They’ve come along way though, and I’ve tried a bunch of packing cubes in different luggage and packing scenarios. I’ve learned that some are definitely better than others. From design to materials to specific features, packing cubes could actually make – or break – your luggage experience. 

In this article you’ll get the dirt on the different kinds of packing cubes, what to look for (and what to stay away from), and a full breakdown of the best packing cubes for travel so you can choose the best ones for your next tip. 

See also:
The Ultimate Packing List for Long-Term Travel
Top Packing Hacks: Best Travel Accessories for 2023
How to Decide Between Checked vs Carry on Luggage 

Why are Packing Cubes So Great? The Benefits of Using Packing Cubes for Travel

While I was once staunchly against packing cubes, I’ve softened. Most of the time I travel with packing cubes now, and here’s why. 

Keep Your Luggage Organized and Tidy

Rather than opening your luggage to an explosion of random bits of clothes and accessories, you can keep your stuff organized using packing cubes. 

This is ideal for couples or families using the same luggage; each person could have their own packing cubes, so it’s easy to see what belongs to whom. You can also use packing cubes to separate clean and dirty laundry, or to group similar items together (like shirts vs. pants). 

This is especially handy if you’re changing destinations/locations a lot – it’s much easier to reach for the packing cube you need rather than to unearth a pile of clothes while digging around for the one thing you need, only to have to re-fold/re-roll and repack everything before moving on. 

Also, no matter how clean you are, the inside of your luggage is likely to get a bit dirty, and packing clean clothes into dirty luggage isn’t ideal. 

Maximize Your Luggage Space

This one is a bit debatable, since not all packing cubes actually maximize luggage space. Compression packing cubes are the trick to optimizing space (we’ll get more into this in a bit). 

The other trick is to use packing cubes of different sizes, so the smaller ones can fit into the corners and other nooks around larger packing cubes. 

Easily Access and Find Your Belongings

Not having to rummage through your entire suitcase in search of the one thing (that will inevitably be at the bottom according to Murphy’s Law) is a definite pro for using packing cubes! 

The trick is to be able to identify which packing cube has what you need; you can do this by using different sizes and/or colours of packing cubes so you can pack thematically and know where everything is. 

Some packing cubes also have mesh panels to help you to see what’s inside; others have number systems, and others yet have pockets with labels you can write on if you like to get granular about the contents. 

Protect Your Clothes and Other Items

Packing cubes can protect your clothes in three ways.

First, toiletry leaks or dirty items won’t contaminate everything else, which will be protected in their packing cubes.

Also, by using packing cubes, you are neatly rolling or folding your clothes and putting them in the cube. Assuming you fill the packing cube to capacity, then even if your luggage gets jostled around, the clothes within the packing cubes won’t move – which keeps everything together and reduces the chances that your stuff will come out wrinkled. 

Last, at your destination, the clothing drawers at your accommodation may not be as clean as you’d like. By keeping your clothes in the packing cubes, you just made unpacking a breeze, and you’re protecting your clothes against any drawer-ickies. 

Airport Security 

This is a bit of an “out-there” benefit to packing cubes, but it’s an important one. Picture this: you’re traveling with carry-on luggage only, and when your bag goes through the x-ray, it gets flagged for secondary inspection. The airport security officer then opens your bag and then has to rifle through all of your neatly rolled/folded clothes and even underwear! Not only could this be awkward, but then you have to refold/repack everything on the spot! Packing cubes help to avert this challenge. 

Not sure whether to use packing cubes or just roll your clothes and put them directly in your suitcase? I created a video where I did a side-by-side comparison. The results were surprising! Check it out here. 

Do Packing Cubes REALLY Help? Why You Shouldn’t Use Packing Cubes 

Everything has pros and cons, so let’s get into it. 

They’re Space Hogs

If you don’t use compression packing cubes, chances are you are not saving luggage space – rather, you’re wasting it. 

That said, my friend Alex who created Compass Rose packing cubes (which I profile below) begs to differ – she has a method of using regular packing cubes like they’re compression packing cubes that is pretty killer; check out her video here. 

Lose Track of What is Where 

If you use a bunch of identical packing cubes, you’ll have no way of identifying what’s inside; finding what you need will be more difficult than necessary. 

Wrinkles

Depending on how you pack your packing cubes, your clothes could end up more wrinkled than if you just rolled or folded them directly into your luggage. This is especially true of compression packing cubes, which really squish everything down. 

Comparing Compression Packing Cubes vs. Regular Packing Cubes

The secret to maximizing luggage space with packing cubes lies in the ability to compress your stuff down. Certain clothing items (I’m lookin’ at you, sweaters/hoodies/jumpers) take up more room than necessary if they’re not compressed. 

That said, they’re not categorically the best choice – it depends. 

What Are Regular Packing Cubes?

Regular packing cubes are simply rectangular or square-shaped organizers made of sturdy fabric that unzips on two to three sides. They’re like mini suitcases. They come in different sizes and are often sold as a set, designed to help you organize and compartmentalize your stuff within your luggage. 

Pros and Cons of Regular Packing Cubes

What Are Compression Packing Cubes?

Compression packing cubes feature an additional zipper or straps that compress the air out of your clothes, creating additional space in your luggage. 

If you want to get the most compression, it’s best to fold your clothes, however many people prefer to roll their clothes that go in the packing cube because it fends off wrinkles more effectively and it’s easier to open the cube and retrieve what you need without having to unpack the whole cube. 

Are Compression Packing Cubes Good? Pros and Cons of Compression Packing Cubes

In addition to the pros and cons for regular packing cubes listed above, here are some pros and cons specific to compression cubes. 

Don't be me. 

I started traveling with all the worst stuff. 

I wasted a fortune.

Instead, use this FREE travel gear and packing list cheat sheet.

Learn from my 2 decades of career travel, and kick off your trip with the best clothes, toiletries, luggage, remote work gear, and more. 

INCLUDED: Special discount codes up to 25% off! 

This will be emailed to you to download, for FREE. 

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Top 10 Packing Cubes for Travel: Packing Cube Reviews and Recommendations

Behold: a list of some of the most popular – as well as a few obscure – packing cubes! I obviously want to cover the top packing cubes, but I also want to highlight some lesser-known ones for their unique features that may be appealing to you for your next trip. 

I’ve further categorized them into two groups: compressible packing cubes, and non-compression cubes, so you can choose the best packing cubes for your travel needs. 

Keep reading after this list – because I’ll get into the specifics of what some of the features mean (like breathable mesh panels – which are a double-edged sword!) so you can figure out which features will be most important to you, and under which circumstances packing cubes are best (hint: the type of luggage you have is pivotal). 

Note: I bought some of these packing cubes myself, and others were sent to me for free. In all cases, the links to purchase these packing cubes are affiliate links, which means I’ll get a wee commission if you click through and buy something. This is how I make my living and continue to provide in-depth travel resources like this for free, so thank you in advance for your support. 

COMPRESSION PACKING CUBES 

Tripped Travel Gear Compression Cubes Sets

These packing cubes from Tripped Travel Gear have been making the rounds, and I know so because they stand out! They come in a variety of colours and sizes, but they are the only packing cubes I know that also have sets with unique colourful designs like national parks (pictured here) or travel bucket list scenes!

Aside from looking cool, these packing cubes also go the distance in construction, compression, and practicality. They’re ultra-light, well-made, the zippers are solid but not overly bulky, the compression is real (but doesn’t add too much weight), and depending which set you choose you’ll also get a roll-top dirty laundry bag and tech/miscellaneous (non-compressible) cube.

I have the 6-piece “carry on set” pictured above, and I think it’s perfect for any kind of travel.

Get your Tripped Travel Gear Compression Packing Cube Sets here.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Compression Cubes 

Eagle Creek is probably known best for these packing cubes. They’re made from ultralight material and compress down really well. Although I’ve never owned them myself, I traveled with somebody who had them and loved them. 

Get your Eagle Creek packing cubes here. 

Peak Design compression packing cube sets 

As the most expensive packing cubes on this list, I probably wouldn’t have considered investing in them….if I hadn’t hung out with a travel companion who had them and absolutely raved about them. So I performed a critical inspection! 

They are far and away the nicest packing cubes to feel and touch, and are made of this unique self-healing material that magically heals from small punctures and scratches. The tear-away zipper also makes it smooth and easy to open when unpacking. Everything about it just feels lovely. Like everything made by Peak Design, they’re thoughtfully designed, and environmentally friendly. 

Shop for Peak Design packing cubes here. 

Well Traveled Deluxe Compression Packing Cube Set

I was ambivalent about these when I ordered them, but I must admit they’re super handy. I love the variety of sizes in the 8-piece set; I can pick and choose which ones to take on each trip so everything fits perfectly together in my luggage. 

They also feel nice to the touch and the compression factor is amazing. I’m not in love with the card system for identifying what’s in each cube (I’m too lazy for that), but some people would probably love it. And they include a huge stack of cards that fit perfectly into the little pockets designed for them. So it’s the best of both worlds: sturdy material for compression, but still with the ability to know what’s inside each cube. 

Get your Well Traveled packing cubes here. 

Knack Bags

I rarely go on a trip without at least one of these packing cubes by Knack Bags. I like everything about them, from the oblong shape, to the breathable mesh windows, to the sturdy material that helps them compress effectively. Knack Bags also makes compressible shoe bags and other handy travel accessories, in addition to their signature expandable backpacks (which I created a video review about here). 

Buy your Knack Bags compressible packing cubes here.

BAGAIL 4 Set/5 Set/6 Set Compression Packing Cubes

I don’t have these (yet), but no packing cube review list would be complete without them, given their massive popularity on Amazon! This many people can’t be wrong; these must be good. 

Get your BAGAIL packing cubes here.

NON-COMPRESSION PACKING CUBES

Compass Rose Slim Packing Cubes

These are designed by my friend and travel colleague Alex of Travel Fashion Girl. She personally told me about her journey of tirelessly going through all the best packing cubes and identifying standout features, then the best materials, and then designing (and redesigning, and tweaking etc) the perfect packing cube. 

Shop for Compass Rose packing cubes here. 

Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set 

I haven’t tried these, but everything I’ve ever owned by Osprey has been well-made and strikes a great balance between being durable while still lightweight. I can only imagine their packing cubes follow suit. 

Get your Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set here. 

Amazon Basics Packing Cubes 

AmazonBasics’ packing cubes are a budget-friendly option that still offer good quality and functionality. They are far and away the most-reviewed of the packing cubes on Amazon, and still have a 4.7 rating, which is pretty outstanding. 

Get your Amazon Basics packing cubes here. 

eBags Classic Packing Cubes 

eBags is a well-known brand in the packing cube market, and on Amazon they’re well-rated and reviewed. I don’t own them (nor do I know anybody who does, curiously enough). 

Shop for eBags Packing Cubes here. 

Standard Luggage Packing Cubes (3pc set) – A Hanging Travel Dresser

You won’t see these on many (if any!) packing cube reviews, because they’re an accessory designed to fit perfectly inside Standard Luggage’s expandable carry-on backpack (which I review along with the packing cubes in a video here, and also in an article about one bag travel here). 

But you don’t have to own the backpack to own and appreciate the packing cubes – which convert ingeniously into a hanging travel dresser! 

Get your Standard Luggage Packing Cube / Hanging Dresser here. 

How to Choose Packing Cubes: Things to Look For in the Best Quality Packing Cubes

Now that you’re familiar with the various types of packing cubes (eg: compression vs non-compression), and why to use (or not use) them, let’s take a closer look at exactly what features to look for in choosing the best packing cube for you. After reading this, you can scroll back up to the list of top packing cubes and perhaps reevaluate your needs! 

Ways to Know What’s Inside

One of the top complaints of certain packing cubes is that if there’s no way to know what’s inside, then if you’re looking for something specific and don’t remember which packing cube you put it in, you have to unpack them all to figure it out. And if you’re using compression packing cubes, it’s an additional hassle. 

So it’s nice to have either a mesh panel on top, or colour-coded cubes, or different-sized cubes, or the ability to put labels on them with what’s inside written on the label (Well Traveled does this well).

Examine Your Zipper!

There are three things to look for when it comes to packing cubes zippers: 

1. High quality and durable, so it can hold the contents better (especially if it’s a compression packing cube, which will put stress on the zippers) and withstand wear & tear.
2. Ensure the design of the zipper isn’t such that the packing cube’s contents can easily get caught while opening/closing the packing cube. 
3. Some of the packing cubes above don’t open up fully (clam-shell style), and instead only allow the packing cube to open halfway. Some people like the half-opening style because you can leverage it to cram more into the cube, but most people (myself included) prefer clam-shell. 
   

Material

Look for packing cubes made of lightweight and strong materials, such as rip-stop nylon. Water-resistant or waterproof material offers added protection for clothes (though it’s a compromise in the breathability department).

Bonus points if the material is recycled, contributing to sustainability efforts. 

See also: Eco-Friendly Products That Will Help the Environment

The Cost of Packing Cubes

Obviously cost is an issue, but don’t let it be the only determining factor. There is usually a balance between cost and quality. Higher prices can mean the packing cube will last longer and may have better functionality.

If you travel a lot and want some packing cubes that will go the distance, you may want to spend more money. Then again, if you’re new to travel or on a budget, there’s nothing wrong with starting off with something cheaper to see if packing cubes are complementary to your travel style and needs. 

How to Pack Efficiently with Packing Cubes

Okay, you’ve chosen the best packing cubes; now to figure out the best way to use them! On every trip, I experiment with different ways to fill and organize packing cubes, and I encourage you to be equally experimental in your approach. There is no right or wrong answer! Here’s some guidance: 

Choose the Right Packing Cubes for Your Needs

Do you need a whole set, or just one or two? What sizes do you need? Think about what you’ll pack into the cube; it will help you choose the best one for your trip. 

Remember: although most people think about putting clothes into packing cubes, you can pack whatever you want into them! Get creative. 

Roll or Fold Your Clothes Before Packing Into Cubes

Ah, rolling vs folding: always a debate! You can do either in a packing cube: they each have pros and cons. 

ROLLING 

In general, I think rolling clothes in packing cubes is best used with non-compression cubes. You can roll tightly and stuff the clothes into the packing cube more effectively. 

FOLDING

In general, it only makes sense to fold stuff into packing cubes if you are unpacking everything immediately at your destination. If you live out of your luggage, it’ll be a wrinkled mess in no time. 

Use Packing Cubes to Separate Items by Category

One of the best things about packing cubes is that they help you organize your luggage. Here are a few ways you can organize your packing cubes: 

• By clothing type (eg: tops in one cube, bottoms in another, workout gear in another)
• By outfit (eg: one packing cube per day of your trip) 
• By family member (when multiple people are packing into one piece of luggage, packing cubes are ideal!)
• By weather or location (if you’re visiting different places, you can pack cubes according to where you’ll be and what you’ll need in that place) 
  
  

How to Decide If Packing Cubes are Worth It For YOU: The Best Packing Cubes for Different Types of Travel

Let’s put everything in this article together so you can decide in which cases packing cubes will make sense for you, and when they might not. 

Best Packing Cubes for Carry On vs. Checked Luggage 

If you are traveling super-duper ultralight with carry-on luggage, packing cubes might tip you over the edge in terms of space or weight. In this video where I do a side-by-side comparison of packing cubes vs. rolling, rolling comes out ahead….if even just by a wee bit. 

I say if you are using packing cubes in carry-on luggage, then it’s best to use compression packing cubes. (This is what I do). 

If instead you’re traveling with checked luggage, packing cubes (regardless of whether they’re compressible or not) will be invaluable from an organization perspective, since you’re bringing more stuff and your luggage will be more cavernous than carry-on. 

Not sure whether checked or carry on luggage is best for you? Click here. 

How Important is Organization? 

I’m a sucker for a well-organized pack. Not everybody is though. If you’re sharing luggage space with others, packing cubes are doubly important. 

Ultimately if we go on the premise that organizational packing cubes come at the expense of space and weight, the question to ask is how much time do you spend searching for the things you need, and how much does that frustrate you? If it’s not an issue, then maybe packing cubes aren’t worth it for you. 

Are Your Clothes Wrinkle-Resistant? 

Compressible packing cubes in particular may result in wrinkles if your clothes aren’t wrinkle-free or wrinkle resistant. Then again, packing cubes keep your stuff from shifting within your luggage, which means it will be exactly as you folded/rolled it within the packing cube vs. getting jostled about in your luggage. 

I think the lesson here, is don’t pack clothes that wrinkle! 

See also: The best wrinkle-free travel clothes for women 

How Often Are You Changing Locations on Your Trip? 

With packing cubes, you can “unpack” by putting the packing cube directly into a drawer, which might be easier than manually unpacking and repacking your whole suitcase each time you move. 

Conclusion: Are Travel Packing Cubes a Smart Investment?

As with so many things in the travel world, there is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the value of packing cubes varies for everybody. It’s good to know your personal travel habits before deciding to invest in packing cubes (especially the really expensive ones). 

Personally, I love having a bunch of different packing cubes to choose from for each trip, and I’ve found that you definitely get what you pay for in terms of quality, functionality, durability, and sheer enjoyment of use (eg: Peak Design’s cubes feel soooooooo nice). 

But I have a lot to choose from because I’m in this biz, and I’ve been accumulating packing cubes and testing them in various circumstances for well over a decade. Start with the packing cubes on this list that intrigue you the most, and go from there. 

Happy travels!

This post How to Choose the Best Packing Cubes for Travel in 2024 appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

In this article I’m sharing everything I learned through experience, and and I’ll compare the top packable daypacks on the market, so you can choose the best ultralight backpack for your next trip. 

See also: The Ultimate Packing List for Long-Term Travel
Check out my entire collection of Travel Gear posts

At a Glance: My Top 4 Picks for Ultralight Packable Daypacks 

Further down, you’ll read a full rundown of each of these packs as well as a bunch more. I have personally used all of these packs and I think they’re terrific. (Buying through these links earns me a small commission; it doesn’t affect your price, and it does help to support this site, so thank you in advance). 

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack – packs down the smallest and is the most lightweight. 

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack – same capacity as the pack above but packs down slightly larger; this is because it includes water bottle pockets and more interior organizational features.

Osprey Ultralight DRY Stuff Pack – slightly larger again, but has 2L extra capacity and is waterproof. 

Tortuga Packable Backpack – The least ultralight of these four, but with a structured/padded back and straps that make it the most useful/comfortable as an overall daypack.

Don't be me. 

I started traveling with all the worst stuff. 

I wasted a fortune.

Instead, use this FREE travel gear and packing list cheat sheet.

Learn from my 2 decades of career travel, and kick off your trip with the best clothes, toiletries, luggage, remote work gear, and more. 

INCLUDED: Special discount codes up to 25% off! 

This will be emailed to you to download, for FREE. 

Get Instant Access

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Why a Packable Backpack is a Must-Have Travel Accessory

Packable backpacks are lightweight, collapsible bags designed for easy storage and portability. They’re typically made from durable, water-resistant materials that can be folded or rolled into their own pocket or pouch when not in use. 

In addition to their convenience, durable packable daypacks are also an eco-friendly alternative to disposable bags. By using a packable backpack, you can say no to disposable grocery bags (for example), thus reducing waste and promoting sustainability while exploring new destinations. See also: My Zero Waste Kit for Travel

These backpacks are essential for travel because they take up minimal space in your luggage, and at your destination they’re perfect for a variety of activities from spontaneous day trips or excursions to grocery shopping and more.

Pack More with Less: The Advantages of a Compact Backpack

In my opinion, no packing list is complete without a lightweight packable daypack. From convenience to versatility, ultralight travel backpacks are the ultimate travel companion for adventure seekers and globe-trotters alike.

Here’s why: 

Packs Into its Own Pocket

One of the most remarkable features of a ultralight travel backpack is its ability to pack into its own pocket. This is not only instrumental for travel packing, but also at your destination. It’s easy to pop a packable backpack into a small purse or bag while you’re out, and then if you find yourself buying something and you need the extra space, you’ve got your pack ready and you can skip the disposable bags! 

Ease of Packing (Into Luggage)

You’re not likely going to want to use a packable daypack on travel days; for protecting/organizing/transporting your beloved belongings, you’ll want a travel backpack a bit better designed for the task. 

So the more compact a packable travel backpack can be, the easier it is to fit into your suitcase, which is especially important if you like to travel with carry-on luggage only. 

See also: Checked vs Carry on Luggage – Which is Best? 

Multiple Uses 

The number of things you can use ultralight packable daypacks for are limited only by your imagination. You can take them on hiking adventures, overnight trips, to the co-working space, grocery shopping, day-trip excursions, and more. No matter the situation, an ultralight packable daypack is a versatile and reliable choice.

Convenience & Portability

Because they pack down so small, you can take your packable backpack anywhere – which means it will always be ready when you need it. 

Great for Travel with Carry-on Only

If you prefer to travel light and avoid checking luggage, ultralight packable backpacks are downright essential. They’re lightweight and compact enough to fit in your carry-on, so you have a reliable bag with you at your destination. 

Just recently I was on a “one bag travel” trip (which means I traveled with one carry-on bag only, instead of the usual carry-on entourage which includes a carry-on suitcase plus a personal item). Not only was my packable backpack invaluable at my destination for outings and excursions, but even on my travel day it saved my skin! 

I was flying on a small plane, and because the overhead bins were tiny, they were gate-checking all carry-on backpacks and suitcases. Luckily I pulled out my packable backpack and loaded it up with valuables and fragile items like my laptop, electronics, medications, etc to take on board with me while my carry on backpack got loaded into the cargo hold. 

I’m not sure what I would have done without my packable backpack. 

Find Your Perfect Adventure Companion: Tips for Choosing a Packable Daypack

Everybody’s criteria for the perfect portable daypack will differ. Here are some essential features to consider when selecting a travel daypack, so you can find the best one for your needs. 

Before you even look at the specific features, consider the nature of your trip and how you might use your pack at your destination. Are you going to be doing outdoorsy stuff like day hikes, or perhaps even taking it on multi-day excursions? Or are you an urban warrior or remote worker who will want to use it to take your laptop and essentials to the co-working space? Or maybe you want your packable backpack to help you do both? 

With this in mind, consider the features below and which will be most important to you. 

Size and Capacity

The goal when considering size and capacity, is to hit that sweet spot between the smallest possible size when packed down, and the largest possible capacity when being used as a backpack. But the reality is, the larger the capacity of the bag, the larger it will be when packed down as well – which might be an important factor if your luggage is already full. 

In the breakdown of packable backpacks below, keep an eye on the weight, because that will give you an indication of how bulky it will be when it’s packed down, since most companies don’t actually give the dimensions of their bags when packed into their pouches or pockets.  

Material and Weight

When it comes to material and weight, there’s a balance between durability and packability. The more durable or waterproof the material is, the heavier it will be and/or the bulkier it will be when packed down (ie: the more luggage space it will take up). 

The more features it has like extra pockets or reinforced shoulder straps, the more useful it might be for heavier loads, but again, the less packable it will be. 

Here are some common materials used to make packable backpacks: 

30D siliconized CORDURA® is a lightweight, durable, and water-resistant material that offers excellent tear resistance. The siliconized treatment makes it ideal for use in harsh or wet environments, although it may be less breathable than other fabrics.

40D Nylon Ripstop is a robust and lightweight fabric that features excellent tear and abrasion resistance. The ripstop weave prevents tears from spreading, making it a great choice if you’re an active traveler and/or you like to abuse your stuff. However, it may not provide the same level of water resistance as siliconized CORDURA®.

The “D” in 30D and 40D refers to the fabric’s denier, which is a unit of measurement for the linear mass density of fibres. A higher denier indicates a thicker, more durable fabric, while a lower denier suggests a lighter, more breathable material. In this context, 40D Nylon Ripstop is thicker and more durable than 30D siliconized CORDURA® but may be slightly heavier.

Additional Features and Accessories

It’s the features and accessories of your ultralight daypack that can make or break your experience. Some examples of additional features and accessories to look for include:

Water bottle pockets: Daypacks with dedicated water bottle pockets provide the convenience of carrying your water bottle securely, ensuring easy access when needed. The extra material of the pocket adds to the overall bulk of the pack, but is immeasurably handier than having to keep your water bottle in the main compartment which isn’t as accessible. Also a lack of water bottle pockets eats into the capacity of the bag itself, which may be important.

Interior pockets for organization: Keeping your belongings organized is crucial, especially on-the-go. Interior pockets offer designated spaces for your valuables, electronics, and smaller items, allowing you to locate them quickly and prevent them from getting lost or damaged.

Compression straps: Compression straps found on the exterior of daypacks help reduce bulk and secure your gear. By tightening these straps, you can maintain a compact profile, which is particularly useful when navigating through crowds or trying to fit your daypack into tight spaces.

Exterior loops for gear attachment: If you need to carry extra equipment or accessories, exterior loops offer a handy way to attach items using a carabiner. These loops allow you to attach items such as umbrellas, walking poles, or even a jacket to the outside of your daypack, freeing up valuable interior space.

Waterproof materials and construction: You never know when the skies will open up. Waterproof materials and construction protect your belongings from getting wet, ensuring your gear stays safe from potential damage. However most waterproof packs will also be a bit bulkier and heavier. 

Best Packable Daypacks for Travel

Here’s a list of top contenders for the ideal packable daypack for your next adventure. 

Disclaimer: I have personally received some of the below packs for free so that I can travel with them and provide experiential advice. In some cases, I have also included affiliate links. This means I earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect your price, and it helps me to keep this site up and running. Thank you in advance for your support! 

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

Key Features:

• Material: 40D high-tenacity nylon
• Weight: 5.26 oz (149.23 g)
• Capacity: 18 L 
• Size: 16.54H x 8.66W x 7.48D in

Pros:

• Ultralight and super packable
• 2 dual-stretch side pockets (for water bottles or extra gear)
• 1 additional interior pocket with key clip
• Sustainable design, featuring bluesign® approved and GRS-certified 100% recycled main body fabrics
• Comfortable padded mesh shoulder straps with adjustable sternum strap

Cons:

• Takes a while to get the hang of how to pack it into its pouch
• Super wrinkly when you first unpack it (this goes away with time and use)

This is my current top pick and what I travel long-term with. 

