Travel Backpack: The Complete 2026 Guide (Cabin, Long Trip, Women & Men)
Looking for the right travel backpack? Airplane cabin size, long trips, suitcase-style opening, urban technical design — we’ll help you find the backpack that goes with you from city breaks to round-the-world trips.
You’re getting ready for a trip. You pull out your backpack. It’s your old hiking pack, too bulky for the cabin and impractical in the city. You try your suitcase, but it gets stuck on the cobblestones. You grab your weekend bag, but you don’t have enough hands for your ticket, coffee, and phone. Classic.
A well-chosen travel backpack is the accessory that solves all of this: it fits in the cabin, opens like a suitcase so you can access everything, keeps your hands free, and is comfortable to carry for 8 hours of walking without hurting your back. But between a 40L cabin-size backpack, a large 60L round-the-world backpack, a hybrid wheeled backpack, and a technical carry-on, how do you choose the right one? This guide gives you everything you need to know.
What is a travel backpack?
A travel backpack is a backpack specifically designed for multi-day trips. What sets it apart from an urban or classic hiking backpack is its suitcase-style opening (it opens flat along the lining, so you can access everything without taking it all out), its cabin-optimized dimensions (45-55 cm tall at most), and its carry system (waist and sternum straps for long hours of walking).
Historically, the modern travel backpack draws inspiration from the trekking backpack reimagined for urban use (Osprey Farpoint, Tortuga, ARC'TERYX Bora), the technical carry-on backpack (Tom Bihn, Peak Design), and the modernized military backpack. Today, the market has exploded. You can find 35-40L strict cabin backpacks, 40-50L larger cabin backpacks, 50-65L long-trip backpacks, hybrid wheeled backpacks, and ultra-organized technical carry-on backpacks. In short, there’s a backpack for every trip.
That’s what it’s designed for: combining mobility and organization. For travelers who fly, take the train, walk around foreign cities, and climb the stairs to Airbnbs, a travel backpack beats a hard-shell suitcase or a basic weekend bag hands down.
Why a backpack beats a suitcase for travel
Before getting a good one, you travel with a hard-shell suitcase or a gym bag. After three trips with a proper travel backpack, you’ll know. Here are four practical reasons why.
You can get anywhere without a hassle
A hard-shell suitcase gets stuck on cobblestones, jams on stairs, and won’t fit on some subway trains. With a travel backpack, you carry it everywhere — across every surface, level, and type of transport. In Lisbon, Naples, and the Cinque Terre, it’s non-negotiable.
You keep both hands free
You can hold your phone (for GPS), your ticket, your coffee, your subway pass, and take a photo. No need to set your bag down for every little thing. Over 12 hours in transit, that makes a huge difference.
You can reach everything without taking it all out
A good travel backpack opens like a suitcase (flat at 180°), not like a hiking backpack (only from the top). You can find your pajamas at the bottom without unpacking 8 layers first. That’s THE big difference from a classic hiking backpack.
You can carry it comfortably, even when it’s full
Padded shoulder straps, a technical back panel, a hip belt that transfers 30–40% of the weight to your hips, and a chest strap for stability. After 6 hours in transit (train station, subway, walking, waiting), your back feels much better than with a weekend bag slung over your shoulder.
The 6 types of travel backpacks
Here are the six main types, along with their uses, strengths, and limitations.
The 35–45L carry-on backpack
Optimized to fit standard carry-on dimensions (55×35×25 cm), with a capacity of 35–45 liters, a 180° suitcase-style opening, organized compartments, and sometimes a detachable hip belt. A smart urban traveler vibe.
- Capacity: 35 to 45 liters
- Ideal for: 3-10 day trips by plane, city breaks, low-cost flights
- Key strength: carry-on compatible, suitcase-style organization, versatile for city use
- Worth noting: strict limit for Ryanair flights (down to 40×20×25 cm)
The most versatile style for modern travelers. Specialist brands: Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, Cabin Zero, Tortuga, Peak Design Travel. Expect to pay €100-300.
