Best Backpacks for Carry-on Only Travel

When you decide to pick up a backpack for your carry-on travel, make sure to check the size limitations of the airlines you fly with. You don’t want to carry a bigger than an accepted backpack or a heavier one.

One trick we use is to get them a couple of inches bigger than the required size but we just don’t stuff them until they burst. In this case, if we need to put them in the “cage”, they easily fit in.

We’ve only checked luggage one, on our first flight together as a couple. It was enough of a headache to decide never to check a bag again. Since then, we’ve used both trolleys (bad idea) and backpacks (great idea).

>>read here about how to pack your back for carry on only travel

That said, here, I’ve put together a list of backpacks which can be good choices to get you started with carry-on only travel. Even if you travel by land a lot – like us – they will prove a very good choice for your explorations.

Everest Hiking Pack

Product dimensions: 24 (high) x 13.5 (wide) inches

If your budget isn’t allowing for anything fancy, this is a good option. Made in China, it is secure compartments and zippered side pockets.


Granite Gear Blaze 60L Backpack 2019

Product Dimensions: 20.32×30.48×38.11 cm, Capacity: 60 liters

This unisex backpack comes with a dual-density shoulder harness with load-lifter straps, a removable sternum strap, and a whistle buckle for safety. It also has a removable lid compartment that converts to an optional chest pack to carry on your front.

The weight (empty) is 453.60 grams.


Military Tactical Backpack Army Small 3 Day Assault Pack Molle Bug Out Bag Backpacks Rucksacks

Product dimensions: :13*20*11 inches / 33*50.5*28 cm (W*H*D), Capacity: 40L

It is made of high density, durable, and water-resistant fabric.

The back area and the shoulder straps are made of a ventilated mesh to offer comfort. It is hydration compatible so you can add a hydration bladder.

It can used for a long weekend trip, for day trips, and works great as a carry-on backpack.


Kelty Coyote 65 Liter Backpack, Men’s and Women’s (2020 Update) – Hiking, Backpacking, Travel Backpack

Product Dimensions: 30x18x12 inch, Capacity: 65 liters

The 65-liter storage offers ample space for all your gear. It comes with plenty of pockets: two front zippered pockets, a top-loading one, water bottle pockets, a sleeping bag compartment, and more.

The ventilated back panel ensures you will keep cool and dry.
The weight (empty) is 4lbs 10 oz.


G4Free 50L Outdoor Backpack Camping Climbing Hiking Backpack For Backpacker Unisex Bag with Rain Cover

Product dimensions : 23.2 x 13.4 x 3.9 inches , capacity 50 L

The bigger and more expensive cousin of #7 above, this backpack is marketed as being unisex. Water-resistant and with zippers which self-repair, it has a front compartment for ease of access. It also comes with a special compartment for shoes or dirty clothes, as well as a rain cover (which comes with). Ideal for hiking, walking, camping, as well as taking it on vacation and for traveling carry on only. With the rain cover offering protection, you can easily carry your precious electronic equipment without any worries.


Osprey Packs Porter 46 Travel Backpack

Product dimensions: 23 x 15 x 13 inches, capacity 46 L.

This backpack features are protective read panel which can be locked, ideal to stow your laptop/tablet. The front panel is ideal to put your travel documents, books, etc. Available in 30L, 46L & 65L.

Note: This blog post has links that can be defined as “affiliate links”. This means that I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you) if you purchase something through the links provided. LooknWalk is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program

Note: the article was updated as of June 2023.

25 thoughts on “Best Backpacks for Carry-on Only Travel

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  17. Hi, i need the best and right backpack for my college. i also carry my laptop to college so i will buy a bag that has a separate padded laptop compartment, and must be lightweight and comfortable so if you have written any post on these types of backpacks please inform me thanks

    • Hi, some of those in the list above do have a laptop compartment, too. Padded and all. I used to have a Targus one that I used to carryon travel (but the poor thing is way too old now); then I switched to a CabinZero for a while and now have an HP one.

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