12 Best Travel Backpacks for Europe, 2024

When planning your European adventure, choosing the right travel backpack is crucial. It can be difficult to choose the best travel backpacks for Europe. You’ll want something comfortable, durable, and spacious enough to carry all your essentials. Here are some top-rated travel backpacks that are perfect for exploring Europe.

Many travelers refer to these kinds of travels, with passion, as “backpacking Europe,” because a good travel backpack is so important.

Each of these bags is unique, and that’s what makes them so special, in my opinion. I’m pretty sure there’s a perfect travel backpack for everyone among these 15 options.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Travel Backpack

When choosing a travel backpack, there are several essential factors to keep in mind to ensure you find the perfect fit for your needs. Let’s delve into these considerations in more detail to make your decision.

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of your backpack are crucial aspects to consider. Think about the duration of your trip and the amount of gear you plan to carry. For shorter trips, a smaller backpack with a capacity of around 40 liters may suffice, while longer journeys may require a larger pack with a capacity of 50 liters or more. Having the right size ensures you can comfortably carry all your essentials without being weighed down.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is paramount, especially if you’ll be carrying your backpack for extended periods. Look for packs with padded shoulder straps that distribute weight evenly and alleviate pressure on your shoulders. A supportive hip belt is also essential for transferring weight from your shoulders to your hips, reducing strain on your back. Furthermore, adjustable suspension systems enable you to tailor the fit for maximum comfort, making long journeys more enjoyable.

Durability and Material

Given the rigours of travel, durability is key when selecting a backpack. Opt for packs made from high-quality materials like ripstop nylon or Cordura, known for their resistance to tears and abrasions. Investing in a durable backpack ensures it can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use, providing long-lasting reliability on your adventures.

Organization and Accessibility

A well-organized backpack can significantly enhance your travel experience by making packing and unpacking a breeze. Look for packs with multiple compartments, pockets, and organisers to keep your gear organised and easy to access. This not only saves you time but also ensures you can quickly locate items when you need them, enhancing convenience and efficiency on the road.

Top 15 Travel Backpacks for Europe 2024

Now, let’s dive into our top picks for the best travel backpacks for Europe in 2024.

1. Minaal Carry-On 3.0

Best Travel Backpack for Europe This backpack is specifically designed for European travel with its sleek, minimalist profile and carry-on compliant size. It also features a comfortable suspension system and a well-organized interior with plenty of compartments for all your gear.

Here are some of the key features of the Minaal Carry-On 3.0:

• Carry-on compliant size: 21.6in x 13.7in x 7.87in (55cm x 35cm x 20cm)
• Capacity: 35L
• Weight: 3.12lb (1.41kg)
• The new 600D Picton™ fabric is made from recycled yarn, increasing durability and attracting less hair and fluff.
• The NEW 1200D Picton™ fabric reinforces high-abrasion areas.
• The re-engineered Unified Harness™ is designed from the inside out for maximum comfort.
• Opens flat for easy packing and unpacking like a suitcase.
• Internal pockets are designed with a 3D shape to provide extra space and versatility, making them super handy!

2. Tortuga Outlier Backpack 44L

An excellent all-around choice for both short and long trips. It is long-lasting, comfortable, and packed with features to keep you organized while on the go.

Here are some of the key features of the Tortuga Outlier Backpack 44L:

• Advertised size: 44L
• Weight: Not available
• Comfortable suspension system
• Well-organized interior with plenty of compartments
• Lockable zippers on the main compartment for added security
• Duffel handle on the side for easy carrying
• Hip belt for added comfort when carrying heavier loads

3. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack:

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is specifically designed for women’s torsos and comes in a variety of fun colours. It’s also a great all-around option that’s perfect for both short and long trips. Here’s why travelers love it

• Carry-on compliant: Fits most airline overhead compartments with dimensions of 22″ x 14″ x 11″ (56 x 36 x 27 cm).
• Comfortable to carry: features a ventilated airflow back panel and adjustable shoulder straps.
• The interior is well-organized, with a suitcase-style opening for easy access, a padded laptop compartment for up to 15-inch laptops, multiple pockets for small items, and a hip belt with essential pockets.
• Built-in rain cover: Includes a rain cover for weather protection.
• Durable: Made with high-quality materials, the Allpa 35L is built to last through travel adventures.

4. Aer Travel Pack 3

Best Travel Backpack for Men Another great all-around option that’s perfect for both short and long trips. It is stylish, comfortable, and packed with features to keep you organised while on the go.

