Imagine this: You’re at the airport, ready for your next adventure, but your backpack feels way too big. Or maybe it’s too small and you can’t fit everything you need! Finding the perfect travel backpack can be a real puzzle, especially when you’re looking for a 28-liter size. It’s a popular choice because it’s not too big and not too small, but there are so many to choose from. You want one that’s comfy, holds all your stuff, and looks good, right?
Choosing a 28L travel backpack can be tough. You might worry about it being too heavy, not having enough pockets, or not fitting under the airplane seat. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the different styles and brands. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you solve this backpack mystery.
By reading on, you’ll learn what makes a great 28L travel backpack. We’ll talk about what features to look for and how to pick one that’s just right for you. Get ready to discover the backpack that will make your travels easier and more fun!
Our Top 5 28L Travel Backpack Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 28L Travel Backpack Detailed Reviews
1. tomtoc Travel Backpack 28L
Rating: 8.7/10
The tomtoc Travel Backpack 28L is your ideal travel companion for short trips and business adventures. This carry-on bag is designed to make your journey smooth and organized. It’s water-resistant and lightweight, making it easy to carry all your essentials.
What We Like:
- The 28L capacity is just right for short trips. It packs down well when you don’t need it full.
- It’s TSA friendly! The laptop compartment opens flat, so you don’t have to take your laptop out at security.
- The bag meets most airline carry-on size rules.
- You can pack like you’re using a suitcase with its clamshell main compartment.
- It has a special spot for your 16-inch laptop and a 13-inch iPad.
- Quick-access pockets keep your small items handy.
- Side pockets hold your water bottle or travel liquids.
- The backpack is lightweight but strong, made with good polyester fabric and YKK zippers.
- It’s comfortable to wear with padded straps and a padded back.
- A chest buckle helps distribute weight evenly.
- It has a strap to slide over your suitcase handle, making it easy to roll through the airport.
What Could Be Improved:
- For longer trips, you might need a bit more space.
- While it’s water-resistant, it might not withstand heavy rain for long periods.
This tomtoc backpack is a smart choice for any traveler who values organization and ease. It makes getting through the airport and staying organized on the go simple.
2. Lnvimars 28L Travel Backpack for Men Laptop Backpack Women
Rating: 9.5/10
The Lnvimars 28L Travel Backpack is a versatile and practical choice for anyone needing a reliable bag for travel, work, or school. It’s designed to be lightweight yet durable, fitting airline carry-on requirements, making airport security a breeze. This backpack offers plenty of space and smart organization for all your essentials.
What We Like:
- It’s made from strong, high-quality polyester fiber, so it can handle daily use and city adventures.
- The backpack’s size (20”*12.6”*7”) is perfect for airline carry-on, saving you time at the airport.
- It has a large main pocket, side pockets, a special laptop compartment for up to a 15.6-inch laptop, and an organized front pocket, keeping your items neat.
- Built-in elastic bands in the main pocket keep your clothes from shifting.
- Side elastic net pockets are handy for water bottles or umbrellas.
- A separate shoe compartment lets you bring an extra pair of shoes for different activities.
- The wet pocket is made of waterproof material, perfect for damp items after a workout or a rainy day.
- The airflow back design and padded shoulder straps offer great comfort and support, even when carrying it for a long time.
- It’s suitable for many uses, like everyday commuting, college, business trips, gym, or hiking.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for a 15.6-inch laptop, checking exact dimensions is always wise for specific models.
- The term “premium backpack” suggests a higher price point, which might be a consideration for some buyers.
This Lnvimars backpack is a solid option for anyone seeking a functional and comfortable bag for various needs. Its thoughtful design and durable construction make it a great travel companion.
3. Cotopaxi Allpa 28l Travel Pack
Rating: 8.6/10
The Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack in Blue Spruce/Abyss is a fantastic companion for any adventure, big or small. Its smart design makes packing and accessing your gear a breeze, and it looks great too!
What We Like:
- The suitcase-style opening lets you see everything at once. No more digging!
- It has lots of pockets inside to keep your stuff organized. There’s a big one, a medium one, and a small one.
- Your water bottle fits perfectly in the stretchy mesh pocket. It can hold up to a 1-liter bottle.
- There’s a handy front pocket for your keys and smaller items. It even has a clip for your keys so they don’t get lost.
