21 Best Carry-On Backpacks for Travel

As photographers, sometimes we can even be surprised by how much gear we need to pack. Especially when travelling, you might find yourself hit with that fear: "Will my carry-on travel backpack fit in the overhead bin?" or “does a backpack count as a carry-on?”

After all, you'll likely stuff your carry-on backpack with lenses, tripods, and a whole manner of other camera accessories. I’m sure you don’t even want to think about clothes and food.

However, you really don't need to worry. There are dozens of great carry-on luggage backpacks for you to choose from. Big ones, small ones, hard-shell and canvas. There’s always something that will suit your needs!

So gear up, because we'll tell you all about the top 21 best carry on backpacks on the market. 

21 Best Carry On Backpacks

1. Sunny 16 Voyager Carry-On Backpack

2. Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack

3. Osprey Farpoint 40 Men's Travel Backpack

4. Osprey Fairview 40 Women's Travel Backpack

5. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L

6. Nomatic Travel Pack

7. Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus

8. Aer Travel Pack 2 (33L)

9. Briggs & Riley Convertible Duffle Backpack

10. Osprey Packs Meridian 60L

11. Lo & Sons Prospect Backpack

12. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 15L

13. Baggu Packable Backpack

14. Dagne Dover Medium Dakota Backpack

15. Topo Designs Travel Bag Roller

16. Minaal Carry-On 3.0 Travel Backpack

17. WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffle Backpack

18. Thule Subterra 34L Travel Backpack

19. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

20. Swiss Gear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack

21. Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L Backpack

What to Consider

Before we get into the best carry-on backpacks, it's important to understand what makes one the best backpack. After all, why are these picks the best carry-on backpacks?

Well, our list considers six key factors: size, budget, capacity, durability, security and weight. Some backpacks have all of them, and some only specialize in a few. 

But, regardless, here's why these factors really matter:

Size

Before purchasing anything, you should ask yourself what carry on backpack size you need.

Some people might want to carry everything they need in their bag, regardless of how large or how heavy it gets. On the other hand, something more compact might fit better in an overhead bin, or be less strenuous during long trips.

In general, your carry-on backpack shouldn’t exceed 45L.

Budget

Budget is another important factor to consider before purchasing a bag. 

If you’re a photographer like me, you might want something more expensive that can effectively protect your gear. In that case I would look for the best camera and lens backpack. On the other hand, a cheaper bag can be perfect for most vacations or business trips. 

Or, maybe you’re looking to invest in a super versatile bag that will last you for years. With this extensive list, there are a variety of bags that will fit whatever your budget is.

Capacity

Though capacity is similar to size, it proves just how well certain carry on backpacks can use the space they have. 

It's important to consider a bag's designated storage spaces. Doesn’t it have spaces for certain kinds of equipment or small items? For example, if you have a laptop it might be useful to get a bag with a dedicated laptop sleeve. 

So, if you’re looking for which of two same-size bags has better storage value, capacity matters. 

Durability

Durability is how much wear and tear your bag can take, and ultimately how long it’s going to last you. It can be especially important when you're traveling around.  

What goes into durability? Well, consider the material it’s made of, weather or waterproofing, any kind of padding, and the overall quality of build of the bag.

Security

A lot of camera bag backpacks come with extra features to keep your equipment safe, like locks and special zippers. 

Certain professions can require pretty expensive gear that anyone would want to keep safe on their travels. That’s why security features are an important part of any of the best carry on backpacks.

Weight

Just as size is important, weight is another factor you should consider. Of course, bags get heavier the more you pack them, but bags also have a base weight as well. 

Typically, you should try to keep your carry on backpack under 25 lbs.

Without further adieu, here are the top 21 best carry on backpacks, as well as why they’re so great:

1. Sunny 16 Voyager Backpack

Travel is in this backpack’s name. It’s a 31L camera backpack, making it versatile for any type of trip.

The Voyager is a surprisingly affordable option given all its specialities and features, coming in at $209.

