travel backpacks - a carry-on backpack and a Macbook outdoors

19 Newest and Best Travel Backpacks for Digital Nomads (2022)

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updated Oct. 3rd, 2022

Now that most travel restrictions are lifted, you can now explore newer destinations to visit as a digital nomad.

Perhaps, you are also considering getting newer or better travel backpacks. And if you are a tech-savvy person, it’s important to have the best travel backpack that works for you. This means your laptop, tablet, mobile phone, and other essential items will need convenient carrying and storage solution.

In this article, we will guide you with tips and advice on how to select the ideal travel backpack that will meet your specific requirements as a digital nomad in our FAQ section.

We also have a list of the best backpack recommendation for you, all of which have received excellent reviews from frequent and tech-savvy travellers.

And to help you save time, we’ve divided our recommended backpacks into 3 categories. Our list is also constantly being updated as we review new bags on a regular basis.

Read on to explore more!

 


What are the best backpacks for travel?

Best backpacks for women

  1. Pacsafe Venturesafe G3 25L
  2. Tortuga Women’s Setout 45L
  3. Thule Landmark Travel Backpack
  4. Samsonite Women’s Mobile Solution Business
  5. Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Best backpacks for men

  1. NOMATIC Travel Pack – Anti-Theft
  2. Osprey Farpoint 40L
  3. YETI Crossroads Backpack 23L
  4. SwissGear 3258 Laptop Backpack
  5. Tortuga Men’s Setout Collection 45L

Best carry-on backpacks (unisex)

  1. Bellroy Transit 38L
  2. Pacsafe Metrosafe 25L
  3. Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L
  4. LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack
  5. YETI Crossroads Backpack 35L
  6. Travelon Urban Anti-Theft Backpack
  7. SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack
  8. Dinictis 40L Travel Laptop Backpack
  9. Hynes Eagle 42L Rolling Backpack

FAQs

 


For women

1. Pacsafe Venturesafe G3 25L

Pacsafe Venturesafe G3 Travel Backpack (blue)
Image source: Amazon.com

 

The Pacsafe Venturesafe G3 has some great security features that you will love. It has interlocking zippers and made from cut-resistant fabric. This backpack is also equipped with RFID blocking pocket to prevent unauthorized credit card scans.

This is a lightweight backpack with plenty of space for your jacket, personal items, and valuables, and it’s ideal for city tours. If you’re going to be in a crowded area, this backpack will protect your belongings from pickpockets.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Anti-theft features
•  Has 2 lockable zipper exterior pockets
•  Internal padded sleeve for a 15-inch macbook
•  Super comfortable padded & adjustable straps

Shortfall
•  The interlocking features might be a bit tricky for first-time users.

 

2. Tortuga Women’s Setout 45L

Tortuga Women's Setout 45L Women's Backpack
Image source: Amazon.com

 

The Setout backpack gives you quick and easy access to all your belongings. Its spacious and lie-flat design makes it simple to stay organised from the first to the last day of your trip.

This backpack is ideal for long-haul trips; with room to store 7+ days’ worth of clothing, toiletries, and other travel essentials.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Lie-flat design
•  Plenty of organized compartments for big and small items (laptops, clothing, shoes, phones, boarding pass, toiletries, etc)
•  Weather resistant
•  Easily tucked in straps and hip belt

Shortfall
• Rather pricey

 

3. Thule Landmark Travel Backpack

For trips lasting weeks or months, the Thule Landmark Travel Backpack has luggage-style reinforced compartments to keep your belongings and valuables safe as a carry-on.

You can quickly load and retrieve equipment thanks to its internal compression straps and suitcase-style opening.

This backpack is ideal for adventure travel and designed with women’s specific fit through the torso and hip belt. This carry-on backpack is also airline compliant.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Safety features – SafeZone Compartment, Hidden CashStash Pocket and Passive Lock System
•  Plenty of storage room to store your belongings and essential items for long-haul trips
•  Easily tucked in straps and hip belt

Shortfall
•  No outer mesh pockets
•  Rather pricey

 

4. Samsonite Women’s Mobile Solution Business

Samsonite Women's Mobile Solution Business
Image source: Amazon.com

 

If you’re looking to travel in style and/or are looking for a backpack that matches your luggage, this Samsonite Women’s Mobile Business backpack tops the list for it’s feminine-style and durable design.

On the interior, there’s plenty of room to store your mobile devices including up to 15.6″ laptops. Its exterior is made of water-resistant fabric.

