Hey Guys, Im after a good travel backpack that is as big as possible without having to check in luggage, anyone bought anything decent, or found any decent cheaper brands? looking to spend as under $300 as possible. Thanks
I Bought the Aldi one recently and was very unimpressed.. Possibly something like this with a better price tag?
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/NEW-Blackwolf-Grand-Teton-65L-Tra…
+1 for Borealis, I only carry that for 5-6 day trips.
Yeah I agree that its probably more appropriate for shorter trips but its still do-able for longer trips. But yeah great bag.
+1 for North Face. I bought a "Big Shot" in 2008 for exactly the same reasons, largest backpack I could carry on board European budget airlines. The Big Shot was the biggest that fit under the most restrictive of those rules. I still use it on a daily basis, and although it shows its use, I've not had anything break on it, no fraying straps, it's super comfortable and not once did an airline question me carrying it on board (75+ flights over a 5 year period).
Man, I don't know how you do it, I can't fit everything I want for uni in it sometimes. You did the two undies, two socks and spare tshirt travel method?
Well I was in the states and it was hot so I only needed thin clothes. I had enough for about 5-7 days worth so I just had to go to a laundromat. Damn better than paying $20USD for luggage on every single flight I went on….
cool, im wondering the biggest litre size i can get without having to check in or pissing people off on the plane too much?
If you look at the dimensions most airlines allow it's about 45 litres. Once you take into account the size of the bag and the fact it won't exactly match the dimensions, you can probably only get a bag that holds 30 litres or so.
this is unfortunately hard to answer. airlines will have different official policies, and to compound things (in my experience) these are typically only enforced when a passenger is egregiously abusing their carry-on luggage. Note that jetstar/virgin is usually the lowest I generally slum so don't have my experience with the ultra cut-throat airlines e.g. tiger so YMMV.
I recently bought a Wilderness Equipment Big Day Out backpack which I'm a big fan of and regularly use it as my carryon bag (there are 3 sizes - I bought the largest). I consider it to be about the sensible limit to what could be reasonably brought onto carry on. Could probably rave about it all day but details below:
http://wildernessequipment.com.au/detail.php?Code=Big%20Day%… - I think it retails for about $180, I got mine for ~$150 from a shop in Brisbane valley.
When fully packed technically it does not meet the weight or size requirements of most carryon policies for airlines but I've never had a problem with it on the 5+ jetstar/qantas flights I've been on since owning.
Pros
- Decent capacity
- Hip straps (with pockets) that can rotate away. These are great for folding up when boarding because it looks a lot less bulky and is more easily maneuverable. However unlike a lot of other bags in this size range, they are full featured and do a fantastic job of taking the load off the shoulders.
- Adjustable and lightweight back frame. It's a malleable metal rod which you can bend into whatever shape you desire. I find this useful to set to a convex profile when I don't need capacity to give a bit of breathing space between my back and the bag, or a flatter/concave profile for extra capacity.
- Bladder compartment
- Heaps of external straps which combined with carabiners and other bags means you can lug around a lot more if you so desire (I have used it to carry snowboard, 2xkites, bar, pump, kite harness, all strapped to the outside. Bit clunky but okay for an hour or two of hiking.
- Big and easily accessible side pockets for bottles etc
- Overload panel is very useful for stuffing quick access gear
- Aussie company (If you care about that sort of thing, which I don't)
- 1.3 kg dry weight is pretty good for what it is.
Downsides (last 2 points are nit picking more than anything)
- Not enough zippered utility pockets.
- Hip pockets too small.
- No laptop compartment.
- Hip adjustment straps a little more cumbersome than other systems I've seen - can be an issue if you need to frequently adjust them (in 99% of cases you shouldn't as you can set it to your waist and use the buckle)
- Overload straps are placed in a way that can interfere with fully opening the bag. But honestly - I haven't seen a bag with similar carrying capacity that doesn't have this sort of problem
Take a look at my comment below, but the Porter 46 is actually designed with the dimensions of carry on in mind - it maxes out every dimension possible and adds compression straps to allow further packing. Because it fits the dimensions of most airlines perfectly, you'll find that it slips into the overhead locker vertically on most planes 737 and larger - so your don't have to lay it length ways and take up half the compartment.
Legend. Been eyeing off the Porter 46 for a while - now purchased (and a Daylite 13L to go with it).
Victorinox bag pack. My last just over a decade now and still going strong. I took it every where with me when I travel :)
bag back knife?
Victorinox makes bag pack as well :P
Well I bought a $20 one like 8 years ago and it's been on many interstate trips and to like 8 countries. Doesn't look aesthetically brilliant but it is practical and large. And it must've saved me hundreds in checked luggage.
I also use those roll-up vacuum seal travel bags. For travelling light you can also get one of those lightweight travel towels.
Thats enough of that practical sensible talk, $150+ phone and backpack owners wont stand for it.
how do you travel back without a vacuum handy for your bags?
They are roll up bags especially for travelling. Just roll to squeeze out the air.
Deuter ACT lite 40 + 10L
watching some reviews now, thanks
I've got it and it's a fantastic bag! Haven't taken it overseas but from what I've read it's perfect for carry on for most airlines
Unfortunately too tall for many budget airline carry-on.
I have a number of deuter bags, I use a 27l for travelling, however a 30l would be more practical.
It fits comfortably into an overhead locker,and can carry a surprising amount.
I can't fault the brand.
I'm travelling with a deuter trans alpine 30L right now. Fits into the carry on box at the check in.
There is an extra panel to keep sweat away from the bag, a necessity for hot countries. But it doesn't sit still when you put it down vertically due to this feature.
It also has a helmet holder feature where you can put a day pack. ie. wear as much clothes as you can on the plane and put it in the day pack when you get off.
The compartments always have room to fit stuff even when you have stuffed the main compartment. The main compartment doesn't squeeze everything out of the other compartments.
1160g, never had problems with check in.
Got mine for $132 on ebay.
The act lite 40L + 10 is 75cm high, it may not be a carry if you're flying a discount airline.
Osprey far point 40. Great bag.
I can't wait to use this bag. Bought it a few months ago from ozbargain sale. It's very roomy and comfortable on my back (I've started packing it with my travel necessities)
I can't comment on this bag in particular, but I have the Osprey Talon 22 and it's a brilliant, great quality bag.
I did 12 + months backpacking through 30 countries with the farpoint 40.
it was flawless, can't recommend enough.
My wife and I used the "bag finder" search on LowePro to find camera backpacks that are "carry-on" compatible - the search is a little wonky because when we checked the airline's sites - usually one size up in the same bag still came under the carry on rule. We ended up buying two bags under $200 that will fit all our kit and our day stuff.
you don't need to spend more than $200. Check out the Boreas line of bags, they have some really sleek looking and minimalist type bags that you can fit a lot of stuff in for one bagging around the world.
This is Ozbargain, what type of response is that?
I would rather buy osprey as recommended above than Kathmandu.
I think (hope) this is sarcasm. it is well known that Kathmandu caters to rich middle class folk with more dollars than sense.
Joe Hockey? Is that you?
Story 1:
One day one of my brothers, brother A, bought a metal flask for $12 from K-Mart. Due to a design flaw, it leaked.
Brother B, then told him, what do you expect if you buy a cheap ass flask from KMart, go to Kathmandu and get a something better quality.
So, brother A went to Kathmandu, found the exact same flask (except with 'kathmandu' written on it) with same design flaw, but the asking price was $40.
Epilogue: he later saw exact same one at Bunnings, with the Bunnings logo, for $10.
Story 2:
My colleague wanted to get a warm jacket each for her and her husband, but didn't want to look like those 'couples' who wear the same clothes. So, she got one from Macpac, and one from Kathmandu. Her husband then proceeded to demonstrate to her that they were the exact same design, probably from the same factory. Which explains why she often grabs his by mistake and vice versa.
Conclusion:
Most Kathmandu is mostly just no name factory stuff relabeled with an exorbitant RRP (any wonder why they're almost always having massive sales).
As others have mentioned, companies like Osprey etc taking pride in their products should get much more respect.
TL;DR - Your comment is bad, and you should feel bad.
There was some reports globally in June about the allowable cabin bag size being reduced soon, with check-in staff being a little more observant & not allowing over-sized bags through as hand luggage.
Search cabin bag size change will give a list of the reports.
To start you off:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travel-advice/11667594/Sma…
http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonkblog/wp/2015/06/09/ai…
http://www.itv.com/news/2015-06-10/airlines-to-reduce-cabin-…
The money you want to spend on a backpack so as to save on checked in baggage buys a lot of checked in baggage
OP hasn't shared their travel plans but it's often much more practical travelling light, especially for long trips and especially when travelling alone.
Lugging a 23kg suitcase through a city, or on a train, or after arriving at a bus station where everyone is trying rip to you off, is a nightmare. A 7-10kg bag on your back is much friendlier, and I found I could walk a couple kilometers comfortably where it would be impossible to have a suitcase.
Who said anything about a 23kg suitcase?
I travel for months at a time with about 12kg in a bag with wheels.
If I can afford to fly around the world on a jet I can afford to use taxis or drivers.
I sure as hell wont cheap out by lugging my stuff around on foot or catch buses.
Having a suitcase also allows me to bring a few KG of extra stuff back
Tortuga is an American brand that ships to Australia.
Bought one for my son who travelled around Europe for three months and he was very happy.
I bought the Tortuga Air: the smaller version for myself. It's great but had a stitching defect. They immediately shipped a new one out to me without questioning.
Hope that helps.
I just took the Air with me to Samoa, problem with the bag is after international exchange and postage this bag doesn't leave much change from $400
I bought a school backpack from KMart for $17 when on special from the usual price of $29. Mayhem brand.
Weighs 800gm empty and about the dimensions for carry on. Fits in test frame at airports.
Takes 7kg of luggage no problems. Any more and it starts to bulge.
I have done a dozen trips with it.
I use my Kathmandu school bag. Its around 30L. Have used it for trips up to a month.
I do try to wash my clothes every week though so don't need to carry as much
I would put my money on a Kelty Redwing 50L. Been around for ages and it is still a top bag. Other than that I guess the Osprey Farpoint is an easy enough to get your hands on option. I'm not a fan personally, had an osprey bag and the first time used it got holes in from friction. Ripstop might prevent rips but it useless against friction and you bag is more likely to experience friction than ripping.
I bought this bag: http://www.tortugabackpacks.com/collections/all/products/tor…
for a trip i took at the beginning of the year. I've used many backpacks before and this one is the bees knees. Thee bag itself is well made and comfortable. The design is well thought out and i didn't feel like i didn't have enough room. I took it for 6 weeks and it was plenty and i'm about to take it for 2 months.
My advice: don't skimp on the bag. This isn't to say that you have to spend all the dollars on a bag, but don't make your decision solely on the cheaper bag, you will regret it when (not if) it breaks. Some people have luck with cheap bags over a long time and thats great but i myself am not prepared to risk all my things ( the bag is literally the only thing i have with me) falling out in public somewhere.
Another note: The money you save on check-in is great but its not the best thing about this bag. The feeling you have knowing that you don't need anything other than your bag is priceless. you get off planes faster, you are on the public transport faster. I can't actually make you understand it as its something you'll need to feel.
Tl:dr. Buy a good carry on bag. Check out the one i suggested
+1 for the Tortuga. I am involved with a 'digital nomad' community who spend their lives traveling and working, and many of them don't take checked-in luggage with them. I'm going to be doing this in a few months myself, and the Tortuga is at the top of my list as it is the one that is always brought up.
The other one that comes highly recommended is the Minaal (http://www.minaal.com). It's slightly smaller and doesn't have the waist strap (which is important for shifting the weight from your shoulders to your hip bones). However, it's much nicer looking than the Tortuga IMO.
Have the Minaal. Was a kickstarter backer. It did come with a removable waist strap which I have to admit I removed on the first day and as such have not used. Having said that, It's a great bag and I can't recommend it enough. I am normally a "heavy" traveller but have shifted my travelling habits due to just how much I can fit comfortably into this bag. It's great.
Yeah sorry I got confused regarding the waist strap. The Minaal has one, but the Tortuga has a 'hip belt' which actually takes all of the weight of the bag on your hips (important if you're carrying weight for a long time). The Minaal waist strap is just to stop the bag moving around so much.
I travel heaps but prefer to check in and carry only a small cabin bag. Getting thru customs, security and everything is painful. Especially if u have to disembark at a stopover. Imagine having to open your bag and pull everything out at the screenings and X-ray mahines.
Just pack smart. I have a ziplock bag with liquids at the top. Takes 15 seconds to pull it out. Just did 4 carry on only flights in Europe and skipping the baggage collection meant by passing the crowd
Was yours with a big 40l or 65l pack? And a long extended travel, or just a trip? Depends on the travel in my view, but over a while traveling different towns and cities you don't know what you pick up and it's easy to have something in your bag that needed to be checked in.
35 liters officially (but feels closer to 40), both trekking the camino and city fashion, 3 weeks. My bag is a tardis, I've purchased an extra dress, jeans and four tops, and I'm planning to raid an outlet store tomorrow.
Edited to add: I travelled 4 months two years ago with a similar size. I do laundry when necessary.
sometimes better to check in in really strict countries like US. security checks took ages. but that was only country we wished we had no hand luggage at all.
+1 for no check-in baggage
You could support local :)
http://www.bogear.com.au/packs/travel/spare-camel-backpack
And you can customise it for a few extra dollars.
I'm backpacking Europe at the moment, using the Litehaul 38L from Kathmandu. It does the job ok. I really wanted the Osprey Farpoint 40L, but I was in a bit of a hurry and needed to buy from a physical store. At the time, I couldn't find a store that sold the Osprey.
Whichever you choose, make sure you actually try it out first, before making the purchase.
I have this: http://www.meivoyageur.com/
Yes, I've used it as carry on luggage on several trips! Fantastic bag. Excellent quality, fair price. Being able to open it like a suitcase, yet carry it as a backpack makes it very versatile. Currently about $150 AUD unless you can find cheaper
Hey OP, i'm really surprised no one has mentioned this one yet - but it's pretty much the most popular amongst backpackers in Asia/Europe going for the purpose that you want it for. The Osprey Porter 46L is really good value, sub $150 and maxes out the carry-on dimensions for Jetstar, Scoot, AirAsia and pretty much every other airline on earth. I tried the Tortuga mentioned before in this thread, decided to sell it as it did not offer the space of the Osprey, the Osprey also has compression straps, which helps fit considerably more in.
Don't discount it for being small in the picture, the compression straps really help it make look smaller though. My most recent trip to Mackay i fitted 6 T-shirts, 2 Polo's, 4 pairs of Chino/jeans, packed to the brim toiletries bag and 2 pairs of shoes, and a Macbook + accompanying stuff. If you want any pictures of something, send me a PM and i'll drag it our of storage and send a few over to you.
The bag you have there is 65L and there is no chance you will get it onto any budget flight, and I would be sceptical about Qantas and Virgin too. I spent a while trying different bags, allot were too big, both space wise and dimensions, others did not offer support, but the Osprey managed to tick every single box possible - all while managing to get me onto $19 Jetstar flights for no extra $$$.
Agree with Mikeologos - I have an Osprey Porter 46 and its pretty much my exclusive go-to bag for all flights where I'm travelling with carry-on luggage only. Have probably saved enough money not buying carry-on luggage to pay for the bag :)
Only gripe I have with the Porter is that it isn't a very comfortable backpack. it is really designed to be carried for the minimum amount of time possible (only has thin straps, no back padding or anything). Would have been nice if it came with a shoulder strap. Depending on your usage, you might want to check out the Osprey Transporter as well.
Yeah the back padding is a problem, but i find it fine with loads under 10KG, which isn't a problem if your going carry-on. Most airlines have a 7 or 10KG limit. Over 10KG though and i'd recommend something more substantial.
if you could cram more than 10kg of usable travel stuff into this backpack id be impressed (short of filling it with lead or water)
the best part about the porter is the fact that the cover completely unzips open - makes it so easy to pack efficiently. compare to a top-loading ordinary hiking rucksack (which is a nightmare to pack!)
I'll second the Porter 46. Spent 4 months backpacking Southeast Asia with it and it served me very well.
As LiamF pointed out below, Virgin have a fixed 105cm bag limit (48cm x 34cm x 23cm).
Some non-Australian carriers limit depth to 19-20cm.
This. Osprey porter 46. Always use this for trips without check-in. Best thing about it is probably how light it weighs when empty, followed by the amount of things it will fit.
Take a look here. Sub USD200 sub 40L backpacks. All brands there are pretty reliable. In my experience, granite gear, osprey and mountain smith has pretty good straps and back contours for heavy loads as well as useful organization compartments. Free shipping over USD400. Can throw in a soft shell, rain jacket or insulated jacket (MUCH MUCH BETTER VALUE+QUALITY FOR MONEY THAN KATHMANDU OR MOUNTAIN DESIGNS NONSENSE, I swear).
http://www.campsaver.com/camp-hike/backpacks/backpacking/bac…
None of those Backpacking Packs look like they’d fit budget airline carry-on restrictions. Their Thule Crossover 32L is a 115cm bag but it's too deep for Jetstar, Tiger and Rex (and far too big for Virgin). Kathmandu currently have a 38L bag with similar dimensions for $5 less and it has more padding :p
http://www.campsaver.com/thule-crossover-32l-backpack
http://www.kathmandu.com.au/litehaul-pack-v3-38l-black-1.htm…
Possibly useful information:
In terms of domestic Australian flights:
The main disadvantage of a backpack style bag is that if you're unlucky, and you're over those measurements (and can't convincingly squish it into them), they're a pain to check in - buckles get stuck in belts, and the bag runs a much greater risk of being ripped up. You might be able to find a design that mitigates these problems - if not, sticking with a brand like Crumpler (with good guarantees), Osprey (good part supply), Samsonite/Antler (fantastic local warranty service in Australia) or Chrome (bulletproof) is a good idea if you're looking at sinking this kind of money into it.
The mei bag I mentioned above allows you to tuck away all straps and carry like a suitcase. Other bags may also have this feature
I've never had trouble with my 70L backpacks while travelling. I have travelled with two of those, interstate, thailand, china, new zealand. Osprey and mountain hardwear.
Flat out best maximum carry on bag I have owned and had the pleasure of using is the Aeronaut 45 BY Tom Bihn in the US closer to $400 than your $300 mark check it out here http://www.tombihn.com/PROD/TB0906.html
another option I looked at before going with the porter was the caribee sky master: https://www.snowys.com.au/Travel/Luggage/Sky-Master-40-Carry…
bit of a bargain at $89 compared with what you'll normally pay for a porter (although I got mine for Christmas a few years ago - top OzBargain tip for saving money :D)
EDIT - never mind $84.90 here with free shipping http://www.traveluniverse.com.au/Sky-Master-40-Carry-On-Blac…
all well and good but would these (fully packed) put you over the 6-7kg limit of most airlines for carry on?
ive been pulled up by Jetstar in cairns before for having overweight carry on (small 20L backpack) and told to loose the weight or pay some crazy rate :(
Osprey Porter 46 for 97$ using 15% off ebay code and cashback from here http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Osprey-Porter-46-Trekking-Gear-Ha…
Great find! Shame there's no black :(
They added black just before the sale ended! I managed to grab one
Sorry commented in the wrong section.
40 L is a good starting point, if its for hiking consider 30L as the back structure and supports add alot of bulk. Its really just down to who you'll be flying with really. Deuter are a great pack, sold heaps of them when in retail, perfect for most things and 3-5 day trips…depending on your pack habits. Keep an eye out for pulls and loops to hang from so you can add bulky items to the outside.
Me and the wifey backpacking through Sin, Malay, China, Tai, Japan(only me) we just used a Litehaul 38L from Kathmandu. Got it for $100 each, you put stuff in it…great, off we went. Name, brands and recommendations you can only take with a grain of salt because it is HIGHLY unlikely they will be the exact same body mass, structure and bone figure as you which means their experience might not apply. Always try them before buying, preferably with about 20kgs in the actual bag (bring some books or bricks).
Honest tip, spend more time figuring out what you can leave behind. Anything you say "maybe" to (might use this…maybe i'll need that…what if..), leave it at home. It will save you backache and cash depending on if you are border lining carry on restrictions. Unless you are planning a solo journey trekking through the Antarctic or slogging it through the deserts of Africa..you can buy whatever you need at your destination (in most cases cheaper than what Aus has).
2nd'ed bag and tips.
For OP:
The Litehaul 38L v3 is $125 at the moment. I have a similar kathmandu pack with similar straps and back support. The Litehual will be extremely comfy carrying your 5-8kg's of carry-on (depending which airlines you take).
