy to move around. They keep clothes more organized too.
Final Takeaway
Choosing between a backpack and a carry-on suitcase depends on what you need. If you want mobility, flexibility, and affordability, go with a backpack. If you need better protection, more space, and ease on smooth surfaces, a suitcase is better. Sometimes, using both—a backpack for daily stuff and a suitcase for bigger items—gives you the best of both worlds.
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