10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

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.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-on Weekender is a well-designed travel backpack that caters to both men and women, making it versatile for various users. One of its main strengths is the drop-bottom compartment, which provides additional packing space and helps keep items organized. This feature is particularly useful for travelers who need to separate clothes from other essentials, ensuring everything stays secure during transit. Additionally, the QuickSlip front pocket with magnetic closure is a thoughtful addition for quick access to mobile phones or boarding passes, which is great for convenience on the go.

Weighing just 2.2 lbs and measuring 15.75 in x 19 in x 9 in, this backpack is lightweight and compact, ideal for carry-on travel. The sizer bin testing means it fits the overhead bin space on most major US airlines, making it a practical choice for air travel.

In terms of material, the durable polyester fabric with a water-repellent coating is a plus, as it resists stains and offers some protection against the elements. The interior lining made from recycled materials reflects an eco-friendly approach, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers. The padded, adjustable shoulder strap adds comfort, making it easy to carry during long airport treks.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the backpack offers plenty of organization options, some users might find that the compartments could be more numerous or specifically designed for tech devices like laptops or tablets, which some travelers prioritize. Additionally, though the backpack is lightweight, it may not have as much padding as some users would prefer for protecting more fragile items.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 serves as a solid option for weekend trips and short getaways, particularly for those who value organization and convenience in a lightweight package, though it may have limitations in device-specific storage and padding.