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Home » Gear » What is The Best Backpack For Travel in Europe? EPIC Round Up (2024)

What is The Best Backpack For Travel in Europe? EPIC Round Up (2024)

Europe is a great destination for a burgeoning backpacker. Most European countries are accustomed to accommodating broke backpackers carrying their lives on their shoulders, and the continent sports some of the world’s best public transport networks, allowing travelers to roam freely without needing a car.

There are so many great stops and sights to see on any Eurotrip, but you won’t make it very far without the right backpack. Any old nylon duffel will get you through a week’s trip, but the best backpack for Europe will help keep you on the road for months at a time, all the while pushing you past the big cities of the continent into the heart of exploration.

If you want to see it all, you’ll have to manage the diverse landscapes and different weather patterns that make Europe so interesting to visit. The best bag for the endless summer of the Mediterranean coast might not stand against the changing weather of the Irish plains.

The good news is, modern backpackers can take advantage of Europe’s decades-old travel infrastructure with more great backpack choices than ever. With so many great backpacks on the market, it might be hard to narrow things down to the best bag for you. That’s where we step in.

Things have changed a lot since foreigners first started cutting costs and roaming through Western Europe, but one thing hasn’t: The best way to see this continent and get a feel for the rich range of cultures present is with your home on your back.

These Are The BEST Travel Bags for Europe

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

• Capacity (L) > 46
• Weight (G) > 1559
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 46x40x31
• Price ($) > 195

Tortuga Travel Pack 30L

• Capacity (L) > 30L
• Weight (G) > 1.8KG
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 20.5×12.2×7.5
• Price ($) > 325

Osprey Aether

• Capacity (L) > 65
• Weight (G) > 2267
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 81x40x28
• Price ($) > 315

Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

• Capacity (L) > 30
• Weight (G) > 1500
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 23x48x33
• Price ($) > 268

Farpoint 55

• Capacity (L) > 55
• Weight (G) > 1700
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 60x33x30
• Price ($) > 170

Nomatic Navigator 32

• Capacity (L) > 37-44
• Weight (G) > 2358
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 56x36x23
• Price ($) > 391

TropicFeel Shell

• Capacity (L) > 22-42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 50x30x19
• Price ($) > 290

Osprey UNLTD

• Capacity (L) > 68
• Weight (G) > 2812
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 81x40x38
• Price ($) > 700

WANDRD PRVKE

• Capacity (L) > 31
• Weight (G) > 1300
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 48x30x17
• Price ($) > 216

Osprey Sojourn

• Capacity (L) > 45
• Weight (G) > 4000
• Price ($) > 375

Monarc Settra

• Capacity (L) > 40
• Weight (G) > 2041
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 28x60x33
• Price ($) > 150

Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

• Capacity (L) > 42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 55 x 38 x 24
• Price ($) > 300

Choosing The Right Bag For European Travel

How and where we tested to find the best backpack for europe, final thoughts on the best bag for europe.

European Travel takes on all sorts of forms. Unless you plan on renting a car, your bag will need to deftly navigate buses, trains, crowded sidewalks, and long walks to the hostel, all while storing everything you need for your trip. 

At the minimum, your bag will need to fit in a luggage rack and pack a week’s worth of clothes. The good thing about traveling through Europe is you’ll never be too far away from the nearest laundry machine, even in the alps, so unless you plan on doing some serious backcountry exploring you probably won’t need to haul around a 70 Liter monstrosity. 

Most passionate minimalists and one-bag travel experts like to set the bar around 35-40 Liters for their bag, which generally provides the maximum amount of storage while still fitting easily in overhead compartments and luggage racks. 

The storage capacity is just the first piece of the puzzle. Any European adventure will likely have a lot of stops. There’s just too many cities to see and cheeses to try. Unless you’ve got a year budgeted out for roaming and romping, you’ll be living out of your bag and packing it up quite a bit. 

I take ease of access incredibly seriously when considering any new backpack. Ideally, I’d like a bag that lets me live for 24 hours without ever having to open the main compartment. 

Anytime I’m settling down for more than a night or two I’ll unpack, but if I can find a backpack with enough easy access points to get to my toothbrush, a change of clothes, some snacks, and my electronics without having to dig around through the muck and mire of the main drag, I’ll take it.

Finally, a backpack for European Travel should consider safety. Backpackers are easy targets for scammers and thieves, and there’s no such thing as a modern city without a few ne’er do wells lurking near the bus stations.

Nobody wants to travel around with a giant target on their back, but a bright red backpack is the closest thing to wearing a sign that says ‘Hello criminals, I am slightly out of my comfort zone AND everything I own is right here in this bag.’ 

Some backpack makers are catching on and offering jet-black looks that reduce down and don’t give off the wrong impressions, while others are coming up with high-tech solutions like locking compartments and RFID-blocking pockets. There is no backpack that can completely reduce the risk of turning down the wrong corner at the wrong time, but a great European travel bag will keep everything close to the chest and out of access for any potential pickpockets. 

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Best Overall Travel Bag for Europe – Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

• Capacity (L): 46
• Weight (G): 1559
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 46x40x31
• Price ($): 195

At the Broke Backpacker we’re a bit more accustomed to bus rides than bellhops, but it can never hurt to bring your own personal porter on your next adventure. It serves as its own bagman and it just might be the most organized bag Osprey has ever made. 

They didn’t simply pump the dang thing full of pockets, but instead added clutch access points like a full U-zippered main compartment, a protected laptop sleeve, and stow-able hip belt and harness. These perks allow the bag to perform well in all sorts of use cases. 

Unfortunately, there is no bag that is perfect for everyone, and there are a few zones where the Osprey Porter falls short. You might want to look elsewhere if you need a bag to break ultralight records or long-haul walks in the woods. Instead, this bag serves as a perfect companion for anyone planning on spending the next few months wandering through the European Continent. 

The list would be a whole lot shorter if we talked about where we didn’t test it. This bag has seen the Tour de France, the Running of the Bulls , the Cooper Hill Cheese roll, Oktoberfest, and the Battle of the Oranges. Without a fuss, the Porter has fit on all sorts of crowded buses and managed draconian baggage policies to get us there with our gear. 

Best Carry on Backpack For Europe – Tortuga Travel Pack 30L

• Capacity (L):  30
• Weight (G):  1.8kg
• Dims (CM, HxWxD):  20.5×12.2×7.5
• Price ($): 325

The Tortuga Travel Pack is a serious piece of equipment. The revamped 30L version of the Travel Pack has been custom designed to be accepted for carry on all over the world.

As well as being globally carry-on ready, it’s also got a phenomenal design, great organization, and it has HUGE amounts of space. Tortuga might be the company that best knows how to create space within their bags so you can pack the compartments to your heart’s content.

Note that there isa 40L version available but in order to spare you all the wrath of European airlines like Ryanair, we suggest using the smaller 30L version.

I loved taking this pack around Europe as it was accessible, comfy to carry and fit all my gear. One thing I noticed about this pack is how durable and strong the zippers feel.

Best Backpack For Backpacking Europe – Osprey Aether

• Capacity (L): 65
• Weight (G): 2267
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 81x40x28
• Price ($): 315

This heavy-duty option is a great choice for packing everything you own on your shoulders. The Aether is one of Osprey’s more technically advanced backpacks, built for the backcountry and just as suitable for winding cobblestone streets.

Some of this backpack’s models come with a detachable daypack that works great for quick stops, carry-on, and city tours. This is one of the biggest game changers in the backpacking industry and instantly elevated this pack to a must-have in my own closet. You can bring everything you need for a month’s vacation in Europe , all the while storing it in the room with ease, while you take only the essentials with you on your next day trek.

Fully kitted up, Osprey’s flexible shoulder pads and air mesh backing help lighten your load. Although there is no such thing as a bag that makes 70 Liters feel lighter than air, the Aether might be the closest thing to it.

The Aether has been my go-to bag for trips where I plan to be on my feet for more than a kilometer or two. Every time the train station ended up being a few kilometers away from the hostel, or I missed the early bus and had to get walking, I tested the limits of this bag and it passed with flying colors.

Best Bag For Budget Flights In Europe – Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

• Capacity (L): 30
• Weight (G): 1500
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 23x48x33
• Price ($): 268

Anyone who has ever shown up to a Ryanair flight without a printed ticket knows those budget flights can be a trap. The initial tickets are a steal, but the charges can quickly add up. One way budget airlines look to make a bit of extra cash is by reducing the amount of luggage you can take with you.

If you want to take advantage of the cheapest rates out there, this Nomatic travel bag is the best bet to get it done no matter the airline. The travel bag fits regulations and allows you to store more than any other carry-on bag on the market, thanks to Nomatic’s wealth of curious pockets and space-saving maneuvers.

Not only is the bag a high-tech beast, but Nomatic rounded out the edges, protecting your gear in a fully waterproof shell and adding on a few anti-theft perks that make the travel bag pack well above its nimble weight. With a slightly smug grin of satisfaction, we slipped our fully loaded Nomatic Travel bag in between the bars at the airline check-in counter that proved indeed it fits, it flies, and it’s got a full week’s gear inside.

Best Bag For Interrail – Farpoint 55

• Capacity (L): 55
• Weight (G): 1700
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 60x33x30
• Price ($): 170

Europe is best seen by train . There’s a certain romance to zipping past the dry Portuguese countryside without your hands on the wheel. Our favorite train-friendly travel is an iconic travel backpack. The Farpoint series is one of the best one-bag travel choices in the world, combining a bit of trail magic with some convenient storage features to make an extraordinary kit.

Train travel means more lenient luggage regulations, that is unless you’re trying to travel with a surfboard on Renfre. That means you can opt for a slightly larger backpack and store it all. The Farpoint makes it easy to pack a month’s worth of gear with a nice U-shaped zippered opening and large hip belt pockets that will fit a few snacks and train tickets. What makes this bag unique is its versatility.

Osprey pumps plenty of hiking knowledge into all of their packs, so even backpacks made for urban wandering come with clutch comfort features, great rain protection, and the adjustability to fit on any set of shoulders.

Looking for a same sized bag with a few different features? Have a look at the Rei Flash 55 Backpack then!

Best Backpack For European Cities – Nomatic Navigator 32

• Capacity (L): 32-41
• Weight (G): 2358
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 56x36x23
• Price ($): 399

You don’t want to have to stop back off at the hostel multiple times during a grand day out in the city. That means ideally, your backpack will carry everything you need for the day, rain or shine, without being too uncomfortable. That’s the Nomatic Navigator’s specialty. 

This bag can expand and contract from 32 to 41 Liters so you can pack exactly what you need for the day without leaving a bunch of empty space. Even if you start the day with a full bag, the expansion helps you sneak in that op-shop find. We also love the laid-back look of the navigator for city travel. 

Anyone can spot a backpacker a mile away with most of the usual suspects. Bright-colored hiking bags loaded to the brim may have the locals treating you slightly different, or help you stick out in the crowd. The navigator stays lowkey while sneakily storing a whole lot of the good stuff to help you check out new cities like one of the gang. 

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Best Backpack For Hosteling Europe – TropicFeel Shell

• Capacity (L): 22-42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 50x30x19
• Price ($): 290

Your dorm room probably doesn’t include a walk-in closet, but this backpack will make any pod feel like a target for the bling ring. The TropicFeel Shell is trying to completely change up the game, and while there are still some kinks to be worked out, this is a fantastic option for certain travelers.

Anyone who likes to have a perfect place for everything in their gear kit will literally giggle at the number of options the TropicFeel provides .

Between a wardrobe system, detachable toiletry kit, kangaroo pouch, and optional camera cube, you’ll be more organized than ever. Each one of these organizational points is detachable, which means once you arrive at the hostel you can hang your wardrobe, send the toiletry kit to the sink, slip the camera cube into your locker, and hit the town with an incredibly light day bag.

The bag is not the best choice for people heading far off from paved roads, as all the extra detachment points don’t make an incredibly lightweight pack. For anyone whose wandering goals are to make new friends and see new places, this backpack is an easy choice for life going from hostel to hostel in Europe.

Best Backpack For Hiking in Europe – Osprey UNLTD

• Capacity (L): 68
• Weight (G): 2812
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 81x40x38
• Price ($): 700

From the Camino Del Santiago through the Tour du Mont Blanc, hiking in Europe can take you across epic mountains and bounce you along wild surf. There are a lot of bags out there that can get you through a controlled day hike, but the best backpack for pushing things up a notch is the Osprey UNLTD. 

This bag is the culmination of Osprey’s decades of industry dominance. Its starting point is a combination of features that make other Osprey bags great, like a detachable daypack, superior Airscape breathability, and loads of straps and external tool attachments. The UNLTD then takes things to the next level with 3D-printed foam back panels and a carbon frame. 

This immense Antigravity system is the brainchild of Osprey founder Mike Pfotenhauer, who threw it all into this pack. The pack lifts its weight a bit off your shoulders and spreads the load evenly around your body to stay comfortable when long-distance trekking. 

Best Bag For Photographing Europe – WANDRD PRVKE

• Capacity (L): 31
• Weight (G): 1300
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 48x30x17
• Price ($): 216

This tarpaulin terror is one of our favorite up-and-coming backpacks. WANDRD is a Kickstarter darling that has spent the last decade proving that backpacks can be more than large black holes with shoulder straps. 

The PRVKE is the model that finally pushed them over the top and into our hearts thanks to the combination of performance, protection, and cheeky special features. The 31 Liter bag spreads storage across 8 convenient pockets and a main compartment. WANDRD also sells a camera carry case that helps compartmentalize things even further. 

Pockets, protection, and aesthetics combine to create a photography bag that can do a whole lot more. The bag is a perfect carry-on size and has enough quality materials on the outside to keep your gear dry from a few surprise showers. The rolltop wide opening is the cherry on top, allowing you to condense and expand this bag to exactly the size you need. 

Best Wheeled Backpack For Europe – Osprey Sojourn

• Capacity (L): 45
• Weight (G): 4000
• Price ($): 375.00

Europe’s cobbled streets and winding corners are a real challenge for wheeled backpacks. You can’t expect to run any old bag through the Rua da Bica and get out unscathed. If you don’t feel like carrying your gear on your shoulders, you should absolutely splurge for a top-quality roller like the Sojourn. 

This bag does include shoulder carrying straps, but it’s a bit bulky to lift up off its wheels for more than a few meters. It blends the line between backpack and suitcase, providing an ultra-durable set of wheels with a high chassis that helps take this roller off-road. 

You can choose between 45, 60, and 80 Liters to make sure no matter what kind of journey you’re embarking on, you’ll always have some space for souvenirs. 

Best Hybrid Bag For Europe – Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack

• Capacity (L): 40
• Weight (G): 2041
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 28x60x33
• Price ($): 150

Young European travelers have forged ahead on a path of sustainable exploration. There is no bag better to confidently explore the European continent than one made out of recycled materials, like this Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack made from 50 recycled bottles. The Travel Duffel Backpack proves that sustainable materials can do anything polyester can, all without the carbon footprint. 

The pack walks the line between a duffel bag and an old-fashioned backpack, allowing you to easily maneuver your bag through crowded train terminals and throw it over your shoulder for longer walks. It’s one of the only duffel bags in the business with adjustable sternum and waist straps as well as a full-sized laptop compartment to truly toe the line. 

At 40 Liters, the Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack sits just on the edge of carry-on eligibility, but you shouldn’t have any trouble getting it into an overhead compartment and skipping baggage claim on your way to your next adventure. 

Best Overall Travel Bag for Carry-On Travel – Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

• Capacity (L): 42
• Weight (G): 1.7kg
• Dims (CM, HxWxD):  55 x 38 x 24 cm
• Price (£): 195

The Adventure Bag from Stubble & Co is possibly the most perfectly designed travel bag on the market right now. For those wanting to spend a few months backpacking around Europe, the size and features of this bag really work well.

The bag opens up in a clamshell fashion like a suitcase meaning you no longer have to root around a top-loading bag for a specific item. To go one further in terms of organisation, each half of the bag is divided up into several zippered compartments deep enough to store inside things like packing cubes and other gear. This really makes it easy when you’re moving from place to place every few days as it’s easy to live out of the bag.

In terms of capacity, when combined with its superior organisational features, it offers the perfect size for backpacking around Europe. Bear in mind that in most European cities you’ll be getting around on public transport, so the smaller size of this bag as well as features like the hidden passport pocket make it perfect.

Want more Stubble & Co options? Check out our rundown of the best Stubble & Co. bags .

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So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

To test these packs, we laid our mits on each of them and took them out for a test spin Over a period of time, various members of our team took these different packs on various trips to put them well and truly through their paces.

