35 travel backpack target

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

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TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and in the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other carry-on backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy, has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 3 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Topo Designs

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Mystery Ranch

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

Aer Travel Pack 3 : This pack was comfortable to wear thanks to its supportively firm and cushioned back, while its rugged fabric stood up well to rough handling. Our tester subtracted some points for capacity, as it was a squeeze to get everything on the list to fit, and for the more function-forward style.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack : This bag is very nice to look at and proved quite durable. However, it's on the small side and the features aren't particularly travel-oriented—namely, the inflexible bottle holder and the magnetic flip top that is easily displaced when the pack is full.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag : Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

Monos Metro Backpack : Another looker, the design of this bag got high praise. We liked the 270-degree opening, the easy-release front pouch, and the comfortable straps. At 18 liters, this back is more of a complement piece to other luggage and could use a better weight distribution system.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable : The expansion feature was a hit once we figured out how to use it and the durability of this pack was undeniable. It was difficult to look past a faulty zipper design that got caught frequently when trying to close.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

The size of backpacks is generally measured in volume (liters) or dimensions (inches or centimeters). While it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying, a good starting point for a carry-on when flying domestically is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 total linear inches (115 centimeters) including all handles and wheels. This size comes out to a 43-liter pack, so anything smaller should easily meet any U.S. airline size restrictions. However, this is only the beginning, and several factors may increase or decrease your allowance, such as the size of the plane and flight class you book.

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

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Open story 35l travel backpacks now $39 at target (reg. $50).

Score the highly-rated durable Open Story 35L Travel Backpack for just $39 (reg. $50) at Target this week. Plus, shipping is free!

Available in four colors, this softside backpack is water-resistant fits up to a 17-inch laptop. It features interior mesh compartments and pockets with a zip-around closure, exterior zip pocket and back sleeve. The adjustable padded shoulder straps make it super comfortable to carry. It also has an integrated trolley strap that easily slips over a wheeled suitcase for added travel ease.

Here’s the deal:

Open Story 35L Travel Backpack  – $39 (reg. $50) -Use your RedCard for an extra 5% off makes it $37.05 shipped!

This offer is good through 4/6. Shipping is free.

See more deals at  Target .

© 2008-2022 Southern Savers, LLC. All content on this site is created by Jenny and her helpers and it's illegal to steal it!

Target’s 'Suitcase In Backpack Form' Travel Bag Is Pure Magic (And It's 20% Off)

HuffPost receives compensation from one or more retailers on this page, and HuffPost and its publishing partners may also receive a commission for purchases made via links. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

The dance between airline carriers and their passengers’ luggage has long been a delicate one. There’s nothing like waltzing up to the check-in counter with a bag that you’ve painstakingly packed to be sub-weight-limit only to find out that it’s not — and getting it to your destination will be an extra $75, please and thank you. Or to arrive at the boarding of a budget airline with your “carry-on” to be confronted with that stingy little box with clearly marked measurements that are sure to fall short of what you planned to bring on the plane.

Frequent fliers have therefore become well accustomed to stuffing as much as possible into as few square inches or liters as physics will allow — and when a bag comes along that appears to offer that Mary Poppins-like ability to stash a shocking amount of stuff, it’s worth noting. And when the bag in question is 20% off for a limited time? Everyone needs to know about it.

Target’s Open Story brand is known for its stylish and genuinely functional travel accessories — we’ve previously written up fan favorites like this suspiciously Away-like hardshell suitcase and the brand’s no-brainer, just-buy-it luggage scale that will save anyone from the aforementioned overweight baggage fees. This generously-sized backpack appears to be the next installment in this march of well-designed essentials, and it has a stunning number of long-winded five-star reviews testifying to its supreme functionality. Overall, it’s earned a 4.7-star reviews across 90 reviews (with 73 of them clocking in at five stars).

The 35-liter capacity bag has a clamshell closure, which opens completely flat, and one exterior zip pocket that opens to reveal a series of slip pockets for small essentials like passports, reading material and the like. The interior reveals two zipper-protected sides that are equipped with every conceivable shape of compartment for keeping clothing, toiletries and more organized with scientific precision, and the rear laptop sleeve holds a machine measuring up to 17 inches. One reviewer below described using packing cubes, but given the bag’s internal structure, we’re not even really sure that’s necessary. The whole shebang can be compressed shut with the help of adjustable exterior closures, and in addition to the padded backpack straps, there’s a side carrying handles and a luggage slip for use with handled rolling luggage.

