Planning your European adventure? The Best Travel Backpack For Europe is essential for a comfortable and convenient trip, and at TRAVELS.EDU.VN, we’ve got you covered with expert advice and curated recommendations. Finding the ideal European travel backpack ensures you navigate cobblestone streets and bustling train stations with ease, transforming your travel experience.
Table of Contents
- My Top Picks For The Best Travel Backpacks
- What Is So Great About Travel Backpacks?
- The Complete Travel Backpacks Buyer’s Guide
- Comparing Travel Backpacks Vs. Hiking Backpacks
- Travel Backpack Suspension System
- Gender-Specific Travel Backpacks
- Travel Backpack Configuration, Pockets, & Layout
- Laptop Compartment
- Travel Backpack Weight & Bulk
- Travel Backpack Structure and Internal Frame
- Stowable Shoulder Straps & Hip Belt
- Travel Backpack Materials/Fabrics
- Sturdy Zippers
- Top and Side Handles on Travel Backpacks
- Weather Resistance
- Backpack Style and Aesthetics
- Travel Backpack Prices
- How To Match Your Backpack To Your Travel Style
- Summary Of The Best Travel Backpacks
- Tips For Packing Your Travel Backpack
- Backpacking Europe Packing List
- FAQs About Best Travel Backpack for Europe
- Ready to Plan Your Napa Valley Getaway?
1. My Top Picks For The Best Travel Backpacks
Choosing the best backpacking backpack involves considering your travel style, duration, and personal preferences. From durable materials to comfortable designs, the ideal backpack ensures a stress-free journey. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top contenders for the best backpacking backpack:
- Osprey Farpoint/Fairview: Known as the “do-it-all” travel backpack, redesigned in 2022 for improved carry-on compliance and comfort.
- Aer Travel Pack 3: A minimalist and utilitarian option, updated in 2022 for enhanced functionality and style.
- Cotopaxi Allpa 42L: Combines design and style, making it a visually appealing and practical choice.
- Osprey Sojourn Porter: Excels as a gear-hauling backpack, offering ample space and durability.
- Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L: A full-featured option, designed to withstand any travel challenges with its robust construction.
- Kelty Redwing Tactile: A budget-friendly option, offering a blend of hiking and travel backpack features.
1.1. Osprey Farpoint & Fairview: The Best “Do-It-All” Travel Backpack
Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
The Osprey Farpoint (and the women’s version, Fairview) are exceptional “do-it-all” travel backpacks. These backpacks blend the comfort of a hiking pack with the practicality of a suitcase, making them ideal for various travel styles.
Key features:
- High-quality hiking-style shoulder harness for comfort
- Suitcase-style opening for easy packing
- Lightweight design
- Straps can be zipped away for checking the bag
Specifications:
| Feature | Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40 | Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 55 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 22H x 14W x 9D Inches | 22H x 14W x 9D Inches |
| Weight | 3.486 LBS | 4.234 LBS |
| Price | $185 | $220 |
| Notable Difference | No detachable daypack | Detachable 15L daypack |
What makes it ideal for Europe: Its versatility and comfortable design make it perfect for navigating European cities and public transport.
1.2. Aer Travel Pack 3: The Best Minimalist & Utilitarian Travel Backpack
Aer Travel Pack 3
The Aer Travel Pack 3 is a heavy-duty, minimalist travel backpack with a sleek, urban design. This 35L pack combines style and functionality, making it perfect for urban travel.
Key features:
- Stylish, minimalist design
- Ample pockets and organization
- High-quality, durable materials
- Comfortable, padded shoulder straps
Specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 21.5″ (54.5 cm) |
| Width | 13″ (33 cm) |
| Depth | 9″ (21.5 cm) |
| Weight | 4.12 lbs |
| Price | $250 via AER SF |
| Capacity | 35L |
What makes it ideal for Europe: Its carry-on size and stylish appearance make it an excellent choice for minimalist travelers exploring European cities.
1.3. Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack: The Best “Design Meets Style” Travel Backpack
Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack
The Cotopaxi Allpa 42L combines style and functionality, making it a top choice for travelers who value aesthetics and practicality.
Key features:
- Stylish design
- Comfortable and durable construction
- Multiple pockets for easy organization
- Tamper-resistant zippers
Specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 42L (2563 cu in) |
| Dimensions | 22 x 14 x 11″ (56 x 36 x 27cm) |
| Weight | 4lb 2oz (1871 g) |
| Material | TPU-coated 1000D polyester |
| Price | $220 via Cotopaxi |
What makes it ideal for Europe: Its carry-on size, stylish design, and organizational features make it perfect for exploring European destinations.
1.4. Osprey Sojourn Porter: The Best Gear-Hauling Travel Backpack
Osprey Porter Review
The Osprey Sojourn Porter is designed for travelers who need to haul a lot of gear. It combines durability and ample space, making it ideal for city hopping and urban travel.
