Best Rucksack for Travelling in Asia: Expert Tested Reviews & Guide

Looking for the Best Rucksack For Travelling In Asia but feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry, this expert guide is here to help! Let me guide you through selecting the right rucksack size, type, and features – based on your travel style and focusing on suitability for journeys across Asia.

If you’re in a hurry, check out my top pick recommended for versatile travel:

Peak Design Travel Backpack

view at Peak Design

In my work as a full-time travel blogger, I’ve used numerous rucksacks, allowing me to learn all about the best rucksack brands and the important features to look for, particularly for diverse travel environments like those found in Asia.

One key lesson is that no rucksack is perfect in every respect. For example, more features and compartments often mean a heavier bag. A pack ideal for one travel style (e.g., city breaks) may not be suitable for another (e.g., adventure travel across varied Asian terrains). There are always trade-offs in comfort, features, price, weight, or durability. Ultimately, it’s about choosing the best rucksack for you and your specific travel plans in Asia.

That said, some rucksacks truly stand out and are sure to make your life on the road in Asia a lot easier. Here are some of my absolute favorites that I love to recommend.

Note: All rucksacks reviewed physically! No sponsored content.

Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite open, showing interior organization suitable for packing light for Asia travelOne of my all-time favorites: the Tortuga Travel Backpack

How to Find the Right Travel Rucksack for Asia

When choosing a travel rucksack, marketing can be either helpful or misleading. If there’s one filter you can use to tell if a rucksack is actually good, it’s balance.

The perfect rucksack for travel in Asia strikes a delicate balance between functionality and simplicity, durability and weight, and capacity and carry-on compliance (crucial for multi-leg journeys). Some brands emphasize complexity as innovation, but seasoned travelers know that smart design is often more practical than feature overload, especially when navigating busy terminals or local transport in Asia.

Here are 4 critical factors that should guide your rucksack decision for traveling in Asia:

What I considered	Relevance for Asia Travel
35-45L capacity	Ideal size range for carry-on travel, often sufficient for diverse trips across Asia.
Not too heavy	Easier to carry in heat/humidity, leaves more baggage weight allowance for souvenirs/gear.
Streamlined design	Avoids snagging in crowded places, keeps essentials accessible without excess complexity.
Material & build quality	Reliable on the road in varying climates/conditions, made to last through many adventures.

Simplicity vs complexity. Don’t be overly impressed with rucksacks boasting excessive features. While they look great in marketing, they can be impractical in real life, adding weight and making it harder to find things – something you want to avoid when moving quickly through airports or train stations.

A good example is the Tropicfeel Shell, with its many systems. This might look appealing online, but in practice, it adds weight, bulk, and complexity. Having a few distinct pockets is great; having too many makes you forget where you put everything. A balanced design is generally better for travel efficiency.

Tropicfeel Shell backpack's complex wardrobe system, less ideal for minimalist travel in AsiaComplex backpacks (like Tropicfeel Shell) are not always the best. This wardrobe system seems amazing until you realize it greatly reduces your packing space and forces you to pack a specific way.

The weight advantage. This is often underappreciated. A lower pack weight makes it easier to carry, especially in hot climates common in many parts of Asia, and leaves more of your baggage allowance free. I review packs in person and on actual trips to get a feel for weight and handling in real travel scenarios.

Carry-on optimized. I HIGHLY recommend traveling carry-on only if possible, even for trips to Asia, due to incredible savings on airfare. Many airlines now offer cheaper carry-on-only rates. Saving $200-$300 per flight is significant. Even if cost isn’t the main issue, reducing luggage size increases comfort and mobility, making it much easier to navigate cities and transport hubs in Asia.

Tip: Not sure what size is right for you? Check my size table at the end of this guide. Packing light can allow you to use a carry-on size pack even for multi-week trips across Asia. [internal_links]

Production quality. The quality of materials and especially the zippers is crucial for a rucksack used for traveling in Asia, where conditions can be demanding. Cheaper rucksacks have failed me in the past. A truly durable and weather-resistant pack provides not just comfort but also longevity, standing up to varied climates and frequent use.

