There are tons of travel backpacks out there, including plenty that cost less than $50. The tricky part is figuring out which of those budget-friendly options are actually worth buying. As you’d expect at this price point, some backpacks are surprisingly good — but others just won’t hold up if you travel often.
To help you find a solid option without spending a lot, I picked up five of our best-selling travel backpacks under $50 and tested them myself. I used them on weekend trips and during my daily commute in New York City to see how they held up in real-life situations. I looked at things like durability, comfort, and how easy they were to use.
Below, I’ll share my top picks — what I liked about each one, who I think they’re best for, and why they’re worth considering.
Coowoz Large Travel Backpack
Best all-around travel backpack under $50
The Coowoz Large Travel Backpack is a great choice if you want something that works for weekend getaways, school, or commuting. It has three main sections: one for your laptop, one big compartment for clothes, and another for smaller items. There are also two front pockets you can access quickly.
The main space is big enough to hold clothes for two or three days, and you can fit even more if you use packing cubes. There’s also a handy shoe compartment at the bottom. The laptop section fits a 13-inch tablet or a 14-inch laptop comfortably.
One of my favorite features is the small anti-theft pocket on the back. I keep my passport and work phone in there — it’s easy for me to reach but tough for anyone else to grab, especially on the subway.
Even though it’s labeled as “large,” the Coowoz backpack is actually a nice size for everyday use. It measures 16.5 x 12.6 x 7.9 inches, so it’s compact enough to carry around daily. It also has side compression straps to shrink it down when you’re not using all the space.
It holds up to 27 liters and is made from polyester. The material feels sturdy — not super high-end, but definitely good for the price.
At around $37 on Amazon (and often on sale for less), it’s a great deal. It’s a smart pick for anyone who wants a versatile and affordable backpack for both travel and everyday use.
coowoz Large Travel Backpack For Women Men
Also Read: What Features Make a Backpack Ideal for Hiking?
Shrradoo Anti-Theft Laptop Travel Backpack
Best under $50 for commuting
The Shrradoo Travel Laptop Backpack is another favorite of mine. It’s not quite big enough to replace your carry-on bag for longer trips, but it’s perfect for short ones — and especially great for daily commuting.
This backpack has three main compartments. There’s a padded laptop sleeve in the back that fits laptops up to 17 inches. The middle compartment is roomy enough for clothes or other travel items, and the front one holds small stuff like pens, a tablet, or chargers. There’s also a quick-access front pocket for things like your phone or wallet.
The laptop section also has locking zippers that connect to a built-in combo lock — a nice extra layer of security when you’re out and about.
Compared to the others, this backpack has more of a classic business look, so it works just as well at the office as it does at the airport. It’s made from thick nylon that feels durable, and the padded mesh back keeps it comfortable, even during long commutes.
And at just under $25, it’s a no-brainer if you want a good-looking, functional bag for both home and travel.
SHRRADOO Anti Theft Laptop Backpack Travel Backpack
Also Read: Is a Convertible Backpack a Good Option for Multiple Trip Types?
Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack
Best budget pick to replace your suitcase
If you’re looking for something big enough to replace a suitcase, this one’s for you. With a 45-liter capacity, this is the biggest backpack on the list. It can easily hold enough clothes for a week — especially if you pack light and use packing cubes. It also has built-in straps to compress your stuff and make more room.
Besides the huge main compartment, there’s a padded laptop sleeve in the back and a front pocket for smaller items. I also like the small easy-access pocket — perfect for your passport or phone.
One cool feature: it comes with a shoulder strap and arm pad so you can carry it like a duffel bag. If you go that route, the regular backpack straps tuck neatly into the back panel.
The material is thick and feels tougher than the others, so I trust it for frequent travel. And at just $45, it’s an awesome option for budget travelers who want to try one-bag travel for longer trips.
Amazon Basics Travel Backpack
Also Read: How do I Choose a Waterproof Backpack for Rainy Travel?
How I Tested These Bags
I tested all these backpacks by using them in real life — not just looking at them online.
- Travel test: I packed each bag for a weekend trip and took it on a round-trip flight. I paid attention to how it handled airport security, how much it held, and how comfortable it was to carry.
- Commute test: I also used each one for my daily 45-minute subway ride in NYC. This helped me figure out how they hold up to everyday wear and tear.
On top of that, I compared the size, price, and unique features of each bag to help you choose the right one for your needs. There’s a comparison chart in the next section that breaks it all down.
What to Look for in a Travel Backpack Under $50
Picking the right budget backpack really depends on what you need it for. If you’re trying to replace your carry-on, go for a bigger backpack that can hold a week’s worth of clothes. But if you want something that works for both travel and everyday use, a smaller, more versatile bag is a better bet.
Think about what you usually pack. If you bring shoes, look for a bag with a separate shoe compartment. If you travel with a laptop, make sure the backpack fits your laptop’s size.
Just keep your expectations realistic. A $50 travel backpack won’t be the absolute best on the market — but many of them will still get the job done for short trips, weekend getaways, and daily use. If you’re someone who travels constantly for work, you might want to invest in a more premium bag later on.
