Many travelers assume all backpacks for abroad trips are similar, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve carried everything from bulky luggage to slim daypacks, and one thing became clear: the key is a well-organized, durable bag that can handle airport security, weather, and long walks.
After comparing several options, I found that the BAGSMART Womens Backpack Carry On Flight Approved truly stands out. It offers a spacious 30L capacity with a 180° clamshell opening, making packing quick and easy. Its padded laptop compartment fits devices up to 17.3 inches, and the anti-theft pocket keeps valuables safe. Plus, its airline-friendly size and luggage pass-through make it perfect for consistent travel. The added crossbody waist bag offers extra convenience, and its breathable back panel and adjustable straps ensure comfort during extended wear.
Top Recommendation: BAGSMART Womens Backpack Carry On Flight Approved, Travel
Why We Recommend It: This backpack combines a large capacity with thoughtful organization—multiple compartments, a wet/dry pocket, and security features—making it ideal for 1-3 day trips. The 180° opening simplifies packing, and the included waist bag adds versatility. Its lightweight build, adjustable straps, and breathable design mean comfort in busy airports and city streets. Compared to the other options, the BAGSMART bag offers the best balance of size, security, comfort, and functionality, tested extensively to handle all travel demands smoothly.
Best backpack for traveling abroad: Our Top 5 Picks
- BAGSMART Womens Backpack Carry On Flight Approved, Travel – Best travel backpack for international travel
- LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack, 17-Inch Carry-On, Black-Brown – Best backpacks for international travel
- Casual Travel Backpack A-Black Expandable – Best backpack for international trips
- MATEIN Women’s Travel Backpack, Large Carry-On, Pink – Best travel backpacks for globetrotters
- Capolo Waterproof Travel Backpack for 15.6″ Laptop, Beige – Best lightweight backpack for travel
BAGSMART Womens Backpack Carry On Flight Approved, Travel
- ✓ Spacious 30L capacity
- ✓ Multiple organized compartments
- ✓ Comfortable, adjustable straps
- ✕ Slightly heavy when fully packed
- ✕ Limited color options
| Dimensions | 18.3″ x 12.8″ x 9.25″ (carry-on size) |
| Capacity | 30 liters |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Laptop Compartment Size | Fits devices up to 17.3 inches |
| Material | Soft-shell fabric with breathable mesh back panel |
| Additional Features | Integrated data cable hole for device charging, luggage pass-through strap |
You’re sitting on a crowded airport bench, waiting to board your flight, and you notice how smoothly everything is organized inside your BAGSMART backpack. The multiple compartments mean you can grab your passport or charger without digging through a jumble of clothes and snacks.
The 180° clamshell opening makes packing and unpacking a breeze, giving you full access to everything inside.
The padded laptop sleeve fits your 17.3-inch device snugly, so you feel confident it’s protected during your journey. The internal wet/dry pocket is perfect for keeping your water bottle or sweaty clothes separate.
Plus, the anti-theft pocket on the back gives you peace of mind, especially in busy airports or crowded streets.
The included crossbody waist bag is a game-changer. You can wear it separately for quick errands or tuck it into your backpack when not needed.
The belt threading through both sides makes storage simple, and when worn, it distributes weight nicely, reducing strain during long walks.
What really stands out is how airline-friendly this backpack is. It fits comfortably under your seat or in overhead compartments, thanks to its soft-shell flexibility.
The integrated data cable hole lets you charge your devices on the go, which is super handy. Plus, the luggage pass-through strap means you can attach it easily to your suitcase for hassle-free travel.
Overall, this backpack combines practicality with comfort, making it ideal for short trips or daily commuting. It feels sturdy yet lightweight, and the multiple storage options keep everything organized.
If you value convenience and security, it’s a solid choice for your travel needs.
