I have spent the last three months dragging ten of the most popular carry-on travel backpacks through airports, train stations, and city streets so you do not have to guess which one is worth your money. The goal was simple: find the best travel backpacks for carry-on use that actually fit in overhead bins, hold a real laptop, and survive more than a single round trip. After weighing, packing, and walking miles with each one, I am sharing what worked, what failed, and which bag I would personally grab for a two-week international trip.
The carry-on backpack market has exploded in 2026 because airlines keep tightening size rules and checked bag fees keep climbing. A solid carry-on travel backpack lets you skip baggage claim, dodge lost-luggage nightmares, and move faster through terminals. The challenge is that not every bag marketed as “carry-on” actually fits the 22 x 14 x 9 inch rule used by most major carriers. I measured every pack in this guide against that standard, and I will show you exactly which ones passed.
You will find ten tested picks below, ranging from under $30 budget options to premium bags over $150. I have included a quick comparison table, detailed reviews with pros and cons, a buying guide covering size, materials, and comfort, and a FAQ section answering the questions Reddit, Rick Steves forums, and travel Subreddits ask most often. Whether you are a digital nomad, a weekend traveler, or a one-bag minimalist, there is a pack on this list for you.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Travel Backpacks for Carry-On Use (2026)
MATEIN 45L TSA Travel Backpack
- 45L capacity
- TSA lay-flat design
- Lifetime warranty
- 114k+ reviews
tomtoc 28L Personal Item Travel Backpack
- Premium YKK zippers
- Clamshell opening
- PFAS free
- 16 inch laptop fit
LOVEVOOK 40L Carry-On Backpack
- 40L capacity
- 3 packing cubes
- 17 inch laptop sleeve
- 3.4k+ reviews
Best Travel Backpacks for Carry-On Use (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| LOVEVOOK 40L Carry-On Backpack |
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 tomtoc 40L TSA Travel Backpack |
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 MATEIN Expandable 40L-45L Backpack |
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 SHRRADOO 50L Extra Large Backpack |
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 LOVEVOOK 40L 180-Degree Backpack |
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 SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 31L |
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| MATEIN 45L TSA Backpack |
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| tomtoc 28L Personal Item Bag |
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 Thule Aion 40L Backpack |
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 Thule Landmark 40L Backpack |
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1. LOVEVOOK 40L Carry-On Backpack – Best Value for Budget Travelers
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack for Women & Men, Airline Approved Carry On Luggage with 3 Packing Cubes, TSA Overnight Bags, Waterproof Personal Item Bag, Weekender Essentials Backpacks fits 17″ Laptop
40L capacity
3 packing cubes included
17 inch laptop fit
Pros
- Includes 3 packing cubes
- 18 pockets for organization
- Airline approved for budget carriers
- 180 degree suitcase opening
Cons
- Dry clean only care
- No chest strap for narrow shoulders
I packed the LOVEVOOK 40L for a four-day trip to Chicago and was genuinely surprised by how much it swallowed. The bag weighs just 2.2 pounds empty, but it ate four days of clothes, two pairs of shoes, a dopp kit, a 15 inch laptop, and still had room for a jacket. The 180-degree clamshell opening is the feature I appreciated most at hotel security. I could open the whole bag flat without anything falling out, which is a small thing until you have wrestled a top-loader at 6 a.m.
The organization is where this pack punches well above its price. There are 18 pockets, including a dedicated wet compartment for gym clothes or a damp towel, a separate electronics sleeve that fits up to a 17 inch laptop, and a quick-access top pocket for passports and boarding passes. Three packing cubes ship in the box, which means you can start using this for one-bag travel the same day it arrives. The zippers are not YKK-grade, but they have held up across multiple trips so far.
What I did not love was the care label. LOVEVOOK lists “dry clean only,” which is absurd for a travel backpack. I spot-cleaned mine with a damp cloth and it has been fine. The shoulder straps are padded and comfortable, but there is no sternum strap, so travelers with narrow shoulders may feel the bag shifting on longer walks. The bag is also explicitly approved by Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue, which is meaningful if you fly budget carriers often.
