When it comes to air travel, having the right gear can make or break your experience. Among travelers, the search for the best backpack for air travel has led to countless innovations in design and functionality. In 2024, an ideal travel backpack should be lightweight, spacious, and packed with features like easy access compartments and durable materials. Below, you will find our top 10 picks from Amazon, suited for varying needs and preferences.
Top 10 Backpacks for Air Travel
1. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack has quickly risen to popularity among frequent fliers in 2024. With a capacity of 45L, it can easily fit under the airline seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment. This backpack features a USB charging port, making it convenient for carrying power banks and charging devices on-the-go.
One of its outstanding features is the anti-theft pocket located at the back to keep valuables like passports and credit cards secure. Made from water-resistant polyester, this backpack is durable and able to withstand the rigors of travel. Furthermore, the padded shoulder straps and back panel ensure comfort while carrying heavy loads over long distances.
Overall, the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is an excellent blend of functionality and usability—the best backpack for air travel for students, business professionals, or leisure travelers alike.
- LOTS OF STORAGE SPACE & POCKETS: One separate laptop compartment hold 15.6 Inch Laptop as well as 15 Inch,14 Inch and 13 Inch Laptop. One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities,tech electronics accessories. Front compartment with many pockets, pen pockets and key fob hook, makes your items organized and easier to find
- COMFY & STURDY: Comfortable soft padded back design with thick but soft multi-panel ventilated padding, gives you maximum back support. Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps relieve the stress of shoulder. Foam padded top handle for a long time carry on
- FUNCTIONAL & SAFE: A luggage strap allows backpack fit on luggage/suitcase, slide over the luggage upright handle tube for easier carrying. With a hidden anti theft pocket on the back protect your valuable items from thieves. Well made for international airplane travel and day trip as a travel gift for men
- USB PORT DESIGN: With built in USB charger outside and built in charging cable inside,this usb backpack offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking. It's a great tech gift for him from wife, daughter and son. Please noted that this backpack doesn't power itself, usb charging port only offers an easy access to charge
- DURABLE MATERIAL & SOLID: Made of Water Resistant and Durable Polyester Fabric with metal zippers. Ensure a secure & long-lasting usage everyday & weekend.Serve you well as professional office work bag,slim USB charging bagpack, back to college backpacks
2. eBags Pro Slim Laptop Backpack
The eBags Pro Slim Laptop Backpack is designed for organizational enthusiasts who love to keep their belongings in order. Equipped with a separate padded compartment for laptops up to 17 inches, this backpack also features multiple organizational pockets. Each pocket has been thoughtfully designed for easy access—perfect for the airport’s security checks.
This bag also includes a pass-through sleeve, which allows for easy attachment to a suitcase, making it ideal for those who frequently travel with rolling luggage. Furthermore, the bag’s durable ballistic nylon material ensures longevity, so it holds up well after years of use.
Travelers appreciate this backpack for its sleek design and professional appearance, making it a perfect choice for both business and leisure trips.
- Overall dimensions: 16.5" × 12.75" × 6.5"
- Linear dimensions: 35.8"
- Weight: 3 lbs
- Padded laptop sleeve fits up to 15"
- 1.5" shorter and 2" slimmer than the Pro Slim Laptop Backpack
3. Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
The Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack is known for its versatility. It meets the carry-on size requirements for most airlines, so you won’t have to worry about gate-checking your bag. Its spacious main compartment opens like a suitcase, offering easy packing and unpacking capabilities.
Equipped with a harness and hip belt, this backpack can easily transition from carry-on to hiking companion when you arrive at your destination. The stowaway design means you can tuck away the hip belt and harness, giving it a sleek appearance as a traditional backpack.
As an outdoor brand, Osprey doesn’t skimp on comfort or durability, making the Farpoint 40 one of the best backpacks for air travel, especially for adventure-seeking travelers.
- Large panel zip access to main compartment with dual front compression straps - 40L total volume
- Meets carry-on size restrictions for most airlines (22h x 14w x 9d in at 3.48 lbs.)
