Backpacking is a fun way to see Europe, especially if you’re on a budget. This style of travel has become popular over the last few decades, but it’s named right after the most important part of the trip: the backpack. So how does one choose the best backpack for traveling in Europe?
The nature of traveling to Europe requires careful consideration of the backpack you’re bringing with you. It should be lightweight and comfortable. Anti-theft features will be beneficial. Your backpack should also comply with European travel requirements and help you stay organized.
There are many excellent backpacks out there that make the cut, but how do you choose the one that’s right for your specific travel needs when you go to Europe? In this article, you’ll learn everything about choosing the right one for you. Read on.
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Features of the Best Backpacks for Traveling Europe
For a great number of travelers, there really is no better way to explore Europe than by backpacking. It’s the most affordable way to see the sights while still making the most of your experience. Having said that, backpacking all boils down to having the appropriate backpack for the job.
Not just any other backpack will do. European airlines have their own size requirements to consider, and traveling around the continent on buses and trains means you should carefully think about the type of backpack you should bring with you.
Read on below to review the most important features you should look out for:
Capacity
Generally speaking, a 40-liter travel backpack provides enough space for a backpacking trip around the EU considering you’re packing minimally and don’t plan to do much shopping.
The maximum carry-on size allowed by most budget airlines in Europe is around 35 to 40 liters, with a maximum weight of 20 to 25 pounds. Backpacks this size are small enough to be stowed in overhead bins.
Airlines charge hefty fees for excess baggage weight, so always check restrictions and follow them to avoid paying unnecessary fees. If you want to take your bag on the plane with you to save on excess weight charges, stick to a compact size.
However, the right size of backpack will vary. Sometimes, it may be wiser to check in your backpack if needed, such as for travelers who will do extended backpacking trips that entail large backpacks.
In addition, consider these factors when deciding on the capacity of your backpack:
- The season
- The location
- Duration of your trip
- Individual travel style
Traveling to the coldest places in Europe, such as Switzerland, Germany, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland at any time of the year will certainly require you to bring bulkier clothes for warmth. On the other hand, traveling during the spring and winter to a European beach or to Mediterranean cities will require you to pack at least a few jackets or coats, otherwise, you may be a bit cold. To stay comfortable, the answer lies in using a spacious backpack that has enough room for cold-weather clothes.
Smart travelers can also wear the heaviest items of clothing while on the plane to save on weight and space. You can make use of compression packing cubes to maximize the space in your backpack.
If you are backpacking around Europe, and are bringing one large backpack or luggage, it’s always recommended to bring along a smaller daypack. A daypack with a 15 to 20-liter capacity that can hold just what you need for the day as you leave the rest of your gear in your accommodation will make sightseeing more convenient. Some of the things you can bring along with you in your daypack include a camera, your wallet, identification, and a bottle of water.
You can also opt for backpacks with expandable storage. This type of design lets you have extra capacity when you need it. It will come in handy when shopping around the many fashionable boutiques in Europe, especially those in France, Italy, and Spain.
Dimensions
The best backpack to travel in Europe has dimensions that do not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This is the maximum size accepted by most European airlines for carry-on luggage. This size backpack is also convenient while in transit since it can easily be stowed underneath your seat.
Sticking to a backpack that you can check in is a great way to save time and money anywhere on the continent. Checked luggage fees are expensive and do add up, which can eat up money for budget travelers.
However, if you don’t mind spending extra on luggage and it’s more important to have a larger bag for a bigger wardrobe selection, then you have the freedom of using a larger backpack that you can check-in.
Weight
Given that the airline requirements in Europe allow for no more than 20 to 25 pounds for check-in bags, your empty backpack should not weigh more than 3 pounds. In fact, the lighter your empty backpack is, the better.
When shopping around for travel backpacks, it’s always recommended to go with the lightest choice possible. There are many durable backpacks that are constructed with ultra-light materials.
Style
A durable travel backpack with practical features and ultra-comfortable wear is more important than a fashionable bag. Opt for an elegant yet neutral color in a classic structure or shape that you’ll always go back to.
It’s always recommended to invest your hard-earned money in a pack that’s filled with useful features instead of one that’s trendy but lacks comfort, security, and organizational compartments. Many seasoned travelers and backpackers opt to use hiking backpacks for a trip to Europe; this is always a good idea, especially for extended trips involving a lot of sightseeing and activities.
Look for features that contribute to flexibility:
- Handles
- Suspension system
- Harness
- Expandable storage
Alternatively, hiking backpacks are something you may want to consider. They give travelers so much more flexibility, especially those who want to explore the trails of Europe, such as those in Scotland, Norway, England, and the Dolomites.
