9 Best Carry-On Travel Bags for 2025

This airline-approved powerhouse redefines what a carry-on backpack should be—spacious, smart, and built for real travelers. With a precise 18 × 14 × 8 inch footprint, it slips effortlessly under seats or into overhead bins, meeting strict standards from Spirit to JetBlue. The 40L capacity is no gimmick: four full compartments and abundant pockets let you segregate electronics, clothes, and toiletries like a pro, while the included packing cubes and dedicated wet pocket elevate organization to a science. Whether you’re dodging layover chaos or rushing through TSA, this backpack turns travel friction into flow.

In real-world testing, the LOVEVOOK shines across flights, trains, and city streets. It handled a week’s worth of gear with ease, and the tear-resistant, water-resistant fabric shrugged off rain and baggage cart scrapes. The padded back panel and adjustable straps distribute weight well, though heavy loads still press on shoulders after miles—no surprise for a personal item bag. It breezed through security thanks to its suitcase-style clamshell opening, and side pockets held an umbrella and water bottle securely. However, the lack of a USB port or headphone pass-through feels like a missed opportunity in this tech-forward era.

Compared to the Taygeer and ETRONIK models, the LOVEVOOK strikes a balance between organization and durability, outperforming budget picks without chasing gimmicks. It’s the ideal pick for travelers who prioritize packing efficiency and airline compliance over on-the-go charging. While the MATEIN offers convertibility, this one wins with its comprehensive accessory bundle and superior internal layout—delivering broader functionality at a competitive cost.

Step into expansive comfort with a carry-on that refuses to compromise—this 50L expandable beast is a long-haul traveler’s dream. When unzipped, it grows from a standard 38L to a cavernous 50L, offering rare flexibility for those ‘just one more thing’ moments. The air-mesh ventilated back panel and chest strap work in harmony to reduce shoulder strain, making it a standout for背着-heavy for extended walks through terminals or urban hikes. With a 19.6 × 12.9 × 9 inch expanded profile, it still fits overhead bins on most airlines, a feat few expandable bags achieve without squeezing.

Real-world use confirms its long-trip dominance: it swallowed a week’s clothing, tech, and toiletries with room to spare. The 90–180° clamshell opening made security checks a breeze—everything visible and accessible, no digging. The built-in USB charging port (power bank not included) is a thoughtful touch, letting you stay connected during layovers. However, the fabric, while water-resistant, feels thinner than competitors like LOVEVOOK, showing light scuff marks after minimal abrasion. And despite its size, the lack of a dedicated shoe compartment is a notable omission for hygiene-conscious packers.

Against the MATEIN and Taygeer, this backpack trades sleekness for sheer volume, making it better suited for travelers who need space over style. It outshines the Taygeer in capacity and comfort but doesn’t match the LOVEVOOK’s organizational depth. For those prioritizing extended trips without checking a bag, this model offers unmatched utility—delivering more bang for the buck than premium hardshells.

Meet the stealth minimalist of travel bags—light, foldable, and shockingly capable for its $16 price tag. At 20 × 13.3 × 8.7 inches, this duffel slips into carry-on specs for United, Southwest, and Alaska, making it a budget-savvy traveler’s secret weapon. Weighing next to nothing, it’s ideal for last-minute getaways or as a secondary bag for shopping sprees abroad. The 40L capacity holds a surprising amount—three days of clothes, a jacket, and essentials—with a single spacious compartment and a front pouch for passports or boarding passes.

In action, the Narwey proves that simplicity can win. It folded flat in my suitcase when not in use and popped open instantly at destination points. The sturdy zippers and tear-resistant fabric held up well over multiple trips, though the single main compartment made organization a chore without separate pouches. The luggage sleeve fits snugly over rolling bags, and the detachable shoulder strap adds versatility. But without internal pockets or a wet compartment, it’s best for those who pack light or use their own cubes. It’s not built for tech lovers or the hyper-organized, but for pure utility, it’s unbeatable at this price.

Stacked against the BAGSMART and ETRONIK, the Narwey lacks premium features but dominates on portability and cost. It won’t replace a high-end carry-on, but as a foldable companion, it outperforms pricier duffels in compressibility. For travelers who value lightweight practicality over bells and whistles, this is the ultimate no-frills solution—offering far more value than its price suggests.

This tech-integrated tote is tailor-made for the connected traveler who refuses to power down mid-journey. The built-in USB charging port and internal cable routing let you charge on the move—just plug in your power bank and go. At 16.8 × 11 × 7 inches, it’s compact yet smartly designed, with three main compartments and nine pockets ensuring everything from pens to shoes has a home. The 15.6-inch laptop sleeve adds business-ready polish, while the 180° lay-flat zipper speeds up security checks—no more frantic digging for TSA.

On the road, the Taygeer impressed with its lightweight agility and gender-inclusive comfort. The padded handles and adjustable straps made transitions from backpack to handbag seamless, ideal for nurses, students, or weekenders hopping between train and Airbnb. The water-resistant fabric handled drizzle without issue, and the side bottle pocket stayed secure. However, the charging cable is fixed inside, limiting flexibility, and the shoe pouch is shallow—best for flats, not sneakers. It’s not the roomiest for long trips, but for 3–4 days, it’s perfectly capable.

Versus the ETRONIK and LOVEVOOK, the Taygeer leans into tech and versatility, offering a hybrid identity as school bag, nurse pack, or travel companion. It doesn’t match the LOVEVOOK’s packing depth or the ETRONIK’s shoe ventilation, but its charging integration and sleek pink finish make it a top pick for digital nomads and students. For those who value on-the-go power and style in one, it delivers more innovation than bags twice its price.

