Whether you’re flying budget or splurging on a city getaway, the best backpack for a 3-day trip should hit the sweet spot: big enough for clothes, toiletries, and maybe a laptop, but light and compact enough to skip checked baggage.
The right pack keeps you organized, comfortable, and stress-free—without draining your wallet or forcing you into overkill gear.
In this guide, we review seven of the top backpacks, highlight their pros and cons, compare them side by side, and wrap up with a buyer’s guide plus FAQs so you can pick the perfect match for your travel style.
Let’s get started!
Quick Summary: Best Backpacks For A 3-Day Trip
- Peak Design Travel Backpack (35–45L) — Best Overall
- Osprey Farpoint 40L — Best for Comfort
- Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L — Best for Organization
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L — Best Sustainable Choice
- Fjällräven Ulvö 30 — Best for Minimalists
- MATEIN Carry-On Backpack — Best Budget Pick
- LOVEVOOK Travel Backpack 40L — Best Amazon Value
Backpack Comparison Table
| Backpack | Capacity | Best For | Price Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Design Travel Backpack | 35–45L | Overall versatility | $$$ |
| Osprey Farpoint 40L | 40L | Comfort | $$ |
| Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro | 40L | Organization | $$$ |
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | 35L | Sustainable choice | $$ |
| Fjällräven Ulvö 30 | 30L | Minimalists | $$ |
| MATEIN Carry-On Backpack | 40L | Budget pick | $ |
| LOVEVOOK Travel Backpack | 40L | Amazon value | $ |
How We Chose
Picking a backpack for a 3-day trip isn’t just about grabbing the first 40-liter bag you see. We looked at a mix of practical and nerdy details to make sure these picks actually work for real travelers:
- Size & Capacity (30–45L): Big enough for clothes, toiletries, and a laptop, but still within carry-on limits.
- Comfort: Padded straps, hip belts, and suspension systems matter if you’ll be walking through airports or city streets.
- Durability: We favored tough fabrics (nylon, polyester, waterproof coatings) and reliable zippers (YKK where possible).
- Organization: Multiple compartments, clamshell openings, and pockets that actually make packing easier.
- Weight & Portability: Lighter packs are easier to carry, but we balanced that with sturdiness.
- Price & Value: From budget Amazon bestsellers to premium travel gear, we picked options at different tiers so there’s something for everyone.
The goal: backpacks that make a 3-day trip simpler, not more stressful.
7 Best Backpacks For 3 Days Reviewed
Packing for a 3-day trip is all about balance—you need space for clothes, toiletries, and maybe a laptop, but without hauling around a bulky pack. That’s why the sweet spot is usually 30–45 liters: enough to fit the essentials, small enough to keep as carry-on.
We’ve picked seven backpacks that do this well. Some focus on comfort, others on clever organization, and a few deliver solid value without breaking the bank.
Below you’ll find mini reviews with pros, cons, and who each bag really suits—so you can skip the guesswork and pick the right travel partner.
Peak Design Travel Backpack (35–45L Expandable) – Best Overall
Specs: 35–45L capacity (expandable), 4.5 lbs, weatherproof 400D recycled nylon, multiple access points.
If you want one backpack that adapts to almost any type of 3-day trip, the Peak Design Travel Backpack is the most versatile option here. Its biggest strength is flexibility. At 35 liters, it meets carry-on limits for most airlines and keeps you from overpacking.
But if you need extra space—for souvenirs, bulkier jackets, or an extra pair of shoes—you can expand it to 45 liters with a simple zip. That makes it equally useful for city breaks, work trips, or even a minimalist hiking adventure.
The access points are another highlight. You can open it from the side, top, or back, which means you won’t be digging endlessly for your phone charger or passport. The materials are premium: recycled nylon with weatherproof coating, YKK zippers, and solid stitching. It’s the type of bag that feels built to last.
Comfort is decent, though a little heavier than some 40L packs, and the price is on the higher end. It’s not overloaded with organizer pockets, which may bother neat freaks, but the modular design pairs well with packing cubes.
Pros:
- Expandable from 35L to 45L.
- Multiple access points for easy packing.
- Durable, weatherproof materials.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to most.
- Heavier than Osprey or Cotopaxi.
- Limited built-in small pockets.