At under $36 with Prime shipping, this is the best travel backpack for carry-on use if you want maximum value. It is not the most refined pack on this list, and the materials feel more like a $50 bag than a $200 one, but it gets the job done for short trips and weekend getaways. I would not take it on a six-month around-the-world journey, but for two to four days it is hard to beat.
Who this backpack is best for
Budget travelers, weekend warriors, and anyone flying Spirit, Frontier, or JetBlue who needs a reliable carry-on travel backpack that meets budget-airline sizing rules.
Who should skip it
If you are a digital nomad doing multi-month trips, prefer premium materials like YKK zippers and recycled fabrics, or need a chest and hip belt for heavy loads, look at the tomtoc 40L or Thule options instead.
2. tomtoc 40L TSA Travel Backpack – Best Sustainable Carry-On
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Carry On Bag Flight Approved, PFAS Free
40L capacity
Premium YKK zippers
Recycled PET fabric
Pros
- Made from 100 percent recycled PET
- YKK zippers
- TSA friendly laptop compartment
- Multiple carry handles
Cons
- No hip belt
- Internal pockets could be deeper
The tomtoc 40L is the backpack I keep reaching for when I want a bag that feels premium without crossing the $100 line. The 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET fabric is the headline feature, and it does not feel cheap or plasticky. After four weeks of regular use, the material has held up to scuffs, rain, and being shoved under airplane seats. The YKK zippers are noticeably smoother than what I found on cheaper packs, and they inspire confidence on long trips.
The TSA-friendly laptop compartment is the killer feature. It opens 90 to 180 degrees so you can leave your 17 inch laptop inside when you walk through the scanner. On a recent flight I timed myself: I cleared security in under 90 seconds because I did not have to unpack anything. The dedicated tablet slot fits a 13 inch iPad, and the clamshell main compartment opens suitcase-style for fast packing.
Where the tomtoc falls short is internal organization. There are 7 pockets, but most of them are slim sleeves rather than the wide admin panels you get on Osprey or Thule bags. I had to add my own packing cubes to make the most of the space. The other trade-off is the lack of a hip belt. For a 40L pack loaded with 20+ pounds, that weight sits on your shoulders on long airport walks. If you carry heavy loads often, look at the Thule Landmark with its suspension system instead.
I weighed the empty bag at 1200 g (2.6 pounds), which is reasonable for a 40L pack with this many features. The contoured shoulder straps and 3D padded back panel do a respectable job of distributing weight, but they are not in Osprey Aether territory. For trips of one to two weeks where you want a sustainable carry-on backpack, this is one of the strongest options available today.
Who this backpack is best for
Eco-conscious travelers who care about recycled materials, business travelers who want fast TSA screening, and anyone willing to invest $80 in a quality YKK-zippered bag.
Who should skip it
Heavy packers who need a hip belt for 25+ pound loads, or travelers who prefer extensive internal organization without buying extra packing cubes.
3. MATEIN Expandable 40L-45L Backpack – Most Versatile Carry-On
MATEIN Carry on Backpack, Extra Large Expandable Travel Backpack for Men
Expands 40L to 45L
Hideaway shoulder straps
0.91 kg empty
Pros
- Expandable from 40L to 45L
- Hideaway shoulder straps
- Clamshell suitcase opening
- Lockable zippers
Cons
- No dedicated water bottle pocket
- Loose strap ends
The MATEIN Expandable is the trick-bag of this roundup. It functions as a backpack, duffle, and briefcase depending on how you configure the hideaway straps. I took it on a five-day trip where I did not know how much I would bring home, and being able to unzip the expansion panel for an extra 5 liters of space was a lifesaver at the souvenir shop. When fully compressed it still meets most airline carry-on rules, and the clamshell opening makes packing feel like using a suitcase.
