The best carry on backpack debate ends here !!
As a frequent traveler , there’s more chance you’ll be familiar with folks running on airports catching flights carrying light backpacks , and you just worried about the right size and weight of their backpack.
And as most airlines luggage regulations are getting stricter , i always insist that choosing “the right “ Backpack for carry on is critical, because it will ease my flight and guarantee a smooth boarding process.
A backpack is always better for carry on even if you are traveling with a suitcase, it will hold all your essential items, comfortable to carry and is functional. and fit under the seat in front of you in the airplane.
In this post, We’ve picked a list of the best carry on backpacks for international travel. this pieces are modern and appealing and will be carried as carry on for almost all international and domestic flights.

we may receive a small commision (with no additional cost to you) if you purchase an item from the links in this page, we really appreciate it!
What Size Of A Backpack Is The Best For Carry on?
the standard Carry on size in most US domestic routes is 22″ x 14″ x 9″, and obviously backpacks are smaller than this size.
When you search for the largest backpack size you will get the airlines standard carry on above.
However the largest carry on backpack you will find in Amazon is this size, 18.6 x 13.5 x 10.8 inches.
Any size of backpack is best for travel, but must not exceed 22″ x 14″ x 9″,Because your backpack must be able to be stored safely in the overhead locker for your flight.
What Weight Of A Backpack Is The Best For Carry on?
Most Airline do not have a weight limit for carry on baggage, but most airlines will ask you that your backpack must be light enough to be store it in the overhead bin without help.
If you take your backpack as a personal item, your back pack must fit under the seat in front of you, if it doesn’t fit under the seat, you maybe consider storing it in the overhead bin.
Related:
- Is a backpack considered a personal item?
- What Is The Best Crossbody Bag For Travel?
- Can a weekender bag be a personal item?
- Are North Face Backpacks Good?
Is A Backpack Ideal For A Carry on?
YES, you can sue a backpack as carry on , and the biggest benefits and advantages of a backpack is being able to transport you items with you on board.
It is preferable to not check in your belongings on airlines and take the risk of losing them, is also a key point when flying with a backpack on international travel.
Top 10 Best Carry on Backpacks For International Travel
1.Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, Anti Theft :Best lightweight carry on Backpack

This Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, Anti Theft Has over 40,302 ratings AND 835 answered questions about the functionality of the backpack.
this backpack will serve you as a carry on bag for almost all major airlines. This bag is well made and works many purposes.
There is a newer version of this BACKPACK Which is a large travel backpack with expandable feature offers you more packing capacity.
Key Features:
- It’s not basic black
- It has pockets a-plenty
- It comfortably fits my slim notebook laptop
- It’s water-resistant. The weather generally stinks where I live and this is a legit concern when it comes to toting nice bags.
- So many pockets
- It’s lightweight
- I can fit my lunch bag inside without it bulging precariously like my messenger bag did
- Seriously, there are a ton of pockets
- Product Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches
- Item Weight: 1.56 pounds
2. Volher Laptop Backpack,Business Travel Anti Theft :Best lightweight carry on Backpack

Volher Laptop Backpack,Business Travel Anti Theft, Durable, weatherproof, and chock-full of innovative features, it’s no wonder travelers around the world are obsessed with the Volher 15.6 inch carry on backpack.
You will feel the comfort of the shoulder straps and the inside strap that keeps it firmly attached to the carry on pull handle.
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 8 inches
- Item Weight :2.2 pounds
- Brand: Volher
3. YOREPEK Backpack for Men,Extra Large 50L :Best lightweight carry on Backpack

This My Top Pick.
I highly recommend This YOREPEK Backpack for Men,Extra Large 50L is definitely a best carry on backpack for international travel, it is adaptable, stylish and will add a whole new level of convenience to your trip.
you will be amazed by how much this backpack will hold, and how organized everything it will be.
Key Features:
- Item Dimensions :18 x 8 x 13.9 inches
- Item Weight : 2.18 pounds
- Brand: YOREPEK
4.Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack: Best lightweight carry on Backpack

If you are an experienced hiker you just started hiking this 40L backpack is the best carry on for you, it is lightweight and with multi-compartment.
The backpack comes in many colors, what makes it unique is the Upgraded Wet Pocket Design.
A compact and easy to fold backpack. comes in many colors and it is a lightweight.
Perfect bag for carry on, hiking and small trips. It has also have many pockets in it plus the fact that it has a warranty when you register it.
Key Features:
- Package Dimensions : 9 x 6.5 x 2 inches
- Product weight: 11.2 Ounces
- Manufacturer : Venture Pal
5.Travel Laptop Backpack Water Resistant Anti-Theft carry on Bag: Best lightweight carry on Backpack

