Finding the best travel carry on backpack is essential for hassle-free adventures, whether you’re jetting off for a weekend getaway or a longer trip. A great carry on backpack combines practicality, comfort, and durability while meeting airline size requirements. We’ve tested and reviewed top picks that offer smart organization, secure compartments, and stylish designs to keep your essentials organized and accessible on the go.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Travel Carry On Backpack Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Coowoz Waterproof Travel Backpack for Men & Women, Carry On Hiking Daypack, Olive Green
The Coowoz Waterproof Travel Backpack blends durability with smart design. Crafted from waterproof polyester, it ensures your belongings stay dry, while its multiple compartments keep everything organized. Whether you’re hiking or flying, this olive green pack fits comfortably and offers dedicated spaces for laptops and shoes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Waterproof durable polyester material with good breathability
- ✓ Separate shoe compartment and wet bag to keep items organized and clean
- ✓ Two padded laptop compartments for 13” tablet and 15.6” laptop
- ✓ Multiple main pockets and smaller sections for versatile storage
- ✓ Padded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is perfect for travelers seeking a reliable, water-resistant option with excellent organization. Its shoe compartment is a thoughtful addition for keeping dirty footwear apart, and the dual laptop pockets add convenience for work or leisure trips.
Best For
Ideal for hikers and frequent fliers who need a robust, carry on backpack that can handle different environments and keep tech gear safe.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly water-resistant and durable
- Separate compartments for shoes and wet items
- Comfortable padded straps and breathable back panel
- Spacious with excellent organization options
Cons:
- Shoe compartment may be tight for larger shoe sizes
- The olive green color may not appeal to everyone
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Background: For work, I travel once a month west coast to Dallas for 3-4 days and once every other month I fly up the coast for 3-4 days. For personal I travel once a month weekend trip and fly 2-3 times a year for a week or so. I have used this backpack for 10-12 flights or weekends now. The bag works excellently.”
Customer Review: “I was flying on a service where one extra inch could cost you 50$, and then become considered a carry on bag, which I didn’t want to pay, so I needed a personal item sized bag with dimensions of 17x13x9 with room to pack for 8 days. Yes I literally searched 48 or more hours over one week’s span to find this.”
2. LOVEVOOK 40L Airline Approved Travel Backpack with TSA Lock & Packing Cubes, Waterproof Carry On Bag
The LOVEVOOK 40L Airline Approved Travel Backpack is designed with the traveler in mind, offering TSA-approved size and security features like a TSA lock. Its large capacity and multiple compartments, including packing cubes, make organization effortless. Water-resistant materials keep your gear protected.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 40L large capacity with 4 main compartments for versatile packing
- ✓ TSA-approved size (18x14x8 inches) suitable for most international flights
- ✓ Includes 3 packing cubes and wet pockets for better organization
- ✓ Durable waterproof design with secure TSA lock
- ✓ Comfortable adjustable straps and sturdy build
Why We Recommend It
This backpack shines for those who value security and organized packing. The TSA lock and packing cubes simplify travel logistics, while its roomy interior fits everything for a few days away. The waterproof material adds peace of mind for any weather.
Best For
Best for international travelers and business professionals who want a carry on that’s both secure and well-organized.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Spacious yet airline compliant
- Excellent organizational features with packing cubes
- TSA lock adds security for peace of mind
- Water-resistant and durable
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Color options may be limited
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I wanted to wait a few months before putting a review for this item (5 months after purchase). This backpack is very spacious, easy to open, functions as intended with lots of spots to organize stuff and fits both my iPad and gaming laptop just fine. The plastic pocket it has inside has kept my items safe.”
Customer Review: “Great backpack for traveling! It’s very roomy, has lots of pockets for storage, very sturdy, makes organizing easy, straps are adjustable, love the purple color.”
3. Taygeer TSA Approved Travel Backpack for Women with Shoe Pouch & Water Bottle Holder, 15.6″ Laptop
The Taygeer TSA Approved Travel Backpack is a budget-friendly option designed especially for women travelers. It stands out with its shoe pouch and water bottle holder, making it easy to separate and access your gear. The TSA-friendly laptop compartment speeds security checks, perfect for busy travel days.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ TSA-approved size with 180-degree zipper for security checkpoint convenience
- ✓ Bonus shoe bag and wet compartment for clean and dirty item separation
- ✓ Lightweight at 0.79 kg with multiple compartments and pockets
- ✓ Dedicated water bottle holder for easy hydration on the move
- ✓ Fits laptops up to 15.6 inches comfortably
Why We Recommend It
This backpack offers excellent value with features like shoe storage and TSA-friendly design that are often found in pricier models. Its lightweight and ergonomic design make it easy to carry for extended periods.
