10 Best backpacks that open like a suitcase
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.
If you are looking for the best backpacks that open like a suitcase then we have got you covered. Choosing the right backpack is one of the most important things you can do before planning your holiday. However it can be confusing to pick the right backpack especially one that opens like a suitcase, luckily we have done all the hard work for you and researched and reviewed the 10 best backpacks that open like a suitcase.
These backpacks are known as ‘front loading backpacks’ they essentially have the same features of a typical backpack featuring carry on straps, back support, side and front pockets but when you open it up, its like opening a suitcase. There are many advantages to this type of backpack, and in this guide we will provide you with everything you need to know.
Quick Answer: Here are our top 3 backpacks that open like a suitcase:
10 Best Backpacks that open like a suitcase
If you are looking for the best backpacks that opens like a suitcase, then we have hand picked and reviewed the best front loading backpacks to buy for 2018. Note: all of the backpacks reviewed open like a suitcase
Simply click on the product for more information and to check prices below:
| Product details | Image | |
|---|---|---|
Cotopaxi Nazca 24L |   | |
Osprey Farpoint |   | |
Fjallraven - Splitpack
|   | |
High Sierra AT3 Carry-On |   | |
Hypath Travel 2-in-1 |   | |
Standard Luggage Co |   | |
Cabin Max Metz Backpack
|   | |
Timbuk2 Men's Wander Pack
|   | |
ArcEnCiel Outdoor |   | |
Hynes Eagle Travel Backpack
|   |
Front loading backpacks review
If you are still unsure of what are the best backpacks that open like a suitcase, then carry on reading our front loading backpack review and buyers guide. We have hand picked and selected the best backpacks on the market. Simply click on the links below for more information and latest prices:
Cotopaxi Nazca 24L Backpack & Suitcase
The Cotopaxi Nazca 24L Backpack offers all the comforts and features of a backpack with the storage of a suitcase. The backpacks suitcase style design features large internal mesh storage compartments as well as a padding laptop sleeve. This backpack also features fucked away straps and a removable sling strap so carrying versatility and a zipped front pocket, all allowing easy organisation of you clothes and travel gear. This backpack is perfect for travels abroad and will fit in the carry on restrictions for all airlines. So if you’re looking for a reliable, durable and stylish backpack that opens like a suitcase then this is an awesome choice. What’s amazing is these backpacks are designed and guaranteed to last 61 years, so you know you are getting a good quality product!
Osprey Farpoint 55 M/L Jasper-Red 55L
The Osprey Farpoint is one of the best backpacks around and has so many features. The first main feature of this backpack is that it opens like a suitcase for easy organisation and packing of your items. The second features is that it has a suspension system which features an internal frame, adjustable shoulder straps, padding hip belt and more, which are usually found on hiking backpacks, meaning you are more comfortable. This backpack is made from the highest quality materials and is constructed of durable 210 x 330D nylon and 420D nylon pack cloth fabrics. With Osprey you are sure to get a reliable, durable backpack that will last for years.
Fjallraven – Splitpack Backpack
The Fjallraven Splitpack Backpack is comfortable with padded shoulder straps and the padded back panel stops your contents from digging into your back. Made from durable G-1000 heavy duty polyester and organic cotton the Fjallraven provides the highest quality materials. The robust zipper opens up the backpack which splits into two compartments of the same size, like a suitcase does. You can easily separate your dirty and damp clothes from your clean ones. There are also three inside zippered mesh pockets for small items and two external pockets with zippers for added storage. This bag has large handles on all sides of the bag making it really easy to carry around.
High Sierra AT3 Carry-On Wheeled Backpack
The High Sierra AT3 Carry-On Wheeled Backpack is an awesome 3-in-1 travel bag. You can use it as a backpack, a wheeled bag similar to a suitcase or a day bag with carry handle. This multi-functional travel bag will change the way you think about travel. The large main compartment opens like a suitcase and it also has a removable front backpack which is perfect for storing all your gadgets and accessories. It also features a headphone port so you can securely listen to your music on the go. It also has hidden padded straps which are stored behind the zippered back panel. This travel bag is awesome, I love the fact that you can use it as a backpack, an all in one, carry bag or a wheeled bag and the fact that you can detach the backpack too. Check it out for yourself on Amazon and check out the pictures.