Best for: Travelers who want one premium backpack that adapts to every 3-day trip.
Osprey Farpoint 40L Travel Backpack – Best for Comfort
Specs: 40L capacity, 3.5 lbs, 210D Nylon, clamshell opening, padded harness system.
The Osprey Farpoint 40 has been a travel classic for years, and it’s still one of the most comfortable carry-on-sized backpacks around. If you’ve ever regretted dragging a suitcase through cobblestone streets, this bag is your solution.
The harness system is essentially borrowed from Osprey’s hiking packs: padded shoulder straps, a hip belt to take the load off your back, and a sternum strap for balance. For a 40-liter travel bag, that’s rare—and it makes a real difference if you’re walking long distances.
Packing is suitcase-style, with a clamshell opening that lies flat. This makes it easy to organize with packing cubes, and you don’t need to fight with a top-loader design. There’s a padded laptop compartment, a front pocket for small items, and compression straps to cinch everything down. Downsides? Organization isn’t as detailed as Tortuga or Cotopaxi, and external water bottle options are limited.
Some travelers also find it a little boxy when fully packed. Still, it remains one of the best-balanced travel backpacks you can buy: simple, durable, and genuinely comfortable to carry.
Pros:
- Comfortable harness with hip belt.
- Clamshell opening like a suitcase.
- Carry-on compliant.
Cons:
- Not many internal organizers.
- Limited water bottle storage.
- It can feel boxy when full.
Best for: Travelers who want maximum comfort in a carry-on-sized backpack.
Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L – Best for Organization
Specs: 40L capacity, 4.5 lbs, clamshell design, padded laptop + tablet sleeves, lockable zippers.
The Tortuga Pro 40 is designed with one thing in mind: making travel feel organized and efficient. If you’re the type who packs with cubes, cables, toiletries, and documents all in their own place, this backpack is like having a portable closet.
It opens flat with a clamshell design, making it easy to pack like a suitcase. Inside, compartments for clothes, a padded laptop sleeve, and extra dividers help keep everything tidy.
Size-wise, it’s built to match the maximum carry-on allowance for most airlines. That means you’ll get the largest possible bag without checking it in. The build quality is excellent: tough fabric, lockable YKK zippers, and well-padded straps.
It’s not the lightest bag in the group, and its squared-off shape can look bulkier than more streamlined packs like the Peak Design or Fjällräven. But the payoff is storage that feels deliberate, not cramped.
The downside is price—it’s in the premium range, just like Peak Design. At over 4 pounds, it’s heavier than Osprey or Cotopaxi. Still, if your priority is making sure everything has its place and avoiding the stress of rummaging, Tortuga nails it.
Pros:
- Excellent organization with a clamshell design.
- Carry-on maximum dimensions.
- Laptop and tablet sleeves.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Heavy for its size.
- Squared-off look.
Best for: Travelers who want the most organized carry-on backpack possible.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack – Best Sustainable Choice
Specs: 35L capacity, 3.5 lbs, TPU-coated 1000D polyester, clamshell access, anti-theft zippers.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35 is a stylish and sustainable travel pack that hits the sweet spot for a 3-day trip. It’s 35-liter size forces you to be selective, but that’s often a good thing—it keeps you from overpacking.
The clamshell opening reveals mesh dividers that help separate clothes, toiletries, and accessories. You don’t even need packing cubes, though they still fit nicely.
What makes the Allpa stand out is its build. It’s made with recycled, TPU-coated polyester that feels tough and weather-resistant. The zippers are lockable and designed to deter quick theft attempts.
A padded laptop sleeve and sturdy carry handles make it practical for both airport and city travel. The exterior design is colorful and unique—very Cotopaxi—which is a pro if you want personality and a con if you prefer something subtle.
On the downside, the Allpa lacks external water bottle pockets, which some travelers miss, and at 3.5 lbs, it’s not ultralight for its size. Still, this is one of the most balanced travel packs for eco-conscious travelers who want something durable, functional, and different.
Pros:
- Recycled, durable materials.
- Built-in mesh dividers for organization.
- Lockable, theft-resistant zippers.
Cons:
- No external bottle holder.
- A bit heavy for 35L.
- Bold style may not suit everyone.
