10 Best Travel Backpacks Australia to Buy in 2023

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Looking for the best travel backpacks in Australia?

We recently acquired a new travel backpack for our family’s adventures. As there are numerous options, we spent quite some time researching the top travel backpack brands. I perused many travel backpack reviews to determine which backpacks would suit our family’s present requirements.

After years of experience travelling, I understand it’s crucial to contemplate a few things before impulsively purchasing a pack. First, consider who will carry the backpack, what items will it hold, and whether you need a laptop backpack to protect your device or if a budget-friendly travel backpack will suffice.

Comfort is another significant aspect; the finest travel bags are typically lightweight and fit your back and shoulders snugly, so you can travel without fretting about back and neck discomfort. We’re planning a trip to the UK and wanted something comfortable for a longer journey.

To spare you hours of research, I’ve assembled this Australian backpacks guide, which will assist you in answering these questions. I’ve gathered information on some of the leading travel backpacks from the finest backpack brands, along with their various features, so you can select the perfect backpacking bag for your needs.

Top 10 Best Travel Backpacks Australia 2023

Here’s a useful reference list of the finest travel backpacks available in Australia – see all comprehensive travel backpack reviews below!

• Gregory Mountain Baltoro Backpack, 65L
• Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack, 55L
• Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack, 50L
• Osprey Nebula 34 Laptop Backpack, 34L
• Asenlin Travel Backpack, 40L
• Zomake Packable Lightweight Backpack, 35L
• Thule AllTrail Women’s Backpack, 45L
• Osprey Women’s Aura 50 AG Backpack, 50L
• Cabin Max® Equator 44L Backpack, 44L

Top Travel Backpack Reviews Australia 2023

In this article, we evaluate our top picks for the finest backpacks for travelling.

NOMATIC McKinnon Camera Backpack 25L

Rating: 5

Specifications:

• Type: Camera
• Capacity: 25L
• Weight: 1.3kg
• Dimensions: 7.5″ D x 13″ W x 19″ H

We recently purchased the Nomatic McKinnon which although is expensive has been worth every penny we have spent on it.

It is particularly worth it if you are looking for a great camera backpack as it is durable, good quality and has great compartments.

Buy it here.

 

Gregory Mountain Baltoro 65L Review

Rating: 4.5

Specifications:

• Type: Main
• Capacity: 65L
• Weight: 2.5kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 69 x 28 x 43 cm

The Gregory Mountain Baltoro 65L is one of the largest travel backpacks available and is most suitable for long trips or those seeking the best hiking packs in Australia. With a massive capacity and plenty of features to ensure comfort during extended periods, this backpack is sure to please.

The unique design of this backpack keeps the load stable, making it easier to carry. With a 65L capacity and numerous pockets and storage compartments, this backpack will keep you organised while travelling.

The backpack features ‘free float suspension’, and the material allows for additional airflow as well as moisture-wicking mesh. The wide hip belt includes a pocket for easy access to smaller items like phones or wallets, and suspension that aligns with your hips for a comfortable fit. 

Of course, a huge backpack like this won’t be perfect for everybody, but it will be a years long investment for the right type of customer.

Buy it here.

Asenlin Travel Backpack Review

Rating: 4.5

Specifications:

• Type: Main/Laptop
• Capacity: 40L
• Weight: 2kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 47 x 32 x 24 cm

The Asenlin is a functional and intuitively designed bag, offering plenty of space with a 40-litre capacity. This upgraded bag features a large main compartment that opens fully for easy packing and organisation. It also includes three packing cubes – small, medium, and large – to simplify organisation. The front organisation pocket can hold loose items, and a rear laptop pocket can accommodate a 17″ laptop.

Comfortable shoulder straps and compression straps complete this backpack, which has been reinforced for strength and is available in a range of stylish designs.

Click here to check the price and read more reviews.

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack Review

Rating: 4.5

Specifications:

• Type: Main
• Capacity: 55L
• Weight: 1.8kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 61 x 33 x 33 cm

The Osprey Travel Backpack is designed to support loads of up to 25 kgs. It comes with a detachable daypack that includes a laptop sleeve and a scratch-free pocket for your eyewear. The Farpoint 55 is water-resistant, thanks to its Nylon Ripstop fabric.

