Ditch the checked baggage fees and airport carousel stress. A carry-on backpack is your ticket to seamless travel, offering the freedom to navigate airports and destinations with ease. Imagine breezing through security, keeping your essentials close, and landing ready to explore – all thanks to the perfect travel companion strapped to your back. Whether you’re planning a whirlwind weekend escape or an extended backpacking adventure, the right carry-on backpack can revolutionize your travel experience. These versatile bags are designed to hold everything you need for a week-long trip (depending on your packing style and destination), blending practicality with comfort and convenience.
At Travels.edu.vn, our mission is to equip you with the knowledge and gear to travel smarter. We understand the importance of reliable luggage, and that’s why we’ve rigorously tested a vast selection of carry-on backpacks to bring you the very best. In our dedicated New York City lab, we put 90 different carry-on backpacks through a series of demanding trials, simulating real-world travel scenarios with our custom airplane set – complete with genuine aircraft seats and overhead bins. But our testing didn’t stop there. We then took these backpacks on the road for six months of real-world travel, evaluating their performance across diverse trips and conditions. The result? A curated list of top-performing carry-on backpacks that stand out for their quality, functionality, and travel-friendliness.
Why Trust My Expertise
Hi, I’m Anna Popp, Associate Editor at Travel + Leisure and now contributing my expertise to Travels.edu.vn. Since 2022, I’ve been hands-on in every carry-on backpack test we’ve conducted, personally evaluating over 50 bags. I even rely on two backpacks from this very list for my own travels, including our top pick for best overall. Through extensive testing and personal experience, I’m confident that we’ve identified the ideal carry-on backpack for every type of traveler, ensuring your next journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Our Top Carry-On Backpack Picks
Navigating the world of carry-on backpacks can be overwhelming, with countless options promising the best travel experience. To simplify your search, we’ve categorized our top recommendations based on specific travel needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize space, organization, security, or weather resistance, our expert-tested guide will help you find the perfect carry-on backpack to elevate your travels.
Best Overall:
Cotopaxi Travel Pack at Amazon $240
Best for Extended Trips:
Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L at Away Travel $220
Best with Packing Cubes:
Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack at Amazon $34
Best Expandable Option:
Nomatic Travel Pack at Amazon $280
Best for Anti-Theft:
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL at Amazon $290
Best Compression Backpack:
Tropicfeel Shell Backpack at Amazon $239
Best for Organization:
Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L at Backcountry $199
Best Waterproof Carry-On:
Tortuga Travel Backpack at Tortugabackpacks.com $350
Best Pocket Design:
Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack at Calpaktravel.com
Best for Photography Enthusiasts:
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L at Amazon $300
Best Overall
Cotopaxi Travel Pack
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PHOTO: Cotopaxi
$240 $226 at Amazon $250 at REI $250 at Backcountry
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Durable, spacious, and water-resistant, ensuring your belongings stay protected and organized.
- Comfortable to carry even when fully loaded, thanks to excellent weight distribution.
What to Consider
- Its larger size (42L) may not fit under all airplane seats and is primarily designed for overhead bin storage.
Overview
Cotopaxi, a brand celebrated for its commitment to sustainable practices and vibrant outdoor gear, consistently ranks among our favorite backpack brands. We’ve long praised the Allpa 35L Travel Pack, previously our top overall pick. However, the newly upgraded 42L Travel Pack has claimed the top spot as our best overall carry-on backpack. The increased capacity and enhanced features make it an even more compelling choice for travelers. Cotopaxi’s August 2024 refresh of the Allpa line introduced more robust materials, improved weight distribution, and thoughtful additions like air mesh shoulder straps for enhanced breathability, a luggage pass-through strap for convenient airport navigation, and an exterior stretch water bottle pocket for easy hydration on the go.
During my personal testing of this backpack in the Travel + Leisure lab, I was particularly impressed by the design enhancements over the 35-liter model. The 42L offers more traveler-centric features. While it is a substantial backpack and might be too large or weighty for some, I found it remarkably manageable to carry. The supportive straps and redesigned hip belt contribute to comfortable carrying, and the backpack’s maneuverability through airports surpasses that of wheeled suitcases. While internal organization could be slightly improved with a few more pockets, I effortlessly packed enough clothing for a five-day trip with extra room available.
