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Best Kids Travel Backpacks and Luggage

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If you are wondering what the best kids travel backpacks and luggage are, then this guide will help you:

  • Find the best kids travel backpack which works for your needs.
  • Learn which ones are more novelty backpacks for younger kids and which are the best practical backpacks.
  • Compare features of various styles of backpacks from ride-on suitcases, rolling luggage, backpacks with reins, scooter-type cases, and more.
  • Discover the pros and cons of each type of travel backpack, with real parents’ opinions.
Best Kids Travel Backpacks and Luggage

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There is a laundry list of to-do items when traveling with a family; having the right backpacks and luggage for your kids should be one of the easiest to check off. You want something durable, spacious, lightweight, and easy to organize. 

With so many options, narrowing the choices to the perfect kids’ travel backpack or luggage might be challenging. Luckily, the work has been done for you; keep reading to discover our top picks for the best kids’ travel backpacks and luggage for any family flying with kids.

The Benefits of Getting Kids Their Own Travel Backpacks and Luggage

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When you’re traveling, having extra luggage might seem cumbersome or costly. With kids, the temptation might be to pack their things in your luggage or have one large piece of luggage for all the children to share. If you’ve seen kids travel backpacks and luggage for sale, you might have wondered what the benefits would be for children to have their own luggage.

Kids having their own backpacks and luggage to pack and carry for a trip gives them a sense of ownership and control. It’s an opportunity to learn decision-making when selecting what will be packed in the luggage. This kind of responsibility and participation can amplify the excitement of traveling for kids. 

It also helps parents stay more organized by separating belongings by family members and relieves some stress by having each child be responsible for their own luggage.

In a hurry? (For full reviews scroll further)

See our top pick for the Best Travel Backpack for Toddlers:

We also loved: The Yodo Kids Insulated Toddler Backpack with Harness Lunch Bag, helps to keep their snacks cool and stores their favorite toys too.

See our top pick for the Best Travel Backpack for ages 4 and above: Stephen Joseph Classic Rolling Luggage – with 19 colourful options, this is reasonably priced and practical too.

See our top pick for the Best Travel Backpack for older kids and tweens. The Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack is a populat backpack. It has a decent capacity, reasonably priced and it fits it all the essentials such as a laptop or tablet. There are 52 colors to choose from.

Key Features When Looking for a Travel Backpack for Toddlers to Tweens!

Different types of kids backpacks are useful as they grow up. From young toddlers who may need a backpack with reins for safety, which also fits their favorite toy, to a more substantial backpack for a preschooler needing to be entertained on a long haul flight and for tweens who usually want to pack tech gadgets and fidget toys when travelling.

Kids may need their backpacks to be sturdier for a camping or hiking trip: to save money, a good all-rounder which meets all requirements is ideal.

There are several different types of backpacks and travel luggage for kids, depending on their age.

The main features to look for in all age groups are:

Size & Weight

Strong material/Durability: The material needs to be tough and any zippers are good quality that won’t break after a couple of uses.

Comfort: Good padding, decent straps, and easy for an adult to use if/when the child is tired of carrying it!

flyte scooters at the airport are good travel gifts for kids
Zinc Flyte scooter suitcases

Key Features When Looking for a Kids Travel Backpack for Toddlers & Preschoolers

Toddlers may like the novelty of wearing a lightweight character type backpack and also be attracted to ride on luggage like Zinc Flyte or the similar KiddieTotes or ride on Trunki. They are fun and useful at times for connecting flights (so handy at Changi Airport Singapore pictured above) BUT, the parents always end up carrying them at some point.

Weighing up whether a ride on or scooter suitcase is worth it for most of the trip is individual to each family. We’ve tried both, and decided a backpack is the easiest for everyone as a general rule – but that comes with a caveat saying the ride-on luggage was useful at certain ages!