This backpack packs a serious amount of gear for its size, fitting two DSLR cameras, up to seven lenses, a laptop, a tablet, and other accessories. If you’re not a photographer, you can also easily fit plenty of clothes and other travel gear. 

It’s made of a weatherproof material, making it perfect for any of your travels, rain or shine. You never have to worry about your things getting wet. 

For comfort, this backpack features both padded shoulder straps and padding on the back made of light, breathable material. You’ll have comfort during extended periods of time wearing it, and keep cool when it’s hot out.

You’ll even have quick access during your travels. The Voyager has multiple access points to equipment with both rear access, side access, and a top pocket for your convenience. Having side access as the primary bag opening keeps your equipment safe and close to you. 

Speaking of safety, you can use the hidden zipper and anti-theft clamshell opening to secure your equipment. 

And on top of all that, it’s size and weight easily qualify for carry on, regardless of the country or airline company. 

By far, the Sunny 16 Voyager is the best carry on backpack.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★★ 

Sunny 16 Voyager Quick Specs

• Price: $209
• External size: 17 x 11 x 6 inches
• Weight: 3.4 lbs
• What Fits: 2 DSLRs, 6-7 lenses, 16” laptop, tripod, clothes, food
• Color: Khaki, Gray, Green

2. Tortuga Outbreaker 45L Backpack

Though on the pricier side, the Tortuga Outbreaker is one of the best carry on backpacks if you’re looking for capacity. Not only can it fit a 17” laptop and have room to spare, but 45L is also the largest size bag you can take on a plane. 

One of the greatest aspects of this backpack is that it packs like a suitcase, but can be carried as a backpack. This allows for versatility while travelling. It’s also made from waterproof sailcloth, making it tear and abrasion resistant.

However, the only major downsides of this bag are it’s pricepoint, and weight. While it’s great to have max capacity, this can prove cumbersome while travelling. And, that capacity comes at the cost of affordability. 

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★★

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Tortuga Outbreaker 45L Quick Specs

• Price: $299
• External size: 19.45 x 15.51 x 6.3 inches
• Weight: 4.69 lbs
• What Fits: 17” laptop, tablet, accessories, clothes, food
• Color: Black

3. Osprey Farpoint 40 Men's Travel Backpack

When it comes to travelling, the Osprey carry on backpacks are some of the best. This particular 40L Large is surprisingly compact and easy to use as a carry on. 

This bag is also secure, with lockable zipper access to padded laptop and tablet sleeve, as well as a scratch-free pocket for accessories. Additionally, the bag comes with several other useful pockets, from a back panel to two front mesh pockets. 

While this back is highly affordable, this comes at the cost of material quality. Just keep in mind that this bag might not last you forever.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Osprey Farpoint 40 Men's Quick Specs

• Price: $113
• External size: 27 x 17 x 5 inches
• Weight: 3 lbs
• What Fits: 15” laptop, tablet, clothes, food, accessories
• Color: Black, Volcanic Grey, Jasper Red

4. Osprey Fairview 40 Women's Travel Backpack

This backpack merges the affordability of an Osprey carry on backpack with the comfort and ease of a women’s carry on backpack. This bag has a 40L carry capacity.

Highly comfortable, this bag features a frame suspension that transfers weight across the body. It’s also made from durable 210D Nylon Mini Hex Diamond Ripstop material, which is nice considering the price. Plus, the bag has plenty of extra compartments for accessories.

Similarly to its male counterpart, the price of this bag does come with a lack of advanced features. 

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★★

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Osprey Fairview 40 Women's Quick Specs

• Price: $159.95
• External size: 28 x 16 x 5 inches
• Weight: 4.38 lbs
• What Fits: 15” laptop, tablet, clothes, food, accessories
• Color: Black, Misty Grey, Rainforest Green

5. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

This stylish and durable backpack is easily one of the best carry on travel backpacks. 

The bag is made with a sleek, weatherproof 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell. It features top, side, front and rear access with weathproof zippers. And, this versatility is also complimented by its ability to collapse into a 35L day bag. 

