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The 12 Best Personal Item Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Every bag on our list is compact enough to fit under an airplane seat.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Over the course of your travels, you may have found yourself wondering, “What exactly does count as a personal item?” After all, we know it’s not the same thing as a carry-on. The simple answer? A personal item is any bag that fits under the airplane seat in front of you, though the precise dimensions of these bags vary by carrier. You can use pretty much any bag ranging from duffels and weekenders to backpacks and sling bags, but for the most part, they should be under 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

For this article, we tested nearly 50 personal item bags both in our New York City lab and in real-world settings over the past six months, paying close attention to capacity, design, ease of use, comfort, portability, durability, and value. The picks listed below performed the highest in all categories. 

Best Overall

July carry all weekender.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Organization 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

It’s lightweight, protective, and compact yet spacious. 

It may be too small for longer trips (or chronic overpackers).

It’s no wonder this bag snagged our best overall category — it truly has everything. From its spacious main compartment and its abundance of pockets to its comfy, padded shoulder strap, July’s Carry All Weekender just makes travel easy. A designated protective laptop sleeve, a large front pocket, and several interior slip pockets allow for streamlined organization, while subtle cushioning on the strap and soft leather on the top handles keep things comfy no matter how you choose to carry it. The bag even boasts a trolley sleeve so travelers can easily attach it to their rolling luggage. On top of all that, it’s ultra-sleek and compact enough to fit under an airplane seat with room to spare.

Because it’s on the smaller side, we did find we could only fit a day or two’s worth of clothing in the bag during our tests. However, seeing as we’d use this as a personal item bag and not an actual carry-on , we thought that was fair. We feel it works perfectly as both a weekend trip bag and as an everyday option for remote workers .  

The Details: 10.5 x 18 x 8.5 inches | 2.2 pounds | Nylon, leather

Best Backpack

Solo re:define backpack.

• Comfort 5 /5

It’s extremely lightweight and has seemingly unlimited space.

The straps are pretty close together, which may feel uncomfortable for those with wider shoulders or necks.

“I wouldn’t change anything about this backpack! It’s perfect!” is an actual quote from one of our editors who tried out the Solo Re:Define Backpack. It’s remarkably spacious thanks to a large main compartment with plenty of additional pockets and sleeves. No matter how much we stuffed inside, there seemed to be room for more. After packing it with a laptop, a tablet, a pair of shoes, a large toiletry bag, a shirt, a pair of pants, a quarter-zip jacket, a book, a wallet, keys, lotion, and AirPods, we still had room to spare — plus, the backpack remained lightweight and comfortable to carry. We also appreciated the anti-microbial coating during our tests, which made the backpack easy to clean with wipes. Other features we loved included padded straps, water-repellant construction, and a built-in USB port for mobile charging.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 1.4 pounds | PET polyester

Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote

• Ease of Use 5 /5

It’s extremely versatile and lightweight.

It’s kind of an odd size — too small to be a true tote but too large to be a true purse.

We’re not exaggerating when we say we’ve brought this purse-tote hybrid with us everywhere . From cross-country work trips to beach days to running errands around town, the Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote has been with us through it all, making our travels lighter and smoother every step of the way. It’s both impressively spacious and packed with pockets (including a laptop sleeve), and through our tests, we felt it distributes weight well. We loved the magnetic top closure and padded sleeves, and could not get over how cleanable, durable, and sustainable the fabric is. It makes the perfect personal item for travel because it’s large enough to fit a change of clothes and a laptop, but small enough to fit under a seat and pass as a purse.

The Details: 13 x 17 x 5 inches | Recycled nylon

Best Expandable

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

It’s both expandable and foldable — and it’s very sturdy.

It could use more pockets and organization features.

We brought the Le Pliage Expandable on a three-week trip to Europe, on various beach trips, on long road trips, and, of course, on a handful of flights. It fit everything on our four-day packing list with plenty of room to spare, and to no one’s surprise considering the brand’s popularity, it was a joy to bring everywhere . That’s due in part to the bag’s knack for carrying everything from multiple outfits and toiletries to water bottles and snacks. It also folds down into a small square, so you can easily pack it in your other luggage or store it when not in use. Despite its folding feature, the bag’s polyamide canvas and leather construction is quite durable — plus, it’s also expandable, so travelers can change the shape depending on what they’re carrying and where they’re stowing it. A reliable zip closure, a detachable shoulder strap, and efficient pocket space round out this lightweight underseat bag, but keep in mind that it will need to go into the overhead bin when fully expanded.

The Details: 13.8-20.5 x 17.7 x 9.1 inches | 1.5 pounds | 30-50 liters | Polyamide canvas, leather

Best Hardside

Calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5

It’s tiny yet spacious, smooth-rolling, and frankly pretty cute.

There are no exterior pockets, so travelers can’t easily remove items on the go.

It may be hard to believe a hardside spinner could fit under an airplane seat, but we can assure you the Calpak Hue Mini can. It’s cute and compact, yet it’s deep enough to fit the essentials and a bit more. (We easily packed two pairs of pants, a bomber jacket, flip flops, three shirts, and a laptop in a sleeve.) While the suitcase doesn’t have any exterior pockets, we appreciated the interior zip-around divider which boasts a mesh zip pocket and two sleeves, as well as two other small zip pockets on the other side of the interior. When placing the spinner underneath a plane seat, we found that it fit pretty much perfectly and additionally has some give despite its hard shell. Back in our New York City lab, we ran it through an obstacle course and loved how smoothly it sailed through due to four high-quality spinner wheels and an overall sturdy construction. Other features we enjoyed were a built-in lock, a telescoping handle, and an additional top handle. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 9 inches | 6 pounds | 31.2-liter capacity | Polycarbonate, polyester

Best Organization

Nomad lane bento bag v 3.0.

• Capacity 3 /5
• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5
• Functionality 4 /5

It’s packed with pockets and is extremely durable.

It’s one of the pricier options on this list.

If you’re the type of traveler who likes having a compartment for everything, you’ll love the V4 Bento Bag. Despite its small stature, we found it could easily fit everything on our packing list and more thanks to its impressive organization features. In addition to a spacious main compartment, travelers will find two zippered pockets that include two toiletry bags, as well as a bag for shoes or laundry, a laptop sleeve, and an almost overwhelming number of additional interior and exterior pockets. During testing, we were delighted to discover every single one of the zippers on this bag ran smoothly rather than sticking or snagging. We also loved that it opens clamshell-style like a suitcase, which allowed us to see all of our items at once during the packing and unpacking process. After stuffing it with travel essentials and throwing it off a counter several times, we noticed neither the bag nor its contents were damaged in the least. So you can imagine our surprise when, despite its durability and many features, it still remained lightweight and comfy to carry. 

The Details: 17 x 8 x 10 inches | 2.76 pounds | 24-liter capacity | Nylon, leather

Best With Shoe Compartment

Calpak luka duffel bag.

• Portability 4.5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

It’s one of the comfiest bags to carry on our list, and it has plenty of organization features.

The laptop sleeve could use more padding.

This soft and squishable bag is full of pockets — our favorite one being the dedicated shoe compartment , which is non-invasive yet large enough for two pairs of shoes. Plus, the compartment is so subtle (it’s tucked into the main compartment via a separate side entrance) that you’ll barely even notice it’s there. But beyond the Luka Duffel’s special shoe storage space, we love this bag for its roominess and comfortable carry thanks to soft, malleable polyester and cushioned straps. On the exterior, you’ll find a laptop sleeve, a water bottle pocket, an additional small pocket, and a trolley sleeve, while the large interior boasts six pockets ranging from zippered mesh to slip pockets. While the bag does come with a removable shoulder strap, we feel the top handles are already long enough (and comfy enough) to use as shoulder straps. Despite its soft construction and lightweight build, the Luka sufficiently protected laptops and other fragile items during our drop tests. To top it all off, the bag comes in 20 colors ranging from pastels to metallics to neutrals.

The Details: 12 x 16 x 7 inches | 2.1 pounds | 22-liter capacity | Polyester

MZ Wallace Nik

It’s nice to look at and features a whopping 16 pockets.

The shoulder strap isn’t super padded. 

If boxy black bags lacking any kind of stylish charm just aren’t your thing, opt for MZ Wallace’s Nik Duffel Bag. The shiny, quilted exterior paired with leather accents and gold or silver hardware is sure to win over even the most fashionable of travelers — plus, the shape is more like an elongated semi-circle than a bulky cube. But its appearance isn’t the only winning detail: we found, through months of testing, that the bag easily fits four day’s worth of clothes and essentials thanks to its multiple pockets (seven externally, nine internally) and sizable main compartment. Our favorite pocket may just be the durable dedicated laptop pocket, though the huge exterior front pockets have come in quite handy as well. The zippers run smooth, the build is flexible, and the whole thing is surprisingly lightweight, even when stuffed to the brim. You can cop this bag in six colors including green-and-white plaid and Moondust Metallic Lacquer.  

The Details: 17 x 7 x 12.2 inches | 2.1 pounds | REC Oxford, leather, nylon

Best Splurge

Tumi voyageur oxford compact carry-on.

Bloomingdale's

• Capacity 4 /5
• Functionality 4.5 /5

It fits a ton of stuff for its size, and it feels like a true luxury item.

You may have to lay it on its face to fit it under the seat.

Though this bag was technically designed as a carry-on, it meets the size requirements to count as a personal item, too — and that’s why we love it. It has far more built-in organization and space than the average personal item bag, having been constructed with two main compartments that were large enough for us to fit two pairs of pants, two shirts, a jacket, a toiletry bag, and a pair of shoes. It’s also full of pockets, including one exterior pocket, three interior pockets, and a laptop sleeve, so staying organized will never be an issue with this bag. Two interior zip dividers work wonders for separating wet or dirty clothes from the rest of your items, while four gliding wheels, a long telescoping handle, a smaller top handle, and a trolley sleeve provide plenty of carrying options. And, because this is Tumi, luxurious touches came as no surprise to us — though they did still impress us. A built-in USB port for on-the-go charging is subtle yet easily accessible, and a sleek logo luggage tag comes attached to the bag. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6.6 pounds | 21-liter capacity | Nylon, leather

Caraa Studio Large Leather Tote

It’s stylish, convertible, and incredibly spacious.

There’s no luggage sleeve.

It came as no surprise to us that Caraa’s Studio Tote Leather wound up being our favorite tote — we’re long-time fans of the brand’s organizational features, after all. In addition to its spacious main section, this bag boasts a separate, exterior easy-access compartment (with its own zipper!), as well as a huge, padded laptop slot that zips shut. There are also dedicated pockets for a water bottle, passport, phone, and wallet. On top of that, there’s even a small pouch meant to house cosmetics and other small items connected to the rest of the bag by a strap. 

Perhaps the feature that impressed us most, though, was the tote’s ability to convert into a backpack thanks to a pair of extra straps. We love that you can fully detach those straps when not in use (so the bag looks like a regular zippered tote), but found they actually don’t look bad when left hanging on the bag either. The multiple strap options make this a versatile pick and, despite its spaciousness, we didn’t think it looked bulky, even on a smaller frame.

The Details: 13 x 18 x 7.5 inches | 2.4 pounds | 28.8-liter capacity | Leather, nylon

Best Budget

Hyc00 travel duffel bag.

• Capacity 4.5 /5

It’s designed with just as many clever features as its higher-end counterparts. 

It’s on the longer side, so packing it too full may make it feel bulky.

The best thing about the HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag is it’s the ideal budget option, but doesn’t feel like a budget option. During our tests, we quickly noticed just how comfy the bag was to carry — both the detachable shoulder strap and the top handles are soft and padded, which allowed us to carry the bag for a considerable bit of time without feeling pain or discomfort. It’s also slightly smaller than the average duffel, meaning it fits more easily under an airplane seat. But that’s not to say it’s lacking space — the duffel boasts two exterior zip pockets (one with a zipper and one without), two interior zipper pockets, and two interior mesh pockets. The bag is additionally crafted with luxe features typical of higher end bags, like a trolley strap and a zipper that can clasp down to make the duffel more compact.

The Details: 10.63 x 21.65 x 7.09 inches | 2 pounds | 30-liter capacity | Nylon

Best Sling Bag

The north face isabella sling.

The North Face

• Quality 5 /5

It’s compact, stylish, and comfortable to carry.

This is the smallest bag on this list — most of the other bags can hold double the amount.

After testing more than a dozen sling bags, The North Face’s Isabella Sling was the clear winner. Not just because it fits under the seat in front of you with room to spare, but also because, like most North Face products, it’s very well-made. The thick padding on the strap makes it super comfy, and the hardware is real metal, which keeps the zippers from sticking or rusting. We especially appreciated the pockets, especially that the interior of the front pocket is soft enough to store sunglasses without a case. We found the small pocket on the strap is perfect for keys, while the back pocket fits and protects a full-size tablet with ease. The main compartment is deep enough to fit a water bottle or toiletries and a change of clothes.

The Details: 14.5 x 9.5 x 5.5 inches | 12 ounces | 9-liter capacity | Recycled polyester, recycled nylon

Other Personal Item Bags We Liked

We’ve tested so many personal item bags across multiple tests that we have a few more we can recommend, although they had some issues that kept them from earning perfect scores.

Herschel Classic Backpack XL : We liked this bag because it’s very spacious with a 30-liter capacity. However, there weren’t many pockets so keeping your things organized isn’t really an option, unless you add travel pouches . 

Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote : We’ve taken this on business and personal trips alike, and it always gets the job done in style. It fits plenty of stuff, but truthfully, it’s a little big — and the fact that it doesn’t fully zip closed at the top makes us slightly nervous when stowing it under the seat in front of us. 

Monos Metro Duffel : This sleek-looking bag has a ton of pockets including a removable pouch, which we appreciated. It’s also heavier than it looks despite its small size, and the zippers didn’t run quite as smoothly as others on our list. 

Bravado Hospital Tote : This bag impressed us with its spacious interior that fit everything on our packing list, plus several baby-specific items including bottles, diapers, clothing, and more. However, the placement of the shoulder strap attachment rings was awkward, causing the bag to fit extremely snug on our shoulders.

For this article, we thoroughly tested nearly 50 personal item bags both in our New York City lab and out in the real world to determine the best options. We then included the picks we loved the most in this article. 

We first examined the interior, exterior, and hardware materials of each bag, making note of elements that seemed to be of high quality. To accurately test the quality and capacity of each bag, we packed them full of various items for a two- or four-day trip depending on size, including dummy laptops, laptop and phone chargers, water bottles, shirts, pants, jackets, toiletry bags, underwear, socks, and shoes. While the type and number of items varied slightly between bag types (for example, more items fit in a weekender bag than a sling bag), the idea was to test each bag’s limits for its intended use to see how durable it was and how comfortable it was to carry. 

Once packed, we adjusted all straps and handles to ensure they fit us properly and walked around with them to see how they felt. We paid attention to pockets and storage features to see what seemed to improve organization or maximize space, and what didn’t. With the bags fully packed and zipped or snapped closed, we pushed each one off a counter several times at different angles to mimic rough travel conditions. We additionally stuffed some bags under mock airplane seats (or real ones for the bags we tested in a real-world setting) and lifted them into overhead bins to see how they fit and how they felt to lift. We also walked around with each packed bag for several minutes to see how comfortable it was to carry. We rolled wheeled suitcases through a cone obstacle course and over different surfaces to see how easy they were to maneuver. Following several lab and real-world tests over a period of six months, we collected insights and will continue to update this article to reflect our findings.

Tips for Buying a Personal Item Bags

Know your airline’s size requirements .

The majority of domestic airlines allow personal item bags up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches, but it does vary slightly between airlines , so check yours specifically before your flight. It’s also worth noting that some slightly larger bags may be allowed if they’re soft and unstructured — as long as they can squish down to a size that fits under the seat in front of you.

Factor in your desired space and built-in organization

Have a purse or other bag you love? Use a personal item that’s similar to it. If you carry a lot of small items with you (like makeup products, lip balm, earbuds, keys, etc.), you’ll likely enjoy a pick that has plenty of pockets and organizational features. If you plan on simply stowing a few larger items like a book and a water bottle in your bag, something with a spacious main compartment and less pockets will be ideal.

Decide what carrying style works best for you 

Pretty much any type of bag can be a personal item on a plane as long as it fits under the seat in front of you. All you have to do is choose the style you're most comfortable carrying. If you’re a purse-user in your everyday life, you’ll probably be into totes, crossbodies, and small duffels. If you’re not used to carrying a bag over your shoulder, go for a backpack, a sling bag (which technically hangs over your shoulder, but wears more like a backpack), a fanny pack, an underseat spinner, or a bag with a trolley sleeve that you can easily attach to wheeled luggage.

Personal items are luggage items that fit underneath the seat in front of you on a plane. This can be a tote bag, a crossbody bag, a backpack, a duffel, or even a spinner if it’s small enough to fit.

Think of your personal item bag as an extension of your carry-on bag. You’ll want to pack things you might need during your flight, like your phone, laptop or tablet, device chargers, eyeglasses, medications, wallet, a book or magazine, and perhaps even skincare products. Just keep in mind that, as with carry-ons, any liquid items you pack in your personal item bag shouldn’t exceed 3.4 fluid ounces each.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin rounded up the best personal item bags based on tests performed by the T+L team in our New York City lab. Hillary herself travels multiple times each year so she knows what factors make a great (and not-so-great) personal item for a flight.

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12 Top Personal Item Bags & Underseat Luggage in 2024

As a steadfast minimalist one-bag traveler who avoids baggage fees like the plague, I’m pleased to share with you the best personal item bags of 2024.

I’ll admit it: I’m a bit frugal and curmudgeonly when it comes to paying extra for carry-on or checked luggage. The money I spend on my plane ticket should mark the end of my airline-related expenses, dang it.

To help you find the right bag, I’ve rigorously tested and reviewed a variety of backpacks, totes, shoulder bags, duffels, and rolling luggage so you don’t have to. And I stuck to upper-echelon brands like TOM BIHN, GORUCK, Matador, and Zpacks. There are no cheap knockoffs here.

This buyer’s guide will also discuss the features to consider and which bags will best match your style of traveling. Toward the end of this post, you’ll find a summary of permissible luggage sizes for various popular airlines.

