10 Best Backpack for European travel (2024)
Buying a good backpack for your travels nowadays demands some serious thought and money. However, picking one that fits your European travel requirements might take time, no thanks to the myriad of backpacks available in the market today. Imagine spending all the time at the mall shopping for a good backpack, or surfing through e-commerce platforms like Amazon, only to buy the wrong fit for your journey.
After all that time and effort, picking the incorrect backpack can have you lugging about an uncomfortable backpack for the duration of your vacation. To avoid such a situation, getting yourself a backpack that can fit your European vacation essentials without being unnecessarily cumbersome is important.
We researched and evaluated several types of travel backpacks to find the best ones for vacations to Europe. We reviewed the different backpacks in terms of size, portability, and general performance.
Best Backpack for Traveling to Europe
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- Large, lockable U-zip duffel-style access to main compartment - 55L total volume
- Detachable daypack with designated laptop and tablet sleeve and scratch-free stash pocket
- Stowaway backpanel, shoulder straps and hipbelt with zippered rear flap for protection when checking
- Lockable zipper access to padded laptop & tablet sleeve (fits up to most 15" laptops)
- Lockable sliders on main compartment zipper.Scratch-free pocket for sunglasses or devices
Overview:
The KAKA Travel Backpack is a versatile and durable travel companion that seamlessly transitions between a backpack and a duffle bag. With dimensions measuring 9 x 12.6 x 21.6 inches and a weight of 3.68 pounds, this backpack is designed for both men and women who demand reliability and ample storage space. It features a sleek black 35L design and is categorized under the unisex-adult department.
While a specific model number is not provided, this review will offer a comprehensive look at its features, pros, cons, and impressive user rating of 4.6/5 based on 2675 reviews.
Features:
Convertible Design
The standout feature of this KAKA Travel Backpack is its convertible design, allowing you to switch between a backpack and a duffle bag effortlessly. This adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of activities, from travel to outdoor adventures.
Spacious and Laptop-Friendly
With its generous capacity and a dedicated compartment for a 17.3-inch laptop, this backpack provides ample space for all your essentials. Whether you’re a student, professional, or traveler, it can accommodate your needs.
Durable and Water-Resistant
Crafted from high-quality materials, this backpack is built to last. Its water-resistant exterior adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring your belongings stay dry during unexpected rain showers.
Anti-Theft Features
For added security, the KAKA Travel Backpack includes anti-theft features like hidden zippers and a concealed back pocket, keeping your valuable items safe while moving.
Overview:
The Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack is a versatile and functional bag designed for the modern traveler. Crafted with durable, high-quality materials, this backpack in a stylish navy color is designed to endure the rigors of travel. It is a unisex adult bag with model number ZH1603233R1F.
Special Features:
Convertible Design: The backpack can be carried in multiple ways, either as a backpack, over-the-shoulder or with the side handle like a suitcase.
Compartments: It includes a large main compartment, a front pocket with several organized sections for smaller items, a middle compartment for tech items or clothes, and a padded laptop sleeve.
Space: It’s designed to maximize carry-on size restrictions, ensuring you can carry it on most airlines without checking it in.
Material: Made with durable polyester that resists wear and tear, it’s also water-resistant to protect your belongings from the elements.
Adjustable Straps: The straps can be adjusted for comfort and stowed away when not in use.
Overview
If you're looking to make a major fashion statement while backpacking around Europe, this is the bag for you. The Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Backpack for Women is a fashionable backpack made of a stylish chevron quilted polyester-twill water-resistant exterior with gold-plated zippers. The Interior features a fully lined tear-resistant stripe polyester lining that will stand up to daily use. On the other hand, the bag is just as efficient and useful as the greatest European travel bags. The rear exterior features breathable and adjustable shoulder straps that relieve the stress of shoulders for maximum comfort while on the move. The backpack's rear features a trolley strap that fits over most luggage upright handles for hands-free carrying. Convenient beverage holster pockets are featured on both sides of the backpack. Features a convenient, easy-to-carry, top-grab handle.
