10 Best Backpacks for Flying: Travel Smart and Stylish in 2025

When you're preparing for your next flight in 2024, choosing the right backpack can significantly enhance your travel experience. You want something that balances style with practicality, offering features like lightweight materials and clever organization. From sleek designs to thoughtful compartments, the best options on the market cater to diverse needs, ensuring your essentials are secure and accessible. Curious about which backpacks stand out this year and what factors you should consider before making a choice? Let's explore some top contenders that might just redefine how you travel.

Key Takeaways

• Look for backpacks with dimensions within 22-24 inches long and 14-18 inches wide to comply with airline carry-on regulations.
• Choose a backpack with a capacity of 30-40 liters to efficiently pack clothing, tech, and personal items for short trips.
• Opt for designs that feature multiple compartments and RFID-blocking pockets for enhanced organization and security during travel.
• Select durable, weather-resistant materials to protect your belongings and withstand the rigors of frequent flying.
• Prioritize comfort with padded straps and ergonomic designs to ensure ease during long walks and commutes.

Alienware Horizon Travel Backpack

The Alienware Horizon Travel Backpack is the ideal choice for tech-savvy travelers who need a reliable way to transport their gear. It fits laptops up to 18 inches and boasts robust 840D fabric, ensuring durability. You'll appreciate the quick scan laptop compartment that opens a full 180°, making airport security a breeze. With a luggage handle slip and an easy-to-grab top handle, consolidating your gear is simple.

Organization is key, and this backpack delivers with dedicated sleeves for your laptop and tablet, along with six exterior pockets for quick access to essentials. Plus, the RFID safe top pocket protects your valuables. With padded shoulder straps and a cushioned back, comfort is guaranteed during your travels.

Best For: Tech-savvy travelers seeking a durable and organized backpack for their electronic devices and accessories.

Pros:

• Spacious design accommodates laptops up to 18 inches and includes dedicated sleeves for both a laptop and tablet.
• Quick scan laptop compartment that opens 180° simplifies airport security checks.
• Padded shoulder straps and back provide comfort during long travels.

Cons:

• The 840D fabric may be heavier compared to some lightweight alternatives.
• Limited color options might not appeal to all personal styles.
• Some users may find the backpack bulkier than expected when fully packed.

OGIO 411067 Stratagem, Computer Laptop/MacBook Pro Backpack, Black

For professionals on the go, the OGIO 411067 Stratagem Laptop Backpack stands out with its rear padded laptop compartment, designed to protect your device during flights. Weighing only 3 pounds and measuring 19.5 x 10.5 x 15 inches, it's lightweight yet spacious, offering a capacity of 32.8 liters. You'll appreciate the multiple zippered pockets for organizing gadgets and essentials, along with a padded tablet sleeve for added convenience. The ergonomic padded straps and ultra-padded air mesh back ensure comfort during long travels. Though some users found it challenging to fit larger laptops, the overall design and durability receive high praise. Ideal for quick trips or daily commutes, it balances style and functionality seamlessly.

Best For: Professionals, students, and travelers looking for a stylish and functional backpack to carry laptops and essentials.

Pros:

• Durable and high-quality materials ensure long-lasting use.
• Ergonomic design with padded straps and back for enhanced comfort during long periods of wear.
• Ample storage options with multiple compartments for organizing gadgets and accessories.

Cons:

• Limited capacity for larger laptops; some users report difficulty fitting 17-inch devices.
• Price concerns as some customers feel it may be overpriced.
• Availability issues may arise due to fluctuating stock levels.

TUMI Alpha Brief Pack Laptop Backpack

Designed with the modern professional in mind, the TUMI Alpha Brief Pack Laptop Backpack is an ideal choice for those who frequently travel for work. This spacious business backpack features a padded compartment for your 15-inch laptop and a tablet pocket, ensuring your devices stay safe. Crafted from durable ballistic nylon, it stands up to daily use. You'll appreciate the adjustable padded straps for comfort during long walks, while the fabric sleeve allows easy attachment to carry-on luggage. Though the price tag of $625 may seem high, many users find its quality and design justifies the investment. Just keep in mind it's not TSA-friendly, so you'll need to remove your laptop during security checks.

Best For: Professionals seeking a stylish and functional backpack for frequent travel and commuting.

Pros:

• High-quality, durable ballistic nylon construction ensures long-lasting use.
• Comfortable adjustable padded straps make it suitable for extended wear.
• Well-organized compartments provide easy access to essentials, including a dedicated laptop pocket.

Cons:

• The price of $625 may be considered steep compared to similar options.
• Not TSA-friendly, requiring laptops to be removed during security checks.
• Some users find the laptop compartment access inconvenient due to multiple zippers.

