topo designs travel bag 30l review

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Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L Review

The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L’s rectangular shape may look unique, but carrying comfort is largely preserved thanks to its relatively low profile.

Our Verdict

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• Low-profile design carries comfortably
• Spacious with enough built-in organization
• Abundance of loops and attachment points adds flexibility
• Somewhat scratchy shoulder straps
• Water bottle pockets lack significant stretchiness
• Some zippers are partly obstructed

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 120/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

Like the Look

Polled on Instagram

Weight (oz)

42 oz (1190.7 g)

Recycled ballistic nylon; 1000D recycled nylon; 400D recycled nylon; 210D recycled nylon

20 in x 12.5 in x 7 in (50.8 x 31.8 x 17.8 cm)

Notable Materials

Recycled Nylon, Ballistic Nylon, Nylon, Packcloth, YKK Zippers, Woojin Hardware, Duraflex Hardware

Manufacturing Country

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

Topo Designs Warranty & Repairs

Buying Options

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Full Review

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With all the bells and whistles travel bags have these days, we’ve more or less narrowed down what we look for at a baseline level. Certain aspects such as capacity, organization, and carrying comfort are important considerations. To be more precise, we’re looking for a bag that’s big on space, with just enough pockets to get a vacation packing list’s worth of gear sorted, and should be easy to carry for the duration of that trip. Sounds easy, right? If only it were.

The Global Travel Bag 30L manages to achieve all three. Its rectangular shape makes it easy to pack like a suitcase, yet also easy to carry, almost like a daypack. You get a front pocket, an admin panel, and a spacious main compartment. However, it’s in the finer details where we have a few problems with the Global Travel Bag. We’ve encountered hiccups with parts like the zippered openings and small water bottle pockets. So, let’s take a look.

Materials & Aesthetic

One look at the Global Travel Bag, and you’ll immediately recognize it as a Topo Designs, well, design. There are at least three shades of colors scattered around the exterior, and not exactly complementary ones. As disjointed as it looks, Topo Designs make the styling work. Far from the more homogenous designs of the likes of Aer , Peak Design , or even Bellroy , Topo Designs’ gear thrives with their multi-color styling, and we like it!

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: if Pixar ever needed bags, Topo Designs would be our top suggestion. Mind you, if you’re not a fan of the mixed colorways, there are more tame options. At the time of writing, there’s Navy, Clay, and Olive (the sample we have) for colorful options and Black and Charcoal for stealthier ones.

The bag’s rectangular shape deserves credit as well. Despite the apparent largeness of this 30-liter bag, it’s relatively low-profile, making it easy to stow away in overhead bins. It’s also easy to Tetris inside a packed-out car trunk alongside similarly squared-off containers.

The materials are a mishmash of different ingredients as well. For the fabric, there’s 1000-denier, 400-denier, 210-denier, and 1680-denier nylon. They’re all recycled, so you can rest assured that they’re environmentally friendly. Topo Designs doesn’t specify which denier fabric goes on which part of the bag. Judging by the thickness of the weaves of the fabric, it’s safe to say that the 210D fabric makes up the liner while the heavier deniers cover the outside. Despite the differences in denier, everything is stitched together solidly, with no loose threads in sight.

As for hardware and zippers, you have your industry-standard names, such as YKK and Woojin. YKK zippers are pretty much as good as you can get when it comes to zippers because of their reliability, and it’s no different on the Global Travel Bag. The same can be said for the Woojin buckles, adjusters, and clips. There are plenty of them around the bag, and none of them have broken over the month of testing the bag.

External Components

Like a lot of travel backpacks , the Global Travel Bag’s shoulder straps stow away completely into a zippered compartment behind the back panel. Thanks to the back panel’s structuredness, there’s no perceptible bulge created; thus comfort is mostly preserved. We’re happy to report that disengaging the gatekeeper clips is fairly easy. Given how there are plenty of travel backpacks whose shoulder straps detach this way (and we’ve struggled to fiddle with a lot of them), we’re more than happy to praise these ones.

The shoulder straps are, as you would expect on a travel backpack, thickly padded. If we have one complaint about them, it’s that they’re quite scratchy. Then again, even that is a fairly minor issue, all things considered.

The sternum strap is simple and straightforward. It’s mounted on a rail system (i.e., it slides along a strap), giving a very granular amount of adjustment. The buckle used is a no-nonsense side-release buckle; no fancy-schmancy magnets here, just something that’s tried and tested.

There’s a detachable hip belt along the bottom for extra stability, plus load lifters for each of the shoulder straps. These are more or less a must-have for a lot of high-capacity travel backpacks. Note that we say “high-capacity” since some travel backpacks do get away with just a pair of shoulder straps and still manage a comfortable carry. As for the Global Travel Bag, we never really find a need for the hip belt, and we mostly rely on the sternum strap and load lifters to keep the weight more centered.

If backpack-style carrying isn’t your thing, you can (alternatively) use the Global Travel Bag’s pair of D-rings to attach a shoulder strap. There’s one near the bottom right corner at the front and another on the top left at the back. A crossbody strap does come included with the bag—a nice value add if nothing else.

That said, carrying the 30-liter Global Travel Bag on one shoulder isn’t exactly a comfortable experience. Even with the well-padded strap, a ton of weight presses down on just that one shoulder while the large profile of the bag leans against your side. It’s quite a sight to behold, especially if you have a smaller body frame. We reserve this style for quick carries over short distances (to/from the car, between rooms, etc.) where messing with the backpack straps is too fussy.

Truth be told, we enjoy carrying the Global Travel Bag as a backpack. Even at its relatively large 30-liter size, the way it’s shaped means most of the weight is spread out. A lot of travel backpacks stick out the back, giving them a slightly saggy feel; not the case with the relatively low-profile Global Travel Bag. Granted, it may look overshadowing on smaller frames, but we’re generally surprised with how well it handles.

There are handles at the top and on the sides. All are thick, padded, and—most important of all—using them doesn’t deform the bag’s structure. We don’t use the top handle all that much, given the bag’s relative tallness. Instead, we prefer to use the right handle since that’s also the direction that a lot of the pockets’ openings face.

Lest we forget, apart from the shoulder straps, crossbody strap, and trio of handles, there’s technically a fourth way to carry the Global Travel Bag. Integrated into the back panel is a luggage pass-through, which sits the bag horizontally on rolling luggage.

The usual caveat of horizontal luggage pass-throughs apply here: loosely packed clothes may get disorganized if you pack them with vertical-oriented carrying in mind. That may sound nitpicky, but considering that the main compartment lacks hold-down straps, it’s worth pointing out.

At the sides, you get a water bottle pocket each. We do appreciate water bottles come as standard, but these ones are a bit too small for our liking. Our usual 18-ounce Hydro Flask fits, though just barely. We have to do a bit of wiggling to get it in there, and the problem is that the elastic doesn’t have that much stretch to it. A bigger bottle like the Owala FreeSip 24 oz , for example, can’t fit despite only being slightly wider than the Hydro Flask. The pockets are also quite shallow, meaning tall bottles that fit may still fall out if they get too top heavy (i.e., when they get tilted).

Now let’s talk about the PackFast Travel System. This is Topo Designs’ approach to modularity, and in fairness, it does work. There are two sets of daisy-chained loops at the front (six loops in total), plus gatekeeper clips at the top and at the bottom. You can use these to attach additional Topo Designs gear with corresponding PackFast loops or clips.

We’ve tested this with the 40-liter version of the Global Travel Bag, attaching the Topo Designs Daypack. The result? It’s mixed, to say the least. On the one hand, it’s a neat way to add capacity and carry two bags at the same time. On the other hand, it compromises the carrying comfort way too much for our liking. We really didn’t want to spoil the Global Travel Bag 30L’s handling, so we’ll leave it to you if the feature is worthwhile using.

You may be wondering about the red loops scattered around the Global Travel Bag. They’re there for more than just the red accent they provide; they’re also a means of securing the zippers. Simply thread the corresponding red paracord zipper pulls through the loops, and you have yourself a deterrent against would-be thieves. Okay, they’re not exactly padlock-secure, but it’s at least an extra step they would have to fumble through before they reach your belongings.

Inside The Backpack

At the front is a quick-grab pocket with a side opening. This can act as your dump pocket for everyday carry accessories like a wallet, smartphone, and earphones, among other things. The space is fairly deep, spanning almost the entire front area of the bag. There are also two zippered pockets inside, so smaller gear like thumb drives have a place here. We do find that unzipping these inner pockets can be tricky since they go all the way to the sides, where it’s a bit tight.

There’s also a built-in key strap, albeit a very short one, so not designed to reach door knobs even when you swing the bag around. Instead, they’re a convenient way to keep keys in one spot for the duration of your trip.

After the front pocket, there’s a secondary compartment that holds an admin panel. It opens up fully like a clamshell, and inside you’re greeted with a bright yellow-green liner. Get used to it because this is what also awaits us in the main compartment; not that it’s a bad thing since it’s a huge boost in terms of internal visibility.

The admin panel handles organization for bulkier gear. Think laptop chargers, high-capacity power banks, tablets, travel-sized keyboards, mice, and the likes. On the other hand, the space is relatively flat, so we wouldn’t try to fit something too rounded like a packable jacket.

Next up is the main compartment. If you’ve read our review of the 40-liter version of the Global Travel Bag, you may be expecting an additional cover on top of the bucket space. Alas, there’s no such cover here, let alone the two additional pockets that came along with it. Instead, it’s just a big bucket for packing cubes and pouches.

The lack of a cover is not a huge loss since it means more of the space is available for your gear and easier access. Speaking of access, the main compartment is quite easy to pack. The sidewalls stay up thanks to the bag’s rigid structure, and it’s easy to navigate inside, again thanks to the very bright interior liner.

We recommend utilizing packing cubes because the Global Travel Bag does lack hold-down straps of any kind. There aren’t any attachment points for accessory straps either, so loose clothing inside may slosh around during transit.

Under the cover are two large zippered mesh pockets, another frequently seen feature on travel backpacks. We’re happy to have two of these since it means we can have each filled with different clothing. Other users prefer a single large mesh pocket dedicated entirely to used clothes, but we prefer the flexibility of having two.