Trunki suitcase check in
Trunki suitcase

Best Kids Travel Backpack and Luggage For Toddlers

ImageLuggage BrandPriceAge (Weight limit if applicable)FeaturesWeight/Dimensions
1. Munchkin Brica By MySide Safety Harness Backpack with Leash Owl $For toddlers3 feet long tether strap‎4 x 7 x 11 inches
2. Yodo Kids Insulated Toddler Backpack with Harness Lunch Bag$Ages 18-36m3 in one backpack, lunch bag, and safety harnessL8.5 x W4.5 x H10.5 inch
3. DB Dinosaur Toddler mini backpack with leash$Age 12-24m detachable leash18cmx11cmx26cm (7.09 inx4.33inx10.24in
4. Skip Hop Toddler Back Pack For toddlers – age 4Mesh pocket and padded straps11l x 5w x 12
5. Trunki Kids Ride On Suitcase$$Age 3+ years/  maximum weight of 50kg. Multi-functional strap, a seat, lockable latches, 4.44 lbs/
6. American Tourister Kids’ Disney Hardside Upright Luggage$$Aged 3 and abovefully lined interior, crisscross tie-down straps, zip-around divider4 lbs/ 8 x 13 x 18 inches

1. Munchkin Brica By MySide Safety Harness Backpack with Leash Owl

This backpack is perfect for little ones who want to be grown up – but you can still keep a close eye on them with the 3ft long tether strap. The backpack has an adjustable harness to avoid it from slipping off.

The chest strap expands as your child grows. Storage-wise, it’s small but you can fit some diapers/nappies and wipes or a few more toys if needed. A huge bonus is it’s appealing to kids as it doesn’t look like a restraint.

The outer mesh pockets can fit a sippy cup and a larger special toy in the front if needed.

Features/Measurements

  • Adjustable chest strap
  • 3 family travel tether strap
  • Measures ‎4 x 7 x 11 inches

Pros of the Munchkin Brica Harness Backpack

  • Easy to use
  • Adjustable features

Cons of the Munchkin Brica Harness Backpack

  • Can’t carry much.

2. Yodo Kids Insulated Toddler Backpack with Harness Lunch Bag

The Yodo Kids is a toddler backpack, safety harness, and lunch bag in one. Toddlers love their snacks so this way they can help carry a few snacks, lunch, or some toys.

This toddler bag can also be used as a replacement diaper bag for a backup of emergency clothes, wipes, and snacks. The versatility of it means you can easily pack toys for a plane ride and then use it during your trip as a lunch bag.

Features/Measurements

  • Measures 18cmx11cmx26cm
  • Detachable tether/leash

Pros of the Yodo Kids

  • Adjustable padded straps
  • detachable leash

Cons of the Yodo Kids

  • Can’t pack lots inside

3. DB Dinosaur Toddler mini backpack with leash

Features/Measurements

  • front pouch and side mesh storage.
  • Measures ‎11l x 5w x 12″

Pros of the Skip Hop Toddler Back Pack

  • Fun dinosaur theme.

Cons of the Skip Hop Backpack

  • Small storage and too small for those over 2.
  • The chest clip is not adjustable

4. Skip Hop Toddler Back Pack

This fun animal backpack comes in a range of 8 different characters to appeal to little ones. Storage-wise, the front pouch is ideal for snacks and includes extra pockets for pencils and other travel necessities.

There is a mesh pocket on the side too for a sippy cup and room inside the back for changing essentials and a few toys. This backpack comes with padded straps for comfort.

Features/Measurements

  • front pouch and side mesh storage.
  • Measures ‎11l x 5w x 12″

Pros of the Skip Hop Toddler Back Pack

  • Adjustable padded straps

Cons of the Skip Hop Backpack

  • Can’t fit larger items in eg some tablets with cases will not fit.