Buy the Ultralight Stuff Pack here. 

Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack 

Key Features:

• Material: 40D Nylon Ripstop
• Weight: 6.85 oz (194.13 g)
• Capacity: 20 L
• Size: 17.72H x 10.24W x 8.66D in

Pros:

• Waterproof sealed seams, making it ideal for wet environments or activities
• Roll-top main compartment and zippered external front pocket for added storage
• 2 stretchy side-pockets with compression straps to keep contents secure (the compression straps are a really nice touch if you have a smaller water bottle or want to keep other things in these pockets)
• Top zippered pocket for small items, including a key clip
• Padded mesh shoulder straps with adjustable sternum strap for added comfort and secure fit
• Built with sustainability in mind, using bluesign® approved recycled fabrics

Cons:

• Non-submersible, meaning it cannot be fully submerged in water (although in my recent video about this pack, I did exactly that and it held up pretty well!) 
• Takes a while to get the hang of how to pack it into its pouch
• Roll-top closure is a little awkward to use
• Super wrinkly when you first unpack it (this goes away with time and use)

As the waterproof sibling to the above pack, I love this bag. 

Check out the Dry Stuff Pack here. 

If you want to see how the two Osprey packs above measure up, then check out my video reviewing and comparing these exact packs! 

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack 

Key Features:

• Material: 30D siliconized CORDURA® 
• Weight: 2.5 oz (72 g)
• Capacity: 20 L
• Size: 11.0 x 7.9 x 18.9 in 

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight and compact, packs down to the size of a tennis ball (packs down the smallest and weighs the least of all the packs in this list)
• Packs into an attached stuff sack with a handy carabiner 
• Ultra-sil fabric is great for strength, durability, and water resistance
• Reinforced shoulder straps

Cons:

• No water-bottle pockets on the sides. This eats into the overall capacity of the bag since I have to keep my water bottle inside the pack, and it’s not as convenient to access 
• Shoulder straps aren’t padded; maximum load limit recommendation for a comfortable carry is 15 lbs / 7 Kg
• Not waterproof, only water-resistant; contents may get wet in heavy rain or prolonged exposure to water
• Packs down small for a reason: there’s no external or internal pockets or organizational features

Get the (ultra-light, ultra-small) Ultra-Sil Day Pack here. 

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Day Pack 

Key Features:

• Material: Ultra-Sil 30D siliconized CORDURA® 
• Weight: 3.9 oz (110.56 g)
• Capacity: 22 L
• Size: 18.9 x 11.8 x 8.7 in (unpacked); 5 x 2.5 x 1.5 in (packed)

Pros:

• Of all the waterproof packs on this list, it packs down the smallest and is the lightest
• Non-PFC, bluesign® approved
• Waterproof with roll-top closure
• Reinforced shoulder straps for increased carrying comfort
• Packs into an attached stuff sack with a handy carabiner
• Double stitched seams and fully tape sealed construction for added durability
• Reflective compression lacing system for visibility and adjustable storage

Cons:

• No external water bottle pockets
• No internal organization features
• Not suitable for paddle sports or environments with sharp/abrasive elements
• Shoulder straps and pack are not padded, limiting comfortable carrying weight to 15 lbs/7 kg for short durations

This pack is the waterproof cousin to the (ultra-light, ultra-small) pack above. 

Check it out here. 

Tortuga Packable Backpack

Key Features:

• Material: 70D ripstop nylon with an Extreema®-reinforced bottom panel
• Weight: 11 oz (312 g)
• Capacity: 19 L
• Size: 18.1 x 10.2 x 6.3 in (unpacked); 7.9 x 5.9 x 3.5 in (packed)

Pros:

• The structured padded back and mesh shoulder straps provide ultimate comfort
• Holds its form better than any of the other packs mentioned so far (which tend to sag)
• I feel much better about putting my laptop in it (in a sleeve)
• Reinforced, tear-resistant bottom panel
• Two external water bottle pockets
• Removable and adjustable sternum strap
• Top front zippered pocket into which the backpack can stuff itself
• Main compartment zippers are lockable

Cons:

• Doesn’t pack down particularly small, not particularly ultralight (compared to above options)
• A bit awkward to pack into its top pocket given the bulk/rigidity of the padded back panel
• On the pricier side

Of all the packs listed so far, this is the most functional and enjoyable to use as a daypack. If luggage space is not an issue, it’s a great choice.
Check it out on the Tortuga Site here!

Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack

Key Features:

• Material: 70D Robic® nylon PU waterproofing
• Weight: 10.6 oz (300 g)
• Capacity: 22 L
• Size: 19.5 x 10.5 x 7 in (unpacked); 3.75 x 3.75 x 5.75 in (packed)

Pros:

• Super duper waterproof (with roll-top closure) main compartment for protection in extremely wet conditions
• Includes compression sack for travel
• UHMWPE-reinforced wear panels for extreme durability, abrasion resistance, and tear strength
• Gear loops, compression straps, and other features designed for more technical adventures
• Removable hip belt and adjustable sternum strap 
• Water-resistant front zipper pocket and side pockets for water bottles 

Cons:

• Not intended for submersion, not completely waterproof in such cases
• Considerably heavier and bulkier than all the packs listed above, some of which are also waterproof with the same capacity
• Not hydration compatible (consider Freerain28, Beast18, or Beast28 for hydration compatibility)

If you want a super durable waterproof pack, this one may be for you. 

Check it out here. 

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole® Tote Pack 27L

Key Features:

• Material: 100% post-consumer recycled nylon ripstop with a silicone face coating and a PU back coating
• Weight: 13 oz (370 g)
• Capacity: 27 L
• Size: 15.5″ x 10.25″ x 8″

Pros:

• Lightweight, strong, and weather-resistant fabric made from 100% recycled nylon
• Multiple pockets for gear organization, including internal zip pocket and external zippered organizer
• Stretch water-bottle pockets on both sides
• Comfortable, adjustable, and breathable mesh shoulder straps that can be tucked away
• Can be carried as a tote or a backpack
• Supports fair labor practices with Fair Trade Certified sewing

Cons:

• Both the heaviest and bulkiest of all the packs listed so far (though it also has the largest capacity so far)
• May not be suitable for carrying very heavy loads 
• Not fully waterproof; only weather-resistant

For versatility of size and carry methods, this pack is great. But it’s a bear in terms of weight and bulk. Still though, it looks pretty nice. 

Have a gander here. 

Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Backpack

20 L Version

Key Features:

• Material: 200D ripstop polyester
• Weight: 11 oz (311.84 g)
• Capacity: 20 L
• Size: 18″H x 10″W x 9″D (unpacked); 8.5″H x 7″W x 1.5″D (stowed)

Pros:

• StormRepel® WR finish sheds moisture for added protection
• 2 external zip pockets, 2 elasticized mesh side pockets, and 1 interior Velcro® back panel pocket
• Lightly padded adjustable shoulder straps with breathable mesh lining for comfort
• Four front lashing loops for attaching carabiners or clip lights

Cons:

• For a non-technical 20L bag, this is way too heavy. Designed more for fashion/comfort than function
• Some reviews indicate overall quality is not as high as the other packs in this article 
• Not waterproof, only water-repellent 

Check out the 20L pack here. 

30 L Version

Key Features:

• Material: 200D ripstop polyester
• Weight: 13 oz (370 g)
• Capacity: 30 L
• Size: 13in x 8.5in x 14.4in

Pros:

• Largest packable backpack in this article
• Durable ripstop polyester material with a water-repellent StormRepel® WR finish
• Specially designed for plus size, with longer and specially shaped shoulder straps and waist belt
• Hydration-compatible sleeve for convenient hydration on the go
• 2 exterior zip pockets, 2 side mesh pockets for water bottles, and a hook-and-loop-closure interior pocket
• Padded mesh back panel for comfort

Cons:

• Heaviest and bulkiest pack of them all, by far
• Some reviews say it feels cheap
• Not waterproof, only water-repellent 

Get the 30L Pack here.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations: The Best Ultralight Packable Backpacks for Travel

I personally own a few of these packs; specifically the Osprey packs (both of them), the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack, and the Tortuga Packable Backpack. I wanted to include some others in this article to make this a comprehensive review, but to be honest, in my opinion none of them measure up. (The only other one I would consider would be the Sea to Summit Ultra Sil Dry Day Pack for its ultralight qualities, though I don’t like that it doesn’t have any extra pockets). 

The Matador pack might be an option if I required a super heavy-duty pack for a technical excursion, but it comes at a pretty heavy (literally) price of weight and bulk. 

But in the end it boils down to you and what you need in a packable backpack. For me, it needs to be ultralight, pack down super small, and be multi-functional for a variety of uses on the road. Your needs may be different. 

Have you used a packable backpack that you think deserves to be profiled in this article? Please let us know in the comments! 

This post Ultralight Packable Backpacks: Essential Travel Accessories appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

What’s an Anti-Theft Bag?

Anti-theft bags are becoming increasingly popular and sought after due to the growing number of theft cases being reported. Whether it’s an anti-theft backpack, anti-theft purse or anti-theft bag, these special accessories are designed to offer a higher level of security and protection than regular travel purses and bags when travelling.

What sets anti-theft bags apart from other types of bags is the fact that they are crafted from materials that offer an extra layer of security, such as slash-resistant fabric and hidden zippers. Some even come with built-in RFID blocking layers to protect against unauthorized access to your personal data stored on your bank cards or passport.

What Should I Look For In An Anti-Theft Bag?

When choosing an anti-theft bag, there are four key features that you should look for to ensure your valuables are as secure as possible. I’ve mentioned some already above, so let’s go over them one by one.

Slash-Resistance Fabric

Slash-resistance fabrics are one of the key features to look for when selecting an anti-theft bag or purse. This type of material is designed to be resistant to knives and blades and helps to protect your belongings from being stolen in a slash-and-grab attack. Not only that, this fabric will also help to protect your belongings from being damaged in the event of a theft attempt.

The fabric typically consists of woven materials that have been reinforced with steel or carbon fibre wires to make them incredibly difficult to cut. Ideally, if the straps of your bag are also slash-resistant, it will be even more difficult for a determined thief to get away with your valuables.

Hidden Zippers and Lockable Compartments

Having hidden zippers and lockable compartments on an anti-theft purse is an essential feature that can significantly reduce the chances of a thief attempting to access your valuables. Hidden zippers are discreetly placed within the fabric of the bag, making it much more difficult for a thief to identify them and quickly open your bag.

Lockable compartments, such as those that are built-in to many anti-theft backpacks and travel purses, are also a great feature to look for. These offer an extra layer of security by allowing you to attach a lock and key to your bag, thus making it much more difficult for someone to gain access to your belongings.

RFID Blocking Layer

The final feature to look for when purchasing an anti-theft bag or travel purse is the RFID-blocking layer. Below I’ll explain why RFID technology is important to be secured properly. Passports and credit cards that have RFID technology cannot be protected by a mere piece of fabric or clothing, that’s why a dedicated RFID-blocking layer is necessary.

An RFID blocking layer is designed to protect your personal information and sensitive data stored on bank cards or passports by preventing unauthorized access. This works by creating a barrier between the antenna of your credentials and the reader, thus preventing any data from being transmitted and stolen.

Ideally, the fabric should be thick enough that it will block all signals from being transmitted to and from the cards or passports stored in your bag. Some anti-theft bags even come with additional pockets that are specifically designed to store these items, thus providing an extra layer of security.

Now the main question is – What are the best anti-theft bags?

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The Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags and Accessories

In addition to being vigilant and applying the tips above, you can get ahead of petty theft by using the following items specifically designed to deter criminals. From small to large, wearable to attachable, here are the best anti-theft travel bags in the industry. 

I have owned most of the items listed below, and with the exception of the Pacsafe purse and hip pack and some of the pickpocket proof clothing (which were given to me to review over the years), I bought them all outright. If you click on the links and make a purchase of anything at the stores I linked to (in this case mostly Amazon and Pacsafe), I will earn a small commission. Thank you in advance for your support. 

Best Anti-Theft Purses

The two leading makers of anti-theft travel purses are Pacsafe and Travelon. Both have a huge selection of styles and colours of purses. I own all of the purses below. 

Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack: Best Slash Proof Backpack/Purse Combo

This is both a stylish 5.5L travel purse, as well as a cute and trendy 8L backpack, and as such I adore it for its flexibility while traveling and at home. Here are some features: 

• Smart zipper security and cut-resistant materials protect your belongings
• Cut-resistant anchor strap secures around a fixed object to protect your bag
• RFID-blocking pocket protects your credit cards and passport against unwanted scans
• Can be worn as a backpack or folds down into a handbag
• Detachable strap can be tucked away
• Fits a 10″ tablet
• Internal pockets to keep your gear organized
• 5.5L expands to 8L

Shop for the CitySafe Convertible Backpack on Pacsafe or Amazon.

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag: Best Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag With Water Bottle Pockets

This is the best travel purse crossbody that I’ve found. It is a much cheaper alternative to the Pacsafe purse above, but also lacks the flexibility of being a purse/backpack combo, as well as some of the more unique features of Pacsafe’s purses like the interlocking tamper-proof zipper pulls. I do, however, adore the two side pockets for a water bottle (max 500ml) or small umbrella. 

• Locking compartments, slash-resistant body construction and slash-resistant, adjustable shoulder strap attaches to post or chair
• RFID blocking card and passport slots
• 2 mesh expansion pockets hold water bottle and umbrella
• Removable LED light
• Holds a 10” tablet, but reviews indicate it may not if you have a thick tablet case
• I don’t know the capacity; it’s more than 5.5L but less than 8L

Shop for Travelon Anti Theft Bags on Amazon.

Pacsafe Vibe100 Hip Pack: Best Anti-Theft Hip Pack for Travel

Pacsafe has a couple of different anti-theft waistpacks to choose from. I like this one because it’s not too small and not too big. I like the fact that it expands. That said, I haven’t used a “fanny pack” for a few decades, and I’m still a bit traumatized by how utterly unfashionable they originally were. So I’m still getting used to having it around my waist. The good news is it can also comfortably be worn as a stylish anti theft sling bag. 

All the zippers lock together to prevent somebody from getting into your bag in a crowd unbeknownst to you, but if you don’t secure all the zippers, they jingle when you walk which is a bit annoying. 

• Lockable zips and cut-resistant materials protect your belongings
• Cut-resistant anchor strap secures around a fixed object to protect your bag
• RFID-blocking pocket protects your credit cards and passport against unwanted scans
• Fits a 7″ tablet in a padded sleeve for extra protection
• Internal pockets help keep your gear organized
• Internal attachment point for wallets and keys
• 4L capacity
• Can be worn as a hip pack or a sling

Shop for the Vibe100 on Pacsafe or Amazon.

Best Anti-Theft Backpacks

Just like purses, backpacks are a very personal choice; from size to style to features, everybody needs something different. My #1 recommendation for security backpacks is ANYTHING made by Pacsafe. Here are a few dozen to choose from. They all have most if not all of the following features: 

• Lightweight
• RFID-blocking pockets
• Exomesh slashguard material
• Lockable tamperproof zippers
• Slashproof straps
• Ability to secure it to a fixed object
• Fits tablets/laptops and/or hydration packs

For the last decade (literally!) I’ve owned the Pacsafe Venturesafe 25L Anti-Theft Backpack and it’s not only indestructible, but it’s also understated and flexible to my needs. I’ve taken it on multi-day hiking trips into the Andes of Peru (as seen in the picture below), out to the internet cafe, and on every plane I’ve ever boarded. Even packed full, it fits underneath the seat in front of me, allowing me to keep my valuables close by all the time. 

Check out the Pacsafe 25L Daypacks on Pacsafe.

Best Anti-Theft Luggage

Once again, Pacsafe is the leader in anti theft luggage; in fact I don’t know of any other luggage producers that have anywhere near the same security features. Pacsafe makes wheeled luggage as well as carry-on and checked backpacks. 

See also: How to Decide Between Checked and Carry-On Luggage

Pacsafe Toursafe Anti-Theft Wheeled CarryOn (Since replaced by the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP21): Best Anti-Theft Rolling Luggage 

I’ve owned this bag since 2014 and it’s still like-new. I even traveled for two years, full-time, with only this luggage (and my Pacsafe Venturesafe Daypack)! A friend of mine owns the larger checked version of this bag, if carryon travel isn’t your thing. 

• Smart zipper security and cut-resistant materials protect your belongings
• Stainless steel anchor cable locks around a fixed object to protect your bag
• RFID blocking pocket protects your passport and credit cards against unwanted scans
• External attachment points for bulky items like a jacket, sleeping bag or yoga mat
• External compression straps secure and stabilize contents during travel
• Fits a 15″ laptop in a padded sleeve for extra protection
• Internal compression straps to reduce bulk and to keep gear in place
• External transparent pocket for contact details to help with bag ID
• Internal pockets to keep your gear organized
• Internal attachment point for wallets and keys
• 42L capacity
• Weighs 7lbs
• (H x W x D):22.8 x 15.0 x 9.8 in / 58 x 38 x 25 cm

NOTE: Tragically, supply chain issues forced Pacsafe to discontinue their lineup of anti-theft luggage. I have left this blurb above intact in the hopes that they’ll bring it back to life, or I find some comparable anti-theft luggage to love and feature in its place; whatever happens first. Stay tuned!

In the meantime, I have been testing out the Osprey Daylite Carry-on Wheeled Duffel – soft-sided wheeled luggage that also has backpack straps! They’re also removable if you need the extra packing space, which I did on the 3-month carry on only trip that I took it on. Note: it doesn’t have any particular anti-theft features, and you won’t want to carry it far by the backpack straps (your back will pay the price). But it is a great size for international carry-on standards, and for soft-sided luggage it has some great features.

Want a closer look at all the above Pacsafe gear? I walk you through it in this video. 

Safe Bags (Locking Backpacks)

Pacsafe Travelsafe Portable Safe: For Securing Valuables

These slash-proof bags with cable locks and combination padlocks come in varying sizes from 3L to 25L, and they’re a safer alternative to locking your valuables in your luggage or even the in-room hotel safe. Instead, you can fill this bag with your valuables and lock it to a fixed object, and nobody is going to be able to get into or steal the bag. They have the additional functionality of allowing you to secure your valuables (inside the bag) to fixed objects while you’re out and about (classic scenario: at the beach). 

NOTE: I ordered a couple of these bags to see how – or if – I could use them. I didn’t like them….at all….and I returned them. I am keeping this listing here because you may think they’re great! Here’s what I didn’t like:

• They’re not particularly lightweight
• The material is very stiff
• Cinching the bag closed at the top is very awkward
• The combo lock is fiddly (though you could replace it with your own padlock
• As an ultra-light traveler I just couldn’t justify the weight and bulk of these safes

If you’re still interested, you can shop for the Pacsafe Travelsafe Portable Safe on Pacsafe or Amazon.

LocTote Flak Sack: For Securing (and Transporting) Valuables

This lightweight drawstring backpack is slashproof, includes RFID-blocking pockets, and can lock to a fixed object. While it has the advantage over Pacsafe’s model of having backpack straps, the disadvantage is that it’s not as flexible in terms of what it can be locked to. Also, it has some disturbing reviews about the lock resetting and the material not being quite as slash-proof as indicated, and the straps probably aren’t very comfortable if the contents of your bag are heavy. If what you want is an anti-theft backpack, check out the Pacsafe daypacks that I featured earlier. 

Shop for the LocTote Flak Sack on Amazon.

Luggage Locks, Cables, Straps

I always look for luggage and backpacks that have lockable zippers and I always have a couple of TSA luggage locks on hand. But never fear; if you don’t have lockable zippers, you’re covered here. 

TSA luggage padlock: For Locking Luggage

I specifically use TSA locks so that if my checked luggage needs to be searched by authorities while it’s out of my hands, they can open it with a universal key and lock it again (rather than having to cut off the lock entirely). But these locks are also great for keeping the contents of your backpack secure while it’s on your back, or the contents of your luggage secure while you’re outside of your hotel room. 

Shop for TSA Luggage Locks on Amazon.

Prosafe / Retractasafe adjustable cable locks: For Securing Your Bag to a Fixed Object

Wrap these light-weight heavy-duty cut-proof cables around your bags to tie them together, and/or to secure your bag to a fixed object. Handy if you need to take your eyes off your stuff in public, and also to secure your luggage to a fixed object in your room if security is an issue.

Shop for the Pacsafe Locks & Cables at Pacsafe or Amazon.

Luggage Strap: To Prevent Your Luggage From Opening

A lockable luggage strap prevents somebody from fully opening your luggage (or if your luggage is old, it prevents it from falling apart while being tossed around by luggage handlers). Use this as an alternative or addition to luggage locks. It has a TSA lock so it can be opened if your bag needs to be searched. Added benefit: it adds an extra layer of protection if you have some pockets in your luggage that aren’t locked. 

Shop for your Luggage Strap on Amazon.

Anti-Theft Wallets, Neck Pouches, Travel Belts, Etc.

Anti-theft wallets are very personal choices according to your sense of style and needs, so I’ll refrain from making specific recommendations here. The good news is, most wallets these days are also RFID-blocking wallets. Never buy a wallet that doesn’t have this protection!

For travel days, I use the Pacsafe Anti-Theft Tech Crossbody Bag to carry my passport, phone, cards, and other essentials that I don’t wish to part with. It also serves as a great hands-free alternative to a wristlet when I go out on the town with just a few things.
A money belt is always good for stashing extra cash, as are hidden pouches. There are many ways to hide money in clothing while traveling, as can be seen here and below. 

These are all a matter of personal preference: check out various options here. 

RFID-Blocking Sleeves

If you love your wallet and/or passport holder but it isn’t RFID-blocking, then get a few of these lightweight paper/foil RFID-blocking sleeves for your passport and credit cards. Don’t be deceived by how thin they are; they do the trick and they’ll protect your identity from being stolen by a passer-by. 

Shop for RFID-Blocking Sleeves at Amazon.

Pickpocket Proof Clothing (Travel Clothing With Security Pockets)

I have many travel colleagues who swear by pickpocket proof clothing. I’ve honestly had mediocre results. My personal challenge with travel clothing with security pockets is that I’m not accustomed to using pockets; I always have a purse and everything I own has a place in it. And since most women’s clothing is unreliable in the pocket department, switching back and forth between using pockets and not having/using them is begging for something to go missing (in my opinion). 

That said, if you like using pockets, then this stuff is made for you. Literally. 

Pursesuitz Pocketwear®: Tank Top with Hidden Pockets for Active Pursuits (get it?) AND Travel Security

When I was speaking at Women’s Travel Fest in 2023, Pursesuitz had a stall set up, and I was drawn to it like a moth to flame.

I immediately saw the versatility in these unique tank tops; you can wear one as an undergarment on travel days to keep your valuables close and totally hidden, AND at your destination you can wear the top on its own while working out, hiking, whatever – and have pockets for the stuff you need with you. Perfect example: when I stay at hotels I like to use the gym. But my workout gear doesn’t have a pocket for the hotel room key, my phone, headphones, etc…..until now, that is.

Here are some features of the Pursesuitz tank tops:

• The Level 2 & Level 3 tops have pocket closures using the most amazing patented hook & loop fabric (works like velcro except it’s totally soft and flexible)
• Made from a recycled polyester / spandex blend
• Anti-microbial, moisture-wicking
• Various levels of bra support depending on the level you choose

Despite its supposed anti-microbial features, I found that after working out in it for a while, my tank top almost immediately started holding on to sweat-stink the way polyester tends to. Also, I have the Level 2 top, and the bottom of the tank (where the pockets are) rolls up and doesn’t entirely stay in place. The Level 3 top has an elastic band at the bottom that would solve this problem (as well as a built-in shelf bra that I would have preferred).

Use code Hobo for 10% off at Pursesuitz!

Clothing Arts: Best Anti-Pickpocket Pants for Adventure, Business, and Travel  

That’s me above, in 2014, wearing the Clothing Arts Women’s Travel Pants, when they were just starting to expand into women’s styles. 

To this day, Clothing Arts is primarily a menswear company, with relatively few styles for women in comparison to their men’s selection. I tried out their pants a number of years ago and the fit wasn’t ideal, but perhaps they’ve improved their women’s design with time. 

In addition to pants, Clothing Arts makes shorts, shirts, and jackets, each with travel-friendly material and an innovative use of zippers, flaps, buttons, and hidden pockets to deter pickpockets. 

According to them: “best described as “gear masquerading as a pair of pants,” our apparel represents the future of travel and the fusion of travel pants with the security of money-belts.”

Global Travel Clothing: Best Travel Jacket 

Global Travel Clothing keeps things simple with thoughtfully-designed travel jackets for men and women. They’re very high-quality, comfortable, water-resistant, and have a host of pockets to stash as much (or little) stuff as you like. I got my Global Travel Clothing jacket in 2016 and used it all the time in Peru (pictured above). 

A Special Shoutout to Pacsafe

Throughout this article you’ve seen a lot of Pacsafe items, and I own a lot of them. I never intended it this way, but having used Pacsafe gear for over a decade (on my own dime), I’ve become quite the poster-child for them! There’s a reason for that: they make excellent, high-quality, stylish, useful anti-theft travel gear and bags for both men and women. 

They have a large number of collections, which include (but aren’t limited to):

Metrosafe LS Classics – Understated unisex bags and anti theft crossbody bags with up-to-date security features

Citysafe – Travel purses for women, backpacks, totes, slings, travel purse crossbody, and more 

GO – Including the cross body bag for travel / small travel purse combo that I love and use daily (watch my review of it here).