- Lockable zipper access to main compartment and quick access zippered pocket to padded laptop & tablet sleeve (fits up to most 16" laptops)
- The harness and hipbelt stow away for safekeeping while checked and deploy quickly for any path or trail
- Two front mesh bottle pockets (fits most water bottles) and an external zip toiletry pocket.
4. Hynes Eagle 40L Travel Backpack
The Hynes Eagle 40L Travel Backpack combines functionality with style, making it an attractive option for air travelers. Its stylish and modern design is complemented by an organized interior, with multiple compartments perfectly suited for separating clothing from electronics.
This backpack also features a detachable daypack that can be used separately for short day trips. Its ergonomic design includes padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel, making it comfortable during long travels.
Travelers are consistently impressed with the capacity and organizational options this backpack provides, reinforcing its reputation as one of the best backpacks for air travel.
- 【Flight Approved Size】made of water repellent polyester and 210D polyester lining, the carry on bag fits the allowed maximum size of most IATA flights and can also fit in the overhead compartment, 40L carry on backpack Approx. Dimensions: 20.1 x 13.4 x 9.8 inches/ 51 x 34 x 25 cm; Approx. Weight: 2.2 lbs/ 1 kg
- 【Pass Through Luggage Strap】carry on backpack is designed with an added back trolley strap for more convenient, you can quicker attach the travel cabin backpack to the luggage handle and move more easily around the airport or wherever you go; 4 compression straps help eliminate extra backpack space, making the carry on bag more compact, it can also relieve the pressure on the zippers, so if travel with a partially packed bag, you can preventing the contents from sloshing around
- 【Wet Compartment】travel backpack for men and women features a new PEVA-lined waterproof compartment instead of a mesh zip compartment, provides a dedicated place to put away your wet clothes or toiletry items, from damp towel to beach flip flops
- 【Padded Sleeve for 15.6-inch】The middle zip compartment is built with a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 15.6-inch and a padded tablet sleeve that fits up to a 10.5-inch ; backpack for travelling designed with front zip compartment can organize you last minutes accessories, tickets or brochure, inside with 3 slip pockets, keep essetials in place and at the ready, main compartment with fasten buckle straps which is roomy enough to pack travel belongings, from organizer cubes to toiletry bag
- 【Comfortable to Carry】hide-away contoured travel weekend backpack straps are well padded with air mesh, can carry it comfortably as a carry on backpack or also can easy convert it into a travel duffel bag; provide 4 carrying options for travelers' multiple alternatives; there is 1 sternum strap that adjusts lengthwise and slides up and down the shoulder straps, and 1 adjustable waist strap designs for stabilization and carry comfort
5. Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack
The Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack is another top contender in the air travel backpack category. Not only does it boast a sleek professional appearance, but this backpack also features dedicated compartments for your laptop and tablet, ensuring the safety of your electronics.
For those who are concerned about convenience, the back panel is designed with a trolley pass-through to attach to your suitcase. This makes navigating airports much easier, allowing you to focus on your travel experience rather than juggling bags.
Its durable exterior, combined with the padded compartments, makes it particularly suitable for urban travelers or business professionals on the move.
- Patented checkpoint-friendly design
- Extra-large main compartment (10.5" x 4" x 14")
- Works with 16" Laptops and under. The laptop bags come in a range of sizes to fit laptops from 12” to 17”, with many models accommodating a range of sizes due to their multi-fit cradle. The bags fit 15” and 16” laptops. Please note that these measurements are based on your laptop’s screen size. The laptop bags also come with a dedicated tablet compartment to fit devices up to 12.9”. This prevents your tablet or laptop from becoming damaged in transit
- Adjustable padded shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry.Integrated trolley strap for easier travel.Laptop Compartment:10.43 inch x 15.23 inch (W x H)
- Dimension:13.50 x 18.25 x 8.75(W x H x D).Capacity:26 Liters
6. SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack
The SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack stands out due to its unique TSA-friendly feature, which allows you to unzip the backpack and lay it flat for screening at airport security. This innovative design not only makes the boarding process easier but also reduces the likelihood of forgetting items at security checkpoints.
This backpack can accommodate laptops up to 17 inches and offers multiple pockets for organization, coupled with a durable, weather-resistant exterior. With padded shoulder straps and a comfortable back panel, you can carry this bag with ease, whether you’re navigating an airport terminal or hiking to your next destination.
