The best travel backpacks in the UK 2023

If you are one of the one in three French camping enthusiasts or if you like to hike in the wilderness, a travel backpack will be useful for a pleasant outdoor experience. Practical and ergonomic, this equipment has been brilliantly designed to respect your morphology and adapt to long trips without tiring you. However, to find the ideal model, it is not easy to find your way (compartments, lining, capacity, etc.). Refer to our selection of the best travel backpacks to make the best choice.

Millet Ubic 40 1
8/10

Best value for money

Millet Ubic 40

The best travel bag in 2021

This hiking backpack was designed for the mountains. Its large volume and its vocation for carrying alpine equipment makes it an excellent choice.

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This bag is very well thought out with a double bottom, several compartments, many straps, and a cover in case of rain. It is comfortable to carry and distributes the load well so that you can walk for a long time without having a sore back. To its credit, it has adjustable straps and a belt to ensure excellent freedom of movement. Ergonomics and comfort are also at the rendezvous via padded shoulder straps, a reinforced back and well thought-out hand rests. This backpack is equipped with the Variloop system which is a removable and size-adjustable attachment system to fix any type of equipment such as snowshoes, a tent, a mattress, a stick, etc... Normally, this travel backpack costs more than 100 € but right now, it is on sale. This is a unique opportunity not to be missed.

Bojly 40 liters 2
7/10

Best value for money

Bojly 40 liters

The best entry-level travel bag

Lightweight, compact and robust, this backpack will convince you with its many attractive features: generous compartments, nice design, high water and tear resistance and the list goes on!

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With a capacity of 40 L, the Bojly can be used on a daily basis. Originally designed for hiking, this waterproof backpack has many uses. It can be used for school, travel, camping or trekking. Its large interior volume and its numerous storage spaces allow you to carry 2 bottles, a coat, a laptop, an external battery and a large first aid kit. The whole thing looks solid. The external side pockets are so big that 1.5L bottles fit in them without any problem. When folded, the Bojly even doubles as a purse! For added convenience, the manufacturer thought of passages for carabiner, USB charging and headphones.

Osprey Jet 12 3
7/10

A great choice

Osprey Jet 12

The best value for money

With this high quality backpack, let your toddlers discover the joys of hiking. Ergonomic, ultra-light and sized to fit, the Osprey Jet 12 will ensure optimal comfort even for a 4 year old.

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If you are looking for a compact backpack or simply the one with the best price/performance ratio, the Osprey Jet 12 offers more than convincing performance. The backpack is not too big, is very comfortable thanks to its wide shoulder straps and has a zipped pocket inside. Basically, it offers a generous space to put all your child's little things. Its padded back offers a good level of comfort to the wearer and its strap attached to the chest allows the bag to remain tight to the body without encumbering the child. The bag also has reflective fluorescent patterns that ensure your child's visibility in low light conditions. Some adults have even bought one for themselves. All in all, this is a product that did not leave us indifferent and that we recommend you without hesitation!

Pacsafe Exp 55 4
7/10

Very good

Pacsafe Exp 55

The best for safe travel

From now on, with this travel backpack from Pacsafe, you will be safe wherever you go. No one will be able to steal your stuff or sneak illicit objects into your backpack.

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Pacsafe is a brand known for the high security of its bags. Today, it is still putting all its know-how into this Exp 55 model so that you can enjoy a light (1.8 kg), ergonomic and practical equipment. Many satisfied buyers have particularly appreciated the bag's sober design, its large capacity, its intelligent locking system and its quick access. In addition, the Exp 55 is very comfortable to carry on your back and can be easily and quickly transformed into a kind of suitcase with 2 padded handles. It is also important to note that if you have to fly, the bag fits in the cabin without any problems. If safety is an essential criterion for you, then the Pacsafe Exp 55 is the right travel backpack for you.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best travel bag

Any specific needs?

