Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on selecting the best travel backpack for women. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a weekend warrior, or someone preparing for their first big adventure, finding the perfect travel backpack can make or break your trip.
A travel backpack is more than just a bag; it’s your mobile home, a place where you keep all your essentials.
In this article, we will be diving deep into some of the best women’s travel backpacks available on the market. From features like laptop compartments to padded shoulder straps, we’ve got you covered.
Why a Travel Backpack Over Other Types of Travel Bags?
Ease of Movement: Rolling luggage might seem convenient, but there’s nothing more cumbersome than dragging a rolling suitcase up a flight of stairs or through cobblestone streets. Travel backpacks offer more freedom of movement.
Storage Space: Most travel backpacks are designed with a variety of pockets and compartments, giving you ample storage space for all your belongings.
Versatility: Whether you’re going on extended trips or a weekend getaway, a travel backpack serves as a versatile bag that can adapt to any situation.
What to Look for in a Travel Backpack for Women
Size Backpack
The first thing to consider is the size of the backpack. For shorter trips, a 25-35L backpack might suffice. For longer journeys, you might require a 40-50L bag.
Main Compartment
The main compartment should be spacious enough to hold most of your items. Features like a zippered pocket can be useful for separating items.
Laptop Compartment
A separate laptop compartment is essential for those who need to work while on the go or enjoy streaming during downtime. Ensure that the laptop sleeve is padded for extra protection.
Padded Shoulder Straps
Padded shoulder strap can significantly improve the comfort level, especially during long walks or transits.
Water-Resistant Fabric
Whether it’s a sudden downpour or a spilled drink, having a travel backpack made of water-resistant material can be a lifesaver.
Additional Features
- Padded Laptop Sleeve: Extra cushioning for your electronics.
- Exterior Pockets: Quick access to essential items.
- Breathable Shoulder Straps: Enhanced comfort for longer journeys.
- Luggage Strap: For attaching your backpack to rolling luggage.
Review Section: 7 Best Travel Backpacks for Women
1. Osprey Fairview: The All-Rounder
The Osprey Fairview is more than just a travel backpack; it’s an experience in itself. The brand Osprey has a long-standing reputation in crafting durable and functional backpacks, and the Fairview stands out particularly for women travelers.
The Fairview boasts a streamlined design that’s built for the urban explorer and the wilderness adventurer alike. Its slim profile ensures you aren’t weighed down unnecessarily, and it’s available in a range of colors that cater to both subtle and vibrant tastes.
Comfort & Fit
One of the standout features of the Fairview is its specially designed women’s fit. The backpack comes with a harness and hip belt that are specifically tailored for a woman’s shape, ensuring maximum comfort during extended wear.
The mesh back panel promotes ventilation, keeping you cool during those intense travel moments.
Storage & Compartments
Osprey has made no compromises in storage options. The main compartment is spacious, with internal compression straps to hold your gear securely.
The zippered pocket is an excellent touch, allowing for the separation of items such as toiletries or delicate electronics. The external dual mesh front pockets are perfect for storing water bottles or quick grab items.
Durability & Protection
The Fairview isn’t just about comfort and style; it’s built to last. The backpack is crafted with a durable nylon material, ensuring it withstands the rigors of travel.
The water-resistant feature isn’t just a mention on the label; it genuinely ensures your belongings are safe from unexpected splashes and rain showers.
Additional Features
- Travel Ready: The Fairview is designed for globe-trotting. It includes features like a stowaway back panel, harness, and hip belt, which make it easy to store in overhead compartments or under seats.
- Dual Front Compression Straps: These straps help to keep the bag compact, even when it’s packed full.
- Removable Daypack: Some versions of the Fairview come with a detachable daypack – perfect for day trips once you’ve reached your destination.
Price Point & Value
While the Osprey Fairview falls in the mid-to-high price range, the value it offers in terms of durability, functionality, and comfort makes it a worthy investment.
It’s not just a purchase; it’s a long-term travel companion.
2. The North Face Recon: For the Adventurous
The North Face, a brand synonymous with outdoor adventures, brings forth the Recon—a backpack designed for the adventurous at heart and built for resilience.
Let’s dive deeper into the features and facets of this versatile travel backpack.
