By having the best wheeled backpack for travel, you get the best of both worlds, luggage that you can easily roll around and a backpack that you can carry on those odd occasions when wheeling luggage is just not practical. Whilst a backpack is fantastic for carrying upstairs and across uneven surfaces, the reality is the majority of the time you can easily wheel your luggage.
If you’re looking for the best travel wheeled backpack, then you have come to the right place, as this guide takes you through everything you need to know when purchasing rolling backpacks.
In these wheeled backpacks reviews, I’ll take you through everything you need to consider step by step to ensure you purchase the best rolling backpack for travel. I will help you understand the importance of size and weight and a range of other factors such as wheels and handles. Lastly, I’ll take you through some of the best wheeled travel backpack options currently available, so you can find the perfect backpack with wheels for you.
In this guide we look at all sorts of cool rolling backpacks, from the best carry on backpack with wheels to large backpack with wheels, as well as options for the top of the line packs to good overall cheap rolling backpacks. So no matter what type of travel rucksack with wheels you’re after, you’re sure to find it here.
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Page Contents
- 1 What is a wheeled travel backpack and when should you use one?
- 2 My pick for the best travel wheeled backpack for travel 2024: Osprey Ozone
- 3 Comparison chart for best wheeled backpacks 2024
- 4 Things to consider when purchasing the best rolling backpack for travel
- 5 Best wheeled travel backpack reviews 2024
- 5.1 Osprey Ozone 40L Wheeled Backpack
- 5.2 Osprey 60L Rolling Backpack – Sojourn
- 5.3 High Sierra Convertible Wheeled Backpack
- 5.4 JanSport Rolling Backpack
- 5.5 J World Carry On
- 5.6 Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel Bag
- 5.7 Yorepek Carry On Backpack with Wheels
- 5.8 Flylite Wheeled Backpack
- 5.9 HSYKING Travel Backpack with Wheels
- 5.10 Aoking Rucksack with Wheels
>> Looking for something else? We have guides on a range of luggage including:
1. Kid’s Ride On Luggage
2. Carry On Backpack
3. Kids Backpacks
4. Kids Suitcases
5. Cross Body Bags
What is a wheeled travel backpack and when should you use one?
Basically, a rolling travel backpack is just as it sounds – a backpack that is on wheels. You have the option to either wheel it like a regular suitcase or carry it on your back like a regular backpack.
I’ve travelled with most kinds of luggage, a backpack (my preferred choice), a suitcase and a travel backpack with wheels. There are benefits of all kinds of luggage depending upon the type of travel you’re embarking on.
So what are the benefits of travelling with wheeled backpack luggage and when might you use them? Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of travelling with backpacking bags with wheels:
- Backpacks weigh you down and it’s nice to have a travel bag with wheels so you can wheel it around when you’re on even surfaces;
- Suitcases can be a nightmare going up and down stairs or across uneven surfaces, so rolling backpack luggage is awesome as you can easily carry it on your back as needed;
- If you’re travelling with kids, often it can be easier to take less but use bigger cases and combine everyone’s luggage together – as stated above having a rucksack with wheels allows you to wheel it along for the most part, but safely carry it when required; and
- Given the soft materials backpacks are made from, you can easily compact them when not full and save on space.
That’s not to say there isn’t still a time and place for your regular backpack or suitcase, because there absolutely is!
My backpack is still my preferred choice when travelling, but for example, if you’re travelling somewhere like Europe and staying in cheap hotels, you might appreciate being able to easily carry your bag upstairs (not all hotels have lifts), but you’ll also appreciate being able to wheel your bag around when there are even surfaces.
My pick for the best travel wheeled backpack for travel 2024: Osprey Ozone
Don’t have time to read the entire best wheeled backpack review?
For the best wheeled backpacks, you can’t go past one by Osprey, my favourite Osprey wheeled backpack is the Osprey Ozone.
I just love this bag because of how well its design has been thought through. There are many pockets that all have a great purpose intended and it is super convenient and comfortable to wear.
It’s super lightweight, with a capacity of 40L, so you can easily use this backpack as carry on luggage – or fill it to capacity and check it in.