Not every review is stellar, and some of the poorer reviews offer perspective on the bag’s size, which, at 19.25 inches tall, 13 inches wide and 8 inches deep, is perhaps a hair larger than, say, a traditional banker’s box . For some reviewers, the heft was too much — but this population pales in comparison to the number of customers who happily embraced the bag’s girth and stuffed it full of everything they’d need for trips up to three weeks long (in the instance of the reviewer below who brought it on a solo trip to Italy).

Enough from me, though — take a look at what some of the most informative reviews had to say (it was hard to narrow down) or just scroll all the way to get this magical bag in time for your next trip.

“ Took this as my sole bag for two weeks in Europe and it held out amazing. Fits neatly under the seat in front of me in my flight and holds a ridiculous amount of stuff. Very sturdy zippers and seams. A little uncomfortably on the shoulders when loaded heavy but manageable.” — Lg “ I used this item as a personal item on a Spirit flight. I was a little nervous it would be too big, but I didn’t have any problems! I tried not to overstuff, but of course still did. The straps to condense it smaller definitely helped. I have used it a few times since for weekend trips. All of the different pockets and compartments make it perfect for any small trip.” — Jayme “This worked great for my long flight! I was able to bring some clothes and all my things that I needed for my long flight. The computer pocket and small pocket were great for easy and quick access. I wanted the make of a suitcase in a backpack form and this is it. ” — RebF “ Single Greatest Luggage Purchase. Size is perfect for avoiding carry-on fees for air travel . So many well designed, convenient and supported compartments. Wears like a backpack, stores like a suitcase! Chef’s kiss!” — LFTravels “ I used this for a trip to Europe and it was great! I used compression packing cubes and it held a ton! I love that it still has a protected spot for my laptop and easy-access pockets. It held up really well!” — skb324 “ If you fly Spirit or Frontier then this is definitely a must-buy . I used it for the first time on a Frontier flight last week and just as I expected, I was stopped during the boarding process (along with like 5 other people) because I didn’t pay the extra fee to bring a carry-on bag. Luckily, I was able to squish it down, tighten the straps on the side, and unclip the shoulder straps to make it fit in the little metal bin. At that moment I said to myself “I have to give this thing a 5-star review,” so here I am. Now I’m buying one for my dad and my brother.” — Mia “ I needed a backpack for a 3-week solo trip to Italy and this was amazing. It was so sturdy and held up with all of the travel. It carried so much and the different compartments are super convenient. I love how it opens fully. It was very comfotable to wear and walk around with. I’ve used this bag several times since my trip and it has not disappointed. The ONLY negative thing I can think of is the zipper handles didn’t have a hole thick enough to use miniature locks (for safety while traveling). So we had to use a little creativity to make sure I could “lock” the zippers. That’s literally my only complaint though. I recommend this bag all the time.” — kbskate “Purchased for my bf last minute as he was flying to Vegas for a bachelor party. He didn’t purchase a carry on nor a checked bag and just planned on using a backpack. After packing all of his things I realized it would not fit so I quickly purchased this for pickup! It was awesome! The bag fit everything he needed for 4 days worth of things. He’s also a BIG guy so his things take up a lot of room. All and all it was prefect and spirit airlines had no issues ” — Kat

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These Backpacks and Duffels Meet Frontier and Spirit Airlines’ Strict Personal Bag Rules—and They’re Under $35

These bags might be small, but shoppers are amazed by how much they can fit inside.

Real Simple / Daisy Rodriguez

I absolutely love to travel anywhere and everywhere, and I get so excited when it’s finally time to start packing for a trip . Even though I’m always excited for my vacations to start, the one thing (other than flying) that causes the most anxiety for me is fearing that Frontier will flag my backpack for its size (even though that’s never happened to me—anxiety rarely makes sense). If you also have upcoming trips where you’re flying with Frontier Airlines or Spirit Airlines, I thought I would flag five personal bags that meet both airlines’ tricky size requirements that you can scoop up. And they’re all under $35 at Amazon.

