Travel

Choosing the Best Backpacks for Train Travel in Europe

There are more travel backpacks on the market than ever before—which is great because bag manufacturers are finally listening to travelers who want comfortable, functional, and stylish backpacks that are created specifically for point-to-point urban travel. If you’re looking for backpacks for traveling on trains in Europe, you need features like ease of packing, comfort for navigating stations, and carry-on compatibility. To help you choose, I’ve personally tested dozens of the most popular travel bags to find what I think are the best travel backpacks for multiple travel styles, with a focus on their suitability for European train journeys.

So What Do I Know About Travel Backpacks?

Author carrying the Aer Travel Pack 3 backpack while traveling in Naples, Italy, suitable for train journeysAuthor carrying the Aer Travel Pack 3 backpack while traveling in Naples, Italy, suitable for train journeysCollection of numerous travel backpacks personally tested by the author for durability and comfort on European tripsCollection of numerous travel backpacks personally tested by the author for durability and comfort on European tripsI’ve traveled through Europe (and beyond) with a backpack strapped to my back dozens of times since 2008 and I’ve personally tested over 25 of the most popular travel backpacks over the past 15+ years.

What You’ll Find In This Guide: I’ve tried to cover every feature & aspect that you’ll want to consider when choosing a travel backpack that best suits your unique travel needs, specifically highlighting what makes a bag good for train travel across Europe.

I’ve also tried my best to suggest my favorite backpacks at every price point because I know not everyone wants to shell out $200+ for a backpack.

My Top Picks For The Best Travel Backpacks

Diverse collection of top-rated travel backpacks recommended for navigating Europe by trainDiverse collection of top-rated travel backpacks recommended for navigating Europe by trainAlright! Let’s take a look at my list of the best travel backpacks on the market. The backpacks in this list range from around $100 to $300 so there are options at every price point, keeping in mind their practicality for train travel in Europe.

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview: The Best “Do-It-All” Travel Backpack

Osprey Farpoint 40L and 55L travel backpacks, popular choices for comfortable train travel in EuropeOsprey Farpoint 40L and 55L travel backpacks, popular choices for comfortable train travel in EuropeUpdated design of the Osprey Farpoint travel backpack featuring a redesigned back panel for improved comfort on tripsUpdated design of the Osprey Farpoint travel backpack featuring a redesigned back panel for improved comfort on tripsUPDATE: The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview was redesigned in 2022 to be slightly shorter so now it’s carry-on compliant. There were also a few other welcomed tweaks like moving the laptop compartment to a better position and an upgraded mesh-covered ridged foam back panel—features appreciated when maneuvering train stations.

The Osprey Farpoint (the Osprey Fairview is the female version) is my current favorite all-around travel backpack and I’ve taken it on multiple trips to Europe, making it ideal for train travel.

The Osprey Farpoint is great because it has a high-quality hiking-style shoulder harness so it’s comfortable, which is key for walking to and from train stations. It also has a suitcase-style opening so it’s easy to pack and access items quickly on a train. It’s fairly lightweight, and the straps can be zipped away so you can check the bag if needed, or simply keep them tidy when stowing the bag on a train luggage rack.

QUICK NOTE: The Farpoint 55L and Farpoint 40L are basically the same backpack but the Farpoint 40L doesn’t have a detachable 15L daypack—i.e. the main bag is the same size on both bags.

Osprey Farpoint / Fairview 40 Travel Backpack Specs

  • Size: 22H X 14W X 9D Inches
  • Weight: 3.486 LBS
  • Price: $185

Osprey Farpoint / Fairview 55 Travel Backpack Specs

Traveler wearing the Osprey Farpoint or Fairview 55L backpack, demonstrating size for train luggage racksTraveler wearing the Osprey Farpoint or Fairview 55L backpack, demonstrating size for train luggage racks

  • Size: 22H X 14W X 9D Inches
  • Weight: 4.234 LBS
  • Price: $220

Buy At: REIOspreyAmazon

Read My In-Depth Reviews: Osprey Farpoint 55 ReviewOsprey Farpoint 40 Review

Aer Travel Pack 3: The Best Minimalist & Utilitarian Travel Backpack

Author using the Aer Travel Pack 3, a minimalist backpack ideal for urban exploration and train trips in ItalyAuthor using the Aer Travel Pack 3, a minimalist backpack ideal for urban exploration and train trips in ItalyThe Aer Travel Pack 3 was updated in 2022, making it a significant upgrade from the Aer Travel Pack 2. These improvements enhance its suitability for seamless train travel.

