Dreaming of far-off lands but worried about your wallet? We get it! The thrill of adventure shouldn’t break the bank. But when it comes to packing for your next journey, finding a travel backpack that’s both affordable and reliable can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You want something that can hold all your gear, feel comfortable on your back, and not fall apart after just one trip, all without costing a fortune.
It’s tough to know what’s truly a good deal and what’s just cheap. You might worry about flimsy zippers, straps that dig in, or a bag that’s just too small (or too big!). This is where we come in! We’re here to help you navigate the world of budget-friendly backpacks so you can spend less time stressing about gear and more time planning your amazing trips.
In this post, we’ll show you exactly what to look for in a great cheap travel backpack. We’ll share tips on finding the best value and highlight some fantastic options that won’t empty your savings. Get ready to discover a backpack that will be your trusty travel companion for many adventures to come!
Our Top 5 Cheap Travel Backpack Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cheap Travel Backpack Detailed Reviews
1. HOTOR Travel Backpack – Flight Approved Travel Bag for Men and Women
Rating: 9.4/10
The HOTOR Travel Backpack is a fantastic carry-on bag designed for both men and women. It’s perfect for work, business trips, weekend getaways, and college. This black backpack measures 11.8″ x 7.9″ x 17.3″ and can hold a 15.6″ laptop and all your travel essentials.
What We Like:
- The backpack opens like a suitcase, making it super easy to pack and organize your clothes and gadgets. It’s great for 3-5 day trips!
- It’s made from high-quality Oxford fabric that keeps your stuff safe from water, stains, and scratches. The special zippers are also dust-proof and built to last.
- You’ll find a pocket for everything! There’s a padded spot for your laptop, a special pocket for wet items, a handy outer pocket for small things, and side pockets for your water bottle or umbrella.
- This backpack is approved for flights and fits easily in overhead bins or under your seat. It’s lightweight at just 1.2lb and has comfy padded straps and a breathable back panel. The luggage strap also lets you attach it to your suitcase.
- It’s perfect for all sorts of occasions, from business trips and school to outdoor adventures. It’s a stylish and reliable choice for anyone who travels or needs a great everyday backpack.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the backpack is designed for organization, some users might wish for even more specialized compartments for very small electronics or specific accessories.
- The “premium quality” might suggest a higher price point, and while the value is good, it’s worth noting that more budget-friendly options exist with fewer features.
This HOTOR travel backpack offers a lot of smart features for travelers. It makes packing and staying organized simple and comfortable.
2. MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack
Rating: 8.8/10
The MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack in Grey is designed for both work and travel. It’s a slim, sturdy backpack that can hold your laptop and all your essentials. It even has a USB charging port to keep your devices powered up on the go.
What We Like:
- It has lots of space for your laptop and other items. The laptop compartment fits most 15.6-inch laptops.
- It’s comfortable to wear with padded straps and a padded back.
- The backpack has a hidden pocket to keep your valuables safe from thieves.
- You can easily charge your phone with the built-in USB port.
- It’s made of strong, water-resistant material to keep your things dry.
- A luggage strap makes it easy to slide onto your suitcase when traveling.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB charging port needs your own power bank to work.
This backpack is a great choice for students, travelers, and anyone who needs a reliable way to carry their tech. It’s a practical gift for both men and women.
3. Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women
Rating: 8.5/10
The Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women is a versatile and stylish carry-on designed for the modern traveler. In a lovely shade of pink, this backpack is perfect for everything from weekend getaways and business trips to daily commutes and college classes. It’s built to make your journeys smoother and more organized.
What We Like:
- The built-in USB charging port lets you power up your devices on the go, so you’re never caught with a dead phone. Just remember to bring your own power bank!
- It has a roomy capacity with three main compartments and nine extra pockets, keeping all your essentials neatly organized and easy to find.
- The dedicated laptop compartment safely holds a 15.6-inch laptop and a 12.9-inch iPad.
- This backpack is flight-approved, fitting under the seat or in the overhead bin, and its 180-degree zipper helps you get through security quickly.
- You can easily switch between carrying it as a backpack with its comfortable padded straps or as a handbag with its two padded handles.
- It’s water-resistant, protecting your belongings from light rain.
- A handy shoe pouch keeps your footwear separate from your other items.
- It also features a water bottle pocket that fits a Stanley 30 oz cup.
What Could Be Improved:
- The backpack does not come with a power bank, so you’ll need to purchase one separately.
- While it’s water-resistant, it might not be suitable for heavy downpours.
This Taygeer backpack offers a fantastic combination of style, functionality, and convenience for any woman on the move. It’s an excellent companion for all your adventures.
4. Tenot Travel Backpack for Women Men Carry on Flight Approved Lightweight 15.6 Inch Laptop Backpack Duffle College Business Work Weekender Hiking Travel Essentials Suitcase Backpack Black
Rating: 8.8/10
The Tenot Travel Backpack is a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a versatile and reliable bag for their adventures. Whether you’re a student, a business traveler, a hiker, or just heading out for a weekend getaway, this backpack is designed to make your journey easier and more comfortable. Its smart design and durable construction mean it can handle whatever you throw at it.
What We Like:
- It’s carry-on flight approved, so you won’t have to check it.
- It opens 180 degrees for quick security checks.
- The backpack is lightweight and made of waterproof material to keep your stuff dry.
- It can fit most 15.6-inch laptops and has comfortable straps.
- The many compartments help you stay organized.
- It looks stylish and is easy to clean.
- The stitching is strong, and the design is thoughtful for long-term use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it comes in two sizes, some might wish for more size options.
- The “personal item” designation for the 17-inch might vary by airline.
This backpack offers great value and functionality for all your travel needs. It’s a smart investment for anyone on the go.
5. MIYCOO Backpack – Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping
Rating: 8.7/10
The MIYCOO Backpack is an incredibly versatile and lightweight companion for all your adventures. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just need an extra bag for your travels, this backpack folds up small and is ready to go when you are.
What We Like:
- It’s super light, almost as light as half a phone!
- It folds down really small, so it fits in your pocket or suitcase easily.
- The backpack is made of waterproof material, so it can handle splashes and light rain.
- It has strong zippers and reinforced spots, making it tough for everyday use.
- The 45L size is big enough for lots of stuff, and it has three main sections, including a special wet pocket.
- A survival whistle is included on the strap, which is smart for outdoor emergencies.
- It’s perfect for when you buy extra souvenirs on your trip.
What Could Be Improved:
- The IPX4 waterproof rating is good for splashes, but it might not be enough for heavy rain.
- While durable for daily use, extreme adventures might require a more rugged pack.
This MIYCOO backpack is a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a reliable, packable bag. It’s a great value for its features and convenience.
Your Guide to the Best Cheap Travel Backpack
Finding a great travel backpack doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. You can find awesome backpacks that are affordable and still work really well for your trips. This guide helps you pick the perfect one.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping for a cheap travel backpack, keep these important things in mind:
- Size and Capacity: Backpacks are measured in liters. A 30-40 liter backpack is good for weekend trips. For longer trips, you might need 50-60 liters. Think about how much stuff you usually pack.
- Comfortable Straps: Padded shoulder straps make a big difference. Look for straps that you can adjust. A padded hip belt helps too. It moves some weight from your shoulders to your hips.
- Good Organization: Pockets and compartments help you keep your things tidy. Some backpacks have special spots for laptops or water bottles.
- Durability: Even cheap backpacks should be strong. Check the zippers and stitching.
- Easy Access: Some backpacks open like a suitcase. This makes it easy to get to your things without digging.
What Materials Make a Good Backpack?
The material of your backpack affects how long it lasts and how it handles different weather.
- Nylon: This is a popular choice. It’s strong and resists water. Ripstop nylon is even better because it has a special pattern that stops tears from spreading.
- Polyester: This is another common material. It’s also durable and good at resisting water.
- Water-Resistant Coatings: Many backpacks have a coating that helps keep rain out. This is a great feature.
What Makes a Backpack Great (or Not So Great)?
A few things can make a backpack better or worse.
- Good Stitching: Strong stitching means the seams won’t come apart easily.
- Sturdy Zippers: Zippers should glide smoothly. They shouldn’t get stuck.
- Extra Padding: Padding on the back panel and straps makes carrying the backpack more comfortable.
- Poor Quality Zippers: Cheap, flimsy zippers can break.
- Thin Material: Backpacks made with very thin fabric might not last long.
- Lack of Support: If a backpack has no padding or a weak frame, it can be uncomfortable to wear, especially when it’s full.
How You’ll Use It: User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to travel.
- Weekend Getaways: A smaller backpack (30-40 liters) is perfect for short trips. You can fit clothes, toiletries, and a few extras.
- Backpacking Adventures: For longer travels, you need a bigger backpack (50-60 liters). It needs to hold more clothes, gear, and maybe even a sleeping bag.
- Day Trips: A smaller, simpler backpack works well for exploring a city for a day. It can carry snacks, a water bottle, and a camera.
- Carry-On Travel: Many airlines have size limits for carry-on bags. A backpack that fits these limits saves you time and money at the airport.
A good cheap travel backpack makes your journey easier. It keeps your belongings safe and comfortable to carry. Look for the features that matter most to you, and you’ll find a backpack that’s a great travel buddy without emptying your wallet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best size for a cheap travel backpack?
A: The best size depends on how long you travel. For short trips, 30-40 liters is good. For longer trips, 50-60 liters is better.
Q: Are cheap backpacks comfortable?
A: Some cheap backpacks are very comfortable. Look for padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel.
Q: What material is best for a travel backpack?
A: Nylon and polyester are good choices. They are strong and water-resistant.
Q: How important are zippers on a backpack?
A: Zippers are very important. They need to be sturdy and work smoothly so your things stay inside.
Q: Can a cheap backpack be good for airplane travel?
A: Yes, many cheap backpacks are designed to be carry-on size. Always check the airline’s size limits.
Q: Should I worry about water resistance?
A: Yes, water resistance is helpful. It protects your belongings from rain or spills.
Q: How can I tell if a backpack is durable?
A: Check the stitching and zippers. Strong stitching and good quality zippers mean the backpack will last longer.
Q: What does “capacity in liters” mean?
A: Liters measure how much space is inside the backpack. A bigger number means more space.
Q: Is it worth buying a cheap travel backpack?
A: Yes, you can find great cheap backpacks that are durable and comfortable for many trips.
Q: How do I organize my things in a cheap backpack?
A: Look for backpacks with multiple pockets and compartments. Packing cubes can also help.
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.