Best Travel Backpack for Women

Preparing to travel through rough terrain means purchasing a reliable backpack. You may be hiking the Appalachian trail, trekking across sand dunes in Colorado, walking across Death Valley, or even just backpacking through a new country; still, you will not make it far without a sturdy and spacious backpack.

 

Written by Echo Wang | Edited by Bianca Versoza

Preparing to travel through rough terrain means purchasing a reliable backpack. You may be hiking the Appalachian trail, trekking across sand dunes in Colorado, walking across Death Valley, or even just backpacking through a new country; still, you will not make it far without a sturdy and spacious backpack.

We’ve compiled a list of the very best backpacks for women, so you can choose one that best suits your needs. Every backpack is placed into a size category to help you determine which gear you should purchase before you embark on your next adventure.

Being informed about the details of your backpack is essential. At the end of each description, you will find three product details: the product’s capacity, its weight, and its dimensions. Every backpack on this list is a high-quality backpack, but some contain features that others do not possess.

As you peruse the list of the best travel backpacks for women, make sure to consider your specific needs and requirements. By being informed about your needs and the details of each bag, you will be able to choose the best gear for your upcoming hikes and explorations.

Carry-on Size: 30-40 Liter Packs

Going on a flight? These backpacks are under 40 liters, and most airlines will allow them on planes.

These are the best backpacks under 40 liters, which (while plenty large!) may not be big enough your particular needs. For other bags with higher capacities, please see the groups of packs below this particular list.

If you need two backpacks with different capabilities, you should compare and contrast the features of the packs on each list. The entire list divides the bags into groups based on specified features.

Now, let’s take a closer look at backpacks that are between 30-40 liters!

Fjallraven Travel Pack

The Fjallraven Travel backpack is a functional backpack. The pack contains cotton and recycled polyester. Every inch of the Fjallraven travel backpack features water-resistant material. This backpack’s most significant features are its strength and durability.

A secure laptop case inside the backpack fits laptops up to 15 inches in size. Also, the pack contains pocket sleeves for tablets, documents, and folders. If you are traveling through many airports, open the laptop compartment, and this will allow you to move through customs without digging through the other items in your backpack.

Primary sections of the back open up in shell style. These sections separate into multiple pockets. On the backpack’s bottom, a compartment contains a zipper pocket. Two small cases separate the backpack’s top area.

The easy organization promotes efficient traveling. The Fjallraven travel backpack contains two front pockets which help you access essential items.

Also, the Fjallraven backpack suits the female body. The men’s version is larger. The men’s version contains more extensive shoulder straps. Mesh covers the harness, and the shoulder straps can be removed and placed inside one of the pockets.

Pros

  • Optimized for organization
  • Shell shaped opening
  • TSA friendly

Cons

  • The Backpanel includes no ventilation
  • The price is high

Product Details

  • Dimensions: 46 x 32 x 27 cm
  • Weight: 1.65 kg
  • Capacity: 35 liters

SWISSGEAR 1900 Scansmart  TSA Laptop Backpack

The SwissGear backpack is a great carry-on backpack. This pack contains several components that can help you travel with electronics and other valuable items. The Swissgear 1900 Scansmart contains a specific container for electronics. The container can hold laptops up to 17 inches.

Users can adjust the ergonomic shoulder straps. The shoulder straps are padded and contain placeholders for sunglasses or eyeglasses. An Airflow panel with extra padding provides greater comfort to the user.

The Swissgear 1900 contains an excellent system of compartments and pockets. A headphone jack and a media section rest inside the main compartment. Small and large zipper pockets line the main area. These features will help users organize wireless accessories and batteries.

Four large compartments adorn the Swissgear 1900. These extra pockets will help you carry small and large items on your upcoming trips.

Pros

  • Strong organizing compartments
  • TSA friendly
  • Comfortable Airflow panel

Cons

  • No sternum strap
  • Smaller size

Product Details

  • Size: 31 liters
  • Weight: 3.2 lbs
  • Dimensions: 18.5” x 13.5 x 9”

The North Face Router

The North Face Router is a superb backpack for traveling and adventuring throughout many different environments. Users will be able to use this backpack on airplanes and camping sites. The North Face Router contains many valuable compartments and pockets. The North Face Router is a versatile backpack and performs well in all weather conditions.

The North Face Router contains no features specifically designed for women, and the backpack is not excessively large or heavy. Some women may prefer to find a pack more suitable to their specific needs.