Kenneth's backpack has a dedicated, cushioned laptop compartment. The bag's cushioned, detachable straps can be adjusted to your comfort level, making it ideal for long periods of time spent carrying. The separate padded tech pocket fits most laptops with up to a 15-inch screen, as well as 14 Inch Laptop or 13 Inch MacBook/Laptop. A padded tablet pocket in the main compartment is also compatible with most tablets.
Front exterior features an extensive organizer for all your needed essentials. The backpack has a strap that you can use by sliding it inside the bag's handle. Because of its compact size, this bag may be stored in the overhead compartment or stowed beneath a seat in overhead bins. It is suitable for commuting or as a carry-on and can be easily stored. This backpack is lightweight and stylish, which is perfect for Europe travel.
Overview:
The Osprey Farpoint 40L is a favorite among many travelers due to its design and functionality. While I don’t have a specific review on the Farpoint 40L in front of me, based on the typical features and feedback on the Farpoint series, here’s a hypothetical list of pros and cons:
Overview
One of the best backpacks to take across Europe is the Nomatic. It's got a tonne of pockets and nooks for stowing stuff. It is the perfect everyday bag. The exterior is durable and waterproof, has YKK zippers, and is made of material that will last forever. The full perimeter zipper gives you access from all sides! You have a full view of the entire bag interior for better visibility and packing. The backpack has 20 functional pockets. The pockets include a quick-access fleece pocket, multiple mesh elastic pockets, RFID lockable security pocket, multiple mesh zipper pockets, a notebook pocket, and a hidden pocket for any important items. The backpack has everything you want and more.
The Nomatic Backpack is one of the most functional backpacks ever. It has cord pass-through holes in each compartment to make charging technology seamless. The water bottle pocket is magnetic. It expands when in use, and snaps shut when not. There is also a retractable key leash as well as reflective ink on the front and back of the bag. In addition to being packed with incredible functionality, the Nomatic travel backpack has a sleek minimalist design and gives you confidence for your life on the move.
Dimensions: 6 x 12 x 18.5 inches
Backpack weight: 4 pounds
Overview
The Venturesafe Exp55 theft-proof backpack fare Pacsafe provides functionality and seamlessly integrated security technology. The flexible, stainless steel wire runs through the adjustable carry-safe slash guard shoulder straps, an the turn and lock security Hook attaches the bag to a fixture for added security. The RFIDsafe blocking pocket helps prevent important details from falling into the wrong hands.
The backpack’s fabric is embedded with eXomesh Slashguard, a lightweight, flexible, stainless steel wire mesh. The Lockout Security Clip and smart zipper security provide multiple layers of protection and lockdown points for zippers to help protect against pickpockets. There is a robar locking system for the zippered main and front pockets which help with the organization of cards, phones, and passports, an iPad/13-inch Laptop compatible sleeve, two side stretch pockets, and adjustable shoulder straps.
Overview
If you’re looking for the finest backpack for a trip to Europe, consider the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack. Whether you’re going to be touring new towns or taking a group of friends on a cross-country rail trip, this pack’s sleek design and 35L of capacity will come in handy. The bag has carabiner lash loops, tuck-away straps and 4 reinforced grab handles.
This bag’s dimensions (20 inches by 12 inches by 8 inches) meet the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards for carry-on luggage. The main clamshell compartment is well-organized on the inside, and there are cushioned sleeves for a laptop or tablet, as well as several outside pockets, to ensure that your gear has somewhere to call home. Surely this would be the best clamshell backpacks of all.
Additionally, compression straps aid in securing contents and preventing movement. The fabric is thermoplastic polyurethane-coated, making it very water-resistant and robust enough to withstand any terrain. The tent has a detachable rainfly that may be used for further shelter during downpours. Adjustable shoulder straps and a sternum strap are included, as well as a cushioned hip belt that can be removed, a back panel made of air mesh, and a sternum strap.
Overview
The Tortuga travel backpack is designed specifically for travel, with many features that make it perfect for taking on planes, trains, and buses. The Setout Divide travel backpack is an expandable carry-on sized, so you never have to worry about checking your bag; with room for 3-5 days worth of clothing, toiletries, and other travel essentials, you'll always have what you need, when you need it. The Divide is expandable from 26L to 34L when you need more space for a more exteded trip or to bring home some souvenirs.
