best rolling backpacks for travelers

The 20 Best Rolling Backpacks for Avid Travellers

by Christian Petzold - updated September 19, 2023

Do you know why most avid travellers prefer to use Rolling backpacks? Simply because they can be worn like traditional backpacks and they can be towed along like a piece of real wheeled luggage. It gives you the flexible option of rolling the pack instead of wearing it.

Most of them have an extendable handle and smooth-rolling wheels that make it easy to move around with your luggage without doing any heavy lifting. But they also allow you the versatility of using them as a normal backpack on rugged terrains.

By using one on your trips you avoid having to buy two pieces of luggage and having to guess which one will be best for the next trip.

Here are the 20 Best Rolling Backpacks that we love.

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Things to Consider

Considering Weight in the Best Rolling Backpacks

When selecting from the best rolling backpacks for travel, one can’t ignore the weight factor. With features like wheels and a retractable handle, these backpacks come in with a heavier base weight. This becomes especially evident if you’re traveling for outdoor activities or hiking.


“A rolling backpack is a smart investment for anyone who needs to carry a lot of weight on their back.”

Forbes

Over extended periods, this additional weight can become burdensome. Many users notice the absence of hip straps, which could have made weight distribution more comfortable, especially for a 40L capacity backpack with both wheels and a retractable handle.

Electronics Safety in the Best Rolling Backpacks: The Importance of Padded Laptop Sleeves

In an age where we can’t imagine traveling without our gadgets, ensuring their safety becomes paramount. Many top-ranking best rolling backpacks, such as one that comes with a padded laptop sleeve, are designed with the tech-savvy traveler in mind. This specific sleeve fits most 15-inch laptops, making it an excellent choice for those keen on keeping their electronics secure during travels.

It’s not just about protection but also the design. While the protective base and padded wheel cover are standout features, potential users should be aware of certain cons like the absence of a tucking sleeve, which may lead to dirtied shoulder straps.

The Amazon Factor in Choosing the Best Rolling Backpacks: User Reviews and Feedback

When sourcing information about the best rolling backpacks for travel, Amazon is often a valuable resource. A backpack with a 4.2-star average from over 12,800 reviews gives a good idea about its overall quality and user satisfaction. Always remember to check customer feedback, especially for insights into real-world usability and durability.

Functionality Beyond Travel in the Best Rolling Backpacks

A quality rolling backpack from the best rolling backpacks list is versatile, serving various purposes. It’s not only a backpack for travel but can double up as a business bag, suitable for both casual and business trips.


“Rolling backpacks make it easy to carry heavy loads without sacrificing style.” 

Vogue

Key Features in the Best Rolling Backpacks: Telescopic Handles and Material Quality

Telescopic handles have become synonymous with the best rolling backpacks. Their ability to adjust to various heights adds to the user’s comfort. When not in use, both the telescopic handle and back straps conveniently stow away, maintaining the backpack’s sleek appearance.

Quality doesn’t stop at functionality; the use of super durable material ensures the backpack stands the test of time and rugged commutes.

Keeping in Mind Airline Restrictions for the Best Rolling Backpacks

It’s crucial to remember that while many of the best rolling backpacks claim to be fit for carry-on, airline specifications can differ. For instance, American Airlines has set restrictions of 22” x 14” x 9”, but other airlines might vary, some as low as 18” or as high as 24”. Therefore, travelers must always cross-check with the airline’s carry-on luggage policy before flying.

Comfort on the Go with the Best Rolling Backpacks: The Role of Padded Straps

When discussing the best rolling backpacks, comfort is paramount. A well-designed backpack ensures no wheels poke the user. Adjustable padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and adequate separation between the pack’s wheels and the user’s clothes are all vital for a comfortable experience.


“Rolling backpacks are a practical and stylish choice for anyone who needs to carry a lot of weight on the go.” 

