Best travel backpacks for weekend trips: Find Your Perfect Carry-On Companion
Embarking on a weekend getaway allows you to break free from the monotony of daily life, rejuvenate your senses, and indulge in new experiences.
As you plan your short escape, you’ll find that choosing the right travel backpack can significantly impact the overall experience, influencing both convenience and comfort.
In this well-researched and comprehensive article, I will guide you through notable features and expert recommendations to help you select the ideal travel backpack specifically designed for weekend adventures.
Weekend trips often require a delicate balance between packing light and having all necessary items at hand.
This article not only delves into key criteria to consider when choosing the perfect weekend travel backpack but also expertly reviews top-rated products, comparing key aspects such as size, weight, style, durability, and organizational features.
I will explore the latest technological advancements and design innovations that are transforming both form and functionality in the backpack industry.
Comparison table of 10 best travel backpacks for weekend trips
| Backpack Name | Capacity | Weight | Dimensions | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osprey Farpoint 40 | 40L | 3.17 lbs | 21 x 14 x 9 inches | Nylon |
| Nomatic Travel Bag | 40L | 4.05 lbs | 21 x 14 x 9 inches | Nylon |
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35 | 35L | 3.3 lbs | 20 x 12 x 10 inches | Recycled polyester |
| Patagonia Black Hole 32L | 32L | 2.08 lbs | 21 x 13 x 10 inches | Recycled polyester |
| Tortuga Setout Divide | 26-34L | 3.3 lbs | 19 x 12.5 x 6.5 inches | Nylon |
| Aer Travel Pack 2 | 33L | 3.7 lbs | 21.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches | Nylon |
| Thule Landmark 40L | 40L | 3.9 lbs | 22 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Nylon |
| REI Co-op Trail 25 | 25L | 1.7 lbs | 19 x 12 x 7 inches | Nylon |
| Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable | 30-38L | 3.3 lbs | 22.4 x 13.8 x 8.7 inches | Nylon |
| Deuter Transit 40 | 40L | 3.8 lbs | 22 x 14 x 9.4 inches | Nylon |
The Best travel backpacks for weekend trips: Recommended List
1. Osprey Farpoint 40 Men’s Travel Backpack
- Large, lockable U-zip duffel-style access to main compartment - 40L total volume
- Meets carry-on size restrictions for most airlines (Size Medium/Large: 21H X 14W X 9D inches)
- Lockable zipper access to padded laptop & tablet sleeve (fits up to most 15" laptops)
- Stowaway backpanel, shoulder straps and hipbelt with zippered rear flap for protection
- Two front mesh waterbottle pocket
The Osprey Farpoint 40 Men’s Travel Backpack is a top-of-the-line travel backpack designed specifically for weekend getaways and short trips. Its highly versatile design, multiple pockets, and padded compartments make it an ideal choice for today’s modern traveler who values functionality, style, and conveying a sense of preparedness for any situation.
To begin with, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is a highly ergonomic and comfortable travel companion. The backpack is designed with a LightWire frame suspension system that takes the load off your back, transferring the weight efficiently to the hip belt. This ensures an even distribution of weight and eliminates the strain on your shoulders and back, offering supreme comfort during long travels.
Durability is another strong suit of the Farpoint 40. Constructed from a blend of 210D nylon and 600D pack cloth, the backpack is sturdy, lightweight, and resistant to abrasions and wear. In addition, the materials are treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish, providing added protection from rain or spills. You can confidently use this backpack for years without worrying about damage or wear and tear.
One of the standout features of the Osprey Farpoint 40 is its organization capabilities. The main compartment is equipped with a large panel-loading design that allows easy packing and access to your belongings. The padded laptop and tablet sleeves, as well as multiple internal and external pockets, ensure your gadgets and accessories are secured and organized.
Furthermore, the backpack is travel-friendly with its stowaway back panel, harness, and hip belt, making it convenient to carry on flights or other modes of transportation. The backpack also complies with most carry-on size restrictions, letting you avoid those pesky checked luggage fees.
2. Nomatic Travel Bag
- LIFE ON THE MOVE: Patented strap design allows you to switch between duffle bag and backpack. You never have to worry about dangling straps again! Whether you're headed to the gym, the office, or a weekend getaway, the 30L travel bag will hold everything you need and more.
