When you’re packing for your next weekend trip, have you ever thought about whether you should use a backpack or a suitcase? Well, why not both? It’s totally possible if you have the best backpack for carry on luggage. Unlike regular backpacks, it doesn’t lack the proper features to pack for a trip successfully. Plus, it’s not as bulky as other suitcases, and you don’t have limitations in how you can carry them. In short, this bag allows you to access the main compartment with ease like a suitcase but gives you the freedom and ease of use of a regular backpack. To find which one is suitable for you and your needs, we’ve put together a list of the best luggage backpack carry on to help you decide!
Table of contents
- Victorinox VX Sport Wheeled Backpack
- JanSport Driver 8 Rolling Backpack
- Matein Wheeled Backpack
- EVERKI Atlas Wheeled Backpack
- Osprey Ozone Wheeled Carry-On
- Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible International Carry-On
- SKYMOVE Wheeled Rolling Backpack
- Olympia Cascade Outdoor Upright Carry-On Backpack
- High Sierra XBT Business Rolling Backpack
- Wenger Luggage Synergy
- Samsonite Wheeled Backpack with Organizational Pockets
- AMBOR Waterproof Wheeled Backpack
- Targus Compact Rolling Backpack for Business
- How To Choose The Best Luggage Backpack Carry On
- Can you take a backpack and suitcase as a carry-on?
- Can a 45L backpack be a carry-on?
- Is it better to travel with a backpack or suitcase?
Victorinox VX Sport Wheeled Backpack
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Is your priority having a heavy-duty backpack for carry on luggage? If so, then look no further than the Victorinox VX Sport Wheeled Backpack. This product is so long-lasting that you can literally take it on any adventure. It’s made from durable nylon materials and has inline wheels that can easily roll over rough terrain. Oh, the zippers are smooth and made from quality materials as well.
Like some carry-on backpack luggage, this bag offers you a laptop sleeve with an anti-scratch lining that can hold a 16-inch laptop. There’s also a 10-inch pocket that can hold your tablet or other medium-sized gadgets. Other features worth mentioning include external zippered pockets, mesh side pockets for water bottles, and side compression straps.
- What We Love:
- A sturdy and heavy-duty bag that’s all about versatile functionality.
- Pros:
- Incredibly sturdy
- Comes with dedicated compartments for gadgets
- Plenty of extra pockets
- Smooth zippers
- Comfy handle
- Cons:
- The wheels can be noisy
JanSport Driver 8 Rolling Backpack
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JanSport backpacks are known because of their durability and quality. If you’re after the best luggage backpack carry on, you should look at the JanSport Driver 8 Rolling Backpack. This item features a padded sleeve that can hold a 15-inch laptop, making working on the road much easier. The tuckaway shoulder straps also make it easy to turn this bag from a backpack into wheeled luggage.
On the inside, you’ll be able to find 2 main compartments. With a total capacity of 36L, it’s perfect for weekend or light travelers. There are also side pockets that are ideal for a water bottle or umbrella. Meanwhile, the 80mm inline skate wheels make this bag compact. Made from 600D polyester and 420D nylon, this product is incredibly durable. The best thing is that if you compare this bag with other carry on backpack luggage, it’s not that expensive!
- What We Love:
- A mid-range option that’s amazingly durable and suitable for light travelers.
- Pros:
- Lightweight
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Spacious compartments
- Side pockets
- Durable material
- Cons:
- When fully packed, this bag can get pretty thick and big
Matein Wheeled Backpack
11
Everyone knows how hard it actually is to find a decent waterproof backpack and luggage carry on nowadays, as most are water-resistant. Lucky for us, there’s the Matein Wheeled Backpack. It’s an affordable option that’s ideal for travel. The bottom panel is waterproof, and the corner guards will protect this bag from wear. For such an affordable price, this bag is surprisingly durable.
Inside the bag, you’ll find a laptop pouch that can hold a 15.6-inch laptop. Meanwhile, the main compartment can hold 36L of clothes, books, and other stuff. The smaller front compartment has various pockets to keep items organized and accessible. When you’re not using it as a backpack, you can tuck the backpack straps and handle away in a zippered pocket.
- What We Love:
- The best pick for those who want eye-catching, waterproof carry on backpack luggage.
