Capaciously Compact Travel Backpacks

Utah-based Gregory Mountain Packs has a brand slogan that states that great packs should be worn, not carried, and its Detour 40 travel backpacks certainly exemplify that mission statement. Named for their 40-liter capacity which makes them ideal as carry-on luggage on airplane journeys, the Detour 40 is a backpack that strikes the perfect balance between compactness and capacity, whilst offering a streamlined structure that's easy on your body and secure storage that will let you rest easy that your belongings are where you left them.

When you initially cast a glance on the Detour 40 backpack, your first impression might be that you can't really carry a whole lot of stuff in it. But open it up and begin loading it, and you'll feel like the backpack is a bottomless reservoir for everything for your clothes and gear to your electronics, toiletries and other accessories. The smaller components are a godsend if you're a disorganized packer, and make this a backpack that manages to fit in plenty without ever feeling like it's stuffed or bursting at the seams.

These travel backpacks also features a range of thoughtful design features that make it quick and painless for you to reach in and grab what you need at any given time, a feature that's always appreciated when you're traveling and tired on the road. A classic U-shape zip offers entry to the main compartment, while the zippered internal security pocket helps keep smaller items in place. Digital nomads will take note of the laptop compartment, which features ample padding and a floating construction that will mitigate the impact from any drops, while backpack-wearers of all stripes will be thankful for the convenient water bottle pocket.

Perhaps most importantly, none of these carriage and access features are achieved at the cost of comfort. The Detour 40 features a dual-density foam backpanel and a contoured shoulder harness design that will ensure that your back and shoulders don't easily succumb to the rigors of travel, whether you're solemnly puttering through cobblestone paths in search of your hostel or frantically racing through big-city streets to get to the airport in time. The adjustable straps ensure that you can find an optimized fit that makes the backpack sit securely, its weight evenly distributed across your vertical plane. The integrated sternum strap ensures that even a fully-stuffed backpack won't leave you unstable and wobbly.

Available for only $119.95 as a cheaper and more compact, carry on-friendly cousin to Gregory's Detour 60, the Detour 40 is a wonderfully compact yet capacious backpack that provides the comfort and convenience you need on your travels, along with the convenience of a carry-on size.