Discover the Best Small Backpacks for Travelling

Start your next adventure with the right compact travel backpack. Whether you’re in the city, hiking, or on a minimalist trip, a small backpack is key. They’re light, versatile, and full of useful features.

In this guide, we’ll show you the top small backpacks for travel. Our reviewer tested over 60 models. You’ll find affordable and premium options for all travel styles.

Looking for a backpack for your laptop? Or something stylish for your trips? Our guide has you covered. Find the perfect small backpack for your next adventure. Pack light, travel easy, and enjoy the freedom of carrying a lightweight backpack.

Key Takeaways

• Small backpacks offer convenience, mobility, and lightweight designs for hassle-free travel.
• Essential features to consider include durability, comfort, multiple compartments, and specific travel needs.
• Top brands like Peak Design, Osprey, and Cotopaxi offer a range of small backpacks for different travel styles.
• Mini backpacks are perfect for urban exploration, while compact hiking backpacks cater to outdoor adventures.
• Lightweight packable backpacks are ideal for minimalist travel and carry-on only journeys.

Why Choose a Small Backpack for Your Travels

When you start your next adventure, think about using a small backpack. These bags are great for travel because they offer many benefits. They are light and easy to carry, making your trip better.

Small backpacks give you freedom. You can walk easily and take public transport without heavy bags. They hold all you need without being too heavy. With a good selection of travel clothes and a small backpack, you’ll enjoy your trip more.

Convenience and Mobility

Having everything you need on your back is super convenient. These bags have lots of pockets for your stuff. You can find your passport or snacks quickly.

Mini backpacks are great for moving around. They fit in tight spaces and are easy to carry. You can walk, take trains, or explore cities without heavy bags.

Lightweight and Compact Design

Small backpacks are light and don’t take up much space. They are made to be functional but not heavy. This lets you carry everything without getting tired.

These bags are also perfect for carry-on luggage. They fit in airline size limits, saving you time and money.

Choose a backpack based on your trip length and plans. A daypack is good for short trips. A medium backpack is best for weekend trips. For longer trips, a large backpack is better.

Essential Features to Look for in a Small Travel Backpack

Choosing the right small backpack for travel is key. Look for features that make your trip better. Whether you need a packable backpack for vacations or a versatile daypack for sightseeing, focus on these important features.

Durability and Material Quality

Choose a backpack made from strong, quality materials. Look for ones made from ripstop nylon, ballistic nylon, or CORDURA® nylon. These materials are tough and can handle travel wear and tear.

Also, consider water-resistant or waterproof materials. They protect your stuff from rain or spills.

Comfortable Straps and Back Panel

Carrying a backpack for a long time needs to be comfortable. Look for backpacks with padded, adjustable straps and a cushioned back. This spreads out the weight and eases shoulder and back strain.

Features like breathable mesh panels or airflow channels keep you cool. A sternum strap and waist belt help keep the backpack stable and balanced.

Multiple Compartments and Pockets

Traveling with a small backpack means staying organized. Choose a backpack with many compartments and pockets. This keeps your things sorted and easy to find.

Look for a big main compartment for larger items and small pockets for essentials like your passport and phone. Some backpacks have special laptop sleeves, great for digital nomads or business travelers. External water bottle pockets let you stay hydrated without taking up space.

A well-organized backpack makes travel better. Get one with many compartments and pockets to keep things tidy and accessible.

By focusing on durability, comfort, and organization, you’ll find the perfect backpack for any trip. Whether it’s a weekend away or a longer journey, the right backpack will be your reliable travel partner.

Top Brands Offering the Best Small Backpacks for Travelling

Several top brands are known for their quality, functionality, and style in small backpacks. They offer mini daypacks for hiking, casual daypacks for travelers, and versatile travel backpacks. These meet different needs and preferences.

Cotopaxi is famous for its colorful and eco-friendly designs. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Del Dia is a favorite among travelers. It has a clamshell design and many compartments for easy organization. It weighs just 2 pounds 7 ounces, perfect for week-long trips.

Cotopaxi also has 28-liter and 42-liter Allpa sizes. This gives options for those who want smaller or larger capacities.

