Buying Guides

Best 10 Travel Backpacks for Different Trips in 2026: 9 Picks

Compare compact travel purses, packable daypacks, convertible bags, and laptop-ready backpacks to find the right fit for your trip.

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you.

The best travel backpacks vary from compact bags for essentials to roomier packs for laptops and day trips. Choose by what you need to carry, how you want to access it, and whether a backpack or convertible carry style suits your travel routine.

Quick Top Products

Packable Day Trip Pick

TRIPPED Travel Gear 35L Packable Travel Backpack

TRIPPED Travel Gear 35L Packable Travel Backpack
  • Folds down for packing and opens into a 35-liter daypack.
  • Padded perforated shoulder straps are designed for all-day carry.
  • Weighs 14 ounces and uses tear-resistant ripstop fabric.

Best For: Travelers who want a lightweight daypack to pack inside their main luggage and use at their destination.

Convertible Laptop Carry With Luggage Sleeve

Wrangler Backpack Messenger Bag 15.6 inch Briefcase Computer Backpacks

Wrangler Backpack Messenger Bag 15.6 inch Briefcase Computer Backpacks
  • Converts between backpack, shoulder bag, and top-handle handbag carry.
  • Padded section fits a laptop up to 16.5 inches.
  • Rear luggage sleeve slides over suitcase handles.

Best For: Travelers who want a padded laptop bag that switches between backpack, shoulder-bag, and handbag carry.

Lightweight Laptop Daypack

Montana West Western Travel Backpack

Montana West Western Travel Backpack
  • Fits a 15-inch laptop and weighs 0.83 pound.
  • Has six pockets, including front, back, and side pockets.
  • Made with waterproof material for work, daily use, and travel.

Best For: Travelers seeking a lightweight, western-style daypack with room for a 15-inch laptop.

Pocket-Rich Travel Daypack

Montana West Western Aztec Backpack

Montana West Western Aztec Backpack
  • Fits a 13-inch laptop and has six pockets.
  • Includes a main double-zip pocket, front pockets, back pocket, and side pockets.
  • Made from polyester and described as water resistant.

Best For: Travelers who want a lightweight, pocket-rich daypack with room for a 13-inch laptop.

Padded Laptop Compartment and USB Port

Montana West Wrangler Laptop Backpack with USB Port

Montana West Wrangler Laptop Backpack with USB Port
  • Padded compartment fits laptops up to 15.6 inches; a 17.3-inch laptop fits only in the main compartment.
  • USB cable holder supports an external connection; power bank and cable are not included.
  • Has thickened shoulder straps and a padded back.

Best For: Travelers carrying a laptop who want a padded compartment, cushioned straps, and an external USB connection.

Flap-and-Zip Convertible Carry

Montana West Convertible Crossbody Backpack

Montana West Convertible Crossbody Backpack
  • Adjustable strap converts between backpack and shoulder bag.
  • A flap and zipper closure provide two closure points.
  • Medium size is described as roomy enough for an iPad and makeup.

Best For: Travelers who want a medium faux-leather bag that switches between backpack and shoulder-bag carry.

One-Strap Pocket Organizer

Montana West Sling Convertible Backpack

Montana West Sling Convertible Backpack
  • One strap allows sling, crossbody, and backpack carry.
  • Includes a main pocket, front zipper pockets, and a back zipper pocket.
  • Made from vegan leather and weighs 1.09 pounds.

Best For: Travelers who prefer a compact one-strap bag with several zippered pockets and crossbody carry.

Convertible Purse With Padded Tablet Compartment

Wrangler Convertible Backpack Purse

Wrangler Convertible Backpack Purse
  • Can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag, or handbag.
  • Includes a padded compartment for a device up to 12 inches.
  • Has a back zipper pocket plus front, side, and interior storage.

Best For: Travelers who want a purse-style backpack with convertible carry and a padded tablet compartment.

Quick-Access Convertible Tote Backpack

Montana West Wrangler Convertible Cow Print Backpack

Montana West Wrangler Convertible Cow Print Backpack
  • Straps support single-shoulder, double-shoulder, and crossbody carry.
  • Open-top access is paired with a magnetic side clasp.
  • A rear zipper pocket provides separate storage.

