9 Best Backpacks for Europe 2026

Lightweight, flight-ready, and built for versatility, this backpack punches above its weight with thoughtful design touches that solve real travel pain points. At just 2 lbs, it’s one of the lightest carry-ons available, making it ideal for travelers who dread hauling heavy bags through terminals. The 15.6” laptop compartment and wet/dry separation system stand out—especially the high-density waterproof pocket that keeps damp gear from ruining clothes. Whether you’re switching shoes after a flight or storing sweaty workout clothes post-gym, these features deliver real-world convenience without cluttering the design.

In testing, the backpack sailed through airport security thanks to its 180-degree lay-flat opening, letting me leave my laptop inside during screening. With dimensions of 16.5×11.9×7.9 inches, it fits both under seats and in overhead bins across major airlines like Delta and JetBlue. On short trips, it comfortably held three days’ worth of clothes, a tablet, shoes, and toiletries. However, the lack of a dedicated tablet sleeve and minimal back padding means it’s less suited for long walks or tech-heavy commutes. While it handles casual use well, extended urban exploration exposes its limited ventilation and support.

Compared to premium models like the Osprey Fairview, this pack trades durability and ergonomic refinement for affordability and simplicity. But for budget-conscious travelers or students needing a no-fuss, TSA-friendly daypack, it delivers where it counts. It’s not built for rugged trails or long-term abuse, but as a lightweight urban explorer’s companion, it outperforms many in its price range. For those prioritizing minimal weight and maximum practicality, it offers better functionality than similarly priced duffels or basic school backpacks.

Engineered for endurance and elegance, the Osprey Fairview 40L is a masterclass in travel backpack design—durable, balanced, and intelligently tailored for women on the move. Its standout feature? The stowable harness and hipbelt, which tuck neatly away when checking the bag, then deploy instantly for comfortable carrying during layovers or city walks. The adjustable torso fit ensures a personalized carry, while the 16” laptop sleeve and external toiletry pocket make organization effortless. For travelers tired of one-size-fits-all packs, this one solves the fit-and-function gap with precision.

Real-world testing across Europe confirmed its carry-on compatibility—it slipped easily into overhead bins on Ryanair, Lufthansa, and EasyJet flights. The 40L capacity handled a 10-day trip with room for souvenirs, thanks to compression straps and well-placed pockets. The ventilated mesh back panel and padded shoulder straps made all-day wear comfortable, even on cobblestone streets. However, the lack of a dedicated wet pocket means damp items risk soiling clothes unless packed separately. While it excels in urban settings, its soft-sided build isn’t ideal for rough handling or extreme weather.

Against the LOVEVOOK and BAGOK models, the Fairview justifies its premium with superior ergonomics and long-term durability. It’s not the roomiest, but it strikes the best balance between portability, comfort, and build quality. The seamless transition from flight to hike to hostel makes it ideal for female travelers who value both style and substance. Compared to budget 40L packs, it offers better weight distribution and craftsmanship, making it worth the investment for frequent flyers.

Fashion-forward and function-rich, the LOVEVOOK backpack redefines what a women’s travel pack should be—spacious, stylish, and smartly compartmentalized. With a 40L capacity and 17.3” laptop sleeve, it caters to professionals and adventurers alike, offering room for a full wardrobe, tech gear, and accessories. The built-in wet bag and isolated shoe pouch are game-changers, especially for travelers bouncing from gym to airport to hotel. What truly sets it apart is the premium aesthetic—scratch-resistant fabric and sleek lines make it stand out in a sea of generic black backpacks.

During a week-long test in Paris and Amsterdam, the backpack proved airline-ready and security-smart, with smooth 180-degree opening and TSA-friendly layout. The ergonomic mesh straps stayed comfortable even during long metro walks, and the reinforced zippers handled daily use without snagging. It easily fit under seats on EasyJet and Spirit flights. However, the lack of a stowable harness makes it less convenient when checked, and the bulk can feel overwhelming for petite users. While it’s great for carry-on use, it’s not designed for hands-free hiking or rugged terrain.

