combination travel bag

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What’s the Best Personal Item Bag for Flying?

Between finding a carry-on that will fit in most overhead compartments, a toiletry bag or Dopp kit for your tiny bottles of shampoo, and an under-the-seat personal item to hold everything you’ll need for in-flight comfort and entertainment, solving the packing equation isn’t easy. To make things even more complicated, there aren’t even standard regulations for what counts as a “personal item” — as my fellow writer Rachael Griffiths explains here , each airline has its own particular requirements. If you’ve purchased a basic fare on a no-frills carrier like Frontier or Spirit, you’ll generally want to stick with a bag measuring 8 x 18 x 14 inches or smaller (and if you’re not sure how to fit everything into that, I’ve written a minimalist packing guide to help). On most other airlines, there’s a lot more you can get away with. Below, find advice from stylish frequent fliers (and Strategist staffers) about the totes, duffels, and backpacks they slip over the handles of their suitcases.

The best personal-item tote bags

Yolo Journal ’s Yolanda Edwards likes travel bags that don’t look like travel bags and can therefore be used for everyday sightseeing and shopping upon reaching your destination. Parker Thatch’s roomy totes fit the bill, and while they don’t have a luggage sleeve, Edwards has no problem slipping the handles of this one over her Rimowa suitcase. “And it’s great for going to the farmers’ market once I arrive where I’m going,” she adds.

“I look for a bag that can sit on top of my carry-on, fit a lot of items, and be easily stored when not in use,” says Daniela Velasco, the creative director of Drift magazine. That bag, for her, is Longchamp’s forever classic Le Pliage tote, which flattens and folds up for storage. Strategist senior editor Hilary Reid owns one in orange and is also “always surprised by how much fits inside.”

Is there a more quintessential carry-all than the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote? Writer and influencer Harry Hill doesn’t think so. “As someone who is usually drawn to more uppity travel bags, this trusty tote is a delight because of how unfussy it is,” Hill tells us. “It fits a ton, it’s super-lightweight, and I don’t have to worry about spilling coffee on the vachetta or putting it on the ground.” Hill suggests monogramming your name — or a crude joke, depending on personal preference. For additional customization, “the colorways are constantly changing, so keep an eye out if you have a specific vision for your tote.” While Hill adds that it’s impossible to go wrong, because any L.L.Bean “will make you look like a Kennedy skipping town,” the zip-up version of the bag will give more peace of mind at the airport.

Sewn in California from leftover sailing canvas, Pacific Tote Company’s bags are similar to L.L. Bean boat totes, except more brightly colored. The company is co-owned by director Roman Coppola (brother to Sofia, who carries Pacific Tote bags on set ) and beloved by bi-coastal film industry insiders. If you work in film and fly between L.A. and New York every other week, you carry your laptop in this pleasingly sturdy bag . Strategist columnist Chris Black is also a fan .

When she’s not traveling with her Parker Thatch bag, Edwards also likes to use Kule’s roomy totes as personal items. Saturday Night Live ’s Chloe Fineman travels with one of these too, and says it fits both a laptop and extra outfit inside. She adds that the “Oy Vey” design is “a little cheeky and a little funny,” as well as a nice reminder of home when she’s on the road.

Here’s another professional-looking, multi-purpose travel tote, as recommended by Strategist writer Lauren Ro. She says it makes a great carry-on personal item because it’s lightweight and custom-designed for air travel, with a luggage sleeve and exterior pockets for stashing chargers and tidbits, as well as a removable crossbody strap.

At least two friends that I know of ended up immediately purchasing a Baggu Cloud Carry-on after I flaunted mine at a destination wedding this past May. Made from weightless but durable nylon, the airplane-friendly version of the brand’s original Cloud Bag can hold a lot of stuff, and the bright colorways stand out in a sea of boring navy duffels at the airport. Puffy shoulder straps make standing in line at security a bit more tolerable, and generous external pockets are handy for stashing a book or water bottle. This bag’s dimensions are actually rather large (14 × 20 × 8 inches) for a personal item, but its bulkiness really depends on how much stuff you pack inside. I’ve taken mine on a personal-item-only Spirit flight with no issues at all, and on longer trips I have also slipped it over the handle of a Samsonite carry-on suitcase using the attached luggage sleeve.

The best personal-item duffel bags

Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw calls this Patagonia duffel his “ secret second suitcase ,” because its unassuming-yet-roomy interior lets him pack heavy without checking a bag. The Black Hole’s 30-liter capacity is about as large as a bag can be while still qualifying as the “personal item” you can bring onboard with your main carry-on suitcase and slide under the seat in front of you, Cheslaw notes. “Within that capacity, I can easily fit two pairs of shoes as well as a week’s worth of underwear, socks, and thin shirts, relieving a ton of pressure on my suitcase.”

This new-school garment bag, which made our Travel 100 list of the best products to take on the road, can keep a suit or gown unwrinkled while also cleverly storing several other outfits. It’s ideal for destination weddings, and Moonflower wine bar co-owner Rebecca Johnson even took hers all the way to Tasmania for a romantic antipodean getaway with her husband. Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, told me that it’s very popular among her exceedingly well-traveled colleagues.

For both carry-on backpacks and duffels, former Paper fashion editor Mario Abad turns to Dagne Dover’s neoprene travel bags. “They’re the best,” he says. “They’re really lightweight, and they’re made of this scuba material that looks sleek and modern and is nice to the touch.” The bags aren’t just aesthetically pleasing, though. “You can fit a lot of stuff inside — it’s a minimal aesthetic, no busy details or anything, just all the compartments you need.” Jessica Morrobel of  Traveling With Jessica agrees that the Landon is an “absolute lifesaver,” and  Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, is also a fan, especially for quick overnights. The duffel comes in five sizes, but medium is the best option if you know you’ll be flying on budget carriers with strict rules.

The best personal-item backpacks

This is my current personal item backpack of choice. It is designed to slip over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, but over Christmas I took it as my only luggage on a weeklong train trip across Turkey and Georgia and it fit everything I needed, including an extra pair of shoes. The neutral design is as appropriate for day hiking and office commuting as it is flying. But the capacity is the biggest drawcard. Creator Jessica Wright of Bon Traveler is a longtime user and says she is “shocked” by how much it can hold. Great for packers who like to compartmentalize, the interior is separated into various sleeves and sections for a laptop, clothing, and tech items. But you can also remove these compartments and just use it as a black hole bag if needed.

My fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths prefers this sleek Timbuk2 backpack with even more sleeves and compartments for organizing items on the move. It, too, can store “a week away’s worth of clothes and a fat beach read if you’re strategic,” she says. Which is ideal if you’re traveling personal-item-only.

The “clown car of personal items” is what writer and film wrangler Maggie Slepian calls this top-loading backpack from hiker-beloved brand Gregory. When she used it as her only luggage item for a four-day trip to the East Coast last fall, it fit a laptop, notebook, sandals, running shoes, rain jacket, jumpsuit, two pairs of leggings, two pairs of shorts, several shirts, toiletries, socks, undergarments, five pairs of headphones (over-ear, noise-canceling earbuds, white-noise only, corded for the plane, and AirPods for Zoom calls), and snacks. Her water bottle was stashed in the stretchy side pocket.

Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is “a really good bag,” as Strategist contributing writer Molly Dektar observes . Popular among globe-trotting art world types, it can be carried as either a tote or a backpack, depending on the situation, and it folds into its own internal pocket, for easy storage. It is practical without sacrificing style: “Though it is crafted of black ripstop, it does not scream, ‘I hike!’ and though it has a large number of pockets and adjustable straps, it does not scream, ‘I code!’”

Strategist senior editor Simone Kitchens is a fan of Patagonia’s Black Hole bags too — but she uses this more traditional-looking one. “ There are one zillion separate little pockets and perfectly sized compartments for things like chargers and night guards and passports and AirPods,” she explains, “as well as slim sleeves for a laptop and magazines.” The bag opens at the top, which means things won’t come tumbling out when you need to grab something. And while there’s a high level of organization happening on the inside, the bag has a smooth exterior: “ I quite like that the outside doesn’t look all that tricked out. ”

Despite fears of looking like a Scandinavian school child or 2012-era hipster, Strategist writer Dominique Pariso is loyal to her Kanken — and she’s not alone among our staff . “This backpack is so light, so compact, and so durable it really is ideal for stuffing under tiny airplane seats,” she explains. “Plus, you can fit way more stuff inside than seems humanly possible given its petite size.”

The best personal-item cross-bodies and fanny packs

Crescent-shaped bags have been everywhere over the past couple of years, but here’s one that’ll stand out from the crowd. Writer and artist Ludwig Hurtado says it’s big enough to fit your phone, headphones, passport, sunglasses, snacks, and even a book or two. And the cross-body strap makes it ideal for travel: “In theory, I love the look of a large tote bag, but when I’m running around the city or the airport, they tend to fall off my shoulder way too easily.” He took his to Paris Fashion Week as well as on a quick trip to Berlin, where it successfully helped him gain entry to Berghain.

On the more affordable side of things, Baggu’s take on the crescent trend is excellent for travel. I’ve had mine for a couple of years now and would be lost without it at the airport. It’s comfortable to wear, with a highly adjustable strap and two zippered internal pockets for securing your phone, passport, and wallet. The capacity is huge: I can fit a book and water bottle inside and still have room left over for other items. I’ve machine washed it several times with no issue. And while the bag looks smart, especially in the black colorway, it’s also low-key enough to avoid the attention of pickpockets. Hairstylist Teddi Cranford, who has visited Marrakech five times , says that it’s “essential for the souk,” because you can “just easily grab stuff out and zip it back up.”

Less sporty-looking than the ubiquitous Lululemon belt bag, and constructed from stretchy neoprene fabric that lets you stuff it full if you need to, our favorite fanny pack is perfect for the plane. As Strategist editor Maxine Builder explains, it’s made of “forgiving, easy-to-clean” neoprene, and “it expands a fair bit” so she can stuff more into it.

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The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and in the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other carry-on backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy, has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 3 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

Aer Travel Pack 3 : This pack was comfortable to wear thanks to its supportively firm and cushioned back, while its rugged fabric stood up well to rough handling. Our tester subtracted some points for capacity, as it was a squeeze to get everything on the list to fit, and for the more function-forward style.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack : This bag is very nice to look at and proved quite durable. However, it's on the small side and the features aren't particularly travel-oriented—namely, the inflexible bottle holder and the magnetic flip top that is easily displaced when the pack is full.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag : Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

Monos Metro Backpack : Another looker, the design of this bag got high praise. We liked the 270-degree opening, the easy-release front pouch, and the comfortable straps. At 18 liters, this back is more of a complement piece to other luggage and could use a better weight distribution system.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable : The expansion feature was a hit once we figured out how to use it and the durability of this pack was undeniable. It was difficult to look past a faulty zipper design that got caught frequently when trying to close.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

The size of backpacks is generally measured in volume (liters) or dimensions (inches or centimeters). While it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying, a good starting point for a carry-on when flying domestically is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 total linear inches (115 centimeters) including all handles and wheels. This size comes out to a 43-liter pack, so anything smaller should easily meet any U.S. airline size restrictions. However, this is only the beginning, and several factors may increase or decrease your allowance, such as the size of the plane and flight class you book.

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

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The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On Away Carry-On Read more

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

Best Bag for a Lifetime Briggs & Riley Baseline CX Read more

Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Carry-On for Most People

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Bag for a Lifetime

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright.

The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

Brian Barrett

Alistair Charlton

Brenda Stolyar

Best Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon with bombproof YKK zippers and has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both and I would only fly with if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Best Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: If you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $160 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $345 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 keep everything inside your bags organized by allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

Matt Jancer

Martin Cizmar

Medea Giordano

Nena Farrell

Adrienne So

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The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Next to a good carry-on suitcase, the right personal-item bag—what the airlines call any purse, briefcase, or small backpack—is key to having a stress-free flight.

The carry-all at your feet is the best place for your necessities: books, headphones, your phone, a laptop.

Of course, just about any bag, as long as it fits under a seat, can be a personal item, but having a great one is especially important if you’re flying basic economy, which may limit you to a single underseat item.

There’s more to great underseat luggage than its size. In this guide, we go over the features you should look for, including excellent quality of construction, multiple ways to carry the bag, and internal organization options.

From there, we look at different types of personal-item bags that have all those features but are suited to different needs: Some bags are more protective, which is good if you’re traveling with expensive or breakable items. Others are easier to carry, which is helpful if you find larger carry-ons cumbersome. And still others provide more divided compartments and extra pockets for travel necessities. We also offer a few picks to fit different situations.

The research

Why you should trust us, what is a personal-item bag, what makes a good personal-item bag, decide what type of personal-item bag you need, a wheeled bag with reinforced sides: travelpro crew versapack rolling tote, a handsome shoulder bag: waterfield air porter carry-on bag, an adaptable carry-all: the away everywhere bag, a classic tote in nylon: longchamp le pliage tote, the competition.

I’ve covered bags and luggage for Wirecutter since 2014. In that time, I’ve assessed hundreds of bags, ranging from carry-on luggage to travel backpacks to duffle bags . I’ve talked to bag designers, luggage experts, and people who make a life (and sometimes a living) as world travelers. For this article, we also looked at underseat size regulations for the major domestic airlines.

At its most basic, a personal-item bag is a carry-on bag that you can stuff under the seat in front of you while on a flight—which is why it’s sometimes called underseat luggage. Although we wanted to find bags that maximize your available underseat space, airlines generally aren’t as forthcoming with their underseat dimensions as they are with their overhead-bin restrictions. And personal-item sizes, once you do find them, usually differ from one airline to another:

Air Canada : 17 by 13 by 6 inches Alaska : not specified Allegiant : 16 by 15 by 7 inches American : 18 by 14 by 8 inches Breeze : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Delta : 22 by 15 by 9 inches Frontier : 18 by 14 by 8 inches JetBlue : 17 by 13 by 8 inches Southwest : 16.25 by 13.5 by 8 inches Spirit : 18 by 14 by 8 inches United : 17 by 10 by 9 inches

After checking with 12 airlines, we found that the average size of a personal-item bag is roughly 18 by 14 by 8 inches. If your bag isn’t rigid and comes close to these measurements, you’re probably going to be okay stuffing it under the seat in front of you. If you really want to be sure your underseat luggage will fit, the best way is to call ahead and confirm the underseat dimensions for your flight.

Similar to carry-on luggage, underseat luggage is subject to size and shape requirements. However, unlike most of the things people fly with—nearly all of which are precisely designed for airplane use—almost any small bag (your favorite backpack or tote, for instance) can work as a personal item. That said, there are a few details that separate a great personal-item bag from an ordinary one. Beyond it being just the right size, we’ve found that a personal item should have a few key design details to really stand out.

• Durability: A personal-item bag will spend a bunch of time sitting on an airplane floor, an unappealing resting place of shoe grime, spilled liquids, and lost snacks. It’s important that a bag is made of material that’s both resistant to abrasion and easy to clean.
• Organization: As more airlines begin to introduce Basic Economy tickets, which often restrict travelers to personal items only, having a bag that can mimic some of the capacity and organization of a carry-on becomes increasingly important. We prefer a variety of pockets, ideally a separate laptop compartment, and some kind of water-bottle holder.
• Multiple carrying options: Some underseat luggage pieces designed with air travel in mind have sleeves that you can slide over the rails of carry-on luggage handles. But other carrying options, like backpack straps, shoulder straps, or side handles, can also facilitate easy maneuverability.

Lots of luggage manufacturers now sell bags specifically labeled “personal items,” and some of these have useful features that you might not find in your average backpack or tote bag (more on that later). Still, if you have a bag that already works for you, stick with it. If not, check out our picks below, but also look at the recommendations in our guides to laptop backpacks (most of which will fit under a seat), to duffles (ditto), and any of the picks in our guides to packable daypacks  and tote bags . One of those might work just as well for you as a made-for-the-purpose personal item.

For this guide, of those bags specifically designed to be personal items, we looked for models from reputable brands that we’ve recommended in the past, that meet the average underseat dimensions, and that have the traits to make it a great personal-item bag. Then we chose bags that offered different features to suit multiple types of travel scenarios and preferences.

We have a wheeled-bag pick for people who prefer to roll their bag behind them. We have picks that carry like totes. Some of the bags we chose have pass-through straps to loop over the handles of your carry-on luggage . Though this last feature can help you manage the load of a suitcase and a bag, several luggage designers I’ve talked to over the years have said that one of the most common ways to break a carry-on is to rest something too heavy across the telescoping handles. Though they’re able to pull a decent weight, these handles are not designed to support large or heavy loads across their narrow frames. With this in mind, we have options for travelers who prefer pass-through straps as well as those who don’t.

Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote

A wheeled bag with reinforced sides.

Designed to fit under an airline seat, this diminutive version of our favorite carry-on luggage rolls along on wheels, has a long extending handle, and its reinforced sides mean it’s tougher than your average fabric tote or backpack.

