The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on
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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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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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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 Carry-on Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
For frequent fliers or light-packing vacationers, these are the best carry-on bags.
In This Article
Jump to a Section
- Our top picks
- Others We Liked
Our Testing Process
- Tips For Buying
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Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim
Every frequent flier needs a good carry-on. And even if you travel only occasionally, you'll be glad to have one on hand. But besides allowing you to bypass checked baggage, what makes a high-quality carry-on? If you ask us, it's about capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design.
With this in mind, we tested more than 150 carry-ons, including suitcases, duffels, weekenders, backpacks, and underseat bags to see which models check all the boxes. We packed them up, spun them around, hoisted them overhead, rolled them over various surfaces, and whacked them with a baseball bat to see how they'd hold up in a real-life setting. The results of these tests were considered — along with price, weight, dimensions, materials, and smart features — to narrow down the best carry-ons currently on the market.
Best Overall
Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.
- Capacity 5 /5
- Design 5 /5
- Maneuverability 5 /5
- Durability 5 /5
Earning perfect scores in all tests, this all-star carry-on has a spacious capacity, a super-durable thermoplastic shell, and smooth-rolling wheels.
There's no designated zippered section for dirty clothes.
We tried lots of excellent suitcases, but the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner was a clear winner. Earning perfect scores in all our tests, it's easy to maneuver on two or four wheels and rolls smoothly on various surfaces, including carpet and hard flooring. We also like that the aluminum telescoping handle extends and locks with the push of a button. This all-star suitcase has various pockets within the main compartment, and it expands a couple of inches when you need extra space. We were able to pack enough clothes for a four-day trip, including two pairs of shoes, multiple jackets, and two toiletry bags — no expansion needed. We wish this carry-on had a zippered section or removable bag for dirty laundry, but it does have a separator to keep your shoes away from your clean clothes.
We loved the sleek, minimalist-modern design of the Freeform, which comes in 12 hues ranging from white to mint to merlot. After hitting it with a baseball bat, the polycarbonate (high-strength thermoplastic) shell remained scuff-free and showed virtually no signs of damage. Even after six months of regularly traveling with this bag, it shows no signs of wear and tear, and any scuffs it has accumulated have been easily buffed out. Considering the reasonable price, durable construction, and spacious capacity, we think it's a great choice for frequent fliers and anyone in need of a high-quality carry-on.
The Details: 21 x 15 x 10 inches | 5.6 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | 10-year limited warranty
Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best Overall, Runner-up
Tumi dual access 4 wheeled carry-on.
This bag has two access points and a removable garment bag for a suit or dress.
When the front-access section is fully packed, it will eat into the space in the main compartment.
The Tumi International Dual Access carry-on was a close runner-up to the Samsonite Freeform. It moves like a dream on various types of flooring, thanks to the four smooth-gliding dual spinner wheels and comfortable telescoping handle. Even after using the bag for three months, the wheels never got caught on any surfaces, making it easy to run through the airport or navigate a new city. Made of the brand's signature ballistic nylon, it also passed our baseball bat test with flying colors.
We were able to pack everything into the bag’s various compartments and loved the flexibility of a removable suiter for trips with dressier attire. The clamshell design also features several interior pockets and compression straps on one half to easily hold our four-day-trip packing list. The front-access portion can easily fit a sweater or light layer when the main suitcase isn’t stuffed full, or you can use it for tech items or a small makeup bag instead. There are also two pockets on the exterior for smaller items like an umbrella and a built-in USB port you can connect to a power bank (sold separately). Though the price is higher than many other carry-ons, this is an investment in an undoubtedly high-quality carrier that will last for years to come.
The Details: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 10.7 pounds | Softside | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels | 5-year warranty
Watch How We Test Luggage
Best expandability, away the carry-on flex.
- Organization 5 /5
- Maneuverability 4.5 /5
- Durability 4.8 /5
This carry-on is pretty spacious to begin with, but you can unzip the expander for 2.25 inches of extra space.
It might not meet all carry-on sizing requirements when you fully expand it.
This durable carry-on manages to be compact and portable while still offering a ton of space inside thanks to two large interior compartments and a helpful compression system. You can zip your items in on one side and buckle them in on the other, using the mesh pockets to store smaller items for organization. As all overpackers know, sometimes you just need a few extra inches of space — and The Carry-on Flex features a zipper expander that adds an additional 2.25 inches if you happen to buy one souvenir too many on a trip and need to fit it all in on the way home. However, be wary of your airline’s overhead bin allowances because using the expander may make your carry-on one inch too large, and you may be forced to check it (the expanded dimensions of the bag are 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches).
Other highlights we loved during testing included the smooth wheels that can roll in any direction; the different height options of the handle; and the notch on the underside of the bag that makes it so much easier to lift out of a car trunk, into an overhead bin, or off of a luggage carousel. The bag also felt very sturdy and tough with no dents and barely a scratch after we threw it off counters and hit it repeatedly with a baseball bat during testing.
The Details: 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches | 8.15 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty
Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
July Carry On Trunk
- Capacity 4.5 /5
We love this trunk for how sleek and stylish it looks while still having useful features like an ejectable power bank and a customizable handle height.
You have to be more intentional about what you pack since the trunk has no expandability.
This stylish carry-on trunk features a clamshell design that opens right down the middle rather than the 30/70 design that many trunks typically have. It feels like a luxury bag thanks to the zipperless clasp closures, ejectable power bank, and multi-stop rubber handle (you can customize the handle to sit at any height you want). We found the trunk super easy to maneuver over different surfaces like carpet and concrete pavers during testing, and it rolled effortlessly on four wheels. When we rolled it on two wheels, it did slow down slightly, but it was still easy to move, and the weight felt evenly distributed through the bag and handle.
We never thought a glossy exterior could be so scuff-proof — the trunk had no scuffs at all even after we pushed it off a counter three times. We did manage to give it a few very small dents after hitting the trunk with a baseball bat, but they were barely noticeable. One thing to note is that this trunk has no give because of its hard shell and clasp closures, so you cannot overstuff it, and you have to be more picky with your packing list.
The Details: 21.5 x 14.75 x 8.75 inches | 8.4 pounds | Limited lifetime warranty | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels
Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim
- Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson
Best Lightweight
Delsey paris hardside expandable luggage with spinner wheels.
- Maneuverability 4 /5
- Durability 4.7 /5
At just over five pounds, this hardside suitcase is lightweight and compact while still fitting an impressive amount of clothes.
It sustained minor denting during testing, and the handle is somewhat short and felt a little loose.
The carry-ons we tested ranged in weight from about 13 pounds down to 4.36 pounds. Weighing just over five pounds, the Delsey Clavel was the best lightweight option we tried. This hardside spinner has a polypropylene (thermoplastic) shell that held up pretty well during our tests, though a particularly hard bat swing did dent it slightly. After traveling with the bag for six months, it only has minor scuffs — even after it was checked. While it looks small, it holds a surprising amount of clothes, even without the expander, and should fit into an overhead bin without any issues.
This carry-on maneuvers well over cracks and bumps. However, the handle is somewhat short and feels slightly loose. Still, we think the price is fair and would recommend it to anyone in the market for lightweight, fuss-free baggage for shorter trips.
The Details: 22 x 14 x 10 inches | 5.3 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | 5-year limited warranty
Best Budget
Amazon basics hardside spinner.
This wallet-friendly carry-on has a scratch-resistant shell and a surprisingly spacious capacity.
It only comes in four colors and doesn't have any smart features or a combination lock.
For something more affordable, look no further than Amazon. We found that this affordable hardside suitcase maneuvers really smoothly, even on carpet and over bumps, and handles turn like a champ. Not only that, but the scratch-resistant shell held up surprisingly well through our bat and drop tests. We were able to fit four days worth of clothing, shoes, and toiletries without having to expand the bag, though we're comforted by the fact that there's room to spare. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found it to be the perfect size for weekend trips. The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner exceeded our expectations in more ways than one. And while it only comes in four colors, we're big fans of the simple, sleek design.
The Details: 22 x 15 x 10 inches | 6.3 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels
Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
Best With Laptop Compartment
Samsonite just right carry-on spinner.
Samsonite
- Durability 4 /5
It’s packed with organization features, including a padded laptop sleeve, a wireless charging pocket, and removable packing cubes.
There was some peeling and scratching on the outer material and wheels of the bag after our durability tests.
If you tend to travel with a laptop and other devices, the Samsonite Just Right Carry-on Spinner is especially handy with a tech organizational panel that you can unzip and unfold at the front of the bag to easily store and access your valuables. This panel features a 15-inch laptop sleeve, a padded tablet sleeve, a document sleeve, a wireless charging pocket, a USB charging port, and plenty of zippered storage pockets. There are locks for both the main compartment and the laptop compartment, and the bag also comes with removable packing cubes for additional organization.
Though the suitcase felt a bit heavy after we packed it, it was very easy to maneuver, gliding through turns and different terrains beautifully. It suffered some minor marks after we threw it off counters and hit it with a baseball bat, including some peeling and scratching on the exterior and the wheels. One of the top corners was ever so slightly dented as well, but chances are you’ll stick this carry-on in the overhead bin rather than checking it so it won’t get banged around as much, especially if you have your laptop inside. All of the built-in tech compartments, elastic compression straps, and bonus packing cubes are an excellent way to keep all of your valuables in place.
The Details: 22 x 14 x 9.3 inches | 7.9 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels | Limited 10-year warranty
Best Softside
L.l. bean medium carryall pullman.
This rugged softside bag has plenty of pockets for organization, including one for shoes.
The main handle only has one height setting, and the additional grab handle is located on the left side of the suitcase, which is more convenient for lefties.
The L.L.Bean Carryall Spinner Pullman is a redesign from L.L.Bean’s luggage collection, made with a new fabric and design that we love for a softside carry-on. The rugged, abrasion-resistant material on the outside of the suitcase feels like it can stand up to rough handling, and the shell of the bag has some rigidity that makes it feel extra sturdy for a softside bag. We also loved this carry-on for its unique outer pockets that you just can’t find on a hardside bag, like a shoe pocket that keeps your dirty boots or sneakers separate from the clean clothing inside. We packed socks and underwear in the zipper compartment on the lid of the suitcase, which saved interior space for the rest of our clothing. While the carry-on rolled smoothly on the concrete and linoleum floor of our obstacle course, it was a little harder to maneuver over carpet. It also caught our attention that the side handle is located on the left side of the bag, which made it a little awkward for our righties to hoist the carry-on into the overhead bins on our airplane set — although this would be a plus for left-handed travelers.
The Details: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 7.9 pounds | Softside | 4 spinner wheels | 1-year return policy
People / Joy Kim
Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 21-inch Spinner
The Chatelet Air 2.0 has a gorgeous vintage appeal, and despite the elevated aesthetics, it doesn't sacrifice functionality or durability.
It's not expandable, so the compact design is best for short trips.
If luggage aesthetic is a top priority, Delsey's Chatelet Air 2.0 might be your best bet. Inspired by traditional Parisian architecture with unique lines, contrast stitching, and a vintage appeal, this suitcase is a sight for sore eyes. Sleek design aside, it's exceptionally functional. There's a fully zippered compartment on one side and compression straps on the other, plus pockets throughout and even a handy USB port.
What's more, the zippers open and close smoothly, and it glides effortlessly with the four spinner wheels on carpet, hard floors, and even stone pavers. It's durable, too, sustaining no visible damage after three months of use including two international flights in which the bag was checked. This bag is a standard carry-on size, and we were able to fit everything on our packing list . However, it’s probably best for short trips as there wasn't really any room to spare when we finished.
The Details: 22 x 15 x 10 inches | 8 pounds | Hardside | USB port | 4 dual spinner wheels | 10-year limited warranty
- Leticia Almeida
Most Spacious
Travelpro x travel + leisure carry-on spinner.
Travelpro
This 45-liter carry-on has plenty of room, a two-inch expander, and tons of interior organization.
It may not fit in some overhead bins if you use the expander.
Spaciousness is key when it comes to a carry-on, especially if you’re using it as your main suitcase. This 45-liter Travelpro carry-on had an impressive amount of space for our packing list during testing, and it also has a generous two-inch expander if you need more room. While some hardside bags are very rigid, we noticed that this one has a bit of give if you do need to pack it extra full. Despite being slightly flexible, it proved to be rock-solid when it comes to durability, surviving our drop and bat tests without a single scratch. We think this makes an excellent investment for frequent flyers with top-notch organization inside, including two split-case compartments with two separate zippered divider panels, multiple accessory pockets, and a removable pouch. We were also impressed with the quality of the compression straps, which were adjustable and stylish without sacrificing durability.
The Details: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | 8.6 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty
Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang
Most Durable
Briggs & riley sympatico domestic carry-on expandable spinner 22-inch.
- Capacity 4 /5
- Design 4 /5
- Value 4.5 /5
The shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate stands up to dents and scratches, and the wheels glide with ease over bumps and around corners.
It's expensive, and the expander is located on the inside, which is a little counterintuitive.
The most durable carry-on we tested is Briggs & Riley's Sympatico Domestic Spinner. This compact suitcase is undeniably expensive, but hear us out. The exceedingly robust, shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate shell sustained exactly zero dents or scratches during our bat and drop tests and still looks brand new after six months of frequent travel.
Durability aside, this carry-on was easy to maneuver on hard floors and carpet, around tight corners, and even over bumps. It also has a good amount of packing space with plenty of organizational features. We like how thoughtfully designed its features are, with elements like pockets, dividers, and expanding sides that really help you maximize the space in this smaller carry-on bag. One thing to note is that the expander is on the inside, which isn't the most intuitive. Other than that, we loved the look of the glossy exterior and think it definitely reflects the premium price tag.
The Details: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 8.8 pounds | Hardside | Expandable | USB-port | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty
Best Underseat
Calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.
- Design 4.5 /5
- Functionality 5 /5
It's conveniently compact but still spacious enough to hold multiple outfits and maneuvers effortlessly on four spinner wheels.
There's no outer zipper pocket, and it's definitely not as spacious as some others.
Looking for something you can stash underneath the seat in front of you? The 29-liter Hue Mini Carry-On from Calpak might be just the thing. Measuring 16 x 14 x 8 inches, it's conveniently compact but still spacious enough to fit a couple days' worth of outfits. There's also a laptop sleeve, making it a top choice for short business trips. Despite the mini design, the sophisticated color options and modish silhouette will leave no confusion over whether it's for an adult or child. The four spinner wheels offer excellent maneuverability, too, and there's even a TSA-approved lock if you ever decide to check it. If we could change one thing, we'd add an outer pocket for easy access in-flight. But other than that, we think the price is more than fair for the quality, features, and durability.
The Details: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6 pounds | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | 2-year limited warranty
Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph
Best for Organization
Paravel aviator carry-on plus.
- Durability 4.5 /5
A compression board makes it easy to fit everything into the zippered compartments, and there's a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes.
This suitcase isn't expandable, but it's one of the larger carry-ons we tested.
For highly organized travelers, we recommend the Paravel Aviator. After regularly traveling with the bag for six months, we really love the exceptional capacity and organizational features. Even though it's not expandable, the built-in compression board makes it easy to fit everything into the zippered compartments. It also comes with a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes.
Inspired by retro luggage with a modern twist, this classy carry-on is gorgeous. Not only that, but the durable polycarbonate exterior feels sturdy and sustained just a few minor scuffs during our tests. It's super easy to maneuver, too. Although the Paravel Aviator is somewhat steep in price, we think it's a worthwhile investment for those in the market for a high-quality suitcase. While updating your luggage collection, lovers of vintage-inspired design and organization should also consider a train case .
The Details: 23 x 15 x 9.5 inches | 8.5 pounds | Hardside | 4 spinner wheels | USB port | 10-year limited warranty
Best Backpack
Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.
- Comfort 5 /5
It's got a generous capacity, various pockets, a laptop sleeve, contoured straps, and a rain cover for protection from the elements.
The price is pretty steep for a backpack, but you can count on quality.
Clocking perfect scores on all our tests, the best carry-on backpack is definitely the Cotopaxi Allpa. Boasting a generous 35-liter capacity, plus various pockets and compartments, it makes packing pretty stress-free. Not only that, but the side zippers allow for easy access, even when it's stuffed full. There's also a padded sleeve for your laptop or a tablet, plus a portable keyboard .
The pack is available in several cheery colorways with a slightly rugged flair, and we loved the design and looks. It's made of high-strength polyester with ballistic nylon paneling and coated with water-repellent thermoplastic, so you can count on it to hold up for years in various weather conditions. It even comes with a rain cover for an extra layer of protection. The contoured straps make it super comfy to wear, while the handles make it easy to lift overhead.
The Details: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.5 pounds | 35 liters | Nylon
Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best Weekender
Away everywhere bag.
- Portability 5 /5
The clamshell design has two large zippered compartments, plus various pockets, a laptop sleeve, carrying handles, a shoulder strap, and a locking zipper.
It's nearly the size of a carry-on suitcase, and the shoulder strap is a little finicky.
The Large Everywhere Bag from Away is our favorite weekender to bring as a carry-on. It's designed like a clamshell suitcase, folding out from the center to reveal two zippered mesh compartments. After packing it up, it's undoubtedly big enough for a four-day trip — maybe longer. The nylon exterior feels sturdy, albeit a little boxy, and flaunts a professional, minimalist appeal.
This carrier has two handles and a removable shoulder strap. The strap is comfortably padded, and while it's supposed to be adjustable, we found it a bit finicky. Other notable features include a padded laptop sleeve, a magnetic locking zipper, and a trolley sleeve that slides onto the handle of any suitcase. While the Large Everywhere Bag is nearly the size of a rolling carry-on, it's substantially lighter in weight (at under four pounds). We think this is a solid choice for business travel and short trips, whether you get there by plane, train, or automobile.
The Details: 21 x 12 x 9.5 inches | 3.8 pounds | 38 liters | Nylon and leather | 1-year limited warranty
Best Garment Bag
Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.
Mark & Graham
- Ease of Use 5 /5
- Quality 5 /5
- Performance 5 /5
This garment bag is surprisingly spacious yet lightweight, and it folds into a cabin-size duffel with smooth zippers and a trolley sleeve.
It's pricier than most garment bags and isn't backed by a warranty.
This garment bag-duffel hybrid is surprisingly spacious. We fit one suit, a button-down shirt, dress pants, two dresses, a belt, a pair of loafers, stilettos, a water bottle, and a phone inside with no issues. When open, you can hang it from the upper strap and attach multiple hangers to the sturdy iron hook. Then when you're done packing, it's easy to fold up into the duffel configuration.
Though it doesn't roll like a suitcase, the Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag is pretty lightweight, even when packed full. It has two grab handles and a padded shoulder strap, making it easy to lift and carry. There's also a trolley sleeve on the side, allowing you to slide it over your luggage handle so you don't have to carry it on your shoulder. This bag seems well-made and proved durable in our tests — it didn't rip or even scratch when we dragged a stiletto heel across the exterior. The price is steeper than most garment bags , and it's not backed by a warranty. Still, we think it's an excellent choice for frequent business travelers.
The Details: 22 x 10 x 10 inches | Duffel
Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
Other Carry-on Bags We Liked
While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on bags, there were many items that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses with maneuverability, capacity, design, durability, and/or overall value revealed during testing.
Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 Carry-on : We appreciated the large capacity and expandability of this bag, allowing us to easily fit everything on our packing list. But the wheels are somewhat large, which makes it hard to fit into an overhead bin.
Samsonite Tru-Frame Carry-on Spinner : We loved this carry-on for its futuristic, zipperless design and durability, though it felt a bit more compact than some of the more spacious carry-ons on this list.
Tumi Alpha Continental Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-on : This suitcase is an investment, but it has more of a premium feel than most others we tested and is exceptionally sturdy. It is rather heavy, though, at 11.4 pounds and may be a bit wider than most airlines’ carry-on size requirements.
Samsonite Omni PC Expandable Carry-on Spinner : This is a decent option for a lightweight bag, but ultimately we felt some maneuverability issues were enough to keep it off our list of top picks. It didn't turn as sharply as many others and rolling it over carpet was a bit of a challenge.
Arlo Skye The Weekender : This weekender has a spacious interior with a separate shoe compartment and a very large side pocket for electronics and other accessories. We wish the padding on the shoulder strap was adjustable so you could align it better with your height.
Monos Carry-on Plus : We were fond of this carry-on, noting the ample compartments and spacious capacity. However, it was slightly tricky to turn on four wheels, and the handle wasn't quite up to par with others we tested.
Arlo Skye The Zipper Carry-on Max With Front Pocket : Even though it doesn't expand, this suitcase fit everything on our packing list, did well rolling over bumps, and showed no signs of damage from our bat swings. Plus, like some of the other Arlo Skye luggage pieces , it comes with a removable power bank. While we have few complaints. we were concerned about this bag fitting in the overhead bins.
July Carry On Pro : We found this suitcase to be aesthetically pleasing, plenty spacious, and easy to maneuver. While the feature-rich design is enticing, it was pretty similar to the Away Carry-on, which compressed a little better.
The Travel + Leisure team performed various luggage tests in our New York City lab to evaluate the capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design of each carry-on. We filled each bag with enough clothing and essentials for a four-day trip, including six shirts, three pairs of pants, five pairs of socks, five pairs of underwear, two jackets, and two pairs of shoes, plus one small and one large toiletry bag. We then analyzed how well the bags handled the cargo.
After packing them up, we rolled the bags around on different surfaces (when possible) to see how well they maneuvered over pavement and carpet, and we maneuvered them through human obstacle courses to see how they can handle sharp turns in tight spaces. We also recreated an airplane set in our lab to lift the bags into real overhead bins and push them underneath seats. We whacked the fully packed bags with a metal baseball bat and pushed them off a table to see how well they held up to wear and tear.
After testing these bags in the lab, we sent them home with our T+L editors to travel with the bag for a period of six months to continue evaluating the luggage in the real world. Keeping price, size, adjustability, features, and standout quirks in mind, the carry-ons with the highest scores in all testing categories were ultimately chosen for this roundup, and we will continue to update it as we test more carry-ons.
Tips for Buying Carry-on Luggage
Consider hardside vs. softside luggage.
When buying carry-on luggage , you'll see a range of hardside and softside options. Suitcases with hard shells can be better for protecting things from crushing and are generally easy to wipe clean. However, depending on the color and material, they can be prone to scuffing.
Softside luggage, on the other hand, is typically a lighter weight, more flexible if you tend to be an overpacker, and often just as durable as its hardside counterpart. While a textile shell can be trickier to clean, it may not show as much dirt or scuffs either, and it likely won't dent like a hardside bag can.
Look for lightweight construction
Lightweight luggage is crucial when choosing a carry-on. Be sure to note the empty weight of the suitcase or bag before buying it, as heftier designs will make a jam-packed carrier all the more cumbersome. Weight affects not only maneuverability, but also your ability to hoist it into the airplane's overhead bin. The wheeled carry-on suitcases we tested ranged in weight from 4.36 to 12.9 pounds. Anything heavier than that is going to be too heavy for many people.
Decide if you want extra organizational features
Some carry-on luggage is relatively basic, with a main compartment and a pocket or two. However, many suitcases, weekenders, and duffel bags have additional organizational features that make packing and accessing your stuff much easier. This may include a laptop sleeve, a shoe separator, a laundry bag, various zippered sections, exterior pockets, and even charging capabilities .
Choose between handheld, spinner, or two-wheeled luggage
When it comes to choosing the best carry-on bag for you, first consider your traveling style and packing needs. Spinner luggage, which features four wheels that can spin 360 degrees, is easy to maneuver whether you're running to your airport gate or making your way through a new city. Bags with spinner wheels are generally quite easy to roll over various surfaces, making them a great option if you plan to walk for long periods of time with your luggage. Two-wheeled bags, however, may be less sturdy, but they'll give you a few more inches of extra space when packing. Bags with only two wheels also tend to be slightly lighter than their four-wheeled counterparts. Lastly, opting for a weekender or carry-on backpack means you can dash around as needed, and your bag will be more compact, but you will have to manage all the weight on your back or shoulders instead of rolling it.
Rules vary among airlines , but most allow carry-on luggage no larger than 24 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Some are slightly stricter, setting the limit at 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Keep this in mind when using your suitcase's expander, as the additional couple of inches could put you over the size limit. When in doubt, check the airline's website.
Some airlines have a carry-on weight limit of roughly 35 pounds. However, this is often not strictly enforced, and many domestic airlines don't have a limit at all. Bear in mind some international flights may restrict carry-ons over 22 pounds. Either way, make sure you are able to lift your bag on your own, otherwise, it's probably too heavy.
All liquids, including makeup, lotion, and other cosmetics, must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces in carry-on luggage. (For checked baggage, you can bring pretty much any size.) Powdered makeup, bar soap, and solid deodorant are usually allowed in larger containers. You'll also want to put all liquid beauty and personal hygiene products in a clear plastic bag before going through airport security. You can review the TSA's official liquids rules here .
AirTags are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. These trackers use such low energy Bluetooth that they're safe and TSA-compliant. For other GPS trackers, you should check with your individual airlines to make sure that your device is allowed, especially if they use a higher level of power.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
For this article, commerce writer Theresa Holland pored over in-house testing insights for dozens of bags, then cross-checked product descriptions and manuals to compile a comprehensive list of the best carry-on luggage currently on the market. Of the above brands, she owns carriers and on-the-go accessories from Away, Tumi, Paravel, Amazon Basics, Monos, and July.
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The Best Travel Backpack
A travel backpack easily carries all your stuff while letting you navigate airports, subway stations, and city streets. After traveling with travel backpacks for years across dozens of countries, we recommend the new versions of Osprey’s Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 travel packs.
These bags fit everything we need for trips ranging from just a week to months of continuous travel. They come with a sizable daypack and are even airline-carry-on friendly.
They’re also highly adjustable and well padded, meaning that not only can you get a perfect fit, but the packs will also remain easy to carry and comfortable to wear for long treks, even if there are stairs, cobblestones, or narrow alleys in your way.
Everything we recommend
Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack
The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.
Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.
Buying Options
Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack
The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.
Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.
REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Men’s)
Larger, for people with longer torsos.
Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this pack just as comfortable and easy to fit as any other we tried for people with longer torsos. However, it’s too big to carry on a plane.
May be out of stock
REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Women’s)
Larger, for people with shorter torsos.
Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this pack just as comfortable and easy to fit as any other we tried for people with shorter torsos. However, it’s too big to carry on a plane.
Upgrade pick
Salkan The Backpacker
More stylish, with more padding.
This attractive but expensive travel backpack has customizable straps and great, cushy padding. It comes in only one size, however.
I traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time. In 2023, Osprey released new incarnations of the Farpoint 55 and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 .
These new versions mostly kept what we liked about the previous ones and fixed what we didn’t. Best of all, they’re among the least expensive travel backpacks available. After several years as runner-ups, the packs are once again our top picks.
The front of the main pack still unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.
The best change: The main packs are now overhead-bin-sized for most airlines. (You’ll have to use the daypack as your underseat bag.) Other notable updates include height-adjustable shoulder straps and big exterior pockets on the daypack. Previous versions of these bags used ripstop nylon. The current one uses a heavy-duty recycled polyester, which held up well during a six-week trip across Europe.
Osprey offers a lifetime warranty.
If you want something a little larger than the Osprey packs, the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Men’s (for travelers with longer torsos) and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Women’s (for travelers with shorter torsos) are just as adjustable and comfortable. The Ruckpacks had been our top picks for several years—we now prefer the new Ospreys because they’re carry-on sized.
The Ruckpacks have a smaller daypack than the Ospreys, which isn’t as good for photographers and digital nomads, but the main packs are larger, which can be good if you’re carrying bulkier items like a heavy jacket. While not carry-on-sized, the main pack’s overall dimensions are still manageable. The Ruckpack 60+ is also a little cheaper than the Osprey packs.
The Ruckpacks are made from a tough, recycled ripstop nylon that stands up to wear. REI offers a return period of up to a year if you’re a member (90 days if you’re not). However, if the problem is a manufacturing or materials defect, the packs are covered by REI Co-op’s warranty, which has no specified expiration date.
The Salkan The Backpacker looks and feels like a higher-end travel backpack. The polyester cloth feels extremely rugged, and there’s extensive padding in every place the pack touches your body.
Available in black and lightish green, The Backpacker has nine color options for its exterior compression straps, so you can mix and match based on your preferences—or even change them up. This gives The Backpacker the most customizable palette of any of our picks.
