lubardy travel backpack review

• 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.

15 Travel Backpacks to Help Streamline Your Next Trip

Now boarding: your most organized self.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But don’t just take it from me. “Being hands-free while traveling is essential, which is why a backpack is the perfect type of bag to use for all trips,” says Matilda Sandstroem, co-founder and designer at Adventurist Bags . “It will also distribute weight better than a one-shoulder bag, which will be crucial for longer travel days.” Plus, Sandstroem points out that a stylish backpack can double as your day bag once you arrive at your destination and is perfect for housing a light layer, camera, or snacks. (Good luck trying to bring that duffle bag to the Trevi fountain...)

Matching Luggage

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

Bottega Veneta Medium Intrecciato Backpack

Luxury Brand

Rimowa flap backpack large.

Monos Metro Backpack

Fjallraven Kånken Classic Backpack

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Amazon’s Choice

Lubardy travel carry on backpack, 40l.

The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack

Best for International Travel

Tortuga outbreaker backpack 40l.

Best Expandable Backpack

Beis the expandable backpack.

To give you even more insight, I combined my own research with Sandstroem’s and that of the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute to bring you the definitive guide to the best travel backpacks. Whether you’re packing a weekender bag or looking for the best bags on Amazon , here are 15 backpacks that make stellar travel companions.

Away Travel is known and loved for its suitcases—I, for one, swear by the bigger carry-on —so you can bet the brand makes a damn good carry-on backpack, too.

Colors: Garnet, Navy, Black, Coast

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches; height: 17.7 inches; depth: 5.9 inches

Customer review: “I needed a backpack that I could use for business travel that would allow me to really pack it in for international work. This bag has a ton of space and several pockets to keep items organized. I recently returned to the office and find that its great as a daily bag for all of my needs. I even get lunch into the main compartment.”

If traveling in style is a priority for you, more power to you. This leather backpack from Bottega Veneta is the best way to take to show your fellow travelers that you have taste.

Colors: Surf, Space, Mud, Black, Ardoise

Dimensions: Width: 11.8 inches; height: 18.1 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Rimowa is like the Rolls Royce of luggage brands. And in case no one has told you lately, you deserve the best of the best.

Colors: Black, Slate Gray

Dimensions: Width: 14.5 inches; height: 17.3 inches; depth: 6.3

See that pouch on the front? It provides the perfect amount of extra storage for easy access to necessities and detaches in a snap—literally.

Colors: 10 options

Dimensions: Width: 11.5 inches; height: 16.5 inches; depth: 6 inches

Customer review: “It looks sharp, I’ve already gotten compliments. It is super spacious inside which is perfect for both travel and in a professional setting since it fits everything from spare shoes to my lunch. The compartments actually make sense for organizing.”

Fjallraven: the bag that everyone has, but no one knows how to pronounce. While these bags don’t offer much in the way of organization or storage, they are extremely durable and available in a ton of colors and sizes.

Colors: 27 options

Dimensions : Width: 10.75 inches x height: 14.5 inches x depth: 4 inches

Customer review: “This Fjallraven has been to and all around Japan with me, and recently I started back to University…It’s not too bulky but surprisingly holds a lot.”

Calpak’s Luka bag is an organizer’s dream because it’s chock-full of pockets. This versatile pack is great for everyday use or as a day bag while traveling.

Colors: 13 options

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches x height: 16 inches x depth: 7 inches

Customer review: “This backpack has been great so far! I use it for daily commutes, and it fits my 16” laptop in that compartment with ease. It is also great for being outdoors, got stuck in the rain and my laptop remained dry.”

A waterproof, high-capacity pack + a clamshell opening – an expensive price tag = the ultimate travel backpack.

Colors: Black, Blue, Grey, or Pink

Dimensions: Width: 13.38 inches x height: 20.74 inches x depth: 7.87 inches

Customer review: “Backpacked for 10 days in Greece with this! My friends bought $100+ backpacks, and mine worked just as well for a fraction of the price. I was able to fit a large packing cube with PLENTY of clothes, two pairs of shoes (sandals), a curling iron, a sweater, and my toiletries in this bag!”

The genius product testers over at the Good Housekeeping Institute rated this the overall best travel backpack . As someone who has regularly used this as a carry-on for nearly six years, I’d have to agree. It stands up to the test of time and is great for short trips or as a day bag.

Colors: Lime, Taupe, or Orange

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches x height: 19.5 inches x depth: 6.5 inches

Customer review: “Awesome backpack. Large, spacious, and full of compartments. Suitable for any type of trip, I love it.”

Calling all fellow backpackers and hostel hoppers! If you’re trekking through Europe, or anywhere else for that matter, it’s best to keep your luggage light. This durable, waterproof Tortuga pack is the largest allowed carry-on for international flights, making it perfect for your next adventure.

Colors: Black

Dimensions: Width: 13. 8 inches x height: 21.7 inches x depth: 7.9 inches

Customer review: “Just returned from a two-week tour of Norway and Iceland, five different hotels, four flights. Outbreaker…made it so easy to effortlessly stay on the move…This was our first carry-on-only trip of this length, and I loved the ease of check-in and airport departure it gave us. With the hip belts to carry most of the weight, we did not suffer any back or shoulder strain.”

If there’s one thing for certain, I don’t need another backpack. But after reading the reviews for this Beis bag...I just might have to get one for myself. It has specialized features like an expanding section and a water bottle holder that can be used in or outside the bag.

Colors: Black or Beige

Dimensions: Width: 13 inches; height: 15 inches; depth: 5-7 inches

Customer review: “Love how much room this backpack has! I took it on a trip to Italy and it was light/compact enough to put in luggage but can fit so many things. The design of this backpack is a 10/10 for me.”

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover bags are super popular right now, and with good reason. Fashionable and versatile, they’re perfect for everyday use or as your designated school bag. Plus, Dagne Dover products are made with Repreve technology, meaning they’re sustainable.

Dimensions: Width: 13.25 inches x height: 17.5 inches x depth: 5.25 inches (for large size)

Customer review: “I love this bag and its many pockets and pouches. I can easily organize everything with its numerous zippers, and it stores my laptop perfectly in the back. It’s super light, which is great for a backpack, but thick and good quality with its neoprene.”

Adventurist Backpacks Adventurist Classic

Not only does Sandstroem design these bags with style in mind, but for every backpack purchased, 25 meals are provided for American families in need.

Colors: 7 options

Dimensions: Width: 13.5 inches; height: 15.5 inches; depth: 6 inches

Customer review: “I’ve had this backpack for almost a year now and I have only good things to say! I got the sand color and even through hiking and using it a lot it still looks great! It’s water resistant so I don’t have to worry about bringing my camera, and it’s also super cute and makes my hiking outfits look great! Can’t recommend it enough, if you’re thinking about getting one, do it!”

L.L. Bean Stowaway Pack

The Good Housekeeping Institute voted this pack as the best lightweight bag . If you’re camping, hiking, or just trying to lighten your load, it’s a fantastic option that’s both durable and spacious.

Colors: Gold, Teal, Loden, Navy, or Black

Dimensions: Width: 10 inches x height: 19 inches x depth: 7 inches

Customer review: “Great bag. Love all the pockets, and it’s lightweight. Like how it can roll into a pouch.”

Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack

At first glance, you might underestimate how much this backpack can hold. But don’t be deceived; it secretly holds a ton of stuff. That’s just one of the many reasons the Good Housekeeping Institute rated this Osprey as the best travel daypack .

Dimensions: Width: 11 inches x height: 18.9 inches x depth: 9.45 inches

Customer review: “As a backpack hoarder, I’m always on the search for the perfect functional backpack. I bought the Osprey Daylite Plus to use on vacations where I’d also need to lug my work laptop along. I wanted something that is light enough to use on hikes and will work as a personal item when flying.”

Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack

Business trips shouldn’t be a chore...well, not more so than the actual business part. But packing for business trips definitely shouldn’t be a pain. Allow Timbuk2 to take the hassle out of packing.

Dimensions: Width: 13.4 inches x height: 20.5 inches x depth: 5.5 inches

Customer review: “After using this pack for a couple weeks commuting, I can confidently say that it’s more functional, well designed, and comfortable than any other pack I’ve owned. The materials and build are incredibly high quality, and it sits perfectly on my back without adding strain, even when fully loaded with a laptop.”

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• Size: Don’t just eyeball it based on what size you think you want; the precise measurements matter. Each airline has its own size restrictions for carry-on bags, and these are particularly varied between domestic and international flights. “ Since you may be flying on a lot of different airlines in the future, it may be best to choose the smallest common denominator that way your backpack is sure to fit no matter which airline you travel with,” Sandstroem says.
• Security and durability: “ With most of us carrying around expensive electronics such as laptops, tablets, and camera gear, it’s important to find a backpack that will adequately protect your belongings,” Sandstroem says. “ Whether you’ll be throwing your bag on the ground, storing it under the seat of the plane, or tossing it in the overhead compartment, make sure to look for something that has both front and back padding.” You’ll also want to look for a bag that offers a padded laptop compartment that will fit your device. Some precautious customers might also opt for a bag that includes locks or some other anti-theft mechanisms.
• Weight and material: The more lightweight, the better. “ It may seem like a couple of pounds won’t make much of a difference, but after hours of traveling, you’ll be happy to be rid of any extra weight,” Sandstroem says, noting that materials like polyester or nylon are both lightweight and durable.
• Organization and features: You might find that a bag with an abundance of pockets or separated sections provides more ease of mind. It’s certainly simpler to keep organized. Or, if you’re someone who keeps their belongings grouped in different pouches, you can probably do with a more open-concept bag. Bear in mind any additional features that might make a difference for you, like a key leash, water bottle pocket, shoe bag, or chest straps.

Meet the Experts

Matilda Sandstroem is the co-founder and primary designer for Adventurist Bags. The emerging brand is based in Denver and focuses on minimalist travel bags. For every bag purchased, Adventurist Bags donates 25 meals to Americans in need via non-profit Feeding America.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

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.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve also fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be—the difference is noticeable—and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. But if you think you would struggle carrying this model, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

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 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.

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

by Kit Dillon

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.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

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Lubardy Travel Laptop Backpack 40L Flight Approved Carry on Backpack for Men Women

Product details

About this item.

• ✈【Flight Approved Carry on Backpack】: Size of travel backpack: 20.47*13.38*7.87 inches. Capacity: 40L. This luggage backpack is meet the allowed maximum size of most IATA flights and also fits in the overhead compartment and the underseat in flight. The portable opening facilitates you to quickly pass the airport security check. It also has built-in elastic bands to keep your clothes from falling out. This travel backpack is great for flight travel, camping, hiking, college, etc.
• ✈【With 3 Storage Bags & Wet Pocket】: The carry on backpack comes with extra 3 storage bags that are great for organizing your clothes when packing for a trip. Full mesh design for clearly seeing items and easier to find them. It also can be as a laundry bag to protect your clothes from tangling. The travel backpack is equipped with a front wet pocket that is made of high-density waterproof material. It is large enough to store wet clothes or toiletries.
• ✈【Large Capacity & Well Organized】: The travel weekend backpack with many compartments is meet the needs of daily & trips. It has a spacious main compartment to store lots including 5 to 8 clothes, shoes, books, and so many other items. One laptop compartment holds laptops up to 17.3 inches. One wet pocket for toiletries and wet items. A front compartment with various pockets can store small items. One side pocket for easy access essentials like a water bottle or umbrella.
• ✈【Practical & Comfortable Design】: The handles are set on top and one side, which allows an easy switch between backpack and suitcase. The luggage belt on the back allows be slid over the luggage tube. The reflective strip on the back of the travel backpack makes it safe to travel at night. Breathable sponge mesh design on the backside and shoulder straps help for the air convection, ventilation, and heat elimination and help relieve the stress from your shoulder.
• ✈【Durable & Multipurpose】: The personal item travel bag is made of high-quality water-repellent fabric, lightweight, waterproof, and anti-wrinkle. Sturdy explosion-proof YKK zipper and upgraded reinforced stitching make it last longer. This stylish luggage backpack can be used as a laptop backpack, outdoor travel backpack, business backpack, college daypack. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us, we will give you a satisfactory solution within 24 hours.

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• Seller who offers good customer service
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ 20 October 2021
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09MLMBTGW

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Product description.

40L Travel Backpack Carry On Backpack for Men Women 17 Inch Laptop Backpack 1. This travel backpack is large enough to carry all essential items, such as clothes, iPad, umbrellas, books, bottles, tablet, laptop, etc. it is ideal for school, work, or travel. 2.Compared with other similar travel backpacks, this luggage backpack comes with extra 3 storage bags to make your item organized and improve your travel quality. 3.A lot of compartments help you organize all your stuff to make you travel smarter. This overnight backpack is also equipped with a wet and dry separation pocket to store wet items. 4.Multiple carrying options to offer you an easy trip. You can carry this carry on bag as a backpack or suitcase or fit on the luggage's handle. 5.This is a multi-purpose bag suitable for men and women, it is the perfect choice as a gift that can give it to family, friends or lovers. Feature Material : Water-resistant fabric Color: Black/Grey/Blue Weight:2.53 lbs Capacity: 40L Dimension: 20.47*13.38*7.87 inch Fit Laptop Size: 15.6 inch, 16 inch, 17 inch, 17.3inch Occasions: Airplane Travel, Vacation, hikes, Camping, School, College, Casual, Business, Shopping, Leisure trip, Outdoor Hiking Camping Overnight, etc. Large Capacity & Roomy Compartments 1 180 degrees opening spacious main compartment with 3 packing cubes for your clothes and other daily essentials for 5-7 days trip. 1 back compartment with a well-padded sleeve offers enough and safe space for your 17.3" laptop/tablet/iPad. 1 wet and dry separation compartment for you to store wet items. 1 side pocket for easy access essentials, can hold water bottle and umbrella. 1 front pocket with several front functional pockets, you can hold your small items perfectly, such as laptop accessories, phones, keys, pens, etc. Package Includes *1 x Travel Backpack *3 x Storage Bag

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The 10 best travel backpacks for women of 2022.

Heading out on the road for a long trip? A travel backpack will do you a world of good. Learn all about the best travel backpacks for women in 2022.

