Best Selling Backpacks 2019
A Review of the Top-Selling Backpacks on Amazon
Looking to buy a backpack? It’s not surprising if you’re having a hard time deciding on which one to go for. There’s seemingly unlimited options available on the market, and each one has its array of benefits and disadvantages.
Should you buy the one that is cheaper? Or is it best to invest on a name brand? Continue reading to learn more about choosing the right backpack for your needs.
Quick Navigation
Best Overall Backpack: SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Backpack
Runner Up: High Sierra Loop Backpack
Best Carry On Backpack: Hynes Eagle 38L Carry-On Backpack
Runner Up: eBags TLS Mother Lode Travel Backpack
Best Hiking Backpack: Osprey Atmos AG 65
Runner Up: TETON Sports Scout 3400 Backpack
Best Day Hike Backpack: Mubasel Gear Insulated Hydration Backpack
Runner Up: Venture Pal 35L Hiking Daypack
Best Travel Backpack: Osprey Porter 46 Travel Backpack
Runner Up: OutdoorMaster Hiking & Travel Backpack
How to Choose the Right Backpack
Conclusion
Check Out These Top-Selling Backpacks on Amazon
When shopping online, it’s a good idea to choose the top-rated and top-selling products because they will more likely satisfy you. However, you still have a lot to choose from. The following reviews will help you decide on which backpack to choose.
Image | Name | Features | Size | Check price |
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Backpack | Best Overall Backpack 13.5" x 9" x 18.5" ScanSmart laptop pocket Fits laptops up to 17" | 31 liters | ![]() |
![]() | High Sierra Loop Backpack | Runner up Best Overall Backpack 13.5" x 8.5" x 19" Tablet sleeve Multiple compartments | 35 liters | ![]() |
![]() | Hynes Eagle 38L Carry-on Backpack | Best Carry On Backpack 13" x 7.9" x 19.7" Compression straps Organizer pockets | 38 liters | ![]() |
![]() | eBags TLS Mother Lode Backpack | Runner Up Best Carry on Backpack 14" x 9" x 22" Lockable zippers Laptop up to 19" | 45 liters | ![]() |
![]() | Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpack | Best Hiking Backpack Anti-gravity suspension Zippered front pockets Sleeping bag compartment | 65 liters | ![]() |
![]() | TETON Sports Scout 3400 Backpack | Runner up Best Hiking Backpack Internal frame Multiple compartments Adjustable straps | 55 liters | ![]() |
![]() | Mubasel Gear Hydration Backpack | Best Day Hike Backpack 2L internal BPA free bladder 3 storage compartments Adjustable waist straps | ![]() |
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![]() | Venture Pal 35L Daypack | Runner up Best Day hike Backpack 13" x 7.5" x 20" Lightweight Compact | 35 liters | ![]() |
![]() | Osprey Porter 46L Backpack | Best Travel Backpack 15" x 8" x 23" Straightjacket compression Laptop sleeve Stowaway harnesses | 46 liters | ![]() |
![]() | OutdoorMaster 50L Travel Backpack | Runner up Best Travel Backpack 15" x 8.5" x 23" Waterproof rain cover Holds 15.6" laptop | 50 liters | ![]() |
Best Overall Backpack
SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Backpack
The best backpack is the one that you can carry wherever you go and serves multiple purposes.
Whether you’re heading to work, school, or a short trip, the SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Backpack is a perfect companion.
