Based on my first European trip and the backpack that made all the difference, I have put together these 11 best travel backpacks for a European trip.
That was the summer of my aspirations. Just graduated and had a European travel ticket booked.
As the departure date neared, I started worrying about what on Earth I could squeeze my belongings into. After several hours of looking and a few poor purchases, I finally found the backpack to carry my stuff across Europe.
It was more than a simple bag; it was my dependable buddy, my lifeline in foreign streets, and my rescuer during unexpected rain.
This encounter helped me to see how much your travel bag may either spoil or improve your trip.
Considering this, I have compiled a list of the 11 best travel backpacks for Europe to enable you to avoid the trial and error I went through.
What Are The 11 Best Travel Backpacks For Europe?
Actually, choosing your travel bags for Europe is not a one-size-fits-all matter. Your interests, needs, and travel style will all assist in directing your bag selection.
These are the finest picks for European visits based on durability, comfort, storage, and general utility.
1. Osprey Farpoint 40
A traveler’s dream, the Osprey Farpoint 40 offers the ideal balance of comfort and durability. Its 40-liter volume is logical for those traveling light or short distances.
Though the bag’s structure is robust, it is still carry-on compliant, which is really helpful for avoiding those extra baggage fees on cheap European flights.
Key Features:
- Lockable zippers for extra security
- Apple sleeves specifically for tablets and computers
- For easy overhead compartment storage, stow removable rear panels.
- Hip belt for comfort and adjustable shoulder straps
2. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L:
Renowned for its exquisite look and sophisticated functions, this bag is ideal for the tech-savvy visitor. Digital nomads enjoy the bag; its thoughtful design lets you keep your stuff neat.
Key Features:
- Passport and cards in an RFID-safe pocket; waterproof zippers and materials
- Dedicated shoe compartment
- Integrated washing bag
3. Tortuga Setout
Designed for the urban wanderer, the Tortuga Setout skillfully combines the best elements of a suitcase and a backpack. Its graceful form makes it ideal for city travel, and its clamshell opening makes packing easy.
Key Features:
- Padded hip belts to distribute weight.
- many sections within the interior organization
- locked yKK zippers; laptop compartment supports up to 17″ gadgets.
4. Deuter Transit 50
The Deuter Transit 50 is a hybrid pack for travel and hiking. Its 50-liter capacity allows it to be compact enough to fit comfortably yet capacious enough for extended trips.
Key Features:
- Detachable daypack
- Added carry handles to be flexible.
- Aircontact front systems for respiratory assistance large front U-shaped access aperture in line with simplicity
5. Patagonia Black Hole 32L
If you want something more robust, the Patagonia Black Hole 32L is your option.
Made from exceptionally robust and weather-resistant materials, this backpack is ideal for outdoor activities throughout Europe and is built to endure the elements.
Key Features:
- Weather-resistant surroundings; Daisy chains applied in gear attachment
- Padded shoulder straps and a back panel; big main pocket including smaller organizing sections
6. Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L
The Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L is perfect for female travellers. It is designed to fit the feminine form and offers a sensible load, comfort, and ingenious storage choices.
Key Features:
- Hip belts and shaped shoulder straps
- Rainfly for environmental control; large twin chambers for sorting
- Compression straps help to reduce bulk.
7. Gregory Baltoro 65
Those looking for more items or longer trips may find the Gregory Baltoro 65 to be an excellent alternative. Its ergonomic design enables long use, even with maximum load. This backpack is ideal for backcountry visitors to Europe’s different terrains.
Key Features:
- Customizable hip belt to fit own style
- Many points of reference to the primary compartment weather-resistant materials
- Double as a daypack, hydration sleeves
8. Minaal Carry-on 2.0
The Minaal Carry-on 2.0 is meant for the modest visitor who values order and style. Ideal for European business travelers, this classy, professional-looking carry-on doubles.
Key Features:
- Complete zip opening
- Additional pockets on devices
- Along with the rain cover, there were tidy-looking Carry-away straps.
9. Kelty Redwing 44
Why Is It Great? The flexible Kelty Redwing 44 backpack accommodates several forms of travel. Even on lengthy exploratory days, its suspension system makes wearing comfortable. Though little, it is nonetheless really spacious.
Key Features:
- Hex mesh rear panel for aerodynamics
- Front pocket with minimal basic access
- Load-lifter straps for hybrid-loading U-zipper design help to counterweight
10. Pacsafe Venturesafe X40
The Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 is your best option if your main concern is security. Crucially in some of Europe’s most crowded areas, this bag uses anti-theft technology to protect your belongings against pickpockets and thieves.
Key Features:
- RFID blocking pocket
- Locked zippers and cut-resistant textiles
- eXomesh slash guard in secret
- Adjustable waist and breast straps define comfort.
11. Thule 40L, Landmark
Built and operationally sound, the Thule Landmark 40L is a well-rounded backpack. It’s perfect for the contemporary traveler seeking a strong, trustworthy pack without sacrificing flare.
Key Features:
- SafeZone region for sensitive things
- Stashed secret money in a pocket.
