The Best Luggage, Bags and Backpacks for Travel
Discover the top options in travel bags and luggage to make your next adventure hassle-free and enjoyable. From short weekend getaways to international trips, we’ve got you covered!
So I was so ready for that long-awaited vacation, but just before heading to the airport, I realized that my luggage was a bulky mess, thanks to that faithful ol’ suitcase that was starting to come apart at the seams.
When it comes to traveling, having the right luggage, bag, or backpack can make all the difference. Not only can the right travel gear make your trip more comfortable, but it can also help keep your belongings organized and secure.
Investing in the right luggage will save you from countless headaches down the road but with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs.
In this blog post, I’ll break down the essential features to consider when purchasing new luggage, introduce some of the best choices for backpacks and suitcases, and give recommendations for different types of travel. Let’s get started!
Understanding Travel Luggage
Gone are the days when a standard suitcase would suffice for most trips.
Nowadays, there’s a wide variety of luggage options available, from sleek carry-on bags to rugged backpacks designed to cater to your specific travel needs.
To find the perfect luggage partner, it’s important to understand the key features you should be looking for.
Key Features to Consider
When selecting the best luggage, bags, and backpacks for travel, there are several key features to consider. These features will help ensure that your travel gear meets your needs and will make your travel experience more comfortable and stress-free.
Size and Dimensions
Airlines have strict rules when it comes to carry-on and checked baggage size limits. So check your airline’s size (and weight) restrictions before you buy.
No one wants to get slapped with extra baggage fees, right?
For carry-on bags, most airlines allow dimensions under 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). Keep in mind that sometimes length and width take precedence over height when it comes to luggage size.
Weight and Capacity
Another important feature to consider is the weight and capacity of your travel gear. You want to make sure that your luggage, bag, or backpack can hold all of your essentials while still remaining lightweight and easy to carry.
I remember a trip I took last year to Bali when my bag was heavier than my cousin’s even though we had packed the same things. That’s when I realized that luggage weight really matters.😅
Durability
Durability is also an important consideration when selecting travel gear. Look for items that are made from durable materials, such as TPU-coated 1000D polyester, that can withstand the wear and tear of travel.
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to travel gear. Look for bags and backpacks that have comfortable hip belts, shoulder straps, and sternum straps to help distribute the weight evenly and reduce strain on your back and shoulders.
Organization
Trust me, a bag with plenty of pockets, compartments, and zippers will keep your sanity intact while on the go.
Separate compartments for clothes, electronics, toiletries, and shoes make it easier to find what you’re looking for and keep everything neat.
It’s like magic when you open your luggage and everything is in its place!
Having a well-organized bag or backpack can make all the difference when it comes to travel. Look for items that have multiple compartments, packing cubes, a laptop sleeve, shoe compartment, and even a laundry bag to help keep your items organized and easily accessible.
Wheels and Compression
If you prefer to use luggage with wheels, look for items that have high-quality wheels and a sturdy handle. Compression straps can also be helpful in reducing the size of your bag and making it easier to carry.
Waterproofing and Rain Cover
Finally, consider waterproofing and rain covers when selecting travel gear. Look for bags and backpacks that are water-resistant or waterproof to help protect your items in case of inclement weather. A rain cover can also be a helpful addition to keep your bag dry during a downpour.
By considering these key features, you can find the best luggage, bags, and backpacks for your travel needs.
Budget Considerations
When it comes to choosing the best luggage, bags, and backpacks for travel, budget is an important consideration for many travelers. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available that offer great value without breaking the bank.
One of the best budget options for carry-on luggage is the Rockland Melbourne 20. This lightweight and durable suitcase comes in a variety of colors and has plenty of space for your essentials. Another great choice is the AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage, which is both affordable and stylish.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly duffel bag, the Adidas Defender III is a great option. It’s spacious, durable, and comes in a variety of colors. For a more versatile option, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel is a bit pricier but offers great value with its waterproof design and multiple carrying options.
When it comes to backpacks, the Venture Pal Lightweight Packable Backpack is a great budget option. It’s lightweight, durable, and can be easily packed away when not in use. Another great choice is the Osprey Daylite Plus, which offers a comfortable fit and plenty of storage space for a reasonable price.
Best Travel Backpacks
When it comes to travel backpacks, there are a lot of options to choose from. Here are some of the best travel backpacks that will make your travels more comfortable and organized.
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
I absolutely adore my Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, and you will too!
It ranks high on style, functionality, and organization. The innovative features, such as a stowable waist belt, rotating shoulder straps, and side carry handles, make it a breeze to handle.
Plus, with a lifetime warranty, who can resist?
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a great backpack for those who want a smaller backpack that is still spacious enough to fit all of their belongings.
It has a clamshell opening that allows you to easily access your belongings, and it also has a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit a 15-inch laptop.
The backpack is made from durable materials and has comfortable shoulder straps and a hip belt.
Osprey Farpoint 40
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a great backpack for those who want a backpack that is comfortable and easy to carry. It has a spacious main compartment that can fit all of your belongings, and it also has a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit a 15-inch laptop.
The backpack has comfortable shoulder straps and a hip belt that can be adjusted to fit your body.
Nomatic Travel Bag 40L
The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is a great backpack for those who want a backpack that is versatile and can be used for different types of travel.
It has a spacious main compartment that can be accessed from the top or side, and it also has a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit a 15-inch laptop.
The backpack is made from durable materials and has comfortable shoulder straps and a hip belt.
Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
The first time I laid eyes on the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L, I knew we were destined to be travel buddies.
What’s not to love about it?