Features
- Dedicated sleeve that can fit laptops up to 17 inches
- Made from 1200D polyester fabric
- Airflow ventilation technology
- ScanSmart lay-flat technology
- Protective TabletSafe tablet pocket
- Several internal and one side accessory pockets
- Water bottle pocket
- Front quick-access pocket
- Reflective material on the shoulder straps
Pros:
- Extra roomy
This fully-featured backpack is not only made for carrying laptops of all sizes. The extra-roomy compartments can accommodate all your gears for a weekend trip. - Well padded
The padded back panel, contoured shoulder straps, and built-in suspension guarantee to keep you comfortable even when you’re carrying a heavy load. - Well ventilated
The AirFlow ventilation technology keeps your back cool when you need to carry this backpack for an extended period of time. - Durable
The durable 1200D fabric it’s made of, this pack can maintain a near-perfect look even after years of regular use. - Quality zippers
With oversized zippers, opening and closing the compartments is smooth, and you’ll never have to worry about them getting stuck or caught on fabric. The reflective material is an added safety feature for when you’re out at night. - ScanSmart technology
For frequent flyers, its TSA-friendly feature – the ScanSmart lay-flat technology – will allow you to keep your laptop inside the bag for TSA scanning.
Cons:
- Weighty
The trade-off for this backpack’s durability is weight. At more than 3 lbs., it’s heavier than most backpacks of the same size. - Does stand up by itself
Due to its shape, the backpack doesn’t stand when put on the ground, which may annoy some. - In addition, the ScanSmart technology will not work if something else is placed in the laptop-only sleeve.
Runner Up For Best Overall Backpack
High Sierra Loop Backpack
A versatile backpack, the High Sierra Loop Backpack is perfect for work, in the office, adventure on the trail, or your daily commute.
Features
- Multi-compartment design with multiple pockets
- TechSpot tablet sleeve
- Bottom and side compression straps
- Mesh beverage pockets
- Contoured and padded shoulder straps
Pros:
- Plenty of Room
The High Sierra Loop Backpack has generous compartments and pockets that can accommodate all your essential gears and keep them organized. - TechSpot tablet sleeve
The dedicated TechSpot sleeve is fully padded, ensuring that your tablet is protected. This bag comes in a variety of colors and print so you can choose one that fits your style. - Compression straps
When used for hiking trips, the adjustable bottom compression straps secure gears and provide option for carrying larger items such as tent and sleeping bag. Side compression straps are placed strategically so they help hold larger water bottles. The shoulder straps are easy to adjust and make carrying weight comfortable. - Durable
You can carry heavy items without worrying about wear and tear because this bag is made from durable materials.
Cons:
- Looks Cheap
While this bag proves to be sturdy, the fabric looks cheap, which might be disappointing. - Side pockets are small
The beverage side pockets are a bit small and too tight that cramming a water bottle into it takes effort. - Ease of access
And while the main compartment is roomy, the opening isn’t wide enough, so putting or removing large items is difficult.
Best Carry-on Backpack
Hynes Eagle 38L Carry-on Backpack
This backpack from Hynes Eagle fits the maximum size allowed to carry on an IATA flight. You can easily place it on the overhead compartment or under the seat.
Features
- Hide-away shoulder straps
- Four side compression straps
- Roomy main compartment
- Front organizer pockets
- Multiple carrying options
- Adjustable sternum strap
Pros:
- Easy to carry
With top and side handles, this carry-on backpack allows you to carry it in three ways. Unlike normal backpacks, the shoulder straps can be hidden behind a fabric panel so they don’t get in the way when carried as a duffel bag. The flat front makes it easy to store. - Lightweight
Because it’s made of canvas, it is lightweight and doesn’t take much of your carry-on luggage weight allowance. - Easy access
Designed to open like a regular luggage, you can easily pack or dig through your stuff without jumbling your carefully arranged items. The front pockets allow for quick access to your passport and other documents. The roomy main compartment fits several days’ worth of clothes. And if you’re a light packer, this carry-on bag is perfect for even a month-long trip. - Superior design
Compared to other carry-on backpacks, the design of Hynes Eagle 38L Backpack is superior making your travel experience more enjoyable.
Cons:
- Lack of interior compartments
There are not much interior compartments and pockets so you may need to use packing cubes to organize your stuff or buy the optional containers. - Zipper quality
The quality of the zippers is not that great and the sliders may come off after some use. - Straps are a little short
Straps may be too short for taller people (6’ and above) and due to lack of hip belt, some may find carrying it uncomfortable when fully-loaded.