Buying Options

Who it’s for: The Travelpro Crew VersaPack Rolling Tote’s small squat form sits on two wheels, which makes it a remarkably maneuverable case for anyone who doesn’t prefer (or is unable) to carry their personal item on their shoulder or back. The Crew Tote also mounts well to the handles of a carry-on suitcase with a pass-through strap that’s held tight with Velcro.

Why it’s great for travel: The compact Crew Tote is large enough to carry everything you need for an overnight trip but still falls within the average US airline underseat dimensions. However, if you catch a seat with an underseat power bank or any other kind of obstruction, you won’t be able to wedge this case into place like you might be able to do with a soft bag or backpack. That said, the internal frame, wrapped in nylon fabric similar to soft-sided carry-on luggage, should endure plenty of accidental kicks and scuffs. That reinforcement is particularly useful if you’re packing delicate items, such as cameras, extra computer equipment, or fragile gifts.

We’ve recommended Travelpro Platinum Elite luggage for years in our carry-on and checked suitcases guides because of its durability, dependability, and lifetime warranty (that also protects against airline damage for the first three years). Like those other Travelpro picks, the Crew Tote meets the same standards in materials, build quality, and guarantee.

Pockets and organization: The Crew Tote has one main compartment, as well as a front pocket for small papers and tickets. The main compartment of the Crew Tote is built and organized like a small piece of carry-on luggage, with rolling wheels and internal, zippered organizational compartments, combined with some aspects useful in a personal item, such as a padded sleeve (it holds up to a 14-inch laptop) and a pass-through sleeve. The tote is also compatible with Travelpro’s customizable packing-cube system (video) , which we discuss in the Competition section of our packing cubes guide.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: As with any rolling luggage, you lose a little packing space to the handle and wheel carriage. The rigid shape of the Crew Tote means there’s very little wiggle room if, for whatever reason, it doesn’t fit under the seat in front of you. Despite the inclusion of a small, exterior, flexible pocket—nominally for an umbrella or water bottle—we found that it was too small to be of much use for anything except a very narrow plastic water bottle.

Dimensions: 16.5 by 15.75 by 8.5 inches Weight: 6.7 pounds Capacity: 22.5 liters

Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag

A shoulder bag to organize your tech.

The versatility and toughness of a canvas-and-leather briefcase, with the organization and capacity of a small daypack.

Who it’s for: The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a high-end personal item made for air travel. But the bag truly shines as a tech organizer that still has enough room to also hold a change of clothes. Plus, it’s good-looking enough to carry from the plane to the boardroom without raising an eyebrow.

Why it’s great for travel: The Waterfield Air Porter has a pass-through strap you can attach to a wheeled-suitcase handle, and like our other picks, the bag fits well under an airline seat. In addition to the waterproof waxed-canvas exterior, which makes the bag easy to wipe off if it comes out from under the seat looking dusty or spilled-on, Waterfield bags have waterproof exterior zippers and water-resistant interior lining. The Air Porter is built to look better with age, while also keeping your stuff safe from the elements and stress of travel. In addition to the pass-through strap, the bag has handles (so you can carry it like a briefcase) and a removable shoulder strap, which keeps it from getting caught on things while it’s stowed away.

Waterfield also makes an Air Caddy to hold your tablet and cables. If you don’t already have a tech organizer , I recommend it. The Air Caddy is as well built as the Air Porter, plus it fits nicely inside the bag and matches the overall look. (Unfortunately, Waterfield no longer offers a discount for bundling in an Air Caddy when you buy the Air Porter.)

Pockets and organization: The bag is split into two compartments. One half has a built-in padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop and two pockets for tech accessories (including wires, headphones, and charging components), both of which are large enough to hold a battery pack for on-the-go charging. The other half is the larger compartment, with plenty of small interior pockets to assist you in organizing things like a few small pieces of clothing or a toiletry kit. The Air Porter also has a front expanding pocket, with magnets that keep the flap closed whether the pocket’s empty or full. It’s a great feature if you often travel with magazines and books. On either side, the Air Porter has two expanding sleeves for holding a travel umbrella and a water bottle.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Air Porter is our priciest pick, but considering the quality of the materials and craftsmanship, we think it’s worth the price—this bag will last a lifetime if cared for properly. We do wish it were a little larger so you could take full advantage of the space available at your feet. Waterfield has a 30-day return policy with no restocking fee, but you will have to cover return shipping costs. Additionally, Waterfield offers a lifetime warranty for any product defects.

Dimensions: 15 by 10.25 by 4.5 inches Weight: 2.4 pounds Capacity: 11.25 liters

Away The Everywhere Bag

A hold-all to attach to your carry-on.

This bag slides over the handles of your carry-on for easy transport. It’s made of durable nylon and has plenty of space for in-flight essentials.

Who it’s for: The Away Everywhere Bag feels aggressively designed to offend absolutely no one. It is the true neutral of all personal items, with plenty of carrying options and as many organization options as our other picks. If you want a personal item that’s both simple and well-organized and similar to a weekend duffle bag or large tote (with enough space for a spare outfit, toiletry bag, and a laptop), this is an excellent pick.

Why it’s great for travel: The Everywhere Bag is made of water- and abrasion-resistant nylon, which is perfect for the floor of an airplane. The bag also has a removable shoulder strap, and like most of our other picks, it includes a sleeve for slipping over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, which makes it convenient to carry atop your luggage.

Pockets and organization: The interior features six slim pockets and a sleeve large enough for a 15-inch laptop. At the base of the bag, there’s a zippered waterproof pocket for an umbrella. Outside the bag is a single slim pocket, well-shaped for tickets and important travel documents. Otherwise, the bag opens into a larger interior pocket, which is enough to hold a change of clothes, a toiletry kit, and a book or magazine. If you’re flying for just an overnight trip, this could easily be the only bag you need to carry. (The bag comes in two versions: Original, which has a main zipper that extends partway down the ends of the bag, and New, which has a main zipper that extends all the way down each end of the bag, providing a larger opening.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Without any interior separation, all your gear is mashed together along with your computer and tech. There isn’t a special pocket for a water bottle, which means if you carry one, it is dangerously close to everything else.

Dimensions: 16.3 by 7.3 by 10.2 inches Weight : 2.6 pounds Capacity: 20 liters

Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag

A stylish, expandable tote.

This tote packs up small when not in use, and the tough nylon is perfect for the floor of an airplane: It’s easy to clean and protects its contents from most scuffs and kicks it might receive on a long flight.

Who it’s for: The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is great if you need an adaptable personal item that can easily double as a purse or work bag as soon as you leave the plane. Unlike many bags made to be this tough, the Longchamp is handsome and looks good enough to easily transition from travel bag to daily carry.

Why it’s great for travel: The lightweight (especially compared with leather bags) Le Pliage Tote shines as a travel bag because of its simple, packable design and practical materials. The nylon construction wipes down easily if spilled on, and you can fold it down and pack it away if you want to consolidate down to one bag on any leg of your trip.

The Le Pliage’s shoulder strap is made of rolled leather, which our tester said kept the strap from biting into their shoulder as much as unrolled leather straps can. Its main compartment is large enough to hold a laptop, sweatshirt, water bottle, and other assorted travel items. It zips shut, so you won’t lose anything even as you stuff it underneath your seat. The understated shape and design of the bag also blends in nicely with both professional and casual outfits.

Pockets and organization: There is one modest pocket on top for your phone, wallet, and keys. However, we found that even this pocket felt a touch small.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: For a bag that’s great for taking right from the plane to the office, we wished for a laptop compartment, or some other way to separate items beyond the single top pocket. In our testing, we ended up organizing the tote ourselves with bag organizers . The Le Pliage lacks a pass-through strap or slot for attaching to the handles of your carry-on luggage.

Dimensions: 12.25 by 11.75 by 7.5 inches Weight: 0.7 pounds Capacity: 17 liters

Cotopaxi Nazca 24L Travel Pack: The clamshell design of this backpack, a former pick in this guide, was perfect for anyone who liked to separate their gear into individual pockets and compartments. The bag was well made, shaped to fit under just about any airline seat, and warrantied for a lifetime of travel. Sadly, it’s been discontinued.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Duffle Bags

by Kit Dillon

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose seven bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

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The 5 Best Carry-on and Personal Item Combos to Replace Your Checked Bag

Shannon McMahon

Editor Shannon McMahon is always planning her next trip and often writing in her travel journal. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ and on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

Shannon joined SmarterTravel in 2015. A former news reporter, she's lived in the south of Spain, spotted elephants in Sri Lanka, gone spelunking in the Caribbean, hiked Jordan's Petra Basin, interviewed Sao Paulo's Michelin-Star chefs, and explored China via bullet train. Travel trends, news oddities, and her visits to up-and-coming destinations are some of her favorite things to write about.

Her stories have also appeared online on USA Today, The Sun, Huffington Post, Business Insider, blog.TripAdvisor.com, Boston.com, and more. Her educational background is in journalism, art history, gender studies, Spanish, and film. She's been quoted as an expert travel source by CNBC, People.com, MarketWatch, The Washington Post, USA Today, and more.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Plenty of extra thick hair elastics. They tame my frizzy curls and come in handy in a surprising number of packing and hotel dilemmas."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Climbing (yes, climbing, it's steep!) the Great Wall of China before it's gone."

Travel Motto : "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." - Mark Twain

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window, of course."

Email Shannon at [email protected] .

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Once the standard for international air travel, checking a bag has become an increasingly expensive feat. And if the bag fees haven’t had you abandon your bag checking habit yet, the high rates of lost and damaged luggage on certain airlines might. The solution: Forgo a checked bag altogether in favor of the best carry-on and personal item combos, so you can spend less time at baggage claim and more time exploring.

The Best Carry-on and Personal Item Combos

Replacing a larger suitcase is a job for streamlined, ultra-organized luggage and personal item bags like the ones below. Here are 10 that create the best combos to consider, or to mix and match for maximum effect.

Genius Pack Aerial Hardside Spinner + Dagne Dover Medium Landon Carryall

My personal workhorses for abandoning the luggage carousel are Genius Pack’s Aerial Hardside Spinner and Dagne Dover’s Medium Landon Carryall , each of which has a stylish, minimalist exterior that’s bolstered by surprisingly organized inner compartments. Genius Pack’s spinner has a separate laundry compartment paired with zippered pockets that are labeled for easy access to all the necessities (“chargers,” “socks,” etc.), plus an added packing list to remind you of what you need.

Dagne Dover’s neoprene carryall accomplishes similar organization with an inner tablet sleeve, a zippered accessories compartment, a water bottle sleeve, and a removable zipped shoe bag perfect for separating everything from dusty sneakers to dirty laundry. The bag also conveniently opens wider than most duffels thanks to snap buttons that disconnect the zipper ends from the bag’s body, so you can easily see inside.

Victorinox Connex Frequent Flyer Hardside and Victoria 2.0 Deluxe Business Tote

Frequent business travelers probably already know Victorinox’s durability and utility, but the Connex Frequent Flyer Hardside comes in a stylish array of colors, has a built-in combination lock, and can expand an extra two inches for added packing power. The Victoria 2.0 Deluxe Business Tote is similarly stylish-yet-business-appropriate thanks to its leather straps, rear sleeve to slip over your telescoping suitcase handle, and plethora of pockets.

OGIO ALPHA Convoy Four-Wheel Spinner Carry-on and Boundary Modular Errant Pack

An expanding carry-on that makes protecting your laptop a priority, OGIO’s ALPHA Convoy Spinner has huge outer pockets that allow easy access to more than just the smallest items—keep a change of clothes in the outer pocket for optimal ease of changing on a layover, or stock it with larger in-flight essentials like socks, back-up chargers, and sleep accessories. One of the outer pockets is a spacious laptop sleeve, so you won’t be fumbling to remove your computer in the security line.

A similarly utilitarian bag with a sleek look, Boundary’s Errant Pack has electronics sleeves and a hidden compartment for your passport. Like all the best carry-on bags, its zipper runs longer than most so that it can open wide like a book. Plus, it has specialized compartments for everything, from its document sleeve to the shoe compartment.

The Errant Pack is lightweight with a robust array of features and tons of space, including a spot for your computer and dry storage on the bottom.

North Face 20-Inch Stratoliner-M and Solo New York Grand Travel TSA Backpack

An adventure-worthy carry-on that meets all international airlines’ cabin bag limits, the North Face 20-Inch Stratoliner-M earned recognition from SmarterTravel’s Editors’ Choice Awards for best carry-on thanks to its straightforward packing space, elegant exterior, and durable construction. It even has a lifetime warranty, so you’ll never need to buy another carry-on.

Make up for its lack of bells and whistles with Solo New York’s Grand Travel TSA Backpack , which features a TSA-approved laptop sleeve design, a 30-liter capacity main compartment, front pockets and side mesh pockets, plus a back panel that slides over luggage handles—which is notably missing from most backpacks. Its multiple handles, padded back, and durable straps make it easy to carry, and compression straps in the main compartment make for tighter packing.

Speck Travel 22-Inch Carry-on and Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack

It doesn’t get much more organized than a carry-on with not one but four zippered compartments inside Speck Travel’s 22-Inch Carry-on , including one built into the main compartment’s luggage straps for optimal packing power when you need to fit more clothing. Its sleek outer also makes it perfect for both work and leisure trips.

Pair it with Tortuga’s SetOut Laptop Backpack , a 25-liter personal item that is equally work- and play-friendly and opens like a suitcase so you can fit all your necessities plus a change of clothes, shoes, a laptop, and a tablet.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Underseat Carry-on Bags You Can Take on Any Flight
• 11 Affordable Carry-on Bags Under $150
• 7 Things Not to Do When Packing a Carry-on Bag

Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The Best Convertible Backpack Purse for Travel as Recommended by Readers

FASHION , Handbags , Travel Accessories

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When sightseeing or navigating an airport or train station, toting around a purse backpack combo affords a lot of flexibility since they can be worn multiple ways which makes them highly versatile and the different wearing options can help avoid shoulder pain as well! See these reader recommendations for the best women’s convertible backpack purse !

Convertible Purse Backpack Ideas

Table of contents.

Multi-use bags that can be converted into a backpack, tote, or crossbody make an awesome addition to your capsule wardrobe !

They not only offer different carrying options which can alleviate discomfort on the shoulders and lower back but also provide variety in outfit looks—from casual to elevated—check out these top reader picks for a functional and cute convertible travel backpack that could be gracing your adventures soon!

Reader Recommendations for Best Backpack Convertible Purse

Fjallraven Kanken Tote Backpack

Top Reader Pick: Fjallraven Kanken Backpack Tote Combo (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)

The Fjallraven Kanken was voted as the ​​ best convertible tote backpack by readers and is an all-time top seller! So versatile and functional, the webbed straps can be worn over the shoulder or use the two straps to wear as a typical backpack.

Made of sturdy fabric, this puppy is dirt and water-resistant, and easy to clean—just wipe it down! A top loader, you can fit a 13” laptop or tablet in a padded sleeve and there are side and front pockets to organize all your essentials.

One reader proclaims this as her go-to, “ I’ve owned my Kanken for two years now. I love it; it’s my only bag for weekend getaways and my personal item for every type of trip I go on.” While another TFG community member shares her family’s experience with it, “My daughter had hers all over Italy, France, and England. She had no problems carrying it and it’s super cute too.” Buy it here!

The Sak Ventura II Convertible Backpack

The Sak Ventura II Backpack Crossbody Purse (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)

Readers time and again recommend The Sak Ventura as a stellar backpack crossbody bag for it’s luxe look and different ways to wear it, either as a across the shoulder or slung on your back. Travelers say this is great for European museums, since backpacks are prohibited most of the time! A reader also highlights its safety features, “ Cute bag, and someone mentioned recently that the top fold over bags are a little more secure against pickpockets.”

With the antique silver hardware and lots of pockets for organization, you can also use this as a business travel bag as it fits a 13” laptop as well. There’s even a cute pocket to store pens (who doesn’t need one in the border check line?). Another TFGer describes its usability, “ The Sak Ventura backpack is great. Converts to cross body, very roomy but not overwhelming.” Buy it here!

Sakroots Eco-Twill Loyola Convertible Backpack

Sakroots Loyola Convertible Crossbody Backpack Purse (With Laptop Compartment)

One reader who visited New York City explains why she adores this backpack crossbody convertible purse from Sakroots, “ I didn’t want to spend a fortune, wanted it to be somewhat sleek, feel great, be lightweight, not knock people out when maneuvering crowds, have side drink pouches, and a compartment on the back side that would be difficult for a pickpocket to easily access. I saw this one and knew it fit the bill!!”

Made of eco-friendly but durable materials that are stain and water resistant, this has a ton of storage pockets, a laptop compartment, side pockets for water or drinks, and even a back zipper pocket perfect for keeping your passport and boarding pass tucked away. Giving off a boho vibe with the colorful tassles, this is a functional, yet fun bag to carry around! Buy it here!