Best for: Eco-conscious travelers who want durability and smart design.
Fjällräven Ulvö 30 Backpack – Best for Minimalists
Specs: 30L capacity, 2.2 lbs, Bergshell waterproof fabric, laptop sleeve, clean Scandinavian design.
If you’re a minimalist who packs light, the Fjällräven Ulvö 30 is the most stylishly simple option on this list. With 30 liters, it’s smaller than the other bags here, but that’s by design—it encourages you to pack lean and focus only on essentials. For a weekend city trip or a 3-day work getaway, 30L can be enough if you’re disciplined.
The Ulvö’s Bergshell fabric is waterproof and tough, making it well-suited for unpredictable weather. Inside, it has a laptop sleeve and a straightforward main compartment.
It doesn’t overwhelm you with dozens of pockets, which some travelers find refreshing. Its Scandinavian style also makes it double as a commuter bag—you won’t look like a tourist when carrying it in the city.
Of course, the smaller size means limited packing capacity, and there aren’t as many organizational features as in the Tortuga or Cotopaxi. Comfort is fine for short hauls, but the straps aren’t as padded as Osprey’s. Still, if you value lightness, waterproofing, and sleek design, this is a strong choice.
Pros:
- Lightweight and slim.
- Waterproof Bergshell fabric.
- Doubles as a commuter backpack.
Cons:
- Small for some travelers.
- Limited organization.
- Less padded than Osprey.
Best for: Minimalist travelers who want a sleek, weatherproof bag for short trips.
MATEIN Carry-On Backpack – Best Budget Pick
Specs: 40L capacity, 2.8 lbs, polyester fabric, USB charging port, 15+ pockets, laptop sleeve.
The MATEIN Carry-On Backpack is one of Amazon’s top sellers, and it’s easy to see why: it balances affordability with surprising practicality. At 40 liters, it offers plenty of room for clothes, shoes, and a laptop, making it viable for a 3-day trip or even a week if you pack lean.
What makes this bag stand out at its price point are the details. The USB charging port is convenient if you keep a power bank inside, letting you charge your phone without fishing around.
It has over 15 pockets, so there’s a place for everything—even if the layout feels busier than premium bags. Build quality is decent, though polyester fabric and zippers won’t outlast Osprey or Peak Design. Comfort is okay for short walks, but for long hauls, the straps aren’t as supportive as higher-end packs.
Still, for the price, it’s tough to beat. It’s versatile enough for students, commuters, or casual travelers, and as a first travel backpack, it gives you all the basics without a big investment.
Pros:
- Very affordable.
- Tons of organizer pockets.
- USB charging port.
Cons:
- Less durable materials.
- Comfort is not great for long walks.
- Zippers could be sturdier.
Best for: Budget travelers or students who want a practical 3-day carry-on.
LOVEVOOK Travel Backpack 40L – Best Amazon Value
Specs: 40L capacity, 2.9 lbs, water-resistant polyester, expandable, shoe/toiletry compartments.
The LOVEVOOK 40L backpack is designed with Amazon shoppers in mind: lots of features at a fair price. At 40 liters, it’s carry-on sized and has a straightforward clamshell layout, making it easy to pack like a small suitcase.
What sets it apart are the extras: a dedicated shoe compartment, a toiletry bag, and multiple pockets for organizing travel essentials.
It’s not a premium bag, but it’s practical. The polyester fabric is water-resistant, and the design feels tailored for weekend and short trips. The laptop sleeve is handy for combining work and leisure travel, and the expandable feature gives you a little flexibility if you shop while abroad.
The bulkier look may not appeal to everyone, and long-term durability isn’t on par with brands like Osprey or Tortuga. Still, for casual travelers, it’s a convenient and budget-friendly way to stay organized.
Pros:
- Affordable with bonus features.
- Shoe compartment and toiletry bag included.
- Carry-on friendly.
Cons:
- Bulky design.
- Not as durable long-term.
- Straps are less padded.
Best for: Travelers who want Amazon’s best mix of price and features in a carry-on pack.
Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose Backpacks For A 3-Day Trip
Planning a 3-day trip seems simple—until you start packing. Suddenly, the bag that worked for your gym clothes feels way too small, and your hiking pack feels like overkill. The right backpack makes all the difference: one that fits everything you need without weighing you down or slowing you down at the airport.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose a backpack for a 3-day trip. You’ll see who really needs one, common concerns travelers have, the features that matter most, and how to make the final call without second-guessing yourself.