- 20+ INNOVATIVE FEATURES: Find your things easily with pockets designed specifically for shoes, liquids, tech, and everything in-between. Features include a full perimeter zipper, RFID safe pocket, roller bag sleeve, mesh pockets, a cord pass through with an easy access pocket, water bottle pocket, water resistant pocket, shoe compartment that fits 2 pairs of shoes with a ventilated door, and more!
- TSA READY: Imagine security without juggling bins! The TSA ready laptop sleeve lays flat so you can leave your laptop in the bag when passing through airport security.
- BUILT TO WITHSTAND: We know traveling can be rough on your belongings, so we engineered this bag to be durable and long-lasting! Our bag is created with water resistant materials and zippers that will keep your precious cargo safe.
The Nomatic Travel Bag boasts an impressive capacity of 40 liters, which makes it perfect for a range of weekend adventures. It offers numerous compartments and pockets designed to keep your belongings organized, from its quick access laptop sleeve to its mesh divider that separates clean from dirty clothes. The bag also features a zippered pocket for shoes or wet garments – a handy addition to keep the rest of your belongings clean and dry.
Strong attention to detail is evident in the bag’s design. For example, the built-in RFID blocking pocket protects sensitive information on your credit cards and travel documents from would-be thieves. Every pocket and compartment is strategically placed to optimize space and accessibility based on user feedback and rigorous testing.
In terms of appearance, the Nomatic Travel Bag is a sleek, minimalist, and professional-looking piece that will seamlessly transition from casual to business settings. Its black color presents a versatile and timeless option that suits any outfit, while the high-quality, water-resistant materials make it appropriate in various conditions.
With a focus on comfort, the Nomatic Travel Bag is designed to carry heavy loads with ease. The adjustable padded straps allow users to tweak weight distribution and maximize comfort during travel. Furthermore, the detachable waist and sternum straps offer additional stability and balance during your journeys.
True to its name, this bag offers multiple carrying options. It can be worn as a backpack for hands-free travel or converted into a duffel with a detachable strap. This flexibility is ideal for weekend getaways, where adaptability is key.
3. Cotopaxi Allpa 35 backpack
- Weight-distributing, low-profile harness system.
- Carry-on-compatible 35L capacity. TPU-coated 1000D polyester. 840D ballistic nylon paneling.
- Suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment. Large zippered mesh compartment on the right side. Subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left side.
- Padded laptop and tablet sleeve. Shortcut zipper to main compartment. Top zippered pocket. Security YKK zippers.
- Carabiner lash loops. Tuck-away straps. 4 reinforced grab handles. Included rain cover
Built from a robust TPU-coated 1000D polyester, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35 thrives on durability and sturdiness, ensuring protection for your belongings in various environments. This material is notably weather-resistant and safeguarding against wear and tear. In addition, the backpack also features anti-theft measures, such as its YKK security zippers, which are lockable and provide an extra layer of safety while traveling.
The Allpa 35 backpack combines the mobility of carry-on luggage with the functionality of a daypack. With its sleek dimensions (20″ x 12″ x 13″), it meets most airline carry-on size requirements, making it ideal for those who prefer to travel light on their weekend trips. Moreover, increased flexibility is available due to its suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening – which allows for easy access and brilliant packing organization.
The interior of the Allpa 35 boasts comprehensive compartmentalization, including separate mesh zipper pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, and smaller pouches for your accessories. These designated spaces make packing a breeze and ensure all your essentials are neatly stowed away during your trip.
Another prominent feature that adds to the Allpa 35’s versatility is its deployable straps, offering three different carrying methods. Padded shoulder straps ensure a comfortable backpack-style carry, while a shoulder sling option also provides convenience and functionality. Lastly, you can opt for the regular suitcase handles conveniently located on the top and side.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35 packs quite a punch when it comes to style as well. Its sleek design and unique color patterns effortlessly distinguish it from conventional travel gear.
4. Patagonia Black Hole 32L
- Black Hole Pack 32L
- Day Packs
- Patagonia
- sporty and resistant clothing
- 49301-Blk
When embarking on a weekend trip, every traveler wants a backpack that is durable, spacious, and comfortable enough to accommodate all their essentials. One of the best travel backpacks for weekend trips is undoubtedly the Patagonia Black Hole 32L backpack. This multifunctional and versatile backpack ticks all the right boxes and might be the perfect companion for your adventure-filled weekend getaway.