Troubadour Apex Backpack 3.0 – Ultimate Work & Travel Laptop Backpack

If you're a frequent traveler needing a reliable backpack that seamlessly blends work and play, the Troubadour Apex Backpack 3.0 is an excellent choice. It features a padded compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and innovative organization sections for tech accessories and personal items. You'll love the zipped pocket on the shoulder strap, perfect for quick access to your phone or passport. Made from lightweight, waterproof recycled materials, it's designed for durability and comfort, with ergonomic padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel. Plus, its sleek design makes it suitable for professional settings. While some users noted minor issues, like small water bottle holders, the overall versatility and functionality make it a top pick for your travels.

Best For: Frequent travelers seeking a stylish and functional backpack that accommodates work and personal items seamlessly.

Pros:

• Durable and lightweight waterproof fabric made from recycled materials.
• Ergonomic design with padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel for enhanced comfort.
• Multiple organizational pockets for tech accessories and personal items, making it versatile for various uses.

Cons:

• Water bottle holders are too small for larger bottles, limiting hydration options.
• Mobile phone pocket on the shoulder strap can be uncomfortable and hard to access.
• Some users experienced issues with waterproofing and visibility inside due to a dark lining.

TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack for Men & Women

The TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack stands out as the ideal choice for both men and women seeking a reliable travel companion. With dimensions of 17.0 x 14.0 x 8.3 inches, it's perfect for daily commutes and travel adventures. Crafted from durable ballistic nylon, this backpack features heavy-duty zippers and a padded compartment that fits up to a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook. Its modern design includes an Add-A-Bag sleeve for seamless airport navigation and a spacious main compartment, ensuring easy organization with multiple pockets. You'll appreciate the adjustable shoulder straps and padded mesh back panel for comfort, alongside its excellent weight distribution. Customers rave about its quality and organization, making it a top choice for everyday carry.

Best For: The TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack is best for individuals seeking a durable and stylish backpack for daily commutes and travel.

Pros:

• Durable construction with ballistic nylon and heavy-duty zippers for long-lasting use.
• Spacious and organized design featuring multiple pockets and a main compartment that remains accessible.
• Comfortable to carry with adjustable shoulder straps and a padded mesh back panel for optimal weight distribution.

Cons:

• Some users have raised concerns about the thickness of the fabric, which may not meet everyone's expectations.
• Limited personalization options available at the time of purchase.
• Higher price point compared to other brands, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

NOMATIC Navigator RS Pack 15L Premium Backpack

For the modern traveler seeking a blend of style and functionality, the NOMATIC Navigator RS Pack 15L Premium Backpack shines with its sleek design and impressive versatility. This 15L backpack expands to 21L, making it perfect for both daily commutes and weekend getaways. Its water-resistant, anti-theft features, like an RFID lockable pocket and stab-proof material, keep your valuables secure. With a dedicated 16-inch laptop pocket, mesh zipper pockets, and a secret compartment, organization is effortless. The padded straps and back support ensure comfort during your travels. While some users mention strap firmness and zipper depth as areas for improvement, the overall durability and professional appearance make this backpack a worthwhile investment for any traveler.

Best For: The NOMATIC Navigator RS Pack is best for modern travelers looking for a stylish, versatile backpack that offers security and organization for their tech essentials.

Pros:

• Durable materials and reinforced stitching ensure long-lasting use.
• Water-resistant and anti-theft features provide peace of mind for valuables.
• Expandable design allows for increased storage capacity, making it ideal for both daily use and short trips.

Cons:

• Some users find the strap firmness uncomfortable during extended wear.
• Zipper depth may not be sufficient for all users' organizational needs.
• Occasional quality control issues, such as zipper problems, have been reported.

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus (38 Liter Capacity) – Black

Designed with frequent travelers in mind, the Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus boasts a quick-access 15" laptop compartment, making it a top choice for professionals on the go. With a spacious 38-liter capacity, this carry-on backpack meets size restrictions and keeps your essentials organized. You'll appreciate the external-access pockets for your passport, wallet, and water bottle, while internal compression straps help minimize bulk. The sleek design features padded shoulder straps for comfort and water-resistant recycled fabric for durability. Plus, the stylish leather accents elevate its appearance. Whether you're heading on a 5-day trip or a quick weekend getaway, this backpack combines functionality and style, ensuring you travel smart in 2024.

Best For: Frequent travelers and professionals seeking a stylish and functional carry-on backpack that offers excellent organization and comfort.

Pros:

• Spacious 38L capacity meets carry-on size restrictions, ideal for short and long trips.
• Thoughtful design with multiple compartments allows for easy organization of essentials, including a quick-access laptop pocket.
• Durable and stylish materials, including water-resistant recycled fabric and leather accents, enhance both functionality and aesthetics.