• Dimensions 12.2x7x18 in
• Material Canvas
• Dimensions 20.47x13.38x7.87 in
• Material NA
• Dimensions 16.9”x11.2”x7.5”
• Color 5 options
• Dimensions 12.6”L 17.3”H 8.3”D
• Material Nylon
• Dimensions 11.4"x 7"x 15.7"
• Color 7 options
• 9.32 /10 1. Editors choice: EMPSIGN Backpack for Women
• 9.80 /10 2. Premium pick: AMA DABLAM Canvas Backpack
• 9.21 /10 3. Best value: FALANKO Backpack for Women
• 9.57 /10 4. Coowoz Large Travel Backpack Women
• 9.62 /10 5. Bagsmart Travel Backpack for Women
• 9.72 /10 6. Hap Tim Backpack
• 9.87 /10 7. Vintage Backpack Travel Laptop Backpack
• 9.92 /10 8. HFSX Vintage Backpack Anti Theft Backpack
• 9.96 /10 9. Lubardy Travel Backpack
• 9.75 /10 10. LOVEVOOK Backpack for Women

Travel has a way of complicating everything. Things that are ordinarily simple while you’re working from a home base seem to become messier while you’re on the move. But a quality travel backpack can help travelers to stay organized and put together as they go. The best travel backpacks for women are going to offer plenty of organization compartments in order to keep your belongings squared away. They’re also going to offer all-day comfort with features like padded shoulders and soft fabrics. And they should come with convenient utilities like a USB port for quick access to your charger, and a strap for your glasses.

1. EMPSIGN Backpack for Women

Every traveler needs a convenient backpack that latches onto their luggage and can easily be stored under the airplane seat or as a carry on. This type of luggage is versatile, stress-free, and intended to be a convenient travel piece. And the EMPSIGN Backpack for Women is the perfect pick. This piece of luggage can hold a laptop that’s as big as 16.2 inches. It measures 16.9 by 11.2 by 7.5 inches in size, making it a great pick for just about any flight. It’s also lightweight, coming in at just 1.86 pounds, keeping you prepared without providing extra baggage.

The EMPSIGN Backpack for Women also comes with safety features like RFID blocking, which means that it can help to protect your credit cards from thieves. This is exactly the piece-of-mind technology that travelers need, since they’re often on the road in unfamiliar territory.

In addition to providing security features, this backpack also comes with a USB port for convenient and easy-access charging. And it even comes in five different colors. That’s right! USers can take their pick from several variations of black, tan, or even a flower print, depending on their preferences. The style of this backpack is definitely a quality that sets it apart from competitive travel backpacks. Users can either rely on the handle that comes with this backpack, or the back straps for all-day comfort. Finally, this product comes with several different compartments that make organization easy and convenient.

• 15.6-16.2 inch laptop capacity
• RFID blocking
• 1.86 pounds
• Dimensions: 16.9”x11.2”x7.5”
• Material: NA
• Color: 5 options
• Laptop Compartment: Yes
• Brand: EMPSIGN
• Multi-purpose
• Luggage strap
• Pocket storage
• Easy access compartments

2. AMA DABLAM Canvas Backpack

Some travelers prefer the comfort of a soft backpack with a charming look. A product like the Ama Dablam Canvas Laptop Backpack is a great pick for those who want extra backpack storage and a comfortable way to carry it. This bag is made out of canvas, making it sturdy and comfortable to wear. But it isn’t the most weather-resistant material.

What this backpack lacks in weather-resistance, however, it makes up for with organization and storage. Users can expect to take full-advantage of this backpack's 30 liters of space. It also has multiple sleeves, and storage compartments to keep you organized while you’re on the go. Because of this, it’s a great travel backpack but it also blends seamlessly into the world of work and school. And versatility is key when it comes to finding the right luggage.

The Ama Dablam Canvas Laptop Backpack is capable of fitting laptops that are as large as 17-inches in length. It comes with a 15-inch shoulder drop. It also offers users a glasses hook, in order to allow them to keep their sunglasses free of conflict. And the sturdy zipper closures make this a fabulous product for those who simply want to keep their belongings contained.

This product comes in 4 different colors. It measures 12.2 by 7 by 18 inches in size. It’s comfortable against the skin. And it comes with a functional and effective water bottle compartment. Overall, this is a terrific pick for anyone who wants a little bit of extra storage, and a sturdy material to fight abrasions and punctures.

• 17" sleeve
• 15" shoulder drop
• Zipper closures
• Glasses hook
• Dimensions: 12.2x7x18 in
• Material: Canvas
• Brand: Ama Dablam
• Soft to the touch
• Waterbottle compartment
• Suave colors
• Construction

3. FALANKO Backpack for Women

A Lot of the time, travelers have to trade in style for efficiency. Instead of picking the travel items that look fabulous, you might have to opt for a less-appealing style because of the organization and functionality of a product. But the Falanko Backpack for Women allows you to take the best of both worlds. This backpack comes with the eye-catching style that every woman loves. But it’s also full of unique storage compartments, anti-theft technologies, and weather resistant fabrics. In fact, you can expect to fit a 15.6-inch laptop into this backpack without any issue. It comes with a wid top for the convenient storage of large items. It also features a USB charging port, and RFID anti-theft technology, in order to keep your belongings safe.

Measuring 11.4 by 7 by 15.7 inches, this backpack also offers a large amount of storage space, which is great for those who prefer to keep many of their personal items on their person. A large backpack like this one can be used as a carry-on item. But it isn’t so small that you won’t be able to pack the necessities inside of it. The overall capacity is 20 liters, which is enough for the basics.

While most of this backpack’s features are completely unbeatable, there is one quirk that we don’t love. The straps have a tendency to loosen up or even come loose over time. But other than this quality, this backpack is nearly perfect for travelers and adventurers alike.

• Fits 15.6" laptop
• Water-resistant
• RFID anti-theft
• Dimensions: 11.4"x 7"x 15.7"
• Color: 7 options
• Brand: FALANKO
• Organization
• Convenience
• Straps tend to loosen up

4. Coowoz Large Travel Backpack Women

One of the challenging things about living out of a backpack is that it can be really easy to lose things. Either you leave them behind, or they get swallowed by your disorganized bag, making it impossible to keep yourself feeling put-together. But with a front-opening backpack like the Coowoz Large Travel Backpack for Women, this issue is essentially non-existent. Instead of fishing around in the darkness of this backpack, you can unzip the front of it to see the contents clearly with your eyes. This backpack also has mesh pockets, and a number of storage compartments that make it easy to separate items that need to be easily accessible like your phone or wallet.

Another feature that we love about this backpack is the shoe compartment. Shoes are one of the hardest things to pack. And, since we use them for walking, we don’t always want them to be touching our other belongings. But the Coowoz Large Travel Backpack for Women comes with its very own shoe compartment in order to give you the space and isolation that you need for a pair of sneakers or heels.

The Coowoz Large Travel Backpack for Women weighs 2.2 pounds. It measures 12.2 by 6.69 by 6.5 inches in size. And it comes with a polyester material build, making it quick-drying and efficient against the elements. It even comes in 6 different colors, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your tastes. Just keep in mind that the lighter colors are more prone to staining than the dark ones.

