Traveling to Greece soon with your teens and picking the right backpack has turned into a family feud? Then worry not, in this article, we will show you the best backpacks for teens traveling in Greece that will make both kids and parents reach a happy agreement!
They are fashionable and stylish but also do their job when it comes to facing long-haul travel or going island-hopping with the whole family. Tested by MommaLovesGreece (which also has a fair share of teens at home to know enough about the matter!)
So here you are, 10 of the best backpacks for teens traveling in Greece.
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Best Backpacks For Teens Traveling In Greece
Resources to Travel to Greece with Kids in Full Peace of Mind:
ACCOMMODATION: Family-friendly accommodation in Greece.
CAR RENTAL: Car rental in Greece with baby seats, child seats, and booster seats.
FERRIES: Affordable ferry tickets.
TOURS & EXPERIENCES: Amazing child-friendly tours in Greece.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: Don’t travel without travel insurance.
LUGGAGE STORAGE: Leave your bags for the day and walk feeling light.
Top Reasons to Travel to Greece with a Backpack
Unless you’re an unusual traveler not keen on exploring much, when coming to Greece you’ll realize that the more comfortable you are when it comes to luggage, the better.
A trip to Greece, especially for a summer vacation, is all about going from one island to another, often with a ferry ride. This means it’s important to pack the essentials, travel light, and have the possibility to embark and disembark easily.
Nothing makes that kind of travel easier than carrying the right backpack. No need to worry about trolley wheels being broken or getting stuck with all that up and down the boat hassle.
Backpacks make it easier to manage, store and travel with your luggage.
When everyone in the family has their own luggage to take care of, everyone will be able to organize their belongings and decide what is worth taking with them on a trip or not…
At MommaLovesGreece we believe this is one of the best lessons for teens (but also for toddlers and kids) when it comes to reaching independence and traveling comfortably!
For this reason, I’ve gathered here some of the teen-friendly backpacks in the market that are just right for travel.
I’ve chosen models that are conveniently priced and sturdy, without disregarding the capacity of storage, and some style.
But before we move on to these products, let’s have a look at some important factors to consider while buying your teen a backpack for traveling in Greece!
How to Choose the Right Backpack to Travel to Greece for a Teen
Here are some quick tips to consider while getting your teen a travel backpack.
Weight: How Much Weight to Carry?
Light backpacks are winners, as long as they are the right size and resistant, then it is always a good idea to avoid heavy metal frames that add useless weight not making really much for the support.
Make sure the backpack you purchase is light enough to be carried for hours.
Whether it is hiking, long-haul travel, traveling between the islands, or even for a short weekend away, the lighter the backpack the happier the backpacker.
Long gone are the days when moms carried their kid’s backpacks, they’re teens now: backpacks have grown in weight and size, meaning that nobody will be there to help.
A tired teen is a moody teen, so go for lightweight luggage for full peace of mind too!
The Right Measure for Your Teen’s Backpack
Teens’ backpacks are similar to adult backpacks in size but might be less fancy and with a reduced capacity.
For my 17-year-old, I had been thinking about transitioning from a 40-liter to a 55-liter backpack, and it was a mistake! It turns out my son is not such a fashion victim, loves to pack plain patterns, and has learned to wash some of his clothes when he is on a trip, so a 55-liter backpack was way too big.
My 13-year-old instead, loves to pack extra… so he is really eager to go from his 40-liter to a bigger model. As usual, it all depends on the length of the trip, and even more, on how much your teen will want to pack.
In general, I suggest parents go for a backpack ranging between 35 to 50 liters, staying around the 40-liter range.
If the backpack is sturdy and made with quality material, chances are that your kid will use this backpack for many years.
Best Backpack Style for Teens
When it comes to backpacks for teens, there are two styles you will want to consider, a backpack with a front-loading system, which can be opened just like a suitcase, or a backpack that opens from the top, more of a hiking backpack style.
Both can have different pros and cons. In short, when it comes to looking for items fast, front-loading backpacks are more comfortable.
On the other hand, hiking backpacks are slimmer and longer, easier to carry, and often offer more back support as they are made for being carried for longer times.