The 50-65L long-trip backpack
A larger format with a capacity of 50-65 liters, designed for long trips or varied climates (when you need more clothing). Suitcase-style opening, reinforced hip belt for comfort over long distances.
- Capacity: 50 to 65 liters
- Ideal for: trips of 2+ weeks, round-the-world trips, travel across 2-3 climates
- Key strength: capacity, long-distance comfort, suitcase-style opening
- Worth noting: not carry-on compatible (must be checked)
A style for true long-haul travelers. Brands: Osprey Atmos, Deuter, Gregory. Expect to pay €150-350.
The compact 25-35L technical carry-on
An ultra-compact format (25-35L), full clamshell opening, highly organized compartments (dedicated laptop compartment, tech accessories, clothing). Minimalist tech-travel vibe.
- Capacity: 25 to 35 liters
- Ideal for: short 2-4 day trips, frequent business travel
- Key strength: ultra-organized, fits strict carry-on limits everywhere
- Worth noting: limited capacity for long trips
The favorite style of "digital nomads" and business travelers. Specialist brands: Peak Design 30L, Tom Bihn, GORUCK. Expect to pay €200-500.
The hybrid urban backpack
A style that works just as well in the city as when traveling, with a more stylish look than a dedicated technical travel backpack. Average capacity: 30-40L. Hybrid opening (top-loading + suitcase-style, depending on the model).
- Capacity: 30 to 40 liters
- Ideal for: short mixed business/leisure trips, chic urban looks
- Key strength: top-notch style, versatility for city and travel
- Worth noting: less optimized than a dedicated technical backpack, with less advanced organization
A style for travelers who want a bag that's functional and stylish. Brands: Bellroy Transit, Aer, Côte&Ciel. Expect to pay €150-350.
The hybrid wheeled backpack
Dual-use format: wheels + convertible shoulder straps. You can roll it through the airport and wear it as a backpack in narrow streets. Capacity: 40-65 liters.
- Capacity: 40 to 65 liters
- Ideal for: mixed urban+nature trips, undecided between a "suitcase or backpack"
- Key strength: complete versatility, a backrest for when you get tired of carrying it
- Worth noting: heavier when empty (2-3 kg with wheels), less optimized than each dedicated format
Choose this format if you spend a lot of time in airports and cities. Brands: Osprey Sojourn, Eagle Creek. Expect to pay €200-450.
The modern 40-55L hiking backpack
A modernized technical hiking format for travel. Top-loading (sometimes side-loading), excellent carrying system, ultra-durable materials. More "outdoorsy" than other formats.
- Capacity: 40 to 55 liters
- Ideal for: nature and city trips, trekking and cultural travel
- Key strength: exceptional comfort over long distances, maximum durability
- Worth noting: top-loading is less convenient in town/hotels
Classic outdoor brands: Osprey, Deuter, Gregory, Fjällräven Kanken Travel. Expect to pay €100-250.
The 8 criteria for choosing well
1. Cabin dimensions
Critical if you fly often. Standard cabin: 55×35×25 cm (traditional airlines such as Air France). Strict cabin: 40×25×20 cm (Ryanair "personal item"). Medium cabin: 55×40×20 cm (European airlines). Aim for the dimensions allowed by YOUR main airline.
2. L'opening
Top loading (from the top): classic hiking backpack, less convenient for travel. Clamshell / suitcase-style (180°): ideal for travel, you can see everything. Hybrid (suitcase-style + quick top access): the compromise.
3. The carrying system
Wide padded shoulder straps (5+ cm) for comfort. Chest strap for stability. Waist strap to transfer the weight to your hips (crucial for 8L+ and long walks). Breathable technical back panel (mesh) to prevent sweating.
4. The laptop compartment
Critical if you travel with a laptop. 5-8 mm padded compartment, ideally suspended (doesn't touch the bottom), with a separate closure. Check the maximum supported size (13", 14", 15", 16", 17").
5. Water repellency
Water-repellent material (technical nylon, ripstop polyester, coated canvas) protects your belongings from liquid damage. Integrated rain cover on some outdoor models. Storm flaps over zippers on exposed openings.
