After 46 hours spent researching the best travel backpacks, we think Teton Sports Grand 5500 Travel Backpack is the best for most people.
This choice is based on several criteria: dimensions, capacity, color, material, size, design, shoulder straps, hipbelt, carry handle, compression straps, extra storage, padded lumbar area, chest strap, weight, and warranty, among other things.
| Product | Price | Overall Rating | Quality | Durability | Appearance | Maintenance | Value for Money | dimensions | capacity | color | material | size | design | shoulder straps | hipbelt | carry handle | compression straps | extra storage | padded lumbar area | chest strap | weight | warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teton Sports Grand 5500 Travel Backpack | Check Price | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 34 x 15 x 17 in | Up to 44 L | Black | Oxford | M | Top-load | Padded | Padded, buckle | Not specified | Multiple | Front, sides, bottom | Yes | Yes | 6 lbs | 1 year |
 | Kelty Eagle 7850 Travel Backpack | Check Price | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 44 x 29 x 17.5 in | Up to 129 L | Brown | Nylon | L | Top-load | Padded | Padded, buckle | Top & side (padded) | Dual front | Front, sides | Yes | Yes | 10.7 lbs | 1 year |
 | Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Backpack | Check Price | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 24 x 13 x 13 in | Up to 55 L | Gray, green | 210D nylon | XS-S, S-M | Front-load | Padded | Padded, buckle | Top & side (padded) | Dual front | Front, bottom | Yes | Yes | 4.38 lbs | 1 year |
 | Osprey Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack | Check Price | 4.8 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 26 x 13 x 13 in | Up to 70 L | Red, gray | Polyester | S-M, M-L | Front-load | Padded | Padded, buckle | Top & side (padded) | Dual front | Front, bottom | Yes | Yes | 5.2 lbs | 1 year |
 | Gregory Denali Travel Backpack | Check Price | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 36.5 x 13.25 x 11.75 in | Up to 100 L | Black | 210D nylon, 420D nylon | XS, S, M, L | Top-load | Padded | Padded, buckle | Not specified | Multiple | Front | Yes | Yes | 7.59 lbs | 1 year |
Selection Of The Best Travel Backpacks
Here are the best travel backpacks for most people according to Outlinist:
Teton Sports Grand 5500 Travel Backpack
Whether you’re hiking, camping or making your way across the country, picking the right travel backpack is an important aspect of planning (and having) a good trip.
It may take some time, but when you find the right one, you won’t need another for a long time.
For some adventurers, lugging a suitcase around just isn’t very appealing. That’s why they turn to backpacks instead.
A good one is going to stay in good condition no matter how many lumps and bruises and battles it sees, so finding one made of durable materials is going to be key.
The more features it has, the more places it can go.
Information
The Grand 5500 features an adjustable harness that can be moved up and down for a customized fit.
For tough and long excursions into the great unknown, you need a backpack that can easily hold climbing ropes, snow shoes, skis or just a lot of clothes and gear. The Teton Sports Grand 5500 Travel Backpack combines a ton of features for every occasion with a price that you simply won’t find anywhere else.
With a capacity of 90 liters, it is considered the grandfather of Teton’s series of rough and tumble travel gear. Pack anything you need and still have space to bring a few things back for your friends and family.
Only available in black, it is made from durable treated 420D Oxford, and the pack’s shell can withstand extreme conditions – even surviving the baggage handling of airports, and is water-resistant.
| dimensions | 34 x 15 x 17 in |
|---|---|
| capacity | Up to 44 L |
| color | Black |
| material | Oxford |
| size | M |
| design | Top-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Not specified |
| compression straps | Multiple |
| extra storage | Front, sides, bottom |
| padded lumbar area | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes |
| weight | 6 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
The Grand 5500 features an adjustable harness that can be moved up and down for a customized fit. It also has an adjustable sternum strap to balance the load you’re carrying further and to top it all off there’s a safety whistle attached to the strap in case you need to alert others to an emergency situation or danger.
Seriously ready for anything, it is packed with features like a hip belt pouch, rings along the waist belt where knives can be clipped and plenty of pressure straps to secure your belongings, to name a few.
Teton is known for their amazing customer support and they firmly stand behind their product and their customers. If you have even the smallest issue, they are there to help you get back to exploring with this awesome bag.
