In addition to the cavernous main pocket, along the sides there are four inner pockets, which are a little too small for anything other than socks and small personal items like toiletries. If you know youre going to be walking long distances (say, over a mile or so) with your pack on, you might want to consider one of our other picks. Any and all options, reviews, comments and analyses are the responsibility of the author(s) and not any Advertiser or credit card issuer. The cubes come in three sizes, and if theyre situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpacks side-access flaps for quick access. However, after testing, we werent thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. But if the straps are tough enough, it doesnt matter.. The Travel Bag has a built-in laptop compartment that fits most 15-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body. quasar But unless youre very strict with yourself, by the time youre packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty. On top of the case, the fast access zip pocket is perfect for keeping your essentials close at hand. Just as important, thanks to the adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system (borrowed from hiking backpacks), the Outbreaker is the most adjustable bag weve tested three years in a row. osprey There is also a dual-zippered end pocket for easy access to smaller items. With my cameras. osprey lightbagtravel Opening up your favorite carry-on travel backpackwith all your stuff in the right place and easy to reachshould feel like opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk. Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything, while others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. The hip belt isnt quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesnt pinch or dig into the body. The hip belt, which can be removed while the bag is on your back if you like, is still substantial enough that its comfortable to wear when you need it. Hip belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legsnot your backbear the brunt of the weight. It didnt quite fit the scope of this review because of its design. osprey Travel gear should feel like a welcome companionthere to support you when you need it, but unobtrusive when you do not. To compile our list of possible models, we scoured the world of travel blogs and product reviews (most driven by a similar affiliate revenue model to ours), including The Savvy Backpacker, Snarky Nomad, The Travel Hack, Nomadic Matt, The Travel Tester, Wheres Sharon?, Y Travel Blog, Lengthy Travel, and GearLab. Minaal Carry-on 2.0: This bag was designed to be the absolute best travel backpack for business people. There is a lot to love about it. When you are fully packed, the compression straps and padded sidewalls will help the case to keep its shape and remain stable, while the top and side padded handles make it easy to lift. sojourn osprey osprey kyte quasar Most Osprey bags are made of different types of nylon, making them water-resistant to a certain degree. Even if it were, Im not sure it would make the cut. Unlike our other picks, the Mother Lode is not for carrying over long distances, especially when its full. Flaws but not dealbreakers However, the credit card information that we publish has been written by experts who know these products inside out, and what we recommend is what we would (or already) use ourselves. Of course, if its not broke, dont fix it is an adage for a reason. Well continue to monitor the situation. This space is augmented by a separate front compartment and organization panel for quick access to mid-size items like a toiletry kit; a top compartment for keys, small books, or sunglasses; and a front pocket organizer for smaller flat items, like travel documents and wallets. For women, the Fairview model offers the same useful tweaks and additions designed to suit the female form. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Topo also includes built-in attachment clips, if you want to piggyback a smaller daily-carry backpack to your Travel Bag. We ended up with a list of 60 candidates and then narrowed this list down to 22 finalists using the following criteria: capacity, compartment design, aesthetics, reviews, and reported comfort. Both the shoulder sling and backpack straps are easy to access and feel about as comfortable as using a daily commuter bag. Based on how easy the bag was to carry over moderate distances, I recently suggested the Travel Bag to my sexagenarian parents when they traveled to Europe during their retirement. Flaws but not dealbreakers The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax or legal advice. It might be useful as a weekend traveler, but we dont think it would hold up for longer trips. I know people who love to do this. Bottom Line: Available in a huge selection of sizes, colors, and other variables, Osprey will have the perfect backpack, rucksack, duffel bag, or daypack for your next adventure. I want to travel with it.. When not in use, this travel duffel bag can be tucked neatly inside its built-in storage pouch and is ultra-compact to pop into your checked luggage. A trendy bag designed for men that can be used as a duffel or as a laptop carrier. After testing the cubes (and this is not a mark against the Eagle Creek or the Peak Design ultralight cubes, both of which are excellent), I personally still prefer the more-rigid Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal set, one of our longtime picks. It includes a lockable zipper, exterior pockets for water bottles or sunglasses, shoulder straps, and a hip belt to make carrying easier. Inside, the lid of the bag also has two mesh dividers, for a small amount of organization. The point is, you would really have to get into some trouble to need the repair program. The best bags are built to survive a lifetime of use and, if cared for properly, should be something you develop a bond with over time. Most bags expanding mechanisms arent worth the extra zipper theyre built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. And