Finding the perfect travel backpack for women can be a challenge.
You need something that is stylish enough to complement your outfit, functional enough to hold all your travel essentials, and lightweight to ensure comfort during long journeys.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a backpacking adventure, the right travel backpack can make all the difference.
To help you choose, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best travel backpacks for women that check all the boxes—stylish, functional, and lightweight!
What to Look for in a Travel Backpack for Women
When choosing the perfect travel backpack, it’s important to think beyond just aesthetics.
A travel backpack should not only look good but also be practical, comfortable, and durable enough to support your travel needs.
Below are the essential factors to consider before making a purchase:
1. Size & Weight
- Size Matters: The size of your backpack should align with the type of trip you’re planning. A smaller backpack (20-30L) might be ideal for a weekend getaway or daily use, while a larger option (30-50L) works better for long-term travel or trips where you need to pack a variety of items. Ensure it meets airline carry-on requirements if you want to avoid checking luggage.
- Lightweight Construction: While size is important, weight is equally crucial. The last thing you want is a backpack that adds unnecessary weight even before you’ve packed anything inside. Look for backpacks made from lightweight materials like nylon or polyester that are durable but won’t weigh you down.
2. Style
- Fashion Meets Function: Travel backpacks are available in a wide variety of styles, from sleek and minimalist designs to rugged and outdoor-oriented options. Choose one that fits your personal style, whether you’re strolling through a city or hiking in the wilderness. Some backpacks are designed to be versatile enough to use in both casual and formal settings, making them a great choice for those who travel for both leisure and business.
- Versatility: Consider a backpack that’s versatile and can be used in various scenarios. A chic leather backpack might look great for urban adventures but may not perform as well on a rugged outdoor trip. Choose a backpack that blends style with practicality.
3. Comfort
- Padded Straps and Back Panel: Comfort is key, especially when you’ll be wearing your backpack for hours. Look for backpacks with padded shoulder straps that evenly distribute weight across your shoulders and prevent soreness. A padded back panel with breathable mesh also helps reduce sweating and improves comfort during long wear.
- Ergonomic Design: The backpack’s shape should conform to your body’s natural curves. Backpacks with an ergonomic design and adjustable straps (both shoulder and waist) provide better support and help distribute weight more evenly, reducing strain on your back and shoulders.
- Hip and Chest Straps: If you’re carrying heavier loads, hip and chest straps are incredibly beneficial. Hip straps take the weight off your shoulders by distributing it to your hips, while chest straps provide extra stability, especially when hiking or walking long distances.
4. Functionality
- Multiple Compartments: A good travel backpack should have multiple compartments and pockets for easy organization. Look for a backpack with dedicated compartments for laptops, water bottles, and small essentials like passports, chargers, or cosmetics. Some backpacks even feature anti-theft pockets for added security.
- Laptop Compartment: If you plan to carry a laptop or tablet, make sure the backpack has a padded compartment to protect your device. Many backpacks offer dedicated laptop sleeves that fit standard laptop sizes (13″ to 15.6″).
- External Access: External pockets for water bottles, sunglasses, and quick-grab items are incredibly convenient, especially during busy travel days. Look for backpacks with side pockets, top pouches, and even front compartments to store items you’ll need quick access to.
- USB Charging Port: For tech-savvy travelers, having a backpack with a built-in USB charging port can be a lifesaver. This feature allows you to connect your power bank inside the backpack and charge your phone or devices while you’re on the go, without needing to dig around in your bag.
5. Durability
- Material: Durability is a major factor, especially if you’re a frequent traveler or plan to use your backpack in rough conditions. High-quality materials like ripstop nylon, polyester, and water-resistant fabrics are ideal because they are lightweight yet strong enough to withstand wear and tear. Leather backpacks may look stylish but can be heavier and less resistant to the elements.
- Water-Resistant or Waterproof: A backpack that can handle the elements is a must, especially for travel. Opt for one made from water-resistant materials, or better yet, one that is fully waterproof, to protect your belongings from sudden rain or spills. Some backpacks come with built-in rain covers, while others require you to purchase one separately.
- Zippers and Hardware: Strong, smooth zippers and durable buckles are essential. Look for metal zippers or heavy-duty plastic zippers that are less likely to break or get stuck. Some backpacks also feature lockable zippers for added security, a great option if you’ll be traveling in crowded places or keeping valuables inside.
6. Travel-Friendly Features
- Carry-On Size Compliance: Many travelers prefer backpacks that are carry-on friendly to avoid checked luggage fees and long waits at the baggage claim. Make sure your chosen backpack fits most airlines’ carry-on requirements, especially if you’re a frequent flyer.
