Ditch the hassle of checked baggage and cumbersome rolling suitcases. A carry-on backpack is your ideal travel companion, offering practicality, functionality, and freedom. Perfect for navigating airports, bustling city streets, or even venturing off the beaten path, the right travel backpack can hold a week’s worth of essentials, streamlining your international adventures. Whether you’re planning an extended backpacking trip across continents or a quick international weekend escape, a top-tier travel backpack will enhance your journey’s efficiency and enjoyment.
To find the best options, we rigorously evaluated 90 carry-on backpacks through seven comprehensive tests in our New York City lab. Our unique testing environment included a simulated airplane cabin, complete with actual seats and overhead bins. Following lab testing, we put each bag to the real-world test, using them on diverse trips for at least six months. Based on our extensive evaluations, these are our top recommendations for the best travel backpacks for international travel.
Why Trust Our Expertise
I’m Anna Popp, Associate Editor at Travel + Leisure. Since 2022, I’ve been deeply involved in every backpack test we’ve conducted, personally assessing over 50 bags. Having owned and extensively used two backpacks from this very list, including our top overall pick, I can confidently say we’ve identified the perfect carry-on backpack for every type of international traveler.
Our Top Picks for International Travel Backpacks
Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack
Best for Long Trips: Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L
Best With Packing Cubes: Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack
Best Expandable: Nomatic Travel Pack
Best Anti-theft: Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL
Best Compression: Tropicfeel Shell Backpack
Best Organization: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
Best Waterproof: Tortuga Travel Backpack
Best Pockets: Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack
Best for Photographers: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
Best Overall
Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack
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Photo: A vibrant Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack in a well-lit studio, showcasing its robust design and carry-on size, ideal for international travel.
Pros:
- Durable and water-resistant construction for diverse travel conditions.
- Spacious 42-liter capacity, suitable for extended international trips.
- Comfortable to carry even when fully loaded, enhancing travel experience.
Cons:
- Larger size may only fit in overhead bins on smaller aircraft, requiring careful consideration for underseat storage.
Overview:
Cotopaxi, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and vibrant outdoor gear, consistently ranks among our favorite backpack brands. While we previously lauded the Allpa 35L Travel Pack as our top choice, the updated 42L Travel Pack has claimed the best overall spot as the ultimate carry-on backpack for international travel. This upgrade, launched in August 2024, features enhanced durability, improved weight distribution, and traveler-friendly additions like breathable air mesh shoulder straps, a convenient luggage pass-through strap, and an external stretch water bottle pocket.
During my personal testing of this backpack in the Travel + Leisure lab, I found the design significantly improved over the 35-liter model. The 42L offers more practical features tailored for the modern traveler. Although it’s a substantial backpack that might seem large or heavy for some, I found it remarkably manageable due to the supportive straps and updated hip belt. Navigating airports is also noticeably easier compared to wheeling a traditional suitcase. While additional internal organization would be beneficial, I easily packed enough clothing for a five-day international trip with room to spare.
The pack’s clamshell design features a large zippered mesh compartment on one side and two smaller zippered pockets on the other. A medium-sized zippered front pocket and a smaller top zippered pocket provide quick access to essentials like passports or phones. The padded rear laptop compartment includes a divider, accommodating multiple devices. While not designed for daily use due to its size, the Allpa 42L is exceptionally versatile for international flights, business trips, camping, road trips, and more.
The Details:
- 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: 15-inch
- Water-Resistance: Water-resistant
Alt text: Traveler wearing the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack, demonstrating its comfortable fit and suitability as a carry-on for international journeys.
Alt text: Close-up of adjustable waist strap on the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack, highlighting ergonomic design for comfortable international travel.
Alt text: Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack being placed in an airplane overhead bin, illustrating its carry-on compliance for international flights.
Alt text: Open Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack ready for packing, showcasing its clamshell design and spacious interior suitable for international travel essentials.
Alt text: Packing clothes into the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack, demonstrating its ample storage capacity for clothing and gear needed for international trips.
Alt text: Hand opening a pocket on the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack, highlighting accessible storage for small items during international travel.
