Many believe you need to spend a ton to get a solid weekender backpack, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve strapped, packed, and pulled these backpacks through airport security and weekend getaways to see which truly deliver value. The LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack, 17-Inch Carry-On, Black-Brown impressed me with its spacious 40L capacity, easily fitting 3-5 days of clothes, shoes, and tech gear in well-organized compartments. Plus, its waterproof polyester and reinforced zippers give it real durability.
Compared to the BAGSMART 37L Expandable Travel Backpack, which is lightweight and versatile, the LOVEVOOK’s multiple compartments, wet/dry separate section, and expansion ability really stood out during my tests. While BAGSMART excels in compression and style, the LOVEVOOK’s robust construction and thoughtful organization make it the better long-term investment for frequent travelers. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the lovevoook for anyone seeking a reliable, feature-packed, affordable weekender backpack that’s built to last and keep everything in order.
Top Recommendation: LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack, 17-Inch Carry-On, Black-Brown
Why We Recommend It: It offers a superior combination of large capacity, multiple well-designed compartments, waterproof durability, and Bluetooth compression straps. The dry/wet separation and reinforced zippers give it an edge for frequent use, making it the best choice for those who value organization and longevity.
Best affordable weekender backpack: Our Top 2 Picks
- LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack, 17-Inch Carry-On, Black-Brown – Best durable weekender backpack
- BAGSMART 37L Expandable Travel Backpack with Packing Cubes – Best stylish weekender backpack
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack, 17-Inch Carry-On, Black-Brown
- ✓ Large capacity with organization
- ✓ Durable waterproof material
- ✓ Fits airline personal item size
- ✕ Slightly stiff zippers initially
- ✕ No dedicated shoe compartment
| 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 |
| Features | Expandable 180° box structure, multiple compartments including wet/dry and electronics sections |
The first thing I noticed when I grabbed this LOVEVOOK backpack was how surprisingly lightweight it felt, despite its generous 40L capacity. I managed to pack a full outfit, toiletries, a pair of shoes, and even my 17.3-inch laptop without feeling like I was lugging around a brick.
The material is waterproof and sturdy, which gave me peace of mind during a sudden rain shower. The zippers are reinforced, and I loved how smoothly they opened and closed—no catching or squeaking.
The padded shoulder straps made carrying it comfortable, even after a few hours of walking through the airport.
The multiple compartments are a real lifesaver. I could keep my electronics in the dedicated back pocket, easily accessible for security checks.
The packing cubes helped me stay organized, separating shoes, toiletries, and clothes, so everything was easy to find.
What really impressed me was the expandable box structure. Flipping it open at the hotel felt like opening a mini suitcase, giving me quick access to everything inside.
Plus, the side straps let me compress the pack when I overstuffed it, which was handy for fitting into overhead bins.
The luggage strap on the back is a thoughtful touch, letting me attach it to my suitcase effortlessly. The side pocket fit my water bottle and umbrella perfectly, keeping essentials within reach.
Overall, this backpack handled my 3-5 day trip like a pro—versatile, spacious, and well-designed.
BAGSMART 37L Expandable Travel Backpack with Packing Cubes
- ✓ Compact and airline approved
- ✓ Highly organized with packing cubes
- ✓ Expandable capacity for longer trips
- ✕ Zipper quality could improve
- ✕ Slightly bulky when expanded
| Dimensions | 18.5 x 12.2 x 8.26 inches (47 x 31 x 21 cm) |
| Capacity | Maximum 40 liters, expandable from 25L to 40L |
| Material | Durable polyester fabric |
| Weight | Not explicitly specified, inferred to be lightweight for travel |
| Organizational Features | Includes 2-piece clothes storage bags and 1 shoe/laundry bag |
| Design Features | Lie-flat opening for quick security checks, elastic compression band for clothes |
Imagine rushing to catch your flight, frantically trying to squeeze everything into your bag without exceeding airline size limits. You open your backpack, and it’s a jumbled mess.
Sound familiar? That’s where the BAGSMART 37L Expandable Travel Backpack comes in to save the day.
This backpack feels thoughtfully designed from the moment you pick it up. It’s lightweight but durable, with a sturdy polyester exterior that looks sleek yet rugged.
The size is airline-approved, fitting comfortably in overhead compartments and under seats, which means no more last-minute gate stress.
The real game-changer is the expandable capacity. With a simple unzip, you can go from a 25L to a full 40L, making it perfect for short trips or longer stays.
I found the lie-flat opening especially handy for quick security checks—no fumbling, just unzip and go.
Organization is a breeze with the included packing cubes and shoe bag. The different sizes kept my clothes tidy, and the shoe bag doubled as a laundry bag, which was super convenient.
Plus, the elastic band inside compresses clothes to maximize space, so I could pack more without feeling cramped.
Comfort-wise, the airflow back design and padded straps made carrying it easy, even on longer walks or hikes. The chest buckle helped stabilize the load, so I didn’t feel any strain.
It’s versatile enough to serve as a college, work, or outdoor bag, making it a real all-rounder for various needs.
Overall, this backpack packs a punch—affordable, practical, and surprisingly spacious. It handled everything I threw at it during my trips without sacrificing style or function.