Best For: Travelers who want an open-top bag with adjustable straps for shoulder, backpack, or crossbody carry.

Packable Day Trip Pick

TRIPPED Travel Gear Traveling Backpack- Foldable Collapsible Lightweight Backpack for Travel (Light Blue) 35 liters

TRIPPED Travel Gear 35L Packable Travel Backpack
Check Price on Amazon

This TRIPPED backpack is designed to travel as a secondary bag: it folds down for packing, then opens into a 35-liter daypack. Padded perforated shoulder straps and a luggage strap add practical carry details, while ripstop fabric is used for the body.

Storage includes multiple pockets and a microfiber top pocket for sunglasses. At 14 ounces, it is a light option for day trips or beach outings.

Its larger capacity than the mini purses in this guide makes it more useful for extra layers or daily essentials, though it is still a packable daybag rather than a structured laptop travel pack.

Best For: Travelers who want a lightweight daypack to pack inside their main luggage and use at their destination.

Pros Cons
  • Packable construction makes it easy to bring as an extra bag.
  • Multiple pockets include a microfiber top pocket for sunglasses.
  • Luggage straps support carrying it with travel luggage.
  • Not specified: whether the pack has a dedicated padded laptop compartment.

Choose this pack if you need a light, collapsible bag for outings after arrival. The 35-liter capacity gives it more room than a small purse, while its stated packable design helps it fit into a larger suitcase.

The notes mention pockets but do not identify a padded laptop sleeve, so check the interior layout if you plan to carry a computer. It suits flexible day use better than a trip where laptop protection is central.

Check Price on Amazon

Convertible Laptop Carry With Luggage Sleeve

Wrangler Backpack Messenger Bag 15.6 inch Briefcase Computer Backpacks

Wrangler Backpack Messenger Bag 15.6 inch Briefcase Computer Backpacks
Check Price on Amazon

This Wrangler bag combines convertible carry with a padded laptop section and a rear luggage sleeve. It can be worn as a backpack, shoulder bag, or top-handle handbag, and the sleeve slides over suitcase handles for travel.

The padded section fits a laptop up to 16.5 inches, while two inner side pockets and an exterior back pocket provide separate storage. At 16.5 by 10.5 by 5 inches, it has a substantial briefcase-style footprint.

Choose it if flexible carry and suitcase pairing matter, and check its dimensions and laptop compartment against your trip setup.

Best For: Travelers who want a padded laptop bag that switches between backpack, shoulder-bag, and handbag carry.

Pros Cons
  • Three carry modes adapt to different parts of a trip.
  • A padded laptop compartment is specified.
  • The luggage sleeve pairs the bag with rolling luggage.
  • Its 16.5 by 10.5 by 5 inch dimensions may be bulky for travelers seeking a compact daypack.
  • Not specified: the bag's weight.

Consider this option if you carry a laptop and want to change carry styles during a trip. The padded section has a stated maximum fit, and the rear sleeve helps pair it with a suitcase.

Its briefcase-like dimensions may take up more space than a compact destination daypack, so check how it fits your luggage and daily carry. The interior storage called out is limited to two side pockets, a padded section, and an exterior back pocket.

Check Price on Amazon

Lightweight Laptop Daypack

Montana West Backpack for Women Western Travel Backpack Purse Casual Daypack for Laptop College

Montana West Western Travel Backpack
Check Price on Amazon

This Montana West daypack pairs western styling with practical travel storage. It has a main double-zip pocket, two front pockets, a back zipper pocket, and two side pockets, giving smaller items places apart from the main compartment.

It fits a 15-inch laptop and weighs 0.83 pound. The material is described as waterproof, adding a useful detail for daily travel and commuting.

Its 11.4 by 5 by 15.5 inch approximate dimensions suit work, college, and day trips. Check the laptop fit and compartment protection if your computer needs more than an unpadded space.

Best For: Travelers seeking a lightweight, western-style daypack with room for a 15-inch laptop.

Pros Cons
  • Laptop capacity is specified up to 15 inches.
  • Multiple exterior pockets help separate travel essentials.
  • Its 0.83-pound weight supports lighter everyday carry.
  • Not specified: whether the laptop area has padding.

