Planning your dream backpacking adventure across Europe? One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is selecting the perfect Euro Backpacking Trip Bag. It’s your home on your back, your trusty companion through bustling train stations, charming cobblestone streets, and cozy hostels. Choosing the right bag can make or break your trip, impacting your comfort, mobility, and overall enjoyment.
Having explored Europe countless times myself and as part of the Travel Lemming team, rigorously testing travel gear, I understand the importance of a reliable and functional backpack. We’ve put numerous backpacks through their paces to bring you this expert guide to the best euro backpacking trip bags available today.
While a single bag might seem appealing for minimalist travel, I generally recommend a combination of a larger main backpack and a smaller daypack for optimal flexibility and organization. This guide will first delve into the top 8 main travel backpacks we’ve personally tested, ideal for your primary luggage needs. Following that, we’ll explore 4 excellent daypacks that perfectly complement your main bag, enhancing your daily explorations.
| If you want … | Go for … | Carry On Compliant? |
|---|---|---|
| Top Pick Overall | Tortuga Travel Backpack | Yes |
| Supreme Comfort | Salkan Carry On | Yes |
| Budget-Friendly Choice | Osprey Sojourn Porter | Yes |
| Spacious & Rugged Style | The Backpacker by Salkan | No |
| Stylish Color Options | Topo Designs Global Travel Bag | If packed lightly |
| Maximum Packing Capacity | Osprey Farpoint 55L | No |
| Digital Nomad Ready | Nomatic Travel Backpack | Yes |
| Premium Material Feel | Peak Design Travel Backpack | Yes |
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Top 8 Euro Backpacking Trip Bags: Main Backpacks Compared
Short on time? Here’s a quick rundown of the best large travel backpacks for your euro backpacking trip, compared in detail below:
Best Overall Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Tortuga Travel Backpack
If avoiding checked baggage fees is your priority, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is designed specifically for you. Engineered to maximize carry-on dimensions while offering exceptional comfort and space, it’s the ideal single-bag solution for savvy travelers exploring Europe.
Read Our Detailed Review
Stylish Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Salkan Carry-On Bag
For a versatile bag that transitions seamlessly from hiking trails to hostel dorms, the Salkan Carry-On is a top contender. This carry-on compliant backpack boasts a unique and stylish design, comfortable padding, and ample space, all while helping you avoid those pesky baggage fees. Our reviewer Abigail raves about it as her new favorite travel companion.
Read Our Detailed Review
Best Budget Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Stock image of the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L, a durable and affordable option
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L
My personal travel companion for over 60 countries, the Osprey Sojourn Porter has proven its durability and timeless design. Backed by Osprey’s renowned “All Mighty Guarantee,” this bag is a common sight in European hostels for good reason. If you’re on a budget but unwilling to compromise on quality for your euro backpacking trip bag, the Osprey Sojourn Porter is an excellent choice.
Most Comfortable Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
The Backpacker by Salkan
Currently my go-to bag, The Backpacker by Salkan, stands out as the most comfortable backpack I’ve encountered. The exceptional strap design and weight distribution system make it feel incredibly light, even when fully loaded. The dual front and top-loading access and customizable colors are added bonuses.
Read Our Detailed Review
Best Organized Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Stock image of the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag, emphasizing its organization features
Topo Designs Global Travel Bag
If meticulous organization is your travel style, the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag is your ideal euro backpacking trip bag. Packed with pockets and compartments, including a dedicated laptop section, this bag keeps everything in its place. Comfortable straps and a robust hip belt ensure easy carrying, even when fully loaded.
Largest Capacity Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Stock image of the Osprey Farpoint 55L, highlighting its spacious design
Osprey Farpoint 55L
For travelers who prefer to pack more, the Osprey Farpoint 55L offers ample space for your euro backpacking trip. While I advocate for traveling light, if extra room is essential, this is the best large travel backpack for Europe. Available in both men’s and women’s versions, and backed by Osprey’s lifetime guarantee, it’s a reliable choice for extended trips.
Best Euro Backpacking Trip Bag for Digital Nomads
Stock image of the Nomatic Travel Backpack, highlighting its tech-friendly features
Nomatic Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Travel Backpack has taken the digital nomad scene by storm, and for good reason. Packed with innovative features designed for remote work and organization, this carry-on size bag is perfect for tech-savvy travelers exploring Europe.