The biggest downside of this bag is it's price point, as $300 is no small fee for a carry on backpack.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L Quick Specs

• Price: $299.95
• External size: 21 x 13 x 7.5 inches
• Weight: 4.5 lbs
• What Fits: 16” laptop, tablet, clothes, food, accessories
• Color: Black, Sage

6. Nomatic Travel Pack 30L

While a bit smaller than some of the other options on this list, the Nomatic Travel Pack still has considerable capacity. 

The bag includes 20 pockets that provide quick access, security and loads of storage. No matter what kind of accessories you need to pack, you can rest assured that this bag has a spot for them. On top of that, the full perimeter zipper gives you access from all sides. 

While durable and useful, this backpack's biggest downside is it's price point. As you still only get 30L for over $200.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★★

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Nomatic Travel Pack Quick Specs

• Price: $207
• External size: 20.47 x 14.45 x 7.95 inches
• Weight: 4 lbs
• What Fits: 15” laptop, tablet, clothes, food, accessories
• Color: Black

7. Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack

The pinnacle of affordability, this 40L backpack is one of the best carry on backpacks if you're on a budget. It’s the quintessential amazonbasics carry on travel backpack.

This polyester bag is light and minimalist. interior design includes a main compartment with a zippered mesh space and optional midway shelf. There is also a front pocket, and upper packing compartment. 

While this backpack's price is impressive, it's also worth noting that it's for a reason. This backpack won't last you a decade, and doesn't have the best shoulder straps.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★★

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack Quick Specs

• Price: $53.97
• External size: 15.75 x 21.5 x 8.25 inches
• Weight: 3.64 lbs
• What Fits: 15” laptop, tablet, clothes, food, accessories
• Color: Black, Navy, Red

8. Aer 33L Travel Pack 2 

While on the expensive side, this 33L carry on backpack comes with its perks. In that, there's a compartment for almost everything, while the nylon exterior still maintains it's shape. 

Some of the most useful compartments include a laptop pocket, shoe compartment, quick access top pocket, and more. These compartments are also well protected, as the bag has lockable zippers.

Of course, the biggest downside of this bag is its price for the sheer capacity numbers you're getting.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Aer 33L Travel Pack 2 Quick Specs

• Price: $230
• External size: 21.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 in
• Weight: 3.7 lbs
• What Fits: 16” laptop, tablet, clothes, food, accessories
• Color: Black

9. Bange 35L Travel Backpack

Another highly affordable option, this carry on backpack is especially useful. It's main claim to fame is that it comes in water resistant and water repellent forms. This can be great when you experience rain on your travels. 

At 35L, you'll also be able to store plenty of travel gear and personal items. 

However, the lack of compartment variety can be a downside for some, especially if you need to fit a lot in your bag.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★★

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Bange 35L Travel Backpack Quick Specs

• Price: $54.99
• External size: ‎16.2 x 9.8 x 3.7 inches
• Weight: 3.19 lbs
• What Fits: 17” laptop, tablet, clothes, accessories
• Color: Black

10. Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Travel Pack 45L

This massive addition to our list is one of the best carry on backpacks if you need a lot of storage. On top of that, it doubles as a rolling bag for airport convenience. This addition also makes it easier to handle when it gets heavy. 

It has a decent amount of dedicated compartments as well, with a main access one, and four zippered pockets inside. 

Though, this bag is fairly hard on your wallet, coming in at around $300. Even if it's useful, many people won't like the price.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★★

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Travel Pack 45L Quick Specs

• Price: $300
• External size: 26 x 23 x 10 inches
• Weight: 6.39 lbs
• What Fits: 17” laptop, tablet, food, clothes, accessories
• Color: Flash Black

11. Lo & Sons Rowledge Backpack

If you're looking for a great laptop carry on backpack, look no further than this stylish piece of gear. 

This bag is made from sleek leather and recycled polyester, making it durable and fashionable. It's also convertible, meaning it can be worn as a backpack or held as a briefcase. And, storage wise, you'll find a padded laptop sleeve, as well as several other compartments. 