Design & Aesthetics
With a rugged design that echoes the essence of outdoor exploration, the Recon seamlessly integrates function with style.
It’s available in a variety of shades, from earthy tones for the traditionalist to vibrant hues for those wanting a pop of color on their journeys.
Comfort & Fit
The Recon has been constructed keeping in mind long days and longer trails. Its padded shoulder straps are contoured for a natural fit, minimizing strain. The breathable mesh back panel is a boon for sweaty treks, ensuring optimal air circulation and reducing discomfort.
Storage & Compartments
Space is aplenty with the Recon. The main compartment is expansive, designed to accommodate bulky items. The dedicated laptop pocket is a thoughtful touch for the modern adventurer.
The exterior pockets are especially handy for storing items needed at a moment’s notice, and the water bottle pockets ensure hydration is always within arm’s reach.
Durability & Protection
Built for the rough and tumble of the outdoors, the Recon promises durability. Its high-denier polyester construction makes it resistant to abrasions and minor tears. The water-resistant feature stands true to its word, guarding your essentials against rain showers and accidental spills.
Additional Features
- FlexVent™ Suspension System: This patented design offers custom-fit injection-molded shoulder straps and a padded mesh back panel with a spine channel for maximum support and ventilation.
- Reflective Elements: For those who love early morning hikes or late-night strolls, the reflective elements on the bag provide visibility in low-light conditions.
- Removable Waist Belt: While the waist belt provides additional support, especially during hikes, the fact that it’s removable offers flexibility for urban travels.
Price Point & Value
The North Face Recon offers a balance between affordability and value. While it might be a tad pricier than some entry-level backpacks, the range of features, coupled with the brand’s reputation for durability, makes it a worthwhile investment.
3. Tumi Voyageur Carson: Elegance Meets Functionality
Tumi, a brand recognized for its merger of sophistication with practicality, presents the Voyageur Carson—a backpack designed for the modern woman who values both form and function.
Here’s an in-depth look at what the Voyageur Carson has in store for its discerning users.
Design & Aesthetics
Crafted with an eye for elegance, the Voyageur Carson exudes a sense of refined luxury. Its sleek silhouette, combined with minimalist design elements, is a testament to Tumi’s commitment to understated style.
Available in a range of muted and classic colors, this backpack complements a variety of wardrobes, making it suitable for both business trips and leisurely getaways.
Comfort & Fit
Understanding the needs of the modern traveler, Tumi ensures that the Voyageur Carson is not just about looks. The padded shoulder straps are designed for prolonged wear, reducing strain on the shoulders.
The ergonomic back design contours to the shape of the spine, ensuring comfort even during long travels.
Storage & Compartments
With the Voyageur Carson, organization is key. The main compartment, spacious and thoughtfully designed, allows for efficient packing of clothing and essentials. The dedicated laptop compartment is an indispensable feature for the working woman on the move.
The front zipper pocket, ideal for quick-access items, and the special padded pocket for fragile items are both functional and practical additions.
Durability & Protection
Constructed from high-quality materials, the Voyageur Carson is designed to withstand the rigors of travel. While it might not have a fully water-resistant exterior, the backpack offers a degree of protection against light rain showers and accidental spills.
The zippers, often a point of vulnerability in many bags, are robust and built to last.
Additional Features
- Add-a-Bag Sleeve: A feature that frequent flyers will appreciate, the Add-a-Bag sleeve allows the backpack to be securely stacked atop rolling luggage for ease during transit.
- Multiple Interior Pockets: Perfect for the meticulous organizer, these pockets allow for the segregation and easy access of items like cosmetics, chargers, and stationery.
- Leather Accents: Adding a touch of opulence, the leather trims and accents elevate the aesthetic appeal of the backpack, making it truly stand out.
Price Point & Value
Tumi’s Voyageur Carson, given its brand lineage and feature set, sits on the higher side of the price spectrum.
However, for those willing to invest in a blend of luxury and utility, this backpack offers solid value for money.
4. Fjällräven Kånken Laptop Backpack: A Classic Reimagined
Hailing from the house of Fjällräven, a brand synonymous with enduring design and rugged functionality, the Kånken Laptop Backpack is a modern twist on an age-old classic.
Known for its iconic square design, the Kånken series has been loved by generations, and this version, tailored for the digital nomad, is no exception. Let’s delve deeper into what makes this backpack tick.
