10 Best Travel Carry On Backpacks 2026 in the United States

The Thule Aion Travel Backpack 40L is a solid choice for travelers needing a carry-on-sized backpack that combines eco-friendly materials with practical features. Its 40-liter size fits easily within most airlines' carry-on limits, making it convenient for short trips. Weighing about 1.45 kilograms (3.2 pounds), it is lightweight enough for comfortable carrying without feeling bulky. The backpack’s fabric is made from 100% recycled polyester with a water-resistant coating, which helps protect your belongings from light rain or spills. The unique waxed canvas look adds style but may show marks or color variations, which some may find charming while others might see as a drawback.

Inside, it offers four compartments, including a padded section that fits laptops up to 17 inches, along with internal compression straps to keep items secure during travel. There’s also a removable TPU rolltop bag for separating items that might be dirty or damp. Comfort is addressed with padded shoulder straps, and there’s a water bottle pocket for easy access on the go. One standout feature is compatibility with a separate Thule Aion Sling Bag, which can act as a hip belt for better weight distribution if purchased. However, this means you might need to spend extra if you want enhanced support.

The bag’s soft shell design and organized pockets make packing and access simple, but care requires hand washing only. For those seeking a stylish, eco-conscious, well-organized backpack that works well as a carry-on, this is a dependable option, especially if you are comfortable with the waxed canvas look and don’t mind investing in accessories for extra comfort.

The Thule Landmark Backpack 40L is a well-sized carry-on option for travelers who want a mix of security and organization. Its 40-liter capacity fits the typical carry-on size, making it a good choice for short trips or as a main travel backpack. Weighing 1.44 kg (about 3.2 pounds), it’s reasonably lightweight for its size, so it won’t add much burden while on the move. Made from durable polyester, the bag feels sturdy but isn’t water-resistant, so it may need an extra rain cover in wet weather. It has five compartments and six pockets, including special spots like the hidden CashStash pocket under the SafeZone compartment to keep passports and money safe from pickpockets—great for peace of mind during travel. The bag also offers secure zipper pulls with LoopLocks, which add an extra layer of theft protection.

For gadgets, it comfortably stores a 15-inch laptop and a 12.9-inch tablet, which is handy for work or entertainment on the go. Comfort-wise, the backpack uses basic straps without visible extra padding or ergonomic design, so it might not be the best if you plan to carry it for long hours or on rough hikes. Although designed for trekking and adventure travel, it leans more toward city and casual travel due to its security features and carry-on size. The unisex style in dark blue is neutral and practical.

If you’re looking for a smart, secure, and well-organized travel backpack that fits carry-on standards and handles daily travel needs well, this model is a solid pick. Just keep in mind it’s not water-resistant, and comfort features are basic compared to some hiking-specific backpacks.

The Thule Aion Carry On Spinner is a well-designed carry-on that suits travelers looking for durability and ease of use. It meets most airline size requirements with dimensions of 13.8 x 9.1 x 21.7 inches and offers a 35-liter capacity, which is spacious enough for short trips. Weighing about 3.15 kg (7 lbs), it’s a bit heavier than some soft backpacks but reasonable for a hard-shell spinner. The material is a standout feature—made from 100% recycled, bluesign approved polyester with a waxed canvas finish, it’s water-resistant and eco-friendly, though the unique fabric may show slight color variations or marks from the start, which some might find part of its charm.

The four-wheel spinner setup, with large rear wheels and smaller front ones, makes rolling over rough surfaces smooth while maximizing interior space. Comfort is enhanced by the sturdy, telescoping handle and a durable polycarbonate back panel that absorbs impact. Inside, the bag is well-organized with four sections, including a mesh divider and a removable compression packing cube lined to separate odors and moisture, doubling as a handy day bag. Exterior pockets provide quick access to essentials like keys and jackets. It has three pockets in total and a key lock for security.

While the hard shell adds protection, it may feel less flexible compared to soft backpacks, and the weight might be noticeable during long carries. This backpack is ideal for travelers who prioritize organization, durability, and smooth mobility in a compact, eco-conscious design.