ReviewsTravel Backpack: The Best 5 Choices In 2018
Travel Backpack: The Best 5 Choices In 2018

Travel Backpack: The Best 5 Choices In 2018

If you travel frequently, or you are a full-time or part-time traveler, having a travel backpack helps a lot. Especially when you have necessary and important pieces of stuff that you want to carry with you.

What backpack should I get for traveling? It is the question that I found people asked a lot. And I’m going to use that question to start my reviews about the travel backpack of the year 2018. I will list down the top 5 travel backpacks that wanderers would love to use, in my opinion, based on price, quality, and durability.

The list of 5 travel backpacks includes:

#ImageNameAdvantagesLink
5AmazonBasics Travel BackpackAmazonBasics Travel Backpack
  • The most affordable!
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4Outside Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel BackpackOsprey Farpoint 40
  • Perfect for a weekend getaway!
  • To be built to meet most airline carry-on requirements!
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3Tortuga backpack 44LTortuga Travel Backpack
  • Affordable price!
  • Unique design!
Currently Out of Stock!
2Outside Osprey Fairview 55 Travel BackpackOsprey Fairview 55
  • Design-oriented toward women!
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1Nomatic BagNomatic Travel Bag
  • The most functional!
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5. AmazonBasics Travel Backpack

AmazonBasics Travel Backpack

There are a lot of travel backpacks in the market but AmazonBasics Travel Backpack is one of the top 5 that I chose over the other backpack brands. The AmazonBasics is a reliable house with multiple compartments. So, it has enough space to hold all your necessary stuff for your trips.

Inside the AmazonBasics

Inside AmazonBasics Travel Backpack
Inside AmazonBasics Travel Backpack

The main compartment measures 5.5 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 21.5 inches in height. It means you have enough room to store different-sized pieces of equipment without any problems. Additionally, the bag has a full expansion zipper which can provide 10% more packaging space so you won’t have to worry about anything literally.

The AmazonBasics Travel Backpack also has a laptop sleeve that can fit any laptop size. Moreover, the special sleeve is the main compartment that can be expanded into the laptop area. Therefore, you can put more things with even more space.

The main upper packing is very spacious. To elaborate, you can find a tucked-away ID pocket, a hideaway water bottle, a key clip, and a zippered mesh holder so you can easily organize all of your belongings.

Outside the AmazonBasics

The AmazonBasics goes with three different colors: black, navy, and red. Thus, you can easily choose the most suitable one for your style. Furthermore, it all shares the same construction so you don’t have to worry about the different qualities. The material used for crafting is durable polyester which makes it an incredibly durable, flexible, and lightweight backpack. Therefore, you won’t find any problems with the quality after a couple of years of use.

This travel backpack is designed with a padded shoulder strap and a waist belt. Especially, both are removable so you will have 2 options of wearing this bag as a backpack or a suitcase. Some users claimed that they felt no fatigue when using so it is a great point as no one wants to feel pain or have any problems during their trip.

Overall, if you are looking for a comfortable and affordable travel backpack that goes with a huge internal space, Amazon Basics is definitely your ideal choice!

4. Osprey Farpoint 40

The Osprey Farpoint has 4 versions 40L, 55L, 70L, and 80L. Here in this review we only take a look at the 40L travel backpack version of Osprey Farpoint.

So at number four, we have the Osprey Farpoint 40. It’s one of the popular backpacks for travelers which has the most sold on the market. The reason behind this is its spacious compartments with ergonomic design and the endurance that guarantees long years of usage.

The Osprey Farpoint 40’s Design

The Osprey FairPoint 40 comes in three different colors: Caribbean blue, Jasper red, and Volcanic grey. They come in two sizes: small-medium and medium-large. However, we are going to make an overview of the medium-large model in this review. Just a quick note, the manufacturer claims that the small-medium model is suitable for people under five foot nine while the medium-large is for everyone above five foot nine.

Outside Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
Outside Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

This travel backpack is made of 210D on a mini hex diamond ripstop with 600D packcloth accents and bottom which says a lot about its durability. At the front and on the side, there are padded handles that feel really soft on your hands; and they will improve your control when you are holding the fully loaded pack. In addition, there are dual front compression straps positioned at the front. It will grant you more stability when you’re wearing the pack without causing any pain.