Click here to check out prices for the Osprey Ozone or to buy yours now.
Comparison chart for best wheeled backpacks 2024
For a quick overview of all the convertible wheeled backpack options contained in this guide, check out the handy table below. Here you can easily compare the various features of the bags side by side in order to make an informed decision as to which is the best convertible backpack for you.
| Name | Image | Size (litres) | Weight | Dimensions (HxWxD) | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osprey Ozone | | 40l | 2.03kg | 55x35x25 | Check Price |
| Osprey Sojourn |  | 60l | 3.71kg | 71x44x35 | Check Price |
| High Sierra |  | 39l | 2.3kg | 56x36x29 | Check Price |
| JanSport |  | 36l | 3kg | 53x25x35 | Check Price |
| J World |  | 40l | 2.2kg | 51x23x34 | Check Price |
| Osprey Transporter |  | 40l | 2.7kg | 60x36x28 | Check Price |
| Yorepek |  | 40l | 2.27kg | 49 x 34 x 24 | Check Price |
| Flylite |  | 56 x 35 x 22 | Check Price | ||
| HSYKING |  | 55l | 3.4kg | 60 x 37 x 25 | Check Price |
| Aoking |  | 50l | 2.72kg | 58 x 39 x 22 | Check Price |
Things to consider when purchasing the best rolling backpack for travel
There’s no one size fits all when it comes to a backpack suitcase with wheels. What’s perfect for me is not necessarily the perfect bag for you, so it is important that you take the time to consider what it is you need out of your backpack.
Consider the following features before purchasing your wheeled backpack.
Capacity
Often people think bigger is always better, but when it comes to luggage nothing could be further from the truth! You should only ever buy luggage as big as you need, and if in doubt go smaller.
If you’re looking for a small backpack with wheels or a rolling backpack carry on size, don’t go over 45 litres – even then, double check the size restrictions of a few of your favourite airlines and compare this to the bag you’re considering purchasing to ensure it meets their requirements.
If you’re looking for a large rolling backpack, I probably still wouldn’t go past 60-70l. I travel with a 46 litre bag and find this is plenty for just me. I’ve even used this bag for travelling in Europe during the winter. However I do travel light – but as you can see, even if you have an extra 10-20 litres, you’re going to have oodles of room.
For your convenience, I have included the capacity of all the convertible wheeled luggage contained in these reviews in the above comparison table.
Weight
You will find that even the best wheeled backpack travel options are going to be heavier than your standard backpacks. So if weight is a priority for you, you may need to skip the wheeled backpack and stick with a traditional pack.
With airlines being super strict on the weight of both checked and carry on baggage it is super important to choose a lightweight backpack with wheels that meets your requirements.
For your convenience, I have included the weight of all the wheeled luggage contained in these reviews in the above comparison table.
Fabrics and materials
Wheeled backpacks tend to be made with much sturdier and heavier fabrics such as canvas, nylon or cordura. Look for packs made with durable yet lightweight fabrics, with heavier fabrics around the edges and back where most of the wear tends to happen.
You’ll also want to ensure that the hardware of the backpack is made with sturdy yet lightweight materials. Look for packs made with lightweight aluminium frames, high-quality moulded chassis, and robust wheels with strong bearings.
Keep in mind that there’s always a trade-off between the quality of materials and weight as well as price. The lighter the backpack and the higher the quality of materials used, the more pricey the pack will be.
Compartments
I am not overly concerned with compartments as I like to use packing cubes and find this a far easier way to organise my things rather than having multiple compartments. Click here for information on packing cubes.
Even for people carrying a laptop, I personally don’t think it is necessary to have a separate compartment for a laptop as usually your laptop comes in its own protective case. My backpack doesn’t have a laptop compartment and I always travel with my laptop. However many of the best rolling backpacks for adults do in fact come with laptop compartments.
I prefer to keep items such as passports, tickets, purse, phone etc in a smaller bag across my body so I am not concerned about having compartments for these items either. Click here to see my guide on cross body bags.
Straps, comfort and fit
Now whilst for the most part, you will likely be wheeling your pack, you will still want to ensure it’s comfortable to wear on your back and fits well.
