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10 best carry-on suitcases for business travel

Why do suitcases even matter?

Top 10 best suitcases for business travel

Best sustainable suitcase, ecoalf small trolley.

Best hard-side carry-on

Samsonite winfield 2 fashion carry-on spinner.

Best soft-side carry-on

Lipault original plume spinner.

Best spinner carry-on

Delsey st tropez trolley.

Best two-wheel carry-on

Eastpak transverz s triple denim.

Best luxury suitcase

Rimowa original cabin twist.

Best carry-on/backpack combo

Indulge by kipling.

Best carry-on under $100

Amazon basics soft-side carry-on.

Best under-seat luggage

Steve madden luggage wheeled underseat bag.

Most stylish carry-on

Metier london.

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The best carry-on luggage of 2024.

Discover the best carry-on luggage for your unique travel style and needs.

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Things aren't always as they seem – especially when it comes to luggage. In our quest to find the best carry-on bags, we discovered that while some suitcases look good, they don't always hold up to the demands of travel. Some designs have attractive features that add bulk but not additional functionality, while others just don't live up to the hype.

To determine the best carry-on luggage, we tested dozens of bags on countless trips to find the ideal bag for every travel need. Read on to find the best option in a variety of categories, tested and reviewed by our team of experts.

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓
• Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on Hardside Spinner

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

Best soft-sided: samsonite solyte dlx carry-on spinner, best lightweight: july carry on light, best for international travel: delsey paris helium aero international carry-on - expandable spinner, best affordable: amazon basics 20-inch hardside spinner.

• Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner
• Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best for Business Travel: Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner – 20.4 Inch

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

• Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder–22"

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)

Price:  $315 or less

Dimensions: 22.4 x 14.6 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds; 8.85 pounds with closet insert Packing capacity: 4-7 days |  Color options:  Red, purple, navy or 6 others, plus precious metals options Hard- or soft-sided:  Hard-sided   | Warranty: Lifetime

Sturdy and attractive, this suitcase is set apart from the rest by its patented and removable shelving system. This unique design feature makes packing easier, keeps items in place and removes the need for unpacking at your destination. Rather than a zippered clamshell design, the Solgaard Carry-on Closet has two latches that open with just the squeeze of two levers together; it secures with a TSA-approved lock.

The waterproof polycarbonate exterior has an aluminum frame and corner guards so this suitcase can withstand all the rigors of travel. There's also an ergonomic handle and frictionless wheels, which make it easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. What's more, this sustainable suitcase helps to repurpose 6 pounds of plastics that may have ended up in the ocean.

What our editors say:

This carry-on suitcase has it all! From the power bank (sold separately) to the super sturdy and comfortable handle to the removable closet feature – not to mention the attractive yet functional appearance – this suitcase packs a punch. I really like how easy it is to pull on a variety of surfaces, including carpet and brick. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 10 days; 45 liters | Color options: White, red, blue, green or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a truly well-rounded carry-on with a plethora of unique features. USB A & C ports on the outside of the bag give easy access to charging. (A power bank is not included, though the bag does have a pocket for one inside the expansion zipper.) Self-aligning magnetic wheels – a reviewer-favorite feature – allow painless travel through the airport as well as on roads, sidewalks, uneven surfaces and more. A built-in TSA zipper lock offers ultimate protection for your possessions.

Even without the features listed above, this Travelpro spinner is, at its core, a high-quality piece. The hard outer shell is ultra-strong and 100% polycarbonate; aluminum corner guards further protect your belongings. The clamshell-style suitcase has two large interior compartments along with three extra pockets, one of which is water-resistant, and the expansion zipper allows for an extra 2 inches of packing room. Plus, this carry-on is made with genuine leather trim, so you can travel in style as well as comfort.

There are some amazing features on this carry-on, but my favorite is the wheels – as someone who typically prefers hands-free travel (primarily backpacks), I found that the way this suitcase easily glides around everywhere absolutely changed my mind about wheeled luggage. Just know that since this is one of the larger bags on this list, I would still check your airline's carry-on size requirements before traveling (though it's been tested for most major domestic airlines, and it fit perfectly on Delta). – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 39.8 liters | Color options: Black, navy, blue gray or olive, plus 2 glossy options Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited

When it comes to hard-sided carry-on luggage , nothing beats The Carry-On by Away. The bag is lightweight yet indestructible thanks to a 100% polycarbonate exterior. Plus, you can easily wipe away most scratches with a magic eraser.

In late 2023, Away launched a new iteration of The Carry-On that somehow made it even more efficient. The most notable new features are an additional underside grab handle, three extra interior compartments, and an enhanced compression system that upholds the bag's ability to accommodate nearly a week's worth of clothing. The bag's 360-degree wheels are also slimmer than those of its predecessor for improved maneuverability. While Away has long been known for its neutral colored matte options, glossy options of this bag are now available.

The Away Carry-On is my ride or die. I've taken it on so many trips over the past five-plus years and it's still in perfect shape. I know I'll have it with me for many years to come. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content and SEO Strategist

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Black, gray, green, aqua blue or royal blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This classic soft-sided option from Samsonite offers everything you need for a smooth trip. There are three spacious pockets and a trolley strap on the outside so you can stack it on top of another rolling suitcase, as well as a USB port for charging your phone (though you'll have to purchase a battery separately).

Inside the suitcase, three more zippered pockets – including one for wet items – help you stay organized, while buckles keep the main compartment's tie-down straps out of your way while packing. This spinner can conveniently expand by 0.75 inches, but keep in mind if you're flying that overpacking may put it over your carry-on size allowance.

I've used other spinner suitcases in the past, but none of them glide as smoothly as this bag, with its 360-degree dual-spinner wheels. I also love the high-quality, lightweight material, but my favorite part is its organizational features – especially the WetPak pocket. I'd highly recommend the Samsonite SoLyte DLX for anyone who needs a trusty soft-sided carry-on for a flight; it definitely fits more than I thought it would. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $245 or less

Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.17 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 3.9 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Beige, light green, dark green, lilac, charcoal or 3 others Hard- or soft-sided: Hard | Warranty: Lifetime with 100-day returns

Weighing just under 4 pounds, this bag is the lightest hard-sided carry-on we found on the market. It's constructed with an extremely durable German polycarbonate shell, and the interior has two mesh zippered compartments to keep your belongings from shifting. The inner nylon lining is also resistant to water and stains. To make the suitcase easy to maneuver, there's a top carry handle, a telescoping handle and dual-spinner wheels.

I was absolutely shocked by how light this suitcase is. While some lightweight designs can be extremely flimsy, this July carry-on is very durable and holds a good amount of clothing. With compression packing cubes I was able to pack enough clothing for a week. It was extremely easy to put in the plane's overhead compartment, and the wheels rolled very smoothly for my entire journey. The only thing I noticed is that since the bag is so lightweight, the trolley bag I had was making it want to topple. Next time, I'd use a smaller tote or a north-south design to avoid that issue. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 inches | Weight: 8.16 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 41 liters | Color options: Black, blue, red or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This DELSEY PARIS carry-on is a well-built piece of hard-sided luggage. It meets carry-on suitcase size restrictions for most international airlines and offers an easily accessible front compartment – ideal for a laptop up to 15.6 inches or other items you want to be able to grab quickly. The suitcase has a TSA lock and two spacious internal compartments for clothing, shoes and travel gear. The double-spinner wheels glide smoothly across all types of surfaces, and the handle pulls out and retracts with ease.

I was incredibly impressed by this little workhorse of a carry-on bag. There are so many different pockets and compartments within it for organization, and it fits a surprising amount of clothes, shoes and accessories. The handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and the glossy exterior makes it look sleek and chic. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

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Price: $80 or less

Dimensions: 21.46 x 14.76 x 9.45 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 23 liters | Color options: Black, navy blue, orange or light blue Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

The Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner is similar to many other hard-sided luggage products on the market, but it's available at a fraction of the price. The ABS shell is textured, so even if you – or luggage handlers – bang it around a bit, it does not show scuffs or scratches easily. The double-spinner wheels (a must, honestly, in today's luggage landscape) make the bag effortless to maneuver.

Inside, one side of the bag features a compression strap, while the other has a large fabric zippered closure, complete with a few organizer pockets for smaller items. Thanks to its availability on Amazon Prime, the carry-on luggage ships quickly, so it's also a great option if you need new luggage in a crunch.

This carry-on bag is a superb selection for the budget-conscious traveler. I appreciated how much I was able to get into this bag (it doesn't look huge, but it fit quite a lot), and the textured exterior really ups the durability factor. The compression straps and the interior organizer even helped me squeeze in a bit more. – Erin Evans

Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner

Price: $699 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 (up to 11.5) inches | Weight: 10 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 37-48 liters | Color options: Black, navy or olive Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

The Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner has a standout feature that other bags on this list don't: one-touch CX expansion. Exclusive to Briggs & Riley, this technology allows your bag to expand and compress in one swift motion. Simply press and pull up on the red levers found at opposite ends of the bag, and it will grow 2.5 inches. Once you've packed your belongings, push down on the buttons to compress the bag before zipping it up.

This bag also features a garment folder to reduce wrinkles in a suit or dress, as well as cinch-down garment panels to secure the clothing in place. Other convenient features include interior mesh compartments for organization, an exterior pocket for airport essentials (or even your laptop) and a signature PowerPocket where you can charge your smartphone.

While the bag is undoubtedly an investment at $700, its "simple as that" guarantee (free repairs forever, no questions asked) – plus sturdy features like impact-resistant corner guards and self-repairing zippers – means you'll have it for life.

When it comes to quality, this is the best luggage I've ever used – period. The compression/expansion system is just the icing on the cake. – Amanda Norcross

Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Price: $165 or less

Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.1 pounds Packing capacity: 2-4 days; 34 liters | Color options: Chocolate, oatmeal or rose quartz Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 2-year limited

Compact and filled with useful features, this CALPAK underseater has a water-resistant exterior, a TSA-approved lock, and side and top handles for easy lifting into the overhead or pushing under the seat. There's a telescoping handle, a luggage trolley sleeve and two exterior pockets for stowing small items like your passport, boarding pass and earbuds.

On the inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve, multiple interior pockets and compression straps. For added convenience, the main panel can be secured via built-in snaps to get your laptop out while traveling (and keep your other belongings from spilling out), or you can unsnap it while packing to maximize the interior storage space.

When I'm traveling on a quick trip with my laptop, this is my go-to bag. Its compact size glides easily under the seat, and it's also compact and light enough to fit into the overhead bin even on the smallest regional planes. I love the laptop sleeve and the zippered exterior pocket for my book, earbuds and wipes. To maximize the interior space, I use compression cubes from Lug , and I'm able to squeeze in four to five outfits, a pair of shoes and daily necessities. – Rachael Hood

Price: $83 or less

Dimensions: 20.4 x 14.9 x 8.2 inches | Weight: 6.35 pounds Packing capacity: 2-3 days; 26 liters | Color options: Black, olive, gray, red, blue or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

This simple but sturdy carry-on piece from Amazon is a great option for business travelers, thanks to its front pocket for easy laptop access, smooth double-spinner wheels and TSA lock. This Amazon Basics soft-sided carry-on also features a handle on the bottom between the wheels, which makes it easy to put the bag up into and pull it out of the overhead bin. On some airplanes, it may even be small enough to fit under the seat.

The interior of the bag features one large compartment with two compression straps, plus two zippered pockets on the opposite site. The 20.4-inch option is ideal for shorter trips, but this style is available in larger sizes as well. Another bonus: It's available on Amazon Prime, so it ships quickly.

This Amazon Basics option is on the smaller side for a carry-on, but that's what makes it a solid choice for business travelers going on short trips who only need to pack a few things. The laptop pocket is easily accessible, and the handle on the bottom of the bag is super useful for hauling it out of an overhead bin. The black color is professional, and the price can't be beat. – Erin Evans

Price: $565 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 43 liters | Color options: Gray/cognac, gray/chocolate, gray/black or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime with a 100-day trial

Constructed with premium materials, this luxury carry-on has Italian leather accents, Japanese spinner wheels and a polycarbonate exterior with an aluminum metal frame for stability. It closes via two secure latches with combination locks (rather than a zipper). There's a front laptop compartment with a smaller pocket and pen slots to keep business essentials or travel documents easy to access.

The interior has leather details, compression straps and a removable compression pad with a pocket – ideal for small items like ties, fashion jewelry or silk scarves. Travelers can also purchase an additional compression pad to have a pad on each side of the interior compartment.

This suitcase exudes luxury with its Italian leather trim and understated elegance. The design of it looks very sleek, the interior is spacious, the handle is very sturdy and the wheels glide with ease. I especially liked that the top of the suitcase is very flat, which gave my trolley bag a secure base so it wasn't moving around while I was at the airport, and the front compartment was ideal for accessing my laptop on the go. It feels very sturdy, but the only downside is it weighs more than a typical carry-on. – Rachael Hood

Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22"

Price: $270 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 40 liters | Color options: Black Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The North Face's 22-inch Rolling Thunder duffel doesn't have the bells and whistles of other carry-on options, but it's a sturdy and reliable option for those who want a duffel style on wheels. The duffel has a hard-sided back panel, two wheels that can withstand various terrain and plastic bumpers for abrasion resistance. The soft-sided top of the bag is made of water-resistant Base Camp material and nylon for extra durability. There are two zippered pockets on the outside to stash small items and a mesh pocket inside for some added organization.

I brought this duffel on a trip to New Zealand, and it held up very well. The Rolling Thunder had no issues after being checked on six different flights, and the flexibility of the style allowed me to easily store it out of the way in my campervan once I had unpacked. It's definitely a simpler style, but it does its job well. Be aware, though, that this wheeled style doesn't have straps that would allow you to carry it like a duffel; it can only be rolled. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $200 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-10 days; 35 liters | Color options: Multiple options but color availability changes frequently Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

When it comes to hands-free and adventure travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can't be beat. This lightweight carry-on backpack comes with a sternum strap, a removable waist belt and a weight-distributing harness system, all to make for a comfortable carry (since sore shoulders can be a concern when it comes to carrying backpacks through time-consuming airport experiences).

Organization is a breeze with a top zippered pocket – perfect for storing travel documents or a Cotopaxi hip pack – and a padded laptop sleeve on the outside. Internally, you'll find two mesh compartments, one large and one subdivided, that work great with Cotopaxi packing cubes . The backpack's straps can be tucked away for more streamlined travel, and the bag even comes with a rain cover (though the Allpa is already TPU-coated to be water-resistant).

Furthermore, Cotopaxi is dedicated to sustainability : 94% of Cotopaxi products contain repurposed, recycled or responsible materials. The vibrant, one-of-a-kind Del Dia Allpa backpacks , for example, use remnant fabric.

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures and it's survived everything – wind, rain, being shoved into tiny rental cars, you name it. Besides being incredibly durable, I love how much this backpack can fit; my longest trip so far with only the Allpa 35L as my luggage has been a comfortable nine days, and that included packing bulky cold-weather gear. I just wish it had a water bottle pocket like the Allpa 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson

Also Recommended

Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner: While the Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner is a solid (and sustainable) carry-on bag for less than $200, it doesn't offer quite enough space – especially for someone who may be traveling for longer.

Away The Aluminum Carry-On Bag: This is a well-built carry-on bag. The only downfall is that it's on the heavier side, weighing nearly 11 pounds. Away's Aluminum Carry-On is also more than twice the cost of the standard carry-on by Away, which works just as well.

Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: This is a great soft-sided option if you're looking for a lightweight suitcase. Featuring a sleek nylon construction, a large front exterior pocket and internal zippered pockets, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner works well but isn't as lightweight as the July Carry-on Light.

Monos Carry-on Plus: It's a high-quality suitcase with a lot of internal details, but given its larger size this bag doesn't fit in the overhead compartment on multiple planes (especially regional jets). That said, if you're traveling domestically on larger planes, the Monos Carry-on Plus could be an option to consider. Or, the smaller standard Monos Carry-on could be a good option as well.

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

Pros and cons of soft-sided luggage, frequently asked questions.

Aside from traditional rolling suitcases, the following items can be used as carry-on luggage provided they meet carry-on size limitations (which vary by airline) and fit in the overhead bin or fully under the seat (not sticking out) in front of you.

• Duffel and weekender bags:  This includes weekenders and duffel bags with wheels . Just note that wheels are included in carry-on dimension restrictions.
• Garment bags:  These are also considered carry-on baggage by most airlines. You can place your garment bag in the overhead bin, or in some cases, a small closet on the plane.
• Pet carriers:  Some airlines consider pet carriers to be carry-on luggage. Check with your chosen airline when preparing for your trip with Fido.
• Backpacks:  If your carry-on backpack fits under the seat, it will count toward your personal item allowance on most major airlines. This means you'll have the option to bring an additional bag for the overhead bin.
• Diaper bags: If you're traveling with a baby, diaper bags and other baby travel gear generally don't count toward either allowance – meaning you can bring these items in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item.

Purses , briefcases and camera bags can be carried on the plane as well, but usually aren't considered carry-on bags and are instead labeled personal items. Underseater bags – often designed specifically to fit comfortably under a plane seat – are also ideal as a personal item.

Typically, travelers can bring one carry-on bag (for the overhead bin) and one personal item (for under the seat) on the plane, free of charge.

Carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline. Several major U.S. carriers, such as American Airlines and United, impose a 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule. If you're buying new carry-on luggage, this is a good default size to choose – especially if you fly with a variety of airlines.

For international airlines, it's often 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. To be sure about dimensions as well as any weight restrictions, see our guide to Carry-on Luggage Size & Weight by Airline . It usually doesn't matter how heavy your carry-on bag is, though some airlines do monitor the weight.

• Hard-sided: The hard-sided July Carry On Light weighs less than 4 pounds, making it one of the most lightweight carry-on bags on the market. Other lightweight carry-on bags we recommend include the hard-sided Away The Carry-On (7.5 pounds) and the Amazon 20-Inch Hardside Spinner (7.3 pounds).
• Soft-sided: If you're looking for a lightweight, soft-sided carry-on bag, consider the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner (4.8 pounds) and the Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner (7.1 pounds).

Hard-sided luggage is often heavier than soft-sided luggage – but only by a few pounds. If you're planning to purchase a hard-sided carry-on bag, look for something that's made of polycarbonate or polypropylene, both of which are lightweight yet durable materials.

How We Tested

Our team tested 26 carry-on bags across several price points and on a variety of trips spanning overseas flights, weekend getaways, overnight trips and more. We traveled by car, plane, train and cruise and packed for a variety of climates and activities, from shore excursions in Mexico to rainy road trips around Iceland. For bags with wheels, we tested their maneuverability on multiple surfaces, including gravel, pavement, grass, moving walkways, cobblestone and carpet. After four months of testing, we deem these carry-on bags the best of the best for 2024.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

The following editors personally tested the luggage recommended in this article:

Erin Evans , Managing Editor: Evans loves a durable bag and also can't say no to a good deal. Considering how banged up luggage can get, her picks on this list are both well-made and affordable.

Rachael Hood , Senior Editor: Hood rarely checks a bag, yet she loves to pack a lot and pick up some new finds along her journey. She looks for a combination of durability, functionality, interior space and overall appearance.

Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor: Kendall opts for convenient and versatile carry-ons that can work well for weekend and weekslong trips alike.

Amanda Norcross , Content & SEO Strategist: Norcross has mastered the art of traveling with a carry-on bag only, but believes this is only possible with the right luggage.

Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer: Osmundson prefers lightweight, streamlined luggage that's ideal for adventure travel.

You might also be interested in:

• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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The Best Carry-On Luggage for Business Travel

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here .

Savvy frequent flyers pay special attention to every little detail when booking flights, hotels, and rental cars; this same vigilance applies to buying gear. This can be doubly true of business travelers, mainly because their needs can be more stringent than leisure travelers.

