Embarking on an adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended expedition, hinges on having the right gear, and chief among that is a reliable backpack. Choosing from the vast array of options can feel overwhelming, but fear not, for this guide is here to illuminate your path. We delve deep into the world of travel packs, dissecting features, durability, and comfort to help you discover the ultimate companion for your journeys. Prepare to find the best tourist backpacks that will seamlessly blend functionality with your wanderlust spirit.
Navigating the complexities of backpack selection requires understanding what truly matters when you’re on the move. From spacious compartments and ergonomic designs to water resistance and security features, each element plays a crucial role in enhancing your travel experience. This comprehensive review and buying guide is meticulously crafted to equip you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision, ensuring your chosen backpack doesn’t just carry your belongings, but also carries your peace of mind throughout your explorations.
Before we get to our review of the best tourist backpacks, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Understanding Tourist Backpacks
Tourist backpacks are specifically designed to cater to the needs of travelers, whether they’re embarking on a weekend city break, a multi-week backpacking adventure, or a grand tour. Unlike standard daypacks or hiking packs, these bags prioritize organization, accessibility, and comfort for extended periods of wear while carrying a variety of essentials. They aim to be a mobile home, providing a secure and efficient way to transport clothing, toiletries, electronics, documents, and any other items needed for a journey.
A key feature of many tourist backpacks is their capacity and how that capacity is managed. They come in a wide range of sizes, from carry-on compliant models to larger expedition-style packs. Beyond sheer volume, thoughtful internal and external pocket configurations are crucial. Compartments for shoes, dirty laundry, and easily accessible pockets for snacks, water bottles, and travel documents are common, allowing travelers to find what they need without unpacking their entire bag.
Comfort is paramount when you’re on the move for days or weeks. Tourist backpacks typically feature padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum straps, and often a padded hip belt to distribute weight effectively. Ventilation systems in the back panel help prevent overheating during warmer weather or strenuous travel. The materials used are also important, with durable, water-resistant fabrics being favored to protect contents from the elements.
Choosing the best tourist backpacks involves considering your travel style, the duration of your trips, and your personal preferences for organization and comfort. They represent a significant investment in making your travels smoother and more enjoyable, acting as your reliable companion through airports, train stations, and bustling city streets.
Best Tourist Backpacks – Reviews
Osprey Farpoint 40 2020 Travel Backpack
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a perennial favorite for a reason. Its 40-liter capacity is perfectly sized for carry-on luggage on most airlines, maximizing your travel efficiency. The standout feature is its clamshell opening, allowing you to pack and access your gear like a suitcase. The internal compression straps keep your belongings tidy and compact, and the padded hip belt and shoulder straps offer surprising comfort for a bag of this size, even when fully loaded.
Beyond its excellent organization and capacity, the Farpoint 40 boasts a stowaway harness system that completely hides the straps when you need to check the bag or simply want a sleeker profile. The durable construction and reputable Osprey warranty provide peace of mind for frequent travelers. Whether you’re a minimalist packer or need a bit more space, this backpack strikes a fantastic balance between functionality, comfort, and durability.
Tortuga Setout 45L Travel Backpack
The Tortuga Setout 45L is engineered for the organized traveler who prioritizes accessibility and comfort. This backpack is designed to feel more like a piece of luggage, with a wide opening that grants easy access to all your gear. The well-thought-out compartments, including a separate laptop sleeve and mesh pockets, make it effortless to keep your essentials organized and within reach. The adjustable suspension system, complete with a padded hip belt and sternum strap, ensures a comfortable carry even on longer journeys.
What truly sets the Setout 45L apart is its focus on city navigation and efficient packing. It’s built to be carry-on compliant in most regions, and its slim profile prevents it from feeling overly bulky in crowded spaces. The thoughtful design includes a lockable main zipper for added security and a water-resistant exterior to protect your belongings from the elements. For travelers who value organization and a smooth travel experience, the Tortuga Setout 45L is an exceptional choice.