- Expandable Capacity: Some backpacks feature an expandable design that allows you to adjust the capacity depending on your needs. This is especially useful for travelers who may start with a compact pack but want the option to carry souvenirs or extra gear on the way back.
- Anti-Theft Features: For safety, especially in crowded urban areas or when traveling internationally, anti-theft features such as hidden pockets, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking technology are helpful. These features protect your valuables from pickpockets and electronic theft.
7. Eco-Friendliness
- Sustainable Materials: As sustainability becomes a bigger concern, many brands are offering eco-friendly backpacks made from recycled materials or ethically sourced fabrics. If eco-conscious travel is important to you, consider choosing a backpack that aligns with your values.
- Fair Trade Certification: Some brands are committed to fair trade practices, ensuring their products are made ethically and that workers are compensated fairly. If this is a priority for you, look for brands that offer fair trade-certified backpacks.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a travel backpack that’s perfect for your individual needs, whether you’re headed on a weekend getaway, a month-long backpacking adventure, or a business trip.
Keep in mind that the best travel backpack for women should not only be stylish but also functional and comfortable enough to support you through all your travel adventures!
Now, let’s dive into the best travel backpacks for women!
1. Fjällräven Kånken Classic Backpack
Why We Love It: The Fjällräven Kånken is iconic for a reason. Its minimalist design is perfect for style-conscious travelers, and it’s made from durable, water-resistant material.
It’s also lightweight, making it ideal for carrying on long trips.
- Style: Sleek, minimalist, available in various colors.
- Functionality: Features a spacious main compartment, two side pockets, and a front zippered pocket for easy access.
- Weight: 0.7 pounds
2. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
Why We Love It: For the woman on the go, the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is both functional and affordable.
With a built-in USB charger and anti-theft design, it’s perfect for both travel and daily use.
- Style: Professional yet stylish.
- Functionality: Multiple compartments, fits laptops up to 15.6 inches, built-in USB charging port.
- Weight: 1.56 pounds
3. Herschel Little America Backpack
Why We Love It: The Herschel Little America Backpack offers a vintage mountaineering style while still being practical for everyday travel.
The padded shoulder straps provide comfort, while the magnetic strap closures add a stylish touch.
- Style: Classic, mountaineering design.
- Functionality: Large capacity, padded laptop sleeve, drawstring closure, and magnetic snap straps.
- Weight: 2 pounds
4. Tzowla Anti-Theft Backpack
Why We Love It: This backpack is perfect for the security-conscious traveler.
The Tzowla Anti-Theft Backpack has a lockable zipper and hidden compartments to protect your valuables, making it a great companion for crowded places.
- Style: Sleek, modern design.
- Functionality: Anti-theft lock, built-in USB charging port, water-resistant.
- Weight: 1.68 pounds
5. Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack
Why We Love It: If you’re planning a long trip, the Osprey Fairview 40 is a top-notch choice.
It’s designed specifically for women and offers maximum comfort with padded shoulder straps and hip belts.
The lightweight frame ensures you don’t feel weighed down during your adventures.
- Style: Adventure-ready, sleek.
- Functionality: 40-liter capacity, lockable zippers, padded laptop and tablet sleeve.
- Weight: 3.2 pounds
6. Kopack Slim Laptop Backpack
Why We Love It: The Kopack Slim Laptop Backpack is perfect for professional travelers who want a sleek, functional, and lightweight option.
It’s built to last, with anti-theft features and a water-resistant exterior.
- Style: Professional and slim.
- Functionality: Padded laptop compartment, anti-theft design, water-resistant.
- Weight: 1.98 pounds
7. Hynes Eagle 38L Carry-On Backpack
Why We Love It: This backpack is specifically designed for air travel, meeting most carry-on size requirements.
It’s lightweight and comes with multiple compartments, making it easy to organize all your essentials.
- Style: Sleek, practical for air travel.
- Functionality: 38L capacity, multiple compartments, water-repellent fabric.
- Weight: 1.8 pounds
8. The North Face Women’s Borealis Backpack
Why We Love It: The North Face Borealis Backpack is designed for both adventure and urban travel.
With a padded back panel and breathable mesh, it’s comfortable enough for day-long wear while still offering ample space for your essentials.
- Style: Athletic and rugged.
- Functionality: Spacious main compartment, external bungee system, padded laptop sleeve.
- Weight: 2.65 pounds
9. Patagonia Refugio Pack 26L
Why We Love It: Known for its eco-conscious design, the Patagonia Refugio Pack is durable, lightweight, and stylish.
It’s perfect for the environmentally conscious traveler who doesn’t want to sacrifice quality for sustainability.
- Style: Eco-friendly and sleek.
- Functionality: Multiple compartments, padded laptop sleeve, water-repellent fabric.
