Check the manufacturer’s care label before assuming either way — a small number of genuinely unstructured, frameless packs are machine-washable on a gentle cycle, but most travel backpacks with an internal frame, padded hip belt or suspended laptop compartment should not go in a machine.
The concern is twofold: agitation and spinning can warp an internal frame permanently out of shape, and it can break down foam padding in ways that aren’t reversible, both of which are expensive to replace and generally not something manufacturers repair after the fact.
Hand-washing with lukewarm water and mild soap, scrubbing gently at high-contact areas like the base and straps rather than submerging the whole pack, is the safer default for any structured travel backpack. Air-dry away from direct heat and sunlight, and never tumble-dry a structured pack for the same frame and padding reasons.
Last reviewed 26 August 2026