10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2026 in the United States

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.

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 Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L is a versatile carry-on backpack designed to handle weekend or even week-long trips with ease. Its 40-liter capacity fits within most airline carry-on size limits, making it a good choice for travelers who prefer to avoid checked baggage. Weighing about 3 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight considering the durable materials used, such as recycled nylon and ballistic nylon, which promise strength and long-lasting use. The bag offers multiple compartments including internal mesh pockets, a secure zippered pocket, and an external laptop sleeve, helping keep your belongings organized and easy to access. Comfort is enhanced with three carrying options: backpack straps, a shoulder strap, and grab handles, so you can switch depending on your preference or situation.

The bag is well-built and functional, although its boxy shape and firm materials might make it a bit stiff when not fully packed. Some users might find the 40-liter volume on the larger side if they prefer a more compact bag. The price point reflects its quality and warranty but might be higher than simpler carry-ons. For travelers seeking a sturdy, well-organized, and carry-on compliant bag that adapts to different carrying styles, this is a solid choice for frequent travelers or those who like to pack smartly for short trips.