Coming in at 35L, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is a heavy-duty minimalist travel backpack with great-looking urban/utilitarian styling—perfect for city-to-city train journeys in Europe. It’s also smartly designed with plenty of pockets and organization, helpful for keeping essentials accessible while seated on a train.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 was designed to be both stylish and functional—ideal for urban travel. While it can hold a good amount, its 35L size means it is better suited for minimalist travelers since heavy packers will need more space. This size easily meets most airline carry-on dimensions and is compact enough for overhead bins or even under seats on trains.

Aer uses high-quality materials and heavy-duty fabrics. The shoulder straps have good padding and are curved for comfort, essential when carrying the bag through large European train terminals.

I used the Aer Travel Pack 3 on a recent two-week trip to Italy and a week trip to LA. I’ve also used it on shorter weekend trips and remain a big fan. Check out my Aer Travel Pack 3 review to get my full thoughts.

Aer Travel Pack 3 Specs

  • Length: 21.5″ (54.5 cm), Width: 13″ (33 cm), Depth: 9″ (21.5 cm)
  • Weight: 4.12 lbs
  • Price: $250 via AER SF

Where To Purchase: Aer SF Website

See My In-Depth Review: Aer Travel Pack Review

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack: The Best “Design Meets Style” Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack in a vibrant color, designed for both style and function on European journeysCotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack in a vibrant color, designed for both style and function on European journeysThe Cotopaxi Allpa 42L has been making multiple “best travel backpack” lists and I can see why after personally using it while traveling to Prague and Berlin. This 42L bag is just the right size to be carry-on compliant for most travel modes, including many European trains, and it has great style (which is rare with travel backpacks).

I found the bag to be very comfortable, well-constructed, and super durable—qualities essential for frequent train travel. It’s also smartly designed with multiple pockets that made organization super easy, letting you find what you need without unpacking everything on the train. They also make this bag in a 35L version, but I’d stick with the 42L if you’re traveling longer than 3-5 days, as it provides more flexibility without being excessively large.

Cotopaxi also included smart features like sturdy zippers, smaller stash pockets, tamper-resistant zippers, and color-coded zippers to help you quickly find the main compartment (I wish all backpacks did this), adding convenience for accessing items during a train journey.

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Specs:

  • 42L (2563 cu in)
  • 22 x 14 x 11″ (56 x 36 x 27cm)
  • 4lb 2oz (1871 g)
  • TPU-coated 1000D polyester
  • Lightweight yet durable 840D ballistic nylon paneling
  • Price: $220 via Cotopaxi

Purchase At:

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Read My In-Depth Review

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Osprey Sojourn Porter: The Best Gear-Hauling Travel Backpack

Side view of the Osprey Sojourn Porter backpack, showcasing its structure suitable for packing for train travelSide view of the Osprey Sojourn Porter backpack, showcasing its structure suitable for packing for train travelPerson wearing the Osprey Sojourn Porter backpack, demonstrating its profile and comfort for carrying on travel daysPerson wearing the Osprey Sojourn Porter backpack, demonstrating its profile and comfort for carrying on travel daysThe Osprey Sojourn Porter was redesigned in 2021 with significant improvements.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter series is another super solid travel bag that lets you haul a lot of stuff at an affordable price—it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular travel backpacks for those needing capacity, which can be useful on longer train trips.

While not quite as comfortable as its Farpoint/Fairview sibling, the Sojourn Porter is comfortable enough for city travel and navigating train stations. It excels as a “purpose-built gear-hauling backpack” perfect for city hopping and urban travel. The Porter’s “turtle shell” shape maximizes packing space, allowing an impressive amount of stuff inside, useful when packing for varied destinations accessible by train.