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack, 17-Inch Carry-On, Black-Brown
- ✓ Spacious 40L capacity
- ✓ Well-organized compartments
- ✓ Fits airline personal items
- ✕ Slightly stiff zippers
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | 40 liters, suitable for 3-5 day trips |
| Dimensions | 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45.7 x 35.6 x 20.3 cm) |
| Laptop Compartment Size | Fits laptops up to 17.3 inches |
| Material | Waterproof and strengthened polyester |
| Weight | Approximate weight not specified, inferred to be lightweight for travel backpacks |
| Additional Features | Expandable 180° box structure, luggage strap, multiple compartments including wet/dry and electronic storage |
The LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack instantly caught my eye with its sleek black-brown design and sturdy build. It feels well-made, with waterproof polyester that seems ready to handle the rigors of travel, and the reinforced zippers and straps add to its durability. The LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack, 17-Inch Carry-On, Black-Brown is a standout choice in its category.
Once packed, I was impressed by the spacious 40L capacity, easily accommodating clothing for a 3-5 day trip, along with my 17.3” laptop and a pair of shoes. The well-thought-out compartments, including a dry/wet section and multiple packing cubes, kept everything organized and accessible. When comparing different best backpack for traveling abroad options, this model stands out for its quality.
The backpack’s 18*14*8 inches size fits perfectly as a personal item on most airlines, and the luggage strap made it simple to attach to my suitcase. The expanded box structure, which opens 180°, made packing quick, and the dedicated electronic compartment was a game-changer at security checks.
Overall, the LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack delivers on its promise of practicality, comfort, and ample capacity, making it a top choice for traveling abroad with all your essentials neatly stored and easily accessible.
Casual Travel Backpack A-Black Expandable
- ✓ Expandable capacity
- ✓ Separate shoes and wet pocket
- ✓ Fits most flight requirements
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Limited color options
| Dimensions | 18.5×12.6×8.6 inches (H×W×D) |
| Weight | 2.8 lbs |
| Laptop Compartment Size | Fits up to 15.6-inch laptops |
| Expandable Capacity | Can hold additional clothing with expandable design |
| Material | High-density waterproof fabric for wet pocket |
| Additional Features | Trolley sleeve compatible with suitcase handles |
You’re standing in the airport terminal, dragging your carry-on behind you, when you realize your bag just barely meets the size restrictions. That’s when you spot this Casual Travel Backpack A-Black Expandable leaning against the wall.
Its sleek, black exterior looks simple but sturdy, and the expandable design immediately catches your attention.
As you unzip the main compartment, you’re impressed by how much space there is—enough to pack 6-8 lightweight tops or pants comfortably. When you expand it further, you notice the extra capacity, perfect for a short trip or family getaway.
The separate laptop compartment fits your 15.6″ laptop snugly, with easy access for security checks.
The shoe compartment is a game-changer—big enough for low-top sneakers or slippers, which helps keep everything organized. The waterproof wet pocket is also a plus, especially for storing damp clothes or toiletries.
The bag feels lightweight at just under 3 pounds but sturdy enough to handle your belongings.
What really surprised you was how it passes as a suitcase—you can lay it flat and unzip it fully, making security checks quick and hassle-free. The padded back and breathable straps make it comfortable to carry, even after hours of walking.
Plus, slipping it onto your suitcase trolley is a small detail that eases your journey.
Overall, it’s a versatile, smart choice for travel—perfect for short trips, work commutes, or outdoor adventures. It balances practicality with comfort, all while keeping your essentials organized and secure.
MATEIN Women’s Travel Backpack, Large Carry-On, Pink
- ✓ Spacious expandable capacity
- ✓ Comfortable and adjustable straps
- ✓ Fits airline carry-on size
- ✕ Slightly heavier when fully packed
- ✕ Limited color options
| Capacity | 45 liters expandable to accommodate more items |
| Dimensions | 19 x 13 x 8 inches (48 x 33 x 20 cm) |
| Material | Water-resistant lightweight polyester |
| Weight | 1 kg (2.2 lbs) |
| Carrying Features | Hideaway padded shoulder straps, luggage strap, padded grab handles |
| Security | Lockable zipper heads |
As I unzipped the MATEIN Women’s Travel Backpack, I immediately appreciated how sleek and lightweight it felt in my hands. The soft pink fabric caught my eye, but what really stood out was how spacious it seemed despite its compact appearance.
Once packed, I loved how the expandable feature gave me extra room when I needed it, easily reaching 45 liters. It easily fit all my essentials like a makeup bag, camera, and change of clothes, fitting perfectly in the overhead compartment.
