10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

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 Osprey Daylite Expandable 26+6 Travel Pack is a lightweight and durable choice for travelers seeking a versatile carry-on backpack. Weighing just 1.75 pounds, it is easy to carry without adding bulk, and its materials are designed to withstand frequent use. The pack starts with a 26-liter capacity but can expand by an additional 6 liters, providing extra space without worrying about airline size restrictions. Its size fits well as an international personal item, allowing it to be stored under the seat on most flights to avoid gate check hassles.

This backpack features one main compartment complemented by useful pockets, including two stretch water bottle holders and a front zip pocket for quick access to essentials. The padded AirScape back panel offers good ventilation and ergonomic support, helping keep your back comfortable during long travel days. While it has only a single main compartment, which might limit organization for those preferring many separate pockets, the included tech sleeve and luggage pass-through add convenience for travelers using rolling bags.

This backpack is well suited for travelers who prioritize lightweight comfort and flexible space within carry-on limits, especially for day trips or as an extra personal item on flights.

The MATEIN Weekender Backpack is designed for travelers who need a versatile and spacious carry-on option. It boasts a large capacity with an expandable feature, allowing up to 45L of storage space, which is ideal for packing cubes, clothes, and other travel essentials. This makes it suitable for weekend travelers and occasional vacationers. The backpack meets carry-on size requirements for several airlines, making it convenient for international travel.

Its convertible design includes hideaway padded shoulder straps, transforming it from a backpack to a briefcase, and a luggage strap for easier handling on trips. Weighing only 1.87 pounds, it is lightweight and features adjustable shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel for enhanced comfort during extended use. Multiple compartments, including a front pocket and internal compression straps, help organize and secure items, while external compression straps minimize movement inside the bag.

Made of water-resistant polyester with sturdy zippers and durable stitching, it is built for durability and can withstand various conditions. However, the large size and capacity might be excessive for those who prefer a more compact option. Additionally, the lack of more specialized compartments may not suit everyone’s needs. Its dimensions (19*13*8 inches) may also be cumbersome for smaller overhead bins, despite claims of fitting standard carry-on sizes.