10 Best Airplane Travel Backpack 2025 in the United States

The Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack in Jet Black is designed for travelers who prefer to avoid checking in their luggage. With a total capacity of 24.5 liters, it offers ample space while still fitting easily into overhead bins or under seats. Made from rugged 420x2000D Cordura, this backpack ensures durability and longevity, backed by a lifetime warranty.

The padded shoulder straps and back panel enhance comfort during travel, and the adjustable sternum strap provides additional support. The backpack features multiple compartments, including a padded laptop compartment that fits up to 15-inch laptops, an internal organizer, and front and side pockets for easy access to travel essentials. Security is bolstered by side hooks protecting pocket openings and weatherproof zippers, although it lacks dedicated anti-theft features.

At 1.2 kilograms, the backpack is moderately lightweight, and it includes a water bottle pocket with a zipper for added convenience. Additionally, the bag is water-resistant, protecting your belongings from the elements. While it is highly functional and well-constructed, it might fall slightly short in terms of weight for those who prefer ultralight options. Ideal for adults looking for a durable, organized, and comfortable backpack for airplane travel, it balances capacity, durability, and ease of access effectively.

The Timbuk2 Scheme Convertible Briefcase Backpack in Jet Black, Medium, offers a versatile solution for business travelers. One of its key strengths is its dual functionality as both a briefcase and a backpack, which provides flexibility for different travel scenarios. Its medium size and dimensions (16.14 x 5.91 x 12.2 inches) make it suitable for carry-on, with ample space in the main compartment for a long weekend trip.

The backpack can accommodate most 15-inch laptops, which is great for work-related travel. The rugged 600D Poly material ensures durability, and its nylon lining adds to its sturdiness, promising long-term use backed by a lifetime warranty. The removable and adjustable straps enhance comfort and adaptability for various carrying styles. Additionally, the backpack features clever extras like a back zip pocket that converts to a luggage passthrough, making it easy to attach to rolling luggage.

At 2.7 pounds, the backpack is slightly on the heavier side compared to other travel backpacks, which might be a concern for those who prefer lighter options. In summary, the Timbuk2 Scheme Convertible Briefcase Backpack is ideal for business travelers seeking versatility, durability, and organization, but it may not be the best choice for those needing a lightweight option.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a solid choice for an airplane travel backpack, especially if you value durability and comfort. Its 46-liter capacity fits within typical carry-on size limits, making it suitable for short to medium trips. The bag is made from heavy-duty, bluesign approved recycled materials, which means it's tough and environmentally friendly.

Comfort is a strong point here, thanks to the AirScape back panel and tuckaway harness and hipbelt, which help distribute weight well and make carrying easier during long walks through airports. The unique Straight Jacket compression system adds extra padding and keeps your load stable. The backpack weighs about 3.5 pounds, which is reasonable for its size but not ultra-light. Osprey bags typically offer decent protection against light rain, though a rain cover might be needed in heavier weather. A nice extra is the included TSID luggage registration, which can help recover your bag if lost.

This backpack is ideal for travelers who want a durable, comfortable, and carry-on sized pack with good load control. However, travelers needing ultra-lightweight gear or more organizational pockets might want to explore other options.