Key features:
- Durable construction
- Spacious interior
- Comfortable enough for city travel
- “Turtle shell” shape maximizes packing space
Specifications:
| Feature | Osprey Sojourn Porter 30 | Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 | Osprey Sojourn Porter 65 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 19.5″ X 13″ X 10″ | 22″ X 14″ X 11″ | 25″ X 14″ X 12″ |
| Weight | 2.8 lbs | 3.4 lbs | 3.9 lbs |
| Price | $165 | $185 | $200 |
What makes it ideal for Europe: Its spacious design and durability are perfect for carrying all your essentials while navigating European cities.
1.5. Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L: The Best Full-Featured Travel Backpack
Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L
The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is a full-featured, durable travel backpack designed to withstand any travel challenge.
Key features:
- Extremely tough and water-resistant sailcloth fabric
- Beefy hiking-style shoulder harness and hip belt for comfort
- Tons of organization
- Carry-on-sized
Specifications:
| Feature | Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L | Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 in | 20.5 x 12.2 x 7.5 in |
| Weight | 4.5 lbs | 4.0 lbs |
| Price | $349 via Tortuga Backpacks | $325 via Tortuga Backpacks |
What makes it ideal for Europe: Its robust construction, comfortable design, and ample organization make it perfect for extended travel throughout Europe.
1.6. Kelty Redwing Tactile: The Best Budget-Friendly Backpack
The Kelty Redwing Tactile is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It’s a hybrid between a hiking and travel backpack, offering comfort and ease of packing.
Key features:
- Affordable price
- Comfortable design
- Quasi-suitcase opening for easy packing
- Available in multiple sizes
Specifications:
| Feature | Kelty Redwing 44 | Kelty Redwing 32 | Kelty Redwing 40 (Women’s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 25″ x 15″ x 12″ | 22″ x 14″ x 11″ | 23″ x 14″ x 12″ |
| Weight | 2 lbs 10 oz | 2 lbs | 2 lbs 10 oz |
| Price | $125 | $100 | $125 |
What makes it ideal for Europe: Its affordability and comfortable design make it a great option for budget travelers exploring Europe.
2. What Is So Great About Travel Backpacks?
Travel backpacks offer unparalleled freedom compared to suitcases. Traveling with a backpack encourages you to carefully consider your belongings, leading to a lighter and more manageable load. Here’s why travel backpacks are a great choice:
2.1. Freedom and Flexibility
A backpack allows you to navigate busy train stations, cobblestone streets, and endless staircases with ease. This flexibility is crucial for exploring the diverse landscapes of Europe.
2.2. Cost Savings
Traveling with a carry-on-sized backpack eliminates checked bag fees, saving you money on flights. Additionally, you avoid the risk of airlines losing your luggage.
2.3. Zen-Like Travel
Using a backpack promotes a minimalist approach to travel, making you more aware of what you bring and reducing unnecessary items.
Traveling with a travel backpack means traveling smarter, lighter, and more efficiently. You’ll be able to move freely and enjoy your European adventure to the fullest.
3. The Complete Travel Backpacks Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right travel backpack involves considering several factors to match your specific needs and travel style. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but understanding the key features will help you make an informed decision.
3.1. Understanding Your Needs
Consider the following factors when selecting a travel backpack:
- Trip Duration: Weekend trips require smaller packs than year-long adventures.
- Travel Style: Business trips may benefit from sleeker designs.
- Activities: Hiking-intensive trips need backpacks with advanced suspension systems.
3.2. Key Features to Consider
- Size: Measured in liters, with carry-on sizes typically around 40-45 liters.
- Comfort: Look for advanced shoulder harnesses and hip belts.
- Durability: Check for sturdy materials and zippers.
- Organization: Consider the number and placement of pockets.
4. Comparing Travel Backpacks Vs. Hiking Backpacks
When choosing a travel backpack, it’s important to understand the differences between travel-specific backpacks and hiking backpacks. While both can carry your belongings, they are designed for different purposes.
4.1. Clamshell/Suitcase Opening vs Top Opening Travel Backpacks
Travel Backpacks:
- Feature a clamshell or suitcase-style opening, making packing and unpacking easier.
- Allow easy access to items without unpacking everything.
Hiking Backpacks:
- Have a top-loading design, often with a single opening.
- Require more effort to access items at the bottom of the bag.
4.2. Travel Backpack Suspension System (Shoulder Straps, etc.)
Osprey Atmos (Hiking Backpack) vs Tortuga Setout (Travel Backpack)
Hiking Backpacks:
- Generally more comfortable due to advanced shoulder harnesses and hip belts.
- Designed to distribute weight effectively for long periods of wear.
Travel Backpacks:
- May offer less advanced suspension systems compared to hiking backpacks.