Patagonia Black Hole 45L Duffel Backpack
While technically a duffel, the Patagonia Black Hole 45L functions brilliantly as a travel backpack, especially for those who embrace a more rugged and adaptable approach to travel. Its bombproof construction, using robust recycled polyester ripstop fabric, means it can handle whatever you throw at it. The cavernous main compartment, accessible via a U-shaped zipper, swallows gear with ease, and the multiple internal and external pockets help with some basic organization.
The versatility of the Black Hole 45L is its major selling point. You can carry it by its comfortable padded shoulder straps like a traditional backpack, or by the grab handles. It’s incredibly water-resistant, making it ideal for adventurous trips or destinations where weather can be unpredictable. While it lacks the intricate internal organization of some other travel packs, its sheer durability and capacity make it a go-to for anyone looking for a tough, no-nonsense travel companion.
Aer Travel Pack 3 Small (35L)
The Aer Travel Pack 3 Small is a testament to minimalist design and maximum functionality, perfect for the modern traveler who values sleek aesthetics and efficient packing. Its 35-liter capacity is thoughtfully designed to maximize carry-on compliance without sacrificing essential space. The clamshell opening provides excellent accessibility, and the dedicated compartments for your laptop, tablet, and other tech gear are brilliantly integrated.
The attention to detail in the Aer Travel Pack 3 Small is truly impressive. The high-quality materials, robust YKK zippers, and thoughtful organization make it a pleasure to use. The stowaway shoulder straps and padded hip belt ensure comfort during transit, and the overall construction feels incredibly durable. For travelers who appreciate a clean look, smart organization, and a bag that can seamlessly transition from airport to city exploration, the Aer Travel Pack 3 Small is a top-tier contender.
Deuter Aviant Access 55+10 Travel Backpack
The Deuter Aviant Access 55+10 is a robust and highly adaptable travel backpack designed for longer journeys and those who appreciate a convertible system. Its generous 55-liter main compartment, expandable by an additional 10 liters, offers ample space for extended trips. The innovative feature here is the detachable daypack, which zips onto the main pack for convenient carrying and can be used independently for excursions.
The carrying system on the Aviant Access is exceptional. Deuter’s renowned suspension systems provide excellent load distribution and adjustability, ensuring comfort even with heavy loads. The clamshell opening and multiple access points make packing and retrieving items straightforward. While it might be a bit larger than standard carry-on, its flexibility and comfortable carrying system make it an ideal choice for backpackers and adventurous travelers who need a reliable and spacious pack that can adapt to various travel scenarios.
Why Do People Need to Buy Tourist Backpacks?
Tourist backpacks are essential gear for anyone embarking on a journey, offering a practical and efficient way to carry belongings. Unlike everyday bags, these specialized packs are designed with the needs of travelers in mind, prioritizing comfort, durability, and organization for extended periods of use. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-continental adventure, a well-chosen tourist backpack can significantly enhance the travel experience.
One of the primary reasons travelers invest in tourist backpacks is for their ergonomic design. Extended wear can lead to discomfort and strain if the backpack is not properly fitted and supported. Tourist backpacks often feature padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum straps, and padded hip belts that distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure on the back and shoulders. This thoughtful construction allows travelers to cover more ground and enjoy their explorations without being weighed down by an uncomfortable pack.
Beyond comfort, the organizational features of tourist backpacks are crucial for efficient travel. Multiple compartments, pockets, and access points allow for easy separation and retrieval of items, from travel documents and electronics to clothing and toiletries. This eliminates the need to rummage through a chaotic bag, saving time and reducing frustration. Knowing where everything is readily available can make navigating airports, train stations, and hiking trails a much smoother process, ensuring you can focus on the adventure itself.
Finally, the durability and versatility of tourist backpacks make them a worthwhile investment. Constructed from robust, weather-resistant materials, they are built to withstand the rigors of travel, protecting contents from the elements and accidental bumps. The ability to carry a significant amount of gear, often with expansion options, means one backpack can serve for various types of trips. Finding the best tourist backpacks tailored to your specific travel style and needs ensures you have a reliable companion for countless adventures to come.