However, choosing the style of the backpack is your kid’s personal preference. Darker colors are winners, both for boys and girls.
Hard Shell or Soft Shell
This is a no-brainer, at least for me, a soft shell is a way to go, no matter the destination.
Even if you worry about your kid traveling with expensive electronic devices and gadgets that might suffer from the lack of protection, it’s always better to invest in a protective case for an iPad or a portable Nintendo console than getting a hardshell backpack to do the job.
If that’s the case with your kids, do invest in a waterproof backpack.
With or Without Wheels
Wheeled backpacks are great for long-distance travel and for moving around in the airport, however, the bigger the backpack, the heavier the wheel system becomes.
Since teens will be buying a backpack that’s almost good also for an adult, consider that the wheel frame will be heavier and often bulkier. It won’t just only steal storage space, but it can add extra unneeded weight putting pressure on your teen’s back
I often prefer models without wheels, especially when there’s island hopping with ferries involved, or if I know that walking uphill will be part of the deal to reach the hotel.
Remember that on most islands (Santorini is a great example) walking on cobblestoned alleys or climbing stairs is the norm.
If you’re planning a lot of short day trips during your travels, do consider adding a foldable backpack inside the main backpack.
They are perfect to carry the essentials, including a hat, snacks, an extra jumper or swimming clothes, and a water bottle or thermos.
10 Best Travel Backpacks for Teens to Use in Greece (and anywhere else!)
So, we have already discussed what to look for in a backpack for teens traveling in Greece; let’s now go through the top 10 picks.
Here’s a thorough review of each of them for you to make an informed decision when the time to buy them arrives. Take a look!
Mountaintop Hiking Backpack 35L with Rain Cover
A bit on the small side if you want to use it as your only luggage unless it’s for a short trip or if your kid is not an over-packer, Mountaintop produces some of the best backpacks in the market (and for this reason, this is not the only Mountaintop backpack in this list).
This particular model has the perfect shape for hiking and also comes with a handy rain cover while it also conforms to the EU maximum carry-on luggage size.
Among the top characteristics, there’s an adjustable chest strap, a breathable molded foam back panel, and S-shaped shoulder straps that offer cushioned comfort.
Mountaintop Hiking Backpack 35L with Rain Cover in short
- Colors available for boys and girls
- Chest strap straps
- Plenty of pockets, including tablet and laptop compartments
- Rain cover included
- Casual but stylish look
- One of the top brands for backpacks for travel and outdoors.
>>> Check more details about the Mountaintop Hiking Backpack 35L
Deuter Fox 40 Kid’s Backpack for Hiking and Trekking
Although defined as a kid’s backpack, this 40-liter backpack is perfect for a teen. Although it might be a bit on the pricey side, it is certainly a very durable backpack that your kids will use for years to come, super sturdy, and among the favorite pieces of luggage among outdoor aficionados.
Built to last, and designed for comfort, the backpack has ergonomic pads to distribute the load evenly, and 3D AirMess channels offer ventilation for your kid’s back. Length can be adjusted too so that this backpack grows with your child.
Deuter Fox 40 Kid’s Backpack highlights
- VariQuick back length adjustment system allows for personalized comfort, while also allowing this backpack to grow with your child
- Specialized compartments for your hydration system, valuables, and wet gear
- Made from 600D PES and 210D PA Ripstop fabric for lightweight and durability (it’s water- and abrasion-resistant), lasting longer.
- Pull-forward hip fins, load adjustment straps, and adjustable sternum belts ensure that the load is distributed evenly and the backpack stays secure.
BattlePack Tactical Backpack
If your kid is anything like my kid then he (or she) will LOVE this backpack. My youngest is all into tactical backpacks, and I must say that the modular kind of way to add and remove extra pouches has proved really useful for long-term travel.
You might think it’s super huge at first, but consider that comes with handy straps that allow adjusting the backpack when it’s not completely full, making it a long-lasting purchase too, for when that kiddo turns into a young adult!
To be fully honest, I would have never guessed that I’d love this backpack so much!
24BattlePack Tactical Backpack highlights
- Waterproof lining and high-quality, long-lasting zippers
- Comfortable padding and breathable mesh with double-stitched seams.
- Laptop-safe, hydration bladder compatible with drinking tube access.
- Collapsible / Expandable design with compression straps that allow it to down to the small 20L size or expanded out for more
- One-year warranty.
>>> Check more details about the 24BattlePack Tactical Backpack
High Sierra Dells Canyon Travel Backpack
This almost front-loader, 40-liter backpack is compact enough for comfortable travel. It can fit a couple of pairs of running shoes and enough clothes without being huge, it has the best size for teens.
It can look a bit on the pricey side, but it will last quite a long time due to its high-performance traits. The bag is well made, comes with several compartments, and has comfy handles all over.
It also comes with a discrete luggage back strap to easily attach it to a trolley and compression straps that make it even comfier.
High Sierra Dells Canyon Travel Backpack in short
- Airmesh straps made from EVA foam,
- Ventilated air mesh back panel
- Padded shoulders
- Laptop and tablet compartment, TSA compliant.
>>> Check more details about the High Sierra Dells Canyon Travel Backpack
Marmot Graviton Hiking Backpack 34L
A small but versatile 34-liter backpack, that paired with the right compression cubes can be an ideal piece of luggage for teens traveling in Greece.
It has a very light aluminum frame and is made from 70D ripstop nylon which makes it lightweight and long-lasting. It features enough pockets and an air exchange ventilation system in the back. Reinforcement is made from 100D triple ripstop nylon for enhanced durability.
Adjustable compression straps on the side and the bottom makes it perfect for comfortable wear while its water-repellent material makes it a good choice for multi-day trips, hiking, trekking, and even cycling.
Marmot Graviton Hiking Backpack in short
- Light aluminum frame with various pockets for transporting equipment
- 100 D nylon triple ripstop reinforcement, it also includes adjustable compression straps
- Sophisticated air exchange ventilation system for efficient heat transfer and high wear comfort
- Large opening in the main compartment for convenient access
- Soft padding on the shoulder and hip parts; multiple zippered pockets, mesh pockets, loops, carrying system for trekking poles.
Mountaintop 40L Hiking Backpack with rain cover
This durable backpack is a perfect travel companion for your teen, now and for years to come. And it’s also among the best-rated teen-friendly backpacks on the market!
It features large spaces, a large front zipper pocket, and a large deep main pocket too. It comes with a rain cover stored in its own bottom pocket and 2 side zipper pockets for bottles.
There is also a compartment for a hydration bladder making it also good for outdoor trips and activities. The design is ergonomic, and great for kids and teens as well.
Mountaintop 40L Hiking Backpack with rain cover highlights
- Ergonomic design with breathable thick mesh padding, it also includes independent top and bottom hip adjustments for a more custom fit.
- Emergency whistle buckle, easy access zippers, adjustable shoulder straps and other straps, hip-belt pocket, thoughtful and good-looking zipper pockets.
- Versatile, the backpack has a good size to work as a carry-on backpack, an island-hopping backpack, travel, camping, hiking, or casual daypack.
>>> Check more details about the Mountaintop 40L Hiking Backpack
Besttravel Travel Backpack, 45L Hiking Backpacks Water Resistant
Looking for an affordable backpack that can deliver quality and resistance? Then this might be your choice. Although there are no fancy colors to choose from or other exclusive features, this might be the best back for those on a budget, at an affordable price, and super durable.
This Besttravel laptop backpack is made of high-quality tear and wear-resisting and rain-proof material. It has breathable mesh shoulder straps with a plentiful sponge and comfy padding.
Spacious pockets keep all things organized and separated, such as a hydration reservoir, tent, trekking poles, hammock, water bottles, a 17.3-inch laptop, and more.
45L Besttravel Travel Backpack in short
- High-quality material and durable material with comfortable padding
- Dedicated pockets and compartments for multiple objects
- Long-lasting and affordable
- Water-resistant fabric, luggage strap, and anti-theft pocket included.