- Focus on practicality and ease of use for urban travel.
4.3. Travel Backpack Size & Layout
Travel Backpacks:
- Boxier shape, maximizing packing space.
- Efficiently utilize all available space.
Hiking Backpacks:
- Long and skinny, making it harder to utilize space efficiently.
- Shape keeps the load tight against your back, enhancing comfort.
4.4. Travel Backpack Weight
Hiking Backpacks:
- Lighter due to a simpler design.
Travel Backpacks:
- Heavier due to additional features and compartments.
4.5. Final Thoughts: Travel Vs. Hiking Backpacks
For urban travel in Europe, travel-style backpacks are often more practical due to their ease of packing, accessibility, and stylish designs. While hiking backpacks excel in comfort, they may lack the organizational features needed for city exploration.
5. Travel Backpack Suspension System
The comfort of your travel backpack largely depends on its suspension system, which includes the shoulder straps and hip belt.
5.1. Shoulder Strap Styles
Advanced Harness (Left) vs More Basic Shoulder Straps (Right)
- Hiking-Style Harness: Shoulder straps are positioned lower and curve around the shoulders, preventing the bag from pulling away from your back.
- Traditional Backpack-Style Harness: Shoulder straps may not conform as well, causing the bag to pull away and strain your shoulders.
5.2. Hip Belts
A hip belt helps distribute the bag’s weight from your shoulders to your hips, making it more comfortable to carry heavy loads. While some travelers forgo hip belts on smaller bags to keep things streamlined, they can significantly enhance comfort for heavy packers.
5.3. Padding
The amount of padding on the shoulder straps also affects comfort. More padding adds to the comfort but can also increase the bag’s weight and bulk.
5.4. Recommended Travel Backpacks With A Hiking-Style Harness:
- Osprey Farpoint
- Osprey Fairview (women’s version)
- Tortuga Travel Backpack
- AER Travel Pack 3
- Kelty Redwing
6. Gender-Specific Travel Backpacks
Most travel backpacks are unisex, but some companies offer gender-specific designs, particularly for women. These designs often feature shoulder straps shaped to fit women better.
6.1. Benefits of Women-Specific Backpacks:
- Improved fit and comfort for women’s body types
- Enhanced weight distribution
6.2. Recommended Women-Specific Travel Backpacks:
- Kelty Redwing 40
- Osprey Fairview 40
- Osprey Fairview 55
7. Travel Backpack Configuration, Pockets, & Layout
The configuration, pockets, and layout of a travel backpack are critical for organization and accessibility.
7.1. Main Compartment
Most travel backpacks feature one large main compartment and several smaller pockets to keep your belongings organized. Balancing organization with weight is key.
7.2. Exterior Pockets
Handy External Pockets on the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Tortuga
Exterior pockets, especially a top exterior pocket, can be very useful for storing frequently accessed items like phones, sunglasses, and travel documents.
8. Laptop Compartment
If you’re traveling with a laptop or tablet, consider the laptop compartment’s design and accessibility.
8.1. Key Features:
- External access for easy removal during airport security checks.
- Placement against your back for protection and weight distribution.
9. Travel Backpack Weight & Bulk
Travel backpacks range from lightweight (2.5 lbs) to heavy (7 lbs+). Heavier bags tend to have more padding and pockets, while lighter bags cut back on these features.
9.1. Considerations:
- Airline Weight Limits: Budget airlines often have strict weight limits for carry-on bags.
- Comfort: A lighter bag may be more comfortable for extended wear.
10. Travel Backpack Structure and Internal Frame
The structure and internal frame of a travel backpack contribute to its stability and weight distribution.
10.1. Structure Methods:
- Lightweight internal frame (internal poles)
- Large plastic sheet built into the back of the bag
10.2. Benefits:
- Distributes weight evenly across your back.
- Keeps the load tight against your body.
11. Stowable Shoulder Straps & Hip Belt
Stowable shoulder straps and hip belts are a valuable feature, allowing you to hide the straps when checking the bag or boarding a plane.
11.1. Benefits:
- Protects straps from damage during baggage handling.
- Allows for easier movement through narrow aisles.
11.2. Recommended Backpacks With Stowable Straps:
- Osprey Farpoint
- Osprey Fairview
- Osprey Porter
- Tortuga Travel Backpack
- eBags Motherlode Weekender
12. Travel Backpack Materials/Fabrics
Most travel backpacks are made of synthetic materials, typically nylon, known for being lightweight and durable.
12.1. Common Fabrics:
- Nylon Ripstop
- CORDURA
- Ballistic Nylon
- Waterproof Sailcloth
12.2. Considerations:
- Thickness/Weight: Indicated by numbers (e.g., 210D, 420D, 1680D).
- Weave: Affects the fabric’s durability.
