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How To Choose the Right Sized Travel Bag for Any Trip

Finding a properly sized travel bag is a key part of any successful trip, from a simple weekender to a month-long adventure.

Getting Started

There’s a travel bag out there for everyone, and we’re here to help you find it. The process can be a little overwhelming, but narrowing down what needs to fit into your pack is a great place to start. In this post, we’re going to be talking about different bag sizes and their uses. By the time we’re done, you’ll know just what size pack you need (or at least be headed in the right direction).

We’ll cover everything from 1L slings that keep your pockets free all the way up to 60L outdoor adventure packs for carrying the whole shebang. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pack for daily commutes or are ready to jump off the deep end into backpacking across Asia, we’re psyched to help you get started.

Before we get into it, there are a few essential things to consider. When we mention liters, we mean it in terms of volume, not dimensions. Two different 40L travel bags may not fit the same amount of gear. This is highly dependent on the built-in organization, available compartments, and shapes that the pack implements. We notice the most significant differences between different brands, but sometimes even two travel backpacks made by the same company will differ in packability. Ensuring all your gear will fit inside is one of many critical pieces to the intricate puzzle of picking your next travel bag.

Here at Pack Hacker, we have a ton of travel gear reviews, guides, and how-to videos that will help get you started, continue your journey, or find your magnum opus.

Okay—now let’s get into the fun stuff.

Pocket Dump Sling (1L)

Starting off on the small end of the spectrum is the 1L sling, or what we like to call the Pocket Dump Sling. It might seem tiny, but we promise, 1L is bigger than you think! It’s small enough for you to wear it all day without getting uncomfortable, but it will fit just about anything you usually store in your pockets (hence the name).

Use it to carry your daily essentials: a cell phone, keys, wallet, headphones, and even a small point-and-shoot camera or snack. We also love using these packs while traveling to store a passport, earbuds, travel wallet, and other travel documents like a boarding pass. Pocket dump slings are great at the airport because instead of removing all the items from your pockets and slowing up the line, everything is already in the sling. Just throw it on the conveyor belt and continue through the checkpoint.

From this category, we recommend the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Hip Pack . It’s pretty versatile, as you can wear it as a sling or on your waist, and it packs away nicely for compact storage when not in use.

The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Hip Pack all packed up.

We’ve also found that a sling of this size is great for walks around a new town, city, or nature area while abroad. You can throw your essentials (and maybe a friend or partner’s essentials too, if you’re feeling generous), head out on the town, and keep your hands and pockets free the whole time.

Pockets Plus (2.5L)

If you love slings like we do but crave a little more space, try something around the 2.5L size. We call them Pockets Plus because they fit all the items we usually carry in our pockets, plus a few extra goodies.

This size is excellent for daily use and while traveling because it offers a little more flexibility in what you can bring along with you. Similar to a Pocket Dump Sling, you can leave your pockets empty when you head through a TSA checkpoint. You will also have additional space to bring entertainment like a Nintendo Switch or a small tablet, a couple of snacks, a battery bank, and a few cables to keep everything charged up while you’re on the move. We’ve even been able to fit a packable rain jacket and set of wet wipes, so long as they have a small enough form factor!

The Aer City Sling 2 all packed up.

We love the Aer City Sling 2 , which comes in right at 2.5L. It’s one of the more comfortable carries that we’ve tested, and it has ample space for stowing your gear. We also love its low-profile design, especially while traveling to ensure that we don’t look too touristy. While on the plane, have quick access to entertainment like a Nintendo Switch without digging around below the seat. You can even hook it onto the seat in front of you using a HeroClip for easier access. You’d better stow it during turbulence, though!

Messenger Bag (13L)

If you need to bring along more gear than a basic sling allows, we recommend you grab a messenger bag between 9L and 13L. These packs are great for when you don’t necessarily want the weight of a backpack, but your list of essential items is a little larger, like on short hikes or day trips to nearby towns abroad. If you are set on carrying a sling, there’s also a travel bag subset that's a cross between a messenger bag and a sling.

A 13L messenger bag is a good pick for commuters who want something that won’t take up much space on trains or buses. It’s also a low-profile option if you’re exploring a new city and need more space but don’t want a full travel backpack. These bags are also great for cycle commuting because they aren’t too heavy and allow access to your gear while in transit.