Alt text: Laptop being placed in the padded laptop compartment of the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack, showing secure storage for electronics during international travel.
Alt text: Water bottle being inserted into the stretchable water bottle pocket of the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack, emphasizing hydration convenience for international travelers.
Alt text: Adjusting straps on the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack, demonstrating customization options for optimal comfort during international travel.
Alt text: Securing a strap on the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L travel backpack, illustrating the bag’s design for secure and efficient international travel.
Best for Long Trips
Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L
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Photo: Sleek and modern Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L in mustard yellow, highlighting its spacious design and suitability for long international trips.
Pros:
- Exceptionally comfortable shoulder straps and back panel for extended wear during long international journeys.
- Generous 45-liter capacity, ideal for packing for longer international trips.
Cons:
- Extended length might be unsuitable for travelers with shorter torsos, requiring consideration for fit and comfort.
Overview:
The Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L will surprise you with its remarkable spaciousness. The main compartment’s clamshell opening allows easy access, effortlessly accommodating a four-day packing list with extra room. Multiple large compartments, compression straps, and pockets make organizing clothes, travel gear, and accessories ideal for international travel. While the 45-liter capacity can become heavy when fully packed, the padded shoulder straps offer excellent support and comfort for long walks, essential in international travel scenarios. Convenient duffel handles provide alternative carrying options to alleviate fatigue.
This backpack also boasts a well-cushioned laptop sleeve, safeguarding our test laptop even when subjected to drop tests from counter height. The bag displayed no rips, scuffs, or tears after rigorous testing. Its water and abrasion-resistant construction makes it perfect for avid international travelers seeking a versatile backpack for city explorations and outdoor adventures alike.
The Details:
- Capacity: 45 liters
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches
- Weight: 3.32 pounds
- Material: Recycled polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: 16-inch
- Water-Resistance: Water-resistant
Alt text: Away F.A.R. Convertible Backpack 45L fitting into an overhead compartment, demonstrating its carry-on size for international flights.
Alt text: Away F.A.R. Convertible Backpack 45L being placed under an airplane seat, illustrating its versatility for different storage options during international travel.
Alt text: Traveler wearing the Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L, showcasing its comfortable design and size appropriate for international air travel.
Alt text: Carrying the Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L by shoulder strap, highlighting ease of transport and versatile carry options for international travel.
Alt text: Examining a pocket on the Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L, showing its organizational features for efficient packing during international travel.
Best With Packing Cubes
Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack
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Photo: Affordable and functional Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack, emphasizing its value and inclusion of packing cubes for organized international travel.
Pros:
- Spacious 40L capacity with included packing cubes for optimal organization during international trips.
- Budget-friendly option without compromising essential features for travel.
Cons:
- Scuffing and scratches may appear after extended use, affecting the bag’s aesthetic appeal over time.
Overview:
The Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack is perfect for budget-conscious international travelers, impressing us with its organizational features and comfortable wear. Interior and exterior compression straps enhance packing capacity, while three included packing cubes (small, medium, large) provide exceptional organization. We also appreciate the suitcase strap and horizontal handle for versatile carrying options. Internal straps and a laptop sleeve secure items and electronics effectively.
While the design isn’t as premium as higher-end brands, it includes a laptop sleeve and water bottle holder. The Asenlin’s versatility extends to backpack, briefcase, and trolley sleeve modes. A wider chest strap adjustment range would improve comfort. Durability tests showed no scuffing or damage, making this budget-friendly backpack an excellent value for durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on for international travel.
The Details:
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
- Material: Polyester
- Laptop Pocket: 17-inch
Alt text: Asenlin 40L travel backpack showcasing its spacious main compartment and included packing cubes, essential for organized international travel packing.
Alt text: Multiple views of the Asenlin 40L travel backpack, highlighting its design features and carry-on size suitable for international travel.
Best Expandable
Nomatic Travel Pack
Photo: Versatile and expandable Nomatic Travel Pack, emphasizing its adaptability for different trip lengths and organized packing for international travel.
Pros:
- Expandable zippers increase capacity by 10 liters, providing versatility for varying trip lengths during international travel.
