The Best Backpacks For Travel
Ever wondered how the right backpack can transform your travel experience? From the vibrant heartbeats of Southeast Asia, to the bustling cities of the United States and Europe, I’ve journeyed with two remarkable backpacks. Let’s embark on this tale of two carriers, and discover the best backpacks for travel in 2023! 🌍✨
Tropicfeel Hive Backpack
Background
The Hive Backpack starts at €229, which I’ll admit is not cheap. However let’s remember we’re paying for quality and versatility here.
You have the option of black, green, or cream. I purchased the cream. Checkout my backpack tour HERE.
One of my favorite features about this backpack is the bottom compartment, which is perfect for storing shoes or wet swimsuits. Simply tuck it back into its zipper compartment when not in use.
You are given the option to add up to 5 add-ons for an additional price. I personally felt that the wardrobe and toiletry bag would be plenty for me. I already have my favorite compression packing cubes from Amazon, which coincidentally match the Hive Backpack perfectly.
My Experience
I took the Hive Backpack on an 18-day adventure to Southeast Asia, and boy, was it a game-changer! From the mountainous regions of the Philippines known as the Kalinga Province, through the surfing capital of Siargao, to the lively streets of Singapore, this backpack was my trusty companion.
See how I packed my Tropicfeel Hive Backpack for 18 days HERE.
Features
- Versatility: The Hive is not just a backpack; it’s a whole travel system. With its modular design, I could easily customize it to fit my needs. Whether I was exploring city streets or hiking up mountains, the Hive had my back (pun intended! 😉).
- Comfort: The padded shoulder straps and back panel made it super comfortable to carry, even on those long travel days.
- Durability: Made with high-quality materials, the Hive stood up to the challenges of my trip. Rain, sand, or rough handling, it took it all in stride.
- Storage: With a 20L capacity, it had ample space for all my essentials. The multiple compartments made organization a breeze.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- High quality
- Waist and chest strap for added support and comfortability
- Resistant to the elements
- Functional and practical
- Ideal for extended holidays
Cons:
- Additional add-ons such as the wardrobe are quite heavy, even before packing anything inside it.
Amazon Backpack
Background
The Amazon backpack comes at a much more budget-friendly price point, beginning at around $37.
That being said, it doesn’t come with the optional add-on features that the Hive backpack offers. However you still have multiple compartments, including a waterproof pocket, and a space for shoes.
You also have 28 different size and color options, so depending on your needs or the duration of your trip, this could be beneficial.
My Experience
For my 10-day trip to the U.S., I chose the backpack as my personal item. It was compact enough to fit under the airplane seat, yet spacious enough to hold all my in-flight essentials, toiletries, and additional clothing which didn’t fit into my carry-on luggage. This has also become my go to backpack for weekend getaways, and I’ve had no problem fitting all my necessities.
See how I packed my Amazon backpack for 10 days in the U.S. HERE.
Features
- Design: This backpack boasts a sleek and modern design. It’s not just functional but also super stylish.
- Material: Made with water-resistant material.
- Compartments: The multiple compartments made it easy to organize all my things.
- Comfort: The padded straps ensured that even when it was fully packed, it was comfortable to carry.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Sleek
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Resistant to the elements
- Functional and practical
- Ideal for short trips
Cons:
- No chest or waist strap for additional support
- Can begin to make back and shoulders ache sooner due to no additional support
Final Thoughts
Both backpacks served me well on my travels. The Tropicfeel Hive was perfect for my longer trip to Southeast Asia, with its versatility and durability. On the other hand, the Amazon backpack was the ideal choice for my shorter getaways, with its compact size and stylish design.
So the next time you’re planning a trip, consider what you need from your backpack. Whether it’s versatility, style, or comfort, there’s a backpack out there for you. Safe travels and happy backpacking! 🎒
Still looking for more? Check out my blog post on the 10 Must Have Carry-on Essentials of 2023!