Those who frequently go on work trips must keep their documents, laptops, smartphones, and other electronics safe at all times, so they need luggage that accommodates these needs and meets airline regulations in weight and size. And, ideally, without risking lost luggage by having to check a bag.

An excellent piece of luggage will not only be ideal for keeping your essentials organized and secure, but it’ll also give you the peace of mind you need during your travels so you can focus on the job at hand. Below you’ll find some of the best carry-on luggage for business travel on the market so you can have the peace of mind you deserve.

Monos Hybrid Carry-On

Possibly the perfect carry-on suitcase for business travelers, Monos’ Hybrid Carry-On combines the best features of polycarbonate and aluminum luggage into a single premium rolling trolley. While most of the shell is crafted from lightweight thermo-plastic, the corners and latch are reinforced with aluminum to add extra protection to potential impact points and eliminate the possibility of a zipper malfunction. The result is a piece you can covet for years, and happily so, thanks to the intelligent organization features.

Not sure if it’s the right fit for you? My detailed Monos Hybrid Carry-On review might help you decide.

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On Pro

Business travel requires a professional-looking case made of premium materials, and The Carry-On Pro from Carl Friederik is exactly that – and so much more. Crafted from first-rate polycarbonate, with a secure aluminum lock frame, silent Japanese spinner wheels, and sleek leather details, it delivers the ultimate blend of style and performance.

Apart from its good looks and outstanding construction, a few other things stood out when testing the bag: the snap-shut locks are way more secure and satisfying to use than a zipper, and the hard-shell front pocket, complete with a laptop compartment, is truly a lifesaver and makes passing security a breeze.

Thanks to an ideal combination of size, aesthetics, and innovative features, this suitcase has also emerged as one of the best carry-on luggage for business travel in our tests.

Horizn Studios M5 Smart

A combination of innovation and eco-conscious design makes the Horizn Studios M5 Smart the perfect cabin suitcase for business travel. This carry-on, with its robust, partially recycled German polycarbonate shell and chic vegan nylon front pocket, not only withstands the rigors of travel but also speaks to the environmentally aware traveler. Its sleek design and lightweight structure are meticulously tailored for effortless air travel, ensuring your journey is as smooth as your arrival.

Functionality meets sustainability in the M5 Smart’s design. The one-click removable smart charger keeps your devices powered up, eliminating the hassle of searching for power outlets. The four-stage telescopic handle and TSA-approved lock, coupled with the smooth glide of the Japanese spinner wheels, provide security and ease of movement, essential for the fast-paced business traveler.

Inside, the M5 Smart reveals its true genius. The interior, crafted from the finest recycled materials, offers an ideal layout with dual zippered mesh compartments and a compression pad. This design not only maximizes space but also keeps your business attire and essentials impeccably organized and wrinkle-free. The addition of a premium laundry bag adds a thoughtful touch, enhancing the overall packing experience.

July Carry-On Pro

If you hate the struggle to free your laptop from your carry-on to pass through security, you’ll want to consider July’s Carry-On Pro seriously. Designed so that the included laptop sleeve – which has room for your passport, documents, keys, and other essentials in addition to a 16″ laptop – attaches directly to the front of the case, it’s easy to snap off quickly to place through the scanner.

Like many contemporary suitcases, this one comes with an integrated power bank. However, the Carry-On Pro has a mechanism that quickly ejects the device whenever you’d like to tote it with you separately. Combined with its premium organization features, the Carry-On Pro is a strong candidate to become your new favorite travel companion.

Béis Soft-Sided Collapsible Carry-On Roller

Perfect for corporate urbanites living in small spaces, the Soft-Sided Collapsible Carry-On Roller from Béis folds into a slim profile to store it away. When you’re ready to travel, the integrated wall panels in the interior snap right into place, ready to pack.

The easy-access front pocket can carry your laptop and essentials you need to keep at hand and includes a cord pass-through you can use with a battery bank to charge your phone on the fly. Though it’s packed with functionality, the design is far more distinguished and streamlined than your average soft-side trolly, so it’s as impressive to look at as it is to use.

Briggs & Riley International 21″ Carry-On Spinner

A lightweight, hard-shell suitcase that’s perfect for those who travel with tech, the Briggs & Riley International 21″ Spinner has a dedicated hard-shell space for your essentials aside from the main compartment. Opening the hinged front pocket reveals several organizational dividers, with room for your laptop, hard drives, cables, and even a small drone. And its double-spinner wheels are designed to keep the bag upright even when the front panel is open.

The main compartment boasts all the amenities business travelers require: built-in mesh suiting straps, cinch-down garment dividers, and midline panels to keep your belongings organized.

Samsonite Stryde 111 Carry-On Spinner

Although they’re already a legacy brand, Samsonite’s Stryde 111 Carry-On Spinner proves they’re never done innovating. While its exterior appears deceptively simple – although beautifully designed – the back has a retractable luggage pass-through, allowing it to rest on top of a check-in bag, and the handle telescopes out to reveal LEDs that ensure you’re visible, even on dark streets.

Business travelers especially will appreciate the included amenities: pocketed dividers split the bag at the midline; the matching toiletry bag and packing cube keep your essentials mobile, and dual USB charging ports power up your devices in transit.

MVST Select Space Aluminum Suitcase

MVST makes some of the coolest aluminum luggage out there , and this stunning cabin case marries retro sensibilities with updated functionality to prove it. Though it bears the ultra-secure latch closure that makes checking a bag worry-free, its TSA-approved size ensures you may never have to. Pocketed panels split the Space Aluminum Suitcase at the midline to keep your things organized, whether laying it flat to rifle through your belongings or hefting it into the overhead bin.

Tumi Oxford 16-Inch Compact Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Oxford 16-Inch Compact Wheeled Carry-On is a quintessential choice for business travelers seeking both luxury and practicality. Designed to snugly fit under an airplane seat, this small carry-on is ideal for short trips where efficiency and accessibility are key. Its sophisticated design features a two-way, top-zip closure and a sleek, top carry handle, complemented by a five-stage telescoping handle. The exterior boasts a front straight-zip pocket, four recessed wheels for smooth mobility, and the unique TUMI Tracer luggage tag for added security.

Internally, the Tumi Oxford is a marvel of organization. It offers two spacious main compartments, seamlessly connected by a U-zip pocket, allowing for versatile packing options. The carry-on is equipped with a dedicated, lockable laptop compartment, fitting most 14″ laptops, and includes a built-in USB cable for on-the-go charging (power bank sold separately). Additional features like two media pockets, a card pocket, and a pen pocket cater to all your tech needs, making this carry-on not just a luggage piece, but a mobile office companion.

Hook & Albert Garment Luggage Carry-On

Already featured in our men’s carry-on luggage piece, we truly believe this cabin-sized garment suitcase from Hook & Albert will make business travelers’ life a lot easier. Made of lightweight Ballistic nylon, with elegant top-grain leather details and a pair of smooth-gliding wheels, the bag is both stylish and easy to maneuver. It also comes with durable YKK zippers, a TSA-approved lock, and a front zip pocket for quick access to essentials.

Where the Garment Luggage Carry-On really stands out is in its brilliant design – a garment section designed to keep up to two suits wrinkle-free folds out into a suitcase shape, creating room for more clothes and accessories inside. Here, an adjustable compression system keeps everything neat and compact, helping you pack more into the available space.

Level 8 Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket 20”

With a beautiful, minimalist profile, the 20″ Pro Carry-On With Laptop Pocket from Level 8 perfectly marries functionality with design. Inside you’ll find panels and straps typical of a rolling carry-on, though it’s maximized internally by the innovative placement of the handle and wheels.

The real boon is the hard-shell front pocket: though it looks incredibly slim from the exterior, opening it reveals a finely crafted organizational dock for your laptop, phone, passport, and other small essentials. While the main compartment has a three-side zipper, the front pocket is equipped with a quick-open latch to help you breeze through security even faster.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Spinner

Dynamic, ultra-lightweight, and affordable, the Maxlite 5 Softside Spinner from Travelpro is an ideal choice for both business and leisure travel. It has several smart features for the business traveler, such as organizational dividers in its front pocket. But if you occasionally jet off on vacation, it can expand 2 inches to give you extra room to tote home souvenirs. Bonus: it’s crafted from durable polyester canvas fabric that’s been weatherproofed to repel the elements.

Halfday Garment Duffel

For business travelers who make frequent short trips, the Halfday Garment Duffel can be a game changer if you’ve struggled to keep your jackets, pants, and gowns wrinkle-free in transit. It has an ingenious design wherein the walls of the integrated garment bag zip securely around end caps to create the main compartment of the duffel, giving you room for a Dopp kit, shoes, pajamas, and more. Bonus: it fits under most airline seats, so you’ll never have to worry about your suit getting crushed in the overhead bin or your dress getting wrinkled by baggage handlers.

Bric’s Bellagio Business 21″ Carry-On Spinner

A fully functional rolling trolley for business professionals that still looks effortlessly elegant, the Bellagio Business 21″ Carry-On Spinner from Bric’s hits the mark with the well-heeled. Though it has a fracture-resistant polycarbonate shell, it’s trimmed in contrasting vegetable-tanned leather, adding a refined quality. Its hard-sided front pocket holds your laptop and other small tech, and zips closed with the same water-repellent, self-sealing zipper as the main compartment for added protection.

RIMOWA Cabin Twist

An updated version of their legacy flagship case, RIMOWA’s Cabin Twist has become a clear favorite from the already iconic line. Just like their original luggage, the shell is made from corrugated anodized aluminum. But this model has been updated for the 21st century with proprietary cushioned-axel wheels and the Flex Divider system that adjusts to your needs. The twist comes in the styling: the handles, locks, and seal are all wrapped in contrast premium leather, and it comes with a matching luggage tag.

Samsonite Spinner Underseater with USB Port

Compact, durable, and efficient, the Spinner Underseater with USB Port is the perfect choice for travelers craving comfort and convenience during their flight. It fits perfectly under the seat in front of you and is brimming with practical details that place it at the top of its category.

Its four multi-directional spinner wheels glide effortlessly across all surfaces, ensuring smooth transitions from the airport to the boardroom. The integrated USB port is a standout feature, providing convenient access to personal portable chargers (not included), keeping your devices powered up and business-ready.

Inside the Spinner Underseater, there’s an impressive level of organization. It features interior mesh pockets and dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves, ensuring your tech essentials are secure and easily accessible. The bag’s exterior is just as thoughtfully designed, with a zippered pocket featuring an organizational panel for smaller items, and an additional pocket for quick access needs. The SmartSleeve on the back allows for seamless stacking on larger luggage pieces, making it an ideal companion for the savvy, tech-oriented traveler.

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The Best Business Carry On Luggage (Efficient + Durable!)

Best luggage for frequent travelers, best softside carry on for business travel: travelpro, best underseat carry on for business travel: samsonite, most lightweight business carry on luggage: tumi, best expandable business carry on suitcase: briggs & riley, best aluminum carry on for business travel: arlo skye.

• Best Business Tote Bag for Women: Lipault

Best Rolling Garment Bag: Travel Select

Best rolling briefcase: ciao.

• Best Wheeled Backpack Carry On: Amazon

Best Carry On Garment Bag: Zegur

Keep reading below for reviews on each suitcase!

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Business Luggage

So you’re in the market for some new business travel luggage.

Maybe you’re a seasoned business professional looking to upgrade an outdated piece, or maybe you’re a recent college graduate finally starting to realize slinging your L.L. Bean backpack around the conference room isn’t really doing you any favors with the ole CEO.

Either way, picking a new business travel piece can be difficult. Functionality is paramount, but it always helps to have a sleek and modern look too.

We’ve found some of the best luggage for business travel, so keep reading to learn more!

Quickly jump to brand:

• Briggs & Riley
• Travel Select

Keep reading, or pin this article to save it for later ⇟

Best Business Carry On Luggage

Dimensions: 23″ x 15.5″ x 10″

Weight: 7.9 lbs

Travelpro is one of the best rated luggage brands because they make high quality, durable carry on suitcases – so well made in fact, that airline crews use it!

Their  Travelpro Crew is basically the civilian version of the luggage that flight crews use and in person, you can easily see why. 

The bags are made from heavy duty nylon and have extra robust corner armor with skid guards and heavy duty wheel housings. The wheels are really sturdy and easily spin in a full 360 degrees !

Inside is probably my favorite feature.

These bags are made for total packing versatility . They include a zip-in garment organizer which is perfect for storing folded shirts, so that you can arrive to your business meeting fresh off the plane, wrinkle free.

BUT you can also customize the interior, as Travelpro designed the bags to interchange with various additional organizers (sold separately). I have the suit organizer which keeps blazers, work dresses and jackets wrinkle free.

There’s also a packing cube organizer to keep smaller items and accessories neat and tidy, and a laundry organizer which is great for storing damp items – say, dirty workout clothes or a wet bathing suit.. 

I love the dark navy color – it’s sleek and discreet enough to take on business flights with the team but has stylish leather trims that keep it unique and still feminine.

Other excellent features for frequent travelers include: a removable TSA compliant toiletries bag , a built-in USB port, a dedicated exterior power bank pocket and a quick-access padded laptop pocket.

Travelpro Carry On Luggage

Sold on Zappos , Travelpro & Amazon

See all color options and read more reviews here

Best of all, Travelpro offers a lifetime guarantee on all their luggage and if for any reason you change your mind (which once you see the bags, you won’t..) there’s a 100 day free trial !

Dimensions: 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 9.0″

Weight: 7.0 lbs

When it comes to the best carry on luggage for business travel, there are few luggage brands more storied or trusted than Samsonite .

Their underseat carry on spinner proves that Samsonite is an old dog that can be taught new tricks when it comes to modern luggage for business travel!

It’s super compact and easily fits under airplane seats, so you don’t have to hope and pray there’s enough overhead bin space.

The main compartment is spacious, but still has a padded laptop compartment . Then there’s a quick-stash exterior pocket for any items you need on hand.

Like any essential carry on suitcase, the Samsonite features multi-directional spinner wheels that roll upright, making it easier to navigate tight spaces in the airport without straining your arm or back. 

Add textured wear-and-tear protective guards and a water-resistant coating, and you’ve got a hardy suitcase that can withstand any business trip from New York to California!

Samsonite Luggage

Available on Samsonite , Bloomingdales , Macys & Amazon

See all colors and read more reviews here

Dimensions: 22″ x 14″ x 9″

Weight: 6.3 lbs

Tumi makes an incredibly lightweight hardcase that’s perfect for frequent fliers.

Their hardshell carry-on is super tough and durable, thanks to layers of specially woven ballistic polycarbonate . But at the same time, the outer shell can bend and flex, so it won’t crack or break!

Inside there are two packing compartments with a hanger bracket to neatly fold up your suits. The bag has 4 lightweight spinner wheels that glide super smoothly and an integrated TSA lock.

This is one bag that’s perfect for domestic or international business trips!

Tumi International Carry On Suitcase

Available on Zappos , Tumi , Amazon

Weight: 9.3 lbs

Briggs & Riley makes some of the best business luggage.

Their rolling carry on has 4 spinner wheels that glide effortless in 360 degrees. The bag is made from durable ballistic nylon , so it can withstand rain, sun, dirt and being thrown about!

The best part of the bag is its interior.

Briggs & Riley designed this carry-on spinner with a compression expansion system that squeezes down all your stuff to increase packing capacity.

There’s also mesh garment panels inside to minimize wrinkles, which is important for suits and business clothes!

For well made, high-quality luggage, get Briggs & Riley ! It’s like the Bentley of suitcases.

Briggs & Riley Carry On Spinner

Available on Zappos , Briggs & Riley , Nordstrom , Macys , Bloomingdales & Amazon

Dimensions: 23″ x 15″ x 9.6″

Weight: 10.5 lbs

Looking for an aluminum frame carry on?

You’ll love this sleek and sexy option from Arlo Skye .

It’s a roomy carry on with full grain leather handles , whisper quiet wheels and an anti-microbial interior lining.

There’s a removable charger to re-charge your phone quickly, and a theft-proof zipperless frame with TSA clasps.

Aluminum does show some nicks and dings over time, but it’s easier to keep pristine as a carry-on suitcase!

Arlo Skye Carry On Suitcase

Available on Arlo Skye

Best Tote Bag for Women: Lipault

Dimensions: 11.5″ x 17.3″ x 9.8″

Weight: 2.8 lbs

Lipault makes a fantastic personal bag for business women.

Their 24 hour bag is lightweight, simple and functional. It has a long removable shoulder strap and roomy main compartment that can easily fit a couple day’s worth of clothes and a pair of shoes or two.

There’s a smart sleeve in the back to slip it over your carry on suitcase and two exterior zipped pockets for quickly accessing your must-haves.

Finally there’s a laptop compartment so you can smoothly get through TSA!

And when not in use, the soft plush-y bag folds flat for easy storage. Best of all, the nylon is extremely hard wearing and durable, and will resist dust, dirt and scratches.

Lipault 24 Hour Tote Bag

Available on Zappos +  Amazon

Dimensions: 23″ x 22″ x 7″

Look, I get it.

Securing your work laptop, Blackberry, pitchbooks, passports, and boarding passes is important, but nothing is more important than finding a great business travel luggage piece that carries your suits.

I repeat: nothing.

Fortunately, the Travel Select Amsterdam Business Rolling Garment Bag is a specialized luggage for business travel piece that has us fashionistas covered.

The Travel Select is compact, lightweight, and can either roll on inline skate wheels or be carried over-the-shoulder with a detachable strap.

Plus, for you gents out there, the Travel Select is tailor made for business suits and features two smart pockets on the front – perfect for an extra tie or pair of cuff links!

Travel Select Rolling Garment Bag

Available on Amazon

Dimensions: 15″ x 14″ x 9″

Weight: 4.0 lbs

Perfect for those brutal business trips requiring two (or more) flights in one day, the Ciao Under the Seat Carry On is, befitting its namesake, compact.

The Ciao lends itself nicely to people who pack smart, as it comfortably holds a small briefcase, laptop, tablet, several notebooks, and a change of clothes or two.

In addition, its intelligent ‘pocket design’ maximizes space and fits under an airplane seat, so the Ciao can be considered your personal item while your larger carry-on suitcase is stored in the overhead bin!

Ciao Rolling Briefcase

Sold on Amazon

Best Wheeled Business Backpack Carry On: Amazon

Dimensions : 19.3″ x 13.4″ x 9.5″

Weight: 5.1 lbs

The most effective carry on luggage for business travel tends to be the most versatile, and nowhere is business travel luggage versatility on greater display than in the Little World Wheeled Business Backpack .

On the inside, the Little World features a thick sponge-lined sleeve that can carry laptops up to 19 inches. Additionally, there are back pockets and two mesh-lined pockets to secure items separately.

On the outside, there are three exterior zipper pockets to go along with a rolling handle and shoulder straps with a sponge-padded back for support when carrying as a backpack – this piece can do it all!

Amazon Wheeled Backpack

Dimensions: 23”x 22”x 4”

Weight: 3 lbs

The ZEGUR 40” Garment Bag is simply the mother of all carry on garment bags.

Its interior can carry up to three suits (or even more dresses) and has separate interior compartments for shoes, ties, or other items.

Smartly, the ZEGUR has buckled straps that both secure your garments and ensure they come out wrinkle free on the other end (anything saving me from trying to work a hotel ironing board is saintly in my book).

And, unlike some garment bags, the ZEGUR has an exterior travel document sleeve that allows you to easily grab your travel documents without having to rummage through all your gorgeous clothes!

This is one of the best travel bags for men or women!

Zegur Carry On Garment Bag

Shop luggage for business travel.

Must Have Accessories for Carry On Luggage

Laptop case.

I always bring my laptop on work trips so I can stay productive on flights. I’ve found a laptop sleeve   is crucial to protect the outside of my laptop from scratches.

