10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The NOMATIC Travel Carry On Backpack is a solid choice for travelers looking for a compact, organized bag that fits easily under an airplane seat. With a 20-liter capacity, it offers enough space for daily essentials like a laptop, clothes, and books without feeling bulky. At just under 4 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry comfortably for extended periods. The backpack’s water-resistant material provides good protection against light rain, making it dependable in various weather conditions.

It excels in organization, featuring multiple pockets including an RFID lockable security pocket, mesh zipper compartments, and a dedicated laptop slot sized for up to a 16-inch device. This helps keep your items secure and neatly arranged, which is great for business travelers or anyone who likes order. Comfort considerations suggest the size and weight should make it reasonably easy to carry, though it might lack the extra cushioning found in larger travel backpacks. The inclusion of cord pass-through holes adds convenience for charging devices on the go.

One minor drawback is its relatively narrow water bottle pocket, fitting bottles up to 3.5 inches in diameter only, which could be limiting if you use larger bottles. Also, the backpack’s dimensions (around 15 x 29 x 41 inches) seem somewhat large for a typical 20L bag, so checking airline carry-on size restrictions is advised. This backpack is well suited for business travelers and everyday commuters who want a sleek, well-organized, and water-resistant bag that can easily double as a personal item on flights. If you need extra comfort features or larger storage, there might be better options available.

The NOMATIC 30L Travel Bag is designed to offer versatility and convenience for travelers. It can be used both as a duffel bag and a backpack, making it quite flexible. Its carry-on size (12.99 x 9.06 x 19.69 inches) ensures it fits within airline regulations, and the weight of 3.31 pounds is fairly reasonable for a convertible bag. The fabric type, TPU, is durable, which adds to its longevity and makes it suitable for rough travel conditions.

One of its standout features is the TSA compliance, which simplifies airport security checks, particularly with its designated laptop compartment. Additionally, the bag boasts over 20 innovative pockets, including ones for shoes, liquids, and tech, which help in keeping things organized. This makes it a particularly good option for those who value organization and easy access to their belongings on the go.

Comfort is another key aspect, as it is designed to transition smoothly from being a duffel to a backpack, potentially providing better ergonomics depending on how it is carried. However, some may find the bag's minimalist design too simple and lacking in style variety. Moreover, while the weight is manageable, it may become cumbersome when fully packed due to its size and the number of compartments. This bag is best suited for frequent travelers and professionals who prioritize durability, organization, and the convenience of dual functionality.

The Samsonite Mother Lode Jr Backpack is a solid choice for travelers looking for a carry-on backpack that balances capacity and organization. With a 44-liter capacity, it offers plenty of space for packing, including a large main compartment with compression straps and a fold-down shelf to keep items secure and organized. It also expands slightly (by 1.5 inches), which can be handy if you need a little extra room. The backpack meets most airline carry-on size restrictions, making it travel-friendly.

Weighing around 2.22 kilograms (about 4.9 pounds), it’s not the lightest option out there but remains manageable for most users. The multiple compartments, including a front zip pocket with internal organizers and a key leash, plus side and exterior quick-grab pockets, offer good versatility for travel essentials and easy access to items like water bottles. The bag includes top, bottom, and side carry handles, giving you multiple ways to carry it.

The material quality typical of Samsonite products suggests durability, but heavier weight could be a factor for those prioritizing ultra-light gear. This backpack suits adult travelers who need a reliable, well-organized carry-on with ample space rather than those focused on ultra-light or minimalist options.