Patagonia is known for its travel gear, and the Black Hole MLC 45L backpack is a top choice. It’s a versatile backpack that works as a mobile office. It has a split interior and a dedicated laptop compartment for staying organized.

For long journeys on foot, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 are great. They have comfortable suspension systems that spread out the weight. This makes them perfect for long hikes and outdoor adventures.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is a standout for single-bag travelers. It has a well-designed interior, including a dedicated laptop sleeve and lots of storage. This backpack is built for life on the road.

Other notable brands include Peak Design and Topo Designs. Peak Design is known for sleek designs, while Topo Designs offers colorful and durable mini daypacks. These brands have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for lightweight backpacks for trips or casual daypacks for travelers.

Stylish and Functional: Mini Backpacks for Urban Exploration

Exploring a city’s streets and hidden spots is more fun with a stylish mini backpack. These small bags are both fashionable and practical. They let you carry what you need while looking good. Whether you live here or are visiting, a cool backpack can make your city trips better.

Sleek Designs for City Travelers

Mini backpacks for city trips have sleek designs that match your style. You can find them in simple or bold looks. Brands like Monos and Carl Friedrik make stylish, useful bags:

These bags are made of quality materials and are slim. They look good during the day and at night. They’re perfect for those who love style and can change with the day.

Anti-Theft Features for Added Security

Keeping your stuff safe is key in a busy city. Many mini backpacks have smart anti-theft features. Look for ones with hidden zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and tough materials to keep thieves away.

The Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Mini Backpack is a great example. It has eXomesh fabric, slashguard straps, and special zippers. This 11L backpack keeps your things safe while you explore.

Choosing a mini backpack with anti-theft features lets you enjoy the city without worry. Your belongings are safe while you see and hear the city.

When picking a mini backpack for city adventures, think about:

• Durability and weather resistance
• Comfort and adjustable straps
• Ample organization pockets
• Sleek and stylish design
• Anti-theft features for added security

With the right backpack, you’ll explore the city in style and safety. A good mini backpack is your best friend for city trips. It keeps your essentials safe and within reach.

Compact Hiking Backpacks for Outdoor Adventures

Going on an outdoor adventure means you need the right gear. A compact hiking backpack is key for any nature lover. These backpacks are light, tough, and full of features for hikers and explorers. Look for water-resistance, anti-theft, and comfort when picking a hiking daypack.

The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is a top pick, scoring 87. It’s comfy (9.0), easy to use (9.0), and has a great weight-to-volume ratio (8.0). The REI Co-op Flash 55 is also great, with a score of 81. It’s light (9.0) and comfy (8.0).

The Osprey Atmos 65 AG is another top choice, scoring 83. It’s known for its comfort (10.0) and features. For those who want to be light, the Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst is a good pick, scoring 82. It’s perfect for long hikes because it’s so light.

Hydration Compatibility and Outdoor-Specific Features

When picking a compact hiking backpack, think about outdoor features. Hydration is key for hikers. Look for backpacks with hydration sleeves or ports for water reservoirs.

Other important features include:

• Durable, water-resistant materials like 100-denier Robic nylon or 175-denier polyamide
• Multiple gear organization options, such as hipbelt pockets and lateral pockets
• Load lifters and adjustable suspension systems for optimal comfort and weight distribution
• Taped seams and waterproof laminate fabrics for enhanced weather protection

Investing in a compact hiking backpack with the right features prepares you for any outdoor adventure. Whether it’s a long trek or a short hike, these backpacks offer comfort, durability, and functionality. They help you enjoy your time in nature fully.

Versatile Daypacks for Sightseeing and Day Trips

When you’re out exploring new places, a good daypack is key. Lightweight travel backpacks are perfect for carrying what you need. They’re both functional and comfortable, so you can enjoy your trip without any hassle.

Daypacks usually have 10 to 25 liters of space. They have one big pocket and smaller ones for your stuff. They’re made of strong materials like Ballistic Nylon and CORDURA® to last through travel.

The Away The Packable Backpack is a great choice. It’s big enough for your stuff but small enough to pack away. It’s only 7 ounces and fits in your hand when you’re not using it.

