10 Best Airplane Travel Backpack 2025 in the United States

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a solid choice for travelers looking for a flexible and durable backpack that fits carry-on requirements. Its expandable capacity, ranging from 35 to 45 liters, lets you adjust the space based on your trip length or gear load, which is convenient for both short and longer travels. The weatherproof 400D recycled nylon shell offers strong protection against rain and rough handling, while the reinforced bottom adds extra durability — good for frequent flyers who want a bag that lasts.

Comfort-wise, the backpack includes padded, tuck-away shoulder straps and a hip belt which can be hidden for a sleeker look or used to distribute weight better during longer carries. This helps prevent strain, especially important when walking through airports or city streets. Multiple access points—top, side, and rear—make it easier to organize and quickly grab your essentials without unpacking everything.

Organization is another strong point, with smart compartments including a laptop sleeve and expandable side pockets ideal for water bottles or quick-access items. Security is decent; while it doesn’t boast advanced locks, it features sturdy zippers and a luggage pass-through strap that keeps it secured on your suitcase handle, easing TSA checks. At about 4.5 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than some other travel backpacks, which might matter if you’re trying to pack ultra-light. Also, care instructions recommend spot cleaning only, so it requires more careful maintenance. This backpack suits travelers who value adaptability, durability, and weather resistance with thoughtful organization. It's a versatile pick for both everyday use and extended trips, especially for those who prefer a minimalist style without sacrificing functionality.

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 LOVEVOOK Carry on Backpack is designed to be a roomy and flexible travel companion, expanding from 35L to 45L, which is great for trips lasting 3 to 7 days. Its size fits within most airline carry-on limits, making it a practical choice for air travel. At about 4 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight for its capacity, which helps reduce the load on your back. This backpack shines in organization, featuring four packing cubes to separate clothes, toiletries, and shoes, plus a special wet pocket for damp items. Comfort is addressed with breathable mesh and padded shoulder straps, which help with air circulation and ease shoulder strain during use.

The material is tear-resistant and water-resistant canvas, providing durability and some protection against rain or spills. The backpack also includes handy features like a side handle, luggage strap for attaching to a suitcase, and a 180-degree zipper for quick airport security checks. The overall size is a bit larger than typical carry-ons when fully expanded, so it might be bulkier for some travelers or when packing light. While it offers good water resistance, it’s not fully waterproof, so heavy rain could still be a concern.

Security features like lockable zippers aren’t mentioned, which might be worth considering if you want extra protection for your belongings. This backpack suits travelers looking for a spacious, well-organized, and comfortable carry-on that works well for medium-length trips and airport convenience, though those seeking a very compact or highly secure bag might want to look elsewhere.