10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The Osprey Daylite Expandable 26+6 Travel Pack is a lightweight and durable choice for travelers seeking a versatile carry-on backpack. Weighing just 1.75 pounds, it is easy to carry without adding bulk, and its materials are designed to withstand frequent use. The pack starts with a 26-liter capacity but can expand by an additional 6 liters, providing extra space without worrying about airline size restrictions. Its size fits well as an international personal item, allowing it to be stored under the seat on most flights to avoid gate check hassles.

This backpack features one main compartment complemented by useful pockets, including two stretch water bottle holders and a front zip pocket for quick access to essentials. The padded AirScape back panel offers good ventilation and ergonomic support, helping keep your back comfortable during long travel days. While it has only a single main compartment, which might limit organization for those preferring many separate pockets, the included tech sleeve and luggage pass-through add convenience for travelers using rolling bags.

This backpack is well suited for travelers who prioritize lightweight comfort and flexible space within carry-on limits, especially for day trips or as an extra personal item on flights.

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 coowoz Travel Backpack is a versatile and practical option for short trips or daily use, especially for travelers who want a lightweight, comfortable carry-on backpack. It’s made from waterproof polyester, which helps protect your belongings from rain and makes the bag durable over time. The padded shoulder straps improve comfort during longer wear, and the material also allows good air flow to keep you cool. At about 2.2 pounds, it’s light enough to carry around without feeling heavy.

The backpack offers multiple compartments including a wet bag for separating damp items and a separate shoe compartment, which is very handy for travel and sports activities. It also has two laptop sections that fit a tablet and a 15.6-inch laptop, making it suitable for work or study on the go. The size is designed to hold about 1-2 days worth of clothes and essentials, with dimensions around 17 x 31 x 42 inches, though the exact capacity is noted between 17 and 25 liters. This size works well for short getaways but might be tight for longer trips.

Some users might find the bag’s design more casual than sleek, which suits outdoorsy or everyday use better than formal business travel. The backpack excels in versatility, comfort, and protective features but may have minor inconsistencies in size details and is best suited for travelers needing a compact, organized bag for short trips or daily activities.