Best Travel Backpack for Women: Top Picks for Comfort & Style

Finding the best travel backpack for women has been a journey in itself.

I’ll never forget packing for a month-long adventure across Europe, thinking my bulky old pack would do the trick—only to discover, at the airport, that my shoulders were already sore, and I hadn’t even left yet!

After years of travel trial and error, and now feeling pretty darn confident in knowing my way around the essentials of traveling as a woman, I’ve learned that a truly great backpack isn’t just about capacity; it’s about comfort, balance, and smart organization.

Just like the best travel purse, the right backpack keeps you moving with ease, no matter if you’re trekking the rugged trails of New Zealand or navigating a bustling city like Rome.

In this list, I’ve pulled together backpacks that meet every need for women travelers, from optimal weight distribution to weather-resistant materials, and all in designs that fit a woman’s frame comfortably.

Here are my top picks for backpacks that go the distance, whether for a weekend getaway or a month abroad. Let’s find the one that makes your next adventure a joy, not a hassle!

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What is the Best Travel Backpack for Women?

Osprey Fairview 40L (Top Pick)| Shop here*

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (Best Water Resistant) | Shop here*

Gregory Juno 30 (Best for Hiking) | Shop here*

Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 (Best Anti-Theft) | Shop here*

Peak Design 45L (Best Customizable) | Shop here*

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Here's My List of the Best Travel Backpacks for Women

When I started this list, I wanted it to reflect my years of travel experience and all the details that truly make a difference on the road. From trial runs around California’s Anza Borrego Desert to journeys across Europe and the Pacific, I’ve learned firsthand that a backpack can make or break a trip.

Each one of these backpacks has been carefully selected based on quality, comfort, and function, so you can focus on your adventure and not on fussing with uncomfortable gear. I combed through reviews, tested features in real-life situations, and made sure each option works well for a woman’s frame, even for long days of exploring.

In short, these aren’t just bags I’d recommend—they’re ones I’d use myself or give to the people I care about. If it’s on this list, it’s because it’s something that makes a difference. Let’s find the one that’s right for you.

Here they are:

Osprey Fairview 40L (My Top Pick)

Best Overall

Pricing: $159.99

Capacity: 40L

Why I Like It: 

The Osprey Fairview 40L is my go-to for longer trips when I need a durable bag that's easy on my back. Its women-specific design, with an adjustable harness system and padded hip belt, makes it feel lighter even when packed to the brim. I’ve taken it through Rome’s narrow streets and on rugged hikes in Utah, and it holds up beautifully in both city and nature. The clamshell main compartment access is a lifesaver for easy packing, while internal compression straps keep everything secure. With a thoughtful design that avoids extra baggage fees, it’s my top choice for organized, hassle-free travel.

Shop Osprey here* 

Image @ Osprey

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Best Water Resistant

Pricing: $225.00

Capacity: 35L

Why I Like It: 

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is built for adventures in challenging environments, making it a perfect fit for trips where weather can be unpredictable. I learned this firsthand while navigating Vanuatu's rugged landscapes, where sudden rain showers can appear out of nowhere. The Allpa’s water-resistant exterior, combined with the included rain cover, kept my belongings dry even when caught in a downpour. The clamshell design allows for effortless organization, so I didn’t have to waste time rummaging through my bag when the rain hit.

Its multiple compartments and mesh pockets keep gear separated and accessible, and I found the hip belt added much-needed support during hikes on uneven terrain. While the bag is a bit compact for longer trips, it’s ideal for travel lasting a few days to a week. It’s not just about surviving the elements; it’s about doing it comfortably and confidently.

Shop Cotopaxi here* 

Image @ Cotopaxi

Gregory Juno 30

Best for Hiking

Pricing: $149.95

Capacity: 30L

Why I Like It: 

The Gregory Juno 30 was a perfect companion on my recent trip through Europe, where I needed a reliable daypack for exploring both cities and scenic trails. With its lightweight build and a ventilated VaperSpan back panel, it kept me cool and comfortable, even after hours of wear. I especially appreciated the hydration sleeve—it made staying refreshed easy, and the supportive hip belt kept the weight balanced. For me, it was the perfect size for a day’s worth of essentials without feeling bulky, and the added front mesh pocket was a quick spot for stashing anything damp, like a small umbrella after sudden rain showers.

Overall, this travel backpack is versatile enough for various settings, and with features tailored specifically for women, it provides the kind of comfort and functionality that makes a day of hiking or sightseeing that much easier.

Shop Gregory here* 

Image @ Gregory

Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35*

Best Anti-Theft

Pricing: $239.00

Capacity:

Why I Like It: 

During my time exploring the vibrant streets and rugged trails of Baja, I relied on the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 to keep my essentials safe in bustling areas. With lockable zippers on every compartment and the bag’s durable eXomesh lining, I could navigate crowded markets and tourist spots with confidence, knowing my things were secure. The laptop compartment adds extra utility, with a padded laptop sleeve that protects my device during travel, making it easy to access at airport security. The PopNLock security clip also lets me anchor the shoulder straps to a fixed object when I’m stopping for a quick coffee, adding even more peace of mind. While the bag has plenty of zippers, which can jingle a bit, the organization and security make it a top choice for those trips where a little extra protection goes a long way.