Design & Aesthetics
The timeless design of the Kånken is unmistakable. Retaining its iconic rectangular shape and minimalistic look, this version brings in subtle enhancements to cater to the tech-savvy generation.
Available in a rainbow of colors, from muted earthy tones to vibrant hues, there’s a Kånken for every personality.
Comfort & Fit
Fjällräven ensures that the style does not come at the cost of comfort. The Kånken Laptop Backpack sports padded shoulder straps, offering relief during prolonged wear.
The bag’s structure, although appearing rigid, conforms comfortably to the wearer’s back, making it suitable for everyday commuting as well as longer journeys.
Storage & Compartments
The standout feature of this reimagined classic is, undoubtedly, its dedicated laptop sleeve, designed to fit most 15-inch laptops securely. The main compartment remains spacious, catering to books, clothes, and other essentials.
The front zipper pocket and side pockets are ideal for smaller items and quick-access needs.
Sustainability & Materials
What sets this variant of the Kånken apart is its commitment to the environment. Crafted from Fjällräven’s proprietary Vinylon F, a robust and durable material, it gets an eco-friendly upgrade with the inclusion of recycled polyester.
This makes the backpack not only sturdy and water-resistant but also an eco-conscious choice.
Additional Features
- Dual Handles: Apart from being worn as a backpack, the Kånken comes with top handles, allowing it to be carried tote-style, adding a touch of versatility.
- Safety Reflective Logo: The iconic Fjällräven fox logo on the bag is reflective, ensuring safety during nighttime travels.
- Removable Seat Cushion: A quirk that longtime Kånken enthusiasts will recognize, the backpack includes a removable seat cushion, perfect for impromptu seating on the go.
Price Point & Value
Given its blend of style, functionality, and sustainability, the Kånken Laptop Backpack offers commendable value.
While it might be a bit pricier than generic backpacks, the brand’s reputation for longevity and quality justifies the investment.
5. Away — The Backpack: The Tech-Savvy Traveler’s Dream
Away is a brand that stands out for its dedication to creating luggage and travel accessories that resonate with the modern-day traveler. Their “The Backpack” is a testament to this commitment, balancing stylish aesthetics with unparalleled functionality.
Designed for the tech-savvy traveler who wants both form and function, let’s unpack what makes this backpack an exceptional travel companion.
Design & Aesthetics
Away has consistently championed minimalist designs with a premium feel, and “The Backpack” is no different. It showcases sleek lines, refined stitching, and a muted color palette that seamlessly fits into both urban and natural landscapes.
Its clean profile ensures it doesn’t look out of place whether you’re exploring a tech conference or a mountain trail.
Comfort & Fit
Comfort is paramount when it comes to travel gear, and Away has clearly paid attention to this aspect. “The versatile Backpack” features ergonomically designed padded shoulder straps that distribute weight evenly.
Moreover, the breathable mesh back panel ensures that travelers stay cool, reducing the sweat and discomfort that often comes with prolonged backpack usage.
Storage & Compartments
For the tech-savvy traveler, organization is key.
“The Backpack” comes with a generously padded laptop compartment, which can accommodate laptops up to 17 inches. One standout feature is the separate shoe compartment, ensuring your footwear stays isolated from electronics and clothes—a boon for those gym visits during business trips.
Quick access pockets make it easy to retrieve essentials without digging through the entire bag, while the padded pocket for fragile items gives travelers peace of mind, knowing their delicate gadgets or souvenirs are safe.
Water-Resistant Fabric
Travel can be unpredictable, and weather is no exception. The use of water-resistant fabric ensures that sudden downpours or accidental spills won’t catch you off-guard. Your belongings, especially tech gadgets, remain protected from the elements.
Additional Features
- Top Handle: A reinforced top handle provides an alternative carrying option, especially in crowded areas or when the backpack needs to be stowed overhead.
- Premium Zippers: High-quality zippers not only add to the backpack’s overall aesthetics but also ensure longevity and smooth operation.
- Expandable Side Pockets: Adjustable side pockets can accommodate water bottles of various sizes, ensuring hydration is always within arm’s reach.
Price Point & Value
Given its suite of features and the brand’s reputation for quality, “The Backpack” by Away offers a great value proposition.