Think of it as advice from that friend who loves gear research (the “nerd”) but also actually listens to your real-life needs (the “listener”).
Who Needs This
A 3-day backpack isn’t just for hardcore travelers—it’s for anyone who wants to travel light and avoid the hassles of checked luggage. You might need one if:
- You’re flying budget airlines and want to avoid baggage fees.
- You’re taking a weekend city break and don’t want to drag a rolling suitcase over cobblestones.
- You’re mixing business with leisure and need space for both clothes and a laptop.
- You’re a minimalist packer who prefers one bag that does it all.
Even if you normally use a carry-on suitcase, a backpack can make sense for trips where mobility and flexibility matter more than wheels. As Consumer Reports points out in their luggage buying guide, backpacks are often easier to maneuver in crowded spaces and can be less prone to damage than wheeled bags.
Common Concerns
When people shop for a backpack for short trips, a few worries come up again and again:
- “Will it fit everything I need?”
The sweet spot for a 3-day trip is 30–45 liters. Smaller than that, and you’re likely to be cramming; bigger, and you’ll be tempted to overpack. - “Is it airline-friendly?”
Most airlines allow carry-ons of around 45L. A backpack that’s too big risks being gate-checked. The TSA and individual airline websites provide clear carry-on size rules worth checking before you fly. If you often travel with a laptop, for frequent flyers who carry laptops, a TSA-approved backpack may save time at security. - “Will it hurt my back?”
Comfort matters, especially if you’ll be walking through airports or train stations. Look for padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a sternum strap—features borrowed from hiking packs. - “What about security?”
Travelers worry about theft, especially in busy cities. That’s why anti-theft zippers, hidden pockets, or lockable compartments are worth paying attention to. Travel + Leisure often highlights these features in their annual travel gear reviews. Check out our roundup of the best anti-theft backpacks if safety is your top concern. - “Do I have to spend a fortune?”
Not at all. Amazon bestsellers like Matein or Lovevook offer solid functionality at budget prices, while premium brands like Peak Design or Tortuga bring higher-quality materials and design for travelers who want something long-lasting.
Features That Matter Most
Here’s what to focus on when comparing options:
- Capacity (30–45L): This range is ideal for 3-day trips. 30L if you’re a minimalist, 40–45L if you like extra outfits.
- Carry-On Compliance: Check the dimensions against your airline’s carry-on limits. Many packs are designed specifically to fit under 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
- Organization: Look for clamshell openings (packs that open flat like a suitcase), multiple compartments, and quick-access pockets. Tortuga and Cotopaxi are known for thoughtful layouts.
- Comfort: Padded straps, ventilated back panels, and hip belts all help. Osprey excels here, borrowing from their hiking heritage.
- Durability: Materials like 210D nylon or TPU-coated polyester last longer and resist water. YKK zippers are a sign of quality. REI Co-op suggests checking zippers and seams, since they’re often the first points of failure.
- Weight: Under 3 lbs is ideal, but sturdier packs may run heavier (4–4.5 lbs). It’s a tradeoff between durability and portability.
- Extras: Features like a USB charging port (Matein), shoe compartments (Lovevook), or expandable designs (Peak Design) can be helpful but aren’t must-haves.
How to Choose
So how do you pick the right backpack for your 3-day trip? Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Decide on your packing style.
- If you’re a minimalist who can live off two outfits and travel-size toiletries, 30–35L is enough.
- If you like options or want to fit in a pair of running shoes, stick to 40–45L.
- If you’re a minimalist who can live off two outfits and travel-size toiletries, 30–35L is enough.
- Think about your travel type.
- City/Work trip → Slim, professional-looking packs like Peak Design or Tortuga.
- Adventure/Outdoors → More rugged designs like Osprey or Cotopaxi.
- Budget weekend getaway → Amazon-friendly options like Matein or Lovevook.
- City/Work trip → Slim, professional-looking packs like Peak Design or Tortuga.
- Check airline rules.
- Each airline has slightly different carry-on size limits. If you fly budget carriers, aim for 35–40L to be safe.