The Global Travel Bag 30L has the ability to expand to 35 liters. However, unlike other travel bags that have bespoke expansion systems, the Global Travel Bag doesn’t have any. The way it expands is more subtle; you just pack it out to the brim, and the bag sort of bulks out automatically.

It’s not so obvious where exactly the Global Travel Bag gets its extra 5 liters of space. Looking at it closely, though, it seems to get it by simply bulging out the front, using the fabric between the main compartment and front compartment as a gusset.

The laptop compartment is largely a carry-over from the 40-liter version. This means that while a 15-inch MacBook Pro does technically fit, it’s relatively tight getting it inside. Furthermore, the zipper is obstructed near the end by the shoulder straps and hip belt’s attachment points, so you have to do some maneuvering to get it fully unzipped.

Actually getting a laptop inside is a bit awkward, too. You’d imagine that it’s as straightforward as inserting the laptop lengthwise since it’s a wide opening. In practice, even our 13-inch MacBook needs to be inserted with the short side going in first, then angling it as it goes in. This is mostly because the end of the zippered opening is blocked, so it really takes some additional maneuvering. We wish this were a smoother process, given how much surface area the Global Travel Bag has to work with on both the 30-liter and 40-liter versions.

So, there you have it, the Global Travel Bag 30L. As far as travel backpacks come and go, this one does a good job of balancing its capacity with its carrying comfort by maintaining a low profile. Unlike the Global Travel Bag 40L , we have fewer complaints about its harness system, let alone how it carries. Absolute carrying capacity aside, this is the ideal Global Travel Bag for us.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

• Structured sides for easier packing of the bucket-style main compartment
• Removable hip belt is a nice addition for this smaller capacity
• Water bottle pockets are fairly small
• Materials in great shape—no blemishes or loose threads anywhere
• Water bottle pockets are pretty tight for bottles larger than 18 ounces
• Decent amount of internal storage in addition to bucket style main compartment
• Comfortable fit that’s low-profile considering its size
• Materials still in great shape
• Some zippered pockets are difficult to open—they bump into the edge of the pack instead of opening fully

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Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L Review: My Experience Using It

Written by Dan

Updated on May 13th, 2024

I’ve used the Topo Global Travel Bag in the 30L size for weekend trips, getaways and hiking. Check out what I like, and what I like less, in this honest review.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

• What I like best
• Things I don’t like (or won’t use)
• How did it go?
• Where to get yours
• More Topo items to check out

Topo Designs is a brand I came to trust early on, and when I tried the Global Travel Bag in 30L, I was pretty sold. I’ve used this backpack on weekend trips and as a hiking daypack. Within days of opening it from the mail, it was on my back going through a leafy state forest (where I got a ton of mosquito bites).

In this review, I’m going through the features I think are the most noteworthy, along with what could be improved. You can use my experience points below to see if it’s your next medium-sized travel backpack.

Key takeaways from this review

• I’m a fan of the design of this backpack, although some people might find it boxy.
• My favorite features are the zippers and the pockets, and I’ll go more into that below.
• There are a lot of backpacks in the $200 range, so competition among trusted brands is fierce, but see why I think this backpack is worthwhile.

What I like best

There’s a lot I like about the Global Travel Bag 30L , if I can be honest. I definitely like more about this backpack than what I don’t like. I’ve recommended it wholeheartedly to friends and family through the years.

Tons of pockets and sleeves

I’ve used mostly every pocket this backpack offers, especially when we’re on a one-bag type of trip. In the past, Becca and I have packed this backpack with a packing cube inside and clothes for both of us. We use the front panel with its interior organizer full of pockets and sleeves for smaller stuff, like toiletries and tech.

Given how much we both drink and always have a water bottle at hand, we’ve used the convenient water bottle pocket, as well as the mesh organizer pockets, and vertical exterior pocket for odds and ends.

It’s unisex

The photos here show me using the backpack, and it looks natural on my back. I’m a regular-sized guy, yet Becca is a petite woman who’s only 5’2”. Nevertheless, Becca likes to wear this backpack, and she often does, because it doesn’t feel overbearing on her narrow shoulders.

On the product page for this backpack on the Topo Designs website, they show both men and women modeling this backpack. It helps that it’s timeless and neither masculine nor feminine in its appearance.

Becca recommends the Global Travel Bag in the 30L size at her list of the best travel backpacks for women .

The quality of the zippers

My and Becca’s favorite thing to talk about when it comes to Topo Designs products are the big fat “heavy duty” zippers. Maybe it’s because we’ve dealt with bags in the past that have had disappointing zippers that snag and break.

Either way, the zippers on all Topo products are kind of the signature style, and they’re not different in the Global Travel Bag : they’re oversized, strong, sturdy and never snag on fabrics. There are also unique “loops” to keep the zippers from opening, so my stuff inside stays secure in transit.

It’s great to see these exact same zippers on more Topo products, like the Topo Mountain duffel we recommend in the best travel duffels to know about.

Clamshell opening

Topo calls the opening style a “U-shape,” but I call it clamshell. This is one of my preferred features of a travel backpack, so that I can see everything inside. With the U-shape zipper opening to the main cavity, I can put in a few packing cubes, or a shoe packing cube, and see how much space I have left.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L

The Global Travel Bag 30L is a quality and functional backpack with cool travel features.

Things I don’t like (or won’t use)

While I think this backpack is overall great quality and the features are useful, here are some things to know.

Back straps

The back straps work fine; they’re just not overly padded. They work well for the fact that they can be tucked into the backpack and dismantled, if you’d like to stow them away and turn the backpack into a duffel. They’re mesh, so they’re lightweight, just not the strongest if you’d like to be hiking uphill for a few hours with this backpack as your daypack.

Pass-through panels for luggage

In all honesty, I didn’t know about this feature when I got the bag, and I didn’t really plan to use it as such. This feature isn’t as obvious as the luggage trolley pass-through panels or handles I’ve seen on other backpacks.

Bag attachment clips

In all honesty, I probably will not be using these bag attachment clips, and I haven’t made use of them to date. The attachment clips are from Topo’s ecosystem of making their products interlock with each other, and what you can do is attach a smaller Topo bag onto your Global Travel Bag , all on the front of a suitcase.

This seems cumbersome to me, and I’d rather just carry my backpacks, if I’m in the airport, which seems to be the use case for this. Plus, the Global Travel Bag in the 30L size is already carry-on compliant.

How did it go?

Like I mentioned above, Becca and I have actually shared the Global Travel Bag (in 30L, not 40L ) as a weekender when traveling with just a change of clothes, laptops and a few toiletries for a one-night stay somewhere. We haven’t taken any extra shoes, which is what made this backpack work for us both. For all minimalist trips, it worked out just fine, and we put small items and essentials in all of the zippered pockets, slits and sleeves.

Of course, you could use the entire bag for yourself, and pack for one person. That way, you’ll have much more space.

I also have taken this bag as a daypack (that Becca and I have shared… do you see a theme here?) on hikes. In these photos, I was in the Hudson Valley on a hot July day with my 30L Topo backpack. I was able to fit everything for a day out exploring the forest, plus essentials we wanted to have at our fingertips while visiting nearby small towns in Upstate New York.

With tons of high ratings, including mine here, this best-selling travel backpack from Topo Designs is worth your time to check out, even if you won’t be buying it.

Topo Designs is continually making awesome products, like the Topo packing cubes (” Pack Bags ”) that I listed in my roundup of the best travel packing cubes .

At its current price point, I feel like the cost of this travel- and adventure-savvy backpack is worthwhile, especially if you plan to make use of the three ways to wear it (backpack, duffel, shoulder bag with one strap).

Where to get yours

Getting the Global Travel Bag in 30L or 40L at its price will qualify your purchase for free shipping and exchanges on the Topo Designs website . You’ll also get the MAP Guarantee , which is a “reasonable lifetime warranty.” Take them up on it!

If you’re the Amazon Prime type of consumer, check out the Global Travel Bag (30L at Amazon , where it comes in a few colors. The only thing is, getting name-brand bags on Amazon might yield discontinued or outdated colors. This is what I’m currently seeing.

You can also easily buy it at REI.com . Note, though, that REI will usually stock just a few color choices, not all of the ones you’ll find on the Topo Designs site. If you are lucky, they may be the current ones.

More Topo items to check out

I already mentioned the affordable Topo Mountain Duffel as well as the helpful Pack Bags , so head onward to check out the nice-looking Topo Mountain Waist Pack and our best travel fanny packs and belt bags.

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Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L & 40L Review

The Topo Designs Travel Bag combines retro design with modern sustainability, using recycled materials to craft a bag that’s as tough as it is stylish.

Finding a  carry-on backpack  to suit your needs can be a difficult task. You need something lightweight but durable. The pack should fit all your gear, including a laptop, without being too bulky. It should be durable, and it should have extra security features.

And that’s where the Topo Designs Travel Bag comes in.

Topo Designs created this bag with city travel in mind—the slim profile is designed to rest nicely on your back as you navigate crowds on public transportation. Numerous compartments offer lots of space and enough organization to keep you on the road for weeks. And you’ll be sleeping easy at night while your backpack is safely locked up with its heavy-duty YKK zippers and security loops.

This pack comes in two sizes—30L and 40L. Both travel bags have the same features, so the only real difference between them is the size.

It also comes in an array of colors so that anyone can find something they love. From the minimalism of the ballistic black to the subdued olive, to the classic navy with pops for bright yellow and red, the Topo Designs Travel Bag offers a color scheme for everyone.

This  travel backpack  has garnered a lot of attention lately in travel reviews, so I decided to share my thoughts in more detail.

So, does this bag deserve all the love? Let’s dive in.

Type: Carry-On Backpack

Use: Travel

This lightweight travel bag is practically bulletproof! Thanks to its many pockets and organizational features, it’s also perfect for digital nomads and city travelers.

9.4 and Above: Best in Class  – It is very hard to earn this score. These packs perform well across every category, and we recommend them universally. These are the best of the best.

