You’ve come to the section where picking the right backpack will be one of the most important parts of your travel planning. This part can be very confusing since there are so many minimalist backpacks available. When choosing the best minimalist backpack for your trip always think of quality over a ‘good looking cheap bag’. You can go with a budget option however that travel backpack may not last. There’s nothing worse if your backpack fails in the middle of your trip.
I prefer minimalist backpacks that are less than 50 liters, I try to be as minimalist as possible. That being said you’ll be surprised just how much you can carry using a 40 or 45-liter pack.
What to look for in minimalist backpacks:
- Water-Resistant: Make sure the bag is water-resistant or waterproof. Traveling during a rainy season can be miserable if your bag becomes soaked along with your clothing.
- Loading style: My very first backpack was a top loader which was a pain because the items on the bottom were difficult to access. I look for backpacks that open like a suitcase or have the ‘U Zip’ type opening
- Compartments: any good backpack will have multiple compartments allowing you to store your belongings. Make sure the laptop compartment is in the back, a side compartment to keep an umbrella and a simple side pocket to keep your water bottle.
- Security Features: Most backpacks don’t come with a security feature allowing you to secure the zippers. That’s where TSA-friendly locks come in to secure your bag.
- Padded Hip belt: This simple feature will help distribute the weight of the bag more evenly.
These minimalist backpacks will come in handy with trips that are 10, 14 even 30 days long. These bags are carry-on friendly so you save money on ‘bag check’ fees. Let’s take a look at your options.
Favorite Minimalist Backpacks:
1) Tomtoc – Navigator-T66 40L Backpack (#1 Budget Backpack)
Here’s a phenomenal budget backpack that punches well above it’s weight! You can seriously have a summer long travel with this bag. This impressive 40 liter bag can hold 10 to days worth of clothing plus 17 inch laptop and toiletries with no problem. The only downside I noticed is the fact there is no hip belt and the side handle is rather simple. Despite this the Tomtoc Navigator-T66 is TSA friendly and flight approved.
- Large Capacity & Organized: This Navigator-T66 carry-on backpack provides ample space for all your travel essentials. It features a large main compartment with a separate laptop compartment, and several other pockets and compartments for organization. Dimensions: 20.47 x 13.39 x 9.06 inch. Depending on the packing methods and contents, the actual usable capacity ranges between 38-40L
- Convenient Storage: You can reach the main compartment from the quick access front pocket for easy reach of your travel essentials on the go, and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking; The tech compartment can accommodate up to 17″ laptop and 13 inch iPad with accessories; Front pocket, top pocket and side pockets for easy access to glasses, documents and travel liquids, etc.
- TSA Friendly & Flight Approved: The laptop compartment is friendly designed to be opened 90°-180° for security scanning, helps get through airport security checkpoints quick and easy; And the dimension meets the maximum size requirements by IATA flight, it’s ideal for airplane traveling
2) Osprey – Sojourn Porter Travel Pack 46-liter
This carry-on bag is just plain impressive with loads of space, depending on how well you can pack. You’ll have plenty of space for a 3 week trip (or more) no problem. I can’t get over the sleek design and functionality of the Osprey Sojourn Porter backpack. It has a bucket style opening to make packing so much easier and it has a ‘straight-jacket’ style compression with padded sides for bag protection. The laptop or tablet is stored in the back of the bag. There’s a reason why seasoned travelers love this backpack. Don’t sleep on this one!
- Heavy-duty bluesign approved, recycled high tenacity and ballistic
- Comfortable AirScape backpanel with tuckaway harness and hipbelt
- Unique Straight Jacket compression provides extra padding and load control
- TSID luggage registration included with each piece
- 26L x 15W x 4H
3) Osprey – Farpoint 40L Travel Backpack
Here’s another favorite with one-bag travelers. Osprey’s reputation is well earned with it’s commitment to durability and quality. The Osprey Farpoint backpack also double as a duffel bag with stowaway harness (in back panel) and hip belt tuck away. Rear side zipper allows you to store your 15” laptop
- Adjustable torso fit
- External Gear Attachment loops
- Padded top and side handles
- The harness and hipbelt stow away for safekeeping while checked and deploy quickly for any path or trail
4) NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag – Duffel/Backpack
This bag is very impressive with its design boasting 20 + features. This is a highly organized bag that was made with the frequent flyer / traveler in mind. Nomatic boasts their bag is “the most functional bag ever”.
| NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag- Duffel/Backpack | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | 40 liter capacity Water Resistant Contains waist Straps + laundry bag Multiple compartments Converts to duffel bag 20 + features | Check For Price |
5) Peak Design – Travel Line Backpack 45L
The Peak Design can expand from a 35L to a 45L which means you can convert it to a day pack whenever you feel like it. Made of weatherproof 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell.