Choosing the Right Size and Capacity
When selecting a tourist backpack, size and capacity are paramount considerations. Think about the duration of your trip and the type of activities you’ll be engaging in. For shorter excursions or minimalist travelers, a smaller capacity backpack (30-50 liters) might suffice, offering a streamlined and lightweight option. However, if you’re embarking on extended adventures, backpacking through multiple countries, or planning to carry bulky gear, a larger capacity backpack (60-80+ liters) will be necessary to accommodate all your essentials. It’s also important to consider that a backpack that’s too large can be unwieldy and encourage overpacking, while one that’s too small will leave you struggling to fit everything you need.
The volume of a backpack is typically measured in liters. While a 50-liter pack might seem adequate, factor in the compressibility of your gear and the need for extra space for souvenirs or unexpected purchases. For multi-day treks or camping trips, you’ll likely need a larger pack to carry sleeping bags, tents, and cooking equipment. Conversely, for city breaks or shorter travel, a lighter, more compact backpack will be easier to manage and navigate through crowded urban environments. Always check the dimensions and weight limits of the backpack, especially if you plan on flying, as airlines have specific regulations for carry-on and checked baggage.
Ultimately, finding the right balance in size and capacity is about matching the backpack’s volume to your travel style and needs. Try to visualize what you typically pack for trips of varying lengths and consider any specialized equipment you might need. It’s often better to have a little extra space than to be constantly struggling to zip up a pack that’s bursting at the seams.
Key Features to Look For
Beyond size, several key features can significantly enhance your travel experience. Look for backpacks with well-padded shoulder straps and a supportive hip belt; these are crucial for distributing weight evenly and preventing strain on your back and shoulders, especially during long walks. Adjustable torso length is another valuable feature, allowing you to customize the fit to your specific body dimensions for optimal comfort and support. The presence of multiple compartments and organizational pockets can also make a huge difference, enabling you to easily access frequently needed items like water bottles, snacks, or your phone without having to rummage through the entire pack.
Durability is a non-negotiable aspect of a good tourist backpack. The material should be made of robust, water-resistant fabric, such as nylon or polyester, to protect your belongings from the elements. Reinforced stitching, sturdy zippers, and reliable buckles are also indicators of a well-made and long-lasting backpack. Consider features like external attachment points or daisy chains, which are useful for securing items like trekking poles, sleeping mats, or even a wet jacket, keeping them readily accessible and freeing up internal space.
Don’t underestimate the importance of ventilation. Backpacks designed for travel often incorporate ventilated back panels or mesh systems to promote airflow, helping to keep you cooler and more comfortable, particularly in warmer climates or during strenuous activities. Access points are also worth noting; front-loading or panel-loading designs often provide easier access to the main compartment compared to traditional top-loading packs, making it simpler to pack and unpack.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort and ergonomics are the cornerstones of a successful travel experience, and your backpack plays a vital role in achieving this. A backpack that fits well will feel like an extension of your body, minimizing fatigue and allowing you to focus on exploring rather than enduring discomfort. This begins with the suspension system – the shoulder straps, sternum strap, and hip belt. Well-padded, contoured shoulder straps distribute weight across your upper body, while a padded, load-lifting hip belt transfers the majority of the pack’s weight to your hips, which are better equipped to carry it.
The adjustability of these components is critical. Look for backpacks that allow you to adjust the torso length, ensuring the hip belt sits comfortably on your iliac crest (the bony part of your hip) and the shoulder straps are positioned correctly. A sternum strap further stabilizes the load and prevents shoulder straps from slipping. Furthermore, the back panel’s design plays a significant role. Contoured, padded back panels with ventilation channels help prevent a sweaty, uncomfortable back, especially during warm weather or active travel.
