Travel Gear

What Size Backpack For Travelling Do You Need?

Discover the right backpack size for your travels with our practical guide. Make your journey comfortable and organized—read more to find the perfect fit!

Raquel

05 Oct 2022 • 8 min read

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Choosing the right size backpack for traveling can make or break your trip. Whether you're heading out on your first backpacking trip, taking a weekend getaway, or embarking on long-term travel, selecting the perfect travel backpack is essential. The right backpack size depends on your destination, trip length, and how much gear you'll need to pack. This guide will help you determine the best backpack size for your personal travel style.

Understanding Backpack Sizing

When it comes to choosing the right backpack for your travels, understanding backpack sizing is crucial. Backpack sizes are measured in liters, which represent the volume of the bag. A larger liter capacity means more space for your gear, but it also means a bigger and heavier backpack. To give you a better idea, a 20-liter backpack can fit about 20 rolled-up t-shirts or 5-6 one-gallon jugs.

When choosing a backpack, consider the type of trip you’ll be taking, the length of your trip, and your packing style. For instance, a minimalist packer on a weekend trip might find a 20L backpack sufficient, while a heavy packer on a long-term adventure might need a 60L backpack. A good rule of thumb is to choose a backpack that is neither too big nor too small for your needs, ensuring you have enough space without carrying unnecessary weight.

The Sweet Spot for Backpack Sizes

One of the most common questions is, “What size backpack should I get?” The sweet spot for most travelers is usually a 40L backpack. This size is perfect for carry-on requirements on most airlines, fits into overhead bins with ease, and encourages minimalist packing. A 40L backpack is versatile, offering enough space for essentials without the unnecessary bulk.

When choosing a backpack, consider the type of trip you’ll be taking, the length of your trip, and your packing style. Understanding what you want to pack is crucial in determining the appropriate backpack size, especially if you need to carry additional gear for safety or if you are traveling with others.

If you’re traveling light with budget airlines, a smaller backpack of around 30L-40L can save you money on baggage fees. Expandable backpacks are great options for those who want the flexibility to add or reduce capacity during the trip.

Explore top-rated 40L travel backpacks to find the one that works best for your travels.

Best Backpack Size by Trip Type

Different types of trips require varying sizes of backpacks. Here's a breakdown:

Day Hikes and Weekend Trips

For short trips, a smaller backpack in the 20L-30L range is perfect. These backpacks are lightweight and sufficient for packing essentials like a light jacket, snacks, and a water bottle.

Overnight Trips

If you're heading out for an overnight adventure, consider backpacks ranging from 30L to 50L. You'll have room for essentials such as a sleeping bag, a change of clothes, and basic camping gear.

Long Trip/International Flights

For long-term travel or international flights, backpacks in the 50L-70L range work well. These sizes provide more room for items like extra clothing, shoes, and travel essentials. Keep in mind, larger backpacks may need to be checked in rather than carried on.

Check out the best backpack sizes for weekend trips and long-term travel.

Carry-On vs. Checked Bags

For travelers who prefer to travel light, a carry-on backpack like a 40L model is the best choice. Most airlines allow carry-ons measuring around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and many travel backpacks are designed to meet these dimensions. Choosing carry-on sizes can save time at the airport and money on checked baggage fees.

On the other hand, a larger bag might be necessary if you're packing for unpredictable weather, different climates, or multiple activities. Just remember that checked bags may increase travel costs and require more careful packing!

Browse our top picks for carry-on backpacks for international flights.

Travel Backpack vs. Outdoor Backpack

When it comes to backpacks, there are two main categories: travel backpacks and outdoor backpacks. Travel backpacks are designed for general travel, whether it’s a weekend trip or a long-term adventure. They typically have more pockets and compartments for organization and are designed to be more stylish and professional-looking. These backpacks are perfect for navigating airports, city streets, and public transportation.

Outdoor backpacks, on the other hand, are designed for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. They are often larger and more durable, with features like waterproofing and reinforced materials. These backpacks are built to withstand the elements and carry heavier loads, making them ideal for a backpacking trip or a camping trip.

If you’re planning a backpacking trip or a camping trip, an outdoor backpack may be the better choice. But if you’re just looking for a bag for general travel, a travel backpack is the way to go. Each type has its own set of advantages, so choose the one that best fits your travel needs.

