When it comes to travel, rolling backpacks offer the perfect combination of the convenience of a suitcase and the comfort of a backpack. These versatile bags allow you to roll them along smooth surfaces while also giving you the flexibility to carry them on your back when the terrain gets rough. Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure, or both, a rolling backpack can make your trip easier by reducing the strain of carrying heavy luggage for long distances.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best rolling backpacks for travel, highlighting their key features, capacity, and suitability for various travel needs.
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Top Rolling Backpacks for Travel
1. Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Luggage 45L/60L
The Osprey Sojourn is one of the best rolling backpacks for travelers who need versatility and durability. It comes in two sizes, 45 liters and 60 liters, both of which are large enough for extended trips. This backpack is designed with the same level of comfort and support as Osprey’s regular backpacks, featuring padded shoulder straps and a stowaway harness for easy conversion into a traditional backpack.
Key Features:
- 45L and 60L capacity options
- High-clearance wheels for easy rolling
- Stowable backpack straps and hip belt
- Durable, weather-resistant material
- Internal compression straps for better organization
The Osprey Sojourn is perfect for both urban travel and more rugged adventures where you’ll need to switch between rolling and carrying.
2. High Sierra Powerglide Wheeled Backpack
The High Sierra Powerglide is a fantastic budget-friendly option for those looking for a rolling backpack that still offers great features. With a 38-liter capacity, it’s ideal for short trips or as a carry-on. This backpack is designed with multiple compartments, including a dedicated laptop sleeve, making it ideal for business travelers or students.
Key Features:
- 38-liter capacity
- Dedicated laptop compartment (fits up to 17-inch laptops)
- Large, smooth-rolling wheels
- Padded shoulder straps for backpack mode
- Multiple organizational pockets
This backpack is great for those who want a rolling option for travel but also need it to be functional for daily use.
3. Targus Compact Rolling Backpack
The Targus Compact Rolling Backpack is designed for travelers who need a sleek, compact solution for short trips. Its small size makes it a great carry-on, but it still provides plenty of space for travel essentials. This backpack includes a padded laptop sleeve and enough room for other electronics, clothes, and travel accessories.
Key Features:
- Compact design, fits as carry-on luggage
- Padded laptop sleeve (fits up to 16-inch laptops)
- Water-resistant bottom panel
- Smooth inline wheels
- Padded shoulder straps for easy carrying
The Targus Compact Rolling Backpack is ideal for business trips or weekend getaways where you need to travel light and efficiently.
4. Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible Wheeled Backpack
For those who want a more rugged option, the Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible is a great choice. This backpack features oversized wheels, making it easy to maneuver through tough terrain. The stowable straps and padded harness make it comfortable to carry, while the durable material ensures it can withstand the wear and tear of travel. With its 40-liter capacity, it’s the perfect size for longer trips or adventure travel.
Key Features:
- 40-liter capacity
- Stowable backpack straps
- Oversized, durable wheels
- Water-resistant fabric
- Lockable zippers for added security
The Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible is the right choice for adventurous travelers who need a durable bag that can be rolled or carried with ease.
5. Samsonite Wheeled Backpack
Samsonite is known for making high-quality travel gear, and their Wheeled Backpack is no exception. This backpack is designed with smooth-rolling wheels and a telescopic handle for easy maneuverability, but it also comes with padded backpack straps for when you need to carry it. The 34-liter capacity is great for shorter trips, and the multiple compartments help keep your belongings organized.
Key Features:
- 34-liter capacity
- Padded laptop compartment
- Telescopic handle and smooth-rolling wheels
- Padded straps for backpack mode
- Durable polyester material
The Samsonite Wheeled Backpack is perfect for business travelers or anyone looking for a reliable, stylish option for short trips.
Why Choose a Rolling Backpack?
Rolling backpacks are great for travelers who want the option to switch between wheeling and carrying their luggage. They are especially useful in airports, train stations, or city streets where rolling your bag is much easier than carrying it. However, when you encounter uneven surfaces like cobblestone streets or hiking trails, being able to switch to backpack mode is a huge advantage.
Here are some reasons to consider a rolling backpack for your next trip:
- Versatility: Switch between rolling and carrying depending on the environment.
- Reduced Strain: No need to constantly carry heavy luggage on your back.
- More Storage: Rolling backpacks often have more room than regular backpacks.
