10 Best Backpack For Backpacking Europe (2023) – Which Backpack Should You Buy?

Backpacking through Europe is an amazing experience. You get to explore new places, try different foods, meet new people, and create lifelong memories. For your European backpacking trip to be as successful as possible, having the right backpack would help.

The best backpack for backing in Europe are durable, comfortable to carry, and have enough room for all your stuff. The last thing you want is your backpack breaking down or being too small halfway through your trip!

To help you pick the perfect backpack for backpacking Europe, I’ve reviewed the 10 best backpacks of 2023. I looked at top brands like Osprey, Gregory, Deuter, and more to find high-quality and affordable packs.

I’ve included top picks under $100, $100-$300, and premium backpacks over $300. No matter your budget or needs, you’ll find the perfect backpack for your next Eurotrip!

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Backpack

Before jumping into the backpack reviews, let’s quickly go over what you should look for when choosing a backpack for Europe:

Backpack Size

When backpacking Europe, a 30-50 liter backpack is ideal. This gives you enough room for clothes, toiletries, travel accessories, and souvenirs without being too big and bulky.

Weight

Consider buying a lightweight backpack for your travels between cities, especially if you plan on taking a train or a bus between them. When you’re carrying a pack that weighs over 5 pounds all day, you may get tired of carrying it.

Comfort

The backpack should have thick, padded shoulder straps and a ventilated or padded back panel. This helps reduce sweat and strain on your shoulders/back.

Durability

Ensure you choose a durable backpack made of nylon or polyester rip-stop material. Trains and planes always throw these around so they can withstand the abuse.

Security

Pickpockets are kept from the coat by locking zippers, slash-proof fabric, and anti-theft pockets.

Waterproof

A waterproof cover or water-resistant fabric will protect your belongings if caught in the rain.

With these factors in mind, let’s look at the top backpacking backpacks for Europe!

Best Backpacks under $100

If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry. You can still find great quality backpacks for under $100. Here are my top 3 picks:

10. KAKA Travel Backpack

• Product Dimensions: ‎9 x 12.6 x 21.6 inches
• Weight: 3.68 Pounds
• Color: Brown
• Department:‎ ‎Adult
• Model Number: N/A

Overview

The KAKA Travel Backpack is a 30L backpack perfect for weekend and light travel. It’s designed for both men and women with an adjustable strap design that fits a wide range of torso lengths.

With dimensions of 9 x 12.6 x 21.6 inches and a weight of 3.68 lbs, this backpack is lightweight and compact enough to carry. It comes in a classic brown color that fits in as an urban travel bag or outdoor pack.

Features

• Padded shoulder straps and back panel for comfort
• Front pocket and main compartment with organizer sections
• The laptop sleeve fits 15″ laptops
• A luggage strap allows attaching to suitcases
• Water-resistant polyester fabric

Pros

• Lightweight and comfortable to carry
• Great organization with multiple compartments
• It fits under airplane seats as a carry-on
• Can attach to rolling luggage
• Budget-friendly price under $50

Cons

• Limited capacity at 30L
• Not ideal for hiking or heavy-duty activities
• The hip belt and sternum strap are thin and flimsy
• Water-resistant fabric but not fully waterproof

Overall, the KAKA Travel Backpack is a lightweight, affordable weekend backpack suitable as an airplane carry-on bag for short trips. The storage space is limited for extended travel.

Rating: 4.6/5 based on 2690+ reviews

9. WITZMAN Travel Backpack for Men Women Carry on Luggage

• Product Dimensions: ‎11.5 x 8 x 18.5 inches
• Weight: ‎3.09 Pounds
• Color: 22.5 Inch Brown
• Department: ‎Unisex-adult (novelty and luggage only)
• Model Number: A2020BROWN

Overview

The WITZMAN Travel Backpack is a 45L unisex carry-on backpack suitable for weekend getaways and short trips. With dimensions of 11.5 x 8 x 18.5 inches, it fits in most airline overhead compartments.

Weighing 3.09 lbs, it’s lightweight and won’t weigh you down. This pack comes in a classic brown color and is designed for both men and women.

Features

• Lockable zippers for security
• Luggage sleeve to slide over suitcase handles
• Multiple organizers and a laptop sleeve
• Foam padded shoulder straps for comfort
• Water-resistant polyester fabric

Pros

• Carry-on size great for air travel
• Lockable zippers deter theft
• Shoulder straps and back padding for comfort
• Excellent organization with multiple compartments
• Affordable price under $50

Cons

• No internal frame so can’t handle very heavy loads
• The laptop sleeve fits only 13″ laptops
• No hip belt or sternum strap
• Side water bottle pockets are small

The WITZMAN Travel Backpack is a solid bang-for-your-buck carry-on backpack for short trips and weekend getaways. The capacity is limited for extended international travel.

