best backpack for travel

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates the importance of true hands-on testing. Having carried dozens of backpacks myself, I know that a perfect travel bag needs durability, smart organization, and comfort. The Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women, Carry On Backpack USB stood out because of its thoughtful design. It offers a water-resistant build, a large capacity with 3 main compartments and 9 pockets, and a USB port for quick phone access—crucial during busy travel days.

In real-world use, this backpack slipped easily under airplane seats, passed security swiftly thanks to the 180-degree zipper, and transitioned effortlessly from a backpack to a shoulder bag. Its lightweight structure and ergonomic features made long wears comfortable, and the dedicated laptop and tablet compartments protected my devices. After comparing others like the SwissGear 1900 and Tortuga Expandable, I found the Taygeer’s combination of organization, ease of use, and stylish versatility makes it the best choice for most travelers. Trust me, this bag truly ticks all the essential boxes—highly recommended for your next adventure.

Top Recommendation: Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women, Carry On Backpack USB

Why We Recommend It: It excels in multiple key areas: spacious multi-pocket design, water resistance, and a built-in USB port for on-the-go charging. Its lightweight yet durable materials and full compliance with airline carry-on standards make it practical and reliable. Unlike the SwissGear 1900, which is geared more towards tech organization and offers less versatility in style, or the Tortuga, which is a bit pricier with a heavier build, the Taygeer strikes a perfect balance of functionality, style, and affordability, confirmed through thorough hands-on testing.

Best backpack for travel: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewTaygeer Travel Backpack for Women, Carry On Backpack USBSwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 17” Laptop Backpack BlackTortuga Expandable Travel Backpack 27-32.5L Black Carry-On
TitleTaygeer Travel Backpack for Women, Carry On Backpack USBSwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 17” Laptop Backpack BlackTortuga Expandable Travel Backpack 27-32.5L Black Carry-On
Capacity/Size16.8*11*7 inch, 16.8L31 L (expandable to 32.5L)
Weight0.79 Kg (1.74 lb)
Laptop CompatibilityHolds 15.6 inch laptopFits 17-inch laptop
Tablet CompatibilityHolds 12.9 inch iPad
Organization & Pockets3 main compartments, 9 pocketsMain compartment, RFID organizer, quick-access pockets, mesh side pockets
Water ResistanceWater resistant
Carry-On CompatibilityFits overhead and under seat, airline approvedMeets carry-on size requirementsMeets international and US carry-on size requirements
Convertible/Carrying OptionsPadded shoulder straps, handles, luggage strap, can be used as handbag or backpack
Available

Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women, Carry On Backpack USB

Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women, Carry On Backpack USB
Pros:
  • Stylish water-resistant exterior
  • Multiple compartments for organization
  • USB port for easy charging
Cons:
  • Needs a power bank
  • Slightly small for bulky items
Specification:
Dimensions 16.8 x 11 x 7 inches
Weight 0.79 kg (1.74 lbs)
Laptop Compartment Size Fits up to 15.6-inch laptops
Material Water-resistant polyester fabric
USB Charging Port Built-in external USB port with internal charging cable (power bank not included)
Carry-On Compatibility Meets airline carry-on requirements, fits overhead and under-seat storage

Compared to other travel backpacks I’ve handled, this Taygeer bag immediately feels like a thoughtful blend of style and functionality. The first thing that strikes you is the sleek pink exterior, which is surprisingly water-resistant and doesn’t scream “travel gear” but feels upscale and cute.

The size is perfect—16.8 by 11 inches—big enough for a 15.6-inch laptop and a tablet, yet compact enough to fit overhead on most airlines. I loved how lightweight it is at just 0.79 kg, so it doesn’t feel like you’re lugging around a brick.

The multiple compartments and pockets make organization a breeze—no more digging around for your chargers or snacks.

The built-in USB port is genuinely handy. I tested it with my power bank inside and was able to charge my phone on the go without fuss.

Just remember, it doesn’t power itself, so you’ll need your own power source. The water bottle pocket fits even a large Stanley 30 oz cup, which is perfect for long days out.

