The 9 Best Carry-on Backpacks for Long Flights and Cross Country Road Trips (2024)

Traveling light and organized can feel like chasing a unicorn. But with the Carl Friedrik 72 Hour Backpack, we’re pretty sure we’ve caught one. This bag is half backpack, half suitcase, and 100% awesome for up to 72 hours of hands-free travel. Designed with a sleek, resilient nylon exterior, it not only looks great but is built to handle whatever the weather throws your way. And trust us, packing has never been easier—just unzip the front panel, and voilà, your own mini suitcase ready to be filled.

What we love most is how this backpack combines style and function. It’s got a separate business compartment for your 16” laptop and documents, plus three interior pockets to keep everything in its place. The integrated luggage holder is a game-changer when you need to breeze through the airport with your hands full. And despite its minimalist look, it’s packing eight pockets and compartments—because who doesn’t love a little extra organization?

The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L is like the Swiss Army knife of travel bags—it’s ready for anything, whether you're trekking through the mountains or just trying to survive the airport. This bag combines the durability of a rugged duffel with the convenience of a carry-on, all while keeping things eco-friendly with 100% recycled materials. Need to switch up how you carry it? No problem. The Black Hole MLC transforms from a backpack to a shoulder bag or a duffel faster than you can say “boarding pass.”

With 45 liters of space, it’s roomy enough for world travel, yet compact enough to meet most airline carry-on requirements. And if you’re the type who likes to pack tech gear, the padded laptop pocket has you covered, even zipping open flat for TSA’s convenience. This bag might be tough as nails, but it’s got a soft spot for the environment—and your back.

If you’re the type who travels with more gadgets than a tech store, the Peak Design Travel Pack is your perfect match. This backpack is a tech lover's dream, loaded with features that make it easy to carry everything from your DSLR to your tablet while still looking sharp. The 30L version is ideal for daily adventures, while the 45L steps up for those longer trips where you need to pack all your gear (and then some). Made with weatherproof materials and a 100% recycled shell, it’s built to handle whatever the journey throws at you, all while being eco-friendly.

What’s especially handy is the expandable design, which lets you adjust the size depending on how much you’re hauling—whether it’s just the essentials or your entire tech arsenal. With theft-deterrent zippers and hidden pockets, your gear stays safe no matter where you are, from bustling airports to off-the-grid locations.

One reviewer writes: “I bought the Travel Backpack last month. I was hoping for a great product, but it has exceeded my expectations in many aspects. It is noticeable that a great deal of planning and design was done for this backpack. As a traveler, I have used many travel backpacks in my day, but nothing was even closer to this. The comfort, the ease of use, and the modularity just made me awe. The environmental-friendly processes you use is also a major consideration when I bought this and I am happy to be somewhat of a part of it. Thank you for that. Keep up the good work!"

Here’s the deal: the Bagsmart Blast Quick Access Travel Backpack is the budget-friendly workhorse we didn’t know we needed. Whether you're packing for a quick weekend or squeezing in a few extra outfits for a longer trip, this bag makes it effortless. The wide-opening main compartment takes the stress out of packing, and that 180-degree laptop compartment? It’s a lifesaver for gliding through security without breaking a sweat.

What really impressed us is how this bag keeps everything organized with six independent pockets, and when we needed a bit more space, it expanded from 28L to 38L like a charm. And after a particularly adventurous trip, discovering it’s machine washable was the cherry on top—no more carrying around travel grime!

If you’re a fan of the classic duffel bag but crave the convenience of a backpack, the TomToc Navigator-T66 is here to deliver the best of both worlds. This bag gives you that easy-access, throw-everything-in vibe of a duffel, with the added comfort of backpack straps to save your shoulders. The front opens wide, duffel-style, so you can lay it flat and pack (or unpack) in a flash—perfect for those of us who like to see everything at a glance.

What really caught our attention is how this bag blends duffel functionality with smart organization. The spacious 40L main compartment is ideal for packing several outfits, whether you’re a packing cube pro or more of a “just toss it in” type. Also, the separate laptop compartment and extra pockets make it easy to keep your tech and essentials within reach. And at a fraction of the price of high-end alternatives, it’s a no-brainer for budget-conscious travelers.

