Top 5 International Carry On Backpacks: Buyer's Guide

Ever felt the stress of cramming too much into a bag for your flight? We all know that feeling. Airlines have strict size rules for carry-on bags. If your bag is too big, you might have to check it at the gate. That means waiting at baggage claim and maybe paying extra fees. Finding the perfect international carry-on backpack solves this headache.

The problem is, many backpacks look good but don’t fit airline limits. They might be too deep or too tall. Choosing the wrong one means wasted space or annoying delays. You want a bag that holds everything you need without the baggage claim drama. This post breaks down exactly what makes a great international carry-on backpack.

We will show you the must-have features, the best sizes to look for, and how to pack smarter. By the end, you will know exactly which backpack fits your travel style and the rules of the sky. Get ready to travel lighter and smarter!

Top International Carry On Backpack Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

Vancropak Carry on Backpack, Flight Approved 18x14x8 Travel Backpack with 3 Packing Cubes, Expandable Large 40L Travel Bag fits 17.3" Laptop, Anti Theft Luggage Suitcase Weekend for Women Men, Grey

Expandable and Travel Ready: Designed for weekend or short trips, this personal item travel backpack measures 18 x 13 x 6.5 inches and expands 2 inches deeper. Weighing just 2.59 lbs, its lightweight structure helps reduce shoulder strain during long walks or flights. The TSA-friendly design opens 90–180° for hassle-free airport checks. Features padded shoulder straps, a zippered strap pocket, and fits most airline overhead bins
Easy Luggage Packing: Everything in its place! The carry on backpack for airplanes includes 2 packing cubes for clothes and 1 water-resistant toiletry bag, helping you easily organize your items. It also features a ventilated shoe compartment at the bottom that fits men’s or women’s size 10–12 shoes. With wet/dry separation pockets and smart compartments throughout, it’s designed to keep your travel gear clean, sorted, and stress-free. Pack like a pro and enjoy an organized weekend every time
Practical Design: This personal item backpack 18x14x8 features a main compartment with a dry and wet pocket for toiletries or dirty clothes, plus elastic straps to keep everything in place. The padded middle section fits a 17.3-inch laptop and cushions it from bumps.There are extra pockets for keys, headphones, and other small gear. A side pocket holds an 18 oz water bottle or umbrella. For added peace of mind, it includes a zipper with a lock hole and a combination lock to secure your valuables
Versatile & Convenient: This personal item backpack for airlines features a front quick-access pocket for passports, tickets, and other essentials, so you're never left fumbling at airport security. A side USB port lets you charge your phone on the go using a power bank stored neatly in the mesh pocket inside the main compartment. A back luggage strap secures the spirit approved personal item bag to your suitcase handle, keeping your hands free for a smoother, stress-free journey
Sturdy and Comfortable: Built to handle real adventure, this backpack luggage is made from water-resistant, scratch-resistant polyester that holds up trip after trip. A U-shaped, breathable back and wide padded mesh shoulder straps with air cushions help reduce pressure during long wear. The strap also includes a zippered pocket for coins or cards. great as a carry on travel bag, overnight bag, or weekend bag, it also makes a thoughtful gifts for dad, fathers day backpack gifts, travel gifts

SaleBestseller No. 2

Lumesner Carry on Travel Backpacks, Extra Large 40L Flight Approved Bag for Men & Women,Expandable Suitcase Backpack With 4 Packing Cubes,Water Resistant Luggage Daypack Business Weekender Bag, Grey