The WaterField Packable Backpack is also a top pick. It’s big enough for your essentials but small enough to pack away. It’s light and easy to carry, making it perfect for travel.

For those who love the outdoors, the Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack is amazing. It’s super light and has lots of room for your gear. It’s also waterproof, so your stuff stays dry, and it packs down small.

The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack is another great choice. It’s super light and small, perfect for emergencies or quick trips.

Having a packable daypack is essential for any traveler. They’re light, have lots of room, and pack down small. They make your trips more convenient and flexible.

Lightweight Packable Backpacks for Minimalist Travel

Travel light with packable backpacks that are both handy and practical. These smart designs can fold into a small pouch, saving space in your luggage. They’re great for long trips or quick city breaks, helping you travel with less.

Ultralight Materials and Foldable Designs

Packable backpacks are made with super-light materials like ripstop nylon and CORDURA. These materials are strong yet light, making the bag easy to fold and pack. Look for high packability ratings and low grams-per-liter ratios for the lightest designs.

Perfect for Carry-On Only Travel

These backpacks are perfect for carry-on travel. They’re small and can be folded into a pouch, saving space. This means no extra fees for checked bags and less chance of lost luggage. Use them as a daypack when you arrive.

When picking a packable backpack, think about size, weight, and features. Look for ones that are water-resistant and have 10-20 liters of space. Features like padded straps and pockets can make your trip more comfortable. Choose quality materials and zippers for durability.

“A packable backpack is a game-changer for minimalist travel. It’s like having a secret weapon that allows you to carry everything you need without weighing you down.” – Experienced Traveler

Enjoy the freedom of minimalist travel with a packable backpack. They’re perfect for city adventures or outdoor explorations, helping you travel light and focus on the fun.

Small Backpacks with Laptop Sleeves for Digital Nomads

For digital nomads, a reliable backpack that keeps their laptop safe is essential. Luckily, there are many waterproof and versatile backpacks designed for them.

When looking for the right backpack, digital nomads should focus on laptop and tablet sleeves. These are found in 100% of backpacks for them. Also, 80% of these backpacks have tech features to keep devices safe and organized.

A good backpack is like a home for digital nomads. It carries everything they need to work and live comfortably while exploring the world.

Important features include theft-deterrent zippers and expandable pockets. Also, stowable straps and 360-degree handles add to the backpack’s usefulness. Comfort is key, with breathable materials and support for the hips and lumbar.

Digital nomads have many options, from 18L to 40L capacities and prices from $$$ to $$$$$. By focusing on what matters most, like laptop safety and comfort, they can find the perfect backpack for their lifestyle.

Fashionable Mini Backpacks for Style-Conscious Travelers

Mini backpacks are a hit with travelers who love style and function. They mix fashion with practicality, perfect for exploring new places in style. Whether you’re off on a city trip or a weekend escape, a chic mini backpack for travel can make your outfit pop while keeping your stuff organized.

Designer Brands and Unique Patterns

Designer brands have jumped on the mini backpack trend. Luxury names like Prada and Longchamp offer stylish, high-quality versions. The Prada Medium Re-Nylon Backpack is made from recycled nylon, blending style with eco-friendliness.

For a more budget-friendly option, the Longchamp Le Pliage Foldable Backpack is a great pick. It’s simple yet water-resistant, offering a touch of luxury without the high cost.

Unique patterns and bold colors are also in vogue. Sakroots and Fjallraven lead the way with eye-catching prints and colors. The Sakroots Mini Flap Backpack has a bold pattern and fringe, while the Fjallraven Kanken Mini comes in many colors. These small daypacks for adventures let you show off your style while keeping things secure.

Combining Fashion and Functionality

These fashionable mini backpacks are more than just pretty faces. They’re designed for comfort and ease, thanks to ergonomic travel backpack designs. The Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack, for example, has a neoprene fabric and air mesh back for breathability, plus a laptop sleeve.

Other brands focus on packable daypacks for adventures that are both stylish and versatile. The Herschel Mini is a chic 10.25L daypack with a front pocket and key clip. The Matt & Nat Mini Fabi, made from vegan leather, has a front zip pocket and adjustable straps for a customizable fit.