the flimsy waist belt is almost useless at distributing weight across your hips. As Iylana of Penny Caravan points out, smaller individuals may appreciate the lighter weight and more-compact design of the Farpoint or the Fairview (which basically have the same design, but the Fairview is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso). This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. When it comes to packing and storage, this sizable backpack has a large main compartment as well as dual access stretch mesh side pockets, a removable floating top lid, and a separate sleeping bag compartment, while the upper and lower side compression straps help your backpack to maintain a streamlined profile on the go. Though this isnt a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa is more flexible and lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back. osprey lightbagtravel No breathable back panel to allow airflow, No compartments internally to stay organized, Lightweight and available in a range of stylish colors, Has a dedicated sleeve to carry a hydration reservoir, Main compartment can only be accessed from the top, Has a separate shoe compartment to keep them away from clean clothes, Can exceed 62 linear inches if packed to capacity, 2 zippered hip belt pockets for quick access to items, A curved back panel makes the internal compartment an awkward shape, No bottom padding for setting the bag down. The Travel Backpack has few flaws. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. However, the intense design focus thats evident in the interior of the bag seems to have slipped a bit when it came to the exterior. The Allpa is the kind of bag you can toss as easily into an overhead compartment as you can into the back of a rusty pickup truck. This bag is ideal for hiking trips and accommodates all storage needs while on the go. This unisex travel backpack is available in black, grey, red, blue, and teal colorways and is Ospreys largest carry-on compatible luggage solution. Weve found seven backpacks thatll hold your laptop, and match your style, for everyone from tech-packing enthusiasts to chic minimalists. Its a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments. Capacity: 45 litersWeight: 5.1 poundsMain compartment access: clamshell openingStyle: minimal, with a rigid constructionColor: Black. (Chase Reeves has done an in-depth video review of these cubes; its a good resource for anyone whos on the fence about buying them.) The Topo is constructed with heavy YKK zippers and, similar to the Cotopaxi Allpa, has built-in zipper security loops (strong loops of fabric that secure your zippers when the bag is shut), if you want a touch more security. Several times during testing I considered just cutting it away. Panel-loading or clamshell opening for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with these bags, you want to be able to open them and see everything youve packed. I also spoke with moderators of Reddits r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful. But after comparing these bags to the TLS Mother Lode, we think youre better off paying twice the price for way more than twice the value. It includes an adjustable harness and hip belt for maximum comfort. The more comfortable and well designed the straps, the easier traveling will be. Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced, provided, or reviewed by the credit card companies mentioned. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. We spent six months testing 22 bags and flying across the country with all of our picks. These larger bags are not carry-on-friendly, though, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them. Though some people might need this, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage. Upgraded Points, LLC uses reasonable efforts to maintain accurate information on the site and p. rior to applying for any credit card offers found on UpgradedPoints.com, all visitors should review other features of such credit cards including but not limited to interest rates, annual fees and transaction fees, and should determine the suitability of such credit cards considering their own individual financial position. Functional and built to last, this is a great alternative to hardshell carry-on cases. It also constructs its luggage to the highest standards to ensure that every piece in its collection is built to last, reducing the need for the traveler to buy more, and ultimately creating less waste overall. Its not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away. Its a little too slim, though, for older laptops or laptop sleeves. A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. Subscribe now for unlimited access. ospreypacks North Face Overhaul 40: Theres still a devoted online following for this bag, but the Overhaul 40 appears to be plagued by production issues. This is a shame, since the bag could go from decent for the price to fantastic, especially at this price with just a few upgrades. There isnt one perfect bag to please everyone, but there are tools you can use to find whats best for you. osprey hikelite lightbagtravel But the Farpoint is in danger of becoming outpaced by bags with newer designs. Whether it's finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we'll help you get it right (the first time). The Outbreaker is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. But the design has gotten a little long in the tooth when compared with that of more-recent models. It features rain flaps for storms and a shoulder strap to help with multi-functional carrying. If you want to carry as much as possible, the Travel Bag also comes in a 40L model. But its a good feature, especially if youre committed to Topo gear in general. The biggest flaw, from our perspectiveapart from the priceis that the Tom Bihn lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. And it still feels larger than a normal daypack, but we think thats a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. This bag is a