Best Minimalist Travel Bag- Our List for the Top Bags 2023

If you are looking for the best minimalist travel bag for your getaway, then stick around. As minimalists who travel a lot and never check our luggage, we feel as though we have mastered the process and the top minimalist travel bag. We’ll let you decide after reading.

How to Choose the Best Minimalist Travel Bag

Whether you are a fellow wanderluster, going on your first trip, long time traveler, or you like to save time and money, we’ve got you! Ready to ditch the heavy suitcase and embrace the world of minimalist travel bags? Let’s dive into it!

If you are tired of lugging around a heavy and bulky suitcase then it’s high time you invest in a minimalist travel bag. A minimalist travel bag is the perfect solution for those who want to travel with the essentials and leave the rest behind. We’re sharing all the essential information for choosing the best minimalist travel bag. 

Consider the Size and Weight of the Bag

Size and weight matter, right? When hunting for a minimalist travel bag, keep it in the Goldilocks zone – not too big, not too small, just right. Aim for a bag between 10-15 lbs., and don’t forget, lightweight is the name of the game. Keep it simple, keep it light.

Once you get your goods inside of it, you still have to be able to lift it into the overhead compartment, or the trunk of your car.

Look for Durability

Now, durability – that’s the real MVP. Opt for tough materials like canvas or nylon. They can handle all the bumps and scrapes of travel life, plus they’re a breeze to clean.

Check those zippers, handles, and straps too – they should be as durable as your travel spirit. Traveling isn’t for the lightweights.

Okay, it’s not hard, but when it comes to your bag, it is your ride or die. The last thing you want it to do is to die on you. It needs to be able to stand the test of being thrown around a bit into the overhead compartment. Your dad’s worn duffel bag from the 70s just isn’t going to do it.

Check for Compartments

Functionality is key. Look for a bag with compartments galore. Clothes, shoes, gadgets, toiletries, camera gear, and accessories should each have their own cozy space. No more unpacking everything to find your toothbrush. You need to have easy access to important things in case you need them quickly.

Consider the Design

Style? Of course, it matters. Go for something sleek and classic with neutral colors like black, beige, navy, or grey. Your minimalist bag should complement any outfit, making you the style icon of your adventures. Don’t even try to tell us that travel style doesn’t matter because, well, it does.

The best way to decide if the design is right for you is to take a photo of yourself with your bag. We’re not kidding. If you like the photo as much as you do the bag, BINGO! You have your bag!

Check for Additional Features

Now, for the extra perks. Cushion handles, water-resistant materials, cold weather proof, and built-in lock systems are like the cherries on top. They might add a bit to the price tag, but if you’re a frequent traveler, these features are worth every penny. A little bit of comfort goes a long way when it comes to travel gear.

Our Top Recommendations for the Best Minimalist Travel Bag

Choosing the best minimalist travel bag can make your travels more enjoyable and stress-free. A minimalist travel bag is not only stylish but also functional and practical. When shopping for a bag, remember to consider the size and weight, durability, compartments, design, and additional features. 

So, what is our go-to minimalist travel bag? Let us tell you about our personal preference and has been our long-term favorite since its conception.

Beis Carry-on Roller

If you take nothing else from this post, take away that this is the one bag you need. The BEIS Carry-on Roller has become our mainstay. People who travel with us are now owners of this bag.

It fits into the sweet spot for storing your travel must-haves and fitting neatly into those overhead compartments. But here’s the kicker: it’s got a nifty weight indicator right on the side carry handle. Simply give it a hold, and if it lights up red, you’ve crossed the 50-pound limit for most airlines, which might mean an extra fee. Time to consult our trusty travel prep list– THE only minimalist packing list you will ever need.

Inside, you’ll find a bunch of pockets, (even a hidden pocket) for easy organization and storage space. Plus, there’s a special nook for your dirty clothes and an extra pair of shoes. And check this out: it comes with two drawstring bags – the “Not Beis-ic” and the “Dirt Bag”. They’re perfect for stashing your dirty laundry, or it is a good place to store some small items or anything else you want to keep separate.

This baby has a butterfly opening, some snazzy vegan leather trim, waterproof zippers, and TSA locks. Oh, and don’t forget the section designed to hold damp items in case your swimsuit didn’t quite dry before you packed it.

