10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The Osprey Fairview 36L Women's Wheeled Travel Backpack is designed as a versatile and convenient carry-on option, especially for those who want the flexibility of wheeling their luggage or carrying it on their back when needed. It meets the common carry-on size limits, measuring about 22 x 14 x 9 inches and holding 36 liters, which is enough space for a short trip or light packing. Weighing just over 5 pounds, it strikes a good balance between being sturdy and not too heavy to carry. Made from durable polyester, this backpack can handle rough travel conditions and should last a long time.

It features two main compartments, which is a bit limited if you prefer highly segmented packing, but it keeps things simple and straightforward. The backpack is comfortable to carry thanks to its padded shoulder straps, hipbelt, and a mesh backpanel that can be stowed away when you prefer to wheel it instead. Also, its design allows attaching extra smaller packs if you need more space.

The wheeled option is smooth and useful for airports or paved surfaces, while the backpack straps provide freedom on uneven terrain. One downside might be the limited compartments for organizing smaller items, which could be less convenient for travelers who like many pockets. This pack suits travelers looking for a durable, lightweight, and versatile carry-on that can adapt to different travel scenarios, particularly those who value comfort during longer walks or transfers.

The MATEIN 45L Travel Backpack is a solid choice for travelers looking for a large, versatile carry-on bag. Its 20 x 13.4 x 8.6 inch size meets most airline carry-on requirements and offers expandable storage, which is great if you need extra packing space for weekend trips or business travel. Weighing just over 2 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry comfortably without adding much bulk. The backpack is made from water-resistant polyester, which helps protect your belongings from light rain or splashes, and the strong zippers add durability for frequent use.

This backpack shines in organization, with a large main compartment featuring compression straps to keep your items secure and multiple pockets for smaller essentials like your phone or earphones. The convertible design is a neat feature—hideaway straps let you switch from backpack to briefcase style, and a luggage strap lets you easily attach it to rolling suitcases, making airport navigation smoother. Comfort is taken care of with padded, adjustable shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel to reduce sweat, and a sternum strap to distribute weight evenly on your chest.

On the downside, while its size is generous, it might be a bit bulky for travelers who prefer minimalism or need to fit this under tighter airline seat spaces. The material, though water-resistant, isn’t fully waterproof, so heavy rain could still be a challenge. Also, the backpack’s style is somewhat plain, which might not appeal to those wanting a more fashionable look. This backpack is a practical and comfortable option ideal for weekend travelers, business commuters, or anyone who needs a durable, expandable carry-on. Its thoughtful features and solid construction make it a dependable travel companion, especially for those who value flexibility and organization.

The coowoz Travel Backpack is a versatile and practical option for short trips or daily use, especially for travelers who want a lightweight, comfortable carry-on backpack. It’s made from waterproof polyester, which helps protect your belongings from rain and makes the bag durable over time. The padded shoulder straps improve comfort during longer wear, and the material also allows good air flow to keep you cool. At about 2.2 pounds, it’s light enough to carry around without feeling heavy.

The backpack offers multiple compartments including a wet bag for separating damp items and a separate shoe compartment, which is very handy for travel and sports activities. It also has two laptop sections that fit a tablet and a 15.6-inch laptop, making it suitable for work or study on the go. The size is designed to hold about 1-2 days worth of clothes and essentials, with dimensions around 17 x 31 x 42 inches, though the exact capacity is noted between 17 and 25 liters. This size works well for short getaways but might be tight for longer trips.

Some users might find the bag’s design more casual than sleek, which suits outdoorsy or everyday use better than formal business travel. The backpack excels in versatility, comfort, and protective features but may have minor inconsistencies in size details and is best suited for travelers needing a compact, organized bag for short trips or daily activities.