The year-end period is when many Malaysians will jet off to various destinations on the world map to fulfil their wanderlust. Some will be embarking on their long-planned holidays, while others will seek last-minute travel deals. Whichever camp you belong to, you’ll need a good and trusty travel backpack on top of your luggage bag to carry all your essentials as you zip from one place to another throughout the day. We have put together a list of the best travel backpack recommendations in Malaysia if you are looking for a good sack for your upcoming adventures.
How To Choose A Good Travel Backpack?
Choosing the right travel backpack means balancing durability, comfort, and size. Here are key factors to look for:
- Durable, water-resistant material: Pick a lightweight yet strong fabric (nylon or polyester) that can withstand abrasion and light rain. A good travel bag should use fabric that’s durable and strong but not so heavy that it slows you down. Built-in rain covers are also handy for sudden downpours.
- Strong zippers and closures: A broken zipper can ruin a trip. Look for quality zippers (YKK is a good sign) and closures.
- Ample compartments: Multiple pockets and dividers keep you organised. Think front pockets for quick-access items, side pockets for bottles, and internal sections for clothes and electronics.
- Comfort features: Padded, adjustable shoulder straps (and a hip belt for larger packs) help distribute weight. A padded back panel and ventilated design can also prevent strain on long hikes.
- Size vs. carry-on limits: Consider airline carry-on rules. You may prefer a pack with compression straps to cinch down or expand as needed.
In short, pick a backpack that feels sturdy and fits well on your body, with just enough organisation for your travel style.
What Backpack Size Is Suitable For My Needs?
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but travel experts offer these guidelines:
- Under 50L for carry-on: Most airlines allow a backpack up to ~50L (about 22″×14″×9″) as a carry-on. If you want a single bag for a short trip, a 40–45L pack is often ideal.
- Short trips (1–3 days): 30–40L usually suffices for a couple of outfits and basics. An expandable or daypack (15–25L) can double as a personal item for daily use on vacation.
- Longer trips (1+ weeks): Plan on 50–65L for a longer journey, especially if staying in hostels or guesthouses. Journal of Nomads suggests a 50–65L bag is perfect for long-term travel with typical gear.
- Camping or extended travel: If you pack bulky gear (tent, sleeping bag), opt for 65–75L or more.
- Minimalist or carry-on only: If you pack very light (just essentials and a laptop), a 35–45L carry-on backpack can be sufficient and avoids checked baggage fees.
Always remember: pack as light as possible. Every gram counts on your back. When in doubt, choose a slightly smaller size than you think. You can always leave excess behind or wash clothes on the road.
10 Best Travel Backpack Recommendations In Malaysia To Buy
These backpacks offer the best travel functionality and conveniences.
1. Mark Ryden Large Capacity Backpack
If you are the type who lugs around a lot of stuff when you go travelling, you’ll need something like this Mark Ryden backpack. It has multiple pockets at the front, sides, and back (including an RFID-blocking slot for cards) that give you quick access to your frequently used stuff. Inside, there’s a dedicated compartment to slip in a laptop up to 15.6-inch.
If you need even more space, you can expand the backpack by opening the expansion buckles. There’s also a USB charging port at the exterior to conveniently charge your electronic devices on the go (provided you connect it to a power bank stored inside the backpack).
2. American Tourister MAGNA PACE Backpack 04 R
The American Tourister MAGNA PACE Backpack is a practical pick for travellers who want something light, durable, and easy to carry through busy airports or packed city streets. Its clean, modern design pairs well with everyday use, while the interior compartments offer enough structure for essentials like laptops, documents, power banks, and travel accessories.
With its comfortable padding and reliable build, it’s the kind of backpack that balances affordability with long-term usability. Ideal for commuters, casual travellers, and anyone who wants a stylish pack without overthinking features.
3. MAH Young Tour Waterproof Travel Backpack
This MAH backpack is a functional yet stylish backpack that has plenty of design features made for travellers in mind. The main compartment has a drawcord design that might be preferable for some instead of a zip mechanism, and it opens up to a large interior with meticulous sorting with pockets and sleeves for various purposes (with more pockets on the outside).
