Even a short trip can benefit from packing an extra pair of shoes. Whether it’s switching to sandals at the beach after a hike or changing into gym shoes after work, having a spare pair is always a good idea. A Travel Backpack With Shoe Compartment offers a convenient solution, allowing you to carry your extra footwear without sacrificing space or cleanliness. These backpacks feature a dedicated compartment that separates your shoes from your clean clothes and electronics, keeping everything organized and hygienic.
We’ve rigorously tested numerous backpacks to identify the top performers with shoe compartments. Our evaluation process, spanning six months, involved assessing 70 different backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. Based on our hands-on testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best travel backpacks with shoe compartments available today.
Our Top Picks for Travel Backpacks with Shoe Compartments
- Best Overall: The North Face Never Stop Utility Pack at Amazon $139
Jump to Review - Best Carry-on: Nomatic Travel Bag at Amazon $290
Jump to Review - Best for Commuters: MinkeeBlue Nichet Backpack at Minkeeblue.com
Jump to Review - Best for the Gym: Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack at Amazon $53
Jump to Review - Best With Removable Pouch: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack at Dagnedover.com
Jump to Review - Best Budget: Matein Travel Backpack at Amazon $34
Jump to Review - Best Water-repellent: lululemon City Adventurer Backpack at Lululemon $128
Jump to Review
In-Depth Reviews of the Best Travel Backpacks with Shoe Compartments
Best Overall: The North Face Never Stop Utility Pack
## The North Face Never Stop Utility Pack
PHOTO: The North Face
$139 at Amazon View on The North Face $139 $104 at Dicks Sporting Goods
Why We Love It: This backpack excels in both aesthetics and functionality, making it suitable for diverse settings. Its exceptional organizational features are a major highlight.
What to Consider: The sternum strap could offer enhanced support for heavier loads.
The North Face Never Stop Utility Pack impressed us immensely during testing, emerging as a top contender. Its standout feature is the remarkable storage capacity and intuitive organization. It boasts a plethora of pockets, including felt-lined compartments for delicate items like electronics and sunglasses, a dedicated bottom shoe compartment, and various internal and external zipper and mesh pockets for smaller accessories. Dual water bottle pockets further enhance its practicality. The thoughtfully designed top handles, which snap together, provide a tote-style carrying option, and the backpack’s structure allows it to stand upright independently. A luggage pass-through sleeve adds travel convenience. While it includes a sternum strap, we noted it could be more robust for optimal support. Overall, this backpack offers a premium feel and appearance across various environments. Its water-resistant construction offers protection from light rain, and The North Face’s lifetime guarantee provides peace of mind. It’s available in four stylish colors: classic black, a brown logo print, gardenia white, and sage green.
The Details: 12 x 19 x 6 inches | 2 pounds | 26 liters | 70D recycled nylon with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish
Best Carry-on: Nomatic Travel Bag
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PHOTO: Nomatic
$290 at Amazon $284 at Walmart View on Nomatic.com
Why We Love It: The Nomatic Travel Bag stands out with its impressive volume and an abundance of pockets for meticulous organization.
What to Consider: The straps are quite rigid, which can affect carrying comfort, and the bag showed some scuff marks after handling during testing.
For travelers needing maximum packing space, the Nomatic Travel Bag is an excellent choice. It effortlessly accommodated our entire packing list with room to spare, suggesting it could easily hold enough clothing for a week-long trip. This bag goes above and beyond with not just one, but two shoe compartments, along with a dedicated laptop sleeve and numerous smaller pockets for accessories. A detachable hip belt and a laundry bag are included, enhancing both comfort and hygiene. The bag’s rectangular design simplifies packing and keeps folded clothes neatly organized. While the firm straps caused some discomfort during extended wear, the hip belt provided helpful weight distribution. We observed minor scuffing after simulated travel handling. However, the sleek black aesthetic and over 20 distinct features ensure a place for everything. Jamie Hergenrader, Commerce Director at Travel + Leisure, notes, “This backpack has been excellent for several months. Primarily used for two- to four-day trips, it’s perfect for long weekends and situations where rolling luggage is inconvenient.”
The Details: 9 x 21 x 14 inches | 3.42 pounds | 40 liters | Water-resistant tarpaulin (90 percent polyester, 10 percent nylon)
[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/carry-on-backpacks-nomatic-travel-bag-40l-Jhett-Thompson-12.jpg-59dfff2132864ef1967490b635a97874.jpg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/BWuQb4WRLMx4m_pVp8SAv16HCvQ=/fit-in/4480×4480/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/carry-on-backpacks-nomatic-travel-bag-40l-Jhett-Thompson-12.jpg-59dfff2132864ef1967490b635a97874.jpg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best for Commuters: MinkeeBlue Nichet Backpack
PHOTO: MinkeeBlue
View on Minkeeblue.com View on Com.au
Why We Love It: The MinkeeBlue Nichet Backpack is exceptionally versatile, accommodating lunch, shoes, and a laptop with ease, perfect for the multifaceted commuter.