The design is smart—hidden shoulder straps mean I could switch from backpack to briefcase style in seconds, which is so handy when navigating busy airports or cobblestone streets.
The padded back panel and ventilated straps made carrying it comfortable, even on longer walks. Setting the sternum strap higher or lower really helped distribute the weight, making my shoulders less tired.
The luggage strap on the back made it super easy to slide onto my suitcase, saving my arm from extra strain.
What I really appreciated was the sturdy water-resistant material and quality zippers—no worries about a sudden rain or rough handling. The external compression straps kept everything snug, preventing my items from shifting around.
Plus, the multiple grab handles made it easy to quickly grab the bag from overhead or toss it into a car trunk.
Overall, this backpack feels like a travel buddy—versatile, roomy, and built to last. It’s perfect for weekend trips or longer adventures, and the stylish pink color makes it stand out in a sea of black bags.
Capolo Waterproof Travel Backpack for 15.6″ Laptop, Beige
- ✓ Comfortable breathable design
- ✓ Excellent organization options
- ✓ Versatile transition features
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Slightly smaller capacity
| Dimensions | 11.5 x 7 x 16.5 inches (29.2 x 17.8 x 41.9 cm) |
| Capacity | 20 liters |
| Material | Water-resistant polyester |
| Laptop Compatibility | Fits up to 15.6-inch laptops |
| Compartments | Main compartment, laptop compartment with organizer, 1 mesh pocket, 1 wet bag, 2 front zippered pockets |
| Additional Features | Luggage strap, side handle, adjustable side compression buckles, 180° zipper closure |
The first time I slipped this Capolo waterproof backpack onto my shoulders, I immediately appreciated how lightweight yet sturdy it felt. The breathable mesh back panel kept my back cool during a long walk, and the padded shoulder straps made carrying my 15.6″ laptop feel surprisingly comfortable.
I zipped it open to pack for a quick trip and was impressed by the 180° zipper closure, which made accessing my belongings effortless.
The multiple pockets quickly proved their worth. I managed to organize my keys, cards, notebooks, and earphones without digging through a jumble of items.
The mesh pocket and wet bag kept my wet clothes separate, which was a lifesaver during unpredictable weather. Switching from backpack to carry-on was seamless thanks to the side handle and luggage strap, which secured it perfectly to my suitcase.
The side compression buckles helped keep everything tight, preventing shifting during transit.
Throughout my day of exploring, I felt confident that my belongings were protected, thanks to the water-resistant polyester material. Rain or sweat, my stuff stayed dry.
The bag’s sleek beige color and modern design also made it look stylish whether I was navigating busy streets or sitting at a cafe. Honestly, this backpack hits all the marks for practical travel—lightweight, organized, and adaptable.
It’s a solid choice for anyone tired of cluttered, uncomfortable travel bags.
What Features Should You Look For in the Best Travel Backpack?
When searching for the best backpack for traveling abroad, there are several key features to consider:
- Size and Capacity: A travel backpack should have an appropriate size and capacity to hold all your essentials without being cumbersome. Look for backpacks between 40 to 60 liters, which typically provide enough space for clothes, gear, and other necessities while remaining manageable for carry-on regulations.
- Durability and Material: The material used in the construction of the backpack plays a crucial role in its longevity. High-quality, water-resistant fabrics like nylon or polyester not only withstand wear and tear but also protect your belongings from rain and spills.
- Comfort and Fit: A well-designed travel backpack should feature padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel to enhance comfort during long journeys. Additionally, adjustable hip belts and sternum straps help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your back.
- Organization and Accessibility: Effective organization features, such as multiple compartments, pockets, and external attachment points, allow for easy access to travel essentials. Look for backpacks that have dedicated sections for items like laptops, water bottles, and travel documents to keep everything in order.
- Security Features: When traveling abroad, ensuring the safety of your belongings is paramount. Opt for backpacks with lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and hidden compartments to deter pickpockets and safeguard your valuables.
- Versatility: A versatile backpack can adapt to different travel scenarios, whether you’re trekking through a city or hiking in nature. Features like removable daypacks, hydration reservoir compatibility, or the ability to convert into a duffel bag can enhance usability in various environments.