Elle

Carry-On Vs. Best Rolling Backpacks: Size Matters

Though many of the best rolling backpacks might seem suitable for carry-on luggage, there are distinct differences. For instance, the Manfrotto Reloader, a contender in the best rolling backpacks list, is considerably larger than what it appears, tailored for holding camera equipment with additional padding. Unlike traditional carry-on luggage crafted keeping airline restrictions in mind, wheeled backpacks come in a broader range of shapes and sizes. It implies that many might be too large to bring onto a plane as carry-on luggage.

When hunting for the best rolling backpacks, it’s essential to keep factors like weight, functionality, airline restrictions, and user comfort in mind. Consideration of these elements ensures a traveler’s journey is both comfortable and hassle-free.

Best Rolling Backpacks for Travellers

Here are the 20 Best Rolling Backpacks that we love.

This article contains affiliate links. Using them doesn’t cost you anything but instead, you support this website. Disclaimer:+

1. Matein Waterproof Travel Rolling Backpack

This backpack is designed for extended travel or for daily use because it comes with a large main compartment that separates space for storing books, clothes, and documents and a Fully-padded laptop pocket that holds laptops up to 15.6 inches.

Its multi-pocket Organizers are perfect for keeping all of your smaller items secure and its quick Access Compartment allows you to easily find what you are looking for.

It also comes with breathable and adjustable shoulder straps to relieve the stress of the shoulder. Durable Waterproof material and Multi Pocket construction design, provide everyone with a better travel rolling backpack.

2. J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack

J World New York Sunrise model comes with an aluminum handle that is recessed and locking, polyurethane-coated fabric, and pockets galore for organization.

It comes with ergonomic S-shaped adjustable shoulder straps and an air mesh cushioned back panel that provides comfort when wearing the backpack for extended periods of time.

The main compartment is roomy for easy access and has a zipper-finished inner lining for your convenience.

The organizer comes with pencil holders, card holders, a key fob, and a zippered pocket, a convenient feature to keep personal belongings organized and keep track of them.

There are even pieces of reflective Tape to keep you safe while walking at night.

3. J World New York Sundance Laptop Rolling Backpack

This is another one by J World New York, this time the Sundance Laptop Rolling Backpack.

It’s carefully designed to perfectly fit under the airplane seat or overhead compartment. Making it the perfect carry-on.

It provides comfort with Air Mesh Cushion Padded Shoulder Straps with a Slip-in system for convenience.

It is also made of Polyester, making it a Water-Resistant bag with a Rust-Free 3-stage aluminum locking handle and Padded handle.

4. Everest Deluxe Wheeled Backpack

This one takes a bit of a heavier load than the ones mentioned above. The Everest Deluxe Wheeled Backpack is perfect for any adventure that only requires a few days of travel.

The bag has padded shoulder straps and an adjustable sternum strap for extra carrying comfort.

It comes with a myriad of pockets and organizational options to keep all your items tidy.

5. Yorepek Rolling Backpack

Yorepek Rolling Backpack is made from durable water-resistant polyester fabric, resists abrasion, is anti-dirt and sleek.

Its metal swivel hooks on the back can be adjusted at any time and the soft-touch padded grab handle offers a comfortable grip. There is also a 2-way zipper design.

It has quiet rolling wheels that allow controlled motion.

Additionally, its added shoulder straps can be tucked away when not in use.

6. JanSport Driver 8

This one can convert from a backpack to a roller with tucked-away shoulder straps.

This wheeled laptop backpack features a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, a side water bottle pocket, and a front organizer pocket.

The Driver 8 durable construction is made to last; the bag comes in a variety of colors to reflect your style & needs.

7. Rockland Single Handle Rolling Backpack

The backpack comes with skate wheels and a retractable T-handle and also features a 2 zippered compartment, pockets on the front of the bag, and a small built-in organizer.

There is also a padded compartment for a laptop and two mesh side pockets.

This bag is made of durable polyester with a metal telescoping handle and a heavy-duty plastic base on the bottom to keep the bag standing and protect the fabric from dirt and wear.

8. Ambor Wheeled Laptop Backpack

This one is designed with two inline-style wheels and a telescoping handle that allows you to cruise smoothly from place to place.

