Travelling with kids can be an adventure all on its own.

And finding the best travel backpack for kids can make the experience even more enjoyable.

The right backpack doesn’t just carry their things.

It helps them feel prepared, confident, and excited to be part of the journey.

It gives them a special place to keep their favourite items close by, while gently teaching them responsibility in a fun and simple way.

And if you’re a traveling mom planning your own gear, be sure to check out our guide to the best backpack for traveling mom

When Should Kids Have Their Own Backpack

Kids aged 6 to 12 are ready to carrying their own backpack. At this age, they are big enough to carry their own little backpack.

But they still need something that’s light, comfy, and easy to carry, so it doesn’t feel too heavy or get in the way.

Why Should Kids Carry A Backpack

Many kids like bringing their own things — like a favourite toy, a book to read, a colouring set, or snacks for the road.

Having their own bag makes them feel more grown-up and gives them a special place to keep the things they care about most.

It also helps them learn to take care of their stuff. They get to choose what goes inside, remember where it is, and make sure it doesn’t get lost. It’s like having their own little piece of the trip to look after.

Plus, backpacks are comfy to carry. The straps go over both shoulders so the weight is spread out, which means it’s easier to walk around without getting tired. It’s way better than trying to hold everything in their hands or in a bag that slips off one shoulder.

So, giving kids their own backpack isn’t just helpful for parents — it makes travelling more fun, exciting, and easy for kids too!

What to look for

When picking a backpack for kids, it’s important to find one that’s fun to use and comfy to carry. Here are a few things to look out for:

• Lightweight – The backpack should be light even before putting anything inside, so it doesn’t feel too heavy on their back.
• Right size – The bag shouldn’t be too big or too small — just the right size for their back and the things they want to bring.
• Strong and sturdy – It should be made from tough materials so it won’t rip or break easily, even if it gets tossed around.

Choosing a backpack with these things in mind will make travelling much easier and more fun for both kids and parents.

Best Travel Backpack For Kids

Travel Backpack With Wheels For Kids

J World New York Sunrise Kids Rolling Backpack

Rolling down the hallway or riding through the airport, this bag keeps pace with energetic kids who like to bring everything along. The Sunrise flips easily between a rolling suitcase and a backpack — so when the path gets bumpy, they can pop out the straps and carry it on their shoulders.

What surprises most people is how much it holds without looking bulky. Two heavy textbooks, a laptop, snacks, and even a change of clothes slide in comfortably, and the underseat-friendly size means it doubles as a personal carry-on during family trips.

Smaller essentials get their own spots in the front organizer (pens, cards, keys, treasures), and mesh side pockets keep water bottles close at hand.

Its tough build is what makes it last: ripstop polyester, a molded base that resists scuffs and pavement scrapes, and a sturdy metal frame that helps it stay upright without tipping. Smooth wheels and an easy-glide handle keep travel effortless, while the straps tuck neatly away when not in use.

Bright patterns stay vivid through long school years, and the seams hold tight even when it’s stuffed to the brim — which, let’s be honest, is most of the time.

Stylish Travel Backpack For Kids

Cotopaxi Allpa 20L

Bright, bold, and perfectly sized — the Allpa 20L makes travel feel fun and grown-up all at once. Its clean shape and eye-catching colour blocks give it a stylish look kids love showing off in airports and train stations, while the compact frame keeps it easy to handle on their own.

The clamshell layout opens completely flat, so they can pack like mini pros and actually see what they’ve packed. Two roomy compartments fit outfits, toys, and souvenirs, while a padded sleeve keeps their tablet safe on the go.

Padded shoulder straps and an adjustable sternum strap keep the bag comfortable even on long travel days, and a quick-grab top pocket keeps cards, tickets, or keys close by.

The side pocket holds a water bottle without making the bag bulky, and outer webbing loops are perfect for clipping on a jacket or travel tag.

Structured enough to stand tall but light enough for small shoulders, the Allpa 20L is a stylish travel companion that helps kids feel ready for the journey — and proud to carry their own gear.

Travel Backpack With Trolley/Luggage Sleeve For Kids

Caran·Y Waterproof Kids Backpack

For kids who travel often, this backpack is all about making the journey easier. Its built-in luggage sleeve slides securely over a suitcase handle, so young travellers can roll through airports or train stations without carrying all the weight on their backs.

