Best Travel Backpacks 2025 for Digital Nomads – Top 10 Picks

So, I’ve been thinking a lot about what makes a good travel backpack, especially for those of us who are always on the move, working from different spots. It’s not just about throwing clothes in a bag anymore, right? You need something that can handle your tech, keep things organized, and still be comfortable when you’re lugging it through airports or down cobblestone streets. After trying out a bunch of different bags myself, I’ve put together my top picks for the Best Travel Backpacks for Digital Nomads 2025. I really focused on what works best for this kind of lifestyle, so hopefully, this helps you find your perfect travel companion.

Key Takeaways

• Comfort is a big deal, especially if you’re carrying your bag for long stretches.
• Good organization, like separate compartments for tech and clothes, makes life easier.
• Durability matters; you want a backpack that can handle being tossed around a bit.
• Security features are important to protect your gear while you’re traveling.
• The right size and carry-on compatibility can save you a lot of hassle at the airport.

1. Peak Design Travel Backpack

I’ve been eyeing the Peak Design Travel Backpack for a while now, and I’m seriously considering making it my go-to travel companion for 2025. It’s got this sleek, modern look that I really dig, and from what I’ve read, it’s packed with features that make it perfect for digital nomads like me.

One of the things that stands out is its expandable design. I can switch between 35 and 45 liters just by zipping or unzipping it. That’s super handy when I need a bit more space for longer trips. Plus, there are entry points all over the place – top, side, front, and back – so I can grab my stuff without having to unpack everything. I also like that I can use all the modular Peak Design accessories such as the packing cubes, tech pouch, etc. with the Peak Design Outdoor Backpack.

Here’s what I’m looking forward to:

• The padded laptop and tablet sleeves. Gotta keep my tech safe!
• The divisible main compartment. Helps me stay organized.
• The stretchy side pockets. Perfect for water bottles or quick-access items.

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The price is definitely a downside. It’s one of the pricier options out there, and it’s a bit on the heavier side. But honestly, I think the features and build quality might just justify the cost. I also read that it’s a bit less optimized for outdoor readiness and more focused on tech features and usability.

I’m also a big fan of the fact that it’s adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. I’am not a professional photographer, but I do like to take a lot of pictures when I travel, so that’s a big plus for me. I’m excited to see how this travel backpack 45L holds up on my next adventure!

2. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

I’ve been using the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L for a while now, and I’ve got to say, it’s become one of my go-to travel companions. It really strikes a great balance between size, durability, and organization. The 35L capacity is perfect for those trips where I want to pack light but still have enough room for everything I need.

One of the things I appreciate most is how tough this bag is. The ripstop nylon material feels incredibly durable, like it can handle pretty much anything I throw at it. I also like that it has handles on three sides, making it easy to grab and go, no matter how I’ve stowed it. Plus, the handle pass-through is a lifesaver when I’m using it with my carry-on luggage.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes this bag stand out for me:

• Durable Materials: Made with 100% recycled 840-denier ripstop nylon, this bag can withstand the rigors of travel.
• Easy Organization: The full wraparound zipper provides unrestricted access to the main compartment, and the internal organization is well-thought-out.
• Comfortable to Carry: Even when fully packed, the Allpa 35L remains comfortable to carry, making it ideal for longer trips.

I’ve found that this single backpack, combined with a personal item, has replaced almost every other travel bag I own. It’s just that versatile and reliable.

Cotopaxi also offers the Allpa in 28L and 42L sizes, but I think the 35L hits the sweet spot. The 42L can get heavy when fully loaded, and the 28L might be a bit too small for longer trips. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly getaway bag that can do it all, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is definitely worth considering.

3. Eagle Creek Tour 40L

I’ve always appreciated Eagle Creek’s commitment to quality, and the Tour 40L is no exception. It feels incredibly durable, like it can withstand the rigors of travel without falling apart. I remember when I first got it, I was immediately impressed by the external storage options. The stretchy side water bottle pocket is super handy, and the expansion zipper is a lifesaver when I need to cram in a few extra items. When expanded, it goes from 8.75 inches to 10.75 inches, which is a noticeable difference.

