10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2025 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 Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30 Liter is a versatile carry-on backpack that suits travelers who want one bag for weekend or short trips. It’s carry-on compliant, so you can easily take it on US and many international flights without checking it in. The bag weighs about 3 pounds, which is on the moderate side—not too heavy but not ultra-light either. Its dimensions (around 21 x 15 x 7 inches) make it roomy enough to hold essentials for a few days without being bulky. Built from durable recycled nylon materials, including heavy-duty ballistic nylon, it’s designed to withstand wear and tear while being environmentally mindful.

Inside, it features multiple compartments: an external laptop sleeve, mesh pockets, zippered security pockets, and slip pockets that help keep your gear organized and easy to find. Comfort is addressed by offering three ways to carry—backpack straps, a shoulder strap, and grab handles—giving you flexibility depending on your travel style. However, the bag’s design leans more toward functional than cushioned comfort, so if you’re planning to carry it for long periods, it might feel a bit firm.

Some travelers might find the 30-liter capacity limiting for longer trips, but it’s great for packing light and staying organized. This bag is a solid pick for travelers who prioritize durability, organization, and carrying options in a carry-on sized backpack, though it may not be the best choice for those needing extra padding or larger capacity.

The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L is a well-sized carry-on backpack designed to fit within most airline requirements, making it a solid choice for weekend or short week trips. It offers about 30 liters of space, which is enough to pack essentials without being bulky. Weighing around 3.2 pounds, it strikes a balance between being sturdy and lightweight, though it’s not the lightest option available.

The bag is made from durable recycled nylon materials, including tough ballistic nylon for extra wear resistance, which means it can handle rough travel conditions while also being environmentally conscious. Inside, it features multiple compartments and mesh pockets to keep your items organized and easy to access, along with a padded external laptop sleeve for added protection.

Comfort-wise, the bag offers three carrying options: backpack straps, a shoulder strap, and grab handles, so you can switch how you carry it depending on your comfort or situation. While the construction is solid, the 3.2-pound weight might feel a bit heavy if you prefer ultralight gear. Some users may find the design more functional than sleek or minimalist. This pack is well suited for travelers seeking a versatile, durable carry-on backpack that keeps gear organized and adapts to different carrying styles.