What to Consider: Its size might be overwhelming for petite users, and color choices are limited.
The MinkeeBlue Nichet Backpack is designed for the organized professional. It’s packed with compartments, including a dedicated, insulated lunchbox compartment, a discreet back pocket, four internal pockets (two slip and two zippered), and a padded laptop sleeve. It comes with a separate shoe bag, or the lunchbox area can serve as an isolated shoe compartment. For days when shoes aren’t needed, the bag can be adjusted to create a single, larger main compartment. Generously padded straps ensure comfortable carrying, even when fully loaded. While slightly bulky for smaller frames, its size is comparable to other tested backpacks. The vegan leather exterior proved water-resistant in rain, though the lunchbox compartment leaked slightly when ice was left inside for an extended period. Color options include blush and powder blue.
The Details: 6 x 13 x 15 inches | 2.9 pounds | Vegan leather
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker
Best for the Gym: Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack
## Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack
PHOTO: Amazon
$53 at Amazon $55 at Zappos $55 at Dicks Sporting Goods
Why We Love It: The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is ideal for gym-goers due to its large, expandable front pocket, perfect for separating workout clothes and shoes.
What to Consider: The prominent logo may not suit all style preferences outside of athletic settings.
When ample space for workout gear is needed, the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack is a solid choice. Its generous capacity and soft interior are well-suited for bulky items like boxing gloves or large towels. The shoe compartment, located at the front and bottom, expands as required. The backpack’s robust construction and comfortable carry are enhanced by a breathable, padded mesh back panel. It also features a front valuables pocket, a lined laptop sleeve, attachment points on the shoulder straps and front, and dual water bottle pockets. Water-resistant (and water-repellent on the front pocket) properties handle rain and gym conditions. Available in 18 colors, there’s a style for everyone, though all versions feature a large Under Armour logo, which might not appeal to logo-averse users.
The Details: 6 x 20 x 12 inches | 1.4 pounds | 29 liters | Polyester
Best With Removable Pouch: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack
## Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack
PHOTO: Dagne Dover
View on Dagnedover.com $155 at Saks Fifth Avenue
Why We Love It: The Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack includes a convenient removable zip pouch, perfect for shoes or items needing separate storage.
What to Consider: The neoprene fabric is prone to staining and can be difficult to clean.
For those who don’t need a shoe compartment daily, the Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack offers a flexible solution. It comes with a separate shoe bag that fits seamlessly inside the backpack but is easily removed when not needed. Additional features include a smaller front exterior pocket, a water bottle pocket, an internal laptop sleeve, and a luggage trolley handle. The well-padded Dakota ensures comfortable wear for most users. During testing, we found the fabric susceptible to staining from water spills, which were difficult to remove. However, the backpack still feels durable and well-constructed. It’s available in six colors in Dagne Dover’s signature neoprene and three colors in an air mesh fabric.
The Details: 9.5 x 5 x 13 inches | 1.9 pounds (mesh), 2.2 pounds (neoprene) | 16 liters | Neoprene or mesh
[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-mini-backpacks-test-dagne-dover-small-dakota-tstaples-086-469114c9097b4a3b9b625f79f17ccac4.jpg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/C_TgXxyLZn41x9kgAgfR2K6pB-8=/fit-in/4480×4480/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-mini-backpacks-test-dagne-dover-small-dakota-tstaples-086-469114c9097b4a3b9b625f79f17ccac4.jpg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples
Best Budget: Matein Travel Backpack
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PHOTO: Amazon
$34 at Amazon View on Matein.com
Why We Love It: The Matein Travel Backpack is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features or capacity, offering excellent weight distribution.
What to Consider: A cross-body strap would enhance support, and a second laptop sleeve could be beneficial for some users.
The Matein Travel Backpack proves that affordability doesn’t mean compromising on features or space. This spacious backpack impressively accommodated two laptops, an iPad, and two phones, with considerable room remaining. The zippered bottom pocket serves as a shoe compartment, creating a separate section within the main compartment. It also includes three front zipper pockets for smaller items, and lockable main compartment zippers for added security. Dual water bottle sleeves (one internal, one external) and a USB port with a battery pack slot are thoughtful additions. The bag’s wide opening simplifies packing and organization. A luggage trolley handle sleeve is convenient for airport travel, and the padded straps effectively distribute weight, though a cross-body strap would further enhance support. Despite its lightweight material, the backpack showed good durability in testing. Available in two sizes (for 15.6-inch and 17-inch laptops) and six colors.