This one holds up to 15″ laptops so I think it’s pretty useful! If you prefer a laptop sleeve with a handle strap, this laptop case is essentially the same thing but more portable. It comes in 4 colors so you can jazz it up.

For mac book users, my friends swear by this laptop case , which is multi-functional enough to work for iPad pros and chrome books as well as spill proof. It comes in a wide range of sizes and colors to suit whatever device you’re trying to protect!

Packing Cubes

Once you get a packing cube set , you’ll never go back to free range luggage.

Packing cubes help maximize space inside your luggage by neatly organizing clothing and separating your dirty worn clothes from freshly laundered ones.

Amazon   carries a wide range of packing cube sets and brands

  Read More     in my travel packing checklist series:

Best Travel Luggage

The Best Carry on Luggage for 2021

The Best Packing Cubes for a Perfectly Organized Bag

The Best Lightweight Luggage for Overpackers

The Best Hard Luggage Sets  for Stylish Travelers

The Best Underseat Luggage  for Minimalists

The Best Carry On Bags for Men - Rugged + Durable!

Business Travel

The Essential Business Packing List

The Best Business Travel Luggage

The Best Laptop Cases for Working Women

The Best Laptop Bags for Men

Packing Hacks

The Best Travel Wallets for All Your Vacation Essentials

The Best Jewelry Cases Never Untangle a Necklace Again!

The Best Toiletry Bags to Clean Up Quick

Travel Packing Lists

The Best Travel Jackets for All Types of Weather

The Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Weekend Trip

The Best Travel Backpacks to Hold Everything You Need

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The 10 best business travel backpacks for style and comfort

I recently ran into a pretty big issue on a work trip.

During the middle of a flight, my laptop was running out of charge, so I opened the overhead bin and pulled down my Away backpack, which had a charger inside the main pocket.

As I went to open the pocket, I couldn't get the zipper to pull. No matter how hard I tried, the zipper was stuck.

I eventually pried the pocket open enough, and when I landed back home, my local zipper-repair shop told me that I had one of two options: buy a brand-new backpack or pay $80 to install a new zipper track (that wouldn't even match the original one).

Away's lifetime warranty excludes backpacks (technically called "soft goods"), so I figured it was time to invest in a new bag. I wanted something that would be durable, stylish and spacious — but not too unwieldy.

I took to Instagram to ask for recommendations, and I got an overwhelming number of suggestions. I eventually distilled the list down to some top picks. And just in case you might also be in the market for a new travel backpack that works for business trips or hauling laptops around, I thought I'd share the tips, suggestions and research I used to make my decision.

Without further ado, here are the best business travel backpacks that maximize form and function.

Related: Review of the Away Larger Carry-On

Tumi Navigation Backpack

In my informal social media poll, no brand received as much praise as Tumi . That's not necessarily surprising, as this travel gear brand has been a fan favorite for frequent flyers for many years. Though Tumi makes a handful of durable bags, the Navigation Backpack excels for a wide range of travel needs.

There's a separate padded laptop compartment (that can fit even the largest MacBooks), as well as a main storage area and plenty of other smaller pockets.

But my favorite feature is the bag's zip expansion capability, which will certainly come in handy if you pick up some souvenirs or other swag during your trip.

The Navigation Backpack comes in five colors, giving you plenty of choices to match your personal travel style.

Tumi also offers two more contenders for the best business travel backpack: the slightly larger Alpha Bravo Search (which also came highly recommended in my Instagram poll) and the Bradner Backpack — the brand's most stylish one yet in my book.

Buy: From $525

Aer Pro Pack 20L

As far as business-travel backpacks go, Aer's is certainly quite stylish. It comes in three colors (black, navy and olive), and it's made of sustainable materials without compromising on durability. A separate laptop compartment safeguards your most precious technology, while the main compartment is large enough for all your chargers and other travel accessories.

The standout feature is that the main compartment features a 180-degree flat-open zipper system, which gives you unobstructed access to all of your belongings.

Plus, there's even a hidden pocket to store an AirTag or other smart device tracker so that you can locate your bag even if it's stolen or if you misplace it.

Buy: From $179

Rimowa Flap Backpack Large

If you're looking to make a statement, Rimowa's travel bags are the way to go.

This luxury bag manufacturer has entered the travel backpack space with its new Italian-made large canvas Flap Backpack, which even sports the iconic groove design on the outside.

The inside features a padded laptop sleeve and a large drawstring compartment to fit all of your travel essentials. With a flap-top enclosure secured by a magnetic buckle (that's emblazoned with the Rimowa logo), there's no doubt this is a very stylish, spacious and durable bag.

The one big downside? It is Rimowa and, as a result, doesn't come cheap. But it's also the bag that'll probably make the strongest first impression once you enter the boardroom.

Buy: From $1,700

Samsonite Novex Laptop Backpack

No worries if you are shopping for a travel backpack on a more down-to-earth budget, as the Samsonite best-seller has a lot going for it, starting with the price. At just $74.99 (on a 25% off sale at the moment), it's one of the most affordable bags in this guide.

Yet, the Novex Laptop Backpack doesn't compromise on the basics. The separate laptop and tablet pocket features a special webbing system that provides extra durability in case you drop the backpack. Plus, thanks to the special supportive lining on the top front pocket, you won't have to worry about misplacing your headphones, glasses or phones.

The main storage compartment has room for all the essentials, though you may not find it large enough for a full change of clothes or a pair of shoes.

While this backpack is a solid option and is a great deal considering the price, it doesn't feature all the bells and whistles you'd find with some of its competitors.

Buy: From $74.99

Nomatic 20L Backpack

Though you may have never heard of Nomatic before, this brand receives rave reviews from its loyalists. The company's best-seller backpack comes in two sizes, 14 liters and 20 liters, both of which are expandable by nearly 20%.

The flat rectangular design may be controversial at first glance, but at least you can't complain about finding space for all of your gizmos. The bag has a staggering 24 unique storage compartments that range from enclosed pockets to mesh nets, and it's a great bag for those who like to stay extremely organized when they're on the road.

Plus, with a water-resistant coating on the outside, this might just be one of the most durable travel backpacks out there.

Buy: From $279.99

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

The Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack has space for everything and then some. The padded rear pocket is the perfect spot for a laptop, and I love that you don't need to dig through your bag just to find your computer.

The main compartment is quite spacious, and you can even expand this space by nearly three liters, giving you more room for your belongings. Plus, the front pocket has a dedicated organizer with multiple pockets, so you'll never forget where you put your passport, charger and cables.

This may be one of the bigger bags in this guide, but you'd never know it just from looking at it. (You could opt for the smaller Timbuk2 Q Laptop Backpack if you want something smaller.)

If there's one downside, it's the style — the bag isn't nearly as eye-catching as some of the others.

Buy: From $209

Incase A.R.C. Daypack

Apple aficionados will no doubt be familiar with Incase, a popular brand of cases and protection solutions for iPhones, iPads and Macs.

That said, Incase's A.R.C. Daypack could be a great backpack option, even if you don't tote around a MacBook or iOS device. Much like an Apple product, the backpack's design is minimalist, yet highly functional.

The laptop pocket is big enough for a 16-inch computer, and it's lined in faux fur for additional protection. On top of that, the travel tech compartment has RFID-blocking technology, preventing thieves from stealing your digital info.

A water- and stain-resistant coating, two dedicated water bottle holders and a pass-through system for rollaboard bags make this the ideal bag for anyone going from the gym to the office to the airport. If you need something bigger, Incase also makes a larger A.R.C. travel pack.

But perhaps just as importantly, both bags are made from a sustainable mixture of recycled polyester, giving them their A.R.C, or "a responsible carry," acronym.

Buy: From $127.18

Ogio Renegade RSS Laptop Backpack

If you're looking for the bag with the most pockets, this might just be the one for you.

Ogio's flagship backpack has dedicated space for everything (laptop and iPad included) and then some. A phone pocket, two zippered side pockets, five main pockets — you might just get lost looking around for your gear.

No matter how much you stuff this nearly 30-liter backpack, you shouldn't have much of a problem carrying it around. I love the supportive padded back panel and shoulder straps, which make it easy to lug it around the airport or corporate campus.

Just note that the bag isn't necessarily the most stylish, nor does it feature a strap to store it on the handle of your rollaboard bag.

Buy: From $160

Briggs & Riley Traveler Backpack

At first glance, your eyes might be caught by this Briggs & Riley backpack. With its boxy corners and flat pockets, it definitely makes a statement.

Then, once you start opening the different pockets, you'll likely be impressed by how much you can fit inside, especially thanks to the 180-degree lie-flat opening that allows unfettered access to every nook and cranny.

The tablet laptop and tablet sleeve are in the same area as the main packing compartment, but it's separated by a zippered inner pocket to keep your clothes all by themselves.

Another nifty feature includes a so-called "PowerPocket" that fits an external battery pack and keeps a charging cable within easy reach for a quick boost of juice while you're on the go.

Style, form and function — this backpack is a winner, and while it isn't the cheapest in the line-up, it also doesn't come with the Tumi or Rimowa price tag.

Buy: From $329

Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus

Sometimes, the simplest solution is actually the best. If you're the type of person who ascribes to the "less is more" philosophy, then Bellroy's Classic Backpack Plus is probably your best bet.

You won't find any complicated zippers or expandable compartments inside, but this bag packs a mighty style punch in a versatile package.

There are two main compartments in the backpack — one for your laptop and another for the rest of your belongings. The front of the bag features a small zip pocket for storing small essentials, and that's basically it. But don't be fooled; the bag sports a 24-liter capacity, so you'll find plenty of room for your gear.

If simplicity is what you're after, then you can't go wrong with Bellroy's flagship backpack.

Buy: From $189

Bottom line

Now that my Away Backpack is really on its last breath, I find myself facing decision anxiety.

There are 10 great choices for a replacement, and I'm torn as to which one to use going forward. I'm personally a big fan of the Rimowa design, but that $1,700 splurge might need to wait until I write my holiday wishlist.

Until then, I'm currently leaning toward a Tumi backpack. After all, there must've been a reason that it was the most-loved business travel backpack in my research.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On Away Carry-On Read more

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

Best Bag for a Lifetime Briggs & Riley Baseline CX Read more

Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

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Best Carry-On for Most People

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Bag for a Lifetime

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright.

The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

Mark Andrews

Kathy Gilsinan

Adrienne So

Best Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon with bombproof YKK zippers and has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both and I would only fly with if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Best Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: If you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $160 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $345 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 keep everything inside your bags organized by allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

Best Business Travel Luggage & Carry-on Bags in 2024

by Albert Varkki updated 03-23-2024

Table Of Contents

An experienced business traveler’s luggage can make or break their trip.

Travelers commonly carry it with them for up to hundreds of miles annually.

Some people prefer carrying carry-on luggage through the airport to avoid wasting time at the check-in counter and later at the baggage carousel.

In this post, we'll outline the best business travel luggage for 2024.

Want a quick breakdown? Here are our top picks:

• Best Rolling Carry-on Bag: Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag (click to view) - a stylish rolling carry-on bag made from the highest quality full grain leather, handmade in Italy.
• Best Professional Garment Bag: Grand Leather Garment Bag (click to view) - a stylish and professional travel bag with a built in garment bag for your suit. Full grain leather, detachable shoulder strap.
• Best Leather Weekend Bag: Weekender (click to view) - a leather weekender that's both professional and practical, with a dedicated laptop compartment and detachable shoulder strap. Made from high quality full grain leather.

Best Business Travel Luggage for 2024

Here we outline our top picks for business travel luggage by type and style:

Voyager Leather Carry-on Bag with Wheels

Best for the stylish and practical businessman on short business trips, the Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag with Wheels is a must-have.

Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag Product Highlights:

Watch the Voyager product video below:

Browse more images of the Voyager:

Albert says:

Click To Show More Images & Detailed Review

Click To Hide Extra Details

Grand Leather Garment Bag

Best for the professional businessman on short business trips, keeping suits and shirts wrinkle-free in the Grand Leather Garment Bag.

Watch the Grand product video below:

Browse more images of the Grand:

Weekender Men's Leather Weekend Bag

Best for a rugged weekend escape with the boys, the Weekender leather bag exudes masculine charm and durability.

Weekender Product Highlights:

Watch the Weekender product video below:

Browse more images of the Weekender:

City Leather Laptop Bag

Best for a businessman on short city trips, the Business City Leather Laptop Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.

City Laptop Bag Product Highlights:

Watch the City product video below:

Browse more images of the City:

10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag

Best for the fashionable executive traveling for business, the 10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.

10X Laptop Travel Bag Product Highlights:

Watch the 10X product video below:

Browse more images of the 10X:

City Large Leather Laptop Bag

Best for the stylish businessman on a city break, the City Large Leather Laptop Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.

Watch the City Large product video below:

Browse more images of the City Large:

No.1 Men's Leather Briefcase

Best for the competent businessman on business trips, the No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase exudes confidence and sophistication.

No.1 Briefcase Product Highlights:

Watch the No.1 product video below:

Browse more images of the No.1:

How to Choose Business Luggage

We advise concentrating on the following characteristics when selecting the best luggage for business travel:

Cost and Quality

Any time you buy luggage, you should think of it as an investment. You want a sturdy, well-made item. Business travel bags are no exception. And investing in a fashionable piece that looks good on your travels is actually a great idea.

No matter how much you’re into exciting patterns and vibrant colors, ensure business suitcases and bags have more subdued tones and simple designs. Three colors that are constantly in style are black, gray, and navy.

Flexibility

Hinging on how much or little you pack, you might need a bag that you can easily wheel around or carry by a shoulder strap when you’re on business trips. What do you prefer?

Simple Organization

Having quick access to your necessities when traveling for business is crucial, including your laptop, tablet, toiletries, and documents. Look for business travel bags with a laptop compartment and lots of pockets, so you can keep your essentials close at hand.

Hard or Soft Shell Suitcases?

This is always a difficult choice. For flight travel, I typically advocate hard-shell suitcases. Mind you, my recommendation mainly refers to checked baggage. Since we are simply considering carry-on luggage, we don’t need to consider whether the bag will be jostled around.

Generally speaking, soft-side suitcases are more suitable for organizing. Exterior compartments are rather uncommon in hard shell suitcases. Additionally, they offer a single packing compartment, extensible capacity, and numerous pockets both inside and outside. However, they have a shorter service life than hard sides.

Compared to softshell suitcases, hard shell-baggage is more durable, especially if you choose a bag with a polycarbonate shell. That material is solid and lightweight and bends when it’s hit. Hard sides, on the other hand, are typically not the greatest choice for those who enjoy being organized while traveling.

• Leather Holdalls
• Best Leather Backpack
• Business Traveler Bags
• Best Travel Bags
• Men's Leather Travel Bags
• Best Travel Toiletry Bag
• Best Mens Travel Bag

Hard shells hardly ever come with an external compartment and scarcely have more than two or three pockets inside. Therefore, a hard-side suitcase is probably not the best choice if you prefer to have specific items close at hand while traveling. However, if strength and durability are your priorities, this is unquestionably the best option.

Are suit bags allowed as carry-ons?

You can bring soft-sided garment bags as carry-ons if they’re maximum 51 inches/130 cm (length + width + height) in size. Musical instruments must fit in the overhead compartment or beneath the seat in front of you to be allowed as carry-ons.

• Under Seat Travel Bags

We hope you enjoyed our best business travel luggage post.

If you ever need any help with anything to do with travel, bags or fashion, feel free to contact the Von Baer team, at [email protected].

Browse our other travel pages here.

Author: Albert Varkki

Albert Varkki is the co-founder of Von Baer. He understands leather products as a consumer, supplier, and a manufacturer, helping you with the inside knowledge you need, to choose the perfect leather product for you.

We always aim to have the highest editorial standards, and only publish accurate information on our website.

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Best Business Suitcases and Luggage That’s Efficient and Easy to Use

Best Suitcases , Business

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If you travel for business, you have different packing strategies than if you’re on vacation. It starts with the right suitcase. These picks for the best luggage for business travelers will keep you organized and streamlined!

Best Business Suitcase and Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Table of contents.

When traveling for business, choosing the right piece of luggage comes down to efficiency. You need space for all of your items at close reach. You need to easily navigate to, from, and through airports and hotels. Of course, you need to keep your clothing wrinkle-free for your meetings.

We’ve rounded up the best business travel luggage, that includes suitcases, bags, backpacks, and more, all with efficiency in mind. Take a look at these top picks!

Best Carry On Luggage for Business Travel

Shop: Amazon

Best Travel Luggage for Business Travel: Delsey Helium Aero 19”

The Aero business travel bag with wheels offers a large capacity with maximum comfort. The large easy access front compartment with an integrated padded sleeve fits up to a 15-inch laptop, while two zippered mesh pockets are perfect for accessories, toiletries, or any last-minute items such as tickets, a passport, or books.

Most Popular Business Traveller Luggage : Travelpro Platinum Elite 20”

Travelpro’s business travel luggage carry on is full of functionality, with USB ports to charge on the go and a padded laptop sleeve on the front that fits laptops up to 15.6”. Users love the easy maneuverability and ultra-strong hard shell to protect their items inside.

Best Luggage for Business Travel on a Budget: Coolife

This sleek business suitcase with laptop compartment from Coolife will keep you super organized. The front pocket will safely store your laptop (up to 13.3”) and has plenty of pockets for storing documents, boarding passes, and other essentials. The spacious interior allows for efficient packing, too!

Shop: Amazon | Travelpro

Best Softside Carry-On Suitcase for Business : Travelpro Maxlite 5

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 business travel luggage carry on is a major favorite with readers, and business travelers love it for its quality, lightweight, excellent packing capacity, and polished look. The many pockets and compartments make it easy to store your electronics, chargers, and other business travel necessities.

Find out why readers love the Travelpro Maxlite 5 expandable spinner suitcase so much!

Shop: Amazon | Samsonite

Best Hardside Carry On for Business Travel : Samsonite Freeform

The Freeform business suitcase with wheels has a lightweight yet durable shell and TSA locks to keep your belongings as safe as can be. A firm handle and double-spinner wheels make for a smooth and easy ride. The interior is roomy, and the compression straps will keep your business attire neatly pressed! 

Most Versatile Business Travel Luggage : Level8 Grace

There’s a place for everything in this Level8 Grace business suitcase on wheels ! This carry on is solidly built, and its anti-scratch surface will keep it looking nice. It comes equipped with a front laptop compartment for laptops up to 15.5”, while cross straps, dividers, and an overall spacious interior make for seamless packing!

Travelpro Platinum Elite 20″ Expandable Business Plus Carry On Spinner

Most Popular Luggage for Business: Travelpro Platinum Elite

Travelpro is one of the most popular luggage brands among TFG readers, and the Platinum Elite collection is by far the most recommended, specifically this classy  20” Business Plus carry on . It’s made from high-density materials that resist water, stains, and abrasions, so it’ll hold up beautifully to the wear and tear of travel. Looks aside, this suitcase features tons of interior and exterior organization, ultra-smooth and sturdy wheels, and chic leather trim.

It weighs 8.2 lbs and its dimensions are 20″ x 14″ x 9”, making it a great companion for both domestic and internal travel.

Best Under Seat Business Suitcase With Wheels

Best Wheeled Under Seat Bag for Business Travelers: Delsey Paris Chatelet

This chic Delsey overnight business travel bag will store all you need for a quick trip, including your laptop or tablet in the protective inner sleeve. Not only is the construction elegant, but it’s super durable and built to last. As a bonus, it comes with a removable pouch for accessories.

Best Business Travel Luggage for  Under Seat Bag : Samsonite

The aptly named Samsonite Mobile Office under seat bag is truly a business traveler’s dream! It features a compartment for clothing with sections to keep everything organized, a laptop compartment that fits laptops up to 15.6” as well as chargers, portfolios, or other work essentials, and an outer compartment for easy-to-reach essentials. It even has USB ports!