A 17” compartment for laptops rests in the backpack. Substantial padding surrounds this compartment.

One internal zipped pocket rests inside the North Face Router’s central section. Users can place clothes or bulky items in the central section. The front compartment is also roomy and versatile. The North Face Router also contains a smartphone holder and a sleeve for your tablet.

Every North Face Router features FlexVent suspension. The North Face Router is a well-ventilated backpack that will not strain the body while users are hiking, climbing, or walking.

Pros

  • Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association
  • TSA friendly laptop sleeve
  • Superb organizational tools

Hynes Eagle Carry-On Backpack

The Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack is one of the most inexpensive options on the list. This unisex backpack has a retail price of $50.

Polyester is the main component of the backpack, and the back panel is well ventilated. Mesh covers the shoulder straps.

The Hynes Eagle is one of the most undersized backpacks on the list. Users will begin to see marks and tears on the backpack after using it for two to four months.
The laptop sleeve holds laptop computers up to 15.6,” and some 17” laptops may fit if their bodies are slim and narrow.

The Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack opens up like a suitcase. The main compartment is big enough to hold several large personal items. Holding your items in a stable condition is easy with the internal straps included with the Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack.

The Hynes Eagle helps users travel with many different items and tools. Although the Hynes Eagle is not the largest bag on this list, it is one of the most versatile and dependable.

The front compartment in the Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack contains an organizational tool. A large sleeve inside can hold a tablet and files. Slip pockets and zip pockets are also included with the Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack.

Pros

  • Great for organizing items
  • Backpack straps
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • The backpack is not very durable
  • No hip belt

Product Details

  • Size: 38 liters
  • Weight: 1.76 pounds
  • Dimensions: 13” x 7.9” x 19.7”

Carry-on size: 40-50 liters

Some of the most excellent women-specific bags have an average size of 40 or 50 liters. A few of these can be carried on airplanes even though their capacities are quite large.

Prospective users should make sure to find out the weight and capacity requirements for their new travel backpack. Some travelers will need to double-check their airline requirements. Unfortunately, the more significant-capacity travel backpacks will not be able to function as carry-on luggage.

Specific airlines will have the details regarding weight limits for carry-on items. The travel backpacks in this area are more extensive than those in the previous section, and additional features of these travel backpacks may also add to the total weight of the travel backpack.

That’s why it’s important for you to weigh your pack after you’ve filled it with whatever you’re taking with you on your journey. After all, a 50 liter backpack stuffed with paper and socks weighs much less than a pack of similar size that’s full of, say, workout equipment.

Gregory Mountain Products Proxy 45

The Proxy 45 is a backpack specifically designed for females. Gregory Mountain Products creates valuable and durable outdoor travel items. Gregory Mountain Products manufactures some of the best outdoor gear available on the market.

Water resistance is a vital feature of Proxy 45. Nylon protects from the elements. The Proxy 45 is female-specific, and this is evident in its air mesh harness and sternum strap. The sternum strap can be removed and stored in its compartment.

The Proxy 45 features an adjustable harness, and this versatility enables any female to wear the backpack comfortably.

Suitcase style opening distinguishes Proxy 45. The large main cases can hold five to seven outfits. A front compartment includes an organization panel and a laptop sleeve containing padded sections. Laptops 15.6” inches and smaller will fit inside the laptop sleeve. The Proxy 45 also contains pockets for a tablet and a smartphone.

The zippered pocket on the top of the Proxy 45 is deep and can hold several items. The zippers on the Proxy 45 contain locks, and this safety feature is not available on the majority of the backpacks on our list. These compartments and zippers will help any woman organize her items efficiently and quickly.

Pros

  • The exterior is strong
  • The harness is adjustable and sturdy
  • A variety of compartments

Cons

  • Not capable of being a carry-on when completely packed
  • No TSA friendly laptop sleeve

Product Details

  • Size: 45 liters
  • Weight: 3.39 lbs
  • Dimensions: 23.5” x 13.75” x 10”

Osprey Porter 46

The Osprey Porter 46 is the best mid-sized backpack on the list. Although it is too big to carry-on many airlines, users can store the Osprey Porter 46 in the cabin. The harness and back panel both contain heavy padding, and the Osprey Porter 46 features HDPE suspension.

