5 Best Backpacks for Travel in 2025

Planning your next big adventure but not sure which backpack to trust with your essentials? Whether you're trekking through remote trails, hopping from one city to another, or backpacking through stunning landscapes, the right pack can make or break your experience. A good backpack isn’t just about carrying your stuff; it’s about comfort, durability, and practicality so you can focus on making memories.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the 5 best backpacking backpacks for travel in 2025. We'll help you choose the perfect pack based on your needs, trip length, and unique style.

Why Your Backpack Matters

Your backpack is the backbone of your travel experience—literally. From evenly distributing the weight to ensuring everything is easily accessible, a quality backpack is essential for a hassle-free trip. The wrong backpack can leave you with sore shoulders, poor organization, and, frankly, a frustrating experience. That’s why it’s important to choose wisely.

What to Look for in a Backpacking Backpack

Before exploring our top five picks, it’s important to define what makes a backpacking backpack “the best.” Here are the primary criteria to consider:

• Size and Capacity: Choose the capacity (usually measured in liters) based on the type of trip you’re planning. Weekend trips might only need a 40-50L capacity, while extended treks could require 65L or more.

• Comfort and Support: Look for adjustable shoulder straps, a weight-bearing hip belt, padded back panels, and ventilation systems to enhance comfort.

• Durability: High-quality materials like ripstop nylon ensure your backpack stands up to tough trails, changing weather, and life on the go.

• Extra Features: Water resistance, external gear loops, hydration pack compatibility, and multiple compartments can make your adventure much smoother.

• Weight: Lightweight backpacks are always a priority, but stability and durability shouldn't be compromised.

Now that you know what to look for, here's a detailed review of five outstanding options available in 2024.

5 Best Backpacking Backpacks for Travel

1. Osprey Rook 65L

Best for Beginners

The Osprey Rook 65L is perfect for novice backpackers. Its simple yet sturdy design combines reliable functionality with exceptional comfort. The highly adjustable torso system ensures a personalized fit, while the back panel features AirSpeed suspension for outstanding ventilation on hot days.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 65L

• Adjustable torso length

• Integrated rain cover

• External hydration sleeve

Why We Love It:

Its beginner-friendly design focuses on ease of use without sacrificing any durability or comfort. Plus, Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers you for repairs and replacements!

2. Osprey Renn 65L

Best Women-Specific Fit

Designed specifically for women, the Osprey Renn 65L provides unmatched comfort and support. With its lightweight frame and intuitive fit, even long treks won’t feel like a burden. Like the Rook, the Renn includes an AirSpeed ventilated back panel, keeping you cool wherever you wander.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 65L

• Women-specific fit for enhanced comfort

• Rain cover included

• Seamless load distribution system

Why We Love It:

Tailored to fit the female frame without skimping on durability or storage!

3. Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack

Best Budget Option

Tight budget? The Loowoko 50L hiking backpack has you covered. It’s a functional, affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality. With 8 adjustable straps, you can comfortably attach everything from sleeping bags to trekking poles. Its water-resistant material also ensures your essentials stay dry.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 50L

• Water-resistant material

• Adjustable straps for extra gear storage

• Multiple compartments for better organization

Why We Love It:

Perfect for short trips or beginner adventurers looking for value without cutting corners.

4. TETON Sports Scout 65L Internal Frame Backpack

Best for Extended Trips

If you’re planning a longer trip with more gear, the TETON Sports Scout 65L offers the perfect balance of capacity and durability. It includes a sturdy internal frame, a padded lumbar support system, and multiple adjustment options to ensure the perfect fit.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 65L

• Adjustable torso and waist straps

• Integrated rain cover

• Lightweight, sturdy internal frame

Why We Love It:

This pack is comfortable for both long trails and extended city-hopping, making it one of the most versatile options on our list.

5. Osprey Atmos AG 65L

Best Overall for Long-Term Comfort

For serious adventurers, the Osprey Atmos AG 65L is the gold standard. Its signature Anti-Gravity suspension system provides even weight distribution, making heavy loads feel surprisingly light. This hardworking pack has all the bells and whistles, including top-tier ventilation and organizational compartments.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 65L

• Anti-Gravity suspension

• Adjustable Fit-on-the-Fly hip belt

• External hydration sleeve

Why We Love It:

It’s a high-performing powerhouse for long-term comfort, durability, and functionality.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Right Backpack

• Match the Backpack to Your Trip:

For weekend hikes, a 50L capacity pack, like the Loowoko, is your best bet. For month-long adventures, look into 65L packs like the Osprey Rook or Atmos AG.

• Get the Right Fit:

A correctly adjusted hip belt and shoulder straps make all the difference. Please always test the backpack fully loaded before you purchase.

• Pay Attention to Features:

Hydration sleeves and rain covers might seem minor, but they can be game-changers on the trail.

Pack Smarter, Travel Happier

Choosing the right backpack can completely transform your travel experiences. With these 5 outstanding options, there’s something for every kind of adventure—from quick weekend getaways to epic multi-country treks.