Pick this option if you want a conventional daypack that can carry a laptop and smaller travel items. Its six-pocket layout offers useful separation, and the product details give a laptop size and a light listed weight.

Padding for the laptop is not specified, so check the compartment's protection if you carry a computer frequently. The western styling and waterproof material description may suit travelers who want a distinctive bag for both daily use and trips.

Check Price on Amazon

Pocket-Rich Travel Daypack

Montana West Backpack Purse for Women Western Aztec Backpack Purse Lightweight Casual Daypack for Travel

Montana West Western Aztec Backpack
Check Price on Amazon

This Montana West backpack is a roomier, pocket-forward choice for work, travel, or daily use. It has one main double-zip pocket, two front pockets, a back zipper pocket, and two side pockets.

The notes say it fits a 13-inch laptop and call its polyester outer material water resistant. Its listed dimensions are 11.5 by 5 by 15.5 inches, with a weight of 0.7 kilogram.

That makes it a useful option when you want a recognizable daypack layout and separation for smaller belongings. Check the laptop compartment design before relying on it for padded computer protection.

Best For: Travelers who want a lightweight, pocket-rich daypack with room for a 13-inch laptop.

Pros Cons
  • Six pockets support sorting items for travel and daily use.
  • A laptop size is specified, up to 13 inches.
  • The bag is described as lightweight.
  • Not specified: whether the laptop area is padded.
  • The listing gives dimensions as 11.5 × 5 × 15.5 in one field and 11.5"D × 5"W × 15.5"H in another; confirm the preferred orientation before buying.

Choose this bag when access to several separate pockets matters and your laptop is within the specified 13-inch size. The layout provides front, back, side, and main storage, while the waterproof material wording offers a travel-use detail.

The notes do not identify a padded laptop sleeve, so compare its protection with a dedicated laptop backpack if your computer is a frequent passenger. Confirm how the dimensions are oriented if fit in a particular personal-item space matters.

Check Price on Amazon

Padded Laptop Compartment and USB Port

Montana West Wrangler Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port, Vintage Travel Work College Bookbag for Women Men

Montana West Wrangler Laptop Backpack with USB Port
Check Price on Amazon

This Wrangler backpack is aimed at work and travel with a laptop-focused layout. Its padded compartment fits laptops from 13 to 15.6 inches; a 17.3-inch computer fits only in the main compartment.

Thickened shoulder straps and a padded back add carry cushioning. A USB cable holder lets you connect a device outside the bag, but the power bank and cable are not included.

The faux leather exterior has a classic style, and the bag is described as not water resistant. Check which compartment fits your device and bring your own charging accessories if you plan to use the USB feature.

Best For: Travelers carrying a laptop who want a padded compartment, cushioned straps, and an external USB connection.

Pros Cons
  • The padded compartment has a specified laptop range.
  • Padded back and thickened straps add cushioning for carrying.
  • A USB cable holder provides an external connection point.
  • A 17.3-inch laptop fits only in the main compartment, not the padded compartment.
  • Power bank and cable are not included.
  • The product is described as not water resistant.

Select this backpack if your travel routine involves carrying a laptop in a padded compartment and you want an external USB cable holder. Check your laptop's actual size: the dedicated padded section tops out at 15.6 inches, while the 17.3-inch fit is only in the main compartment.

You will also need your own power bank and cable for the USB feature. Its faux leather styling and lack of water resistance are relevant considerations for rainy commutes.

Check Price on Amazon

Flap-and-Zip Convertible Carry

Montana West Backpack Purse for Women Casual Daypack Convertible Crossbody Backpack for Travel Work

Montana West Convertible Crossbody Backpack
Check Price on Amazon

This Montana West bag offers a changeable carry style in a medium format. Its adjustable strap converts the bag between backpack and shoulder-bag use, and a flap plus zipper closure adds two closure points over the main opening.

The 11.81 by 4.92 by 13.19 inch dimensions offer more room than a mini purse, with space for an iPad and makeup. Faux leather and smooth zippers give it a fashion-purse character.