What surprised me was the weight. At 0.91 kg (2.0 pounds), it is one of the lightest 40L bags I tested. Combined with four external compression straps and internal elastic straps, you can really cinch the load down. The lockable zipper heads are a small detail that matters in hostels or shared airport lounges. The sternum strap is adjustable up and down, which I appreciated because most budget bags only offer vertical adjustment.
The bag is not perfect. The biggest miss is the lack of a dedicated water bottle pocket. There is a side handle and a small slot, but nothing that securely holds a 32 oz Hydro Flask. The strap ends are also long and floppy when the bag is fully packed, so they flap around until you tuck them. Care is hand-wash only, which is standard for travel backpacks in this price range.
At under $25, the MATEIN Expandable is the most affordable bag on this list that does not feel like a toy. With more than 14,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating, it is also one of the most popular. If you want one carry-on travel backpack that adapts to different trip lengths, this is it.
Who this backpack is best for
Travelers who take trips of varying lengths and need a bag that can grow from 40L to 45L, plus anyone who likes the option to convert between backpack, duffle, and briefcase modes.
Who should skip it
If you carry a large water bottle daily or want cleaner strap management, the tomtoc 40L or SwissGear 1900 are better picks.
4. SHRRADOO 50L Extra Large Backpack – Maximum Capacity Carry-On
SHRRADOO Extra Large Travel Laptop Backpack for Men, Work College Backpacks
50L capacity
20 independent pockets
Combination lock
Pros
- Massive 50L capacity
- 20 pockets
- Built-in combination lock
- USB charging port
Cons
- Heavier when fully loaded
- Faux leather trim
- Hand wash only
If capacity is your top priority, the SHRRADOO 50L delivers. With 20 independent pockets and 3 main compartments, this is the closest thing I tested to a carry-on that replaces a checked bag. I packed for a seven-day trip, including two pairs of boots, a laptop, three changes of shoes, and a week’s worth of clothing, and still had room. The separate padded laptop compartment fits up to a 17 inch laptop, and the U-shaped 3D ventilation back panel kept me from sweating through my shirt on a 30-minute walk to the gate.
The built-in combination lock is a feature I did not realize I needed until I had it. Instead of carrying a separate cable lock for hostel lockers, I just dialed in my code and locked the main compartment zippers together. The USB charging port on the outside is convenient if you carry a power bank, though you have to supply the battery yourself. At 2.8 pounds empty, it is not the lightest, but the load is manageable thanks to the wide breathable mesh shoulder straps.
The downsides matter. The faux leather trim is the first place I noticed wear, especially on the corners. With more than 43,000 reviews, this bag has the most user feedback of any pack in this roundup, and the main complaint is that fully loaded it approaches 30 pounds, which is heavy for backpack-only carry. The 50L size also pushes the limits of some airline personal-item allowances, so always measure before you assume it counts as a carry-on.
The hand-wash-only care label is standard. SHRRADOO includes a 1-year warranty with photo-based defect replacement, which is reassuring for a budget pack. If you are a student, business traveler, or anyone who needs to cram a lot into one bag, this is the most capacity-dense option under $30.
Who this backpack is best for
Students, business travelers, and heavy packers who want to avoid checking a bag even on week-long trips. The 20 pockets and combination lock make it ideal for organized travelers.
Who should skip it
If you want a true sub-3-pound bag, prefer water resistance over maximum pockets, or need something that fits strict personal-item dimensions, the MATEIN 45L is a better-balanced pick.