8.9–9.3: Highly Recommended  – These are excellent and high-performing packs. Depending on your specific needs, one of these may be a better fit than our best overall picks.

8.3–8.8: Great for the Right Use  – We typically recommend these packs for more specific use cases, because their outstanding performance in one area may have other tradeoffs.

7.5–8.2: Good with Some Compromises  – These are still good packs that we generally recommend. There are some compromises to be aware of depending on your use case.

7.4 and Under: Not Recommended  – We generally don’t review or recommend packs that score this low, except possibly as a budget pick. They typically have significant issues with quality or function.

9.5 Build Quality

Accounting for 25% of the Overall Score, we believe that Build Quality/durability is the single most important factor when it comes to rating and scoring a bag. It’s not the end-all-be-all, but we believe it should earn the highest weighting in our calculations.

We rate backpack build quality on six objective and subjective attributes. A backpack gets a 0-10 score for each attribute based on a standardized scale. Then we use a weighted average to calculate an overall Build Quality score. The six attributes we use to calculate the score are:

• Main Fabric
• Zipper Type
• Reinforcements
• Stitch Quality
• Manufacturing Origin

7.5 Comfort

Accounting for 20% of the Overall Score, we believe Comfort is the second most important factor when it comes to assessing, rating and scoring a backpack. Because comfort is a subjective experience, we believe it would be unfair to score it subjectively based on such a small sample size.

Therefore, we rate backpack comfort on eight very specific and objective attributes. A backpack gets a 0-10 score for each attribute based on a standardized scale, and then we use a weighted average to calculate an overall score for comfort.

When scoring a backpack for comfort, we look at the following eight attributes:

• Shoulder Strap Padding

Shoulder Strap Shape

• Hip Belt Type + Padding

Sternum Strap

Load Lifters

• Breathability & Ventilation

8.3 Ease of Use

Accounting for 15% of the Overall Score, Ease of Use is our third most important score.

Unlike most rating categories, our ease of use scoring metrics are different depending on whether the backpack in question is a travel backpack, hiking backpack, or everyday backpack.

Because there are different metrics for each backpack type, the percentage breakdown is also different for each backpack type.

Ease of Use refers to whether or not the bag is easy to use. Depending on the bag type, this ultimately comes down to varying combinations of the following attributes:

• Subjective Testing Score

Main Opening Style

Water Bottle Pockets

Number of Grab Handles

• Laptop Accessibility

Luggage Handle Pass-Through

• On-Body Access
• Stow-Away Harness

Front Pocket

8.7 Functionality

Accounting for 10% of the Overall Score, our backpack Functionality rating is based on a combination of subjective testing and specific objective metrics.

A Functionality score answers the question of “how well does this bag do what it’s supposed to do?” This is primarily a subjective score. It’s based on:

• Subjective Functionality Testing
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio
• Laptop Protection (When Applicable)

6.1 Water Resistance

Water Resistance accounts for 5% of the Overall Score. It’s an objective metric based on the following three attributes:

Water-Resistant Fabric

• Water-Resistant Zippers

7.9 Brand Impact

It is important to us to recommend brands that we believe are doing good in the world. Because of that, we rate every brand we review based on their global impact. This rating incorporates elements like sustainable design, carbon reduction, ethical manufacturing, and fair working conditions for employees.

The Brand Impact score is an objective metric which accounts for 5% of the overall score and takes into account:

• Funding Source
• Usage of Sustainable Materials
• Participation in Emissions Reduction Programs
• Certified Carbon Neutral
• Certified B-Corp
• Regular Impact Reporting
• Fair Trade Certified

6.9 Buying Experience

We value companies that implement specific policies to reduce the stress and risk of buying a product. We give higher ratings to companies with free shipping and no-nonsense satisfaction policies.

Accounting for 5% of the Overall Score, the Buying Experience score is an objective metric based on the following attributes:

• Shipping Cost

Return Cost

Return Window

• End-of-Life Trade-In Policy

7.0 Warranty

It’s always a good idea to buy from companies that stand behind their products with solid lifetime warranties.

The Warranty score is an objective metric based on the brand’s warranty policy which accounts for 5% of the Overall Score.

10.0 Price-to-Performance

We rate products based on the bang for your buck they provide. We measure that using a Cost-to-Performance ratio, which enables us to evaluate whether a higher-end product is really worth the extra cost or whether it’s better to save some cash.

We calculate the Cost-to-Performance ratio by comparing the MSRP to the testing and scoring of all the previous categories. A product that performs well at a lower cost has a higher Cost-to-Performance ratio.

This is an important data piece to look at if you are on a budget but still want the best quality and design possible.

• Ideal size for carry-on travel
• Slim profile makes it easy to slip in and out of crowded spaces without having to take it off
• Incredibly lightweight but still durable
• "Three ways to carry" design offers a lot of flexibility
• If packed to full capacity, the 40L dimensions don't align with many airline carry-on size restrictions
• The number of pockets can be overwhelming (for something simpler, try the Osprey Talon or the Osprey Farpoint)
• There are no water bottle pockets (but you can find a clip-on or packable water bottle in my list of best water bottles)

20.0" x 12.5" x 7.0"

800D+ Cordura or ballistic nylon

• Expand to view all specs

YKK #10 coil zipper

padded, built-in

Breathability

panel loader

Laptop Protection

suspended and padded sleeve

thinner internal PU coating

Water-Resitant Zippers

uncoated zippers

pay for shipping

limited lifetime warranty

• Collapse specs

Topo Designs Travel Bag: Quick Answers

• This bag comes in two sizes: 30L and 40L. Both are generally suitable as carry-on travel bags, but the dimensions of the 40L travel backpack may exceed some airlines’ sizing.
• This bag is incredibly lightweight for its size; the 40L version checks in at only 3.65 pounds.
• Numerous zippered pockets make organization a breeze, but minimalists may find the design overcomplicated.
• Military-grade ballistic nylon helps repel water, but this pack isn’t waterproof.
• Travel in style with four color options: black, olive, navy, or charcoal.
• The “three ways to carry” design adds versatility, but most travelers won’t stray beyond the backpack function.
• All packs from Topo Designs come with a lifetime warranty and an extensive repair policy so you’re guaranteed to have the best experience as you travel with your well-loved bag.

Who Is the Topo Designs Travel Bag For?

• City-hopping travelers who want a simple, stylish yet functional design
• Digital nomads who want to carry their laptop everywhere
• Efficient travelers who want to skip baggage claim and carry their gear on their back
• Versatile travelers who alternate between work trips and personal travel excursions
• Ounce-counting travelers who want to minimize weight without sacrificing functionality
• The organized traveler who loves countless pocket options and add-on features

Who Isn’t the Topo Designs Travel Bag For?

• Hikers and backpackers will want to travel with something more specialized, as this harness system is not adequate for carrying heavy weight for miles or weeks at a time—try the Osprey Atmos 65
• Heavy packers would benefit from an alternative travel backpack with an internal frame to better carry and distribute weight
• People who like to travel with a lot of stuff; this backpack is meant as a carry-on
• Travelers looking for traditional luggage—although there are multiple ways to transport this backpack, it doesn’t have a roll option like other carry-on luggage options
• Travelers headed to sweaty environments; the lack of mesh on the back panel decreases breathability
• Anyone looking to travel with a laptop bigger than 15″

Who is Topo Designs?

In 2008, Jedd Rose and Mark Hansen started Topo Designs out of their basement in Fort Collins, Colorado. Armed with a sewing machine and a clear vision—to create functional, durable, beautiful products that resembled classic outdoor gear.

Jedd began designing and crafting a backpack. Mark began to work on the logistics. Together, they collected resources and built a company in accordance with their values.

Topo Designs strives to blend the outdoor experience with world travel culture. They pay homage to the classic styling of the outdoors gear they used growing up while incorporating modern additions.

And they want their products to be multifunctional and utilitarian: durable enough to outlast treks in rugged mountains, but simple and stylish enough to be used around town.

Topo Designs stands by their products, offering a “MAP Guarantee”—they ensure that your pack is durable and capable of joining you anywhere you go on the map. But they also stand by the environment: their motto is “repair, don’t replace.” They understand that gear is an extension of its owner.

Anyone who has backpacked can attest that, by the end of a trip, your backpack feels like a part of you. So, Topo Designs aims to reduce the number of products thrown away. Instead, they work to repair broken gear and return it promptly to its owner.

Topo Designs Travel Bag Features

Topo Designs works hard to ensure their travel bags are both functional and appealing. And while they maintain their classic outdoor-style aesthetic with the Travel Bag, this backpack is geared more towards airline travel than trekking.

Its square shape allows ample packing space, but the lack of a frame means the harness system isn’t strong enough to support heavy weight for long durations.

Organization pockets and security features also make this a great choice as a carry-on for some city backpacking travel or a weekend work trip.

Let’s review their demo:

Dimensions & Specifications

The dimensions for these travel bags are indicative of the pack sizes when stuffed to maximum capacity. Overall, both packs’ dimensions are smaller when unpacked, and both are carry-on compatible for most airlines.

Carry-On Compatibility

The 30L Travel Bag is a perfect weekend travel carry-on. It fills the dimension requirements of airlines, contains a designated laptop pocket, and has extra space to spare. However, if you travel more extensively, you may find it too snug and choose to opt for the roomier 40L version.

The 40L Travel Bag fits most airline size requirements, but it’s not a guarantee. However, the additional space could be essential for longer travel. Most people traveling with this pack do not experience any problems using it as a carry-on travel pack but review your airline’s rules before you go.

Backpack Straps with Load-Lifters

Although these cushioned straps will suffice for long layovers and extensive travel days, they are less comfortable than those of a designated hiking backpack. So if you have long walking days in your future, or plan to do much hiking with this bag, you’ll want to go light or seek out other options.

Enhance your experience and use the load-lifter straps, especially when you carry the 40L pack. These straps help to keep the pack close to your upper back while shifting most of the weight onto your hips. Keep in mind, these load-lifter straps are virtually useless without the optional waist-belt.

Carry Handles and Shoulder Strap

In addition to the backpack straps, this bag contains a removable shoulder strap so you can carry it as a messenger bag or duffel. D-rings on the side of the pack to attach this shoulder strap make the transition easy.

