Imagine this: you’re standing at the airport, ready for your big adventure, but your backpack is either too big and bulky, or too small and stuffed to the brim. Sound familiar? Picking the perfect travel backpack can feel like a puzzle. You want something that fits all your essentials without being a pain to carry, and the 45L size seems like the sweet spot for many trips.
But with so many different backpacks out there, how do you know which one is the best for *you*? It’s easy to get lost in all the features, materials, and brands. You might worry about it being uncomfortable on your back, not having enough pockets, or not being durable enough for all your travels. These are real concerns that can make choosing a backpack feel overwhelming.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to break down exactly what makes a great 45L travel backpack. You’ll learn what to look for, what questions to ask yourself, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to choose a backpack that will be your trusty travel companion for years to come.
So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to finding your ideal 45L travel backpack!
Our Top 5 45L Travel Backpack Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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MATEIN 45L Travel Backpack | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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LOVEVOOK Carry on Backpack | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Gieury Carry On Backpack | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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Vancropak Carry On Backpack | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 45L Travel Backpack Detailed Reviews
1. MATEIN 45L Travel Backpack
Rating: 8.9/10
The MATEIN 45L Travel Backpack is a fantastic option for anyone who loves to travel, whether it’s for a quick weekend trip or a longer vacation. It’s designed for both men and women, and it’s packed with features to make your journey smoother. This backpack is also a great gift idea for the travelers in your life!
What We Like:
- Expandable and Large Capacity: This backpack is big! It measures 20*8.6*13.4 inches and can expand even more. You can fit packing cubes, clothes, and all your gear inside. It’s perfect for men, women, and anyone going on a weekend getaway or vacation. Plus, it meets airline carry-on rules.
- Convertible Design: You can switch how you carry it. The padded shoulder straps hide away, turning it into a briefcase style. There’s also a strap on the back to slide it onto your suitcase, making it super easy to move through airports or on cruises.
- Easy to Carry: It’s lightweight and comfortable. The adjustable shoulder straps and ventilated back panel keep you cool. Two padded handles on the top and side let you grab it easily from overhead bins.
- Built for Travel: It has smart pockets for your small items like your phone and earphones. Inside, there are straps to keep your belongings tidy. The sternum strap helps take the weight off your shoulders, and external straps keep things secure.
- Heavy-duty and Water Resistant: Made from tough, water-resistant polyester, this backpack can handle different weather. The zippers are strong and lockable, and the stitching is solid. It’s built to last for all your adventures.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the backpack is designed to be carry-on compliant, actual airline restrictions can vary, so it’s always a good idea to double-check with your specific airline before flying.
- The description mentions “lockable zipper heads,” but it doesn’t explicitly state if a lock is included. Travelers might need to purchase their own lock.
This MATEIN backpack is a reliable travel companion that offers plenty of space and smart features. It’s a practical choice for anyone looking for a durable and versatile travel bag.
2. LOVEVOOK Carry on Backpack
Rating: 8.5/10
The LOVEVOOK Carry on Backpack is a super-sized travel companion designed for both men and women. It’s built to handle everything from short weekend getaways to longer trips, making packing a breeze.
What We Like:
- This backpack expands from 35L to a huge 45+L, giving you plenty of room for 3-7 days of travel.
- It’s airline approved and fits most carry-on size regulations, so you can breeze through security.
- You get four handy packing cubes to keep your clothes, shoes, and toiletries super organized.
- There’s a special wet pocket for damp items, like a sweaty gym shirt or a wet towel.
- The backpack can be carried like a suitcase with its side handle, and it has a strap to slide onto your rolling luggage.
- Comfort is key with breathable, padded shoulder straps that help you carry it without shoulder strain.
- It’s made from tough, water-resistant canvas that can handle a bit of rough and tumble.
What Could Be Improved:
- The backpack is quite large, so you should think about if you really need that much space before buying.
- At about 4 lbs, it’s a bit on the heavier side for a carry-on, which might be a concern for some travelers.
