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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

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This Is the Only Carry-On Bag I Use for Travel. Here’s Why

A backpack I picked up long ago on a whim has replaced nearly all of my travel luggage — and it’s still going strong.

By Sean Tirman

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

For a long time, I had a problem: I was a serial bag buyer . Enrolling in school? New backpack . Going to Iceland for my honeymoon? New adjustable duffel bag . Flying to my parents’ place for a long weekend? New carry-on luggage . It seemed like every time I took a trip, I bought a new bag. But I never found one that I wanted to keep using after just a trip or two. It’s not that they were bad, per se; it’s just that they didn’t really impress enough to stick.

Then, on one of my many bag-buying whims, I picked up the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack , and everything changed. Finally, I found a bag that I not only liked using the first few times, but I continued to use it for years. In fact, it became my go-to bag for pretty much all of my travels. It even encouraged me to pack smarter on longer trips so I wouldn’t need more than just this one bag. And all those other bags? I either gave them away, or they’re collecting dust in a closet somewhere. Here’s why Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Pack replaced all of my other luggage .

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Pack: What We Think

If you value speed, durability and (perhaps most importantly and significantly) versatility, this is a tough bag to beat. The internal compartments do away with the need for additional packing cubes and encourage organization. The weatherproof exterior makes this an ideal bag for ever-changing weather conditions. And its flexible soft construction and array of grab handles make putting it in overhead bins a simple and speedy prospect. If you’re a conscientious packer who values efficiency, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better travel backpack.

That said, it’s not perfect and certainly isn’t for everyone. The soft sides make it risky to store things too delicate (especially if there’s a chance your bag will need to be checked), and the lack of an easily accessed external stash pocket (for things like your wallet, keys, small travel must-haves, etc.) are fairly big drawbacks. Furthermore, it lacks any kind of wheels, so you’ll have to haul it on your back or in your hands through the airport .

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here .

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• $200.00 at cotopaxi.com
• Superb internal organization
• Weatherproof exterior
• Specifically designed for carry-on travel
• External top pocket is lacking
• Risk of contents being crushed in transit

Integrated storage encourages organization

Most backpacks, even those designed for travel , have little, if any, real organization beyond a few unstructured zippered pouches in which to shove your belongings — at least in my experience. This backpack is a refreshing divergence. Not only does it have several compartments — including a padded laptop sleeve , an externally-accessed top pocket and a spacious clamshell-opening main storage area — but it also has zippered meshes of several sizes inside that main compartment, essentially replacing the need for packing cubes.

Furthermore, it boasts two sets of compression straps in the larger compartments, meaning you can pack even more stuff into the same amount of space as you might with a hard-sided bag. Along with that, there are also three smaller zippered pouches (and some hidden space beneath them) perfect for socks, underwear, toiletries and the like. Even for longer trips (my longest was a full calendar week), I’ve never struggled to get the bulk of my apparel — including an extra pair of shoes — into this bag.

The rugged exterior is perfect for different climates

A few months ago, I traveled from San Diego up to Santa Rosa for a work trip, and I used the Allpa 35L Pack as my sole travel bag. At the time, San Diego was sunny and hot, and Santa Rosa looked slightly chilly at worst. However, when I arrived, the weather had taken a turn, and it was raining in Santa Rosa. Because I chose this bag with its waterproof exterior panel, my apparel stayed dry while I waited out in the rain for my rideshare.

Note: the entire bag is not waterproof, just the external panel. However, the bag also comes with an included rain cover that’s easily stored in the bag when not in use. While the rain wasn’t severe enough to necessitate it, it was nice knowing I had a backup plan.

Obviously, a hard-shelled carry-on would offer similar protection, but you’d also have to drag it over the wet, puddled ground, and it is more of a hassle when navigating unfamiliar, crowded places, like through airports to outdoor pickup areas. The point is, whether you check the weather or not, this bag is great for keeping your gear protected while traveling between climates.

It makes air travel easier and less frustrating

“Carry-on standards” be damned, there have been plenty of times when I’ve had a bag well within the size limits seemingly not want to fit under the seat in front of me or into an overhead bin at all. In fact, that very issue, especially on fully booked flights, has led me to have to check my carry-on bags in the past.

The Allpa 35L Pack, by contrast, is still within those size guidelines but is much easier to squeeze into tight spots because of its non-rigid construction. So long as you don’t stash delicate, breakable stuff in your carry-on, this bag is easy to squeeze into tight spots, including under the seat (as I discovered on a cross-country flight from San Diego to New York).

I wish it had a better external pouch

You know how most backpacks have that little external pocket on the lower front? This backpack doesn’t have one of those. While it makes the exterior look a lot sleeker, It does feel like a sacrifice not having that handy little stash pouch. I should clarify: there is a top-accessed pocket that serves a similar purpose, but it comes with a major drawback.

That top pocket takes up the same internal room as the rest of the internal compartments. This means, unlike those little stitched-on pouches found on the likes of JanSport bags, you need to make sure you leave enough space to utilize this pocket. Most of the time, it works fine, but the minute you’re pushing the bag’s capacity to the limit, you’ll see just how difficult it is to keep this pocket functional. For what it’s worth, I wouldn’t trade the bag’s looks for that extra pocket, though. Typically, I just use a crossbody bag in tandem (my “personal” item, which is arguably more convenient since I usually stash my bag in the overhead bins anyway), and I’m none the wiser about the omission.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack: Alternatives

If you’d really prefer a bag with wheels you can drag behind you instead of haul on your shoulders, it’s hard to beat our pick for the best carry-on bag you can buy: the aptly named Away Carry-On . For an upgrade with a lot more padding and structure (but perhaps not more storage space), you can trust the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . And if you’re looking for something a lot more compact (or to go alongside your Allpa, as I mentioned), our favorite crossbody bag is the Moment Fanny Sling 2L .

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I used this travel pack as my carry-on for an eight-day trip — it’s officially the best bag I’ve ever traveled with

At this point in my life, I pride myself on being somewhat of an experienced traveler. In the last six months alone, I’ve been to five different countries, so it’s safe to say I do it often enough to know a thing or two about flight prep. 

With airlines cracking down on personal items and prices soaring for checked bags, a solid carry-on travel pack that meets flight criteria is more important than ever before — and as a result, I’ve become extremely picky with my bag choices.

After plenty of baggage failures, I finally found a great one: The Cotopaxi 35L Travel Pack. I chose this pick as my carry-on for an eight-day trip to Guatemala after seeing it all over JFK Airport in New York City recently. I just had to give it a try.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Allpa 35L Travel Pack

What is the cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

When I first received this travel pack, my first thought was that it was the perfect hybrid between a suitcase and a backpack. The Allpa 35 opens up in a clamshell-style, like your typical suitcase, and has three total internal mesh compartments: one large compartment on the right side and one subdivided compartment (with three sections) on the left. It also has a padded laptop and tablet sleeve , with shortcut zippers to the main compartment for easy access while on the go.

As the name suggests, this travel pack has a 35L capacity, so it’s compatible with most carry-on airline standards . I flew on a budget airline for my trip to Guatemala, and I was worried I wouldn’t get to use the bag as a carry-on since it appeared rather large (I really packed this thing to the brim!), but I had no issues at all.

What I like about the product

It packs way more than you’d think.

According to the brand, this is “the ultimate adventure travel pack, ideal for three to five days away.” This is a claim I can confirm was slightly on the conservative side, considering I packed for a full eight days in this bag. While Guatemala has a warmer climate — hence why the clothing I packed really only consisted of smaller items like shorts and T-shirts — I did go on a major hike that required more gear, and I was able to still fit all my essentials in this bag.

That said, I think if I had traveled to a colder climate that necessitated larger, thicker clothing, I might not have been able to fit eight days worth of apparel — so keep that in mind while packing!

The minor details have a major impact

When it comes to this bag, trust me when I say it’s  all  in the details. It has anti-theft zippers, which gives me peace of mind while walking through crowded airports or train stations. It also has a top zippered pocket so you can easily access  essentials  like your wallet or passport while on the go.

For the adventurer, there are also carabiner loops for clipping on any extra gear you may need on your trip (i.e. hiking shoes, additional bags, etc.). But my favorite detail? The padded straps. I overpacked this bag when I traveled to Central America, and it was  heavy . The straps were thick and comfortable, and they didn’t dig into my shoulders no matter how much weight was in the bag. The removable hip straps also helped with support while carrying a heavier pack. 

What to consider

While I find it hard to come up with any downsides to this travel pack , some might find that its lack of external pockets is a bit inconvenient for those who like to keep most things super accessible. This bag also doesn’t have a designated water bottle sleeve, but I guess you could hook a water bottle to the carabiner loops if you really wanted to.

Ultimately, this bag seems to combine the comfort, accessibility and flexibility of a backpack with the spacious aspects of a suitcase. Whether you’re on a lengthy trip in Central America or a weekend getaway in Boston, this bag will have you covered — and I’ll be using it on every trip I have planned from here on out. In fact, I’m going to Iceland soon, and you can rest assured this bag will be coming with me. 

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Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack Review: A Close Look at This Popular 35L and 42L Carry-On Backpack

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is trendy carry-on travel backpack that claims to be “ready for any adventure—and look good while doing it.” Sounds good on paper, but does this pack have what it takes to stand up to real-world travel?

I was excited to get my hands on this backpack and run it through our tests. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L doesn’t have much in the way of fancy features, but what it does have just works. It earned a score of 8.2 on our rating system, which puts it in the top 25% of travel packs we’ve tested.

This bag stood out for durability, ease of use, and bang-for-your-buck. If you want the fanciest high-tech backpack out there, try something like the Peak Design Travel Backpack . But for a stylish, rugged carry-on that has great features, doesn’t overcomplicate things, and hits a reasonable price point, I think the Cotopaxi Allpa hits a sweet spot.

In this review, I’ll dive into the details of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, highlight the advantages and disadvantages, and help you decide whether it’s the right carry-on backpack for you.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Rating Overview

The Cotopaxi Allpa is a well-loved travel bag that comes in 35L and 42L versions. With an overall score of 8.6, it ranks in the top 25% of bags that we’ve ever tested.

• Materials 9
• Ease of Use 9
• Functionality 7
• Weighing in just under 3.5 pounds (1560 grams), the Allpa 35L pack is portable and manageable.
• The pack's carry-on size allows for easy airport travel.
• Zipper compartments on the inside allow for easy organization.
• Anti-theft webbing for zippers makes your bag more protected.
• Compression straps and padded hip belt make for a comfortable carry.
• The straps are part of a weight-distributing harness system aimed to spread the weight of your load evenly.
• A portion of Cotopaxi's yearly revenue is donated to the Cotopaxi Foundation.
• The Allpa 35L travel pack is neither waterproof nor weatherproof, requiring a cumbersome (but included) rain cover.
• The flexible, lightweight, material and lack of rigid structure makes the bag flimsy and it does not hold its shape unless full.
• Interior mesh compartments also do not hold their shape well and seem to rip or tear rather easily.
• There are no small exterior pockets for easy storage of frequently used or needed items.
• No water bottle holder means you are either carrying your drink or unzipping your pack every time you are thirsty (a snap-on bottle holder is available for purchase separately).

Why Trust TravelFreak?

Every member of the TravelFreak team is an avid traveler and adventurer. We have a soft spot in our hearts for a great backpack. Most of us have lived out of a backpack at one time or another, whether doing one-bag travel around the globe or long-distance thru-hiking.

Needless to say, we’ve had our hands on a fair number of packs over the years. In the past two decades, we’ve tested well over 100 travel, hiking, and everyday packs.

We know how hard it is to find  the perfect pack , and we want to make the process easier for you. Our team of travel experts, gear junkies and product engineers have developed the most comprehensive  backpack test methodology  we could envision.

We evaluated the Cotopaxi Allpa based on 39 metrics across nine different categories. Every pack we test gets the same treatment and is rated using the same standardized methodology. This makes it easy for us (and you) to compare the advantages and disadvantages of different products based on objective, data-backed insights.

To provide the most comprehensive review possible, we give you our personal, hands-on opinion coupled with an objective scoring system.

Cotopaxi Allpa Review: Quick Answers

• The 35L travel pack is the smallest pack in the  Allpa Line . It also comes in a new 42L version for longer trips.
• The backpack is carry-on sized, making it perfect for airline travel.
• Shoulder straps and padded hip belt tuck away for easy storage or transporting.
• The Allpa pack has two transport configurations: shoulder straps like a backpack, or reinforced handles like a suitcase.
• Cotopaxi is a company on a mission to make a positive global impact by alleviating poverty in certain parts of the world.