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The 46L version is recommended for most travelers since it meets (or comes close) to carry-on size for many airlines and trains. The 30L is for minimalists. The 65L version is probably too large for most people trying to travel lightly by train unless they really need to carry a lot.

Osprey Sojourn Porter 30 Travel Backpack Specs

  • Size: 19.5″ X 13″ X 10″
  • Weight: 2.8 lbs
  • Price: $165

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 Travel Backpack Specs

  • Size: 22″ X 14″ X 11″
  • Weight: 3.4 lbs
  • Price: $185

Osprey Sojourn Porter 65 Travel Backpack Specs

  • Size: 25″ X 14″ X 12″
  • Weight: 3.9 lbs
  • Price: $200

Purchase At: REIOspreyAmazon

Read My In-Depth Review: Osprey Porter 46 Review

Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L: The Best Full-Featured Travel Backpack

Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L, known for its robust build and comprehensive features for serious travelersTortuga Travel Backpack 40L, known for its robust build and comprehensive features for serious travelersThe Tortuga Outbreaker backpack, demonstrating a carry-on size ideal for overhead storage on European trainsThe Tortuga Outbreaker backpack, demonstrating a carry-on size ideal for overhead storage on European trainsThe Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is the most full-featured, do-everything, withstand-anything-you-throw-at-it travel backpack out there. It’s built like a tank, smartly designed, and comes in 30L and 40L—sizes well-suited for train travel in Europe.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack has a beefy hiking-style shoulder harness and hip belt, making it very comfortable for carrying through terminals or between accommodations. It’s made of extremely tough and water-resistant sailcloth fabric, adding durability for various travel conditions. The bag also has tons of organization and is carry-on-sized, fitting easily in overhead bins on trains or in luggage racks.

Tortuga’s goal was to include everything a traveler would want. While some might find it overly feature-rich, it’s undeniably a super solid backpack, especially for those who appreciate maximum functionality on their journeys.

Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L Specs

Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L Specs

Purchase At: Tortuga Backpacks

See My In-Depth Review: Tortuga Outbreaker Review

Kelty Redwing Tactile: The Best Budget-Friendly Backpack

The Kelty Redwing Tactile backpack tends to get overlooked—probably because it is marketed as a hiking backpack—but it is quietly a solid travel backpack, particularly for budget-conscious travelers exploring Europe by train. It’s essentially a hybrid between a hiking and travel backpack, so it’s comfortable for carrying and easy to pack thanks to its quasi-suitcase opening. Plus, it comes in multiple liter sizes and a female-specific version.

The main downside is its appearance—it looks like an outdoorsy hiking backpack, which might not be preferred by all urban travelers. It’s also not very sleek, meaning you might bump into things in crowded train aisles. But if aesthetics are less important than comfort and price, this is a solid, affordable option for train travel.

Kelty Redwing 44 Specs

  • Size: 25″ x 15″ x 12″
  • Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz
  • Price: $125

Kelty Redwing 32 Specs

  • Size: 22″ x 14″ x 11″
  • Weight: 2 lbs
  • Price: $100

Kelty Redwing 40 (Women’s) Specs

  • Size: 23″ x 14″ x 12″
  • Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz
  • Price: $125

Osprey Atmos: Best Hiking-Style Backpack

Osprey Atmos 50L hiking backpack, comfortable for long wear but top-loading design is less convenient for trainsOsprey Atmos 50L hiking backpack, comfortable for long wear but top-loading design is less convenient for trainsIf comfort and capacity are most important, consider the Osprey Atmos or the female-specific Osprey Aura hiking backpacks. While their top-loading design is less convenient for accessing items compared to front-opening travel bags—a drawback on a train—they are exceptionally comfortable for long wear, which is great if you’re walking significant distances to your accommodation.

These are hiking-style backpacks, meaning they are typically too large to be “technically” considered carry-on bags for flights, which might impact multi-modal travel plans but is less strictly enforced on many European trains for carry-on size (though weight can matter).