One of my favorite features is the book-style opening. It makes it so easy to access everything inside without having to unpack the whole bag. Plus, the internal and external compression straps help keep everything snug and secure. I also like the side and top grab handles – they make it easy to load and carry, especially when I’m rushing through airports.

I do have to admit, though, that the latest version is a bit pricier and heavier than the older models. It’s now $249 and weighs over 3 pounds. It’s also only available in one size, which is a bummer. But on the bright side, it can now be attached to rolling luggage, which is a nice touch. Overall, it’s still a solid travel pack from a brand I trust.

4. REI Co-op Ruckpack 40

REI Co-op is known for making solid gear that doesn’t break the bank, and the Ruckpack 40 is a great example. For around $160, it really delivers for both casual and experienced travelers. It’s comfortable to carry because it has a suspension system similar to backpacking packs, which spreads the weight nicely. It’s also easy to get into and keep organized, thanks to a big U-shaped opening and useful zippered pockets. Plus, it’s surprisingly light for its size, weighing in at just under 3 pounds.

One of the things I like most is that it can also work well for hiking. It has a spot for a water bladder, attachments for trekking poles, and even comes with a rain cover. It’s also available in both men’s and women’s versions, with different sizes for each, so you can really find the right fit.

Of course, like most things that try to do everything, the Ruckpack 40 does make some compromises. For example, the sleeve for a water bladder can hold a laptop, but it’s not padded, which isn’t great for protecting your electronics. Also, the U-shaped zipper doesn’t open as wide as some other bags, so it can be a little harder to reach stuff at the bottom. And there’s no divider inside or straps to compress your stuff, but I’ve found that packing cubes work just as well, if not better, for keeping things organized.

Overall, I think the Ruckpack is a really versatile and well-made bag at a great price. It’s a solid choice if you want something that can handle both travel and hiking without emptying your wallet.

5. Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45

I’ve always been a bit paranoid about my belongings when traveling, so the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 really caught my eye. It’s designed with security as the top priority, and that gives me some peace of mind. It’s not the flashiest or most comfortable pack, but it’s got some serious anti-theft features.

One of the things I appreciate most is the eXomesh slash-proof material. It’s reassuring to know that someone can’t just slice open my bag and grab my stuff. The lockable zippers are also a nice touch, and the RFID-blocking pockets are great for protecting my cards and passport from electronic theft. I tested the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 in Portugal and it was great.

Here’s a quick rundown of what I like and what could be better:

• Integrated security system
• Cut-resistant materials
• Lockable zippers
• RFID-blocking pockets

While the security features are great, the comfort isn’t the best. The shoulder straps are pretty basic, and the weight distribution isn’t ideal, especially with the laptop compartment in the front. If you’re looking for a super comfortable pack for long treks, this might not be it. But if security is your main concern, it’s a solid choice.

6. Pakt Travel Backpack

I’ve been eyeing the Pakt Travel Backpack for a while now, and I’m seriously considering it for my next trip. At 35L, it’s a bit smaller than some of the other backpacks on this list, which is actually a plus for me. I’m trying to pack lighter these days, and I think it’s the perfect size for shorter trips or even as a carry-on for longer adventures.

What really sets the Pakt apart, in my opinion, is its internal organization. Most travel backpacks just have one big compartment, but the Pakt divides the main space into two halves, with the laptop compartment sandwiched in between. I think this is a brilliant design choice for a few reasons:

• It keeps my laptop safe and secure.
• It makes it easier to organize my clothes and other belongings.
• It helps to distribute the weight more evenly.

I also appreciate that the Pakt is made from recycled materials. It’s important to me to choose products that are both functional and sustainable, and the Pakt ticks both of those boxes.

I’m also intrigued by some of the unique features, like the waterproof compartment and the waist strap that can double as a sling bag. It seems like Pakt has really thought of everything with this backpack.

7. Salkan Backpacker

The Salkan Backpacker really nails that retro canvas backpack look, but it’s actually made from a super durable and rain-resistant polyester. It’s a cool mix of old-school style with modern practicality. I think it’s a pretty neat design.