Once the suitcase is checked or stowed, it lifts off easily and becomes a lightweight backpack they can manage on their own.

The compact shape keeps it from feeling bulky, but there’s still space for schoolbooks, toys, or travel gear. Multiple compartments and side pockets keep everything neatly organised, and the sturdy zippers hold up through constant zipping and unzipping.

Made from water-repellent nylon that’s resistant to scuffs and fading, it stays looking clean and bright even after plenty of adventures.

Soft, breathable shoulder straps keep it comfortable to wear between stops, and they’re adjustable (or removable) to fit different ages and sizes. A playful ribbon detail adds a bit of personality, while the structured design keeps belongings from shifting around inside.

Practical, tidy, and built for smooth transfers, this backpack takes the stress out of travel for both kids and parents.

Small Travel Backpack for Kids

Fjällräven Unisex Kånken Mini

Small enough for little shoulders but big on charm, the Kånken Mini is made for young explorers who like to bring their favourite things along.

It’s just the right size for day trips, field outings, or plane rides — roomy enough for a tablet, snacks, a water bottle, and a few toys, but never bulky or heavy. Its compact shape makes it easy for kids to carry proudly on their own.

The simple design keeps packing stress-free: one main compartment for everything important, a front zip pocket for quick-grab items, and a slip pocket for small treasures.

The two-way zipper opens wide, and a protective flap helps keep out light rain. Inside, a removable foam insert adds structure and softness — and can even double as a little seat pad when it’s time for a rest.

Adjustable straps let it grow with them, and a snap-top handle makes it easy to grab on the go. Durable, water-resistant fabric keeps up with energetic use, while the bright colours and neat shape make it feel special — like their very own travel bag, perfectly sized for adventures.

Kids’ Travel Backpack for Girls

Osprey Daylite Jr

The Daylite Jr. packs a lot of spirit into its small size, giving girls a stylish and dependable way to carry their essentials on every adventure.

At just 9 litres, it’s light enough for younger travellers to manage easily, yet roomy enough for books, snacks, toys, or a spare outfit — perfect for travel days, nature camps, or spontaneous weekend outings. A built-in hydration sleeve keeps water close on active days, so they can keep moving without slowing down.

Inside, an admin compartment keeps smaller items neat with pockets and a clip for keys or trinkets, while stretch side pockets hold water bottles within quick reach.

The padded shoulder straps and chest strap help the bag stay steady on smaller frames, and the top handle makes it simple to grab and go. There’s even a built-in whistle on the sternum buckle for an extra bit of safety during outdoor adventures.

Made from PFAS-free, Bluesign Approved materials, it’s kinder to the planet while staying tough enough for years of use. The fabric repels light rain, the zippers glide smoothly for small hands, and the slim shape fits under airplane seats without a struggle.

With its bright colours and cheerful designs, the Daylite Jr. gives girls a travel backpack that feels fun, looks stylish, and keeps up with every adventure.

Kids’ Travel Backpack for Boys

Carhartt Classic Mini Backpack

Built tough for everyday adventures, the Carhartt Classic Mini Backpack gives boys a no-nonsense way to carry their essentials wherever they go. Its compact size makes it easy to handle, while the rugged 600-denier polyester fabric and

Rain Defender water-repellent finish keep gear dry through surprise showers or rough outdoor play. Whether it’s a day trip, a quick weekend outing, or the school run, this pack is made to handle it all without slowing them down.

The main compartment offers just enough space for travel basics, books, or snacks, with an interior mesh pocket to keep small items from getting lost. Up front, a fleece-lined pocket protects delicate gear like phones, earbuds, or small electronics, keeping them scratch-free even when tossed in quickly.

Sized at 7.5″ × 11.75″ × 5“, it’s light enough for younger kids yet sturdy enough to hold its shape when full. Adjustable webbing straps grow with them, and the structured build won’t sag or slump over time.

Simple, strong, and built to last, this backpack gives boys a dependable travel companion that matches their energy and keeps up with their adventures.

Final Thought

Travelling can be exciting and memorable for kids, and having the right backpack helps make the journey even more fun, comfortable, and stress-free. The perfect travel backpack isn’t just about carrying things — it gives kids a sense of independence, responsibility, and pride as they set off on new adventures.

By choosing a bag that’s light, sturdy, and sized just right, you’re giving them more than a travel essential — you’re giving them their very own little piece of the journey to call their own.

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