Cons:
- Excessive pockets might feel overwhelming for some users, potentially complicating organization rather than simplifying it.
Overview:
The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack for international travel, thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for overnight trips or long weekend international getaways, it features numerous pockets and compartments for efficient organization of shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the abundance of pockets may initially seem overwhelming, highly organized travelers will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discreet passport pocket, and various slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment.
Comfortable handles and padded shoulder straps make carrying easy, and its medium-to-small size prevents bulkiness or heaviness. After four months of international travel testing, the bag remained in excellent condition despite rough handling and being stowed under airplane seats.
The Details:
- 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: 14-inch
Alt text: Close-up view of the Nomatic Travel Pack, showcasing its sleek design and multiple compartments ideal for organized international travel.
Alt text: Expanding zipper feature of the Nomatic Travel Pack, demonstrating its expandable capacity for versatile packing during international travel.
Alt text: Dedicated sunglasses compartment in the Nomatic Travel Pack, emphasizing its thoughtful organization for international travel accessories.
Alt text: Padded laptop sleeve of the Nomatic Travel Pack, ensuring secure and protected transport of electronics during international travel.
Alt text: Clothes being packed into the Nomatic Travel Pack, demonstrating its capacity and organizational features for international travel essentials.
Alt text: Nomatic Travel Pack held by its handle, showcasing its versatile carrying options and compact design suitable for international travel.
Best Anti-theft
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL
Photo: Secure and feature-rich Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL, highlighting its anti-theft technology for worry-free international travel.
Pros:
- Advanced anti-theft features like locking zippers and wire-reinforced inner layer provide enhanced security for international travel.
Cons:
- Some anti-theft features may be initially complex to use, requiring a learning curve for full utilization.
Overview:
The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL is our top pick for anti-theft carry-on backpacks for international travel, following recent anti-theft backpack testing. With a generous 45-liter capacity, it replaces a standard carry-on, offering RFID-blocking pocket, lockable zippers, and slashproof fabric for superior security. The clamshell compartment packs like a suitcase, accommodating our entire packing list with extra space. Numerous internal pockets enhance organization, but the safety features are paramount. Main zipper pulls lock together with a built-in padlock, deterring opportunistic theft.
Constructed from recycled polyester with a water-repellent coating, the exterior is durable. While a box cutter could slash outer layers, a wire-reinforced inner layer prevented penetration and damage to contents. Slashproof straps and an interior padded laptop sleeve further protect valuables. A stainless steel cable secures the backpack to fixed objects, though initial use can be slightly challenging. Comfortable to wear, albeit a bit bulky and heavy, this versatile backpack is packed with smart anti-theft features for peace of mind during international travel.
The Details:
- Capacity: 45 liters
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 13 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 3.97 pounds
- Material: 750D recycled polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: 16-inch
- Water-Resistance: Water-resistant
Alt text: Traveler wearing the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, demonstrating its comfortable fit and discreet anti-theft design for international travel.
Alt text: Close-up of the slash-proof strap on the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, highlighting a key security feature for international travel.
Alt text: Adjusting the locking zipper mechanism on the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, showcasing its advanced security features for international travel.
Alt text: Slash-proof testing on the strap of the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, demonstrating its resistance to theft attempts during international travel.
Alt text: Packing travel items securely inside the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, emphasizing its spaciousness and security for international travel essentials.
Alt text: Slash-proof fabric testing on the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, confirming its protective layers for international travel security.
Alt text: RFID Safe tag on the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, highlighting its RFID-blocking pocket for secure international travel.
Alt text: Tablet being placed into the secure compartment of the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, illustrating protected storage for devices during international travel.
Alt text: Wallet being placed into the RFID-blocking pocket of the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, ensuring data protection for international travelers.
Alt text: Water bottle in the side pocket of the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, combining security with practical features for international travel.
Alt text: Tightening the waist strap of the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, demonstrating its adjustable comfort for secure international travel.
Best Compression
Tropicfeel Shell Backpack
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Photo: Innovative Tropicfeel Shell Backpack, showcasing its compression features and modular design for efficient international travel packing.
