filson travel bags

• Work With Us

Filson Twill Rucksack Review: A Travel Bag for Life

Written by Becca

Updated on April 30th, 2024

I review the Filson Twill Rucksack as a travel backpack to have forever, based on how I feel about the quality materials and design. Also, see what I don’t like about it.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

• What I like about my Twill Rucksack
• What I don’t like
• What I’ve gathered about the benefits of Filson
• Where to buy it

My Filson Twill Rucksack is one of the most timeless travel bags I own. It looks current, yet timeless. It’s built to last, and it’s virtually impossible to damage.

In this review, check out what I like about the Filson Twill Rucksacks, and the things I wish were better. As a note, I’m sharing photos of the original Filson Twill Rucksack (which is discontinued), and the size available now is the “Large Rugged Twill Rucksack,” which has a 33L capacity.

The only thing that is different is the total capacity and volume between these two models. The materials and design is the same.

Let’s get into it, and be sure to check out the photos I took in Manhattan and on my roof in Brooklyn.

Key takeaways from this review

• The Filson Twill Rucksacks are incredibly high-quality backpacks meant to last a lifetime. See what I think of the materials.
• Filson backpacks do not come cheap, and find out if I think this travel bag is worth it for travelers after an exceptionally-crafted backpack.
• See what I think about the unique build of the bag, from the pockets to the zippers.
• Find out where to buy it and explore Filson products.

What I like about my Twill Rucksack

This is a one-of-a-kind backpack, and I treat it as such. Here are a few of the features I appreciate and respect.

The leather straps

I like the thin straps that don’t look overbearing on my narrow shoulders. As you may have noticed in my list of the best travel backpacks for women , where I list the Filson Twill Rucksack as an “honorable mention,” I am nit-picky about straps.

So while I think the straps are a nice width and length, it’s up to you to feel out if you think they’re supportive. They are far from “ergonomic” like you’d find on a backpack from REI, or Deuter, or Patagonia.

Timeless style

This backpack was probably classic in the 90s, and will still be classic in the 2050s. I can’t think of a decade when a timeless style like this one felt outdated or sore. I brought this backpack to my Brooklyn office one day, and a few coworkers even called it out to comment that it was fascinatingly unique.

The buckles, the binding, the zippers, the zipper pulls and the flaps all show style of classic luggage, and that’s what this backpack is: a timeless piece of luggage to have in your collection. To me, the leather and the canvas, coupled with the brass hardware, look like something out of an equestrian magazine photo shoot.

Exceptional durability

I like that the components of the Rucksack are so thick and sturdy that you virtually can’t damage it. You could throw this backpack and beat it up, and it would probably still look the same.

The zippers are rustproof and the canvas is abrasion-resistant and industrial-grade. The Bridle Leather is meant to adjust to your body over time. In essence, all the parts of the quality in a Filson bag get better with age, just like wine. I feel like I could not break this bag, no matter how hard I tried. It’s like it’s made of steel.

Unisex design

Just by looking at this backpack, you can tell that the materials and the design are high-class. It’s also meant for both men and women, with all of Filson’s products, including this one, coming in totally unisex and agreeable colorways.

In the golden tan color of my Twill Rucksack , Dan could borrow it and we can share the bag between us.

Filson Large Rugged Twill Rucksack

Make sure to check this out and see if it's for you!

What I don’t like

Even for a bag priced at this price point, it is not perfect and I want to be clear about that. Here are some things to know about where the backpack falls short.

Limited pockets in main cavity

One thing to note about this rucksack is that it has one main cavity, and two external pockets. That’s it. The main cavity of this backpack (in the original and Large size) does not have any smaller pockets, and there are no internal zippers and no dedicated laptop compartment.

This is not specifically a laptop bag; rather, it’s a do-it-all backpack meant for various uses. It does not have a dedicated laptop compartment, nor laptop sleeve. When I use this bag to go to work, I put my laptop in a neoprene laptop sleeve, and use it as the backbone of the backpack, to give it structure while carrying.

With only these three cavities and pockets, you’ll need a way to keep your smaller items (day-to-day things like lip balm, sunscreen, keys, literally anything small) from flying around. I use a tech pouch for holding smaller stuff like tech accessories: chargers, headphones and cables. If you have something like a small-sized packing cube , that could do the trick; ultimately, this backpack begs for organization to be used inside.

Of course, if you don’t care for organization, you can stuff large things in the Large Rucksack’s roomy interior. A jacket will fit, as will snacks, hiking accessories and a water bottle.

It is far from machine-washable

Because of the Bridle Leather and cotton rugged twill not being machine-washable, this backpack can only be wiped clean. You may not want this if you spill something on it like wine, or get something oily on it, like grease or whatever else happens during your travels and use.