High-Quality All-Around Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Stock image of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, emphasizing its sleek design
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
The Peak Design Travel Backpack offers an excellent combination of structure, organization, and space for your euro backpacking trip. Its highly durable material ensures it can withstand the rigors of travel. While color options are limited, its overall performance is exceptional.
Now, let’s delve deeper into each of these top euro backpacking trip bags for a more comprehensive understanding:
#1 – Tortuga Travel Backpack
Best Euro Backpacking Trip Bag for Carry-On Travel
Tortuga Travel Backpack
Specifically designed for carry-on travel, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is your best bet for avoiding checked baggage fees on your euro backpacking trip. Tortuga prioritized maximizing space and comfort within carry-on dimensions, creating a single-bag solution perfect for navigating European travel.
Read Our Detailed Review
Pros:
- Maximum Carry-On Space: Designed to maximize packing space while remaining carry-on compliant.
- Exceptional Comfort: Comfortable even when fully packed, thanks to ample padding and a weight-distributing harness system.
- Eco-Conscious Materials: Made with environmentally friendly materials.
- Lightweight and Durable: Strikes a balance between lightweight design and robust durability.
- Worldwide Warranty: Backed by Tortuga’s comprehensive warranty.
Cons:
- Simple Aesthetic: May lack the visual flair some travelers prefer.
- No Built-in Lock: Requires a separate lock for added security.
Tortuga Travel Backpack In-Depth Review
Abigail demonstrates the adjustable harness system of the Tortuga Travel Backpack, ensuring a comfortable fit for various body types.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack, launched in early 2023, is a standout model for travelers aiming for a streamlined, single-bag travel experience across Europe.
Abigail conducted a hands-on review, highlighting the pros and cons of Tortuga’s latest offering:
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Bypass Baggage Fees: The primary advantage of the Tortuga Travel Backpack is its focus on carry-on compliance without sacrificing packing capacity. Abigail successfully packed a week’s worth of clothing and travel essentials within its confines during testing.
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Comfort Under Load: Many backpacks feel comfortable until fully packed. The Tortuga Travel Backpack excels here, featuring substantial padding and an innovative harness designed to distribute weight effectively. Abigail found it remained comfortable even when maximized to its capacity.
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Effortless Packing: The front-loading design of the Tortuga Travel Backpack simplifies both packing and unpacking. A convenient front panel pocket offers quick access to essentials like passports and travel documents.
In conclusion, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is an excellent choice for “one-bag” travelers seeking to avoid checked baggage fees on their euro backpacking trip. For an in-depth analysis, explore Abigail’s comprehensive Tortuga Travel Backpack review.
#2 – Salkan Carry On Backpack
Most Stylish Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Salkan Carry-On Bag
For a euro backpacking trip bag that blends urban style with outdoor readiness, the Salkan Carry-On is a compelling option. Salkan’s new carry-on compliant model offers a trendy and unique aesthetic, comfortable padding for city exploration, and ample space for your essentials while adhering to carry-on restrictions. Our reviewer Abigail now considers it her top travel bag choice.
Read Our Detailed Review
Pros:
- Carry-On Compliant Dimensions: Designed to meet carry-on size restrictions.
- Stylish Urban/Outdoor Design: A versatile look suitable for both cityscapes and nature trails.
- Comfortable and Durable: Balances comfortable padding with a robust exterior.
- Recycled Materials: Made with eco-friendly recycled materials.
- Lifetime Warranty & Trial Period: Offers a lifetime warranty and a 100-day risk-free trial.
Cons:
- Padding vs. Packing Space: Extensive padding might reduce maximum packing space if used as a single bag.
- Hip Belt Fit: The hip belt might not be ideal for travelers with smaller frames.
Salkan Carry-on Backpack In-Depth Review
Salkan, a boutique company founded by seasoned backpackers, recently introduced their carry-on model in summer 2024. Abigail’s review after testing the bag highlights its impressive features.
This backpack is a strong contender for light packers prioritizing comfort and style while navigating Europe with a single carry-on bag.
The generous padding ensures exceptional comfort while carrying.
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Distinctive Outdoor Style: The Salkan Carry-On bridges the gap between a dedicated travel backpack and an outdoors-oriented backpack. This aesthetic is perfect if your European itinerary includes hiking or outdoor adventures.
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Smart Organization: Despite being a carry-on bag, it offers thoughtful organizational features: lid storage, front storage, internal mesh pocket, laptop sleeve, dual side pockets, bottom gear loop, integrated rain cover, hip belt pockets, side pockets, tall back pocket, and a hidden security pocket for valuables.
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Eco-Friendly Construction: Salkan’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the use of recycled materials.
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Designed for Comfortable Carry: The inclusion of a hip belt and substantial padding enhances carrying comfort. However, Abigail noted that the hip belt was almost too large for her petite frame.
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Risk-Free Purchase: The lifetime warranty and 100-day trial period minimize purchase risk, allowing you to test the bag worry-free.
#3 – Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L Backpack
Classic and Reliable Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Stock image of the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L, a durable and affordable option
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L
Having personally used a prior model across 60+ countries over a decade of travel, the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L stands as a testament to enduring quality. Its timeless design, robust construction, and Osprey’s legendary “All Mighty Guarantee” make it a popular and reliable euro backpacking trip bag frequently seen in hostels throughout Europe. For budget-conscious travelers who prioritize quality, the Osprey Sojourn Porter is a solid investment.
Pros:
- Duffel Conversion: Versatile design allows conversion to a duffel bag.
- Lightweight & Simple: Lightweight construction with a straightforward, uncluttered design.
- Spacious Main Compartment: Single main compartment maximizes packing space for clothing.
- Excellent Value: Offers a great balance of quality and affordability.
- Carry-On Size: Generally carry-on compliant for most airlines.
- Color Variety: Available in multiple color options.
- Lifetime Guarantee: Backed by Osprey’s industry-leading lifetime warranty.
Cons:
- Minimal Shoulder Strap Padding: Stowaway straps prioritize compactness over extensive padding.
- Limited Pockets: Features only a few pockets beyond the main compartment.
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L In-Depth Review
The Osprey 46L Sojourn Porter is the latest iteration of the travel backpack that accompanied me across 60 countries and 6 continents over a decade of adventures.
This bag has endured significant wear and tear – even an accidental dip in the Amazon River! It’s a robust and dependable euro backpacking trip bag that has consistently proven its resilience. If reliability is paramount, the Sojourn Porter is an excellent choice.
For ultra-light carry-on travel, consider the 30-liter version of the Sojourn Porter. Taylor’s Osprey Sojourn Porter 30 review provides further insights.
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Pros We Love: The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L’s enduring popularity stems from its affordability and ideal size for backpacking across Europe. It features stowable shoulder straps and a waist belt for backpack-style carry, while also converting to a duffel. Its streamlined profile makes it one of the best carry-on backpacks in this guide.
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Professional Packing: The Osprey Sojourn Porter’s large, front-loading main compartment simplifies packing. Compression straps help maintain a compact profile, often allowing it to meet carry-on size restrictions (when not overfilled).
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Duffel Versatility: The backpack-to-duffel conversion adds versatility, enabling you to carry it like a carry-on suitcase. The trade-off is slightly less padded shoulder straps.
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Stylish and Understated: In my opinion (owning the black version), it presents a stylish and less overtly “backpacker” aesthetic compared to some alternatives.
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Unmatched Lifetime Guarantee: Osprey’s lifetime guarantee is a major selling point. They stand by their products, offering repairs for any bag, regardless of age or reason for damage.
#4 – The Backpacker by Salkan
My Current Favorite Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
The Backpacker by Salkan
Salkan’s larger offering, The Backpacker, is my current top pick for euro backpacking trip bags due to its unparalleled comfort. The straps and weight distribution are so effective, it feels remarkably light even when fully packed. The combination of front and top-loading access, along with customizable colors, further enhances its appeal.
Read Our Detailed Review
Pros:
- Dual Loading Options: Offers both front and top-loading access for versatile packing and access.
- Superior Comfort: The most comfortable backpack I’ve tested, with an exceptional harness system for weight distribution.
- Thoughtful Features: Includes practical additions like a flight cover and rain cover.
- Daypack Bundle Option: Available as a bundle with Salkan’s stylish daypack (Backpacker bundle).
- Free Shipping & Returns: Offers free shipping and returns for customer convenience.
Cons:
- Slightly Exceeds Carry-On Size: Technically slightly larger than typical carry-on limits (though I have personally carried it on flights without issue).
Salkan Backpacker In-Depth Review
Pictured with my Salkan Backpacker, emphasizing its ease of carrying even for extended periods.
Having tested over a dozen travel backpacks, Salkan’s The Backpacker has become my preferred choice for recent trips. Here’s what I appreciate about this euro backpacking trip bag, and considerations for whether it’s right for you:
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Versatile Design: The Salkan Backpacker excels as both a travel backpack and a backpacking backpack. The padded carry system makes it suitable for day hikes, while its stylish design and practical organization features are ideal for European train travel.
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Front & Top Loading Flexibility: The front-loading vs. top-loading debate is resolved with the Salkan Backpacker. It’s the only bag I’ve encountered offering both, providing the organizational benefits of front-loading and the convenience of top-loading access in tighter spaces like hostel dorms.
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Ideal Daypack Combination: The Backpacker bundle includes a detachable daypack, perfect as an under-seat personal item, laptop bag, or for daily excursions in European cities.
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Built to Last with Lifetime Guarantee: Salkan bags are built with evident quality materials. While I anticipate its durability, the lifetime guarantee provides added peace of mind.
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Convenient Shipping & Returns (USA): Despite Salkan being a British company, they offer free shipping to the USA with quick delivery. Free returns are also available if the Backpacker doesn’t meet your needs.
For a deeper dive into its features, read my full review of the Salkan backpack.
#5 – Topo Designs Global Travel Bag
Best Euro Backpacking Trip Bag for Organization
Stock image of the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag, emphasizing its organization features
Topo Designs Global Travel Bag
For meticulously organized travelers, the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag is the ideal euro backpacking trip bag. Its numerous pockets and compartments, including a laptop sleeve, ensure everything has its designated place. Comfortable straps and a supportive hip belt make it easy to carry, even when fully packed with gear.
Pros:
- Exceptional Organization: Boasts a multitude of pockets and compartments for organized packing.
- Dedicated Laptop Compartment: Includes a padded and secure laptop compartment.
- Comfortable Carry: Features comfortable straps and a supportive hip belt for heavier loads.
- High-Quality & Durable Materials: Constructed with durable, premium-feel materials.
Cons:
- Carry-On Size (Overstuffed): May exceed carry-on dimensions if packed to maximum capacity.
- Bulkiness: Can feel somewhat bulky when fully packed.
Topo Designs Global Travel Bag In-Depth Review
The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag offers a built-in organization system, akin to integrated packing cubes, for effortless organization.
Travel Lemming writer Sky recently reviewed the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag during an extended trip to Portugal and was particularly impressed by its organizational prowess.
If you prioritize a place for everything, the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag is purpose-built for you.
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Abundant Pocket Options: This backpack features a plethora of pockets and compartments, facilitating a highly efficient packing system. It even includes a dedicated water bottle pocket.
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Suitcase-Style Main Access: The main compartment unzips fully like a suitcase, simplifying packing and unpacking at your accommodation.
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Adaptable Carry System: Carry it as a backpack using the shoulder and hip harness system or convert it to a briefcase-style duffel bag.
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Premium Construction: Sky was particularly impressed by the high-quality and durable construction, ensuring long-lasting performance.
#6 – Osprey Farpoint 55
Best Large Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Stock image of the Osprey Farpoint 55L, highlighting its spacious design
Osprey Farpoint 55L
If you’re not a light packer, consider the Osprey Farpoint 55L as your euro backpacking trip bag. It offers significantly more space than the Sojourn Porter. Available in men’s and women’s specific fits and backed by Osprey’s lifetime guarantee, it’s a reliable choice for those needing extra capacity.
Pros:
- Generous Capacity: Offers substantial packing space for longer trips or bulkier items.
- Functional and Practical Design: Prioritizes practicality and ease of use.
- Good Value for Money: Provides a solid balance of price and quality.
- Osprey Lifetime Guarantee: Backed by Osprey’s renowned lifetime warranty.
Cons:
- Heavier Weight: Naturally heavier due to its larger size and robust construction.
- Limited Pockets: Primarily features one large main compartment.
- Not Carry-On Compliant: Exceeds standard carry-on size restrictions.
Osprey Farpoint 55 In-Depth Review
For those needing extra packing room, the Osprey Farpoint 55 is a worthwhile upgrade from the Sojourn Porter.
Sky’s detailed Osprey Farpoint 55 review offers a comprehensive look, but here’s a quick summary:
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Ample Space: The Farpoint 55 provides nearly 10 liters of additional space, accommodating extra clothing, shoes, or other travel necessities. The robust hip and harness system ensures comfortable carrying of heavier loads.
