11 best travel backpacks for women who like to pack light
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Off on holiday and need to pack light? You'll be needing one of the best travel backpacks, then. As spacious as a suitcase but with all the added benefits of a laptop backpack, i.e. somewhere to store your devices safely and neatly, travel rucksacks are – without a doubt – a frequent jet-setter's idea of heaven.
Forget what you thought you knew; travel backpacks are no longer reserved for those who are off to find themselves on their gap year (though, if that's you, no judgement), but are actually a savvier way of packing everything you could possibly need into way less luggage.
What is the best backpack to take on a plane?
If you're looking for a travel backpack that'll fit under your seat, we can't recommend Antler's Chelsea design enough. It's stylish and compact, with a 16.5” laptop pocket, suitcase sleeve, water bottle compartment and room enough for clothes and shoes inside. If you need something big enough for a few days but small enough to go in the overhead locker, Eastpak's Travelpack is the one. It can be carried on your back or as a holdall/weekend bag, is water-resistant and comes with a 30-year warranty(!).
Will a 35L backpack fit under airplane seat?
It's unlikely you'll find a 35L backpack that'll fit under an airplane seat, as, according to airline policy, any personal items stowed beneath seats should not exceed 18 inches x 14 inches x 8 inches – and a 35L bag would usually be bigger.
From designs that render your favourite four-wheel hard-shell case entirely redundant, to sleek cabin-sized styles that'll see you through a long weekend away, we've found the best women's travel backpacks to buy in 2024. See them all below.
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Best Women's Travel Backpacks for Budget Travel
Why we love it: Carried as a backpack or hauled as a duffle bag, Eastpak's 2-in-1 carry-on luggage comes with a 30-year warranty. That's how much they back it. It comes in eight colourways to suit your preference, and is just shy of £100 – making it our top pick.
What you should know:
- Dimenions: 51cm x 33cm x 23cm.
- Colours: 8.
- Waterproof: Water-resistant.
- Laptop sleeve: Yes, up to 17".
- Other features: Two main compartments (one with dividers) with a zip-fastening front pocket, carry handles and adjustable padded shoulder straps.