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry stuff and as such, top points are awarded for how packable one is. Any decent carry in needs to make sure it maximises the space it does have and facilitates effective packing and we tested this out by packing, and unpacking. Simple right? 

Equally though, we also paid attention to how easy the pack was to unpack – being able to retrieve items quickly and easily bags a bag, bags of bonus points!

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

If a pack is overly heavy or awkward to carry then taking it along on trips becomes uncomfortable. Believe me on this, I have had more than my fair share of backpacks that just weighed an ounce or two, too much or perhaps had crappy straps that dug into my shoulders. 

As such we awarded full marks for packs that minimise weight and maximum carry-comfort.

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled its primary purpose we used it for this purpose. For example, if it’s a carry-on pack then we took it along as carry-on and made sure it actually oasses the Ryanait test and fits into the ever shrinking over-head cabins. For cycle backpacks we strapped them on and got on our bikes. You get the idea right? 

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well those people are fools because good gear can be both practical and cool. As such we also awarded points for how sexy a pack looks. 

Durability and Weatherproofing

Ideally, in order to really test out how durable a backpack is we would drop it from a plane and then run over it. Unfortunately though that is not entirely feasible so instead, we simply inspected the materials used and the build quality of the packs paying attention to things like the seam sewing, the traction of the zips and other pressure points that tend to break. 

Of course, testing out how waterproof a pack is simply a case of pouring a litre of water over it – any packs caught leaking, were promptly banned entirely from inclusion in our round-ups.

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What are you waiting for!? Plane tickets aren’t getting any cheaper. Now that you know the best bags for Europe, all that’s left to do is map out a plan for exploration and then throw it out the window. 

Your trip to Europe will be full of surprises, missed trains, foul weather cancellations, and hidden gems that make you stay a few extra days. Half the fun of a backpacking adventure is the wild places you end up when what you thought was going to happen falls through.

The wrong backpack will make winding up at the wrong bus station and finding out you have to walk another two kilometers sound like a death sentence. But the right choice will have you to saying yes and embracing the journey with open arms.

No matter which backpack you choose, rambling through Europe without a care in the world is a rite of passage for any broke backpacker, and as long as you choose a bag from this list, your exploration will be the beginning of a life on the road. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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The Backpacker Network

The Best Backpacks for Europe – Top Picks for Travellers!

Choosing the best travel backpack for Europe isn’t as simple as going to the supermarket and picking up the first bag you see. The continent’s ancient cities with cobbled walkways and tight, winding streets offer a unique challenge. And that’s without considering how you’ll travel between them!

Planes in Europe have different hand luggage allowances to those elsewhere and trains and buses tend to have storage compartments for big bags away from the seats. Cycling is also a popular way to travel locally.

We’ve regretted carrying travel bags on long-distance hikes, hated ourselves while trying to drag suitcases along tight cobbled streets and realised that comfortable trekking backpacks aren’t always ideal for city breaks in Europe! 

Through our mistakes, we’ve learnt what makes a good backpack for Europe and after testing a bunch of different setups, we’ve got plenty of wisdom to share.

Related : (links open in a new tab)

• How Much Does Backpacking Europe Cost?
• Season-by-Season Guide to Europe
• Europe Backpacking Routes (4 Epic Itineraries)

Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. We always write our articles before checking if affiliate links are available.

The Best Backpacks for Europe – Quick Answers!

• Available in male (Farpoint) and female (Fairview) models
• Carry on compliant
• Comes with Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee

• Made from recycled materials
• Suitcase style opening

Backpacks for Europe – Top Picks!

Osprey farpoint 40.

• Price Range: $
• Best Feature: Clamshell opening and carry-on compliant
• Feature To Improve: Not the most versatile Osprey backpack
• Read: Reviews of the Farpoint and Fairview (old models)
• New Model — Osprey released the new Farpoint and Fairview backpacks in 2022. They took an already great travel bag and used customer feedback to make it even better. The new models feature an improved AirScape back panel, as well as foam wings similar to the Osprey Porter . These offer more protection and better compression than the previous straps and wings. As well as this, Osprey corrected the biggest problem with the Farpoint and Fairview – the laptop sleeve placement. It now rests against your back as you carry the bag!
• Farpoint vs Fairview — As with most Osprey backpacks, this bag is available in male and female models. The Farpoint is built for men, while the Fairview is for women. In real terms, this means the Fairview straps are cut differently and the suspension system is made for a smaller frame.
• Comfort — The Osprey Farpoint and Fairview have always been comfortable backpacks. The padded shoulder straps, AirScape back panel, hip belt and LightWire Frame distribute the weight of your gear across your body, reducing the strain on your back and shoulders.
• Sizes — We always recommend the 40-litre version of these bags. They’re carry-on complaint, lightweight and don’t feel unwieldy when full. Plus, they hold plenty of gear for an extended backpacking trip. If you want a bit more space, the 55-litre models are an excellent choice. With the daypack removed, they usually fit into carry-on specs but you’ll need to double-check with your airline to be sure. Osprey also produce 70-litre versions of both the Farpoint and Fairview . These giant bags are too big for most travellers but the detachable daypack and extra space will be appealing for some.
• Clamshell opening
• Carry-on compliant
• Osprey's All Mighty Guarantee
• Not the most versatile Osprey backpack

TropicFeel Shell

• Price Range: $$
• Best Feature: Versatile and easy to pack
• Feature To Improve: Getting the right fit is challenging
• Read: Tropicfeel Shell review
• Travel Brand — Tropicfeel are an all-inclusive travel brand. They produce everything from travel shoes and apparel to backpacks and accessories. They know what they’re doing when it comes to producing excellent travel gear !
• Expandable — The Shell from Tropicfeel is 40 litres in its largest guise. However, if you don’t need that much space, the bag can be compressed down to 30 and even 22 litres! This versatility means the same bag can be used as your main travel backpack as well as a daypack! To achieve this, Tropicfeel rely on a series of straps, pouches and attachments.
• Conscious — The Shell is made from 100% recycled nylon and 60% recycled polyester. Tropicfeel work with Bluesign to ensure their materials come from ethical suppliers who treat their staff and the environment with respect. They’re also Climate Neutral Certified and provide transparent information about their entire supply chain thanks to Retraced .
• Accessories — Tropicfeel make a big song and dance about the accessories that work in conjunction with The Shell. The Tech Pouch and Toiletry Pouch both attach to the outside of the pack using the FidLock Mounting system (those little plastic nipple-looking things). You can only attach one at a time, so if you choose to use both, the other will need to be stored in the pack. The Camera Cube is an excellent piece of kit that fits perfectly into the bag but the Wardrobe system is overrated. It’s hard to use and the bag performs better without it. There’s also a padded laptop sleeve and a couple of hidden pockets for keeping valuables secure.
• Torso length is hard to get right
• Accessories are oversold

Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45

• Best Feature: Anti-theft features
• Feature To Improve: Security features make the bag very heavy
• ECONYL — The Venturesafe by Pacsafe is made from ECONYL. Created from discarded fishing nets and other waste plastics, this regenerated nylon removes the need for virgin plastics and reduces the environmental impact of the bag!
• Anti-Theft Technology — As with all Pacsafe bags, the Venturesafe keeps your gear safe. Using a combination of zip locking systems, eXomesh slashguard layers, a useful locking cable and puncture-resistant zips, you can rest assured your stuff is as protected as it can be while you travel around Europe!
• Ethics — Pacsafe have clear environmental and ethical policies . They donate 1% of website sales to grassroots projects through the Pacsafe Turtle Fund and arrange beach cleans across the world.
• Easy To Pack — As well as keeping your gear safe and helping to make the world a better place, the Venturesafe is a great backpack! The suitcase-style opening and huge main compartment make packing and organising your gear a breeze. The padded laptop sleeve can accommodate a 15-inch computer and there are a few smaller pockets dotted about the bag, so there’s always somewhere to store loose items!
• Comfort — Let’s not beat around the bush, Pacsafe’s Venturesafe is a heavy bag. Yet, it’s comfortable to carry. The internal frame distributes the weight well and the shoulder straps are padded enough to avoid them cutting in as you carry the bag. The waist strap directs a good portion of the bag’s weight to your legs, reducing strain on your back and shoulders.
• Anti-theft features
• Made with recycled materials
• Right on the limit for carry-on

Tortuga Travel Backpack

• Price Range: $$$
• Best Feature: Maximised space for carry-on
• Feature To Improve: Too much webbing on the hip belt (especially if you're slim)
• Carry-On Spec — Available in two sizes (30-litre and 40-litre), the Tortuga Travel Backpack is perfect for carry-on-only travellers. The 30-litre version is essentially guaranteed to be carry-on size for any airline. The 40-litre version can be touch and go for some international airlines but is well within US carry-on limits.
• Shape — While the bag’s square shape isn’t the most visually appealing, it maximises all the usable space within the bag – there are no awkward corners or parts of the bag that can only fit a pair of socks! It makes packing and organising your gear super simple. Plus, the bag opens like a suitcase so once unzipped, you have full, unfettered access to everything!
• Suspension System — The Travel Backpack is fully adjustable. The straps, back panel and hip belt can all be sized to fit you exactly. The straps are well padded, comfortable and spread the weight of your gear across your whole body. Load lifters ensure the bag doesn’t feel unwieldy when full and the moisture-wicking back panel keeps you cool and comfortable!
• Materials — The Tortuga Travel Backpacker is made from high-quality fabric and hardware. The bulk of the pack is created from durable Sailcloth. This material, first created for boat sails, is lightweight, uber-tough and waterproof. The buckles are rugged and the zips are waterproof and hardwearing.
• Makes the most of carry-on space
• Ultra-comfy
• Fully adjustable
• Not the best-looking bag

Osprey Farpoint Trek

• Best Feature: The hybrid nature of the bag
• Feature To Improve: A laptop sleeve would be a welcome addition
• Read: Osprey Farpoint Trek review
• Sizes — The Osprey Farpoint Trek is available in 55 and 75-litre models. The female version of the bag, the Fairview Trek, is available in 50 and 70-litre variants. We recommend the 50/55-litre models for travelling in Europe. They’re big enough to hold a ton of gear while being small enough to carry with relative ease. However, neither model is carry-on size, so you’ll need to check the bag on planes!
• Hybrid — Taking inspiration from Osprey’s extensive range of hiking and travel backpacks, the Farpoint/Fairview Trek is suitable for long-term travel and hardcore hiking trips. It features a clamshell design which offers easy access to your travel gear. Compression straps keep the bag as streamlined as possible and the amazing suspension system is super comfy, even after a long day of hiking!
• Comfort — The AirSpeed trampoline suspension keeps the pack off your back. This increases airflow and prevents bulky items pummelling your spine. It distributes the weight of your gear across your body and down to your hips. The hip belt features thick padding and can hold up to 80% of the bag’s weight, saving you from sore shoulders!
• Organisation — The Trek has one huge main compartment and a myriad of smaller pockets for arranging and organising your stuff. The main compartment can be sectioned off, so you can store a sleeping bag in the bottom part if required. You can also access this area through an extra zipper on the bottom section, so you don’t need to empty everything to get at your sleeping bag!
• Super comfy suspension system
• Separate entry points
• Rain cover is quite fiddly
• No laptop compartment
• Not carry-on size

Cotopaxi Allpa Del Dia

• Best Feature: Large internal compartments and suitcase-style opening
• Feature To Improve: Not the most comfortable back panel
• Del Dia — The Cotopaxi Allpa is available in a regular and Del Dia version. We recommend the Del Dia model because it’s made with (Re)Purpose fabrics. These offcuts from other backpack manufacturers mean Cotopaxi reduce waste and limit the environmental impact of their bags. Each Del Dia bag is unique with different coloured panels and stitching! You can choose from a range of Del Dia designs or use the ‘surprise me’ function to get a random colour combo!
• Size — The Allpa is available in 28, 35 and 42-litre models. The 35-litre model is the best for travelling in Europe because it’s carry-on compliant and can still hold plenty of gear. The 28-litre model makes an excellent daypack but only true minimalist travellers will be able to use it as their main pack. The 42-litre model is a little too large to always be carry-on compliant, although some airlines may allow you to take it as hand luggage.
• Suitcase Opening — The Allpa opens up like a suitcase. Once opened, it has one large main compartment and a series of smaller ones. Each has its own zipper and they’re all separated by lightweight mesh to ensure your gear remains organised. There’s a laptop sleeve in the back of the bag. This is accessed through an external zip. All the external zips have webbing tabs which you can pull the zipper through. These help prevent opportunistic thieves from getting into your bag.
• Carry — The Allpa carries well but the back panel lacks some padding compared to other backpacks on this list. The straps are less padded too which saves weight but means they’re not as comfortable as they could be. The straps can be hidden away when checking the bag for flights.
• Rain cover included
• Hard wearing
• No exterior pockets
• Anti-theft zips are more annoying than effective

Peak Design Travel Backpack

• Best Feature: Versatility 
• Feature To Improve: The weight and price
• Built for Photographers – As with all Peak Design products, the Travel Backpack is built for photographers. Thick foam padding around the bag means the gear inside the well protected and the bag holds its shape no matter how full or empty it is. There are a bunch of access points on the front, sides and back of the back, so you can easily get to exactly what you need. The bag integrates into the Peak Design ecosystem meaning their camera cubes, tech pouches and packing cubes all fit seamlessly into the backpack. 
• Expandable – Going from 30 litres up to 45, the Peak Design Travel Backpack is a true one-bag travel option. Fill it to the brim when on the move, then compress it down to use as a sturdy daypack when you leave the bulk of your gear at your accommodation. When used in 30 or 35-litre modes, this bag is within carry-on specs for most airlines but in the 45-litre iteration, it’s too big.
• Comfort – At a smidge over 2kg, the Travel Backpack is one of the heavier bags on our list. But even so, it remains one of the most comfortable. The thick foam padding which acts as protection also means the pack holds its shape well against your body, distributing the weight of your gear evenly across your shoulders, back and hips. The shoulder straps attach to the bag using a unique axial mounting system, which offers more adjustability than with a standard backpack, ensuring full comfort and versatility for a range of body types!
• Manoeuvrable – Almost every surface on the Travel Backpack has some kind of handle. This makes it easy to get the bag in and out of lockers, overhead compartments and other hidey holes. The shoulder straps and hip belt are stowable, allowing you to streamline this bag if you need to check it on a flight or just store it away.
• Expandable 
• Protects your gear
• Overkill for most travellers

Osprey Atmos/Aura

• Best Feature: Anti-Gravity suspension system 
• Feature To Improve: The weight
• Atmos vs Aura – As with many Osprey packs, this bag comes in specific gendered models. The Atmos is made for men, while the Aura is built for women. However, this isn’t a hard and fast rule. Some women may find the Atmos more comfortable just as some men may prefer the Aura. Try both in-store to see which offers the best fit for you!
• Hiking Bag – The Atmos/Aura backpacks are true hiking bags. They offer a range of features to make your trail days easier: huge water bottle pockets that can be accessed while wearing the bag, a fantastic Anti-Gravity suspension system that is one of the most comfortable we’ve ever tested, a front shove-it pocket for gear you’ll need in a hurry and excellent hip belt pockets are just some of the top-rated features within his bag! 
• Robust – The Atmos/Aura bags handle heavy loads well and can be used as real gear haulers if you’re tackling a long trail. At the same time, they work well enough as travel bags thanks to the vast storage space and rugged exterior. They lack some of the organisation of more dedicated travel bags but that’s to be expected!
• Adjustability – To ensure you get the best fit possible when choosing your backpack, consult the Osprey size guide. When your bag arrives, you may need to adjust the torso length, which is quick and easy to do. The fit on the fly hip strap also offers maximum adjustability so you can fine-tune the bag to you!
• Comfortable
• Carries weight well
• Loads of usable storage space
• Not always within carry-on size
• Heavy for a hiking bag

Osprey Farpoint Wheels

• Best Feature: The wheels 
• Feature To Improve: Backpack carry comfort
• Sizes – The Farpoint Wheels comes in two sizes: a 36-litre model and a 65-litre version. The smaller model is well within hand luggage sizes, even on budget European airlines. It’s very similar in size to most rolling hand luggage bags. The 65-litre bag will always be checked luggage as it’s much too large to take in the cabin. 
• Wheels – Unlike most wheeled luggage, the oversized 90mm casters on the Farpoint Wheels can handle relatively uneven terrain – you won’t get stuck between paving slabs or while walking along cracked old sidewalks. The single-stem handle reduces the overall weight of the bag but means it’s less manoeuvrable than it would be with a twin-stem handle. 
• Backpack Mode – When you inevitably hit some ancient European streets with uneven cobblestones or kerbs you need a stepladder to summit, the Farpoint Wheels has a trick up its sleeve. Un-stowing the shoulder straps and activating backpack mode only takes a minute, allowing you to swing the bag onto your back and walk free without needing to drag it behind you! When in backpack mode, the Farpoint Wheels is relatively comfortable compared to other wheeled backpacks thanks to the brilliant AirSpeed mesh back panel. However, it’s still nowhere near as comfortable as a regular Osprey backpack!
• Storage Space – Both the 36 and 65-litre models offer an astounding amount of usable space. They open like a suitcase and are essentially just a huge compartment for your stuff. There are very few organisational options within them, giving you ultimate freedom in how to pack your gear. Although this does mean packing cubes are important!
• Part of the Farpoint family
• Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee
• Heavy when carried
• Not the most comfortable backpack
• Single stem handle can make the bag hard to manoeuvre

What to Consider When Choosing a Backpack for Europe

Type of trip = type of backpack .