Venturesafe – Backpacks, slings, and waist packs designed to be durable and lightweight (my Venturesafe daypack is still going after 10+ years of almost daily use)

Vibe – Men’s and unisex slings and backpacks

Travelsafe – Portable safes

Econyl – Bags made from regenerated fishing nets and discarded nylon (designs include Metrosafe, Venturesafe, and Vibe)

Metrosafe X City – Men’s crossbody, backpacks, slings; 2020 redesign of their most successful bags over time. 100% recycled 

Stylesafe – Women’s backpacks, travel crossbody bag, travel handbags, slings, and travel purse for women with an extra hint of style

Camsafe – Bags with camera-friendly dividers and compartments for Photographers

Coversafe – Hidden pouches to store valuables while you’re on the move

Dry – Water-resistant backpacks and duffels

Transit Apparel – Men’s and women’s jackets, vests, and pants with anti-theft pockets and other features

Shop for your Pacsafe gear here. 

Given my recent greater focus on environmentally friendly/sustainable materials and practices, in future I plan to explore their Econyl products, made from regenerated fishing nets and discarded nylon. 

See also: My Zero Waste Kit for Travel (and Home)

If you are looking at a different anti-theft travel product like a backpack, purse, or luggage, then at a minimum, make sure it has the same security features as Pacsafe, including: 

• Slashproof material
• Slashproof straps
• RFID-blocking pockets
• Tamper-proof zippers
• Lockable zippers
  
  

Top 6 Tips to Protect Your Stuff While Traveling

Anti-theft travel gear is important, but even more so is how you use it. Here are some tips and techniques that will keep you and your stuff from being parted unnecessarily. 

1. Always Maintain Contact With Your Purse/Daypack

The surest way for somebody to steal your daypack or purse is for you to put it down and lose contact with it. Classic opportunities for robbers include hanging it off the back of your chair when you’re at a restaurant or cafe. Or when you’re standing at a ticket counter and you put your daypack down near your feet. In both cases as soon as you are distracted, your stuff is easy pickings. 

Instead, when I’m at a restaurant I hang my purse off my leg, or put it beside my foot and wedge the strap underneath my thigh. Similarly with a daypack, I will put it at my feet while maintaining constant contact between my lower leg and pack, and if possible I’ll loop the strap over my knee. If I’m standing and put my pack down, I rest it between my feet. 

A travel colleague of mine was bereft of all his valuables (laptops etc) which were in his daypack resting on the ground at his feet while he was buying a bus ticket. A scam artist distracted him while an accomplice took everything. 

See also: 24 Classic Travel Scams, and How to Avoid Them 

2. No Room Safe? Lock Valuables in Your Luggage When you Leave Your Room

Luggage locks aren’t just for travel days. Crimes of opportunity are about getting in and out quickly, and hotel thefts are more common than you might like to think. If your valuables won’t fit in the hotel safe, or if there is no safe in your room, then lock everything inside of your luggage. An opportunist is less likely to steal your entire bag than they are to rifle through it or steal a laptop or tablet left sitting out while you’re at breakfast or sightseeing. 

Not sold on the security of in-room safes? You’re not alone. Check out the safe bags below for an additional option to keep your valuables secure when you’re not with them. 

3. Always Use RFID-Blocking. Always. 

Did you know that somebody can simply walk by you from many feet away, with a scanner in their pocket, and effectively steal your identity in that flash of an instant? Airports in particular are rampant with RFID-scanning scammers, but it’s not just there. Almost all credit and debit cards now have RFID chips in them to allow for contactless payment, which means wherever you go, if your credit cards and bank cards aren’t protected by the best RFID-blocking wallets, pockets, and sleeves, you are vulnerable. 

Also, you may have an RFID-blocking passport wallet, but consider how many times you take your passport out unnecessarily. For example, you’re standing in line for security or boarding. You’ve probably got another 10 minutes before you get to the front of the line, but there you are holding your passport out of its protective wallet. Don’t do it. Keep it in your RFID-blocking wallet or sleeve until you absolutely need to take it out. 
Note: here’s what I use instead of a passport wallet – it’s much more multi-functional.

The same goes for credit cards; be aware of how often you take them out, and how long they’re out. If I’ve thought of how easy it would be for somebody to steal your identity this way, then sure as can be somebody else with less honourable intentions has thought of this too, and they’re prepared to take advantage of it. 

4. Activate the “Find My Device” Feature For Phones and Laptops

If your phone or laptop is stolen, or even simply lost, you stand a chance of recovering it using this feature, and if you can’t recover it, you can erase it to protect your data. 

When I was living in Grenada, I hopped on my scooter one day with my phone in my pocket. Unbeknownst to me it fell out of my pocket along the way and I arrived home minus an iPhone. I tried calling it but there was no answer; perhaps the battery was dead, or it had been damaged, or it was still lost, or somebody had taken it. So I logged into “Find my Phone” on my computer and was able to pinpoint its location. Sure enough somebody had seen it on the road and picked it up. They had no evil intentions, and when I arrived to the area where it was and asked around, I was quickly reunited with my beloved phone. 

5. Never Leave Your Travel Purse Dangling off One Shoulder

Women, hear me now. Wear your travel purse across your body. This not only makes it infinitely easier to move around hands-free securely, but it will thwart most purse snatchers. 

In addition, if you’re walking on a sidewalk beside the road, be aware of the traffic beside you and carry your purse on the opposite side of your body to the road; it’s classic for somebody to come along on a motorbike to scoop your purse off your shoulder and make a speedy getaway. Even if you wear your purse crossbody, your strap could be slashed as they grab-n-go. (See below for purses with slash-proof straps). 

Wearing your purse in a cross-body fashion protects you not only against robbers, but against yourself. My purse was stolen in Cusco not because it was grabbed, but because I stepped out of a taxi with handfuls of grocery bags, unaware that my purse had slipped off my shoulder and remained in the taxi. Once the driver saw what I’d done, he made a speedy getaway despite me and two friends chasing him for many blocks. 

See also: The Day I Had my Purse Stolen, and Lessons Learned

6. Don’t Keep All Your Valuables in One Place

The other thing I learned the day my purse was stolen was something I already knew but needed to be reminded of. Don’t keep everything in one place. After over a year of living in Peru I’d become complacent and kept my cash, identification, debit card, and all my credit cards in my wallet. When my purse was stolen I was left with absolutely nothing except for my passport. I don’t know what I would have done if I didn’t have a supportive network of friends who could cover my expenses until I received replacement cards. Now, I always keep at least one credit card separate from the others, and I stash some cash in my luggage. 

Do Anti-Theft Bags Work?

In short, YES. 

Anti-theft bags are designed with specific features that make it more difficult for a thief to access your valuables by deterring them or slowing them down. This will buy you time in the event of a theft attempt, giving you the opportunity to assess the situation and call for help if necessary.

It is also worth noting that anti-theft bags are not just a deterrent against theft, but they also provide extra protection for your belongings in the event of attempted theft. The slash-resistant fabric and lockable compartments will help to keep your valuables safe and secure, while the RFID-blocking layer will prevent your sensitive data from being compromised.

For extra peace of mind when travelling, an anti-theft bag is a great choice to ensure that your valuables are properly secured and protected against potential theft attempts. Regardless of whether you choose an anti-theft backpack, purse, or travel crossbody bag, these features can help to keep your valuables safe and secure.

What are your favourite anti-theft travel bags and gear? Have you tried out any of the products listed above? Share your experiences in the comments! 

This post Best Anti Theft Bags & Accessories for 2024, Plus Tips to Keep Your Stuff Secure appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

Best Travel Accessories At A Glance

Best Travel Packing Bags for Organization – Compression Packing Cubes by Knack Bags

Best Packing Accessories for Toiletries – 3-Piece Customizable Toiletry Set by Tripped Travel Gear

Best Cable and Cord Organizers – These Simple Reusable Cable Ties

Best Tech Pouch for Cables, Adaptors, and more – Tech Organizer, by Tortuga

All the above – and so much more – are profiled in this article, along with pros, cons, features, and more. Enjoy!

What are the Best Travel Organizers and Luggage Accessories?

This post is going to outline a whole heap of luggage organizers, almost all of which I’ve used at one time or another. But it’s very important to note: using them all simultaneously will not make you a better traveler! In fact, too many luggage accessories will take up so much space that you won’t have any room for the things you actually need to bring! 

You’ll also notice that some items are great for travel organization, and others are meant to save space. The best traveling accessories are those that save space and organize your stuff, and when I find one of these gems, I take them on every trip (you’ll read about a few in this post). 

But generally speaking, each trip is different, and you’ll need to employ different travel packing hacks and travel organizers to suit the mission at hand. 

So have a gander at the various must have travel accessories that I’ve used over the years, and pick and choose best travel items that work for you. 

Note: Many of the links below are affiliate links, which means I’ll earn a (paltry, but still noteworthy) commission on anything you buy when you click through. This doesn’t affect your price, but it does help me to keep running this site and kicking out quality content, so for that, I thank you in advance. 

Best Suitcase Organizers for Saving Space

Clothes have a nasty habit of taking up a lot of space. Even if you’re judicious about how many items of clothing you take with you, they’ll likely take up a large portion of your luggage space. With the help of these suitcase organizers, you’ll be traveling in style. 

(See also – Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Wrinkle-Free Clothes for Women)

SegSac Traveler (aka The Hoboroll) – Best Luggage Organizer for Carry on

I reached out to these guys over 10 years ago when they launched The Hoboroll (before they renamed it SegSac Traveler), and we’ve been BFFs ever since. Not only did I adore their product, but with a name like “The Hoboroll”, it was like a match made in heaven for “The Professional Hobo”. 

Ingenious names aside, this has ever since been my #1 all-time favourite travel accessory. So much so, that I use it even when I’m not traveling, because not only is it a fabulous space saver, but it’s a great organizational tool. I traveled full-time for two years with carry on luggage only, and it is in large part thanks to The Hoboroll. It’s that awesome. 

The ultralight cylindrical compression stuff sack features segmented compartments inside (including a zippered pouch for valuables) and cinches shut on both ends. Then, the straps around the body of it compress the contents down to a fraction of the size. 

I use the Hoboroll to organize and compress smaller items that would otherwise be lost in my luggage, like socks, underwear, workout clothes, scarves, hats, gloves, bathing suits….it’s a catch-all for smaller wardrobe bits. When I arrive at my destination, I simply open one side of the SecSac Traveler to gain access to the contents, and I leave it like that – no need to unpack! 

SecSac Traveler Features and Specs: 

• Ultralight
• Water-resistant, rip-stop, 30D fabric
• 5 internal compartments
• Opens at both ends
• Converts to day bag by attaching shoulder strap (which admittedly I never use, but makes it handy if you want to use it for outings)
• Storage pouch reverses to secret pocket
• Aircraft grade, lightweight aluminum buckles
• 2 compression straps
• NO PLASTIC is used in their packaging or shipping process
• 2 Sizes: 18.5 Liters | 30 Liters
• Weight: 18.5L – 3.5oz | 30L – 4oz
• Size: 18.5L – 15″ x 10″ | 30L – 17.5″ x 12″

Gobi Gear – which also makes the Free Spirit 30L Adventure Travel Backpack (which I review in this video), is a part of 1% For The Planet, and they donate 1% of their profits to One Tree Planted (a non-profit in Vermont). 

Click here to order your SegSac Traveler (aka The Hoboroll) – and use the Discount Code the-prof-hobo for 25% off ($10 minimum purchase)!

2023/2024 update: Gobi Gear has been on a hiatus as they redesign their gear and product offerings. They will return in 2024 with a newly designed SegSac Traveler!

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Are Packing Cubes Worth It? These Compression Packing Cubes Are

What are packing cubes? They’re basically square or rectangular travel pouches with zippers. Nothing special. Packing cubes are great for organizing stuff, but they’re not always the best at saving space. That said – throw in a compression feature, and you’re off to the races. 

Compression packing cubes offer many of the same benefits as the SegSac Traveler – just in rectangular form. I use compressible packing cubes for clothing – especially sweaters and jackets and other things that are especially squish-able. 

From a space-saving perspective, it’s worth noting that I’m specifically recommending using packing cubes that compress. Why? In an ideal world, everything would fit into regular rectangular luggage cubes, which would in turn fit perfectly (like Tetris shapes) into rectangular luggage, making optimal use of all space. In reality, this doesn’t happen. Packing cubes in general are great for organization, but not always for saving space, since it leaves gaps in your luggage that you can’t always fill with other things. But the compression feature in packing cubes marginally makes up for this, which means they’re good for both organization and making the best use of space. 

I own and am a big fan of Knack compression packing cubes (pictured above). The material is sturdy yet lightweight, the mesh on top allows me to see what’s inside, and the compression zipper is easy to use and helps me save lots of space.

Click here for more info on packing cubes and a breakdown of the top brands and styles to choose from!

Compressible Shoe Bags

New to my packing tool entourage in 2021, I am adoring my Knack compressible shoe bags. First of all, they make it easy to pack my shoes without worrying about any of the gunk from the bottoms of my soles sullying anything else in my luggage. The compression straps help to maximize space, and having my shoes in these bags is a great organization tool. The material (similar to Knack packing cubes, as above) is both sturdy and lightweight.

Since my shoes are size Women’s 8.5, I ordered both a medium and large compression shoe bag. The large is absolutely enormous! The medium is plenty big enough, and in fact I can pack both my ballet flats and my travel sandals into it, no problem! I actually use the large shoe bag for dirty laundry, since it’s not just a shoe bag; it’s a great way to organize – and compress – anything at all.

Check out Knack Compressible Shoe Bags here!

Does the Knack name seem familiar? It’s because I own their expandable carry-on backpack and wrote about it extensively here. It’s a solid piece of travel gear.

Spacesaver Bags / Compression Bag for Travel – Vacuum Bags Without the Vacuum

If you have a ton of clothes to pack, then spacesaver bags (also called compression bags for traveling) will be your saviour. They’re the travel version of vacuum bags, which suck all the air out, leaving a compressed brick of stuff. The difference is, you don’t need a vacuum to make these work; simply fill the bag, zip it closed, and roll it so all the air can escape through the one-way valve. 

These travel space bags are incredibly useful for sweaters, puffy jackets, and other items that unnecessarily take up a lot of luggage space. Also, if you are traveling long-term or full-time with a wardrobe for multiple climates, you can have an organized suitcase by keeping your winter clothes in a space saver bag while you’re traveling through warm climates, and vice versa – making them valuable suitcase accessories. 

Get your travel space saver bags at Amazon! 

The Rolo (Roll-up Garment Bag) – Best Space-Saving Travel Clothes Organizer 

The Rolo is another travel organizer bag favourite of mine. It squeaks into the space-saving category only by a hair though – in truth, it straddles the space-saving and organization categories equally. I love it because it’s a portable closet; I pack my clothes into it, roll it up, compress it with the straps, and throw it in my luggage. When I arrive at my destination, unpacking is as simple as unrolling it and hanging it up.

It’s water-resistant and incredibly sturdy; I abused mine for over five solid years of travel and it still looks brand new. However this is a double-edged sword, since sturdy comes at the cost of being ultralight. Thus, when I’m traveling carry-on only with just one bag, I don’t usually take The Rolo with me. 

The Rolo Features and Specs: 

• 2 big clothing pockets, each 13” x 16.5”
• 2 small clothing pockets, each 14.5” x 8”
• Unrolled size 45” x 17”
• Military grade nylon mesh zipper pockets
• Patented high-performance buckles and zippers
• 360 degree swivel hook for hanging
• Reinforced support bar for hanging 
• Waterproof PVC-coated ballistic nylon fabric shell
• Compression straps on the outside
• Shoulder strap for carrying on its own (which admittedly I never use)

Click here to level up your travel packing strategies with The Rolo travel bag organizer! 
2024 UPDATE: Their website says they’ve temporarily closed their doors. I’m leaving this up in the hopes that they’ll get started again! Here’s hoping.

Best Travel Packing Bags for Clothes

Sometimes having your clothes well organized is more important than saving space. For example, if you must travel with clothes that easily wrinkle, squishing them down will only exacerbate the wrinkle-effect. In other cases, you might have plenty of room in your luggage, or you’re moving around all the time, and it’s more important to have easy access to your luggage’s contents than it is to save space. 

If this is you, then these travel packing bags – which aren’t really bags at all – are optimal. 

(See also: Checked Luggage vs. Carry-On – and Why Checked is Best for Long-Term Travel)

Packing Sleeves / Garment Folder

I know people who use packing sleeves and love them. I am not one of those people; at the best of times, folding clothes neatly is not one of my strong suits, which is why I generally must have wrinkle-free travel clothes. 

These little packing envelopes for clothes usually feature a flat board with detailed instructions on how to fold your stuff around it so it lies perfectly flat, then the garment sleeve wraps around your pile of perfectly-folded clothes. You’ll probably love having a garment folder if you have dress shirts and other clothes that are susceptible to wrinkling. Or, if you’re like my boyfriend and you have a compulsive need to fold everything perfectly, even dirty laundry (I find it endearing). 

This Garment Folder by Eagle Creek is very highly reviewed! 

Packable Shelves / Portable Closet

Packable shelves will do nothing to help you to save space, but as far as packing accessories go, they make packing and unpacking ridiculously easy. It’s like a mini hanging dresser; put your clothes and other items on the shelves, then take it off the rod and plunk everything directly into your luggage. The bottom zippered portion in the model pictured here is great for dirty laundry, shoes, or miscellaneous items. This fits into carry-on luggage (20”), although it wouldn’t leave much room for anything else (depending on how much stuff you put on the shelves). 

Sto-N-Go Portable Luggage System Features and Specs:

• 3-tiered organizer with zippered compartment at bottom
• High-strength hooks for hanging shelves in closet, on shower rod, or over door
• Latches help to keep everything in place when stowing shelves
• Fits suitcases 20” and larger
• Measures 17.7” x 11.8” x 25.2”
• Amazon Choice product with great ratings

Click here to get your Packable Shelves! 

Packing Accessories for Toiletries and Other Miscellaneous Items

Clothes are only part of the battle when it comes to organizing and packing for travel. Here are some other best travel gear and tools to help you stay on top of your travel packing game. 

Tripped Travel Gear 3-Piece Customized Toiletry Set – Best Toiletry Bag for Organization and Daily Use

This is a new addition to this article as of late 2023; until this time I traveled with the Sea to Summit bag below. But the bag below had some shortcomings, all of which are solved with this kit!

While both are hanging toiletry kits, this one is infinitely more practical from a daily use perspective. There are three distinct pouches that hang together, and the bottom one can be detached if you want to keep the contents of that part elsewhere, or if you don’t have enough room to hang the full monty.

Here are some of the things I love:

• The three separate hanging compartments allow better organization and access to the contents.
• There are handy slots on each side of the top compartment ideal for holding a toothbrush and razor for super easy access.
• On travel days, the three compartments fold into each other and zip up to make one nice contained package.
• You can access the main compartment from the outside of the bag when it’s zipped up!
• There is a separate TSA 3-1-1 approved liquids bag, that can also be attached to anything and hung anywhere.
• There is also a separate catch-all cube that can be used for anything.

Tripped Travel Gear Toiletry Set Features and Specs

• Hanging Toiletry Bag Dimensions: FOLDED: 6” x 8.5” x 3”; UNFOLDED: 21” x 8.5” x 2”
• 3-1-1 Liquids Bag Dimensions: 6” x 8.5” x 3”
• Slim Accessory Bag Dimensions: 12.5” x 4.5’ x 3”
• Detachable clear plastic bag on bottom holds four 3 oz liquids and secures tightly to hanging bag with metal snaps.
• 3-1-1 Liquids Bag has an adjustable plastic quick-clip to secure around shower heads or towels racks.
• YKK Zippers and zipper pulls.Fabric is 70D Nylon/poly mélange for super soft feel and ultra lightweight performance.

Get your Tripped Travel Gear 3-Piece Customizable Toiletry Set here!

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag – Best Ultralight Toiletry Bag

A few years ago I did some ultralight trips and got the Sea to Summit Traveling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag. I was initially worried that I wouldn’t fit everything I needed into it, but my worries proved futile. The large size fits everything I need, and takes up less space than I thought it would!

It satisfies a lot of criteria that I believe a toiletry case needs, such as: 

• It hangs, so you can access and use your toiletries anywhere
• Made of water-resistant/waterproof material
• Multiple compartments for organization
• Easy to see the contents for use on the go
• Super-light, strong and water-resistant Ultra-Sil fabric (similar to the SegSac Traveler material, which I adore)
• It even comes with a wee mirror, which comes in handier than I thought it would

The Sea to Summit toiletry bag comes in two sizes: Small (3L) and Large (6L). I have the large and although there’s lots of space in it, I wouldn’t want anything smaller. (Then again, I have five months’ of toiletries in the bag. If you’re on a short trip, the small might be just fine.)

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Case Features and Specs:

• Dimensions of Large: 10x9x4, 6L capacity, weighs 4oz/112grams
• Dimensions of Small: 9x6x3, 3L capacity, weighs 2.8oz/80grams
• Water-resistant fabric
• Internal mesh pockets and dividers for organization and visibility
• Durable zips with good grabs for easy opening and closing
• Shatter-proof mirror

Get your Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag here!

Pill Organizer (For More Than Pills)

Sure, you can use a pill organizer to bring along nutritional supplements (here are the supplements I travel with) and prescription medications (although, for prescription meds, be sure to have the medicine/prescription label in case you’re asked what the pills are). But these handy organizers are also good for so much more! Here are just a few things you could store in them: 

• Earrings
• Necklaces
• Rings
• Over-the-counter meds (painkillers, allergy meds, etc)
• Ear Plugs
• Coins (if you’re carrying around different currencies)
• Spices (if you’re renting an apartment with a kitchen) 

Really, anything small that you don’t want lost in the shuffle is a good candidate.

There are plenty of pill organizers out there. Here’s one that looks pretty solid and fits any budget. 

Small Travel Tubs

There’s nothing worse than a headache on a travel day (or any day). So I keep a small stash of easily accessible painkillers (and allergy meds) in my purse, in a little tub like this one. I also use these small tubs to travel with sunscreen, various creams, and other toiletries that I use in small quantities. 

GoTubbs are a popular option for travelers; easy to open (and stay shut when they need to). 

Contact Lens Case (for Creams or Condiments)

These are ideal for small amounts of creams and other toiletries you don’t need much of. Also, they’re great for condiments or spices (think: salt & pepper, chili flakes, etc) that you like to add to food on the go but don’t want a whole jar of. 

They’re cheap n cheerful here. 

Electronic Bag / Cord Organizer / Travel Charger Organizer 

This is new to this list as of January 2024. I’ve now taken it on two trips, and it’s currently with me on a 5-month trip where it has been useful not only on travel days, but also every day at my destination in “commuting” to the local coworking space.

I was highly dubious of the Tortuga Tech Organizer Bag at first. After years of using another tech pouch that had more bells & whistles, I didn’t think I’d be able to fit everything into this bag, much less keep it organized.

As it turns out, all those bells and whistles of the other tech bag made me think I had more stuff than I actually did! Everything I have fits into this bag – with room to spare. This includes a USB hub, all my charging cords and adaptors, a portable hard drive, cell phone stand, various USB keys, SD cards and even a compact travel light!

Everything has its place, the construction is solid, it’s made of durable waterproof sailcloth material, but it’s not heavy. It’s also flexible enough that it won’t ostensibly take up any more space than what’s in the bag, so you can fit it into whatever nook or cranny your personal item bag allows.

Check out the Tortuga Tech Organizer here.

Reusable Cable Ties

At first glance I thought these were thoroughly frivolous. Now, I’m amazed I lived like such a savage before. 

These reusable velcro cable ties come in a variety pack of different sizes and are so handy for organizing cables and cords for storage, and even for keeping excess cord out of the way while in use. This is money well spent – both for home and travel use. 

Click here to get your reusable cord and cable ties. 

The Scrubba Wash Bag

Even though I consistently hand-wash my clothes (because I’m traveling with carry-on only and/or I have delicate items like merino wool that I don’t trust in many foreign washing machines), I resisted getting a Scrubba wash bag for years in the name of minimalism. This is a shame, because only about 50% of the sinks I encounter can properly handle hand-washing. Many don’t hold water properly, and my universal sink plug is often useless (depending on the sink/drain configuration). I initially thought The Scrubba wash bag was simply a water-tight roll-top bag (aka: dry bag), but there’s more to it than that, and it doesn’t take up so much space that my inner minimalist feels violated. 

Features and Specs of The Scrubba Wash Bag:

• Uses less water than normal hand-washing in a sink would
• Textured washboard inside for thorough cleaning
• Transparent window so you can monitor clothes (eg: make sure it’s as sudsy as you want it to be)
• Twist valve releases air prior to scrubbing with the washboard feature
• Outside backing is sticky so the bag doesn’t slide around while you’re scrubbing 
• Folds down to pocket size when not in use 
• Multi-functional: doubles as a dry-bag

Get your own Scrubba Wash Bag at Amazon! 

Note: I have the Allurette version of the Scrubba wash bag, which is made for delicate items. This is ideal if you travel with merino wool.

And, if you love multi-functional items, Scrubba makes a wash bag/compression sack/waterproof backpack combo that even serves as an outdoor shower!

Luggage Scale

There’s nothing worse than standing in line to check in for a flight, and watching the check-in agent meticulously weighing all the bags of people ahead of you (even carry-on and personal items), before forcing customers to either pay extra to check their bags or repack on the spot. 

I’ll admit, I don’t own a luggage scale. But, this also means that every time I pack, I’m pretty stressed out. Many airlines weigh carry-on luggage (especially if you’re not checking a bag), and some airlines have very strict (and stingy) weight limits for both checked and carry-on luggage. Thus, a luggage scale is a handy packing aid for luggage that’s on my list of things to get, to reduce pre-travel stress. 

This portable luggage scale is simple, cheap, and does the trick. 

Cheap/Free Travel Packing Hacks and Tips

I didn’t write this post intending that you would race out and buy every single travel product on this list. It’s a comprehensive collection of travel packing aids so that you can pick and choose what works best for you.

Because let’s get it right: if you bought all these handy packing tools, you might not have much space left in your luggage for your actual stuff, nor money left for your actual travels – and travel is what this whole thing is about. 