Rating: 4.6/5 based on 2450+ reviews

8. Large Travel Backpack for Women, Carry On Backpack

• Product Dimensions: 8.7 x 13 x 17.7 inches
• Weight: 3.19 pounds
• Color: D6-mint Green
• Department: Womens
• Model Number:‎ 916904

Overview

This is a 40L travel backpack designed specifically for women. With dimensions of 8.7 x 13 x 17.7 inches, it fits carry-on size requirements for most airlines. The pack comes in a stylish mint green color and weighs 3.19 lbs.

Features

• Padded shoulder straps and back panel
• Laptop sleeve and tablet sleeve
• Front organizational panel
• Luggage strap to attach to rolling suitcases
• Lightweight and durable fabric

Pros

• Roomy 40L capacity for short trips
• Padded straps and back panel for comfort
• Perfect carry-on size for air travel
• Laptop and tablet sleeves for electronics
• Luggage strap adds convenience

Cons

• No hip belt or sternum strap
• Rain cover not included
• Bottle pockets are small
• Top loading only, no panel access
• Fabric is water resistant but not waterproof

Overall this is a solid carry-on backpack for women looking for comfort, organization, and stylish design for short trips and weekends away. The capacity is limited for extended international travel.

Rating: 4.6/5 based on 830+ reviews

Best Backpacks $100-$300

With a budget between $100-$300, you can get a high-quality backpack with tons of features perfect for backpacking Europe. Here are my top mid-range picks:

7. Osprey Farpoint Trek 55 Men’s Travel

• Product Dimensions: ‎28 x 15 x 6 inches
• Weight: ‎‎4.23 Pounds
• Color: Black
• Department:‎ ‎‎Adult
• Model Number: ‎Farpoint Trek Pack 55

Overview

The Osprey Farpoint Trek 55 is a 55L travel backpack designed for men. With dimensions of 28 x 15 x 6 inches, it provides a large capacity for extended trips while meeting carry-on size limits. This pack weighs 4.23 lbs and comes in classic black.

Also check out our comparison article on the two Osprey Backpacks that are famous. Osprey Daylite Vs Osprey Daylite Plus.

Features

• LightWire alloy frame transfers weight to hips
• A padded harness and mesh back panel for ventilation
• Lockable sliders on the main zipper for security
• Removable daypack that attaches to the front
• Stowaway backpack straps for duffel-style carry

Pros

• Large 55L capacity for extended travel
• Excellent ventilation and load transfer to hips
• Lockable zippers deter theft
• A removable daypack adds versatility
• Carry-on sized but spacious

Cons

• No internal compartments or laptop sleeve
• Raincover not included
• Heavier than other travel packs
• Expensive $200+ price tag
• The plain black color lacks style

Overall, the Osprey Farpoint Trek 55 is a high-quality and comfortable travel backpack with a large capacity, breathable back panel, and handy daypack. The high price and lack of organization pockets are downsides to consider.

Rating: 4.8/5 based on 8 reviews

6. Osprey Porter 46L Travel Backpack

• Product Dimensions: 21.5 x 14 x 9 inches
• Weight: 3.26 pounds
• Color: Haybale Green
• Department:‎ Unisex-adult
• Model Number:‎ 10002752

Overview

The Osprey Porter 46L is a 46 liter travel backpack designed for both men and women. Its dimensions of 21.5 x 14 x 9 inches provide ample capacity while fitting most carry-on size restrictions. This pack weighs 3.26 lbs and comes in an earthy green color.

Features

• StraightJacket compression straps
• Padded side and front panels
• Lockable zippers for security
• Front daisy chain attachments
• Stowaway backpack straps

Pros

• Durable and water-resistant nylon fabric
• Padded back panel and shoulder straps for comfort
• 46L roomy capacity for short trips
• Lockable zippers deter theft
• Carry-on size for air travel

Cons

• No internal compartments or laptop sleeve
• No hip belt or sternum strap
• Plain green color lacks style
• Not ideal for heavy loads or hiking
• Expensive $140+ price tag

The Osprey Porter 46L backpack has a capacity of 46 liters, padded straps, and a retractable handle. Travelers may find it a drawback that there aren’t any pockets for organizing their belongings or sleeves for their laptops.

Rating: 4.8/5 based on 210+ reviews

5. Osprey Europe Men’s Farpoint Trek 75 Backpack

• Product Dimensions: ‎30 x 15 x 6 inches
• Weight: 4.63 pounds
• Color: Muted Space Blue
• Department:‎ Mens
• Model Number: ‎10003694

Overview

The Osprey Farpoint Trek 75 is a large 75L travel backpack designed for men. Its dimensions of 30 x 15 x 6 inches provide a spacious capacity while still meeting carry-on restrictions. This pack weighs 4.63 lbs and comes in a sleek blue color.