Close-up of Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 hardened anti-theft zipper design, a plus for security in Asia travelPacsafe Venturesafe EXP45’s hardened anti-theft zipper design

Men wearing Pakt Travel Backpack, highlighting quality materials suitable for travel in AsiaZooming in on the Pakt Travel Backpack’s quality materials

Top 10 Rucksacks for Travel (Tested & Traveler-Approved)

My number one rule: Every travel rucksack I review goes on at least one real trip. You can’t truly know a product just from unboxing it! My reviews are sometimes based on review samples, other times I buy rucksacks I find interesting.

As a professional travel blogger for over 10 years, I’ve done a lot of traveling, and even lived out of a rucksack for some time. Having used over 60 different travel rucksacks – yes, I’m a pack enthusiast! – let me share here my absolute top picks, considering their suitability for various travel styles often encountered in Asia.

(All rucksacks here should be fine for carry-on travel, though some can optionally expand beyond standard dimensions).

Quick Overview: Best Travel Rucksacks for Asia

Rucksack Name	Best For	Key Features	Links
Peak Design Travel Backpack	Premium carry-on, city travel in Asia	Versatile (35-45L), premium design/materials, amazing optional accessories, reliable.	Check at Peak Design
Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite	Versatile budget carry-on for Asia travel	Balanced design, comfortable harness, durable/rugged materials, waterproof zippers.	Check at Tortuga
Osprey Farpoint series	Budget adventure pack for comfort in Asia	Lightweight, easy suitcase-style access, highly comfortable harness for extended wear, amazing value.	Check at Osprey Check on REI
Cotopaxi Allpa	Budget adventure pack for organization in Asia	Colorful design, raincover included, amazing internal organization (reduces need for packing cubes).	Check at Cotopaxi Check on REI
Salkan Backpacker	Premium adventure pack for longer Asia trips	2-in-1 system (main + daypack), water-resistant polyester, beautiful/stylish, comfortable adjustable harness.	Check at Salkan
Peak Design Outdoor Backpack	Tech + outdoor pack for Asia adventures	Super comfy suspension, clever tech/packing features, sturdy/waterproof/durable materials.	Check at Peak Design
Pakt Travel Backpack	Smaller carry-on for shorter Asia trips	Amazing internal organization, unique features (waterproof section, secret pouch), highly comfortable, sling bag waist strap.	Check at Pakt
Tom Bihn Techonaut	Premium lightweight pack for Asia minimalists	Right number of features, clever compartments, great comfort/fit, wonderfully lightweight (saves luggage allowance).	Check at Tom Bihn
Patagonia Black Hole MLC	Duffel-style backpack for versatile Asia travel	Amazing versatility (backpack, suitcase, duffel), relatively lightweight, max carry-on size, many organizational options.	Check at Patagonia Check on REI
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45	Best security features for Asia destinations	Unique single-lock system, integrated security features, comfortable straps/handles, slash-proof material.	Check at Pacsafe Check on REI

1. Peak Design Travel Backpack

Best premium carry-on rucksack for city travel in Asia

In a nutshell: Perfect usability, organization, and design, ideal for air travel, holidays, digital nomading, or business travel in and around major Asian hubs. Less ideal for extended outdoors/adventure use.

Sizes: 45L

Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack viewed from the front, a popular choice for modern travel in Asia

For a general-purpose carry-on rucksack suitable for numerous trips across Asia, I highly recommend the Peak Design 45L. I’m a big fan of the Peak Design brand overall, known for simplicity and minimalism alongside neat, useful features. The 45L Travel Backpack has been my main luggage for 5 years, performing reliably even on long trips.

What I love most about the Peak Design 45L is its blend of simplicity and innovation. It feels incredibly well thought out, from magnetic pouches to hidden straps and foldable origami-style dividers that streamline packing – excellent for keeping organized on multi-destination Asia trips. Pairing it with Peak Design’s accessories enhances its functionality seamlessly.

The pack is adaptable, with a default 35L carry-on compliant size, expanding to 45L when extra space is needed (though be mindful of airline limits in Asia when expanded).

It’s also tough, thanks to its 400D nylon shell, maintaining its structure and protecting gear from varying conditions encountered during Asia travel.

The only downside is that the thin shoulder straps make it less suitable for extensive hiking or adventure travel common in parts of Asia. It’s comfortable for carrying through terminals but not for long treks. (See other picks for that).

This pack now comes in a new Coyote color added in 2025, besides the standard grey or black.