There are many different styles to go with, so it's essential to think about which features are important for your usage needs. A pack with a large main compartment will hold the most gear but lacks the organization that some crave. A pack with more organization may not have as much room for larger items, but each item has a home.

The Peak Design Everyday Messenger all packed up.

In the 13L range, we like the Peak Design Everyday Messenger pack, as it can fit all of our daily go-to gear inside the large main compartment. It does have some organizational capabilities with the included FlexFold dividers, but in our experience, the dividers aren’t the most durable. As we said, it all depends on your specific usage needs.

Daily Bag (15L)

Some people don’t like slings and would prefer to wear a backpack while commuting to work or exploring a new city, which is just fine by us. For a travel bag you can wear every day and carry most of your work essentials, we recommend something between 15L and 18L. This should give you enough space to bring all the gear you need, plus a little bit extra.

Although just a minor step-up from the 13L messenger, we’ve found that those two to five liters can make all the difference. Not only can a daily bag carry everything you need for work, but it will also be versatile enough for extracurriculars, too. So much room for activities!

Hit the gym after work, stop at the coffee shop for a drink and to get your side-hustle on, or even head out for a hike somewhere on the way home. The biggest draw of a daily bag over the smaller packs listed above is the ability to do an abundance of different activities without stopping home to drop off and grab more gear.

The Tom Bihn Luminary 15 all packed up.

We recommend the Tom Bihn Luminary 15 , Able Carry Thirteen Daybag , and Away Small Zip Backpack in this range. Each of these packs will be able to carry a laptop, water bottle, packable jacket, and even a few extra goodies like a tech pouch, phone, wallet, or change of clothes. They all keep a pretty low profile, so you won't feel like you're lugging around a giant travel bag.

Personal Item Backpack (20L)

Shifting from a daily bag to a personal item bag is another small jump, but we’ve found that a 20L travel backpack has just enough space for a weekend trip, or longer if you pack smart. We like this size travel bag because it will likely fit under the seat in front of you on a flight, which means no pesky carry-on fees or worrying about your bag getting lost, which is a big plus. They're great for heading straight to the airport from the office, as they can handle your work needs with your travel accessories added in, too.

It's important to note that it's ultimately up to your airline to decide whether or not a travel bag is allowed to be used as a personal item, but we’ve found that most packs around 20L will fit the bill. It's always a good idea to check the specific rules and dimensions of who you'll be flying with before you start packing, though. There isn't much worse than getting to the airport to find out that your personal item has evolved into a carry-on and that you're stuck with the bill.

After you've stowed your laptop and other travel essentials, you should have room for a packing cube or two. This is great for organization and ensuring that you have all the items that you need for the duration of your trip. If you pack minimally and strategically, you can make a personal item backpack work for week-long trips, too!

The Bellroy Tokyo Totepack all packed up.

In this range, we recommend the Bellroy Tokyo Totepack . It has an open main compartment that is great for getting the most out of the volume. Toss in a few packing cubes and a tech pouch, and you're ready to take on the weekend!

Daypack/Travel Backpack Hybrid (30L)

We love the daypack and travel backpack combo because it enables you to pivot between everyday activities and traveling with ease. We like travel bags around 30L for this purpose because anything larger will be a bit too big for daily use, and anything smaller won't have enough gusto for longer trips. Finding that happy medium is vital for a comfortable journey without sacrificing any essential gear along the way.

For us, a good daypack and travel backpack combo needs to fit a laptop, tablet, toiletry kit, several small or medium-sized packing cubes, a tech pouch, and other various odds and ends. However, your packing list may vary depending on how you like to travel.

We keep an eye out for ways to compress or expand a hybrid travel bag because this enables it to be more versatile. Compression straps and compression zippers are both great features that will allow you to adjust the size depending on your needs at the time, but not all brands include these options.

When you arrive at your destination, take out packing cubes and other items that don't need to be with you at all times. Then you can compress the pack (if it has that feature), fill it with what you need for the day, and head out into adventure mode. When it's time to head home, load the gear and cubes back up with any souvenirs you picked up along the way and go to the airport. If you've picked up too many presents for your family back home, a travel backpack with attachment points is great because you can clip additional pouches and accessories on the outside of the pack.