LARGE CAPACITY & EXPANDABLE：This extra large travel backpack with expandable feature offers you more packing capacity up to 40L.Unzipping to get larger storage space then can easily hold packing cubes, make-up bag, outfits, camera bag and gear for 3~7 days of travel.The carry on backpack fits overhead and under seat while on state of standard carry on size, is ideal for men, women, weekend traveler, or occasional vacationer.
EXTRA 4 PACKING CUBES:This weekend travel backpack comes with four packing cubes. large cube for sweaters, jackets, pants. Medium cube for shirts, shorts. Small water resistant cube with transparent side for providing clear overview of toiletries. there's also a shoe pocket. Keeping your belongings neater and more organized. Serve you well as carry on bags for airplanes, weekender backpack, personal item travel bag, overnight bag.
DESIGNED for TRAVEL:The luggage backpack is constructed to be most comfortable over hours of carrying, with multi-panel ventilated padding and adjustable and breathable straps which relieve the stress of the weight on your shoulders. Equipped with an adjustable chest strap, provides a better wearing experience. A luggage strap to attach the backpack to your suitcase. An anti-theft back pocket is suitable for valuables. Features a USB port, which means you can charge your phone on the go.
USB PORT DESIGN: With builtin USB charger outside and builtin charging cable inside, offers a more easier way to charge your phone while walking or cycling.This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under
MOST DURABLE & BEST GIFT CHOICE:The backpack for travel is made of durable, water-resistant polyester and anti-scratch material, which can provide protection on drizzle days. Sturdy metal double zipper and upgraded reinforced stitching make it last longer. With 40L capacity and 17” laptop storage, it can offers ample space yet is the perfect size for carry-on backpack. An amazing gift for men and women who love to travel, and the best choice for Father's Day, Christmas and other holiday gifts.

SaleBestseller No. 3

MATEIN Weekender Backpack, Large Capacity Travelling Suitcase Backpack with Strap for Clothes, Expandable Flight Approved Business Carry on Daypack for International Travel, Blue

Expandable & Large Capacity: This extra large travel backpack with expandable feature offers you more packing capacity. Unzipping to get 45L storage then can easily hold packing cubes, make-up bag, outfits, camera bag and gear, etc. It fits overhead bin while on state of standard carry on size, is suitable for men, women, weekend traveler, or occasional vacationer. This versatile luggage backpack also meets airline carry-on requirements for airlines such as Easy Jet, Spirit, Jet Blue
Convertible Design: Dimensions 19*13*8inch, Lightweight 1Kg(2.2lb) The carry on backpack is designed with hideaway padded shoulder straps which can be easily stored away in zippered back panel, transforming this vacation backpack from carry-on duffle to briefcase style and provide you a more flexible carrying experience. A luggage strap on the back is designed to fit on luggage/suitcase, for easier carry on international travel or cruise
Easy to Carry: The luggage backpack is light to carry due to its adjustable shoulder straps, comfortable air-mesh ventilated back panel. 2 padded grab handles are set on the top and the side of the travel backpack, making it easily to take the bag from an overhead bin. The gift choice for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas, New Year, Valentine's Day, also available as travelers gifts
Built for Travel: Front compartment is for little gear such as phone, earphone. The large inside pocket has internal compression elastic straps. The padded straps include a sternum strap that can be adjusted upward or downward, set to go across your chest, relieving the weight from your shoulder. 4 external compression straps keep contents from sloshing around and can get an inch or 2 more of vertical space also reduced stress on the zippers
Heavy-duty: This large travel backpack is made of water resistant lightweight polyester with lockable zipper heads. Could be survived in different temperatures. With sturdy zippers and decent stitching, this backpack won't show any defects when on the go, ensuring you an unforgettable weekend getaway. Does your partner like to travel? It's also a practical Christmas and New Years gift for your parents, traveler

SaleBestseller No. 4

LOVEVOOK Travel Backpack for Women & Men 40L,Airline Approved Carry On Backpack Travel Essentials,TSA Carry on Luggage,Waterproof Personal Item Travel Bag,Suitcase with 3 Packing Cubes,Light gray-Pink