Beyond the suspension system, consider the overall shape and balance of the backpack when packed. A well-designed pack will have internal compression straps to cinch down your gear, preventing it from shifting and creating an unbalanced load. The placement of pockets and external attachments can also contribute to ergonomics by allowing you to distribute weight strategically, keeping heavier items closer to your back and lighter items further away. Prioritizing these ergonomic features will ensure your backpack supports you throughout your adventures.
Packing Strategies and Maintenance
Once you’ve chosen the perfect tourist backpack, mastering efficient packing strategies and understanding proper maintenance will ensure its longevity and your travel convenience. The principle of “heavy items close to your back and centered” remains a golden rule for optimal weight distribution and balance. Place your sleeping bag or bulkier, lighter items at the bottom, followed by heavier gear like cooking pots or food in the middle. Lighter, frequently needed items, such as rain gear or snacks, should be placed in easily accessible top pockets or side compartments.
Utilizing packing cubes or compression sacks is an excellent way to organize your belongings, maximize space, and keep your backpack tidy. These also make it easier to find specific items without unpacking everything. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to reduce wrinkles and save space. Consider wearing your bulkiest items, like hiking boots or a jacket, during travel days to free up valuable backpack real estate.
Regular maintenance will significantly extend the lifespan of your tourist backpack. After each trip, empty your backpack completely and shake out any loose dirt or debris. Inspect the fabric for any tears or wear and tear, and check all zippers, buckles, and straps for damage. If your backpack gets wet, allow it to air dry thoroughly before storing it, and avoid direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can degrade the fabric. For cleaning, use mild soap and cool water; avoid harsh chemicals or machine washing, as these can damage the water-repellent coating and internal structure.
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Tourist Backpacks
Navigating the world of travel requires the right gear, and for many adventurers, a backpack is their most trusted companion. Whether you’re embarking on a whirlwind European tour, trekking through Southeast Asia, or exploring local gems, a well-chosen tourist backpack can make all the difference between a comfortable and enjoyable journey and a frustrating one. With countless options available, each boasting different features and capacities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide aims to demystify the process, helping you identify the essential factors to consider so you can invest in the perfect pack for your travels.
1. Capacity: Finding the Right Size for Your Adventures
The first and arguably most crucial factor in selecting a tourist backpack is its capacity, typically measured in liters. This dictates how much gear you can comfortably carry, and it’s a decision that should be tailored to the duration and nature of your trip. For short city breaks or weekend getaways, a smaller pack ranging from 20-35 liters might suffice, allowing you to carry essentials without being weighed down. If you’re planning longer excursions, especially those involving varied climates or requiring more specialized equipment, a capacity of 40-60 liters will likely be more appropriate.
Beyond just the liters, consider the internal organization. Does the backpack offer multiple compartments, a dedicated laptop sleeve, or internal compression straps? These features can significantly improve how efficiently you pack and access your belongings. Remember, it’s always better to have a little extra space than to find yourself struggling to cram everything in, so err on the side of slightly larger if you’re unsure, as many packs can be cinched down to accommodate less gear.
2. Comfort and Fit: The Foundation of a Great Travel Pack
Carrying your life on your back for extended periods demands a backpack that prioritizes comfort. This starts with proper fit. A good tourist backpack should have adjustable shoulder straps, a padded and adjustable hip belt, and a sternum strap. The hip belt is particularly important, as it should transfer the majority of the weight from your shoulders to your hips, significantly reducing strain. Look for backpacks that come in different torso lengths or have adjustable torso systems to ensure a snug and supportive fit for your specific body.
Padding is another key aspect of comfort. Well-padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel with ventilation channels will prevent discomfort and excessive sweating, especially in warmer climates. Consider the overall construction and how the weight is distributed. A backpack that feels balanced and doesn’t create pressure points when fully loaded is essential for enjoyable travel. Trying on backpacks with some weight inside is highly recommended to truly gauge their comfort and fit before making a purchase.