What we love about this backpack?
  Durability & sleekness
•  SmartSleeve: easily fits over most upright luggage handles
•  Lightweight

Shortfall
  No extra outer pockets for smaller items.

 

5. Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack
Image source: Amazon.com

The Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack meets aircraft size requirements and the portable zipper opening makes it easier for you to breeze through airport security check.

This most recent model of Asenlin’s backpack is the product of countless improvements.

This bag is ideal for weekend travel or cross-border travel. The straps are well padded with air mesh. When not in use, you can hide it away and convert the backpack into a carry-on suitcase. How convenient!

What we love about this backpack?
•  Built with high-quality material
•  Plenty of storage space with 3 small portable bags included
•  Fits under the airplane seat nicely

Shortfall
•  Compression straps only holds the sides of the backpack
•  Not built with smaller pockets and items tend to slide down due to its deep pockets.

 


For men

1. NOMATIC Travel Pack – Anti-Theft

NOMATIC Travel Pack - Anti-Theft backpack for men
Image source: Amazon.com

If you’re a digital nomad who travels a lot, this backpack could be your best travel companion. The NOMATIC Travel Pack was created for everyday use.

Starting at 20L and expanding to 30L, this bag expands when you need to pack more. The adaptable strap system allows you to switch from backpack to briefcase carry for when you need to look more professional.

Magnetic waterbottle pockets, RFID safe storage, and hidden pockets are just a few of the 20+ noteworthy features that make this travel pack versatile.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Simple clamshell opening
•  Plenty of compartments to keep items well organized
•  Versatile
•  Durable & long-lasting

Shortfall
•  Pricey
•  This bag will be heavy when fully packed.

 

2. Osprey Farpoint 40L

Osprey Farpoint 40L
Image source: Amazon.com

The Osprey Farpoint 40 Men’s Travel Backpack is ideal for a weekend break in the city or the outdoors and is constructed to comply with the majority of airline and train carry-on regulations.

This backpack features an internal LightWire frame suspension system that aids in the transfer of load from the harness to the hip belt.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Large internal storage space enough to fit extra jacket and waterproof boots.
•  Internal and external straps that keeps your items secure while travelling.
•  Mesh pockets for small items, including a scratch-free pocket for your sunglasses or devices.

Shortfall
•  No hidden pockets for quick access to smaller items
•  Zippers are too close to one another
•  Quite pricey

 

3. YETI Crossroads Backpack 23L

YETI Crossroads Backpack 23L
Image source: Amazon.com

 

The 23-liter YETI Crossroads Backpack is made of durable materials and is designed for everyday use. If you need to work while camping or holidaying, this backpack will keep your belongings organised, close at hand, and comfortable enough to carry on any commute.

There are storage pockets at the top and side pockets to allow for quick and easy access to your belongings. Also included are laptop and tablet pockets with shock absorbing foam to protect your tech devices.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Stands up by itself when full or empty
•  Quick access tech and waterbottle pockets
•  Large storage space to keep your belongings from work to weekend trips.

Shortfall
•  Does not have airflow back padding

 

4.  SwissGear 3258 Laptop Backpack

SwissGear 3258 Laptop Backpack for men
Image source: Amazon.com

Guys, if you’re looking for a lightweight backpack that can keep all your tech and essential belongings intact, the SWISSGEAR 3258 will be your ideal go-to travel bag!

It is made of a tough, scuff-resistant polyester fabric and designed to fit most 17″ laptops and has a comfortable back panel with ergonomically shaped shoulder straps.

It also has a laptop only compartment in the back of the bag for superior portable computer protection. The bag also has an organiser compartment, a side water bottle pocket, a side zip accessory pocket, and a padded tablet slip pocket.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Plenty of storage space and pockets
•  ScanSmart and TSA-friendly features
•  Well-padded and ergonomically designed shoulder straps
•  Good quality zippers

Shortfall
•  The laptop compartment will be a bit tight for 17” laptops
•  Not suitable for long trips

 

 

5. Tortuga Men’s Setout Collection 45L

Tortuga Men's Setout Collection 45L
Image source: Amazon.com

 

The carry-on-sized Tortuga Men’s Setout travel backpack has space for clothing, toiletries, and other necessities for at least 7 days of travel. It unfolds flat like a suitcase for simple organisation and packing.

This backpack is made of tough, weather-resistant polyester fabric. Lockable YKK zippers, hideaway shoulder straps, and a convenient lie-flat stretch waterbottle sleeve round out this ideal carry-on.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Convenient – carry-on that packs like a luggage
•  Lockable zippers
•  Well designed and organized compartments for your big and small travel essentials.