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
10. Nomatic Travel Pack
Why We Love It: For the tech-savvy traveler, the Nomatic Travel Pack offers an array of compartments, including a waterproof pocket for electronics.
It’s stylish, functional, and expandable, making it perfect for both short trips and longer excursions.
- Style: Sleek, modern design.
- Functionality: RFID-blocking pocket, waterproof compartment, 20L to 30L expandable design.
- Weight: 4 pounds
How to Choose the Right Backpack for Your Travel Style
When choosing the best travel backpack for women, it’s important to consider your specific travel needs.
Are you a weekend traveler or planning a long-term adventure?
Are you traveling for business or leisure?
- For Short Trips: The Fjällräven Kånken or Matein Travel Laptop Backpack are perfect for short getaways, offering compact and lightweight options.
- For Long-Term Travel: If you’re going on an extended trip, the Osprey Fairview 40 or Hynes Eagle 38L offer larger capacities without sacrificing comfort.
- For Professional Use: If you need a backpack that transitions seamlessly from the airport to the office, the Kopack Slim Laptop Backpack or Nomatic Travel Pack are ideal options.
Best Backpack for Specific Needs
Everyone’s travel style is different, so one size doesn’t always fit all.
Depending on your type of travel—whether it’s a quick weekend getaway, a long-term backpacking adventure, or business travel—you’ll need a backpack that fits your specific requirements.
Here’s a breakdown of the best backpacks for various needs based on our top picks.
1. Best Overall: Herschel Little America Backpack
- Why It Stands Out: The Herschel Little America Backpack offers a perfect blend of style, function, and comfort. Its classic mountaineering design is stylish enough for urban travel while being practical for day hikes or weekend getaways. Its padded shoulder straps and back panel make it comfortable for long periods, and the internal storage offers plenty of space for your belongings.
- Ideal For: Travelers who want an all-around versatile backpack that’s fashionable and functional. Whether you’re heading to the airport or exploring a new city, this backpack covers all bases.
- Key Features:
- Spacious main compartment with a drawstring closure.
- Padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve to keep your electronics safe.
- Magnetic strap closures for easy access, combined with the mountaineering style.
- Breathable back padding for enhanced comfort.
- Why You’ll Love It: The Herschel Little America is great for women who value both style and practicality. Its sleek design pairs well with any outfit, while its ample space and functionality make it an excellent travel companion.
2. Best for Budget Travelers: Tzowla Anti-Theft Backpack
- Why It Stands Out: The Tzowla Anti-Theft Backpack is affordable without skimping on key features. It’s loaded with practical elements like a USB charging port and lockable zippers, making it a great choice for travelers looking to save money while still enjoying functionality and security.
- Ideal For: Women who want a practical, feature-packed backpack without breaking the bank. Ideal for city trips, work travel, or short vacations where security and ease of use are top priorities.
- Key Features:
- Built-in USB charging port for on-the-go device charging.
- Anti-theft lockable zippers and hidden compartments to keep your belongings safe.
- Water-resistant material to protect against rain and spills.
- Multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized.
- Why You’ll Love It: The Tzowla is perfect for travelers who want a budget-friendly option with premium features. It’s especially great if you’re traveling to busy cities or need extra security for your belongings.
3. Best for Long-Term Travel: Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack
- Why It Stands Out: The Osprey Fairview 40 is specifically designed for long-term travel. It’s built with women’s bodies in mind, featuring a frame that distributes weight evenly across your hips and shoulders, making it comfortable to carry even when fully loaded. It also meets most airline carry-on size restrictions, making it perfect for globe-trotting without checking bags.
- Ideal For: Backpackers, long-term travelers, or anyone going on extended trips who needs a durable and comfortable backpack with a large carrying capacity.
- Key Features:
- Women-specific fit with adjustable shoulder straps and a padded hip belt for superior comfort.
- 40-liter capacity, providing ample space for packing clothes, gear, and essentials.
- Lockable zippers and multiple compartments for organization.
- Padded laptop sleeve and a front-loading design for easy access to your belongings.
- Why You’ll Love It: If you’re planning a long trip where comfort and capacity are key, the Osprey Fairview 40 offers everything you need. It’s lightweight, durable, and built to handle extended adventures.
4. Best for Short Weekend Trips: Fjällräven Kånken Classic Backpack
- Why It Stands Out: The Fjällräven Kånken is a travel icon, beloved for its lightweight, durable, and minimalist design. It’s compact enough for short trips or daily use but still offers enough space for the essentials. Its retro style adds a fun, fashionable touch, making it one of the most versatile options for women.
- Ideal For: Women who want a stylish yet practical backpack for short weekend getaways, day trips, or as a carry-on for flights.