Runner Up Best Carry-on Backpack
eBags TLS Mother Lode Travel Backpack
This award-winning backpack has been recognized for its design, materials, and value. Ever since its introduction in the market, this bag has only gotten better.
Features
- Converts from backpack to suitcase
- Internal zippered mesh panel
- Full expansion zipper adding 10% of space for packing
- Zippers with lockable rings for security
- Dedicated sleeve that can fit laptops up to 19 inches
- Removable adjustable sternum strap
Pros:
- Plenty of room
This bag has enough room to accommodate all your gears for a week-long trip and still qualify as a carry-on luggage. - Internal compartments
There are enough internal compartments to keep your things organized. Just like a regular suitcase, its main compartment has straps to keep the items you pack in place, and opens all the way for easy packing and unpacking. - Separate laptop pocket
The laptop pocket and the top pocket for liquids are designed for easy access so you don’t need to rifle through you bag and you’ll be able to get through security check much faster and with less effort. - Good load support
With the backpack fully loaded, the sternum strap is capable of lifting some of the weight from your shoulders for comfort. - Expansion zipper
With the expansion zipper, you can have more space if ever you need it.
Cons:
- Too big for small aircraft lockers
For some smaller aircraft, it may be too big to be placed under the seat or the overhead bin. - Buckle quality
The buckles are also of lesser quality and it’s not uncommon for them to break. - Side beverage strap
The side beverage pocket could also be a design flaw as it doesn’t hold a water bottle firmly.
Best Hiking Backpack
Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpack
Offering outstanding carrying comfort and ventilation, the Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a favorite among savvy long-distance hikers.
Features
- Anti-Gravity (AG) suspension system
- Removable top lid
- Dual zippered front pockets
- Side compression straps to stabilize the load and for strapping external gear
- Stow-on-the-Go designed to quickly attach trekking poles while wearing the pack
- Adjustable hip belt and harness
- Has a woman-specific equivalent – the Osprey Aura AG 65
Pros:
- AG suspension system
The best feature of this backpack is its suspension system. The AG system is made up of continuous sheet of mesh padding that extends from the hip belt to the top of the back panel, providing unbeatable comfort and ventilation. It makes lugging a heavy load so much easier. - Adjustable hip belts
The hip belt can be adjusted easily. With just the right amount of padding, it won’t protrude to your hips, causing no pain. - Easy access
The side pockets have dual access; one opening is pointed up and the other is towards you. This means that you’ll be able to grab your water bottle without taking a strap off – one common issue among hiking backpacks. The removable lid means that you can shave some weight off the bag if you want to. - Lifetime warranty
This backpack is covered by a lifetime guarantee; Osprey will fix or replace it anytime, even after years of use in the trail.
Cons:
- Long and Narrow shape
The long and narrow structure of this backpack, while perfect for when you’re actually doing hikes, makes packing and unpacking more difficult. - Water bottle position
Although the dual-access side pockets allow for easy access, your water bottle might jab you on the side due to the positioning angle. - Weight
At almost 4 lbs., this bag isn’t the heaviest on the market and there are other much lighter options for the price point.
Runner Up Best Hiking Backpack
TETON Sports Scout 3400 Backpack
Designed for beginners or quick backpacking trips, the TETON Sports Scout 3400 has been one of the top-selling internal frame backpacks on Amazon for several years.
This is also perfect for avid hikers who don’t want to spend a lot on their backpack.
Features
- Capacity of 55 liters or 3400 cubic inches
- Side pockets, multi-directional compression straps, and gear loops for easy organization of gears
- Bungee storage for items you want to access quickly
- Dedicated sleeping bag compartment
- Sewn-in rainfly
- Torso adjustments to fit different body sizes
Pros:
- Great value for the money
Considering the price point, this bag is of excellent quality. - Durable and long lasting
It’s extremely durable and can withstand rough conditions in the wild. While it’s more of a beginner’s backpack, it can survive several years of use in the outdoors. - Ideal shape for hiking
The narrow build makes squeezing through tight sections of the trail easier. - Adjustable sizing
The pack is totally adjustable and can fit an eight-year old to a fully grown man. If you know how to pack and adjust the straps properly, this bag can provide excellent back and hip support.