According to Frontier Airlines , personal bags “can be no larger than 14 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 8 inches long.” The key thing to keep in mind is the bag you bring with you must fit under your seat and within the airlines’ “bag sizer.” Spirit Airlines requires that bags meet the same sizing requirements as Frontier Airlines, but they also note that the inches allowed include “handles and wheels.” And both airlines will measure bags they’re questioning. I’ve watched fellow travelers have to pay hefty fines at the gate because their personal bag is too large for the metal sizer and is instead categorized as a carry-on.

Thankfully, there’s an easy way to skip the bag size stress, and it’s by purchasing any of the five Amazon options highlighted below. Each backpack or duffel will pass the sizing test of both airlines as long as you keep one thing in mind: Don’t overstuff your bag. 

Narwey Packable Duffel Bag

The Narway duffel is available in a whopping 43 colors and patterns, and it’s an Amazon shopper-favorite with nearly 15,300 perfect ratings and 2,100 five-star reviews . It measures 18 inches by 13 inches by 6.3 inches, so neither Frontier nor Spirit will stop you to confirm its size (or if they do, you’ll know you’ll pass the test just fine). You can pack the bag with up to 45 pounds of essentials, according to the brand, and it’s even waterproof. Plus, it has a smaller zippered front pouch, which is a great spot to store your phone or passport to keep both safe and within easy reach. “If you're searching for the perfect personal item for airlines like Spirit, this bag is an absolute winner. With its ideal size, durability, functionality, and stylish design, it ticks all the boxes for a travel bag that seamlessly fits within the airline's restrictions while still providing ample storage space,” wrote one reviewer .

Wandf Foldable Duffel Bag

Similar to the duffel mentioned above, the Wandf bag also meets Frontier and Spirit Airlines’ personal bag requirements because it’s 17.7 inches by 12.6 inches by 6.3 inches. It also has a front zippered pocket to keep must-haves safely tucked away, and the brand points out that it’s made from nylon for extra durability. The weekender also boasts a travel sleeve on the bag that you can easily use to slide it onto a suitcase handle. And you can fold it up when you’re not using it, which makes it easy to put away after traveling. The duffel has nearly 11,000 five-star ratings and almost 1,700 perfect reviews . “I used it for a week trip to Florida and fit all my clothes and shoes,” said one reviewer , while another shopper added that their loved one borrowed the duffel and called it a “Mary Poppins bag” because they could fit so much inside.

Matein Laptop Backpack

“Most recently, I was able to carry two days of clothes, laptop, make-up bag, two small purses, [and] a denim jacket, and still had plenty of space to store things,” wrote one shopper who has flown on Frontier and Spirit Airlines with the Matein laptop backpack. It’s the top-seller in Amazon’s Laptop Backpacks category with 79,000 perfect ratings and a whopping 16,900 five-star reviews , and it’s available in 17 colors. The backpack measures 18 inches by 12 inches by 7.8 inches, and it has three separate zippered compartments and a luggage sleeve on the back. The laptop sleeve accommodates a 15.6-inch computer, the open middle compartment is ideal for clothes, and the smaller front pocket can easily hold your phone, tablet or Kindle, headphones, and additional small essentials. The other bonus about the backpack is it has a built-in external USB port, which you can use to connect your phone and external battery for on-the-go charging. 

Wonhox 16.9-Inch Travel Backpack

Packing a backpack can feel like a game of Tetris because the zipper rarely goes all the way down, but this personal bag solves that problem. The main zipper goes around the perimeter of the bag to allow you to open it completely, which is such a packing game changer. It measures 16.93 inches by 11.8 inches by 7.9 inches, and it even includes a laptop compartment for up to a 14-inch computer. You’ll also find additional zipper pockets inside the main section, as well as a separate shoe compartment and a smaller front pocket. Most importantly, shoppers love it and have awarded the backpack with 8,200 perfect ratings and nearly 1,700 five-star reviews . “I love this backpack! There are so many hidden pockets,” shared one shopper who packed five days worth of items inside for a trip. Plus, they confirmed that the bag is approved for Frontier Airlines flights.