This featherlight fashion statement proves you don’t need bulk to travel smart. At just 24L and 16.5 × 7.5 × 11.8 inches, it’s the slimmest personal item here—perfect for under-seat storage and petite travelers. Crafted from soft yet durable Taslon, it feels luxurious to the touch while resisting water and wear. The PVC-lined wet pocket is a game-changer for gym-goers, cleanly isolating damp towels or swimsuits. And with dual handles and a luggage sleeve, it transitions smoothly from airport dash to yoga studio.

In testing, the BAGSMART excelled as a 1–2 day minimalist’s dream. It fit a change of clothes, toiletries, and a tablet with ease, and the exterior zip pocket kept boarding passes and keys within reach. The slim profile made it easy to stow, though it couldn’t fit bulkier items like boots or multiple outfits. It’s not built for long trips, but as a personal item or gym duffel, it’s nearly flawless. The lack of a shoe compartment or USB port keeps it simple—some may see this as limitation, others as elegance.

Compared to the Narwey and ETRONIK, it’s lighter and more stylish, but less spacious. It doesn’t compete with 40L+ bags, but for travelers under 5’5” or those taking short trips, it’s the most ergonomically tuned option. Where the Narwey wins on price and the ETRONIK on features, this one wins on fit, feel, and feminine design—offering a rare blend of grace and function.

This quilted queen of organization blends luxury aesthetics with serious travel function—especially for moms, nurses, and shoe lovers. The shoe compartment with flat bottom keeps soles separate from clothes, while the free $15 toiletry bag adds instant value. At 19 × 9 × 13.58 inches, it fits carry-on specs and under seats, with a trolley sleeve for hands-free rolling. The waterproof PVC wet pocket handles damp gear like a champ, and multiple internal pockets keep everything from diapers to IDs in place.

Field use revealed its versatility across roles: it worked as a hospital bag, gym duffel, and weekend carry-on without missing a beat. The quilted exterior looks upscale, and the zippered back pocket kept my phone secure. However, the shoulder strap isn’t padded, making shoulder carry less comfortable over distance. And while the shoe compartment is roomy, it lacks ventilation—potential for odor if used for sweaty sneakers. Still, for travelers who need modular storage and multi-role utility, it’s a standout.

Against the ETRONIK, it shares the shoe compartment but lacks USB charging and ventilation. Yet it wins with its included toiletry bag and premium look. For travelers who want fashion, function, and shoe separation, it outclasses basic duffels—offering more thoughtful design than similarly priced competitors.

This all-in-one athlete’s ally is engineered for the traveler who moves from gym to gate without slowing down. With a ventilated shoe compartment and 35L smart layout, it keeps odors at bay and gear organized. The 2-vent airflow system in the bottom shoe pocket is a rare and welcome touch, preventing mustiness after workouts. Add the external USB port and waterproof wet pocket, and you’ve got a bag that’s as tech-savvy as it is practical. At 18 × 8.7 × 13.5 inches, it fits carry-on limits and slides over luggage handles with ease.

In real use, the ETRONIK proved uniquely adaptable—perfect for weekend trips, swim meets, or post-workout flights. The side bottle pocket, front zip, and internal compression straps kept contents secure, even when tossed in overhead bins. The USB port worked seamlessly with my power bank, and the wet pocket handled a damp swimsuit without leaking. However, the backpack straps are thin—fine for short carries, but not ideal for long treks. And while it’s water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof in heavy rain.

Versus the LOVEVOOK duffel, it trades quilted elegance for performance-driven design. It beats the BAGSMART in capacity and tech, and surpasses the Narwey in organization. For the active traveler needing shoe separation, charging, and wet-dry split, it’s the most complete package—delivering gym-ready utility with travel-smart features.

This chameleon of carry-ons transforms from backpack to briefcase in seconds—thanks to hideaway padded straps that zip neatly into the back panel. At 19 × 13 × 8 inches and 45L expandable, it fits airline limits while offering serious packing power. The air-mesh ventilated back and sternum strap reduce fatigue, and four external compression straps stabilize bulky loads. It’s a favorite among business travelers and cruise-goers who want one bag that does it all.

In testing, the convertible design shone—I used it as a backpack through airports, then switched to briefcase mode for hotel check-in. The luggage strap slid securely over my suitcase, and the front compartment kept essentials handy. The internal compression straps kept clothes tight, minimizing shifting. But the expandable zipper feels delicate, and the water resistance is moderate—fine for drizzle, not downpours. It’s not as tech-rich as the Taygeer, nor as spacious as the 50L expandable, but its flexibility is unmatched.

Compared to the Travel Backpack B0B81Y6668, it sacrifices capacity for design versatility. It doesn’t include packing cubes like LOVEVOOK, but its transformative function sets it apart. For travelers who want one bag for flight, city, and meeting room, it’s the ultimate hybrid—offering smarter transitions than most in its class.

This no-nonsense roller is the gold standard for reliable, upright carry-ons—built for those who want wheels, not straps. Its 21.7-inch scratch-resistant shell withstands baggage handlers’ worst, while the four multi-directional spinner wheels glide like butter across terminals. The expandable design adds 25% more space, perfect for souvenir-heavy returns. Inside, a zippered divider and three pockets keep things tidy—no more digging for socks.

In real use, it excelled in durability and ease of movement. It handled cobblestone streets and crowded airports with poise, and the telescoping handle locked at multiple heights. The hardshell protected contents from crushing, unlike soft bags. But it’s not for under-seat storage—this is a bin-only bag. And while it’s organized, it lacks tech features like USB ports or laptop sleeves.

Versus the backpacks, it’s less flexible for mobility but superior for protection and rolling ease. It doesn’t compete with personal items, but as a primary carry-on roller, it outperforms soft bags in defense and maneuverability—offering the most durable, stress-free rolling experience in the lineup.