Cons:
- Side pocket size
The side pockets are a bit tight and could barely fit a Nalgene bottle. Their position also makes removing or returning a water bottle difficult when wearing the pack. - Cleaning
When washing this backpack, it’s best not to take the frame bars out because getting them back is hard.
Best Day Hike Backpack
Mubasel Gear Insulated Hydration Backpack
This hydration backpack from Mubasel Gear is perfect for day-long outdoor adventures.
Aside from hiking, this is also suitable for cycling and running.
Features
- Insulated bladder compartment
- With three storage compartments and front stretch mesh pockets
- Padded breathable shoulder straps and adjustable waist straps
- Made from water-resistant durable material
- Includes a two-liter BPA-Free hydration bladder
Pros:
- Large insulated bladder
The large insulated bladder compartment of this backpack ensures that you can carry enough water on your hike that stays cool after six or seven hours in the sun. It also keeps water from freezing easily when used during winter. - Durable and long lasting
The bag is made of durable material that can withstand being dragged through dirt and general abuse on the trail. The soft padding feels good on the back and waist. The snug fit on the body makes for a comfortable hike. - Storage compartments
Storage compartments are of proper size, enabling you to carry all your hiking needs while keeping you from bringing the non-essentials. The front mesh pocket can accommodate extra gears such as a rain gear or other larger items. Pockets on the hip belt can fit your phone and wallet, a small first aid kit, and some snacks.
Cons:
- Ineffective whistle
While there is a whistle integrated on the sternum strap buckle, the effort it takes to make a loud-enough whistling noise is too much. - Cleaning the hydration bladder
The included hydration bladder, while of good quality, requires some redesign for easy rinsing and refilling. - Loose straps annoying
Others, especially those of smaller build, may find the dangling straps from adjustments annoying to deal with.
Runner Up Best Day Hike Backpack
Venture Pal 35L Hiking Backpack
This best-selling lightweight backpack is suitable not only for day hiking but also for vacation, school, shopping and short trips.
Features
- Made with water and tear resistant material
- Bar-tacks at major stress points and double-layer bottom
- Padded mesh shoulder straps
- Whistle buckle on the sternum strap
- Main compartment with two separators
- Lightweight (0.7 lbs.)
- Packable (folds into its own pocket)
Pros:
- Ample room
At 35 liters, the Venture Pal backpack provides ample room for all your day hiking needs. There are enough internal and external pockets to make organization convenient and storage handy. - Durable
The double-layer bottom and bar-tacks provide extra strength and enhances longevity, so you can take more load on your journey without having to worry about tearing your backpack. - Folds into its own pocket
If you’re traveling, you can easily stuff it inside your main backpack as it is packable. Folding it into its zippered pocket doesn’t take much effort and unfolding takes mere seconds. - Can carry a hydration bladder
Although this bag is not hydration-compatible, one of the compartments in the main chamber can house a 2L bladder. The double zippers allow for the tube to sit well when closed on the top.
Cons:
- Cleaning
The material doesn’t stand up well to washing; the water resistant material tends to peel off the fabric after a few washes. - No support or padding
This is not suited for those who are looking for a pack that provides support. Since it’s designed to be packable, the straps have little padding and the bag itself doesn’t have any.
Best Travel Backpack
Osprey Porter 46L Travel Backpack
The Osprey Porter 46 is a versatile, mid-sized backpack that is big enough to carry your travel gear, but small enough for use as a carry-on.