Hiking backpacks come with a couple of useful features, such as advanced suspension systems to help transfer weight more effectively, more padding for added comfort, durable fabric in areas of the pack that are exposed to more wear and tear, lined compartments for sunglasses, water-resistant fabrics, and much more. Hiking backpacks simply have more to offer compared to traditional ones, and they come in a range of beautiful colors and designs too.
However, if you are spending more time in the city instead of in the outdoors, then you can make do with a backpack that comes with simpler features.
Anti-Theft Features
Theft is common in Europe: it happens on the streets, hostels, buses, and trains. Backpack users are usually targeted because it's difficult to always pay attention to what's going on behind you when wearing your backpack. Thieves are after your cash, passport, keys, and important documents, which may lead to identity fraud.
The cities in Europe that are most notorious for pickpocketing include Rome, Paris, and Madrid – but that doesn’t have to stop you from having a safe and fun trip to those beautiful destinations. The solution is to have the right backpack.
Look for anti-theft features such as TSA-approved padlocks, slash-proof fabric, RFID-safe pockets, lockable zippers, and hidden pockets. All of these are effective in deterring thieves.
Don't overlook the importance of anti-theft features when traveling to Europe. It may be the one thing that can make a difference between an enjoyable holiday and one that isn't.
Organization
No matter what kind of adventure you are going on in Europe, staying organized is vital for the success of your trip. Always choose a backpack with enough compartments and pockets for your trip. These ensure you can stream line your packing list, and get what you need without rummaging through it.
You should also know where everything is located when you’re on vacation. Below are examples of pockets your backpack should have:
- Laptop compartment, particularly for business travelers
- Tablet sleeve
- Internal pockets to easily organize your clothes and other belongings
- Front access pocket for items you need easy access to
- A water bottle pocket or two side pockets, which you can use to keep a map and umbrella
- Anti-theft or hidden pockets, if you are carrying sensitive data or valuables
- Tech pocket for electronics and cables
Additionally, you can make use of travel organizers and pouches for added organization within your backpack. For example, a separate kit to organize your toiletries and packing cubes for shoes and t-shirts will help you stay on top of your belongings.
Straps
Depending on how much you’re carrying with you, there are certain types of backpack straps you should be using. At the very least, your backpack should have thick, padded, and adjustable straps because they make a big difference in comfort.
A good backpack for traveling Europe should have a supportive suspension system. These include:
- Compression straps, which are located outside the backpack. These are used to tighten and compress the pack for better weight distribution, and so that the pack is closer to your back. It can also be used to attach other items such as your water bottles and sleeping bags.
- A hip belt is crucial for carrying heavy loads over 35L. Hip belts play an important role by transferring as much as 80% of the pack’s weight from your shoulders to the hips, greatly reducing back pain and discomfort. As a result, shoulder straps won’t dig into your shoulders.
A hip belt is one of the most crucial types of suspension systems that heavy backpack users should always have.
- Chest strap: Also known as sternum strap, a chest strap goes horizontally across the chest, linking each shoulder strap together. The main purpose of a chest strap is to add support for the backpack wearer because it reduces shoulder strain, especially when wearing the backpack for several hours. Using the chest strap correctly can effectively relieve pressure on your shoulders.
Materials
There are several things to consider when determining the best kind of material for a backpack to use in Europe.
If you are visiting parts of Europe that are known for unpredictable weather, such as the United Kingdom, choose a backpack that is made of water-resistant or waterproof fabric. At the very least, a travel bag should have a rain cover which you can use whenever you need to. This way, you don’t have to worry about keeping your belongings dry in case of rain.
The fabric should also be durable. Nylon and polyester are king; these fabrics are widely used in the manufacture of travel backpacks.
Check for the durability of nylon or polyester through its denier rating, which is provided by the manufacturer. Generally speaking, always go for a denier rating of at least 300D for daypacks and at least 500D for backpacking backpacks.
The higher the denier rating, the more durable the bag’s construction. Higher denier ratings are usually associated with a higher price tag, but it’s worth the investment when you know the bag will last you a long time.
Our Recommendations for the Best Travel Backpack for Europe
There are a ton of great travel bags on the market. To help make your shopping easier, below is a guide featuring bags that are popular among people who frequent Europe. You can also check out bags by other renowned brands, including Nomatic and REI.
Be sure to read up on their reviews to understand differences in specifications as well as pros and cons written by other customers.
Compact / Carry On Backpacks
Below is a list of smaller backpacks, some of which can be used as carry-on:
Osprey Fairview 40L: Osprey is a travel company with a loyal following around the world. Among their many world-class products, the Osprey Fairview 40L is one of the most popular travel and hiking backpacks. It's certainly one you'll be able to use for both reasons interchangeably because of its durability.