Pros:
- Adjustable straps and removable, compressing wardrobe organizer allow for customizable size and efficient packing for international travel.
Cons:
- Top handle comfort could be improved for easier carrying when not worn as a backpack, impacting handling convenience.
Overview:
The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack’s thoughtful features cater to diverse international travel needs. It expands from a 20-liter daypack to a 42-liter carry-on, suitable for weekend getaways or week-long international trips.
After six months of regular use, we found it exceptionally sturdy and durable. Packing was easy, with ample space thanks to adjustable buckled straps for size modification. A front buckle expands the roll-top opening, and a kangaroo pouch adds 6 liters for shoes or separate items. A padded 17-inch laptop compartment and removable, compressing wardrobe organizer enhance functionality.
Adjustable shoulder and waist straps ensure comfortable wear, though buckle adjustments may require some effort. The Shell Backpack showed no damage in testing and is weatherproof. Optional organization system and accessory pouches are available for upgrades. Its versatility and sustainable construction from recycled nylon and polyester justify the higher price, making it an excellent all-in-one backpack for eco-conscious international travelers.
The Details:
- Capacity: 20 to 42 liters
- Dimensions: 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 3.3 pounds
- Material: Recycled polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: 17-inch
Alt text: Tropicfeel Shell Backpack showcasing its adjustable straps and compression features, ideal for efficient international travel packing.
Alt text: Multiple views of the Tropicfeel Shell Backpack, highlighting its versatile design and carry-on compliance for international travel.
Alt text: Tropicfeel Shell Backpack with its wardrobe organizer, demonstrating its innovative packing system for organized international travel.
Best Organization
Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
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Photo: Well-organized Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L, emphasizing its numerous pockets and compartments for efficient international travel packing.
Pros:
- Abundant pockets and laptop compartment provide exceptional organization for belongings during international travel.
Cons:
- Can feel heavy when fully packed after extended use, requiring consideration for weight management on international trips.
Overview:
The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L simplifies packing for international travel, making it efficient and easy. A padded 15-inch laptop compartment and two front pockets offer convenient storage for tech and chargers. Numerous compartments and pockets provide ample organization for small items, cords, documents, and water bottles, eliminating the need for packing cubes.
Adjustable shoulder, chest, and waist straps distribute weight evenly for comfortable carrying, though full packing can make it feel heavy. The 100 percent recycled nylon material ensures durability.
The Details:
- 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: 15-inch
Alt text: Traveler wearing the Topo Designs Global Travel Pack, showcasing its comfortable fit and practical size for international travel.
Alt text: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L displayed, highlighting its design and organizational features suitable for international travel.
Best Waterproof
Tortuga Travel Backpack
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Photo: Rugged and waterproof Tortuga Travel Backpack, emphasizing its weather protection for international travel in diverse climates.
Pros:
- 100 percent recycled and waterproof material protects belongings in wet conditions during international travel.
Cons:
- Heavier weight when fully packed, potentially causing discomfort during extended carrying on international trips.
Overview:
For rainy international destinations, the Tortuga Travel Backpack offers essential waterproof protection. Made from 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 “sailcloth” material, it shields belongings from the elements. During a rainy camping trip, sitting in a puddle for hours, it kept gear dry and cleaned easily with a wet cloth.
The spacious 40-liter capacity accommodates a week’s worth of clothing in two clamshell compartments. The split design simplifies packing, showing available space on each side. Exterior pockets store laptops, accessories, and water bottles for easy access during international travel.
The Details:
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
- Material: Waterproof sailcloth
- Laptop Pocket: 16-inch
- Water-Resistance: Waterproof
Alt text: Traveler wearing the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L outdoors, showcasing its durable and weather-ready design for international travel.
Alt text: Close-up of the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L, highlighting its waterproof material and construction for reliable protection on international travels.
Alt text: Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L on an outdoor table, emphasizing its robust design and waterproof features for international travel in various conditions.
Best Pockets
Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack
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Photo: Pocket-rich Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack, showcasing its organizational capacity for efficient international travel packing.