The Patagonia Black Hole backpack is made from a robust and reliable ripstop material, known for its resistance to wear, tear, and abrasion, ensuring that your backpack will be your adventure companion for years to come. The material is treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish, which offers excellent protection against light rain and moisture. This water-resistant feature ensures that your belongings remain dry and secure even in unexpected weather conditions.
One of the main advantages of the Patagonia Black Hole backpack is its unrivaled storage capacity. With a 32-liter hold, the backpack includes a main compartment that can house clothing, shoes, a sleeping bag, and other weekend trip essentials. The spacious main compartment is also easily accessible, thanks to the U-shaped zipper design that allows it to be fully opened for easy packing and unpacking. This backpack offers a separate padded laptop pocket that can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop, ensuring that your electronic devices remain protected and organized.
Multiple smaller pockets, including a zippered front pocket, two mesh side pockets, and a zippered top pocket, offer dedicated spaces for smaller items like travel documents, toiletries, and snacks. Compression straps secure your belongings and provide a customizable fit for your backpack, providing a comfortable carrying experience.
5. Tortuga Setout Divide
- AN EXPANDABLE CARRY ON - The Setout Divide travel backpack is carry on sized so you never have to worry about checking your bag; With room for 3-5 days worth of clothing, toiletries, and other travel essentials, you'll always have what you need, when you need it; The Divide is expandable from 26L to 34L when you need more space for a longer trip or to bring home some souvenirs
- PACKS LIKE A SUITCASE - Opens flat like a suitcase for easy packing and organization; Never lose your stuff at the bottom of your bag; Accessory pockets keep all your belongings readily available
- CARRIES LIKE A BACKPACK - Dual foam shoulder straps conform to your body for a custom fit; The padded, removable hip belt takes your bag's weight off of your shoulders and transfers it onto your hips for a lighter, more comfortable carry
- LAPTOP AND COMPUTER FRIENDLY - Laptop and tablet sleeves protect your electronics while on the road; The Setout Divide expandable carryon travel backpack fits a 15" laptop, 9.7" tablet, and all your chargers
- BUILT TO LAST - Stowable, hideaway straps keep your bag protected when stashed away; Durable, weather-resistant materials ensure the Setout will be there with you for the long haul
The Tortuga Setout Divide backpack has undoubtedly emerged as one of the best travel companions in the market. This versatile and modern bag is designed to cater to the needs of urban travelers who crave a comfortable and stylish packing solution.
One of the prominent reasons the Tortuga Setout Divide backpack stands out is due to its unique expandable design. This ingenious feature allows you to customize the bag’s capacity based on your packing requirements for different trips. Starting at 26L, it can expand up to 34L, providing ample room for those last-minute additions. This is particularly beneficial for those who tend to come back with more than they left with, such as souvenir collectors or relentless shoppers.
The Tortuga Setout Divide is also celebrated for its impressive organization capabilities. The backpack is equipped with numerous pockets and compartments, allowing you to conveniently access your essentials without fumbling through your belongings. The main compartment opens like a suitcase, which means you can pack and unpack with ease. The thoughtful addition of a padded laptop sleeve with lockable zippers ensures the safety of your electronic devices.
Another remarkable aspect of this backpack is its ergonomic design. The adjustable shoulder straps with load-lifter technology, along with an air mesh back panel and a fully adjustable hip belt, provide exceptional support and comfort during long hours of wear. Moreover, the memory foam padding contributes to an overall pleasant experience throughout your journey.
Constructed with a high-quality 900D polyester material, this backpack is built to last. The durable fabric, coupled with the weather-resistant coating, ensures that the Tortuga Setout Divide backpack can endure rough handling and harsh weather conditions. This makes it a reliable option to accompany you in various environments.
