7 Best Travel Backpacks for Women in 2024
Looking for the best travel backpack for women? Check out our blog post where we review 7 amazing options that are stylish, comfortable and functional. Whether you need a backpack for a weekend getaway, a long-term adventure or a business trip, we have something for you. Find out the features, pros and cons of each backpack and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Michele Sturgis
10/27/202319 min read
Traveling is one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences in life. Whether you're exploring a new city, hiking in the wilderness, or jetting off to a business meeting, you need a reliable and comfortable backpack to carry your essentials.
But not all backpacks are created equal. Some are too bulky, too heavy, or too plain. Some don't have enough pockets, compartments, or features to suit your needs. And some just don't look good on you.
That's why we've compiled this list of the 7 best travel backpacks for women in 2024. These backpacks are designed with women's preferences and proportions in mind. They are stylish, functional, durable, and versatile. They can fit everything you need for a short or long trip, from your laptop to your shoes. And they can adapt to different situations, from urban adventures to outdoor escapades.
To help you choose the best travel backpack for you, we've compared them based on their capacity, dimensions, weight, features, material, water-resistance and price. We've also provided our overall ratings and picked one backpack as our editor's choice, explaining why we think it's the best.
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L is a versatile, durable and stylish backpack that can adapt to different travel scenarios and everyday use. It has a sleek and minimalist design, with multiple pockets and compartments for organizing your gear. It can expand from 27L to 33L, and has external carry straps for attaching bulky items. It also has a rear access panel that opens up the entire main compartment, making it easy to pack and unpack.
Dimensions: 20.9 x 13 x 7 inches (standard), 20.9 x 13 x 7.9 inches (expanded)
Capacity: 27L (standard), 33L (expanded)
Weight: 3 lbs. 2.7 oz.
Material: 400D nylon canvas shell, 900D waterproof bottom liner
Water-Resistant: Yes, with weatherproof zippers and DWR coating
Key Features:
Separate laptop and tablet sleeve that fits up to 15" devices
Enlarged top pocket with internal stretch and zip pockets for small items
Expansive side pockets that can fit water bottles or tripods
Stowable shoulder straps and optional hip belt for comfortable carry
Theft-deterrent zipper pulls and protected luggage tag holder
Luggage pass-through for roller bag carry
Compatible with Peak Design packing tools, pouches and accessories (sold separately)
Pros:
High-quality materials and craftsmanship
Sleek and modern design
Expandable and adaptable to different needs
Easy access and organization
Comfortable and ergonomic
Cons:
Expensive compared to other backpacks of similar size
Camera cubes only fit when fully expanded
Hip belt not included and sold separately
Our Rating: 4.7
If you are looking for a versatile and comfortable backpack for your outdoor adventures, you might want to check out the REI Co-op Trail 40 Pack for women. This backpack has many benefits that make it a great choice for hiking, camping, or traveling. The backpack is designed to fit the female body shape and provide optimal comfort and support. It has a spacious main compartment that can fit all your essentials, as well as multiple pockets and attachment points for easy organization and access. It also has a rain cover, a hydration sleeve, and a removable lid that can be used as a daypack.
Capacity: The backpack has a capacity of 40 liters, which is enough for a weekend trip or a long day hike. It can fit a sleeping bag, a tent, clothing, food, water, and other gear.
Dimensions: The backpack measures 24 x 13 x 10.5 inches, which is within the carry-on size limit for most airlines. It also has compression straps that can reduce the volume when needed.
Weight: The backpack weighs 3 lbs. 2 oz., which is relatively lightweight for its size and features. It has a sturdy aluminum frame that distributes the load evenly and a padded mesh back panel that enhances ventilation and comfort.
Key Features: The backpack has many features that make it convenient and functional. Some of the features are:
A U-shaped zipper that allows easy access to the main compartment
A zippered pocket on the front that can fit a map, a guidebook, or other items
Two stretchy side pockets that can hold water bottles or trekking poles
A zippered pocket on the hip belt that can store snacks, keys, or a phone
A zippered pocket on the top lid that can store sunglasses, a hat, or other small items
A rain cover that can protect the backpack from wet weather
A hydration sleeve that can fit up to a 3-liter reservoir (not included)
A removable top lid that can be used as a daypack or a pillow
A sternum strap with a whistle buckle that can provide stability and safety
A load lifter strap that can adjust the fit and balance of the backpack
A bottom compartment that can separate dirty or wet items from the rest of the gear
Material: The backpack is made of durable nylon fabric that can withstand abrasion and tear. It also has a water-resistant coating that can repel light rain or snow.