This LOVEVOOK backpack is an excellent choice for travelers who need a lot of space and want to stay organized. It offers great features for a comfortable and stress-free travel experience.
3. Gieury Carry On Backpack
Rating: 8.9/10
Planning your next trip just got a whole lot easier with the Gieury Carry On Backpack. This versatile bag is designed to be your go-to travel companion, whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a longer adventure. It offers a ton of space and smart features to keep your belongings organized and accessible.
What We Like:
- The backpack expands to a huge 50L, perfect for packing everything you need for 3-5 days.
- It fits easily in airplane overhead bins and under seats.
- The special 180° laptop section lets you go through airport security quickly without taking your laptop out.
- It can switch from a backpack to a suitcase style, and has a strap to attach it to your rolling luggage.
- A separate bottom compartment keeps your shoes or dirty items away from your clean clothes.
- It has lots of pockets, including a padded one for a 17” laptop, making organization a breeze.
- The bag is made from water-repellent material with strong zippers and stitching for durability.
- A built-in USB port lets you charge your phone on the go (you’ll need your own power bank).
What Could Be Improved:
- The power bank for the USB port is not included.
This Gieury backpack is a fantastic option for travelers who want to pack more and worry less. Its thoughtful design makes getting through the airport and staying organized on your trip much simpler.
4. tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L
Rating: 9.2/10
The tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L is a great choice for travelers. It’s designed to be TSA friendly and flight approved, making airport security a breeze. This backpack is also water-resistant and lightweight, so you can travel comfortably and confidently. It’s perfect for business trips or weekend getaways.
What We Like:
- It has a large capacity and is well-organized with many pockets and compartments.
- You can easily access your belongings with the quick-access front pocket and suitcase-style opening.
- The laptop compartment opens 90°-180° for fast security checks.
- It meets most airline carry-on size requirements.
- It’s made from durable, recycled fabric, making it a sustainable choice.
- The backpack is very comfortable to wear, thanks to padded straps and back panel.
- It has multiple handles for flexible carrying options.
- A luggage pass-through strap makes it easy to attach to other bags.
What Could Be Improved:
- The actual usable capacity can vary slightly due to handmade variations.
- While water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof.
This tomtoc backpack offers excellent organization and comfort for travelers. It’s a durable and sustainable option that makes navigating airports much easier.
5. Vancropak Carry On Backpack
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet the Vancropak Carry On Backpack, a 45L expandable travel companion in a cool cyan color. This backpack is designed for both men and women, perfect for weekend trips, college, or business travel. It’s built to be flight-approved and water-resistant, keeping your belongings safe and dry.
What We Like:
- This backpack is expandable, giving you up to 45L of space. You can pack lots of things like clothes, makeup, and gear. It also has elastic bands inside to hold your clothes in place.
- It’s easy to carry in different ways. You can wear it as a backpack with hide-away straps, or use the two handle straps like a suitcase. It fits most overhead bins on airplanes.
- The backpack has four external straps to keep your stuff from moving around. This also helps the zippers last longer. A luggage belt on the back lets you slide it over a suitcase handle.
- It’s made from strong, water-resistant polyester to protect your things from rain. The zippers are sturdy, and the stitching is reinforced for long-lasting use.
- The back is designed to be comfortable and breathable with soft padding. This gives you good support. The shoulder straps are adjustable and breathable, making them easy on your shoulders.
- It has two lock heads, so you can secure your belongings and keep them safe from theft.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many carrying options, the hide-away shoulder straps might be a bit tricky to tuck away completely for some users.
- The “extra inch” gained from compression straps is minimal and may not significantly increase capacity.
This Vancropak backpack is a fantastic choice for travelers who need a versatile and spacious bag. Its thoughtful design and durable materials make it a reliable travel buddy for any adventure.
Your Guide to the Perfect 45L Travel Backpack
Choosing the right travel backpack makes a big difference on your adventures. A 45-liter backpack is a popular choice because it’s big enough for longer trips but not so big it’s hard to carry. This guide helps you find the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important things in mind:
- Comfortable Straps and Back Panel: Padded shoulder straps and a well-padded back panel are super important. They help spread the weight evenly so your shoulders and back don’t hurt. Look for straps that you can adjust easily.