Best Kids Travel BackPack and Luggage for Ages 3, 4, and above

ImageLuggage BrandPriceAge (Weight limit if applicable)FeaturesWeight/Dimensions
5. Kiddietotes Hard Ride Scooter Ride-On$$$For ages 4+. 110 lbs weight limit. Lightweight construction and easy turning with a smooth, leaning motion 9.58lbs/
8 x 13.5 x 19.5″
6. Trunki Kids Ride On Suitcase $$Age 3+ years/  maximum weight of 50kg.multi-functional strap, a seat, lockable latches, 4.44 lbs/
7. Stephen Joseph Classic Rolling Luggage$$Suitable up to age 8 depending on heightzipper closures, front and side pockets, adjustable handle, two rolling wheels14. 5″x 18″x 6. 5″
8. American Tourister Kids’ Disney Hardside Upright Luggage$$Aged 3 and abovefully lined interior, crisscross tie-down straps, zip-around divider4 lbs/ 8 x 13 x 18 inches
9. American Tourister Kids’ Disney Softside Upright Luggage$$Aged 3 and abovefully lined interior, crisscross tie-down straps, zip-around divider, push-button handle, in-line wheels3.86 lbs/ 19.48 x 13.18″ x 7.87″
10. Wildkin Kids Overnight Duffle Bag$$4-15 years oldtwo attached carrying handles, removable padded shoulder straps5.3 ounces/5.3 ounces/18 x 9 x 9 inches

5. Kiddietotes Hard Shell Ride Scooter Ride-On

The Kiddietotes Hard Shell Ride Scooter Ride-On is not only a handy travel case for kids but is also a 3-wheel scooter for kids 4 years and older who weigh up to 110 lbs. The wheels even light up!

It meets TSA guidelines for carry-on luggage and will fit in the overhead airplane bins. At 9.58 pounds, it’s our heaviest bag, which is good to know in case you end up carrying it.

Features/Measurements

  • Measures 8 x 13.5 x 19.5 inches
  • 3-wheel scooter function.

Pros of the Kiddietotes Hard Shell Ride Scooter

  • The size of the rolling luggage is comparable with other kids’ luggage at 19.5 inches. 
  • 5 designs to choose from
  • Easy to use – just lean to turn and change direction.

Cons of the Kidditotes Scooter

  • The size of this hard shell scooter may be too small for longer trips – it can fit about 3 days worth of clothes.
  • If a child isn’t confident in leaning to turn, they may have difficulties steering the scooter.

6. Trunki Kids’ Ride-On Suitcase

The Trunki Kids’ Ride On Suitcase is multi-functional. Not only does it offer some visual stimulus for your child to be entertained, but it also features a design on wheels and a multi-purpose strap to tow your exhausted child as they sit on the luggage and enjoy the ride.

Trunki ride ons are suitable for kids aged 3 and above up to a maximum weight of 50kg.

Features/Measurements

  • Measures 17.5 x 8 x 12.2 inches
  • Small pockets inside
  • Adjustable strap to carry or pull along

Pros of the Trunki Kids’ Ride-On Suitcase

  • The size of the rolling luggage is comparable with other kids’ luggage at 17.5 inches. 
  • Eight multi-color designs are available with free returns. 
  • Younger kids love being pulled along or whizzing themselves around.

Cons of the Trunki Kids’ Ride-On Suitcase

  • The size of the Trunki Ride-On Suitcase may be too small for trips or overnight stays.
  • The ride-on feature may be too dangerous for smaller children.
  • Parents are likely to carry this at some point.

7. Stephen Joseph Classic Rolling Luggage

The Stephen Joseph Classic Rolling Luggage is Amazon’s current choice for kids’ travel luggage. This piece of luggage is 18 inches, which means it’s easy to manage and perfect as a carry-on. You can better organize your kid’s travel items with multiple pockets and zipper closures.  The handle is extendable for taller kids.

Features/Measurements

  • Zipper pockets and extendable handle
  • No water-resistant coating
  • Measures 14. 5″x 18″x 6. 5″

Pros of the Stephen Joseph Classic Rolling Luggage

  • This classic rolling luggage is sturdy with its exterior hardware, including a handle that locks at two different heights and back wheels. 
  • It’s also durable, made from a polyester fiber that is built to last. 
  • This bag has 5,000+ reviews on Amazon and is rated at over four stars. 
  • There are 19 stylish multi-colored designs with free returns. 

