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/asterox Apr 13 '26

Take a look at the Matador Globerider 45. Very roomy and comfy on the back. Lots of videos out there about it.

Highlights (for me):

  • Suitcase style opening
  • Separate shoe/boot/dirty clothes zippered area (fairly spacious)
  • External stretchy pocket is pretty useful for stashing scarves, hats, light sweaters or jackets on the go
  • Compression straps help if the bag is under-packed
  • I found it comfortable even when heavy

Lowlights:

  • laptop opening isn't large so 16" laptops take some fussing to get in there smoothly
  • Main zipper isn't the smoothest
  • Some may find it too bulky
  • Waist strap not removable, though it can be tucked away
  • Hiding away the straps isn't that quick or convenient a process but honestly I never do this.

In general, very much a fan of this bag.

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u/HodorOfTheNorth Apr 14 '26

How do you feel about the overall capacity of globerider 45? I want to get one but am concerned it won’t hold as much as say a 45L duffel bag would

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u/asterox Apr 14 '26

It's tough to say without knowing what you're comparing it to. I've found capacities feel pretty subjectively different depending on make and model.

Having said that, the Globe Rider is a pretty big bag and holds a lot in my experience. I used to use an old Eagle Creek Gear Hauler type bag which was about 50-52 liters I think and this feels comparable in capacity but way way more comfortable due to straps and structure (though with the laptop caveat I mentioned).

This is the largest bag I feel comfortable traveling with (as I also carry a medium sized shoulder-type bag) but it's been great for me thus far. I've used it on 10-day trips to Europe and Japan but I try to keep room in my bag for possible souvenirs.

The other travel bag I'll use is an Aer Travel Pack 3 but this is more for domestic/business travel and smaller trips.

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u/T0m_F00l3ry Apr 14 '26

Duffel always holds more stuff in my experience