Its two pockets and two compartments make for a simpler layout than multi-pocket daypacks, so consider whether flexible carry or detailed organization matters more to you.

Best For: Travelers who want a medium faux-leather bag that switches between backpack and shoulder-bag carry.

Pros Cons
  • Convertible carry offers backpack or shoulder-bag use.
  • Flap and zipper close over belongings.
  • Faux leather and smooth zippers are specified.
  • Two pockets and two compartments make for a simple organizer layout.

This bag makes sense if you want to alternate between backpack carry and a shoulder bag without switching bags. The flap and zipper close the opening, and the product details describe room for an iPad and makeup.

Its two-pocket, two-compartment layout is comparatively simple, so travelers who separate chargers, documents, and personal items into many dedicated sections may prefer a pocket-rich daypack. Check device fit and internal organization if those details shape your travel setup.

Check Price on Amazon

One-Strap Pocket Organizer

Montana West Convertible Backpack for Women Sling Bag with Vegan Leather Adjustable Sling Backpack Vintage Shoulder Purses for Women

Montana West Sling Convertible Backpack
Check Price on Amazon

This sling backpack uses one adjustable strap and can be carried as a shoulder sling, crossbody bag, or backpack. Its 7.5 by 4.5 by 13.5 inch size is narrow, making it better suited to essentials than bulky packing.

The storage layout includes a main pocket with an interior zipper pocket and two slot pockets, plus a buckle pocket, two front zipper pockets, and a back zipper pocket. It is made from vegan leather and weighs 1.09 pounds.

Choose it for compact organization and flexible carry, and check that its profile can hold the items you expect to keep close while traveling.

Best For: Travelers who prefer a compact one-strap bag with several zippered pockets and crossbody carry.

Pros Cons
  • Three carry styles are supported by its zipper strap.
  • Multiple pockets separate smaller travel essentials.
  • A back zipper pocket is identified as an anti-theft pocket.
  • Its 7.5-inch width gives it a narrow profile for bulkier items.
  • Not specified: whether it has a padded device sleeve.

Choose this sling if you favor one-strap access and want to wear the bag crossbody or as a backpack. Its zipper pockets can separate small essentials, and the rear pocket is identified for anti-theft storage.

Its dimensions make it a compact personal bag rather than a replacement for a larger travel pack. A padded device sleeve is not specified, so check the interior before carrying a tablet or other fragile electronics.

Check Price on Amazon

Convertible Purse With Padded Tablet Compartment

Wrangler Backpack Purse for Women Convertible Shoulder Handbag Travel Brown

Wrangler Convertible Backpack Purse
Check Price on Amazon

This Wrangler backpack purse is a medium bag with several ways to carry it: as a backpack, shoulder bag, or handbag. It has a padded compartment for a device up to 12 inches, along with a back zipper pocket, front pockets, side pockets, and interior compartments.

The product details describe room for books, an umbrella, sunglasses, or a cup. Its PU leather construction and lightweight feel suit a workday or city trip where a conventional hiking-style pack is not the desired look.

Check the device compartment size and bag measurements before purchase, since the product details give different dimension formats.

Best For: Travelers who want a purse-style backpack with convertible carry and a padded tablet compartment.

Pros Cons
  • Three carrying options adapt to travel and everyday use.
  • A padded device compartment is specified.
  • Several external and interior pockets support organization.
  • The padded compartment is limited to a device up to 12 inches.
  • The listing gives the bag's dimensions in two formats: 12 × 5 × 13 and 5"D × 5"W × 13.4"H. Confirm the measurements before purchase.

This is a practical pick for a traveler who wants a handbag look with backpack functionality and a small padded device space. Its three carry modes can suit a workday that includes transit and walking, while multiple outer and inner pockets help divide essentials.

The device compartment is specified for up to 12 inches, so larger laptops are not a fit based on the available details. Confirm dimensions and compartment layout if packing space is tight.

