10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2026 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 Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L is designed to be a reliable carry-on option for travelers who need a mix of durability, organization, and comfort. Its 40-liter capacity is generous, making it suitable for short trips or those who like to pack a bit extra. The backpack weighs about 1.45 kg, which is moderate—not too heavy but not ultra-light either, so it should be comfortable enough for carrying through airports or on day trips. Comfort is enhanced by padded shoulder straps and compatibility with an optional sling bag that can act as a hip belt, helping distribute weight better on longer hauls.

Durability is a strong point here; the materials include 100% recycled polyester with a water-resistant coating and waxed canvas, which offers good protection from rain and wear. The fabric’s natural, slightly broken-in look may show minor marks, but this adds character rather than detracts from quality. Organization-wise, the backpack scores well with multiple pockets, including a padded compartment for laptops up to 17 inches, an internal zipped pocket for small essentials, a dedicated water bottle holder, and compression straps to keep items secure during travel. A unique feature is the removable TPU rolltop bag inside, which prevents moisture or odors from spreading to the rest of the backpack—handy for toiletries or dirty clothes.

One consideration is that the backpack’s water resistance is good but not fully waterproof, so heavy rain might require extra protection. Also, the material requires hand washing, which might be less convenient for some users. While it meets most airline carry-on size requirements, its rectangular shape and 40L volume might feel large for minimal packers or those seeking a slimmer profile. This backpack offers a solid blend of eco-friendly materials, thoughtful organization, and casual style, ideal for travelers who want durability and practical features without opting for a bulky or complicated bag.

The Thule Landmark Backpack 40L is designed as a carry-on-sized travel backpack with a well-balanced 40-liter capacity, making it suitable for short trips or adventure travel. It weighs about 1.44 kilograms (roughly 3.2 pounds), which is relatively light for its size and capacity, helping reduce the load on your back during travel. The backpack offers good organization with six pockets and five compartments, including dedicated padded spaces for a 15" laptop and a 12.9" tablet, which is convenient for keeping electronics safe and accessible.

Its standout security features include the hidden CashStash compartment to protect money and passports, and LoopLocks that secure zipper pulls to deter theft, which is a plus for travelers concerned about pickpockets. The outer material is polyester, noted as lightweight but not water resistant, so it may not perform well in heavy rain without an extra cover. Comfort-wise, it uses basic straps, which may be sufficient for moderate carrying but might not offer the enhanced padding or ergonomic support found in more hiking-focused backpacks.

Durability should be reliable given the brand reputation and polyester build, but the lack of water resistance could be a limitation depending on your travel conditions. This backpack suits travelers looking for a sturdy, organized, and secure carry-on backpack with enough space for essentials, especially those who prioritize theft protection. For travelers expecting frequent wet weather or requiring extra padded comfort for long hiking days, other options might be more appropriate.