The Osprey Porter 46 contains no ventilation. Users will need to take this into account if they are searching for a backpack that features ventilation.

The Osprey Porter 46 features a main section that opens after the user stretches the backpack. The front-loading design is convenient and efficient, and users can pack the Osprey Porter 46 in just a few minutes.

The front compartment contains an organization panel. The external pockets are large enough for items that you do not want in the main packing compartment.

The Osprey Porter 46 features an extensive compression system allowing users to tighten the backpack when it is not entirely full. The compression system also reduces the size of the pack.

The padded laptop sleeve will keep laptops and tablets safe from the elements. The Osprey Porter 46 is a great mid-sized pack suitable for many different environments.

Pros

  • Laptop sleeve
  • Hipbelt
  • Numerous pockets and compartments

Cons

  • No ventilated back panel
  • Heavy

Timbuk2 Wanderer

The Timbuk2 Wanderer hybrid model features elements of both a backpack and a duffel bag. The backpack features 420D Ripstop. Every inch of the Timbuk2 Wanderer is water-resistant. A ventilated back panel and upper armbands are suitable for the summer heat.

The Timbuk2 Wanderer does not feature hip belts or sternum straps. Users should keep this in mind if they plan on filling the Timbuk2 Wanderer to capacity.

However, users can set the shoulder straps down and transform the Timbuk2 Wanderer into a duffel bag. The Timbuk2 Wanderer does not contain a laptop sleeve. But a 15” laptop will fit inside the Timbuk2 Wanderer if users possess laptop sleeves.

The primary compartment is quite large and opens up shell style. A large central compartment and tough arm pads will help your items remain stable.

The Timbuk2 Wanderer contains pockets for shoes. Organizational tools sit on the front of the Timbuk2 Wanderer.

Strong belts are included with the backpack. These can help reduce the size of the backpack.

Pros

  • Easy organization
  • Double as a duffel bag
  • Incredibly versatile

Cons

  • No laptop sleeve
  • No hip belt or chest protector

Product Information

  • Size: 40 liters
  • Weight: 3.7 lbs
  • Dimensions: 22.8” x 15” x 7.48”

Osprey Fairview 40

Three different sizes of the Osprey Fairview backpack are available. The smallest version of this backpack functions as carry-on luggage. The Osprey Fairview 40 is specifically designed for women. The Osprey Fairview 40 has ergonomically shaped backpack straps and a torso that is shorter than most men’s backpacks.

The Osprey Fairview 40 is a front-loading backpack. This women-specific backpack contains laptop and tablet sleeves in the main content section.

210D Nylon keeps the Osprey Fairview 40 strong and durable. No additional coating is needed because the backpack is water-resistant.

Every woman can adjust the harness on the backpack. This harness features breathable mesh, and therefore ventilation is an essential element of this backpack. A 3.5mm peripheral frame maintains the backpack’s contour and shape. The weight of the backpack moves from the shoulders to the hips.

The Osprey Fairview 40 contains a padded hip belt. The hip belt is comfortable, adjustable, and padded. These features make this particular backpack good for hiking and walking.

Scratch-resistant pockets will protect sunglasses and smartphones. The internal pockets provide more space for storing sensitive items.

Pros

  • Ventilated back panel
  • Tablet sleeves and laptop sleeves
  • Carry-on size

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Heavy and cumbersome

50 or More Liters

These are the most oversized travel backpacks on the list. Many adventurers, hikers, and climbers may require larger travel backpacks if they will travel for long periods over rough terrain. Similarly, you may need to carry a good deal of things if, say, you’re going to be making a cross-country road trip and want to store everything conveniently in one place!

Larger loads often are not capable of being categorized as carry-on luggage. That means they likely won’t be able to fit into an overhead bin on a plane if they’re packed full. However, if you leave some room, they may fit just fine.

Let’s take a look at the best travel backpacks for women that are over 50 liters!

Thule Landmark Travel Pack

The Thule Landmark Travel Pack is a large, women’s specific backpack with a 70-liter capacity. The main bag is 50 liters and the detachable day backpack has a 20-liter capacity.

The day backpack is excellent for backpacking. When you leave your heaviest luggage behind, you are taking only essential items on your hike.

The Thule Landmark Travel Pack has a ventilated back panel and harness. The hip belt and sternum strap will help you comfortably carry your items. Users can easily adjust the shoulder harness.