This may be especially useful for professional travelers who want luggage that they can carry to work meetings in a messenger bag style, with the option of switching to a backpack later.

(If that’s the case, I recommend this bag in black for a sleek, professional look.)

Keep in mind that the shoulder strap may be better suited for the 30L version, as the 40L is a bit big for the duffel-style to be practical.

Additionally, the hefty side and top grab handles allow you to carry it briefcase-style. This isn’t the most practical method, but it can be useful to grab and go. These handles are incredibly durable and they also sit close to the bag, so you can forget about them when you’re not using them.

Removable Sternum Strap and Optional Waist Belt

Both the removable sternum strap and optional waist belt increase the load capacity of this bag. The sternum strap helps with balance while keeping the pack stable on your shoulders. When you’re not using it, simply remove the sternum strap from its attachment clips and tuck it away in your bag.

The cushion on the waist belt is fairly thin, but this feature is helpful nonetheless. The waist belt can be tucked away into the back panel when it’s not in use. It doesn’t feel bulky when it’s tucked away, so that’s a sacrifice I’m willing to live with.

Stow-Away Harness System

This innovative stow-away system allows you to hide the backpack straps in a zipper compartment. This is helpful if you intend to carry it as a duffel bag for extended periods of time.

Additionally, stowing the backpack straps is crucial if you ever decide to check this bag through an airline. It will keep the straps safe and secure even while your bag gets tossed around.

The Travel Bag’s stow-away harness system succeeds in securing dangling straps without being bulky. It’s hard to even tell they’re there.

Organization Pockets

This travel backpack has so many pockets. It’s amazing to me that they could incorporate so many features and still keep the bag lightweight. And for the organization-enthusiast, there are a lot of packing options. Let’s review.

First, on the front panel, you have a side-zipping security pocket for small items. Inside this pocket, there are two smaller zippered pockets. It’s nice to know that the gear in the front of your bag is safely stowed away in a maze of zippers as you navigate busy city streets.

The front panel also houses another interior compartment. There are dual slip pockets, and yet another zippered pocket. These are significantly larger and can be used to stow maps, notebooks, or other gear which requires easy access.

Then comes the main compartment. This is where the organization options really shine. When you unzip the bag, you’ll see four zipped pockets: two mesh and two nylon. Behind the mesh pockets, you can reveal yet another zippered compartment. (At this point, I’m wondering who even needs this many features.)

And you’re not even fully into the main compartment yet. Finally, you unzip the last section to reveal the roomy main compartment. This is where you’ll want to keep the bulk of your gear. Topo Designs has pack bags (their version of packing cubes) which rest nicely in this space.

The last pocket is a padded laptop compartment (which I’ll review next).

Some will love the plethora of pockets, while others will find the number of zippers overwhelming and unnecessary. It all depends on what kind of packer you are.

I can say without a doubt that if you value packing and organization above all else, you’ll be a fan of this pack. Alternatively, you might want to consider a NOMATIC Backpack, which has many of the same organization features.

Laptop Storage

The laptop storage pocket is well-protected and easy to access. Anyone who has traveled by plane with a laptop knows how crucial it is to be able to unload your laptop without making a mess out of your carefully packed backpack.

However, the zippered compartment seems small when it actually comes time to fit your laptop in. Topo Designs attests that this pocket fits most laptops up to 15″, but it’s better if your laptop is smaller than that. The compartment is roomy, but the zipper isn’t quite long enough.

This makes it difficult to fit an older-model 15″ laptop in the 30L pack, which increasingly becomes a problem if you tightly pack your travel bag. However, if you’re traveling light and have room to spare, your laptop should fit with no problem.

Clamshell Opening Front and Main Compartment

In addition to the main compartment, there is another large compartment on the front panel that allows U-shaped entry. The pack cloth liner on the interior is yellow on most of the color options, so your stuff easily stands out. However, the ballistic black color option includes a black pack cloth liner to keep the design simple and more professional looking.

Attachment Options

Daisy chain webbing on the front panel provides easy attachment points. This is a great place to add smaller accessories and other items, such as water bottles—a nice touch, since this travel backpack doesn’t carry a water bottle holder.

For us, this attachment feature seems excessive. It turns you into a human wrecking-ball and increases the load past the point where it’s comfortable to carry.

Instead of stacking bag on bag, I would simply wear one backpack and use the messenger-bag carry option for the travel bag.

But hey, it might be useful for covering a short distance from the airport to your accommodation.

Pass-Through Sleeve

The 30L Travel Bag includes a pass-through sleeve so you can easily hook this pack on the handle of a rolling suitcase. Once you get through airport security, you can streamline your carry system and only wheel around one piece of luggage.

This feature is only available on the 30L pack. This makes sense because the 30L can serve as a “personal item” during air travel, while the 40L would be too big. The 30L travel bag stows under the seat of most airplanes. This way your laptop will be easily accessible during travel.

Topo Designs Travel Bag Review

This travel bag is made from high-quality, durable materials. The nylon is so tough that you can carry-on or check this bag without worry.

The padded shoulder straps and waist strap are foam with overlying mesh. The back panel is padded ballistic nylon with a foam interior. There is no mesh along the back panel, so it isn’t breathable.

Heavy Duty Nylon

This bag is heavy-duty. The Travel Bag packs are made of high-quality 1000D nylon. This is standard, durable nylon that is capable of taking a beating. To give you a point of comparison, most nylon hiking backpacks are between 400D – 600D nylon—this means the Topo Designs Travel Bag is a fair bit thicker and more durable.

I haven’t quite figured out how Topo uses such thick, durable nylon and keeps the pack weight insanely light, but props to them.

Additionally, there is ballistic, heavy-duty nylon at the bottom of the pack to protect the extra-vulnerable regions (like your laptop if you drop the bag on the floor). Topo Design’s rugged mountain background really shines here: I can’t imagine much puncturing this insanely durable exterior.

Although none of this nylon is waterproof, it’s all water-repellent. Any moisture that does make it past the sturdy exterior will be stopped in its tracks by the 210D nylon pack cloth liner.

YKK Zippers

If you know anything about zippers, you know YKK are some of the best around. These zippers are equipped with a water-resistant backing. In addition, they are very chunky, easy to grab, and they slide easily. The paracord zipper pulls help these babies run smoothly. The security loop on the main compartment keeps the zipper in place and ensures that no one will be messing with your bag.

Style & Aesthetics

The boxy look isn’t for everyone, but the square design is important for maximizing useable space. The rounded corners of other travel backpacks sacrifice a lot of useable space.

This pack comes in multiple color profiles: ballistic black, navy, olive, and charcoal. The all-black design is modern and sleek, while the olive and navy colors are a bit more playful. The recent addition of the olive color gives a middle ground for travelers looking for a product with a bit of personality. The yellow daisy-chain webbing and red paracord and strap details add pops of color without being too bold.

I personally love both the navy and olive color schemes. The vintage appearance really steps up the style!

The inside of the olive or navy pack is a bright yellow rather than the basic black that many other companies use. While many might think this color is garish, it does serve a purpose. The yellow provides a great contrast, making it easy to find your gear. Avoid the black hole experience of a more traditional pack, and the stuff you carry will certainly stand out.

If you do like the entirely black product look, you won’t be disappointed. The black color option includes a black pack cloth liner instead of the fluorescent yellow.

This bag is very comfortable for shorter durations. The contours of the strap fit nicely to your shoulders, and they are well padded. The padded waist strap and removable sternum strap allow you to travel for longer and will share some of the weight with your hips.

And, if you get tired of wearing it, you can always carry it!

While this product is decently comfortable, it is best used as an alternative to traditional luggage. If you’re embarking on a backpacking-heavy travel adventure, you may want to check out other options.

Organization

Organization was obviously a huge factor for the design of the Travel Bag, so it’s a big part of this review. There are zippered pockets of all shapes and sizes so that you can organize your gear exactly how you want it.

Additionally, the main compartment is surprisingly roomy after you dig through layers of pockets to find it. The choice is yours with this bag: you can easily customize your travel experience.

The organization is greatly improved by the addition of the padded laptop pocket on the outside. It is useful for easy access at airport security and will save you from digging through your bag.

The attachment features enhance the organizational experience. The travel bag may lack any exterior pockets, but it includes daisy chain webbing so that you can carry gear on the outside of the pack as well. This also makes it easy to carry too much gear, though.

Overall, the number of pockets will streamline packing, but I think they overdid it just a little bit on the pocket front.

These travel backpacks definitely are definitely durable. The heavy-duty nylon is overkill compared to most bags on the market today, but this way you know it’s going to last.

Many companies create lightweight travel backpacks by using very thin material that’s prone to rip. But, Topo Designs has come up with a way to match thick, durable nylon with a lightweight design. Basically, this pack is the perfect blend of durable and lightweight.

Topo Designs Travel Bag Accessories

This Travel Bag review wouldn’t be complete without a look at the Travel Bag kits that Topo Designs offers in addition to the backpack. These kits come complete with everything you need to perfect your travel organization system. Add on the accessories to really up the functionality of this already organized pack.

Pack bags are Topo Design’s version of zippered travel packing cubes. They are simple and perfect for bag organization.

The Dopp Kit is a triangular toiletries bag. It’s nice and structured, and the shape makes it easy to fit this in amongst your other packing luggage. When you don’t have anything in it, it folds down flat.

This Dopp Kit is simple, functional, and comes with a hang loop.

Accessory Bags

While the pack bags are designed to hold your clothes and larger goods, the accessory bags come in a range of sizes. They are built to carry smaller items, from headphones to computer charges. They’re also useful for keeping your travel bag free from a nest of cords. However, with the number of zippered pockets already in the Travel Bag, it’s easy to go without these.

Price: How Much Does the Topo Designs Travel Bag Cost?

This wouldn’t be a travel bag review without addressing the issue of cost. And the Topo Designs Travel Bag isn’t cheap.

The 30L Travel Bag starts at $189 with free shipping and returns in the United States.

The 40L Travel Bag is $229 with free shipping and returns in the United States.

