Toeing a neat middle ground between a briefcase and a duffle bag, this stylish all-leather construction pairs utilitarian thinking (as displayed by its 11 clever storage compartments) with impressive fashion credentials. Available in a range of colours, including vibrant shades of blue and green and crafted from the world’s most sustainable full-grain European-sourced leather, it’s an ideal choice for the eco-minded traveller who wants to stand out in a crowd.

RRP: $319

Australian-made brand Crumpler is an expert at fusing fun and function, and its Competitive Eater travel pack is a case in point. It’s stuffed with innovations including a removable waist strap with hidden zip pouch, water-resistant pockets, pad-protected laptop sleeve and easy access front organiser pocket, while its brightly coloured 30-litre interior adds a pop of whimsy to your journey.

RRP $350

Calling all aspiring paparazzi: this one’s for you. With its quick access pockets for SD cards or rolls of film, side pockets for tripods, padded laptop sleeve and dividable internal compartments, Peak Design’s Travel Backpack is an ideal choice for keen shutterbugs with their photography gear in tow. It can expand from a 35-litre day bag to a 45-litre carry-on and is 100 per cent waterproof, so no matter the weather you encounter, your camera will be snug and dry.

RRP $460

When you’re rushing through the airport, convenience is key, which is what makes Ghost Outdoors’ versatile Ultimate Rucksack a trusty traveller’s sidekick. It has a side entry zipper so you can access your belongings without having to dig and a padded laptop/tablet pocket – ideal for a speedy passage through security. The adjustable roll top allows you to unfurl four additional litres of packing volume, while the durable Cordura nylon exterior ensures you’ll get years of use.

RRP $179

When is a backpack not a backpack? The answer to this riddle is this clever 20-litre design by Nomatic, which packs like a suitcase but can be slung over your shoulder in transit. The Travel Pack’s straps can even be tucked away so you can carry it briefcase style while a second, slimline compartment offers easy access to laptops and travel documents without the need for a messy rummage. 

RRP $465.65

Famous for its clever Carry-On suitcase, Away’s 26-litre F.A.R Backpack is a roomy and durable bag quite literally made for every type of adventure. Its titular acronym stands for For All Routes and with its collection of design features and thoughtful organisational system, this pack certainly lives up to its name. 

RRP $130

With its simple, sleek silhouette and luxe pebble leather finish, you might assume this handsome bag is all style and no substance. But with its versatile top handle – so you can grab it and go – thoughtful internal organisational system and surprisingly generous volume, the Invasion of Privacy is as much a travel-savvy workhorse as it is a fashion moment. 

RRP $299.95

Add a little functional flare to your hand luggage courtesy of Marimekko’s signature floral Unikko print. This pack may not boast the generous volume or bells and whistles that some travellers demand, but for those in search of a fashionable transit accessory that comfortably accommodates a laptop, travel documents and daily essentials, the Marimekko Everything Backpack is an ideal option.

RRP: $420

Is it a duffle or a backpack? Well, it’s both – a supremely practical combination. The Splitpack splits into two equal-sized compartments divided by mesh covers. This allows for a clear overview of its contents, and enables separation of, say, dirty laundry or damp gear. At 35 litres, it’s big enough for a few days away but small enough to carry on your back.

RRP $329.95

This Samsonite Locus Eco is made from 100 per cent post-consumer recycled plastic bottles so it’s a great choice for travellers who want to tread lightly. It’s a great choice for anyone, really: it’s got a sleeve so it fits on any suitcase handle, it fits a 15” laptop in a special compartment and it’s rather sleek and businesslike, to boot.

RRP $169

The pack that began it all, Fjälläven’s Kånken, was developed in 1978 for Swedish school kids who were experiencing back problems from carrying heavy shoulder bags. Now, it’s a hipster stand-by, but don’t let that put you off. It comes in a range of fun colours and it’s simple and durable – the perfect daypack.

RRP $189.95

If you’re the kind of traveller who might be rambling through the bush one weekend and hustling through city laneways the next, the Itchy Feet pack is for you. Designed with the flexible tourist in mind, it has padded shoulder, waist and sternum straps, ideal for lugging hefty gear on a hike, as well as a 16” laptop pouch, a side access zipper and compression straps to shrink it down for when you’re out and about on the street.

RRP $300

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