These Osprey backpacks provide access to the main compartment through a large zippered panel that can be secured with locks. The laptop and tablet sleeve is also lockable. Internal and external compression straps enable you to secure items inside the backpack and reduce the overall external size if needed.

A thoughtful design, the trademark LightWire frame suspension system transfers the backpack’s weight to the hip belt, relieving your shoulders from strain. A frame sheet distributes the weight across your back. These Osprey packs offer the option to stow the shoulder straps and hip belt in a zippered compartment, streamlining your luggage for transport.

Osprey is a respected brand with excellent customer service, and the Osprey Farpoint 55 is a well-designed pack with comfort in mind.

Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.

Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack Review

Rating: 4.0

Specifications:

• Type: Main
• Capacity: 50L
• Weight: 1.6kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 66 x 41 x 30 cm

If you’re looking for a comfortable and no-frills backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack may be the perfect fit for you. It has a simple design that focuses on providing the utmost comfort to its wearer.

The suspension system of this backpack allows for easy on-body adjustments. You can loosen all the straps before putting on the pack and then tighten them while wearing it to achieve a customized fit.

You can access the main compartment from the top zippered panel or through a larger zippered panel below the compression straps. The back panel is padded and ventilated to ensure you stay cool while carrying the backpack.

The backpack has a padded hydration sleeve that also doubles as a laptop pocket. However, there is no dedicated laptop sleeve. You can also use the deep side panel/pockets to carry tent poles or a fishing rod.

Some reviewers have pointed out the lack of certain features, such as no rain cover pocket at the bottom of the pack, no internal compression straps, and no lockable zippers. However, despite these shortcomings, the Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack still has received excellent ratings, and many users consider it the best 50L backpack in the market.

Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.

Osprey Nebula 34 Laptop Backpack Review

Rating: 4.0

Specifications:

• Type: Laptop
• Capacity: 34L
• Weight: 1.1kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 48 x 31 x 30 cm

The Osprey carry-on backpack boasts numerous pockets and ample space for a laptop backpack. With a sleek design and lockable zippers, reviews suggest this bag offers great value for money.

Osprey describes the Nebula as suitable for urban to trail use, making it durable enough for travel, commuting, or occasional outdoor trips. Key features include a blinker light attachment for nighttime cycling, a separate zippered access padded laptop sleeve, a large organisation front pocket, and a top grab handle. Mesh pockets, located on the sides and front and within the organisation pocket, provide quick access and easy visibility.

The suspended mesh ventilated back panel helps keep you cool by creating airflow between the pack and your back. The removable hip belt offers additional versatility.

The hanging padded laptop sleeve keeps your laptop off the ground and close to your back for a more comfortable carry. The Osprey Nebula is an excellent choice for those seeking the best small travel backpack.

Click here to check the price and read more reviews.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack in Australia 2023

Zomake Packable Lightweight Backpack Review

Rating: 4.0

Specifications:

• Type: Carry-On
• Capacity: 35L
• Weight: 0.3kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 33 x 24 x 42 cm

The Zomake Packable Lightweight Backpack is one of the lightest travel backpacks available. It is a foldable backpack designed for travellers who need plenty of space without unnecessary frills.

The bag arrives folded in a small package and unfolds to reveal the entire bag. With a 35L capacity and ultra-lightweight construction, this backpack is ideal for day trips or long weekend getaways. There are four compartments – the front pocket (which the bag folds in/out of), the main compartment, and two front zippered pockets for easy access to accessories.

While there may be concerns about weight distribution in such a lightweight backpack, the bag does a reasonably good job of remaining comfortable, even at its affordable price point. The shoulder straps, though not extremely comfortable, sit nicely. A front buckle secures the straps in place and reduces tension on your shoulders. Unfortunately, a hip strap is not included, which would have helped with weight balance.

The bag can also be somewhat challenging to fold down again. Side pockets for drinks, side buckles for load compression, and space for a laptop are also included. The lightweight design makes it ideal for carry-on, and there are several eye-catching colours to choose from. While not perfect, this bag is a good deal, available at a very low price

Click here to check the price and read more reviews.