When traveling across the world, you’d definitely want to come prepared. From packing the right clothes to packing the best travel accessories, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need for an amazing adventure….including what you need to keep it all organized.

I’m frugal (some would say to a fault). So let’s look at my favourite kind of traveling accessories: the free (or very cheap) kind. Also included are some travel packing hacks that I suspect you’ll enjoy. 

To help with packing, I’ve also included some space saving packing hacks and tips that can come in handy:

1. Ziploc bags

Ah, the almighty ziploc bag. I’ve always got a stash of them in various sizes that I use (and reuse and resuse) for a variety of purposes, including: 

• Keep small things separate and organized
• Hand-wash small items
• Makeshift packing cube / space saver bag 
• Pack a wet bathing suit (or other wet items)
• Separate dirty laundry from clean
• Fill with water then freeze and use to keep foods cold while in-transit
• Keep liquid toiletries from contaminating other things if they leak 
  
  

2. Dryer Sheets

Luggage can get a bit musty over time, either because it’s not being used enough (and has been stored in a humid airless space for too long), or because it’s being used too much (and has seen too much dirty laundry). In both cases, a dryer sheet will prevent icky smells from setting in. Also great for stinky shoes. 

3. Shower Caps for Shoes

Worried that your items will get dirty from your shoes? To avoid packing in a mess, make sure to cover your shoes with disposable shower caps. This will ensure that your items are kept safe from dirt and debris.

Next time you’re staying at a hotel, grab the free shower caps and use them to cover the bottoms of your shoes before you pack them. (And don’t forget to stuff your shoes with other items to help them maintain their form and to maximize luggage space). 

4. Foolproof Liquid Spill Prevention Trick

This one’s gold. Before you pack your liquid toiletries, unscrew the cap and place some plastic over the opening. The plastic can be cut from a plastic shopping bag, plastic food wrap, an old ziploc bag; you only need a small piece. Then, screw the top back on. Ta-dah! You’ve leak-proofed your toiletries. 

I still take it one step further after doing this and put them in a separate ziploc bag, but that’s as much for organization as for protection. 

5. Go For a Color Schemed Clothing

When everything coordinates, packing becomes a breeze. This means packing clothes in the same color so you can mix and match them. Darker colors are easier to pack as they hide dirt better, while lighter colors can help create more outfit options when mixing and matching. Read more about this in my travel capsule wardrobe for women.

6. The Pillowcase Hack

You might be already aware of this hack but packing the pillowcase hack is an outstanding way to save packing space. To do this, simply stuff your clothes inside a spare pillowcase and zip it up. This will help keep your clothes organized and in place, with less packing mess! On top of that, you can use it as a pillowcase when you reach your destination.

This can also be a sneaky way to bring more stuff on the plane than your carry-on luggage will allow; they don’t count travel pillows as luggage space, so your “pillow” could smuggle some extra things on board.

7. Virtual Packing Check List

You can never be too sure when packing, so creating a virtual packing checklist is the best way to ensure you’re packing what you need. Make a list of all the items that are essential for your trip and then make sure to check them off as you pack.

8. Keep a Toiletry Go Bag

As you’re on the go, packing a toiletry go bag is the best way to make sure you have all your essentials with you. A compact and simple pouch that can fit into your carry-on should do the trick. This hack can avoid several times of unpacking and packing, as you’ll have everything you need in an instant. This is exactly what my 3-piece customizable hanging toiletry set is.

9. Wear the Bulkiest Clothing You Have

You might be confused about this packing hack, but wearing the bulkiest clothing you have is the best way to save packing space. Jackets and boots are usually bulky items that take up a lot of packing space, so wear them while traveling instead. You’ll be in luck if your destination will be cooler than the place you’re leaving from.

10. Foldable Day Pack

A foldable day pack can be folded up to the size of your hand and will come in handy when you need it. Instead of packing a large, bulky backpack, packing a foldable daypack is the best way to go as you’ll have a smaller bag when packing and more space for those items that don’t fit into your suitcase.
Here is The Top Ultralight Packable Backpacks for Travel – a comparison so you can decide which one is best for you.

11. Tangle-free Jewelry

Avoid wearing bulky jewelry that can easily get tangled by packing them in a tangle-free jewelry organizer. These organizers come with multiple compartments, specially designed to prevent your items from getting tangled or lost. Honestly I’ve yet to find a truly travel-friendly jewelry organizer, so let me know if you have one! Because of this I travel with minimal jewelry and I always make sure it won’t end up in an irrevocably tangled ball.

12. Laundry During the Trip

You don’t want to be packing too many clothes, so the best way is to do laundry during the trip. This can easily be done depending on your destination. Bring a small bottle or bag of detergent (or even better, some eco-friendly and ultralight laundry strips) and hand wash your clothes when needed. It’s a great way to save packing space and packing time.

15. 3 Ingredients to Keep Your Bag Smelling Fresh

Using a small cedar chip, a sprig of lavender, or even cinnamon sticks can do the trick. Simply tuck them into your packing cubes and enjoy fresh scents throughout the duration of your trip.

16. Use Socks as a Cushion

Heels and hats can easily be crushed or bent if placed in a packing cube. To prevent this, simply stuff socks and fill them with small fragile items such as hats, or even shoes to keep them safe from getting crushed.

15. Pack Spare Clothing in Your Carry-on

Traveling is making sure you’re packing everything you need for the trip. But packing a spare set of clothing in your carry-on is a great way to be prepared for any unexpected outcome. In case of lost luggage or any unexpected event, packing an extra set of clothing can save you from potential packing mishaps.

18. Track Your Items with Photos

Taking photos of your items before packing is the best way to remember what you have and where it’s located. It also helps in packing, as you can easily refer to a photo and find where your items are located within your suitcase. If an unfortunate event happens and your stuff managed to get lost, you can use these images for filing an insurance claim.

17. Roll Your Clothes in a Bundle

It may sound ridiculous, but rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save tons of packing space. Roll each item tightly and secure it with a rubber band or packing cube.

18. Packing Cubes are the Holy Grail for Traveling

I’ve already mentioned that packing cubes are essential for packing. Not only do packing cubes keep your items organized, they also prevent clothes from wrinkling and taking up too much space in your suitcase. Always go for the compressible packing cubes to help maximize luggage space.

Here’s a mammoth article I wrote comparing all the top packing cubes on the market.

19. Wrinkle-Proof Fabric is the Way to Go

Regardless of whether you’re rolling up your clothes or folding them meticulously, they’re going to come out wrinkled. So packing wrinkle-proof fabric is the best way to go. You don’t have to worry that your clothes will be wrinkled when you unpack them. Merino wool, polyester, denim, wool, knits, spandex and lyocell are just a few of the fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily.

2o. Solid Toiletries are a Must

With numerous unpleasant encounters with airlines regarding our toiletries, packing in solid form is always the best way to go. Besides being safer and lighter, solid toiletries can be used for multiple purposes such as shampoo, body wash, and even toothpaste. Even solid perfumes are already available in the market. Here’s a video I made about solid toiletries.

21. Multipurpose Clothing

Since you’ll be wanting to pack light, packing multipurpose clothing is a must. A few items you can bring that suit multiple purposes are shawls, which can be worn as a scarf or used as an extra layer over your outfit or even a beach towel or sarong in a pinch; and packing light jackets with multiple pockets for extra storage.

22. Develop a System

Here’s a final piece of advice to tie everything together. Successful travel packing (and unpacking, and packing again) depends on having a system from which you don’t deviate. Everything has its place, and that’s that. This is especially important when traveling with checked luggage, because the larger your bag is, and the more stuff you have, the more likely you’re going to lose stuff in it. 

I don’t know how many times I had to tear my luggage apart in search of one thing; something I’d ingeniously tucked into a specific pocket (thinking it was so smart I’d never forget) before immediately forgetting where I’d put it. I actually lost something for years, once. Years.

By developing a system that is uniquely yours, you’ll not only be able to put your hands on anything and everything with ease, but it will also dramatically reduce the time it takes you to pack. 

Frequently Asked Questions For Packing Like A Pro

Apart from this amazing list of packing accessories for travel, you might still have some questions about packing for your next journey. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you plan your packing list:

Q: What is the most useful item for traveling?

A: The most useful item for traveling would depend on the type of trip you are taking. However, some of the best travel accessories that can come in handy regardless of your destination include packing cubes, a lightweight daypack or crossbody bag, and earplugs. I’m also a sucker for this travel power strip and surge protector. I never (ever) leave home without it.

If you are a fan of carry-on bags, I would highly suggest that the SegSac Traveler luggage organizer is the most useful item (which I featured at the beginning of this article). It’s an ultra-lightweight packing cube that can fit into any suitcase or backpack, and it’s made with compression technology to maximize space. It also features great organizational systems such as pockets and compartments, so your packing items are neatly organized.

Q: What accessories do I need to travel?

A: When it comes to packing for a trip, the best thing you can do is keep your packing list short and simple. 

Here’s a list of essential packing accessories that everyone should have when traveling: a packing cube or two, a lightweight daypack or crossbody bag, the SegSac Traveler, and some cable ties to organize cords. 

You’ll also need to pack adapters for charging devices such as your phone or laptop, as well as a travel adaptor if the outlets at your destination are a different configuration. If you’re going somewhere with unpredictable weather conditions, packing a rainproof jacket is also a must.

Q: What should you not bring on vacation?

A: In addition to fact that packing light is important, some items are just better left at home. Electronics such as laptops and tablets take up a lot of space and can be difficult to carry around while traveling, if you’re not working remotely along the way. If you’re a professional or a digital nomad who needs to bring your laptop with you, consider packing your tech in a lightweight sleeve and packing it in your carry-on.

Another item that may not be necessary for a short trip is extra sets of clothes. Instead, try packing accessories like scarves and shawls which can be used in multiple ways to change the look of your outfits and won’t take up too much space.

Other items that shouldn’t be brought on vacation include expensive jewelry, excessive amounts of clothing and shoes, and items that could easily get lost or stolen.

Q: How do I pack for 7 days?

A: Knowing how to pack for a 7-day trip can be tricky. To make packing easier, it’s best to plan out your activities and plan what you’ll need accordingly. Planning these are just the beginning and can be too mind-racking as you don’t know what packing items you need to bring.

Packing for a week-long trip can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! To ensure you’re packing everything you need without overpacking, refer to this post for a full packing list guide.

Q: What should I pack and not forget?

A: When packing for a trip, it’s easy to forget essential items. To avoid this, make sure you pack items in your carry-on such as your passport or visa (if necessary), ID and credit cards, any medications you may need, chargers for devices, and some basic toiletries such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer. It’s also a good idea to pack a map of the area you’re visiting and cash in the currency of your destination.

Do you like Travel Gear and Packing Hacks as much as I do? 

It’s okay! You’re not alone. Don’t seek therapy. Instead, read these posts: 

The Ultimate Packing List for Long-Term Travel

The Best Anti-Theft Bags, Purses, Backpacks, and Luggage

Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Wrinkle-Free Travel Clothes for Women

Best Travel Clothes for Men

Checked vs. Carry-on Luggage – and Which is Best for You

The Best Carry-on Backpack for One Bag Travel

…and all my other Travel Gear posts and reviews

This post Top Packing Hacks: Best Travel Accessories for 2024 appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

Just one bag? But what if??? 

What if….I’m forced to check it and my laptop is inside? 

What if….I lose it or it’s stolen and everything was in it and then I have absolutely nothing? 

What if…I need a day pack at my destination? 

What if….too many what ifs. 

And then I realized that I was taking the concept of One Bag Travel more literally than most. To me, one bag travel means traveling with just one bag; a minimalist travel backpack that gets my stuff from A to B, and then somehow converts into a daypack at my destination. 

When I looked around online at what other people define as one bag travel, for the most part it’s just about the best travel backpack (sometimes not even carry on sized backpacks) – as an alternative to traveling with multiple pieces of luggage. Sometimes the backpacks have some flexibility in size (with expansion capabilities for example), but really – the wimpy meaning of one bag travel is traveling with a carryon backpack. 

That’s poppycock! That definition of one bag travel is just a new spin on minimalist carry-on travel. It’s been done. 

So, I went on a quest. The quest to find the best carry-on backpack for one bag travel. 

Here is my experience with One Bag Travel pros and cons, one bag travel packing lists, suggestions, and a review of three different backpacks designed with this whole quest in mind. 

What is One Bag Travel? Just Minimalist Travel – or More? 

One-bag travel is an approach to packing and traveling that involves carrying only one bag of personal items. The idea behind this type of travel is to prevent the hassle and stress associated with hauling multiple bags around by keeping your belongings down to the essentials, often resulting in a lighter overall load. It’s the art of packing light by having everything you need for your trip in one single bag.

Having addressed the wimpy definition of one bag travel (which is really just basic minimalist travel in disguise), let’s look at what real one bag travel entails. 

In order for it to be a success, the bag of choice is large enough to transport everything we need to travel from A to B, while being small enough (or having separable modules) to suffice as a daypack while tootling around at our destination. 

Three travel backpack companies have stepped into the one bag travel arena to provide products that answer to this call. 

These companies are Knack Packs, Peak Designs, and Standard Luggage. They all sent me a free bag to test out for the purposes of this quest. You’ll see that each has its own set of pros and cons, and I’ve not been unduly biased or influenced towards one or the other. If you click some of the links in this post to make a purchase, I may receive a small commission, which doesn’t affect your price (but which does help me to run this website and continue to offer content to you for free). 

I hope you find this article useful as a review and also a resource with suggestions for how to make your own (real) one bag travel adventures a success. 

Don't be me. 

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I wasted a fortune.

Instead, use this FREE travel gear and packing list cheat sheet.

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At a Glance: Best One Bag Travel Bags

Knack Pack Expandable Travel Backpack (Best expandable backpack for shorter one bag trips)

Peak Design Travel Backpack (Best carry-on backpack for adventure travel and/or photographers)

Standard Luggage Carry-On Travel Backpack and Packing Cubes (Best choice for one bag travel if you also have their multi-use packing cubes)

What To Look For In A One Bag Travel Bag

When selecting a carry-on backpack for one-bag travel, it is important to consider a list of factors and we will go over each of them in detail.

Size

The first on the list of factors to consider is the size of the bag. Ideally, you should aim for a bag that can hold all of your belongings in an organized manner while still being small enough to fit into most overhead compartments.

Durability

The material and construction of the bag should also be taken into account to ensure that it can handle long-term use. The higher quality bags are usually made from more durable materials such as canvas or polyester and feature reinforced seams, double stitching, waterproofing and well-padded shoulder straps for extra comfort.

Organization

The best one-bag travel backpack should also come with plenty of pockets, compartments and other organizational features to help you keep all of your items in the order.

Weight

Finally, the weight of the bag is another important factor to consider when selecting the right one-bag travel backpack. While it should be light enough to carry around, don’t forget that you will be packing it full of your essentials and thus its overall weight can become quite significant.

Expansion

In order to truly be functional as one bag for travel, it is best if it expands to get all your stuff to your destination, then compresses (or breaks apart into modules) to be useful as a smaller daypack at your destination. It’s a very precarious balance.

The Best One Bag Travel Backpacks

1. Knack Pack Expandable Travel Backpack – Best Expandable Backpack for Shorter One Bag Trips

Note: Since I originally wrote this article, Knack Bags redesigned their lineup, and also evolved into a spiffy “Series 2” lineup. I have edited the text below to reflect the amended Series 1 bag (which is basically what I had). Though if I were in the market for a new backpack, I would purchase the Series 2, and I’ll tell you why below.

Knack Bags sent me their Series 1 Large Expandable Travel Backpack. I was immediately impressed with this lightweight backpack with lots of well-thought-out features. It’s made of water-resistant material and zippers. 

The molded foam padded back is comfortable (though lacks breathability in hot weather). There’s also an adjustable removable sternum strap for heavier loads. The shoulder straps also tuck away in case you need to check the bag or prefer to carry it by the top handle. 
Note: The Series 2 bag has a side handle so you can carry it like a briefcase after tucking away the backpack straps.

The Knack Pack magic happens with its hidden expandable backpack luggage compartment. This expands the capacity of the bag from 30 litres to 46 litres! When not expanded, the pack fits under the seat in front of you on an airplane, and fully expanded, it fits most airlines’ carry-on size regulations (for the overhead bin). 

My biggest beef with Knack Pack might be another person’s accolade: there are a gazillion pockets.

The front diagonal zippers reveal an oddly-shaped area with RFID-protected pockets for cards and other smallish items. Thing is, I’d never keep anything of value in there, because it would be too easy for somebody to open the zippers (which can’t be locked) and rifle through my stuff unbeknownst to me while the pack is on my back. (The zippers for the other compartments are lockable though; just not the front triangular pocket). 
Note: In the Series 2 bag, the front compartment has been redesigned to have more space and is also lockable, easier to open, and thus much more practical. It also has some secret compartments for valuables.

Behind that is a much larger compartment with a variety of slots and pockets to organize stuff. This is the meat of the daypack part of the bag. 

Behind that, is the expandable luggage compartment, which opens up completely for convenient flat packing and organization. 

At the side of the pack is a water bottle pocket that zips away so it’s hidden. It fits up to a 700ml (24oz) bottle. 

Lastly, at the very back of the pack, is a subtle side zipper revealing a large padded 15″ laptop compartment. 

Note: the Series 2 bag also has a hidden pass-thru sleeve so the Knack Bag can slide over a wheeled luggage handle.

Knack Pack Large Expandable Backpack Specs (Series 1)

Pack Dimensions (L(height)xWxD): Expanded – 21.5″ x 14″ x 9.5″ Unexpanded – 21.5″ x 14″ x 4.5″

Volume: Expanded – 46 Litres  Unexpanded – 30 Litres

Weight: 3.25 pounds (1.47kg) 

While volume-wise, Knack Pack’s Large pack is an appropriate size for most carry-on travel situations, I will say that because of the dimensions of the pack, it feels large, even when not expanded. I took it on a couple of weekend excursions, and even unexpanded I felt like it was overkill, even though in its stead I would have taken a 25 (or even 30) litre daypack. 

If the large is too big for your needs, consider the medium. Series 1 Medium is a bit bigger than the Series 2 Medium, but I prefer the design of the Series 2 bags overall. I believe for short trips of up to a week, the medium size is the best bag for weekend travel. Confused yet? I’ll bet. You can compare all of Knack’s expandable backpacks here.

Want to see the Series 1 Large AND Series 2 Medium in action in a direct comparison? Watch my video here!

For longer trips, you may want the large size, especially if you’re bringing lots of technological tidbits like laptops, cameras, and other hardware. However the large size is large enough that it ceases to be truly practical as a day-pack in the spirit of one bag travel.

Taking Knack Pack on a One-Week Business Trip

Knack Pack was put to the full test on a one-week trip I took from Toronto to Boston to attend a conference. It was a pretty simple trip during the summer season, requiring some casual and semi-business attire, workout gear, and of course my business accoutrements. 

Before going, the challenges for me were multi-fold:

• Because I was taking a smaller commuter plane, I was worried about being forced to check my bag. If that were to happen, I would have had to remove my laptop and a few other items I wasn’t willing to check. Thus, instead of slipping my laptop in the padded laptop pocket as is (like most normal people do), I kept it in its case with a shoulder strap. This took up extra space and weight. But it served me well because I could easily take my laptop on to the plane separately and stow the Knack Pack overhead without having to access it during the flight. NOTE: My new solution to this problem is to use a large enough tote as my personal item that I can keep my laptop in it. My latest love affair is with the Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack/Tote. 
• I was unconvinced that I’d feel comfortable carrying the unexpanded Knack Pack around as my daypack during the conference. Not only did it seem too big, but coupled with my stylish wrinkle-free wardrobe, it lacked a certain panache. (Once again: a problem that would have been solved with the Pacsafe bag).

Here’s how the trip rolled: 

• While I wasn’t super attentive to ultralight packing, I was surprised in that the Medium Knack Pack was pretty full. I probably could have used the large size, as the medium was a tight fit. 
• I didn’t have to check the bag, but it was a tight fit in the overhead compartment on the commuter plane. Pay close attention to carry-on bag size guidelines whenever you fly! I watched many people on the flight who couldn’t fit their standard carry-on luggage into the overhead compartments. 
• I did use the Knack Pack as my day bag during the conference, and while it served its purpose, it was too big for just my laptop, notebook, jacket, phone, wallet, and business cards. (Hello: Pacsafe! If you don’t like the Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack, they have a plethora of other options to suit your style and needs). 
  
  

Carry On Packing List for a One-Week Trip With Knack Bags

Pictured above is everything I took with me on my one week trip. This carry on packing list includes the following: 

See also: Pro Packing Hacks – Best Travel Accessories for Saving Space and Organization

Packed into the Hoboroll (top left):

• Pajamas
• Workout Clothes
• 4 pairs Underwear
• 4 pairs Socks
• Bathing Suit

Packed into packing cube (Travel Capsule Wardrobe, top middle):

• 1 pair Pants
• 1 Skirt
• 1 Tank Top
• 1 Short-sleeved Shirt
• 1 Lightweight Jacket

Electronics/Business Stuff

• Laptop and Charging Cord
• Extension cord/surge protector/USB charging station/Travel Adaptor (all-in-one)
• Notebook
• KeepGo Mobile WiFi Router 
• Various USB Charging Cords
• Kindle
• Business Cards

Extra Stuff

• Zero Waste Travel Kit
• Ultralight foldable backpack (just in case)
• Packing Cube for dirty laundry
• Wristlet (for nights out when I don’t want to carry the Knack Pack)
• 2 pairs Shoes (1 dressy ballet flats, 1 sandals; I wore runners on travel day)
• Toiletries (bottom left)
• Rain Jacket
  
  

Overall Experience: Knack Bags Expandable Travel Backpack

On the whole, I think it’s a fabulous bag. It offers a ton of protection with padded everything, lots of organization with various compartments and related features, and even the large size, fully packed, fits most carry-on guidelines (if it’s packed to the gills you might have a tough time on smaller commuter planes). 

The biggest cons is that the bag’s dimensions make it appear larger than it really is when not expanded. 

I think the medium size Knack Bag is the best carry on bag for trips of about a week (give or take), and the large size is ideal for longer trips. (Of course, this ultimately depends on the nature of the trip and how much stuff you need to bring). 

I referred the Knack Bags to my friend who travels for business all the time, and he said – emphatically – that it is the best backpack for work and travel that he has ever owned. Is it the best backpack for business travel? Well….it depends on your needs and the length of your trip. What’s for sure is that this is an incredibly well-made bag, and if you check out their site they’re developing some new stuff too. 

Shop for Knack Packs here. 

2. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L – Best Carry-On Backpack for Adventure Travel and/or Photographers

To be perfectly honest, after my positive experience with Knack Bags, I was leery of the Peak Design bag in front of me, comparatively looming in size (you’ll see what I mean in a minute). 

But, some colleagues of mine who are professional photographers hail Peak Design as having the best camera backpack for travel. Granted, they have different Peak Design models; Peak Design’s roots are in making everyday bags and other gear specifically for photographers, who have somewhat unique needs for space and organizational characteristics. 

I also adore their commitment to the environment and socially responsible practices; for example, their waterproof material is made of 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas, and they donate 1% of revenue to environmental non-profits. 

So, given that the Peak Design Carry-On Travel Backpack is claiming a stake in the one bag travel movement, I tested it out to see how it fared. 

“You look like a Ninja Turtle!” exclaimed my boyfriend as soon as I donned my Peak Design backpack. Not the reaction I was going for. (Ironically a couple of years later when we broke up, he absconded with the bag, so it couldn’t have looked that bad).

Unfortunately, he wasn’t entirely wrong. Even empty and fully “compressed”, the Peak Design travel backpack sits commandingly on the back (and my choice of green colour doesn’t help the whole ninja turtle thing). 

Thus, it immediately became apparent to me that I would not be using this backpack as a daypack at my destination. It’s simply too big! So unfortunately, it immediately failed the one bag travel test according to my strict criteria. 

However, I’ll say it again: perhaps travelers who are toting drones, DSLR cameras, lenses, and other photographic equipment would find this a suitable carry-on backpack/daypack combo. (Though technically if your camera equipment takes up all the compressed space of 30L, then your clothes and other stuff would need to fit into the remaining 15L of expansion space; I’m doubtful). 

But, I wasn’t ready to write off this bag; while the expansion/compression features are minimal, they are still noteworthy, making this a carry-on backpack that can flex in size from trip to trip (and also within one trip). 

It’s also one of the most solid and sturdy backpacks I’ve ever seen, and this lends it well to adventure travel. 

FEATURES: 

There’s no two ways about it; this is a solid bag (which is a double-edged sword, when you consider what “solid” weighs). It’s so solid it comes with a lifetime guarantee, and its features are MANY. 

It’s super durable, made of recycled plastics (yay!), and both the bag and the (lockable) zippers are weatherproof. 

The front compartment has simple zippered pockets for organization, and this compartment also expands by an additional 10 litres. 

Behind that is the main compartment, which is accessible from both sides as well as the back (the entire back of the pack opens up fully for ease of packing, and the side zips make access on-the-go easy). The padded laptop sleeve sits at the very back of this section. The main compartment expands an additional five litres with some snaps at the top. 

Behind the subtle drink pockets on each side of the bag is a hidden zippered pocket for valuables. 

The very back of the pack has magnetic flaps that allow you to very easily hide away the backpack straps and waist belt, and there are super-sturdy streamlined carry-handles on the top, both sides, and even the back. 

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L Specs

Pack Dimensions (L(height)xWxD): Expanded 22” x 13” x 11”; Regular/Compressed 22” x 13” x 9”

Volume: Expanded – 45 Litres; Normal – 35 Litres; Compressed – 30 Litres

Weight: 4.5 pounds (2.05kg)

Taking My Peak Design Backpack on a 9-Day Business/Adventure Trip

Compared to my trip with the Knack Pack (one-week business trip in summer), Peak Design had a more complicated task at hand. I needed business clothes for the four-day conference I was speaking at in Montana, as well as adventure clothes/shoes for the five-day Montana road trip afterwards, which would involve hiking, zip lining, fishing, hot springs, and more; changing hotels daily. 