While looking more stylish on TikTok and Instagram isn’t generally a primary consideration for us, overall The Backpacker feels well made, and it has many of the same thoughtful features as our top and runner-up picks, including lots of pockets, smooth zippers, and height-adjustable shoulder straps.
These are offset, however, by a much higher price. Also, the main pack is technically too large to be a carry-on for most airlines, and the bag comes in only one size. (Salkan says it’s best for people 5-foot-6 to 6-foot-4).
The research
Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: osprey farpoint 55 travel pack and fairview 55 travel pack, runner-up: rei co-op ruckpack 60+ recycled travel pack, upgrade pick: salkan the backpacker, the competition.
I’ve lived, worked, and visited 60 countries on six continents, as well as all 50 US states. I spent the majority of 2014 through 2020 traveling. Over the last few years, I’ve done a mix of extended road trips and multi-month international adventures. For all those years, I lived out of a backpack while abroad. I’ve also traveled in Africa, China, and throughout Europe with a variety of terrible backpacks and luggage, so I know what’s best to avoid.
In addition to covering travel gear here at Wirecutter, I write about travel and tech for CNET , Forbes , and The New York Times itself, and I have my own YouTube channel . My first travel book, Budget Travel for Dummies , comes out in January.
A travel backpack is for people who want to travel around the world unencumbered by heavy, slow-moving wheeled luggage. An internal-frame backpack in the 50- to 65-liter range has more than enough room for all of the possessions you need to travel anywhere for an indefinite amount of time—as long as you’re okay with doing laundry once you get to a destination. (If you’re going to carry heavy jackets, going-out clothes, multiple pairs of footwear, or other bulky gear, you may want something a tad bigger .)
A travel backpack is not for business travelers who’d like to maintain appearances, nor is it for outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend six weeks hiking in Patagonia. If you prefer something that rolls, check out our guide to the best carry-on luggage . And if you want something that you can carry on your back for shorter periods of time, that’s business-casual-friendly, and that you won’t ever need to check, see our review of the best carry-on travel bags .
Based on my experience and research, we looked for travel backpacks with the following qualities:
- Fifty to 65 liters, including a daypack: We looked at bags between 50 and 65 liters (including an integral, removable daypack). Packs this size can easily hold everything you need for any length of trip, while being small enough to remain manageable while you’re wearing it.
- Clamshell opening: For extended travel use, backpacking backpacks have annoying qualities, including that they tend to load only from the top and are sealed with a drawstring. This design saves weight and means there’s one less thing to break. But it’s a total hassle when you want something from the bottom of the bag because you have to unload and reload the entire pack. We looked for bags where the front zips fully open like a suitcase, making it easy to pack or repack and find things during your trip.
- A well-framed structure: A fully loaded backpack, even a small one, can easily weigh more than 20 pounds. My old Farpoint 55 usually hovered in the mid-30s, though that included a DSLR, three lenses, a battery pack , a laptop, a 360 camera , and other work-related gear. A fully supported internal-frame pack distributes the weight onto your hips, which are much stronger than your back and shoulders. If you’re going to be doing a significant amount of walking, you’ll want something with a frame.
- Durability: We looked for features to help the pack last, like some sort of cover to contain the straps (for easier storage on planes and trains), as well as lightweight and water-resistant materials.
- Plenty of storage (and separation): I’ve done all of my traveling in the past five years with a 55-liter backpack (which includes a 15-liter daypack). I tend to overpack a bit, but 55 liters lets me carry everything I need (the full list is below) for weeks, or even months, at a time.
Here’s what I usually bring for any length of trip (and this is our standard kit for testing):
- main pack (the command module , if you will)
- daypack (the lunar excursion module )
- pair of walking shoes or sneakers (along with the shoes I’m wearing)
- five shirts, one pair of shorts, one pair of jeans (not shown because I wear them in transit), one merino wool underlayer
- warm hat (because my head lacks insulation)
- five pairs of underwear, five pairs of socks, one extra T-shirt for laundry day, one bathing suit (I really recommend packing cubes )
- rain jacket in an Eagle Creek bag
- various adapters , camera batteries, chargers, etc.
- various toiletries, vitamins, etc.
- Osprey rain cover
- razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
- well-worn flip-flops
- travel towel
- portable Bluetooth speaker
- prescription dive mask
- merino wool jacket
- inflatable pillow
- smartwool half-zip midlayer
- sun hat (because my head hates sun)
- extra travel adapter for daypack (when the daypack is my carry-on)
- pen (vital!)
- a small laptop (a 15-inch MacBook fits in all of our picks)
- GoPro batteries and filters
- earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones
- Writer Emergency Pack
- USB battery pack #1
- USB battery pack #2
- backup headphones
- iPod Classic (because you can’t always stream music)
- USB charger
- Sigma 30 mm f1.4 (with a wireless mouse to its right)
For our first version of this guide in 2016, we narrowed our choices to 11 possible contenders. For that initial round of testing, I poked and prodded the different packs to sort out whether they had any obvious flaws or issues. I had adults of various sizes try each pack to get a sense of what short and tall people preferred.
For each subsequent update, including this one, I tested with similar methods whatever new or substantially redesigned packs were available. In between updates, I took one of our picks on some extended travels.
The Osprey Fairview 55 and the nearly identical Osprey Farpoint 55 have been one of our picks since the first version of this guide came out in 2016. (The Fairview is for people with 15- to 19-inch torsos, as measured from the top of your hip bone to your C7 vertebra, the one that sticks out when you press your chin to your chest. The Farpoint is for those with torsos from 17 to 22 inches long.) They’re now our top picks again, and here’s why.
You can carry them on the plane. Once you detach the daypacks, the main packs are now carry-on-sized, making them the most versatile travel backpack we’ve tested. Interestingly, the total capacity remains roughly the same as those of our other picks—that is, we were able to stow the same amount of clothing in this bag as we could in the REI Co-op packs and the Salkan . The daypack, in this case, would count as your personal item—on most airlines, this would mean you couldn’t also bring a large purse or a briefcase.
Or check your bag—your choice. The shoulder straps can be secured behind a zippered panel, so if you want to check the bag or put it in a packed luggage compartment on a train or bus, they won’t catch on anything. Doing this essentially turns the main pack temporarily into a duffle bag, complete with sturdy and well-padded handles on the top and side.
They’re adjustable. Like our other picks, the main pack has height-adjustable shoulder straps. This crucial feature lets you get an all-important personalized fit that makes carrying the pack for any length of time far easier. The straps were padded enough for our testers’ comfort (though not as cushy as the Salkan’s, and slightly less so than the REI Co-op’s).
They have comfortable, easy-to-use daypacks. The daypacks are roughly the same size, or a little larger, than those of our other picks, something travelers who plan to cart lots of camera gear or other daily essentials will appreciate. The top of the shoulder straps connect to form a sturdy handle, which is extremely, ahem, handy. Each daypack easily holds a 15-inch MacBook and is comfortable to wear over long treks. There are two large exterior mesh pockets for water bottles . Though the daypack is a little short on organizational slots and pockets, its comfort made it the best overall.
The backpacks are tough. The Farpoint and the Fairview are made from 450-denier recycled polyester, which feels thick and sturdy, though more “plasticky” compared to the Salkan. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.) I put the Farpoint through six weeks of train, bus, and airplane trips across Europe, and it didn’t show any signs of wear or breaking.
You can attach a lock, if you want. Unlike the Salkan The Backpacker, both the main pack and the daypack’s main zippers are lockable.
The backpacks come in more color options than our other picks. Currently, the Farpoint comes in black, green, blue, and grey. The Fairview comes in black, green, red, and purple.
The packs include a lifetime warranty. Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers repair of any damage or defect for life—or replaces the pack, if repair is impossible. If you just want to return the pack unused, you have 30 days.
It’s been a pick in this guide for seven years—and counting. I have put my money where my mouth is, so to speak. After testing this 2023 pack, I liked it so much that I bought one for myself, replacing an Osprey Farpoint that had been my go-to pack for years of travel.
It comes in additional capacities. If you already have a daypack that you like, the Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 are just the main pack from the 55 (they’re also picks in our guide to carry-on travel backpacks ). You can add the daypack later if you want. If you want more space and don’t mind checking your luggage, the Osprey Farpoint 70 and the Osprey Fairview 70 are slightly larger versions of their Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 counterparts—anything we’ve said about the Farpoint 55 and the Fairview 55 also applies to them. They would work well for those who want to go with the Osprey but need more room in the main pack for, say, clothes for multiple climates, bulky items like ski parkas, and the like.
Flaws but not dealbreakers
- The U-shaped opening of the daypack is surprisingly small, restricting access. You can’t easily spot things at the bottom or carry bulky items. On the other hand, this does limit what might spill out of the pack if you forget to fully close it, something that has happened to me several times with the old half-clamshell design.
- Previous versions of the Farpoint and the Fairview had large zippers that basically fused the daypack to the main pack. With this version, the daypack hangs off the back, secured only by the nylon compression straps. The straps loop through reinforced parts of the daypack, so it seems reasonably secure, and this new design does let you stuff more things in both packs—but as someone who carries a lot of expensive gear in the daypack, I’m less than excited about it.
- The pack isn’t as comfortable as the heavily padded Salkan. Osprey seems to have prioritized weight and breathability over padding. In warmer climates, though, this could be a good thing.
- Unlike our other picks, the Farpoint and the Fairview don’t include a rain cover. One is available separately, however. Osprey recommends the large size for the 55 L packs.
- The new design is slightly smaller than the old one, as well as being a little smaller than the REI Co-op and Salkan packs.
- Lastly, while looks are entirely subjective, the Farpoint and the Fairview are very much “backpack-looking backpacks.” The dark color choices are safe, to put it mildly.
The REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Men’s and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack - Women’s were previously our top picks, until they were replaced this year by the improved Osprey packs.
It’s easy to get just the right fit. The Ruckpack has well-padded and height-adjustable straps, closer in size and padding to those of the Salkan than those of the Osprey . Like the Osprey but unlike the Salkan, the Ruckpack comes in two models, one marketed toward men and the other toward women. The men’s model, available in black or blue, is for people with torsos between 17 and 21 inches. The women’s model, available in black or reddish orange, fits torsos between 15 and 19 inches.
It’s sturdy. The Ruckpack uses a recycled, 210-denier ripstop nylon. It feels similarly sturdy as the Osprey, though not as sturdy as the Salkan. Previous versions of the Ruckpack have held up well over time, and we’ll continue testing to see how the 2023 version wears.
It’s bigger than the Osprey, although the daypack is smaller. Capacity wise, there’s a bit more room in the Ruckpack’s main pack than in the slightly smaller Osprey’s. The daypack, however, is a little smaller. Which backpack works better depends on what gear you carry and how you want to carry it. If you have a lot of things you want on your person at all times, the Osprey is better. If you have more or bulkier clothes, and no camera or less-bulky daypack gear, the REI might be better.
It has more pockets than our top pick. These pockets are on the inside (three are accessible via external zippers) and the outside (on the hip belt, for instance). This is especially convenient if you want to quickly stash items or get to them without having to open the main compartment. And, unlike the Osprey packs, the Ruckpack includes a rain cover.
You will have to check it. The Ruckpack’s dimensions make it too large to qualify as a carry-on, even if you detach the daypack from the main pack. The main pack’s straps can be stored behind a zippered panel when you check your bag.
The main pack’s zippers are easily lockable. However, the daypack’s zippers don’t have the standard holes for easy locking. Instead, you have to thread the lock through the holes in the pull tabs. This isn’t a huge deal, but it’s an odd oversight.
REI has a good return policy. REI has a one-year “ 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed ” return policy if you’re a member (90 days if you’re not). This is not quite as epic as Osprey’s lifetime guarantee, but you should have enough time to determine whether or not you like the pack. However, if the issue is a manufacturing defect, you should be able to return it any time.
The Salkan The Backpacker is a higher-end travel backpack for people who want the comfort of our top pick but are willing to pay more for swappable design options and more organization.
It has more organization than our top pick. The capacity of the main pack is 45 liters, basically the same as that of our main picks . It has more organization and compartments than the Osprey packs, however. There are two large water-bottle compartments on either side and a laptop compartment inside, as well as several other small, zippered compartments. In addition to the main zippered hatch, the top opens with a drawstring like a hiking backpack, allowing fast access or storage. This drawstring design does allow you to stuff a bit more into the pack than the Osprey or REI Co-op packs. However, the main pack is technically too tall to be a carry-on for most airlines.
It has the best padding. The shoulder straps are well padded—the best I’ve seen—and height adjustable. The back panel and hip straps are generously padded, too. All this does make the pack nearly twice as heavy as the Osprey, though we’re talking only a few pounds (under 8 pounds compared with the Farpoint’s 4-plus pounds). For reference, the Farpoint, fully loaded with all my clothes, heavy camera gear, and so on, was around 35 pounds, including the bag itself.
You can customize it. The pack is available in two main colors: black and light green. In addition, the straps have complementary color options, including orange (shown above), pink, and maroon, plus five other choices. This allows for more personalization and flair compared to the Osprey and REI Co-op packs. Salkan also sells several accessories to go with The Backpacker, such as packing cubes, water bottles, and a laundry bag that attaches to the inside of the main pack.
It’s sturdy—but has not-so-great attachments. The bag’s 900-denier polyester fabric (even stronger than our top pick’s 450-denier fabric) is extremely strong and should resist rips or tears. What zippers The Backpacker has run smoothly, but the design oddly eschews them in key places. While the main compartment has a zipper, as do multiple smaller compartments, the main and daypack’s top openings do not, using drawstrings and a flap instead. These flaps are secured with aluminum “G”-shaped hooks (Salkan calls them buckles) that slide into nylon straps. The hooks feel nice in your hand and could well last longer than the plastic clips on the Osprey and REI Co-op packs. However, connecting them takes a few moments longer than using a clip or zipper would—time that adds up. They also feel less secure, like they could slide loose under load and movement. (These hooks are also what connect the daypack to the main pack.)
It has a great warranty. Salkan has a “ ‘No Landfill’ Lifetime Guarantee ”: “If there is something wrong with your backpack that shouldn’t be, then we’ll try to repair it, and if we can’t, we’ll replace it.” In addition, the company has a 100-day trial period within which you can return or exchange the pack if you don’t like it.
But it’s pricey. The Backpack costs much more than the Osprey or REI Co-op packs. While it’s arguably better-looking than either, this doesn’t add much functional difference. The pack’s comfortable, but so are the others. It’s adjustable, but so are the others. It comes with a rain cover, but so does the REI Co-op pack, and Osprey’s is $40. Is the Salkan’s extra cost and organization worth the better aesthetics? That’s not for me to say.
And we couldn’t attach a lock. There’s no way to lock either the main pack or the daypack. There’s no way to attach a lock to the “G” hooks. The nylon drawstrings at the main pack’s top opening, as well as the daypack’s, offer no practical way of attaching a lock. For such a well-designed and feature-rich pack, this is a surprising oversight. Is this a dealbreaker? Probably not, at least for most people. With the daypack buckled and the drawstring closed, it’s highly unlikely someone could reach in while you’re wearing it without you noticing. However, I frequently leave my pack in luggage rooms at hotels or the occasional hostel without lockers, and not being able to lock it when it’s out of sight would concern me.
This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide—just what’s still available.
During our research, we checked out a number of companies that make great packs, but none of those packs met all of our criteria. In most cases this was because the company specialized in top-loading bags, bags with wheels, bags that were too big, or very large bags that didn’t include daypacks. These companies included Black Diamond, Berghaus, Dakine, Eagle Creek, eBags, EMS, Ferrino, Gregory, High Sierra, Kathmandu, Kelty, Minaal, MEI, The North Face, Ortovox, Outdoor Research, Patagonia, Rick Steves, Thule, Timbuk2, and Victorinox.
The Deuter Aviant Access Pro has many of the features we liked, but its daypack is too small. The pack’s also more expensive than our top picks.
The men’s and women’s Thule Landmark 60L are well-made, sturdy packs, with a wide main-pack opening and most of the same features that we like in the other packs. They’re more expensive, though, and the daypacks aren’t as comfortable.
The Tropicfeel Shelter Backpack is a highly customizable pack to which you can add “modules” that expand capacity or change its use. It’s a cool idea, and the pack seems well designed, but it’s extremely expensive and doesn’t really add that much practical use over our main picks.
This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.
Meet your guide
Geoffrey Morrison
Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .
Further reading
The Best Camera for Your Dream Vacation Isn’t a Smartphone
by Ben Keough
Packing for the vacation of a lifetime? Don’t forget to put a good camera in your bag. We have picks for travelers (and vacations) of all kinds.
The Best Tripod
by Erin Roberts, Arriana Vasquez, and Phil Ryan
If you want to shoot sharp photos while using a slow shutter speed, we think the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB100 tripod is the best choice.
The Best Portable Bluetooth Speaker
by Brent Butterworth
The UE Wonderboom 3 is the all-around best portable Bluetooth speaker because it sounds good and looks cool, and it’s the most rugged model we’ve tested.
Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls
by Truth Headlam
Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.
15 Best Carry-On Backpacks For One Bag Travel
Wanting to try one bag travel and in the market for a new carry-on backpack? We’ve personally battle-tested each bag on this list to bring you the best carry-on backpacks of 2024.
Maybe you’re a one bag travel veteran, and you’re readily aware of just how critical it is to find the best carry-on backpack. Or perhaps you’re about to embark on your first trip, and you’re determined to travel the world with carry-on backpacks only to relieve some of the nerves.
Whatever the case, sifting through the mountain of options is, well…daunting. Of course, many travel backpack brands tout themselves as the be all end all. Which means that you’ve got more choices than toppings on a build-your-own pizza menu.
Except some people put pineapples on their pizza. And, in the same vein, not every carry-on is going to be the best carry-on bag for you.
Do you want a top-loader or do you prefer a front-opening bag? How do you feel about zippers or velcro? Snap or drawstring closure? What size backpack are you looking for? Just how durable does this carry-on backpack really need to be?
From modular to minimalist, I’ve compiled the best carry-on backpacks on the market today. I’ve also put together a section on specific features and details to pay extra close attention to when you’re making your final decision.
These are my top picks of the best carry-on backpacks for every scenario.
Why You Should Trust Us
Every member of the TravelFreak team is an avid traveler and adventurer. We have a soft spot in our hearts for a great backpack. Most of us have lived out of a backpack at one time or another, whether doing one-bag travel around the globe or long-distance thru-hiking.
Needless to say, a fair number of packs have gone through our hands over the years. Over the past two decades, we’ve tested well over 100 travel packs and learned a lot about what makes a good carry-on backpack.
We know how hard it is to find the perfect pack, and we want to make the process easier for you. So we got our team of gear junkies and former product engineers together to develop the most comprehensive backpack test methodology and rating system possible.
We tested the majority of backpacks on this list hands-on during our own travels. These include the Tortuga Travel Backpack, Peak Design Travel Backpack, Cotopaxi Allpa, Aer Travel Pack 3, Nomatic Travel Bag, Topo Designs Global Travel Backpack, and Osprey Farpoint. The remaining packs were chosen based on extensive research of existing reviews, specs, features, and design.
- Best Carry-On Backpack Overall: Tortuga Travel Backpack
- Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel: Peak Design Travel Bag
- Best Carry-On Backpack for Women: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
- Most Versatile Carry-On Backpack: Aer Travel Pack 3
- Best Rolling Carry-On Backpack with Wheels: Osprey Sojourn
- Best Minimalist Carry-On Backpack: Minaal Carry-On 2.0
- Best Carry-On Laptop Backpack: Nomatic Travel Bag
- Best Small Carry-On Backpack: Topo Designs Travel Bag
- Best Carry-On Hiking Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 40L / Osprey Fairview 40L
- Best Anti-Theft Carry-On Backpack: Pacsafe Venturesafe X40
- Best Expandable Carry-On Backpack: Tropicfeel SHELL Backpack
- Most Comfortable Carry-On Backpack: Able Carry Max Backpack
- Best Modular Carry-On Backpack: Mission Workshop Radian
- Best Carry-On Duffel Backpack: Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack Duffel
- Best Budget Carry-On Backpack: eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack
Tortuga Travel Backpack : Best Carry-On Backpack Overall
For dashing from country to country and city to city like the traveling pro you are, no bag can match space efficiency, durability, or style that the 40L Tortuga Travel Backpack brings to the table. There’s a reason it tops our list of the best carry-on backpacks.
The front-loader main compartment makes the Tortuga Travel Backpack open just like a suitcase, and it has plenty of open space for all the clothes you could possibly need for a successful one-bag adventure. But you organizers out there needn’t worry; there are ample pockets in this travel pack as well.
Gear such as laptops and tablets will find dedicated sleeves, while anything and everything from underwear to toothbrushes can find a home in one of the many accessory pockets. Plus, the nearly indestructible sailcloth exterior will stand up to all the rigors of international travel.
But what the sailcloth boasts in durability it lacks in rigidity. So all the space and compartments available to you can be a bit bulgy, especially if you’re an over-packer. This may lead to an awkward sizing situation as you’re trying to board your flight with a large bulging bag as a carry-on. And be warned, that if you’re a superb over-packer, the bag may not fit in the carry-on sizing box at all!
Keep an eye on size, and utilize the padded shoulder straps and removable belt to distribute the extra heft this bag has.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack isn’t overly complicated. It has just the right features to keep you organized, and the comfort and durability make this travel pack really stand out from the crowd of carry-on backpacks.
Click here for my full Tortuga Outbreaker review.
- Pros & Cons
- Technical Specs
- Incredibly durable sailcloth material
- Practically identical bag available in 35L and 45L
- Intuitively organized pockets and sleeves
- Plenty of open space for clothing storage
- Can easily expand beyond official carry-on size restrictions with a lot of gear stuffing
- A little on the heavy side
Peak Design Travel Bag : Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel
If you’re an organized traveler, the Peak Design Travel Bag is just what you need. Peak Design has been in the pack industry for years, and it places a special emphasis on photography-compatible travel bags. So their products are ideal for those who plan on carrying camera gear. But don’t turn away if you’re not an avid photo taker.
The Peak Design Travel Backpack has pockets and sleeves galore in the 35 liters (expandable up to 45 liters). The laptop sleeve, hidden passport/document pocket, multiple mesh pockets, and dividers all work together to make sure that every single piece of your travel gear is securely stowed. The side-access pockets and full-panel opening also ensure that all this gear is accessible, while the impressive weatherproof zippers and nylon keep everything dry.
The cons? Over-compartmentalization in the Peak Design Travel Backpack can sometimes limit the amount of travel gear you can bring if you’re continually trying to shoehorn items into dividers and pockets.
Still, while the Peak Design Travel Backpack is a little boxy, this backpack will hold its shape and sit upright even when empty, which can be a pro or con depending on your travel style. Speaking of style, this bag can be an ideal companion for one bag travel to cities, countrysides, or even safaris where camera users can really see the compartmentalization design shine.
While I wouldn’t recommend it for extreme hiking, The Peak Design Travel Backpack is the best option for international travel.
Read my full Peak Design Travel Backpack review here .
- Impressive pocket and organizing system
- Side access and full front panel opening
- Collapsible design
- Weatherproof
- Comfortable and stash-able shoulder and hip belts
- Well-padded laptop sleeve keeps your device safe
- Bag style is capsule-like and an acquired taste
- Over organizing may limit the amount of gear, as opposed to an open cavern bag design
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack : Best Carry-On Backpack for Women
For women looking for a comfortable and stylish carry-on travel backpack, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is hard to beat. This sturdy little bag will stand up to even the roughest treatment, and the interior is meticulously organized, making it easy to pack.
TPU-coated 1000 Denier Polyester is certainly nothing to sneer at. It will hold up to drips, drops, and drags with ease and, when the clouds come out, there’s a cover for the rain. While all this protection does add to the overall weight, you’ve got a practically bombproof bag.
Plus all the organization is top-notch. Once inside the suitcase-style zippered bag, you’ll find a main zippered mesh compartment for your larger items (clothes), as well as several smaller zippered mesh pockets on the opposite side for all your additional gear. (All external zippers feature security loops to hinder anyone who might try to open your bag and slip out any valuables.)
Notice all the zippers? If you’re in a hurry or simply don’t like zipper-ing constantly, then this can be a hindrance. The intuitive organization, however, overshadows this handicap as there seems to be a custom spot for just about every piece of gear, including your laptop.
All in all, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a wonderfully stylish pack that can hold up to city or outdoor travel without breaking a sweat. Check out my full Cotopaxi Allpa review here.
- Heavy-duty TPU coated polyester
- Theft-proof webbing across all openings
- Very durable
- Wonderfully organized—practically packs itself
- Heavy for its size
- Hip belt seems to be an afterthought and is minimally useful
Aer Travel Pack 3 : Most Versatile Carry-On Backpack
Gentlemen, your top choice of travel backpack may very well be the Aer Travel Pack 3 . Stylishly designed, intuitively organized and thoughtfully furnished, you’ll find a spot for just about everything you need for a successful trip in the Aer Travel Pack 3. Aer already proved their bag design prowess in the original travel pack, and have truly outdone themselves to bring you this third-generation gem.
Aer has done some fantastic upgrades with the Aer Travel Pack 3. It’s slightly bigger at 35 liters (as opposed to 33 liters), and it fits a 16” inch laptop (as opposed to a 13” laptop). But it also has new load lifters for your comfort and to balance the weight on your back, and an improved compressed design so you can better access the main compartment while on the go.
All this organization comes wrapped in the tried and true Cordura material that will withstand travel to every corner of the planet. Aer has, however, presented this durability in a sleek envelope that, while perhaps a little boxy for some tastes, will feel right at home in the urban landscape.
Another thing I love is the unique hidden smart tracker pocket where you can stash an Airtag or Tile device to help locate your bag if it goes missing. If you travel with a lot of photography or computer gear like me, this gives some added peace of mind.
The only thing missing is the shoe compartment, which Aer removed to make this bag more compressed. The plus side is that you get an extra 2 liters of space if you really want to pack them!
Take note here: This is just for urban travel and not designed to hit trails or mountain tops. Please also note that, at 35 liters, it’s a little on the small side compared to other backpacks on this list, so you’ll have to pack very meticulously.
It is nevertheless a powerful performer and perhaps the best travel backpack you’ll ever own! For more information, check out our full Aer Travel Pack review .
- Fantastic organization
- Sleek and stylish design
- Very organized interior
- Extremely durability
- Tons of pockets
- Capacity is smaller than other packs
- Exclusively designed for urban travel—not a suitable hiking bag
- Doesn’t have a dedicated shoe compartment
Osprey Sojourn : Best Rolling Carry-On Backpack with Wheels
For making that infinity walk from security to gate G523, there’s nothing better than having a pair of wheels. But when curbs, uneven pavement and tight maneuvering come into play, having a backpack is absolutely gold. Osprey has figured out how to have both: the Sojourn rolling backpack .
When you’re rolling, you’ll have Osprey’s highroad chassis. This means big wheels for a smoother ride and improved clearance, a fiberglass base to trim some weight, and a telescopic handle. All these features work together to make a very stable platform to take all that weight off your shoulders.
But when circumstances demand some shoulder toting, you’ll find Osprey’s backpacking prowess shine with the harness and hip belt system. Taking cues from their famous anti-gravity system, you have a breathable and comfortable mesh backing that partners perfectly with the mesh hip belt to distribute all the extra weight. All of this stashes behind a fabric cover when you decide to roll.
The full-front opening allows you to pack this bag just like a suitcase, and the plethora of internal pockets make organization simple. I’m particularly fond of the compression straps to help keep all your gear tight and organized while transitioning from backpack to suitcase mode.
While this bag is significantly heavier than your average backpack, the rollers should be taking this weight the vast majority of the time. But when the harness is needed, I’m very impressed by its support and comfort for such a bulky load.
I therefore believe that the Sojourn is clearly the best travel backpack for carry-on that also doubles as a roller suitcase. My one wish is that it included a dedicated laptop compartment, but the Sojourn still shines in other departments!
- Roller suitcase and Backpack
- Osprey's superb warranty
- Osprey's superb harness system
- Internal straps for compression
- No spinner wheels
Minaal Carry-On 2.0 : Best Minimalist Carry-On Backpack
Not everyone needs more gadgets, straps and gear than 007 on a weekend trip — and sometimes simpler is better. That’s certainly the mentality that Minaal adopted for their Carry On 2.0, and they’ve certainly hit the nail on the head.
