10 Best 40 L Travel Backpacks 2026 in the United States

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.

The Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L in Nutria is designed to be a reliable companion for travelers. With a 40-liter capacity, it strikes a balance between spaciousness and manageability, making it suitable for extended trips without being overly bulky.

The backpack is made from bluesign approved, 100% recycled polyester fabrics, combined with a waxed canvas that features a PFC-free durable water-resistant coating, ensuring both eco-friendliness and resilience against the elements. Weighing in at 1.45 kilograms, it is reasonably lightweight for its size, though not the lightest option available.

Comfort-wise, the backpack can be enhanced with the addition of the Thule Aion Sling Bag, which doubles as a supportive hip belt, though this must be purchased separately. The inclusion of padded storage for a 15.6-inch laptop adds to its practicality for travelers.

The Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack Pro is a solid choice if you need a carry-on sized travel bag that fits the essentials for a week or more. With a capacity of 40 liters, it strikes a good balance between enough space and being compact enough to meet airline carry-on size rules. Weighing about 3.5 pounds, it’s light enough to carry comfortably without being flimsy. The bag’s material is 630D CORDURA nylon, known for durability, and it uses strong YKK zippers that should hold up well during travel. Comfort is a key highlight here — the backpack has thick padding, a sternum strap, load lifters, and a hip belt that shifts most of the weight off your shoulders, making it easier to carry for longer periods without strain.

The organization is practical with a front-loading suitcase-style design, which makes packing and unpacking simple, plus a separate laptop compartment and two quick-access pockets for essentials. Access is convenient and straightforward thanks to these features. Security-wise, while the zippers are quality and durable, there are no lockable compartments or other anti-theft features included. Some might find the backpack slightly heavier compared to ultra-light options. This backpack is well-suited for frequent travelers who want a sturdy, comfortable, and easy-to-pack carry-on that handles a decent load without needing to check bags.