The kind of trip you’re on will directly affect the type of backpack you need. There’s no point taking a rugged hiking bag for a short city break and a standard travel backpack just doesn’t have the features you’ll need on a multi-day trek. Make sure the bag you choose matches your holiday! 

Travel Backpacks 

Unsurprisingly, travel backpacks are built for travel. They should be comfortable to carry for reasonable distances but certainly aren’t designed for all-day comfort. They may have lots of organisational compartments, or may just be a big open pocket, depending on what you desire. The weight of these bags varies but most have frames to help spread the load. Hip belts aren’t mandatory on travel backpacks but they’re relatively common. 

Hiking Backpacks 

If you’re heading off on a hiking trip to Europe, don’t put yourself through the pain of carrying anything that’s not a specific hiking bag. Trust me when I say, it’s not worth the suffering! 

Unless you’re going ultra-light, you can expect hiking-specific backpacks to have plush shoulder straps and a good solid hip belt. The back panel should be breathable and not rub or chafe – remember this is a bag that you should be able to wear all day! More technical hiking packs are likely to have extra features such as gear loops, external attachment points and easily accessible exterior pockets or storage compartments! 

Backpacks With Wheels

As the name suggests, these are backpacks with wheels, although they’re often used more as suitcases with backpack straps. If the majority of your trip will be short hops from airports to hotels, especially if you don’t have to stray too far from smooth roads and pavements, a wheeled backpack is a good choice! Just don’t expect them to be as light or as comfortable as a dedicated backpack! 

Hybrid Backpacks 

Much like backpacks with wheels, hybrid backpacks straddle two worlds. Our favourite hybrid backpack for Europe is the Osprey Farpoint Trek. It has great features for both travel and hiking and is surprisingly comfortable to carry for long distances! 

Other hybrid backpacks may include duffel bags with backpack straps or expandable travel bags that can act as a main bag and daypack depending on your needs!

When choosing a backpack for Europe, one of the most important things to consider is how much stuff you’re going to take. You don’t want to realise that you’ve not got enough room for all your gear the night before you travel. Likewise, dragging a massive bag around unnecessarily is a chore and you’ll end up carrying way more than you need– not great for your back!

If you travel light(ish), a 40-litre backpack should be enough. However, if you want a few more home comforts, you’ll need to opt for a larger bag. For most travellers, a 60-litre bag will be the most you’ll need.

Having a backpack that’s the right size for your stuff is all good and well but if it’s not comfortable, it’s a waste of time. Look out for bags with quality back support, padded straps, a good hip belt and a sturdy sternum strap. These features all make a backpack much more comfortable to carry.

Most travel backpacks today feature an internal frame that helps balance the bag, distribute the weight of your gear and help the bag keep its shape. Whether you need a framed bag often doesn’t matter, you’re likely to end up with one anyway! 

Backpacks that are badly built, or made from shoddy materials, will fall apart and need to be replaced. It’s bad for your wallet and the planet. A long-lasting backpack costs a little more initially but will last for years of travel!

👉 Check out this post if you’re looking for the most sustainable backpack choices ! 

Remember, you’ve got to carry it! A backpack that weighs too much will be uncomfortable and in rare cases, cause injury. It can also take your luggage over the weight limit for airlines which means paying more!

Organisational Features

Do you like a bag to be full of pockets and hidey holes, or do you prefer a bag with one big main pocket that you can stuff all your belongings into? It all comes down to personal preference.

Backpacks with a lot of pockets make it much easier to organise and find your gear. However, the extra features impact the bag’s usable space and add to the overall weight. Bags with just one large compartment can store slightly more (if packed correctly) but you’ll probably find yourself digging through all your gear to find small items that inevitably fall to the bottom.

If you opt for a backpack with few organisational options, packing cubes can help keep your stuff in order!

Security Features

Europe is home to some of the safest countries in the world. But as with everywhere, there are common scams and crimes to be aware of. Pickpocketing is rife in some of the continent’s popular tourist destinations. To protect yourself from thieves, consider a bag with added security features. 

Lockable zips and hidden pockets are the bare minimum and are common in most travel bags . Other features to look out for in anti-theft backpacks are slash-proof materials and uncuttable straps.

Weather Resistance 

Wouldn’t you know, it sometimes rains in Europe – even if you visit in the height of summer! Having a bag that can protect your belongings in case of a downpour means you have one less thing to worry about! 

Packing List for Europe

Getting your bag for Europe sorted is one thing but now it’s time to fill it! What you’ll need to pack for Europe depends on where you’re going and what activities you plan to do but this European packing list has all the essentials you need for a great visit! 

Packing Tips for Europe

Before packing for Europe consider:

• The time of year you’ll be visiting
• Where you’re going
• What activities you’ll be doing
• How many days of clothes you need (laundrettes are common in Europe)
• Whether your clothes have multiple uses

The Best Backpacks for Europe FAQs

What’s the best size backpack for travelling europe.

There’s no one right-size backpack for travelling in Europe. Light packers are unlikely to need a backpack more than 40-50 litres. Bags on the smaller end of this range can usually be taken as carry-on for international airlines too, so you won’t need to check a bag! For travellers wanting a few more luxuries, a 60-65-litre bag should be enough. Any bigger and the bag starts to become unwieldy – especially when navigating tight city streets or public transport!

Is it safe to travel with a backpack in Europe?

Yes, it’s safe to travel with a backpack in Europe. However, some cities in Europe have a bad reputation for pickpocketing. Keep your wits about you and don’t leave your bag unattended. When on public transport, store your bag at your feet rather than on your back – especially if you’re travelling at rush hour. Travelling with a backpack in Europe is just as safe, if not safer, than travelling with a suitcase.

Backpack vs suitcase for travelling in Europe?

Europe is full of ancient cities, narrow streets, cobblestones and extensive public transport systems. A backpack is much more suited to this environment than a suitcase. Having all your gear on your back means you can zip over uneven ground, down into metro systems and through crowds without having to drag everything behind you.

Is a 40-litre backpack enough for travelling in Europe?

For most travellers, a 40-litre backpack is enough for travelling in Europe. While some might want a bit more space from their bag, the pros of travelling with a smaller bag far outweigh the cons. Being able to fly carry-on only and keep all your stuff with you on planes and trains more than makes up for having to leave an outfit or two at home. Plus, a smaller bag is easier to carry when you’re exploring or moving between cities!

Can I bring a backpack full of clothes on a plane?

Yes, you can bring a backpack full of clothes on a plane. As long as there is nothing in there that you’re not allowed, and your bag fits within the airline’s limits, you can take what you like on a plane. Plenty of carry-on-only travellers take everything they need for months as hand luggage!  

Round Up of the Best Backpacks for Travelling in Europe

When choosing a backpack for Europe, size, comfort and durability are the most important factors to consider. Our favourite bag for travelling on the continent is the Osprey Farpoint / Fairview . These excellent all-rounders are the perfect travel companion for almost any trip.

We also love the Cotopaxi Allpa 35 . It’s an excellent backpack but the environmental and charitable work done by Cotopaxi makes it stand out as the eco-friendly choice. This is also true of the Tropicfeel Shell which has fewer organisational features but is still an environmentally friendly option. The best anti-theft backpack for travelling in Europe is the Pacsafe Venturesafe.

Tim Ashdown | Writer and Gear Specialist

After a life-changing motorcycle accident, Tim decided life was too short to stay cooped up in his home county of Norfolk, UK. Since then, he has travelled Southeast Asia, walked the Camino de Santiago and backpacked South America. His first book,  From Paralysis to Santiago,  chronicles his struggle to recover from the motorcycle accident and will be released later this year.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

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My Step-By-Step Guide to Backpacking Europe

Backpacking Europe is one of my favorite things to do as a traveler. There isn’t a year I don’t criss-cross the continent (except 2020 when no one was crossing Europe).

During the summer, hostels burst with life, the Mediterranean sparkles, streets fill with people drinking wine and enjoying the day, and the late night setting sun leads to long wonderous days. Winter brings Christmas markets, skiing, fewer crowds, and lower prices! And Spring and Fall bring the right mix of people, temperatures, and prices that make these two my favorite seasons to travel Europe.

Since starting this website in 2008, I’ve written a lot of posts on Europe. I visit Europe multiple times a year, have been all over the continent, lived there on multiple occasions, and I have even run tours there.

With so much content on the blog, I wanted to create a resource page that will help you plan your backpacking trip to Europe with ease. That way you don’t miss anything! In this post, you’ll find all my best resources on planning a backpacking or budget trip to Europe, including destination guides, transportation tips, accommodation information, ways to meet people, and so much more!

So, without further ado, here’s everything you could ever want to know about backpacking Europe:

Table of Contents

Step 1: Plan Your Backpacking Europe Trip

Step 2: get your gear for backpacking europe, step 3: how to get amazing accommodation in europe, step 4: get around europe on the cheap, step 5: save money while backpacking europe, step 6: find out what to see and do in europe, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

How Not to Feel Overwhelmed While Planning – Planning the perfect trip to Europe can be daunting and overwhelming. I’ve been there and I understand, but I can tell you from years of experience that the more you plan your trip, the more anxiety you will face.

How to Save for Your Trip – Is money stopping you from taking the trip of your dreams? Here are 22 easy ways to cut down on your daily expenses so you can save money to backpack Europe.

How to Find a Cheap Flight – Getting to Europe can be half the challenge. Luckily, there are a ton of flight deals to the continent now if you know when and how to look for them. This article will show you how to always get a cheap flight to Europe.

How to Earn Points for Free Flights and Hotel Stays – Free travel is my favorite kind of travel! This post shows you eight strategies I use to get over a million frequent flier points. These will get you out of your house faster, cheaper, and in comfort!

How to (Legally) Stay in Europe for More Than 90 Days – Every year, thousands of travelers wonder how they can stay in Europe for more than 90 days, which is the limit in the Schengen Zone. The good news is that there are a few different ways to stay. In this post, I share what you can do to stay legally beyond 90 days and on the continent in general.

How to Avoid Paying ATM Fees – You should never have to pay any bank fees while you are accessing your money in Europe! Here is my advice on how to avoid bank fees as your backpacking Europe.

Is Europe Safe to Visit? – Here is how to ensure you stay safe while traveling across the continent.  

What to Pack for Your Trip – What should you pack on your trip? Well, there is no one right answer, but this list will give you a good place to start. It’s what I take on my trips with me (though you’ll need to make some seasonal variations, I’m sure!).

The Ultimate Packing List for Female Travelers – In this post, Kristin Addis shares her packing insights for women, so that you can travel just about anywhere without spending a fortune on gear.

How to Buy Good Travel Insurance – Travel insurance is one of the most important things you’ll need for your trip. You wouldn’t have a car without car insurance or a home without home insurance, and you can’t have a trip without travel insurance!

The Best Travel Cameras – Wondering what kind of camera you should get for your trip? This post will show you exactly what you need — no matter your budget!  

How to Find a Good Hostel – This article features my best tips on how to find an affordable, clean, and fun hostel where you can meet a lot of amazing people.

The Best Hostels in Europe – This is a list of European hostels that I would definitely use again if I have the chance. Hope this helps with your next European backpacking adventure!

How to Become a House Sitter – This is a how-to guide to house-sitting, a wonderful opportunity that allows you to stay in a location rent free in exchange for watching someone’s house.

For more budget accommodation suggestions, check out my hostel hub page . It has all my favorite hostels around Europe!

If you’d rather stay in hotels, this page has all my favorite hotels in Europe .

And to find out where to stay in each city, visit my list of the best neighborhoods in Europe!  

The Ultimate Guide to Saving Money with Eurail Passes – Everyone traveling to Europe wonders if they will save money by buying a rail pass or if it’s cheaper to buy tickets as they go. This detailed post outlines everything you need to know about buying a rail pass!

Europe is also an amazing destination for road trips. Countries like Iceland , Scotland, Ireland, Portugal, and Norway are all amazing places to explore by vehicle.

If you’re planning to drive around Europe, use Discover Cars to find the best rental prices. They search rental companies big and small to find you the best deals.

You can use the widget below to get a quote. It’s fast and free:

How to Save Money on Food – While traveling Europe, food often becomes a major expense. Here are some tips for saving money on food so you still can afford a nice meal out every now and then.

How to Use the Sharing Economy to Save Money – The rise of the sharing economy has made backpacking Europe so much easier and cheaper. This post lists all my favorite ridesharing, house sharing, local meeting websites so you can get off the tourist trail and experience day-to-day life with locals!

61 Tips to Make You the Savviest Traveler – These 61 travel tips will help you become an expert traveler who gets around Europe cheaper, better, longer, and smarter!

14 Major Travel Scams to Avoid – Losing money to a preventable travel scam sucks. Learn what scams to look out for in Europe and save yourself a potential headache!

How to Crush it on Couchsurfing – While Couchsurfing isn’t as popular as it once was, it’s still an option for intrepid backpackers. This post can introduce you to the basics and help you find hosts around Europe.

How to Become a House Sitter & Get Free Accommodation – Pet sitting is a great way to get free accommodation when traveling Europe. It’s easy to get started too! This post will show you everything you need to know.  

Additionally, here are a few of my favorite companies in Europe. These are the comoanies I use when I’m looking for things to do, food tours, walking tours, and more!

Walks – Walks offers in-depth history, food, and cultural tours in cities around the world (especially Europe). Its small-group tours offer exclusive behind-the-scenes access other companies can’t get and use really incredible and knowledgeable guides. I can’t recommend them enough.

Devour – Devour has all kinds of amazing food tours around Europe. If you’re a foodie who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, these tours are the best on the continent. I take them every chance I get.

GetYourGuide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. The site has tons of tour options in cities all around the world, including cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more! It’s a good resource to search for specific tours in any destination.

And for a complete overview of Europe in one easy-to-read post, you can check out this free guide . It covers all the basics, including ways to save money, things to see and do, when to go, and more!

This massive resource list will help you plan your trip to Europe in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step pattern so you won’t get lost, overspend, or stress out about your upcoming dream trip. Europe is one of my favorite regions of the world (which is why I spend so much time there). There’s so much variety in food, culture, and language, as well as so much history. I love the continent and hope you use these tips to plan your ultimate backpacking adventure in Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here are my favorite hostels in Europe !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Europe? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Europe for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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10 Best Travel Backpack For Europe in 2023

So you’re going to Europe . Everything’s planned, your flight’s booked and all that’s left to do is find the perfect travel backpack to take on your trip. And that’s exactly what I’m going to show you here.

In this review, we’ll check out some of the best and most popular backpacks and duffle bags for travel. We’ll see some that are pretty small and perfect as carry-ons, and others that are so big that you could comfortably pack your entire closet inside them.

Does that sound good? If so, let’s get down to the details and see exactly which is the best travel backpack for Europe.

Top Product Overview

Best backpacks for europe, travel backpacks.

In this section we’ll check out a few classic travel backpacks for Europe. They usually come in several sizes, ranging from a typical carry on, to a huge pack that you could bring on a 2-month trip. Travel packs are usually front-loading, and they are a pretty convenient replacement for a classic suitcase.

Osprey Farpoint

The Farpoint is definitely one of your top choices for one bag travel in Europe. You can choose between several different sizes, two of which come with removable daypacks – perfect for wandering around the town for a few hours.

The travel pack has everything you want out of a travel backpack. In fact, it’s a backpack that is really like a suitcase.

The big difference is that it is comfortable, has a ventilated harness and backpanel, multiple compartments and pockets for the excellent organization, a laptop compartment, and plenty of compression straps to keep its load nice and tight . But you can still throw it on your back and walk anywhere without having to drag a suitcase around!