Who Is the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L For?

• Light Packers or Weekend Travelers:  This is a pack for the minimalist adventurers out there. While there is a decent amount of open space in the pack, your average traveler would be hard-pressed to fit more than a week’s worth of clothes and accessories in this travel backpack.
• Digital Nomads:  A padded laptop and tablet compartment make it easy for storing tech items safely and securely. A separate zipper makes this area accessible from the outside of the bag, a great feature when writing or researching on the go, and an interior sleeve protects your most precious electronics from being scratched.
• Versatility Seekers:  You can comfortably carry the Allpa like a suitcase through narrow airplane aisles, or wear it as a backpack while hiking. This pack is marketed as a backpack, but with its 3-sided zipper and stow-away straps, it’d be best described as a suitcase-hybrid.
• Weight Watchers:  When weight is important, this pack fits the bill. Whether it’s hiking or weekend trips, this pack won’t add much much mass to the load you have to haul.
• Style-Minded Travelers: The clean lines and bold colors of this bag are just two reasons why it made my list of the best carry-on backpacks .

Who  Isn’t  the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L For?

• Anyone Carrying Expensive Equipment:  Made from TPU-coated polyester and nylon, this pack is basically glorified fabric with no firm structure or internal supports. Expensive or bulky equipment is likely to get banged up in no time. Let’s just say that this is one bag I do not want to pack my nice camera in.
• Over-Packers:  This back is 35L and that means  only  35L. You can’t force a carry-on-sized bag to fit a checked-bag-sized haul. If you are a heavy packer or going on a longer trip, consider getting a larger travel pack. More than 2 pairs of shoes with your clothes? Choose a new bag! Other packs in the Cotopaxi Allpa line go up to 70L.
• Tall People:  I’m not very tall, myself, but other taller individuals have reported that the hip belt sits higher on the waist than your normal pack would, making it rather uncomfortable. If you are over 6’2, definitely heed this warning and go a different route.

Who Is Cotopaxi?

Entering the market in 2014, Cotopaxi is a fairly new brand, making everything from activewear and jackets to gear and accessories, providing a one-stop-shop for outdoor adventure needs.

Named after an active stratovolcano in Ecuador, Cotopaxi is a company focused on manufacturing a variety of outdoor products while they “Do Good.” Davis Smith, the company founder, states that his goal was to combine his desire to travel with his passion for aiding the world’s most impoverished areas.

The company aims for sustainable product designs and materials and operates ethical and fair-wage factories. The majority of Cotopaxi travel packs, like the Allpa backpack, are manufactured in a fair-wage facility in the Philippines.

The  Del Dia line of bags  are all designed and manufactured by workers in the Philippines using 100% left-over and reused fabrics and materials. Additional products, such as t-shirts, sweaters, and jackets are all created in factories found across multiple countries including India, Cambodia, Bolivia, and China.

Cotopaxi even donates 1% of its annual revenues to the  Cotopaxi Foundation , which awards grant money to nonprofit organizations and is ultimately aimed at helping underprivileged communities around the world.

While the money does not go directly to a charity or a community, the website does state that the mission of the foundation is to aid the impoverished and ensure the company can continue its sustainability and local/world improvement initiatives.

All of this sounds great until you realize that the amount donated to these nonprofits and companies ends up being a mere $55,000 of their estimated $5.5 million yearly revenue. But at least it’s a start, which is more than most other companies can say.

First Impressions

I was very impressed by the sturdy-feeling materials of this bag. The exterior is 800D polyester with a really thick TPU coating that gives it a rubbery feel. The zippers are also big, chunky YKK zippers, which gave me a lot of confidence that nothing was going to break anytime soon.

My biggest complaint at first glance was the lack of structure. This bag just feels a bit floppy, and when I didn’t have it fully packed, it just wasn’t very comfortable. I’d much rather have some more padding, a plastic framesheet, and more structure all around.

But with all that said, they still made a pretty great entry-level backpack that’s suited to all kinds of different adventures. Whether you’re backpacking Europe or taking a weekend trip to the mountains, this bag will do the job.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Features

Carry-on sized.

Cotopaxi made sure the 35L travel pack was sized perfectly for carry-on travel, meaning you can skip airport lines and baggage carousels.

This backpack is an internationally approved carry-on size, meaning that you can take this pack with you straight on and off the plane, anywhere in the world. No early arrival or baggage claim required.

Mesh Compartments

The interior of the  Allpa 35L travel pack  is all mesh, meaning you can easily see and find everything quickly. Five zippered mesh pockets give you places to organize and store all of your items, and the mesh is easier to wash and dry than alternative fabrics would be in case of internal spills or leaks.

However, these mesh sleeves don’t hold their shape very well which in turn allows your gear to shift or bounce around. Furthermore, the mesh is very prone to snagging or tearing. I’ll get into this more shortly.

Tuckable Straps

The slotted back panel on the Allpa 35L pack allows the shoulder and hip straps to be unclipped and completely tucked away beneath the panel, creating a sleek and smooth piece of luggage. This is ideal for dealing with bus and airplane overhead bins; you never have to worry about a strap snagging or catching on something!

Reinforced Handles

With four reinforced handles on the exterior of the pack, this bag is easy to carry even after stowing away the tuckable shoulder and hip straps. Carry it with two hands or like a one handled suitcase.

Laptop & Tablet Storage

One of the nicest features of the Allpa pack is the side-accessible laptop compartment. This fabric-split section can stow both a laptop and tablet, and it’s easy to access your electronics while passing through airport security or while on the go.

While no specific dimensions for the laptop and tablet section are reported, I can tell you a 15″ computer fits with room to spare—you could potentially even fit a 17″ laptop, but don’t quote me on that.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Full Review

While the exterior of the Cotopaxi backpack is made of TPU-coated polyester and ballistic nylon, there is no interior structural support (or back supports for heavy packs), essentially making this bag an unsupported clamshell.

The nylon is somewhat water-resistant but is definitely not waterproof. Fortunately, Cotopaxi provides a rain cover with all  35L Allpa bags .

The interior sections of the main compartment are all zippered mesh. This may be convenient for being able to see inside each compartment, but the zippers are close together and, if not handled with care, can catch on and tear the mesh easily.

The sturdiest part of the bag is the compression straps and hip belt. The shoulder straps are thick and fairly comfortable, while the waist belt is padded so it doesn’t dig into your hips.

The rear panel of the pack is made of air mesh to allow your back and shoulders to breath and more airflow to circulate. This ultimately increases comfort and reduces sweatiness—but it doesn’t get rid of it entirely.

The  Cotopaxi Allpa 35L  travel pack has a super sleek design. With no visible front zippers, this bag is quite attractive with clean exterior lines. Depending on the color, the material can appear shiny, making it look a little too cheap for my liking (and this is  not  a cheap bag), but certain colors hide this sheen fairly well.

The ability to hide the compression straps and carry the pack sideways as a suitcase is a nice touch that adds to the clean lines of the bag, and is also especially useful when squeezing through tight spaces like airplane aisles.

Overall, the Cotopaxi Allpa line definitely targets millennials with its clean lines and bold, simple colors.

Wide compression straps, a padded hip belt, and a sternum strap combine to give the Allpa pack a secure and comfortable fit. The sternum strap leaves a lot to be desired, but from my experience, this is common with a large portion of travel bags.

This pack isn’t the greatest at handling heavy loads. If you’re trying to over-stuff your bag and take it on a long trip, I can pretty much guarantee that you won’t be smiling for long.

I, personally, wouldn’t mind adding an extra pound or two if Cotopaxi decided to add an internal frame or something similar for more support. But for those focused on a lightweight bag and light packing, these straps are about as comfortable as it gets.

The air mesh fabric on the back panel of the pack makes it somewhat breathable, and you’ll have less sweat to deal with than some other competitors on the market (but trust me, sweat still exists).

I did find some taller individuals who mentioned that the padded hip belt on the Allpa sits too high on their waist. While hard for me to weigh in on (sorry, I’m only 5’5″), this is probably something people above average height should take into consideration.

Organization

With only six total compartments, the Allpa 35L travel pack is not the ideal tool for prime organization. The pack is comprised of two sections: a smaller compartment on the back, padded for your laptop computer or tablet, and the main compartment on the front.

The main compartment is separated into four zippered mesh pockets: two small, one medium and one large. There is one additional mesh pocket accessible from the top of the bag.

While this and two smaller interior mesh pockets are great for organization and small item organization, those three pockets are all you have for non-bulky items. There is definitely not enough room to store your wallet, earbuds, and all the other items you want within easy reach.

The single large section that occupies roughly half of the bag’s volume makes it difficult to stay organized, and all of your stuff shifts around during travel.

There is one additional tiny pocket on the padded hip belt, but that is useless for anything other than chapstick or a (singular) key. There are no water bottle holders or organizational clips (unless you want to purchase those separately). No hidden pockets to hide passports, money, or other valuables.

Essentially half of the bag is a giant, open, zippered mesh clamshell compartment, which might be ideal for shoes or large equipment, but not at all useful for further organization or even finding your items easily.

I am a big fan of the burly TPU-coated materials of the Cotopaxi Allpa. They have proven highly resistant to wear, and I have no concerns about seams ripping through. This bag feels tough.

My only durability concern is the interior mesh pockets. I like the mesh for visibility, but I worry that it could wear out over time. I haven’t had any issues so far though, so fingers crossed.

I really appreciate that Cotopaxi went with the largest size (#10) YKK coil zipper for the main zip on this bag. If the main zipper fails, a bag becomes pretty much useless, and this huge zipper gives me a lot of confidence. I’ve seen off-brand or smaller zippers break easily, but this particular zipper has held up well in all of our testing.

Accessories

The Allpa 35L travel pack might be too simple for its own good.

The only accessory this pack comes with is a rain cover. No detachable pockets, day packs, loops, or holders. Nothing extra. No frills or thrills. Just the rain cover, which is neon yellow.

I guess the plus side here is that your bag will be easy to recognize in a crowd.

Cotopaxi does offer a few additional extras on their website that are compatible with the Allpa 35L pack

• Shoe Bag:  This nylon shoe bag is an optional extra that allows you to keep your dirty shoes from touching the rest of your gear. However, this accessory seems a little strange for a smaller 35L bag, and I wonder if it’s at all necessary. If you’re packing this light, it’s unlikely you’re bringing extra shoes.
• Mesh Laundry Bag:  Again very self-explanatory, and again, seemingly unnecessary. I completely understand the allure of segregating your dirty laundry, but there are many more economic ways to do it.
• Snap-On Mesh Water Bottle Sleeve:  I don’t know what it is about mesh, but they seem to love it. To me, this is ripe for getting snagged or torn while traveling, especially since it’s on the exterior of the pack.

However, all of these items must be bought  as a bundle . In other words, you can’t buy the shoe bag separately, but you can buy it with the laundry bag and the water bottle sleeve.

There are different bundles, though. And, to be fair, they don’t cost much extra.

Safety & Security

The  safety and security of your belongings  is important, especially when traveling through crowded areas,  staying in hostels  and other shared spaced, or even when exploring unfamiliar cities and countries in general.

To be honest, Cotopaxi’s attempt to add security features to this bag is weak.

In order to discourage theft, the backpack has “theft-proof webbing” for its outside zippers. I find these straps to just be annoying and, quite frankly, more of a hassle to deal with than they are worth.

But some credit should be given for possibly thwarting a quick pickpocket attempt.

While I am annoyed at the lack of outside pockets, I will admit that the Allpa’s zipper-free front panel also discourages theft. Also, the lack of outer pockets means you won’t forget to leave anything unzipped for wandering hands!

While this bag is about average in price compared to other highly rated 35-40L  carry-on travel backpacks , I am ranking the Allpa 35L travel backpack lower than average based on the pricing of other bags in the Allpa line and the quality of the bag itself.

I don’t think this bag is worth the price tag. On top of that, the 35L travel pack is currently the second-highest priced travel backpack that Cotopaxi offers, only being exceeded by the Allpa 42L pack.

Both the 50L and 70L bags, which are very similar in design to the 35L one, are less expensive than the 35L travel pack.

Is this a good example of price gouging on their most popular bag?

The real mind-boggling price difference is in comparison to the nearly identical  35L Del Dia travel pack  which is $20 cheaper than the regular 35L pack! Sure, it’s not made of their ballistic nylon material, but when neither bag is waterproof, both look the same, and one is both environmentally friendly and cheaper, why not save the money (and the Earth)?

While no warranty is explicitly stated for any product, you can find a “Good Guarantee” Section listed on their website. The “Guarantee” states that you can contact the company to help resolve any issues you have or replace products, but it doesn’t say if there is a fee or what costs might be associated with that solution.