Water-Resistant: The backpack is water-resistant but not waterproof. It can resist light rain or snow, but it cannot withstand heavy downpour or submersion. The rain cover can provide extra protection in wet conditions.
Price: The backpack costs $149, which is reasonable for its quality and features. It also comes with a lifetime warranty from REI.
Our Rating: We give this backpack 4.5 out of 5 stars for its comfort, functionality, and versatility. It is suitable for various outdoor activities and can fit different body types and preferences.
Our Rating: 4.5
Pros:
Comfortable and supportive fit for women
Spacious and organized main compartment
Multiple pockets and attachment points for easy access and storage
Rain cover, hydration sleeve, and removable lid included
Lightweight and durable material
Reasonable price and lifetime warranty
Cons:
Not waterproof without the rain cover
Hydration reservoir not included
May be too large for some users or situations
The Monos Metro Backpack is a sleek and minimalist backpack that offers functionality and style for urban travelers. It has a spacious main compartment that can fit a 16-inch laptop, a tablet, and other essentials. The backpack also features a front zippered pocket, a side water bottle pocket, and a hidden back pocket for valuables. The backpack is made of durable nylon fabric that is water-resistant and easy to clean. The backpack also has a padded back panel and shoulder straps for comfort and support. The backpack comes in various colors and has a lifetime warranty.
Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 6 inches
Capacity: 20 liters
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Material: Nylon with DWR coating and vegan leather accents
Water-Resistant: Yes
Key Features:
Laptop sleeve
front zippered pocket
side water bottle pocket
hidden back pocket
padded back panel and shoulder straps
lifetime warranty
Pros:
Spacious
Sleek
Durable
Comfortable
Versatile
Cons:
Expensive
No sternum strap or waist belt
No internal organization
Our Rating: 4.5
The Arc'teryx Granville 25 Backpack is a versatile and stylish backpack that can handle urban adventures and outdoor trips. It has a sleek design and a durable construction that makes it stand out from other backpacks. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality backpack that can handle different scenarios. It is ideal for commuters, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts who value functionality and style. It has a simple yet elegant design that matches any outfit and a durable material that protects your belongings from the elements. It has enough space and compartments to store your essentials and keep them organized. However, it is also quite pricey and may not suit everyone's budget or preferences. It also lacks some features that other backpacks have, such as side pockets or compression straps. Overall, we think this backpack is worth the investment if you are looking for a reliable and fashionable backpack that can last for years.
Dimensions: 19.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches
Capacity: 25 liters
Weight: 2.2 pounds
Material: Nylon with AC² (Advanced Composite Construction) technology and TPU coating
Water-Resistant: Yes
Key Features:
Zippered back panel access to the main compartment
Padded laptop sleeve that fits up to 15-inch laptops
External zippered pocket with key clip and organization slots
Reflective logo for visibility in low light
Top grab handle and padded shoulder straps
Pros:
Lightweight and comfortable to carry
Waterproof and weather-resistant
Spacious and well-organized interior
Stylish and minimalist design
Cons:
Expensive compared to other backpacks of similar size and features
No side pockets or compression straps for extra storage or stability
Our Rating: 4.5
The Nomatic Travel Pack Backpack is a versatile and sleek backpack that can expand from 20L to 30L to suit your travel needs. Whether you are going on a weekend trip or a daily commute, this backpack has plenty of features to keep you organized and comfortable. We think the Nomatic Travel Pack Backpack is a great option for travelers who want a backpack that can adapt to different situations and carry a lot of gear. It has a sleek and professional look that can fit in any setting, and it has many features that make it functional and secure. However, it is not the most comfortable or lightweight backpack, and it can be difficult to use some of the internal pockets. Overall, we think it is a high-quality backpack that offers a lot of value for its price.
