Finding the best carry-on backpacks changed the way I travel. I used to wrestle with rolling suitcases on cobblestone streets, drag them up narrow hostel staircases, and pray they would fit in the overhead bin. Then I switched to one-bag travel and never looked back.
Our team spent three months testing 8 carry-on travel backpacks across domestic flights, international routes, weekend road trips, and daily commutes. We packed each bag for 3 to 7 days of clothing, shoved them under airplane seats, ran them through TSA checkpoints, and lived out of them in hotels, Airbnbs, and tents.
If you are looking for the best carry-on backpacks for 2026, this guide covers everything from budget picks under $25 to premium options with recycled materials and YKK zippers. Whether you need a TSA-friendly laptop compartment, a clamshell opening for easy packing, or an expandable design that grows from 35L to 50L, we have a recommendation that fits your travel style and budget.
Top 3 Picks for Best Carry-On Backpacks in 2026
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L
- 40L TSA-friendly
- Recycled YKK fabric
- Fits 17.3 inch laptop
- Clamshell opening
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack
- 40L airline approved
- 3 packing cubes included
- Waterproof material
- Fits 17 inch laptop
These three stood out from the pack. The tomtoc earned our Editor’s Choice for its premium build quality and eco-friendly recycled materials. The MATEIN takes Best Value with 14,000-plus reviews at a remarkably low price. And the LOVEVOOK earned the highest rating in our test pool at 4.8 stars.
Best Carry-On Backpacks in September
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| MATEIN Carry on Backpack |
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 Gieury 50L Travel Backpack |
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 Velaybor 42L Travel Backpack |
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| LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack |
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 MOZETO Tactical Travel Backpack |
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 Rcrirth Carry On Travel Backpack |
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 Tolaccea Travel Backpack |
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| tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L |
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Each bag in this comparison meets airline carry-on requirements for major carriers. Capacities range from 30L to 50L, giving you options whether you are a minimalist one-bag traveler or someone who needs maximum packing volume for longer trips.
1. MATEIN Carry on Backpack: Best Value Carry-On Under $25
MATEIN Carry on Backpack, Extra Large Expandable Travel Backpack for Men
40-45L expandable
Water resistant polyester
Fits 17 inch laptop
2.2 lbs
19x13x8 inches
Pros
- Expandable 40L to 45L capacity
- Hideaway padded shoulder straps
- Luggage strap for suitcase attachment
- Lockable zipper heads
- Air-mesh ventilated back panel
Cons
- No hip belt for weight distribution
- No water bottle pocket
- Shoulder straps close together for broad shoulders
I tested the MATEIN carry-on backpack on a 5-day trip to Chicago and was genuinely surprised by how much it held. With 14,000-plus reviews and a 4.7-star rating, I expected decent quality for the price. What I got was a bag that packed like a suitcase and carried like a backpack.
The expandable design is the standout feature. At 40L it fits airline carry-on requirements comfortably. Unzip the expansion and you get 45L for road trips where airline compliance does not matter. The hideaway straps let you convert it from backpack to briefcase style when you want a different carry option.
The water-resistant polyester held up during a surprise rainstorm walking from the train station to my hotel. Nothing inside got wet. The air-mesh ventilated back panel kept my back from getting completely soaked during that same downpour.
What I did miss was a water bottle pocket. That seems like an odd omission for a travel backpack. The shoulder straps also sit a bit close together, which could be uncomfortable if you have broader shoulders. And there is no hip belt, so all the weight rides on your shoulders.
Who should buy the MATEIN carry-on backpack
This is the best carry-on backpack for budget-conscious travelers and first-time one-bag converters. If you want to try one-bag travel without spending $80 or more, this is where you start. The 4 external compression straps and internal elastic straps keep everything compact for flights.
It also works well as a backup bag. Keep it folded in your closet for when you need a reliable weekender without investing in a premium travel pack.
Who should skip the MATEIN carry-on backpack
Frequent long-haul travelers may want more comfort features. Without a hip belt, carrying this fully loaded for extended walking gets tiring. If you plan to walk miles with your bag between transit and accommodation, look at options with better load distribution.
The lack of organization depth also frustrated me. There are compartments, but none of the smart touches you find in pricier bags like dedicated tech sleeves or quick-access pockets for documents.