Check Price on Amazon

Quick-Access Convertible Tote Backpack

Montana West Wrangler Cow Print Backpack Purse for Women Vegan Leather Ladies Convertible Backpack Stylish Anti Theft Backpack with Adjustable Strap

Montana West Wrangler Convertible Cow Print Backpack
Check Price on Amazon

This Wrangler bag combines backpack, shoulder, and crossbody carrying with an open-top design. Its adjustable wide straps can be arranged for single-shoulder, double-shoulder, or crossbody carry, while a magnetic side clasp helps close the top and a rear zipper pocket offers separate storage.

At 11 by 6 by 12 inches, it has a medium purse-backpack profile. Quick access is its main convenience, though the main opening is secured with a magnetic clasp rather than a full zipper.

Consider what you carry and whether easy access or a fully enclosed main compartment better suits your travel day.

Best For: Travelers who want an open-top bag with adjustable straps for shoulder, backpack, or crossbody carry.

Pros Cons
  • Multiple strap arrangements allow flexible carry styles.
  • The open top supports quick access to items.
  • A rear zipper adds a separate storage area.
  • The main opening is open-top with a magnetic clasp rather than a full zipper closure.
  • Not specified: the number of interior pockets or compartments.

This option is for travelers who value quick access and several ways to wear a bag. The open top and magnetic clasp make the main compartment easier to reach than a fully zipped pack, while the rear zipper pocket offers separate storage.

The interior pocket count is not specified, so check the layout if you need to separate documents, chargers, and small items. Consider the open top when choosing what valuables to carry.

Check Price on Amazon

How to Choose Travel Backpacks

How We Picked Travel Backpacks

This selection focuses on bags with a clear travel use, such as a packable daybag, a laptop-carrying backpack, or a convertible bag suited to walking around a destination. We favored candidates with concrete details about carrying style, compartments, materials, or device fit.

Mini purse backpacks appear only as compact essentials options, not substitutes for a full travel pack.

The result is a set of distinct roles: the TRIPPED bag packs away for use at a destination, the Montana West daypacks offer pocket organization and laptop sizing, and the Wrangler styles shift between backpack and purse carry. Character school bags, duplicate offers, and bags with limited travel-specific fit were left out.

Comparing Travel Backpacks

The main distinction is capacity and structure. A packable 35-liter bag carries more than a mini purse but folds for transport; the laptop-ready daypacks keep a more conventional shape and identify a maximum device size.

The Wrangler laptop backpack has the most explicit computer protection details, including a padded compartment range and a separate USB cable holder.

Purse-style travel backpacks trade conventional pack organization for more flexible styling. The flap-closure Montana West converts between backpack and shoulder-bag use, while the Wrangler open-top model gives faster access and several strap configurations.

The sling pack is narrow and pocket-rich, making it appropriate for essentials carried close to the body.

ProductStandout featuresBest for
TRIPPED Travel Gear 35L Packable Travel BackpackCheck Price
  • Folds down for packing and opens into a 35-liter daypack.
  • Padded perforated shoulder straps are designed for all-day carry.
Travelers who want a lightweight daypack to pack inside their main luggage and use at their destination.
Wrangler Backpack Messenger Bag 15.6 inch Briefcase Computer BackpacksCheck Price
  • Converts between backpack, shoulder bag, and top-handle handbag carry.
  • Padded section fits a laptop up to 16.5 inches.
Travelers who want a padded laptop bag that switches between backpack, shoulder-bag, and handbag carry.
Montana West Western Travel BackpackCheck Price
  • Fits a 15-inch laptop and weighs 0.83 pound.
  • Has six pockets, including front, back, and side pockets.
Travelers seeking a lightweight, western-style daypack with room for a 15-inch laptop.
Montana West Western Aztec BackpackCheck Price
  • Fits a 13-inch laptop and has six pockets.
  • Includes a main double-zip pocket, front pockets, back pocket, and side pockets.
Travelers who want a lightweight, pocket-rich daypack with room for a 13-inch laptop.
Montana West Wrangler Laptop Backpack with USB PortCheck Price
  • Padded compartment fits laptops up to 15.6 inches; a 17.3-inch laptop fits only in the main compartment.
  • USB cable holder supports an external connection; power bank and cable are not included.
Travelers carrying a laptop who want a padded compartment, cushioned straps, and an external USB connection.
Montana West Convertible Crossbody BackpackCheck Price
  • Adjustable strap converts between backpack and shoulder bag.
  • A flap and zipper closure provide two closure points.
Travelers who want a medium faux-leather bag that switches between backpack and shoulder-bag carry.
Montana West Sling Convertible BackpackCheck Price
  • One strap allows sling, crossbody, and backpack carry.
  • Includes a main pocket, front zipper pockets, and a back zipper pocket.
Travelers who prefer a compact one-strap bag with several zippered pockets and crossbody carry.
Wrangler Convertible Backpack PurseCheck Price
  • Can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag, or handbag.
  • Includes a padded compartment for a device up to 12 inches.
Travelers who want a purse-style backpack with convertible carry and a padded tablet compartment.
Montana West Wrangler Convertible Cow Print BackpackCheck Price
  • Straps support single-shoulder, double-shoulder, and crossbody carry.
  • Open-top access is paired with a magnetic side clasp.
Travelers who want an open-top bag with adjustable straps for shoulder, backpack, or crossbody carry.