Here are the suitcase recommendations from top travel experts and why they love them!

Shop: Amazon | Walmart | Target

Best Two Wheel Suitcase for Business Travelers: Baggalini 

Super cute and full of function, this Baggallini smart business suitcase offers plenty of packing space and handy pockets to keep things organized. It’s made of strong, water-resistant nylon, has a laptop sleeve for 13” laptops, and has on-the-go charging capabilities, too!

Best Carry-on Luggage with Laptop Compartment

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Tumi

Best Laptop Backpack for Business Travelers: Tumi Voyageur

We love Tumi luggage, so it’s not surprising that they also make an amazing laptop backpack that’s perfect for business travel. Spacious enough for your daily essentials, plus your laptop and a change of clothes, the Tumi Voyageur Carson laptop bag offers the perfect combination of practicality and chic. 

It’s lightweight and features a water-resistant water bottle pocket, as well as a quick-access phone pocket, making this the best carry-on business luggage when you’re on the go.

Best Laptop Tote for Business Travelers: Delsey Chatelet 

If you find backpacks too casual or prefer a handbag style, we love the Delsey Chatelet Soft Air shoulder bag . This tote is spacious enough to carry your laptop among your other essentials, thanks to the zippered exterior pocket, two interior pockets, a removable pouch for small accessories, and two padded sleeves for a laptop and tablet.

Shop: Nomad Lane

Best Overnight Business Travel Bag : Nomad Lane Bento 

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag is both stylish, practical and manages to hold a ton of stuff while being lightweight and easy to carry . It opens like a suitcase for easy packing, and inside you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve for 16” laptops.  The trolley sleeve, make its’ an ideal personal item for plane travel, too!

Is the Nomad Lane Bento Bag the Best Travel Companion? Checkout our review!

Best Luggage for Business Travel Suits and Clothing

Best Garment Suitcase for Business Travelers: Travelpro Maxlite 5

Keep your business clothes wrinkle-free with Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 garment suitcase , which is some of the best carry on luggage for business travel suits . Users say their clothes come out of this bag looking perfect every time and love the comfortable handle, smooth wheels, and durable design. The fabric is water repellant and stain resistant, so everything inside will be safe and sound!

Best Four Wheel Garment Bag: Samsonite Underseater

This Samsonite underseat suitcase makes the perfect business trip companion, with space to keep your clothes fresh and free of wrinkles, as well as a padded laptop compartment for 13.3” laptops. Not only that, but it has a USB port, large side pockets, and a front pocket with pen holders and card slots. 

Best Luggage for Business Travel Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”425″ class=”center-table-align”]

Top Business Luggage Features

When choosing the best luggage for business travel, we recommend focusing on these features:

Flexibility

When traveling for business — depending on how heavy or light of a packer you are — you may want the flexibility of a bag that can be easily wheeled around or carried by a shoulder strap. Which is your preference?

Price and Quality

Purchasing luggage under any circumstance should be considered an investment. You want something durable and well-made. Business luggage is no different. In fact, you’ll want to invest in something stylish that presents a great image while traveling.

Sleek Style

As much as we may love fun patterns or bright colors, keep business suitcases and bags in more subtle tones and minimal patterns. Grey, black, and navy are always winners that will never go out of style.

Easy Organization

When traveling for business, it’s important to be able to easily access your essentials, such as your laptop, tablet, toiletries , or documents. When choosing business travel bags, look for ones with a laptop compartment and multiple pockets so you can keep your necessities easily accessible.

Business Travel Essentials

Along with suitcases and travel bags, you’ll want a few travel essentials to help you stay organized, your electronics charged, and your business clothing wrinkle-free and ready to wear.

NEWVANGA Universal All in One Travel Adapter

International Travel Adapter

A travel adapter is essential for business travel, as you’ll likely have multiple devices to charge. If you’re looking for the best international travel adapter, the NEWVANGA International Travel Adapter is voted by readers as the best. you can use it in over 150+ countries. 

Not sure if you need a travel adapter or voltage converter? Read our guide !

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes

When you’re ready to travel with your newly purchased items, start with packing cubes; they will seriously change the way you pack! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes , with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. See more in the video below.

Learn our packing hacks with packing cubes in this video !

We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped many women travel carry-on only!

PurSteam 1300-Watt Steamer

Garment Steamer

While most hotels have irons, delicate fabrics are best ironed using a garment steamer. Our favorite garment steamer is this one. You can iron about one shirt per use. As a bonus, if you only steam the occasional clothing item, you can use this at home, too. It’s cheaper and more convenient than a full-size steamer!

We round up the best travel irons !

Downy Wrinkle Releaser

Wrinkle Release Spray

A wrinkle release spray is extremely convenient to carry with you to keep your clothes wrinkle-free when traveling and looking fresh. If you don’t want to fuss with an iron, keep a travel-sized version of the Downy Wrinkle Releaser in your purse or carry-on luggage for ease of use.

What do you suggest is the best luggage for business travel? Share in the comments below?

For more information on packing for business travel, please read:

• Best Hardside Suitcases
• Best Softside Suitcases 
• Best Laptop Bags for Women Travelers On the Go
• Best Under Seat Luggage and How to Pack with Minimal Space

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We hope you learned about the best luggage for business travel. Please share on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest! Thank you for reading!

Having choices is always important. With TFG’s guidance, we selected Away hard shell luggage for our international travel. Thanks Alex and team for all the recommendations.

I love my Tumi backpack!

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The 12 Best Laptop Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Whether you're a business traveler or a student, these backpacks, duffel bags, and carry-ons will protect your laptop while on the go.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

A laptop is often the priciest tech investment travelers will pack for their journeys. And, with the rise of digital nomadism and working vacations, more and more travelers face the same dilemma: how to protect their laptops while on the road. This is where a durable, padded laptop bag comes in handy.

Traveling with a laptop requires a well-made, durable, and padded bag to keep it safe and secure. After testing hundreds of messenger bags , weekenders , backpacks , duffel bags , and carry-ons , we selected the best laptop bags for commuting and traveling. But we didn't stop there. After our initial tests, we continued to use the bags for at least six months to ensure durability and consistently high performance under different circumstances and settings.

Our list features laptop bags for every type of traveler and trip — from your daily commute to the office or school to overnight business trips or long-haul flights.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

It has a lot of storage space.

It only comes in black and gray.

This may look like a small backpack, but we actually found it to be more like Mary Poppins' magic bag as the capacity just keeps on going when we put it to the test. The padded tech sleeve can fit a 15.6-inch laptop and a tablet (there are two separate slots), while the main compartment has plenty of room for shoes, toiletries, and a change of clothes (which also makes this a great carry-on or overnight bag option). Another feature we love is the excellent organization: there are two water bottle pockets, a battery slot that enables you to charge your devices on the go, a key leash, and plenty more small pockets for all the essentials. 

This backpack also aced our durability tests. It’s made from recycled plastic bottles, and the exterior is treated with an anti-microbial coating that’s easy to clean with wipes to keep it looking new. Business and leisure travelers will get plenty of mileage out of this sleek, sturdy Solo backpack.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 1.43 pounds | Recycled PET Polyester | Fits 15.6 inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Weekender

Away everywhere bag.

This weekender bag is extra spacious thanks to its clamshell-style opening.

The shoulder straps are not padded and may dig into your shoulder if the bag is packed full.

This may be a weekender, but we found it was able to fit more than just a couple days worth of clothing and accessories during our tests. It’s also designed like a suitcase with a clamshell-style opening, so packing and accessing your belongings is super convenient. Keep your laptop and an additional tech device in the padded pocket with a magnetic opening, and stow your wallet or passport holder in the small outer pocket secured with a strap. There are also plenty more pockets and compartments inside, so your belongings will not end up in a messy pile. While this Away weekender does come with a shoulder strap, it’s not padded, and carrying the bag by the handles can get a little uncomfortable after a while. But this is why the trolley strap is handy — just slip the backpack right over your carry-on’s telescoping handle instead.

The Details: 20.9 x 11.8 x 9.4 inches | 3.8 pounds | Nylon, leather | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Carry-on

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

You can detach the laptop sleeve from the suitcase if you want to store the larger bag in an overhead bin (or if you are forced to check it at the gate).

This carry-on is larger than other options on this list.

Most carry-on suitcases do not have a dedicated laptop sleeve, and we love that this one has a removable one that directly attaches to the suitcase via magnets and clips. Once you do a couple of practice runs on how to correctly do that (there is an audible click when it's in place), it's smooth sailing from then on. The mechanism seemed to work really well in holding the sleeve in place. We only saw it fly off the shell after we threw the carry-on several times off a counter in our testing lab.

We were impressed with the suitcase’s internal compression panels because the carry-on itself is pretty sleek and compact (it would easily fit in the overhead bin), but that didn't result in any less storage space. Since the laptop sleeve is located on the front of the bag, it doesn’t intervene with any of your interior packing space. It also features a sleeve within the laptop case, so you are left with extra space for other items like magazines or documents.

The Details: 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches | 9.5 pounds | Polycarbonate | Fits up to 16-inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Compact Carry-on

Tumi oxford compact carry-on.

It is an excellent under-the-seat option if you're looking for a smaller wheeled carry-on.

The media pockets may be difficult to zip if the bag is too full.

Tumi's mini carry-on is a good choice for travelers heading for a quick business trip who want to travel light and upgrade to a premium option. The bag is designed to fit under the seat in front of you and can fit a couple of days’ worth of clothing, including a laptop and a travel tablet. The designated media pocket is at the front of the bag, making it very convenient to access. We did find the laptop sleeve was difficult to zip when the bag was packed with a heavier jacket (and the case needed to be squished under the seat), but if you don't overpack it, it works without a glitch. In terms of construction and maneuverability, this Tumi carry-on moved flawlessly on both four and two wheels with little-to-no resistance. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6.6 pounds | Nylon

Best Personal Item

Mz wallace nik.

The organizational features and multiple storage compartments are a highlight so you can make the most out of this personal item.

The shoulder strap has no padding.

This stylish bag's storage system blew us away: from the laptop pocket with a snap closure to the many smaller compartments and pockets, this bag really helps you stay organized while maximizing the available packing space. You can easily fit a two- or four-day worth of essentials in it and still be able to carry it around with ease. The reason? The quilted material is lightweight and provides cushioning for the items inside, ensuring their protection and your comfort on the go. You can also fit it underneath an airplane set, making this your personal item bag to supplement a carry-on or checked suitcase.

The extra long handles allow you to carry it on your shoulder, but there's also a removable shoulder strap and a back strap that helps you attach it to a suitcase. This bag is a multitasker that deserves a spot in your luggage collection, but most importantly, it is so well-made and durable that it's definitely worth the investment. 

The Details: 17 x 7 x 12 inches | 2.1 pounds | REC Oxford | Fits up to 16-inch laptop

Best Backpack

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

This backpack allows you to go hands-free, with many pockets and slots for quick-access to your belongings.

The material is not very breathable and may feel hot on your back. 

When it comes to padding, this backpack is in a league of its own. We found the cushioned straps and back panel made it the most comfortable backpack we have ever carried. Additionally, the padding provides extra protection for your laptop or tablet. This bag has a tapered design on top, which some may find challenging to pack, but the sides have fabric expanders to help with that. 

The exterior is sleek and minimalist, with leather accents that elevate its look. Inside, there are plenty of pockets to keep travelers organized, including a designated media pocket that can easily fit a 17-inch laptop. But we’re perhaps most impressed with the bag’s sustainability: it’s made from recycled polyester, including the lining.

The Details: 11.8 x 16.5 x 5.5 inches | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester | Fits up to 17-inch laptop

Best Waterproof

Rains texel tech bag.

It's exceptionally lightweight and waterproof, which makes it the perfect commute bag.

The straps don't have padding, and the zippers don't always run smoothly.

If you're looking for a sturdy commute bag to go to work or school, this one will not disappoint. Though the waterproof zippers were a bit bulky and needed a tug from time to time to run smoothly, that’s a small price to pay to ensure that all of your belongings stay dry if you get caught in the rain. And, trust us, they will. During our long-term testing period, one of our team members brought this bag on multiple commutes through New York City in the rain, and it kept her laptop perfectly dry. The water just beads right off without soaking the fabric at all.

This bag was clearly designed to help travelers stay organized. Its outer pockets and compartments have waterproof zippers for protection and ease of use, in addition to multiple interior pockets and a spacious capacity. There isn't any padding on the adjustable shoulder strap, so it does get a little uncomfortable if you’re carrying a full bag long distances, but the strap is adjustable, and there are shorter carrying handles with a wrap if you choose to carry it by hand.

The Details: 11.8 x 15 x 3.5 inches | 2.09 pounds | Polyester with polyurethane coating | Fits up to 15-inch laptop | Waterproof

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Duffel

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Dagne Dover

The duffel bag has several accessories that help organize your belongings.

The fabric may show stains and spills easily.

We found this to be the ultimate travel duffel that also happens to be the perfect bag to store your laptop as it has a roomy media compartment that closes with a Velcro strap so it stays flat when not in use. This style comes in five sizes, but only the medium, large, and extra large can fit a laptop. The top zipper opens wide so packing is a breeze, and inside are multiple pockets for smaller items. The great thing about this duffel is it has an additional shoe zip bag, a mesh pouch for cables and earbuds, and a detachable key leash to help you stay organized.

You can also attach the duffel to wheeled luggage thanks to a trolley sleeve on its backside. The neoprene material is durable and held up very well during our wear and tear tests. However, neoprene is known to show creases with time. 

The Details: 14.5 x 7.5 x 9 inches | 2.08 pounds | Neoprene | Fits a 13-inch laptop in a medium

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Bandolier Tote Bag

This tote is elegant, lightweight, and perfect for everyday use.

The bag has an open top rather than a zipper.

While this chic leather tote is the ideal laptop bag for travel, it is also a great commuter bag. Its pebbled leather holds up excellently to daily use, and its timeless silhouette makes it perfect for the office, subway, or restaurant. The size is also convenient for frequent use, as it can hold a water bottle or cup, notepads, cosmetics, sunglasses, and a jacket. The laptop sleeve accommodates devices up to 15 inches long and closes with a snap. We would love a secure top closure, especially if using this bag as a personal item, since the bag features an open top. However, if easy and quick access to your belongings is a priority day to day, then this is definitely the right tote for you. The handles are long enough to carry it as either a shoulder bag or a handbag for an added touch of versatility.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Best Briefcase

Briggs & riley medium expandable briefcase.

Briggs & Riley

It has a sturdy, durable construction and expandable design that would be useful for business trips.

The depth is larger than standard bags.

This briefcase will be a hit with business travelers and those looking for superior organization. While the bag itself is compact in height and width, the expandable zippers allow you to fit more if needed without making it uncomfortable to carry. We packed everything on our list except a jacket, which fit a little awkwardly. However, this bag has so many pockets (at times more than we knew what to do with) that during our drop test, all of the items were kept from being displaced or damaged because there was a slot for everything. The 15.6-inch padded laptop compartment also did its job exceptionally well.

The classic black design (there is some pop of color on the inside) also features a trolley pass-through sleeve to carry on top of a suitcase and a duo of sleek handles with leather accents. Last but not least, the sturdy fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles, so you can also feel good that your purchase is keeping trash out of landfills.

The Details: 15.75 x 11 x 6 inches | 2.55 pounds | Recycled poly/nylon ballistic | Fits up to 15.6-inch laptop

Best Budget

Lands' end all purpose messenger bag.

It's a compact bag that is comfortable to carry while being the most affordable option on this list.

The material is thin and there's no padding.

This messenger may come with a low price tag, but that doesn't mean you'll be compromising on quality, storage potential, or features. Quite on the contrary. The polyester material and the easily adjustable padded shoulder strap make it super lightweight and easy to carry, even when full. The waterproof coating held up really well during our tests, however, two of the exterior pockets have snap closures and don't close all the way, so we would avoid carrying anything of value there (or anything you wouldn't want to get soaked in a downpour). 

We also noticed that the canvas material, though thin, performed exceptionally well during drop and spray tests (the laptop compartment is padded), and the messenger still looks like new months after we first tested it — and the same is true for the hardware. Lastly, while the bag is only available in blue, it is certainly worth considering if you're in need of a well-made, budget-friendly commute bag.

The Details: 14.75 x 11 x 5.5 inches | Polyester | Fits up to 14-inch laptop | Waterproof

Best Organization

Quince revive nylon large tote.

It's an excellent all-season option to keep you organized on the road.

While it has a magnetic top closure, it doesn’t zip closed.

Thanks to a combination of smart storage organization and a spacious interior, we found this carry-all was a total dream when it comes to packing. With so many pockets, dividers, and compartments, it's easy to see and access keys, lip balm, shoes, travel documents, and your laptop, for which there’s a padded pocket with a Velcro closure.

This Quince bag is also quite versatile — travelers can easily use it as an everyday bag, a weekender, or even a diaper bag (the nylon fabric is super easy to clean). The latest, updated version of the tote has a magnetic closure, providing a little extra security for your belongings.

The Details: 13 x 17 x 5 inches | 1.76 pounds | Nylon | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

For this article, our Travel + Leisure team sorted through testing results from multiple lab and real-world tests for messenger bags, weekenders, duffels, backpacks, carry-on suitcases, and more — specifically looking for bags with designated laptop pockets or pouches. Each bag was tested in our New York City lab (with the exception of the best tote option, which is personally owned and recommended by one of our team members).

During testing, we examined each bag for the quality of its construction, hardware, and features, packing the bag with a predetermined list of items to analyze its storage capacity and organizational features. We also tested water-resistant or waterproof bags by spraying them with water to ensure the contents would remain dry and the fabric would not absorb any water.

Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson

We carried or rolled the fully packed bags through obstacle courses and around our office to assess the maneuverability and comfort. To test for durability, we threw the bags off of counters with a dummy laptop inside to see if it was protected through falls. For suitcases, we also hit them with a baseball bat to check the strength of the outer shell. We continued using the products for at least six months after our initial tests to make sure they stand up to real travels over longer periods of time, and we will continue to update this article as we test even more bags we love.

Tips for Buying a Laptop Bag

Determine your ideal size.

Since laptops come in multiple sizes, so do laptop bags. The most common sizes accommodate devices that measure up to 14, 16, or 18 inches. If you own a 14-inch laptop, don't be tempted to buy a much larger bag (usually, anything more than half an inch is considered too big) because it won't protect your device against bumps and drops that well if the pocket doesn't hold it snugly. And if you prefer a larger bag to also accommodate things like clothes and gear, consider buying an additional laptop case for extra protection.

Look for built-in organization

Most travelers who carry a laptop also need room to store additional tech accessories such as chargers, cables, headphones, and memory cards. Some laptop users may even travel with an extra keyboard and mouse. That's why your laptop bag should have a well-designed interior with multiple pockets, slots, and compartments. This will keep your belongings organized and easily accessible whenever you need them. If you plan on packing clothes and toiletries in the same bag, then look for styles with at least two roomy compartments, ideally zippered, so your laptop and tech gadgets are protected from accidental spills. You can also buy a tech pouch separately if you need that extra level of organization to keep all of your chargers and accessories together.

Consider the best material for your needs

Laptop bags are made from a variety of materials ranging from leather to synthetic fabrics to PVC, and each has its pros and cons. Natural materials like canvas are lightweight, but they easily absorb moisture. However, some companies treat the exterior canvas with a waterproof coating that adds a water-resistant, easy-to-clean layer.

Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester are a preferred material for backpacks. They are lightweight and flexible so you can easily place them under the seat, and they provide protection from the elements. On the flip side, nylon and polyester are very thin, so look for bags with additional padding in the laptop compartment. Leather backpacks, messengers, and totes all look beautiful and provide good protection. While leather has a degree of natural water-resistance, it can still get soaked through, and the material tends to be heavier.

