Ever stared at a wall of backpacks, feeling totally lost? Choosing the perfect 40L backpack can feel like a puzzle. You need something big enough for your adventures but small enough to carry easily. It’s a balancing act, right?
Finding that sweet spot is key. Too small, and you leave important gear behind. Too big, and you’re lugging extra weight up mountains or through busy airports. Many travelers and hikers face this exact problem. They want versatility without the bulk.
But don’t worry! This guide breaks down everything you need to know about 40L backpacks. We will explore what makes a great one and help you avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident picking the ideal pack for your next trip.
Top 40L Backpack Recommendations
No. 1
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Friendly Flight Approved Carry-on Luggage Hand Water-resistant Lightweight Business Rucksack, Durable Large Weekender Bag Daypack Fits 17.3 Inch Laptop, PFAS Free
- Large Capacity & Organized: This Navigator-T66 carry-on backpack provides ample space for all your travel essentials. It features a large main compartment with a separate laptop compartment, and several other pockets and compartments for organization. Dimensions: 20.47 x 12.99 x 9 inch (52 x 33 x 23 cm). Depending on the packing methods and contents, the actual usable capacity ranges between 38-40L (handmade, slight variations in size & weight)
- Convenient Storage: You can reach the main compartment from the quick access front pocket for easy reach of your travel essentials on the go, and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking; The tech compartment can accommodate up to 17" laptop and 13 inch iPad with accessories; Front pocket, top pocket and side pockets for easy access to glasses, documents and travel liquids, etc.
- TSA Friendly & Flight Approved: The laptop compartment is friendly designed to be opened 90°-180° for security scanning, helps get through airport security checkpoints quickly and easy; And the dimension meets most international airlines' carry-on size requirements, making it the perfect companion for air travel, it's ideal for airplane traveling
- Built to Last and Sustainable: Made of premium quality YKK zippers and durable recycled fabric—that is 100% post-consumer material made from PET plastic bottles, which is sustainable and can also reduce energy consumption and pollution; Keep traveling with the best recycled fabric! The results might surprise you
- Ultra-comfortable & Easy Carry: 3D padded back panel and contoured thick shoulder straps for superior ergonomic comfort. An adjustable chest buckle help transfer weight off your shoulders, keeping you relaxed and cozy all the time; Two handles, one on top and one on the side provide flexible carrying experience. A strap on the back for luggage pass-through for convenient carry
No. 2
Maelstrom Hiking Backpack,Camping Backpack,40L Waterproof Hiking Daypack with Rain Cover,Lightweight Travel Backpack,Blue
- High-Quality Material:Hiking backpack is made of high quality rip-stop 210d nylon fabric,which is water resistant,tear resistant,anti-scratch and wear resistant. Furthermore,we also give away a rain cover with a clear silver reflective logo. It is putted in the little pocket under the backpack. So it is no doubt that all your things will keep dry during rain. Just take this outdoor backpack,no matter the weather.
- Ergonomic and Comfortable Design:Thicker padded back with ergonomic breathable design paired with adjustable, breathable and padded shoulder help to reduce fatigue during a long day of hiking. The hiking daypack comes with an ergonomic ring handle,which is labor-saving and durable. The adjustable chest buckle works perfectly to distribute the pack’s weight and keep it steady and centered. And chest buckle designed as a survival whistle for quick and easy use in case of emergency.
- Large Capacity & Multi Compartment: Maelstrom Hiking Daypack provides several pockets for handy storage and convenient organization. Spacious backpack packed with roomy zipper main compartment, 1 top pocket, 3 front zipper pocket, 2 waist zipper pockets and 2 mesh side pockets.In addition,one waterproof wet pocket is added to the main compartment to better separate sweaty clothes or other personal things after swimming or taking exercise.
- Unique Function Design:The camping backpack is printed with reflective signs to remind safety. The sides of the backpack have elastic and fasteners that can hold two sets of trekking sticks or adjust the webbing according to needs. There is a headphone hole on the top of the backpack for you to enjoy music. There is a Velcro to fix the water bag liner in the main bag and a water pipe hole on the top side of the backpack to assemble the water bag system.
- LIGHTWEIGHT -- Easy to carry:The 40L hiking backpack is lightweight and it’s breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help to relieve the stress from your shoulder. The large capacity of 40L provides enough space for outdoor travel,camping,hiking and fishing. It meet size requirements for most airlines. This camping backpack can be used as hiking backpack, travel bags and business bag,which is suitable for men and women.
No. 3
The North Face Router Everyday Laptop Backpack - Daypack, Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, Reflective Details, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size
- GO-TO CLASSIC: The Router, our largest lifestyle daypack, has a 40-liter capacity, a non-PFC water-repellent finish, and can fit laptops up to 14". It also has a sought-after endorsement from the American Chiropractic Association.
- CHIROPRACTOR APPROVED: The updated FlexVent suspension system has articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel, stitch lines for comfort and soft-touch chemise fabric, all certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
- SMART ORGANIZATION: This pack has a large main compartment for books and binders, a front compartment with internal, secure-zip organization, padded tablet sleeve, an external fleece-lined pocket and durable water bottle pockets that fit most 1L bottles.
- COMFORTABLE CARRY: For everyday, work or travel, this backpack has a top handle for easy grabbing and a removable waist belt for a custom fit. A sternum strap adds extra support, while a whistle buckle and reflective details improve safety and visibility.
- TECH SPECS: Dimensions: 12.5" x 9" x 21" (31.8 cm x 22.9 cm x 53.3 cm); Laptop Sleeve: 14.75" x 12"; Tablet Sleeve: 11.6”x10.8” (Fits most 11" tablets); Avg Weight: 2lbs 15oz; Volume: 40 Liters. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
No. 4
MATEIN Carry on Backpack, Extra Large Travel Backpack Expandable Airplane Approved Weekender Bag for Men and Women, Water Resistant Lightweight Daypack for Flight 40L, Black
- Expandable & Large Capacity: This extra large travel backpack with expandable feature offers you more packing capacity. Unzipping to get 45L storage then can easily hold packing cubes, make-up bag, outfits, camera bag and gear, etc. It fits overhead bin while on state of standard carry on size, is suitable for men, women, weekend traveler, or occasional vacationer. This versatile luggage backpack also meets airline carry-on requirements for airlines such as Easy Jet, Spirit, Jet Blue
- Convertible Design: Dimensions 19*13*8inch, Lightweight 1Kg(2.2lb) The carry on backpack is designed with hideaway padded shoulder straps which can be easily stored away in zippered back panel, transforming this vacation backpack from carry-on duffle to briefcase style and provide you a more flexible carrying experience. A luggage strap on the back is designed to fit on luggage/suitcase, for easier carry on international travel or cruise
- Easy to Carry: The luggage backpack is light to carry due to its adjustable shoulder straps, comfortable air-mesh ventilated back panel. 2 padded grab handles are set on the top and the side of the travel backpack, making it easily to take the bag from an overhead bin. The gift choice for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas, New Year, Valentine's Day, also available as travelers gifts
- Built for Travel: Front compartment is for little gear such as phone, earphone. The large inside pocket has internal compression elastic straps. The padded straps include a sternum strap that can be adjusted upward or downward, set to go across your chest, relieving the weight from your shoulder. 4 external compression straps keep contents from sloshing around and can get an inch or 2 more of vertical space also reduced stress on the zippers
- Heavy-duty: This large travel backpack is made of water resistant lightweight polyester with lockable zipper heads. Could be survived in different temperatures. With sturdy zippers and decent stitching, this backpack won't show any defects when on the go, ensuring you an unforgettable weekend getaway. Does your partner like to travel? It's also a practical Christmas and New Years gift for your parents, traveler
No. 5
Maelstrom Tactical Backpack for Men, Water Resistant 40L Military Backpack, for Hiking, Camping, Gym with Molle System (Black)
- Spacious and Organized Storage: Large capacity tactical backpack measures approximately 12.6"x 22"x 8.7" (W*H*D), capacity: 40L. The military backpack is equipped with multiple independent functional dividers and pockets, which can effectively store and categorize different tactical gear, such as laptop, tools, first aid kits and so on. Suitable for outdoor adventure, traveling, military, and even daily commuting, meets a variety of needs.