Travelon Convertible Backpack Crossbody Bag and Tote

Travelon Anti-Theft Convertible Bag Backpack (With RFID Protection)

A highly popular brand with TFG readers as one sa ys, “ Love Travelon… have four of their bags!” And we tend to agree, they make amazing bags for travel! This cute and polished convertible handbag has slash-proof mesh panels and straps, as well as RFID blocking inside pockets and compartments that lock, making this a must-get for travel in Europe!

It also has numerous ways to organize, with zippered and slip pockets and it also has a strap to slip over luggage. But the main attraction is how many ways you can wear this bag—three to be exact—as a tote, backpack, or crossbody!

Another reader echoes her love for these, “ I have several Travelon bags and really like them because of how the zippers lock. Gives me peace of mind when I’m someplace new.” Buy it here!

We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women , and our readers have voted for their favorite styles!

PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack

Pacsafe Citysafe Anti-Theft Convertible Laptop Backpack (With 16” Laptop Sleeve)

Long-time readers and female travelers adore Pacsafe for producing stylish yet excellent anti-theft bags. The Citysafe 17L convertible laptop bag is definitely a contender in both looks and functionality with slash-proof material and padded shoulder straps which can be secured to a table leg to keep it anchored down. The interlocking zippers, laptop padded sleeve (can fit a 16” Macbook Pro), RFID blocking pockets, and expandable compartments for an umbrella or water bottle make this an anti-theft and organizational dream!

Top it off with the carrying options via the top handles, lengthen the strap into a crossbody or sling, or use it as a backpack, along with the handy luggage sleeve, as well as the sleek look and gold hardware means you’ll look good and navigate easily through security or walking the streets of Paris.

A TFG reader shares, “ It was great for my SE Asia trip. I used it in backpack mode for touring and crossbody mode at night.” While another says, “I used it in Greece and Italy and it was great. In purse mode, I got into all museums except the Borghese Gallery as no purses were allowed at all in there.” Buy it here!

Osprey Arcane Tote Backpack

Osprey Arcane Convertible Backpack Tote (With 15” Laptop Sleeve)

If you’ve been a reader of TFG for a while, you may have noticed I’m incredibly brand loyal. Osprey is a brand that first impressed me on my 9-month round-the-world trip with the Aura 65L , and it’s been my go-to travel and outdoor gear brand ever since! I’ve also had the I had the 55L Farpoint and used it constantly.

So, it’s amazing to see readers hopping on the bandwagon with the Osprey Arcane tote backpack convertible bag ! One TFG reader says about this, “ It makes a great carry-on and laptop bag, and it has a lot of structure.” This is a top loader that folds over so offers a bit more security, with front pockets and interior ones to hold your essentials. It can also hold a 15” laptop in its padded sleeve.

The top handles can be slung over the shoulder or tucked away when not in use. Marketed as an outdoor bag, it could be fine for light hikes but likely nothing hardcore. However, it’s still made with the brand’s signature durable fabric and has a DWR finish to repel water. Buy it here!

Sherpani Soleil Anti Theft Backpack

Sherpani Soleil Anti-Theft Nylon Convertible Backpack (With 15” Laptop Sleeve)

In recent years, the Sherpani Soleil 3 in 1convertible backpack has become a reader favorite! One exclaims, “ I used it for four weeks in Europe this summer. Loved it!” This durable and water-resistant bag has numerous compartments to hold anything from a phone to a water bottle, or a small makeup bag, and there’s a laptop sleeve as well as a luggage sleeve.

More budget-oriented than some Pacsafe products, this comes loaded with anti-theft features that include anti-slash fabric, zip locks, RFID blocking protection, and a looping lock system for chairs or table legs. The 3 in 1 function means you can wear it as a crossbody, use it as a tote, or backpack, making it super versatile!

And the way it looks? This TFG reader doesn’t hold back, “Wow! It’s beautiful, versatile, and affordable!” Buy it here!

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

Baggallini 3-in-1 Convertible Backpack With RFID Phone Wristlet

Baggallini Convertible Tote Bag Backpack Crossbody – 3 In 1 (With RFID Wristlet)

Known for making durable, sleek, and timeless luggage options, Baggalini has been a long-time reader favorite. Made of water-resistant fabric, this cute and unique backpack purse can be organized easily with multiple side, exterior, and interior pockets, and you’ll have tons of wearing options, from a chic tote, practical cross-body, or a hands-free backpack.

One TFG reader share a travel experience, “ I just took it on a trip from the USA to Scotland. If held a change of clothes, Kindle, snacks, a 16 oz water bottle, some toiletries, and more! It fit perfectly under the seat on all my planes and was easy to get around with. It has lots of nice pockets.” And as a bonus, the bag comes with an adorably matching wristlet that can be a purse organizer or an evening bag for a night out. Buy it here!

Vera Bradley Convertible Handbag Backpack

Vera Bradley Convertible Backpack Handbag

As one reader announces, “I have loved Vera Bradley for years!” The Vera Bradley convertible bags can go over one shoulder, act as a tote, or be a backpack and make an excellent option for a personal item or carry on backpack.

There are so many pockets (zip, cargo, and more!) to store your items and there’s even a shoe compartment. This bag features 2 slip and 1 zip pocket on the exterior along with 2 slip and 1 zip pocket on the inside – keeping you perfectly organized. A TFG reader says she “loves this bag and used it as a personal item many times!” Buy it here!

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

Lo & Sons Rowledge Travel Tote Backpack (With 13-14” Laptop Sleeve)

While its price is higher than other bags, the Lo & Sons Rowledge tote backpack laptop option is specially designed for travel, especially for business travelers. Many readers adore their O.G. 2.0 travel weekender tote bag , but if you’re looking for a convertible option, this could fit the bill in quality and functionality.

One reader says, “I find that it fits my needs really well for a versatile work and travel option, and I love the style!” The Rowledge is a durable, yet sleek-looking nylon fabric with water-resistant zippers and it has multiple pockets to make it easy to organize pens, phonoes, wallet, and keys, including a side pocket for a water bottle. It’s also available in a small and large size, with a few inchies difference between the two. The large size can fit a 14” laptop comfortably, while the smaller size can fit about a 13”.

The Jaquard interior lining is simply luxurious and you can use the trolley sleeve to slide over the handles of your carryon suitcase. One satisfied TFG readers shares their travel experience with this backpack, “It’s structured, but still soft enough to cram things in when I’m flying, and I love the feet on the bottom, keeps it upright and it doesn’t get super dirty. Tthe look is very clean and professional, while still feeling high-end but not overly feminine and it fits well under an airplane seat without taking up leg room.” Buy it here!

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

Best Budget Convertible Backpacks

ECOSUSI Vegan Leather Convertible Backpack Bag

Ecosusi Vegan Leather Convertible Backpack Shoulder Bag (With 14” Laptop Sleeve)

Voted as the best travel purse backpack for its usefulness and budget price , this cute Ecosusi bag can become a tote, backpack, or be worn over the shoulder. Superb as a personal item or business trip bag, it has a main compartment with a padded 14” laptop sleeve and numerous pockets to organize notebooks, pens, makeup, including a secret zippered pocket in the back for a discreet storage spot.

It’s also a terrific eco option as it’s made from vegan leather and the tassel and sleek lines make it a combination of “ great quality, style, and functionality!” One user gives a mini-review, “ I like the comfortable feel of this bag. The inside has plenty of room as the bag is quite deep. The material looks like leather but it’s not. The price was right.” Buy it here!

TFG readers also love the Ecosusi Weekender Bag, though not convertible, it’s great for overnight or short trips; read our review here !

UTO Backpack Purse Leather Vegan With Tassel

UTO Vegan Leather Convertible Shoulder Bag /Backpack (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)

A wonderful budget option that’s said to be an organizer’s happy place, the vegan leather UTO convertible handbags have a plethora of interior and exterior pockets, along with a side one for water, as well as a padded sleeve inside that holds a tablet or laptop.

A TFG reader gives a thorough description of her immediate experience with this bag, “ I did a quick test pack today to see how much it will hold. I squeezed in a ton of toiletries, chargers, and entertainment as well as sandals, a maxi skirt, and tank top. The faux leather is very pliable and there are so many pockets, including a back zipper for my phone and small wallet. The side pockets are super deep and secure.”

For carrying options, it has a top handle, two adjustable back straps, and one shoulder strap, so there are many ways to use it—a very chic and practical must-have! Buy it here!

LXY Vegan Leather Vintage Backpack Purse

LXY Faux Leather Convertible Backpack Laptop Bag (With 14” Laptop Sleeve)

For some of the best backpack purses , the LXY laptop backpack is a popular choice. It has six compartments that include a laptop sleeve (14”) and two anti-theft pockets hidden nicely away (one in the back and one in front flap). You can adjust the straps up to 45” to wear like a shoulder bag, too!

And a cool feature, you can adjust the width with a hidden button, so if you’re not carrying much, you can compact it. One traveler says, “ I’m a huge backpack lover and didn’t want to drop a ton of money on something that’s going to get tossed around. I seriously love this bag. I love the way it looks and the utility of it, especially the zip pocket on the inside—I’d feel safe keeping my passport in there. ”

With its vintage look and sleek hardware, considering this is a no-brainer! Buy it here!

CLUCI Backpack Purse Faux Leather

CLUCI Faux Leather Stylish Backpack Purse

If you don’t do a lot of business travel or prefer to travel with a tablet instead of a laptop, the CLUCI is a backpack and purse in one and is the very image of luxe (and practical)! With a huge main compartment and lots of zippered areas, you can store everything from a hotel room keycard, umbrella, cell phone, water bottle, and tablet. This also has an anti-theft design, as the closure is in the back and the back zipper has a function to keep pickpockets at bay.

One adventurer says this is perfect for exploring new places with peace of mind, “ I got this bag for traveling after someone tried to unzip my other backpack in Paris. It’s stylish and keeps my things safe since the zipper is against my back. I like the removable strap so I can throw it over my shoulder when needed. I love this bag!”

And it’s durable—as droplets of water don’t affect it much and the chic hardware is anti-corrosion. Buy it here!

Read how to choose the best  travel purse !

BOYATU Purse Backpack Bag With Reinforced Straps

BOYATU High-Quality PU Leather Backpack Purse Convertible Style

This BOYATU convertible travel backpack closes in clever and safe ways with a pull rope and a magnetic buckle. Super soft, but full of tons of organizational compartments, including a side, back, and interior pockets to keep everything in its place.

The strap can be adjusted to 33” so you can wear it over the shoulder. One user mentions the biggest plus about this backpack, “ My favorite thing about this bag is the fact that it has so many pockets and compartments. On top of it, It has a high-quality feel to it, while the price was right.” 

Zocilor Convertible Backpack Purse Travel Bag

Zocilor Convertible Travel Bag (With Multi Pockets)

For a chic and fun purse and backpack combo , the Zocilor Travel Bag  has a sleek m ultipurpose design that easily converts handbag to backpack purse and shoulder bag , so secure and stylish, along with numerous interior and exterior pockets for lots of organizational options. Adjustable backpack straps and detachable shoulder strap.

An economical way to look elevated without paying a ton, this is wonderful for travel or daily use. Buy it here!

Best Leather Convertible Backpack Purse

The Sak Loyola Mini Backpack

Sak Loyola Convertible Leather Backpack Purse

An excellent leather option for under $100, the Sak Loyola offers popular backpack purses that have style and function in one. Able to be a crossbody as well, it has multiple pockets inside and outside to store small essentials.

While not something for business travel, this is ideal for a personal onboard item or a terrific for a sightseeing bag. This user is very happy with her find, “ The convertible backpack/crossbody design is genius! It’s super well made and fits everything I need. It’s so comfortable as a backpack I forget it’s on. Then say I’m in a crowded place and want to keep it closer, boom it’s a crossbody within my sight. Amazing!” Buy it here!

Fossil Camilla Convertible Backpack

Fossil Camilla Soft Leather Convertible Backpack Purse

A reader favorite, this 100% leather Fossil laptop tote backpack has a back zipper to safely stow something as well as lots of other pocket options to organize, as well as room for a 13” laptop.

A traveler gives a short review, “I purchased this bag for an upcoming vacation, and now that I’m back, I can easily say this bag made all the difference. It’s large enough to hold a 32 oz water bottle, rain coat, umbrella, batteries, reusable shopping bags, Kindle, and a slew of other things. Not to mention I LOVE the back pocket which is easily accessible while it’s on, and I kept my wallet and phone in there without even feeling it.”

This pictured color (henna) is loved by readers, in case you’re looking for color ideas! This is a quality bag that can be worn on the shoulder or as a tote as well and it will last for years. Buy it here!

If you need the  best packable tote , read our list!

Cuyana Backpack Purse

Cuyana Leather Convertible Leather Backpack (With 13”-16” Laptop Sleeve)

If you’re a purveyor of fine Italian products, the convertible backpack purse designer Cuyana has crafted is an elegant, classig design that can fit all your essentials, as well as a dedicated laptop compartment that accommodates 13”-16” size laptops.

It has nice, wide straps, easy to use magnetic closures, and you can carry as a tote or over the shoulder. Cuyana is LWG certified, which means that the leather is tanned responsibly. Buy it here!

Ili RFID Leather Convertible Backpacks (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)

A high-quality pick, the Ili convertible leather bag offers everything a traveler wants, boasting RFID blocking technology, multiple pockets, and a 13” padded laptop compartment.

With a sleek hardware and shape, this would be ideal for more fashionable cities like New York and also European travel. Buy it here!

Traveling with a laptop? Check out these  business backpacks!

Womens Convertible Bag Product Comparison Chart

What’s your favorite women’s convertible laptop backpack ? Please comment below!

For more tips and ideas on travel bags, please read:

• Top Anti-Theft Travel Bags for Women – Best Sellers!
• What are the Best Travel Bags with Trolley Sleeve?
• Best Messenger Bags: Functional and Adorable Options
• Cross Body Purses: The Best Travel Shoulder Bags for Women

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I hope you liked this post on why we love a convertible backpack purse for travel. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

13 comments.

I ended up buying the Sak Loyola based on this post and found it on sale this weekend. I mostly wanted something purse-like and sleek to fit my laptop in between the office and home, but I think it will be really helpful for my underseat item for traveling too!

Great list! I have The Sak Ventura 2 bag in tobacco. I took it to my local leather shop and had a matching 8” grab handle added to the top rings. This allows me to slip the bag onto my wrist or carry it by this short handle. This makes the bag incredibly versatile. Because of the unique suspension system, I can also carry it as a backpack, backpack with the flap turned against my back, shoulder bag, or crossbody. The bag well-made and nicely lined. Naturally cut resistant. I sewed some attachment points into the lining for my wallet and phone tethers, keys, etc. It’s big enough for a full day out, including a jacket (in a small packing cube), bottle of water and snacks, but the flat shape keeps it from becoming bulky. I can hold it in my lap during meals and transit. I appreciate the carrying options, because I like to use a backpack for my main bag, with a medium size handbag for my personal item and day bag.

I am on a search for the right one for me!

I have an older Travelon convertible backpack that we used when sightseeing in Europe.

Just purchased a Sherpani sojourn to use as my under seat bag for an upcoming trip to Europe. Can’t wait to give it a try.

I have a different version of the Sherpani (mine is a Sojourn) and love it! I’m going to have to try and get my hands on one of the teal Soleils. I also have a different verion of the Pixie Mood (mine is the Cora), which I haven’t used as much. I’ll have to consider it more often.

Thank you for sharing your love of the Sherpani backpacks with us Cheri! 🙂

I have the exact Sakroots bag shown. It’s a good idea, but the patterned version of it is not stiff enough or structured enough. It collapses on itself all the time and the adjustable straps never stay put. The bag ends up at my knees in crossbody mode. This bag will only drive you crazy. The concept is good, but doesn’t function like it should.

Good to know, thanks!

I have the same bag. I agree 100% with your comment. Hence, my search for a new convertible backpacks begins.

I have one too and I agree with J.C and Elle. I now use the Tumi Jackie convertible bag, it’s way better than this one!

I love the Henri Bendel Convertible Backpack. It is super cute, comes in many colors, and is very versatile.

I would love to know what the bag is in the top, title picture for this article.

The image used is a stock photo, however the bag is similar to item 2 on the list 🙂

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The best carry-on luggage of 2024.

Discover the best carry-on luggage for your unique travel style and needs.

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Things aren't always as they seem – especially when it comes to luggage. In our quest to find the best carry-on bags, we discovered that while some suitcases look good, they don't always hold up to the demands of travel. Some designs have attractive features that add bulk but not additional functionality, while others just don't live up to the hype.

To determine the best carry-on luggage, we tested dozens of bags on countless trips to find the ideal bag for every travel need. Read on to find the best option in a variety of categories, tested and reviewed by our team of experts.

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓
• Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on Hardside Spinner

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

Best soft-sided: samsonite solyte dlx carry-on spinner, best lightweight: july carry on light, best for international travel: delsey paris helium aero international carry-on - expandable spinner, best affordable: amazon basics 20-inch hardside spinner.

• Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner
• Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best for Business Travel: Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner – 20.4 Inch

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

• Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder–22"

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)

Price:  $315 or less

Dimensions: 22.4 x 14.6 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds; 8.85 pounds with closet insert Packing capacity: 4-7 days |  Color options:  Red, purple, navy or 6 others, plus precious metals options Hard- or soft-sided:  Hard-sided   | Warranty: Lifetime

Sturdy and attractive, this suitcase is set apart from the rest by its patented and removable shelving system. This unique design feature makes packing easier, keeps items in place and removes the need for unpacking at your destination. Rather than a zippered clamshell design, the Solgaard Carry-on Closet has two latches that open with just the squeeze of two levers together; it secures with a TSA-approved lock.

The waterproof polycarbonate exterior has an aluminum frame and corner guards so this suitcase can withstand all the rigors of travel. There's also an ergonomic handle and frictionless wheels, which make it easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. What's more, this sustainable suitcase helps to repurpose 6 pounds of plastics that may have ended up in the ocean.

What our editors say:

This carry-on suitcase has it all! From the power bank (sold separately) to the super sturdy and comfortable handle to the removable closet feature – not to mention the attractive yet functional appearance – this suitcase packs a punch. I really like how easy it is to pull on a variety of surfaces, including carpet and brick. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 10 days; 45 liters | Color options: White, red, blue, green or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a truly well-rounded carry-on with a plethora of unique features. USB A & C ports on the outside of the bag give easy access to charging. (A power bank is not included, though the bag does have a pocket for one inside the expansion zipper.) Self-aligning magnetic wheels – a reviewer-favorite feature – allow painless travel through the airport as well as on roads, sidewalks, uneven surfaces and more. A built-in TSA zipper lock offers ultimate protection for your possessions.

Even without the features listed above, this Travelpro spinner is, at its core, a high-quality piece. The hard outer shell is ultra-strong and 100% polycarbonate; aluminum corner guards further protect your belongings. The clamshell-style suitcase has two large interior compartments along with three extra pockets, one of which is water-resistant, and the expansion zipper allows for an extra 2 inches of packing room. Plus, this carry-on is made with genuine leather trim, so you can travel in style as well as comfort.

There are some amazing features on this carry-on, but my favorite is the wheels – as someone who typically prefers hands-free travel (primarily backpacks), I found that the way this suitcase easily glides around everywhere absolutely changed my mind about wheeled luggage. Just know that since this is one of the larger bags on this list, I would still check your airline's carry-on size requirements before traveling (though it's been tested for most major domestic airlines, and it fit perfectly on Delta). – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 39.8 liters | Color options: Black, navy, blue gray or olive, plus 2 glossy options Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited

When it comes to hard-sided carry-on luggage , nothing beats The Carry-On by Away. The bag is lightweight yet indestructible thanks to a 100% polycarbonate exterior. Plus, you can easily wipe away most scratches with a magic eraser.

In late 2023, Away launched a new iteration of The Carry-On that somehow made it even more efficient. The most notable new features are an additional underside grab handle, three extra interior compartments, and an enhanced compression system that upholds the bag's ability to accommodate nearly a week's worth of clothing. The bag's 360-degree wheels are also slimmer than those of its predecessor for improved maneuverability. While Away has long been known for its neutral colored matte options, glossy options of this bag are now available.

The Away Carry-On is my ride or die. I've taken it on so many trips over the past five-plus years and it's still in perfect shape. I know I'll have it with me for many years to come. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content and SEO Strategist

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Black, gray, green, aqua blue or royal blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This classic soft-sided option from Samsonite offers everything you need for a smooth trip. There are three spacious pockets and a trolley strap on the outside so you can stack it on top of another rolling suitcase, as well as a USB port for charging your phone (though you'll have to purchase a battery separately).

Inside the suitcase, three more zippered pockets – including one for wet items – help you stay organized, while buckles keep the main compartment's tie-down straps out of your way while packing. This spinner can conveniently expand by 0.75 inches, but keep in mind if you're flying that overpacking may put it over your carry-on size allowance.

I've used other spinner suitcases in the past, but none of them glide as smoothly as this bag, with its 360-degree dual-spinner wheels. I also love the high-quality, lightweight material, but my favorite part is its organizational features – especially the WetPak pocket. I'd highly recommend the Samsonite SoLyte DLX for anyone who needs a trusty soft-sided carry-on for a flight; it definitely fits more than I thought it would. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $245 or less

Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.17 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 3.9 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Beige, light green, dark green, lilac, charcoal or 3 others Hard- or soft-sided: Hard | Warranty: Lifetime with 100-day returns

Weighing just under 4 pounds, this bag is the lightest hard-sided carry-on we found on the market. It's constructed with an extremely durable German polycarbonate shell, and the interior has two mesh zippered compartments to keep your belongings from shifting. The inner nylon lining is also resistant to water and stains. To make the suitcase easy to maneuver, there's a top carry handle, a telescoping handle and dual-spinner wheels.

I was absolutely shocked by how light this suitcase is. While some lightweight designs can be extremely flimsy, this July carry-on is very durable and holds a good amount of clothing. With compression packing cubes I was able to pack enough clothing for a week. It was extremely easy to put in the plane's overhead compartment, and the wheels rolled very smoothly for my entire journey. The only thing I noticed is that since the bag is so lightweight, the trolley bag I had was making it want to topple. Next time, I'd use a smaller tote or a north-south design to avoid that issue. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 inches | Weight: 8.16 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 41 liters | Color options: Black, blue, red or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This DELSEY PARIS carry-on is a well-built piece of hard-sided luggage. It meets carry-on suitcase size restrictions for most international airlines and offers an easily accessible front compartment – ideal for a laptop up to 15.6 inches or other items you want to be able to grab quickly. The suitcase has a TSA lock and two spacious internal compartments for clothing, shoes and travel gear. The double-spinner wheels glide smoothly across all types of surfaces, and the handle pulls out and retracts with ease.

I was incredibly impressed by this little workhorse of a carry-on bag. There are so many different pockets and compartments within it for organization, and it fits a surprising amount of clothes, shoes and accessories. The handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and the glossy exterior makes it look sleek and chic. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

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Price: $80 or less

Dimensions: 21.46 x 14.76 x 9.45 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 23 liters | Color options: Black, navy blue, orange or light blue Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

The Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner is similar to many other hard-sided luggage products on the market, but it's available at a fraction of the price. The ABS shell is textured, so even if you – or luggage handlers – bang it around a bit, it does not show scuffs or scratches easily. The double-spinner wheels (a must, honestly, in today's luggage landscape) make the bag effortless to maneuver.

Inside, one side of the bag features a compression strap, while the other has a large fabric zippered closure, complete with a few organizer pockets for smaller items. Thanks to its availability on Amazon Prime, the carry-on luggage ships quickly, so it's also a great option if you need new luggage in a crunch.

This carry-on bag is a superb selection for the budget-conscious traveler. I appreciated how much I was able to get into this bag (it doesn't look huge, but it fit quite a lot), and the textured exterior really ups the durability factor. The compression straps and the interior organizer even helped me squeeze in a bit more. – Erin Evans

Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner

Price: $699 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 (up to 11.5) inches | Weight: 10 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 37-48 liters | Color options: Black, navy or olive Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

The Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner has a standout feature that other bags on this list don't: one-touch CX expansion. Exclusive to Briggs & Riley, this technology allows your bag to expand and compress in one swift motion. Simply press and pull up on the red levers found at opposite ends of the bag, and it will grow 2.5 inches. Once you've packed your belongings, push down on the buttons to compress the bag before zipping it up.

This bag also features a garment folder to reduce wrinkles in a suit or dress, as well as cinch-down garment panels to secure the clothing in place. Other convenient features include interior mesh compartments for organization, an exterior pocket for airport essentials (or even your laptop) and a signature PowerPocket where you can charge your smartphone.

While the bag is undoubtedly an investment at $700, its "simple as that" guarantee (free repairs forever, no questions asked) – plus sturdy features like impact-resistant corner guards and self-repairing zippers – means you'll have it for life.

When it comes to quality, this is the best luggage I've ever used – period. The compression/expansion system is just the icing on the cake. – Amanda Norcross

Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Price: $165 or less

Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.1 pounds Packing capacity: 2-4 days; 34 liters | Color options: Chocolate, oatmeal or rose quartz Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 2-year limited

Compact and filled with useful features, this CALPAK underseater has a water-resistant exterior, a TSA-approved lock, and side and top handles for easy lifting into the overhead or pushing under the seat. There's a telescoping handle, a luggage trolley sleeve and two exterior pockets for stowing small items like your passport, boarding pass and earbuds.

On the inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve, multiple interior pockets and compression straps. For added convenience, the main panel can be secured via built-in snaps to get your laptop out while traveling (and keep your other belongings from spilling out), or you can unsnap it while packing to maximize the interior storage space.

When I'm traveling on a quick trip with my laptop, this is my go-to bag. Its compact size glides easily under the seat, and it's also compact and light enough to fit into the overhead bin even on the smallest regional planes. I love the laptop sleeve and the zippered exterior pocket for my book, earbuds and wipes. To maximize the interior space, I use compression cubes from Lug , and I'm able to squeeze in four to five outfits, a pair of shoes and daily necessities. – Rachael Hood

Price: $83 or less

Dimensions: 20.4 x 14.9 x 8.2 inches | Weight: 6.35 pounds Packing capacity: 2-3 days; 26 liters | Color options: Black, olive, gray, red, blue or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

This simple but sturdy carry-on piece from Amazon is a great option for business travelers, thanks to its front pocket for easy laptop access, smooth double-spinner wheels and TSA lock. This Amazon Basics soft-sided carry-on also features a handle on the bottom between the wheels, which makes it easy to put the bag up into and pull it out of the overhead bin. On some airplanes, it may even be small enough to fit under the seat.

The interior of the bag features one large compartment with two compression straps, plus two zippered pockets on the opposite site. The 20.4-inch option is ideal for shorter trips, but this style is available in larger sizes as well. Another bonus: It's available on Amazon Prime, so it ships quickly.

This Amazon Basics option is on the smaller side for a carry-on, but that's what makes it a solid choice for business travelers going on short trips who only need to pack a few things. The laptop pocket is easily accessible, and the handle on the bottom of the bag is super useful for hauling it out of an overhead bin. The black color is professional, and the price can't be beat. – Erin Evans

Price: $565 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 43 liters | Color options: Gray/cognac, gray/chocolate, gray/black or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime with a 100-day trial

Constructed with premium materials, this luxury carry-on has Italian leather accents, Japanese spinner wheels and a polycarbonate exterior with an aluminum metal frame for stability. It closes via two secure latches with combination locks (rather than a zipper). There's a front laptop compartment with a smaller pocket and pen slots to keep business essentials or travel documents easy to access.

The interior has leather details, compression straps and a removable compression pad with a pocket – ideal for small items like ties, fashion jewelry or silk scarves. Travelers can also purchase an additional compression pad to have a pad on each side of the interior compartment.

This suitcase exudes luxury with its Italian leather trim and understated elegance. The design of it looks very sleek, the interior is spacious, the handle is very sturdy and the wheels glide with ease. I especially liked that the top of the suitcase is very flat, which gave my trolley bag a secure base so it wasn't moving around while I was at the airport, and the front compartment was ideal for accessing my laptop on the go. It feels very sturdy, but the only downside is it weighs more than a typical carry-on. – Rachael Hood

Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22"

Price: $270 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 40 liters | Color options: Black Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The North Face's 22-inch Rolling Thunder duffel doesn't have the bells and whistles of other carry-on options, but it's a sturdy and reliable option for those who want a duffel style on wheels. The duffel has a hard-sided back panel, two wheels that can withstand various terrain and plastic bumpers for abrasion resistance. The soft-sided top of the bag is made of water-resistant Base Camp material and nylon for extra durability. There are two zippered pockets on the outside to stash small items and a mesh pocket inside for some added organization.

I brought this duffel on a trip to New Zealand, and it held up very well. The Rolling Thunder had no issues after being checked on six different flights, and the flexibility of the style allowed me to easily store it out of the way in my campervan once I had unpacked. It's definitely a simpler style, but it does its job well. Be aware, though, that this wheeled style doesn't have straps that would allow you to carry it like a duffel; it can only be rolled. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $200 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-10 days; 35 liters | Color options: Multiple options but color availability changes frequently Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

When it comes to hands-free and adventure travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can't be beat. This lightweight carry-on backpack comes with a sternum strap, a removable waist belt and a weight-distributing harness system, all to make for a comfortable carry (since sore shoulders can be a concern when it comes to carrying backpacks through time-consuming airport experiences).

Organization is a breeze with a top zippered pocket – perfect for storing travel documents or a Cotopaxi hip pack – and a padded laptop sleeve on the outside. Internally, you'll find two mesh compartments, one large and one subdivided, that work great with Cotopaxi packing cubes . The backpack's straps can be tucked away for more streamlined travel, and the bag even comes with a rain cover (though the Allpa is already TPU-coated to be water-resistant).

Furthermore, Cotopaxi is dedicated to sustainability : 94% of Cotopaxi products contain repurposed, recycled or responsible materials. The vibrant, one-of-a-kind Del Dia Allpa backpacks , for example, use remnant fabric.

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures and it's survived everything – wind, rain, being shoved into tiny rental cars, you name it. Besides being incredibly durable, I love how much this backpack can fit; my longest trip so far with only the Allpa 35L as my luggage has been a comfortable nine days, and that included packing bulky cold-weather gear. I just wish it had a water bottle pocket like the Allpa 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson

Also Recommended

Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner: While the Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner is a solid (and sustainable) carry-on bag for less than $200, it doesn't offer quite enough space – especially for someone who may be traveling for longer.

Away The Aluminum Carry-On Bag: This is a well-built carry-on bag. The only downfall is that it's on the heavier side, weighing nearly 11 pounds. Away's Aluminum Carry-On is also more than twice the cost of the standard carry-on by Away, which works just as well.

Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: This is a great soft-sided option if you're looking for a lightweight suitcase. Featuring a sleek nylon construction, a large front exterior pocket and internal zippered pockets, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner works well but isn't as lightweight as the July Carry-on Light.

Monos Carry-on Plus: It's a high-quality suitcase with a lot of internal details, but given its larger size this bag doesn't fit in the overhead compartment on multiple planes (especially regional jets). That said, if you're traveling domestically on larger planes, the Monos Carry-on Plus could be an option to consider. Or, the smaller standard Monos Carry-on could be a good option as well.

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

Pros and cons of soft-sided luggage, frequently asked questions.

Aside from traditional rolling suitcases, the following items can be used as carry-on luggage provided they meet carry-on size limitations (which vary by airline) and fit in the overhead bin or fully under the seat (not sticking out) in front of you.

• Duffel and weekender bags:  This includes weekenders and duffel bags with wheels . Just note that wheels are included in carry-on dimension restrictions.
• Garment bags:  These are also considered carry-on baggage by most airlines. You can place your garment bag in the overhead bin, or in some cases, a small closet on the plane.
• Pet carriers:  Some airlines consider pet carriers to be carry-on luggage. Check with your chosen airline when preparing for your trip with Fido.
• Backpacks:  If your carry-on backpack fits under the seat, it will count toward your personal item allowance on most major airlines. This means you'll have the option to bring an additional bag for the overhead bin.
• Diaper bags: If you're traveling with a baby, diaper bags and other baby travel gear generally don't count toward either allowance – meaning you can bring these items in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item.

Purses , briefcases and camera bags can be carried on the plane as well, but usually aren't considered carry-on bags and are instead labeled personal items. Underseater bags – often designed specifically to fit comfortably under a plane seat – are also ideal as a personal item.

Typically, travelers can bring one carry-on bag (for the overhead bin) and one personal item (for under the seat) on the plane, free of charge.

Carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline. Several major U.S. carriers, such as American Airlines and United, impose a 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule. If you're buying new carry-on luggage, this is a good default size to choose – especially if you fly with a variety of airlines.

For international airlines, it's often 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. To be sure about dimensions as well as any weight restrictions, see our guide to Carry-on Luggage Size & Weight by Airline . It usually doesn't matter how heavy your carry-on bag is, though some airlines do monitor the weight.

• Hard-sided: The hard-sided July Carry On Light weighs less than 4 pounds, making it one of the most lightweight carry-on bags on the market. Other lightweight carry-on bags we recommend include the hard-sided Away The Carry-On (7.5 pounds) and the Amazon 20-Inch Hardside Spinner (7.3 pounds).
• Soft-sided: If you're looking for a lightweight, soft-sided carry-on bag, consider the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner (4.8 pounds) and the Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner (7.1 pounds).

Hard-sided luggage is often heavier than soft-sided luggage – but only by a few pounds. If you're planning to purchase a hard-sided carry-on bag, look for something that's made of polycarbonate or polypropylene, both of which are lightweight yet durable materials.