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Need Even More Capacity? Osprey also offers a 70-liter version for truly extended trips or heavy packers.
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Popular Choice: The Farpoint 55 is a widely recognized and trusted backpack for European travel. Its popularity in hostels across the continent is a testament to its suitability as a euro backpacking trip bag. Consider adding a unique tag to easily identify yours!
#7 – The Nomatic Travel Backpack
Best Euro Backpacking Trip Bag for Digital Nomads
Stock image of the Nomatic Travel Backpack, highlighting its tech-friendly features
Nomatic Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Travel Backpack has gained viral popularity within the digital nomad community for valid reasons. Its innovative features cater to remote workers and organization enthusiasts alike. With thoughtful storage for all your essentials, it remains carry-on compliant, making it an excellent euro backpacking trip bag for digital nomads.
Pros:
- Digital Nomad Focus: Specifically designed for digital nomads and remote workers with tech organization in mind.
- Superior Organization Features: Offers the most comprehensive organization of all bags tested.
- Expandable Size: Expands from 20L to 30L for adaptable capacity.
- Clamshell Opening: Splits open centrally for easy packing and access.
- Sleek & Professional Design: Simple, sleek aesthetics with high-quality construction.
Cons:
- Smaller Capacity: May be too small as a sole bag for heavier packers.
The Nomatic Travel Backpack In-Depth Review
Testing the Nomatic Travel Backpack, appreciating its organization and features for digital nomads.
I was impressed by the organizational capabilities of the Nomatic Travel Bag and considered it for my recent trip, ultimately opting for a larger capacity. However, for light packers or those using a two-bag system, it’s an exceptional option.
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Designed for Digital Nomads: Its viral success in the digital nomad community is well-deserved. The bag excels at organizing tech gear, with numerous pockets and sleeves for easy access to items on the go.
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Adaptable Carry-On Size: The Nomatic Travel Backpack’s expandable design, from 20L to 30L, provides versatility. Expand it for air travel and compress it for daily use at co-working spaces or cafes.
#8 – Peak Design Travel Backpack
Another Excellent All-Around Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Stock image of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, emphasizing its sleek design
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offers a compelling blend of structure, organization, and capacity for your euro backpacking trip. Its highly durable material and thoughtful design make it a strong contender. The limited color options are a minor drawback for an otherwise exceptional bag.
Pros:
- Solid Organization: Offers good organization with multiple compartments and pockets.
- Highly Durable Exterior: Built with a robust and durable exterior material.
- Soft & Durable Interior: Combines soft, stretchy, yet durable interior materials.
- Comfortable Straps: Features comfortable, adjustable, and padded shoulder straps.
Cons:
- Limited Color Options: Available in only a few color choices.
- Stock Availability: May occasionally be out of stock.
- Potential Bulkiness: Can feel bulky when overpacked.
Peak Design Travel Backpack In-Depth Review
Lea Rose, our writer, reviewed the 45L Peak Design Travel Backpack after extensive testing during her backpacking trip through Spain and Portugal. Lea Rose was highly satisfied with the bag’s performance.
While offering limited color choices, the Peak Design Travel Backpack stands out for its organizational features and durable yet soft material.
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Zippered Pocket Compartment: A key feature is the front zippered compartment with four separate zippered pockets (two mesh, two enclosed), plus additional pockets for smaller items.
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Dividing Panel with Dual Access: Peak Design’s organizational expertise is evident in the dual-access dividing panel, which helps organize the main compartment or can be stowed away if not needed.
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Stowable Straps: The magnetic flap on the back panel allows for easy stowage of shoulder and hip straps, offering versatile carrying options.
Top 4 Euro Backpacking Trip Daypacks
Most backpackers in Europe opt for a daypack or laptop bag in addition to their main euro backpacking trip bag. A daypack is invaluable for carrying essentials like cameras and valuables during daily explorations.
A daypack also provides extra packing capacity for carry-on travel, as it typically qualifies as a personal item and fits under the airplane seat.
Here are our top 4 daypack recommendations for your European adventure:
Nomatic Navigator Lite
Best Everyday Carry Daypack for Europe
Nomatic Navigator Lite
The Nomatic Navigator Lite is a lightweight and durable everyday carry bag, ideal for minimalists who value organization. Comfortable, durable, and premium, this daypack is perfect for both travel and daily use.