Travelers rave about this model for its utility and the stress-free experience it brings while traveling.
- Tech Backpack: Pack all your essentials in the 1900 ScanSmart 17-inch laptop backpack specifically designed to speed you through airport security by allowing laptop-in-case scanning
- Secure Storage: This laptop backpack for men and women features an enhanced laptop compartment with zippered access for a 17-inch laptop and a padded TabletSafe tablet pocket
- Effortless Organization: Computer bag includes a main compartment with an accordion file holder and a RFID-protected organizer compartment with a removable key/fob clip and multiple divider pockets
- Multiple Pockets: Add-a-bag trolley strap slides over telescopic handles, 1 front and 2 side quick-access pocket secure essentials, and 2 mesh side pockets accommodate water bottles and umbrellas
- Comfortable To Carry: Lay-flat laptop bag includes ergonomically contoured, padded shoulder straps, adjustable compression straps, airflow back padding, and a reinforced, molded top handle
7. Nomatic Travel Pack
The Nomatic Travel Pack is an essential companion for tech-oriented travelers. With a clean design, it’s equipped with a variety of compartments for tech gadgets, ensuring that your smartphone, tablets, and laptops stay organized. With up to 20L capacity expandable to 24L, this backpack is flexible enough for short trips or longer travel durations.
A notable feature is its RFID-protected pocket, keeping your credit cards and personal information secure from identity theft—a thoughtful detail for any travel backpack. The durable materials and waterproof zippers further enhance the usefulness of this backpack for air travel.
Travelers often highlight its organization and ease of access as prime reasons to consider this the best backpack for air travel.
- Travel Laptop Backpack: This multifunctional bag also serves as a carry on backpack with its luggage strap, making it an ideal travel backpack carry on. It effortlessly transitions from a briefcase to a backpack by simply popping out the straps
- Expandable Capacity Anti Theft Backpack with Laptop Compartment: This tech backpack transforms from a sleek 20-liter work backpack to a spacious 30-liter large backpack, providing full access to the interior for all your essentials
- Stay Organized: Featuring a range of pockets, including an RFID lockable security pocket, mesh zipper pockets, a dedicated notebook pocket, and a 16-inch laptop pocket, this is a great computer backpack for women and men looking to stay organized
- Versatile Everyday Bag: In need of a stylish business backpack, a functional backpack, or a versatile computer bag? This aesthetic backpack is your all-in-one solution for everyday use
- Best Tavel Backpack: Pack the most functional travel pack ever! On top of being a functional personal item bag, this mens backpack has a sleek minimalist design and gives you confidence for your life on the move. THIS ITEM IS NOT INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER
8. North Face Recon Backpack
The North Face Recon Backpack is an adventure-ready bag that is perfect for travelers looking for functionality without sacrificing style. With a capacity of 30L, it features a dedicated laptop compartment that fits laptops up to 15 inches, while additional compartments separate books, clothing, and other essential items.
This backpack boasts comfortable FlexVent suspension and a padded mesh back panel, ensuring comfort even on long treks through airports or city streets. Its durable construction means you can trust this backpack to handle the wear and tear of your busy travel lifestyle.
Known for its rugged design and performance, the North Face Recon stands out as a strong candidate for the air travel backpack category.
- GO-TO CLASSIC. The iconic Recon Laptop Backpack excels as a day pack with its large mesh storage pocket and daisy-chain attachment points.
- FLEX VENT TECHNOLOGY. The updated FlexVent suspension system has articulated shoulder straps, a rounded back panel and stitch lines for comfort, and soft-touch chemise fabric, all certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
- TOTAL ORGANIZATION. Two external mesh water bottle pockets easily double as multi-use pockets while an external, fleece-lined pocket holds sunglasses, keys and electronics.
- ALWAYS READY. A huge main compartment holds all your books and binders needed for a day at work and contains a dedicated laptop sleeve to protect your computer from bumps and falls.
