Wanting to try one bag travel and in the market for a new carry-on backpack? We’ve personally battle-tested each bag on this list to bring you the best carry-on backpacks of 2023.
Maybe you’re a one bag travel veteran, and you’re readily aware of just how critical it is to find the best carry-on backpack. Or perhaps you’re about to embark on your first trip, and you’re determined to travel the world with carry-on backpacks only to relieve some of the nerves.
Whatever the case, sifting through the mountain of options is, well…daunting. Of course, many travel backpack brands tout themselves as the be all end all. Which means that you’ve got more choices than toppings on a build-your-own pizza menu.
Except some people put pineapples on their pizza. And, in the same vein, not every carry-on is going to be the best carry-on bag for you.
Do you want a top-loader or do you prefer a front-opening bag? How do you feel about zippers or velcro? Snap or drawstring closure? What size backpack are you looking for? Just how durable does this carry-on backpack really need to be?
From modular to minimalist, I’ve compiled the best carry-on backpacks on the market today. I’ve also put together a section on specific features and details to pay extra close attention to when you’re making your final decision.
These are my top picks of the best carry-on backpacks for every scenario.
1. Tortuga Travel Backpack: Best Carry-On Backpack Overall
For dashing from country to country and city to city like the traveling pro you are, no bag can match space efficiency, durability, or style that the 40L Tortuga Travel Backpack brings to the table. There’s a reason it tops our list of the best carry-on backpacks.
The front-loader main compartment makes the Tortuga Travel Backpack open just like a suitcase, and it has plenty of open space for all the clothes you could possibly need for a successful one-bag adventure. But you organizers out there needn’t worry; there are ample pockets in this travel pack as well.
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Gear such as laptops and tablets will find dedicated sleeves, while anything and everything from underwear to toothbrushes can find a home in one of the many accessory pockets. Plus, the nearly indestructible sailcloth exterior will stand up to all the rigors of international travel.
But what the sailcloth boasts in durability it lacks in rigidity. So all the space and compartments available to you can be a bit bulgy, especially if you’re an over-packer. This may lead to an awkward sizing situation as you’re trying to board your flight with a large bulging bag as a carry-on. And be warned, that if you’re a superb over-packer, the bag may not fit in the carry-on sizing box at all!
Keep an eye on size, and utilize the padded shoulder straps and removable belt to distribute the extra heft this bag has.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack isn’t overly complicated. It has just the right features to keep you organized, and the comfort and durability make this travel pack really stand out from the crowd of carry-on backpacks.
Pros
- Incredibly durable sailcloth material
- Practically identical bag available in 35L and 45L
- Intuitively organized pockets and sleeves
- Plenty of open space for clothing storage
Cons
- Can easily expand beyond official carry-on size restrictions with a lot of gear stuffing
- A little on the heavy side
2. Peak Design Travel Bag: Best Carry-On Backpack for International Travel
If you’re an organized traveler, the Peak Design Travel Bag is just what you need. Peak Design has been in the pack industry for years, and it places a special emphasis on photography-compatible travel bags. So their products are ideal for those who plan on carrying camera gear. But don’t turn away if you’re not an avid photo taker.
The Peak Design Travel Backpack has pockets and sleeves galore in the 35 liters (expandable up to 45 liters). The laptop sleeve, hidden passport/document pocket, multiple mesh pockets, and dividers all work together to make sure that every single piece of your travel gear is securely stowed. The side-access pockets and full-panel opening also ensure that all this gear is accessible, while the impressive weatherproof zippers and nylon keep everything dry.
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The cons? Over-compartmentalization in the Peak Design Travel Backpack can sometimes limit the amount of travel gear you can bring if you’re continually trying to shoehorn items into dividers and pockets.
Still, while the Peak Design Travel Backpack is a little boxy, this backpack will hold its shape and sit upright even when empty, which can be a pro or con depending on your travel style. Speaking of style, this bag can be an ideal companion for one bag travel to cities, countrysides, or even safaris where camera users can really see the compartmentalization design shine.
While I wouldn’t recommend it for extreme hiking, The Peak Design Travel.