The best travel bag in 2021

The best entry-level travel bag

The best value for money

The best for safe travel

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best travel backpacks

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP EXCELLENT VERY GOOD
Millet Ubic 40 5
8/10
Bojly 40 liters 6
7/10
Osprey Jet 12 7
7/10
Pacsafe Exp 55 8
7/10
OUR SELECTION
Millet Ubic 40
Bojly 40 liters
Osprey Jet 12
Pacsafe Exp 55
This hiking backpack was designed for the mountains. Its large volume and its vocation for carrying alpine equipment makes it an excellent choice.
Lightweight, compact and robust, this backpack will convince you with its many attractive features: generous compartments, nice design, high water and tear resistance and the list goes on!
With this high quality backpack, let your toddlers discover the joys of hiking. Ergonomic, ultra-light and sized to fit, the Osprey Jet 12 will ensure optimal comfort even for a 4 year old.
From now on, with this travel backpack from Pacsafe, you will be safe wherever you go. No one will be able to steal your stuff or sneak illicit objects into your backpack.
Material : Polyester
Material: high quality nylon
Child's travel backpack
Material : Polyester
Adapted to the female and male morphology
Breathable padded cotton carrying straps
Capacity : 12 liters
Adapted to women and men's morphology
Capacity : 40 litres
Capacity: 40 liters
2 zippered pockets on the waistband
Capacity : 55 liters
Foam backrest
A laptop sleeve
Featuring a chest belt with whistle
Breathable and padded back
Adjustable height
3 front pockets
Padded back
2 padded shoulder straps

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Buying guide - travel bag

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How to choose your travel bag

Use the following criteria to help you choose the right travel bag for you, so that you can travel with peace of mind.

#1 - The size

First, make a list of the things you need to take with you and choose your backpack accordingly. For a day trip at most, a bag with a volume of less than 20 liters is recommended. For a weekend stay, we recommend a volume of 20 to 40 liters depending on whether you are traveling alone or as a couple. A bag of 40 to 50 liters is recommended for a stay of one week to 10 days. Finally, a large travel bag of 55 to 70 liters is recommended for a stay of 2 weeks to 1 month. However, don't forget that the bigger the bag, the more space it will take up. You should therefore limit the size to the weight that your body can support. In addition to your physical strength, the mode of transportation will also limit the size of your travel bag. For example, if you're traveling by plane, some airlines set a fairly strict size and weight limit that must not be exceeded.

#2 - The coating

A travel bag doesn't have to be 100% waterproof. But it should still be able to withstand a little drizzle or puddle. Opt for a waterproof, lightweight cover if possible. Waterproof fabrics such as nylon, high-density polyester and heavy-duty cotton offer the best value. Leather is also an excellent choice, as long as it is not synthetic or it will deteriorate quickly. Whenever possible, choose a bag with a lining. Also, make sure that the lining dries quickly to prevent the bag from getting moldy.

#3 - Storage compartments

A good travel bag should have several pockets and storage compartments. You should be able to store everything you need in them in an orderly fashion. The main compartment will be used to store clothes and shoes. The pockets will hold toiletries and beauty kits, tablet, travel charger, various documents, etc. The storage spaces should be separate for better organization of the travel bag.

#4 - The closing

Having

a secure bag will save you the hassle of the possibility of losing stuff or someone hiding forbidden products in your bag. The main compartment should have a double zipper closure. This way, it will be possible to lock it to secure the interior and its contents. A TSA code lock is a must, especially if you are planning a trip to the United States, Japan, Canada or South Korea. Indeed, the customs of these countries have a special master key allowing them to open your TSA padlock without the lock and, therefore, damage your bag.