This bag is the perfect combination of lightweight, durable, and versatile.
With a 45-liter capacity, it has enough space to pack everything you need for a week-long vacation (let’s be honest, we all tend to overpack 👀).
The main compartment opens like a suitcase, making finding and organizing your belongings easy.
And did I mention it’s water-resistant?
No more panic attacks when it starts raining!
Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack
When I went on a short trip to Bali, I knew I needed something smaller and more lightweight than my Patagonia.
I chose the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack and didn’t regret it for a second.
With a 40-liter capacity, it’s slightly smaller than the Patagonia, but it’s still perfect for shorter trips or if you’re a minimalist traveler.
The Asenlin is also expandable, meaning you can unzip an extra compartment for more space when needed (hello, souvenirs 🛍️!).
You’ll love this backpack for its comfort and practicality. It has a breathable back support, padded shoulder straps, and a chest strap to help you carry the weight comfortably.
As for organization, you can store your laptop in a separate padded compartment and utilize the various pockets for smaller items.
I’ve taken this backpack on several weekend trips since Bali, and it never fails me. It’s an excellent option if you need something a bit smaller while still being incredibly functional.
Best Luggage for Different Types of Trips
When it comes to choosing the best luggage for your travels, there are several factors to consider, including the type of trip you are taking, the length of your stay, and the activities you plan to do. Here are some top luggage picks for different types of travel.
Weekend Getaways
I love me a good weekend getaway, don’t you? 🙂
Whether you’re hopping on a bus to a nearby city or jetting off for a quick romantic escape, weekend trips are a fantastic way to recharge.
For such expeditions, we need something compact yet spacious enough to accommodate the essentials.
My top picks for this category are:
- Patagonia Black Hole Duffel: Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, this duffel bag is perfect for weekend trips. It has a spacious main compartment and several pockets for organization.
- Herschel Supply Co. Little America Backpack: This stylish backpack has a classic look and plenty of room for all your weekend essentials. It features a padded laptop sleeve and a front pocket for easy access to your phone and other small items.
International Travel
When traveling internationally, you want a bag that is versatile, durable, and easy to maneuver. Look for a bag with wheels and a handle for easy transportation through airports and train stations.
My suitcase broke on my last trip to London, and it was a nightmare scrambling to find a new one! To avoid such a disaster
Here are some good options:
- Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage: This durable suitcase is made from polycarbonate material and has four spinner wheels for easy maneuverability. It also features a TSA-approved lock for added security.
- Osprey Farpoint Travel Backpack: This versatile backpack is perfect for backpackers and budget travelers. It has a detachable daypack and a comfortable suspension system for long-term wear.
Business Travel
When it comes to business travel, there’s no room for messiness or disorganization.
For business travel, you want a bag that is professional-looking, organized, and easy to carry. Look for a bag with a laptop compartment and plenty of pockets for organization.
Here are my top picks for keeping things sleek, professional, and separate from your leisure gear:
- Tumi Alpha 3 Expandable Organizer Laptop Briefcase: This sleek briefcase has a dedicated laptop compartment and several pockets for organization. It also expands for extra storage space.
- Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner: This stylish carry-on suitcase has a built-in USB port and a dedicated laptop compartment. It also has a precision glide system for easy maneuverability.
Backpacking Trips
Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or exploring colorful markets in Southeast Asia, the perfect backpack can make all the difference.
You want one that distributes weight evenly, has ample space for your belongings, and provides easy access to your essentials. Here are my personal favorites:
For backpacking trips, you want a bag that is durable, comfortable, and easy to carry. Look for a backpack with a comfortable suspension system and plenty of pockets for organization. Some good options include:
1. Osprey Atmos AG 65 / Aura AG 65
The Osprey Atmos AG 65 (men’s) and Aura AG 65 (women’s) are game changers for backpacking trips.
A few years ago, I was preparing for a 3-week trek in Nepal, and after extensive research, I decided Osprey was worth the investment.
The Anti-Gravity suspension system distributes weight so well that the pack feels like it’s floating on your back, and believe me, that’s a godsend when you’re trudging uphill with a heavy load.
Did I mention it’s fully adjustable and even comes with a built-in rain cover (saved my life, or at least my belongings, during the monsoon season in Bali)?
2. Deuter Aircontact Lite 60+10
If you’re looking for a backpack that’s comfortable, spacious, and lightweight, consider the Deuter Aircontact Lite 60+10.
My partner swears by this pack, and I can’t count the number of times he’s taken it on our adventures – Europe, South America, you name it!
The Aircontact Lite features airy padding and a unique adjustable back length system, taking the strain off your back on long treks.
And the +10 in the name? It means you can expand the pack by ten extra liters.
Talk about versatility
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing the best luggage, bags, and backpacks for travel, there are many factors to consider. You want to find a product that is durable, functional, and fits your specific needs.
After researching and testing various options, we have compiled a list of some of the best travel bags on the market. From carry-on luggage to backpacks, there is something for everyone.
When selecting a travel bag, it’s important to consider the type of trip you will be taking.
If you’re going on a short weekend getaway, a smaller carry-on bag or backpack may be all you need. However, for longer trips, you may need a larger suitcase or backpack with more storage capacity.
Additionally, consider the type of activities you will be doing on your trip. If you plan on hiking or exploring the outdoors, a backpack with sturdy straps and plenty of pockets may be the best option.
On the other hand, if you plan on staying in hotels and traveling by car or plane, a suitcase with wheels and a telescoping handle may be more practical.
Overall, the best travel bag for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Take the time to research and test out different options to find the perfect bag for your next adventure.