The Atmos 50L was one of the first backpacks I used in Europe. These bags are super lightweight, and their advanced shoulder harness and hip belt make them incredibly comfortable for carrying heavy loads, like when navigating stairs or platform changes in train stations.

Note: The Osprey Aether is an even nicer (and more expensive) hiking backpack worth considering if comfort is your top priority.

Osprey Atmos/Aura 50 Specs

  • Size: 28.35″ X 14.17″ X 14.17″ (XS), 30.71″ X 14.96″ X 15.35″ (S), 32.68″ X 14.96″ X 15.35″ (M), & 34.65″ X 14.96″ X 15.35″ (L)
  • Weight: 4.21 lbs
  • Price: $240

eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack: Best Cheap Travel Backpack

The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack is a max carry-on size backpack purpose-built for city travel, making it a contender for budget train travel in Europe. It’s much cheaper than most travel backpacks in this size range, though its basic shoulder harness means it’s not ideal for extended wear, less crucial if you only need to carry it to and from train stations and accommodations.

eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack Specs

  • Size: 22″ x 14″ x 9″
  • Weight: 3 lbs, 15 oz
  • Price: $100 (but it’s often on sale)

eBags Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack Specs

  • Size: 19.5″ x 14″ x 9″
  • Weight: 3 lbs, 5 oz
  • Price: $90

Patagonia Black Hole: The Best Duffle-Style Bag

Patagonia Black Hole MLC duffel bag, offering a sleek, carry-on alternative to backpacks for European train travelPatagonia Black Hole MLC duffel bag, offering a sleek, carry-on alternative to backpacks for European train travelOk, the Patagonia Blackhole isn’t technically a “travel backpack”—it’s a travel duffle bag. Yes, it has basic backpack straps, but it’s often preferred as a shoulder bag. It can be a sleek alternative to traditional backpacks for traveling on trains in Europe.

The Patagonia Blackhole has gained a cult following. It’s basically a soft-sided suitcase with a shoulder strap and is a great choice for travelers who don’t want a backpack but still want something easy to carry.

The 45L Blackhole MLC is a sleek, minimalist bag with no dangly exterior straps. Its urban styling helps you blend in, and it can hold a ton of gear, useful for maximizing your allowance on European trains.

Patagonia Blackhole MLC Specs

  • Size: 22.75″ x 18″ x 6.75″
  • Weight: 3 lbs. 5.1 oz.
  • Price: $199

What Is So Great About Travel Backpacks?

Examples of carry-on size travel backpacks like the Osprey Farpoint, emphasizing freedom for travel including trainsExamples of carry-on size travel backpacks like the Osprey Farpoint, emphasizing freedom for travel including trainsVarious recommended travel backpacks shown in a travel context, suitable for navigating airports and train stationsVarious recommended travel backpacks shown in a travel context, suitable for navigating airports and train stationsTraveling with only a backpack gives you a freedom you won’t experience with a suitcase, particularly beneficial when navigating the complexities of European train travel. It’s a very zen-like way to travel that you won’t truly understand until you do it.

That’s because a backpack makes you think carefully about what you bring, as you’re physically limited by what fits. It encourages smarter packing. While it might seem tough initially, you’ll appreciate the light load when you’re on the road, especially when changing trains or stations.

Traveling light allows you to easily navigate busy train stations, cobblestone streets, endless staircases, and everything else you encounter between train rides.

Furthermore, if you travel with a carry-on size backpack you also won’t have to worry about expensive checked bag fees or the airlines losing your luggage, offering peace of mind for your journey.

The Complete Travel Backpacks Buyer’s Guide

Assortment of tested travel backpacks, illustrating the variety available for choosing the right bag for European train tripsAssortment of tested travel backpacks, illustrating the variety available for choosing the right bag for European train tripsThere are dozens of backpacks designed for travel on the market, and I’ve tested many. Some are amazing, some less so. There isn’t one single backpack perfect for everyone, as travel needs differ. For example, choosing backpacks for traveling on trains in Europe involves considering comfort for carrying through stations, ease of access inside the train, and size/weight for luggage racks.

This guide points out different features so you can choose what’s most important for your travel style.