Pros:
- Numerous pockets inside and outside, including an expandable water bottle holder and padded laptop sleeve, offer extensive organization for international travel.
Cons:
- Glossy material susceptible to scuff marks, potentially affecting the bag’s appearance over time, especially with frequent international travel.
Overview:
The Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack is ideal for pocket enthusiasts, offering a pocket for everything. Despite its medium 26-liter capacity, it fits four to five days of clothing due to its organizational design, a hallmark of Calpak luggage.
“I used this as my carry-on for a four-day Jackson Hole trip, easily accessing necessities from front pockets and quickly getting my laptop in and out at security,” says T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco. “The expandable water bottle pocket is great, and the glossy, water-resistant material is practical.” Scuff marks buffed out easily.
Padded straps ensure comfortable carrying, and compression straps tighten the pack. Backpack straps tuck away for duffel bag carry. Versatile and organizational, it’s perfect for international travel.
The Details:
- Capacity: 26 liters
- Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 2.9 pounds
- Material: Recycled ripstop polyester
- Laptop Sleeve: 17-inch
- Water-Resistance: Water-resistant
Alt text: Traveler wearing the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack, demonstrating its comfortable carry and stylish design for international travel.
Alt text: Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack fitting into an overhead compartment, showing its carry-on size for international flights.
Alt text: Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack fitting under an airplane seat, highlighting its compact design for versatile storage during international travel.
Alt text: Attaching a strap to the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack, demonstrating its convertible duffel-backpack functionality for international travel.
Alt text: Carrying the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack as a duffel, showcasing its alternative carry style for diverse international travel needs.
Alt text: Cell phone being placed in a pocket of the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack, highlighting its numerous organizational pockets for international travel essentials.
Alt text: Clothing being secured inside the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack, demonstrating its capacity and organizational features for international travel.
Best for Photographers
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
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Photo: Professional-grade Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, highlighting its camera-friendly features and expandability for photographer international travelers.
Pros:
- Multiple access points to the main compartment and compatibility with camera cubes make it ideal for photographers on international trips.
Cons:
- Higher price point and heavier weight compared to other backpacks may be a consideration for budget-conscious or lightweight international travelers.
Overview:
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is designed for photographers and international travelers, featuring an expandable main compartment spacious enough for four days of clothes and bulky items like jackets and shoes. A removable divider sleeve and compression straps secure packed items efficiently. Designed for photographers, it functions like a camera bag, accommodating camera cubes and offering four entry points to the main compartment for quick access to gear. It includes a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or tripods.
Despite its heavier weight, every space is utilized effectively, including a hip belt pocket that tucks away when not needed. Adjustable straps prevent imbalances and pinching. Weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon ensures durability. While expensive, its features and performance justify the cost for serious international travel photographers.
The Details:
- Capacity: 30 to 45 liters
- 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: 16-inch
- Water-Resistance: Water-resistant
Alt text: Peak Design Travel 45L Backpack showcasing its versatile design and capacity for both travel and photography gear on international trips.
Alt text: Multiple angles of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, highlighting its features and suitability for photographers during international travel.
Alt text: Different perspectives of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L, emphasizing its professional design and functionality for international travel photographers.
Best Value
Matein Travel Backpack
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Photo: Economical and functional Matein Travel Backpack 40L, emphasizing its affordability and value for budget international travel.
Pros:
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for international travelers seeking a functional carry-on backpack.
- Multiple compartments provide organization for clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories during international trips.
Cons:
- Material quality is lower compared to premium backpacks, potentially impacting long-term durability for frequent international travel.
Overview:
The Matein Travel Backpack offers a functional and spacious carry-on option under $60 for budget-conscious international travelers. The 40-liter backpack features a large main compartment accommodating several outfits and a toiletry case. A separate footwear compartment keeps shoes isolated from clean clothes, fitting up to size 12 shoes.
A large laptop pocket and front pocket with organizational slots for chargers and accessories enhance functionality. While material quality is lower than pricier bags, nylon fabric showed no tears or scuffs in durability tests, suggesting good lifespan.