The pack features a suitcase-style clamshell opening, revealing a spacious interior with a large zippered mesh compartment on one side and two smaller zippered pockets on the other, ideal for organized packing. A medium-sized zippered pocket on the front adds easily accessible storage, along with a small, top zippered pocket for essentials like passports or phones. The rear of the backpack houses a padded laptop compartment with a divider, accommodating multiple devices securely. While not designed for daily use due to its size, the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack proves exceptionally versatile for flights, business trips, camping excursions, road trips, and various other adventures.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 42 liters
- Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 11 inches
- Weight: 3.1 pounds
- Material: TPU-coated 1000D polyester, 840D ballistic nylon paneling
- Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to 15-inch laptops
- Water Resistance: Water-resistant
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best for Long Trips
Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L
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PHOTO: Away
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Exceptional comfort on shoulders and back, thanks to soft materials and generously cushioned shoulder straps.
- Impressively spacious, easily accommodating packing lists for extended trips.
What to Consider
- Its length (nearly 22 inches) might be overwhelming for travelers with shorter torsos.
Overview
Prepare to be surprised by the sheer capacity of the Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L. The main compartment’s clamshell opening provides effortless access, allowing us to pack a four-day itinerary with room to spare. This backpack is designed for organization, featuring numerous large compartments, compression straps to maximize space, and several pockets for neatly arranging clothing, travel gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter capacity can become heavy when fully packed, the plush, padded shoulder straps offer excellent support, maintaining comfort even during long walks. Additionally, convenient duffel handles provide an alternative carrying style when you need a break from backpack mode.
This backpack also excels in device protection, featuring a heavily padded laptop sleeve that shielded our test laptop flawlessly when subjected to drop tests from counter height. The bag’s fabric showed no signs of wear and tear, resisting rips and scuffs throughout our rigorous testing. Constructed from water- and abrasion-resistant materials, the Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is an ideal companion for frequent travelers seeking a stylish, durable backpack capable of transitioning seamlessly from urban exploration to outdoor adventures like camping.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 45 liters
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches
- Weight: 3.32 pounds
- Material: Recycled polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to 16-inch laptops
- Water Resistance: Water-resistant
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
Best With Packing Cubes
Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack
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PHOTO: Amazon
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Exceptionally spacious and includes three packing cubes for superior organization during travels.
- Budget-friendly without compromising on key features and durability.
What to Consider
- After extended use (six months), the bag may show scuff marks and noticeable scratches.
Overview
The Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice functionality or comfort. This backpack impressed us with its thoughtful packing features and comfortable carry. We found the internal and external compression straps particularly useful, creating extra packing space and enhancing organization. A standout feature is the inclusion of three packing cubes (small, medium, and large), significantly aiding in organized packing. We also appreciate the inclusion of both a suitcase strap and a horizontal handle, offering versatile carrying options. Inside, the backpack features retaining straps and a dedicated laptop sleeve, securing your belongings and electronics efficiently.
While the design might not have the premium aesthetic of higher-end brands, it competently includes essential features like a laptop sleeve and water bottle holder. The versatility to carry the Asenlin as a backpack, briefcase-style, or to slide it onto a rolling suitcase handle via the trolley sleeve is highly practical. However, a wider adjustment range for the chest strap would improve comfort for a broader range of users. During durability tests, the backpack withstood typical travel wear without scuffing or damage. For travelers seeking a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack without breaking the bank, this budget-friendly option delivers exceptional value.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
- Material: Polyester
- Laptop Pocket: Fits up to 17-inch laptops
- Included: 3 Packing Cubes
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
The 13 Most Durable Backpacks for Every Adventure, Tested and Reviewed
Best Expandable
Nomatic Travel Pack
PHOTO: Amazon
$280 at Amazon View on Nomatic.com
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Expandable zippers increase capacity by 10 liters, providing versatile packing options.
- Numerous pockets and compartments facilitate efficient organization of various travel items.
What to Consider
- The sheer number of pockets might feel excessive or unnecessary for some users.
Overview
The Nomatic Travel Pack stands out as an exceptionally versatile carry-on backpack, primarily due to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of packing space. This expandable feature makes it ideal for trips ranging from overnight stays to extended weekend getaways. The bag is thoughtfully designed with a wide array of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize everything from shoes and clothing to accessories and tech gadgets. While the initial number of interior pockets might seem overwhelming, travelers who appreciate meticulous organization will find features like the dedicated padded laptop sleeve, a protective sunglasses case, a discreet passport pocket, and an abundance of slip and zippered pockets within the main compartment incredibly useful.