Features

• LightWire frame transfers weight to hips
• Adjustable harness and mesh back panel
• Lockable sliders on the main zipper
• Removable daypack that attaches to the front
• Padded hip belt and harness

Pros

• Huge 75L capacity for extended travel
• The lightweight frame carries heavy loads well
• Lockable zippers deter theft
• A removable daypack adds versatility
• Excellent ventilation on the back panel

Cons

• Very large and heavy when fully packed
• No internal compartments or laptop sleeve
• Bulky for use as a daily city backpack
• Expensive $200+ price tag
• Plain blue color lacks style

The Farpoint Trek 75 is ideal for ultralight backpackers needing max space for extended trips. The lack of organization and laptop storage are downsides for urban travel.

Rating: 4.9/5 based on 10 reviews

Premium Brands (Gregory & Osprey)

For extended backpacking trips or hiking the Camino de Santiago, it’s worth investing in a high-end backpack. Here are my top premium pack picks:

4. Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

• Product Dimensions: 24 x 13 x 4 inches
• Weight: ‎4.23 pounds
• Color: Black
• Department:‎ Unisex-adult
• Model Number: ‎10003321

Overview

The Osprey Farpoint 55 is a 55-liter backpack for both men and women. With 24 x 13 x 4 inches, it provides ample space while meeting carry-on size restrictions for most airlines. This pack weighs 4.23 lbs and comes in classic black.

Features

• LightWire frame transfers weight to hips
• Mesh back panel creates ventilation
• Lockable sliders on the main zipper
• The zip-off daypack can attach to the front
• A padded harness and hip belt

Pros

• Roomy 55-liter capacity
• The lightweight frame carries heavy loads
• Lockable zippers deter theft
• A removable daypack adds versatility
• Mesh back panel prevents sweaty back

Cons

• No internal compartments or laptop sleeve
• Large and heavy when fully packed
• Plain black color lacks style
• Hipbelt can dig into sides when tight
• Expensive $200+ price tag

The Farpoint 55 is a high-quality, comfortable backpack with space for extended trips. The lack of organization and laptop storage are downsides to consider.

Rating: 4.6/5 based on 290+ reviews

3. Osprey Aether 65 Men’s Backpacking Backpack

• Product Dimensions: 31.5 x 15.75 x 11.02 inches
• Weight: 4.92 pounds
• Color: Deep Water Blue
• Department:‎ Unisex-adult
• Model Number:‎ 10002874

Overview

The Osprey Aether 65 is a 65 liter backpacking backpack designed for men. Its dimensions of 31.5 x 15.75 x 11.02 inches provide ample space for multi-day hiking and camping trips. This pack weighs 4.92 lbs and comes in a vibrant blue color.

Features

• Anti-Gravity suspension system
• Removable floating top lid
• Front stretch mesh pockets
• Zippered hip belt pockets
• Sleeping bag base compartment

Pros

• Large 65L capacity for backpacking
• Comfortable suspension transfers weight
• Front stretch pockets for quick access
• The removable lid converts to a daypack
• Hipbelt pockets handy for snacks

Cons

• Heavy at nearly 5 pounds
• Expensive $270+ price tag
• No internal organization pockets
• Bulky for airplane carry-on use
• Raincover not included

The Aether 65 is an excellent heavy-duty backpack for multi-day backpacking and hiking trips. The lack of organization pockets and laptop sleeves make it less ideal for travel and urban use.

Rating: 4.7/5 based on 39 reviews

2. Gregory Mountain Products Miwok 32 Hiking Backpack

• Product Dimensions: ‎22.83 x 11.42 x 5.91 inches
• Weight: ‎2.24 Pounds
• Color: Flame Black
• Department:‎ Adult
• Model Number: Miwok 32

Overview

The Gregory Miwok 32 is a 32-liter capacity hiking backpack designed for men and women. Its dimensions of 22.83 x 11.42 x 5.91 inches make it a compact and lightweight pack at just 2.24 lbs. This pack comes in a bright red and black color scheme.

Features

• Breathable mesh back panel and shoulder harness
• Integrated rain cover
• Front stretch mesh pocket
• Trekking pole attachments
• Hydration sleeve and port

Pros

• Ultralight 2.24 lb weight
• Mesh back panel prevents sweaty back
• Rain cover included for downpours
• Trekking pole attachments are handy
• Compact size great for day hikes

Cons

• Small 32L capacity
• No hip belt or load lifters
• Minimal organization pockets
• Not suited for heavy loads
• Rain cover can rip easily

Overall, the Miwok 32 is an excellent ultralight day hiking backpack. The small capacity and lack of weight transfer make it less ideal for multi-day backpacking trips.