Here are some of the key features of the Aer Travel Pack 3:

• Carry-on compliant: With dimensions of 21.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches (54.6 x 34.3 x 21.6 cm), it should fit in most airline overhead compartments.
• Multiple compartments: The Aer Travel Pack 3 boasts a well-organized interior with a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit up to a 16-inch laptop, a separate compartment for clothes, a mesh compartment for dirty laundry, and additional pockets for smaller items.
• Comfortable carrying: The pack has a well-ventilated AirMesh back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for a comfortable fit, as well as a sternum strap and hip belt for extra stability when carrying heavier loads.
• Durability: Aer uses 1680D Cordura Ballistic Nylon, a high-quality and abrasion-resistant material, to ensure the Travel Pack 3 can withstand the rigours of travel.

5. NOMATIC Travel Bag

Best Travel Laptop Backpack This backpack is a great option for travellers who need to carry a laptop. It has a padded laptop compartment and plenty of other compartments to keep all of your equipment organised.

• Convertible Design: Switch between a backpack with hidden shoulder straps and a duffel bag with side straps for comfort. This offers flexible carrying options.
• Laptop Compartment: Features a padded section to safeguard your laptop while travelling.
• Organisation: The NOMATIC Travel Bag’s interior is well-organized, with compartments for everything, including a shoe compartment, a laundry section, and pockets for small items.
• Carry-on Compliant: Measuring 22.5″ x 14″ x 9″ (57.1 cm x 35.6 cm x 22.9 cm), it fits in most overhead bins. Always verify with your airline to ensure it complies with their size limits.
• Durability: Made with premium materials, the Travel Bag is built to endure travel demands.

6. Osprey Farpoint/Fairview Travel Backpack

 Most Comfortable This backpack is known for its comfortable suspension system, which makes it a great option for travellers who will be doing a lot of walking. It also comes in a variety of sizes to fit different torsos.

• Size: 40 litres, typically meeting carry-on restrictions for most airlines.
• Comfort: A well-ventilated back panel and adjustable straps ensure comfortable wear on long journeys.
• Organisation: Features a large main compartment, a separate padded laptop compartment, and mesh pockets for convenient storage.
• Durability: Built with recycled materials and water-resistant coating to withstand travel.
• Bonus: The backpack straps and hip belt tuck away for a cleaner look when checking the bag.

7. Peak Design Travel Backpack, 45L

Strong and Protective This backpack is a great option for travellers who need a durable pack that can protect their gear. It’s made from high-quality materials and has a weatherproof construction.

• Carry-on Flexibility: With a base capacity of 35 litres, which meets most airline carry-on limits, it can be expanded to 45 litres for additional gear. However, at 45L, it might exceed some airline size restrictions. Make sure to touch base with your airline before you fly!
• Organisation: Multiple compartments allow for easy organisation, as well as multiple access points to reach your gear.
• Durability: Made with high-quality, weatherproof materials to protect your belongings.
• Comfort: Equipped with a comfortable suspension system, adjustable shoulder straps, and a hip belt for balanced weight distribution.
• Other Features: Has a laptop compartment and a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.

8. Matador GlobeRider45:

Great Organization This backpack is a great option for travellers who want a pack with plenty of compartments to keep their gear organized. It also folds down into a small pouch when not in use.

• Organization: The GlobeRider45 features a well-organized interior with multiple compartments and pockets to keep your gear separated and easily accessible. This includes a large main compartment, a separate padded laptop compartment,  mesh pockets for dirty clothes or shoes, and external pockets for water bottles or quick-grab essentials.
• Durability: Built with water-resistant materials and YKK sealing zippers, the GlobeRider45 can withstand light rain and keep your belongings protected.
• Comfort: The backpack features a padded back panel with airflow channels and adjustable shoulder straps with a sternum strap for comfortable carrying.  While it doesn’t have a hip belt, some reviewers found it comfortable to carry for extended periods thanks to its efficient weight distribution.
• Packable: The GlobeRider45 folds into a small pouch when not in use, making it a great option for travellers who want to save space in their luggage on the return trip.

9. The Stubble & Co Adventure

Maximum Carry-On Capacity This backpack is a great option for travellers who need to pack as much as possible in a carry-on-sized bag. It features an expandable compartment that can hold up to 8 litres of additional space.

