Embarking on an international adventure is an exhilarating experience that promises unforgettable memories and thrilling escapades.
Whether you’re jetting off for a spontaneous weekend getaway or embarking on a long-term exploration, choosing the right carry-on backpack is crucial for a successful and stress-free journey.
Gone are the days of lugging around heavy suitcases or dealing with the hassles of checked baggage.
Travelers now favor the convenience, mobility, and versatility offered by carry-on backpacks.
These compact yet spacious companions have revolutionized the way we explore the world, allowing us to pack efficiently and move effortlessly through bustling airports, winding streets, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the realm of carry-on backpacks designed specifically for international travel.
We’ll explore the key features to consider when selecting your ideal travel companion and present a carefully curated selection of the best carry-on backpacks available today.
From sleek urban backpacks to rugged adventure-ready models, our guide covers a wide range of options to suit various travel styles and preferences.
Whether you’re a minimalist traveler seeking a lightweight companion or a tech-savvy explorer in need of dedicated gadget compartments, we’ve got you covered.
Contents
- 1 10 Best Carry-on Backpack For International Travel
- 1.1 1. Peak Design Travel Bag
- 1.2 2. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
- 1.3 3. Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
- 1.4 4. Eddie Bauer Voyager 3.0 22L Backpack
- 1.5 5. Lowepro Flipside Backpack
- 1.6 6. eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack
- 1.7 7. TIMBUK2 Impulse Travel Backpack
- 1.8 8. Samsonite Pro Slim Backpack
- 1.9 9. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 15L
- 1.10 10. Thule Chasm Backpack 26L
- 2 Quick Shopping Tips
- 3 Final Verdict
10 Best Carry-on Backpack For International Travel
1. Peak Design Travel Bag
Traveling internationally can be a challenge, particularly when it comes to packing. However, the Peak Design Travel Bag is specifically designed to make packing a breeze.
It’s the ideal carry-on backpack for those who want to travel with convenience and comfort.
The Peak Design Travel Bag is made from durable materials such as waterproof 400D nylon canvas shell and weatherproof zippers, perfect components for extended travel.
It has ample space that can expand from 35 liters to 45 liters.
This expansion system makes the bag versatile, so you can easily organize and pack everything that you need for your trip.
It’s incredibly comfortable to use, featuring padded straps that are well-positioned for balanced weight distribution.
The Peak Design Travel Bag offers an exceptional internal organization system, complete with designated pockets and compartments to keep all your belongings neatly arranged.
With a convenient side access zipper, you can effortlessly reach the main storage area.
What sets this bag apart is its impressive eight access points, allowing you to grab items quickly and easily, even while on the move.
The Peak Design Travel Bag is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also boasts a sleek and modern design.
It comes in two color options: black and sage. Its subtle design ensures it complements any outfit effortlessly.
What sets the Peak Design Travel Bag apart is its exceptional durability. Crafted with high-quality components, this bag is built to last a lifetime.
If you are searching for the ultimate carry-on bag that will meet all of your needs, look no further than the Peak Design Travel Bag.
I highly recommend this backpack for international travel as it is simply the best.
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2. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
When it comes to travel, having the perfect backpack can make or break your journey.
That’s why the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is one of the best carry-on backpacks for international travel.
With its sleek design, sturdy construction, and impressive features, the Allpa 35L is a traveler’s best friend.
Let’s start with the basics. The Allpa 35L is made from incredibly durable materials, which not only keeps your items safe but also means it can withstand the wear and tear of travel.
Its rugged TPU-coated 1000D polyester material is both water-resistant and built to last.
But the Allpa 35L is more than just a tough exterior. It’s incredibly versatile, with customizable storage compartments that can hold everything from a laptop to shoes.
The main compartment is spacious and can hold all of your essentials, while the front pocket has smaller compartments for items like your passport or phone.
There are also side pockets for a water bottle and a detachable hip belt that can be used for additional support.
One particularly great feature of the Allpa 35L is its ability to be carried in multiple ways.
You can use the traditional backpack straps for easy carrying or use the side handle to carry it like a duffel bag.
There’s even a strap on the back that allows you to attach the backpack to your suitcase handle for even easier travel.
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3. Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L
Are you constantly on the lookout for the best backpack that can keep up with your globetrotter lifestyle?
Look no further because the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L is the perfect carry-on backpack for international travel.
