By Lauren HollandUpdated November 2026
A hiking backpack for travel needs to do two jobs well: carry a full load up a trail and fit into an overhead bin or a train seat the next morning. The picks below were chosen by reviewing product listings, brand reputation, and patterns in owner feedback. The criteria were capacity range, packability, weight on the back, water resistance, and how well each pack suits both trail days and airport days.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallMIYCOO Ultralight Packable Backpack, 35L Water-Resistant Hiking DaypackView on Amazon - 2
Best for carry-on travelcoowoz Travel Backpack For Women Men, Carry On Backpack, Hiking Backpack WaterproofView on Amazon - 3
Best for packing smallEddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Backpack – Port, 20LView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| MIYCOO Ultralight Packable Backpack | Day hikes that turn into city days | 35L water-resistant shell |
| coowoz Travel Backpack For Women Men | Carry-on travel with trail use | Carry-on sized waterproof body |
| Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Backpack – Port | Stashing a pack in a suitcase | Folds into its own pocket |
MIYCOO Ultralight Packable Backpack, 35L Water-Resistant Hiking Daypack
MIYCOO Ultralight Packable Backpack, 35L Water-Resistant Hiking Daypack | Travel Camping Foldable Daypack, Hiking Back Pack for Men Women, Black
Best for: Day hikes that turn into city days
This pack suits someone who wants one bag for a morning trail loop and an afternoon of sightseeing. Its 35-liter volume is large enough for a light jacket, water, snacks, and a camera.
Pros
- Packs down small when not in use
- Water-resistant fabric handles light rain
Cons
- Thin straps can feel tight with heavier loads
coowoz Travel Backpack For Women Men, Carry On Backpack, Hiking Backpack Waterproof
coowoz Travel Backpack For Women Men,Carry On Backpack,Hiking Backpack Waterproof Outdoor Sports Rucksack Casual Daypack Travel Essentials(Olive Green)
Best for: Carry-on travel with trail use
This is a fit for travelers who want a pack that meets carry-on dimensions and can still handle a hike at the destination. Owners often report that the waterproof construction makes it a practical choice for unpredictable weather.
Pros
- Sized to work as a carry-on bag
- Waterproof body suits rainy trips
Cons
- Heavier than minimalist packable designs
Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Backpack – Port, 20L
Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Backpack – Port, 20L | Lightweight Durable Ripstop Polyester, Folds Down for Storage, Packable Daypack for Travel and Hiking
Best for: Stashing a pack in a suitcase
This pack is aimed at travelers who want a backup daypack that disappears inside a larger bag. Its 20-liter capacity is best for short hikes, market trips, and carrying a day’s essentials.
Pros
- Folds down for storage
- Durable ripstop polyester resists snags
Cons
- Not large enough for overnight gear
Buying Guide
Capacity for Trips of Different Lengths
For a day hike plus sightseeing, 20 to 35 liters is usually enough. Multi-day trips with a hiking itinerary often need 40 liters or more, depending on how much you carry in your own clothing.
Packability and Carry-On Fit
Check the airline’s carry-on dimensions before you buy. A pack that compresses into its own pocket is useful when you need a second bag on the return leg.
Water Resistance
Water-resistant coatings shed light rain, while fully waterproof bodies protect electronics in heavier weather. For more on this, see Waterproof Backpack for Hiking: How to Choose One That Keeps Gear Dry.
Fit and Weight on the Back
Load should sit close to your back and rest on your hips. If you carry more than about 15 to 20 percent of your body weight, look for padded hip support. What Makes a Good Hiking Backpack: Fit, Capacity, and Load Support covers this in more detail.
Good picks for this: Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Backpack – Port and MIYCOO Ultralight Packable Backpack
FAQ
Can one backpack work for both hiking and travel?
Yes, as long as you match capacity to the trip. A 30 to 35 liter pack handles most day hikes and city travel days.
Do I need a waterproof pack for travel?
Not always, but water-resistant fabric is helpful for rain and for protecting electronics. Consider Water Resistant Hiking Backpack: How to Choose One That Keeps Gear Dry if weather is a concern.
How much should a travel and hiking backpack weigh?
Many travelers aim for a total pack weight that stays manageable for a full day of walking. See Weight of Backpack for Hiking: How Much Pack Weight Is Right for You for guidance.
Conclusion
The MIYCOO pack suits day hikes that double as city outings, while the coowoz works best when you need a carry-on that can also handle trail use. The Eddie Bauer Stowaway is the right backup if you want a daypack that folds away inside a suitcase.
Sources
- Guidance on safe lifting and carrying loads to reduce strain (cdc.gov)
- Ergonomic recommendations for carrying weight safely (osha.gov)
- Trail safety and pack preparation for outdoor travel (nps.gov)
About Lauren Holland
Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our backpacks & packing systems guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