Many containers and pockets are great for packing any item users need to take on their trips. Smaller compartments help users protect headphones and small items which can be easily misplaced or lost. A laptop sleeve and an organization panel make this backpack an excellent place for storing essential items.

The daypack backpack can connect to the shoulder straps of the leading bag. The daypack protects a user’s back while walking over rough terrain.

The Thule Landmark Travel Pack is an excellent choice for a large backpack.

Pros

  • Adjustable harness
  • Many pockets and compartments
  • A detachable daypack

Cons

  • Expensive

Product Details

  • Size: 70 liters
  • Weight: 4.56 lbs
  • Dimensions: 19.3” x 13” x 24.8”

Osprey Aura AG 65+

The Osprey Aura AG is a women’s specific backpack. The harness and back panel use Anti-Gravity technology. Suspended air mesh covers the harness and the back panel. This backpack is breathable and comfortable. The manufacturer lists important details regarding the Anti-Gravity material used to create the Osprey Aura AG 65+

Users can adjust the whole harness and make the backpack fit many different body types. The Osprey Aura AG weighs only 4.26 lbs. The Aura 65 hip belt padding is adjustable and is extendable. These features will help climbers who want to use this travel backpack on their climbing excursions.

The Osprey Aura AG is a top-loading hiking backpack. The main compartment can easily hold 14 days’ worth of clothes. This backpack contains a floating pocket that functions as a daypack. A FlapJacket cover makes the Osprey Aura AG an incredibly diverse bag.

Hydration sleeves, ice ax loops, and trekking pole attachments are essential features on the Osprey Aura AG. Several side pockets and mesh pockets help users organize essential items. The Osprey Aura AG is a large backpack, and users will have several spaces in which to store their backpacking items.

Pros

  • Adjustable harness
  • Suspension systems
  • Suitable for extended backpacking trips

Cons

  • No carry-on size

Product Details

  • Size: 65 liters
  • Weight: 4.26 lbs
  • Dimensions: 31” x 15” x 16”

Kelty Redwing 50

This unisex backpack is affordable and durable. Users can choose two sizes: a 50-liter version and a 44-liter version. These backpacks are not capable of being used as carry-on bags.

The greatest strength of the Kelty Redwing 50 is its versatile nature. The main compartment section is enormous, allowing you to store whatever you need on your trip. You can even place several weeks’ worth of gear into this large section, if you know how to manage your space!

The back panel features Dynamic AirFlow. Ridges covered in the breathable mesh feature foam ridges. This backpack is comfortable and is ideal for serious hikers and adventurers.

The front compartment contains an organization panel. The front section can hold a tablet. The dual sleeve inside the main packing section holds a laptop or a hydration bladder. The Kelty Redwing 50 contains many pockets as well as a front stretch pocket.

Pros

  • Versatile and dynamic
  • Ventilated back panel
  • Organizational tools

Cons

  • No Hip belt pocket
  • No carry-on size

Product Details

  • Size: 50 liters
  • Weight: 3.69 lbs
  • Dimensions: 26” x 16” x 12”

AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack

This bag is an inexpensive and high-quality backpack. The large capacity AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack is a reputable backpack anyone can buy. This inexpensive option is a durable and sturdy backpack.

The AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack can be carried on a plane, and it has a 50-liter capacity. It is a robust and durable backpack. Shoulder straps with good support and strong lining make this backpack convenient and tough.

This backpack contains a hip belt and a sternum strap. These features help shift weight from the user’s shoulders to the hips.

Long shoulder bands accompany the extensive main section on the backpack. The expandable capacity feature helps users pack more items for their trips and adventures.

The shoulder bands can be used to reduce the size capacity of the backpack. The front compartment contains a tool for storing items. Pen holders and slip pockets help users organize important items and information.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Expanding capacity
  • Organizing tools
  • Carry-on size

Cons

  • Slightly heavy

Product Details

  • Size: 50 liters
  • Weight: 3.64 lbs
  • Dimensions: 15” x 6.5” x 20.1”

Pacsafe VentureSafe EXP45 ECONYL Travel Pack

Pacsafe is an eco-friendly company specializing in anti-theft travel accessories. This backpack protects users’ electronic information and helps when users travel in areas with excessive security risks. These safety features may be more useful for adventurers and explorers engaged in international travel.