Best Travel Backpack for Europe in Australia 2023

Thule AllTrail Women’s Backpack Review

Rating: 4.5

Specifications:

• Type: Main/For Women
• Capacity: 45L
• Weight: 1.4kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 62 x 30 x 32 cm

One of the best backpacks for women is the Thule AllTrail Women’s backpack. This bag is designed to be tailored to your individual dimensions, making it exceptionally comfortable for travel.

Women will appreciate the shoulder straps, which are among the best of any bag on the market – thick, sturdy, and high-quality. They feature a unique curved shape, which is better for contouring to your chest. The shoulder straps’ position can be height-adjusted, making it suitable for both short and tall individuals.

The hip strap is made of the same thick material, and one side can be used to add additional accessories (such as a drink bottle or camera holder) with an additional purchase.

The bag is relatively flat when empty and weighs around 1kg. This particular model has a 45L capacity, offering plenty of space. However, the same bag is also available in a 35L model – perfect for those seeking the best carry-on backpack Australia has to offer.

To pack, the bag is opened from the top, and you can easily access items directly from the zippered centre of the bag. Even when packed to capacity, it remains relatively thin. The side can be used to attach hiking accessories, and it is water-resistant with the included rain cover – essential for weathering all conditions. There is also space for a laptop.

Click here to check the price and read more reviews.

Best Travel Backpack for Women in Australia 2023

Osprey Women’s Aura 50 AG Backpack Review

Rating: 4.5

Specifications:

• Type: For Women
• Capacity: 50L
• Weight: 1.8kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 81 x 36 x 36 cm

The Osprey Women’s Aura 50 AG Backpack is a large pack that has received excellent reviews for its comfort features.

Focusing on creating a comfortable, larger-sized pack for women, Osprey has delivered with the Aura 50. Featuring a trademarked AntiGravity suspension system and a curved design, the Aura 50 effectively transfers weight to the comfortable hip belt. This is crucial for a pack of this size, as you don’t want to be burdened with neck and shoulder pain on the first day of a 10-day trip.

The harness is adjustable while you’re wearing the backpack, and the hip belt has pockets for snacks, phone, or sunscreen. The pack offers plenty of pockets without being confusing, along with compression straps, lockable zippers, and bottom storage for a sleeping bag.

This is a large pack that is thoughtfully designed. If extra space and comfort are high on your priority list, this might be the backpack for you.

Click here to check the price and read more reviews.

Cabin Max® Equator 44L Backpack Review

Rating: 4.5

Specifications:

• Type: Carry On
• Capacity: 44L
• Weight: 1.3kg
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 56 x 23 x 36 cm

The Cabin Max Equator 44L Backpack 2.0 is an upgraded version of the original Equator bag that was well-loved by travelers. This backpack is specifically designed to fit the carry-on restrictions of almost all major airlines, making it the perfect choice for those seeking the best backpack for carry-on.

The backpack features several zippered pockets and compartments. On the front, there are two zippered pockets and one with a D-ring for easy storage of keys. This section can be unclipped from the buckle to reveal a mesh screen, several other pockets, and a hidden pocket for valuables. Additionally, there is a felt pocket specifically designed for storing laptops up to 15 inches.

The main compartment of the bag has a removable dividing panel, allowing for easy organization of your belongings. It offers a vast amount of space with a 44L capacity.

The Cabin Max Equator 44L Backpack 2.0 is easy to carry, with grab handles on both the top and side. The backpack can be packed away like a carry bag when the shoulder straps are removed, making it convenient for travelers.

Comfort is prioritized with the 2.0 model, which has thicker shoulder straps and padded backing for added comfort. The backpack also has strengthened compression straps, room for hiking accessories and drink bottles, and is available in several stylish designs. A thin but appreciated hip strap is also included.

Overall, this Australian backpack is well-constructed and affordable. With a 3-year warranty, there’s very little not to love about the Cabin Max Equator 44L Backpack 2.0. 

Click here to check the price and read more reviews.

Why And When Is It Best To Travel With A Backpack?

The top backpacks in Australia aren’t only for young travellers staying in dormitories. A backpack is suited for various travellers who appreciate the freedom of hands-free movement without having to manoeuvre a cumbersome suitcase.