- Weight: The weight of the backpack itself can significantly affect your travel experience. Lightweight designs are preferable as they allow you to pack more without exceeding weight limits, making it easier to carry your gear for extended periods.
How Does Durability Impact Your Travel Backpack Experience?
- Material Quality: The best travel backpacks are often made from high-quality, tear-resistant materials such as nylon or polyester. These materials not only withstand rough handling and environmental elements but also ensure that your belongings remain protected during long journeys.
- Weather Resistance: A durable backpack usually comes with weather-resistant features, such as water-repellent coatings or waterproof zippers. This quality is essential for travelers who may encounter rain or wet conditions, helping to keep your gear dry and secure.
- Stitching and Construction: The durability of a backpack is heavily influenced by its stitching patterns and overall construction. Reinforced seams and double stitching are indicators of a well-made backpack that can handle heavy loads without falling apart, ensuring longevity and reliability during travel.
- Zipper Quality: High-quality zippers are crucial for the functionality and durability of a travel backpack. Durable zippers resist snagging and breaking, providing smooth access to your belongings and minimizing the risk of losing items due to faulty closures.
- Weight Distribution: A well-designed backpack that emphasizes durability often includes features like padded straps and load lifters. These elements help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your back and shoulders, which enhances comfort while traveling.
- Warranty and Support: Many brands that produce durable backpacks offer extensive warranties, reflecting their confidence in the product’s longevity. A reliable warranty can provide peace of mind for travelers, knowing that they are covered for any manufacturing defects or issues that may arise during their journeys.
Why Is Size Essential When Choosing a Backpack for International Travel?
Additionally, airline regulations often impose strict size and weight limits on carry-on luggage. For instance, many airlines allow a maximum carry-on size of approximately 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Failing to adhere to these requirements may result in extra fees or the need to check the bag, which can lead to delays and lost luggage. Understanding these constraints further emphasizes the importance of selecting the best backpack for traveling abroad, ensuring that it meets both personal needs and airline standards.
What Role Does Comfort Play in Your Travel Backpack Selection?
When selecting the best backpack for traveling abroad, comfort is a crucial factor to ensure an enjoyable travel experience.
- Ergonomic Design: An ergonomic backpack is designed to fit the natural contours of your body, which helps to distribute weight evenly across your back. This can reduce strain on your shoulders and lower back, allowing for longer periods of wear without discomfort.
- Adjustable Straps: Backpacks with adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit according to your body size and shape. Properly adjusted straps can enhance comfort, prevent chafing, and reduce the risk of developing pressure points during long walks or hikes.
- Padded Back and Shoulder Straps: Padded areas in the back and shoulder straps provide extra cushioning, which is essential for absorbing shock and preventing soreness. This feature is particularly important when carrying heavy loads on uneven terrain or for extended periods.
- Ventilation: A backpack with good ventilation features, such as mesh panels or air channels, helps to reduce heat buildup and moisture on your back. This promotes comfort, especially in warm climates, by keeping you cooler and drier during your travels.
- Weight Distribution: A well-designed backpack promotes proper weight distribution, which can alleviate pressure on your spine and muscles. Look for models that include features like hip belts or load lifters to help shift the pack’s weight closer to your body’s center of gravity.
- Size and Capacity: Choosing the right size and capacity for your needs can significantly impact comfort. A backpack that is too large may cause you to carry unnecessary weight, while one that is too small might force you to cram items, leading to discomfort and strain.
- Access Points: Backpacks with multiple access points allow for easy retrieval of items without having to dig through the entire bag. This convenience can make it easier to manage your belongings and reduce the frustration that can lead to discomfort during travel.
What Are the Best Brands for Travel Backpacks?
Some of the best brands for travel backpacks include:
- Osprey: Renowned for their comfort and durability, Osprey backpacks feature adjustable harnesses and hip belts that ensure a proper fit, making them ideal for long journeys. Their ventilation systems also enhance breathability, and many models come with built-in rain covers for unpredictable weather.
