10 Best Carry On Backpacks 2025 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.

The NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag is designed as a versatile carry-on backpack that easily converts into a duffel, making it a flexible choice for airplane trips and daily use. Its 40-liter capacity is generous for a carry-on size, fitting the standard airline limits while offering plenty of space for clothes, tech gear, and essentials. Weighing just over 4 pounds, it strikes a reasonable balance—not too heavy to carry comfortably, though it might feel a bit bulky when fully packed.

The Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack Pro is designed to be a large, carry-on-friendly backpack that fits most airline size limits, making it a great choice for travelers who prefer to avoid checked luggage. It offers a roomy 40-liter capacity, which is enough space for a week or longer trip, thanks to its smart interior layout and multiple compartments. Comfort is a strong point here: with height-adjustable straps, thick padding, and a hip belt that transfers most of the weight away from your shoulders, it’s built to carry heavy loads without causing pain.