A carry-on backpack is a great option for storing all your essentials. These modern pieces of travel are extremely practical and comfortable. But, the best part is that they can be used in any location other than an aeroplane.

Our top picks are designed to be versatile and adaptable to a range of terrains and conditions. Some can withstand the most severe wear and tear while others are made with an elegant minimalism, perfect for business trips and city breaks.

We’ve compiled a list of the top carry-on backpacks for 2021. Each one is more thoughtfully thought out.

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L

Peak Design’s unique approach to design and functionality is hard to resist, even in a saturated market. Peak Design’s innovative approach to functionality and design began 9 years ago when they created the Capture Camera Clip. It is still prominently displayed in the Travel Backpack 45L.

This backpack is weatherproof and waterproof in 400D nylon canvas. It also features an expanding mechanism, clever shoulder straps that can be tucked away, and ultralight padded foam throughout. It is strong, handsome, versatile, and incredibly adaptable.

It can expand from a 35L cabin bag to a 45L check-in luggage and compress down to a 30L daypack. This allows for creative versatility. I can’t forget the magnetic closures and strategically placed access points that add style and functionality. There are many zippered, soft-lined, soft-lined and hidden pockets that can be used for packing.

I’ve now taken the Peak Design Travel Backpack on a couple of national/international flights and countless road trips, and it’s proved to be an invaluable companion. It’s a great choice for travel photographers when paired with the brand’s Camera Cubes.

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus

The Bellroy pack is a great choice for weekend warriors and professionals who travel.

The Transport Backpack Plus is lightweight and compact. However, it can withstand harsher environments and has weather resistance.

The bag is made of durable, recycled materials and has a premium, certified leather accents. Its space-saving design with carefully engineered pockets and compartments takes on-the-go organization to the next level. It features a 15-inch laptop compartment with sleeves and pockets and external access for documents, wallets, and water bottles.

The contents of the bag are securely held in place by internal compression straps. A strap, hideaway waist belt and a removable sternum buckle distribute the load effectively. The bag’s contoured back panel and breathable contours make it comfortable to use all day.

Troubadour Explorer Aero Backpack

This backpack can be carried on with you and is made from lightweight, waterproof recycled fabrics. It features a large tube-shaped compartment that allows for the storage of all your essentials. You can easily carry the bag around all day thanks to the breathable back panel, ergonomic memory foam shoulder straps, and a top zippered pocket to quickly access your documents.

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

Are you unable to decide between a backpack and a suitcase? It doesn’t matter if you decide between a backpack and a suitcase. Samsonite’s Silhouette 17 Backpack is a modern, sleek design that offers both the best and worst of both worlds. It is ideal for modern travellers.

Briggs & Riley Convertible Duffle Backpack

This lightweight backpack by Briggs & Riley combines style and practicality. Constructed of tough, water-resistant 1680D ballistic nylon, the Convertible Duffle Backpack looks sleek and durable.

NOMATIC 40L Travel Bag

The NOMATIC 40L is durable, weatherproof and packed with innovative features. It’s no surprise that travellers all over the globe are in love with this bag. This bag can be used for up to seven days and is ideal for travel. It has a patented strap system to convert from backpack to duffle in seconds.

But probably what makes the NOMATIC backpack one of the best carry-on travel bags around is its unrivalled compartmentalization. You can pack more with less space by having separate pockets for your shoes, clothes and gadgets. A laundry bag that can be hung keeps your dirty clothes separated while you travel, and the TSA-ready flap allows you to breeze through security checks without having to remove your tech.

Topo Designs Travel Bag Roller

It’s both a backpack and a rolling suitcase. This bag is a smart choice for multitaskers as well as one-bag adventurers. Its 1000D nylon exterior is complemented by numerous pockets and handles that allow you to carry it in many different ways.

WANDRD HexAD Access Duffle Backpack

This bag is organized and designed to protect your gear whether you are on an outdoor adventure, a trip to Europe or a photography trip. The HEXAD Access Duffel Backpack is a carry-on-sized backpack that combines dedicated camera compartments and separate areas to store clothes and accessories.

Aer Travel Pack 2

It’s lightweight, durable, and elegantly understated. This bag is great for urban exploration and a companion for long trips. It would look great in the office!

Tortuga Outbreaker

The smart, adjustable suspension system keeps you comfortable while in transit.

Eastpak Tranzpack Cnnct Accent Grey

It is made from 100% water-resistant polyester and comes in a subdued urban grey with bright red accents. This carry-on-size case can be used in multiple ways thanks to gripping handles with tuck-away, padded shoulder straps. A protective coating also adds to its durability.

GORUCK GR3

This beast has 45L storage, a tough 1000D nylon Cordura construction and a bombproof laptop pocket. This bag can carry over 400 pounds, and the extra padding on the shoulder straps and removable belt make it extremely practical. You will also find silent YKK zippers and a MOLLE bottom attachment. The bag has an integrated hydration system.

Large Expandable Knack Pack

The Large Expandable Knack Pack combines the functionality of an everyday bag with the convenience of a backpack. The Large Expandable Knack Pack is lightweight and stylish. It can hold 3-4 days’ worth of clothes in a compact carry-on size.