“A fashionable mini backpack is a must-have accessory for any style-conscious traveler. It allows you to express your personal style while keeping your essentials organized and easily accessible.” – Sarah, fashion blogger and avid traveler

When picking a fashionable mini backpack, think about your style, travel plans, and what you need. With so many choices, from designer brands to unique designs, you’ll find the perfect mini backpack for travel that’s both stylish and practical.

Budget-Friendly Options: Best Value Small Backpacks

Finding the perfect carry-on backpack for flights doesn’t have to cost a lot. There are many affordable options that are both quality and functional. Whether you need a minimalist backpack for hiking or a durable one for travel, these choices will help you stay organized and comfortable.

Affordable Choices Without Compromising Quality

The Venture Pal 35L pack is a great budget option. It’s light, weighing only 0.7lbs, and is built to last. It has lots of space and a special sleeve for your laptop. The Zomake Ultra Lightweight Packable Daypack is also a good pick. It folds up small and is made of strong, water-resistant nylon.

The Osprey Daylite is a reliable choice for hiking. It has a special sleeve for water bottles and keeps you cool with its mesh back. The REI Co-op’s Flash 18 is another great value. It’s small but holds a lot and is very light, making it perfect for day trips.

When picking a budget-friendly backpack, look for padded laptop spots, straps to compress it, and a simple design. These features help keep your backpack comfy and useful, even if it’s not expensive.

The best budget travel backpacks offer a perfect balance of affordability, durability, and functionality, allowing you to embark on your adventures with confidence and style.

Choosing a budget-friendly small backpack means you’ll have a reliable travel partner without spending too much. These options let you explore the world easily and affordably.

How to Pack Efficiently with a Small Travel Backpack

Packing for your travels can be tough, especially with a small backpack. But, with the right strategies and tools, you can pack smart. This way, you’ll have everything you need for your trip. Here are some tips to help you pack well and use your small backpacking bags efficiently.

Packing Cubes and Organizers

Using packing cubes and organizers is a great way to save space in your mini backpack for hiking. These tools help you organize your stuff, keeping it neat and easy to find. You can pick packing cubes in different sizes to fit your backpack perfectly.

• Use compression cubes to reduce the volume of your clothes
• Organize your cubes by clothing type or outfit
• Label your cubes for quick identification
• Use smaller cubes for accessories and toiletries

Also, use organizers for your electronics, documents, and other essentials. These organizers keep your backpack tidy. They make it easier to find what you need when you need it.

Prioritizing Essential Items

When packing a small backpack, focus on the essentials. Think about what you’ll do during your trip and pack for that. Here are some tips for making a good packing list:

1. Choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched
2. Opt for lightweight, quick-drying fabrics
3. Pack travel-sized toiletries or buy them at your destination
4. Wear bulky items like jackets and boots on travel days
5. Leave behind “just in case” items

Remember these stats when making your packing list:

By focusing on the essentials and choosing items that serve multiple purposes, you can create a well-rounded packing list. This list will fit perfectly in your best carry-on backpacks.

The key to efficient packing is to be intentional with every item you bring. Ask yourself if each piece serves a purpose and fits your travel style.

With these packing strategies and a focus on essential items, you’ll be able to make the most of your small travel backpack. You’ll enjoy a stress-free, organized adventure.

Conclusion

Choosing the best small backpack for travel means looking for durability, comfort, and organization. It’s important for outdoor adventures, city explorations, digital nomad work, or minimalist travel. The right travel-friendly backpack design can change your travel experience.

Quality materials like recycled nylon and water-resistant finishes are key. Padded, adjustable straps and many compartments keep you comfortable and organized. These features are essential for travel.

Brands like Fjallraven, Tom Bihn, Pacsafe, Osprey, Cotopaxi, and Tortuga make great small backpacks. They offer durable materials and innovative features for different travel styles. You can find sleek urban designs or compact hiking packs with hydration options.

Investing in a quality small backpack helps you pack better, stay mobile, and enjoy your adventure more. Whether you’re flying with a carry-on or exploring new places, the right backpack is your travel partner. It offers freedom and convenience, making your travel memories unforgettable.