Travel backpacks have become a popular alternative to traditional luggage, offering a lighter and more streamlined option for travellers. Unlike suitcases, which can suffer from broken wheels or faulty latches, backpacks provide greater flexibility and ease of movement. Features such as side and rear openings allow for easy access to items, while top stash pockets keep essentials like keys and loose change within reach.
When choosing a travel backpack, design details matter. Wide shoulder straps help distribute weight comfortably, and for larger backpacks over 25 litres, adjustable chest and waist straps are essential. I tested several backpacks over thousands of miles, including city breaks, business trips, and hiking holidays, to find the best options for every type of traveller.
The Antler Discovery Backpack stood out as a top performer. Its wide, contoured straps and dual sternum straps effectively spread the load, reducing pressure during long hikes. Despite its lightweight design, it includes mesh pockets in the shoulder straps, carrying fixtures for hiking poles, and an internal water-bladder pocket. Side compression straps allow for reduced bulk, making it ideal for strict cabin baggage policies, while reflective material enhances visibility.
For rainy conditions, the backpack's waterproof Cordura ripstop fabric keeps contents dry, and reflective tabs maintain visibility. It also features a dedicated light attachment for bike lights. Its compact design allows it to be squashed into its own pouch, yet it remains comfortable thanks to ergonomically contoured shoulder straps and a hip belt. Priced competitively, it offers excellent value for money.
Durability is another strong point, with 1,050-denier recycled nylon shells and extra-thick 1,680-denier recycled nylon bottom panels. Reinforcement in areas like the front pocket zip adds longevity. Despite its streamlined shape, it includes numerous pockets: two side pockets, a padded sunglasses pocket, an internal laptop sleeve, and multiple internal pockets for organising smaller items. Easily adjustable straps and an ultra-breathable back panel enhance comfort.