6. Aer Travel Pack 2
- Carry-on travel backpack with internal, zippered laptop sleeve; ultra-flexible and lightweight; made of durable polyester
- Main compartment with zippered mesh space, optional midway shelf, and internal/external compression straps
- Front pocket and front-top pocket for easy access to documents and travel liquids; main upper packing compartment with organizer, expandable storage space tuck-away ID pocket
- Padded shoulder straps disconnect easily and store away in zippered back pocket; removable sternum strap, waist belt, and shoulder strap; well-placed exterior handles
- Main compartment measures 5.5 by 13 to 14 by 21.5 inches (LxWxH); main upper packing compartment measures 3 to 5 by 13 to 14 by 21.5 inches (LxWxH); full-expansion zipper creates 10% more packing space
The Aer Travel Pack 2 backpack has earned its reputation as one of the best travel backpacks for weekend trips. This innovative, sleek, and stylish backpack boasts impeccable design, superior functionality, and unbeatable durability, making it perfect for short trips, urban adventures, and even light outdoor use. With its spacious 33L capacity, comfortable carry features, and practical organization options, the Aer Travel Pack 2 is the ideal companion for your next weekend escape.
One of the highlights of the Aer Travel Pack 2 backpack is its remarkable construction. Made with high-quality 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon, YKK zippers, and reinforced stitches, this backpack can withstand the rigors of travel and resist wear and tear with ease. Additionally, the exterior features a water-resistant coating, ensuring that your essentials remain dry and protected during unexpected downpours.
Comfort is a key consideration for any travel backpack, and the Aer Travel Pack 2 goes above and beyond with its exceptional ergonomic design. The backpack features padded, adjustable shoulder straps with load lifters, a fully padded mesh back panel with detachable hip belt, and a sturdy sternum strap with an integrated whistle for safety. These thoughtful features combine to enhance the comfort and stability of the pack while evenly distributing weight across your body, making long days of treks and sightseeing feel effortless.
Aesthetically, the Aer Travel Pack 2 backpack stands out for its minimalist design and urban appeal, rendering it suitable for both professional and casual settings. The pack is available in black, gray, and X-Pac, offering options to suit different tastes and requirements.
7. Thule Landmark 40L
- A carry-on adventure travel backpack with a women's-specific fit
- SafeZone compartment protects a phone, sunglasses and small valuables
- Hidden CashStash pocket keeps a passport and money safe
- Innovative LoopLocks secure zipper pulls to the bag to deter theft
- 15" MacBook and 12.9" tablet storage
The Thule Landmark 40L backpack is a top-performing choice in the realm of travel backpacks, particularly for weekend trips. With its innovative design, superior quality materials, and advanced security features, this backpack is a must-have for anyone seeking a reliable and spacious travel companion. In this product review guide, we will explore the Thule Landmark 40L backpack’s top characteristics that make it one of the best travel backpacks for weekend trips.
In terms of capacity and functionality, the Thule Landmark 40L backpack exceeds expectations. Its 40-liter volume provides ample space for packing clothes, gadgets, toiletries, and other essentials for a short getaway. The backpack is strategically organized, featuring a main compartment with compression straps, a separate laptop sleeve, and numerous pockets and compartments for efficient organization. When you want to keep your belongings tidy, this bag has you covered.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Thule Landmark 40L backpack is its impeccable build quality. Crafted with durable 420D Dobby polyester material, this backpack can withstand harsh conditions and daily wear and tear, ensuring your belongings remain protected. Moreover, the backpack’s water-resistant nature provides further security for your belongings in the event of unforeseen weather conditions.
Safety is a top priority when traveling. That’s why the Thule Landmark 40L backpack comes equipped with advanced security features such as lockable zippers, a hidden Passport pocket, and an RFID-blocking compartment. These features protect your sensitive information from potential theft and unauthorized access, giving you peace of mind during your weekend escapades.
9. Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable
- THE NEVER CHECK EXPANDABLE BACKPACK: A travel pack you'll never check because its carry capacity is huge but it fits in small spaces
- KEEP IT ORGANIZED: Side access to padded laptop compartment, fits up to 15" laptops; External quick access pocket for your travel items; Front pocket organization zone; Internal organizer for pens, phones, and other small stuff; Internal slip pocket for additional organization; Zipper expandable water bottle pocket
- CLEVER EXTRAS: Side hooks protect pocket opening; Top and side padded handles; Weatherproof zippers; Inside pocket fits up to 9.7" tablet
- MATERIALS & FIT: Adjustable, removable sternum strap; Never check-in bag; Padded shoulder straps for optimum comfort; Padded back panel for extra comfort on your back; Main body material is rugged 420x2000D Cordura
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: Timbuk2 stands behind the legendary quality and craftsmanship of all our products; We also embrace the wild, twisty ways of life; If there is a defect in the materials or workmanship we will repair the bag at our discretion for the lifetime of the product
Stepping onto the scene as one of the best travel backpacks for weekend trips, the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable backpack has truly outdone itself. Boasting high-quality materials, a clever design, and unrivaled functionality, this travel accessory is the perfect companion for those seeking memorable weekend getaways.