• Carry-on Versatility: Designed to fit within most airline carry-on restrictions, it boasts a capacity of 42 litres. It also has an expandable compartment that can hold up to 8 litres of additional space for those who overpack. However, double-checking the dimensions with your airline is always recommended.
• Sustainable Materials: Stubble & Co. prioritizes using recycled materials wherever possible in the Adventure backpack, making it a good choice for eco-conscious travellers.
• Organization: The backpack features a clamshell design that opens flat for easy packing and unpacking, similar to a suitcase. It also has multiple compartments and pockets to keep your gear organized, including a separate shoe compartment and a hidden valuables pocket.
• Durability: Built with water-resistant materials and reinforced stitching, the Stubble & Co Adventure can withstand the rigors of travel.
• Comfort: The backpack features padded shoulder straps and a removable hip belt for better weight distribution when carrying heavier loads

10. Gregory, Border Traveller 30: 

Best to Separate Dirty Items This backpack is a great option for travellers who want a pack with a compartment to separate dirty clothes from clean clothes.  It also has a comfortable suspension system and numerous compartments to keep your belongings organised.

• Split-case design: The unique feature of this backpack is its split-case design. One side features the ActiveShield compartment built with recycled auto glass and Polygiene Stays Fresh technology to inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria, perfect for storing sweaty clothes or dirty shoes.
• Organization: The other side features a large main compartment with organisation pockets to keep your clean clothes and other travel essentials neatly arranged. There’s also a dedicated external laptop compartment for easy access.
• Comfort: The Gregory Border Traveller 30 features a comfortable Ultra-Cush carrying system with a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for comfortable wear on long journeys.
• Durability: Built with recycled materials throughout the bag, the Gregory Border Traveler 30 is built to withstand the wear and tear of travel.

11. Osprey Sojourn Porter:

Best Overall This backpack is another great all-around option that’s perfect for both short and long trips. It is comfortable, long-lasting, and packed with features to keep you organised while on the go.

• Carry-on Versatility: The Sojourn Porter, with its 46-liter capacity, fits within most airline carry-on limits. Always double-check dimensions with your airline before flying.
• Comfort: It features an AirScapeTM ventilated back panel and adjustable shoulder straps, sternum strap, and hip belt for even weight distribution and comfort on long trips.
• Organization: This backpack has a large main compartment with compression straps, a separate padded laptop compartment, mesh pockets for organization, and a quick-access top pocket.
• Durability: Made with high-quality materials, the Sojourn Porter is designed to endure travel demands.
• Other features: Includes an add-a-bag strap for attaching to other luggage, simplifying travel.

12. MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack

Best Budget Carry-on A great budget-friendly option that still offers plenty of features for travelers. It has a padded laptop compartment, a main compartment for clothes, and a front compartment for smaller items.

• Carry-on size: While the exact dimensions aren’t readily available, it is advertised as a carry-on backpack. However, double-checking with your airline before flying is always recommended.
• Laptop compartment: A padded laptop compartment protects your laptop while traveling.
• Compartmentalization: It likely has a main compartment for clothes, a front compartment for smaller items, and possibly additional pockets for organization.
• Value for money: Compared to other backpacks on this list, the MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack is a more affordable option. However, it may lack some of the features or comfort of higher-priced backpacks.

Here are some things to consider when deciding if the MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack is right for you:

• Priority on affordability: If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize a basic backpack that can fit your laptop and essentials for a carry-on, then this could be a good option.
• Need for organization and comfort: If you value features like multiple compartments, a comfortable suspension system, or a specific size, then you might want to consider other options on this list that cater to those needs.
• Durability: While some reviews mention the backpack being durable, it may not be made with the highest quality materials compared to more expensive backpacks.

13. REI Ruckpack 40

Best Lightweight Backpack for Travel A great option for travellers looking for a lightweight rucksack. It’s made from durable materials, but it won’t weigh you down.

• Carry-on Versatility: With a capacity of 40 liters, it should fit in most airline carry-on restrictions. However, as with all backpacks, it’s always best to double-check the dimensions with your airline before flying.
• Organization: The Ruckpack 40 features a large main compartment with a top-loading design. It also has side zip pockets for water bottles or quick-grab essentials, and a hidden daisy chain on the front for lashing on additional gear.
• Durability: While REI uses ripstop nylon in the construction, it’s not the thickest or most abrasion-resistant material on the market. However, it features a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish to shed light rain and stains, and for harsher weather, there’s a stable rain cover included.
• Comfort: The Ruckpack 40 features lightly padded shoulder straps and a ventilated mesh back panel for airflow. It does not have a hip belt, which may be a drawback for some travellers carrying heavier loads.