It might command a premium price tag, but for those who value a mix of design, durability, and utility, this backpack proves to be a worthy investment..
6. Herschel Little America Backpack: A Nod to Vintage
Herschel Supply Co. has long been lauded for its timeless designs that evoke a sense of nostalgia while catering to contemporary needs.
Their “Little America” backpack, reminiscent of old-school mountaineering gear, is a clear manifestation of this ethos. However, it isn’t just about the looks—this backpack marries vintage charm with modern functionality, making it an excellent pick for a variety of travelers. Let’s delve into the details.
Design & Aesthetics
The “Little America” backpack’s design is influenced by the classic mountaineering silhouette, characterized by its iconic flap-top closure with magnetic strap fastenings and a drawstring cinch. It’s not just a fashion statement; the backpack exudes an adventurous spirit.
The signature Herschel woven label and metal hardware add to its vintage appeal.
Comfort & Fit
At its core, a travel backpack should be comfortable, and the “Little America” doesn’t disappoint. It boasts contoured, air-mesh padded shoulder straps, ensuring the weight is evenly distributed. Moreover, the padded and ventilated back panel minimizes sweat, enhancing the overall wearing experience, especially during long treks or city explorations.
Storage & Compartments
Beyond aesthetics, the “Little America” offers substantial storage options. The spacious main compartment, secured by the drawstring cinch, is perfect for packing clothes, books, and other bulkier items.
The backpack also includes an internal media pocket with a headphone port, allowing music enthusiasts to keep their devices safe while enjoying their favorite tunes on the go.
A standout feature is the padded, fleece-lined laptop sleeve which can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop. This ensures your tech gadget is snug and protected from potential bumps.
Water Bottle Pockets
Staying hydrated while traveling is crucial. The “Little America” backpack features water bottle pockets on both sides, ensuring you always have easy access to your drink.
Additional Features
- Magnetic Strap Closures: These not only enhance the vintage look but also provide quick access to the backpack’s contents.
- Front Pocket with Key Clip: A handy addition, this pocket allows you to keep smaller items organized and within reach, ensuring you never misplace your keys again.
- Durable Fabric: While not entirely water-resistant, the robust fabric can withstand daily wear and tear, making it a long-lasting companion for your adventures.
Price Point & Value
Considering its blend of design, comfort, and functionality, the “Little America” backpack offers excellent value for money. It might not be the most budget-friendly option, but its longevity and timeless appeal more than justify the investment.
7. Patagonia Women’s Paxat Backpack: The Eco-Friendly Choice
Patagonia, a brand synonymous with sustainable practices and environmental consciousness, offers the Women’s Paxat Backpack, which showcases their commitment not just to quality and functionality, but also to the planet.
Catering specifically to the needs and preferences of women travelers, this backpack provides a harmonious blend of style, comfort, and eco-friendliness. Let’s unpack its features.
Eco-Friendly Materials
One of the standout features of the Paxat Backpack is its fabric composition. Made from 100% recycled polyester, Patagonia ensures a reduced environmental footprint, resonating with travelers who prioritize sustainability.
The backpack also boasts a durable water repellent (DWR) finish, ensuring your belongings stay dry during those unexpected rain showers.
Comfort Tailored for Women
Understanding that comfort can be gender-specific, Patagonia has designed the Paxat with women in mind. It features a women’s-specific fit with curved shoulder straps that follow the contours of a woman’s body, ensuring minimal strain.
The back panel is also padded and designed to provide maximum airflow, reducing the likelihood of a sweaty back during prolonged usage.
Versatile Compartments and Pockets
The Paxat Backpack is more than just its eco-friendly materials; it’s a marvel of design when it comes to organization. The main compartment is spacious, offering enough room for clothes, books, and other travel essentials.
The padded laptop compartment is a boon for digital nomads, easily accommodating a 15-inch laptop and providing optimal protection.
In addition, smaller organizational pockets, including a zippered stash pocket, ensure that your smaller items like keys, pens, and notebooks have a designated space.
Breathable Shoulder Straps
For those long commutes or walks, the Paxat comes with breathable shoulder straps, enhancing comfort during prolonged usage. This is particularly beneficial in warmer climates or during strenuous activities like hiking.