Constructed with a foam structure and a padded ballistic nylon back panel, this backpack offers maximum comfort even during long hours of carrying.
The U-shaped entry to the large main compartment makes packing and unpacking a breeze, while the internal mesh organization pockets keep your items organized and easily accessible.
The U-shaped entry to the secondary organization compartment further adds to the convenience of accessing your belongings.
With a 30L capacity, you can pack all your travel essentials and more.
The larger zippered security pocket and dual slip pockets provide additional storage and easy access to your passport, boarding pass, and other travel documents.
The backpack’s design also includes a smaller front pocket for quick access to your phone or wallet.
The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag comes in a variety of colors to suit your style. Its durability ensures that it will last you for years of travel.
The backpack is also TSA compliant, making airport security checks a breeze.
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4. Eddie Bauer Voyager 3.0 22L Backpack
If you are someone who loves to travel and explore new places, the Eddie Bauer Voyager 3.0 22L Backpack is a must-have item in your luggage collection.
This backpack is a game-changer when it comes to carry-on backpacks for international travel. It is designed with the utmost care and attention to detail to provide its users with a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
The backpack boasts an array of impressive features, chief among them being its protected laptop and tablet sleeves.
These carefully designed compartments ensure the safety of your devices while you’re on the go, eliminating any worries of damage during your travels.
With ample space for all your travel essentials, this backpack truly has it all.
The Voyager 3.0 Backpack is incredibly lightweight and made from high-quality materials that make it durable and resilient, perfect for traveling.
The material used in constructing the backpack is water-resistant, which means that your belongings will remain safe and dry even on rainy days.
The backpack’s 22L capacity is more than enough for a weekend trip, and it is designed with numerous pockets that allow you to store items efficiently.
This feature makes it easy to access your belongings on the go without having to unpack everything. The backpack’s straps are adjustable to ensure a comfortable fit that suits your body type and size.
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5. Lowepro Flipside Backpack
As a frequent traveler, one of the biggest challenges I face is carrying all my essential gear on the go.
From cameras and lenses to chargers and power banks, there are multiple items that one needs to carry when on the road.
Thankfully, the Lowepro Flipside Backpack has made my life much easier. With its advanced features and smart design, this backpack has become my go-to choice for international travel.
The active zone suspension system and straps make carrying efficient and effortless. Even when fully loaded, the backpack sits comfortably on my shoulders, distributing the weight evenly across my back.
Moreover, the built-in all-weather AW cover ensures that my gear stays protected from rain, snow, dust, and sand. This feature is especially helpful when traveling to harsh weather conditions.
What truly sets this backpack apart is its innovative flipside design.
Unlike traditional backpacks that require you to remove the bag to access your gear, Flipside’s access allows you to get what you need without putting the bag down.
This is especially handy when you’re in a hurry or need to access something quickly.
Apart from these features, the Lowepro Flipside Backpack offers additional carrying options inside or outside.
Multiple attachment points allow you to scale up or down the gear you carry outside of your bag.
This feature is especially handy when you’re traveling with a lot of gear or want to keep your essentials within easy reach.
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6. eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack
The sixth on our list is the eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack, a top-of-the-line model that is perfect for international travelers.
This backpack offers a multitude of pockets and storage options, making it incredibly versatile.
It includes two quick-grab zip pockets on the outside, a convenient side zip water bottle pocket, and practical bottom and side carry handles.
With these features, you can effortlessly access your belongings without the need to unpack your entire backpack.
The backpack is equipped with four exterior compression straps, allowing you to easily adjust your load and ensure everything stays secure.
Inside the backpack, you’ll find plenty of organization options. The front zip compartment has several interior pockets and a key leash, making it easy to keep your belongings organized and in place.
The large main compartment also features compression straps and a fold-down shelf, allowing you to maximize your packing space.
Finally, an interior zip-around mesh panel pocket provides even more space and organization options.
The backpack is also incredibly comfortable to wear. The breathable back panel ensures that you stay cool and comfortable, even on long hikes or walks.
The removable and adjustable sternum strap provides additional support and stability, making this backpack an excellent choice for any adventure.
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7. TIMBUK2 Impulse Travel Backpack
The TIMBUK2 Impulse Travel Backpack is a top-of-the-line travel backpack that is designed to meet the needs of discerning travelers.
This backpack is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a carry-on backpack for international travel.
It is suitable for both business trips and leisure vacations, making it a versatile travel companion.