Pros
A holster with buckles and straps under the lip can be used to fix ropes and tents.
Though it is made for extreme hiking or other outdoor adventure activities, the Grand 5500 can just as easily hold over a month’s worth of clothing while you’re on a dream vacation. Built for comfort and very roomy, beginners and professional travelers will love it.
- Top loading with lots of access: The main compartment can be accessed by simply unzipping the U-shaped opening on the front. In fact, this is a travel backpack with easy access to all your belongings as the main compartment opens from the back, side and bottom too.
- Perfect for long hikes in remote places: When going on extended outdoor adventures, this the load-hauling tool has the best travel backpack accessories. It can hold a full hydration bladder, has a hose port on both sides and even a compartment for a sleeping bag or blanket.
- Comfortable fit: The hip belt has a split wishbone structure that allows you to adjust the upper and lower parts of the pack separately for your most comfortable fit. This system also provides extra ventilation because of the large openings created, reducing hot spots on long hikes or walks.
- Numerous attachment points: A holster with buckles and straps under the lip can be used to fix ropes and tents. The bottom compartment has dual compression straps with buckles and then dual attachment loops and buckles near those. There’s also another holster attachment on the bottom.
- Keeps your things dry: The treated Oxford material is water-resistant, but not waterproof, which is why this pack includes a rain cover that can be used to keep the bag and its contents dry. The tarp can even be used as a poncho or makeshift shelter.
- Storage pockets: There are 2 stretchy mesh pockets and 5 zippered ones, including a large zippered pocket on the lid. How about a travel backpack with zip off daypack? Just remove the four buckles on the front and you can head off with a lighter load while you explore.
Cons
Though it is packed with a ton of unique features, is very spacious and highly versatile, the Teton Sports Grand 5500 has a few issues to be aware of before you take it out on your first big trip.
- Sometimes the top bag doesn’t fully close: The lid does not stay on straight; a travel backpack with a full zipper would be better than the interior closure it uses. Even when the lid’s pockets are empty, it has a tendency to slide forward, exposing the bag’s contents.
- Can’t handle a lot of weight: It may be a durable bag, but it does not do very well when holding over 40 pounds without buckling under the pressure. The dual metal frames don’t seem to be reinforced and can push through the bottom of the pack, tearing it.
- Need the right body type for the right fit: The harness can accommodate torso lengths between 16 and 22 inches and is the best travel backpack for men and women that are tall and broad. The straps and belts may not fit slimmer people.
Comparison
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 34 x 15 x 17 in | 44 x 29 x 17.5 in | 24 x 13 x 13 in |
| capacity | Up to 44 L | Up to 129 L | Up to 55 L |
| color | Black | Brown | Gray, green |
| material | Oxford | Nylon | 210D nylon |
| size | M | L | XS-S, S-M |
| design | Top-load | Top-load | Front-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded | Padded | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Not specified | Top & side (padded) | Top & side (padded) |
| compression straps | Multiple | Dual front | Dual front |
| extra storage | Front, sides, bottom | Front, sides | Front, bottom |
| padded lumbar area | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| weight | 6 lbs | 10.7 lbs | 4.38 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
A cool adjustable suspension system gives you a lot of control over the fit and comfort of the bag.
The Teton Sports Grand 5500 Travel Backpack comfortably takes you through extreme weather, tough terrain and extreme outdoor excursions.
A cool adjustable suspension system gives you a lot of control over the fit and comfort of the bag; you’ll be able to carry it comfortably for a long time. It has a ton of features, including plenty of attachment elements, which is where this travel backpack really shines. Though it has a capacity of 90 liters, be careful carrying any more than 40 pounds.
One of the best value travel backpacks out there, if you need a great pack that has all the features found on high-end brands, this is the right choice for your next adventure.
Kelty Eagle 7850 Travel Backpack
Airport escalators, narrow staircases and cobblestone streets aren’t always friendly to rolling suitcases, but uneven surfaces are no match for a travel backpack.
Thankfully, luggage has evolved past hard-sided suitcases, and life on the road is a little easier because of it.
There are many types of backpacks for packing up and exploring the world, some are for climbing and hiking while others are perfect for hopping from hostel to hostel in Europe.