Backpack Size Guide

Choosing the right backpack size can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Here’s a general guide to help you choose the right backpack size for your needs:

20-30 liters: Ideal for day trips, overnight trips, or as a carry-on bag for flights. These backpacks are compact and encourage packing light.
30-40 liters: Suitable for short trips, weekend getaways, or as a personal item for flights. They offer a bit more space while still being manageable.
40-50 liters: Great for longer trips, backpacking trips, or as a carry-on bag for flights. These sizes strike a balance between capacity and portability.
50-60 liters: Ideal for extended trips, camping trips, or as a checked bag for flights. They provide ample space for more gear and clothing.
60+ liters: Suitable for long backpacking trips, camping trips, or as a checked bag for flights. These large backpacks are designed for serious travelers who need to carry a lot of equipment.

Remember, the key is to choose a backpack that is comfortable and fits your needs. Don’t be afraid to try out different sizes and styles to find the one that works best for you.

Packing Styles for Different Travelers

Your packing style also influences which backpack size is ideal for you:

Minimalist Packers

Travelers who prefer less stuff often stick with smaller bags (20L-30L). With the focus on packing light, minimalist packers include only essentials such as a few t-shirts, toiletries, and one pair of shoes. This is perfect for quick trips or day hikes.

Heavy Packers

Those who like to be prepared for any situation might opt for bags in the 50L-70L range. These offer more room for gear like extra clothing, a daypack, and even camping gear.

Discover the best advice for packing light and saving space.

Features to Look for in a Travel Backpack

It's not just about size; the features of the backpack can make all the difference. Look for the following:

Sternum Straps and Hip Belts

These help distribute the weight of your bag, making it easier to carry heavy loads. They're especially helpful for backpacking trips.

Expandable Design

An expandable backpack gives you additional capacity when needed.

Compartments

Opt for backpacks with multiple compartments. This makes it easier to organize your gear, from clothing to a water bottle.

For multi-functionality, check some of the best travel backpacks with compartments and straps.

Travel Size Recommendations for Southeast Asia

If you're exploring Southeast Asia or other tropical regions, a 40L backpack is ideal. These trips often require lightweight travel gear, less clothing, and a focus on keeping your weight minimal due to the warm climate. A smaller bag also makes it easier to maneuver through crowded areas or overhead spaces in buses, trains, and boats.

Plan your ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking trip with the right travel size!

Backpack Size and Comfort

When it comes to backpacks, size and comfort go hand in hand. A backpack that is too big or too small can be uncomfortable to wear, which can make your travels miserable. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a backpack for comfort:

Look for a backpack with padded shoulder straps and a hip belt to distribute the weight evenly. This is especially important for larger backpacks.
Choose a backpack with a comfortable back panel and a breathable mesh material to keep you cool, especially during long treks.
Consider a backpack with adjustable straps and a torso length to fit your body perfectly. This ensures the backpack sits correctly on your back, reducing strain.
Don’t overload your backpack - pack light and leave some extra space for souvenirs and other items you might acquire during your trip. Overpacking can lead to discomfort and potential injury.

By choosing a backpack that is the right size and comfortable to wear, you’ll be able to enjoy your travels without any discomfort or pain. Remember, the goal is to find a balance between carrying capacity and ease of use, ensuring your backpack enhances your travel experience rather than hindering it.

Packing Tips to Save Space

Maximize your backpack’s capacity by packing smartly. Here's how:

Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and reduces wrinkles.
Use packing cubes to organize items by category. They make unpacking and repacking quick and efficient.
Pack multipurpose items, such as a light jacket that doubles as a raincoat.
Think essentials only – leave unnecessary stuff at home.

Learn more about how to pack efficiently for travel.

Why Weight Matters

Choosing the right size isn't only about space; it's about carrying comfort. A larger bag filled with more gear can become unnecessarily heavy. The added weight might lead to discomfort during longer treks. Aim to pack only what you truly need to strike the balance between luggage and ease of travel.

Read our guide on managing weight during backpacking trips.

What’s the Best Size for You?

Still wondering about the best backpack size for your trip? Here’s a quick comparison:

20L-30L – Perfect for day hikes, short trips, and a minimalist approach.
30L-40L – The sweet spot for light travelers and those flying on budget airlines.
50L-70L – Suited for extended trips and those needing extra space for specialized gear.

Check out our detailed reviews of the best backpack sizes for every type of traveler.

Wrapping Up Our Journey

Finding the best travel backpack ultimately depends on your needs, trip length, and packing style. Whether you're aiming to save space with a compact carry-on bag or opt for a larger bag for long-term travel, make sure to choose a backpack that fits comfortably and meets your specific requirements. Start your adventure the right way with the perfect backpack designed for you.

For more tips and recommendations, explore the best backpacks for travel now.

Happy Travels! 🌍

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