Being autumn and in the mountains, layers were essential, specifically lots of warm layers for the fickle weather and cold mornings. 

This immediately sparked concerns about weight and space. Two different wardrobes plus heavier layers, all in a carry-on backpack that already weighs 20% of my entire carry-on weight allowance of 22 lbs/10kg? Yikes. 

I sweated this one out for days prior to packing. 

But in the end, with the help of some cool space-saving packing tools like compressible packing cubes and my Hoboroll, I made it all fit into the pack at it’s normal (unexpanded) size which just fit the carry-on size requirements and weighed in at 20 pounds (also squeaking in under the limit). 

I was able to make this work in large part because of the Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack/Tote, which would be not only my purse for the trip, but also my daypack and laptop bag. 

Technically, it means this was not a one-bag trip, given that Peak Design was relegated only to use on travel days. But this bag would still be put through its paces in ease of pack/unpack-ability in the adventure portion of the trip when I would be on the go and changing hotels every night. 

Here’s how it went down:

The top snaps for “compressing” the bag are a bit difficult to snap and only minimally change the bag’s profile. But they did create a surprising amount of extra space for some swag I received at the conference. 

So too did the expansion zippers at the front. Again on initial inspection, I thought this minimal expansion was useless. But when I did the road trip, I had to put my (bulky, heavy) dress shoes/boots in the backpack while I wore my (ultralight, low-profile) hikers. I also stashed my laptop in the backpack since I didn’t need it in my purse/daypack. 

Between the conference swag, laptop, and having to pack some of the bulkier items I usually wear on air travel days, I was really pleased to have a bag that could expand in a few different ways when I needed it to, and compress back down when I didn’t need the space. 

I was also really impressed with the make of the bag, including the following features:

• The zippers are super high quality 
• The material feels indestructible 
• The backpack straps are really comfortable 
• The carry handles are super solid and easy to use
• The backpack straps and waist belt are really easy to tuck away
  
  

Ultralight Travel Packing List for a 9-Day Business/Adventure Combo Trip

Pictured above is everything I took with me on my nine day trip. It’s all in this ultralight travel packing list: 

(Note: halfway through the trip I needed to hand-wash some items like underwear and socks).

Packed into the Hoboroll (top left):

• Pajamas
• Workout Clothes
• 5 pairs Underwear
• 1 bra 
• 5 pairs Socks
• Bathing Suit
• Buff
• Warm hat

Packed into two compressible packing cubes (Travel Capsule Wardrobe, right, next to the Peak Designs backpack):

• 2 pairs dress pants
• 1 pair hiking pants
• 1 pair leggings (doubles as a layer for warmth)
• 2 sleeveless tops
• 2 long-sleeved tops
• 2 ultralight jackets (business style and layering for warmth)
• 1 light sweater
• 1 fleece-lined zip-up sweater

Electronics/Business Stuff (I took my laptop and its charge cord in my purse/tote)

• Extension cord/surge protector/USB charging station/Travel Adaptor (all-in-one)
• Various USB Charging Cords
• Kindle
• Business Cards

Extra Stuff

• Wristlet (for nights out when I don’t want to bring my purse)
• 2 pairs shoes (1 hiking/ultralight trail runners, 1 ballet flats; I wore dress boots on travel day)
• 1 pair flip flops (for visiting hot springs)
• Toiletries (top middle)
• Rain Jacket

Because I had no plans to use the Peak Design backpack as my daypack, my purse/tote became a catch-all for purse-y things as well as anything I wanted easy access to on travel days (eg: under the seat in front of me while in flight). This included:

• Laptop and charger
• Business cards
• Video recording tools (selfie-stick and microphone)
• E-reader
• Vitamins (see how I stay healthy on the road)
• Zero waste kit
  
  

Overall Experience: Peak Design Travel Backpack

Considering I started off the trip really not wanting to like the Peak Design backpack (given my love of the Knack Pack), I returned from the trip liking it very much. 

But I’ll reiterate, this is not a true “one bag travel” contender, given that the compressed size is still too large to be a daypack.

What it is, is a great carry-on backpack with flexibility to be a smaller bag, a regular backpack, or an expanded gear-hauler. 

That said, be careful of the weight. At 4.5 pounds, it’s a good deal heavier than the other carry-on backpacks I recommend in this post, specifically the 45L Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 at 3.8 pounds and the Osprey Porter 46 at 3.4 pounds. 

But, if you compare it to the weight of my favourite carry-on rolling case (the Pacsafe EXP21 Wheeled Carryon – since discontinued) at 7 pounds, suddenly Peak Designs doesn’t look too bad, and it has a bit more packing volume as well. 

If you travel full-time or long-term with carry-on luggage only, the Peak Design Travel Backpack could be a contender for your home on the road. (Just pack a packable daypack inside, cuz you won’t likely want to use this Click here for a comparison of the top packable daypacks so you can find the best one for you). 

Shop for your Peak Design gear here. 

3. Serious Contender for One Bag Travel: Standard Luggage Travel Backpack & Versatile Packing Cubes

Their website does it justice, but even I didn’t truly understand how awesome the Standard Luggage travel backpack and its nifty features (like multi-functional packing cubes, floating laptop sleeve and more) were until I got my hands on mine. In fact, I was so excited, I turned on the camera and went live. (You’ll see that video below).

Standard Luggage combines the best of the backpacks above and makes one bag travel truly possible. Here are a few of the features I adore:

It’s Expandable. Not as much as the Knack Pack (which has 16 litres of expansion space to a max of 46 litres), and in fact it’s the same as Peak Design, expanding from 35-45 litres.

Multiple Ways to Carry. The top and side handles are strong and feel good in your hand. The padded backpack straps zip away and the hip belt detaches entirely if you don’t want to bring it along. All the straps are adjustable (6 points of adjustability), and the back of the pack is both padded and ventilated to keep you cool.
And the shoulder strap has a really nice touch with neoprene for a considerably more comfortable carry than most shoulder straps allow.

Lockable Zippers. Both main compartments can be locked; an important security feature.

Rain Cover Included. The material of this travel backpack is water resistant and durable, but if you’re stuck in a downpour, Standard Luggage has you covered (literally). This is especially important given that in the name of one bag travel, this bag will be holding important things like your electronics. And they don’t like water.

Floating Neoprene Laptop Sleeve. Here’s where this backpack really starts to shine. The neoprene sleeve that holds your laptop and/or tablet is designed to slide in and out of your pack to make pulling out your electronics at airport security a breeze. It also detaches in case you want to put your bag in the overhead compartment and carry on your laptop (in the sleeve) by hand.
And – this is what blew my mind – the sleeve is actually suspended inside the pack. This is a really thoughtful extra layer of protection against breakage in case the bag is dropped or gets banged around.

Just Enough Pockets. I’m like Goldilocks. If the Knack Pack had too many pockets and Peak Design had too few, then Standard Luggage got it just right. Enough pockets to access and organize things easily, but not so many that I lose stuff in it.

But The Multi-Functional Packing Cubes Blew My Mind

Here’s where it gets crazy, and ultimately why I decided I wanted to feature Standard Luggage here.

Carry on travel in general, and One Bag Travel in particular is all about making judicious packing choices and making sure everything is multifunctional. PJs that double as workout gear. Shoes and clothes that serve multiple scenarios from hiking to attending conferences. A dress that doubles as a coffee maker (haven’t found one yet, but I’m looking).

And in my opinion, Standard Luggage’s packing cubes are what makes it stand apart from the competition.

They are sold separately from the pack itself, so you don’t need to get them (but you really do). In addition to the fact that they are designed to fit perfectly into the backpack, here are some nifty features:

One of my favourite packing tools when I’m traveling with checked luggage was the Rolo; a hanging wardrobe that rolls up and compresses for packing into your luggage. I loved it because unpacking is as easy as unrolling it and hanging it up. But the Rolo has since been discontinued. Standard Luggage makes the packing cube equivalent of the Rolo.

The three separate packing cubes are unassuming enough. They’re made of a nice material, have a strong (ie: won’t stretch out with time) mesh front so you can see what’s inside, and there’s a smaller pocket on the back to separate clean from dirty laundry, carry underwear, etc.

When you arrive at your destination, simply attach the three packing cubes together using the strong velcro, and use the loop to hang your newly transformed travel wardrobe wherever you want.

Standard Luggage already had my heart at “travel wardrobe”. But they clinched their top spot as my favourite carry on backpack for one bag travel with the fourth and final packing cube (pictured above). It’s a packing cube that is also a packable daypack.

The Knack Pack has admirable expansion abilities, which is intended to allow you to use it as a daypack while compressed and expand it on travel days to get all your stuff from A to B. But it’s still a large bag at 30 litres (which means it’s not always an ideal daypack at my destination).

And Peak Design is extremely high quality, rugged, and thoughtful in design. But it doesn’t even pretend to be small enough to be used as a daypack. Sure, it expands and compresses, but who wants to carry around a 35L pack to hold their sunglasses, some granola bars, and tablet?

Thank you for listening, Standard Luggage.
Their Backpack Packing Cube is 8 Litres, which is enough to hold your camera, jacket, water bottle, and more. There’s not much to the inside from an organizational perspective, but it does have a pocket to keep something like a tablet separate and easily accessible. The separate lined pocket at the bottom is perfect for a water bottle or even a small pair of shoes.

The straps are minimalistic, but at 8L you won’t be able to pack so much stuff in it that it’s heavy. You’ll have room for just enough stuff to be fully functional to get around town at your destination.

Thus, with a packing cube that doubles as a packable daypack, Standard Luggage truly understands what One Bag Travel is, and how to get you to – and around – your destination with nothing more than one bag.

Standard Luggage Carry-On Travel Backpack Specs

Pack Dimensions (L(height)xWxD): Expanded 21.5” x 13.5” x 9.5”;
Compressed 21.5” x 13.5” x 7.5”

Volume: Expanded – 45 Litres; Compressed – 35 Litres

Weight: 3.7 pounds (1.68kg)

• Laptop pocket: Fits 15.6″ laptops and 15″ MacBook Pro
• Tablet pocket: Fits 10″ tablets
• Made of 1680 denier high tenacity ballistic nylon
• Water resistant, durable, and easy to clean
• YKK brand buckles & zips & buckles
• ITW Nexus sternum strap
• Lifetime Warranty and Satisfaction Guarantee
  
  

Watch me Salivate.

Don’t take my measured words for it. you can actually watch me salivate over my next trip in this video which I filmed live after receiving Standard’s full monty:

Or click here to watch this video on my (most excellent) YouTube channel.

2023 UPDATE: Although I did these one-bag travel test trips, for the most part I travel for months at a time and one bag travel isn’t practical for my needs.
So, I tend to travel with carry-on luggage (that goes in the overhead bin) PLUS a personal item backpack that fits under the seat in front of me.

On my last three trips (5 months, 2 months, and 4 months), I have tried out the following luggage:
* Osprey Daylite Wheeled Carry on Duffel (handy because it has backpack straps as well as wheels, though I detached the straps to maximize luggage space on my trip).
* Level8 Grace EXT expandable hard shell spinner carry-on case – this was my first foray into the world of hardshell spinner luggage.

For my personal item, I took either one of these:
* Peak Design Everyday Totepack (you can watch my video review of it here, and see what I pack into it here)
* Knack Bags Series 2 Medium expandable backpack, which is a wee bit bigger than the Peak Design Everyday Totepack when expanded and I adore the flexibility of the expansion capabilities. You can watch me go through it here.

How To Pack For One Bag Travel 

When packing for one-bag travel, the key is to be as organized and efficient as possible. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Make a list of all the items you need and stick to it.

Some of the essential travel items are:

• Clothes
• Toiletries
• Documents (i.e., passport, driver’s license, etc.)
• Electronics
• Medicine/First Aid Kit
• Phone Charger & Accessories
• Cash/Currency
• Snacks & Water Bottle
• Sunglasses and Hat
• Shoes

Check out this video which will help you develop the perfect packing list for your next trip.

Use packing cubes or folders to keep your stuff neat and organized.

Packing cubes and folders are invaluable tools for one-bag travel. It allows you to organize your belongings in a more efficient manner and makes packing much easier. Packing cubes can be made from a variety of materials such as nylon, polyester, mesh, and more.

They come in different sizes so you can choose the ones that best suit your needs. Folders are also great for organizing items such as documents or electronics. You can even use them to store smaller items such as earphones or charging cables.

Check out this post for a list of the best packing cubes on the market.

And click here for a summary of other travel accessories that will help you pack smart.

Roll up clothes instead of folding them to save on space and prevent wrinkles.

Rolling clothes instead of folding them when going on a one-bag travel trip is a great way to save on space and prevent wrinkles. This technique allows you to fit more items in your bag without having to worry about them taking up too much room or getting wrinkled during the journey.

To start, lay out multiple items flat on the bed and roll them up tightly together. Once done, place the rolled items into your backpack in an orderly fashion.

Wear heavier clothes while traveling instead of packing them.

When traveling with one bag, wearing heavier items such as coats or sweaters is a great way to save space and weight in your bag. These types of items are usually bulky and can take up a lot of room when folded. By wearing them, you can avoid having to pack them and save valuable space for other essentials.

Pack multi-purpose items that can serve multiple purposes during the trip

When packing for one-bag travel, it’s important to include versatile items that can serve different purposes throughout the journey. Multi-purpose items such as a scarf that doubles as a blanket or a shirt that can be used for swimming are great examples of this. Not only do they save space in your bag, but they also offer a lot of versatility.

Make use of outside compartments for quick access.

When packing for one-bag travel, it is important to make use of the outside compartments of your bag. This will allow you to quickly access items such as snacks or travel documents without having to dig through the entire contents of the bag. Utilizing the outer pockets of your backpack can also help keep valuable items such as your passport or wallet safe and secure.

Use a compression bag for bulky items.

Compression bags are essential items to have when traveling with one bag; they are great for compressing bulky items such as winter jackets and sweaters. Compression bags not only save a lot of space in your bag, but they also provide an added level of protection and help keep the contents of your bag secure. (I mentioned the Hoboroll a few times in my packing lists above; it’s my absolute fav tool for organizing and compressing my stuff for travel).

Frequently Asked Questions About One Bag Travel

Now that you know what to look for in a one-bag travel bag and how to pack for one-bag travel, here are some frequently asked questions about this type of travel:

Q. What is one bag travel?

A. One bag travel is a minimalist packing approach that emphasizes travelers bringing only the essential items for their journey. This type of travel eliminates the need for multiple bags and instead relies on one single bag that can fit all the necessary items needed for the trip. It is designed to be lightweight, portable and easily stowed away when not in use.

Q. What size bag can I travel with one bag?

A. The size of the bag for one-bag travel depends on the type of trip you’re taking and your personal preferences. Generally, it is recommended to use a medium-sized carry-on backpack for most trips. A bag that is about 20” x 13” x 9” or smaller meets most airline requirements for carry-on luggage and can easily fit a few days’ worths of clothing.

Q. How do you travel the world with one bag?

A. Traveling the world with one bag requires planning, research and organization to make sure all essential items are packed in a way that is compact and easy to transport. It is important to only bring items that are necessary for the trip and to make use of multi-purpose items wherever possible. Additionally, rolling items instead of folding them and using compression bags can help save valuable space in the bag.

Q. Can I bring 1 carry-on and a backpack?

A. Yes, you can bring 1 carry-on and a backpack when traveling with one bag. Many airlines allow passengers to bring 1 carry-on item (such as a suitcase) plus 1 personal item (such as a laptop bag or small backpack). As long as the combined dimensions of both items meet the requirements set by the airline, you should be able to bring them both on board.

Do you have any experience with one-bag travel? Any luggage or packing recommendations?Please share in the comments! 

You Might Also Be Interested In:

The Ultimate Packing List for Long-Term Travel

Pro Packing Hacks: These are the Best Travel Accessories

Backpacks vs. Rolling Luggage

The Best Anti-Theft Bags and Backpacks

This post The Best Carry On Backpack For One Bag Travel appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

When traveling the world or embarking on a long-term travel adventure, there are some essential items you’ll need to pack in order to have a successful trip. It’s different for each and every one – so what works for one person, might not work for another. But there’s a formula for what you’ll need to bring on your trip, whether it’s for a week, a month, or even a year or longer.

I first wrote about this in 2010, and since then my “hobo essentials” have changed and morphed many times over. In October 2019 I re-composed this entire travel packing list and surrounding content.

I now keep this post up to date with the latest and greatest travel bits and bobs that I hit the road with…every time! It’s the perfect template of travel bag contents so you can create your own ultimate pack list. 

See also: Pro Packing Hacks – Here are the Best Travel Accessories for Saving Space and Organizing Your Stuff

Check out my special Amazon Storefront with specially curated travel gear that I use all the time! 

Travel Kit Contents: This is the Real Deal

This is – quite literally – exactly what I pack for my full-time and long-term travels. There are a few minor differences in colour or style (some things I own are older or newer), and in a couple of cases I’ve gone with a very close approximation (since I may have bought that scarf from a Nepalese lady in a market). Your own packing list for vacation will vary according to your personal style and preferences; consider this your travel packing list template. 

In the description next to each of the items in this post, you’ll learn why I travel with that item, tips and tricks for using it effectively, and a link so you can get more information and see where to buy it yourself.

Note that many of the links below are affiliate links; if you click through and make a purchase, I will earn a (deplorable, but noteworthy) commission. This is how I make my living, and can spend all the time I do providing posts like these to help you travel. I thank you in advance for your support! 

Use this travel packing list as a guide for developing your own ultimate packing list, for vacation, a long-term trip, or lifestyle travel. The truth is, once you have a certain amount of basics, you can travel for as long as you want with it. The beauty of having versatile clothing and items is that you can pack light and still have everything you need for an extended period of time.

FELLAS: Don’t get overwhelmed by “little black dress” recommendations. Aside from clothing and some toiletries, you’ll get lots of use from this packing list.
For wardrobe choices, check out the Best Travel Clothes for Men, my Merino Wool travel guide, and also Unbound Merino and Aviator’s collection of merino wool tops and travel-friendly pants.

Packing Tips Before You Travel

Let us first start with the most basic and important item on your travel packing checklist: your documents. This is especially critical if you’re traveling internationally, but even if you’re staying within your own country, it’s always good to have all of your documents in order.

See also: Essential Things to Do Before You Travel

Insurance

First on the list is travel insurance. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have good travel insurance when you’re on the road. Travel insurance will protect you in case of an emergency, whether it’s a medical situation, lost luggage, or even trip cancellation.

Travel insurance can be obtained through your credit card company, travel agent, or directly from an insurance provider. I always recommend getting travel insurance directly from an insurance provider. This way, you know that you’re getting a policy that is specifically designed for travelers and that will cover you in case of an emergency.

There are many different types of travel insurance policies available, so make sure to read the fine print and choose a policy that suits your needs. Start with this travel insurance guide that includes a glossary and some specific recommendations.

Passport

If you’re traveling internationally, you will need a passport. A passport is a document that proves your identity and citizenship and allows you to travel to foreign countries. If you don’t have a passport, you can apply for one at your local post office or through the Passport Office.

Make sure to check the expiration date on your passport and make sure it is valid for at least six months after your planned return date. Also, be sure to check the visa requirements of the countries you are visiting and make sure you have the necessary visas.

Visa

A visa is a document that allows you to enter a foreign country for a specific period of time. Visas are required for most countries, and the requirements vary from country to country.

There are two main types of visas: tourist visas and business visas. Tourist visas are usually valid for a shorter period of time, while business visas are typically valid for a longer period of time.

Always make sure to double-check the visa requirements of the country you are visiting and make sure you have the correct type of visa.

Flight Tickets

Flight tickets are your proof of travel and allow you to board your plane. It is crucial that you have your flight tickets with you when you travel.

If you’re traveling on an international flight, make sure to have your passport and visa with you when you check in for your flight.

Lodging Confirmation

If you have booked a hotel, hostel, or other types of lodging in advance, be sure to bring your confirmation with you. This will help to ensure that you get the room you booked and that there are no problems with your reservation.

Now that you have the most basic needs covered, let’s move on to what luggage and packing tools you’ll need for your trip.

Time to Pack my Bags! Here’s the Ultimate Packing List for Travel

Here’s my international travel packing list in all its glory…..keep reading below to learn how I reduce this to carry-on size only, along with a few clarifying notes and packing information. When it’s time to pack my bags, this travel checklist is exactly what I use.

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Vacation Packing List: Luggage and Packing Tools

One of the most important aspects of packing is choosing the right luggage and packing tools. There are many different types of luggage to choose from, so it’s important to find one that suits your needs.

Carry-on luggage should be small enough to fit in the overhead compartment of the plane and should have a weight limit of around 10-15 kg. Checked luggage is larger and can weigh up to 30 kg (though most airlines allow something closer to 20kg for free).

Here’s a list of luggage and packing tools that I highly recommended and that will make packing a breeze.

WHEELED BACKPACK – If you are not aware of it yet, a wheeled travel backpack is an amazing travel packing tool. It is rolling luggage, but with backpack straps that allow you to carry it when rolling isn’t practical or possible, making it the best of both worlds. 

For checked-size wheeled backpacks, the Osprey Farpoint (for men), and Osprey Fairview (for women) is perfect for the items on this trip packing list. It’s 65 litres, and has the added benefit of some zip-away backpack straps for when rolling isn’t practical. (Here’s why that’s great). Here are the features I look for in my checked luggage: soft-sided, rugged wheels, durable lockable zippers. This luggage has all that…and more. NOTE: It is not carry-on sized.
If you need something larger, check out the Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Travel Pack 80L/28″ (though something as big and heavy as this will be a bear to wear on your back, so use the straps only when you must. In general I implore you to find a way to pack LESS; you can thank me later).

When I’m traveling with carry-on luggage only, I use the Osprey Daylite Carryon Wheeled Duffel 40L, which is small enough to adhere to most international carry on standards and has some ingenious backpack straps that don’t take away from valuable carry-on packing space).

2026 Update: Osprey keeps changing and updating their lineup, so I haven’t provided direct links to their stuff here. Simply click this link to get to Osprey, then click Travel, then Luggage to find the perfect option for you.

If you prefer hard-shell spinner luggage (checked or carry-on size), I recommend the Textured Collection by Level8. The material is ultralight and scratch-resistant, the wheels are super quiet and ridiculously smooth, and the built-in TSA combo locks are fun. If you need a bit more space in a carry-on, the Level8 Grace EXT Expandable rolling carry-on with separate laptop pocket is amazing. Available only on Amazon, here.

See also: Checked vs. Carry On Luggage, and How to Choose What You Need

HOBOROLL (SEGSAC TRAVELER) – The Hoboroll has been a long-time friend and useful packing/travel companion. It organizes all my little stuff (like underwear, socks, scarves, workout gear, etc) and compresses it to fit gracefully into my luggage. And it’s ultralight so it doesn’t add weight while saving lots of space.

Note: The Hoboroll is currently being redesigned and re-released in 2026! Stay tuned.

PACKABLE TRAVEL BACKPACK – This is one of my favourite pieces of travel kit. It’s a day pack that packs down to the size of a tennis ball (in some cases smaller, actually). The backpack is perfect for carrying around your essentials while exploring a new city or going on a day hike. Here’s a breakdown of the top ultralight packable daypacks for you to consider.

PURSE, WALLET, DAYPACK – I cannot stress enough how important it is to invest in a good-quality purse, wallet, and daypack. A cheap purse will fall apart after just a few months of use, and a poorly made wallet can be a pickpocket’s dream come true.

Your daypack, purse, and wallet choices boil down to personal preference and needs. At the very least, look for RFID protection in your wallet. Having a purse/daypack that is water resistant and tamper-proof also helps. 

Pacsafe makes great secure travel-friendly and stylish bags – I own a few purses and daypacks made by them and can attest to their quality. My Pacsafe daypack of choice is the Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack. It can be worn as a backpack or carried as a tote, has all kinds of organizational and security features, and is made of recycled materials!
For people who want something smaller and more purse-like, I am currently digging the Pacsafe W Anti-Theft 3-in-1 Sling, which is more purse than sling. It can be worn/used three ways: as a purse, sling, and clutch. The material and hardware is such that it blends in to any scenario, casual and dressy alike.

While I think Pacsafe has the best range of options, I recently tested the Everyday Totepack by Peak Design, which I think has its merits and is a sleek unisex look with some incredible organizational features.

My current favourite unisex backpack that I use as my personal item is the Knack Packs S2 Medium sized expandable backpack. The ability to expand from 24L to 35L makes this backpack incredibly versatile for all travel needs. The only tradeoff is that it doesn’t have the same anti-theft features as Pacsafe.  

See also: Best Anti-Theft Bags and Accessories, and Tips for Keeping Your Stuff Secure

Vacation Packing List: Clothing

Now, let us move on to one of the most important aspects of packing – clothes. The number of clothes you take with you will, of course, depend on the climate of your destination and the duration of your trip. For instance, if you are going to a tropical country for two weeks, you won’t need to pack as many clothes as someone who is going to Europe for six months.

As a general rule of thumb, I would recommend packing clothes that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. For example, a neutral-colored top can be worn with a skirt, shorts, or pants. Denim is also very versatile and can be dressed up or down.

I’m obviously skewing this trip packing list towards women (since this is exactly what I travel with), but men can translate the basic idea to fit their own needs. 

2026 UPDATE: In 2023, I did a 3-month carry-on only trip through Europe in summer with a 100% Merino Wool Travel Capsule Wardrobe. It worked a charm! Here’s why you might want to consider doing the same. To this day, the majority of my travel clothes continue to be made of merino wool.