- Each airline has slightly different carry-on size limits. If you fly budget carriers, aim for 35–40L to be safe.
- Test for comfort.
- A good pack should feel comfortable with 15–20 pounds inside. If you’re in a store, load it up and walk around. If shopping online, read reviews that mention comfort and fit.
- A good pack should feel comfortable with 15–20 pounds inside. If you’re in a store, load it up and walk around. If shopping online, read reviews that mention comfort and fit.
- Match to your budget.
- Under $100 → Matein, Lovevook.
- $150–$200 → Osprey, Cotopaxi.
- $250+ → Peak Design, Tortuga.
- Under $100 → Matein, Lovevook.
The “right” bag is the one that matches your travel style, not just the most expensive option. A good 3-day travel backpack is more than just a bag—it’s peace of mind. You won’t be second-guessing whether you overpacked or stressing at the gate about bag size.
Instead, you’ll have everything you need in one carry-on that’s comfortable to wear and easy to organize.
Remember:
- 30–35L if you pack light.
- 40–45L if you want wiggle room.
- Comfort, durability, and airline fit are non-negotiables.
Whether you go budget with Matein, sustainable with Cotopaxi, or premium with Peak Design, the right backpack should make your 3-day trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Pack smart, travel light, and enjoy the freedom of moving through airports, trains, and streets without dragging a suitcase behind you.
See our guide on packing light like a pro, even for business trips.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right backpack for a 3-day trip isn’t about chasing the fanciest features—it’s about finding the bag that fits your travel style. Maybe you want the premium versatility of the Peak Design, the all-day comfort of Osprey, or the budget-friendly practicality of Matein.
Whatever your priorities—capacity, comfort, durability, or value—there’s an option here that solves the “too small vs. too bulky” problem once and for all.
Think of your backpack as a travel partner: it should carry the load without complaint, keep your things organized, and move with you through airports, buses, and city streets.
With one of these seven picks, you can focus less on your gear and more on enjoying the actual trip. Pack light, travel smart, and let the right backpack make your 3-day getaway smoother from start to finish.
Happy travels!
FAQs
How many liters should a backpack be for a 3-day trip?
For most travelers, 30–45 liters is the sweet spot. Thirty liters works if you pack light (a couple of outfits, toiletries, and a laptop). If you like options or want room for shoes and extras, 40–45 liters is safer. Anything bigger tends to feel oversized and might get flagged at airline check-in.
Is a 40L backpack considered carry-on size?
Yes, in most cases. Many airlines allow carry-ons up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, which fits a typical 40L backpack. That said, budget airlines sometimes have stricter limits. It’s always smart to double-check your airline’s rules on their website or on the TSA carry-on guide.
Can I use a hiking backpack for a 3-day city trip?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Hiking packs often have top-loading designs, which makes it harder to reach your stuff quickly. For city or work trips, a clamshell-opening travel backpack is much more convenient. Hiking packs shine outdoors, but travel packs shine in airports, hotels, and trains.
What’s the difference between a travel backpack and a regular backpack?
A regular backpack is fine for commuting or school, but usually lacks space and organization for multi-day trips. A travel backpack is built to open like a suitcase, with compartments for clothes, tech, and toiletries. They’re designed around carry-on rules and comfort for longer carries.
Do I need a hip belt on a 3-day backpack?
It depends on how much weight you carry. For light packers under 20 lbs, padded shoulder straps may be enough. But if you’re hauling electronics, shoes, or bulkier gear, a hip belt makes a big difference by shifting weight off your shoulders. That’s why packs from Osprey and Tortuga include them.
Should I bring packing cubes for a 3-day trip?
Yes—packing cubes are one of the easiest ways to stay organized, even in smaller packs. They let you separate clothes by type, compress items, and avoid the dreaded “exploding backpack” when you open it. Some brands, like Cotopaxi, even build divider panels into the bag so you don’t need cubes.
Are budget Amazon backpacks worth it?
If you only travel occasionally, budget-friendly options like Matein or Lovevook can be a great start. They won’t last forever like premium packs, but they’ll handle weekend trips or casual use just fine. If you travel frequently, investing in a premium bag (Peak Design, Tortuga, Osprey) pays off long-term.