What I really like is its 2-in-1 system. You get a main pack and a detachable daypack that work together seamlessly. You can buy them separately, but getting them together saves you some money. The main pack holds 45 liters, but you can expand it to 55, and the daypack is 20 liters. Salkan even lets you customize your backpack with different colors and straps, which is a nice touch.

The suspension system is fully featured, with padded straps, a padded back, and a hip belt with zippers. I found it pretty comfortable, even when I was walking around for long stretches. The best part? You can adjust the harness to fit your torso length, which is awesome if you’re not exactly average height like me.

I took this backpack on a six-week trip to the Canary Islands. It only rained a couple of days, but the Salkan handled the weather just fine. The rain-resistant features make me confident in recommending it for any kind of trip.

There’s also a smaller 35L carry-on version now, if you’re looking for something a bit more compact.

8. Nomatic Travel Bag

I’ve been eyeing the Nomatic Travel Bag for a while now, and I can see why it’s a favorite among digital nomads. Nomatic is a travel company first, and it really shows in the design of this bag. It’s clear they’ve put a ton of thought into organization and easy access.

One of the coolest things is the customizable strap design. I can switch between backpack and duffel carry super easily, which is awesome for different travel situations. Plus, it has dedicated compartments for shoes and clothing, and even a mesh laundry bag to keep the dirty stuff separate. That’s a game-changer for longer trips. I also appreciate the exterior pocket; it opens wide and has all sorts of mesh, fleece-lined, and zippered spots for organizing electronics and cords. There’s even an RFID pocket for passports and other important documents.

I think the Nomatic Travel Bag is a great option for digital nomads who need to organize a lot of electronics. It’s got a sleek and minimalist design, and it’s packed with features that make travel easier.

Nomatic also has another option called the Navigator, but I think the Travel Bag is the better all-around choice. The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is less expensive and lighter, although it doesn’t have the expandable main compartment that the Navigator has. But honestly, I prefer the Travel Bag’s dirty shoe compartment and included laundry bag.

Here’s a quick comparison of some similar bags:

9. Osprey Farpoint/Fairview

I’ve seen the Osprey Farpoint mentioned everywhere online, especially on backpacking blogs. It’s a solid choice because it gives you great quality for the price, and it comes in different sizes (40L, 55L, and 70L). For simplicity’s sake, everything I say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.

Comfort is the biggest plus with the Osprey Farpoint 40. It’s got a ribbed back panel, a trampoline surface, adjustment straps, and a height-adjustable harness. You usually see these features on hiking packs, not travel packs. They make the Farpoint 40 super comfy to carry, even for long stretches. This makes it a popular budget pick, especially for hosteling and backpacking. I think it’s a great starter option for one-bag travel. It’s easy to pack, works in most situations, and is tough enough to take around the world. You can find it for a good price at budget-friendly hotels.

Here’s what I like about it:

• It’s lightweight (around 3.5 lbs).
• It opens like a suitcase, so it’s easy to pack.
• It’s comfy to wear, even for long periods.
• It’s an amazing value.

Something to keep in mind:

While it’s a great smaller carry-on travel backpack, I do wish Osprey had traded some of the sleek design for a bit more space inside. It’s best used with packing cubes. The Farpoint 40 doesn’t have as many pockets or fancy features as some of those one-bag air travel backpacks, but it’s a reliable choice for adventure trips. You can easily add some packing cubes for more internal organization if you’d like. The 55L and 70L versions include a detachable 15L daypack with a laptop sleeve.

Miami to Key West Road Trip Guide: Epic Adventures

All the packs in the series have a height-adjustable back panel. The bigger 55L and 70L models have extra padding in the hip belt for heavier loads, while the 40L stays streamlined. The Osprey Farpoint 40 is built for travel but designed for hiking. Osprey’s lifetime warranty is well-known in the industry. The pack also has an optional messenger-bag-style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

Capacity: 35 liters
Weight, Farpoint: 3 pounds 3 ounces
Weight, Fairview: 3 pounds 2 ounces
Main-compartment access: front-panel loader
Colors, Farpoint: green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black
Colors, Fairview: blue (Winter Night), green-blue (Night Jungle), red (Zircon), black

10. Tortuga Outbreaker

The Tortuga Outbreaker is a serious contender for anyone who wants a blend of backpack convenience and luggage-style organization. I’ve found it to be incredibly durable and well-thought-out for travel. It’s definitely an investment, but one that pays off in terms of comfort and functionality.