Finally, hardside bags and carry-ons are an excellent option for those who like to travel light — after all, traveling with a carry-on suitcase with a laptop compartment means you don’t need to carry a separate laptop bag.

Generally, laptops are measured by the distance between the diagonal edges of their screens. However, this size does not account for any additional material that encases the screen. So when choosing a bag, close your laptop and measure it diagonally from edge to edge — you will probably end up with a number that’s higher by a quarter-to-full inch than its screen size. Considering this number, choose a laptop bag that can accommodate it. 

If your laptop is thicker than the average computer, check the width of the bag's laptop compartment to ensure it can fit comfortably inside.

Most airlines' carry-on allowance includes a personal item that you can store under the seat in front of you. So, many travelers pack a laptop into that bag — it’s easily accessible and always with you. However, if you know you won't need your laptop and your hardside carry-on provides good protection for fragile items, you can also store it in there and place it in the overhead bin during a flight.

We would never recommend you store your laptop in checked luggage because it might get damaged, lost, or even stolen during your trip. Baggage handlers aren’t exactly known for being delicate, and with more than 50 percent of travelers admitting to having luggage lost by an airline, you’ll want to avoid storing expensive items in your checked luggage. Additionally, if you're headed on a multi-leg trip, it's a good idea to have your laptop with you in case you need to use it.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Contributor Dobrina Zhekova is a lifestyle journalist with over a decade of editorial experience in print and digital media in the U.S. and Europe. For this story, she worked with T+L's editors to curate a list of the best laptop bags with insights from T+L’s real-world and lab tests, along with additional product research as necessary.

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The 7 Best Rolling Suitcases, According to Our Hands-On Experience

Our top luggage picks for every traveler—and every budget.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

If it’s been a minute since the last time you replaced your luggage, consider the importance of having a reliable suitcase on your journey. You don’t want to be the person with the duck-taped spinner on the baggage carousel. That’s no way to kick off a vacation. Plus, performance and design innovations tend to improve with time, so you may be missing out on luggage that’s lighter weight and easier to pack than whatever you have stored in your closet.

As a former travel editor, I’ve tried quite a few rolling suitcases—and I tried several more just for this piece. Read on for our picks for the best rolling suitcases on the market, spanning a range of price points, plus advice on what look for while you shop.

The Best Rolling Suitcases

• Best Overall : Away The Carry-On
• Best Value: Monos Carry-On Pro
• Best Budget: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage
• Best Customizable : Roam Carry-On Front Pocket
• Best Sustainably Made : Paravel The Aviator

How We Selected

I have more than a decade of professional experience geeking out over luggage (to a degree that most people would find obsessive and exhausting). As a senior editor on Popular Mechanics ’ product reviews team, I still keep tabs on brands that are new to the marketplace, watching for new innovations in design and moves toward incorporating sustainable materials.

Our selection includes hardside and softside carry-on and checked rolling suitcases, from sub-$200 weekenders to luxury bags that cost well over $1,000. We got our hands on the majority of luggage we feature below, and vetted the others for high-quality materials and construction. To compare each, we considered wheel performance, handle sturdiness, and organizational design, along with overall aesthetics and nice-to-have extras like luggage tags and laundry bags.

Away The Carry-On Rolling Suitcase

Away’s original Carry-On, which dropped back in 2016, continues to be one of the brand’s bestsellers, and we totally get why. Of all the bags we got our hands on, this one went above and beyond for performance and attention to detail.

To my mind, the most important feature on any rolling suitcase is, in order, the wheels and the trolley handle—and Away’s Carry-On nails both. Travel can be tiring and stressful enough without a full-on workout to get your luggage from terminal to gate. That’s why it’s essential to have one that drives like a dream.

The bag didn’t get stuck on carpeting or pavement and kept up with me while I darted through crowds (one of my superpowers). I appreciated the grippy trolley handle versus the hard plastic on most others, and the TSA-approved combination lock was nice to have on top rather than along the side.

In terms of aesthetics, things like the wide-stitch leather trim and bonus leather luggage tag add considerable polish, which is appreciated at this price point.

Away’s latest update to its rolling suitcase line includes a recessed underside handle that helps you lift the bag onto a luggage stand or hoist it up into the overhead. Simple, but genius.

The interior also got a refresh, with three mesh pockets integrated in its compression system. Good functionality, but looks-wise, it doesn’t break the mold.

Still, all in all, it’s tough to find serious fault with this rolling suitcase. Away set the standard with a 100-night trial and a limited lifetime guarantee, which most newer luggage brands have since adopted. Whether you want to spend $315, especially when some of the competition offers a close second for considerably less, is your preference.

Monos Carry-On Pro Rolling Suitcase

Monos is a relative newcomer to the luggage and lifestyle travel space. Just five years in, the Vancouver-based brand has managed to turn out a collection of carry-on and checked bags that look great and offer fantastic value.

The Carry-On goes head-to-head with Away’s Carry-On on all the most important points—and costs $255 versus Away’s $315. The rolling suitcase’s high-performance spinner wheels and sturdy trolley handle are equally impressive.

And while it may not have an exterior with high-end details, Monos one-ups its main competitor on the interior, which looks more luxe and has a superior compression system. Extras thrown in include two shoe bags in addition to a laundry bag and vegan leather luggage tag.

The piece I tested is the Carry-On Pro, which adds an incredibly well-designed front laptop compartment, but is otherwise the same as the standard Carry-On, minus a few inches of interior packing space. I highly recommend it if you want an awesome rolling suitcase for work trips.

Along with everything that wowed me about the Monos luggage, I really appreciated that it came inside a canvas drawstring dust bag and shipped in a box with a handle. Those kind of thoughtful details go a long way when you’re dropping a couple hundred bucks.

Interior of the Monos Carry-On Pro

Roam Carry-On Front Pocket

Roam is the brainchild of two Tumi alums who saw potential in the marketplace for high-end, customizable luggage—and boy, is it fun to go down a rabbit hole using the brand’s online design tool.

You can choose color options for the front, back, and trim, as well as the wheels, handle, and even the binding. And, if the choices are too overwhelming, you can always leave it to the experts and go for one in the gallery. Because committing caused me more anxiety than I’d like to admit, I roped in a co-worker to design it for me (and it came out great!).

The spinner wheels performed admirably and I didn’t have any complaints about the trolley handle’s sturdiness. Also, all of Roam’s bags come with a lifetime limited warranty and a 100-day trial.

For a rolling suitcase at this price, I expected more for the interior, which was perfectly functional but lacked the next-level design of other carry-ons that cost much less.

Personally, I can’t travel without a laptop for more than a day or two, so I tested the Carry-On front pocket, which has a well-padded compartment but isn’t on par with the Monos.

If you want a rolling suitcase that offers solid performance and tons of color combo options, I highly recommend the Roam—but expect to pay much more for the privilege of owning a personally designed piece of luggage.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage 24-Inch

For less than $200, this medium checked hardside rolling suitcase is great choice—and it comes with Samsonite’s 10-year limited warranty.

The polycarbonate clamshell expandable bag has an eye-catching design and features spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and two interior packing compartments with zippered mesh dividers. There’s also a handy top handle, which makes it easy to grab off the luggage carousel.

Laptop compartments for Roam (left) and Monos (right).

Paravel The Aviator

Paravel was founded in 2016 and distinguishes itself from the pack as a sustainable, socially responsible travel brand that designs attractive, eco-friendly luggage and accessories.

The Aviator accompanied me on a weeklong trip to New Jersey. But soon after boarding the train, I decided it’s the perfect bag to take if I’m ever lucky enough to go back to St. Barth. The rolling suitcase is stunning—particularly in cream with camel vegan leather trim—and the interior’s design impressed me more than any piece luggage I’ve ever had the pleasure of packing.

Yet despite its lovely attributes, it didn’t perform nearly as well as the competition, particularly for city travel. The wheels were challenged by the commercial carpeting in my hallway and rough sidewalk pavement. It didn’t take curbs very well and the trolley handle wiggled from side-to-side.

It’s worth noting that on my flip trip back to New York, I saw a woman on the train platform with the Aviator and flagged her down to ask what she thought of it. She said she loved it overall, but also felt that the trolley handle wasn’t the sturdiest.

Still, for anyone seeking a high-style rolling suitcase that’s sustainably made, there’s no competition.

Interior of the Paravel Aviator.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Rolling Suitcase

At only 5.4 pounds, this 22-inch softside rolling suitcase is ultra-lightweight—and it’s from Travelpro, a go-to for inexpensive, well-made luggage.

It’s made of stain- and water-resistant polyester and tapered on the top to prevent tipping, with a telescoping handle that locks at two heights.

The main compartment has a zippered mesh top and adjustable hold-down straps on the opposite side, plus a zippered modesty pocket for small items like keys and chargers. There are also two large exterior compartments, plus it expands up to 2 inches—handy for the trip home if you went on a shopping spree. It comes in eight colors, though they're somewhat muted.

The only caveat is that the suitcase doesn’t have spinner wheels, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

Rimowa Original Cabin Rolling Suitcase

If dropping well over a grand on a piece of luggage is no biggie, Rimowa’s iconic aluminum Original Cabin rolling suitcase is worth considering.

Of all its high-end the ultimate jet-setter status bag boasts, my favorite has nothing to do with style. Its spinner-wheel braking system—a feature you would think midrange brands would prioritize figuring out—is practically worth the price tag. No matter how mindful I am of keeping my spinner next to me, it inevitably rolls away every time I travel.

The interior of Rimowa’s signature bag may not seem like much at first glance. But despite the lack of pockets to catch small items, its compression system is a godsend for over-packers—which is a good thing, because the bag closes with two locks rather than a somewhat forgiving zipper.

I’d be remiss not to point out that while the rolling suitcase’s name implies that it fits in the cabin, it’s almost two inches wider than standard domestic carrier dimensions. Chances are, anyone with funds to own a Rimowa won’t consider that an important detail—especially if the cabin is in a private jet.

What to Consider When Buying a Rolling Suitcase

Size and weight.

Carry-on and checked bag size and weight allowances vary widely among domestic and international airlines. As such, we highly recommend consulting your carrier’s website for specs before booking your ticket.

That said, standard carry-on dimensions for most domestic airlines are 22 by 14 by 9 inches (or 45 linear inches, measured diagonally across the suitcase), including wheels. Some international carriers cap carry-on height at 21 inches, so you may want to choose a smaller rolling suitcase if you frequently travel abroad.

Most domestic airlines don’t have weight restrictions for carry-ons, while most international carriers do. Checked bag requirements—and fees attached—are all over the map for both domestic and international carriers.

Keep in mind that baggage allowances may depend on fare class. A basic economy ticket on United or JetBlue, for example, doesn’t include a free carry-on—just a personal item.

Hardside or Softside?

The next decision to make is whether you want a hardside or a softside bag. Polycarbonate is typically used for hardside luggage (also referred to as hard-case or hardshell, depending on the brand) whereas softside rolling suitcases are often made of ballistic nylon—there are pros and cons of each.

Hardside suitcases are generally more durable, but lack outer pockets and scratch easily. Softside luggage isn’t as durable as edges can fray over time, but often includes several outer pockets so you can grab what you need while on the go. A few brands—like Monos and Roam—have hardside suitcases with padded front laptop compartments. You’ll find expandable models for both hardside and softside bags.

Spinner or Fixed Wheels?

Next up: do you want a bag with four spinner wheels or two traditional fixed wheels? Spinner wheels rotate 360 degrees, which makes it easy to roll your bag alongside you rather than dragging it behind you all the time.

The downside is that spinners aren’t as compact fixed wheels and the majority of spinner bags don’t have a brake system, which may mean your suitcase rolls away on surfaces with an incline.

Finally, you should absolutely factor in the warranty when buying any suitcase. Some brands also offer a 100-day trial period with a money-back guarantee and a lifetime limited warranty. A 10-year limited warranty is solid. We avoided featuring brands or specific models with five-year warranties or less, since luggage can be quite an investment.

Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics , where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend. 

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The 7 Best Backpacks for Commuting to Work

11 BEST Business Travel Backpacks (For Men & Women)

A complete list of the 11 BEST business backpacks for men and women!

You know that feeling when you’re about to travel and realize that your carry-on bag is too small to fit all of your clothes? It’s not fun, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Whether you’re planning a business trip to meet a client or going to open a new office abroad, these backpacks are exactly what you’re looking for.

From the best ones to carry your equipment to comfortable and padded ones, I’ve got you covered in this comprehensive guide.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACKS

Business travel backpacks are not just about looks — they must be able to carry all the equipment that you need for your workday, plus any personal items that you want to bring along in case of delays or unforeseen circumstances.

The right backpack will protect your gear and keep it safe while you’re on the go, but also give you easy access when necessary.

These are the 3 absolute best business travel backpacks:

• Nomatic Travel Bag 20L – Best Overall Business Travel Backpack – From $300 This bag features padded shoulder straps, reinforced stress points on the bottom panel, water-resistant lining, and a resistant laptop sleeve with an interior mesh pocket for quick access items such as tickets or passports.
• Tortuga Setout – Best Laptop Backpack for Longer Trips – From $179 The Setout 45L Carry-on Travel Backpack is a feature-rich bag that helps you stay organized. With space for 7 days’ worth of clothing, toiletries, and traveling necessities, you’ll never be without what you need, when you need it.
• KomalC Leather Briefcase – Best Business Messenger Bag – From $89 The KomalC Briefcase is mostly made from leather which is a nice touch if you’re coming from a nylon bag. It is an elegant and classy commuter bag for all business travelers.

Of course, this is only a short overview, so make sure to read until the end of this post to discover all the features of each of them in greater detail.

QUICK ANSWERS – BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK

Can business travel backpacks replace a suitcase.

Carry-on luggage typically measures 56 x 45 x 25 cm, but a suitcase can accommodate more than a backpack.

Yes, soft-sided backpacks are generally soft, but compressing a suitcase and securing everything with compression straps is something travel backpacks seldom enable.

Needless to say, a travel backpack can be a limitation depending on the number of clothes or items you plan to bring.

That said, it’s a great valid alternative if you plan to travel for a few days in or out of the country.

WHAT ARE THE TOP BACKPACK BRANDS FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL?

Other than the best daypack for travel, it’s important to consider the brands themselves.

Sure, while some brands may be unknown to you, some others are reputable and produce items for numerous years with outstanding quality.

These best backpack brands are:

• Kenneth Cole
• Tommy Hilfiger
• American Tourister

There are dozens of quality brands on the market, however, these are the top backpack brands and you’re sure to get a quality product that will stand the test of time.

WHAT DO YOU NEED IN A BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK? – THE KEY FEATURES

We’re focusing on the finest travel backpacks for business, which means they differ from other types of backpacks. But what should you consider before purchasing one?

There are several factors to take into consideration and we’ll go through them below.

Many business backpacks include hidden compartments, strong zippers, and hardy fabric that is difficult to cut through. When you’re transporting valuables, it’s critical to have a secure solution.

Having a hidden zipper, a secret compartment for your passport, credit cards, or other documents, and premium material hard to cut is essential for a smooth business trip.

IT SHOULD HAVE A LAPTOP COMPARTMENT

It goes without saying that having a laptop compartment in a business backpack is essential and is simply a must-have.

A laptop compartment is necessary to protect and secure your electronics while moving through the TSA line quickly.

The padding is very important since you don’t want to damage or even break your laptop. In general, virtually every well-designed backpack (except for hiking backpacks) comes with a laptop compartment.

ORGANIZATION & ACCESSIBILITY

The organization compartments are particularly crucial.

If you’re commuting with a laptop, several chargers, vital papers, clothing, and other items, you’ll probably want pockets to store them in. Of course, this implies you’ll need lots of pockets to accommodate everything.

My favorite backpacks have u-zip designs. This means that they can be opened fully on at least two sides for quick access.

STYLISH, CLASSY, & WEATHERPROOF

The greatest travel business backpacks are current and stylish, so you can go to the office and your vital meetings without looking like a hiker.

You may also want to consider how your backpack reflects your personality. Examine this list and see which travel company backpack fits your style the best.

If you’re going on business trips often, or if it’s going to rain a lot in the city you’ll be visiting, you might want to ensure that your bag is water-resistant or waterproof.

This isn’t necessary for work travel backpacks, but if you’re spending time outside or traveling to a city where it rains constantly, then it must be considered.

IT MUST BE COMFORTABLE & NOT HEAVY

Fit and comfort are critical elements in any backpack selection. A large or little backpack will be uncomfortable, clunky, and perhaps even painful if it’s not the right size for your frame.

This implies double-checking that the straps are comfortable and properly fit your body. Look for adjustable straps as well as waist straps to help distribute the weight of a bigger bag.

Hiking backpacks have more adjustable straps, whereas commuter bags have fewer of these features.

A USB CHARGING PORT WILL SAVE YOUR DAY

A USB attachment in a backpack is simply a long extension cable. The power bank is connected to the cable within the backpack.

Then you’ll need an electronic device and a supplementary charging cable, which connects from the outside of the bag.

When you don’t have access to a plug while on business travel, this may be a lifesaver.

THE 11 BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACKS

If you’ve ever gone on a business trip, chances are you’ve carried your luggage in one of those ubiquitous black nylon backpacks.

But have you ever stopped to think about what makes the best business travel backpack?

If not, this is exactly what you’re looking for and we go into the 11 best travel backpacks for business to remain comfortable and secure on a business trip.

NOMATIC TRAVEL BAG 20L – $300

Nomatic, the company known for its packing cubes, has released one of the best backpacks ever made.

First and foremost, the bag is thing is water-resistant as well as super resistant to any situation.

As someone who travels quite a bit with only hand luggage, that’s important. Over time many bags wear down or start looking tatty.

It’s made of extremely durable material which does make the backpack feel slightly heavier than other comparable bags.

In addition, it’s very functional, and if you’re familiar with Nomatic products, this bag comes in the same size as their previous 20L daypack model (which was great).

They just made it less boxy and added a few extra pockets for good measure – basically, they turned what already worked into an even better product.

Lastly, it comes with a removable waist strap which is a huge selling point. With the waist strap, you can distribute the weight evenly and have a more comfortable carry even if it’s a bit heavier than usual.

All in all, the Nomatic travel bag is one of the most comfortable business backpacks.

The downside? It’s quite pricey – For $300, it’s an investment, albeit a good one as far as bags go.

TORTUGA SETOUT  – BEST CARRY-ON BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK – $179

The Setout Tortuga backpack is a sturdy, lightweight, and versatile backpack that is perfect for all purposes from outdoor adventures to business trips and even going on a road trip .

The design features include the use of high-quality external fabrics with water-resistant coating, durable lockable zippers, and multiple compartments to keep your gear organized.

2 versions are available – the 26L expandable and the 45L fully expanded. They both open flat like a suitcase and it is a great advantage when looking for specific items and not wasting time on a business trip with colleagues or managers.

The backpack also uses dual foam padded shoulder straps that are ergonomic, breathable, removable, and adjustable.

Last but not least, it is cheaper than other backpacks but it is still an investment. The expanded 26L version costs $179 and the bigger expanded one will set you back $199.

While the Nomatic is, in my opinion, the most comfortable backpack, the Tortuga quality is very close and it’s surely one of the best on the market.

VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY BACKPACK – $99

There are so many backpacks to choose from, but the Victorinox business backpack is one of the best because it features a padded laptop compartment and two large compartments with plenty of space for all your belongings.

With its classic style and sleek design, this backpack is perfect for all travelers who need to carry everything they might need on their business trip.

There are several models available to please everyone.

What I really liked about the Victorinox Swiss Army Backpack is the fact that it has multiple storage pockets to put anything you can think of from pens, notebooks, documents, and more.

It’s also classy which makes it one of the most attractive business backpacks I can think of.