• Multiple sizes and capacities (smallest is carry on sized)
• Great organizational features
• Detachable daypack on some
• Excellent wearing comfort
• Pretty expensive
• Not great for really short people
• Larger sizes are pretty bulky

Product Information

• Osprey Farpoint 40: 21" x 14" x 9" (40L), 3.17 lbs
• Osprey Farpoint 55: 25" x 13" x 13" (55L), 3.92 lbs
• Osprey Farpoint 70: 26" x 13" x 13" (70L), 3.92 lbs
• Osprey Farpoint 80: 29" x 15" x 16" (80L), 3.88 lbs

Osprey Fairview

This is the women’s version of the Farpoint travel backpack . In terms of features, the two Osprey packs are almost exactly the same.

The Fairview is obviously slightly smaller and wider, as it was designed to fit the contours of a women’s body better. Additionally, all the pros and cons of the Farpoint travel pack apply to this one as well.

• Female specific fit
• Great organisation features
• Osprey Fairview 40: 21" x 14" x 9" (40L), 3.16 lbs
• Osprey Fairview 55: 25" x 13" x 12" (55L), 3.20 lbs
• Osprey Fairview 70: 25" x 14" x 12" (70L), 3.87 lbs

Front Loading Hybrids

If you can’t decide between a travel backpack and a duffel, why not get a hybrid? In other words, a backpack that can easily be transformed into a duffel bag and carried like one. If you’re interested, check out these hybrids.

Osprey Porter

The Porter travel backpack  is a great choice for you if you like to stay organized. It has a few different compartments, an abundance of both external and internal pockets, and sleeves for your laptop and tablet. The main compartment is  front loading , so you will be able to access all your stuff pretty easily.

It comes in  two sizes, the smaller of which can be used as a carry-on . So, if you’re a pro at packing and know that you can fit in a month’s worth of clothing into the 46 liters of the smaller Porter, definitely go for it. It’s like a suitcase on your shoulders!

• Stowaway harness
• Front loading compartment
• multiple pockets for organization
• Compatible with Osprey Daylite
• The backpanel is not ventilated
• Might not be accepted in cabin on all airlines
• Osprey Porter 46: 22" x 14" x 11" (46L), 3.6 lbs
• Osprey Porter 65: 24" x 14" x 15" (65L), 3.8 lbs

Timbuk2 Wander

The Wander travel backpack is a great convertible option. It is pretty comfortable to carry like a backpack, since it does have  a padded and ventilated backpanel and harness . However, it  does not have a hip belt  so it won’t be as comfortable as some of the Ospreys we previously saw.

And when you want to, you can just  transform it into a duffle  and carry it like that. The harness is stowaway, so you don’t have to worry about anything dragging on the ground or hanging from the travel pack. And even though it has a pretty large capacity, it is still small enough to be used as a carry-on backpack too.

• Padded laptop compartment fits all laptops
• Many pockets for organization
• Padded and ventilated harness and backpanel
• Lack of hip belt reduces carrying comfort
• Top and bottom compartments reduce space in main compartment
• No shoulder strap
• Dimensions: 22.8" x 15" x 7.48"
• Weight: 3.7 lbs
• Capacity: 40 liters

Top Loading Backpacks

Top loading packs are usually large packs that people use for backpacking. That means that they are great for trips that are many months long – as long as you can pack efficiently. If that’s what you need for your trip to Europe, check out these travel backpacks.

Osprey Atmos (And Aura)

Get  the Atmos AG backpack  if you’re looking for something with  very high capacity . It’s meant to be a hiking backpack, so you can actually wear this comfortably for hours on end . This particular Osprey has an AntiGravity harness and backpanel that will make 50lbs feel like nothing. And they are also completely padded and ventilated, which significantly improves your carrying comfort.

The travel packs are pretty large, so forget about bringing them inside the cabin. But that also means that you’ll be able to pack a lot of clothes and gear inside them, and all the different compartments and pockets  will help you organize your belongings easily.

• FlapJacket cover can be used as a daypack
• Raincover is included
• Lots of compartments, pockets and straps for your gear
• Not a great choice if you want to avoid checked baggage fees
• Can’t access the main compartment from the front
• No dedicated laptop sleeve
• Osprey Atmos 50: 33" x 15" x 15" (50L), 4.21 lbs
• Osprey Atmos 65: 34" x 15" x 16" (65L), 4.56 lbs

Osprey Aura

Quality-wise, the Aura is exactly the same as the Atmos – after all, it is a strong hiking backpack. Just the women’s version. So, all the pros and cons of Atmos also apply to this travel backpack for Europe . But size-wise, there are some differences, since this pack is meant to fit the female body better.

It is not as tall as the Atmos, and it is also somewhat lighter, which means that it will be easier for women to adjust the pack to their own bodies. And when we’re looking at a 50+ lbs pack, it is incredibly important that it fits you like a glove – if you want to avoid pain, soreness and the hospital.

• Large size great for longer trips
• Might be too much like a hiking pack for some
• Osprey Aura 50: 30" x 14" x 14" (50L), 4.18 lbs
• Osprey Aura 65: 31" x 15" x 16" (65L), 4.42 lbs

Osprey Aether

The Aether  is another large capacity pack from Osprey that can easily be used as a travel backpack. Just like the Atmos, it features an  AntiGravity harness  that will keep you comfortable in spite of how heavy the pack gets.

The foam-padded and  ventilated backpanel and shoulder straps  of this suspension system will also help with that. As long as you adjust the pack to fit your body properly.

This particular travel backpack has many different features, which include  multiple compartments, plenty of pockets everywhere, access to the main compartment from the front of the pack, and straps and attachment points for all your gear . If you are going to be carrying a lot of gear with you in Europe, this might be the perfect pack for you.

• Main compartment accessible both form the front and the top
• Excellent suspension system
• Multiple compartments and pockets for easy organization
• It is pretty heavy, with more than 5 lbs in the smallest version
• Not available in a carry on size
• Does not have a dedicated laptop or tablet sleeve
• Osprey Aether 60: 33" x 15" x 12" (60L), 5.15 lbs
• Osprey Aether 70: 33" x 16" x 13" (70L), 5.21 lbs
• Osprey Aether 85: 34" x 17" x 15" (85L), 5.37 lbs
• Duffel Bags

If you’re not really a travel backpack person, then a duffel is probably what you are looking for. They’re great alternatives, especially because they are often much lighter than traditional backpacks, but have larger capacities. In this section we’ll take a look at a few high quality duffel bags that would be a great companion for your trip in Europe!

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel bag  is a great choice for travel in Europe.

For one thing, it  comes with multiple shoulder straps that allow you to carry it on your back  – just like a backpack. And considering that it comes in a 120-liter size, I’d say that’s more than useful. And the outer fabric is coated with a weather-resistant finish, the same one that is used in their winter jackets.

There aren’t too many pockets and compartments on the bag, but there are some. After all, if you’re looking for a great organization, you shouldn’t be looking at duffels at all. But you do get several  daisy chains  that allow you to attach even more gear to the exterior of your duffel.

• Features DWR finish for improved weather resistance
• The smallest duffel conforms to airlines' carry on requirements
• Very lightweight considering the size and capacity
• Larger sizes will get very heavy and uncomfortable to carry
• Not enough pockets and compartments for good organization
• No dedicated electronics compartment
• Black Hole Duffel 40L: 21" x 13.7" x 10.6" (40L), 2 lbs 0.8 oz (930 g)
• Black Hole Duffel 55L: 26.7" x 15.7" x 11.8" (55L), 2 lbs 9.1 oz (1165 g)
• Black Hole Duffel 70L: 28" x 17.5" x 13", 3 lbs 2.8 oz (1440 g)
• Black Hole Duffel 100L: 31.5 x 19.5 x 14.5"(100L), 3 lbs 9.9 oz (1640 g)

The North Face Base Camp Duffel

The North Face duffels are slightly  larger than the Patagonia ones , so if you’re looking for something with even more capacity they’re a great option. They’re also  heavier  but not by a lot, especially considering the difference in capacities.

There are several ways to carry these duffels – you get   two padded shoulder straps, so you can carry it like a backpack or like a messenger bag, and there are the comfortable carry handles  if you want to carry it in your hands.

You can choose between several different sizes,  ranging from a 50-liter carry on, to a 130-liter  monster. Since there is so much range, I’m certain you can find something that will hold enough stuff on your trip to Europe.

• Several carrying possibilities
• Multiple capacities, including both a carry on and a large duffel for a very long trip
• Lockable zippers ensure safety of your belongings and give you peace of mind
• Very few compartments and pockets
• Pretty heavy for a duffel
• Carry handles are not padded
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel S: 20.87" x 12.8" x 12.8" (50L), 2.7 lbs
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel M: 25.4" x 13.9" x 13.9" (71L), 3.5 lbs
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel L: 27.56" x 15.75" x 15.75" (95L), 4.05 lbs
• The North Face Base Camp Duffel XL:29.73" x 17.72" x 17.72" (132L), 4.4 lbs

What To Consider

Before you can find the perfect bag for your trip to Europe, you have to know what you are looking for. Here are the top things that you should consider when purchasing luggage.

Best Type Of Backpack For Europe

We’ll check out several different types of backpacks, including both front and top-loading ones, duffels, hybrid packs etc. If you know what you are looking for, use the quick navigation to jump to that particular section.

If you don’t know what you want – well you have to figure it out. Here’s a little help:

Travel backpacks are great for longer trips, and for people who will spend most of their time on foot and need their stuff with them at all times. The same goes for large packs for backpacking.

Duffels are usually great as carry-ons (as long as they fit airlines’ requirements), and they are the best choice for shorter trips. However, carrying a large duffel around for hours will make you uncomfortable, and I don’t recommend getting one for a trip longer than five days.

Ladies, check out backpacks specifically made for women. And no, it’s not because of the color or anything; these packs (especially the Osprey ones) were made just for your body and they will fit you much better then men’s packs. Which means that you will be more comfortable and not in pain.

Top Loading Vs. Front Loading Backpacks

This is a huge difference – do you want a pack to put all your stuff in, or a pack that you can use to carry your stuff just when you’re out exploring?

If it’s the latter, go for a top loading pack because front loading packs are very impractical for on-the-go use.

Size Of The Backpack or Bag

First, you need to consider how long you are going to be away, and if you plan to bring any other luggage with you. So, the more stuff you want to put inside the backpack, the bigger the pack you should get.

However, you also need to keep your own body in mind. Some backpacks will be way too large for petite people, while others might be too small for very tall people. Definitely check out the dimensions of a pack before you press the buy button, to avoid any nasty surprises when the package arrives.

Those are the most important factors that you have to consider. I hope that you now have a good idea of what you need, so let’s check out which backpacks are your best options for travel in Europe!

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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.

Five Great Backpacking Europe Routes

Last Updated on February 14, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

For many, the act of donning a backpack and wandering aimlessly throughout the European continent is seen as something of a right of passage. Travelling on a budget is becoming easier and more accessible for people of any age with many options available for some non-traditional backpacking Europe routes.

Most people don’t have an unlimited amount of time to set aside for travel, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a backpack Europe at all. With this in mind, here are some things to keep in mind when planning a budget trip and also some itinerary ideas for any length of time!

Table of Contents

Planning a European Backpacking Route

Before I dive headfirst into all of the possible backpacking across Europe routes you could take, there are a number of things to consider before you begin planning your itinerary. Everything from your own particular travel style, your budget, and the season in which you plan to travel are all significant components that should be appraised prior to booking a flight.

Travel Style

One of the biggest factors that needs to be considered when planning a backpacking Europe trip is how you intend to travel. More often than not, people planning a trip tend to get overly excited and seem to think that it’s a good idea to pack as many places as possible into a short period of time.

This can be one of the biggest mistakes you can make, as it will more likely lead to exhaustion and travel burn-out rather than a fulfilling backpacking experience.

I am definitely a massive advocate for slower-paced travel as I believe that it allows travellers to really experience a city, town, or country while reducing the possibility of overwhelm and exhaustion. This is why, generally speaking, I would recommend spending an average of three nights in each place you intend to visit.

For bigger cities with many points of interest, I would recommend extending this to four or five nights (or more) and for a smaller town or city, I honestly wouldn’t recommend spending fewer than two nights.

While it may seem on the surface that destinations are close by, travel days are a huge time drain and take, at least, half of an entire day and can be tiring. This inevitably leaves less time to adequately explore your destination. A good way to counter this is by staying in one strategically located destination where you can easily access other places for day trips.

Getting Around

How you plan to get around Europe is also another key consideration when planning your Europe backpacking route. Depending on which region you happen to be visiting, there are different transport options that are available to you.

For instance, if you’re planning on spending the majority of your time in the Balkans or the Baltics , you’re not going to want to rely on train travel — trains aren’t well-developed in these regions! No, you’re going to want to take the bus instead.

In fact, if you’re looking to save money in a lot of countries throughout Europe (even if there is a well-developed train system), then the bus might be the best option for you, especially in countries with expensive train networks.

Whether you’re looking to book a bus or a train, however, we recommend using Omio , which compares bus and train routes and allows you to book the best option for you. For buses, we also recommend using Flixbus. They are an affordable bus company that operates throughout Europe and have prices that are particularly friendly to those trying to stick to a budget.

If you are in a country where it makes more sense to take the train or you just prefer it to the bus, then it is worth it to look into getting a rail pass. Depending on where you’re from, purchasing to Eurail pass or an Interrail pass could be one of the smartest financial decisions you could make while planning out your trip.

If you’re interested in visiting a lot of regions around Europe, there are also budget airlines on the continent such as Ryanair, WizzAir and EasyJet. These are not as cheap as they used to be, but you can still find affordable flights on occasion – especially if you’re not checking in any luggage.

It’s likely that you’re going to be trying to be backpacking Europe on a budget and this directly effects what kind of route or itinerary you devise.

Contrary to popular belief, the entire European continent isn’t outrageously expensive and there are certainly a number of regions that can be incredibly affordable for Western travellers. That being said, however, your money can definitely go a lot further in most Central and Eastern European countries than in Western Europe.

When trying to figure out a budget for a backpacking Europe itinerary, it is best to just come up with a general ballpark figure of how much you’re willing to spend and how long you want to travel. This can give you a greater idea of where it would be best to go and when.

The main costs that need to be considered during any number of backpacking through Europe routes are the prices of accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and entertainment.

However, there are also pre-trip expenses to consider like travel insurance. World Nomads offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

Another option if travelling long term is SafetyWing . They offer travel medical insurance policies at one of the lowest rates on the market.

To overgeneralise, it’s hardest to stick to a tight budget for backpackers in most Western and Northern European countries. Central Europe is best for a mid-range budget and Eastern Europe and the Balkans tend to be the most affordable regions on the continent. Obviously, there are exceptions to these guidelines depending on the country or city you happen to be travelling in.

The last major thing to consider is which season is best to travel in. The European continent very much experiences all four seasons, with most countries experiencing cold, snowy winters and hot, muggy summers.

Tourist seasons in Europe are broken up into three distinct categories: high season (June – August), low season (December – February), and shoulder seasons (March – May and September – November).

There are definite pros and cons to planning your route through any of these seasons. If you plan to travel during the high season, you can definitely expect some of the best weather.

The days are normally very warm and, due to Europe’s more northern location, also quite long. Most of the tourist facilities will be open and there are also a number of festivals and cultural events that tend to take place during the summer.

Conversely, travelling in the high season does come with its own setbacks. As it is the most popular time to visit Europe, accommodation, restaurant, and tourist attraction prices are often inflated. Popular sites and seaside cities and towns can become incredibly crowded and with that comes a high demand for everything, making it a lot less easy to be flexible.

If you do plan to travel in the high season, it’s generally pertinent that you book most things ahead and plan well in advance. We recommend booking hostels through Hostelworld or budget rooms through Booking.Com which often allows you to book without paying upfront. Another great option, particularly if travelling as a couple is to use Airbnb, which is available throughout Europe.

Travelling in the low season can be an appealing option for those who are looking to avoid tourist crowds and who don’t mind the inevitable cold weather. Travelling around the Christmas season can be especially rewarding, as most cities and towns go all out with cheerful decorations, lights, and wonderful Christmas markets.

Prices are also often a lot cheaper than in the high season and it can be a lot easier to be flexible with your travel plans. Due to low demand, however, you may find that some tourist attractions either have very limited opening hours or are closed entirely and, due to cold weather, a seaside escape isn’t really in the cards if you’re travelling in the winter.

If you were to ask my opinion, I would say to plan your trip in the shoulder seasons. The weather, while sometimes unpredictable, is generally milder and often pleasant and the tourist crowds are few. The inflated prices of the summer aren’t usually in place and also the accommodation demand isn’t as high, leaving more room for flexibility.