Best Personal Item Bags of 2024

• Types of Personal Item-Sized Bags • Ultralight & Ultra-Efficient Backpack: Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25 • Full-Featured & Comfortable Backpack: TOM BIHN Techonaut 30 • Lightweight Packable Daypack: Matador Freerain22 • Camera + Tech + Electronics Pack: Lowepro Flipside BP 300 AW III • Durable & Functional Duffel: GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 2.0 • Minimalist Ultralight Duffel: UltraLiteSacks • High-End Personal Item Tote: Mission Workshop Drift • Tried-and-True Shoulder Bag: Timbuk2 Messenger • Ultimate Shoulder Sling: Peak Design Everyday Sling • Simple & Stylish Briefcase: TOM BIHN Daylight • Hard Cover Luggage with Wheels: Samsonite Novaire • Mini Rolling Soft Luggage: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside • Why I Travel with Only a Personal Item Bag • Factors We Consider When Choosing Products • Final Thoughts: Best Personal Item Bags of 2024

Types of Personal Item Sized Bags

Not all bags are the same. Not all travelers are the same. Each bag on this list has specific pros & cons to consider. Here are the most popular styles of underseat luggage:

I like to move nimbly when I travel, and a wheeled bag or duffel makes me less agile. I fit everything I need conveniently onto my back, so that’s how I roll. Backpacks make life on the go much more doable.

I understand some people can’t wear backpacks because of back pain or other health issues. Consider a duffel bag, tote, or wheeled suitcase instead if that’s the case.

Duffel bags are a great no-fuss solution to personal item-sized bag travel. A duffel is ideal when you need extra space to bring a few extra things outside your main luggage. They also help maximize your storage space compared to the other two options above.

A duffel can be slightly more annoying to carry than a backpack; however, you can fit a wider variety of stuff inside one since they’re reasonably malleable and fit into oddly shaped spaces (like beneath airplane seats).

I recently traveled to Vietnam for a month with only a messenger bag. I’d have chosen no bag at all if I didn’t need my laptop and other work essentials. I could fit my laptop, a change of clothes, and a few personal items in my messenger bag, but nothing else.

But not everyone is a minimalist travel junkie. Even so, if you still have an extra bag in addition to your carry-on, a messenger is a quality solution and should fit all the stuff you need during your flight.

We’ve included some top-shelf options for wheeled mini carry-on bags that’ll fit under the seat ahead of you. Soft- or hard-roller bags are best for those wanting more protection for their belongings or anyone who doesn’t want to carry a backpack or duffel bag for long periods.

If you’re flying frequently, however, a hard case may not be the best style of bag for you. A roller case is awkward to carry, and not every destination is roller luggage friendly. I’ve visited bustling locations where this luggage style simply wouldn’t work.

Ultra Lightweight Personal Item Backpack Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25

MSRP : $249 Capacity : 25L Weight : 10.7 oz

Zpacks is far and away my favorite ultralight minimalist gear brand, as they’re consistently raising the bar for lightweight and functional equipment. The Bagger ULTRA 25 is a backpack designed for fast and light trips, as it’s made from waterproof ULTRA fabric and weighs in at a minuscule 10.7 ounces.

This is my go-to travel backpack for trips I take without my bulky camera gear . For trips where I do bring my camera along, I use the slightly more spacious and well-padded TOM BIHN Techonaut 30, the following recommendation on this list. Between the two bags, I slightly prefer my Zpacks.

Thanks to its super durable, lightweight, and waterproof ULTRA material, the Bagger is perfect for ultralight gear nerds or anyone aiming to cut their pack weight and brave the elements. It’s an incredibly functional and versatile option for personal-item-sized bag travel, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Why We Like the Bagger ULTRA 25: It’s as lightweight a backpack as you’ll find at 25 liters. It’s completely waterproof, has dual water bottle holders, and is surprisingly comfortable to haul, considering its lightweight shoulder straps.

What to Keep in Mind: This isn’t the most visually appealing bag, and it’s not cheap either.

Full-Featured & Super Comfortable Backpack TOM BIHN Techonaut 30

MSRP : $392 Capacity : 30L Weight : 2 lb 9 oz

The TOM BIHN Techonaut 30 is a 30-liter backpack ideal for digital nomads like myself or for one-bag personal item travelers who crave the best gear. Made from high-quality, water-resistant materials, it features a padded back panel and cushy shoulder straps for maximum comfort. It can also be converted into a shoulder/duffel bag by purchasing an Absolute Shoulder Strap .

I love this bag’s isolated laptop compartment and the abundance of well-placed pockets that help keep travelers organized. It’s a well-balanced bag that’s effortless to wear, easy to adjust, and can haul significant weight comfortably thanks to its internal frame.

My one nitpick is its zippered water bottle pocket, which can get a bit tight when the bag is fully packed. I’d have preferred a more accessible pocket (or two) as you’ll find in the Bagger ULTRA, but I understand entirely TOM BIHN keeping to their sleek and zipped-up style. All in all, this is a heck of a bag.

Why We Like the Techonaut 30: It’s an incredibly versatile, comfortable, stylish, and functional bag that can also serve as a duffel. We think it’s the perfect pack to consider if you’re pondering becoming a one-bag traveler.

What to Keep in Mind: The nearly $400 price tag is high, but think of this bag as a decades-long travel investment.

Packable Daypack Matador Freerain22

MSRP : $100 Capacity : 22L Weight : 10.6 oz

The waterproof Freerain22 packable daypack from Matador has a tiny footprint when compressed and can be stashed away in your carry-on or checked luggage. It’s perfect for someone who needs space for extra items on the return trip and wants weatherproof protection when exploring.

Although small and lightweight, this bag packs a punch. Its 22-liter capacity is excellent for carrying all your necessities, whether in-flight or as an around-town daypack. It is, however, on the small side for single-bag travel, so look elsewhere if you’re only taking one bag.

Much like any other packable daypack, the Freerain22 forgoes padding on the back panel and shoulder straps to maximize its compression capabilities. No, this bag won’t be the most comfortable on the list, but it is the most packable.

Why We Like the Freerain22: This bag packs down very small and can function as a daypack or a vessel to haul around extra stuff you accumulate on the road. It’s completely waterproof and has an impressive set of features.

What to Keep in Mind: There is zero back padding, and the shoulder straps are thin mesh; this isn’t designed to be the most comfortable bag in the world.

Camera + Electronics + Tech Backpack Lowepro Flipside BP 300 AW III

MSRP : $179 Capacity : 27L Weight : 3 lb 3 oz

Depending on where and why I’m traveling, I like to keep my fragile gadgets close at hand. Cameras, lenses, chargers, laptops, and tablets all deserve a safe and secure home during my wanderings. If you pack expensive cameras and tech gear like me, look no further than this beauty.

Popular among photographers and videographers, the Lowepro Flipside BP 300 AW III keeps gear safe and snug without unnecessary frills that add to its size. Its padding is generous but not cumbersome, and its back panel zipper access to the main compartment is an unconventional yet effective feature.

For rare trips that require me to bring all of my cameras, lenses, and tripods, I’ll pack my tech gear in this bag and throw my clothes and other belongings in my Bagger ULTRA 25.

Why We Like the Flipside BP 300 AW III: From its smooth zippers to its ample (but not bulky) padding, we love every single feature on the Flipside. This is an extremely well-made bag that will thrive for photographers and videographers.

What to Keep in Mind: This pack’s main compartment is accessed through the back of the pack. For larger photography setups, consider a bigger bag (like the Flipside 500 AW II ).

Durable & Functional Duffel Bag GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 2.0

MSRP : $150 Capacity : 32L Weight : 2 lb 9 oz

Pro travelers who need more features than the UltraLiteSacks duffel listed below should check out the GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 2.0 for their next adventure. It’s a sturdy and practical piece that’ll thrive during your travels, everyday life, and anywhere between.

This duffel is made from burly 1000D Cordura nylon and sports three exterior and three interior zipper pockets (six total) to keep your gear organized and accessible during travel. It’s protected by a ‘You Break It, We Fix It’ guarantee, though it’s so durable, I doubt you’ll ever need it.

Though I don’t use my Aviator Kit Bag for one-bag travel (I definitely could), it has become my all-time favorite gym bag. It’s remarkably durable and has the perfect amount of internal storage to stash my beverages, shoes, protein powder, extra clothing, and other odds and ends. I love it so much that I’m actively seeking out my next piece of GORUCK gear.

Why We Like the Aviator Kit Bag 2.0: In terms of build quality, durability, functionality, and attention to detail, it doesn’t get much better than GORUCK. If you like traveling with a personal item duffel bag, this is the one for you.

What to Keep in Mind: GORUCK doesn’t offer free shipping, no matter how much money you spend.

Minimalist Ultralight Duffel Bag UltraLiteSacks

MSRP : $149 Capacity : 35L Weight : 11.4 oz

Like the Zpacks Bagger, the UltraLikeSacks duffel is made from space-age ULTRA fabric. And while this bag doesn’t offer all of the fancy features of the GORUCK duffel above, it’s still very functional for use as a carry-on or under-seat bag. It’ll thrive for those who need a lightweight duffel that can haul serious loads.

I’m visiting Japan next winter, and I plan to use this bag to pack all of my ski apparel — gloves, insulated pants, puffy jacket, collapsible poles, boots — and will slide it underneath the seat in front of me. Certain bags serve specific purposes in life, and this one’s calling is a gear hauler.

This is a no-frills duffel, which begs the question: why is it 150 bucks? Well, you’re paying for cutting-edge materials, impeccable attention to detail, and hand-made-in-the-USA build quality. This bag shouldn’t fray, tear, or explode when stuffing it, and it’s as lightweight and packable as you could ask for.

Why We Like the UltraLiteSacks Duffel: It’s just like our favorite ditty bag but jumbo-sized and fitted with handles and straps. It’s incredibly lightweight, fully waterproof, and will pack down into your main bag with ease.

What to Keep in Mind: With one main compartment and zero frills, this duffel is as minimalist as they come.

High-End Personal Item Tote Mission Workshop Drift

MSRP : $335 Capacity : 28L Weight : 2 lb 13 oz

What can I say? I’m a sucker for top-shelf products that are made in the U.S.A. Just like the Aviator Kit Bag I mentioned earlier, this functional tote from Mission Workshop offers second-to-none quality from a brand that keeps business in America and supports hard-working fabricators.

The Drift is tailor-made for professionals who demand performance from everything in life, including the bags they carry. This tote will stash away your electronics, clothes, travel necessities, and other fixings in its array of thoughtful pockets and sleeves.

Versatile totes like this can be carried like a briefcase, slung over your shoulder like a duffel, and (you guessed it) slide underneath the airplane seat in front of you. So, why not take all that money you’ll save on baggage fees and invest in a slick bag like this?

Why We Like the Drift: We’re gear snobs who value attention to detail and handmade products from high-end materials; this bag checks all the boxes for us. It’s a technical work of art and will last for a very long time.

What to Keep in Mind: It’s pretty expensive, but just like the TOM BIHN Techonaut , you’re getting an exceptional bag that’s made in America.

Tried-and-True Shoulder Bag Timbuk2 Messenger Bag

MSRP : $129 Capacity : 25L Weight : 1 lb 11 oz

I considered traveling “bagless” on a recent trip to Vietnam, but I still needed something to hold my laptop and carry-on items. I purchased a cheap knockoff messenger bag and quickly regretted not grabbing this Timbuk2 instead.

I won’t name names, but the knockoff bag was frumpy and dug painfully into my shoulder. Reviews of the Timbuk2 Messenger told a different story, however: It’s comfy to wear, looks fantastic, and puts a little extra glide in your stride. It pays to buy quality.

Those who travel frequently for work would find a messenger bag like this perfect for hauling their laptop, tablet, cords, chargers, and other mobile office essentials. Pair it with a well-packed overhead carry-on, and you’ll be in great shape.

Why We Like the Timbuk2 Messenger Bag: It comes in a variety of different sizes and colors, so you can pick the perfect match to suit your travel style. It’s reasonably priced, weather-resistant, and has top-notch internal organization.

What to Keep in Mind: It’s hard to find any nitpicks with this bag!

Ultimate Shoulder Sling Peak Design Everyday Sling

MSRP : $120 Capacity : 6L Weight : 1 lb 3 oz

Being a minimalist and writing about minimalist gear can be challenging. Not wanting to be weighed down by my possessions is constantly at odds with all the nifty minimalist gadgets and gear I found while researching these articles.

That rings especially true with this shoulder sling from Peak Design. The Everyday Sling is a sleek and stylish shoulder sling that keeps your EDC essentials and valuables close at hand, safe from the elements, and sitting comfortably on the small of your back.

Savvy travelers could wear the Everyday Sling around their waist and rock a personal item sized backpack as they board their flight to avoid baggage fees. Why not try? Doing so could add a few extra liters of storage to your minimalist packing setup.

Why We Like the Everyday Sling: We lug mirrorless cameras around when we travel, so we appreciate products that protect our expensive gear. This rock-solid crossbody sling comes in three sizes and is protected by a lifetime warranty.

What to Keep in Mind: At six liters, this is the smallest bag on this list. Don’t expect it to hold much more than a camera, tablet, snacks, and other small travel essentials.

Simple & Stylish Briefcase TOM BIHN Daylight

MSRP : $93 Capacity : 8L Weight : 12.7 oz

TOM BIHN makes its second appearance on this list of the best personal item bags for 2024. That’s because the Daylight is a well-designed and functional briefcase suitable for travel, work, and trips to the coffee shop.

The Daylight’s main compartment and multiple organizing pockets keep your businessy stuff exactly where you need it. With comfy straps, well-placed pockets, and a lightweight design, you’ll glide around airports with ease.

Much like the Timbuk2 Messenger Bag, I’d recommend the Daylight for digital nomads and those who embark on frequent work trips. Pair it with one of TOM BIHN’s exceptional carry-on travel backpacks if you’re feeling especially frisky.

Why We Like the Daylight: What’s not to love? We’re big TOM BIHN fans, and this bag highlights their commitment to practical, well-made travel gear. It’ll work great for coffee shop hopping with your laptop, tablet, headphones, and other essentials.

What to Keep in Mind: At the time of writing this, the Daylight is unfortunately out of stock. Sign up to get notified when it’s available again.

Hard Cover Luggage with Wheels Samsonite Novaire Wheeled Underseater

MSRP : $220 Capacity : Not listed Weight : 6 lb 12 oz

Do you need extra protection for your belongings or have trouble carrying backpacks or shoulder bags? If so, a classic roller bag might be the solution. This Samsonite Novaire Wheeled Underseater is a shining example of mobile hardside style.

It has all the classic design features of a roller carry-on, but it’s minified. The Novaire fits under most airline seats while taking full advantage of every last square inch allowed by travel regulations. Yeah, it’s a bit like a tiny tank, but that can be a good thing on the road.

Because it’s sturdy, rigid, and has wheels, you will sacrifice some space inside the bag to adhere to personal item dimensions requirements. That said, it’ll work wonders for those who don’t want the strain of a backpack, duffel, or messenger bag.

Why We Like the Novaire: Wheeled underseat luggage is hard to come by, but Samsonite has executed it well. This bag has integrated USB ports, a feature you won’t find on any other bag on this list.

What to Keep in Mind: At 6.8 pounds, this is the heaviest bag on the list (and it’s also the most rigid). It might be a tight squeeze under the seat in front of you when fully packed.

Mini Rolling Luggage Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside

MSRP : $170 Capacity : 26L Weight : 5 lb 8 oz

Like the Samsonite above, many people choose this style of roll-around bag because it’s often more convenient and comfy than totes, backpacks, and duffels that hang off the body. But unlike the rigid Novaire, the Maxlite 5 is soft-sided and can be shaped and flattened as needed.

Despite its soft sides, the TravelPro Maxlite still offers plenty of protection. It comes in a compact, 5-pound version that slides easily under airline seats and a spacious 9-pound model that should trigger gate fees on many airlines. Choose your size carefully.

If I were torn between the hard-sided Samsonite and the soft-sided Travelpro, I’d lean towards the latter. As long as you don’t absolutely beat up your bag, hard-sided carry-on luggage can be a bit overkill. Oh, and did I mention the soft-sided roller is half the price?

Why We Like the Maxlite 5 Softside: Assuming you don’t overpack it, the Maxlite 5 Softside should fit like a glove underneath the seat in front of you. It’s well-reviewed, priced to sell, and backed by a lifetime warranty.

What to Keep in Mind: Like the Samsonite above, this bag will be a bit heavier and bulkier than a backpack, messenger bag, tote, or duffel.

Why I Travel With Only a Personal Item Sized Bag

I choose to travel with less. Less stuff means less weight dragging me down. That makes it easier to navigate crowded airports or to flag down my Uber. I shudder at the sight of folks pulling their entire wardrobe around in a 50+ pound monstrosity on wheels.

What’s the secret of being a light and nimble traveler? Bring. Less. Stuff. Obvious, yes, but packing light isn’t always easy to execute. Years ago, I could be seen lugging around an 80-liter behemoth, but eventually, I embraced a minimalist lifestyle, and everything fell into place. I recently returned from Europe after six weeks carrying only a 25-liter personal item bag.

I now save significant time and money by never paying gate fees for a bag. I use the extra cash to treat myself to better meals and memorable travel experiences. And I don’t miss the time I used to waste chasing lost baggage or standing shoulder-to-shoulder around the luggage carousel, hoping my bag would emerge in one piece.

The ‘secret’ of being a nimble traveler is to always avoid checking your luggage. Commit to fitting everything you need in your overhead compartment bag or the personal item bag by your feet. “Easier said than done,” you may say, but try it the next time you fly. It’s liberating.

Factors We Considered When Choosing Products

What qualifies a bag for our ‘best of’ list? After getting our hands on several products, putting them through their paces, scouring numerous forums, product reviews, and videos, we decided to use the following criteria:

Size & Dimensions

First and foremost, carry-on bags must fit in the space regulations allow. Specifically, a “personal items” handbag, backpack, or purse must fit under the seat in front of you, not in the overhead bin.

Some budget airlines measure your bag at the gate by testing whether it fits inside an official sizing slot. If it doesn’t fit, your only options are to pay a hefty gate fee to bring it or to leave the bag behind.

Here are the maximum allowed sizes for personal item bags for airlines that charge for a carry-on:

• Frontier : 18” x 14” x 8”
• Spirit : 18” x 14” x 8”
• United : 17” x 10” x 9”
• JetBlue : 17” x 13” x 8”
• Allegiant : 16” x 15” x 7”
• Norwegian : 15” x 12” x 8”
• Wizz Air : 16” x 12” x 8”
• Ryanair : 16” x 10” x 8”
• Easyjet : 18” x 14” x 8”

Note: Before you travel, confirm the current allowed sizes for the airline(s) you’ll be using. Specifications and policies sometimes change. The folks at NerdWallet created this useful policy guide  if you have more questions. 

Airlines that don’t charge for carry-ons are a bit more lenient towards the size of your item as long as it fits under the seat ahead of you. For these airlines, having a carry-on and a personal item is convenient because it may give you just enough cargo space to prevent the need to check a bag.