Next to the Osprey Fairview, the LOVEVOOK wins on style and included extras—like three packing cubes—but falls short in adjustability and back support. It’s not as technical, but for fashion-conscious women who want versatility without sacrificing looks, it’s a top contender. Compared to unisex budget packs, it offers better organization and a more tailored carry, making it a standout choice for style-savvy travelers.

Big on value and expandable space, the MATEIN backpack is a budget traveler’s dream—offering 45L of packable volume without sacrificing carry-on compliance. The zippered expansion panel adds crucial extra room for souvenirs or winter layers, a rare feature at this price. Its convertible design—with hideaway straps and suitcase pass-through—makes it incredibly versatile, shifting from backpack to duffel in seconds. For weekend warriors and digital nomads, this flexible, no-frills workhorse solves the “I need just a little more space” dilemma.

In real use, the backpack handled 4-day trips with ease, fitting a laptop, camera gear, and multiple outfits. The air-mesh back panel and sternum strap helped distribute weight, though long walks revealed its limited lumbar support. At 19×13×8 inches, it met carry-on limits for JetBlue and Spirit but felt slightly tight in smaller overhead bins. The external compression straps kept contents secure, but the water-resistant (not waterproof) material struggled in heavy rain. Still, for under $25, it outperforms many pricier alternatives in raw utility.

When stacked against the BAGOK expandable model, the MATEIN offers similar capacity at a lower cost, but with fewer organizational pockets. It’s not as sleek as the tomtoc or as durable as Osprey, but for travelers who want maximum bang for minimal buck, it’s hard to beat. Compared to basic daypacks, it delivers superior expandability and travel-specific features, making it the go-to for cost-conscious globetrotters.

The ultimate shape-shifter, the BAGOK backpack shines with its intelligent expandable design—starting at 35L and stretching to 40L with a simple zipper pull, giving travelers on-demand extra space without going oversized. This makes it perfect for return trips loaded with purchases or last-minute packing. The TSA-friendly 180° lay-flat opening and 17.3” laptop sleeve streamline security checks, while the hidden anti-theft pocket adds peace of mind in crowded stations. For travelers who hate being boxed in by fixed capacity, this pack offers unmatched adaptability.

Field-tested on multiple European flights, it cleared carry-on checks on Lufthansa and Air France with ease. The high-density waterproof wet pocket kept damp towels and toiletries isolated, a small luxury that elevates daily use. The breathable back panel and luggage pass-through strap made airport transfers smooth, though the shoulder straps showed slight sag after extended wear. While it handles city travel brilliantly, the lack of a hipbelt means it’s less stable with heavy loads. Still, its gender-neutral design and multipurpose use make it a go-to for couples or shared travel.

Against the MATEIN, the BAGOK offers better organization and a more premium feel, though at a slightly higher cost. It doesn’t match the Osprey’s ergonomics, but it delivers more smart features than most budget packs. For travelers who want flexible storage and theft-resistant design, it outshines rigid carry-ons. Compared to non-expandable models, it provides greater packing freedom without airline penalties.

Built for the wild, not the terminal, the WoneNice 50L backpack is a rugged outdoor beast—designed for hikers, campers, and adventurers who prioritize capacity and durability over airline compliance. With a 50L volume, sleeping bag compartment, and included rain cover, it’s ready for multi-day treks through rain or shine. The S-type shoulder straps and high-elastic back support distribute weight efficiently, reducing fatigue on long trails. For travelers exploring national parks or mountain villages, this pack delivers serious outdoor performance at a fraction of premium brand costs.

In real-world trail testing, it handled 3-day hikes with ease, carrying tents, cooking gear, and extra layers. The mesh side pockets held water bottles securely, and the tear-resistant polyester-nylon blend shrugged off brush and gravel. However, its 19.5×15×11-inch profile exceeds most carry-on limits, making it a poor fit for flights. The lack of TSA-friendly features like lay-flat laptop access means it’s not travel-smart for air routes. While comfortable outdoors, the thick padding feels bulky in urban heat.