Pros
- Impressive pocket and organizing system
- Side access and full front panel opening
- Collapsible design
- Weatherproof
- Comfortable and stash-able shoulder and hip belts
- Well-padded laptop sleeve keeps your device safe
Cons
- Bag style is capsule-like and an acquired taste
- Over organizing may limit the amount of gear, as opposed to an open cavern bag design
3. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack: Best Carry-On Backpack for Women
For women looking for a comfortable and stylish carry-on travel backpack, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is hard to beat. This sturdy little bag will stand up to even the roughest treatment, and the interior is meticulously organized, making it easy to pack.
TPU-coated 1000 Denier Polyester is certainly nothing to sneer at. It will hold up to drips, drops, and drags with ease and, when the clouds come out, there’s a cover for the rain. While all this protection does add to the overall weight, you’ve got a practically bombproof bag.
Plus all the organization is top-notch. Once inside the suitcase-style zippered bag, you’ll find a main zippered mesh compartment for your larger items (clothes), as well as several smaller zippered mesh pockets on the opposite side for all your additional gear. (All external zippers feature security loops to hinder anyone who might try to open your bag and slip out any valuables.)
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Notice all the zippers? If you’re in a hurry or simply don’t like zipper-ing constantly, then this can be a hindrance. The intuitive organization, however, overshadows this handicap as there seems to be a custom spot for just about every piece of gear, including your laptop.
All in all, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a wonderfully stylish pack that can hold up to city or outdoor travel without breaking a sweat. Check out my full Cotopaxi Allpa review here.
Pros
- Heavy-duty TPU coated polyester
- Theft-proof webbing across all openings
- Very durable
- Wonderfully organized—practically packs itself
Cons
- Heavy for its size
- Hip belt seems to be an afterthought and is minimally useful
4. Aer Travel Pack 3: Most Versatile Carry-On Backpack
Gentlemen, your top choice of travel backpack may very well be the Aer Travel Pack 3. Stylishly designed, intuitively organized and thoughtfully furnished, you’ll find a spot for just about everything you need for a successful trip in the Aer Travel Pack 3. Aer already proved their bag design prowess in the original travel pack, and have truly outdone themselves to bring you this third-generation gem.
Aer has done some fantastic upgrades with the Aer Travel Pack 3. It’s slightly bigger at 35 liters (as opposed to 33 liters), and it fits a 16” inch laptop (as opposed to a 13” laptop). But it also has new load lifters for your comfort and to balance the weight on your back, and an improved compressed design so you can better access the main compartment while on the go.
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All this organization comes wrapped in the tried and true Cordura material that will withstand travel to every corner of the planet. Aer has, however, presented this durability in a sleek envelope that, while perhaps a little boxy for some tastes, will feel right at home in the urban landscape.
Another thing I love is the unique hidden smart tracker pocket where you can stash an Airtag or Tile device to help locate your bag if it goes missing. If you travel with a lot of photography or computer gear like me, this gives some added peace of mind.
The only thing missing is the shoe compartment, which Aer removed to make this bag more compressed. The plus side is that you get an extra 2 liters of space if you really want to pack them!
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Take note here: This is just for urban travel and not designed to hit trails or mountain tops. Please also note that, at 35 liters, it’s a little on the small side compared to other backpacks on this list, so you’ll have to pack very meticulously.
It is nevertheless a powerful performer and perhaps the best travel backpack you’ll ever own! For more information, check out our full Aer Travel Pack review.
Pros
- Fantastic organization
- Sleek and stylish design
- Very organized interior
- Extremely durability
- Tons of pockets
Cons
- Capacity is smaller than other packs
- Exclusively designed for urban travel—not a suitable hiking bag
- Doesn’t have a dedicated shoe compartment
5. Osprey Sojourn: Best Rolling Carry-On Backpack with Wheels
For making that infinity walk from security to gate G523, there’s nothing better than having a pair of wheels. But when curbs, uneven pavement and tight maneuvering come into play, having a backpack is absolutely gold. Osprey has figured out how to have both: the Sojourn rolling backpack.
When you’re rolling, you’ll have Osprey’s highroad chassis. This means big wheels for a smoother ride and improved clearance, a fiberglass base to trim some weight, and a telescopic handle. All these features work together to make a very stable platform to take all that weight off your shoulders.