OSPREY FARPOINT – COMFORTABLE BUSINESS BACKPACK FOR TRAVEL – $98

The Osprey Farpoint is a great backpack for those of you who are looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on that will fit into any overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.

It has plenty of padding and comfort features but also has a limited number of pockets and zippers which might be off-putting to some people.

The backpack also cannot be carried like a traditional backpack with straps, so it might not be best for those who don’t like the feel of carrying their bag on their back.

MATEIN TRAVEL LAPTOP BACKPACK – $29

The Matein Travel Laptop backpack is an awesome backpack for all your needs, including business trips.

It’s made out of water-resistant and incredibly durable polyester and has tons of great features – a charging pocket, a beautiful design, a padded laptop sleeve, and ultimately, a luggage strap.

It offers several capacities, being able to hold up to a 15-inch laptop and a tablet combined. This makes it ideal for businessmen who need their accessories at hand whenever they’re traveling or going to work.

On top of all these features, the backpack provides an outside pocket specially designed to charge your phone or your tablet.

As such, you won’t have to worry about your battery ever again when you’re either working or traveling.

On the flip side, the backpack might not be as resilient against water as other backpacks here.

AMAZON BASICS SLIM CARRY-ON LAPTOP – $71

This slim and affordable carry-on laptop travel backpack comes with a padded laptop sleeve made of durable fabric and also features a foldable water-resistant cover to keep your laptop dry.

It has plenty of room for other essentials like clothing, shoes, toiletries, and snacks.

For less than $100, the Amazon Basics Slim Carry-On Laptop Travel Weekender is perfect for all frequent business travelers!

On the other hand, one point to note is that the compartments only open on two sides. Small packing cubes would help, but likely not solve the problem.

KOMALC 16-INCH LEATHER BRIEFCASE – $89

The KomalC 16-inch leather briefcase is perfect for business professionals who want to stand out from the crowd.

The exterior of the bag is made from high-quality buffalo leather and has a beautiful design that will perfectly match your business trip.

The interior is divided into two separate compartments with an inside pocket for your laptop and tablet, as well as plenty of space for files and folders.

It also includes a removable shoulder strap that can be tucked away when not in use.

All things considered, it’s one of the best business travel backpacks, however, it’s essential to highlight the fact that it needs to be maintained since it’s real leather.

SAMSONITE CLASSIC LEATHER SLIM BACKPACK – $150

We all know that backpacks are a necessity when going on a business trip, but the problem is they’re not always stylish.

However, this is not the case with the Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack.

This backpack is made of durable and rich-looking leather which makes it perfect for any professional looking to “spice up” their outfit.

With a sleek design, ample space, and more features than you can count on two hands, this backpack has so many advantages over other bags on the market.

It’s available in 2 colors – black and brown – to please everyone whether you’re going on a business journey or around town to meet friends.

KENNETH COLE REACTION MANHATTAN SLIM BACKPACK – $149

Kenneth Cole is a company that believes in the power of fashion to make your business trip more fashionable.

For this, they have designed backpacks with maximum functionality for today’s on-the-go lifestyle and the Manhattan Slim Backpack is the perfect example.

It has been made to fit laptops up to 16 inches and it’s great for going to the office or away for a few days.

This bag is a durable and stylish laptop backpack that will give you the ultimate protection for your most important belongings.

Made of an elegant Colombian genuine leather exterior with tear-resistant lining, it features RFID-blocking technology to keep all personal information safe from thieves as well as a trolley tunnel to fit over luggage handles so no more carrying heavy bags on wheels!

KROSER LAPTOP BAG PREMIUM BRIEFCASE – $39

This women’s black briefcase by Kroser is made from a soft, flexible material with extra pockets for organization.

It expands for greater capacity and is simply one of the best business travel bags.

In addition, its water-resistant exterior can withstand heavier rain or spills, preventing materials inside from being damaged by water.

There are compartments for your 17-inch laptop, iPad, pens, wallet, notebooks, and anything else you may need to bring with you when traveling.

The laptop compartment is padded which protects the items inside from accidental bumps or shocks that could potentially damage your items.

All in all, it’s one of the best bags to bring on a business trip abroad or around the country.

But, as constructive feedback, I’d say that the Kroser laptop bag doesn’t have enough padding on the sides and the bottom which is something worth considering.

EVERKI ATLAS BUSINESS LAPTOP BACKPACK – $159

The Everki Atlas is a compact, comfortable, and affordable business travel backpack that you can bring along anywhere you’re headed.

The first compartment is a special “checkpoint ready” pocket that will fit up to a 17.3-inch laptop and has been created especially for the ones with lots of equipment.

It has more pockets to place your accessories and small items such as a Kindle, phone chargers, cables, pens, and more.

It opens up 180 degrees which is convenient when going through a security checkpoint that accepts checkpoint-friendly bags.

Additionally, it includes wide, padded shoulder straps with a 5-point balance strap to distribute weight and wear it more comfortably.

The Everki Atlas comes in two different versions – the 15.6-inch and the 17.3-inch – with only a $10 difference between them and is definitely the best daypack for travel.

With this in mind, a point to mention is the weight. In fact, while the bag is greatly padded, it adds up weight and the Everki backpack weighs 4.01 lbs or 1.8 kilograms.

Needless to say, that’s quite some weight used and could be a disadvantage when traveling.

SUMMARY – BEST BUSINESS BAGS FOR TRAVELING

So there you have it, a list of 11 different business travel backpacks for men and women based on their size, weight capacity, price range, and more.

I hope that you were able to find the perfect backpack to take your business travel experiences from an average one to a great one!

If not, please leave a comment below this post so I can help provide some additional insight into which type may be best suited for your needs.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

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The Best Bags for Business Travel

Business bags need to have a certain grace and formality to them. But if you plan to travel with them, they also need to offer practical designs for clocking up the miles. Travel can be demanding, so durability is key. But you don’t want to be hefting unnecessary weight, so lightweight construction should certainly factor into the decision-making process too. And of course organization is another important consideration. You’ll want to keep business tools, travel items, clothing and other essentials tidy and easily accessible, rather than having to deal with a jumbled free-for-all.

Finally, it’s worth thinking about the environments you’ll be navigating on your travels. Will you be bringing your bag into a boardroom or meeting? If so, does it look the part or will it draw unwanted attention for its too-casual aesthetics? Do you need to look sharp or pack a lot? Wheeled bags are convenient for heavy loads and can lend a more professional air to your appearance.

On the other hand, if you’ll be experiencing busy streets, public transport and changing terrains, backpacks can be a great option for navigating crowds, rough terrain and steps. Nothing says you mean business like a briefcase, and shoulder bags can be a good option if you want to balance easy portability and smart style.

Choosing bags for business travel is a decision that requires time and consideration. But to help you out we’ve rounded up some of the best bags for the job…

The Backpack

Thule Accent Backpack 28L (US$ 129.95)

The 28L Accent Backpack is a practical, adaptable choice for short work trips and overnight or weekend stays, and packs plenty of features into its sleek form. The bag’s wide-opening main compartment provides ready access to your gear, and you’ll find a useful mix of interior and exterior pockets to keep your travel essentials tidy. A choice of top and side access lets you easily reach your laptop on the go, and the luggage passthrough sleeve allows for handy all-in-one portability with rolling luggage.

Arc’teryx Blade 28 (US$ 138.98)

The Blade 28 is ideally suited to overnight or short trips, with a range of features to organize your work and personal items. The main clamshell-style compartment is handy for storing clothes and documents, while a front pocket with interior organization is useful for keeping frequently used items tidy and within easy reach. The pack’s internal padded sleeve fits up to a 15″ laptop, while exterior top and side handles provide additional carry options.

Incase EO Travel Backpack (US$ 179.95)

Incase’s EO Travel Backpack offers a convenient clamshell opening for easy packing and access, with an expandable main compartment when you need to pack a little extra. The flat-lay laptop compartment makes passing through airport security easier and fits up to a 17″ laptop. Rounding things off are a choice of quick-access pockets for travel and EDC essentials, as well as top and side grab handles for flexible portability.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 (US$ 235)

The versatile Synapse 25 lends itself to a range of uses, from carry-on companion to urban daypack at your destination or outdoor bag if your trip allows you to squeeze in a day hike. A range of front pockets keep your work and travel essentials easily accessible. The main compartment opens wide for handy access and includes a large elastic-topped pocket for organization. Take note, there’s no dedicated storage for a laptop so you’ll need to supply your own sleeve (or go with Tom Bihn’s optional Cache ). The pack comes in a choice of fabrics and includes a lifetime guarantee.

Aer Travel Pack (US$ 220)

Winner of our Best Carry-On award , Aer’s sleek and stylish Travel Pack offers a variety of handy features for the business traveler. A clamshell-style main compartment allows for easy packing and access, a suspended laptop pocket stores up to 15″ tech, and a dedicated shoe compartment keeps your shoes or dirty laundry away from the rest of your gear. There’s also plenty of pockets for organizing smaller items, and compression straps to cinch the bag into daypack mode for use at your destination.

Minaal Carry-on 2.0 (US$ 299)

The Minaal Carry-on 2.0 looks suave in urban settings but is tough enough for regular travel use. Complementing the clean silhouette are a host of features such as a rain cover, an adjustable sternum strap that clips out of the way when not in use, top and side handles, and a protective backpack strap cover to prevent unsightly dangling or snagging in tight spaces. The device compartment offers suspended and adjustable storage for a laptop, a passport pocket, plus a document sleeve. Peek inside the main compartment and you’ll find 3D pockets to help keep your gear tidy on the move.

Tom Bihn Tri-Star (US$ 360)

Functional and adaptable, the Tom Bihn Tri-Star offers great organization, a durable build with a lifetime guarantee, and a choice of handy carry options. Quick-access front pockets are useful for smaller travel, work and EDC items, while three compartments provide storage for clothes, tech and documents. The bag includes top and side carry handles and stowable backpack straps, and can also be used with an optional shoulder strap.

Slicks BIZ (US$ 369)

The Slicks BIZ is a sleek carry-on with plenty of features to keep you organized during your travels. A dedicated suspended laptop compartment fits up to 15″ devices, while front pockets offer storage for bulkier items and shoes. The clamshell-style main compartment includes pockets for documents and valuables, and storage space for the modular Slicks Suitcover to keep work clothes wrinkle-free and the Slicks Tripcover. The Tripcover provides multiple pockets for additional clothing, along with a removable laundry bag, wash bag, and Slicks Shirtcover to protect shirt collars and assist with folding.

Briefcases and Shoulder Bags

Red Oxx Mini Boss (US$ 245)

A more compact alternative to Red Oxx’s Air Boss, the burly Mini Boss is suitable for carry-on use and provides two compartments for clothes and tech. The first compartment includes a flip-out pocket for smaller items or toiletries, while the second compartment includes a suspended laptop sleeve. Exterior full-length pockets on the front and back let you stash frequently used items for easy access. In addition to top grab handles, the bag also comes with a detachable non-slip shoulder strap. And for peace of mind, this handmade bag includes a “No Bull” lifetime warranty.

Red Oxx Air Boss (US$ 265)

The Red Oxx Air Boss offers all the durability of the Mini Boss, but with a larger 40.4L capacity (compared to the Mini Boss’s 24.3L). A detachable non-slip shoulder strap and top handles provide carry flexibility, while a choice of three compartments provide storage for clothes, work documents, and tech. It’s worth noting the Air Boss does not include dedicated storage for a laptop, so you’ll need to provide your own protective sleeve. There’s also a choice of exterior pockets for storing items such as a phone, passport, and magazine.

Mandarina Duck Carry Borsa Da Lavoro (around US$ 310)

The Mandarina Duck Carry Borsa Da Lavoro moves smoothly between formal and informal settings alike with a slim and understated design. In addition to a shoulder strap the bag includes top and side carry handles for easy portability. Well suited to carrying work essentials, the bag offers space for a laptop, documents and organizer pockets to keep smaller work tools and travel items in order on the go.

Rimowa Salsa Deluxe Hybrid Notebook (US$ 425)

Lightweight yet durable, the Salsa Deluxe Hybrid Notebook is crafted from polycarbonate and Keprotec® fabric reinforced with Kevlar fiber. The bag can be carried with the top handles or a removable shoulder strap, and offers a variety of exterior pockets for storing quick-access items. In addition, one of the exterior pockets can convert into a trolley passthrough sleeve for easy transport with larger luggage. The main compartment opens wide for hassle-free access and includes a removable laptop sleeve, along with further pockets for organizing smaller items and space for a change of clothes.

Tumi Alpha 2 Expandable Organizer Laptop Brief (US$ 455)

A premium offering from Tumi, the Alpha 2 Expandable Organizer Laptop Brief looks right at home in the boardroom but adapts to a range of environments. The bag includes a main compartment and a secondary compartment with multiple dividers for organization. A tablet sleeve and a removable padded laptop sleeve take care of your tech, while a host of exterior pockets provide convenient storage for smaller work tools and travel items. And not forgetting one of the main features, the bag is expandable so you can easily store a change of clothes for an overnight trip or additional work supplies.

Travelteq Briefcase Original Special Edition (around US$ 455)

The elegant Travelteq Briefcase Original Special Edition gives a solid nod to style while providing practical features for carrying business and travel essentials. Crafted with vegetable-tanned Florentine Vacchetta leather and waterproof Limonta nylon, the bag offers a range of slip and zipped interior pockets and dedicated storage for up to a 15″ laptop. An exterior pocket for smaller items and a concealed newspaper pocket provide further organization, while a luggage strap lets you easily secure the briefcase to trolley luggage.

Eagle Creek Expanse™ International Carry-On (US$ 189)

Eagle Creek’s Expanse™ International Carry-On adapts to smaller and larger loads with a 33.5L volume that expands to 36.5L when you need to pack in extra. Additionally, exterior attachment points allow you to secure bulky items externally. The bag’s heavy-duty wheels handle a range of terrains with ease, and a choice of top, side and bottom grab handles help you maneuver the bag in tight spaces. Quick-access items can be stored in a range of exterior pockets, including a padded tablet sleeve. Inside the main compartment a further pocket offers additional organization, along with compression straps to keep clothing tidy. Security features including a Central Lock Point and Secure Zip™ Toggles provide peace of mind, as does the No Matter What™ warranty.

Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller (US$ 225)

The Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller packs in plenty of useful features such as grab handles on all sides, two front pockets for a laptop and quick-access items, and a choice of pockets in the main compartment. The bag can be opened in a clamshell-style mode for easy access throughout the main compartment. Alternatively a front flap provides fast entry when you don’t want to open the bag completely. The Copilot is also backed by a lifetime warranty so you can feel confident it will hold up to years of use.

Raden A22 (US$ 295)

The Raden A22’s sleek aesthetics are complemented by a variety of smart luggage features to help make your journeys smoother. An integrated battery and two USB ports allow you to conveniently charge tech devices on the go. In addition, proximity sensors utilize Bluetooth to provide location updates and help keep the case by your side, while the case’s handle also serves as a luggage scale. Made with lightweight yet impact-resistant polycarbonate, the Raden A22 also features spinner wheels for convenient maneuverability.

Thule Crossover Carry-on 56cm/22″ (US$ 299.95)

This rugged roller bag will stand up to years of demanding use thanks to its tough oversized wheels, V-Tubing™ telescoping handle, hard-wearing exoskeleton and molded polypropylene back panel. The clamshell main compartment makes it easy to pack and retrieve items, and there’s dedicated storage for a 15″ laptop and fragile items. Even better, it’s got a carry trick up its sleeve. Concealable backpack straps let you quickly convert the roller bag to pack mode, so you can easily navigate stairs, rough terrain and crowds when the need arises.

Incase Kaskade Carryon with Luggage Tag (US$ 349.95)

Designed in collaboration with DJ KASKADE, this roller offers urban-friendly style combined with useful travel functionality. Top and side handles assist with maneuverability in awkward spaces, and a quick-access front pocket is handy for the likes of toiletries. A choice of mesh pockets in the main compartment prevent a jumbled mess, and the clamshell-style opening enables easy access throughout. As an added bonus, the roller also comes with a luggage tag.

Rimowa Salsa Air Multiwheel (US$ 495)

Crafted from lightweight yet tough polycarbonate, the Salsa Air Multiwheel brings style and easy maneuverability to your travels. The bag includes spinner wheels, top and side carry handles, a TSA-approved combination lock, and two interior mesh pockets for organization. The 33L case also comes with a five-year warranty and looks good in any setting.

Samsonite Lite-Cube Spinner 55cm (around US$ 485)

The Lite-Cube Spinner offers a sophisticated combination of elegance, durability and easy movement. The case is crafted from impact-resistant yet lightweight Curv material and comes with a 10-year warranty. The clamshell opening reveals a choice of interior pockets for organization. Complementing the interior are useful exterior features including a TSA lock, recessed top and side carry handles, and an integrated ID tag.

Tumi Alpha Bravo Peterson Wheeled Backpack (US$ 545)

Can’t decide between a pack or wheeled luggage? Have both with this adaptable hybrid design that can be carried as a backpack or wheeled as rolling luggage to suit different environments. The bag offers a retractable pull handle for wheeled use, along with stowable backpack straps and a wheel cover to protect your clothing in backpack mode. Quick-access travel and work items can be conveniently stored in a variety of exterior pockets, including dedicated space for a 15″ laptop and tablet. The main compartment opens wide for easy packing and access, with a pocket for further organization and compression straps to keep clothing secure.

Garment Bags and Suit Carriers

Eagle Creek Pack-It Garment Folder – Medium (from US$ 28.01)

Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Garment Folder provides a convenient way to reduce wrinkles in your clothing, with Compress Wings™ that provide stretch compression. The folder comes with a handy folding instruction board and is constructed with water and odor-resistant material. A grab handle lets you easily transport it to and from your bag, and a choice of three sizes accommodate different loads (with the small and medium fitting in most carry-on bags).

Henty CoPilot (US$ 229.98)

The Henty CoPilot tackles the challenges of business travel with a two-in-one design. The exterior garment bag is designed to roll around an inner tube bag that can hold shoes, accessories, toiletries and other travel essentials. Exterior pockets on the garment bag let you keep a laptop and smaller business or travel items within easy reach. A choice of grab handles and backpack straps keep you moving smoothly in changing environments, and a rain cover protects your gear against the elements.

Mismo M/S Suit Carrier (around US$ 555)

Mismo’s M/S Suit Carrier deftly merges functional design and refined style. The carrier can be unzipped fully for easy access, revealing two interior pockets for additional storage and organization. An exterior zippered pocket is convenient for housing frequently used items, and the premium materials and construction will stand up to the demands of travel for years to come.

VOCIER C38 Travel Bag (around US$ 710)

The VOCIER C38 is a handsome and luxurious carry-on bag designed to carry work clothes wrinkle-free. VOCIER’s Zero-Crease System provides curving storage for a suit to prevent wrinkles, and can also be hung up in your accommodation for easy access. A quick-entry opening lets you remove items such as a wash bag from the inner compartment without having to open the main zipper. A removable interior compartment stores additional items, while an exterior pocket in the handle provides secure and convenient storage for a passport and ticket.

Tumi Alpha 2 4 Wheeled Extended Trip Garment Bag (US$ 975)

If money is no object and wrinkle-free clothes are a priority, Tumi’s Alpha 2 4 Wheeled Extended Trip Garment Bag may be just what you’re after. The bag includes two brackets for hanging clothes on either end of the main compartment, with straps to keep items secure on the move. The bag also includes removable zippered pouches for organizing smaller items, as well as dedicated storage for three pairs of shoes. In addition, exterior pockets provide further storage for extra clothing items and travel or business essentials.

IN THIS ARTICLE

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Home » Gear » travel business backpack

10+ BEST Business Travel Backpacks (UPDATED 2024)

This list of the best business travel backpacks  is written for anyone who travels for work, commutes, or flies around the globe in search of better Wi-Fi connection.