Cons:

• Mixed feedback on zipper quality, with some users experiencing issues over time.
• Customer service dissatisfaction reported by some users regarding product quality and authenticity.
• Value for money concerns, as some users feel it may not compare favorably to other brands in the same price range.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Business Laptop Backpack (Fits up to 17.5 Inch Laptop)

Travelpro Platinum Elite Business Laptop Backpack stands out as the perfect choice for busy professionals who need a reliable and stylish solution for travel. With its sleek design and ability to fit laptops up to 17.5 inches, it's tailored for your on-the-go lifestyle. Made from high-density nylon fabric with a Duraguard coating, it resists stains and abrasions, ensuring durability. The padded laptop sleeve and RFID-blocking pocket keep your devices and personal information safe. You'll appreciate the organized compartments for your essentials and the QuickSlip front pocket for easy access to your phone. Weighing just 3.6 lbs, it's comfortable to carry, making it ideal for frequent trips, day excursions, or as a second carry-on.

Best For: Busy professionals seeking a stylish and functional backpack for travel and daily commutes.

Pros:

• High-density nylon fabric with Duraguard coating offers durability and resistance to stains and abrasions.
• Organizational features such as padded laptop and tablet sleeves, RFID-blocking pocket, and multiple compartments enhance convenience.
• Comfortable to carry with adjustable shoulder straps and effective weight distribution for heavy loads.

Cons:

• Concerns regarding zipper durability, with some users suggesting improvements.
• Limited color options, which may not suit everyone's personal style.
• Potentially bulky size when fully loaded, which might be cumbersome for some users.

NIKE Elite Backpack (One Size)

The NIKE Elite Backpack is an excellent choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need a reliable way to transport their gear to the gym or sports events. Available in a sleek Black/Anthracite/Metallic Silver, this one-size bag combines high-quality materials with iconic Nike style. Users rave about its size and functionality, making it perfect for carrying a soccer ball, change of clothes, and hygiene products. While it lacks a dedicated shoe pocket, the large back pocket easily accommodates training shoes, and the side pocket fits long wallets comfortably. Lightweight and comfortable, it excels in versatility, proving ideal for various sports and fitness needs. Many users have returned to this model after trying alternatives that didn't meet their expectations.

Best For: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable and stylish way to carry their sports gear.

Pros:

• High-quality materials ensure durability and longevity.
• Spacious design accommodates various sports equipment and personal items.
• Lightweight and comfortable, making it easy to carry even when fully loaded.

Cons:

• Lacks a dedicated shoe pocket, which might be a drawback for some users.
• Not ideal as a bookbag, limiting its use for school or everyday activities.
• May not fit all personal items comfortably due to its sport-specific design.

EVERKI Onyx Premium Business Executive Laptop Backpack (15.6 Inch, EKP132)

For busy professionals seeking a reliable backpack that balances style and functionality, the EVERKI Onyx Premium Business Executive Laptop Backpack is a top contender. Crafted from durable ballistic nylon and leather, this 15.6-inch backpack combines elegance with practicality. It features a tech compartment with an adjustable laptop pocket, accommodating laptops up to 15.6 inches and tablets. The discreet RFID-blocking pocket secures your sensitive items, while the padded back panel and ergonomic shoulder straps ensure comfort during travel. With a bright orange interior for easy visibility, multifunctional side pockets, and robust materials designed to endure rigorous conditions, this backpack is perfect for frequent flyers. Users rave about its thoughtful design, ample storage, and reliable performance for both work and travel.

Best For: Busy professionals seeking a stylish and functional backpack for work and travel.

Pros:

• Durable construction using ballistic nylon and leather ensures longevity and resistance to wear.
• Ample storage with multiple compartments, including a tech compartment and discreet RFID-blocking pocket for organization and security.
• Comfortable design featuring padded back panel and ergonomic shoulder straps for ease during long travels.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to some basic laptop backpacks, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
• Size might be too large for those looking for a compact or lightweight option for everyday use.
• Limited color options may not appeal to all personal styles or preferences.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Backpacks for Flying

When choosing a backpack for flying, you need to think about several key factors. Size and capacity are crucial for fitting your essentials, while organization features help you access items quickly. Don't forget to consider material durability, comfort, and security features to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Size and Capacity

Considering airline carry-on size restrictions is crucial when choosing a backpack for flying. Most airlines allow bags measuring between 22 to 24 inches in length and 14 to 18 inches in width. To maximize your packing space while adhering to these limits, look for a backpack with a capacity of 30 to 40 liters, which is typically perfect for short trips. This size gives you enough room for clothing, personal items, and a laptop without going over the carry-on limits.

A dedicated laptop compartment is essential, especially for devices up to 17 inches. This feature not only keeps your laptop safe but also allows for quick access during security checks. Additionally, choose a design that incorporates multiple compartments and pockets to help keep your items organized and easily accessible.

