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Finding the best day pack for travel can ensure you have a secure and hands-free vacation. Our readers chime in and share their top choices that are both stylish and practical!

 


Best Day Packs for Women


 

 

Table Of Contents

 

 

Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:

 

“I need your recommendations for a daypack that’s both durable and sleek and stylish. What do you take for your day adventures while traveling? 

I initially thought I wanted a leather crossbody but quickly decided against it because I want to be hands-free and will be doing lots of outdoor exploring (beach, hiking, etc.) I feel like an anti-theft backpack may be overkill, but I know I need to be safe if I’m packing my daily things on my back. Can anyone recommend one that looks nice and not too rugged?”

This is an important question that’s commonly asked by our readers. Whether you’re going on a gentle hike or walking around a city, a day pack is essential for easy traveling. These bags will keep your things nice and secure and you won’t need to worry about bulky purses while sightseeing.

There’s no reason to sacrifice style over functionality. If you’re itching to find a bag that won’t look frumpy and overly-touristy, our readers share their choices for the best travel day packs for travel to suit a multitude of needs!

 

 

Readers Top Picks for the Best Day Packs

 

 

best-day-packsShop: Amazon | Rebecca Minkoff | Nordstrom | Zappos | Saks Fifth Avenue

 

Best Versatile Stylish Day Pack: Rebecca Minkoff Julian

 

The Julian by Rebecca Minkoff is highly recommended by many readers, and it’s easy to see why! Made from textured leather and finished with gold hardware, it’s lightweight but can still easily hold all your essentials. The stylish lines will pair well with anything from basic shorts to a flirty, summer dress. 

These travel daypacks also come in nylon, which some prefer because it’s a lighter material and can fold up flat in luggage. And while the nylon version is sportier looking, it can transition well from outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing to fancier occasions like dining out. 

One reader says, “I’m not typically one to use something like this in a dressier situation but I would with this bag. You can sling it over one shoulder and be instantly fashionable!”

I’ve had my Rebecca Minkoff for several years and it remains one of my favorites. Read my review on this backpack, or watch the video to find out why I love this bag so much for travel!

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Nordstrom | Amazon | Bloomingdale’s | Saks Fifth AvenueLongchamp

 

Best Packable Day Pack: Longchamp Le Pliage

 

Longchamp is super popular among travelers and TGF readers and the Le Pliage day pack is a classic choice that’s lightweight and easy to pack. 

One of the best lightweight daypack choices, the Le Pliage is compact and durable, and is versatile enough to carry day or night. Throw in a small purse organizer to keep all your belongings nice and tidy and just where you need them. This bag will polish off any travel outfit with panache!

One reader shares, “I usually keep my Le Pliage folded up in my luggage and use a regular pack for the flight. Then when I get to my destination, I put my wallet and other essentials into my day pack and I’m good to go.”   

For a more compact option, check out the smaller Le Pliage backpack that has the same fantastic features. 

 

Read our Longchamp backpack review for more details about this product!

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Amazon | Kohl’s | Walmart

 

Best Day Pack for Security: Travelon Anti-Theft Signature

 

Travelon’s Signature packable day pack features the brand’s classic security features, including slash-resistant body panels and shoulder straps, locking compartments, and RFID-blocking card and passport slots. It’s on the smaller side but still has plenty of room for your essentials and compartments to keep everything organized and safe. 

A lot of readers say it’s the best daypack for travel in Europe, where incidents of theft can be high. But this bag will give you peace of mind no matter where you’re headed!  

A reader shares, “I took this backpack with me to Europe and loved it. I kept all my important things in it and nothing was stolen in Prague, Paris, or Munich!”

 

For security-conscious travelers, take a look at the best anti-theft travel bags!

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Away Travel

 

Best Day Pack With a Trolley Sleeve: Away Everywhere 

 

The Small Everywhere Backpack from Away is a perfect option to hold all of your must-haves while sightseeing. Its spacious interior features a 13” laptop sleeve, a water bottle pocket, and a key clip, all within a water-resistant, nylon shell. Even better, it’s super lightweight and has a breathable mesh back panel and padded straps for comfort – plus a handy trolley sleeve! 

This 14L backpack is also offered in a bigger, 20L version, too. 

One traveler feels this is the best urban daypack, saying, “I love everything about this backpack. It’s got tons of space and is lightweight and sleek without any clunky straps. It worked really well for me while traveling in Italy.” 

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Amazon

 

Best Dependable Day Pack: Fjällräven (Water-Resistant)

 

The traveling day pack from Fjällräven is another TFG favorite, featuring a durable, dirt-resistant and water-resistant exterior and a spacious and roomy interior. This bag comes in fun colors and is casual enough to bring to the beach or a sidewalk cafe for a cozy lunch.

One reader shares, “I love my Kanken! It’s surprisingly comfortable to wear, even when packed to the max. It’s water-resistant for drizzly days and it’s crazy durable too!”

Another reader adds, “These bags are popular with tourists and locals. So, if you carry one, you won’t stand out as a tourist.”

 

Here’s how to choose the best day bag for your next travel!

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Amazon

 

Best Convertible Day Pack: LXY (Faux Leather)

 

LXY faux leather day packs come very highly rated thanks to their gorgeous vegan leather exteriors and their other functional features. With hidden anti-theft pockets, this bag has room for a 14” laptop, and adjustable straps for added comfort. What’s more, it’s made of super durable faux leather for a timeless look that you’ll be able to travel with for years to come!

One user gives a rave review: “My daughter and I each bought this backpack to use on a recent trip to Europe. I brought mine on the airplane as my carry-on and then wore it as a purse while sightseeing. It’s super cute and stylish and the zippered compartments hold tons while keeping things, like passports and phones, safe. I’m so glad we ordered these!” 

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Amazon | Macy’s | Kohl’s

 

Best Day Pack for Storage Space: Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea

 

The Kenneth Cole travel day pack receives high praise from readers. Ultra stylish and roomy enough to hold a 15” laptop, this bag is sleek and lightweight too! What’s not to love?

One reader says, “I adore this backpack. It’s comfortable and I always use it for work and for commuting with my laptop. I’ve also traveled abroad with it and brought it to hold my shopping items when checking out the local markets.”

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Amazon

 

Best Adventure Day Pack: Osprey Arcane 

 

Readers know that Osprey makes incredible travel bags, and their Arcane small laptop backpack is one perfect choice. It’s compact but provides enough space and killer organization for your essentials, and the durable exterior will keep everything safe during transit. 

One fan adds, “This bag is so comfortable, I usually forget I’m even wearing it. I love this backpack!” 

That said, this pack isn’t for rugged outdoor adventures. So, if you’re looking for a more adventure-ready option, Osprey’s Tempest 30 is said to be the best hiking daypack. The smaller Tempest 20 is perfect for hikes too.

 

We’ve compiled a list of the best osprey backpacks so you can pick your favorite one!

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Amazon | Zappos

 

Best Lightweight Day Pack: Baggallini Soho Backpack 

 

The Baggallini Soho backpack can store everything you need, while staying slim and compact. It has lots of interior pockets and slots for your phone, cash, and cards, and other must-haves. And, while it’s super cute, it’s also sturdy and water-resistant, so you can lug this beauty through all kinds of weather without it (or your belongings) getting ruined! 

A reader shares, “I love this bag for travel! It fits right under the seat for domestic U.S. flights and holds quite a bit. I also use it regularly as a laptop bag for commuting and it’s comfortable to wear – even when fully loaded with my stuff.” 

 

Our readers love these crossbody phone purses for keeping their devices handy!

 

 

best-day-packs

Shop: Lo & Sons

 

Best Do-It-All Day Pack: Lo & Sons Rowledge (Weather-Resistant)

 

Comfortable and elegant, the Lo & Sons Rowledge backpack is brimming with functional features, including a water bottle pocket, a trolley sleeve, and a huge array of compartments to keep you organized. Perfect for most trips, it can hold a laptop, fit under any airline seat, and it’s weather-resistant too! 

One reader shares, “This bag is structured, but flexible enough to fit tons for my travels. I love the feet on the bottom, which keep it from getting dirty. The look is minimal and professional, while still feeling high-end and it fits well under an airplane seat without taking up leg room.”

 

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review!