Shop Pacsafe here* 

Image @ Pacsafe

Peak Design 45L*

Best Customizable

Pricing: $299.95

Capacity: 45L

Why I Like It: 

The Peak Design 45L isn’t just a photographer’s dream; it’s also the perfect all-around travel bag for women who love options. I took it on a recent trip to the Anza Borrego Desert, and even my husband (and personal travel photographer), Thom, couldn’t resist trying it out for its convenient camera attachments and tripod holder. It fits everything we need, from travel essentials to a full camera kit, with compartments that keep everything secure and accessible.

The peak design travel backpack expands from 30 to 45 liters, letting me keep it compact for day trips or expand it fully when I need extra space. The clamshell opening is a huge plus for quick organization, and side access pockets make grabbing my essentials on the go so much easier. For solo trips or days I need to carry just the basics, it even compresses down to a sleek 30L daypack.

Shop Peak Design here* 

Image @ Peak Design

Backpack vs. Suitcase: When to Use Which

When planning a trip, choosing between a backpack and a suitcase can impact comfort and convenience. Generally, if you're heading to a destination where you'll stay put and won’t be moving around frequently—like a relaxing resort stay or a family visit—a suitcase might be more practical.

Suitcases are easier to wheel through airports, hotels, and paved streets and tend to keep your belongings organized and wrinkle-free.

However, for travel that includes hiking, camping, or destinations with rough terrain (think my trips to places like Vanuatu or exploring trails in Utah), a travel backpack offers the freedom and mobility you’ll want.

Backpacks are hands-free, offer flexible storage, and are designed to balance the weight comfortably on your body, making them ideal for more adventurous, on-the-go trips.

For shorter stays, a well-organized backpack can be a minimalist’s dream, packing all the essentials without the bulk of a rolling suitcase.

Packing Tips for a Stress-Free Trip

Packing well can make all the difference in your travel experience, and over the years, I've picked up some go-to tricks to keep things light, organized, and ready for anything.

• Use Packing Cubes: They keep everything organized and save space. I like to separate my clothing, toiletries, and electronics to make things easy to grab and go.

• Create a Mini Wellness Kit: Wellness essentials, like supplements and mini skincare items, fit perfectly in a small pouch. I always pack Wellness Formula and No JetLag tablets; they’re lifesavers for staying healthy and minimizing jet lag.

• Downsize Your Toiletries: Packing a full skincare routine isn't necessary. Instead, I pack essentials in a contact lens case, which saves space and keeps it compact—perfect for quick touch-ups on the go.

• Maximize Backpack Storage: Use external compartments for water bottles or items you'll need throughout the day. If you’re bringing a travel water bottle, make sure it’s accessible but secured to avoid spills. Water bottle pockets are ideal for this.

• Roll Your Clothes: Rolling clothing saves space and helps reduce wrinkles, especially for longer items like pants and dresses. This is especially helpful in a backpack to maximize space in each compartment.

These packing tips simplify travel prep and keep your essentials ready, helping you stay focused on the adventure ahead.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right travel backpack is about choosing one that matches your travel style, whether you’re a frequent flyer, a nature lover, or a city explorer.

Each of these backpacks has been tested and handpicked to support a variety of needs—from handling unpredictable climates to fitting snugly in airplane overheads or offering the security needed in bustling cities. I’ve designed this list to help you make the best choice for your journeys, ensuring that whatever backpack you choose, it will help you travel with confidence, comfort, and a bit of adventure.

Happy travels, and remember: it’s not just the destinations that matter but the experiences along the way.

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Ensuring you have all the right essentials can ease your stress, allowing you to fully enjoy your journey and focus on what truly matters—your personal growth and well-being.

If you're ready to travel with ease and confidence, click here to learn more about my life coaching services and schedule a consultation today. Let's make your next trip stress-free and truly fulfilling.

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FAQs

What is the best backpack to take on a plane?

The best backpack to take on a plane is compact enough to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat but spacious and organized enough to carry your essentials. I recommend something in the 35-45L range, like the Osprey Fairview 40L, which fits most carry-on requirements and is designed with convenient compartments for easy access. A clamshell design can make it even easier to access items on the go, and look for lockable zippers if security is a priority.

What is a good backpack for traveling?

A good travel backpack balances comfort, organization, and durability. Backpacks like the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35, which includes anti-theft features, or the Gregory Juno 30, ideal for hiking, are excellent options depending on your travel style. Choose a bag with features that suit your needs, like easy-to-reach internal pockets, secure compartments, and adjustable straps, especially if you’re traveling to rugged destinations or plan on carrying heavier items.

What is the best size backpack for traveling?

The best size backpack for travel depends on your trip duration and how lightly you pack. For trips under a week, a 30-35L backpack is often perfect, offering enough space for essentials without weighing you down. For longer trips or if you’re bringing extra gear, a 40-45L backpack can work well as a carry-on that still maximizes capacity without being too heavy.

What size backpack is best for carry-on luggage?

Most airlines accept backpacks up to 45L as carry-ons, though it’s wise to check specific airline requirements. Backpacks in the 30-45L range, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L or the Peak Design 45L, provide enough room for essentials while meeting size restrictions. A structured design can help keep your gear organized and make it easier to access items during your flight.