Comfort is also a priority in the design of the Nomatic Travel Pack. The handles and padded shoulder straps ensure comfortable carrying, and the backpack’s overall small-to-medium size keeps it from feeling bulky or cumbersome, even when fully packed. Throughout our four-month testing period, which included various international trips, the bag maintained a like-new appearance, despite being subjected to rough handling and being frequently stowed under airplane seats. Its durable construction and smart organization make it a top choice for travelers seeking flexibility and resilience in a carry-on backpack.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters)
- Dimensions: 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches
- Weight: 4.16 pounds
- Material: Nylon and polyester
- Laptop Pocket: Fits up to 14-inch laptops
- Expandable: Yes, via zippers
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao
Best Anti-theft
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL
PHOTO: Pacsafe
$290 at Amazon $290 at REI $290 at Backcountry
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Packed with anti-theft features, including locking zippers and a wire-reinforced inner layer for enhanced security.
- Spacious 45-liter capacity, suitable for carry-on use while providing ample room for belongings.
What to Consider
- Some anti-theft features may require a learning curve to fully understand and utilize effectively.
Overview
After recent in-depth testing of anti-theft backpacks, we selected the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL as our top carry-on recommendation. With a generous 45-liter capacity, this backpack is designed to replace a traditional carry-on suitcase, offering superior protection for your valuables. It’s equipped with an RFID-blocking pocket to safeguard digital information, lockable zippers to deter theft, and slash-proof fabric to prevent bag tampering. The clamshell compartment opens wide like a suitcase, and during our tests, it easily accommodated our entire packing list with extra space available. While it incorporates numerous internal pockets for organization, the security features are the most compelling aspect of this backpack. The primary zipper pulls are designed to lock together using a built-in padlock system. Although it took us a moment to master the locking mechanism, this feature significantly enhances security by preventing opportunistic theft.
The exterior of the backpack is crafted from recycled polyester with a water-repellent finish, combining sustainability with practicality. During our slash tests, while we could cut through the outer layers with a box cutter, a wire-reinforced inner layer effectively prevented complete penetration and damage to the contents inside. We also noted the strategic placement of the padded laptop sleeve on the inner side of the bag, adding an extra layer of protection. Importantly, the backpack straps proved to be slash-proof in our tests. Additionally, the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 includes a stainless steel cable for securing the backpack to stationary objects; however, we found this feature initially somewhat challenging to use. Despite being slightly bulky and heavy, the backpack remains comfortable to carry and offers a versatile, feature-rich solution for travelers prioritizing security without compromising on carry-on convenience.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 45 liters
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 13 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 3.97 pounds
- Material: 750D recycled polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to 16-inch laptops
- Anti-theft Features: RFID-blocking pocket, lockable zippers, slashproof fabric, secure attachment points
- Water Resistance: Water-resistant
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
Best Compression
Tropicfeel Shell Backpack
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PHOTO: Tropicfeel
$239 at Amazon View on Tropicfeel.com
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Adjustable straps and a removable, compressing wardrobe organizer offer exceptional size and packing flexibility.
- Versatile design suitable for both weekend trips and everyday use, adapting to various travel needs.
What to Consider
- The top handle’s comfort could be improved for extended hand-carrying.
Overview
The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack distinguishes itself with thoughtful features designed for diverse travelers. It can expand to a generous 42-liter capacity, accommodating clothing for weekend or week-long trips, while also compressing down to a 20-liter daypack for sightseeing or daily commutes. This adaptability makes it a truly versatile travel companion.
After six months of consistent use, we found the backpack remarkably sturdy and durable. Fitting our complete packing list was effortless, with ample space remaining thanks to adjustable buckled straps that allow for significant size modulation. The front buckle can be loosened to expand the roll-top opening, increasing capacity, and a kangaroo pouch at the backpack’s base adds 6 liters of segregated space, ideal for shoes or items you wish to keep separate. A padded compartment at the back securely fits laptops up to 17 inches, and the removable, compressing wardrobe organizer can be hung in a closet upon arrival at your destination, further enhancing organization.
We found the backpack comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, although achieving the desired buckle settings may require some initial adjustment. The Shell Backpack showed no signs of damage throughout testing, and its material is weatherproof, adding to its resilience. For travelers looking to further customize their backpack, Tropicfeel offers an organization system and accessory pouches available for purchase. If you need an all-encompassing travel backpack solution, the Shell Backpack’s versatility justifies its higher price point. As a bonus for eco-conscious travelers seeking a sustainable backpack, this backpack is constructed from 100 percent recycled nylon and 64 percent recycled polyester.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 20 to 42 liters (adjustable)
- Dimensions: 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 3.3 pounds
- Material: Recycled polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to 17-inch laptops
- Compression: Adjustable straps and wardrobe organizer
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
The Best Travel Organizers for Shoes, Jewelry, Tech, and More — Tested and Reviewed
Best Organization
Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
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PHOTO: Topo Designs
$199 at Backcountry $189 at Zappos View on Topodesigns.com
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Abundant pockets and a dedicated laptop compartment provide exceptional organizational capabilities.