- You can carry it comfortably with its three different handles: on the side, top, and bottom.
- Your laptop is safe in its padded, fleece-lined sleeve. It fits a 15-inch laptop.
- The waist belt can be tucked away when you don’t need it. This makes it more comfortable for everyday use.
- It has a strap on the back to slide over your roller bag handle, making travel easier.
- You can attach extra gear to the four loops on the outside.
- The main zippers can be locked for added security.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has good organization, sometimes a few more small internal pockets would be nice for tiny things.
- The 28L size might be a bit small for very long trips where you need to pack a lot.
This pack is a winner for travelers who value smart organization and a comfortable carry. It’s a great choice for weekend trips and daily commutes.
4. ECOHUB Travel Backpack 18x14x8 Spirit Airlines Personal Item Bag Carry On Backpack 13 Pockets Large Work Casual Daypack for men Airline Approved Waterproof Gym Backpack with Charging Port
Rating: 8.6/10
The ECOHUB Travel Backpack is designed to make your travels smoother and more affordable. This backpack is perfectly sized to fit as a personal item on Spirit Airlines and many other major carriers, helping you avoid extra baggage fees. Its thoughtful design offers plenty of space and organization for all your essentials, whether you’re heading to work, the gym, or on a weekend getaway.
What We Like:
- Avoids Baggage Fees: It’s the perfect size (18×13.7×7.8 inches) for Spirit Airlines and others, so you won’t pay extra to bring it on the plane.
- Opens Like a Suitcase: The main part opens wide, making it super easy to pack your clothes and shoes.
- Lots of Pockets: With 13 pockets, you can keep everything neat. There’s a special spot for your keys, a pocket for your tablet, and even a hidden one for valuables.
- Built-in Charger: The USB charging port lets you power up your phone on the go.
- Comfortable to Carry: Padded shoulder straps make it comfy, even when it’s full.
- Eco-Friendly: It’s made from recycled plastic bottles, which is great for the planet.
- Durable and Water-Resistant: Strong zippers and tough fabric keep your stuff safe and dry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Patent Pending Status: While it’s a unique design, the “patent pending” status might mean it’s not widely available yet.
This ECOHUB backpack is a smart choice for travelers who want to save money and stay organized. It’s a practical and sustainable option for your next adventure.
5. BAGSMART Travel Backpack Carry on Flight Approved
Rating: 9.5/10
Meet the BAGSMART Travel Backpack, your new favorite travel buddy! This backpack is designed for easy travel. It’s lightweight and fits under airplane seats. It can hold a 17.3-inch laptop and has lots of pockets to keep your things neat. Plus, it has a USB charging port so you can charge your phone on the go. It’s perfect for men and women who travel a lot.
What We Like:
- It’s super spacious and organized with a special padded spot for laptops up to 17.3 inches.
- You can pack and unpack quickly with its 180° wide opening.
- It’s airline-approved as a personal item, so it fits on planes easily.
- The padded shoulder straps and breathable back make it comfortable to wear.
- It has a handy USB charging port and a data cable hole.
- The water-resistant material keeps your stuff safe and dry.
- It looks stylish with a fashionable patchwork leather detail.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s lightweight, for very heavy loads, the padding on the straps could be a bit thicker.
- The 28L capacity is good for a personal item, but might not be enough for longer trips where you need to pack a lot.
This BAGSMART backpack makes traveling simple and stylish. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to stay organized and comfortable on their adventures.
Choosing Your Perfect 28L Travel Backpack: A Smart Shopper’s Guide
A 28L travel backpack is a fantastic size for many trips. It’s big enough to hold your essentials but small enough to carry comfortably. This guide will help you find the best one for your adventures.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a 28L travel backpack, keep these important features in mind:
Comfort is King
- Padded Shoulder Straps: Look for straps that are thick and soft. They make carrying the backpack much easier, especially on long walks.
- Adjustable Straps: You should be able to make the straps longer or shorter. This helps the backpack fit your body perfectly.
- Back Panel Padding: A padded back panel adds extra comfort. It also helps air flow so your back doesn’t get too sweaty.
- Sternum Strap: This strap goes across your chest. It helps distribute the weight and keeps the backpack from sliding off your shoulders.
- Hip Belt: Some larger backpacks have a hip belt. This transfers weight from your shoulders to your hips, making it easier to carry.