The exterior is composed of straps a hip belt, a harness system, and mesh pockets. Hence, you can use those mesh pockets for storing your water bottles since there isn’t any specific compartment for this. A really cool thing about the hip belt and the harness system is that they can be zipped all the way down so when you’re being checked by airport security you can immediately open the whole bag.

Inside the Osprey Farpoint 40

Inside Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
Inside Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

For those who prefer the metric system, this travel backpack measures 22 inches in height, 14 inches in width, and 9 inches in depth with an internal volume of 2441 cubic inches or 40L, which makes it spacious and compact at the same time.

The internal part is composed of the main compartment that contains compression straps and a second smaller padded compartment with a zipped mesh pocket that can house your laptop, Kindle, or tablet.

As described by the brand Osprey, “Osprey’s Farpoint 40 is perfect for a weekend getaway in the city or the wilderness and is built to meet most airline carry-on requirements”. Hence, if you find this travel backpack suitable for your needs, you can get it now on Amazon!

3. Tortuga Travel Backpack

Tortuga backpack 44L

Being in the third place the best travel backpack in 2018 is the Tortuga Travel Backpack.

The Exterior Design

The Tortuga Travel Backpack is a front-loading carry-on backpack. It is particularly for every traveler who wants to upgrade their existing backpack with a new sleek, and spacious one. From a design perspective, the Tortuga measures 22 by 14 by 9 inches. Therefore, it meets the default criteria for a carrying luggage backpack. A really notable fact about this backpack is its 100% nylon construction. That distinctive material helps the bag stay durable throughout plenty of years of use while maintaining its original shape. In my opinion, this backpack may not be the most visually appealing one that you can find. Nevertheless, when it comes to packing, many people say that it is really functional.

Outside Tortuga Travel Backpack
The Tortuga measures 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

Furthermore, the exterior has five pockets, each of which plays a specific role in the packaging process. For example, the side pockets have zippered closures that are capable of holding small items and water bottles. There are also hidden pad pockets that are strategically positioned so you can access them really quickly in order to get your items such as passports, boarding passes, or something similar. Additionally, the main lid can fully unzip which allows you front-loading so your packing process and access will be really convenient. On the other side, this is pretty useful when the airport security wants to check you. The Tortuga is really comfortable as well thanks to its padded shoulder straps, and hip belt that will stay fixed to your torso, and ensure that the weight would not cause fatigue.

Tortuga’s Internal Design

Inside Tortuga Travel Backpack
Inside Tortuga Travel Backpack

The interior includes a fixed internal compression system, a huge main compartment, and a padded laptop sleeve that can accommodate laptops up to 17 inches. This sleeve is positioned between the Tortuga’s back padding and the main compartment. Hence, the weight of the laptop will be equally distributed across your shoulders and you won’t feel its weight at all.

Overall, the Tortuga is worthy of consideration because it combines an affordable price with a unique design which will ensure that all of your travel gears will be kept.

2. Osprey Fairview 55

Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Backpack - The Broad Life Reviews

One of the cool backpacks placed in the second is the Osprey Fairview 55.

Osprey Fairview 55 is one of the best travel backpacks for women who always seek a large space for their necessary equipment. On the other hand, there is also a male version. Let’s get into action and find out why this would be a top choice for women.

The Osprey Fairview 55’s External Design

From a design perspective, the Osprey Fairview 55 comes in three sizes. It has two colors such as misty grey, and rainforest green. In this review, we will talk about the small-medium size as we think it is adequate to accommodate a wide variety of users. This travel bag measures 25 inches in height, 13 inches in width, and 12 inches in depth. You can load up to 50 pounds of equipment without any problem. Its construction is composed of 210D nylon mini hex diamond ripstop with 600D accents and base, which are the key reasons why this backpack is durable and ready to be used for many years.

Outside Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Backpack
Outside Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Backpack

There are dual front compression straps, a front panel/pocket, and of course, the back panel which is really impressive thanks to its hip belt and harness system. That will help you get a slimmer profile while traveling since they can be stowed and zipped away. Users claim that this bag is really comfortable to wear, and the weight distribution is equally spread across your back and shoulders. Even after a prolonged time of usage, you won’t feel any strains that may interrupt your travel experience.

