Choosing the best backpack for air travel is crucial for comfort and convenience. The best backpacks blend durability, functionality, and compliance with airline regulations.
Traveling by air requires a backpack that can handle the essentials while adhering to airline guidelines.
We’ve selected the best backpacks for air travel, ensuring a stress-free journey from check-in to landing.
Skip the hassle of checking a bag or dragging a bulky suitcase through busy airports by opting for a carry-on backpack.
Ideal for both short getaways and longer adventures, these bags offer the perfect blend of practicality, comfort, and compactness.
With smart packing, many can hold up to a week’s worth of clothes, making them a go-to for efficient travelers.
Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend city break or backpacking across Europe, a carry-on backpack ensures smoother transitions and greater mobility.
To find the best options, we rigorously tested 11 carry-on backpacks across seven different performance categories such as Capacity & Organization, Comfort & Fit, Durability, Design & Aesthetics, Portability & Size, Ease of Packing, Extra Features.
Whether you’re a business traveler or a casual tourist, our curated list will guide you to the backpack that meets all your air travel needs.
In this guide, you will find out the 11 best backpacks for air travel whether you’re a frequent traveler or you want to be inspired to book more trips just by having a bag that you can’t wait to use, an excellent, tough-as-nails travel backpack will get you from point A to point B—and everywhere else in between—without causing you any undo stress.
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11 Best Backpack for Air Travel in 2025
Here are the 11 best backpack for air travel in 2025.
1. Cotopaxi Travel Pack
One of the best backpack for air travel is Cotopaxi, which is well-known for its eco-friendly operations and vibrant outdoor clothing.
In August 2024, Cotopaxi redesigned the Allpa series with improved weight distribution, stronger materials, and additional features like an external stretch water bottle pocket, a luggage pass-through strap, and air mesh shoulder straps.
With two smaller zipped pockets on one side and a large, mesh zippered pocket on the other, this pack features a clamshell opening.
For convenient access to things like a phone or passport, the bag has a small zipped pocket at the very front in addition to a medium-sized zippered pocket on the front.
Additionally, there is a padded laptop section with a partition on the back of the backpack that can accommodate multiple devices.
Because of its size, this backpack isn’t suitable for daily use, but I believe it’s still useful for road trips, work travels, flying, and camping.
2. Away Active Convertible Backpack 45L
This backpack is perfect for keeping clothes, equipment, and accessories organized because it has several roomy sections, compression straps, and a few pockets.
When fully loaded, the 45-liter backpack may get hefty, yet the padded shoulder straps provide support and comfort for extended walks.
Additionally, you may change up your carrying technique if you do become tired thanks to the handy duffel handles.
This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times.
There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag’s fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.
3. Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack
The Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack pleased us with its comfortable fit and packing capabilities, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Three distinct packing cubes in sizes small, medium, and big are included with the bag. We particularly appreciate that this backpack has a handle to hold it horizontally in addition to a suitcase strap.
To make packing gadgets and holding down objects easier, the backpack itself has straps inside and a laptop sleeve.
Although it has a water bottle holder and a laptop sleeve, the design didn’t impress us as much as those from some of the more expensive manufacturers.
We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle.
However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage.
This budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack.
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4. Nomatic Travel Pack
The Nomatic Travel Pack’s extensible zippers, which add an additional 10 liters of room, make it the most adaptable carry-on bag.
The bag features numerous pockets and sections to effectively arrange shoes, clothing, accessories, and technology, making it perfect for both short trips and extended weekend retreats.
Travelers who prefer to be especially organized will value the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and numerous slip and zipped pockets in the main compartment, even though the interior’s abundance of storage initially seemed a little overwhelming.
The backpack’s small to medium size makes it comfortable to carry because it doesn’t feel heavy or bulky, and the handles and padded shoulder straps make carrying the bag comfortable.
We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.
5. Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45 ECONYL
We chose this Pacsafe backpack as our preferred carry-on choice after evaluating anti-theft backpacks recently.
With its roomy 45-liter capacity, RFID-blocking pocket, locked zippers, and slashproof fabric, it’s made to take the place of your carry-on luggage and offer additional security for your belongings.
The bag easily accommodated everything and the clamshell compartment opens like a suitcase.
Although there are many pockets for organization, the safety elements are what truly caught our attention. The two main zipper pulls could be secured together in a built-in padlock, but it would undoubtedly prevent someone from impulsively opening the bag.
This backpack also has a stainless steel cable that you can secure to fixed objects, but we found it difficult to figure out at first.
The backpack itself is also comfortable to wear — a little bulky and heavy but ultimately a versatile bag that is packed with smart, anti-theft features.
6. Tropicfeel Shell Backpack
We adore the well-considered features of this bag that cater to all kinds of travelers. You can use the Tropicfeel Shell Backpack as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and daily use, but it can also hold up to 42 liters of clothing for a weekend or weeklong trip.
A kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack offers an extra 6 liters of space for shoes or other goods you want to keep separate, and you can relax the front buckle to make room for more stuff with the roll-up opening flap.
Additionally, there is a detachable, compressible wardrobe organizer that you can hang in a closet once you arrive at your destination, as well as a padded section in the back of the backpack that can accommodate computers up to 17 inches long.
For those who want to modify their backpacks, the brand offers accessory pockets and an organization system that can be added for extra money.
We believe that the versatility of this backpack makes it well worth the increased price if you require an all-in-one bag. Additionally, if you’re looking for the best backpack for air travel, this one is composed of 64% recycled polyester and 100% recycled nylon.
7. Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
It might be a lot of stress to pack for a trip, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L makes it quick and simple.
There are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger, and we enjoyed how easy it is to keep a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment at the back of the bag.
With spaces to store cords, travel documents, gadgets, water bottles, and more, the numerous pockets and compartments provide a plethora of alternatives for keeping small or loose goods organized in the absence of packing cubes.
Although the backpack can still feel heavy if you fill it full, the adjustable shoulder straps and straps that span the chest and waist help distribute the weight equally, making it more pleasant to carry around.
The 100 percent recycled nylon material felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time.
8. Tortuga Travel Backpack
A rain-resistant backpack, such as this one from Tortuga, is ideal if you’re going somewhere with a lot of precipitation.
The brand’s waterproof Shell200, sometimes known as “sailcloth,” is constructed entirely of recycled materials to protect your things and keep inclement weather from seriously ruining your trip.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack almost sat in a puddle for hours during a rainy overnight camping trip, but none of our belongings or clothes got wet, and cleaning the bag with a damp cloth was simple.
You can easily fit a week’s worth of clothes—or more—between the two clamshell chambers of this 40-liter bag.
Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side.
And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.
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9. Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack
This Calpak backpack has a pocket for everything if you enjoy having pockets to hold all of your various belongings.
With its 26-liter capacity, the bag is medium in size, but its various pockets—an organizational design element common to many Calpak luggage pieces—allow it to still hold enough clothes for four or five days of travel.
If you need to carry the backpack long distances, the padded straps offer plenty of comfort to protect the shoulders from feeling the weight of the pack, and there are buckles and straps on the sides of the backapck to help compress it as tight as possible.
You can also tuck away the backpack straps if you’d rather slind the backpack over your shoulder as a duffel bag.
10. Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
The main compartment of this expandable backpack is roomy enough to hold clothing for at least four days, and its design makes it easy to pack heavy items like shoes and jackets.
With a detachable partition sleeve and compression straps to keep everything in place, packing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was quick and easy.
This backpack, which was created with photographers in mind, works similarly to a camera bag. It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack.
There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod.
Despite its weight, Peak Design made the most of every available area in its backpack; even the hip belt includes a little storage pocket that can be folded up when you’re not using it for additional support.
All of the straps are easily adjustable to avoid pinching and weight imbalances. The bag, which is made of recycled nylon that is both waterproof and weatherproof, held up well when we threw it to the ground and showed no evidence of scuffs or damage. This is precisely what you want in a backpack that is meant to last.
Despite its high cost, this bag has many useful features for travelers, and its excellent performance makes us think it will last for a very long time.
11. Matein Travel Backpack
You may always try this practical and roomy carry-on backpack for less than $60 if you’re not ready to make the investment in a more expensive one.
This 40-liter backpack features a single roomy main area that can easily accommodate many tops, bottoms, and a toiletries case.
The distinct footwear compartment, which can accommodate shoes up to size 12, was especially great because it keeps the bottoms of your shoes away from clean clothing.
A sizable laptop pocket and a front pocket with compartments for storing tiny accessories that are prone to being misplaced, like as headphones and phone chargers, are also included.
Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it.
What is the best Backpack for air travel?
The Nomatic Navigator Backpack is the best backpack for air travel, combining sleek design, functionality, and durability.
Designed specifically for travelers, it expands from 20L to 24L, offering flexibility depending on your packing needs.
It features dedicated compartments for laptops, tablets, and tech gear, along with RFID-blocking pockets and hidden compartments for added security.
The water-resistant materials and luggage strap make it ideal for navigating airports and fitting in overhead bins or under seats.
With a sleek, minimalist design and smart organization, it’s a reliable, stylish choice for frequent flyers and digital nomads alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Top Features Of Travel Backpacks?
Travel backpacks prioritize features like expandability, water resistance, lightweight design, and secure TSA locks. They often include tech-friendly additions such as USB charging ports and compartments for laptops.
How To Choose A Carry-on Travel Backpack?
Select a carry-on travel backpack based on airline size restrictions, storage needs, material durability, and comfort features like padded straps. Look for added conveniences such as built-in USB ports for charging devices on the go.
Are Vacuum Seal Backpacks Worth It For Air Travel?
Yes, vacuum seal backpacks maximize space by compressing clothes, making them ideal for air travel. They also often come with electric pumps, adding convenience and efficiency to the packing process.
Can Travel Backpacks Fit Laptops Securely?
Absolutely, many travel backpacks are designed with padded compartments to fit and protect laptops. Sizes range to accommodate different laptop dimensions, typically up to 17 inches or more.
What Is The Benefit Of Tsa-approved Locks On Backpacks?
TSA-approved locks provide security for your belongings while allowing TSA agents to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock. This is crucial for hassle-free airport experiences.
How Important Is Water Resistance In A Travel Backpack?
Water resistance is vital for protecting your belongings from the elements. It ensures that electronics and important documents stay dry during unexpected rain or spills.
Conclusion
Choosing the best backpack for air travel can make all the difference in your journey. Remember, comfort, durability, and convenience are key.
With options like tsa locks, waterproof materials, and usb ports, these backpacks are designed to ease your travel stress.
References
- travelandleisure.com – The 11 Best Carry-on Travel Backpacks, Tested and Reviewed
- telegraph.co.uk – The 18 best backpacks of 2025 for travel, work