- Durable and Waterproof: Military grade backpack is made of 900D polyester material, all stress points of the molle backpack are reinforced and double stitched. It has excellent tear resistance and waterproof performance, adapting to use in harsh environments, ensuring the safety of your belongings and not easy to be damaged, enhancing the service life.
- Comfortable and Ergonomic Design: hunting backpack with ergonomic shoulder straps and back support system, weight compression strap system on both sides and bottom to adjust and tighten the pack. Provides excellent comfort and support
- Modular Scalability: backpack for men features a double-layer fabric laser-cut MOLLE mounting system on the front that allows you to mount a variety of tactical pouches that can be combined with other gear. Top straps allow you to roll up a sweatshirt or thin jacket. Side straps and buckles allow for large water bottles or trekking poles, and the bottom strap can be used to secure a tripod or sleeping pad
- Multi-Purpose Use: Tactical Assault Backpack can be used as a 3-day assault backpack, shooting bag, hunting backpack, survival backpack, camping backpack, hiking backpack men, gym backpack for men，fishing backpack,work backpack,travel backpack, or laptop bag.
No. 6
SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port, College High School Backpack Airline Approved Business Work Bag Fits 17 Inch Computer for Men Women
- AFTER SALES SERVICE : We solemnly promise that within one year of receiving this product, if any quality defects occur during normal use, you only need to take a photo of the defective product and contact us. We will reply with a solution to the problem within 24 hours, or send you a new identical product for free to replace the defective product
- LARGE CAPACITY AND ORGANIZED: men travel backpack owns 20 independent pockets for storing large items and organizing small items. 3 spacious main multi compartments with many hidden pockets can accommodate lots of stuffs like college supplies, travel accessories, clothes, stationery, notebook, cord organizer, side deep Zipper pocket for Easy access essentials, side Elastic net pockets conveniently hold travel gear umbrellas or water bottles
- CONVENIENT AND MULTIPURPOSE: The external USB port with built-in charging cable provides convenience for charging phone. There is a password lock device to protect the security of the computer, and the backpack is equipped with a sturdy handle. Unfold the oversize backpack freely by 90-180 degrees, designed specifically for airplane travel. A large backpack is perfect for indoor/outdoor activities. A large laptop university bag that you can use anywhere for travel, camping, hiking, and trip
- COMFORTABLES: A technology backpack with a U-shaped three-dimensional ventilation design on the back, comfortable wide breathable mesh shoulder straps, and ample sponge pads help relieve shoulder pressure. The shoulder straps on both sides are designed with hanging ropes, which can be used to hang small pendants such as sunglasses. Men's premium backpack, women's computer backpack. This is an ideal gift for men, women, or back to graduation
- EXTRA LARGE AND LONG-LASTING USE MATERIAL:Size of extra large backpack: 19.5x15x11 (inches), Capacity: 50L, the separate padded laptop compartment can accommodate 13 inch MacBook, 14, 15, 15.6 inch, and 17 inch laptop backpacks/computers, suitable for adults, women, men, and teachers. Laptop backpack made of high-quality polyester fiber material, Heavy duty large notebook backpacks suitable for cities(This item is not intended for use by people 12 years old and under)
No. 7
LOVEVOOK 40L Large Travel Backpack for Women Men, 17 Inch Carry on Backpack for Traveling on Airplane, Personal Item Bag Airline Approved, Business Causal Weekender Backpack, Black-Brown
- 🧳【40L LARGE CAPACITY】Our travel backpacks enable you to pack all your travel essentials for a 3-5 day travel, which can hold 3-5 days' clothing, a pair of shoes, your wallets, toiletries, a 17.3'' laptop, a 12.9'' iPad and so on. The side straps can also help you compress the pack when it is too full.