3. Durability and Material: Built to Withstand the Rigors of Travel
Your tourist backpack will likely face a variety of conditions, from being tossed around in baggage handlers to brushing against rough surfaces. Therefore, durability is paramount. Look for backpacks made from robust materials like ripstop nylon or heavy-duty polyester. These fabrics are resistant to tears, abrasions, and water, ensuring your gear stays protected. Pay attention to the stitching and zippers; reinforced seams and high-quality YKK zippers are indicators of a well-made and long-lasting pack.
Consider the weatherproofing of the backpack. While many packs are water-resistant, a fully waterproof backpack or one that comes with an integrated rain cover will be invaluable if you anticipate encountering rain. Some backpacks also feature water-repellent coatings, which can help prevent moisture from seeping into the fabric. Investing in a durable backpack upfront will save you money and hassle in the long run by preventing damage to your belongings and the need for frequent replacements.
4. Accessibility and Organization: Keeping Your Essentials Within Reach
Effective organization within your backpack can transform your travel experience. Top-loading backpacks offer simplicity, but panel-loading or front-loading designs often provide better access to your belongings, allowing you to open the pack like a suitcase. This eliminates the need to unpack everything to find a specific item at the bottom. Look for features like multiple external pockets for quick access to essentials like water bottles, snacks, or maps.
Internal organizers, such as zippered mesh pockets, dividers, and dedicated sleeves for electronics, can help you keep your gear sorted and easily locatable. Some backpacks also offer specialized compartments for items like dirty laundry or shoes, further enhancing their organizational capabilities. The best tourist backpacks are those that allow you to quickly retrieve what you need without disrupting your entire packing system, saving you valuable time and frustration on the go.
<h3<5. Features and Functionality: Tailoring Your Pack to Your Needs
Beyond the core elements, various features can enhance the functionality of your tourist backpack. Think about the type of travel you’ll be doing. If you’re a hiker, look for features like trekking pole attachments and hydration reservoir compatibility. If you’re a digital nomad, a padded laptop compartment and ample organizational pockets for cables and accessories are crucial. Some backpacks offer convertible designs, allowing them to transform from a backpack to a duffel bag or even a wheeled suitcase, offering versatility for different travel styles.
Consider the carrying system. While most backpacks rely on shoulder straps, some may have a stowable harness system that allows you to neatly tuck away the straps for checking as luggage. This adds an extra layer of protection and convenience. Additional features like external compression straps can help cinch down your load and improve stability, while daisy chains or gear loops can be used to attach extra items to the outside of your pack. Prioritize features that directly address your travel needs and preferences.
6. Weight: Balancing Capacity with Portability
While it’s tempting to opt for the largest capacity backpack, the weight of the backpack itself is a critical consideration. An empty backpack can weigh anywhere from 2 to 7 pounds or more, and this empty weight contributes to your overall load. A lighter backpack, even with the same capacity, will make your travels significantly more comfortable, especially if you’ll be doing a lot of walking or carrying your pack for extended periods.
When comparing backpacks, pay attention to the empty weight. Often, more features and robust construction can lead to a heavier pack. It’s a balancing act between the capacity and features you need and the overall weight you’re willing to carry. Prioritizing a lightweight design without sacrificing essential durability and comfort will lead to a more enjoyable travel experience, allowing you to focus on the adventure rather than the burden on your shoulders.
FAQ
What makes a backpack suitable for tourism?
A good tourist backpack needs to be durable, comfortable, and organized. Look for robust materials like ripstop nylon or polyester that can withstand the wear and tear of travel. Ample padding in the shoulder straps and back panel is crucial for carrying comfort, especially on longer journeys or when the backpack is fully loaded. Adjustable straps and a sternum strap help distribute weight evenly and improve stability.
Organization is key to a stress-free travel experience. Features like multiple compartments, dedicated laptop sleeves, easily accessible pockets for essentials like water bottles and passports, and internal dividers can make a significant difference. Think about how you like to pack and what items you’ll need quick access to.
How do I choose the right size backpack for my trip?
The ideal backpack size depends on the duration and nature of your trip. For weekend trips or carry-on only travel, a backpack in the 30-45 liter range is usually sufficient. For longer journeys, international travel, or if you tend to pack more, consider packs between 50-70 liters.