Price: $240

Check at Peak Design read full review

Why I like it:

• Versatile carry-on size (35L, expands to 45L)
• Incredible design with premium materials
• Optional accessories are highly useful for organizing tech/gear
• Proven durability after 5+ years of use, suitable for frequent travel in Asia

What you should know:

• Thin shoulder straps, not ideal for long hikes or backpacking through challenging Asian terrain.
• Water bottle pockets can be tight when fully packed.

2. Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite

Best versatile budget-friendly carry-on rucksack for Asia travel

In a nutshell: A fantastic ‘multi-role rucksack’ perfect for adventure trips, holidays, or work. Get this if you need a great all-rounder that adapts well to different travel kinds you might experience in Asia.

Size: 40L

Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite interior view with organization pockets, aiding efficient packing for Asia trips

Tortuga’s 4th-generation Travel Backpack Lite is a lightweight, minimalist pack I highly recommend for adventure travel, backpacking, or digital nomad life, all popular ways to travel in Asia.

The brand originated from its founders’ backpacking trip around Europe, seeking a ‘just right’ pack. They’ve succeeded in creating what I think is the best all-rounder world travel rucksack, particularly effective for the diverse landscapes and travel styles of Asia. Testing my Tortuga solidified this impression.

The best feature is the incredible harness. It’s extremely comfortable, almost on par with hiking or trekking rucksacks, while remaining a regular travel pack – perfect when traveling by bus, train, or reaching destinations on foot, common in many parts of Asia.

The suspension system is fully featured with a hip belt, sternum strap, load lifter straps, and a properly padded back – everything needed for comfort on the go.

If you like premium rucksacks like the Peak Design but desire more structure and back/shoulder support for potentially heavier loads or longer carries, the Tortuga fits the bill. The Pro version is even height-adjustable for a perfect torso fit.

Organization is easy with numerous pouches and compartments, and premium, durable materials are used throughout, including a weather-resistant SHELL200 exterior and waterproof zippers – great for Asia’s unpredictable climates. It balances many features while getting the basics right.

Note that Tortuga only ships to US customers. If you’re not American, check out other recommendations below more easily available globally.

Price: $250

Check at Tortuga read full review

Why I like it:

• Balanced design with useful storage options
• Amazingly comfortable straps and suspension system, excellent for carrying through Asian cities or trails
• Durable and rugged materials with waterproof zippers, handles diverse weather in Asia

What you should know:

• Laptop compartment is against your back, not in a separate quick-access area.
• Availability limited to US customers directly from Tortuga.

3. Osprey Farpoint Series

Best low-budget adventure rucksack for comfort in Asia

In a nutshell: A classic backpacker’s pack offering great value and a superb suspension system. Best for adventurous and outdoor-focused trips across Asia.

Size: 40L, 55L (a 40L + 15L daypack combo), 70L

Side-by-side comparison of Osprey Farpoint rucksacks (40L, 55L, 70L), showing size options for Asia travelA side-by-side look at the 40, 55, and 70
Osprey Farpoint 55L rucksack with detachable daypack, a flexible option for multi-leg trips in AsiaThe Farpoint 55’s daypack combo
Osprey Farpoint Trek 55L and Farpoint 40L rucksacks side-by-side, comparing adventure travel options for AsiaLeft: Farpoint Trek 55. Right: the Farpoint 40.

The Farpoint is widely mentioned online, especially on backpacking blogs focused on Asia, due to its amazing value and quality across all sizes.

Comfort is the main benefit of the Osprey Farpoint 40. Features like the ribbed back panel, trampoline surface, adjustment straps, and height-adjustable harness are often found on hiking packs, ensuring it’s extremely comfortable to carry even for extended periods – essential when hosteling or backpacking through regions with less developed transport infrastructure in Asia.

All packs in the series have a height-adjustable back panel. Larger models offer extra hip belt padding for heavier loads, while the 40L maintains a streamlined profile.

For storage, it’s best used with packing cubes. The Farpoint 40 has fewer pockets than some fancier air travel rucksacks but is reliable for adventure trips. Packing cubes can easily add internal organization. The 55L and 70L include a detachable 15L daypack with a laptop sleeve, useful for exploring once you reach your destination.

For use as a carry-on, the 40L complies with most airline restrictions relevant for travel to and within Asia. The 55L can work if you detach the daypack (used as a personal item), while the 70L is best checked. All Farpoint models are slightly heavier than ultralight bags but perform well given their full suspension and comfort features.

Overall, the 40L is great for packing light and sticking to carry-on rules on shorter trips. For longer trips (a week or two) with a detachable daypack need, the 55L is ideal. The 70L is for big adventures requiring extensive gear, best checked in.

If undecided, check my guide to choose the right Osprey Farpoint version for your Asia trip style.

Osprey Farpoint 40L rucksack, a recommended budget adventure pack for comfortable travel in AsiaOsprey Farpoint 40 price: approx. $185

Check Osprey Check on REI read full review

Why I like it:

• Lightweight (1.6kg / 3.5 lbs)
• Easy suitcase-style access
• Highly comfortable to wear even for extended periods, great for backpacking through Asia
• Amazing value for its features

What you should know:

• Only basic organizational features (may require packing cubes).
• Narrow water bottle pockets.

Same pack — but a women’s specific fit

The Osprey Fairview 40 offers the exact same features as the Farpoint 40 but is designed specifically for a better fit for women travelers heading to Asia.

Having used other Osprey packs like the Porter 46 or Farpoint 55, I find the Farpoint 40 (and Fairview 40) the best combination of features and comfort for general travel, especially for carry-on focused trips in Asia.

4. Cotopaxi Allpa

Best low-budget adventure rucksack for organization in Asia

In a nutshell: A fantastic alternative to the Osprey Farpoint, with slightly less comfort but significantly more organizational features – ideal if you prioritize packing ease for your Asia adventure.

Size: 35L, 42L

Cotopaxi Allpa rucksack interior, highlighting its excellent built-in organization for Asia trips

Starting at $220, the Cotopaxi Allpa is one of the best-value rucksacks available. I appreciate its balance between features and price – more affordable than premium options, yet featuring a rugged, durable design suitable for diverse conditions in Asia. It’s especially great for backpacker-style adventure travel but works well for city trips too.

The internal organization features are amazing, potentially eliminating the need for packing cubes. Its harness with a height-adjustable hip belt provides comfort for long periods, making it suitable for adventure trips where you might be carrying it for a while.

The Allpa comes in funky Andean-inspired colors, but an all-black version is also available if preferred.

The Allpa is super easy to organize, thanks to its clamshell design. One side has a large open compartment, the other has three zipped cubes for smaller items. A rain cover and shoulder strap for duffel-style carry are included – adding versatility for Asia travel. Given its internal layout, you might not need extra accessories like packing cubes.

It comes in 35L and 42L sizes, both carry-on. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35 is the best-seller, recommended for most. I prefer the Cotopaxi Allpa 42 for maximum carry-on space.

The one controversial aspect might be the rubbery 1000D polyester outer shell. It’s very sturdy and protects gear well from the elements, but can look a bit less structured if the bag isn’t full.

Price: $250

Check at Cotopaxi Check on REI read full review

Why I liked it:

• Fresh and colorful design (or discreet black option)
• Includes shoulder straps and raincover, useful additions for Asia travel
• Amazing internal organization (no packing cubes needed)
• Sturdy, reliable materials, stands up to wear and tear

What you should know:

• The rubbery 1000D polyester outer shell is a matter of personal preference.

5. Salkan Backpacker

Best premium adventure rucksack for longer Asia trips

In a nutshell: My top choice for a comfortable, easy-to-organize, and stylish backpacker-style pack. A pack that feels good to carry and looks great too – perfect for exploring various regions in Asia.

Sizes: 35L, 45L, 45L+20L daypack combo

Salkan Backpacker rucksack with detachable daypack attached, demonstrating the 2-in-1 system for Asia travel

The Salkan Backpacker looks and feels like a retro canvas rucksack, but is made from durable, rain-resistant polyester – practical for varied Asian climates.

It features a 2-in-1 system with a daypack and main pack that work seamlessly. You can buy them separately or together. The main pack is 45 liters (expandable to 55), and the daypack is 20 liters. Salkan offers a customized designer to mix/match colors and straps.

Salkan’s packs have a fully-featured suspension system with padded straps, back, and a well-padded hip belt, comfortable for carrying for longer periods, like navigating towns or getting to transit hubs in Asia.

The best part of the harness is its full adjustability to match torso length, which is excellent for travelers who aren’t of average height.

I tested this rucksack on a six-week island-hopping trip. It performed well in varying weather, and its rain-resistant features make it reliable for trips across Asia, including humid regions.

