10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2025 in the United States

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 tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L is a solid choice for travelers needing a spacious yet carry-on-compliant bag. Its 40-liter capacity is generous for a carry-on, fitting everything from clothes to gadgets, including a separate padded compartment for laptops up to 17.3 inches. The backpack’s size (about 20.5 x 13.4 x 9 inches) meets most airline requirements, making it TSA-friendly with a design that allows quick laptop access during security checks. Weighing around 2.65 pounds (1.2 kg), it’s relatively lightweight, which helps avoid extra bulk when packed fully.

Comfort-wise, the backpack includes thick padded shoulder straps, a 3D padded back panel, and an adjustable chest buckle to make carrying easier over long periods. These features distribute weight well and reduce shoulder strain. Plus, the two handles and luggage pass-through strap add versatility for carrying. Durability looks strong with premium YKK zippers and recycled fabric made from PET plastic bottles, which not only ensures sturdiness but also aligns with eco-friendly values.

Organizational features are thoughtful, with a main compartment that opens suitcase-style for easy packing, multiple pockets for smaller items like documents, glasses, and liquids, and a dedicated tech compartment for laptops and tablets. This helps keep things neatly arranged and accessible. On the downside, while the backpack is spacious, its slim profile might require careful packing to maximize space. Additionally, its moderate weight might feel noticeable if fully loaded for very long treks. The tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L works well for business travelers and weekenders who want a reliable, comfortable, and organized carry-on backpack with a green edge. It balances size, comfort, and durability effectively, making airport navigation and daily carrying more manageable.

The Osprey Farpoint 40L is a solid choice for travelers looking for a carry-on backpack that balances size, comfort, and organization well. Its 40-liter capacity fits within most airline carry-on size restrictions, making it convenient for air travel without the need to check your bag. Weighing about 3.5 pounds, it is reasonably lightweight for its size, which helps reduce carrying fatigue. The backpack features a large panel zip for easy access to the main compartment, and it includes dual compression straps to keep your belongings secure and compact.

Comfort-wise, the Farpoint shines with its stowaway harness and hip belt, which can be tucked away when not needed but deployed quickly for hiking or walking longer distances, giving extra support where necessary. This makes it a versatile option for both city travel and outdoor excursions. The pack is also durable, built to withstand the typical wear and tear of travel.

Organizational features include lockable main compartment zippers, a quick-access pocket with a padded sleeve that fits most 16" laptops and tablets, two mesh side water bottle pockets, and an external zippered toiletry pocket. These compartments help keep essentials well-organized and easily reachable. Some users might find the 40L capacity a bit limiting for longer trips, and while the bag is sturdy, it is not heavily padded, which might affect comfort under very heavy loads. For most short to medium trips, it provides an excellent blend of carry-on compliance, comfort, and smart organization at a reasonable weight.