6. The zippers
Quality metal zippers (YKK is the standard) rather than plastic. Double sliders for opening from both sides. Built-in TSA locks on some models (handy for sensitive areas).
7. Empty weight
An empty 40L travel backpack weighs 1.2 to 2 kg, depending on the model. With a total of 10 kg allowed in the cabin, every 100 g counts. Aim for an empty bag weighing < 1.5 kg to maximize usable capacity.
8. L'internal organization
Multiple compartments: dedicated laptop compartment, tech accessories, clothes, shoes (sometimes a dedicated compartment). Side pockets: water bottle, passport. Secure zippered pockets: documents, money, keys. The better organized you are, the less time you spend searching.
What capacity for which trip
1-3 night trip (city break)
25-35L. You can fit 2-3 complete outfits + toiletry bag + laptop + accessories. Very versatile for work and weekends. Compact technical carry-on or urban backpack.
4-7 night trip (week-long vacation)
35-45L. You can bring more clothes and accessories. Standard carry-on size is still an option. A 40L carry-on backpack is the best choice.
1-2 week trip (long vacation)
45-55L. You'll need to get seriously organized. A suitcase-style opening + waist strap become essential. Carry-on is still possible if packed well.
2-4 week trip (long trip / multi-country tour)
50-65L. More clothes for different climates, various accessories. A carry-on is no longer an option (check it or use a hybrid wheeled bag).
1 month+ trip (around the world / nomadic travel)
60-75L. Recommended maximum capacity. Any more, and you're lugging around unnecessary weight. The golden rule: "if you're hesitating, you don't need it".
Carry-on backpack: what you need to know
This is THE question that matters to 80% of travelers. Here's what you need to know.
Standard dimensions by airline
- Air France / KLM / Lufthansa / British Airways: 55×35×25 cm + 1 personal item
- EasyJet: 56×45×25 cm (you can take an additional smaller bag with a higher-tier ticket)
- Ryanair: 40×20×25 cm (FREE personal item) + 55×40×20 cm (PAID cabin bag)
- Wizz Air: 40×30×20 cm (FREE personal item) + 55×40×23 cm (PAID cabin bag)
The weight limit
Traditional airlines: generally 8-10 kg in the cabin, rarely weighed. Low-cost airlines: 10 kg for the paid large size, often strictly weighed (Ryanair).
The "Personal Item" trick
A personal item is what fits under the seat in front of you. It's a savvy traveler's best friend: a 25-35L backpack can count as a free "personal item" + you can also bring your carry-on suitcase if it's paid. Many people do this to save on carry-on baggage fees.
Airport security checks
- Liquids: containers of 100 ml maximum in a clear plastic bag of 20×20 cm
- Laptop / tablet: remove from your bag at security (unless you have a TSA-certified "checkpoint-friendly" bag)
- Knives / scissors: not allowed in the cabin (pack them in checked luggage if you need them)
Packing your carry-on backpack
Pack rolled clothes (they compress better than folded ones). Put the heaviest items (shoes, books) at the bottom against your back for a better center of gravity. Keep airport essentials accessible (passport, ticket, phone charger) in a front or side pocket.
Which material to choose
Technical nylon (Cordura, Ballistic Nylon)
The go-to material for travel backpacks. Ultra-durable, water-repellent, lightweight.
- Advantages: ultra-durable, water-repellent, lightweight, snag-resistant
- Limitations: "techy" look, doesn't develop a patina
- Ideal for: frequent travelers, multiple climates, long trips
Ripstop polyester
A more affordable alternative to nylon. Lightweight, water-repellent, durable.
- Advantages: lightweight, water-repellent, affordable
- Limitations: less durable than Cordura, can fray
- Ideal for: occasional travelers, mid-range budget
Grain leather (hybrid urban bags)
For more stylish backpacks. Heavier, develops a patina, less water-repellent.
- Advantages: polished look, durability, patina
- Limitations: weight, price, maintenance, less water-repellent
- Ideal for: mixed urban business/personal travel
Cotton canvas
Casual style, casual vibe. More delicate than nylon.
- Advantages: casual look, affordable price
- Limitations: not water-repellent, can stain
- Ideal for: casual short trips
Leather + nylon (hybrids)
A combination of both. Stylish look + technical durability.