The Internal Design

Inside Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Backpack

Inside, you will find an internal compression strap system that will tighten your gears, keep them stable throughout your transit, and leave you more space for storing pieces of equipment. The internal maximum capacity is 55 liters or more. I get this number when I combine the main pack’s capacity of 42 liters, and the integrated removable 13L day pack, which can be used as additional travel storage. The internal main compartment also has a laptop and tablet sleeves, which are surely a pretty useful thing due to the fact that we are living in a modern world where these things are always necessary for communication.

In conclusion, the Osprey Fairview 4 is a top choice for everyone. Hence, make sure that you consider it seriously as your next trip!

1. Nomatic Travel Bag

Nomatic Travel Backpack - The Broad Life Reviews

Being in the number one on the list of the best travel backpack in 2018 is the Nomatic Travel Bag.

The Nomatic Travel Bag is one of the most functional travel backpacks on the market. It combines the best features of a backpack in a duffel back, so you can use it however you want.

The Best Functional Design

From a design perspective, the Nomatic measures 21 by 14 by 9 inches and has a maximum packing capacity of 40 liters, which means that you can store every necessary and important thing for your next journey. This is also a waterproof backpack with 100% waterproof tarpaulin material, which is widely known for its durability, endurance, and capability to withstand various weather conditions.

Durable Waterproof Material of Nomatic Travel Bag - The Broad Life Reviews
Nomatic’s durable waterproof material.

Moreover, what makes the Nomatic a unique and top choice for you is its many available compartments, which will ensure that you won’t have anything left at home when you’re traveling. To illustrate, there is a compartment designed specifically for keeping laptops of up to 15 inches in a tablet pocket as well. Hence, in terms of tech equipment, you will be more satisfied than ever. There is even a separate laundry bag, which you can take advantage of in order to store your clothes. In addition, there is a shoe compartment that is spacious enough to keep typical male shoes. One of the most useful pockets is the quick access fleece pocket, which is a really cool addition as you can keep your eyeglasses and other similar useful accessories that play an important role in your travel experience.

Laptop & Tablet Pocket of Nomatic Travel Bag - The Broad Life Reviews Travel Backpack
Detachable Waist Straps of Nomatic Travel Bag - The Broad Life Reviews

Before we go to the security compartments, there are two things that should be mentioned. The first is the magnetic water bottle pockets on both sides, in which you can store your plastic water bottle or thermos without any worry. The second one is the bag’s full perimeter expansion and the full perimeter zippers that will let you expand the bag according to your needs.

Finally, the Nomatic Travel Bag has a Radio Frequency Identification pocket with a TSA-approved lock as well as an airport-friendly design, which will allow you to be checked in a matter of seconds.

Here is a video that fully describes the Nomatic Travel Bag:

Overall, you won’t go wrong if you ever purchase this Nomatic Travel Bag because it has everything that would make it your greatest companion.

Why It’s The Best Investment For Your Trip?

Over time using different products, I learned one thing: you get what you pay for.

I live in Vietnam and you know, not a really bad point but there are a lot of fake products that you can easily find anywhere. A small backpack for $15, a laptop backpack for $20, cool backpacks for $25, or large backpacks for $30. You can find almost any products you want at any price. However, those all share the same point. It all gets problems and broken after a few months of use.

Imagine you are traveling, or hiking in a mountain, then your travel backpack gets a problem and you are stuck with a lot of things in your carry-on. I was one time I had that problem when traveling in the North Mountain Area of Vietnam. I had to find another fake bag to keep up my trip and wait till I went back to a big city for a really good, authentic one.

Therefore, with the average price at around $150, you can use the travel backpacks for a long time, even many years with a lot of really great features. That’s definitely worth your investment in your companion!

Note:
This post contains affiliate links from which I can earn commissions if you use services or buy products from the blog’s partners. If you love the blog, please use the services or buy the products. In that way, you give me support for the blog’s maintenance and development. I appreciate it a lot and thank you for that!

Khoi Nguyen builds The Broad Life with a desire to inspire people go exploring the world and live a more interesting, experience, and adventurous life. This blog shares the stories, pictures, and experiences at destinations where he has traveled to.