✈【Large Capacity & Multiple Pockets】: The travel backpack has a 40L large capacity and 4 main compartments, which can meet daily and travel needs. The travel backpack for women's main compartment can store a lot of things, including 5-8 pieces of clothing, shoes, books, and many other items. The separate laptop compartment is padded with EVA foam to provide the best protection for your 17" laptop and 12.9" iPad. The front compartment has many pockets to keep your belongings organized.
✈【As Personal Item Airline Approved:】 The size of the carry on backpack is 18*14*8inch. Meets the maximum size allowed by most International Air Transport Association (IATA) flights, and can be placed in the overhead luggage compartment and under seat luggage for airlines, suitable for Spirit, Frontier, Easy Jet, Jet Blue, and other airlines. This travel backpack for women airline approved can be freely opened 90-180 degrees easily and quickly at the airport security check.
✈【With 3 Packing Cubes and wet pockets】: This waterproof backpack for women is equipped with additional 3 storage pockets, including 2 carry-on storage pockets and 1 shoe pocket. You can put underwear, socks, and small clothes neatly inside. The shoe bag is 16.5 inches/42cm long and can hold 1~2 pair of shoes. You can also put your toiletries and wet clothes inside the dry and wet separation bag made of high-density waterproof material to keep your travel organized.
✈【Comfortable and Durable】: This carry on backpack flight approved uses strong explosion-proof metal double-way YKK zippers and upgraded reinforced stitching to make it last longer. The high-thickness breathable sponge mesh design on the shoulder straps can reduce the pressure on the shoulders and make your backpack feel lighter and cooler. Use it as a weekender backpack, hiking, camping, plane trip, business backpack, University backpack, or casual daypack backpack.
✈【Practical and Comfortable Design】: This large travel backpack has handles on the top and one side. It can be easily used in daily life. Multifunctional Backpack: Hybrid (Backpack, Duffel Bag, Shoulder Bag, Travel Bag). A pocket on one side can store a water bottle or an umbrella; the luggage strap allows the personal item travel bag to slide on the luggage tube, ensuring easy air travel.

Bestseller No. 5

tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Friendly Flight Approved Carry-on Luggage Hand Water-resistant Lightweight Business Rucksack, Durable Large Weekender Bag Daypack Fits 17.3 Inch Laptop, PFAS Free

Large Capacity & Organized: This Navigator-T66 carry-on backpack provides ample space for all your travel essentials. It features a large main compartment with a separate laptop compartment, and several other pockets and compartments for organization. Dimensions: 20.47 x 12.99 x 9 inch (52 x 33 x 23 cm). Depending on the packing methods and contents, the actual usable capacity ranges between 38-40L (handmade, slight variations in size & weight)
Convenient Storage: You can reach the main compartment from the quick access front pocket for easy reach of your travel essentials on the go, and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking; The tech compartment can accommodate up to 17" laptop and 13 inch iPad with accessories; Front pocket, top pocket and side pockets for easy access to glasses, documents and travel liquids, etc.
TSA Friendly & Flight Approved: The laptop compartment is friendly designed to be opened 90°-180° for security scanning, helps get through airport security checkpoints quickly and easy; And the dimension meets most international airlines' carry-on size requirements, making it the perfect companion for air travel, it's ideal for airplane traveling
Built to Last and Sustainable: Made of premium quality YKK zippers and durable recycled fabric—that is 100% post-consumer material made from PET plastic bottles, which is sustainable and can also reduce energy consumption and pollution; Keep traveling with the best recycled fabric! The results might surprise you
Ultra-comfortable & Easy Carry: 3D padded back panel and contoured thick shoulder straps for superior ergonomic comfort. An adjustable chest buckle help transfer weight off your shoulders, keeping you relaxed and cozy all the time; Two handles, one on top and one on the side provide flexible carrying experience. A strap on the back for luggage pass-through for convenient carry

SaleBestseller No. 6

Taygeer Carry On Backpack, 35l Travel Backpack for Women Airline Approved, Cute Underseat Personal Item Travel Bag With Shoe Compartment, Casual Daypack Gifts for Friend Hiking Outdoor Weekend,Blue

Convenient USB Port: Travel laptop backpack with built in USB charger outside and built in charging cable inside, personal item travel bag offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking. Please note womens travel backpack doesn't power itself and does not include a powerbank and cable, USB charging port only offers easy access to charge
Roomy Capacity & Multi-Pocket: Dimensions 16.8*11*7 inch, Light Weight 0.79 kg(1.74 lb), large travel backpack has 3 main large compartments and 9 allocated inner pockets and side pockets. Makes your item organized and easier to find. College backpack with laptop compartment holds a 17 inch laptop and a 12.9 iPad, backpack for women travel bag Providing a dedicated space for your pen, textbooks, wallet, clothes, shoes, bottle etc. At the same time, backpack college women is water resistant
Flight Approved Laptop Backpack: 180 degree zipper closure helps you pass through the security check quickly. Travel laptop backpack fits overhead and under the seat. travel backpack for women also meets airline carry-on requirements, applicable for airlines such as Easy Jet, Spirit, Jet Blue. Recommended age range: 5 years old and up
Be Handbag or Backpack: Womens backpack travel designed with padded adjustable shoulder straps and 2 padded handles make it easy to transform this weekender backpack from hand bag to backpack. Luggage Strap provides a more flexible carrying experience.Two padded grab handles are set on top and side of large backpack for travel. Note: when used as a handbag, you can thread the shoulder strap through the luggage strap for convenience
Widely Used: Business travel backpack can be used in several different ways, served as college backpack, daily backpack, weekend backpack, TSA backpack, personal item backpack, laptop backpack, luggage backpack, suitcase backpack, travel essential. Backpack travel bag for airplane is perfect for weekender, travel, college, daily use, and is also the best birthday gift for daughter women