Cons of the Stephen Joseph Classic Rolling Luggage

  • This product is smaller than others on the list and may be ideal for smaller children.
  • One large open pocket doesn’t allow for much organization

8. American Tourister Kids’ Disney Hardside Upright Luggage

The American Tourister Kids’ Disney Hardside Upright Luggage featuring Mickey Mouse is a must for Disney fans. There are two different size options with this rolling luggage, 16 or 18 inches, both meeting the size restrictions for domestic travel.

This luggage has a few key features, including a mesh divider to differentiate compartments, cross straps to secure items in the luggage, and side-mounted wheels so the bag won’t weigh heavy on your child’s arm or shoulder. 

Features/Measurements

  • Protective hardshell casing
  • Water-resistant construction
  • Measures 20.0″ x 15.0″ x 10.0

Pros of the American Tourister Kids’ Disney Hardside Upright Luggage

  • American Tourister products come with a ten-year limited warranty to protect the customer from any defects in workmanship or materials. 
  • This multi-design luggage has 5,000+ reviews on Amazon with a perfect 5-star rating. 

Cons of the American Tourister Kids’ Disney Hardside Upright Luggage

  • Prices vary for other Disney designs. 
  • A weight of 4.5 pounds may be too heavy for some smaller children.

9. American Tourister Kids’ Disney Softside Upright Luggage

The American Tourister Kids’ Disney Softside Upright Luggage featuring various Disney princesses is Amazon’s Choice for kids’ luggage. Similar to other American Tourist kid’s luggage, this bag features cross straps, in-line wheels, which means the luggage rolls upright, and a large mesh pocket for added storage. At 18 inches, it meets carry-on size restrictions. 

Features/Measurements

  • Two mesh side pockets for extra storage
  • No water-resistant coating
  • Measures 19.48″ x 13.18″ x 7.87″

Pros of the American Tourister Kids’ Disney Softside Upright Luggage

  • Like with any American Tourister product, this luggage comes with a ten-year limited warranty to protect the customer against defects in workmanship and materials. 
  • There are nearly 4,000 reviews on Amazon with a perfect 5-star rating.

Cons of the American Tourister Kids’ Disney Softside Upright Luggage

  • Prices vary for other Disney designs. 
  • A weight of 3.9 pounds may be too heavy for some smaller children.

Best Kids Travel Back Pack and Luggage for Tweens and Teens

ImageLuggage BrandPriceAge (Weight limit if applicable)FeaturesWeight/Dimensions
10. Wildkin Kids Overnight Duffle Bag$$4-15 years oldtwo attached carrying handles, removable padded shoulder straps5.3 ounces/18 x 9 x 9 inches
11. J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack$$handle extends
to 34 or 39 inches for kids & adults up to 6’3” tall.
Convertible wheeled backpack offers the load carrying ability of a rolling bag with wheels and the portability of a school backpack3.79 lbs/ 18 x 13 x 9 inches.
12. Jack Wolfskin Kids Little TRT$$for kids aged 6+Inspired by the success of the adults’ TRT series, a ‘tough, rough and technical’ day pack specially for children.14 x 12 x 1.3 inches / 15.2 oz
13. Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack$$25L capacityMultiple compartments including a front pocket with a key clip and hidden zipper, offering anti-theft protection7 x 11.25 x 19.5 inches / 2.07 pounds
14. Osprey Ace 38 Kids Backpack $$$for kids aged 5 to 11 yrs old4″ of torso length adjustability and an extendable Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt with 3″ of adjustment‎25 x 13 x 11 inches / 1.32 Kilograms

10. Wildkin Kids’ Overnighter Duffel Bags

Wildkin Kids’ Overnighter Duffel Bag is a great carry-on luggage for traveling and the perfect bag for a single night sleepover or a sporting practice. The spacious single-compartment interior allows kids to utilize as much room for items as possible.

The bag features two small straps for hand carrying and a long, adjustable crossbody strap to sling over the shoulder. With a variety of designs for younger kids, it also has some more grown-up options too.