This backpack was designed specifically to be used as a carry-on, given its compact size. Its dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inches, so you can definitely use it as a carry-on for domestic flights around Europe. It weighs just 3.41 pounds but you can pack a considerable amount of essentials inside this pack.
The Osprey Fairview 40L is full of features that improve the comfort of travelers. It’s equipped with a stowaway harness system and a hip belt which you can take out any time you need. The smart and ergonomic design can fit both men and women properly; a number of adjustments can also be made to better fit your torso and shoulders.
Your European getaway will be an organized one, thanks to this backpack’s many compartments. It comes with an external toiletry pocket, lockable sliders on the main compartment’s zipper, an internal mesh zippered pocket, and a laptop and tablet sleeve. Additionally, the bag features two compression straps inside to effectively hold your belongings in place.
Overall, the Osprey Fairview 40L is one of the best travel backpacks on the market, and for good reason. This is an investment that is made to last a lifetime, so you definitely won’t regret it.
Vera Bradley Microfiber Large Travel Backpack: Travelers looking for low-maintenance and lightweight travel backpacks can’t go wrong with the Vera Bradley Microfiber Large Travel Backpack. This is ideal for use in European cities, but versatile enough for commuting and urban use at home.
This bag has several practical pockets: three slip pockets located in the front compartment, a zippered mesh pocket, two expandable side pockets, and a thick laptop pocket. Staying organized while on the road will be easy when you use this bag. It also comes with a useful trolley sleeve, which allows you to attach it to your wheeled luggage.
The Vera Bradley Microfiber Large Travel Backpack weighs just 2.9 pounds and is 35L large. It’s easy to clean, too: stains and dirt can easily be removed by spot cleaning; just use mild detergent and a soft cloth to wipe it off.
Tortuga Outbreaker: The Tortuga Outbreaker is an essential bag for any backpacker and frequent traveler. It comes in two sizes: a 35L, designed for convenient use as an international carry-on, and a 45L version, which complies with US carry-on restrictions. This bag is perfect for bringing everything you need on a flight.
The sizes available for this bag can accommodate trips of a week or more. Packing this bag is a breeze: it features a front-loading clamshell opening that opens up just like a suitcase. A dedicated padded compartment is provided for safely storing your laptop or tablet.
The Tortuga Outbreaker has an array of other pockets: mesh pockets found in the main area, and side pockets that you can use for other items. The exterior organizer pocket already comes with a key clip, while the dual flat front pockets are ideal for small items that you need quick access to.
This bag is one of the most comfortable travel backpacks around. It’s height-adjustable for a better fit on your body, and it already comes with a hip belt designed to reduce 80% of the weight on your shoulders. Additionally, the shoulder straps are generously padded with foam for comfort during your travels.
Other excellent features of the backpack include a sternum strap, load lifters, and sweat-wicking foam found on the back panel. Tortuga has thought of virtually everything that travelers may need out of a backpack; nothing has been left to the wind.
This bag is also constructed from tear-proof and waterproof sailcloth fabric. Water-resistant and lockable zippers, plus the most durable hardware, give you peace of mind as you go through your most unforgettable experiences.
Take note, the Tortuga Outbreaker is a fantastic all-around choice for everyone going to Europe. No matter how many times you use it, you’ll be pleased to see how well it holds up. Alternatively, the Tortuga Setout is another wonderful choice from this brand.
Osprey Porter 46 Carry On Backpack: If you need a backpack that is comfortable to wear as you use various modes of transportation in Europe, such as planes and trains, the Osprey Porter 46 is highly recommended. This bag is so versatile that you can use it in numerous ways and on many different kinds of trips.
There are many features designed for the benefit and convenience of any backpacker. Packing and unpacking is made easy through bucket-style and U-zip openings, which offer more security for your belongings. The primary compartment and laptop sleeve have a lockable zipper for extra protection.
The Osprey Porter 46 is designed with several unique aspects, including the StraightJacket compression system that has sidewalls with padding. These ensure that no matter how big your pack is, it’s always secured. The stowaway harness and hip belt can be deployed within seconds any time you need them. There are tons of strategic pockets and compartments too, including a front panel organizational pocket, two internal zippered side pockets, and a vertical internal pocket for travel documents and books.
In addition, it’s equipped with a padded luggage handle which always comes in handy at any airport. Osprey has designed this travel bag using high-quality sustainable materials that will last you for life.