The Knack Pack Series 2 all packed up.

The Knack Pack Series 2 is a pack with a lot of features for more efficient travel. Uncompressed, the pack is 35L, a great size for traveling, but it sizes down to a handy 24L for daily usage. It has a ton of internal organization, ensuring that every item will have a home and nothing will get lost on the journey. Both of these features make it a great contender to get you to and from your destination stress-free, which means you will be able to enjoy your trip more.

Travel Backpack (40L to 45L)

We're now on the edge of what can be considered a carry-on bag, and we have to admit, we’re loving every minute of it. Most 40L packs are about as large as you’ll be able to bring onto the plane, but adding a few more liters is worth it if you can (and want to) check a travel bag.

These packs are the standard size for one-bag travelers who will be away from home for extended periods of time. Suppose you will be spending a few months bouncing around different countries in Europe, a year exploring what Asia has to offer, or country hopping through Central and South America. In that case, this size travel bag has your name all over it!

Now that we’ve made our way to the larger end of the size spectrum, we tend to look for a few features that add quality of life. We like clamshell packs because they give you the ability to see the entire main compartment at once, rather than digging through to make sure you have everything you need for a day's work or specific adventure. It's almost like a suitcase you can wear on your back, and we find we can be most organized and comfortable this way.

The Osprey Fairview all packed up.

One of our favorites in this category is the Osprey Farpoint. The pack comes in both men’s ( Farpoint ) and women’s ( Fairview ) styling at 40L. Our team has tested this travel bag for over a year in over a dozen different countries worldwide and found that it can hold all of our gear and remain comfortable in almost every situation. No bag is perfect, but a quality travel backpack will quite literally be by your side through it all, so ensuring that you get all the features you need is essential.

Gear Hauler (60L)

Ah, finally. The granddaddy of them all.

Have you ever heard the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink” and thought, well, what if I want to bring the kitchen sink, too? Then you're in the right place. A gear hauler is a great fit for a road trip where the size of your travel bag isn't the biggest concern. This normally comes in the form of a duffel, but there are a couple of colossal travel backpacks out there if that's your preference.

In the 50 to 60 L range, gear haulers are also great for outdoor adventures and hobbies that require a lot of equipment, like camping. Another great use for such a pack is to transport coats, snow pants, boots, and skiing and snowboarding gear in the winter.

We’ve also run into on-the-move creators who find them useful when packing audio and video equipment alongside their clothes on trips where they won't be able to stop back at home between gigs. The great thing about a huge travel bag is that you don't need to worry about what you’re bringing because of the sheer volume these packs offer. Unless you quite literally bring your kitchen sink, odds are, it will fit.

The YETI Crossroads 60L all packed up.

In this range, we like the YETI Crossroads 60L Duffel . It has a monumentally large main compartment that's complete with two stowable dividers, which is great for separating different kinds of gear. You could do clothes in one, camera equipment in another, and food and snacks in the last one for an epic cross country photography road trip. Or you could fill all three sections with the Pokemon cards you've been collecting since you were a kid and stow it on the top shelf of your closet so your partner thinks you finally got rid of them after all these years. The opportunities are endless!

Wrapping Up

As you can probably tell, there are a ton of travel bags out there, and each one thrives in a different setting. Odds are, you’ll have a use for almost all of the packs we listed here, but it’s about figuring out what works best for you and your specific usage needs. Be sure to check out our gear reviews , guides , and blog for more assistance finding your perfect pack!

January 31, 2022

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

The Best 9 x 10 x 17 Inches Travel Bag Or Backpack? – United Personal Items Explored

Last Updated on February 11, 2021

United Airlines have a pretty tightfisted idea of what size a personal item is.

Their personal item size limits are smaller than most other airlines in the states.

Here is the relevant quote from their website:

United Airlines Personal Item Size

Your personal item should fit underneath the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for your personal item are 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 centimeters x 25 centimeters x 43 centimeters). United Airlines

The capacity of this allowance is only estimated to be about 22 liters maximum. For comparison, full-size carry on luggage (22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches) is usually around 40 liters.