- Daypack that one can split apart
- Internal strays for compressing
How Can I Choose the Right Backpack for a European Trip?
The right backpack will help you have a wonderful and enjoyable trip. This thorough direction will help you to choose the appropriate line of action:
Step 1: Identify Your Travel Style
Are you a minimalist, or do you pack for every likely scenario? Consider your luggage’s regular carrying capacity.
Step 2: Think through the length of your trip.
A 30-40L pack will suffice for one to two week shorter excursions. For long distance travel, consider something between 50 and 65L.
Step 3: Examine your schedule.
Are you running on and off trains or staying in one place? For those staying put, a bigger, more robust option might be perfect; for regular movers, a lightweight, tiny backpack could be more suitable.
Step 4: Comfort comes first.
Ensure the backpack has padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a vented back panel especially if you’ll be wearing it for lengthy stretches.
Step 5: Search for longevity.
Particularly if you want to tour the wonderful outdoors of Europe, look for backpacks made of quality, weather-resistant materials.
Are There Any Specific Features to Look for in a European Travel Backpack?
Indeed, some features of a travel backpack for Europe might enable your journey to be rather more seamless:
Carry-On Compliance
If you are flying inside Europe, having a backpack appropriate for carry-on size restrictions will help you save luggage expenses and the stress of waiting at baggage carriers.
Security Features
Here are pickpocket hotspots in Europe’s bustling metropolises. Search for backpacks with hidden compartments, anti-theft technology, and locking zippers.
Organization
Many pockets and sections will help you to remain neat and quickly reach your necessities.
Comfort and Fit
Adjustable straps, padded shoulder areas, and a hip belt help to distribute weight uniformly and prevent soreness over long distances of travel.
Resistance of Weather
Europe has quite variable temperatures. If you have a backpack from water-resistant fabrics or built-in rain cover, your items will stay dry.
Flexibility
A backpack with a removable daypack or one that can be replaced with a duffel bag provides versatility for all sorts of activities.
What Size Backpack Is Ideal for Traveling in Europe?
The kind of your trip will decide the appropriate size of your bag; however, below are some general guidelines:
30-40L Backpacks
Ideal for weekend trips, simple packing, or short travel
Usually fulfilling carry-on size requirements, small weight, and easy carrying
40-50L Backpacks
Perfect for one to two-week trips or those looking for slightly more room without packing excessively
One benefits from often maintaining a suitable balance between capacity and mobility.
50-65L Backpacks
Longer trips, travelers requiring extra gear, or those planning a combination of indoor and outdoor pursuits best suit
Advantages
comprise Enough space for equipment, clothing, and souvenirs; more adaptability for many vacation schedules
Over 65L Backpacks
Perfect for long-distance travel, transporting specialized tools, or multi-season visits.
Maximum storage capacity is advantageous but typically too large for a carry-on and might be uncomfortable.
How Do I Pack Efficiently Using a Travel Backpack for Europe?
Good packing will enable you to travel with joy and free of stress. This advice enables you to maximize the capacity of your bag:
Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes help you organize stuff so they fit more readily into your luggage and compress clothing.
Organize Your Clothes
Rolling rather than folding clothes helps to conserve space and minimize wrinkles.
Prioritize Essentials
Take exactly what you will actually need. A well-organized capsule wardrobe might enable you to carry less of the clothing you must have.
Use All Pockets
Use the numerous compartments and sections of your backpack to keep things like travel documents, devices, and toiletries handy.
Wear Bulky objects
If at all possible, wear your heavier items—such as jackets and boots—during travel to maximize capacity in your bag.
Reduce Personal Hygiene Products
Pick travel-sized toiletries or purchase what you need upon arrival to help light your load.
What Are Some Tips for Maintaining and Securing My Backpack While Traveling in Europe?
A hassle-free vacation depends on your bag being in great shape and safe. Here are some rules:
Invest in a Good Lock
Use a TSA-approved lock to deter would-be thieves from your backpack. Securing your backpack helps to prevent theft, even if you are only temporarily gone.
Use a Rain Cover
Guard your belongings against unplanned storms with a durable rain cover. While some backpacks have one built-in, you may also purchase one separately.
Be Mindful of Where You Place Your Backpack
Keep your luggage visible in busy areas like cafés or public transit to avoid leaving it unattended.
Keep Valuables Close
Store your most precious items—including your phone, wallet, and passport—in secure, easily reaching pockets or a money belt worn under your clothing.
Check Your Backpack Frequently
Look for any wear and tear, especially on zippers and seams. Little concerns taken care of before they become major ones will help your luggage last.
Clean It After Your Trip
After your travels, follow manufacturer directions on cleaning your bag. This will assist to avoid wear and odors, thereby preserving it in outstanding form for your future trip.
Final Thought
Choosing the correct bag for your European trip is a purchase of security, comfort, and ease. Whether your journey is wandering about Paris, mountain climbing in the Swiss Alps, or managing the crowded streets of Rome, the right luggage will make all the difference.
One of these 11 best travel backpacks for Europe choices on your back will help you to travel one city at a time throughout Europe. Safe travels.