The Details:
- Capacity: 40 liters
- Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 8 inches
- Weight: 2.2 pounds
- Material: Nylon
- Laptop Pocket: 17-inch
- Water-Resistance: Water-resistant
Alt text: Shoes being placed in the dedicated shoe compartment of the Matein Travel Backpack 40L, highlighting its practical separation feature for international travel packing.
Alt text: Clothes being packed into the Matein Travel Backpack 40L, demonstrating its capacity for clothing and essentials during international travel.
Alt text: Laptop being placed in the laptop compartment of the Matein Travel Backpack 40L, showing secure storage for electronics on international trips.
Alt text: Charger being placed in the front pocket of the Matein Travel Backpack 40L, highlighting its organizational features for accessories during international travel.
Alt text: Matein Travel Backpack 40L displayed on a shelf, showcasing its overall design and carry-on size suitable for international travel.
Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked
While many carry-on backpacks met our quality standards, some fell short of our top recommendations due to minor weaknesses discovered during testing.
Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag Backpack: Durable, comfortable, and water-resistant 35-liter backpack with a waterproof phone case. However, the cumbersome roll-top closure makes packing less convenient for carry-on use, better suited for outdoor travel than international air travel.
Alt text: Closing mechanism of the Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag Backpack, highlighting its roll-top closure system.
Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus: Adjustable sternum and waist straps that tuck away, but pricier than better-performing alternatives.
Amazon Basics Carry-on Travel Backpack: Organized compartments and durable material, but lacks standout features.
Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L: Spacious and fits under airplane seats, but budget pick Asenlin performed slightly better at a lower cost.
Our Testing Process
We conducted over seven separate tests in our New York City lab to identify the best carry-on backpacks for international travel from trusted luggage and backpack brands. Our latest tests used a custom-built airplane set with real seats and overhead bins. To date, we’ve evaluated over 90 carry-on backpacks, assessing capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. Following lab tests, T+L editors used backpacks on real-world travels for long-term insights.
Capacity tests involved packing three shirts, two pants, a jacket, shoes, and a toiletry bag, noting leftover space and compartment functionality. Design evaluation included assessing zippers, buckles, pocket functionality, and packability.
Comfort was rated by wearing backpacks for 10 minutes, noting weight distribution. Durability was tested by throwing bags from a height, checking for damage and content safety. Value was assessed unbiasedly, without price knowledge during lab testing. Real-world testing followed for up to six months to assess performance in actual international travel situations.
Alt text: Durability testing of a carry-on backpack, showing a bag being tossed in the air to assess impact resistance.
Alt text: Comfort testing of a carry-on backpack, showing a person carrying a bag to assess strap comfort and weight distribution.
Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack
Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags
Check airline underseat dimensions if underseat storage is preferred. Verify carry-on size restrictions to avoid fees for overhead bin bags.
Keep in mind what the bag will be used for
Consider primary use: smaller, lightweight backpacks for walking-intensive travel; compression or organizational bags for air travel to maximize limited baggage space. Consider rolling options like rolling backpacks, weekenders, or duffel bags for added convenience when flying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can fit in a carry-on backpack?
Our tests packed three shirts, two pants, a jacket, shoes, and a toiletry bag with extra space. Ensure a laptop compartment and check laptop pocket size. Use compression packing cubes for more capacity.
Are all carry-on backpacks airline-approved?
Size restrictions vary by airline. Check product specs for dimensions. Verify underseat fit when packed.
Can I bring a backpack and an additional carry-on bag onto the plane?
Typically, one carry-on (overhead bin) and one personal item (under seat) are allowed, both within airline size limits.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Since 2022, T+L Associate Editor Anna Popp has tested over 50 backpacks, including Cotopaxi, Calpak, Peak Design, and Nomatic bags. She has traveled with a Cotopaxi backpack for over four years.
The 14 Most Stylish Travel Backpacks
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Edited by Jackie Cucco
Jackie Cucco
Jackie Cucco is a testing editor at Travel + Leisure.
Updated by Anne Taylor
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Anne Taylor
Anne Taylor is an updates writer at Travel + Leisure.
