The Best Backpacks for Travel, School, Work, and Wherever Life Takes You

The backpack has numerous zippered compartments and pockets, including a padded laptop compartment that accommodates laptops up to 17 inches in size. And thanks to the convenient built-in USB charger, you can charge your phone on the go (cable and battery are not included). The back panel pass-through luggage sleeve fits most luggage handles, making this backpack a solid choice for both work and travel.

The Samsonite Tectonic is durable and composed of nylon and polyester, with a water-resistant coating, so you can brave the elements while minimizing stress on your back.

When selecting a backpack for back pain, Kira Capozzolo, a doctor of chiropractic at Twin Waves Wellness Center in Solana Beach, California, recommends looking for padded and ergonomic shoulder straps with both chest and hip straps, as well as a structured back panel with lumbar support. “These features help distribute weight evenly and reduce the load on the shoulders and lower back — key for anyone with back pain or posture issues,” Capozzolo says.

At under $50, this backpack is budget-friendly and reliable for children and adults alike; it remains a classic for good reason in our opinion. Weighing less than 1 pound, this backpack features a generous 26-liter capacity, with a large, lined interior compartment and an interior pocket that’s perfect for a laptop, books, or folders. The front zipper pocket provides built-in organization, and an exterior pocket is ideal for holding a water bottle. The padded back panel and adjustable, padded shoulder straps add comfort, and each zipper has long ties for easy opening and closing. The tall webbed handle is a thoughtful detail that makes it easy to grab or hang the bag.

The JanSport SuperBreak Plus is constructed of durable polyester, and we like the plethora of choices, including basic colors, playful animal prints, and even corduroy textures.

Inexpensive backpacks shouldn’t compromise fit and comfort. Per Capozzolo, look for adjustable padded straps, a lightweight build, and a padded back, and steer clear of floppy, unstructured packs. Even at a lower price point, this JanSport backpack offers function and fun frills.

Whether it’s a puddle jumper or a transatlantic flight, the Nomatic Navigator Pack 15L is a favorite among our experts, who appreciate its well-structured build, expandable capacity, and sleek design.

With packing essentials in mind, this backpack is ideal for travel, thanks to its 15-liter capacity that expands to 21 liters. An internal pocket can hold a laptop of up to 16 inches, and a false bottom provides extra protection for your device.

There are plenty of other thoughtful design details, including a hidden front pocket, a radio frequency identification (RFID)-safe pocket, five mesh organization pockets, and tamper-proof zippers. A clever water bottle holder conveniently hides away when not in use and won’t take up valuable space.

Additionally, there is an external pass-through luggage strap, allowing you to stack your backpack on your other rolling luggage when traveling.

The bag is constructed of nylon and polyester, with a water-resistant exterior that can withstand the elements. A reflective strip keeps you visible and safer at night. And if your bag happens to get a little beat up during your travels, Nomatic offers a lifetime warranty of repairs, so you can feel confident for future trips.

Capozzolo recommends looking for a travel backpack with several compartments to balance weight, as well as a padded back panel, chest strap, and suitcase-style opening. Since travel backpacks are often heavy and worn for long periods, she suggests a “backpack that hugs the body and keeps the center of gravity close.”

When it comes to kids’ backpacks, pediatric physical therapist Brittany Nardone, a doctor of physical therapy in River Vale, New Jersey, likes the Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie backpack because of its “well-sized design for young kids, adjustable padded straps, and chest clip for better alignment.”

And I agree; this backpack has been a staple in our home and has withstood years of use for both school and travel. Available in several sizes — including mini, small, large, roller, and adaptive options — I especially appreciate the assortment of child-friendly designs and the customized embroidery options.

The main compartment has plenty of room for a lunch box, binders, folders, small instruments, and your child’s artwork. A smaller zippered pocket includes a built-in section for pencils and notecards, and there are two elastic-hemmed external water bottle holders, making it easy for your little one to grab their container. My children are especially fond of the myriad places to hang their collectible keychains. The breathable, cushioned back and shoulder straps are comfortable, even when the bag is full.

When it comes to fit and design, Dr. Nardone emphasizes that the “right backpack can make a big difference in a child’s posture, comfort, and overall musculoskeletal health, especially during the school year when they’re wearing it daily.” Thanks to its smart design and kid-friendly elements, the Mackenzie is our go-to backpack for littles.

Whether you’re traversing a summit or taking a leisurely trail walk, you want a backpack that’s built to support you without weighing you down. Our experts both recommend the Osprey Tempest 22 backpack, which is designed for active women (Osprey also has a men’s line called Talon) and can handle the elements.