Don't forget to consider the weight of the backpack itself. Many airlines impose a weight limit of around 15 to 20 pounds for carry-on luggage, which includes the weight of the bag plus its contents. By keeping these size and capacity factors in mind, you'll ensure a smoother travel experience.

Organization and Accessibility

A well-organized backpack can make all the difference during your travels, ensuring you can quickly access essential items without digging through a jumble of belongings. When selecting a backpack for flying, look for dedicated compartments for your laptop and tablet. Designs that allow for a 180° opening streamline security checks and save you time.

Multiple exterior pockets are key for organizing smaller items like chargers, wallets, and personal accessories. This way, you can retrieve essentials faster, keeping your travel experience smooth. Don't overlook an RFID-blocking pocket; it adds an extra layer of security for sensitive items like credit cards and passports.

Elastic mesh side pockets are another smart feature, perfect for stashing your water bottle or other frequently accessed items, promoting convenience during your journey. Plus, consider a backpack with a bright interior lining. This can significantly improve visibility, making it easier to locate items in low-light conditions.

Material and Durability

Choosing the right material for your backpack directly affects its durability and performance during travel. Opt for ballistic nylon or high-density fabrics, as these offer superior resistance to wear and tear compared to standard polyester. You'll want weather-resistant materials too; those with Duraguard coatings or waterproof fabrics can safeguard your belongings from moisture and environmental damage.

Look for backpacks with robust construction, featuring heavy-duty zippers and reinforced stitching. This enhances longevity, making your pack suitable for frequent flyers and rigorous use. Lightweight yet durable materials are essential, helping you maintain a manageable weight while ensuring your backpack can withstand the rigors of airport handling and daily commutes.

Additionally, consider features like anti-scratch linings and EVA foam cushioning. These add extra protection for your valuable tech devices, ensuring they remain safe during your travels. By prioritizing the right materials and construction, you can choose a backpack that not only meets your travel needs but also withstands the challenges of flying. With the right backpack, you can travel smart and stylish in 2024, knowing that your gear is protected and ready for your adventures.

Comfort and Fit

When it comes to flying, comfort and fit are crucial for a pleasant travel experience. Look for padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel to enhance comfort, especially when you're carrying heavier loads. Adjustable straps are also essential; they let you achieve a personalized fit, helping to distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your back.

Consider a design that allows your backpack to stand independently, whether it's empty or fully loaded. This feature enhances usability, making it easier to access your belongings during flights. Ergonomic designs are a must as well; they provide excellent weight distribution, enabling you to carry the backpack for extended periods without discomfort.

Security Features

Security features play a vital role in selecting the right backpack for flying. When you're traveling, protecting your personal information is crucial, so look for backpacks with RFID-blocking pockets. These pockets shield your credit cards and passports from identity theft, giving you peace of mind.

Additionally, consider a backpack with TSA-friendly designs. These allow you to access your laptop and tablet without needing to remove them at security checkpoints, making your journey smoother. Weather-resistant materials are also essential; they'll keep your belongings safe from spills or unexpected rain during transit.

Opt for bags with multiple secure compartments. This organization helps you easily access valuables while reducing the risk of theft. Lastly, ensure your backpack has durable zippers and robust construction. Airport handling can be rough, and you want your bag to withstand the rigors of frequent travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Size Backpacks Are Allowed as Carry-Ons for Flights?

Most airlines allow carry-on backpacks measuring up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Always check your airline's specific guidelines to avoid surprises at the gate. You want to travel hassle-free, so stay informed!

Can Backpacks Fit Under the Airplane Seat?

Yes, most backpacks fit under the airplane seat, as long as they're within the airline's size restrictions. Just make sure to check your specific airline's guidelines to avoid any last-minute issues at the gate.

Are There Restrictions on Backpack Materials for Air Travel?

There aren't specific restrictions on backpack materials for air travel, but you should avoid items that pose safety risks. Lightweight, durable fabrics are best to ensure comfort and compliance with airline regulations. Always check before flying.

How to Clean and Maintain a Travel Backpack?

To clean and maintain your travel backpack, remove dirt with a damp cloth, wash removable parts in cold water, and let it air dry. Regularly check for wear and tear to ensure it's always travel-ready.

Can I Use a Backpack as My Personal Item on Flights?

Yes, you can use a backpack as your personal item on flights. Just make sure it fits the airline's size requirements. Pack efficiently, and you'll have everything you need close at hand during your journey.

Conclusion

When it comes to flying in 2024, choosing the right backpack can elevate your travel experience. With options like the Alienware Horizon and TUMI Alpha packs, you can find a stylish companion that meets your needs. Keep factors like durability, organization, and security in mind to ensure a smooth journey. Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning a vacation, investing in one of these top backpacks will make traveling smarter and more enjoyable. Happy travels!