One word to describe the outside of the Minaal Carry-On 2.0 : Slick. No overt bulging pockets and no unnecessary straps whipping to and fro. Just clean and uncluttered durable nylon that looks great and keeps your gear safe.
That can be a huge benefit for traveling in Europe when you don’t want to have a giant flashy backpack that’s essentially a big neon sign saying, “I’m a tourist!”
You do, however, have two small easy-access pockets on the top of this Minaal bag, both of which, along with the main compartment, boast durable and weatherproof YKK zippers.
The clean and uncluttered approach continues inside the main clamshell opening where you have completely open space to play within one half, and two large mesh pockets for organization in the other half, and that’s all. The secondary, organizer section contains several smaller mesh pockets that are perfect storing important items such as phones, passports, etc.
Speaking of secure, Minaal’s suspension system keeps your devices loaded into sleeves and secured with velcro in the middle of your back. This system both prevents them from impacting the ground if you drop your bag and keeps the weight perfectly distributed.
For added security, you can also extend a zippered cover to secure the harness straps. But this cover must be very carefully stowed in order to avoid an annoying bump on your shoulders.
So for an uncluttered, but no less functional, approach to one-bag travel, I urge you to seriously consider the Carry-On 2.0. No extra frills to boost weight and price, and every feature included is top-quality and indispensable to a seamless trip!
- Minimal exterior baubles and straps
- Secure laptop suspension system
- Clean and slick design
- Detachable hip belt
- Included rain cover
- Harness cover needs to be meticulously packed to avoid uncomfortable pressure on your back
Nomatic Travel Bag : Best Carry-On Laptop Backpack
Digital nomad on the road? The Nomatic Travel Bag is designed with you in mind. From laptop, tablet and electronics pockets aplenty to a sleek and durable exterior, this is the perfect bag to take your career on the road.
Let’s start with the obvious: electronics space. The padded laptop sleeve can accommodate any computer up to 15 inches, and there’s an adjacent smaller sleeve for your tablet. The bag also features a dedicated compartment full of pockets for other electronics.
The dark side to storing all your electronics in one bag is, of course, the danger of leaking fluids or petty thievery. But Nomatic tackles this. For any water bottles, toothpastes, sun screen etc., Nomatic has provided a slick waterproof internal pocket.
As for security, the zippers to the main and laptop compartment are partially hidden to prevent easy access to your valuables. On top of that, these features are wrapped up in in a very sturdy duraflex tarpaulin material that is hardwearing and weather resistant.
However, the primary back panel is, for a reason unbeknownst to me, a different material that can allow some water to seep in. This is a distinct negative that can compromise your bag’s weatherproofing, so be aware before laying your bag down on a wet surface.
If you want to learn more about this bag, read the full Nomatic Backpack Travel Bag Review!
- Packable laundry bag RFID blocking pocket
- Dedicated shoe compartment
- Internal waterproof pocket
- Very space efficient
- Boxy shape can be an acquired taste
- Back panel utilizes material that is not weather proof
Topo Designs Travel Bag : Best Small Carry-On Backpack
For you ounce-counter travelers out there, this Travel Bag from Topo Designs may be just what you need in the best carry on backpack for one bag travel that won’t break your back. The Topo Designs Travel Bag has massive amounts of storage, organizational pockets, nicely padded shoulder straps, all armored in durable and water repellent nylon clocks in at only 3.65 pounds.
The full-front opening reveals a spacious main compartment where you can easily stash all the clothes you need for an extended stint abroad. But additional mesh pockets and a dedicated organization compartment are both ideals for storing everything from toiletries to socks.
Have more delicate or valuable items such as computers or laptops? The dedicated laptop pocket can fit up to a 15″ computer, and the security pockets are great for passports and other important documents. Even more on the security front are the heavy duty YKK zippers plus security loop that can easily be locked up for your travel days.
Again, however, the con is that over-compartmentalization can complicate packing.
- Excellent water repellent finish
- Lightweight for such a large bag
- Duffle strap for versatile carrying
- Load lifter straps
- Some color options are a little overt
Osprey Farpoint 40L / Osprey Fairview 40L : Best Carry-On Hiking Backpack
For hikers, the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview is absolutely the best carry-on bag. Osprey sets the gold-standard when it comes to hiking backpacks , and their Farpoint bag is a prime example of it.
First things first: The Farpoint is the men’s version of this bag and the Fairview is the women’s version. However, depending on your body type, you may find the gender delineation to be relatively meaningless.
Secondly, the Osprey Farpoint is outlandishly comfortable. Carrying this bag doesn’t feel like you’re hefting a bulky box on your back, as Osprey’s finely tuned mesh hip and shoulder straps work in tandem with a low-profile frame to distribute the weight as evenly as possible. This makes it perfect for every situation from boldly striding through the airport, to strolling through a new city, all the way to discovering unforgettable mountain or jungle views while out for a hike.
Osprey’s incredibly comfortable mesh shoulder and hip belt make toting this bag over pavement or dusty trails simple, and the hip belt even has its own stash pocket when needed. The bag material itself is also designed for durability and its ripstop nylon should hold up to everything from airport jostling to rocky adventures, and still look good for your occasional city visits.
The Osprey Farpoint’s proclivity for excellence continues with regards to space and organization. The full-front panel access makes stashing all your travel gear a breeze. You’ll even find a dedicated sleeve for your laptop and tablet amongst all the pockets, as well as a stash pocket on the stowable hip belt.
And if 40L isn’t enough, their 55L version comes with a 15L detachable daypack for additional space.
For more info, check out my full Osprey Farpoint review and Osprey Fairview review .
- Osprey's lifetime warranty
- Rugged and comfortable design for hiking
- Stylish enough for the trail or city travel
- Much fewer internal pockets than competitors—you may want to use packing cubes to stay organized
Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 : Best Anti-Theft Carry-On Backpack
Pacsafe got started in 1998 by a pair of globetrotters who had had a fair few brushes with danger along the road. There’s nothing that ruins a trip more than getting robbed.
Pacsafe knows that people enjoy their adventures more if they feel secure. Their whole brand is built around the idea that, with their travel backpacks, global travel becomes a little bit safer.
The Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 is LOADED with features, particularly on the security front. To be honest, this travel pack is almost overkill! I’ve been to some hairy places around the world and the only time I ever experienced danger was one block from my friend’s house in a gentrified suburb in Australia.
But, if you like to play it safe, that’s fair enough. The Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 might be the best anti-theft backpack for you.
Its built-in steel wire mesh panels prevent thieves from slashing your bag. The interlocking zip sliders are also puncture-resistant, and the anti-theft anchor lock and cable allows you to lock down your zippers and straps to a secure fixture. There are two additional zippered mesh pockets, a key/wallet clip, and extra pouches in the front compartment.
On top of that, it’s comfy! This travel pack comes with padded, adjustable straps, and a sturdy waist belt and sternum strap. The external side compression straps and stowable straps keep this bag sleek and tidy.
- Super secure
- Good organization, especially in the front pocket
- Flap cover to disguise locking system
- Protective laptop sleeve
- compression straps to keep everything snug
- The outer zip pocket needs to open wider — it’s hard to access everything
Tropicfeel SHELL Backpack : Best Expandable Carry-On Backpack
Every now and then a new travel backpack catches my eye simply for its unique and innovative design. The Tropicfeel SHELL Backpack is definitely that bag.
The innovative 3-in-1 adaptable design converts the bag into three different sizes: 22L (Daily), 30L (Weekend), and 40L (Adventure). If you’re looking for one simple bag that does it all, you’ll appreciate this one. The Tropicfeel team wanted to combine the ergonomics of a large hiking pack with the portability and lightness of an everyday backpack. I’d say they succeeded.
The bag also has a clamshell opening that folds open like a suitcase, and inside you’ll find its unique inbuilt wardrobe system. You can store your belongings in different compartments of the wardrobe system, and then simply hang the bag in your hotel closet or on your bed. Voila, everything is within easy reach.
And other than all those fun highlights, you’ll find that the Tropicfeel SHELL Backpack still has all the features that come standard with a great pack, including weatherproof material, an adjustable sternum strap, a hip belt, and a straps holder to help tuck away stray straps.
- Expandable to three different sizes
- Unique wardrobe system to keep items separated
- Adjustable sternum straps and hip belt
- Lots of additional padding
- Comes with a hefty price tag
Able Carry Max Backpack : Most Comfortable Carry-On Backpack
The Able Carry Max Backpack is easily the most comfortable carry-on backpack on this list. Everything about this bag is designed with optimal comfort in mind, and it works really, really well. If you want a backpack that works perfectly as both a carry-on backpack and a nice companion to your on-foot explorations, this is it. You’ll be able to wear this for hours on end and never feel burdened.
Why? In addition to the usual features (like sternum straps and a lightweight design), the Max Backpack’s unique A-Frame is where this bag really shines. It has anchor straps and tapered panels to keep your gear tucked away and to prevent sagging at the bottom of the bag. The ultra-wide cushioned straps spread out across your shoulders, and the multi-layer foam back panels help to keep you supported while also offering lots of ventilation.
There’s tons of pockets and compartments to keep you well organized too, including a well-padded laptop sleeve for your devices up to 17”. There are four inner pockets and two on the outside, as well as an extremely well-hidden secret pocket.
You can also try out this backpack for 14 days. If you don’t like it, they’ll take it back no problem.
My only beef with this bag is that I don’t find the A-Frame particularly attractive. It’s a great carry-on bag and an everyday bag, but I don’t know if I’d take it with me on a work trip or a more formal outing.
- The unique A-Frame optimizes comfort
- Lots of pockets
- Laptop sleeve fits a device up to 17”
- Excellent 14-day return policy
- Limited colors
- The A-Frame isn’t particularly stylish
Mission Workshop Radian : Best Modular Carry-On Backpack
The Radian is a modular, adjustable and customizable powerhouse of a backpack that can be fine-tuned to fit just about any adventure you have in mind.
I am truly blown away by just how much you can adjust this bag to suit your own personal style. The roll top can be used with or without the velcro and with or without the Duraflex strap. Or just unzip the entire front panel and pack it like a suitcase—your style, your choice.
The harness system continues this trend by being incredibly plush, fully adjustable and allowing for a removable expedition waist-belt for serious adventuring. You additionally have the option to fold up and store the entire harness system behind a stretch back panel, which is absolutely perfect for a smaller, snag-free bag to throw in the overhead bins.
The inside of this backpack is a straightforward cavern, with minimal additional pockets, though you do have a few organizational pockets on the underside of the main zippered flap and a massive laptop sleeve that can fit larger, 17″ computers. You can also purchase Arkiv accessories: separate pockets, folios and sleeves that can be attached to any of the four exterior points.
All these features are wrapped up in an ultra-durable Cordura or HT500 Textile that can handle the traveling punches and are weatherproof to boot. Easily making this beast—literally, this thing is almost five pounds — a modular lover’s best travel backpack for carry-on.
- Rolltop backpack
- 4 exterior attachment points for Mission Workshop's Arkiv accessories
- Entire harness system can be zipped up and stored for easy loading in airplane bins
- Very adjustable and comfortable harness system Large laptop compartment
- Wider than most bags on the list
Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack Duffel : Best Carry-On Duffel Backpack
There comes a time in nearly every traveler’s life when shoulder straps seem to snag on everything in sight. Duffels tend to hold the upper hand in this case, and the Timbuk2 Impulse beautifully bridges this gap.
Easily unclip the backpack straps, and stow them in a dedicated pocket. Although you don’t have a strap for your shoulder in duffel mode, the two beefy handles on the sides of the bag are sufficient.
The zippered 17″ laptop compartment is external, so you’ll never have to dig again. You also have a quick access pocket, perfect for everything from plane tickets to snacks, that also has another mesh pocket inside for even more.
The main, clamshell-open compartment reveals the bulk of those 55 liters. One side is left completely open for you to pack at will, while the opposite side features two mesh pockets for some slight organization. The many compression straps keep everything tight and compact. The Impulse also has a wonderfully isolated compartment at the base of the bag to keep smelly shoes or dirty clothes separate.
I must, however, point out one small nick in this bag’s armor. When in backpack mode, the straps can occasionally become unfastened from the bag when trying to pick it up.
Nevertheless, this occurs very rarely and is just a minor annoyance compared to all the awesome features packed in here.
Overall, this is a versatile carry-on backpack-duffel combo that’s great for any trip.
- Wide, fold-open main compartment
- Exterior laptop compartment for easier access
- Shoe storage compartment
- Tuckable straps
- No dedicated shoulder strap for duffel mode
- Shoulder harness straps in backpack mode have finicky attach point that sometimes comes undone
eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack : Best Budget Carry-On Backpack
While I certainly believe that making the investment for a premium backpack is well worth the initial heartache in the beginning, this is not always practical. Enter the Mother Lode from eBags.
The main compartment of this bag lives up to the “motherlode” name with a massive clamshell opening for all your bulky gear. A nifty fold-down divider can aid in organization, while the opposite side of the bag also offers mesh pockets for storage. Compression straps are also present in this portion of the bag to keep the bulk of your gear nice and secure.
A separate organization compartment features a massive 19″ laptop pocket that is suspended to keep your computer from impacting the ground in the case you drop it. The additional pockets here are also a nice complement to the exterior zippered pockets.
The best part? You can convert this backpack to duffle or to a briefcase, too, for the ultimate one bag travel experience. Simply stow the shoulder straps into a dedicated pocket, or attach the removable shoulder harness for duffle mode.
While we’re on the exterior of this bag, it’s worth mentioning that the 900D polyester does feel a little thin and flimsy to the touch ,which may compromise its overall durability. (Notice that most of our bags are well over 1000D in material thickness.)
All and all, however, this is an excellent wallet friendly option with ample storage space, well-thought-out organization, and all the adjustability we need for reliable one bag travel. The TLS Motherlode Weekender therefore easily earns its title of best carry-on backpack for budget travels.
- Budget friendly
- Fold down shelf in main compartment for additional compartmentalization
- Very large, suspended, laptop compartment accommodating up to 19" computer
- Convertible between backpack, duffel bag, and briefcase
- Material is a little thin and frail feeling
What is a Carry-On Backpack?
A carry-on travel backpack is a bag that you choose to bring onto the plane with you to stuff into an overhead bin or below the seat in front of you.
Now I know exactly what image comes to your mind when we talk about carry-on backpacks. The small, out-for-a-day backpack that can hardly fit enough gear to get you through one night on the road. That’s not what we’re discussing here.
We’re talking about serious travel backpacks that can fit everything you need for your entire long-term trip in one place—and still meet airline carry-on restrictions that, airline depending, generally limit you to about 40 liters.
Typically, carry-on travel backpacks are 30 to 45 liters. Anything smaller is a regular backpack; anything larger you will likely have to check.
Alternatively, if you want to bring a daypack, too, you can wear the bag on your back and your personal item (your daypack) on your front. Most airlines will allow for one carry-on and one personal item for free, but this is not always the case, especially for budget airlines that charge per bag.
What is One Bag Travel?
I’ve been there. Wasting time at baggage claim as the lighter travelers zip away. Lugging my checked bag and my backpack around on a sweaty search for a taxi or bus in a new city or country. Heaving my bags up the stairs to my room, and then asking the big question: Why on Earth do I need all this stuff? But I used a different ‘S’ word.
One bag travel refers to traveling with just one bag. Not one carry-on bag and a backpack but, rather, one bag for everything . In essence, one bag travel is all about traveling light.
One bag travel is arguably always preferable if possible.
This is because it limits the amount of stuff you have to lug around, which can be a huge (and literal) pain if you’re on the road for quite some time. You’ll also save money on checked baggage fees by carrying your luggage onto the plane with you. Likewise, you’ll save time without having to wait at baggage claim. And you’ll feel a heck of a lot better when you’re not carrying around a bunch of unnecessary items that you have to sift through every time you need to find anything.
With the freedom and flexibility that a single bag offers, you’ll be able to navigate planes, trains, and automobiles better than Steve Martin and John Candy ever could. One bag travel is perfect for backpack travel in Europe or Southeast Asia, for example.
That said, within your one bag, you should always stuff another packable daypack like the Cotopaxi Batac 16L , Arc’teryx Index or the Tortuga Setout Packable Daypack . This way, when you do go on day adventures, you don’t have to bring everything you own with you.
Backpacks vs. Rolling Luggage
Now that you’ve seen the light of one bag travel, what kind of single bag do you need? A backpack for travel or a classic roller suitcase. There are situations in which either of these options is optimal.
A suitcase boasts a stiff construction that zips open all the way around. This means you can pack in a more organized manner, so your clothes will be easier to access and have, in theory, fewer wrinkles. Plus, rolling a suitcase through the airport is a lot less daunting than lugging a backpack on your back.
Until you hit stairs and curbs, and have to navigate through the city to find your accommodation. That’s when a backpack comes in handy. With a backpack, you’re free to go anywhere your legs take you. Just remember that what you gain in mobility, you also gain in effort as you are now carrying all that weight on your back.
All the more reason to get yourself the best carry-on bag for comfort and fit to mitigate that extra burden.
What to Consider When Buying
Finding the ultimate traveling pack for you means that you need to consider which features are the most important. These are the seven most pivotal design features so that all you need to do is check off what you uniquely need.
First things first, find a carry-on bag that meets most carry-on limits.
We’ll start with the maximum sizes that you could possibly pick, based on airlines. I’ve compiled a few of the most common airlines below, along with their carry-on bag limitations in inches.
You may scratch your head and wonder just how much gear you can fit into 22 x 14 x 9, so let me break it down into liters for you. The majority of airlines’ carry-on bags range from 30 to 45 liters and, trust me, that’s plenty of space for the coveted one bag travel.
But here’s the rub: Just what size backpack works for you? This will mostly depend on your body type/size, and what kind of packer you are.
Please don’t underestimate the importance of picking a bag that fits you properly. This can make a world of difference in comfort and mobility. Very generally speaking, women can usually get by with a 30-liter pack, while men are generally comfortable with a 40-liter one.
Always consider your packing style, too. How long are you gone for, how much are you taking and do you want extra space for a souvenir or two?
Opening Style
Once you have a size, one of the more important items here is the opening style. Do you like top loaders, front loads, side zips, drawstring tops or a combination?
Think about what will be most comfortable, natural, and practical for you, and simply look for a bag to match. For carry-on backpacks, I recommend looking for a travel pack with a clamshell or panel loader design.
We already know that the more you cram into a backpack, the more it’s going to weigh you down while you dash through the airport. But consider this: The backpacks themselves can vary drastically when it comes to weight, and some may feel like you’ve already packed a brick or two, even when empty.
The variation in weight is mostly thanks to the different materials that are used in the bag construction, along with different harness constructions. In general, I’ve found that reliable brands that incorporate a sturdy and supportive harness system typically produce slightly heavier bags. Whereas the lighter bags lack this helpful feature.
To a lesser extent, materials also play a role here where, once again, the more durable, water-resistant and long-lasting constructions are, typically, slightly heavier. But this is not always the case. Higher price tags on backpacks can often indicate high-quality materials and construction that have been fine-tuned to not break your back.
So my best advice? Be sure to note what type of harness system the backpack uses, along with the overall weight of the bag. And just remember that, while quality material may weigh more, I guarantee it will pay out in the end.
Materials and Fabrics
Now the list of potential backpack materials is about as long as my arm, so let’s take a minute to break them down and label what’s good, how it’s good and what to steer clear of.
In the durability department, you’ll often find high-density ballistic nylon or Cordura to both be solid options. These are proven to hold up to the rough life of a traveler’s backpack and keep you on the move without a tear-jerking bag tear mid-trip. They are often presented with a weatherproofing treatment for better protection.
For ultimate durability and water resistance rolled into one, pay particular attention to sailcloth. Yes, this is the same material ship’s sails are made from, so you can certainly appreciate the battering they must withstand. They must also hold off the rain from constant storms and mists, yet be light enough to be manipulated into place. You can bet the backpacks made from this material are, therefore, just on this side of indestructible and weatherproof.
Bah! Zippers are zippers, you don’t have to worry about those, right? Sorry to break it to you, folks, but you do need to pay attention to zippers. Just like any other component, zippers are a dime-a-dozen these days, and some are of higher quality than others.
My best advice is to try to find a backpack with the classic YKK brand zippers . This company has been in the game for a long while, and it knows how to make zippers last for the long haul. We’re talking about durable and water-resistant zippers that won’t break when you overstuff your backpack or let water seep in.
Backing Support
Not only can it be a little embarrassing but, more importantly, it’s also incredibly uncomfortable to travel with a sweaty back.
So what can you do? Keep an eye open for a mesh back panel that allows for some airflow back there. Or better yet, look for backpacks that utilize a harness and, ideally, boast mesh backing to lift the pack itself off your back.
Besides keeping you from sweating so much, backing support can also help to distribute the weight more evenly on your back. This keeps your backpack from inducing shoulder and back pains that you certainly don’t need when you’re already cramped up from sleeping on planes and buses all the time.
Harnesses and Shoulder Straps
Most backpacks may look very similar to one another but, trust me, they are almost all built for very specific and very different functions. The differences are usually in the shoulders and harness systems.
Let’s start with the most obvious, male vs. female packs. The two sexes traditionally have different body builds, and backpack manufacturers often accommodate this by producing packs that are specifically designed to fit male and female body types. So, first of all, make sure you’re looking at a pack that’s designed for you.
The next set of differences come with function. The whole kit-and-caboodle of shoulder strap suspension system, waist belt and bag framing comes with heavy hiking and outdoor use in mind. Meanwhile, more casual bags that lack the beef of a waist belt and overt frame are meant for casual wear. Think: city and business travel.
So once again, take a close look at the bag you’re considering, and see if your planned activities are in line with the manufacturer’s intent.
Go Forth and Prosper!
There you have it—the essentials of carry-on travel backpacks from start to finish. From price, quality, material and function, the aforementioned bags boast everything and anything you’ll need on your next adventure. Just remember: Your backpack should be as unique to you and your needs as the travel stories you’re going to come home with.
Carry-On Backpack FAQs
What is the best size backpack for carry-on travel.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is our top pick for a carry-on travel backpack. The Cotopaxi Allpa 42L is a more affordable alternative.
What is the best backpack for a personal item on a plane?
The Aer Travel Pack 3 Small is the perfect personal item backpack for light packers who only want one bag.
What is the best backpack for a long haul flight?
The Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is our top pick for a carry-on travel backpack, and it’s great for long-haul flights.
Will a 35L backpack fit under an airplane seat?
Probably not. A 35L backpack will be too big to fit in the personal item sizer or under the seat of most airlines.
How strict are airplanes about backpack size?
It varies, but many airlines are very strict about backpack sizes, and will make you check your bag in the sizer if it looks close to the limit.
Jeremy Scott Foster
Looking at the list, the one thing is weight. Here in Europe quite a few airlines have tightened up on weight. The previous 10 kilo limit has dropped to 8 kilos. Some majors allow more.
I only fly between main destinations, the rest is by train and bus. Here is where the depth of the pack causes problems, some trains and buses have very shallow overhead racks and the backpack will not fit. Especially buses, so the pack has to go in the cargo hold and you pray no one steals your pack at the various stops en-route (yes it happens).
A large pack of 35L is my main one, bought from a mountain shop in London–I travel very light. For short trips, an ultralight 20L Gonex (also inside my large one on longer trips) does the job, it weighs 6.5 ounces and compacts well. The straps are nice, stuff stayed dry in a down pour and I use it a lot.
Recently I was looking for a backpack. I didn’t have enough information about a lightweight backpack. After reading your article I was able to buy it.
So glad I was able to help!
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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.
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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
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 .
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.
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.
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 .
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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 best carry-on luggage of 2024.
Discover the best carry-on luggage for your unique travel style and needs.
The Best Carry-on Luggage
Rachael Hood | U.S. News
Things aren't always as they seem – especially when it comes to luggage. In our quest to find the best carry-on bags, we discovered that while some suitcases look good, they don't always hold up to the demands of travel. Some designs have attractive features that add bulk but not additional functionality, while others just don't live up to the hype.
To determine the best carry-on luggage, we tested dozens of bags on countless trips to find the ideal bag for every travel need. Read on to find the best option in a variety of categories, tested and reviewed by our team of experts.
Best Overall: ROAM Carry-On Front Pocket
- Jump to features and expert insights ↓
- Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on Hardside Spinner
Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On
Best soft-sided: samsonite solyte dlx carry-on spinner, best lightweight: july carry on light, best for international travel: delsey paris helium aero international carry-on - expandable spinner, best affordable: amazon basics 20-inch hardside spinner.
- Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner
- Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-On Luggage
Best for Business Travel: Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner – 20.4 Inch
Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.
- Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder–22"
Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)
Price: $625 or less
Dimensions: 22 x 14.25 x 9.75 inches | Weight: 8.3 pounds Packing capacity: 4-7 days; 37 liters | Color options: Custom color combinations include red, black, lilac and slate Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime with a 100-day trial
This fully customizable suitcase allows travelers to create a one-of-a-kind carry-on bag. From the front and back of the bag to the handles, zippers and wheels, you choose the color combination you love.
However, it's not all about the aesthetics: This hard-shell suitcase has 360-degree ball bearing wheels that roll easily over multiple surfaces, including brick sidewalks and moving walkways. The telescoping handle is sturdy and adjustable, which makes the bag glide with you, and the front-access pocket has a key fob and room for a laptop, phone, glasses and small travel essentials. There's also a built-in TSA lock. The back of the suitcase has an inset with a monogrammable leather tag to keep your personal information discreet while traveling.
Note: This carry-on is currently on closeout with limited color availability.
What our editors say:
I was extremely impressed from the moment I opened the box. It was nicely packaged in a blue ROAM-branded dust bag and the carry-on is beautifully constructed. It's made of high-quality materials, and I found the compression panels with mesh zippered compartments to be extremely useful for both maximizing space and keeping items in place while traveling. But what really sets this bag apart is how easy it is to maneuver when fully packed for a weeklong trip. It glides effortlessly over all types of terrain, even inlaid brick sidewalks! The customized color scheme (which is really easy to do) takes this carry-on to a new level. Plus, you can create a coordinating tote or backpack to match. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor
Best Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner
Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News
Price: $369.99 or less
Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 10 days; 45 liters | Color options: White, red, blue, green or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime
The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a truly well-rounded carry-on with a plethora of unique features. USB A & C ports on the outside of the bag give easy access to charging. (A power bank is not included, though the bag does have a pocket for one inside the expansion zipper.) Self-aligning magnetic wheels – a reviewer-favorite feature – allow painless travel through the airport as well as on roads, sidewalks, uneven surfaces and more. A built-in TSA zipper lock offers ultimate protection for your possessions.
Even without the features listed above, this Travelpro spinner is, at its core, a high-quality piece. The hard outer shell is ultra-strong and 100% polycarbonate; aluminum corner guards further protect your belongings. The clamshell-style suitcase has two large interior compartments along with three extra pockets, one of which is water-resistant, and the expansion zipper allows for an extra 2 inches of packing room. Plus, this carry-on is made with genuine leather trim, so you can travel in style as well as comfort.
There are some amazing features on this carry-on, but my favorite is the wheels – as someone who typically prefers hands-free travel (primarily backpacks), I found that the way this suitcase easily glides around everywhere absolutely changed my mind about wheeled luggage. Just know that since this is one of the larger bags on this list, I would still check your airline's carry-on size requirements before traveling (though it's been tested for most major domestic airlines, and it fit perfectly on Delta). – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer
Amanda Norcross | U.S. News
Price: $275 or less
Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 39.8 liters | Color options: Black, navy, blue gray or olive, plus 2 glossy options Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited
When it comes to hard-sided carry-on luggage, nothing beats The Carry-On by Away. The bag is lightweight yet indestructible thanks to a 100% polycarbonate exterior. Plus, you can easily wipe away most scratches with a magic eraser.
In late 2023, Away launched a new iteration of The Carry-On that somehow made it even more efficient. The most notable new features are an additional underside grab handle, three extra interior compartments, and an enhanced compression system that upholds the bag's ability to accommodate nearly a week's worth of clothing. The bag's 360-degree wheels are also slimmer than those of its predecessor for improved maneuverability. While Away has long been known for its neutral colored matte options, glossy options of this bag are now available.
