The backpack I've worn around the world
One bag. 47 countries. Never once checked it. If you only buy one piece of travel gear, make it a backpack that does everything, and for me that's been my BagSmart. It's the bag in basically every photo of me at an airport, on a train, or hiking up to a viewpoint with my whole life on my back.
Why this is the one
I went through a few bags before this. What sold me: it actually fits a full trip's worth of packing cubes AND a laptop, the straps stay comfy on a long travel day, there's a hidden back pocket for your passport and cards, and crucially it still slides under the seat as carry-on. No checked bag fees, ever.
What I pack in it
Two packing cubes (one clothes, one underwear and swimwear), my camera, a slim toiletry bag, chargers, and my day bag folded flat. That's it for weeks at a time. The trick is versatile pieces you can mix and match, not more stuff. My full packing checklists are free if you want them.
Honest take
It's not a fashion piece, it's a workhorse, so if you want something prettier this isn't it. But for function, comfort and that no-checked-bag freedom, I haven't found better. Years of near-constant travel and mine is still going strong.
BagSmart Travel Backpack
My exact carry-on. Fits everything and still counts as cabin baggage.
Shop my gear →More of what's in my bag, plus every discount code, is on my links page. And if you want the trip itself sorted, my free guides have you covered.
