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 Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L is a versatile choice for travelers needing a carry-on sized bag that can handle weekend trips or slightly longer journeys. With a 40-liter capacity, it strikes a good balance between enough space for essentials and being compact enough to meet carry-on size restrictions for most airlines. Weighing around 3 pounds, it’s relatively light, making it easier to carry without adding unnecessary bulk. The bag’s build uses a mix of recycled nylon materials, including durable ballistic nylon, which suggests strong resistance to wear and tear, making it suitable for frequent travel.

Comfort is well-considered with three different carrying options: backpack straps, a shoulder strap, and grab handles, which offer flexibility depending on how you want to carry it. Internally, there are multiple compartments, mesh pockets, and security zippered areas to keep your belongings organized and accessible without needing to unpack everything. This helps particularly with keeping smaller items in place and secure. The bag also features a larger zippered security pocket for valuables, enhancing peace of mind when traveling.

One potential drawback is that it weighs slightly more than some ultralight backpacks of similar size, so it might not be ideal if you prioritize minimal weight above all else. Additionally, while the bag’s design is practical, it doesn’t include advanced security features like lockable zippers beyond the zippered pockets. This bag represents a solid pick for travelers seeking a durable, well-organized 40L carry-on with multiple carrying options and reliable materials, especially those who prefer a no-fuss, all-in-one travel solution backed by a lifetime warranty.

The Thule Landmark Backpack 40L is a thoughtfully designed travel companion, particularly suited for those looking for a reliable carry-on option. With a capacity of 40 liters, it provides ample space for a short adventure trip while still adhering to carry-on size restrictions. Weighing in at about 1.58 kg (3.48 pounds), it's relatively lightweight, making it easier to carry for extended periods.

In terms of material, Thule is known for using durable fabrics, ensuring your backpack can withstand the rigors of travel. Comfort is enhanced by its ergonomic design, which likely includes padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel, although these specific features aren't detailed in the brief. The backpack excels in the organization with dedicated compartments for a 15-inch MacBook and a 12.9-inch tablet, which is perfect for tech-savvy travelers. The CashStash compartment is a clever security feature, allowing you to protect valuable items like your passport and money from pickpockets. LoopLocks further enhance security by securing zipper pulls to deter theft, which is a valuable addition for peace of mind.

Access to the contents of the backpack is straightforward, thanks to its design, though the specifics of the main compartment's accessibility aren't outlined. The durability of the backpack is suggested by Thule's reputation, though it's always wise to handle it with care to extend its life. While it ranks relatively well in customer satisfaction with a 4.6-star rating, potential buyers should consider if the lack of detailed comfort features and the absence of a rain cover might affect their travel needs. This backpack is best suited for organized travelers who value security features and need a reliable, tech-friendly backpack for shorter trips.