The Away Carry-On is my ride or die. I've taken it on so many trips over the past five-plus years and it's still in perfect shape. I know I'll have it with me for many years to come. – Amanda Norcross, Content and SEO Strategist
Catriona Kendall | U.S. News
Price: $199.99 or less
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Black, gray, green, aqua blue or royal blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited
This classic soft-sided option from Samsonite offers everything you need for a smooth trip. There are three spacious pockets and a trolley strap on the outside so you can stack it on top of another rolling suitcase, as well as a USB port for charging your phone (though you'll have to purchase a battery separately).
Inside the suitcase, three more zippered pockets – including one for wet items – help you stay organized, while buckles keep the main compartment's tie-down straps out of your way while packing. This spinner can conveniently expand by 0.75 inches, but keep in mind if you're flying that overpacking may put it over your carry-on size allowance.
I've used other spinner suitcases in the past, but none of them glide as smoothly as this bag, with its 360-degree dual-spinner wheels. I also love the high-quality, lightweight material, but my favorite part is its organizational features – especially the WetPak pocket. I'd highly recommend the Samsonite SoLyte DLX for anyone who needs a trusty soft-sided carry-on for a flight; it definitely fits more than I thought it would. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor
Price: $245 or less
Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.17 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 3.9 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Beige, light green, dark green, lilac, charcoal or 3 others Hard- or soft-sided: Hard | Warranty: Lifetime with 100-day returns
Weighing just under 4 pounds, this bag is the lightest hard-sided carry-on we found on the market. It's constructed with an extremely durable German polycarbonate shell, and the interior has two mesh zippered compartments to keep your belongings from shifting. The inner nylon lining is also resistant to water and stains. To make the suitcase easy to maneuver, there's a top carry handle, a telescoping handle and dual-spinner wheels.
I was absolutely shocked by how light this suitcase is. While some lightweight designs can be extremely flimsy, this July carry-on is very durable and holds a good amount of clothing. With compression packing cubes I was able to pack enough clothing for a week. It was extremely easy to put in the plane's overhead compartment, and the wheels rolled very smoothly for my entire journey. The only thing I noticed is that since the bag is so lightweight, the trolley bag I had was making it want to topple. Next time, I'd use a smaller tote or a north-south design to avoid that issue. – Rachael Hood
Erin Evans | U.S. News
Price: $179.99 or less
Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 inches | Weight: 8.16 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 41 liters | Color options: Black, blue, red or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited
This DELSEY PARIS carry-on is a well-built piece of hard-sided luggage. It meets carry-on suitcase size restrictions for most international airlines and offers an easily accessible front compartment – ideal for a laptop up to 15.6 inches or other items you want to be able to grab quickly. The suitcase has a TSA lock and two spacious internal compartments for clothing, shoes and travel gear. The double-spinner wheels glide smoothly across all types of surfaces, and the handle pulls out and retracts with ease.
I was incredibly impressed by this little workhorse of a carry-on bag. There are so many different pockets and compartments within it for organization, and it fits a surprising amount of clothes, shoes and accessories. The handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and the glossy exterior makes it look sleek and chic. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor
Tips on Trips and Expert Picks
Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.
Price: $80 or less
Dimensions: 21.46 x 14.76 x 9.45 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 23 liters | Color options: Black, navy blue, orange or light blue Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year
The Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner is similar to many other hard-sided luggage products on the market, but it's available at a fraction of the price. The ABS shell is textured, so even if you – or luggage handlers – bang it around a bit, it does not show scuffs or scratches easily. The double-spinner wheels (a must, honestly, in today's luggage landscape) make the bag effortless to maneuver.
Inside, one side of the bag features a compression strap, while the other has a large fabric zippered closure, complete with a few organizer pockets for smaller items. Thanks to its availability on Amazon Prime, the carry-on luggage ships quickly, so it's also a great option if you need new luggage in a crunch.
This carry-on bag is a superb selection for the budget-conscious traveler. I appreciated how much I was able to get into this bag (it doesn't look huge, but it fit quite a lot), and the textured exterior really ups the durability factor. The compression straps and the interior organizer even helped me squeeze in a bit more. – Erin Evans
Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner
Price: $699 or less
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 (up to 11.5) inches | Weight: 10 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 37-48 liters | Color options: Black, navy or olive Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime
The Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner has a standout feature that other bags on this list don't: one-touch CX expansion. Exclusive to Briggs & Riley, this technology allows your bag to expand and compress in one swift motion. Simply press and pull up on the red levers found at opposite ends of the bag, and it will grow 2.5 inches. Once you've packed your belongings, push down on the buttons to compress the bag before zipping it up.
This bag also features a garment folder to reduce wrinkles in a suit or dress, as well as cinch-down garment panels to secure the clothing in place. Other convenient features include interior mesh compartments for organization, an exterior pocket for airport essentials (or even your laptop) and a signature PowerPocket where you can charge your smartphone.
While the bag is undoubtedly an investment at $700, its "simple as that" guarantee (free repairs forever, no questions asked) – plus sturdy features like impact-resistant corner guards and self-repairing zippers – means you'll have it for life.
When it comes to quality, this is the best luggage I've ever used – period. The compression/expansion system is just the icing on the cake. – Amanda Norcross
Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage
Price: $165 or less
Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.1 pounds Packing capacity: 2-4 days; 34 liters | Color options: Chocolate, oatmeal or rose quartz Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 2-year limited
Compact and filled with useful features, this CALPAK underseater has a water-resistant exterior, a TSA-approved lock, and side and top handles for easy lifting into the overhead or pushing under the seat. There's a telescoping handle, a luggage trolley sleeve and two exterior pockets for stowing small items like your passport, boarding pass and earbuds.
On the inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve, multiple interior pockets and compression straps. For added convenience, the main panel can be secured via built-in snaps to get your laptop out while traveling (and keep your other belongings from spilling out), or you can unsnap it while packing to maximize the interior storage space.
When I'm traveling on a quick trip with my laptop, this is my go-to bag. Its compact size glides easily under the seat, and it's also compact and light enough to fit into the overhead bin even on the smallest regional planes. I love the laptop sleeve and the zippered exterior pocket for my book, earbuds and wipes. To maximize the interior space, I use compression cubes from Lug , and I'm able to squeeze in four to five outfits, a pair of shoes and daily necessities. – Rachael Hood
Price: $83 or less
Dimensions: 20.4 x 14.9 x 8.2 inches | Weight: 6.35 pounds Packing capacity: 2-3 days; 26 liters | Color options: Black, olive, gray, red, blue or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year
This simple but sturdy carry-on piece from Amazon is a great option for business travelers, thanks to its front pocket for easy laptop access, smooth double-spinner wheels and TSA lock. This Amazon Basics soft-sided carry-on also features a handle on the bottom between the wheels, which makes it easy to put the bag up into and pull it out of the overhead bin. On some airplanes, it may even be small enough to fit under the seat.
The interior of the bag features one large compartment with two compression straps, plus two zippered pockets on the opposite site. The 20.4-inch option is ideal for shorter trips, but this style is available in larger sizes as well. Another bonus: It's available on Amazon Prime, so it ships quickly.
This Amazon Basics option is on the smaller side for a carry-on, but that's what makes it a solid choice for business travelers going on short trips who only need to pack a few things. The laptop pocket is easily accessible, and the handle on the bottom of the bag is super useful for hauling it out of an overhead bin. The black color is professional, and the price can't be beat. – Erin Evans
Price: $565 or less
Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 43 liters | Color options: Gray/cognac, gray/chocolate, gray/black or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime with a 100-day trial
Constructed with premium materials, this luxury carry-on has Italian leather accents, Japanese spinner wheels and a polycarbonate exterior with an aluminum metal frame for stability. It closes via two secure latches with combination locks (rather than a zipper). There's a front laptop compartment with a smaller pocket and pen slots to keep business essentials or travel documents easy to access.
The interior has leather details, compression straps and a removable compression pad with a pocket – ideal for small items like ties, fashion jewelry or silk scarves. Travelers can also purchase an additional compression pad to have a pad on each side of the interior compartment.
This suitcase exudes luxury with its Italian leather trim and understated elegance. The design of it looks very sleek, the interior is spacious, the handle is very sturdy and the wheels glide with ease. I especially liked that the top of the suitcase is very flat, which gave my trolley bag a secure base so it wasn't moving around while I was at the airport, and the front compartment was ideal for accessing my laptop on the go. It feels very sturdy, but the only downside is it weighs more than a typical carry-on. – Rachael Hood
Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22"
Price: $270 or less
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 40 liters | Color options: Black Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime
The North Face's 22-inch Rolling Thunder duffel doesn't have the bells and whistles of other carry-on options, but it's a sturdy and reliable option for those who want a duffel style on wheels. The duffel has a hard-sided back panel, two wheels that can withstand various terrain and plastic bumpers for abrasion resistance. The soft-sided top of the bag is made of water-resistant Base Camp material and nylon for extra durability. There are two zippered pockets on the outside to stash small items and a mesh pocket inside for some added organization.
I brought this duffel on a trip to New Zealand, and it held up very well. The Rolling Thunder had no issues after being checked on six different flights, and the flexibility of the style allowed me to easily store it out of the way in my campervan once I had unpacked. It's definitely a simpler style, but it does its job well. Be aware, though, that this wheeled style doesn't have straps that would allow you to carry it like a duffel; it can only be rolled. – Catriona Kendall
Price: $200 or less
Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-10 days; 35 liters | Color options: Multiple options but color availability changes frequently Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime
When it comes to hands-free and adventure travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can't be beat. This lightweight carry-on backpack comes with a sternum strap, a removable waist belt and a weight-distributing harness system, all to make for a comfortable carry (since sore shoulders can be a concern when it comes to carrying backpacks through time-consuming airport experiences).
Organization is a breeze with a top zippered pocket – perfect for storing travel documents or a Cotopaxi hip pack – and a padded laptop sleeve on the outside. Internally, you'll find two mesh compartments, one large and one subdivided, that work great with Cotopaxi packing cubes . The backpack's straps can be tucked away for more streamlined travel, and the bag even comes with a rain cover (though the Allpa is already TPU-coated to be water-resistant).
Furthermore, Cotopaxi is dedicated to sustainability : 94% of Cotopaxi products contain repurposed, recycled or responsible materials. The vibrant, one-of-a-kind Del Dia Allpa backpacks , for example, use remnant fabric.
I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures and it's survived everything – wind, rain, being shoved into tiny rental cars, you name it. Besides being incredibly durable, I love how much this backpack can fit; my longest trip so far with only the Allpa 35L as my luggage has been a comfortable nine days, and that included packing bulky cold-weather gear. I just wish it had a water bottle pocket like the Allpa 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson
Also Recommended
Solgaard Carry-on Closet – Large: This bag packs a built-in organizer component along with a durable exterior. The Solgaard Carry-on Closet is worth considering if you like to avoid packing and unpacking.
Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner: While the Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner is a solid (and sustainable) carry-on bag for less than $200, it doesn't offer quite enough space – especially for someone who may be traveling for longer.
Away The Aluminum Carry-On Bag: This is a well-built carry-on bag. The only downfall is that it's on the heavier side, weighing nearly 11 pounds. Away's Aluminum Carry-On is also more than twice the cost of the standard carry-on by Away, which works just as well.
Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: This is a great soft-sided option if you're looking for a lightweight suitcase. Featuring a sleek nylon construction, a large front exterior pocket and internal zippered pockets, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner works well but isn't as lightweight as the July Carry-on Light.
Monos Carry-on Plus: It's a high-quality suitcase with a lot of internal details, but given its larger size this bag doesn't fit in the overhead compartment on multiple planes (especially regional jets). That said, if you're traveling domestically on larger planes, the Monos Carry-on Plus could be an option to consider. Or, the smaller standard Monos Carry-on could be a good option as well.
Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage
Pros and cons of soft-sided luggage, frequently asked questions.
Aside from traditional rolling suitcases, the following items can be used as carry-on luggage provided they meet carry-on size limitations (which vary by airline) and fit in the overhead bin or fully under the seat (not sticking out) in front of you.
- Duffel and weekender bags: This includes weekenders and duffel bags with wheels . Just note that wheels are included in carry-on dimension restrictions.
- Garment bags: These are also considered carry-on baggage by most airlines. You can place your garment bag in the overhead bin, or in some cases, a small closet on the plane.
- Pet carriers: Some airlines consider pet carriers to be carry-on luggage. Check with your chosen airline when preparing for your trip with Fido.
- Backpacks: If your carry-on backpack fits under the seat, it will count toward your personal item allowance on most major airlines. This means you'll have the option to bring an additional bag for the overhead bin.
- Diaper bags: If you're traveling with a baby, diaper bags and other baby travel gear generally don't count toward either allowance – meaning you can bring these items in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item.
Purses , briefcases and camera bags can be carried on the plane as well, but usually aren't considered carry-on bags and are instead labeled personal items. Underseater bags – often designed specifically to fit comfortably under a plane seat – are also ideal as a personal item.
Typically, travelers can bring one carry-on bag (for the overhead bin) and one personal item (for under the seat) on the plane, free of charge.
Carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline. Several major U.S. carriers, such as American Airlines and United, impose a 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule. If you're buying new carry-on luggage, this is a good default size to choose – especially if you fly with a variety of airlines.
For international airlines, it's often 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. To be sure about dimensions as well as any weight restrictions, see our guide to Carry-on Luggage Size & Weight by Airline . It usually doesn't matter how heavy your carry-on bag is, though some airlines do monitor the weight.
- Hard-sided: The hard-sided July Carry On Light weighs less than 4 pounds, making it one of the most lightweight carry-on bags on the market. Other lightweight carry-on bags we recommend include the hard-sided Away The Carry-On (7.5 pounds) and the Amazon 20-Inch Hardside Spinner (7.3 pounds).
- Soft-sided: If you're looking for a lightweight, soft-sided carry-on bag, consider the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner (4.8 pounds) and the Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner (7.1 pounds).
Hard-sided luggage is often heavier than soft-sided luggage – but only by a few pounds. If you're planning to purchase a hard-sided carry-on bag, look for something that's made of polycarbonate or polypropylene, both of which are lightweight yet durable materials.
How We Tested
Our team tested 26 carry-on bags across several price points and on a variety of trips spanning overseas flights, weekend getaways, overnight trips and more. We traveled by car, plane, train and cruise and packed for a variety of climates and activities, from shore excursions in Mexico to rainy road trips around Iceland. For bags with wheels, we tested their maneuverability on multiple surfaces, including gravel, pavement, grass, moving walkways, cobblestone and carpet. After four months of testing, we deem these carry-on bags the best of the best for 2024.
Why Trust U.S. News Travel
The following editors personally tested the luggage recommended in this article:
Erin Evans , Managing Editor: Evans loves a durable bag and also can't say no to a good deal. Considering how banged up luggage can get, her picks on this list are both well-made and affordable.
Rachael Hood , Senior Editor: Hood rarely checks a bag, yet she loves to pack a lot and pick up some new finds along her journey. She looks for a combination of durability, functionality, interior space and overall appearance.
Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor: Kendall opts for convenient and versatile carry-ons that can work well for weekend and weekslong trips alike.
Amanda Norcross , Content & SEO Strategist: Norcross has mastered the art of traveling with a carry-on bag only, but believes this is only possible with the right luggage.
Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer: Osmundson prefers lightweight, streamlined luggage that's ideal for adventure travel.
You might also be interested in:
- What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
- What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag
- The Best Travel Insurance Companies
Tags: Travel , Travel Gear
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- # 1 South Island, New Zealand
- # 4 Bora Bora
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5 best backpacks for every travel style
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.
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
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 .
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
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
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
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.
The 12 Best Travel Backpack Carry-Ons in 2023
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .
Packing for a trip can be stressful. Is your checked bag within the weight limit? Will your personal item fit under the seat ? Did you consolidate liquids for TSA ? They’ll let your $150 bottle of first-press Italian olive oil through, right? And, of course, you’re definitely going to be able to juggle it all as you run through the airport just barely making your connecting flight. Here, we’ve rounded up the best travel backpack carry-on options that’ll keep your hands free, fit all the things and tuck neatly into the overhead bin. Vacation stress, be gone!
What Is the Largest Backpack Allowed for Carry-On?
As noted by The Points Guy, the standard carry-on size for domestic airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, though the dimensions may vary slightly by airline. Double-check with your carrier before making an investment in a carry-on travel backpack. Also keep in mind that the carry-on and personal item are not the same—these dimensions refer to the bag you put in the overhead bin.
What Is the Best Backpack to Use as Carry-On Luggage?
The best carry-on travel backpack depends on your packing needs. If you’re headed to another continent for a month of backpacking, you probably want to consider the expandable Peak Design Travel Backpack or The North Face Base Camp Duffle , both of which are built for rugged outdoor activities. On a business trip? Try the streamlined Asenlin Travel Backpack . Those traveling with youngsters will probably appreciate the lightweight Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack, which holds plenty of snacks. Read on for the 12 best travel backpack carry-ons, no matter your destination.
The Best Travel Backpacks at a Glance
- Best Travel Backpack for Women: Calpak Terra Backpack
- Best Backpack for Business Travel: Lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0
- Best Travel Laptop Backpack: Asenlin Travel Backpack
- Best Lightweight Travel Backpack: The North Face Base Camp Duffle
- Best Small Travel Backpack: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack
- Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel: L.L. Bean Continental Travel Pack
- Best Travel Backpack for Petites: Tumi Just In Case Backpack
- Most Expandable: Peak Design Travel Backpack
- Best Waterproof Backpack for Travel: Yeti Panga Backpack
- Most Affordable: Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack
- Suitcase-Style: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
- Best 40-Liter Travel Backpack: Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag
The Best Travel Essentials, According to Travel Bloggers, Family Travelers and General Adventures
Best Travel Backpack for Women
1. calpak terra backpack.
- Why We Love It: made from recycled polyester, fun colors, padded and adjustable shoulder straps, trolley sleeve
- Capacity: 26L
- Material: recycled polyester
- Dimensions: 18x12x7.5 inches
The Calpak Terra backpack is on PureWow fashion editor Abby Hepworth ’s wish list. A clamshell opening and 17-inch laptop sleeve make stashing the essentials easy. Plus, it’s water-resistant and converts from backpack to duffle with a trolley sleeve. There’s a roomy main pocket with compression straps, plus multiple integrated pockets for smaller items. It's made of recycled polyester, which repurposed 27 plastic bottles.
“I went back and forth trying to decide whether or not I should buy this bag,” writes one Calpak reviewer, Taylor. “Well, I did, and I cannot be more thankful. I am a frequent traveler and I refuse to check any bags. This bag has helped me fit more things than I ever have on my trips. The laptop sleeve in the back is absolutely amazing. Seriously, just buy this.”
Best Backpack for Business Travel
2. lululemon everyday backpack 2.0.
- Why We Love It: sleek, water repellent, neutral colors, exterior padded laptop sleeve
- Capacity: 23L
- Material: polyester
- Dimensions: 11.4x5.9x16.5 inches
PureWow’s beauty director, Jenny Jin , loves her Lululemon Everyday backpack, which has a 16-inch exterior laptop sleeve. Jin appreciates that it can hold an extra set of clothes, while the smaller compartments corral her plethora of lip balms. There are also two slots on either side of the backpack that keep water bottles and umbrellas in easy reach.
“I take my Lululemon everywhere,” she says. “The material is easy to wipe down and it has that handy strap in the back to slide over my suitcase handle when I'm walking through the airport.”
Best Travel Laptop Backpack
3. asenlin travel backpack.
- Why We Love It: wheeled variation, comes with packing cubes, laptop sleeve, reflective belt
- Capacity: 40L
- Dimensions: 18.5x13x9 inches
“I love this travel backpack because you can open it wide like a luggage and pack so much stuff without it being too bulky,” notes PureWow associate editor Chelsea Candelario . “You can carry it on your back or tuck the straps and hold it like a carry on. I also appreciate that it comes with so many compartments for my laptop, water bottle, etc.” Other notable features we love: handy packing cubes, compression straps in the main compartment and a quick conversion into a duffle.
Best Lightweight Travel Backpack
4. the north face base camp duffle, the north face.
- Why We Love It: wide color selection, made from recycled materials, company lifetime warranty
- Capacity: 50L
- Dimensions: 13x21x13 inches
“This duffel from The North Face comes in a ton of different sizes, most of which come with removable/adjustable backpack straps for easy carrying,” says Hepworth. “The small is the perfect carry-on size. I love that it’s essentially one giant hole so you can organize as you like and really utilize every centimeter of space in there, and the top opens really wide to give you easy access to all your things.” This bag also scores points for its durability, water resistance and padded side handles. The handles can be used to tote your bag or wear it on your shoulders. A mesh pocket on the D-flap will keep smaller trinkets organized.
Best Small Travel Backpack
5. dagne dover dakota backpack, dagne dover.
- Why We Love It: recycled lining, shoe bag, trolley pass-through, various sizes and colors
- Capacity: 16L (medium)
- Material: recycled plastic, neoprene
- Dimensions: 11.5x5x17 inches (medium)
The Dagne Dover Dakota backpack comes in three sizes, all of which comply with carry-on constraints. The medium rendition will accommodate a 13-inch laptop (16 inches for the large) and comes with four exterior and three interior pockets. The vegan bag has a lining made of recycled plastic bottles and is lightweight, clocking in around two pounds. “I love all the organizational features and that it even comes with a bag to keep shoes separate,” notes PureWow’s assistant commerce editor Natalie LaBarbera . Other reviewers also praised the backpack’s organizational features, which has garnered it nearly 3,000 reviews for an average of 4.8 stars.
Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel
6. l.l. bean continental travel pack.
- Why We Love It: made from recycled materials, water- and abrasion- resistant, trolley sleeve, stowable straps
- Capacity: 43L
- Dimensions: 22x13x10 inches
Crossing countries and continents? The L.L. Bean Continental Travel Pack is your friend. With a 43-liter capacity, it’s roomy. The interior has two separate packing compartments, making it easy to store dirty and clean laundry. It also comes with a shoe bag. The backpack opens like a clamshell, has top and side grab handles and leather zipper pulls for a luxe touch. There are also pockets galore with built-in organization. “This backpack carryon can hold A LOT,” shares Barb, a L.L. Bean reviewer. “It is a square shape and therefore one can really pack it nicely. Front compartments make [it easy to access your laptop, phone, windbreaker etc.]”
Best Travel Backpack for Petites
7. tumi just in case backpack.
- Why We Love It: stain and water resistant, folds flat, stylish, lightweight
- Capacity: 15L
- Material: nylon
- Dimensions: 15.5 x 12.3 x 4.5 inches
At just over half a pound, this Tumi backpack was made for all those things you might need “just in case.” Small laptop or tablet, cosmetics, hand sanitizer, sunglasses—it all fits neatly into the main compartment, front zip pocket or detachable interior zip pouch. “I love that it has padded laptop sleeve inside because I don't go anywhere without mine, and it slips easily over my luggage handle,” says PureWow commerce editor Olivia Dubyak . Plus, the bag itself will fold flat into its own zippered bag for convenient storage.
Most Expandable
8. peak design travel backpack, peak design.
- Why We Love It: made from recycled materials, packing and tech accessories available, can compress to 30L, theft-deterrent zippers, quick-access side pockets, lifetime guarantee
- Capacity: 45L
- Material: recycled nylon
- Dimensions: 9 x 22 x 13 inches
Peak Design’s travel backpack is billed as one that does it all, and the praise is high. “Easily the best backpack I’ve used,” one reviewer writes. “I bought this backpack prior to a domestic trip for five days. It held all the clothes and items I wanted for the trip. All of the external straps stow in the bag, which makes it fit in the overhead compartments of domestic flights really well.” Additionally, the brand creates lines of packing and camera cubes. The backpack can compress to 30 liters or expand to 45. There are numerous access points and expandable side pockets, but the brand also thought ahead: the zippers are theft-deterrent. With a luggage pass-through and weatherproof shell, it’s a prime pick for any adventure.
Best Waterproof Backpack for Travel
9. yeti panga backpack.
- Why We Love It: waterproof, leakproof, laptop sleeve
- Capacity: 28L
- Material: nylon, thermoplastic polyurethane
- Dimensions: 12.5 x 7 x 20 inches
You might recognize this brand for their coolers and drinkware, but as it turns out, Yeti makes travel backpacks, too. This one is waterproof (up to a meter for 30 minutes), puncture-proof and leakproof with a laptop sleeve and interior mesh pocket to keep the small things organized. One reviewer praised this backpack as the “eighth wonder of the world. This bag blew away my expectations. The heavy-duty engineering makes this backpack virtually indestructible. Spacious, comfortable, and waterproof...what more could you ask for?”
Most Affordable
10. fjallraven kanken classic backpack, fjallraven kanken.
- Why We Love It: wide color selection, dirt- and water- resistant, ergonomic shoulder straps,
- Capacity: 16L
- Material: Vinylon F, polypropylene
- Dimensions: 14.9 x 10.6 x 5.1 inches
Layout, compartments, materials, weight, reviews
“I love the classic Kanken backpack,” shares PureWow’s operations director of branded content, Rachel Gulmi . “It seriously fits so much stuff and is comfortable on your back. I also like the top handles for another way to carry it. The material is durable and it comes in so many fun colors. It's my go-to travel backpack!” The classic backpack has a cavernous main compartment with a removable seat pad. Two side pockets give quick access to water bottles and umbrellas, and the front zip pocket holds all the little trinkets.
Suitcase-Style
11. cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.
- Why We Love It: lifetime warranty and repairs, transforms into duffle, interior mesh compartments, security zippers, rain cover
- Capacity: 35L
- Material: thermoplastic polyurethane-coated polyester
- Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches
“I just bought this, and I'm already obsessed,” says Pam Masin, PureWow’s director of affiliate strategy. “It opens like a suitcase and has four zippered mesh compartments inside, including a main compartment on one side where the bulk of your clothes go, and then three smaller sections on the other to keep items like shoes and toiletries secure. Cotopaxi really levels up the organization with a padded laptop sleeve accessible through an exterior zipper (making airline security a breeze). There’s a top compartment for items you want easy access to while traveling (like headphones, your passport, and a book). But the coolest feature? Not only does the bag use YKK zippers, which lock in place, but around the zippers are loops of fabric that act as a security system so the bag cannot be easily opened by someone else. The only drawback here is that it does take an extra second to unzip this bag yourself, but that's fine by me if I know my stuff is secure.”
Best 40-Liter Travel Backpack
12. baboon to the moon go-bag, baboon to the moon.
- Why We Love It: fun colors, limited-edition drops, lifetime warranty, lockable zippers, external passport pocket
- Material: PVC, polyester
- Dimensions: 10.5 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches
“I have the small Go-Bag and it works like a charm for weekend trips,” says PureWow editorial assistant Delia Curtis . “It can hold three to five days’ worth of clothes, has plenty of zipped compartments for ample storage and organization, adjustable straps, and comes in such fun colors! It’s super easy to clean (I’m talking Wet Wipes easy) and has a waterproof outer shell. They frequently collaborate with artists to create patterned inner linings for their bags.”
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Marissa Wu is a PureWow Associate Editor with a focus on SEO. She covers everything from fashion and home trends to travel, beauty, wellness, family and food. Her work has also appeared in Southern Living, Martha Stewart and Forbes Vetted .
PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
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Home » Gear » best travel backpack
Choosing the BEST Travel Backpack: (2024)
Did you know that the average human makes upwards of 35,000 decisions every single day? That’s a whole lotta deciding right? But in truth, some of life’s (many) decisions are more important than others. BIG decisions include what career to pursue, who to marry and of course whether you should take the red pill, the blue pill (or both…_
So, in the grand scheme of things, choosing which travel backpack to buy may not seem all that important and yet take it from us (the experts), having the right backpack can sometimes make or break a trip. Seriously peeps, choosing which backpack to bring on a given trip is almost as important as choosing where to go.
Your travel backpack will carry every single one of your possessions on the road and will become your home. You need your chosen backpack to be strong, durable, comfortable, and compact enough to save you some space! Over the years, I have personally tried countless different backpacks and pushed them far past their limits.
So in this post I am going to channel all of that experience and knowledge in order to help you deuce what is the best travel backpack for your trip? Let’s go find out.
Quick Answer: These are the Best Travel Backpacks of 2024
So why choose to travel with a backpack, travel backpack: the best overall for 2024, the best carry on travel backpacks, best travel backpacks for hiking, best backpacks for digital nomads, the best backpacks for travel photographers, other special travel backpacks worth considering, what makes a good travel backpack, the great backpacker debate (must read), faq about the best travel backpack, conclusion of the best travel backpacks mega-list.
- #1 Nomatic 40L Travel Bag – The Best Overall Backpack
- #2 Tropicfeel Shell – Best Organised Travel Backpack
- #3 Osprey Aether Plus 70L – Best Long Term Travel Backpack for Men (Large)
- #4 Osprey Farpoint 40L – Best Travel Backpack (Carry on)
- #5 Osprey Aura 50L – Best Long Term Travel Backpack for Women (Large)
- #6 Osprey Airscape UNLTD – Best Travel & Hiking Backpack
- #7 Tortuga Travel Pack –Best Full-Size Carry On (Unisex)
- #8 Osprey Ozone – Best Travel Bag with Wheels
- #9 WANDRD PRVKE 31 – Best Camera Backpack for Travel
- #10 Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack – Best Travel Bag for Laptops
Nomatic 40L Travel Bag
- Liters > 30L and 40L
- Material > Tarpaulin/Ballistic Weave
- Best Use > Travel, digital nomad lifestyle, weekend trips
Osprey Men’s Aether Plus 70
- Price > $$$
- Liters > 70L
- Material > 210D high-tenacity nylon
- Best Use > Backpacking
Osprey Farpoint 40
- Liters > 40L
- Material > 450D recycled twist dobby polyester
- Best Use > Travel, international backpacking, urban lifestyle
Osprey Aura 50
- Liters > 50L
- Material > 210D honeycomb recycled nylon
- Best Use > Trekking, backpacking, hiking, international travel
Osprey Airscape UNLTD
- Price > $$$$
- Liters > 68L
- Material > 210D Nylon Mini Hex Diamond Ripstop
- Best Use > Hiking, international backpacking,
Tropicfeel Shell
- Liters > 22-40
- Material > Polyester – 60% recycled material, 100% recycled nylon
Tortuga Travel Pack
- Material > SHELL200D Recycled Polyester
Osprey Ozone
- Liters > 38L
- Material > 100-denier recycled high-tenacity NanoFly nylon
- Best Use > Travel, international wheelpacking
WANDRD PRVKE 31
- Liters > 31-36L
- Material > Combination of tarpaulin and robic nylon
- Best Use > Travel photography
Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack
- Liters > 25L
- Material > 900D heathered polyester
- Best Use > Travel, digital nomad lifestyle, carry on, day pack
Ok so why should you travel with a backpack rather than suitcase? Well, ultimately it depends on where you are going and your travel style.
For example, the cobbled streets of Europe, dirt roads of Nepal, and busy bus stations around the world are quite simply not suitcase friendly. In these environments your suitcase is likely to get damaged, get in the way and, in general, piss you off. Trust me, carrying your suitcase because the wheels have fallen off while you search for the hostel, is not a great start to a trip.
And, if you are planning to visit multiple destinations and using public transport, a suitcase is simply not practical and you will hate yourself for bringing one!
Backpacks also look kind of cool whereas suitcases just make you look like a tourist.
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Crucially, when traveling with a backpack your hands are free to use Google Maps to find your hostel, tackling stairs is not a problem, and you can officially join the backpacker hordes! No one likes a suitcase.
Still not convinced? What if I told you that once you invest in the best travel bag you shouldn’t ever need to buy another one! A good quality travel backpack lasts years and does not get damaged as easily as suitcases. I’ve been dragging my pack around the globe for nearly ten years and it’s still going strong.
The best backpacks for travel will be flexible in size and shape so when they are not full, there is more chance that you can take them on board planes. Some traveling backpacks even come with detachable day packs to make things even easier.
Why Should You Trust Us?
The Broke Backpacker team have been travelling and living out of their own backpacks for years now. Collectively, they must have 50+ years of travel experience and, by now, know what it takes to be successful on the road. They are experts in their field and take great pleasure in presenting the best possible gear to you.
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Let’s kick this off with what I feel are the absolute TOP backpacks to travel with.
#1 Nomatic Travel Bag 40L
- Dimemsions: 22.86 x 53.34 x 35.56 cm
- Weight: 1.55 kg
- Looks sexy!
- Modern and efficient
- Tons of room
- Lots of awesome features
- Carry on size
Nomatic bags are designed to be modern, sleek, and provide ultimate packing efficiency. This is accomplished by great design: tons of features, and more pockets and sleeves than you’ll know what to do with.
The Nomatic Travel Pack 40L is widely acclaimed as the perfect travel pack for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its meticulously designed organization system sets it apart. The pack features an array of compartments and pockets that are intelligently laid out, ensuring that every item has its specific place. This includes a dedicated laptop and tablet compartment, a secure RFID safe pocket, and a versatile main compartment that can expand or contract based on your packing needs.
The bag can seamlessly transition from a 40L check-in bag to a slimmer, day pack by simply adjusting the expansion zipper, making it incredibly versatile for different types of trips. The thoughtful design extends to the inclusion of a cord management system and a magnetic water bottle pocket, making it incredibly convenient to stay organized and access essentials on the go. Whether you need a backpack for a business trip or are a digital nomad traveling the world, this will keep your laptop and valuables well secured all while looking stylish.
Read our full review of the Nomatic Travel Bag!
#2 Aer Travel Pack 3 – Our Favorite Backpack to Travel With Runner Up
- Volume: 35 liters
- Dimemsions: 55 x 33 x 22
- Weight: 1.87 kg
- Multiple compartments for organization
- Lots of potential customization
Here at The Broke Backpacker, we are big fans of AER – and the Travel Bag is one of their best backpacks to date. This bag has gotten a ton of (much deserved) hype and it’s our pick for the best overall travel backpack!
The AER Travel Pack 3 is a testament to functional design and urban style, ideal for the modern traveler who values efficiency and aesthetics. This pack is crafted from high-quality, water-resistant materials, ensuring durability and protection against the elements. a wonderful backpack for digital nomads on the go. It can fit your laptop as well as any other travel gear you tote around. Use it as a daypack around town or bring it on the pane for one bag travel.
There are many different compartments, pockets, and zippers to keep you organized. There’s a laptop sleeve and a very handy place just for shoes. With its blend of durability, organization, and style, the AER Travel Pack 3 stands as an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and fashionable travel companion.
The minimalist outer design helps deter thieves, and what the outside lacks in pockets it makes up for with well-designed internal storage.
Read our Aer Travel Pack 2 review to learn more about thus bag!
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#3 Osprey Men’s Aether Plus 70 – Best For Backpacking (Men)
- Dimemsions: 83.82 x 38.1 x 35.56 cm
- Weight: 2.81 kg
- Convertible top-lid day pack.
The Osprey Aether is in our view, the quintessential backpackers backpack. If you headed to Southeast Asia for a few month, or maybe going on a backcountry hiking trip, then this arguably the PERFECT backpack.
It’s offers a whopping 70 litres of storage and has all the advantages that every pack from the Osprey brand offers. (the Osprey ‘All-Mighty Guarantee’ , durability, comfort). Several of us here at TBB use this pack for all of our backpacking trips and I have carried mine across 5 continents now. It has plenty of pockets and compartments to keep things extra organized plus An AirScape back panel to keep you cool on the warmest adventures. I can guarantee it’ll last a lifetime, if you don’t believe me, just ask Osprey!
Literally guys, they put a lifetime guarantee on every single product they sell to prove it. The only downside to this pack is you can’t avoid checked luggage fee’s with this bad boy as its too big. But at least you don’t have to dump any stuff! This is hands down one of the best backpacks for traveling around the world on a longer adventure.
Check out our review of the Aether 70 backpack to learn more!
#4 Osprey Aura 50 – Best For Backpacking (Women)
- Dimemsions: 81.28 x 38.1 x 30.48 cm
- Weight: 1.86 kg
- Anti-Gravity Suspension
- Floating top-lid replaceable with FlapJacket
- Multiple organisation options.
The ladies-specific Osprey Aura is the best travel backpack for women. This is a high-quality backpack for women traveling on epic short or long haul adventures. Osprey as a brand are awesome and they guarantee to last many adventures! Seriously, all Osprey travel bags come with a lifetime guarantee making them undeniably the best value backpacks.
With the unique built-in Anti-Gravity suspension system, this bag is designed to carry up to 40lbs without the carrier even noticing! Meaning this travel backpack is stable, strong and can carry the weight without you having to suffer for it! If you’re a lady hitting the road, this is the travel backpack I recommend.
Overall, you should get the Osprey Aura 50 if you are traveling in a variety of weather (humidity and snow) and hike and backpack often. This backpack will be a great fit if you are looking for a high-quality backpack that can handle wear and tear.
Check out our awesome Osprey Aura 50 review!
#5 Osprey Airscape UNLTD – Best Hiking & Travel Backpack
- Dimemsions: 81.28 x 40.64 x 38.1 cm
- Weight: 2.72 kg
- Cutting edge super comfy back support
- Lid detaches into a day pack
The Osprey Airscape is one of two spanking hiking packs launched by the world’s leading backpack brand’s as part of its UNLTD series. The Airscape UNLTD is a 68 litre hiking and travel backpack that utilises cutting edge, 3D printing technology to create an ultra comfy, supportive and breathable lumbar, back support.
Whilst there are too many little features to list in this section (read on for the full run down), another major bonus is the 8l top lid that converts to an 18l day pack which brings a whole new dimension to the pack.
Alas, the Osprey Airscape UNLTD also comes with a hefty $750 price tag which by far makes it the most expensive backpack that I have ever come across. Whether it is really worth that amount of money is of course debatable but what I can say is that this is by far the most comfortable hiking backpack that I have ever tried.
I have about four different travel backpacks now. For longer trips I generally use my Osprey Aether, but I also have a number of carry on backpacks which I use for shorter trips.
And hear this, these days it is increasingly common for airlines to charge separately for checked bags and it can often increase the price of the ticket by 50%. As such, if you only travel with a compact backpack you can save a fortune on luggage fees and simply take your backpack on a flight as carry-on. Budget backpacking win right there!
Below are some of my favorite backpacks that I use as a carry-on. If you’d like to learn more about these sort of bags, then be sure to head over our comprehensive guide on the top carry-on backpacks to take traveling!
#1 Osprey Farpoint 40 L – Best Carry-on Backpack (Men)
- Dimemsions: 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 cm
- Weight: 1.59 kg
- Large panel zip access to main compartment.
- Stowaway backpanel, harness and hipbelt with zippered rear flap for protection.
- Laptop and tablet sleeve secure in lockable compartment.
Overall, you should get the Osprey Farpoint 40 if you are traveling the world, and like to pack super light (like me). If you are looking for a nearly indestructible carry on backpack which can actually carry, and compartmentalize, a lot of stuff – this backpack might be your match made in heaven.
Because of it’s 40 liter size, the Farpoint 40 is a near-guarantee to carry on no matter the airline. This will save you hundreds of dollars in checking fees, and countless hours waiting in baggage claim. And as we will look at later, there is plenty of space to make sure that light-traveling does not mean bad-traveling.
In my opinion, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is the best value carry on backpack on the market right now. Check out our epic Osprey Farpoint review here .
#2 Osprey Fairview 40 – Best Carry-on Backpack (Women)
- Size: 40 Liters
- Dimemsions: 53.34 x 35.56 x 22.86 cm
- All of the pros of the Osprey Farpoint 40.
- A hiking and carry-on backpack specifically designed to fit women!
The Osprey Fairview 40 was designed specifically for women – making this category an easy choice! To clarify for the ladies… ANY of the bags mentioned prior can be used for women. Whether you are interested in Minaal, Tortuga, AER, or any of the others – all of these bags are unisex. Except for the Osprey Fairview 40, which was designed specifically for women.
This travel backpack can transform into a duffel bag, which is made even more awesome by the included shoulder strap, and the ability to stow the bag’s harness and hip belt. At a square 40 liters, you’ll rarely have to worry about this bag being checked.
If you are a lady, and want all of the glory of Osprey in a bag that is specifically designed for you, then hell yes! Please, don’t be hesitant to purchase any of the other bags (as they are all unisex!) but if you want a badass hiking pack that also functions as a carry on backpack, this is an easy pick.
#3 Peak Design Travel Pack – Best 30l Carry On Travel Pack
- Capacity: 30 litres
- Dimemsions: 53cm x 34cm x 20cm
- Weight: 1.44 kg
- Price: $250
- Great organisational capacity
- Extends to 33L
- Amazing for organization
- Comfy to carry and fits under the seat
The Peak Design 30L Travel Pack is built with the modern traveler in mind. Its 30-liter capacity is perfect for weekend getaways or even extended travel if you pack light. The bag’s sleek design isn’t just about looks; it’s also about function. Its adjustable compartments allow for a customized fit for your belongings, while its innovative side access points provide convenience in retrieving items without having to dig through the entire bag. The expansion zippers give you the flexibility to accommodate extra items when needed, making it an adaptable companion for various travel durations.
I have been incredibly impressed by this travel pack and it has now accompanied me on a free weekend rips already. What I really love about it is how well organised I can get with my packing – everything has its place and there are enough zips and pockets to stash all of those little odds and ends. In terms of downsides, the packs material is thick and robust but not all that nice to the touch. The bag does also feel a bit heavier than it looks.
Finally I personally find that 30 litres is only ever enough storage for a few nights worth of traveling but perhaps thats just me – I do after all travel with a hair-dryer. Fortunately though there is a 40 litre version available.
#4 Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Full Size Carry-on
- Size: 45 litres
- Dimemsions: 47 x 30 x 23
- Weight: 1.5 kg
- The design will leave you fairly impressed
- It has tons of pockets/compartments
- It packs huge – you can put A LOT in it
The first thing I noticed when packing my new Tortuga Travel Pack, was just how massive the main compartment was. It has the capacity to carry a ton of clothes. If you are a world traveler, then this is great because it means you have to do less laundry – score! And yet despite its generous capacity, the new and improved version of the Tortuga Travel pack was custom designed to for carry on meaning that it complies with the limits for pretty much every airline in the world.
Its a cleverly designed pan too. The Travel Pack by Tortuga’s design enables its the main compartment to be opened like a suitcase; this is far more convenient than a traditional backpackers backpack. Reaching my stuff was simple, and because of the organization of the compartments, it was easy to know what was where.
Inside the main compartment are six smaller compartments. The first four smaller compartments are enclosed within the main compartment. The Tortuga Travel Pack is still without a doubt one of the best backpacks on the market. It’s quality build, intuitive design, fantastic organization, and smaller size make it the perfect compact travel bag for anyone who wants to travel light, but travel in style.
Check out out our must-read full Tortuga Travel Pack review .
#5 Tropicfeel Shell Backpack – Best Backpack for Organizing
- Size: 22-40 litres
- Dimemsions: 51 x 30 x 19 cm
- Really fucking versatile
- Packs up easily
- Fairly priced
The Shell by Tropicfeel is a little to medium backpack sized with a big concept. Firstly, it is a 3 in 1 extendable backpack that begins life as a 22 liter pack, rolls up to 30 litres and then with the addition of a detachable pouch goes all the way to 40 litres.
As well as being a 3-in-1 backpack (which you can easily adapt to use as day pack, overnight pack and carry-on pack), the Shell also has another awesome feature – a little, mini drop in pull out travel roll up wardrobe! With multiple compartments, you can easily pack and unpack all of your belongings. For a quick outfit change at the airport, this is ideal.
This is a VERY unique and special pack and it seriously impressed me. While not all of you will want this kind of pack, it has won itself a delisted fanbase. I also just love how mega-stylish this bag is too. Keeping everything tidy, easily accessible and organized during your travels has never been so easy. On top of that, the recycled material is also weather and water-resistant.
Want to know more about the company, we’ve done a full review of TropicFeel just for you!
A lot of people like to go hiking while they are out traveling the world. To do so, they need a special type of travel backpack, one that can go further, carry more, and last longer.
Aside from the Osprey Aether and Aura, here are a couple more options when looking for a good bag to go traveling and hiking with. If you would like to read more about these special pieces of gear, then be sure to check out our ENORMOUS hiking backpack guide !
#1 Osprey Aether Plus 85 Backpack – A BIG Travel Backpack
- Dimemsions: 86.36 x 40.64x 40.64 cm
- Removable top lid w/compartment and waterproof zipper
- Converts to a lumbar pack with AirScape lumbar pad
Looking to head into the back country in search of adventure? Whether it is a couple of days hiking or an epic adventure The Osprey Aether Plus 85 backpack is the best travel backpack on the market by far.
I’ve been adventuring with my Aether for nearly ten years now. The best thing about Osprey is that they operate an all-mighty guarantee. This means that they will repair any damage done to your pack, no questions asked, for free. However, note that in recent years they have amended this guarantee and it now excludes wear & tear, water damage and airline damage.
The Osprey Aether Plus 85 is a big expedition backpack; it’s 85 liters, extremely comfortable thanks to the custom-molded hip belt, is compatible with hydration systems, has plenty of sections for storage and can easily be loaded up with a ton of stuff – I once strapped three tents to the outside and had a fourth tent on the inside plus cooking equipment, sleeping bags, food, clothes, electronics etc…
#2 Osprey Skarab 30 – A Smaller Backpack for Shorter Journeys
- Dimemsions: 53.34 x 27.94 x 25.4 cm
- Weight: 0.74 kg
- Walking pole attachments
- Adjustable BIOFIT back system
For the days when you venture into the wilderness or walk the market streets, you need a pack that is both comfortable and practical. I’ve been using my Osprey Skarab for three years now as my go-to backpack for shorter adventures or hikes.
It’s one hell of a pack and is the best budget backpack I’ve come across. It’s pretty cheap considering the quality and it has plenty of pockets for storage, a padded hip belt, a safety whistle on the chest strap (always handy!) and an in-built rain cover.
The Osprey Skarab backpack is 30 liters so it’s a backpack best for weekends or ultralight hiking rather than long expeditions where you have to carry tents and food. It can just about handle long trips but space is limited so whilst it is one of the best backpacks for travel, it wouldn’t be my first choice for a long trip. For more intel check out our full-length Osprey Skarab review .
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. 😉
#3 Deuter Aircontact Core 65 + 10 Pack – A Cheaper Travel Backpack Osprey-Alternative
- Dimensions: 84.07 x 32 x 27.94 cm
- Weight: 2.25 kg
- 15% perspiration control
- Dimemsions:
Hands down, this is one of the best backpacks for hiking. This is a fantastic backpack for those looking for comfort, support, breathability and freedom of movement. This backpack is absolutely one of my best picks and if it wasn’t for my trusty Osprey, I would probably be a Deuter man.
These days, traveling without a laptop is just not going to happen. For many of us, a laptop is just as essential as a phone and if you are a digital nomad hitting the road, you need to protect your baby. So amigos, let me share the best travel backpacks for digital nomads and laptop lovers.
#1 Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack – Best Travel Backpack for Digital Nomads
- Size: 25 liters
- Weight: 1.27 kg
- Very functional
- High-quality manufacturing
- Super organized
This one is pretty obvious – the Setout Laptop Backpack is great for…. laptops! But seriously, if you are looking for a sturdy pack to carry your laptop around– look no further, this bad boy is as good as it gets. This is for a few reasons.
First off, Tortuga Backpacks are possibly some of the most well designed and durable backpacks on the market. We’ve reviewed tons of Tortuga products and they all have an incredible amount of detail to them, and are made of the highest quality materials. High quality/durable materials means your precious laptop will be safe and sound.
Simply put, this backpack has tons of organization features, all of which are designed specifically for laptops. Notice in the pictures above and below, that this bag is loaded with ways to keep your gear safe, and very organized. Tortuga markets this bag as an “organized daypack for air travel” – and it’s certainly true!
The design and features of this backpack make it perfect for air travel. Whether it’s the sleek laptop sleeve, the easy to lock zippers, the luggage handle pass through or the hideaway shoulder straps, this bag thrives in airports and airplanes.
Check out our in-depth Tortuga Setout Laptop backpack review .
#2 High Spirit Laptop Backpack – Supreme Organization, Style, and Security
- Size: 19.5 liters
- Extremely well made
- Durable shock-absorbing base
High Spirit Bags have broken onto the travel backpack scene with an emphatic BANG. Their brand new Laptop Backpack is the perfect choice for travelers who prioritize style , security, and functionality all rolled up into one tidy package.
Every inch of the Laptop Backpack is thoughtfully designed to provide the best possible user experience. The high quality leather exterior is the ideal combination of sleek and anti-theft – which when you are toting around expensive electronics – this feature is very important.
Perhaps my favorite feature is the pack’s access design. The zippers are located on the back panel making it virtually impossible for thieves to unzip your backpack whilst you are wearing it. The organizational layout of this backpack provides more than enough storage options for your work day in the city or a weekend jaunt to Barcelona.
Surprisingly, the High Spirt Laptop Backpack is much more affordable than many other laptop-focused travel backpacks out there. The verdict is in: you are not going to find a more high-quality laptop backpack that looks and functions this well for the given price point (£110).
#3 Arcido Akra 35L – A Large yet Lightweight Travel Backpack
- Dimemsions: 55 X 35 X 20 cm
- Weight: 1.7 kg
- Sleek, stylish design
- Super lightweight makes travel easy
- Organized + customizable
This is the perfect carry on travel backpack for urban travelers. Its laptop harness, organizational pockets, and integrative packing cubes (in the Arcido Akra and Vaga Daypack Bundle ) make this the perfect travel backpack for digital nomads too.
At only 2.4 lbs, this is a lightweight backpack for travel that can become even lighter when the sternum straps and waist belt are removed. In essence, Arcido makes simple, tough, and well-designed travel backpacks equipped with enough storage and organizational features make any modern traveler happy. We love that this is an affordable backpack for its high-quality design.
Check out our full Arcido Akra review!
#4 Incase Icon Pack – One of the Toughest Laptops Bags
- Size: 9 x 13 x 19 inches
- Dimemsions: 48.26 x 33.02 x 22.86 cm
- Dedicated laptop compartment
- Multiple organisation options
- Airflow channels in back panel
The Incase Icon Pack is a great travel backpack if you’ll be working on the road and need a sturdy, durable pack to keep your laptop safe while exploring new areas. Featuring multiple exterior and interior pockets, the Icon laptop backpack allows maximum organisation and easy access to your belongings, with a dedicated laptop compartment to stow your gear away safely.
Check out our in-depth breakdown of the best laptop backpacks for more intel!
Photographers need to be very mindful of their gear while traveling. Rough rides and constant movement can imperil sensitive camera equipment, so it’s very important to have a reliable backpack that can keep everything safe.
These are a few more good travel backpacks, this time with the photographers and aspiring photographers in mind. If these suggestions aren’t enough, we’ve also written an in-depth guide to choosing the best camera backpacks too!
#1 WANDRD PRVKE 31 – Best Travel Camera Backpack
- Size: 31 Liters
- Dimemsions: 48 X 30 X 18 cm
- Expandable roll top
- Large enough for travel camera + 3-4 lenses
- Additional straps for accessories
For those who want a backpack that can does a little bit of everything, is durable, and looks damn good in the process, the WADNRD PRVKE 31 is an excellent investment. At 31 (expandable to 36) liters, this backpack can hold quite a bit and there are plenty more pockets to hold everything else. Thanks to its robust weather-resistant design, your belongings will be safe as well. Add in some customizable straps and sleek sexy design and you have a backpack that can do damn near anything.
Though the PRVKE 31 has lots of padding and additional straps for distributing weight, it lacks certain key features that make it truly adept at carrying heavier loads. During our tests, both of the women on our trip struggled somewhat while carrying this bag as it did not fit snugly against their bodies.
I was impressed with the number of customizable options that PRVKE 31 offered. Between the many loops found on the pack as well as the ability to attach adjustable accessory straps (sold separately), users will be able to find many alternative means of packing. Overall, a badass camera backpack!
Read our WANDRD PRVKE 31 review!
#2 Nomatic Peter Mckinnon Camera Bag – Best Travel Camera Backpack
- Size: 35 liters
- Dimemsions: 55.88 x 34.29 x 22.86 cm
- Weight: 2.61 kg
- Expands to 42 liters
- Can hold a full-frame camera, multiple lenses, and a small drone
- Doubles as a great short-term travel backpack
This is the first true camera bag offered by Nomatic. Inspired and designed by legendary Youtuber and renowned photographer Peter Mckinnon, this 35 liter backpack is already a top competitor of the Wandrd PRVKE 31.
Built to last and with the traveling photographer in mind, the Nomatic Camera Bag is ultra-functional, durable, and sleek. Small enough to be a carry on, yet big enough to support extended weekend trips, the 35 liters offered here makes this bag ideal for photographers who find themselves frequently out on overnight/ inner-city trips.
The drawback: to get the most of this bag, you really need to go for the bundle package – which comes with all of the nice accessories that make this backpack great. If you have the money, going for the Nomatic Camera Bag is an excellent investment and is probably an all-around better backpack then the WANDRD 31 when all of the accessories and features are added up.
Read our Nomatic Camera Pack review !
Sometimes traveling calls for a unique bag. Maybe you’re a weekend warrior who needs something both professional and rugged. Maybe you just like to mix things up. Either way, these backpacks maybe more appropriate for you.
#1 Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel – Top Wheeled Backpack for Travel
- Size: 38 Liters
- Weight: 2.27 kg
- Will attach to any of the wheeled luggage by Osprey
- Can be combined with other Osprey bags to make a nimble beast
Wheeled luggage sometimes get a bad reputation. We’ve all seen those travelers trying to roll giant pieces luggage around cobble stone streets or busy Asian alleys, clearly in over their head. But wheeled backpacks are different. …
Designed for the savvy traveler, Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On Wheeled Luggage is pretty much one of the best travel backpacks out there. The padded hip-belt and shoulder harness stow away for easy transport. It can clip on to the wheeled range by osprey for easy transport and it is super breathable. It even has an inside zipped compartment perfect for smelly hiking boots!
I’ve been using this pack on and off for two years: you can fit a TON of stuff in it – a genuinely surprising amount considering it still qualifies as hand luggage most of the time – however, once it’s heavy it quickly becomes a tad uncomfortable – not ideal if you plan on taking it hiking. This is one of the best backpacks for travel if you have a ton of valuables you want to keep in your hand luggage – i.e. if you are a digital nomad!
#2 REI Co-Op Flash 55 – An Excellent Budget Backpack
- Dimensions: 76.2 x 35.56 x 30.48 cm
- Weight: 1.28 kg
- Perfect-Fit suspension for on-body adjustments
- Easy access
- Budget-friendly
Although a little smaller than the Osprey Aether (and not as well-built), the REI Flash 55 still makes for a quality backpack for travel on long haul minimalist trips and weekend backpacking missions.
Ideal for use in both cities and in the mountains, the Flash 55 is a versatile, sturdy backpack with multi-functional pockets, a comfortable, suspension- supported fit, and easy access compartments allowing you to get to your essentials whenever you need to. This is one of the best hiking bags around for under $200.
Coming in just under $200, this pack features 8 external pockets plus a main compartment, making packing for your adventure a breeze. Combine this with a breathable back frame and comfortable hip belt, this is a great go-to for your weekend backpacking trips and more. I’ve used this pack primarily in desert climates, and typically tried to keep the overall packed weight under 35 lbs, and it’s yet to fail me.
All that being said, there are a few things I don’t love about the bag. For starters, the zipper pouch on the back side is made from a ripstop nylon material, which I found to be super inconvenient.. Another small complaint I had was the option to not include a rain cover for the bag. The nylon exterior can fend off small mistings of from mother nature, but anything more would more than likely render the bag (and your belongings inside) rather soaked and heavy.
Picking the best backpack to travel with doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive…
It’s easy to grab a great discount deal from a top brand and, to be honest, if you buy anything from Osprey, AER, or Tortuga you won’t be disappointed. However, not all backpacks are created equal and there’s a few factors you should always look at when picking a backpack for traveling…
1. The Right Travel Backpack Size
Size is a personal choice and the best travel packs have no definitive size. If you are a medium to long term traveler who needs more space for camping gear, who wants to pick up lots of trinkets or who travels with a full wardrobe then you need a 60-liter minimum backpack. I have seen some backpackers make do with 50 litre packs, and while I applaud them, they are definitely freaks!
Larger backpacks however mean checked baggage fees and you are less likely to be able to take your backpack into the bus with you -instead you’ll have to strap it to the roof and hope it doesn’t rain (rain covers do exist mind).
The smaller your travel bag, the less you can take, but the big bonus is no checked bag fees and it’s easier to keep tabs on your pack at all times. If you can keep your backpack below fifty liters you will save a fortune when flying. However the reality is that small bags are usaally too small for trips that last longer than a week to maybe two.
Think carefully about the size of your pack and what’s best for you – the best backpacks for travel are different for everyone. Personally, I travel with a seventy liter pack as I am often carrying camping gear.
2. Straps on Your Travel Backpack
Carrying everything you need to travel the world on your back doesn’t come lightly… even when you pack light! Wandering lost, trying to find a hostel in the heat of the day with a travel bag is not fun, even the lightest packers will agree.
To combat this, the best backpacks will include well designed load bearing straps to help turn that heavy backpack into a fairly light backpack.
The aim of the game is to take weight off your shoulders and onto the hips. This is significantly better for you and you can walk, climb and even jump around pretty comfortably if your pack’s weight is distributed evenly. These days most larger backpacks include hip belts as standard.
For me, quality hip belts are what makes a great travel backpack. Without a hip belt, even the best backpack in the world can turn into a nightmare. Some traveling backpacks have heat-molded custom made hip belts that may appear somewhat gimmicky but are very comfortable.
Your shoulder straps are equally important and should be comfortable to wear, without the hip belt. Look for shoulder straps that have plenty of padding.
3. Pockets, Pockets, POCKETS
Well organised travel bags make the best travel bags. There’s nothing more annoying than a typical backpack which only opens from the top meaning that each and every time you need something you’ll be pulling literally, everything else but that, out.
Pockets alleviate this problem; allowing you to assign certain segments of your travel backpack to particular items (e.g. clothes, toiletries, passport and money) for easier access. The best pocket is a U-shaped opening pocket as this allows easy access.
4. Travel Backpack Weight
Great travel backpacks are those which are as light as a feather. Sadly these don’t really exist and instead, you need to consider the best weight for what you’ll be doing. Backpacks themselves are not weightless, the heavier the frame, the more weight you have to start with.
In general, you want to go for the lightest, but toughest, pack you can find. Gregory Packs are some of the lightest packs on the market but they are simply not as tough as Osprey or AER and that is there downfall…
5. How Comfortable Should a Travel Backpack Be?
Your travel backpack will become your new best friend, it’s where you will store all of your shit, it will basically become your home; therefore you need to try and choose the most comfortable backpack.
You’ll find the best travel pack by trying it on in the store before buying. When trying it on, load it up with some weight to take it for a proper test drive. I strongly recommend trying a bunch of different backpacks on at an REI or Outdoor Store before making your choice.
When it comes to fitting a backpack , you want an even distribution of weight across your hips, shoulders and chest, and to make sure there are no pressure points that may cause the bag to rub or pinch as you walk. Cushioned shoulder pads and padded hip belts are always a winner my friends…
The better your hip belt, the better your pack will sit upon your body and the more comfortable it will be.
6. Material and Construction of a Good Travel Backpack
So it’s raining and you’re still trying to find your hostel? Or you can see your backpack from the plane window waiting to be loaded and it’s sitting in the rain? ( Fuck you Kingfisher Airlines ). Water-resistant material is essential when traveling!
Your bag will be exposed to rain, puddles or leaks at some point. There’s nothing worse than opening the bag to find your clothes soaked and stinking or worse, your electronics damaged. The most durable backpacks are made from strong, durable, stretchy, waterproof material.
So look out for backpack material that will last for years – the last thing you want is a ripped bag halfway through your travels!
Does the sound of having a super-durable backpack speak to you? Check out our in-depth best heavy duty backpacks review!
7. Best Travel Backpacks for Men vs Women
There are literally thousands of backpacks for traveling on the market and the best packs tend to be made with one gender or another in mind. Unisex backpacks usually will fit pretty much anybody but you can get a man’s backpack, which will take into account broad shoulders, for the same price so I definitely recommend finding a gender-specific backpack when you hit the road.
Finding the best female travel bag requires more research than nice colors and comfortable straps. I am, of course not a woman. So to help me out on this I spoke to a bunch of kick-ass women adventurers for advice.
Size is perhaps the most important consideration along with comfortable straps and weight distribution. This doesn’t mean that women have to buy travel bags specifically for them, but the feedback from my girlfriend and friends; is that they’re so much better.
Other than the different design for a typical woman’s body, there is not much difference between the women’s and the men’s travel backpacks. Most of the points that you’ll below apply to both genders so keep these in mind.
Generally speaking, backpackers are some of the most warming, understanding, agreeable people on the planet.
But there is one decisive issue among backpackers.
To travel with a carry on backpack, OR to travel with a large backpack ?
This has proven to be quite the epic debate. Every backpacker has an opinion on the topic, making it difficult for newbie travelers to know which side to pick, and most importantly, which bag to buy.
Let’s go over both options.
In Favor of a Big Backpack (60L – 80L)
The most obvious reason to have a larger backpack is that you can carry more stuff! A 65-70 liter backpack can hold all kinds of extra items from food to gear to photography/videography equipment!
Now not everyone is going to want or necessarily need to deal with all of these extra pieces of kit. More kit means more weight, more check-in fees, and more tedious packing and unpacking sessions. Ultimatly, you should only be packing what you need.
How About 50 Litres?
Some backpackers prefer to use 50 litre backpacks. They offer the comfort and durability of “proper” big backpacks but obviously are lighter and carry less stuff making them lighter again. Honestly, a litre backpack feels really nice to carry and they are easy to throw on and take off bus roofs.
However. While some travellers a 50 litre backpack to be something of a “not too big not too small” sweetspot, I actually find them to occupy a bit of a neversphere. What I mean is that they are too big to take as carry on but (for me) not big enough for a proper long trip. Personally, my view is that you are going to go with a full sized pack, go with 60 litres. Even if you don’t use all 60, at least you have room for souvernirs.
- Can accommodate extra gear for hiking, camping, etc
- Great if traveling to colder destinations
- Great when traveling off the beaten path
- More room=more options
- Additional strain on your back
- Have to check it on airplanes and buses
- Many travelers simply don’t need it
- Not as ideal for urban travel
In Favor of a Carry On Bag (35L – 40L)
While traveling with a 60L+ bag might make sense for some people, it is completely unnecessary for other people. If you are a lighter packer, or maybe if you are just going away for the weekend, then need a 65L beast is too way much.
If this is you, then you may prefer a 40L, “carry on” size bag. To be fair, they are still a decent size and can carry a lot of stuff. If you are not any bringing camping or hiking gear, then a 40-50L bag can be more than enough to handle all of your stuff.
Traveling with a light bag means traveling with less stress. Less stress on your back, less stress in your bag, less stress in your life in general. Travelers who carry large bags often fill it with things they don’t need.
But traveling light does require a sense of dedication, and if this minimalist bag style doesn’t appeal to you, then go big baby!
- Less shit to worry about
- Less stress on your back
- If your bag is under 40L, you don’t have to check it
- Great for urban travel
- Forget about camping, trekking or hitchhiking
- Limited space means less stuff
- Not a great option if you want to bring a lot of clothes
Should you get a Large or Carry On Backpack?
This is completely up to you and will ultimately depend on your travel style.
Take into consideration the type of person you are… is traveling super lightweight attractive to you? Do you plan to go camping around the world ? Do you plan to travel mostly to cities? Will you be flying a lot and want to avoid luggage fees?
By determining your travel plans and travel style, you’ll be able to better make a selection for which travel bag is best for you
If you still have some questions then no problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:
How can you find the right travel backpack for you?
Comfort, durabilty, size and prize are the main factors that determine a good backpack. Make sure you measure your torso and find out how much capacity you need for your gear during your trip. Then choose from the remaining options accordingly.
Is a 40L backpack big enough for Travelling?
Unless you’re travelling extremely minimalistic, long term travel can be tricky with only 40L. For short term travel however, it’s abolutely enough.
What is the best value travel backpack?
The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is a great value backpack since it offers the best bang for your buck that you could find on the market. However, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is a strong competitor.
Are there any good budget backpack options?
The REI Co-Op Flash 55 is an excellent budget option. With 55L and high quality material, the Flash 55 is a versatile, sturdy backpack.
Which is the best travel backpack brand?
For us, the obvious choice is Osprey as they hit the right price point, the backpacks are durable and they offer a big variety of styles.
So there you have it amigos, the best tips to help you find the best travel packs for your upcoming adventures. The packs featured here are our personal favourites and we can vouch for each and every one of them.
Still not sure which backpack to buy? Well to nicely summarise it all for you, the best backpacks for travel are:
- The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is the best overall travel bag for 2024.
- For the best hiking travel backpack, it is the Osprey Aether 70 for men…
- And the Osprey Aura 50 for women!
You are now armed with all of the best options to find the best backpack for you! Our hope is that you find the backpack of your dreams and have many, many awesome adventures with your new best friend.
Now that you have your backpack, it’s time to check out our backpacking packing list for some ideas of what to put in it!
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!
Aiden Freeborn
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59 Comments
You can backpack with a surplus military rucksack and do well. Poorly chosen footwear, tho, not so much.
Lets not hype it too much. Any three of the comparable packs in size and intent would be usable for the length of that trip. For the experienced packer tho, you only get one pair of boots. Choose wisely – and carry extra socks.
I know most of the experienced packers would read right past the opening line, but someone wanting to try the trail for their first time to Devil’s Den would not be well served concentrating on a high end pack and hitting the trail head with flip flops.
Great detailed article. I ended up going with the Wandrd Prvke. I think i made an awesome choice. Really love the looks and functionality of the bag.
Hey Will, Thanks for your wounderful review. Actually I was using Pacsafe Metrosafe backpack and now I want to upgrade my backpack. I’ll go for Nomatic as exactly you said it is designed to be modern, sleek, and provide ultimate packing efficiency. Thank for this buying guide!
Glad you are enjoying the Nomatic Pack! Indeed, that pack is awesome. Cheers.
very informative article sir
Thanks for sharing. I’m the new in backpack travel. I was torn between nomatic backpack and zynego backpack. Although I know the popularity of these two bags cannot be compared, I am very interested in zynego’s ai intelligence system. I think I need help! hhh
Our top choice at the moment is the Nomatic backpack :). Cheers!
I use the Osprey Porter 30L as my Carry On, because I have NEVER had to check it in no matter what airline. Even on small regional flights, I had no issues with it as a Carry On. The Farpoint and Fairview are excellent bags, but depending on the airline, yoiu may have to check them in. That’s never an issue with the Osprey Porter 30L.
Same with my 35 liter Minaal 2.0 Never have to check it. Always allowed carry on. Best way to travel… light… quickly… easily.. one bag… carry on. Much more free feeling…
I missed Deuter act lite but I bought 60 + 10 liter for women and I am more than happy with it!
60 – 70 liters. WOW ! I would never want to be packing that much stuff. Why would you need to pack so much stuff and put so much strain on your body? I travel for months at a time with just a 35 liter convertible backpack and I find that’s plenty. Pick up and go. I never have to check a bag, always carry on. I used to travel with a 45 liter bag, but it was big, and I always had to check it at the airport and then hang around the carousel waiting for it at my destinations. Now I just carry my 35 liter bag on and toss it in the overhead and no waiting a carousels or wondering who’s handling my bag. One Bag…Carry On travel. I always travel for a minimum of two months at a time, and up to four months. One, 35 liter, convertible backpack.
Whoah, Thanks for the lovely post. A great help, hope you continue to do this more often. I really like studying your posts. Cheers!
Hey, I’m in a bit of a dilemma- I’m so used to suitcases and i’m doing my first backbacking trip around SE Asia for 5 weeks in aug-sept. I want to pack quite a few clothes and I’m travelling by plane between different cities. Should I still go for a backpack and what size would you recommend. I was thinking backpack because I want to get scooter Grabs, and also the terrain. I was thinking 60-70 because of the amount of stuff I wanna bring but I was told by a friend that it would break my back lol.
Pssshhhh!!! Don’t listen to them! You can totally take a 60L without a problem so long as you don’t have a pre-existing spinal problem. Just make sure the pack fitted right! Depending on how heavy you pack, you might not need all that stuff though. I’m in Thailand for 7 weeks with Nomatic’s 30L . (Don’t worry, they have laundry service everywhere!)
I’m in my 60’s and would never think of taking a 60 or 70 liter back pack. Too much stuff. And you will have to check it at the airport and possibly pay baggage fees. Why would you want to take lots of clothes? I take three pair of summer weight material zip off pants, three thin summer weight material Columbia shirts wit roll up sleeves and three pair of ex-officio underwear and a good pair of hiking sandals. So I wear one set of clothes, and my other two sets are “Ranger Army Rolled” and in packing cubes in my 35 liter backpack. There are cheap laundries everywhere there that will do a load for a buck or two. And you can even wash your clothes in the sink and shower and hang to dry in your hotel room or apartment. I go for months at a time in Southeast Asia and carry only my 35 liter Minaal 2.0 convertible backpack. So much easier to carry less stuff, and not have to check any bags. Just carry it on the plane and throw it in the overhead. No waiting at carousels, or worrying about other people being rough with your bag or having it being diverted to another country and not showing up. Minimalist, one small bag, carry on is the way to travel. And it’s becoming more popular.
60 – 70 liters. WOW ! I would never want to be packing that much stuff. Sounds like major Himalayan expedition for a few months. I travel for months at a time with just a 35 liter convertible backpack and I find that’s plenty. Pick up and go. Never check a bag, always carry on.
Hey thank you for writing this post. It’s really helpful 🙂
Hi I am not a frequent traveller though like travel. In a recent trip with a connection inDubai, i used an american tourister 35L backpack, which caused a heavy toll on my back. Is it due to the particular brand or backpacks as a whole. Please suggest a backpack that is Back’ frenly.
Hi Shephy, I don’t really know about that model specifically, but if you have no spinal issues normally, a well-made, well-fitted pack won’t give you problems. Make sure you have hip straps (and use them). You can have someone help you fit it properly and always pack the bag with the heaviest stuff closest to your spine. This helps maintain your normal posture.
Have you tried the Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L? I’m trying to decide between that one an the farpoint 40L. Thank you.
Hi Lucas, we have not tested the Eagle Creek backpack you mentioned, but we always recommend anything by Osprey…and the Farpoint is a solid choice!
Any suggestions for a woman with low back issues. I hurt my back last year and can no longer carry larger bags but love the freedom of having a backpack for travel. I’m also only about 5″3″ if that helps.
It’s recommended to have a backpack with hip straps if you’re traveling but in your case, I’d say it’s ESPECIALLY important to have sturdy and padded hip straps, even if it’s a smaller backpack. This will take most of the pressure off your back. The second key element will be to get it properly fitted, especially if you’re wearing a larger bag. You need to find the tension that works for your hip straps, shoulder straps, and stabilizers (if you have them). You can research this online or ask a professional at an outfitter – they’re usually willing to help, even if you didn’t purchase the pack in their store. Similarly, do research on how to mount the pack properly without doing more damage to your back. Lastly, manage the time that you’re carrying your pack. This will just take a little planning before you leave your hotel or get off your flight – take breaks when you need to and cut down on weight as much as possible. I hope you find that backpacking freedom again! See ya out there!
Jackie… take a look at the Minaal 2.0 It’s only 35 liters and is convertible to duffle or backpack. Get the optional waist belt for it. I did. It’s the only bag I take even when I go for months, and I never have to check it. No more waiting at carousels.. I’m 67, and still carry my own bag. No wheelie luggage. There are other 35 liter and even smaller bags out there. You don’t have to get a Minaal 2.0 It’s a pricey bag. But I love mine.
First of all, I’ve been scouring the Internet for any articles/blogs/videos/Reddit comments regarding backpacks that are optimal for people with lower back pain, as I have really bad lower back pain too. Second of all, I HIGHLY recommend you to check out a rolfer or a trained Structural Integration practitioner in your area. Saved me thousands in chiro fees and made me stand straight after years of lower back pain.
As for backpack choices, I suggest maybe 30L and below and with hip straps (maybe Tortuga Setout if you’re in the US) and/or load lifters. I personally am 6 ft and around 185lbs and decided to go with Thule Subterra 34L and Tortuga Setout 35L (for when I need to pack more stuff).
Hope your lower back issues can be fixed!
Thank you all so much!! I appreciate all of the advice!! I have seen a doctor and went through physical therapy for 3 months to get me pretty much back to normal. Unfortunately, heavy lifting still bothers my back and I need to be careful about how and how much I carry. With all of your suggestions I went to get fitted and learned even more about keeping your pack weighted correctly. They fitted me with the Osprey Sirrus 24 Hiking backpack which is a little too small for longer travel so I’m looking at getting the Osprey Fairview 40 Women’s Travel Backpack. Smaller than the ones listed here but I think should be a good option for me. I haven’t bought one yet so I can’t speak to how it works for someone with back pain but I’m hoping it works well. Thanks!!
Yes, 24 liter might be a bit small for long term travel, although there are some minimalists who do travel long term with bags that small. I downsized from a 45 liter bag to a 35 liter convertible backpack. It’s great traveling lighter and being able to carry it on the plane and just toss it in the overhead. I spend months at a time in Southeast and South Asia with only that one 35 liter bag. No waiting at carousels and worrying about it going missing or being mishandled. I feel better not being over loaded down with stuff, not paying baggage fees. Becoming a minimalist one bag, carry on traveler takes adjusting, but is so much more freeing and enjoyable.
You should also start backing up the data you store on your device(s). If you don’t know where to start, you’ll want to dig into our guides covering iCloud backups and iTunes backups. Data loss issues are pretty rare, but there’s always a chance something gets lost in the shuffle as you transition to a new version of iOS.
Hi. Just wanted to leave some information on my trip that I just returned from. I used the Osprey Porter 30. Carry On bag only. I had one connection both ways of the trip. My trip was for three days, and I had no issues fitting what I needed in the bag and I was able to fit it under the seat in front of mine, even on the smaller planes. I stowed away the straps to do it, and it worked out great. One of the best travel investments I made. It also wasn’t uncomfortable walking through the terminals to my connections. I highly recommend the Osprey Porter 30 for shorter trips as a carry on bag. I love it.
Amazing! This makes traveling easier.
Thanks for the recommendations. I really like Osprey and was going to get the Farpoint 40, which because of you and others I know, is said to be an excellent carry on bag. That said, I opted for the Osprey Porter 30 because I need a bag that will ALWAYS be carry on size, no matter what airline I am flying on. I usually only need a bag to get me by for a few days and I am pretty good at packing what I need. This bag looks small on the outside, but it is bigger than it looks. I have no problem packing everything I need. I won’t be hiking, camping, or anything like that. Just needed a carry on bag. I may attach an Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack to it, but I really don’t need to.
I travel one bag, carry on also. So many great bags out there. Used to travel with a 45 liter convertible backpack, but was made to check it too often. So I bought the 35 liter Minaal 2.0 with zip away backpack strap. Can carry it like a duffle bag when I want. I’ve always been able to carry on my Minaal. Never had to check it. Love being a one bag, carry on traveler. Even when going for months, I only take my Minaal 2.0. It’s so freeing not taking so much stuff. I can’t believe the travelers I see with huge 70 – 120 liter expedition backpacks on their back, a second, smaller backpack on their front. Why ? We call them “Turtle Backpackers” Some of them with all that stuff also pulling a big wheelie suitcase. Unbelievable! That can’t be a comfortable way to travel. Impossible. I just toss my little 35 liter backpack on…and gone. For months at a time. Have safe flights and happy travels.
Good content with great pieces of information on traveling bags with so much variety.
Hi Will! Do you have any thoughts or experience with the Osprey Talon 44 as a travel pack in comparison to the osprey packs you mention?
I plan to travel for 1-3 months, fairly light, so I’m hopeful I can use it as a carryon in some cases. I know I want to to some hiking so a travel-specific pack is a no-go for me.
Thanks for the great guide and your awesome website!
Thank you for the very detailed guide and for your recommendation. I’ve had an Osprey backpack for several years, but I am looking to upgrade to something new and I am browsing opinions from experienced backpackers. To be honest, Nomatic was not on my short list, I was looking at Tortuga and Osprey again, but after your strong recommendation, I may have to take it seriously into account. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for sharing this article. Really glad to read this article and I will refer this site to my friends. – hr staffing solutions in bangalore
Not a fan of the Osprey Ozone. It was weird, I expected to love it- my Osprey Vector 22 (a model they don’t make anymore, sadly) is an almost-perfect carry-on rollaboard type of bag.
But the T-handle is a pain in the ass if the bag rocks or a wheel catches just a bit- it twists too easily in your hand and you can’t steady it while walking. I live in Spain and travel Europe, and so there’s lots of cobblestones, and the Ozone wasn’t great there.
The frame is also a little bit weird. Their guarantee is excellent, which is good because the way the bag attaches *to* that bottom frame is with fabric straps and they’re going to get beat up and break.
Just all in all, wasn’t a fan, and I normally love Osprey stuff. I wish they’d bring the Vector back.
That’s why I like my 35 litre Minaal 2.0 backpack.. which I can also carry like a duffle if I wish just by zipping the backpack straps behind their panel. I don’t have to worry about handles and wheels, sand, mud, stairs, cobblestones. It’s going with me again this year back to southeast Asia. Traveling for much longer than the two months I did last time. Just pick up and go…. carry on… no checking baggage or waiting at carousels. It’s the only bag I take.. whether going for two weeks… or for a year or more.. 67 years old now.. 35 litre backpack… get up and go….
I am very thankful to you as your article has given me lots of ideas. I enjoyed a lot by reading this post. Thanks for sharing your blog.- staff providing agency in bangalore
I’m surprised you didn’t include the Minaal 2.0 in your reviews.. I’ve had a Tortuga bag and an M.E.I Voyageur….. both good bags..Both 45 liters. (They’ve been making the Voyageur since the early 1980’s..with a few tiny improvements over the years. Nothing says “Great Product” like longevity in production). But in early 2017 after a lot of research and comparisons, I bought the Minaal 2.0 …a 35 liter convertible backpack. I was made to check my Tortuga and Voyageur on many flights… but during a two month trip to Cambodia and Thailand in 2017… I was always able to carry it on and toss it in the overhead. Its clean lines and grey color with minimalized Minaal logo keep it from sticking out in the crowd.. discrete. Small… pick up and go.. Hide away backpack straps, rain cover in its own little hidden pocket, I like to use a single strap and carry it like a duffle at times.. Only using the backpack straps and hip belt if I do a long hike across a city… You might like to check out the Minaal 2.0
Your guide is phenomenal. I was looking to buy a Best Camera Backpack for my tactical gear trip and happy that I read your review! Love your other travel articles as well.
It is a very advantageous post for me. I’ve enjoyed reading the blog. It is very supportive and useful information. I would like to visit the post once more its valuable content. Thanks for such post and please keep it up.
Thanks for such a comprehensive post about travel backpacks, Will! Love how you managed to incorporate the important features of each backpack, the pros and cons, as well as links on where we can buy them. Thanks for also providing additional links on your detailed reviews for each product
thank you for share this blog with us. I also like travelling and also like hyking on mountains.
Hi Will, I’m a very tall girl 5’10 and travelling SE Asia for a few months next year. I used a bag with detachable dayback while in Australia and loved it. I noticed the Fairpoint doesn’t have an adjustable back system. Which would you recommend?
Hmmm… tough for me to recommend as you’re taller than me! 😛 I recommend going into a shop for this and testing a bunch out to find one that works for you.
Thanks for such a comprehensive post about travel backpacks, Will! Love how you managed to incorporate the important features of each backpack, the pros and cons, as well as links on where we can buy them. Thanks for also providing additional links on your detailed reviews for each product. It saves us time and headache when looking for the best travel backpack for us. Kudos!
I’m planning on travelling from Australia to Asia, and then on to Europe with total travel time of 9 months (potentially staying on to work). Would you recommend getting something bigger than the womens Osprey 55?
Love your website – it’s filled with really great and helpful information!!
Cheers, Ash
Hey Ash! Hmmmm… it really depends on how much stuff you need, and also how tall you are… but personally I would stick to 55 as the max size, if you have something bigger then you WILL fill the space, and you’ll have a real heavy pack!
Hi Will, How does a laptop fit into these travels bags? Im deciding between a 50l deuter bag and a 60l osprey. I think the 50l is enough for me right now but i think i will travel to some colder places in the future and may appreciate the larger size. However, i need to travel with my laptop as well. I dont want to check my laptop in with the checked backpack. Do you think carrying a smaller normal backpack just for my computer would be reasonable?
If you want to travel with a laptop in your main pack, I would honestly consider picking up a pack specifically designed for this, have a read of this post – https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/best-laptop-backpacks-for-travel/
A vote for the Farpoint here, I ‘ve bought two others since I first bought that and gone back to it each time.. so much better build quality and just so comfortable to carry.
Great review. Thanks. I’m torn between the Nomatic Travel Bag and the Osprey Farpoint 40. I’m going to be island hopping and diving in the Philippines, so it looks like I will be getting the obligatory ‘back sweat’ from wearing backpacks.. Is the Nomatic comfy? I see you have to purchase the hip straps separately and they are detachable, which leads me to believe thay won’t be particularly comfy or robust. Plus the price is probably swing it in favour of the Farpoint 40.. although I wish they did it in more colours.. I really like the green (that they only appear to do in the women’s version ‘Fairview’. Keep up the good work.
I personally think the Farpoint is the better pack…
hi will I am looking at the osprey farpoint 70-80 litres, I am going travelling for 6 weeks, I do however have a wedding to attend so I have 2 extra outfits plus 1 extra pair of shoes, It will be summer so not worried about a load of clothes, I love backpack so the travel backpack with the zip all the way around looks great, any suggestions?oh I am 5ft 5in, 68kilos medium build, & have always carried a backpack, oh yeah I do not need a day pack attached, thanks?
The Farpoint is a great pack, assuming you don’t plan on hiking and if you pick up the 70 litre Farpoint, you’ll have plenty of space for sure!
Finally – a comprehensive list of the best backpacks for travellers. I think you’ve persuaded me to pick up the Osprey Ozone. Firstly it looks beautiful but also 46 Litres is the perfect size for me. Thanks for the advice Will!
Happy to help – The Ozone is an epic backpack!
Thanks for sharing. Some great idea’s for backpacks. Love the detail you go into. Makes choosing a new backpack so much easier.
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The Best Luggage to Buy in 2024
These are the top-tested suitcases brands for all of your travel needs.
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
As you plan out your vacations for the year ahead, it's important to keep in mind that the right luggage can have a huge impact on your trip. A good suitcase should be easy to maneuver, spacious to pack, compact and lightweight enough for carrying and durable to hold up to wear and tear.
Our top picks
Best Overall Luggage
Best Value Luggage
American tourister.
Best Carry-On Luggage
Best Luggage for International Travel
Briggs & riley.
Best Under-$100 Luggage
Amazon basics.
Best Luggage for Frequent Flyers
Best Viral Luggage
Best Luggage for Flight Crews
Best Printed Luggage
Best Fashion Luggage
Each piece of luggage is evaluated by experts in the Lab as well as consumer testers on the go. In the Lab, we look at factors like durability, ease of use and more. We also pack each suitcase with a standard load to see how much it can hold and how easy the compartments are to access. Consumer testers come into the Lab to use the luggage in an obstacle course, where they weigh in on handle comfort, wheel performance, maneuverability and more. Finally, we send luggage out with travelers into the real world for firsthand feedback.
You can learn more about how we test luggage and what to consider as you shop — including how to decide between hardside and softside luggage — but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested luggage brands.
Best Carry-On Luggage | Best Checked Luggage | Best Hardside Luggage | Best Duffel Bags | Best Underseat Luggage | Best Luggage on Amazon | Best Travel Backpacks | Best Packing Cubes | Best Luggage Trackers
Samsonite earns our top spot for the best luggage brand because it has a wide assortment for every preference — from business travelers to vacationers — and has continuously proven to be high quality as we've tested it over the years.
In particular, it stands out for its durability and ease-of-use features: There's been no struggling to open and close the cases, and packing them has been a breeze , thanks to the functional compartments that maximize space. It's certainly not inexpensive, but as direct-to-consumer luggage brand prices have skyrocketed, Samsonite's have remained fairly consistent.
Both hardside and softside styles from the brand have excelled in our tests. We've also been impressed by each of the sizes, including carry-ons, checked bags and underseat luggage. Some of our favorite models include the Freeform hardside (pictured here), the Solyte DLX softside and the Stryde Glyder , which is a checked case that's wide instead of tall so it's less likely to tip over.
A consumer tester rolling the Samsonite Freeform carry-on through an obstacle course at the Good Housekeeping Institute.
If you're on a budget or you don’t use luggage regularly — i.e., it doesn’t need to be the most durable and you don’t need all the bells and whistles — American Tourister offers competitive pricing and an excellent variety to choose from . There are a lot of options if you prefer bright colors and fun prints, plus there are cases for the entire family, including a Disney collection . Between the designs and versatile offerings, the models are fun, functional and especially ideal for vacationers.
Just note that while luxury hardside cases are usually made of polycarbonate, American Tourister typically uses ABS plastic, which is more affordable but more prone to scratches. Still, it gets high ratings from online reviewers who note that the bags are surprisingly spacious. Another perk: The brand offers luggage sets for an even better value, especially if you need to purchase multiple pieces. Pictured here is the Pop Max Softside set , which at $150 for a set of three, is less than other single cases.
Away is one of the most popular luggage brands on the market, and our testing shows it actually lives up to its hype. Though the brand has a wide range of offerings, we especially love the hardside carry-on.
It's made of 100% polycarbonate that proved to be durable and lightweight in our evaluations — even lighter than some fabric bags we’ve tested. It was also surprisingly spacious and held a full packing load in our review. The company offers a 100-day return policy on unused items; it also offers a lifetime limited warranty on its suitcases that covers any "functional damage."
Besides the main Carry-On model , it comes in variations like a Bigger Carry-On (which the brand says can hold 20% more) and a Carry-On Flex (which has an expandable zipper). We also love the brand's Everywhere Bag , which is a stylish and surprisingly spacious weekender.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: We Tested Away's Trendy Carry-On to See If It's Worth The Price
An inside view of Away's The Carry On.
Briggs & Riley
Briggs & Riley bags are pricey — a carry-on can cost over $600 — but they come with a lifetime guarantee that will cover all repairs if the luggage ever gets broken or damaged. They also come with innovative features, such as the brand's signature compression packing system. Bags that have this feature expand to let you pack and then compress down after they're filled. In fact, one of our testers said she packed a week's worth of summer clothes for two people into a compact carry-on, and it easily fit into an airline's overhead bin.
The suitcases also use top-notch construction and timeless designs in a range of styles, including hardside, softside, carry-ons and checked bags. The Baseline Global Carry-On Spinner (pictured here in the 21-inch version) has been a selected as GH Family Travel Award winner for the past two years after travel testers gave it perfect scores across the board. Its nylon fabric also aced our Lab's abrasion tests.
The interior compartment of Briggs & Riley's Baseline Carry-On, including its easy-to-use expansion button.
It’s hard to find good luggage for under $100, but Amazon’s luggage does not disappoint. There are softside and hardside styles to choose from, plus garment bags , duffels and more. Amazon also boasts extensive testing to make sure their products will hold up, and though the luggage might not the absolute best quality out there, the price can’t be beat.
We were impressed with its hardside 20-inch spinner carry-on (pictured here) when we tested it on our Lab. Our analysts found it to be exceptionally easy to pack, though the ABS material wasn't as scratch-resistant as other models in our tests. Still, consumer testers liked the maneuverability and wheel performance. This style also comes in two other sizes (24 and 28 inches) and can be purchased as a two- or three-piece set.
This luxury brand is on the pricey side but has timeless designs — from hardside to tweed fabric — that never go out of style. In fact, the brand’s marketing and aesthetics are focused heavily on its heritage. It has been a top performer in our tests, thanks to its spacious interior that's easy to pack and its wheels and handles that make it smooth and comfortable to maneuver.
The hardside cases have earned high scores in our tests — especially standing out for being scratch-resistant, lightweight and spacious — but we also love the softside Legend collection (pictured here), which is made of durable tweed fabric and leather trim.
This fashionable yet functional travel brand was founded by actress Shay Mitchell and incorporates smart features designed to make traveling easier. It also has a stunning aesthetic, including monochromatic color schemes in which the handles and hardware match the case.
Pictured here is the Carry-On Roller, its best-selling case that comes in a range of neutral and fun hues. It was spacious for packing and easy to maneuver in our tests, and though it did scuff during use, it resisted dents well during our Lab's drop tests. Another popular style is its Mini Weekender , which can be used as a personal item that fits underneath the airplane seat in front of you.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Weigh In on Buzzy Travel Brand Béis
The Béis carry-on and compact weekender bag being used as a travel set.
This company was founded by a pilot, and it makes luggage specifically for airline personnel who travel for a living. Still, it's just as functional for business and leisure travelers.
The brand primarily sells softside luggage, though it does have some hardside options available. There’s excellent attention to detail that makes frequent flying easier, like cushioning around the handles for comfort, self-aligning wheels that let you roll the luggage in any direction and abrasion-resistant nylon fabric.
The Platinum Elite softside luggage (pictured here) stood out in our Lab tests. Not only was it durable, but it was also spacious enough to hold our entire load with room to spare. The downside was that it was heavier than others, but it's a fair tradeoff for the top-of-the-line features.
This brand increases the fun factor and makes it easier to spot your luggage in a sea of solid colors. There are adorable animal sets for kids' luggage , animal prints for adults and more. There are also options for licensed teams and art (like Britto, shown here), making your suitcase a playful yet functional accessory.
When it comes to materials, most Heys suitcases are hardside and made of polycarbonate and ABS composite. This means it's mostly ABS plastic but has a polycarbonate coating on the outside for added protection. The brand wasn't the most durable in our tests, it but earned high ease-of-use scores.
Style is certainly important when it comes to luggage — it's an accessory, after all — but you don't want to sacrifice quality and functionality. Calpak's cases are both well-made and have unique designs. Though its assortment is tailored with fewer models than some of the big brands, Calpak still has a wide range of materials to choose from, including sleek hardside polycarbonate, printed ABS/polycarbonate blends and ripstop polyester.
Calpak's Ambeur carry-on (pictured here) was one of our testers' favorites; they especially loved the easy-to-use telescopic handle and metallic color. We also found it to be easy to pack and though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some others we tested (which is expected for ABS composites), it still withstood dents and damage from our durability drop test.
Rolling TUMI luggage through the airport is like a status symbol; the brand is highly recognized for its upscale products for both business and leisure travelers.
In addition to its suitcases , it makes accessories like briefcases and backpacks and has components that make traveling easier, like an anti-slip strap on carrying bags and an extra hook on rolling bags so you can wheel multiple items at once. On top of that, the brand stands out for its unique service offerings, like repairs and luggage registration to help you find lost bags.
We especially love Tumi's Alpha collection (pictured here is the Alpha carry-on ) with its durable materials and removable garment sleeve. One GH analyst who has been using a backpack in this collection appreciates that it fits more than you'd expect and has a versatile design for travel, work and beyond.
If you’re going away for weeks or just have lots to pack, L.L.Bean’s duffels are roomy enough to stuff in everything you need. There are options with or without wheels and lots of sizes to choose from (the Adventure Rolling Duffel , shown here, is incredibly durable and one of our go-to picks for vacations with kids).
The flexible shape of the duffel also allows it to store easily under your bed, so it’s perfect for college students or anyone tight on storage space. It’s also made of sturdy, water-resistant nylon fabric that's made to last no matter where your travels take you — in fact, one of our experts says it's lasted for years without signs of wear. She does note that it's a little more cumbersome to pull than four-wheel spinner luggage and it's spaciousness makes it easy to go over the 50-pound weight limit for airlines, but says it's perfect for packing for two kids.
Monos says its design philosophy is "less is more," — meaning the bags are made to be simple and timeless to avoid passing trends and high quality so they can stand the test of time. Most of its hardside bags are entirely polycarbonate, though some combine polycarbonate and aluminum for increased durability. They also have useful packing features like wide compression straps to help you fit more in the case.
The Check-In Large was a winner of last year's GH Family Travel Awards because of its spacious interior and maneuverability. Testers said it was easy to roll and they loved the sleek appearance. It's also worth noting that the brand has a 100-day return period so you can get a refund if it's not a good fit.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Travelers Love the Monos Luggage Collection
Monos luggage shown in three sizes: Check-in Large, Check-in Medium and Carry-on
Eagle Creek
Whether you’re backpacking internationally or exploring a national park, Eagle Creek gives you both the convenience and durability you need in a bag. Some have various compartments so you can stay organized (or store shoes and dirty laundry separately), and some bags have backpack straps if you need to be hands-free.
We especially love the Cargo Hauler Duffel for shorter trips: It’s affordable, spacious, lightweight and folds up into a small pouch for easy storage. For longer getaways, the Migrate Wheeled Duffel (pictured here) is larger and has two wheels with a telescopic handle. It also opens wide so you can easily access the contents.
Eagle Creek's Migrate Wheeled Duffel, left, being checked in at an airport terminal.
Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.
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Best Travel Backpacks for Your Next Adventure
Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.
I love the idea of getting out of town and traveling. I don’t care if it’s an overnight trip, a weekend getaway, or visiting a new city for a week or more. The idea of discovering new places, trying out new restaurants, and shopping appeals to me. When I hit the road, I also take a travel backpack. It doesn’t matter if I’m traveling by train or plane—there’s me and a travel backpack.
I’m confessing here: I own three travel backpacks. No, it’s not that I am a shopaholic (I take the fifth on that); each type of travel backpack serves a different purpose. The one thing that all my backpacks have in common is a padded sleeve for my laptop.
I use my small top-loading backpack for quick overnight trips, the gym, and working away from home. It’s roomy enough to hold a change of clothes and has compartments to organize things while securely holding my electronics.
Travel backpack number two is my carry-on item when flying—it’s a 24L bag that neatly keeps my electronic equipment safe. The main compartment has room to hold my valuables and shoes. The outer zippered pockets carry my wallet, passport, and items I must grab quickly. It fits under the airplane seat with ease.
A 35L bag is my bag for week-long trips. It has a secret top compartment, a separate shoe compartment, and a padded laptop sleeve, and it can be overstuffed. To keep things balanced, I use both the chest and hip straps.
Travel backpacks allow you to easily hop on a plane or train and bypass waiting for your bags at the end of a long flight. The best travel backpack will enable you to kick up your heels and go anywhere immediately.
What to keep in mind when shopping for a travel backpack
Airline regulations.
The largest backpack that would be allowed on a domestic flight would be 22” x 14” x 9” for it to be considered a carry-on bag. If taking a large backpack on an international flight, the largest backpack can not be bigger than 21.5 “ x 15.5” x 9” as a carry-on item. If the backpack is bigger than either of those measurements, it must be checked in as luggage.
The best way to pick a travel backpack is to match it to the length of your trip. We checked in with eco-friendly, sustainable travel bag company Timbuk2’s Director of Merchandising, Brandon McCarthy , on choosing the best travel backpack for your vacation. McCarthy echoed my packing philosophy. When asked how to find the right size travel backpack, McCarthy wrote in an email interview, “For a one to two-day overnight trip, a 20 to 25 liter pack can accommodate all your gear and needs.” McCarthy continued, “Opt for bigger travel backpacks like 35 to 40 liter bags for longer trips. They offer lots of storage space, have smart pocketing, and a comfortable carry with the additional lumbar support and sternum straps.”
Functionality
Looking at the larger travel backpacks is a good idea if you’ll be on the road for over two weeks. That means travel backpacks that are 40L or over will generally hold everything you need for a long trip on the road. If you’re a packing whiz and can make packed clothing into tiny rolls or extremely small squares, use a 35L. (And don’t forget your toiletry bag .)
However, if you’re a maximalist, opt for a long-haul travel backpack. The larger size (55L and over) will hold multiple wardrobe changes.
If you’re like me and cannot live without your laptop, make sure the travel backpack that you select has a dedicated padded laptop compartment.
Lastly, expandable backpacks are great for people who travel a lot. Because they expand, their size can be adjusted for your needs.
Cost-to-benefit ratio
The final factor to contemplate is the dreaded cost-to-benefit ratio. While owning and showing off a top-of-the-line travel backpack is nice, you can find a great backpack that won’t cost you a mint. After all, you want a backpack that works, not one that will make your fellow passengers green with envy.
Take into account how often you travel. If you go on frequent vacations or work trips, investing in a pricey travel backpack that can withstand constant travel stress makes sense. A moderately-priced backpack is a better investment if you only travel once or twice a year.
No matter how much money you may spend, you want one that works for your trip and needs. Some bags are marketed specifically for travel, like certain backpacks for women , but most are for any and everyone. You can even buy travel backpacks for kids, which are sized proportionately for smaller frames. Narrow down your choices on what type of backpack you need. That should include size and options. After you do that, then look at price tags.
This curated list has travel backpacks with rave reviews and tons of options that are under $100.
Our top picks for best travel backpacks
Best small backpack for travel: delsey paris peugeot voyages backpack tote bag.
DELSEY Paris Peugeot Voyages Backpack Tote Bag
Peugeot Voyages luggage has the exact details of luxury brands without the nosebleed price tag. While it’s a unisex travel item, it’s a great travel backpack for women, as the exterior compartments can hold a French wallet, a small makeup bag, and other sundries. Their backpack tote bag has a weatherproof exterior made from eco-friendly materials, and the roomy interior is lined with antimicrobial fabric that absorbs odors. That’s a win-win if you’re toting smelly sneakers or laundry on the trip home.
Specifications:
- Material: Exterior - poly/nylon made with recycled water bottles, Interior- recycled polyester treated with antimicrobial SILVADUR. Leather trim.
- Dimensions: 14.25 x 6.5 x 16.25 inches
- Capacity: 24.4L
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
- Colors: Navy Price on publish: $195
What we like:
- Multiple interior and exterior pockets, including an RFID compartment
- Zippered top
- Padded straps and back
- Has a dust bag
What we don't Like:
- It can only be hand-carried when it’s converted into a tote bag.
The bottom line:
It’s a little pricey, but I find it incredibly durable as someone who owns it. It looks new even after two years of use.
Get it here: DELSEY Paris Peugeot Voyages Backpack Tote Bag
Best large backpack for travel: Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack
Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack
We like Timbuk2 products because they stand behind their sustainably made gear. If you have a problem with it, activate their lifetime warranty, send the backpack to them, and they’ll fix it for free. The Never Check expands three liters, from 24.50L to 27.5L, making it adaptable for any type of trip, barring a long-haul one.
- Material: Sustainably sourced fabric sourced from bluesign® certified mills
- Dimensions: 10.6 x 11.4 x 18.9 inches
- Capacity: 24.50L to 27.5L expanded
- Weight: 2.6 pounds
- Colors: Black
- Price at publish: $209
- Has an organizer compartment with slots for everything that you need to grab quickly
- Weatherproof zippers keep the interior dry
- Separate compartments for water bottles and iPad
- Knowing that the travel backpack can expand makes it tempting to overpack
The bottom line:
The Timbuk2’s travel expandable backpack is great for business and leisure travelers.
Get it here: Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack
Best travel backpack for men: The North Face Jester Backpack
THE NORTH FACE Jester Backpack
TNF prides itself on creating rugged gear that lasts forever. Made from recyclable materials, this 28L travel backpack’s FlexVent™ suspension system frame comfortably distributes weight, and includes injection-molded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a breathable lumbar It has padded laptop and tablet sleeves and two external water bottle pockets. The main roomy compartment can hold a week’s worth of neatly rolled clothing.
- Materials: 600D recycled polyester with non-PFC, durable, water-repellent, non-PFC DWR finish. Trims are made with recycled plastic.
- Dimensions: 11 x 8.25 x 18.13 inches
- Capacity: 18L
- Weight: 1.63 pounds
- Colors: Black, Gray, Leather Brown, Pine
- Price at publish: $74.99
- Lightweight
- Designed to stand upright, it doesn’t tip over when rummaging through it
- Water-resistant
- Padded back panel and molded shoulder straps
- Not exactly sure what the bungee cord trim is supposed to do other than spice up the backpack’s style
This well-made, eco-friendly backpack was designed to protect your back while carrying a week’s worth of clothing.
Get it here : The North Face Jester Backpack
Best travel backpack for women: Baggallini Soho Backpack
Baggallini Soho Backpack
A word of warning: once you buy one Baggallini backpack, you want more. Baggallini’s Soho Backpack was my gateway drug. It’s sleek-looking and can be used for commuting and overnight trips. I use it when I’m working away from home or when traveling on short trips. The Soho clocks in a little over a pound and fits a 16-inch laptop. The top loader expands when opened, making finding things a breeze inside the main compartment. Inside, it has RFID card slots, a pen holder (!), and a waterproof exterior.
- Materials: Water-repellent nylon
- Dimensions: 11 x 15 x 6 inches
- Capacity: 455 cubic inches
- Weight: 4.25 pounds
- Colors: Black, Black Camo Jacquard, Black Cheetah, Black Croc Jacquard, Black Neoprene, French Navy, Gray Camo, Heather Gray Neoprene, Smoke, Smoke/Faux Python
- Price at publish: $87.95 - $140
- Hidden key/valuables pocket
- Great for overnight trips or to hold gym clothes
- Many interior pockets to keep stuff organized
- Can be worn as a crossbody, hand carry, or tote bag
- I wish it came in larger sizes for week-long trips
Baggallini’s stylish Soho backpack chicly holds gear for an overnight trip or carries valuable items you don’t want to stow in checked luggage.
Get it here: Baggallini Soho Backpack
Best lightweight travel backpack: Venture Pal 35L Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack
Venture Pal 35L Ultralight Lightweight Packable Foldable Travel Camping Hiking Outdoor Sports Backpack Daypack
If a travel backpack could knock one out of the park, it’s the Venture Pal. Over 200 people bought it this month alone, and it has over 16,000 reviews on Amazon. It’s one of the lightest travel backpacks that can store many items. This is one of the few backpacks that can go from traveling by plane to camping in the forest. Its main compartment has two separators, allowing you to pack to the max and be organized simultaneously.
Specifications:
- Materials: Ultra-light, tear- and water-resistant nylon
- Dimensions: 20.1 x 14.2 x 7.8 inches
- Capacity: 35L
- Weight: 0.31 kilograms
- Colors: Black, Orange, Orange/Navy, Army Green, Navy Blue, Green, Fuchsia, Royal Blue, and Purple Price at publish: $24.99 - $25.99
- Adjustable shoulder straps, sternum strap has an emergency whistle
- Folds flat when not in use
- Multiple interior and exterior compartments, two side mesh pockets for water bottles
- In some cases, the water-resistant coating cracks after years of use
- One reviewer mentioned that the straps aren’t comfortable for wide shoulders
This bag is a great bargain with a lifetime guarantee and warranty. The Venture Pal backpack can be used as a hiking day pack for travel or camping.
Get it here: Venture Pal 35L Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack
Best travel backpack for international travel: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Pack for Men
Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Pack for Men
Osprey has honed its reputation for creating outstanding long-haul travel backpacks among the digital nomad and gap year crowds. Virtually indestructible, it safely holds a 16-inch laptop and your worldly goods. The harness, back panel, and hip belts can be stowed away when unused. No need to carry a small bag for daytime excursions as it comes with a detachable daypack with a lockable laptop/tablet sleeve. It can be used as a domestic flight carry-on item. Simply detach the daypack, place it under the seat, and stow the main pack in the overhead compartment. Shopping tip: Osprey also made our lists for the best backpacks for college and high school , best lightweight luggage , and best laptop backpacks .
- Materials: Bluesign® approved 450D recycled twist dobby polyester, PFAS-free DWR
- Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
- Capacity: 55L
- Weight: 4.234 pounds
- Colors: Gopher Green, Muted Space Blue, Black, Tunnel Vision Gray
- Price at Publish: $220
- The sternum strap comes with an emergency whistle
- Internal compression straps keep items in place
- External gear attachment loops
- Their “All Mighty Guarantee” covers damages and defects
- Its size makes maneuvering down narrow streets difficult, according to reviews
- Only good for long trips
With Osprey’s “All Mighty Guarantee” that covers damages and defects, this backpack is a great investment for long-term travel.
Get it here: Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Pack for Men
Best travel backpack on Amazon: BAGSMART Compression Travel Backpack
BAGSMART Compression Travel Backpack, 40L Expandable Airline Approved Carry On Backpack with Packing Cubes, Water Resistant Weekender Backpack Fits 17 Inch laptop, Luggage Daypack with Shoe Bag, Grey
BAGSMART makes packing easy as its travel backpack has two packing cubes and a shoe bag. It unzips like a suitcase, and just like a suitcase, it has compression straps to keep items in place. With multiple inner and outer zippered compartments, you can organize everything. Designed for comfort, the travel backpack has ergonomically designed adjustable straps and breathable back padding.
- Materials: Water-resistant polyester Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.2 x 10.23 inches
- Capacity: Expands from 25L to 40L Weight: 2.21 pounds
- Colors: Beige, Obsidian Black, Gray, Purple
- Price at publish: $39.99
- The padded compartment holds a 17.3” laptop
- Zippered compartment designed to hold folders, business papers, or a book
- The shoe bag fits two pairs of shoes
- The removable chest buckle can be misplaced Some buyers felt that the water bottle pocket could be deeper
Bagsmart’s travel backpack expands from 25L to 40L, making it a great choice for business and leisure travelers—and it includes packing cubes and a shoe bag.
Get it here: BAGSMART Compression Travel Backpack
Best stylish travel backpack: Ghurka Blazer No. 78
Ghurka Blazer No. 78
Fans of the quiet luxury trend will swoon over Ghurka’s chic leather backpack. The soft, supple leather is as strong as it is beautiful. This travel backpack is lined in cotton twill and has an interior key ring. It holds a laptop or documents securely in its snap-closure sleeve.
Specifications
- Materials: Vintage leather, cotton twill
- Dimensions: 12 x 15 x 6.25 inches
- Capacity: N/A
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Colors: Chestnut, Black, Khaki Twill Vintage Chestnut, Walnut, Tan
- Price at Publish: $1725
- Exquisite craftsmanship
- IYKYK (If you know, you know) status symbol
- Two front tabbed pockets, two side open pockets
- Adjustable straps
- Cinch top closure
- Can only hold two days of clothing
- Rather pricey
The bottom line
If you’re looking for a luxe bag for a quick trip or as a companion to your suitcase, this is the bag.
Get it here: Ghurka Blazer No. 78
Best travel backpack for organization: Nomatic Travel Backpack
Nomatic Travel Backpack
This is your travel backpack for those who dream about being organized and those who are organized (lucky people). It has dedicated compartments for everything. That includes a waterproof internal water bottle zippered spot, places for electronics, passports, wallets, laptops, and everything you need for any type of trip. It can be configured into a duffel bag .
- Materials: Water-resistant tarpaulin made with nylon/polyester interior, polyester/PU foam interior, and YKK zippers
- Dimensions: 9 x 19 x 13 inches
- Capacity: 30L
- Weight: 3.27 pounds
- Color: Black
- Price at publish: $279.99
- Tablet and laptop sleeves are easily accessible
- Ventilated shoe pocket that can hold two pairs of men’s or women’s shoes
- Spacious main interior compartment
- Holds a 14-inch laptop and 12-inch tablet
- Removable waist straps
- Designed for short trips; if you need more room, go up to their 40L model
Get it here: Nomatic Travel Backpack
Best affordable large travel backpack: SHRRADOO Extra Large Travel Backpack
SHRRADOO Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port, College Backpack Airline Approved Business Work Bag Fit 17 Inch Laptops for Men Women,Black
This oversized travel backpack is great for long trips or those who hate leaving stuff at home. It’s light for its size, has multiple compartments, will hold a 17-inch laptop, and has an external USB charging port for your phone. Just supply your power bank. It is designed with an easy-access front zippered compartment, open-top pockets, a mesh zippered pocket, and a key ring.
- Materials: Water-resistant nylon, lined in nylon
- Dimensions: 19.5 x 15 x 11 inches
- Capacity: 52L
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
- Colors: Black, Blue/Black, Gray/Black, Purple/Black, Red/Black
- Price at publish: $27.99 - $32.99
- Breathable mesh straps and a U-shaped back ventilation system
- Built-in combination lock for laptop compartment
- 20 pockets of varying sizes
- Three main compartments that have hidden pockets
What we don’t like:
- No waist or chest belt
- Buyers complained of the external USB charging port wires disconnecting but stated it’s easy to fix
Buyers state that the travel backpack is a workhorse and indestructible.
Get it here:
Most comfortable backpack for travel: Briggs & Riley HTA Large Cargo Backpack
Briggs & Riley HTA Large Cargo Backpack
This sleekly tailored travel backpack was made for comfort. The back has extra lumbar support with aerated mesh-backed antimicrobial padding, and the adjustable straps are also thickly padded. Created from recycled water bottles, the durable nylon fabric is weather-resistant. Add a dash of personal style with a complimentary monogram.
- Materials: Recycled poly/nylon ballistic
- Dimensions: 18.5 x 14 x 8 inches
- Capacity: 22.66L
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
- Colors: Forest Green, Black
- Price at publish: $329
- Self-repairing zippers
- Padded laptop compartment holds a 17-inch laptop
- RFID blocking front pocket
- Multiple exterior zippered compartments and a hidden back security pocket
- Lifetime guarantee
- It’s a bit pricey for a bag that can only be used for short trips.
Thoughtfully designed and gentle on your spine, this travel backpack has a compartment built like a mini-desk: spots for pens, papers, and notebooks—making it good for a daily commute or a quick trip away from home.
Get it here: Briggs & Riley HTA Large Cargo Backpack
Best backpacking bag for carry-on: FENGDONG 40L Waterproof Camping Backpack
FENGDONG 40L Waterproof Lightweight Hiking,Camping,Travel Backpack for Men Women (Green)
Heading off to Coachella, the forest of a big city, this large-capacity travel backpack is waterproof and has multiple compartments. Ergonomically designed with adjustable straps, and a padded back panel, it can hold 40 pounds worth of stuff, yet weighs a little under two pounds.
- Materials: Tear-resistant, water-resistant, anti-abrasion polyester
- Dimensions: 20.5 x 13 x 7.1 inches
- Capacity: 40L
- Weight: 1.9 pounds
- Colors: Blue, Black, Green, Camo, Orange, Purple, Blue Leaf, Dark Green, Yellow
- Price at publish: $33.99
- Three zippered compartments, two mesh side pockets, two waist strap pockets
- External reinforced port for headphones or cell phone (bring your charger)
- One buyer mentioned that they fit a softball bat into it
- No-questions-asked refund policy
- While buyers liked the roomy design, a few had issues with tight zippers
This travel backpack is sturdy enough to use for camping trips.
Get it here: FENGDONG 40L Waterproof Camping Backpack
Best travel backpack for parents: Ivy Cove Genesis Diaper Backpack
Ivy Cove Genesis Diaper Backpack
It’s not easy traveling with little ones. Hands-free luggage can be a lifesaver while corralling a toddler through an airport, but not if you also have to haul a diaper bag on your shoulder, too. Ivy Cove’s diaper backpack saves the day when on the road—while the handles look like a traditional tote, two back straps allow you to easily carry it on your back. The roomy outer pocket can store picture books or small toys.
- Material: 100% cotton-coated canvas, leather handle, and 100% polyester with PVC backing (interior)
- Dimensions: 17 x 17 x 6 inches
- Weight: 1 pound
- Color: Cobalt/Brown
- Price at publish: $268
- Lined to prevent leakage
- Interior zippered pockets
- Large main outer pocket, two side pockets
- Adjustable webbed backpack straps
- It’s a bit pricey but can be a lifesaver on the road
It’s a sleek-looking convertible diaper backpack that will be useful after the potty training stage.
Best designer travel backpack: Longchamp Le Pliage Recycled Nylon Canvas Backpack
Longchamp Le Pliage Recycled Nylon Canvas Backpack in Cognac at Nordstrom
Stay on-trend while protecting your valuables on the road with this stylish and eco-friendly designer backpack. When traveling, it can hold valuables, like a passport, wallet, and other necessities. Once at your destination, it can be folded away or used as a day bag.