Three-Week Backpacking Europe Routes

If you are short on time but still want to experience the travelling mindset that comes with backpacking, then three weeks is the perfect length for an itinerary. Because it is synonymous with travelling on a budget, these routes for backpacking Europe will concentrate on Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans.

Central European Highlights Itinerary

The best place to begin many Central and Eastern European trips is in Budapest , which is a fantastic and vibrant city for budget backpackers. This itinerary sees you visiting some of the biggest and brightest major cities in Hungary, Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic.

Budapest – plan to spend at least five days in Hungary’s capital city. This will give you enough time to see all of the great sites, experience its great nightlife and thermal bathhouses and also take a day trip. Budapest is truly one of the best places to visit in Europe so it’s worth taking your time here.

Krakow  – plan to spend at least three days in Krakow , which will allow you explore its beautiful Old Town and Kazimierz Quarter and take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau or the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Wroclaw – this charming student city is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. Spend three or so nights here and take the time to explore the Old Town, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, lounge in the many parks, and hunt for the many dwarf statues scattered throughout the city.

Berlin – Germany’s achingly cool capital deserves to have at least five nights devoted to exploring it. There are so many cool things to do in Berlin , including eating delicious international cuisine, experiencing its legendary nightlife, admiring the street art in neighbourhoods like Kreuzberg, and getting cultured in some of its many museums.

Prague  – while Prague’s main tourist spots are easy to explore in just one or two days, it is worth spending about four days in the beautiful Czech capital. This will allow you to get off the beaten path in the city. Alternatively, you could use one of these days to spend a night in nearby Cesky Krumlov.

Balkan Highlights Itinerary

If you’re looking to avoid the tourist crowds that are inevitable in the former itinerary and want to get a little bit off the beaten path, heading to the Balkans is a fantastic option. This is one of the most underrated corners of Europe and the Balkan countries are very much worth exploring. Consequently, Budapest is also a fantastic starting point for exploring this under-explored region.

Budapest – though Hungary is not considered a Balkan country, its capital city is a great place to start. Five nights in Budapest is the perfect amount of time to really get to know this amazing city well.

Pécs  – the charming Hungarian city of Pécs is still fairly undiscovered by international tourism, which gives you all the more reason to go! The city itself is wonderful to explore, but it is also surrounded by beautiful nature. Three nights here will give you a taste of a different side of Hungary.

Novi Sad  – as Serbia’s second-largest city, Novi Sad is small but charming. It is worth spending at least two nights here in order to explore its lovely Old Town, fortress, and thriving cafe culture.

Belgrade  – Serbia’s capital city may seem a bit rough around the edges, but it is easily one of our favourite European cities and it is well worth taking a fair amount of time getting to know it. It is becoming infamous for its incredible nightlife, but the cultural and historical significance are worth learning about as well. Spending five or so nights here would be ideal.

Sarajevo – the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina has a long and troubled history. Today, it is a wonderful city that has a definite east-meets-west feel. Three days in this city will allow you to enjoy it’s laid-back lifestyle while also giving you time to go to some museums to learn about BiH’s history.

Mostar  – Mostar is probably one of the most popular cities to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but many treat it solely as a day trip. While the city itself is small, it has quite a tumultuous history that is worth learning about. There are also some great day trips and tours to take from Mostar, including to the Kravice Waterfall and Blagaj Monastery. Three nights in Mostar is a great way to end this trip.

6 Week Backpacking Europe Routes

If you have more time, six weeks is really the ideal trip length. Especially if you’re travelling in the low or shoulder seasons, six weeks allows for more flexibility in your trip planning as well.

Central European Greats Itinerary

If you’re keen to explore more of Central Europe, this is a fantastic route to follow. It sees you exploring both the capitals and smaller towns and cities of Hungary, Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic.

Budapest  – The best starting point for any Central Europe trip , if you have six weeks for your backpacking Europe itinerary, I would recommend spending one of them in Budapest. Seven days in the Hungarian capital will give you a solid amount of time to really get to know and appreciate this fantastic city.

Krakow  – Krakow is a good place to begin exploring Poland. Three to four days here is probably enough to see the sites and take a day trip or two.

Wroclaw  – spend three or four nights in this charming student city

Warsaw – it is worth spending at least three nights exploring the Polish capital

Poznan  – another beautiful Polish city, Poznan’s Old Town is worth spending one full day exploring and it is also a great idea to head to nearby Wielkopolska National Park. Three nights is ideal.

Berlin  – the German capital is another great city to spend at least a week in. This way, you can see the main sites while also getting a bit off the beaten tourist path.

Dresden – a lesser-visited East German city, there are two unique sides to Dresden . Spend three or so nights here to get to know it.

Prague  – the main sites of the Czech capital can easily be seen in two or three days, but spend four or five days here so you can explore other quarters, such as Zizkov. Despite its popularity, there are definitely ways to get off the beaten path in Prague.

Cesky Krumlov  – while this city can be visited as a day trip from Prague, it can be worth spending one or two nights here to see with when the hoards of day tourists go home for the day.

Olomouc  – we are sure that Olomouc is going to become a tourist hotspot in the years to come, so it’s worth spending three or so days exploring this laid-back city before it’s discovered by the masses.

Obviously, there are several other places you could put on a Central European trip, but this is a good outline to follow.

Balkan Greats Itinerary

As I said earlier, the Balkans are a fantastic place to get off the beaten path in Europe. Travellers could easily spend months and months exploring these fascinating countries (we have!), but six weeks is a fantastic length of time to really get an in-depth feel of this wonderful region.

Budapest – 4 to 5 days in the Hungarian capital is a great way to kick off this Europe backpacking trip

Pécs  – three nights is a great amount of time to explore this Hungarian city

Novi Sad  – two or three nights is ideal to get to know the second-largest city in Serbia

Belgrade  – spend a few days getting to know this truly underrated European capital

Sarajevo  – three or so days is a good amount of time to explore the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar  – spend two to three days in this city in the south of BiH

Kotor – two or three days is perfect to explore this beautiful Montenegrin city

Albania – Albania is a really fascinating country to explore, you could spend a couple of days in its capital of Tirana and then a couple more visiting the UNESCO-listed sites in Berat and Gjirokaster. Albania also has miles of pristine Adriatic coastline — Sarande is a great city to enjoy the beach.

Ohrid  – a charming Macedonian city on the banks of Lake Ohrid . Two or three days is perfect to see all of the sites.

Skopje – North Macedonia’s capital can be seen and explored in three or so days

Sofia  – the capital of Bulgaria is often overlooked by tourists , but it is worth spending at least four days exploring this ancient metropolis

Plovdiv – Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Plovdiv has a number of ancient ruins and cool things to do . Three days at least is a good amount of time to spend here.

If you have more time, I would recommend travelling to Kosovo and visiting cities such as Prizren or Pristina. Heading into Northern Greece can be very much worth it as well, especially to see the stunning monasteries at Meteora .

Eastern Europe Itinerary

If you want to stay off the beaten path but would prefer to head north rather than south, consider adding the Baltic States onto your six-week backpacking Europe route. This itinerary sees you starting in Berlin and travelling north through Poland up to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

Berlin – spend a few days in the effortlessly cool German capital

Wroclaw – three days is the perfect amount of time to spend is this cool Polish city

Krakow  – three days in Krakow gives you enough time to experience the best of the second-largest Polish city

Warsaw – spend two or three days exploring the Polish capital

Vilnius  – the severely underrated capital of Lithuania deserves at least four days to explore. Consider taking a day trip to nearby Trakai with its charming lake and castle.

Kaunas  – the second-largest city in Lithuania can be explored in two days

Palanga  – enjoy the beautiful Baltic coastline from this popular Lithuanian coastal town. It is also possible to head to the Curonian Spit from nearby Klaipeda .

Liepaja – Latvia’s third-largest city boasts an interesting history, wonderful art nouveau architecture, a former Soviet prison that you can actually spend the night in, and a beautiful beach. Spend at least three nights enjoying this Baltic gem.

Riga – try to spend at least four full days in Latvia’s vibrant capital city

Tartu – Estonia’s second-largest city has a large student population and many cool things to see and do. Two or three days here should allow you to experience the highlights.

Tallinn – Estonia’s beautiful medieval capital is a popular cruise ship port. The city itself is quite small, however, and can easily be explored in two or three days.

There are so many routes you could take whilst backpacking in Europe, but these five will see you getting a little off the beaten path. They will also allow you to get better value for money than other routes through some Western European countries.

Are you looking for routes for backpacking in Europe? What does your itinerary look like? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Backpacking Europe Packing List & Pre-Trip Checklist

How Much Does Backpacking Europe Cost in 2024?

18 Must-Have Backpacking Europe Essentials

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Highly recommend Estonia! I spent a whole semester in Tartu and it’s a beautiful place. Saaremaa is also great, with a unique culture and beautiful scenery. Stay in the cottages/cabins for the perfect stay. Also if you can, try the local bread in Muhu. 🙂 It’s a whole thing. Best rye bread ever, and Estonia loves their rye!

Tere õhtust!

Thanks for your comment, Madison! Tartu is one of our favourite cities – highly recommend it, as well! We haven’t made it to any of the islands yet, but it’s on our list as soon as we can. Estonia has so much to offer!

Hey Maggie. Thanks for the awesome article! Im currently in Amsterdam (Hague now actually) but leaving from Amsterdam. I have around 4,000 Euros saved. Im quite a budget /self cooking/ not into touristy sites but am a semi professional portrait /street photographer.

What route would you recommend? Im super interested in the Baltics,Germany, Italy, Spain, Greece, France, Hungary. I’ve cancelled Scandinavia as too expensive as its much too expensive.

is 4,000 Euros enough for 1-3 days I each of the main cities in those countries? Lyon(France), Dresden, Ansbach, Berlin, Santorini, Prague, Budapest, Andalusia/Grenada/Madrid/Barcelona, Milan/Sicily.

Im trying to get some online web design work / Couchsurfing as much as possible.

Whats your advice please? This is the first time ive left New Zealand -my home. I really want to do as many countries as possible before 2020 hits.

Many thanks! Love your blog

Hi Aly, it really depends on your interests which route you should take. It sounds like you want to hit a lot of places in Europe, so I would recommend that you go where the road takes you. As per budgeting, it depends on how long you plan to travel for, but I think that €4000 should be plenty for at least a couple of months of travelling on the cheap. If you want a better idea on prices, check out our backpacking budget article here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/cost-of-backpacking-europe/ Hope this helps and you have an amazing time!

hey, if you backpack in Budapest, make sure you come and visit Bucharest, Romania too… it’s next to us! 🙂

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Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip to Europe?

Best Suitcases , FASHION , LUGGAGE , TRAVEL

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If you’re traveling carryon only to Europe, you might be wondering which type of travel bag you should bring along. Read on to see whether a backpack, wheeled suitcase or even a hybrid is best for your travel adventure!

Backpack or Suitcase: What’s the Best Luggage for Traveling to Europe ?

Table of contents.

When it comes to Europe , everything tends to be a little bit smaller. Overhead bins on flights to Europe are notoriously quite small, so you’ll want to keep those size restrictions in mind when choosing your luggage. 

You’re also likely to be trekking with your luggage through train and subway stations, across cobblestone streets, and up and down stairs. 

Where you’re going and what you’ll be doing is crucial in determining which luggage is best for you. If you’re planning to hike from one town in the Alps to the next, you probably won’t want to be pulling a rolling bag on top of steep hills. 

Or, if you have some layovers on your next trip to Paris , you may want to consider how you’ll feel waiting in long security lines and ticket counters with a very heavy pack on your back and having to take it on and off multiple times.

If you need more ideas on what luggage to choose for Europe, these articles might be helpful:  

• Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling Europe
• Best Under Seat Luggage
• Best International Carry On Luggage
• Hardside vs. Softside Luggage: Pros and Cons
• Best Checked Luggage 

Overall, the best carry-on luggage for Europe is versatile, comfortable, and able to carry all your essentials. Take a look at some pros and cons of different types of luggage below, and see which option might best suit your exciting European trip! 

Backpack for Europe

Osprey Fairpoint 55

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Backpack for Europe?

• Frees your hands – Keeps your hands free so you can open and read a map, take pictures, eat or drink, etc.
• Stability – Evenly distributes weight on your back and gives you steadiness.
• With you at all times – With it being strapped to your back, you have less of a chance of leaving it at the train station while you’re waiting for your ride.
• Outdoors – If you are planning on doing a lot of walking or hiking with your luggage, this is by far the best option.
• Weight – It can be very heavy, and if you’re standing for long periods of time, you can get tired more quickly. Although this is great for hiking, it may not be great for hours of travel at the airport while waiting in long security and ticket counter lines.
• Less accessibility – Harder to get in and out of when you’re on the go. You will have to find a place to stop and unzip your bag to get something out.
• Theft – With the size of these bags, at times it might be easier for a pick-pocket to unzip your bag without you being able to feel it.
• Shoulders – Although it frees your hands up, it takes up valuable shoulder space which you may use if you also have a purse or small camera bag. Adding a crossbody bag while you’re already carrying a backpack can add weight that doesn’t distribute itself evenly.

Readers voted on the best travel backpack for Europe . Here are their top picks:

Osprey Porter 46 Travel Backpack

Osprey Porter 46 Backpack Europe Carry On

The Osprey Porter 46 is great for travelers who want to travel carry-on only and stay super organized. This backpack features a ton of easy-to-access compartments that make packing a breeze, including a lockable laptop back panel, a top compartment for easy access to your toiletries, and even a pocket to store your travel documents!

The Porter 46 is built specifically to be carry-on compatible, and travelers report having no issues storing this in the cabin of their plane, even on flights to Europe! Many readers say it’s the best backpack for traveling Europe .

One reader shares, “I can access all of my creature comforts without opening up the main part of my bag. My Porter also has compression straps that keep the bag streamlined for storing under the seat in front of me. It’s much more than just a backpack!”

Gregory 45L Travel Backpack

Gregory 45L Maven Backpack for Traveling Europe

This Gregory Maven 45L Backpack for travel in Europe is a highly recommended pick! It’s seriously durable and spacious, yet only weighs 3.2 lbs. The fit of this backpack is outstanding, and users absolutely rave about how comfortable it is due to the suspension, lower back cradle, and breathable foam upper panel! 

It’s loaded with handy pockets and organizational features, plus it features a waterproof cover to keep your belongings safe, rain or shine! Available on Amazon and REI . 

A traveler says, “​​Really like the lightweight and comfortable fit of Gregory Maven packs. It’s streamlined but still holds a lot and fits well with minimal adjustment.”

F.A.R Convertible Backpack

F.A.R 45L Convertible Carry On Backpack for Europe Travel

The F.A.R 45L convertible backpack by Away is a simple and super functional backpack for traveling through Europe or anyone who wants to travel with one bag only . It looks and carries like a backpack, but packs like a suitcase, which travelers love! It’s spacious and can fit a good amount of clothing (especially with packing cubes), while still meeting carry-on restrictions. 

This versatile backpack has dual interior and exterior compression systems that help you pack more in and multiple pockets systems that securely stash valuables and keep them within reach. Made to work for long-distance travel and weighs a mere 3.32 lbs, convert the removable padded straps into a backpack or duffle anytime, and use the chest strap when in backpack mode for a more supported carry.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Europe Backpack

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L makes the perfect travel backpack for Europe. It’s lightweight, at just over 3 lbs, and has so many practical features! It’s spacious, with plenty of compartments, and a laptop sleeve. The pack also has foam padding, carabiner lash loops, and tuck-away straps with 4 reinforced grab handles. Also includes a rain cover and a removable waist belt!

Users love how comfortable this bag is. The women-specific suspension and the adjustable shoulder straps are padded and breathable to make things more comfortable! Available at REI , Backcountry , and Amazon . 

One user says, “Bought this backpack for a Europe trip and it’s been great so far. It sits nicely on my back and hips and is very comfortable. It’s amazing the amount of stuff you can get there when you pack right!”

Arc’teryx Aerios 45L Backpack

Arc’teryx Aerios 45L Backpack for Traveling in Europe

The Arc’teryx Aerios 45L is a sleek and cool-looking Europe travel backpack that’s also super practical and makes a great carry on. It’s spacious, and can fit so much inside! This pack is amazing for any type of European travel, whether it’s exploring an urban city or hiking through the countryside!  

The material is durable and protective, and users report that it feels super snug and comfortable to wear, even after long periods of time. It’s also lightweight! 

One traveler says, “Very comfortable to wear, even with a heavy load. The back opens very easily and I like the pockets at the hip and the sides!” No wonder adventurers feel Arc’teryx makes the best backpack to travel Europe !

Discover the best ultralight backpacks and add one to your shopping list!