This Travel Laptop Backpack Water Resistant Anti-Theft carry on Bag with modern functionality make this top notch backpack an ideal choice for traveling professionals and weekend warriors alike.
This anti theft backpack has the Perfect size to make it your carry on , great look, awesome quality, roomy, will holds your laptop perfectly. Light weight. with a pretty safe and easy to use combination Lock.
Key Features:
- Item Weight: 1.68 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 20 x 5.5 x 11.8 inches
6.SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA 17-Inch Laptop Backpack, Black: Best lightweight carry on Backpack

This 31 L SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA 17-Inch carry on Backpack Has over than 16,985 ratings and 786 answered questions on Amazon.
Perfect size for carry on, comfortable fit and plenty of space.
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions: 14 x 4 x 20 inches
- Item Weight: 3.3 pounds
- Manufacturer SwissGear
7. Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack for Women & Men :Best lightweight carry on Backpack

This Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack for Women & Men has over 1,318 ratings and 37 answered questions on Amazon, and It’s made from durable.
The main duffel bag 3 storage bags,laptop special bag front small bag water bottle / umbrella bag mouth hidden shoulder strap design front panel night travel reflective safety strip.(NOTE: There is a zipper on the shoulder strap, which can be used to put away or take out the shoulder strap by opening the zipper.)
Key Features:
- Backpack Dimensions: 20.12 x 15.07 x 3.27 inches
- Item Weight: 2.7 pounds
8.Carhartt Legacy Standard carry on Backpack with Padded Laptop Sleeve and Tablet Storage :Best lightweight carry on Backpack

This Versatile Carhartt Legacy Standard carry on Backpack with Padded Laptop Sleeve has over 3,238 ratings and 95 answered questions.
Another solid bag that will fit almost all airlines carry on size.
It is also a good choice if you are traveling with you tech, a laptop, accessories, tablet and Kindle.
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions: 11 x 12 x 18 inches
- Backpack Weight: 1 pounds
9. WENIG Laptop Backpack,Business Travel Anti Theft carry on Backpack :Best lightweight carry on Backpack

WENIG Laptop Backpack,Business Travel Anti Theft carry on Backpack are Designed with smart packers in mind, the carry on backpack offers a thoughtful aesthetic and just the right amount of organization while meeting airlines carry-on luggage size restrictions.
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions 11.81 x 7.48 x 17.72 inches
- Item Weight 1.67 pounds
10.Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack :Best lightweight carry on Backpack

Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack the best Carry-on travel backpack with internal, zippered laptop sleeve; ultra-flexible and lightweight; made of durable polyester.
Excellent design with large storage capacity to store all your items, and ample pockets/dividers for organization
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions: 15.75 x 21.5 x 8.25 inches
- Item Weight: 3.64 pounds
- Manufacturer: Amazon Basics
11.RMS Travel Laptop Business Backpack – Large Capacity and Anti Theft Backpack

This RMS Travel Laptop and carry on Backpack has over 144 ratings, Roomy & Organized so it can hold all your essential items, laptop and can be placed perfectly under the seat any airplane.
The compartments grants you more choice to take even more items.
The backpack is versatile, stylish, and comfortable to carry.
Works on almost all major airlines.
Size:
19″ H x 14″ W x 10″ D
Backpack for Men,Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Charging/Headphone Port

This XQXA carry on backpack has over 5,037 ratings and 53 answered questions on Amazon with Lots of Storage Spacious &Pockets.
Can be used in almost all international airlines carry on and ideal choice for taking care of your laptop.
Best Carry on Backpacks For International Travel Comparison
Below is a table of the best carry on backpack for international travel picked for you , with rating on Amazon and dimensions to help you better understand what to choose, you can Click on the product name to read reviews and check prices.
Conclusion: What Is The Best Carry on Backpack ?
Backpacks come in a variety of sizes to fit different needs and travelers of different interests weights and traveling habits.
By Far the above backpacks list are the best and the ultimate Carry on backpacks for international travel.
If you love travel with versatility with a backpack that is function able that will gear all your essential item during your trip, do not hesitate to invest in one of mentioned backpacks.
If you are looking for a backpack that will fit your airline Carry on, make sure to read your airline carry on size regulations first .
Bonn voyage <3.