Best For
Great for budget-conscious female travelers who want a functional, stylish, and TSA-compliant backpack.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable without sacrificing key travel features
- Shoe pouch and wet pocket help keep things tidy
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Multiple compartments for excellent organization
Cons:
- Straps could be a bit more padded for heavier loads
- Limited color options available
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “What a great bargain this is!!! I love it, holds everything I need and lots of pockets and zippers. This is so much easier for travel and it’s extremely lightweight. Beautiful color too. Even has a charging port. Straps adjust nicely and the zippers work great.”
Customer Review: “This is a fabulous backpack! It has a perfect number of compartments and is very adjustable. It has worked as my personal bag on Frontier (and other airlines). I like the way it opens up completely all the way around like a mini suitcase.”
4. 50L Expandable Carry On Travel Backpack for Men & Women, TSA Approved Lightweight Business Weekender Bag
The 50L Expandable Carry On Travel Backpack boasts an expandable design to maximize packing space up to 50 liters. TSA-approved and lightweight, it features a lay-flat laptop compartment for quick airport checks and a separate shoe section to keep your clothes fresh.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Expandable capacity up to 50L for longer trips
- ✓ TSA-approved 180° lay-flat laptop compartment
- ✓ Separate shoe compartment for clean organization
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable materials
- ✓ Business weekender style with multiple compartments
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is perfect for travelers who want to pack more without sacrificing carry-on compliance. The lay-flat laptop section streamlines security checks, and the shoe compartment keeps your belongings neat.
Best For
Ideal for business travelers and weekend adventurers needing extra space and solid organization.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Expandable for additional packing capacity
- Easy TSA checkpoint access with lay-flat laptop compartment
- Separate shoe compartment keeps clothes clean
- Durable and lightweight construction
Cons:
- Heavier than smaller backpacks when fully packed
- No built-in USB charging port
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Got it as a travel gift and it was perfect! High quality bag with a TON of space. Was able to fit within carry-on standards and able to fit way more than I expected. If you’re trying to maximize space, I would suggest folding clothes tightly.”
Customer Review: “This is hands down the best travel backpack I’ve ever flown with. I used vacuum sealed packing cubes, so the amount of stuff that could fit in this bag was incredible! The interior is laid out like a small suitcase, making it easy to pack and stay organized.”
5. tomtoc 40L TSA Friendly Waterproof Travel Backpack, Lightweight Business Rucksack Fits 17.3″ Laptop, PFAS Free
The tomtoc 40L TSA Friendly Waterproof Travel Backpack offers a sleek, lightweight design that fits laptops up to 17.3 inches. Its PFAS-free materials make it environmentally friendly, while the TSA-friendly laptop compartment ensures smooth airport security checks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Large capacity with well-organized compartments
- ✓ TSA-friendly laptop compartment opening from 90° to 180°
- ✓ PFAS-free waterproof materials for safety and sustainability
- ✓ Quick-access front pocket for essentials on the go
- ✓ Lightweight design ideal for business and travel use
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is a great choice for travelers wanting an eco-conscious option without sacrificing convenience. Its TSA-friendly design and quick access pockets make airport navigation easier.
Best For
Perfect for business travelers and tech-savvy individuals who carry larger laptops and want a lightweight, organized backpack.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Eco-friendly PFAS-free waterproof material
- Spacious and well-organized compartments
- TSA-friendly laptop compartment for hassle-free security
- Lightweight and comfortable to carry
Cons:
- Back padding could be thicker for extra comfort
- Straps may feel narrow for heavier loads
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Comfort: it’s okay, not the best. The back padding is a little thin and the straps aren’t the best. If you put your laptop and tech gear in a little sloppily, you’ll feel it on your back. Laptop/tech space: Good enough. Large pouches good to hold 2 laptops/tablets.”
Customer Review: “I recently traveled from the Big Island of Hawaii to Sedona, and since I didn’t want to check in any luggage, I decided to travel with just my carry-on suitcase and this backpack. I really like this backpack. When packing, it opens wide like a duffel bag, which made it easy.”
6. LOVEVOOK 40L Waterproof Travel Backpack with TSA Lock & 3 Packing Cubes, Fits 17″ Laptop, Carry On
The LOVEVOOK 40L Waterproof Travel Backpack is a versatile, airline-approved carry on with TSA lock security and three packing cubes included. It offers ample room for a 17″ laptop and features wet compartments to keep things dry and organized.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Airline-approved size of 18 × 14 × 8 inches
- ✓ Waterproof material with TSA lock for secure travel
- ✓ Comes with 3 packing cubes and wet pockets for better organization
- ✓ Fits laptops up to 17 inches comfortably
- ✓ Multiple compartments for separating travel essentials
Why We Recommend It
This backpack offers exceptional organization and security features that make packing and airport navigation stress-free. The wet compartments and packing cubes help keep belongings neatly separated.
