My Backpack is My Best Friend: 2 Recommendations

I’ve had two best friends within the last 4 years. Each had its own charm, and each had its flaws, but I had a wonderful experience with both.

1.    REI Co-op Vagabond Tour 40 Travel Pack (Light Carry-On Size) – I lived out of this backpack during my first 2 years abroad. After graduating college, I bought my new best friend from the Tempe, Arizona REI and stuffed it to the rim with my most useful belongings.

It’s quite small with only 3 main compartments. However, if you’re a simple person with no need for more than 2 pairs of shoes, it’s perfect. The best part about it is the carry-on size dimensions. I never had to check in this bad boy, despite holding all of my belongings for a couple years. It even fits on discount carriers (AirAsia, Jetstar, Ryanair). Its lightweight feature made it easy squeezing through crowded trains, trekking mountains, and walking cobblestone streets.

Takeaway: An average person would most likely reject this option for long-term travel. I loved it, but nowadays I use it mostly for short-duration trips (1-4 weeks).

Find it here: https://www.rei.com/product/863335/rei-co-op-vagabond-tour-40-pack

2.    Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack (Detachable Daypack, Fit for Nomadic Women) – I had a serious relationship with this pack for 1 year and 18 countries. It rode with me through Europe, hopped on a van with me through Spain/Morocco, and accompanied me through India to pursue my Yoga Teacher dream.

I prefer this bag for long-term travel. It has a detachable daypack with a laptop compartment, which I found to be useful for my digital education gig. It’s front straps also made it easy for me to attach my yoga mat. 

Takeaway: My choice for long-term travel. There is also a slightly larger size of the same model if you tend to travel with more equipment!

Find it here: https://www.rei.com/product/894562/osprey-farpoint-40-travel-pack