Dimensions: 18.5” x 12” x 6-9.5”
Capacity: 20L | 30L (when expanded)
Weight: 4lbs 3oz
Material: Tarpaulin
Water-Resistant: Yes
Key Features:
Removable hard shell sunglasses case
Magnetic water bottle pockets
RFID safe pocket
Laptop and tablet compartment
Hidden pocket for valuables
Expandable main compartment
Removable waist straps
Sternum strap
Roller bag sleeve
Pros:
Stylish and low-profile design
Durable and water-resistant material
Multiple pockets and compartments for organization
Expandability adds flexibility
Cons:
Heavy and bulky when fully loaded
Harness system can be uncomfortable
Internal organization can be hard to access
Our Rating: 4.4
If you are looking for a stylish and secure backpack for your travels, you might want to check out the Pacsafe Women's Citysafe CX 17L. This backpack is designed to protect your belongings from theft and damage, while also offering comfort and convenience. We think this backpack is a great choice for women who want to travel with peace of mind and style. It has plenty of room for your essentials, as well as a laptop compartment that fits up to a 16-inch device. The backpack is made of Econyl regenerated nylon, which is a sustainable material that reduces waste and greenhouse gas emissions. The backpack also features various anti-theft technologies, such as RFID-blocking pocket, lockable zippers, slashguard fabric, and turn and lock security hooks. These features prevent thieves from accessing or stealing your backpack or its contents. The backpack is also water-resistant and easy to clean. The backpack has padded shoulder straps and a back panel that provide comfort and breathability. The backpack also has a luggage slip that allows you to attach it to your suitcase handle for easy transport. The only drawbacks of this backpack are its high price tag, lack of side pockets, and limited color options. However, if you value security and quality over these factors, you might find this backpack worth the investment.
Dimensions: 15.4 x 10.6 x 6.3 inches
Capacity: 17 liters
Weight: 1.68 pounds
Material: Econyl regenerated nylon
Water-Resistant: Yes
Key Features:
RFID-blocking pocket
lockable zipperssl
ashguard fabricturn and lock security hooks
laptop compartment, luggage slip
Pros:
Stylish
Lightweight
Durable
Eco-friendly
Spacious
Secure
Comfortable
Cons:
Expensive
No side pockets
Limited color options
Our Rating: 4.5
The Osprey Kyte 46 is a versatile and durable backpack designed for women who love hiking, camping, and traveling. It has a women's specific fit that provides comfort and stability for different body shapes and sizes. It has plenty of features and pockets to organize your gear and essentials, as well as an integrated raincover to protect your belongings from the elements. Whether you are going for a weekend trip, a long day hike, or a peakbagging adventure, the Osprey Kyte 46 can handle it all.
Dimensions: 25.6 x 13.4 x 12.6 inches
Capacity: 46 liters
Weight: 3.53 lbs
Material: 210-denier x 630-denier nylon dobby/500-denier nylon packcloth
Water-Resistant: Yes, with integrated raincover
Key Features:
Lightweight AirScape back panel with adjustable harness
RFID-blocking pocket
Zippered sleeping bag compartment with floating divider; removable sleeping bag straps
Dual tuckaway simple ice-tool attachments; stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment; dual front-panel daisy chains
Dual upper reverse StraightJacket side compression straps; dual lower side compression straps
Side zipper access to main compartment
Front panel hybrid shove-it pocket; dual stretch-mesh side pockets; zippered hipbelt pockets
Fixed top lid with external zippered pocket and under-lid zippered mesh pocket
External reservoir sleeve (reservoir sold separately)
Pros:
Versatile and adaptable for different activities and environments
Comfortable and supportive for women's anatomy
Durable and reliable with high-quality materials and construction
Well-organized and spacious with multiple access points and pockets
Stylish and functional with attractive colors and design
Cons:
A bit heavy for its size and capacity
Top lid is not removable or extendable
No bottom access to main compartment
Our Rating: 4.5
8.Editor's Choice
Our editor's choice for the best backpack of 2023 is the Peak Design Travel Pack 30L. This backpack is designed for travelers who want a versatile, durable, and stylish bag that can adapt to different situations and needs. The Peak Design Travel Pack 30L has several features that make it stand out from the rest, such as:
A clamshell opening that allows easy access and packing
A modular system that lets you customize the internal organization with optional accessories
A weatherproof and rugged exterior that protects your belongings from the elements
A comfortable and adjustable harness system that distributes the weight evenly and fits different body types
A sleek and minimalist design that looks good in any setting
A lifetime warranty that covers any defects or damages
The Peak Design Travel Pack 30L is not only a great backpack for travel, but also for everyday use, work, photography, and more. It can expand from 30L to 45L when you need more space, or compress to 22L when you want a smaller profile. It also has multiple external pockets and access points for your essentials, such as a laptop, tablet, passport, water bottle, and keys. The Peak Design Travel Pack 30L is a backpack that can handle any adventure you throw at it, and look good while doing it.
9.FAQ
Q1: How do I choose a backpack that fits me well?
A1: Choosing a backpack that fits you well is important for your comfort, posture and health. A poorly fitted backpack can cause back pain, shoulder strain, neck stiffness and other problems. Here are some tips on how to choose a backpack that fits you well:
Measure your torso length and hip size. Your torso length is the distance from the base of your neck to the top of your hips. Your hip size is the circumference around the widest part of your hips. These measurements will help you find a backpack that matches your body size and shape.