front-panel loader (which we find very easy to pack), organized around a main pocket that can fit two large packing cubes. If you want to keep researching your own pick, this spreadsheet is a great place to start. And if you dont mind the high cost, this bag will probably outlast your corporeal self. Travelers also love the front mesh pockets, the padded top and side handles that make it super easy to carry, and the front compression straps that hold your stuff tightly on the move. It includes a removable rain cover to protect belongings from the elements and features a trekking pole attachment that makes hiking easier. However, the credit card information that we publish has been written by experts who know these products inside out, and what we recommend is what we would (or already) use ourselves. The Farpoint is a firm favorite with all kinds of travelers. The accessory cubes cost extra, though. Those who travel for work will appreciate the Topos accessible front pockets and holders for organizing books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items. Flaws but not dealbreakers That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks, and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability, you need to buy the $30 internal frame, the $30 hip belt, and (if youre traveling with a suit or jacket) the $30 shoulder strap (all prices at the time of writing). It includes a dual-zippered compartment and an external hydration sleeve for water bottles. We may be compensated when you click on links from one or more of our advertising partners. I want to travel with it everywhere. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. We also have a guide to wheeled carry-on bags, which are designed to hold a lot of stuff while remaining easy to maneuver around airports. The Outbreaker is available as a 45-liter bag (the max space for a carry-on bag), which we tested, along with the 35-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Caleigh Waldman (the photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. Upgraded Points, LLC uses reasonable efforts to maintain accurate information on the site and prior to applying for any credit card offers found on UpgradedPoints.com, all visitors should review other features of such credit cards including but not limited to interest rates, annual fees and transaction fees, and should determine the suitability of such credit cards considering their own individual financial position. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. If theres one thing our staff has learned working remotely all over the world, its Dont check a bag unless you have to. Heres how to avoid it. atmos lightbagtravel backpacking For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. Flaws but not dealbreakers Im just really small and most bags packed to the brim always makes me somewhat top-heavy so that definitely limits my options. MEI Voyageur: Theres a lot to like about this bag, especially for the price. The straps of the Farpoint stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. Its probably decent at keeping rain off the zippers, but it felt finicky to us. Although the straps are thin, theyre comfortable. Get this if: You travel often for work and prefer a bag thats much easier to work out of than most of our other picks. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we havent had an issue. For women also looking to hit the road, the Aura model offers a similar specification with female-friendly dimensions. If you travel with a camera, you dont have to use Peak Designs camera cubes, but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The exterior pockets are great for accessible storage, and the interior compartment has dual zippers for safety. Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack whenever possible. But it is simply too expensive for most people. However, folks who have longer torsos (more than 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. The Osprey Farpoints high-contrast interior is easy to rummage through, even in low light. Lyra Pierotti, The Best Travel Backpacks, GearLab, November 17, 2016, Chase Reeves, Matterful.co, phone interview, October 10, 2018, Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag, email interview, September 8, 2018, Lindsay Lorraine Caldern, moderator, r/heronebag, phone interview, September 28, 2018. I want this backpack, she said after three weeks of travel. This does look to be a well-thought-out pack, but we think our picks are more versatile for world travel. The additional padding does add a lot of weight. That said, this bag is simple, sturdy, and stoic. See our Advertiser Disclosurefor more details. Across moderate distances, these straps do help with the bags overall weight. It features 1000D Cordura nylon and YKK zippers, and has a spacious design and decent shoulder straps. Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. A great starter option for one-bag travel, the Farpoint is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world. Ill definitely be keeping them in mind if not buying one of those that are listed. Similar to our other picks, the Travel Bag is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty and repair program from Topo. Perfect for those who like to adventure in the great outdoors, this backpack features a Stow-On-The-Go trekking pole attachment as well as a LidLock helmet attachment and an external hydration sleeve. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcases worth of clothes (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). Learn more. For more information on our advertisers, see here. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it. There are three ways to carry the Travel Bag: the top or side handles (there isnt a bottom handle, unfortunately), an optional shoulder sling (you have to buy it separately), or backpack straps (which stow in a zippable pocket when not in use). From your daily commute to round the world travel, there are backpacks, daypacks, duffels, and cases to suit every experience. osprey kyte