How We Tested

Our team tested 26 carry-on bags across several price points and on a variety of trips spanning overseas flights, weekend getaways, overnight trips and more. We traveled by car, plane, train and cruise and packed for a variety of climates and activities, from shore excursions in Mexico to rainy road trips around Iceland. For bags with wheels, we tested their maneuverability on multiple surfaces, including gravel, pavement, grass, moving walkways, cobblestone and carpet. After four months of testing, we deem these carry-on bags the best of the best for 2024.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

The following editors personally tested the luggage recommended in this article:

Erin Evans , Managing Editor: Evans loves a durable bag and also can't say no to a good deal. Considering how banged up luggage can get, her picks on this list are both well-made and affordable.

Rachael Hood , Senior Editor: Hood rarely checks a bag, yet she loves to pack a lot and pick up some new finds along her journey. She looks for a combination of durability, functionality, interior space and overall appearance.

Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor: Kendall opts for convenient and versatile carry-ons that can work well for weekend and weekslong trips alike.

Amanda Norcross , Content & SEO Strategist: Norcross has mastered the art of traveling with a carry-on bag only, but believes this is only possible with the right luggage.

Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer: Osmundson prefers lightweight, streamlined luggage that's ideal for adventure travel.

You might also be interested in:

• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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RS Recommends: These Convertible Backpacks Make it Easier to Haul Your Gear

By Joshua Kanter

Joshua Kanter

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

If you’re deciding between a backpack, a messenger bag, and a tote, don’t. Instead, consider a convertible backpack: The nifty bags feature both handles and shoulder straps, letting you transport gear however you want. This comes in very handy if, say, it’s too hot to have a backpack against your body, or if you’re walking too far for a tote bag to be comfortable.

Whether you’re a commuter, a traveler, a student, or all of the above, read on for some of the best convertible backpacks to buy right now.

Convertible Backpack Buying Guide

As the name suggests, the best convertible backpacks convert from a strap-on backpack or knapsack, into a carry-all tote, duffel bag, and messenger bag. Here’s what to consider when shopping for the best convertible backpacks for you.

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Straps: The option of different straps isn’t only a cool and convenient design — it can also save your shoulders on long treks. A detachable long shoulder strap lets you carry the weight across your body, but having some double backpack straps tucked away helps when the weight is starting to feel uneven. Handles to carry it horizontally or as a tote can also be ease off your shoulders as well.

Material: This is where some backpack manufacturers go above and beyond, endlessly testing and selecting materials that’ll last a lifetime — not just against the elements, but for the general beating a bag can take. Thickly-padded walls add an extra layer of cushioning to important devices inside, and can stand up to being thrown around in transit too.

Weather: Water-resistant materials should be the minimum here too, especially if you’re taking your convertible bag outdoors. Since a backpack is meant for leaving the indoors and getting outside, a good convertible backpack should be ready for whatever nature throws at it, and not need to be sheltered from the storm.

Weight: This convertible backpack is going to be carrying your most important things, and the weight can add up fast. Smart and minimal packing can only take you so far though, if the bag itself is a deadweight. Ideally, the best convertible backpacks shouldn’t weigh more than a few pounds. Anything beyond that and you’ll start to feel it on long hauls or even short treks.

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Convertibility:  There’s a wide selection of bags out there that can flip and fold into different carrying options, but a slimmer pool of those that do it efficiently. From there, taking into consideration what you’ll be using it for will let you narrow it down even further. If you’ll be mostly using the bag for hiking and camping, durable protection from rain and dirt may take the top spot for your needs. A bag for the city and urban-based life should be roomy and have some anti-theft features, and a primarily professionally-used bag needs to look presentable while keeping your laptop and work safe inside.

What are the Best Convertible Backpacks?

We’ve reviewed some of the best convertible backpacks that you can buy online, based on performance features, versatility, and durability.

1. Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack

Troubadour’s Bivy bag transforms from backpack to tote in one quick flip, holding a little over 20 liters and weighing just 2.2 pounds.

Aesthetically, the look is smooth and clean, and fits in whether you’re wearing a business suit or swimsuit. The outside is crafted with textured waterproof nylon, and tightly sealing top zippers and lining keep your contents dry, even in a sudden downpour. Much like a freshly-waxed car, water will simply bead up when it hits the surface instead of being absorbed into it, and it can even be re-treated if the water starts to soak in after years of hard usage.

Two retractable bottle holders leave room for your water bottle and travel mug, and pockets are plentiful here, as are organized compartments including a discreet one for passports and cash. We’ve personally tested this bag and wearing the pack in the real world is cushy and comfy thanks to the narrower-than-most padded shoulder straps and ergonomic structure. When you’re ready to ditch the straps, they split into two pieces and completely tuck away, including the buckles and the pull tabs (and allow for easy access when you want them out again).

The tote handles up top are padded for an easy grip, with room enough to carry on your shoulder and support the bag’s bottom with your hand. Possibly the most impressive aspect though is that such a high-quality bag is so low-impact on the environment. Troubadour’s tough fabrics are made from recycled plastics, while the leather is “vegetable-tanned”, using hides that are a natural farming byproduct. Even the packaging is waste-sensitive too, avoiding plastics altogether.

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Buy Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack $225

2. Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack

If you need more space for longer trips, check out this F.A.R. convertible duffel backpack from Away. With 45 liters of space, it’s big enough for a three to five-day trip (or more if you pack light) and fits in an overhead carry-on compartment. For carrying options, you have both shoulder straps and drop handles. The shoulder straps can be removed for a more streamlined carry, or they can be supported by a chest strap when your bag gets heavy. There’s also a trolly sleeve, making the bag a nice supplement to any roller suitcases.

Inside the F.A.R. bag is a large main compartment with compression straps to maximize space. There are also interior zipper pockets for keeping valuables safe and organized, as well as exterior pockets for quick access.

Buy Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack $220

3. Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Laptop Bag

Thule is known for its incredibly tough and rigid products (think everything from bikes and roof racks to bags and baby strollers) and the same durable construction applies to this bag.

This convertible laptop bag features a sleek and functional style for both business and travel (and business travel).  Backpack straps tuck away to reveal a comfortably padded shoulder strap, and the main pouches are large enough to hold a 15-inch laptop, a tablet, and documents, while surrounding them with protective padding. A luggage pass-through panel on the back lets you slide your suitcase’s extendable handle through it, to make running for your flight a little easier.

Even smaller items are protected with the zippered and crush-proof SafeZone compartments, and a front panel has a space for all your frequently-accessed important items, including slip pockets and a cable-management system to keep things neat during the hectic pace of a busy day.

For such a heavy-duty bag, the Thule Crossover remains surprisingly lightweight and easy to carry, whether as a tote,  messenger or backpack.

Buy Thule Crossover Convertible Backpack $275.00

4. Carhartt Legacy Hybrid

At 1.5 pounds, Carhartt designed this lightweight hybrid bag specifically for people on the go, though it’s tough enough for anyone to bring along.

The heavy-duty 100% polyester material easily repels water before it has the chance to absorb in, and can be carried four different ways: as a regular double-strapped backpack, as a shoulder tote, as a cross-body bag or as a regular tote using the top handle.

Inside, there’s enough space for a 15-inch laptop in the padded sleeve, along with things like books, supplies or even a DSLR, while two outside pockets are made for bottles and small essentials like a phone and keys.

Buy Carhartt Convertible Tote Bag $76.95

5. CoolBELL Convertible Backpack

CoolBell’s design and color contrast immediately caught our eye, but the practicality of three bags in one make it useful and functional across the board.

This thrives over different transformations, like a three day course of commuting to work and then camping for the weekend. It’s spacious enough inside to hold up to a 17.3-inch laptop (with an egg-crate style padded wall for impact protection), along with a few days of clothes, a water bottle, and a bunch of smaller items.

At 2.65 pounds, it can be stuffed to the max, and don’t worry if you get caught in a downpour either, as water will bead up and roll right off.  The real leather handles and zipper pulls, along with the straps, can be tucked inside, and this also conveniently can hook on to your luggage’s extendable carry handle too.

Buy CoolBELL Convertible Backpack $49.99

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The 14 Best Carry-on Travel Garment Bags in 2024 [Suits, Dresses, Shirts & More]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

773 Published Articles

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3114 Edited Articles

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The Benefits of Using a Travel Garment Bag

Things to consider with travel garment bags, packing tips for traveling with a garment bag, 1. the convertible hanging suitcase, 2. a thoughtfully-designed garment bag, 3. take your tech with this excellent value overnight bag, 4. style and sophistication for the business traveler, 5. a bargain garment carrier with lots of savvy extras, 6. a firm favorite for simply carrying your clothing, 7. great duffel and garment bag combo on a budget, 1. wheeled bag for formal events and functions, 2. rolling garment bag for the business traveler, 3. reliable rolling garment bag from the experts at travelpro, 4. a brilliant bag from a big name in the luggage game, 5. lightweight and sturdy g arment bag on 2 wheels, 6. clever travel storage solution for your clothing, 7. tough garment bag designed for frequent flyers, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Garment bags are designed to keep your clothing crease-free and perfectly organized every time you travel.

Whether you’re going away on business, traveling somewhere fancy, or like to always go out in style, invest in one of these useful bags to keep your clothes fresh and wrinkle-free every time.

If you want your clothing to be ship-shape and ready to wear when you reach your destination, the very best way is to invest in a dedicated garment carrier.

A perfect garment bag will bridge the gap between a suitcase and a suit protector by offering useful pockets, compartments, and storage spaces that are designed to hold every bit of clothing safely and securely while you’re in transit.

Garment bags offer many benefits over and above a regular duffel bag or suitcase. With a garment bag, you can:

• Hang your garments upright. Keep your clothes crease-free by hanging them in the car, on the bus, on the train, and in the hotel when you get there. The only place you can’t hang them up is on the plane. But, there’s a solution for that, too — merely lie them flat to keep your clothes wrinkle-free and ready to go.
• Choose from a variety of transport options. You can have a rolling garment bag, a shoulder garment bag, or a garment duffel bag, depending on your needs and carrying preference when in transit. There are lots of different garment bags to choose from. There’s no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to carrying your clothing, as every traveler will have different-sized clothing to accommodate.
• Fit in the overhead . Most garment bags are designed to be used as carry-on luggage and will meet airline regulations when rolled or folded. No checked luggage means faster boarding and no luggage carousels.

Before you rush out a buy a garment bag to keep your gear safe in transit, consider the following:

Size and Capacity

Deciding whether you want to check your garment bag or not will dictate the size of the bag that works best for you. For carry-on bags , the maximum measurements will usually be around 22 x 14 x 9 inches — so be sure to consider that before you buy.

When it comes to capacity, some bags will offer lots of room for added extras like shoes, wash bags, and casual clothing, while others will be designed to keep your suit crease-free and ready for the boardroom.

You may also want to consider the length of the carrier. If you’re packing a ball gown, wedding dress, or another type of fancy outfit, you’ll want to look for one that can fit full-length items without squishing them.

Compartments and Organization

While your clothes will be kept neatly arranged and hanging nicely, you should also consider what extra storage spaces you’ll need to carry all your belongings.

From basic suit covers, right through to collapsible wardrobe bags, there will be the right type of interior organization for you.

Dedicated spaces for shoes, ties, and underwear, for example, are useful for business travelers, while zippered compartments for smaller items, wet compartments for toiletries, and even external compartments that take the place of your handbag can be useful depending on your individual needs and preferences.

Material and Durability

As with any luggage, you want a garment bag that will be lightweight enough to carry with you, yet strong enough to not rip or tear at the first sign of travel fatigue. These bags are also designed to fold, so the fabric will need to be flexible, yet strong enough to keep your clothing secure.

Most garment bags are made from the same type of tough nylon or synthetic material that laptop bags and travel duffels are made from, which may even offer some protection against wet weather. Be sure you know exactly what your garment bag can and can’t do before you buy it.

Wheels vs. No Wheels

Wheeled garment bags are easy to pull behind you through the never-ending maze of an airport concourse and are perfect for urban adventures and public transport. They’re not, however, quite so effective on rough terrain, unpaved roads, beaches, or open countryside.

Garment bags without wheels will need to be carried with a hand or shoulder strap, which can be tiresome over long distances. They are, however, usually a little lighter and easier to place in the overhead cabin.

Wheels or no wheels? It’s really up to you as there are pros and cons to both.

Simply put, there are 3 main types of garment bags to choose from. They include:

• Bi-Fold Bags — This type of garment bag folds in the middle for compact carrying. When they fold up, the bottom will zip, tie, or attach to the top so it can be carried or hung as 1 piece. These types of garment carriers are the most commonly available and come in a variety of designs and materials to suit all budgets.
• Tri-Fold Bags — Tri-fold bags are incredibly lightweight and so compact that they can be attached to the pullout handle of your suitcase. Typically small, this type of garment bag only holds enough to last you for a day or so, but they can be folded for transit and immediately hung up when you reach your destination.
• Rolling Garment Bags — The clue is in the name with these types of bags, as not only do they fold, they also roll! With wheels and a handle, these bags are bigger and heavier than their bi- or tri-fold counterparts but can carry more for longer trips.

Handles and Zippers

Whether you need a long handle to pull your bag behind you, oversized straps for carrying over your shoulder, or a grab handle for quick pick-ups; quality is key.

Sturdy metal handles, leather, or nylon straps, and durable designs are all vital to ensuring your handle stays intact as long as the bag is in use.

The same rules apply to zippers. You need high-quality zippers (and locks) that will keep your garments secure. Small zippers can break easily, so choose a garment bag with big, durable zippers and zipper pulls to keep your belongings safely tucked away.

Your garment bag has been designed to keep your clothing crease-free and perfectly organized in transit. If you aren’t going to pack it correctly, you may as well throw all your gear in a backpack and be done with it.

Follow these top tips for perfect packing, every time:

Pack It Flat

Lay your garment bag out on a flat surface before you start to fill it. You could use your bed, your floor, or even your kitchen table — where you pack it isn’t important, but how you pack it is.

Work in Reverse

To ensure that your clothing is ready to wear the minute you reach your destination, pack it in the opposite order of how you would dress. For example, if you put your jacket on last, it should be the very first thing you pack. On top of your jacket, you’d pack your shirt, your pants, and so on.

Pack Facing the Back

Creases can happen, and to avoid them wrecking the look of your outfit, pack your clothing facing the back so that any creases only occur on the back of your clothing.

Follow the 1 to 6 Rule

This little rule is useful, and one used by professional packers all over the world. Pack the essentials in the following quantity: 1 hat, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 pairs of pants, 4 shirts, 5 pairs of socks, and 6 pairs of underwear. Scale this up or down to suit the length of your trip.

Tie it Down

If your garment bag has compression straps, use them to keep your clothing in place and laying flat while you travel. Don’t tighten these too much as this might create the creases you’re trying to avoid.

Pack Your Pockets Last

Those handy little pockets that are designed to hold ties, shoes, toiletries, and other accessories should be packed last after you have folded or rolled your garments.

The 7 Best Non-wheeled Carry-on Travel Garment Bags

Modoker Carry-On Garment Bag

Weight: 2.5 pounds

Dimensions: 22.8 x 11 x 11.8 inches

This 2-in-1 garment carrier and duffel bag is an excellent option for a weekend away where you need to look your very best. With the ability to fold and be carried like a regular shoulder bag, as well as hang upright to keep your clothes crease-free, it offers a lot of bag for your money.

With a 45-liter capacity, there’s plenty of room on the inside for all of your clothing . The left side pocket is big enough to house your shoes separately from your more delicate items, while the right side pocket is perfect for your keys, wallet , and other small items.

Just the right size to use as a carry-on, you won’t need to worry about taking extra luggage with you. The smaller pocket can be used to keep your passport and boarding pass close at hand, and when folded, the bag will fit in the overhead locker or underneath your seat.

Made from high-quality polyester and jacquard, this bag is scratch-resistant and robust enough to withstand splashes of water and light rain.

With a detachable shoulder strap, this bag is easy to carry from 1 destination to another, and just as easy to hang when you get there.

What We Like

• Separate shoe compartment to keep them away from clean clothes

What We Don’t Like

• Carrying handle is not the most comfortable

Briggs & Riley, Black, 22-Inch Garment Duffel Bag

Weight: 4.09 pounds

Dimensions: 9 x 22 x 12.5 inches

With a thoughtful design, this premium garment bag from Briggs & Riley converts into a duffel and has so much to offer for the seasoned traveler. Packed full of useful compartments and made from high-quality materials, this bag was designed to deliver comfort, practicality, and style.

Made from durable ballistic nylon that’s protected from water, dirt, and tears , this bag will fare well for many international adventures. Just the right size to fit in the overhead bin on an airplane, its compact features hide its spacious interiors.

The interior has a suiter to hang 1-2 suits and the webbing straps will ensure the hangers stay in place. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to handy pockets and mesh compartments to store smaller items and the light-colored lining makes it easier to locate items. It even has a moisture-resistant shoe pocket. A hideaway ID tag and speed-access pocket with orange lining makes it easy to tell that the pocket is open.

The  Briggs & Riley Garment Bag is a high-quality, well-designed, and professional-looking garment carrier to suit both business and leisure travelers alike.