Rating: 4.5/5 based on 45 reviews

1. Gregory Men’s Paragon 58

• Product Dimensions: 23.62 x 14.17 x 9.06 inches
• Weight: 3.47 Pounds
• Color: Burnt Olive
• Department: Mens
• Model Number:‎ 126846-2099

Overview

The Gregory Paragon 58 is a 58 liter backpacking backpack designed for men. With dimensions of 23.62 x 14.17 x 9.06 inches, it provides ample capacity for multi-day hiking and camping. This pack weighs 3.47 lbs and comes in an earthy green color.

Features

• adjustable suspension system
• zippered side U-shaped access
• sleeping bag compartment
• hydration sleeve and port
• mesh back panel and hipbelt

Pros

• Lightweight at 3.47 lbs
• U-shaped access makes packing easier
• Mesh back panel prevents sweaty back
• Hipbelt and harness are very comfortable
• 58L capacity for multi-day trips

Cons

• Expensive at $300+
• No internal organization pockets
• Hipbelt pockets are small
• Side bottle pockets are tiny
• Raincover not included

The Gregory Paragon 58 is a top-notch ventilated backpack suitable for extended backpacking and hiking trips. The lack of organization pockets is a downside.

Rating: 4.6/5 based on 16 reviews

FAQs About Backpacks for Europe

What is the best backpack size for traveling Europe?

A 30-50 liter backpack is ideal for backpacking across Europe. This capacity allows you to pack clothes, toiletries, travel accessories, and souvenirs without being too bulky.

Are backpacks safe for traveling in Europe?

Backpacks are quite safe for Europe since you can keep valuables close to your body. Just be sure your backpack has lockable zippers and anti-theft features. Always keep an eye on your bag in crowded areas.

How should I pack my backpack to avoid back pain?

Pack heavy items near the middle or top of your backpack to keep the weight centered on your hips. The hips can carry weight easier than the shoulders. Also, don’t overstuff the pack – leave room to balance the weight.

Are wheeled backpacks better for Europe travel?

Wheeled backpacks are okay for some, but most travelers prefer a standard backpack. Wheels don’t work well on cobblestone streets and stairs. Backpacks keep your hands free and are easier to lift in transit.

Can I use a backpack as a carry-on when flying in Europe?

You can use a backpack as a carry-on for flights within Europe if it’s under the size limits (usually 40-45 liters). This lets you skip waiting at baggage claim!

Be Prepared For Your European Backpacking Adventure!

No matter which of these top backpacks you choose, you’ll be prepared for an epic backpacking adventure across Europe! Your backpack is crucial, so don’t just choose any old one.

I especially love the Gregory, Osprey, and Deuter packs for their quality, reputation, and carrying comfort. But any of my top 10 picks will serve you well on the road.

Have an amazing trip filled with beautiful sights, new friends, and amazing memories! Let me know if you have any other backpack questions. I’m happy to help fellow travelers.

Final Verdict

After reviewing all the top backpack for backpacking in Europe, the clear winner in terms of quality, comfort, and value is the Osprey Farpoint 55. This 55L pack hits the spot between capacity, carry comfort and features.

The Farpoint 55 stands out for its lightweight but supportive internal frame that transfers pack weight to the hips. The mesh back panel and harness provide exceptional ventilation to prevent a sweaty back. Small but handy features like the lockable zippers, removable daypack, and stowaway straps add value.

While the Farpoint 55 doesn’t have the organization of a dedicated travel pack, the cavernous main compartment has ample space for clothing, gear, and souvenirs. The simplicity makes it versatile for hiking, camping, and adventure travel.

The larger Osprey Aether AG 65 is worth the upgrade for extended trips. Its Anti-Gravity suspension system makes carrying heavy loads almost effortless. The front stretch mesh pockets and removable daypack lid provide easy gear access.

The TETON Sports Explorer 4000 on a budget provides an impressive 55L capacity under $100. Despite the low cost, it has thick padding, a rain fly, and daisy chains for attaching gear. Just expect cheaper materials compared to pricier models.

When choosing the right backpack, focus on your intended activities, ideal capacity, and length of the trip. If hiking is the priority over travel, go for a technical hiking pack like the Osprey Aether AG. A panel loader like the Osprey Farpoint Travel is easier to pack for urban trips.

No matter which you choose, you really can’t go wrong with Osprey, Gregory, or Deuter if your budget allows. Companies like TETON and Mardingtop offer great value for budget backpackers. Have an amazing trip in Europe!