Imagine this: you’re standing at the airport, ready for your big adventure, but your shoulders ache just thinking about the bulky, uncomfortable bag you’re carrying. Or maybe you’ve already been on a trip and regretted your backpack choice – too small, too heavy, or just plain awkward. Choosing the right backpack for international travel can feel like a treasure hunt with no map!
It’s a big decision because your backpack becomes your home on your back. You need it to be tough enough for any adventure, comfy enough for long journeys, and smart enough to keep your things organized. But with so many styles, sizes, and features out there, it’s easy to get lost in the choices. You might worry about paying too much for the wrong bag, or worse, ending up with a backpack that makes your trip harder instead of easier.
This post is here to help! We’ll break down what really matters when picking a backpack for your international travels. You’ll learn how to find a bag that fits your needs, keeps you comfortable, and makes exploring the world a breeze. Get ready to say goodbye to travel backpack stress and hello to smooth sailing on your next adventure!
Our Top 5 Backpack For International Travel Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Rcrirth Carry On Travel Backpack for Airplanes | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack for Women & Men | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
 |
MATEIN Carry on Backpack | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
 |
Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
 |
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Backpack For International Travel Detailed Reviews
1. Rcrirth Carry On Travel Backpack for Airplanes
Rating: 9.3/10
The Rcrirth Carry On Travel Backpack is a fantastic option for anyone who travels frequently or needs a versatile bag for work and play. It’s designed to be both stylish and practical, fitting seamlessly into your busy life.
What We Like:
- Excellent Craftsmanship and Materials: This backpack feels really well-made. The materials are thick and durable, showing great attention to detail in its construction.
- Smart and Organized Design: It features a dedicated 17.3-inch laptop compartment and a waterproof section, keeping your tech safe and dry. The main compartment holds about 35 liters, like a small suitcase. A hidden pocket on the back is perfect for your passport and cash.
- Expandable Storage: Need more space? Just unzip the expansion zipper to add an extra 2 inches of width. It still looks sleek and can be used as a daily bag without appearing bulky.
- TSA-Friendly and Versatile: The backpack opens flat 180 degrees, making airport security checks a breeze. It also easily converts from a backpack to a suitcase style for different carrying preferences.
- Perfect for Many Occasions: Whether you’re going on a weekend trip, heading to nursing school, or just need a reliable daily bag, this backpack fits the bill. It also makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: The description only mentions “Black,” suggesting there might not be other color choices available.
- Specific Material Details Missing: While the materials are described as “very good and thick,” more information about the exact type of material would be helpful for consumers.
This Rcrirth backpack is a smart choice for travel and everyday use. Its thoughtful design and durable build make it a reliable companion for all your adventures.
2. LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack for Women & Men
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready for your next adventure? The LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack is your new best travel buddy. It’s designed for both men and women, making it a versatile choice for anyone who loves to travel. This backpack is airline approved, so you can breeze through security and hop on your flight without any worries. It’s the perfect size to fit under your seat or in the overhead bin.
What We Like:
- It’s airline approved and fits easily on most flights.
- The 40L capacity holds a lot of stuff, perfect for 3-7 day trips.
- It comes with 3 handy packing cubes and a special wet pocket to keep things dry.
- The backpack is tough and water-resistant, built to last.
- Comfortable padded straps and back make it easy to carry.
- It opens like a suitcase for quick access at security.
- There’s a special padded spot for your laptop up to 17 inches.
- Side pockets are great for water bottles or umbrellas.
- A luggage strap lets you slide it over your suitcase handle.
- It makes a great gift!
- LOVEVOOK offers a one-year warranty and 24/7 customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very long trips, you might need a slightly larger bag.
- While durable, extreme weather might test its limits.
This LOVEVOOK backpack is a smart choice for travelers seeking organization and convenience. It’s a well-designed bag that simplifies your journey.
3. MATEIN Carry on Backpack
Rating: 9.2/10
The MATEIN Carry-on Backpack is a fantastic choice for travelers who need a lot of space. It’s designed to be the perfect size for airplane carry-on bins, and it can even grow bigger if you need more room. This backpack is great for weekend trips or longer vacations, and it’s suitable for both guys and gals.