- Durable, recycled nylon material ensures longevity and reduces environmental impact.
What to Consider
- Can feel heavy when fully packed, especially after extended periods of carrying.
Overview
Packing for a trip can often feel like a chore, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L simplifies and streamlines the process. We particularly appreciated the convenience of the padded compartment that securely stores laptops up to 15 inches, and the two front pockets that offer quick access to tablets or phone chargers. This backpack excels in organizational design, featuring a multitude of compartments and pockets that negate the need for packing cubes. It provides dedicated spaces for cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and various smaller items, ensuring everything has its place.
The adjustable shoulder straps, combined with chest and waist straps, effectively distribute the backpack’s weight, enhancing carrying comfort. However, during our long-term testing, we noted that the bag can become quite heavy when filled to capacity. Constructed from 100 percent recycled nylon, the material feels robust and durable, promising to maintain its condition over time. The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L is an excellent choice for travelers who prioritize organization and durability in a carry-on backpack.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 30 liters
- Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches
- Weight: 2.63 pounds
- Material: 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon
- Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to 15-inch laptops
- Organization: Numerous pockets and compartments
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best Waterproof
Tortuga Travel Backpack
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PHOTO: Tortuga
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Constructed from 100 percent recycled and waterproof material, providing superior protection in wet conditions.
- Spacious 40-liter capacity and clamshell design facilitate easy packing for extended trips.
What to Consider
- At over 4 pounds, it can feel heavy, especially when fully loaded for travel.
Overview
For travelers heading to rainy climates, the Tortuga Travel Backpack is an essential companion. This waterproof backpack is engineered to withstand wet conditions, crafted from Tortuga’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200, a “sailcloth” material, ensuring your belongings remain dry and protected from inclement weather. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack was essentially submerged in a puddle for hours, yet our gear and clothing inside remained completely dry. Cleaning was also effortless, requiring only a simple wipe down with a wet cloth.
With a generous 40-liter capacity, this backpack offers ample space for a week’s worth of clothing or more, efficiently organized within its two clamshell compartments. The split-design simplifies packing, allowing for a clear view of available space in each compartment. In addition to the main compartments, top, front, and side exterior pockets provide extra storage for a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and other items you need readily accessible during your travels. The Tortuga Travel Backpack combines robust waterproof protection with practical packing features, making it ideal for adventures in wet environments.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
- Material: Waterproof sailcloth (Shell200)
- Laptop Pocket: Fits up to 16-inch laptops
- Waterproof: Yes
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox
Best Pockets
Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack
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PHOTO: Calpak
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Features pockets within pockets, both inside and outside, offering exceptional organization for all items.
- Expandable water bottle holder and padded laptop sleeve add to its functional design.
What to Consider
- The glossy material tends to attract scuff marks, requiring occasional cleaning.
Overview
If you thrive on organization and appreciate having a designated space for everything, the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack is designed for you. This backpack is a pocket-lover’s dream, with a place for every item you can imagine. Despite its medium 26-liter capacity, it provides ample room for four to five days’ worth of clothing, thanks to its intelligently designed pocket system – a hallmark of Calpak luggage pieces.
“I used this as my carry-on for a four-day trip to Jackson Hole, and it was incredibly convenient for accessing essentials from the outer front pockets and quickly getting my laptop in and out at airport security,” notes T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco. “I also appreciate the water bottle pocket that zips away when not needed, yet securely holds a large water bottle.” The glossy, water-resistant material offers protection from light moisture, although we observed that it does pick up scuff marks, particularly after contact with surfaces like airport windows, but these are easily buffed out.
For comfortable long-distance carrying, the padded straps effectively cushion the shoulders, even when the pack is fully loaded. Side buckles and straps allow for compression, cinching the backpack tighter as needed. The backpack straps can also be tucked away, transforming the backpack into a duffel bag for over-the-shoulder carrying. As an owner of this bag myself, I often switch between backpack and duffel styles depending on my immediate needs, appreciating the versatility this design offers.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 26 liters
- Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 2.9 pounds
- Material: Recycled ripstop polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to 17-inch laptops
- Organization: Extensive pocket system, expandable water bottle holder
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
The 11 Best Convertible Bags, Tested and Reviewed
Best for Photographers
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
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PHOTO: REI
$300 at Amazon $300 at Backcountry View on Peakdesign.com
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Main compartment accessible from four different exterior zippers, offering unparalleled access.