A good backpack will travel well in a number of different environments and feel good being carried on your back for hours.
Traveling should be fun and your backpack should integrate seamlessly into your adventure.
Information
No matter what you pack, you’ll be able to comfortably carry the load. The pack may look bulky but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Not for the faint of heart, the Kelty Eagle 7850 Travel Backpack is a tactical pack meant to be taken out into the wilderness for at the very least a week. Kelty is a brand that has over 65 years of history creating well-designed, innovative and sturdy backpacks, and this one is no different.
When you first look at it, you’ll immediately notice that this isn’t just a regular backpack – this thing is huge. The travel backpack dimensions of the sack are 44″ x 29″ x 17.5″ and you’ll have a hard time filling up its 128 liters of space. You have more than enough space to fit a month’s worth of clothes in it and bedding too.
No matter what you pack, you’ll be able to comfortably carry the load. The pack may look bulky but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It uses dual aluminum stays for weight transfer and extra stability and has a sweat resistant back panel which is supremely padded and breathable.
| dimensions | 44 x 29 x 17.5 in |
|---|---|
| capacity | Up to 129 L |
| color | Brown |
| material | Nylon |
| size | L |
| design | Top-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Top & side (padded) |
| compression straps | Dual front |
| extra storage | Front, sides |
| padded lumbar area | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes |
| weight | 10.7 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
When you are walking for a few days (or hours) and every move you make is a drain on your energy, you’ll appreciate that this pack seamlessly integrates with a hydration bladder. It has two hydration ports and two reservoir sleeves, allowing you to hydrate with no effort whatsoever.
Spindrift collars are included and protect the main access point of the sack. Just pull the drawstring to fasten the compartment and then close the lid.
Available in Coyote Brown, the color perfectly fits the way you’ll feel with this sack as your travel companion: tough and ready for anything.
Pros
When heavy downpours start, you can rely on the travel backpack cover stowed in the pack’s bottom pocket.
The size and volume of the Kelty Eagle 7850 are completely justified by its purpose of carrying a lot of gear as comfortably as possible. Not just for extended hunting trips, it can just as easily be used to travel the world.
- Compartment organization: You’ve never seen a travel backpack organizer design like this. A zippered internal divider lets you store items separately, like dirty clothes. There’s another zippered compartment for sleeping bags. There are zippered lid pockets, 4 huge external pockets, 2 of which are detachable, and much more.
- Adjustable suspension system: You can adjust the backpack to closely fit your back and shoulders. Levitator belt supports, quick-release ergonomic shoulder straps and reinforced waist and chest belts distribute weight, reduce fatigue and provide stability. Dual load-lifter straps let you take the load off your shoulders at will.
- Detachable structure: You may not always need the space this beast of a bag has to offer. When that is the case, you can downsize the bag by removing the top lid and side pockets. Side compression straps can reduce the size of the bag even more.
- Protected from the rain: There’s always a time when rain comes and you aren’t ready for it. When heavy downpours start, you can rely on the travel backpack cover stowed in the pack’s bottom pocket. This integrated rain cover gives you a great way to protect your belongings.
- Convert it into a daypack: Imagine taking this huge piece of travel backpack luggage when you only need to take a short walk outside of your camp. When you only need a few items, the lid detaches from the rucksack and converts into a roomy sling pack or daypack.
- Durable: Extremely sturdy 500D Kodra Nylon makes up the backpack’s body and 1000D makes up the reinforced body. This advanced travel backpack nylon material is super resilient to punctures and abrasions. The HPDE frame sheet adds more resistance and firmness to the structure.
Cons
For what the Kelty Eagle 7850 offers, it is worth every penny. Bursting with cool features, its durability is unquestionable and its comfort on any terrain is superb. There are very few downsides to this expertly crafted bag.
- Some features compromise comfort: Two non-removable pouches flop around, creating slight instability that some people don’t like. It would be nice if they were glued to the body. The bottom sternum straps are only 3/4″ wide and can be a bit tight, especially when carrying a heavy load long distance.
- Can’t handle over 60 pounds too well: There’s little reason for most people to pack over 60 pounds of weight into this bag, and hopefully you never have to because it can’t manage the load that well. The HPDE frame sheet just isn’t suited for carrying that kind of weight.
