10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2026 in the United States

The Thule Aion Travel Backpack is a solid choice for travelers looking for a functional and stylish carry-on option. With a capacity of 40 liters, it offers ample space for personal items, making it ideal for short trips or as an additional bag for your travels. One of its standout features is the use of 100% recycled polyester and a durable water-resistant coating, which not only supports eco-friendly practices but also helps keep your belongings protected from the elements. The removable TPU rolltop bag allows for additional organization, helping users keep items separate and easily accessible. This is particularly useful for travelers who want to streamline their packing.

On the comfort front, the backpack is designed with padded storage that can accommodate a 15.6-inch laptop and a 12.9-inch tablet, ensuring your tech gear is safe during transit. However, the optional Thule Aion Sling Bag, sold separately for use as a hipbelt, might not be necessary for everyone and can add to the overall cost if you choose to purchase it.

While the Thule Aion Backpack has many strengths, it’s essential to consider its weight of 1215 grams (approximately 2.68 lbs). This might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially when fully packed. Additionally, the size dimensions (6.3 x 13.78 x 21.65 inches) are relatively standard, but could be a tight fit in some airline overhead compartments, depending on the specific airline regulations.

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 NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag is a versatile and thoughtfully designed carry-on backpack that works well for frequent travelers and everyday use. With a capacity of 40 liters, it hits the sweet spot for carry-on size, fitting airline requirements comfortably. Weighing about 3.4 pounds, it strikes a good balance—not too heavy when empty, yet sturdy enough for travel. Made from durable polyester, it promises long-lasting use and resistance to wear, which is a big plus for rough travel conditions. One of its standout features is the ability to convert easily between a duffel and a backpack, giving you flexibility depending on how you want to carry it. The bag includes over 20 specialized compartments, including designated spaces for shoes, liquids, tech gear, and a laptop, which helps keep your belongings organized and easy to access—perfect for business trips or daily commuting. It also has TSA-compliant features like a luggage strap, speeding up airport security checks.

The olive color and sleek, minimalist look add a stylish touch without being flashy. A minor consideration is that at 22 x 9 x 14 inches, it’s on the larger side of carry-ons, so if you pack very light, it might feel bulky. This bag is a solid choice for travelers who want a reliable, well-organized, and adaptable backpack that doubles as a duffel, especially if you often carry tech gear and appreciate smart organization.