- Easy Maneuverability: Wheels make it easy to glide through airports and train stations.
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How to Choose the Best Rolling Backpack for Travel
Consider the Capacity
When choosing a rolling backpack, the capacity is a key factor. For short trips, a backpack with a capacity of 30-40 liters should suffice. However, if you’re going on a longer trip or need more space for gear, consider a backpack with a 50-60 liter capacity.
Durability and Materials
Travel can be hard on luggage, so it’s important to choose a rolling backpack made from durable materials like polyester, nylon, or ballistic fabric. Look for features like reinforced seams, weather-resistant coatings, and strong zippers to ensure your bag will last through multiple trips.
Wheel Quality
The quality of the wheels can make a big difference in how easy it is to roll your backpack. Look for backpacks with high-clearance wheels or oversized wheels that can handle uneven terrain. Inline skate wheels are often a good choice for smooth rolling and durability.
Straps and Comfort
Even though you’ll be rolling the backpack most of the time, there will be moments when you need to carry it. Make sure the backpack has padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel for added comfort when it’s in backpack mode.
Organizational Features
The best rolling backpacks offer plenty of organizational compartments to help keep your belongings sorted. Look for backpacks with laptop sleeves, internal compression straps, quick-access pockets, and hidden compartments to keep everything in its place.
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FAQ
1. What are the advantages of a rolling backpack for travel?
A rolling backpack offers the versatility of both a suitcase and a traditional backpack. You can roll it when walking through airports or streets, and carry it on your back when needed for stairs, uneven terrain, or crowded areas.
2. What size rolling backpack is best for travel?
For travel, a rolling backpack between 30 and 45 liters is ideal. It should be large enough to hold your essentials but still compact enough to meet carry-on size requirements for most airlines.
3. Are rolling backpacks allowed as carry-ons?
Yes, many rolling backpacks are designed to meet airline carry-on size requirements. Always check the airline’s specific carry-on dimensions, as they can vary. Typically, a backpack that’s under 22 x 14 x 9 inches will fit as a carry-on.
4. What should I look for in a rolling backpack for travel?
Look for sturdy wheels, a retractable handle, padded shoulder straps, durable material, multiple compartments for organization, and a comfortable back panel for when you need to carry it. Water resistance and lockable zippers are also great features for travel.
5. Are rolling backpacks heavier than regular backpacks?
Yes, rolling backpacks tend to be slightly heavier due to the wheels and handle system. However, the ability to roll them when needed offsets the added weight, making them a good option for travelers who want flexibility.
6. Can I use a rolling backpack for hiking or outdoor trips?
Rolling backpacks are typically not ideal for hiking or outdoor adventures due to their added weight and wheel mechanisms. They’re better suited for urban travel, airports, and smooth terrain. For outdoor trips, a traditional hiking backpack would be more suitable.
7. Are rolling backpacks durable enough for frequent travel?
Yes, many rolling backpacks are built with high-quality materials like nylon or polyester and feature reinforced seams and heavy-duty wheels. Look for models from reputable brands known for durability if you plan on using the backpack frequently.
8. Do rolling backpacks come with laptop compartments?
Many rolling backpacks come with padded laptop compartments, making them a great option for travelers who need to carry electronics. Ensure the compartment is well-padded and easy to access for security checks at airports.
9. Can I use a rolling backpack on public transportation?
Yes, rolling backpacks can be used on public transportation, but you may find it more convenient to wear it as a backpack in crowded buses, trains, or subways. The dual functionality allows you to adapt based on the situation.
10. Are there anti-theft rolling backpacks available?
Yes, some rolling backpacks come with anti-theft features like lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and RFID-blocking compartments. These features are helpful when traveling in busy or high-risk areas.
11. How do I clean a rolling backpack?
Most rolling backpacks can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, especially if the backpack has delicate parts like wheels or retractable handles.
Final Thoughts
A rolling backpack is the ultimate travel companion, offering the flexibility to switch between rolling and carrying depending on your needs. Whether you’re looking for a compact, professional option like the Targus Compact Rolling Backpack or a rugged, high-capacity option like the Osprey Sojourn, there’s a rolling backpack out there for every type of traveler.
By focusing on key features like capacity, durability, and comfort, you can find the perfect rolling backpack to make your travels smoother and more convenient.