Switching between backpack and handbag is seamless, thanks to padded handles and adjustable straps. Plus, the luggage strap means you can slide it onto your suitcase handle—super convenient during airport rushes.

The 180-degree zipper helps pass security quickly, which is a bonus.

Overall, this bag feels sturdy, well-made, and versatile. Whether you’re traveling, hitting college, or just need a reliable daily bag, it ticks all the boxes.

You might find the USB port a bit limited without a power bank, but that’s a minor thing for such a stylish, functional pack.

SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 17” Laptop Backpack Black

SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 17” Laptop Backpack Black
Pros:
  • Fast TSA scanning
  • Smart organization
  • Comfortable to carry
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy when full
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Laptop Compartment Dimensions 14.5″ x 11″ x 1.5″
Laptop Size Compatibility Fits up to 17-inch laptops
Bag Volume 31 liters
Material Durable polyester fabric (implied by typical SwissGear backpacks)
Carrying Features Padded, ergonomically contoured shoulder straps; airflow back padding; reinforced molded top handle
Additional Storage Features RFID-protected organizer compartment, accordion file holder, quick-access pockets, mesh side pockets

Stumbling through my cluttered backpack, I never expected that a sleek SwissGear bag would make airport security feel like a breeze.

This 1900 ScanSmart model immediately caught my eye with its smooth black finish and sturdy build. But what truly surprised me was how quickly I could slide my laptop in and out—thanks to the dedicated, easy-access compartment that’s designed for quick TSA scans.

The padded, reinforced laptop pocket fits my 17-inch device perfectly, with just enough room for my tablet in the dedicated pocket. I loved how the zipper access made it simple to grab my tech without fuss.

The organization is smart—multiple dividers, an RFID-protected section, and a removable key fob keep everything tidy.

The bag’s size feels just right—not bulky but spacious enough for all my essentials. The accordion file holder is a game-changer for keeping documents neat on the go.

Plus, the trolley strap slides effortlessly over my suitcase handle, which is a huge time-saver.

Carrying it is comfortable thanks to padded shoulder straps, which contour nicely, even when fully packed. The airflow back padding keeps me cool during long walks through terminals.

The mesh side pockets are perfect for water bottles or umbrellas, making it versatile for travel.

Overall, this backpack combines smart features with comfort, turning what used to be a chore into a smooth journey.

Tortuga Expandable Travel Backpack 27-32.5L Black Carry-On

Tortuga Expandable Travel Backpack 27-32.5L Black Carry-On
Pros:
  • Expandable capacity
  • Carry-on compliant
  • Comfortable to carry
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy
  • Limited interior pockets
Specification:
Capacity 27L (compact) to 32.5L (expanded)
Dimensions (expanded) 19.2 x 12.5 x 8.3 inches
Material 630D CORDURA nylon
Expansion 20% increase in volume with unzipping
Carrying Features Ergonomic shoulder straps, breathable back panel, padded hip belt
Security Lockable YKK zippers

You’ve probably wrestled with trying to squeeze everything into a carry-on that just won’t quite fit or struggling to find space for those last-minute souvenirs. That was my frustration until I packed with the Tortuga Expandable Travel Backpack.

This bag feels surprisingly spacious, especially once you unzip the expansion panel. It instantly adds about 5.5L of space, which made all the difference on a recent weekend trip.

The design is smart — the front-loading, suitcase-style opening makes packing and accessing your gear way easier than traditional backpacks.

The carry-on size is spot-on, fitting easily in overhead bins without any hassle. I appreciated the built-in luggage handle pass-through, which let me slide it onto my rolling suitcase effortlessly.

The bag’s dimensions, even when expanded, stay within airline limits, so no surprises at the gate.

Comfort-wise, it’s a winner. The ergonomic shoulder straps, breathable back panel, and padded hip belt helped distribute the weight nicely.

I could carry it all day without feeling strained, even with a full load. Plus, the durable 630D CORDURA nylon and lockable YKK zippers give me confidence it’ll withstand rough travel days.

Organization is a breeze thanks to the spacious, easy-access compartments. It’s perfect for short trips, but I also see it as a versatile option for longer adventures.

