06-08-2025
The Best Rolling Backpacks For Travel, Reviewed By Our Editors
For ease of movement on long travel days, a rolling backpack will come in handy. The best rolling backpacks have smooth, quiet wheels while still offering plenty of packing space for your gear. After reviewing dozens of options from top brands and gathering insights from experts, my top recommendation is the Matein Wheeled Rolling Backpack, thanks to its many compartments and water-resistant construction. I also recommend the Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack for a more affordable pick.
The best rolling backpacks have smooth wheels for ease of movement while still offering plenty of ... More packing space. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
'When choosing a rolling backpack, I always recommend focusing on versatility, comfort and durability,' says Ally Gibson, a travel content creator who has visited over 30 countries. 'You should look for a bag that transitions seamlessly from rolling to backpack mode, in addition to padded, adjustable shoulder straps and a breathable back panel that can make a big difference if you'll be carrying it for any length of time.' From a compact, duffle-style backpack to a well-organized roller bag, here are my recommendations for rolling backpacks in 2025.
Dimensions: 19.6 x 13 x 9 inches | Weight: 5 pounds | Material: Polyester | Carry-on or checked: Carry-On
Pros: Available in two sizes (17-inch and 18-inch)
Multiple exterior pockets
Smooth rolling wheels
Cons: May not be suitable for underseat storage
After reviewing the best options on the market, the Matein Wheeled Rolling Backpack is my choice for the best rolling backpack overall, thanks to its durable construction, smooth wheels, and plethora of internal and external pockets. There's a separate laptop compartment that can store laptops up to 17 inches, and mesh side pockets for stashing an umbrella and water bottle. The external pockets also have smaller mesh dividers so you can organize items like hand sanitizer, AirPods, pens, a notebook and more. No matter where you're traveling, the durable polyester construction will hold up against wear and tear, and the solid bottom panel protects your belongings from rain and abrasion.
Amazon Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack
Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 13 inches | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Material: Polyester | Carry-on or checked: Carry-On
Pros: Affordable
Comfortable shoulder straps
Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns
Cons: Handles are not as sturdy as other options
If you don't want to spend a fortune on a rolling backpack, I like this option by luggage brand Rockland, which includes a double handle. There's also a telescopic handle that adjusts to different heights, plus a grab handle on the top of the backpack. Similar to the Matein Wheeled Rolling Backpack, there are two mesh side pockets and external pockets for staying organized. And the best part? It costs less than $35.
Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 14 inches | Weight: 6.8 pounds | Material: Recycled fabric, polyester | Carry-on or checked: Carry-On
Pros: Stowable wheel cover and backpack straps
Multiple zippered pockets
Waterproof coating
Cons: Can be slightly heavy if overpacked
What sets the Samsonite Detour rolling backpack apart from the rest—besides its stylish design—is the fact that it seamlessly converts from a rolling backpack to a duffel bag. The wheel cover and backpack straps are stowable, so if you want to use this as a traditional duffle bag, you can convert it in a matter of minutes. Beyond the convertible design, there's a host of other helpful features that make this a winning pick. I like the bag's separate padded laptop compartment, key leash, Apple AirTag holder and zippered dividers in the main compartment.
Dimensions: 21.8 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds | Material: Ballistic nylon | Carry-on or checked: Carry-On
Pros: Duffel-style opening for easy packing
Comes with a luggage tag
Integrated TSA lock
Can be monogrammed
Cons:
Tumi is a well-reviewed luggage brand that is known for its high-quality, reliable and elevated bags (it was included in our guide to the best carry-on luggage ), and this bag is no exception. Although it's the most expensive option on our list, it's built to last and has several unique features, including the integrated TSA lock. The duffle-style opening allows for easy packing and unpacking, and there are several interior zippered pockets for organizing smaller items. I also appreciate the included luggage tag and retractable fabric panel that covers the wheels when you want to carry this on your back instead of rolling it through the airport.
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 6.4 pounds | Material: Ballistic polyester | Carry-on or checked: Carry-On
Pros: Several easy-to-access compartments
Abrasion-resistant
Hybrid design
Cons: Expensive
Accessories are sold separately
If you prioritize interior organization in your travel bags, the Tropicfeel Lift 52L Rollerbag is unbeatable. The brand is known for its innovative designs, and this hybrid backpack doesn't disappoint; the expandable front pocket gives overpackers extra space, and the multiple interior compartments make it easy to find your stuff. There's also a separate laptop pocket and water-resistant side pockets that are ideal for holding wet or dirty clothes—or even a pair of shoes. Similar to the Samsonite Detour Convertible Wheeled Hybrid Backpack, the backpack straps can be tucked away when not in use for a cleaner look.
