What is the Best Wheeled Backpack? A Geek’s Guide
A wheeled backpack is the best solution to enjoy the benefits of using a backpack and suitcase. However, if you’re not careful, you can get the worst of both.
The ideal luggage should combine the best elements of a suitcase and backpack hybrid. We take the difficult part from you by showing the best backpack with wheels, and the reasons why you should consider them.
Wheeled Backpacks Comparison Table 2017
All product links will take you to Amazon for updated pricing**
Image | Model Name | Capacity (liters) | Strap Type | Material Type | Price | Ratings |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
31.16 | tuck away shoulder straps | polyester | $$ | 4.4/5 | ||
N/A | Air Mesh shoulder straps and waist belt | nylon | $$ | 4/5 | ||
38.5 | Air Mesh shoulder straps and waist belt | 1000 denier duralite | $$ | 3.5/5 | ||
60 | spacer mesh shoulder straps and hipbelt | nylon | $$$ | 4.4/5 | ||
33 | compression and air mesh shoulder straps | polyester | $$ | 4.1/5 |
Our Top Pick:

Jansport Wheeled Superbreak – Best Value
With a capacity of 2,000 cubic inches, this bag offers plenty of room for everything, without prompting you to spend more. the polyester bag measures 19X13X9.5 inches and weighs 6 pounds and an ounce, making it a great choice for light travels.
The Superbreak features a large compartment that serves as the main slot for most of your things while a front pocket is designed for easy access. A retractable, three-stage molded handle frees your back while the tuck away shoulder straps allow you to carry it as a backpack. It is built with corner mounted skate wheels that are stable and easy to control, as well as skid rolls for protection. It comes in various colors at an affordable price.
Eagle Creek Luggage Flip Switch Wheeled Backpack – Only if you Want the Best
If you’re willing to spend a bit more for a wheeled backpack, it’s best to spend it on a bag that’s built for rough rolling and maximum comfort. It’s made of 100% cotton and synthetic lining, measuring 20 inches high and weighing 6 pounds, 7 ounces. It features a sturdy, retractable handle and durable wheels.
Carrying the bag as a backpack offers comfortable solutions. It is designed with a suspension system placed in the front panel so that the stiff back won’t lie against your back. It features adjustable hip belt and sternum straps and padded, contoured mesh shoulder straps. Reduce the load by removing these straps or carry it with the padded handles on top, side and bottom when heavy.

High Sierra Adventure Access Carry On Wheeled BACKPACK – Best Bang for your Buck
This bag gives the best bang for your buck for it is durable and very well-made. It is perfect for those looking for a versatile bag to use for a variety of purpose. It comes with a detachable daypack that is very useful during city sightseeing. It is 22 inches long and 6.8 pounds heavy, making it pass as carry on.
Padded back straps tuck the straps away into a back panel while the daypack has S-shaped padded straps. Mesh padded ergonomic grab handles wick moisture while the inline skate wheels are recessed and corner mounted. The main bag opens like a suitcase complete with restraining straps while the daypack comes with multipurpose pockets.

Osprey Meridian Wheeled Luggage – For Ballers
This 22-inch, 60-litre backpack offers deluxe travel in a carry on size. It offers a wealth of organization features such as a laptop friendly detachable daypack, inner and back panel compartments.
The spacious main compartment secures items with straps. It is built with mesh pockets for better organization, top pocket for frequently used items, laptop sleeve for your electronics and side pockets for water. The suspension is similar to what you would see on quality trekking bags, with superior support, ventilation and padding. It has removable shoulder strap and waist belt assembly for more space and lighter load.

Granite Gear Haulsted Wheeled Backpack – Awesome for the Price
If you’re looking for a functional wheeled backpack at less the price, this one is perfect. It is made of fabric and polyester, with zipper closures and dimensions of 19.5X13.25X8.5 inches. Weighing only 5.1 pounds with storage capacity of 33 liters, this bag is ideal for light packing.
Roll the bag in rough surface and it is sure to bear it as it is built with rugged wheels with wheel housing. The handle is made of durable aluminum with rubber grip. Your items are protected against extreme elements as the bag is protected by taurpalite lined repelaweave fabric. For comfort, it is built with fully padded back panel, foam shoulder harness and adjustable compression straps. It boasts hydration pockets and computer sleeve that holds up to 15-inch sized laptops.

What makes great travel gear?
Let's face it, for long term travel, often wheels are not what you need. The main advantage when is when you are in an airport for a quick trip and you can pull around your luggage. However, you likely need a much larger pack that is built for more than an overnight trip. Which is why we put together a great list of awesome travel rucksacks for your next big trip. We suggest you give the guide a look. Who knows, you might find something that will inspire your next trip around the world.
Final Thoughts
It’s not easy to find the best wheeled backpack for travel because you still have to consider weight and comfort since you still have to carry it from time to time. It is best to go for one that’s as lightweight as possible.
Which of the products above you think offers most comfort when worn as a backpack?
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