There are a lot of things to consider when planning a trip. Domestic trips come with questions like: How can I get there? and What is there to do? International trips come with extra questions like: Do I need a visa? What currency do they use? and How will I get around?
But there's one universal question that can apply to any trip, whether you're going halfway around the world or just to the next city over: What should I pack?
And the first thing to decide when it comes to packing for travel is what kind of luggage you're going to use.
There's SO MUCH luggage out there to choose from, and if you go into luggage shopping without an idea of what you need and want, you're likely to get overwhelmed by it all.
So, to help you out for your next adventure, here are all my recommendations for the best backpacks, luggage, and bags for travel.
Backpacks
As I've gotten older and my travel style has somewhat shifted, I've more or less hung up my backpacks, so to speak (they're actually currently sitting on a shelf in my closet). But for the first few years of my travels, I traveled almost exclusively with a backpack. And I can confidently say that there are some travel situations where they're just the right choice.
When backpacks are ideal: Backpacks are best for independent travel to destinations where you either a.) want to keep your belongings close on travel days or b.) will need to carry your bags over uneven ground or unpaved roads. Backpack-friendly trips that come to mind are non-luxury travel in Southeast Asia, when using public transport in most of South America, and overlanding trips in Africa.
And my top picks for travel backpacks are:
Kelty Redwing 44
The only downside is that, when fully packed, the Kelty Redwing slightly too large to pass as a carry-on on most international airlines. But the upsides far outweigh this in my opinion!
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP65
Suitcases / rolling bags
Backpacks aren't suitable for everyone or every trip, though. (And, to be honest, I've used a backpack only twice since 2013!) Sometimes a bag with wheels really is more convenient and therefore more ideal to travel with.
When rolling bags are ideal: I go for a rolling bag or suitcase for any trip when I know I won't need to carry my belongings for long distances or need to lift them over my head. They're best-suited to more developed destinations where you won't be pulling them over uneven ground or up/down lots of stairs. I've used rolling bags all over Europe, the US, and even New Zealand.
My favorite wheeled bags are:
Osprey Sojourn 60
An added bonus to this bag is that it comes with removable backpack straps in a separate compartment in the back, meaning it's actually a hybrid bag. I've admittedly never used the backpack straps (I use the compartment for shoes and toiletries instead), but it's nice to have the option.
DELSEY hardside luggage
I also like DELSEY's new Cruise Lite line, which come with a TSA-friendly lock and a built-in luggage scale (how handy!). These ones come in 25-inch and 29-inch versions.
Carry-on only
Even though I usually just suck it up and check a bag on longer trips (it helps when you get free checked bags through mileage programs/airline credit cards), there are plenty of times when I don't need to pack so much. In that case, having good carry-on-only options is a must.
When going carry-on-only is ideal: For shorter trips when you don't need to pack as much, traveling with just a carry-on bag is a no-brainer. It's also smart to do when you have really short layovers or multiple layovers on a long international trip (because lost/delayed luggage is never fun!).
My favorite carry-on-friendly bags right now include:
Osprey Farpoint 40
DELSEY Cruise Lite
(If you travel a lot within Europe, check out the smaller 19-inch version of this bag, which complies with most international carry-on size restrictions.)
Personal items
Charging for carry-on bags is unfortunately becoming the industry standard for many airlines, but so far you're still allowed to bring a “personal item” onboard for free! Usually this means a small backpack, tote, or handbag that can fit under the seat in front of you.
I've tried out a lot of different personal-item-complying bags over the years, and these are my current favorites:
Pacsafe Camsafe V17
(There's also a larger version of this bag here, but note that this one is too big to fit under an airplane seat.)
STM Haven
Travelon Bucket Bag
So there you have it: the best luggage and bags for travel, based on my opinion and experience. Hopefully I've given you some inspiration for your next trip!
For more of my packing tips, check out my Packing Lists page, and my favorite travel gear from 2016.
What are some of YOUR favorite bags or luggage brands for travel?
My carry-on luggage right now is a Herschel Duffel. I love it, but it doesn’t make a great carry-on … I’ve actually been looking to switch to a roller.