These prices may seem steep for a starter travel pack, but the bag’s high-quality, durable materials and design features add to the value. This product is built to last a lifetime of travel, and this durability is backed up by its lifetime warranty.

Warranty: What Kind of Warranty Does Topo Designs Offer?

Like many reputable companies these days, Topo Designs wants their customers to have the best travel experience possible. That’s why they offer a lifetime warranty on all their backpacks, bags, apparel, and gear. They call it the MAP Guarantee and it protects against any manufacturing defects or material flaws. This warranty does not cover damage from wear and tear, neglect, or accidents.

However, if you do manage to damage this durable pack, Topo Designs will help you out. They understand that our travel bags see a bit of tough love, so they have a comprehensive repair program to return your backpack to working order. Simply email the company a repair form, send in your product, and let them do the rest. Returns generally take between 4-6 weeks.

But Topo Designs takes it a level further in their returns program. They demonstrate their dedication to sustainable product development by offering a repair reimbursement program. Instead of sending them the product, you could keep your repair local. Find someone in your area, send in a claim to Topo Designs, and they’ll send you a gift card for the cost of the repair. It may not be the most ideal option for everyone (and it may work better for apparel than bags), but I still think it’s pretty darn cool.

Shipping: Does Topo Designs Ship Internationally?

If you order directly from the Topo Designs website, they offer free U.S. shipping, as well as free returns and exchanges. This free domestic shipping can take up to a week, depending on your distance from Colorado.

Topo Designs also ships internationally. This shipping will generally take a couple of weeks. However, additional duties and taxes must be paid at the time of delivery. Keep this in mind when ordering, because these fees are not included in Topo Designs’ shipping rates.

Contact your local postal service to find out what fees you’ll encounter. And of course, you can email the company if you have any questions about their international shipping. Just review the details!

Topo Designs Travel Bag Review Summary: Final Thoughts

The Topo Designs Travel Bag is a well-designed carry-on bag perfect for shorter trips. It’s durable, has numerous pockets for organization, and includes a padded laptop pocket. It’s perfect for the digital nomad, or anyone seeking a balance of classic style and function.

This is also a great pack for a traveler looking to take the leap from traditional luggage to backpack-style travel. With various attachment points and a “three ways to carry” system, the Travel Bag is highly versatile.

The vintage aesthetic is unique. The colorful design of the olive and navy versions is more eye-catching than many of the other sleek black backpacks on the market, like the Peak Design Travel Backpack or Tortuga Outbreaker .

However, as I think this review outlines, it’s not for everyone.

While it works well for a weekend travel excursion, the harness system may be too simple for longer travel. If you’re planning to travel for a couple of weeks, you may want to browse other options.

I love that the Topo Designs Travel Bag comes in two sizes and is full of features. The 30L is great for weekend travel but may be too small for heavy packers for longer travel. However, the 40L version pushes the limits of many airline carry-on restrictions.

This is a high-quality, durable product that is well-suited for those who seek to travel with an extensive organization system. But for the minimalist travelers among us, the Travel Bag design may seem excessive.

At the end of the day, the choice is yours!

Topo Designs Travel Bag FAQs

Is the topo designs travel bag worth it.

The Topo Designs Travel Bag is worth it for anyone who wants a stylish and functional carry-on backpack.

What material is the Topo Designs Travel Bag Made Of?

The Topo Designs Travel Bag is made of recycled nylon in 100D, 400D, and 210D thicknesses.

Where is Topo Designs headquartered?

The Topo Designs headquarters is in Denver, Colorado.

What are alternatives to the Topo Designs Travel Bag?

The best alternatives to the Topo Designs Travel Bag are the Peak Design Travel Backpack and the Cotopaxi Allpa 35.

Is Topo Designs a good brand?

Yes, Topo Designs is a great brand that’s known for retro styling and durable construction

Jeremy Scott Foster

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Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Review: Up For Any Adventure

Updated on August 20, 2024 by Sheri Frederito · Product Reviews

Are you an adventure seeker looking for a bag as rugged as your travel? Read on to see if the Topo Designs Global travel bag lives up to the hype.

Finding the perfect travel bag is akin to discovering a rare hidden gem. Some travel calls for a sturdy carry-on and other times, you need a trusty bag that you know fares well on adventure. 

If you read my Carl Friedrick Carry-On X review , you’ll know I am notorious for overpacking. This means finding a bag that accommodates my over-preparedness while fitting in the overhead bin is always challenging.

When Topo Designs graciously offered The Modest Man their Global Travel Bag to sample, I gleefully accepted. It was perfect timing, too, as my latest travels took me camping on the California coast for a week.

I put the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller up to the test. Are you wondering how it did? Read on to see if it ranks as a travel bag favorite or if it’s just more extra baggage.

Table of Contents

Topo Designs’ Basement Beginnings

Before we dive into the review, let’s chat about Topo Designs’ humble beginnings. 

The brand began in 2008 in a basement in Fort Collins, Colorado. Jedd Rose and Mark Hansen desired outdoor goods that were durable, functional, and classic. Rose purchased a sewing machine and began creating packs in his basement.

The duo’s founding mission is rooted “with the fundamental belief that everyone experiences the outdoors differently. [They] want to get everyone outside without feeling encumbered by the traditional notions that hold them back.”

As a result, they create travel bags, packs, accessories and clothes for both men and women. Durability and sustainability are at the core of their creations. The brand uses organic cotton and recycled nylon to create ethical and eco-friendly products.

My Global Travel Bag Roller First Impressions

Upon opening the box, I was pleasantly surprised by the color combination and size of the bag. I chose the bag in the Bone White/Olive color combination. 

I traditionally opt for neutrals , but I wanted something that (slightly) stood out of the crowd. This color combo is wonderfully neutral, and the blue accents contrast nicely. 

The bag was also surprisingly flat. I wasn’t sure it would hold a week’s worth of clothes for my camping trip, but I’m an optimist, so I would try to make it work anyway. 

I also liked the various carry options. You can extend the telescoping suitcase handle to roll it along. By the way, the wheels look and feel super sturdy. Or, use one of the three side/top handles to carry it as you would a briefcase. 

My favorite option is the backpack carry. 

Yes, this bag has stowable backpack straps so that you can toss it on your back as a hands-free option. 

However, it’s important to note that if you are of modest height, you might find the bag to be a bit long on your back. It’s 21” long, and I’m 5’6”, so it felt a bit long to carry on my back. I am also a toddler’s parent; therefore, the hands-free option is a no-brainer, regardless of size.

Last, Topo Designs constructs the front of the bag with sturdy, rugged recycled nylon. However, the back of the bag is made from recycled plastic. This gives you a lightweight and flexible bag that retains its shape.

Packing The Global Travel Bag: So Much Room For Activities

Don’t be fooled by the Global Travel Bag Roller’s size. It packs shockingly well. After all, Topo designs the bag with SO many pockets, almost forcing you to become organized. 

I also appreciated the high-visibility liner. Trust me, you’re not losing anything in this bag!

You’ll find a zippered laptop pocket in the padded exterior pocket or a pocket for travel docs if you prefer. There are also two drop-in pockets. 

Inside, you’ll find two internal compartments. The first compartment has two zippered mesh pockets and a nylon zippered pocket. Unzip the first compartment to see the main packing area. Personally, I liked that the main compartment closes with a zipper as it acts like a large pack bag. 

I could pack a whole week’s worth of clothes in this bag, though there wasn’t much room left over. Here’s everything I took with me:

• Ten shirts (both short and long sleeves)
• Two sweatshirts
• A hooded flannel button-up
• One set of pajamas
• One pair of shorts
• Eight pairs of pants
• Undergarments packed into the Topo Designs 10L Pack Bag
• A corduroy baseball cap
• Toiletries packed into a Topo Designs Dopp Kit
• Two pairs of shoes

Yes, I know that’s a lot. Obviously, I haven’t learned my lesson, and I am still an overpacker. However, everything fits perfectly into the Global Travel Bag Roller .

Sadly, I think I could have packed more (even if I didn’t need more) if I had additional pack bags. 

The roller might be too big for your needs if you are a minimalist when packing or traveling . Instead, you could opt for the slightly smaller Global Travel Bag 40L or the Global Travel Bag 30L . Suffice it to say Topo Designs has a bag for almost all of your travel needs.

Topo Designs Dopp Kit and 10L Pack Bag

Topo Designs also sent their Dopp Kit and 10L Pack Bag along with the travel roller. 

I’ve already mentioned that the travel roller has plenty of organization, but I really liked the Pack Bag. It’s perfect for things like undergarments and even shoes to ensure your clothes don’t get dirty. Or, tuck one away to pack your dirty clothes for the trip home. 

There are a plethora of uses for the Topo Designs Pack Bags, so I highly recommend adding one to your shopping cart. 

I kept undergarments in mine, and there was plenty of room for socks, underwear, and more. In fact, I think these things would have fit perfectly fine in the 5L Pack Bag . Unfortunately, it was out of stock when I placed my order. 

The 5L Pack Bag measures 7”h x 3”d x 10”w, while the 10L is 14”h x 3”d x 10”w.

The Dopp Kit also had plenty of room for everything I needed to bring, with extra space. I was able to pack the following in my Dopp Kit :

• Toothbrush and travel-size toothpaste
• Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
• Travel containers with face wash, moisturizer, and lotion
• Travel-size contact solution and a week’s worth of disposable contacts
• Eyeglasses and case
• Retainer case
• Deodorant 

The Topo Designs Dopp Kit features a triangular design that allows the bag to stand upright. It’s constructed of recycled nylon, similar to the travel bag and easy to clean. 

The Dopp Kit measures 5.5”h x 5.5”d x 11”w. It’s not a giant bag by any means, but it feels incredibly roomy. 

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller Specs

By now, you should know that I absolutely love the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller. If you’re not entirely convinced yet, here are a few additional specs and features to entice you. 

• PackFast Attachment Clips
• Heavy-duty YKK zippers w/security loops
• External stabilizer bar
• Crush-proof wheels
• Sustainable yet sturdy, recycled nylons and PC plastic

The Global Travel Bag Roller measures 13.5”w x 21”h x 9”d. 