This is a challenge for me, as I tend to get frustrated when bags can’t be washed in my machine.

Potential for straps to bleed

Friends have noted to us that if you sweat and you’re wearing light colors, the straps can bleed on your clothes. I haven’t experienced this (yet). I recommend keeping it in mind.

The price can be inhibitive

The price of this backpack reflects the high quality, materials and craftsmanship of Filson bags. It may not be for everyone. I’m not even sure if I’ll ever own a second Filson backpack.

The consumer for a Filson backpack is someone who wants to buy a bag for life, and never have to replace it. That is what you will get.

What I’ve gathered about the benefits of Filson

Why do people love Filson travel bags ? Well, they’re suppose to last a lifetime, so no fast fashion here.

I have the Twill Rucksack in the mustard color (now discontinued), and it pairs nicely with most outfits at any time of year. I can sling it over my shoulders in summer or spring, and in fall and winter it’ll brighten any outfit.

The Large Twill Rucksack comes only in Otter Green (timeless) and some seasonal color choices that sometimes go on sale, like Camo (snag them!).

If you have the budget and want to have a bag for the rest of your life (seriously), choose a Filson. It has a classic look and it will never go out of style. And if you are looking for the same bag capacit (33L), but you’re considering a duffel, check out the Filson Tin Cloth Duffel at our list of the best travel duffels .

Where to buy it

Getting your Filson Rucksack at the Filson website gets you a few things, as I see it: free shipping, free returns (if it doesn’t work out) and Filson’s unwavering guarantee that all products are made without faults or errors.

I found the Filson Guarantee very interesting in that their warranty covers, “Every item for the lifetime of the product,” but NOT things like “extreme wear” or mishandling from an airline. Be sure to see what you’re getting.

If you want a used Filson, you can easily get one on sites like eBay, Poshmark, Mercari or a store like Stuarts London , where you can get a steep discount.

You may also like

Bellroy Transit Plus Backpack Review: Minimal for One-Bag Travel

The Bellroy Transit Plus Backpack is a sleek travel bag for a short trip. See my favorite features that make it worth the price tag, and the things I’m less excited about.

Small Expandable Knack Pack: Weekend Backpack Review

How’s the Small Expandable Knack Pack as a small-size expandable laptop backpack for a weekend trip? Here, I review this weekend-size unisex backpack, which fits a 13 inch laptop.

The Away Daypack: Small Travel Laptop Backpack Review

I found the Away Daypack to be the best laptop and travel backpack for petite women. It's a cute and versatile laptop backpack with stylish features and an attractive design.

22+ Best Travel Backpacks for Women (Tested & Reviewed)

Learn about the best travel backpacks for women in all styles, sizes and prices. Here are the top choices and what you should consider when buying one.

Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack Review (Stylish Commuter & Travel Daypack)

Why is the Troubadour Bivy Tote the best laptop business backpack for work, commuting and travel? I assess its sleek modern look and versatile ways to wear in this product review.

United by Blue (R)evolution 15L Commuter Backpack Review: A Travel Daypack

I’ve used this minimalist commuter backpack as an airplane personal item, and as a daypack on excursions. I list this travel bag’s highlights, and its downfalls, in this review.

Hujambo ! We’re Becca & Dan.

We created this blog to share some of the knowledge and experience that we have around travel , remote work , photography and beyond!

We're currently sitting on the couch writing travel guides.

Join the club

You’ll get emails with our latest articles, tips, advice and so much more! You won't find this content anywhere else!

This website may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Among other programs, Half Half Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

United Kingdom

• United Kingdom (£ GBP)
• Andorra (€ EUR)
• Austria (€ EUR)
• Belgium (€ EUR)
• Bulgaria (€ EUR)
• Croatia (€ EUR)
• Cyprus (€ EUR)
• Czechia (€ EUR)
• Denmark (€ EUR)
• Estonia (€ EUR)
• Finland (€ EUR)
• France (€ EUR)
• Germany (€ EUR)
• Greece (€ EUR)
• Hungary (€ EUR)
• Iceland (€ EUR)
• Ireland (€ EUR)
• Italy (€ EUR)
• Latvia (€ EUR)
• Liechtenstein (€ EUR)
• Lithuania (€ EUR)
• Luxembourg (€ EUR)
• Malta (€ EUR)
• Monaco (€ EUR)
• Netherlands (€ EUR)
• Norway (€ EUR)
• Poland (€ EUR)
• Portugal (€ EUR)
• Romania (€ EUR)
• San Marino (€ EUR)
• Slovakia (€ EUR)
• Slovenia (€ EUR)
• Spain (€ EUR)
• Sweden (€ EUR)
• Switzerland (€ EUR)
• Vatican City (€ EUR)

Your shopping cart is empty

Have an account?