Ensure the backpack comes with a good strap system to spread the load of the backpack across your back, with most of the weight resting on your hips via the hip belt.
Things to consider when looking at straps include padding, breathable fabric, removable, adjustable and do they stow away for plane travel.
Backpack straps should be adjustable around the hips, the shoulders, and even across the chest to keep the shoulder straps in place regardless of body shape.
Compression straps are also helpful when it comes to a good fit. Not only do compression straps help to pack your bags tighter, but they also bring the load closer to your centre of gravity for more comfort.
Handles
Ensure your backpack has a handle that retracts quickly and easily, as handles that don’t can be really frustrating when walking through a busy airport.
It is also recommended that you look for handles that are tall enough to allow you to pull your luggage at a comfortable arm’s length while also contracting mid-way.
Also, look for a pack that has both top and side handles in order to make it easier when loading in and out of transport and off the baggage claim carousel.
Best wheeled travel backpack reviews 2024
Osprey Ozone 40L Wheeled Backpack
I just love anything from Osprey – these guys know how to make top quality packs for travellers, so it’s not surprising that quite a few Osprey wheeled bags feature in these reviews. But my top recommendation for a backpack with roller wheels is the Osprey Ozone Convertible. Although it comes with a fairly pricey price tag, this Osprey rolling backpack combines the best of both a standard suitcase and backpack.
In order to keep it lightweight (an amazing 2kg), this pack has been constructed with a lightweight aluminium frame. This means it’s super sturdy but lightweight for when you carry it on your back as well as not eating into your precious weight allowance. In fact, if you don’t overfill this Osprey wheeled luggage, you can use it as a carry on backpack (just double check with your airline first).
With this lightest wheeled backpack, there’s plenty of room for your belongings with various compartments. The main large compartment comes with a separate zippered mesh compartment as well as dual compression straps to keep everything together. The top of the day pack also includes a small zippered pocket which is perfect for keeping those smaller items you need easy access to.
It’s super easy to wheel this pack around the airport too with oversized wheels for superior rolling and the buttonless trolley handle is ergonomic for a comfortable grip.
Everything about this pack is made to last. You’ve got ultra tough fabrics – which aren’t just made to last but are 100% recycled too. Plus there are heavy duty zippers that aren’t going to break while you’re on your adventures.
Other awesome features of this ultra light wheeled backpack include padded handles, a large, easy access liquids pocket at the top, a rear panel pocket and large wheels with sealed bearings for a smooth ride – even on cobblestones, so awesome if you’re after the best wheeled backpack for Europe travel.
With so many features, you can see why I’m raving about the Osprey Ozone pack.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
Osprey 60L Rolling Backpack – Sojourn
The Osprey Sojourn 60L backpack with wheels is another great Osprey rucksack with wheels with loads of great features and a quality build.
This large wheeled backpack luggage is too big to use as a cabin backpack with wheels but it is still super comfortable to wear on your back. The deployable harness, hip belt and back panel all help to provide ultimate comfort while the oversized wheels, lightweight HighRoad Chassis and dual tube extendable handle give a smooth ride on any surface.
There is plenty of room in these 60 litre capacity Osprey wheeled bags. The back panel suspension components can be removed to increase the packing capacity and the dual straight jacket compression straps help to secure and stabilize the load.
Other great features of this Osprey rolling backpack are the grab handles, dual front panel daisy chains, zippered top pocket for easy access and the technical pack suspension with ventilation to keep you dry in hot climates, which is removable when you need room for extra gear.
And if you want something even bigger, this Osprey wheeled luggage also comes in an 80l size if you want an extra large backpack with wheels.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
High Sierra Convertible Wheeled Backpack
If you are looking for a large rucksack with wheels then make sure you check out the High Sierra Composite Wheeled Backpack.
This backpack comes in three sizes (39L, 79L and an impressive 89L), so it’s a great option whether you’re after a carry on or a large travel backpack with wheels. If you need a big backpack with wheels, then opt for the 79 or 89l pack.