The multi-compartment design keeps your items organized and a padded computer sleeve holds most laptops up to 15.6 inches.

This is another design that allows you to tuck away the backpack straps.

9. Targus Compact Rolling Business and Travel Commuter

The Targus 16” Compact Rolling Backpack is fully equipped with quiet roller wheels and a retractable handle.

Integrated into the main compartment is a soft-lined interior pocket specifically for your electronics.

It also has a large compartment for storing books, documents, and folders, making it perfect for business travel.

Aside from being able to tuck away the straps, this one offers the option to cover the wheels.

10. Samsonite Wheeled Backpack

The Samsonite brand is known for its durability. This backpack combines convenience and functionality without compromising on style.

This is basically a carry-on laptop backpack, that allows for a hands-free solution for working on the move. Perfect for digital nomads who need to transport all of their offices in one compact space and safely.

11. Kipling Luggage Sanaa Wheeled Backpack

The Sanaa rolling model is a must-have for students, travelers, and adventurers of all ages!

This large-wheeled backpack is designed to carry everything you need for a weekend getaway.

Plus, a roomy front flap pocket, a front zipper pocket, and a handy mesh side pocket make it easy to access your essentials on the go.

12. Aoking Rolling Travel Backpack

The Aoking Rolling Travel Backpack has 4 different ways to carry it: Backpack for casual hands-free carrying, Smooth-Rolling for effortless travel, Haul Handle for low-profile short trips, and Top of Carry On Bag for quick trips through the airport.

Its reflector stripes make you visible and allow you to travel safely at night.

It has a detachable keyring that won’t let you misplace your keys.

The backpack harness and back panel are constructed with comfortable foam and air mesh available.

13. High Sierra Freewheel Backpack Rolling

High Sierra is known for making high-quality, comfortable, and durable outdoor gear, and this backpack is no exception.

It is made with 600D Duralite, ripstop fabric, and Waffle Weave that features a special water-resistant (not waterproof) coating to help keep gear dry and provide exceptional tear strength in a lightweight material.

Additionally, it has several compartments that allow for easy organization such as zippered mesh pockets, pen pockets, lidded media pockets, and a key fob hook perfect for keeping all of your smaller items secure.

14. OIWAS Backpack With Wheels

OIWAS Backpack has a Laptop compartment that accommodates up to a 15.6″ laptop.

The Vapel mesh padded shoulder straps are adjustable and can tuck away inside the padded back panel when not in use.

It also features smooth rolling, corner-mounted wheels with corner guards and rubs rails to protect the bag from abrasion.

I personally love this sleek and simple design.

15. Olympia Melody Rolling Backpack

Travel in style with this Olympia Melody 19′ Rolling Backpack.

As with most of the others, this backpack is constructed of durable ripstop polyester. What makes it unique is that it features corner-cut jumbo recessed wheels for smooth gliding and a push-button telescopic mono handle for maneuverability.

It also has a color-matched bottom mold for protection and hideaway padded shoulder straps.

16. Kenneth Cole Reaction Wheel Backpack

Time to hit the road with this ‘roll on back” Kenneth Cole Reaction 17” polyester triple compartment 4-wheel laptop backpack.

With its 4-wheel spinners, it allows for easy mobility, 360-degree movement, and a padded, easy-to-grab top handle, you can bring your business essentials with you, without any problems or inconveniences.

The 1680D polyester and coated polyester exterior body material with a fully lined interior are lightweight and hold most laptops with up to a 17. 0” screen safely.

A rear compartment includes another pocket and garment straps to secure clothing, and additional side exterior pockets have room for two beverage/ accessory holsters.

17. Ytonet Laptop Rolling Backpack

Made of water-resistant polyester with a durable adjustable aluminum telescoping handle that allows you to cruise smoothly from place to place.

It has a built-in USB charger outside and a charging cable inside, this USB rolling backpack offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking.

As with most of the others, it comes with an adjustable telescoping handle and smooth wheels, reducing lots of burden on your shoulder, easier to carry in your daily use, and a fully padded laptop compartment accommodates

An elasticized belt fixes clothes or school books on the main compartment, keeping everything neat.