Spinner Luggage for Europe

  TravelPro Maxlite 5 Softside Suitcase

What Are the Pros and Cons of Spinner Luggage for Europe?

• Lightweight – You can pull your bag with ease when it’s on rollers without much effort.
• Accessibility – You can get things in and out of it very quickly. For example, when you’re going through security, you can pop it up on the belt, unzip the top, and pull out your toiletries within seconds.
• Organization – With a well-structured rectangle shape, you can keep your packing cubes nice and orderly and they’ll keep their shape well. 
• Multiple bags – You can carry a shoulder bag on your shoulder, or even put it on top of your suitcase, thus freeing your back and shoulders from any weight.
• Public transportation – Steps are hard with a suitcase. If you’re going on the subway or bus, you’ll have to be able to pick up your bag and carry it with you. So, although it’s light when you’re rolling it, it can get heavy when you have to carry it up flights of stairs.
• Less hands – With only one hand, it can be problematic to carry a cup of coffee and then open a door.
• Snagging – Let’s face it; we’ve all had someone roll their bag over our feet while they’re trying to get it through the airplane aisles. It can be hard to navigate the rolling bag through the tight spaces of Europe and over uneven terrain like cobblestone streets.
• Less control – If you stop rolling it to do something, you could easily forget it. There’s also the possibility of it rolling away from you (unlike a purse or backpack which is strapped to you).

Here is the most popular spinner luggage for traveling to Europe that our readers swear by:

Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside

Delsey Paris Helium Aero 19” 4-Wheel Spinner for Europe

The Delsey Helium Aero 19” will have you gliding down any terrain with ease! The spinner wheels make for a smooth ride, and it’s very lightweight yet spacious. It can also expand up to 2” for extra packing space, and the zippers have an easy, one-button locking system. 

The durable, scratch-resistant cover will ensure it looks just as good off the plane as it did getting on! And it weighs a fairly light 8.4 lbs!

One reader who has this suitcase says, “We have the Delsey Helium Aero and love it. It seems to be indestructible, carries a ridiculous amount, and the compression zipper setup is fantastic. I like that each side is packed independently.”

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner Luggage

Samsonite Omni 20” Spinner Suitcase for European Travel

Many readers report that the Samsonite’s Omni 20” suitcase has been perfect for their travels to Europe. It has 360-degree spinner wheels and only weighs 6.8 lbs. The scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell will hold up to all the rigors of travel, and users rave about the security of the TSA zipper locks! 

One traveler reports, “ Suitcase held up perfectly over four 4-hour flights over the holidays, on two of which it actually had to be checked because the flight was very full. Not a single scratch or dent, no signs of wear, and it was easy to travel with—rolled smoothly and easily and has a sturdy handle.”

Travelpro Platinum Elite 19” Spinner Luggage

Travelpro Platinum Elite 19” Expandable Spinner Europe Suitcase

The  Platinum Elite 19” Suitcase has some incredible features, and it definitely doesn’t sacrifice on style, either! This sleek and sophisticated beauty rolls effortlessly, and the leather top and side handles allow for easy carrying. The external USB port is very handy, and readers say the interior organization is a dream! 

One reader shares, “ I was planning 12 days in Italy and wanted to do it with one carryon. I did some research and this bag looked like it might be the answer. What a great decision on my part! You can pack a lot in it and it has outside pockets for the stuff you need to access quickly. It’s the perfect size to fit in and out of various overhead compartments. Spinners are great. The handles are amazing. I highly recommend it.”

Read this Travelpro Maxlite 5 review to find out if this popular brand makes the cut!

Samsonite Winfield 2 20” Hardside Luggage

Samsonite Winfield 2 20” Hardside Luggage for Europe Travel

TFG readers love Samsonite suitcases, and the Winfield 2 20’ is a top pick, especially for international travel! This gem is light, weighing just over 6.5 lbs, and readers applaud its durability and stability, even over years of wear and tear! 

The interior divider zips fully so nothing will fall out when you open it, and the outer zippers feature TSA locks for safety. 

A traveler says, “Made it from US to Italy, over many cobblestones, on trains, planes, taxis, walking through cities, bumpy sidewalks/roads. Held up nicely. It fits perfectly in the carryon above head storage on both domestic and international flights. And it fits in the overhead storage compartments of the Italian trains too.” 

Rockland Pasadena Spinner Luggage

Rockland Pasadena 20” Softside Carryon for Europe

This Rockland Pasadena 20” is a solid economical option and has everything you could want in a carryon! The sturdy handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and at 7 lbs . it’s really easy to lift and carry. 

It’s quite packable for its size, and the handy exterior pockets are a bonus! This cutie will fit in almost any overhead compartment. A traveler agrees, “Survived three weeks across all the cobblestones in Spain , Italy , France , and Greece . Perfect size for the small European airlines to take as carryon.” It comes in a variety of colors, so pick your favorite!

Discover the best luggage brands for travel and why they love them!

Rolling Luggage for Europe

High Sierra Freewheel Wheeled Backpack

What Are the Pros and Cons of Hybrid Luggage for Europe?

• Versatility – You’ll have the option of carrying your bag on your back when there’s uneven terrain or when you need your hands free, and then have the option to give your back a rest and roll it along whenever you need to.  
• Faster travel – With two carrying options, you can choose which is best at any given time to zip through an airport or trek through crowded streets and get to where you’re going faster! 
• Durability – While there are only two wheels, they’re actually much more durable because they don’t allow for as much movement as spinner wheels so they can handle steps and bumpy roads with no issues. Plus, there’s no danger of it rolling away like spinner suitcases can! 
• Packability – You can pack and access your belongings much easier with a rolling bag because the zippers often open more like a suitcase. They’re often much easier to live out of than a backpack. 
• Not as comfortable – Rolling bags tend to be a lot less comfortable than your standard backpack. The hard base and wheels can hurt your back after a while, whereas travel backpacks have an ergonomic fit. 
• Maneuverability – Rolling bags have two wheels and need to be pulled at a 45-degree angle, so there’s less maneuverability, and it can put a strain on your wrist at times.  
• Heavier – Rolling bags tend to be a few pounds heavier than travel backpacks with the added wheels, hard frame, and other features. 
• Less capacity – The wheels and straps take away some of the packing capacity, so they’re often less roomy than standard backpacks or suitcases. 

Here are some of the best wheeled backpack for Europe travel options:  

Osprey Farpoint 65L Wheeled Luggage

Osprey Farpoint 65 L 27.5″ Wheeled Backpack Luggage for Europe

The Osprey Farpoint 27.5” Luggage is a top choice for a hybrid suitcase if you’re looking for a little luxury and some wheels in your pack! It has plenty of space for packing and weighs only 6.174 lbs. 

The Farpoint offers great organizational features: a large front-panel opening makes quick and easy work out of packing and unpacking, while internal compression makes sure everything stays in place until you reach paradise.

Compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack or Daylite for streamlined outings that call for your laptop and a few other essentials.

An intrepid user says, “Amazing bag, super easy to get around on cobblestone streets, curbs, boat ramps, and huge crowded airports, all thanks to the wheels.”

Looking for an alternative luggage option that still has wheels? Here are our readers’ picks for lightweight rolling duffel bags !

Osprey Fairview 65 Women’s Wheeled Luggage

Osprey Fairview 65 Wheeled Luggage for Multi-Days in Europe

The Osprey Fairview 65 is a slightly larger option that will have you covered for both short and long European getaways! The front panel opening makes it super easy to pack, just like a suitcase, and the sturdy wheels are smooth and can handle rough terrain. 

Users appreciate the lightweight suspension, harness, and hip belt that make carrying this bag feel stable and comfortable. It features interior, zippered pockets for organization, and is lightweight at 6.2 lbs! 

An owner of this bag shares, “I’ve owned a lot of Osprey bags and have always been a big fan. This bag is perfect for traveling. Not too big, but not too small. It’s also very lightweight without compromising the quality.”

Osprey Transporter 4 Wheel Hybrid Carry On

Osprey Transporter 22” Hybrid Carry On Luggage for Europe

The Osprey Transporter 22” is a globally accepted carry on size, so it’s a perfect pick for European travels, and TFG readers love it! This bag is a hybrid between a softside and hardside suitcase, so it has the protection and durability of a hardshell, with the wiggle room and single opening of a softside! 

It weighs just 6.5 lbs, and readers report that it’s super packable, easy to maneuver, and durable. One user shares, “Perfect carryon bag. The case is very light, yet stable, and easy to load in overhead bins, even in smaller regional jets. It’s very easy to maneuver in airplane aisles, and crowded airports, especially when dashing for a connecting flight, and sturdy enough to serve as a footstool during long lay-overs.” 

Here are the most popular Europe travel bag styles according to our readers along with their tried and tested reviews!

Best Luggage for Traveling to Europe Comparison Chart

Apple AirTags

Luggage Tags

A super practical addition to your new suitcase is a luggage tag! TFG readers have been raving about luggage tags, and highly recommend them for every trip. 

Luggage tags are handy little trackers that you attach to your belongings and then track through an app on your phone. The most popular option in the TFG community is Apple Airtags , which hooks up to the Find My iPhone app so you can see where your item is in real time. Readers say they’ve been lifesavers in finding lost luggage in an airport! 

For non-iPhone users, readers recommend the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag and the TilePro , which are compatible with Android devices, and the TilePro also works for iOS. 

Luggage tags are not only handy for your luggage but for your purse, keys, wallet, or even your parked car. You can enjoy your vacation with the utmost peace of mind!

What kind of bag is your favorite? Are you a die-hard suitcase or rolling bag fan? Or do you only bring a backpack for Europe ?

For more ideas on suitcases and backpacks, please read:

• Suitcase 101: How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage
• Suitcase Recommendations: Travel Experts Reveal Top Luggage Brands  
• Experts Reveal the Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling Europe  
• Best Lightweight Luggage Under 5lb: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees   

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We hope you liked this post on the best luggage for traveling in Europe . Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

19 comments.

We just ordered the Osprey backpack for upcoming trip to Italy and we plan to do three day capsule wardrobe that we will reuse for the entire 10 days that were there. I will come back and let you know how it fared!

Can’t wait to hear how it goes, have a brilliant time on your travels!

Thank you for all of these suggestions! Still trying to decide if backpack or rolling bag is right for me. This informs some of my questions.

I love my Cotopaxi Allpa backpack.

You hit the nail on head regarding pros and cons. Depending on destination, length of time and activity, I switch between My Osprey 30L, my Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, and a super light G4Free 40L Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack. For my latest 4 week trip I am taking a Travelpro Maxlite roller bag. They are all functional and I love them all! I am 58, so I have to be careful about weight in the backpacks. It is uncomfortable to carry a heavy backpack, but you can’t beat the hands free feature.

We have decided to pack in backpacks since we will be traveling to a lot of different places. We are planning on checking them as luggage. I don’t know what to carry on to the plane though. It needs to be big enough for my laptop, but it can’t be a backpack since that’s what I’ll be carrying on my back!? Any suggestions for what to use?

Hi Karin, here are some factors to consider when choosing the right personal item for your travels: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/carry-on-personal-item/

Here are some popular options for totes that our readers recommended as being great for travel: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-bags-with-trolley-sleeve/

Or since you’ll be checking your backpacks, would you consider a personal item with wheels, here are our readers go-to options: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-under-seat-luggage/

I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Hope this helps. Have the most amazing time on your travels!

Thank you for this article! It summerized things so well and helped my husband (yes ladies, men read these blogs too and thank goodness they do!) pick a new carryon (he went with the TravelPro). Thanks as always, TFG!

This was very informative. I’m going to give a backpack a try!

I am going to Italy in May 2023 and have been pouring over all articles related to travel. I think I’m leaning towards a backpack so I can have my hands available to help my mother.

I enjoy Osprey backpacks as carry on bags. They are spacious and smartly designed.

I have to have luggage. Mad skills to carry just a backpack!

I just returned from 3 weeks in the UK and, thanks to TFG, I used a backpack for the first time for my entire trip. It worked so well getting off and on trains efficiently! I used Ebags Motherload and was super happy with it! All these other backpacks look great too. 🙂

I love the dual version like the Osprey Meridian Wheeled Luggage, I like options a don’t like to commit to one style.

It’s nice to have options 🙂

I love the Eagle Creek Lync rolling backpacks. They have removable frames and backpack straps, so you can use them as rolling luggage or as a backpack.

Good choice Heather!

I prefer backpacks but I use the Von Baer Libert Women’s Leather Backpack. I love the feel of the genuine leather as well as the space it provides.

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Backpacking Europe Essentials: The Ultimate Europe Packing List

Are you planning your first European backpacking travel adventure? Packing for a trip can be exciting but stressful, especially if you don’t know what to bring. Whether you’re going for a week or for an entire summer, there are a few backpacking Europe essentials for your packing list. To help you get started, take a look at our backpacking Europe checklist, which will ensure you have everything you need for your trip. 

1. The Right Backpack

The right backpacking can make or break your trip. A backpack that’s too big can make traveling uncomfortable, while a backpack that’s too small won’t allow you to fit all your belongings in it. 

When backpacking Europe , you won’t want to bring a large, rolling suitcase. European cities were built before the age of elevators, which means that you’ll be walking lots of stairs. When navigating the metro, the old buildings, and the hotels , you’ll be happy to be able to take the stairs instead of lugging around an unwieldy backpack.

When it comes to essentials for your backpacking Europe packing list, it’s best to bring a carry-on sized backpack to avoid baggage fees on budget airlines. A carry-on sized backpack will also be small enough to keep nearby if you’re taking a bus or train tour in Europe .

Backpacking backpacks come in sizes based on the liter volume that they can carry. A 30-40 liter bag is comparable to a carry-on size suitcase, while a bag that’s 50-65 liters will be too big to take with you as a carry on.

Make sure you choose a bag that fits comfortably on your body. If you’re visiting a store, the employees will be more than happy to help you select a few bags that are suited to your body size. 

If you’re looking for the best backpack for backpacking Europe, the Osprey brand has some great all-rounder backpacks. Osprey is the go-to essential Europe backpacking option and fits most people comfortably. 

• Carry-on Sized Backpack for Women: Osprey Fairview 40L
• Carry-on Sized Backpacking for Men: Osprey Farpoint 40L
• Larger Women’s Backpack: Osprey Ariel 65L
• Larger Men’s Backpack: Osprey Atmos 65L

When you’re taking a day trip or going on a hike, you won’t want to bring your huge backpack with you. Leave most of your items locked safely at your accommodation and take along a day bag. Your best bet would be to purchase a foldable daypack that can fit into your bigger backpack.

It will need to fit essentials such as money, a snack, water, and maybe a change of clothes, so it shouldn’t be too big or bulky.

3. Padlocks

Padlocks are a quick, convenient, and inexpensive way to secure your bags and hostel lockers. When assembling your backpacking Europe essentials for your packing list, a small item like this can be a lifesaver!   You can also use your luggage lock on your backpack during travel days, ensuring all your belongings are safe, including your passport.

4. Universal travel adapter

Your Europe backpacking packing list should include a universal travel adapter , which will work for your phone charger or any other electronic devices. 

The outlets in continental Europe use the same 2-pronged plug, but if you’re traveling in the UK and Ireland, you’ll need a different 3-pronged system. Rather than taking multiple chargers with you, a multifunctional adapter will do. 

Your phone camera is sufficient for everyday life, but backpacking around the world is an incredible experience that you will never want to forget!

Your travel photos will prove invaluable once you return from your epic journey, so be sure to capture all the incredible things you encounter along the way. Bring a camera that not only takes great pictures but also fits easily into your backpack.

These days, the majority of cameras are equipped with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities, so they can be transmitted easily to your laptop or phone to post them online.

You may wish to bring a high-tech DSLR camera to take stunning photographs.

I f you want to take your backpacking adventures to the next level, then consider bringing along a waterproof GoPro , which will accompany you everywhere from underwater adventures to skydiving during your European backpacking adventures.

6. Travel towel

Your essential backpacking Europe packing list should include a quick-drying travel towel, since you will be moving from hostel to hostel as you backpack between cities. My favorite travel towel is a Turkish towel which is quick to dry and easy to fit in your backpack. You can also use the towel as a privacy screen if you secure a bottom bunk in a hostel.

7. Power Bank

A power bank is one of the essentials on my backpacking Europe packing list, for multiple reasons. While traveling, you’ll be using your phone much more than normal – for navigation, taking photos, videos, or researching travel tips. On days like this, you’ll want to have a backup battery for your phone. 

I’ve also relied on my power bank during long travel journeys when I use my phone and want to make sure I have enough juice to find my way to the next destination.