Here is a basic formula that you can use as a packing guide:

2 PAIRS OF (FULL-LENGTH) PANTS – Two pairs of pants are all you’ll need, if you’re also bringing the stuff below.

If you are dead set on jeans, I get it. They may not be quick-dry or lightweight, but they’re jeans and they work in a lot of scenarios. For the best jeans that have travel friendly properties, check out Aviator. I have a few styles, but their Fly Straight style is actually as comfortable as leggings (without looking like them).

Fellas, unless you really want to pack dresses and leggings, you  might just want to take three pairs of pants. (See also: Best Travel Clothes for Men).

My absolute must-haves are Anatomie’s Kate Cargo Pants and Luisa Skinny Jeans. Together, they take up WAY less space and weight of one pair of “regular” jeans. If you have sticker shock, click here to learn why it’s actually worth it. 

Clicking the links in this article will give you 20% off site wide at Anatomie! Discount automatically applies at checkout.

1 PAIR LEGGINGS – Multifunctional pants such as yoga pants or leggings can be worn both as pants and as pajamas, and as an underlayer for extra warmth. They are also great for working out, hiking, or simply lounging around the house. I am utterly in love with Unbound Merino’s leggings – first off they’re made of merino wool which has a thousand travel-friendly properties. In addition, they’re comfy, durable, flattering, and the hidden zipper pocket helps keeps a few things secure while you’re on the go.

1 PAIR CAPRI PANTS or SHORTS – Capri pants or shorts are perfect for hot weather and can be dressed up or down. Go with a pair of either – or both – as you like (I find capri pants to be more versatile, but these shorts from Unbound Merino also pack up super light and small). 

“LITTLE BLACK DRESS” – Every girl needs the perfect “little black dress”! Here’s what to look for in a travel dress: lightweight and short sleeved (you can add layers for cooler climates), wrinkle-free, dark colour, classic style. I actually own two dresses, but if you want to keep your pack light, one will do.
My current fav ultimate travel dress is made by Unbound Merino. It’s simple, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down with belts, jackets, and accessories.

2 TANK TOPS – Regardless of climate, tank tops are invaluable as shirts (duh), Pjs, workout wear, and underlayers. I like to have 2-3 tank tops on hand, and I replace them as needed. If you want a high-quality and super duper comfy one, check out Anatomie’s Jackson Pima Cotton Tank, or Unbound Merino’s ribbed tank.

1-2 LONG SLEEVED SHIRTS – Assuming you’ll be traveling through different climates, a long-sleeved shirt is a must. Look for something that is good on its own, can be layered for extra warmth, and has enough style to take you from hiking the mountainside to relaxing at the cafe.
Men have tons of long-sleeved options at Unbound Merino, from button downs, to Henley’s, to pullovers, and more.

CARDIGAN (SUGGESTION: CHRYSALIS CARDI MULTI-FUNCTIONAL CARDIGAN/DRESS/SCARF) – I had the Chrysalis Cardi (pictured above) for over 6 years and got a ton of use out of it! It’s super versatile, ridiculously comfortable, and can be worn a million ways, from scarf to dress to shawl. A great extra layer to have on hand.
If this doesn’t float your boat (or if you’re a fella), check out Aviator’s hoodies. Their zip-up First Class Hoodie has travel-friendly features like a hood that doubles as a sleep mask, mitten-cuffs, and zip up pockets.

LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET – I have a couple of light-to-medium weight jackets (which is partly why I tend to travel with checked luggage). But if you want to pack light you only need one, and if I had to choose, I’d choose the Kenya Safari Jacket (by Anatomie) for its versatility, style, and comfort. Here are Anatomie’s lightweight jackets.

Clicking the links in this article will give you 20% off site wide at Anatomie! Discount automatically applies at checkout.

PACKABLE WATERPROOF RAIN JACKET – You need a waterproof layer that can fold up into nothing. You can use it on its own in warm climates, and over layers in cool climates. Jack Wolfskin makes the best one I’ve ever tried: the JWP Shell (since replaced by the Elsberg 2.5L) is waterproof, windproof, breathable, comfortable, and the world’s first fully recycled jacket.

Sadly JackWolfskin no longer sells in North America. But if you search whatever outdoor retailer you prefer for packable rain jackets, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

DOWN JACKET (Amazon) – There are plenty of packable down jacket options on Amazon. Look for styles that pack down very small, but keep you warm. It’s wind proof and water resistant. I’ve worn it on cool nights in temperate climates and on mountaineering expeditions alike. I consider it essential travel gear. 

For a fresh take on the down jacket, have you considered alpaca? My current cold-weather jacket for travel is the Mayu Ultralight Jacket by PAKA (made for women and men). It has an even better warmth-to-weight ratio than down, and is ethically sourced and produced. PAKA is an incredible company that is making a huge impact on families and communities in Peru where they operate. I fully support their initiative and I own jackets, shirts, and socks made by them.

Note: The rain jacket and the down jacket above can be worn separately, but also together for an additional level of protection against cold/weather. It’s like having three jackets in two. Here’s a video I made to explain the concept.

UNDERWEAR – I have around 5 pairs of underwear; synthetic materials are notoriously easy to dry, so bring fewer pairs and wash more often as a rule. (I usually stock up at La Senza when I can).

BRAS – One or two bras should be enough. Look for support, a good fit, and most of all, comfort. I buy relatively high-quality bras since I wear them daily and they need to last.

SPORTS BRA – If you are actively participating in extracurricular activities while traveling, you might want to consider packing a sports bra. I use my sports bra for working out, and for active expeditions such as long hikes.

SOCKS – 3-5 pairs of socks will do, depending on the climates you’ll be traveling through. I also have at least 1 pair of high-quality merino wool socks (Amazon or PAKA) for hiking.

ALSO: Don’t forget compression socks! I wear them every single time I fly, to reduce/eliminate the risk of swollen feet, and more importantly life-threatening DVT. My friend Sherry designed these travel-themed merino wool compression socks from VIM&VIGR, which are the best I’ve ever owned! Use THEPROFESSIONALHOBO for a 15% discount off anything on the site.

PJs – If you are staying in communal dwellings or in other people’s homes, it’s prudent to have something to sleep in (and make nighttime bathroom runs in). So comfort is paramount; but also something that you can be seen in (if not downtown, then at least downstairs).

BATHING SUIT – 1-2 bathing suits will do (depending on how much you like to swim/sun); bikinis have the added benefit of doubling as emergency bras/underwear! 

SCARF (FOR STYLE & WARMTH) – A warm scarf takes the edge off cool or cold days, is easily layered and accessorized, and can be used to wrap up fragile items (like external hard drives) while traveling. I like to buy scarves on the road; they’re the perfect wearable souvenir!
If you want a high-quality scarf that will last a lifetime, check out the super-popular Ovcio Featherlite cashmere scarf. I hesitated to get it for a long time because of the cost, but I can’t deny that it’s fashionable, crazy-soft, surprisingly warm (given how thin it is), and versatile.

WARM HAT – Choose a low-profile, lightweight, easily packable hat that you can chuck on in cool climates. It also doubles as a packing-aid to pad fragile items.

Vacation Packing List: Footwear

Your choice of footwear can make or break your trip. They’re important for comfort, function, and style. But also, they need to be multi-functional otherwise you’ll be hauling around too much weight. Here’s what I travel with: 

SANDALS – It’s important to be selective when it comes to choosing the right travel sandals. I could write an entire post about my specific choice of sandals and what makes for the best travel sandals. Wait a minute: I did! You must read this before you buy/select your next pair of sandals for travel. 

VIVAIA – Vivaia makes sustainable washable footwear that is incredibly comfortable, folds up and packs extremely well, and looks incredible. I get compliments every single time I wear them, they’re both casual and dressy, and they’ve replaced my walking/casual shoes below.  I have five pairs of Vivaia shoes (they don’t all come with me on every trip; I pick and choose based on where I’m going and what I’m doing). Check them out in this video I made.

WALKING/CASUAL SHOES (OPTIONAL) – These are optional, depending on your personal style and the climate you are traveling in. (You could just get a decent pair of shoes that fit the below description for hiking and wear those everywhere).

2023 Update: I have found the perfect combination of the above casual walking shoes with the below hiking shoes in the Xero Prio! They’re not as hardcore in the hiking department as some of their dedicated hikers, but they suffice for most trails. They’re also great for exercising, and snappy enough to wear around town as you would any pair of runners. They’re ultralight, super flexible, and ridiculously comfy.

HIKING SHOES (NOT BOOTS) – Who needs hiking boots! They take up too much room and weight and are clunky as hell.
I’m all about barefoot trail shoes, and in my experience they work 10x better than hiking boots! They’re ultralight, squishable, water-resistant, breathable, lightweight, and easy to pack.
My first pair of hiking shoes were Vivobarefoot Trail Shoes – which lasted seven years and hundreds of mountain trails. But when they wore out, I discovered there were other barefoot shoes out there at better price points.
So I got a pair of Xero Terraflex shoes, which are light, comfortable, and super-duper-grippy. They don’t carry the Terraflex any more; instead you have a choice between the Mesa Trail or the Scrambler models. If you want ankle support, Xero also makes barefoot hiking boots.  Xero allows you to shop for shoes by type: simply click on Hiking and pick your poison. Shop at Xero Shoes here.

Not sure about using barefoot trail shoes in place of hiking boots? Watch this video which explains why I love them 100 times more!

CHEAP FLIP FLOPS – Not only are flip-flops commonly fashionable, but they are also highly functional. A cheap pair of flip-flops can serve many purposes: You can use them as indoor shoes/slippers, in dodgy showers, and even around many places in Asia where you are required to leave your shoes outside before entering temples and some businesses (and your expensive shoes will surely walk away without you). Flip-flops are light and easily packable; trust me you will find uses for them.

Vacation Packing List: Toiletries

This toiletries list you bring on your trip will depend entirely on what you need and prefer. You’ll see from the toiletries list below that I’m a raving fan of Lush products, since they’re natural, long-lasting, and mostly solid (which is infinitely easier for packing). One shampoo bar lasts me 6+ months. Use this toiletries list as a guide for your own selection of toiletries: 

ULTRALIGHT HANGING TOILETRY BAG (Sea to Summit, Amazon) – A good toiletry organizer makes packing and unpacking ridiculously easy, and keeps everything organized at my destination. Bonus points if it can hang anywhere and has pockets for organization. (Here’s a video review I made).
2025 update: If you want more space or organization in your toiletry bag, check out Tripped Travel Gear. It’s my current toiletry bag of choice.

TRAVEL TOWEL (Amazon) – A small, super-absorbent, quick-dry travel towel is one of my most useful pieces of gear.

FACE WASH – Looking after your skin is more important than ever when traveling. Different climates can be incredibly harsh on your skin.

MOISTURIZER – Jojoba oil is a great multi-purpose moisturizer. I use it mostly for my face, and a few drops will do, so it lasts forever.

SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER BARS – The more solid toiletries you own, the less messy disasters and carry-on tribulations you’ll endure. I adore Kitsch solid shampoos and conditioners – I’ve tried a lot and they work the best (and smell awesome). And little goes a long way – they last upwards of 6 months. Use NORA for a 25% discount!

RAZOR – Get a razor with replaceable blades; they last longer, do a better job, and pack smaller. Go with a popular name like Gillette; you stand a better chance of finding replacement blades abroad.

HAIR TIES – If you have unruly hair these are a must! They can be really handy when the weather gets especially hot or humid and you want to get your hair up and out of the way.

TOOTHBRUSH – You can bring any ol’ toothbrush you like, but I love the Philips One by Sonicare rechargeable electric toothbrush. It’s super slim, comes with a travel case, and only needs a charge every month or two with a USB-C charge cord.

TOOTHBRUSH COVER – Looking for an easy way to keep your toothbrush clean and protected? These lightweight best-selling toothbrush covers ensure your toothbrush is kept clean wherever it’s stashed. Made from lightweight materials, they’re easy to include in any international travel packing list – so you can rest assured knowing your toothbrush is always fresh and bacteria-free. 

TOOTHPASTE (TOOTHY TABS) – I like to use Lush’s Toothy Tabs, since they’re solid, take up almost no space, and just half a tab will do so they last a while. Here are some alternatives on Amazon (I’ve tried the Hello brand and it’s pretty good).

NATURAL FLOSS – I sometimes go years before I am in a good place to have my teeth checked/cleaned by a dentist (Chiang Mai is my preference), so I’m a sucker for good personal dental hygiene, of which dental floss is an essential part. 

DEODORANT (SALT CRYSTAL) – This wee little crystal deodorant stick easily lasts 6+ months. In addition, it is free of harmful chemicals often found in traditional deodorants. Plus, its solid form makes it light and easy to pack into your vacation checklist when traveling.  

EXFOLIATING WASHCLOTH – You get a great exfoliation, and a little soap (solid or liquid) goes a long way. The easy-to-hang tab makes it perfect for hanging in the shower or anywhere else, and it dries quickly so you don’t have to worry about mold or mildew build-up.

SOAP – You can usually collect little bars of soap along the way. I like to use natural soap when I have the chance, and Dr. Bronner’s makes some great (liquid and bar) soaps. The bars go a long way, and can be used for many things including hand-washing laundry; just get a container for it for easy transport and use.

NAIL CLIPPERS – I like the large sturdy toenail clippers, that also have a built-in file.

TWEEZERS – A good pair of tweezers is not only great for cosmetic purposes, but can be quite versatile for many unexpected uses!

MENSTRUAL CUP – These take some getting used to, but believe me it’s worth the effort. You’ll save the cost and hassle of carrying tampons/pads, there’s no waste, and you can wear them for longer times (ca-ching! Can you say long rides on buses?)

MAKEUP – My makeup kit is very small. I have an eyeshadow stick of some sort, a couple of shades of eyeliner, and mascara.

BLEMISH STICK – I get zits, and when I do, they’re usually epic. So I use Burt’s Bees herbal blemish stick to get them under some semblance of control.

Medicine/Supplements

I carry a small baggie with over-the-counter meds to get me through just about anything. I also take vitamins and supplements to keep my immune system in top working order – at the very least I take a probiotic and multi-vitamin when I travel. Learn more about that here: How to Stay Healthy While Traveling. 

ALLERGY MEDS – I never know when I’m going to be staying with animals I’m allergic to, so I’ve usually got allergy medication on hand. A few different blister packs in a ziploc bag doesn’t take up much space or weight.

PAIN KILLERS – From menstrual pain to migraines, pain killers are life-savers in a pinch. A few different blister packs in a ziploc bag doesn’t take up much space and can be easily thrown into a weekend trip packing list.

ANTIBIOTIC CREAM – From nasty insect bites to cuts that just won’t heal, a good antibiotic cream can help the healing process and prevent infections. So I made sure to include it in my travel essentials list!

OIL OF OREGANO – I like to have these on hand to take when I feel illness coming on; oil of oregano is a great natural immune-booster.

TURMERIC – Turmeric is one of nature’s most potent antibiotics, without killing your natural (good) gut bacteria the way prescription antibiotics do. Also good for inflammation. You needn’t use capsules either; you can mix powdered turmeric and honey, or use fresh turmeric (where available). 

Vacation Packing List: Electronics

Your specific choice of electronics depends on what you do on the road. Digital nomads will have more sophisticated technology requirements; as will professional photographers again. Here’s what I take:

LAPTOP – I live by my laptop, as it is the conduit to my location independent career. Thus I need something that is light, small, has a long battery life, and solid-state storage (which can take the hard knocks of travel better). For me, the winner is the MacBook Air with a souped-up ram and processor.

LAPTOP STAND – I initially balked at the extra space and weight required for this (and the accoutrements below to go with it), but after too many years of slouching in front of my laptop, I got this portable lightweight laptop stand to raise the screen to eye level. Neck pain: be gone!

FOLDABLE WIRELESS KEYBOARD WITH TOUCHPAD – With my laptop screen raised to eye level with my Roost stand, the next step to creating an ergonomically friendly workspace is this wireless keyboard/touchpad combo. I have tried a few different keyboards and touchpads, and this one is by far the best. The keys work great, it’s full size, it folds up for travel brilliantly, and the touchpad is compatible with all devices (including Macs).

WIRELESS EARBUDS – I’m not a big fan of noise-canceling headphones; some travelers swear by them. For me, they take up too much space and I don’t like to tune out my surroundings like that. But earbuds don’t tend to stay put in my ear – I’m always adjusting them! Not these pretties. They fit over the ear and stay put no matter what you’re doing. The sound is incredible, and it’s the best bang for your buck.

LAPTOP SLEEVE/CASE – I like extra laptop protection in a padded case that also has a pocket pockets for miscellaneous bits. InCase makes excellent laptop accessories. Through all my years of owning laptops, I’ve also owned InCase sleeves and bags.

SMARTPHONE – My phone is also my camera. I like to say I have the kind of camera that also makes phone calls. If you’re buying a new phone, make sure it’s unlocked so you have the greatest amount of choice for how to use it abroad.

Cell Phone Travel Basics: International Phone Plans, SIM Cards, and More will tell you everything else you need to know about using your phone while traveling.

PORTABLE EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE – A portable external hard drive is essential for computer backups, as well as storing extras like photos or movies that may not fit on your computer’s hard drive. I have this Silicon Power Rugged Shockproof model for extra durability.

KINDLE E-READER – I love my Kindle! It holds an arsenal of books (which are impractical to carry in paperback while traveling), and the Paperwhite version of the Kindle is great for reading in any environment with an adjustable internal light. And the battery life is exponentially better than the Kindle Fire and other tablets. Even though it’s small and practical to carry around, you can still store a lot of books on it- which comes in handy when planning trips!

ALL-IN-ONE POWER STRIP/EXTENSION CORD/SURGE PROTECTOR/TRAVEL ADAPTOR/USB CHARGER – I absolutely adore this puppy, and it comes with me on every trip, no exceptions. It’s a compact extension cord (since room layouts aren’t always great for working and charging stuff), has two outlets that you can plug any type of plug into, four USB charging points, and it has surge protection. It’s literally one of my favourite pieces of travel gear and when I’m packing for travel – checked or carry-on – it always comes with me. 

Vacation Packing List: Extras

Almost done packing! Now that we’ve pretty much covered the essentials you need for traveling, let’s move on to some final tidbits that will make your trip go smoothly and comfortably. 

Note: You can’t bring it all! Pick and choose the things that will serve you best on each trip.

SUNGLASSES – In the first few years I cycled through multiple pairs of cheap sunglasses. Finally I invested in super-thin travel-friendly Polarized sunglasses from ThinOptics . I first bought the Menlo Park style, then they sent me the Mountain View which I never thought I could pull off but are now my favs. For either style, go for the green lenses! They’re the perfect balance of sun protection without being too dark, and the world looks terrific through them. They look and feel great and polarized lenses make all the difference. Plus, the case is so thin it fits anywhere.

TRAVEL READING GLASSES – If you’re of a certain age, you’ll also need some readers! I have keychain readers by ThinOptics, which ingeniously fold up into a case that attaches to any keychain. They have a variety of ultra thin readers if the keychain style doesn’t float your boat.

SUN HAT – The main characteristic you need in a sun hat is something light, preferably made of a material that will keep your head cool as well as sheltering you from the sun. Bonus points for something that squishes into your luggage and comes out looking great.

EXERCISE BANDS – I exercise almost every day on the road, made possible by my exercise bands. They’re light and easy to pack, and help me to get a total body workout with various resistance exercises.

TRAVEL YOGA MAT – Travel yoga mats come in many formats, some of which are very thin roll and fold up very small. Obviously this can only come with me when I travel with checked luggage!

PLASTIC DOCUMENT HOLDERS – There’s always a few official documents you’ll need to have with you, in addition to copies of your passport and other ID. Store them in compact plastic folders to keep them safe, organized, and protected from the elements.

HEADLAMP (Amazon) – This is an awesome piece of kit. Not only great for camping and backcountry trips, but it’s great for finding your way to the bathroom in yet another new place, providing light when there’s no power, and lighting the way when your day-hike goes long. The headlamp strap is crucial for hands free work. I personally own that is USB-rechargeable, and has a hands-free activation option. 

STERIPEN ULTRA – If the water is questionable, a SteriPEN is crucial! Stop wasting plastic by buying bottled water; the SteriPEN makes any (clear) water drinkable in 60 seconds. This model is great because it fits any sized bottle top, and is USB rechargeable. But….a SteriPEN isn’t infallible. Click here to learn about all your options for drinking clean water abroad. 

COLLAPSIBLE WATER BOTTLE (Amazon) – I always have a reusable water bottle on hand, and this collapsible version is lightweight and rolls up when empty. It also has a really nice opening for drinking without spilling water down your chin!

COLLAPSIBLE TRAVEL MUG – The latest addition to my Zero Waste Travel kit, I love this collapsible travel mug so much more than my Contigo, because it’s so ultralight and easy to carry! I have no excuse to ever order coffee in a paper cup again. IN ADDITION to my collapsible water bottle and travel mug, I also have collapsible tupperware and reusable cutlery.
Click here to learn more about how I eliminate all single-use waste when I travel. 

MINI SEWING KIT – You can sometimes find awesome mini-sewing kits in hotel rooms; until then, this is a good one to go with. Essential for repairing clothes along the way. And it’s the size of a credit card and pre-threaded. Can’t lose! 

SMALL SCISSORS – Although these small scissors are usually called “nail scissors”, I find them to be a handy multi-purpose scissor that (almost) always clears carry-on security, just in case you’re going carry-on only.

Congratulations! You made it to the end of this ultimate packing list for full-time travel and long-term travel. Now that you know what to pack, don’t forget to print out this list or save it somewhere safe so you can reference it next time you’re packing for a trip! If you want to see me pack these items and learn more about my specific choices of gear, watch this video!

How I Turn This Into a Carry On Travel Packing List

This full travel packing checklist is not carry-on friendly. I check a wheeled case on flights (it weighs about 15kg), and I carry on my purse and daypack containing my electronics, a scarf for warmth/blanket needs, and anything else I’d need immediately if my luggage went on a round-the-world tour without me.

Learn more about why I prefer checked luggage for super long-term trips here. 

When I am able leave my big suitcase somewhere (like a home base) and travel from there for a while, then I reduce this load to carry-on size. My first two carry-on only trips were about three months each; one was while sailing the Caribbean and the other was house-sitting in Switzerland. 

I remember one fateful carry-on trip when I left my base in Grenada to spend a few months house-sitting in Panama. Unfortunately life got in the way of my best-laid plans, and I never returned to Grenada and the rest of my stuff there. After that happened, I ended up traveling for two whole years with carry-on luggage only! If you want to see what I used to pack, check out The Ultimate Carry-On Packing List. 

Packing for Travel With Carry-On Only

When it’s packing time for a carry-on trip, obviously I don’t take as much stuff with me as I would with a full suitcase travel packing list; I reduce my wardrobe to a few items that will satisfy the climate and culture of my destination, and everything is colour-coordinated so I can mix and match at will. This reduces bulk quite a bit.

I also reduce my toiletries list down to the essentials for the amount of time I’m traveling. (Because I like some specialty toiletry products, I tend to stock up a bit when I have my full suitcase). 

Lastly, I usually leave behind some or all the following (depending on the trip):

• Headlamp
• Yoga mat
• Travel Towel
• Checked Luggage (obviously)
• Hiking Shoes (I bring the Xero Oswego or Xero Speed Force that takes care of walking around town, working out, and hiking).

Here are some tips for a smart and light packing guide, especially suitable for carry on travel: 

Digital Nomad Packing List – Electronics

Any good digital nomad packing list is going to have a fair few electronics. (Check out this post, where a panel of professional travelers reveal what electronics they pack for their unique combo of travel and work: Electronic Travel Gear – Travel Experts Reveal What’s in Their Bags). 

Remember that with every piece of electronic gear, there’s an accompanying entourage of cables and adaptors. The things I immediately need are in my laptop case, and the rest is usually contained in a nondescript light waterproof bag (dollar store stuff; nothing fancy).

Vacation Packing List: Occasional Extras

If I’m in one place for a while, I often buy an inexpensive item or two locally to complement my wardrobe (eg: stylish shoes, or warmer layers). I never spend much on them, and I usually give them away when I leave. The general rule is: if it can’t replace something in my bag, it can’t come with me!

Now that you have the ultimate travel packing list, you’re ready to tackle any trip. No matter where your adventure takes you, be sure to pack smart and enjoy the ride!

Down the Rabbit Hole…

I’ve written full reviews of some of the items you see in my packing list. If you’d like more information, check these out:

Travel Bag List

Luggage is one of my favourite topics, and I’ve tried just about every kind out there. Here’s a breakdown of my travel bag list: 

Checked vs. Carry-On Luggage (and Why Checked is Best)

The Best Carry-on Backpack for One Bag Travel

Pro Packing Hacks – Here are the Best Travel Accessories to make your travels a breeze

Wheeled Backpacks: Why They’re the Best, and Tips for Buying One

Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel: Wheeled Backpacks vs Rolling Luggage

Best Anti-Theft Luggage, Daypacks, Purses, Slings, Wallets, etc.

Travel Wardrobe 

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Wrinkle-Free Travel Clothes for Women

Anatomie Travel Clothing Made Me Throw Out My Jeans 

My Search for the Perfect Travel Sandal

Best Traveling Clothes for Men (including a solid case for merino wool)

Miscellaneous Travel Gear and Clothes

Every year, I publish an annual roundup of my new favourite pieces of travel gear. There’s just too much to list here! Have a look for yourself, and click on what interests you. 

My Zero Waste Kit for Travel (and Home)

This post The Ultimate Packing List for Full-Time Travel and Long-Term Travel appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

Here are the pros and cons of checked vs. carry-on luggage, along with some criteria to help you make the best decision for your own travel needs.

THE CASE FOR CARRY-ON LUGGAGE

Oh, to gallivant around the world without a care, and just a light bag that never leaves your side. To enjoy the freedom of being able to handle anything your travels throw at you, without the weight of the world (or at least, a checked bag) holding you back.

Here are some of the benefits of traveling with carry-on luggage:

It’s Stress Free. No more worries about whether your checked bag made it on the same plane as you; it’s a sure thing.

