The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

travel suitcase with backpack straps

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TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested.

  • What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

  • Capacity 5 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Durability 5 /5
  • Comfort 5 /5

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy and has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy just in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

  • Capacity 4 /5
  • Design 3 /5
  • Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

  • Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

  • Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

  • Design 4 /5
  • Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-organized internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

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Keep all your belongings safe and organized in a lightweight backpack.

four travel backpacks side by side on a blue background

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Our top picks:

Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Best Overall Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Travel Backpack

Best Value Travel Backpack

Coofay travel backpack.

Travel Backpack 45L

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

Best Weekender Travel Backpack

Away f.a.r convertible backpack 45l.

40L Travel Backpack

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

Porter 46L Travel Pack

Best Travel Backpack for Backpacking

Osprey porter 46l travel pack.

Alpha Bravo Search Backpack

Best Travel Backpack for Business Travel

Tumi alpha bravo search backpack.

Aion Travel Backpack

Best Travel Backpack for Flying

Thule aion travel backpack.

Silhouette 17 Backpack

Best Travel Backpack for Work

Samsonite silhouette 17 backpack.

Daylite Plus Daypack

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

Osprey daylite plus daypack.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluates backpacks both in Lab and with consumer testers for durability and comfort. From the best laptop backpacks and backpacks for college students to the best duffels and daypacks , we've seen it all. To find the best travel backpacks, we test everything from tear strength to strap strength and abrasion resistance to make sure the bag can stand up to rough handling for years to come. We also work with consumer testers who try them out on various trips under real-world conditions. We also consider the amount of padding in the straps, useful extras and overall weight to find the most comfortable backpacks.

Our picks are top performers from testing along with new styles that have exciting features and rave reviews. Check out our top travel backpack picks below and keep reading to learn all of our ultimate backpack shopping tips to find the best pack for you. Pair your new travel backpack with packing cubes and a hard-side suitcase for your next vacation.

We were shocked by just how much we could fit inside this travel backpack during our packing tests. In fact, it outperformed multiple carry-on suitcases for its generous capacity and well-designed interior. Similar to hard-side luggage, the bag completely unzips for easy packing and, in this case, features helpful mesh to help separate compartments.

On top of that, we liked the helpful ergonomic features, from the padding along the back to the hip strap and sternum strap, which offer comfort and support. Plus, when testing the laptop sleeve, we found there was room to spare after placing a 16-inch laptop in it. The only note of caution is that the bag doesn't have a luggage sleeve, so if you're hoping to stack it on top of rolling luggage, it may not be the right fit.

a close up of the interior of the cotopaxi backpack, including many organization components

When we surveyed our own editors and staff for their favorite bags, this one from Coofay was a hit for its organizational pockets and personal-item-friendly size. One staffer told us, "This backpack can definitely fit a week of clothing if rolled properly."

Like many popular travel backpacks, this one unzips like a suitcase for easy packing and has tons of small compartments to help keep your belongings in order. We particularly appreciate the compression straps on the side, allowing you to pack more while keeping the bag within the personal item size limit of most domestic airlines. Plus, there's a wide range of colors to choose from.

Designed with intention, Peak Design's travel backpack is truly a standout within the industry. While it's hard to find a travel bag that can tackle all sorts of trips, this one manages to do just that . It's truly one-of-a-kind and allows you to access your belongings from the front (like a suitcase), the back (like a top-loading traditional backpack) and the sides.

Compression features allow you to easily convert it from a 30L capacity to a 35L or 45L bag for all your travel needs. The backpack straps can be hidden away to keep it streamlined while using the simple luggage sleeve. The only challenge comes with packing: While the interior is spacious, there aren't too many separate compartments, so if that's important to you, the brand offers a selection of compatible packing cubes , including protective ones for camera equipment.

a shot of a completely open peak design travel bag

With a massive 45L interior, this bag from Away can hold everything you need for a weekend away, including multiple outfits, toiletries and even an extra pair of shoes. It's the go-to travel backpack for GH's Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine , who's brought it on everything from short weekend getaways to longer trips abroad.

Constantine notes, "The straps are comfortable and feel sturdy, and I love that the backpack straps can be tucked away if I'm carrying the bag like a suitcase instead of on my back." In addition, this pack also has all the top-notch organizational features you'd expect from Away, from compression straps to convenient mesh pockets. The caveat? The zippers are a little too easy to open and sometimes have a tendency to come undone.

This backpack includes the ultimate organizational system: Three packing cubes , a laptop case, a water bottle/umbrella pocket and a small front pocket. The packing cubes are ideal to keep your clothes compact and wrinkle-free while traveling. We also love the padded straps and side buckles to make sure everything stays in place.

It has a clamshell opening and both sides lie down flat, which makes this backpack easier to pack and organize as you don't have to stuff items in from the top. This pick is ideal as a carry-on for international travel as you can easily pack your clothes and what you'll need on the flight.

Finding a good backpacking bag can be a challenge. You'll want a bag that's spacious and supportive enough that it won't cause injury. Luckily, Osprey is known for its ergonomically designed packs, making it a favorite brand amongst some hiking enthusiasts at GH. One GH analyst has even taken the brand's bags on a two-week backpacking trip to Thailand, calling them comfortable and well-designed.

This model comes with a generous 46L capacity and helpful compression straps, both on the exterior and interior, allowing you to bring everything you'll need and then some. Additionally, this bag features the brand's helpful chest and hip straps for support, along with helpful pockets throughout. Take note, however, that it comes in a unisex style, so users accustomed to women-specific packs may find the shoulder straps stiff.

Carrying a TUMI backpack is a status symbol no matter where you are — the brand is known for its luxury travel products worldwide, particularly for its long-lasting quality and service . Buying a travel product (e.g. a bag or luggage) from the brand typically comes with a five-year warranty and free repairs plus a lifetime registration and tracking service for finding lost bags. Even after five years, you can ask the brand to repair your bag for a small cost.

TUMI's Search Backpack is sleek enough for conferences and work trips, making it great for business travel or everyday use. One GH analyst has used this bag for over 10 years, throughout school and work and on multiple domestic and international flights. While the top-loading configuration isn't as seamless for packing, testers were still impressed by how "surprisingly spacious" and "high quality" it felt.

a person wearing the tumi search backpack

Having the right backpack can make all the difference when going through airport security. This one from Thule, one of our favorite luggage brands, comes equipped with helpful features like a small easy-to-reach pocket for your passport and boarding pass plus a convenient laptop compartment . Within the bag, there's a helpful divider for organization along with other mesh pockets and panels.

The bag also comes in two sizes — 28L and 40L — each of which makes the perfect personal item or carry-on respectively. And if 28L sounds a bit too small, this size expands to 32L to accommodate more essentials. The only caveat is that the 40L version doesn't come with any hip straps, which is rare for a backpack of its size. The brand suggests pairing the bag with the Aion Sling , which slots in easily for support.

Ideal when traveling for business or even everyday commuting to work, the Silhouette 17 backpack has all the essentials and then some. In fact, it's designed to replace your carry-on, which can slow you down when on a last-minute business trip. Moreover, Samsonite's soft-side luggage has proven be abrasion-resistant and strong in our tests , staying in great shape, so we are confident in the durability of the brand's similar products.

Beyond the durable nature, it opens up like a hardshell suitcase, complete with functional sections, and has a padded laptop sleeve for easy access. Plus, it easily convert from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag. For longer trips, you can even slide it onto checked luggage instead of maneuvering two suitcases through the airport.

Often used on day hikes for its lightweight design, a daypack can be a great option for those in search of a not-so-heavy travel backpack. And when it comes to the best daypacks , Osprey reigns supreme as the top-performing brand, earning especially high scores for their amazing ease-of-use features and fitting everything in our packing test .

Recent testers have loved that Osprey bags have "lots of compartments" and "comfortable cushioned shoulder straps." Some even highlighted the helpful sternum strap, which keeps the weight evenly distributed, preventing shoulder pain. You can also expect an interior sleeve to fit a laptop or tablet or a hydration reservoir for hikes, plus a slew of pockets in the front including two mesh water bottle pockets.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech

Kaslo Backpack Tech

When we tested this laptop backpack , we were surprised by how lightweight yet protective it felt. The detail and care are evident throughout: The bag has reinforced stitching in areas where you'd expect extra tugging like the top handle, straps and luggage sleeve. There's also a separate laptop compartment with a fleece lining to help minimize potential scratches.

One Textiles Lab analyst swears by this bag, using it as both her everyday bag for commuting as well as her go-to travel backpack, especially on business trips when she'll need her laptop handy. In our packing test, we found the 30L capacity large enough to fit a 16-inch laptop plus three to four days of clothes and toiletries. If that’s not the right size for you, it also comes in a 20L capacity for those with more petite frames.

an unzipped black backpack from herschel with a separate laptop component

patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L

Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L

Whether you're backpacking through a new country or flying to a nearby city, this Patagonia pack is up for the adventure. It's made with polyester that has a durable water-repellent finish to keep all your belongings protected. One tester shared that this bag is the "backpack to end all backpacks" because it's great for all types of vacations and features a sternum strap you can easily adjust to suit your height.

While the 25L capacity may look small, the bag lives up to its "Black Hole" name, fitting much more than you'd expect, especially when you roll your clothes up , or you can opt for the 32L style . Plus, in Lab tests, water rolled right off the main fabric of the bag with ease, so you can rest assured it'll protect your belongings even in unpredictable weather.

a patagonia backpack with an adjustable sternum strap

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dakota Neoprene Backpack

No one wants an uncomfortable backpack, which is why we loved this bag from Dagne Dover. It's made of neoprene fabric, which feels soft and squishy instead of stiff like some other bags. The brand also does not skimp when it comes to details like an interior pocket to hold a water bottle or cell phone and a pouch that can be attached on a leash inside the main compartment to find small stuff quickly.

The main compartment has a laptop sleeve and is large enough for a weekend trip. Plus, it even has a sleek luggage sleeve, slipping easily onto a carry-on suitcase at the airport. Take note: We found that if you’re rough with the bag, the neoprene fabric may pill (though pills can easily be removed with a fabric shaver ). This pick comes in small and medium sizes too.

a tan backpack with a luggage sleeve on a pink carry on suitcase

How we test travel backpacks

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The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products and backpacks for decades.

Headshot of Grace Wu

Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

Headshot of Emma Seymour

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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  • Travel Backpacks

What’s the Best Backpack Suitcase Combo?

Published October 14, 2021

Written by:

Fred Perrotta

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

Headshot of Jeremy Michael Cohen

Jeremy Michael Cohen

Jeremy Michael Cohen is a co-founder of Tortuga. He also works as a screenwriter and director. Aside from travel and...

Woman walking through airport

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Suitcases are great for air travel and for keeping your stuff organized.

The problem with suitcases is that they aren’t made for city travel. Wheeled suitcases are fine on the polished floors of an airport or an office building, but suitcases have cheap plastic wheels that can break easily on uneven sidewalks. The cobblestone streets of Europe and dirt roads of less developed countries render them all but useless. Plus, many train stations, hostels, and hotels in Europe don’t have elevators or escalators. Good luck hauling a heavy suitcase up and down flights and flights of stairs.

Backpacks are convenient for urban travel. Flexible enough for any terrain, you can easily grab your bag and go.

The problem with most backpacks is that they’re either too small to bring everything you need, or too large to meet carry on requirements . Normal backpacks are tough to pack and unpack, making most options ill-suited for travel.

Carry-On-Sized Travel Backpacks

Pack for trips of one week or more without checking a bag.

  • Thick comfortable straps
  • Easy to organize
  • Durable, waterproof fabric
  • Backed by our Worldwide Warranty

Regardless of size, most backpacks must be packed from the top leaving your stuff a disorganized mess. You’ll be dumping your dirty laundry on the airport floor looking for that one thing hidden at the bottom and getting dressed in your hostel or hotel room won’t be much more fun either.

Suitcases and backpacks each have their own strengths and weaknesses. The ideal piece of luggage would combine the best parts of each into a suitcase/backpack hybrid.

Unfortunately, many travel backpacks blend the worst features of suitcases and backpacks into a hybrid piece of luggage that doesn’t work for anyone. A suitcase with backpack straps is not the solution. In fact, it’s the exact opposite of the solution.

Let’s dig into the problems with suitcase backpacks and why a travel backpack is a better solution for your next trip.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Backpacks with Wheels

The most obvious suitcase/backpack combination is a rolling backpack with wheels and shoulder straps. You’ve probably seen other travelers carrying them or spotted them in stores.

The problem is that backpacks with wheels combine the worst elements of backpacks and of suitcases. You might be able to roll them through an airport, but that convenience is far outweighed by the disadvantages of wheeled backpacks.

Adding plastic handles and wheels to a backpack significantly increases its weight. The increased weight makes the bag more difficult to carry and more likely to exceed airlines’ carry on baggage weight allowances.

A sampling of rolling backpacks on eBags showed an average weight of nearly 7 pounds (3 kg). The bags ranged from 4.5-8.5 pounds (2-4 kg).

Airlines’ rules for carry on bag weight vary dramatically. Most North American and European airlines allow carry on luggage up to 22 pounds (10 kg). Some are as low as 11 pounds (5 kg). You could carry a mostly empty backpack with a change of clothes and a water bottle and still be charged for an overweight carry on .

On average, a wheeled suitcase would take up 20-40% of the allowed weight. Good luck packing clothes or a laptop without going over the weight allowance.

Rolling backpacks are heavy. You’ll want to put them down and take advantage of their wheels as often as possible.

Using the rolling backpack as a wheeled suitcase leaves you at the mercy of easily broken plastic wheels and eliminates the benefit of carrying a backpack.

Once your wheeled backpack hits the streets, the wheels are likely to break. When they do, you’ll be left carrying the bag exclusively as a backpack. But, because it has wheels, you’ll be carrying a few extra pounds of now-useless plastic.

Wheeled backpacks are uncomfortable. They have terrible ergonomics. Roller bags—even those with backpack straps—are made to be suitcases first and backpacks second. The shape and size are made to account for the handle and wheels, not a comfortable fit on a human body. Despite its straps, carrying a suitcase backpack will be uncomfortable.

Packing Space

Every added feature takes away valuable packing space . In a carry on , you’re limited to 22 x 14 x 9″ on the most generous airlines and even less on budget airlines. With a suitcase you’ll lose at least an inch in depth for the handle and an inch in height for the wheels.

A suitcase with straps is the Frankenstein’s monster of luggage. So, what’s the solution?

What to Look for in a Backpack Suitcase

Backpacks and suitcases each have benefits and drawbacks, but the right combination of features will make traveling a breeze. Here are the features to look for in a backpack-suitcase combo.

Carry On Sized

Many suitcases are designed to be carry on luggage . Too many backpack companies ignore this concept and make giant bags, sometimes taller than the torso of the person wearing them.

Experienced travelers know never to check luggage. By using carry on luggage , you avoid hefty baggage fees, ensure that the airlines can’t lose or damage your bags, and minimize your time at the airport.

A good travel backpack will keep carry on restrictions in mind. You won’t have to worry about getting stopped by a gate agent and being forced to check your bag because it’s too big for the overhead bin.

Opens Like a Suitcase

The best travel backpacks open like a suitcase. Unlike hiking bags or school bags—which open from the top—your ideal travel backpack will zip open on 3 sides like a suitcase so you can easily see and pack everything you’re bringing with you . When you need something from your backpack, you can grab it quickly without shifting everything else around. Packing cubes can help you keep your main compartment organized.

You’ll want your data-keyword-id=”101″>travel backpack to have a spacious main compartment to organize clothing and other large items. Aside from that, dedicated pockets outside of the main compartment for small things like your toiletries, passport , pens, and your laptop can help you stay organized.

Comfortable

Backpacks are easy to carry and convenient to pick up and go. If designed with adequate padding and a hip belt to distribute weight off of your shoulders and onto your hips, backpacks can be comfortable even when fully packed. Your best bet is to measure your torso and find a travel backpack that fits your body.

Easy access to these items means you can quickly remove them in the airport security line. Keep your map, guidebook, and water bottle within easy reach while walking from public transportation to your hotel.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

The Ultimate Backpack Suitcase Combo

We, the co-founders of Tortuga , learned these lessons the hard way after making terrible luggage choices on a trip to Eastern Europe in 2009. We did extensive research before the trip but couldn’t find the perfect piece of luggage.

I bought a top-loading backpack but couldn’t keep it organized. My clothes were embarrassingly wrinkled, and I made a mess of the hostel every time I got dressed. Plus, it was too big and had to be checked. Jeremy’s shoulder strap ripped on our first day due to cheap materials.

We couldn’t find the perfect travel backpack , so we made it.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack  is the result of those frustrations. The Travel Backpack is a carry-on-sized backpack that’s organized, comfortable, and easy to carry. The carry on bags come in 30L and 40L sizes.

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Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the company. For over a decade, he’s traveled the world from his home base in the Bay Area while working remotely. When he’s on the road, Fred enjoys both walking and eating as much as possible.

Read more from Fred

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The 17 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

From basic rucksacks to nifty new features, these backpacks are a traveler's dream come true.

travel backpacks

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

When choosing the best knapsack, there are many factors to keep in mind, such as fabrication, size, and style. Maybe you're often traveling for work and looking for a bag with laptop sleeve , or maybe you're guilty of overpacking and need an option that can expand or lay flat like a suitcase . Or very simply, perhaps you just want one that you can throw over your shoulder long after your trip is over. The options are endless... which can also mean deciding on the right bag suited to your needs can be overwhelming. Fret not! Here, find some of the best carry-on backpacks that can go the distance.

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

Silhouette 17 Backpack

A backpack that packs like a suitcase? Why didn't someone think of this sooner? This Samsonite bag is perfect for the traveler who wants to travel light without sacrificing that packing method they've perfected.

everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

The ReNew Transit Backpack

This bag has compartments, on compartments, on compartments—including an exterior laptop pocket, making it extra easy to slip your computer in and out for TSA.

Fjallraven Kanken Water Resistant Backpack

Water Resistant Backpack

These Scandinavian bags have been tested, tried and true since the 1970s. They don't offer a lot of frills or features, but they are as practical and reliable as they come. Cute enough to be your day bag but spacious enough to fit all your carry-on essentials, this bag is two-for-one. Plus, there's no shortage of color options!

Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L

Travel Backpack 40L

For the packer who's serious about one-bag travel, a Tortuga pack is a great option. The 40-liter size is designed to be as large as regulations allow for the overhead bin on international flights, so you can make the most of every nook and cranny. It's waterproof with lockable zippers, making it ready for whatever adventure you embark on.

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Luka Laptop Backpack

Calpak is known for creating travel bags and accessories with smart engineering in mind, and this backpack is an incredibly popular pick for obvious reasons. Thanks to its many compartments, it can hold a ton—shoes, notebooks, bottles, you name it—and is designed to protect a 15-inch laptop in one of the inner sleeves. Even better, it comes in a variety of pretty colors, such as this rose gold hue.

Monos Metro Backpack

Metro Backpack

The unique feature on this pack from Monos is the detachable, interchangeable pouch that fixes to the front of the bag. This smaller bag is the perfect spot to keep the items you need quick and easy access to, like your passport, headphones, keys, and charging cables.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Those who are often guilty of overpacking will get a kick out of this pick. No matter how much you stuff inside of it, the bag is extremely lightweight to carry day in and day out. It's made of a blend of tough, TPU-coated polyester and durable nylon paneling, and has padded shoulder straps which add to the comfort. Also notable is its harness feature that distributes weight and prevents you from suffering from any back or shoulder pain later on.

Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L

Refugio Daypack 30L

For the adventurous traveler who needs a bag with more function than flair, Patagonia's largest daypack is perfect for work trips and long hikes alike. Built to serve you, it's full of organizational features and compartments.

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

The Rowledge

At last, your very own Mary Poppins bag. Well, not quite, but it might as well be. Don't be fooled by this bag's streamlined look—it can fit a lot. Yet, its dimensions qualify as a personal item, meaning it fits perfectly under the seat in front of you.

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dakota Neoprene Backpack

First of all, this bag is made with 23 recycled water bottles! So it's already a winner. Water-resistant and roomy, it comes with a zippered pouch that can be used as a shoe bag, or for any other essentials you want easy access to. We also love its sleek look—how could you not?