• Large capacity
• Shoe compartment
• USB charger port
• Dimensions: 12.2x6.69x6.5 in
• Material: Polyester
• Brand: Coowoz
• Perfect for travel
• Anti-theft pocket
• Chest strap
• Lighter colors prone to staining

5. Bagsmart Travel Backpack for Women

Most backpacks seem to come with a select number of features. But they almost always lack something. Maybe they don’t fit the biggest laptops. Perhaps they’re missing RFID technology, or there’s no convenient charging port. But the Bagsmart Travel Backpack for Women has it all. This backpack comes in two different sizes, allowing you to either fit a 15.6 or 17.3-inch laptop inside. It also comes with an internal pocket that protects your belongings with RFID technology. And it even has a small, discrete anti-theft pocket in order to allow you to keep important items hidden from wandering eyes.

We also love that the Bagsmart Travel Backpack for Women comes with EVA padding on the bottom of the bag. Let’s face it, most of us have clumsy moments. Or the havoc of travel can quickly bump your bag. But this added layer of protection helps to keep the contents of your backpack safe while you’re on the move. This backpack is also expandable. The large version can easily switch between a 28 liter and a 35 liter version, giving you excess space when you need it the most.

The Bagsmart Travel Backpack for Women measures 7.5 by 13 by 18.5 inches in size. It comes in either pink or black. And the polyester material out of which it is made is quick drying and moisture resistant. When you wrap all of these features up together and stick them in a bag, it makes the resulting product nearly irresistible. The only feature that we didn’t love was the side-pocket construction.

• Fits 17.3" laptop
• Eva padding
• Dimensions: 7.5 x 13 x18.5 in
• Brand: Bagsmart
• 2 size options
• Side pockets

6. Hap Tim Backpack

One of our favorite travel backpack picks is the Ham Tim Backpack for Women. This product comes with an extremely unique look due to the lower pocket, and the asymmetrical design. The color combinations that are used to create the style are also easy to love. And then the functionality of this product is tough to beat.

In fact, the Hap Tim Backpack for Women comes with tons of storage capacity, making it a great product for travel, work, school, and overnight trips. It comes with shock-absorbing straps in order to protect you and the contents of your bag from becoming dented or damaged while you’re on the move. And the wide opening of this backpack makes it relatively easy to find odds and ends as you go.

This backpack measures 17.48 by 13.35 by 3.43 inches in size, which is small enough to be a carry-on item on most airplanes. It is also made with a synthetic fabric, which means that it’s substantially more weather-resistant than organic cotton bags. It’s actually entirely waterproof, which is essential for those who spend a lot of time outside. This feature is designed to keep electronics, clothing, and other personal items protected while you’re traveling. And it even comes in 8 different colors, which is one of the largest selections available. While we would prefer a little bit more stiffness in the pockets and the fabric, overall, this bag does a good job of providing organization and protection for travelers.

• Large storage capacity
• Shock-absorbing straps
• 100% satisfaction guarantee
• Wide opening
• Dimensions: 17.48 x 13.35 x 3.43 in
• Material: Synthetic
• Brand: Hap Tim
• Unique style
• Ideal for traveling
• There could be more stiffness

7. Vintage Backpack Travel Laptop Backpack

Everyone loves a backpack with a vintage style. The sleek build of the product makes you feel like you’re using something out of a history movie. But, today, it’s possible to find a backpack with all of the contemporary conveniences that adopt the style of the vintage market. The Yalundisi Vintage Backpack for Traveli is the perfect example. This product comes with a luggage strap, curved straps, and ample storage. It’s even capable of holding a 15.6-inch laptop. But from the outside of the backpack, it looks like a classic item from the 1950s.

The Yalundisi Vintage Backpack for Travel also comes with a USB charging port to give users easy access to battery packs while their on the go. And the padded shoulder straps give users a little bit of extra comfort and support. This is an essential feature when it comes to carrying around heavy loads. Measuring 16.1 by 12.2 by 6.3 inches in size, the Yalundisi Vintage Backpack for Travel provides a fair amount of space for items like your tablet or laptop, clothing for a day or two, and there’s even space for pens, or other trinkets.

The Yalundisi Vintage Backpack for Travel can also be found in three different colors. And it even comes with a 30-day guarantee in order to support the wary buyer. If that isn’t reason enough to be curious about this product, it may also be helpful to know that the fabric out of which it is made is polyester, which makes it resistant to mild weather and moisture.

• Padded shoulder straps
• Dimensions: 16.1"H x 12.2"L x 6.3"W
• Brand: Yalundisi
• 30-day guarantee
• Curved straps
• Flimsy straps

8. HFSX Vintage Backpack Anti Theft Backpack

The HFSX Vintage Backpack for Women is a fabulous travel backpack for anyone who values a durable, functional, and cute backpacking system. This product comes with all of the bells and whistles that one could possibly desire. Yet it also offers a stylish and attractive build, giving users a way to express themselves on the go. Available in 6 stunning colors, users can take their pick from iconic options like pink, blue, purple, gray, and more. The basic pattern, paired with high-quality materials and a sturdy build is certain to impress nearly anyone.

We also love the HSFX Vintage Backpack for Women because there’s no shortage of convenient features in its design. You can easily take advantage of the USB charging port to keep your electronics fully operational while you’re on buses and airplanes. The convenient headphone jack allows you to keep your phone or music device safely tucked inside of your pack. And the anti-theft equipment is enough of a reason for any traveler to take a second look at this product. In fact, this product comes with a durable metal shackle in order to prevent thieves from getting into their belongings. This makes it a good product for international travel, or travel to places with heightened crime.

But just because this backpack is capable of protecting your gear doesn’t mean that it isn’t fabulous looking or short of additional features. The HSFX Vintage Backpack for Women comes with a layer of water-resistance. It also gives users a large capacity compartment for the items of their choosing. And it can even fit a 15.6-inch laptop inside without any hiccups.

• USB charging, headphone jack
• Anti-theft design
• 2.29 pounds
• Dimensions: 17 x 13.5 x 7 in
• Brand: HFSX
• Water-resistance
• Long-lasting

9. Lubardy Travel Backpack

When it comes to finding a travel backpack, sometimes one of the most important features you’ll need is capacity. Without ample storage space, you’ll end up leaving some of your favorite items at home. But with a backpack like the Lubardy Travel Backpack, you’ll be able to bring everything your heart desires. This backpack comes with 40 full liters of capacity, giving most users plenty of nooks and crannies in which you can place your things.

The Lubardy Travel Backpack can also fit a 17-inch laptop inside. It comes with three packing cubes, making it easy to stay organized even when your backpack is being jostled around. And once you arrive at your destination, you can easily unpack by removing the storage cubes from the inside of your backpack. 

This backpack also comes with YKK zippers that are sturdy and reliable, so you won’t have to worry about them coming undone while you’re on the go. This backpack comes in three colors. It also measures 20.47 by 13.38 by 7.87 inches. And it is even made to be waterproof. So, the adventurous souls can take this backpack hiking, for a stroll through the rain, or even into the shower without having to worry about damaging the contents of their backpack. Our only negative note is that this backpack can be a little bit on the rigid side at first, but with time it loosens up. And then you have a comfortable, well-designed, durable backpack that can accommodate most needs.