Jack Wolfskin Unisex Moab Jam 34 backpack
One of my favorite brands when it comes to well-thought backpacks, easy to carry and super comfortable, all Jack Wolfskin backpacks are fitted with plenty of smart pockets and compartments. When my kids were younger, the Berkeley for Kids model was all we wore for day trips and long-term travel too.
The 34-liter Moab Jam is a top backpack for a tall kid or a teen. It is made of water-resistant material, features comfy shoulder straps, and holds tons of luggage.
Jack wolfskin Unisex Moab Jam 34L
- Lightweight material
- Adjustable and comfy shoulder straps, hip-strap with zipper pocket
- Water-resistant
- Serves for a long time, perfect for outdoor sports, including hiking and cycling.
Jack Wolfskin Berkeley Backpack
As already mentioned, this backpack rocks in the small kids’ version too. Super spacious, well-thought, and boasting a myriad of smart compartments, this is an awesome backpack for everyday use, travel, and of course for those teens that carry as much as they can, even on a holiday to Greece.
Although it might look small due to its 30L capacity, trust me when I say you will be able to pack it to the full and more!
Good both for travel and school as well, the pack is sturdy, reliable, and incredibly comfortable. It’s compact which makes it great for trips too. Thanks to the snuggle-up back system with wide shoulder straps and balanced load distribution, teens will find it very comfortable.
Jack Wolfskin Berkeley Backpack in short
- Special front pocket for tablet
- Comfy shoulder straps and a specially designed system to distribute the weight evenly.
- Plenty of pockets for better organization
- Good for different activities, including school, travel, and sports.
Cabin Max Metz 30 L
We have used this backpack in the 40-liter version and it is really versatile, affordable, and a perfect travel companion for short and longer trips. The 30-liter version we feature here is fantastic for teens.
suitable for all airlines as well as for ferry travel, this is a spacious bag with a suitcase opening style with an unobstructed main compartment.
With extensive comfy padding both on the back panel and the adjustable straps, the Mini Metz backpack will be equally comfortable at the beginning and the end of the journey.
Cabin Max Metz 30L
- 3-year manufacturers warranty for extra peace of mind
- Smooth, easy-to-pull zippers easy for kids to glide, side pockets for water bottles, and a convenient extra pouch for small objects (cables, earbuds, and more)
- Front organizer pocket and front quick access pocket for travel documents, with space for toiletries and other objects, that it’s more convenient to keep at hand during the trip.
Conclusions: Picking a backpack for your teen
These are, according to MommaLovesGreece, the most convenient teen backpacks for traveling in Greece, they are ideal for island-hopping, but also great for day trips, excursions, and outdoor adventures, most of them can also be used to go to the beach too!
They are also perfect for long-haul flying, as they can all accommodate your teen’s in-flight entertainment needs with ease.
We’ve searched for comfy, easy-to-carry backpacks, with padded shoulder straps as well as hip or chest straps whenever possible.
They all feature ample compartments and are made of easy-to-clean, durable material.
I hope you have liked our collection of the 10 best backpacks for teens traveling in Greece. Let me know which one you and your teen chose for your adventure on the islands!
Are you traveling to Greece with your teens soon?
Let me know in the comments below!
You might also want to read these posts to prepare for a great holiday in Greece with the family!
- The Best Things to Do in Andros with Kids for a Fantastic Time in Greece!
- Kid-Friendly Greek Food: Best Things to Eat in Greece for Picky Eaters
- The Most Fantastic Things to Do in Kos with Kids
- Best Greek Islands For Kids Close to Athens!
- Best Family Beaches in Greece for an Unforgettable Vacation!
- Holidays in Greece for Families: Amazing Destinations to Discover Greece with Kids
Pin this Guide to the Best Backpacks for Teens Traveling in Greece for Your Upcoming Family Adventures!
About me:
I have lived in Chania, Crete, since 2016. As a local, I have an intimate knowledge of the Crete. I host culinary and concierge tours and experiences in Crete and write about the island for several travel media. During the last five years, I have helped many travelers plan the perfect holiday in Crete. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.