Ah yeah, duffels are tough! They’re handy for certain things, but aren’t always ideal when you have to lug them around an airport! When I’m traveling domestically (and usually for a week or less), a roller is definitely what I choose to use.
I need to work on downsizing what I pack. This would help immensely!
That’s the trick – give yourself less space, and you’ll be forced to pack less!
That Delsey carry-on looks perfect for me!! I fly back and forth from California to NY (way too often!) and could definitely benefit from such an awesome little suitcase.
It’s a great bag! Super light, rolls easily, and is made with function in mind! I usually travel with a separate backpack for my laptop/tech gear, but I love that the Delsey carry-on has a dedicated pocket for a laptop in the front – definitely handy!
I use my Dad’s old backpack from the 1970s or 1980s.
Some parts of it are ripped or broken. It’s clumsy. It’s ugly.
I have been to 51 countries so far.
Probably because I don’t spend money on new stuff when the old stuff is still working.
Gear is not important. Your spirit is.
Nice! I do think that functioning gear is important, though! 😉
Thanks for the tip on the “personal item” bags – definitely something I want to look into!
Having a go-to that you know will always work is never a bad idea!
I love new luggage. I would take mine with me to Colombia next year.
I don’t get new luggage very often (I tend to use things until they can’t be used any more!), so when I do it’s definitely exciting.
I love my Overland Equipment Donner bag-similar in style to the Travelon bag you feature. It’s gone on every overseas vacation with me–lots of room for maps, snacks, water bottle, and a raincoat. Unfortunately, I don’t think they make them anymore…Hope it’s got a few more trips left in it!
I have a Donner bag, too!! And I agree that it’s one of the best. But yes, unfortunately they don’t make them any longer, so sadly I can’t recommend them to people any more. 🙁
I have used the Farpoint 40 as a carry-on for domestic and international travel. I love it. I prefer to not check a bag if I don’t have to and for the last 3 years this bag, plus a personal bag, have met my needs.
It’s a great carry-on-only bag, for sure!
My favorite piece of luggage is a North Face duffel, mainly because I can stuff it full and then compress it down. If I win the new bag, I will be taking it to Lisbon for a conference I have!
Bags that you can squish down or into different shapes are always handy to have!
That Delsey Hardside is a beauty. Have you ever tested Eagle Creek’s wheel Rollers? Mary got one last year, and I was jealous we ended up getting another. We always travel carry-on only, so being able to roll through airports without straining our arms is a dream.
I have tons of Eagle Creek packing cubes, but haven’t tried any of their rolling bags yet!
Great to know when I go travelling to USA!
I’ve had the same bag for the last six years of long-term travel. It’s now falling apart, and I have to admit, I’m a little heartbroken. 🙁 Looking at new bags now. My boyfriend wants one of the Northface duffles, but I’m partial to the Pacsafes.
I’m a huge fan of Pacsafe bags! They’re usually a little more expensive, but the anti-theft features are worth it, I think!
Do you have a recommendation for a lightweight wheeled duffel? I’m in the market for one. It’s amazing to me how much the luggage alone often weighs, so lightweight is key. Thanks!
I personally have never traveled with a wheeled duffel (a wheeled backpack has always just made more sense to me!), so I’m afraid I don’t have any personal recommendations. I know both the North Face and Patagonia make wheeled duffels, but I don’t have any idea whether either of them make lightweight ones.
My current favorite luggage is a Swiss army brand rolling suitcase. However, since it was a gift, I was given the all black one so it is not very distinct when getting it from planes. That’s why I would love a new bag from Delsey!!
Ahhh yes, the black luggage problem! I always recommend getting a really distinct luggage tag, and/or tying something recognizable onto your luggage handle to help you spot it more easily!
My favorite piece of luggage is totally unconventional but my carry on (I always check a bigger bag too) has long been a Pottery Barn diaper bag. It’s totally cute and functional and full of pockets but doesn’t scream diaper bag.
Hey, whatever works!! You can never go wrong with cute *and* functional.
I like the Rick Steves backpack that fits the maximum requirements for airline carry-on. Just returned from a 2 week trip to India and it worked great.