Yes, you read that right. I could pack everything I mentioned in a 9” in-depth unpacked bag. 

This bag also weighs 6.6 pounds unpacked. 

Should You Go All In With A Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller?

The answer is a resounding yes if you need something outdoorsy, rugged and sustainably made. You should definitely add the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller to your luggage rotation. 

Other than the length of the bag in backpack mode, there isn’t anything negative to say about it. 

While it could replace a hardshell carry-on luggage, I don’t know if I would. I would be concerned about how it would fare checked-in should you need to. 

At the very least, it would likely get dirty from handling and airplane luggage storage. There’s a time and place for both so if you have the space in your home, I’d definitely keep both. 

Without a doubt, this bag does exactly what it’s intended to — make one bag travel as easy as possible!

What’s your go-to travel bag? Let us know in the comments below.

Related Posts

About Sheri Frederito

Sheri Frederito is the Content Manager for the Modest Man. She was born and raised in California and currently lives there. She loves reading, baking, traveling and watching movies from the 1990s and 2000s. Background: In college, Sheri earned her B.A. and M.A. in history. Her focal study was on the relationship between colonialism and pandemics in world history. She also studied medical history in the United States. While in college, she worked at Stitch Fix as a personal stylist for men and women. She also offered personalized style advice, mastered the art of fit, and was a regular contributor to the brand’s blog. What started as a part-time position to earn extra money through college transitioned into a career in content creation and management. Expertise: Sheri developed a keen sense of style and broad knowledge of the intricacies of fit through her previous work experience. She has been a writer in the fashion and style space for the last 10 years. While she is the girl behind The Modest Man content, she writes content periodically for the site, typically surrounding bags/luggage, jewelry and pop culture.

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Topo designs 30l travel bag review.

Topo Travel Bag – Daypack Mode

Video Review – Scroll down for text and photos

If you’ve followed my blog/ YouTube for any length of time, you know I like Topo Designs bags and backpacks . 

Topo Designs lured me in with the  original daypack in… 2011? I followed that up with the Duffel bag , the Mini Mountain bag , the Klettersack (which I oddly never reviewed) and then the original Travel Bag – the full size one, the discontinued Backpack Tote , the Field Bag , The Mountain Briefcase , the Cinch Tote Bag , and the Mountain Pack . In addition to that, my kid carries the Y-Pack to school every day and my wife has the Quick Pack . 

I was going to try and deny being some sort of Topo Designs nutjob… Oh well. 

If I’m a nut for Topo Designs bags and packs, it’s with good reason. The bags are sturdy, long-lasting, and functional. They come in great colors and unique designs. They’re carefully crafted and up until recently, they were made exclusively in the USA. I really, really like stuff made in the USA. While Topo has shifted some manufacturing overseas (I assume to meet with increased demand – they carry Topo Designs at REI now), several pieces are still made in the USA – not just in the USA actually, but right next door in Colorado. 

If any company could be said to have a geographic vibe, then Topo Designs does. Their designs fit perfectly in the Western US – in the Mountains, in the deserts. In the wide open spaces and in quirky (often tourist-packed) mountain towns. That’s not to say they won’t find a happy home in an urban environment or anywhere else in the world, but their mountain heritage is evident in the designs, materials and colors. In the beginning you could have called them “retro.” You can’t call them that anymore. They find inspiration in designs from the 70’s and 80’s, but at this point Topo Designs is doing their own thing – and they’re doing it very well. 

Topo Designs made a Travel Pack several years ago (I (embarrassingly) review it here ) – a bag sized to fit airline carry-on restrictions. It came with an optional satellite pack (The Trip Pack ) that hooked to the front and came off to serve as a smaller daypack or “personal item,” which is airline speak for the bag that goes under the seat in front of you and ruins what little comfort you may have had. I used the original travel bag for years and while it was a great bag, it had two issues I struggled with. First, it was too large for anything other than travel, and second, it didn’t lie flat when open. Topo has solved both these issues with this new bag – in fact they’ve gone a step further by offering the redesigned Travel Bag in two sizes . Both lie flat when open. Let’s check it out. 

The Review:

Topo sent me the smaller Topo Travel Bag – the 30L. By my measurements it’s roughly 13″ X 7.5″ X 20. It’s perhaps a hair larger than a what you might use for an everyday type daypack, but not terribly so. For example, I generally use the Topo Designs Mountain Pack as my go-to daypack for almost everything, and it’s about 25-26 liters vs the Travel Bag at about 30L. Unless you’re tiny or like to pack really light you could probably use the 30L Travel Bag as a daypack most of the time. 

In fact, using it as a daypack is exactly what I’ve been doing with it. For the last month or so, I packed it all over. I carried running gear, computer gear, and camera gear in it. I hiked a little with it and I slipped it into an overhead bin on an airplane and threw it in the back of my truck. in short, it’s an awesome, well-designed, tough bag that will serve any traveler or outdoor enthusiast quite well.  

Frequent travelers will note a few features that stand out as setting the Topo Travel Bag apart from the competition. I love that you can stow the shoulder straps. I drive all over for work and often I just need a bag, not a backpack. Stowing the shoulder straps makes the bag seem much sleeker and more manageable. With the shoulder straps stowed, the bag still has four other options for carry – five if you count the pass through that goes over a larger, roller bag handle. There are three handles sewn into the bag – one on top and one on each side. This means no matter how I put the bag in the truck, I’ve always got a handle I can grab to get the bag out. It’s also got the adjustable shoulder strap. I like that the strap swivels – it rarely gets tangled. 

The location of the pass through for the roller bag handle doubles as the back padding and adds some rigidity to the bag overall. It’s a bag that seems to really hold its shape. The padding for the the back and the pass through slot doubles as padding for the laptop compartment, which is also padded on the other side (the clothing/contents side). If you stow the backpack straps then the laptop compartment is that much more padded. 

If you count the laptop compartment then there’s technically 9 different pockets on the bag. There’s one on the front – with two zippered internal ones, there’s the front compartment with a zipper pouch and two slip pockets, and then the main compartment has two zippered mesh compartments. I’ve always praised Topo Designs for their restraint – they put enough pockets to be organized, but not so many users get confused. I had a small North Face pack once that I hated using because it had too many pockets. I couldn’t find anything in that bag. The Topo Travel Bag has, thankfully, an appropriate number of pockets. 

The laptop compartment on the 30L version of the Travel Bag easily fits my 14″ laptop. Topo claims it’ll fit most 15.6″ laptops, but I’m a little skeptical. I have an older (8+ yrs) 15.6 laptop and it definitely won’t fit. Perhaps a more modern, sleeker 15.6″ will? If you’re on the fence about the 30L version and use a 15.6 laptop, it’s worth confirming before purchasing.

It has clips top and bottom for attaching other Topo bags, such as the Y-Pack , or the Trip Pack , so that you’ll actually have two bags when you get where you’re going. This is a great idea. I hate having to empty out all my clothes to use the one bag I brought once I’m at a destination. The more bags I have with me, the better. 

The plastic hardware is WooJin , and while I’d never heard of it before, they feel nice and work well. It’s not cheapo plastic. It’s substantial, clean, and smooth to the touch – no rough edges that I can find. 

The clips that hold the potential separate pack and the shoulder straps and waist strap are a little difficult to unclip. They have a little wire bale that needs to be unhooked from the plastic catch, and I find myself using quite a bit of manipulation to get them undone. Clipping them back together is a cinch. I wish getting them unclipped was that easy. 

The waist strap and the sternum straps are, thankfully, removable. 

There’s a couple little webbing loops at the bottom of the zippers that allow users to tuck the zippers in for an added measure of security. Of course it’s no substitute for a lock or a vigilant eye, but it makes it a little more difficult for someone to quickly and quietly slip the bag open and help themselves. 

And finally, it lies flat. I love bags that lie flat. Once you unzip it and open it up, there’s no hidden corners or areas that users can’t see or access. 

lastly, there’s nothing more frustrating than reaching into and looking for something in a giant black hole of bag. I congratulate Topo Designs for keeping the bright yellow interior.  

Topo Designs 30L Travel Bag Pros:

• Goldilocks sized – not too big not too small
• Shoulder straps stow nicely
• Lots of handles
• Can attach other Topo Packs
• Design is both bomber and fun
• Waist strap is removable
• Sternum strap adjustable/removable
• Some hardware can be tough to manipulate
• 30L size probably won’t fit larger than 14″ laptop
• Foreign Made (although Topo does still produce several bags in the US – one of only a handful of manufacturers to do so)
• Premium pricing

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Topo Designs' travel backpack has replaced my roller suitcase as my go-to carry-on — here's why I recommend it

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• Carrying luggage is one of the least enjoyable parts of travel, so any way to lessen the load is a win. 
• The Topo Designs 30-Liter Travel Bag ($189) is a lighter, hands-free alternative to a roller-suitcase and easier to maneuver through airports and small spaces.
• The bag can be carried multiple ways and is roomy enough for a shorter trip while still being carry-on friendly and able to fit under an airplane seat.
• It also has plenty of pockets to keep all your travel essentials neatly organized inside.

Traveling is fun, but packing isn't quite as enjoyable. As a frequent traveler, I am often on the hunt for a good travel hack, and that often involves packing smarter and lighter. One thing I try to avoid at all costs is checking a bag before a flight because I don't want spend time waiting at the baggage claim (or worse, deal with lost luggage).  

While I love a good suitcase with spinner wheels for shorter trips, even the sleekest suitcase can be unwieldy and a pain to drag around during a long travel day. Plus, there's something to be said for being hands-free when you're trying to juggle your bag(s), phone, travel documents, and snacks for the plane all at once — or when you have to make a run for it to catch a tight connection. The solution: a carry-on-backpack, my new favorite travel companion.

The Topo Designs Travel Bag

The Topo Travel Bag comes in three colors (navy, black, and olive green) and two sizes ( 30 liters and 40 liters ). The material is a durable nylon with a water-repellent finish. At $189, it's more expensive than an entry-level suitcase, but more affordable than higher-end or trendy suitcase brands. Style-wise, it's an attractive backpack — sleek, compact, and colorful without being loud. In other words, it's an upgrade from the bulky backpack you used hostel-hopping through Europe after college.

