10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The Osprey Daylite 44L Carry-On Travel Pack stands out for its balance between lightweight construction and durability. Weighing only 1.22 kilograms (2.68 pounds), it's one of the lighter options available for its size, which makes it easy to carry without adding much bulk. With a capacity of 44 liters, it maximizes the allowed size for carry-on by most airlines, which is great for travelers who want to pack efficiently without checking in luggage.

The quick TSA access laptop sleeve for up to a 16-inch laptop adds convenience for business or tech-savvy travelers who need to keep their devices accessible during security checks. Comfort is another strong point; the AirScape backpanel and backpack straps with a sternum strap help distribute weight evenly, making it more comfortable to carry for extended periods.

However, the pack only has one main compartment, which might limit organizational options for some users. Despite this, the high customer satisfaction rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars suggests that most users find it meets their expectations well. This backpack is ideal for frequent flyers, business travelers, and anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable, and airline-compliant carry-on option.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L Travel Backpack in Koseret Green is a spacious and versatile option for travelers, combining a generous 46-liter capacity with a relatively lightweight design at 1.48 kilograms (3.26 pounds). This makes it suitable for carrying a substantial amount of gear without being overly cumbersome. The backpack is crafted from heavy-duty, bluesign-approved recycled materials, ensuring both durability and an eco-friendly footprint. Its durability is further enhanced by high tenacity and ballistic fabrics, making it a dependable choice for frequent use.

Comfort is a key feature, thanks to the AirScape back panel and tuckaway harness and hipbelt, which provide support and ease of carrying during long trips. The unique Straight Jacket compression adds extra padding and helps manage load distribution effectively. Organizational features are well-considered, with multiple compartments aiding in neat packing and easy access to essentials. The inclusion of TSID luggage registration offers added peace of mind for travelers.

However, at its dimensions of 26 inches in length, 15 inches in width, and 4 inches in height, it may be a tight fit for some airline carry-on restrictions, so it's worth double-checking with specific airlines. In essence, the Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a durable, comfortable, and well-organized travel backpack, best suited for those needing ample space and robust construction for their travels.

The Samsonite Xenon 3.0 Checkpoint Friendly Backpack is a solid choice for travelers looking for a carry-on backpack that balances size, comfort, and organization. With a 27-liter capacity, it offers enough space for essentials without being bulky, and its weight of just 1.2 pounds makes it easy to carry around without feeling heavy. The checkpoint-friendly design is a big plus if you travel frequently by air, as it allows you to open the backpack fully at security without removing your laptop or tablet, speeding up the screening process.

Comfort is addressed with an air channel system and breathable mesh padding on the back, helping reduce sweat and discomfort during longer wear. The smartsleeve feature is handy for slipping the backpack onto your suitcase handle, making it easier to move through airports. Organizationally, it shines with a large main compartment plus various interior and exterior pockets, including a dedicated tablet and stylus pocket, helping you keep your items tidy and accessible.

Measuring 17.5 inches tall and fairly slim, this backpack may not fit everything if you tend to pack bulky items or larger laptops. However, if you prioritize lightweight comfort, streamlined airport travel, and decent organization, this backpack serves well as a carry-on companion.