Backpack Buying Guide: Daypack vs Travelpack
By Eastpak Official Store | Built To Resist | 30 Year Warranty | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Buying Guides
Not sure whether to buy a daypack or a travelpack? This guide breaks down the key differences in size, features, and use cases so you can choose the right Eastpak backpack for your routine.
Quick answer
Choose a daypack like the Tecum F Cnnct F Matte Fig when you need a streamlined bag for daily commutes or school. Pick a travelpack like the Travelpack Superman Patch when you want one bag that works for short trips, gym sessions, and everyday carry. The main difference comes down to capacity and how you plan to carry it.
What sets a daypack apart from a travelpack
A daypack is designed for lighter loads and shorter carry times. It typically has a single main compartment, a padded laptop sleeve, and a few organizer pockets. Daypacks usually sit around 20 to 30 liters and are slim enough to wear comfortably on crowded buses or between classes.
A travelpack, on the other hand, offers more volume and versatility. Many travelpacks are 2-in-1 designs that can switch between backpack and duffle carry modes. They often include two main compartments, multiple zippered pockets, and a larger laptop sleeve. The extra space makes them suitable for weekend trips or days when you need to carry a change of clothes, lunch, and tech gear.
The tradeoff is simple: daypacks are lighter and more compact for daily use, while travelpacks give you room to pack for more than just a standard work or school day.
How to choose based on your routine
If your bag mostly carries a laptop, a notebook, a water bottle, and a few small accessories, a daypack is likely the better fit. It keeps the weight down and makes navigating tight spaces easier. Look for a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for all-day comfort.
If you regularly combine work or school with a workout, a quick overnight trip, or carrying bulky items, a travelpack gives you the flexibility you need. The extra compartments help separate dirty clothes from your laptop, and the larger capacity means you won't have to force a jacket into an already full bag.
Laptop storage and organization
Both daypacks and travelpacks typically include a dedicated laptop sleeve, but the size and padding can vary. A daypack usually fits a 15- or 16-inch laptop with a slim sleeve that keeps the device snug against your back. A travelpack often has a larger sleeve that can accommodate a 17-inch laptop and may include extra padding for protection during travel.
Organization also differs. Daypacks tend to have a front pocket with a few pen slots and a key clip. Travelpacks often add a built-in organizer with multiple compartments, making it easier to find chargers, passports, and small items without digging through the main compartment.
How to decide: daypack or travelpack
- Check your daily load: List what you carry every day. If it fits in a 20–30 liter bag with one main compartment, a daypack is enough. If you need room for extra clothes, shoes, or a second device, go for a travelpack. Daypack for light daily carry; travelpack for mixed-use loads.
- Consider how you'll carry it: A daypack is always worn as a backpack. A travelpack often doubles as a duffle bag, which can be easier to grab from an overhead bin or car trunk. Decide if the 2-in-1 versatility matters to you. Travelpack if you want carry-mode flexibility; daypack if you only need backpack mode.
- Match the laptop sleeve to your device: Measure your laptop before you buy. Daypacks typically fit up to 16 inches. Travelpacks may fit larger devices up to 17 inches. A snug sleeve protects better than an oversized one. Check sleeve dimensions against your laptop size before purchasing.
Product facts at a glance
- TECUM F CNNCT F MATTE FIG: Our premium CNNCT collection for urban professionals offers sleek commuting solutions. This streamlined backpack features a dedicated 16" laptop sleeve, convenient side bottle holder and practical organizer for effortless organization. This is a true daypack: compact, organized, and built for daily carry. The dedicated 16" laptop sleeve and side bottle holder cover the essentials without adding bulk.
- TRAVELPACK SUPERMAN PATCH: Our 2-in-1 travel bag can be carried as a backpack or duffle bag, featuring a built-in laptop sleeve to protect your tech on the go. Two main compartments with a zippered front pocket. 42L capacity. This travelpack gives you the flexibility to switch carry modes and pack 42 liters of gear. The two main compartments let you separate clothes from electronics, making it a strong choice for overnight trips or gym-to-office days.
Which one fits you?
Best for
- Daily commuters and students who carry a laptop, books, and a water bottle
- Travelers who want one bag that works for short trips and everyday use
Not for
- Minimalists who only carry a tablet and a wallet — a small crossbody or shoulder bag would be lighter
- Long-haul travelers who need a wheeled suitcase with a TSA lock and smooth-rolling wheels
