Choosing the best travel backpack for traveling to Europe that is of the right size and capacity is difficult for newbies. Whether visiting European countries as a business person or tourist, you need the right backpack to avoid any issues at the check-in counter. Many European airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, Vueling, etc, have strict baggage policies regarding cabin backpacks.
Modern backpacks are equipped with advanced anti-theft features like hidden pockets, lockable zippers, and secret compartments. There are hundreds of travel backpack brands available on the market; however, you need to choose the one that fits your budget and needs.
Over the years, I’ve tested travel bags from famous brands like The North Face, Tortuga, Quechua, etc. Based on my thorough evaluation of numerous travel bags, I can confidently recommend the best travel backpacks tailored to your journey.
According to studies and travel guides by sources like Tourist Secrets and Eurail Planner, travelers heading to Europe typically opt for carry-on backpacks in the 50-70 liter range. This site offers a balance between capacity and portability, making it suitable for trips that last from a few weeks to several months.
Best Travel Backpacks for Europe Trip
My recommendations for daypacks in this guide are based on personal experience while traveling through different European countries.
| 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 | The Overall Best Backpack for Travelling to Europe
On my recent trip to the Benelux and France, I opted for the Tortuga Travel Backpack due to its exceptional design, which streamlined convenience and organization. This choice proved invaluable, allowing me to effortlessly manage all my essentials throughout my travels.
Navigating the charming cobblestone streets of Amsterdam and the bustling markets of Brussels was much more enjoyable and safe with its front-loading design, which allowed me to quickly access my essentials without digging through a jumble of items.
The weather in Paris is unpredictable, but the Tortuga Travel Backpack was a real lifesaver for me. Its robust, waterproof fabric kept my belongings dry and safe, allowing me to roam through the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral and the famous Eiffel Tower with peace of mind.
Who is this backpack for?
This lightweight backpack perfect for those who value practicality and want to move efficiently through airports and cities. The Pro 40L is designed for travelers seeking durability, advanced features, and premium comfort, while the Lite 40L offers a lighter, more budget-friendly option with essential features for standard travel needs.
Tortuga offers several types of travel backpacks designed to suit different needs, but the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L and the Tortuga Lite 40L are the top choices among travelers.
Features of the Tortuga Travel Backpack:
The Tortuga Travel Backpack is the perfect carry-on size, which is one of the reasons I like it so much. It fits easily in overhead bins on domestic European flights, complies with international carry-on regulations, and eliminates the need for checked luggage.
I. Perfect carry-on size
The Tortuga Travel Backpack is the perfect carry-on size, which is one of the reasons I like it so much. It fits easily in overhead bins on domestic European flights, complies with international carry-on regulations, and eliminates the need for checked luggage.
II. Simple Packing Made Easy
I chose this travel backpack because of its front-loading design and spacious laptop compartment. The padded sleeves keep my laptop and tablet safe, while the front pocket with an organizer panel and Kindle sleeve ensures all my essentials are neatly arranged and easily accessible.
III. Exceptional Carrying Comfort
On my recent journey through Europe, the Tortuga Travel Backpack proved to be a perfect companion. Its adjustable fit, padded shoulder straps, and removable hip belt ensured exceptional comfort and evenly distributed weight, making it ideal for exploring diverse European terrains and enduring long days of sightseeing.
IV. Designed for Maximum Durability
In short, the Tortuga Travel Backpack has waterproof fabric and lockable zippers, making it a great deal for European travelers. The high-quality buckles and hardware ensured lasting durability, and the worldwide warranty provided peace of mind throughout my travels in the Benelux countries.
2. Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L | Most Reliable Water-Proof Backpack for European Travelers
Last year, I embarked on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden, and Denmark). Given the severe Nordic weather, I needed a travel backpack that could handle the harsh conditions and provide reliable protection and durability.
Finding the best travel backpack was not an easy choice. Finally, I decided to take the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L travel backpack because of its versatile design, durability, and ability to securely compress and protect my belongings in diverse and challenging conditions.
Who is this backpack for?
The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L backpack is ideal for adventurers who need a versatile bag that combines the convenience of a backpack with the durability of rolling luggage. It’s perfect for travelers who require flexibility in navigating urban and rugged environments.
Features of the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L:
I. Durable and Eco-Friendly Protection for Scandinavian Adventures
I started my journey from Norway to experience its stunning fjords and natural landscapes. The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L backpack proved to be a great asset with its spacious design and recycled high-tenacity and ballistic materials.
In Bergen, known for its steep hills and frequent rain, the durable high-tenacity materials kept my belongings protected and dry. While in Tromsø, with its rugged landscapes and sudden snowstorms, the backpack’s secure packing system and comfortable AirScape™ breathable back panel made hiking and exploring much more secure and enjoyable.