Lovevook 15.6-Inch Travel Backpack

I love when backpacks look and feel elevated, and the multi-tone design and shape of this bag checks those boxes. It’s made from polyester and faux leather, and it’s 16.7 inches by 11.4 inches by 5.7 inches to stay in line with Frontier and Spirit Airlines’ personal bag size requirements. You’ll find an impressive five compartments and 19 pockets, including an anti-theft slot inside the bag, according to the brand, and it can fit up to 15.6-inch laptop safely inside. “This is my new ‘everything’ bag! It is great for work, for a weekend trip, or packing up for a full-day outing,” said one five-star reviewer . They mentioned that they appreciate how many pockets the bag includes, and they also like that “the bag stands solidly upright,” which is something they feel other options “lack,” and they’ve “relieved many compliments on it,” too. Plan to choose your favorite from 10 color combinations. 

Many personal bags on Amazon are priced under $35 and offer plenty of storage and spots to safely stow away laptops. So, pick up a new bag and spend your energy feeling excited about your travels rather than worrying about your personal bag meeting Frontier Airlines’ and Spirit Airlines’ respective strict requirements.

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This TikTok-viral Backpack Helps Travelers Go on 3-week Trips With Just a Carry-on — and It's $36 at Amazon

Wait until you see how many compartments it has.

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Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

There once was a time when I praised the simplicity of a tote bag as a personal item on the plane. And though I’ll always cherish that sweet, wearable memento of my summer in Portugal, I’ve changed my tune a bit since becoming a packing cube convert. Compartmentalization is a true game-changer, and our friends over on TikTok know it. Hence why the Vecave Travel Backpack is gaining popularity on the platform. 

When I see a product garner this much attention on TikTok, I know that everyone must be onto something. So I dug into the Vecave Travel Backpack to see what all of the hoopla was about, and found that it's a travel bag that covers literally all the bases. In fact, this bag has invented new bases to cover, with its waterproof compartments for toiletries, an isolated compartment for shoes, and a USB port for charging your phone on the go, to name just a few.

Vecave Travel Backpack

According to Amazon shoppers, you can easily fit one week's worth of clothes in the Vecave Travel Backpack — and, for reviewers that traveled longer than that, it helped them go on two- to three-week vacations with just a carry-on. It's the backpack's "top-tier" storage space that's winning over TikTokers. In one video, a traveler can be seen packing multiple toiletry bags inside of the waterproof compartment. They also added a pair of sneakers to the designated shoe compartment (which one Amazon shopper noted can fit up to two pairs) and packed several clothing items (both in packing cubes and rolled on top) in the main compartment. 

Highlighting its other features, the TikToker slipped their iPad into the padded laptop compartment (which fits a 14-inch laptop) and stashed away tiny essentials in the discrete back pocket (perfect for passports, phone, wallets, keys, and other valuables) and easy-to-reach front pocket, which we'd use for things like our boarding pass, headphones, gum, and whatever else we'd need fast access to in-flight. 

What's more, it's equipped with memory foam straps for extra comfort and a pass-through sleeve that allows it to securely fasten over your luggage handle, which will come in handy when you're trying to breeze through the airport or need to be hands-free. 

But, in addition to its thoughtful features, TikTokers also love that the Vecave Travel Backpack 's 11.8-inch by 7.9-inch by 16.9-inch frame allows it to be considered a personal item on budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier. In a video by TikTok user @2wfhmomsview , she raved that the backpack was "able to fit everything I needed" during a recent flight and ended up helping her save money in the long run by not having to bring a carry-on suitcase. 

Listen, travel is stressful. Not the actual experiential part of seeing the world and trying new experiences; we live for that stuff. I’m talking about the commuting part, getting through airport security and immigration, or filing onto a train or bus and arriving at your accommodations with everything that you left the house with. We're always looking for ways to make the getting there part smoother, which is why the Vecave Travel Backpack is an essential tool for navigating like an organized, level-headed pro. 

Amazon has a few more popular carry-on backpacks similar to the TikTok-famous Vecave bag, so keep scrolling to investigate your other options.

More Travel Backpacks at Amazon: 

Coowoz travel backpack, sinaliy large travel backpack, taygeer travel backpack , wonhox large travel backpack, lubardy travel backpack.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $37. 

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