What We Like:
- It expands to hold a lot more stuff, like packing cubes and outfits.
- It fits in overhead bins on many airlines like Easy Jet and Spirit.
- You can hide the padded shoulder straps and carry it like a briefcase.
- It has a strap to slide onto your suitcase for easy travel.
- The back panel is comfy and lets air flow to keep you cool.
- There are padded handles on the top and side for easy grabbing.
- It’s a great gift idea for holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day.
- The front pocket is handy for small items like your phone.
- Inside, there are straps to keep your clothes from moving around.
- The chest strap helps take some weight off your shoulders.
- External straps keep things from bouncing and can add a little more space.
- It’s made of strong, water-resistant material that can handle different weather.
- The zippers are tough and can be locked.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s expandable, the base size might feel a bit snug for very long trips without using the expansion.
- The “lightweight” description is relative; at 2.2lbs, it’s not the absolute lightest on the market, though still manageable.
This backpack is built tough for your adventures. It’s a smart and practical choice for anyone who loves to travel.
4. Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women
Rating: 9.2/10
The Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women in Pink is a versatile and stylish carry-on option designed for modern adventurers. This backpack is perfect for short trips, daily commutes, or even as a functional nurse bag. Its thoughtful design includes features like a USB charging port, a dedicated shoe pouch, and TSA-friendly access, making travel a breeze.
What We Like:
- The built-in USB charging port offers easy access to power up your devices on the go.
- Its roomy capacity and multi-pocket design keep your belongings organized and accessible.
- The flight-approved dimensions and 180-degree zipper make airport security checks quick and painless.
- It easily converts from a backpack to a handbag, offering flexible carrying options.
- The water-resistant material protects your items from light rain.
- It fits a 15.6-inch laptop and a 12.9-inch iPad comfortably.
- The water bottle pocket fits larger cups, like a Stanley 30 oz.
- It’s lightweight, making it comfortable to carry for extended periods.
What Could Be Improved:
- The backpack does not come with a power bank, so you’ll need to provide your own.
- While it’s water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof, so heavy rain might be an issue.
This Taygeer backpack is a fantastic companion for anyone who loves to travel or needs a practical bag for daily life. Its blend of functionality and style makes it a top pick for women on the move.
5. tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L
Rating: 9.0/10
The tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L is your ideal travel partner, designed for adventurers and business travelers alike. This bag is built to make your journeys smoother, from airport security to your final destination.
What We Like:
- It has a huge main space and lots of pockets to keep your stuff neat.
- You can get to your main items easily from the front.
- The laptop part opens flat, so going through airport security is a breeze.
- It’s made from recycled plastic bottles, which is good for the planet.
- The padded straps and back make it comfy to wear, even when it’s full.
- It has different handles and a strap to slide over your suitcase handle.
- It fits most airline carry-on sizes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The actual capacity can change a little depending on how you pack it.
- While it’s water-resistant, it might not be fully waterproof in heavy rain.
This backpack offers fantastic organization and comfort for your travels. It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants a reliable and eco-friendly carry-on.
Choosing Your Perfect Backpack for International Travel
Traveling abroad is exciting! A good backpack makes your trip much easier. This guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a travel backpack, keep these important things in mind.
Size and Capacity
- How much stuff do you carry? Backpacks come in different sizes, measured in liters.
- Carry-on size: For shorter trips or if you like to pack light, a 30-50 liter backpack is usually good. It fits in airplane overhead bins.
- Checked baggage size: For longer trips or if you need to pack more, a 50-70 liter backpack might be better. You’ll have to check this one in.
- Think about your travel style. Do you bring a lot of clothes? Do you need space for souvenirs?
Comfort and Fit
- Padded shoulder straps: These help spread the weight evenly. They stop your shoulders from hurting.
- Hip belt: A good hip belt transfers weight to your hips. This takes pressure off your back and shoulders. It makes a big difference on long walks.
