Travel Backpacks
Travel Backpacks Designed for Every Journey
From airline carry-on backpacks and compact travel packs to large-capacity backpacking and hybrid travel backpacks, Caribee designs travel gear built for real-world adventures. Trusted by Australian travellers since 1965, our travel backpacks combine durable construction, practical organisation and comfortable carrying systems for everything from short trips to extended adventures. Explore our complete range of backpacks for everyday travel or browse our rucksacks for hiking, trekking and multi-day adventures.
Choosing the Right Travel Backpack
The right travel backpack should give you enough space for your trip without becoming difficult to carry. Consider your destination, trip length, airline requirements and preferred carrying style, then choose the capacity, organisation and features that best suit the way you travel. Caribee's travel backpack range includes compact carry-on options, larger backpacking packs and versatile hybrid designs for Australian travellers exploring Australia and the world.
Key Features to Look For in a Travel Backpack
- Carry-on friendly designs for travellers who want to take a backpack into the aircraft cabin, subject to airline size and weight restrictions.
- Comfortable carrying systems including padded shoulder straps, supportive harnesses and practical grab handles.
- Suitcase-style or clamshell openings on selected models for easier packing and access to your gear.
- Multiple compartments to help organise clothing, footwear, electronics, travel documents and everyday essentials.
- Padded laptop and tablet protection on selected travel backpacks for keeping technology protected while travelling.
- Detachable daypacks on selected larger models, giving you a smaller pack for sightseeing, day trips and everyday exploration.
- Durable materials and construction designed to withstand the demands of frequent travel.
- Hybrid backpack and wheeled systems on selected models for travellers who want the flexibility of carrying a backpack or rolling it when convenient.
Which Size Travel Backpack Should I Choose?
The ideal travel backpack capacity depends on the length and style of your trip, how lightly you pack and whether you need to meet airline cabin baggage requirements.
- 35L–45L — A practical choice for carry-on travel, weekend trips and shorter holidays. Always check your airline's current external size and weight limits before travelling.
- 50L–65L — A versatile size for longer trips when you need more packing space without moving into a very large travel pack.
- 65L–80L — Ideal for extended holidays, overseas travel and backpacking adventures where additional clothing and equipment are required.
- 80L+ — High-capacity travel packs for extended journeys, expedition-style travel and travellers who need maximum packing space.
Capacity is only one part of choosing the right travel backpack. Consider the backpack's external dimensions, weight, harness system, internal organisation and the way you intend to travel.
What Type of Travel Backpack Is Right for Me?
Different travel styles call for different backpack designs. Caribee's range covers several travel backpack formats to suit different journeys.
- Carry-on travel backpacks — Compact packs designed for shorter trips and cabin travel, subject to airline requirements.
- Backpacking travel packs — Larger-capacity backpacks designed for extended travel, gap years, overseas adventures and longer journeys.
- Hybrid travel backpacks — Versatile designs that combine backpack carrying with wheels and a trolley system on selected models.
- Wheeled travel backpacks — A practical option for travellers who want to roll their luggage through airports and stations while retaining backpack functionality when required.
Explore our Carry-On Backpack Collection for compact travel options, or browse our larger rucksacks for hiking, trekking and multi-day outdoor adventures.
Travel Backpack or Suitcase?
A travel backpack can offer greater flexibility when you're moving between airports, public transport, accommodation and uneven surfaces. Carrying your luggage on your back can make stairs, crowded streets and destinations without lifts easier to navigate.
A suitcase can be preferable when most of your journey involves smooth floors and you prefer not to carry your luggage. Hybrid travel backpacks offer another option, allowing you to switch between backpack and wheeled modes depending on the terrain and situation.
Travel Backpack FAQs
What size travel backpack is best for carry-on travel?
A travel backpack between 35L and 45L can be a practical choice for carry-on travel, but airline acceptance depends on the backpack's external dimensions and weight as well as the airline's current cabin baggage allowance. Explore our Carry-On Backpack Collection for travel-ready options.
How many litres should a travel backpack be?
For shorter trips and carry-on travel, many travellers choose a backpack around 35L–45L. Longer journeys may require 50L–80L or more depending on how you pack, your destination and the equipment you need to carry.
What is the best travel backpack for overseas travel?
The best travel backpack depends on your trip length, packing style and how you plan to move between destinations. Look for comfortable carrying systems, durable construction, useful organisation and a capacity suited to your journey. Hybrid models can also provide the convenience of wheels when travelling through airports and stations.
Are wheeled travel backpacks worth it?
Wheeled or hybrid travel backpacks can be a useful choice for travellers who regularly move between airports, hotels and public transport. They provide the flexibility to roll your luggage on smooth surfaces and carry it when stairs, uneven ground or crowded areas make wheels less practical.
What is the difference between a travel backpack and a backpacking pack?
Travel backpacks are generally designed around organised packing, transport and moving between destinations, while backpacking and hiking packs are more focused on carrying comfort over longer distances and outdoor terrain. For multi-day hiking and trekking, explore our Hiking Backpacks and Rucksacks.
Can I use a travel backpack for hiking?
Travel backpacks are primarily designed for travel rather than technical hiking. For multi-day bushwalking, trekking and outdoor adventures, choose a pack designed specifically for the trail. Explore our Hiking Backpacks or Rucksacks for outdoor-focused options.