Aer Travel Pack 3 Black

Travel Pack 3 Black

A true traveler's bag, the main compartment of this backpack lays open flat, so you can pack it like a regular suitcase. It has designated laptop and organizational compartments, plus multiple additional pockets for all your other must-haves. The zippers are also lockable, and there's a pocket just for your AirTag !

Tumi Celina Backpack

Celina Backpack

Tumi is one of the most trusted names in luggage, so you can be sure this bag is of high quality. It has lots of pockets and compartments, but the best feature has to be the Tumi Tracer, which will allow you to track and locate your bag should you misplace it.

Shinola Detroit The Runwell Backpack

The Runwell Backpack

If you're looking to invest in a bag that can really go the distance, it's gotta be high-quality leather. You can trust that this will hold up, and best of all, it'll only look better as it wears in during all your trips to come.

Troubador Aero Backpack

Aero Backpack

This top-loading backpack not only features a main inner section with a ton of clever pockets, but there's also a 3D top pocket for easy access to your toiletries, a dedicated space for shoes, and a separate padded compartment for a laptop. Even better: It doubles as a duffle carrier for days when you'd prefer carrying your things as a crossbody.

Beis Travel The Expandable Backpack

The Expandable Backpack

With pockets and compartments galore, the Beis backpack has endless room for all your essentials. And once it's all filled up? You can unzip the expandable zipper for even more space! Never thought you'd be so excited about a backpack? We get it.

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack

The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Known for the suitcases everybody can't get enough of, Away also offers a range of backpacks that feature the same intelligent designs and user-friendly features. The aptly-named Everywhere knapsack is made with water-resistant nylon and features a wrap-around zipper for extra access in the main compartment.

Vera Bradley Lay Flat Travel Backpack

Lay Flat Travel Backpack

Known for its beloved bright prints and colorful designs, Vera Bradley offers a range of convenient styles for traveling—including this carry-all. What makes this one stand out is its lay-flat feature: it unzips on three sides and opens like a suitcase for easy accessibility and ultra-organized packing. Oh, and this floral print will stand out in a crowded airport full of black and gray backpacks.

Headshot of Meg Donohue

Meg is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com where she researches trends, tests products, and looks for answers to all your burning questions. She also co-writes a monthly column, Same Same But Different . Meg has previously written for Cosmopolitan and Town & Country . Her passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and sustainability. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.

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Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

Mallory Paige Testing the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Backpack

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 14 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check-in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on November 15, 2023, to include additional information on our testing, as well as ensure that our selection is still current.

  • Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
  • Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
  • Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
  • Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
  • Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
  • Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack
  • Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

  • Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
  • Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
  • Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
  • Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
  • Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

Product Badge

  • Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
  • Burly construction
  • No details are overlooked in the design
  • Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 to 35 liters.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

  • Capacity 33 L
  • Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
  • Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
  • Compartment access Zippered top access
  • Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Cheap price
  • Available in many different fabric prints
  • Unique insulated cooler pocket
  • Not many travel-specific features
  • Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price of $75, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. It has a padded laptop sleeve, a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe, and an organizer pocket perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, and thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but it would have been nice to have had in a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does it all, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

  • Capacity 40 L
  • Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
  • Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
  • Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
  • Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
  • External compression straps limit the volume well
  • Comfortably padded grab handles
  • Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

  • Capacity 45 L
  • Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
  • Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
  • Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
  • Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Excellent storage organization options
  • High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
  • No frame to speak of
  • Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

  • Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
  • Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
  • Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
  • Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Multiple ways to carry the pack
  • Many different storage and internal organization options
  • Burly external fabric
  • Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause — the Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers, and anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

  • Capacity 25 L
  • Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
  • Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
  • Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
  • Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
  • White interior for easy viewing
  • Floating laptop sleeve
  • Not very much interior organization
  • Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

  • Capacity 27.5 L
  • Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
  • Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
  • Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Dang good looking
  • High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
  • Supper cushioned back panel
  • Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
  • Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions.  And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

  • Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
  • Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
  • Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
  • Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
  • Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
  • Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
  • Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsable configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the pack. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MCL does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

  • Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
  • Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
  • Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
  • Plenty of organizational pockets
  • Bright interior
  • Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

  • Capacity 28 L
  • Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
  • Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
  • Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
  • Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
  • On the heavier side
  • TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L , 42L , 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

  • Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
  • Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
  • Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
  • Built to last design and materials
  • Removable webbing hip belt
  • Suspension doesn’t pack away
  • Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check and Arc’teryx Granville packs (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Patagonia Black Hole 25L Backpack

  • Weight 1 lb., 6.9 oz.
  • Dimensions 22" x 10.5" x 5.5"
  • Material 300-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Heavy-duty outer fabric
  • Cheaper price
  • No hip belt

The Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) is a rugged classic, and now one that is fully revamped with an eye toward sustainability.

The 300-denier ripstop nylon outer is newly 100% postconsumer recycled material, and has a novel recycled TPU laminate for extra durability — all coming together to make this pack 100% recycled material from the body to the lining and the straps. We’ve long been a fan of the entire Black Hole line , and that’s doubly true now that it’s made from recycled materials.

The side mesh pockets are great for water bottles. And the back laptop sleeve is well padded and will hold most 15″ laptops. The organizational pockets inside and on top fit all of your little essentials, making them easy to find. The signature Black Hole gear loops are also great for tying on extra gear or wet clothes that need drying.

One thing that the majority of our testers asked for with this pack was a hip belt, which it unfortunately lacks. Without it, the load can feel a bit unsettled on our backs, and a bit of stability would go a long way on this pack.

We’ve been using a Black Hole backpack for years now, and it still doesn’t show any signs of wear or tear. For durability, it’s one of the best travel backpacks you’ll find.

Mountain Hardwear Redeye 45 Travel Pack

  • Weight 3 lbs., 2.1 oz.
  • Dimensions 24" x 15" x 12"
  • Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design, additional top entry
  • Material 500-denier CORDURA nylon

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • Burly 500-denier CORDURA nylon construction
  • Front and rear grab handles make loading easy
  • Cylinder shape won’t be the most space-efficient
  • Strap storage isn’t the most compact

Fine-tuned and ready to be thrown around, the Mountain Hardwear Redeye 45 Travel Pack ($180) hit all the marks for what we’re looking for in a travel pack for long climbing excursions.

Styled after climbing packs and haul bags, the Redeye keeps a clean profile inside and out and provides access to the internal 45 liters of space via either a full back panel clamshell or an additional top entry. Grown onto the outside is a full-length panel concealing a number of mesh pockets as well as a single water bottle pocket opposite.

We broke in our Redeye with a quick alpine climb in Washington’s granite playground of Washington Pass, where it shouldered a load of climbing kit with aplomb. The rear clamshell design is ideal for fishing out bits of gear as you rack up, and the back panel provided enough cushion to avoid feeling any protruding cam lobes.

Not just a climbing pack, however, the Redeye comes with a number of smart travel features that makes splitting time a cinch. A 15-inch padded laptop sleeve will fit most computers on the market, and the suspension straps are fully stowable, although it wasn’t the most seamless execution we’ve seen.

You probably won’t want to haul it up your next off-width chimney, but a full day of travel in search of one is absolutely on the menu for the Redeye 45 .

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

  • Capacity 32 L
  • Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
  • Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
  • Material 420-denier recycled nylon

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

  • TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
  • Many options for organization
  • Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
  • Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like it’s all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

Peak Design Travel Pack 45L at SEATAC

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Osprey Farpoint Travel Pack in Iceland

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend-Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30 liter range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Arc’teryx Granville 25 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

Peak Design Travel Backpack on the Back of a Traveller in Seattle International Airport Looking out on the Tarmac.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MCL , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 liters, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snuggly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Peak Design Travel Backpack Clamshell Access

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 , rough and tumble Patagonia Black Hole 25L , and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become our dedicated laptop toter for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Mountain Hardware Redeye Travel Backpack Clamshell Packing

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Patagonia MCL 45L Travel Backpack Carry Options

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack in order to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Matador SEG30 Travel Backpack Storage Options

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 Travel Backpack

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Peak Design Travel Pack at SEATAC

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get, with the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) coming in behind it at 25 liters.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), Mountain Hardwear Redeye ($180), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

Peak Design Travel Pack in Denver

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which at 24 liters compressed easily slides under a seat.

The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2022

The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2022

Active travel demands versatility from your clothing. To help you travel with ease and confidence, we scoured the latest styles to determine the best women’s travel pants for 2022.

The Best Men’s Travel Pants of 2024

The Best Men’s Travel Pants of 2024

We’ve tested the best wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying, and comfortable men’s travel pants of the year. Pack your bags and get ready for adventure.

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Pro Gear Tester Mallory Paige is always up for adventure. Whether motorcycle camping across North America (with her dog in a sidecar!), paddling whitewater in a tiny packraft, or traveling in a van she’s always ready to pivot and turn a challenge into an opportunity. When not busy obsessing about gear, she can be found building an off-grid homestead in the remote mountains of Colorado.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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The 12 Best Luggage Straps of 2024

Keep your items secure with a durable and supportive luggage strap.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

In This Article

Jump to a Section

  • Our top picks
  • Tips for Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Hate the idea of checking a bag at the airport? You're not alone. It's reasonable to fear losing your suitcase, having it open in transit, or seeing someone else inadvertently pick it up at baggage claim. But that's where luggage straps come in handy as they can be used to secure your bag and add another layer of protection in case your zipper fails. Some even have TSA-approved locks for an extra dose of security and, as a bonus, bold colors or designs can help your basic black bag stand out on the carousel. Carrying multiple pieces of luggage? Use a strap to lash them together, making it easier to get through the airport, too.

Our top pick is the Samsonite Luggage Strap which has a standout pattern that's not too garish. Samsonite is a brand we trust for both suitcases and travel accessories, and this strap comes in two versions: one with a TSA-approved lock and one without. 

Best Overall

Samsonite luggage strap.

It has a sturdy buckle and a subtle, stylish pattern.

The belt can loosen and slide off luggage if not used properly.

Samsonite is one of our go-to luggage brands , so it comes as little surprise that we're big fans of the accessories, too — and that includes this luggage strap. The real standout feature is its subtle crescent moon design. While it's a pattern you'll notice at baggage claim, it's not overwhelmingly flashy, especially the black option. 

We also appreciate the durability of this strap and its buckle, as well as the ease of adjusting the size when it's attached to your suitcase. (Note: If you're looking for a luggage strap with a TSA-approved combination lock, Samsonite makes a model of this product with that feature: find it further down our list.)

The Details: Plastic, polyester | 72 x 2 inches | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Best Budget

Ime adjustable luggage strap.

It has a designated spot for your contact information.

It’s as basic as luggage straps come.

Luggage straps are generally pretty affordable, but this single strap is one of the best value products on the market (though you may find a better deal on a set when you factor in the per-strap cost). Price aside, the highlight of this luggage strap is a tag slot where you can put your contact information, just as you would on a bag tag . The downside is it only comes in a navy blue color. We do appreciate that it's adjustable, though, so you are able to use it with most suitcases.

The Details: Plastic, nylon | 71 x 2 inches | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Best Luxury

Rimowa luggage belt.

The aluminum buckle isn't likely to pop open in-transit.

The bold, printed brand name on the strap may not be everyone's style.

If you already love your Rimowa suitcase, consider this over-the-top luggage strap from the luxury brand. Not only does it boldly display the name right across the front, it’s specifically designed to fit Rimowa's Cabin Plus, Check-in M, Check-in L, and Trunk Collection bags. No matter what suitcase you have (or covet), we do love the five colors this luggage strap comes in, including beige and coral. The strap also comes with a two-year warranty.

The Details: Plastic, leather, aluminum | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Most Durable

Tranvers extra long heavy-duty luggage straps.

You can buy this strap in matching sets of two or four.

It's extra long, so it might not fit smaller bags.

For particularly arduous journeys, consider a heavy-duty luggage strap. Though this pick won't win any points for flair, it's really the durability that matters most; the strap is extra thick, so there's less of a chance of it ripping in transit. 

The straps come in sets of two or four and in three colors (red, blue, and black). We recommend using two straps on your suitcase, one in each direction, for extra security. This style is extra long, so it should cover the vertical dimension of most checked bags. And, as an extra bonus, it has a tag slot for your contact information.

The Details: Plastic, polypropylene | 79 x 2 inches | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Most Visible

Gutsdoor adjustable travel luggage strap.

There's a wide variety of patterns that will surely stand out at baggage claim.

It’s only sold in sets of two or four.

If you have a suitcase that blends into a sea of black on the carousel, go bold with your luggage strap like this option with a variety of unmissable patterns. The designs range from rainbow geometric shapes to colorful passport stamps. 

The strap is sold as a set of two or four in all patterns, which means it's easy to double up on your suitcase or share with the whole family. At 77 inches long, this strap is a bit longer than usual (and it's designed to fit suitcases from 20 inches to 28 inches).

The Details: Plastic, polyester | 77 x 2 inches | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Best With a Lock

Samsonite luggage strap, combination lock.

The lock is TSA-approved.

It's on the pricier side, given the extra feature.

Luggage straps do provide security in the sense that they can help keep your bag closed during a journey through the airport, onto the plane, and back again. But they don't protect against theft. If you're a fan of luggage locks and luggage straps, consider going for a two-for-one deal with this luggage strap that features a TSA-approved combination lock. This specific model only comes in bright orange, but Samsonite does make another lockable model with less glaring colors.

The Details: Plastic, polyester, metal | 72 x 2 inches | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Best Cross Strap

Bluecosto cross luggage strap.

There’s a connector piece to prevent the two cross straps from sliding around.

The tag slot is not see-through, which may make it hard to spot if your bag gets lost.

The most secure way to use luggage straps is to make a cross pattern with two straps, wrapping one strap around your suitcase horizontally and another around it vertically. However, this product is already specifically designed to be used in that configuration. There is a special connector piece that keeps the two straps from sliding around, and reduces the chance that either strap accidentally slides off. This pick comes in five bright colors for easy identification, as well as black if that’s more your style.

Saintrygo Luggage Straps Set

The straps come in multicolor and single-color sets.

They're a smidge shorter than standard.

This set of luggage straps is a steal: at $17 for a set of six, that means you're paying less than $3 a strap. Whether you plan on using one or two per suitcase, there are plenty of straps to go around. The straps come in both single-color packs, ranging from black to lime green, or there’s a multi-color set with six different colors. 

Do note that the straps are slightly shorter than standard at just 70 inches long, so you might not be able to fit the strap around a large suitcase if you're wrapping it in the vertical direction. However, you could work around this by connecting two straps end to end.

The Details: Plastic, nylon | 70 x 2 inches | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Best Elastic

Zinz luggage strap.

It will not fit vertically over large suitcases.

The vast majority of luggage straps are made from a woven material that has no give — but this model is an entirely different style. The elastic straps, which are arranged in an X pattern, stretch around the width of your suitcase to help keep it closed and automatically adjust to fit the suitcase. While the strap is stretchy, it's not very long, so it likely won't fit vertically around a large suitcase. But there's another use for this smaller strap: you can use it to attach your personal item to the handle of your rolling checked bag.

The Details: Plastic, nylon | 94.5 x 1.2 inches | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Best to Connect Multiple Bags

Vigorport luggage strap.

They're extra durable to carry the weight of multiple bags.

It takes a lot of adjusting to get the straps positioned just right.

Luggage straps can also be used to connect multiple pieces of luggage, so you only have to use one hand as you're wheeling two, or even three, suitcases through the airport. With these strong straps, you'll have to do quite a bit of adjusting to get the fit just right — you need to make sure the wheels of the additional bags reach the ground, which could be complicated if you end up tilting your bag to roll it instead of holding it upright. Still, we love that this frees up an extra hand for you to use your phone or hold your passport and boarding pass.

The Details: Plastic, nylon | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Best to Attach Carry-ons

Foregoer luggage strap.

It has extra storage for your phone, passport, and other accessories.

It’s not meant to keep your bag closed.

While the elastic luggage strap mentioned earlier on our list can be used to attach carry-on bags to luggage handles, we prefer this model for the task for one main reason: it has a special storage unit that can be used to hold your phone, passport, headphones, or any other small items that you want to have easily accessible. That way you don't have to dig through a smaller bag, which will be securely strapped to your suitcase and potentially harder to access. You can use this luggage strap on both carry-on and checked bags, making it a very versatile tool, but it’s not one you’d leave on your suitcase when checking it in.

Best Personalized

Lillian vernon personalized luggage strap.

You’ll never misidentify your luggage when you’ve got this customized strap on it.

The strap is short.

Forget tag holders — you can embroider your name, phone number, or email right on this strap itself. Or you could choose a nickname or a short phrase as really anything goes, as long as it’s under 16 characters, including spaces. This strap comes in three bright colors for visibility, and you can choose from six different thread colors and two fonts for the embroidery. The one downside is that this strap is short, measuring just 64 inches at its maximum extension. There's a chance it won't fit around large suitcases, so measure your bag before ordering.

The Details: Plastic, polypropylene | 64 x 2 inches | Adjustable | Buckle closure

Tips for Buying Luggage Straps

Choose the right length for your bag.

While most luggage straps are adjustable, double-check the measurements to make sure they can fit around your suitcase. Take into consideration which way you plan to attach the strap as well — the vertical measurement will be longer than the horizontal measurement. 

Consider a unique color or pattern

For visibility purposes, you might want to choose a stand-out color or pattern, which will make your suitcase easily identifiable at baggage claim. That said, if your suitcase itself has a bold pattern, you could opt for a more neutral look for the luggage strap to contrast.

Luggage straps are designed to surround your suitcase, helping to keep it closed. Simply wrap the luggage strap around your packed and zipped suitcase, adjust it to fit snugly, and close the buckle.

Yes, luggage straps are TSA-approved, but they must be removable by the TSA. If the only closure is a buckle, that is acceptable. If there's a lock involved, that specific lock must be TSA-approved.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Stefanie Waldek read dozens of customer reviews and incorporated her own experience to compile a list of the very best luggage straps.

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travel suitcase with backpack straps

5 best backpacks for every travel style

Kristy Tolley

Editor's Note

My purple camo Trans by Jansport backpack served me well for 20-plus years. It accompanied me to several countries, on countless road trips and along many hikes.

However, as I improved my packing strategies and my needs changed, I realized my current backpack situation was not ideal.

My bag lacked padding for my laptop, which I never travel without these days. It didn't include enough compartments for me to stay organized, either. Also, I've lost more than a handful of water bottles over the years, thanks to the short and loose side pockets.

Backpack benefits

The best travel backpacks are durable, well-organized and roomy enough for all your travel essentials.

They can also be more comfortable for frequent use. Because they're better at distributing weight, they're less likely to cause musculoskeletal damage that lugging a heavy tote bag on one shoulder might.

"Carrying heavy weight on one side of the body can cause a forward tilt of the shoulder, and poor posture, which can lead to shoulder and back pain long-term," said Dr. Jenny Yu, head of medical affairs at Healthline Media (which is owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures).

Backpacks are also easier to manage than rolling carry-ons, making your sprint to your connecting flight a little more efficient.

It was time to level up. Choosing the perfect replacement was a daunting task, though. I researched several models from different brands in varied price ranges.

Considerations when choosing a backpack

The type of bag you choose depends largely on how you plan to use it. Will it serve as your go-to bag for day trips, work commutes and road trips? Or, do you need a sturdy backpack for camping, hiking and long-haul flights or extended travel?

Once you narrow down your needs, it's easier to hone in on your other requirements.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Your travel plans and how you plan to use your backpack will likely determine how small or large your bag should be.

A park day out with the kids or a cruise port shore excursion may just require a small (6–10L) bag. Daypacks, typically 10–30L, are fine for your work commute or hiking. For travel purposes — from weekend getaways to multiday vacations — backpacks in the 30–45L range are your best bet.

On most U.S. airlines, a 45L backpack is the maximum size carry-on allowed. If you're flying on a budget carrier, you'll probably want to stick with something under the 40L range.

For packing purposes, a 45L bag is a good option if you're not bringing another carry-on. It should be able to hold four large packing cubes, a medium packing cube and a toiletry bag. This size fits in the overhead compartment.