#5 - The design

The purpose of a travel bag is not limited to carrying stuff. For years, manufacturers have vied with each other in imagination and ingenuity to create models that are each more elegant than the last. As such, the travel bag has become an extension of the wearer's personality, a fashion accessory. Some models are equipped with wheels and handles, others adopt a more classic look. Whether high-end or affordable, flashy or sober, the design must also take into account ergonomics and comfort of use. Thus, the straps should be padded. A double-tube, height-adjustable handle is ideal for a rolling bag. The bottom of the bag should be as soft as possible to avoid any deformation due to the cramming of the stuff. Finally, a good travel bag should be easy to carry, to spare your back and arms.

Some travel tips

Pack enough medication.

Traveling exposes you to all sorts of adventures, and if you're not careful, to many mishaps as well. To cover all eventualities, don't forget to bring some medication with you. Especially medicine for stomach aches (the most common problems during travel).

Don't pack your entire wardrobe.

Don't try to take your entire wardrobe with you - it's mission impossible and will only make you feel cluttered. Take only the most practical clothes with you, preferably those that don't wrinkle. This will save you a lot of trouble.

Take plastic bags with you.

There's nothing worse than having a wet towel or wet clothes in your suitcase. Or not having enough room in your suitcase to separate clean and dirty underwear. To avoid this kind of embarrassment, don't forget to bring plastic bags.

Roll up your clothes when you pack.

To save space, roll up your clothes so they are more compact and don't get too wrinkled. If you have valuables, wrap your clothes around them to protect them and save space at the same time.

Invest in a quick-drying towel.

If you're staying at a hotel, you may not need this item. However, if you're the type of person who prefers hostels, this can be a lifesaver. It can even double as a beach towel if you're heading to a more tropical destination.

The different types of travel backpacks

Travel backpacks come in many different types designed to meet various needs and requirements. Here is a closer look at them.

The classic travel backpack

This is the simplest and most practical model in its category. Light, comfortable and practical. Depending on the size, this type of travel bag can have a shoulder strap and carrying handles. In addition to its lightness and ergonomics, its versatility is also an asset. In fact, apart from travel, you can also use it as a city bag for smaller sizes or as a hiking bag for medium-sized bags.

Advantages:

  • Lightweight
  • Affordable price
  • Versatile
  • Several models available

Disadvantages :

  • Low capacity

Who is it for?

If you are used to traveling light, this type of bag is for you. It is just right if you want to use your travel bag as a city bag every now and then.

The duffel backpack

This is without a

doubt the most versatile of the travel bags. It can be used for vacation, as a city bag and even as a duffle bag. Also known as aduffle bag, the duffel bag gets its name from its rounded shape, which is very convenient for sneaking around. Generally, this type of travel bag is very light. It can be moved easily thanks to a shoulder strap or handles on the top. Finally, the capacity of this type of bag is huge.

Pros:

  • Large interior capacity
  • Lightweight
  • Practical
  • Versatile

Disadvantages :

  • Lack of robustness

Who is it for?

Those who want to invest in a large capacity bag without breaking the bank may want to forgo trolley cases and opt for a duffel bag.

The diligence backpack

Who

said this type of travel bag was only seen in westerns? The stagecoach bag, also called doctorbag, is coming back in force lately. Its vintage side, its crazy class, its design and its very practical old-fashioned opening system are making more and more followers. Moreover, its versatility makes this bag usable in everyday life.

Advantages:

  • Generally covered with leather
  • Versatile
  • Vintage

Disadvantages:

  • No shoulder strap
  • Ideal in small size
  • Expensive

Who is it for?

Lovers of vintage and beautiful products will be delighted by a diligence travel bag. Small in size, it can be very practical. Bulky, it will quickly become bulky.

The travel backpack with wheels

This

type of travel bag can be similar to a hybrid carry-on. It is equipped with two to four single or double wheels. Some of the wheels can be rotated 360 degrees. In all cases, the bag is equipped with a telescopic handle with adjustable height, which allows you to pull it with less effort. Thanks to the carrying handles on the sides, it can also be carried in places where the use of wheels is impossible. The sturdiness of this type of bag depends mainly on the coating.

