10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The MATEIN Mens Backpack is a strong choice for travelers looking for a versatile carry-on bag. Its expandable design offers generous packing space, meeting airline size limits while letting you fit extra items when needed. Weighing just 13.7 ounces, it’s very lightweight, easing the burden when moving through airports or on day trips. Comfort is well addressed with padded, adjustable shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and a sternum strap to help distribute weight more evenly, which is great for longer wear. The backpack converts neatly between a traditional carry-on style and a briefcase look by hiding the shoulder straps, adding flexibility for different travel situations. Organizationally, it includes a front pocket for small essentials like phones and earphones, a large main compartment with compression straps to keep items secure, and multiple grab handles for easy handling.

Durability is impressive due to its water-resistant polyester fabric, sturdy zippers, and solid stitching, which should hold up well under various travel conditions. A luggage strap also lets you attach it securely to a suitcase handle, simplifying transit. On the downside, while the backpack is large, its expandable feature might add extra bulk that could be tricky in very tight overhead bins. Also, it’s designed as a unisex bag but the styling and color options may not suit everyone’s taste. This backpack is well suited for frequent travelers, weekend adventurers, or anyone wanting a practical, lightweight carry-on with smart features and good durability.

The SwissGear Extra Large Hybrid Laptop Backpack is a practical choice for travelers or anyone needing a versatile carry-on bag. It’s designed to handle a weekend’s worth of items with its spacious 32.3-liter capacity and smart split-case interior that organizes like luggage, making packing and access straightforward. Weighing just over 3 pounds, it’s light enough to carry comfortably without adding extra bulk. Comfort-wise, the backpack features adjustable, ergonomic shoulder straps and an Airflow back panel, which helps keep your back cool during long wear. It also includes a handy zippered strap to attach to rolling luggage, which is great for airport travel.

The dedicated laptop compartment protects devices up to 16 inches and allows quick side access, a thoughtful touch for busy users. Organizational features are solid, with multiple exterior pockets including a fleece-lined sunglasses pouch, a side water bottle holder, and a hidden valuables pocket. Made of 100% polyester, it promises decent durability, although it requires hand washing rather than machine cleaning. One possible drawback is its size—while generous, the dimensions might push the limits for some airline carry-on rules, so checking specific airline requirements is advisable.

This backpack blends the convenience of a suitcase with the ease of a backpack, making it ideal for business trips, school, or everyday commuting where organized, comfortable carrying is key.

The TUMI Alpha Brief Pack is a stylish and versatile laptop backpack designed for business travelers and daily commuters. It boasts a dedicated padded compartment for a 15-inch laptop, a tablet pocket, and multiple other pockets that enhance its organizational capacity. With a total capacity of 15 liters, it provides ample space for essentials, though it might be limiting for those needing more storage for longer trips.

Weighing 3.5 pounds, it is relatively lightweight considering its durable ballistic nylon construction, which ensures it can withstand daily use and travel rigors efficiently. The adjustable and padded straps add a high level of comfort, making it suitable for extended wear without causing strain. Additionally, the fabric sleeve to secure it over carry-on luggage handles is a thoughtful feature for frequent flyers, simplifying airport navigation.

On the downside, its compact size may not accommodate bulkier items, and at a higher price point, it may be considered an investment piece. The sleek black leather adds a touch of sophistication, but might show wear over time. This backpack is ideal for business professionals and frequent travelers who prioritize organization, durability, and a premium look in their carry-on luggage.