Finding the best travel backpack can feel like an endless scroll—there are thousands of options, and most seem to promise the same thing: sleek design, generous capacity, and enough compartments to keep your tech and toiletries from colliding. Over the past year, our team has tested dozens of backpacks across countless trips: quick overnight getaways, cross-country flights, and commuter hauls across cities. Some of us prioritize sleek silhouettes for work trips, others want as many pockets as humanly possible, and a few of us are after that elusive trifecta: stylish, sturdy, and truly comfortable to wear.
In this list, you’ll find our editors’ top picks—bags that earned real-world praise for being surprisingly lightweight, thoughtfully designed, and well worth the investment. Whether you’re a remote worker hopping from cafe to co-working space, an adventure-seeker headed out for a hike, or just someone trying to keep their essentials stylishly corralled, there’s a travel backpack here for you. Below, the travel backpacks we’ll keep reaching for in 2025.
How we tested:
To help us recommend the very best luggage to our readers, more than a dozen Condé Nast Traveler editors and contributors spent months (and in some cases, years) road-testing the most talked-about bags on the market. These bags accompanied us near and far on planes, trains, buses, and cruises, from local staycations to far-flung destinations. We packed these bags to the brim, lifted them into overhead bins, rolled them down cobblestone streets, and trudged through bustling cities with them in hand. While traveling with our luggage, we considered each bag’s weight, capacity, functionality, price point, and how well it has held up over time. We also identified smart design features that make a bag stand out from its competitors, like having weight indicators, separate shoe compartments, or protective laptop sleeves. After careful consideration and inspection, we determined which suitcases, weekenders, and backpacks deserve a spot in our coveted Luggage Week lineup. The results are a mix of innovative newcomers and long-time, reliable favorites from top luggage brands around the world. Read on for our 2025 list of editor-approved luggage.
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Best travel backpacks
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Dimensions: 17″ x 11″ x 6.3″
Capacity: 20L
Warranty: Limited lifetime
A sleek and structured option for business or leisure, July’s Carry-All backpack lives up to its name with a boxy shape that keeps contents organized and protected. “It’s very well-designed and nice to look at,” says associate social media manger Emily Adler, who used it for a trip to Los Angeles. Though slightly heavier than other picks due to its thick material, she found it comfortable to carry and sturdy enough to hold a laptop, work essentials, and a few clothing items. “The interior is standard but practical,” Adler adds, noting that it functions better as a personal item or work bag than a full-on travel pack.
Pros: Sleek, durable, and professional-looking
Cons: Slightly heavy, narrow interior, zippers may be stiff at first
MZ Wallace
Metro utility backpack
Weight: 1.8 lbs
Dimensions: 17″ x 13″ x 6.5″
Capacity: 23L
Warranty: No but there is a repair policy
MZ Wallace’s Metro Utility Backpack takes the brand’s signature nylon softness and adds practical upgrades for travel. “It feels like a cloud,” says commerce writer Paris Wilson, who’s taken it on weekend trips to LA, Salt Lake City, and Orlando. Despite its featherlight construction, the bag offers a surprisingly spacious interior with a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of zippered pockets. “It fits everything I need for a long weekend—clothes, water bottle, even my camera gear—and the straps are super comfortable,” Wilson adds. While the front pocket could be a bit bigger, the backpack’s clean, quilted design and durable material make it a stylish and reliable choice.
Pros: Incredibly lightweight, well-organized interior, comfortable straps
Cons: Front pocket could be larger, not ideal for very long trips
Weight: 3 lb.
Dimensions: 16.5″ x 11.5″ x 6″
Capacity: 18L
Warranty: Two-year limited warranty
This design-forward vegan leather bag is just the thing for travelers looking for a more elevated backpack. According to associate commerce director Madison Flager, “it’s a comfortable bag to wear, and fits a lot—I’ve used it as an overnight bag. I do think it’s a great backpack, especially for commuters or for work trips where you want the practicality of a backpack while also looking polished.”
Whether you’re headed on a weekend trip, carrying necessities on your daily commute, or using it as a carry-on bag, the Monos Metro backpack is a smart choice. The inner laptop compartment fits a 15″ laptop, and there’s a built-in trolley sleeve, top carry handle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The bag also comes with a Metro Kit, a modular pouch that snaps securely onto the front of the backpack, so you can keep essentials like a phone, earbuds, and hand sanitizer nearby.