• Has a large, moisture-resistance pocket for shoes or dirty clothes
• Heavy for a garment bag

ZEGUR Suit Carry-On Garment Bag

Weight: 2.86 pounds

Dimensions: 23 x 4 x 22 inches

Keep your clothing clean and wrinkle-free with this garment bag that’s perfect for keeping your suits looking fresh. Made from rugged, fray-resistant 1800D polyester, with a waterproof exterior and sturdy metal zippers and clasps, this is an excellent-looking garment bag that’s built to last.

On the inside, there’s a dual buckle that holds your garments in place, ensuring that they won’t get creased or wrinkled during travel. It also offers 4 inside pockets that are perfect for keeping your socks and shoes in 1 place while you travel, while the mesh pocket is just right for ties and scarves.

Designed with practicality in mind, 3 of the internal pockets zip completely shut to keep your belongings safe, while the fourth has a Velcro closure that offers plenty of space for larger items like shoes .

The main compartment has an all-important 3-loop holder at the top to keep your hangers in order, and 3 straps to secure your clothes and help reduce wrinkles when the bag is folded in half.

If you’re taking your tech with you, this bag features a large outside pocket that will hold your tech, wallet, and travel documents.

Complete with a long shoulder strap, an identification tag, and a metal chain and hook for hanging, this is a great-value garment bag that works well for overnight trips and very short stays.

• External pocket for travel documents, wallet, and devices
• Shoulder strap is a little thin, so not comfortable to carry for long

AmeriLeather Three-Suit Garment Bag in Leather

Weight: 4.6 pounds

Dimensions: 5 x 23 x 39 inches

Made from top-grain, genuine leather, this swanky-looking garment bag won’t look out of place in the first class lounge at an airport. With heavy-duty, copper-colored zippers and hardware, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a sturdy carry handle on top, it’s a bag that’s made to last.

Large enough to carry up to 3 business suits or similar size ensembles , this garment bag includes 2 garment hangers and a hook that can be used over the door of your hotel or tucked away in your wardrobe.

The book-opening design makes it easy for you to access your belongings, either when they’re laying flat or hanging in the wardrobe. This little beauty even folds up small enough to fit in the overhead bin, which means no need to check baggage on your next journey.

The large zippered pocket on the outside is perfect for holding your passport, tickets, cell phone, wallet, and other small essentials, while the 2-side zip-up pockets extend into the main compartment to provide convenient and separated storage space for shoes.

Sophisticated, stylish, and incredibly spacious both inside and out, this bag may have a hefty price tag, but the look, feel, and practical design make it worth every cent.

• Stylish and functional
• Internal hanger clip can sometimes open in transit

AmazonBasics Premium Garment Bag

Weight: 2.2 pounds

Dimensions: 40 x 20.5 x 4 inches

This simple and affordable garment bag from the AmazonBasics series is a great little number for those not wanting to spend a lot to keep their clothing crease-free . With enough space to hold up to the 3 suits (or similar outfits), this is great for weekend breaks or formal occasions.

Made of high-quality, weather-resistant polyester, the internal space includes multiple zipper pockets, that provide extra space for belts, shoes, ties, and other accessories. Made out of mesh, the pockets allow air to flow freely, keeping the fabric fresher longer.

Zipper closings will keep your stuff safe, while the 2 tie-down straps with buckle-style closures will stop your clothing from moving around and creasing while in transit.

The large organizer pockets in the front are good for stashing everyday items like pens, cell phones, chargers, and earbuds, as well as your passport, wallet, and other small items you need to keep close at hand.

A must-have for frequent travelers, this travel garment bag offers practical dimensions combined with plenty of travel-savvy packing spaces — all for a very affordable price.

• Carrying handle and detachable shoulder strap
• Zippers can break easily

WallyBags Luggage 40″ Garment Bag

Weight: 2 pounds

Dimensions: 3 x 40 x 22 inches

WallyBags are a hugely popular way to carry your clothing around with you. Made from durable, polyester fabric that’s water-repellent, these offer an easy-to-use, affordable way to keep your clothing wrinkle-free.

With a full-length center zipper that allows for easy access, you can use your own hangers in conjunction with the patented WallyLock hanger clamp to keep your clothing and hangers secure.

Take up to 6 garments with you at 1 time , and simply hang them straight up when you reach your destination.

The garment bag folds in half, and the handles fasten together to make it easier to carry with you, while the same handles can also wrap around your suitcase for easier transport in and around the airport.

When folded, this perfectly meets the airline regulation carry-on size , meaning you can stow and go.

• Holds up to 6 hangers
• Doesn’t come with a shoulder strap

Hot Tip: Know that your bag will fit before you show up at the airport — check our carry-on luggage size chart for major airlines to learn more about approved dimensions and sizes.

Large Travel Duffel Garment Bag

Weight: 3.5 pounds

Dimensions: 23.6 x 12 x 12 inches

By combing the convenience of a flat garment bag with the traditional storage capacity of a duffel bag, you can enjoy the best of both worlds when it comes to packing for your next trip. Made from highly durable and waterproof material, this bag has an on-trend look, that sets it apart from many of the regular nylon-effect bags and cases that most travelers opt for.

Multiple compartments make it easy for you to store everything you need. The main storage area can easily fit suits or similar ensembles, while the interior zipper pockets are perfect for ties, belts, socks, and underwear.

The 2 exterior front pockets are easy to access on the move, making them the smart storage space for your cell phone, passport, tickets, and wallet. This bag even offers a separate shoe pocket that can be used to keep your shoes separate from your clothes.

To comfortably carry your duffel and garment bag combo, it comes complete with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap that will allow you to take it anywhere and a slip pocket at the back to attach it to a wheeled suitcase.

With enough space to fit everything you need for a long weekend or short business trip, this is a great bag that offers flexible storage options.

• Has a separate shoe pocket
• Zippers can get stuck easily

The 7 Best Wheeled Travel Garment Bags

London Fog Buckingham 44″ Wheeled Garment Bag

Weight: 10.88 pounds

Dimensions: 23 x 4 x 44 inches

Perfect for business travel, short breaks, and formal events, this wheeled garment bag allows you to pull your possessions behind you, anywhere you go.

Spacious, well-designed, and able to keep several outfits and accessories organized and together, this bag is larger than most garment carriers, meaning it will most likely need to be checked in .

This bag has some elegant features that you won’t find in cheaper alternatives. Take, for example, the book-opening design. The spacious main compartment has multiple sections for hanging garments, undergarments, folded items, shoes, toiletries, and anything else you need with you.

It also benefits from dual hooks for super-easy hanging, while metal brackets ensure that your clothes stay neat and wrinkle-free. You can open the bag while it’s hanging in the closet, and the fold-down extension means you can carry longer items like ball gowns and wedding dresses with ease .

These additional features make this an excellent choice for anyone attending a function or formal occasion where it’s important that just a couple of outfits arrive in perfect condition.

• Opens like a suitcase
• Won’t be accepted as a carry-on with some airlines

Travel Select Amsterdam Rolling Garment Bag Wheeled Luggage Case

Weight: 11.25 pounds

Dimensions: 7.5 x 44 x 23 inches

A good-looking and super practical rolling garment bag that won’t cost you a month’s rent. Take your favorite outfits with you in this executive-style bag that offers enough space to fit all of your essentials.

Made from 1200D 2-tone polyester construction with an EVA reinforced front panel, and industrial quality hardware, this is a durable and sturdy wheeled garment bag that can handle the bumps and bruises of international travel.

The internal handle system and in-line skate wheel make for easy maneuverability , while the adjustable and detachable shoulder strap is there to take the slack when the wheels aren’t able to roll.

Inside, the spacious main compartment has zippered mesh pockets and a number of gusseted outside pockets that are big enough to hold your passport , cell phone, keys, wallet, toiletries, and anything else you need on your trip . The convenient tie straps secure items while the fold-out design helps to reduce creases and wrinkles.

When you reach your destination, hang your bag to keep your clothing looking fresh and ready to wear.

• Roll as a suitcase or carry with the shoulder strap
• Clothing hangs upside down

Travelpro Platinum Elite Check In Rolling Garment Bag

Weight: 13.4 pounds

Dimensions: 22 x 24 x 10.50 inches

This wheeled garment bag is perfect for longer breaks or business trips and is designed to be strong enough to cope with regular domestic and international travel. Made using high-quality ballistic nylon with a DuraGuard coating, the Travelpro garment bag promises to resist scratches and stains while in transit.

Roll smoothly around the airport, hotel, or city center with the ball-bearing, in-line wheels that can handle a wide variety of terrains, while the PowerScope extension handle will minimize wobbles and is sturdy enough to stay rigid and secure .

This check-in bag meets most airline regulations for checked luggage and has a TSA combination lock to keep your belongings secure while out of your possession.

When it comes to packing, the internal space is well-proportioned with 2 roomy compartments, a padded roll bar, and tie straps to keep your clothes wrinkle-free. The small interior pockets can hold folded clothing and undergarments, and the waterproof pocket is perfect for your toiletries.

On the exterior, this bag has a quick-access front pocket and a padded laptop compartment, should you want to carry your essentials in here before checking in. This is a quality rolling garment bag from the trusted luggage manufacturers at Travelpro.

• Smooth-rolling wheels and a sturdy handle
• In-line skate wheel won’t suit everyone

Samsonite Luggage Ascella 3.0 Check In Wheeled Garment Bag

Weight: 10.58 pounds

Dimensions: 24 × 20.5 × 9.5 inches

Made by one of the biggest and best-known luggage brands in the world, the  Ascella 3.0  Check In Wheeled Garment Bag from Samsonite is a very good one. With extensive packing space and incredibly smooth-rolling wheels, this garment bag does everything you need it to, effortlessly.

Made from polyester material, it’s tough inside and out, and resistant to most of the rips and scuffs associated with traveling. You can use the soft touch telescopic handle to roll your belongings behind you or lift the bag in and out of the overhead compartment using the top carrying handle.

The main compartment is large enough to carry your clothing and keep it crease-free, and the expander panel allows you to pack longer items such as suits or dresses. Multiple zipper pockets are available to stop smaller items from rolling around and the wet pocket will ensure that any spills are contained.

On the exterior, there are 2 zippered pockets to hold smaller items or your travel essentials up until you check your bag and the smooth gliding zippers have an ergonomic feel to them.

• Has a wet pocket for your toiletries
• No integrated TSA lock

Travelpro Luggage Maxlite 5 22″ Lightweight Carry-On Rolling Garment Bag

Weight: 8.3 pounds

Dimensions: 8.5 x 22 x 16 inches

This lightweight, rolling carry-on garment bag offers a handy lay-flat design that makes it incredibly easy to pack, while still keeping your clothing crease-free and fresh as a daisy. Made from polyester fabric with a stain-resistant, water-repellent DuraGuard coating, this garment carrier will keep the worst of the weather at bay.

Smooth, high-performance in-line skate wheels will allow you to transport your garment bag around the airport with ease, and the lightweight yet sturdy PowerScope Lite handle is height adjustable and will reduce wobble and tired hands .

Inside the bag, the padded straps are designed to carefully hold your clothing in place, while the built-in pockets keep your smaller items like ties, socks, and shoes organized and easily accessible.

It’s the lightweight construction of this bag that really sells it, though. Even when full, you’d struggle to make it feel at all heavy.

With ergonomic, high-tensile-strength zipper pulls and crash-proof corner protection, it’s also loaded with lovely little extras that you’d only expect to find on big-brand luggage.

• Smooth telescopic handle with 2 adjustable heights
• Suits and shirts for tall people would need folding at the bottom

Delsey Luggage Helium DLX Softside Spinner Garment Bag

Weight: 11.11 pounds

Dimensions: 23.75 x 23 x 10.5 inches

This classy-looking garment bag from Delsey is a sophisticated piece that’s worthy of its price tag. With lots of useful compartments to carry all of your belongings, this is an impressive bag that can carry everything you need for a few days away.

This bag is incredibly strong and durable, yet still manages to feel fairly lightweight . Easy to maneuver, the bag has dual-density, silent-core double-spinner wheels that glide along airport floors and busy sidewalks.

There’s a robust and adjustable handle for pulling your bag along with you that also has a non-slip grip. The bag opens like a book and has a clamping system that assures you that your garments won’t move in transit. There are also 2 shoe pockets and an additional 2 corner pockets for smaller items.

For easy access to items you might need in a hurry, there’s a separate front pocket that can carry your wallet, passport, cell phone, and other essentials. This is a great bag that offers smart storage solutions for your clothing.

• Spinner wheels are easy to maneuver
• No bottom handle for easier lifting

Samsonite Ascella 3.0 2-Wheel Garment Bag

Weight: 9.9 pounds

Dimensions: 20.5 x 24 x 9.5 inches

Samsonite’s reputation for toughness and high-performance materials goes toward protecting your hanging garments in this 2-wheeled, polyester garment bag. It has several pockets and organizers to keep everything in its place, including hanger bracket grips that allow 2 directions of hanging for double the capacity; 3 mesh organizational pockets, 2 mesh shoe pockets, and compression straps. An extender panel lets you carry around longer items.

The 2 spinner wheels are oversized and make for a smooth ride, while the soft-grip handle has several built-in stop points to suit a range of owner heights. A WetPak pocket keeps liquids contained and away from your precious suits and fancy dresses.

• Has a special pocket to keep liquids safely away from garments
• Heavy at around 10 pounds

Travel garments bags provide a simple solution to a big problem for frequent flyers. Investing in 1 of these can make a big difference to the impression you make at that big meeting or wedding.

Whether you invest in an executive-style rolling garment bag or a smart garment duffel with carry-on solutions, you’re making a smart decision.

Enjoyed this article and looking for other types of travel bags as well? Check out some of our other reviews:

• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market
• The Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do you put a garment bag on a plane.

Garments bags will usually roll or fold and easily fit in the overhead compartments on a plane. Check with your airline what the carry-on luggage size requirements are to make sure your garment bag dimensions will be accepted.

Do garment bags prevent wrinkles?

No garment bag can ever guarantee that your clothes will be completely wrinkle-free. However, they will do a better job of preventing wrinkles than regular carry-on luggage will due to their dimensions and the way they fold.

What is the best carry-on garment bag?

Our favorite is the Modoker Carry-On Garment Bag. This 2-in-1 garment carrier and duffel bag is an excellent option for a weekend away where you need to look your very best. With the ability to fold and be carried like a regular shoulder bag, as well as hang upright to keep your clothes crease-free, it offers a lot of bag for your money.

Are garment bags allowed as carry-ons?

Most airlines allow passengers to bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item onboard, but all have different size restrictions. Check with your airline to ensure your garment bag adheres to these requirements before travel.

What is there to consider with travel garment bags?

• Size and capacity
• Compartments and organization
• Material and durability
• Wheels versus no wheels
• Handles and zippers

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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How do you unlock a TSA lock if you forgot the combination?

December 12, 2022 // By Lois Alter Mark

By Lois Alter Mark Travel Expert December 12, 2022

Using a TSA lock on your suitcase is a great way to keep your belongings safe while making it easy for TSA officers to do their job. But, because the lock requires a combination, it gives you something else to remember in addition to all those passwords floating around in your head. And that means there’s a chance you’re eventually going to forget it.

Don’t worry. We’ll show you how to open a TSA lock when you forget the combination, so you can get on with your travels even when the code escapes you.

What is a TSA lock, anyway?

A TSA lock is one to which only TSA officials have a key. You set the combination yourself and, if a TSA agent has to look inside your bag because they see something suspicious on the scanner, it can be easily opened with their master key. If you use a lock that’s not TSA-approved, the agent’s only way to get in is to cut the lock or the bag itself, possibly damaging it.

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Many suitcases already come with built-in TSA locks but, if they don’t, you can buy one separately.

How to open your TSA lock and reset the combination

If you forget your TSA lock combination, there are a few methods you’ll want to try to open it. And, yes, you do have to open it before you can reset the combination. Because there’s no standard solution for this, you’ll have to experiment to see which one works for you.

Since different locks require different processes, the most effective first step may be to call the luggage or lock company itself (or check their website) for brand-specific instructions.

Travel Sentry, whose red diamond logo certifies that a lock is TSA-approved, recommends trying every possible combination from 000-999, starting with 000, 001, 002 … and working your work to 999. Although, admittedly, this seems time-consuming, they assure it should take 30 minutes or less, especially if the first number is a 0, 1 or 2 (something to keep in mind when you’re coming up with a new combination).

If the idea of that is overwhelming and your luggage features a built-in TSA lock, you can try this:

• Use a safety pin to locate the metal or plastic cylinder on the right side of the first dial. The flashlight and camera on your phone can help you zoom in on it.
• Turn the dial and, with the safety pin, look for an indentation or gap in the cylinder. Leave the dial at that number.
• Repeat the process for the other two dials.
• If the lock doesn’t open, turn all three dials down one number.
• If the lock still doesn’t open, keep turning all three dials down one number at a time until it does.