Best For
Best suited for travelers who want a waterproof, TSA-secure backpack with excellent packing organization.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Waterproof and secure with TSA lock
- Includes packing cubes for enhanced organization
- Spacious and airline approved size
- Comfortable adjustable straps
Cons:
- May be bulky for very short trips
- Heavier compared to minimalist backpacks
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Waited to review this until I flew – amazing! Fit so many things and it was fine for my personal item on Delta! She was PACKED and still fit under the seat. Great quality, color is as pictured, would definitely buy again! Straps were very comfy and adjustable.”
Customer Review: “Absolutely love this travel backpack! It’s the perfect size for weekend getaways. The backpack style makes it very easy to haul around and pick up and go in a hurry. I was happy that there were 2 smaller bags inside. One for personal undergarments and one to keep the dirty ones separated!”
7. Tolaccea 40L-50L TSA Approved Travel Backpack with Wet Dry Compartment, Expandable Laptop Duffel Bag
The Tolaccea 40L-50L TSA Approved Travel Backpack features an expandable design to adjust capacity as needed. It has a quick-access laptop compartment with shockproof padding and a wet-dry compartment for separating wet or dirty items.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Expandable storage from 40L to 50L for flexible packing
- ✓ TSA-friendly laptop compartment with shockproof protection
- ✓ Wet-dry compartment for clean and dirty item separation
- ✓ Durable construction and multiple carry options
- ✓ Meets carry-on size regulations for most airlines
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is tailored for travelers who want adaptable storage and protection for electronics. The wet-dry compartment is especially useful for active travel or rainy destinations.
Best For
Perfect for frequent travelers requiring versatile storage and laptop safety.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Expandable capacity for longer trips
- Excellent laptop protection with TSA-friendly access
- Wet/dry compartment adds convenience
- Multiple carrying options for comfort
Cons:
- Slightly bulky when fully expanded
- Heavier due to extra padding and features
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This a large backpack that has several compartments. It is well made and has multiple carry options including as a carry on for travel. It fits easily in overhead storage on airplanes. Design for backpack carry option displaces weight evenly with less stress on your back.”
Customer Review: “After extensive research, I decided on the Tolaccea backpack, and it exceeded my expectations. The construction is solid and well made, with clear attention to detail in both materials and stitching. It feels durable, reliable, and has great padding.”
8. 35L Expandable Carry On Travel Backpack for Airplanes, TSA Approved Business Weekender Luggage Bag
The 35L Expandable Carry On Travel Backpack combines a sleek business style with practical features. Its expandable design adds extra space when needed, and the TSA-approved size ensures smooth airport journeys. Waterproof compartments protect your tech and essentials.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Expandable width adds 2 inches for more packing space
- ✓ TSA-approved size perfect for airplanes
- ✓ Waterproof compartments and 17.3-inch laptop storage
- ✓ Sleek business weekender design with durable materials
- ✓ Multiple compartments for efficient organization
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is excellent for professionals who want a stylish, functional carry on with expandable space. It’s perfect for short business trips or weekend getaways.
Best For
Ideal for business travelers needing a compact yet expandable backpack.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sleek and professional look
- Expandable storage space
- Waterproof compartments protect valuables
- Fits laptops up to 17.3 inches
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Some users find zippers stiff initially
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently picked up this 35L carry-on travel backpack, and it has exceeded my expectations. The design is sleek, modern, and professional, making it perfect for both business trips and casual travel.”
Customer Review: “This was amazing for the price and otherwise. Amazing period! I ordered this for my husband at his request, 2 days before his flight, so he didn’t have to check a bag. Not only did it come the next day as promised, it was tightly packed in thick plastic.”
9. 42L TSA Friendly Travel Backpack with 4 Packing Cubes, Water-Resistant Carry On Bag Fits 17.3″ Laptop
The 42L TSA Friendly Travel Backpack offers ample packing space with four packing cubes and a water-resistant finish. Its TSA-friendly laptop compartment fits 17.3″ devices and opens fully for smooth security checks. A built-in USB charging port keeps your devices powered on the go.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Large 42L capacity with four packing cubes and separate shoe bag
- ✓ TSA-friendly laptop compartment with 90°-180° opening
- ✓ Water-resistant fabric for protection against moisture
- ✓ Built-in external USB charging port for device convenience
- ✓ Compatible with laptops up to 17.3 inches
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is ideal for tech-savvy travelers who want organized packing and the convenience of charging on the go. The water-resistant build and TSA compliance make it a versatile choice for most trips.
