Travel backpacks are an essential part of any woman’s travel gear. Whether you’re jet-setting across the globe, embarking on a weekend getaway, or heading out on a hike, a high-quality backpack can make all the difference. The best travel backpacks for women combine comfort, style, and functionality, offering ample space for your belongings while keeping your hands free for exploration. As we look ahead to 2025, here are some of the top picks for the best travel backpacks for women.
What to Look for in a Travel Backpack
Before diving into the top recommendations, let’s review some key features to consider when choosing the best travel backpack for your needs:
1. Comfort and Fit
Comfort is paramount when selecting a travel backpack. Look for adjustable straps, padded shoulder straps, and a well-padded back panel. A padded hip belt can also help distribute the weight evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.
2. Capacity and Organization
The size of your backpack will depend on the length of your trip. For short getaways, a backpack with a 20-30L capacity is ideal, while longer trips might require a backpack with 40L or more. It’s also important to have compartments and pockets for organization, making it easier to access essential items like your phone, passport, and snacks.
3. Durability and Material
Durability is crucial for travel backpacks, as they need to withstand wear and tear. Look for backpacks made from water-resistant or waterproof materials, such as nylon or polyester. Reinforced zippers and sturdy stitching will also ensure longevity.
4. Style and Versatility
A travel backpack should be stylish enough for various occasions, from city sightseeing to nature hikes. Opt for a versatile design that can transition from casual day trips to more professional settings.
5. Security Features
When traveling, security is always a concern. Look for backpacks with anti-theft features, such as lockable zippers or RFID-protected compartments to keep your cards and personal information safe.
Top Picks for 2025: Best Travel Backpacks for Women
1. Osprey Fairview 40 Travel Backpack
The Osprey Fairview 40 is a favorite among female travelers for its sleek design, lightweight construction, and comfortable fit. With a 40L capacity, this backpack is perfect for short to medium-length trips. It features a spacious main compartment, as well as several zippered pockets for organized packing. The Fairview also includes a padded laptop sleeve and an adjustable harness system for a tailored fit.
- Pro: Lightweight, durable, and designed specifically for women’s comfort.
- Con: The 40L capacity may be too large for those who prefer a smaller daypack.
2. Nomatic Backpack
For those who love sleek, minimalist design with maximum functionality, the Nomatic Backpack is a top choice. Known for its innovative organization and modern aesthetic, this backpack boasts a variety of compartments for everything from tech gear to clothing. With its water-resistant fabric and high-quality zippers, the Nomatic Backpack is as durable as it is stylish.
- Pro: Excellent organization, perfect for tech-savvy travelers.
- Con: The design may be too minimalist for some, with fewer external pockets.
3. Tortuga Setout Backpack
The Tortuga Setout Backpack is designed for travelers who prefer to pack light and efficiently. With a 45L capacity, this backpack fits most overhead compartments and is designed to maximize packing space with its wide, suitcase-style opening. It also features a padded laptop compartment and several internal organization pockets, making it easy to keep everything in place.
- Pro: Spacious, organized, and fits under most airline seats.
- Con: Slightly larger, making it less ideal for minimalist packers.
4. Thule Subterra Backpack 34L
The Thule Subterra Backpack is an excellent option for those who need a backpack for both work and travel. With its sleek, professional appearance and 34L capacity, it easily fits a laptop, clothes, and accessories for a weekend trip. The durable, weather-resistant materials and padded compartments ensure your belongings stay safe and dry.
- Pro: Stylish, durable, and perfect for both work and weekend getaways.
- Con: Might be too small for long-term travelers or those with bulky items.
5. Patagonia Arbor Grande 32L Backpack
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, the Patagonia Arbor Grande 32L Backpack is a fantastic choice. Made from 100% recycled polyester fabric, this bag not only looks great but also supports sustainable fashion. The 32L capacity is perfect for a few days of travel, and the padded sleeve fits a laptop up to 15 inches.
- Pro: Eco-friendly materials, comfortable and spacious.
- Con: Not as durable in extreme weather conditions as some other bags.
6. Everki ContemPRO Laptop Backpack
The Everki ContemPRO Laptop Backpack is perfect for women who combine business with pleasure. This travel backpack offers a sleek, professional look with ample storage for your tech gear, clothing, and essentials. Its padded laptop compartment fits laptops up to 17.3 inches, while the spacious main compartment offers plenty of room for a few days’ worth of clothes.
- Pro: Great for business travelers who need to carry tech and personal items.
- Con: Slightly bulky for minimalist travelers.
7. Deuter Transit 50 Travel Backpack
For those looking for a larger option for longer trips, the Deuter Transit 50 is a top pick. This backpack provides 50L of capacity, allowing for extended travel while still remaining manageable. It features a front-loading design, allowing easy access to your gear. With adjustable shoulder straps, a padded hip belt, and durable material, the Transit 50 ensures comfort even when carrying heavier loads.
- Pro: Ideal for longer trips, offers great support and comfort.
- Con: Might be too large for those looking for a lighter, smaller pack.
8. Bellroy Classic Backpack
The Bellroy Classic Backpack is perfect for the minimalist traveler. Its clean lines and sleek design make it suitable for both business and leisure, while the interior offers organization without being bulky. The 22L capacity is ideal for light packers, and the use of eco-friendly leather and recycled fabric makes it both stylish and sustainable.
- Pro: Minimalist design, eco-friendly materials.
- Con: Not ideal for travelers who need to pack a lot of gear.
Conclusion
Choosing the right travel backpack depends on your unique travel needs, whether it’s a compact daypack or a spacious backpack for a longer trip. For 2025, these top picks represent the best in comfort, style, and functionality. Whether you prefer eco-friendly materials, sleek designs, or maximum storage capacity, there’s a perfect travel backpack out there for every woman. Happy travels!