The travel bag opens flat like a suitcase for easy packing and organization so you never lose your stuff at the bottom of your bag. In addition, the accessory pockets keep all your belongings readily available. The dual foam shoulder straps conform to your body for a custom fit, while the padded, removable hip belt takes your bag's weight off of your shoulders and transfers it onto your hips for lighter, more comfortable carrying. You can customize the weight-bearing hip belt and an adjustable harness system to fit your body, which is great if you’re carrying heavy loads or traveling long distances.
There is also a dedicated padded laptop and tablet sleeve compartment, two water bottle pockets as well as plenty of organizational pockets to keep everything neatly sorted. The laptop and tablet sleeves protect your electronics while on the road; The setout divide expandable carry-on travel backpack fits a 15 inch laptop, 9.7-inch tablet, and all your chargers. The backpack comes with stowable, hideaway straps that keep your bag protected when stashed away. The Tortuga travel backpack is durable, weather-resistant and is built to last, meaning it will be there with you for the long haul.
- 【22-35L EXPANDABLE DESIGN】: Before extended is 22L, dimensions are 17.5x11.8x5.5inch; after extended is 35L, dimensions are 17.5x11.8x9.5inch. You can expand the zipper and buckles according to your requirement. The two handles set on top and one side, which allow an easy switch between backpack and suitcase. So it can be carried vertically or horizontally. The luggage belt on the back allows being slide over the luggage tube,backpack very easy to carry, it is great for 3-5days daily travel.
- 【LARGE CAPACITY EASY TO CARRY-ON】:The backpack with many compartments, organization and expansion.The main pocket can hold your travel goods,fit 5-8pcs clothes. It is cool that there is a wet pouch to liquids.Front compartment can also hold magazines,Ipad and power bank which can charge your phone. 17inch laptop compartment size: 15.3" x 11.4" (please cheak your laptop size),Backpack Back with padded batter can protect your laptop.
- 【WATERPROOF & ANTI-THEFT DESIGN】: 1. Backpack back zipper pocket protects your precious articles, such as phone, passport, wallet from potential theft when traveling or lining up; 2 Waterproof PVC material, internal waterproof pouch to protect your goods from water.3.Ergonomic airflow back design with thick but soft multi-panel ventilated padding for added support and comfort, decreasing the pressure of shoulder and neck; 4.Shoulder straps with adjustable anti-slip chest belt and quick release
- 【DURABLE & MULTIPURPOSE】: The shoulder and handle joints are adopted bold line sewing to make it sturdier. The two thick handles are comfortable for long time carrying. All the zippers are durable and smooth which are sturdy explosion-proof. Different compartments with different sizes and features make you to storage items easily and neatly. A great companion for commuting, business trip, hiking, travel, camping and other outdoor activities.
- 【Our Service】: If you are not satisfied within one month, you can get an unconditional refund. If you have quality problems within one year, you can contact us. We will respond to your request and after-sales within 24 hours.
Things to Look Out For In Backpack For European Travel
You should give some thought to the following factors while deciding on the best backpack for your trip to Europe. We’ve outlined some of the most crucial factors to consider.
Comfort
The last thing you want to do while on vacation in Europe is lug a hefty bag that gives you back pain. Whether you want to carry it on your back or in a carry-on, choose a bag that you can easily do. Ensure that the back, the straps, and the grip on these bags are all cushioned for comfort.
Cost-effectiveness when it comes to packing a backpack is important, but so is the ease of use while exploring new places. If you’re going the additional mile to go to your hotel or shopping for one, carrying a backpack that is filled to the brim and too heavy may cause a lot of strain and discomfort in your back.
Size
Every individual has unique carrying requirements, thus, choosing the right size for a backpack is really a matter of necessity and, of course, choice. Pick the one that best fits your travel bag. Whether you want to bring a laptop computer, check to see if the bag includes a padded compartment to protect it.
No matter how long your vacation is, you will have to lug around your luggage at least a few times. There’s no need for it to be burdensome. A yearlong trip requires just about the same assortment of supplies as a monthlong one.