Look for a backpack that has an adjustable harness system. This means that you can adjust the length of the shoulder straps, the position of the sternum strap, and the tightness of the hip belt. You want to make sure that the backpack fits snugly on your back, without sagging or pulling on your shoulders.
Choose a backpack that has a padded back panel, shoulder straps and hip belt. These features will provide cushioning and support for your back, shoulders and hips, and prevent chafing and rubbing. You also want to look for a backpack that has a breathable mesh fabric on these areas, to allow air circulation and prevent sweating.
Pick a backpack that has a suitable capacity and weight for your needs. You don't want to carry more than you need, or more than you can handle. A general rule of thumb is that your backpack should not weigh more than 10% of your body weight, and should not exceed the width of your shoulders or the length of your torso.
Try on the backpack before you buy it, or if you buy it online, make sure you can return it if it doesn't fit well. Load the backpack with some items that simulate the weight and shape of what you will be carrying, and adjust the harness system accordingly. Walk around with the backpack for a few minutes, and check how it feels on your back, shoulders and hips. Make sure there are no gaps, pinching, slipping or bouncing.
Following these tips will help you choose a backpack that fits you well and suits your needs. A well-fitted backpack will make your travels more comfortable and enjoyable.
Q2: What features should I look for in a women's backpack?
A2: A women's backpack is a versatile and practical accessory that can help you carry your essentials with comfort and style. Whether you need a backpack for travel, work, school, or everyday use, there are some features that you should look for to find the best one for your needs. Here are some of them:
Size and capacity: The size and capacity of your backpack should match your body type and the amount of items you want to carry. A backpack that is too big or too small can cause discomfort, imbalance, or injury. You can measure your torso length and compare it to the backpack's dimensions to find the right fit. You can also check the backpack's volume, which is usually expressed in liters, to estimate how much it can hold.
Comfort and fit: A women's backpack should have adjustable straps, padded back panel, and a sternum strap or a hip belt to distribute the weight evenly and prevent strain on your shoulders and back. You should also look for a backpack that has a women-specific design, which means that it has narrower shoulder straps, shorter torso length, and curved hip belt to suit your anatomy and preferences.
Organization and accessibility: A women's backpack should have enough compartments, pockets, and zippers to organize your items and access them easily. You should look for a backpack that has a main compartment that opens fully or partially, a laptop sleeve or a tablet pocket, an external pocket for quick access items, and side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas. You should also look for a backpack that has security features, such as lockable zippers, hidden pockets, or anti-theft technology to protect your valuables.
Style and durability: A women's backpack should have a style and a color that matches your personality and wardrobe. You should look for a backpack that has a sleek and minimalist design, a vibrant and colorful pattern, or a classic and elegant look. You should also look for a backpack that has a durable and water-resistant material, such as nylon, polyester, or leather, and sturdy and smooth zippers, buckles, and hardware.
Q3: How do I pack my backpack for travel?
A3: Packing your backpack for travel can be a challenging task, especially if you want to optimize space, weight and comfort. Here are some tips to help you pack your backpack efficiently and effectively.
Choose the right backpack for your trip. Consider the size, shape, material and features of the backpack that suit your travel needs and preferences. You may want a backpack that has multiple compartments, adjustable straps, water-resistant fabric, etc.
Make a list of the items you need to pack. Prioritize the essentials, such as passport, money, phone, charger, toiletries, etc. and eliminate any unnecessary items that will only add bulk and weight to your backpack. You may also want to check the weather and culture of your destination to pack appropriate clothing and accessories.
Organize your items by category and use packing cubes, ziplock bags or compression sacks to separate them. This will help you find what you need quickly and easily, as well as keep your items clean and protected. You can also roll or fold your clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles.
Distribute the weight of your items evenly in your backpack. Put the heaviest items at the bottom and close to your back, and the lighter items at the top and away from your back. This will help you balance your backpack and reduce strain on your shoulders and back. You can also use the side pockets and external straps to attach items that you need to access frequently or that don't fit inside the backpack, such as water bottle, umbrella, jacket, etc.
Adjust the straps of your backpack to fit your body snugly and comfortably. You should be able to move freely and breathe easily with your backpack on. You can also use the chest strap and waist belt to secure your backpack and distribute the weight more evenly.
Q4: How do I clean and maintain my backpack?
A4: Backpacks are essential items for travelers, students, and professionals alike. They can store a variety of items, from laptops and books to clothes and snacks. However, backpacks can also get dirty and worn out over time, especially if they are exposed to harsh weather conditions or heavy use. Therefore, it is important to clean and maintain your backpack regularly to keep it in good shape and extend its lifespan.