Overall, it looks like the company might do something, but it isn’t clear or explicitly stated what that something is. I’m also assuming this promise applies to all their products, but again, that is not unequivocally listed.

That said, Cotopaxi is brand I know, love and trust, so I feel certain their customer service would fix any issues you might encounter.

If you’re located in the United States, shipping is reasonably priced. In fact, if you aren’t in a rush and can wait two weeks, you are able to score free shipping.

In a pinch? There are four other shipping options between $10-$50 that can get your pack to you as soon as the next day!

International Buyers Beware!  While shipping prices aren’t listed until you add the item to your cart, a few quick trial addresses show very high shipping fees for non-American customers.

Shipping to Canada was over $80 and most of Europe was higher than that. Australia was one of the cheaper countries but still around $30-50, which was equivalent to the more costly shipping options available in the United States.

Unless your heart is set on this bag, I’d suggest international customers save themselves some money and invest in a different outdoor brand that doesn’t charge you 50% of the backpack price in shipping.

How We Review Backpacks: Rating Methodology

On top of hands-on testing and extensive online research, every backpack we test gets scored on nine categories with 39 metrics. This forms the basis of our proprietary Backpack Testing Methodology . It’s a rigorous rating system to objectively test, evaluate, score, and compare backpacks.

Within each category is a series of specific metrics and conditions we use to evaluate each bag as objectively as possible.

Here is a brief explanation of each of the nine categories.

• Build Quality:  A backpack is worthless if it falls apart after a few trips. We rate build quality by looking at six specific factors including the material, zippers, and stitch quality.
• Comfort:  While comfort is somewhat subjective, over our years of testing and reviewing backpacks, we found several common design elements between the backpacks that were the most comfortable for  all  our gear testers. We look at 8 factors including shoulder strap padding and shape, frame design, and adjustability.
• Ease of Use:  A good backpack should be simple, streamlined, and intuitive. We look for packs that offer easy access and packing and have smart features that eliminate annoyances.
• Functionality:  Our functionality rating combines subjective reviewing of how well the pack does what it says it does with objective measures of carrying capacity and laptop protection (if applicable). Does the bag carry everything we need it to? Does it keep the contents safe and protected?
• Water Resistance:  We’ve all been caught out in the rain on our travels, and having a water-resistant backpack gives us confidence that we won’t end up with a bag full of soaked clothes. We rate water-resistance based on materials, zippers, and seam treatments.
• Brand Impact:  It is important to us to support and recommend brands that have a positive impact on the world. Our brand impact rating takes into account environmental impact, sustainable design, social impact, and factory working conditions. To avoid greenwashing, we look for rigorous and widely respected industry certifications.
• Buying Experience:  Shopping for and buying a new backpack should be a rewarding and frustration-free experience. We value companies that implement specific policies to reduce the stress and risk of buying a product.
• Warranty:  It says a lot about a product when the brand is willing to back it up with a solid warranty. We look for products with lifetime warranties and talk to people who have gone through the warranty process.
• Price-to-Performance Ratio:  After we test and assign scores for the 8 categories above, we calculate a price-to-performance ratio by dividing the MSRP by the overall performance rating. This then affects the final rating. Lower price-to-performance ratios are better.

Metric Scores

Each category includes several specific metrics. For example, within the durability category, the individual metrics are zippers, materials, components, and reinforcements.

During our testing, we give every individual metric a score 0-10, with 0 being the worst and 10 being the best.

Some metric scores (like stitch quality) are assigned subjectively based on our experience and observations of the product. Whenever possible, individual metric scores are objective, and we assign them using a standardized scale.

Category Scores

Once we test and assign a 0-10 score for every individual metric, we use weighted averages to calculate a score for each entire category. Each metric within the category has a different value and contributes a different amount to the total score for that category.

Overall Score

Once we have a 0-10 score for each of the rating categories, we use another weighted average to calculate a combined total score. Products with high overall scores don’t necessarily excel in any one category, but they perform well  all around .

Cotopaxi Allpa FAQs

Can the cotopaxi allpa 35 be a carry-on.

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35 can be used as a carry-on for almost any flight in the world.

Are Cotopaxi backpacks good for hiking?

Cotopaxi makes decent hiking bags, but they are best for travel and everyday use.

Does the Cotopaxi backpack fit under airplane seat?

The Cotopaxi Allpa 28 is sized to fit under an airplane seat. Larger models will be too big.

Will a 35L backpack fit under an airplane seat?

A 35L backpack is too big to fit under most airplane seats.

Where is the Cotopaxi Allpa made?

The Cotopaxi Allpa is made in the Phillipines.

Jeremy Scott Foster

You’re comparing backups that fill two different uses.

I would absolutely never buy a Peak Design 45L backpack, because it’s twice the weight and I simply don’t need an extra 10L/30% more space! Unless you’re packing photography equipment, I really don’t see the need for that MONSTER!

Yeah, it has a lot more compartments and space. But so does an SUV, and since I don’t have a family of 4, I don’t need an SUV.

I’d say the majority of people don’t need anything that large which is why wirecutter picked the Allpa as their main choice. They listed the Peak, if you need to pack a FULL suitcase into your backpack, but I don’t want anything to do with that monster.

35L is plenty of space for 5 days of travel, do laundry… Boom a 10 day trip and it’s actually lightweight.

Yep, ultimately it comes down to what you want and need. I like the PD because it collapses down to 35L—the same size as the Allpa. And because it expands to 45L, if you do happen to need the extra space, you have it available. I’ve tested probably 100 bags now and wasn’t impressed with the Allpa, but plenty of other people love it. It’s a personal choice, in the end!

Wanted to share given my shared opinion of Cotopaxi. Never owned anything from Cotpoaxi previously. Fell for the exterior design. As well as their environmental message. Purchased the Chasqui sling for travel, hiking, and urban use. Light carry,it definitely meets this criteria. The storage lacks sub compartments within its main openings. No exterior water bottle compartment is noticeable when your 32oz sits inside the outer storage slot. Top access only for this area can make it less accessible.

First use, while traveling. My contents spilled out as I tried to reach for my water bottle in the largest, second slot. Why,this area fully unzips to the bottom of the sling. The zipper just opened the area from the weight.

Daisy chain feature, couldn’t use for ANYTHING I needed, eg.walking stick handle wouldn’t fit through.

For a 13L, the sling does not have a waist strap.

Shoulder strap is thick,and comfortable. No integrated mobile pocket. Oddly,the excess adjustable strap doesn’t have any management to tuck the excess material away.

Chasqui sling wasn’t durable. The exterior had signs of wear after less than 30 days of recreational use while traveling.

International customers beware as the(warranty) details aren’t clearly defined* Not only is shipping pricey as noted in the Travel Peak Allpa 35L pack review. The stated warranty doesn’t apply as written since they don’t have the infrastructure to cover (all)international customers.

It’s so funny how different people have totally different takes on things. I actually love the Allpa 35L for some of the very reasons listed as Cons in this review!

For me, the organization in both the Allpa 35L and 42L is literally the best I’ve found, and I wish more luggage makers would adopt it. I prefer lightweight backpack travel for the convenience and freedom, and I also like to SEE what I’m looking for like you can in a standard suitcase. It bugs me to have to constantly excavate backpacks to get to the things at the bottom, and I really hate it when bag makers add tons of almost-flat exterior pockets you have to fish around in blindly and that either bulge out or steal space from the interior of the bag. I feel the same about fiddly interior pockets that take up space and weight instead of letting me use my existing systems.

In this era of countless choices for organization cubes and pouches, so many travelers already have their preferred organization products and systems. I like that the Allpa let’s me get rid of stuff I don’t need anymore because of the inner mesh, but also provides see-through containment for the things I won’t do without: my perfect dopp kit, tech pouch, and must-have compression cube for undies, socks, and PJs. (Side note: I’m not a fan of the Peak Design 45 bag, but boy is their compression bag awesome despite the exorbitant cost! That thing is brilliant, and so much more elegant looking than the similarly high quality ones from Eagle Creek.)

To be able to have the suitcase-style functionality and visibility of the Allpa with a totally sleek exterior that slides easily into the overhead or under a seat and yet still have that huge exterior pocket at the top that’s so easy to see into is ideal for me. For security checks and general travel, I want easy access to my water bottle, toiletries bag, passport, wallet, hat, phone, charger, pen, etc., all of which can easily fit in that deep pocket and stay organized with the small and flat things in the mesh pocket and the bigger bulkier items easy to find and grab. It’s excellent. And the way they’ve protected that space from being encroached on from the inside with their placement of the interior mesh is genius to me. That protected cavity not only keeps the exterior pocket from being rendered useless, it also provides a great spot for hiding small valuables so prying hands can’t easily get to them. That’s the kind of security I prefer in my luggage since dedicated thieves scoff at locks (“Look! Valuables here!”), yet are sometimes deterred when finding the valuables takes too much time.

There seems to me to be a weird lack of DIY/can-do spirit when it comes to luggage, but I have no qualms about sewing a little O-ring into the top of that cavity to attach a small Tom Bihn pouch with my passport and a few valuables. I suppose people might be worried they’ll void a guarantee by customizing their own property (madness–it’s a travel bag, not a car!), but since Cotopaxi’s policy is to replace true manufacturing defects and otherwise help users REPAIR vs. throw away items damaged by normal wear and tear (part of their green ethos), I’m not worried about that. It’s my bag, why shouldn’t I customize it exactly how I want?

I also love that the exterior side zipper into the larger side of the Allpa means I can quickly reach in and grab things like my jacket or travel umbrella (which protects me AND the bag’s water resistant fabric in case of heavy downpours with no need for the included rain cover, though I do think it’s nice they include it since other bag companies charge 30 or 40 dollars for similar gear).

I prefer soft sided luggage with minimal structure and padding because it’s lighter and also more versatile for cramming into almost-full overhead bins and compressing down into carry on sizing boxes. I also don’t have a problem with smaller bags being too empty to look aesthetic. ; – ) Truly delicate items do require a little bit of forethought (and a padded case for things like cameras), but that’s true in any bag, and I’d rather carry only the padding I actually need than a lot of extra “just in case.”

I’ve packed cameras, and even expensive antique china with no problem in a bag with even less external structure than the Allpa, so the fact that the Allpa’s cushioned back and one whole side of the clamshell provide protection for anything in the central part of the bag makes it seem very safe to me.

As for size, why would I want a larger pack that’s just going to invite me to bring more than I need and is comfortable to carry? The Allpa 35L can already fit so much! (For example, the YouTube video of the scuba diver unpacking a week’s worth of clothes AND a full kit of scuba gear from her Allpa 35L, including heavy duty equipment and a wetsuit!)

I’ve literally never heard of anyone having problems with the mesh in the Allpa, including frequent travelers who’ve used the bag for years (and presumably the scuba diver ; – ), so I’m guessing the repeated concerns about it expressed in this review were based more on worry than reality. I had the same reaction when I first looked at the bag, but was glad to find my concerns were unfounded because for me the Allpa 35L is almost bag perfection.

No amount of packing cubes can replace the functionality of a suitcase-style backpack for me, especially with those see-through mesh compartments. And I would much prefer to pay a little extra for the materials and labor required to add such functional yet hard to sew material as mesh into a bag than spend that same money on yet more packing cubes I have to search through and unzip one by one to access my stuff.

I do wish they’d get rid of the obnoxiously huge Cotopaxi logo on the back between the shoulder straps, and I’m not a fan of having Allpa 35L notated on the front of the bag (or the llama head, frankly). But at least in the black version these are less noticeable, and the bag overall is still so worth it. If I could find a backpack that looked as simple and business-friendly as the Peak Design bag this review seems so obsessed with yet had the exterior pocket and interior organization brilliance of the Allpa (plus its comfortable straps, or the ones by Tom Bihn), that would be my ideal. But in the meantime, I’ll continue enjoying the Allpa’s sleek yet adventurous looking aesthetic, and most of all, it’s incredible functionality.

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I’ve Worn This Travel Backpack in More Than 50 Countries, and It’s Still Going Strong

This Cotopaxi carry-on even fits under most airplane seats.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Pamela Jew

My job as a travel writer has taken me to all seven continents in the last 10 months, and after all those miles, let me tell you: There are just certain things I can’t travel without. The true MVP? My Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack , which has carried me through more than 50 countries — from Costa Rica to South Africa — and which I don’t expect to retire any time soon.

I’m in good company with my love of this backpack. After lots of testing, Travel + Leisure editors recently named the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack the best overall on its list of 2023’s best carry-on backpacks . 