With careful planning and packing, you can bring everything you need in a backpack that’s no more than 50 litres in capacity.
Ergonomics
Since everyone has a different build and set of requirements, choosing a backpack that fits you like a glove is crucial. Different models and brands of backpacks provide various sizes and forms.
Consider how nicely the straps contour to your shoulders and whether or not the cloth bothers you where it rubs most often (on the back of your arm). Instead of opting for a free-size bag, think about purchasing a backpack that is tailored to your body type.
Material
It goes without saying that you should opt for a backpack with quality, durable material. The worst part of any vacation is being caught in a downpour while carrying a bag that isn’t waterproof. The material you use should be thick and lightweight, and waterproof.
It is essential to ensure that every content of your backpack does not become wet when there is a downpour. If you find a backpack that you love that is not water-resistant, you can always get a backpack with tarps for those unexpected rainy days.
Unique Features
Conventional backpack has many compartments and pockets to accommodate various items. There has to be a spot for everything from notepads to spare batteries to a hard drive to business cards. Create a visual inventory of your belongings and ensure they are properly stowed in the bag.
If you want to be able to secure your belongings at any time, it’s best to make sure each of your bag’s sections has two zippers. Locks that can be opened without breaking should be used in case they are subject to a TSA check.
Colour
Outside the standard black, backpacks come in a wide range of hues and tones. Instead of selecting one based on aesthetics, you should consider how well it works with your personal style and the rest of your wardrobe.
Since backpacks cover a large portion of a person’s body, choosing an unattractive colour may not have the desired effect, so it is best to choose a backpack that appeals to you personally. The ideal bag concept does not exist, hence fixating on obtaining such a thing is futile.
If you stumble across one, your needs will likely evolve over time, rendering it obsolete. So, remember the aforementioned advice and go do what makes you happy.
What to Pack for European Travel
Understandably, you may have already made you travel list, including the things that will go into your backpack. However, as a refresher, we have highlighted some travel essentials for an European travel.
● Compression bags
Squeezing the air out of your clothing with compression bags is a terrific method to make extra room in your backpack for souvenirs and other necessities.
● European Travel Plug Adapter
It is necessary to use a European-styled adapter in order to power any American, Canadian, Australian, or British electrical gadgets. If you are travelling to a British Island like Grand Cayman Beach Clubs or Bermuda beach Clubs then. this backpack is the best.
● A Retractable-Cable Lock
If your backpack doesn’t have a lock that can pass through security scanners (TSA-approved lock) consider purchasing a retractable cable lock.
● Travel Neck Pillow
When backpacking around Europe, you’ll spend a lot of time on trains, planes, and buses. Packing a neck pillow might be helpful for long trips.
● Travel Umbrella
One of those items you forget to bring but end up needing desperately is an umbrella. Don’t think twice when packing for your European trip; just pack a portable umbrella.
● Travel Insurance for Europe
No one prays for mishaps, but it’s always good to prepare for rainy days by purchasing European backpacking insurance if you plan backpacking. It is advisable to get some kind of travel insurance.
Conclusion
Travel backpacks are ideal for longer trips as most of the time will be spent on foot. Duffels are the most convenient option for shorter journeys, and they make for excellent carry-ons, provided they meet airline regulations.
For a more extended European vacation exceeding five days, a large duffel bag is not recommended because of the discomfort you will experience lugging it around for lengths of time.
The standard policy of most airlines is to allow each passenger to bring one piece of checked baggage (often a larger backpack) and one piece of personal luggage (typically a smaller daypack backpack) that together must fit beneath the seat in front of them.
Be aware that many European low-cost airlines may charge you for whatever you bring on the plane, including your carry-on backpack.
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Chiamaka is a trained communication professional and a talented wordsmith with a knack for crafting captivating stories about people, products and services that add value . With pen in hand and a mind brimming with endless creativity, she has honed her skills as a skilled author. Her heart truly lies in the enchanting realm of travel. From alluring destinations and travel luggage to awe-inspiring adventures, she has had the pleasure of weaving words that transport people to far-flung destinations. She is passionate about traveling to new destinations and exploring fascinating cultures and landscapes.