Choosing the right travel backpack is one of the most important kit decisions you'll make — get it right and it'll see you through countless adventures. At Le Bon Voyage, we offer a wide range of backpacks, each designed to meet specific travel needs.
1. Work out your main use case
Start by thinking about the type of travel you do most. Is it hiking, city breaks, or extended trips abroad? Each calls for different features. For hiking, you'll want strong back support and ergonomic straps. For city travel, a compact, secure bag — ideally anti-theft — is usually the smarter choice. If you're flying carry-on only, go for a cabin backpack. Travelling with a baby? A changing bag backpack is an absolute game-changer.
2. Size and capacity
Bag capacity is measured in litres. A small travel bag of 20–30 litres is typically plenty for day trips, while longer journeys generally call for 40 litres or more. Make sure you pick a bag that meets your capacity needs whilst staying within cabin baggage size restrictions if required. Don't overlook compression packing bags either — they're brilliant for squeezing more in without overpacking.
3. Comfort and ergonomics
Comfort is everything, particularly if you're wearing the bag for extended periods. Look for padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and — ideally — a hip belt to help distribute the load. Try different bags where possible to find the best fit for your build.
4. Durability and materials
The quality of the fabric makes a big difference to how long your bag lasts. High-density nylon, for example, stands up far better to wear and the elements. Check the quality of the zips, stitching, and buckles too — these are the details that matter on the road.
5. Compartments and accessibility
Bags with multiple compartments and pockets — including dedicated laptop backpacks — make organising your belongings far easier. Dedicated pockets for electronics, travel documents, and water bottles are particularly useful.
6. Security
If you're travelling to busy cities or tourist areas, security features are worth prioritising — lockable zips, hidden pockets for valuables, and cut-resistant materials are all worth looking for. Consider a waterproof backpack or an anti-theft backpack for extra peace of mind.
7. Style
Finally, choose a backpack that reflects your personal style. A great travel backpack isn't just a functional tool — it's an extension of how you move through the world. Get the right one and you'll reach for it every single time.
Keep all of these factors in mind and you'll find the travel backpack that's genuinely built for you — delivering comfort, function, and style on every journey ahead.