The Tempest 22 boasts a 22-liter capacity. While it’s crafted to be lightweight, this pack can still hold up to 30 pounds of gear. The main compartment has plenty of room, with several mesh pockets for storage. The back panel is breathable, so you won’t get extra sweaty during those climbs.

Your body will feel supported and comfortable using the adjustable harness that fits various torso sizes, adjustable sternum strap with an attached safety whistle, and padded hip belt featuring dual-zippered pockets. There are plenty of other features, including places to stow or hold your keys, helmet, ice axe, and trekking poles. There’s even an internal reservoir so you can stay hydrated.

All materials are made from recycled polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-free nylon and are Bluesign approved, meaning they’ve undergone testing to meet certain environmental requirements, are free of harmful substances, and are made with responsible use of resources.

For hiking backpacks, Capozzolo suggests looking for an “internal frame, padded hip belt, adjustable torso length, and breathable back panel.” She explains that hiking backpacks need to shift weight to the hips and off the shoulders to help “keep the spine aligned and reduce fatigue over long treks.” Thanks to its customizable fit and adventure-ready extras, the Osprey Tempest 22 ticks all the boxes.

Whether you commute by train, car, bus, or foot, the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe keeps your computer safe while you're heading to work and also provides plenty of thoughtful space for all your professional needs.

This backpack has a 20-liter capacity, with a padded laptop sleeve that holds a laptop of up to 17 inches. Several other pockets keep you organized, and there's a water bottle holder. With comfort in mind, the shoulder straps are adjustable, padded, and contoured for ultimate wearability, and the soft, mesh back panel adds breathability.

This backpack is constructed with several thoughtful design elements. It is made of recycled nylon, with a water-resistant exterior, while the bottom of the bag is waterproof to repel any puddles while commuting. The two straps on the bottom make it easy to cinch it tight. The back panel also features a convenient luggage pass-through strap to secure your laptop bag to your rolling luggage, allowing you to bring your laptop with you while traveling.

When researching laptop backpacks, Capozzolo recommends looking for a padded laptop sleeve near the back panel and not far from the spine. She also likes structured compartments and ergonomic straps. “It’s important to keep heavy items close to the spine,” Capozzolo says. “When laptops sit too far back in the bag, it pulls your shoulders backward and strains your neck.”

Not only does the REI Flash 22 Pack weigh under 1 pound but this lightweight backpack includes a removable sitting pad, so you can rest and take in the view.

The REI Flash 22 has a generous 22-liter capacity. The main compartment is cinched with several organizational pockets. The main compartment stays covered by an attached soft lid that secures to the external pack with two buckles. There are two zippered side-entry pockets and two deep external pockets, perfect for holding water bottles. Other elements include a trekking pole attachment, sunglasses loop, and internal hydration reservoir holder sleeve (reservoir not included). Nonslip ties are attached to the zippers for easy opening and closing.

The shoulder straps are padded, and the sternum strap can be detached. The back panel is made of mesh for breathability, and the mesh hip belt can be used or stored away as needed.

This backpack is constructed of recycled ripstop nylon, with a polyurethane coating that’s water-repellent and Bluesign approved, so you can take this bag with you rain or shine.

When it comes to lightweight backpacks, Capozzolo suggests bags with minimalist designs, comfortable straps, and if possible, a sternum strap to help stabilize the load. Bear in mind, “bags with less weight are good, but if a backpack lacks structure, it can slump or sway on your back and throw off your posture, especially during prolonged wear,” she says.

For an unfussy backpack that can take on the elements, the Kulkea Käydä Travel Backpack is tough to beat. Designed for outdoor adventure seekers, this durable backpack is engineered to withstand rigorous use.

This 40-liter capacity bag boasts plenty of unique features, including an attachable 5-liter travel kit, a luggage pass-through strap, and a laptop protection pocket, allowing you to take this bag on all your travels. There’s even a magnetic water bottle holder and a retractable helmet or jacket sling. Plus, the bag converts to a ski or snow boot bag, making it ideal for those fresh powder days.

The Käydä has an ergonomic back panel and contoured, breathable shoulder straps. The detachable sternum strap and the waist belt adapt to your fit and needs. The sturdy bag is constructed from water-resistant polyester and ballistic nylon, featuring ventilation grommets to prevent mold and excess moisture. The Käydä should be able to endure years of wear and tear, whether you’re on the slopes or backpacking around the world.

When it comes to durable bags, Capozzolo advises looking for reinforced seams, weather-resistant materials, and a stable build with firm back support. “Durability isn’t just about wear and tear; it’s also about structural support. A saggy, overused backpack can collapse against your back and lead to poor posture over time,” she says.