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  4. 10 Best Backpacks for Travel UK 2022 | Osprey, The North Face and More
  • 10 Best Backpacks for Travel UK 2022 | Osprey, The North Face and More 1
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10 Best Backpacks for Travel UK 2022 | Osprey, The North Face and More

Backpacking is becoming such an immense trend across the whole world, with the wanderlust community planning trips to Asia and Europe to explore the world on foot! If you've booked a backpacking trip and you're scanning Amazon or eBay for everything that you need, you'll be pleased to know that we've got you covered. The first thing that you should tick off your list is a travel backpack to carry all your valuables.


There's quite a large selection available on the market for both men and women, including wheeled options, and it can be difficult to know exactly what to buy. There are a few things to consider when you're searching the market for a new travel backpack, such as the weight, the material and if you're fashion-forward, the colour! The variations are endless but luckily, we've researched popular brands like North Face and Osprey to help you with your choice. 

Last updated 28/03/2024
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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Backpack for Travel in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Consider Sizing to Ensure You Get the Right Size for Your Trip
  2. Opt For a Backpack That’s Both Light and Sturdy
  3. Ease Weight on Your Back With Padded Shoulder Straps and Chest Ties
  4. For Optimal Organisation, Look For Multiple Pockets and Packing Cubes
  5. Protect Your Belongings With Waterproof and Heavy-Duty Materials
  6. If You Want to Travel in Comfort, Choose a Wheeled Backpack
1

Get the Right Size for Your Trip: 40 Litres Is Enough Most Travellers and Can Be Taken as a Carry-On

Get the Right Size for Your Trip: 40 Litres Is Enough Most Travellers and Can Be Taken as a Carry-On

If you're travelling for hours at a time, the last thing you want is to have to drag around a huge, heavy bag everywhere you go. Luckily, most of the top-selling brands for travel backpacks create designs that don't weigh too much. Although, the heavy-duty backpacks that are made for the high-intensity trips are a little heavier.


Try to consider what type of holiday you're going on - you might need a bag with a sturdier structure if you have an adventure-packed itinerary. On the other hand, if you plan on taking a laidback journey cross-country, you should be able to take a lighter backpack as you won't need such robust frameworks and materials.


To stay hydrated on the go, try our Best Water Bottles With Filters!

2

Make Sure That the Backpack Is Lightweight Yet Sturdy Enough for Travel

Make Sure That the Backpack Is Lightweight Yet Sturdy Enough for Travel

If you find yourself in the middle of the wilderness, five days into your two-week camping trip with nothing but worn, dirty clothes to wear - you're doing it wrong. One crucial factor of packing for a holiday is the volume capacity of the bag. With a travel backpack, you can store around 40 litres inside, with some backpacks even stretching to 120 litres!


Consider the available capacity when you're deciding which backpack to buy. Ask yourself how long you're planning on travelling for and how much you really need to pack. Don't forget, some travelling backpacks are designed specifically for camping, meaning that as well as the internal storage, you can also strap on your tent, sleeping bag, and hiking sticks to the outside of the bag! 


Keep an eye out for a reasonably priced 40-litre bag - that's the standard size for the average traveller, especially for beginners who are looking to buy their first travel backpack!.

3

Ease the Pressure and Ensure Postural Support on Long Journeys With Padded Shoulder Straps and Chest Ties

Ease the Pressure and Ensure Postural Support on Long Journeys With Padded Shoulder Straps and Chest Ties

If like most of us, you have a tendency to overpack your travel bag, it's a good idea to find a backpack with padded shoulder straps. This will help to keep you comfortable while you're exploring on your holiday. Usually, padded shoulder straps are an included feature in popular travel backpacks. Although, it's best to keep an eye out and aim for as much comfort as possible!


It can be tiring to carry over a week's worth of clothes on your back, especially if you're travelling on the go. Having that extra support can be a great help, which is why chest straps are a popular feature when deciding which backpack to buy.


This strap is attached to both shoulder straps with a buckle in the middle to fasten across your chest. Fastening this will cause a slight pull as the weight becomes more evenly balanced across your top half, making your hike a whole lot easier!


For more comfort while you travel, try out Best Walking Sandals!

4

Keep Everything Organised With Multiple Pockets and Packing Cubes

Keep Everything Organised With Multiple Pockets and Packing Cubes

Making sure that your travel backpack has multiple storage pockets will make packing and repacking so much easier while you're on the go. You can have several sections in your bag where you can store your essentials; money, passport, chargers, and any other important things that you don't want to lose! 


Multi-pockets are commonly found in travel backpacks, and some even have re-attachable pouches in case you're wanting to pack lightly. Along with the extra storage pockets, you could also find other useful storage compartments such as compression straps for sleeping bags, coats, or even a tent! 