- It is heavy: Be warned, this Eagle travel backpack bag is physically demanding. It weighs a little over 11 pounds when it is empty so you need to have the body to haul it when it’s fully loaded, especially on long journeys.
Comparison
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 44 x 29 x 17.5 in | 34 x 15 x 17 in | 24 x 13 x 13 in |
| capacity | Up to 129 L | Up to 44 L | Up to 55 L |
| color | Brown | Black | Gray, green |
| material | Nylon | Oxford | 210D nylon |
| size | L | M | XS-S, S-M |
| design | Top-load | Top-load | Front-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded | Padded | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Top & side (padded) | Not specified | Top & side (padded) |
| compression straps | Dual front | Multiple | Dual front |
| extra storage | Front, sides | Front, sides, bottom | Front, bottom |
| padded lumbar area | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| weight | 10.7 lbs | 6 lbs | 4.38 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
Standout features include the suspension system that is highly adjustable for surprising amounts of comfort and the sheer amount of storage compartments and pockets found inside and out.
A heavy-duty tactical pack, the Kelty Eagle 7850 Travel Backpack is highly flexible and durable. Capable of carrying a lot of stuff very comfortably and very far, if you are a seasoned traveler or about to take a long trip, this bag is the perfect travel companion.
Standout features include the suspension system that is highly adjustable for surprising amounts of comfort and the sheer amount of storage compartments and pockets found inside and out. Be careful to keep the weight around 60 pounds or performance decreases. The bag is also pretty heavy, but it shrinks in size by detaching some of its compartments.
Highly durable and infinitely useful, the only thing you have to ask yourself is: can you handle this travel backpack?
Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Backpack
Not only does a travel backpack make it easier to weave your way through huge crowds of people, it also lets you go hands-free.
When you’re not constantly focused on maneuvering a suitcase, you can concentrate on getting to where you’re going, or texting.
It can be tough to wade through the countless travel bag options, but it’s essential to find the right backpack that works for you.
Models with strong, thin material and a sleek profile are a good start.
When you find it, you’ll have the freedom that comes with having everything in one bag that takes up much less room on public transit and the plane.
Information
Not as rigid as other packs either, you’ll notice the walls of the bag don’t stand up on their own when it’s empty.
You don’t have to be a traditional backpacker to have heard of an Osprey backpack. They are some of the most popular packs out there because of their comfort, convenient features and super high quality. Typically made for men, the Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Backpack is the first one designed specifically for women.
The first thing to notice is that, unlike almost every other backpack you’ll find, it’s not black! There are two colors to choose from Misty Grey and Rainforest Green and both look great. The Misty Grey comes with contrasting aqua blue detailing which is a nice touch.
Not as rigid as other packs either, you’ll notice the walls of the bag don’t stand up on their own when it’s empty. For general travel, which is what its best suited for, this lack of bulk is useful and adds to its versatility.
| dimensions | 24 x 13 x 13 in |
|---|---|
| capacity | Up to 55 L |
| color | Gray, green |
| material | 210D nylon |
| size | XS-S, S-M |
| design | Front-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Top & side (padded) |
| compression straps | Dual front |
| extra storage | Front, bottom |
| padded lumbar area | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes |
| weight | 4.38 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
Taking the female form into consideration, the fit features an ergonomically shaped harness, hip belt and back panel. The shoulder yoke has also been altered to be narrower. All of these changes work together for increased overall comfort.
Constructed from 210D nylon mini hex diamond ripstop material, you can feel the durability. Measuring 30 x 16 x 6 inches, the Fairview 55 also features a lightweight internal alloy frame which is a major benefit to keeping the pack light for its size.
Ideal for the average lady traveler or backpacker, this bag is spacious, comfortable, well-constructed and comes equipped with a ton of features that will certainly make your next trip better than your last.
Pros
When you’re not wearing the backpack, the shoulder straps, hip belt and harness can be safely zipped away behind a protective back panel, preventing damage when traveling by car and plane.
With a streamlined, lightweight design, the Fairview 55 is for the globetrotting woman who only knows one speed: fast. It is packed with a ton of travel-minded features and offers the durability, quality and craftsmanship people have come to expect in an osprey travel backpack.