• Comes with 3 packing cubes
• Fits 17.3" laptops
• Dimensions: 20.47x13.38x7.87 in
• Brand: Lubardy
• Weather resistant

10. LOVEVOOK Backpack for Women

One of the cutest travel backpacks on the market is the Lovevook Laptop Backpack for Women. This backpack comes with a clever design that allows you to easily shift between using it as a purse and a backpack. This makes it easy to maneuver while you’re in tight places like on airplanes and in buses. This backpack also measures 12.6 by 17.4 bu 8.3 inches in size, making it fairly large. When it comes time to open it up, you’ll find that the top compartment is wide and easy to access, which is great for those who have a tendency to lose items inside.

The Loveook Laptop Backpack for Women easily fits a 15.6-inch laptop inside. It comes with a USB charing port. And it’s even a water-resistant product, which means that it’ll be able to handle light wind and moisture well. This backpack also weighs just 1.81 pounds which is quite a bit lighter than some backpacks. It’s also made with a nylon, which is a great material against punctures and abrasions.

Lovevook even offers a 30-day no questions asked return policy. So, if you receive it and it doesn’t fit how you’d like, no problem! You can ship it back for a full refund. But, in the case that you end up keeping it, this backpack also comes with a 2-year warranty, which guarantees your product from poorly-constructed parts. Who doesn’t love a promise like that? The only thing that would make this backpack better is a sturdy hip belt that can offset the weight of your belongings.

• Wide open top
• 1.81 pounds
• Water resistant
• Dimensions: 12.6”L 17.3”H 8.3”D
• Material: Nylon
• Brand: Lovevook
• USB and headphone port
• 30-day no reason return
• 2-year warranty
• No hip belt

Have you ever found yourself on the road with a messenger bag, a bulky purse, or some other type of item that’s just completely inefficient? Do you know what it’s like to lose belongings because you’re unable to stay organized? If so, you may need a travel backpack . The best travel backpacks for women are intuitive, ergonomic, and built for comfort. But they also come with a variety of different features that need to be considered.

Travel Backpack Organization Compartments

While some backpacks come with just the basics, the best travel backpacks usually come with a variety of different organization compartments. You might find one for your water bottle, one for your wallet, one for your laptop, and several others for important items that need to be easily accessible. It’s possible to get away with a travel backpack that just offers the basics, but nearly everyone agrees that organizational compartments help to enhance the travel experience.

Safety Features

One trend that’s growing in the travel market is equipping bags with important safety features. This can help to protect you from theft, or pickpockets while you’re on the move. Safety features like RFID protection can help to keep your valuable information out of the wandering eyes of strangers. Some backpacks also come with locking zippers, or rei-inforced pockets that are slash deterrent. This can be a fabulous tool to use while you’re traveling with important items like your wallet and your passport.

Backpack Comfort

Another important travel backpack feature is going to be comfort. While you’re shopping for the perfect pick you’ll want to look for key terms like “padded shoulder straps” and a “hip belt.” These features may help to keep the backpack user from becoming uncomfortable after carrying a heavy load around all day. Instead, they’re designed to provide support and stability for lasting comfort.

Backpack Style

A travel backpack can offer users a stylish way to feel current.While traveling, we’re often working with limited wardrobes and accessories. But if you end up with a high-quality backpack, you can expect its style to take the place of some of the items that you’d usually use on a day-to-day basis.

Weight Distribution

Finally, in order to keep your back from hurting, it can be helpful to pick a travel backpack that’s designed to distribute the load in an effective way. Some backpacks come with a hip belt in order to refocus the weight on your lower body. Others may come with an internal frame in order to prevent books from stabbing your back. Proper weight distribution allows users to stay comfortable for longer while wearing a backpack.

Resources—   USA Troop London , Kids Health , The Dirtbag

Based in Denver, I love the outdoors in all of its forms. With nearly 4 years of experience in content creation, I specialize in product reviews and personal narratives. Follow me on instagram @h1kertrash.

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Lubardy Travel Laptop Backpack 40L Flight Approved Carry on Backpack for Men Women

About this item.

• ✈【Flight Approved Carry on Backpack】: Size of travel backpack: 20.47*13.38*7.87 inches. Capacity: 40L. This luggage backpack is meet the allowed maximum size of most IATA flights and also fits in the overhead compartment and the underseat in flight. The portable opening facilitates you to quickly pass the airport security check. It also has built-in elastic bands to keep your clothes from falling out. This travel backpack is great for flight travel, camping, hiking, college, etc.
• ✈【With 3 Storage Bags & Wet Pocket】: The carry on backpack comes with extra 3 storage bags that are great for organizing your clothes when packing for a trip. Full mesh design for clearly seeing items and easier to find them. It also can be as a laundry bag to protect your clothes from tangling. The travel backpack is equipped with a front wet pocket that is made of high-density waterproof material. It is large enough to store wet clothes or toiletries.
• ✈【Large Capacity & Well Organized】: The travel weekend backpack with many compartments is meet the needs of daily & trips. It has a spacious main compartment to store lots including 5 to 8 clothes, shoes, books, and so many other items. One laptop compartment holds laptops up to 17.3 inches. One wet pocket for toiletries and wet items. A front compartment with various pockets can store small items. One side pocket for easy access essentials like a water bottle or umbrella.
• ✈【Practical & Comfortable Design】: The handles are set on top and one side, which allows an easy switch between backpack and suitcase. The luggage belt on the back allows be slid over the luggage tube. The reflective strip on the back of the travel backpack makes it safe to travel at night. Breathable sponge mesh design on the backside and shoulder straps help for the air convection, ventilation, and heat elimination and help relieve the stress from your shoulder.
• ✈【Durable & Multipurpose】: The personal item travel bag is made of high-quality water-repellent fabric, lightweight, waterproof, and anti-wrinkle. Sturdy explosion-proof YKK zipper and upgraded reinforced stitching make it last longer. This stylish luggage backpack can be used as a laptop backpack, outdoor travel backpack, business backpack, college daypack. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us, we will give you a satisfactory solution within 24 hours.

Looking for specific info?

Product details.