To buy: amazon.com and cotopaxi.com , $200 

Still, I first heard about this bag years ago from a writer friend of mine who’d just returned from an assignment in Georgia (the country, not the state). While he had a lot to say about the destination, what he really raved about was the bag he lived out of for two weeks. It was carry-on compatible, had a 35-liter capacity, was lightweight and waterproof, and opened up like a suitcase for easy packing (impressive!). Plus, it had a waist strap so it’s easy on the back and, to top it all off, a rare lifetime warranty. I knew I just had to try it — so I got one. Of course, one quickly turned into two. 

Travel + Leisure / Katie Jackson

I’m convinced this Cotopaxi bag is indestructible, because it’s made with high-quality, tear-resistant nylon fabric and a water-resistant TPU coating designed to withstand the relentless wear and tear of travel. And I know firsthand just how waterproof it can be. I was once carrying it in Costa Rica, during the rainy season, when I got caught in a downpour. Despite getting drenched, my bag’s contents stayed completely dry. And that was without using the rain cover it comes with! I’ve found this bag to be so waterproof that I don’t even bother bringing it. 

To buy: amazon.com and cotopaxi.com , $200 For a bag made with such durable materials, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is quite light. It weighs less than four pounds, and because it has a waist belt and padded shoulder straps, weight is evenly distributed across my hips and shoulders. In September, I wore it in Portugal, where I stocked it up with bottles of wine. Despite how heavy my bag got, I never had any back pain. Even if you don’t want to wear it as a backpack, you can simply tuck the straps in and carry it using the side handles (reinforced, of course). I usually do this when I’m in Thailand, where it’s so hot and humid I don’t want to have anything on my back. 

But by far, my favorite feature of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is the fact it opens like a suitcase. With traditional backpacks, I have to dig to the bottom of the bag to find what I’m looking for. But with this pack, I just unzip, open, and can see everything I packed. In addition to the large main compartment, there are so many internal pockets I almost don’t even need to use 2023’s best packing cubes . 

There are even more functional features too, including a padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet and security YKK zippers to deter pickpockets (which I appreciated when I was in Paris last year, where I have had stuff stolen before). Finally, there’s a convenient external pocket that comes in handy for things like sunglasses and water that I want easy access to.

For such a functional bag, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is also very aesthetically pleasing. My next trip is to South Africa’s newest five-star luxury retreat, Future Found Sanctuary in Cape Town , and instead of rolling up with Louis Vuitton luggage, I’m proud to sport this pack because it’s actually pretty stylish. Both of my bags are two of the most eye-catching colorways — Cotopaxi is famous for its bright colors — but this bag is also available in solid black if you don’t want to be bothered by strangers giving you compliments on it. That said, it’s so cool that they’ll probably still ask where you got it. 

To buy: amazon.com and cotopaxi.com , $200

At Cotopaxi.com , the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack starts at $200 and has an impressive 4.7-star average rating from more than 1,000 reviews. It also has a 4.7-star average rating at Amazon, where it starts at $198 and where shoppers call it the “best backpack for airline travel.” I’ve never had an issue getting it to fit in an overhead bin, including when I flew the discount airline Wizz Air this summer to Romania. It usually fits under the seat in front of me, too. 

One shopper who calls it a great carry-on loved using it during a flight when traveling with their two young sons. “They need lots of snacks and toys and changes of clothes and other things,” they wrote. “This bag was able to fit all of it at once. Best of all, it kept all of our things very organized.” Another shopper who raves about how spacious it is managed to fit two pairs of pants, nine tops, a dress, pajamas, a pair of shoes, a bathing suit, socks, underwear and more, and still had space left!

To buy: amazon.com , $198

Despite being able to carry pretty much everything but the kitchen sink, this pack is still surprisingly comfortable. And unlike other carry-ons, because you can wear it, you can easily carry it with ease over cobblestone streets. One shopper who spent a week traveling around London and Paris during transportation strikes ended up having to walk everywhere and says they “never could have taken this trip without this pack.” 

Even if your plans don’t involve walking a lot, you won’t be disappointed if you treat your back to the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack . This bag ensures you’ll arrive at your destination with all of the things you need, neatly organized. I’m not saying you should definitely buy two, like me, but I am saying it’s such a cool bag, I wouldn’t be surprised if it sells out. 

At the time of publishing, the price started at $198. 

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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on March 20, 2024 to add the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L — a supremely nice commuter-style travel pack, as well as the Thule Aion 40L and Osprey Archeon 30L .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
• Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
• Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
• Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
• Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 to 35 liters.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

• Capacity 33 L
• Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

• Cheap price
• Available in many different fabric prints
• Unique insulated cooler pocket
• Not many travel-specific features
• Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack ($75) is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. This design has a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe. There’s an organizer pocket that’s perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but they would have been nice for a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does the basics, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

• Capacity 40 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
• Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
• Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

• Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
• External compression straps limit the volume well
• Comfortably padded grab handles
• Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

• Capacity 45 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
• Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
• Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

• Excellent storage organization options
• High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
• No frame to speak of
• Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
• Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
• Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
• Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

• Multiple ways to carry the pack
• Many different storage and internal organization options
• Burly external fabric
• Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and compliments the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack. This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously. “It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

• Capacity 27.5 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
• Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

• Dang good looking
• High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
• Supper cushioned back panel
• Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
• Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions.  And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

• Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
• Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
• Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
• Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the pack. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

• Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
• Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
• Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
• Centered side handle carries well
• Well-cushioned back panel
• No shoulder strap stowage option
• No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”) the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more. 

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps. 

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

• Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
• High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
• Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
• Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
• Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

• Capacity 25 L
• Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
• Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
• Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

• Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
• White interior for easy viewing
• Floating laptop sleeve
• Not very much interior organization
• Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
• Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
• Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

• Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
• Plenty of organizational pockets
• Bright interior
• Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

• Capacity 28 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
• Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

• Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
• Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
• On the heavier side
• TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
• Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
• Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

• Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
• Built to last design and materials
• Removable webbing hip belt
• Suspension doesn’t pack away
• Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check and Arc’teryx Granville packs (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

• Capacity 32 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
• Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
• Material 420-denier recycled nylon

• TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
• Many options for organization
• Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
• Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like it’s all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend-Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30 liter range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 liters, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snuggly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become one of our dedicated laptop toters for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which at 24 liters compressed easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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Carry-on Backpack - A 35L Travel Backpack

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Our bag is a 3-in-1 travel backpack, suitcase, and shoulder bag. Equipped with hideaway backpack straps, a full perimeter zip, hip-belt, and a dedicated laptop sleeve. This backpack is a great companion to give you confidence on any journey.

Designed with an expandable capacity of 35 – 45L. The luggage and laptop compartments are lockable. With a durable and sleek water-resistant exterior, brand name components by YKK & SBS, this is the ultimate travel backpack to keep you moving. 

Walkthrough video

(because you're going places!)

3-in-1 Design

Convertible to suit you - wear it like a suitcase, shoulder bag or backpack

Carry-on sized

Save time and money by avoiding checked bag fees

Hide-away straps

Tuck away the backpack straps  into the back panel to maintain a sleek look

Ergonomic and comfortable

6-points of adjustability + padded back ventilation keeps you comfortable and cool. 

Detachable hipbelt provides stability and load distribution - your choice to use it or not

Dedicated laptop pocket

Breeze through security with your laptop accessible through a separate zip Neoprene laptop sleeve (included) provides ample protection and is detachable for the plane ride

Full-perimeter zip

Makes packing and staying organized easy - works just like luggage

Compression straps keep your stuff secure 

Roll-aboard strap

Easy integration with rolling luggage

Water bottle pocket

Stay hydrated on-the-go

Pocket is collapsible to keep you within size limits and looking sleek when not used

Lockable zips

Prevent unwanted access and keep your valuables safe

Lockable main pocket & laptop pocket

Add 10L capacity when you need it - Just a bit more space for souvenirs :) 

Smart organization

Thoughtfully designed pockets keep your stuff organized and within reach

Safety whistle

Discreet and built into the sternum buckle gives you assurance in sketchy situations

Included because you never know when it's going to pour

Two colors included

Two colors included and interchangeable

Size & Capacity

• Bag dimensions: 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 in zipped and 21.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 expanded
• Volume:  35L zipped and 45L when expanded
• Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Laptop pocket: Fits 15.6 in laptops and 15 in MacBook Pro
• Tablet pocket: Fits 10 in tablets
• Main pocket: Holds 5-7 outfits

Construction

• 1680 denier high tenacity ballistic nylon
• Water resistant, durable, and easy to clean
• YKK brand buckles & zips & buckles
• ITW Nexus sternum strap
• Lifetime Warranty and Satisfaction Guarantee

How We Ship

• We are pleased to offer Free Shipping to USA and Canada on all items within our online store. Customers outside of USA & CANADA some charges apply. Learn more...

Praise by Experts

      I’ve never been so excited about a piece of luggage before, that’s for sure! It's created by people that travel a lot and I can’t think of any feature they haven’t included! The Travel Tester

      The Carry-on is perfect for me and for all the travelers that want cabin luggage that matches with their style, looking nice without being too flashy or too sporty. Love and Road

      Wow, they really thought of everything. Plenty of pockets, dedicated areas for a laptop and a tablet and locking YKK zippers for the main and laptop compartments. One Bag, One World

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Pakt Travel Backpack V2 (35L) Review

The Pakt Travel Backpack V2 (35L) has a very organized layout but is not overly compartmentalized to the point of sacrificing spaciousness and ease of packing.

Our Verdict

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• Spacious and easy to pack despite relatively compartmentalized layout
• Laptop sleeve better protected between the rest of your gear
• Simple yet secure water bottle pocket
• Shoulder straps’s width makes them feel tight
• Compartmentalized layout takes some getting used to
• Twin side handles can feel off-balance if only using one

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 113/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

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Weight (lb)

4.1 lb (1.9 kg)

21.5 in x 12.5 in x 8 in (54.6 x 31.8 x 20.3 cm)

Notable Materials

Recycled Nylon, Paracord, PFC-free DWR Coating, YKK Zippers, Duraflex Hardware

Manufacturing Country

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

Pakt Policy

Full Review

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Based on our experience with many travel backpacks, subdividing the main compartment runs the risk of sacrificing spaciousness. Think about it: you can no longer pack bulky gear as you please since compartmentalization dictates what goes where. On one hand, this is a very organized way to pack that doesn’t require you to freestyle or strategize. On the other hand, this limits flexibility, not only in gear size but also in accessibility.

Pakt’s Travel Backpack V2 (35L) seems unfazed by such limitations despite its very compartmentalized layout. Both internal bucket spaces feel large enough to store packing cubes. Meanwhile, the clamshell opening is complimented by two quick-access zippered openings, helping solve any accessibility woes. So what’s the catch? The harness system, specifically its very wide shoulder straps, which really impact long-term comfort.

External Components

The colorway we’re testing is called Ocean, and it’s a fitting name. Pakt notes that the rNylon they’re using (recycled nylon) is recyclable indefinitely, which should mean less waste ending up in the oceans somewhere along the way. It’s a 500-denier fabric that feels fittingly robust for the Travel Backpack V2’s size (at least for the 35-liter version we’re sampling). The structure it provides isn’t at the same level as ballistic nylon fabrics with heavier denier counts, but it’s not flimsy either.

On that note, we are sampling a pre-production unit, so some imperfections are to be expected. Most notable of which are a few loose threads in the pockets. These should not be an issue in the retail version. However, we’d be remiss not to point them out..

The fabric and the colorway themselves really help clean up the bag’s aesthetic. Maybe it’s the calming blueness, but the visual clutter of the many zippers and straps gets muted. Of course, there’s more than one way to slice a pizza; in this case, you can opt for the Black colorway for a completely stealthy style. Alternatively, there’s also Forest, though it’s a bit too dark and gray for those itching for an olive colorway.

Topping off the rest of the Travel Backpack V2’s materials are zippers from YKK and hardware from Duraflex. Both brands are well-regarded for the reliable components they make, so we weren’t too worried about their performance. We’re not ones to take reputation at face value, so we’re happy to report that neither the zippers nor the many clips, buckles, and adjusters broke or jammed in any significant way.

No self-respecting travel backpack should be without a few grab handles, and Pakt surely doesn’t disappoint here. There’s one at the top, one at the bottom, and a pair on the right side. We like having two on one side for a more balanced carry. However, these particular ones are too low-profile and can feel a bit cumbersome to use together if you have small hands. On the bright side, all of the handles are decently padded, making them relatively comfortable to pull the bag in and out of tight spaces.