Log in to check out faster.

Item added to your cart

Tin cloth bags  , rugged twill bags  , backpacks & duffles  , bags & luggage.

• IN STOCK (161)
• OUT OF STOCK (35)
• BACKPACKS (31)
• BEAUTYCASES (1)
• CLUTCHES (3)
• CROSSBODY BAGS (5)
• SHOULDER BAGS (10)
• STRAPS (14)
• TOTE BAGS (23)
• WAISTBAGS (3)
• WEEKEND AND DUFFLE BAGS (57)
• ORANGE (20)
• Best selling
• Alphabetically, A-Z
• Alphabetically, Z-A
• Price, low to high
• Price, high to low
• Date, old to new
• Date, new to old

Rugged Men’s Luggage and Bags

For four decades Filson’s luggage and bags have proven their durability and functionality around the globe. Our luggage is built with the toughest materials, such as Filson's Rip Stop , the and best manufacturing to withstand the abuse of years of travel. Filson luggage bags include travel packs , briefcases , backpacks and duffles built with traditional and cutting-edge materials to fulfill outdoorsmen and sportsmen’s needs for every journey. Filson dry luggage bags are completely waterproof to keep gear dry in rain and snow or racing downriver. Our dry luggage bag range includes duffles , totes , backpacks , all constructed from PU-coated nylon with RF-welded seams. Filson backpacks provide hands-free carry of the essentials whether to the office or on the trail, and many customers find them our most-versatile luggage style . Classic designs combined with thoughtfully-engineered features and durable fabrics ensure our backpack-style luggage bags will endure the rigors of all your travels. Many Filson luggage bags are specifically designed to maximize capacity while meeting airline requirements for luggage size. Our high-capacity carry-on luggage bags include our Medium Rugged Twill Duffle , Dryden Rolling 2-Wheel Carry-On Bag and Small Rugged Twill Pullman Suitcase . Filson luggage and bags are durable travel companions that only get better with age. Check out our Rugged Twill Bags selection and Rugged Twill Duffles , the best for your next travel. Browse our collection to find the right luggage for all of your travels. Find out also the exclusive Rugged Twill Black Set .

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.

You have no items in your shopping cart.

• NEW IN Filson
• NEW IN Topo Designs
• NEW IN Barbour
• NEW IN Pendleton
• NEW IN Portuguese Flannel
• NEW IN Astorflex
• NEW IN Danner
• NEW IN Weltevree

NEW | View all items

• Backpacks & Rucksacks
• Accessories

WOMEN | View all items

• Laptop Bags
• Shirts & Sweaters
• Caps, Hats & Beanies
• Shoes & Boots

MEN | View all items

• Topo Designs
• Portuguese Flannel

BRANDS | Selected Brand:

• Filson Sale
• Topo Designs Sale
• Portuguese Flannel Sale
• Pendleton Sale
• Danner Sale

SUMMER SALE | Up to 50% Off

Enjoy Free Delivery & Free Returns (in EU)

Deliveries and return shipments are always without costs for all EU-countries, you may exchange or you will get your money back. If we receive your order before 10.00 pm, we will ship it on the same working day (Monday to Friday), and as a general rule you will receive your order within 3-4 days. 



No delivery charges BeauBags ships all orders within the EU for free.

If you want to have an order delivered outside the EU, we would kindly ask you to contact us beforehand.  Ship with DPD or GLS We ship with DPD or GLS, professional and reliable. You can follow your shipment with Track & Trace so that you can see where your package is on its journey. No return costs If a product in your EU-order is not to your liking for any reason, you can return it to us without giving us a reason, and completely free. You can easily return your product by requesting a return label by e-mail, sticking it on the box and handing over the package to a DPD Parcelshop. Repayment of your purchase amount, or crediting your credit card, is done within 2 to 5 working days after we have received your return shipment. Please be aware that orders outside the European Union cannot be returned.

Receiving your order quickly An order we receive on working days before 10.00 pm, which has an approved payment, will be shipped on the same day. Your order is normally delivered within 2 to 4 working days. If you place your order on a weekend, we will ship it on Monday.

Ship with DPD or GLS We ship with DPD or GLS, professional and reliable. You can follow your shipment with Track & Trace so that you can see where your package is on its journey.