Consider the weight of your empty bag. The less your empty bag weighs, the less it contributes to the overall weight you’ll handle as you travel. Your feet and shoulders must endure every extra ounce or pound you drag around the globe, so put your luggage on a diet and leave your barbells at home.

Materials/Durability

A bag is only as good as its components. That’s why I picked bags made from proven backpack fabrics that will withstand abuse. I also preferred double-stitching, YKK zippers, and heavy-duty puncture-resistant fabrics.

The most durable bags on this list are the TOM BIHN Techonaut, the GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 2.0, and the Samsonite Novaire Underseater. The least durable bags are the Matador Freerain22, UltraLiteSacks duffel, and the TOM BIHN Daylight briefcase.

 Weather Resistance

I’ve dragged my stuff through a blizzard in Detroit, a downpour in Budapest, and a sandstorm in Africa. At the very least, choose a bag rated as water- and weather-resistant. And even with a sturdy bag, I still sometimes wrap some of my more delicate stuff in a plastic bag before it goes into the luggage.

The best bags provide more peace of mind. The savings from buying a flimsy knockoff bag vanish as soon as that cheap bag splits open halfway around the world, and you have to replace it. Travel light, but always bring the peace of mind that comes from spending a bit more to get a higher-quality product.

Which Underseat Travel Bag is Best for You in 2024?

It’s your turn to decide on one of these best personal item travel bags for 2024. Will it be an ultra-lightweight and efficient backpack from Zpacks ? A simple and stylish briefcase from TOM BIHN ? A futuristic tote from Mission Workshop ? Choose carefully because whatever you choose will be your joined-at-the-hip travel companion for the next few thousand miles.

And remember: when traveling, it’s best to avoid nasty surprises. Do your research and only buy bags that will fit comfortably in the sizing slots of the airlines you actually use. And travel light. Surprise yourself with how little ‘stuff’ it takes to travel comfortably.

Finally, combine the money you save by avoiding luggage gate fees with the time you save by skipping the luggage carousels and treat yourself by splurging on the good stuff the next time you travel.

Please let us know if you’ve enjoyed this list of the best personal item underseat bags for 2024 by sharing your comments below. We wish you wheels up and calm, clear skies.

Last Updated on April 2, 2024

Noel Krasomil

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.

Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best personal item bags, tested & reviewed.

Find your best carry-on companion with our top editor picks.

The Best Personal Item Bags

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

When you're traveling on an airplane, there are certain items like your wallet, phone, passport, medications and earbuds that you always want to keep close. These are the items you'll want to pack in your personal item bag, along with other in-flight comfort items or perhaps a few souvenirs you're bringing home with you. When it comes to a personal item, there are many options that could be right for you, though keep in mind what airlines will allow can vary.

What size is a personal item bag?

This item can be a purse , bag or backpack that easily fits under the seat in front of you. For most domestic airlines, your personal item should be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag that goes into the overhead bin and one personal item bag that can be stowed under the seat. For both carry-on and personal item bags, it's important to check your airline's carry-on luggage size requirements and policies.

To help you decide what personal item bag meets your needs, our editors shared their go-to bags they personally use when traveling by air.

Best Foldable: Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hip Pack: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Best tote: everlane the recycled nylon tote, best backpack: away the everywhere zip backpack, best organization: nomad lane bento bag, best washable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best laptop backpack: fila argus 5 laptop backpack, best for adventure travel: osprey nebula 32, best affordable: gorilla wear duncan backpack, best duffel: lipault city plume 24h bag 2.0.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of personal item bags are height by width by depth.)

Nicola Wood | U.S. News

Price: $155 or less

Travelers will frequently spot this classic tote at airports and hotels around the world for good reason. It folds up easily for storage when not in use, and it has a roomy main compartment with a small interior pocket for a phone, boarding pass and a cardholder. Longchamp's Le Pliage Large tote is made of the brand's durable water-resistant nylon and finished with its signature embossed leather trim.

What our editors say:

I love traveling with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote. It's big enough to hold a laptop and all other essentials, and it has both a zipper and a snap-close leather flap, so you won't have to worry about anything falling out during travel. It is versatile enough to use throughout your vacation as a handbag, or you can fold it up and store it away once you reach your destination. The Le Pliage tote is made of nylon, so it is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean after traveling. There is a small interior pocket that can hold a boarding pass, phone or cardholder, or you can pop in a separate organizer from Amazon for multiple interior compartments. The Le Pliage tote comes in a variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $30 or less

If you're looking to travel light and maximize leg space, this Cotopaxi hip pack is ideal. Strap it around your waist or shoulder for hands-free travel, and reach your wallet or passport quickly. There's a spacious main compartment for your phone, wallet and boarding pass. Plus, a front zippered compartment can hold things like gum or earbuds. Constructed of 100% fabric scraps, each hip pack is sustainable and one-of-a-kind.

My top priority when traveling by plane is ample leg room, so Cotopaxi fanny packs are the perfect under-the-seat choice. I like the smaller Kapai 1.5 L Hip Pack for storing my essentials on shorter flights: phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm and earbuds. (There's also a 3L version .) For longer flights, the larger Allpa X 4L Hip Pack can fit a lot more, including a small book, Nintendo Switch and snack. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $85 or less

This versatile tote is constructed with recycled nylon, which makes it easy to clean as well as sustainable. The padded bottom helps to protect your laptop and other contents. The main compartment has a zippered pocket and a 13-inch laptop sleeve. You can carry the bag with its tote straps or over the shoulder, and there's an exterior slip pocket for small items.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it's structured, but also easily pliable when it's time to stow it underneath my seat. The exterior pocket allows for easy access to small items like earbuds and hand sanitizer, and the larger main compartment is roomy enough for my laptop, 32-ounce water bottle, snacks, a small toiletry bag and a book. I also appreciate its sleek simplicity and sustainable materials. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $195 or less

This backpack from Away has a variety of interior and exterior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve with a magnetic locking zipper, an interior mesh pocket for a small water bottle and two external hidden pockets. It has a versatile design that works for trips to the office, day tours and leisure trips. For carrying options, the backpack has comfortable padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve to secure it to your favorite carry-on bag.

For my personal item, I'm all about function over fashion and this bag manages to hit both marks. I especially love the interior key clip – I actually use it for my wallet so I easily find my ID and credit card and not risk losing them. – Amanda Norcross , Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $298 or less

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag has a sleek and professional look that makes it work for both personal and business travel, especially with the 16-inch padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the top. It comes with a toiletries pouch and an electronics organizer that tuck inside two exterior pockets, so you can easily remove them at security. The bag has a variety of organizational pockets, including a trolley sleeve that converts into a pocket. It works well as a personal item bag, and can be used as a weekender bag if you're a light packer.

The Bento Bag is truly exceptional for organization. Not only can it fit a ton for its size, but I love how it also keeps my belongings separated and neat while still easy to access on the go. When I travel with it, the bag is comfortable to carry and fits under the seat in front of me with no issue. I also just appreciate how sophisticated it looks. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

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Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

This timeless design has sturdy straps to comfortably carry the bag through airports and more. It's affordable, durable and machine washable. The interior compartment can accommodate everything from a toiletry bag to souvenirs, yet it still fits under the seat with a comfortable amount of room for your feet.

I've used this Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag as my personal item for years. I love the soft-sided design of this bag and it can fit an impressive amount. There's also an interior zippered pocket and two smaller open pockets for organization. Typically, I'll pack my laptop, various chargers, one to two books, an extra set of clothes and shoes, my wallet, my makeup bag, AirPods, snacks, a water bottle, and my phone. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Suzanne Mason | U.S. News

Price: $70 or less

Perfect as a work, gym or travel bag, this durable backpack has multiple pockets to keep everything organized wherever you roam. The budget-friendly backpack has a spacious main compartment with an internal mesh pocket and a separate 15-inch laptop compartment. Its padded straps provide comfort while carrying the bag for long periods of time, and the front zippered compartment is ideal for a boarding pass, pen or phone.

I love my Fila Argus 5 Laptop Backpack. I use it for both travel and for work. The backpack has a pocket in the back separating the main space in the back. I usually carry my iPad or laptop there and use the rest of the space to carry any items I couldn't fit in my luggage or trinkets that I'm bringing back for souvenirs. The front pocket I love because it's a zippered space where I can put my important traveling documents and other miscellaneous items needed for my travels. The backpack straps are wide and padded making it comfortable to wear on my back. The backpack is small enough to fit under a plane seat if you need to access the bag while in flight. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

Zach Watson | U.S. News

Price: $140 or less

This spacious backpack offers the design features of a more technical backpack − like a removable webbing belt along with top and bottom compression straps − but with an emphasis on everyday needs. There are numerous interior pockets to keep all of your travel essentials securely stowed, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve and a front zippered organization pocket. The exterior has two deep, adjustable side pockets that can fit two Nalgene-size water bottles. The Osprey Nebula 32 features two padded straps and a breathable back to help make carrying the bag more comfortable, even in humid climates.

My Osprey Nebula 32 is in the running for my oldest personal possession; I've used it for over a decade. That means this Nebula pack started as a college backpack, lugging my textbooks between classes in Chicago snowstorms before joining me in Washington, D.C., where it kept my belongings safe on my humid (and occasionally rainy) bike commutes. Now, I primarily use my backpack for hiking and flying, and it still holds up remarkably well despite my regular mistreatment. I don't intend to replace my go-to personal item anytime soon, so this Osprey backpack has absolutely justified its admittedly high upfront cost. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Alissa Grisler | U.S. News

Price: $59.99 or less

Durable and ideal for everyday use or adventures afar, this backpack has a simple design with plenty of packing space. The spacious interior can hold a lot, including your toiletry bag, reading material, change of clothes and more. The laptop sleeve and variety of compartments help to keep items organized and in place. The exterior offers adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for comfort, a headphone opening, two mesh pockets and a front zippered compartment.

When purchasing a bag, I am looking for something that is durable and multifunctional. With its many storage compartments and large carrying capacity (perfect for the chronic over-packer or anyone who just can't say no to a souvenir), this bag is perfect for both travel and everyday use. – Alissa Grisler , Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $135 or less

Lightweight and constructed with water repellent nylon, this bag is durable, yet sophisticated. There are two large front pockets for smaller items like a 3-1-1 bag, headphones, wipes and small travel essentials, plus a side pocket for a water bottle or small items. Inside, the spacious interior compartment has a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets and a mesh pocket for keeping things organized, in addition to room for a toiletry bag, in-flight needs and souvenirs you find along the way. The bag features a separate zippered laptop compartment on the back, along with a trolley sleeve to attach it to your carry-on bag, like the coordinating Plume Cabin Size Spinner . What's more, it folds flat to save space when not in use.

I bought my original Lipault City Plume bag for my first trip to Europe over a decade ago. It's been a top pick for my travels for years, and it still looks and works great. The updated City Plume 24H Bag 2.0 is beautifully constructed, stays looking great even through the rigors of travel, fits perfectly under the seat and holds a lot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood strives to be a carry-on only traveler. Over the years she's tested a variety of bags from multiple brands at an array of prices. To curate this article, she asked her team of editors to share their favorite personal item bags that have worked for all types of travel scenarios.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Checked Luggage, Tested by Editors
• The Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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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.

22 Best personal carry-on bags according to travel bloggers

by Anne Betts | Aug 2, 2023 | Luggage and Packing | 3 comments

Updated August 2, 2023

Most carry-on travellers have two bags. Their personal item is stashed under the seat in front while their standard carry-on bag is stowed in the overhead locker. For insights on the best personal carry-on bags , I reached out to travel bloggers. What follows is an eclectic collection of 22 tried-and-true bags in the 15 to 30-litre range that could qualify as a personal carry-on item.

For recommendations from travel bloggers on standard carry-on bags, see:

The best standard carry-on bags according to travel bloggers

What is a personal item?

The personal bag carries what’s needed for a comfortable flight without any need to access the standard item. A personal item earns its keep if it can work as a day bag at the destination.

A personal item can be a handbag, backpack, camera bag, or computer case. Like a standard carry-on, a personal carry-on needs to meet an airline’s size and weight restrictions, where they exist. As a guideline, a personal item shouldn’t exceed 45 x 35 x 20 cm / 18 x 14 x 8 in. The most important characteristic is that it needs to fit under the seat in front. Some airlines have no restrictions on the weight of a personal item.

For dedicated one-baggers, their one and only bag is both a standard and personal item. For others who favour one-bag travel, they might have a small packable bag that can be packed away in the main bag after the flight and later used as a day bag at the destination. Photographers and digital nomads with a considerable amount of camera equipment and electronics have made specialty bags work as a personal item. The same applies to hikers and cyclists who use a bag designed for hiking or cycling as their personal carry-on.

Table of Contents

1. NEATPACK VERSATILE CANVAS SLING BAG (15L)

2. osprey farpoint 55 / 70 detachable day pack (15l), 3. fjällräven kånken classic (16l), 4. osprey ultralight stuff pack (17l), 5. away front pocket backpack (17l), 6. solgaard lifepack backpack (18l), 7. tom bihn synapse 19, 8. cabin max metz stowaway 20l, 9. travel hack backpack (20l), 10. deuter women’s trail 20 sl hiking pack, 11. arcido vaga day pack (20l), 12. osprey ultralight dry stuff pack, 13. quechua mh500 20l, 14. wandrd prvke 21l, 15. nordace siena (23l), 16. biaggi zipsak backpack (~23l) , 17. sea to sky 24l pack, 18. deuter trans alpine 24 (24l), 19. lowepro fastpack pro (25l), 20. herschel little america classic (25l), 21. able carry daybreaker 25, 22. patagonia arbor lid pack 28l, 22 best personal carry-on bags.

• Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 4 in / 47 x 32 x 10 cm
• Weight: 408 g / 14.4 oz.
• Volume: 15 litres

A sling bag offers some of the best features of a crossbody purse and a backpack. Like many backpacks, a sling bag tends to have a roomy main compartment and a water bottle holder. Unlike a backpack, the bag doesn’t need to be removed to access anything inside. Like many purses, it can be worn in front, and features internal organization to keep items secure.

• Between the four compartments and two external pockets, the NeatPack Versatile Canvas Sling Bag holds a lot of stuff.
• Aligned with the triangular shape of the bag, the water bottle pocket has a toggle strap that can be cinched to keep a water bottle in place. Depending on the size of the water bottle there may be enough room to include a travel umbrella.
• The external pocket on the strap is large enough for sunglasses or a phone. There’s a slotted grommet on the pocket for the cords of wired headphones.
• The compartment that rests against the body has RFID-blocking capabilities so it’s ideal for a slim wallet, passport sleeve, and a phone.
• In the roomy main compartment is a laptop/tablet sleeve with elasticized trim. It’s rated to accommodate a 12-inch device. There’s no other internal organization in the main compartment so it’s perfect for clothing layers, small first-aid kit, pocket shopping bag, and other travel essentials.
• The other two compartments are much smaller and can hold a pocket camera, keys, small flashlight, pen, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and small miscellaneous items.
• The metal D-rings at the base permit easy changeover of the strap from one shoulder to the other.
• The loop at the top is convenient for hanging the bag on a hook.

SHORTCOMINGS

• The pocket on the shoulder strap is a good size but it should be able to slide along the shoulder strap so it can be correctly positioned when the bag is worn in different ways.
• The fabric isn’t waterproof; however, its water-repellent properties mean the contents stay dry in periods of light rain.

Anne Betts is a dedicated carry-on traveller who blogs at Packing Light Travel. Is a sling bag a good travel bag provides  more information on sling bags and a detailed review of the NeatPack.

• Dimensions: 10 x 17.5 in / 25 x 44 cm
• Weight: 1.3 lb / 590 g

The Osprey Farpoint Day Pack is a removable backpack that comes attached to the Osprey Farpoint 55-litre and 70-litre travel bags. It has several small, useful pockets, a padded sleeve to protect a laptop, and a padded zippered pocket that will keep smaller electronics secure. Keys can be attached to the conveniently located key ring. A scratch-free stash pocket protects eyewear. Two external mesh pockets accommodate one-litre or smaller water bottles; Nalgene one-litre bottles fit perfectly by design. This bag zips neatly to the main bag but can be easily detached to slide under the seat in front on a plane.

• It’s lightweight and perfectly sized: small enough not to be cumbersome but large enough to hold a day’s worth of essentials.
• Breathable mesh backing and padded straps make for a comfortable carry.
• The sternum strap prevents the shoulder straps from slipping or shifting.
• The zipper has a lockable closure to prevent pickpocketing or pilfering if sleeping in hostels or dozing off in other public areas.
• It comes with a lifetime unlimited warranty.
• It is difficult to remove and return a water bottle or other items into the two water bottle pockets when the main compartment is full.

Kaidon Nickel and Natasha Karcz blog at Planes, Trains, and Karcz

• Dimensions: 5.1 x 10.61 x 15 in / 38 x 27 x 13 cm
• Weight 300 g / 10.6 oz
• Volume: 16 litres

The Fjällräven Kånken Classic backpack is lightweight and durable. It’s simple yet recognizable, and this combination makes it appealing to a wide audience.

• The Fjällräven Kånken was designed as a school bag. While only 16 litres, the boxy rectangular shape makes the bag ideal for carrying a laptop, binder, and A4-sized notebooks and folders. However, it also works well as a carry-on personal item and travel day pack.
• The lightweight wax-like Vinylon F fabric is both water and dirt resistant. There are over 50 colours to choose from, including darker shades that obscure dirt and stains.
• The roomy main compartment and outside front pocket have zippers protected by rain flaps. The double zipper on the main compartment extends almost to the base of the bag, allowing it to be opened clamshell style.
• Within the main compartment is a small pocket to insert a name tag, and an open pocket with a thin piece of foam that can be removed and used as a seat pad. When carried as a backpack, the seat pad provides extra padding for the wearer.
• The two open side pockets can accommodate a water bottle, travel umbrella, or smaller objects.
• There aren’t many compartments for internal organization.
• Fjällräven Kånken is not machine washable. In fact, it loses its colour and structure if it’s laundered in a washing machine.

Una is a blogger at Wandernity . Check out her  Fjällräven Kånken Classic backpack review  after four years of using the backpack for travel, work, and everything in between.

• Dimensions: 43 x 23 x 18 cm / 17 x 9 x 7 in
• Weight: 113 g / 4 oz
• Volume: 17 litres

About the size of a fist in its stuff sack, the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack works well as personal carry-on bag while in transit and a day bag while exploring a destination. At other times, the minimalist design means it’s small enough to ‘nest’ inside a main travel bag. Where every gram or ounce counts, it’s a good choice as a second bag for travellers who are working with stringent carry-on requirements.