Storing your backpack in the overhead bin? It shouldn't be larger than 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

You can fit two large packing cubes, a medium cube and a small toiletry bag in a 35L backpack. It should fit under the seat in front of you on the aircraft.

If you want to ensure your backpack fits under the seat, it can't exceed 18 by 14 by 8 inches, according to airline policy.

Related: How to tell if your backpack counts as a personal or carry-on item.

Backpacks can feature a variety of anti-theft components — some styles are more robust than others.

You may not need your bag to be at a Fort Knox level of security, but it should inclfeatures that can protect you (and your belongings) from thieves or pickpockets.

Consider a backpack constructed with slash-resistant material and straps, as well as lockable zippers.

Bags that offer RFID protection are lined with a special material that blocks accidental payments and intentional skimming of credit cards. They can prevent criminals from electronically accessing your personal information.

Compartments

If you use packing cubes, this might not be as big of a consideration for you. Even with packing cubes, I like having smaller sections for things I need to access easily — my phone, chargers, reporter notebook (yeah, I'm old school), passport and other necessities.

What do you typically pack in your backpack? As I mentioned, a laptop pocket is essential for me. I also like to have hidden pockets to store my passport, COVID-19 vaccine card and wallet. Separate areas to stash my sunglasses, chargers, keys and other important items I travel with are important, too.

Keeping the above features in mind, I reviewed five backpacks ranging in price and style. Here's the round-up.

Related: Here's what to pack in a carry-on bag every time you travel

Patagonia — Black Hole 32L Travel Pack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

What I liked

The Patagonia Black Hole 32L Travel Pack is completely constructed with 100% recycled materials, including the body fabric, lining and webbing. It comes in a handful of colors — gold, red, black and gray/blue. The shinier shell has a polyurethane coating that makes it water-resistant.

This bag is also Fair Trade Certified™ sewn (as are all Patagonia products). Since the program launched in 2014, it has impacted more than 75,000 workers in 10 countries.

The lightweight bag packs flat and is very flexible. At first glance, I wondered if it would be structured enough to protect my laptop. However, the padded pocket worked well and fits most 15-inch laptops. The pocket is also slightly elevated from the bottom of the bag, which can protect your laptop if the bottom of your bag gets wet.

Both my 28- and 40-ounce insulated water bottles fit easily in the side pockets.

I tested this bag (along with the Away F.A.R. backpack) during a recent long-haul trip to South Africa. I packed:

  • My 13-inch laptop.
  • A 28-ounce insulated water bottle (filled once I passed through security).
  • Compression socks.
  • Travel pillow.
  • Cross-body bag containing my passport, credit cards and money.
  • A small reporter's notebook.
  • Two paperback books.
  • Makeup bag.
  • Toiletry bag.
  • A large Ziploc bag filled with snacks (protein bars, as well as bags of almonds and trail mix.

Filled, the backpack weighed just under 10 pounds.

I was impressed with the number of items I was able to pack. This backpack is like the clown car of backpacks. The sturdy straps held it in place and it never felt cumbersome to carry.

The pocket section of the bag zips open so you can lay it flat for going through the TSA scanner. (If you have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck , you won't need to worry about that, though.)

I liked the two rows of daisy chain-style loops on the outside of the bag. It's good for hanging bulky items or things you don't want to get crushed inside.

If you plan to long-distance hike with this bag, there's a hole at the top for the hose of your hydration pack.

Other considerations

The Patagonia Black Hole Travel Pack doesn't offer RFID protection. However, if the wallet that holds your ID and credit cards has the RFID protection feature, you should be covered.

Although this bag has an air mesh back panel for increased ventilation, other reviewers commented that the airflow wasn't substantial enough to prevent a sweaty back. I didn't encounter that issue. This bag doesn't include a hip belt, which could provide more stability. I typically don't use hip belts on backpacks, so I didn't mind it missing here.

Sizing: 16.93 by 7.87 by 23.03 inches, 1.1 pounds (empty).

Price: Around $249 on Amazon.

Arlo Skye — The Backpack

The brand's luggage line consistently garners high praise from reviewers, so I figured its one backpack offering, The Backpack , would be pretty solid. Color options are mint and black. It arrived tucked in a large reusable drawstring bag that included a handy silica gel pack, one of my essential travel accessories .

travel suitcase with backpack straps

I tested a black backpack. I liked the bag's sleek design and leather top handle and trim. The water-resistant material is a nylon and polyester blend.

A tiny zip pocket at the top of the bag is the ideal spot to stash my earbuds, charger or a small pair of sunglasses. If you don't have a clunky set of keys, they may fit as well. I set off my car alarm attempting to shove mine into the small pocket.

The front section has a zippable mesh pocket, and two RFID-lined slip pockets for secure storage of your credit cards, ID and passport. A decent-size (9.5 by 7 inches) front pocket with a zipper provides easy access to your smartphone, keys and other items. There was room enough to store my Kindle (without its cover). There's also an attached key leash.

A middle section provides an open pocket for a tablet or iPad, and two smaller pockets — one of them, an expandable mesh. The third (back) portion of the bag is a padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 15" laptop.

The backpack also features a wide back sleeve that fits securely over the handle of carry-on luggage.

If you need a backpack that could serve as your one and only carry-on, this may not work for you. It's roomy enough for basics and a minimalist packer could possibly fit a weekend's worth of clothes and essentials in it. However, I think it would be a better option for your daily commute, weekend road trips or day trips.

The water bottle pockets were kind of useless to me. The pockets don't expand and there is no give in the material, so you're somewhat limited in bottle size.

It barely fit my 28-ounce insulated water bottle (I couldn't push the bottle all the way to the bottom of the pocket). However, you would probably be fine with a purchased 16-ounce plastic bottle of water.

I don't like storing my water bottle inside my backpack because of potential leaks (and water damage to my laptop), so I ended up carrying my 40-ounce bottle separately. There is a metal hook on one side of the bag so you could attach an insulated bottle to it with a carabiner.

Sizing: 11.8 by 7.5 by 17.7, 2.1 pounds (empty).

Price: $250.

Away — F.A.R. Backpack 26L

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Away has a sizable fan base ( including TPG staffers ) thanks to its stylish hard-side rolling luggage.

F.A.R. (For All Routes) is the brand's recently launched outdoor line. The collection is designed with frequent travelers and outdoor adventurers in mind. Bags in the collection are constructed with lightweight 100% recycled polyester, and are abrasion- and water-resistant. The zippers and webbing are also made with recycled materials.

I tested the 26L backpack . The bag arrived wrapped in a plant-based compostable plastic bag, which is in line with the brand's push toward offering more sustainable and environmentally friendly products.

It's available in five colors — black, vivid blue, red-orange, burgundy and (dark) green.

As I mentioned above, I tested this bag on my return long-haul flight from South Africa. On the trip home, it contained everything I packed in the Patagonia backpack, as well as two small bags of souvenirs I snagged at the airport on the way out.

Since it's a bit smaller than the Patagonia backpack I carried first, I was concerned it wouldn't hold everything I started my trip with. I was pleasantly surprised it did with no issues.

The two side pockets for water bottles are roomy. The features list reads that the pockets fit up to 32-ounce bottles, but my 40-ounce insulated bottle fits easily (though I traveled with a 28-ounce bottle).

This backpack had lots of pockets and hidden storage. The front compartment has interior slip pockets for easy access to small essentials like your wallet, smartphone, passport, a book or two, chargers and other items. It was a slightly tighter fit once filled, but I suspected it would be given the size difference.

The main compartment features a larger slip pocket for your laptop. The padding wasn't quite as thick as the Patagonia laptop pocket, but it was enough that I didn't worry about it being damaged.

Two hidden zipper pockets on each side are so well concealed I wouldn't have found them if I hadn't read the features card included with the backpack.

You can attach your keys or other items to the bag's wide front webbing loops. Also, the thick backpack trolley strap slips easily onto your luggage handle.

In addition to the backpack I tested, the F.A.R. line includes three sizes of duffles, a 45L backpack, a water bottle bag, a packing cube, a zippered pouch and a messenger bag.

Of the five backpacks I tested, this was probably my favorite. Based on my experience with this brand, I will likely add more F.A.R. products to my travel arsenal.

Sizing: 19 by 12.6 by 7.7 inches, .78 pounds (empty).

Price: $130.

Solo Re:Claim

travel suitcase with backpack straps

One of the products in Solo's Re:Cycled collection, the Solo Re:Claim is made from Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a type of strong, lightweight and 100% recyclable plastic. The collection is reasonably priced and includes additional backpacks, totes, rolling cases, laptop sleeves and other products (all constructed from recyclable plastic).

The bag I tested was heather-grey. It also comes in burgundy and navy (though the navy backpacks were unavailable at the time of writing this).

The backpack is water-resistant and comes with a five-year limited warranty. It features a smaller padded front zippable pocket with compartments for pens, cards, your phone and a tablet, as well as a small clip for your keys. A roomy fully-padded compartment fits 11- to 15.6-inch laptops.

There are mesh pockets on each side for water bottles. Although the pockets give a little, I struggled to squeeze in my 28-ounce insulated bottle. Once I got it in, though, I felt confident it wouldn't fall out.

A tag was included in the packaging with information about Solo's partnership with the National Forest Foundation. The company plants trees with every bag sold from its Recycled Collection.

I didn't really care for the two handles at the top of the backpack. They were located on each side of the opening with a wrap-like velcro to connect them. It was kind of annoying to have to take it apart every time I wanted to unzip the bag.

I usually travel with a 40-ounce bottle, which did not fit in the side pockets.

Sizing: 16.5 by 12.25 by 6.75 inches, 1.2 pounds (empty).

Price: About $67.26 on Amazon.

Briggs & Riley — @Work Large Cargo Backpack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

This backpack is ideal for work commuters and business travelers who need a sleek and professional-looking bag to carry their business essentials. It's also roomy enough to pack clothes and toiletries you'd need for an overnight stay if needed.

The hefty price tag might intimidate you. However, when you consider the company's lifetime replacement warranty and consistently positive customer reviews, I feel like it's worth the investment.

It has an interior organizer, main and laptop compartments, a durable fabric lining, an RFID-blocking pocket with two hidden credit card pockets that hold a wallet and passport.

There are also three elastic slip pockets with leather tabs to organize smaller items such as cords and USB drives and two more slip pockets to store other items.

Its top cargo pocket on the front panel holds travel accessories. It features two elastic pen loops, a large main compartment, a full-length slip pocket in the main compartment for storing folders or files, as well as two elastic pockets in the main compartment for storing cables and chargers.

It also includes a laptop compartment with a padded sleeve, plus a padded tablet pocket in the laptop compartment.

The exterior is 1600D ballistic nylon that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. The front panel also has a leather nameplate on the front (that you can monogram), a deep zip pocket on the front panel for easy access to items such as sunglasses or a smartphone, top-grain leather carry handles and a gusseted side u-zip pocket with an elastic band for a water bottle.

The backpack has adjustable padded straps, an aerated mesh back padding and a slip-through back panel that allows the backpack to slide over a luggage handle and bottom corner guards to protect the backpack from wear and tear.

It's very comfortable. I'm surprised at how light it feels given its large size. I tested it during my daily office commute. It holds my laptop, charger, wallet, phone and an extra pair of shoes.

I also appreciated the light contrasting shade of the bag's inside lining — it's so much easier to find my items.

Color choices are limited to black and dark grey. However, if you're using it for daily work or business travel, you want something that looks professional and this definitely fits the bill.

Additionally, there aren't any real external gear attachment options. The bag does include a removable luggage tag, which is nice.

Sizing: 19 by 15 by 8 inches, 3.2 pounds (empty).

Price: $379.

Related: What your luggage brand says about you

Bottom line

A well-organized and sturdy travel backpack is worth its weight in gold.

If you expect a lot out of your bag and want it to last through all your future travels, you may want to spend a little more on it. If you travel occasionally and just need a backpack for convenience, lower-priced options should suffice for your needs.

Before you buy your next backpack (or other travel essentials), check out TPG's guides to airline and shopping portals, as well as the best credit cards for online shopping. That way, the gear you buy for your next trip can also help you pay for it.

Do you have a backpack you can't do without? Let us know in the TPG Lounge or email us at [email protected]. We're always on the lookout for products that make travel easier and we would love to hear from you.

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best carry-on backpacks.

Enjoy hands-free travel with a versatile carry-on backpack.

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Man looking over his shoulder as he walks through an alley wearing a red Cotopaxi Allpa 35L backpack.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is the top backpack pick.

Not sure whether to take a rolling suitcase or a travel backpack on the plane? Both types of carry-on luggage certainly have their merits, but if you like keeping your arms and hands free when traveling, a backpack is the right choice for you. Furthermore, compared to a hard-sided suitcase , it's easier to squeeze a malleable backpack into an overhead bin or under the seat. And if your vacation is focused on adventure travel, you might value a durable pack on your back over wheels on the ground.

U.S. News compiled this list from extensive research along with consumer reviews. Whatever your reason for choosing a backpack, there are plenty on the market to satisfy your needs. Read on for the best carry-on travel backpacks.

The Top Carry-on Backpacks for 2023

Best overall: cotopaxi allpa 35l, best budget: zomake lightweight packable backpack 30l, best lightweight: osprey farpoint 40, best for business: aer travel pack 3, best for international travel: solgaard lifepack endeavor (with closet) – large, best for weekend getaways: topo designs global travel bag 30l, best with wheels: matein rolling backpack – 17-inch, best for women: osprey fairview 40, best for men: peak design travel backpack 45l.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues. Dimensions of backpacks are height by width by depth.)

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L in turquoise against white background.

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds

What sets this backpack apart: When it comes to bag travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs a serious punch. The carry-on backpack is available in three sizes – 42L, 35L and 28L – and a variety of colors. (In true Cotopaxi style, you can even purchase a colorful Del Día backpack .) The 35L size not only fits everything you need for your next getaway, but it's also TSA-compliant as a carry-on item. On the outside, the Allpa features a removable waist belt, a padded laptop sleeve on the side, anti-theft zippers, carabiner lash loops, a sternum strap and a front zippered pocket. The backpack straps can even be tucked away if you're looking to save more room in the overhead bin or you want to carry the bag via its grab handles.

The bag opens suitcase-style; inside, you'll find one large zippered mesh compartment on the right and a subdivided zippered mesh compartment on left, providing ample space for all your clothes, shoes and accessories. (Consider purchasing the highly-rated and colorful Cotopaxi packing cubes for extra organization.) What's more, you'll find a rain cover inside despite the water-resistant bag already being TPU-coated.

Travelers appreciate: Travelers rave about this carry-on backpack, praising its durability and the way it can fit everything needed for weeklong or longer trips. Some reviewers, however, noted they wished the 35L came equipped with a water bottle pocket like the 42L.

Price: $200 or less Shop now: Cotopaxi

Dimensions: 19 x 13 x 7 inches | Weight: 0.74 pounds

What sets this backpack apart: If you're planning to hike or kayak on your next getaway, make sure you have the ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Backpack 30L in your back pocket – literally. This travel backpack can be folded into a compact pouch and tucked away in a larger carry-on bag if you're planning to only use it as a daypack. The lightweight travel bag is both tear- and water-resistant. With all of its pockets – including one on each side for water bottles or umbrellas – you'll be able to fit everything you need for an adventure-filled trip.

Travelers appreciate: Erin Evans , managing editor at U.S. News & World Report Travel, swears by the backpack, praising its affordability and size. "It can fit enough for a weekend trip, plus it's super useful for hiking, boat excursions and more once you're in your destination because it's so light and water-resistant," Evans says. "I've used it for years and it has held up incredibly well; it comes in so many fun colors, too."

Price: $21.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Read: The Top Underseat Luggage

Osprey Farpoint 40 in dark blue against white background.

Courtesy of Osprey

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 3.47 pounds

What sets this backpack apart: The Osprey Farpoint (or Fairview for women ) is truly an all-in-one travel pack that combines quality with minimal weight. The clamshell-style carry-on bag features a sizeable main compartment (perfect for packing cubes ) along with an easy-to-access zippered laptop sleeve. For extra support and comfort, the backpack includes a sternum strap, back panel, harness and hip belt; the latter three can be stowed away for fully streamlined travel and compression straps can help slim the bag down even more. The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most domestic carry-on size requirements and is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack, which can be brought onto the plane as a personal item.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers appreciate the backpack's quality and durability, and confirm that it can hold enough for weeklong trips. However, some are disappointed that the latest model does not have as many compartments as previous versions.

Price: $185 or less Shop now: Osprey | Amazon

Aer Travel Pack 3 in black against white background.

Courtesy of Aer

Dimensions: 21.5 x 13 x 9 inches | Weight: 4.12 pounds

What sets this backpack apart: With a pocket for everything, the clamshell-style Aer Travel Pack 3 (35L) keeps you organized to the max on business trips. Keep your laptop (up to 16 inches) safe in the padded, soft-lined, zippered laptop sleeve, and stow your passport or other travel documents in the quick-access side pocket. The front zippered compartment features several sizes of pockets perfect for chargers, notepads, pens and more. Along with the lay-flat main compartment for clothes, there's also an interior pocket for small accessories and a hidden luggage tracker pocket.

Designed for one-bag travel, the durable Aer Travel Pack 3 also features a water-resistant nylon exterior along with load lifters for a more comfortable fit. You can purchase a hip belt separately.

Travelers appreciate: Recent purchasers of the carry-on backpack appreciate the numerous pockets and thoughtful design. Reviewers also verify that the bag works well not only for business travel, but for longer getaways as well.

Price: $275 or less Shop now: Aer

Dimensions: 12 x 19 x 8.25 inches | Weight: 2.8 pounds (backpack); 0.75 pounds (closet)

What sets this backpack apart: Solgaard's closet system – featured in the Solgaard Carry-On Closet , one of the best carry-on luggage pieces – makes a reappearance in the Lifepack Endeavor carry-on backpack. The 35-liter capacity of the large size is ideal for a carry-on bag, but you can also get the backpack in medium. The hanging closet, which comprises three compartments with compression straps, is removable and can fit up to a week's worth of clothes, making this bag an excellent choice for an international trip. Additionally, the carry-on backpack's zippered expansion allows for 40% more space; you can expand the bag to hold the closet for the plane, then hang the closet in your hotel and use the bag as a daypack.

Inside the bag, you'll find two compartments: the Lifezone and the Workzone. The Lifezone holds the closet as well as multiple pockets for sunglasses, toiletries and more. The Workzone includes laptop storage and additional pockets for work accessories. The bag's exterior features two side pockets for water bottles, a suitcase seatbelt and a sternum strap, as well as four secret, quick-grab pockets for valuable travel items such as a passport or credit cards. The Lifepack Endeavor is made from upcycled, ocean-bound plastic, making it a good pick for sustainable travel .

Travelers appreciate: Recent travelers say that the bag fits well under the seat if compressed, and in the overhead bin if expanded. They highly appreciate the organization and ease-of-travel the closet provides.

Price: $265 or less Shop now: Solgaard

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L in orange against white background.

Courtesy of Topo Designs

Dimensions: 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches | Weight: 2.62 pounds

What sets this backpack apart: Heading out on a romantic getaway , girls trip or solo adventure for the weekend? Consider taking the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L. The clamshell-style backpack meets most carry-on requirements, is made with abrasion-resistant recycled materials and offers three carry options: stowable backpack straps, a removable and adjustable shoulder strap, and grab handles.

The bag features plenty of internal pockets including a back panel laptop compartment. (Consider purchasing Topo Designs accessory bags, packing cubes and more for added organization.) Externally, you'll find expandable water bottle pockets on each side of the bag. The sternum strap and removable hip belt provide extra support, and the heavy-duty zippers add to the backpack's durability.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers like the high-quality zippers and look of the bag, but some found certain compartments and pockets to be smaller than they prefer.

Price: $199 or less Shop now: Topo Designs

Matein Rolling Backpack (17-inch) in black against white background.

Courtesy of Matein

Dimensions: 19.6 x 13 x 9 inches | Weight: 4.9 pounds

What sets this backpack apart: If you're stuck between roller bags and backpacks, the Matein Rolling Backpack offers the best of both worlds. The 17-inch, 36-liter bag has a hideaway handle at the top and storable backpack straps so the bag can easily transform from a roller bag to a backpack. Water- and abrasion-resistant panel guards on the bottom help protect the bag when you're rolling it on the ground.