The best travel backpacks grant you flexibility when you encounter a flight of stairs or arrive at a hotel without an elevator. Additionally, a backpack is ideal for travelling with children, as it lets you keep your hands free to hold a little one’s hand without struggling to wheel a suitcase while ensuring the kids’ safety.

What To Consider When Buying The Best Travel Backpack Australia 2023?

Do you travel light? Are you physically fit? Do you need to carry a laptop or tent on your travels? What other factors should you consider when purchasing?

Travel backpack brands provide backpacks for everyone and every occasion; there isn’t a “one size fits all” backpack.

Whether you’re searching for the top hiking backpack Australia has, the best daypack for travel, or the ultimate backpack for Europe or Asia, it’s essential to take time to identify your backpack requirements and find the perfect one.

Size

Nowadays, purchasing backpacks online is simple (I recommend online shopping for travel backpacks, as it’s generally the most affordable option), but remember to consider size when doing so. If it’s too small, you won’t fit all your family’s belongings; too big, and you might have to check the bag or pay for excess luggage.

It’s also important to think about who will be carrying the backpack. A tall man and a petite woman have very different frames. I suggest aiming to find the best lightweight travel backpack that meets your needs in all other aspects.

Type

Many travellers these days prefer a carry-on backpack Australia has to offer, and there are some fantastic choices for the best carry-on luggage backpack. However, there are equally excellent bags with multiple compartments for those travellers who like to bring a lot of items with them.

When examining the top backpack brands in Australia and their products, consider whether you want a front-loading or top-loading bag. Essentially, this means deciding if you want to access your belongings through the top or the front of the bag. In my opinion, front-loading packs are far more convenient; they resemble a suitcase and typically have various compartments, making it easy to find your items.

Compartments

Speaking of compartments, when searching for the ideal backpack in Australia for you, consider what items you’ll carry and which ones you’ll need to access quickly and frequently. A sleeping bag or change of clothes doesn’t need to be as accessible as a rain cover, phone, camera, passport, tickets or laptop.

Internal compartments are essential for keeping things organised and easy to locate when needed. With many travellers taking various gadgets with them, there are excellent packs on the market with compartments designed to keep these items safe.

For instance, if you’re taking your laptop, you may want to consider the best laptop backpack Australia offers. In the reviews below, there are some fantastic options if you’re looking for the top laptop backpack for travel. These packs have compartments designed to keep your laptop secure and easily accessible while travelling.

Straps

Comfort is crucial when purchasing the best backpack for travel, and ergonomics are a priority for designers, which means the highest-quality backpacks come with comfortable straps.

A good strap system will distribute the backpack’s weight across your back, with most of the weight resting on your hips via the hip belt. Some of the best backpacks for travelling feature pockets in the hip belt for snacks or small phones.

Consider padding, breathable fabric, removability, adjustability, stowability for plane travel, and pocket availability when looking at straps.

Backpack straps are adjustable around the hips, shoulders, and even across the chest to keep the shoulder straps in place, regardless of body shape.

Other Key Features

Key features for outdoor travelling include water-resistant fabric, quick access to a rain cover, water, and snacks. If you plan to use it daily for work, study or commuting, a reflective strip or the option to attach a blinking light might be important for you.

There is no single “best backpack in the world”; it must suit your needs. Keep this in mind when choosing and try not to be dazzled by features.

Laptop/Other Gadget Compartments

If you travel with a laptop, look for a pack with a built-in laptop compartment. These compartments have padded sleeves designed to keep your laptop safe and secure while travelling.

Other packs have specific compartments for mobile phones, keys, passports, tickets, and cameras.

Carry Handles

Carry handles offer additional versatility. They mean you don’t always have to wear your backpack on your back; you may be able to stow your straps and carry it like a traditional suitcase. Carry handles also help when placing your bag in overhead plane lockers and on buses.

Water Resistance

Water-resistant fabric is a great feature for a backpack. It’s one less thing to worry about if it starts raining or if you accidentally spill something on your backpack. It gives you extra time to find shelter or grab your rain cover, ensuring your backpack and its contents are protected.

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See more:

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• Best camping lights
• Best travel pram