Best Backpacks For European Travel From CabinZero

Picture this: You have spent months planning your dream European adventure. You've researched the best destinations, created an itinerary, and even booked your accommodations. But now comes the tricky part: choosing the right backpack for convenience and style for your travels. How can you handle it?

It’s time to consider our CabinZero top picks! We can provide you with our best backpacks for European travel, including what makes them stand out. Now, let’s find the perfect one that helps make your trip unforgettable!

What Size Backpack Is Best For Travelling To Europe?

No one bag fits all trips. The ideal European bag is decided based on your desired amount of time away, the activities you will engage in, and other personal preferences.

If you don't need to bring a lot of clothing or other items, a backpack with a 30-40 litre capacity should be sufficient. You will find it comfortable for shorter trips or if you're staying at hostels with laundry facilities.

For several goods like a camera, hiking gear, or winter clothes, a 50-70 litre backpack is recommended. It should be good for two weeks or more. Keep in mind that bigger luggage is heavier, so check your airline or train's weight limitations.

Seasoned travellers would agree that 40 litres are the sweet middle ground. It is roomy enough to bring all your essentials and sizeable enough to be considered a carry-on.

30-40 litre is usually the best size for most folks travelling to Europe.

What To Pack For An Epic Trip To Europe?

Heading for a grand adventure? Before you jet off, make sure you have everything you need to make the most of your trip.

With so many European cities to explore, climates to consider, and cultural differences to respect, it's hard to know where to start. Don't worry, though – by planning ahead with a well-curated list, you'll be all set for your travels. Let’s go over what to pack for a European trip!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Documents

Remember to check your passport's validity (at least six months left) and blank pages to receive entrance and departure stamps. Moreover, as a European, you only need to bring a visa if you are a citizen of a non-Schengen country.

One more item that you should remember is travel insurance. Having it in your carry-on backpack for Europe, you are provided assurance and financial protection in case of unforeseen events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or stolen belongings.

Some other essentials are a driver's licence, ID, credit card, and travel itinerary. These documents are often required for identification and verification purposes during your trip.

Packing hack: Having copies of your travel documents in separate locations in case of their originals are lost, stolen, or damaged.

Opt For Versatile Clothing

Packing lightly with layers is the ideal strategy for a European backpack. This is crucial if your travels will take you to numerous nations with wildly varying weather. We have narrowed it down to just some essentials:

  • T-shirts: Choose some comfortable and breathable t-shirts to wear or layer under sweaters or jackets.
  • Sweaters: Pack a couple of lightweight sweaters for chilly evenings or to layer over t-shirts.
  • Jacket: A light rain jacket or windbreaker is a must for those unpredictable European weather changes.
  • Pants: Jeans or leggings are perfect. You may also want to bring a pair of shorts or a skirt for warmer days.
  • Shoes: Sneakers or hiking shoes are great options for both city and nature walks. Otherwise, a pair of sandals or flats can be worn for dressier occasions.

Enhance Your Adventure With Travel Accessories

Pack some magazines to prevent being bored on a long flight. Photo from Freepik

Now, we continue with some essential travel accessories for travel backpack Europe! Bring a travel pillow and eye mask to help you relax and sleep. Remember earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to tune out unwanted noise. Plus, compression socks will keep your feet and legs from swelling, and healthy snacks and a water bottle will keep you hydrated and energised.

A great way to stay hydrated with your favourite drink on flights but save your luggage’s space is to use a collapsible water bottle. Some entertainment like books, magazines, or a tablet loaded with movies, TV shows, or games is also recommended.

Packing hack: Master the way of using a packing cube. Since then, you can separate types of accessories and use different cubes for different categories of items. 

Be Strategic When Packing Toiletries

When it comes to backpacking European backpacks, less is more. Stick to the essentials and pack travel-sized products when possible to save space in your backpack. Plus, you should prepare a toiletry bag at home to organise your items. Moreover, do not forget to check the airline carry-on restrictions for liquids and gels to ensure you comply with the regulations. 

You also need to consider the climate of your destination when packing. For example, if you are travelling to a hot and humid destination, you will likely need more deodorant and sunscreen. 

In order to avoid travelling but forgetting some stuff, check out the following items for your flight:

  • Hand sanitiser
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Body wash or soap
  • Razor and shaving cream
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic cream, pain relievers)
  • Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)

Technology Is Essential

Don't leave home without your camera so you can capture the breathtaking scenery in Europe. Photo from Freepik

Backpacking in Europe backpack will be easier with the aid of technology to stay connected and entertained during the whole trip. Therefore, make sure your luggage or your travel bag includes:

  • Smartphone - great for using the Internet, GPS navigation, and communicating with friends and family back home. 
  • Laptop or Tablet - just in case you plan on working or need to stay connected for personal reasons.
  • Camera - to capture those memories and take great photos of stunning European landscapes, iconic landmarks, and charming cities.
  • USB Ports - to charge multiple devices at once and adapt to different outlets while travelling in Europe.
  • Power Bank - particularly useful when you're out sightseeing all day and need to recharge your devices.
  • Travel Adapter - allows you to plug your electronic devices into the different electrical outlets found in Europe.

There you get it! Pack light and smart for your European travel doesn’t have to be stressful as you think, right? To increase your confidence, consider checking out our essential travel packing list so that you can recheck it after packing!

Best Backpacks For European Travel from CabinZero

The need for a practical, reliable cabin bag is essential and universal. As travellers ourselves, we know how a lightweight cabin bag plays a key role. Only when your luggage becomes hassle-free can you explore the world in all its glory.

Don’t let yourself be held back by your own stuff. Instead, take chances and travel across the seven continents with our CabinZero collections. Make your pick and start your journey now!

1. CabinZero Classic 28L

The CabinZero Classic 28L is recommended as one of the best carry-on backpacks for Europe travel. It has a capacity of 28 litres, which is perfect for a week's worth of clothes. It can easily fit all your essentials while still meeting all airline's carry-on requirements.

Moreover, it is depicted as the most stylish European backpack that comes in a variety of colours and designs to suit your style. The classic 28L is available in 29 colourways and counting. You can easily find one that suits your style on the road.

In terms of organisation, it features a spacious main compartment to fit your clothes, shoes, and other travel essentials effortlessly. There is even a front pocket and two internal zipped pockets for easy access.

When you want a light cabin bag that just works, you grab your CabinZero Classic 28L and go. The whole world is yours to explore!

Outstanding features:

  • Compact, lightweight, and fit all airline carry-on requirements.
  • Features YKK zippers, the highest quality zips on the market.
  • Suitable for a 3-5 day trip.

2. CabinZero Classic Plus Backpack 32L

For travellers to Europe who want to take it to the next level, the CabinZero Classic Plus Backpack 32L is the best. Everything is now handier with an added water bottle pocket and a padded back panel.

The spacious main compartment can effortlessly fit a week’s worth of clothes, allowing you to always have the best outfits at the destination. One of the most overlooked features of the Classic Plus is the internal frame sheet. You won’t know it’s there, but your back will thank you for this extra comfort.

Both the 32L and 42L variants are carry-on compliance. If you want to backpacking or travel for a longer duration, we recommend choosing the later. It’s the maximum carry-on size for about half of the airlines out there.

Outstanding features:

  • Spacious 32-litre main compartment with multiple pockets and compartments.
  • Internal frame sheet and padded back panel for extra comfort
  • A water bottle pocket to stay hydrated on the road.

3. CabinZero Classic Pro Backpack 42L

The CabinZero Classic Pro Backpack 42L is a good laptop backpack for travelling Europe if you want the best of the Classic line. First, it has a padded hip belt to distribute weight evenly across your hips, reducing strain on your back and shoulders. More than that, the stiff board adds structure to the backpack, making it more comfortable to wear for extended periods.

It also provides a padded laptop sleeve in the front compartment that keeps your device safe and secure. Its competitive price is also a plus compared to other carry-on backpacks on the market.

Outstanding features

  • Most features-loaded and premium Classic variant
  • Has everything in Classic Plus in addition to a waist belt
  • Spacious with two main compartments and two laptop sleeves
  • Comfortable to wear for extended periods.

4. CabinZero Military Backpack 44L

The CabinZero Military Backpack 44L is the best backpack for travelling Europe, especially for those planning urban exploration, trekking, or long-distance walking. Its rugged design is perfect for outdoor activities, while its 44-litre capacity provides sizeable storage space for all your essentials.

Outdoor lovers will love its practical design. The backpack also features front molle webbing to carry extra gear and accessories on the outside, making it a versatile choice for any adventure.