So flying with 9 x 10 x 17 personal items is a real packing challenge because you get about half as much space as you usually get with carry on baggage.

Other airlines are more generous and allow personal items that are about 29 liters , despite flying the same aircraft with the same space under seats… go figure!

It seems like United choose to put the squeeze on passengers to “encourage” them to upgrade to more expensive fares.

The most frustrating thing is that it’s very difficult to find bags that are shaped near 9 x 10 x 17 inches. These are boxy dimensions and luggage manufacturers tend to avoid this shape for reasons of practicality.

But if you are flying basic economy without a carry-on bag then it’s vitally important to find a personal item bag that is as close as possible to these measurements. After all, you need all the space you can get!

That’s why we’ve searched around the net to find the bags that are close to those permitted dimensions.

Hopefully, this post will give you some decent options if you are flying with United.

At A Glance: Our 9x10x17 Bag Suggestions

• Boarding Blue Rollaboard – 17 x 10 x 8 inches and it was designed specifically to be a two-wheeled United personal item bag
• Aerolite – A 16 x 10 x 8 basic duffel bag that is just the right size.
• TravelPro Crew Versapack – Sturdy tote bag that’s the perfect fit for United.
• TravelPro Maxlite 5 Tote – 16 x 11 x 8 inches and well made.
• DALIX Duffel Bag – A budget duffel bag that is United personal item size
• Boarding Blue Duffel – 9 x 10 x 17 bag that’s the ideal size United personal item bag
• Herschel Heritage Backpack – 16.25 x 10.5 x 4.5 inches. As with all backpacks, a lack of depth reduces capacity

Our Top Pick 9x10x17 Bag

• Weight: 3 lbs
• Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 8 inches

Boarding Blue makes this bag specifically to be used as a United personal item.

They’ve tried to recreate the experience of a carry-on rollaboard but just in a smaller format.

It’s not perfect but for the most part they have succeeded.

The main problem with this bag is that it won’t stand upright on its own if you let go of the handle.

Frustrating yes, but then it’s also frustrating to get caught at the gate and be forced to pay for checked luggage. If you can pack light then this little 2-wheeled roller can help you avoid checking fees when flying United basic economy.

Favor has made a great video demonstrating the Boarding Blue in action including placing it inside the United sizer.

But do you really need wheels for such a small bag?

9 Inches x 10 Inches x 17 Inches Duffel Bags

16 inch aerolite carry on.

• Weight: 1.1 lbs
• Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 8 inches
• Material: Ripstop Nylon

The best shape for a 9 x 10 x 17 bag is duffel bag shape i.e. somewhat rectangular.

If you are fit and healthy you don’t really need wheels on a bag this size. The wheels and internal framing will simply take up space that could have been used for socks!

The Aerolite is 16 x 10 x 8 inches so it easily fits in the underseat area and will fit in the United sizer.

But a word of caution: this carry on bag isn’t fancy.

There are no partitions in the main compartment, that’s fine for packing clothes but if you have any breakables like a camera or a laptop make sure you use a laptop sleeve or some other form of padding.

It has one pocket on the outside that’s handy for passports or documents.

One the one hand it’s great that the ripstop nylon material is so lightweight. On the other hand you get the feeling that this bag could rip if overstuffed.

The Aerolite is a good cheap option to throw some clothes into but it won’t last as long and it has fewer features compared to some of the other products on this page.

Travelpro Crew Versapack

• Weight: 2.6 lbs
• Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 9 inches
• Material: Ballistic Nylon
• Colors: Plum, Grey, Blue, Black

The listed size for the Crew Versapack is 17 x 11 x 9 inches. If this were true it would make it 1 inch too high to qualify as a United personal item.

In actual use it fits the United sizer perfectly.

Travelpro make great rolling suitcases and this tote is made to the high standards of craftsmanship.

While it’s a similar size and shape to the Aerolite is has more structure making it easier to pack. It also seems to be more durable and should last a lot longer.

Like the Aerolite there is a large front pocket but there are also organizing features inside that pocket.

Whereas the Aerolite strap is sewn on the Travelpro has a removable strap.