8. Change purse

Reliance on physical money is surprisingly still pretty high throughout Europe. Plus, having lots of €1 and €2 Euro coins is a good idea if you want to leave behind tips or donate to street musicians that you’ll see on your trip. 

9. The right shoes

For your backpacking Europe packing list, don’t forget to throw in a pair of rubber sandals for the hostel showers. You should also bring a pair of c omfortable but stylish walking shoes. Some nightlife spots will require a certain dress code, but you can get away with leather-style sneakers. And women can get away with stylish-looking flats that are secretly super comfortable.

10. Hostel survival kit

If you’ll be staying in hostels , don’t forget these 4 backpacking Europe essentials. We call it the hostel survival kit:

• Silk Sleeping Liner
• Extra-long charging cable for your phone

11. The Best Apps for Backpacking Europe

And lastly, before heading off for your European backpacking adventure, you should load up your phone with a few essential apps that will make backpacking Europe a breeze.

Apps to book transportation from place to place

Given the relatively compact size of Europe, you can travel between major cities by train  or bus . There are a few useful apps for European transportation that can help make sure you find the best deal while sticking to your schedule.

• Omio – compare trains, buses, and flight options in Europe and travel using mobile tickets
• Trainline – a popular app in the UK to find train and bus tickets 
• Flixbus – a long-distance bus company that is a favorite mode of travel for budget backpackers
• Kiwi – a flight search comparison site that helps you find the lowest prices
• Skyscanner – another classic flight search website that has powerful flexible search options
• DiscoverCars – car rental search engine with direct booking to 500+ suppliers

Apps for Finding Accommodation in Europe

• Booking.com
• Hostelworld.com

Apps to book discounted activities and Skip the Line tickets

• Get Your Guide

Apps to stay in touch with friends and family back home

If you don’t want to change to an international mobile plan , you can use these apps over free public WiFi to stay in touch with people back home.

About the author

Monica Woerner

Monica is an avid traveler and backpacker who seeks to inspire others to embark on great adventures off the beaten path. Originally from California, she has travelled to over 60 countries, most of which she explored while backpacking or camping.

• Monica Woerner #molongui-disabled-link 3 Days in Berlin - an Insider's Guide to See It All
• Monica Woerner #molongui-disabled-link How to Travel the USA by RV - Expert Tips & Itineraries
• Monica Woerner #molongui-disabled-link Backpacking in India - Our 2 Week Route
• Monica Woerner #molongui-disabled-link My Field-Tested Packing List for a Safari in Tanzania

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

Backpacking Europe | Our Epic Step-by-Step Travel Planning Guide

An easy guide to budget travel in Europe.

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I created this step-by-step travel guide to prove that planning budget travel doesn’t have to be daunting — whether you’re backpacking through Europe or just a budget-minded independent traveler.

This guide is broken down into different phases of the planning process:

• Initial Trip Planning
• Budgeting and Money
• Packing Lists and Advice
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Travel Gear and Travel Services Recommendations
• More Helpful Travel Tips

Under each phase, you will find links to our most important travel articles — I suggest reading through each one. If you follow these steps you’ll be prepared to have an amazing trip to Europe.

Note: You can find even more information on this website’s the top menu.

PHASE ONE: Initial Trip Planning

These are the first steps to take when planning your trip to backpack Europe. Here you’ll start planning what cities and countries to visit, create a travel itinerary, estimate your travel costs, book your flight, and a range of other things.

You’ll probably spend a large amount of time on this phase  — especially the itinerary planning.

Europe Itinerary Planning and Travel Logistics  

How To Create a Europe Travel Itinerary that fits your travel style, travel goals, and budget.

I’ve also put together some sample itineraries to help give some ideas of places you might want to visit:

• Best Of Europe Mega Trip Itinerary (Travel Time: 8-10+ weeks)
• Eastern Europe MegaTrip Itinerary (Travel Time: 6-10 Weeks)
• Gateway to Eastern Europe Travel Itinerary (Travel Time: 2-4 Weeks)
• Our Most Important Tip for First-Time Travelers: Slow Down
• The Most Visited Cities in Europe

Choosing Travel Insurance

I recommend buying travel insurance for your trip to protect against any unforeseen travel mishaps. Here are some Tips For Choosing Travel Insurance .

The Savvy Backpacker’s City Travel Guides

Discover practical travel information, must-see sights, where to eat, how much to budget, public transportation tips, where to stay, and more about more than 20 of Europe’s Most Iconic Cities :

• Amsterdam Travel Guide
• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Berlin Travel Guide
• Florence Travel Guide
• London Travel Guide
• Paris Travel Guide
• Rome Travel Guide
• Seville Travel Guide
• SEE TRAVEL GUIDES FOR MULTIPLE OTHER CITIES

Related:  The Best Party Cities in Europe

Finding Cheap Airfare to Europe

Your plane ticket to Europe is one of your greatest expenses. Here’s our Guide To Finding Cheap Flights To Europe .

Best Travel Guidebooks and Online Resources

From Lonely Planet and Rick Steves’ guidebooks to Wikitravel and TripAdvisor, there is a wealth of information to help you choose what to do and see. I review My Favorite Online Travel Resources .

Choosing Travel Seasons

The summer might be the busiest travel season but Europe is a great place to visit year-round. We’ve listed the positives and negatives of traveling during each season .

Pre-Departure Travel Advice

Before you head off to Europe be sure to check out this Pre-Departure Travel Checklist  so you don’t overlook any small, but important, details.

Get an Affordable High-Speed Mobile Data Plan For Your Phone

Having fast and reliable mobile data for your smartphone is a requirement these days. Check out my guide on  how to use your phone in Europe  and our guide to  the best SIM Cards and Data Plans for Europe .

If you have a newer phone, check out our guide to the best Prepaid eSIM Data Plans for Europe .

Frequently Asked Travel Questions

I get sent a lot of questions about traveling in Europe that don’t warrant their own article — so I made a Mega-List Of Random Travel Questions .

Phase Two: Budgeting and Money

Let’s dive into the million-dollar question… how much does it cost to travel through Europe? Below are some helpful articles to help you estimate how much money you’ll need to backpack Europe on a budget.

I also cover various topics like using ATMs and credit cards, exchanging currency, and other money-related issues.

Estimating Your Travel Costs

Here’s a high-level guide to estimating How Much It Costs To Backpack Europe on a budget. I break down the average cost of food, alcohol, accommodation, sightseeing, transportation, pre-trip travel expenses, and other common expenses.

City Price Guides

I’ve created In-Depth City Price Guides that cover travel costs for 30+ cities in Europe. Each city guide includes average prices for food, accommodation, sightseeing, and more.

Using Your Money in Europe

Everything you need to know about exchange rates, using ATMs, using debit/credit cards, avoiding/minimizing foreign transaction fees, and more. Check out our Guide To Using Money While Traveling In Europe and our Guide To Using Credit Cards and Debit Cards in Europe .

Daily Money-Saving Strategies

Here are some Simple Money-Saving Europe Travel Tips you can do every day to save money while traveling. Here’s our  Guide To Eating On A Budget While Traveling Europe for more money-saving tips.

Phase Three: Packing Advice & Travel Gear

Packing for travel in Europe can be confusing and frustrating — especially if you’re backpacking across Europe or just trying to pack light. These guides will help you choose what clothes and travel accessories to pack and have advice on packing light.

Europe Travel Packing Lists

I’ve written numerous packing lists for multiple travel styles. Each article covers functional and fashionable clothes for traveling through Europe, helpful travel accessories, toiletries, electronics, and what items you should leave behind.  Check them out!

• Backpacking Europe Packing List (for Men)
• Backpacking Europe Packing List (for Women)
• Europe Packing List (general packing list that’s not solely “backpacking” focused)
• Ultralight Travel Packing List  (taking traveling light to the next level)
• Winter Europe Packing List
• Skincare, Makeup, and Beauty Essentials For Travel

The Best Travel Backpacks

I love travel backpacks and we’ve personally tested well over a dozen of the most popular backpacks. Here’s a list of the Best Travel Backpacks (Updated For 2022). Be sure to check out our Best Travel Backpacks for Women as well.

I’ve also compiled a list of the Best Carry-On Backpacks if you’re traveling light (which is highly recommended).

Related Article: Things to look for when buying a travel backpack & best travel backpacks for Europe (slightly old but still solid information).

Travel Gear Buyers Guides

I’ve reviewed a lot of travel products over the years. Here are a few of our most popular travel gear guides:

Travel Footwear

• Best Travel Shoes For Women
• Best Travel Shoes for Men
• Waterproof Boots for Women
• Waterproof Boots for Men

Travel Clothing

• Best Travel Underwear
• Best Travel Socks
• Guide To Finding Fashionable Travel Clothes

Travel Electronics

• Using Prepaid Data Plans and Smart Phones in Europe
• How To Buy A SIM Card In Europe
• Guide to Using Your Electronics in Europe
• The Best Travel Apps

Travel Aids

• Best Daypacks for Travel
• Best Packing Cubes

How To Not Look Like A Tourist

It’s not always easy to stay fashionable while also living out of a backpack or suitcase. Here are some tips for not looking like a tourist.

• Female Travel Fashion Advice
• Male Travel Fashion Advice

Travel Packing and Organization Strategies

Living out of a suitcase or backpack does pose a few challenges. Here are some Travel Packing Strategies to help you efficiently organize your travel gear and prevent wrinkles in your clothing.

Related: Tips for using Packing Cubes .

Backpack Vs Suitcase

Do you need a backpack for traveling around Europe? Of course not. Plenty of people use suitcases. Here are some Tips For Determining Your Luggage Style .

Winter Travel Packing Tips

Winter travel is great but you need to know how to dress properly for the cold. Check out our Guide To Dressing For Winter In Europe for tips on dressing in layers to keep you warm and dry without wearing a lot of bulky clothes. Also, see our Winter Europe Packing List  for some of our favorite winter gear.

Phase Four: Hostels, Hotels, Rental Apartments & Other Accommodation

Accommodation is one of your biggest expenses. In this section, I’ll focus on hostels, rental apartments, and Couchsurfing.

Guide to European Hostels

Curious about staying in hostels while traveling in Europe? Check out our Guide To Hostels In Europe — it covers everything you’ve ever wanted to know about staying in hostels and how to pick the perfect hostel for your travel style.

Also, check out this handy Guide To Hostel Etiquette .

Europe’s Best Hostels

Europe has a ton of amazing hostels. We’ve listed a few of the best hostels in Europe’s most popular cities.

• Amsterdam’s Best Hostels
• Barcelona’s Best Hostels
• Berlin’s Best Hostels
• Budapest’s Best Hostels
• Dublin’s Best Hostels
• Edinburgh’s Best Hostels
• Florence’s Best Hostels
• London’s Best Hostels
• Madrid’s Best Hostels
• Milan’s Best Hostels
• Paris’ Best Hostels
• Prague’s Best Hostels
• Rome’s Best Hostels

See The Full List Of Europe’s Best Hostels By City

Couchsurfing in Europe

Couchsurfing is a super popular way to experience Europe, save money on accommodation, and meet friendly locals. Here’s our Guide to Couchsurfing in Europe .

Short-Term Apartment Rentals & Airbnb

Short-term apartment rentals — especially Airbnb — have exploded in Europe and it’s one of my favorite ways to experience Europe’s cities. But picking the perfect apartment can be a little tricky. Here’s my Guide To Renting Airbnb & Vacation Apartments In Europe .

Related: Airbnb Review: Why It’s Our Top Choice for Rental Apartments

Phase Five: Trains, Flights, and Other Transportation in Europe

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles!

Europe has a great transportation network, making it incredibly easy to zip from city to city and country to country. The hardest part is choosing which method is right for your travel style and budget.

In this section, I cover each major transportation option system and give tips on finding the best deals.

Complete Guide to Train Travel in Europe

Traveling by train is the best way to get around Europe. Check out my Guide To Train Travel in Europe  to learn the ins and outs of European rail travel.

We’ve also written in-depth guides about country-specific train travel and how to score the cheapest tickets:

• Belgium  Train Guide
• England  Train Guide
• France  Train Guide
• Germany  Train Guide
• Italy  Train Guide
• Netherlands  Train Guide
• Portugal  Train Guide
• Spain  Train Guide
• Switzerland  Train Guide

How To Purchase Train Tickets

There are a number of ways to purchase train tickets — from at the station to online. Read our Guide to Buying European Train Tickets to learn about the different kinds of train tickets and ways to get the best price.

Eurail Pass Explained

Many travelers purchase a Eurail Pass to explore Europe. However, with so many different passes available it can be tough to decide which, if any, rail pass is worth the price. Read my Guide To Eurail Passes to see if a rail pass is right for you.

Budget Air Travel in Europe

Europe is home to multiple budget airlines so it’s not uncommon to find flights within Europe for less than $50. My Guide To Budget Air Travel In Europe will cover how to find the cheapest tickets and help you decide if air travel is right for your trip.

Related: Our Ryanair Survival Guide will help you navigate one of Europe’s most notorious ultra-low-budget air carriers.

Traveling Europe by Car

Exploring Europe by car is a great way to discover smaller towns and villages, but it is a nightmare if you plan on only visiting large cities. My Guide To Traveling Europe By Car  will cover what to look for when renting a car and tips for navigating Europe’s roads.

What’s Cheaper? Comparing Train vs Plane vs Car

I did a little comparison to find the cheapest way to travel around Europe — check out my findings . By the way, this isn’t a perfect comparison but it’s a good overview.

Bus/Coach Travel in Europe

One of the cheapest methods of travel is via long-distance coach service but it’s also the slowest. Check out our Guide To Long-Distance Coach Travel In Europe to learn more about this option for cash-strapped travelers.

Phase Six: Travel Service Reviews

There are many amazing travel products and services that will make traveling more enjoyable and less stressful — but the choices can be overwhelming. In this section read our reviews on everything from our favorite socks and underwear to backpacks and other travel services.

Airbnb Rental Strategies

Want to live like a local? Try Airbnb. Read our Airbnb Review to see why Airbnb is one of our top choices for finding great places to stay and see our top tips for finding the perfect rental.

Contiki Tour Review

Contiki tours are a popular travel option that thousands of people take each year. Read my Contiki Tour Review to see the good and bad of Contiki Tours and determine if this is a good option for you.

Hostelworld Review

See why Hostelworld is my top choice for finding and booking hostels in Europe. Read my Hostelworld Review and learn the strategies I use to find the best hostels.

Phase Seven: More Helpful Advice For Traveling Europe On A Budget

This section features general travel tips for everything from spotting tourist scams and fashion advice to solo travel pointers and group travel tips.

Avoiding Tourist Scams and Pickpockets

Don’t be one of the many tourists who get ripped off while traveling through Europe. Read our Guide To Pickpockets in Europe and our Guide to Avoiding Common Tourist Scams .

How To Use Data Plans and Smartphones in Europe

Using your smartphone and data plan in Europe can be costly. Read our Guide To Using Smartphones and Data Plans in Europe , How To Buy A SIM Card in Europe , and Guide to the Best eSIMs for Europe to make sure you don’t rack up a huge phone bill.

Solo and Group Travel in Europe

How are you going to travel around Europe — with friends, with your significant other, or maybe you want to travel solo? Check out these articles to help you make the most of your travels.

• How To Travel Solo in Europe
• Advice for Solo Female Travel
• How To Travel Europe with Friends (And Survive)

Using Electronics Abroad

Worried about using your electronics in Europe? Read our Guide To Using Your Electronics in Europe to see what kinds of electronics you can (and can’t) use in Europe.

Travel Styles and Sightseeing Strategies

Here are a few helpful articles to help you get the most out of your day-to-day travels.

• Day-To-Day Sightseeing Strategies
• Simple Money-Saving Tips While Traveling in Europe
• Avoiding Common Travel Mistakes That Are Super Easy To Make
• Why Slow Travel Is The Best Travel

Our Favorite Online Travel Resources

The websites I use to book and plan our travels .

Start Your Own Travel Blog (And How To Make Money)

Learn How To Start A Travel Blog  — My 100% free guide to making your own travel blog and tips for making money to help fund your travels.

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The 7 Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

From weekend trips to long-distance treks, these backpacking backpacks have you covered.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

I’ve been backpacking in various capacities for over a decade from off-the-grid wilderness treks to hostel hopping around Europe. Whether you’re planning to head out for a day trip , an overnight hike, or extended excursion, choosing the right backpacking backpack is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Backpacking backpacks come in a range of designs, from ultralight models for speedy, minimalist hikers to more burly packs suited for lugging heavier loads (or even checking if you're flying).