The waterproof fabric ensures your belongings are safe if you get caught up in the rain, while the three-layer shoulder straps include a high-density sponge layer for added comfort.
4. Peak Design Travel Backpack
If you don’t mind splurging to get one of the best travel backpacks in the Malaysia market, get one from the reputable brand Peak Design. Filled with thoughtful features that prioritise all-day comfort, manoeuvrability, and security, the travel backpack also boasts a smart storage system with adequate space for all the things you’re packing to your destination.
Available in 30L and 45L capacities. Also, you get a lifetime guarantee.
5. Thule Landmark Travel Backpack
Built for travellers who want rugged dependability with thoughtful organisation. The Thule Landmark travel backpack is designed like a hybrid between a hiking pack and a travel bag which offers a structured interior, secure compartments, and a dedicated SafeZone space for fragile items.
The load-bearing harness system makes long walks more comfortable, while the suitcase-style opening helps you pack and unpack effortlessly. It’s a trusted companion for adventurers who move frequently between cities, hostels, and outdoor spots. Strong, secure, and engineered with the reliability Thule is known for.
6. Bobby Explore Backpack
The Bobby Explore Backpack is one of the best travel options if you place the safety and security of your belongings above everything else. Its key features are several anti-theft measures that include hidden zippers, magnetic semi-lock zipper pulls, and an RFID safety pocket.
Other than that, it is also a functionally good backpack for travelling with organisational panels, an extensible front pocket as well as an extensible bottom pocket (for shoes or wet clothes) and a quick access top pocket for items like sunglasses.
7. Osprey Farpoint 40L Travel Pack
A classic among globetrotters, the Osprey Farpoint 40L travel pack is designed for carry-on travel. Its lightweight frame and padded back/hip belt give a comfortable, supportive fit. The main compartment opens like a suitcase, and there’s a quick-access laptop/tablet sleeve for devices up to 16″.
Importantly, this pack is “sized to meet most domestic carry-on requirements”. It even has an external zippered toiletry pocket to speed you through airport security. If you want a dependable travel pack that Osprey has engineered for years, the Farpoint 40L is it.
8. Karrimor Global 40L Travel Backpack
For outdoor or expedition-style travel, the Karrimor 40L pack is a solid choice. It has an ergonomic padded support system and multiple compartments for gear. It features “a zip fastening main compartment coupled with additional storage pockets,” plus a padded sleeve for a laptop. (Yes, even the hiking-style pack has a laptop pocket!)
At 40 litres, it’s the right size for extended trips, and its polyester build is tough enough for rugged use.
9. BAGSMART Blast 28L Airline Approved Carry-On Travel Backpack
The BAGSMART Blast 28L is perfect for travellers who prefer compact, airline-friendly carry-ons that maximise space without exceeding cabin limits. Its design focuses on efficient organisation, offering dedicated sections for gadgets, clothes, and travel documents—all laid out in a way that makes packing intuitive.
Despite its smaller size, it feels sturdy and comfortable thanks to ergonomic straps and breathable materials. Whether you’re hopping on a weekend getaway or navigating budget airlines, this backpack delivers smart functionality in a sleek, modern package.
10. Tigernu Large Travel Backpack
Tigernu’s Large Travel Backpack is a great all-rounder for travellers who want maximum features without paying a premium price. Known for its sturdy zippers and water-resistant material, it handles daily wear and unexpected weather comfortably. The multiple compartments, including a well-padded laptop section, make packing straightforward and structured.
It also offers thoughtful additions like anti-theft pockets, USB charging access, and ergonomic padding that stays comfortable even when the bag is fully loaded. For students, commuters, or holiday travellers, it delivers excellent utility at a great value.
Have No Baggage Worries With These Best Travel Backpack Options In Malaysia
Sure, you can use your daily backpack for travelling purposes, but some are ill-equipped or may not handle carrying all your essentials that well. Being exposed to the elements and rough treatments might also ruin your backpack, and you certainly do not want that to happen. With a dedicated travel backpack, you will be best equipped to travel with peace of mind, knowing that all your items are well-organised and well-protected, not to mention you can afford to travel with more comfort.
Besides travel backpack, check out these best luggage brands in Malaysia too for even more options!