For more opinion check Megan’s thoughts on her Travelpro Crew tote:

Travelpro Maxlite 5

• True Dimensions: 16 x 11 x 8 inches
• Weight: 1.6 lbs
• Colors: Green, Black, Rose, Blue

Also from Travelpro consider the Maxlite 5.

According to the manufacturer, this duffel measures 18 x 11 x 8 inches. I’m not sure what they are smoking over at Travelpro because when you measure it with a tape measure it’s less than 16 inches wide.

That’s good news for us though since it means we are less likely to get in trouble with the United Airlines carry on luggage enforcers.

Travelers are using this as a personal item with United, it’s a well made bag and should last for years.

If you want a detailed review of the Maxlite 5 tote Chris has the info you need.

DALIX 17″ Duffle Bag

• Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 9 inches
• Material: Polyester
• Weight: 1.4 lbs

If you just want a cheap bag that’s the right size to squeeze under the seat then the Dalix duffel bag will sort you out.

You might not win any fashion awards with this very basic hold-all but you’ll be able to pack the maximum amount of clothes a basic economy ticket permits.

Boarding Blue Duffel

As well as our favorite wheeled Boarding Blue also make a non-wheeled version.

9 Inches x 10 Inches x 17 Inches Backpacks

Herschel supply company heritage.

• Dimensions: 16.25 x 10.5 x 4.5 inches

I mainly wanted to include an example of a backpack to show why backpacks are not good personal items for United.

If you are familiar with the brand you’ll know that Hershel backpacks are not huge backpacks.

The height and width is too large while the depth is too small.

Pay close attention to that 4.5 inch depth. That’s normal for small backpacks.

Almost every time you find a backpack that is 17 x 10 you lose a lot of capacity from the depth. The real capacity of the Herschel backpack is only about 12 liters.

Tom Bihn Synapse 19

The only backpack that I could find that seems suitable for using with United is the Tom Bihn Synapse 19.

It’s 16 x 11.4 x 7.9 inches and has 19 liters capacity. It fits in the United sizer too!

The main downside is the price. It’s an awful lot of money for a small backpack.

The Squeezability Factor

Keep in mind that unless your bag is rigid it doesn’t need to be exactly under the 9x10x17 limit.

It needs to be packed in such a way that it can be squeezed to fit inside the United Airlines sizer.

You can use a slightly larger travel bag and just not pack it so tightly.

Check our tips of traveling light if you are the type of traveler that struggles to keep their baggage down to size.

Traveling with only an under seat item like a small duffel bag or backpack isn’t all bad. If you can overcome the challenge of packing light you’ll start to enjoy the freedom of traveling with less baggage.

Not needing to fight for the overhead bin is a great perk since there is rarely enough space for all the carry ons.

In an ideal world, United would change their personal item size to be more in line with other airlines and available underseat carry on bags.

Unfortunately, we don’t live in a ideal world so don’t hold your breath on that happening any time soon.

Hopefully, in the meantime, you’ll find our list of personal item size bags helpful and discover a bag to fit under the seat in front for your next Basic Economy United flight.

You Might Also Like

• How To Fly With A United Basic Economy Backpack
• The United Basic Economy Personal Item Explained
• What Size Can Your Personal Item Be On A Plane?

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The 10 Best Weekend Travel Bags for Men

Tyler Schoeber

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Whether it be an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, a cool, casual overnight bag is key when a short stay is on the horizon. A good men’s travel bag looks good but is functional, too. From a classic leather number to a bag that adjusts to a variety of sizes, these shipshape options will outperform on your next trip.

Carl Friedrick Palissy Weekend Bag

Crafted to be the most dapper and sophisticated of the bunch, this handcrafted leather bag is one of the sleekest men’s weekend bags on the market. Yes, it’s a bit of a splurge, but its classic design makes it particularly versatile; it’s equally at home on a business trip and on a casual weekend away. The bag can fit several outfits plus shoes , so it works as a weekend bag or personal item on a plane.

Would You Go on a Trip Without Your Phone?

Lands’ End Weekender Duffel

With a max capacity of 200 lbs, this bag offers great organization even when packed to the brim. A zippered side pocket keeps important items easily accessible while multiple internal pockets keep things neatly sorted. Carry this bag two ways, by the 9″ handles or the detachable shoulder strap.