Faster Airport Arrivals. You’re golden once you’ve cleared customs and immigration. I once clocked 15 minutes from the plane landing in a new country to my walking out of the terminal.

Moving Around Isn’t a Hassle. Changing accommodation/location frequently? Walking your stuff a little further than you thought? Navigating a cobblestone street? No problemo. Packing up is easy (since there’s not much to pack, after-all), and your carry-on luggage is light enough that you can carry it over rough terrain/stairs/etc with ease, even if it doesn’t have backpack straps.

In my first 12 years of full-time travel when I had no official home base, I did two standalone trips with carry-on luggage, before ditching my checked luggage for good and spending the next two years living out of a carry on case: I spent three months sailing the Caribbean, living on five boats spanning three countries. To do so with a 20kg checked bag would have been a nightmare. The other was a sponsored trip through Europe where I traipsed through eight countries in three weeks; traveling at that pace would have been miserable with a lot of stuff in tow.

Packing is Simple. Even if your carry-on luggage is chock-a-block, there’s still just not that much to pack. Hence, the process is quicker and easier.
(See also: Pro Packing Hacks – These are the Best Travel Accessories)

You’ll Save on Checked Luggage Fees. With airlines separating out more and more fees (like meals, seat selections, and bags), you can save a few bucks by not having to pay for a checked bag.

Best Scenarios for Carry-On Luggage

You’re Going Somewhere Warm. Hot, preferably. The lighter your clothing requirements, the more packing options you have.

Fixed-Length (Short) Trips. I’ve packed for trips as long as five months with carry-on luggage only. Having said that, I’d suggest the ideal carry-on trip length would be one month or less.

It’s a Busy Trip. The more you have to pack up and move from one destination to another, the better you’ll appreciate traveling light.

Best Carry-On Luggage Types

With increasingly stringent airline carry-on luggage restrictions, the lighter your bags, the better. Here are some specific luggage types and suggestions:

Wheeled Luggage

I prefer wheeled luggage in general; I’m spared of back pain, wear-and-tear on my clothing (from hauling on and off a backpack all the time), and call me vain, but I simply prefer the image of rolling luggage vs. backpacks. While some people might argue that wheeled luggage is impractical over rough terrain (like cobblestone or dirt roads), being carry-on sized, it’s light enough to carry by the side handles when necessary.

WHEELED CARRY-ON LUGGAGE SUGGESTIONS

My own carry-on travels have been made pleasurable by the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP21 Anti-Theft Wheeled Carry-On, which I absolutely adore to this day. It’s lightweight, has all kinds of awesome security features, and has super sturdy wheels for rolling all over the place. I’ve had it for 10 years and it’s still going strong.

2023 NOTE: Tragically, supply chain issues forced Pacsafe to discontinue their lineup of anti-theft rolling luggage.
While mine is still going strong, I’ve also tried the Osprey Daylite Carryon Wheeled Duffel 40L. While it’s not anti-theft in the same way as Pacsafe, Osprey makes excellent bags and luggage and I stand by the brand.

In the meantime, I’ve been dabbling with hard-shell spinner luggage; specifically the Grace EXT 20″ expandable rolling carry-on by Level8, available exclusively on Amazon, here.

Here’s why I adore Pacsafe, with a deeper exploration of various anti-theft features they offer.

Keep reading for a section further down dedicated to hard-shell spinner luggage, and my recommendations therein.

Backpacks

I’m not a backpack girl for many reasons (which I outline here). But if you’re going to travel with a backpack, a carry-on backpack makes the most sense. They’re generally the most lightweight form of luggage you can find, allowing you to allocate the most weight and space for your stuff. Aim for a 40 litre (or so) backpack, which will give you the most space while adhering to (most) carry-on luggage rules.

CARRY-ON BACKPACK SUGGESTIONS

The Osprey Porter 46 is the largest carry-on backpack you’ll likely find at 46L. (In fact it’s so large that it doesn’t always qualify as carry-on, depending on the airline).

Osprey makes solid luggage and is particularly adept in the backpack department.

Shop for the Osprey Porter 46 at Osprey or Amazon.

For something a little smaller, and massively popular amongst my carry-on travel colleagues, check out the Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack. People love it for its versatility, organizational features, and harness comfort (with multiple sizes to choose from, depending on your own size/stature).
Buy on Osprey or Amazon.

Women will appreciate the almost-identical Osprey Fairview 40 Carry-On Travel Pack with a suspension system built for ladies.
Get it from Osprey or Amazon.

Personally, I love Pacsafe, and would consider the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Backpack for its security features (like slashproof material and tamperproof lockable zips), its light weight, and great amount of space. It also has a front pocket with lots of organization power, and Pacsafe’s signature locking cord so you can lock the bag to a secure fixture.

Get your Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 backpack at Pacsafe.

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And, new to this list as of June 2019, is the Knack Pack expandable backpack. What makes it a super-cool carry-on backpack is that it is expandable – the idea being that there’s plenty of space while you’re in transit with all your stuff. The magic happens when you arrive and unpack your things; the Knack Pack zips down and becomes a day bag. This is part of the “One Bag Travel” movement, which I will be writing about in more detail in the coming months. 

Knack Pack sent me their Large Expandable Pack for free to try out. At its smallest it’s 30 litres and can fit under the seat in front of you in airplanes. Fully expanded, it’s 45 litres and measures 21.5″ x 14″ x 9.5″ – which fits most carry-on guidelines. It’s made of water-resistant material and has about a gazillion organizational features. 

My biggest complaint might be somebody else’s complement; that there’s too many pockets and slots and zippered sections. The first few times I used it I kept forgetting where I stashed stuff! Also, without lockable zippers, I won’t keep anything of value in the front pockets presumably made for things like cards, keys, and passports – with the pack on my back it would be waaaay too easy for somebody to unzip and take my stuff without my noticing. But as a woman that’s not a huge issue anyway, because I don’t ever leave home without my purse (into which such things go). 

For a day pack, the large size is…well, large. Although 30 litres is a good size for a daypack, because of the dimensions, it feels large on my small(ish) frame. I since got their Series 2 Medium Expandable Pack, which expands from 24 litres to 35 litres.  The Medium pack would be ideal for short trips and one bag travel adventures. That said, I used the Large pack for a week-long trip, and it’s a good size. 

Confused? Join the club. I created a video walking you through both packs and comparing them. Watch it here!

CARRY-ON WHEELED BACKPACK SUGGESTIONS

I adore wheeled backpacks and have traveled with a few different ones over the years. (See also: Wheeled Backpacks: Why They’re the Best, and Tips for Buying One).

But I would generally shy away from wheeled backpacks of the carry-on ilk, simply because the combination of both wheels and straps comes at a cost of weight and space, which is vital when traveling ultralight.

Having said that, Osprey has (in my opinion) the best carry-on wheeled backpack on the market with the Daylite Carryon Wheeled Duffel 40L. It has all the great packing and design features you’d expect of Osprey, and the backpack straps are designed so they don’t take up valuable packing space – and you wear them on the front of the pack which is much more comfortable than the hard back of the pack. That said, there’s no hip belt so don’t plan on carrying it for anything more than short distances.
Shop for the Daylite Carry on at Osprey.

CARRY-ON LUGGAGE: THE DARK SIDE

While carry-on travelers sing the praises of ultralight travel (almost evangelically so – I know, I’m still one of them), it also has many drawbacks, some of which might be insurmountable depending on your travel style or trip at hand. Let the carry on vs checked bag debate begin. 

Your Wardrobe Will be Extremely Limited. You won’t have an outfit for any occasion; and will likely be perpetually over-dressed or under-dressed. Buying clothes at each destination to suit the circumstances/climate (and getting rid of them before you leave) can be expensive and impractical.

Winter? Forget It. My carry-on packing list got me through three seasons (barely); the sheer bulk of my very limited selection of cool weather clothing made it difficult. Packing for winter climates as well would have been impossible.

Constant Hand Washing. With a limited wardrobe, be prepared to wash your clothes in the bathroom sink all the time. This can get tricky if you’re moving around often and your stuff doesn’t dry easily overnight. If you’re staying in communal quarters, good luck finding somewhere to modestly dry your undies.

You Might Have to Check it Anyway. General airline carry-on luggage dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (roughly 55 x 35 x 23 cm), but some airlines are much smaller. Other airlines are stingy on weight, some allowing carry-on luggage to be only 5 kg (11 lbs)!

And don’t think the airlines will let it slip if you’re a hair over in weight or size. I once took a flight where the check-in agents didn’t check the size or weight of anybody’s carry-on luggage if they were checking a bag, but they meticulously weighed and sized up all the bags for people flying with carry-on luggage only. I watched a couple forced to check their carry-on luggage, frantically pulling out their laptops and other items inappropriate for the cargo hold, and having to carry it all in a plastic shopping bag for the rest of their trip. And for this inconvenience, they also had to pay (top price no less) to check their bags at the last minute.

There May Not be Room in the Overhead Bins. Depending on when you board, and how many other people have bulky carry-on luggage, you might be out of luck. Sometimes the gate attendants will nail you before you even board; if too many people have carry-on luggage only (which is common on domestic flights), they’ll go around the waiting room and tag your bag to be checked at the gate, whether you like it or not.

You Might Still Have to Pay. Some airlines are getting cheeky and not only charging for carry-on luggage, but charging even more than for checked luggage. They’re doing a great job of capitalizing on the popularity of carry-on travel.

Long Layovers Suck. Although carry-on luggage is a delight compared to schlepping checked luggage around outside of the airport, toting your carry-on bags around the airport before your flight and during long layovers is not fun. One ill-fated nine hour layover in a poorly laid out airport gave me back pain for a week.

Souvenirs? Think Again. While limiting the things you can buy might be great for tight budgets, sometimes you really want that special something to commemorate your travels. You’ll be outta luck unless you’re prepared to throw something out to make room. Which, to be honest, is also a bit wasteful.

THE CASE FOR CHECKED LUGGAGE

Taking into account the dark side of carry-on travel as outlined above already creates most of my case for traveling with checked luggage. It ultimately depends on you, your travel style, and trip requirements. Here are some general benefits of checked luggage:

No Stress at Check-In. When I traveled with carry-on luggage, I always worried that the check-in agent would deem my bag too big or too heavy. Once, when flying with Ryan Air in Europe, in the middle of a horrendous heat wave no less, I had to wear all my heaviest clothes and hiking shoes for an agonizing flight, all so my carry on luggage could stay within the limits. With increasingly stringent carry-on restrictions, stress at check-in will only increase with time.

Bring What You Want. You don’t have to pack your checked bag to the seams; simply having the option to pack whatever you want and/or to get a few extras along the way makes your trip more civilized, and less an exercise in stingy discipline.

As a full-time traveler, this is the biggest reason I reverted back to checked luggage. While I was in Asia renting apartments with kitchenettes, I carried a small espresso maker with me to make my morning routine a delight. When I was in South America doing shaman-things, I had space for all my shamanic accoutrements. I also like to have specialized nutritional supplements, which take up space. So no matter where I go, I have room in my luggage for a few extras (adding either comfort or aesthetic value) that make each place I visit feel a bit more like home. (And for a professionally homeless person, this has great value over the long run).

Packing is Easier. Although heaving my 18kg checked luggage up a flight of stairs isn’t exactly pleasurable, at least I don’t have to worry about playing tetris while packing a maxed out carry-on bag. I can use all the organizational packing tools I wish without worrying about the extra bit of space or weight they take up. This makes packing and unpacking (something you do a lot on the road) a dream.

Lost Luggage is on the Decrease. While it only takes one incident to make you reconsider ever checking your bag again, stats indicate that the chances your bag will be misplaced have drastically reduced. According to SITA Baggage Reports, cases of lost luggage are down 70% over the last 10 years, despite global passenger volumes being at record highs.

Best Scenarios for Travel With Checked Luggage

You Travel Full-Time. If everything you own has to fit into your luggage, going with carry-on will involve sacrificing either comfort, style, or versatility (or a bit of all three). Why bother? If travel is your lifestyle, consider just that: it’s your life.

You’re Traveling Through Multiple Climates, Including/Especially Winter. Taking a winter trip on its own practically necessitates checked luggage; going from snow to beaches requires even more luggage space.

You Want to Get Souvenirs. If you’re taking a trip of fixed duration and want to bring back some gifts or souvenirs, you’ll have the space with checked luggage. Alternately, you can bring an extra bag to check full of goodies on the way home.

You Travel With a Lot of Electronics. Would you check your laptop or expensive camera? Probably not. Digital nomads in particular are renowned for their electronic requirements; photographers have it the worst with multiple cameras and lenses, and even drones. In these cases, traveling with just carry-on is near to impossible.

You’re a Gear Head. If you participate in any kind of specialized sport or activity requiring “gear”, you’d better bring along a checked bag. Some types of gear aren’t even allowable on-board.

Best Types of Checked Bags

While some travelers swear by their giant backpacks, I don’t. So by the process of elimination, I won’t recommend any here. (I speak from experience; click here to see the various backpacks I initially started traveling full-time with, and why I don’t think they make sense).

Okay, then. On with the various checked luggage types I do recommend:

Wheeled Backpack

The wheeled backpack is the best of both worlds, and was the first form of luggage I actually enjoyed traveling with. However beware: you won’t want to take it hiking in the countryside. Think of a wheeled backpack as rolling luggage that you can put on your back when you need to. You can reduce the discomfort of using straps by getting a model with a padded hip belt, and pay attention to the construction of the bottom part of the pack, so it doesn’t dig into your back/hips.

CHECKED WHEELED BACKPACK SUGGESTIONS

For a checkable wheeled backpack, look no further than Osprey’s big brother to their 36L wheeled backpacks:
The Fairview Wheeled Travel Pack 65 for women (only available at Osprey), and the Farpoint Wheeled Travel Pack 65 for men (available at Osprey and Amazon).

Designed with all the high-quality bells and whistles that Osprey is known for, these packs are also compatible with Osprey’s Daylite pack series so you can attach your daypack to the front of your case to make it way easier for carrying on your back. (I personally refuse to wear a backpack on my back and another one on my front, so these details are important to me).

Rolling Luggage

For a few years, I consistently traveled with checked rolling luggage. Ever since my shamanic escapades, and having a home base that I thought was “for good” in Peru (a couple of years before setting up a “for real home base” in Toronto), I started to insist on having a few extras that meant my checked bag weighed in at 18-19kg. (Remember, that was pretty much everything I owned).

It was a little too heavy to wear on my back, so I compensated with indestructible wheels that I abused over gravel, dirt roads and cobblestones. But more often than not, if I had any choice in the matter, I minimized actual travel time with my luggage in tow, and paid extra to travel from door-to-door with it. I have a packable large daypack for shorter/side trips.

(See also: What and How to Pack for Long-Term Travel, with a Video of What I Look For in Luggage, How I Pack, and What I Pack)

CHECKED ROLLING LUGGAGE SUGGESTIONS

I own the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior 29, which has since been discontinued. In fact, Eagle Creek has changed their whole lineup so dramatically, I wouldn’t know where to start in making recommendations, however the closest approximation to what I had would be the Caldera Wheeled Duffel, though I’m also intrigued by the Tarmac XE lineup.

However if I were in the market to buy checked rolling luggage today, I would pick up the Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 60L.
It has a lot of the same features; it’s soft-sided, high-tech, incredibly rugged and durable, and still lightweight (only 6.4 lbs!). (Click here to learn why I prefer soft-sided luggage). And because it’s soft-sided, I don’t have to pack it to capacity to keep everything from bouncing around inside; the handy compression straps keep everything together. I watched a friend of mine pack it with about half as much stuff (he planned to fill the bag with other things along the way) and the compression straps worked wonders. You wouldn’t be able to do that with hard-sided luggage.

And the wheels and chassis can handle all kinds of terrain including gravel roads and mountainous terrain. My Eagle Creek luggage has similar wheels and I threw everything at it, including a 4 km (4 km!) walk on a crappy dirt road in India (not one of my happiest moments), and it’s still going strong.

What about Hard-Shell Luggage with Spinner Wheels?

Unlike most people I see in airports, I didn’t initially jump on spinner luggage or hard-shell luggage bandwagons.

So in 2022, when Level8 sent me a couple of their lightweight carry-on luggage with spinner wheels to try out, I figured it was time to see what all the fuss has been about.

Level8 makes both carry-on and checked luggage in multiple sizes. Here are some features of all their luggage:

• It’s made with aerospace-grade ultralight hardshell material for maximum protection of your stuff.
• The have TSA-approved combination locks built in.
• Their 360 degree spinners are designed to be ultra-quiet and anti-shock.
• The interiors are fully-lined with dividers and zippered pockets.
  

I personally like the Level8 Textured Collection (in both checked and carryon sizes) because the hardshell has a texture that protects it from scratches which can happen all too easily, especially if you’re checking it in. (And unlike the picture here, it comes in a rainbow of colour options.)

But carry-on warriors will appreciate their Road Runner Carry-on because it has a separate pocket for a laptop and other miscellaneous items, which can be handy if you don’t travel with your laptop in a separate daypack.

Not sure whether the Textured Carry-on or Road Runner will be best for you? I go through both in this video:

And for the best of both worlds (carry-on luggage with an anti-scratch exterior plus a separate laptop pocket AND expansion capabilities), then check out the Grace EXT Carry on Luggage lineup, available exclusively on Amazon.

Here’s what I’ve discovered about hardshell spinner luggage:

Pros of Spinner Luggage

• Dramatically easier to roll on smooth surfaces.
• You can still tilt and roll on two wheels when the terrain is rougher.
• Luggage doesn’t tip over the way it can with awkwardly-packed 2-wheel luggage.
• Easy to slip your daypack over the telescoping luggage handle using a pass-thru strap and transport both as one (this isn’t so easy with soft-shell and/or 2-wheeled luggage).
• Spinner wheels are just plain cool!

Cons of Spinner Luggage

• The wheels aren’t quite as bombproof as the wheels on a lot of 2-wheel models, which often have a tread and are made of rubber. This makes rolling on uneven terrain like dirt/gravel/cobblestones easier (and quieter).
• Spinner wheels almost always stick out from the luggage which reduces the packing capacity of the luggage. (The wheels on 2-wheel luggage are usually inset).
  
  

Pros of Hardshell Luggage

• Better protection for your stuff. (At least in theory; I’m not totally convinced – I think they’re about equal at the end of the day).
• Because it opens clamshell-style into two halves, it’s easier to see and organize your stuff within the case. (Versus soft-shell which has one big space.)
• It looks cool.

Cons of Hardshell Luggage

• If you don’t pack it full, your stuff will bounce around in the luggage. (This problem is partially solved with flaps that hold the contents in each half of the luggage).
• No room for overpacking. For better or worse, soft-shell luggage has a bit more leeway if you want to take a few extra things home from your trip.
• You can’t access the content’s on the go. The only way to get into hardshell luggage is to lay it down and open it up completely. This is both awkward and a huge inconvenience if you just want to pull out a jacket.
• It takes up a larger footprint. Again, because the only way to open it is to lay it down and open it completely, you need twice as much space as soft-shell luggage, which only has a flap that opens and peels back.
• While not universally the case, hardshell luggage tends to be a bit heavier.
• Bulkier to store when not in use.
  

As you can see, I have not seen the light regarding hardshell luggage. Perhaps with more time and use on the road this will change. But I also know I’m in the minority for not being a huge fan, so if you’re in the market for hardshell luggage, I suggest you take a peek at what Level8 Cases has to offer.

And get 10% off with discount code Nora10!

Don’t Forget This Crucial Luggage Accessory

Whether traveling with checked or carry-on luggage, I insist on having a packable daypack that I can take on mountain adventures, or grocery-shopping missions alike. Here are my criteria:

• Waterproof (or at least water resistant)
• Comfortable straps
• Ultralight and easy to pack into my luggage
• Sturdy material on the bottom for durability and use
• One or two drink pockets on the outside (optional but ideal)

I have been using a variety of packable daypacks solidly for over 12 years. They’re perfect for day trips, grocery shopping, day hikes, weekend excursions, and more.

Want to know what I’ve learned in that time (without all the trial and error)? Then check out my article comparing the top packable daypacks on the market.

FAQ

Should I check a bag to Europe?

Ultimately it depends on your trip, but my short answer is no – if possible, it is best to travel to Europe with carry-on luggage only. The challenge for Europe in particular, is that usually when people visit Europe, they move around a bit. And Europe is a fantastic area of the world to explore overland by train or bus. 

But, between the Cobblestone streets, and train stations, which often involve some steep steps to get on and off the trains or buses, hauling around heavy luggage is no fun. 

Should I check my bag or carry on?

If you have carry-on sized luggage, you may still be wondering whether it’s worthwhile to lug it around the airport with you versus checking it in. This is a personal decision that depends on how fragile the contents of your carryon luggage are, how much time you have to wait for your luggage to arrive on the carousel at your destination, and more.

It also depends on the weight of your luggage and the airline’s carry on rules. Some airlines have particularly low weight limitations (eg: 7kg) with no provision to allow you to purchase additional weight. Other airlines restrict the size of carry on luggage to personal item bags only. In these instances, it is best to check your bag.

Want More?

I love writing about this stuff. Evidence:

The Ultimate Packing List for Full-Time Travel

Wheeled Backpacks: Why They’re the Best and Tips for Buying One

Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel – Backpacks vs. Rolling Luggage

Pro Packing Hacks – Here are the Best Travel Accessories for Organization and Saving Space

Travel Packing: What and How to Pack

The Best Travel Clothes for Men (+ 4 Items From Western Rise You Won’t be Able to Live Without)

Lastly, take a look at what I pack, and how, here! (Click here to watch on YouTube)

This post Checked vs. Carry-On Luggage: Which is Best? appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

Don't be me. 

I started traveling with all the worst stuff. 

I wasted a fortune.

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Travel packing is an exercise in creativity and selectivity. I’ve often said that anything worthy of a place in my luggage needs to be multifunctional. Like, a dress that also makes coffee. (I haven’t found one of those yet, but I’m still looking).

This article and video were originally created in 2016. But the principles still apply, and I regularly keep this resource fully updated.

There are many secrets to the art of travel packing, which, to be honest, I couldn’t possibly cover in one go. I realized I was in over my head as soon as I started shooting this month’s vlog episode on the topic. Where do I start? Item choice? Colour matching? Ultralight travel packing techniques? Footwear hacks? The best gear? How to carry electronics? What goes into carry-on luggage?

The list goes on.

So, in this video, I started at the beginning. My travel packing techniques have changed and evolved 10 times over since I began my full-time travels in 2007. When I recently had to pack my stuff up to change locations, I took the opportunity to turn the camera on and bear all, to show you how – and what – I pack.

These days, I travel with a lot more stuff than I used to, when everything I owned fit seductively into a carry-on bag. Now, I’m back to using checked luggage, but in some ways it’s not so bad. Because carry-on travel is all the rage these days, airlines are getting more and more strict about size and weight, and finding space in the overhead bins can be a challenge. So for the moment, I don’t mind checking a bag, since I’m still managing to fit everything I own into said bag. 

(See also: Checked vs. Carry-On Luggage, and Why Checked is Best)

So in this month’s vlog episode, you can learn my travel packing techniques, including what to look for in luggage, some ingenious packing tools, and more. Then, you can watch me cram all of my crap into the bag.

Check it out below!

Travel Packing 101

Click here to watch on YouTube.

Do you love packing tools as much as I do? They can help you save space, or organize your stuff, or (if you’re really lucky) BOTH.
Here are the best Pro Packing Hacks and Travel Tools.

To see what goes into my bag and why, check out
The Ultimate Packing List for Full-Time Travel.

Are you a Travel Gear head like me? Then check out my gear archives to learn about the best (and worst) travel gear out there. 

This post Travel Packing: How (and What) to Pack for Full-Time Travel (Video) appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

When a Backpack is the Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel

I started traveling full-time with a backpack, before getting a different backpack, before deciding I hate backpacks. (Read here to find out why I hate backpacks).

Despite my seething dislike for backpacks, they are suitable for long-term travel:

• If you like to go hiking/camping on backcountry trips
• If you walk a lot with your bag (instead of just going from the airport to accommodation and leaving it there)
• If you travel in places with really rough terrain where wheeled luggage is useless, you’ll need a hiking backpack.
• You travel with carry-on luggage only, so at least the backpack won’t be ridiculously heavy.
• If you’re young and eager and haven’t discovered back pain yet
  
  

2023 Update: The Best Backpack for Travel

While I’m not much of a fan of backpacks for travel, I’ll also admit I had all the wrong kinds of backpacks. I used backpacks meant for backcountry camping trips, not for travel. Also, when traveling with larger (and thus, heavier) checked-sized luggage, hauling it around on my back was downright painful at times.

Between my experience of the lack of travel utility in backcountry packs and the weight of large backpacks, it’s no wonder I don’t like them! Ha ha!

Tortuga Backpacks saw this article and took it upon themselves to change my mind about travel backpacks. So they sent me their carry-on sized Travel Backpack 40L. I recently took it on a week-long international trip, and as far as travel backpacks go, and it’s great. (My back doesn’t think so, but that’s not the fault of the bag).

But that’s just me. After looking at their website (and hearing glowing testimonials from all my backpack-wearing travel friends and colleagues), here’s why I decided Tortuga would be worth re-evaluating my backpack hate-on:

• You get the space and organization (and accessibility) of a suitcase, with the comfort of a super-technically designed strap and harness system so that it will fit you perfectly and not overly strain your back.
• It fits carry-on size requirements for most airlines and fits into the overhead bin.
• The main compartment opens up fully (just like a suitcase) so you can see everything in the pack with minimal rummaging.
• It has water bottle pockets, hip pockets, and other external pocket features to give you easy access to things you want to have handy along the way.
• The front organizer pocket has space for all kinds of nik-naks, including a padded sleeve for e-readers.
• Your laptop and tablet are kept at the back of the pack (which is more secure – nobody is getting in there without you knowing) in special padded sleeves.
• The material is waterproof, and the zippers are water-resistant and lockable.
• It’s made from recycled polyester, saving 25 water bottles from landfills PLUS more than 1.25lbs of CO2.
• You can try it on at home for free, and if it doesn’t work for you, they’ll take it back (and pay for shipping).