SaleBestseller No. 7

Gieury Carry On Backpack, 50L Travel Backpack, Luggage Backpack TSA Flight Approved Laptop Backpack for Men & Women, Large Expandable 40L Daypack Lightweight Business Weekender Bag, Black

【50L Max Capacity—Pack More, Stress Less】Expandable design boosts storage up to 50L, solving the “not enough space” problem for 3–5 day trips. Easily fits outfits, shoes, jackets & travel essentials without overstuffing. Designed to fit overhead and underseat on major airlines.
【TSA 180° Fast Check—No More Airport Hassle】The lay-flat 180° laptop section speeds you through TSA without removing your device. Converts from backpack to suitcase mode, and the luggage strap keeps your hands free during long airport lines.
【Clean Packing System—Keep Shoes Separate】Bottom shoe compartment fits size 5–12 shoes and keeps dirty items separated from clean clothes. Can also be used for toiletries, wet items, or gym gear—solving messy packing issues.
【Smart Organization—Everything Has a Place】Dedicated 17” laptop pocket, spacious dual-zip main compartment, and multiple interior pockets create a clutter-free packing experience. No more digging for chargers, documents, or small essentials.
【Built for Heavy Use—Durable & Travel-Proof】Crafted with water-repellent material, strong metal zippers, and reinforced stitching. The USB charging port keeps your phone powered during long travel days (power bank not included). Built to handle daily commutes, weekend getaways, and international trips.

SaleBestseller No. 8

Rcrirth Carry On Travel Backpack for Airplanes | 35L Suitcase Backpack Luggage Business Weekender Bag - Expandable Travel Carry On Flight Approved for Men Women - Black

✈️ Our Product: from the product video, it can be seen that travel carry on backpack is very nice. this is because he has excellent workmanship, but more importantly, the materials used are very good and thick. there are many other details that we exclusively customize.
✈️ Design Concept: a simple and elegant business weekender backpack with 17.3 inch laptop compartments and waterproof compartments. the main compartment is equivalent to a 35l suitcase. a private pocket on the back of 35l backpack for storing passports and change.
✈️ Expandable Space: opening the zipper (increase backpack suitcase width by 2 inches) , can provide more storage space. more importantly, under normal circumstances, there is no difference in size compared to laptop bags, and they can be used daily.
✈️ TSA Design: this 35l travel backpack size complies with the airline's carry on regulations and can be opened 180 degrees, making it very easy and fast to pass airport security checks. this carry on luggage backpack can also be transformed from a backpack to a suitcase style.
✈️ Widely Used: carry on backpack for airplanes are perfect for weekend vacations, travel, nursing schools, and daily use. he is also a great gift for friends, very suitable as a back to school gift, birthday gift, holiday gift, etc.

Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Perfect International Carry-On Backpack

Traveling light is smart. An international carry-on backpack makes your journey easier. This guide helps you pick the best one for your adventures.

Key Features to Look For

The right features make a huge difference when you travel. Look closely at these important points:

Size and Capacity: Most airlines let you bring a bag that is around 40–45 liters. Check the specific airline rules! A good size means you fit everything without checking a bag.
Clamshell Opening: This means the bag opens like a suitcase. You can pack and find things easily. Zipping it shut is simple.
Laptop Sleeve: A padded, easy-access sleeve protects your computer. This is vital for quick trips through airport security.
Comfort Features: Look for padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel. A sternum strap (chest strap) and hip belt help heavy loads feel lighter.
Hidden Pockets: Secure pockets keep your passport, wallet, and phone safe from pickpockets.