60 days cooling-off right Your satisfaction is our most important priority. That is why you can return your EU-order to us up to 60 days after you have received it, for free, without giving a reason. Simple returns Returning orders is very simple.  Request a return label at: www.beaubags.com/returnlabel. Please include your name, order number and the product(s) you want to return. You will then receive a DPD return label by e-mail within 24 hours. Print out the return label and paste it on the box. Make sure that the label we used to send your order is no longer visible. Check your information on the back and edit this if necessary. Include the return form with the product(s) you are returning. Bring the package to the DPD Pickup parcelshop and you will have your purchase amount returned to you automatically. Repayment of the purchase amount Repayment of your purchase amount, or crediting your credit card, is done within 2 to 5 working days after we have received your return shipment. Exchange You can exchange every article for another color or model. Exchanging articles is free of charge. Please send back you’re not wanted articles as written before and place a new order through our webshop. Questions If you are still left with questions about our returns procedure, you can ask an employee from our customer service. During working days we can be reached over the phone from 09.00 am to 5.00 pm on the number +31 85 87 83 543. 

• Home   »  
• Brands We Like   »  
• Filson   »  

Filson Travel Bags

View as: Grid List

Filson 48-Hour Tin Cloth Duffle Bag Otter Green

Filson 48 Hour Tin Cloth Duffle Bag Navy

Filson 48-Hour Tin Cloth Duffle Bag Dark Tan

Filson Traveller Outfitter Bag Stapleton Cinder

Filson Ripstop Nylon Pullman Surplus Green

Regular Price: €389.00

Special Price: €269.00

Out of stock

Filson Ripstop Nylon Pullman Black

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Medium Otter Green

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Medium Navy

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Medium Tan

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Medium Black

Filson Traveller Medium Duffle Bag Stapleton Cinder

Regular Price: €1,149.00

Special Price: €799.00

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Small Otter Green

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Small Tan

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Small Black

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Small Navy

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Large Tan

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Large Navy

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag Large Otter Green

Filson Tin Cloth Medium Duffle Bag Navy

Filson Tin Cloth Medium Duffle Bag Otter Green

Filson Tin Cloth Medium Duffle Bag Dark Tan

Filson Tin Cloth Medium Duffle Bag Dark Tan/Flame

Filson Tin Cloth Small Duffle Bag Otter Green

Filson Tin Cloth Small Duffle Bag Navy

Filson Tin Cloth Small Duffle Bag Dark Tan

Filson Tin Cloth Small Duffle Bag Dark Tan/Flame

Filson Tin Cloth Small Duffle Bag Realtree Hardwoods Camo

Regular Price: €359.00

Special Price: €219.00

Filson Surveyor Pullman Pack Black

Filson Surveyor Pullman Pack Service Green

Filson Surveyor Pullman Pack Dark Tan/Flame

Filson Surveyor Crossbody Pack Service Green

Filson Surveyor Crossbody Pack Dark Tan/Flame

Filson Surveyor Crossbody Pack Black

Filson Rugged Twill Field Bag Small Black

Filson Rugged Twill Field Bag Small Otter Green

Filson Rugged Twill Field Bag Small Tan

Filson Rugged Twill Field Bag Medium Otter Green

Filson Rugged Twill Field Bag Medium Navy

Filson Tin Cloth Travel Kit Otter Green

Filson Tin Cloth Travel Kit Dark Tan

Filson Tin Cloth Travel Kit Flame

Filson Rugged Twill Travel Kit Black

Filson Rugged Twill Travel Kit Tan

Filson Rugged Twill Travel Kit Navy

Filson Rugged Twill Travel Kit Otter Green

Filson Travel Pack Otter Green

Filson Travel Pack Whiskey

Filson Travel Pack Dark Navy

Regular Price: €89.00

Special Price: €69.00

FILSON TRAVEL BAGS, water-repellent and Industrial-strength travel bags that withstand the rigors of daily use for years.

FILSON the AMERICAN EXPERIENCE | BUILT TO LAST

Established in 1897, Filson is the leading outfitter and manufacturer of unfailing goods for outdoor enthusiasts. Built upon a reputation for reliability, Filson is a favorite among anglers and hunters, engineers and explorers, mariners and miners, and anyone who refuses to stay indoors.

FILSON | RUGGED QUALITY FOR OVER 100 YEARS

Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, and renowned for making products in the USA from fabrics such as heavyweight 22-oz. cotton oil finish Rugged Twill, Tin Cloth and warm Mackinaw Wool, this company stands for the highest quality and most durable apparel and accessories available.

Filson Travel Bags , order at BeauBags, Authorized International Filson Dealer and your Filson travelbag specialist in Europe. Personal & expert advice | Europe's largest Filson collection | Immediately available, ordered before 22:00, we ship the same day | Free delivery & return | 60-day return policy.