Travel Backpack Sizes

Illustration of how travel backpacks are measured or fit into luggage templates, relevant for carry-on size on trainsIllustration of how travel backpacks are measured or fit into luggage templates, relevant for carry-on size on trainsBackpacks are generally measured in liters (e.g., 30L, 45L, 50L). Note that companies measure volume differently. Also, bags come in different shapes, so don’t judge size on liters alone.

As a general rule, the maximum size for a carry-on travel backpack is around 43-45 liters. You’ll want to check specific airline and train operator requirements and actual bag dimensions, as they vary. Budget European airlines often care more about weight than dimensions, which is crucial when packing for a trip involving flights and trains.

What size is best for train travel? It depends on your needs and how much you plan to carry between stations. Remember, trip length doesn’t strictly dictate backpack size; you can do laundry on longer trips.

Comparing Travel Backpacks Vs. Hiking Backpacks

Comparison showing hiking style, hybrid, and travel backpacks side-by-side, highlighting differences for train travel comfortComparison showing hiking style, hybrid, and travel backpacks side-by-side, highlighting differences for train travel comfortAs you look at backpacks, you’ll see two main styles: travel and hiking. While travel backpacks are generally recommended for urban/point-to-point travel common with trains, hiking bags are also used.

Here are the main differences:

Clamshell/Suitcase Opening vs Top Opening Travel Backpacks

The most obvious difference is how the bag opens. Travel backpacks zip open like a suitcase, offering easy access—a major plus on a train when you need something from the bottom of your bag. Hiking backpacks have a single opening at the top, making them a pain to pack and unpack.

Travel Backpack Suspension System (Shoulder Straps, etc.)

Comparison of hiking-style versus traditional backpack shoulder strap designs, impacting comfort during travelComparison of hiking-style versus traditional backpack shoulder strap designs, impacting comfort during travelVisual comparison of advanced backpack harness fit versus basic shoulder straps, showing how weight is distributedVisual comparison of advanced backpack harness fit versus basic shoulder straps, showing how weight is distributedComfort largely depends on the suspension system (shoulder straps, hipbelt). Hiking backpacks are generally more comfortable for long periods due to more advanced harnesses and better weight distribution—beneficial if you have long walks to/from stations. However, their design can be less practical for urban travel.

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Some travel bags have advanced harnesses and hip belts, balancing comfort with practicality. A hip belt helps transfer weight to your hips, making a heavy load easier to carry, though it adds bulk. Padding also adds comfort but increases weight/bulk.

Recommended Travel Backpacks With A Hiking-Style Harness Suitable for Train Travel: The Osprey Farpoint and Osprey Fairview mix hiking comfort with travel practicality. The Tortuga Travel Backpack and AER Travel Pack 3 also feature robust harness systems. The Kelty Redwing is a budget option with good comfort.

Travel Backpack Size & Layout

Travel backpacks are often boxier, like a suitcase, which is efficient for packing and maximizing space—useful when packing for multiple destinations visited by train. Hiking backpacks are typically long and skinny, less efficient for packing but can sit tighter against your back. It’s a trade-off between packing efficiency and carrying comfort.

Travel Backpack Weight

Hiking backpacks tend to be lighter. Travel backpack weights vary (2.5 lbs to 7 lbs+), with heavier bags often having more padding and pockets. This weight can impact your ability to meet budget airline weight limits if your train trip is part of a longer journey involving flights.

Final Thoughts: Travel Vs. Hiking Backpacks

Despite some shortcomings, travel-style backpacks are generally preferred for urban travel and navigating train systems due to their ease of access. They also tend to be more stylish than brightly colored hiking bags. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and priorities (access vs. comfort).

Gender-Specific Travel Backpacks

Most travel backpacks are unisex. Some offer small, medium, and large sizes, helpful if you are shorter or taller. A few companies offer female-specific designs with shaped shoulder straps, though many women use unisex bags comfortably.

Recommended Women-Specific Travel Backpacks: Kelty Redwing 40, Osprey Fairview 40, & Osprey Fairview 55.