Choosing a Backpack for Travel Days

Start with the contents. A change of clothes or extra layers calls for more room than a passport, phone, and wallet.

The 35-liter packable TRIPPED bag is suited to day outings; the mini purses are explicitly sized for essentials. For electronics, compare the stated device size and compartment: the Montana West fashion daypack fits a 15-inch laptop, while the Wrangler padded section is specified up to 15.6 inches and its 17.3-inch fit is only in the main compartment.

Then consider how you'll move through the trip. A luggage strap can be useful when pairing the TRIPPED bag with a suitcase.

Convertible purse packs let you switch between shoulder and backpack carry, while a sling keeps essentials accessible on one strap. Check dimensions and pocket placement against the way you carry documents, chargers, and water before buying.

Laptop Backpacks and Device Protection

A maximum laptop size does not always mean the same level of protection. The Wrangler laptop backpack identifies a padded compartment and clarifies that a 17.3-inch laptop fits only in the main compartment.

The Montana West laptop daypack gives a 15-inch fit but does not specify a padded sleeve. The convertible Wrangler purse has a padded compartment for devices up to 12 inches.

If a computer is part of your travel kit, compare the compartment opening and padding with your device dimensions. Also account for accessories: the Wrangler USB feature needs a separately supplied power bank and cable.

For tablets and smaller electronics, a dedicated padded sleeve can matter more than extra outer pockets.

Picking Organization and Access

Multiple pockets help separate small essentials, but the arrangement matters. The Montana West daypacks have front, rear, side, and main storage.

The sling bag offers front and rear zipper pockets, while the mini Montana West purse has several compartments in a much smaller shape. Choose an arrangement that keeps frequently used items reachable without making the main compartment hard to pack.

Closure style also affects travel use. A flap plus zipper offers a more layered close, while the Wrangler open-top bag prioritizes quick access and adds a back zipper pocket.

The packable TRIPPED bag uses multiple pockets and a microfiber top pocket for sunglasses. Check whether the main opening and pocket locations suit the items you want close at hand.

Who Should Buy Which Travel Backpack

Choose the TRIPPED packable daybag if you need an extra destination bag that folds away. The Montana West backpack purse with a 15-inch laptop fit suits travelers who want a lightweight, pocket-rich daypack.

For a padded computer compartment and external USB connection, consider the Wrangler laptop backpack and plan to bring your own power accessories.

For a purse-like convertible, pick the Montana West flap-and-zip bag; for one-strap carry, consider the sling. The Wrangler open-top backpack fits travelers who value several carry styles and quick access.

Keep the mini Montana West options for days when a few essentials are enough, and compare their dimensions with your actual packing list.

Written by

sandiegobritishcarday.org Editorial Team

Editorial team

Independent editorial coverage of classic british cars.

Best overall

In a hurry?

Start with this pick, then check Amazon for available deals.

TRIPPED Travel Gear 35L Packable Travel Backpack

TRIPPED Travel Gear 35L Packable Travel Backpack

4.7/51,000+ ratingsRead Amazon Reviews ↗

Best for: Travelers who want a lightweight daypack to pack inside their main luggage and use at their destination.

Check for deals on Amazon