Hiking Backpacks
Below is a list of larger backpacks and hiking backpacks that are suitable for backpackers going on trips for longer periods of time:
Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack: Backpackers operate on a tight budget. Having said that, a low-cost yet durable and functional backpack is a must. The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack is a high-performance travel pack with practical features at a reasonable price point.
This pack is one of the best value-for-money travel bags out there. Despite that, it’s renowned for durability and versatility. The bag is constructed out of light abrasion-resistant fabric, breathable mesh shoulder straps, and generous padding for maximum comfort.
Take the Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack on just about any kind of adventure. With 50 liters of space, you’ll have more than enough room to pack anything you need. The detachable rain cover is stored in a pocket located in the bottom of the pack, which you can deploy within seconds for protection.
It comes with several functional benefits that both hikers and travelers appreciate. These include a sleeping bag compartment, several useful pockets inside and out, an extra-thick back panel, and S-type shoulder straps for comfort. The Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack is proof you don’t need to spend a large amount of money for a long-lasting, high-performance travel bag.
Osprey Farpoint 55L: Anyone going on multi-week backpacking trips will need plenty of space as well as better organization. The Osprey Farpoint 55L is designed specifically for this purpose: to support travelers as they go on their biggest adventures.
This backpack contains some technical features that you will need on longer trips. These include 4mm LightWire load lifter frames for transfer, adjustable torso fit, and breathable hip belts and harnesses. It also comes with an extra thoughtful feature: a detachable daypack that you can use as you explore a new restaurant or sightsee for the day.
Farpoint has a cult following among seasoned travelers, and it’s easy to see why. This pack is big on comfort, thanks to the mesh-covered foam back panel for optimum ventilation. The adjustable sternum strap even comes with its own rescue whistle, which is handy if you plan to do some hiking too.
The Osprey Farpoint 55 is an excellent choice for adventurous men and women. It has everything you need for longer trips and more.
The North Face Banchee 50L Backpacking Backpack: For those going on hiking trips in remote European mountains, The North Face Banchee 50L backpack is the bag for the job. It’s equipped with amazing features that support your hiking excursions, giving you lots of room for all the stuff you’ll need. It comes in several versions: small, medium, large, and extra-large to accommodate travelers of different sizes.
There are several pockets for organizing your trail essentials: these include two expandable pockets on its sides, a beaver-trail pocket, tool compartments, and a hydration sleeve, among others. This backpack is constructed out of lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying fabric. Even when packed to full capacity, the T6 aluminum frame offers excellent load control without hindering your movement.
The North Face Banchee weighs just 3 pounds, so it won’t make much of a dent when you’re packing your things. It also comes with reflective webbing to improve visibility and safety while on the trail. Overall, The North Face Banchee 50L has proven to be among the top choices for scaling those peaks in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a backpack better than a suitcase for traveling to Europe?
There are many reasons why any tourist would prefer to use a backpack instead of a suitcase when traveling to Europe:
- Hands-free traveling: A backpack enables you to use both your hands as you navigate the streets of Europe
- Easy movement: Getting through tight spaces and crowds is much easier when you have a backpack
- Storage: Hostels typically offer lockers, and backpacks will fit in them perfectly. Suitcases are too large for storing in hostel lockers
- Lightweight: Backpacks are lighter than suitcases
- Transportation: Many hotels and hostels particularly in Southern Europe don’t have elevators, and quaint European cities have cobblestone streets. Dragging a suitcase around will be a huge inconvenience, but a backpack makes it all so much simpler.
Bulky suitcases and luggage have too many shortcomings for travelers who need more mobility and flexibility. They make getting around difficult, not to mention uncomfortable.
What other backpack styles are ideal for traveling to Europe?
Convertible duffle packs are an excellent choice for the traveler who requires some versatility. Being able to switch from backpack to duffel bag any time you need can greatly increase your mobility, particularly if you are athletic.
Alternatively, wheeled or rolling backpacks are another option. These enable you to switch from backpack to rolling luggage at any time, which comes in handy when you’re traveling from the rough cobblestone streets of Europe (wear it as a backpack) to when you arrive at the airport (switch to wheeled luggage). Wheeled backpacks offer travelers a kind of versatility that makes traveling much easier when you don’t want to commit to just one type of backpack for convenience.
Small daypacks of various designs are handy for a few hours of sightseeing. Drawstring, backpack purses, and small travel backpacks are great backpack categories you can choose from too.
Conclusion
There are many options to choose from when it comes to the best travel backpacks for Europe. Understanding the nature of your destination and the kind of trip you are going is important information in deciding on the ideal pack for your travel needs. Carefully reading the factors mentioned in this post will also help you make an informed buying decision.