Besides holding all your equipment, gear, and provisions, a quality pack should be comfortable to carry and fit your frame. When choosing the best backpacking pack for my trips, I consider performance, durability, value, and versatility for different durations and weather conditions. If you’re gearing up for your first backpacking trip or looking to level up with a new pack, check out my favorite options below.

Best Overall

Osprey kestrel 58 pack.

It’s a versatile, full-featured pack made with durable materials that will last for years to come.

This is quite a large and hefty pack that may be too heavy for lighter trips.

For an all-around performer that’s suitable for weekend and long-distance trips in varied climates, the Osprey Kestrel 58 is my top pick along with the women’s specific version: the Osprey Kyte 58L Pack . Osprey backpacks are well-known for their top-notch performance and lasting durability. My first Osprey Kestrel is over a decade old and accompanied me up all 12,244 feet of Indonesia's Mount Rinjani and to every corner of Cambodia during my two-year Peace Corps service. The current model incorporates a revamped back panel: the AirScape system. It offers adjustable torso lengths and breathability while delivering close contact and excellent weight distribution on the lower back. 

The Kestrel’s use of 420-denier nylon in the pack body provides exceptional durability against wear and tear, even compared to other Osprey packs. I love that it’s equipped with a detachable rain cover, and how easy the cover is to pull over even fully loaded packs. There’s plenty of options for storage and organization, too. It has five external pockets, trekking pole holders, and daisy chains for adding more gear. I’m a big fan of packs with multiple access points, and the Kestrel offers easy entry from the top and front. To expand my storage options, I typically make use of the sleeping bag straps to hold dirty clothes on longer trips.

The Details: 420-denier nylon and 500-denier high-tenacity nylon | 4.7-4.9 pounds | Size S/M and L/XL | 58 liters | Waterproof

Best Lightweight

Gossamer gear mariposa 60 backpack.

Gossamer Gear

This ultralight pack offers a frame that moves with your gait and a choice of hip belt design for a tailored fit. 

It’s water-resistant, not waterproof.

When every ounce counts, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is an excellent choice for lightening your load on the trail. With a 60-liter capacity, it delivers an impressive weight to storage ratio of roughly 0.54 ounces per liter. The main compartment is spacious, and there are seven exterior pockets for stashing water bottles and trail essentials. The pack is made with robic nylon, which helps save on weight, but doesn’t offer much for waterproofing. However, this can be resolved by adding Gossamer’s waterproof pack liner .

I love that the modular design allows the Gossamer to be configured for optimal weight and fit preferences (for example, the choice of a straight or curved hip belt). The Mariposa’s hip belt, back padding, and aluminum frame can be removed to make the pack even lighter, though this sacrifices comfort and ability to carry the pack fully loaded. There are also load lifters that work with the frame to relieve pressure on the shoulders, if desired.

The Details: Recycled nylon | 2.1 pounds | Size S-L | 60 liters 

Best for Beginners

Rei co-op trailmade 60 pack.

It’s a highly adjustable pack with comfortable padding and intuitive organization that new and experienced hikers will appreciate. 

The weight is middle of the road for a backpack this size.

The REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack is a user-friendly introduction to backpacking. Dialing in the right fit is essential when backpacking, and REI’s adjustable design makes this a seamless process. REI’s Trailmade collection is focused on more inclusive sizing options and affordability for new hikers and backpackers as well. To that end, the Trailmade 60 Pack is designed with an adjustable back length and a range of hip belt sizes. Both the men’s and women’s packs can fit waists and hips between 32 and 58 inches and the torso length is easily tweaked with a Velcro strap. I appreciate that adjustment directions (and packing tips) are printed on the underside of the top lid for even easier set up. The top-loading compartment is easy to use, and the option to configure a separate compartment for a sleeping bag (or dirty clothes) comes in handy on multi-day trips. I’m also a big fan of how accessible the water bottle holders are while wearing the pack. 

The Details: Recycled nylon | 3.2-3.7 pounds | 60 liters

Best Organization

Deuter aircontact core 65+10l backpack.

Backcountry

It has multiple access points and numerous exterior and interior pockets. 

It only comes in one size.

Having quick and easy access to essential gear saves time and hassle on the trail; not to mention, it makes setting up camp after an arduous day that much easier. The Deuter Aircontact Core Pack 65 + 10 gives backpackers a wealth of storage and functionality (do note that the women’s version of the Aircontact Core is designed as a 60 + 10 backpack). I love that gear can be packed and accessed from the top, front, and bottom of the bag. There’s a total of six exterior pockets, including zippered hip belt pockets, mesh side pockets, front stash pocket, and a zippered top pocket. The pack also features an interior pocket for valuables, trekking pole holders, and hydration system compatibility. While 65 liters of capacity is sufficient for many treks, I appreciate the ease of expanding the collar on the main compartment for an additional 10 liters of storage if needed. Though it only comes in one size, the VariSlide system allows for easy and exact adjustments to your back length for a secure fit. The hip belts and shoulder straps are supportive and adjustable, too, to ensure the pack stays in place

The Details: 235-denier polyamide and 500-denier textured polyamide | 4.9 pounds | One size | Up to 75 liters

Best Ventilation

Gregory katmai 55 pack.

The pack offers excellent air flow and ventilation for staying comfortable on the trail. 

The sturdy frame and full set of features add some weight compared to ultralight models. 

It’s easy to work up a sweat while backpacking — the Gregory Katmai 55 Pack offers top-notch breathability and ventilation when things heat up. The pack is equipped with Gregory’s FreeFloat 360 suspension system — a highly ventilated back panel that conforms to the shape of the lower back while allowing optimal air flow between you and the pack. I appreciate that the ventilated back panel is also treated with Polygiene Stays Fresh Technology to diminish odor-causing bacteria.

I also love that the pack offers inclusive sizing. The S/M fits waists/hips from 25 to 48 inches and torso lengths from 15 to 19 inches, while the M/L goes up to 53 inches for the waist/hips and 22 inches for torso length. The Katmai is a men’s specific pack, but the Gregory Kalmia 50 Pack is a similar model specifically designed for women. 

The Details: 210-denier nylon and 420-denier nylon | 4.6 pounds | Size S/M and M/L | 55 liters | Water-repellent

Best for Heavier Loads

Osprey aether 55 pack.

The customizable fit and suspension system aid in hauling considerably more gear than models of comparable weight and capacity. 

It’s on the heavier side if you don’t intend to make use of its hauling capabilities. 

Whether planning for a longer trek or carrying gear for others, having the option to haul more can be a major plus. The Osprey Aether 55 Pack (or Osprey Ariel 55 Pack for women) boasts an impressive load range of up to 60 pounds (when fully expanded). To handle heftier loads comfortably, the pack employs a close-to-body carry design. This is accomplished with Osprey’s AirScape injection-molded back panel that fits snug to the body, plus adjustable hip belt and torso length and shoulder straps that can be fine-tuned on the trail as needed. As an avid hiker, I appreciate that much of the weight sits on the hip belt and lumbar area to avoid strain in the shoulders.

Multiple access points and numerous loops and pockets make it easy to keep things organized while piling on lots of gear and provisions as well. When fully loaded, the twin compression straps come in handy for balancing weight and keeping gear in place.

The Details: 420HD nylon pack cloth and 210-denier nylon Diamond | 5 pounds | Size S/M, L/XL | 55 liters 

Most Comfortable

Rei co-op flash air 50 pack.

It’s ultra lightweight and adjustable so you can get a tailor-made fit. 

The thin materials may not be as durable as other options. 

For a lightweight backpack that doesn’t offload the pack weight onto your shoulders, we love the Flash Air 50 Pack for both men and women. The pack weighs less than two pounds, making this a great option for thru-hikers, weekend adventurers, and overnight travelers alike. While this pack is quite minimalistic with few pockets, it does have external pouches large enough to hold your water bottle and other essentials.

We love the light nylon fabric, but it is a bit thin and could snag if caught on branches. We also recommend investing in a raincover if you’re heading off on a longer adventure. But overall, the hip belt and ventilated back panel make this pack an overall comfortable option regardless of your hiking destination and style.

The Details: Ripstop nylon | 1.88 pounds for medium | Size S-L | 50 liters for medium

Tips for Buying a Backpacking Backpack

Be sure to find a proper fit.

Features aside, the best backpack is one that fits you well. Your torso length — a measurement that’s likely not top of mind — is a key determining factor in finding a proper fitting backpack . Thankfully, torso lengths are listed with any reputable backpacking backpack. Your torso length is the distance from where your shoulders and neck meet (the C7 vertebra to get technical) to the point of the lower back that’s aligned with your hip bones. 

The fit along the hips and waist is also critical and, thankfully, easier to measure. Simply wrap a tape measure just above where you’d wear a belt to get your hip measurements. While at-home measurements can give a rough idea to narrow your search, trying on a pack is critical before embarking on a trek. Check that the hip belt sits on top of the hips, as this is where most of the pack weight should rest. Shoulder straps should be snug but only carrying a modest amount of weight. If a pack is sitting on the hips correctly and not touching the shoulders, shorten the torso length or change pack size. 

Note that many packs offer some level of adjustability for torso length and hip belts. Extra features like load lifters and sternum straps can enhance the fit but be cautious about over-tightening these to avoid transferring too much weight onto the upper body.

Consider overall weight

The trip duration, weather conditions, and necessary gear will have some bearing on how much you need to pack, but a general rule of thumb is that a backpacking backpack should not exceed 20 percent of your weight when fully packed. To strategize your packing, start with the actual weight of the backpack plus truly essential equipment. Carefully planning out how much water, snacks, and food you should bring is best to avoid unnecessary weight. Typically, food amounts to 1.5-2.5 pounds per day per person, and this weight lessens as the trip goes on.

It can take some trial and error to figure out what gear and equipment is essential for your backpacking style and preferences. After each trip, consider which items you used frequently versus sparingly or not at all to fine-tune your backpacking packing list.

Think about breathability 

A breathable and well-ventilated backpack is important for comfort and reducing sweat on the trail. If your backpacking trip has limited or no access to potable water (such as deserts and arid environments), cutting down on perspiration can make a big difference. Assess the ventilation in the back panel of any backpack when comparing options.

A good size for a hiking pack depends on your needs, but 10-30 liters is fairly standard for day trip packs. For a weekend backpacking trip or thru-hike, consider leveling up to 30-50 liters.

Most backpacking backpacks use an internal frame system. An external frame may come in handy if carrying larger gear that can’t fit within the backpack, while frameless models are popular with ultralight backpackers carrying only the essentials.

Pack denser and heavier items toward the bottom and middle of the backpack for optimal weight distribution with smaller and lighter items on top. Anything you’ll want quick access to on the trail can go in exterior pockets or the top of the backpack.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kevin Brouillard specializes in outdoor gear and apparel. His work has also been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years. Kevin used his backpacking and camping experience to curate this list of the best backpacking backpacks.

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Should You Use a Wheeled Suitcase or a Backpack in Europe?

Traveling in europe with a suitcase, pros of using a suitcase in europe.

• Better for people with back problems.  If you're suffering from back pain, then using a suitcase should be a better option for some European cities, where there aren't too many stairs or cobblestone streets.
• Easier to move around in modern cities. The larger cities in Germany, Scandinavia, UK, and Ireland (and most EU capital cities) are usually very friendly for suitcases because they don't have too many stairs and the sidewalks are usually pretty smooth.
• Less likely to be stolen. If you remember to always keep your suitcase in your eyesight, it's basically impossible for someone to steal something from it, unless they openly threaten you.
• Clothes get fewer wrinkles.  If you're traveling for business and you need a wrinkle-free suit for meetings or trade shows, a backpack probably isn't a smart idea. Instead, you should use a suitcase with non-flexible walls and preferably a dedicated suiter compartment.
• Carry-on restrictions are used up more efficiently.  Carry-ons are usually made to be just below the most common carry-on size restriction 22 x 14 x 9 inches, so you can pack more stuff inside.
• Easy to organize everything in packing cubes.  Suitcases are very easy to pack and unpack, especially if you're using packing cubes. I mean, I get frustrated just imagining finding something packed at the bottom of my backpack.
• Good for hotels.  If you're staying in hotels, and aren't switching between them every other day, then a suitcase is a perfect choice because most hotels have elevators and they're located at easily accessible locations.

Cons of Using a Suitcase in Europe

• Can get stolen if left unattended.  The only instances when suitcases get stolen are when they're left unattended, for instance in a cafe, train, bus, forgotten in your taxi, or stolen from the back seat of your rental car. So make sure to keep an eye on your suitcase at all times and you should be good.
• Bad for stairs and upper compartments. If you want to make the job of lifting your suitcase up to the upper storage compartments in trains, planes, and buses, make sure to get a suitcase with a side handle, as it's much easier to use.
• Hard to move around in older or less-advanced European cities.  If you're traveling to older European cities with very narrow cobblestone streets (France, Spain, Italy, Greece,) or to less-advanced European cities with less-than-ideal sidewalks (most of Eastern Europe,) a backpack might be a better choice. That said, nowadays, the situation isn't that bad anymore, so a backpack isn't really a necessity.
• Harder to follow the carry-on size restrictions. Some cheaper European airlines have very strict carry-on restrictions , which is a bad thing if your suitcase ends up being one inch above the limit.
• Difficult to use if moving between different hotels.  If you'll be constantly moving from one location to another, a suitcase isn't really ideal.
• If a wheel or a handle breaks, you're in a bad situation. Wheels and handles break very commonly on suitcases, especially if it's a cheaper one and if you're using it on rough roads.
• Adds a lot of weight. If your luggage is constantly above the weight limits for airlines, then maybe try using a backpack instead, as they're about two or three times lighter.
• Harder to store in lockers. Most suitcases are slightly oversized to store in hostel lockers or publicly available ones, and it's not like you can just squeeze them inside. If it's too large, you're out of luck.
• Bad for crowded locations. In crowded European cities, especially in the rush hour, getting to your hotel with your luggage on public transport can sometimes be very difficult.

Traveling in Europe With a Backpack

Pros of using a backpack in europe.

• Perfect for people who switch between a lot of hotels.  If you're constantly switching between different hotels, this means that you'll have to walk up all kinds of different stairs, and commute between different hotels, so having a backpack instead of a suitcase is a great advantage.
• Easier to stick to the carry-on size restrictions .  If you get a smaller backpack and avoid overpacking it, the airline staff won't make you check in your backpack.
• Less likely to experience any durability problems.  There's just so much that can break on a suitcase - wheels, handles, the frame itself, e.t.c. Backpacks are usually less likely to break, thus making them a more reliable option.
• Great for older or less-advanced European cities.  Smaller cities in Spain, France, Greece, Italy, or in Eastern Europe usually don't provide that good infrastructure for a wheeled suitcase.
• Great if you're traveling for hiking.  If you're traveling for a long hiking trip, just get a large checked backpack and a smaller foldable daypack for your valuables that fits within your backpack.
• Lightweight.  A lightweight backpack can weigh about 2 lbs, while a similarly-sized lightweight suitcase will weigh about 5 lbs.
• Easy to store in lockers.  Unlike suitcases, backpacks are flexible, which means they'll fit inside most paid public lockers and the lockers in most hostels.

Cons of Using a Backpack in Europe

• Commonly targeted by pocket thieves.  With a backpack, you have to be very careful, because anyone can snatch something from the back pockets when you're distracted. Also, they're commonly stolen in restaurants and public transport if left unattended, even if it's just for a few seconds. Always keep an eye on your backpack.
• Clothes get more wrinkles.  Backpacks are ideal for people who don't care about having a few wrinkles on their clothes.
• Harder to pack and unpack. Compared to suitcases, it's much harder to pack and unpack a backpack. To make it slightly easier, you can use two or three packing cubes for storing your clothing.
• Not always practical if used as a carry-on.  I'd use a backpack as a carry-on, only if I could fit all of my stuff inside and wouldn't have a personal item. You could use a small duffle or tote as your personal item, but I think it defeats the purpose of using a backpack because then it becomes hard to carry both of them at the same time. I'd rather get a carry-on suitcase and a smaller backpack as a personal item.
• Carry-on size restrictions aren't used up efficiently. There are some backpacks that are made in the ideal size to max out the most common 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on size restriction, but most of them aren't in the perfect shape - they're slightly slimmer. That's because if they make the backpack too wide, it will become uncomfortable because it will be placed too far off from your back.
• Bad for people with back problems. If you're getting a backpack for traveling, definitely consider investing in a very comfortable one, like [amazon link="B077H3G5J4" title="the ones from Osprey"] , or else you risk your vacation being ruined by back pain.

Best of Both Worlds - Using a Wheeled Backpack

So which one is better for europe - a backpack or a suitcase, using a single carry-on, using a carry-on and a personal item, using a single checked bag, using a checked bag and a carry-on.