Compared to the SHRRADOO 50L tech backpack, the WoneNice wins on outdoor functionality and included rain cover, but loses on urban convenience. It’s not a replacement for a carry-on, but for nature-first travelers, it’s a reliable companion. Against smaller packs, it offers unmatched storage and weather resistance, making it ideal for off-grid adventures.

A tech-lover’s dream pack, the SHRRADOO 50L backpack is loaded with digital conveniences—most notably its built-in USB charging port and internal cable, allowing seamless phone charging on the go. With 20 pockets and a 17-inch laptop sleeve, it’s a hyper-organized powerhouse for students, remote workers, or gadget-heavy travelers. The U-shaped 3D ventilation back keeps airflow steady during long commutes, while the password lock and hidden compartments add security in crowded spaces. For anyone who’s ever fumbled for a charger at a train station, this pack is a game-changing solution.

In use, the USB port worked flawlessly with a portable power bank, and the oversized 50L capacity handled a week’s worth of gear. However, its 19.5×15×11-inch size exceeds most airline carry-on limits, making it risky for flights. The lack of compression straps led to internal shifting, and the thick padding made it hot in summer cities. While it passed as carry-on on some budget airlines, it was borderline on others. The sturdy zippers and sponge pads offered comfort, but the weight distribution felt uneven when fully loaded.

Next to the WoneNice 50L, it shares size and capacity but adds tech-first features absent in outdoor models. Compared to business-focused packs like SwissGear, it offers more charging options but less professional organization. For tech-dependent travelers who don’t fly often, it’s a powerful tool. Against smaller carry-ons, it sacrifices airline compliance for raw utility and connectivity.

Where sustainability meets sophistication, the tomtoc 40L backpack is a premium performer—crafted from 100% recycled PET fabric and built with YKK zippers and PFAS-free materials, making it a conscience-conscious traveler’s ideal pack. Its 90°-180° laptop compartment opens fully for TSA checks, and the 3D padded back panel delivers exceptional comfort during long hauls. With space for a 17.3” laptop, iPad, and full travel kit, it balances eco-design with high-end functionality—rare in any price range.

Testing across Germany and Italy confirmed its carry-on reliability—it fit effortlessly in overhead bins and under seats. The front-access main compartment made retrieving items mid-flight easy, and the luggage pass-through strap stayed secure on bumpy trains. The recycled fabric proved durable and water-resistant, though not fully waterproof. While the organization is top-tier, the lack of a stowable harness limits checked-bag versatility. Still, for eco-minded professionals, it’s a statement of values and performance.

Versus the Osprey Fairview, the tomtoc matches on capacity and comfort but wins on sustainability and interior layout. It’s more expensive than LOVEVOOK or MATEIN but justifies it with eco-materials and refined details. For travelers who want luxury without environmental cost, it outperforms most competitors. Compared to standard business packs, it offers better ethics and equal functionality.

Engineered for business efficiency, the SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart is a security-savvy powerhouse—built around its laptop-in-case airport scanning tech, allowing you to keep your 17” device inside during TSA checks. The RFID-blocking organizer protects credit cards and passports from digital theft, a must for city travelers. With an accordion file holder, tablet pocket, and trolley strap, it’s a mobile office on your back. For professionals who fly weekly, this pack eliminates friction at every checkpoint.

In real use, the ScanSmart compartment worked flawlessly—no laptop removal needed at security. The airflow back padding and molded top handle made transfers between meetings smooth, and the reflective accents boosted visibility at night. At 31L, it’s smaller than 40L travel packs, so weekend trips required tight packing. The side pockets fit water bottles, but the main compartment lacks expandability. While comfortable, the shoulder straps compress over time under heavy loads.

Compared to the tomtoc and Osprey, it’s less spacious but more focused on business needs. It doesn’t offer the eco-appeal of tomtoc or the adventure-readiness of Osprey, but for corporate travelers, it’s unmatched in security and organization. Against budget tech packs, it delivers better protection and professional polish, making it the top pick for business efficiency.