• It’s well built with reliable YKK zippers and 40 Denier ripstop nylon, and like other Osprey products, it’s protected by Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee .
• There are two compartments. The top compartment is a stash pocket with a handy security clip for tethering small objects such as keys or a pouch containing a phone. The large main compartment is dual zippered.
• The dual zippers on the main compartment and the single zipper on the top compartment have Osprey pulls. The three zippers can be lined up for attaching a lock, cable, or clip to deter pickpockets.   
• A stretch mesh external side pocket is large enough for a water bottle and travel umbrella.
• It’s not possible to lose the stuff sack; it’s integrated in the top stash pocket.
• The mesh straps are adjustable and if the pack isn’t overloaded, they’re surprisingly comfortable.
• It comes in a range of bright and neutral colours.

• The minimalist design means compromises such as very little internal organization, no sternum strap or hip belt, and minimal padding on the shoulder straps. Zero organization in the main compartment can be overcome with packing cubes.
• Just one external side pocket containing a full water bottle may contribute to an unbalanced carry. A tall skinny water bottle may slip out when bending over.  

Anne Betts is a dedicated carry-on traveller who blogs at Packing Light Travel. Check out  Is the Osprey warranty any good? It’s so good, I’m now a customer for life that describes an experience that tested Osprey’s unlimited warranty.

• Dimensions: 30 x 15 x 39 cm / 11.8 x 5.9 x 15.3 in
• Weight: 1 kg / 2.2 lb
• Volume: 17 litres
• The Away Front Pocket Backpack is a sleek, lightweight bag that fits way more than it seems at first glance.
• A trolley sleeve allows the bag to slide easily over the handle of rolling luggage.
• It has many organizational features with several pockets and compartments for storing travel essentials.
• Near the trolley sleeve is a hidden pocket that is large enough for a wallet, passport, financial cards, identification, or similar documents requiring extra security.
• The namesake front pocket has a few organizational features including a pen holder, small open pocket, detachable leather key leash, and space for smaller items such as tissues, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and items requiring less security.
• The full wraparound two-zipper feature allows the spacious main compartment to be opened bucket style. This space has several pockets including a padded sleeve for a tablet, mesh pocket for a water bottle, open pockets for packing organizers containing chargers, comfort items, sunglasses, phone, earbuds, or snacks, and an open area for a lightweight rain jacket or a discarded layer of clothing.
• Behind the main compartment is a padded 15″ laptop pocket for a laptop and a drop pocket for a tablet. The magnetic locking zipper offers extra security.
• The harness system consists of adjustable shoulder straps and a breathable mesh back panel. 
• An outside pocket for a water bottle could be more secure in case of leakage.
• The colour selection is limited.
• It’s expensive, but boasts many features not found in cheaper backpacks of a similar size.

Keri Baugh is a family travel blogger who blogs at Bon Voyage with Kids .

• Dimensions: 11.6 x 18.5 x 7 in / 29.5 x 47 x 17.8 cm
• Weight: 4 lb / 1.81 kg
• Volume: 18 litres

The Solgaard Lifepack Backpack is a solar-powered, anti-theft bag designed to be an all-in-one carry-on solution. There are separate compartments for electronics and clothing for staying organized, protecting belongings, and charging devices while on the move.

LIKES 

• The fabric is made from upcycled plastic.
• With the adjustable shoulder straps, the bag fits a variety of body types. The plush shoulder straps with back support make it comfortable for wearing for long periods.
• Solgaard offers optional extras (Solarbank, Juicebox, and the Bluetooth speaker called the Solarbank Boombox).  The Solarbank can also be charged via a micro-USB cable by plugging into a wall outlet with USB charging capability.
• It has an integrated quick-access USB port in an outer pocket for charging devices.
• It’s designed to fit up to a 15″ laptop, but some 17″ laptops can be accommodated.
• The bag features a patented anti-theft lock with a stretchy coil design that resembles a miniature bike lock, and the zippers can be easily locked for additional security.
• A ‘suitcase seatbelt’ allows it to be attached to the handle of a rolling bag .
• There are lots of pockets for smaller items, including a hook for car keys. Four secret pockets hold passports, financial cards, or a transit card.
• Durable water-resistant vinyl lines the bottom, and the bag stands upright on its own.
• It’s not fully waterproof and doesn’t come with a rain cover.
• The exterior water bottle pocket is very small and doesn’t fit most bottles.
• Solgaard customer service is excellent but sometimes it takes a while to receive a response.

Brodi Cole is a full-time digital nomad and blogger at Our Offbeat Life . She travels full time with her family and offers international travel guides to adventurous families who want to explore the world.

• Dimensions: 29 x 41 x 20 cm / 1.4 x 16 x 7.9 in
• Weight: 708 g / 1 lb 9 oz (400 Denier Halcyon/420 Denier ripstop nylon); 752 g / 1 lb 11 oz (525 Denier Ballistic)
• Volume: 19 litres

Tom Bihn has attracted a band of loyal customers of its well-designed and high-quality bags and accessories produced in Seattle, USA. The older Synapse 19 (and the larger Synapse 25) backpacks have been joined by the Synik 22 and Synik 30 that incorporate additional design elements for larger laptops and feature a full clamshell opening of the main compartment.

• The Synapse 19 is a paragon of organization with a well-designed pocket system that holds an astounding amount of gear with excellent weight distribution.
• The curved, padded shoulder straps are robust enough to carry a heavy load. The adjustable sternum strap, removable waist belt, and padded foam-and-mesh back panel contribute to a comfortable carry.
• The large main compartment extends from the top to the bottom of the pack, accessed by dual YKK zippers. It has an open sleeve for a laptop.
• Complementing the large main compartment are five strategically placed zippered pockets.
• Unusual in a backpack is a zippered water bottle pocket in the centre of the bag. It’s large enough for a one-litre bottle that slides out easily and keeps the weight in the centre of the pack.
• A unique and appreciated feature, most pockets have plastic O-rings sewn into the seams for tethering packing cubes and valuables in packing organizers.
• Every zipper has a pull cord that can be lined up with other zipper cords and secured with a lightweight cable or carabiner to deter pickpockets.
• Tom Bihn describes the features of the Synapse 19 (and others) in detail. This is a refreshing contrast to the summaries of other bags that leave potential customers with lingering questions.

The Synapse 19 is expensive for a small backpack. While understandable given the quality of materials and workmanship, it’s not a budget-friendly option.  

Anne Betts is a dedicated carry-on traveller who blogs at Packing Light Travel .

• Weight: 0.5 kg / 1.1 lb
• Volume: 20 litres
• The Metz Stowaway meets the new, more stringent Ryanair rules for free under-seat cabin baggage.
• The suitcase-style opening permits packing much more than would be expected with such a small bag. There’s plenty of room for everything needed for a short trip, especially if compression packing cubes are part of the packing strategy. 
• Coralie and her son have used these bags dozens of times for short ‘carry-on-only’ breaks, enabling them to book cheap budget-airline fares.
• It looks smart, even after years of use.
• There are lots of pockets to help organise packing, and compression straps help compress what’s packed and create more space.
• It’s lightweight with comfortable padding and straps — perfect for getting on and off public transportation and wandering around a new destination.

There’s no external pocket suitable for a water bottle.

Coralie Thornton is the writer and photographer at  Grey Globetrotters  where she offers mature travellers practical travel advice and inspiration.

• Dimensions: 15.7 x 7.8 x 9.8in / 40 x 20 x 25cm
• Weight: 0.6kg / 21.1oz

The Travel Hack Backpack is a collaborative effort between Cabin Max and Monica, a frequent traveller and travel blogger from The Travel Hack. The functional, yet stylish bag meets the under-seat carry-on dimensions of the budget airline Ryanair, so it’s guaranteed to fly for free on their flights.

• There’s an expandable water bottle pocket, a padded laptop compartment (to fit up to 13-inch devices), a front pocket, side pocket, and a floating top pocket for items requiring easy access. Inside are two 3D mesh pockets.
• It opens fully like a suitcase.
• The shoulder straps and back panel are made from padded mesh so it’s comfortable to carry for long periods.
• The showerproof external shell has rose gold detailing and an eco-leather ID holder
• It works well as a personal item for flights, but the stylish design makes it a lovely versatile day bag, whether using it for a beach trip or wandering around a city.
• There’s a strap on the back so it can be slipped over the handle of rolling luggage.
• The backpack is now part of a larger Travel Hack range, so it can be paired with a matching suitcase destined for the overhead locker or a large tote bag.

As the internal pockets are located on the opening, you do need to leave space in the main compartment to be able to shut the backpack. Alternatively, only fill them with small items, rather than completely filling them.

Kylie is a dedicated carry-on traveller who blogs about outdoor adventures at  Between England and Everywhere . Check out  Travel Hack Backpack Review , for her detailed review.

• Dimensions: 54 x 28 x 18 cm / 19.7 x 9.45 x 7.9 in
• Weight: 1.02 kg / 2.65 lb

The Deuter Women’s Trail 20 SL Hiking Pack is an excellent choice for minimalist travellers who want a reliable carry-on bag that doubles as a hiking pack. The carrying system in the SL model is somewhat shorter than the standard Deuter packs as it’s adapted to the female anatomy.

• The pack is very comfortable to carry, with adjustable sternum, shoulder, and load adjuster straps that help to effectively distribute the weight. The stowable, anatomically formed pull-forward hip fins hug the body while allowing for freedom of movement.
• It has excellent ventilation with contoured shoulder and hip straps with air-mesh lining, and an additional ventilation channel between the two Aircontact pads on the back panel.
• There are several loops and attachment points to hang various items, adding to its appeal as a hiking pack.
• It’s well organized with front panel access and two-way zippers on the main compartment to open the pack suitcase style. There’s an interior pocket for valuables, two side pockets, a wet pocket for damp items, a small lid pocket, and an ice/axe/walking pole holder, as well as an attachment point for a helmet. The rain cover is easily accessible, and the water bottle pocket can be reached without removing the pack.
• It accommodates a three-litre hydration bladder.
• It’s quite small for a winter destination requiring bulky winter clothing.

Giorgy blogs at G-Extreme Travel where she writes about her travels around the world with her beloved Deuter travelling companion.

• Dimensions: 50 X 34 X 15 cm / 20 X 14 X 6 in
• Weight: 600 g / 1 lb 5 oz

Arcido makes backpacks that look more professional than the typical backpacker style bags. The Arcidio Vaga Day Pack is made from durable material, it’s water resistant, and comes in a stylish grey colour. Arcido sells a laptop harness with a pull tab that can accommodate a 15.4” laptop or adjusted for smaller laptops or tablets.

• The classy grey colour is less flashy than the average brightly coloured backpack.
• The curved, padded shoulder straps are comfortable on the shoulders, especially when carrying heavier items. There’s a place to attach a sternum strap (purchased separately).
• The main compartment occupies the length of the bag and opens clamshell style. It’s large enough for anything that might be needed while out for the day, such as a jacket, snacks, or camera.
• It has two small pockets on the inside of the bag and a small external pocket at the top. These work well for smaller items like tissues, lip balm, or hand sanitizer that would otherwise get lost in the large compartment. The zippered external pocket is padded, making it a perfect place for sunglasses, a phone, or ear buds.
• It has good structure so even when it’s packed full, the bag stays slim and doesn’t bulge out.
• The Vaga is lightweight and designed to fit inside Arcido’s larger Akra 35L backpack. It doesn’t pack up as small as a stuff bag, but it can easily nest inside a larger bag. Though it’s designed to pair with the Akra, it could be packed flat in some other backpacks depending on the size.
• The handle on the top is a bit small, too small to grip with more than a couple of fingers and not large enough for some wall hooks.
• There are two outside pockets for water bottles, but they’re a bit small, and the material isn’t stretchy enough to keep them secure or accommodate larger water bottles.

Ali Garland is a full-time blogger at  Travel Made Simple   where she shares packing tips, layover advice, travel planning and itineraries, and more. Check out her review of the Arcido Vaga Day Pack.

• Weight: 194 g / 6.84 oz

The Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack is a lightweight, packable backpack, perfect for one-bag travel. It works well as a personal item and day bag, and its packability means it can nest inside another travel bag when necessary. It features one large interior compartment, a zippered front pocket with a small security pocket that is the built-in storage pouch, and two external side pockets.

• The zippered front pocket has an aqua-guard zipper and protective flap. It’s water resistant, not waterproof. However, anything packed inside the main compartment stays dry, even when the bag is submerged.
• It can be used as a day bag in all kinds of weather, and it doesn’t need a rain cover.  
• The roll and clip closure allows for the main compartment to be secured in two ways – at the top or the sides (the sides being my preference).
• Many water bottle pockets on minimalist bags aren’t secure enough to keep water bottles in place. The cinch straps are a much appreciated feature, making the side pockets more secure for water bottles or other items.
• It’s large enough to carry what’s needed for a day out and about.
• The height-adjustable sternum strap (with a whistle) helps keep the shoulder straps in place and makes for a more comfortable carry.
• There’s a handle at the top for hanging the bag on a hook, and several attachment points on the shoulder straps (and bottom of the bag) for carrying lightweight items.
• The small security pocket has a key clip and fabric hook for tethering a wallet or phone.   
• It’s a challenge (and takes practice) to fit the bag in its attached pouch/inside pocket.
• Dimensions: 60 x 30 x 20 cm / 24 x 11.8 x 7.9 in 
• Weight: 1.1 kg / 2.4 lb (S) 1.27 kg / 2.8 lb (L)
• Volume: 20 L

• Although the Quechua MH500 is tailored towards hikers, the bag is a good choice for packing light travellers. It’s well-made, sturdy, and built to last. Despite the costs of testing, research, and many attractive design elements, the price represents great value. Plus, it comes with a 10-year warranty.
• The mesh back and slits on the hip belt aid in ventilation, and padded straps promote comfort. Adjustable shoulder, sternum, hip, and load-lifter straps, and two thumb loops, enhance carrying comfort.
• The coated waterproof fabric and integrated rain cover offer protection during wet weather.  
• With the easy-to-open main compartment, packing is a breeze. There are nine pockets including two side pockets for water bottles, an inside sleeve for a laptop, an inside top pocket for smaller items, and accessible belt pockets for a phone, wallet, and passport.

The main compartment lacks internal organization except for the sleeve for a laptop or tablet, and one small, zippered pocket.

• Dimensions: 43 x 28 x 17 cm / 17 x 11 x 6.5 in
• Weight: 1.3 kg / 2.8 lb
• Volume : 21 L (25 L with the roll-top fully extended)

If the 21-litre bag is appealing, WANDRD has a 31-litre size, and the 41-litre version could work as a standard carryon for travellers with photography equipment and electronics.

• The WANDRD PRVKE 21L carry-on backpack comes with all the bells and whistles expected of a good travel bag. It provides comfort with padded waist straps, convenience with a key garage and accessory straps for external carry, and security with hidden passport and cash pockets.
• The PRVKE bag is perfect for commuters and digital nomads as it comes with two padded laptop and technology sleeves that can fit up to a 16-inch laptop and a tablet.
• For photographers, the WANDRD PRVKE backpack comes with an optional camera storage cube that fits up to one digital camera, a drone, and two lenses. It has padded and moveable cube walls for customization. For extra convenience, the bag has a camera quick-draw side access.
• For rainy days, the waterproof nylon material and weather-resistant zippers offer a measure of protection. And to take it up a notch, the PRVKE comes with a rain cover that stores easily at the base of the bag.
• The PRVKE is one of the very best durable yet stylish carry-on bags out there. Its sleek design, structured interior, and roll-down top for flexible storage make for a great bag for any type of traveller.

The waist straps are comfortable, yet they can be quite cumbersome when wearing the bag without buckling them up.

Haley Blackall is a full-time travel blogger, photographer, and digital nomad at Haley Blackall Travel . She provides detailed travel guides for millennial women while she slow travels the world.

• Dimensions: 29 x 16 x 42 cm / 16.54 x 11.4 x 6.3 in
• Weight: 1.03 / 2.2 lbs
• Volume: 23 litres
• An integrated power bank allows for charging a phone directly from the backpack.
• With a spacious main compartment and lots of little storage compartments for easy organization, it fits more than what might be expected at first glance.
• A fleece-lined pocket keeps sunglasses scratch-free and easily accessible.
• A padded sleeve protects a laptop (up to 15.6”), and smaller electronic devices such as tablet and phone.
• An external anti-theft pocket is hidden from view as it sits against the wearer’s back. It’s large enough for a passport, wallet, and phone.
• A rain cover (at an additional cost) protects the bag and its contents during wet weather.
• A luggage strap allows it to be attached to the handle of a rolling suitcase.
• The materials are durable and of a high quality.
• The box-like design keeps its shape when the bag is empty or full.

• The shoulder straps could be more comfortable.
• The external water bottle holder could be a bit larger. It doesn’t fit large bottles.
• It’s not washable since the power bank access is permanently integrated.

• Dimensions: 41 x 32 x 18 cm / 16 x 12.5 x 7 in
• Weight: 0.636 kg / 1.4 lb
• Volume: ~23L

One of the best features of the Biaggi Zipsack Backpack is that it folds away for easy storage, and the Biaggi line includes larger carry-on sizes. The Zipsack Backpack folds down to 32 x 16.5 x 8 cm / 12.5 x 6.5 x 3 cm.

• A trolley sleeve on the backpack makes it compatible with rolling bags.
• The Zipsak Backpack is lightweight. An empty weight of less than a kilogram means that the bulk of the weight of a packed bag is in what’s packed.
• The cushioned back contributes to a comfortable carry, even for long periods.
• The four zippered outside pockets are convenient for easy access to important documents. The open side pocket is perfect for carrying a water bottle. An inner cushioned pocket accommodates a laptop or tablet up to 15 inches.
• It fits easily under a seat or in an overhead compartment on most planes.
• The fabric is water resistant, durable, and designed to resist tearing. The bag comes with a two-year warranty. 
• A variety of colours means that each family member can have a differently coloured bag. Plus, it’s easier to locate a bag when it’s surrounded by other luggage.

Available colours change and are not always the same as what’s available in the larger bags. A matching set of luggage can be hard to achieve with the Biaggi line.

• Dimensions: 60 x 28 cm / 20 x 11 in
• Weight: 156 g / 5.5 oz
• Volume: 24 litres

The Sea to Sky is a packable, lightweight, and waterproof bag. It works well for destinations and activities where a considerable amount of rainfall is expected. The minimalistic design means it’s small enough to ‘nest’ inside a main travel bag. Where every gram or ounce counts, it’s a good choice for carry-on travellers who are working with stringent carry-on restrictions.