Hypath Travel 2-in-1 Convertible Backpack
The Hypath Travel 2-in-1 Convertible Backpack has the ability to be used in a whopping 8 different formats offering you the most flexibility for traveling. It offers maximum versatility by allowing users to use the bag as a rolling wheeled carry on, backpack, duffle luggage or numerous multiple combinations. This bag has the maximum allowed dimensions allowed to use for carry on and will fit perfectly in the overhead compartment of a plane. The smaller detachable bag will fit easily under the passenger seat and is ideal for your travel gadgets, laptop and accessories. The Hypath bag was designed for travelers for travelers and is ideal for travellers who want to be able to carry the maximum amount of luggage, with the maximum amount of easy, while avoiding paying extra baggage fees.
Standard Luggage Co Travel Backpack
The Standard Luggage Co Travel Backpack is perfect for international travel and fits within airline cabin rules and regulations. This 3-in-1 travel backpack also transforms into a suitcase, carry bag and shoulder bag. It opens up like a suitcase so you can easily organise and access all your contents and features built in compression straps to maximise space and keeps everything secure. There is a dedicated laptop pocket, two front pockets, built in safety whistle and so many more awesome features. This bag is water resistant, easy to clean and a great choice if you are looking for the best backpacks that opens like a suitcase.
Cabin Max Metz Backpack Flight Approved Carry on Bag
The Cabin Max Metz Backpack is a flight approved hand luggage designed to make the most of your maximum carry on luggage allowance and opens similar to a suitcase. This durable and lightweight travel backpack has a padded back and features 3 main zipped compartments, 2 zipped internal compartments, adjustable straps, carry handles and adjustable side straps. This water resistant backpack is made from 600D nylon material comes has a huge selection of awesome designs, colours and has great reviews on Amazon. Includes a 100% money back guarantee and a one year limited warranty.
Timbuk2 Men’s Wander Pack
The Timbuk2 Men’s Wander Pack is a front loading backpack, meaning it opens up like a suitcase allowing you to pack and access your clothes with ease. It features water resistant 420D ripstop nylon, padding laptop compartment, top zip compartment with mesh pocket, adjustable straps and top/side handles. This backpack is extremely spacious so don’t worry about any packing issues, this bag will have you covered. High quality, durable, lightweight and a great stylish design this backpack is a great choice for weekends away and international travel.
ArcEnCiel Outdoor Tactical Army Backpack
The ArcEnCiel Backpack is a high intensity military style specification and is made from 1000D scratch resistant material and can be used as a backpack, rucksack or satchel. The detachable shoulder strap can easily turn the backpack into a messenger bag, cross body bag, mail bag or shoulder bag. One type of bag can be used in 3 different ways of carrying and as a large 60L capacity. The bag has many zippered pockets both internally and externally and the main inside compartment is divided into multiple sections and opens like a suitcase for easy storage of clothes and travel gadgets. This bag is perfect for hiking, camping, sports and international travel. The best backpacks that open like a suitcase need to be durable, lightweight and have lots of compartments and pockets for storage, and this certainly ticks all the boxes.
Hynes Eagle Travel Backpack
The Hynes Eagle Travel Backpack converts into a duffle bag in seconds and is made from premium quality polyester. It opens up like a regular suitcase and comes with a 3 piece set of packing cubes offering even more organisation and maximum storage. It offers a large capacity to store everything from clothes, travel gadgets and your laptop. It features 1 front zipper compartment for smaller items, 1 middle compartment for a laptop and finally a back compartment for all your clothes.
What are front loading backpacks?