While the top handle is too centered (read: recessed), Pakt was considerate enough to put a loop between the shoulder straps so you can easily hang the bag. Yep, it’s a similar one you’d typically find on most backpacks, which usually acts as the main handle. Here, though, it’s mostly for hanging the bag behind restroom stalls. Airport restroom floors can be sketchy at times, after all.

Compression straps are another typical feature of travel backpacks, and this one has four, with two on each side. What we dig about Pakt’s implementation is how easy they are to stow away. They’re not completely removable (they’re stitched on one end), but they have clips on the other side. Simply unhook these clips, and you can stow each strap into respective slip pockets.

Why would you want to stow the compression straps? Mainly because they go over the main compartment’s opening, plus that minimizes the amount of dangling straps. In case you’re wondering, none of the compression straps have elastic keepers or any of the sort.

On the right side is a raised water bottle pocket. Pakt keeps the design simple—mostly. It’s a fabric pocket with gussets on both sides. Grip comes courtesy of built-in elastics and a small bungee loop that you can use to secure your bottle’s neck. That said, we don’t find bungee necessary since the pocket is fairly deep, and even slender bottles fit snuggly. We also tried inserting a 33-ounce bottle, and it also fits well.

The Travel Backpack V2’s harness system has all the ingredients we usually look for. The first ones to catch our attention are the load lifters. These are very easy to adjust without being so loose that they lose their adjustment while you wear them.

The shoulder straps are reassuringly thick, befitting the bag’s travel backpack designation. That said, the padding itself feels too stiff for our liking, and that has implications in terms of comfort, which we’ll go into more detail in the next section. To Pakt’s credit, the shoulder straps’ top ends connect to the bag via thin sections. These allow the straps to move more freely than if the padded section directly joined the back panel. We’ve seen this implemented on a few daypacks, but it makes a ton more sense for travel backpacks like these that usually have thick straps. However, even this neat little feature introduces a caveat, namely, it makes the straps flip around while you shove your arms through. It happened to us too often, so it merits a mention.

Along the shoulder straps are loops, one on each. You can use these to hang accessories like key organizers or cute souvenir keychains (yes, we do this too) or keep the load lifter adjustment strap in check. More important, though, is the sternum strap. It’s not the sliding type, which we find ideal due to the fine granular adjustments you can make with it. Instead, it’s the hook-on-loops kind. To be fair, it gets the job done, but those who get very particular with their fit may find this less than optimal.

Another feature the Pakt Travel Backpack V2 shares with other travel backpacks is stowable shoulder straps. The bottom ends detach via clips, so you can slip them behind the back panel as needed. This prevents them from snagging on other people’s luggage and gear when you store the bag in a shared overhead bin. Thankfully, the clips Pakt’s using here are fairly easy to work with, and we generally didn’t have trouble re-attaching them on the go.

The back panel is simply ribbed, with a fair amount of segmentation that should contour well with users’ backs. Features-wise, you get a luggage pass-through poking sideways across the back panel. One neat detail is the embedded magnets that help keep the pass-through shut when you’re not using it.

Lastly, there’s also a waist strap. It’s nothing substantial like a hip belt, so don’t expect it to offload any kind of weight from the shoulder straps. This is really more for stability as it helps keep the bag’s lower half centered and close to you. It’s also completely detachable via gatekeeper clips if you don’t need it.

For the most part, the Travel Backpack V2’s harness system does a good job in terms of comfort and the actual support of the bag. However, the shoulder straps’ width really stuck out to us. Even the large framed among the Pack Hacker crew could feel the straps dig near and around the neck and “overflow” beyond the shoulders. The pictures really don’t do it much justice since the straps look fairly normal in size, but trust us, they feel relatively huge.

As you can expect, that feeling is shared by those with smaller frames here at HQ. You may be wondering if the shoulder straps’ flexible joints help. They spread them apart easily, but not enough to completely eliminate the tight sensation. Again, the padding itself is also on the firm side, adding to the issue, so while it’s reasonably comfortable to wear for short periods, it can feel fatiguing on longer ones. Think walking to a hilltop hotel or running around trying to catch trains, that sort of thing.

If that’s the case, why say that the harness system “does a good job”? That’s because we can tell it has effective individual components. The load lifters and sternum straps, for example, shift a lot of the weight up to prevent sagging. The back panel is also cushiony enough to rest against. Even the waist strap shifts some of the weight, in addition to keeping the bag close and center. In other words, it’s just the shoulder straps’ size that bothers us, to the detriment of other parts.

Inside The Backpack

Underneath the back panel’s bottom section is a hidden compartment. Pakt calls this a TSA pocket, and the idea is to put all the items on your person in here when you go through security. It’s a more convenient alternative to putting all of it in another bin. No more of that awkward “pocket-it-like-you-stole-it” moment after your gear goes through the scanner; this is more civilized than that.

It’s a fairly clever system, too. Part of the back panel folds up to reveal the TSA pocket, itself folded away neatly. Just like the luggage pass-through, magnets hold the back panel in place to keep the TSA pocket hidden when it’s not in use. The fabric is a semi-see-through fine mesh to make life easier for the TSA officers. There’s enough space inside the pocket for most everyday carry accessories, though nothing too bulky like a high-capacity power bank.

The Travel Backpack V2 has two front pockets, and we like how Pakt splits its approaches here. The bottom pocket is just an empty dump area for any gear you can fit inside. It doesn’t look particularly impressive, but the simplest features are usually the ones we take for granted. Put another way, you can use a dump pocket like this for quickly storing most gear like a packable jacket, a high-capacity power bank, or a half-eaten sandwich from a food cart you suddenly can’t finish because it started raining; you get the idea. For a more nuanced organization, let’s defer to the pocket upstairs.

The top pocket has a much wider horseshoe-style opening and, more importantly, smaller pockets inside. On the left is a zippered mesh pocket where we keep AirPods, and on the right is a passport-sized pocket. The latter also has a hidden slot for an AirTag in case you want to use one. Behind all of that is a slip pocket wide enough for a tablet, topped by a key leash and a horizontal pen slot, which is too wide for most of the travel pens we usually travel with. Though the previous bottom pocket has a ton of space, we still use this top one to store a toiletry bag, mostly because it’s much easier to reach in most cases.

The Travel Backpack V2 has a lot of compartments, so we’ll start with the front-most one. Yes, it’s a compartment, but by default, it’s compressed by an outer zipper. What is it? It’s a compartment mainly used to store Pakt’s Everyday 15L Backpack, though you can also use it for other gear like a laptop sleeve. You might think the outer zipper is a compression system, but you can’t really close the zipper once it’s packed out. All of that said, this effectively adds around two inches of depth, affecting how the bag carries.

This leaves us with three remaining zippers, which all lead to the main compartment—technically. Pakt’s setup here is quite different from what we’re used to seeing on more typical travel backpacks. Yes, the main compartment still opens like a clamshell through that middle zipper, but they also give you two extra openings. Why? Because both halves of that clamshell are effectively sub-compartments.

A large mesh compartment covers the front half. It’s mostly flat, so you’re ideally not going to pack hastily bundled-up layers here. In our case, we use it to store smaller pieces of clothing like beanies, gloves, and underwear. Unzip the whole mesh bag, and you’ll find a huge bucket space underneath. This is the real packing space, or at least half of it. Packing cubes fit with no problem, as demonstrated by our setup, which includes a medium-sized Peak Design packing cube flanked by a smaller one and a sweater. Note that there are two vertical daisy chains here, which you can use to attach pouches. Doing so will prevent your pouch from sinking to the bottom, making it easier to access it from the front-most quick-access opening we’ve mentioned earlier.

The rear half of the main compartment is similar to the one earlier. The key distinguishing feature here is instead of a mesh bag, you get a laptop sleeve. It features relatively thick padding, which feels similar to memory foam. Additionally, the entire sleeve is centrally located, sandwiched between all of your gear, so there’s a ton of protection there. It’s also elevated over two inches off the base of the bag.

Behind the laptop sleeve is another bucket space where you can fit a similar packing cube setup to the one mentioned above. In general, both bucket spaces have so much space that our initial apprehension about trading space for compartmentalization is completely dispelled. You can have clothing in one bucket space and a jacket, shoes, and a sizable tech pouch in the other. Note that this is “only” the 35-liter version and the 45-liter version will be even more spacious if you still want more.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

• Zippered divider feels like a sleeping pad (in a good way)
• Lots of compartments for gear organization
• Material feels durable and soft
• Material still in great shape, though it picks up pet hair and lint very easily
• Shoulder straps are wide and stiff, which impacts carry comfort
• Organization is great for those who aren’t a huge fan of packing cubes/pouches

Get your questions about the Pakt Travel Backpack V2 (35L) answered from our team and the Pro Community right here on the page. Plus, join discussions with other members about gear, guides, and more.

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Best duffel bags for any excursion: Find the right bag for you

Your arsenal of luggage has most of the requisites: the clunky suitcase, the over-the-shoulder computer bag and even that old backpack from college you still use to this day. But what about a reliable duffel bag? You can’t lug your hard shell suitcase on your overnight casino resort trip, and that book bag is too small to function as a weekender. You need a proper duffel bag pronto! Read on for our picks for the best duffel bags out there.

What to consider when buying a duffel bag

Functionality.

How well your bag functions is the top priority when hunting for a quality travel duffel. "Packing cubes are a game changer for suitcases, as they keep all of your belongings organized and packed tightly inside," says co-CEO Audrey Kohout of shipping company Luggage Forward . "When a duffel bag has anything similar, it always makes me happy. A laptop sleeve, water bottle holder, or even a divider inside the main pocket to separate dirty and clean clothes can make a huge difference."

Another aspect of a duffel bag’s functionality that's often overlooked, says Kohout, is the number of straps. "Having lots of straps might feel like it offers versatility, but it can actually make travel more of a headache. Too many straps, handles and loops can just create more opportunities for it to snag on something, or get tangled with your neighbors’ luggage in the overhead compartment."

Durability of materials

Obviously, everyone wants a duffel bag made from sturdy materials — no one wants their bag to bust. "But different levels of durability are required if you’re taking your duffel on a Disney Cruise versus a multi-week camping trip," says Gemma Gaisano Ng, co-founder of luggage company No Reception Club .

"A good rule of thumb is to opt for nylon or polyester when you’re expecting your bag to work hard on your trip — it might be thrown around, put on the ground a lot, in various types of weather, stuffed to the brim, etc.,” Ng continues. “Alternatively, opt for all-over canvas or leather when you think you’ll be more careful with your bag for things like work travel, or trips where you expect your bag will mostly be placed on clean surfaces."

It’s paramount for your duffel bag to function optimally and be durable enough to withstand some dings here and there, but we can’t ignore the desire to also look good on our adventures. "Choose a bag that you'll be proud to carry," says Zon D'Amour, founder of Designed By D'Amour , a vegan duffel bag producer. "In my experience, people typically order bags from my company that they can customize for a personal connection, which includes embroidering their name, initials, or even their birthday. Many customers also appreciate being able to choose their favorite colors, oftentimes the colors of their alma mater, their sorority or fraternity. Choose a bag that's in alignment with your personal style."

Our picks for best duffel bags

Best weekend duffel bag: longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag

If you want to pack all of your belongings in a duffel bag for a weekend trip, you’ll need plenty of space to fit your clothes, shoes and accessories. The Longchamp Le Pliage bag is expandable so it offers plenty of room when you need it, but it can also be made smaller for use as an everyday or overnight bag. This means that once you’ve unpacked, you can take it exploring for the day.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 13.8 inches high x 9.1 inches wide x 17.7 inches long.
• Weight: 1.57 pounds.
• Materials: Recycled polyamide canvas.
• Number of colors: Five.
• Price on publish: $275.

What we like:

• Adjustable strap up to 19.7 inches.
• Expandable for extra space.
• Exterior zipper pocket.

What we don’t like:

• Nothing — this bag works perfectly for any weekend getaway.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

A sturdy and reasonably-priced duffel bag with an exterior zipper pocket, a padded shoulder strap and carry handles.

Get it here: Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag

Best lightweight duffel bag: Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L

Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L

This bag is made from repurposed nylon and so lightweight you might forget it’s there. It has a huge zipper and one main pocket so you can see everything inside, making it quick and easy to grab what you need. Cotopaxi is known for their fun colors and craftsmanship, so this is also the perfect bag for a bold person who wants to make a statement!

• Dimensions: 19 inches long x 11 inches high x 11 inches wide.
• Weight: 2 pounds.
• Materials: Polyester.
• Number of colors: Colors vary.
• Price on publish: $115.
• Unique, eye-catching design.
• External zippered stash pocket.
• Removable backpack straps and shoulder sling.
• Doesn’t include a water bottle pocket.

A lightweight, durable and vibrantly-colored duffel that stands out in the crowd and on airport baggage carousels.

Get it here: Cotopaxi Chumpi 35L

Best budget duffel bag: Eddie Bauer Stowaway 45L

Eddie Bauer Stowaway 45L Duffel

This affordable tote provides top-tier features like a shoe compartment, trolley sleeve and water-resistant construction at a competitive price. It even packs into itself, making it one of the more travel-friendly options on the market. You’d be hard-pressed to find better at this price range, especially from a legacy brand like Eddie Bauer.

• Dimensions: 23 inches long x 11.75 inches high x 11.75 inches wide.
• Weight: 0.85 pounds.
• Number of colors: Eight.
• Price on publish: $27.50.
• Packs down to 9.5 x 9 inches.
• Water repellent.
• Exterior zippered shoe pocket.
• Only one interior compartment.

A practical bang-for-your-buck duffle that can keep all your stuff dry.

Get it here: Eddie Bauer Stowaway 45L

Best duffel bag for commuting: Béis The Commuter

Béis The Commuter

Béis understood the assignment when they designed this sleek and sophisticated gem. More unique than your average travel duffel bag, this design is professional enough to carry into the office but handy enough for commuting thanks to an internal laptop sleeve, external pockets to keep that train pass handy and a trolley pass-through for suitcase compatibility on business trips.

• Dimensions: 21.5 inches long x 12 inches high x 9 inches wide.
• Weight: 3.15 pounds.
• Materials: Nylon, polyester.
• Number of colors: Two.
• Price on publish: $138.
• Multiple exterior pockets.
• Vegan leather details.
• Padded laptop pocket with velcro closure.
• Not many colors to choose from.

A sleek and water-resistant duffel bag with multiple features and compartments that will keep you well organized.

Get it here: Béis The Commuter

Best compact duffel bag: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

This duffel bag can double as a small gym bag thanks to its plethora of interior pockets and integrated laptop sleeve. "As someone who has taken more than 60 flights on one airline alone in a single year, I know the impact a good travel bag can have," says Kohout. "I’ve tried dozens of different kinds of luggage over the years for trips including cruises, backpacking adventures, business travel, ski weekends and beyond, and the Landon Carryall is the one that I continue to grab for."

• Dimensions: 12 inches long x 7.5 inches high x 6 inches wide.
• Weight: 1.7 pounds.
• Materials: Neoprene.
• Number of colors: 11.
• Price on publish: $150.
• Adjustable crossbody strap.
• Detachable key leash and zip-top pouch.
• Roomy interior with mesh pockets and tablet sleeve.
• Nothing — thousands of customers agree, too, since the bag’s reviews are virtually all five stars!

A practical and versatile bag that can transition smoothly from daily commute to the gym and weekend wandering.

Get it here: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Best gym duffel bag: Lululemon Wunderlust Weekender

Lululemon Wunderlust Weekender Bag 48L

Lululemon knows workout gear, and this handsome on-the-go bag is a fan favorite for a reason. It features standalone compartments for shoes and sweaty gear, combined with an external strap for a jacket or yoga mat, making it convenient for any exercise setting.

• Dimensions: 21.7 inches long x 13 inches high x 10.6 inches wide.
• Weight: Not listed.
• Materials: Not listed.
• Number of colors: One.
• Price on publish: $198.
• Sporty design.
• Exterior pockets keep water bottle and sweaty gear separate.
• Some customers remark that the shoulder strap is weak and uncomfortable.

A sporty and nicely-designed bag that’s functional, but has a somewhat hefty price for its limited features.

Get it here: Lululemon Wunderlust Weekender

Best waterproof duffel bag: Yeti Panga 50L

Yeti Panga 50L

This waterproof duffel bag is the definition of rugged. It can handle all types of weather and terrain thanks to its durable nylon and EVA copolymer construction, making it the perfect outdoor adventure buddy. It’s also puncture-proof, making it the ideal option for keeping your belongings together in the roughest conditions.

• Dimensions: 24.8 inches long x 10 inches high x 14 inches wide.
• Weight: 5.2 pounds.
• Materials: Nylon and EVA copolymer.
• Number of colors: Three.
• Price on publish: $300.
• Waterproof at one meter depths for up to 30 minutes.
• Puncture-resistant.

A waterproof fortress for all your hiking, camping and fishing gear, built tough enough for the great outdoors.

Get it here: Yeti Panga 50L

Best carry-on duffel bag: Patagonia Black Hole 55L

Patagonia Black Hole 55L

This duffel bag maximizes your available space while remaining flight- and travel-friendly. "Personally, I love this bag for its backpack straps," says Kohout. These straps give you an added carrying style that’s great for on the go, but lay flat when you’re not using them. The bag is also small enough to meet carry-on requirements and has one big pocket to hold plenty of clothes for a long weekend.

• Dimensions: 22.8 inches long x 13.3 inches high x 9.5 inches wide.
• Weight: 2.6 pounds.
• Materials: Polyester, nylon.
• Price on publish: $169.
• Meets airline carry-on requirements.
• Sturdy, reinforced exterior.
• Haul handle and backpack carry options.
• Not many interior pockets for carry-on items.

A well-built duffel bag suitable as a carry-on, if you don’t mind a shortage of interior pockets for organization.

Get it here: Patagonia Black Hole 55L

Best overnight duffel bag: Topo Design Mountain Gear

Topo Design Mountain Gear

Don’t let the name mislead you: This bag isn’t just for the mountain. It’s the perfect day trip or overnight bag, in fact, thanks to its huge main pocket that can fit anything from a few outfit options to helmets and even snow boots (yes, it’s that big). It also has plenty of compact pockets around the outside that can hold smaller gear like chargers, keys, or water bottles.

• Dimensions: 20 inches long x 14 inches high x 10.5 inches wide.
• Materials: Nylon, vinyl.
• Number of colors: Four.
• Price on publish: $149.
• Easy-carry grab handles.
• Large main compartment with mesh pockets.
• A little oversized for some purposes.

A large and functional bag that you can easily toss all your overnight essentials into and grab and go.

Get it here: Topo Design Mountain Gear

Best duffel bag with wheels: Ogio Terminal Travel Bag

Ogio Terminal Travel Bag

"A rolling duffel bag should be robust enough to withstand being wheeled over rugged surfaces as well as carried, and should be easy to maneuver whichever way you need to," says Giacomo Piva , cofounder of global luggage network Radical Storage . "The Ogio Terminal bag provides a lot of room, making it a good choice for road trips or outdoor adventures. It also has plenty of compartments to fit enough clothing, shoes and toiletries for longer trips."

• Dimensions: 13 inches long x 29 inches high x 13 inches wide.
• Weight: 10.6 pounds.
• Materials: Nylon.
• Price on publish: $239.99.
• Wide range of colors.
• Multiple grab handles.
• Two large external pockets.

A heavy duty duffel bag that’s on the girthy side, but with wheels and a rugged chassis that neither concrete or cobblestone can stop.

Get it here: Ogio Terminal Travel Bag

How we selected the best duffel bags

We enlisted four top experts in the travel and luggage industry for their professional insight on choosing the best duffel bags. We also conducted extensive research into the expert’s choices and screened several customer reviews for those picks.

What is the difference between a duffel bag and a travel bag?

“As the name suggests, travel bags are specifically designed with on-the-go travel in mind,” Kohout states. “They’re usually a bit smaller, easier to carry around, and often have features to make your airport experience simpler. Duffel bags can be a great piece of luggage for travel, too, but they’re intended to be more versatile for other activities in addition to travel.”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are duffel bags suitable for air travel?

Of course! And, according to D’Amour, duffel bags are a smart choice as carry-ons. “We've all heard of, or may have experienced, flights being delayed for various reasons,” she says. “So I typically keep a day's worth of ‘emergency’ clothes and toiletries in my duffel bag, as well as my computer, a book, snacks, etc.”

Can I use a duffel bag as my primary luggage for extended trips?

“You can absolutely use a duffel as your main bag for longer trips, especially those with multiple compartments,” says Kohout. “As long as you can fit all your belongings into the duffel of your choosing, there’s no reason why it can’t serve as your go-to luggage. Many brands even offer the same duffel in several different sizes, so you can choose what best suits your needs.”

Why are duffel bags better than suitcases?

Actually, one isn’t better or worse than the other. “It really boils down to what you’re using it for, what you’re packing, and how long you’re packing for,” says Kohout. “A lot of people love duffel bags because they offer more structure with separate sections for things. They also have convenient zipper pouches for smaller items, and can be easy to carry for those who can’t stand wheeling a suitcase around.”

How do you pack a duffel bag?

Duffel bags can be packed in various ways, according to the travel occasion. “As a fashion designer who's also an entertainment journalist, I often take my duffel bags to press junkets and get ready on site,” D’Amour states. “So, I'll typically put my toiletry bag on top, laptop in the middle, clothes at the bottom, shoes on the side. Packing a duffel is like a puzzle: You want to maximize space and evenly distribute the weight.”

Solo female travel anywhere and everywhere.

A three day Kyiv itinerary

A post from Sebastiaan about his favorite city: Kyiv. This three-day Kyiv itinerary leads you through highlights of Kyiv AND off the beaten track places. A great introduction to capital, and the perfect Kyiv itinerary.

As of 24/02/2022 Russia has invaded Ukraine. Ukraine’s airspace is closed and there is open armed conflict. We don’t recommend anyone to visit right now.

Kyiv, sometimes called Kiev, is the capital of Ukraine and its largest city. It’s also one of my favorite cities!

After having lived in Kyiv for about seven months—spread out over three visits—I dare say I know the city pretty well. I think everyone who visits Ukraine should stay in Kyiv for at least three days, ideally more.

To make the most of your three-ish days in Kyiv, here’s a three-day Kyiv itinerary to ensure you see the best side of my favorite city.

Itinerary: three days in Kyiv

This three-day Kyiv itinerary combines some of Kyiv’s most famous sights with less common attractions. It includes a decent amount of walking, so make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes!

This itinerary does not include a visit to Chernobyl, which is best visited from Kyiv. If interested in visiting Chernobyl, I suggest you add another day or two to your stay in Kyiv.

Note that it’s always possible to cut out an activity or two depending on time and your interests. This itinerary is a guideline, not an end-all plan.

If this is your first visit to Ukraine, make sure to read my guide on everything you need to know before going to Ukraine !

Places to sleep in Kyiv

Headed to Kyiv and looking for a cheap place to sleep? Check out my article on the best hostels in Kyiv for travelers .

There are also plenty of Airbnb’s in Kyiv, and prices start around $20 per night (depending on the season and on how long you’re staying).

If you want to stay in Podil, the most charming area of Kyiv, check out this lovely place . It’s right on Andriyivskyy Descent, which is the most popular tourist street in Kyiv, full of souvenir stalls and close to the historical heart of Kyiv.

There are plenty of international and local luxury hotels in Kyiv. It is the capital, after all. Head over to Booking.com to pick the one that’s right for you.

Pretty, pretty Podil

Day one: metros, monasteries, and monuments

A visit to the deepest metro station in the world, a cave monastery, a monument to Ukraine’s contribution to the Second World War, and one of my favorite walks in the city.

I suggest breakfasting close to your hotel at any place that looks nice. Don’t worry, recommendations for lunch and dinner are coming! Once ready to start your first day in Kyiv, head over to Arsenalna Metro Station on the Red Line.

Arsenalna Metro Station

Arsenalna Metro Station is the deepest metro station in the world, at 105.5 meters/346 feet deep. It takes two escalators and about five minutes to reach the exit of Arsenalna. The name “Arsenalna” derives from the Arsenal factory across from the station’s entrance.

The factory’s front facade, which you can see when standing in front of the metro station, is riddled with bullet holes from WWII. Parts of the factory host an art gallery, Mystetsky Arsenalna, which is worth a detour if there’s an interesting exhibition or if the weather isn’t working for you.

From Arsenalna, continue to walk to one of Kyiv’s most famous monasteries: the cave monastery Kyiv Pechersk Lavra.

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

The walk from Arsenalna Metro Station to Kyiv Pechersk Lavra is roughly 20 minutes. When exiting the metro station, face the Arsenal Factory and go left. It’s also possible to take bus 38 or 470 , which stop around 5 minutes away from the monastery.

Tip: I recommend walking, as there’s a nice park along the way with great views and several museums and monuments. This includes the Holodomor Genocide Museum , dedicated to Ukrainian famine that was deemed a genocide by several countries.

The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra is one of Kyiv’s most famous monasteries—still active to this day—and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s an important pilgrimage site for many Orthodox Christians, and buzzes with worshippers and tourists at all times of day.