- Pros:
- Waterproof
- Pretty durable for its price
- Affordable
- Stunning design
- The backpack straps and handle can be tucked away
- Cons:
- The wheels aren’t the best
EVERKI Atlas Wheeled Backpack
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It only makes sense for you to get something convenient to carry around instead of packing your stuff in huge, checked luggage for a short business trip. Enter the EVERKI Atlas Wheeled Backpack, which is probably the best backpack for carry on luggage that you can get for business trips. It’s lightweight, well-organized, and has a professional look.
This bag also comes with top-notch organization and dedicated sleeves for your gadgets, including a laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17.3-inch laptop. If you’re not carrying one, fret not. You can remove the laptop pouch to make extra room for your clothes or other items. Moreover, the main compartment unzips fully into a clamshell opening for easy packing and accessibility. We also love how seamless it is to turn this versatile backpack into a wheeled suitcase and vice versa. If you’re wondering, yes, the backpack straps can be tucked away in the back flap when you’re not using them.
- What We Love:
- A versatile carry-on that’s cherished by business travelers.
- Pros:
- The backpack straps can be tucked away
- Tons of compartments for your gadgets
- Lightweight
- Has a professional look
- Removable laptop sleeve
- Cons:
- A bit too small for some people
Osprey Ozone Wheeled Carry-On
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Compact and lightweight, the Osprey Ozone Wheeled Carry-On is also worth considering. Compared to some luggage backpack carry on, its wheels are smaller, which means it’s easier and less bulky to carry around. At 42L, this could easily be your go-to piece of luggage with wheels and backpack straps for those long weekends or week-long trips.
When it comes to the material, this carry-on luggage is made from durable, abrasion-resistant nylon and has a lightweight aluminum frame and an ergonomic handle. There are also dual compression straps, a rear zipped pocket for dirty clothes, and 2 easy-access front pockets. Another thing that we love is the clamshell opening that allows you to grab your items like you would in a suitcase.
- What We Love:
- It allows you to pack as much as possible without hitting airline weight limits.
- Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Spacious main compartment
- Durable, abrasion-resistant nylon material
- Plenty of pockets
- Ergonomic handle
- Cons:
- Lacks color options
Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible International Carry-On
8
The Eagle Creek Expanse Convertible International Carry-On is one of the most popular Eagle Creek convertible backpacks you can get out there. Considered the best backpack for carry-on luggage, this item comes with oversized treaded wheels with bumper protection that guarantees a steady roll no matter what surface you pull it over. Meanwhile, the durable and water-resistant ripstop fabric means your clothes and other belongings won’t get wet, even when it’s raining.
Another thing that makes people love this luggage backpack carry on is because it meets most international airline carry-on standards. So, you won’t have to worry about putting this bag in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. On top of that, the spacious interior allows you to fit whatever you want to bring for a quick getaway. The compression straps promise to keep everything in place, while the external lash points allow you to add additional gear.
- What We Love:
- This is a well-built, feature-packed backpack that’s ready to follow you wherever you go.
- Pros:
- Oversized treaded wheels
- Water-resistant
- Huge main compartment
- Compression straps
- Smooth zippers
- Cons:
- Doesn’t have many pockets
SKYMOVE Wheeled Rolling Backpack
7
A cheap backpack and luggage carry on don’t have to be expensive. Just take a look at the SKYMOVE Wheeled Rolling Backpack! This bag is proof that you can get an affordable luggage backpack carry on that doesn’t sacrifice quality and features. It’s made from 1200D oxford fabric, which is pretty durable and can last for a long time. Unlike other options out there, the handle of this item can’t be completely hidden. Instead, it’s more similar to a suitcase handle.
On the outside, there are some handy pockets that you can use to keep your small essentials. Meanwhile, the main compartment is as spacious as your regular suitcase. It comes with a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit devices up to 14 inches. By the way, if you’re inseparable from your laptop, you should also look at the best crossbody bags for laptops and the best weekender bags with laptop sleeves!
- What We Love:
- This is the perfect pick for those who want a cheap backpack and luggage carry on without sacrificing features and comfort.
