The Best Wheeled Backpacks for Travel: Reviews & Buying Guide 

Ah, the rolling suitcase, best friend to weary travelers everywhere! Who among us hasn't experienced the convenience and ease of loading up the car with all that gear, then strolling straight through the terminal without so much as a second thought to the weight of our load But what if you could prove yourself a true traveler by forgetting that trusty old rolling suitcase and opting instead for a convenient, modern take on the suitcase - the wheeled backpack!

A wheeled backpack is a versatile luggage option for travelers, students, and outdoor enthusiasts Its most important features include durable wheels for easy mobility, ample storage space, comfortable straps for carrying as a backpack, and a sturdy handle for pulling it like a suitcase 

These handy bags combine the practicality of traditional backpacks with the convenience of wheels, offering travelers of all types the same ease of mobility as with a rolling suitcase but with the added bonus of being able to be carried around when needed But with so many different models and designs on the market, how do you know which to choose Never fear: in this post, we'll review some of the best wheeled backpacks for travel and provide you with a buying guide to help you find the perfect product for your next adventure So, strap on your backpacks, and let's get rolling!

What Makes A Wheeled Backpack Perfect For Travel

When it comes to traveling, being able to carry all of your luggage with ease and comfort is key Wheeled backpacks offer an innovative solution for making travel much simpler With the ability to be pulled on four wheels or carried like any other backpack, wheeled backpacks make a great choice for frequent travelers who want the convenience of rolling their items without compromising on the spaciousness and security that comes with a regular backpack Taking into consideration the weight of the bag, size of storage compartment, and other features such as multiple pockets are also important factors when evaluating the best wheeled backpack for travel

Another point to consider when discussing why a wheeled backpack can be perfect for travel is that it often offers greater portability compared to standard suitcases Since they can easily be folded up and stowed away, they’re great for those who find themselves constantly on the go Not only do they make packing easier for shorter trips but also for longer trips where having extra room to fit essential items is important Additionally, it’s easier to maneuver around tight corridors in airports or hotel lobbies with a smaller bag than with bulky suitcases

The usage of wheeled backpacks as opposed to suitcases does come with some tradeoffs though For instance, durability may be an issue as it can be relatively easy for the backpack wheels to break and render your bag useless quickly This could pose a problem if you’re buying a cheap backpack just based on price alone Further, while they can still accommodate large loads due to their expandable capacity and reasonable storage space, they may not have the same strength or waterproof ability of a hard-shelled suitcase So depending on your needs, both could serve as viable options when choosing your next travel bag

As you search for a perfect wheeled backpack for travel, it pays to be mindful of what features best suits your individual needs and what compromises you are willing to make Fortunately, this next section will provide an in-depth review of seven different wheeled backpack options available today so that you can make an informed decision about which one will work best for you - no matter where your travels might take you!

7 of the Best Wheeled Backpacks For Travel

With each passing year, durability and comfort become more important on the list of bag features Travelers should look for a backpack that can withstand any adventures they choose to embark on By understanding what makes a wheeled backpack perfect for travel and understanding 7 of the best wheeled backpacks, you’ll be prepared to make your decision when it comes to picking out the perfect piece of luggage for your journey

Let’s start by taking a look at seven of the best wheeled backpacks for travelers:

1 The Osprey Meridian Wheeled Backpack

2 The Victorinox Werks Professional 50 Wheeled Bag

3 The Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Expandable Spinner Upright

4 The High Sierra Freewheel Wheeled Backpack

5 The Eagle Creek EC Lync System 22-inch Rolling Backpack

6 The North Face Rolling Thunder Rolling Duffel Bag

7 The Samsonite Omni PC Spinner 28-Inch Luggage

Each of these bags has distinct qualities that will ensure an enjoyable travel experience - from durability, to organization, comfort, and convenience Each design can accommodate different needs; those who plan to spend lots of time outdoors or make many transitions between locations may prefer something light and sturdy like the Osprey Meridian Wheeled Backpack or High Sierra Freewheel Wheeled Backpack with lots of storage space Those looking for a bag to bring from home to work might appreciate something like the Victorinox Werks Professional 50 Wheeled Bag or Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Expandable Spinner Upright as they are lightweight, organized and sleekly designed so you won't feel overburdened by extra material when commuting around town For those hoping to stay minimal but bring some extra items consider the Eagle Creek EC Lync System 22-Inch Rolling Backpack providing just enough space without too much bulkiness If you're planning a trip but still want to bring a little extra, check out The North Face Rolling Thunder Rolling Duffel Bag – it's roomy enough to fit your belongings while remaining lightweight and durable enough for any possible adventure ahead! Finally, travelers who prioritize style may appreciate the Samsonite Omni PC Spinner 28-Inch Luggage as it combines trendy exterior design with lasting utility making sure you never feel out of place no matter where your travels take you!

These seven bags have set high standards for wheeled backpacks in 2018, featuring premium material with great quality construction To find out which bag is most suitable for your next adventure, explore additional reviews and details about one notable wheelie: The Osprey Transporter 70L, and learn how it stacks up against all other popular wheelies this year!