These packs are made from a strong but lightweight polyester material and has self repairing zippers. There is a fully separate pocket for dirty boots, an RFID secure pocket, and a padded front section. The telescopic handle and padded shoulder straps pack neatly away into the back compartment when they’re not required.
Other great features of this bag are the corner guards and kick plate that protect both the bag and your belongings, front top and side grab handles and external loops to attach extra gear.
Whether you’re looking for a carry pack or a large wheeled backpack, the High Sierra packs really tick all the boxes.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
JanSport Rolling Backpack
The Jansport rolling backpack comes from the super popular brand Jansport which has been making backpacks since 1967 and they are known for their great and spacious style backpacks and the travel pack with wheels is no exception.
If you are looking for rolling luggage with backpack straps that are a great size for carry on luggage, then make sure you check this 36L one out. At 53cm high and 25cm wide and weighing only 3kg, this is a great sized bag for your next travel adventure.
This small rucksack backpack with wheels is made with durable fabric, zippers and straps that are sure to last. The 80mm inline skate wheels are large and side mounted and provide traction and stability when you are wheeling the bag instead of carrying it on your back. The two stage retractable handle is super easy to control.
Other great features of this wheeled day pack are the padded laptop sleeve, two main compartments including a padded laptop compartment that will fit a laptop up to 15 inch, a front drawbridge compartment with an organiser, a front zippered stash pocket and a side water bottle pocket. This bag also has tuck-away shoulder straps, a padded back and a quick-grab handle.
This is a fantastic rolling backpack that is fashionable and comfortable to carry.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
J World Carry On
The J World New York is a small rucksack with wheels and handle and is a great lightweight cabin bag option that doesn’t skimp on storage space and options.
Measuring 51 x 23 x 34 cm, weighing just 2.2kg and with 40 litres of storage space, this backpack makes the perfect carry on luggage. It even comes in a whopping 22 different designs so there is sure to be something to suit everyone’s taste.
This backpack is made to last using 600D PU coated water resistant polyester that is sure to hold up to abrasions, especially when coupled with the bottom scrape shield, rubber feet and wrap around bumper.
The adjustable top handle allows you to pull the bag along as luggage but the back airflow panel and ergonomically designed straps make it perfectly comfortable enough to carry for long periods.
The bag has an internal padded laptop sleeve, two side pockets for water bottles and a large front compartment with separate slots for valuables so there is plenty of space to keep your gear organised.
If you’re after a wheeled backpack to use as carry on that will stand up to the test of time, the J World New York is well worth considering.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel Bag
The Osprey Transporter is another great option to consider if you’re after the best rolling duffel backpack. While coming in a range of sizes, the 40L capacity Transporter is the perfect carry on for those after a top quality bag.
This backpack with wheels and handle has some great features to ensure it is easy and comfortable to transport. This best-wheeled duffel features a top handle that tucks down flat when not in use, while the extendable handle and overside wheels make for smooth rolling even if you’re heading to Europe and need to roll it over cobblestones.
Not only is the bag easy to manoeuvre, but it’s durable too. Made with recycled polyester, this bag is resistant to moisture and the weather resistance zippers are made to last the distance.
Despite being made with durable materials, this bag weighs in at just 2.7kg. This is super lightweight – which as we know is a must for those wanting a carry on bag. With dimensions of 60cm high, 36cm wide and 28cm deep, there’s plenty of room for all your gear. But don’t max it out or you won’t be able to use it as carry on luggage.
Other great features of this duffel bag are the spacious main compartment with dual compression straps, a zippered internal pocket, a large external end pocket and multiple padded grab handles for easy grabbing of the bag.
As well as the 40L option, this wheeled duffel bag comes in the choice of 60L, 90 and 120L.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
Yorepek Carry On Backpack with Wheels
The Yorepek carry on backpack with wheels is a great option for those that want flexibility. With this backpacking backpack with wheels, you can use it as a regular wheeled bag or a backpack and it’s the perfect size whether you want to travel with it or use it in your day to day life.
This rucksack with wheels and handle is made from water resistant, tear resistant and dirt resistant polyester fabric and the bottom kick plate protects the back from any abrasion.