Travel Backpack Configuration, Pockets, & Layout

Internal view showing the main compartment and laptop section of the Osprey Farpoint backpack, illustrating organization for travelInternal view showing the main compartment and laptop section of the Osprey Farpoint backpack, illustrating organization for travelMost travel backpacks have one large compartment and smaller pockets for organization. Bag makers balance organization (more pockets = more bulk). Minimalist bags with a few well-placed pockets are often preferred. Exterior pockets are very handy for quickly accessing items like train tickets, phones, or snacks during a journey.

Laptop Compartment

Laptop compartment access from the exterior of a travel backpack, essential for security checks during train or air travelLaptop compartment access from the exterior of a travel backpack, essential for security checks during train or air travelIf traveling with electronics, a laptop compartment is important. Look for one accessible from the exterior without unpacking the main bag, convenient for security checks or just grabbing your device on the train. Placing the compartment against your back provides better protection and balance.

Travel Backpack Weight & Bulk

Comparison of different travel backpack shapes including minimalist, utilitarian, and outdoorsy stylesComparison of different travel backpack shapes including minimalist, utilitarian, and outdoorsy stylesBackpack weight impacts comfort, especially when carrying it through train stations. A heavier empty bag means less capacity before hitting weight limits, which budget airlines (often used for accessing Europe) frequently enforce more strictly than size limits. Choose a weight that balances comfort, durability, and potential weight restrictions.

Structure and Internal Frame

Good travel backpacks have some rigidity from an internal frame or plastic sheet. This structure helps distribute weight across your back and keeps the load stable, making the bag feel lighter and more comfortable to carry, particularly through busy stations or over distances.

Stowable Shoulder Straps & Hip Belt

Osprey Farpoint backpack showing stowable shoulder straps zipped away, useful for checking the bag or stowing on trainsOsprey Farpoint backpack showing stowable shoulder straps zipped away, useful for checking the bag or stowing on trainsOsprey Farpoint backpack with straps stowed, ready to be placed in an overhead compartment on a train or planeOsprey Farpoint backpack with straps stowed, ready to be placed in an overhead compartment on a train or planeWhile not essential, stowable straps are a nice feature. They allow you to safely check the bag without straps getting caught. More importantly for train travel, tucking away straps before boarding makes navigating narrow aisles and stowing the bag in overhead compartments or luggage racks much easier and less likely to snag on things.

Recommended Backpacks With Stowable Straps: Osprey Farpoint, Osprey Fairview, Osprey Porter, Tortuga Travel Backpack, & eBags Motherlode Weekender.

Travel Backpack Materials/Fabrics

Close-up view showing different backpack fabrics and materials, indicating durability and weightClose-up view showing different backpack fabrics and materials, indicating durability and weightMost travel backpacks use synthetic materials, usually nylon, chosen for being lightweight and durable. Fabric thickness (denier, like 210D, 420HD, 1680D) indicates weight and contributes to durability, but the weave also matters. For the bags recommended here, the fabrics are generally durable enough for regular travel.

Sturdy Zippers

Example of weather-sealed zippers on a travel backpack, providing protection for contents during travelExample of weather-sealed zippers on a travel backpack, providing protection for contents during travelZippers are common failure points. YKK is the gold standard. While not a dealbreaker, YKK zippers are a mark of quality. Weather-sealed zippers offer extra protection from rain, a helpful feature but not strictly necessary unless you expect heavy downpours.

Top and Side Handles on Travel Backpacks

Top and side handles on the Tortuga Setout backpack, useful for lifting and carrying the bag on trains or busesTop and side handles on the Tortuga Setout backpack, useful for lifting and carrying the bag on trains or busesSturdy handles on the top and side are incredibly useful for train travel. They make it easy to quickly grab your bag from a luggage rack, pull it down from an overhead compartment, or simply carry it short distances without putting it on your back.

Weather Resistance

Travel backpack in light rain, illustrating weather resistance capabilities or need for a rain coverTravel backpack in light rain, illustrating weather resistance capabilities or need for a rain coverFor travel within European cities and using trains, being overly weather-resistant isn’t typically a major concern. Most brief exposure to rain won’t soak your belongings. If you anticipate significant rain, a cheap rain cover is an effective solution. Note that few bags are truly waterproof.

