10 Best 40 L Travel Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L is designed for travelers who need a medium-sized bag with smart organization and good protection for tech gear. Its 40-liter capacity provides enough room for a few days’ worth of clothes and essentials, making it a solid choice for short trips or carry-on use. The bag weighs just over 3 pounds, which is reasonable given its sturdy polyester material and the padded compartments it offers. The removable TPU rolltop bag is a clever feature, keeping wet or dirty items separated so the rest of your stuff stays clean and fresh.

Comfort is enhanced if you add the optional Thule Aion Sling Bag, which can act as a hip belt for better support during longer carries, although this is sold separately. The backpack includes a padded laptop and tablet sleeve, a zippered top pocket for quick access to small items, and a dedicated water bottle pocket, all helping with organization and convenience. Access to items is straightforward, though the rolltop bag and multiple compartments might require some getting used to at first.

The polyester material is durable and suited to regular travel, while the limited lifetime warranty adds peace of mind. One minor consideration is that the bag doesn’t come with built-in security features like lockable zippers, so extra care might be needed in busy places. This backpack is well suited for travelers prioritizing organized packing, device protection, and versatility in a mid-sized bag.

The G4Free 40L Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack is designed with travelers and hikers in mind, offering a balanced mix of features that cater to both comfort and functionality. With a 40-liter capacity, this backpack provides ample room for your essentials, making it suitable for short trips or day hikes. Its lightweight nature, at just 1 pound, ensures that it won't add unnecessary weight to your load, and its ability to fold into a compact size makes it an excellent space-saver for those trying to avoid extra baggage charges.

This backpack stands out with its waterproof wet pocket, ideal for keeping electronics and dry clothes separate from wet or soiled items, adding a layer of protection against unexpected weather or splashes. The multi-compartment design enhances organization, featuring a main compartment, several zipped pockets, and two side pockets, allowing users to efficiently sort and access their belongings.

Constructed from high-quality, water-resistant polyamide fabric and reinforced with Bar-Tacks at the seams, the backpack promises durability. The SBS zippers are an added bonus, noted for their abrasion resistance. Comfort is not neglected, with breathable, padded S-type shoulder straps and an adjustable chest strap designed to distribute weight evenly and reduce shoulder strain.

However, while the G4Free backpack offers great organization and durability, security features are somewhat limited as there is no mention of lockable zippers or anti-theft compartments, which might be a concern for travelers in unsafe areas. Additionally, while the packable nature is convenient, some users might find it less supportive for heavier loads due to the absence of a more structured frame.

This backpack is a versatile choice for individuals seeking a lightweight, durable, and water-resistant option for various activities, though those prioritizing high-security features may need to look elsewhere.

The Thule Subterra Convertible Carry On 40L is a smart choice for travelers who want a versatile and well-organized backpack with a decent capacity of 40 liters. At 3.5 pounds, it's relatively lightweight considering its size, making it easier to carry without feeling bulky. The bag is made from durable, water-resistant 800D nylon, which should hold up well against everyday wear and light rain. One of its standout features is the convertible design—it switches easily between a shoulder bag and a backpack, adding comfort and convenience depending on how you want to carry it.

Organization is a strong suit here, with a suitcase-style opening that makes packing and unpacking simple. The zippered mesh divider helps keep your belongings neat, and a separate compartment is perfect for shoes or laundry, which is great for longer trips. The removable laptop sleeve fits most 15" laptops and tablets along with accessories, offering good protection and easy access. There’s also a hidden pocket designed for passports and important documents, enhancing security without sacrificing quick reach.

The integrated pass-through panel allows you to attach the bag to rolling luggage, which is a useful feature when navigating airports. The bag’s structure is soft-sided, so it won’t protect very fragile items as rigid luggage would. While the straps are comfortable enough for moderate use, heavy loads for extended periods might be less comfortable compared to more padded hiking-style backpacks. This backpack suits travelers who prioritize organization, versatility, and moderate durability in a carry-on size. It’s especially appealing for business or casual travelers who need easy access to tech gear and documents on the go. For those wanting a lightweight, water-resistant bag with clever compartments and security features, the Thule Subterra is worth considering, though it’s not ideal for rough handling or very heavy loads.