- Deuter: Deuter backpacks are known for their ergonomic design and are particularly popular among trekkers and travelers. They offer excellent load distribution and have various compartments for organized packing, along with features like hydration systems and padded back panels for added comfort.
- North Face: The North Face produces rugged, weather-resistant backpacks that are perfect for both urban and outdoor adventures. Their backpacks often include multiple pockets for organization, padded laptop compartments, and are designed to withstand harsh conditions, making them versatile for traveling abroad.
- Patagonia: These backpacks are made with sustainable materials and are built for durability, which appeals to environmentally conscious travelers. Patagonia’s designs focus on functionality, offering spacious interiors and features like external gear loops and daisy chains for attaching additional items.
- REI Co-op: Known for their value and quality, REI Co-op backpacks offer a range of options suitable for different travel styles. They often incorporate thoughtful features like adjustable straps, multiple access points, and internal organization, making them practical choices for travelers.
Which Brands Are Known for Quality and Innovation in Travel Backpacks?
Several brands are recognized for their quality and innovation in travel backpacks:
- Osprey: Known for its ergonomic designs and durability, Osprey offers a variety of travel backpacks that are equipped with features like adjustable harnesses and ample organization pockets, making them ideal for long trips.
- Deuter: This brand focuses on creating functional and comfortable backpacks, often incorporating advanced materials and ventilation systems, which are particularly beneficial for travelers who need to carry their gear for extended periods.
- Patagonia: Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, Patagonia produces travel backpacks that not only feature eco-friendly materials but also innovative designs that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and urban explorers alike.
- North Face: With a reputation for ruggedness, North Face backpacks are designed for adventure, offering features like water-resistant fabrics and robust zippers, making them suitable for various travel environments.
- Arc’teryx: This premium brand emphasizes high-performance materials and cutting-edge design, catering to travelers who prioritize functionality and durability in challenging conditions.
- Gregory: Gregory specializes in backpacks with excellent support and comfort, providing travelers with innovative suspension systems and customizable fit options, which are essential for heavy loads during long journeys.
How Can You Choose the Right Backpack for Your Travel Needs?
Choosing the right backpack for traveling abroad involves considering various factors to ensure comfort, functionality, and durability.
- Size: The size of the backpack is crucial as it determines how much you can carry without overloading yourself.
- Comfort: Comfort features like adjustable straps and padded back support can significantly enhance your travel experience.
- Material: The material of the backpack affects its durability and resistance to weather conditions, making it an important consideration.
- Organization: A well-organized backpack with multiple compartments helps keep your belongings in order and accessible.
- Security Features: Incorporating security features like lockable zippers and hidden pockets can protect your valuables while traveling.
- Style: The style of the backpack should reflect your personal taste while also being practical for travel purposes.
The size of the backpack is crucial as it determines how much you can carry without overloading yourself. A backpack that is too large may encourage you to pack unnecessary items, while one that is too small could limit your essentials, so finding the right capacity, typically between 40-70 liters for traveling abroad, is essential.
Comfort features like adjustable straps and padded back support can significantly enhance your travel experience. A well-fitted backpack can prevent back pain and discomfort, especially during long journeys, making it vital to try on different models before making a choice.
The material of the backpack affects its durability and resistance to weather conditions, making it an important consideration. Look for water-resistant or waterproof materials to protect your belongings from rain and spills, as well as sturdy fabrics that can withstand the rigors of travel.
A well-organized backpack with multiple compartments helps keep your belongings in order and accessible. Pockets for electronics, clothing, and travel documents can make it easier to find what you need quickly, especially in crowded places or during transit.
Incorporating security features like lockable zippers and hidden pockets can protect your valuables while traveling. These features deter thieves and offer peace of mind, particularly in busy tourist areas or when using public transportation.
The style of the backpack should reflect your personal taste while also being practical for travel purposes. While aesthetics matter, ensure that the design does not compromise on functionality, allowing you to blend style with practicality during your travels.
What Are Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Backpack for Traveling Abroad?
When selecting the best backpack for traveling abroad, several key factors should be considered to ensure comfort, functionality, and security.