- Makes it easy to ditch traditional luggage: The main compartment’s zipper extends to the base of the pack, opening like standard luggage. Quick access to your things, a mesh zippered pocket for items like dirty laundry, and compression straps for holding things in place make you forget this is a travel backpack instead of suitcase.
- Suspension system provides ultimate comfort: You’ll be comfortable wearing this backpack for long periods of time thanks to its padded adjustable shoulder straps with breathable mesh for ventilation and a padded back for lumbar support. The travel backpack hip belt is a standout as it transfers weight from your shoulders to your hips.
- Detachable daypack: The travel backpack detachable daypack offers 13 liters of additional organization and storage and is perfect to for a hands-free day out on the town. It includes a padded laptop sleeve zippered pocket within the main compartment and an external scratch-free electronics pocket.
- Stowaway rear flap: When you’re not wearing the backpack, the shoulder straps, hip belt and harness can be safely zipped away behind a protective back panel, preventing damage when traveling by car and plane. Its smart construction really makes it one of the best women’s travel backpacks.
- Multiple carrying options: You won’t always feel like carrying the pack on your back, especially when only traveling a short distance. Padded side and top handles allow you to carry it almost like a weekend bag and also come in handy when loading/unloading the bag.
- Two-in-one system provides major versatility: The daypack can be zipped onto the back of the main pack and tightened with compression straps or it can be clipped to the front of the main bag for a kangaroo/turtle attachment style, a good feature for quickly accessing items without removing the bag.
Cons
The size and capacity of the Osprey Fairview 55 makes it a great option for general adventure travel and backpacking. There are very few areas that can truly be critiqued and even then they don’t spoil all that’s great about the pack.
- More pockets please: The main bag doesn’t have external pockets, which would be nice for housing accessories. It would also be nice to have at least one internal pocket along with the mesh pocket, though it does have external attachment points and Osprey has packing cubes for more organization.
- Rain cover not included: It’s common and understandable that frequent travelers want rain covers for their backpacks as conditions can change at any moment. It would have been great if Osprey had included a standard one with the pack, but you can always purchase one separately.
- Daypack not as comfortable to carry: While the main pack’s awesome suspension system makes carrying it quite comfortable, the daypack doesn’t feature that same design. After carrying it for about 2 to 3 hours, it can start to wear on you depending on what’s in it of course.
Comparison
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 24 x 13 x 13 in | 34 x 15 x 17 in | 44 x 29 x 17.5 in |
| capacity | Up to 55 L | Up to 44 L | Up to 129 L |
| color | Gray, green | Black | Brown |
| material | 210D nylon | Oxford | Nylon |
| size | XS-S, S-M | M | L |
| design | Front-load | Top-load | Top-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded | Padded | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Top & side (padded) | Not specified | Top & side (padded) |
| compression straps | Dual front | Multiple | Dual front |
| extra storage | Front, bottom | Front, sides, bottom | Front, sides |
| padded lumbar area | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| weight | 4.38 lbs | 6 lbs | 10.7 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
Two bags in one, the 40 liter main bag uses heavy padding and a legit hip belt to provide ultra-comfort while walking long distances.
The Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Backpack is a solid and well-designed travel bag that manages to be lightweight while also fully loaded with cool travel features women travelers will enjoy.
Two bags in one, the 40 liter main bag uses heavy padding and a legit hip belt to provide ultra-comfort while walking long distances and the 13 liter detachable day bag, though less comfortable after a few hours, is perfect for carrying essentials on short city trips. The bag offers lockable zippers for security and stowaway features that increase its durability during travel.
For those who were waiting on an Osprey travel backpack women’s version, it does not disappoint and has everything their renowned travel backpacks are known for.
Osprey Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack
When traveling often, many people quickly learn that a travel backpack fits their style far better than a suitcase does.
If you’re tempted to hit the road with a backpack, finding the right one is the key to an awesome hands-free journey.
Top loading packs are great for multi-day journeys or when you’re engaged in outdoor activities, and front loaders, or clamshells, are good if you only want to travel with one bag.
If you’re worried about carrying weight, look for load lifter features to help you out.
With the evolution of travel bags, there’s going to be one that fits your needs.
Information
This 70 liter bag can fit a lot in it which increases its versatility. With its big volume, it can be taken with you on some pretty big journeys.
One of the best travel backpack brands, Osprey bags are known for their quality and their lifetime guarantee, which lets you know how strongly they believe in the gear they produce. The Osprey Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack, one of their most popular models, is found on travelers everywhere.
Available in Volcanic Grey and Jasper Red, the Farpoint 70 comes in two different sizes: small/medium which accommodates torsos 15-19 inches and medium/large which is for torso heights 18-22 inches. The small/medium weighs 3.75 pounds and the medium/large is 3 pounds and 15 ounces.
This 70 liter bag can fit a lot in it which increases its versatility. With its big volume, it can be taken with you on some pretty big journeys. The main compartment includes laptop and tablet sleeves and a smaller scratch free pocket for stashing sunglasses or other small items.
| dimensions | 26 x 13 x 13 in |
|---|---|
| capacity | Up to 70 L |
| color | Red, gray |
| material | Polyester |
| size | S-M, M-L |
| design | Front-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Top & side (padded) |
| compression straps | Dual front |
| extra storage | Front, bottom |
| padded lumbar area | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes |
| weight | 5.2 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
Load this pack up with heavy mountain equipment or months of wardrobe. If you still need extra space, there are attachment points sewn onto the outside of the pack so you secure some more gear.
All of these features are packed into a bag with a nice overall aesthetic and sleek profile that is less rigid than other bags you’ll come across, which makes it easier to fit into tight or awkward spaces.
Made from 210D ripstop nylon and 600D packcloth, the Farpoint 70 is a very durable bag. It is comfortable, versatile and has a lot of cool travel features that travelers of all sizes and shapes are able to enjoy.
Pros
The Osprey Farpoint 70 has a wide hip belt that effectively moves weight to your hips from your shoulders.
There’s more than one reason you’ll find this pack on every top 5 best travel backpack list. Osprey’s Farpoint 70 suits just about every kind of travel situation and traveler, provides a huge amount of space, and is built to last you a lifetime.
- Confident and secure travel: This front-loading travel backpack opens like a suitcase which makes packing, unpacking and accessing the items you need much easier. It also has a heavy-duty lockable zipper that keeps everything safe and dual compression straps that keep items in place during transit.
- Detachable daypack: An Osprey travel backpack with a daypack that can be detached, it has a laptop sleeve, 2 mesh side pockets and a small front pocket. It’s 15 liters, enough room for a change of clothing and can be used as hand luggage at the airport.
- Excellent carry system: Most backpacks have some kind of carry system of belts and harnesses, but the Osprey Farpoint 70 has a wide hip belt that effectively moves weight to your hips from your shoulders, and the harness includes an adjustable load-lifter and chest strap for a customized fit.
- Zippered rear panel: When you aren’t actually carrying the bag on your back, a small panel in the back is included so you can tuck the harness, shoulder straps and hip belt away. This keeps the carry system from getting damaged through rough handling when you’re traveling.
- Comfortable carrying for the long and short haul: Well-padded hip and shoulder straps keep the bag from cutting into your skin which is great for the times you get lost wandering around for hours. When you are walking short distances, top and side handles let you carry it like a suitcase.
- Two carrying options: The Osprey travel backpack Farpoint 70’s detachable pack can be worn two ways. It can be zipped and clipped to the back of the main pack or it can be clipped to the front of the pack, balancing the load and providing easier access to important items.
Cons
A pack as popular the Osprey Farpoint 70 means that hundreds and hundreds of people have had the chance to find faults with it. The crazy thing is, there are just very few to find. That’s how good it is.
- Awkward to carry when full: If you keep the daypack attached to the back of the pack and fill both, it noticeably shifts your center of mass further back and pulls you back as well. The backpack is best kept no more than three-quarters full.
- More inside compartments or pockets please: Although the main pack has a large mesh pocket in the main compartment, it doesn’t include any other compartments and there are no internal pockets. Of course, that’s what Osprey’s packing cubes are for, but a few more pockets would be nice.
- Daypack could be larger and more comfortable: The daypack is small, especially compared to the main pack. It doesn’t have a usable storage area for water bottles or enough pockets. It also doesn’t carry as well; a hip belt would be useful to take the strain off the shoulders.