Features/Measurements

  • Duffle style with shoulder strap
  • A water-resistant nylon interior
  • Measures 18 x 9 x 9 inches

Pros of the Wildkin Kids’ Overnighter Duffel Bags

  • The bag is made from 600-denier polyester fabric and a water-resistant nylon interior, so it’s durable and keeps items dry. 
  • The bag has 21 whimsical designs to suit any taste, has 2,000+ reviews on Amazon, and is rated over four stars. 

Cons of the Wildkin Kids’ Overnighter Duffel Bags

  • Duffle design may be difficult for small children to carry

11. J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack

The J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack is a convertible wheeled backpack measuring 18 inches with a large capacity for holding all your children’s clothing and accessories. The handle extends
to 34 or 39 inches for kids & adults up to 6’3” tall.

Though spacious, it’s still small enough to take as a carry-on and place in the plane’s overhead bin or under the seat. The rolling backpack is made for durability with a ripstop polyester fabric outer layer, a metal frame, a rubber base, and water resistant coating. 

If you’re looking for organization, the front zipper pocket of the rolling backpack has a spot for pens, cards, keys, and more.

Features/Measurements

  • Two mesh side pockets for extra storage
  • A water-resistant coating
  • Measures 18 x 13 x 9 inches

Pros of the J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack

  • This product has 8,000+ reviews on Amazon and is rated over four stars. 
  • You’ll have 44 designs and colors to choose from, with free returns. 
  • This product is durable and easily cleanable.
  • Handle extends to 34 or 39 inches for kids & adults up to 6’3” tall.

Cons of the J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack

  • At 18”, the J World Rolling Backpack may not be large enough for extended trips or weekend stays. 
  • The wheeled feature may be tricky for smaller children.

12. Jack Wolfskin Kids Little TRT

Multiple compartments including a front pocket with a key clip and hidden zipper, offering anti-theft protection. The front of the LITTLE TRT is equipped with versatile gear loops. The loops on the upper front pocket are stowable and have a retroreflective surface. The shoulder straps and zips are also equipped with reflectors for visability in the dark.

Features/Measurements

  • Measures 14 x 12 x 1.3 inches / 15.2 oz
  • Inspired by the success of the adults’ TRT series, a ‘tough, rough and technical’ day pack specially for children.

Pros of the Little TRT

  • Midrange price
  • Durable
  • Gear loops
  • Reflective surfaces

Cons of the Little TRT

  • Only 3 colour choices.

13. Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack

The Herschel Little America is a popular backpack for good reason. A decent capacity, reasonably priced and it fits it all the essentials such as a laptop or tablet. There are 52 colors to choose from. Other features include a front pocket with key clip and hidden zipper, offering anti-theft protection. Tech-safe sleeve is padded and lined with fleece, fits laptops up to 15”.

Features/Measurements

  • Measures 7 x 11.25 x 19.5 inches / 2.07 pounds
  • 25l capacity
  • front pocket with hidden zipper for additional security
  • Padded tech sleeve

Pros of the Herschel Little America

  • Midrange price
  • Durable
  • 52 colors to choose from
  • Fits laptops up to 15″

Cons of the Herschel Little America

  • Padding in straps can become weakened if continually carrying heavy items daily.

14. Osprey Ace 38 Kids Backpack

Offers the same quality build and feature set as adult packs, including dual side pockets, compression straps, an integrated raincover and internal reservoir sleeve.

Features/Measurements

  • 25 x 13 x 11 inches / 1.32 Kilograms

Pros of the Osprey Ace

  • Integrated removable raincover 
  • Durable
  • Adjustable and extendable
  • Daisy chain Attachment
  • Compression straps

Cons of the Osprey

  • Price

Overview of all the Kids Backpacks.

Best Kids Travel Backpacks & Luggage

Final Thoughts

With all these exciting choices, your child is sure to find something they love and want to travel with on all your family adventures. Each option has amazing features that will make traveling easy, organized, and fun. 

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