- TECH SPECS. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under. Dim: 11.6"x7.5"x19.3" (29.5cm x 19.1cm x 49cm). Laptop Sleeve: 18.9"x11" (48cm x 27.9cm). Vol: 30L. This item is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
9. Timbuk2 Spire Backpack
The Timbuk2 Spire Backpack perfectly marries style with functionality. This stylish backpack can easily transition from work to travel with a dedicated laptop compartment. Its weather-resistant fabric ensures that your electronics stay protected, while the multiple internal pockets allow for organized packing.
The bag also includes a bike-light attachment for the cyclists out there, transforming this backpack into a great option for commuting as well as travel. With its sleek appearance, it’s perfect for the modern traveler looking for versatility.
For many travelers, the chic design and practicality make the Timbuk2 Spire a popular choice among the best backpack for air travel.
- THE SPIRE PACK: A top-loading laptop backpack built for the urban commute, no matter the weather
- KEEP IT ORGANIZED: Internal slip pocket fits up to a 15" laptop; Front pocket with organization panel and zip pocket; Side stretch pocket for water bottle or umbrella; Front daisy chain fits standard U-lock; Napoleon pocket under front flap;
- CLEVER EXTRAS: Daisy chain on front and water bottle pocket; Water resistant
- MATERIALS & FIT: Padded back panel for extra comfort on your back; Padded shoulder straps with beer tiki bottle opener; Removable sternum strap
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: Timbuk2 stands behind the legendary quality and craftsmanship of all our products; We also embrace the wild, twisty ways of life; If there is a defect in the materials or workmanship we will repair the bag at our discretion for the lifetime of the product
10. Fjallraven Rucksack 28
The Fjallraven Rucksack 28 offers a minimalist design that’s as stylish as it is functional. It’s made from durable G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco fabric, making it resistant to wear and tear. The large main compartment can comfortably fit your essentials, while the small front pocket is ideal for keeping smaller items at hand.
Not only does this backpack showcase a classic aesthetic, but its padded shoulder straps and ergonomic design ensure comfort during prolonged use. Whether you’re flying across the globe or hiking a local trail, this bag’s adaptability makes it a desirable option for travelers.
Given its reputation and unique style, the Fjallraven Rucksack stands tall as one of the best backpacks for air travel.
- Fabric: Canvas
- Side and top handles, 15" laptop compartment
- Length: 11.75in / 30cm, Height: 19in / 48cm, Depth: 5.5in / 14cm
- Zip exterior pockets, interior zip and mesh pockets
- Shoulder straps
Buying Guide for the Best Backpack for Air Travel
When selecting the best backpack for air travel in 2024, keep the following factors in mind:
1. Size and Capacity
Airline regulations vary regarding carry-on sizes, but a backpack with a capacity of 40-45 liters is typically a safe bet. Ensure your backpack meets the airline’s carry-on dimensions to avoid unexpected fees or hassles.
2. Organization Features
A well-organized backpack makes traveling much more manageable, especially during security checks. Look for compartments for electronic devices, mesh pockets for chargers, and easy-access external pockets for items like snacks or travel documents.
3. Comfort
Ensure the backpack has padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel for long journeys. The weight distribution is crucial for traveling long distances, especially in airports where you may have to walk a lot.
4. Durability
Choose a backpack made from high-quality, water-resistant materials to withstand various travel conditions. Features like reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers are indicators of a backpack’s durability.
5. Security Features
While traveling, you want to feel assured that your belongings are safe. Look for backpacks with anti-theft features, such as lockable zippers and RFID protection.
6. Style
Your travel backpack should reflect your personal style. There are numerous options available, ranging from sporty to professional, ensuring you find something that fits your aesthetic while being practical.
7. Price
Finally, set a budget before shopping. While it’s tempting to go for the cheaper option, investing in quality often pays off in durability and performance.
Conclusion
In 2024, the need for the best backpack for air travel remains crucial, as travelers seek comfort, style, and functionality in their luggage. From the efficient organization of the eBags Pro Slim to the adaptability of the Osprey Farpoint 40, the options discussed in this article cater to various travel needs. Keep your preferences and requirements in mind, and find the backpack that not only enhances your travel experience but also fits your lifestyle.
With this comprehensive review and buying guide, you are now well-equipped to make an informed decision on the best backpack for your next air travel adventure!