18. Wenger Wheeled Laptop Backpack

There’s no messing around with the Synergy pack – with thick padding and high-quality breathable mesh all over the back panel and harness, this will be as comfortable as any regular backpack.

It is also going to be easy to roll around, due to the high quality, smooth wheels and the retractable wheel handle. It has a triple-padded 16” laptop sleeve, as well as a 13” tablet sleeve.

This means that you could technically fit a bigger and a smaller laptop inside the bag.

19. HollyHOME Rolling Backpack

This HollyHOME rolling backpack is designed with plenty of pockets.

The thick foam-padded compartment of this rolling backpack is big enough for a 14-inch laptop.

The outer pocket can hold daily necessary stuff like keys, pens, and flashdrivers.

It is very easy to clean with 400D nylon fabric.

20. Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Luggage

When you travel far and pack light, the Osprey Sojourn 45 Liter /22 inch is the pack for the job.

The Sojourn features a spacious packing space, with several zippered pockets inside.

The total capacity of the backpack is 45 liters, so it can just as much stuff as a smaller suitcase. But, unlike a suitcase, the Sojourn has multiple external pockets, attachment points, and compression straps.

This pack also has top, bottom and side grab handles for effortless picking up.

One more great thing about the Sojourn is that both the back panel and the harness are padded and ventilated. Meaning that you will be comfortable even when you’re carrying the backpack on your shoulders. Especially since it has a sternum strap and a padded hip belt, which let you transfer the load of the pack away from your shoulders and onto your hips.

Related read: Packing List with 68 Essential Travel Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Bottomline

If you have never tried a rolling backpack before, then this is the best time to try! Say goodbye to sore muscles and hello to comfortable traveling with these rolling backpacks.

Do you have any questions or anything cool still to add on in our list? We love to discuss travel together with the essential things to have while traveling so go ahead and fire away, there are no wrong comments! 

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13 thoughts on “The 20 Best Rolling Backpacks for Avid Travellers

  1. I first hand absolutely agree with your statements in the first paragraph! When I first started traveling I bought a backpack because I wanted to look like a “real backpacker.” Well, on every trip I wound up looking like a “real fool” instead. It was just so uncomfortable! I would have to take it off every few feet! My best friend, who I always travel with, has a rolling backpack and I would BEG to switch with her on every trip! I’ll definitely be looking into buying one of these for our next trip!

  2. There are many times when a rolling backpack is the perfect thing to travel with. I like that there are some that are both functional and have some style. Good wheels are always important. Especially the way I load a suitcase! Some good options here.

  3. With all the traveling I do, I’ve actually never thought to try a backpack with wheels! It’s such a great idea, especially for shorter weekend trips. I like how you have a variety of prices and designs here. I would definitely go for something that could hold my laptop and keep things like my keys and passport handy.

  4. I love that I happened to come across this blog post now, because I’ve been looking for a suitable rolling backpack. I love blogs like these that do the research for me so I can save time and just get the best product out there, without having to spend hours researching myself. Thanks for sharing!

  5. Wow…those are quite a few choices. So far I had considered Jansport and Targus but seems like there are quite a few that are better. I like the J World one for its quirky design and tons of pockets. Might consider that for sure.

  6. Having a good backpack is so important and crucial for a good trip. I have bought so many of them till now. As the ones that I liked and bought turned out to be a disaster on the travel that I did. And some were so unfit for the kind of travels I was doing. And hence have landed with so many of them. These are such good list of backpacks and I will check them out as I do need a new one for a backpacking trip that I am traveling after this covid situation.

  7. I agree that rolling backpack is cool and practical. During my short trips, I use rolling backpack. And when I need to bring a lot, i use it like a luggage. Very convenient.

  8. These are wonderful options to pick from. These days a backpack is no longer a luxury but a necessity and nice to have at least a couple to keep alternating between.

    1. Agreed! I always need to have one with me, for my day adventures. Even if I’m traveling with a large suitcase.

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