Here’s another method that has worked for travelers with TSA padlocks:

• Put pressure on the locking mechanism by pushing the button or pulling on the lock.
• Turn the first dial slowly until you hear an audible click, which signals it’s the correct number.
• Repeat the process for the next two dials.
• When all three numbers are correct, the lock will open.

If you forget your combination while the lock is still open, all you have to do is reset it with a new combination. Again, you may be best off checking the brand’s website for individual instructions, but you can reset most freestanding locks this way:

• Set each dial to 0 so it reads 000.
• Rotate the shackle 90 degrees from the lock position.
• Press the shackle and keep it down while you set your three-digit combination.
• Release the shackle and turn it back to the lock position.

To reset most built-in locks, simply slide the lock button in the direction of the arrow, set your new code and release the button.

Is it really worth using a TSA lock?

Using a TSA lock is totally a matter of personal preference. Many travelers feel safer knowing that their luggage is secure while others don’t want to have to worry about remembering one more thing. The fact is, of the 1.4 million checked bags the TSA screens daily, only about 5% of checked bags are actually opened by agents for further inspection.

Our advice? Use a TSA lock and store your combination safely in your phone for all-around peace of mind.

About Lois Alter Mark

Lois Alter Mark is an award-winning travel and lifestyle writer who also writes regularly for Forbes and Reader's Digest. She writes about everything from luxury cruises and spas to quirky restaurants and street art. A former New Yorker, Lois now lives in San Diego where she's turned into a weather wimp and is still searching for a good slice of pizza. 

Read more about Lois Alter Mark here.

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The best carry-on luggage to buy for all your trips in 2024, according to reviews

• Published: Apr. 19, 2024, 7:00 p.m.

These are some of the best carry-on luggage you can buy today, including these popular styles from Samsonite and CALPAK. Amazon, CALPAK

• Dawn Magyar | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

If you have a vacation planned this year, you’ll definitely want carry-on luggage to keep your most important essentials by your side.

These all-important carry-on bags can hold everything you need while on the plane but don’t trust to pack in your checked luggage. This may include your laptop, medications, a change of clothes and other valuables you want to keep an eye on.

Making carry-on luggage even more crucial to your trip is the ability to skip the dreaded wait at the baggage claim with all space to pack your belongings inside. Plus, there’s often plenty of pockets and storage features to keep your necessities organized and in place.

But with so many different carry-on luggage options on the market today, it can be a real challenge to decide which one to buy.

To help, here are some of the most recommended carry-on luggage available, including styles from Beis and CALPAK .

• Beis The Carry-On Roller: “This brand from actress Shay Mitchell has gone viral on TikTok thanks to its stunning monochromatic designs and its unique features, including a built-in weight indicator that lets you know if your luggage is over 50 pounds. It also has an extendable strap in the front that lets you attach a smaller bag, helping to free up your hands while traveling,” Good Housekeeping says.
• CALPAK Ambeur Mini Carry-On: “They’re slim, sleek, sport a rock-solid polycarbonate shell, feature an assortment of pockets and plenty of storage space, but its low price point makes it an especially attractive option for thrifty travelers,” Time says.
• Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner: “Even after six months of regularly traveling with this bag, it shows no signs of wear and tear, and any scuffs it has accumulated have been easily buffed out. Considering the reasonable price, durable construction, and spacious capacity, we think it’s a great choice for frequent fliers and anyone in need of a high-quality carry-on,” Travel + Leisure says.
• Away The Carry-On: “The lightweight polycarbonate-shell suitcases come in a spectrum of Instagram-worthy colors at a reasonable price. You can pick and choose upgrades like suitcase or luggage tag monogramming or an ejectable USB charger that keeps tech juiced up,” Forbes says.
• Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Carry-On Spinner: “This bag is designed to disappear by your side. It earned top marks in both ease of transport and for design and functionality. Well-placed grab handles and adequate adjustment stops on the telescoping handle make it easy to carry, load, or roll the bag, depending on the situation. There is even a grab handle on the bottom side of the case, so you won’t find yourself patting around to find an extra handhold when you need it,” GearLab says.

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Best Luggage in 2024: Save $375 on a 3-Piece Luggage Set

You're going to look like a travel pro with these luggage options from calpak, royce & rocket, and paravel..

The products featured in this article are from brands that are available in the NBCUniversal Checkout Marketplace. If you purchase something through our links, we get a commission.

Your spring and summer travel plans deserve the best luggage . No matter if you're gearing up for business travel, international travel, or just a quick weekend trip across state lines, you need carry-on luggage and checked luggage that can stand the test of time and trends.

Travel with the best luggage in 2024! Our shopping experts have rounded up the best luggage, including the best luggage brands, to help you create the best luggage set for you and your journey.

These suitcases, rolling luggage, and travel bag options will help keep your things organized and safe while helping you look put together at the airport or on the road.

Below, you'll find customer-loved rolling luggage, carry-on bags, hard-side luggage, soft-side luggage, bags with a TSA lock, packing cube options to maximize organization, and so much more .

These travel must-haves from bestselling luggage brand options offer more than just wheels. We chose rolling luggage and travel bag carry-ons that include tons of pockets and pouches for toiletries, electronics, pet supplies , and wet items like swimsuits.

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The 16 Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love a laptop backpack that's spacious, has organizational pockets, and will keep our laptops safe during travel.

In This Article

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• Others We Liked

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Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Since a laptop usually comes at a high price, it’s well worth it to invest in a backpack designed to protect your technology when you’re on the go. Whether you’re traveling on an airplane or trekking through campus, a comfortable, well-made backpack with a padded laptop pocket is a must-have.

Because comfort and durability are arguably the two most important factors when investing, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks on several occasions in our New York City lab and in the real world to find the best ones for everyday wear with these considerations in mind. We packed each bag with computers, iPads, sweatshirts, and more, and carried them around to see how they felt. We then tossed each one onto the ground from a tabletop to test the bag’s durability (using dummy laptops, of course). Keep reading to learn more about our top picks for style, comfort, value, and more.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The bag looks and feels compact but has a surprisingly large interior.

One of the zippers is fraying after four months of use.

Looking for a commuter backpack to take with you to the office and beyond? Solo’s Re:Define Backpack is equipped with everything a traveler or commuter needs for long days away from home. At first glance, the bag looks like a normal-sized backpack but it has a deceptively large interior with plenty of pockets to store both big and small items. The 15.6-inch laptop pocket in the back is fully padded and the bag also has an external USB port and a headphone port for traveling seamlessly with electronic devices. Even when we had the bag packed full of accessories and clothing, it felt nearly weightless and exceptionally comfortable to carry thanks to the padded and adjustable shoulder straps.

Made with recycled polyester, the backpack performed perfectly during our durability tests and didn’t sustain any scuffs or scratches after we tossed it onto the ground several times. All of the contents packed appeared to be in their original condition, so we feel confident in this backpack’s protective abilities. The zippers also impressed us by being super smooth even when the bag was packed to the brim. While it’s not the most stylish backpack on the market, its functional and simple design makes it well worth it — a great option for anyone looking for a durable backpack .

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 22.5 liters | 1.43 pounds | Recycled PET polyester | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Leather

Bee & kin the midi nomad backpack.

Bee & Kin

• Design 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

The sleek leather material looks nicer than a typical nylon backpack.

The straps are a bit too long, even when they are adjusted to the shortest setting.

Constructed with soft and sleek Italian leather, this mid-size backpack has the perfect combination of style and functionality. It’s big enough to fit a laptop up to 13 inches long, but it’s small enough that you can use it beyond traveling or commuting for everyday activities like running errands. After four months of use, we found this to be the perfect medium-size bag that is easy to clean, making it a perfect option for everyday use. It can easily fit a laptop, water bottle, wallet, notebook, and headphones with plenty of room left over. While we love the size for versatility, it still has plenty of thoughtful features for travelers like a pocket for a wireless charger ( sold separately ) and several interior pockets for storing accessories.

The leather material has a soft and plush feel to it which makes carrying the bag comfortable, but we wish the straps were a little shorter since the bag sits a little low on the back. Since the backpack is smaller and lightweight, this isn’t a huge issue and we still think the high-quality backpack is worth it for traveling, commuting, and everyday use.

The Details: 13 x 11.6 x 5.5 inches | 2.6 pounds | Leather | 13-inch laptop pocket

Best Convertible

Aer flight pack 3.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can wear this either as a backpack or a duffel bag.

The laptop sleeve is just a slip pocket in the main compartment.

We love that you can choose to wear the Aer Flight Pack 3 as a daily commuter’s backpack or convert it into a duffel bag or briefcase for a business trip or weekend getaway. There are plenty of pockets for organization with a designated laptop sleeve in the main compartment, another compartment with more than seven smaller pockets, and a small zippered pouch in the front. The laptop sleeve is only a slip pocket, and while it kept the laptop in place during our durability test, it isn’t as secure as it could be if it was a zippered pocket. We also found that there's a lot of space for clothes and tech devices for a quick weekend getaway or business trip. Because the pack is made with abrasion- and tear-resistant ballistic nylon, it feels sturdy and durable, sustaining no damage after we dropped it off a tabletop. Plus, we found the backpack, top handle, and duffel straps equally comfortable when carrying the bag in all three ways.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 5.5 inches | 20 liters | 3.4 pounds | Cordura ballistic nylon | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Padding

Incase icon backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.3 /5

The backpack is outfitted with thick padding.

It doesn’t have a water bottle pocket or trolley sleeve.

The Incase Icon Pack thoroughly impressed us with very thick padding throughout the backpack which adds an abundance of protection and comfort. The back has a padded laptop sleeve that was noticeably thick when we first opened up the backpack. When we dropped the bag onto the floor to test for durability, none of the contents were damaged. The thick padding in the back and on the straps provides comfort while wearing the pack, and we love that the adjustable strap is lined with a soft fabric. Although we wish this backpack came with more features like a water bottle holder or a trolley sleeve, the pack has two spacious compartments, a front pocket, and a variety of smaller pockets for exceptional organization on the inside, making it well worth the investment for the comfortable, durable backpack.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 9 inches | 20 liters | 2.7 pounds | 840D nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Expandable

Samsonite elevation plus backpack.

• Organization 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

The expandable zippers add tons of extra space.

It's not the most stylish backpack.

I've tested dozens of backpacks and it can be hard to find a backpack that stands out from others, which is why I'm a big fan of this one from Samsonite, which I personally tested in the lab. While it has a simple design from the outside, the backpack is filled with special features that make it better than your average backpack. It has tons of pockets to store every travel essential you could ever need, including laptops, tablets, notebooks, chargers, passports, and it has a water bottle pocket on the side that keeps a bottle secure (it didn't even fall out when I threw the pack off a table several times). However, my favorite part of the pack is the expandable zipper that adds 1.5 inches of extra space, which came in handy when I packed the bag with an extra jacket. Plus, it fits underneath an airplane seat with ease, and there's extra padding in the back paneling and shoulder straps for superior comfort while traveling.

The Details: 17.8 x 12 x 6.5 inches | 22.75 liters | 2.2 pounds | Recycled polyester | Expandable

Best Solar-powered

Solgaard lifepack backpack.

• Comfort 4 /5

It’s made out of recycled plastic bottles found on beaches and has a built-in, solar-powered USB charger.

The capacity is smaller than other backpacks we tested.

While this backpack impressed us during testing, it also won us over thanks to Solgaard’s sustainability mission in which all of its products are made with ocean-bound recycled materials. The brand uses its patented Shore-tex material to create this backpack with recycled plastic water bottles found on beaches or river banks. In addition, the backpack includes a solar-powered USB charging port so you can charge on the go without having to worry about the life of your power bank. In our testing lab, we were able to fit all of the items on our packing list, including a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle, but there wasn’t a lot of space left over. The laptop sleeve is in the back of the bag, and although it’s just a slip pocket, it wasn’t damaged during our durability tests. When it comes to padding, the backpack is outfitted with ample cushioning that makes it comfortable to wear with the adjustable, supportive chest strap, too.

The Details: 12.4 x 6.9 x 19 inches | 19 liters | 4.85 Pounds | Anti-theft lock | USB port

Best Splurge

Lo & sons rowledge.

Lo & Sons

The nylon material and leather accents give the backpack a sleek look without sacrificing protection.

The laptop compartment is too small for any computers over 13 inches long.

Lo & Sons’ The Rowledge laptop backpack is one of the most expensive bags we tested, but it seriously delivered in performance. The nylon exterior outfitted with leather accents makes this sleek, timeless bag a dream for travelers and office-goers. While it may small from the outside, we found that it was possible to fit a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle with ease. Our only gripe is that the laptop pocket can only fit laptops that are 13 inches or smaller, so you'll want to consider that if you own a larger computer. The adjustable straps and ample padding throughout the entire backpack add to the comfort and durability of the pack. Although the bag felt a little stiff at first, the material quickly contours to the shape of your shoulders and back over time for a more comfortable fit after a few wears. After tossing the bag off of a tabletop, the laptop remained unharmed in the designated sleeve in the back of the bag, and the exterior showed no signs of damage, so we think this sturdy, well-made backpack is worth the splurge.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.5 x 6.75 inches | 21 liters | 3.2 pounds | Nylon, leather | 13.5-inch laptop pocket

Best Budget

Tzowla travel laptop backpack.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

The bag has lots of smart features for travelers.

The materials feel lower in quality.

This wallet-friendly backpack exceeded expectations during testing due to all of the thoughtful designs that rivaled the most expensive bags we tested. After four months of regularly using the bag, we especially love the padded laptop sleeve that protects laptops up to 15.6 inches long. The backpack has a variety of other smart features including a USB port, a passcode lock, and a headphone port to make traveling with electronics a breeze. We found that the main compartment is very spacious and easy to pack with bulkier items like a jacket or lunchbox, and the front compartment has tons of little pockets for organizing smaller items.

Made with polyester fabric, the backpack feels fairly durable and didn’t get damaged during our durability tests, but it is noticeably lower quality than the other bags we tested with a higher price point. However, the straps have comfortable padding and adjustable buckles, so the bag is still very comfortable to carry.

The Details: 18.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 34 liters | 1.83 pounds | Polyester blend | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB and headphone port | Password lock

Best Organization

Timbuk2 authority laptop backpack deluxe.

• Capacity 4.5 /5

It has plenty of pockets for organizing all of your belongings efficiently.

The capacity could have been bigger.

The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe has a variety of interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized on the go. There’s a designated spot for all of your must-haves with a padded laptop pocket in the back, a main compartment with slip and zippered pockets, and a spacious front pocket for items like a notebook. Plus, there’s a side slip pocket for your water bottle and a trolley sleeve for attaching the pack to a suitcase. We love the ability to access your laptop from the back zipper or through the main compartment of the backpack. Additionally, we appreciated the sleek pack’s compression straps so you can adjust the capacity of the bag, but we still thought the main compartment could have been a bit larger. The padded backpack straps are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and if you live in a rainy climate, the durable recycled nylon exterior is also water-resistant.

The Details: 18.9 x 11.42 x 5.31 inches | 20 liters | 2.51 pounds | Recycled nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Most Versatile

Monos metro backpack.

The front pocket comes off so you can travel with or without the extra space.

The original model has visible snaps when the front pocket is removed, but that's been updated with the newer version.

The Monos Metro Backpack has a removable front pocket that adds quite a bit of extra space which is a game-changer for traveling. For other times when you may not need the excess room, all you have to do is pull the discrete cord in the back of the pouch to release pouch and take it off. Best of all, when you remove the pouch, the backpack still looks sleek, and it doesn't look like any part of the bag is missing thanks to the brand's modular system for taking on and off the pouch.

We love the soft vegan leather look of the backpack and found the materials to provide protection against laptop damage when we dropped it. There are several pockets inside the main compartment, and the laptop pocket is in the back, separated from the rest of the bag. Whether you're traveling on an airplane or heading into the office, this stylish bag is ideal for those looking for a versatile backpack. It also comes in nylon fabric with more colors to choose from.

The Details: 11.5 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 18 liters | 3 pounds | Vegan leather or nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

• Design 4.6 /5
• Capacity 4.2 /5
• Durability 4 /5
• Comfort 4.6 /5

This lightweight backpack has a sleek, contemporary design that comes in several earthy colors.

It has a smaller capacity than many backpacks and can only fit a day or two of clothes.

If you’re looking to travel in style with a great carry-on backpack , Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to best suited for day outings because of its smaller capacity. The bag fit all of the packing items during testing, but it would be difficult to fit much more in the main compartment. The ReNew Transit was also comfortable to wear thanks to its lightweight polyester material and compact build. The front flap of the backpack has an external pocket for smaller items, and it folds over to attach magnetically to the front of the backpack.

During our durability tests, the front magnets stayed securely together, and the body of the backpack didn’t get crushed or damaged after we threw it off a table multiple times. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack when traveling, too. The laptop sleeve keeps a computer safe, and there's also a water bottle holder on the side and an additional front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With five earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences.

The Details: 12 x 17.5 x 7.25 inches | 27 liters | Recycled polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Bagsmart Bonchemin Laptop Backpack

The high-quality material and functional design is similar to pricier bags we tried.