- Pros:
- Cheap
- Pretty durable for its price
- Spacious main compartment
- Lots of extra pockets
- Ventilated back panel
- Cons:
- The handle is too short for those who are taller than 6 feet
Olympia Cascade Outdoor Upright Carry-On Backpack
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Made from jacquard polyester, the Olympia Cascade Outdoor Upright Carry-On Backpack is another durable carry on backpack luggage that travelers would love to have. Sturdy and having good tear resistance, this bag opens up like a suitcase, allowing easy packing. The main compartment is super-duper spacious, with tie-down straps that’ll keep everything perfectly in place. There’s also a large pocket that’s ideal for smaller items you want to keep separate.
The thing that’s great about this luggage backpack carry on is that it has expandable capacity. Not many carry on backpack luggage has this feature, so we really appreciate that this bag offer this amazing innovation. What’s more, this bag is equipped with several external compartments, zippered pockets, compression straps, and grab handles. One handles even doubles as a daisy chain attachment point, allowing you to attach anything you want to it with a carabiner.
- What We Love:
- An all-rounder that can cater to all adventurous travelers’ needs.
- Pros:
- Spacious main compartment
- Tie-down straps
- Expandable design
- Many extra pockets
- Reasonably priced
- Cons:
- The jacquard polyester material is durable, but not the best
High Sierra XBT Business Rolling Backpack
5
High Sierra might not be the most popular luggage brand, but it’s definitely no stranger to making high-quality bags, and the High Sierra XBT Business Rolling Backpack is no exception. Made from ripstop and tech-weave Duralite fabric, this luggage backpack carry on comes with an additional water-resistant coating that’ll protect your stuff in rainy weather. However, it would be best if you kept in mind that the zippers aren’t exactly water-resistant.
Seen as the best backpack for carry on luggage by some, this bag features corner-mounted wheels and a double-barrel telescoping handle. But what really makes people fancy this product is that it has several compartments that allow for easy organization. There’s a dedicated laptop sleeve that can easily fit 17-inch devices, as well as a smaller tablet sleeve. Additionally, there’s a pocket that’s lined with micro-fleece to protect your phone or aviator sunglasses from scratches!
- What We Love:
- This bag has the perfect balance of function, comfort, and style.
- Pros:
- Water-resistant coating
- Dedicated compartments for gadgets
- Micro-fleece lined pocket for phone and sunglasses
- Well-constructed
- Lightweight
- Cons:
- A bit more expensive than some carry on backpack luggage
Wenger Luggage Synergy
4
When you have a demanding schedule and your life is full of adventure, you’ll need a no-fuss, no-drama bag that delivers performance and style. That said, the Wenger Luggage Synergy does exactly that. This bag comes with a protective compartment for laptops and tablets of up to 16 inches, as well as an essentials organizer to keep your power cords, chargers, and other items secure and tidy.
However, that’s not all! There’s also a front pocket that allows you to access your passport and phone within seconds and mesh pockets on the sides ideal for water bottles. Moreover, the easy-glide wheels allow you to pull this bag along behind you with little to zero effort. Apart from that, we also love the ergonomic handle! Considering its price tag and everything it offers, this bag will be your bestie when it comes to traveling.
- What We Love:
- The perfect rolling backpack for travelers that prioritize convenience.
- Pros:
- Multiple compartments
- Easy-glide wheels
- Ergonomic handle
- Sturdy and well-built
- Available in 3 sizes
- Cons:
- Lookswise, it’s not the best
Samsonite Wheeled Backpack with Organizational Pockets
3
If you’ve read our list of the best Samsonite luggage with a USB port and Samsonite luggage 5-piece set, you know how awesome this brand is. Thus, there’s no way we don’t have a Samsonite product on this list. That said, let us show you the Samsonite Wheeled Backpack with Organizational Pockets. Same with other Samsonite bags, this one is built to last with the highest quality fabric to ensure that it can last for years to come. It’s made with ripstop fabric that’s resistant to tears and pulls, making it one of the most durable carry on backpack luggage out there.
Apart from durability, this luggage backpack carry on is also made with style and comfort in mind. Thanks to its compact size, you can use this bag as a carry-on for most airlines. As the name implies, there are some organizational pockets for small electronics and can accommodate up to 17 inches of laptop. Best of all, it’s affordable!
- What We Love:
- A great budget item that’s produced by one of the best luggage brands on Earth.
