8 Best 35L Travel Bags to Buy in 2025

This TSA-friendly powerhouse redefines what a carry-on backpack can be—blending 40L of smart storage with airline-approved dimensions and a laptop compartment that opens 180° for seamless security checks. With its sustainable recycled fabric and YKK zippers, it’s built for eco-conscious travelers who refuse to sacrifice durability. Whether you’re sprinting through a terminal or boarding a red-eye, this bag tackles the chaos of modern travel with precision and flair.

In real-world use, the spacious main compartment unzips like a suitcase, making packing and unpacking a breeze—especially when you’re sharing a hotel room or rushing to meet a deadline. The 3D padded back panel and contoured straps deliver outstanding comfort, even when fully loaded with a week’s worth of clothes and a 17.3” laptop. It handles overhead bins with ease and slips neatly under the seat, but the slightly bulky frame can feel tight in ultra-narrow economy seats. Still, the dual top and side handles and luggage pass-through strap make transitions smooth.

Compared to the minimalist Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, the tomtoc offers far more organization and tech-friendly features, but lacks the artistic flair that makes each Del Dia bag a conversation starter. It’s ideal for frequent flyers, digital nomads, and business travelers who value structure, sustainability, and security over whimsy. For those willing to trade a little personality for practical excellence, this bag delivers more features and refined engineering than pricier competitors.

Don’t let the ultra-low price tag fool you—this 35L duffel from Vuudh packs a surprising punch with a dedicated shoe compartment, waterproof 600D polyester shell, and sleek sporty profile. It’s the perfect no-frills companion for weekend getaways, gym runs, or beach trips where you need organized storage without the bulk. For budget-focused travelers tired of flimsy bags that fall apart after two trips, this one delivers serious value with zero frills.

On the road, the separate shoe pocket keeps dirty soles away from clean clothes, and the smooth metal zippers glide without snagging—even when the bag is stuffed. Measuring 18.5 x 9.8 x 11.8 inches, it fits most airline personal item limits and slides easily under seats. The adjustable shoulder strap is functional but not heavily padded, so comfort dips on longer walks. It lacks a laptop sleeve, so it’s not ideal for business travel, but for gym-to-airport transitions, it’s nimble, reliable, and odor-resistant thanks to ventilated shoe storage.

When stacked against the Carhartt 35L duffel, the Vuudh is lighter and more travel-focused, but can’t match the rugged 1200D denier build or abrasion-resistant base. It’s best suited for casual travelers, students, and fitness enthusiasts who want a clean, functional bag at a fraction of the cost. While it doesn’t offer the tech features of pricier packs, it outperforms expectations for under $15—making it the clear budget king.

When toughness is non-negotiable, the Carhartt 35L Duffel stands tall with its 1200 denier polyester shell and Duravax abrasion-resistant base—a combo built to survive job sites, muddy trails, and overpacked overhead bins. This isn’t just a travel bag; it’s a workhorse disguised as a carry-on, offering TSA-friendly sizing without compromising ruggedness. For travelers who prioritize long-term durability over flashy features, this duffel is a no-brainer.

In testing, the reinforced base shrugged off concrete floors, gravel, and airport carousels, while the Rain Defender coating kept contents dry during surprise downpours. The large main compartment swallows clothes, boots, and gear, and the interior zippered pockets add just enough organization for small essentials. The padded shoulder strap and multiple handles make carrying comfortable, though it lacks a laptop sleeve—so it’s not ideal for tech-heavy trips. Unlike softer duffels, it holds its shape even when half-full, but the stiff material makes it harder to squeeze into tight overhead bins.

Compared to the BAGSMART 35L three-in-one, the Carhartt is less versatile in carry style (no backpack mode) but more resilient under extreme conditions. It’s perfect for outdoor workers, military personnel, and rugged travelers who need a bombproof bag that won’t quit. While it skips modern perks like USB ports or shoe compartments, it offers unmatched durability at its price—beating most in its class when toughness is the metric.

The Taygeer 35L backpack is a breath of fresh air for women seeking a stylish, functional, and flight-ready bag that doesn’t look like a generic tech pack. With its cute aesthetic, built-in USB port, and shoe compartment, it’s designed for style-savvy travelers who want convenience without sacrificing charm. The 180-degree laptop compartment makes security checks a breeze, and the lightweight 0.79 kg frame ensures it won’t weigh you down.

During real-world use, the nine internal pockets keep everything from pens to power banks neatly sorted, and the water-resistant fabric handled light rain with ease. The padded handles and adjustable straps make it comfortable as both a backpack and handbag, and the luggage pass-through adds airport convenience. However, the USB port requires an external power bank (not included), and the shoe compartment is on the smaller side, fitting only compact sneakers. It’s not the most rugged option, but for weekend trips, college commutes, or casual travel, it shines.