Nice! I haven’t tried any of the Rick Steves bags, but they look nice.
I would use the new bag on a trip to Korea.
I was just looking at these Delsey bags on Amazon! I need a small, functional carry on for my upcoming trip to Spain. The one I have now is way too heavy and bulky. Thanks for the recommendations!
I’m taking my Delsey bag to the UK this weekend, and am looking forward to finally having a quality rolling bag to use! (The last time I got a new carry-on roller, I was in college… haha.)
I would take my Delsey winning luggage back to my previous hometown of London!
I’m taking mine there on Saturday!
I enjoyed reading this. I’ve just begun traveling and invested in the Farpoint 55L backpack for my trips to Scotland and Mexico. I love it! Not too big, easy access and comfortable. I’m planning multiple long weekend trips to Nashville, Virginia and California this year and the Delsey Hard-side Carry On would be perfect for those trips!
Osprey makes such great backpacks! They’re definitely one of my favorite brands. Though, for rolling bags, Delsey sure makes some great ones – good luck!
I would love to take my new carry-on to Costa Rica!
I mostly use my eBags Motherlode Weekender Junior backpack — it forces me not to overpack!
Being forced to pack light can be tough sometimes, but it’s usually a good thing!
Great list! We love Osprey Farpoint 40. We are traveling the world for a year and only packed in that bag.It’s been very good to us!
I know quite a few people who use the Farpoint as their full-time travel bag!
I really like the look of Delsey. I am going to Europe this summer and I think it would be perfect!
They make some very nice-looking luggage! I love that it looks expensive, but doesn’t quite have the price tag of some of the top name brands.
I don’t have a favorite yet but have been considering switching to carry on only.
It’s definitely more convenient in situations where you have short layovers, or when you just don’t want to wait around the baggage carousel. That being said, though, there are some trips when I just can’t fit everything into a carry-on bag!
I’m all about the Osprey Sojourn and I wish I’d invested in one sooner! I’ve had it for a couple of years now and it’s saved my back. I also love that the wheels are much larger and sturdier than your average wheeled suitcase, which means it can handle rough terrain. I hardly ever have to use the straps!
Same! My Sojourn is a BEAST, and handles just about everything. I had the first sign of wear on it at the end of last year (almost 3 years after I started using it), and it’s just part of a plastic strap holder that cracked off. Not bad for how often I use it!
I like my rolling carry-on suitcase. I honestly have no idea what brand it is, and I have to borrow it from my parents, but it’s a great suitcase!
Haha, hey, the details don’t really matter as long as it works!
For longer trips, and backpacking, I like to bring my Osprey 75 pack (not sure of the exact model since it’s a few years old and hiding in the trunk of my car right now) and my Osprey Daylite pack which clips onto the larger backpack. If it’s a shorter trip, I have a neon green and pink flowered kids rolling backpack from Target. It’s the perfect size for a week long trip and it stands out at luggage claim. For carrying my electronics (I work remotely full time so I have to bring a lot with me), I have my custom Rickshaw backpack. I love the look of both the Delsey rolling bags.
Nice! I love hearing what sorts of bags other people love to use.
I just finished a week in Mexico and both my husband and I used backpacks. We fit our kids’ clothes in them, too. And carried car seats. We didn’t have to check luggage that way.
When we go back to Mexico next month, I would like a sturdy rolling carry on to strap one of the car seats to. That would make life easier!
Wow, I’m impressed!!
I recently went on a 9-day overseas trip and brought a samsonite carry on spinner and osprey porter 32 inch. I can’t do without the spinner wheels. They are a lifesaver!
Once you have a spinner, you definitely can never go back to a suitcase with “normal” wheels!
I’ve debated getting a rolling suitcase for a long time. I’ve never justified spending the money when I have 2 perfectly functional backpacks, but a roller sure would be easier in places with good sidewalks! And hey, if I win then it’s free so no money spent!
Exactly! Good luck!
I haven’t done a ton of traveling so this is all great info. I’m headed to New Zealand in may ?
Yay! New Zealand is one of my favorite places! And you can pretty much use any type of luggage there!