Open to visitors from 09:00 to 18:00, the monastery is divided into two parts. The top part is run by the National Kyiv-Pechersk Historic-Cultural Preserve. The lower part, including caves with buried monks, is run by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate). The top is ticketed, but the lower part is free. Tickets are 50 hrn per person.

The Motherland Monument

The Motherland Monument is about a 20-minute walk from the monastery. If you’re hungry, there are several small food stalls around… but I suggest you wait until later. There are better places to lunch!

The large monument stands atop the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War . It’s a very Soviet affair, with displays of Soviet battle tanks and marble plaques depicting Soviet heroes.

You can climb the observation deck for 300 hrn , and there are several museums on-site ranging from 5 to 30 hrn per person.

Lunch on your first day in Kyiv

After all this I’m sure you’re hungry. Head to the newly opened Kyiv Food Market , next to the Arsenal building. It contains several food stalls and a bar, so there’s sure to be something to your liking.

After lunch, it’s time to walk through one of my favorite parts of Kyiv.

Walk from Mariinsky Park to Podil

This walk can take one to two hours and is best done in the afternoon when the sun is a bit lower. The entrance to Mariinsky Park is 5 minutes to the right of Arsenalna Metro Station when facing the Arsenal Factory.

Mariinsky Park is around 130 years old, and houses several historic monuments. One is Mariinsky Palace : closed to the public, but beautiful nonetheless. It’s next to the Verkhovna Rada (parliament) of Ukraine.

Mariinsky Palace

Beyond Mariinsky Palace, stay right along the park until you pass the old Dynamo Kyiv stadium . There are several cool buildings and statues, so feel free to make detours. Try to stay to the right though, otherwise you’ll exit the park on the wrong side.

Beyond Mariinsky Park is the Friendship of Nations Arch . It’s supposed to symbolize the friendship between Ukraine and Russia; since this friendship has been strained a crack appeared in the arch. There’s a nice viewpoint here, and the spot is popular with locals and tourists alike.

From the arch, continue on the recently built bridge toward Volodymyrska Hill . Go right after the bridge, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the viewpoint-lined way.

The path ultimately leads to Artist Alley and the Church of Saint Andrew . From here, follow Andriivksy Descent into the historic Podil district.

Art for sale

Andriivsky Descent and the historic district of Podil

Walk down Andriivksy Descent while checking out the many street stalls. By all means buy something, but haggle hard—prices are inflated for tourists. Don’t hesitate to sit and have a drink at one of the many bars in the area.

If interested, check out the small Mykhailo Bulgakov Museum or Museum of One Street , both along the Descent.

Andriivsky Descent leads to historic Podil . Here you can wander, get some dinner, and have a drink before heading back home for some well-deserved rest… or heading out to one of Kyiv’s bumping nightclubs!

Podil’s main metro stop is Kontraktova Ploscha on the Blue Line. You can also Uber back.

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Best cafes for dinner in Podil

Some of my favorite cafes in Kyiv are in Podil. I recommend:

• Budget: Puzata Hata. Cheap and straightforward, this cafeteria is always a good option.
• Mid-range: Hum:Hum. Delicious hummus and other vegan food. One of my favorite places in Kyiv.
• Mid-range+: Kanapa . Famous Ukrainian restaurant, reservations necessary.

The National Opera and Ballet Theater

Day 2 in Kyiv: freaky art and fancy facades

A healthy helping of architecture, a trip to one of Kyiv’s best parks, and a reveal of my favorite ice cream places in the city.

Taras Shevchenko National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Ukraine

To start the day off, head over to Teatralna Metro Station. Walk uphill from the metro exit for a quick glance at the National Opera of Ukraine, named after Taras Shevchenko.

Operating since, 1901, the opera house is a beautiful building. Note the two winged women above the entrance, symbolizing the mythical patron spirits who support artists in their ventures.

Interested in going to the opera? Check out this website for tickets and details.

After you’ve had a good look at the opera, breakfast at Kharms , a charming cafe with delicious breakfast and lunch options. It’s in a small courtyard just up the road from the opera house, past the UkrSibbank.

Once done feeding, head to The Golden Gate of Kyiv.

The Golden Gate of Kyiv

The Golden Gate of Kyiv , Zoloti Vorota, was the main gate of Kyiv’s fortifications back when it was the capital of the Kyivan’ Rus. The original gate dates back to the 11th century, but what you see now was built in 1982 and may or may not resemble the original gate.

There is a museum inside—entrance 50 hrn —and a monument to Yaroslav the Wise, the Grand Prince of Kyiv in the early 11th century.

From the Golden Gate, walk into Yaroslaviv Val Street toward the Park Landscape Alley , one of my favorite parks in Kyiv.

Along the way, you’ll find several historical buildings, cafes, and art galleries. Some of the buildings include the House of Baron Steingel and House of Actor .  If you feel like some coffee, head over to Honey or Paul . If in a museum mood, check out Suzir’ya or The Sixties Museum .

Ice cream, anyone?

Park Landscape Alley

A great ice cream parlor, amazing views of Kyiv, cool art and murals, and the Tithe Church—can you tell why this park is my favorite?

There are several entrances, but I recommend the one marked by a mural of a Cossack Eagle slaughtering a hand dragon (if someone could explain to me what this means, I’d be much obliged). From there, stroll through and enjoy the bizarre artwork and benches. Make sure to stop at AVERCAMP Val de Val for some ice cream. Thank me later.

At this point, it’s probably time for lunch. You can walk down Andriivsky Descent and eat at any place that strikes your fancy. Don’t walk too far down though, as our next destination is in the other direction: Saint Michael’s Golden-Dome Monastery.

Saint Michael’s Golden-Dome Monastery

Another famous monastery in Kyiv, this Ukrainian Baroque monastery includes a cathedral, bell tower, several gates, and the Refectory of Saint John the Divine. It’s also the headquarters of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine.

The still active monastery is stunning inside and out. It played an important role during the Euromaidan protest, offering food and shelter for protestors as well as a base of operations for volunteers.

The original monastery was founded in in the early 12th century. What you see now is 18th century, except for the cathedral which was destroyed by the Soviets then rebuilt in 1999. Outside the monastery is a mural dedicated to the war in Eastern Ukraine.

After visiting the monastery, move toward Saint Sophia’s Cathedral , which you’ll spot from the monastery exit.

Saint Sophia’s Cathedral

One of Kyiv’s most famous landmarks—and a UNESCO World Heritage site —this cathedral’s interior might be the most incredible in the city. Many of the original mosaics are early 11th century, and the golden baroque domes are 18th century. Make sure to climb the bell tower for a view of the grounds!

The cathedral, named after Hagia Sophia of Istanbul, housed the first school and library in Kyivan’ Rus. Entrance to the cathedral grounds only is 20 UAH per person . A regular ticket to enter the cathedral and bell tower is 100 UAH. When exiting the cathedral grounds, don’t miss the statue of Cossack hero Bohdan Khmelnytsky .

To finish the day off right, walk over to Maidan Nezalezhnosti  (10 minutes).

Khreshchatyk in autumn

Maidan Nezalezhnosti and Khreshchatyk Street

Maidan , also known as Independence Square, is the main square of Kyiv and the main area where the 2014 Euromaidan held place. Khreshchatyk Street is lined with Soviet-era government buildings.

Make sure to check out the Maidan photo exhibition to learn more about the 2014 revolution. If you have time and energy left, walk around the back of Hotel Ukraina to enjoy some beautiful—and weird—architecture. Highlights include the National Bank of Ukraine and the House of Chimeras , but there are several other beautiful buildings in this area.

For dinner, I recommend returning to Maidan for The Last Barricade ( Ostannya Barykada ) . This hidden bunker restaurant does amazing Ukrainian cuisine. To find it, go underground at the end of Maidan near the McDonald’s then and look for the sign. The password is Boritesy E Poboryte. Try to make a reservation if with a group.

Dinner restaurants on Khreshchatyk Street

• Budget: Billy Naliv – Hot dogs, oysters and cider for 29 UAH per pop.
• Mid-range: Musafir – Crimean Tartar and Middle Eastern food

If you feel like an after dinner drink, hit up some of the best bars in Kyiv: Barman Dictat , Parovoz SpeakEasy , or Alchemist Bar . If these don’t seem like your style, check out my list with some of the coolest bars in Kyiv for inspiration.

Besarabsky Market

Day 3 in Kyiv: roam free!

After two days of walking and sightseeing, day three in Kyiv will be a bit more relaxed. No set walking routes today, just suggestions based on interests.

All good days begin with a good breakfast. I recommend Blue Cup Coffeeshop, close to several museums on pretty Pushinska Street . Another breakfast option is All True East , close to Lva Tolstoho Square.

Art and architecture in Kyiv

If you’re into art and/or architecture, this section is for you. These museums will take up the better part of your day, especially if you stop in one of the many cool cafes in Kyiv along the way.

Tip: Make sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit—many aren’t open on a daily basis.

Pinchuk Art Centre

• Address: Baseina Street, 1, 3-2
• Opening times: Tuesday – Sunday 12:00-21:00
• Entrance fee: Free

Thought-provoking exhibitions and regular Ukrainian artists make Pinchuk Art Centre my go-to for art in Kyiv. It’s large enough for you to get lost in, but not overwhelmingly big.

On the 6th floor of the same building is One Love Coffee , one of my favorite cafes in Kyiv .

Next to Pinchuk is Bessarabsky Market. Pleasant for a quick look, but if you want to buy something bargain hard—the vendors can smell a foreigner from a mile away.

National Museum of Natural Sciences of Ukraine

• Address: Bohdan Khmelnitsky Street, 15
• Opening times: Wednesday – Sunday 10:00 – 17:00
• Entrance fee: Adults 60 hrn, children 35 hrn

The National Museum of Natural Sciences of Ukraine can easily take hours. It has eight halls showcasing with geological, paleontological, zoological, and botanical themes. Unfortunately, not everything is accompanied by English explanations.

Museum of One Street

• Address: Andriivsky Decent, 2B
• Opening times: Daily 12:00 – 18:00
• Entrance fee: 50 hrn, 200 hrn for English audio tour

Although there’s few English explanations in the Museum of One Street (unless you pay for the audio tour), this museum gives an interesting glimpse into the history of one of Kyiv’s most famous streets.

The Bohdan and Varvara Khanenko National Museum of Arts

• Address: Vulytsya Tereshchenkivsʹka, 15
• Opening times:  Wednesday – Sunday 10:30 – 17:30
• Entrance fee: 30 hrn

Housed in a stately building across from Tarasa Shevchenko Park, the Bohdan and Varvara Khanenko National Museum of Arts has the largest collection of foreign art in Ukraine, mostly focusing on Western and Oriental art. The 6th – 7th century Byzantine icons alone are worth a visit.

The history museum

Museum of the History of Kyiv

• Address: Bohdana Khmelnytskoho Street, 7
• Opening times: Monday 11:00 – 16:00, Tuesday – Sunday 11:00 0 16:00
• Entrance fee: Adult 45 hrn, child 30 hrn

Want to learn more about Kyiv’s history? Visit the Museum of History of Kyiv. Though small, it gives a decent introduction to the complex history of this city.

It’s part of a larger collective of museums dedicated to Kyiv’s history, so if interested check out some of the other listed museums.

Murals in Kyiv

If you want to see art but museums aren’t your cup of tea, seek out some of the murals found all over Kyiv.

A beach day in Kyiv

You probably already noticed, but Kyiv has several beaches. The Dnipro river is clean enough to swim, and the beaches are quite pleasant on a hot day. The two most conveniently located beaches in Kyiv are…

Trukhaniv Island

Trukhaniv Island is one of the most popular beaches in Kyiv, for good reason. It’s easy to reach, has amenities, a large park, and is big enough to not feel too crowded.

To get to Trukhaniv Island, take the Blue Line metro to Poshtova Ploscha , or go to Saint Michael’s Golden-Dome Monastery and take the funicular from there. The funicular exit is next to the metro exit.

From there, cross the road to go down to the water, then go right and cross the walking  bridge . If you’re up to it, you can go rope jumping there!

There are several small places for a bite and a drink on the island, and bicycles are available for rent. For food, you can also return to the other side of the river and go to one of the bars and restaurants at the Kyiv River Port. In the summer you can smoke hookah from the comfort of beanbags there.

Kyiv River Port

Hidropark is fun regardless of whether or not you want to go to the beach. The park houses a large outdoor gym , with equipment made from salvaged debris like destroyed tanks! The gym is run by volunteers, and using the equipment is free.