The TIMBUK2 Impulse Travel Backpack stands out with its spacious design. With a generous capacity of 40 liters, it’s perfect for storing all your essentials during long trips.
The backpack features multiple compartments and pockets, ensuring your belongings stay organized and easily accessible.
The main compartment is expandable, allowing you to accommodate even more items when necessary. Experience the perfect blend of functionality and convenience with this exceptional travel backpack.
The backpack is crafted from durable, water-resistant materials that can withstand the rigors of travel. It has a stylish design that will look good no matter where your travels take you.
The back panel and shoulder straps of the backpack are padded for comfort, which means you can carry it around for extended periods without feeling fatigued.
The TIMBUK2 Impulse Travel Backpack boasts an array of impressive features, including its tech-savvy design.
With a specialized laptop compartment capable of accommodating up to a 15-inch device, as well as a convenient front zippered pocket, this backpack provides ideal storage for your tablet, smartphone, and other electronic essentials.
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8. Samsonite Pro Slim Backpack
The Samsonite Pro Slim Backpack is the perfect travel companion for individuals who don’t want to compromise on style and functionality.
With a sleek design and premium-quality construction, this backpack exudes excellence from every angle. The backpack’s slim profile and light-weight feature make it ideal to carry onto an aircraft as a carry-on.
The backpack’s deluxe interior and innovative organization system make it easy to sort and arrange items, making it an excellent choice for international business trips or vacations.
Also, the backpack features a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate laptops up to 15.6 inches and keep it secure during travel.
The Pro Slim Backpack comes with a backup charger that is very convenient for people who are on-the-go.
This useful feature eliminates the need to search for electrical outlets or look for a charging station, ensuring that your gadgets remain charged no matter where you go.
The backpack’s innovative compression straps also allow you to adjust the volume of your bag efficiently.
This feature can be very helpful when you are packing for a vacation, allowing you to reduce the size of the backpack when packing is light, or expand when packing is too bulky.
Moreover, the backpack is made from a durable and water-resistant material that protects it from inclement weather.
Therefore it remains an excellent travel companion in all climates. Additional features, such as padded back panels and adjustable shoulder straps, provide added comfort to make carrying the backpack all day more comfortable and easier.
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9. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 15L
If security is your primary concern, the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 15L Anti-Theft serves as stepping stone for your international travel.
This backpack offers an impressive level of protection against thieves and pickpockets. It features slash-proof construction that keeps your belongings safe from potential cuts and slices.
The bag also includes an RFID-blocking pocket, which is designed to protect your passport, credit cards, and other important documents from identity theft.
The backpack has several locking points that allow you to securely lock the bag onto a fixed object or rack. This provides additional security while traveling.
It also features adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable fit for any body type. The front zip pocket ensures you can quickly access your belongings when needed.
The backpack also has several exterior pockets, including a top pocket, a side mesh pocket, and an external stash pocket.
These pockets provide ample space for items such as keys, snacks or water bottles; perfect for day trips or quick errands.
A unique feature that no other travel backpack offers; an integrated rain cover. This ensures your belongings stay safe and dry, even in unexpected downpours.
With its innovative features and quality construction, this backpack will ensure your travel experiences are safe and secure.
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10. Thule Chasm Backpack 26L
Last but not least, the Thule Chasm Backpack 26L is a great option for international travel. Its lightweight design and plenty of storage space make it ideal for any adventure.
This backpack offers four exterior pockets, allowing you to easily access your gear when needed.
It also includes a spacious main compartment with an internal laptop sleeve and multiple organizational options.
The backpack has been made with Phthalate-free TPE laminate and 840D nylon, making it tough and able to withstand the rigors of everyday use.
Its durable, water-resistant front panel and base make it ready to face any weather conditions, ensuring that your belongings are safe and dry.
This Backpack offers a range of features that make it a practical and functional option. The quick access pocket with soft lining for a phone and small items is a convenient feature that allows you to access your phone quickly and easily.
The organizational panel with various pockets and bulk storage area is perfect for keeping your belongings organized, whilst the side zipper access to the laptop compartment ensures that your laptop can be accessed easily and safely.
The backpack’s contoured, breathable shoulder straps and padded back panel provide comfort even when carrying heavy loads, ensuring that you do not experience any discomfort or strain.
The expandable side pocket for water bottle or essentials and dedicated bike light attachment loop make it even more functional, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities.