• The 30 Denier Cordura ripstop nylon is a highly durable fabric.
• Two deep external side pockets help create a balanced load when carrying two water bottles.
• The roll-top system is secured with buckles, like that found in the design of most dry bags. The roll top must be properly rolled and secured to keep the main compartment waterproof.
• The vertical zipper on the front pocket is reflective.
• The mesh material on the adjustable shoulder straps is surprisingly comfortable, aided by the adjustable load-lifter straps. Complementing the harness is an adjustable sternum strap (both height and width) and a detachable hip belt. The sternum strap has a built-in whistle.
• There are loads of attachment points for lightweight objects such as a personal alarm , lightweight compass , or doohickey tool . These include the zipper pull, daisy chain loops, and D-rings on the shoulder straps.
• The stuff sack isn’t attached to anything so keeping track of it requires attention.
• The front pocket does a decent job of keeping things dry, but it isn’t 100% waterproof. This can be remedied by packing items in small dry sacs.
• Like other minimalist packable bags, there’s no internal organization.
• There are quite a few straps creating excess webbing. However, these can be easily tamed with web dominator clips .

• Dimensions: 50 x 24 x 20 cm / 20 x 9 x 8 in
• Weight: 1.16 kg / 2.5 lb 
• Volume: 24 litres 

The lightweight, versatile Deuter Trans Alpine 24 backpack is perfect for daily commuting, weekend getaways, a ‘personal item’ and day pack for longer trips, and hiking and biking excursions.

• As a ‘personal item,’ it fits nicely under a plane seat (or in an overhead compartment).  
• It is a comfortable and secure fit, thanks to a well-designed harness system with padded shoulder straps, air-mesh padded back, and many adjustment features involving load lifters and an adjustable sternum strap. The internal foam backing can be removed and used as a seat cushion. 
• The many practical compartments keep items well-organized: a bottom compartment, a frontal compartment with a hidden pocket for valuables, the main compartment with two sections, a back compartment that fits a 15’’ laptop, two adjustable side pockets, and large zippered belt pockets. 
• It has a removable rain cover, and for cyclists, a stowable helmet holster, rear light mount, and a pump compartment accessible from the outside. 
• A removable hydration sleeve carries up to three litres.

SHORTCOMINGS 

• The back can get sweaty during challenging hikes, despite the well-designed Airstripes ventilation system.
• The hydration sleeve needs to be bought separately.

• Dimensions: 30 x 22 x 53 cm / 9 x 8.6 x 21 in
• Weight: 1.45 kg / 3.2 lb
• Volume: 25 litres
• This bag is perfect for anyone carrying lots of electronics. It’s especially useful for camera equipment, including drones. Or, it can be used as a carry-on backpack for general use.
• The Lowepro Fastpack Pro has three main zones: device, camera, and ‘open.’
• The device zone can accommodate a laptop up to 15 inches. The padded laptop sleeve is elevated so the device can’t slip all the way down when the bottom of the bag touches a surface.
• The camera zone has adjustable dividers for protection and organization.
• The open zone has pockets and space for personal items.
• Both the camera zone and open zone can be accessed separately.
• The bag comes with a lightweight waterproof cover to protect what’s packed inside.
• The camera zone can be secured by fastening the zippers to the buckles, making it very difficult for pickpockets to access.
• The backpack is quite heavy so it might not be suitable for those looking for minimalistic solutions.
• It doesn’t have a hidden pocket at the back which is always useful to have in a carryon.

Victoria Heinz is a travel blogger and writer from Germany. Her blog, Guide your Travel focuses on budget trips and backpacker experiences from around the world.

• Dimensions: 18 x 28.5 x 49 cm / 7 x 11.25 x 19.25 in
• Weight: 1.0 kg / 2.2 lb
• Volume: 25 litres

• The large top-load opening makes it easy to pack.
• The protective inner laptop sleeve with padding is large enough to accommodate documents as well as a laptop.
• The flap-over top is large and magnetizes in front. With the drawstring closure, this backpack is quite secure, more so than any front- or side-zip bag.
• The flat bottom helps the bag stay upright when it’s placed on the ground.
• It’s very light!
• Quilted straps and back padding make for a comfortable carry.
• It’s stylish, and in an enormous range of prints and colours.

There is nothing major that Celeste doesn’t like about the bag, but if we’re being picky:

• There’s just one small pocket on the front and it’s too accessible to store anything important. It’s a glorified hair tie holder!
• A water bottle holder on the side would be nice.
• For someone who likes inner compartments, this bag doesn’t have them! The laptop sleeve is the only inside ‘pocket.’

Celeste Klassen is a freelance writer, carry-on traveller, and the author of  slowtravelblog.com . She is based in Edmonton, Canada, but would always prefer to be in the Balkans.

• Dimensions: 50 x 26 x 19 cm / 19.7 x 10.2 x 7.5 in
• Weight: 580 g / 1.28 lb (Cordura Ripstop version)

The Able Carry Daybreaker 25 is Dean’s current favourite as a standard carry-on bag. For travellers who need larger luggage, this would work well as a personal item. Loaded with features, it’s promoted as an ultralight, water-resistant, durable daypack for active travellers.

• The lightweight Cordura Ripstop fabric and water-resistant zippers means that it travels well in light rain showers when water will run off the surface.
• It works well in compact spaces given the tall, slim, and sleek design.
• The backpack straps and adjustable sternum strap makes carrying heavy loads a breeze.
• A discreet zippered side pocket is perfect for a wallet or passport. An external side pocket with drainage holes is designed for a water bottle. A hidden internal pocket works for financial cards and it’s large enough for a passport.

Dean Roberts is a lightweight minimalist traveller who blogs at Packing Less . He writes reviews on the best backpacks and gear for travelling lighter with just one carry-on bag. Check out his Able Carry Daybreaker 25 review .

• Dimensions: 19 x 10.5 x 5 in / 48 x 27 x 13 cm
• Weight: 1.2 lb / 520 g
• Volume: 28 litres

The Patagonia Arbor Lid Pack is a lightweight and simple top-loading backpack designed and manufactured by the sustainability focussed outdoor clothing and gear brand Patagonia. It represents a perfect balance between weight and durability.

• The bag’s one large cavity can hold a significant amount of clothing and gear, whilst still conforming to the weight and size limits of commercial airlines.
• A built-in raised, padded sleeve fits most 15-inch laptops. A pocket in the flap and a single exterior pocket are convenient for storing things requiring quick access.
• Comfortable straps make the bag easy to wear for extended periods of time, even when full.
• The drawstring closure and buckled top flap diminish the risk of pickpocketing and offer better protection during wet weather.
• Although not entirely waterproof, the water-repellant finish helps water bead on the surface.
• A top-loading design can be convenient, but it can be difficult to access things at the bottom without emptying the bag entirely.
• No sternum strap or hip support means this bag isn’t suitable for extended hiking trips.
• There’s no side pocket for a water bottle.

Delilah Hart is a traveller, photographer, and blogger for Our Travel Mix . She travels the world and writes guides to help others get more from their trips.

If you’re interested in one-bag travel, see How to travel with just one carry-on bag using the nested approach .

Are you researching carry-on bags If so, you might be interested in 31 Features of a perfect carry-on bag: a buying guide to choosing the right luggage

If you have, or are looking for, a travel backpack, see Tame dangling straps with Web Dominator . With the Web Dominator clips, dangling straps are suitably constrained and dangle no more.

And finally, if you own an Osprey bag, or are considering a purchase, check out Is the Osprey warranty any good? It’s so good, I’m now a customer for life. It profiles two experiences putting Osprey’s warranty to the test. My Osprey Farpoint 40 fell off a motorcycle in New Zealand and a friend’s bag wore itself out after many years of faithful service. Both bags were replaced free of charge.

If you found this post helpful, please share it by selecting one or more social media buttons. Care to weigh in? What’s your favourite personal carry-on bag? What features do you like, and what are its shortcomings? Please add your thoughts in the comments. Thank you.

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The Amazon links are affiliate links. If you click on one and buy something, you don’t pay more, but Packing Light Travel earns a small commission that helps with the costs of managing the site. Thank you for your support.

• Pinterest 13

My wife and I used Osprey 20 litre Talon and Tempest packs as our only luggage on Ryanair, thereby avoiding their ridiculous baggage fees. Like the Deuter bags featured here, they have proper hip straps to take the load, water bottle holders, hydration sleeves and 2 small internal pockets. And they are height adjustable and come in 2 lengths. We mostly were staying in AirBnbs so could wash our clothes as required in the evening and dry them overnight. We also had small collapsible Osprey daypacks for wandering around town. Worked great.

Lufthansa still limits a personal item to the old standard of 40cm x 30cm x 10cm (15.7×11.8×3.9in) and has made me check a normal carry-on when my personal item didn’t quite fit in their 12L sizer. I have four laptop cases the right size which were easy to find before 2010, but they’re worn out and duct-taped. My choices are uselessly small 2-inch thick or oversized 6-inch with all 4-inch options violating the 15.7-inch dimension. Any ideas where to get a Lufthansa-compliant laptop briefcase/bag/backpack that isn’t uselessly small or slightly oversized?

How frustrating. I rarely travel with a laptop but when I do, it goes in a protective sleeve before being packed in my personal item, a packable backpack: Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack. I googled ‘Lufthansa-compliant laptop bag’ and found responses in Reddit and Rick Steves forums (in the latter were a couple of Tom Bihn suggestions). There are several active groups on Reddit and asking for recommendations there are bound to produce results. Try r/ManyBaggers, r/onebag, r/HerOneBag. Good luck!

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Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

15 Best Personal Carry-On Bags for Your Flight (2024 update)

We’ve all been there – finally settled into the seat when you realize your sweater – book – whatever – is in the overhead compartment. Your choice is now to do without your needed item, or squeeze back into the aisle, jostling your neighbors as you wrestle your bag from the packed bin, dig through it, and return, chastened, to your seat. Or you could choose the best personal carry-on bag, the one small underseat bag most airlines allow, and you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. And won’t your trip be easier without annoyed seatmates?

Table of Contents

What’s the difference between a carry-on and a personal item?

Most airlines allow full-priced passengers to bring two bags on board – a carry-on bag that is stowed in the overhead bin and a personal item that must fit under the airline seat in front of you.

(NOTE: most airlines require those seated in emergency rows and those in the bulkhead seats stow all bags, including hand luggage, during takeoff and landing)

Examples of 2022 Personal Size Item specifications Be sure to check with your airline for your flight’s in-cabin allowance. American Airlines – 18″ x 14″ x 8″ (45 x 35 x 20 cm) British Airways – 16″ x 12″ x 6″ ((45 x 35 x 20 cm) JetBlue -17″ x 13″ x 8″ (43.2 x 33 x 20.3 cm) Lufthansa – 15″ x 11″ x 3.9″ (40 x 30 x 10 cm) United Airlines – 17″ x 10″ x 9″ (43 x 25 x 22 cm)

Skip the intro, go directly to the bags.

This post includes affiliate links. we may earn a small commission at no additional expense to you if you purchase something or take an action on one of these links. none of these bags have been given (or discounted) to traveling tulls for review.   disclosure, how to choose the best personal bag for you.

>Read our testing procedure below .

Consider YOUR air travel needs and carry ability

Contents: What do you need to have available during flight? (or want close at hand)

__ EDC – wallet, passport, travel essentials __ Cell phone, tablet __ Laptop – size? __ Camera – type, lenses, etc.? __ Reading material (for work or pleasure) __ Headphones – size? __ Water bottle, snacks

__ Children’s needs – diapers, toys, etc. __ Medication/first aid supplies __ Travel pillow __ Light sweater, scarf, or wrap __ Change of clothing __ Toiletry bag

Versatility: how can you use the bag during your trip (or at home)

Will you be using the bag for meetings on business trips? Can it double as a travel purse or stylish tote while you’re exploring a new city? Will it work as a day bag for cruise excursions? Or will it be stored until the return flight?

Can you use the bag at home? Strongly consider a bag that’ll be useful in your day-to-day life!

Physical Carry: what’s best for you

Consider your destination. If you anticipate walking on cobblestone streets and climbing stairs with your bag, avoid a bag with wheels. If you will be heading to a damp climate, consider a water-resistant bag.

Consider your abilities. Be realistic about what you can carry and for how long. Choosing the right size bag is essential.

If you are planning on traveling carry-on only , prioritize the capacity of the bag.

Budget: what makes sense

IF you need to purchase a bag, set a firm budget for your bag. There are good bags in all price ranges.

Balance durability with price. If you’re a frequent traveler, you might spend more to get a bag that’ll last for years. If not, find a bag that works for you at a good price and don’t stress the quality.

What to look for in a personal item bag

• Organization: Under the best of circumstances, accessing an under-seat bag is difficult. Having a well-organized bag with easy access to exterior pockets will make finding everything easier.
• Zipper closures: Secure your bag to avoid having your items roll around the cabin during turbulence.
• Multiple carry options: Carrying the bag as a backpack can be comfortable, but you won’t always be able to get that bag on your back (crowded subways…). Having other options is great!
• Durability: Your bag may see some rough carry on your trip. Buying a well-made bag will insure you don’t have straps break or zippers fail. (As mentioned above, if you don’t travel often and don’t want to invest in an expensive bag, there are many durable but inexpensive bags that might work for you.)
• Style: A bag that’s suited for the office is very different that what you’d bring to the beach…

Test pack your bag!

There’s no shortcut here. if you want to find a bag that’ll work as your personal item, you will need to see, pack, and test carry the bag. Borrow or buy the bags you are considering. (Make sure you can return the bag if it is not a good option.) Pack and test them at home, or better yet, in a mall where you can get a real feel for walking with a bag.

Make a packing list of what you expect to carry on your flight. If you plan on using your bag at home too, make a basic pack out for those uses as well. Carry the bag for at least 15 minutes to get an idea of how it feels on your shoulders and back. Practice taking the bag off and putting it on to see how easily you’ll be able to maneuver and get quick access to the bag.

Important : Be smart and considerate if it’s a possibility you’ll return the bag. Don’t put the bag down on dirty surfaces, remove tags, carry liquids, or do anything else that might damage the bag. A simple 15-minute walk around should leave the bag in an unused condition.

Disclosure: Unless noted, I have tried and tested these bags. If we have not had personal experience with the bag, we have had it highly recommended by other female travelers.

15 best personal items bags for every trip

For most US and International Airlines allow dimensions that add up to 36″ (90 cm) The following bags will likely be accepted without question. If you are pushing the limit on bag size, choose a dark color to be less conspicuous:

Best personal item bags with wheels

Anytime you add wheels to a bag it becomes more difficult to fit under the seat in front of you. (Especially if you’re unlucky enough to get a AV box mounted under that seat). But for some, having a rolling suitcase is essential. If my carry-on for the overhead compartment is a large backpack or duffel, having a rolling tote to load the larger luggage on makes getting around the airport a lot easier.

Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB port

• Dimensions: 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 9″
• Weight: 5.6 pounds | 2.45 kg
• Price [2023] – $$ – See on AMAZON

I will always pick a spinner case as four wheels are so much easier to roll through the airport and along the narrow plane aisle. I haven’t traveled with this bag (yet!) but love the wide front packet, and the fact that the laptop sleeve is removable. There is also a USB port (just a port, no built-in battery) which is handy for quick charges.

Travelpro Max5 Lightweight Rolling Tote

• Dimensions: 16″ x 13.75″ x 8.5″
• Weight: 5.5 pounds | 2.45 kg
• Capacity: 32 liters
• Price [2022] – $$ – See on AMAZON

Travelpro is a great brand and this bag seems to be well thought out. It’s one of the lightest rollers out there, which is important as no matter that it rolls, there will ALWAYS be times when you need to lift the bag.

Best lightweight personal item bags

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack

• Style – 🎒 backpack
• Dimensions 13.5″ x 10.25″ x 8″
• Weight 0.81 lbs. | .37 kg.
• Volume – 27 L
• Laptop/Device Carry
• Price [2024] – $99

I love this bag for light travel. It’s basically a black hole (as the name implies) but I can fill it with all my inflight necessities: neck pillow, kindle, tablet, purse, one day packing cube, etc. Then at my destination I use it as a tote or day pack BUT I can also fold it up and put it away. Especially helpful if touring and bags are being ported from one place to another.

Pros : lightweight, made from 100% recycled materials, front pocket, zip and cinch closure, packs flat inside your luggage.

Cons : little structure and support.

Lands End – Travel Carry on Tote Bag

• Style – tote
• Dimensions 18″ x 15″ x 6″
• Weight – 1.25 lbs. | .57 kg.
• Volume – 28 L
• Laptop/Device Carry –
• Price $ – See on AMAZON

Pros : inexpensive, very durable, spacious main compartment, useful at home as well as when traveling, trolley sleeve.

Cons : very basic, no internal organization, likely too large for most airlines unless under-packed,

Osprey Daylite Plus backpack

• Style – 🎒 Backpack
• Dimensions – 18″ x 10″ x 9″
• Weight – 1.2 lbs. | .54 kg.
• Volume – 20 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – sleeve for tablet or hydration pack

Pros : very lightweight and roomy, one external pocket and a ‘shove-it’ pocket for stashing a jacket or scarf while going through security. Will attach to a larger bag like the Osprey Farpoint.

Cons : not designed for long carry. no dedicated padded laptop compartment.

Osprey Daylite Tote Pack

• Dimensions 17″ x 15″ x 8.25″
• Weight – 1.18 lbs. | .54 kg
• Laptop/Device Carry – 15″ laptop

Pros : two carry options, water bottle pockets on side.

Cons : little built-in organization

Disclaimer : I am recommending based on my experience with other bags in the Daylite line. Though I prefer the Daylite Plus Backpack, I include this bag as being able to carry it as a tote is better for many.

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack

• Dimensions  16″ x 12″ x 5″
• Weight  – 1.45 lbs. | .65 kg
• Laptop/Device Carry – 13″ laptop
• Price [2022] – $89

A lightweight, small backpack ideal for women. This bag features removable tech sleeve for laptop, chargers, etc. Removing this bag leaves a wide-open space ideal for beach outings, etc.

Pros : Multiple carry options (backpack or tote), breathable back panel, compact size is ideal for those with small frames, multiple color options

Best midweight personal Item Totes

My top pick for a classic underseat bag: Solgaard Voyager . This is an elegant bag, great for business carry or city travelers.

Solgaard Voyager Weekender

• Dimensions  – 17.7″ x 11″ x 8.7″
• Weight  – 2.6 lbs. | 1.2 kg
• Volume – 20 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 16″ laptop
• Price [2024] – $220

Pros : opens flat for easy access, includes compression ‘closet’, trolley sleeve, secret passport pocket, fleece lined laptop and tablet sleeve.