It’s important to remember that a larger backpack doesn’t necessarily mean more comfortable. Overpacking a large bag can make it unwieldy and heavy. Always consider your personal packing style and the type of activities you’ll be doing. Trying on backpacks with some weight in them at a store is highly recommended to gauge comfort and fit.
What features should I look for in a travel backpack’s suspension system?
A quality suspension system is vital for carrying comfort, especially when dealing with heavier loads or extensive walking. Key components include padded shoulder straps that are adjustable and contoured to your body. A padded hip belt is equally important as it transfers a significant portion of the weight from your shoulders to your hips, reducing strain.
Look for adjustable torso length to ensure the backpack fits your back properly, as this is crucial for optimal weight distribution. A sternum strap, which connects the shoulder straps across your chest, further enhances stability and prevents the straps from slipping. Some backpacks also feature a frame sheet or internal frame to provide structure and support.
Are waterproof or water-resistant backpacks better for travel?
The choice between waterproof and water-resistant depends on your typical travel destinations and the weather conditions you anticipate. A truly waterproof backpack offers complete protection against rain and immersion, which is ideal for adventurous travelers going to very wet climates or engaging in activities like kayaking.
However, most travelers will find a water-resistant backpack to be sufficient. These backpacks are treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating and often have water-repellent zippers. They can handle light to moderate rain, keeping your belongings dry from splashes and showers. For extra protection, you can always use a rain cover for your backpack, which is often sold separately.
How important is carry-on compatibility when choosing a travel backpack?
Carry-on compatibility is extremely important for many travelers, as it can save time and money by allowing you to avoid checked baggage fees and the risk of lost luggage. Airlines have specific size restrictions for carry-on bags, and many travel backpacks are designed with these dimensions in mind, often featuring a “clamshell” opening for easy packing and access.
When selecting a carry-on backpack, always check the dimensions against the specific airline’s regulations you will be flying with, as these can vary. A backpack that is too large may need to be checked, defeating the purpose. Many travel backpacks are designed to maximize internal volume within these carry-on limits.
What is the difference between a travel backpack and a hiking backpack?
While both are designed for carrying, travel backpacks are primarily optimized for organized packing and access to your belongings, often featuring suitcase-style openings and multiple compartments. They are generally more streamlined and less technical than hiking backpacks.
Hiking backpacks, on the other hand, are built for comfort and load-bearing over long distances on uneven terrain. They typically have more advanced suspension systems, external attachment points for gear, and are designed to carry heavier loads more efficiently. Hiking packs also often have a top-loading design, which can be less convenient for day-to-day travel organization.
How can I best organize the contents of my travel backpack?
Effective organization is key to maximizing space and easily accessing your belongings. Using packing cubes is a highly recommended method. These are lightweight fabric cubes that allow you to compartmentalize your clothes and gear by category (e.g., shirts, socks, toiletries), making it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything.
Consider utilizing smaller pouches or dry bags for toiletries, electronics, or important documents to keep them dry and protected. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. Finally, place heavier items closer to your back and in the lower portion of the backpack for better weight distribution and stability.
Final Words
Navigating the world of travel demands the right gear, and for any discerning globetrotter, a backpack is an indispensable companion. Our comprehensive review and buying guide has illuminated the path to finding the perfect travel partner, whether you prioritize rugged durability for off-the-beaten-path adventures, intelligent organization for seamless city exploration, or lightweight comfort for extended journeys. By understanding your unique travel style and the specific features that cater to your needs, you can confidently invest in a backpack that will not only carry your essentials but also enhance your entire travel experience.
Ultimately, selecting the best tourist backpacks is an investment in your comfort, convenience, and preparedness. Don’t let an ill-suited bag hinder your explorations; empower your travels with a thoughtfully chosen backpack that aligns with your aspirations. With the insights provided, you are now equipped to make an informed decision, ensuring your next adventure is packed with possibility and free from the burden of suboptimal luggage. Travel smarter, travel further, and travel with confidence.