ECONYL fiber made from discarded fishing nets is the main component in the material used to make the Pacsafe VentureSafe EXP45 ECONYL Travel Pack backpack. The backpack is light, durable, and rugged. It features a guard of stainless steel wire to protect it against someone slicing your backpack with a knife.

Zippers with locks and a steel cable help users lock their backpacks to non-moving objects, like a pole or cubby. It also has a 15” laptop sleeve that can be used as a hydration pouch. The laptop sleeve is also capable of housing tablets and other thin electronic devices.

This backpack meets carry-on size dimensions.

Pros

  • Safe
  • Steel Cable
  • Carry-on size

Cons

  • Heavy

Product Details

  • Size: 45 liters
  • Weight: three lbs
  • Dimensions: 14” x 7.5” x 20.1”

EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender

This 54-liter travel backpack features ten different colors, and it’s packed like a suitcase. The EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender is an inexpensive option for a strong travel backpack. Although the purchase price is higher than other travel backpacks on the list, the EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender is one of the best travel backpacks listed here.

The TLS Mother Lode Weekender only costs $110.00. The backpack features many pockets, an adjustable sleeve, and an expanding zipper that adds extra volume for more oversized items.

The features of this backpack are unique. At three pounds, the 54-liter EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender is not as heavy as one would expect after considering the extra volume and pockets available in the backpack.

Being able to choose from ten different colors gives you a choice to coordinate your outfits with your backpack, if you want. Some hikers and climbers prefer specific backpack colors for different reasons, and the EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender provides prospective users with many color options.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Adjustable laptop sleeve
  • Expansion zipper

Cons

  • The waist belt is flimsy

Product Details

  • Size: 54 liters
  • Weight: three lbs
  • Dimensions: 19” x 11.75” x 1.5”

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

The Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack is the biggest and strongest travel backpack. It is a functional and sturdy carry-on-sized bag. The travel pack features a nylon shell and polyester, and the travel pack will not tear or wear down under rain or excessive moisture.

Mesh compartments provide easy storage solutions. Also, three padded tablet and laptop sleeves protect devices, all while providing easy access to you as you go about your day. These features are standard on the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack.

The travel pack and be worn on the back or carried on the shoulder. An included rain cover will help protect your items from the elements. Users can detach the rain cover from the Cotopaxi Allpa 42 L Travel Pack. If this feature is essential to prospective purchasers, they should make sure it is listed on their purchase summary when they check out on the manufacturer’s website.

Travelers and hikers will love the strength and transportability of this travel pack. It is an excellent option for serious hikers, backpackers, and climbers.

Pros

  • Strong
  • Optimum organization
  • Multiple laptop sleeves

Cons

  • Waist Belt is not very supportive

Product Details

  • Size: 42 liters
  • Weight: 4lbs
  • Dimensions: 21.5” x 13” x 9”

Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L

The Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L is eco-friendly, water-repellant, and lightweight. This travel pack features 100% recycled nylon and polyester. Although the bag is not heavy, it is solid and capable of withstanding rough environments.

Two laptop sleeves with padding protect your computers. A zipper on the top of the bag helps you access necessary items quickly. The daisy chains included with the travel pack help users clip hats, sandals, or water bottles to the travel pack.

The Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32 L is a great travel pack for people who need to carry a lot of gear but do not want a heavy weight on their bodies. The Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32 L can help backpackers and hikers go further without feeling exhausted by excessive weight.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Sturdy
  • Water-repellant

Cons

  • Expensive

Product Details

  • Size: 32 liters
  • Weight: 1 lb
  • Dimensions: 22” x 10.5” x 6.75”

Purchasing a Travel Backpack

Travel backpacks come in various sizes, shapes, and weights. After reviewing this list, you should choose a travel backpack that will enable you to engage in whatever outdoor activities you are most fond of! By focusing on the exact dimensions of the travel backpacks, you can make the best decision for yourself and your travel companions.

Many of the items contain women-specific features, but some travel backpacks on this list are not designed only for the fairer sex, so to speak. It is crucial for you to double-check the product details of your travel backpack before making a final purchase. Some of these travel backpacks may not meet all of your needs, so you should make your decision with care.

Without a doubt, these are the best travel backpacks for women on the market right now. We’ve laid out 15 options for you, highlighting the different features and specs that you may need. Whether you want something that you can take on an airplane with you or a backpack that will be able to hold a whole week’s worth of goods, you’ll find the perfect satchel for your next voyage!