14. Topo Designs Global Travel Backpack 40L:

Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel This backpack is a great option for travellers who are taking a long trip and need to pack a lot of gear. It’s still carry-on compliant, but it

• Lightweight: Made with thin, lightweight materials, the REI Ruckpack 40 is a good choice for travellers who are weight-conscious and don’t want to be weighed down by their backpacks.
• Carry-on Versatility: With a capacity of 40 litres, it should fit in most airline carry-on restrictions. However, as with all backpacks, it’s always best to double-check the dimensions with your airline before flying.
• Durability: While REI uses ripstop nylon in the construction, it’s not the thickest or most abrasion-resistant material on the market. However, it features a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish to shed light rain and stains, and for harsher weather, there’s a stable rain cover included.

15. Nomatic Navigator Lite

The Nomatic Navigator Lite is a travel backpack designed to be a lightweight and minimal option for everyday carry or short trips. Here’s a breakdown of its features to help you decide if it’s the right backpack for you.

• Lighter Weight: Compared to the standard Nomatic Navigator backpack, the Lite version is designed to be 20% lighter, making it a good choice for weight-conscious travellers or those who prefer a less bulky backpack for everyday use.
• 15 Liter Capacity: This is a smaller backpack compared to other options on this list. It’s ideal for carrying your daily essentials or enough for a short weekend getaway.
• Breathable Back Panel: The back panel is made of EVA foam for comfort and breathability, which is important when carrying your backpack for long periods.
• Luggage Pass-Through: A sleeve allows you to slide the backpack onto the handle of your rolling luggage for easier travel through airports.
• Water Resistant Materials: The backpack uses water-resistant materials to protect your belongings from light rain or spills.

Read More: Best Travel Gifts For Men

FAQs About Backpacks for Europe

What size backpack do I need for travelling in Europe?

The ideal backpack size for travelling in Europe is typically around 40-50 litres. This provides enough space to carry your essentials without being too bulky or cumbersome for navigating crowded streets and public transportation.

Are there any specific features I should look for in a backpack for Europe?

Look for a backpack with multiple compartments or pockets for organization, a padded hip belt and shoulder straps for comfort during long walks, and durable, water-resistant materials to protect your belongings from unpredictable weather.

Should I choose a backpack with a built-in lock for security?

While a built-in lock can provide added security, it’s not always necessary. Instead, consider using a separate lock or security device to secure your backpack when needed, especially in crowded tourist areas or on public transportation.

Is it better to choose a backpack with a frame or without one for travelling in Europe?

This depends on personal preference and the type of activities you’ll be doing. A backpack with a frame offers more support and stability, making it ideal for hiking or outdoor adventures. However, a frameless backpack may be more lightweight and easier to manoeuvre in urban settings.

Can I carry a backpack as a carry-on on flights to Europe?

Most airlines allow backpacks within their carry-on size limits, but it’s important to check the specific requirements of your airline before travelling. Keep in mind that you may need to pack strategically to comply with size and weight restrictions.

How do I pack my backpack efficiently for a trip to Europe?

Begin by creating a packing list of essential items, then prioritise them based on frequency of use and accessibility. oll your clothes to save space and use packing cubes or compression bags to keep items organised. Distribute weight evenly and place heavier items closer to your back for better balance.

Are there any restrictions on what I can pack in my backpack when travelling to Europe?

Be aware of restrictions on liquids, sharp objects, and certain electronics when packing your backpack for travel to Europe. Additionally, consider the cultural norms and regulations of the countries you’ll be visiting, especially regarding medications, food items, and souvenirs.

Should I invest in a rain cover for my backpack when travelling in Europe?

While not essential, a rain cover can provide added protection for your belongings during unexpected showers or inclement weather. Consider purchasing a lightweight, packable rain cover that fits your backpack size for added peace of mind.

Can I use my backpack for day trips and excursions while in Europe?

Absolutely! A versatile backpack can serve as your main luggage for longer trips as well as a daypack for exploring cities, hiking trails, or visiting attractions in Europe. Look for a backpack with removable daypack straps or a detachable daypack for added convenience.

Where can I purchase a quality backpack for travelling in Europe?

Quality backpacks suitable for travelling in Europe and can be found at outdoor retailers, luggage stores, and online retailers. Look for reputable brands known for their durability, comfort, and functionality, and consider trying on different styles and sizes to find the perfect fit for your travel needs.