Besides the original, there’s a slightly more compact 35L carry-on edition. I reviewed the Salkan carry-on in detail here.

Price: $315

Check at Salkan read full review

Why I liked it:

• 2-in-1 system (main pack + detachable daypack) offers flexibility for Asia travel
• Super stylish design stands out
• Highly comfortable to wear for extended periods
• Fully height adjustable harness for personalized fit
• Loads of space and pockets for organization

What you should know:

• A bit on the heavier side compared to some others.

6. Peak Design Outdoor Backpack

Best tech+outdoor rucksack for adventurers in Asia

In a nutshell: A fantastic choice if you need a tech-friendly pack (laptops, camera gear) that still performs very well outdoors or on a backpacking trip, blending urban usability with trail readiness suitable for diverse Asian landscapes.

Sizes: 25L, 45L

Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 45L in Eclipse color viewed from the front, a durable option for travel in Asia

Note: I’m travelling with this pack now! Separate review + photos forthcoming.

This pack occupies a unique niche, sitting between a tech bag and a hiking bag. If you travel with electronics but also plan to wear your pack for long periods in the outdoors – ideal for combining city stays with exploring nature in Asia – this pack is a perfect blend. It has a clean, minimalist look while using rugged, weatherproof materials.

For years, I noted that the standard Peak Design Travel Backpack, while amazing, wasn’t ideal for adventure trips due to thinner straps. Peak Design created this line specifically to address that, offering better support for more demanding travel.

I love the attention to detail on the Peak Design Outdoor, including a hidden passport compartment and a clever top-access loop that allows quick grabs and expands capacity beyond carry-on size if needed (remembering airline limits). It offers both quick top access and a full clamshell opening for easy packing.

It’s more serious about comfort than other Peak Design packs, featuring an internal frame, full hip belt, load lifter straps, and wide, padded shoulder straps. I’ve found it comfortable for carrying for several hours – a major plus for varied travel days in Asia.

However, note that it’s not quite an expedition or trekking rucksack like those from Osprey or Deuter. Peak Design’s roots are in photography and tech gear, which influences the features and design. It’s more optimized for tech carry and usability than extreme outdoor readiness. It fully supports Peak Design’s modular accessories like packing cubes and tech pouches.

The other downside is the price. At an RRP of $329.95, it’s on the higher end.

Peak Design Outdoor Backpack 45L in a travel setting, suitable for tech-focused adventures in AsiaPrice: $330

Check at Peak Design

Why I liked it:

• Unique blend of tech-friendly features and outdoor rucksack design
• Extremely sturdy and durable materials, handles rough travel
• Streamlined design with clever features
• Comfortable harness for moderate hikes or extended carrying in Asia

What you should know:

• Not designed for multi-day trekking expeditions.
• Premium price point.

7. Pakt Travel Backpack

Best smaller carry-on rucksack for shorter Asia trips

In a nutshell: Not everyone needs a large 40L+ carry-on. This 30L pack has many clever features, perfect for business travel, overnights, or weekend trips, or as a supporting bag with other luggage when traveling in Asia.

Size: 35L

Pakt Travel Backpack open, revealing its dual-compartment organization system for efficient packing for Asia trips

At 35 liters, the Pakt Travel Backpack is smaller than the 40-45L packs reviewed so far. It’s perfect if you need a more streamlined size for shorter trips within Asia or between countries. The Pakt fits within virtually all carry-on restrictions, even stringent European airlines (useful if connecting via Europe to Asia).

Superficially, the Pakt might not look unique. However, its true strength lies in its internal functionality.

I love the internal organization. Most clamshell rucksacks offer one deep main compartment, but the Pakt splits this space into two halves, with the laptop compartment sandwiched between them. This design is practical for both security and ease of access.

Due to this split, it might not fit bulky hiking boots. However, this layout makes organizing items significantly easier. You can use packing cubes, but they aren’t strictly necessary. For comfort, access, and organization in a 30L size, this is my favorite rucksack.

I have the Black edition, but it also comes in Ocean Blue and a Green/khaki. You can check all colors here.

What I appreciate most are the small design details, like the quilted interior padding, which adds a pleasant tactile experience when packing or unpacking.

Read my full Pakt Travel Backpack review here.

