I love a good, all-purpose backpack. Especially if it saves me the time at check-in and baggage claim. And is there anything worse than wheeling around a suitcase that could have easily been carried?
So, I’ve compiled 8 functional, ergonomic, and stylish backpacks to save you time, stress, and hand-function for those sweet short getaway trips. Let’s dive in!
1. REI Co-op Ruckpack 30 Pack
The Ruckpack line from REI is a favorite of mine. Equipped with the standard laptop sleeve, detachable hip belt, and top load opening, it will serve you well on your lightly packed trips.
The backpack also has two water bottle pockets and trekking pole loops for more adventurous occasions.
There are 2 size options (XS – XL: 28-46in, XXL – 4XL: 42-58in) and you can also upgrade to 40L.
2. Osprey Sojourn Porter 30 Travel Pack
This Osprey Travel Pack is a backpacker’s favorite. The main compartment is access with the full-front zipper, making it so convenient to pack and access. The more and loops the better! The outer compression straps allow you to secure the main compartment and enhance ergonomics. It also allows you to secure any items you’d like to quickly access, such as jackets, blankets, or anything you an secure with a carabiner.
The dimensions meet most airline carry-on limits, but due to its packability, you may be exceed the Width requirement. Check with your airline.
3. Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag is a colorful solution to the traveling techy. Its front compartment allows you to pack your gadgets separately from your main items. Loaded with pockets and dividers inside and out, this bag is the gadget enthusiast’s bff.
The side handles are a nice touch for grab-and-go situations!
4. Herschel Kaslo 30L Tech Backpack
The Herschel Kaslo 30L Tech Backpack is for those of us who want a backpack that’s a little more discrete, and can easily double as an everyday bag.
The monotone colorways will be suitable and sleek for any occasion.
This bag has three main compartments giving your hassle free access to your belongings.
5. Fjallraven Kanken Weekender Duffel Bag
It’s in the name! The Fjallraven Kanken Weekender is a duffle-to-bag dream. The design stays true to the Fjallraven backpack we all know and love – now bigger!
The standard duffel shape allows you to pack and access your belongings easily, with a second main compartment to store your tech and other goodies.
6. Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC Pack
The Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC is the new smaller addition to the Black Hole MLC family. It’s loaded with details and features (think pockets, loops, multiple handles for different carry styles), and it will definitely become your favorite go-to bag.
The backpack straps can be tucked in to convert to a duffel with the detachable strap, or a briefcase style bag with the side handles. Pro tip: tuck the backpack straps in during airport, bus, car transit and storage!
The backpack is made from recycled materials and TPU laminate, making it ware and weather-resistant.
7. Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack
The Cotopaxi Allpa 28L is another crowd favorite. Though it’s smaller than the other contenders, the clamshell style backpack makes packing and accessing so convenient. My personal opinion is that the clamshell style has a built in compression feature that allows you to pack your bag down.
The Allpa of course is equipped with compartmentalized interior pockets, padded laptop sleeve, and easy-access compartment.
The Cotopaxi line are trusted backpacks amongst travelers for it’s functionality, tough materials, and fun colors!
8. Two Wheel Gear Pannier Pack Convertible Plus
Is your weekend trip perhaps on a bicycle? Then I have the perfect bag for you!
The Two Wheel Gear Pannier Pack comes in two sizes and easily converts from pannier to backpack. The full-front zip style, waterproof outer shell, and laptop compartment makes this bag an incredible choice for cycling trips and everyday carry.
All of these bags are excellent choices for hassle-free quick trips. Check out each bag for the feature you need – water bottle pocket, opening style, convertible straps, etc. Pick the right bag and get the most out of your weekend!