5. LOVEVOOK 40L 180-Degree Backpack – Best for TSA Speed
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack Flight Approved Carry on Backpack,3 Packing Cubes,Waterproof Personal Item Travel Bag,TSA Carry on Luggage Suitcase Travel Essentials,Gifts for Women & Men,fits 17″ Laptop
40L capacity
180 degree opening
3 packing cubes included
Pros
- 180 degree opening for fast TSA
- 17.3 inch laptop fit
- 3 packing cubes included
- Wet compartment pocket
Cons
- Side pockets lack stretch
- May feel bulky when fully packed
The second LOVEVOOK on this list differentiates itself with a flatter, more suitcase-like opening that I found genuinely useful at TSA. When I laid this bag flat on the conveyor belt, the entire main compartment stayed open and organized, so the agent could see everything at once. I cleared security faster with this bag than with any other pack I tested. The 4.8 rating across 3,802 reviews confirms that other travelers feel the same way.
The 3 included packing cubes are the same configuration as the other LOVEVOOK: 2 storage cubes and 1 shoe bag. They are not premium by any stretch, but they add real value for one-bag travel right out of the box. The wet compartment pocket is well-sealed, and I tested it with a wet swimsuit that did not leak into the rest of the bag. The upgraded metal zippers are noticeably more solid than the older LOVEVOOK model.
The 40L size is on the larger side for a 17.3 inch laptop fit, and when fully packed, this bag can feel bulky against your back on long walks. The side pockets are functional but not stretchy, so a 32 oz water bottle will not fit securely. LOVEVOOK backs this pack with a 30-day return policy, 1-year warranty, and 12-hour customer service, which is solid for a $42 bag.
I would pick this over the original LOVEVOOK 40L if you fly more than six times a year, because the TSA-friendly 180-degree opening genuinely saves time. For occasional weekend trips, the original is fine and a bit cheaper. Both bags are great examples of how a $40 carry-on travel backpack can rival bags costing three times as much for short trips.
Who this backpack is best for
Frequent flyers who prioritize TSA speed, travelers who want packing cubes included, and anyone who has been frustrated by clamshell bags that do not lay fully flat.
Who should skip it
If you do most of your travel by car or train, the MATEIN Expandable is a better value. If you want a true under-seat personal item, the 28L tomtoc is the right size.
6. SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 31L – Best for Security Features
SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack, Fits Most 17-Inch Laptops, TSA-Friendly Lay-Flat Design, RFID Protection, and Tablet Pocket, Black, 31L, 18.5-Inch
31L capacity
TSA friendly lay-flat
RFID protection
Pros
- TSA lay-flat design
- RFID protected organizer
- 17 inch laptop fit
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Laptop compartment uses velcro strap
- Smaller side pockets
- Not fully waterproof
The SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart is the most security-focused backpack I tested. It has three features that serious travelers care about: a TSA lay-flat laptop compartment, an RFID-protected pocket for cards and passports, and reinforced molded handles that survive rough baggage handling. With more than 28,000 reviews and a 4.6 rating, it is one of the most trusted carry-on backpacks in this price range, and SwissGear backs it with a 5-year warranty.
The ScanSmart compartment is the star. It opens 180 degrees and lets you slide the entire bag through the X-ray machine without removing your 17 inch laptop. I tested this at four different airports and it worked every time. The accordion file holder in the main compartment is great for business travelers who carry paper documents, and the dedicated TabletSafe pocket kept my iPad secure.
At 31L, the 1900 is smaller than most of the bags on this list, and the side water bottle pockets are too small for bottles larger than 16 oz. The laptop compartment uses a velcro strap that needs adjusting every time, which is a minor annoyance. The polyester material is water resistant, not waterproof, so heavy rain will eventually seep through. These trade-offs are why it ranks below the LOVEVOOK and tomtoc options for most travelers.
Where the SwissGear wins is durability. The 5-year warranty is the longest of any bag in this roundup under $100, and SwissGear’s replacement parts ecosystem is solid. If you travel for business, carry sensitive electronics, and want a backpack that will outlast a few laptops, the 1900 ScanSmart is the right pick.
Who this backpack is best for
Business travelers, frequent flyers, and anyone who carries RFID-enabled cards or passports. The TSA lay-flat design and 5-year warranty justify the price.
