Unearth The Voyage
Planning a year of flights, trains, and trails? The right backpack can make or break your travel-hiking days, keeping you comfortable, organized, and ready for anything. In 2025, new suspension tech and smarter access points meet lighter, tougher materials—perfect for on-the-go adventurers. Dive in to find packs that breathe in heat, stabilize on rocky routes, and open like luggage at bustling hostels.
Osprey Talon 33 / Tempest 30
The Osprey Talon 33 and Tempest 30 remain the traveler-hiker’s sweet spot for 2025. They’re light, durable, and impressively breathable thanks to the AirScape back panel, which keeps sweat under control in warm, humid destinations. A body-hugging fit and stable carry make them feel secure while scrambling or speed walking between terminals. Testers loved the stretch mesh pockets, roomy main compartment, and smart pole attachment that actually gets used. With excellent packability and tidy compression, they stash overhead or under hostel bunks without fuss. Versatile enough for daily carry, ambitious day hikes, or lean overnights, they balance comfort, storage, and access better than most competitors this year.
Deuter Futura 32
The Deuter Futura 32 nails long-distance comfort for travelers tackling mixed terrain. Its Aircomfort tensioned mesh back panel keeps air flowing on hot climbs, while the internal frame and hip belt steady heavier loads. The front U-zip acts like a suitcase, speeding repacks between bus rides and hostel check-ins. Testers praised the robust fabric, hydration compatibility, and intuitive pockets that keep snacks and layers close. The fit is forgiving yet supportive across a range of torso sizes. For warm-weather routes or humid jungles, ventilation is class-leading. If you want reliability, structure, and easy access without excessive weight, the Futura 32 is a standout, breathable choice for 2025.
Gregory Zulu 30 / Jade 28
Gregory’s Zulu 30 and Jade 28 shine with their FreeFloat suspension that moves with your stride, reducing hotspots for travel-heavy hiking days. The ventilated back panel and adjustable torso dial in a close fit, beneficial when conditions and layers change rapidly. Testers appreciated the supportive hip belt, quick-stash pockets, and included rain cover—handy when weather turns overseas. The layout makes sense without overcomplication, and the frame feels sturdy for its weight. They transition seamlessly from airports to alpine viewpoints, keeping gear organized for fast access. For travelers who value comfort and fit tuneability in a compact form, Zulu and Jade deliver performance that punches above their size.
Osprey Stratos 34 / Sirrus 36
The Osprey Stratos 34 and Sirrus 36 remain go-to packs for travelers who prioritize premium comfort and weather readiness. AirSpeed suspended mesh dramatically boosts airflow, great for sticky, long approaches. With top-loading access and side zippers, gear retrieval is easy without a full unload. The integrated rain cover raises confidence when storms appear mid-transit. Testers reported surprisingly stable carries with heavier loads, crediting a supportive frame and hip belt. Organization is thoughtful but not fussy, letting you adapt for day hikes or hut-to-hut overnights. If your itinerary mixes urban transfers with rugged trails, Stratos and Sirrus offer a cushioned ride and resilient, global-ready durability.
REI Co-op Traverse 32
The REI Co-op Traverse 32 is a smart travel-hiking crossover with durability and organization at a friendly weight. Its adjustable suspension and breathable back panel deliver day-long comfort across changing climates. The front U-zip opens like a suitcase, accelerating pack-ins during multi-stop trips. Testers highlighted the tough fabric, included rain cover, and stable hip belt for uneven trails. Pocketing hits the essentials—snacks, layers, and small travel items—without clutter. Compression straps tame bulk for overhead bins, and hydration compatibility keeps water handy. For travelers who want reliability, clean organization, and value, the Traverse 32 punches well above its price and stands ready for ambitious day missions.
Kelty Redwing 36
The Kelty Redwing 36 is a budget-friendly chameleon that toggles between travel bag and trail pack. Its hybrid panel-loader design grants quick access to layers, tech, and snacks, while a padded back panel and hip belt keep loads comfortable. Testers liked the generous pockets and rugged fabrics, which withstand bus racks and trail abrasion. Internal organization feels travel-savvy without overengineering. Compression straps and a tidy profile help it fit overhead, yet it carries enough for long day hikes or minimalist overnights. Affordable, spacious, and dependable, the Redwing 36 is a top choice for frequent flyers who value straightforward function and proven durability.
Patagonia Altvia Pack 36L
Patagonia’s Altvia Pack 36L blends eco-conscious materials with trail-ready performance for globe-trotting hikers. The recycled fabric with water-resistant finish shrugs off light rain and abrasion, while the breathable harness and ergonomic shaping stay comfortable on steeps. Testers praised the intuitive pocketing, clean lines, and secure fit that inspires confidence on exposed traverses. The weight stays low without feeling flimsy, a balance that’s welcome on long hauls. With sustainability bona fides and polished organization, it’s an easy recommendation for travelers who want less footprint and more capability. If style, ethics, and function matter equally, the Altvia 36L hits that rare, satisfying intersection in 2025.
Outdoor Research Talus 45L
The Outdoor Research Talus 45L is a travel-to-trail powerhouse for hikers carrying more kit. Its supportive suspension manages heavier loads, while the lightweight build keeps fatigue in check during long days. A wide U-zip grants fast organization, and compression straps cinch down unwieldy items. Testers highlighted its weather resistance and versatility, from hut travel to shoulder-season overnights. Despite the capacity, it packs cleanly and maintains balance on uneven ground. The layout is practical without being busy, making it easy to adapt for different destinations. For 2025, the Talus 45L stands out as a balanced, durable pick for ambitious itineraries.
Lowe Alpine AirZone Trail ND32 / AirZone Trail 30
Lowe Alpine’s AirZone Trail ND32 and Trail 30 excel at airflow and efficiency for hot-weather travel hikes. The AirZone suspended mesh back keeps sweat to a minimum, while a streamlined profile slips easily into overhead bins. Testers praised the supportive hip belt and durable yet tidy construction that forgoes unnecessary bulk. Pocketing is simplified but strategic, keeping essentials handy without clutter. They carry confidently on rocky, fast-moving trails and feel balanced when fully loaded. For travelers prioritizing breathability and low weight, these packs are trustworthy companions in 2025. Expect dependable comfort, fuss-free organization, and trail readiness from airport to summit.
Cotopaxi Tarak 20L / Tarak 30L
The Cotopaxi Tarak 20L and 30L bring rugged minimalism and bold personality to travel-focused hikes. Made from repurposed materials, each pack is uniquely colored, with a flexible strap system that adapts to climbing, hiking, or city exploring. The design is lighter and less structured than others here, prioritizing mobility and packability. Testers enjoyed the durable feel despite the lean build, plus the fast, intuitive lashing options. Organization is simple yet effective for essentials, while compression tames smaller loads. If you travel light and value sustainability, the Tarak series delivers a versatile, statement-making solution for 2025 adventures on and off the trail.