The Details: 8 x 13 x 20 inches | 1.9 pounds | 40 liters | Nylon
[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-laptop-carry-on-backpacks-test-matein-travel-jjuliao-2012-3125b22ac318447bac3b2e836d534cf8.jpeg)](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/nf0BrFXqKLQh-IlfO2_230oBCH4=/fit-in/4480×4480/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-laptop-carry-on-backpacks-test-matein-travel-jjuliao-2012-3125b22ac318447bac3b2e836d534cf8.jpeg)
PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
Best Water-repellent: lululemon City Adventurer Backpack
## lululemon City Adventurer Backpack
PHOTO: lululemon
Why We Love It: The lululemon City Adventurer Backpack combines water-repellent fabric with a stylish, minimalist design.
What to Consider: It’s smaller than other options and has fewer pockets for organization.
The lululemon City Adventurer Backpack proves that water resistance can be stylish. This backpack is minimalist, chic, and compact, featuring a shoe compartment at the bottom that divides the main compartment. Pocket quantity is limited, appealing to those who prefer simple organization. It includes a side zip water bottle pocket and a small internal zip pocket. Adjustable straps are comfortable and secure, even during active movement. The backpack is lightweight and, with a 20-liter capacity, is one of the smaller models on our list, suitable for those who prioritize a streamlined approach to packing. It showed excellent resistance to dirt and water during testing, remaining dry even in rain and clean after being placed under airplane seats.
The Details: 11 x 7 x 16 inches | 21 liters | Nylon body, polyester lining
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure
Other Travel Backpacks With Shoe Compartments We Liked
Among the many backpacks tested, some others showed promise but didn’t quite make our top recommendations due to minor drawbacks.
Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack: This backpack offers ample compartments and a stylish, unique puffy design with a two-compartment structure. However, the thin, unpadded fabric raised concerns about durability and protection for contents. The external water bottle pocket also becomes unusable when the bag is fully packed.
Our Testing Process for Travel Backpacks with Shoe Compartments
To determine the best travel backpacks with shoe compartments, we rigorously tested 70 backpacks across various categories including laptop, carry-on, kids’, and gym backpacks. Our testing protocol evaluated each backpack on capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. We used a standardized packing list to ensure consistent capacity assessment, examined design and features, conducted wear tests to evaluate functionality, and performed drop tests to assess durability. Real-world use testing extended over six months to gather long-term performance insights.
Tips for Buying a Travel Backpack with a Shoe Compartment
Versatility is Key
A quality travel backpack should be adaptable to various situations. Consider your primary use cases – commuting, overnight trips, gym visits? Ideally, your chosen backpack should seamlessly integrate into multiple aspects of your lifestyle for maximum utility.
Shoe Compartment Size Matters
Think about the types of shoes you’ll typically carry. A good shoe compartment should accommodate various shoe styles. If you carry pointed heels, look for thicker compartment fabric. For bulky hiking boots, prioritize a larger compartment size.
Organizational and Protection Needs
Beyond shoes, consider your other packing needs. If carrying a laptop, a padded laptop sleeve is essential. Padding in general protects sensitive items. For meticulous organizers, multiple smaller pockets are beneficial. If you prefer flexible packing, a large main compartment may suffice. For wet climates or frequent travel in rainy conditions, water-resistant fabric is a valuable feature.
Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Backpacks with Shoe Compartments
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How should I pack my shoes in a backpack with a shoe compartment?
Utilize the designated shoe compartment for optimal organization. If your backpack lacks a dedicated compartment, position shoes heels-inward to prevent poking. Face soles outward to minimize dirt transfer. Alternate heel directions for space efficiency. Place shoes lower in the backpack for balanced weight distribution. Use a separate shoe bag or plastic bag for added protection and cleanliness.
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What is the ideal backpack size for travel?
Size depends on intended use and travel style. For air travel, consider carry-on size restrictions, checking specific airline dimensions. For work or gym use, smaller sizes may suffice. A 22- to 30-liter capacity is generally considered medium, while larger backpacks up to 45 liters are suitable for everyday use. Larger sizes are geared towards backpacking and extended travel. For backpacks with shoe compartments, avoid sizes smaller than 15 liters to ensure sufficient space for other essentials.
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How do I clean my travel backpack?
Always prioritize manufacturer cleaning instructions. If unavailable, REI recommends wiping down the empty backpack with lukewarm water and a sponge after each use. Gently scrub exterior spots with mild soap, rinse with cool water, and air dry. Avoid aggressive scrubbing to preserve water-resistant coatings. Do not machine wash backpacks.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure for Travel Backpack Reviews
For this guide, Travel + Leisure editors conducted extensive testing on 70 backpacks to identify the best options with shoe compartments. Rena Behar, a seasoned gear tester and traveler, compiled findings from multiple tests and contributed her expert insights.
The 11 Best Carry-on Travel Backpacks, Tested and Reviewed
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Updated by Asia London Palomba
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Asia London Palomba
Asia London Palomba is a trilingual Italian writer based in Boston, specializing in food, travel, and history, covering topics from travel products for India trips to medieval judicial duels.