Etsy Personalized Weekend Bag

A quality, personalized weekend bag that ships fast and won’t break the bank sounds like it would never exist, right? Wrong—GiftsForGuysCo on Etsy offers exactly that. Featuring numerous stylish options and thousands of top reviews, this bag is a solid self-buy or gift for a good buddy.

London Fog Brentwood III Drop Bottom Duffel

For something clean and classic, the London Fog Brentwood has you covered. While it may have an old-school look, its design is anything but, with a padded laptop sleeve, adjustable shoulder strap, and an extra wide opening. At just three pounds, this bag will elevate your look without weighing down your luggage.

The Ultimate Weekend Packing List

The North Face Base Camp Large Duffle Bag

Anyone that’s experienced a brutal winter in the Northeast knows that The North Face builds some quality items, meant for wear and tear—and this duffel is no exception. No matter the weather conditions, this bag will get you through it with a water-resistant and sturdy PVC-coated exterior.

Herschel Supply Co. Bennett Duffle

From backpacks to totes to messenger bags, Herschel Supply Company has been getting people’s stuff where it needs to be since 2009. Its Bennett Duffle in light grey merges the brand’s grade-A design (complete with a shoe compartment and removable shoulder strap) with its recognizable look and logo, creating a classic weekend duffel bag for men.

S-Zone Canvas Weekend Bag

The perfect weekend bag comes oversized in six classic colors from S-Zone. Because this has the most spacious design of the bunch, you can literally carry anything you need for a night or even a week if you have to.

Luggage Locks: Should I Lock My Suitcase When I Fly?

Samsonite Foldaway Duffel

A spacious bag is a lifesaver during a weekend away, but between-trip storage can be a nightmare. The Foldaway Duffel from Samonsite is made to be as convenient at home as it is on the road, collapsing down into a self-contained carrying pouch when not in use. At full size, this bag features a zippered external pocket, extra wide opening, and adjustable shoulder strap.

Peak Design 35L Travel Duffel

Considering the world feels like it’s ending these days, you may think it’s a bit late to get in on the sustainability game—but I can assure you, it isn’t. Peak Design’s 100 percent recycled, waterproof travel duffel is a timeless tote that’ll make you feel as good as you look carrying it. Whether you’re an all-black kind of guy or willing to spice it up with a bit of sage, this bag looks great no matter the choice.

Filson’s Medium Duffle Bag

An abrasion-resistant exterior is key when it comes to getting your wardrobe to and fro in one piece—especially when it looks this good. Filson’s well-designed Medium Duffle has top-carry handles, an adjustable shoulder strap, leather trimmings, and rust-proof zipper.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Tyler Schoeber is a production specialist, photographer, occasional writer, travel style guru, and general Renaissance man. Follow his adventures on Instagram at @tylerschoeber .

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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12 Best Personal Item Bags & Underseat Luggage in 2024

As a steadfast minimalist one-bag traveler who avoids baggage fees like the plague, I’m pleased to share with you the best personal item bags of 2024.

I’ll admit it: I’m a bit frugal and curmudgeonly when it comes to paying extra for carry-on or checked luggage.

The money I spend on my plane ticket should mark the end of my airline-related expenses, dang it.

To help you find the right bag, I’ve rigorously tested and reviewed a variety of backpacks, totes, shoulder bags, duffels, and rolling luggage so you don’t have to.

And I stuck to upper-echelon brands like TOM BIHN, GORUCK, Matador, and Zpacks.

There are no cheap knockoffs here.

This buyer’s guide will also discuss the features to consider and which bags will best match your style of traveling.

Toward the end of this post, you’ll find a summary of permissible luggage sizes for various popular airlines.