The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of in-depth roundups on luggage , including the best carry-on backpacks , the best underseat luggage and the best weekender bags for men . Katherine Louie , the author of this piece, is a lifestyle editor with extensive experience covering travel and lifestyle topics. She has worked on countless travel product guides, including the best carry-on backpacks and the best TSA-approved luggage locks .
, the author of this piece, is a lifestyle editor with extensive experience covering travel and lifestyle topics. She has worked on countless travel product guides, including the and the . The travel section is overseen by Forbes Vetted's senior travel editor, Astrid Taran , an eight-year industry veteran who has visited over 40 countries. Some of her recent work includes the best carry-on luggage and the best luggage .
, an eight-year industry veteran who has visited over 40 countries. Some of her recent work includes the and the . For this story, Louie gathered key insights and guidance from Ally Gibson , a travel content creator who has visited over 30 countries.
To find the best rolling backpacks, we researched dozens of best-selling options, compared features, read countless independent reviews and reached out to an expert for insight and guidance. Our editorial team focused on rolling backpacks from trusted brands and retailers like Samsonite, Tumi and more.
We analyzed several important features, including materials, dimensions, weight and overall design, to help readers pinpoint the best option for their needs.
Gibson also provided her insights on what to look for when selecting a rolling backpack and offered recommendations based on her experiences.
The final products on this list reflect in-depth research conducted by our writer and meticulous vetting by the editorial team.
When shopping for a rolling backpack for travel, look for smooth wheels that can glide over different surfaces and comfort features (such as padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel) that make travel days hassle-free. According to the travel expert we tapped, here's what else to consider before making a purchase. Materials
Rolling backpacks, like other types of luggage, will be going over many different surfaces and need to withstand rough handling at baggage claim. 'For the best durability, look for backpacks made from high-denier nylon or polyester, which resist abrasion and are lightweight,' says Ally Gibson, a travel content creator who has visited over 30 countries. 'Water-resistant or waterproof coatings are also a big plus for protecting your belongings in unpredictable weather.' Our top pick, the Matein Wheeled Rolling Backpack, is made from polyester, which is a hydrophobic material (meaning it repels moisture). 'If you plan to check the bag, make sure it's sturdy enough to withstand rough handling, and pay particular attention to the wheels and handle, which are the most likely points of damage,' says Gibson. Hardware
The hardware should be just as durable as the materials used for the rest of the bag. 'Look for smooth, reinforced zippers, sturdy telescoping handles and robust wheels (ideally rubberized for quieter rolling),' says Gibson. The Samsonite Detour Convertible Wheeled Hybrid Backpack, for example, features a telescopic aluminum handle that's easy to grab and won't break or crack—even after constant use. 'Reinforced corners and a sturdy frame are also a must to help the bag withstand the chaos of travel.' Interior Organization
'Interior organization is another thing I always look for in every travel bag,' says Gibson. 'I love luggage with dedicated compartments for laptops, shoes and smaller essentials, which help keep everything tidy and easy to access.' All of the rolling backpacks we highlight in this guide have plenty of interior pockets to organize clothing, tech and smaller personal items that tend to get misplaced. In particular, the Tropicfeel Lift 52L Rollerbag offers an impressive amount of pockets, including a separate expandable compartment that's ideal for shoes or wet clothing.
What Is The Best Rolling Backpack?
The best rolling backpack for travel is the Matein Wheeled Rolling Backpack, which is made from a durable, water-resistant fabric and has 36 liters of packing space for all your belongings. The padded shoulder straps are adjustable, and the quick-access front pocket allows for essential documents like a passport or wallet to be easily accessible.
Is A Rolling Backpack Good For Travel?
Yes, a rolling backpack is excellent for travel because it provides you with increased mobility and ease of movement, which can be especially helpful as you move through the airport. Rolling backpacks are also versatile, as they offer travelers the ability to use the straps when they want to go hands-free or roll the bag along smooth surfaces.
Can You Take A Rolling Backpack On A Plane?
Rolling backpacks can be taken on a plane, train and all other forms of transportation. 'Most rolling backpacks are designed to fit within standard carry-on dimensions, making them a great option for overhead bins on most airlines,' says Gibson. Just be sure to check the carry-on dimensions for the airline you're flying before boarding.