Filson Travel Bags are one of the many Filson items in our large and carefully selected collection. View the complete collection of Filson in our online shop.

• €0.00 - €999.99 (47)
• €1,000.00 and above (1)
• Whiskey (1)
• Rugged Twill (22)
• Tin Cloth (15)
• Ballistic Nylon (3)
• 500D Cordura® Ripstop (8)
• 13 inch (2)
• 14 inch (2)
•             

About BeauBags With a BeauBag you'll always and everywhere good on-the-go. On the way to the office, in the city, or during a weekend trip to Paris. You can store and carry your laptop, tablet or phone inconspicuous and safe. And with a range of easy-access pockets a BeauBag offers still plenty of room for your necessary business and personal items. Are you looking for a stylish, practical and fashionable laptop bag? Then a BeauBag is right for you. Hand made of first class Italian-leather. For men and women! Your order at BeauBags is safe and secure. We offer free shipping and orders placed before 15.00 PM on business days we ship out the same day. Is the bag not quite what you like? You always may return free within 30 days. Extraordinary bags for an ordinary day. BAGS FOR MEN AND WOMEN | Extraordinary bags for an ordinary day

Best price guarantee. We guarantee the best price for you! At BeauBags you will always shop for the most favourable price.  If you find the same non-discounted article for less in another European webshop, we will give you the product for the same price, with an extra discount of € 10.00.

How it works

Send the proof (for example internet address/URL) to our email address: [email protected] 

Off course you can also contact us over the phone on the number +31 (0) 85-878 3543 (Monday to Friday, 09.00 am to 05.00 pm)

Sign up for our newsletter, and get your 10% discount*

call us +31 (0) 85-878 3543

CUSTOMER SERVICE

• Prices & Vat
• Your account

DELIVERY & RETURNS

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookie policy

ABOUT BEAUBAGS

• Our company

Top-categories

Top-products.

• Filson Original Briefcase Navy
• Topo Designs Accessory Bags Black
• Filson Dryden Briefcase Otter Green
• Orders and Returns
• Copyright © 2010 - 2024 BeauBags - All Right Reserved
•   Emico Magento Lease

• Best Whiskey
• Best Gym Shoes
• Best Pocket Knives
• Best Apple Watch
• Porsche Models

Filson Just Brought Back One of the Best Travel Bags Ever Built

This discontinued travel pack was once dubbed “the greatest bag ever made.” Good news: it’s back.

By Jack Seemer

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

The Duffel Backpack Hybrid was never Filson’s most famous bag (a crown worn by the brand’s Rugged Twill Original Briefcase ). But maybe it should have been.

Jeremy White, an editor at Wired , once dubbed it the “ greatest bag ever made .” Full stop. Not even close.

Filson Duffel Backpack Hybrid

• $349 at Huckberry

Versatile, durable, lightweight — the Duffel Backpack Hybrid was well on its way to the Mount Rushmore of luggage, nestled in-between a Rimowa Carry-On and Patagonia Black Hole .

Then Filson did the unthinkable. It retired the bag. And the Duffel Backpack Hybrid was almost lost to the secondhand market, joining the Duster Coat on the brand’s growing list of discontinued, highly collectible products gawked over by gear heads.

Return trip

One such gear head was Rhyne Simpson, a merchandise manager at Huckberry, who knew first-hand just how good Duffel Backpack Hybrid was before Filson axed it.

“We sold thousand units over the years,” Simpson said. “People started reaching out to us for this product, looking for it because they wanted to replace their old version or get one for a friend.”

Now they can.

After “pleading” with Filson, Simpson said, the brand decided to bring back the Duffel Backpack Hybrid as a Huckberry exclusive, for good.

The best part? “It’s the exact same bag,” Simpson said. No gimmicks. No one-off badging. No weird colors. This is the Duffel Backpack Hybrid of yesteryear, right down to the zippers and pockets.

Back in Stock

A class of its own

Unlike the Rugged Twill Briefcase, the bag comes with Filson’s ballistic nylon fabric. Its secret sauce? Durability without weight.

“It definitely feels like you can toss it in the back of a pickup truck on a dirty road and get dust all over it.”

According to Simpson, the fabric makes the bag “really, really light, but it has the abrasion resistance that you need for something like this. It definitely feels like you can toss it in the back of a pickup truck on a dirty road and get dust all over it.”

The 46-liter size makes it suitable to a weeklong work trip or a full-fledged adventure, paired with another piece of luggage. And the trio of carry options — it can be worn as a backpack, over the shoulder or simply by the bridle-leather haul handles — makes it even more versatile.

