Best Travel Backpack for Women In 2023 (According To World Travelers)
When you’re on the road, your backpack is your home! So, you want to choose the best travel backpack with tons of consideration.
It doesn’t matter if you are a mountain or beach lover, you’ll need a backpack with plenty of compartments, comfortable straps, and excellent weight distribution, and it should hug your posture like a dream. Otherwise, you’ll be dying from back pain halfway through your trip!
Size is also an important factor. Are you looking to use it as a carry-on? Do you have a lot of travel gear?
But don’t worry; you don’t have to face that ordeal anymore as we’ve fished out the best travel backpack for women. These travel backpacks are made to last long, and you can carry all your essentials without any hassle.
Before we dive in, let’s answer a few questions first.
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Why Is A Backpack Better Than A Suitcase?
For a more authentic experience, you need to get out of your high-rise hotels and explore the nooks and crannies of the city. But with a suitcase in tow, it’s next to impossible to get anywhere. You can carry or pull them easily, but there isn’t much space for your shopping spree.
Backpacks, on the other hand, don’t cause as much trouble and elevate your travel experience. You can stroll easily through narrow alleys and climb steps without worrying about a bulky suitcase following you like a shadow.
Before we get into our list of best backpacks for women’s travel, let’s understand what makes a good travel backpack.
Best Travel Backpack Features To Look For
Different brands have different features, but the following are some of the most common qualities to expect in a great travel backpack. What’s more? You can find them easily within your budget too!

Size Of The Bag
Your bag should be big enough to carry all your essentials. If you’re planning to go on a short trip or even a week-long adventure, you don’t need a huge backpack that needs its own luggage.
Hip Belt
Many modern backpacks for women feature hip belts and sternum straps (the strap across your chest). These features not only make the backpack more comfortable but also help distribute the weight to your hips and shoulders equally.
Aeration Pads
The back section of a backpack is meant to fit against your spine, and the padding keeps it from digging in too deep. So, while choosing a backpack for women, check for aeration pads that provide enough comfort while still being snug enough for your back.
Load Range
The backpack’s load range or maximum recommended weight is an important factor to consider before buying one. It depends on the type of trip you’re planning, but usually, anything between 5-15 kilograms is fine for a multi-day trip. Beyond that would be too heavy for most backpacks.
Backpack’s Torso Length
If the backpack doesn’t fit your torso correctly, you won’t be able to carry it for long. To check this, all you have to do is adjust the strap and pull it as tight as possible. If there is a gap between the body and the backpack, it’s not going to be comfortable.
Compartments:
Some backpacks for women have a front compartment which is quite useful to stuff your jacket or sweater when you’re on the move. A lot of compartments also mean an easier organization which is always welcome. Unless you want to spend hours digging through your stuff, you should find a backpack with enough compartments to keep things separate.
Lockable Zippers
For long trips, lockable zippers are extremely useful. Not only do they provide more security, but also prevent accidental opening of your bag if it gets knocked into something or someone bumps into it.
Padded Laptop Sleeve
If you are a woman who travels with a laptop, it’s essential to have a backpack that is compatible with your computer. Some backpacks come with extra padded compartments for your laptops and tablets. They also ensure your stuff stays safe despite knocks and bumps on the way.
Suspension Type
Although most backpacks come with padded and adjustable suspension systems, some offer more features than others. Apart from adjustable straps, you should look for a backpack that has an easily accessible foam back panel as well as additional ventilation holes.
All these features will help ensure that you’re comfortable while carrying your bag and it doesn’t hurt your back.
Best Travel Backpack For Women – Our Top 5 Picks in 2023
With all this in mind, let’s take a look at our list of the best travel backpacks for women…that are also within your budget. We’ve tried to include backpacks from different price ranges, so you can choose one based on how much you can spend.
1. Venture Pal Backpack Daypack
For women who love to travel all the time, this Venture Pal Backpack Daypack is a perfect choice. It is an incredible combination of functionality and aesthetics, making it more appealing than regular travel backpacks!
When exploring the world, you need to stay as stress-free as possible. Therefore, the shoulder straps of this backpack are made with comfortable padding, so there’ll be no strain on your back. Moreover, the mesh straps are breathable; thus, you won’t feel any distress whatsoever.
Another great thing about a travel backpack is that it comes with a super lightweight design. Hence, you’ll have to carry the weights of your belongings only; the bag doesn’t put any extra pressure.
Despite being one of the lightweight backpacks, this nylon backpack is one of the most durable things; there’s no doubt about that. Furthermore, the double-layered bottom and bar tacks on stress points will hold your things with integrity, which is a relief!
Women love multi-compartment accessories when it comes to purses, wallets, and backpacks as they have to carry loads of things. For this reason, this bag is made with a zippered compartment and multiple exterior pockets to allow you to carry your whole beauty cabinet!
Additionally, there is an internal wet compartment, where you can keep your wet clothes right after taking a swim in the ocean or working out in your gym. And I believe it’s the smartest feature you can expect from any travel backpack for women.
The storage space is about 40L, which is a huge amount, to be honest. As a result, you can pack all your clothes, gear, shoes, water bottle, and toiletries without any trouble. Moreover, the entire bag is waterproof, making it more user-friendly than it already is!
However, as the bag’s material is thin and light, it is not a great choice for carrying your laptop or cameras without any protective covering. So, if you love to work on the go, this one is surely not the best laptop backpack for you!
PROS
CONS
Verdict
When you have tons of things to carry, but you’re afraid of straining your back, this backpack is the perfect solution for you. Moreover, it is available in multiple colors; hence pick one that matches your personality.
2. Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack
Not all of us are a fan of exciting patterns or vibrant colors. In that case, this Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack is the best thing you can get. It is robust, super stylish, highly functional, and convenient. Trust me; I’m not exaggerating!
This travel backpack comes in three basic yet elegant colors, so choosing will be a breezy task. Furthermore, it offers ample space to carry your clothes and beauty products, which is pretty amazing.
We admire how this backpack is made for well-balanced weight distribution. It has a sternum strap and waist belt to ensure better support for your posture. Moreover, the padded shoulder strap doesn’t put excessive pressure on your back, so you don’t have to rub Bengay on your joints every time you go for a hike.
Now let’s discuss the most convenient thing about this bag. Well, men can wash their whole bodies with just a bar soap, but women tend to pack different products; that’s no secret.
And so, this travel backpack for women comes with a front exterior pocket and top pocket, a compartment with an organizer, and tuck-away ID pockets. Well, that’s all you need.
Furthermore, the main compartment is designed with a mesh pocket. And the storage is expandable if you want some extra space. So, regarding convenience, this backpack is on the top.
One of the most impressive facts about this travel bag is its design with a separate laptop sleeve. Thus, if you want to work on your projects on the top of the mountain, you can do that pretty effortlessly. But it doesn’t come with a key ring clip, which is a bit off-putting.
This backpack is available in different sizes, and the heavy-duty polyester ensures you’re getting a greater value for money. And you can also buy a backpack set with an organizer cube, making things more convenient than we can imagine!
PROS
CONS
Verdict
The Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack is a backpack for women where style meets functionality and comes within everyone’s affordability. So, if you want something for regular use, we think this offering will be a handy one!
3. Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Backpack
The Osprey Fairview 40 is one of the best backpacks for women for many reasons. From its duffle-style opening to heavy-duty zippered pockets, it offers every feature you can expect from a high-end knapsack.
Thanks to its huge main compartment, you can pack all your essentials without hassle. Everything will be well-protected in this perfect storage, from your hairdryer to camera gear.
On top of everything, this nylon travel backpack has separate water bottle pockets in the front. Thus, you don’t have to go through your belongings when you’re thirsty. And it also has scratch-resistant pockets for your phones and glasses, which is pretty praiseworthy.
The padded laptop sleeve has a locking feature; thus, valuables will be well protected. Besides, the compartment easily fits a 15-inch laptop, and that’s something impressive. Hence, this one gets the top marks when it comes to efficient travel backpacks for women.
And we liked the size choices they offer. They come in sizes that are acceptable by most airlines. But the color options could be better; at least, we felt that way.
This backpack has everything to offer a user-friendly service for any traveling woman out there, from a padded hip belt to comfortable shoulder straps. So, when seeking a duffel bag backpack for air travel, consider this one for an optimal experience.
PROS
CONS
Verdict
If you want to get a women’s backpack with lockable zippers for better security, you can take a look at this one. But it doesn’t offer many vibrant colors, which is a bummer.
4. WITZMAN Travel Backpack
When it’s not just shorter trips but an extended vacation, you’ll surely need a heavy-duty carry-on backpack. And in that case, this knapsack by WITZMAN will be your perfect companion.
This unisex backpack features a convertible design, meaning you can turn it into a travel duffel bag, shoulder, or crossbody bag. Therefore, if you want greater value for your money, this one is the right backpack for you!
On top of everything, it is made with high-quality canvas with soft leather. Moreover, the nylon lining makes sure that your belongings are well-protected. Once you look at it, you will know it is built to last.
The bag is designed with multiple pockets and two large compartments. Therefore, storing your travel essentials will be super easy. And the main compartment has a padded laptop compartment to keep your gadgets safe, and that’s pretty admirable.
From your hairdryer to your hoodie, everything will perfectly fit into this knapsack. Furthermore, you will have a bottle compartment for carrying your books or an extra pair of shoes; whatever you prefer.
And if you are done with traveling, just roll it up and keep it in your cupboard until you plan your next trip.
When it comes to women’s backpacks, you should carefully check the weight distribution management. And this carry-on luggage has earned top marks in that field.
It comes with a comfortably cushioned backpack; thus, your posture won’t be pressurized. This way, you won’t have to worry about annoying shoulder pain at all!
Women, who don’t travel light, can choose this backpack to stay tension-free. You don’t have to leave your favorite things at home just because it doesn’t fit into the rucksack. Isn’t that amazing?
PROS
CONS
Verdict
This backpack is a military-grade product; thus, you can use it for years without any damages. And it is super stylish as well, which makes this thing a pretty sweet deal!
5. Osprey Aura AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack
The moment w saw this women’s backpack, we loved it for its minimalist design. There’s no flashy pocket or vibrant pattern; it is really a sight for sore eyes!
Thanks to its anti-gravity suspension design, the Osprey Aura AG is one of the best women’s backpacks for hiking. When you’re climbing a mountain with this backpack on your shoulder, you won’t feel any excessive weight at all.
And that’s amazing news for all the avid travelers out there.
Like most osprey backpacks, it is designed with a hip belt; you can adjust the backpack on your body according to your posture. Additionally, the zippered top lid pockets make it easy to access, another outstanding feature I’ve discovered in this top-loading hiking backpack.
This backpack comes with external compression straps to stabilize the weight and maintain a streamlined profile. Moreover, you can keep your phone or GPS in the zippered waist pocket and the water bottles in the side mesh pocket without any struggle.
There is a separate compartment for a sleeping bag in this backpack. And for this feature, this is one of the best hiking backpacks, in our opinion.
PROS
CONS
Verdict
This backpack is perfect for any trip, short weekend trip or extended trips, hiking or trekking. So, if you are a passionate traveler, consider getting this one for a breezy experience.
6. Thule Landmark Travel Backpack
Thule is a legend in the world of travel bags, but you already know that. And this women’s backpack is one of their most impressive creations; let us tell you why.
Firstly, it comes with a surprisingly lightweight construction. In this way, you don’t have to throw your backpack out when planning to pack more clothes than usual. And it is available in many sizes, so pick the one that suits your needs.
This travel backpack is available in four solid colors, and the design is pretty minimalist. And there’s also a zippered cover to keep your essentials protected when you have to leave your backpack alone for a while.
One of the best features of this women’s travel backpack is its detachable daypack with a 20L capacity. You can carry your shampoo, body wash, or any food items separately. So yes, this is undoubtedly one of the best women’s travel backpacks out there.
Women’s safety is one of the most significant issues while traveling. And to protect you from any harm, these travel backpacks come with a safety whistle on the sternum belt, so you can call for help when in distress. Besides, a secret cash stash in the internal compartment makes it the ultimate backpack for women.
This travel bag comes with hip belts and adjustable straps to snuggle your womanly posture. In this way, the knapsack will feel like a part of your body, not a burden.
Another commendable thing we learned about this backpack is that it offers luggage-style organization and laptop compartments. Hence, this backpack will be your best buddy for more storage space.
PROS
CONS
Verdict
This product by Thule is one of the best travel backpacks for women for its safety features. And it’s water-resistant too, which is a bonus addition, don’t you think?
7. Tortuga Women’s Setout Carry on Backpacks
So, we will end things between us with this carry-on luggage by Tortuga. This knapsack has super large compartments and excellent weight distribution to make it women-friendly. Well, let’s get to know it better.
Some carry on travel backpacks don’t give us enough space for packing. But this one is totally stunning as you can store a week’s clothing and essentials into it. Moreover, it offers you a luggage-style organization, making it more user-friendly.
The backpack straps are vital in keeping your shoulder and back stress-free. And this is one of those travel backpacks with a cushioned hip belt that reduces the weight from your shoulder and balances it on your waist.
Well, you can remove the waist belts whenever you want, and that’s really praiseworthy. But you may need packing cubes while organizing your things; otherwise, the backpack’s look will be a little funny!