The Osprey Transporter 70L

The Osprey Transporter 70L is an excellent option for travelers looking for a large capacity bag with wheels Osprey has become a reputable name in the outdoor gear world and the same quality shows in this travel backpack This pack features two heavy duty wheels, an extendable handle that can be stowed away when not needed, and its own dedicated laptop compartment so you can keep your electronic devices safe and secure While this is great for travelers who want to carry around extra items that won’t fit in a smaller bag, it could be too cumbersome for those who prefer agility when getting around airports or train stations Additionally, its 70L of volume might over exceed some airline’s weight restrictions

Though it may not be the ideal choice if you’re a minimalist traveler or don’t need as much storage, its burly construction, quality materials, and ample space make it one of the best options on the market for those looking to transport heavier loads while still having a reliable set of wheels to rely on

For those considering less bulky alternatives, the Samsonite Luggage Mobile PC 70L Trolley Backpack offers a more compact option with plenty of pockets and compartments for organization on-the-go It's retractable telescopic handle and extra-thick wheels make climbing curbs or stairs effortless and stress free We'll explore it's features further in the next section

The Samsonite Luggage Mobile PC 70L Trolley Backpack

When you think of the best wheeled backpacks, the Samsonite Luggage Mobile PC 70L Trolley Backpack can certainly be included on that list This back is designed with two separate compartments, which allows you to make use of the space inside more effectively It also has a large amount of room in its top and lower compartments which can accommodate a full-sized carry-on as well as numerous items for your trip The main body of the bag’s interior is fully lined compartmentalized and plenty of pockets mean you won't have any trouble organizing your belongings It also has smooth-rolling inline skate wheels to help lug your load around with ease

But if you're looking for something a bit more streamlined and lightweight than the Osprey Transporter 70L, then this might not be the right pick for you While it's incredibly spacious, it's not light by any means, weighing almost 10lbs when empty Plus, true adventure seekers may want something more rugged than this when traveling off beaten paths

That being said, its durable construction and water-resistant polyester material make it perfect for those who are looking for a travel backpack that can offer some protection from wear and tear over time Plus, its telescopic handle makes maneuvering through tight spots or up stairs a breeze - a useful feature to have when you've got your hands full!

In terms of security, it also features lockable zippers, so you can sleep soundly knowing that your belongings are safe and sound So whether you're taking long trips or just running errands around town - this bag is great choice for the traveler who wants both style and substance in one package

While the benefits of this robust wheeled backpack should not be dismissed, those who don’t mind sacrificing storage space in favor of portability may want to consider opting for an even lighter model such as the JanSport Truckster DLX Wheeled Backpack This pack combines modern good looks and heavy-duty construction in a lightweight design that still managing to offer plenty of organizational options inside and out Let's take a closer look at what it has to offer next

The JanSport Truckster DLX Wheeled Backpack

When it comes to wheeled backpacks meant for travel, the JanSport Truckster DLX Wheeled Backpack is a worthy contender It offers both convenience and durability thanks to its two-in-one design with removable straps for carrying and an extendable handle for rolling around With plenty of pockets and compartments, you won’t be short on space either Despite being fairly lightweight for a wheeled backpack, the JanSport Truckster DLX offers an impressive maximum weight capacity of 40 LBS The frame is also constructed from impact-resistant material to help keep your items safe

The one downside to the JanSport Truckster DLX is that it doesn’t offer as much weather protection as some of its competitors such as the Samsonite Luggage Mobile PC 70L Trolley Backpack While this may be a deal breaker for some, others might find the price point, versatility, and solid construction more than enough reason to go with the JanSport Truckster DLX

For travelers looking for an affordable wheeled backpack with plenty of pockets and excellent mobility, the JanSport Truckster DLX is definitely worth considering However, in terms of personal preference, photographers or those who know they will be dealing with wet conditions may want to consider other options that offer better weather protection before making their decision For those looking for a reliable wheeled backpack offering even more storage options and rugged construction, the Burton Vices XS Wheeled Backpack might be worth a look

The Burton Vices XS Wheeled Backpack

When researching wheeled backpacks, the Burton Vices XS Wheeled Backpack is another great option to consider Although its capacity is on the smaller side at only 35 liters, its more lightweight design makes it perfect for short trips or as a carryon for longer journeys It also has plenty of pockets for organization, adjustable shoulder straps, and an anomaly skate-style wheel system that gives it a smooth ride Additionally, the thermoformed back panel keeps carry comfort in spite of its smaller size

Overall, the Burton Vices XS Wheeled Backpack is excellent for quick trips with minimal items while still having all the bells and whistles of a full-size wheeled backpack such as adjustable shoulder straps and smooth wheel system However, due to its smaller size and lack of flexibility, this wheeled backpack may not be suitable for extended travel or carrying large amounts of heavy items

For anyone looking for a reliable wheeled backpack that can stand up to wear and tear without taking up too much space, the Burton Vices XS Wheeled Backpack is worth considering But if space and convenience are more important than looks then the next wheeled backpack in our review guide – the AmazonBasics Rolling Backpack – may be an even better option