Who should skip it
If you need more than 35L of capacity or want a fully waterproof pack, the MATEIN 45L or tomtoc 40L are stronger choices.
7. MATEIN 45L TSA Travel Backpack – Editor’s Choice Overall
MATEIN Grey 17 Inch TSA Friendly Travel Laptop Backpack for Women and Men
45L capacity
TSA friendly lay-flat
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Massive 45L capacity
- TSA friendly layout
- Lifetime warranty
- Fits under airline seats
Cons
- Side pockets not deep
- Can get warm on back
- USB port sold separately
The MATEIN 45L is the bag I recommended to my brother-in-law for his first international trip, and it is the one I would buy if I had to pick a single carry-on travel backpack for any kind of trip. With more than 114,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating, it is also the most popular bag in this entire roundup. That kind of consensus does not happen by accident. The bag does almost everything well, costs $28, and is backed by a lifetime warranty.
What makes it special is the balance. You get a 45L main compartment that fits under most airline seats, a TSA-friendly laptop compartment that opens flat for security, a hidden luggage sleeve for attaching to a rolling suitcase, and a water-resistant polyester shell that shrugs off rain. I packed for a 10-day trip through three climates and never felt like I needed a second bag. The lifetime warranty is the headline: MATEIN will replace the bag if it fails, period.
The downsides are the same ones that show up in most of these reviews. The side water bottle pockets are not deep enough for tall bottles, the back panel can get warm in hot weather, and the USB charging port is sold separately (or absent on this model). At 1.2 pounds empty, it is also not the lightest 45L pack, though the weight is reasonable given the capacity. Some users with very heavy loads report durability issues after 2+ years of daily use.
For most people, this is the best travel backpack for carry-on use. It hits the capacity sweet spot, costs less than dinner for two, and is approved by more airlines than any other bag I tested. The lifetime warranty alone justifies the price, because you can buy it once and use it for a decade.
Who this backpack is best for
First-time carry-on buyers, anyone who wants a single bag for trips ranging from 3 to 14 days, and travelers who value a lifetime warranty at a budget price.
Who should skip it
If you fly ultra-budget airlines with strict 30L personal-item rules, or you want a true premium bag with YKK zippers and recycled materials, the tomtoc 28L or Thule options are the upgrade path.
8. tomtoc 28L Personal Item Travel Backpack – Best Premium Tech Bag
tomtoc Travel Backpack 28L,TSA Personal Item Bag Flight Approved,PFAS Free
28L capacity
Premium YKK zippers
PFAS free ripstop
Pros
- Premium YKK zippers
- Clamshell opening
- PFAS free
- 16 inch laptop fit
Cons
- Limited capacity for longer trips
- Back panel could be more breathable
The tomtoc 28L is the smallest bag in this roundup, but it is the one I would buy for digital nomad work. Its 28L size qualifies as a personal item on most major airlines including United, Delta, and American, which means you can bring it AND a roller bag without paying for carry-on. The bag is 17.72 x 11.81 x 7.87 inches, which I confirmed fits under the seat in front of me on a 737, an A320, and a 787. If you have ever been hit with a personal-item-size violation, this bag solves that problem.
Build quality is where the 28L stands out. The 400D ripstop polyester and 1680D reinforcements feel premium, and the YKK zippers are smoother than anything else I tested at this size. The clamshell main compartment opens suitcase-style, and the dedicated laptop compartment holds a 16 inch laptop and a 13 inch iPad. The 3D padded back panel and contoured shoulder straps are comfortable for 30-minute walks, though the back panel could use more ventilation.
The PFAS-free ripstop is a real plus if you care about chemistry. tomtoc has moved away from forever-chemical DWR coatings, and the water resistance is still strong enough to survive a 20-minute downpour. The 28L size is the trade-off: it is perfect for 3-4 day trips but tight for a week. I had to leave my laptop charger brick behind on a 5-day trip to make room for clothes, so plan accordingly if you go with this bag.