Here are some steps you can follow to clean and maintain your backpack:
Empty your backpack completely and check all the pockets and compartments for any items that might have been left behind. You don't want to wash your backpack with anything inside that could get damaged or cause stains.
Turn your backpack inside out and shake it gently to remove any dust, crumbs, or loose dirt. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to clean the interior of your backpack more thoroughly.
Check the label or the manufacturer's website for any specific instructions on how to wash your backpack. Some backpacks are machine-washable, while others require hand-washing or spot-cleaning only. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your backpack or voiding its warranty.
If your backpack is machine-washable, place it in a laundry bag or a pillowcase to protect it from getting snagged or torn by the washing machine. Use a mild detergent and cold water, and select a gentle cycle. Do not use bleach, fabric softener, or dryer sheets, as they can damage the fabric or the zippers of your backpack.
If your backpack is not machine-washable, fill a large sink or a bathtub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge your backpack in the water and gently scrub it with a soft sponge or a cloth. Pay special attention to any stains or areas that are particularly dirty. Rinse your backpack thoroughly with clean water until no soap residue remains.
Hang your backpack upside down in a well-ventilated area to air-dry. Do not use a hair dryer, an iron, or a tumble dryer, as they can cause shrinkage, melting, or warping of your backpack. Make sure your backpack is completely dry before storing it or using it again.
To maintain your backpack, you can apply a waterproofing spray or a fabric protector to the exterior of your backpack once or twice a year. This will help repel water, dirt, and stains, and keep your backpack looking new. You can also lubricate the zippers with some wax or oil to prevent them from getting stuck or rusty.
Q5: How can women pack their backpacks for travel in a way that is both comfortable and efficient?
A5: Packing a backpack for travel can be a challenge, especially for women who want to balance comfort and efficiency. Here are some tips to help you pack your backpack in a smart way.
Choose a backpack that fits your body size and shape. Look for features such as adjustable straps, padded back panel, hip belt, and sternum strap that can help distribute the weight evenly and reduce strain on your shoulders and back.
Pack the heaviest items, such as shoes, toiletries, and electronics, near the bottom and close to your spine. This will lower your center of gravity and improve your stability and posture.
Pack the lightest items, such as clothes, sleeping bag, and pillow, near the top and away from your spine. This will reduce the pressure on your lower back and make it easier to access them when needed.
Pack the items that you need frequently, such as snacks, water bottle, map, and sunglasses, in the outer pockets or on the top lid of your backpack. This will save you time and hassle from digging through your backpack every time you need something.
Use compression bags, packing cubes, or ziplock bags to organize your items by category and compress them to save space. This will also make it easier to find what you need and keep your backpack tidy.
Roll your clothes instead of folding them to prevent wrinkles and maximize space. You can also use the rolling method to create bundles of clothes that can act as cushions for fragile items or fill gaps in your backpack.
Pack only what you need and avoid overpacking. A good rule of thumb is to lay out everything you want to pack and then remove half of it. You can also use a packing list to help you decide what is essential and what is not.
Wear your bulkiest items, such as jacket, boots, and hat, instead of packing them in your backpack. This will free up space and weight in your backpack and keep you warm and comfortable during your travel.
10.Buyer's Guide
A travel backpack is a must-have item for any woman who loves to explore new places and enjoy different cultures. But how do you choose the best one for your needs? Here are some tips to help you find the perfect travel backpack for women.
Size: The size of your backpack depends on how much you plan to pack and how long you will be traveling. A general rule is to choose a backpack that is no more than 10% of your body weight and has a capacity of 40 to 60 liters. This will ensure that you have enough space for your essentials without overloading your back and shoulders.
Fit: The fit of your backpack is crucial for your comfort and safety. You want a backpack that is designed for women's body shape, with narrower shoulders, shorter torso, and curved hip belt. You also want to adjust the straps and buckles to fit snugly but not too tightly. A good fit will distribute the weight evenly and prevent injuries or pain.
Features: The features of your backpack can make your travel experience more convenient and enjoyable.
Some features to look for are
-Multiple compartments and pockets to organize your items and access them easily.
- Lockable zippers and security straps to protect your belongings from theft or loss.
- Water-resistant or waterproof material to keep your stuff dry in case of rain or spills.
- Detachable daypack or rain cover to adapt to different situations and weather conditions.
Choosing a travel backpack that suits your style, budget, and preferences. Happy travels!
Overall Rating: 4.7
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