Decorative clutches and fancy looking handbags are all well and good – until you’re juggling a map, a guide book, Google translate and your suitcase in a foreign country while trying to look for your accommodation.
When travelling, you need all the helping hands you can get and a backpack leaves both of yours free.
Practical doesn’t have to mean plain though – here are the 10 best travel backpacks that don’t cost the earth, plus they look pretty good too.
1. Sportsgirl Davey Splice Backpack, $29.98
What’s black, white and stylish all over? This backpack. Even better, it’s under $30 and has two zip front compartments including a hidden one, perfect for storing your valuables.
Image: Sportsgirl
2. ASOS Leather Embossed Backpack, $108
Featuring extra long straps, wipeable leather body and a secure zip up, foldable front, this is one bag you'll want to use well past your travels.
Image: ASOS
3. Roxy Carribean Backpack, $59.99
A colourful print and a roomy inside (but three exterior pockets) make this a great travel choice.
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Multipurpose makeup reviewed by The Glow
4. STM Trestle Laptop Backpack, $119.95
Small but mighty, this is the bag for anyone who considers their phone, laptop, camera and multiple lenses to be the bare necessities. It's lightweight, compact, protective of your digital goods and fits a lot in.
Image: STM
5. Skinnydip x Coke Metallic Backpack, $79
It's shiny and silver. Need we say more?
Image: ASOS
6. Herschel Little America Mid Volume, $179.95
If you're the kind of person who likes to be, ahem, prepared this satchel backpack has plenty of room for all your requirements.
Image: The Iconic
7. Hannah Structured Backpack, $44.95
Structured and stylish, this is a staple that will see you anywhere - and won't let on the fact that you haven't showered in three days.
Image: Forever New
8. Ruby and Kit Feather Backpack, $49.99
Pretty and feminine, this will look light as a feather even if it doesn't feel it.
Image: Strandbags
9. Kipling Backpack, $149
Colourful, distinctive and with plenty of mini pockets mean everything is on hand when you need it.
Image: Strandbags
10. Converse Premium Rubber Backpack, $98
Bright and durable, you won't be losing this backpack in a hurry.
Image: ASOS.