Unfortunately though, this bag is pretty small, and can only hold a 13" laptop, even if it does an amazing job at keeping it safe.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★★

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Lo & Sons Rowledge Quick Specs

• Price: $232
• External size: 16.5 x 11.5 x 6.75 inches
• Weight: 3.2 lbs
• What Fits: 13” laptop, tablet, clothes, accessories
• Color: Black, Deep Navy, Santa Fe Red

12. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 15L

Lightweight and easy-to-use, this carry on luggage backpack is a great choice for those travelling light. 

The bag has a few separate pockets and zipper compartments, but it's best feature is it's security. It comes with lockable zippers that prevent theft, plus an RFID blocking pocket to keep your credit cards and IDs safe. 

Of course, the glaring downside of this bag is it's size for the price. 15L is small compared to other, cheaper bags on this list.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 15L Quick Specs

• Price: $109.95
• External size: 16.5 x 11.6 x 5.1 inches
• Weight: 1.59 lbs
• What Fits: 13” laptop, tablet, clothes, accessories
• Color: Blue

13. Mindshift Gear Backlight 26L

If you're a photographer like me, and need a gear-centric backpack, consider the MindShift Gear BackLight 26L. This bag is great for outdoor travelling, and can fit below your seat or overhead on a plane. 

Not only does it fit a ton of camera equipment, it also has 9L of space for two large water bottles, ice axes, and expandable storage for personal items. It’s made of a super durable high-density nylon and a waterproof rain cover is included.

You should watch your wallet though, as this is an expensive one. Though the extensive storage and features are impressive, many travelers still won't feel it's worth the price.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Baggu Packable Quick Specs

• Price: $249
• External size: 7.87 x 11.42 x 20.28 inches
• Weight: 3.96 lbs
• What Fits: 15” laptop, tablet, clothes, food, accessories
• Color: Charcoal, Green

14. Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

This 20L carry on luggage backpack is a great choice for any stylish individual who likes to travel light. 

The bag is made from Premium neoprene and performance air mesh on the outside, as well as a nylon lining interior. It's comfy, and has a dedicated laptop sleeve. And, it comes in many colors!

This bag is rather pricey for its size, and doesn't have very many specializations. 

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★☆☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Quick Specs

• Price: $195
• External size: 17.5 x 13.25 x 5.25 inches
• Weight: 2.6 lbs
• What Fits: 16” laptop, tablet, clothes, accessories
• Color: Onyx, Dark Moss, Storm, Ash Blue, Skyway, Pinto, Heather Grey, Dune

15. Topo Designs Travel Bag Roller

If you're looking for a great carry on backpack with wheels, look no further!

The Topo Designs Travel Bag Roller is a 35L bag made from nylon. The bag includes a large U-shaped main compartment, as well as two other internal pockets. For durability and security, it also has a ballistic base panel. Molded travel bag with U-shaped main compartment.

Though, as a backpack it's fairly heavy, especially considering its carry capacity.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Topo Designs Travel Bag Roller Quick Specs

• Price: $288.95
• External size: 26.2 x 14.3 x 7.9 inches
• Weight: 6.6 lbs
• What Fits: 16” laptop, tablet, food, clothes, accessories
• Color: Navy, Olive

16. Minaal Carry-On 3.0 Travel Backpack

This fancy 35L carry on backpack is super resistant and durable. It protects against rain, dust, and even rock scratches. 

It also has several pockets and compartments. One of these includes its internal "shirt protector attachment loops" to retain clothing. For security, the bag also includes a lie-flat clamshell scoop, as well as a secret compartment for your ID/wallet.

Of course, all these advanced features come with a hefty price tag, as this is one of the most expensive bags on our list.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Minaal Carry-On 3.0 Quick Specs

• Price: $349
• External size: 21.6 x 13.7 x 7.87 inches
• Weight: 3.12lb
• What Fits: 16” laptop, tablet, food, clothes, accessories
• Color: Aoraki Black, Vancouver Grey

17. WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffle Backpack

This duffel bag is one of the best backpacks for anyone who needs a lot of storage space.

