Travel Backpacks for Women

Travel Backpacks for Women

Travel Backpacks for Women

Carry-on-sized travel bags that are comfortable to carry, organized, and easy to pack.

As a woman, this is the most comfortable travel backpack I have tried, and I have tried many... The hip belt takes so much of the weight off my back and shoulders.

—Tai Verified Buyer

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FAQs

What makes a travel backpack good for women?

The best travel backpacks for women prioritize proper torso fit and weight distribution. Women typically have shorter torsos than men, so look for backpacks with adjustable harness systems or smaller bags designed for shorter torsos, plus weight-bearing hip belts that transfer load to your stronger leg muscles.

What size travel backpack should women choose?

Women should choose based on their frame while maximizing carry on space. The Travel Backpack Pro offers an adjustable fit and the maximum 40L capacity. The Travel Backpack Lite provides the same capacity but lighter weight and without an adjustable suspension system. The Expandable Backpack works best for smaller frames and shorter trips.

Do women need different travel backpacks than men?

Women benefit from backpacks designed for shorter torsos and different body proportions. The key features are height-adjustable shoulder straps that accommodate different torso lengths, a padded hip belt to transfer weight, and a sternum strap. The Travel Backpack Pro has a height-adjustable harness, while the Travel Backpack Lite and Expandable Backpack fit a range of torso lengths.

How should a women's travel backpack fit?

A properly fitted women's travel backpack should have the hip belt resting on your hip bones, shoulder straps sitting comfortably without digging in, and 80% of the weight transferred to your hips. The backpack should sit close to your back without sagging. Learn how to measure and fit your backpack with our detailed guide.

How much weight can women comfortably carry in a travel backpack?

The amount varies greatly by individual fitness and experience. Start with a smaller bag that forces you to carry a lighter load. Then, you can gradually increase the size (and weight) as you find your comfort level. Choose a backpack with a padded hip belt to transfer your bag's weight from your shoulders to your hips and legs. Finally, remember to pack strategically to stay within airline carry on weight limits of 15-22 pounds.

Women should prioritize size, comfort, and ease of packing when choosing a travel backpack.

  • Size: First, your travel backpack must be carry-on-sized so that you never have to check a bag. A 40L pack will max out your overhead bin space. If you're a light packer or worried about carrying a large bag, choose a smaller bag.
  • Comfort: Next, your bag must be comfortable. Even a carry on can get heavy when you max out the weight allowance and pack your computer and a pair of shoes. So choose a bag with a weight-bearing hip belt. The belt will take up to 80% of the weight off your shoulders so you can carry it with your strong leg muscles, not your shoulders.
  • Ease of Packing: Finally, you want a bag that's easy to pack. This is why top-loading hiking packs don't work well for travel. You want a front-loading bag that opens like a suitcase so you can see all your stuff at once, keep it organized, and grab just what you need.

Build out your full travel kit with a bundle that includes your carry on travel bag plus all the accessories you'll need for your trip. Save up to $100 on Tortuga backpack bundles here.