Advantages:

  • Easy to carry
  • Practical

Disadvantages:

  • Not always robust
  • Expensive

Who is it for?

There is nothing like a travel bag with wheels, which can be moved without straining your arm muscles or hurting your back. Be careful, however, to choose the right covering.

The children's travel bag

We

notice this type of bag with a compact shape, a playful design and very flashy colors. Some models feature characters from animated movies that are popular with children. This type of travel bag is very light and has a small capacity because it is designed to be carried by the youngest. You will be spoiled for choice among the multitude of models offered. Be careful though, this type of bag is often not very robust.

Pros:

  • Attractive design
  • Affordable price
  • Childlike colors and patterns

Disadvantages :

  • Lack of sturdiness
  • Low capacity

Who is it for?

For a family trip, there is nothing like letting your children have their own travel bag. Moreover, the available models are light, which does not risk to exhaust them. Nor you for that matter!

Important

Make sure that the weight of your child's travel backpack does not exceed 10 to 15% of the child's weight. For an adult, the weight of the bag should not exceed 10 to 20% of the wearer's weight.

Why buy a travel bag?

It's a bag for everyone

Everyone needs a backpack. It can be used by schoolchildren and high school students as well as by travelers and hikers. It is the accessory of choice for young people and teenagers because it is the epitome of freedom and youth. Its cool and stylish design makes it a joy for girls and boys alike. Adults will also find their account there. Emblem of the independent, the backpack is the favorite ally of the solitary: military, sportsmen, hunters and even backpackers.

It is your ally for all occasions

The backpack will be your ally for all occasions. It is designed to give you mobility and freedom. It is therefore ideal for all kinds of outings: excursions, trekking, hiking, climbing, extreme sports, vacation. It is even the best for a little stroll in love.

It is practical

Whatever the occasion, a backpack reveals its practicality through the different compartments and pockets it has. It is your dream companion for all your outings. You can even hide valuables in a pocket that only you know where. Its contents remain safe from all external inconveniences such as sunburn, bad weather, rain..., while remaining within easy reach.

It offers a unique wearing comfort

Among the different types of bags, the backpack is by far the most comfortable and easiest to carry. Even in the most difficult situations such as climbing, you can count on it.

It's versatile
It's great looks also make it uniquely versatile. It's suitable for girls and boys, youth and adults. It comes in various models to meet everyone's requirements.

The best brands of travel backpacks

In our opinion, the best brands of travel backpacks in 2022 are :

Samsonite
Eastpak
Osprey
Quechua
Pacsafe

Samsonite was founded by Jess Shwayder in 1910 in Denver and stands out from the crowd with its bold, modern color and print bags that appeal to the younger generation. For followers of this brand, they are unanimous on the fact that Samsonite travel backpacks are ultra strong and durable.

The Eastpak brand, founded by Monte Goldman in 1952 has carved out a reputation for excellence thanks to its bags with bold, modern colors and prints. Basically, sturdy products that have not failed to strike a chord with the younger generation because of their attractive and innovative design.

Founded in 1974, Osprey is a great brand known for the specificity of the back panels of its bags: totally ergonomic and able to evacuate snow. An asset particularly appreciated by many travelers and nature lovers.

Founded in 1997, the brand Quechua specializes in the manufacture of products and equipment for hiking and camping. Brand loyalists agree that Quechua travel backpacks ensure light travel with equipment that is both practical and ergonomic.

Founded in 1998 by Rob Schlipper and Magnus McGlashan, Pacsafe is a travel gear brand known for the anti-theft technology built into its bags, was founded in 1998 by. Here's a guarantee of reliability that has not failed to interest travel and outdoor enthusiasts.

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Millet Ubic 40 9
Millet Ubic 40
Bojly 40 liters 10
Bojly 40 liters
Osprey Jet 12 11
Osprey Jet 12
Pacsafe Exp 55 12
Pacsafe Exp 55

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