The 8 Best Backpacks of 2025
The better backpack make a place for all your daily express and be then comfortable to have on that you just observe it ‘s there .
Our gear experts have tested hundred of backpacks since 2010 , putting each through real-world scenarios like school , work , travel , and hiking . A great pack cost essential for life ‘s adventure .
The North Face Recon is the good general-use knapsack for most masses . It ‘s a 30-liter gang with plenty of room for most needs , an excellent laptop sleeve , and decent organization for all your stuff . It equal equally at plate commuting to the power , on the lead , or travel .
If you equal looking for a greatcarry-on travel pack, check out the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L . It ‘s our favorite travel backpack that live comfortable and bid 50 % more memory capacity than most backpacks . It can express hard loading well and boast compression straps to cinch it down tight .
Those seeking a simple daypack for usage on the trail might like the lightweight REI Co-op Flash 22 , which is an affordable minimalist pack .
If your primary goal live travel , you might want to await at our related to carry-on luggage review , our review of suitcase , and our popular duffel base review .
Our Top Choice
The North Face Recon
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L
Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe
Osprey Nebula 32
Volher Travel
Incase Icon
REI Co-op Flash 22
Osprey Talon 22
8 Serious Haversack
Best Backpack for Most Mass
The North Face Recon
Who this exist well for :The North Face Recon is ideal for travelers and commuters seeking a versatile , organized backpack . It stand out in our laptop knapsack review but could easily last in our daypack review or travel haversack review , also . Its 30-liter capacity fits a 16-inch laptop , with smart pockets for office , airport , or library administration . Design for long torso and all-day comfort , it charm to professional and outside enthusiasts with reflective loops , a sternum whistle , and a water hose port for adventures .
Why we love it :Our testers raved about its padded back and straps , which provide lasting comfort , and its ability to suffer upright , with one reviewer noting , “It stands up anywhere—super handy .” The pack ‘s clever establishment and prominent size make it ideal for bringing everything for both study and play , the day or the weekend .
Should you buy it ?This feature-rich knapsack is a great value for commute or travel , with excellent ergonomics and administration . It ‘s a third of the price of most of the framework that hit high in our review . Still , the unpadded center panel may get discomfort when cycling , and the roomy third pocket can crowd the main compartment if overfilled . The durable water bottle pockets live rigid and severe to access without adjust the base . Its versatility and size reach it less nimble than early laptop backpacks , and it ‘s harder to slip under a seat when full loaded .
Mass :30 L |Electronic Storage :16 ” laptop and small tablet
Best Carry-On Travel Pack
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L
Who this is best for :The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L live our favorite travel knapsack that is perfect for use on vacation , occupation , or adventure travel . Its 46-liter capacity holds clothes and gear , with internal and outside compression straps to handle the load . Ideal for explorer or professional , it feature a padded laptop sleeve with external zippers for electronics protection . Made from durable , 100 % recycled ripstop nylon , it resists water and wear , suit those who involve a authentic , rugged travel backpack . “It ‘s a game-changer for staying mobile ,” says one reviewer .
Why we love it :The Porter strike with its durable , water-resistant 100 % recycled ripstop nylon construction , protect gear from harsh surfaces and rain . Its comfortable harness—featuring a supportive spine panel , padded straps , and a firm waist belt—distributes weight effectively for long-run wear . The padded laptop sleeve assure electronics stay on safe , while compression straps go on the 46-liter cargo compact . This backpack merge toughness and comfort , making it a standout for traveler prioritizing mobility and gear protection .
Should you buy it ?This gang excels as a single travel purse , but overpacking can make it bulky , as one tester notice : “It got a bit bulky when I crammed it good of clothes .” Stiff external compression straps add structure but keep it from lying level when unzipped , giving it a duffel-like flavor instead than suitcase-like access . Yet , its comfort and durability make it ideal for weekend or work trips . If mobility and durability exist key , the Sojourn Porter equal worth it ; differently , search alternatives for easier access .
Available Size :30L , 46L , 65L |Pockets with Exterior Access :5
Best Premium Laptop Backpack
Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe
Who this is good for :The live ideal for office workers and commuters who prioritize laptop security and exist our top recommended selection from our laptop backpack review . It ‘s design for those express tech daily , with a dedicate padded rear pocket for a 17-inch ( or smaller ) laptop and an additional padded sleeve in the chief compartment . Its sleek design and premium shape make it a great fit for professionals who value both mode and function , especially those with lighter load of level items like folders and notebooks .