The Nomatic Navigator Lite series features some of the newest and most innovative travel daypacks. Travel Lemming writer Abigail recently tested this backpack and shared her insights in her Nomatic Navigator backpack review. Here’s why we consider it the best all-around everyday carry bag:
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Stylish and Versatile: Investing in the Nomatic Navigator Lite means acquiring a daypack that is equally functional for your European travels and everyday life back home – commuting, school, or work.
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Optimal Organization: This daypack strikes a balance between providing sufficient organization without overwhelming you with excessive compartments.
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Smart Features: Nomatic has incorporated numerous practical features, including a charging cord slot, a concealed water bottle pocket, and a luggage passthrough strap.
Tortuga Laptop Bag
Best Laptop Personal Item for Euro Trips
Tortuga Laptop Bag
The Tortuga Laptop Bag is the perfect “personal item” bag for keeping your laptop and other essentials secure and accessible during your euro backpacking trip. It combines robust construction, thoughtful organization, and ideal capacity.
Tortuga’s consistent excellence in “main” backpacks at Travel Lemming made us excited for the Tortuga laptop bag. My partner Clara, who currently uses this bag, highly recommends it:
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Excellent Organization: True to the Tortuga brand, this bag offers exceptional organization with numerous pockets and compartments for smaller items like keys, passports, or chargers.
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Ultra-Comfortable Straps: Laptop bags often spend extended periods on your shoulders, and laptops can be heavy. Clara appreciates the super-comfortable padding of this bag.
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Versatile as a Solo Bag: While designed as an under-seat “personal item,” it offers enough space to function as a single bag for shorter trips. For a long weekend getaway, the Tortuga laptop bag could suffice as your only luggage.
Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
Best Value Daypack for Euro Backpacking
Stock image of the Osprey Daylite Daypack, highlighting its compact and affordable design
Osprey Daylite Daypack
The Osprey Daylite Daypack is a trusty and affordable daypack that has accompanied me to over 50 countries. For its price point, it offers unmatched value. Solid construction, a wide array of colors, and practical compartments make it a remarkably affordable and reliable choice.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Osprey Daylite Daypack, having used it across 50+ countries. It’s a simple yet highly effective daypack.
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Lightweight & Feature-Rich: At 13 liters, it’s perfectly sized for carrying a camera and other essentials (I even fit my drone!). Lightweight and comfortable, it also features a small hip strap for added stability.
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Osprey Integration: It seamlessly integrates with my main Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 backpack via Osprey’s proprietary locking system, allowing you to attach and carry both bags as one unit!
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Lifetime Guarantee: Consistent with Osprey’s reputation, the Daylite daypack also includes their exceptional lifetime guarantee.
Salkan Daypack
Best Daypack and Laptop Bag Combo for Europe
The Daypack Backpack | Salkan
Currently my personal choice, the Salkan Daypack combines a padded laptop sleeve with the perfect size and functionality for day trips. It’s an ideal combination for euro backpacking!
If you’re torn between a laptop bag and a traditional daypack, the Salkan Daypack offers the best of both worlds. It’s included in the Salkan Backpacker bundle but can also be purchased separately. Based on my personal experience, it’s an excellent daypack choice for European travel.
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Laptop & Day Trip Ready: I use daypacks for two primary purposes: carrying my laptop and flight essentials, and as a utility bag for day trips to carry towels, umbrellas, and other basics. The Salkan Daypack excels in both roles.
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Stylish Aesthetic: Beyond its functionality, the Salkan Daypack has a distinct and stylish look.
Why Trust Our Euro Backpacking Trip Bag Recommendations?
With my trusty Osprey 46L – my companion across 60+ countries, showcasing real-world travel experience.
Who am I, and why should you trust my recommendations for the best euro backpacking trip bag?
I’m Nate Hake, a full-time traveler since 2016.
My life is literally packed into a backpack and a daypack.
The photo above shows me in Amsterdam with my 46L Osprey Sojourn Porter. I’m also an experienced European traveler, having visited nearly every country on the continent and backpacking through Europe almost every summer. (If you’re feeling wanderlust, check out my list of the best places to backpack in Europe and our comprehensive guide to Backpacking Europe).
Through my extensive travels, I’ve learned that a quality travel backpack is your best ally when exploring Europe.
Let’s explore key tips for choosing the right euro backpacking trip bag.
4 Essential Tips for Choosing Your Euro Backpacking Trip Bag
Here are key considerations to look for when choosing a backpack for your euro backpacking trip.
