I began my backpacking journey in 2024 and spent a lot of time researching which backpacks would actually work for my needs. Let me just say every minute of research was worth it, because I truly believe I’ve found the perfect combination. Let me explain why.
Firstly, the two backpacks I use are the Osprey Europe Women’s Backpack 50L as my main backpack, and for my daypack and hand luggage I use the Db Journey Unisex Hugger Backpack 20L. You can find both items linked to Amazon if they seem like a good fit for you!
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When it came to the Osprey backpack, I was torn between the 50L and the 70L. I tried both in-store and immediately felt like I was drowning in the 70L (for reference, I’m 167 cm / 5’6”). I honestly cannot stress enough how happy I am that I chose the 50L. Carrying even more weight than necessary would have made travel days pretty unpleasant. The size forces you to pack light, while still having space for literally everything you need without destroying your back. It’s so much more manageable on travel days, trust me. I’ve traveled for multiple months with this backpack and never once felt like I was missing space for something I wanted to bring. I’m incredibly grateful I didn’t overpack. Trust me, you need less than you think!
In terms of functionality, this backpack is amazing. It opens fully like a suitcase, meaning you don’t have to pull everything out from the top just to grab something at the bottom. It makes staying organized so much easier, and when paired with packing cubes, repacking and travel days become way less stressful. There are also internal straps that keep everything in place. The backpack has adjustments literally everywhere, making it easy to get the perfect fit for your body. It also comes with a rain cover that fully covers the backpack — perfect for travel days and checked luggage on flights. The quality is incredible, and I’ve never once worried about any part of it breaking.
As for my Db Journey 20L, I found it to be the perfect complement to the Osprey, especially compared to having all that extra weight in a 70L backpack. Db is a Scandinavian brand (fun fact: it was originally called “Douchebag” until they expanded to the US and had to change the name). These backpacks are extremely popular in the Nordics — you’ll see people using them everywhere, from school to work and everyday life. By bringing my Db backpack, I still effectively have 70L of space, but the weight is distributed across my body.
Similar to the Osprey, this backpack opens fully like a bag and has great internal organization, plus an amazing top lid for smaller items. It also has a hidden external laptop compartment that sits against your back, making it almost impossible to steal from while you’re wearing it. I genuinely swear by this feature. You can find the Hugger in 20L, 25L, and 30L depending on your preference, and there are waterproof options available as well.
I really hope my research and experience help inspire you to find the perfect backpack for your next adventure — and I hope your next trip is absolutely incredible 🤍
Sanne