The bag actually has removable backpack straps, making it incredibly versatile for travel. It’s also a great pick for storage space, with an expandable side compartment, padded laptop sleeve, and 3 large interior compartments.

Though, when filled this bag can become extremely heavy, making it an unideal choice for light travellers.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★☆☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

WANDRD HEXAD Access Duffle Quick Specs

• Price: $224
• External size: 24 x 17.5 x 4.5 inches
• Weight: 4.6 pounds
• What Fits: 16” laptop, tablet, clothes, food, accessories
• Color: Black

18. Thule Subterra 34L Travel Backpack

This 34L carry on backpack is a nice, balanced option for any traveler. 

It provides easy access to contents with magnetically closed roll-top opening. On the inside, the bag comes with a packing cube, as well as a laptop compartment. It also have a pass-though panel, to make it easy to attach to rolling luggage. 

Honestly, this bag's biggest downside is that it's a jack of all trades, master of none.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Thule Subterra 34L Quick Specs

• Price: $154.95
• External size: 21 x 18 x 7 inches
• Weight: 4.39 lbs
• What Fits: 15” laptop, tablet, food, clothes, accessories
• Color: Black, Ember, Mineral

19. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

With a variety of colors to choose from, and a stylish llama logo, this carry on backpack is as charming as they come. 

But don't worry, it's also highly useful. The bag has harness system that provides excellent weight distribution. And, on the inside, the bag includes several compartments besides it's roomy main compartment. On top of that, you also get a Nylon lining and a rain cover.

Though, the biggest downside to this bag is it's highly stylized look, as some people will like it, while some won't. Also, despite it’s capacity being smaller than other bags on this list, it can be somewhat bulky.

Style: ★★★★★

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Quick Specs

• Price: $200
• External size: 20 x 12 x 8 inches
• Weight: 3.7 lbs
• What Fits: 16” laptop, tablet, food, clothes, accessories
• Color: Black, Cayenne, Evergreen, Fiery Red, Indigo, Key Lime, Spruce

20. Swiss Gear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack

This 31L carry on backpack comes from the ever reliable Swiss Gear. And, like all Swiss Gear products, it's durable. The outside is made from weather-resistant 1200D ballistic polyester. A material that can withstand even the harshest conditions.

And, for it's capacity it has rather impressive storage. It can hold a 17" laptop, and provides a few organized compartments. 

While the price of this bag is impressively low, it's main downside is that it specializes in storing laptops, and not much else.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★★

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★★★

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Swiss Gear 1900 ScanSmart Quick Specs

• Price: $79.99
• External size: 8.5 x 18.5 x 13.5 inches
• Weight: 3.22 lbs
• What Fits: 17” laptop, tablet, accessories
• Color: Black, Black/Red, Blue/Black, Grey Heather, Grey/Black, White/Black

21. Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L Backpack

Spacious and built for comfort, this 40L backpack is great for any traveler.  It has well padded shoulder straps, a back panel and hip belt to provide comfort. And, these straps are highly adjustable to provide unisex comfort. 

On the storage side, this bag is on the larger end, and has several useful compartments. 

However, many people will find its price point a bit too high, especially considering that it's not the largest bag on this list.

Style: ★★★★☆

Build: ★★★★☆

Ease of Use: ★★★★☆

Value: ★★★☆☆

Overall: ★★★★☆ 

Eagle Creek Global Companion 40L Quick Specs

• Price: $332.92
• External size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Weight: 3.51 lbs
• What Fits: 16” laptop, tablet, food, clothes, accessories
• Color: Black, Smokey Blue

Up Next: Best Camera Bags for Travel

Finding a carry-on travel backpack doesn’t have to be a headache. With this list, you might actually find picking one quite fun!

Let us know in the comments which backpack stood out to you. And, if you’re interested in more camera bags for travel, check out our article covering just that.

Up Next: Best Camera Bags for Travel →