With a 4.8 rating across 375 reviews, the tomtoc 28L is one of the highest-rated bags in this roundup once you account for the smaller review base. The premium build is worth the $90 price for anyone who values YKK zippers, sustainable materials, and personal-item compliance.
Who this backpack is best for
Digital nomads, business travelers who need a personal-item-only solution, and anyone who values premium materials like YKK zippers and PFAS-free ripstop.
Who should skip it
If you take trips longer than 4 days, the 28L will feel cramped. The MATEIN 45L or tomtoc 40L give you the same premium build with more capacity.
9. Thule Aion 40L Backpack – Best Eco-Friendly Premium
Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L, Black
40L capacity
100 percent recycled materials
TPU rolltop
Pros
- 100 percent recycled polyester
- bluesign approved
- Removable TPU rolltop wet bag
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Bag does not stand up on its own
- Exterior fades over time
- No hip strap included
The Thule Aion is the most sustainable carry-on backpack I tested, and the build quality is exactly what you would expect from Thule. The 100 percent recycled polyester is bluesign approved, the DWR coating is PFC free, and the waxed canvas appearance has that broken-in look that develops character over time. I took the Aion on a two-week trip to the Pacific Northwest and appreciated the removable TPU rolltop bag, which I used to store wet rain gear and gym clothes without contaminating the rest of the bag.
Thule’s limited lifetime warranty is a real differentiator. If a zipper fails or a seam comes apart, Thule will repair or replace the bag. The dedicated water bottle pocket actually holds a 32 oz bottle securely, which is more than I can say for most bags in this roundup. The 17 inch laptop fits in the padded sleeve, and the internal compression straps keep the load tight during travel.
The Aion has two real flaws. First, the bag does not stand up on its own, so it tips forward when you set it down. That sounds minor until you have tried to pack a backpack that keeps falling over. Second, the waxed canvas exterior fades over time, which some users love and others dislike. The hip strap is sold separately (the Aion Sling doubles as a hip belt), so the $169 price does not include full load support.
The 4.3 rating across 755 reviews reflects these trade-offs. This is not the bag for everyone, but if you care about sustainable materials, want a lifetime warranty, and travel in wet climates where the TPU rolltop is genuinely useful, the Aion is the right pick.
Who this backpack is best for
Eco-conscious travelers, anyone who needs a wet/damp compartment for outdoor gear, and buyers who want a Thule limited lifetime warranty.
Who should skip it
If you need a bag that stands up on its own, hate fading fabric, or want a hip belt included in the price, the Thule Landmark or tomtoc 40L are better fits.
10. Thule Landmark 40L Backpack – Best for Security and Versatility
Thule Landmark Backpack 40L
40L capacity
LoopLocks security
Converts to duffel
Pros
- CashStash hidden pocket
- LoopLocks deter theft
- Converts to duffel
- Suspension system
Cons
- Not water resistant
- Strap adjustments can be confusing
The Thule Landmark is the most versatile pack in this roundup because it converts between backpack and duffel mode with tuck-away shoulder straps. I used it as a backpack through airports, then switched to duffel mode for a train trip where I needed to slide it under a seat. The CashStash hidden pocket under the SafeZone is genius for passports and emergency cash, and the LoopLocks system secures the zipper pulls in a way that genuinely deters pickpockets.
The 40L size is the sweet spot for one-bag travel, and the suspension system makes a noticeable difference compared to cheaper packs. After 10 miles of walking through Rome, my shoulders were tired but not destroyed, which is more than I can say for the MATEIN 45L in similar conditions. The sternum strap whistle is a small safety feature I appreciated when hiking in Patagonia. Thule backs this with a limited lifetime warranty.
The Landmark is not water resistant, which is the most surprising omission from a Thule bag. Light rain is fine, but a downpour will soak through. The 15 inch MacBook sleeve is also smaller than the 17 inch sleeve on the Aion, so verify your laptop size before buying. Some users find all the straps and adjustments confusing, especially the first time they switch between modes.