Eco-Friendly – Made with Shore-Tex ocean bound plastic. Solgaard is a Certified B Corporation.

Cons : a bit heavy for carry capacity

Lo & Sons O.M.G.  

• Dimensions – 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 6″
• Volume – 25 L
• Price [2024] – $378 (look for sales!)

This bag (O.M.G – Overnight Medium Gym bag ) is well organized with a separate compartment for shoes (or gym clothes), pockets within pockets (great idea for security!) and padded compartment for your laptop.

Pros: trolley sleeve, elegant design, comfortable messenger strap, separate shoe/dirty clothing compartment

Cons: Pricey, The height of the bag makes a tight fit under airplane seats.

Best midweight personal item backpacks

My picks for a underseat backpack bag: a tie between the stylish Pacsafe Citysafe 17L and durable Tom Bihn Synik 22 . Both bags have lots of compartments that make accessing things mid-flight easy.

Pacsafe Citysafe 17 L

• Style : 🎒 Backpack
• Dimensions -15.4″ x 10.6″ x 5.9″
• Weight -1.54 lbs. | .7 kgs.
• Volume – 17 L
• Price $$ – See on AMAZON | Pacsafe

Pacsafe specializes in bags with security features. This bag has lockable zippers, slash proof straps, and RFID shielding. Despite the focus on security the bag is elegant and suitable for business or city travel.

Pros : security features, wide opening, trolley sleeve, front compartment with built in organizations

Cons : Shoulder straps are padded but lightly. Wish it had a place to attach a shoulder strap.

A similar bag, but without the security features, is the Baggallini Soho Backpack . I was truly torn between which bag I should recommend, as they’re both stylish and easy to carry. The Baggallini is a bit lighter and less expensive, so if you don’t need the security features you might want to try this bag. However the zip on the Baggallini is not as robust.

Tom Bihn Synik 22

• Style – 🎒backpack
• Dimensions – 16″ x 11.4″ x 9.4″ / 410 x 290 x 240 mm
• Weight – 2.6 lbs. | 1.2 kg
• Volume – 22L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 13″ MacBook
• Price $$$ [2024] – $320

This is my go-to pack. The bag is well-made and very durable. The external pockets make organizing easy. I pack chargers, etc., in the chin pocket, and everything else I’ll need in flight in the other pockets. No need to pull out the whole bag to access anything.

Pros : 5 external pockets for ease of access, trolley sleeve, padded laptop sleeve, clamshell opening, adjustable straps, comes in various colors

Cons : price, weight, the trolley sleeve (luggage pass through sleeve) can be difficult to use depending on the handle size of your rolling luggage.

NOTE: the Synapse 19 is a simpler version of this bag, with no laptop compartment or clamshell opening. It still has the great organizational pockets but is much lighter.

Vera Bradley Lay Flat Convertible Backpack

• Dimensions 16.3″ x 10.2″ x 7.3″
• Weight – 2.85 lbs. | 1.29 kgs.
• Volume – 20L
• Price $$ – See on AMAZON

This bag will appeal to Vera Bradley quilted fabric fans.

Pros : multiple interior pocket, opens flat for ease of packing. multiple carry options

Cons : No small, secure outside pocket for quick access to phones, etc. Fabric offers little structure.

Best personal item bags for camera carry

Camera bags offer different systems for accessing equipment. What bag you choose will depend on how YOU are comfortable working with your camera equipment. These three bags double as airline personal items, but there are lots of other great camera bags we recommend for travel.

Lowepro Photo Hatchback 16 L

• Style – 🎒📷 camera backpack
• Dimensions – 18″ x 10.8″ x 7.3″
• Weight – 1.8 lbs. | .8 kg.
• Volume – 16 L
• Laptop/Device Carry – 8″ tablet sleeve

I love this bag for nature traveling. The camera basket is accessible from the rear of the bag giving extra security. To access the camera while standing, you remove the shoulder straps and swing the bag down in front of you.

The top of the bag has enough room for an jacket, snacks, and other items making this a well-organized bag to carry on excursions.

Pros : inexpensive, durable, functional pockets and device sleeves.

Cons : Only fits a minimal camera setup.

Wandrd Prvke 21L

• Style – 🎒📷camera backpack
• Dimensions – 43 x 28 x 17 cm / 17 x 11 x 6.5 in
• Weight – 2.8 lbs. | 1.3 kg
• Volume – 21 L (25 L with the roll-top extended)
• Laptop/Device Carry – 15″ MacBook, separate tablet sleeve
• Price $$$ [2024] – $219 ($299 with photography bundle) see price on Wandrd | Amazon

Camera can be accessed from a discreet side pocket or by opening the bag fully.

Pros : well cushioned and ventilated back panel, water resistant, hidden passport pocket, luggage pass-through

Cons : price, especially as the photography bundle is an add-on

Disclaimer : I base my recommendation on the Wandrd 6L Sling which I really like. I am intrigued by the roomier Prvke but have not had the opportunity to try it. I like the slim profile and the potential for expansion offered by the roll top.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack zip

• Dimensions – 17.5″ x 10.5″ x 7.9″
• Weight – 3.4 lbs. | 1.54 kg
• Volume – 15 L
• Price $$ [2024]- $189 See on Amazon | Peak Design

Peak Design Everyday Backpack zip comes in 2 sizes – 15L and 20L. This is the smaller size. Peak Design also offers the Everyday Backpack (latches instead of zips) in two sizes – 20L and 30L.

Camera is accessed from the either side of the bag. A continuous zipper allows the user to set up the zips as works best for them.

Pros : elegant design, cushioned handles on top and sides, internal dividers allow use to customize their setup.

Cons : price, weight for volume.

What to do about a Personal Item if you’re traveling on a very restrictive airline

Some budget airlines are eliminating the personal item altogether for passengers in coach. In this situation, I stash my minimal flight needs into a smaller bag which will fit inside our bigger bag. Once onboard, I slip the smaller bag into my seat pocket for the flight. Many bags will serve this purpose but a brightly colored bag is harder to leave behind in a seat pocket!

Tom Bihn Packing Cube Shoulder Bag – our favorite bag within a bag. This lightweight bag has zipped closures, and can be used at our destination as a shoulder bag, a camera bag, or whatever.

A large cosmetic bag may be perfect for your in-seat needs, and is quite inexpensive! Test the size to see if your gadgets, and EDC fit. Consider using a toiletry bag . Some have hooks that you can use to attach to your tray table and pockets for all your gear.

Look for seat back organizers . Some are easy to stow in your larger carry-on but can be pulled out for your seat pocket.

Tortuga Setout 19L packable backpack – made from ripstop nylon material, this pack folds into a tiny package, but has mesh pockets for water bottles and a zippered outside pocket. (8 oz., 5 x 11 x 17, $39)

How we tested the personal item bags

We reviewed the bags we recommend (or a variation from the brand) for carrying comfort, capacity, and durability, and style.

• Carrying Comfort: As a woman over 50 with back and shoulder issues having multiple carry options is important. Well-cushioned straps and a trolley sleeve were appreciated. The weight of the bag also came into play as heavier bags are more challenging to carry.
• Wallet, iPhone, iPad Mini, Kindle paperwhite, earbuds, charging cords in small cinch bag, sunglasses, medications, essential toiletries (toothbrush, lip balm, lotion, etc.), light sweater, water bottle, small snack, and [optional] clothing for one day in a compression cube
• Durability: Several of the bags have been in our travel rotation for years so durability is obvious. For those bags we tested only, the quality of the bag’s construction and the materials used helped us to determine durability. We confirmed our assessment by checking with other travelers who recommended the bag.
• Style: This is a personal preference.

I hope this A-list guide has helped you discover a personal item sized bag that’ll work for you. Do you have a favorite bag you reach for every trip? What determines what you carry?

This article contains referral links. Read our  DISCLOSURE .

TravelingTulls is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We are not provided with any products by Amazon but receive a small fee if you purchase an item through our link.

Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Elegance at Sea: An Authentic Viking Ocean Cruises Review

Amy Tull and Team

• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Nature and Birding in Costa Rica: a World of Strange & Wonderful Beauty
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ How to Survive a Long Flight: be comfortable even in Economy Seats (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru: a traveler’s guide (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Undercover Birding: how to enjoy birdwatching while traveling with friends

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3 thoughts on “ 15 Best Personal Carry-On Bags for Your Flight (2024 update) ”

Lug bags found at Luglife. com are great travel bags. They are sturdy, well-made and reasonably priced. Highly recommend these bags.

“no laptop compartment” is listed as a con for the Daylite Plus, but it does have a separate patted laptop sleeve. Is that an error or is a laptop compartment something different?

Hi Daniel, I am traveling right now but will check whether my Daylite Plus has a padded sleeve. I don’t use a case for my laptop so prefer padding in the backpack. But of course a padded compartment adds bulk to a bag so there is a trade-off. Thanks for the comment!

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• Smart Living

16 Personal-Item Carry-on Bags For Stylish and Hassle-Free Flying

Updated on 4/9/2024 at 5:33 PM

There's nothing like going on a quick weekend trip to explore other cities or taking the time to visit friends and family you haven't seen in a while. However, the costs of flying are skyrocketing, suitcases are getting lost, and airlines are charging a pretty penny for carry-on luggage and checked bags. The hunt for cheap flights and convenient travel is an ongoing challenge. One way to keep travel costs as low as possible: utilizing the personal-item carry-on bag. The personal-item bag is a must when you fly a no-frills airline such as Frontier or Spirit Airlines, or buy a basic economy seat for domestic travel, since it's the only bag you can bring that's free of extra costs. These functional bags also make long-haul flights easier with convenient access to all your necessities.

What Qualifies as a Personal-Item Bag?

A personal-item bag can be a functional backpack, a stylish tote bag , a spacious diaper bag , a laptop or work bag , or anything small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you. Each airline has different qualifications on sizes and proportions, so we've listed a few common ones below:

• Spirit: 8" depth x 14" width x 18" height
• Frontier: 8" depth x 18" width x 14" height
• United: 9" depth x 10" width x 17" height
• Delta: 9" depth x 13" width x 17" height
• American: 8" depth x 14" width x 18" height
• Southwest: 8.5" depth x 13.5" width x 18.5" height
• JetBlue: 8" depth x 13" width x 17" height
• Allegiant: 7" depth x 15" width x 16" height

A quality personal-item bag has enough room for all your travel essentials and necessities while being compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you according to the airline guidelines. Going on a quick weekend getaway? Your go-to personal-item bag should fit all your vacation must haves, including a few outfits, an extra pair of shoes, makeup, skin-care, and toiletries, necessary chargers and cords, and maybe even a flat iron and a reusable water bottle. There are several stylish and quality personal-item bags on the market that take all this into consideration, so you can travel smarter. Ahead, we curated the best personal item bags for planes, including tried and tested picks from our editors, like the Béis Mini Weekender Bag .

Ready to hit "buy" on a new one for yourself? Ahead, a selection of the best personal carry-on bags for flying.

The Best Personal-Item Carry-on Bag

Béis The Mini Weekender ($98)

The Béis The Mini Weekender is the smaller version of the bestselling Weekender Bag , which is also an editor favorite. It can be used as an everyday tote, but it's also perfect for overnight trips or as a personal item on flights. "It is ideal for any traveler, whether you're a frequent flyer or someone who goes on the occasional vacation. . . . The bag fits the right amount of clothing and necessities for a three-day trip, including a few extra outfits if you pack smart," our editor says.

This personal item bag has a padded, built-in laptop sleeve; a bottom compartment for shoes, hair tools, and toiletries; and a trolley pass-through sleeve. Plus, the inside has a large zip pocket and two small slip pockets. Our editor points out, "another clever feature is the expandable, clamshell-like zip-top opening of the top compartment. The bag opens up quite wide, so you can easily see and access your stuff and take out your electronics . . . for security." It has a top handle and a padded longer strap. It comes in eight colors, including beige, black, navy, gray, olive green, maple brown, pink, and slate light blue. Read our in-depth review of the Beis Mini Weekender Bag .

Dimensions: 16" height x 16" width x 8" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag That's Foldable

Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag ($14)

The Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag is a foldable and affordable travel option that comes in a ton of different colors and prints. It has two top-handle carrying straps, a detachable shoulder strap, a trolley sleeve, and an external zipper pocket. The bag is made from a thick waterproof material that can hold its shape. Plus, it's a bestseller on Amazon.

Dimensions: 13" height x 18" width x 6.3" depth

Best Eco-Friendly Personal-Item Bag

Paravel Weekender Bag ($295)

The Paravel Weekender Bag is an editor-backed pick, with her stating that "even though the bag itself appears compact, it actually has a ton of space inside. I can fit electronics, multiple cosmetic bags, and any other extras I want readily available with plenty of space to spare." It can fit around two days worth of clothes (three if you're smart about packing), toiletries, and a 15-inch laptop. Paravel's Weekender Bag has a wide shoulder strap that lets you carry it with ease and a trolley sleeve that lets you carry it on top of your rolling luggage. It has a secure zip-top closure and several slip and zippered pockets on the inside.

The eco-friendly weekender is made out of 60 percent recycled materials, including recycled vegan leather. Plus, it's made with an ecocraft canvas that is spill proof and durable. You can personalize it with a monogram. Read our in-depth review of the Paravel Weekender Bag .

Dimensions: 15" height x 15" width x 8" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag Travel Backpack

Lubardy Travel Backpack ($30, originally $32)

If you're looking for a durable backpack you can use for weekend trips, the Lubardy Travel Backpack is a great option and comes with three packing cubes. It has a spacious main compartment that can fit a few outfits and a pair of shoes. Plus, it has a laptop compartment, a wet pocket for toiletries and laundry, and a side pocket for a water bottle or an umbrella. The zippers are sturdy and reinforced, so you can keep squishing items in without the bag exploding. The waterproof and durable backpack comes in seven colors.

Dimensions: 20" height x 13" width x 8"depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag For Organization

Bolosta Canvas Weekender Bag ($40)

The Bolosta Canvas Weekender Bag is a stylish, easy-to-carry weekender bag that comes with its own shoe compartment. It is made from a durable canvas fabric with faux-leather accents and comes equipped with six pockets and one main compartment. Plus, you get two additional toiletry bags to keep things organized. It can fit up to two to four days' worth of essentials. The affordable weekender bag comes in seven colors as well.

Dimensions: 13" height x 19" width x 9.5" depth

Best Personal-Item Bag For Organization

Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag ($180)

Ideal for those who prioritize organization and efficient packing, the Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag has a unique and functional design that opens like a suitcase. This opens down the middle like a suitcase, so you can have each side lay flat for easy packing. The bento-inspired bag has plenty of exterior and interior compartments to keep things organized, including a tech pouch, a padded laptop sleeve, a toiletry pouch, a shoe bag, two internal compartments, an external wallet/phone pocket, and an external pocket for water bottles. Plus, it features an adjustable side strap, top handles, a convertible-trolley sleeve pocket, and a lightweight construction. This bag comes in three contemporary colorways, and is made from weather-resistant nylon and LWG-certified leather.

Our editors says that she loves that it has two security-friendly pockets that can be accessed from the top so she doesn't have to fumble through TSA. "After packing my computer, tablet, chargers, and headphones, I was able to include two changes of clothes, pajamas, toiletries, and an extra pair of shoes all inside the bag, which is pretty impressive for the size," she says. Check our her review of the Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag here .

Dimensions: 10" height x 17" width x 8" depth

Best Stylish Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage ($165)

If you're in the market for something durable, sleek, and glam, Calpak's Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage is designed to fit underneath most airplane seats. Don't believe us? We put it to the test in this Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage review . One of our editors says, "it's quite literally a mini version of a carry-on bag; it has all the convenience of a stylish and functional suitcase, just sliced in half. . . . Although it may look small, it can fit a good amount of stuff for a three or four-day weekend."

The best part of this bag is that it's equipped with 360-degree spinner wheels and a collapsible luggage handle, so you can get through security and to your gate without having to carry the actual weight of your bag. This mini carry-on bag is a dream for organization; it opens upright and has a divider with multiple pockets. It comes in gold, rose gold, silver, copper, and black.

Dimensions: 14" height x 16" width x 9" depth

Best Durable Personal-Item Travel Backpack

Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack 25L ($158)

If you're looking for something durable, the Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack is an editor-backed pick that's not only personal-item approved, but also hiking approved. It's made from a water-repellent fabric, so spills, scuffs, and weather won't be an issue. The versatile backpack has plenty of storage space with pockets galore, including exterior pockets for water bottles and umbrellas, interior pockets that can help keep dirty and clean clothes separate, adjustable exterior straps that can hold a jacket or a yoga mat, a padded laptop sleeve, and it even has a trolley sleeve. The drawstring opening is ideal for easy access, but it's kept secure with the buckle closures.

One editor put it to the test and says, "My typical backpack load includes two books, a small notebook, a laptop, a bag of chargers, a case of toiletries, a pouch of miscellaneous personal-care items, a water bottle, an extra jacket, hand sanitizer, sunglasses, and a spare wallet. And because the main compartment closes with a drawstring, you can really push the limits of the amount of stuff you can cram in. . . . After getting caught in a surprise downpour while on top of a mountain in Brasov, Romania, I was soaked — but everything inside my backpack was perfectly dry." Read her in-depth review of the Lululemon Wunderlust Backpack for more.

Dimensions: 14.2" height x 20.1" width x 6.1" depth

Best Personal-Item Duffle Bag

Béis The Commuter Duffle ($138)

Although we're huge fans of the bestselling Béis Mini Weekender Bag, its Commuter Duffle is a worthy competitor. It has a capacity of 24.2 liters, and comes in two classic colors, black and beige. The duffle bag is designed for the busybody who's constantly on the go; it has two slip pockets on either side for water bottles or umbrellas and a zipper pocket in the front. Plus, the interior has the perfect blend of spaciousness and organization. Not only is there a padded laptop pocket, but also four elastic pockets (two of which are mesh), as well as a zipper pocket.

This bag maintains is sleek silhouette and crisp look with five metal feet that let it stand on its own. It's made from a water resistant nylon, but it has vegan leather top handles and a padded leather adjustable strap.

One of our editors put it to test during a weekend trip to Sedona and says that she was able to fit "seven outfits, two pairs of shoes, my toiletry bag, portable steamer, and more." Beyond the ample packing space, she loves how sleek and stylish the bag looks and that it's lightweight. Read more about The Commuter Duffle in our review of the Béis Commuter collection .

