Finding the perfect travel backpack is essential for any trip, whether you're heading out on a weekend getaway, an international adventure, or a multi-city tour. For women, a great travel backpack not only needs to be functional but should also fit comfortably, offer stylish design options, and be durable enough to handle the wear and tear of travel.
With so many choices on the market, it can be hard to know which backpack is right for you. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the **best travel backpacks for women**. Whether you’re a minimalist traveler, a digital nomad, or someone who likes to be prepared for any situation, we’ve got you covered.
What Makes The Best Travel Backpack for Women?
Before diving into our top recommendations, let's break down what makes a travel backpack truly exceptional for women:
- Comfort and Fit: Women's bodies are different from men’s, so a well-designed women’s travel backpack will consider shoulder width, torso length, and hip support. Look for backpacks with adjustable straps, padded shoulder harnesses, and a contoured fit.
- Style and Size: A good backpack is both functional and stylish. You don’t need to sacrifice aesthetics for utility! Consider the size as well—too small, and you won’t have enough room for your essentials; too large, and it might become cumbersome to carry.
- Organization and Pockets: Having easy access to your belongings is crucial when you're on the go. A great backpack should offer plenty of compartments and pockets for organized packing, so you can separate your electronics, toiletries, clothes, and other travel essentials.
- Durability: Traveling takes a toll on your gear, so durability is key. Look for water-resistant fabrics, sturdy zippers, and reinforced stitching to ensure your backpack lasts for years.
- Weight: A lightweight backpack can make a world of difference, especially when you're traveling long distances. Look for options that are sturdy yet not too heavy, so you can fill them up without adding unnecessary weight.
With these factors in mind, let’s jump into the best travel backpacks for women!
Best for: Women who want a lightweight, carry-on-sized backpack that still has plenty of room.
The Osprey Fairview 40 is one of the best backpacks for women who need a versatile, lightweight option that works well for both weekend trips and extended adventures. It’s specifically designed for women, with an adjustable torso length and comfortable shoulder straps that fit the female form. The 40L capacity makes it carry-on compliant for most airlines, so you won’t have to worry about checking luggage.
Features:
Padded laptop and tablet sleeve.
Stowable shoulder straps and hip belt, turning it into a duffel.
Multiple organization pockets and front-loading main compartment.
Water-resistant, durable material.
Why it’s great: The Osprey Fairview 40 is comfortable, compact, and stylish. It’s the ideal best travel backpack for women who want a practical backpack that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. Its carry-on size makes it a top choice for travellers who prefer to pack light and avoid checked baggage fees.
2. Patagonia Black Hole 32L
Best for: Eco-conscious travellers who want a stylish, durable backpack made from recycled materials.
The Patagonia Black Hole 32L is not only built to last but is also made from 100% recycled polyester, making it a fantastic option for eco-conscious travelers. This backpack can handle rugged adventures, city travel, and everything in between. It's water-resistant and incredibly durable, so whether you’re hiking in the mountains or navigating crowded city streets, this backpack will hold up.
Features:
Weatherproof construction and durable material.
Large main compartment with smaller front pockets.
Laptop sleeve and plenty of internal organization.
Comfortable padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap for extra support.
Why it’s great: The Patagonia Black Hole 32L strikes a perfect balance between style, functionality, and sustainability. It’s perfect for women who want a backpack they can take from a plane to the outdoors without any fuss, and it comes in several attractive colours.
Best for: Digital nomads or long-term travellers who need extra space and lots of organization.
For women who are frequent travellers or digital nomads, the tomtoc rravel backpack offers a generous amount of space with the convenience of a carry-on. The 40L size means it’s spacious enough to pack everything you need for longer trips, including electronics, clothes, and toiletries. It’s designed with organization in mind, making it easy to access your gear on the go.
Features:
perfect size for carry-on compliance with most airlines.
Clamshell-Style Opening for Easy Packing
Multiple compartments for separating your clothes, tech, and travel essentials.
Made from durable, water-resistant fabric, this backpack is designed to withstand the wear and tear of travel.
padded shoulder straps are designed to distribute weight evenly across your shoulders
Why It's great: The Tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L offers a fantastic combination of style, practicality, and durability, making it an excellent option for a wide variety of travelers. Its smart organization, comfortable carrying system, and carry-on-friendly size make it a versatile travel companion, whether you’re heading out on a business trip, a weekend adventure, or a long-term journey.
4. Herschel Little America Backpack
For women looking for a more casual, stylish option, the Herschel Little America Backpack is a fantastic choice. Known for its minimalist design and vintage style, this backpack is perfect for city travel or weekend getaways. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of more technical backpacks, it’s still highly functional with a padded laptop sleeve and a spacious main compartment.
Features:
Padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve.
Magnetic strap closures with metal pin clips.
Lightweight, padded shoulder straps for comfort.
Iconic design available in a variety of colors.
Why it’s great: The Herschel Little America Backpack is perfect for women who want a blend of style and functionality. It’s great for urban travel, commuting, or short trips, and its sleek design ensures you’ll look fashionable wherever you go.
If you’re heading out on a long-term adventure or a backpacking trip, the Deuter Aircontact Lite 60 + 10 SL is one of the best options for women. This pack is designed for long-term comfort, with a women-specific fit and an adjustable back system that provides excellent ventilation. It has a 60L capacity with an extra 10L of expansion, making it ideal for carrying all the gear you need for extended trips.
Features:
Adjustable women-specific harness system.
Excellent ventilation and padded hip belt for load distribution.
Spacious compartments and hydration system compatibility.
Built-in rain cover for wet conditions.
Why it’s great: The Deuter Aircontact Lite 60 + 10 SL is the best travel backpack for women who need a reliable backpack for long-term travel, trekking, or backpacking. It’s designed with comfort and practicality in mind, making it ideal for those heavy-duty trips where you need to carry a lot of gear.
Best for: Day trips, light travel, or minimalist packers who want a stylish yet functional bag.
The Fjällräven Kånken has become a global icon thanks to its clean, stylish design and practicality. Originally created for Swedish schoolchildren, this backpack is perfect for women who prefer a small, lightweight option for day trips or light packing. It’s not a technical travel backpack, but it’s great for shorter outings or minimalist travellers who don’t need to carry much.
Features:
Lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.
Spacious main compartment with a large zip opening.
Comfortable shoulder straps and a carry handle.
Available in a wide variety of colours.
Why it’s great: The Fjällräven Kånken is the perfect blend of style and function. It’s ideal for women who want a small, versatile backpack for casual trips or everyday use. Its compact size makes it great for day trips or as a secondary travel bag for short excursions.
Choosing the right travel backpack for women ultimately comes down to personal preference, your travel style, and the type of adventures you embark on. Whether you're looking for a versatile carry-on, a stylish daypack, or a serious trekking bag, there’s a perfect travel backpack out there for you.
Before making a decision, consider factors like how much space you need, what kind of activities you’ll be doing, and how long you’ll be on the road. The right backpack can make a world of difference in your travel experience—so choose wisely, pack smart, and get ready for your next adventure!