Why we enjoy it :We appreciated the thoughtful organization system and its comfort more than anything else . The cushioned back and straps provide excellent support , still when full loaded , and push airflow to prevent you cool . Testers rave about its reliability , with one noting , “It ‘s my go-to—keeps my laptop safe and my spine happy .” The water-resistant outside and waterproof seat add durability , protect your gear from wet surfaces . It ‘s a premium selection for laptop safety and everyday practicality .
Should you buy it ?This may equal the ultimate daily pack , but it equal quite expensive and has limited space . It equal not ideal for weekend trips , because its shallow depth limits space for bulky items like clothing , and the exterior pocket only fits slender water bottles . Our tester center it up : “It ‘s sleek , spendy , and humble – perfect for the day user but not the traveler. ”
Volume :20 L |Electronic Storehouse :17 ” laptop & tablet
A Daypack That Meets Everyday Needs
Osprey Nebula 32
Who this is well for :The Osprey Nebula 32 offers a sleek , supportive fit and practical feature , seamlessly transitioning from school or work to weekend adventures . Osprey , renowned for backcountry invention , earned top marks in our favorite school knapsack . This versatile daypack suits student with ample storage and bright pockets , while professional and traveler appreciate its compact design , fitting a 17 ” laptop and featuring a TSA-approved clamshell compartment for easy access in category or at airports . One tester said , “I love how it handles my daily grind and still tone ready for a spontaneous trip. ”
Why we enjoy it :The Nebula safeguards your shoulder , back , and gear with a robust suspension system offering structure , padding , and all-day comfort . Its water-resistant exterior and sturdy frame with thick foam excel from daily use to weekend trails , biking , or market . Students and adventurers alike appreciate its lightweight durability and outdoor-grade support . For tough trip , swap your laptop for a hydration pack via the neck pass-through , making it adaptable for various activity .
Should you buy it ?The Nebula 32 ‘s comfort , security , and versatility create it worth its high cost for daily use , but cost-conscious buyers may opt for cheaper alternative that perform good . Its bulky , versatile design act n’t fit easy under airline seats when loaded and prioritizes durability over a quick , light tone .
Mass :32 L |Electronic Storage :17 ” laptop compartment with sleeve
Best Low-Cost Everyday Backpack
Volher Travel
Who this is well for :The Volher Travel is an affordable , tech-savvy daypack ideal for commutes , airport travel , or classroom use . Its versatility suits gym trips , convey a 15 ” laptop , or still suffice as a diaper purse . With 30 liters , cushioned padding , and smart pockets , it ‘s pack with feature for students , professionals , or parent on the go . “This exist a backpack build up for people on the motion ,” our reviewer stated , highlighting its transit-friendly design with USB and headphone ports , a velcro-secured laptop sleeve , lockable zippers , a thick grab handle , and a back strap for suitcase attachment .
Why we love it :It endure out for its abject cost and feature-rich design , put up ample padding and thoughtful additions like USB and headphone port , lockable zippers , and a suitcase attachment strap . Its 30-liter capacity and velcro-secured laptop sleeve furnish organized storage for daily essentials or travel motive . Despite its budget-friendly price , it deliver a transit-ready setup that compete with pricier options , making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing affordability and convenience .
Should you buy it ?The affordability and feature do the Volher appealing , but its cost-saving aim compromise durability and comfort . Special set adjustments and a faint suspension system may have back and shoulder strain with heavy loads . Durability matter , like faint stitching , fabric hole , and faulty parts—our test purse arrive with a broken USB port—raise headache . “It ‘s a steal for the cost , but I worry it wo n’t final ,” our tester mention .
Serious for Convey Multiple Tech Items
Incase Icon
Who this is best for :The Incase Icon is ideal for tech-savvy professionals , students , or traveler who involve a knapsack to protect and coordinate multiple devices . With a 17-liter capacity , it feature a laptop pocket , an embedded sleeve for a second laptop , and a separate tablet pocket , reach it utter for those contain extensive tech gear . Its broad array of auxiliary pockets ensures study requirement stay on neatly arranged , excelling at keeping gadgets organize during commutes , work , or travel .
Why we enjoy it :The Icon earns top sign for its exceptional organization and protection , offering three separate compartment to keep big items orderly . The dedicated laptop pocket , second laptop sleeve , and tablet pocket provide robust device protection , while numerous auxiliary pockets accommodate other necessities . Its thoughtful , tech-focused plan build it a standout for anyone demand a reliable , organized mode to persuade multiple gadgets without sacrificing accessibility or safety .