Tortuga offers their (newly designed) Travel Backpacks in 30L and 40L sizes. Here’s how they compare. When I first landed on their site, I got a bit overwhelmed at the various packs and sizes they have available. If that’s you, check out their bag finder quiz to figure out which pack is best for you (be it a carry on travel backpack, laptop bag, or daypack).

I’m not sure Tortuga Backpacks has the power to convert me from a roll-aboard girl back to a backpack girl when it comes to my long-term travel trips, but for short excursions and outdoorsy adventures, it’s a sturdy, thoughtfully designed, well-made backpack. And I will say the waterproof exterior saved my skin (or rather, my stuff!) when I got caught in an unexpected downpour.

When a Wheeled Backpack is the Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel

When I discovered wheeled backpacks, I was in heaven. As a “recovering backpacker” I still had an umbilical need for straps, but also a burning desire for wheels. In the ensuing years, I wheeled my way through two-wheeled backpacks; the High Sierra Overpass  (which has been discontinued) and the Osprey Sojourn 60L (which was recently redesigned). I also suggest checking out the Osprey Fairview/Farpoint family of Wheeled Travel Packs.
I LOVED my wheeled backpacks.

Curiously, however, I rarely – if ever – used the zip-away backpack straps. Why? Because just to do a flight of stairs, it was hardly worth the hassle of pulling out the straps and putting the pack on my back. More often than not the wheels worked just fine, and when they didn’t I simply carried the pack by the top and side handles until I could set it down and wheel it again. Carrying it wasn’t entirely ideal, however, since my pack weighed a good 20kgs.

I still like wheeled backpacks, and if I hadn’t made some recent changes to my travel entourage (read on), I’d still own one.

Wheeled backpacks work best for long-term travel when:

• You travel with checked luggage (as opposed to carry-on only)
• You mainly like to wheel your luggage around (ever-so-handy in airport lineups)
• You occasionally end up in places where wheeling your luggage isn’t practical and you want to strap it on your back
• You want easy access to the contents of your luggage
  
  

When Rolling Luggage (My Current Choice) is the Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel

At one point I stashed my wheeled backpack somewhere and did a few trips lasting as long as three months with my rolling-carry-on travel bag only.

Eventually I realized if I could survive for months on end (even in varying climates) with carry-on luggage only, I didn’t need the larger bag at all. Thus, I converted my full-time travel entourage to carry-on sized luggage only. It’s occasionally a wee bit stressful since there’s no room for additions, but the ease of traveling with carry-on luggage is not to be underestimated.

And more importantly, my carry-on luggage is pure and simple rolling luggage. Why don’t I need backpack straps any more? Because if and when I can’t wheel the luggage, I can simply carry it by the handle. Since it’s carry-on sized, it’s not bulky and doesn’t weigh much more than 10kgs, thus it’s easy to carry by hand. I could get a carry-on wheeled backpack, but the zip-away backpack straps use up valuable carry-on luggage space, and fitting a full-time travel wardrobe into carry-on-sized luggage is enough of an ask as it is.

My wheeled carry-on luggage of choice is the Pacsafe Toursafe 21 (since replaced by the EXP21 Anti-Theft Wheeled Carry-On) wheeled luggage which is lightweight, sturdy, has nifty security features, and some handy organizational features on the inside.

2023 NOTE: Tragically, supply chain issues forced Pacsafe to discontinue their lineup of anti-theft rolling luggage. I have left this blurb above intact in the hopes that they’ll bring it back to life, or I find some comparable anti-theft luggage to love and feature in its place; whatever happens first. Stay tuned!

In the meantime, I’ve been testing out the Osprey Daylite Carryon Wheeled Duffel 40L. While I just noted that backpack straps are unnecessary for carry-on luggage, these particular straps don’t eat up packing space in the same way, and you can detach them entirely if they’re not your speed. The bag’s overall features are very travel-friendly.

Don't be me. 

I started traveling with all the worst stuff. 

I wasted a fortune.

Instead, use this FREE travel gear and packing list cheat sheet.

Learn from my 2 decades of career travel, and kick off your trip with the best clothes, toiletries, luggage, remote work gear, and more. 

INCLUDED: Special discount codes up to 25% off! 

This will be emailed to you to download, for FREE. 

Get Instant Access

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Before making a new luggage purchase, ask yourself, does the luggage have:

• A telescoping handle
• Lockable zippers
• Zip pockets
• Is it top loading (and is that something you want)
• Does it fit in an overhead bin
• Does it have premium spinner wheels (and if it does, do they come at the expense of packing space)
  
  

Having an Extra Daypack

My carry-on luggage system wouldn’t work without my daypack, which houses my computer and other essentials that never leave my side. Most carry-on flight regulations allow for one piece of carry-on luggage (ie: my Pacsafe), plus an extra “purse/briefcase” type of bag, also known as a personal item. My daypack is that additional bag. (Although I carry a small purse as well, if I were challenged on it I could put the purse in my daypack).

This daypack is practical for outings to cafes with my computer, carrying shopping and groceries, and even for multi day treks such as the 5-day one I did in Peru. (Although realistically, if you want to do a day-trek through the mountains of Peru, leave the wheeled luggage behind, and bring along this bag instead)!

Here’s what I look for in a daypack:

• Side pockets for a water bottle
• Padded shoulder straps for comfort
• Separate compartment(s) for ease of organizing things

As an unintentional Pacsafe poster girl, my daypack for years was a 25L Pacsafe Venturesafe Daypack. I (literally) loved it to pieces. Pacsafe now offers a ton of different-sized and styled backpacks that you can check out here; personally I find 25L to be a good size and best backpack for travel.

Lately for my personal I’ve been trying out the Peak Design Everyday Totepack – which gets me compliments everywhere I go. It has some amazing pros (and a few cons); check out my video review here to see if it’ll work for you.

2023 update: I’m currently testing out (and have the highest of hopes for) the Knack Bags S2 Medium sized Expandable Backpack. With the ability to expand from 24-35L, and with a ton of organizational and security features, I suspect this will be my new fav daypack for travel.

Want to know what I pack into my daypack? Check out this video where I unpack it for you and show you all my carry-on essentials!

If you want an ultra-light packable day pack, I suggest:

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Day Pack – This multi-award-winning 20L packable day pack stuffs into its own pouch that is smaller than a tennis ball. It’s great for day-hikes, grocery shopping, and simply having an extra daypack on hand without taking up any space or weight. Here’s a video demonstration I did of the pack.

2023 Update….The Sea to Summit daypack is lightest packable backpack that packs down the smallest. But it comes up short with a lack of water bottle pockets on the sides, and no internal organization. To solve these problems, the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack comes to the rescue.

Getting confused? Join the club. Check out my comparison of the Top Packable Backpacks for Travel so you can figure out which one will be best for you.

2023 Update…

Now that I have a home base, I can pack in a strategic way for every trip I take. Even if I’m traveling for months at a time, the nature of the trip will entirely dictate what kind of luggage I use.

For example, if I know I’m going from A to B and then staying at my destination for an extended time, I might go with checked luggage so I can carry some discretionary items that will make my stay more comfortable. Or if I’m going on a long trip that will involve multiple climates and/or technical activities: again I’m likely to choose checked luggage.

But at the moment that I’m writing this update, I’m on a five-month trip and I took rolling carry-on luggage (specifically the Level8 Grace EXT expandable hardshell spinner luggage – as my first foray into hardshell spinner luggage).

Interested in some of the decisions that go into choosing checked luggage versus carry-on luggage? Let this article be your guide.

Other Travel Gear Posts

Looking for some more travel gear inspiration? Get some ideas here:

The Ultimate Packing List for Full-Time Travel (Updated to include my full checked entourage which I still use as of 2020)

Pro Packing Hacks – Here are the Best Travel Accessories for Saving Space and Organization

The Best Carry-On Backpack for One Bag Travel

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Wrinkle-Free Travel Clothes For Women

The Ultimate Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Men

My Search for the Perfect Travel Sandal

And TONS more Travel Gear features and reviews!

This post Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel: Backpacks vs Rolling Luggage appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!

Nowadays, people use backpacks for various purposes such as traveling, working, and even diaper bags. However, with so many different types of backpacks available in the market, it can be quite confusing to choose which is the right one for you.

In all of my years of full-time and long-term travel (since 2006), my backpack/suitcase/whatever has assumed the functionality of my “house” (and then some) – keeping all my possessions safe while enduring the hard knocks of travel.

I’ve lived out of a bag for about 18 years.

Or rather, a few bags.

And I’ve determined (and demonstrated by example) that wheeled backpacks are the best for travel.

It is essential to have a backpack that is both comfortable to carry and has enough space to store all your belongings while traveling. When you travel, it becomes your “house” while on the road! This is all the more reason for travelers to invest in a good quality backpack. In this article I’ll show you what to look for and how to find the perfect wheeled backpack for you.

While this post was originally published in 2012, it is constantly updated with relevant information and links. It was overhauled in 2022, and continues to be updated for accuracy of links etc.

What is a Wheeled Backpack?

It is a no-brainer that a wheeled backpack is a backpack with wheels! It has all the features of a regular backpack but with the added convenience of wheels and a handle.

There are two main types of wheeled backpacks: rolling backpacks and wheeled duffel bags.

Rolling backpacks are designed to be carried on your back like a regular backpack but with added wheels and a handle. They are great for those who want to travel light and do not want to carry their backpack on their back all the time.

Wheeled duffle bags, on the other hand, are designed to be pulled like a suitcase. They are perfect for those who are looking for more storage space as they usually have a larger capacity than rolling backpacks.

At A Glance: My Top 4 Picks for Wheeled Backpacks

Ready to meet the top 4 picks for the best-wheeled backpacks? Here they are!

1. Osprey Fairview Wheeled Travel Packs 

These wheeled backpacks are our top pick for the best-wheeled backpack. Osprey in general makes amazing gear from durable fabric with great travel-friendly features.

The Fairview line of packs is designed specifically for women so they’re ergonomically easier to carry on your back. They both come in checked luggage size (65L), and carry-on size (36L) – though I would argue that 36L may be a wee bit small if you’re traveling long-term. Osprey has larger options.

The comfortable backpack harness and hip belt stow away when you want to use the wheels and retractable handle for easy maneuverability. And there are straps on the front of the pack to which you can attach the Osprey Daylite or Fairview/Farpoint daypacks so you can wheel or carry your whole travel entourage easily and keep your hands free.

Check out the Fairview 65L Wheeled Travel Pack
and the Fairview 36L Carry-On version.

2. The Osprey Farpoint Wheeled Travel Packs 

In truth this ties for the #1 spot because the Farpoint has exactly the same features as the Fairview – except it’s designed for men.

Check out the Farpoint 65L Wheeled Travel Pack
and the Farpoint 36L Carry-On version.

2. Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT 90L Wheeled Duffel With Backpack Straps 

This wheeled duffel bag from Eagle Creek is our top pick for the best rolling duffel bag. There are tons of rolling duffel bags, but very few also have backpack straps; this one does. It is made from durable fabric and features a large main compartment with internal compression straps to keep your belongings in place. It also has a handle and rolling wheels for easy maneuverability.

Now here’s the thing. At 90L this thing is larger than I would normally recommend for long-term travel, because it will be heavy. But if you spend a lot of time in colder climates, or you have hobbies that require gear, this will be ideal for hauling everything around.

You won’t want to carry it on your back for too long however, because there’s no waist belt and anything this big is bound to be too heavy to carry comfortably with just the backpack straps. That said, when the terrain is just too inappropriate to wheel your luggage, you’ll be thankful for the straps.

Luckily they are super sturdy oversized treaded wheels. I have some ancient Eagle Creek rolling luggage with similar wheels and I’ve rolled it countless miles on gravel, cobblestones, and other non-wheel-friendly terrain. They’re still like new.

This wheeled bag has some great organizational features too, like mesh divers and easy-access zippered pockets. Overall, this is a great rolling duffel bag for those who need to carry a ton of stuff and are looking for durability, comfort, and versatility.

Get your Eagle Creek cargo hauler here.
For something a bit smaller, check out the Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Travel Pack 80L.

4. Everki Atlas rolling laptop backpack 

This rolling laptop backpack from Everki is our top pick for the best rolling laptop backpack. It is made from durable fabric and features a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve that can fit up to a 17-inch laptop. It also has a front organizational pocket and a quick-access top zippered pocket.

At 30L, you could use this as your only luggage for shorter carry-on only trips if you are a super light packer. Or, you could use this as your carry-on/daypack on longer trips with checked luggage. It has a trolley strap so you can attach it to your larger rolling luggage, and after you’ve checked it, you can use the wheels to breeze around the airport in style. The rolling wheels and retractable handle also makes this a nice thing to have at your destination, for example if you’re going to and from a coworking space.

Overall, this is a great rolling laptop backpack for those who are looking for durability, comfort, and convenience.

Check out Everki’s rolling laptop backpack here.

2023 Update: Do you like the idea of carry-on sized wheeled backpacks but the Everki is too small? I’ve used the Osprey Daylite Carryon Wheeled Duffel (40L) on trips as long as 3 months. The backpack straps aren’t designed for heavy loads but can get you through the bits where you can’t roll it. They also detach if you need more packing space.

My own journey to wheeled backpacks: I started with a backpack…

…as many budget travelers do. Something about the “backpacker” moniker that means you have to travel with a backpack. (Spoiler alert: you don’t). Actually, I started my full-time travels with my second backpack, thinking I was smart for ditching the first one. (This turned out to be a smart move, but sadly not smart enough).

My First Backpack – Lowe Alpine

My first (pre-full-time traveling) backpack was a Lowe Alpine 60-80L trekking backpack.
It was a pretty simple, bare bones deal, that I took to South Africa for a month.

There, I realized three impracticalities of this bag:

• Walking into fancy hotels with a backpack is no fun (it was a pretty swish trip).
• Accessing the contents from only the top or bottom is painful. I usually couldn’t see what I needed in the dark abyss of bag contents, and had to remove everything just to find it.
• The total lack of extra pockets or reasonable ways to segregate gear further exaggerated the above problem.
  

So I ditched the backpack…

…and bought another bag. (I still had a few lessons to learn why backpacks suck).

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I applied the above lessons by getting a day pack that had a zipper for side-access (as well as top and bottom), some extra pockets, side pockets and a padded hip belt. As for traipsing into swishy hotels with a backpack, I didn’t think my full-time travels would allow much luxury, so I conceded to the “practicality” of a backpack.

My new pack of choice was the high quality Gregory Deva.

Although this backpack was great for proper mountaineering and trips into the wilderness, it sucked for short trip travel. Or rather, it sucked for me – and I realized that I hate large backpacks in general. Here’s why:

• They kill your back. Hoisting them on and off is awkward, not comfortable to wear, and rarely graceful.
• Two words: airport lineups. You either have to wear your pack the whole time you’re in line (which can be hours), or you have to unceremoniously kick it along, two feet at a time.
• They’re incompatible with daypacks. I need a daypack to house my laptop and other carry-on essentials. So it means I’m one of those dorks with a big backpack on my back and a daypack on my front. (Sorry if you’re one of those “dorks” – but I think it looks ridiculous, and I know from experience that it’s hot and uncomfortable, and it irrefutably labels – and targets – you as a tourist).
• No matter how many zippers they add, I still couldn’t find what I needed, and regularly had to pour out all the contents to find it. (can you feel my aggravation building?)
• Rogue backpack straps and airport conveyor belts do not play well together. I was perpetually worried that my bag would be ripped to shreds (with all my precious contents) on every flight.
• Lastly, although I hadn’t anticipated luxury in my full-time travels, it has happened from time to time. I’ve received sponsorships and travel opportunities through my freelance writing career, and I just don’t like lugging a backpack. It’s a stigma. And when first impressions count I like to look professional (as any Professional Hobo should!); doing it with a backpack is an uphill battle.
  
  

How I discovered wheeled backpacks

Living and volunteering in a hostel in Kona, Hawaii was a great way to suss out gear and destinations through recommendations from the steady stream of travelers. I saw so many bags come through that place, and then one day, accompanied by a beacon of light and angel-song, I saw this:

It was love at first sight.

The news got even better when I discovered it was very inexpensive at under $200, and solved so many of my problems!

The High Sierra Overpass (unfortunately, long ago discontinued)  rolling backpack with detachable daypack changed my life because:

• The main bag opens completely up clamshell style, allowing me to easily see and access the contents.
• There are a few mesh dividers and such to help keep stuff separate.
• The zip-away straps are available for use whenever wheels are inconvenient (for example on rough terrain or when navigating a lot of stairs).
• It has a matching daypack that zips onto the main bag meaning you only have one ultimate bag to cart around (though admittedly when rolling the case I usually preferred to wear my daypack since it had my laptop in it).
• Although I was doubtful as to how much I would use the wheels (somehow I felt they’d be impractical), I ended up using them all the time. In fact, in the three years that I lived out of this bag, I used the straps….twice. Yup, twice. (Once in Spain when I had to walk for 45 minutes on a cobblestone street, and once in Malaysia when I had to walk on a non-existent road).

Given how rarely I used the backpack straps, you might wonder why I bothered getting another wheeled backpack when this one bit the dust after three years of abuse. But I have to admit, straps are still a practical feature to have in a bag, to help you get through whatever craziness your travels might throw at you.

Since these olden days of my initial discovery, wheeled backpacks have become increasingly popular among travelers. A wheeled backpack is a great option for those who want to travel light and do not want to carry their backpack on their back all the time. It also makes it easier to maneuver through crowded areas and narrow spaces.

Carry-on Travel – Wheeled Backpacks vs Regular Backpacks: Which one is Best?

If I’m traveling with carry-on luggage ONLY, I prefer to maximize space and either use rolling luggage or a backpack, but not a wheeled backpack. If I have rolling carry-on luggage and need to carry it by hand (up some stairs for example), it’s light enough that I don’t need straps.

That said, I’ve been using the Osprey Daylite Wheeled Carryon 40L, which is excellent because the backpack straps don’t take away from valuable packing space the way other wheeled carry-on backpacks do. They also detach entirely if you’re going on a trip that requires more luggage space.

Check out this post to determine which type of luggage best suits your style of travel, and then this post to select the best carry-on or checked type of bag for you). 

My next wheeled backpack: Osprey Wheeled Travel Packs

When traveling, a warranty policy is only as good as the nearest dealer, which is rarely around the corner. So when the zipper irreparably broke on my High Sierra bag while in northern Sweden, I had a week to buy another bag before immediately putting it through its paces on the Ultimate Train Challenge.

I ended up getting the Osprey Sojourn 60L. Here’s the scoop:

Although the Osprey wheeled backpack is comparable in size, it feels like it has way more space.

When I don’t pack it to the gills, the outer compression straps reduce the overall bag size.

It’s very sturdy, and feels solid.

2024 Update: Osprey has a large selection of wheeled travel packs on offer now, including not only the newly redesigned Sojourn, but also the Farpoint and Fairview lineups. Check them all out here.

Pros and Cons of Wheeled Backpacks

Pros of Wheeled Backpacks:

Are Wheeled Backpacks good? Let’s examine some advantages of wheeled backpacks

1. They are easier to carry

One of the main reasons why wheeled backpacks are becoming more popular is that they provide a much easier option to carry your backpacks. You no longer have to strain your back and shoulders all the time when carrying a wheeled backpack. All it is needed is to pull it along behind you. My compadres on the Ultimate Train Challenge were immediately enamoured with my wheeled backpack, whilst lugging their own backpacks around Europe and Asia. They both vowed to replace their packs with something similar to mine.

2. They are well organized

Wheeled backpacks are designed with compartments and pockets that allow you to organize your belongings in a better way than most regular backpacks.

3. They are more comfortable

Although a wheeled backpack is not usually as comfortable as a straight backpack without wheels, the comfort factor comes in when you can save your back and wheel it along. Look for wheeled backpacks with padded shoulder straps and backs and a hip belt to help distribute the weight.

4. They are great for traveling

Wheeled backpacks are perfect for travelers as they make it easier to move around with all your belongings. They are also great for those who are always on the go and do not have time to stop and rest. On top of that, they are easy to maneuver through crowds and narrow spaces. Also, with designs that give easy access to the contents, they’re a dream to travel and live out of.

5. They are easy to store

Because of how wheeled backpacks are designed, they are usually easy to store when not in use. Most rolling backpacks can be stored in a closet or under a bed.

6. They are durable

Durability might be the middle name of wheeled backpacks. Most wheeled backpacks are made from high-quality material that makes them more durable than regular backpacks. This means that they will last longer and will not tear easily. There are also anti-theft features that are incorporated in some wheeled backpacks, making them even more durable.

7. They are stylish

Worried about how you will look rolling around with a backpack? Don’t be! Wheeled backpacks come in different colors, designs, and styles. You can definitely find one that will suit your taste and personality.

8. They are perfect for all occasions

Whether you are going on a hike, a camping trip, or a vacation, wheeled backpacks are perfect for all occasions. Definitely the perfect companion for all your adventures.

But let us not only talk about the advantages of wheeled backpacks. Wheeled backpacks also have a few disadvantages that you should be aware of.

Cons of Wheeled Backpacks:

1. They are more expensive

The main disadvantage of wheeled backpacks is that they are usually more expensive than regular backpacks. The additional engineering that goes into a wheeled backpack will inherently make it more expensive.

2. They are heavier

Another disadvantage of wheeled backpacks is that they tend to be heavier than regular backpacks. This is because of the added features like the wheels and handle.

3. They are not good for hiking, climbing, or off-road adventures

If you are planning to go on a multi-day back-country hike, then a wheeled backpack is not the best option for you. But if you are just planning to use it for your daily commute or for travel, then a wheeled backpack would be a great option.

So if you’re a traveler who enjoys trips to the wilderness, bring along a lightweight (ideally waterproof) summit pack. It is one of my favourite pieces of travel gear.

Check out this comparison of the Top Packable Daypacks for Travel so you can choose the best one for you.

4. They are not as spacious

Some of the packing space is taken up by the wheels and the frame. This is why I don’t recommend a carry-on sized wheeled backpack if you’re going with carry-on luggage only; you’ll lose too much valuable packing space to the straps.

Interested in buying one? Here are a few tips that you need to keep in mind when purchasing a wheeled backpack.

Tips for Finding The Best Travel Backpack With Wheels for International Travel

When buying a wheeled backpack, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration, such as the type of wheels, the size of the backpack, and the price. Let us take a look at each of these factors in detail.

1. Type of Wheels

The type of wheels on the backpack is one of the most important factors that you need to consider. There are two main types of wheels – plastic and rubber. 

Plastic wheels are cheaper but are not as durable as rubber wheels. Rubber wheels, on the other hand, are more expensive but are definitely more durable and can handle different types of terrain. 

If you are planning to use your backpack for travel, it is best to go for rubber wheels. But if you are only going to use it for your daily commute, plastic wheels would suffice.

2. Size of the Backpack

The size of the backpack is another important factor that you need to take into consideration. Make sure to choose a backpack that is big enough to fit all your things but not too big that it becomes difficult to carry.

3. Price

The price of the backpack is also an important factor that you need to consider. There are a lot of different types of wheeled backpacks available in the market, so make sure to choose one that fits your budget.

4. Check for Straps

Carrying your backpack would be much easier with additional support such as padded shoulder straps, as well as proper waist belts and chest straps. These would help distribute the weight of your backpack evenly, making it more comfortable for you to carry.

5. Handles

Most wheeled backpacks come with handles on the top and sides. These are extremely helpful when it comes to lifting your backpack into overhead storage compartments on buses or trains. Look for really sturdy handles that can take the weight of your backpack without breaking, and you need both top and side handles.

6. Water Resistant

Choose a wheeled backpack that is made of water-resistant material. This will help keep your things dry and safe in case you get caught in the rain or someone spills their drink on your backpack.

7. Zippers

Zippers are one of the most important parts of a wheeled backpack. They need to be strong and durable enough to withstand a lot of wear and tear. If a zipper goes, your luggage is useless. Look for zippers that are made of metal or reinforced plastic, as they are the most durable.

That said, try to limit the number of zippers accessing the main contents. I use a TSA lock on my bag (for general security on the ground, as well as when flying). Too many zippers means either a ridiculous number of locks, or compromised security.

8. Pockets and Compartments

Just like regular backpacks, wheeled backpacks also come with different compartments and pockets. These are extremely helpful in organizing your things and keeping them easily accessible. 

Some wheeled backpacks even have a separate compartment for your laptop, which is great if you are a student or working professional.

9. Accessibility

Another aspect to consider when choosing a good rolling bag is its accessibility. Does it have an easy-to-reach front pocket? Is the main compartment easily accessible? You don’t want to be fumbling around with a backpack that’s difficult to open. Smart bag design means that you can quickly grab what you need without having to take the whole backpack off and can definitely go a long way.

UPDATE: Although I still stand by everything in this post, you may want to see how – and why – I’m now a roll-aboard girl only, and what criteria you need to decide what is the best wheeled backpack for adults.

The Best Luggage for Long-Term Travel: Backpacks vs Rolling Luggage

…and even more recently:

Checked vs. Carry-On Luggage (and Why Checked is Best) – with a comprehensive overview of and recommendations for different types of checked and carry-on luggage. 

And if you’d prefer to do the carry on backpack thing, here are the Best Carry On Backpacks for One Bag Travel.

Want more Travel Gear Ideas? Check out…

The Ultimate Packing List for Full-Time Travel

Pro Packing Hacks – Best Travel Accessories for Maximizing Space and Organizing Your Stuff

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Wrinkle-Free Travel Clothes for Women

My Search for the Perfect Travel Sandal

All of my annual Travel Gear Review Posts

Anatomie Travel Clothing Made me Throw Out My Jeans

This post Wheeled Backpacks: Why They’re the Best, and Tips for Buying One appeared first on The Professional Hobo. Please click through to read it in full!