Should I buy a front loading backpack?
It really depends on your travel needs. If you are traveling with lots of luggage and want easy access to your items then I would recommend a front loading backpack. You can easily access your contents in comparison to the top loading backpacks where you have to dig and route through everything.
Make sure you do a trial run and test packing and unpacking, also keep the tags on. Then if its not to your taste then you can return the item for a refund or exchange.
What are the best backpacks that open like a suitcase?
With so much choice out there it can be hard to find the best backpacks that open like a suitcase. You have to consider everything from quality, storage compartments, additional pockets, if it’s lightweight and also the design. With all that in mind, we recommend the Fjallraven Splitpack.
Advantages of front loading backpacks
When looking for the best front loading backpacks to buy there are a number of things to take into consideration: –
1. Easier to pack/unpack
With your backpack opening like a suitcase It means you have a bigger area to pack your things and makes getting things in and out a breeze. Front loading backpacks are a lot easier to pack and unpack than top loading backpacks. You can separate everything into your own easy accessible compartments.
2. More secure
Front loading backpacks have zippers that go all the way around your bag, making your contents more secure as you can add a pack lock to both zips. With most top loading backpacks you can’t do this and there is a chance that items could fall out if you over pack slightly.
3. Better shape
Front loading backpacks tend to be a little shorter and a bit wider than top loading backpacks. The weight is distributed a bit better and therefore a little easier to carry.
4. More sturdier
The front loading backpacks tend to be made of a much tougher materials than top loading backpacks. Front loading backpacks tend to have more inside padding and protection around the main compartment, similar to that of a suitcase.
What to look for in a good backpack
Here are some more benefits that of getting a backpack that opens like a suitcase:
1. Multiple compartments
Look out for backpacks with multiple compartments and zipped pockets. This way you can organise your case easier and put things in their own compartments making your gear easy to find on the go. The smaller zipped pockets can be used to hold your documents and money, as you can padlock the two zips together.
2. Water resistant material
It’s always a good idea to get a water resistant backpack to keep all your clothes and electronics dry when you are on the go. This is a must if you are backpacking or hiking.
3. Multi-functional
Some of the backpacks on offer above are multi-functional meaning they can be used differently for different travel scenarios. There are wheeled backpacks, backpacks with multiple carry handles, 3-in-1 backpacks and many more, all opening like your traditional suitcase. So getting a backpack that is multi-functional is a good idea if it’s something you would make use of.
4. Durable & High Quality
Ensure that your backpack is made from the highest quality ripstop nylon or equivalent. This way your back is less likely to get damaged at the airport or traveling.
5. Comfort
Its always important to get a backpack that is comfortable, so look for for padded straps, padded back support and harnesses which help ease the weight load and support you better.
6. Size & Capacity
Choose a size that is right for you, think about where you are going, how long you are going for etc. Don’t overpack for the sake of it, you will only be weighed down.
6. Style & Design
It goes without saying really, everyone wants something that looks the part as well. There is a wide selection of different designs, colours and styles to choose from, so there is a backpack that suits everyones taste.
Where to buy backpacks that open like a suitcase
The best place to buy a front loading backpacks is Amazon, they have a wide selection offering an array of different brands, styles and designs so there is guaranteed to be something to match anyones taste, multi-purpose backpacks, 3-in-1, backpacks with wheels and many more.
Amazon have a very good customer support should you have any problems regards refunds and not to mention how easy it is to use and order. You can see the full range of backpacks and front loading backpacks on Amazon here.
Thanks for reading our guide on the best backpacks that open like a suitcase, also known as front loading backpacks. You can rest assured that you can now travel more organised and take comfort in the fact knowing packing and unpacking will be a breeze.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you,
we earn a small commission if you make a purchase.
Read more
- Our Stay at The Marriott Regents Park London - December 1, 2020
- Marriott County Hall London Review - November 2, 2020
- Road Trip to the Cotswolds With Collins Books - July 24, 2020