2. Gieury 50L Travel Backpack: Biggest Capacity Carry-On
Carry On Backpack TSA Flight Approved, Large Travel Backpack for Men Women
40-50L expandable
Water repellent polyester
Fits 17.3 inch laptop
2.2 lbs
20x14x8 inches
Pros
- Massive 50L expanded capacity
- TSA 180-degree lay-flat laptop section
- Dedicated bottom shoe compartment
- Smart 7-compartment organization
- Water-repellent material
Cons
- Shoulder straps do not fully hide
- No hip belt
- Side water bottle pocket not stretchy
The Gieury caught my attention because of that 50L capacity. Most carry-on backpacks max out around 40L. Gieury gives you 40L in standard mode and expands to 50L when you need it. I packed for a full week of mixed business and casual wear without struggling.
The TSA 180-degree laptop compartment is a feature I now consider essential. You lay the bag flat, unzip, and your laptop is visible for security without removing it. I sailed through TSA checkpoints at three different airports with zero hassle.
The bottom shoe compartment is brilliant. I separated my gym shoes from my clothes and avoided the classic plastic-bag workaround. The compartment fits shoes up to size 12, which covers most travelers.
My main complaint is that the shoulder straps do not fully hide away. They tuck partially but still stick out, making the bag look unfinished when you carry it by the handle. The side water bottle pocket also felt stiff and did not stretch to accommodate larger bottles.
Who should buy the Gieury 50L backpack
This is the best carry-on backpack for travelers who need maximum packing volume. If you regularly take 4 to 7-day trips and hate doing laundry on the road, that extra 10L of expansion space solves your problem.
The shoe compartment also makes this ideal for gym-goers and fitness travelers who need to keep sweaty gear separate from clean clothes.
Who should skip the Gieury 50L backpack
If you fly budget airlines with strict personal item dimensions, the 50L expanded size will not qualify. You would need to keep it in 40L mode for those flights. The bag also weighs slightly over 2 lbs empty, which adds up when you are a light packer.
Travelers who want a clean, briefcase-like look when carrying by handle will be disappointed by the exposed straps.
3. Velaybor 42L Travel Backpack: Best Carry-On With Packing Cubes
Velaybor 42L Carry On Travel Backpack With 4 Packing Cubes, TSA Friendly
42L with 4 packing cubes
Water resistant nylon
Fits 17.3 inch laptop
3.1 lbs
20x13.5x8.5 inches
Pros
- Includes 3 packing cubes and 1 shoe bag
- TSA friendly 90-180 degree opening
- OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified
- Professional leather accent design
- Ergonomic padded back panel
Cons
- Side water bottle pocket tight for large bottles
- No hip belt
- May have slight chemical smell initially
- Interior wet compartment placement not ideal
The Velaybor comes with 4 packing accessories right in the box. That is a detail most competitors skip. I used the included packing cubes for a weekend trip and they transformed how I organized my clothes inside the main compartment.
The OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certification stood out to me. This means the materials are tested for harmful substances, which matters if you have sensitive skin or care about chemical safety in your travel gear. The leather accents give it a professional look that works for business meetings.
The TSA-friendly laptop compartment opens between 90 and 180 degrees depending on how much you need to access. I appreciated the flexibility. At airport security, the full 180-degree opening made laptop scanning effortless.
The ergonomic padded back panel was comfortable for a 20-minute walk from the airport to my hotel. My only real complaint during testing was a slight chemical smell when I first unboxed the bag. I aired it out overnight and the smell disappeared completely by morning.
Who should buy the Velaybor 42L backpack
Travelers who want a complete packing system will love this. The included cubes and shoe bag save you $20 to $30 compared to buying them separately. The professional appearance also makes this a strong choice for business travelers.
If you care about material safety certifications, the OEKO-TEX standard gives you peace of mind that cheaper bags cannot match.
Who should skip the Velaybor 42L backpack
At 3.1 lbs, this is one of the heavier bags in our test. Ultralight packers who count every ounce will notice the difference. The tight water bottle pocket also frustrated me when I tried to fit a larger insulated bottle.
If you are sensitive to new-product smells, plan to air this bag out before your first trip.
4. LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack: Highest Rated in Our Test
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack for Women & Men, Airline Approved Carry On Luggage with 3 Packing Cubes, TSA Overnight Bags, Waterproof Personal Item Bag, Weekender Essentials Backpacks fits 17″ Laptop
40L airline approved
Waterproof nylon
Fits 17 inch laptop
2.18 lbs
18x14x8 inches
Pros
- Approved by Spirit Frontier JetBlue
- Spacious 40L for 3-7 day trips
- Includes 3 packing cubes
- Built-in wet compartment
- Waterproof material
- 18 pockets for organization
Cons
- May be too large for small body frames
- No hidden passport pocket
- No chest clip
- Limited back panel padding
The LOVEVOOK earned the highest rating in our entire test pool at 4.8 stars across 3,200-plus reviews. After testing it, I understand why. This bag hits a sweet spot between capacity, organization, and price that few competitors match.
What sold me was the airline approval list. LOVEVOOK specifically tested this bag against Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue, three of the strictest budget carriers. If you fly budget airlines regularly, you know how stressful the baggage sizer can be. This bag fits.
The 40L capacity handled a 5-day trip with room to spare. The 18 pockets sound excessive but I used every single one. The built-in wet compartment separated my swimsuit and towel from dry clothes after a pool day. That feature alone makes this bag worth considering over simpler designs.
The waterproof material is not just water-resistant. It is fully waterproof. I tested this by accidentally leaving the bag on a wet bathroom floor. Everything inside stayed completely dry. The 3 included packing cubes added another layer of organization that I did not expect at this price.
Who should buy the LOVEVOOK 40L backpack
Budget airline frequent flyers, this is your bag. The explicit Spirit and Frontier approval removes the sizer anxiety. It is also the best carry-on backpack for organized packers who love pockets and compartments.
The waterproof material makes it ideal for adventure travel, beach trips, and destinations where rain is likely.
Who should skip the LOVEVOOK 40L backpack
Smaller-framed travelers reported the bag feels large on their back. Without a chest clip, the shoulder straps can shift during longer walks. If you are under 5 foot 4, consider how 40L will feel on your frame before committing.
The limited back panel padding also means you feel the contents against your back on longer carries.
5. MOZETO Tactical Travel Backpack: Best Tactical-Style Carry-On
MOZETO TSA Approved Carry On Backpack, Extra Large Tactical Travel Backpack for Men, Airplane Approved Weekender Bag for Flight (Black)
30L capacity
Military-spec nylon
Fits 17 inch laptop
2.18 lbs
18x14x8 inches
Pros
- 180-degree clamshell opening
- Built-in USB charging port
- Military-spec nylon with YKK zippers
- Wet-dry separation zone
- MOLLE webbing for attachments
- Anti-theft back panel pocket
Cons
- Zippers may have quality control issues
- Too many pockets can confuse organization
- Durability concerns under heavy use
The MOZETO brings a tactical aesthetic to carry-on travel. The military-spec nylon and MOLLE webbing give it a rugged look that stands apart from typical black travel backpacks. I tested it on a camping trip that involved flights, hikes, and urban exploration.
The 180-degree clamshell opening is my favorite feature on this bag. It opens flat like a suitcase, which makes packing and unpacking dramatically easier than top-loading designs. I could see everything at once instead of digging through layers.
The built-in USB charging port is a feature I did not know I needed. I connected my power bank inside the bag and charged my phone through the external port while walking through the airport. No more digging for my battery pack at the gate.
The MOLLE webbing let me attach a carabiner clip for extra gear. The anti-theft back panel pocket held my passport and wallet securely against my body in crowded areas. These tactical details make this bag feel purpose-built for adventurous travel.
Who should buy the MOZETO tactical backpack
Adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the tactical design language. If your trips mix flights with hiking, camping, or fieldwork, the MOLLE webbing and rugged nylon construction make this bag versatile beyond airport travel.
The USB charging port also makes this ideal for digital nomads who need to keep devices powered during long travel days.
Who should skip the MOZETO tactical backpack
At 30L, this is the smallest bag in our test. If you need more than a 2 to 3-day packing capacity, look at the 40L and 50L options. Some users also reported zipper quality control issues, so inspect your bag carefully upon arrival.
The tactical look is not for everyone. If you need a bag that blends into business environments, the military styling may feel out of place.
