The best travel backpack for traveling to Europe include Tortuga Travel, Osprey Sojourn Porter, and Peak Design Travel Backpack. These travel backpacks offer enough space while meeting the airline cabin size restrictions for Europe trips. Choosing the right backpack allows you to meet strict baggage policies set by EasyJet, Ryanair, Vueling while traveling through Europe.
According to studies conducted by Tourist Secrets and Eurail Planner, travelers to Europe typically opt for carry-on backpacks in the 50L to 70L range. Backpacks we have chosen for traveling Europe feature ergonimic design, adequate storing capacity, advanced anti-theft features like hidden pockets, lockable zippers, and secret compartments. These backpacks are water-proof and comfortable to wear for extended periods if you are hiking in Northern Europe.
What are the best travel backpacks for Europe?
The best travle backpacks for Europe are mentioned and compared in the table below.
| Backpack | Capacity | Water-Proof | Best for |
| Tortuga Travel Backpack | 40L | Yes | Overall Best for Europe trips |
| Osprey Sojourn Porter | 46L | Yes | Best Water-Proof Daypack for Europe Travel |
| Peak Design Travel Backpack | 45L | Yes | Best Water-Proof Daypack for European Travel |
1. Tortuga Travel Backpack – Best for Carry-on Europe Travel
The Tortuga Travel Backpack is built to comply with international carry-on rules, making it a top choice for European travel. It fits overhead bins on most European airlines (including Ryanair, easyJet, and Lufthansa), helping travelers avoid checked luggage fees and move faster through airports.
I tested the Tortuga Travel Backpack during a recent trip across Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France, and it quickly proved why it’s often recommended as one of the best travel backpacks for Europe. The Tortuga Travel Backpack withstands Europe’s unpredictable weather and busy city environments. From sudden rain in Brussels to crowded metros in Madrid, it keeps belongings secure. Plus, the worldwide warranty adds peace of mind for international trips.
One of the standout features is its waterproof build. The durable fabric kept all my belongings safe and dry, even while visiting landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower in the rain—an essential benefit for travelers in Europe, where weather can be unpredictable.
At just 40L, the backpack is lightweight yet spacious, making it ideal for efficient travel through European airports and city centers without feeling bulky. For versatility, Tortuga offers two main versions, Pro 40L and Lite 40L. The Pro 40L delivers premium comfort, durability, and advanced travel features. On other hand, Lite 40L, a budget-friendly choice that still covers all the essentials for standard European trips.
Designed with adjustable straps, padded shoulders, and a removable hip belt, this backpack ensures comfort even on long days. Whether strolling through cobblestone streets in Europe, the even weight distribution makes carrying gear less tiring.
With its balance of comfort, practicality, and travel-ready features, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is one of the top choices for anyone planning a trip through Europe.
2. Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L | Water-Proof Backpack for Europe Trip
Last year, I visited the Nortern Europe to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Scandinavia, traveling across Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Given the severe Nordic weather, I needed a backpack that could withstand harsh rain, sudden snowstorms, and the demands of city-to-nature transitions. After much consideration, I chose the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L, a travel backpack that promised versatility, durability, and weather proftection.
The first test came in Norway, where I explored the stunning fjords and rugged mountains. The Porter’s recycled high-tenacity and ballistic materials proved invaluable, shielding my essentials from both mist and rain.
In Bergen, known for steep hills and frequent downpours, the waterproof protection kept everything dry, while in Tromsø the AirScape™ breathable back panel and ergonomic support made hiking through icy trails far more comfortable. This balance of durability and carrying comfort is what sets this backpack apart from others on the list.
The StraightJacket™ compression system on this backpack added extra padding and kept my gear compact as I strolled through the crowded streets of Copenhagen and exploring Aarhus’s historic quarters. Even with a full load, the backpack felt stable and well-protected, letting me focus on my surroundings instead of constantly readjusting my bag.
The interior mesh and liner pockets kept documents, electronics, and clothes neatly organized, while the TSID (Travel Sentry® Identification) feature gave me peace of mind knowing my bag could be identified if misplaced. This backpack offers 6L more storing capacity than the Tortuga Travel Backpack.
In the end, the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L delivered on its promise of being a versatile European travel companion. It combines the convenience of a backpack with the durability of rolling luggage, making it perfect for travelers who want both mobility in urban hubs and reliability in rugged terrains.
For those planning extended journeys through Northern Europe, Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L backpack offers the right blend of comfort, organization, and protection.
3. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L | Best for Travelling in European Trains
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offers the perfect balance between size, functionality, and robust security features. While boarding on Ryanair and EasyJet flights, this backpack slid easily under the seat while still leaving ample room for essentials.
When traveling on iconic European trains such as the Eurostar and Thalys, this backpack fit perfectly in the overhead compartments, making it quick to grab items on the go. The added theft protection gave me peace of mind while moving through crowded stations and exploring busy city streets.
