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 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.

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.