Thanks to the injection-molded shoulder strap, you will never feel stressed when trekking or hiking. Additionally, it is made with a suspension fitting system. Therefore, women with narrow shoulders can easily take this on their trekking trip.
Besides having multiple pockets, this large carry-on backpack is made with a separate laptop compartment. So, check this out when you want the best trekking backpack for women.
PROS
CONS
Verdict
When you have to carry many things but don’t want to suffer from body aches, this is one of the best travel backpacks for you. And this thing is made to last longer than you can imagine, which makes everything peachier!
The Bottom Line
Well, here are our reviews on the top women-friendly backpacks on the market right now. But if you’re still confused, let me make things easier.
For an overall experience, go for the Venture Pal Backpack Daypack. It is super lightweight yet robust, offers you several internal pockets as well as exterior ones. So when it comes to the best travel backpack for women, we’d tap that.
And also take a look at the Thule Landmark Travel Backpack when you’re planning to explore the dark alley, it will allow you to stay safe in unfavorable circumstances.
More Tips For Choosing a Travel Backpack
When looking for a backpack, you should consider what you’re going to be using it for. Different backpacks have different uses and purposes so it’s important to choose the right one so that it doesn’t fall apart on your trip. It is also important to know how much you want to spend and how big you want it to be as there are many different brands and types with different prices.
Traveling with a good backpack is important because it will make your trip more enjoyable since you’ll have all your belongings securely with you throughout the journey.
The most important thing to look for when choosing a backpack is how much you’re willing to spend. Prices range from $25 – $500 depending on what brand and type of backpack it is, so having a set budget before shopping around will help narrow down your search and make it easier for you to choose the right one.
Once you decide how much you want to spend, the next thing to look out for when choosing a backpack is the build. A strong nylon or polyester build is important because it not only protects your belongings but also makes the backpack last longer.
When looking for a travel backpack, you should keep in mind how big you want it to be. Travel backpacks range from 15-45 liters which can fit all of your belongings for a short 1-2 day trip. For longer trips, 40-60 liters are good because they fit large amounts of items but are also lightweight enough to carry around.
It’s important to look at different brands and types before making your choice because there are so many choices out there it could be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. While some brands and styles will fit certain needs better than others, it’s best to choose how you want it to look and feel rather than the brand name. There are many cheap brands out there that offer great quality, so don’t be fooled by price tags.
When choosing a backpack, there’s really no wrong choice as long as what you choose is right for your need(s). Make sure you check all the features of each backpack before making your decision.
Hopefully, this article helped you to find a travel backpack that works for YOU.
Tips For Packing Your Travel Backpack
When packing your travel backpack, you should divide your belongings into 3 different categories:
- Clothes and shoes
- Bags/packaging
- Electronics and valuables (phone, wallet, passport)
When it comes to clothes and shoes, the best way to pack them is byrolling them up . This will save a lot of space and also prevents the clothes from getting crushed or wrinkled.
For bags and packaging, you can use packing cubes or stuff sacks to help separate your items and keep them organized.
For electronics and valuables, you can use a travel backpack with a lockable zipper to secure your belongings at all times. This will prevent others from taking your things without permission or going through them when you’re not around. It’s also a good idea to use a wallet with a built-in RFID blocker because there’s always the risk of pickpocketing.
When you’re done packing your bag, it is important to remember that space and weight are the two biggest factors when traveling with a backpack. If you want to carry as little as possible, make sure you distribute the weight evenly and pack only what’s necessary. This will reduce stress on your back and help prevent pain.
Also, remember to leave a little bit of a gap between the main compartment and zipper when packing your bag. This ensures that there is enough room for your items to expand without the risk of them getting crushed or broken.
Once you’re ready to pack, be sure to test it out with some additional weight in case the backpack you want doesn’t already have some in it.
If you choose a bag that has an aluminum frame or is adjustable, then it should be fine to use without any additional weight inside of the bag.
Some final tips for choosing and using your backpack:
- Make sure your pack fits properly by checking out our article on how to choose the right backpack
- If you want a lightweight bag, try looking for bags that have ripstop nylon or carbon fiber.
- If durability is your priority, then go for polyester and ballistic nylon as long as it’s not overkilled (i.e.; excessive padding).
- Lastly, if comfort is what you’re looking for, then look for ergonomic designs that distribute the weight well.
- The best way to test your backpack is to try it out by wearing it around the house or in a store. If there are no testers available, make sure you feel each pack’s straps and back area before you purchase it.