10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2026 in the United States

The Thule Landmark Backpack 40L is designed as a carry-on-sized travel backpack with a well-balanced 40-liter capacity, making it suitable for short trips or adventure travel. It weighs about 1.44 kilograms (roughly 3.2 pounds), which is relatively light for its size and capacity, helping reduce the load on your back during travel. The backpack offers good organization with six pockets and five compartments, including dedicated padded spaces for a 15" laptop and a 12.9" tablet, which is convenient for keeping electronics safe and accessible.

Its standout security features include the hidden CashStash compartment to protect money and passports, and LoopLocks that secure zipper pulls to deter theft, which is a plus for travelers concerned about pickpockets. The outer material is polyester, noted as lightweight but not water resistant, so it may not perform well in heavy rain without an extra cover. Comfort-wise, it uses basic straps, which may be sufficient for moderate carrying but might not offer the enhanced padding or ergonomic support found in more hiking-focused backpacks.

Durability should be reliable given the brand reputation and polyester build, but the lack of water resistance could be a limitation depending on your travel conditions. This backpack suits travelers looking for a sturdy, organized, and secure carry-on backpack with enough space for essentials, especially those who prioritize theft protection. For travelers expecting frequent wet weather or requiring extra padded comfort for long hiking days, other options might be more appropriate.

The MATEIN Mens Backpack is a strong choice for travelers looking for a versatile carry-on bag. Its expandable design offers generous packing space, meeting airline size limits while letting you fit extra items when needed. Weighing just 13.7 ounces, it’s very lightweight, easing the burden when moving through airports or on day trips. Comfort is well addressed with padded, adjustable shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and a sternum strap to help distribute weight more evenly, which is great for longer wear. The backpack converts neatly between a traditional carry-on style and a briefcase look by hiding the shoulder straps, adding flexibility for different travel situations. Organizationally, it includes a front pocket for small essentials like phones and earphones, a large main compartment with compression straps to keep items secure, and multiple grab handles for easy handling.

Durability is impressive due to its water-resistant polyester fabric, sturdy zippers, and solid stitching, which should hold up well under various travel conditions. A luggage strap also lets you attach it securely to a suitcase handle, simplifying transit. On the downside, while the backpack is large, its expandable feature might add extra bulk that could be tricky in very tight overhead bins. Also, it’s designed as a unisex bag but the styling and color options may not suit everyone’s taste. This backpack is well suited for frequent travelers, weekend adventurers, or anyone wanting a practical, lightweight carry-on with smart features and good durability.

The Thule Enroute Backpack 26L is a solid choice for travelers or daily commuters who need a reliable carry-on backpack. With a 26-liter capacity, it strikes a good balance between roomy and compact, fitting well within most airline carry-on limits. The backpack offers dedicated, well-padded pockets for a 15.6" laptop and a 10.5" tablet, which helps protect your devices during travel. The water-resistant secondary compartment with an opaque, zipped TPU pocket is useful for keeping clothes and accessories safe and private.

Organizational features like the panel for small items and a stretchy pocket for quick access keep your essentials tidy and easy to find. Made from durable nylon and polyester, it resists wear and offers some water resistance, which is useful in varying weather. Although the strap design is basic without extra padding or advanced comfort features, the backpack's lightweight build helps reduce shoulder strain.

One small downside is the lack of fabric stretch, which means it might feel a bit stiff when fully packed. This backpack is well-suited for travelers or students who want a dependable, organized bag for carrying tech and personal items without unnecessary bulk.