5

Aim for Waterproof, Heavy-Duty Materials to Protect Your Belongings

Aim for Waterproof, Heavy-Duty Materials to Protect Your Belongings

Travelling in wet, windy weather can be made much worse when you open your bag to find that your supply of clothes for the next week has been soaked in rainwater. To avoid this, try to hunt down a heavy-duty material backpack - it shouldn't be too hard, but it can be a challenge to find a bag that's sturdy, waterproof and lightweight. 


The heavy-duty material will be hugely beneficial to you and should protect all of your belongings no matter how much wear and tear your backpack goes through on your trip. A few of the best heavy-duty materials that are commonly seen in travel backpacks are high-quality polyester, nylon and Cordura nylon. 

6

Consider Wheeled Backpacks If You're Travelling for Work or Going on a City Break

Consider Wheeled Backpacks If You're Travelling for Work or Going on a City Break

Consider opting for a backpack with wheels to avoid having to carry so much weight on your back every time that you move between destinations. They may not be suitable for trekking as they don't provide the same level of comfort as the regular backpacks when carried, but they give you the best of both worlds!


If you like the idea of wheeling your backpack around large stations and airports, trolley backpacks might be a better option for you. Many feature extendable handles that allow you wheel them around like a suitcase. Thus, they're a versatile alternative that provide you with two different carrying options, giving you the occasional rest you need when on the go.


For more travel essentials, check out our Best Women's Sun Hats!

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Backpacks for Travel in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Osprey

Europe Women's Fairview 40 Travel Pack

Osprey Europe Women's Fairview 40 Travel Pack 1

£79.00

Mid

Highly Rated by Thousands of Travellers as the Best All-Rounder

2

Osprey

Talon 33 Backpack

Osprey Talon 33 Backpack  1

£92.27

High Mid

Top Choice for a Small Yet Practical Outdoor Backpack

3

Andes

Extra Large Hiking Backpack

Andes Extra Large Hiking Backpack 1

£29.99

Low Mid

An Affordable 120-Litre Bag for Long Haul Trips

4

The North Face

Terra 65 Hiking Backpack

The North Face  Terra 65 Hiking Backpack 1

£173.65

High Mid

Designed for Multi-Day Expeditions With Great Organisation and Weight Distribution

5

Doshwin

70L Backpack

Doshwin 70L Backpack 1

£39.98

Mid

A Strong and Durable Travel Backpack

6

T1SE 1SFE

Large Military Tactical Rucksack

T1SE 1SFE Large Military Tactical Rucksack 1

£52.97

Mid

A Tough, Military-Grade Option for Adventures in the Wild

7

POKARLA

Lightweight Packable Travel Backpack

POKARLA Lightweight Packable Travel Backpack 1

£22.99

Low Mid

Ideal for Light Use With a Weight of Just 400 Grams

8

Deuter

Helion 60 Travel Backpack

Deuter Helion 60 Travel Backpack 1

£216.00

High

The Optimal Companion for Business Travel

9

Mountain Warehouse

Voyager Wheelie Rucksack

Mountain Warehouse Voyager Wheelie Rucksack 1

£54.99

Mid

Wheeled Backpack With Concealed Straps

10

Trespass

Casual Hiking Backpack

Trespass Casual Hiking Backpack 1

£19.00

Low

Lightweight and Compact for Short Trips and Treks

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

OspreyEurope Women's Fairview 40 Travel Pack

Europe Women's Fairview 40 Travel Pack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£79.00
Mid
Reference price
£79.00
Mid

Highly Rated by Thousands of Travellers as the Best All-Rounder

This high-quality backpack is the perfect addition to any traveler's collection. With lightweight material, you can take this travel bag anywhere, whether it's the airport or the rainforest. The detachable daypack provides additional storage, ideal for day trips or as a carry on. 


This bag features padded straps, breathable material, multiple compartments, and intricate interior lining. Built for strength and durability, this affordable travel backpack is high-rated among travellers

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

OspreyTalon 33 Backpack

Talon 33 Backpack  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£92.27
High Mid
Reference price
£92.27
High Mid

Top Choice for a Small Yet Practical Outdoor Backpack

The intricately designed travel backpack is highly rated for its accordion foam back panel combined with a seamless body wrap belt which helps to increase airflow and provides extra comfort. The Talon 33 prides itself on versatility, practicality, and comfort.


The backpack is complete with zipped pockets on each side of the hip belt to allow quick and easy access to valuable, smaller items like your wallet, phone, or GPS. The front of the backpack features a  PowerMesh pocket, which is great for storing wet clothes or muddy boots!  

No.3

AndesExtra Large Hiking Backpack

Extra Large Hiking Backpack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£29.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£29.99
Low Mid

An Affordable 120-Litre Bag for Long Haul Trips

This extra-large camouflage backpack can hold up to 120 litres, with a strong and robust design to keep your items safe and dry. Along with the padded shoulder straps, this backpack also features a chest strap, providing top-level comfort and support.