Shortfall
•  Rather pricey
•  Bulky when fully packed and may not get pass airline carry-on size requirements

 


Best carry-on backpacks (unisex)

1. Bellroy Transit 38L

Bellroy Transit Backpack
Image source: Amazon.com

The Bellroy Transit backpack is a traveller’s favorite! This 38L backpack has a quick access 15″ laptop compartment for easy airport checks, as well as external-access pockets for storing your passport, wallet, sunglasses, water bottle, and other items.

It’s made of water-resistant, recycled woven fabric and comes with a 3-year warranty from Bellroy.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Comfortable to carry
•  Stylish and made from high-quality recycled fabric
•  Internal compression straps and mesh pocket
•  Has a right balance of large and small compartments to keep your belongings well organised.

Shortfall
•  Not suitable for long trips
•  Rather pricey

  

2. Pacsafe Metrosafe 25L

Pacsafe Metrosafe 25L - grey backpack
Image source: Amazon.com

The Pacsafe Metrosafe has the same anti-theft features as the other Pacsafe backpack models. This latest model, however, is better suited for daily commuters. It is lightweight, versatile, stylish and made for both men and women.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Anti-theft features
•  Lightweight and stylish design
•  Has 3 lockable zipper exterior pockets
•  Internal protective sleeve for a 15-inch macbook

Shortfall
•  Not weather-proof
•  Has no luggage strap
•  If you wear it all day, the padded back and shoulder straps may make you sweat.

 

3. Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L

Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L
Image source: Amazon.com

 

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is ideal for both men and women. From the fabric to the zippers, this backpack is weatherproof.

It features top and dual side access, hide away straps, anchor link key tether, external straps and Flexfold dividers to allow you to pack and organize your belongings neatly.

This backpack is especially suitable for photographers and videographers. Rest assured, you will have plenty of room to store and organize your tech gears in this bag.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Lightweight
•  Washable weatherproof fabric
•  Movable compartments with its Flexfold dividers
•  Quick access pockets for smaller items.

Shortfall
•  This model won’t fit larger laptop
•  The side access flaps do not open all the way
•  Rather pricey

 

4. LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack

LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack
Image source: Amazon.com

 

The LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack is ideal for business trips. This stylish backpack is designed with anti-theft features. With its password lock and anti-theft pockets, you can carry your belongings with this bag in crowded places and not worry about pickpockets.

There are numerous storage areas for your electronic devices, as well as dual side pockets for an umbrella and a waterbottle.

This backpack is made of tear-resistant and high-density nylon that is water-proof inside out.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Password lock and anti-theft pockets
•  Multi-functional
•  Affordable

Shortfall
•  Unsuitable for travels lasting longer than 7 days
•  The top handle straps could not be hidden away.

 

5. YETI Crossroads Backpack 35L

YETI Crossroads Backpack 35L
Image source: Amazon.com

 

YETI 35L Crossroads Backpack is ideal for day trips and weekend adventures that will keep all your belongings protected and organized. This compact bag can fit everything you need. Be sure to check out the video demo of this product on Amazon.

This bag is water and abrasion-resistant. The 180°, clamshell opening makes it easy to open backpack like a suitcase.

There is an easily accessible front vertical pocket for storing documents, itineraries, boarding passes and even some snacks. Another plus is the top-of-the-bag pocket, where you can keep smaller essentials like keys and wallet.

What we love about this backpack?
•  TSA certified carry-on
•  Exterior compression straps to carry additional items
•  Padded laptop sleeve that protects your laptop or iPad
•  Water and abrasion-resistant nylon fabric that’s also easy to clean.

Shortfall
• No extra padding on the shoulder straps. Might feel uncomfortable when carrying the bag in full load.

 

6. Travelon Urban Anti-Theft Backpack

Travelon Urban Anti-Theft Backpack
Image source: Amazon.com

 

The Travelon Urban Anti-Theft Backpack has a 5-Point Anti-Theft System to keep your belongings safe from bag slashers and pickpockets. This backpack has a lot of internal storage space, including laptop and iPad compartments.

If you’re looking for a travel backpack under $100 with anti-theft features and for light travel, Travelon is our top pick.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Waterproof
•  Large internal storage space
•  RFID blocking pockets
•  Made from durable and slash-resistant fabric

Shortfall
•  Not enough quick-access exterior pockets
•  The chest strap is too short
•  If you wear it all day, the padded back and shoulder straps may make you sweat.