6. Rcrirth Carry On Travel Backpack: Best for Organization
Rcrirth Carry On Travel Backpack Flight Approved for Men Women, Black
35-40L expandable
Water resistant polyester
Fits 17.3 inch laptop
2 lbs
18x12x9 inches
Pros
- Expandable from 35L to 40L
- TSA approved 180-degree opening
- Hidden back pocket for valuables
- 7 zippered compartments
- Comfortable padded straps
- Fits under seat or overhead bin
Cons
- Side straps can come apart easily
- Black color runs hot in sunlight
- Black zipper pulls hard to see
The Rcrirth earned its Best for Organization badge through sheer pocket count. With 7 zippered compartments, everything I packed had a designated home. I never once lost track of where my charger, documents, or headphones were during a 4-day trip.
The expandable design shifts from 35L to 40L with a single zipper. I used 35L mode for a weekend trip and expanded to 40L when I added souvenirs on the return flight. The hidden back pocket held my passport and emergency cash securely against my back.
The TSA-approved 180-degree opening made airport security painless. I also appreciate that this bag fits under the seat on most airlines, qualifying as a personal item on carriers that allow it. That gives you flexibility depending on your ticket type.
The black-on-black zipper pulls were my biggest frustration. In low light, finding the right zipper required feeling around blindly. The side compression straps also felt flimsy and one started to separate during my second week of testing.
Who should buy the Rcrirth travel backpack
Organization-focused travelers will love the 7-compartment layout. If you are the type who assigns specific pockets to specific items, this bag was designed for your brain. The expandable capacity also makes it versatile for both short and medium trips.
Under-seat compatibility makes this a strong pick for basic economy travelers who only get a personal item.
Who should skip the Rcrirth travel backpack
The black color absorbs heat aggressively in direct sunlight. If you travel in hot climates and leave your bag in the sun, contents can get warm. The side strap durability is also a concern for heavy users.
If you need to access specific pockets quickly in dim lighting, the black zipper pulls will frustrate you.
7. Tolaccea Travel Backpack: Premium Pick With Wet-Dry Compartments
Tolaccea Travel Backpack, TSA Friendly Flight Approved Carry-on Luggage Durable Large Laptop Bag Daypack Fits 15.6 Inch Computer, Water-resistant Business Rucksack, 35-45L Expandable – Grey
35-45L expandable
Water repellent polyester
Fits 15.6 inch laptop
3.09 lbs
20.5x12.6x8.7 inches
Pros
- Expandable 35L to 45L capacity
- Suspended shockproof laptop sleeve
- Aluminum-lined wet-dry compartments
- Side-access zipper for quick laptop retrieval
- YKK zippers
- Size 13 shoe storage
Cons
- No waist strap for heavy loads
- Straps do not stow away
- Front pocket needs organization
- Heavy when fully packed
The Tolaccea is the most feature-dense bag in our test. Every design choice seems intentional, from the aluminum-lined wet-dry compartments to the suspended shockproof laptop sleeve. I tested it on a business trip where I needed to protect a laptop and transport gym clothes.
The suspended laptop sleeve floats your computer above the bottom of the bag. This means if you set the bag down hard, the laptop never hits the ground. That level of protection gave me confidence carrying my work laptop through busy transit hubs.
The side-access zipper lets you grab your laptop without opening the main compartment. I used this feature constantly during meetings, pulling my laptop out discreetly without rummaging through the bag. The wet-dry compartments kept my post-workout clothes isolated with aluminum lining that prevented odor transfer.
At 3.09 lbs empty, this is the heaviest bag in our test. Fully packed, the weight adds up quickly. Without a waist strap, all of that weight sits on your shoulders. I felt it after a 30-minute walk through the airport terminal.
Who should buy the Tolaccea travel backpack
Business travelers who carry expensive laptops will appreciate the suspended sleeve and side-access design. The wet-dry compartments also make this ideal for fitness travelers who need serious odor isolation.
If you want premium features without paying $150-plus for brands like Peak Design or Aer, this is your middle-ground option.
Who should skip the Tolaccea travel backpack
The 3.09 lb empty weight is a dealbreaker for ultralight packers. Combined with no waist strap, this bag gets uncomfortable on long carries. The 4.4-star rating is the lowest in our test, partly due to quality control reports about sticky zippers on new bags.
If you want a bag that converts to a clean briefcase look, the non-stowable straps will annoy you.
8. tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L: Our Editor’s Choice
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Carry On Bag Flight Approved, PFAS Free
40L TSA friendly
Recycled PET fabric
Fits 17.3 inch laptop
2.64 lbs
20.5x13x9 inches
Pros
- Premium YKK zippers and recycled fabric
- TSA friendly 90-180 degree opening
- 3D padded breathable back panel
- Clamshell main compartment
- Dedicated tech compartment for laptop and iPad
- Eco-friendly PFAS free construction
Cons
- No waist belt for heavy loads
- Could use more laptop-side organization
- No inside key chain clip
- Side water bottle pockets shallow
The tomtoc earned our Editor’s Choice through a combination of build quality, thoughtful design, and eco-friendly materials. After testing 8 bags over 3 months, this is the one I kept using after the test ended. It just works.
The recycled PET fabric feels premium in hand. tomtoc uses recycled YKK fabric throughout, and the construction quality shows in every stitch. This is the only bag in our test that is PFAS free, meaning no harmful forever chemicals in the water-resistant coating.
The dedicated tech compartment holds a 17-inch laptop and a 13-inch iPad simultaneously. The TSA-friendly opening lets the compartment lay flat at security. I never had to remove my laptop at any of the 6 airports I passed through during testing.
The 3D padded back panel is the most comfortable of any bag we tested. The breathable design kept air moving between the bag and my back during a 45-minute walk through Phoenix in July. The sternum strap helped distribute weight effectively across my upper body.
Who should buy the tomtoc 40L backpack
This is the best carry-on backpack for tech-savvy travelers who carry multiple devices. The dedicated laptop and iPad compartment is unmatched in this price range. Eco-conscious travelers will also appreciate the recycled materials and PFAS-free construction.
If you want a bag that competes with $200-plus premium brands at a fraction of the cost, this is your pick. The 4,490 reviews at 4.7 stars confirm the quality is consistent.
Who should skip the tomtoc 40L backpack
Budget travelers can find capable bags for a third of this price. The MATEIN and Gieury both handle basic carry-on needs at significant savings. If you do not carry multiple devices or care about recycled materials, you are paying for features you may not use.
The lack of a waist belt means long-distance carrying with a full load still gets tiring, despite the excellent back panel.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Carry-On Backpack?
Choosing from the best carry-on backpacks means understanding what actually matters for your travel style. After testing 8 bags across dozens of trips, here are the factors that made the biggest difference in real-world use.
Capacity: What Size Do You Actually Need?
Carry-on backpacks typically range from 30L to 50L. The right size depends on your trip length and packing style. For weekend trips of 1 to 3 days, a 30L to 35L bag like the MOZETO or Rcrirth handles the essentials comfortably.
For 3 to 7 day trips, aim for 40L. This is the sweet spot that fits airline carry-on requirements while giving you enough space for a week of clothing. The MATEIN, LOVEVOOK, and tomtoc all hit this mark. Bags like the Gieury with 50L expansion give you flexibility for longer trips or souvenir shopping.
Going above 45L risks airline compliance issues. Most domestic carriers allow carry-on bags up to 22 by 14 by 9 inches. International carriers can be stricter, sometimes limiting carry-ons to 55cm total linear dimensions.
Airline Compliance: Will It Fit?
TSA approval and airline compliance are different things. TSA-approved means the laptop compartment opens flat for security screening. Airline carry-on compliance means the bag fits in the overhead bin or under the seat.
Budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Allegiant have the strictest dimensions. The LOVEVOOK is explicitly approved for Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue. If you fly budget carriers regularly, verify the bag dimensions against your airline’s personal item and carry-on limits before buying.
For international travel, look for bags under 22 inches tall. European budget carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet have aggressive size restrictions that catch American travelers off guard.
Opening Style: Clamshell vs Top Loading
Clamshell opening means the bag opens flat like a suitcase. This is the design I strongly prefer after testing both styles. You can see and access everything at once without unpacking. The MOZETO, Tolaccea, and tomtoc all use clamshell designs.
Top-loading bags require you to dig through layers to reach items at the bottom. This gets frustrating fast during travel. Most modern carry-on backpacks have moved to clamshell or half-zip designs for this reason.
If you plan to live out of your bag for multiple days, clamshell is not optional. It is essential.
Laptop Protection: TSA-Friendly Features
A TSA-friendly laptop compartment opens 180 degrees so you can leave your laptop in the bag during security screening. This saves time and reduces the risk of forgetting your laptop at the checkpoint.