Aesthetic and Design
While functionality is a clear focus, Patagonia doesn’t skimp on style. The Paxat Backpack sports a sleek design, suitable for both urban and natural landscapes.
Its minimalist exterior, complemented by the iconic Patagonia logo, ensures you travel in style without screaming for attention.
Durability and Warranty
Patagonia is known for its rugged designs meant to withstand the tests of time and adventure. The Paxat is no different. Moreover, the brand’s ironclad guarantee ensures that any defects in the backpack are addressed, emphasizing their commitment to quality.
How to Pack Your Travel Backpack
Main Compartment
Start with the heaviest items at the bottom of the main compartment. This includes shoes, toiletries, and any other larger items you might have. Make sure you use packing cubes or zippered pockets to organize smaller items.
Laptop Compartment
Place your laptop in its padded sleeve for added protection. Some travel backpacks come with removable hip belts that can help distribute the weight of the bag evenly, taking the pressure off your shoulders.
Front Zipper Pocket and Exterior Pockets
Use these pockets for items you need to access quickly, like your wallet, passport, and travel documents. Exterior pockets are great for water bottles or even an umbrella.
Additional Packing Tips
- Water-Resistant Covers: For added protection, use water-resistant covers or even waterproof materials to wrap sensitive items.
- Versatile Bag Choices: Consider a unisex travel backpack if you’re sharing the load with a partner.
- Personal Item: Always remember to have a personal item bag that fits under your airplane seat with essentials for the flight.
- Rolling Suitcase: If you’re planning to bring rolling luggage as well, make sure your travel backpack has a luggage strap to secure it on top of your suitcase.
Travel Backpack Features: Comparison Chart
To help you make a more informed decision, here’s a quick comparison chart that outlines the key features of the seven best travel backpacks for women we’ve reviewed.
So, which is better?
- For Versatility and All-Around Use: Osprey Fairview
- For Hiking: The North Face Recon
- For Luxury & Style: Tumi Voyageur Carson or Saddleback Leather Co. Front Pocket
- For Eco-Conscious Users: Fjällräven Kånken or Patagonia Women’s Paxat
- For Urban Style & Trendiness: Herschel Little America
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can a Travel Backpack Replace Rolling Luggage?
For those who prefer ease of mobility, a travel backpack can often replace rolling luggage. However, some travelers prefer to use a combination of both.
Many travel backpacks have a luggage strap that can attach to a rolling suitcase, offering the best of both worlds.
2. What is the Best Material for a Travel Backpack?
Water-resistant or waterproof materials like nylon and polyester are generally recommended. Some brands are now also offering recycled polyester as an eco-friendly option.
3. Are Laptop Compartments Necessary?
If you’re planning on carrying a laptop, a compartment specifically designed for it is essential. A padded laptop sleeve within that compartment provides extra protection.
4. How Important are Padded Shoulder Straps?
If comfort during travel is a priority, then padded shoulder straps are a must. For added comfort, look for travel backpacks with breathable shoulder straps.
5. What Should I Use the Exterior Pockets For?
Exterior pockets are handy for quick-access items like travel documents, snacks, and water bottles. Some travel backpacks even offer zippered pockets for added security.
Tips for Maintaining Your Travel Backpack
Water-Resistant Coating
To keep your backpack’s water-resistant properties intact, avoid washing it in a machine. Instead, opt for spot cleaning.
Storage Space
When not in use, store your travel backpack in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the integrity of its materials.
Regular Check-Ups
Before and after trips, check your backpack for any wear and tear, focusing on areas like shoulder straps, zippers, and seams. Doing so can extend the life of your travel backpack.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Selecting the best womens backpack isn’t just about aesthetics or brand names; it’s about finding a travel bag that can serve as an extension of yourself while you explore new horizons.
Whether you need a hiking backpack with water bottle pockets or a stylish travel backpack with a separate shoe compartment, the options are endless.
Our top pick for the most versatile travel backpack is the Osprey Fairview, which offers a blend of comfort, utility, and an affordable price point.
For the environmentally conscious, the Patagonia Women’s Paxat Backpack is an excellent choice, given its use of recycled polyester and water-resistant fabric.
Remember, your travel backpack will be your closest companion on your journeys. Choose wisely and travel freely.