- Pros:
- Affordable
- Compact and lightweight
- Plenty of organizational pockets
- Durable material
- Comes with a laptop compartment
- Cons:
- The zippers can be better
AMBOR Waterproof Wheeled Backpack
2
Another awesome budget luggage backpack carry on is the AMBOR Waterproof Wheeled Backpack. You can easily carry this bag on your back with the sturdy and adjustable straps that can be zipped into your own pocket when not in use. Plus, it fits under the seat or in the overhead compartment of most airlines. Similar to some carry on backpack luggage, there’s a dedicated laptop sleeve that can accommodate a 15-inch laptop. There’s also another extra compartment for books, tablets, and other small gadgets.
At the front of the bag, you can find a quick-access compartment that’s perfect for storing important travel documents like your passport and plane ticket. Furthermore, the in-line skate wheels are corner mounted for stability and provide a smoother ride. Made from durable anti-tear polyester with a special waterproof coating, you can rest assured that all of your belongings will remain dry at all times.
- What We Love:
- Designed with comfort and practicality in mind, this bag makes traveling with a full load a breeze.
- Pros:
- Reasonably priced
- Plenty of compartments
- Roomy
- Waterproof
- Compact and lghtweight
- Cons:
- The wheels can be better
Targus Compact Rolling Backpack for Business
1
Taking the number one spot is the Targus Compact Rolling Backpack for Business. This bag is a great option for those of you looking for the best backpack for carry on luggage that’s affordable but doesn’t skimp on quality. This luggage backpack carry on is made from durable polyester with a neoprene grab handle. It also comes with thick padding in the back panel, promising you nothing but comfort.
Thanks to the in-line skate wheels and retractable wheel handle, you can roll this bag around everywhere. Furthermore, there’s a dedicated laptop compartment that fits 16-inch devices and a smaller tablet sleeve. In addition to the roomy main compartment also features a small, scratch-free zipped pocket, a front compartment with an organizer panel, a zipped side pocket, and a stretch water bottle pocket.
- What We Love:
- Arguably the most convenient option for travelers who want to travel light and save some money.
- Pros:
- Cheap price tag
- Tons of pockets
- Padded back panel
- Elastic straps for clothes
- Soft-touch, retractable handle
- Cons:
- Might be too small for some
How To Choose The Best Luggage Backpack Carry On
Before you decide which one to get, it’ll be better to know some important criteria that can help you pick the right bag. Those criteria are listed below!
Size
For some people, it’s hard not to overpack. However, since you’re going to use your bag as a carry-on, you have to ensure that its dimensions and weight are within carry-on restrictions. Thankfully, all of the options on this list aren’t bigger than the standard carry-on size!
Handle height
If the bag that you want comes with wheels, you have to consider the handle height. If you’re tall, do you need to crouch down to use the handle? Make sure the height of the handle is at a good height so you can comfortably maneuver your backpack without resorting to bad posture.
Accessibility
Another feature to think about when it comes to the best backpack for carry on luggage is accessibility. You have to check whether the one you want has plenty of easy-access pockets or not. Plus, you should also see where the other compartments are located and whether they can hold heavier items. Smart bag design goes a long way in terms of convenience and ease of use.
Cost
As with other bags, luggage backpack carry on can cost anywhere from 50USD to several hundred dollars. Does it mean that the cheaper ones suck? Not at all! In fact, you can get some truly amazing options for less than 100USD, but they’re probably not going to be bags from well-known brands. If you want to go with a high-end brand, you’ll have to spend a lot more. However, there’s no doubt that you’ll get a premium bag that you can use for years to come.
Can you take a backpack and suitcase as a carry-on?
Normally, if the backpack can get under the seat in front of you, it’ll be considered a carry-on. Note that carry-on bags can be up to 22x14x9 inches, so if your backpack or suitcase is bigger than that, it’s probably isn’t going in the overhead bin either.
Can a 45L backpack be a carry-on?
Yes, a 45L backpack is still allowed to be a carry-on. Those larger than 45L can’t be carried on. Thus, check the size of your backpack properly!
Is it better to travel with a backpack or suitcase?
If you fly to your destination and stay in the same hotel for the duration of your trip, a suitcase is probably the most convenient option. You can put your backpack or suitcase on a provided luggage rack, leave it there, and enjoy the day. If you plan to move around from place to place during your trip, a backpack will better suit you. But if you want the best of both worlds and something versatile, you can get the luggage backpack carry on we just showed you!