Smart Organization
- Multiple Compartments: More pockets mean better organization. You can keep your clothes separate from your electronics and snacks.
- Laptop Sleeve: If you travel with a laptop, a padded sleeve is a must. It keeps your device safe from bumps.
- Water Bottle Pockets: Easy access to your water is important. Side pockets are great for this.
- Quick-Access Pockets: Small pockets on the outside are useful for things you need often, like your phone or keys.
Durability and Protection
- Strong Zippers: Zippers are used a lot. Make sure they feel sturdy and smooth.
- Water Resistance: A water-resistant backpack protects your belongings from light rain.
- Reinforced Bottom: The bottom of the backpack often takes a beating. A reinforced bottom adds extra strength.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a backpack affect how long it lasts and how well it protects your things.
- Nylon: This is a very common and strong material. It’s also lightweight and water-resistant. Look for high-denier nylon (like 400D or 600D) for more durability.
- Polyester: Another good choice, polyester is also strong and can resist wear and tear. It’s often a bit cheaper than nylon.
- Ripstop: This is a special weave that makes fabric stronger. If a small tear happens, ripstop fabric stops it from spreading.
- Waterproof Coatings: Some backpacks have a special coating on the inside or outside to make them even more waterproof.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good design and construction make a backpack great. Poor choices can make it frustrating to use.
What Makes a Backpack Better:
- Well-Stitched Seams: Strong stitching means the backpack won’t fall apart easily.
- Ergonomic Design: This means the backpack is shaped to fit your body comfortably.
- Lightweight Construction: A lighter backpack is easier to carry.
- Thoughtful Pocket Placement: Pockets that are easy to reach and use are a big plus.
What Can Make a Backpack Worse:
- Flimsy Zippers: Cheap zippers can break or get stuck, making it hard to open and close your bag.
- Thin, Unpadded Straps: These can dig into your shoulders and cause pain.
- Lack of Organization: If everything is just in one big space, it’s hard to find what you need.
- Heavy Materials: Using very heavy fabric can make the backpack itself too heavy before you even pack it.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A 28L backpack is super versatile. It works for many different kinds of trips.
Who Uses a 28L Backpack and Why?
- Weekend Travelers: It’s the perfect size for a 2-3 day trip. You can fit clothes, toiletries, and a book.
- Day Hikers: For longer hikes, you can pack water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and an extra layer of clothing.
- Commuters: If you carry a laptop, lunch, and other work essentials, a 28L backpack can be a comfortable and stylish option.
- Carry-On Travelers: Many 28L backpacks fit the carry-on size limits for most airlines. This saves you time at the airport.
Think about how you’ll use the backpack most. This will help you choose the features that matter most to you. A good 28L backpack will make your travels easier and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 28L Travel Backpacks
Q: What is the main advantage of a 28L backpack?
A: The main advantage is its size. It’s big enough for essentials but not too big to carry easily. It’s great for short trips or as a carry-on.
Q: How much can a 28L backpack actually hold?
A: A 28L backpack can hold about 28 liters of stuff. This is enough for a few days of clothes, toiletries, and maybe a few extras like a book or camera.
Q: Is a 28L backpack good for international travel?
A: Yes, a 28L backpack is often a good size for international travel as it usually fits airline carry-on restrictions.
Q: What kind of trips is a 28L backpack best for?
A: It’s best for weekend trips, short business trips, day hikes, or as a personal item on flights.
Q: Should I look for water-resistant or waterproof material?
A: Water-resistant material will protect your things from light rain. Waterproof material offers more protection from heavy rain or if the bag gets soaked.
Q: How important is padding on a travel backpack?
A: Padding is very important for comfort. Padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel make carrying the backpack much easier and prevent discomfort.
Q: Can I fit a laptop in a 28L travel backpack?
A: Many 28L backpacks have a special padded sleeve for laptops. Check the backpack’s description to see if it has this feature.
Q: What are “ripstop” fabrics?
A: Ripstop fabrics are woven in a special way to prevent tears from spreading. This makes the backpack more durable.
Q: How do I know if a backpack is good quality?
A: Look for strong zippers, well-stitched seams, durable materials like good quality nylon, and comfortable padding.
Q: Is a 28L backpack too small for a week-long trip?
A: For most people, a 28L backpack is too small for a week-long trip. It’s usually better suited for trips of 2-3 days.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.