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 19.99 x 33.99 x 51.99 cm; 1.15 kg
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ Sept. 3 2023
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CDBZD974
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult

Product description

40L Travel Backpack Carry On Backpack for Men Women 17 Inch Laptop Backpack 1. This travel backpack is large enough to carry all essential items, such as clothes, iPad, umbrellas, books, bottles, tablet, laptop, etc. it is ideal for college, work, or travel. 2.Compared with other similar travel backpacks, this luggage backpack comes with extra 3 storage bags to make your item organized and improve your travel quality. 3.A lot of compartments help you organize all your stuff to make you travel smarter. This overnight backpack is also equipped with a wet and dry separation pocket to store wet items. 4.Multiple carrying options to offer you an easy trip. You can carry this carry on bag as a backpack or suitcase or fit on the luggage's handle. 5.This is a multi-purpose bag suitable for men and women, it is the perfect choice as a gift that can give it to family, friends or lovers. Feature Material : Water-resistant fabric Color: Black/Grey/Blue Weight:2.53 lbs Capacity: 40L Dimension: 20.47*13.38*7.87 inch Fit Laptop Size: 15.6 inch, 16 inch, 17 inch, 17.3inch Occasions: Airplane Travel, Vacation, hikes, Camping, College, Casual, Business, Shopping, Leisure trip, Outdoor Hiking Camping Overnight, etc. Large Capacity & Roomy Compartments 1 180 degrees opening spacious main compartment with 3 packing cubes for your clothes and other daily essentials for 5-7 days trip. 1 back compartment with a well-padded sleeve offers enough and safe space for your 17.3" laptop/tablet/iPad. 1 wet and dry separation compartment for you to store wet items. 1 side pocket for easy access essentials, can hold water bottle and umbrella. 1 front pocket with several front functional pockets, you can hold your small items perfectly, such as laptop accessories, phones, keys, pens, etc. Package Includes *1 x Travel Backpack *3 x Storage Bag

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Lubardy Review

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

When purchasing a product, price is the consumer's primary concern. At present, Lubardy has 27 products for sale. Lubardy products range in price from $14.59 to $104.86, and the average price of all the products is about $31.88.

You can confidently purchase Lubardy products from the seller LieDe. The brand holds an average rating of 4.6, testifying to its excellent reputation.

Lubardy Best Sellers

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Laptop Bag for Women 15.6 inch Laptop Tote Bag Leather Classy Computer Briefcase for Work Waterproof Handbag Professional Shoulder Bag Women Business Office Bag Large Capacity Black

Lubardy Laptop Backpack 17 Inch TSA Friendly Travel Backpack for Men & Women Large Waterproof Business College Backpack Gaming Computer Backpack with USB Charging Hole & RFID Blocking Pocket, Black

Lubardy Laptop Bag 15.6 Inch for Men Women Waterproof Shoulder Bag Large Laptop Case with Cable Organize Bag College Business 14-15.6 Inch Laptop Carrier Pink

Lubardy Camera Bag Professional DSLR SLR Mirrorless Camera Backpack 14 Inch Waterproof Laptop Backpack Anti-Theft Camera Case with Rain Cover Large Capacity Photography Backpack for Men Women, Black

Lubardy Beach Bag for Women Large Beach Bags Waterproof Sandproof with Bottom Board Beach Tote Bag for Work/Travel/Swim/Pool (Large-40L-Beige)

Lubardy Laptop Messenger Bag for Men 15.6 Inch Laptop Bag Waterproof Laptop Briefcase Large Lightweight Computer Bag Satchel Shoulder Bags for Work Business Travel College, Black

Lubardy Makeup Bag Leather Cosmetic Bag Waterproof Makeup Pouch Portable Makeup Travel Bag Multifunctional Cosmetic Organizer Bag for Women, 3-Pack, Dark Black

Lubardy Computer Backpack Black

Lubardy Brand New Laptop Backpack Pink

Lubardy Rolling Laptop Bag Women Men Laptop Tote Bag

Mens Messenger Bag Vintage 15.6 Inch Waterproof Leather Laptop Briefcase Large Satchel Shoulder Bag Retro Office College Computer Bag, Brown

Insulated Lunch Bag 24-Can (15L) Lunch Box for Men/Women Freezable Cooler Cooling Tote Bag with Adjustable Shoulder Strap Reusable，Black

Laptop Sleeve Case 13.3-14 Inch Waterproof Durable Business Computer Carrying Bag Compatible with MacBook Air/Pro HP/Asus/ThinkPad Notebook Protective Tablet Handle Laptop Bag Black

Mens Messenger Bag 15.6 Inch Waterproof Laptop Briefcase Large Satchel Shoulder Bag Office Travel Business Computer Laptop Bag Cable Organizer Bag Set 2pcs,Black

Laptop Sleeve 14 inch Laptop Case Waterproof Handle Laptop Bag Protective Business Computer Carrying Bag Compatible with 13.3-14 Inch Laptop/Chromebook/Notebook, Pink

Lubardy FAQs

Yes, Lubardy is a legitmate brand on Amazon. After conducting a comprehensive analysis of 13,625 customer reviews for Lubardy products on Amazon, we have determined its average rating. With a strong performance and good quality, Lubardy has received an average rating of 4.6 from numerous buyers, indicating that Lubardy are trustworthy and live up to their claims. Therefore, it is safe to make purchases from Lubardy on Amazon.

Amazon has strict policies and safety measures in place that ensure only legitimate sellers and products are allowed on their platform. It also provides a secure payment gateway and offers buyer protection, ensuring your transaction is safe. In the unlikely event that there's an issue with your purchase, Amazon's customer service and return policies are designed to protect your interests.

If you're interested in Lubardy and want to find more Lubardy products, you can follow the steps below:

• Go back to FindThisBest's homepage.
• Type Lubardy in the search box and hit Enter to see the search results.
• Find and click the correct Lubardy to go to the new page.
• Select the products you want in the Lubardy buying guide, and take a glance at the prices and features of the products.
• View the products interest you on Amazon to read the customer reviews and check the ratings. Besides, you can hit the "brand" to find more Lubardy products.

We analyze millions of Lubardy products reviews and customer reviews to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We have a professional team with decades of experience to test the products, which can help ensure that we provide our readers with accurate advice and best recommendations.

There are usually 5 to 10 products in a brand buying guide. We found 27 Lubardy products for sale, 16 of which were analyzed in detail and recommended to customers.

• Go to the Lubardy page.
• Select the product you want in the Lubardy buying guide, and then view the product on Amazon. For example, if you are interested in the top 1 product Travel Backpack for Men Women 17 Inch Flight Appro... , you can view it on Amazon page.
• Place your order on Amazon.

Our mission is to provide you with the most up-to-date and objective information about the Lubardy products, helping you make more informed buying decisions. We recommend best choices of the products from the Lubardy brand, helping you make better shopping choices with less time and energy.

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Matein Travel Review

• Laptop Protection - 30% 6.0
• Comfort and Fit - 20% 7.0
• Storage - 20% 7.0
• Ease of Use - 20% 8.0
• Versatility - 10% 6.5

Our Verdict

Compare to similar products, our analysis and test results.

The Matein Travel is different not only because of its price point but also because of how easy it is to use. Easy-pull zippers never get stuck, and sneaky features like a detachable key ring and USB port up its game even more.

Performance Comparison

Laptop Protection

This pack is well-padded. There are two padded pockets that are both large enough to hold 15-inch laptops. Within the larger of the two, there is a dedicated laptop slot with additional padding and a velcro tab to secure the computer in place. It works really well and keeps the laptop stable in transit.

During testing, our electronics stood up to the day-to-day bumps and jostles of daily commutes between work, school, and home. We even inadvertently toppled the pack off a 2-foot ledge without any damage to the contents. There isn't any formal suspension system that buffers the laptop from the bottom of the bag, but we also didn't encounter any serious issues with it. If you are really concerned about carrying super sensitive equipment, you could consider a different option but we found the padding to be totally sufficient for everyday use with regular laptops.