Hidropark Gym

Hidropark also has a large beach with several places for a bite to eat and multiple beach volleyball courts. The main beach can get crowded, but there are secluded spots if you keep looking.

If you’re not feeling beachy, the nearby park is perfectly green and pleasant—bring some wine, food, and go for a picnic. To reach the park, take the Red Line metro to Hidropark Station .

Dinner on your last night in Kyiv

Planning a special dinner for your last night in Kyiv? Check out this restaurant guide from The Wayfarer’s Book.

Petrivka book market

Alternative things to do in Kyiv

There are so many things to do in Kyiv; this itinerary barely scratches the surface! Here are some more places to add to your itinerary.

Soviet Architecture in Kyiv

Expo center of ukraine.

The Expo Center of Ukraine, or VDNG, was opened in 1958 and houses many Soviet pavilions. It’s on the outskirts of a big forest, and quite a pleasant place to walk around in. There are often events around the grounds; check the website before going.

Take the Blue Line metro to VDNG to reach the center.

Kyiv Crematorium

One of the weirdest Soviet structures in Kyiv, this crematorium is in a graveyard. Though uncomfortable, you can’t get more Soviet than this—the building is so ugly it’s almost beautiful.

To get there, take the Blue Line metro to Palats Ukraina then walk for 30 minutes.

The Institute of Information

This Soviet building is lovingly known as “the flying saucer.” You’ll see why the moment you lay eyes on it!

To get here, take the Blue Line metro to Lybidska.

Feeling especially Soviet? Here are several other Soviet structures of interest around Kyiv.

Parks in Kyiv

Taras shevchenko park.

A small park across from the beautiful Taras Shevchenko National University. There’s often a small market on Sundays, and buskers at all times of day. Popular with elderly men playing chess and people picnicking.

A.V. Fomin Botanical Garden

The old botanical garden can be reached from the Universytet metro station, or from the backside of Taras Shevchenko University. Entrance is free, and it’s a pleasant place to walk around or have a picnic.

Other interesting things to do in Kyiv

• Petrivka Market: This large book market is interesting even if you can’t read Ukrainian or Russian! Booksellers are friendly and the small bookstalls are photogenic. It’s next to Poichaina Metro Station on the Blue Line.
• Saint Pokrovsky Monastery: A bit out of the way, but its interior is gorgeous. The grounds are pleasant, and the monastery is differently styled from its more famous counterparts in the city center.
• Kyiv Polytechnic Institute: A friend referred to the Kyiv Polytechnic Institute as “Ukrainian Hogwarts”, and she wasn’t lying. The building is gorgeous and there’s a nice park to walk around near the university. Befriend any of the students here, and you might be able to go inside the university. There are also several Soviet murals in the residential area near the university. To reach, take the Red Line metro to Politekhnichnyi Instytut.

Things to know about travel in Kyiv

Clubs in kyiv.

I’m not much of a clubber, and haven’t given any recommendations on going clubbing in Kyiv. However, if you’re trying to dance the night away…

• Closer: The most famous club in Kyiv houses several dancefloors, a courtyard, a record shop, and more.
• Caribbean Club: One of the oldest nightclubs in Kyiv is still going strong, with parties almost every day of the week.
• Skybar: This place has amazing views and is popular with well-heeled locals… which is reflected in the prices.
• Hangover: Super popular but a pain to get into, as the bouncers still think full Soviet face control is necessary. Normal humans, try at your own risk.

Staying connected in Kyiv

Mobiles: SIM cards are always a good idea. Calling and data are cheap, and phones are useful regardless of how short your trip to Kyiv is. Check out my article on things to know before going to Ukraine for more about getting SIM cards.

WiFI: Almost every cafe in Kyiv has high-speed WiFi.

Kyivstar SIM card

Transport in Kyiv

Kyiv has a good public transport system. The metro is the easiest way to get around, and most places listed here are within walking distance of a metro stop.

Besides the metro, there are buses, trams, and local trains to travel around Kyiv. If you don’t like to use public transport you can use the taxi apps Uber, Uklon, or Bolt.

A tram in Kyiv

Safety in Kyiv

Kyiv is a safe city. In my four months here, I haven’t faced any problems. Being a big metropolis, there is always a chance of something happening; keep your wits about you, and you’re unlikely to face trouble. Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, notably in the metro during rush hours.

Money in Kyiv

You can pay almost anywhere with a card, but it helps to have some cash on you just in case. Most ATMs accept international cards, but some come with quirks. Check out my article on things to know before traveling to Ukraine for more information.

And so concludes this Kyiv itinerary. Have a blast in Kyiv! Give a shout in the comments if there’s anything else you want to know.

Yay transparency! There are affiliate links in this post. If you book something using one of the links, the blog will make a bit of change at no extra cost to you . Think of it as a way of saying thanks for the free information.

Alex Reynolds

5 thoughts on “ a three day kyiv itinerary ”.

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Ukraine's farm minister is the latest corruption suspect as Kyiv aims to undo recent Russian gains

Russia ukraine war.

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A Ukrainian court on Friday ordered the detention of the country’s farm minister in the latest high-profile corruption investigation, while Kyiv security officials were assessing how they can recover battlefield momentum in the war against Russia .

Ukraine’s High Anti-Corruption Court ruled that Agriculture Minister Oleksandr Solskyi should be held in custody for 60 days. However, he was released after paying 75 million hryvnias ($1.77 million) in bail, a statement said.

Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau suspects Solskyi headed an organized crime group that between 2017 and 2021 unlawfully obtained land worth 291 million hryvnias ($6.85 million) and attempted to obtain other land worth 190 million hryvnias ($4.47 million).

Ukraine is trying to root out corruption and a dragnet over the past two years has seen Ukraine’s defense minister, top prosecutor, intelligence chief and other senior officials lose their jobs. That has been embarrassing as Ukraine receives tens of billions of dollars in foreign aid to help fight Russia’s army, and the European Union and NATO have demanded widespread anti-graft measures before Kyiv can realize its ambition of joining the blocs .

In Kyiv, patients were evacuated from a children’s hospital on Friday after a video circulated online saying Russia planned to attack it.

Parents lugged bags of clothes, toys and food while carrying toddlers and leading children out of Kyiv City Children’s Hospital No. 1, on the city's outskirts. Medics helped them into a fleet of waiting ambulances to be transported to other facilities.

In the video, a security official from Russian ally Belarus alleges that military personnel were based in the hospital. Kyiv city authorities said that was "a lie and provocation.”

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said civic authorities were awaiting a security assessment before deciding when it was safe to go back to the hospital.

“We cannot risk the lives of our children,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks Friday with the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, the key international organization coordinating the delivery of weapons and other aid to Ukraine.

Zelenskyy said he'd told members of the so-called Ramstein group that Ukraine needed long-range weapons, air defense weapons and artillery ammunition to reverse Russian gains on the battlefield. The Kremlin’s forces have gained an edge over Kyiv’s army in recent months as Ukraine grappled with a shortage of ammunition and troops.

“The one-to-ten ratio of our country's artillery to the Russian army inspires Putin to fight on,” Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram." Our soldiers need artillery."

Russia, despite sustaining high losses, has been taking control of small settlements as part of its effort to drive deeper into eastern Ukraine after capturing the city of Avdiivka in February, the U.K. defense ministry said Friday.

It’s been slow going for the Kremlin’s troops in eastern Ukraine and is likely to stay that way, according to the Institute for the Study of War in Washington.

However, the key hilltop town of Chasiv Yar is vulnerable to Russian onslaught, including glide bombs. The powerful Soviet-era weapons, originally unguided, have been retrofitted with a navigational targeting system to obliterate targets.

“Russian forces do pose a credible threat of seizing Chasiv Yar, although they may not be able to do so rapidly,” the Washington-based think tank said late Thursday.

It added that Russian commanders are likely seeking to advance as much as possible before the arrival in the coming weeks and months of new U.S. military aid , which was held up for six months by political differences in Congress.

While help from the United States was not forthcoming, Ukraine’s European partners did not pick up the slack, according to Germany’s Kiel Institute for the World Economy, which tracks Ukraine support.

“The European aid in recent months is nowhere near enough to fill the gap left by the lack of U.S. assistance, particularly in the area of ammunition and artillery shells,” it said in a report Thursday.

Ukraine is making a broad effort to take back the initiative in the war after more than two years of fighting. It plans to manufacture more of its own weapons in the future, and is clamping down on young people avoiding conscription , though it will take time to process and train any new recruits.

Associated Press writer Jill Lawless in Kyiv, Ukraine, contributed to this report.

Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

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Ukraine’s farm minister is the latest corruption suspect as Kyiv aims to undo recent Russian gains

A ukrainian court has ordered the detention of the country’s farm minister in the latest high-profile corruption investigation.

KYIV — A Ukrainian court on Friday ordered the detention of the country’s farm minister in the latest high-profile corruption investigation, while Kyiv security officials were assessing how they can recover battlefield momentum in the war against Russia.

Ukraine’s High Anti-Corruption Court ruled that Agriculture Minister Oleksandr Solskyi should be held in custody for 60 days. However, he was released after paying 75 million hryvnias ($1.77 million) in bail, a statement said.

Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau suspects Solskyi headed an organized crime group that between 2017 and 2021 unlawfully obtained land worth 291 million hryvnias ($6.85 million) and attempted to obtain other land worth 190 million hryvnias ($4.47 million).

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Ukraine is trying to root out corruption and a dragnet over the past two years has seen Ukraine’s defense minister, top prosecutor, intelligence chief, and other senior officials lose their jobs. That has been embarrassing as Ukraine receives tens of billions of dollars in foreign aid to help fight Russia’s army, and the European Union and NATO have demanded widespread anti-graft measures before Kyiv can realize its ambition of joining the blocs.

On Friday, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the US will provide Ukraine additional Patriot missiles for its air defense systems as part of a massive $6 billion additional aid package.

The missiles will be used to replenish previously supplied Patriot systems. The package also includes more munitions for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems, or NASAMS, and additional gear to integrate Western air defense launchers, missiles, and radars into Ukraine’s existing weaponry, much of which still dates back to the Soviet era.

Meanwhile, in Kyiv, patients were evacuated from a children’s hospital on Friday after a video circulated online saying Russia planned to attack it.

Parents lugged bags of clothes, toys, and food while carrying toddlers and leading children out of Kyiv City Children’s Hospital No. 1, on the city’s outskirts. Medics helped them into a fleet of waiting ambulances to be transported to other facilities.

In the video, a security official from Russian ally Belarus alleges that military personnel were based in the hospital. Kyiv city authorities said that was "a lie and provocation.”

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said civic authorities were awaiting a security assessment before deciding when it was safe to go back to the hospital.

“We cannot risk the lives of our children,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks Friday with the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, the key international organization coordinating the delivery of weapons and other aid to Ukraine.

Zelensky said he’d told members of the so-called Ramstein group that Ukraine needed long-range weapons, air defense weapons, and artillery ammunition to reverse Russian gains on the battlefield. The Kremlin’s forces have gained an edge over Kyiv’s army in recent months as Ukraine grappled with a shortage of ammunition and troops.

“The one-to-ten ratio of our country’s artillery to the Russian army inspires Putin to fight on,” Zelensky wrote on Telegram.” Our soldiers need artillery.”

Russia, despite sustaining high losses, has been taking control of small settlements as part of its effort to drive deeper into eastern Ukraine after capturing the city of Avdiivka in February, the UK defense ministry said Friday.

It’s been slow going for the Kremlin’s troops in eastern Ukraine and is likely to stay that way, according to the Institute for the Study of War in Washington.

However, the key hilltop town of Chasiv Yar is vulnerable to Russian onslaught, including glide bombs. The powerful Soviet-era weapons, originally unguided, have been retrofitted with a navigational targeting system to obliterate targets.

“Russian forces do pose a credible threat of seizing Chasiv Yar, although they may not be able to do so rapidly,” the Washington-based think tank said late Thursday.

It added that Russian commanders are likely seeking to advance as much as possible before the arrival in the coming weeks and months of new US military aid, which was held up for six months by political differences in Congress.

While help from the United States was not forthcoming, Ukraine’s European partners did not pick up the slack, according to Germany’s Kiel Institute for the World Economy, which tracks Ukraine support.

“The European aid in recent months is nowhere near enough to fill the gap left by the lack of US assistance, particularly in the area of ammunition and artillery shells,” it said in a report Thursday.

Ukraine is making a broad effort to take back the initiative in the war after more than two years of fighting. It plans to manufacture more of its own weapons in the future, and is clamping down on young people avoiding conscription, though it will take time to process and train any new recruits.