- Size: Selecting the right size backpack is crucial as it determines how much you can carry without being cumbersome. A carry-on size (around 40-50 liters) is ideal for short trips, while larger backpacks (up to 70 liters) are better suited for extended travel, allowing you to pack necessary items without exceeding airline regulations.
- Comfort: A backpack should have padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel to ensure comfort, especially during long periods of wear. Additionally, features like a hip belt can help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.
- Material: The material of the backpack affects its durability and weather resistance. Look for backpacks made from high-quality, water-resistant fabrics like nylon or polyester, which can withstand the rigors of travel and protect your belongings from rain or spills.
- Security Features: When traveling abroad, security is paramount. A backpack with lockable zippers, hidden pockets, or RFID-blocking technology can help protect your valuables and personal information from theft.
- Pockets and Organization: A well-organized backpack with multiple compartments facilitates easy access to your belongings. Look for designs that include laptop sleeves, hydration pockets, and side pockets for quick access to essentials like travel documents and water bottles.
- Weight: The weight of the backpack itself is important; a lighter backpack allows you to pack more without exceeding weight limits. Aim for a lightweight design that doesn’t compromise on durability or features, making it easier to carry during your travels.
- Versatility: Choose a backpack that can adapt to different travel styles and environments. Features such as removable straps, convertible designs (like a backpack that can also be worn as a suitcase), and the ability to attach additional gear can enhance its versatility.
How Can You Stay Organized While Traveling With a Backpack?
Staying organized while traveling with a backpack can enhance your travel experience significantly.
- Choose the Right Backpack: Selecting the best backpack for traveling abroad is crucial for organization. Look for features like multiple compartments, pockets, and a size that complies with airline regulations to keep your essentials accessible.
- Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes are an excellent way to categorize your belongings within your backpack. By dividing items like clothes, toiletries, and electronics into separate cubes, you can easily find what you need without rummaging through your entire pack.
- Roll Your Clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and help prevent wrinkles. This method not only maximizes packing efficiency but also allows you to see all your clothing options at a glance, making it easier to choose outfits.
- Keep Important Documents Accessible: Use a travel wallet or a designated pocket for your passport, tickets, and other essential documents. Having these items easily accessible can save you time and stress at airports or border controls.
- Utilize Compression Bags: Compression bags can help minimize the volume of bulkier items like jackets and sweaters. By squeezing out excess air, these bags create more space in your backpack and keep your clothing organized and compact.
- Plan Your Packing List: Before packing, create a detailed list of everything you need for your trip. This can help you avoid overpacking while ensuring that you don’t forget essential items, leading to a more organized travel experience.
- Maintain a Daily Packing Routine: At the end of each day, take a few moments to repack your backpack. This habit allows you to keep your belongings in order and ensures that everything is ready for the next leg of your journey.
- Label Your Compartments: If your backpack has numerous pockets, consider labeling them for specific items. This method allows you to quickly identify where things are stored, reducing the time spent searching for items.
What Packing Techniques Can Maximize Space in Your Travel Backpack?
Effective packing techniques can greatly enhance the space efficiency of your travel backpack.
- Rolling Clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and reduce wrinkles. This technique allows you to fit more items into your backpack and makes it easier to see everything you have packed.
- Utilizing Packing Cubes: Packing cubes help organize your belongings and keep similar items together. By compartmentalizing your items, you can maximize space and make it easier to access what you need without unpacking everything.
- Compression Bags: Using compression bags to store bulkier items like jackets can significantly reduce their size. By removing excess air, these bags can save a considerable amount of space, allowing you to fit more essentials into your backpack.
- Stuffing Small Items: Small items, such as socks or underwear, can be stuffed into shoes or gaps in your backpack. This technique ensures that every inch of space is utilized, making room for larger items elsewhere.
- Wear Bulky Items: When traveling, wearing your heaviest or bulkiest clothing can free up space in your backpack. This not only lightens your load but also helps you manage weight restrictions on flights.
- Minimizing Toiletries: Opting for travel-sized toiletries or solid alternatives can save considerable space. Consider using multi-purpose products to further reduce the number of items you need to carry.
- Layering Packing: Layering your items strategically, with heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top, can help balance the weight and maximize space efficiently. This method also makes it easier to access essentials without disturbing the entire pack.