- ✈️【BACKPACK FOR TRAVELING ON AIRPLANES】With an 18*14*8 inches size, this travel backpack meets the standard of personal item bags of airlines. It can be put on the luggage set and under the seat easily. The luggage strap on the back of the backpack allows it to be stably attached to a suitcase.
- 👔【WELL-DESIGNED COMPARTMENTS】This travel backpack has 4 main compartments and 3 packing cubes supplied, which enable you to keep your things in order. Your shoes, toiletries, and underwear can be placed in separate packing cubes. There is also a side pocket for bottles and umbrellas. A separate dry and wet compartment allows you to store wet towels and toiletries.
- 💯【DURABLE AND COMFORTABLE】 Made of waterproof and strengthed polyester, it can meet requirements for durability. We have specially reinforced the shoulder straps and zippers to ensure that it does not go wrong while in use. Padded shoulder straps and side handles make it easy to carry.
- 👍【PRACTICAL BOX STRUCTURE DESIGN】 The carry-on backpack can be expanded 180° with a box structure, more convenient for you to pack things up. The dedicated electronic product compartment on the back can be used to store your electronics, which can be quickly taken out when going through the security check.
No. 8
Sinaliy Large Travel Backpack for Women Men, Expandable 40L Carry On Backpack, 17 Inch Laptop Backpack College Bookbag, Waterproof Travel bag as Person Item Flight Approved
- EXPANDABLE & LARGE CAPACITY: This extra-large travel backpack with an expandable design gives you more packing room (Size: 17.32*12.2*6.7+1.57inch). Unzip it to get 40L of storage, easily fitting packing cubes, makeup bags, outfits, camera gear, and more. It’s ideal for men, women, weekend travelers, or anyone taking an occasional vacation, and it meets airline personal-item requirements too.
- LOTS OF POCKETS & LAPTOP COMPARTMENT: The Sinaliy travel backpack for men and women has a spacious laptop compartment with thick cushioning to protect your laptop well. It offers ample storage with multiple hidden pockets, plus two toiletry bags for your hair and bath products.
- WITH LUGGAGE BELT & ANTI-THEFT POCKET: The luggage belt on the back lets business travelers slide this travel backpack right onto their suitcase for easier carrying. A hidden anti-theft pocket on the lower back keeps your valuables like wallet, passport, and ID card safe from thieves when you’re traveling or waiting in line.
- -LONG USING LIFE: Made of lightweight, water-resistant polyester and anti-scratch material, this Sinaliy men's travel backpack keeps your stuff dry in light rain, while still being breathable and good at heat dissipation. Sturdy zippers and solid stitching mean this personal item backpack won’t wear out on your trips, making sure your weekend getaways are hassle-free.
- - CONVERTIBLE DESIGN: The carry-on backpack has hideaway padded shoulder straps that can be stored in the zippered back panel, turning this personal item bag from a carry-on duffel into a briefcase style. Use the side handle for a more flexible carrying experience.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Next 40L Backpack
A 40-liter (40L) backpack is a fantastic size. It’s big enough for a weekend trip or a long hike. It is usually small enough to count as carry-on luggage for flights. Choosing the right one takes a little thought. This guide helps you find the perfect bag.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a 40L backpack, certain features make a big difference in how you use it.
1. Access Points
- Top-Loading: Most packs load from the top. This is simple and good for keeping rain out.
- Panel Access (Clamshell): This is a game-changer for travel bags. The bag opens like a suitcase, letting you see everything easily. Look for this if you hate digging for socks.