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Quick Shopping Tips
â—ˆ Size and Dimensions
Airline Compatibility: Every airline has specific dimensions for carry-on luggage. Make sure the backpack you choose is compatible with the most common size restrictions (22 x 14 x 9 inches).
Expandability: Some backpacks offer expandable features, which may come in handy when you have extra items to carry.
Laptop Compartment Size: If you travel with a laptop, ensure the backpack has a separate compartment that can accommodate its size.
Under Seat Fit: Some flights might require your bag to fit under the seat in front of you, so consider this when choosing your backpack’s size.
Avoid Overpacking: A compact backpack can discourage overpacking, helping you stay within weight limits and making it easier to move around.
â—ˆ Comfort
Padded Straps: Backpacks with padded shoulder straps can significantly reduce shoulder strain, especially during long travel days.
Hip Belt: A hip belt helps distribute the pack’s weight evenly across your body, relieving pressure from your shoulders and back.
Padded Back Panel: A padded back panel can provide additional comfort, especially when carrying heavy loads.
Breathable Material: Look for a backpack with breathable material to avoid excessive sweating.
Adjustable Straps: Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit of the backpack according to your body shape and size, enhancing comfort.
â—ˆ Organization
Multiple Compartments: Multiple compartments help segregate your belongings, making it easier to locate items quickly.
Accessible Pockets: Easy-access pockets are useful for storing items like passports, wallets, or snacks that you need to reach quickly.
Laptop Compartment: A separate laptop compartment provides extra protection for your device.
Compression Straps: These help secure your items, reducing movement and keeping the backpack’s shape even when it’s not fully packed.
Removable Day Packs: Some backpacks come with removable day packs, which are handy for short excursions or day trips once you’ve reached your destination.
â—ˆ Durability
Quality Materials: High-quality materials such as nylon or polyester ensure your backpack can withstand the rigors of travel.
Waterproof or Water-resistant: These materials protect your belongings from unexpected rain or spills.
Sturdy Zippers: Durable and smooth-running zippers are crucial as they are frequently used and can be a point of failure.
Reinforced Stitching: This adds to the overall strength of the backpack, particularly at stress points like where straps connect to the bag.
Warranty: A good warranty can provide peace of mind, as it shows the company stands behind the quality of their product.
â—ˆ Security
Lockable Zippers: These deter thieves and provide an extra layer of security for your belongings.
RFID-Blocking Pockets: These protect your credit cards and passport from electronic theft, where thieves can remotely steal your information.
Hidden Pockets: Hidden pockets provide a safe place to store valuables like money or passports, away from prying eyes.
Slash-Proof Material: Some backpacks offer slash-proof material, making it difficult for thieves to cut the bag and access your belongings.
Reflective Material: Reflective strips or patches enhance your visibility when walking at night, contributing to your safety.
â—ˆ Weight
Lightweight Design: A lightweight backpack can make travel more comfortable and help you stay within airline weight limits.
Material Weight: The material of the backpack contributes to its overall weight; opt for durable yet lightweight materials like nylon or polyester.
Balance Weight with Features: While a lightweight backpack is desirable, ensure it doesn’t compromise on essential features like durability and organization.
Comfortable When Full: Try packing the backpack to see how comfortable it feels when full. A well-designed backpack should distribute weight evenly, making it feel lighter than it is.
Empty Backpack Weight: Check the weight of the empty backpack as it will contribute to your overall load.
â—ˆ Style
Personal Preference: Choose a backpack that aligns with your personal style. You’ll be carrying it around a lot, so you should like how it looks.
Versatility: Some backpacks convert into briefcases or shoulder bags, offering different styles for different occasions.
Color: Darker colors can hide dirt and stains better, but vibrant colors can make your backpack easy to spot on luggage carousels.
Professional Look: If you’re traveling for business, consider a backpack with a more professional look.
Match Your Environment: The style of your backpack should suit the environment you’ll be using it in. For instance, a rugged, outdoor-style backpack might not fit in at a business conference.
Final Verdict
Finding the best carry-on backpack for international travel should be an enjoyable experience.
Consider the above guide when choosing your backpack and try to find one that meets all the criteria.
Take into account size, comfort, organization, durability, security, weight and style. A quality backpack should have you well-prepared for any travel situation.
And while it may not be the most glamorous accessory in your travel wardrobe, having a reliable carry-on backpack can make all the difference between a smooth journey and one fraught with stress.