- Package size (L x W x H): 12 cm x 33 cm x 53.5 cm
- Package weight: 2.13 kg
- Package number: 1
- Colour: black
6) RipCurl F-Light 4WD 45L Midnight Travel Bag
I use this bag mainly for my domestic US travel and it’s perfect for a 7 to 10 day trip. If you wanted to, you can go on a summer-long trip with this roller + a 30 liter backpack. That’s a total of 75 liters you can easily stow away as carry-on luggage. All in all it has a very impressive design and carry-on friendly.
| F-Light 4WD 45L Midnight Travel Bag | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | 45 liter capacity Roller type carry-on Internal compression straps Lockable zippers Made from recycled polyester | Check For Price |
7) Pakt – The Travel Backpack
Pakt is another favorite amongst backpackers and for good reason. Pakt is loaded with smart features for seasoned travelers. Starting with the clamshell design the fabric is water resistant with loads of pockets / compartments allowing you to store your clothing, toiletries and electronics with ease and quick access.
The flagship backpack comes in two bag sizes; 35L and 45L and is carry-on compliant with most airlines however the dimensions may not be within limits considering the backpack is malleable depending on how you pack. However, I’ve traveled with a 45L backpack and was never asked to check my bag at the gate.
| Pakt – The Travel Backpack | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | Comes in 35 and 45 liter pack Exterior is made from 500D recycled nylon YKK zippers throughout Durable water resistant coating Padded laptop compartment fits up to 16” Comes with a lifetime warranty | Check For Price |
8) Monos – Carry-On Plus
Here’s another roller carry-on with Monos takeing pride with their rollers as this comes with a limited lifetime warranty (cosmetic is not covered) and contains TSA-approved anti-theft locking zippers. This comes loaded with; a built-in compression pad, anti-microbial interior fabric, aerospace-grade, water-resistant hard shell. Monos believes in their product so much they offer 100 days to try it out. If you don’t like it, send it back. Lastly, they offer free shipping to US and Canada.
| Monos – Carry-On Plus | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | 48 liter capacity Poly-carbonate shell TSA approved locking zippers Built-in compression pad Monos Quality Free shipping to US and Canada | Check For Price |
9) Pacsafe Venturesafe 45L Anti-Theft Backpack
The Pacsafe is a favorite with travelers with its anti-theft design and two lockable main compartments. The fabric is cut resistant for max security (lightweight steel mesh) protects against ‘slash and grab’ type theft. Love the Interlocking zippers with cut resistant fabric.
- ANTI-THEFT DESIGN – With securable and puncture resistant zippers (can also be locked with padlock)….
- ORGANIZATION – 2* Lockable Main Compartments: Roomy main one opens suitcase style plus smaller…
- LARGE & COMFY – With padded & adjust. shoulder straps (25.2″ to 36.22″) and adjust. hip belt for…
10) Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack
There are so many packs to choose from but the Cotopaxi Allpa is a favorite among travelers. The clam-shell design is perfect for a 7 day or even a 2 week trip. Adding to the value is the security zippers, sturdy straps and pockets. Don’t think the 42 liters isn’t enough, remember to pack lite and use compression cubes to ensure you can pack all your clothing for the week.
- Weight-distributing, low-profile harness system.
- Carry-on-compatible 42L capacity. TPU-coated 1000D polyester.
- Suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment. Large zippered mesh compartment on the right side. Subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left side.
- Padded laptop and tablet sleeve. Shortcut zipper to main compartment. Top zippered pocket. Security YKK zippers.
- Carabiner lash loops. Tuck-away straps. 4 reinforced grab handles. Included rain cover
Travel Backpack vs Roller Suitcase?