I love your tips and suggestions on the different types of luggage. I have a couple of duffel bags, roller suitcases, and carry on bags. It’s always depended on where my destination is and what I plan to do. For the most part I prefer my roller luggage, because I hate lugging super heavy bags. However, backpacks are great especially when I plan to do a lot of hiking. It’s crazy to see how many different types of luggage are out there.
I’m the same way! My luggage is totally dependent on the length of trip I’m taking and where I’m heading. (But I’ll always be a roller bag girl at heart – I hate carrying heavy things!)
I love hard shell luggage! I have been eyeing up the Delsey Chatelet hard shell in champaign. I’m just worried it wouldn’t stay white very long. It’s so chic looking though!
I LOVE that bag, too (also in white), but I had the same thoughts. Especially when you have to gate-check your bag, it gets abused just as much as regular luggage! I’m loving my CRUISE Lite in blue so far though.
I’ve been looking for a new carry on for my trip to Europe this summer! ?
Well there are a couple suggestions in this post that should hopefully give you a couple of ideas!
great post! helpful tips for luggage for my next trip to seattle.
My carry on has a bum wheel at the moment. And wheels are not particularly cheap to fix so I’ve found out. I tend to use something until it totally gives up on me which I fear will be happening quite soon. Thanks for all your great recs!
No, a bum wheel definitely isn’t ideal!
Have you ever taken a look at Eagle Creek Gear Hauler? It looks a little different as the straps come out of the compartment access area. I used it for my luggage when I went to Cuba for a week and it was surprisingly comfortable!
Ooo that’s interesting!
That Delsey carry-on sounds amazing! I would love to take one on a long weekend to Aruba in April! 🙂
Sounds like a lovely trip!
It’s so great to see the Osprey Farpoint 40 on here! I end up seeing it on pretty much every backpack/luggage post that I come across. I decided awhile back it was the one I wanted. Always nice to have confirmation that I made the right choice!
It’s a very popular bag for travel – but for a good reason!
I LOVE Delsey. I got their laptop bag at WITS last year and it’s my favorite bag ever. It’s actually big enough for my laptop and all the other work stuff I need, a water bottle, and a few snacks. And it still magically fits under the seat in front of me on pretty much any airplane. When I can justify buying a new rolling suitcase, it’s going to be from Delsey. Although I do love my bright purple Pierre Cardin luggage, too. I’ve had it ten years and it still looks almost new.
Oooh I will have to check out their laptop bags!
Question! I’m heading to England next month and I’m trying to figure out what bag to bring. I’m going to fly into and out of London. I’ll be taking the train into London, then onto Oxford and Bath. Once I get to Bath, I’m renting a car to drive around the Cotswolds. I want to bring a light, roller bag but I’m not sure if I should due to riding the train into London and onto Oxford/Bath. What do you think? Thanks in advance!
As long as it’s not a huge rolling bag, you should be fine. I take bags onto trains in the UK all the time! It does help if it’s small/light enough for you to lift it over your head – the regular luggage racks on trains fill up quickly, so if it’s small enough to fit over you seat that’s definitely a bonus.
Hi Amanda
Do you have any suggestion for a good luggage with waterproof and lighweight. and could carry upto 60kg
Thank you so much
Most good backpacks will come with a waterproof cover! But I don’t have any specific recommendations beyond what you’ll find in this post.
Hey Amanda, great post. I like to travel lean so I only have small backpacks but recently, my travelling habits have called for bigger luggage. Having been made by a traveller, your post is a lot reliable and I will refer to it when it comes time to buy. Thanks!
Happy to be able to help! These are all bags I’ve personally used, too, so I can attest to them being good!
I recently made the switch from a backpack to a rolling backpack for my travels and I’m in love! I bought the Osprey Sojourn 60L, it fits everything I need while still being light and comfortable. I love that I can roll the bag when conditions/streets allow but easilly pull out the straps and put it on my back when the going gets rough. It’s a real quality piece of kit and it gets my recomendation!
That’s my favorite bag ever! Mine has been literally all over the world with me and still looks virtually brand new!
Hi Amanda! Wow, your site is awesome and your photos are absolutely gorgeous! Thank you for all of the great info!