Pockets where you need ’em

When it comes to organization, the bag’s large center “compartment plays nicely with packing cubes, however, the Duffel Backpack Hybrid offers it’s own army of pockets: two on the outside (one lined for shoes and dirty clothes) and a padded pouch for laptops up to 15 inches.

“You can kind of pack it however you want,” Simpson said. “You can do all your packing cubes and you’ve got a little bit of organization in there, but it’s just totally different from any other travel bag.”

Pricing and availability

The Duffel Backpack Hybrid is available now, exclusively at Huckberry. It costs $349, which, if you ask Simpson, is one heck of a value. “In that range of bags, that’s not too expensive,” he said.

Though the bag is only available in Otter Green, just like the original, Simpson teased the possibility of other classic colors down the line — possibly as soon as the holidays. Until then, grab one while it’s still in stock.

Take a Trip

Get more stories like this in your inbox daily.

Related topics.

Announcement

2024 Camp Guide:   Shop Our Favorite Picks For Fall

Free Standard Shipping For Orders Over $50   Learn More

Cart, contains 0 items

Men’s Venture Collection: Timeless Outdoor Staples

• Insulated Jackets
• Ski & Snowboard Jackets
• Ski & Snowboard Pants
• Hoodies & Sweatshirts
• Rain & Wind Jackets
• Trail Running
• Road Running
• Gloves & Mittens
• Electronics
• Blankets & Beach Towels

Classic, Casual, Cool: New Fall Arrivals Have Landed

• Fleece Jackets
• Jumpsuits & Overalls
• Dresses & Skirts
• Everyday Bags
• Beach Bags & Totes
• Toddler Boys
• Toddler Girls
• Balaclavas & Neck Gaiters
• Backpacks & Bags
• Water Sports

Ski Guide: Gearhead Top Picks Of The Season

Snowboard Guide: Gearhead Top Picks Of The Season

• Ski Clothing
• Alpine Skis
• Alpine Bindings
• Alpine Ski Boots
• Touring Skis
• Touring Bindings
• Touring Boots
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowboard Clothing
• Snowboard Bindings
• Snowboard Boots
• Splitboards
• Splitboard Bindings
• Splitboard Skins
• Avalanche Safety
• Snowboard Bags
• Winter Packs
• Tuning Accessories
• Hike & Camp

2024 Camp Guide: Your Destination For All Things Camp

2024 Hike Guide: Buyer’s Guide To Top Hike Gear & Apparel

• Hiking Clothing
• Hiking Footwear
• Backpacking Packs
• Technical Daypacks
• Hydration Packs
• Kid Carriers
• Water Bottles
• Trekking Poles
• Tents & Shelters
• Sleeping Bags
• Sleeping Pads
• Camp Chairs
• Camp Tables
• Stoves & Grills
• Pots & Pans
• Roof Racks & Accessories
• Rooftop Tents
• Batteries & Solar Power
• Water Storage & Purification
• Storage Solutions
• Off-Road Recovery

Mountain Bike Guide: Top Picks For Fall

• Mountain Bikes
• Gravel & Cyclocross Bikes
• Kids' Bikes
• Mountain Bike Components
• Gravel & Cyclocross Components
• Road Components
• Triathlon / TT Bike Components
• Men's Bike Apparel
• Women's Bike Apparel
• Kids' Bike Apparel
• Mountain Bike Shoes
• Road Bike Shoes
• Flat Pedal Shoes
• Triathlon Shoes
• Mountain Bike Helmets
• Full Face Helmets
• Road Bike Helmets
• Commuter Helmets
• Knee & Shin Pads
• Arm & Elbow Pads
• Chest & Spine Protection
• Bike Maintenance
• Bike Storage & Transportation
• Bike Packs & Bags
• Trainers & Accessories
• Bike Lighting & Electronics
• Water Bottles & Cages
• Bike Trailers

2024 Travel Guide—Top Gear & Apparel For Globetrotters

• Duffel Bags
• Rolling Bags
• Carry-On Luggage
• Travel Packs
• Camera Packs & Bags
• Ski Boot Bags
• Snowboard Boot Bags
• Fly Fishing Bags & Luggage
• Bike Travel Cases
• Surfboard Bags & Packs
• Water Filters & Purification
• Travel Pillows
• Power Converters

2024 Water Guide: This Year’s Top Paddle, Surf & Wake Gear

• Recreational Kayaks
• Recreational Paddles
• Recreational PFDs
• Whitewater Kayaks
• Whitewater Paddles
• Whitewater PFDs
• Stand-Up Paddleboards
• Stand-Up Paddleboard Paddles
• Drysuits & Clothing
• Safety Gear
• Reels & Spools
• Wading Boots & Sandals
• Clothing & Accessories
• Packs & Vests
• Storage & Transport
• Shortboards
• Men's Wetsuits
• Women's Wetsuits
• Hoods, Booties & Gloves
• Men's Swimwear
• Women's Swimwear
• Traction Pads
• Wakeboard Bindings
• Wakeboard Boots
• Rope & Accessories
• Wake Surfboards
• Wakefoil Boards
• Wakesurf Accessories