It’s super easy to maneuver too with smooth rubber wheels and an adjustable telescopic handle that can easily be hidden away into the backpack when not in use. When using it as a backpack, you’ll find it comfortable to wear thanks to the multi panel ventilated padding which is great for airflow as well as back support.
The large main compartment has plenty of space for your clothes and other travel gear and there is even a fully padded laptop pocket too. In addition, there is a second zippered compartment to keep your gear well organised. Externally there are two mesh pockets perfect for water bottles or umbrellas and a zippered pocket for small items.
Other great features of this bag are the lockable metal zippers to keep your valuables safe, hidden padded backpack straps that are padded and fully adjustable, side compression straps to secure the load and perhaps best of all the USB port with built in charging cable so you can easily keep your devices charged while on the go.
The bag itself weighs just 2.27kg and the dimensions are 24 x 34 x 49cm – so this awesome convertible backpack is a great size for those wanting a carry on for their next backpacking adventure.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
Flylite Wheeled Backpack
The Flylite Wheeled Backpack is a fantastic wheeled luggage bag that is super comfortable to transport and has so many great features.
This ultra light wheeled backpack is small enough to be carry on baggage or just for everyday use. The comfortable padded straps can be packed neatly away in the back zip panel whilst you use the top grab handle or telescopic handle to transport the bag.
This backpack has multiple pockets so it’s easy to keep all your belongings organised. There are two spacious front pockets, a top zip pocket, an internal padded laptop sleeve and two side bottle holders. As well as all this, the main compartment is fully zipped to the front, making packing super efficient and easy.
Other great features of this bag include the RFID protected pocket and smooth roll, durable wheels.
The Flylite wheeled backpack is a great option for anyone who wants something reliable that doesn’t break the bank.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
HSYKING Travel Backpack with Wheels
The HSYKING travel backpack with wheels is a great option for anyone after a cheap wheeled backpack. This is one of the cheapest backpack options in these reviews but still stacked with all the great features you need in a wheeled backpack.
This knapsack with wheels is made from a nylon water resistant and tear resistant polyester and has a retractable telescoping aluminium handle so it can easily be pulled along behind you or stored away when not in use. The large aluminium and rubber wheels make for a smooth glide on a variety of surfaces.
It has a capacity of 55l and dimensions of 37 x 25 x 60cm so there is plenty of room for all your belongings on your next family holiday. The weight of the bag itself is only 3.4kgs, so while heavier than most bags in this guide, it still won’t negatively impact your baggage weight allowance too much.
With multiple compartments, the pack ensures you can easily keep your gear organised. You’ve got four compartments including a zippered accessories pocket, a zippered front pocket for quick access items, a smaller front compartment and then your main compartment for your clothes which also has a laptop sleeve. In addition, there are two zippered side pockets which are perfect for water bottles.
The backpack is also comfortable to wear with the backside being made from breathable material. Plus there are adjustable S straps which are ergonomic and ventilated for maximum comfort.
This is a great backpack on wheels for such a low price and it most definitely ticks all the boxes for those after a basic wheeled backpack.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
Aoking Rucksack with Wheels
The Aoking Rolling Backpack with wheels is a great option for anyone after a cheap wheeled backpack.
This knapsack with wheels is made from water and tear resistant fabric and has a retractable telescopic tow handle so it can easily be pulled along behind you. The 360 degree turning spinner wheels make it super easy to transport with minimal effort.
This pack has a capacity of 50 litres and dimensions of 58 x 39 x 22 cm so there is plenty of room for all your belongings on your next family holiday. The weight of the bag itself is only 2.7 kg so it is quite lightweight and won’t negatively impact your baggage weight allowance too much.
Other great features of this backpack with wheels are the large expandable main compartment with a laptop pouch, a divided second compartment, two side pockets and two front zippered pockets.
This is a great backpack on wheels for such a low price and it most definitely ticks all the boxes for a basic wheeled backpack.
Click here to check the current price and to read more reviews.
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Hopefully you found this guide on choosing a wheeled backpack helpful. We have guides on other travel products too such as kids suitcases, carry on backpacks and cross body bags.