- Good Organization: Lots of pockets and compartments help you keep your stuff neat. It’s good to have a main compartment for your bigger items, a separate pocket for your laptop, and smaller pockets for things like your phone, wallet, and snacks.
- Easy Access: Some backpacks open like a suitcase, which makes packing and finding things much easier. Others only open from the top. A suitcase-style opening is usually better for a 45L bag.
- Durability: You want a backpack that can handle being thrown around a bit. Strong zippers and tough fabric are signs of a good quality bag.
- Water Resistance: Many travel backpacks offer some protection from rain. This is important to keep your belongings dry.
- Carry-On Size: Most airlines allow 45L backpacks as carry-on luggage. Always check with your airline before you fly, though!
Important Materials
The material your backpack is made from affects how long it lasts and how well it protects your stuff.
- Nylon: This is a strong and lightweight material. It’s often used for travel backpacks because it resists tears and is pretty water-resistant. Ripstop nylon is even stronger because it has a special weave that stops small tears from getting bigger.
- Polyester: Another good choice, polyester is also durable and can handle wear and tear. It’s usually a bit less expensive than nylon.
- Waterproof Coatings: Many backpacks have a coating on the fabric to make them more water-resistant. This is a great feature for traveling in unpredictable weather.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a backpack better or worse.
- Sturdy Zippers: High-quality zippers that glide smoothly are a sign of good craftsmanship. Cheap zippers can break easily and ruin your trip.
- Reinforced Stitching: Look for strong stitching, especially on the straps and seams. This means the backpack is built to last.
- Good Padding: Ample padding on the shoulder straps and back panel makes a huge difference in comfort. A padded hip belt can also help distribute weight.
- Cheap Materials: If a backpack feels flimsy or uses thin, weak fabric, it probably won’t last long.
- Poorly Designed Pockets: If the pockets are too small, too few, or in awkward places, it makes organizing your gear difficult.
User Experience and Use Cases
A 45L backpack is a versatile travel companion. It’s perfect for:
- Weekend Getaways: Pack enough clothes and essentials for a couple of days.
- Short Business Trips: Carry your work essentials and a change of clothes.
- Adventure Travel: Fit hiking gear, camping supplies, or other adventure equipment.
- Carry-On Travel: Avoid checked bag fees and save time at the airport.
A good 45L backpack should feel comfortable even when full. It should be easy to access your items and keep them organized. The best ones are built tough and can handle the bumps and scrapes of travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of a 45L travel backpack?
A: A 45L backpack is a great size. It’s big enough for longer trips but usually small enough to be carried on an airplane.
Q: How important are padded straps on a travel backpack?
A: Padded straps are very important. They make the backpack comfortable to wear, especially when it’s full.
Q: What kind of material is best for a travel backpack?
A: Strong materials like nylon or polyester are best. They are durable and can resist water.
Q: Should I worry about zippers on my backpack?
A: Yes, you should. Good quality zippers are strong and easy to use. They help your backpack last longer.
Q: Can I use a 45L backpack as a carry-on?
A: Most of the time, yes. But it’s always a good idea to check with your airline first.
Q: How can I keep my belongings dry in a 45L backpack?
A: Look for backpacks made with water-resistant materials or coatings. Using a rain cover is also a good idea.
Q: What does “ripstop nylon” mean?
A: Ripstop nylon is a strong type of nylon fabric. It has a special pattern that stops small tears from spreading.
Q: Is it easy to organize things in a 45L backpack?
A: It can be, if the backpack has many pockets and compartments. Look for a bag with good organization features.
Q: What if my backpack is too heavy?
A: A good backpack will have adjustable straps and a padded back panel to help you carry the weight comfortably. A hip belt can also help.
Q: How do I know if a 45L backpack is good quality?
A: Look for strong stitching, durable zippers, and good quality fabric. Comfortable padding is also a sign of a well-made bag.
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.