Comparison
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 26 x 13 x 13 in | 34 x 15 x 17 in | 44 x 29 x 17.5 in |
| capacity | Up to 70 L | Up to 44 L | Up to 129 L |
| color | Red, gray | Black | Brown |
| material | Polyester | Oxford | Nylon |
| size | S-M, M-L | M | L |
| design | Front-load | Top-load | Top-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded | Padded | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Top & side (padded) | Not specified | Top & side (padded) |
| compression straps | Dual front | Multiple | Dual front |
| extra storage | Front, bottom | Front, sides, bottom | Front, sides |
| padded lumbar area | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| weight | 5.2 lbs | 6 lbs | 10.7 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
The detachable daypack, though lacking the same comfort and spaciousness, will serve you well on a day trip.
Lightweight and compact enough for great portability, you’ll enjoy traveling with the well-designed Osprey Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack. Whether you are doing short or long-term trips or heading to various climates, it can carry everything you need.
The suspension frame makes for comfortable carrying and when you no longer need it, the hip belt, harness and shoulder straps can be tucked out of harm’s way. The detachable daypack, though lacking the same comfort and spaciousness, will serve you well on a day trip. Be careful when loading it to the max as your balance can be thrown off, so you may want to use the packs separately.
With high levels of versatility and customization, this durable travel backpack is going to make every journey better.
Gregory Denali Travel Backpack
For a long time only outdoorsy people and climber types knew the beauty of the travel backpack, but the idea is catching on.
More and more people are abandoning their rolling bags in favor of hands-free travel that keeps you light on your feet.
If you are interested in one-bag travel, comfort is going to be a big deal, especially if you’ll be walking around for hours at a time.
A high quality harness that works with your body shape extends how long you can walk comfortably with a backpack.
Sternum straps and load-lifting features also make carrying a month worth of shoes and shirts or gear easier too.
Information
Top-loading packs, like this one, are perfect for long days of trekking.
Sometimes there’s something in a name. The Gregory Denali Travel Backpack being named after North America’s highest mountain peak should let you know what this bag is all about. It is a fantastic expedition backpack.
This bag is serious business; you can tell from the fact that the only color is black, and not just black but Basalt Black. It has a very clean aesthetic, a nice finish and a good geometrical design.
Top-loading packs, like this one, are perfect for long days of trekking. There’s no way a main zipper can fail you while you’re in the middle of climbing Mount Everest. The normal pitfalls of a top loader are side-stepped by the full length zipper that allows you to access your map and headlamp quickly.
| dimensions | 36.5 x 13.25 x 11.75 in |
|---|---|
| capacity | Up to 100 L |
| color | Black |
| material | 210D nylon, 420D nylon |
| size | XS, S, M, L |
| design | Top-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Not specified |
| compression straps | Multiple |
| extra storage | Front |
| padded lumbar area | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes |
| weight | 7.59 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
Weighing a hefty 6.3 pounds, this monster of a bag is designed to haul loads of heavy gear to base camp. The compression system, side pockets and daisy chain let you hold a lot of different equipment on the outside. An extra set of straps and the removable lid give this pack the ability to do much more than just a trek to base camp.
Made from 210D and 420D nylon, it is puncture resistant and incredibly durable. You won’t need another backpack for a while.
Comfortably enter the harshest terrain carrying a ton of gear with this pack as it is made to conform to the needs of each day. You’ll be able to handle any situation with confidence that this bag can be relied on.
Pros
The hip belt has specifically designed pull loops that let you pull expedition sleds efficiently.
An extraordinary pack, the Denali backpack by Gregory can carry much more weight than you may want it to and can do it without breaking a sweat. For hauling food, cameras and gear into the back country or up mountains, there’s no better travel backpack for men or women.
- Well designed for carrying big loads: The Denali uses the best travel backpack design for carrying heavy loads. Thanks to the suspension, you can carry hundreds of pounds with no issue. And the back is made of dual frame sheets connected by dual aluminum stays, keeping the panel flat when the bag is overstuffed.
- Thick padding for a comfortable climb: Considered to be one of the best large travel hiking backpacks, the thick, stiff padding of the Denali feels like a cloud hugging your back. It also comes in handy when you are fighting gusty winds or juggling lines on steep ice as it ensures your movements and keeps your balance transferred to the pack.
