We looked at dozens of bags to find five carry-on backpacks that actually work for travel in 2026. We focused on size, durability, security, and comfort. Each pack fits common airline rules and protects laptops. We’ll point out strengths and trade-offs next and show what matters most when you pick one.
| Sowaovut Travel Laptop Backpack Fits 17.3-inch |  | Best for Large Laptops | Carry-on approval: Flight-approved; fits overhead or under seat (carry-on) | Laptop fit: Fits up to 17.3-inch laptop | Opening style / security for TSA: 180-degree main compartment opening; rear laptop compartment | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Airline-Approved Waterproof Carry-On Travel Backpack |  | Waterproof Travel Essential | Carry-on approval: Airline-approved; fits carry-on and slips over trolley | Laptop fit: Fits up to 15.6-inch laptop | Opening style / security for TSA: 180-degree fold-flat opening for quick security checks | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Taygeer Women’s Carry-On Backpack with USB Port |  | Best Women’s Tech Pack | Carry-on approval: TSA-approved design; compatible with many airlines’ carry-on limits | Laptop fit: Fits 15.6-inch laptop (also space for 12.9″ iPad) | Opening style / security for TSA: 180-degree zipper lay-flat (TSA-friendly) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Carry-On 50L TSA-Approved Laptop Travel Backpack |  | Best for Extended Trips | Carry-on approval: TSA/airline compatible; fits overhead and underseat | Laptop fit: Dedicated 17-inch laptop pocket | Opening style / security for TSA: TSA 180° lay-flat laptop section; converts to suitcase mode | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Daylite™ Carry-On Travel Pack 35L – Carry-On Backpack |  | Best Carry-On Comfort | Carry-on approval: Sized to meet global airline carry-on restrictions (fits overhead/under seat) | Laptop fit: Padded compartment fits most 16-inch laptops | Opening style / security for TSA: Suitcase-style clamshell (clamshell opening) with lockable zippers | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Sowaovut Travel Laptop Backpack Fits 17.3-inch
If you need a carry-on that holds a large laptop and a few days’ worth of gear, this one fits the bill. We recommend the Sowaovut travel laptop backpack for fits up to 17.3-inch machines. It meets airline carry-on rules and can go in an overhead bin or under a seat. The bag feels light at two pounds and uses sturdy polyester. Inside has a 180-degree opening, compression straps, mesh pockets, and a padded laptop sleeve. There are multiple handles, a water bottle pocket, and a hidden back pocket. It comes with a one-year guarantee and easy customer support.
- Carry-on approval:Flight-approved; fits overhead or under seat (carry-on)
- Laptop fit:Fits up to 17.3-inch laptop
- Opening style / security for TSA:180-degree main compartment opening; rear laptop compartment
- Weight:2.0 lbs
- Material / water resistance:Lightweight sturdy polyester
- Comfort / back & straps:Thick padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel; sponge handles
- Additional Feature:18-inch-suitcase capacity
- Additional Feature:Hidden anti-theft pocket
- Additional Feature:Internal compression bands
Airline-Approved Waterproof Carry-On Travel Backpack
For travelers who need a reliable, airplane-friendly bag, this airline-approved waterproof carry-on backpack is a solid pick. We like its 16.5×11.9×7.9 inch size and light 2 lb weight. It fits 2–3 day trips and holds 4–6 thin tops in the clothes pocket. The laptop sleeve fits up to 15.6 inches. A shoe section and waterproof wet pocket add utility. It opens 180 degrees for quick security checks and slips over trolley handles. Waterproof fabric, padded airflow back, and adjustable straps add comfort. It’s unisex, versatile for work, school, hiking, and short travel. Customer rating is 4.6 out of five.
- Carry-on approval:Airline-approved; fits carry-on and slips over trolley
- Laptop fit:Fits up to 15.6-inch laptop
- Opening style / security for TSA:180-degree fold-flat opening for quick security checks
- Weight:~2.0 lbs
- Material / water resistance:Waterproof material (wet pocket waterproof)
- Comfort / back & straps:Airflow back design with thick multi-panel padding and breathable straps
- Additional Feature:Dedicated shoe compartment
- Additional Feature:Waterproof wet pocket
- Additional Feature:Trolley-handle pass-through
Taygeer Women’s Carry-On Backpack with USB Port
We’d pick the Taygeer when you want a women’s carry-on that’s roomy and built for tech on the go. We like that it converts between handbag and backpack and has padded straps and handles. It’s 16.8 x 11 x 7 inches and light at 1.74 lbs. The 35L interior has three main compartments and nine pockets. A laptop sleeve fits 15.6-inch and an iPad slot fits 12.9-inch. The USB port makes charging on the move easy, but it needs a power bank. TSA-friendly zippers and a luggage strap add travel convenience. Customers rate it highly for organization and quality.