28 Comments

  • Dallas Prevost, MD with Glam Vacays, LLC

    Very informative post, Khoi! I agree that, in most cases, you get what you pay for. As a former New Yorker, I also agree that there are a lot of “functional” and more affordable imitations readily available from any street vendor or bargain shop. But when you’re traveling abroad on vacation or business, why risk a backpack malfunction? Thanks for narrowing down the research with some great choices. Best wishes and happy travels.

  • Toti and Alessia

    Really a great post. I love to read about bags, becouse somethimes the circumstances changing and you need to adapt yourself with new gears or weather conditions. Choice the best backpack can save your trip, save your back and your business as well sometimes.

    • binguyen

      Yeah I agree. Travel bag is always the first thing I think of for any trips!
      Happy travel! 😀

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Hope you find a suitable travel backpack for your journey! ^^

  • Kavita Favelle

    Really helpful, not only in terms of being able to understand the features of each bag much better than the product descriptions but some thoughts on what to look for.

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Thanks for your complement! 😀
      Hope you find the most suitable bag for your trips 🙂

  • Aisha

    Yes! I found this post at just the right time! I’ve been painstakingly researching which backpack to get as I prepare for my Eurotrip and this has totally helped! I think the Tortuga is exactly what I need, going to check it out and hopefully make a purchase soon! Thanks!

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Thank you! 🙂
      If you make a purchase via the link in my post, you will support me maintaining the blog by the commission from the Amazon Affiliate Program.
      Hope the Tortuga fit your needs and happy travel Eurotrip! 😀

  • Shane Prather

    Love that you gave both affordable and versatile options. I’m not currently in the market for one but when mine wears down will keep these in mind!

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Yeah I try to give different advantages of each bag so everyone can make the choice easier 🙂

    • Khoi Nguyen

      I want to give different advantages of each bag so everyone can make the choice easier 🙂

  • Behind the Carry-On

    This was so useful! I’m always looking for ways to protect my computer and headphones without them getting too bulky!

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Yeah me too, I always try to take good care my laptop on every trip. So a good travel bag helps a lot 🙂

  • Alexander Popkov

    None of them unfortunately, I carry DSLR and lenses, so my requirements for a backpack are very specific. I would prefer Vanguard alta 48 or something

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Thanks for your comment!
      I will consider bags with compartments for cameras in the next reviews 🙂

  • Anna

    I agree with your post. Specially about how easy to get tricked with duplicate products. I used to live in Vietnam too, love that city 🙂

    • Khoi Nguyen

      I’m so happy that you love Vietnam, and agree with my post 🙂
      Thank you!

  • Anwesha Guha

    Finding the right backpack for you is tough job. You dont want to carry much but there are times when you wished you brought something to your trip. This guide is really helpful for all the people like me out there.

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Yeah it is, finding a right backpack is always tough, to me also.
      Happy that this post helps you 🙂

  • Katie

    A good backpack is important as you don’t want to hurt your back whilst travelling. This is a great list and i like that they are all a nice size. I think a 40L is perfect as it holds enough and you can take it on a flight as carry on. I am surprised to not to see the backpack i use on here though. I am currently using a 40L Quechua backpack. It was only cheap but i have used it for 3 years non-stop and it has been so comfortable and it’s still going strong.

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Yeah I think the 40L is suitable for most of travel. And thanks for updating me the 40L Quechua, I’m gonna have a check 🙂

  • WanderlustBeautyDreams

    I’m in the market for a new travel backpack an loved reading all your suggestions!

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Hope you find the one that suitable and being your best companion 🙂
      And thank you in advance if you buy a backpack via my affiliate link ^^

  • Kavita Favelle

    Great list, I love the summary of the strengths of each one at the top before the more detailed breakdown on each individual backpack. Gives me some great food for thought when I replace my current aged old thing!

    • Khoi Nguyen

      Thank you! I’m so happy that the summary in the beginning helps your choice 🙂
      And thank you in advance if you return and order a bag via my link! That support me and the blog a lot 🙂

  • Jas

    I’ve been looking for a new one so perfect timing! Think I’ll go with the AmazonBasics. Love the compartmentalization features and looks handy that it can be worn so many different ways!

    • Khoi Nguyen

      The AmazonBasics is definitely a great choice. Enjoy your new bag!
      If possible please send me a review after you use, thank you! =)

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