- Expandable design and compatibility with camera cubes make it ideal for photographers and travelers with bulky gear.
What to Consider
- One of the pricier and heavier backpacks on our list, reflecting its premium features and robust build.
Overview
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is an expandable backpack crafted with photographers in mind, but its versatility extends to all travelers. The main compartment provides ample space, easily accommodating clothing for at least four days and proving particularly useful for packing bulkier items like jackets and shoes. Packing is streamlined and efficient thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps that securely hold contents in place. Designed with features akin to a dedicated camera bag, it’s compatible with camera cubes and offers four points of entry to the main compartment. This design allows for quick access to gear or clothing without fully unzipping the backpack, a boon for photographers needing to grab equipment on the go or travelers needing easy access to items during transit. It includes a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets suitable for water bottles or a camera tripod.
Despite its heavier build, Peak Design has maximized every inch of space in this backpack. Even the hip belt includes a small storage pocket and can be conveniently tucked away when not needed. Adjusting all straps is straightforward, ensuring balanced weight distribution and preventing discomfort. Constructed from weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the backpack demonstrated exceptional durability in our tests, showing no scuffs or damage even after being tossed onto the ground – exactly the resilience expected from a durable backpack. While the price point is higher, the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L justifies its cost with a wealth of traveler-centric features and stellar performance, suggesting it’s a long-term investment for serious travelers and photography enthusiasts.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 30 to 45 liters (expandable)
- Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches (22 x 13 x 11 inches when expanded)
- Weight: 4.8 pounds
- Material: Nylon and polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to 16-inch laptops
- Camera Ready: Compatible with Peak Design Camera Cubes
- Water Resistance: Water-resistant
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph
Best Value
Matein Travel Backpack
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PHOTO: Amazon
$51 $34 at Amazon View on Matein.com
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Pros & Cons
Why We Love It
- Multiple compartments for organized storage of clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories, maximizing packing efficiency.
- Exceptionally affordable, offering great value without compromising on essential features.
What to Consider
- Material quality feels somewhat lower compared to higher-end backpacks tested.
Overview
If you’re hesitant to invest in a premium carry-on backpack right away, the Matein Travel Backpack provides a functional and spacious option at an incredibly accessible price point (under $60). This 40-liter backpack features a large main compartment that easily accommodates several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case. A standout feature is the dedicated separate footwear compartment, which prevents shoe soles from contacting clean clothing and can even fit shoes up to size 12.
In addition to its main compartment and shoe storage, it includes a sizable laptop pocket and a front organizer pocket with designated slots for phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories prone to getting lost. While the overall material quality may not match pricier alternatives, the nylon fabric proved durable in our tests, resisting tears and scuffs. This suggests the Matein Travel Backpack offers a good lifespan, especially considering its budget-friendly price. For value-conscious travelers, it’s a practical and reliable carry-on option.
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Key Features
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 8 inches
- Weight: 2.2 pounds
- Material: Nylon
- Laptop Pocket: Fits up to 17-inch laptops
- Shoe Compartment: Separate compartment for shoes
- Water Resistance: Water-resistant
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Product Images
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao -
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PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked
While our primary list highlights the top performers, several other carry-on backpacks impressed us during testing but fell slightly short of our top recommendations for various reasons.
Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag Backpack: We appreciated the durability, comfort, and water resistance of this 35-liter backpack. It also includes a waterproof phone case that effectively protected our phone when submerged. However, the roll-top closure is lengthy and somewhat cumbersome, making packing less convenient compared to clamshell designs. We believe it’s better suited for outdoor adventures than as a primary carry-on for air travel.
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Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus: We liked the adjustable sternum and waist straps that can be neatly tucked away when not in use. However, we feel there are more compelling options available at a lower price point offering similar or superior features.
Amazon Basics Carry-on Travel Backpack: This backpack offered ample compartments for organization and felt durable. However, it lacked standout features that would elevate it above other backpacks in our tests.
Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L: This backpack successfully fit all our packing items and even fits under an airplane seat. However, our budget pick, the Asenlin, performed slightly better overall and is more affordable.