Constructed with a combination of premium polyester and durable 1000D Nylon, the Timbuk2 Never Check backpack is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent travel. A testament to its build quality, the materials and stitching on this bag are not just water-resistant but also wear-resistant, ensuring your possessions remain secure and dry.
Keeping the modern traveler in mind, the Never Check Expandable backpack features ample storage space for all your vital belongings, without appearing bulky or cumbersome. Its unique expandable design allows the bag to transition from 24L to 30L, providing the flexibility needed for various trip durations and packing preferences.
Within its sleek exterior, you’ll find multiple compartments with thoughtfully placed pockets, making organization a breeze. The main compartment has a padded laptop sleeve, spacious enough to fit a 15-inch laptop, while the front compartment contains several pockets for smaller essentials such as passports, wallets or chargers.
For those concerned about security, this backpack includes a discrete, yet accessible, side zip pocket that can keep your valuables safe while on the go. Additionally, the bag’s rear panel is designed with an intentionally slim profile and a breathable mesh fabric, ensuring minimal contact between your back and the backpack to reduce sweat during warm weather.
10. Deuter Transit 40
- LIFE ON THE MOVE: Patented strap design allows you to switch between duffle bag and backpack. You never have to worry about dangling straps again! Whether you're headed to the gym, the office, or a weekend getaway, the 30L travel bag will hold everything you need and more.
- 20+ INNOVATIVE FEATURES: Find your things easily with pockets designed specifically for shoes, liquids, tech, and everything in-between. Features include a full perimeter zipper, RFID safe pocket, roller bag sleeve, mesh pockets, a cord pass through with an easy access pocket, water bottle pocket, water resistant pocket, shoe compartment that fits 2 pairs of shoes with a ventilated door, and more!
- TSA READY: Imagine security without juggling bins! The TSA ready laptop sleeve lays flat so you can leave your laptop in the bag when passing through airport security.
- BUILT TO WITHSTAND: We know traveling can be rough on your belongings, so we engineered this bag to be durable and long-lasting! Our bag is created with water resistant materials and zippers that will keep your precious cargo safe.
The Deuter Transit 40 backpack is an exceptionally designed travel backpack specifically tailored to cater to the needs of weekend travelers. With a carry-on compatible size and ample storage capacity, this backpack is an ideal choice for individuals seeking an efficient and stylish travel companion. In this review, we dive into the features that make this backpack one of the best travel backpacks for weekend trips.
The first aspect that differentiates the Deuter Transit 40 from other travel backpacks is its outstanding durability. The bag features a strong blend of polyester (600D PES) and polyamide (210D PA), which endows the backpack with high strength abrasion resistance. This ensures that the backpack can easily withstand the rigors of frequent weekend travels, providing users with a dependable and long-lasting travel mate.
One of the standout features of the Deuter Transit 40 is its robust suspension system, which ensures a comfortable carry. The VariQuick adjustable shoulder harness allows users to easily adjust the backpack according to their torso length, while the substantial padded hip belt and anatomically shaped shoulder straps provide optimal load distribution and promote natural movement. Additionally, the backpack includes an aluminum frame, which not only adds to its durability but also helps retain its shape.
Overall, I highly recommend the Deuter Transit 40 backpack when it comes to choosing a reliable travel companion on weekend trips. Its combination of convenience, comfort and durability make it a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable bag to take them from point A to point B with ease. The thoughtful design ensures that all your belongings stay safe and secure during transit – making this backpack ideal for any traveler.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve reviewed our options for the best travel backpacks, isn’t it time to go on your next adventure?
When selecting the best backpack for weekend trips, consider several factors: size, comfort, capacity, and more.
So whether you are venturing out into the big city or trading your three days off for an alpine meadow in the Swiss Alps; make sure your bag is packed with all of life’s essentials.
Remember, no two trips are the same so find a pack that fits the journey ahead — allowing you to capture those precious moments along the way.
Enjoy your next weekend getaway no matter where it takes you!