Dimensions: 12" height x 21.5" width x 9" depth

Best Affordable Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On Luggage ($53)

The TPRC 15-Inch Smart Under Seat Carry-On Luggage is perfect for the traveler on the go. For starters, unlike most weekender bags and duffles, this one has wheels. This bag has a USB port that lets you attach a power bank to it, so you can charge your phone and laptop in-flight or at the gate. It's spacious on the inside with plenty of pockets and sections to stay organized. You can carry this with its top handle, wear it like a backpack, or roll it. This under-seat carry-on comes in a few other colors, like navy blue, brown, and purple.

Dimensions: 15" height x 14" wide x 8.5" depth

Best Personal-Item Travel Backpack For Organization

Open Story Signature Traveler Backpack ($120)

The Open Story Signature Traveler Backpack from Target looks and acts like a backpack from the outside, but functions like a suitcase internally. It has a zip-open, flat-lay design that opens up like a carry-on, so you can pack everything neatly. The backpack has three mesh compartments for organizing your clothes, a laptop compartment that's padded, and plenty of additional pockets to store all your other necessities. This is perfect for anyone who wants more balanced support for their back and shoulders, rather than relying on a crossbody or top handle design. It also has a useful trolley strap that doubles as an external pocket when not in use. It's made with a durable, water-resistant fabric as well.

Dimensions: 21" height x 14" width x 8.75" depth.

Best Personal-Item Bag With a Clamshell Opening

Away Overnight Bag ($225)

Away's The Overnight Bag is a water-resistant, durable, sleek option that's perfect for fitting a few outfits, toiletries, and your tech. It has a 15-inch laptop pocket, several interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized, and a useful trolley sleeve. It has an easy-access clamshell opening and a detachable shoulder strap as well. It comes in five colors, and you even can personalize it.

Dimensions: 11" height x 17.7" width x 9" depth

You can also consider getting the The Weekender Bag ($245) if you need more space; however, its dimensions may exceed some airline's requirements. The larger option has a 9.4-inch depth, 20.9-inch width, and 11.8-inch height.

The Overnight Bag can fit around two to three outfits with a 28 liter capacity, whereas The Weekender Bag can fit three to four outfits with a 38 liter capacity.

Best Expandable Personal-Item Bag

Dagne Dover 365 Medium Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag ($215)

Dagne Dover's 365 Medium Landon Neoprene Carryall Duffle Bag is soft and durable, perfect for squishing under a seat. It may look compact at first, but it has an expandable design that can fit several outfits, slim shoes and hair tools, and more. It comes with plenty of accessories and compartments that will keep your travel essentials organized, like a laptop sleeve, a shoe/laundry bag, and a removable mesh pouch for your chargers and cords. There's even an easy-access pocket perfect for your phone, passport, or boarding pass. Plus, it has a crossbody strap, top handles, and two side pockets that are perfect for water bottles and shoes. It comes in four colors, including gray, muted purple, camel tan, and a dark moss green.

Dimensions: 10.5" height x 17" width x 8.5" depth

Best Leather Personal-Item Bag

Cuyana Leather Weekender ($548)

Cuyana's Leather Weekender is perfect for those who need to keep things compartmentalized. It's equipped with three compartments, including two external zip compartments that can fit up to a 16-inch laptop. The main compartment has two large slip pockets that are great for storing shoes, hair tools, and other necessities. The bag even has a trolley sleeve, so you can easily secure it to your carry-on bag. Carry this in your hand, over your shoulder, or as a crossbody with its adjustable removable strap. It comes in a neutral brown shade and black.

Besides its functionalities, this gorgeous weekender bag is crafted from Italian leather, making it a stylish and investment-worthy piece that screams quiet luxury.

Dimensions: 14.5" height x 22.5" width x 7" depth

Looking for something smaller? You can get the Overnight Bag, which is the same silhouette with a 5.5-inch depth, a 19-inch width, and a 13-inch height.

Best Hardshell Personal-Item Bag With Wheels

Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage ($165)

The Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage doesn't compromise on style or functionality. This personal-item carry-on bag has a polycarbonate hard-shell exterior that can withstand scuffs and bumps. The cool thing with this bag is that it opens upright, so you'll be able to easily see and access everything in your bag. It has an interior divider with pockets and compression straps to keep your over-packed bag organized. It has a TSA-accepted lock, a collapsible luggage handle, and four 360-degree spinner wheels for a smooth, upright roll. Choose between a four colors. And, yes, this small rolling bag fits beneath most airline seats.

Dimensions: 14" height x 16" width x 8.5" depth

Best Eco-Friendly Personal-Item Tote Bag

Paravel Medium Cabana Tote ($175)

Embrace vacation mode with this stylish and fun Paravel Medium Cabana Tote. It's made out of 60 percent recycled materials, including recycled vegan leather. The bag is made with an ecocraft canvas that's spill-proof and quite durable. It has several slip and zippered pockets on the inside for plenty of organization. It has a secure zip-top closure, top handles, and an adjustable crossbody strap. It has a sturdy base that will keep it upright, so you can easily access your must haves. Plus, you can personalize it with a monogram, and it comes in four colors.

If you need something bigger, the larger cabana tote ($185) is more roomy, with a 23.75-inch length, 14.5-inch width, and 7.5-inch depth.

Dimensions: 12" height x 18" width x 7.5" depth

Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for POPSUGAR Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.

7 Best Personal Item Bags For Airline Travel (2024)

What is a personal item bag?

Most airlines these days allow passengers to bring two things onto the plane with them: a carry-on, which goes in the overhead compartment, and a personal item bag, which goes under the seat in front of you. The difference between the two basically boils down to size, since the personal item needs to be small enough to fit under the seat.

Why do you need a personal item bag for travel?

1) Because a personal item is more convenient than a larger carry-on. If you only bring a carry-on bag that has to go in the overhead compartment, it’ll be much more difficult to get to during your flight. You’d have to stand up in the aisle, struggle with lifting a heavy bag overhead, and risk things falling out onto your head if the plane hits a bump. Plus it’s not allowed near the beginning and end of the flight or if there’s turbulence. Depending on when you board, you may not even be able to store that bag in a compartment near your seat. Being able to grab things from below the seat in front of you is much easier and can be done at any time during the flight (except takeoff and landing!), and without any glares from the flight attendants.

2) Because a personal item can double as something else you’ll need during your trip. As long as your bag is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, it can be a personal item. That means purses, shoulder bags, briefcases, laptop cases, shoulder bags, small backpacks, and duffel bags can all work as personal items, and you may need them during your trip anyway. Choose a personal item that matches your travel style and other needs, and you’ll get way more use out of it.

Here are our top 7 best personal item bags:

1. ecosusi weekender bag, (most professional and most fashionable – $$).

Why it’s great: This silky black bag is professional and fashionable, so it’s perfect for business travel or any time you want a sleek style. The nylon fabric is water-repellent and feels durable, and there are convenient interior and exterior pockets. The shoulder strap is detachable and fully adjustable, although the handles can be worn over the shoulder instead if you prefer. This bag is large enough that you may not even need to pack any additional luggage, depending on the length of your trip. If you have a roller suitcase as well, the outer pocket on the Weekender will slide easily over the handle.

Keep in mind: This bag’s biggest downfall is the lack of interior organization; apart from a small Kindle-sized sleeve, the inside is just one giant compartment. But if you need more organization, just add your own divider or use packing cubes.

Good for: Business travelers and the style-conscious.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Samsonite Wheeled Underseater

(no heavy lifting required – $$$).

Why it’s great: Samsonite is one of the most respected names in luggage, so you can be confident you’re getting a sturdy, high-quality bag that will last. Inside this bag are flaps with zippered mesh and plastic pockets that essentially function as a toiletry bag, and the plastic-lined pockets on the sides are also great for carrying liquids or any messy items. If you have another larger wheeled suitcase, the Underseater has a flap on the back that will slide over the handle, making it easy to roll both of them together.

Keep in mind: Compared to the typical rolling suitcase, this one is tiny. That’s exactly why it’s one of the best personal items, but just be realistic about how much you’ll be able to fit in it. The organizational flaps inside take up some of the space, further cutting down on how much the bag can hold, although one of the two is detachable if you don’t want to use it. Though the Underseater is small for a roller, it still may not fit under the seat on all airlines and planes, so be sure to double-check the allowable dimensions before your flight.

Good for: Anyone who wants or needs a bag that rolls.

3. Bluboon Canvas Weekender

(most versatile – $$).

Why it’s great: This shoulder bag is small enough to fit under a plane seat, but still large enough to carryquite a bit of stuff. It can hold everything you’d need for a typical weekend trip, so it may be the only bag you’ll need to bring. If you do have another suitcase with you, the outer pocket will slide over the handle of a roller bag. It also has interior and exterior pockets and comes with handles and a detachable shoulder strap. The shape of this Weekender and the striped fabric give it a stylish look, and it’s great for all kinds of everyday use, from going on picnics or beach trips to taking to the gym or the office.

Keep in mind: For some reason, the shoulder strap that comes with this bag is almost comically long– even the shortest possible length is way too long for someone of average height. But you can easily poke a new hole to make the strap exactly the length you want it, or just wear the handles over your shoulder and leave the strap at home. Like the Ecosusi Weekender above, this one doesn’t have any interior organization, so you may want to use your own divider or packing cubes. Lastly, because the fabric is canvas, this bag isn’t very waterproof – something to keep in mind if you’re visiting a rainy destination.

Good for: Anyone who wants a versatile bag for everyday use.

4. Wandf Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

(best budget option – $).

Why it’s great: This bag is incredibly lightweight and, as the name suggests, it foldsup into a tiny pouch that’ll take up almost no space in your main bag. There aren’t a ton of bells and whistles, but this is a solid, basic duffel bag, and a great budget-friendly option. The water-resistant fabric makes it a good choice if you’ll be visiting a rainy destination. It comes with a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap and,unlike any of the other duffels on this list, it also has adjustable handles. If you’re carrying a rolling suitcase as well, the strap on the back of the bagwill slide over the handle.

Keep in mind: Be careful not to overpack this bag and try to force it closed or the zipper may not hold up well. It doesn’t have any interior pockets or dividers, and the outside pocket is a little risky to use because it folds nearly all the way open when unzipped. This duffel also doesn’t have much structure to it – but that’s the trade-off for such a lightweight, packable bag.

Good for: Bargain hunters.

5. Mancro Laptop Backpack

(most tech-savvy – $$).

Why it’s great: If you prefer to wear your personal item on your back, the Mancro is a compact, lightweight option. It’s comfortable to wear and is made from a nice-looking water-resistant fabric. There are multiple interior and exterior pockets, and the inside has a laptop sleeve as well. What’s really unique about this backpack is the built-in USB port and charging cable; you can plug a power bank into the cord inside the backpack and then charge your device by plugging it into the port on the outside. That way, you can keep your phone handy and easily use it while it’s charging.

Keep in mind: The main downside to this backpack is that it has several straps and buckles onthe sides that aren’t very functional and make it look clunky.

Good for: Tech-lovers.

6. Narway Foldable Travel Duffle Bag for Spirit Airlines

(most lightweight – $).

Why it’s great: This bag is extremely lightweight and packs down to almost nothing, but it’s surprisingly large. Plus, you can’t beat the price.

Keep in mind: The reason this bag weighs so little is because it’s made of extremely thin fabric – but it isn’t waterproof and doesn’t feel very durable. This should mainly be a concern if you’d plan to pack a ton of weight into this bag or use it constantly. Like many duffel bags, it lacks pockets and dividers, but you can always use your own dividers or packing cubes if needed. There’s one zippered pocket on the outside, but it folds wide open when unzipped, so you may not want to keep too much in there. Lastly, this bag has written on the outside, so take that into consideration as well.

Good for: Light packers and infrequent travelers.

7. Veegul Doctor-Style Backpack

Why it’s great: The Veegul is a nice-looking and compact backpack, and it can be worn on your back or carried by the handles. It doesn’t weigh much when empty, and it has convenient zippered pockets on both the inside and outside.

Keep in mind: The size and position of the carrying handles are odd for a backpack – when you have it on your back, the handles stick straight up behind you. This doesn’t really affect the backpack’s functionality, but it does look a little strange. There’s no laptop sleeve or other dividers on the inside, although this is less of an issue for a backpack than a duffel bag. The Veegul also isn’t intended to hold a ton of weight, so it’s probably not the best choice if you have a lot to carry. Lastly, be aware that the canvas fabric is not waterproof.

Good for: Light packers.

Ecosusi Weekender Bag

The Ecosusi Weekender Bag is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..

Don’t forget these must-have accessories:

FAQs about Personal Items

1. how big can a personal item be.

The allowable size of personal items varies by airline, aircraft, and even individual seat. In general, the maximum dimensions are usually 16-18 inches tall, 10-15 inches wide, and 7-9 inches deep. If you’re concerned about the size of your personal item, just double-check with the airline before your flight.

2. How much can a personal item weigh?

Very few airlines place limits on the weight of personal items, as they are much more concerned with whether they fit underneath the seat.

3. What kinds of bags qualify as personal items?

A personal item can be pretty much any type of bag, as long as it adheres to the size limitations. Many people carry their purses, laptop bag, or briefcase as their personal item, but shoulder bags, duffels, small backpacks, and even some rolling bags can also be used as personal items.

4. What should I put in my personal item?

Your personal item is the place to store anything you’ll want easy access to during your flight. These are a few things to consider packing in your carry-on:

• Devices like your laptop, tablet, or phone
• Other entertainment, such as a book, magazine, or journal
• Items to help you sleep, including an eye mask, ear plugs, and neck pillow
• Clothing to layer, such as a sweater, scarf, or socks
• Snacks and a water bottle
• Any medication or toiletries you’ll need while in the air

When choosing a personal item, make sure you consider what type of bags you generally prefer to carry. Do you like wearing backpacks and having the weight evenly distributed? Would you rather have a rolling bag you don’t have to carry at all? Do you prefer the dressier look of shoulder bags, or the more casual look of duffels? How much stuff do you want to carry in your personal item? Will you want to be able to use the bag throughout your trip, or even in everyday life?

There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of personal item, but by choosing the one that best fits your needs and preferences, you’ll be on your way to having a hassle-free flight and an enjoyable trip.

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Adrienne So Gear Team

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.

Matt Jancer

David Nield

Aarian Marshall

Boone Ashworth

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.

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Everything You Need to Fly Personal-Item-Only

The best way to travel cheaply these days is to pack light. That’s because in the majority of cases, a basic airfare “just covers getting on the plane,” says Jasmine Anderson , travel agent and co-host of the podcast Travel Fly Sexy . “Everything else is additional.” With full-size carry-on bags an optional expense, what remains free for now is each passenger’s “personal item,” which can theoretically be anything that’s TSA-approved and small enough to fit under the seat in front of them. For short trips on a budget, “you can absolutely travel with just a personal-item bag,” says travel creator Jessica Ufuoma . It’ll potentially make for a more enjoyable vacation: “You might be arriving on a morning flight and want to explore as soon as you arrive,” says Daniel Burnham, senior product-operations specialist at Going . “You can’t do that with a trolley full of bags in tow.”

No-frills carriers like Frontier and Spirit are strictest on personal-item-size bags, with Frontier even offering commission to staff members who charge passengers extra luggage fees at the gate. To avoid being pulled aside as you board, make sure your bag’s dimensions don’t exceed 8 x 18 x 14 inches and that it’s not too overstuffed to slide into a baggage sizer. Passengers can technically bring only one bag aboard as their personal item, which means that you might be questioned for wearing a cross-body in addition to your backpack. To get around this, try buying a snack at the gate, suggests Travel Fly Sexy co-host Natasha Wilson . “Then place your purse in that plastic shopping bag and smuggle it onto the plane.”

Best personal-item bags

You’ll have to leave your Away carry-on at home when traveling with a personal-item-only, but that doesn’t mean hard luggage is completely out of the question. Anderson, Wilson, and packing expert Lauren Kelly all praise this tiny suitcase with snap-off spinner wheels that can slide miraculously into the cruelest of baggage sizers. (“Frontier lately is charging people for wheels and handles sticking out of the sizers,” says Kelly. “That means $100 extra for each leg of the trip.”) Measuring 18 x 14 x 8 inches, the suitcase’s rectangular shape maximizes space and allows you to use packing cubes: “I have put a laptop and a week’s worth of clothes in the Take Off,” says Anderson. Kelly agrees that “it will give you the most packing space if your goal is a weeklong trip where you pack a personal item only.” The suitcase comes with a small bag to put its wheels in while your bag is being sized by airline staff — you can also just stash them in your pockets.

When packing light, Kelly tends to swap between the Take Off suitcase above and this backpack, which she recommends because the brand “also focuses on personal-item-size bags only — it doesn’t even make bigger bags.” Unlike a hard suitcase, the Underseat Pro backpack has side pockets for easy access to essential items and can obviously be worn on the shoulders to keep your hands free. Like the Take Off, it meets personal-item-sizing requirements exactly, measuring 18 x 14 x 8 inches. It also features a luggage-handle sleeve for when you’re traveling with an additional suitcase.

Calpak’s durable bags were highly regarded among travel experts I spoke with. Measuring 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches, the brand’s Terra backpack helps maximize packing space while meeting dimension requirements, and its rectangular shape also fits cleanly into baggage sizers. If you’ve overpacked, external compression straps can help you squash things down a bit, says Ufuoma. And the clamshell zip means this “nice-looking and durable” bag “flips out like a suitcase, which makes it easier to use packing cubes.”

Calpak’s slightly smaller Luka shoulder bag measures 12 x 16 x 7 inches and features a hidden shoe compartment as well as useful external pockets that are big enough for a small water bottle or book. As above, this bag’s rectangular shape is designed to slide smugly into baggage sizers. Among travelers in the know, it’s “popular for good reason,” says Ufuoma. “It’s very roomy, and it just works.”

For a sleeker look, Ufuoma recommends this vegan leather Monos backpack. “There’s space for a laptop, there’s a compartment in the front for skin care and makeup, and in the main area you can fit at least four tops and two pairs of pants,” she says. “So, including what you wear on the plane, that means you’ll have three pairs of pants with you on the trip.” The backpack has a sleeve on the back to slide onto your carry-on luggage handle, should you be embarking on any longer trips in the future. For short ones, it measures 11.5 x 16.5 x 6 inches, complying with personal-item standards.

Dagne Dover’s Landon bag is “an absolute gem and a lifesaver,” says Jessica Morrobel of Traveling With Jessica . Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, is also a fan, especially for quick overnights. She likes that it has “all the pockets built in, so I can be very organized,” and that the bag slips over her luggage handle when she’s on longer trips. 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. Measuring 14.5 x 7.5 x 9 inches, it’s more compact than other bags here, although the flexible neoprene fabric allows for overpacking.