Even better, you can extend it when you reach your destination early. Pop some extra items in there, and go hands-free while exploring a new city until check-in time. It truly allows for greater mobility due to its smooth roll. Want all the deets? Dive into our full review right here. You can use our BEIS discount code by heading this way to BEIS. 

Travel Packing Cubes

Some people use travel cubes to organize their things, but we have not needed to do so with this carry-on. However, if you really want to try out other options for your organization in your minimalist travel bag, we suggest you try one of these three packing cube sets. These are various styles and price ranges.

The Best Minimalist Backpacks for Traveling

If you are someone who prefers a travel backpack, either for your one-bag travel companion, to double as use for hiking, or as your personal item for flying, we have two of the best options for minimalist backpacks.

Backpacks are also great for short trips. Not to mention, they are also a breeze to get through airport security. A minimalist carry-on bag can just be a single bag if you prefer. There is no general rule that says you have to have a roller or suitcase.

If you prefer the bare minimum, a backpack serves as the best minimalist travel gear.

Osprey Farpoint 40

Let’s talk about the Osprey Farpoint 40 – the go-to pick for all you minimalistic adventurers out there. This backpack is a true game-changer, boasting a smart design and a top-notch organizational system. It opens up just like a suitcase, making packing and unpacking a breeze.

Plus, it’s compact enough to serve as your trusty carry-on, or for day trips. This is the best backpack for those who prefer to travel light and skip the hassle of going the checked bag route. With comfortable shoulder straps and a roomy main compartment, this ranks at the top of minimalist travel backpacks.

We don’t love that it is usually listed as a Men’s backpack. Obviously, anyone can use travel backpacks. That is really our only downside to it, but we blame the Osprey marketing for that.

Patagonia Black Hole

The Patagonia Black Hole backpack is the best travel backpack for outdoor enthusiasts who crave durability without the bulk. Crafted from 100% recycled polyester, this eco-conscious companion combines sustainability with functionality.

Its zip closure ensures quick access, while two spacious compartments, a lined tablet pocket, a padded 15” laptop sleeve, a front organization compartment, a stash pocket, and a mesh back panel keep your gear well-organized and comfortable. 

Additionally, it sports water bottle pockets for hydration on the go, and the adjustable and removable sternum strap provides versatility. Plus, with its waterproof coating and eco-friendly materials, this backpack proves that you can travel light and responsibly.

Stand tall with a height of 19cm, and rest easy with a specialist cleaner to keep it in top shape. This bag is not only great for minimalist travelers, but it is also perfect for digital nomads due to it being a convenient laptop backpack.

Travel lighter, go further, and good news! You can reduce your environmental footprint with the Patagonia Black Hole backpack.

Traveling with Your Minimalist Travel Bag

In the world of minimalist travel, choosing the right bag can make or break your adventure. Trust us. We’ve been on the other side, checking luggage, waiting on luggage, losing luggage, paying the extra cost, etc.

We have also, as minimalists, waited on co-travelers who think that the non-minimalist way of traveling is best. Soon after they spend a trip with us, they change their mind and opt for the minimalist route.

If your best friend is holding you up from enjoying your travels, well, it is time to ditch that best friend. Okay, kidding… sort of.

We’ve never heard anyone say that they did not have a good time because they needed extra space in their bag. Even for longer trips, like packing for our trip to Alaska, we had a smaller bag for our personal items and our one carry-on roller as our main bag.

We did not check our luggage, nor do we ever plan to do so again in our entire life. It can be done. 

Consider a Minimalist Travel Bag

Each of these bags brings its unique charm to the table, catering to different travel styles and needs. The good options are the ones you are going to use and that allow you the most time to enjoy your travels.

Whether you’re a jet-setter, a nature enthusiast, or a wanderluster, there’s a minimalist travel bag waiting to become your trusty companion. These also make wonderful gifts for the traveler in your life!

So, pack light, stay organized, and embark on your next adventure with confidence, knowing you’ve got the perfect travel bag by your side. The most important thing to remember is that life isn’t about the stuff, it’s about the experiences.

FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions