Best Backpack Brands - Traveler's Favorites in 2023

Are you planning a trip and wondering which backpack brand to go for? There are so many to choose from, it can be overwhelming! This guide will give you an insight into some of the most popular backpack brands and why they might be right for you.

Picking the best travel backpack is an essential part of planning your trip. Whether you're trekking the amazon, traveling for business, or getting ready for a city break, a backpack always comes in handy, no matter the occasion. 

What to Look for When Choosing a Backpack

Before we explore some of the best backpack brands, consider what exactly you're looking for and why you need a backpack. There are a few key factors to consider when finding the right gear.

Size 

Most backpack brands have a variety of sizes on offer - it's important to consider exactly what you'll be packing to ensure it will all fit comfortably in your pack. Smaller packs are more convenient for busy city trips, so consider packing light wherever possible. Here's a handy backpacking packing list for some helpful pointers on packing.

Comfort 

A quality travel backpack should be effortless to carry around. Before buying one, consider which types of features you prefer, such as padded backs, hip belts, and shoulder straps.

Fabric

The choice of fabric depends on the type of activities you like to do. If you're planning on lots of outdoor adventures, then a waterproof backpack is a must. It's also worth considering dark colors to hide the inevitable scuff marks over time!

Durability

Durability goes a long way if you're looking for a good travel investment. Well-established backpack brands generally produce durable products, which is how they maintain their reputation! Off-brand backpacks can be temptingly cheap but often show wear and tear quickly.

Price 

A pricey backpack certainly doesn't guarantee quality. It's important to stay within budget. There are often cheaper alternatives that are still comparable to the more premium backpack brands.

Suppose you're planning to use your backpack regularly. In that case, it's worth investing in a durable pack, but if you need it for a once-off trip, then you could easily get away with a less expensive option.

Backpack Brands I Love

Here are some backpack brands that are highly recommended. Let's find out what each brand has to offer and why it might be suited to you.

Osprey

Founded in 1974 in Santa Cruz, California, Osprey has risen to be one of the leading backpack brands in the industry. It's recognized worldwide for its premium, durable packs with sleek, trendy designs.

Osprey has their "all mighty guarantee." They promise to repair any damage or defect for any reason free of charge, whether it was purchased in 1974 or yesterday, making it an excellent investment if you're looking for a long-lasting pack.

Osprey can be a little pricier than some other options on the market. For longer-term travelers regularly on the move, Osprey is one of the best backpack brands to choose from. Its durability and comfort are second to none, and the designs look fantastic!

Osprey Atmos AG 65

One of the firm favorites amongst seasoned travelers is the unisex Osprey Atmos AG 65. At $300, it's a significant investment at first, but it will be with you on many adventures thanks to Osprey's awesome guarantee. 

Osprey Renn 65

A much more affordable option is the Osprey Renn 65 for women and the Osprey Kestrel 48 for men if you want to treat your guy. These packs are around half the price of the Atmos pack. They're a little smaller and have fewer features, but they're still highly competitive for the price point.

Mountaintop

Mountain Top has become one of the top outdoor backpack brands. For years they've produced quality products for those passionate about outdoor adventures. Their comfortable, space-efficient design makes them perfect for traveling.

MOUNTAINTOP 70L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack

This is a great option if you're looking for a way to go easy on your budget. This MOUNTAINTOP 70 Hiking Backpack is an absolute bargain at just $90! With an internal frame and a rain cover, you're ticking off all the right boxes here.

A hiking backpack is perfect for longer journeys as they are designed to hold a lot of gear efficiently and are designed to be worn comfortably for much more extended periods.

This makes Mountaintop ideal if you're going to be regularly on the move or traveling by public transport. Of course, it's a must for any kind of outdoor adventuring.

Herschel

Herschel Supplies Co. is a lifestyle brand based in Canada. They specialize in travel accessories for the style-conscious traveler. They are famous for producing beautifully designed backpacks with a vintage look and high functionality.

Little America Laptop Backpack

Herschel is best known for their trendy, eco-friendly backpacks, such as their iconic Little America Laptop Backpack.

Retreat Backpack

Their slightly larger Retreat Backpack is also trendy. Both packs come in a variety of colors, and their cute vintage designs are eye-catching. However, does that make them suitable for traveling?

Although the bags are reasonably durable, you would unlikely choose this bag for long-term travel or if you're into outdoor adventures. The Herschel backpacks are better suited for an overnight stay or perfect when packing for a weekend trip.

Samsonite

Samsonite has been making quality travel wear for over a century! They've earned a well-deserved reputation for quality and reliability, and their backpacks are particularly suited to the business traveler. Samsonite has a range of sturdy, carry-on laptop backpacks which are popular among business elites. 

Samsonite Kombi Business Backpack

The elegant and practical Samsonite Kombi Business Backpack has many organization features, including a critical fob compartment and Multiple Pockets for organizing materials. This is the perfect pack for business trips that will tick off all the boxes. 

Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi is a modern hipster outdoor apparel brand known for its bold and colorful designs. It walks the line between fashion and functionality - excellently hitting the mark on both. Their slogan is "Stay curious, stay colorful.

Authentic. Positive. Confident. Fun. We're evolving the outdoors." This is expressed well in their range, making them one of the best trendy backpack brands on the market.

The company is focused on sustainability and social justice. They've committed to making all their gear using recycled, repurposed, or otherwise responsibly sourced materials by 2025. They also have rigorous, fair-trade policies during their manufacturing process.

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

The flagship Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack is a popular favorite for weekend vacations or minimalist travelers looking to carry only the essentials. Alternatively, the 42L version is available for longer trips. Both options come in Del Dia color, which means each pack will be different colors depending on the make. This is the pack for you if you want something unique and fun!

Backpacked and Ready to Go!

Hopefully, this guide has helped you narrow down the options among some of the best backpack brands out there. Finding the perfect backpack that works for your style of travel is a game changer, and it will become your trusted travel companion for years to come!

Wherever the road takes you, having trusty travel gear and planning tools makes the journey much more accessible. Pilot might just be that travel planner you've been looking for!