Pros: Multiple pockets, trolley sleeve, comes with a removable pouch
Cons: Not very lightweight and can feel bulky
Away
Featherlight backpack
Weight: 1.2 lb.
Dimensions: 16.5″ x 11.8″ x 5.9″
Capacity: 18L
Warranty: One-year warranty
Away’s Large Featherlight backpack is extremely lightweight at just 1.2 pounds. Adler used this backpack on trips to Costa Rica, Los Angeles, and Connecticut. “I typically use it in addition to a suitcase as my personal item for plane travel,” says Adler. “It fits everything I need very well—headphones, snacks, laptop, planner, and any leftover items that won’t fit in my suitcase.” A zippered laptop sleeve keeps your tech secure, while a perfectly sized passport pocket keeps important documents organized. There’s a place for not one but two water bottles and adjustable, padded shoulder straps to keep you comfortable, no matter how much you pack inside. As with many of the backpacks on this list, there’s also a trolley sleeve, so you can slip it onto any Away suitcase. Best of all, this backpack is machine washable.
Pros: Made from water-repellent material, lightweight, sleek design
Cons: Not as structured due to the material
Halfdays
The Roamer backpack
Weight: 2.5 lb.
Dimensions: 20″ x 12.5″ x 8″
Capacity: 30-35L
Warranty: 60-day return policy
The Roamer backpack is a great option for short business trips, but associate editor Charlie Hobbs says, “if you packed your cards right, you could get a month’s worth of wardrobe out of it.” Its clamshell design makes it easier to organize and pack, as the front of the backpack fully opens and lays flat like a suitcase for carry-on free travel. One of its best features is the exterior laptop sleeve that has a lockable closure (lock is not included) for extra security. While it’s on the larger side, it’s great for college students heading home for a long weekend with space for two to three days’ worth of clothes. “Despite its bulk, I’d go so far as to call this bag demure and looks brand new after extensive use,” says Hobbs. Inside, a pouch has been added for laundry or extra shoes, while the exterior has padded shoulder straps for added lumbar support so the adventures don’t have to end due to discomfort.
Pros: Built-in interior pouch for shoes or laundry that clips away when not in use, laptop pocket with lockable closure, clamshell opening
Cons: Quite large
Weight: 2.2 lb.
Dimensions: 18.5″ x 12.2″ x 6.1″
Capacity: 40 L
Warranty: One-year free replacement for all products with manufacturing defects
With its sleek look and smart functionality, July’s Carry All Backpack is one of the most travel-friendly designs our editors have tested. Commerce editor Meaghan Kenny calls it “amazing,” noting that the clamshell opening makes it ideal for packing like a pro. “It lies completely flat, almost like a mini suitcase,” adds Spain. “It came with two packing cubes and a shoe bag, making it the perfect companion for weekends or overnights.”
Inside, you’ll find thoughtful compartments for toiletries, journals, tech accessories, and more. A padded laptop sleeve on the back keeps your device separate from the rest of your gear and protected from scuffs. The structured shape makes it easy to keep things tidy, whether you’re heading to the office, gym, or airport. Spain especially appreciated its versatility: “It’s so practical for longer days on the go, and the added accessories make it feel like a great value.”
Pros: Comes with packing cubes and a shoe bag; clamshell opening makes packing seamless
Cons: A few unnecessary straps and zippers
Pros: It comes with packing cubes and a shoe bag
Cons: Unnecessary straps and zippers
Roam
The Continental backpack
Weight: 2.4 lb.
Dimensions: 17″ x 14″ x 8″
Capacity: 26L
Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Equal parts sleek and functional, the Continental backpack is a thoughtfully designed, customizable carryall made for life on the move. With a minimalist silhouette and a surprisingly spacious interior, it’s ideal for commuting, travel, or days when you just need a little more room. The backpack features a padded laptop sleeve (fits up to 15″), multiple interior and exterior pockets for effortless organization, and a built-in trolley sleeve that makes airport navigation a breeze. Crafted from water-repellent, eco-friendly materials and available in fully personalized colorways, it’s a polished pick that doesn’t sacrifice practicality.
“I still use this all the time. The only wear and tear is on the top handle; the fabric has frayed quite a bit over time; but otherwise it’s in great shape, fits a ton, and has endless compartments to keep me organized,” says Flager. Whether you’re headed across town or across the country, the Continental has you (and your gear) covered.
Pros: Customizable color options, smart internal organization, durable and travel-ready
Cons: Slightly heavier than average, top handle may show wear over time
Weight: 2.2 lb.