- Advantages: the best of both worlds
- Limitations: high price
- Ideal for: chic-tech travel
Avoid
Low-quality synthetic fabrics that tear. Shiny plastics. Non-breathable fabrics. Ultra-seasonal prints that quickly look dated.
How to organize it properly
The packing cube technique
Packing cubes are fabric compartments that stack in your bag. Separate clothes / dirty laundry / underwear / accessories. Find everything instantly. Budget €20-40 for a quality set (Eagle Creek, Tortuga, Peak Design).
Packing by frequency of use
At the bottom against your back: heavy items (shoes, books). In the middle: folded/rolled clothes. At the top: pajamas, slippers (first access). Front pockets: airport essentials within easy reach. Side pockets: water bottle, passport.
The liquids rule
Put all liquids in one clear 20×20 cm plastic bag, with bottles of 100 ml maximum. Keep this bag in an easily accessible pocket so you don't have to take everything out at security. Save 2 minutes at every check-in.
L cable organization
A dedicated cable organizer (compartments with elastic loops) prevents chaos. Separate: phone charger + cable + adapter, laptop charger, headphones, power bank.
Essentials to keep on you
Passport, ID card, main bank card, phone, headphones: keep them on you in the backpack's front zip pocket, never in checked baggage, never in the backpack's main compartment.
Daisy quilted cotton toiletry bag
€15
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Tropique quilted cotton toiletry bag
€15
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Vale quilted cotton toiletry bag
€15
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5 mistakes to avoid
1. Buying a backpack that's too big "to have room to spare"
A half-empty 50L backpack puts a strain on your back and makes you an easy target. Choose a capacity that really suits YOUR trips, not the biggest one just in case.
2. Sacrificing the carrying system
Thin straps + unventilated back = sore shoulders after an hour. Go for a proper carrying system (padded shoulder straps, waist strap, technical back panel) if you walk for more than 30 minutes at a time.
3. Not checking cabin bag dimensions
A gorgeous €250 bag that gets rejected at boarding is a disaster. ALWAYS check the exact dimensions allowed by YOUR main airline before buying.
4. Choosing a top-loading opening for city travel
With a regular hiking backpack, you have to empty 8 layers to find your pajamas at the bottom. For city or hotel travel, always choose a suitcase-style opening (clamshell).
5. Buying something "too technical" for simple use
A €400 bag with 32 compartments for two trips a year is overkill. Choose a level of organization that suits how often you actually travel.
How to care for your backpack
For a technical nylon backpack
- Daily: no maintenance needed
- After every trip: empty it, shake it out, and air it for 24 hours
- Washing: machine wash at 30° in a protective laundry bag once a year (or more often if used a lot)
- Drying: air-dry, never tumble-dry (this could damage the coating)
- Storage: somewhere dry and clean, flat or on a padded hanger
For a hybrid leather backpack
- Daily: use a slightly damp soft cloth to remove marks
- Yearly: apply nourishing cream to the leather parts
- If it gets wet: air-dry, never near a heat source
- Storage: in a cotton dust bag, away from direct sunlight
For a cotton canvas backpack
- Washing: machine wash at 30° in a protective laundry bag
- Drying: air-dry
- Storage: on a padded hanger
If the zipper is stuck
Rub a graphite pencil over the zipper teeth to lubricate them. If the zipper is broken, a leather goods repair specialist can replace it for €20-50 — still cheaper than buying an equivalent bag again.
Storing your bag between trips
Empty it completely, shake it out, and air it for 24-48 hours. Store it in a dry closet, flat or on a wide hanger. Avoid sealed plastic bags, which trap any residual moisture.
FAQ — Everything you need to know about travel backpacks
What size travel backpack should you choose?
Consider the length of your trip. 1-3 nights: 25-35L (technical carry-on). 4-7 nights: 35-45L (standard cabin bag). 1-2 weeks: 45-55L (cabin bag if packed well). 2-4 weeks: 50-65L (checked luggage). 1 month+: 60-75L max. Above 75L, you’re carrying unnecessary weight.