New-To-Site Gear From Brands We’ve Deemed Goatworthy

Exclusive To Backcountry

• Backcountry
• US Ski & Snowboard
• The North Face
• Helly Hansen
• Outdoor Research
• Black Diamond
• Mountain Hardwear
• See All Brands
• District Vision
• Western Rise
• DOD Outdoors

Up To 50% Off Fall Gear & Apparel

Featured Deals

• Latest Price Drops
• Deals Under $100
• Deals Under $50
• Stoic On Sale
• Smartwool On Sale
• Mountain Hardwear On Sale
• Outdoor Research On Sale
• Marmot On Sale
• Shop All Sale
• Women's Clothing
• Women's Footwear
• Women's Accessories
• Men's Clothing
• Men's Footwear
• Men's Accessories

Gear Picks & Pro Tips For However You Get Out There

2024 Camp Guide: Favorite Picks For Fall

2024 Running Gear Guide: The Best Shoes, Apparel & Sports Bras

What’s Up At The Goat

• Venture Beyond
• Backcountry Podcast
• Explore Articles
• Outervention
• The Nature Conservancy
• Greener Packaging
• Find A Store

Follow Along On Social

Emerging Run Brands

Venture Beyond | Ep. 6 | Building A Legacy

BC Podcast | Ep. 26 | MTB Legend, Remy Metailler

Up to 50% Off Fall Gear & Apparel

$20 For Your Crew, $20 For You

Refer A Friend Now

.css-ryjapq{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;margin-bottom:var(--chakra-space-2);} .css-1icfcof{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:var(--chakra-colors-btn-brand);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-base);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-sm);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-normal);}.css-1icfcof:focus-visible,.css-1icfcof[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-1icfcof:hover,.css-1icfcof[data-hover]{color:var(--chakra-colors-btn-brand);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;} Filson .css-1oyyk97{color:var(--chakra-colors-txt-primary);overflow-wrap:normal;font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-base);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-xl);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-bold);} Large Carry-On Travel Bag

Out of stock, weeklong urban trips or off the beaten path..

Whether you're packing for a weekend hunting trip or weeklong fishing trip, the Filson Large Carry-On Travel Bag keeps your clothes and gear well organized. This carry-on bag opens flat for easy packing with adjustable straps to secure clothing and a large internal zippered pocket. Oil-finished cotton twill fabric offers durability and weather resistance while its bridle leather straps add a touch of quality. A removable, adjustable bridle leather shoulder strap with shoulder pad supplies carry comfort while an open front pocket and a zippered front pocket stash your passport or small essentials.

• 100% rugged cotton twill fabric, oil finish
• 2 bridle leather buckle front straps
• Removable, adjustable bridle leather shoulder strap with shoulder pad
• Two-way brass zipper
• Bridle leather zipper pulls
• One main compartment
• One zippered front pocket, one open pocket, one internal zippered pocket
• Item #FSN000S

What do you think about this product?

Sorry, we don’t currently have any of those types of reviews for this product.

Need Expert Advice?

Our Gearheads Can Help

• Скидки дня
• Справка и помощь
• Адрес доставки Идет загрузка... Ошибка: повторите попытку ОК
• Продажи
• Список отслеживания Развернуть список отслеживаемых товаров Идет загрузка... Войдите в систему , чтобы просмотреть свои сведения о пользователе
• Краткий обзор
• Недавно просмотренные
• Ставки/предложения
• Список отслеживания
• История покупок
• Купить опять
• Объявления о товарах
• Сохраненные запросы поиска
• Сохраненные продавцы
• Сообщения
• Развернуть корзину Идет загрузка... Произошла ошибка. Чтобы узнать подробнее, посмотрите корзину.

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.

Free Public Lands membership required, single-use discount reflects in cart

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.

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.

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

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)

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

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 Take This Backpack Everywhere. After Two Years, It’s Still Practically Flawless.

For two years and counting, Everlane’s ReNew Transit Backpack has been my go-to for commutes and weekend trips, thanks to its size, storage, and adjustability.