Dimensions: 18.9″ x 12.6″ x 5.9″
Capacity: 25L
Warranty: Five-year guarantee
Troubadour’s Apex backpack is one of the sleekest travel backpacks we’ve tested—refined enough for the office, yet durable enough for daily use. “I recommend this for the stylish traveler who doesn’t want something that screams ‘tourist here!’” says Kenny. It’s crafted from waterproof fabric that looks luxe but doesn’t require babying. “The material feels so high-quality and it’s extremely lightweight,” she says. “You can tell it can really handle wear and tear.” The breathable back panel and ergonomic shoulder straps make it especially comfortable in warmer weather, and the clean, minimalist silhouette gives it a polished edge that’s perfect for business travel.
Pros: Padded laptop compartment, waterproof material, trolley sleeve
Cons: Not ideal for rugged outdoor travel
Weight: 2.1 lb.
Dimensions: 18.9″ x 13.4″ x 8.7″
Capacity: 27L
Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Tested by Sanidad on a trip to San Francisco and two trips to upstate New York, this backpack offers cushioned comfort and substantial storage compared to others on the market. “I really appreciated the padded interior to carry both my laptop and tablet,” says Sanidad. “There are such intentional storage spaces with discreet pockets for important things like my passport. Plus, there are two large side pockets that can stash my water bottle.” There are also zippers along the side to expand the bag if you find you need more space. Sanidad notes it can fit a few days’ worth of clothes, but it might be a bit heavy to lug around. Luckily, the padded mesh back panel helps to keep you comfortable, while the sternum strap stabilizes the load.
Pros: Many zippered compartments and pockets, including a zipper that allows you to access your laptop from the side without having to dig everything out
Cons: Some of the handles could be longer to make the bag easier to grab
Weight: 1.9 lb.
Dimensions: 18″ x 12″ x 6.5″
Capacity: 26L
Warranty: Repair program
Made from water-repellent recycled polyester fabric, the Refugio Daypack can withstand everything from sharp corners to the occasional drip. “It’s best suited for outdoorsy pursuits,” says Flager. “It’s great for personal travel, especially trips when I have a single hike or day trip factored in and want a backpack that I can still bring on the plane and store my laptop securely in.” The removable tech caddy works as a mobile workstation where travelers can use the zippered pockets to keep chargers and other tech accessories in close proximity. While the main compartment can hold most of the bulkier items, the front pocket has a vertically oriented zipper that makes it easy to get the necessities out.
Pros: Comfortable, dual water bottle pockets
Cons: Could use a few more interior pockets within the main compartments
Weight: 3 lb.
Dimensions: 18″ x 12″ x 7.5″
Capacity: 25L
Warranty: Two-year warranty on any manufacturing defects
Elevated, sophisticated, and comfortable are just a few of the words that Adler used to describe this bag after traveling with it to upstate New York, the Hamptons, and Washington, DC. Inside you’ll find a laptop sleeve big enough for a 15-inch laptop; four smaller pockets for pens, lip balm, headphones, and chargers; and an exterior front pocket for easy access to your most important documents like a passport or wallet. “Personally, I’ve been using it as a carry-on bag alongside a suitcase for trips,” says Adler. “Otherwise, on its own, it would definitely work well for an overnight trip.” With two plush straps, it’s easy and comfortable to carry, but can also slide onto the handles of a carry-on thanks to the trolley sleeve on the back.
Pros: Sleek design while being practical, functional, and carrying a lot
Cons: Not spacious enough for international trips
Best laptop backpacks
Calpak
Kaya laptop backpack
Weight: 2.1 lbs
Dimensions: 15.5″ x 11.25″ x 4.5″
Capacity: 19L
Warranty: One-year limited warranty
If you’re looking for a travel backpack that doubles as a fashion statement, the Calpak Kaya is it. “This is one of the most stylish ways to bring your necessities to work,” says travel bookings editor Jamie Spain. With a flat, structured design, it holds its shape whether full or empty, and fits a laptop, book, portable charger, wallet, and snacks with ease. The large central compartment is more of a free-for-all than an organizer’s dream, but Spain adds, “as long as I packed it with intention, I was able to fit everything I needed and received plenty of compliments on the way.”
Pros: Sleek and stylish, holds its shape, slides over luggage handle
Cons: Can get heavy fast, minimal internal organization
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Meaghan Kenny
MZ Wallace
Metro Backpack Deluxe
Weight: 1.3 lb.