The main problem is many airlines limit carry-on. The Litehaul v3 is a 115cm bag but is slightly too deep for Jetstar and Tiger, as are most 115cm backpacks. If you self-check-in, keep it out of view from the stewardess while waiting AND keep it on your back as you board you might be able to carry-on… Virgin and many other international carriers have a 105cm bag limit (An excellent 105cm bag might carry 30L).
But most people are suggesting 40L bags/115cm bags, and this is one of the strongest, lightest, and most durable while being comfortable and having a similar format to a small suitcase.
Black Litehaul 38L v3 (shows back of bag)
http://www.kathmandu.com.au/packs-and-bags/packs/litehaul-pa…
Olive Litehaul 38L v3 (shows inside bag)
http://www.kathmandu.com.au/packs-and-bags/packs/litehaul-pa…
My pack (Voltai 40L v1) has taken a ton of abuse. With it I've carried 30kg, walked through thick scrub, run, scrambled and walked long distances. Not a tear and the bag still smells like new. The Voltai is a hiking pack so it's lighter and more delicate than a Litehaul.
The Litehaul is $106.25 with the 15% off ebay deal that's going on, for anyone who's interested:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Kathmandu-APS-Litehaul-Convertibl…
Where will you be travelling?
i have an Oakley Kitchen Sink….to call it insanely awesome to look at is an understatement. Their warranty service is also really handy. It does weigh a bit empty though, theres a lot of steel on it.
Most of the backpacks above are heavy. Litehaul 1.42kg, Voltai 1.19kg, Osprey Porter 1.5kg.
This weight is a significant part of a 7kg allowance.
I have only had my backpack weighed at check-in. Usually 7 point something kilo and passed ok. Once 9.1kg and I said I had to change to jeans and coat for the flight. Allowed through and changed before boarding. I have never been weighed at boarding (Virgin, Tiger, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia).
Virgin policy mentioned as smallest at 48 x 34 x 23 is 38 litres.
My KMart Mayhem school backpack is 48 x 32 x 20 (maybe bigger when packed) and 800gm.
check in online or at a kiosk and you won't have the issue of being weighed at check-in. :)
I always check in online and I still have to go to the counter anyway (where they weigh the carry-ons and hand over the proper boarding pass). So maybe it depends on the airline..
What? when you check in online, you get a boarding pass to print out…then go straight to the gate. Am I missing something here?
Sorry, I didn't mean to recommend the Voltai as carry-on (it's too long). I was trying to say Kathmandu can make good bags and the Litehaul is better. Brain fart.
I never buy anything from Kathmandu, they are overprice, unless they are 90% off, lol
I've picked up shorts and jumpers for $20 each; pants, jackets, shirts and thick wool tees for $40; their top of the line soft shell and boots for ~$120.
On sale they are often the cheapest for this type of clothes in my region.
Don't get me wrong, some discounted stuff is weird and a few items I've bought have failed on me, but after lasting twice as long as something similar from kmart.
I totally agree with you, I prefer North Face stuff, they are more stylist, better design :)
Check out Cabinmax backpacks. They can carry a lot and fit dimensions of most carry on airlines (essentially all). Used it several times for travelling, including backpacking around Europe for 4 weeks, and have borrowed it to friends for similar trips. It can really pack in a lot and it's been durable, had it for 2 years now and no fault with them
ebags make some of the best stuff of all - their own brands are brilliant. Check out the weekender series - you can get them on ebay. With the low aussie dollar, they're probably becoming less competitive, but they are still a great option. You'll never regret buying an ebags bag.
Airlines are rather inconsistent. I have had a 50l backpack that I was expecting to check in and Virgin let me carry on. On the return leg I was expecting to carry on and they made me check in.
dont forget about weight too. I was in the area getting the carry on luggage scanned. I saw them holding back a back which was within size but overweight. I noticed on the plane too that there are warnings about weight too
the osprey farpoint 55 is a decent bag, its a 40L carry on + a 15L day pack
Maybe check out the North Face? https://thenorthface.com.au/
I recently traveled around the states for a couple of weeks with nothing but the Borealis bag (https://thenorthface.com.au/product/borealis-2#A92YA7U)
Also, sign up down the bottom for 10% off.