The Best Daypack for Travel! Best Choices

When I’m traveling I want to make the absolute most out of my days. Many times this means packing a bag early in the morning that will be full of anything you could possibly need until late in the evening. Having to stop for necessities during the day will just slow you down, cost more and none of us want that. While this holds true for all travelers, it is especially important for families. Little munchkins need more throughout the day than you can possibly imagine, from snacks to wipes to band-aids. Because we know how important it is to have all these things easily available to you, we’ve broken down how to find the best daypack for travel. The main difference between a daypack and a backpack is size. They’re typically a little bigger and designed for long-term wearing, which you definitely need whether you have kids or not.

The Best Daypack for Travel! [A look at the 10 Best Choices]

The Best Daypack for Travel - A look at the top 10 choices

What to Look for in the Best Daypack for Travel

Activity-Specific Features

The things you are going to want in your daypack will vary greatly depending on what your adventure includes. For example, if you will be hiking you probably want lots of good space to store water bottles and something that won’t weigh you down. When you know you’ll be roughing it often, you should look for a pack made of durable materials that won’t wear even if you’re pushing through a jungle.

If you’ll be in the snow, there are certain daypacks that you can clamp skis, a snowboard, or snowshoes right on to. On the other hand if you’ll be documenting your travels or taking breaks at a coffee shop, a secure laptop pouch might be at the top of your priorities. When flying with your daypack you will want to ensure it meets carry on guidelines.

The Fit

Don’t be afraid to go try some daypacks on. Many stores that sell them have employees who can help you find the pack most suited to your needs, but also one that fits you well. They are also there to teach you how to adjust the bag, and let me tell you when they are adjusted right it can make a huge difference in your capability to carry for long hours. Surprisingly, the fit isn’t so much about your height but instead your torso length.

Holding Capacity

Depending on how much you’ll need to carry, you will need to pay attention the holding capacity of the daypack. They typically range from 10-50 liters, and a sweet spot for families is usually right around the middle at 25.

Access to Open

Daypacks can open many different ways; from the top, the bottom, the front, the sides. It’s really just a personal preference as to what you find the easiest. I would recommend trying out one that opens from the sides because they are easy to open while on someone else’s back.

The Best Daypack for Travel: Top 10 Choices

Eagle Creek Wayfinder

Eagle Creek Wayfinder Backpack Mini

My top choice is the Eagle Creek Wayfinder Backpack Mini. I love the fleece lined tech pocket for stashing my smartphone or travel documents when we are traveling abroad. The exterior zippered pocket with keyfob is essential for all the mamas that want to remember where they put their keys (also comes in handy to store some hair rubberbands too). There are plenty of pockets and flaps to keep everything organized and a super stretchy side pocked to store your water bottle so that you can stay hydrated on the go. Plus, most importantly it is super comfortable and small enough to not be obnoxious while still allowing you plenty of room to store necessities!!

Eagle Creek also has a cross body version that is great if you are traveling where pickpocketing is common. I often prefer a cross body when I travel internationally.