Features
- Stowaway harness and hip belt
- StraightJacket protection
- Top pocket organization for liquids and toiletries
- Lockable laptop sleeve
- Zips all the way down
Pros:
- Easy access
The ability to unzip this backpack all the way down makes it easier for you to pack or take out anything without having to rummage through your stuff. - Plenty of compartments
The front pockets have several small compartments for more organizational options. The laptop sleeve is lockable and the zippers are designed for easy lock integration, providing security for all your gear. - Straps stow away
When checking the Porter during flights, the harness and hip belt can be easily stowed for safekeeping. The StraightJacket feature (compression straps with sidewalls that are padded) can significantly reduce the bag to carry-on size and protect its contents. - Can be used for hiking
Although it’s not designed for hiking, this pack still offers decent suspension and ventilation so your back won’t suffer and you won’t sweat as much if you find yourself doing long walks.
Cons:
- Too big for carry on if filled
While this bag is carry-on compatible, its relatively larger size compared to others in this category means that it’s not always carry-on compliant. Whether you’ll need to check it in or not depends on the airline’s restrictions. - No hydration pockets
Some may find the lack of side hydration pocket disappointing. - Better suited to men
Although advertised as unisex, the design fits better on men.
Runner Up Best Travel Backpack
OutdoorMaster Hiking & Travel Backpack
This lightweight and spacious backpack is also great for hiking, which means that it’s the only backpack that you’ll need when traveling.
Features
- Made from lightweight but durable materials
- S-curved shoulder straps
- Padded hip belt
- Padded compartment that can fit laptop up to 15.6 inches
- With lots of pockets
- Includes a waterproof rain cover
- Several colors to choose from
Pros:
- Good value for your money
This is a definite bang for the buck backpack offering plenty of features for its price point. - Lightweight
At 2.4 lbs., it is considered lightweight but definitely well-built and the design is functional. The S-curved shoulder straps and pads distribute weight efficiently, so you’re free from shoulder pains when you’re carrying the pack. - Roomy with plenty of compartments
The generous main compartment can accommodate all your gears for a week-long travel. Outside pockets allow easy-access for small stuff such as wallet, passport, phone, and keys. The side hydration pockets are also roomy. - Built in rain cover
Unlike other backpacks in the same price range that include rain cover, this one is actually waterproof and keeps the pack perfectly dry. - Structural support
When under-loaded, its padded laptop compartment provides structure without the extra weight of an internal frame.
Cons:
- Not designed to carry a lot of weight
While it has plenty of features for a hiking backpack, it’s not for serious or long outdoor activities because it’s not designed to carry that much weight. - Smaller than advertised
It’s also a lot smaller than its advertised size, more like a 38-liter than a 50-liter pack. But this size makes it carry-on compatible. - No front zipper
Lacking a front zipper, access to the main compartment is only from the top so you’ll have to completely unpack if you need to get something underneath.
How To Choose The Right Backpack For Your Needs
These are the things that you should consider when shopping for a new backpack:
1. Purpose –
Before you even browse for backpacks online, make the purpose of your planned purchase clear first. If you want a backpack that can save you baggage fees, then choose from the carry-on compliant selection. In the same manner, go for a hiking-specific backpack if you’ll be using it for camping or hiking.
2. Size –
Your backpack should be big enough to carry all the things you intend to put into it. Never buy one that is too big for your intended purpose. Thinking that it will allow space for some “what-if” items, you’ll more likely end up carrying heavy things that you’ll never use on your trip.
3. Details –
Just because a bag is designed for travel doesn’t mean that it’s already what you should choose. Different backpacks have different features even when they serve the same purpose.
Do you want a travel backpack that makes packing and unpacking a breeze? Choose the one that is designed to open like a suitcase. Do you want a hiking daypack that you can easily stuff inside your luggage? Then, select from the wide variety of packable day hiking backpacks.
4. Price –
How much are you willing to spend for a backpack? If you’re on a budget, then stay on your budget. While it’s true that you get what you pay for, price doesn’t always guarantee quality. And a bargain doesn’t necessarily compromise durability and style.