Important Materials for Durability

The material decides how long your backpack lasts. Strong materials handle rough travel better.

Denier Rating: This number tells you how thick the fabric is. Look for 400D (Denier) or higher. Higher numbers mean tougher fabric.
Water Resistance: A water-resistant coating (like DWR) keeps your electronics dry if you get caught in the rain. Some bags use waterproof zippers too.
Zippers: Big, sturdy zippers are a must. Brands like YKK make the best zippers. They rarely snag or break.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Small details often show the quality of the bag. Good construction means fewer problems later.

Quality Boosters:

Reinforced Stitching: Look where the straps attach to the bag. Double stitching or bar-tacking (extra stitching in a small box pattern) adds strength.
Compression Straps: These straps let you squeeze the bag down when it is not full. They keep the load stable.
Carry Options: Bags that offer backpack straps, a top handle, and sometimes a side handle offer flexibility.

Quality Reducers:

Thin Padding: If the back panel feels flimsy, your back will hurt after walking around the airport.
Cheap Plastic Hardware: Flimsy plastic buckles break easily when they get cold or stressed.
Excessive Dangling Straps: Too many loose straps catch on things. Good bags have ways to tuck them away.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use the bag changes what you need. Think about your travel style.

The Weekend Warrior:

If you take short trips (3–5 days), a 30–35 liter bag works well. Focus on organization inside. You need quick access to one main compartment.

The Digital Nomad:

You need excellent tech protection. Make sure the laptop sleeve is padded and sits near your back for better weight distribution. Look for a dedicated charger pocket.

The Budget Traveler:

You will walk a lot. Comfort is key. Prioritize thick padding on the shoulder straps and a good hip belt, even if the bag is slightly heavier.

A great carry-on backpack simplifies your travel. It saves you time at baggage claim and keeps your valuables close. Choose wisely based on size limits and your comfort needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About International Carry-On Backpacks

Q: What is the standard maximum size for international carry-on bags?

A: Most international airlines allow bags up to 45 liters. However, always check the specific airline’s website. Dimensions are often around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 23 cm).

Q: Should I choose a bag that opens like a suitcase (clamshell) or a top-loader?

A: Clamshell opening is strongly recommended for carry-ons. It lets you pack like a suitcase and see everything at once. Top-loaders are harder to organize in small spaces.

Q: Are waterproof bags necessary?

A: Truly waterproof bags can be heavy. Water-resistant bags are usually enough. They protect against light rain and spills. If you know you will be hiking in heavy downpours, look for a bag with a removable rain cover.

Q: How important is weight when buying the backpack empty?

A: Very important! If the bag weighs 4 pounds empty, you only have 16 pounds left for your clothes and gear (if the airline limit is 20 pounds total). Lighter bags give you more packing space.

Q: Do I need a hip belt on a smaller carry-on?

A: For bags under 35 liters, a full hip belt might be overkill. However, a simple sternum strap and light waist strap help stabilize the load and prevent the shoulder straps from sliding off.

Q: What is the difference between a “travel backpack” and a “hiking backpack”?

A: Travel backpacks focus on organization, accessibility (like clamshell opening), and hiding straps. Hiking backpacks focus on carrying heavy loads comfortably for long distances, often having external frames or very specialized suspension systems.

Q: Can I lock the zippers on these bags?

A: Yes, most good carry-on backpacks have zipper pulls designed to fit through a small lock or a locking cable. This is important for security in hostels or on trains.

Q: Where should the laptop sleeve be placed?

A: The best spot is against the back panel, closest to your body. This places the weight correctly and keeps the laptop protected from outside bumps.

Q: What is “Tuck-Away Harness”?

A: This feature lets you zip or clip the shoulder straps and hip belt into a dedicated pocket on the back of the bag. This prevents straps from snagging when you check the bag or carry it like a briefcase.

Q: Are colorful bags better than black or grey ones?

A: Color is personal preference. However, lighter or brighter colors make your bag easier to spot on a carousel (if you must check it) or when quickly grabbing it from an overhead bin.

Melody Smith

Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.