Our Testing Process
To ensure our recommendations are based on rigorous evaluation, we conducted carry-on backpack testing on more than seven separate occasions in our New York City lab. Our goal was to identify the best options from reputable luggage and backpack brands. For our most recent tests, we constructed a specialized airplane set, complete with a row of authentic airplane seats and an overhead storage bin, to simulate real flight conditions. To date, we have tested over 90 carry-on backpacks through a comprehensive series of trials assessing capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. Following our lab tests, we distributed the backpacks to Travels.edu.vn editors for real-world travel testing, gathering insights on their performance during actual trips. We continue to update this article with long-term testing feedback as it becomes available.
Our capacity testing began by packing each backpack with a standard set of items: three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, a toiletry bag, and a dummy laptop (if the backpack included a laptop sleeve). We noted any remaining space and evaluated the functionality of compartments for organizing packed items. Design assessments included evaluating how the bags open and close, the ease of use of zippers and buckles, and the practical design of each pocket and compartment.
Comfort was tested by having testers wear each packed backpack and walk around for 10 minutes, rating their comfort level. Top-scoring backpacks distributed weight evenly across the shoulders and hips, providing exceptional comfort.
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Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Durability was assessed by throwing the backpacks from a height of a few feet or off a countertop. Top-rated bags showed no signs of scuffs or tears after this rough handling, and the contents inside remained undamaged.
During lab testing, we remained unaware of each backpack’s price until testing was complete. This ensured unbiased value ratings, where top-performing bags were judged on whether their price fairly reflected their quality and performance, particularly for more expensive models. Following lab tests, the backpacks were deployed for real-world testing for up to six months, allowing us to evaluate their performance in actual travel scenarios, including airplane use.
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Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack
Consider Underseat vs. Overhead Bin Compatibility
Not all carry-on backpacks are designed to fit under an airplane seat. If underseat storage is your priority, we recommend checking the specific airline’s underseat dimension restrictions before traveling. Similarly, for overhead bin carry-on backpacks, verify the airline’s carry-on size limits to avoid potential gate-check fees if your bag exceeds these when fully packed.
Define Your Primary Use Case
It may seem obvious, but selecting the ideal travel backpack begins with identifying its primary function. For travelers who prioritize mobility and comfort while walking extensively, a smaller, lightweight backpack is preferable. For air travel, a compression backpack or one with excellent organization features is often a better choice, maximizing limited airline baggage space. If you are flying, you might also consider options with wheels, such as a rolling backpack, weekender, or duffel bag, for added convenience in airports.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How much can a carry-on backpack hold?
During our tests, we successfully packed three shirts, two pairs of pants, a jacket, shoes, and a toiletry bag into each backpack, often with extra space remaining. Many backpacks include a laptop compartment, but confirm this feature before purchasing. Also, check the laptop pocket’s dimensions to ensure it fits your device properly. To maximize packing capacity, consider using compression packing cubes. -
Are all carry-on backpacks airline-approved?
Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to exceed certain limits. Most product listings include a “specs” section detailing backpack dimensions. If you intend to store your bag under the seat, confirm it meets those specific dimensions when packed. -
Can I bring both a backpack and an additional carry-on bag on a plane?
Airline policies vary based on the airline, destination, and ticket class. Most airlines typically allow one carry-on item (for the overhead bin) plus a personal item (to fit under the seat). Both items must adhere to the airline’s size restrictions. Always check your specific airline’s carry-on policy before traveling.
Why Trust Travels.edu.vn
Associate editor Anna Popp, now contributing to Travels.edu.vn after extensive experience testing travel gear for T+L since spring 2022 in New York City, has personally tested over 50 backpacks featured in this guide, including models from Cotopaxi, Calpak, Peak Design, and Nomatic. Anna has relied on a Cotopaxi backpack for over four years, and its popularity in her family led to everyone acquiring the same bag.
The 14 Most Stylish Travel Backpacks
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Edited by Jackie Cucco
Jackie Cucco is a testing editor at Travel + Leisure, responsible for planning product tests and writing/editing travel-related product reviews based on in-depth testing. Her background includes experience as a travel agent, a journalism degree, and over eight years covering products and gift guides. She has made over 100 TV appearances discussing consumer products and shopping trends.
Updated by Anne Taylor
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Anne Taylor is an updates writer at Travel + Leisure, ensuring articles remain current and accurate. An avid traveler to 23 countries, she continuously tests new products to enhance her travel experiences. She holds a bachelor’s degree in news media and has over seven years of writing and editing experience.
