Whether you’re hopping on a flight, working from a café, or catching an overnight bus to your next adventure, the right backpack can make or break your nomadic lifestyle. In 2025, travelers are demanding more than just storage – they want bags that pull double duty. Think backpacks that pack like a suitcase, carry like a duffel, and organize like a mobile office. From sleek city-ready designs to rugged packs built for long-haul treks, these dual-use backpacks are the ultimate sidekicks for anyone living life on the move. Light, versatile, and built to go anywhere you do – here are the best options this year for digital nomads, weekend explorers, and full-time wanderers alike.
1. Peak Design Travel Backpack (30L / 45L)
The Peak Design Travel Backpack is a marvel of modern travel gear, seamlessly merging style with utility. Its expandable design offers 30L to 45L capacity, making it perfect for both quick getaways and extended journeys. With a suitcase-style clamshell opening, packing becomes a breeze, letting you organize with ease.
Stowable straps and numerous grab handles add to its travel-friendly nature, allowing for quick transformations between backpack and duffel modes. However, its slightly heavier build and fixed torso length may be a consideration for some.
This backpack is not just a carrier of belongings but an enabler of experiences, promising reliability and elegance wherever your adventures take you.
2. Osprey Farpoint / Fairview 40L
In the world of travel, the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40L stands out for its exceptional comfort and adaptability. Perfect for heavy loads, its suspension system ensures a comfortable carry, whether you’re navigating city streets or rugged trails.
The design includes a harness and hip belt that tuck away, transforming it into a sleek duffel bag for those stylish arrivals. Compression straps help slim its profile, making it ideal for carry-on compliance.
While interior organization may be minimal, this backpack prioritizes durability and functionality, offering a trusted companion for nomads who value both style and substance.
3. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack brings a splash of color and practicality to any journey. With its suitcase-style, flat opening, it redefines packing, offering easy access and organization for all your travel essentials.
Its design boasts multiple handles and stow-away straps, making it versatile for any adventure. Despite its minimalist appeal, it is incredibly durable, ensuring it withstands the rigors of travel.
However, its flexibility can sometimes be a drawback when carrying heavier loads. Yet, for those seeking a blend of style and function, the Allpa 35L is a vibrant choice that doesn’t compromise on performance.
4. Matador GlobeRider 45L
For those who seek adventure beyond the beaten path, the Matador GlobeRider 45L offers unmatched durability and organization. Crafted for the rugged traveler, it boasts weather-resistant materials, ensuring your belongings stay dry, no matter the conditions.
Its spacious interior is well-organized, catering to meticulous packers who demand both space and accessibility. The comfort of carrying this backpack, even when fully packed, is a noteworthy feature.
While bulkier and more expensive than some competitors, its robust construction and protective design make it a worthwhile investment for the intrepid explorer.
5. Duffel–Backpack Hybrids (e.g. The North Face Base Camp Duffel)
In the ever-evolving world of travel gear, Duffel-Backpack Hybrids like The North Face Base Camp Duffel offer a unique blend of versatility and durability. These hybrids are perfect for those who traverse a mix of airports, buses, and trekking trails.
Converting seamlessly between a duffel and a backpack, they cater to various travel needs. The rugged construction ensures reliability in diverse environments, making them ideal for unpredictable adventures.
Though they can feel awkward when overstuffed, the utility and toughness of these hybrids are unmatched, providing a steadfast companion for the adventurous traveler.
6. Nomatic Travel Pack / Nomatic 40L Travel Bag
The Nomatic Travel Pack stands out as a beacon of versatility and modern design, often hailed as one of 2025’s best overall travel packs. With its sleek appearance and well-thought-out organization, it’s a favorite among digital nomads and frequent flyers.
This backpack transitions smoothly between compact and expanded modes, adapting to your travel requirements. The combination of stylish aesthetics and practical functionality makes it a must-have for those on the move.
Designed with urban explorers in mind, it balances form and function, ensuring you’re prepared for both boardroom meetings and weekend getaways.
7. Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L
Hailed as the most comfortable option in 2025, the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L blends suitcase-style packing with backpack mobility. Its wide opening allows for effortless packing, appealing to travelers who value convenience and ease.
The design emphasizes comfort, ensuring it sits well on your shoulders during long treks through airports or city streets. The attention to detail in its construction speaks volumes about its commitment to enhancing travelers’ experiences.
Ideal for those who want the best of both worlds, this backpack is a testament to functional design meeting everyday practicality.
8. Aer Travel Pack 3
As 2025’s best value travel backpack, the Aer Travel Pack 3 impresses with its balanced design and durable materials. It’s crafted for those who seek top-notch organization without compromising on style.
The pack offers decent carry comfort, making it suitable for both short commutes and extended travels. Its durability ensures it withstands the various demands of a nomadic lifestyle.
With thoughtful design features, it proves to be a reliable choice for travelers looking to maximize value and functionality in their everyday adventures.
9. Thule / Aion Travel Pack
Making waves in 2025, the Thule/Aion Travel Pack perfectly marries travel efficiency with commuter-friendly aesthetics. Its design is tailored for those who transition seamlessly between travel and urban life.
The clean lines and thoughtful features cater to professionals seeking a blend of functionality and style. Its travel-friendly layout makes packing a straightforward task, allowing for organized adventures.
This backpack isn’t just about looks; it’s about providing a practical solution for those who live dynamically, meeting the demands of both work and play.
10. Osprey Sojourn / Porter / Aura / Aether series
Renowned for their adaptability, the Osprey Sojourn/Porter/Aura/Aether series offers a comprehensive solution for those with varied travel needs. Combining the suspension systems of hiking packs with travel-centric features, they ensure comfort and utility.
These backpacks are celebrated for their wide openings and stowable straps, allowing for easy packing and versatility in any setting. They’re perfect for those who require gear that transitions effortlessly between different travel modes.
With a reputation for reliability and a design that caters to both avid travelers and casual adventurers, this series is a hallmark of practical innovation.