The AmazonBasics Rolling Backpack

The AmazonBasics Rolling Backpack is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable bag specifically designed for travel This bag is made from durable polyester fabric that can withstand the rigors of rolling around airports, buses, and stretches of pavement Its large main compartment fits plenty of items with a special slot for your laptop, and the front zipper pocket has multiple organizer compartments to keep your items neat and easy to find It also comes equipped with a telescoping handle and two inline wheels, making it easy to take on long trips without worrying about straining your back or shoulders

When comparing the AmazonBasics Rolling Backpack to the Burton Vices XS Wheeled Backpack, it's important to consider both its price point and durability It is definitely less expensive than its Burton counterpart, but there are still tradeoffs when it comes to its longevity The fabrics are not quite as high quality as the ones used by Burton, but they will still hold up well in most situations that travelers usually encounter

Furthermore, this backpack is able to fit more items because of the roomy main compartment and pockets That being said, its weight capacity is a bit on the lower end compared to some other brands' offerings So if you're someone who's always trying to pack too much into one suitcase, then this might not be the best option for you

Overall, the AmazonBasics Rolling Backpack offers a great blend of price and features that make it ideal for everyday travelers looking for an economical way to get around without sacrificing comfort or style With its simple design and dependable construction, it can help make any journey easier so you can focus on enjoying your destination rather than fighting with your luggage With that in mind, let's explore another great option in our next section - the Timbuk2 Samsonite EST Big Hit trolley backpack - that offers excellent maneuverability yet still manages to remain lightweight

The Timbuk2 Samsonite EST Big Hit trolley backpack

The Timbuk2 Samsonite EST Big Hit trolley backpack is a great option for the traveler looking for a durable and reliable wheeled backpack Unlike the AmazonBasics Rolling Backpack, which comes in one single color option, the Timbuk2 Samsonite EST Big Hit trolley backpack is available in three different colors allowing travelers to choose the perfect bag that fits their style The polyester outer fabric of the Timbuk2 Samsonite EST Big Hit trolley backpack offers superior durability against wear and tear from rough handling than its counterpart

In terms of storage capacity, the Timbuk2 Samsonite EST Big Hit trolley backpack provides greater capacity with its 30-liter storage volume compared to 25 liters offered by the AmazonBasics Rolling Backpack With an external pocket design and functional internal organizational pockets, it is easier to organizes items within the bag Furthermore, its use of thick foam shoulder straps makes carrying the bag more comfortable than its competitor

One area where the AmazonBasics Rolling Backpack has a slight advantage over the Timbuk2 Samsonite EST Big Hit trolley backpack is its weight at 471 pounds versus 593 pounds for the latter bag However, some would argue that due to increased storage capacity, durability and comfort features, sacrificing some weight is well worth it in order to gain these benefits In our opinion, we think both bags offer excellent benefits depending on an individual's needs All in all, both bags provide enough features that satisfy most travelers’ requirements

According to surveys, most travelers prefer wheeled backpacks over traditional backpacks due to their convenience and comfort when travelingA study by The Nielsen Company found that wheeled backpacks accounted for 24% of backpack purchases in the US in 2019In a survey of 1,000 travelers, an overwhelming 92% said that they would choose a wheeled backpack as their primary piece of luggage when traveling

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a hardside and a softside wheeled backpack

The main difference between a hardside and softside wheeled backpack is the materials they are made from Hardside backpacks are typically constructed from solid plastic or metal shells, providing greater protection for the items inside and superior durability over the long-term On the other hand, softside backpacks are usually constructed from fabrics such as nylon or canvas, making them lighter in weight but less resistant to wear and tear 

Additionally, hardside backpacks tend to have more compartments and organization features due to their rigid shape, while softside varieties generally have fewer compartments and less organizational options Ultimately, your choice of hardside or softside should come down to your personal preference based on factors like weight, durability, looks and features

What are the key features to look for in a wheeled backpack for travel

When searching for the best wheeled backpacks for travel, there are several key features to consider First and foremost, make sure the bag is made from durable materials that can withstand wear and tear from frequent use Additionally, look for bags that have a number of pockets, both inside and out—this will help you keep your items organized and easily accessible It's also important to make sure the bag has ample space to store all of your belongings 

Finally, pay attention to the wheels on the backpack—make sure they have enough traction to handle different terrains but are still comfortable to maneuver Other features, such as insulated pockets or adjustable straps can also be useful depending on your needs

What are the best wheeled backpacks for traveling long distances

The best wheeled backpacks for traveling long distances are those that have good wheels and comfortable straps, as well as a sturdy frame and plenty of storage space When picking out a wheeled backpack for long trips, look for ones that have padded straps, a telescoping handle, tough zippers and plenty of interior compartments to keep things organized Also, try to select a backpack with quality construction materials that are both lightweight and waterproof 

You’ll want something going to be durable enough to withstand numerous trips in varying terrains and provide you with the right amount of support Finally, be sure to pick a backpack with multiple carrying options like side handles or trolley straps so it can easily attach to a rolling cart or trolley if needed