Look for suspended laptop sleeves that float your device above the bottom of the bag. The Tolaccea’s suspended shockproof sleeve is the best example in our test. If the bag drops, the laptop never contacts the ground.
Check the maximum laptop size. Our test bags accommodate laptops from 15.6 inches to 17.3 inches. If you have a larger gaming or workstation laptop, verify compatibility before purchasing.
Materials and Durability
Polyester and nylon are the dominant materials in this price range. Nylon tends to be more durable and water-resistant. The MOZETO uses military-spec nylon with YKK zippers, which is a combination built for long-term abuse.
YKK zippers are the gold standard. They resist snagging, splitting, and breaking better than generic zippers. The tomtoc, MOZETO, and Tolaccea all use YKK zippers. This is a detail that separates bags that last years from bags that last months.
Water resistance matters more than you think. The LOVEVOOK’s fully waterproof material saved my clothes during a downpour. Water-resistant bags like the MATEIN handle light rain but soak through in heavy weather.
Comfort: Straps, Back Panel, and Weight Distribution
A comfortable carry-on backpack needs padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and ideally a sternum strap. None of the bags in our test include a hip belt, which means all weight rides on your shoulders.
The tomtoc’s 3D padded back panel was the most comfortable during extended carries. The MOZETO’s ergonomic design also impressed me. Cheaper bags like the MATEIN have adequate padding but lack the breathability of pricier options.
Pay attention to empty weight. The Tolaccea weighs 3.09 lbs before you pack anything. The MATEIN and Rcrirth both come in around 2 lbs. That difference adds up when you are already carrying 15 lbs of gear.
Organization and Extras
Look for features that match your travel style. Packing cubes included with the bag save money and improve organization. The Velaybor includes 4 cubes and the LOVEVOOK includes 3.
Wet compartments separate damp items from dry clothes. The LOVEVOOK, MOZETO, and Tolaccea all include dedicated wet storage. USB charging ports on the MOZETO keep your devices powered without opening the bag.
Hidden security pockets on the back panel protect passports and cash in crowded areas. The MOZETO and Rcrirth both include this feature.
FAQs
What size backpack is best for carry-on?
The best carry-on backpack size is 40L, which typically measures around 18 to 20 inches tall. This capacity fits 3 to 7 days of clothing while meeting airline carry-on requirements for most domestic carriers. Bags between 35L and 45L offer the best balance of packing capacity and airline compliance.
What size backpack is TSA approved for carry-on?
TSA-approved carry-on backpacks should measure no more than 22 by 14 by 9 inches to fit in overhead bins. For personal items that go under the seat, aim for 18 by 14 by 8 inches or smaller. A TSA-friendly laptop compartment that opens 180 degrees lets you keep your laptop in the bag during security screening.
What are the drawbacks of using a carry-on backpack?
The main drawbacks of carry-on backpacks are weight distribution without a hip belt, limited capacity compared to rolling luggage, and potential discomfort during long carries. Most carry-on backpacks lack waist belts, meaning all weight sits on your shoulders. You also sacrifice packing volume for portability and airline compliance.
Who makes the best carry-on backpacks?
For budget options under $40, MATEIN and LOVEVOOK make excellent carry-on backpacks with strong ratings. For premium features at mid-range prices, tomtoc leads with recycled materials and YKK construction. The best brand depends on your budget, trip length, and whether you prioritize organization, capacity, or comfort.
Are carry-on backpacks worth it compared to rolling luggage?
Yes, carry-on backpacks are worth it for most travelers. They eliminate baggage fees, move easily over uneven surfaces like cobblestones and stairs, keep belongings with you at all times, and double as a daypack at your destination. The trade-off is carrying weight on your shoulders instead of rolling it.
Final Thoughts on the Best Carry-On Backpacks for 2026
After 3 months of testing, the tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L remains our top pick for the best carry-on backpacks in 2026. Its recycled materials, YKK zippers, and TSA-friendly design hit every mark. For budget travelers, the MATEIN at under $25 delivers remarkable value with 14,000-plus reviews backing it up.
If you want maximum capacity, the Gieury’s 50L expansion handles week-long trips. If airline compliance is your top priority, the LOVEVOOK is explicitly approved by Spirit and Frontier. Whatever your travel style, one of these 8 bags will get you through security, onto the plane, and to your destination without checked baggage.