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But when circumstances demand some shoulder toting, you’ll find Osprey’s backpacking prowess shine with the harness and hip belt system. Taking cues from their famous anti-gravity system, you have a breathable and comfortable mesh backing that partners perfectly with the mesh hip belt to distribute all the extra weight. All of this stashes behind a fabric cover when you decide to roll.
The full-front opening allows you to pack this bag just like a suitcase, and the plethora of internal pockets make organization simple. I’m particularly fond of the compression straps to help keep all your gear tight and organized while transitioning from backpack to suitcase mode.
While this bag is significantly heavier than your average backpack, the rollers should be taking this weight the vast majority of the time. But when the harness is needed, I’m very impressed by its support and comfort for such a bulky load.
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I therefore believe that the Sojourn is clearly the best travel backpack for carry-on that also doubles as a roller suitcase. My one wish is that it included a dedicated laptop compartment, but the Sojourn still shines in other departments!
Pros
- Roller suitcase and Backpack
- Osprey’s superb warranty
- Osprey’s superb harness system
- Internal straps for compression
Cons
- Very heavy
- No spinner wheels
6. Minaal Carry-On 2.0: Best Minimalist Carry-On Backpack
Not everyone needs more gadgets, straps and gear than 007 on a weekend trip — and sometimes simpler is better. That’s certainly the mentality that Minaal adopted for their Carry On 2.0, and they’ve certainly hit the nail on the head.
One word to describe the outside of the Minaal Carry-On 2.0: Slick. No overt bulging pockets and no unnecessary straps whipping to and fro. Just clean and uncluttered durable nylon that looks great and keeps your gear safe.
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That can be a huge benefit for traveling in Europe when you don’t want to have a giant flashy backpack that’s essentially a big neon sign saying, “I’m a tourist!”
You do, however, have two small easy-access pockets on the top of this Minaal bag, both of which, along with the main compartment, boast durable and weatherproof YKK zippers.
The clean and uncluttered approach continues inside the main clamshell opening where you have completely open space to play within one half, and two large mesh pockets for organization in the other half, and that’s all. The secondary, organizer section contains several smaller mesh pockets that are perfect storing important items such as phones, passports, etc.
Speaking of secure, Minaal’s suspension system keeps your devices loaded into sleeves and secured with velcro in the middle of your back. This system both prevents them from impacting the ground if you drop your bag and keeps the weight perfectly distributed.
For added security, you can also extend a zippered cover to secure the harness straps. But this cover must be very carefully stowed in order to avoid an annoying bump on your shoulders.
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So for an uncluttered, but no less functional, approach to one-bag travel, I urge you to seriously consider the Carry-On 2.0. No extra frills to boost weight and price, and every feature included is top-quality and indispensable to a seamless trip!
Pros
- Minimal exterior baubles and straps
- Secure laptop suspension system
- Clean and slick design
- Detachable hip belt
- Included rain cover
Cons
- The harness cover needs to be meticulously packed to avoid uncomfortable pressure on your back
7. Nomatic Travel Bag: Best Carry-On Laptop Backpack
Digital nomad on the road? The Nomatic Travel Bag is designed with you in mind. From laptop, tablet and electronics pockets aplenty to a sleek and durable exterior, this is the perfect bag to take your career on the road.
Let’s start with the obvious: electronics space. The padded laptop sleeve can accommodate any computer up to 15 inches, and there’s an adjacent smaller sleeve for your tablet. The bag also features a dedicated compartment full of pockets for other electronics.
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The dark side to storing all your electronics in one bag is, of course, the danger of leaking fluids or petty thievery. But Nomatic tackles this. For any water bottles, toothpastes, sun screen etc., Nomatic has provided a slick waterproof internal pocket.
As for security, the zippers to the main and laptop compartment are partially hidden to prevent easy access to your valuables. On top of that, these features are wrapped up in in a very sturdy duraflex tarpaulin material that is hardwearing and weather resistant.