Backpack Style and Aesthetics

Comparison of travel backpack styles: minimalist urban, utilitarian, and outdoorsy, influencing travel lookComparison of travel backpack styles: minimalist urban, utilitarian, and outdoorsy, influencing travel lookTravel backpacks come in various styles—sleek urban, utilitarian, or outdoorsy. While aesthetics are personal, some travelers prefer urban styling to avoid looking like a tourist. However, more stylish bags can sometimes be less comfortable than performance-focused hiking hybrids.

Travel Backpack Prices

Well-made travel backpacks aren’t cheap, ranging from around $140 to over $350. If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying used or checking for sales on previous models. Investing in a quality bag can be worthwhile for frequent train travel.

How To Match Your Backpack To Your Travel Style

Selection of recommended travel backpacks from the guide, helping travelers choose the best fit for their train travel style in EuropeSelection of recommended travel backpacks from the guide, helping travelers choose the best fit for their train travel style in EuropeChoosing the right backpack depends heavily on your travel style, especially when focusing on backpacks for traveling on trains in Europe. Consider these points:

  • Trip Duration & Laundry: Longer trips still allow for smaller bags if you plan to do laundry.
  • Packing Style: Are you a minimalist or do you pack heavy? Choose a size that fits.
  • Mobility: Will you rely on public transport/walking or taxis? Comfort for carrying matters more if you’ll be walking distances to stations or accommodations.
  • Season: Winter travel with bulkier clothes might require a slightly larger bag.
  • Comfort Priority: If you have back issues or prioritize comfort, a bag with a strong suspension system is key.

Tailoring your backpack choice to how you plan to use trains and move between places in Europe is essential for a comfortable trip.

Summary Of The Best Travel Backpacks

The author's Osprey Farpoint 40L backpack, a personal favorite for carry-on travel and navigating Europe by trainThe author's Osprey Farpoint 40L backpack, a personal favorite for carry-on travel and navigating Europe by trainHere’s a quick wrap-up of my favorite travel backpacks, considering their suitability for European train adventures:

  • Osprey Farpoint & Fairview: Best all-around, balancing comfort and practical access.
  • Aer Travel Pack 3: Best minimalist/utilitarian, great style for urban travel.
  • Cotopaxi Allpa 42L: Best design meets style, excellent organization.
  • Osprey Sojourn Porter: Best gear-hauler for capacity-focused travelers.
  • Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L: Most full-featured and durable option.
  • Kelty Redwing Tactile: Best budget-friendly choice, hybrid design.
  • Osprey Atmos: Best hiking-style for maximum comfort (less practical access).
  • eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack: Best cheap option (less comfort).
  • Patagonia Black Hole: Best duffle-style alternative, sleek and simple.

Tips For Packing Your Travel Backpack

Regardless of the backpack you choose, I highly suggest using packing cubes. These make it easy to compartmentalize clothes, keeping everything organized and accessible—ideal for finding things quickly on a train without making a mess. Trust us, these will make backpacking much easier.

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I’ve already written a guide to packing with packing cubes. But, if you’re too lazy to click, my favorite packing cubes are made by Eagle Creek.

FYI: Most brands make packing cubes specifically designed for their bags, but they’re often kind of expensive.

Backpacking Europe Packing List

Example of items included in an ultralight packing list for backpacking Europe by trainExample of items included in an ultralight packing list for backpacking Europe by trainNow that you’ve found the perfect backpack for travel it’s time to start packing! I put together quite a few different packing guides to help you out.

For general packing tips, check out my Europe Packing List. I also have my Travel Packing List for Women and a Backpacking Europe Packing List.

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James Feess

Founder at The Savvy Backpacker

James Feess is the creator of The Savvy Backpacker and the author of the book “The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To Europe On A Budget”. He’s been blogging about budget travel in Europe since 2010.

Portrait photo of James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker and author of this guidePortrait photo of James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker and author of this guide

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