Another stylish option for weekend trips is this thoughtfully designed backpack with slightly rounder edges than the Underseat Pro above, making it appropriate for day hiking and office commuting. Travel creator Jessica Wright of Bon Traveler is a longtime user and says she is “shocked” by how much she can fit in this 18 x 12 x 6 inch bag. “You can definitely fit everything you need for two nights,” she says. “It’s wildly spacious, like a black hole almost.”

Best personal-item packing cubes and organizers

The 12 travel experts I spoke with were divided on the issue of packing cubes, especially as most personal items are only big enough to fit one or two. They also warned that packing cubes sometimes give people the confidence to overpack clothing they don’t technically need on short trips. The consensus was that if you do use cubes, compressive ones like these from Calpak are ideal. Ufuoma says they’re made from a material that’s “thick and durable — your clothes will stay where you put them.”

Jewels Rhode of Travel With Jewels says she’s had no issue with this more affordable full set of compression cubes that also has options for a longer trip.

While travel TikTok has popularized the concept of packing 30 outfits into a carry-on using vacuum storage bags, none of the experts I spoke with recommended using this method. “Please don’t listen to the influencers,” says Kelly. “I do a lot of trips where I move from place to place, and if I had to vacuum everything every time? Just no.” Anderson and Wilson do, however, recommend these small space-saver bags that don’t require a vacuum and are “like Ziplocs for clothes.” As Wilson explains, “Several of them can fit inside packing cubes — so you can organize your outfits but keep them all in one cube.”

“I can’t stress enough how essential it is to have an organizational pouch that can neatly hold my cables and smaller electronic gadgets,” says Morrobel. She says that this one “fits the bill perfectly — it’s water-resistant and fits comfortably inside any bag.”

Best personal-item laundry products

“If you want to be minimalist in your packing, think about doing laundry every two days or so,” says Nastro. “Especially for a week, it’s totally doable.” Because they are small and essentially weightless, she takes along a few of these instant laundry sheets that dissolve in water: “And now I don’t feel worried about packing an outfit for every single day.”

When rolling your clothes up tightly or using compression cubes, there’s a high chance they’ll emerge from your bag looking a little rumpled. If this is a serious concern, Ufuoma suggests bringing along a small bottle of Downy’s wrinkle releaser so that you don’t have to locate a steamer or iron on the ground.

Alternatively, “you actually can fit a steamer in a personal item,” Wilson insists. She likes this folding one, but admits that the best hack is still probably “to pack fabrics where you don’t have to worry about wrinkles.”

Best personal-item accessories

Anderson and Wilson both recommend this stuffable travel pillow as a way of sneaking extra clothes onto the plane. “It’s a great hack because you can fit extra T-shirts, shorts, and swimwear into something that no one is looking at you sideways for because it’s a pillow,” says Wilson.

Water bottles are both a travel essential and a complete packing nightmare, which is why we’ve been recommending this “ Capri Sun for adults ” since 2020. When empty, just roll it up and put it in your pocket — or clip it to the exterior of your bag with the included carabiner.

A packable nylon tote bag can hold dirty laundry, wet beach clothes, or groceries. Going’s senior product designer, Pratika Appaiah, “never travels without” this Baggu one, which she says “can even be a picnic blanket for one if I go to a park, because it’s waterproof.”

Weight typically isn’t a concern with personal-item bags, especially on domestic airlines. “But for international travel, especially in Europe, they definitely do care,” says travel agent and content creator Adrie Smith . Because she “never wants to be the person unpacking their stuff on the airport floor,” she always makes sure to bring along a travel scale. Burnham agrees that one of these is “an excellent investment.”

Wilson says that this compact three-in-one wireless charger “has significantly decreased the number of cords and gadgets I have to take with me.” It can simultaneously charge an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods case.

Best personal-item toiletries

A common piece of advice among the experts I spoke with was that even “travel-size” miniature toiletries are too large to pack into a personal-item bag. “It’s a really common mistake that I see people make,” says Kelly. “People will bring a lot of big ‘travel-size’ things in a huge toiletries bag. That will take up a quarter of your luggage — it ends up being as big as a packing cube.” Instead, she recommends decanting a small amount of product into these miniature Cadence capsules, which can be slipped anywhere in your bag and are completely leakproof.

Small shampoo and soap bars are also a great packing solution, says Appaiah. She likes Lush’s bar shampoo because it lasts for months.

Most Dopp kits don’t pack flat, which makes them tricky to tesselate with your packing cubes, especially in a small bag. One of the most compact solutions surprisingly comes from luxury skin-care brand Aesop, says Wright, who purchases this Kyoto travel kit on a yearly basis. “I can take it off the shelf and have everything I need,” she explains. “It all fits in this small, flat case. When I’m really traveling light, I just bring the set and don’t fuss.”

Best clothes to pack in a personal-item

When packing light, make sure all your tops and bottoms can be mixed and matched. “If you can, stick to a color scheme,” advises Ufuoma. “Take neutral colors that go well with each other.” A comfortable pair of pants that can be worn both out to dinner and on the plane is a great starting point. Yolo Journal ’s Yolanda Edwards loves these stretchy flares from Anne Mashburn, which she says are both cheaper and more durable than High Sport’s popular kick pants. “I’ll wear them on every single flight,” she says. “It’s thick cotton with a lot of Lycra, but it’s not a legging, so you don’t feel like you’re wearing exercise clothes.”

Wright says that L.A .brand the Great’s cotton tees are so thin “you could probably fit 12 of them” in your bag. Available in numerous neutral shades, “they’re amazing quality, they’re soft, and they don’t wrinkle like thicker tees do.”

Merino wool is a natural fiber beloved by outdoorsy people for its sweat-wicking and anti-microbial properties. In other words, merino-wool clothes don’t need to be washed as regularly as cotton ones do, which makes them great for travel, says Kelly. She likes dresses from the brand Wool& because “it has cute, fashionable things where you don’t necessarily look like a hiker.”

Cold weather is probably the biggest challenge a light packer can face. Rather than a bulky coat, Burnham (who is currently on a trip that started in Iqaluit in the Canadian Arctic and will finish in tropical Vietnam) carries a packable down jacket from Eddie Bauer that folds into its own pocket, which he says “is just as good as any packing cube.”

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12 Travel Garment Bags to Look Good Everywhere

Be wrinkle-free everywhere you go

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But choosing the best travel garment bag for your needs can be a challenge. There are a lot of options on the market, so we asked an expert about how to find the right one. According to Tumi creative director Victor Sanz, “Your garment bag should be sturdy, functional, and sleek. If you’re frequently traveling by plane, a garment bag that folds to fit carry-on requirements is essential.” He adds, “You want to find the size that will fit all your clothes without having to overfold them and will allow you to reach your destination in style.”

Best Quilted Garment Bag

Mz wallace michael garment bag.

Best Luxury Garment Bag

Tumi alpha garment bag trifold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Timeless Garment Bag

Longchamp boxford garment bag.

Best Packable Garment Bag

Calpak packable garment bag.

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Amazon basics premium garment bag.

Best Durable Garment Bag

Hartmann metropolitan two-garment sleeve.

Best Personalized Garment Bag

Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.

Best Expandable Garment Bag

Samsonite ascella 3.0 softside expandable luggage.

Best Water-Resistant Garment Bag

Stitch ultimate garment bag.

It’s also important to consider bonus features, like pockets and organizational compartments, and, as Sanz notes, “A crucial function is to ensure that you’re able to hang your garment bag when you arrive at your destination, so that you can prepare your outfits as easily as possible and to ensure that all your clothes are crisp.” Keeping all this in mind, we found the 12 best travel garment bags out there today. Once you start using one of these, you’re never going to go back.

MZ Wallace’s signature quilting isn’t limited to the brand’s totes, appearing here in garment bag form. The thin design is extremely lightweight, ideal for quick trips when you need to bring one to three outfits. There is even an exterior pocket for bonus storage.

Dimensions: 22" × 3" × 39"

Materials: Oxford, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I have been interested in a MZ Wallace garment bag for a while. It is perfect! Just right proportions and size. Thoughtful design and construction details.”

Tumi always delivers premium luggage that will last you over a decade, and this garment bag is no exception. Sanz says: “It’s foldable, with a sturdy handle for easy carrying, making it convenient and compact for every type of travel. I also love that it has several zipper pockets, so I can pack my toiletries and other travel essentials all in one bag. When I arrive at my destination, I hang it in the closet and I know that I will be ready to go.”

Dimensions: 15" x 22" x 6"

Materials: Ballistic nylon

What reviewers are saying: “This bag stores so much for a carry on. I was able to comfortably fit 2 suits and more for a destination wedding!”

This duffel has been receiving high praise ever since its release. A few of the reasons it’s so popular: The duffel is carry-on friendly, water-resistant, and has interior and exterior pockets. And those are only a few of its distinguishing features. Choose an original or compact size for the style that suits your needs.

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12"

Materials: Polyester

What reviewers are saying: “The Garment Duffel is a great purchase, especially for anyone in an industry that takes short frequent trips. I was actually able fit quite a bit more clothes than I had anticipated. Took the bag to work and my company bought 20 of them to give to customers. Great purchase.”

Longchamp’s iconic nylon and leather trim takes on a garment bag silhouette. The two-tone design exudes sophistication, with practical touches like a top carry handle, built-in hanger, and front zip pocket.

Dimensions: 23.25" x 41.25"

Materials: Nylon, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend who travels a lot and needed a nice garment bag particularly for his suits. This bag is perfect! It fits his suit as well as a few extra shirts. The fabric is an amazing, durable quality, and the leather details make this product look incredible.”

This garment bag is actually designed to fit inside of your carry-on, rather than serving as a stand-alone piece. The water-resistant exterior protects against spills, and exterior zip pockets hold small accessories. It gets the job done, while taking up the least possible amount of space.

Dimensions: 40" x 19"

What reviewers are saying: “I use this bag when I need to workout at work. I go from a suit to athleticwear in minutes.”

Looking for an affordable option that is available ASAP? Amazon’s garment bag holds up to three suits or dresses and boasts multiple zipper compartments.

Dimensions: 40" x 4" x 20.5"

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this bag in 2019 and it has held up incredibly well since then, performs all functions advertised at a great price value. I have taken it on many flights, buses and train rides and have never had an issue with fitting it in the overhead bin on both longer-haul flights and short budget-airline carriers.”

Hartmann’s garment bag adds contemporary touches to an otherwise traditional design. The result? A chic, useful travel accessory that will stand the test of time. The padded shoulder strap and multiple interior pockets enhance the convenience of this style.

Materials: Nylon

What reviewers are saying: “Hartmann was an anniversary gift from my work place, and I am still proud to own it 35 years later.”

Mark & Graham Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Another convertible duffel, but this time with a personalized touch. That’s right—Mark & Graham lets you monogram your duffel. With a plethora of zippered and snap interior and exterior pockets, this bag gets creative with its storage solutions.

Dimensions: 22" x 10" x 10"

This spinner-style garment bag makes navigating a chaotic airport easy. The ergonomic design has expandable capabilities, as well as various compartments, a hanger bracket, and a pocket for liquids.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 24" x 9.5"

What reviewers are saying: “It’s easy to maneuver and overall great quality and very neat design (many compartments and zippered areas).”

For golfers and non-golfers alike, Stitch makes a duffel that is water- and stain-resistant, and includes a hanger hook, shoulder strap, elastic shoe pockets, and webbed handles. You can even get it customized with your initials.

Dimensions: 22.5" x 11.5" x 12"

What reviewers are saying: “Love it! Fits into the airplane overhead bin, no trouble bringing it along as a carry-on bag. Very sturdy, zippers are tough enough. Shoulder strap is removable. My suit arrived in top shape using this garment bag. Highly recommended.”

Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

Ralph Lauren’s duffel design is the epitome of understated elegance. An accompanying shoulder strap makes it easy to carry around.

Dimensions: 15" x 21.5" x 9"

Materials: Polyester, leather

Gucci Savoy Garment Bag

Embrace the bold luxury aesthetic with a Gucci bag covered in the house’s monogram. Containing a big compartment with a hanger and two zip pockets, this garment bag will hold all your essentials.

Dimensions: 21.5" x 16.1" x 6.7"

Materials: Canvas, leather, cotton

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

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These Backpacks and Duffels Meet Frontier and Spirit Airlines’ Strict Personal Bag Rules—and They’re Under $35

These bags might be small, but shoppers are amazed by how much they can fit inside.

Real Simple / Daisy Rodriguez

I absolutely love to travel anywhere and everywhere, and I get so excited when it’s finally time to start packing for a trip . Even though I’m always excited for my vacations to start, the one thing (other than flying) that causes the most anxiety for me is fearing that Frontier will flag my backpack for its size (even though that’s never happened to me—anxiety rarely makes sense). If you also have upcoming trips where you’re flying with Frontier Airlines or Spirit Airlines, I thought I would flag five personal bags that meet both airlines’ tricky size requirements that you can scoop up. And they’re all under $35 at Amazon.

According to Frontier Airlines , personal bags “can be no larger than 14 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 8 inches long.” The key thing to keep in mind is the bag you bring with you must fit under your seat and within the airlines’ “bag sizer.” Spirit Airlines requires that bags meet the same sizing requirements as Frontier Airlines, but they also note that the inches allowed include “handles and wheels.” And both airlines will measure bags they’re questioning. I’ve watched fellow travelers have to pay hefty fines at the gate because their personal bag is too large for the metal sizer and is instead categorized as a carry-on.

Thankfully, there’s an easy way to skip the bag size stress, and it’s by purchasing any of the five Amazon options highlighted below. Each backpack or duffel will pass the sizing test of both airlines as long as you keep one thing in mind: Don’t overstuff your bag. 

Narwey Packable Duffel Bag

The Narway duffel is available in a whopping 43 colors and patterns, and it’s an Amazon shopper-favorite with nearly 15,300 perfect ratings and 2,100 five-star reviews . It measures 18 inches by 13 inches by 6.3 inches, so neither Frontier nor Spirit will stop you to confirm its size (or if they do, you’ll know you’ll pass the test just fine). You can pack the bag with up to 45 pounds of essentials, according to the brand, and it’s even waterproof. Plus, it has a smaller zippered front pouch, which is a great spot to store your phone or passport to keep both safe and within easy reach. “If you're searching for the perfect personal item for airlines like Spirit, this bag is an absolute winner. With its ideal size, durability, functionality, and stylish design, it ticks all the boxes for a travel bag that seamlessly fits within the airline's restrictions while still providing ample storage space,” wrote one reviewer .

Wandf Foldable Duffel Bag

Similar to the duffel mentioned above, the Wandf bag also meets Frontier and Spirit Airlines’ personal bag requirements because it’s 17.7 inches by 12.6 inches by 6.3 inches. It also has a front zippered pocket to keep must-haves safely tucked away, and the brand points out that it’s made from nylon for extra durability. The weekender also boasts a travel sleeve on the bag that you can easily use to slide it onto a suitcase handle. And you can fold it up when you’re not using it, which makes it easy to put away after traveling. The duffel has nearly 11,000 five-star ratings and almost 1,700 perfect reviews . “I used it for a week trip to Florida and fit all my clothes and shoes,” said one reviewer , while another shopper added that their loved one borrowed the duffel and called it a “Mary Poppins bag” because they could fit so much inside.

Matein Laptop Backpack

“Most recently, I was able to carry two days of clothes, laptop, make-up bag, two small purses, [and] a denim jacket, and still had plenty of space to store things,” wrote one shopper who has flown on Frontier and Spirit Airlines with the Matein laptop backpack. It’s the top-seller in Amazon’s Laptop Backpacks category with 79,000 perfect ratings and a whopping 16,900 five-star reviews , and it’s available in 17 colors. The backpack measures 18 inches by 12 inches by 7.8 inches, and it has three separate zippered compartments and a luggage sleeve on the back. The laptop sleeve accommodates a 15.6-inch computer, the open middle compartment is ideal for clothes, and the smaller front pocket can easily hold your phone, tablet or Kindle, headphones, and additional small essentials. The other bonus about the backpack is it has a built-in external USB port, which you can use to connect your phone and external battery for on-the-go charging. 

Wonhox 16.9-Inch Travel Backpack

Packing a backpack can feel like a game of Tetris because the zipper rarely goes all the way down, but this personal bag solves that problem. The main zipper goes around the perimeter of the bag to allow you to open it completely, which is such a packing game changer. It measures 16.93 inches by 11.8 inches by 7.9 inches, and it even includes a laptop compartment for up to a 14-inch computer. You’ll also find additional zipper pockets inside the main section, as well as a separate shoe compartment and a smaller front pocket. Most importantly, shoppers love it and have awarded the backpack with 8,200 perfect ratings and nearly 1,700 five-star reviews . “I love this backpack! There are so many hidden pockets,” shared one shopper who packed five days worth of items inside for a trip. Plus, they confirmed that the bag is approved for Frontier Airlines flights.

Lovevook 15.6-Inch Travel Backpack

I love when backpacks look and feel elevated, and the multi-tone design and shape of this bag checks those boxes. It’s made from polyester and faux leather, and it’s 16.7 inches by 11.4 inches by 5.7 inches to stay in line with Frontier and Spirit Airlines’ personal bag size requirements. You’ll find an impressive five compartments and 19 pockets, including an anti-theft slot inside the bag, according to the brand, and it can fit up to 15.6-inch laptop safely inside. “This is my new ‘everything’ bag! It is great for work, for a weekend trip, or packing up for a full-day outing,” said one five-star reviewer . They mentioned that they appreciate how many pockets the bag includes, and they also like that “the bag stands solidly upright,” which is something they feel other options “lack,” and they’ve “relieved many compliments on it,” too. Plan to choose your favorite from 10 color combinations. 

Many personal bags on Amazon are priced under $35 and offer plenty of storage and spots to safely stow away laptops. So, pick up a new bag and spend your energy feeling excited about your travels rather than worrying about your personal bag meeting Frontier Airlines’ and Spirit Airlines’ respective strict requirements.

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Mourners and curious visitors stream to the grave to see the embalmed Vladimir Lenin, the famous revolutionary and one-time leader of the Soviet Union.

• Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy

Learn about the events happening at Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy during your trip to Moscow. Wander the parks and gardens while you're in the area.

• Cities near Lytkarino

Dzerzhinskiy

• Places of interest
• Lytkarino Museum of History and Local Lore
• Moscow City
• State Historical Museum
• Armoury Chamber
• Arbat Street
• Moscow State University
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• State Tretyakov Gallery
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Luzhniki Stadium
• Victory Park
• New Tretyakov Gallery - Museum of Modern Art
• Ostankino TV Tower
• Minin and Pozharsky Monument
• Kolomenskoye Church of the Ascension
• Sparrow Hills
• Russian White House
• Novodevichy Convent
• Triumphal Arch
• Battle of Borodino Panorama Museum