However, the primary back panel is, for a reason unbeknownst to me, a different material that can allow some water to seep in. This is a distinct negative that can compromise your bag’s weatherproofing, so be aware before laying your bag down on a wet surface.
If you want to learn more about this bag, read the full Nomatic Backpack Travel Bag Review!
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Pros
- Packable laundry bag RFID blocking pocket
- Dedicated shoe compartment
- Internal waterproof pocket
- Very space efficient
Cons
- Boxy shape can be an acquired taste
- Back panel utilizes material that is not weather proof
8. Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L: Best Small Carry-On Backpack
For you ounce-counter travelers out there, this travel bag from Topo Designs may be just what you need. The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L has massive amounts of storage, organizational pockets, nicely padded shoulder straps, all armored in durable and water repellent nylon clocks in at only 3.65 pounds.
The full-front opening of the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L reveals a spacious main compartment where you can easily stash all the clothes you need for an extended stint abroad. But additional mesh pockets and a dedicated organization compartment are both ideals for storing everything from toiletries to socks.
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Have more delicate or valuable items such as computers or laptops? The dedicated laptop pocket of the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L can fit up to a 15″ computer, and the security pockets are great for passports and other important documents. Even more on the security front are the heavy duty YKK zippers plus security loop that can easily be locked up for your travel days.
Again, however, the con is that over-compartmentalization can complicate packing. If you like lots of pockets, you’ll love the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag.
Pros
- Excellent water repellent finish
- Lightweight for such a large bag
- Duffle strap for versatile carrying
- Load lifter straps
Cons
- Some color options are a little overt
9. Osprey Farpoint 40L / Osprey Fairview 40L: Best Carry-On Hiking Backpack
For hikers, the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview is absolutely the best carry-on bag. Osprey sets the gold-standard when it comes to hiking backpacks, and their Farpoint bag is a prime example of it.
First things first: The Farpoint is the men’s version of this bag and the Fairview is the women’s version. However, depending on your body type, you may find the gender delineation to be relatively meaningless.
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Secondly, the Osprey Farpoint is outlandishly comfortable. Carrying this bag doesn’t feel like you’re hefting a bulky box on your back, as Osprey’s finely tuned mesh hip and shoulder straps work in tandem with a low-profile frame to distribute the weight as evenly as possible. This makes it perfect for every situation from boldly striding through the airport, to strolling through a new city, all the way to discovering unforgettable mountain or jungle views while out for a hike.
Osprey’s incredibly comfortable mesh shoulder and hip belt make toting this bag over pavement or dusty trails simple, and the hip belt even has its own stash pocket when needed. The bag material itself is also designed for durability and its ripstop nylon should hold up to everything from airport jostling to rocky adventures, and still look good for your occasional city visits.
The Osprey Farpoint’s proclivity for excellence continues with regards to space and organization. The full-front panel access makes stashing all your travel gear a breeze. You’ll even find a dedicated sleeve for your laptop and tablet amongst all the pockets, as well as a stash pocket on the stowable hip belt.
And if 40L isn’t enough, their 55L version comes with a 15L detachable daypack for additional space.
For more info, check out my full Osprey Farpoint review and Osprey Fairview review.
Pros
- Osprey’s lifetime warranty
- Rugged and comfortable design for hiking
- Stylish enough for the trail or city travel
Cons
- Much fewer internal pockets than competitors—you may want to use packing cubes to stay organized
10. Pacsafe Venturesafe X40: Best Anti-Theft Carry-On Backpack
Pacsafe got started in 1998 by a pair of globetrotters who had had a fair few brushes with danger along the road. There’s nothing that ruins a trip more than getting robbed.
Pacsafe knows that people enjoy their adventures more if they feel secure. Their whole brand is built around the idea that, with their travel backpacks, global travel becomes a little bit safer.
The Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 is LOADED with features, particularly on the security front. To be honest, this travel pack is almost overkill! I’ve been to some hairy places around the world and the only time I ever experienced danger was one block from my friend’s house in a gentrified suburb in Australia.
But, if you like to play it safe, that’s fair enough. The Pacsafe Venturesafe X40 might be the best anti-theft backpack for you.