Outstanding features:

  • Rugged design that can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough terrains
  • Front molle webbing to carry extra gears and accessories on the outside.
  • Side compression straps and top tension straps for added security.
  • Multiple handles for easy transport
  • Laptop sleeve and spacious inner zip mesh pocket.

5. CabinZero ADV Dry 30L

The CabinZero ADV Dry Backpack 30L is a great option when selecting a Europe travel backpack as a secondary bag for beaches, rainy or snowy days, and water sports.

Its water-resistance design is also ideal for outdoor activities in wet conditions. The backpack can even double as a laundry bag, making it a useful addition to any traveller's gear.

For longer comfort, it has stowaway backpack straps and a shoulder strap ventilation system. The RFID blocking pocket, key clip, and front panel bungee lead secure extra stuff on the front. The backpack is also made from 70 Denier Nylon Ripstop fabric with TPU film, making it durable and long-lasting.

Outstanding Features:

  • Versatile design that doubles as a laundry bag or secondary bag.
  • Removable pocket for extra storage
  • Bungee cord on the front panel for securing additional items.

6. CabinZero ADV Pro 32L

The CabinZero ADV Pro 32L is the most premium product line from CabinZero, offering one of the best backpacks for travelling to Europe. Made from Rip-Stop fabric, which is resistant to wear and tear, this backpack is ideal for hard-core adventurers. It is also preferred thanks to its stylish and contemporary look that will catch people's eyes.

In terms of features, it's loaded with convenient functions to fulfil the most discerning travellers. The telescopic handle sleeve makes it easy to transport. The best part? You can convert the backpack into a duffle bag thanks to the stowaway straps on the back panel.

Are you a digital nomad or want to get some work done on the road? The front compartment with a padded laptop sleeve will let you carry your laptop with a piece of mind.

The main compartment features a bungee cord to keep things organised more easily. Not only that, but you will also experience ultimate comfort with a padded waist belt and durable aluminium frame sheet that expertly distribute weight.

Outstanding features:

  • Made from durable Rip-Stop fabric
  • Sleek and modern design that's perfect for European travel
  •  EVA padded back panel for premium comfort.

7. CabinZero Classic Flight 12L

The CabinZero Classic Flight 12L is the best small backpack for travelling in Europe. It is suitable for children and women, with its compact design that is ideal for a variety of activities.

Carrying your belongings can’t be easier with the top handle and a quick access zip pocket on the front panel. Moreover, it can be considered a personal items bag, which is accessible during the flight. You even use it as a makeshift packing cube for a larger pack.

Its features are equally impressive, with the RFID blocking pocket and tracking tag providing added security. There is also a key clip that keeps your keys secure. Having a spot reserved will guarantee that your kids won’t lose them.

Outstanding features

  • iPad sleeve and expandable water bottle pocket
  • Compact profile
  • Shoulder straps airflow system for comfort.

FAQs

1. Is It Safe To Travel With A Backpack In Europe?

The good news is that it is generally safe to travel with a backpack in Europe as long as you take the necessary precautions. It's important to be aware of common scams, pickpocketing techniques, and other potential dangers in different cities and countries.

In order to ensure your safety in your European backpacks, you should consider:  

  • Look for a backpack with anti-theft features (such as lockable zippers, slash-resistant material, or RFID-blocking pockets)
  • Keep your backpack with you at all times
  • Use a lock to secure your belongings
  • Avoid carrying valuables.

If you want a piece of mind, we recommend visiting the safest countries out there

2. Is 40L Enough For Backpacking Europe?

If you are only going away to Europe for a week or two, a 40-litre backpack should be enough as long as you don't overpack. Long-term trips, particularly trips taken during the colder months, may require a larger backpack or at least some additional bags.

3. Can I Bring A Backpack As Carry-on Luggage On European Airlines?

Most European flights do accept backpacks as carry-on baggage. However, you should double-check with the specific airline about size and weight restrictions before travelling. You also need to consider the weather and activities as well as any size or weight limits while packing your travel gadgets.

Head To Your Dream European Travel With A Perfect Backpack

The right backpack can ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Photo from Freepik.

Make the most of your time by investing in the best backpacks for European travel. Then, we're confident that these backpacks will meet your travel needs. With their durability, versatility, and ample storage space, they're sure to make your European adventure unforgettable.

Now that you have found the best backpack to travel Europe, you can confidently pack your luggage for your adventure the next time!

Ha Ngan


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