- Adjustable torso length: Some backpacks let you change how high the straps sit on your back. This gives you a custom fit.
- Back panel: Look for a panel that is padded and breathable. It keeps your back cool and comfortable.
Organization and Access
- Front-loading (clamshell) design: This opens like a suitcase. It makes it easy to pack and find your things.
- Multiple compartments and pockets: These help you keep your gear organized. You can put smaller items in specific places.
- Laptop sleeve: If you travel with a laptop, a padded sleeve is a must.
- Easy access pockets: Pockets on the hip belt or side pockets are great for things you need often, like your phone or water bottle.
Durability and Security
- Strong zippers: Look for sturdy zippers that won’t break easily.
- Lockable zippers: Some backpacks have zippers you can lock with a small padlock. This keeps your belongings safe.
- Water resistance: A water-resistant backpack protects your gear from light rain.
Important Materials
The material of your backpack affects how long it lasts and how well it protects your things.
- Nylon: This is a strong and lightweight material. It resists rips and tears. Many travel backpacks use ripstop nylon, which is even tougher.
- Polyester: This is another durable fabric. It’s often used for its affordability and resistance to stretching and shrinking.
- Water-resistant coatings: Many backpacks have a coating, like PU (polyurethane), to help repel water.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good design and construction make a backpack great. Poor quality can ruin your trip.
What Makes a Backpack Great:
- Sturdy stitching: Look for strong, double stitching in high-stress areas.
- High-quality zippers: Brands like YKK are known for making durable zippers.
- Comfortable padding: Well-padded straps and back panels are essential.
- Smart pocket placement: Easy-to-reach pockets improve convenience.
- Good suspension system: This helps distribute weight effectively.
What Can Make a Backpack Less Good:
- Cheap, thin fabric: This can rip easily.
- Flimsy zippers: They can break and make it hard to get to your stuff.
- Lack of padding: Uncomfortable straps and back panels can cause pain.
- Poor weight distribution: If the weight isn’t spread out, the backpack feels heavy and awkward.
- Limited access to gear: If you have to unpack everything to find one item, it’s frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use your backpack.
- Backpackers: If you’re staying in hostels and moving around a lot, a front-loading backpack with good organization is perfect.
- Adventure travelers: If you plan to hike or do outdoor activities, look for a backpack with a good suspension system and durable material.
- Business travelers: A backpack with a dedicated, padded laptop sleeve and a professional look is a good choice.
- Weekend trippers: A smaller, carry-on sized backpack works well for short adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How big should my international travel backpack be?
A: For carry-on, aim for 30-50 liters. For checked baggage, 50-70 liters is common. It depends on how much you pack.
Q: What is the best material for a travel backpack?
A: Nylon, especially ripstop nylon, is very strong and lightweight. Polyester is also a good, durable option.
Q: Should my backpack open like a suitcase?
A: Yes, a front-loading or clamshell design is very helpful. It makes packing and finding things much easier than top-loading bags.
Q: How important is a hip belt?
A: Very important! A hip belt moves the backpack’s weight to your hips. This makes it much more comfortable to carry, especially for long periods.
Q: Can I take my backpack as a carry-on?
A: Many backpacks in the 30-50 liter range are designed to fit airline carry-on size limits. Always check with your airline.
Q: What if my backpack gets wet?
A: Look for backpacks that are water-resistant. They have coatings to help keep your belongings dry in light rain.
Q: How can I keep my backpack secure?
A: Choose a backpack with lockable zippers. You can also use a small padlock for extra security.
Q: Is padding really that important?
A: Yes, well-padded shoulder straps and a comfortable back panel make a big difference. They prevent discomfort and pain when you carry your backpack.
Q: What if I need to carry a laptop?
A: Many travel backpacks have a special padded sleeve for laptops. This protects your device.
Q: How do I know if a backpack fits me well?
A: Try it on with some weight in it. The shoulder straps should sit comfortably, and the hip belt should rest on your hips. Adjustable torso length helps get a custom fit.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!