Looking for the greatest travel bag for your next trip to Europe? When searching for a backpack to carry you through a variety of scenarios and places, you have several factors you should consider.
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Of course, finding a travel bag that checks all the boxes may be difficult. Whether you’re planning for an overnight city trip or a one-week hiking trip, you want the best travel backpack for Europe for 2023, and we have just the right list for that.
| Image | Brand | Main Compartment’s Volume | Dimensions | Zip-Off Daypack | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
BEST OVERALL   | Osprey | 40 Litres | 21 x 14 x 9 inches | No | Check price |
PREMIUM PICK   | NOMATIC | 40 Litres | 9 x 21 x 14 inches | No | Check price |
BEST VALUE   | Venture Pal | 40 Litres | 20 x 13 x 7.5 inches (unfolded) 9 x 8.5 x 2.2 inches (folded) | No | Check price |
  | Herschel | 25 Litres | 19.25 x 11.25 x 7 inches | No | Check price |
  | JanSport | 25 Litres | 16.7 x 13 x 8.5 inches | No | Check price |
  | The North Face | 28 Litres | 19.75 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches | No | Check price |
  | Hynes Eagle | 40 Litres | 18.1 x 13 x 3.3 inches (Large) 14.2 x 10.2 x 3.3 inches (Medium) 11.4 x 7.1 x 3.1 inches (Small) | No | Check price |
  | Pacsafe | 65 Litres | 21.7 x 13.8 x 8.7 inches | No | Check price |
  | Gregory | 65 Litres | 8.6 x 15.2 x 24.3 inches | No | Check price |
  | Mountain Warehouse | 60 Litres | 28 x 16 x 4 inches | Yes | Check price |
1. Osprey Farpoint 40 Litres
- Main compartment accessibility through a lockable U-style zipper
- A laptop compartment zipper access
- Two extra front-pockets for water bottles
- Scratch-free compartment for lenses and sunglasses
Osprey has survived the test of time, manufacturing high-quality bags for decades. Overall, if you want very robust carry-on luggage, then the Osprey Farpoint is the perfect choice.
It’s ideal for those who want to travel light. However, if you want a more sophisticated backpack with advanced features, you may need to look elsewhere.
Nonetheless, Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee is a blessing for many travelers. This means that if you have an issue with your bag, you can send it to Osprey and they will repair it for free.
2. NOMATIC Travel Bag
- A travel backpack with a sleek and modern design
- TSA-ready laptop sleeve for convenient airport screening
- Full-perimeter zipper for easy access to personal stuff
Since this backpack is just 40 liters, it is best suited for a 7-day trip. If you are going on a lengthy journey or packing a lot of goods, the Nomatic falls short of some of the bigger packs on this best travel backpack for Europe list.
You’ll definitely be drawn to this bag because of its streamlined, modern style which embodies Nomatic’s ultimate functionality and advanced organization.
Furthermore, the security features of this bag are noteworthy. The RFID secure compartments will protect your electronic equipment from hackers, and the retractable key leash will keep your keys secured and effortlessly reachable at the same time.
3. Venture Pal Lightweight
- Foldable design for space-saving ability
- Breathable mesh material for the shoulder straps
- Two-way SBS zippers for easy access to the compartment
There is a lot to admire about Venture Pal’s cheap and multifunctional choice. The first thing you will realize is the bag’s bargain price, but do not confuse this for a sign of poor quality.
This Venture Pal Backpack is constructed of sturdy material and has a double-layer bottom section that allows you to carry extra stuff on your trips. This bag also has strong quality SBS metal zippers on both sides that can be used in both directions.
4. Herschel Supply Co. Little America
- A 15” laptop sleeve
- Drawcord closure for extra safety
- Contoured shoulder straps for easy carrying
Although it is a relatively younger brand, many people are familiar with it for good reason: they deliver great items at affordable prices.
The style of this travel bag is both modern and daring, and it inspires you to set off on a quest to discover the unfamiliar. Nonetheless, this is one of the most compact bags on this list – a worthy contender for the best travel backpack for Europe.
As a result, it is not designed for lengthy excursions or carrying a lot of goods.
5. JanSport Unisex SuperBreak
- Adequate padding on shoulder straps
- Made with recycled materials
- Zippered front compartment
This is another smaller choice on the list that is quite popular among students and young people in general. One of the reasons the backpack is so popular is because it comes in over 30 unique colors and patterns.
It is also a minimalist backpack with no needless accessories cluttering it up. However, because there is no water bottle compartment, it may not be the ideal solution for trekking. Nonetheless, this bag is reasonably priced and of high quality.
6. The North Face Borealis
- U-style pull zippers
- Removable hip belt
- Front compartment with secure-zip pockets
This model is a lightweight travel bag that can be worn all day. It has an ergonomic fit and a range of customizations to provide a comfortable fit.
This backpack’s laptop protection is a standout feature. It will accommodate any laptop up to 15 inches in size. There is also cushioning around the bottom of the container that appears to be roughly an inch thick.
7. Hynes Eagle Travel Backpack
- External compression straps
- Sturdy grab handles on the upper part
This bag could be an excellent choice for students on a tight budget. However, it does have certain quality concerns, which are primarily due to the low cost of the material. The material is not as great as that of more expensive travel bags.
Still, if you are not harsh with bags, you should not have an issue. Another advantage of this bag is that it includes a set of organizers.
8. Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45
- Five anti-theft features
- Stainless steel cable included for added security
- eXomesh Slashguard fabric for the anti-theft ability
Pacsafe products are popular due to their safety characteristics. Despite the additional safety measures, their goods are not noticeably heavier than their regular counterparts.
This bag, in particular, is quite accommodating for travelers. The main compartment is roomy and has a two-tiered compression mechanism. This ensures that your luggage is safe and tidy.
9. Gregory Mountain Products Praxus
- Exterior pocket with easy accessibility
- Activeshield divider for easy internal organization
This is a daily carry-on backpack that is developed with practicality in mind. You also get a number of features and attention to detail from a manufacturer recognized for larger hiking bags.
It is not only a fashionable backpack, but it’s also one that can accompany you on any excursion. Lastly, it comes with locking zippers which are among the greatest anti-theft technologies on a bag.
10. Mountain Warehouse Traveller Backpack
- Adjustable features for comfort
- Additional 20-liter detachable daypack
The big backpack has a capacity of 60 liters, making it ideal for longer journeys. The daypack can also contain up to 20 liters of gear and other items.
You can change the shoulder straps to reach your most convenient posture, thanks to the adjustable back mechanism. Moreover, the chest and hip straps support the backpack in properly distributing the load.
Best Travel Backpack for Europe: Buying Guide
There are just so many travel backpacks available nowadays that it might be harder to tell which one to choose. Whether you prefer to travel light or overpack, these are the qualities to look for when purchasing the best travel backpack for Europe:
Sizes
Choosing a smaller travel bag allows you to carry less. This means you will be carrying minimal weight on your back, which will result in more convenience during your journey.
You wouldn’t want to take up a backpack that is larger than you and weighs a ton. Not only is it a burden on your back, but it is also a hassle to carry while you are walking for kilometers and makes the journey less enjoyable.
Even if you are going on a lengthy trip, you do not need a larger bag. You will be able to make it work by employing packing organizers and properly selecting your goods.
Comfort
Travel backpacks are available in a wide range of fitments, depending on the manufacturer and style. Some come in small, medium, and big sizes, but many are one-size-fits-all.
Keep in mind that everyone’s needs and physiques are different. As a result, it is ideal if you try on the backpacks beforehand to see which ones are the comfiest for you.
Additional cushioning is another element that contributes to comfort. Carrying your weight will be more comfortable with a padded hip belt and shoulder straps. Make sure the padding is quite firm and constructed of a solid workpiece because this will reduce the likelihood of it splitting and thinning out. Check out the The North Face Borealis backpack which provides extra comfort.
A lumbar-shaped pack is also more convenient to carry. It enables a more healthy arch, ensuring no back strain during your journey. Furthermore, this style of backpack allows air to circulate around your back, keeping you somewhat cool.
Usability
Travel backpacks have many more functionalities than standard bags. However, in order to make use of them, you must first determine what you actually require.
If you are not sure where to begin, consider what you need to access the most frequently. This question might assist you in prioritizing the features that you will require.
Getting a top-loading or side panel travel bag, for example, is a difficult and debatable decision. There is also a front-loading bag with a zipper that allows you to reach all of your belongings by unzipping the face.
Durability
When it comes to the durability of backpacks, one of the most essential concerns is, “what is it manufactured of?” Today’s backpacks are made of four primary materials: nylon, polyester, polypropylene, and canvas.
The most common backpack materials are nylon and polyester which are used to make heavy-duty bags. Heavier materials, such as canvas, can also provide long-lasting backpacks that you will use for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What travel backpack size should I get?
Everyone is curious about the ideal travel backpack size. However, it all boils down to two factors: how much luggage you want to carry and how long you intend to go.
If your backpack is either too big or too little, the weight will not be correctly balanced, causing backaches or possibly pushing you over. For travel, we typically recommend a 40 to 50-liter travel bag, or a 65-liter backpack if you are bringing camping gear.
When it comes to the best travel backpack for Europe, you want a bag that can store a little bit more than what you are packing. It is crucial to note that the larger your backpack, the less unlikely you will be permitted to bring it on the aircraft.
Q: How do you pack a travel backpack?
The most essential thing to remember here is to keep your center of gravity consistent. This can be accomplished by packing your heaviest, thickest stuff as near to your spine as possible.
Food, beverages, and cooking equipment should be stored at or in between the shoulder blades. This is to prevent them from swinging around and knocking you off your stride. Hold them in place using less solid things, such as garments.
Compression bags are a fantastic addition to any circumstance when you need a little more organizing support. They eliminate extra air from your backpack, allowing you to carry more items.
Q: Should I buy a travel backpack or a suitcase?
Suitcases are ideal for weekend getaways or if you will be residing in one spot for an extended period of time. However, if you are going to be moving (and walking!) around a lot, a solid backpack is a must.
The best travel backpack for Europe simply makes better sense because you do not have to pick them up to get on the elevator or lug them up a set of stairs. Overall, they simply make life easier.
If you have back issues and can not carry a backpack for an extended period of time, you may purchase a sturdy backpack with wheels, which is a cross between the two. However, wheeled backpacks are not a suitable solution for trekkers.
Conclusion
Because a backpack is a valuable investment and an essential aspect of traveling, you will need to test on a variety of models before deciding on the best travel backpack for Europe.
If possible, visit your local leisure store to get feedback and guidance from the staff members. They should be able to answer any of your queries about your travel bag.