Dimensions: 16.5″ x 12.2″ x 6.9″
Capacity: 23L
Warranty: Repair policy with limited exceptions
MZ Wallace’s Metro Backpack Deluxe continues to impress with its pillowy-soft, lightweight design and polished style. “It’s my everyday backpack for commutes into the office, but I’ve also used it as a personal item on a few flights,” says Kenny. It comfortably fits a laptop, Kindle, headphones, a water bottle, and a change of clothes—without ever feeling bulky. Unlike backpacks with too many compartments, the single main interior helps prevent overstuffing and stays clean and streamlined. “The super-soft material and straps don’t dig into my skin, and after a year of daily use, it still looks brand new,” she adds. Its sleek, minimalist design (especially in black) keeps it looking smart for both work and travel.
Pros: Comes with a removable pouch, luggage sleeve, laptop sleeve, two water bottle pockets
Cons: It’s a bit pricey
Wandrd
Nimbus 18L backpack
Weight: 2.1 lbs
Dimensions: 17″ x 11″ x 5″
Capacity: 18L
Warranty: Lifetime warranty
If your trips tend to veer toward the adventurous, the Nimbus backpack brings rugged functionality in a surprisingly lightweight package. As contributor Cley Lassale says after traveling to Charlottesville and Seattle with the bag, “the padded straps and cushioned back make it very comfortable to wear.” She appreciated the multiple interior and exterior pockets, especially the hidden back pocket for passports. Though it’s small enough to fit under most airplane seats (barely—“only if I take the water bottle out”), it comfortably fit a change of clothes, two laptops, and all her work essentials. “It’s a great pick for someone who wants both space and comfort.”
Pros: Lightweight, hidden security pocket, adventure-ready
Cons: Large main compartment makes it hard to reach bottom items
Calpak
Luka Laptop Backpack
Weight: 1.8 lb.
Dimensions: 16″ x 12″ x 7″
Capacity: 22L
Warranty: One-year limited warranty
A longtime favorite among Calpak fans, the Luka Laptop backpack blends form and function with a plush, spill-resistant exterior that’s built to last. “I adore this backpack—just like the rest of the Luka collection,” says Kenny. “I’ve had it for a few years and it’s come with me on overnight stays, weekend trips, and to the office.” The soft yet stretchy material can handle overpacking when necessary, and it wipes clean easily (even after spills of makeup or coffee). There’s a dedicated laptop sleeve for commuting or business trips, plus a roomy main compartment for an outfit, chargers, or toiletries. It’s available in over a dozen colors, making it one of the most stylish and customizable picks on the list.
Pros: Laptop compartment, trolley sleeve, water bottle pocket, soft adjustable straps
Cons: Very narrow luggage trolley sleeve
Lo & Sons
The Rowledge backpack
Weight: 3.2 lb.
Dimensions: 16.5″ x 11.5″ x 6.75″
Capacity: 21L
Warranty: One-year warranty
Traveler Contributor Lydia Mansel loves this sleek, convertible backpack for carrying all of her work essentials. It features a 13″ laptop compartment and can easily transition into a tote, thanks to backpack straps that tuck into a back pocket. It has plenty of pockets for organization—including a hidden one at the top for slipping your passport and boarding pass into while at the airport—and a trolley sleeve. It’s made of a mix of nylon and leather, and has memory foam straps for extra comfort.
Pros: It can carry two laptops, plenty of pockets, luggage sleeve
Cons: Offered in two sizes, but the smaller version is a little too small to store a day’s worth of essentials
Read a full review of this backpack here.
Herschel Supply Company
Kaslo Daypack Tech
Dimensions: 16.75″ x 11″ x 5.75″
Capacity: 20L
Warranty: 30-day return policy, limited lifetime warranty
Designed with tech lovers in mind, the backpack delivers both organization and serious device protection. “This one’s for the tech-obsessed traveler,” says Kenny. “It has loads of room for chargers, cords, headphones, a Kindle, and of course, a laptop.” The fleece-lined interior and padded laptop sleeve make it stand out among other tech-friendly backpacks, especially for business trips or remote work setups. It includes mesh compartments for organizing smaller gadgets and a luggage sleeve for breezing through the airport. Even fully packed, it wears comfortably. “The thick straps distribute the weight really well, and it never feels overwhelmingly heavy.”
Pros: Luggage sleeve, recycled materials, fleece-lined laptop compartment
Cons: Earbuds pocket best fits Apple or similarly shaped cases
This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler’s third annual Luggage Week, for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors. It has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