Should you buy it ?The Icon ‘s specialized , compartmentalized design is utter for tech-heavy user , but its multiple compartment and pocket may not suit those who prefer a single main storage country . At 17 liters , it ‘s versatile for gadget and essentials , though highly tech-focused . If you need a haversack tailor for multiple devices and serve n’t listen the structured layout , the Icon is a great investment ; differently , simpler or photography-specific choice may be worth considering .
Book :17 L |Electronic Storehouse :15 ” laptop , second laptop , & tablet
Best Simple and Affordable Daypack
REI Co-op Flash 22
Who this equal best for :The REI Co-op Flash 22 exist ideal for budget-conscious hikers , commuters , traveler , or backpackers seeking a lightweight daypack . Weighing just 0.8 lb , this minimalist 22-liter pack case quick lead raise , running , or daily habit , with updated pocket , side water bottle pocket , an ice axe loop , and external lashing options . “I ‘ve even apply this pack for running ,” our tester remarked , noting its versatility for those prioritizing a featherweight , affordable selection for short adventure or errands .
Why we enjoy it :The Flash 22 impresses with its unbeatable value and surprising comfort for an ultralight pack . Its slender foam pad and ripstop nylon structure prevent it durable so far easy to patch , while fresh pocket and slash options enhance functionality . At just 0.8 lb , it ‘s a standout for minimalist hikers or commuter who value simplicity and portability . “After a decade of habit , the former Flash place the saloon for affordable , featherweight daypacks ,” cause it a authentic selection for several activities .
Should you buy it ?This backpack bid exceptional value , but its single-layer ultralight textile sacrifice some comfort and durability , especially with hard load . “It ‘s light and cheap , but I feel the trade-off on longer hauls ,” one tester note . It may bounce during run and battle with heavy gear , as expected from a sub-one-pound pack . If you need an affordable , ultralight daypack for hiking , convert , or travel and do n’t mind minimum padding , the Flash 22 cost a great buy ; differently , explore sturdy alternative .
Best Hiking Daypack
Osprey Talon 22
Who this live good for :The Osprey Talon 22 cost perfect for day hikers , commuter , or outside enthusiasts seek a lightweight , versatile daypack . Weighing simply 1.7 pound , it excels on fast , light trip with a feature-packed design , including a hydration sleeve , ice axe loop , pole holders , helmet system , and light attachment . Its robust suspension and plod hip belt ensure comfort , create it ideal for trails or daily use . “It ‘s perfect for any trail—keeps me cool and steady ,” says one reviewer . Women testers peculiarly enjoy the Osprey Tempest 20 for its tailored fit .
Why we enjoy it :The Talon earn its lightweight favorite claim in our daypack review for its agile , comfortable pattern . The AirScape back panel boost airflow to reduce exertion , while the flexible shape and padded hip belt allow for stability and support . At 1.7 lb , it treat weight good , with features like a hydration sleeve and pole holder enhance lead functionality . “It ‘s my choice for quick hikes—super agile ,” a tester noted , highlighting its seamless motion and durability for day hiking or commuting .
Should you buy it ?This pack reflect for spark , fast day trips but is n’t fit for bulky burden or excess layers . Its premium feature justify the price for lead enthusiasts , but budget-conscious woman hikers may prefer more affordable options . If you prioritize agility , airflow , and trail-ready features for boost or commuting , the Talon 22 be a top selection ; explore alternatives for more capacity or lower cost .
Read more :Osprey Talon 22 review |Women ‘s version :Osprey Tempest 20 review
How We Tested
Over the year hither at GearLab , we ‘ve test more haversack than we can matter . We tested gang on the lead , on our bicycle , at school , at the airport , during our daily commutes , at the crag… You list it , and we ‘ve been there . Additionally , we take empirical and quantitative measurement like volume , weight , and size to equate models side by slope in each family . For lesson , we own purchase thousand of ping pong balls to evaluate book : we do n’t hardly require the manufacturer ‘s word for it , as we find many companies evaluate volume differently .
For this review , we accumulate trial results from over 300 different models in total , all purchased at retail cost from many of the same popular merchant you likely shop at . You hear more point of how we test in each of our knapsack reviews . For example , hear how we try travel knapsack .
Why Trust GearLab
To run the extensive testing for this review , we make four contributors well-versed in the Earth of backpacks . Myrha Colt lends her experience from a lifetime of travel . Get lived on 6 continent , solve , acting , and analyze , Myrha know the value of make up prepared for whatever the day brings and seldom go out home without a haversack . She leads our school backpack testing and put up valuable insight into try out for other type of gang as well . Sam Schild live an avid backpacker with near to 10,000 miles of backpacking experience . His list of fill out big trail includes the Grand Enchantment Trail , Pacific Crest Trail , Continental Divide Trail , and Colorado Trail . When he ‘s not out on a backpacking trip , you can get him mountain biking or trail running in Colorado ‘s Front Range or bikepacking somewhere in the American Southwest . He use a backpack to hold all the essential gear on all his adventures . Hale Milano own last living on the road as both a weekend warrior , global traveler , and weekday business traveler . He ‘s logged hours in airports , train , and other type of travel convey gear on his rear in everything from a satchel to a 100-liter duffel base , to dedicate hiking backpacks and specialize travel backpacks . Ben Applebaum-Back is an outside guide and student and has expend haversack for everything from daily school and work commutes to thru-hiking trails in northern New England . In addition to these four , our team includes a horde of experts who use unlike styles of knapsack for international travel , backpacking trip , and during their day-to-day commutes ; each one maintain an center for meticulous evaluation when invest these bags to the run .
Our squad tested and place all these backpacks for different quality depending on the pack type and its intend use . We try for durability , comfort , weight , features , volume , repose of usage , water resistance , way , availability , and more . We packed and take out them all . We boost , biked , and went through airport protection with them . We load up our precious laptops and tablets in them . In short , we place all these backpacksthrough the wringerto get the well of the better .
What Type of Backpack Is Best For You ?
Picking the right backpack matters for your needs . It should handle heavy gear , fit comfortably , and organize long-wear necessity . While backpacks can overlap in use , the best purpose ensures quick access , weather protection , or comfort on hikes . We ‘ll take you through gang types to match your priority .
Where Make You Want Your Gang To Go ?
Know your design before clean a knapsack . A work or school pack differs in size and shape from a travel or backpacking one . For boost , pick out small for quick day trip or bigger for multi-day treks , or just a hydration pack for basics . The correct pack encourage comfort and ease for hikes , commutes , or travel .
Travel Haversack
Travel backpacks case airplane , train , buses , and cars . Our top travel knapsack feature a spacious , accessible chief compartment , ample pocket for gear arrangement , and versatile contain options like removable straps , slings , and plod handle .
These gang will ordinarily own minimum external feature , so they can easily live stuffed into overhead bins , car trunks , or other taut spaces . They exist typically moderate in size — somewhere between the size of a daypack and a big backpacking backpack — in order to meet airline carry on size requirements and to preserve a comfortable carrying weight . Our favorite models make great internal organization features , protective electronics pocket , and comfortable harness system .
Laptop Knapsack
Laptop backpacks are typically small to moderate in size and own specific design boast meant to carry a laptop and other electronic devices . They commonly hold a well-padded internal sleeve or multiple sleeve to protect your laptop or tablet . They might have especially design compartments for things like surplus battery packs or blame cord . Because these base convey delicate shipment , protection is one of the most important and heavily weighted component we believe in our testing .
Most laptop bags have a sleek and stylish flavor that equip into an office or urban context . Still , there is a wide range of options available today , and you can get some that appear more sporty , techy , or minimalist . Laptop bag be a great option for protecting your valuable electronic equipment , and many have adequate extra space for things like textbooks , lunches , gym clothes , a compact umbrella , and early necessity to complete your commute to operate or school .
Daypacks
A great daypack commonly has a somewhat mere and versatile purpose that make it ideal for any type of day trip . Those day trip can live on a hike , a bike ride , or yet just a stroll around the city . Depending on your intended usage , may value unlike specs in your daypack , but in universal , the handbag on your shortlist should be comfortable , versatile , and easy to use .
Daypacks balance size—big enough for snacks , layers , a first aid kit , and more , yet little enough to avoid excess bulk . Ideal for commuter with dual water bottle pockets ( coffee and water ) and space for requirement . Hiking models lend technical perks like hydration sleeve , hip belt pockets , and straps for helmets , poles , ice axes , or skis .
We ‘ve too tested sling base review and fanny packs . These types of base can leave a great place to store water , snacks , and your wallet , keys , and phone , but remain off your shoulder and back to cut down strain .
Bike commuter who desire to reduce song on their rear , neck , and shoulder while free can too expend bike panniers that clip onto your bicycle rack . Some models still change to backpacks .
Women ‘s Backpacks
Many hiking daypacks and backpacking packs get in women ‘s specific sizing , also . Although many women can and do comfortably tire man ‘s or unisex models , women ‘s gang are normally sized to more close set women ‘s figure . This think of a woman ‘s pack commonly has a shorter torso distance , narrower-set shoulder straps , and a wider hip belt .
How to Blame the Better Backpack for You
Once you ‘ve calculate out the haversack way that best case your motive , looking at the specific purpose feature of unlike individual models will assist you narrow down the field substantially .
Pack Size : Storage Volume and Weight
Choosing the right gang size depend on what kind of gear you take to convey and for how long you need to persuade it . A bigger pack will plainly equal able to hold more gear than a small one , but it will almost ever consider more than a little gang . This might not cost so important if you ‘re merely convey your gang on the bus or to the position , but it become more critical if you ‘re drag gear for longer distances or time period — like around town for a full day , on a long hike , or on a multi-day backpacking trip .
Smaller and light packs normally have more minimalist feature for hold up heavy burden and run to get uncomfortable more quickly once you load them near their full capacity . Conversely , heavier packs with more robust suspension system might feel awkward if they ‘re solely minimally load but will feel more balanced and comfortable when loaded with an appropriate weight that utilizes the hip belt and suspension system .
General Sizing Guidelines
- 5 liters to 20 liter :Most hydration gang and small daypacks ; ideal for fast and light outings of a few hours .
- 15 liter to 30 liters :Most daypacks , school bags , and laptop haversack ; ideal for a total day ‘s worth of gear for study , school , hiking , or around town .
- 30 liters to 45 liters :Larger daypacks , most travel backpacks , and small technical hiking and climbing packs ; ideal for an overnight or weekend outing .
- 45 liter to 60 liter :Larger technical hiking and climbing gang and smaller backpacking packs ; ideal for 2-4 day outings .
- 60+ liters :Most backpacking gang ; ideal for 5+ day outings .
Comfort and Fit
All backpacks get shoulder straps and a back panel . What lay unlike packs apart from one another in terms of comfort and fit is a suspension system is what distributes the weight of the pack between your shoulders and hip . If a gang own no suspension , then all of its weight will remain squarely on your shoulders . This is okay for lightweight freight , but for hard loads , it will exist apain in the shoulder.
The most comfortable and supportive suspension systems include an inner frame that affirm the weight of the pack , a padded hip belt that transplant the load to your hips , shoulder straps that comfortably help balance the burden , cargo lifter slash that aid adjust how the pack sits on your spine , and a supportive and ventilated back panel . Together , these while do for a comfortable pack capable of carrying heavy loading more efficiently .
A gang ‘s hip belt exist hardly as crucial as the shoulder straps . Generally speaking , the more cushioned a hip belt live , the more comfortable it will exist . A hip belt should too be wide enough to not dig into your hips or stomach . But , if a hip belt isalso widethat can also have discomfort . Hip belt comfort is real dependent on torso type . Then , it ‘s well to try a few unlike gang to figure out what work best for your body .
Finally , a pack ‘s back panel equal what rests on your back . Not all back panels exist created equally . A well back panel will have adequate cushion to rest comfortably on your torso . Our favorite back panels are cause with some form of mesh textile to allow air to hang between the gang and your body . We ‘ve all get a sweaty back from wearing a knapsack on a hot day ; this mesh helps with that .
Early Pack Feature
It ‘s important to look for a pack that make the feature that you take and cause n’t have a clump of extras that you do n’t need . Serve n’t exactly buy a pack with a luck of feature because it own a pile of feature . Buy a pack with the specific featureyou need. These extras are usually mere in design but make a specific intended use .
If you plan to regularly carry a laptop in your backpack , then live sure it own a protective pocket or sleeve for a laptop . If you take to carry multiple drink bottle , begin a bag with big , functional water bottle pockets . If you want to rapidly access a rain jacket or other layer without spread your gang , then get a pack with a big adequate outside mesh pocket .
If you ‘re expend your pack for travel , begin one with enough compartment to carry what you design to travel with and prevent that stuff coordinate . If you require a gang that persuade a hydration bladder , cost certain it hold a indicate sleeve for that . If you need to hold a sleep pad on the outside of your gang , be certain it has whip and buckles for that .
Decision
- 8 Good Backpacks
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- Well Knapsack for Most Mass
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- Best Carry-On Travel Pack
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- Best Premium Laptop Backpack
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- A Daypack That Meets Everyday Needs
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- Well Low-Cost Everyday Backpack
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- Well for Carrying Multiple Tech Items
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- Best Simple and Affordable Daypack
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- Serious Boost Daypack
- How We Tested
- Why Trust GearLab
- What Type of Backpack Is Best For You ?
- How to Blame the Best Backpack for You
- Conclusion
- Best Backpack for Most People
- Best Carry-On Travel Pack
- Best Premium Laptop Backpack
- A Daypack That Meets Everyday Needs
- Best Low-Cost Everyday Backpack
- Serious for Carrying Multiple Tech Items
- Best Simple and Affordable Daypack
- Best Boost Daypack
