Best under seat backpack?

[blabbermouth]

Looking to get a new travel backpack. It doesn't need to be a full carry on size, just big enough for flight essentials and maybe a swimsuit or small change of clothes. I like lots of pockets/organization. I don't really want an "Amazon brand", but also have it be somewhat reasonable. Any suggestions?

 

[elvispursley]

We have an REI day pack that’s quite handy. Has elastic mesh side poclets for water bottles and vented padded back I case you bring a laptop/ipad. And REI has. Liftetime warranty on all REI-brand products.

 

[EACarlson]

I'd look at the Motherlode backpacks at Ebags. There are a few different sizes to choose from so you can find what fits your needs. Very well made and you can usually find a deal on them.

 

[Ralph&Pam]

I like some of the Rick Steves daypacks/backpack options: https://www.ricksteves.com/shop. Just got an email that there’s currently a sale, so some possible savings.

 

[blabbermouth]

I'd look at the Motherlode backpacks at Ebags. There are a few different sizes to choose from so you can find what fits your needs. Very well made and you can usually find a deal on them.

Oh man, they are all half price on their US site, but they don't ship to Canada and you can only buy them on Amazon and they are all over $200.

 

[sandam1]

This might be bigger than what you are looking for, but it does have a ton of pockets.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09HXPFSCS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've used it for a number of trips at this point and it is fantastic (and the cost was reasonable).

 

[theMoreDisneytheBetter]

Define “reasonable.” Eg Tom Bihn makes an outstanding product and they have great organization, but they are priced like they are made in America in small batches by fairly paid workers.

My go to travel backpack is an Osprey that I picked up at REI (currently there is a 20% off members sale going on). My work/commuter bag is a Belroy, that I got used from Amazon. I have a couple of cheap travel duffels that I use as a gym bag but can also travel with, and just bought myself an Away Everywhere Bag from eBay (used) because I make bad decisions when my insomnia is bad. I like it but I think I prefer having a backpack to something on my roller bag.

The next backpack I buy will probably be sized for 3-4 days (40-50L) due to a couple of trips where a rolling suitcase would be inconvenient. I have one like that from eBags but the quality isn’t great and once again I’m not sleeping that well.

 

[blabbermouth]

Define “reasonable.” Eg Tom Bihn makes an outstanding product and they have great organization, but they are priced like they are made in America in small batches by fairly paid workers.

My go to travel backpack is an Osprey that I picked up at REI (currently there is a 20% off members sale going on). My work/commuter bag is a Belroy, that I got used from Amazon. I have a couple of cheap travel duffels that I use as a gym bag but can also travel with, and just bought myself an Away Everywhere Bag from eBay (used) because I make bad decisions when my insomnia is bad. I like it but I think I prefer having a backpack to something on my roller bag.

The next backpack I buy will probably be sized for 3-4 days (40-50L) due to a couple of trips where a rolling suitcase would be inconvenient. I have one like that from eBags but the quality isn’t great and once again I’m not sleeping that well.

Hahaha. This was great. I would say under $200. I haven't heard of Tom Bihn, but I'm looking now!

 

[Shelly F - Ohio]

Target for $40 the Embark

Jartop Elite 17.5" Backpack - Embark™​

has lots of pockets and will fit even it you stuff full.

 

[Lewisc]

Check your airline. ULCC including Frontier and Spirit have low limits. They don't want pax "cheating" them from paying fees.

https://www.amazon.com/Airlines-Personal-Foldable-Overnight-1112-Black/dp/B0BLVM4PCZ?ref_=ast_sto_dp

Search Narwey if the link doesn’t work. The bag is available with and without a shoulder strap. The quality is OK. It fits alot.

 

[han22735]

My wife and daughter love this brand...not cheap but good quality and options.

https://beistravel.com/collections/all

 

[Lewisc]

If you're dealing with an ULCC, and want to maximize capacity with a backpack check gonex. Available at Amazon.

PP gave you good options if you're using a real airline and are going to use it alot.

My suggestions are for pax who need to maximize packing space and plan on occasional use.

Weekly business flyers should look at more expensive bags

 

[StarSeven7]

For organization, I like Lug brand bags. We have a messenger-style Lug bag that my husband uses as his personal item and I use an Osprey backpack that I also really like.

 

[geargrinder]

I've recently switched to an Osprey Daylite+

It's super comfortable to wear all day in the park and fits easily under airline seats. I especially like that it securely fits a 40oz hydroflask.

 

[japanese maple]

Does it need to be a backpack? I have a great tote style carry on. Very roomy, two inside zipper pockets, zips closed and really stays on your shoulder. Holds more than you would think.

 

[jec6613]

TravelPro sells both backpacks, but also under-seat rollaboards. You might not consider the price reasonable, but they're very durable so for a heavy user they're a great value.

 

[blabbermouth]

Does it need to be a backpack? I have a great tote style carry on. Very roomy, two inside zipper pockets, zips closed and really stays on your shoulder. Holds more than you would think.
View attachment 843570

Yes! I always pack too much and a shoulder bag is too heavy. Plus always slipping off when helping my kid etc.

TravelPro sells both backpacks, but also under-seat rollaboards. You might not consider the price reasonable, but they're very durable so for a heavy user they're a great value.

I find travelpro well priced and all of my luggage is travelpro!

I ended up getting the same backpack as my husband from Eddie Bauer. Haven't used to yet, but the sale price was really good and it appears very well made!

 

[geargrinder]

I agree with anything Travelpro. Wife and I have Platinum Elite Carry-on's. Definitely worth the price.