Besides the large main compartment, the clamshell-style backpack features a second zippered compartment to hold files, an organization compartment with multiple pockets, and mesh water bottle pockets on the sides. It comes in three colors: black, blue and floral. For a larger option, the 18-inch version has a 45-liter capacity.

Travelers appreciate: Travelers say that the bag is sturdy and the wheels maintain their durability over rigorous travel. Reviewers also recommend the bag for school and work.

Price: $99.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Matein

Read: The Top Rolling Duffel Bags

Osprey Fairview 40 in red against white background.

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 3.44 pounds

What sets this backpack apart: Comfort meets quality with the Osprey Fairview 40 carry-on backpack. The bag's back panel, hip belt and harness system feature mesh that improves ventilation and reduces chafing, and all three can be packed away for streamlined travel. Additionally, weight is transferred from the harness to the hip belt through the backpack's LightWire frame suspension. The Fairview 40 also comes with padded handles and a padded shoulder strap if you want to switch up your carry style to over-the-shoulder.

The clamshell-style backpack includes a main compartment with interior compression straps as well as a front pocket, an external toiletries pocket, a quick-access zippered laptop compartment and a sternum strap. Like the Farpoint 40 for men , the Fairview 40 is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack (sold separately).

Travelers appreciate: Recent backpack purchasers praise the high quality of the bag and recommend purchasing packing cubes, which work more effectively with the internal compression straps.

Price: $185 or less Shop now: REI | Backcountry

Read: The Top Weekender Bags for Women

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L in black and gray against white background.

Courtesy of Peak Design

Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 11 inches (expanded); 22 x 13 x 9.5 (standard) | Weight: 4.5 pounds

What sets this backpack apart: One of the larger-capacity backpacks on this list at 45L, the Peak Design Travel Backpack is the perfect choice for one-bag travel. It meets most international airline requirements and can collapse to 35L for a more manageable daypack. The sleek weatherproof design includes shoulder straps, a sternum strap and a hip belt that can all be tucked away, as well as expandable water bottle pockets on the side and quick-grab pockets for your passport, wallet and other valuables.

Anti-theft, abrasion-resistant zippers are especially helpful as the bag is recommended for those who travel with photography equipment – in which case the Peak Design Camera Cube could come in handy. The carry-on backpack opens clamshell-style. Inside, you'll find a large main compartment with a divider layer, as well as zippered mesh pockets and padded laptop and tablet sleeves. The bag is sustainably built, being Fair Trade Certified and 100% carbon neutral, and you can even purchase it pre-owned .

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers, especially photographers, rave about the backpack. They appreciate how much the bag can hold as well as its durability. Some, however, warn that the bag isn't the most comfortable.

Price: $299.95 or less Shop now: Peak Design | Amazon

Read: The Top Travel Backpacks for Men

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Leilani Osmundson will always pick a backpack over a suitcase when it comes to carry-on luggage. She's taken her Cotopaxi Allpa 35L everywhere, from a romantic getaway in Colorado's wine country to an adventure-filled weeklong road trip around Iceland. Osmundson used her own experience with travel backpacks along with extensive research to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Soft-sided Luggage
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  • The Top Neck Pillows
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  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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The 10 Best Luggage Straps for Suitcases and Bags [2023]

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Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

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The 10 Best Luggage Straps for Suitcases and Bags [2023]

Things To Consider With Luggage Straps

1. a set for all the family, 2. a luggage strap from a premium brand, 3. budget-friendly but high-quality luggage strap, 4. adjustable packing straps to suit your needs, 5. a value pack to get more straps for your money, 6. elastic luggage straps for an easy fit, 7. a durable luggage belt to last you years, 8. a stylish luggage strap you’ll be able to spot, 9. an adjustable strap option that’s easy to recognize, 10. luggage straps that will speed through security, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Whether it’s for fun or business, traveling has never been easier than it is today. However, a huge concern travelers have is making sure their belongings are safe and sound while they’re on their journey.

Luggage straps can give you some peace of mind. They help keep your suitcase closed and secure, so you don’t have to worry about losing anything.

A good luggage strap should be able to reliably keep your suitcase closed without worrying about it popping open mid-travel. However, before you just pick the first one you find, there are some things to consider.

Luggage strap length

The first thing you need to consider when looking at luggage straps to buy is their length. If you buy a strap that’s too long for your suitcase, it won’t effectively hold your bag closed. A strap that’s too short, instead, will essentially be useless.

Most straps are adjustable to some extent, which means they can fit a variety of luggage sizes or shapes.

Bottom Line: You should look at the minimum and maximum lengths of a strap before you purchase it.

Luggage strap material

You must also weigh the pros and cons of different materials before purchasing a luggage strap.

Straps can come in a variety of materials, each of which has its merits.

  • Elastic can be stretched around different-sized bags and will snap tighter to keep them secure. However, elastic can be overstretched.
  • Nylon and polyester are strong. However, they can start to fray.

You’ll also want to look at the material of a strap’s buckle or fastener. Poly-plastic blends are durable and will withstand being jostled and thrown around. Thinner materials may cost less, but they’re less durable.

Luggage strap security

Since luggage straps are meant to secure your belongings, the type of security features a strap has should be considered.

There are a few types of ways straps can be secured:

  • Sliding Fastener: This is the simplest but also the least secure option. The strap will loop through the fastener, holding the fabric in place.
  • Buckle: This is a mid-level security option. Each end of the strap will have part of the buckle that will snap together once placed around your bag.
  • Code: Some straps will come with a security code option, similar to a padlock, and won’t open unless the right code is entered.

Type of luggage strap

Luggage straps can also differ by their “type,” or rather, the way they’re meant to be placed on your bag.

Luggage straps can be:

  • X-straps : These straps are meant to keep your bag doubly secured. Typically you’ll have 2 straps — 1 to loop around horizontally and 1 to loop around vertically.
  • Regular Straps : These straps are simple and just wrap once around your bag.
  • Connecting Straps : These straps are meant to keep multiple bags together and strapped closed.

The design is the last thing you should consider when buying a luggage strap. This might seem superficial, but it can make the difference between a useful strap and an essential one. If you have a suitcase that’s non-descript, for example, opting for a neon-colored or patterned luggage strap can help you spot it easily.

However, you might prefer a neutral-colored strap if you want your luggage to blend in or go unnoticed. Some luggage straps can even be customized to also act as luggage tags in case your bag gets lost.

Hot Tip: Check out our guide to the best checked luggage bags for any traveler !

The 10 Best Luggage Straps for Suitcases and Bags

There are multiple options for luggage straps, and it can be hard to tell the differences between them. To help, here is our list of the best ones on the market.

BEST OVERALL: Untethered 4-Pack Luggage Straps

Untethered 4-Pack Luggage Straps

If you’re looking for luggage straps that will suit any type of trip you need to pack for, this pack of 4 by Untethered is a good option to start with.

Because you get 4 straps in 1 set, you’re able to adjust the placement however you prefer. You can use 2 straps per bag for extra security, or you can use 1 if that’s all you need.

The straps are also designed to withstand 400 pounds of tension, making them more than adequate for any travel.

Due to their bright color, these straps also double as an easy eye-catcher. You can spot your suitcase as soon as it hits the luggage carousel or keep an eye on it at a distance without worry.

What We Like:

  • 6 feet long

What We Don’t Like:

  • Buckle can come undone if too tight

UPGRADE PICK: Samsonite Luggage Strap

Samsonite Luggage Strap

If your primary reason for getting a luggage strap is to keep your suitcase from being upended and rifled through, Samsonite has an option for you.

This luggage strap comes with a combination lock that you can customize to ensure only you’re able to open your bag. The buckle is also super durable. You don’t have to worry about it chipping or snapping while your bag is tossed around.

While some combination straps aren’t allowed on certain types of transportation due to security concerns, this option is TSA-approved. That means you can use it for all types of air travel. It’s also a bright color, so you can spot your bag from a distance and be on your way.

  • Customizable lock combination
  • No instructions for setting combination

SwissGear Adjustable Luggage Strap

SwissGear Adjustable Luggage Strap

People looking for an affordable luggage strap to add a little extra peace of mind to their travels should consider this option from SwissGear.

Equipped with a snap-lock buckle, it’s an easy-to-use strap that you can adjust to fit most bags that fall within the standard luggage size range.

Since the strap is made of webbed polypropylene, you don’t have to worry about it ripping or fraying during your trips . You can use this strap every day and it will still hold up.

The strap itself is lightweight, only coming in at 3.5 ounces, so it won’t add extra weight to your bags. That means it’s even a good option for travelers who tend to overpack.

  • Adjustable length
  • Flimsy buckle

MAGARROW 78 x 1 Strap Buckle Packing Straps Adjustable 1-Inch Belt

MAGARROW 78″ x 1″ Strap Buckle Packing Straps

If you don’t want to deal with having multiple luggage straps in different sizes to suit your different suitcases, MAGARROW’s got you covered.

This set comes with 4 separate adjustable straps, which guarantees you can use them on nearly any type of luggage.

The plastic buckles have been designed to be sturdy enough to stand up to most wear and tear they can suffer while traveling. You also don’t have to worry about the buckle coming undone during your trip.

Once you have the strap secured, you can lock it in place, so it stays nice and snug and won’t come loose. Since the strap is also 1.25 millimeters thick, you also don’t have to worry about it tearing easily either.

  • Various color options
  • Not easy to spot

BlueCosto Luggage Straps for Suitcases Travel Belt Suitcase Stra

BlueCosto 4 Pack Luggage Straps

While luggage straps are typically pretty affordable pieces of travel equipment, their cost can add up if you buy multiples. BlueCosto eliminates that extra cost by providing a value pack of 4 straps.

This pack doesn’t just come with 4 straps of questionable quality, however. Instead, you get a pack of high-quality, durable straps that have the potential to last you for years.

In fact, they are made with poly and plastic materials that are tested for their durability to ensure they don’t snap or break during even rough travels.

You can also adjust the strap belts to fit most suitcases you’d want to keep secure, especially checked bags. You can even use the straps to keep multiple bags together.

  • Good quality-cost value
  • Straps don’t vary in length

Luggage Strap, High Elastic Suitcase Adjustable Belt Bag Bungees with Buckles

Luggage Strap, High Elastic Suitcase Adjustable Belt Bag Bungees

Zinz knows that most travelers worry about the security of their luggage and, more importantly, their personal items. That’s why it created this elastic suitcase bungee.

Rather than deal with multiple luggage straps, you can double secure your bag with just one piece of lightweight equipment.

Since it’s made with elastic nylon, you can easily stretch the belt to fit around most suitcases. However, you can also adjust its size to fit more snugly around smaller or larger bags.

When not in use, the belt folds up to be compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand and can be tucked away without taking up much room or getting tangled. It’s also easily cleaned with just a little water if needed.

  • 1-year warranty
  • A little fiddly

Samsonite Luggage Strap

Samsonite is no stranger to making heavy-duty luggage straps. However, this particular model is for anyone who wants a strap belt that will last for years of adventures.

The buckle is strong enough to withstand rugged and rough travels without chipping or breaking. It also won’t snap open unexpectedly, so your belongings will stay safe. The belt itself is made of polypropylene that’s been tested to ensure it won’t tear or snag on anything.

There’s no lock on the belt, making it suitable for most security checks as agents won’t have to break the lock or fidget with a combination. However, the buckle is also durable enough to deter any unwarranted rifling through your things.

  • Easy-to-spot design
  • Only 1 strap

Travelon Luggage Strap

Travelon Luggage Strap

If you want a luggage strap that will also double as a way you can easily pick out which bag is yours on a luggage carousel or in a crowd, you should consider this Travelon option.

While many luggage straps come in different colors, this strap has a unique floral pattern that will set your bag apart from the others.

Since by the time you get to baggage claim, you’re probably ready to be on your way, shaving off time trying to find your luggage can be priceless.

However, it’s also a worthy luggage strap. It’s adjustable, so it will fit most suitcases. It’s also got a thick buckle that won’t easily break even if handled roughly.

  • Eye-catching pattern
  • So pretty they are known to go missing

Adjustable Travel Luggage Strap Suitcase Belt Travel Bag Accessories

Adjustable Travel Luggage Strap

Some people prefer solid colors or neutral tones in their luggage. If you’re not one of those people, this is the luggage strap for you.

With its distinct honeycomb pattern, it’s a colorful strap belt that will liven up any suitcase. It’s also easy to spot at a distance, so you can always keep an eye on your bag, even in a crowd.

The strap measures 6.4 feet in length, but it’s adjustable, so you can fit it around most suitcases without any trouble.

Since it’s also nearly 2 inches wide, it covers enough space on your bag to effectively hold it closed without ripping or straining at the seams. The set also comes with a warranty if anything happens to 1 or both straps.

  • Prone to fraying

Travelkin Cross Luggage Straps TSA Approved

Travelkin Cross Luggage Straps

If you want a combination lock but you’re worried about the extra time it could add to going through security, this option from Travelkin is perfect for you.

The TSA lock on this strap will guarantee you can glide through security screenings without fumbling for a lock or damaging the strap.

TSA agents will have access to a key that will easily unlock the strap, while anyone else would be out of luck without knowing the combination.

The lock is also thick and durable, so it won’t be damaged while in transit. Nor will the strap rip or tear, thanks to its heavy-duty material. Since the belt is also adjustable, you can fit it around most suitcases without any trouble.

  • Easy-to-see pattern
  • Can slip on luggage

A good luggage strap should help you make sure your belongings are safe while you travel. It should keep your luggage closed, no matter how jostled your bag might get in transit.

However, straps can be fastened in different ways and come in different materials that allow different types of protection, so you can be stress-free. We hope that our list has helped you figure out what sort of luggage strap best suits your needs for your next trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people put straps on their luggage.

Luggage straps are used to keep one’s suitcase closed. Some people do this to make sure a bag stays zipped and closed while traveling. Others use luggage straps to avoid their bags being opened and avoid items being stolen. Luggage straps can also be used to keep multiple bags together.

Can you put straps on your luggage?

Typically train, car, and bus travel will allow all types of luggage straps. Luggage straps are also allowed when traveling by plane, boat, or any other way method that includes security checks. However, only straps that can be opened by security personnel are permitted. Check security regulations pre-travel to be sure.

Are luggage straps worth it?

Luggage straps are an essential tool for some people, however, they’re not always necessary. If you rarely travel with a checked bag, for example, you likely won’t need a luggage strap. This is also the case if you don’t tend to overpack or if you’re sure about your suitcase’s security.

Are luggage straps safe?

Since luggage straps are intended to add security to your bags, they are generally considered safe. As long as they’re properly applied and secured, they shouldn’t cause any harm to your bag.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Home » Gear » Best Backpack With Wheels

14 BEST Backpacks With Wheels: (UPDATED 2024)

The more observant amongst you will probably have noticed that traditional backpacks, like submarines and hamburgers, usually don’t have wheels. But what if they did?! Well a backpacks with wheels would allow users to both carry their baggage on their backs or pull it effortlessly behind them – the best of both worlds!

Sometimes, it’s just not possible to use a wheeled suitcase, while at other times, nothing could be better than shrugging that pack off your shoulders and rolling it behind you. Yes, I have been there.

Well, having a rolling backpack with wheels is ALL about convenience in the ever-changing world of travel. And besides, these days we’re all about the hybrids aren’t we? Hybrid cars, hybrid electronics and hybrid backpacks!  Backpacks with wheels can be an absolute blessing. But which rolling backpack is best for your particular needs?

Well I will tell you. I tried and tested a bunch of them and so I could bring together my round-up of the top 12 backpacks with wheels, providing you with all the details you need to make the right choice!

Quick Answer: The Best Backpacks with Wheels

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  • Osprey Fairview Wheeled Travel Pack – Best Overall Backpack With Wheels
  • Nomatic Carry on Pro – Best Wheeled Luggage For Digital Nomads
  • Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack – Best Backpack with Wheels for Adventurers
  • Eagle Creek Tarmak XE4 – Best Carry On Backpack with Wheels
  • Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet Backpack – Best Wheeled Backpack for Hikers 
  • Osprey Farpoint 65 liter – Best Wheeled Backpack for International Travel
  • Samsonite Rewind – Best Lightweight Backpack with Wheels
  • Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack – Best Wheeled Backpack for Business Travelers

Osprey Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack

Osprey Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack

  • Price: > $300
  • > Good for long-term travel
  • > Versatile

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack

  • Price: > $129
  • > Perfect carry on size

Eagle Creek Load Warrior

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE4

  • Price: > $359
  • > 4Ibs 14oz
  • > Expands to almost double its size

Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet Backpack

Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet Backpack

  • Price: > $182
  • > Dedicated laptop sleeve

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Osprey Farpoint

  • Price: > $320
  • > 6.174 lbs (65L version)
  • > Available in 80l size

Samsonite Rewind

Samsonite Rewind

  • Price: > $$$
  • > Lightweight backpack on wheels
  • > Integrated rain cover

Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack

Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack

  • Price: > $130
  • > Padded laptop compartment
  • > Internal divisions to help keep your kit organized

Leece

Wheeled backpacks are kind of a niche product and are not for everybody. There is definitely a dedicated and vibrant market for them but there will never become as ubiquitous as conventional backpacks.

Let’s look at the Pros and Cons of wheeled backpacks as a concept, before we get into the nitty gritty of competing the individual packs to one another.

  • Versatile – functions as a backpack and a suitcase
  • Can carry heavier loads
  • Perfect for airports and city streets
  • Not suitable for hiking
  • Wheels are a point of failure

travel suitcase with backpack straps

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Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Nomatic Carry On Pro

Want to skip the backpack concept altogether in favor of the best-wheeled luggage on the market? Meet the Nomatic Carry On Pro.

The Carry-On Pro is a fully-featured roller suitcase built with the modern traveler in mind. Minimalist and short-term travelers will appreciate all of the sexy organizational pockets and straps for clothing, including a dedicated electronics compartment dubbed the “tech case”. The tough-as-nails suitcase exterior also features a customizable locking system that will keep out any potential thieves.

This suitcase does require a steep investment, which is the only major drawback I can find. Also, if you are seriously set upon on a backpack suitcase combo then this is not for you.

For me, one of the real stand out elements for us was the organisational features on this bag. Being able to separate each side with zippable mesh allows you to keep items like clean and dirty clothes separate. It also has additional zippable pockets on the front too which came in super useful.

  • Perfect carry on size – and lockable for extra security
  • Can survive impacts from a sledgehammer – so yes, very durable
  • Top of the line silent Hinomoto wheels
  • Excellent organizational features
  • Too small for multi-week holidays (unless you are a true minimalist).
  • Need something bigger? Check out the full-sized  Nomatic Check-In Pro

Is the Nomatic Carry-On Pro for Me?

If you are looking for ONE suitcase that will last you a decade or more there is no better option than the Carry-On Pro on the market right now.

Nomatic has been a major player in the travel gear space for a few years now and we here at the Broke Backpacker are huge fans of the quality products and innovations they are putting out! We have being using these packs for years and have tested them out in all number of situations – in fact this pack performed so well for us in Barcelona that some swine was unable to resist the urge to steal it….

Want to learn more about this badass roller suitcase? Check out my full-length Nomatic Carry-On Pro review .

travel suitcase with backpack straps

One of the main reasons you should invest in a backpack with wheels/backpack suitcase combo is for convenience. Well, this backpack takes convenience to a whole new level with the ability to attach a day pack to the front if needed. It’s perfect for backpackers looking to day the weight off their shoulders every now and then.

With this backpack suitcase with wheels, you will have a daypack, backpack, and rolling luggage all in one! The attachable “daypack” (sold separately) is a great design and when utilised is pretty much all you need for a backpacking trip.

A few more great features include a padded top and side handles, compression straps, and a handle that hides away nicely! Storage is pretty good too, there are multiple compartments including a very roomy and spacious main compartment that opens like a suitcase. Osprey makes a few of the best rolling backpacks on the market but this is the best pick.

  • Great for long-term travel
  • Ability to attach day pack
  • Heavy! Over 8 Lbs.
  • Not carry-on size

Is the Osprey Fairview 36 for me?

This one feels nice to the touch, the handle feels good to hold and the wheels roll nicely. It’s a delight pack and unpack and after using it for a few months, it was still in ‘good as new shape’. If you want a backpack with wheels that is convenient, comfortable and able to hold up in multiple situations, then you should invest in this backpack.

What I really like about this backpack, is the ability to attach my Osprey day pack; it’s one of the features that really make this bag a great hybrid for backpacker who wants the best backpack with wheels.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

This 42 Liter rolling backpack is perfect for international travel, especially digital nomads with the detachable sleeve for a 17 inch laptop. We love how this sleeve can be attached in a number of positions depending on your needs.

Plus, it’s probably the coolest looking backpack with wheels – something I haven’t said since the fourth grade! A few of its awesome features include multiple compartments for all your clothes and other items, the top quick stash pocket, multiple grab handles, and treaded off-road wheels so you can roll this bag on challenging terrain!

I really love how this backpack meets carry on restrictions too. This backpack was designed and created for adventurers, so you know it’s going to last use and abuse for years.

  • Perfect carry on size
  • Weatherproof and extremely durable
  • Tuck Away Wheels Cover
  • Tons of pockets and compartments
  • Little bit unsteady
  • Small wheels

Is the Hynes Eagle Travel Wheeled Backpack for me?

We think this is the most durable backpack with wheels available. It can handle any and all-weather and terrain you throw at it, but it might be overkill if you aren’t going on adventures in South America and Africa!

Get this backpack if you want a sleek, beautiful rolling backpack to keep your things safe. If you’re just doing average urban travel, check out our next recommendation instead!

When our testers got their mitts on this bad boy they absolutely loved the rugged material the bag was made from. Being the adventurers we are we were also impressed by how durable the bag was when exposed to the elements and difficult outdoor terrain. If you’re looking for the ultimate hiking backpack with wheels, this is it.

Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

One of the larger of the Osprey wheeled range, we’ve chosen the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack as one of our best-wheeled backpacks for international travel not only for its roominess but also its additional helpful travel-friendly features.

The high clearance level for the slimline wheels makes it possible to roll seamlessly over the majority of surfaces, while this backpack comes not only with comfortable shoulder straps but with a padded hip belt too!

Grab handles on the top and side make it easy for anyone – from baggage handlers to hotel porters – to lift, while compression straps help stabilize the load. If that’s not enough, a zippered top pocket is ideal for easy-access items.

  • High wheel clearance
  • 65-liter capacity
  • Good-looking design
  • Additional grab handles
  • May require additional rain cover
  • Not carry-on compatible
  • Not for adventure travel

Is the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack for me?

When you’re heading off on an international trip, you’re likely to need a greater capacity backpack with wheels then you would on a day to day basis, such as that offered by the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled travel pack. Not just a larger-sized backpack with wheels, the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled also has some great additional features, such as the padded hip belt and zippered top pocket.

I took this to Goa and let me tell now, the streets are not exactly intended for carrying wheeled backpacks along making it a particularly hard test – but the Osprey Farpoint 65 Wheeled held its own and showed no sign of damage after months of life.

In this case for me, the wheels were the area of the case I really wanted to put through its paces. I was impressed by how well they took a beating and how smooth they were over challenging surfaces. Of course, the ability to throw backpack luggage with wheels on your back when things get super rough is the main selling point and I can confirm the transition was just as comfortable as my traditional pack.

OIWAS Backpack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Not only is the OIWAS Backpack with Wheels a phenomenal backpack with wheels, but it is also carry-on compatible with plenty of major airlines.

What’s more, the backpack is just as suited on a weekend break as it is at the office, so it’s ideal for business trips or saving money by only having to buy one bag for both work and play. Being carry-on friendly means you can ditch the secondary daypack and bring it all in one.

Its gentle styling means the OIWAS Backpack is just as suitable for business travel as it is for a sightseeing trip, which makes this backpack with wheels extremely versatile! The super durable material means that it will last years of commuting all over the world!

  • Wheeled backpack with lots of organisation
  • Hidden handle zip
  • Suitable for business and vacation travel
  • Durable materials
  • Weighs 10 lbs
  • Carry-on size might be small for some
  • A bit fiddly to transition from bag to roller

Is the OIWAS Backpack for me?

The OIWAS Backpack takes the crown as our overall best backpack with wheels because of its fantastic features and ultimate versatility. Not only is it a backpack for travel, but also a business bag too – so it works for casual or business travel.

If you’re looking for a good all-around backpack (and more) with wheels, you need to look no further than the OIWAS Backpack!

One of our team took this to the streets Lisbon recently and confirmed that this travel backpack with wheels was a lifesaver on all those steps! A stand-out feature was the separate top section of the pack that can be accessed without having to go into the main pack. It’s handy for things like your phone, wallet or passport.

Eagle Creek Load Warrior

When it comes to a backpack with wheels that meets the requirements of aircraft carry-ons, you can’t get much better than the Gear Warrior 34L.

For carry-on functionality, the 22-inch backpack comes with a very decent 34-liter capacity, but should you find your travels leave you needing more space, zipper expansion will give you an additional overall capacity! Designed to be durable and survive the rigors of air travel, the Load Warrior is constructed using tough ripstop nylon, with extra reinforcement in areas known to take the most wear and tear.

There are plenty of pockets to keep smaller items from getting lost, and even a divider to keep clean and dirty items separate inside.

  • Carry-on compatible
  • Expands to almost double its size
  • Reinforced corners
  • A good number of pockets in addition to the main compartment
  • Not a rigid case
  • Water repellent but not waterproof
  • Single-strut handle
  • No RFID-blocking technology

Is the Eagle Creek Load Warrior for me?

Built to survive the outdoors, the Eagle Creek Load Warrior is at home in boutique hotels or the first-class section of an aircraft.

Compatible with aircraft overhead compartments, and with reinforced corners to help it last as long as possible, the Load Warrior is sure to become your go-to carry-on!

Our team loved how roomy this carry on backpack with wheels felt without being too heavy. They remarked that the design actually allows for far more storage than many of the other heavier cases. This was aided by the expandable compartments that make the bag feel super versatile.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

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Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet Backpack

Coming from the makers of the Swiss Army Knife, you won’t be surprised by the durability and multi-functionality of the Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet backpack with wheels. It works for the modern hiker , who is just as likely to need a laptop as a pair of boots, the Sports Cadet has a dedicated padded sleeve for laptops with screens of up to 16 inches.

There’s a retractable wheel cover to prevent the spread of dust and dirt from the wheels when they’re not in use, and compression straps to keep all your kit in position, whether on the hiking trail or in the airport departure lounge.

Rounding things off is a good number of separate zippered pouches for smaller items. If you’re looking for a wheeled hiking backpack that still wouldn’t look out of place on a business trip, then this is the one!

  • Dedicated laptop sleeve
  • Retractable wheel cover
  • Zippered pockets
  • Only laptops up to 17” fit in a padded sleeve
  • Smaller wheels may struggle on rough ground
  • Just one size available
  • Soft-shell design

Is the Victorinox Vx Sports Cadet backpack with wheels for me?

This durable and well-styled backpack with wheels by Victorinox is, to our mind, the best currently on offer for hikers.

A retractable wheel cover means you can hide away the slimline wheels when you know you’re not going to need them, while the padded laptop sleeve means you won’t ever have to worry about your tech – no matter how rough the trail becomes!

Our testers just loved the quality feel of this rolling hiking backpack and described it as Swiss ingenuity at its best! Well, we can’t argue with that because everything from the smoothness of the high-quality zippers to the durability of the wheels feels premium.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Samsonite Rewind

The wheels and retractable handles that come part and parcel of a backpack with wheels means that these bags are invariably more cumbersome than their non-wheeled counterparts. That said, there are still some excellent lightweight backpacks with wheels out there to choose from, of which the Samsonite Rewind is perhaps the pick of the crop.

There’s an integrated rain cover to keep all your kit protected from the weather, a dedicated laptop compartment to keep your prized machine secure, and compression straps to hold everything in place whatever you find yourself doing.

Weighing just 2.1 kg when empty, this soft-shell bag is largely made up of tough polyester durable material and has a capacity of 30 liters.

The Samsonite brand is a popular choice and I feel that this suitcase backpack with wheels lived up to the brands high reputation. I loved just how light the pack felt even when fully loaded whilst still retaining that characteristic Samsonite sturdy and tough feel.

  • Lightweight backpack on smooth wheels
  • Integrated rain cover
  • Dedicated laptop compartment
  • Made from tough polyester
  • Not as light as a backpack without wheels
  • 5-liter capacity may be too small for some
  • Laptop compartment fits machines no larger than 16”
  • No hip belt

Is the Samsonite Rewind for me?

When the need for a lightweight backpack with wheels is your primary concern, it’s difficult to beat the 2 kg Samsonite Rewind. For that weight, you get a backpack with a capacity of 32.5 liters, a dedicated compartment laptop pocket for laptops up to 16”, and compression straps too!

Solgaard Carry On Closet 2.0

best backpacks with wheels

Ok, so this smooth wheeled suitcase is in fact not a backpack, BUT , it is such a neat product idea that I could not keep it off of this list.

Hailed as one of the most practical wheeled luggage designs of all time, the Carry on Closet 2.0 is the perfect unit for busy business travelers looking to add a bit of order to an already crazy schedule.

As the name suggests, the Carry on Closet features an expandable shelving system that makes packing, access to your stuff, and general organization much more streamlined.

There are a total of six different shelves to work with and compression straps to help secure all of the contents. The shelving system is also removable in case you are the kind of travleer who prefers packing everything into the main compartment instead.

The exterior design of the Carry on Closet is sleek, modern, and tough looking and has interesting security features including a built in lock and unbreakable polycarbonate shell.

Our testers were pleasantly surprised by this suitcase. Let’s be honest, sometimes these things can be a bit of a gimmick that in reality aren’t all that practical. But qudos to Solgaard because the closet design actually works wonders especially if you like to keep all your gear organised. The material also feels sturdy enough to withstand proper usage too.

  • Unique shelving system is the undeniable highlight
  • Can be integrated with Solgaard’s solar charging system ( Solar Bank  sold separately)
  • Comes in two sizes based on carrying needs.
  • Stylish and tough as nails.
  • Heavy (9 lbs when empty).
  • Not factually a wheeled backpack.
  • Too small for extended trips
  • The closet can decrease the amount of clothing you can actually pack.

Is the Solgaard Carry On Closet 2.0 for me?

If you find yourself hopping between cities for 2-3 days at a time and want a user friendly packing solution, the Solgaard Carry on Closet was pretty much designed exactly for people like you. There is a reason why Time Magazine called it the best travel invention of 2018. For international trips stretching out more than three days though, I’d consider bringing an additional business bag . Wheeled suitcases are never going to be super cool, but Solgaard has probably come the closest of any company to fitting that description.

Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack

Why is the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack great for business travelers? First and foremost, its plain black design won’t stand out in an office or conference hall. But more than that, this backpack with wheels is incredibly functional for business travel.

For instance, it contains many internal compartments of different sizes, meaning there’s a space for everything – from your laptop and tablet computer (in padded sleeves) to A4-sized files, smartphone, and keys. With a sensibly-sized capacity of 40 liters and weight of just under 5.7lbs, there’s enough space for a night away from home.

Our testers particularly loved how smooth the handle was when popping the bag up and down. It means quick transitions from wearing the pack on your bag on a train to rolling it across the station. Experienced travelers know the stress of messing around with your bags on a crowded platform!

  • Looks right for the business world
  • Padded laptop compartment
  • Internal divisions to help keep your kit organized
  • Locking zippers
  • 40-liter capacity may be a little small for some
  • Not fully waterproof
  • Not for outdoor adventures
  • Fits laptops up to 16”

Is the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack for me?

When you’re traveling for business, it’s just as important to look the part as it is to act the part, and using the Karabar Aragon Overnight Wheeled Backpack will certainly help. Its relatively plain, black appearance is the perfect start, while the internal compartments will keep you organized and efficient however long your days on the job.

Osprey Daylite 40 Liters

Osprey Daylite Carry-On Wheeled Duffel 40

Is the Osprey Fairpoint Wheeled too big for you? Do you want a high-quality Osprey backpack with wheels to handle all of your travels?

Osprey’s Daylite 40L might just be your travelling chameleon! This backpack is great as a carry-on. I like the padded handles and internal compression straps to keep your things organized. The best part about this backpack is its weight. It weighs so little that it’s hard to believe it’s so durable. Wheels are also good quality!

Speaking of the wheels, they were a real stand out feature for me. They’re lightweight, smooth and durable. But if you do happen to wear them out, well a great feature is that they are easily replaceable which makes this bag one for the long haul.

  • Carry On to most flights
  • Lightweight yet durable
  • Not as big as Sojourn

Is the Osprey Daylite 40 liter for me?

This is a good backpack that is compliant for many carry-on requirements. This backpack is for you if you want a backpack with a comfortable and high-quality backpack.

While the Sojourn is great, we like that you’re more likely to carry this sized bag on your back as it is one of the lightest backpacks on this list! That said, we’re still a fan of the Osprey Meridian a bit more if you can afford it! The Ozone beats the Meridian when it comes to price!

High Sierra XBT Wheeled Laptop Backpack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

This is an affordable backpack that ticks off all the boxes. It is easy to maneuver with its smooth rolling corner-mounted wheels. It’s also lightweight, and features plenty of internal and external pockets for easy organisation.

We like that there are two main compartments and across them both is a compression strap to keep things tight. The front compartment is great for keeping things close to hand like your bus pass or city maps whilst everything behind it is super secure.

All in all, this bag will get the job done, and get you from point A to point B; however, it’s not the highest quality roller backpack on this list nor do any features set it apart from the rest of the bags. That said, its price is hard to beat!

Our testers loved this budget option and the fact that it still came with a padded laptop compartment, something our team takes very seriously! In fact, they said for such a well-priced bag their expensive equipment felt safe and secure.

  • Quality is so-so but good for the price

Is the High Sierra XBT Wheeled Laptop Backpack for me?

This is a good, affordable backpack. While it’s not our top pick on this list, it will get the job done! We like that it’s wheeled luggage with multiple functions. It easily converts into a backpack.

Cwatcun Camera Backpack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Any semi-serious photographer will already know just how much kit it’s necessary to cart around when you count up the camera, lens, and other pieces of vital equipment a photographer needs.

Not only can the weight soon mount up, but much of this equipment is delicate, meaning you need a specific camera bag – such as the Cwatcun Camera Backpack. Open up the main compartment and you’ll find eleven adaptable compartments that you can personalize as you wish.

There is also a padded sleeve for laptops up to 15.6″ and straps on one side to take a full-sized tripod ! The backpack also has an expandable area so if you pick up a few souvenirs along the way you’ll be a-ok!

Let’s be honest, Cwatcun actually make some pretty good products for those of us on a budget and well, as Broke Backpackers, our team are always on the lookout for a bargain. They really loved how versatile this bag was for the price. Many of the crew aren’t avid photographers but still enjoyed the addition of the dividers which meant they could easily organise and separate whatever they put in the bag too.

  • Dedicated camera bag
  • Adaptable compartments
  • Padded laptop sleeve
  • Expandable section
  • Exterior a little drab
  • Wheels protrude slightly
  • Can become heavy when fully loaded
  • Side straps better for a lighter tripod

Is the Cwatcun Camera Backpack for me?

If you’re in the business of carting around expensive camera equipment, either as a seasoned amateur or a semi-professional, you’re going to need a good backpack dedicated to the job. With an adaptable interior and plenty of small extra pockets for lens wipes and memory cards, this backpack from Cwatcun certainly fulfills that brief!

Aerolite 21” Four-Wheel Backpack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Matching the Cabin Max on price is the Aerolite wheeled backpack, which is a model using a four-wheel design rather than the regular two-wheel version. Although it may be a little plain to look at for some, this 32L backpack is carry-on compatible with many of the major airlines you’ll be flying with and has shoulder straps that won’t get in the way as they can be placed behind a Velcro cover.

Made from truly durable 1680 Dernier polyester and nylon, this backpack is sure to last, while useful side pockets in addition to the spacious main compartment mean you won’t have any trouble taking everything you need while you’re away!

What our testers loved most about this pack in particular is how much it actually looks and feels like a “normal” backpack compared to some of the other square or bulkier bags. With added covers for the wheels, it very much felt like a backpack with added functionality when needed rather than carrying a suitcase on your back!

  • Very well-priced
  • Four-wheel design
  • 32 liters may be too small for some travelers
  • Plain design
  • Wheels a little bulky

Is the Aerolite Four-Wheel backpack for me?

It’s fair to say that the great price may be the first thing to attract many would-be customers to the Aerolite Four-Wheel backpack! But looking beyond that, we think this is an excellent backpack with wheels, with a very reasonable capacity of 32 liters, durable construction, and compatibility with carry-on regulations for the major airlines.

Swiss Tech Navigation 21” Upright

What we love about the Swiss Tech Navigation 21″ Upright is primarily its high quality spec. It is made from sturdy, durable materials  and extremely is well put together. Its hard exterior makes it fully waterproof and able to survive a few falls. It also comes with an integrated TSA lock and a USB port  and utilises an  wheel design for maximum ease of movement.

Our testers loved the addition of the shoe holders, as folks who get out and about in nature whilst travelling, being able to keep our muddy shoes away from our “clean” clothes was a godsend! It’s actually made from pretty sturdy stuff too so it’s not going to rip easily.

Swiss Tech Navigation 21

  • Durable and sturdy
  • 12 year guarantee
  • 40 liters may be too large for some travelers
  • Not as cheap as some on here
  • Heavier than some other models in its class

When it comes to testing and comparing wheeled backpacks there are a few areas that we looked at. The first one is how versatile a product it and specifically how well it performs both it’d wheels function, and its backpack function. For example, some of the products on this list are great for wheeling, but perform less well when worn and carried as a backpack.

Next up, we paid really close attention to the quality and build of the wheels as this a major stress area. Beyond that we looked at durability, comfort, awarded bonus points for innovative features and added a weighting for price and value.

Of course, trying out travel gear liked backpacks on wheels is not a perfect science and we were not able to blind test them under laboratory conditions. Rather, various members of our team tried them on various trips over different time periods. For example, I took the Osprey Sojourn to Goa in India which has no pavements, dusty roads laden with cow shit – as such it got a proper brutal test whereas other packs got an easy ride being carried through the gilded streets of Copenhagen. Still, we stand by our assessments.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Still have some questions about the best backpack suitcases with wheels? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the best wheeled backpack?

We think the best wheeled backpack for overall travel is the Osprey Fairview .

Are rolling backpacks better?

Rolling backpacks are ideal if you are carrying a very heavy load or if you have problems carrying a backpack.

How many wheels does a wheeled backpack have?

Wheeeld backpacks usually have 2 wheels although some have 4.

What are bags with wheels called?

Backpacks with wheels! There is no fancy or technical name.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

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There’s no excuse for uncertainty now we’ve given you all the relevant details on the best backpacks with wheels you can purchase right now!

Any of our most recommended bags will be able to keep up with you on your adventures. Enjoy the versatility of these great rolling backpacks!

travel suitcase with backpack straps

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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This has clearly not been updated in 2022. Almost none of these bags are currently sold. Further – the Nomadic bag that is recced here is not even a backpack.

Hi Valkyrie

Firstly, we are well aware that the Nomatic is not even a backpack which is why we wrote “this is not a backpack” in large letters in the relevant section.

Otherwise, we are aware that a number of these backpacks are currently unavailable owing to inventory issues but are optimistic that production and sales will resume in due course. If we come across any suitable alternative products in the meantime, we will of course update this post.

I agree that wheeled backpacks are a great type of travel bag. I’m loyal to the Osprey Brand and love their bags.

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travel suitcase with backpack straps

The 8 best travel backpacks of 2024

Need lots of pockets for water bottles or tripods? Theft-deterrent zippers? A cushioned laptop compartment? No matter what kind of travel bag you need, we’ve got you covered. 

Whether you’re traveling overnight or for weeks at a time, you'll need a backpack that's functional, comfortable, and helps keep you organized.

We know there's no one backpack that will work for everyone, so we picked bags that will meet the needs of most types of travelers—whether you need a small option for the overhead of a plane, or lockable zippers for security.

Our best overall travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Pack 45L , which ticks all the boxes for durability, versatility, and comfort, but also offers a thoughtful design, unique organizational features and high-quality, sustainably made materials.

Our picks for the best travel backpack

Best overall: peak design travel pack 45l.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Buy it now: $300 at Backcountry

Why we like it:   The sleek-looking Peak Design Travel Pack 45L is our best overall travel backpack. It's expandable, carry-on compliant, and is bursting with innovative features.  

This backpack is functional—think gusseted side pockets for water bottles or tripods—and made with high-quality weatherproof materials and theft-deterrent zipper pulls. It’s durable and secure, and it’s obvious that every detail of this bag has been carefully thought through.  

There are smartly placed pockets, and the padded harness system tucks beneath magnetic flaps for duffel-style carry. The spacious main cavity is accessible from the front, rear and both sides, and the extensively padded bag has 16-inch laptop and tablet sleeves.

Keep in mind:   At 4.5 pounds, it’s not light, and smaller-framed travelers may find it cumbersome to carry. The harness isn’t adjustable, so the torso length is one-size-fits-all.

Product details:   Sizes available: 30L, 45L | Materials:   Recycled nylon and polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 8

The best with laptop compartment: Thule Aion 40L

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Buy it now: $200 at Backcountry

Why we like it:   The Thule Aion 40L is our best backpack with a laptop compartment.   It’s a carry-on travel backpack that accommodates a 16-inch laptop while leaving plenty of room for other gear.  

Its roomy side-access laptop compartment contains cushioned laptop and tablet sleeves. There’s a compartment for accessories and a rollaway bag for damp or dirty items in the main compartment, which minimizes the chances of wet belongings damaging tech.  

There are breathable, padded shoulder straps and a back panel, plus a sternum strap to keep things secure. A robust side handle facilitates duffel-style carry, and there’s a pass-through for a rolling suitcase attachment.

Keep in mind:   There’s no weight-bearing hip belt, and the wax-coated canvas creates a weathered look that might not appeal to everyone.

Product details:   Sizes available: 28L, 40L | Materials: Recycled polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 2

The best small travel backpack: Patagonia Atom 20L Tote Pack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Buy it now: $89 at Patagonia

Why we like it:   Our pick for the best small travel backpack is the Patagonia Atom 20L Tote Pack, a versatile, lightweight bag that stows under airplane seats. This backpack has a large main compartment, which houses a thickly padded removable 13-inch laptop sleeve and a hydration bladder pass-through for hikers.  

External features include a bike light loop, attachment points for the removable sternum strap and other essentials, and a zippered front compartment that occupies the full length of the bag.  

The well-padded, breathable harness system makes the Atom a comfortable carry in backpack mode, but it can also be transported tote-style using its sturdy handles.  

Keep in mind:   The two compartments lack organizational features, and the laptop sleeve compromises internal space. The backpack fits a 17-inch torso length, so it may not work for taller travelers.

Product details:   Sizes available: 20L | Materials: Fairly traded recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 3

The best anti-theft backpack: Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 Anti Theft Travel Backpack  

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Buy it now: $270 at Amazon

Why we like it:   The Pacsafe’s practical, versatile Venturesafe EXP35 Anti Theft Travel Backpack is our pick for the best anti-theft backpack. It’s made with recycled slash-resistant material and lockable, puncture-resistant, self-locking zippers.  

This pick has an RFID-blocking pocket to keep credit card information safe and a hidden lockable 16-inch laptop compartment. The comfortable, breathable harness system has cut-resistant straps that can be used to secure the bag to fixed objects.  

Keep in mind:   The anti-theft features hamper quick access, and the bag’s solid construction and numerous compartments make it feel heftier than it is.

Product details:   Sizes available: 35L | Materials: Recycled polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 3

The best rolling backpack: Osprey Farpoint / Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Buy it now:   $300 at Osprey ( Farpoint and Fairview )

Why we like it:   The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack* is our pick for best rolling backpack. It’s comfortable in backpack mode, has a stamina-saving rolling mode, and is straightforward to switch between the two.  

This bag features padded shoulder straps and hip belt, mesh back panel and torso adjustment to provide a comfortable backpack-style carry. If your back needs a break, engage the harness stowaway system, extend the single tube ergonomic handle and let the rugged, oversized wheels do the work.  

Organizational features include a zippered top pocket for quick-access items and a 15-inch laptop compartment; the main cavity facilitates easy packing with its compression straps and suitcase-style opening.  

*The bags’ features are identical; however, the Fairview’s fit is tailored specifically to women.

Keep in mind:   It’s a heavy bag, and the interior frame and stowed rolling handle reduce capacity in the main compartment.  

Product details:   Sizes available: 36L, 65L | Materials: bluesign® approved recycled nylon | Frame type: 4 mm LightWire peripheral frame | Number of external pockets: 4

The best carry-on backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35l Travel Pack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Buy it now:   $200 at REI

Why we like it:   The Allpa 35L Travel Pack from Cotopaxi is our best carry-on backpack—a durable, easily stowable option with thoughtful organizational features and anti-theft zippers.

The no-nonsense, adjustable harness system tucks away neatly into a slotted back panel during transit, while four reinforced grab handles make pulling the backpack out of an overhead bin child’s play.The bag opens suitcase-style for efficient packing, but a side zipper also provides on-the-go access.  

High-visibility backing in the front compartment makes searching for small items less challenging, and there’s convenient side access to the padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, which has a false bottom to protect devices if dropped. There’s a rainfly included, should you arrive at your destination to unexpected wet weather.

Keep in mind:   Flimsy and lacking structure, it doesn’t hold its shape unless it is full. The lack of an external water bottle pocket may be a deal-breaker for some.

Product details:   Sizes available: 28L, 35L, 42L | Materials:   Recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 2

The most versatile backpack: Gregory Rhune 25 Pack

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Buy it now:   $130 at REI

Why we like it:   Our pick for the most versatile travel backpack is the Gregory Rhune 25 Pack, a water-resistant travel backpack with great functionality and a surprising amount of space.  

Thanks to its structured base, rounded body, and organizational compartments, more fits into this 25L bag than you’d expect. Padded internal sleeves fit a 15-inch laptop and tablet/folio, and pockets outside include a handy swing-around access stash pocket.  

With a moisture-wicking padded back panel, removable sternum strap and contoured shoulder straps, this bag is designed to carry weight comfortably: a great all-rounder whether you’re a hiker, digital nomad, or urban sightseer.

Keep in mind:   Top-opening access makes it tricky to locate items at the base. Shoulder straps may feel bulky to smaller travelers.

Product details:   Sizes available:   20L, 22L, 25L | Materials: Recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type:   Frameless | Number of external pockets: 4

The best budget backpack: tomtoc Navigator-T66 Travel Laptop Backpack 40L

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Buy it now:   $82 at Amazon

Why we like it:   The Navigator-T66 Travel Laptop Backpack 40L is our pick for the best budget travel backpack. It’s made with quality materials and loaded with organizational features despite its affordable price tag.  

The sturdy, water-resistant, and easy-to-pack clamshell design, plus the multi-functional pockets and attachment points, mean efficient organization. This backpack has a TSA-friendly 17-inch laptop compartment, which will save time at airport security.  

The cushioned harness means it’s comfortable to wear, and top and side handles and a pass-through make it easy to grab or attach to a wheeled suitcase.  

Keep in mind:   It’s so heavily padded that packing space feels compromised. There’s no load-bearing hip belt.

Product details:   Sizes available:   40L | Materials:   Recycled PET bottles | Frame type:   Frameless | Number of external pockets:   4

Our review process

I referred to brand product descriptions, third-party reviews, competitor articles, Reddit discussion boards, watched an excessive number of review videos, and evaluated my findings with my own knowledge and experience, considering the following:

Material and quality: Durability of materials and hardware is critical for a bag that will be repeatedly thrown into overhead bins and exposed to bad weather.

Versatility: I looked for bags that could be carried duffel-style, fastened to a rolling suitcase or pulled-on wheels and were capable of protecting tech equipment, and keeping belongings dry on hikes.

Storage and protection: I looked for features such as stowable harness systems for ease of storage, and hidden pockets and anti-theft zippers for peace of mind.

Comfort: Weight-bearing, cushioned hip belts, secure sternum straps and adjustable padded shoulder straps all maximize carry comfort.

Organization: Positioning and accessibility of pockets, compartments and attachment points are a matter of personal preference, but they should maximize functionality.

Sustainability: I prioritized bags made with recycled materials and brands actively addressing their social, ethical and environmental impact.

What to know about travel backpacks

Here are a few things to consider when buying a travel backpack:

The most common materials used for travel backpacks are nylon and polyester (both increasingly recycled), which can be treated to enhance durability and water resistance.

The size of a travel backpack is measured in liters, with external pockets included. How much it actually fits depends on shape, material thickness, flexibility, and padding.

Backpacks with heavy external frames offer structure and support. Internal frames hold bags closer to the body, offering more stability but less ventilation.

Number of external pockets

External compartments such as mesh water bottle holders and quick-grab pockets are great for organization.

Carry-on weight allowances vary between airlines, so a lightweight bag optimizes what you can pack.

Look for high-quality harnesses with cushioned straps, breathable back panels, secure sternum straps, and a weight-bearing hip belt if required.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best backpack to take on a plane.

Choose a backpack that fits in an overhead bin and has a robust handle for retrieving it. Quick-access external pockets and efficient internal organization enable quick access to belongings; lockable zippers provide security.

Is a travel backpack a carry-on?

As long as it complies with your airline’s regulations.

What is a good size backpack to travel with?

The length and purpose of your trip will determine the size of the bag you need. Generally speaking, a 25-30 liter backpack should suffice for weekend trips, and 30-45 liters allow a good amount of space for longer travel. For most airlines, backpacks up to 45 liters should be carry-on compliant.

Related Topics

  • PRODUCT ROUNDUP
  • TRAVEL BACKPACKS
  • ADVENTURE TRAVEL

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How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip With One Small Suitcase

Expert advice from professional travelers on what to bring and where to put it.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

By John Wogan

Ask any frequent traveler their rules for a trip, and you’ll likely hear the same advice: Never check a bag. Carry-on only. But fitting everything you need, especially for a longer stay, into one small suitcase and one handbag or backpack requires some ingenuity: The maximum dimensions for luggage going into most overhead bins are 22 by 14 by 9 inches, and though the majority of domestic flights don’t have — or at least don’t enforce — weight limits, some international and trans-Pacific flights do (certain Delta flights to Asia, for example, have a limit of 22 pounds, while Hawaiian Airlines’s maximum is 25 pounds). The payoff, if you do get it right: quicker airport experiences that don’t involve the risk of lost luggage and, upon arrival, fewer decisions about what to wear. Here, tried-and-true tips from a few experts.

An illustration of three items of luggage, including a metal trundle suitcase with a triangular Prada bag suspended from the handle with a blue passport sticking out of the top.

Choose the Right Luggage

Though some regular travelers swear by soft bags — the New York-based stylist Ian Bradley, 38, favors the capacious extra-large L.L. Bean Adventure Duffel — most are committed to hard, rolling suitcases. “They’re lighter,” says Hitha Palepu, 39, a New York-based author and entrepreneur who wrote what might be the definitive book on the topic, 2017’s “ How to Pack: Travel Smart for Any Trip .” The polycarbonate material used for hard-shell suitcases, she explains, “is about half the weight of the rugged nylon used in soft suitcases.” These are the rolling bags our experts recommended:

A roller from the German brand Rimowa is often considered the gold standard, and many people we spoke with vouched for the products’ durability. “They’re more expensive but a worthy investment,” says the New York-based artist Laila Gohar, 35. (Like the Antwerp-based architect Vincent Van Duysen, 62, she flies with the aluminum Cabin model .) For those concerned about weight limits: The brand’s lightest full-size carry-on is the Essential Lite Cabin , at 4.9 pounds.

Palepu is a fan of the hard-shell suitcases by the American brand Béis , which are considerably less expensive than Rimowa’s. “They have the best in-suitcase compression, a really solid construction and a padded handle for dragging through the airport,” she says.

The New York-based chef and author Andy Baraghani , 34, who completed a multicity book tour last year, likes the Away Bigger Carry-On: Aluminum Edition because it feels indestructible, he says. “And its glossy finish stands out from the rest of the luggage at the airport.” (Just be careful to check that its above-average dimensions are compatible with your airline’s carry-on size limit.)

Edit Your Packing List Ruthlessly

“You can’t have a ‘just in case’ mentality,” says Gohar. “If something isn’t absolutely essential, it doesn’t make the cut.” Below, some strategies for identifying the bare necessities.

“Look for clothes with viscose or Lyocell blends, or silk and wool — those fabrics are more wrinkle-resistant than most,” Palepu advises. She prioritizes “pants that can be worn multiple times before they become unattractively baggy, patterned shirtdresses (prints help disguise wrinkles) and matching sets that can be mixed and matched with other pieces.” But her real workhorses are men’s non-iron button-down shirts from Uniqlo — they rarely get creased and work with a wide range of outfits.

Suits are also a great option because of their versatility. “They can be dressed up with heels for a night out, or down during the day with a tank top and sneakers,” says the London-based creative director Alex Eagle, 40. The gallerist Mariane Ibrahim, who lives between Mexico City, Paris and Chicago, has a similar philosophy: “My bag always includes an evening and a day suit, plus a few staple items in black and white (jeans, T-shirts).”

For Gohar, the key is building an adaptable uniform. “If you have a solid base look, you can get away with bringing one coat, one or two pairs of pants and simply changing your shirt daily,” she says. “And I’m not afraid to wash my clothes, or my kid’s, in the hotel sink. I just ask housekeeping for an unscented soap and then hang them to dry.”

It’s easiest to buy travel sizes of your favorite products and refill them from larger bottles at home, which eliminates excessive waste, says Palepu (alternatively, small empty containers can be found at stores like Muji). She also suggests streamlining by finding multipurpose products: “My EltaMD tinted sunscreen is hydrating enough to be my daytime moisturizer; I use my Le Prunier oil as a hydrating serum and a finishing oil and to slick back flyaway hair.”

Flight Essentials

Palepu likes to pack a simple cross-body bag with the items she’ll need between takeoff and landing (lip balm, sanitizing wipes, an e-reader), carrying it on board inside a bigger tote, then keeping it on her lap once she’s seated. The hotelier Philomena Schurer-Merckoll, 40, who splits her time between Marrakech and London, recommends the British brand Métier’s Perriand Weekend bag in lieu of a handbag; its hidden exterior pockets make things easy to reach on the plane, she says, and “the clip-in clutch means I have an evening bag for my trip.” And the fashion designer Phillip Lim, 51, recommends bringing a Bluetooth transmitter from Airfly, which allows wireless headphones to connect to the in-flight entertainment system.

Pack as if Every Inch Counts (Because It Does)

Work from heavy to light.

As a general rule, Palepu packs the largest items first, to maximize space. She recommends rolling most — but not all — garments, to avoid wrinkles, and always packs this very compact steamer to remove the few creases that do inevitably occur (she also uses the device to steam her face after flights before applying a hydrating mask). Here’s how she recommends filling a bag, from bottom to top:

Begin by laying any bulky sweaters flat at the bottom of one half of your suitcase, with the sleeves and any extra fabric flowing over the sides.

If you’ll need a coat once you arrive, choose a versatile one and wear it on the plane. If you really need another piece of outerwear, make it a thin one and pack it with your bulky sweaters.

Fold suit pants lengthwise to preserve the crease, then roll them. For packing suit jackets, Palepu endorses this method , which involves folding the garment into a square along the seams. Lay these pieces on top of your sweaters.

Roll any other pants as well as skirts, dresses, pajamas and workout clothes and pack these next.

Fold shirts and tops along the seams, to cut down on wrinkles, and lay these on top of the rolled pieces.

Fit underwear and socks in any remaining gaps.

Once all your clothes are in your case, fold your sweater sleeves over the top of your other items.

In the other half of your bag, arrange your shoes, stored in shoe bags, around the perimeter. (To save space, wear the bulkiest pair you plan to bring on the flight.)

Pack any other accessories and your toiletries in the center of your shoes.

Consider Packing Cubes

Packing cubes, which are zippered pouches designed to compress clothing and save space, are especially useful for multistop trips, providing a more seamless way to pack and unpack quickly. Bradley likes those made by Bagsmart and also repurposes the dust bags that came with some of his accessories. “I put underwear, shoes and shirting in one and pants in another,” he says. Packing cubes are particularly helpful for young families, too, says Palepu: Her children each have a set in their favorite color, which means their clothes are easily distinguishable if they share a suitcase. Joeonna Bellardo-Samuels, 44, a senior director at New York’s Jack Shainman Gallery, says one of her secret pleasures is “snagging good hotel laundry bags” to use in place of cubes. “Each one is embellished with a gorgeous monogram that reminds me of my adventures.”

Ship Souvenirs Home

If you’re going on a shopping-focused trip, Palepu suggests packing a foldable duffel in your carry-on that you can fill and then either check in for the return flight or ship home en route to the airport. “Dirty laundry is the best padding for packing fragile items,” she says. Likewise, Eagle packs an L.L. Bean Boat & Tote for return-trip overflow including gifts and her children’s laundry (packing it separately means it’s easier to throw in the wash once you’re home). “The zip on the top makes it secure,” she says. “So you can check it — if you really need to.”

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New York’s Artist Buildings : Generations of creatives once flocked to the city seeking affordable rent. Now, despite skyrocketing real estate prices, some continue to carve out studio spaces of their own .

Wealth of Geek$

The 12 Best Backpacks for Traveling in 2024

More and more travelers are trading in their oversized “wheely” suitcases for the comfort and convenience of backpacks.

However, not all backpacks are created equal. They come in a dizzying array of sizes, shapes, and styles, from minimalistic bags for city day-trippers to heavy-duty versions for backcountry hiking.

So, which backpack is best for you, your budget, and your  unique travel  needs? Keep reading to discover 12 of the best backpacks for traveling this year.

1. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L is another option with outstanding durability and versatility, making it a top choice for adventurers.

Notable features include rugged weather-resistant construction, reinforced with TPU-film laminate, and durable water-repellent (DWR) coating. This ensures it can withstand even the harshest weather conditions.

Its large 55-liter capacity offers ample space for gear without allowing you to overpack, while multiple carrying options – backpack straps and haul handles – enhance convenience. Additionally, it’s made from recycled materials, which is perfect for the  eco-friendly traveler .

The bag’s hefty price tag might deter budget-conscious buyers; some find the lack of interior organization pockets a drawback. Overall, it’s a high-quality, eco-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts from another trustworthy brand in the space.

2. Aer Travel Pack 3

The Aer Travel Pack 3 backpack is a popular choice for travel enthusiasts and those with  traveling jobs , offering a blend of exceptional features.

Its best attributes include a sleek minimalist design crafted from durable 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon. The 33-liter capacity offers plenty of space for essentials, with thoughtful pockets and compartments for all your gadgets.

Comfortable and adjustable straps enhance its wearability, while a dedicated shoe compartment helps keep things clean and tidy.

Downsides include its bulkiness when fully packed, which might be inconvenient for some, and premium build quality with a similarly premium price point. Nevertheless, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is a stylish, functional companion for short-term urban travel or anyone seeking a sleek carry-on.

3. Osprey Aether

The Osprey Aether backpack offers exceptional comfort for hikers and travelers alike.

Its adjustable harness and hip belt make it ideal for long treks – or long security lines at the airport – and its internal frame provides excellent load distribution, reducing strain on the back.

Multiple compartments and pockets aid in organization, and the Aether also includes a hydration sleeve for those carrying a water bladder. This backpack is known for its durability with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers it.

At almost five pounds, its weight may be a drawback for some, as it’s not the lightest option on the list. It’s also relatively expensive compared to other brands. Still, the Aether remains a top choice for avid hikers and travelers seeking a reliable backpack that’s both comfortable and durable.

4. REI Co-op Flash 55 Backpack

The REI Co-op Flash 55 backpack is a versatile and affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

Standout features include its lightweight design – just three pounds – making it comfortable for extended hikes, the 55-liter capacity that provides ample storage, and numerous pockets for keeping everything organized.

Adjustable shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel offer comfort during long treks. It’s also reasonably priced compared to many competitor options.

Unsurprisingly, for a budget-friendlier backpack, its durability may not match premium brands. Some users also find the frame is less supportive with heavy loads. Despite these drawbacks, the REI Co-op Flash 55 shines as an affordable, lightweight pack that deserves its place on this list of the best  backpacks for travel .

5. Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack

The Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack is a multipurpose, compact daypack for outdoor enthusiasts.

Noteworthy features include its water-resistant G-1000 Eco fabric construction, which ensures longevity and durability. The 15-liter capacity is ideal for day hikes and short urban adventures, with a roll-top closure for easy access and expandability. It’s also super lightweight, making it easier to carry, and the removable foam frame adds support.

However, the smaller size of the foldsack may limit its use for longer trips. Some users may find the minimalist design lacks extra pockets for organization.

Overall, the Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack is a stylish, highly functional daypack for a wide range of  adventures with your friends .

6. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Pack

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Pack is a high-performance ultralight backpack designed for serious adventurers.

Its premier features include a waterproof Dyneema Composite Fabric construction. As the name suggests, this makes it highly durable and weather-resistant while remaining lightweight.

With a 40-liter capacity, this backpack is spacious enough for multi-day trips and includes a roll-top closure for easy access. The minimalistic design and robust materials ensure longevity, while adjustable straps enhance comfort on the road.

The premium price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers, and some may miss additional organizational pockets. Nevertheless, this is another of the best backpacks for travelers seeking something lightweight, durable, and suitable for challenging outdoor expeditions.

7. Cotopaxi Allpa 42L

The highly-rated Cotopaxi Allpa 42L backpack stands out with its versatility and stylish, sustainable design.

Noteworthy features include its recycled polyester fabric with a TPU coating for weather resistance, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. The 42-liter capacity offers a useful amount of space for longer trips. And it boasts a clever selection of compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve.

Its harness system and padded waist belt ensure a pleasant carrying experience. The unique, vibrant color schemes make it easy to spot on the luggage carousel.

Downsides? Some travelers may find it somewhat heavy for a carry-on bag with a relatively high price point. All things considered, the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L impresses with its eco-conscious construction and functional design.

8. Gregory Baltoro 75

The Gregory Baltoro 75 backpack is a rugged, top-tier choice for serious backpacking enthusiasts.

Its best features include an adjustable Response A3 suspension system, which offers unparalleled comfort and load support. Its cavernous 75-liter capacity accommodates extended trips and heavy gear, complemented by numerous pockets and access points for efficient organization.

The backpack’s durability and robust materials ensure longevity, while its integrated rain cover adds weather protection.

Its weight and size may be overkill for some hikers/travelers, and it comes with a heavy price tag. Despite these potential drawbacks, the Gregory Baltoro 75 is a comfortable, feature-rich  backpack for anyone tackling extended trips  or tough outdoor expeditions.

9. Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L

The Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L is a versatile carry-on backpack for urban explorers.

Noteworthy features include a sleek, minimalist design that adheres to airline size restrictions. The 30-liter capacity offers ample space for essentials, with thoughtful organization pockets for tech gadgets and accessories.

It’s comfortable to wear with padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel. The backpack’s durable materials ensure longevity, while the hideaway shoulder straps add versatility.

However, the smaller size might not suit longer trips, and the lack of a hip belt could limit comfort for some users with heavier loads. The Tortuga Travel Backpack 30L is a compact, stylish choice for city adventures. Tip: travelers seeking slightly more space could consider the 40-liter version.

10. Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On Travel Backpack

The Osprey Transporter Global Carry-On Travel Backpack is another versatile travel companion with many impressive features.

Its most noteworthy attributes include a durable TPU-coated nylon construction, which offers good weather resistance and longevity. Similarly, the 36-liter capacity adheres to global carry-on size regulations, making it perfect for hassle-free air travel.

The backpack’s comfortable harness system includes a padded hip belt and adjustable shoulder straps for a customized fit. It also offers excellent organization with multiple pockets and a padded laptop sleeve.

The lack of wheels might be a drawback for some travelers, and, like most Osprey packs, it isn’t cheap. This would be a robust, attractive, well-organized, and spacious carry-on for frequent flyers.

11. ULA Circuit Backpack

The ULA Circuit backpack is a favorite among thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers.

Its standout features include a spacious 68-liter capacity, ideal for extended wilderness trips. It also has a comfortable, adjustable suspension system to handle heavy loads.

The rugged Cordura fabric ensures durability, while the numerous external and internal pockets facilitate organization. It has a custom-fit option, allowing buyers to tailor the pack to their needs.

On the downside, its three-pound weight may be considered “heavy” in the ultralight community. Some users also find the lack of frame uncomfortable with heavy loads. Nevertheless, the ULA Circuit is a hardwearing, customizable backpack for anyone serious about long-distance treks.

12. Kelty Redwing Tactical Backpack

The Kelty Redwing Tactile backpack is affordable and versatile for outdoor enthusiasts.

Notable features include a rugged 500D Kodra fabric construction, offering both durability and water resistance. Its 45-liter capacity provides ample space for gear, complete with multiple pockets and organization options.

The U-shaped zipper provides easy access to the main compartment, while the padded shoulder straps and ventilated back panel enhance comfort during extended use.

However, some users may find the tactical aesthetics less appealing for urban settings. And the absence of a dedicated laptop compartment could be another drawback for city travelers. Yet its popularity as a well-built, robust pack is undeniable.

The Best Backpacks for Traveling: Which Will You Choose?

Ultimately, picking the best backpacks for you will depend on where you’re going, what you’re doing, and how long you’ll be there.

As we’ve seen, there are high-quality packs for day-trippers, weekend wanders, long-term travelers, and everybody in between. One of the options on this list is sure to be the perfect traveling backpack for you.

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This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

The 12 Best Backpacks for Traveling in 2024

The Coolector | Online Men's Lifestyle Magazine | Design, Gear & Fashion - The Coolector

5 of the Best: Huckberry Backpacks

travel suitcase with backpack straps

If adventure is in your blood and you’re planning a few trips out into the wild over the next few months then chances are you’re already thinking about your next backpack purchase. Well, there are many out there with more to choose from than the guys at Huckberry and we’ve picked a few of our favourites here at Coolector HQ.

Check out our picks of 5 of the best backpacks on Huckberry below:

Evergoods CPL24 Backpack ($229)

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Carefully designed to be streamlined for urban carry and taking its design inspiration from the great outdoors, the  Evergoods CPL 24 Backpack on Huckberry is made for the city and boasts the fit, storage, and robustness that is essential for today’s outdoor gear. Ideally suited for your commute or just running errands around town, the CPL24 Backpack from Evergoods is an undercover workhorse of a carry that’s suitable for all-day carry and made to keep you on the move with all your gear securely stowed away but ready as and when you need it.  ($229)

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Topo Designs Core Pack ($119)

travel suitcase with backpack straps

The perfect ally for all your outdoor adventures this spring and summer, the Topo Designs Core Pack on Huckberry really is built for outdoor excursions and is as robust and storage gilled as they come. Crafted to be the cornerstone of your EDC, the Core Pack from Topo Designs is a versatile and durable backpack which adapts to an array of functions and requirements – be this days spent in the woods, nights spent around the camp fire to afternoons at the beach or heading to the gym — the possibilities are endless. Plentiful storage and innovative design ensure it will be your go-to backpack whenever you head out in the morning.  ($119)

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L ($260)

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Perfect for those adventurers who take their camera everywhere they go, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack on Huckberry adapts to your ever-changing gear , lifestyle and environment. Boasting unparalleled accessibility, versatility, and organisation courtesy of the plentiful storage space, this is one bag that won’t let you down on the carry front. It has a patented MagLatch which ensures lightning quick top access, with dual side-loading via two weatherproof side zips. With a vast external carry capacity courtesy of the versatile tuck-away strap system and two expandable external side pockets, you’ll be able to port about all your EDC in style.

You’ll find internally padded accessory pockets are ideal for keeping those smaller items in check and the dedicated sleeve for up to 15” laptop, tablet, and documents will make sure you’re never far from your tech. The ultra clean and minimalist aesthetic is right up our street here at Coolector HQ and the all-custom hardware and minimal dangling straps means that it will always keep things looking ordered. Last but not least it has a weatherproof 400D nylon canvas shell for the unrivalled robustness you’ll demand.  ($260)

AER Duffle Pack 2 ($170)

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Functional, lightweight and robust, the AER Duffle Pack 2 on Huckberry is the perfect choice for all your day to day activities. This cracking carry is crafted from 1680D ballistic nylon exterior with eco-friendly dye process for an unparalleled sense of durability and they are designed to drastically simplify the way you carry all your daily essentials. It does this by allowing you to stash your gym and office essentials in one bag courtesy of the separate packing compartments. The vertical zipper gives you full, easy access to the interior while the backpack straps make it extremely comfortable to carry.  ($170)

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Bellroy Classic Backpack ($149)

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Understated and simple yet wonderfully effective, the Bellroy Classic Backpack on Huckberry will meet and exceed your carry expectations. Boasting a traditional backpack silhouette with smart storage solutions, this excellent carry from Bellroy is made from sustainably produced nylon and environmentally-certified leathers for a tangible sense of quality to the touch. It has storage space aplenty with space for a 15″ laptop, a padded protective iPad/document sleeve, an external zip pocket with easy access and an internal zip pocket for small items.  ($149)

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Lander Carry System

Fan-Fave Travel Brand CALPAK Just Launched Its First-Ever Baby Collection, & We're Obsessed

Stylish. functional. totally game-changing. calpak's new baby collection has us going goo-goo gaga over it, featuring diaper totes, stroller caddies, changing pad clutches & more parenting must-haves..

Shop CALPAK Baby Collection Launch

We independently selected these deals and products because we love them, and we think you might like them at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

Today's a very special day, bestie, and not just because it's Leap Day . As much as we enjoy having this extra day of the year to daydream about our spring break plans  that can't come soon enough, catch up on work emails , and shop limited-time sales from our fave brands , there's another reason why we're going (goo-goo) gaga right now.

As it so happens, cult-fave travel brand CALPAK just launched its first-ever baby collection , featuring chic parenting essentials that draw inspiration from the internet-viral Luka Duffel Bag . The collection effortlessly combines style with utility, with elevated designs ranging from the classic diaper backpack  (but better) to a genius changing pad clutch that takes the stress out of keeping your baby clean on the go. We're in love with everything about this collection, especially with the way the brand has managed to prioritize the unique needs of parents without compromising on aesthetics. Speaking of, did we mention that each of the new items are available in six totally trendy colors? Long story short, CALPAK has absolutely knocked it out of the park this time, and the timing couldn't be more perfect with baby shower season coming up just around the corner. These picks are sure to please the parent in your life — and even if you're not a parent yourself, these items are so versatile that early reviewers even mention using picks like the Diaper Tote Bag for work & more. We've also included some of the brand's signature, bestselling picks like the Insulated Lunch Bag & Water Bottle Holder , so make sure to check those out, too!

Read on to learn more about the collection and why it's such a game-changer.

Shop CALPAK's Baby Collection

Calpak diaper backpack with laptop sleeve.

If we could describe this diaper backpack in one word, it would be game-changing. Perfectly versatile for everyday use and effortlessly cool to boot, the backpack is designed to fit a laptop (up to 14") and features multiple insulated bottle pockets, breathable mesh pockets, magnetic closure, easy transport handle & more. It's even equipped with a luggage trolley sleeve, adjustable shoulder straps, and water-resistant fabric for unexpected messes.

According to one reviewer, this backpack is wonderful even if you're not a parent. They wrote, "Do I have a baby? No. Do I have a job where I leave the house and think, I hope I get home at a normal hour. Yes. This bag not only holds the regular work stuff, laptop, notebook, etc., but I can keep my lunch cold in the front pocket with an ice pack and a Poppi cold in one of the other insulated bottle pockets so I can actually eat without having to resort to fast food. Baby or not, just buy this backpack, it's perfection!!"

Convertible Mini Diaper Backpack

For the busy bee parents who prefer to travel light with just the essentials, the Convertible Mini Diaper Backpack is the way to go (especially if you're traveling with your little one). Compact yet spacious, the bag is equipped with a padded tablet sleeve, insulated bottle pockets, and a convenient transport handle. You can easily adjust the straps to find your preferred fit — or, wear it as a chic crossbody!

One CALPAK reviewer raved, "I love the feeling of this bag. And all the pockets. It's a good size I have two kids and I can fit everything for them and the front pocket is perfect for my stuff. Put the elastic to the top of the strap where you can loosen or tighten it and it won't move."

Diaper Tote Bag with Laptop Sleeve

Your classic diaper tote, but better. This new CALPAK edition is the ultimate solution for expert parenting & uninterrupted productivity. Featuring an elevated-chic design made from durable & water-resistant material, the bag is perfection down to the details, from the built-in baby wipe compartment and 16" laptop pocket to the adjustable shoulder strap, luggage trolly sleeve, and insulated bottle pockets.

According to one shopper's experience, "Versatile, Functional, Clean, Fashionable. I absolutely love it. My husband and I swear by Calpak and I was SO excited when they announced their baby collection. I dropped our old baby backpack & bought this tote as soon as it was available. I can fit SO much in the tote - 10+ diapers, multiple packing cubes of extra misc. items like baby clothes, lotion/powder/meds, burp cloths, a book & toys, snacks, a full pack of wipes, my wallet & keys, my Dr. Browns freezer bag, and more. There are so many storage pockets & options for your gear. Easy to access your items (which we all love). Very happy about the 3 tall & spacious insulated pockets for my drinks & my little one's bottles - that was always a problem area with my old baby bags. And the material - it is so easy to clean. All around, this is an amazing bag and I cannot wait to add the backpack & changing pad to our collection."

CALPAK Portable Changing Pad Clutch

Parents, say hello to your new favorite sidekick — the Portable Changing Pad Clutch . Intuitively designed to keep you prepared for diaper changes on the go (minus the bulky bags and chaotic searches for a clean spot), the clutch features a baby wipe pocket, detachable changing pad, water-resistant lining, breathable mesh pocket, and collapsible hanging hook.

CALPAK Convertible Stroller Caddy Crossbody

From morning strolls at the park to afternoons playdates, this convertible crossbody will keep all of your baby's essentials close by. It features an adjustable magnetic closure, multiple interior & exterior pockets, expandable sides & more. The bag also comes with a convenient D-ring attachment and stroller straps so you can easily switch between crossbody and caddy styling.

According to one CALPAK shopper, "So many diaper bags and baby products are cringey but this is the perfect mix of practical AND cute. We use this on our Doona because there's no storage on it and we throw it in tote bag when it's not on our stroller. It's on the smaller size so it will only fit essentials., so it's great to use when we're going out for a short trip out. We bought a compact changing mat and it fits in there great. Overall, LOVE this and excited to put to good use!"

CALPAK Stroller Straps for Diaper Bag - Set of 2

While shoulder straps are included with the Convertible Stroller Caddy Crossbody , you can also purchase the stroller straps separately to effortlessly turn your CALPAK Baby Bag into a chic, functional stroller caddy.

Shop More Bestselling CALPAK Picks

Calpak luka duffel.

The Luka Duffel is one of the brand's most beloved items, and right now, you can score it in a gorgeous, limited-edition pink shade on sale. The duffel is the peak combination of quality, practicality, and design; it's decked out with cool features like an exterior shoe compartment, luggage trolley sleeve, and all the interior/exterior pockets you need to stay organized for travel, work, the gym & more. Did we mention that it's available in two sizes and a wide range of oh-so-stylish colors?

CALPAK Insulated Lunch Bag

Lunch time never looked so good. The Insulated Lunch Bag , which comes in multiple colors & patterns, is fitted with insulated lining and water-resistant interior to keep your food in pristine condition until you're ready to chow down. All you have to do in the morning is pack it, pull the drawstring shut, and you're all good to go!

CALPAK Water Bottle Holder

For the girlies making big moves on the daily, the Water Bottle Holder is a must-have everyday essential. Made from water-resistant ripstop nylon that's easy to wipe down, the holder is designed with an insulated interior, a top carry handle, and a detachable shoulder strap for staying hands-free on the go. Plus, the multiple exterior pockets are perfect for storing everything from sunscreen to snacks, hand sanitizer & more.

CALPAK Large Clear Cosmetics Case

Spacious, chic, and practical, this see-through cosmetic case will come in handy during your daily beauty routine or when you're jetting off for spring break. Not only is it lightweight and water-resistant, the case also features dual carrying handles, two spacious zippered compartments, and a mesh interior zippered pocket for small essentials.

CALPAK Packing Cubes Set - 5 Pieces

If you're planning a trip anytime soon (or in the more distant future), these packing cubes will totally transform your travel game. The set comes with five cubes featuring durable mesh fabric, and it includes a water-resistant envelope pouch. Keep your luggage organized and travels stress-free from start to finish with these gorgeous & functional accessories.

Looking to shop more must-have bags that are as cute as they are functional? You'r in luck, because Free People finally restocked their bestselling quilted carryall  — we predict they'll sell out again soon, so get a move on!

Best overall

Best expandable, best stylish, best budget.

  • What to look for
  • How we tested

How to prepare a cat for flying

The 4 best airline-approved cat carriers of 2024, tested and reviewed.

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Air travel with a cat is stressful, but one of the best airline-approved cat carriers can make it easier. When a cat is flying at your feet in the plane cabin, a durable soft-sided carrier with some key features will ensure your pet's comfort and safety, and your peace of mind.

To select the best carriers for flying with a cat, we spoke with a veterinarian and pet travel experts and tested 24 different airline-friendly pet carriers. Our top pick, the Sleepypod Air , is as durable as it is comfortable for pets and humans alike. If you're looking for a more affordable airline cat carrier, the simple Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag will keep your kitty comfortable from the beginning to the end of your journey.

Keep in mind that carrier size requirements vary by airline. Delta , American Airlines , and United allow pet carriers up to 18 inches (L) by 11 inches (W) by 11 inches (H). Some airlines have smaller maximum sizes, so make sure to check the airline's website before embarking with your pet.

Read more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products .

Our top picks for the best airline-approved cat carriers

Best overall: Sleepypod Air - See at Chewy

Best expandable: Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier - See at Amazon

Best stylish: Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier - See at Amazon

Best budget: Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag - See at Chewy

travel suitcase with backpack straps

The crash-test-certified Sleepypod Air has plush bedding, optimal ventilation, and a roomy interior to keep cats calm and comfortable in the air and on the ground.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional privacy screen
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Double-layered mesh
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Crash-test certified
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Ample storage
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Padded carry handle
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Washable interior mat
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Unzips into bed or car seat
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Carry handle may cause discomfort for those with larger hands due to its small size
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Expensive

Our cat testers weren't shy about expressing their clear preference for the Sleepypod Air. During a recent trip to the vet, they both piled into the carrier, opting for its cozy sanctuary over their other carrier. The Sleepypod Air's plush bedding, just-right ventilation, and spacious interior proved calming and comfortable. For skittish fliers, the carrier includes a privacy screen you can slide through the mesh top, though this significantly reduces your cat's access to fresh air.

The carrier stands out for its innovative design and commitment to pet safety — it's certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization that researches and crash-tests pet carriers to ensure their safety. Rather than doors, it features one continuous zipper that runs end to end. With one pull of the zipper, the carrier transforms into an open bed, converts into a car seat, or rolls up for convenient storage. It's also designed to fold in approximately 2.5 inches at each end, meeting the size requirements of most major airlines. We recommend practicing compressing the bag before your trip. 

The padded cross-body shoulder strap felt supportive, and the carrier rested comfortably against the body without collapsing inward. With the luggage strap, the carrier easily stayed balanced on a suitcase when rolling over curbs and rough sidewalks.

