10 Best Airplane Travel Backpack 2025 in the United States

The Osprey Daylite Expandable 26+6 Travel Pack is a lightweight and durable backpack designed with travelers in mind. Its standout feature is the expandable main compartment, which adds 6 liters of space when needed, making it versatile for both everyday use and longer trips while still fitting under most airline seats. Weighing just under 2 pounds, it is easy to carry without feeling bulky.

Comfort is a key strength here thanks to the AirScape back panel, which offers good ventilation and ergonomic support, helping keep your back cool during long travel days. The pack is well organized with a tech sleeve, front quick-access pocket, and two stretch water bottle holders, which help keep your essentials tidy and easy to reach. It also has a luggage pass-through for convenient attachment to rolling suitcases.

The backpack has only one main compartment, which might limit how separated your items can be inside, and it lacks advanced security features like lockable zippers. This pack is ideal for travelers seeking a lightweight, comfortable personal item that offers reasonable organization and expandable capacity without extra bulk.

The Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack Pro is a solid choice for travelers seeking a large, carry-on approved bag that fits most airline overhead bins, measuring 22 x 14 x 8 inches. Its 40-liter capacity is great for trips lasting a week or more without needing to check a bag, making it suitable for both men and women who want to pack efficiently. The backpack’s standout feature is comfort: it includes height-adjustable straps, thick padding, and a hip belt that takes most of the weight off your shoulders, which helps prevent discomfort during long walks through airports or city streets.

It organizes belongings well with multiple compartments including a front-loading suitcase-style opening, dedicated sleeves for laptops and tablets, several front pockets, and water bottle holders, which makes packing and accessing items straightforward. Durability is another plus, as it’s made from tough, waterproof sailcloth and equipped with water-resistant YKK zippers, so it can withstand rough travel conditions and light rain. Weighing about 4.5 pounds, it’s on the heavier side compared to some other backpacks, but this weight supports its sturdy build and ample features.

While it offers good water resistance, it is not fully waterproof and might require extra protection in heavy rain. Security features include water-resistant zippers, though it does not feature lockable zippers or specific anti-theft technology. This backpack blends size, durability, and comfort, making it ideal for frequent flyers or anyone wanting a reliable, well-organized carry-on bag for extended trips.

The NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag is a versatile option for airplane travel. Its size (22 x 14 x 9 inches) makes it suitable as a carry-on, and its 40L capacity offers ample space for essentials. The bag is built from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of travel, which is a definite plus in terms of longevity.

One of its standout features is its dual functionality, allowing it to convert from a duffel bag to a backpack, catering to different preferences and scenarios. The inclusion of over 20 innovative features, including specialized pockets for shoes, liquids, and tech, enhances organization and convenience. Additionally, it's designed with security in mind, with features like a luggage strap and anti-theft components ensuring your belongings are safe.

At 4.05 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for its size and multifunctionality. However, it’s worth noting that the bag's material, while durable, may not be fully waterproof, which could be a drawback in wet conditions. Comfort is another important aspect; this bag aims to offer ergonomic support and comfort, though some users might find it bulky when fully packed. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag stands out as a reliable and functional choice for frequent travelers.