As for protection from the elements, the exterior fabric is water-resistant. We found that it kept contents dry in moderate rainfall even when the fabric started to soak through. The thickness of the fabric as well as the padded layer underneath create a substantial barrier.

In our experience, as with many packs, the weakest parts of the weather resistance are the zippers. They are not waterproof, and there is no additional barrier once moisture gets through. Having said that, unless you get caught in a serious downpour, your equipment should stay protected, even if the pack needs some time to dry out.

Comfort and Fit

The Matein pack is also surprisingly comfortable. It has three pads on the back — two on top over each shoulder blade and one on the bottom that runs the width of the lumbar area. The straps are about three inches wide and lightly padded. All these features together make for a comfortable carry.

There is no internal rigid structure, which we appreciate for the most part. Our only issue with it is that folders and larger spiral notebooks don't have any structure to lean against so they sometimes get a little mushed. On the exterior, the shoulder straps are easy to adjust. We didn't find it to be the most breathable pack during commutes on warmer days, but all things considered, it performed well.

The storage of this pack is excellent. It has one dedicated laptop pocket with a sleeve. In practice, we found that this pocket can safely hold two computers. On top of that, the second larger pocket can hold an additional laptop or tablet (not that people are typically carrying three separate computers, but the capacity is there).

There are also several auxiliary pockets that are very useful. Each of the two main compartments has large subpockets that easily hold chargers, headphones, and notebooks. There are also two smaller front pockets (one larger than the other) that are great for pens, pencils, tissues, earbuds, or other small items. There is even a hidden pocket in the lumbar foam pad that sits directly against your back. If you are traveling, you could stash items in here that you wouldn't want anyone else to be able to get to while you're wearing the bag, like a passport or wallet.

This model also comes equipped with a built-in but detachable key ring so you can easily keep track of your keys. The two exterior mesh water bottle pockets work for skinny bottles but won't hold wider bottles like a Nalgene.

Ease of Use

We love how easy this pack is to use. The zippers are one of our favorite features. They opened and closed so easily and never got stuck in our experience. It is very satisfying to zip and unzip the pockets of this pack. We also appreciate the different ways we could carry the pack. There are two handles at the top — a more substantial one if you really overload on weight and a standard piece of webbing to hang the bag on a hook. There is also a strip of webbing on the back that slides easily over the handle of your favorite piece of luggage for moving through an airport.

In addition, there is an exterior USB port and interior cable that allows you to connect your own power bank and charge your devices. This ability to give your phone a bit of extra juice on the go could be a nice bonus for some users.

Versatility

We really came to enjoy the functional but modern style of the Matein Travel . It comes in a variety of solid colors as well as a few more playful prints, so there is an option for most people in terms of the exterior fabric. It fits in both on a high school or college campus as well as at the office.

It looks a little techy, especially with the external USB port, but we were happy to carry it around to many different places throughout the day. It's not especially flashy, so if you are looking to really stand out, there are more exciting options out there but our testers rated it favorably in terms of its aesthetics and versatility.

Should You Buy the Matein Travel?

We would recommend the Matein Travel to pretty much anyone. It's designed as a laptop bag but could end up being your favorite backpack for school as well. It looks good for adults and adolescents and will keep electronics protected. Auxiliary pockets and easy access to contents make it a breeze to use on the move. It could even be used as a gym bag if you wanted to use one of the large compartments for clean clothes and the other for post-workout wear. For its price point, it's really hard to beat this bag.

What Other Laptop Backpacks Should You Consider?

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I Spent 10 Days in Thailand and the Maldives With Just a Carry-on Thanks to This Roomy Duffel Backpack

It went through four flights, a boat ride, a shuttle, and a buggy — and still looks brand new.

Jennifer Chan is a seasoned fashion, beauty, and luxury travel writer, and a respected on-air media personality. Her work has been featured in InStyle, Elle, StyleCaster, Real Simple, Travel + Leisure , and Lonely Planet .

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

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

If there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that I pride myself on packing light and packing right . As a frequent flier, who also happens to change outfits several times a day whilst traveling, it’s my superhero skill to magically pack plenty of wardrobe changes in just one carry-on and one personal item — no more, no less (I haven't checked a suitcase since 2016, and that was when I was moving from Los Angeles to London). That being said, I’ve been on a perpetual quest to find the perfect personal item, and finally found it in the Calpak Terra 26-liter Laptop Duffel Backpack . 

Before I wax poetic on the wonders of this sturdy and stylish bag, it’s important to understand what I’m looking for in a personal item. For starters, it should hold as many things as humanly possible while still easily fitting underneath an airplane seat or overhead compartment (bonus points if the bag itself is ultra lightweight to start with). Since my carry-on roller bag is often packed to its limit with clothing, I generally rely on my personal item to double as a catchall for toiletries, extra shoes, souvenirs, hair tools, and anything else that I couldn’t possibly jam into my suitcase before zipping. 

Calpak Terra 26-liter Laptop Duffel Backpack

My personal item must also have a luggage trolley sleeve to secure onto my suitcase (since I am often lightly jogging through the terminal to catch flights), and it should also hide wear and tear as much as possible since my bags tend to take a beating no matter how careful I am on farflung getaways. Ideally, it would also have a water bottle sleeve for easy access and plenty of pockets to keep my charging cables, passport, laptop, and the like as organized as possible when trekking from hotel lobbies to airport lounges at any given time. 

For my recent 10-day journey to Thailand and the Maldives , I ambitiously decided to test out my new Calpak Terra Laptop Duffel Backpack for the first time ever and hoped for the best. I’ve waited my entire life to finally cross these two dream destinations off my bucket list, so I needed my luggage to be nimble and lightweight to keep up with the fast pace of my trip to paradise. Much to my delight, this sturdy backpack did not disappoint. 

Made with recycled water bottles, this durable, eco-friendly bag has a glossy ripstop finish and a water-resistant exterior, which means that it maintains a pristine condition despite a bit of a rough and tumble travel day. I boarded four planes, one boat, one shuttle, and a buggy to finally arrive at my dreamy overwater villa at the Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort (absolutely worth the trek, in case you were curious), and I couldn’t believe how flawless my backpack looked after it was handled by a number of transportation operators along the way.

During the trip, I used my backpack as my go-to carryall for toting around snorkel equipment, wet swimsuit storage, and souvenir shopping purchases, and it came in clutch for every occasion. It also doubled as a makeshift tripod whenever I needed to capture the indescribable beauty of the resort or the majestic sea life in the crystal clear blue ocean (baby black tip reef sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays aplenty) since its structured shape makes for a sturdy base whilst propping up a phone. 

But what I appreciated most about the Calpak Terra Laptop Duffel Backpack is that it's a thoughtfully designed travel bag. The padded shoulder straps took a load off my back and the clamshell opening was convenient for quick packing when time was of the essence. I loved that it had a separate padded sleeve for my laptop so I never had to worry about spills, and found that the backpack (which also doubles as a duffel with the switch of the detachable shoulder strap) to be incredibly comfortable to wear; and also roomy with several mesh integrated pockets to keep swimwear, sandals, snacks, and sunscreen perfectly stowed and neatly compartmentalized throughout my travels.