II. Secure and Organized Travel
The unique StraightJacket™ compression system in my backpack provided extra padding and load control, ensuring my belongings stayed secure. This was especially helpful as I navigated the bustling streets of Copenhagen and the historic sites of Aarhus. The added stability and protection kept my items safe and organized, allowing me to explore both cities without worry.
III. Stress-Free Travel
The TSID (Travel Sentry® Identification) luggage registration gave me peace of mind, knowing my backpack could be easily identified if lost. The interior mesh and liner pockets kept everything organized, making my travels through Stockholm and Gothenburg both comfortable and efficient.
In short, the Osprey Sojourn Porter allowed me to fully enjoy the vibrant city life in Stockholm and the magical Arctic experiences in Kiruna without any hassles.
3. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L | Best for Travelling in European Trains
After the COVID-19 pandemic officially ended on May 5, 2023, my restless nature drove me to explore different countries and cities in Europe. I chose the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L because of its ideal size, excellent functionality, and robust security features. This bag lacks a TSA-approved lock, but for a daypack of this size, we can get away without it.
Who is this backpack for?
The Peak Design 45L backpack is suited for travelers whose itineraries typically include air travel, taxis, and accommodations like hotels or B&Bs.
Features of Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L:
I. The Perfect Companion for European Journeys
The Peak Design Travel Backpack truly is a backpack with ergonomic design and advanced features. It comfortably fits under Ryanair and EasyJet seats while still offering plenty of space for all my essentials. I love traveling by train in Europe for its scenic routes, convenience, and comfort, and the Peak Design Travel Backpack was very helpful during my travels on Eurostar and Thalys train services across Europe.
Moreover, it fits perfectly in the overhead compartments, making it easy to access my belongings. Additionally, its robust theft protection provided practicality and peace of mind as I explored the continent.
II. Comfort & Versatility
The 45L Travel Backpack is engineered for comfort and versatility. Its unique features include a stowable hip belt and axial adjustable strap attachments that provide all-day comfort for all body types. I experienced this while exploring the cobblestone streets of Prague and carrying the backpack for long periods; the adjustable strap evenly distributed the weight across my hips, reducing fatigue and discomfort.
The stowable sternum strap offered added support as I carried the backpack through crowded train stations and narrow streets in Central Europe, easing shoulder strain and improving stability.
III. Sustainability for European Travel
The Peak Design Travel Backpack proved indispensable with its abundance of pockets, ensuring everything was neatly organized and easily accessible. Its weatherproof and rugged design held up against varied conditions, from rainy days in Paris to the dusty streets of Rome.
The expandable design easily accommodated the extra items I picked up along the way, while the large, convenient access made packing and unpacking a breeze, whether I was navigating crowded train stations or organizing in a cozy Airbnb.
European Backpack Size Guide: Choosing the Right Capacity for Your Trip
Here’s a European Backpack Size Guide in table format:
| Backpack Capacity (Liters) | Suitable Usage | Typical Dimensions (H x W x D) | Example Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 – 20 Liters | Day trips, short hikes, city tours | 40 x 25 x 15 cm | City breaks (e.g., Paris, Amsterdam) |
| 20 – 30 Liters | Short weekend trips, hiking, everyday use | 45 x 30 x 20 cm | Weekend getaways (e.g., Barcelona, Prague) |
| 30 – 40 Liters | Weekend trips, light packing | 50 x 30 x 25 cm | Short trips (e.g., Berlin, Lisbon) |
| 40 – 50 Liters | Multi-day trips, cabin luggage | 55 x 35 x 25 cm | European tours (e.g., Rome, Vienna) |
| 50 – 70 Liters | Week-long trips, longer hikes | 65 x 40 x 30 cm | Extended travel (e.g., Interrail, Alps hiking) |
| 70+ Liters | Long-term travel, backpacking | 75 x 45 x 35 cm | Backpacking Europe (e.g., Multiple countries) |
Verdict
Choosing the best backpack for traveling to Europe depends on your travel style and needs. If you value flexibility and urban travel efficiency, the Peak Design 45L is a strong contender. If you require durability and versatility across different terrains, the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a solid choice. For streamlined, carry-on-only travel, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is ideal.
Useful Sources:
- https://help.ryanair.com/hc/en-gb/categories/12489112419089-Bag-Rules#:~:text=Priority%20%26%202%20Cabin%20Bags%3A%20This,Boarding%20queue%20at%20the%20gate.
- https://www.vueling.com/en/vueling-services/prepare-your-trip/luggage
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.