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Its built-in steel wire mesh panels prevent thieves from slashing your bag. The interlocking zip sliders are also puncture-resistant, and the anti-theft anchor lock and cable allows you to lock down your zippers and straps to a secure fixture. There are two additional zippered mesh pockets, a key/wallet clip, and extra pouches in the front compartment.
On top of that, it’s comfy! This travel pack comes with padded, adjustable straps, and a sturdy waist belt and sternum strap. The external side compression straps and stowable straps keep this bag sleek and tidy.
Pros
- Super secure
- Good organization, especially in the front pocket
- Flap cover to disguise locking system
- Protective laptop sleeve
- compression straps to keep everything snug
Cons
- The outer zip pocket needs to open wider — it’s hard to access everything
11. Tropicfeel SHELL Backpack: Best Expandable Carry-On Backpack
Every now and then a new travel backpack catches my eye simply for its unique and innovative design. The Tropicfeel SHELL Backpack is definitely that bag.
The innovative 3-in-1 adaptable design converts the bag into three different sizes: 22L (Daily), 30L (Weekend), and 40L (Adventure). If you’re looking for one simple bag that does it all, you’ll appreciate this one. The Tropicfeel team wanted to combine the ergonomics of a large hiking pack with the portability and lightness of an everyday backpack. I’d say they succeeded.
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The bag also has a clamshell opening that folds open like a suitcase, and inside you’ll find its unique inbuilt wardrobe system. You can store your belongings in different compartments of the wardrobe system, and then simply hang the bag in your hotel closet or on your bed. Voila, everything is within easy reach.
And other than all those fun highlights, you’ll find that the Tropicfeel SHELL Backpack still has all the features that come standard with a great pack, including weatherproof material, an adjustable sternum strap, a hip belt, and a straps holder to help tuck away stray straps.
Pros
- Expandable to three different sizes
- Unique wardrobe system to keep items separated
- Adjustable sternum straps and hip belt
- Lots of additional padding
Cons
- Comes with a hefty price tag
12. Able Carry Max Backpack: Most Comfortable Carry-On Backpack
The Able Carry Max Backpack is easily the most comfortable travel bag on this list. Everything about this bag is designed with optimal comfort in mind, and it works really, really well. If you want a backpack that works perfectly as both a travel backpack and a daily companion to your on-foot explorations, this is it. You’ll be able to wear this for hours on end and never feel burdened.
Why? In addition to the usual features (like sternum straps and a lightweight design), the Max Backpack’s unique A-Frame is where this bag really shines. It has anchor straps and tapered panels to keep your gear tucked away and to prevent sagging at the bottom of the bag. The ultra-wide cushioned straps spread out across your shoulders, and the multi-layer foam back panels help to keep you supported while also offering lots of ventilation.
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There’s tons of pockets and compartments to keep you well organized too, including a well-padded laptop sleeve for your devices up to 17”. There are four inner pockets and two on the outside, as well as an extremely well-hidden secret pocket.
You can also try out this backpack for 14 days. If you don’t like it, they’ll take it back no problem.
My only beef with this bag is that I don’t find the A-Frame particularly attractive. It’s a great carry-on bag and an everyday bag, but I don’t know if I’d take it with me on a work trip or a more formal outing.
Pros
- The unique A-Frame optimizes comfort
- Lots of pockets
- Laptop sleeve fits a device up to 17”
- Excellent 14-day return policy
Cons
- Limited colors
- The A-Frame isn’t particularly stylish
13. Mission Workshop Radian: Best Modular Carry-On Backpack
The Radian is a modular, adjustable and customizable powerhouse of a backpack that can be fine-tuned to fit just about any adventure you have in mind.
I am truly blown away by just how much you can adjust this bag to suit your own personal style. The roll top can be used with or without the velcro and with or without the Duraflex strap. Or just unzip the entire front panel and pack it like a suitcase—your style, your choice.
The harness system continues this trend by being incredibly plush, fully adjustable and allowing for a removable expedition waist-belt for serious adventuring. You additionally have the option to fold up and store the entire harness system behind a stretch back panel, which is absolutely perfect for a smaller, snag-free bag to throw in the overhead bins.
