Family days out are made more enjoyable and stress-free when you have the right backpack to carry all the essentials you need for a fun and comfortable time. No matter if you’re going to the park, beach, or just strolling around the streets, a backpack that caters to the specific needs of families is crucial to make your day enjoyable.
After thorough research and testing, we have carefully selected the top backpacks that will make family days out a breeze, keeping you focused on creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
Best Backpacks for Family Days Out
Discover our top picks for the best backpacks, perfect for family outings and adventures. These backpacks combine comfort, functionality, and style to make your day trips enjoyable and hassle-free.
ARMYCAMO Outdoor 3 Day Expandable Backpack
This expandable backpack from ARMYCAMO provides ample organization and comfort for family days out.
Pros
- 39 to 64-liter expandable capacity
- Water-resistant materials
- Multiple compartments for organization
Cons
- Hydration bladder not included
- Limited color options
- Some might prefer more pockets
The ARMYCAMO Outdoor 3 Day Expandable Backpack has a versatile design that makes it ideal for various backpack situations, such as family days out, hiking, or even as a bug out bag. The backpack’s expandable capacity, ranging from 39 to 64 liters, means you can easily adjust it to accommodate your family’s belongings and necessities for outings.
Made from tear-resistant 600 denier polyester, this backpack features water-resistant materials that help keep your gear dry during unexpected weather changes. Moreover, the pack offers multiple compartments to organize and store your belongings, ensuring that everything stays secure and in its place for easy access.
One downside is that the backpack does not come with a hydration bladder for the 3-liter bladder compartment. However, it is compatible with other brands, so purchasing one separately should not be a major issue. Additionally, color options are limited, which may not matter to some users. Some might prefer more pockets for added organization, but with its large main compartment, ample storage is still available.
Overall, the ARMYCAMO Outdoor 3 Day Expandable Backpack is a great option for families looking to invest in a durable and versatile backpack for days out. With good organization capacity, water resistance, and an adjustable size, this backpack offers convenience and comfort that makes it a reliable choice for your outdoor adventures.
Oakley Men’s Kitchen Sink Backpack
The Oakley Men’s Kitchen Sink Backpack is a versatile and heavy-duty option perfect for family outings and extended trips.
Pros
- Spacious storage with a laptop sleeve and multiple pockets
- Durable, abrasion-resistant fabric
- Comfortable padded back panel and adjustable mesh-lined shoulder straps
Cons
- May be too large for some users
- A bit on the pricey side
- Bottom shoe compartment might be unnecessary for some
The Oakley Men’s Kitchen Sink Backpack truly lives up to its name when it comes to storage and functionality. I recently took this backpack on a family day trip and was impressed by the ability to comfortably stow my 17-inch laptop and organize essential items in various pockets and compartments. The separate shoe compartment on the bottom was especially useful for stashing muddy sneakers after a long hike.
During the day, I often found myself easily accessing the brushed media pocket to grab my phone or headphones. The front organizer panel and mesh optics pocket were great for smaller items, while the side water bottle pocket was specifically utilized during those hiking breaks for quick hydration. The compression-molded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps made carrying the load across different terrains both comfortable and convenient.
However, I must say that the size of the bag might be a bit too large for some users. The backpack was quite roomy, which was perfect for our family day trip, but may prove excessive for those seeking a more compact option. The price tag on this Oakley backpack is also relatively steep for those on a budget. Additionally, the shoe compartment, although useful for me, might not be a necessary feature for all users.
In conclusion, the Oakley Men’s Kitchen Sink Backpack is an excellent choice for those in need of a versatile, spacious, and comfortable bag for family outings or extended excursions. While it may not be the most affordable or compact option, its impressive storage capabilities and durable construction make it an investment that will serve you well on any family adventure.
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L
This tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L is an excellent choice for family days out, providing ample space, durability, and comfort all in one backpack.
Pros
- Large capacity and organized design
- TSA friendly and flight approved
- Made of environmentally friendly, durable recycled fabric
Cons
- Might be too large for some users
- Water resistance could be improved
- Price may be higher than other backpacks
The tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L boasts a spacious and organized design, capable of accommodating all your family essentials for a day out. The backpack features three spacious compartments: a quick-access main compartment for clothes and toiletries, a tech storage for laptops and tablets, and a front pocket for travel essentials. Its multiple pockets ensure that you stay organized and ready to go.
Convenience is at the heart of this backpack’s practicality. With the ability to open the laptop compartment 90°-180° for hassle-free security scans, it is TSA friendly and flight approved. The backpack’s size also meets IATA requirements, making it ideal for air travel. The environmentally conscious will appreciate the use of premium quality YKK zippers and durable recycled fabric, made of 100% post-consumer material from PET plastic bottles.