Looking for a backpack that doesn’t just carry your stuff but also adds a touch of sophistication to your look? Enter the Hartman Reserve Backpack. This isn’t your average bag—it’s a head-turner crafted from cotton-twill canvas with full-grain aniline leather accents, perfect for anyone who values both form and function. We were impressed by how this bag blends style with practicality. The dedicated padded tech compartment ensures your electronics are safe, while the exterior quick-access pocket is a lifesaver when you’re on the move. And let’s not forget the zip-away beverage pocket—it’s there when you need it, and hidden when you don’t, keeping the sleek design intact.

One reviewer writes:: “It has a lot of storage for being such a slim bag! It is chic and I love the style. The material is thick and durable. Not cheap feeling at all. I have used it for travel and am excited to use it for academics!”

Let’s face it—staying organized on the go can feel like an Olympic sport. But with the Troubadour Pioneer Backpack, we’re finally winning gold. This bag is the ultimate multitasker, designed to keep everything in its place, whether you’re commuting, hitting the gym, or jetting off for a weekend getaway. Trust us, this backpack has a spot for everything, and we mean everything.

What really stands out is the clever clamshell opening that gives you instant access to your mobile office. There’s a separate, breathable shoe compartment with a waterproof antimicrobial lining (because who wants stinky shoes next to their laptop?), and a shoulder strap pocket that’s perfect for keeping your phone or keys within easy reach. And let’s not forget the retractable bottle holder—hydration has never been this convenient.

Customer Review: “Premium look and feel. Holds its shape whether it is full or empty. Very well padded shoulder straps. Side laptop pocket access is incredibly convenient. Bottom shoe storage allows you to transport clean\dirty laundry and shoes. Love this bag.”

If your idea of a good time involves cramming as much adventure into your days as possible, then the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack is about to become your new best friend. This backpack is like the Swiss Army knife of travel gear—except better because it doesn’t just sit in your pocket. With its suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening, packing is as easy as flipping the lid on a treasure chest (and just as exciting).

We love how Cotopaxi has revamped this pack for comfort, with better weight distribution and air mesh shoulder straps that make hauling your gear feel like a breeze. Plus, the new exterior stretch water bottle pocket is a lifesaver when you’re parched mid-adventure. And let’s not forget that it’s made with 100% recycled fabrics, so you can feel good about your eco-friendly choice while you’re off exploring the wild.

1. Size and Capacity: The sweet spot for a carry-on backpack is one that’s spacious enough to hold your essentials but compact enough to fit in an overhead bin. Look for a bag that meets airline carry-on size requirements, usually around 45 liters or less. It should have enough room for a weekend’s worth of clothes, toiletries, and gadgets without feeling like you’re lugging around a boulder.
2. Comfort: You’re going to be carrying this thing through airports, train stations, and city streets, so comfort is key. Look for padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and a weight distribution system that doesn’t make your back feel like it’s in a tug-of-war. Bonus points if it has a chest strap or waist belt for extra support on longer treks.
3. Organization: A good carry-on backpack isn’t just a big empty sack; it’s a well-organized travel companion. Look for multiple compartments, zippered pockets, and dedicated spaces for your laptop, chargers, and passport. Easy access to your essentials, like a front pocket for your boarding pass, can make all the difference.
4. Durability: Your backpack will likely see its fair share of rough handling, so it needs to be built to last. Opt for water-resistant materials, strong zippers, and reinforced stitching. If you’re investing in a carry-on, it should withstand being tossed into overhead bins, dragged through security lines, and everything in between.
5. Style: While functionality is crucial, let’s not forget that your carry-on backpack should look good too. Choose a design that matches your personal style, whether that’s sleek and minimalistic or rugged and adventure-ready. After all, this bag is going to be your travel sidekick, so it might as well reflect your vibe.
6. Security: Peace of mind is priceless, especially when traveling. Look for backpacks with anti-theft features like lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and RFID-blocking compartments to keep your valuables safe from prying hands.
7. Versatility: A great carry-on backpack should adapt to your needs, whether you're going on a business trip or a weekend getaway. Consider bags with convertible features, like tuck-away straps or the ability to switch from backpack to briefcase mode, giving you more flexibility on the go.