While these tips are broadly applicable, some are particularly relevant to backpacking in Europe:
#1 – Prioritize Size and Capacity
A size comparison of the Salkan Backpacker, Nomatic Travel Backpack, and Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L side-by-side.
Determining the appropriate luggage capacity is paramount. I strongly advise aiming for the smallest possible bag size. You’ll be carrying your euro backpacking trip bag frequently, so minimizing weight enhances comfort and mobility.
Benefits of smaller bags:
- Avoid Checked Bag Fees: Carry-on sized bags eliminate checked baggage fees, especially on European budget airlines like Ryanair.
- Train & Hostel Convenience: Smaller bags fit more easily into train overhead compartments and smaller hostel lockers.
- Respect Hostel Space: Avoid being the backpacker with an oversized bag hogging dorm room space.
What about laundry?
Fortunately, laundry services are readily available and affordable throughout Europe. Most hostels offer laundry facilities or services, or you’ll find laundromats nearby. Alternatively, consider carrying a Scruba laundry bag for quick washes in your accommodation.
Pack light and plan for occasional laundry stops!
Travel Backpack Size Note:
Size is typically measured in liters (L). For context:
My main travel bag, featured in the Amsterdam photo, is a 46-liter backpack, which I consider the maximum size for carry-on compliance.
Keep in mind my height (very tall) when judging bag size in photos – it may appear larger on me.
#2 – Prioritize Comfort and Fit
Travel Lemming editor Lea Rose demonstrates the hip belt of the Peak Design bag, crucial for comfortable weight distribution.
Comfort is crucial, as you’ll be carrying your euro backpacking trip bag frequently. Finding a bag that fits your body comfortably is essential.
A hip strap significantly aids in weight distribution.
If you haven’t used a hip strap before, it may initially feel unusual, but it effectively transfers weight from your shoulders to your hips. Your shoulders will thank you for utilizing this feature!
However, European backpacking differs from trekking in Nepal or Patagonia.
You’ll rarely carry your bag for more than a kilometer at a time. Expensive, bulky hiking backpacks are unnecessary. True “backpacking backpacks” are often top-loading with extensive comfort features like padded hip belts and complex suspension systems, which are overkill for most European travel scenarios.
#3 – Don’t Compromise Durability for Price
Hostels are often filled with backpackers using bags with tears, ripped straps, or generally worn-out appearances.
Backpacks endure significant wear and tear. Investing in a reputable brand known for durability is crucial. Even on a budget euro backpacking trip, a longer-lasting backpack saves money in the long run.
Consider backpacks with warranties or guarantees, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability.
#4 – Consider Features, But Don’t Overthink Them
Traditional hiking backpacks have numerous pockets and a top-loading main compartment.
Some travelers prefer this for organization – dedicating pockets for toiletries, clothing categories, etc.
Personally, I find excessive pockets restrictive and prefer fewer, larger pockets for greater versatility and easier packing.
Some backpacks include built-in waterproof covers.
While helpful, I don’t consider this essential for European travel.
Rain is common, but shelter is usually readily available (Europe isn’t Patagonia!).
Don’t overanalyze minor features like pocket count. Focus on size, comfort, and durability when choosing your euro backpacking trip bag. Packing solutions adapt to most bag designs.
FAQs: Euro Backpacking Trip Bags
Exploring the Coliseum in Rome, showcasing European travel experiences and the need for a reliable backpack.
What is a good backpack for traveling Europe?
Our top recommendations for euro backpacking trip bags are the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 L and the Salkan Backpacker. Both are excellent for European travel, with the Salkan offering more space and the Sojourn Porter prioritizing carry-on compliance.
Is it better to travel with a backpack or suitcase in Europe?
It’s a matter of personal preference. Backpacks are favored by hostel travelers for portability. While debated, both backpacks and carry-on suitcases are viable for European travel.
How big of a backpack do I need to travel to Europe?
Smaller is better. Laundry is easily accessible in Europe, and less weight enhances mobility. A 40-50 liter bag is generally sufficient.
Is a 40l backpack carry-on?
Typically, a 40L backpack is carry-on compliant in the US and Europe, though airline restrictions vary.
Can I bring two backpacks on a plane?
Yes, often. Most airlines allow a carry-on (main pack) and a personal item (daypack) that fits under the seat. However, European budget airlines may charge for all items, including personal items, so check your flight’s terms.
What’s your opinion on the best euro backpacking trip bag? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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