How big of a backpack do I need for Interrail?

We recommend taking a main backpack of between 50 and 70 litres for a 3 week interrail. You should also take a day sack for exploring cities.



For a standard Interrail trip in 2026, the ideal backpack size is between 40 and 55 liters. This range provides a balance between having enough space for diverse weather layers and the physical necessity of being mobile. A 40L bag is often sufficient for "minimalist" travelers who plan to do laundry every week and wish to keep their bag as a carry-on for flights. However, a 50L to 55L bag is more common for those tackling multi-week journeys across different climates. It is crucial to remember that you will be lifting this bag onto overhead luggage racks on trains and navigating narrow aisles, so a bag larger than 65L is generally discouraged as it becomes a physical burden. In 2026, many Interrailers prioritize "front-loading" backpacks (which open like a suitcase) over traditional top-loading trekking packs to make organizing clothes in cramped train cabins or hostel bunks much easier.

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With backpacks this size, it is essential that they fit you properly. TRAVEL: A 50L+ backpack is a great friend to those travelling for a few weeks.

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Less Risks of damage: Unlike a suitcase, a light weight backpack wont tend to have any moving parts (apart from zips) This means you are automatically limiting the risk of damage to your luggage/ I.e broken wheels on cobbled streets etc. When interrailing, you're going to be on the move quite a lot.

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Size Matters (but Bigger Isn't Better) Like a few other things in life, size matters when it comes to choosing a backpack — but not in the way you might think. Based on many years of dragging excessively large backpacks around the world, I have to say bigger is not better. You do not need an 80 or 90 litre pack.

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The sweet spot lies somewhere in the middle: a backpack between 40-70L is fine for a long-term trip – the trick is not to stuff it full.

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Absolutely! Travelling by train is one of the safest ways to explore Europe. An Interrail Pass gives you access to an extensive network of railway companies with some of the best connections, maintenance systems and safety measures in the world.

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A 30L – 50L backpack will be just the ticket. It will be able to hold all your sleeping, cooking, and camping gear you need for trips up to 5 or 6 days.

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Is 45 liters too big for a day hiking pack? Yes, 45 liters is more space than most people will need in a day hiking pack. The sweet spot for day packs is more like 15 – 30 liters, which is enough space for a day's worth of food and water, warm layers or rain gear, safety essentials, and other small items.

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Volume: A 45L backpack is the maximum-sized carry on allowed on most US airlines. For international or budget airlines, choose a bag under 40L. If you want to pack ultralight, anything 35L or under can be carried on virtually any airline. Dimensions: The common 45L volume is usually measured as 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

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Generally, three shoes is a good rule to follow: a pair of trainers, dress shoes, and flip flops. If you don't expect to do any hardcore trekking, Toms or Converse add the perfect element of comfort and style to your travel clothes. Carrying stilettos is just not practical in any backpacking situation.

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Here's how the 7pm rule works If your overnight train is leaving after 7pm then you can put in the following day's date on your rail pass and use one rather than two days of travel for the overnight trip. Simple!

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We would advise allowing for around 50-100 euros per day, do you have to spend this exact amount every day? No. Different factors will come into play, for example, one of the days you may want to do a tour that costs around 15-20 euros, but you still need to allow money for eating, public transport etc.

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Most interrailers do laundry at least once during their trips, as this cuts down on the amount of clothing you have to carry in your backpack. So, if you only wanted to do laundry once during your trip, you should pack enough clothes to last you until at least halfway through your trip.

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One of the most budget-friendly ways to see Europe is by using an Interrail train Pass. With a single Pass you can hop on and off many of Europe's trains. Costs of accommodation, food and entertainment do vary between countries, but there are many ways to enjoy a low-cost trip.

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If you buy a 55 liter to 65 liter back from a backpack manufacturer than only counts their closed storage in their volume spec, there's a pretty good chance you can carry all of your backpacking essentials inside your backpack, including a bulkier synthetic insulated sleeping bag and a two-person tent.

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