You have to clip the laptop pocket with the provided carabiners otherwise the bag will open and your laptop will drop.

Rivaling higher-priced backpacks we tried, this option from Bagsmart proves that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for a lower price, so we dubbed it the best backpack for its high value. During our tests, we found that this bag is spacious enough to fit a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a sweatshirt with plenty of room left over to add more. The backpack is made with a cushioned polyester fabric and foam padded straps that had us raving about comfort when wearing. However, because the bag is made out of fabric, it may get dirtier than a nylon pack, but it didn’t show any signs of damage during our durability tests.

With four separate zippered compartments and more than 10 interior pockets, travelers will also appreciate the variety of spots to organize everything. The pack also has anti-theft zippers, a USB charging port, a side water bottle pocket, and a trolley sleeve, making this one of the best-designed laptop backpacks we tried.

The Details: 18.5 x 12.5 x 7 inches | 40 liters | 1.5 pounds | Polyester | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port

Best for Photographers

Peak design everyday backpack.

It comes with Velcro separators for added protection for camera or video gear.

The magnetic top opening has a slight learning curve to open the backpack easily.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack will give you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your camera or video equipment while traveling. Its structured design adds extra protection, and the backpack comes with four stiff Velcro separators to further protect fragile technology. Plus, the padded laptop sleeve in the back will ensure that your laptop travels safely. The icing on the cake of this backpack is how lightweight it feels to wear, especially for long periods of time. The weatherproof nylon exterior didn’t scuff or get scratched when we threw the backpack onto the floor, and best of all, the laptop and iPad remained unharmed. Since the bag is designed for photographers, it comes with three separators that you can fasten to the side of the backpack to protect and organize camera gear. The magnetic top latch was slightly finicky to open at first, but once done, it gets easier to use.

The Details: 24.5 x 14.2 x 7.8 inches | 30 liters | 4.1 pounds | Recycled nylon, polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket | Fits DSLR cameras

Best for Students

Fjällräven räven 28.

• Durability 4.3 /5

The backpack is comfortable and breathable to wear while walking.

The polyester blend wasn’t as durable as we hoped.

For students walking across campus or between classes, the Fjällräven Räven 28 Backpack is the best option. We love how breathable the back padding is and that it provides plenty of cushioning and support when it's on. The design itself is not bulky, so we weren't worried about brushing up against other people while walking through crowded places during our real-world test. Plus, there are tons of pockets in the main compartment for classroom essentials, and each side of the backpack has a water bottle slip pocket.

We did notice that this bag easily collects dust or lint after it is tossed on the ground. Despite the slight dirtiness of the fabric, we found that the backpack does an excellent job of protecting a laptop in the designated padded sleeve in the back. It's not difficult to fit varying needs, even after using it on a daily commute for two months, and we found it battled the elements well, keeping a computer untouched by rain, too.

The Details: 18.5 x 14 x 6.1 inches | 28 liters | Polyester and cotton with wax coating | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Sustainable

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

• Design 4.3 /5

It’s made with 100 percent recycled materials that can be fully recycled if the bag can no longer be used.

The main zipper has a fabric trim over it that makes it difficult to open and close the bag.

This backpack from Troubadour is one of the most unique backpacks we’ve ever tested. Not only is the bag made with 100 percent recycled fabric but when it’s no longer able to be used, it can actually be recycled instead of going into a landfill. While we’re big fans of the sustainability of the bag, it’s also extremely comfortable to wear and looks very sleek from the outside.

The back panel and shoulder straps have lifejacket-level padding so you’ll be plenty comfortable wearing the bag for long periods of time. Your laptop will be thoroughly protected thanks to the cushioned pocket in the back — a distinguishing feature of a good laptop bag . There's an ideal amount of small and medium pockets sprinkled throughout the interior and exterior so it’s easy to pack a sweatshirt, book, phone charger, keys, and more for a trip. The design and materials of the bag feel exceptionally durable, and it still looks new after four months of regular use. The only issue we ran into was with the zipper being slightly difficult to find because of the fabric hood that covers the main zipper.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 17.6 liters | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester | 16-inch laptop pocket

Béis The Backpack

• Design 4.8 /5

It has a simple, no-frills design for extra versatility.

It may be too large for every-day use.

We love the simple design of the Béis backpack and found that it’s packed full of thoughtful features making it the perfect backpack for travelers , students, and commuters alike. We were impressed with the large capacity of the main compartment that could easily fit all of the items on our packing list, including tech items like a laptop and iPad on the inside and a water bottle in one of the two slip pockets on the sides. The main compartment has several smaller pockets and a designated padded laptop sleeve. After we did our drop test to evaluate the durability, the padding did a good job of protecting the laptop, but there isn’t padding at the bottom of the bag which had us questioning how much protection the backpack offers. Even when it was completely packed, the padded straps were comfortable to wear, and the back had more padding for added comfort.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 5.5 inches | 22 liters | 1.8 pounds | Cotton, PVC, polyester | 14.5-inch laptop pocket

Other Laptop Backpacks We Liked

Here are some other backpacks we've tested that are worth mentioning, all of which we liked for various reasons but found some slight issues with.

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack : The design is sleek and functional, but we think there isn’t enough padding for comfort or laptop protection if the bag is handled roughly.

Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack : The slim design is sleek and professional without sacrificing capacity, but the outer material did scuff a bit during our durability tests.

Vohler Laptop Backpack With Charger : This pack was a serious contender for the best budget bag thanks to its sturdy build and protective padding, but our above pick had a few more standout features than this one.

Swissgear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack : Ideal for students, travelers, or commuters, we loved that this bag is durable and has plenty of storage solutions, but it wasn’t as comfortable as we hoped.

Between several different lab testing occasions, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks from highly rated brands like The North Face, Away, Samsonite, Swissgear, and more. We evaluated each pack on a rating scale of one to five based on capacity, design, comfort, and durability.

First, to test for capacity, we used a packing list to fill the bag with a laptop, an iPad, a sweatshirt, a water bottle, a notebook, and a toiletry bag. Backpacks scoring a five for capacity were able to fit all of the packing items and provided an appropriate amount of organization solutions for the laptop, as well as the other items both big and small. During the packing process, we evaluated the design of each bag, and our top picks for the design category had plenty of padding around the laptop pocket, a variety of helpful pockets, and handles or straps that made carrying the backpack effortless and intuitive.

Then, we put on the backpacks and walked around for at least ten minutes to get a feel for the bag. We looked out for any pain caused by shoulder or sternum straps, pinching, or any other type of discomfort. The best bags for comfort were outfitted with padding in the back and straps and didn’t cause any awkwardness or irritation from the pack. To test for durability, we pushed the backpacks off of a tabletop and checked the interior contents and exterior for any scuff marks, scratches, or damage. The backpacks also went out for four months of long-term testing in the real world so we could monitor the quality and functionality to ultimately decide which products tested best .

As we continue to test more backpacks, we will update this article with our findings.

Tips for Buying a Laptop Backpack

Check the laptop sleeve size.

Most laptops measure anywhere from 10 to 17 inches in length, so it’s important to double-check the dimensions of the laptop sleeve to ensure it fits in the designated pocket. Usually, you can find the laptop length capacity of a backpack in the “specification” description of the bag.

Padding is key for protection and comfort

The more padding around the laptop, the better protected it will be if that bag is handled roughly . Since the laptop pocket or sleeve is usually in the back of the bag, there should be padding in the back to add comfort while wearing the backpack. Also, be on the lookout for additional padding on the straps to make the bag even more comfortable to wear.

During our tests, we placed the laptop directly into the pocket without a case on it and found that the top-performing bags had enough padding to protect the laptop from getting damaged. However, if you feel more comfortable slipping it into a laptop case and placing it in the backpack, feel free to do so.

Laptops often measure anywhere from 13 to 17 inches, which is the diagonal measurement of the screen. To get the right measurement, take a tape measure and place it from one screen corner to the opposite diagonally to get the right measurement. Most laptop pockets will say what dimensions the space will fit so be sure to double-check your laptop size to get the right backpack.

It always depends on the airline you fly and the luggage restrictions that come with your ticket, but generally, a backpack can be a personal item on a flight in addition to a carry-on. However, if your laptop backpack is too large to fit underneath the seat in front of you, it could potentially count as a carry-on instead, so it's important to check with your airline ahead of time.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp writes most of the team's tested content and participates in every lab and real-world test to try out luggage, outdoor, and beauty products. Anna owns several laptop backpacks including picks from Monos, Troubadour, and Lo & Sons. She pulled from her own experiences traveling with backpacks and combed through thorough testing insights to recommend the best laptop backpacks.

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The best packing cubes to save space and keep you organized

These travel cubes will keep your suitcase in order, whether you’re going on a short getaway or a round-the-world adventure.

Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway or planning an around-the-world adventure, packing cubes can help streamline the packing process. Packing cubes are bags that come in different sizes in a set. They can help organize clothing and save room in your suitcase. Frequent traveler Kayli King uses packing bags daily to keep clothes organized in her van while traveling. “Honestly, after traveling so long, I can’t imagine not using them,” she says.  

After talking to King, we compared packing bags, looking for durable travel cubes with functional designs and a wide variety of sizes. Our top overall pick is the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes. Compression zippers, handles, and a low price tag make this set the best all around.

Our picks for the best packing cubes for travel

The best packing cubes for travel, best overall: gonex compression packing cubes.

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it:   The Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are our choice for the best overall packing cubes. Despite being one of the more affordable travel cube sets on this list, these compression bags have plenty of features, including ripstop nylon, reinforced seams, and handles. They compress via double zippers that pull the edges of the travel packing bag together. The packing cubes can hold everything from socks to jackets and are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces. They’re also available in over 10 colors.

Keep in mind:   These packing cubes unzip only halfway, so you have to stuff your clothes inside rather than lay them flat. Some reviewers note that the compression zippers are difficult for people with arthritis or reduced mobility.

Product details: Size: 4-piece set: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), and 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon | Weight: 12 ounces (set)  

Best for traveling light: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set  

Buy it now at   Backcountry

Why we like it: At 4.2 ounces, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is half the weight of other packing cubes on this list, but they’re far from flimsy. They’re made of ripstop polyester and have “self-repairing” zippers—if a gap opens in the chain, you can slide one of the zippers over it to close it. Eagle Creek also offers a warranty that covers fabric tears and zippers. Because they’re lightweight and sturdy, these travel cubes are great for hikers and campers who want to organize their backpacks.  

Keep in mind: The set includes only three smaller-sized travel cubes. While great for backpacks and carry-ons, you may want bigger packing cubes for checked luggage.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches (extra small), 7.25 x 10 x 3.25 inches (small), and 10 x 14.25 x 3.25 inches (medium) | Material:   Ripstop polyester | Weight:   4.2 ounces (set)  

Best for overpackers: REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Buy it now at   REI

Why we like it:   The packing cubes in the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set are the opposite of compression bags. Each cube has a second zipper that, when unzipped, increases its width to six inches—double the size of other packing bags on this list. They’re designed to last with ripstop polyester treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. The packing cubes also meet the Bluesign criteria, the highest environmental standard for sustainable textile manufacturing.

Keep in mind:   REI Co-op recently updated its packing cubes, and some buyers believe the quality has suffered as a result. Third-party reviews mention thin material, unreinforced zippers, and mesh that snags.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 8 x 6 x 3 inches (small), 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium), and 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon, polyester mesh | Weight: 8.3 ounce (set)  

Best upcycled option: Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle

Why we like it:   The brightly colored Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle is an upcycled option you can feel good about. The packing bags are made of 100-percent repurposed nylon and mesh. Kayli King likes that the mesh panels allow your things to air out and that you can hang them up by their handles.

Cotopaxi’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond its packing cubes. The company says that 94 percent of its products use repurposed, recycled, or responsible materials. They also offer programs to repair items and trade them in to avoid landfills.

Keep in mind:   Despite its competitive price, this bundle comes with only three packing cubes. The size range is small compared to other packing cube sets. However, King prefers this set for longer trips.

Product details: Size: 3-piece set: 7 x 8 x 2 inches (2-liter bag), 6 x 11.5 x 3 inches (3-liter bag), 10 x 11.5 x 5 inches (10-liter bag) | Material:   100 percent repurposed nylon and mesh | Weight: 9 ounces (set)

Best style: Calpak Packing Cubes Set

Buy it now at   Calpak

Why we like it:   While many packing cubes seem to favor function over fashion, the Calpak Packing Cubes Set balances both. The packing bags come in over 20 colors, with patterns like “cheetah” and “lime viper.” They’re durable, with thick polyester sides and mesh covers that let you see inside. Each packing cube has a zippered pocket for smaller essentials and an ID tag to write down the contents. If five travel cubes aren’t enough, you can buy additional Calpak travel organizers, like shoe bags and laptop totes.

Keep in mind:   The Calpak Packing Cube set is by far the heaviest and most expensive option on this list. You may want lighter packing cubes if you travel with just a carry-on or are concerned about overweight luggage.

Product details: Size:   5-piece set: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small x 2), 5 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large) | Material: Polyester and mesh | Weight: 1 pound, 12.8 ounces (set)  

Best set: Tripped Checked Bag Set

Why we like it:   The Tripped Checked Bag Set has a travel cube for almost every packing need. The set includes seven packing bags, including two extra large sizes, a slim cube, a shoe bag, and a roll-top laundry bag. Mix and match the travel cubes to fit your suitcase and packing needs. Most of the packing cubes in the Checked Bag Set also have a compression feature. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and an illustrated set featuring national parks.  

Keep in mind:   While the packing cubes are made from a ripstop blend, reviewers mention that the material and stitching feel thin and flimsy. Some of the travel cubes don’t unzip all the way, making packing more difficult.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 12.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches (shoe bag), 12.5 x 4.5 x 3 inches (slim cube), 21 x 11.5 x 0.1 inches (laundry bag), 10 x 7 x 4 inches (small), 14 x 10 x 4 inches (large), 16 x 12 x 4 inches (extra large x 2) | Material:   Ripstop nylon-polyester blend | Weight:   15.5 ounces (set)  

Best budget: Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes

Why we like it: The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes come with six packing cubes, including a laundry bag and a shoe bag. They cost less than half the price of most other packing bag sets on this list. The low price doesn’t mean low quality, though. The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes are made of thick polyester, with sturdy zippers and mesh panels to help keep clothes fresh. Plus, they come in 12 colors.  

Keep in mind: The laundry and shoe bags are small. The polyester is not ripstop and can melt if dried on high heat.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 4.7 x 17 inches (shoe bag), 14 x 20 inches (laundry bag), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 17.5 x 12.15 x 5 inches (extra large) | Material:   Polyester | Weight:   10.4 ounces (set)  

How we chose the best travel packing cubes

We weighed the following qualities when curating the best packing cubes:

Third-party reviews:   We considered reviews from sources other than company websites and spoke with seasoned travelers to find out what they liked.  

Brand reputation: Anything you use for traveling should be functional, long-lasting, and, preferably, good for the planet. We looked for brands that value high-quality gear and sustainability.

Quality of material:   We chose travel cubes that were made to last, with durable materials like ripstop nylon and polyester, reinforced seams, and strong zippers.

Size range: Different-sized packing bags make for an easier packing experience. We chose packing cube sets in a range of sizes, from extra small to extra large.

Compression options: Some packing cube brands offer compression bags, which can be a nice feature if you’re tight on space.  

Tips for buying packing bags

Here’s what to consider when picking your own packing cubes:

Brand reputation  

Choose a trusted brand with a proven reputation. Brands with zipper and fabric warranties or repair programs will also help you get as many vacations as possible with your travel organizers.

If you only use carry-ons or smaller luggage, choose a packing cube set with fewer, smaller travel cubes. If you prefer to use checked luggage, go for a packing cube set with more travel cubes and bigger sizes.  

If you travel with just a carry-on or want to use packing cubes for hiking, choose an ultralight packing cube set. Every ounce counts when packing light, and some travel cube sets are nearly 1.5 pounds lighter than others.

Packing cubes are typically made of polyester or nylon, both strong synthetic fabrics. If you need something even more durable, look for ripstop nylon or polyester, which has extra threads to prevent tears from becoming bigger.

Some brands offer compression bags, which can save space. However, King finds that compressed bags can be awkwardly shaped, making them harder to fit together in your suitcase. If you are a heavy packer, travel cubes for shoes or laundry can help keep the rest of your luggage clean.

Frequently asked questions

Are packing cubes worth it?

Packing cubes can help save space in your suitcase and improve organization, reducing stress while traveling.

Does TSA allow packing cubes?

Packing cubes are TSA-approved, provided everything inside is within the regulations. Check with your airline on what is allowed in carry-on and checked bags.

How many packing cubes do you need for a suitcase?

How many packing cubes you need depends on the length of your trip and the size of your suitcase. Four to six packing cubes is a great starting point. You can adjust the number as needed.

How much does a packing cube cost?

The packing cube sets recommended here cost between 20 and 70 dollars. Some companies may sell individual packing cubes for less.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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