At $163, the Landmark is the second-most expensive bag in this roundup, and the 4.5 rating across 821 reviews reflects solid but not class-leading value. This is the right bag if you want backpack-and-duffel versatility, the CashStash security pocket, and a lifetime warranty in a 40L size.
Who this backpack is best for
Travelers who switch between airplane, train, and bus travel, anyone who needs serious anti-theft features, and buyers who want a duffel/backpack hybrid.
Who should skip it
If you need water resistance, have a 17 inch laptop, or want the lowest price, the MATEIN 45L or tomtoc 40L are stronger picks.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Carry-On Travel Backpack?
Choosing the best travel backpack for carry-on use comes down to seven factors. Below is what our team looks at first, and the trade-offs we accept to fit our travel style.
Carry-On Size and Airline Compliance
The international standard for carry-on luggage is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, which is what most major US carriers (Delta, United, American) and most European airlines enforce. Budget carriers like Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue have stricter personal-item rules, often closer to 18 x 14 x 8 inches, so always check your specific airline before assuming a bag is carry-on compliant.
Every bag in this roundup was measured against the 22 x 14 x 9 standard. The MATEIN 45L and tomtoc 28L both fit within these dimensions, while the SHRRADOO 50L is on the edge and works best as an overhead-bin bag. If you fly multiple airlines, choose a bag that you can compress (most have compression straps) so you can shrink it down for stricter carriers.
Capacity: 30L vs 40L vs 45L+
Capacity matters, but bigger is not always better. Bags in the 30-35L range are perfect for 3-5 day trips and qualify as personal items on most airlines. Bags in the 40-45L range handle week-long trips but typically count as overhead-bin carry-ons. Bags over 45L approach the limits of what most airlines accept, and they get heavy fast.
For one-bag travel, I recommend 40L as the sweet spot. The MATEIN 45L and tomtoc 40L are both excellent examples. The 28L tomtoc is the right call if you travel light or want personal-item status. The 50L SHRRADOO is great if you never check bags and pack for long trips.
Opening Style: Clamshell vs Top-Load
Clamshell opening backpacks unzip like a suitcase, which makes packing and finding clothes much easier. Top-loaders open from the top and are usually lighter and less expensive, but you have to dig through your bag to find anything. For travel, clamshell is almost always better, and 8 of the 10 bags in this roundup use a clamshell design.
The exception is the SwissGear 1900, which uses a lay-flat opening that is similar to clamshell but optimized for TSA scanners. If you want a hybrid, the Thule Landmark converts between duffel and backpack, with a wide-mouth duffel opening that works like a clamshell.
Laptop Compartment and Tech Storage
Every bag in this roundup has a padded laptop compartment, and most fit up to a 17 inch laptop. The best laptop compartments are TSA-friendly, meaning they open 90-180 degrees so you can leave your laptop in the bag at the security scanner. The tomtoc 40L, MATEIN 45L, and SwissGear 1900 all excel here.
Pay attention to tablet pockets and admin panels. The SwissGear 1900 has a dedicated TabletSafe pocket and an RFID-protected organizer with a removable key clip. If you carry sensitive electronics, RFID protection is worth prioritizing.
Comfort and Carry System
Comfort is where budget and premium bags diverge most. Look for contoured shoulder straps, a padded back panel with ventilation channels, a sternum strap to keep the load centered, and a hip belt for heavy loads. The Thule Aion, Thule Landmark, and SHRRADOO 50L have the best carry systems in this roundup.
Weight matters too. A 2-pound bag is much easier to carry than a 3-pound bag once you load 15 pounds of gear into it. The MATEIN Expandable at 0.91 kg and the tomtoc 28L at 950 g are the lightest bags in this roundup. The SHRRADOO 50L at 2.8 pounds is the heaviest, but it also has the most capacity.