If you plan to travel the world visiting multiple countries and doing lots of activities, a roller suitcase may be a little cumbersome getting in the way. Carry-On rollers make far more sense when you’re visiting 2 – 3 countries for 9 to 12 days. You’re essentially staying 3 to 4 days in each country so that’s fine. If you’re planning a serious trip going to several counties from hostel to hostel and off the beaten path, then a versatile backpack is the way to go. I typically will use my roller for my domestic trips but a backpack for international trips.
Bonus: Crossbody Sling Bags
1) Tomtoc – The Aviator-T33 Sling Bag with RFID Blocking
Seems that Tomtoc is at it again with their Aviator-T33 crossbody sling bag. They have two sizes you can choose from 1.5L or a 3.5L I got the 1.5L sling and used it on my most recent trip to the Balkans and I loved it. I primarily use the smaller sling for my in-fight necessities. I was able to fit my eye mask, ear plugs, wet wipes, dental care and some other items I want easy access to. I highly recommend this crossbody sling for your travels.
- Adjustable Carrying Options: The Aviator-T33 1.5L Chest Bag can seamlessly convert into a versatile Sling Bag, making it an ideal companion for travel, everyday use, or any on-the-go activity. Its…
- Efficient On-the-Go Partner: Efficiently organizes and secures smaller essentials, perfect for short outings or daily activities. Easily store your mobile phone, credit cards, and cash for quick…
- Advanced Security Features: Features RFID protection to guard against unauthorized scanning and potential fraud, while the water-resistant Nylon fabric keeps your belongings dry and safe even on rainy…
2) WEIXIER Anti-Theft Sling Bag
This is the exact same sling bag I have and love it. It makes a damn impressive day pack. I was able to fit my 10.1 TAB + Case + tablet keyboard + cables + mouse + power bank + a book. I still had some room left over for a rain jacket. Additional features include; scratch and water resistant, USB charging and anti-theft lock. The dimensions of the bag are 12.9” x 6.2” x 4.3” Although it’s not specified I suspect the capacity is about 10 liters. Considering what I was able to put in my WEIXIER sling bag….I was impressed.
- Nylon lining
- Zipper closure
- DURABLE AND WATERPROOF – It’s made of high quality water-resistant and rip-resistant nylon.
Editor’s Top Picks and Final Thoughts:
Tomtoc 40L Navigator-T66 for unrivaled value!
I’m all for value so I must go with the Tomtoc 40L Backpack. For what this backpack can do and the price can’t be beat! If you’re on a tight budget but need a sturdy reliable backpack then the Tomtoc will come in clutch.
- Large Capacity & Organized: This Navigator-T66 carry-on backpack provides ample space for all your travel essentials. It features a large main compartment with a separate laptop compartment, and…
- Convenient Storage: You can reach the main compartment from the quick access front pocket for easy reach of your travel essentials on the go, and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a…
- TSA Friendly & Flight Approved: The laptop compartment is friendly designed to be opened 90°-180° for security scanning, helps get through airport security checkpoints quick and easy; And the…
Osprey – Sojourn Porter for overall quality and value!
There are certain things you just can’t sacrifice when choosing a backpack and that’s quality. Your goal is for a backpack to last a long time when you travel all over the world. For me, that backpack is the Osprey – Sojourn Porter backpack.
- Heavy-duty bluesign approved, recycled high tenacity and ballistic
- Comfortable AirScape backpanel with tuckaway harness and hipbelt
- Unique Straight Jacket compression provides extra padding and load control
- TSID luggage registration included with each piece
- 26L x 15W x 4H
Summary
To sum up, these are just a few examples of minimalist backpacks for just about any budget that can make your travels more comfortable and convenient. From my own personal experience, I prefer a 40 or a 45 liter backpack with a cross-body sling bag. With how I pack I find it so easy and convenient. I hope this list will help you in choosing the best travel backpack for you and your needs.
Remember a good backpack will last you years making all your trips and vacations that much better. Keep in mind you’re making an investment. The above backpacks are just part of a long list of great travel bags but you decide what will be best for your needs. In my opinion, choosing the absolute best travel backpack best suited for you is probably the most important step.