One of the things I appreciate most is the robust construction. The tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers give me peace of mind, especially when I’m stuffing it into overhead bins or trekking through unpredictable weather. The clamshell opening makes packing and unpacking a breeze, and the internal organization is fantastic for keeping everything in its place. I can easily separate my clothes, electronics, and other essentials.

I’ve used the Outbreaker on several trips now, and it’s held up remarkably well. The comfortable harness system, with its padded shoulder straps, hip belt, and adjustable torso height, makes carrying heavy loads much more manageable. It’s clear that Tortuga put a lot of thought into the ergonomics of this backpack.

Here’s a quick rundown of what I like about the Tortuga Outbreaker:

• Durable materials
• Excellent organization
• Comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded

While it might be a bit pricier than some other options, the Tortuga Outbreaker is a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable travel companion. It’s a bag that’s built to last and designed to make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. I’d recommend checking out the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L if you’re looking for something similar but with a slightly different feature set. It’s another solid option from Tortuga that’s worth considering if the Outbreaker doesn’t quite fit your needs.

Conclusion

So, I’ve gone through a bunch of great backpacks here, and honestly, each one has its own good points. But, you know, a lot of you have asked me directly, like, “What do you actually use?” So, I’ll tell you. If I’m heading to a city or somewhere with good roads and stuff, I’d probably grab my Peak Design 45L. It’s my go-to for shorter trips. Or maybe the smaller Pakt if it’s just a weekend thing.

But most of the time, I’m backpacking in places where things are a bit more, well, rustic. That means I need something super comfy and with smart pockets for all my gear. So, for those longer, more adventurous trips, I pick other bags. If I’m not worried about carry-on limits, I’ll take my 45L Salkan Backpacker—it’s awesome for checking in and big trips. But for carry-on travel when I’m still doing adventurous stuff, I usually go for something else.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in a good travel backpack?

When I pick a travel backpack, I mostly think about how big it is, how comfy it feels when I wear it, and if it has good pockets to keep my stuff organized. I also check if it’s tough and can handle different kinds of weather. For me, it’s super important that it fits as a carry-on, so I don’t have to check it at the airport.

Can I use these backpacks as a carry-on for flights?

Yes, for sure! Most of the backpacks I picked for this list are great for carry-on. That means you can take them right onto the plane with you, which saves time and worry about lost luggage. Just remember that some bags, like the Peak Design, can get bigger, so you need to be careful not to overpack if you want it to still fit in the overhead bin.

What’s the best size backpack for a digital nomad?

The best size really depends on how long you’re traveling and how much stuff you need to bring. For shorter trips or if you pack light, a 35L or 40L bag is usually perfect. If you’re going for a long time or need more gear, something like a 45L might be better. I always try to pack as little as possible!

Do these backpacks have a safe spot for my laptop?

Absolutely! Many of these backpacks have special pockets or sleeves for your laptop, which is super important for digital nomads. They’re usually padded to keep your computer safe. I always make sure my laptop fits easily and is protected.

How do you test these travel backpacks?

I test every backpack on a real trip, not just by looking at it. I’ve traveled all over the world, from busy cities to quiet towns, and I’ve used over 60 different backpacks. This helps me really know how they perform in different situations and if they’re truly good for travel.

Which backpack do you personally use the most?

When I’m doing city trips or going to places with good services, I often grab my Peak Design 45L for shorter stays or the smaller Pakt for quick weekend getaways. But for my longer adventures in developing countries, where I’m walking a lot and dealing with less infrastructure, I go for something different. If I’m checking a bag, I love my Salkan Backpacker 45L. For carry-on adventuring, I usually pick another option that’s super comfy and has smart storage.