- Carry-on approval:TSA-approved design; compatible with many airlines’ carry-on limits
- Laptop fit:Fits 15.6-inch laptop (also space for 12.9″ iPad)
- Opening style / security for TSA:180-degree zipper lay-flat (TSA-friendly)
- Weight:1.74 lbs
- Material / water resistance:Water-resistant material
- Comfort / back & straps:Padded adjustable straps, two padded handles, luggage strap
- Additional Feature:Built-in USB port
- Additional Feature:Convertible handbag-backpack
- Additional Feature:Luggage strap included
Carry-On 50L TSA-Approved Laptop Travel Backpack
We recommend the Carry-On 50L for travelers who need a TSA-ready bag that still holds 3–5 days of gear. It holds up to 50L and expands for extras. It fits clothes, shoes, jackets and travel items without overstuffing. It fits overhead and underseat on many airlines. The TSA 180° lay-flat laptop section speeds security checks. It converts to a suitcase and has a luggage strap. Inside there’s a 17″ laptop pocket, dual-zip main compartment and pockets for chargers and documents. Bottom shoe compartment keeps dirty items separate. It’s water-repellent, light at 2.2 lbs and backed by reviews and warranty.
- Carry-on approval:TSA/airline compatible; fits overhead and underseat
- Laptop fit:Dedicated 17-inch laptop pocket
- Opening style / security for TSA:TSA 180° lay-flat laptop section; converts to suitcase mode
- Weight:2.2 lbs
- Material / water resistance:Water-repellent material with reinforced stitching
- Comfort / back & straps:Padded straps, unisex design, luggage strap for trolley
- Additional Feature:50L expandable capacity
- Additional Feature:Bottom shoe compartment
- Additional Feature:Built-in USB port
Daylite™ Carry-On Travel Pack 35L – Carry-On Backpack
Frequent travelers who want a lightweight, organized carry-on will like the Daylite 35L. We find it light at 2.03 pounds and sized to fit most overhead bins and under seats. It opens like a suitcase with a clamshell and has lockable anti-theft zippers. The padded, TSA-compliant laptop sleeve fits most 16-inch machines for quick screening. There are multiple pockets and two stretch water bottle holders. The AirScape backpanel feels ventilated and comfortable for long days. Straps tuck away and a trolley pass-through clips to wheeled luggage. It’s durable polyester with anti-tear fabric and a solid customer rating. Rated 4.8
- Carry-on approval:Sized to meet global airline carry-on restrictions (fits overhead/under seat)
- Laptop fit:Padded compartment fits most 16-inch laptops
- Opening style / security for TSA:Suitcase-style clamshell (clamshell opening) with lockable zippers
- Weight:2.03 lbs
- Material / water resistance:Up-spec’d polyester / anti-tear material
- Comfort / back & straps:AirScape breathable backpanel, tuckaway straps and multiple grab handles
- Additional Feature:Lockable anti-theft zippers
- Additional Feature:AirScape ventilated backpanel
- Additional Feature:Tuckaway straps/tote option
Factors to Consider When Choosing Carry-On Backpacks
We should look at a few basic factors when choosing a carry-on backpack. Think about size and airline limits, laptop protection, organization and pockets, and comfort and fit. We’ll go over each point so you can pick the right pack for your trips.
Size And Dimensions
Three measurements matter most when picking a carry-on backpack. We look at height, width, and depth to judge volume. Measure interior capacity in liters or cubic inches so you know what fits. We check pockets and compartments too, because layout affects usable space. Think about the bag’s weight; a lighter shell makes long walks easier and keeps us under weight limits. Also consider how the size affects maneuverability in crowds and on public transit. If you’re less mobile, choose a compact shape that won’t snag or require awkward twisting. Finally, confirm the backpack fits overhead bins or slides under the seat for quick access to essentials. We prefer balanced sizes that carry what we need without bulk. And avoid oversized bags that slow us.
Airline Compatibility
After checking size and compartments, we check how the bag fits airline rules. Make sure the backpack’s dimensions match the airline carry-on limits, usually around 22 x 14 x 9 inches. We double-check both external and packed size. The bag should slide into overhead bins without struggle. It should also fit under the seat when required. Check the airline’s weight limit for carry-ons. Some carriers enforce strict weight rules. Look at how the bag compresses when packed. Adjustable, padded shoulder straps make moving through the airport easier. Straps that tuck away help when stowing the bag. Check any packing restrictions the airline lists. We compare airlines’ rules when we travel with carry-ons a lot often.
Laptop Protection
When we choose a carry-on, protecting our laptop should be a top priority. We look for a padded laptop compartment that fits our device, ideally up to 17.3 inches. The padding should be thick and the sleeve well-cushioned. Shock-absorbent materials matter. They help against drops and bumps while traveling. We check for secure closures like lockable zippers or elastic straps. That prevents accidental falls and reduces theft risk. A TSA-approved compartment lets us pass security without removing the laptop. That saves time and limits handling. In short, pick a backpack with a snug, cushioned, and secure laptop sleeve built from impact-resistant materials. Also consider reinforced stitching and internal padding layers for long flights and rough baggage handling to extend laptop longevity and daily commutes.
Organization And Pockets
Protecting our laptop is one piece of the puzzle. We also need pockets that keep things organized. Multiple compartments let us separate electronics, documents, and toiletries. A padded laptop sleeve speeds up TSA checks and adds protection. External water bottle pockets and quick-access pockets make items easy to reach on the go. Inside, elastic straps and mesh pockets hold chargers and small items so they don’t shift. Some bags give a shoe compartment or a wet pocket for damp clothes. That keeps odors and moisture away from clean items. Good organization saves time at the gate and reduces stress on the trip. When we pick a carry-on backpack, we should favor smart pocket layouts over empty space. We value function over flashy extras always.
Comfort And Fit
Although size and looks matter, comfort and fit decide how long we’ll actually wear a carry-on. We should pick bags with padded, adjustable straps and breathable back panels. A well-structured, ergonomic design helps spread weight across shoulders and hips. That reduces strain and keeps us comfortable on long walks. Check that the backpack fits your torso length. It shouldn’t press on your shoulders or create pressure points. Look for extra padding on shoulder straps and the back panel to cut neck and shoulder fatigue. Multiple handle options and carrying modes give flexibility when we need to switch to a handbag or carry it by hand. Try a loaded bag before you buy to see how it feels. That prevents regrets on the road later.
Material And Durability
We care about comfort, but the bag has to hold up too. We look for high-denier polyester or nylon and water-resistant fabrics. These materials stand up to rough handling and keep the pack from tearing. Reinforced stitching, heavy-duty zippers, and sturdy hardware matter. They keep seams closed and straps attached after many trips. Water-repellent or waterproof coatings protect contents from rain and spills. We prefer lightweight yet strong fabrics so the pack stays light on long walks. Quality materials help the bag keep its shape and avoid frays. That’s important if you use a pack often. Check seams, zipper brands, and fabric denier before you buy. Picking durable materials saves money and hassle over time. We recommend inspecting wear points after every few trips.
Security Features
If we’re serious about travel security, the right features make a big difference. We should pick backpacks with lockable zippers and TSA‑approved lockable zippers so agents can inspect laptops without us opening everything. Anti-theft back pockets and lockable compartments keep passports and cash out of reach on trains and in crowds. A lay-flat or transparent laptop section speeds screening and lowers theft risk while protecting the device from rough handling. RFID‑blocking pockets protect cards and passports from electronic skimming. Water‑repellent materials won’t stop theft but they do prevent water damage to documents and electronics. When we compare packs, we look for solid locks, discreet anti‑theft pockets, clear laptop access, RFID lining, and water resistance as standard security items on our list before buying, sure.
Weight And Portability
After covering security, we need to think about weight and portability. We prefer lighter backpacks around 1.74 to 2 pounds. They cut fatigue on long days. Lightweight bags also help stay within airline weight limits once packed. Choose models made from nylon or polyester. They balance low weight and durability. Look for multiple handles and adjustable straps. They let you switch between shoulder, hand, or crossbody carry. That makes moving through gates and terminals easier. Compact designs fit overhead bins and under seats more easily. Measure size before you fly so you don’t go over limits. Remember weight adds up with your items. A light empty bag gives you more packing freedom and less stress while traveling. We recommend testing it before full trips.