10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The Osprey Daylite Expandable 26+6 Travel Pack is a lightweight and durable choice for travelers seeking a versatile carry-on backpack. Weighing just 1.75 pounds, it is easy to carry without adding bulk, and its materials are designed to withstand frequent use. The pack starts with a 26-liter capacity but can expand by an additional 6 liters, providing extra space without worrying about airline size restrictions. Its size fits well as an international personal item, allowing it to be stored under the seat on most flights to avoid gate check hassles.

This backpack features one main compartment complemented by useful pockets, including two stretch water bottle holders and a front zip pocket for quick access to essentials. The padded AirScape back panel offers good ventilation and ergonomic support, helping keep your back comfortable during long travel days. While it has only a single main compartment, which might limit organization for those preferring many separate pockets, the included tech sleeve and luggage pass-through add convenience for travelers using rolling bags.

This backpack is well suited for travelers who prioritize lightweight comfort and flexible space within carry-on limits, especially for day trips or as an extra personal item on flights.

The Thule Aion Travel Backpack is a solid choice for travelers looking for a functional and stylish carry-on option. With a capacity of 40 liters, it offers ample space for personal items, making it ideal for short trips or as an additional bag for your travels. One of its standout features is the use of 100% recycled polyester and a durable water-resistant coating, which not only supports eco-friendly practices but also helps keep your belongings protected from the elements. The removable TPU rolltop bag allows for additional organization, helping users keep items separate and easily accessible. This is particularly useful for travelers who want to streamline their packing.

On the comfort front, the backpack is designed with padded storage that can accommodate a 15.6-inch laptop and a 12.9-inch tablet, ensuring your tech gear is safe during transit. However, the optional Thule Aion Sling Bag, sold separately for use as a hipbelt, might not be necessary for everyone and can add to the overall cost if you choose to purchase it.

While the Thule Aion Backpack has many strengths, it’s essential to consider its weight of 1215 grams (approximately 2.68 lbs). This might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially when fully packed. Additionally, the size dimensions (6.3 x 13.78 x 21.65 inches) are relatively standard, but could be a tight fit in some airline overhead compartments, depending on the specific airline regulations.

The Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack Pro is a solid choice for travelers who want a carry-on bag that can hold enough for a week or more without checking luggage. Its 40-liter capacity strikes a good balance between space and airline carry-on size limits (22 x 14 x 8 inches), making it suitable for most international and US flights. Weighing just over 2 kilograms (4.5 pounds), it’s relatively lightweight for its size, helping reduce strain while on the move. The backpack is made from tough, waterproof sailcloth with water-resistant zippers, so it should handle rough travel conditions and rain without damage.

Comfort is well thought out here: height-adjustable straps, thick padding, and a hip belt help distribute the weight away from your shoulders, which can be a big relief on longer walks or airport transits. The bag’s organization is another strong point. It opens like a suitcase from the front, making packing and unpacking easier than many traditional backpacks. Multiple compartments, including laptop and tablet sleeves, mesh pockets, water bottle holders, and hip belt pockets, provide convenient access and keep gear well organized.

One downside is that while the bag is large for a carry-on, very heavy packing might still feel bulky or cumbersome, especially if you prefer a lighter load. Also, the design leans toward a more minimalist, professional look, which may not appeal to those wanting flashy or highly colorful styles. This backpack is best suited for travelers who prioritize durability, comfort, and smart organization in a carry-on-sized bag, whether for work trips or leisure travel. It performs well in these areas but may not be the ideal choice for those seeking an ultra-lightweight or more casual backpack.