The stowable hip belt and axial adjustable strap attachments ons this backpack adapted effortlessly to long days of sightseeing, such as wandering the cobblestone streets of Prague. By evenly distributing the weight across my hips, the backpack reduced fatigue and pressure on my shoulders.
It features stowable sternum strap, whcih adds stability when navigating crowded stations and narrow alleys in Central Europe, making the backpack feel secure and balanced even in tight spaces.
The abundance of internal and external pockets kept everything organized, from documents and tech to small daily essentials. The weatherproof, rugged exterior stood up to Paris rain showers and the dusty streets of Rome without a problem.
I liked the expandable design, which allowed me to pack extra items I picked up along the way, and the wide clamshell opening made packing and unpacking seamless—whether I was rushing to board a train or organizing my gear in a cozy Airbnb.
All in all, the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L combines carry-on compliance, comfort, security, and durability, making it an excellent choice for those planning multi-country trips across Europe.
From flights to scenic European rail journeys, and from rainy northern capitals to sunny Mediterranean streets, it adapted with ease. While it lacks a TSA-approved lock, it brings many other useful features to make it safer for Europe trip.
How to Choose the Right Backpack for a Europe Trip?
Choosing the right travel backpack for Europe depends on balancing size, comfort, durability, and compliance with European transport rules. A well-designed backpack can save time, reduce stress, and keep your belongings safe while moving across airports, trains, and city streets.
1. Capacity and Size
For most European trips, a 40–45L backpack is the sweet spot. It’s large enough to fit essentials for multi-week travel yet compact enough to meet carry-on restrictions on airlines like Ryanair and easyJet, and it fits easily in train overhead compartments such as Eurostar or Thalys.
2. Comfort and Fit
Backpacks with ergonomic shoulder straps, stowable hip belts, and adjustable torso lengths are essential for long walks through cobblestone streets in Prague or when climbing hills in Lisbon. A breathable back panel helps reduce sweat during summer travel.
3. Weight and Material
Choose a lightweight backpack made of high-tenacity nylon or recycled polyester with weatherproof coatings. This protects your gear from rain in Paris or sudden snow in Scandinavia, while keeping the overall weight manageable for frequent train travel.
4. Organization and Accessibility
Front-loading or clamshell-style backpacks make packing easier compared to top-loading trekking bags. Look for padded laptop compartments, organizer panels, and multiple quick-access pockets—ideal for moving between airports, B&Bs, and city centers.
5. Durability and Security
Durability is non-negotiable for long European trips. Features like lockable zippers, reinforced buckles, and rugged stitching extend the backpack’s lifespan. Anti-theft elements such as hidden pockets and RFID sleeves are especially useful when exploring crowded metros in Rome or Barcelona.
6. Versatility and Expandability
Many modern travel backpacks, such as the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L or the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, include expandable designs that adjust capacity when picking up extra items along the way. This flexibility is invaluable for multi-city itineraries.
The table below helps you decide which travel back is the right fit for you.
| Backpack Capacity (Liters) | Best for | Typical Dimensions (H x W x D) |
|---|---|---|
| 40 – 50 Liters | Multi-day trips, cabin luggage | 55 x 35 x 25 cm |
| 50 – 70 Liters | Week-long trips, longer hikes | 65 x 40 x 30 cm |
| 70+ Liters | Long-term travel, backpacking | 75 x 45 x 35 cm |
What backpack should I get for backpacking Europe?
For backpacking Europe, choose a 40–45L carry-on travel backpack designed for European trips. Models like the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L, Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L, or Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L are ideal because they combine airline compliance, comfort, and durability while fitting overhead bins on trains and planes.
How big of a backpack do I need to travel to Europe?
To travel to Europe, most travelers find 40 to 50L capacity sufficient for multi-country trips in Europe. This size balances packing space with mobility, making it easy to carry through airports, cobblestone streets, and train stations without needing checked luggage.
What should be the dimensions of a backpack for visiting Europe?
For hassle-free travel, aim for a backpack that fits 55 x 35 x 20 cm (21.6 x 13.7 x 7.8 in) — the standard carry-on size for European airlines. These dimensions ensure compatibility with planes, trains, and buses, while keeping your bag compact enough for hostel lockers and small hotel rooms.
Is 40L enough for backpacking Europe?
Yes, a 40L backpack is enough for most travelers, especially if you pack efficiently. It meets the carry-on rules of budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet, fits in train overhead compartments (Eurostar, Thalys, Deutsche Bahn), and allows flexibility without overpacking.
Can I bring two backpacks on a plane to Europe?
Yes, you can bring two backpacks on a plane to Europe. However, it depends on the airline’s baggage policy. Most European carriers allow one carry-on backpack (40–45L) plus a personal item or daypack (15–20L). For example, you can carry a 40L travel backpack in the overhead bin and a small laptop/daypack under the seat.
Hi, I’m Masab Jamal, the founder and head editor of this blog. I love to spend most of my time in the wilderness. Apart from camping and outdoor life, I’m a full time blogger.