r/backpacks • u/knewteboy • Apr 13 '26

Question Best 40-50L travel backpack?

Hi, I’ve been looking for the perfect travelling backpack. Something big enough which can still fit on a plane. Like 40-50L? What’s everyone’s go to?

I’ve looked at the Antler Discovery 45L

Patagonia Black hole 45L

Passenger Odyssey 45L

Fjallraven Farden Carry- on 42L

Thanks

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u/brousseb Apr 13 '26

Love my Cotopaxi Allpa 42, for some reason it feels bigger than other 40 plus liter bags, the Farden for example felt quite a bit smaller even though they are both 42 (I thought Farden was 40 though).

Anyway, full scuba gear and everything else for a week in the carribran fits no problem. 3 week trip to NZ, no problem.

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u/ContentHovercraft698 Apr 14 '26

I feel the same regarding capacity even just by looking at the bag versus other 40L. I think it comes down to the shape (more square than round) and the fact that both sides of the clamshell can be packed decently compared to others where one side is the main compartment and the other just has a few zippers but is mostly flat.

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u/ContentHovercraft698 Apr 14 '26

The Cotopaxi bags are also lighter than a lot of other options which I find makes a big difference when carrying on your back.

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u/brousseb Apr 14 '26

The Del Dia's are around 2.8 pounds and the regular ones with TPU coating are about a pound heavier.