Best For
Best for gadget lovers and frequent flyers who need extra organization and power access.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Spacious with excellent packing organization
- TSA-friendly laptop compartment speeds security checks
- Water-resistant and durable
- Convenient built-in USB charging port
Cons:
- May be too large for short trips
- Charging port requires external power bank (not included)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The mix of black fabric with brown leather accents gives it a professional yet casual look. Material seems durable, great option if you need a multi-purpose backpack for work, short trips, or even carrying gear.”
Customer Review: “Personally, I like this travel backpack very much. It has a very large capacity and is very suitable for a relaxing short trip. But if you travel in winter, you need to bring a coat, which will not be enough.”
10. EMPSIGN TSA Friendly 17″ Laptop Travel Backpack with USB Port, Airline Approved Carry On Weekender Bag
The EMPSIGN TSA Friendly 17″ Laptop Travel Backpack combines large capacity with smart design. Its multi-pocket layout and integrated USB port make it an ideal choice for modern travelers. Approved by airlines and featuring multiple carry options, it fits comfortably as a personal item or carry on.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fits laptops up to 17 inches with TSA-friendly laptop compartment
- ✓ Integrated USB charging port for on-the-go device power
- ✓ Airline-approved size and lightweight design
- ✓ Multi-pocket design with side handles for versatile carrying
- ✓ Durable materials suitable for frequent travel
Why We Recommend It
This backpack is a great all-rounder for travelers who want convenience and functionality. The USB port and TSA-friendly design make security and charging effortless, while the multiple carry options add comfort.
Best For
Perfect for tech-savvy travelers and business people who want a versatile and modern carry on backpack.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large capacity with TSA-friendly laptop compartment
- Built-in USB charging port
- Multiple carrying methods for convenience
- Lightweight and airline approved
Cons:
- USB port requires external power bank
- Some users find it lacks extra padding for heavy loads
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Outstanding value! I used this as an under seater personal item on several flights already. I used compression packing cubes and was able to pack enough for a 5 day stay. I love the accessibility of the large outside pocket which I used in place of a purse.”
Customer Review: “I am so happy with this purchase. I seriously ordered and set back five different carry-on/backpack style cases before I landed on this one. I’ve always struggled with a bag, not having enough pocket space where I needed that or having to dig through to find things.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Travel Carry On Backpack
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best travel carry on backpack, size and airline compliance are crucial. Look for TSA-approved dimensions to avoid surprises at the gate. Material quality matters; waterproof and durable fabrics protect your belongings from weather and rough handling. Comfort features like padded straps and breathable back panels make a big difference on long treks. Organizational compartments, including laptop sleeves and separate shoe sections, help keep your gear tidy and accessible.
Budget Planning
Carry on backpacks come in a range of prices. Budget models often offer essential features with fewer extras, while premium backpacks may include TSA locks, USB charging ports, and advanced materials. Identify your travel frequency and needs to balance cost and features. Investing in a quality backpack can save money long term by avoiding baggage fees and replacing worn-out bags less frequently.
Final Thoughts
The best travel carry on backpack suits your unique travel style. Whether you prioritize organization, security, or comfort, there’s a backpack that fits your needs. Consider how you pack, the tech you carry, and the environments you visit. With the right backpack, travel becomes easier, more enjoyable, and organized every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size should a carry on backpack be to fit airline requirements?
A: Most airlines allow carry on bags around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but personal item size is typically smaller. Look for TSA-approved backpacks that meet these dimensions to ensure hassle-free boarding.
Q: Are waterproof backpacks better for travel?
A: Yes, waterproof backpacks protect your belongings from rain, spills, and unexpected weather, making them ideal for travel in varied climates.
Q: How important are TSA-approved laptop compartments?
A: Very important. TSA-approved compartments allow you to keep your laptop in the bag during security checks, speeding up the process and reducing hassle.
Q: Can I use a carry on backpack for hiking as well?
A: Some carry on backpacks are versatile enough for hiking, especially those with durable materials, comfortable straps, and compartments for gear. However, hiking-specific backpacks offer features tailored for outdoor activities.
Q: Is it worth buying a backpack with a USB charging port?
A: If you travel frequently and use electronic devices, a built-in USB charging port is a convenient feature, allowing you to charge devices on the go with an external power bank.
Choosing the best travel carry on backpack can transform your travel experience, making packing easier and airport navigation smoother. Our top picks combine durability, organization, and comfort to meet diverse travel needs. Ready to upgrade your travel gear? Click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons to find your perfect backpack today!