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

• Bags & Luggage

Filson briefcases are made from time-tested waxed-cotton fabrics. The Filson Original Briefcase, introduced in 1992, is made with our proprietary Rugged Twill. This fabric is a lightly waxed, tightly-woven cotton twill that’s extremely abrasion-resistant. The straps on Rugged Twill briefcases are made from vegetable-tanned Bridle Leather that is strong enough for horse tack. Filson also makes briefcases with the iconic waxed cotton, Tin Cloth. This canvas earned its reputation for durability in jackets and pants used by foresters and sportsmen in the Pacific Northwest.

‘In Your Words’ explores the incredible stories we’ve received from Filson fans across the globe.

No Matter Where the Job Takes You

It takes specialized expertise and machinery to manufacture fabric as tightly woven as our Rugged Twill.

Canvas Briefcases & Messenger Bags

Are canvas messenger bags water resistant.

The wax treatment of Filson Rugged Twill and Waxed Canvas briefcases makes them highly water-resistant. Waxing cotton is a time-proven method of making the fabric turn away water. Tin Cloth briefcases can be rewaxed time and again to maintain their weatherproof properties.

How Do You Care For a Canvas Briefcase?

Filson briefcases should not be washed, as detergents will strip the wax from the fabric and reduce its water resistance. Simply brush or wipe off dirt, and let the waxed cotton develop its unique character and patina. Leather straps and handles should be treated with leather conditioner or wax annually to keep them from drying out.

Why Choose a Filson?

Filson has manufactured high-quality, durable, and functional outdoor clothing and gear for well over a century, and that experience is applied to every briefcase Filson makes. Only the best materials are used and the manufacturing meets exacting standards.

Your are currently visiting the U.S. store. Please confirm your preferred shopping experience:

• Quick Facts
• Sights & Attractions
• Tsarskoe Selo
• Oranienbaum
• Foreign St. Petersburg
• Restaurants & Bars
• Accommodation Guide
• St. Petersburg Hotels
• Serviced Apartments
• Bed and Breakfasts
• Private & Group Transfers

Airport Transfers

• Concierge Service
• Russian Visa Guide
• Request Visa Support

Walking Tours

• River Entertainment
• Public Transportation
• Travel Cards
• Essential Shopping Selection
• Business Directory
• Photo Gallery
• Video Gallery
• 360° Panoramas
• Moscow Hotels
• Moscow.Info

Welcome to St. Petersburg!

Discover the magic of russia's second city online....

One of the world's most beautiful cities, St. Petersburg has all the ingredients for an unforgettable travel experience: high art, lavish architecture, wild nightlife, an extraordinary history and rich cultural traditions that have inspired and nurtured some of the modern world's greatest literature, music, and visual art. From the mysterious twilight of the White Nights to world-beating opera and ballet productions on magical winter evenings, St. Petersburg charms and entices in every season. Saint-Petersburg.Com is here to help you navigate every aspect of this fascinating city, with all the information and travel resources necessary to plan your trip to St. Petersburg.

Top 20 Attractions

The best of st. petersburg, discover st. petersburg on foot, the hermitage, treasures from throughout the world, a comfortable arrival in st. petersburg, imperial splendour, st. petersburg's suburban palaces, home comforts, st. petersburg holiday apartments, italian st. petersburg, venice of the north, nevsky prospekt, st. petersburg's central avenue, peter the great, st. petersburg's amazing founder, russian delicacies, discover the best of russian cooking, religious sights, cathedrals, churches and monasteries, astoria hotel, the home of luxury in st. petersburg, family favorites, hotels for travelers with small children, st. petersburg city markets, a taste of the exotic, museum of political history, relics of a moribund ideology, river trips, explore st. petersburg's waterways, disabled travelers, help navigating st. petersburg, buy art in st. petersburg, guide to st. petersburg galleries, a capital idea, pay a visit to moscow, w st. petersburg hotel, international design hotel, city of revolution, the revolution in petrograd, the bronze horseman, st. petersburg's most famous statue, st. petersburg lives, the city's most famous residents, helvetia hotel, swiss charm in the centre.

We can help you make the right choice from hundreds of St. Petersburg hotels and hostels.

Live like a local in self-catering apartments at convenient locations in St. Petersburg.

Comprehensive solutions for those who relocate to St. Petersburg to live, work or study.

Maximize your time in St. Petersburg with tours expertly tailored to your interests.

Get around in comfort with a chauffeured car or van to suit your budget and requirements.

Book a comfortable, well-maintained bus or a van with professional driver for your group.

Navigate St. Petersburg’s dining scene and find restaurants to remember.

Need tickets for the Mariinsky, the Hermitage, a football game or any event? We can help.

Get our help and advice choosing services and options to plan a prefect train journey.

Let our meeting and events experts help you organize a superb event in St. Petersburg.

We can find you a suitable interpreter for your negotiations, research or other needs.

Get translations for all purposes from recommended professional translators.