This hiking bag has a drawstring closure, two side zips, two mesh pockets, three front pockets, one small top pocket, and a large bottom compartment. With a variety of different compartments, you could store over a week's worth of clothes in this bag, making it an ideal backpack for someone who's planning a long-haul trip

No.4

The North Face Terra 65 Hiking Backpack

Terra 65 Hiking Backpack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£173.65
High Mid
Reference price
£173.65
High Mid

Designed for Multi-Day Expeditions With Great Organisation and Weight Distribution

Ideal for an exciting trip away, you can store everything you need in this bag, as it has many unique storage solutions, such as a front stash pocket which allows for efficient storage and a floating lid to keep your sleeping bag or tent.


This versatile backpack features a comfortable back panel made from soft foam and breathable mesh. Great for organised packing, it also has a chest strap for weight balance and a dynamic lift-system to help you handle the load - perfect for heavy packers!

No.5

Doshwin70L Backpack

70L Backpack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£39.98
Mid
Reference price
£39.98
Mid

A Strong and Durable Travel Backpack

This backpack is designed for easy travelling and has everything that you need in preparation for your travels. You can use 70 litres of storage space, secured by both zips and buckles, to keep a hold of your belongings. And, you can use the compression straps to carry your tent, your trekking poles and all of your other extra gear. 


This bag prides itself on strength and durability. With longlasting and waterproof fabric, you can take this bag anywhere. The breathable mesh padded shoulder straps make for a comfortable experience, and you can use the chest strap to help you balance the extra weight. 

No.6

T1SE 1SFELarge Military Tactical Rucksack

Large Military Tactical Rucksack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£52.97
Mid
Reference price
£52.97
Mid

A Tough, Military-Grade Option for Adventures in the Wild

This travel backpack is heavily adorned with pockets, velcro straps, and belt buckles, giving you every opportunity for great organisation. With heavy-duty material and padded straps, you can carry around up to 40 litres with you on your trip. 


This military-style tactical travel bag is ideal for a camping trip, an adventurous hike or even a jungle expedition. Consider your travel plans to help you decide if this bag is best for you. Although this backpack is priced slightly more than others on the market, you're definitely investing in a good value for money - you can carry your clothes, food, and other essentials with you at all times of your trip! 

No.7

POKARLALightweight Packable Travel Backpack

Lightweight Packable Travel Backpack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£22.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£22.99
Low Mid

Ideal for Light Use With a Weight of Just 400 Grams

Weighing just 400 grams, this stylish bag is light to carry and can store up to 40 litres inside! You can choose from the 15 popular designs that are available on Amazon in a wide variety of colours and patterns. 


This bag features multiple compartments, which is a huge benefit for organisational purposes - it's super convenient having those extra little pockets to keep your things safe. Not to mention, this backpack has chest straps which means that the weight of your bag can be evenly distributed across your chest, shoulders, and back. 

No.8

DeuterHelion 60 Travel Backpack

Helion 60 Travel Backpack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£216.00
High
Reference price
£216.00
High

The Optimal Companion for Business Travel

Here's another piece with a super adaptability that allows you carry it or roll it depending on where you are and how you'd prefer to carry it. It's got a cushion back panel, smooth sturdy rolling wheels that are easily replaceable, stowable shoulder straps, and an ergonomic handle.


In addition to the exterior pockets, the interior is loaded with multiple storage pockets to aid with organisation and separation of items. The interior is also very spacious and the internal compression straps help to keep everything in place. Note, however, that with it's large dimensions, it is not suitable for carry on use and does need to be checked.

No.9

Mountain WarehouseVoyager Wheelie Rucksack

Voyager Wheelie Rucksack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£54.99
Mid
Reference price
£54.99
Mid

Wheeled Backpack With Concealed Straps

This comfortable backpack is ideal for light hikes or as an airport carry-on. With multiple storage pockets and comfortable straps, this 35-litre bag is great for short-term travels, as opposed to hard-wearing journeys. It is ideal for minimalistic travellers as it doesn't hold too much.


It features concealed straps which you can simply put away into the bag when not in use, making a more tidy appearance and less hassle! If you're looking for a quick solution that can keep your valuables safe on your trip, this compact bag could be what you're looking for. 

No.10

TrespassCasual Hiking Backpack

Casual Hiking Backpack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£19.00
Low
Reference price
£19.00
Low

Lightweight and Compact for Short Trips and Treks

This compact travel backpack can store up to 28 litres, and features padded shoulder straps and a headphone slot at the top so that you can listen to music on the go! It's very lightweight and the straps require no 'break in' period at all.


Trespass has designed this bag with mesh pockets on the outside, to keep a tight hold of things like your water bottle, keys or phone - it's ideal for a day trip to the lakes or a hike through the forest. The material is durable and sturdy so it can last through the journey, although, the limited storage space means that this bag is better for a short trip. 

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Written and researched by Annie Speight

Top 5 Backpacks for Travel

No. 1: OspreyEurope Women's Fairview 40 Travel Pack

No. 2: OspreyTalon 33 Backpack

No. 3: AndesExtra Large Hiking Backpack

No. 4: The North Face Terra 65 Hiking Backpack

No. 5: Doshwin70L Backpack

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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