- Key Features:
- Lightweight, durable Vinylon F fabric that is water-resistant and easy to clean.
- Large main compartment with a two-way zipper for easy access.
- Two side pockets and a front zippered pocket for small items like phones or wallets.
- Sleek, minimalist design available in a wide range of colors to match your style.
- Why You’ll Love It: The Fjällräven Kånken Classic Backpack is perfect for the minimalist traveler. It’s compact, stylish, and comfortable—ideal for women who prefer to travel light but still want a practical, well-organized bag.
5. Best for Business Travel: Kopack Slim Laptop Backpack
- Why It Stands Out: The Kopack Slim Laptop Backpack is designed for professional women on the go. Its slim, modern design makes it perfect for both business trips and casual travel. The padded laptop compartment and sleek look make it great for going straight from the airport to the office.
- Ideal For: Business travelers or professionals who need a backpack that is both stylish and functional. Ideal for carrying a laptop, documents, and other work-related items while on the move.
- Key Features:
- Slim and modern design that fits into any professional setting.
- Padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop.
- Anti-theft hidden zippers and compartments for added security.
- Water-resistant material to protect your electronics and important documents.
- Why You’ll Love It: If you’re a frequent business traveler, the Kopack Slim Laptop Backpack is ideal. It’s designed for both comfort and style, helping you transition seamlessly from work to travel.
6. Best for Outdoor Adventures: The North Face Women’s Borealis Backpack
- Why It Stands Out: The North Face Borealis is designed for the adventurous traveler. It offers plenty of storage and comfort features, such as breathable mesh back padding and adjustable shoulder straps, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and outdoor exploration. The rugged design ensures it can handle the demands of the great outdoors.
- Ideal For: Women who love the outdoors and need a backpack that can handle hikes, camping trips, and other outdoor adventures.
- Key Features:
- Rugged, durable construction built to withstand the elements.
- External bungee system for securing additional gear.
- Padded laptop sleeve, making it versatile for both outdoor and urban use.
- FlexVent suspension system with padded straps and breathable mesh for maximum comfort.
- Why You’ll Love It: Whether you’re trekking through the wilderness or exploring a new city, the North Face Borealis Backpack has the durability and comfort features needed to handle all types of adventures.
7. Best for Eco-Conscious Travelers: Patagonia Refugio Pack 26L
- Why It Stands Out: Patagonia is known for its commitment to sustainability, and the Refugio Pack is no exception. Made from recycled materials, this backpack offers plenty of space and comfort while allowing eco-conscious travelers to make a responsible choice. Its sleek design makes it suitable for both outdoor adventures and urban exploration.
- Ideal For: Environmentally conscious travelers who want a backpack that’s both functional and eco-friendly.
- Key Features:
- Made from recycled polyester and other sustainable materials.
- 26-liter capacity with multiple compartments for organization.
- Padded laptop sleeve and adjustable straps for comfort.
- Water-repellent finish for protection in light rain.
- Why You’ll Love It: If sustainability is important to you, the Patagonia Refugio Pack offers an eco-friendly option without sacrificing quality. It’s perfect for women who want to minimize their environmental impact while still having a functional travel companion.
8. Best for Tech-Savvy Travelers: Nomatic Travel Pack
- Why It Stands Out: The Nomatic Travel Pack is packed with features for tech enthusiasts. It offers specialized compartments for electronics, including a waterproof pocket for devices. The expandable design makes it perfect for both short and long trips, and the sleek look is ideal for modern travelers.
- Ideal For: Women who travel with a lot of tech gadgets or who need a backpack with dedicated compartments for electronics.
- Key Features:
- Expandable design from 20L to 30L to suit different travel needs.
- RFID-blocking pocket to protect personal information.
- Waterproof electronics compartment and plenty of room for tech accessories.
- Sleek, minimalist design for a modern look.
- Why You’ll Love It: The Nomatic Travel Pack is designed for tech-savvy travelers who need ample space and protection for their gadgets. It’s sleek, functional, and adaptable to both short and long trips.
Each backpack on this list has been carefully selected for different types of travelers.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior, an adventure seeker, a business professional, or a long-term traveler, there’s a backpack that fits your specific needs.
By choosing the right backpack, you’ll not only enhance your travel experience but also ensure that your belongings are safe, organized, and easy to access.
Which backpack fits your travel style?
Let us know in the comments!
Conclusion
Choosing the best travel backpack for women doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
With our curated list, you’re sure to find a backpack that fits your style, meets your functional needs, and feels comfortable during your travels.
Whether you prioritize style, comfort, or extra features, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
Which one of these backpacks are you most excited to try on your next adventure?
Let us know in the comments below!
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