Weight and style

But it's about more than form; the backpack has function too. One of the big advantages of a travel backpack is weight. The Topo 30L Travel Bag weighs about 42.4 ounces, or under 3 pounds. For comparison, my lightweight hardshell suitcase weighs around 6.5 pounds. On small planes or international flights, luggage weight is more important than size, so a few pounds can make a difference. And because the backpack doesn't have any additional hardware or frame built-in, there's no extra bulk to be carried around, and it's painless to maneuver in small spaces. The Topo 30L, even when full, easily fits under the plane seat in front of you, so if you find yourself stuck in the very last boarding group, there's no need to stress about fighting for overhead bin space. It's truly a carry-on.

Pockets for everything

Another pro of a travel backpack is pockets — for everything. Most suitcases have two big compartments with maybe a dividing pocket or two inside and one in front. The Topo Travel Bag has a main compartment, and two outside organizer pockets. As someone who likes to have a place for every little thing rather than throwing it all into one giant pocket, inevitably losing track of everything within seconds, the bag had more pockets than I knew what to do with.  

The Topo Travel Bag 30L is 14 inches wide by 20 inches high by 11 inches deep, and while it only looks slightly bigger than my everyday work backpack, it is surprisingly roomy. The main compartment has a u-shaped opening — it opens all the way flat, similar to a suitcase, making it easy to access and pack. Some backpacks require you to pack everything in from the top; the Topo Travel Backpack's design allows you to readily see everything. I had enough room to pack two pairs of shoes plus flip-flops, toiletries, electronics, and chargers, and about a week's worth of clothing. The main compartment also has two big zippered mesh pockets to hold additional items. There is enough structure in the main compartment that when packed full, the backpack doesn't become a lumpy mess and still holds a pretty firm rectangular shape.

The large front pocket also has a u-shaped opening plus a large zippered pocket that's big enough to fit books or magazines. Inside there are two additional smaller pockets that are deep enough to prevent any stored valuables from flying out when the backpack is thrown around. 

In addition, on the very front of the bag, there's a zippered organization pocket with a key ring and two zippered security pockets inside for things you want to access quickly, whether that be snacks, sunglasses, or other miscellaneous travel essentials. The heavy duty YKK zippers glide easily, and both the main compartment and large organizer pocket have zipper security loops to deter pickpockets.

In the back, there is a dedicated laptop sleeve that fits most 15-inch laptops. The backpack easily fits my 13-inch Macbook Pro with room to spare. 

Topo bags are all modular, and there are pack bags and dopp kits that easily fit inside. There are also bag attachment clips on the top and bottom of the Travel Bag 30L if you want to attach a smaller Topo backpack on top. The 30L also has a pass-through pocket in the back that can slide over suitcase handles if you are traveling with more luggage.

Versatile carrying options 

There are three ways to carry the Topo Travel Bag 30L : via the stowable shoulder strap, stowable backpack straps, or top and side handles. With a full bag, I personally think the weight with shoulder strap would get uncomfortable fairly quickly, but it's nice to have the option. I am, in general, a backpack person, so I use the those straps most frequently. I've carried it on foot (sometimes running) through towns, public transportation, and airports and ridden a bike with the bag on my back with zero problems. The padded back panel and shoulder straps make it very comfortable to carry, and it is designed well to sit on your shoulders and back without unnecessarily shifting around. There's also a sternum strap and removable waist belt if for a little extra support.

The one downside I found is that there is no external water bottle pocket, but I suppose since there are multiple ways to carry the bag, there is no set top and bottom, and it would be hard to have one pocket optimized for every carrying option.

The bottom line

The Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L is a great alternative to a traditional roller suitcase, especially for weekend or shorter trips or for travelers who like to be hands-free. Carrying a backpack makes it a breeze to get through airports quickly and eases the burden of having to schlep baggage across towns or hotels. 

The backpack is roomy enough to hold your travel essentials but still compact enough to fit under an airplane seat. Depending on your needs, there are multiple ways to carry the bag, and it has organization aplenty. Plus, it's just a attractive bag you won't mind having by your side.

Buy the Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L, $189, at REI and Topo

Buy the topo designs travel bag 40l, $229, at rei and topo.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30l - Black/black - 30 L › Customer reviews

Customer reviews.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30l - Black/black - 30 L

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• Trip Planning

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other carry-on backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and in the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy, has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 3 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

Aer Travel Pack 3 : This pack was comfortable to wear thanks to its supportively firm and cushioned back, while its rugged fabric stood up well to rough handling. Our tester subtracted some points for capacity, as it was a squeeze to get everything on the list to fit, and for the more function-forward style.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack : This bag is very nice to look at and proved quite durable. However, it's on the small side and the features aren't particularly travel-oriented—namely, the inflexible bottle holder and the magnetic flip top that is easily displaced when the pack is full.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag : Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

Monos Metro Backpack : Another looker, the design of this bag got high praise. We liked the 270-degree opening, the easy-release front pouch, and the comfortable straps. At 18 liters, this back is more of a complement piece to other luggage and could use a better weight distribution system.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable : The expansion feature was a hit once we figured out how to use it and the durability of this pack was undeniable. It was difficult to look past a faulty zipper design that got caught frequently when trying to close.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

The size of backpacks is generally measured in volume (liters) or dimensions (inches or centimeters). While it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying, a good starting point for a carry-on when flying domestically is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 total linear inches (115 centimeters) including all handles and wheels. This size comes out to a 43-liter pack, so anything smaller should easily meet any U.S. airline size restrictions. However, this is only the beginning, and several factors may increase or decrease your allowance, such as the size of the plane and flight class you book.

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

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Mosko Motos Gear Review: Reckless 80 Luggage System

If you are looking piss-off, excite, engage, or get a few un-friending’s in the motorcycle world, just go onto your preferred forum and ask what is better, Hard or soft luggage? My personal favorite is the Horizons Unlimited FB page. The Horizons page is a nice place to voice your opinions on all things adventure motorcycle related and get a face full of reason from all of the “experts” in the world. Truth be told, I go there all the time looking for advice. Then I try to wade through the opinions and flush out the facts. For my most recent Q&A, I went looking for soft luggage. I’ve used the hard stuff and now wanted soft. All roads from my research pointed to the fine folks at Mosko Moto and their incredibly innovated soft luggage systems. Sadly I paid full price for the Mosko Reckless 80 system, and am receiving zero compensation from Mosko for my opinion. You will, however, get a full product review based on my experiences and that of other motorcycle adventure “experts.”

Moskos Loaded From All Angles

MOSKO MOTOS. Who are they and why is there a lizard on my gear?

    Have you’ve ever sat around your day job gossiping about people who fell into success or just started doing something they loved and magically the universe conspired to turn them into a success story? I have, and quite frankly it winds me up.

Really, you just started selling shoes out of your trunk and now your NIKE.

All the while the rest of us seem to be crashing into one bad decision after another in the game of life. Well, the Mosko team came to life after a crash of their own, quite literally actually. As co-founder Pete Day was ridding around the far off regions of La Moskitia, Honduras he crashed his bike and ended back in the U.S. to heal up. It was there in the U.S. that Pete and his now partner Andrew Bryden brought to life the idea of high-quality, soft motorcycle luggage. As they say, the rest is history.

   Right, and the lizard. The lizard you might recognize as the spirit animal of Jesus himself. The Basilisk Lizard , as it’s more scientifically known, is also known as the Jesus Christ lizard as it can actually walk on water. I’m sure it’s either a roundabout way to relate the bags to a god-like status, or they are going to keep your bike a float in the event of an unwelcome bath while crossing a river. As for the name Mosko, it’s an abriviation of the word Mosquito Coast or La Moskita where this whole “twist of fate” was brought to reality.

A look Inside The Beavertail. Note The Clear & Zipper Pockets

The Mosko line up, a brief overview

   Mosko sells a variety of bags, accessories and luggage systems. Each one designed to fit a slightly different need. Whether you are looking for just a durable duffel, a waterproof tank bag, weekend warrior gear, round the world kit, or even a handy shovel for when its time for number two and there’s no loo !

• Scout 25L pannier kit. A quick-release pannier system with dual protection for aggressive back-country or off-road riding.
• Reckless 40 system. The weekend warriors set up. Designed with 40L of total storage from the two 15L side bags and 10L rear bag. Weighing in at 7lbs. Enough space to cover day trips, light camping, or pack your gear around when your hoteling it from place to place.
• Reckless 80 system. The end all for anyone looking to live off of their motorcycle. Designed with a full 80L of space from the two 25L side bags, 22L rear duffel, and 2x4L rear pockets. You could load up your 250cc, or nicely outfit anything from a 650cc-1200cc.
• Nomad tank bag. It’s a six-layer tank bag; it’s a hydration pack, it’s a backpack, it’ll even do your laundry! Ok, it won’t do your laundry, but seriously I don’t even want to try and cover all it can do. As a tank bag, wow!
• Mosko Deuce – Poop trowel. Looking to leave no trace for your backcountry camping? This product will put up with a lot of sh!t.

At the time of research Mosko sells 27 separate products, including bags you can add on, the full systems and a variety of moto-related luggage kit that will make other bikes jealous. For the complete list check out their sales page .

Alternate Beavertail Uses

Reckless 80 reviews. We go looking for weak points…

    Once you’ve tested a camping trip or two, did some weekend rides, and convinced yourself that the moto-life is the life for you. You’ll then need to kit-out your bike with gear that you can pack that new life into. Now there are indeed a wide variety of options out there. Giant Loop makes some sturdy setups like their Moto Trekk Panniers or their extra-strappy looking Round The World Panniers. There is Wolfman who puts out the “voluminous 36+ liters” Rocky Mountain Saddlebags as well as their Expedition Dry Saddlebags. To this list, you can add Ortlieb who dabbles in both bicycle luggage and motorcycle luggage and distributes their motorcycle line through Touratech. Notable mention should also be handed out to a few die-hard fans of Adventure Specs clumsy looking Magadan panniers, these were clearly not designed for the KTM or BMW crowd, but I’m sure they’re practical.