Pakt Travel Backpack in use in an airport, demonstrating its suitability for carry-on travel in AsiaPrice: $325

Check at Pakt read full review

Why I liked it:

• Amazing internal organization simplifies packing for Asia trips
• Many unique and clever features (waterproof compartment, secret pouch, waist strap converts to sling bag)
• Highly comfortable for its size
• Waist strap doubles as a useful sling bag for quick access items

What you should know:

• 30L size is too small for very long trips unless you pack extremely minimally.
• Doesn’t easily fit large shoes due to the central division.

8. Tom Bihn Techonaut

Best premium lightweight rucksack for minimalist travel in Asia

In a nutshell: It doesn’t have the most zippers or clever features compared to some competitors, but it’s renowned for premium quality and low weight (2.2 lbs / 1kg), helping you save luggage allowance and travel minimally in style across Asia.

Size: 30L – 45L

Tom Bihn Techonaut 45L rucksack viewed from the front, a durable and lightweight option for travel

The Tom Bihn Techonaut 45L is masterfully designed to handle a key challenge of travel: carrying what you need while fitting within most airline carry-on limits, which is particularly useful for navigating the many different airlines in Asia.

The 45-liter capacity is ideal for extended trips. If you pack light and wash clothes on the road, it can suffice for months of travel in Asia. For weekend trips or commutes, the 30-liter version is better suited.

Its sleek aesthetic isn’t as flashy as some brands, and the ballistic nylon isn’t my personal favorite look, but its practical design and functionality are where it shines.

The internal layout is highly practical. It has a U-shaped main opening for easy packing, compression straps, and a large end pocket suitable for shoes or laundry – useful for separating items in humid Asian climates. Side pockets and a top zip provide quick access.

A significant update is the laptop compartment. It’s padded, suspended, fits up to 16” in the 30L (larger in 45L), making the Techonaut a viable travel-and-work bag for digital nomads in Asia. It also has a passthrough sleeve for attaching to rolling luggage.

Tom Bihn offers unique optional accessories, like a separately purchased internal frame for added structure with heavier loads, or a thicker hip belt for more support.

The price tag is a consideration. At $402.00, it’s a premium investment.

Price: $402

Check at Tom Bihn read full review

Why I liked it:

• Just the right number of organizational features without being overwhelming
• Clever side and bottom compartments aid packing
• Great comfort and fit for carrying
• Wonderfully lightweight, maximizes precious baggage allowance for travel in Asia

What you should know:

• Carries a premium price tag (one of the most expensive reviewed).

9. Patagonia Black Hole MLC

Best duffel-style rucksack for versatile Asia travel

In a nutshell: Some trips are better suited for a suitcase-style duffel bag. This Patagonia is my favorite, offering duffel functionality with the option to be used in comfortable backpack mode – versatile for diverse travel in Asia.

Size: 30L, 45L

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L in backpack mode, demonstrating its alternative carry style for versatile travel in Asia

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L open, showing internal organization and laptop sleeve for travel

Strictly speaking, the Patagonia Black Hole MLC (Maximum Legal Carry-on) isn’t primarily a rucksack. It’s a duffel that can be used in “backpack mode.”

Duffels are excellent for simply packing many items into a large compartment. Unlike other duffels I’ve used, like the Osprey Transporter or Peak Design Travel Duffel, the Patagonia MLC includes numerous storage options and a laptop compartment.

The clever aspect is that the backpack straps fully stow away (turning it into a suitcase) or detach to be used as a single shoulder strap (cross-body bag). The duffel/cross-body mode is generally the most comfortable way to carry it, as the backpack harness is basic.

While the harness is simple, meaning it’s not ideal if used exclusively as a backpack for long periods, its greater versatility often compensates.

Re-released with a new design in 2023, the MLC is perfect for carry-on air travel to Asia. It’s also great as an extra duffel on overland trips or when traveling by private transport like campervans, where you don’t need to carry it far on your back.

Price: $239

Check at Patagonia check on REI

Why I liked it:

• Amazing versatility: use as a rucksack, suitcase, or duffel, adapting to different travel segments in Asia
• Relatively lightweight for its capacity
• Maximum carry-on size compliance
• Many organizational options despite the duffel style
• Attractively priced for its features

What you should know:

• Shoulder straps are basic, making it less comfortable if carried exclusively as a backpack for extended periods.

10. Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45

Best security features in a rucksack for destinations in Asia

In a nutshell: If venturing into areas where security is a major concern, this pack is highly recommended due to its superior anti-theft features. It’s also an excellent max carry-on size rucksack generally.

Size: 45L

Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 rucksack viewed from the side, highlighting its rugged exterior and carry handles for travel

I recently tested the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 on a trip and was impressed by its essential features and comfortable, padded harness – a solid base for travel. The security features are the key highlight.

Pacsafe’s major achievement is an integrated lock system that’s easy to use consistently.

Both main compartments can be closed using the same ingeniously designed bolt lock. It can be further secured with an included steel cable lock, allowing you to fix the entire rucksack to a fixed object like a luggage rack – invaluable in hostels or on overnight transport in Asia. The outer material is also slash-proof.

Security is this pack‘s main selling point, but it’s also a great carry-on rucksack overall. It has standard organizational features, including a laptop sleeve, and is comfortable to carry. The main compartment is a large open space, allowing flexible packing (packing cubes are recommended if you like internal structure).

Based on the harness quality, I wouldn’t use it for extensive hiking adventures, as the moderately padded straps might become uncomfortable over long distances.

I’ve primarily used the Pacsafe at airports and during transit, where its security features shine. For travel styles involving overnight buses/trains, navigating crowded markets, or visiting destinations where theft is a higher risk, this rucksack provides excellent deterrence.

You can read my full Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 review here.

Price: $290

Check at Pacsafe Check on REI read full review

Why I liked it:

• Unique feature lets you secure all compartments with one lock, simplifying security
• Integrated security system is practical and easy to use
• Highly comfortable straps and handles for carrying
• Slash-proof material adds peace of mind in busy Asian locations

What you should know:

• Security focus means no quick-access pocket on the front.
• Laptop compartment is in the front pocket (against your back would be preferable for balance).

Conclusion

I chose these 10 rucksacks because each excels in its way and offers benefits for travelers heading to Asia. Many readers ask for a more personal opinion based on my experience.

If I were doing more city trips or traveling in more developed parts of Asia, I’d definitely use a Peak Design 45L (my main pack for shorter trips) or perhaps the smaller Pakt for weekend trips.

However, I often do backpacking trips in developing countries, common across vast areas of Asia, involving more exploring on foot and dealing with varied infrastructure. This requires extra comfort and robust storage. So, for my longer adventure trips, I opt for other rucksacks.

If I’m not flying carry-on, I’ll reach for my 45L Salkan Backpacker (best as a check-in bag, great for overland travel). For carry-on travel combined with adventuring, I usually pick the Osprey Farpoint purely for its comfort level, even if I sometimes miss advanced organizational features.

What Size Rucksack to Choose for Asia Travel?

Many travel rucksacks come in multiple sizes. Choosing the right capacity is crucial for your Asia trip. Rucksack sizes are typically given in liters (total volume).

When in doubt, carry-ons (around 40-45 liters) are often the best rucksacks for traveling, especially if staying in hotels, apartments, or hostels without needing bulky camping gear. You’ll enjoy a lighter load, greater freedom of movement, and a much smoother travel experience, particularly when navigating transport and crowded areas in Asia.

I used to think bigger was better, but a mid-sized rucksack is lighter, more comfortable, and prevents overpacking. A carry-on can also save significant money on luggage fees, which can add up on multi-country trips in Asia.

A smaller size, like 30L, is better for weekend trips, business travel, or if using the rucksack with rolling luggage.

55L+ is recommended only for very long journeys, particularly through different climates requiring varied gear. When choosing a rucksack for a trip through South America (which included cold Andes and hot Amazon), I used a 55L pack – a scenario sometimes applicable to diverse Asian regions.

Size Range	Suitability for Asia Travel
10-25L	Too small for a main travel rucksack. Suitable for daypacks or commuter bags within a city destination.
30L	An interesting mid-size for shorter trips in Asia, max 3-4 days usually. Possible for longer minimalist trips if you pack very light.
35-45L	A happy sweet spot! Perfect carry-on size for shorter trips or extensive multi-week/month journeys across Asia if packing light, especially in one climate.
50-65L	Good if you truly need extra space. Recommended for trekking with gear or longer-term travel requiring diverse clothing. A 40L + daypack is often more versatile.
70-120L	NOPE. Only for extreme trekking/camping expeditions. Overkill for general travel in Asia.

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