Compared to the ETRONIK 35L duffel, the Taygeer offers more feminine styling and better pocket organization, but lacks a dedicated wet pocket for swimsuits or towels. It’s ideal for women students, young professionals, and gift shoppers looking for a versatile, cute, and practical carry-on. While not the most technical pack, it strikes a sweet balance between form and function—offering more personality and polish than utilitarian rivals.

The ETRONIK 35L duffel is a masterclass in smart separation, featuring a fully waterproof PVC-lined wet pocket that keeps damp swimsuits, towels, or sweaty gear isolated from dry clothes—a game-changer for gym-goers and beach travelers. Paired with a ventilated shoe compartment and built-in USB port, it’s a highly functional hybrid that bridges the gap between gym bag and carry-on. For women who hate the moldy gym bag smell, this one delivers real hygiene innovation.

In practice, the 35L interior easily fits a weekend’s worth of clothes, a towel, shoes, and accessories, while the external pockets keep keys, phone, and umbrella within reach. The USB port works with any power bank, and the luggage strap slides neatly over suitcase handles for hands-free transit. The shoulder strap is padded but not contoured, so long carries can dig in. Unlike the Maelstrom backpack, it lacks a detachable crossbody, but its wet-dry separation is unmatched in this price range.

When compared to the BAGSMART 35L, the ETRONIK offers better moisture control but fewer carry modes—it’s duffel-only, no backpack option. It’s perfect for women who juggle gym, travel, and weekend trips and need a clean, organized, and hygienic solution. While it’s not the most rugged, it excels where it matters most—keeping wet and dry items apart—outperforming most in its category on functionality.

The Maelstrom 35L backpack is a shape-shifting marvel, featuring a detachable crossbody bag that transforms your travel setup on the fly—ideal for explorers who want one bag for transit and another for city strolling. With a dedicated shoe compartment, anti-theft back pocket, and airline-approved sizing, it’s built for versatility and security. The waterproof build and padded laptop sleeve add peace of mind, making it a smart pick for digital nomads and urban adventurers.

In real-world testing, the crossbody bag detaches cleanly and works as a standalone urban sling, perfect for dinner runs or market visits. The main backpack fits under seats and in overhead bins, and the luggage pass-through keeps it stable on the move. The elastic side pockets hold water bottles securely, but the shoe compartment is snug—best for flats or compact sneakers. While not as rugged as Carhartt, it’s lightweight, functional, and surprisingly sleek.

Compared to the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, the Maelstrom offers more practical features and organization, but lacks the artistic uniqueness of the Del Dia line. It’s best for travelers who value adaptability over aesthetics, especially those who hate carrying multiple bags. For the price, it delivers exceptional versatility—offering more functionality and transformation than similarly priced rivals.

The BAGSMART 35L duffel is a triple-threat performer, offering a true three-in-one design that converts seamlessly from backpack to duffel to shoulder bag—thanks to hidden, adjustable straps that disappear when not in use. With a water-resistant build, 13.3” laptop sleeve, and breathable shoe compartment, it’s a highly adaptable workhorse for travelers who refuse to be boxed into one carry style. The thickened shoulder pads and double zippers add luxury touches rarely seen at this price.

On the go, the side water bottle pocket fits a 32oz bottle snugly, and the inner zipper pocket keeps valuables secure. The hidden backpack straps make the duffel look clean when carried by hand, and the luggage pass-through works flawlessly. It’s slightly bulkier than flat-profile backpacks, so it can be tight in narrow overhead bins. Compared to the Taygeer, it offers more carry options and better comfort, but less feminine styling.

Ideal for frequent travelers, gym-goers, and commuters who want maximum flexibility in a single bag, it bridges the gap between function and form. While it lacks a USB port or wet pocket, it excels in versatility and comfort—outperforming most in its class when adaptability is key.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is more than a backpack—it’s a wearable work of art, with each bag uniquely assembled from random color-blocked fabric scraps, making no two packs alike. Handmade in the Philippines with ethical labor practices, it’s a bold statement for travelers who value sustainability and self-expression. The tuckable straps and hip belt let it convert into a sleek duffel, and the 15” padded laptop sleeve keeps tech safe—proving style and function can coexist.

In use, the single large main compartment encourages minimalist packing, and the three grab handles (top, side, bottom) make lifting and loading effortless. The fleece-lined laptop sleeve adds a touch of luxury, but the lack of interior organization can be a hurdle for pack rats. It’s lightweight and durable, but the color-blocked fabric isn’t fully waterproof, so heavy rain requires a cover. Compared to the tomtoc 40L, it offers less storage and tech features, but more soul and storytelling power.

Perfect for creative travelers, ethical shoppers, and minimalists who want a bag that sparks conversations, it’s a luxury investment in individuality and sustainability. While it’s the most expensive option, it delivers unmatched uniqueness and purpose—beating all others when originality is the priority.