10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The MATEIN Weekender Backpack is designed for travelers who need a versatile and spacious carry-on option. It boasts a large capacity with an expandable feature, allowing up to 45L of storage space, which is ideal for packing cubes, clothes, and other travel essentials. This makes it suitable for weekend travelers and occasional vacationers. The backpack meets carry-on size requirements for several airlines, making it convenient for international travel.

Its convertible design includes hideaway padded shoulder straps, transforming it from a backpack to a briefcase, and a luggage strap for easier handling on trips. Weighing only 1.87 pounds, it is lightweight and features adjustable shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel for enhanced comfort during extended use. Multiple compartments, including a front pocket and internal compression straps, help organize and secure items, while external compression straps minimize movement inside the bag.

Made of water-resistant polyester with sturdy zippers and durable stitching, it is built for durability and can withstand various conditions. However, the large size and capacity might be excessive for those who prefer a more compact option. Additionally, the lack of more specialized compartments may not suit everyone’s needs. Its dimensions (19*13*8 inches) may also be cumbersome for smaller overhead bins, despite claims of fitting standard carry-on sizes.

The TUMI Alpha Brief Pack is a travel carry-on backpack designed with business travelers in mind. Its size is compact with dimensions of 3.15 x 4.72 x 6.69 inches, making it easy to fit into overhead compartments or under seats. Weighing in at 3.5 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and should be manageable even when fully packed. The backpack is made from durable ballistic nylon, which is known for its resistance to wear and tear, ensuring it withstands the rigors of frequent travel. Additionally, the black leather finish adds a touch of elegance and professionalism, making it suitable for business environments.

The backpack features a padded adjustable straps for enhanced comfort during long periods of wear. It includes a dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment, a tablet pocket, and multiple other pockets to organize your essentials efficiently. This organizational feature is particularly useful for frequent flyers who need quick access to their items. The fabric sleeve designed to secure the backpack over carry-on luggage handles further enhances its travel convenience.

On the downside, the pack’s capacity is somewhat limited at 15 liters, which might restrict how much you can carry. Some users might find the weight slightly heavy when compared to other carry-on options. However, the TUMI Alpha Brief Pack’s strengths in durability, organization, and professional appearance make it an excellent choice for business travelers who require a reliable and stylish carry-on backpack. The bag's limited warranty coverage also provides added peace of mind regarding its quality and longevity.

The Osprey Daylite 44L Carry-On Travel Pack is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a lightweight and durable backpack. Weighing just 1.22 kilograms (2.68 pounds), it’s designed to be easy on the back while providing ample storage with a 44-liter capacity. Its size allows it to be the largest carry-on permitted by many airlines, making it a great option for short trips or as an additional bag for longer travels. The bag includes TSA-friendly access for a 16-inch laptop, which is a big plus for business travelers or students on the go.

One of its standout features is the AirScape backpanel and shoulder straps, which enhance comfort during extended wear. This is especially beneficial for those who may need to carry their backpack for longer periods, whether navigating through an airport or exploring a new city. The single main compartment keeps things straightforward, though users looking for more organizational pockets might find it somewhat limiting.

While the bag is durable and designed for travel, the lack of multiple compartments may not meet the needs of those who prefer to have their items more segmented or easily accessible. Additionally, though it is constructed from up-spec’d materials, the reliance on a single compartment might lead to challenges in maintaining organization, particularly for longer trips. The Osprey Daylite 44L is a solid choice for travelers who prioritize comfort and ease of use over extensive organization. It’s especially suitable for light packers and those who appreciate a straightforward approach to carry-on luggage, but users with a need for more compartments and organization may want to explore other options.