Travel bag: the ultimate guide to choosing the right adventure companion
When planning a trip, choosing the backpack is one of the most important, often underestimated elements. Whether you are a city trip enthusiast, a seasoned hiker or a future globetrotter on a world tour, the travel backpack will be your best ally. But how do you choose the right one from the hundreds of models available? Capacity, comfort, organization, durability... We help you find the perfect backpack for your needs and travel style.
Travel bag: the essential adventure companion
Whether you are going for a weekend in Europe or a world tour lasting several months, the travel backpack is more than just luggage: it's your best ally for a successful experience. Compact, practical, and suitable for all situations, your bag is the modern traveler's essential piece of equipment.
Unlike a suitcase, the backpack offers a freedom of movement total. It is ideal for walking, public transport or destinations where roads are difficult to navigate. In addition, many models are designed for use in airplane cabin, saving you hold baggage fees and waiting at the airport.
Investing in a good travel backpack is ensuring a lighter, smoother and more enjoyable journey Brands like Osprey, Klattermusen, Patagonia, and Norrona offer bag models suitable for all profiles, from backpackers to digital nomads.
In short, choosing a backpack that's right for your needs is the first step toward a successful trip. So, are you ready to head out on your adventure with the right backpack on your shoulders?
Why choose a backpack for traveling?
Unlike a suitcase, the backpack offers a freedom of movement incomparable. It follows you everywhere, from the cobbled streets of Europe to the steep trails of South America. Here are its main advantages:
- Versatility: suitable for both cities and nature.
- Practicality: you always have your things with you, without having to roll a suitcase.
- Compactness: ideal for light travel or cabin baggage.
- Resistance: designed to withstand shocks, bad weather and long durations.
- Autonomy: perfect for backpacking or stays without a fixed base.
The travel backpack is therefore a choice of mobility, efficiency and freedom.
What capacity should you choose for your travel bag?
Capacity is one of the first criteria to define. It depends on the duration of the trip, your style (minimalist or all-comfort), and the destination.
The Different Types of Travel Backpacks
Not all backpacks are created equal. Here are the main types to know:
- Hiking backpack: rigid back, large capacity, lumbar belt – ideal for long walks.
- Cabin backpack: dimensions adapted to the requirements of airlines.
- Hybrid or modular bag: a large bag + a small detachable one (usable for day trips).
- Urban or anti-theft bag: discreet, sober design, safe for city travel.
- Convertible bag: combined backpack and suitcase (with handles and front opening).
Each type of bag meets specific needs: it’s up to you to identify those that match your travel style.
The essential criteria for choosing your travel backpack
1. Carrying comfort
Your bag will sometimes be on your shoulders for several hours a day. Good carrying system is therefore essential:
- Padded and ventilated back: limits perspiration and prevents pain.
- Adjustable straps: adapt to your body shape.
- Chest strap: stabilizes the bag while walking.
- Waist belt: distributes the weight towards the hips (relieves the shoulders).
A good fit reduces fatigue and prevents back pain.
2. Internal organization
- Exterior pockets for quick access items (bottle, passport, charger)
- Laptop compartment
- Secret pocket on the back or on the belt
Waterproof compartment for dirty or damp laundry
Practical tip: use packing cubes or storage pockets for optimal organization.
3. Resistance and materials
Your bag must be resistant to shocks, friction, and bad weather. Choose:
- Ripstop nylon,Cordura,reinforced polyester
- YKK zippers (renowned for their solidity)
- Water-repellent or waterproof coating
- Integrated rain cover for humid environments
4. Empty weight
A 60 litre bag must not exceed 2.5 to 3 kg empty. Beyond that, you risk losing comfort and mobility. If you're traveling with a limited baggage airline (10 kg in the cabin), every gram counts.
The best travel bag brands
Here are some brands recognized for the quality, durability and ergonomics of their bags:
- Osprey: essential for backpacking.
- Norrona: excellent for long hikes.
- Lowe Alpine: sturdy and well-ventilated bags.
- Haize Project: modular and designer bag for modern travelers.
- Millet: very good value for money, ideal for beginners.
Prepare and fill your backpack well
Some rules to follow:
- Roll your clothes rather than folding them to save space.
- Place heavy objects in the center, close to the back to balance the weight.
- Keep the essentials at the top: jacket, toiletry bag, charger…
- Use waterproof bags for rainwear or electronic equipment.
- Limit yourself to the essentials: travel light to travel far.
Essential checklist:
- Clothing appropriate for the climate
- Comfortable shoes
- Toiletry bag (small size)
- Medicines and dressings
- Travel document pouch
- Universal adapter
- External battery
- Foldable bag for excursions
Conclusion: A good bag for a better trip
THE travel backpack is not a simple accessory: it is a traveling companion. A bad choice can turn your adventure into an ordeal. A good bag, well organized and comfortable, will allow you to travel light, free, and serene.
Take the time to try it, compare it and adjust it. Whether you're going on a weekend trip to Barcelona or 6 months in Asia, it will quickly become the extension of yourself.
And remember: it's not the size of the bag that matters, but what you experience with it.
Which bag should you choose for a weekend getaway? Our tips for traveling light
You are planning a getaway for a few days and you are wondering which bag to choose for a weekend getaway ? Whether it's for a city trip to Europe, a trip to the countryside or a short romantic getaway, choosing the right bag is essential for traveling. Practical, light and stress-free.
Backpack, travel bag or cabin suitcase?
For a weekend, you have three main options:
- The travel backpack: perfect for traveling by train or public transport. Choose a model of 30 to 40 liters, with good support and several compartments for optimal organization.
- The soft travel bag (duffle bag): lightweight and spacious, it fits easily into a car trunk. Choose a model with a shoulder strap and a wide opening for easy access.
- The cabin suitcase: ideal if you are traveling by plane with a low-cost airline. Make sure that its dimensions comply with the restrictions (often 55x40x20 cm).
Our recommendations
- For an urban weekend: a cabin backpack compact and stylish will do the trick.
- For a relaxing or sporty stay: a convertible sports bag or a sturdy travel bag.
- For a road trip: a soft and foldable bag will be more convenient to carry.
💡 Tip: Travel with versatile clothing and use storage pockets to save space.
In short, for a successful weekend, choose a bag that's lightweight, functional, and suited to your mode of transportation. A good bag guarantees a smooth, hassle-free trip!
Also discover our selection of the best on our online store backpack.paris bicycle bags and hiking bags.
