10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The TUMI Alpha Bravo International 2 Wheeled Duffel Backpack Carry-On is a versatile travel bag designed for convenience. Its standout feature is the combination of a backpack and duffel bag with wheels, making it adaptable to various travel situations. The size, at 21.8 x 14.0 x 9.0 inches, provides a substantial 40-liter capacity, ideal for short to medium-length trips. It's crafted from durable, weather-resistant ballistic nylon, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of frequent travel while keeping your belongings secure.

Organizational features include interior tie-down straps and two zipper pockets, enhancing its practicality by keeping items organized and easily accessible. The weight, at 7.1 pounds, might be on the heavier side for a carry-on backpack, which could be a drawback for those prioritizing lightweight gear. Comfort-wise, its multiple carrying options—including wheels and backpack straps—offer flexibility, though it may not be as comfortable as dedicated backpacks when carried for extended periods.

Additionally, handy travel-smart features like a TSA-friendly lock and the TUMI Tracer add extra layers of convenience and security. This backpack is particularly suitable for travelers who value durability and versatility, but the weight and potentially higher price point could be deterrents for others.

The TUMI Alpha Bravo Navigation Backpack shines as an everyday travel backpack designed to meet the needs of commuters and travelers alike. Its dimensions of 16.0 x 14.0 x 7.3 inches provide a generous capacity of 265.98 cubic meters, offering ample space for your travel essentials. The backpack also features a zip expansion, making it highly adaptable to various packing needs. Weighing in at 2.8 pounds, it strikes a balance between sturdiness and portability, although it might be on the heavier side for some users when fully packed.

Comfort is well addressed with its padded mesh back panel and adjustable shoulder straps, ensuring a comfortable carry even during extended use. The inclusion of a padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 15” PC or 16” MacBook makes it a tech-friendly option, offering good protection for your devices. Durability is another strong point; as a TUMI product, it is expected to last, backed by a generous warranty (five years for most of its products).

The backpack is constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use. Organizational features are plentiful, with numerous zip pockets for easy access to smaller items. However, the hefty price tag typically associated with TUMI products might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. This backpack is highly suitable for professionals or frequent travelers who value durability, comfort, and organizational efficiency.

The Travelpro Altitude Large Expandable Travel Laptop Backpack is a versatile and durable carry-on backpack suitable for both men and women. With a capacity range of 30 to 36 liters, it offers ample space for travel essentials and an expansion feature that adds up to 20% more space when needed. The backpack is made from high-density ballistic ECOFAB material which is eco-friendly and water-resistant, ensuring long-term durability and protection from stains and scrapes. It features premium details like full-grain leather touch points and airline-grade aluminum hardware for added style and resilience.

The organizational features are impressive, with multiple compartments, padded sleeves for laptops up to 16 inches, a Travelpro ID TheftBlock pocket, and anti-theft pockets to keep your valuables secure. Comfort is well-addressed with padded airflow back panels and adjustable shoulder straps, along with aircraft-grade aluminum sternum straps to distribute weight and prevent shoulder strain. At 4 pounds, the backpack is relatively lightweight, considering its robust construction.

Additionally, the backpack comes with a lifetime warranty and a trusted companion promise, providing peace of mind for frequent travelers. One potential drawback is its weight of 5.61 pounds, which may be on the heavier side for some users. However, the comprehensive features and durable construction make it a strong contender for those needing a reliable and organizationally rich carry-on backpack.