- Materials: Recycled nylon with leather trim, water-resistant lining
- Dimensions: 11 x 10.25 x 4 inches
- Weight: 0.6 pounds
- Colors: Cognac, Navy, Cornflower, Graphite, Black, Tomato, Forest, Bilberry
- Price at publish: $140
- Zip top closure with snap flap
- Top carry handle
- Adjustable canvas backpack straps
- Interior pocket
- Holds a tablet
- Can only carry one change of clothes
Buyers liked its durability and its ability to hold essentials while traveling chicly
Get it here: Longchamp Le Pliage Recycled Nylon Canvas Backpack
Best travel backpack that does everything: Able Carry Max Backpack
Able Carry Max Backpack
This travel backpack is compartment city. Each is cleverly designed to lie flush and not create a bulky look. There are two main compartments: one for clothes and the other for work-related things: padded laptop and tablet sleeves and lots of slots to hold office things. There are more zippered compartments on the top, at the sides, and in the front. The front zippered compartment has a detachable key ring. A side zippered compartment can stow a bottle of champagne, thermos, or water bottle. It’s like a mobile office and clothing storage unit in one travel backpack.
- Materials: X-Pac and Cordura 1000D, 420 Ripstop nylon (lining), Duraflex buckles, YKK zippers
- Dimensions: 20.4 x 12.6 x 7.9 inches
- Capacity: Total 30L (main compartment 25L, work compartment: 5L)
- Weight: 3.8 pounds
- Colors: Tarmac Black, Ocean Blue, Earth Green
- Price at Publish: $278
- Thick shoulder support and padded, adjustable straps
- Back ventilated pads
- Magnetic chest straps
- Best for short trips or commuting
Buyers rave about its sturdiness and Able Carry offers a two-week test run—try it for 14 days and if it doesn’t work for your needs, return it.
Get it here: Able Carry Max Backpack
Best travel backpack for long journeys: Nols Expedition Pack
Nols Expedition Pack
Designed for long wilderness treks, this huge travel backpack has lightweight aluminum, shapeable stays, and straps that can be adjusted 12 ways to create the perfect fit. There are two outside pockets on the lid of this top-loading backpack. It’s the ideal place to store snacks.
- Material: Nylon
- Dimensions: N/A Capacity: 80 + 10L
- Weight: 5.63 pounds
- Color: Glacial Blue
- Price at publish: $277.99
- Hydration system compatible
- Dual drawstring top closure
- Two ice ax store loops
- It’s huge and this must be a checked baggage item.
If you’re an avid outdoors person, this backpack will accompany you through all terrain.
How to pack a backpack for travel
McCarthy kindly explained the best way to pack a travel backpack. He suggested placing the heavier items (shoes or boots) at the bottom of the bag. To make room for all your clothes, roll them instead of folding them. Rolling clothes will maximize space in the travel backpack. Any items needed for traveling should be placed on the top of the backpack or in separate, easy-to-reach compartments. Place water bottles and chargers in exterior pockets to use while moving.
How we chose the best travel backpacks
I picked the best travel backpacks based on a few factors: personal experience, buyer reviews, and brand reputation.
With very few exceptions, most travel backpacks on this list are unisex. Whenever I used a new travel backpack, I noted how it fulfilled my needs. Below are the criteria for judging whether a travel backpack could withstand hard travel.
One of the most important factors when choosing a travel backpack. Look for backpacks that have solid construction. Inspect it to ensure that stress points are reinforced and check the seams to see if they’re tightly sewn and appropriately finished. Test the various closures (snaps, buttons, zippers, etc.) and see how easy or difficult they work. A travel backpack material should feel sturdy and robust. It shouldn’t thin out if it’s overstuffed. In other words, does the material feel like it would break if you added one extra item to the backpack, or does it hold securely?
When choosing a travel backpack, be mindful of the backpack’s initial weight. Each airline has a domestic and international weight limit for carry-on items, which includes travel backpacks.
Domestic Airlines:
- Frontier: 35 pounds for any carry-on item
- Jet Blue: No weight limit
- Southwest Airlines: No weight limit
- United Airlines: Unpublished weight limit
- Hawaiian Airlines: 25 pounds
- Delta Airlines: None
International airlines:
- Aer Lingus: 22 pounds
- AeroMexico: 22 pounds
- Air Canada: None
- Air France: 26.4 pounds
- All Nippon Airways: 22 pounds
- British Airways: 51 pounds
It’s best to contact the airline you’ll be using to find out their weight restrictions.
Another reason to consider a travel backpack’s weight is comfort. Because you’ll carry it on your back, you want it not to impede your movement or cause discomfort. A heavy empty backpack will be heavier when packed; it can cause shoulder and back issues.
Whether long or short-haul travel, look for a bag that is designed to keep the traveler feeling comfortable no matter what they’re doing. Choose travel backpacks with a mesh ventilated back—mesh keeps the back cool and does not allow sweat to pool on the skin.
All travel backpacks should have padded, adjustable shoulder straps. Larger-sized backpacks should come with a padded sternum and a padded hip belt. Padded belts help provide stability. Travel backpacks should also have easy-to-use closures.
Ease of use
Travel backpacks with multiple pockets and compartments help keep you organized on your trip. There are travel backpacks with separate document compartments with slots for passports, wallets, phones, and items that you need to grab quickly when you’re on the go.
If you’re packing shoes, look for travel backpacks with separate shoe compartments.
While some travelers prefer a top-loading backpack, a clamshell or side-zippered backpack is more accessible to pack and easier to organize and find items.
A padded laptop compartment is a must if traveling with a tablet, laptop, or both. The padding will secure them and prevent any damage while traveling.
To prevent theft, choose a travel backpack that has RFID shielding pockets. Another good security feature is hidden pockets and compartments on the front or back of the backpack. Sturdy, tear-resistant materials prevent pickpockets from slashing the backpack when traveling.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Why choose a travel backpack over a suitcase when traveling.
I prefer traveling with a backpack over a suitcase for many reasons. The main one is cost. American Airlines recently raised their check bag fee from $30 to $40. The average checked baggage fee for domestic airlines is $40 and $75 for international flights. Most airlines don’t charge a carry-on fee. And since most travel backpacks will fit within the size parameters of a carry-on, it’s a win-win situation to use a travel backpack as your carry-on luggage .
It’s wiser to fly with a travel backpack because of security or the lack of it. We’ve all heard horror stories about luggage being lost en route, broken into, or destroyed while flying. I stuff my valuables into my travel backpack, take it with me on the plane, and relax while flying.
When I flew to a destination wedding, I had to use a suitcase to pack outfits for all the events. My travel backpack held my jewelry, laptop, makeup bag filled with necessities, and clothing change in case something went wrong with my luggage. Yes, I overthink and over plan for any contingency. However, if something went south, I could enjoy myself until my luggage arrived.
Lastly, does anyone enjoy waiting for luggage to arrive on the carousel? No one. With a travel backpack, you exit the airport in seconds, grab a taxi, and your vacation starts immediately. Everything is more accessible when your luggage is securely attached to your back.
What is a travel backpack?
Travel backpacks are designed to complement a suitcase or be used in place of one. They are considered carry-on items by airlines. Travel backpacks are sturdier than regular backpacks and contain more storage space than regular backpacks.
Are travel backpacks carry-on friendly?
More travelers are choosing travel backpacks as their carry-on bag of choice. Many travel backpacks are designed to fit under the seat or in the overhead cabin. As long as the travel backpack’s size fits the airline's requirements for a carry-on, traveling with a backpack will be carry-on friendly.
What size travel backpack do I need?
For a weekend trip, use a 20 to 25L backpack. For a weeklong trip, go up a size to a 35 to 40L backpack. If a destination wedding or many activities happen during the week or two-week trip, try a bigger backpack that’s 40 to 50L. The bigger the bag, the more compartments.
What features should I look for in a travel backpack?
For any travel backpack, whether long or short-haul, look for a bag with padded straps and a padded and ventilated back. Larger-sized backpacks should come with a padded sternum and a padded hip belt. The padded belts provide stability. A good feature to have in travel backpacks is compartments with RFID shielding. If taking a laptop or tablet, ensure the backpack has a secure, padded compartment explicitly designed for the device. Travel backpacks with multiple pockets and compartments help keep you organized on your trip. If you’re packing shoes, look for travel backpacks with separate shoe compartments.
What type of backpack should I choose? Front-loading or top-loading design?
Front-loading backpacks are designed like a suitcase. It’s easy to find any item that you’ve packed. Top-loading backpacks can hold more stuff, but you may need to unpack it to find one item. It comes down to personal preference.
What’s the best material for a backpack?
Look for backpacks that have reinforced stitching, especially in stress areas. Look for sturdy zippers, and a good option is zippers that lock. Most backpacks are made with durable, non-tear, water-resistant, heavy-duty nylon, polyester, Cordura, or a combination of those materials.
Do travel backpacks have security features?
Many backpacks have secret or hidden compartments to keep essential items safe and lockable zippers. Many travel backpacks have at least one compartment that has RFID shielding.
Can I use a travel backpack for hiking or camping?
There are multi-use travel backpacks that are designed for both travel and camping. Looking over the list of the best travel backpacks, you’ll notice a few are also good for the great outdoors.
Can I use a backpacking backpack as a carry-on?
When choosing a travel backpack as a carry-on item for flying, it’s not so much the type of backpack; it’s more the size of it. Most airlines use the same size regulations for any kind of carry-on bag. As long as the backpack fits between 22” x 14” x 9” for domestic flights and 21.5” x 15.5” x 9” for international flights, you can use it as a carry-on item. So, if you own a backpacking backpack that fits that size parameter, you can bring it on the plane.
What size backpack is best for long-haul travel?
There are travel backpacks that are designed explicitly for multiple-month trips. Digital nomads and those who plan to spend a season traveling opt for 50 to 70L backpacks. The larger-sized travel backpacks are designed to hold everything needed for long trips.
How do I fit a travel backpack?
Before traveling, try on the backpack and adjust the shoulder straps. Take a moment to check the fit of the sternum and hip belts. If they’re too loose or too tight, take the time to adjust the straps.
How do I clean a travel backpack?
It’s best to read the care tag on the backpack before washing it. Most travel backpacks can be cleaned with soap and a moist cloth. Some backpacks can be washed in a machine.
What is the largest backpack allowed on a plane?
The largest backpack that’s allowed as a carry-on item is 22” x 14” x 9” for domestic flights and 21.5 “ x 15.5” x 9” for international flights.
The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.
Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
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The 9 Very Best Pieces of Rolling Luggage
“it has survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones.”.
In this article
Best rolling luggage overall.
- Best less expensive
- Best for frequent fliers
- Best mixed material
- Best aluminum
- Best for overpackers
Best rolling-luggage set
- Best soft-side
Although I cover all kinds of luggage in my reporting as a travel writer , when it comes to personal preference, it’s rolling luggage all the way. Whether I go for two or four wheels, I want my luggage to glide with me through the airport (and beyond, as much as possible.) And the best rolling luggage has to have easy-to-organize compartments, sturdy handles, and plenty of space — while also being made of truly resilient material to endure baggage handling (it’s the type of luggage that I use as a checked bag).
Over the past few years, I’ve tested a dozen or so pieces of rolling luggage. From stretchy nylon cases with warranties that last a lifetime to bash-resistant plastic luggage that I can use to charge my phone, I’ve learned that I prefer a hardside case over a softside, and that a compression divider (I’m an overpacker) is nonnegotiable for me. My favorite — the Away carry-on — ticks all these boxes. While some pieces may cost more than others, I’ve also learned that if you’re not fussy about the type of plastics used (ABS costs less than polycarbonate but can withstand some real rattling in transit), there are bargains to be found.
Read on for my recommendations, as well as the expertise of the most well-traveled people I know, from travel writers to those that have to fly almost weekly for work. (And if you’re looking for other types of luggage, you can read my guide to the best carry-ons , weekenders , and I’ve also written an explainer here on what counts as a personal item .)
What we’re looking for
Hard-shell vs. soft-side.
Most experts I spoke to prefer hard-shell luggage, and I agree. It’s durable and easy to clean, it protects your clothes if it rains, and it’s harder for bedbugs to penetrate if you encounter any on your trip. The hard-shells on this list are made from either ABS, an inexpensive but less durable plastic; polycarbonate, a more durable but also lightweight material; or aluminum, which is slightly heavier, but the most durable. Most on this list are polycarbonate, but there are a few soft-sided pieces too, for those who haven’t made the switch yet. While they aren’t as durable, “from a repair standpoint, we always feel that the canvas soft-sided luggage is better than the hard-side luggage because you can repair canvas,” Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods, a repair shop in Manhattan, says. He’s an authorized repairman for many of the luggage brands below and says someone comes in with a cracked hard-shell every day and “there’s no repairing them at all.” So in addition to soft-side suitcases being fixable, they’re also overpacking-friendly because you can stuff more in them than a rigid polycarbonate case (and finesse a larger carry-on to fit in an overhead bin, too.)
Our experts continuously raved about the wheels on their favorite suitcases, describing them as smooth and sturdy. Most were talking about their four spinner wheels, which make the suitcase much easier to push along as it can glide in all directions. For comfort and ease of use, four wheels is definitely the way to go and is our recommendation, but again, Pecorella says it’s not the best choice from a repair standpoint. “It is always stronger to have the case that has the two wheels on it,” he says. “Those wheels are encased, so the only thing that can really happen on those wheels is that they wear out eventually like tires on your car.” With the four spinners — which Pecorella fully admits to using personally — he says because they aren’t encased and just are attached to the bottom of the suitcase, you run the risk of them being banged off. “If you’re rolling off a curb or if you hit the escalator too hard, it’ll just snap the wheel right off,” he says. “That’s one of the biggest repairs we do here all day.” However, a good warranty should cover this (more on that below.)
Almost none of the suitcases on this list go the easy-repair route of being soft-side and having two wheels, and that’s because they all have pretty good warranties. The biggest phrase you want to avoid is “limited to manufacturer’s defects,” which Pecorella says means they basically cover nothing and will attribute damage to wear and tear, or say it’s your fault or the airline’s fault. “Lifetime warranty” is ideal, and he says most of them offer it.
If you’ve checked an overweight bag before, you’ll know how much those extra charges can sting. Lightweight suitcases are ideal for overpackers — including myself — so I’ve included each case’s weight when empty.
Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 7.4 pounds
I’ve recommended Away’s suitcases many times before (they’re my top pick for carry-on luggage and hardside luggage , and they get an honorable mention in my piece on the best weekenders ). For me, the wheels are a stand out: I’m used to tentatively hauling my suitcases up and down my cobbly London road, but the Away can truly take a battering — and when it meets flat surfaces, it glides. Although the bigger carry on has a 50-liter capacity, it still fits in most overhead bins, and is perfect for a longer trip. Kelly Farber , founder of KF Literary Scouting, took only this on a three-week, seven-city business trip, and said, “That thing just would not quit.” I tested the slightly smaller carry on, simply because I live in Europe, where airlines are much stingier about carry-on allowances. No matter what size you get, though, each one features the same desirable qualities our experts and I were looking for in a modern suitcase. “It’s sturdy but light, and has a USB charger so I can charge my phone just enough to order an Uber,” writer and photographer Nicholas Gill said. “Plus, inside it has a nylon bag where I can toss in my clothes after getting caught in a sudden jungle downpour, which always seems to happen.” Stephanie Be from TravelBreak.net and BUENA also calls out the “TSA-approved lock, 360-degree wheels, tough hardware, and sleek design.” Strategist editor Maxine Builder also has experience with the Away warranty, after her internal zipper broke in 2019: “There was a fair bit of back-and-forth over the next four months, but I ended up with a replacement suitcase in exactly the same limited-edition colorway with the same hand-painted monogram, all for free.” Five years later, she’s still traveling with it. (The Away lifetime warranty doesn’t extend to the removable portable charger in the rear of the case — that’s only covered for two years.)
Best less expensive rolling luggage
Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited ten year | Weight: 7.9 pounds
Usually, cheaper hardside suitcases are made from ABS, a less durable plastic than the polycarbonate more expensive brands use. That’s why this case is such a rarity: It costs less than $200 (usually far less, as it’s often on sale), and it’s made from the more durable polycarbonate. It also includes all of the features I’d expect from more expensive brands, like four 365-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks, and a built-in USB port to use with a power bank. Travel blogger Courtney Vondran told me that “it’s a great option for budget travelers or first-timer carry-on travelers who want nice pieces for more affordable prices,” and I’d have to agree. So far, Vondran has taken her case with her on “road trips throughout the Midwest, a work trip to Egypt, vacation to L.A. , travel conference in Memphis, romantic getaway to Maine,” — and it’s all been protected by the case’s limited ten-year warranty, which covers any major damages beyond reasonable wear and tear.
Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited warranty | Weight: 7.3 pounds
This AmazonBasics case is made from the less-durable plastic ABS, but it’s still one of my favorites. In my experience, it’s rare to find a case that costs under $100 that can compete with more expensive brands. As it is made from a cheaper plastic, I was surprised by how thick and sturdy the suitcase feels — it has a nice thud when you knock against the exterior. As well as being thick, the exterior is also scratch resistant , and the case also has a well-designed handle, smoothly rolling wheels, handles for comfort, and a built-in lock. The warranty is where this bag falls slightly short, though (and may explain the cheaper price tag): it’s only a three-year limited warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship — which Pecorella says is the type to avoid.
Best rolling luggage for frequent fliers
Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Five -year manufacturer’s guarantee | Weight: 7.1 pounds
The Rimowa Essential line of suitcases comes in a very close second to the Away. More than ten people mentioned the brand, but I ultimately didn’t award it the top spot because of the price. But if you have the money, those who recommend it say it’s worth it. It comes in 11 colors and two finishes and works like a dream, according to owners, almost all of whom praise the wheels. “I won’t pretend to understand all the physics behind the bearings and axles on Rimowa’s bags, but I do know they spin amazingly well through the airport,” Summer Hull, director of travel content at the Points Guy , told me. Fellow travel writer Hillary Eaton also told me she had no problem lugging the case on a 48-hour journey from Vancouver to Machu Picchu by “tiny floatplane, three long-haul flights, a five-hour bus, and a two-hour train ride.” Several owners told me how easy it is to get this suitcase repaired if anything goes wrong. However, while there’s a manufacturer’s guarantee of five years, it only applies if you remember to register your product when you purchase it. Otherwise, it only lasts for two.
Best rolling luggage with mixed materials
Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 7.9 pounds
I was introduced to July by Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell: she calls it the “the Away of the Down Under.” And while the July Carry-on offers a lot of the same features as the Away, it has the added perk of a USB-C port so you can charge your iPhone or your laptop straight from the bag. July’s smallest carry-on weighs about half as much as Away’s, even though they both have similar liter capacities, and you can personalize it. This particular case sets itself apart with a removable fabric front pocket, which came in handy for Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl who is generally a fan of soft-side luggage. If you’re traveling for work, everything you need is easily accessible, and instead of digging through your bag to remove your laptop at TSA, you can easily just snap this pouch off instead.
Best aluminum rolling luggage
Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Aluminum hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 10.1 pounds
Aluminum cases are as tough as they come: unlike with plastic cases, you don’t need to worry about them cracking and spilling all your belongings. They often have the added security of a clamp rather than a zip, which again is less likely to burst. This case comes from Away and has all the same specs as my favorite case overall, though it’s slightly heavier, so you may have to pack a bit lighter if you’re checking it in. Despite this, travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon says there’s plenty of space for all the essentials she’d need for a three- or four-day trip. Swede White, who works for Amazon and has to travel monthly for his job, told me the only downside to this case is that he finds it scuffs easily. Away acknowledges that this will happen, alluding to it as developing a patina over time — if you prefer a pristine case, it all boils down to personal taste.
Best rolling luggage for overpackers
Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 8.36 pounds
If, like me, you can’t travel without taking your entire closet, Béis’s luggage is for you. By unzipping an internal section, the bag expands by up to three inches — meaning you can shove that extra sweater inside. More stuff means a heavier bag, but Béis’s built-in weight-limit indicator ensures you don’t teeter over the 50-pound weight restriction for many checked bags. A red mark will appear if the luggage is over, which should save you some stress and money at the check-in counter. As well as a water-resistant zipper, travel blogger HeyCiara told me she appreciates how the case also has a TSA lock, a handle with ergonomic support, and a built-in laundry and shoe bag to prevent your clothes from getting soiled.
Material: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Lifetime | Weight: Various
If you’re traveling as a family, a set of luggage can be the most efficient and economic way to go. This suitcase set has accompanied Strategist senior editor Ailbhe Malone’s family on trips for two years. Aside from having everything you would expect from a great quality suitcase — “smooth wheels, extremely comfortable handle, more than enough space,” Malone says — these cases are eminently easy to store. That’s because they slot inside one another, meaning you can stash a whole family’s worth of luggage in the space of a single suitcase. The polycarbonate cases come in a range of 11 pleasing colors, and thanks to their construction, any scratches or scuffs will appear as the same shade as the case, no matter how deep. For bigger concerns, the set comes with a lifetime warranty, which covers the wheels, handles, and shells.
Best soft-side rolling luggage
Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Nylon soft-side | Compression strap | Wheels: Encased wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 5.4 pounds
From a repair standpoint, this suitcase is a dream. It’s made from easy-to-repair nylon and has just two encased wheels that won’t snap off. It expands up to two inches and has multiple compartments. None of this is groundbreaking, but that’s why I like this bag: It’s simple, effective, and on the less expensive side at under $200. TripSavvy ’s former general manager Molly Fergus told me she’s traveled with the bag across Miami, Cancun, and all over Europe: “It’s survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones,” she says. Travelpro’s limited lifetime guarantee covers defects to the wheels, zippers, extension handles, and carrying handles, and this lasts for however long you own it. On top of that, for the first year, your product is backed by its Trusted Companion Promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline and covers the shipping cost for any product that needs to be shipped to one of its repair facilities.
Some more rolling luggage we’ve written about
Our experts
• Alexandra Baackes, travel blogger and founder of Wander Woman Retreats • Stephanie Be, founder of BUENA and blog Travel Break • Gabby Beckford , travel blogger • Kiana Brooks , luxury fashion buyer • Maxine Builder , Strategist editor • Hillary Eaton , food and travel writer • Kelly Farber, founder of KF Literary Scouting • Molly Fergus, former general manager of TripSavvy • Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief • Nicholas Gill , writer and photographer • Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , travel writer • Summer Hull, director of travel content at The Points Guy • Jessie Hyman , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Ciara Johnson, travel blogger HeyCiara • Brian Kelly, The Points Guy • Ailbhe Malone , Strategist senior editor • Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel and lifestyle brand Black Tomato • Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods • Laura Ratliff , travel writer • Robin Reetz, writer and VP of marketing at Rag & Bone • Lauren Ro, Strategist writer • Alex Sanchez , consumer marketing manager at G Adventures • Chris Schalkx, co-founder of Rice/Potato • Jane Stoller , author of Decluttering for Dummies • Courtney Vondran , travel writer • Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl • Swede White, principal content strategist at Amazon Web Services
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The 15 Best Travel Bags For Every Type Of Trip
The 15 best travel bags for every type of trip — from slings to weekenders, more from travel, r29 original series.
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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COMMENTS
We spent six months testing 22 bags and flying across the country with all of our picks. In the end, we chose two as our top picks: the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for most trips) and the larger Peak ...
Salt Lake City-based outdoor gear brand Cotopaxi builds brightly colored clothing and accessories to last. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with ...
Best for Business Travel: Nomatic Travel Bag at Amazon ($290) Jump to Review. Best Multi-use: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L at Amazon ($300) Jump to Review. Most Comfortable: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L at Topodesigns.com ($229) Jump to Review.
Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack. $36 at Amazon. The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluates backpacks both in Lab and with consumer testers for durability and comfort. From the best laptop ...
Tumi Celina Backpack. $475 at tumi.com. 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 ...
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 ...
It sustained minor denting during testing, and the handle is somewhat short and felt a little loose. The carry-ons we tested ranged in weight from about 13 pounds down to 4.36 pounds. Weighing ...
Stubble & Co Adventure Bag - Best Carry On For Minimalists. Tropicfeel Shell - Best Organised Carry On Backpack. Osprey Sojourn 45L - Best Backpack Suitcase Hybrid. WANDRD PRVKE 31 - Best Carry on Camera Backpack. Kodiak 30L Weekender Duffel - Best Leather Carry on Bag. The Tortuga Travel Backpack - great for carry on.
Our pick for the best carry-on luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite. Our pick for the best hard-sided carry-on luggage: Away The Carry-On. Budget pick: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Spinner. Upgrade ...
Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel. $220 from REI. $220 from Osprey. The Osprey Fairview 55 and the nearly ...
Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel: Peak Design Travel Bag. Best Carry-On Backpack for Women: Cotopaxi Allpa 35. Best Carry-On Backpack for Men: Aer Travel Pack 3. Best Carry-On Wheeled Backpack: Osprey Sojourn. Best Carry-On Backpack for Europe: Minaal Carry-On 2.0.
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 ...
Away F.A.R Backpack 26L. Away. Away's got another versatile take on a backpack with its F.A.R. bag. Underscored Senior Travel Editor Emily McNutt swears by this bag, thanks to its multi-use ...
Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-On Luggage. Jump to features and expert insights ↓. Best for Business Travel: Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner - 20.4 Inch ...
Editor's Note. TPG received complimentary backpacks from Arlo Skye, Away, Briggs & Riley and Solo for test purposes. 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 ...
Dimensions: 51 x 30 x 19cm | 20 x 12 x 7.5 inches (with the shoe compartment stowed) Expandable — The Shell Backpack by Tropicfeel is expandable from 22 to 42 litres. Although, when fully expanded, you won't be able to use the shoe pouch as this adds 9cm to the overall height, making the bag too tall for hand luggage.
The 19 Best Cooling Comforters For Hot Sleepers, Vetted By PureWow Editors. The 10 Best Patio Umbrellas with Lights to Make Your Backyard Feel Magical. Here are the 12 best travel backpack carry-on options according to PureWow editors and reviews, from adventure-ready 45L bags to stylish minis.
For example, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is incredible and costs $185. I've used one for many years — they're truly built to last. Cotopaxi Allpa is another great example of an affordable yet highly reliable pack. $200 - $300. The sweet spot for a high-quality pack with premium features and materials.
Quick Answer: These are the Best Travel Backpacks of 2024. #1 Nomatic 40L Travel Bag - The Best Overall Backpack. #2 Tropicfeel Shell - Best Organised Travel Backpack. #3 Osprey Aether Plus 70L - Best Long Term Travel Backpack for Men (Large) #4 Osprey Farpoint 40L - Best Travel Backpack (Carry on) #5 Osprey Aura 50L - Best Long Term ...
Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries. These are the best luggage brands, from budget to luxury picks, based on lab ...
FENGDONG 40L Waterproof Lightweight Hiking,Camping,Travel Backpack for Men Women (Green) amazon. $39.99$33.99. Heading off to Coachella, the forest of a big city, this large-capacity travel ...
Best soft-side rolling luggage. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Expandable Upright Luggage. From $170. Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Nylon soft-side | Compression strap | Wheels: Encased ...
13% Off Samsonite Andante 2 Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag. The Type: Wheeled duffel. The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 2,024 reviews on Amazon. What Travelers Say: "I was gifted a lot of clothing on a ...
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 ...
Each passenger may carry one standard piece of luggage and one small item of hand luggage (for example a handbag or laptop). If you have additional or extra large baggage or sporting equipment, select from the options below: Extra bag (max 20kg per unit) +-Extra baggage (max. 30kg / unit) +-Snowboard +-Bicycle (max 20kg/unit) +-Golf Bag (max ...
This Elektrostal Moscow oblast flag is wind- and weather-resistant and highly durable. The flag colors are intensive and UV-resistant. This flag is specially made for outskirt area.Recommended height of flag poleElektrostal Moscow oblast flags of 2.16m² | 23sqft | 120x180cm | 4x6ft look best with flagpoles of around 6m | 18ft height.
Find the travel option that best suits you. The cheapest way to get from Elektrostal to Moscow costs only RUB 119, and the quickest way takes just 39 mins. Find the travel option that best suits you. Rome2Rio uses cookies to help personalize content and show you personalised ads.
Central PPK operates a train from Ryazan' 2 to Ippodrom once daily. Tickets cost RUB 310 - RUB 450 and the journey takes 2h 44m. Alternatively, Asian Express operates a bus from Ryazan Bus station to Moscow Kotelniki Bus Station once a week, and the journey takes 3h 40m. 8 (800) 775-00-00. central-ppk.ru.