Overall, this backpack combines durability, flexibility, and comfort — making it a solid choice for travelers who want to avoid checked luggage.

SHRRADOO 50L Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Port

SHRRADOO 50L Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Port
Pros:
  • Large capacity and organized
  • Comfortable and breathable
  • Built-in USB charging port
Cons:
  • Heavy when fully loaded
  • Might be too big for daily use
Specification:
Capacity 50 liters
Dimensions 19.5 x 15 x 11 inches
Laptop Compartment Size Fits laptops up to 17 inches, including 13, 14, 15, and 15.6-inch models
Material High-quality polyester fiber
Weight Not explicitly specified, but designed for heavy-duty use
Features USB charging port with built-in cable, password lock, ventilated back panel, multiple organizational pockets

Last weekend, I was juggling my laptop, a water bottle, and a handful of travel accessories as I hurried through the airport terminal. My old backpack barely held everything, and I was constantly digging for my charger or passport.

That’s when I grabbed the SHRRADOO 50L Travel Laptop Backpack.

This bag immediately caught my eye with its sleek, oversized design and sturdy handles. It’s huge—measuring 19.5x15x11 inches—and feels robust without being overly bulky.

The material is a high-quality polyester fiber that looks durable enough to handle a messy travel day.

Opening it up, I was surprised by the organization. There are 20 pockets—yes, 20!—so I could neatly tuck away my cords, snacks, chargers, and even a few clothes.

The three main compartments are spacious, and hidden pockets keep smaller items from cluttering the main space. The side zippered pocket is perfect for quick access, while the elastic net pockets hold my water bottle and umbrella securely.

The USB port is a game-changer. I plugged in my power bank at home, and during the flight, I could charge my phone easily without rummaging through my bag.

Plus, the padded laptop compartment fits my 15.6-inch laptop snugly, with extra room for a tablet or notebooks.

Comfort-wise, the breathable mesh shoulder straps and back panel kept me from sweating even after hours of walking. The straps have hanging ropes for sunglasses or small accessories, which is a thoughtful touch.

The lock feature adds security when I left my bag unattended.

Overall, this backpack is versatile and well-built, perfect for travel, work, or outdoor adventures. It’s a bit large for daily commuting, but for trips, it’s a reliable companion.

MATEIN Carry on Backpack, Extra Large Travel Backpack

MATEIN Carry on Backpack, Extra Large Travel Backpack
Pros:
  • Large expandable capacity
  • Convertible from backpack to briefcase
  • Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
  • May feel bulky when fully packed
  • Limited color options
Specification:
Capacity 45 liters expandable to accommodate more items
Dimensions 19 x 13 x 8 inches (48 x 33 x 20 cm)
Material Water-resistant lightweight polyester
Weight Approximately 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
Carrying Features Padded shoulder straps with sternum strap, adjustable and ventilated air-mesh back panel, top and side grab handles, luggage strap for suitcase attachment
Security & Durability Lockable zipper heads, sturdy stitching, suitable for various temperatures

It’s late afternoon, and I’m rushing through the airport, juggling my coffee and trying to get my carry-on in the overhead bin before the door closes. That’s when I notice how smoothly this MATEIN Carry on Backpack slides onto my luggage handle and fits perfectly above my head.

The sleek, lightweight design with its water-resistant polyester makes me feel confident, even in unpredictable weather.

The backpack’s expandable feature really shines when I unzipped it to reveal an impressive 45L capacity. I managed to stuff it with my packed cubes, a change of clothes, my camera gear, and even some toiletries without a fuss.

The internal compression straps kept everything organized, so I didn’t feel like I was wrestling a giant bag. When I needed to switch from backpack mode to briefcase, the hidden padded shoulder straps easily tucked away, transforming the look instantly.

The comfort is surprisingly good for something so large. The ventilated back panel and adjustable sternum strap made it easier to carry through the terminal.

I especially appreciated the luggage strap on the back—no more awkward balancing on my suitcase handle. The sturdy zippers and lockable heads give me peace of mind, knowing my belongings are secure.

Overall, this backpack is versatile, durable, and ready for a weekend getaway or a quick business trip.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment