My Travel Essentials: Backpacks & Bags That Survived My 20s (and Now My 30s)
Since I’m finally travelling again — though in a slightly different format than my usual out of office, do not disturb adventures — I thought I’d share the items that have become my ride-or-dies for both long and short trips.
I spent my entire 20s living the backpacker life (strictly backpacks, no exceptions). Then I turned 30 and suddenly thought: You know what? A suitcase… doesn’t sound so bad. Growth? Maturity? Back pain? Who can say.
Anyway, the result is that I now own a slightly embarrassing number of bags, each for a very specific purpose (don’t judge me — you know you do this too).
Below are the ones that have proven themselves worthy.
Osprey 40L: The Weekend Warrior
Why I love it: It is designed to fit women' s back which makes it ridiculously comfortable to wear and carry around. It opens like a suitcase not like the old-school top loaders that swallow your belongings whole. It fits in the overhead compartments like a dream
It has survived every chaotic airport, bus station, and last-minute sprint I’ve put it through.
It’s simple, practical, non-fussy. Basically the backpack equivalent of a “no notes” experience.
Osprey 55L: When Life Requires Extra Storage
Same, same but different as the 40L, just more space to panic-pack things you probably don’t need (but will absolutely bring anyway).
It was perfect in Japan. Still opens on the side, still built for comfort, still reliable.
Technically it fits as a carry-on… until you add the rain cover and suddenly it’s giving “I swear it’s under 10kg” energy.
My Everyday Backpacks (Yes, Plural)
I rotate between three depending on the trip, the mood, and how aspirationally organised I’m feeling.
Deuter 18L: The Comfy One
Perfect for day trips.
Light, structured, and so comfortable you genuinely forget you’re wearing it. Fits water, snacks, an extra layer — what more do you need?
Fjallraven High Coast Totepack: The Foldable Friend
Found this one on Vinted and it quickly became my city break hero.
Roomy, comfy, and folds small enough to justify bringing “just one more bag”.
Kapten&sons Lisbon: Work/Travel Hybrid
I love it so much I got both the pro and small versions
If my laptop is coming, this is the bag.
The number of pockets is almost comedic — but extremely functional. Fits everything and still looks good doing it.
The Everyday Essentials Bag
Let’s be honest: Yes, it’s the uniqlo bag. Yes, I own four of them. Yes, I regret none of it.
It fits: water bottle, Kobo, phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm, mini tote… basically everything except your hopes and dreams.
Lojel M: Suitcase Crew
For the backpack-resistant among us, the Lojel M is a gem.
A friend recommended it and I’m forever grateful.
Opens from the top, not like a sandwich (genius), super lightweight even when empty and surprisingly spacious.
Not available in Europe, so I grabbed mine at the end of a Japan trip like a treasure hunter finding gold.
It’s now my go-to for any trip where I want comfort + organisation without the shoulder strain.
Packing Cubes
I don’t pack without them. Ever.
They keep everything organised and stop your bag from turning into a black hole of clothing chaos.
Choose the breathable ones — your future, tired-self will thank you after a long travel day.
Final Thoughts
When I pack for a trip, I’m always looking for quality, practicality, and clever features. None of these items came overnight — they were gathered slowly, tested across continents, climates, and questionable accommodation choices.
But now?
This gear makes packing easy, travelling smoother, and life on the road much more comfortable.
And yes… I’ll probably still buy another backpack at some point.