When planning your trip to Europe, having the right travel backpack is crucial to ensure comfort, style, and convenience. Whether you’re backpacking through multiple countries or spending a weekend in a specific city, choosing the best backpack can make or break your experience. Europe’s diverse landscape and infrastructure—from cobblestone streets to modern trains—require a versatile, lightweight, and durable travel backpack. Below, we’ll explore the top-rated travel backpacks and why they are the best fit for your European adventure.
Read More: Best Lightweight Backpacks for Travel
Best Travel Backpacks for Europe: Our Top Picks
Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s look at the best travel backpacks designed to make your European adventure hassle-free.
1. Osprey Farpoint 40
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a favorite among seasoned travelers, and for a good reason. With a capacity of 40 liters, it strikes a balance between carrying capacity and portability, making it ideal for both short and extended trips across Europe. The Farpoint 40 features a lightweight frame that provides excellent comfort, even for long walking tours.
For Men
Key Features:
- Carry-on compliant for most airlines, saving you money on checked baggage fees
- Detachable shoulder strap and hip belt for easy carrying
- Multiple organizational compartments and laptop sleeve
- Lockable zippers for added security
For Women
2. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is for those looking for style without sacrificing functionality. With its expandable design, you can easily switch between a 35L daypack and a 45L travel bag, making it versatile enough for both weekend getaways and longer trips. It also boasts impressive weatherproofing and rugged durability, perfect for unpredictable European weather.
Key Features:
- Expandable capacity from 35L to 45L
- Weatherproof zippers and durable materials
- Sleek, professional design that doesn’t scream “tourist”
- Built-in compression straps to maximize packing efficiency
3. Nomatic Travel Pack
The Nomatic Travel Pack is a compact, stylish option for the modern traveler. It’s specifically designed for those who pack light and need a versatile backpack for both work and leisure. With a 30L capacity, it’s one of the smaller backpacks on this list, but its innovative design offers maximum organization.
Key Features:
- Magnetic water bottle pocket and other unique organizational features
- Multiple compartments for tech gear, making it perfect for digital nomads
- Water-resistant materials for protection against unexpected rain
- Lockable, theft-proof zippers for added security
What to Look for in a Travel Backpack for Europe
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s essential to understand what makes a travel backpack perfect for Europe. Here are some key features to look for:
Size and Capacity
A travel backpack should have enough space to hold your belongings but still be manageable in size. The ideal size for most travelers ranges between 30L to 50L, as it offers sufficient storage while being compact enough to carry on flights and trains.
Durability
European trips often involve rough terrains like cobblestone streets and various weather conditions. Your backpack must be made of durable materials like ripstop nylon or polyester to withstand the elements.
Comfort
Comfort is non-negotiable when you’ll be carrying a backpack for hours. Look for padded shoulder straps, a well-ventilated back panel, and hip belts to distribute the weight evenly across your body.
Security Features
Europe is known for its charming, bustling cities, but they can also be hotspots for pickpocketing. Backpacks with lockable zippers, hidden compartments, and RFID-blocking pockets can provide additional peace of mind.
Organization
Multiple compartments and pockets make it easier to organize your belongings, so you can access important items like passports or travel documents without rummaging through your bag.
Read More: Top-Rated Best Backpacks for Air Travel in 2024
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Backpack
Consider Your Travel Style
Are you more of a minimalist traveler, or do you like to pack for every possible scenario? If you’re visiting multiple destinations across Europe, it’s best to stick to carry-on-only luggage to avoid the hassle of checked bags. However, if you plan to stay in one place for a while, you might appreciate a larger backpack with more space for your belongings.
Pay Attention to Weight Distribution
While comfort is a priority, how your backpack distributes weight is equally important. Look for backpacks with adjustable chest and hip straps, as they help shift weight off your shoulders and onto your hips, reducing the strain on your back.
Keep It Lightweight
Backpack weight can add up quickly, especially when you’re on the move across Europe. Opt for a lightweight travel backpack that doesn’t compromise on durability. Many modern backpacks use high-quality materials that are both lightweight and long-lasting.
Read More: Best Waterproof Backpacks for Travel
FAQ
1. What size backpack is best for traveling around Europe?
A backpack between 30 to 45 liters is typically ideal for European travel. It’s large enough to hold essentials for a multi-week trip while still being compact enough to meet most airline carry-on requirements.
2. Should I choose a backpack over a suitcase for Europe travel?
Many travelers prefer backpacks for Europe because of the continent’s cobblestone streets, stairs, and public transportation. Backpacks offer better mobility in cities and rural areas, especially if you plan on moving between multiple destinations.
3. What features should I look for in a Europe travel backpack?
Important features include carry-on size compatibility, comfortable padded straps, a breathable back panel, multiple compartments for organization, durable materials, and possibly lockable zippers for added security.
4. Can I bring a travel backpack as a carry-on for European flights?
Yes, many travel backpacks are designed to fit within carry-on size limits. Look for backpacks between 35 to 45 liters and confirm the dimensions with your airline to ensure compliance with European carry-on regulations.
5. Are there anti-theft backpacks available for travel in Europe?
Yes, several backpacks come with anti-theft features like lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, hidden compartments, and slash-resistant materials. These features are useful for safeguarding your belongings while traveling in crowded tourist areas.
6. What is the best material for a travel backpack for Europe?
Look for backpacks made from durable, water-resistant materials such as nylon or polyester. These materials are lightweight yet strong enough to withstand wear and tear during your travels.
7. Should I choose a front-loading or top-loading backpack for Europe?
Front-loading backpacks are often preferred for travel because they open like a suitcase, allowing easy access to your belongings. This makes packing and unpacking simpler compared to top-loading backpacks, which require digging through items.
8. Is a 50L backpack too big for traveling in Europe?
A 50L backpack can be a bit large for carry-on, but it could work if you don’t mind checking it in on flights. For mobility and convenience in European cities, a backpack between 30 and 45 liters is often more practical.
9. Do I need a waterproof backpack for Europe?
While a fully waterproof backpack isn’t necessary, a water-resistant one is recommended, especially if you plan to visit areas with unpredictable weather. You can also use a rain cover for added protection.
10. How do I secure my backpack in hostels or public places in Europe?
Many hostels provide lockers, so it’s useful to bring a padlock. For additional security, choose a backpack with lockable zippers or use a cable lock to secure your backpack to a fixed object when necessary.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Travel Backpack for Europe
Traveling through Europe can be the adventure of a lifetime, but the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a long-term traveler, investing in a high-quality, comfortable, and secure travel backpack is a must. From the versatile Osprey Farpoint 40 to the sleek Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, the choices are endless. However, by focusing on size, durability, comfort, and security, you’ll be able to find the backpack that best suits your needs.
So, pack light, stay organized, and enjoy your European journey with the best travel backpack suited to your adventure!