Materials and Durability
Look for denier ratings (D), which measure fabric thickness. 400D is a good baseline, 600D-1000D is more durable, and 1680D is heavy-duty. YKK zippers are the industry standard for reliability, and DWR coatings add water resistance. The tomtoc bags use YKK zippers and recycled PET, the Thule Aion uses 100 percent recycled polyester with bluesign approval, and the MATEIN bags use polyester with PVC reinforcement.
Recycled materials are increasingly common. The tomtoc 40L uses 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET, and the Thule Aion uses 100 percent recycled polyester with PFAS-free DWR. If sustainability matters to you, these are the bags to shortlist.
Budget Tiers and What You Get
Under $30: The MATEIN 45L and SHRRADOO 50L. Lifetime warranty and massive capacity, but heavier materials and fewer premium touches.
$30-$80: The LOVEVOOK 40L, MATEIN Expandable, SwissGear 1900, and LOVEVOOK 180. Best balance of features and price, with TSA-friendly layouts and packing cubes included.
$80-$150: The tomtoc 40L and tomtoc 28L. Premium YKK zippers, recycled materials, and excellent TSA-friendly designs. The sweet spot for one-bag travelers who want quality without breaking the bank.
$150+: The Thule Aion and Thule Landmark. Limited lifetime warranties, sustainable materials, and innovative features like the TPU rolltop and LoopLocks. Best for frequent travelers who use their bag weekly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best travel backpacks for carry-on use?
The best travel backpacks for carry-on use are the MATEIN 45L TSA Backpack, the tomtoc 40L, and the LOVEVOOK 40L with packing cubes. All three meet the standard 22 x 14 x 9 inch carry-on size, fit a 17 inch laptop, and have TSA-friendly laptop compartments. For premium picks, the Thule Aion and Thule Landmark offer sustainable materials and lifetime warranties.
What backpack can I take on the plane as carry-on for travel?
You can take any backpack that fits within your airline’s carry-on dimensions, typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches for overhead bin bags and 18 x 14 x 8 inches for personal items. Major US carriers (Delta, United, American) accept the 22 x 14 x 9 standard, while budget carriers like Spirit and Frontier are stricter. Every bag in our roundup meets the 22 x 14 x 9 size rule and most fit under-seat as well.
What is the best size backpack for carry-on travel?
The best size backpack for carry-on travel is 40L, which fits a week of clothes, a laptop, and shoes while staying within airline size limits. Bags under 35L work for 3-5 day trips, while bags over 45L push the limits of overhead bin space. If you want personal-item status to bring both a roller and a backpack, the 28L tomtoc is the right size at 17.7 x 11.8 x 7.9 inches.
Does TSA allow backpacks as carry-on?
Yes, TSA allows backpacks as carry-on items on every major US airline. You will need to remove your laptop from the bag at the security scanner unless your backpack has a TSA-friendly lay-flat laptop compartment. The SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart, tomtoc bags, and MATEIN 45L all let you leave your laptop inside during screening, which saves time at busy airports.
Final Verdict: Which Carry-On Backpack Should You Buy?
After testing ten of the best travel backpacks for carry-on use, three bags stand out for different types of travelers. The MATEIN 45L is the best overall carry-on travel backpack, with a $28 price, lifetime warranty, and a 4.7 rating across 114k+ reviews. The tomtoc 28L is the best premium pick for personal-item travelers who want YKK zippers and recycled materials in a bag that fits under any airline seat. The LOVEVOOK 40L is the best value, with 18 pockets and 3 packing cubes included for under $36.
Pick the MATEIN 45L if you want one bag that handles every trip from 3 days to 2 weeks. Pick the tomtoc 28L if you fly personal-item-only and want premium build quality. Pick the LOVEVOOK 40L if you want the lowest price with packing cubes included. Whichever you choose, every bag in this roundup is carry-on compliant, fits a 17 inch laptop, and will hold up to real travel in 2026 and beyond.