(Take it from someone who is writing this from her laptop on a plane right now.)

But why use a backpack for travel? To be honest, briefcases are as archaic as the fax machine. Sure, they’re useful, but they are not as efficient.

If you are traveling with a laptop, important documents, more chargers than a bus full of LA football players, and enough snacks to survive an airport apocalypse, then you’re going to want a backpack.

Backpacks are revolutionizing the way we travel just like the internet has revolutionized the way we work. I mean, there was once a time when a backpack was a backpack, and now there are backpacks specifically for business, hiking, traveling ultra-lightweight; you name it.

However, with so many great choices, choosing the best backpack for work and travel can seem daunting.

Like a good pair of shoes, you want just the right fit, and lucky for you, I’ve used, tested, researched, and compiled a list of the best business travel backpacks of 2024.

You can rest assured that every business travel backpack on this list is a high-quality, durable, and TSA compliant bag specifically designed for traveling and business.

Quick Answer: These are the Best Business Travel Backpacks of 2024

• #1 Nomatic Travel Bag 40L – Best Overall Business Travel Backpack
• #2 Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Laptop Backpack for Longer Trips
• #3 Aer Travel Pack 3  – Best Business Backpack for EU Travelers
• #4 Harber City Backpack – Most Stylish Business Daypack
• #5 Kodiak Leather Satchel – Best Business Commuter Bag
• #6 Nomatic 14 Pack – Best Business Day Pack
• #7 Osprey Metron – Best Laptop Backpack for Business
• #8 Mahi Leather City Satchel – Best Business Commuter Bag
• #9 Tropicfeel Shell – Business Backpack For Digital Nomads
• #10 Osprey Talon – Business Backpack For Cyclists

Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

• > Organizational Features

Tortuga Travel Pack

• > Clothing compartment
• > Laptop and tablet sleeves

Osprey Metron

• > Laptop dedicated compartment
• > Comes with rain cover

Tortuga Laptop Backpack

• > Organization panel

Kodiak Leather Satchel

• > Large main compartment
• > Stylish and cool

Tropicfeel Shell

• Price > $$$
• > Completely Waterproof
• > Adjustable from 20L to 40L

Arcido Akra 35L

• > Super lightweight makes travel easy
• > Organized + customizable

Nomati 14L Backpack

• > Great layout keeps things organised
• > Expands to 20L. AWESOME!

Nomatic 14L Backpack

• > Stylish and professional
• > Nicely organised

Why should you travel with a business travel backpack?

Buyer guide – key features to look for the best business travel backpack, best business travel backpacks of 2024, faq about the best travel business backpack, final thoughts on the best business travel backpacks.

So why would you travel with a business backpack versus a messenger bag , briefcase, or even a purse?

Sometime the latter options may work better for you, but if you are traveling with electronic equipment – laptop, tablet – important documents, a book, etc., the weight can add up quickly.

These days, the best business travel backpacks are designed to be as efficient, secure, and comfortable as possible. Personally, I would much rather carry everything in a secure backpack that fits me comfortably than lugged over one shoulder.

If you are traveling with electronic gear, documents, and more, then having a backpack makes sense.

The business backpacks on this list were designed specifically for travelers too, meaning you can get through TSA lines and easily store your bag in an overhead bin.

Still not convinced? Every business travel backpack on this list is covered by a warranty or built to last for years.

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For this article, we are focusing on the best business travel backpacks, meaning they have a different set of criteria compared to say backpacks just for travel , lightweight backpacks, or hiking backpacks. In order to find the best one, we tested them out over a period of time by taking them with is on business trips (as proffesional Digital Nomads, every trip is a business trip ;). We assessed how comfortable they were to carry, how good the organisational capacities were, how soundly they fit as carry on and paid extra attention to laptop compartments – one particular pack lost points as I found it hard to quickly access my laptop when sat on a train.

1. Laptop compartment

The best business travel backpack will include a separate padded laptop compartment.

A laptop compartment is essential to keep your electronics secure and protected as well as move through the TSA line quickly. The padding is crucial as you’d hate to break or crack your laptop.

Frankly, pretty much every well-designed backpack on the market (except for hiking bags) have a laptop compartment.

2. Prioritize Accessibility and Organization

Organization compartments are especially important for a business travel backpack.

If you are using a backpack for work and travel, you will probably be traveling with a laptop , a few chargers, important documents, clothes, a jacket, etc. This, of course, means you want pockets and plenty of them.

My favorite backpacks have what’s called a u-zip. This means that you can open them completely on at least two sides for easy access. I’m not a big fan of top access only backpacks, even when I’m hiking.

3. Carry-on size Compliant

Carry-on travel backpacks save you from having to deal with lost bags and luggage fees. All of the backpacks on this list are carry-on sized and abide by TSA guidelines, so you can zip through the airport and to your next meeting.

Most of the backpacks on my list also have separate compartments that allow you to lie the laptop flat without actually taking it out of your backpack. This is another level of convenience and an excellent feature if you have to fly a lot.

If you’re after even more organisation and want to keep your documents at hand, even with a decent-sized bag, you can also combine one of these bags with a small but stylish travel purse too.

4. Sleek and Stylish

The best travel business backpacks are modern and chic, so you can slip into the office and your important meetings without looking like a backpacking bum.

You also want the backpack you choose to reflect your style, whether that is preppy, edgy, creative, etc. Sift through my list and see which travel business backpack fits your style most.

5. Fit and Comfort

Fit and comfort are important to any backpack purchase. If a backpack’s too big or too small for your frame, it will be clunky and heavy, uncomfortable, and maybe even painful.

This means making sure the straps are comfortable and fit your body properly. You want to look for adjustable straps and consider waist straps too, which will help balance the weight of a larger bag.

Adujstable straps are more common in hiking backpacks and less common in commuter bags . Regardlesss, the amount of customizability that a larger bag gives might not be necessary for a business backpack. You should at least look for a padded back.

6. Security

Security is another essential when you are carrying valuable things. Many of the best business travel backpacks have partially hidden compartments, sturdy zippers, and durable material that is hard to slash.

7. Weatherproof

This might not be a must-have for business travel backpacks, but if you’re spending time outdoors, or going to a city where it rains a lot, you may want to make sure your backpack is waterproof, or at least water resistant.

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Nomatic Travel Bag 40L – The Best Overall Business Travel Backpack

40 liters is the perfect carry-on size for those multi-day (3-7 day) trips. If you are planning to use a business travel backpack for overnight excursions, then I definitely suggest this choosing this bag.

This bag ticks all of the boxes for what makes the best travel business backpack: plenty of organizational features and pockets, easy accessibility to all of the compartments, durable tarpaulin/ballistic weave material, a 15″ laptop compartment, TSA compliant size, and adjustable waist straps.

Furthermore, it’s sleek and modern, so you’ll look good on the go, and the exterior of the Nomatic Travel Bag is 100% waterproof! In our experience, we found it to be very durable. We wouldn’t recommend submerging the bag in a pool, but if you are caught in a semi-heavy rainstorm, you can rest easy knowing that your stuff is going to stay dry.

The Nomatic travel bag comes with 20 unique features including a shoe compartment, secure pocket for valuables, water bottle container, a notebook pocket, the ability to switch from a duffel bag to backpack, and plenty more. There is also a Nomatic carry-on with wheels .

Our favorite features include its detachable waist straps with water-resistant pockets, unique shoe compartment, and roller bag sleeve. The roller bag sleeve allows you to carry it with additional luggage with ease. Want the full low-down on this backpack? Check out the full review of the Nomatic Travel Bag!

UPDATE for 2024:  Nomatic no longer sells or does business in the European Union, which is an unfortunate development. Those living in the EU should consider the next bag instead…

Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Business Laptop Backpack for Longer Trips

The Tortuga Travel Pack is easily one of the best carry-on travel backpacks on the market. It is quite similar to the Nomatic Travel Bag we also reviewed, but is a tad cheaper, which gives it an edge, in our opinion.

This bag packs in some awesome features include front-loading and the main compartment that opens like a suitcase, a padded and removable hip belt, padded and hideaway shoulder straps with molded foam, and weather resistant material. I also like that this bag is 40 liters, given you the extra space if you need it.

In terms of functionality, the Tortuga Travel Pack has a quick access pocket at the front with a full front tech pocket with a carabiner attachment and dividers. I like how this pocket zips all the way down to the bottom of the pack, so you have easy access to a jacket or bulky item that you want to quickly access or throw into your bag.

There is a separate laptop compartment at the back of the backpack with plenty of cushions. Your laptop will sit a few inches from the bottom for extra protection in case you drop your bag. The laptop sleeve can fit a 15-inch laptop as well as a 9.7-inch tablet. I found it really easy to slot in and slot out when I was testing it out which is why I made it my pick of the best laptop bags for business travel.

The Tortuga Travel Pack features a TSA-friendly laptop sleeve that allows you to leave the device in your backpack while going through security.

AER Travel Pack 3  – Best Business Backpack for EU Travelers

Arguably the best backpack for traveling, the AER Travel Pack 3 is the perfect bag for digital nomads and anyone on a long business trip.

This backpack was made by travelers for travelers. It is literally filled with features, and the Aer Travel Pack 3 has a compartment for almost everything.

Do you need somewhere to keep an extra pair of shoes? There’s a poclet for that. Want to put your laptop in it’s own sleeve? Done. There’s a space just for your laptop.

The bag opens like a clamshell so you can easily access your clothes, cords, or anything else you might have with you. The Aer Travel Pack 3 is small enough to be a daypack and large enough for one bag carry one trips. Minimalist design on the outside of the pack deters thieves and makes stashing your backpack in the overhead bin of a plane even easier.

Simply put, this is the best business travel backpack: it’s well-designed and extremely versatile, durable, and innovative. You’ll find yourself using it all the time – business or pleasure.

For a very detailed description of this backpack, check out the Aer Travel Pack review .

Even though we recommend the AER to European travelers, Americans can also get it; the backpack is available worldwide! It’s just a great overall backpack and is great for those who miss out on the Nomatic.

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City Backpack – Most Stylish Business Daypack

These days business people really need to look the part. And nothing exudes class, confidence and success like good quality leather! The City Backpack from Harber London was designed and made with your work day in mind. It is perfectly sized to accommodate a laptop, note book, pens, leads and a water bottle to keep you hydrated.

It has comfortable carry handles and is fairly light for a bag so tough so you wont mind carrying it to and from the office. The interior has been carefully designed to help you keep everything organised to avoid awkwardly rummaging through your bag during important meetings.

This is not the cheapest backpack on our list but it may be the suavest; for the discerning business person, makes a great investment.

Osprey Metron – Best Business Laptop Bag

The Tortuga and the Minaal Carry On 2.0 are quite similar. Both are urban-style, sleek bags known for their innovation and organizational features.

If you are after something smaller, lighter and generally commuter friendly, then why not consider the Osprey Metron. At 26l it’s a well sized daypack which will accommodate your laptop, and lunch quite nicely. There is of course a properly padded, generously sized laptop pouch along, with enough pockets and pouches for cables, hard drives and chargers as well the usual keys, cards and pens.

The compression straps are also a nice touch allowing you to fasten the backpack down so you won’t stick out like a tortoise and barge into people (as much) when you crowd onto the morning train. It also comes with a brightly coloured rain cover making this backpack ideal for cycle commutes.

While we do favor the AER travel bag for business professionals, this is still an excellent travel bag choice that you will not be disappointed with.

Nomatic Travel Pack 14  – Best Travel Business Backpack for Quick Trips

This is the goldilocks of Nomatic bags: much smaller than the Nomatic 40 coming in at 14l but then expanding to 20L. This makes it a great day business backpack which can also be adapted to work for overnight trips.

Actually, when it comes down to it, this bag is almost identical to the 20-liter Nomatic backpack but bigger, so I don’t have too much to add in this review.

Moreover, it’s TSA ready so you don’t have to take your laptop out of the compartment in line.  There is a tablet pocket for your iPad or Kindle, and a mesh dividing wall to organize clothes.

UPDATE for 202 4: Nomatic is not available in the EU or UK. Go for the AER instead.

Tortuga Laptop Backpack – Best Business Travel Backpack for Overnight Trips

Tortuga markets this bag as an “organized daypack for air travel,”  which screams take me on your business trip, if you ask me. This bag is perfect for air travel.

This is a low-profile backpack will keep all your things organized in a spacey main compartment, 15-inch laptop sleeve + tablet sleeve, mesh zippered pocket for chargers, journal compartment, pen pockets, front pocket for valuables, and a side-pocket for your water bottle .

Yeah, that’s a lot of pockets!

I also love how the Tortuga laptop backpack opens flat like a suitcase, so you can easily use this for overnight trips.

Plus, it’s easy to lock zippers, luggage handle pass, and hideaway shoulder straps make it perfect for traveling through airports.

Ultimately, we love this pack. It’s a bit on the heavier side at 2.8 pounds, but that’s the trade-off for durability. As with anything Tortuga, you are getting a high-quality backpack that will last you for years to come.

Check out our full  Tortuga Setout laptop backpack  review.

Tropicfeel Shell – Business Backpack For Digital Nomads

There are a few things that make the Tropicfeel by Shell a great business backpack. Firstly, it’s perfectly sized for carry-on cabin requirements so is ideal for taking on business trips (whether by plane or even train). Secondly, it’s the only backpack we have come across that comes with a pull-out, hang-up wardrobe, making it insanely easy to neatly pack and unpack. I found this feature to be great when I checked into my hotel room and had to quickly unpack and change to meet a client.

On the flip side though, the laptop compartment is not as accessible as with some other packs so I annoyed the fellow passengers when I basically dug deep into the pack in order to retrieve it on a train journey. The Shell is also adjustable in its size. It can be rolled up from a 22L day pack to a 30L weekend back and then the addition of the detachable pouch brings it up to a short/medium trip sized 40L backpack.

It’s a genuinely innovative, well-made backpack from a very cool up and coming brand. Oh, and it’s also made from sustainable materials giving it serious eco-cred.

The reason I rate it so highly for use by Digital Nomads is that it the perfect hybrid of a business/backpacking pack.

Arcido Akra 35L  – Best Lightweight Business Travel Backpack

This is the perfect carry on travel backpack for minimalist travelers. Its laptop harness, organizational pockets, and integrative packing cubes (in the  Arcido Akra and Vaga Daypack Bundle ) make this the perfect business travel backpack for digital nomads too.

At only 2.4 lbs, this is one of the most lightweight travel backpacks available. It can become even lighter when the sternum straps and waist belt are removed too.

Essentially, the Arcido is simple but tough, and minimal yet well-designed. While it doesn’t have as many organizational features as some of of the other business travel backpacks listed, it does come equipped with enough features to please any modern traveler.

We love that this is an affordable backpack without cutting on quality.

Check out our full Arcido Akra review.

Nomatic Backpack  – Best Business Backpack for Organized Travelers

At only 20 L (but expandable to 24L), the Nomatic Backpack is the smallest backpack from Nomatic, and the perfect option if you are looking for a small business backpack for quick trips.

The Nomatic Backpack is made of durable, waterproof materials and zippers. Like its big brothers, it can also convert into a duffel bag and has tons of pockets and compartments for organizing your things, including a hidden money pocket and RFID safe pockets (to keep electronics safe from hackers).

What makes this backpack unique is its removable panel that is designed to hold electronic gear (keyboards, wires, chargers, etc). It’s great for work-related or study trips where you are packing all your electronics.

But let’s say you are going for a quick overnight trip, or you don’t need all of your electronic gear – simply remove the panel and shed a few ounces of weight too.

Some other noteworthy features of the Nomatic Backpack include…

• Retractable key leash  – A great way to keep your keys safe and easily accessible
• Roller bag sleeve  – If you travel with a roller suitcase, this backpack will slip over the top of the retracted handle
• Cord pass through –  This backpack has strategically designed holes throughout the bag that enable you to pass cords through for a quick charge
• Notebook pocket –  If you are a notebook user then your special book will have a special place in this bag

This is the perfect backpack for that quick run to the café, going in and out of meetings, or using on flights. If you need something bigger, then check out the bag below!

UPDATE for 2024: Nomatic is not available for purchase for those living in the EU but is available as Gomatic.

Boundary Supply Prima System  – Best Business Travel Backpack for Photographers

Wait… a camera bag as a business travel backpack? Hear me out, here! The Boundary Supply Prima-System backpack uses unique modules for organizing your things.

You have side access to the main module/compartment as well as top access, a small front pocket and hidden pocket for valuables, a comfortable strap system, and separate laptop compartment that is easy to access even when the bag is full.

This is a great backpack set apart by its modular design. When you buy this backpack, you are also investing their included modules, the Verge and Fieldspace , for ultimate organization and storage.

While the  Verge is primarily used to protect camera gear in the main compartment, it can easily be used for other items, or removed entirely.

Moreover, the  Fieldspace –  as pictured – is perfect for business use. It tucks into a separate section next to your laptop compartment to keep any valuables and documents secure. Moreover, its unique design and magnetic straps make it perfect for commuting and traveling securely.

The main drawback is that it only has one water bottle pocket that doubles as a tripod holder. This is fine if you are just using this bag to carry a water bottle, but a bummer if you are trying to carry both.

Nevertheless, it’s the bag’s low-profile and minimalism that makes it great for commuting, riding public transportation, and biking. If you want a slightly lighter and smaller version, the Boundary Supply Errant backpack might be a better choice for you.

If you are looking for a camera backpack for everyday use or an efficient business backpack for overnight trips, then the Prima System by Boundary Supply is an awesome choice.

Learn more about this awesome backpack in our review of the Boundary Supply Prima-System.

Best Business Pack For Cyclists:  Osprey Talon

It’s pretty common these days for health and planet minded professionals to cycle to work – I certainly do. But finding a bike ready backpack that loves and feels right for the office can be a serious challenge. Anyway, this pack by Osprey has recently come to our attention but has impressed us very much.

A dedicated laptop compartment signifies that this bag isn’t your usual day bag. It doesn’t have the same frame and hip belt you’ll find on Osprey’s hiking line, instead of bringing along plenty of features that will help you get through the workday in style.

What makes the Osprey Talon IDEAL for cyclists is the packs light weight, breathable mesh back panel as well as an attachment for a bike helmet to fasten onto as well as a flash light. The hip belt can be used to secure it to your body and there is even a hydration sleeve for those cycling on a hot day. It comes in 11L to 32L depending on how much stuff you need.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What does a business backpack need?

A business backpack needs to be more stylish than regular backpacks, but still offer the same comfort and capacity. It’s basically a more professional looking backpack with a (usually) sleek design.

What is the most stylish business backpack?

We love the design of the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L . It’s stylish, it’s comfortable and it’s spacious as well.

What are the key features of a business backpack?

These are the key features: 1. Laptop compartment and Security 2. Accessibility and Organization 3. Sleek and Stylish, yet weatherproof 4. Fit and Comfort

Are business backpacks carry-on size?

Yes, a normal business bag should match the carry-on standards. The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is the best carry-on option.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Whether you are traveling for a week or just need a high-quality backpack to travel to and from work, this list of the best business travel backpacks includes something for you.

If you are traveling on a multi-day business trip, I highly recommend the Nomatic Travel Pack 40L . Check out the smaller versions for shorter trips or days at the office too.

While some of the companies on this list are well-known in the travel space, notable start-ups, like  Arcido   and Boundary Supply are proving to be high-quality and durable bags well worth looking into.

If you think we missed a business travel backpack on this list, let us know in the comments!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

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You’re such a savior! I’ve been scrolling for hours now and thank God I found your blog! Thanks for compiling all the best travel backpacks!!

I applaud your thorough evaluation in this article. I’m looking for a great backpack for daily work and travel. Are there backpacks out there that will not fall over—fully loaded or half loaded? Please advise. Thank you!

Thanks for sharing this helpful information about the backpack on the market. All the backpack you have described above are very secure and their features are awesome

Glad to hear you enjoyed the content! Much appreciated! Which backpack did you end up going with?

I researched every travel bag I could find and the best backpack I found was an American Tourister at Target for $60. Very lightweight and does everything these backpacks do and very high quality, lots of pockets and holds a large laptop. I’d put it up against any of these. Best decision I ever made, at least bag related. It doesn’t make any of these “best” lists though for whatever reason.

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The 11 Very Best Pieces of Rolling Luggage

“it has survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones.”.

In this article

Best rolling luggage overall.

• Best less expensive
• Best for frequent fliers
• Best mixed material
• Best aluminum
• Best for overpackers

Best rolling-luggage set

• Best soft-side

Whether I’m running frantically toward the gate or strolling through security at a more leisurely pace, my trusty spinner suitcase makes travel so much easier. It’s helpful for keeping me organized once I arrive at my destination, too. Unlike most backpacks or duffels, the best rolling luggage has storage compartments, sturdy handles, and plenty of space. There’s something so pleasing about packing your items neatly before a trip, especially if your suit case has built-in compression storage.

To find rolling luggage for every kind of traveler, fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths and I tested a dozen or so different pieces, from stretchy nylon cases with warranties that last a lifetime to bash-resistant plastic luggage. We tended to prefer hard-side cases over a soft-side, and especially those with the aforementioned compression dividers, which allow for a bit of overpacking. While some pieces may cost more than others, we’ve also learned that if you’re not fussy about the type of plastics used (ABS costs less than polycarbonate but can withstand some real rattling in transit), there are bargains to be found. While you’re here, you may want to check out my guides to the best  Dopp kits  and the best  refillable toiletry bottles .

What we’re looking for

Hard-shell vs. soft-side.

Most experts I spoke to prefer hard-shell luggage, and I agree. It’s durable and easy to clean, it protects your clothes if it rains, and it’s harder for bedbugs to penetrate if you encounter any on your trip. The hard-shells on this list are made from either ABS, an inexpensive but less durable plastic; polycarbonate, a more durable but also lightweight material; or aluminum, which is slightly heavier, but the most durable. Most on this list are polycarbonate, but there are a few soft-sided pieces too, for those who haven’t made the switch yet. While they aren’t as durable, “from a repair standpoint, we always feel that the canvas soft-sided luggage is better than the hard-side luggage because you can repair canvas,” Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods, a repair shop in Manhattan, says. He’s an authorized repairman for many of the luggage brands below and says someone comes in with a cracked hard-shell every day and “there’s no repairing them at all.” So in addition to soft-side suitcases being fixable, they’re also overpacking-friendly because you can stuff more in them than a rigid polycarbonate case (and finesse a larger carry-on to fit in an overhead bin, too.)

Our experts continuously raved about the wheels on their favorite suitcases, describing them as smooth and sturdy. Most were talking about their four spinner wheels, which make the suitcase much easier to push along as it can glide in all directions. For comfort and ease of use, four wheels is definitely the way to go and is our recommendation, but again, Pecorella says it’s not the best choice from a repair standpoint. “It is always stronger to have the case that has the two wheels on it,” he says. “Those wheels are encased, so the only thing that can really happen on those wheels is that they wear out eventually like tires on your car.” With the four spinners — which Pecorella fully admits to using personally — he says because they aren’t encased and just are attached to the bottom of the suitcase, you run the risk of them being banged off. “If you’re rolling off a curb or if you hit the escalator too hard, it’ll just snap the wheel right off,” he says. “That’s one of the biggest repairs we do here all day.” However, a good warranty should cover this (more on that below.)

Almost none of the suitcases on this list go the easy-repair route of being soft-side and having two wheels, and that’s because most have pretty good warranties. The biggest phrase you want to avoid is “limited to manufacturer’s defects,” which Pecorella says means they basically cover nothing and will attribute damage to wear and tear, or say it’s your fault or the airline’s fault. “Lifetime warranty” is ideal.

If you’ve checked an overweight bag before, you’ll know how much those extra charges can sting. Lightweight suitcases are ideal for overpackers — including myself — so I’ve included each case’s weight when empty.

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: From 7.4 pounds  

If you’re after a relatively affordable suitcase that doesn’t have to be babied on cobbled streets and will survive being dragged up several flights of stairs, I’m not sure you can do much better than Away. The brand’s sturdy spinner wheels can truly take a battering, and they’ll also glide joyfully across flat surfaces when given the opportunity. I’ve been testing the Bigger Carry-on, which has a 50-liter capacity yet still fits in most overhead bins, over the past couple of months. Griffiths, who lives in Europe (where airline luggage requirements are much stingier), tested the original, smaller size and was surprised by how much she could fit into it. All of the brand’s rolling-luggage pieces feature the same qualities essential to a modern suitcase and come highly praised by travel experts. Stephanie Be from travelbreak.net and Buena calls out the “TSA-approved lock, 360-degree wheels, tough hardware, and sleek design.” Kelly Farber , founder of KF Literary Scouting, took only the larger size on a three-week, seven-city business trip, and says, “That thing just would not quit.” Strategist editor Maxine Builder also has experience with the Away warranty after her internal zipper broke in 2019: “There was a fair bit of back-and-forth over the next four months, but I ended up with a replacement suitcase in exactly the same limited-edition colorway with the same hand-painted monogram, all for free.” Five years later, she’s still traveling with it.

Best less expensive polycarbonate rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited ten year | Weight: 7.9 pounds

Usually, cheaper hardside suitcases are made from ABS, a less durable plastic than the polycarbonate more expensive brands use. That’s why this case is such a rarity: It costs less than $200 (and is often on sale), and it’s made from the more durable polycarbonate. It also includes all of the features I’d expect from more expensive brands, like four 365-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks, and a built-in USB port to use with a power bank. Travel blogger Courtney Vondran says that “it’s a great option for budget travelers or first-timer carry-on travelers who want nice pieces for more affordable prices.” So far, Vondran has taken her case with her on “road trips throughout the Midwest, a work trip to Egypt, vacation to L.A. , travel conference in Memphis, romantic getaway to Maine,” — and it’s all been protected by the case’s limited ten-year warranty, which covers any major damages beyond reasonable wear and tear.

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: None | Weight: From 6.2 pounds

Quince , the five-year-old start-up that seems to make a little bit of everything, recently added rolling luggage to its growing inventory . I’ve been testing out the brand’s carry-on-size suitcase as well as its larger, checked one, both made from the same durable polycarbonate that Away and Open Story use. In terms of weight and feel, Quince’s affordable suitcases are surprisingly similar to Away’s in particular. When I nudged an Away Bigger Carry-on and Quince Carry-on across my apartment floor side by side, their wheels carried them about the same distance, and their retractable handles are almost identical in form and function. Both brands use YKK zippers and TSA-approved combination locks. Inside, the compression compartments and removable laundry bag are also essentially the same. One key difference: Quince does not offer a warranty on its products. If you’re a very frequent traveler and know you’ll be putting your luggage through its paces, that’s definitely something to consider. If you’re vacationing for only a couple of weeks each year, though, it’s potentially less of a deal-breaker.

Best less-expensive ABS rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited warranty | Weight: 7.3 pounds

This Amazon Basics case is made from the less durable plastic ABS, but it’s still one of Griffiths’s favorites. “In my experience, it’s rare to find a case that costs under $100 that can compete with more expensive brands,” she says. “As it is made from a cheaper plastic, I was surprised by how thick and sturdy the suitcase feels — it has a nice thud when you knock against the exterior.” As well as being thick, the exterior is also scratch resistant , and the case also has a well-designed handle, smoothly rolling wheels, handles for comfort, and a built-in lock. The warranty is where this bag falls slightly short, though (and may explain the cheaper price tag): it’s only a three-year limited warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship — which Pecorella says is the type to avoid.

Best rolling luggage for frequent fliers

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Five -year manufacturer’s guarantee | Weight: 7.1 pounds

The Rimowa Essential line of suitcases is excellent; more than ten experts we spoke with recommended the brand, but its extravagant price prevents it from taking the top spot on this list. If you do have the money to spare, it comes in 11 colors and two finishes and works like a dream. Owners especially praise the wheels. “I won’t pretend to understand all the physics behind the bearings and axles on Rimowa’s bags, but I do know they spin amazingly well through the airport,” Summer Hull, director of travel content at the Points Guy , says. Fellow travel writer Hillary Eaton also told me she had no problem lugging the case on a 48-hour journey from Vancouver to Machu Picchu by “tiny floatplane, three long-haul flights, a five-hour bus, and a two-hour train ride.” Several owners also pointed out how easy it is to get this suitcase repaired if anything goes wrong. However, while there’s a manufacturer’s guarantee of five years, it only applies if you remember to register your product when you purchase it. Otherwise, it lasts for only two.

Best rolling luggage for budget airlines

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: ABS hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: One-year limited | Weight: 6 pounds

I first learned about this teeny-tiny rolling case when researching the best personal-item-size luggage . It came recommended by Jasmine Anderson and Natasha Wilson , travel agents and co-hosts of the podcast  Travel Fly Sexy , as well as packing expert  Lauren Kelly . They all praise its snap-off spinner wheels that can slide miraculously into the cruelest of budget-airline baggage-sizers. (“Frontier lately is charging people for wheels and handles sticking out of the sizers,” says Kelly. “That means $100 extra for each leg of the trip.”) Measuring 18 by 14 by eight inches, the suitcase’s rectangular shape maximizes space and allows you to use packing cubes: “I have put a laptop and a week’s worth of clothes in the Take Off,” says Anderson. Kelly agrees that “it will give you the most packing space if your goal is a weeklong trip where you pack a personal item only.” The suitcase comes with a small bag to put its wheels in while your bag is being sized by airline staff; you can also just stash them in your pockets.

Best customizable rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 7.9 pounds

Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell calls July the “the Away of the Down Under.” And while the July Carry-on offers a lot of the same features as the Away, it has the added perk of a USB-C port so you can charge your iPhone or your laptop straight from the bag. July’s smallest carry-on weighs about half as much as Away’s, even though they both have similar liter capacities, and you can personalize it. This particular case sets itself apart with a removable fabric front pocket, which came in handy for Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl who is generally a fan of soft-side luggage. If you’re traveling for work, everything you need is easily accessible, and instead of digging through your bag to remove your laptop at TSA, you can easily just snap this pouch off instead.

Best aluminum rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Aluminum hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 10.1 pounds

Aluminum cases are as tough as they come: unlike with plastic cases, you don’t need to worry about them cracking and spilling all your belongings. They often have the added security of a clamp rather than a zip, which again is less likely to burst. This case comes from Away and has all the same specs as my favorite case overall, though it’s slightly heavier, so you may have to pack a bit lighter if you’re checking it in. Despite this, travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon says there’s plenty of space for all the essentials she’d need for a three- or four-day trip. Swede White, who works for Amazon and has to travel monthly for his job, told me the only downside to this case is that he finds it scuffs easily. Away acknowledges that this will happen, alluding to it as developing a patina over time — if you prefer a pristine case, it all boils down to personal taste.

Best rolling luggage for overpackers

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 8.36 pounds

If, like me, you can’t travel without taking your entire closet, Béis’s luggage is for you. By unzipping an internal section, the bag expands by up to three inches — meaning you can shove that extra sweater inside. More stuff means a heavier bag, but Béis’s built-in weight-limit indicator ensures you don’t teeter over the 50-pound weight restriction for many checked bags. A red mark will appear if the luggage is over, which should save you some stress and money at the check-in counter. As well as a water-resistant zipper, travel blogger HeyCiara told me she appreciates how the case also has a TSA lock, a handle with ergonomic support, and a built-in laundry and shoe bag to prevent your clothes from getting soiled.

Material: Polycarbonate hard-shell | Wheels: 360-degree spinner wheels | Warranty: Lifetime | Weight: Various

If you’re traveling as a family, a set of luggage can be the most efficient and economic way to go. This suitcase set has accompanied Strategist senior editor Ailbhe Malone’s family on trips for two years. Aside from having everything you would expect from a great quality suitcase — “smooth wheels, extremely comfortable handle, more than enough space,” Malone says — these cases are eminently easy to store. That’s because they slot inside one another, meaning you can stash a whole family’s worth of luggage in the space of a single suitcase. The polycarbonate cases come in a range of 11 pleasing colors, and thanks to their construction, any scratches or scuffs will appear as the same shade as the case, no matter how deep. For bigger concerns, the set comes with a lifetime warranty, which covers the wheels, handles, and shells.

Best soft-side rolling luggage

Hard-shell vs. soft-side: Nylon soft-side | Compression strap | Wheels: Encased wheels | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty | Weight: 5.4 pounds

From a repair standpoint, this suitcase is a dream. It’s made from easy-to-repair nylon and has just two encased wheels that won’t snap off. It expands up to two inches and has multiple compartments. None of this is groundbreaking, but that’s why I like this bag: It’s simple, effective, and on the less expensive side at under $200. TripSavvy ’s former general manager Molly Fergus told me she’s traveled with the bag across Miami, Cancun, and all over Europe: “It’s survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones,” she says. Travelpro’s limited lifetime guarantee covers defects to the wheels, zippers, extension handles, and carrying handles, and this lasts for however long you own it. On top of that, for the first year, your product is backed by its Trusted Companion Promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline and covers the shipping cost for any product that needs to be shipped to one of its repair facilities.

Additional reporting by Rachael Griffiths

Some more rolling luggage we’ve written about

Our experts

•  Jasmine Anderson , co-host,  Travel Fly Sexy • Alexandra Baackes, travel blogger and founder of Wander Woman Retreats • Stephanie Be, founder of BUENA and blog Travel Break • Gabby Beckford , travel blogger • Kiana Brooks , luxury fashion buyer • Maxine Builder , Strategist editor • Hillary Eaton , food and travel writer • Kelly Farber, founder of KF Literary Scouting • Molly Fergus, former general manager of TripSavvy • Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief • Nicholas Gill , writer and photographer • Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , travel writer • Summer Hull, director of travel content at The Points Guy • Jessie Hyman , co-founder of Pruzan Running • Ciara Johnson, travel blogger HeyCiara • Brian Kelly, The Points Guy • Lauren Kelly , packing expert • Ailbhe Malone , Strategist senior editor • Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel and lifestyle brand Black Tomato • Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods • Laura Ratliff , travel writer • Robin Reetz, writer and VP of marketing at Rag & Bone • Lauren Ro, Strategist writer • Alex Sanchez , consumer marketing manager at G Adventures • Chris Schalkx, co-founder of Rice/Potato • Jane Stoller , author of Decluttering for Dummies • Courtney Vondran , travel writer • Christine Wang, founder of TheSkiGirl • Swede White, principal content strategist at Amazon Web Services •  Natasha Wilson , co-host,  Travel Fly Sexy

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Discover a selection of business bags and suitcases designed to support you on your workdays and business trips.

Bars & Nightlife

The nightlife scene in Moscow is varied, and long gone are the days when the only kind of venues in operation were luxury establishments guarded by stern-looking bouncers. Although some places still enforce FC/DC, many are now leaning towards a more casual approach to entry - the recent decade has seen a rise in the number of casual bars modelled after hip urban haunts of West European capitals. Wine bars, craft breweries, bohemian cafes, indie bars, and glitzy nightclubs are all to be found in abundance, spread throughout the city's many neighbourhoods. And here are the best bars and nightclubs in Moscow, Russia:

Chinese Pilot Jao Da

16 Tons Club

Hookah Bar Friends

In order to satisfy the wishes of Moscow's well-off upper middle classes, many chic designer stores have opened their stores in Moscow. Today there is definitely a risk that tourists will return home with considerably more expensive souvenirs than fur hats and Russian "matryoshka" dolls, which are readily available throughout - a good place to start browsing for these is the souvenir market right next to the Red Square.

Popular Shopping Streets

Eliseyevskiy Store

Perlov Tea House

Tourist Information

Vnukovo International Airport

The city's third and most compact airport, Vnukovo is located approximately 28 kilometres southwest of the city centre. The air hub is best reached by Aeroexpress trains departing from the Kievskaya Railway Station. Several mini-buses also run here from Yugo-Zapadnaya metro station (south end of the red line).

Phone: +7 495 937-55-55

Website: www.vnukovo.ru/en

More Information:

Sheremetyevo International Airport

The largest international airport in Moscow is Sheremetyevo International Airport, located 30 kilometres from the city centre. The easiest and fastest way to reach any of Moscow's three major airports is by Aeroexpress - a fast train designated for air travelers (train departs from Belorussky Railway Station). The train ride takes 35 minutes. Another way to get here is by taxi. At the airport you can order taxis at the operator desk. You can usually book a taxi in advance through the hotel or travel agency when going to the airport. Alternatively, there are different bus routes. The buses take about 30-70 minutes depending on the route and your final destination. When traveling by car or bus, do keep in mind that rush hour traffic may sometimes be very dense, and significant delays are possible.

Address: Sheremetyevo International Airport, Moscow

Phone: +7 495 578 65 65

Website: https://www.svo.aero/en/main

Domodedovo International Airport

Another large airport in Moscow is Moscow Domodedovo Airport. The airport is located 22 kilometres away from the city. You can also reach the airport from Domodedovskaya underground station by mini-bus or bus and from Paveletsky railway station by train. The train from Paveletsky railway station takes 40-50 minutes going on the Aeroexpress train, and 1 hour and 10 minutes on the commuter train. The express buses and shuttles from Domodedovskaya underground station take 25-30 minutes and leave every 15 minutes. Buses run from 6am-12am. Taxis can be ordered at the domestic and international arrivals hall. There are car rental services at the airport.

Address: Moscow Domodedovo Airport, Moscow

Phone: +7 495 933 6666

Website: www.domodedovo.ru

Moscow has one of the world’s most beautiful underground railways which operates very efficiently. If you carry big luggage on the metro, make sure you buy a special luggage ticket. Tickets can be bought at station entrances - either at vending machines or special staffed kiosks.If you plan to use the metro multiple times during your stay, it makes sense to purchase a top-up card called "Troika".

Phone: +7 495 688 02 93

Website: www.mosmetro.ru

Public Transport

In Moscow there are also buses, trolley buses and trams apart from the beautiful metro. Tickets can be bought from the kiosks in the street or from the driver and validated once aboard.

Phone: +7 495 950 4204

Website: www.mosgortrans.ru

In Moscow the easiest way to get a taxi is the traditional way: to stand in the street and hold out your arm. Civilian cars like to operate as taxis, it is therefore recommended to only use professional taxi services. Taxi meters are not always used, so agree on a price before travelling. English-speaking taxi services in Moscow: Welcome Taxi +7 499 922 06 74 www.welcometaxi.ru LingoTaxi: +7 495 204 21 34

There are many post offices around town. If you want to send a letter you can drop it of in one of the dark blue post boxes. Main Post Office:

Address: Ul. Myasnitskaya 26, Moscow

Phone: +7 495 623 67 01

Website: https://www.pochta.ru

Medical care may be very expensive if you do not have insurance. Hotels often have their own doctor, so start there if you need help. There are dozens of pharmacies all throughout the city, and many work 24/7. Rigla 102 www.rigla.ru 15/43 Arbat, Moscow Apteka 36,6 www.366.ru 25 str 1A Zemlyanoy val, Moscow

National code: +7 Area code: 495/499

Electricity

220 volt, 50 Hz

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I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

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Reporting by Manya Saini and Pritam Biswas in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar

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Manya Saini reports on prominent publicly listed U.S. financial firms including Wall Street’s biggest banks, card companies, asset managers and fintechs. Also covers late-stage venture capital funding, initial public offerings on U.S. exchanges alongside news and regulatory developments in the cryptocurrency industry. Her work usually appears in the finance, markets, business and future of money sections of the website.

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