13. Sturdy Zippers
The zipper is often the most common failure point in a backpack. High-quality bags use YKK zippers.
13.1. Key Features:
- YKK Zippers: Known for their durability.
- Weather-Sealed Zippers: Help protect your belongings from rain.
14. Top and Side Handles on Travel Backpacks
Sturdy handles on the top and side of the bag are helpful for carrying your bag in narrow spaces or moving it without wearing it.
14.1. Benefits:
- Easy to grab and carry
- Useful for maneuvering in tight spaces
15. Weather Resistance
While a fully waterproof backpack isn’t necessary, some weather resistance is helpful.
15.1. Considerations:
- Water-Resistant Materials: Help keep the elements out.
- Rain Cover: A cheap rain cover can provide extra protection.
16. Backpack Style and Aesthetics
Travel backpacks come in various styles, from sleek and urban to outdoorsy.
16.1. Styles:
- Minimalist: Sleek and simple designs.
- Utilitarian: Functional with multiple pockets and features.
- Outdoorsy: Rugged and durable, often with bright colors.
16.2. Considerations:
- Personal Preference: Choose a style that suits your taste.
- Urban Styling: Can help you blend in and avoid looking like a tourist.
17. Travel Backpack Prices
Well-made travel backpacks range from around $140 to $350+.
17.1. Budget Options:
- Buy used (Craigslist, eBay)
- Check REI Garage for closeout deals
18. How To Match Your Backpack To Your Travel Style
Choosing the right backpack depends on your travel style.
18.1. Considerations:
- Combined with Suitcase: A smaller backpack may suffice.
- Business Travel: Look for a sleeker, more stylish bag.
- Limited Destinations: A large backpack may not be necessary.
- Winter Travel: A slightly larger bag can accommodate bulky items.
- Public Transportation: Consider a hiking-style backpack with an advanced harness system.
19. Summary Of The Best Travel Backpacks
Here’s a quick recap of our favorite travel backpacks:
- Osprey Farpoint/Fairview: Best “Do-It-All”
- Aer Travel Pack 3: Best Minimalist & Utilitarian
- Cotopaxi Allpa 42L: Best “Design Meets Style”
- Osprey Sojourn Porter: Best Gear-Hauling
- Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L: Best Full-Featured
- Kelty Redwing Tactile: Best Budget-Friendly
20. Tips For Packing Your Travel Backpack
Packing efficiently is crucial for a successful trip.
20.1. Use Packing Cubes:
Packing cubes help you compartmentalize your clothes, keeping everything organized and easily accessible.
21. Backpacking Europe Packing List
Now that you’ve found the perfect backpack, it’s time to start packing.
21.1. Key Items to Pack:
- Versatile clothing items
- Comfortable shoes
- Essential toiletries
- Electronics and adapters
22. FAQs About Best Travel Backpack for Europe
Q1: What size travel backpack is best for Europe?
A1: A 40-45 liter backpack is generally ideal as it meets most airline carry-on requirements while providing enough space for your essentials. This size allows for easy mobility and avoids checked baggage fees.
Q2: Are hiking backpacks suitable for European city travel?
A2: While hiking backpacks are comfortable, travel backpacks with suitcase-style openings and organizational features are more practical for urban environments. Look for options with stowable straps to avoid snagging.
Q3: How important is a laptop compartment in a travel backpack?
A3: If you’re traveling with a laptop, a dedicated compartment with external access is essential for airport security. Ensure it’s padded to protect your device.
Q4: What materials should I look for in a durable travel backpack?
A4: Look for synthetic materials like nylon, such as CORDURA or Ballistic Nylon, which are lightweight and durable. High-quality zippers, like YKK, are also crucial for longevity.
Q5: Should I choose a gender-specific travel backpack?
A5: Women may benefit from backpacks with shoulder straps shaped to fit their body better. However, many unisex options work well, so it depends on personal preference.
Q6: How much should I expect to spend on a good travel backpack?
A6: Expect to spend between $140 and $350+ for a well-made travel backpack. Consider buying used or checking for closeout deals if you’re on a budget.
Q7: What are the benefits of using packing cubes?
A7: Packing cubes help you organize your clothes, compress items, and make it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything. They’re a must-have for efficient packing.
Q8: How can I protect my travel backpack from rain?
A8: While some backpacks have water-resistant materials, a separate rain cover provides the best protection. They’re inexpensive and easy to pack.
Q9: Is it necessary to have stowable shoulder straps on a travel backpack?
A9: Stowable straps are beneficial as they protect the straps during baggage handling and make it easier to move through narrow spaces like plane aisles.
Q10: What are the key features of a comfortable travel backpack?
A10: A comfortable travel backpack includes a well-padded and adjustable shoulder harness, a hip belt for weight distribution, and a design that keeps the load close to your back.
23. Ready to Plan Your Napa Valley Getaway?
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