It's safe to say that the Calpak Terra Laptop Duffel Backpack passed its inaugural test run with flying colors, and that it's earned a permanent spot in this carry-on-only traveler's gear repertoire. In case you need a bit more convincing, Calpak makes plenty of other pretty-much-perfect bags of all sizes and shapes, so keep scrolling for more options to explore on your next adventure. 

More Travel Bags at Calpak:

Calpak terra laptop backpack.

If you’re a fan of the Terra collection, but want something smaller for everyday living, school days, or office commuting, you’re in luck because this compact backpack is currently on final sale in select colors. This sleek style features a back slip pocket to hold laptops up to 14 inches and adjustable padded shoulder straps for all-day comfort. If the great outdoors are calling your name, you’ll be delighted to know that you can even swap out the removable laptop sleeve for a 2-liter hydration reservoir for hikes or weekend adventures.

Calpak Luka Duffel Bag

Up until I discovered the Terra Laptop Backpack, the Luka Duffel, which has even earned a stamp of approval from Oprah , was my go-to personal item for years, so I can enthusiastically vouch for this travel bag, too. It’s stylish, functional, and holds all of my essentials with ease, which is likely why I have three of these must-have bags at home. The separate shoe compartment on the bottom is a brilliant feature that often comes in handy when you're a carry-on-only traveler, and the color options for the Luka (there are over 17 shades and counting) can’t be beat. 

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for a cool, contemporary-looking backpack that will keep all of your essentials safe and protected, look no further than the Luka Laptop Backpack. This scratch-resistant carryall looks playful thanks to its puffy exterior and is ideal for city commutes or quick day trips. It features multiple exterior and interior pockets and also boasts a padded laptop sleeve for your most prized possession.  

Calpak Hue Laptop Duffel

If you consider yourself a minimalist, you may love the Hue Laptop Duffel Bag since it features clean lines, buttery soft faux leather fabrication, and discreet details like a secret phone pocket and padded laptop sleeve that match its understated aesthetic. This elevated option comes in four neutral colors (blush pink, black, olive green, and hazel) and will look elegant atop any suitcase. 

Calpak Compakt Duffel Bag

Foldable, lightweight, and durable, this nylon duffel is perfect for packing inside your suitcase if you know that you’ll be shopping and bringing back more souvenirs on the way home. Made with ripstop, water-resistant material, this affordable find is ideal for long- or short-haul flights without the bulk of a more structured bag. It’s currently available in three whimsical prints to put your travel style on full display. 

At the time of publishing, the price started at $175. 

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It’s My Work-Diapers Backpack-Tote

Most diaper bags are just tote bags or backpacks made of waterproof materials, with extra pockets to hold bottles, pacifiers, and baby snacks. (Some of the more elaborate ones have insulated storage and removable changing pads.) They are often bulky, and, in my experience, life as a parent is easier without one. I prefer a more streamlined multipurpose bag that I can use for work or travel or just everyday errand-running, in addition to baby outings. And the best one I’ve found so far is the surprisingly spacious and nice-looking LeSportsac Double Trouble backpack.

My ideal diaper bag is lightweight and easy to carry, wipes clean and doesn’t show stains, looks good with everything I might wear, and is just as handy for carrying a laptop, water bottle , or wallet as it is for carrying baby stuff. The Double Trouble checks all of these boxes — plus, it can be used as a backpack or a tote. It has two tall pockets on the sides that work just as well for an adult water bottle as they do for a baby bottle. Inside, there are four elastic-trimmed mesh pockets that I use for everything from a computer charger to extra tampons and infant Motrin. There’s also a sneaky outer zipper pocket on the back and two smaller pockets (one zip, one not) on the front.

Despite its French-sounding name, LeSportsac is an American company that was founded in 1974, was taken over (and given new life) by the son of the original founders in the early 1990s, and is now in the middle of another revival along with other popular brands of the ’90s and 2000s. This resurgence and the backpack’s trapezoidal shape make it feel subtly trendy — even Prada -adjacent — especially in the all-black nylon that I have (though it also comes in an ever-changing array of bright colors and playful prints). It has a ’90s mini-backpack vibe without being actually mini or overtly vintage-looking. I first became familiar with the brand in college when I worked part-time in a kids’-clothing store that carried some of the Hello Kitty and Tokidoki collaboration bags . Then, last year, LeSportsac sent me a few items to try in celebration of its upcoming 50th anniversary, and the Double Trouble was the sleeper hit.

Before the Double Trouble became my “diaper bag” of choice, I tried three other contenders: a leopard-print Colugo diaper tote , an all-black Caraa baby bag , and a Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole backpack , also in all black. All three are well-designed bags with practical details like removable looped straps for hanging on a stroller and insulated pockets for snacks or milk, and all three had great potential. But, ultimately, none of them fit my criteria for everyday (or even occasional) non-baby-related use and ended up in the back of my closet.

I put the Patagonia backpack — which is also popular among artists and art handlers — on my baby registry , thinking it would work well style-wise for both me and my husband. It’s lightweight and packable and can be hosed off in the event of a spill. But since it lacks structure, the lightness of the backpack and the depth of the main compartment are more frustrating than they are practical. No matter how thoughtfully I packed it, everything would disappear as if into a … black hole. I always had to use two hands and a hard surface to find anything — not great if you’re also holding a wriggly or fussy baby with a dirty diaper.

The Caraa baby bag is the opposite, designed so you can find exactly what you need quickly. It’s all black on the outside, but the lining is cream-colored, so all your stuff is easy to see. It has three insulated outer pockets, two non-insulated magnetic sleeve pockets, a back zipper pocket that can fit a tablet or an iPad but not my MacBook Air, and a hidden zipper pocket for tucking away the optional shoulder straps. Inside, there are also four clear plastic slots and one elastic rimmed divider for organizing diapers . But the bag is bulky in a way that outs it as a diaper bag, and it can’t really double as a work bag since it can just barely hold my 13-inch laptop in the main compartment (and even then, the computer fits only without a protective sleeve ). The wealth of pockets, while useful, annoyingly causes me to carry more than I need.

The Colugo diaper tote is roomy and very attractive, with a handful of useful inner pockets and two small zipper pockets on the outside. It also has a removable cross-body shoulder strap. But I’ve found I like it better as a weekend bag, because it’s too big and heavy to use on a daily basis in New York City.

Where the Double Trouble beats them all is in its simple and ergonomic design. It’s comfortable to wear as a backpack despite a lack of extra padding or tactical-looking straps — the wide, woven nylon straps hug my shoulders gently as they evenly distribute the weight of whatever I am carrying. I can even wear it comfortably while carrying my son in a baby carrier , and the placement of the outer pockets makes it easy to reach around and grab my phone or a straw cup one-handed. When the subway car is crowded, it’s easy to switch to carrying it by the top handles as a tote. It fits in the storage bin of my compact Yoyo Stroller or in the basket of a Citibike. Best of all, it always makes my outfits look more sleek and put together, so much so that I chose to bring it with me instead of a purse on a recent trip to Japan and even got compliments on it from the salesperson at the Beams store in Kanazawa. It’s more than just a work bag, or a diaper bag, or an alternative to a purse for sightseeing, and I plan on carrying it long after my son is out of diapers and carrying his own backpack .

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