 

 

Day Packs Comparison Chart

 

BRAND | MODEL FEATURES | REVIEWS RATING | PRICE
Readers Top Picks for the Best Day Packs
Best Versatile Stylish Day Pack: Rebecca Minkoff Julian “I’m not typically one to use something like this in a dressier situation but I would with this bag. You can sling it over one shoulder and be instantly fashionable!” Check Price
Best Packable Day Pack: Longchamp Le Pliage “I usually keep my Le Pliage folded up in my luggage and use a regular pack for the flight. Then when I get to my destination, I put my wallet and other essentials into my day pack and I’m good to go.” Check Price
Best Day Pack for Security: Travelon Anti-Theft Signature “I took this backpack with me to Europe and loved it. I kept all my important things in it and nothing was stolen in Prague, Paris, or Munich!” Check Price
Best Day Pack With a Trolley Sleeve: Away Everywhere “I love everything about this backpack. It’s got tons of space and is lightweight and sleek without any clunky straps. It worked really well for me while traveling in Italy.” Check Price
Best Dependable Day Pack: Fjällräven (Water-Resistant) “I love my Kanken! It’s surprisingly comfortable to wear, even when packed to the max. It’s water-resistant for drizzly days and it’s crazy durable too!” Check Price
Best Convertible Day Pack: LXY Faux Leather Backpack “My daughter and I each bought this backpack to use on a recent trip to Europe. I brought mine on the airplane as my carry-on and then wore it as a purse while sightseeing. It’s super cute and stylish and the zippered compartments hold tons while keeping things, like passports and phones, safe. I’m so glad we ordered these!” Check Price
Best Day Pack for Storage Space: Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea “I adore this backpack. It’s comfortable and I always use it for work and for commuting with my laptop. I’ve also traveled abroad with it and brought it to hold my shopping items when checking out the local markets.” Check Price
Best Adventure Day Pack: Osprey Arcane “This bag is so comfortable, I usually forget I’m even wearing it. I love this backpack!” Check Price
Best Lightweight Day Pack: Baggallini Soho Backpack “I love this bag for travel! It fits right under the seat for domestic U.S. flights and holds quite a bit. I also use it regularly as a laptop bag for commuting and it’s comfortable to wear – even when fully loaded with my stuff.” Check Price
Best Do-It-All Day Pack: Lo & Sons Rowledge (Weather-Resistant) “This bag is structured, but flexible enough to fit tons for my travels. I love the feet on the bottom, which keep it from getting dirty. The look is minimal and professional, while still feeling high-end and it fits well under an airplane seat without taking up leg room.” Check Price

 

 

What is a Day Pack?

 

Day packs are used by travelers for sightseeing, hiking and exploring. They can also serve as a “personal item” during transportation on planes, buses and trains. After arrival, these bags can be carried in place of a purse while scoping out new cities.

The best daypacks for travel should be able to store lots, with dedicated pockets and compartments for organization, and shoulder straps that fit securely against the body for safety.

While some travelers may prefer a beach tote, oversized purse, or a luggage-style tote for adventuring, many opt for day packs instead so they can sightsee hands-free!

 You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly

 

 

How to Use One Properly

 

Once you’ve chosen the best bag for your trip, you’ll want to know how to use it!

When I’m traveling on a bus, plane, or train, I use my daypack as my personal item and carry my most valuable items inside. This bag does not leave my side and sits on my lap if needed.

Generally speaking, if I’m in a place that’s known for muggings or high theft, I separate my valuables between my body, my pack, and my suitcase. Otherwise, for regular travel, my valuables are inside my daypack.

I also use daypacks if I decide to do side trips during my travels. Sometimes, I might leave behind my regular luggage locked away at a guesthouse or hotel and just take my daypack with only the necessities for a short island trip or trek. 

For 1 to 3 day hikes in temperate regions, I often bring an Osprey bag similar to this 20L backpack, which I used on both my trekking trips to Machu Picchu.

 

If you’re worried about theft, add items like a money belt or secret bra pocket to your packing list. 

 

 

How the TFG Editor Wears Her Favorite Day Pack

 

 

 

 

 


What is the best day pack for your type of travel? Share in the comments!


 

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