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The inside of this backpack is a straightforward cavern, with minimal additional pockets, though you do have a few organizational pockets on the underside of the main zippered flap and a massive laptop sleeve that can fit larger, 17″ computers. You can also purchase Arkiv accessories: separate pockets, packing cubes, folios, and sleeves that can be attached to any of the four exterior points. You could also just buy some aftermarket packing cubes too, if you prefer.
All these features are wrapped up in an ultra-durable Cordura or HT500 Textile that can handle the traveling punches and are weatherproof to boot. Easily making this beast—literally, this thing is almost five pounds — a modular lover’s best travel backpack for carry-on.
Pros
- Rolltop backpack
- 4 exterior attachment points for Mission Workshop’s Arkiv accessories
- Entire harness system can be zipped up and stored for easy loading in airplane bins
- Very adjustable and comfortable harness system Large laptop compartment
Cons
- Wider than most bags on the list
- Very heavy
- Expensive
14. Timbuk2 Impulse Travel Backpack Duffel: Best Carry-On Duffel Backpack
There comes a time in nearly every traveler’s life when shoulder straps seem to snag on everything in sight. Duffels tend to hold the upper hand in this case, and the Timbuk2 Impulse beautifully bridges this gap.
Easily unclip the backpack straps, and stow them in a dedicated pocket. Although you don’t have a strap for your shoulder in duffel mode, the two beefy handles on the sides of the bag are sufficient.
The zippered 17″ laptop compartment is external, so you’ll never have to dig again. You also have a quick access pocket, perfect for everything from plane tickets to snacks, that also has another mesh pocket inside for even more.
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The main, clamshell-open compartment reveals the bulk of those 55 liters. One side is left completely open for you to pack at will, while the opposite side features two mesh pockets for some slight organization. The many compression straps keep everything tight and compact. The Impulse also has a wonderfully isolated compartment at the base of the bag to keep smelly shoes or dirty clothes separate.
I must, however, point out one small nick in this bag’s armor. When in backpack mode, the straps can occasionally become unfastened from the bag when trying to pick it up.
Nevertheless, this occurs very rarely and is just a minor annoyance compared to all the awesome features packed in here.
Overall, this is a versatile carry-on backpack-duffel combo that’s great for any trip.
Pros
- Wide, fold-open main compartment
- Exterior laptop sleeve for easier access
- Shoe storage compartment
- Tuckable straps
Cons
- No dedicated shoulder strap for duffel mode
- Shoulder harness straps in backpack mode have finicky attach point that
- sometimes comes undone
15. eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack: Best Budget Carry-On Backpack
While I certainly believe that making the investment for a premium backpack is well worth the initial heartache in the beginning, this is not always practical. Enter the Mother Lode from eBags—a budget option that packs in the same features as most high-end carry-on backpacks.
The main compartment of this bag lives up to the “motherlode” name with a massive clamshell opening for all your bulky gear. A nifty fold-down divider can aid in organization, while the opposite side of the bag also offers mesh pockets for storage. This helps with staying organized without the extra cost of packing cubes.
Compression straps are also present in this portion of the bag to keep the bulk of your gear nice and secure.
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A separate organization compartment features a massive 19″ laptop pocket that is suspended to keep your computer from impacting the ground in case you drop it. The additional pockets here are also a nice complement to the exterior zippered pockets.
The best part? You can convert this backpack to a duffle or to a briefcase, too. Simply stow the shoulder straps into a dedicated pocket, or attach the removable shoulder harness for duffle mode.
While we’re on the exterior of this bag, it’s worth mentioning that the 900D polyester does feel a little thin and flimsy to the touch ,which may compromise its overall durability. (Notice that most of our bags are well over 1000D in material thickness.)
All and all, however, this is an excellent wallet friendly option with ample storage space, well-thought-out organization, and all the adjustability we need for reliable one bag travel. The TLS Motherlode Weekender therefore easily earns its title of best budget travel backpack.
Pros
- Budget friendly
- Fold down shelf in main compartment for additional compartmentalization
- Very large, suspended, laptop sleeve accommodating up to 19″ computers
- Convertible between backpack, duffel bag, and briefcase
Cons
- Material is a little thin and frail feeling