The Sleepypod Air isn't cheap. However, given its versatility, comfort, and impressive safety features, we believe it's well worth the investment. You can return it, used or unused, within a year, and Sleepypod guarantees a replacement if it's damaged in an auto accident.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier unzips to almost double in size, providing a cat with extra room on long travel days.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Front and top-loading carrier
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Expandable compartment for more space
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Secure luggage strap
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Padded detachable shoulder strap
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Washable interior bed
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Easy to store
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited pocket space
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Expandable section can't be used in flight
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No warranty

On long travel days with time spent in airports, Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier offers jet-setting cats extra space to stretch out. It includes a zippered panel on its right side that unfolds into a mesh atrium that nearly doubles the carrier's interior space. While the expandable section can't be used in flight, this feature makes it the best airline-approved cat carrier for cross-country flights with layovers and extended stays away from home.

The spacious carrier is front- and top-loading with a roll-up privacy flap over the top door, and it offers plenty of ventilation to keep a cat from overheating. Inside, there is a soft plush bolster bed and safety tether. Outside, it has an adjustable padded shoulder strap and a faux leather carry handle. There is one 10-inch by 4-inch mesh pocket on the backside. 

With sturdy mesh screens and smooth zippers, Mr. Peanut's carrier excelled in our testing. It was easy to spot clean, and although the bed is labeled hand-wash only, it came out of the washing machine looking nearly new after air-drying.

When we tested the luggage strap, the carrier remained mostly balanced on our suitcase, slipping only about an inch to one side. Carrying it on the shoulder was comfortable, and the strap was easy to adjust to the correct length.

travel suitcase with backpack straps

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier stands out for its eye-catching design that prioritizes safety in the air and at your destination, all without compromising on convenience or comfort.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Multiple pockets
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Side panel opening for easy access
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Offers the least ventilation of the carriers tested
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Interior mat is spot-clean only

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier not only looks great but also prioritizes safety. Like the Sleepypod Air, it is crash-test certified by the CPS . It also has an interior safety tether and a zipper-locking mechanism to prevent unintentional openings during transit.  

The cushy interior mat provides maximum comfort for your kitty copilot while the padded cross-body and secure luggage straps ensure that your precious cargo has a smooth journey from point A to point B. We also appreciate the thoughtful conveniences for human travelers, including three pockets for storing your or your cat's belongings, including a large 16-inch by 6-inch front zipper pocket. There's a D-ring to clip your keys too. 

In case of accidents, the carrier comes with one custom-fitted pee pad (more sold separately) that you can access via a side panel to minimize disturbing your pet. The nylon fabric carrier has a moisture-resistant quality that causes liquids to bead up on contact, so bigger messes won't readily adhere. However, the mat has a bolstered edge where gunk can get stuck, so you'll want to thoroughly spot-clean the interior cushion once you reach your destination. 

Despite the carrier's 20-inch length, each side compresses by an inch, ensuring it meets most in-cabin airline regulations. Despite the carrier's 20-inch length, each side compresses by an inch, ensuring it meets most in-cabin airline regulations. The width of the carrier also exceeds airline regulations by a half inch but as long as you don't overstuff the side pocket, it can compress. 

travel suitcase with backpack straps

This Frisco cat carrier is a cozy and budget-friendly option that holds up well to wear and tear.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Two loading doors
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Velcro-secured pocket
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Holds large cats
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comes with ID tags and collapsible travel dish
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Shoulder strap lacks padding
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Luggage strap not as secure as other carriers
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only one color option

Although this carrier is a fraction of the price of our other picks, it still performed well in durability testing. At home, it was also the carrier our tester cats consistently chose to lounge in time and time again. Simply put, the cozy Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag is an excellent budget airline cat carrier.

Susan Nilson , a cat and dog trainer and behavior specialist, recommends leaving a carrier with the doors open at home so your cat can get accustomed to it before travel. We did just that, and the carrier quickly became one of our cats' favorite spots to nap. Even after machine washing the interior fleece mat, it didn't lose its softness or cat appeal.

The carrier has two doors, top and side, and two storage pockets: a secure Velcro pocket to stash your keys and phone and a mesh pocket to keep your cat's treats and travel documents easily accessible. The included collapsible silicone bowl and ID tag ticks two essentials off your packing list.

The adjustable shoulder strap and carry handle lack padding and may become uncomfortable on longer journeys. Similar to pricier options, the Frisco carrier includes a luggage strap designed to attach the carrier to the telescopic handle of your suitcase. However, the strap doesn't keep the carrier well-balanced on curbs and sidewalks, so you'll want to have a free hand for added support. 

What to look for in an airline cat carrier

Cat carriers come in many different styles at varying price points. To ensure you get the best value for safety and comfort, our experts recommend considering the following factors when shopping.

Safety: Unlike child car seats, there are no universal safety standards or inspections for cat carriers. However, some brands go the extra mile by subjecting their carriers to rigorous testing by reputable third-party or nonprofit safety organizations. Among our recommended picks, the Sleepypod Air and Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier have been crash-test certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization that studies the safety of pet products. 

Currently, CPS studies do not extend to air travel and flight safety. Despite the absence of standardized air travel safety tests, crash-test certification remains the gold standard. As Lindsey Wolko, founder and CEO of CPS, points out, you'll want to consider your entire journey, including driving from your home to the airport and transportation at your destination. 

Wolko says carriers are most susceptible to failure at seams where the mesh connects to the carrier body. She recommends inspecting carriers for any signs of loose threads, weak spots, or faulty zippers to ensure their overall safety and reliability throughout transit.

Size: A carrier should be roomy enough for your cat to comfortably turn around and lie down while still being compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Carrier size requirements vary by airline, so double-check your airline's specific requirements.   

Fortunately, size isn't usually a limiting factor for cats. More often than not, they prefer to curl up in a small ball and hide during the trip, says Dr. Jo Myers , a veterinarian with Vetster. She says extra room for playing, eating, drinking, or using the litter box during the flight is typically unnecessary. However, if you anticipate a long layover and want extra legroom for your cat, an expandable carrier like Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier is a good choice.

Weight restrictions: Many in-cabin cat carriers are suitable for cats weighing up to 15 or 18 pounds. If your cat is on the heavier side, double-check the weight limit for the carrier you're considering purchasing and make sure your cat has room to comfortably move around in the carrier.  

Ventilation: Most carriers are designed with enough ventilation (at least 16%) to meet the International Air Transport Association (IATA) minimum requirement . Some carriers may have less or more, so the amount of ventilation you choose depends on you and your cat's preferences. 

Since Myers says most cats prefer to hide in stressful environments, carriers with privacy walls and flaps may be beneficial. Alternatively, she recommends bringing a towel or blanket that you can place over the carrier if your cat becomes stressed. "Even if you cover the carrier with a towel, it's far from airtight," she says. "Simply check on your cat occasionally, without disturbing them any more than necessary."

How we tested airline-approved pet carriers

We developed our selection and testing criteria for this guide to the best airline-approved cat carriers with advice from our experts. The 24 carriers we evaluated underwent the tests described here.

Feature comparison: After conducting interviews with our experts, we created a point rubric for scoring each carrier based on the following features:

  • Shape and design
  • Interior mat
  • Loading doors
  • Carrying straps and handles
  • Ventilation
  • Privacy flaps
  • Interior safety tether
  • Luggage strap
  • Dimensions and in-cabin airline capability
  • Safety certifications
  • Ease of storage

Scrape test: We scraped a mesh section of each carrier 50 times with a fork to test its durability, noting any damage or discoloration. 

Zip test: To test the durability of each carrier's zippers, we completely zipped and unzipped one of its loading entrances 50 times. In the process, we observed changes in the zipper's ability to smoothly run its course.

Luggage test: If a carrier included a luggage strap, we evaluated how well it remained balanced on top of a suitcase. We placed a 10-pound weight inside and attached the carrier to a suitcase handle so it rested on top of our luggage. Then we rolled it over a curb, up a ramp, and along the sidewalk and street of a city block. 

Ventilation test: According to Wolko, ventilation is important to prevent a cat from overheating during travel. We measured the dimensions of each carrier's mesh panels and calculated the percentage of the total surface area they comprised. We favored bags with more ventilation. According to IATA live animal regulations, pet carrier bags must have a minimum of 16% ventilation. 

Walk test: We took each soft-sided carrier containing a 10-pound weight on a 15-minute walk around a neighborhood. Each was carried using the shoulder strap and held at the front of the body the way a person would if they had a real cat inside. For the last block of the walk, we switched to using the hand-carry straps. The backpack carriers were taken on the same walk but were not carried by hand. With each one, we paid attention to how comfortable it was to carry, how much it bounced, and whether it collapsed inwards.

Goop test: We devised this test to determine how easy it would be to clean the carriers if a cat vomited or defecated in transit. We mashed together cat kibble, canned food, and water with a mortar and pestle to make the goop, then spread a tablespoon on an exterior wall and interior mat of each carrier. After 48 hours, we wiped the goop from the exterior using dish soap and water and cleaned the mats in the washing machine. 

Drop and stomp tests: We brought the carriers to a local park, loaded each one with a 10-pound weight, and threw them off of a 10-foot play structure, looking for any damage that occurred upon landing. We then rolled the bags several times on the ground with the weight still inside, looking for damage to the stitching, mesh, or zippers. Later, at home, we placed each carrier on a rug and stomped on it a dozen times with bare feet, noting whether its frame changed shape or the bag suffered any other damage.

Airline cat carrier FAQs

What is considered an airline-approved pet carrier.

To fly with a cat in the cabin of a plane, you'll need a soft-sided carrier that fits within the allowable dimensions of the airline, which vary a little from airline to airline. Regardless of the carrier you use, Wolko says to make sure your cat has enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, there should be at least 2 to 3 inches of clearance from the top of their ears to the interior roof of the carrier.

How much does it cost to fly with a cat? 

Fees for flying with a pet in the cabin of a plane vary between carriers. At United Airlines , a one-way flight for your cat adds $125 to your ticket price. At Delta , there is a $95 fee for domestic flights. Flying a cat in the cargo hold on a domestic flight is typically about $300 per trip. Sending a cat on an international flight can cost up to triple that amount.

How much ventilation should a carrier have? 

For soft-sided carriers, Wolko says mesh ventilation should be on at least three sides of the bag. In cargo, airlines require that a kennel is ventilated on all four sides. According to the IATA live animal regulations, both soft- and hard-sided pet carriers must have a minimum of 16% ventilation. 

Do cats need to go to the bathroom on a flight? 

Unless a cat has a medical condition, they will be fine without access to a litter box for the duration of a flight. "Just based on the physiology of cats, they could probably go from Boston to Hawaii without needing to void," says Dr. Bob Murtaugh , a veterinarian and chair of veterinary medicine for the National Academies of Practice.

In the cargo hold, kennels cannot be outfitted with a litter box or anything other than an absorbent liner and a soft bed or blanket. "If the travel day will be more than eight hours, during a layover pet owners can arrange a comfort stop for cats to be let out of their carrier," says Elaine Mathis, pet travel specialist and project manager at Happy Tails Travel . When you let your cat out of their carrier, you'll want to make sure your cat is safely secured with one of the best cat harnesses attached to a leash.

Do cats need food and water on a flight? 

On shorter in-cabin flights, it's unlikely your cat will require food or water. However, if you're flying your cat in cargo, Mathis says a food bowl and water bowl should be in the carrier regardless of the flight length. She recommends using dishes that fasten to the crate's door and can be refilled easily from the outside, such as Lixit's Quick Lock Crock 10-ounce bowls .

What are the signs that my cat may be in distress in flight?

According to Murtaugh, a few obvious signs may indicate your cat is in distress during a flight, either due to fear or excessive heat. A cat that is panting, restless, and vocalizing could be experiencing significant anxiety or overheating. If the membranes in their gums turn bright red, the latter is most likely, and it's important to cool them off quickly. If a flight attendant approves, placing the carrier on your lap so they can feel the air blowing from the vent above your seat or wiping them down with a wet cloth may help lower their body temperature. Before your travel, Nilson recommends lightly spraying the carrier with calming pheromones. 

In the weeks before their trip, introduce your cat to their carrier or kennel in a positive way. "Make the carrier feel like a cave or a home or something that's comfortable, something that they're not just jammed into the first time they're on their way to the airport," says Murtaugh.

Place the carrier in an area of the home where your cat spends a lot of time and encourage them to explore it by placing catnip and treats inside or by playing with them in and around the space. 

Murtaugh says that taking your cat on a car ride or other forms of transportation while in their carrier may also be helpful in the weeks before the flight. He recommends placing a bed or blanket that smells like home inside the carrier and using a pheromone spray or collar to help take the edge off. 

If your cat has a history of experiencing debilitating stress during travel and will be flying in the cabin, you can speak to your vet about prescribing an anxiety-relieving medication. However, it's important to test medication out before your flight. "Make sure there won't be any untoward side effects," says Murtaugh. "Your vet can help you tailor that to your cat's needs."

The IATA recommends against sedating a cat before flying in the cargo hold. It can be fatal for older, chronically sick, or highly stressed animals. Nilson says calming pheromones such as Feliway or Pet Remedy are safe alternatives.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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9 Best Yoga Bags for Every Type of Practice in 2024

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By Sara Coughlin

9 Best Yoga Bags for Every Type of Practice in 2024

For an activity as physically and mentally restorative as yoga, it can raise some stressful questions—namely, how are you supposed to lug all your gear (not only your mat but potentially a towel, water bottle, and change of clothes) to the studio? Before you shove everything into an old tote bag and hope for the best, consider investing in a dedicated yoga mat bag. There are tons on the market that are protective, spacious, cute, and make hauling your stuff less of a strain on your body. Check out our favorites here, and save the energy you would have spent Tetris-ing all your things in a regular bag on cleaning your mat regularly.

Our top picks

  • Best Overall: Manduka Go Steady 3.0 Mat Carrier
  • Best Budget: Yogiii Yoga Mat Bag
  • Best Strap: Lululemon Adjustable Yoga Mat Strap
  • Best Backpack: Aurorae Yoga Mat Crossbody Travel Sling Backpack
  • Best for Hot Yoga: Hugger Mugger Uinta Yoga Mat Bag
  • Best for Large Mats: Kuak Large Yoga Bag

What should you look for in a yoga mat bag?

The best yoga mat bags.

Like any good gym bag, a high-quality yoga mat holder should be easy to carry over your shoulder or wear across your body without digging in or causing chaffing. It should also be roomy enough to hold all of your belongings (bonus points if it has pockets or internal compartments to organize everything). And if you regularly attend hot yoga classes, you should look for one that’s made with water-resistant materials, so you can keep your sweaty gear contained post-practice. If you’re a minimalist who prefers a humble yoga mat strap, look for one that won’t loosen at a moment’s notice. An adjustable length, buckles, and other types of fasteners will help the strap fit securely around your mat for your whole commute.

Below, we’ve selected some of the best yoga bags you can purchase now, whether you’re looking for one that will do double-duty as your main gym bag, or just something that can hold your mat plus your phone and keys.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

GO Steady Mat Carrier

GO Steady Mat Carrier

Best Overall

  • Pros: Internal organization, breathable interior, water-resistant
  • Cons: Can be difficult to fit bulkier gear like yoga blocks

Naturally, Manduka, the maker of our favorite yoga mat , also makes a top-notch mat bag. The water-resistant Go Steady 3.0 carrier fits a standard yoga mat in its main compartment, which is perforated to encourage airflow (a major plus when you’re heading home from a sweaty practice). It also has a few internal pockets for your towel, extra clothes, and other essentials. And, thanks to its adjustable shoulder strap, you can wear it like a crossbody or tote bag.

Yoga Mat Bag

Yoga Mat Bag

Best Budget

  • Pros: Affordable, available in several colors and prints, machine washable
  • Cons: Not as protective or structured as other options on this list

Whether you’re a beginner who doesn’t want to commit to a pricey bag right away or just someone who prefers a simple mat carrier, this yoga tote is a great choice. The main compartment is deep, the outer pocket can fit a water bottle or towel, and the thick strap is comfortable and easy to sling over your shoulder. One thing to note is the Yogiii bag doesn’t have any zippers, snaps, or clasps, so be mindful of where you put any valuables.

Adjustable Yoga Mat Strap

Adjustable Yoga Mat Strap

  • Pros: Adjustable, equipped with strong buckles
  • Cons: Not protective

A yoga strap keeps your pre- and post-flow pack-up nice and simple: Just loop it around the ends of your mat, throw it over your shoulder, and go. Of course, lower-quality straps can make this process less than seamless—maybe they come loose or they aren’t long enough to wear comfortably. Lululemon’s mat strap dodges those little annoyances with an adjustable length and sturdy buckles to secure the loops around your mat.

Yoga Mat Crossbody Travel Sling Back Pack

Yoga Mat Crossbody Travel Sling Back Pack

Best Backpack

  • Pros: Secure mat pocket and strap, wet clothing compartment
  • Cons: Some reviewers say it’s not super durable

With this sling style backpack’s level of organization, you can keep your most important personal items easily accessible, and avoid fumbling through a shapeless main compartment. It has a phone pocket that’s built into the main strap, a side pocket for your water bottle, a lined compartment for wet clothes, and, of course, a larger side pocket and strap to hold your mat.

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Hugger Mugger

Uinta Yoga Mat Bag

Paragon Sports

Best for Hot Yoga

  • Pros: Breathable, lightweight
  • Cons: Doesn’t accommodate larger mats (according to Amazon reviewers)

If you’re bringing home a pile of sweaty gear, ventilation is key. That’s why the highly breathable Uinta bag from Hugger Mugger caught our eye: It was designed with hot yoga in mind, so it’s primarily made of moisture-wicking material, and its bottom is made of mesh. The external cargo pocket is a great spot for your wallet and phone, and there’s a dedicated ring for your keys on the outside, too.

Go Play Yoga Mat Carrier

Go Play Yoga Mat Carrier

Best for the Light Packer

  • Pros: Lightweight, secure buckles, water-resistant
  • Cons: Limited storage space

There’s lugging a ton of stuff in a heavy-duty mat bag, there’s traveling ultra-light with just a strap, and then there’s packing a few non-negotiable items alongside your mat.

For anyone who likes the idea of that third approach, there’s the Go Play carrier from Manduka. It’s shaped like a mat strap (complete with buckle-equipped loops), but has a spacious zipper pocket for your must-haves. Think of it as a fanny pack for your yoga mat.

Journey Yoga Mat Bag

Journey Yoga Mat Bag

Best for Yoga Accessories

  • Pros: Very spacious, easy to pack
  • Cons: Can be cumbersome

We love yoga accessories like blocks, towels, and bolsters, but they can take up a lot of space. Luckily, the Journey Yoga Mat Bag from Hugger Mugger has room to spare: The main compartment is large enough to hold your props of choice, while the zippered pocket at the base of the bag holds a standard-sized yoga mat. Reviewers report fitting multiple blocks, blankets, a change of clothes, and more yoga must-haves without having to squeeze them in. It also has smaller pockets for your keys, phone, and other valuables.

Yoga Mat Bag

Best for Large Mats

  • Pros: Very sturdy, spacious
  • Cons: A little slouchy and unstructured (per some reviewers)

Made with double shoulder straps and a large main compartment, this sturdy canvas bag is perfect if your mat is wider, thicker, longer, or some combination thereof compared to a standard-sized yoga mat. It has a zippered opening, features five pockets and pouches (including one for your water bottle), and can go straight in the washer if you notice things are starting to get a little funky.

Wunderlust Weekender Bag

Wunderlust Weekender Bag (48-L.)

Best Gym Bag Combo

  • Pros: Spacious, well-organized, water-repellent
  • Cons: Pricey

If you’re pairing your yoga practice with a run, lifting session, or even a quick trip, Lululemon’s Wunderlust weekender is just the right size. It looks like a regular duffel bag and has all the features you’d expect from one (including handles and a crossbody strap; interior and exterior pockets; and a roomy main compartment), but it also has a pair of adjustable external straps to fasten around your yoga mat. So, you can have your mat, sneakers, workout clothes, and everything else you need for a day spent bopping from the studio to the gym—without feeling like a pack mule.

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SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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