Which travel backpack should you choose for cabin luggage?
Choose a 40L backpack measuring no more than 55×35×25 cm to fit in standard carry-on. A backpack with a suitcase-style opening + detachable hip belt + laptop compartment is the sweet spot. Top specialist brands: Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40, Tortuga Setout 35L, Cabin Zero 36L. Budget €100-250.
Travel backpack or suitcase: which should you choose?
A backpack is the better choice if you walk a lot, travel to cities with cobblestones (Lisbon, Naples), stay in Airbnbs without elevators, or use public transit. A suitcase is the better choice if you mostly go from the airport → taxi → hotel and don’t carry it much. Many travelers have both, depending on the trip.
What’s the budget for a good travel backpack?
Budget €80 to €150 for a decent entry-level travel backpack (Cabin Zero, Eastpak Pro). €150 to €300 for an Osprey Farpoint, Tortuga, or a well-sized Bellroy. €300 to €500 for a Peak Design Travel, ARC'TERYX, or Tom Bihn. €500+ for prestigious outdoor brands. Below €60, the quality of the zippers, shoulder straps, and materials is generally insufficient.
Which travel backpack should a woman choose?
Look for an ergonomic back system suited to a shorter torso (Osprey Fairview, Deuter ACT Trail SL, or women's-specific models). Capacity: 40-50L for a 1-2 week trip. Contoured shoulder straps in S (fit the chest better than straight straps). A sternum strap and hip belt are essential for comfort.
Which travel backpack should a man choose?
Look for a backpack suited to a long torso (Osprey Farpoint, Tortuga Setout). Capacity: 40-55L, depending on the trip length. Wide, straight shoulder straps. Sternum strap + hip belt. Neutral colors (black, khaki, charcoal gray) for versatility. A laptop compartment is essential if you work while traveling.
How do you pack a travel backpack?
One week before: make a list: check the destination’s weather and essential items. Two days before: get ready: lay everything out on the bed and sort it by category. Pack the day before: roll your clothes (saves 30% of space), put heavy items at the bottom against your back, and keep accessories handy in the front pockets. Weigh it before you leave if you’re flying low-cost.
Wheeled travel backpack: useful or not?
Useful if you do a lot of airports + city travel but also walk. You roll it through the airport and carry it around the city. Downsides: heavier when empty (2-3 kg with wheels), less optimized than either format on its own. If you’re mostly walking on cobblestones: not useful (the wheels get stuck). If you’re mostly going from the airport to the hotel: get a proper suitcase.
Which travel backpack brand should I choose?
Entry/mid-range (€80-200): Cabin Zero, Eastpak Pro, Kanken Travel, The North Face. Mid-range pro (€150-300): Osprey Farpoint/Fairview/Atmos, Tortuga, Deuter. High-end (€300-500): Peak Design Travel, Tom Bihn, ARC'TERYX. Very high-end (€500+): ARC'TERYX Veilance, Aer, Black Ember.
How can I avoid having my backpack stolen while traveling?
Three rules: 1) Choose a bag with lockable zippers (TSA locks or similar) on the main compartment. 2) Keep your passport + cash + main bank card on you in a money belt or a closed zippered pocket + not in your backpack. 3) On long journeys, carry your bag in front of you (against your stomach) in heavily touristed areas (Rome, Barcelona, Naples).
The Bokabas selection
At Bokabas, we don’t have a dedicated travel backpack—our world is more focused on fashion and quilted textile accessories. But we have everything you need to complement your travel backpack with thoughtfully designed toiletry bags.
Leopard cotton quilted toiletry bag
€22
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Orange Cheetah cotton quilted toiletry bag
€15
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Surf cotton quilted toiletry bag
€15
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The combo of a quilted toiletry bag (€22) + makeup bag (€39) + medium pouch (€19) tucked into your travel backpack = an organized setup for €80 that’ll accompany you around the world. If you’re also looking for a complementary bag to your travel backpack (for evenings out without carrying everything), check out our belt bags (€39-45) for men/unisex styles or our quilted pouches (€15) for women.
Toiletry Bags Collection
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