2. Comfort and Fit
- Suspension System: This includes the back panel, shoulder straps, and hip belt. A good system moves the weight to your hips, not just your shoulders.
- Adjustability: Can you easily change the strap length? Does the torso length match your back size? A proper fit prevents soreness.
3. Organization Pockets
You need places for everything. Look for pockets for a water bottle, a laptop sleeve (if needed), and small zippered pockets for keys or snacks.
Important Materials: What Your Bag is Made Of
The material determines how long your backpack lasts and how much it weighs.
Durability vs. Weight
- Nylon (e.g., Ripstop or Cordura): These fabrics are tough. They resist tearing really well. Higher denier (a measure of thread thickness, like 400D or 600D) usually means more durable but heavier bags.
- Polyester: This is often lighter than nylon but might not handle extreme scraping as well.
- Water Resistance: Check if the material has a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating or if it has a waterproof liner. Zippers can still let water in, so be aware.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all 40L packs are created equal. Small details show the quality.
Quality Boosters
- Strong Zippers: Look for reputable brands like YKK. Double zippers (where two pulls meet) are better than single zippers for security and access.
- Reinforced Stitching: Check where the straps attach to the bag. Extra stitching here means the bag will handle heavy loads without ripping.
- Metal Hardware: Metal buckles and adjusters generally last longer than plastic ones, especially in cold weather.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Padding: If the padding on the shoulder straps feels thin, your shoulders will hurt quickly when the bag is full.
- Flimsy Back Panel: A flimsy back panel lets the contents poke you. A good quality bag has a structured or padded back.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you will take your 40L backpack most often.
Traveler (Carry-On Focus)
If you fly a lot, you need a bag that fits airline rules. Look for a “clamshell” opening and a streamlined shape. Avoid too many hanging straps that might get caught on conveyor belts.
Hiker (Day Trips or Light Overnights)
Hikers need excellent ventilation. Look for a mesh back panel that keeps your back from sweating too much. Hip belts are essential for carrying weight over rough trails.
Commuter (Work and Gear)
Commuters need laptop protection. Make sure the laptop sleeve is padded and sits close to your back. Quick-access top pockets are great for transit passes or sunglasses.
40L Backpack Buying Guide FAQs
Q: Will a 40L backpack fit under an airplane seat?
A: Usually, no. A 40L bag is designed for the overhead bin. Bags that fit under the seat are usually 20L to 30L.
Q: Is 40L too big for just daily use?
A: Yes, for most people. 40L is great for 2-4 day trips. For daily commuting, 20L to 30L is often better.
Q: How important is the hip belt if I am only carrying books?
A: If you carry heavy loads often, even books, the hip belt helps support the weight. If the bag is light, you can skip a heavy hip belt.
Q: What does “water-resistant” really mean?
A: It means the fabric repels light rain. It does not mean you can drop the bag in a lake and your stuff stays dry. Always use a rain cover for heavy storms.
Q: Should I buy a bag with a frame?
A: Most 40L travel bags have an internal frame (a few plastic or aluminum rods). This keeps the bag stable when loaded. Hiking-specific bags might have a more open frame system.
Q: What is the best color to buy?
A: Black or dark grey hides dirt well. Brighter colors are easier to spot on a baggage carousel but show stains more easily.
Q: Are compression straps necessary?
A: Yes. Compression straps cinch down the sides. This pulls the load closer to your back, making the bag feel smaller and more stable when it is not completely full.
Q: What is the difference between a hiking pack and a travel pack of the same size?
A: Travel packs usually open fully (clamshell) and have hidden straps. Hiking packs focus on ventilation, lighter weight, and often load from the top only.
Q: Should the laptop sleeve be inside or outside?
A: For travel, an external sleeve means you can pull out your laptop without opening the whole bag. For hiking, an internal sleeve protects the laptop better from bumps.
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a quality 40L bag?
A: A decent, durable 40L bag usually costs between $100 and $200. Very specialized or premium brands cost more.
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.