Backpack for airport and trip away

[Mylittlebobble]

Would love some suggestions for a smartish backpack to fit under seat ahead on plane. Big enough for toiletries and passports etc, but not so big that I look stupid lugging it around sightseeing on a day trip. Backpack ideally. I like beige and neutral colours. Budget is up to around £70. Anyone got something that fits the bills?

Check out Mia Tui bags, packing cubes and bag organisers - lots of other threads on here where they have been recommended. I have several and they all last really well, plus they have videos on the website of how all the different styles fit into the size guides for each of the different airlines at the airports so you can see the size they are.

They are all waterproof and have nice bright interiors so it’s difficult to lose things plus they have loads of pockets to help you be organised even without using one or more of their packing cubes or organisers to help even more.

I’ve had Eagle Creek packing cubes that are now nearly 30 years old and still going strong so can highly recommend them however these days they are expensive so I’ve also got some of the Mia Tui ones for when the dc need them and they are a great sensible priced alternative that are very durable and well sized for fitting into the Mia Tui bags.

Try to find one with a zip pocket that lies against your back, rather than faces out. A friend of mine recently got surrounded and jostled in a crowd by a group of people, and when she got free they had emptied the front zip pocket of her rucksack. Have at least one pocket that is against your body, or carry purse etc in a separate bumbag.

As well as a backpack I always carry my purse, phone and passport in a small crossbody bag which I wear under my jacket. Save scrabbling about at security and check ins plus safer than backpack.

I travel a lot with my dc and brought a £10 insulated backpack from Argos. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever purchased. Really good for keeping water and snacks cold in hot countries. I also buy water and snacks for the plane because they’re always expensive on the plane. It’s very roomy and has 2 extra pockets for passports and smaller things. Fits perfectly under the seat in front too.

@JuniperBug Do you have a link to that one? It sounds excellent.

Surprised that none has mentioned Longchamp. I travel with https://www.longchamp.com/gb/en/le-pliage/005/le-pliage.html?at_medium=Sponsored%20links&at_campaign=PERFMAX_Leather_Bags&at_season=AO&at_campaign_group=Google_Ads&at_creation=&at_variant=&at_sl_term=&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAACPy18PsRTM1kGhl6tccnqbqCsutO&gclid=CjwKCAjw7pO_BhAlEiwA4pMQvO8XiZOjcidkFmx2IIMGNlYr1n0HBNdaWqH3pG3zVBRS164MAG8KUBoCuMgQAvD_BwE

fits under the seat in front and folds up to nothing to go in other bags if necessary.

Genius. I wouldn’t be without it.

So, I take a backpack but also a handbag. I don't want passports and valuables in a backpack on a holiday.

Most rucksacks aren't waterproof because that kind of fabric is too sweaty if hiking.

I have a black Roka backpack which I've used for work and travelling for years, I wouldn't hesitate to buy another if/when this one wears out. It's spacious, durable, looks good even after lots of trips. The zips are robust, really nicely made.

I have a Gandy but it’s really old now and I’m looking to replace it . Does anyone have any
recommendations for a pack that zips open like a case rather than stuffing everything in the top .

Well seeing as the OP is looking for a backpack that's under £70 and 'not so big that I look stupid lugging it around sightseeing on a day trip', it's not that surprising that no-one has mentioned a massive shoulder bag that costs £120.

Nordace have some great ones https://nordace.com/en/product-category/backpacks/ though most are a bit more than £70.

I have the large Finchley Roka too. Love it. Nice ethical company, great customer service and very well-made bags with all the right pockets and pouches.

I've got this one, it looks smart and fits lots in. I bought a waterproof cover for it from Amazon (about £6)

Edit- sorry OP, just noticed you said up to £70. I got mine online from Radley Outlet, I think it was £80

https://www.radley.co.uk/handbags/womens-backpacks/dukes-place-medium-zip-around-backpack-rhd19313-ss25#110420

Thank you for this thread (will have a proper look later)

I'm also doing a two day away thing and I have warned family backpacks only

OP, this is yellow so probably not for you, but in case anyone's looking for a nice backpack I can highly recommend this (which I found on another MN backpack thread). It has a brilliant selection of pockets, looks much more expensive than it is, and gets unsolicited compliments:

Hiking backpack 10L - NH Escape 150 Square QUECHUA | Decathlon

These are a bit more than the stated budget, but the small backpacks are great.

Mine has held up really well over about 4 years and always gets used for travel.

https://www.allycapellino.co.uk/collections/backpacks

My new backpack arrived today! I'm pleased with it but glad I didn't pay full price. Its got a zipped section inside and the two top handles clip together so seems fairly secure. Thanks all for the suggestions. I'm impressed by the quick delivery too.

After the maiden voyage with my new backpack this weekend, I can confirm it was comfortable and a good size. The zip clips made me feel more secure in busy places too. Very happy with it, if anyone else was tempted.

Of course I'm tempted, you devil, you. 😈