    Once you’ve stacked all these models side-by-side and compared looks, innovation, practicality, durability, and even choked a bit on the price. Mosko is still going to come out the overall winner, and it all comes down to design.

   The Reckless line-up acquired its name based off the pun rack-less, and the Reckless 80 was designed to work with or without a rack on anything from small two-strokes to big adventure bikes. Covering the riding spectrum from weekend getaways to full on RTW adventures. I think the idea here was to make adventure motorcycling the niche market, then apply it to everyone within that market. The luggage was designed as a double baggage system that has a high-abrasion 1680d ballistic nylon and water resistant exterior, that then has the internal 25L bags within it. The dry bags are made from an 800D polyurethane coated material, so even if you go skidding down the gravel on your side at 50MPH and shred a hole in the 1680d ballistic nylon, your inner bag should survive.

What MOLLE Gear Is Also Used For. Image: Jeff Gurwitch

Added to the front side of the saddlebags and top of the rear beavertail are MOLLE webbing panels made of Hypalon. What are MOLLE webbing panels you ask? MOLLE stands for MOdular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. These are what the military use to attach gear to each other easily. I find this clever on several fronts; one you can say you luggage uses military technology and Americans like to hear that things ae military worthly. Two, you can also add on a host of other MOLLE accessories you may have, like gear or camera bags. Three, Mosko can upsell you on additional gear for your luggage. Mosko has a video explaining the MOLLE bag attachments. I might note they are expert bag designers, but defiantly not in the video editing business 🙂

    Design

• Luggage system can be used on anything from a small two-stroke right up to sizeable 1200cc adventure bikes
• Double baggage system that utilizes 1680d ballistic nylon as the exterior. Incredibly durable
• Roll-top drybags are made from an 800D polyurethane coated material that is PVC free 
• Exterior MOLLE attachment points for easily adding MOLLE accessories from Mosko or anywhere that sells related attachments
• See-through windows on the 25L pannier bags to get a glimpse of where something might be

The Stinger 22 Dobles For Washing Laundry!

Tell me more!

Additional design features include a well thought out tail bag design, or as they refer to it as the “beavertail.” The beavertails main design function is to store the Stinger 22L storage bag. I like that the bag also has a Velcro backing to keep it from slipping around. The bag also turns into a backpack for times when you need to possible hike out of where your bike broke down or just as extra gear for grocery shopping. Inside the beavertail are three separate storage pouches. One medium and one small zipper pouches for items that don’t need protection from the weather, like sunscreen or granola bars. On the other side of the tail is a see-through pocket that can be removed. This removable feature is excellent for holding your documents for border crossings or for people that use paper maps. I don’t know anyone who uses paper maps, but I’m sure you’re out there somewhere. The tail can also be expanded to slide your jacket on top of your gear for hot riding days or to cram in more stuff than you need.

On the backside of the pannier bags are additional storage pouches with a volume of 4L each. The pockets were specifically designed to hold two, 1L MSR fuel bottles on each side. Naturally, you can put anything you want in here from tools to food. I store my tent between both sides as well as one MSR bottle. They even tossed in a lightweight 20L drybag for putting wet clothes in to keep them separate from your other gear. The dry bag or Stinger bag can also double for clothes washing if you feel so inclined to do a bit of backcountry laundry with biodegradable soap.

Rear Storage Pockets

Even the strapping system has been cleverly designed. Mosko uses small aluminum bars to attach straps to the luggage. If you break a strap, you can easily replace one strap without trying to get it sewn back onto the luggage. The strap replacement is one advantage over something like a Wolfman bag. If you break a Wolfman strap, you’ll need to buy a replacement directly from them, here you can just fix the strap in the next town and move on. The aluminum bars are also a great feature if you’ve run a strap under a hard luggage case on the tail and don’t want to take the box off to remove the Mosko luggage. Just slip out the aluminum bar, remove the one strap, slide the bar back in and take off the Mosko system. I run my bags across the passenger seat and the rear strap under the top box, the strap keeps the bags from sliding forward.

Additional Features

• Expandable “Beavertail” that allows space to hold your jacket as well as gear
• Beavertail storage pouches for day use items and quick access documents
• 2x 4L rear storage bags for anything from fuel to tools
• 20L lightweight drybag for wet gear or laundry
• Easily replaceable straps via aluminum placement bars opposed to direct stitching
• Rear bracket hole for rear fuelling bikes
• 11.3lbs total weight for Reckless system
• Included “universal” heat shield to protect from exhaust heat

As far as the weak points are concerned I haven’t found many of my own. I switched from Pelican hard cases that opened from the side allowed me to view and access tools and equipment easily. The dry bags are long and narrow, and to keep the weight low I opted to put the tools on the bottom and clothes and gear on the top. If I need to access anything on the bottom, it requires taking out all of the top gear first. Though I’m sure over time or with the addition of a MOLLE bag, this can be resolved.

I also noticed after storing copies of my insurence and registration in the velcro-held clear map holder, that after a hefty rain storm the documents were soaked. I’m sure a ziploc-style zipper would keep them dry, but probably also break after some time. Another contrasting differnece to soft over hard bags on a RTW adventure, is the mental feeling of false security provided by locked hard bags is much better than easy to steal soft bags. Mosko sells lockable steal straps, but I feel that looking at hard bags VS soft bags, soft looks more vulnerable and the reality is if someone wants something they’ll get it.

Mosko Heat Sheild Along With My Panama Sovenier Licence Plate Heat Sheild

Online reviewers pointed out considerably higher positive reviews than negative; however there were some repetitive negative points. Reviewers felt that although you don’t technically need to use racks on the bike, without them, on some models, you will find that the bags get too close to the exhaust and melt. Also depending on your tail end, you might find it’s too narrow to support the bag properly and results in rubbing holes through the material. Naturally, these issues can be addressed through heat shields (Mosko does provide a “universal” one), as well as adding on additional wear materials to your luggage or covering up wear points on your bike. If you want to see the full benefits from Mosko they have a dedicated Reckless 80 video .

All The Wrong Ways To Use Your Mosko Gear!

Behind the scenes. How I acquired my Mosko Reckless 80’s and how they worked

    Not many events occur in my life the normal or natural way and almost always have a backstory. To acquire the Reckless 80 was no different. Having ridden from Canada to South America on my KLR with a full set of Pelican cases all around, and having broke the frame at various points due to the weight, I knew I would need to shed some pounds. I consulted various online forums and narrowed down what I wanted to the Reckless ’80s. At the time I was in the Amazon in Brazil with a broken rear shock (hence the weight), my girlfriend was flying into Santiago Chile to meet me in a couple of weeks, and a motorcycle tour company in Bolivia wanted to buy my Pelican cases. This situation is what is known as an international motorcycle issue.

   The choices were to convince the girlfriend to bring me this massive luggage system even though I suggested she not to pack much in the way of personal items for her visit. Doing this would require paying Canadian import taxes from the U.S. shipment and riding from Bolivia to Chile with all my stuff tied on in garbage bags. As well as explaining to the G.F. why it was essential to bring me a bunch of bulky gear while her stuff needed to fit into 10L drybag! I’m good a sales pitches but not that good. The other option was to have the bags sent from Mosko in the U.S. to the tour company in Bolivia and do the swap there. I was familiar with the postal system in Bolivia and although I could probably convince customs to let me pay a minimal amount of taxes, the chances of actually getting the bags in the country in under two months was unlikely. Option three required a bit of leg work but it magically presented itself.

Although Mosko does not have dealers, I found a company in Lima Peru selling Mosko gear and offered to ship me the 80’s from Lima to the border with Peru and Bolivia. Why he is selling Mosko gear I have no idea, I wanted a problem solved, and he could solve it, so I didn’t ask. My friend at the tour company had a friend in La Paz who needed some gear from Lima too. It just so happened that the equipment he needed was from a guy I knew who had worked on my bike after a little Peruvian crash earlier in the year. The guy I knew picked up the 80’s from the dealer, the packages were then promptly sent to the wrong city in Peru, and with a bit more mucking around, and a lot of exchanged messages with Spanish swear words mixed in. My 80’s eventually arrived at my friend’s at the Bolivian tour company. The tour company then purchased 2 of 3 of my Pelicans, and the trip continued without a hiccup. Sort of…

Luggage System Comes Off Easy For Flat Tire Dramas  

  Day two with my new soft luggage would be my first test of their ease of use. En route to the Solar near Uyuni Bolivia, I would have my first ever rear flat. I’ve had a number of front flats, but this was the first rear. I had fit a smaller profile knobby tire to the bike to get me through the mucky Amazon in Brazil along with a 4mm thick tube. This combination proved fatal, and I had rubbed/melted the tube to itself on at least seven points inside the tube. Once we were out of the warm parts of Brazil and Bolivia, a cold night in the mountains had separated the tube from itself and exposed all the holes. Just outside of Potosi Bolivia I would notice the flat. Not feeling great about leaving my bike and all it’s gear roadside while I went to get a tire fixed that I was unable to remove with my tools. I unstrapped the Stinger 22 and used it as the backpack it was intended. I also wanted my side bags but was running out of hands, so I unstrapped the whole system and threw it over my shoulder.

I was also carrying a rear spare on the bike to replace the knobby once I made it to Santiago and had more time. It seemed now was the time. I grabbed the spare tire, tire half on the rim, along with the full luggage system and walked across the highway to hitch a ride. Luckily the first car to come by picked up me, my two tires, my Stinger backpack, and full pannier setup and drove me around Potosi to acquire a new tube and get the rear fixed. *Note hecklers; I was carrying a 2mm spare, compressor, and irons. I could not get the tire off with the irons, so after about an hour of trying, I opted to grab my gear and hitch a ride.

As far as ease of use and practical, real-world experience, I was happy with how easy it was to grab my stuff and go. Looking back, I would have just left everything on the bike with hard boxes though you can’t have both worlds. I could have also covered the bike with my tarp, and it would have probably been fine. Over time I’m sure I’ll ease into the best way about leaving behind soft gear when you need to. No matter how you look at it, Mosko still has my vote.

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