- Climb with a nice range of motion: The shoulder strap design gently curves away from your head and a semi-circular head cutout provides greater range of motion and improved neck and head comfort. With this best travel backpack for professional climbing, you will be able to enjoy conquering new heights.
- Impressive pull loops make hauling sleds easier: The hip belt has specifically designed pull loops that let you pull expedition sleds efficiently. The rigging of these sewn-in hauling points provide a high amount of balance and impressive comfort. The sled rides smoother without a noticeable difference in bulk or hassle.
- Tons of pockets: The lid, alone, has three pockets. Expandable mesh pockets on both sides are perfect for tent poles or tripods. There’s also a dedicated avalanche safety pocket for probes, shovels or anything else. For intense climbs you’ll need the best travel backpack with lots of pockets.
- Durable construction: The material is durable, but that’s not the whole story. You won’t hear a single squeak when hauling hundreds of pounds or notice any damage to the stitching or seams. The straps and buckles won’t slip at all under pressure.
Cons
The Gregory Denali Travel Backpack can handle much more than you probably will need to, but anywhere you can walk, it can bring a huge amount of gear right with you. Though important to know, the gripes about this bag are pretty minor.
- Made for expeditions and not much else: There is not much versatility with this pack. It’s not for a day of ice climbing or backcountry skiing. Trips of less than a week don’t require this much space. It carries best when mostly full or full and is awkward and heavy when empty.
- Awkward ice axe attachment system: A Velcro loop secures the axe but clips across the pack’s side. This is a bit frustrating as it binds the items lashed to the outside of the pack. You’ll have two items to keep track of when you only want to grab the axe.
- Needs beefier zippers: A travel backpack with large pockets like the ones on this bag should have zippers to match. Unfortunately, the design didn’t include zippers strong enough for the, heavy-handed, harsh handling that is certain to be used in extreme weather.
Comparison
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| dimensions | 36.5 x 13.25 x 11.75 in | 34 x 15 x 17 in | 44 x 29 x 17.5 in |
| capacity | Up to 100 L | Up to 44 L | Up to 129 L |
| color | Black | Black | Brown |
| material | 210D nylon, 420D nylon | Oxford | Nylon |
| size | XS, S, M, L | M | L |
| design | Top-load | Top-load | Top-load |
| shoulder straps | Padded | Padded | Padded |
| hipbelt | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle | Padded, buckle |
| carry handle | Not specified | Not specified | Top & side (padded) |
| compression straps | Multiple | Multiple | Dual front |
| extra storage | Front | Front, sides, bottom | Front, sides |
| padded lumbar area | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| chest strap | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| weight | 7.59 lbs | 6 lbs | 10.7 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
Surprisingly comfortable due to the frame sheet’s head-shaped cutout and angled frame, you enjoy more range of motion.
Boasting a massive volume capacity and overbuilt suspension, the Gregory Denali Travel Backpack is perfect for camping or expedition-sized loads. A workhorse by design, you will never have to worry about the bag failing at the wrong moment.
Its construction is tough, being able to haul and carry hundreds of pounds without a squeak. Surprisingly comfortable due to the frame sheet’s head-shaped cutout and angled frame, you enjoy more range of motion. Though the axe system is a little odd and the zippers aren’t as robust as they could be, the large number of pockets and hauling capabilities more than make up for both.
Optimized for big, weeks-long climbs, this travel backpack is specially tailored for the needs of climbers.
Sources
- Benefits of Using a Travel Backpack When Traveling, Georgia State Accounting Office, May 31, 2016
- Travel Tips for Backpackers, Campers and Fishers , Transportation Security Administration, May 13, 2014
- 10 popular backpacks brands on campus, The Daily Universe, Apr 26, 2016
- Top 5 Pieces of Gear You Need for Travel Video and Photography, New York Film Academy, Dec 22, 2017
- Backpacking (travel), Wikipedia
- The Best Travel Backpack, The Wirecutter, Nov 20, 2017
- Travel Backpacks at REI, REI.com
- The Best Travel Backpacks Are Like SUVs You Can Wear, GQ, Jul 9, 2018
- Travel Backpacks, Eastpak
- Backpacks for travel, Wikipedia
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