 

7. SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack

SwissGear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack
Image source: Amazon.com

 

SWISSGEAR has always been known for its innovative design. This SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is definitely own of them. Made from durable polyester fabric this backpack is very comfortable to wear as a carry-on with its ergonomic and technologically advanced design.

This bag is equipped with ScanSmart and TSA-friendly technology. This means you can avoid the need to remove your laptop for scanning. The padded back panel is designed with Airflow technology that absorbs the weight of this backpack in full load.

What we love about this backpack?
•  ScanSmart and TSA-friendly features
•  Ergonomically contoured and padded shoulder straps
•  Breathable Airflow back panel

Shortfall
•  The laptop compartment will be a bit tight for 17” laptops
•  Not suitable for adventure trips as the bag isn’t weather resistant.

 

 8. Dinictis 40L Travel Laptop Backpack

Dinictis 40L Travel Laptop Backpack
Image source: Amazon.com

 

The Dinictis 40L Travel Laptop Backpack is versatile and has plenty of room to store tech and essential items for overseas travel, weekend and overnight trips. This bag is airline compliant and can be your convenient travel companion.

The backpack is made of high-density scratch and water-repellent polyester fabric, as well as explosion-proof SBS zippers.

Its laptop storage compartment has sponge pads with a fleece lining to protect your devices’ screen.

What we love about this backpack?
•  Water-resistant fabric
•  Multi-functional
•  Airline compliant
•  Suitable for 7-day Europe trips
•  Well organized compartments to store tech devices, clothes, toiletries and smaller items like keys and sunglasses.

Shortfall
•  No hip belt
•  The waterbottle pocket isn’t deep enough

 

9. Hynes Eagle 42L Rolling Backpack (hand-luggage)

Hynes Eagle 42L Rolling Backpack (hand-luggage)
Image source: Amazon.com

The Hynes Eagle 42L is carry-on luggage backpack that can fit in both the under-seat storage and the overhead bin because of its flight approved size.

If you prefer a carry-on luggage, this multi-functional wheeled backpack would be ideal for your business and international travel, and it is suitable for both men and women.

The backpack comes with detachable laptop sleeve keeps your laptop safe from scratches. If you prefer to carry this bag on your shoulders, there is an adjustable waist strap which you can use for added stability and comfort.

What we love about this backpack?
•  4 exterior compression straps
•  Padded backpack straps with air mesh
•  The padded and detachable laptop sleeve
•  Ideal for South East Asian and Europe trips
•  Plenty of storage space and pockets to store everything you need.

Shortfall
•  No exterior pockets
•  The 2 compartment zippers would not open all the way.

 

FAQs

What kind of backpacks are allowed on planes?

Most airlines allow luggage up to 22″ x 14″ x 9” (length x width x depth) or 55cm x 36cm x 23cm in size.
Your bag should not exceed these dimensions to avoid issues at the airport. Be sure to check the dimensions of the backpack before you buy.

Also, before flying, check your airline’s website for carry-on luggage size and weight guidelines. Budget airlines usually have stricter requirements, and in any case, carry-on size varies by airline.

 

What kind of backpacks should I choose?

You should consider getting a backpack based on your packing styles and trip lengths. Here are a few things to consider.

Travel duration

If you’re preparing for a lengthy trip lasting more than a month, a large carry-on travel bag is likely the right choice for you.

For shorter trips or if you frequently fly on budget airlines, consider a medium-sized (25-35L) carry on backpack.

Security

Your backpack’s security needs to be taken into account. Ensure that the bag isn’t easily opened and contains safe pockets to store your tech devices as well as some concealed zips.

Also, you should consider getting a backpack that will make it easier for you to get through the security checkpoints quickly and efficiently. Choose a checkpoint-friendly backpack with a lie-flat compartment to save time going through security.

Body size

Your body size is also an important factor to consider as the ideal fit is the key to a comfortable carry. So, keep ergonomics in mind and choose a backpack that adjusts to fit your body; especially the shoulder and chest straps.

The proper fit makes a significant difference in comfort. Women should also look for a travel pack designed specifically for them.

Lightweight

Airlines are becoming increasingly strict about the weight of carry-on bags. So, ensure that your backpack is lightweight to avoid having it weighed several times at the airport. You will also avoid the inconvenience of carrying extra weight.

Cost

A travel backpack that will serve all of your needs and last the test of time will be worth your investment. If you’re on a budget, there are also several options available in our recommended backpack list you can choose from that will meet your needs. Be sure to check them out.

We hope you enjoy this article and more importantly, may you have a safe and enjoyable travel experience as a digital nomad.

Thanks for reading!

 


Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. You can read more about our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.

 

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