Lastly, the tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L is designed with comfort in mind. Its 3D padded back panel and contoured thick shoulder straps provide superior ergonomics for users. The adjustable chest strap helps to transfer weight off your shoulders, ensuring comfort during your family day trips. Additionally, the luggage pass-through strap at the back provides added convenience for travelers.
However, it’s worth mentioning that due to its size and capacity, this backpack might be considered too large for some users. Some may also feel that the water resistance should be improved, especially when storing laptops or other electronics. The price of this backpack may be higher than other options on the market, but the features and durability offered could justify the investment.
In conclusion, the tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L is a fantastic option for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and reliable backpack for their days out. Its TSA friendliness and flight approval also make it a solid choice for frequent travelers. Despite minor drawbacks, this backpack is worth considering for its quality and practicality.
SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA 17-Inch Laptop Backpack
This SwissGear 1900 Scansmart backpack is a top choice for family days out, offering ample storage, convenience, and comfort.
Pros
- TSA-friendly laptop compartment
- Spacious with multiple pockets for organization
- Comfortable and adjustable straps
Cons
- Might be bulky for smaller individuals
- Limited color options
- Heavy when fully packed
The SwissGear 1900 Scansmart backpack is perfect for family outings, where you need to carry a variety of items without compromising on comfort. I recently used it for a day trip with my family, and it exceeded my expectations.
Thanks to its spacious main compartment, I was able to fit everything from snacks to toys for the kids. The multiple pockets, including a dedicated TabletSafe pocket and RFID-protected organizer compartment, made organizing our belongings effortless. I also appreciated the side pockets for water bottles and umbrellas, ensuring we were prepared for any weather.
SwissGear’s 1900 Scansmart backpack truly stood out for its comfort during our excursion. The heavily padded back panel with Airflow ventilation technology, along with padded contour-shaped shoulder straps and built-in suspension, made carrying the backpack a breeze. The adjustable side compression straps helped distribute the weight evenly, allowing me to carry the backpack for extended periods without any discomfort.
The only drawbacks I found during our day out were the limited color options, the slight bulkiness when fully packed, and the additional weight it can have when filled. However, these are minor concerns, considering the backpack’s overall qualities and performance.
In conclusion, the SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA 17-Inch Laptop Backpack is an excellent choice for family days out. Its thoughtful design, ample storage, organization, and comfort make it a reliable companion for families on the go. Click here to check it out.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best backpack for family days out, there are several factors to consider. In this buying guide, we outline key features to look for to ensure you make the right choice.
A good backpack for family days out should not only have ample space for items like snacks, clothing, gadgets, and personal care items but also offer numerous compartments, as well as a durable and easy-to-clean material. Comfort and portability are also key, as no one wants to be weighed down by an uncomfortable bag as they adventure through a new destination with their loved ones.
When selecting the perfect backpack to suit your family’s needs for outdoor adventures, the critical factors to pay attention to include the size, comfort, durability, material, and organization capabilities. Ensuring your backpack meets these criteria will create a more enjoyable and hassle-free experience for your entire family.
Capacity
One of the most important aspects to consider is the backpack’s capacity. For family outings, you may need to carry various items such as snacks, water bottles, extra clothing, and entertainment essentials. A backpack with a capacity of 20-35 liters should suffice for a day trip.
Material
The backpack’s material greatly affects its durability and weather resistance. Look for materials like nylon or polyester, as they offer a good balance between durability, weight, and weather-resistance. For added protection, consider a backpack with a water-resistant coating or a rain cover.
Comfort
Comfort is crucial, especially when carrying the backpack for extended periods. Look for features such as:
- Padded shoulder straps: Ensure they are adjustable and made from breathable material.
- Ventilated back panel: Helps to keep your back cool and reduce sweating.
- Hip belt and sternum strap: Distribute the backpack’s weight evenly and provide additional support.
Organization
A well-organized backpack makes accessing items quicker and easier. Some features to look for include:
- Multiple compartments: Allows for better organization and separation of items.
- Exterior pockets: Provide easy access to frequently used items like water bottles or maps.
- Internal pockets or dividers: Help keep smaller items secure and easy to find.
Additional Features
Some extra features can make family days out more convenient and enjoyable:
- Hydration compatibility: Allows for the use of a hydration bladder, making it easier to stay hydrated.
- Attachment points: Useful for securing external items like walking poles or a rolled-up blanket.
- Reflective features: Enhance visibility in low light situations, adding an extra layer of safety.
Taking these factors into account, you’ll be better equipped to choose the best backpack for your family outings. Remember, the ideal backpack will depend on your specific needs, so prioritize features that are most important for you and your family.