Best Personal Item Bags of 2024

• Types of Personal Item-Sized Bags • Ultralight & Ultra-Efficient Backpack: Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25 • Full-Featured & Comfortable Backpack: TOM BIHN Techonaut 30 • Lightweight Packable Daypack: Matador Freerain22 • Camera + Tech + Electronics Pack: Lowepro Flipside BP 300 AW III • Durable & Functional Duffel: GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 2.0 • Minimalist Ultralight Duffel: UltraLiteSacks • High-End Personal Item Tote: Mission Workshop Drift • Tried-and-True Shoulder Bag: Timbuk2 Messenger • Ultimate Shoulder Sling: Peak Design Everyday Sling • Simple & Stylish Briefcase: TOM BIHN Daylight • Hard Cover Luggage with Wheels: Samsonite Novaire • Mini Rolling Soft Luggage: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside • Why I Travel with Only a Personal Item Bag • Factors We Consider When Choosing Products • Final Thoughts: Best Personal Item Bags of 2024

Types of Personal Item Sized Bags

Not all bags are the same.

Not all travelers are the same.

Each bag on this list has specific pros & cons to consider.

Here are the most popular styles of underseat luggage:

I like to move nimbly when I travel, and a wheeled bag or duffel makes me less agile.

I fit everything I need conveniently onto my back, so that’s how I roll.

Backpacks make life on the go much more doable.

I understand some people can’t wear backpacks because of back pain or other health issues.

Consider a duffel bag, tote, or wheeled suitcase instead if that’s the case.

Duffel bags are a great no-fuss solution to personal item-sized bag travel.

A duffel is ideal when you need extra space to bring a few extra things outside your main luggage.

They also help maximize your storage space compared to the other two options above.

A duffel can be slightly more annoying to carry than a backpack; however, you can fit a wider variety of stuff inside one since they’re reasonably malleable and fit into oddly shaped spaces (like beneath airplane seats).

I recently traveled to Vietnam for a month with only a messenger bag.

I’d have chosen no bag at all if I didn’t need my laptop and other work essentials.

I could fit my laptop, a change of clothes, and a few personal items in my messenger bag, but nothing else.

But not everyone is a minimalist travel junkie.

Even so, if you still have an extra bag in addition to your carry-on, a messenger is a quality solution and should fit all the stuff you need during your flight.

We’ve included some top-shelf options for wheeled mini carry-on bags that’ll fit under the seat ahead of you.

Soft- or hard-roller bags are best for those wanting more protection for their belongings or anyone who doesn’t want to carry a backpack or duffel bag for long periods.

If you’re flying frequently, however, a hard case may not be the best style of bag for you.

A roller case is awkward to carry, and not every destination is roller luggage friendly.

I’ve visited bustling locations where this luggage style simply wouldn’t work.

Ultra Lightweight Personal Item Backpack Zpacks Bagger ULTRA 25

MSRP : $249 Capacity : 25L Weight : 10.7 oz

Zpacks is far and away my favorite ultralight minimalist gear brand, as they’re consistently raising the bar for lightweight and functional equipment.

The Bagger ULTRA 25 is a backpack designed for fast and light trips, as it’s made from waterproof ULTRA fabric and weighs in at a minuscule 10.7 ounces.

This is my go-to travel backpack for trips I take without my bulky camera gear .

For trips where I do bring my camera along, I use the slightly more spacious and well-padded TOM BIHN Techonaut 30, the following recommendation on this list.

Between the two bags, I slightly prefer my Zpacks.

Thanks to its super durable, lightweight, and waterproof ULTRA material, the Bagger is perfect for ultralight gear nerds or anyone aiming to cut their pack weight and brave the elements.

It’s an incredibly functional and versatile option for personal-item-sized bag travel, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Why We Like the Bagger ULTRA 25: It’s as lightweight a backpack as you’ll find at 25 liters. It’s completely waterproof, has dual water bottle holders, and is surprisingly comfortable to haul, considering its lightweight shoulder straps.

What to Keep in Mind: This isn’t the most visually appealing bag, and it’s not cheap either.

Full-Featured & Super Comfortable Backpack TOM BIHN Techonaut 30

MSRP : $392 Capacity : 30L Weight : 2 lb 9 oz

The TOM BIHN Techonaut 30 is a 30-liter backpack ideal for digital nomads like myself or for one-bag personal item travelers who crave the best gear.

Made from high-quality, water-resistant materials, it features a padded back panel and cushy shoulder straps for maximum comfort.

It can also be converted into a shoulder/duffel bag by purchasing an Absolute Shoulder Strap.

I love this bag’s isolated laptop compartment and the abundance of well-placed pockets that help keep travelers organized.

It’s a well-balanced bag that’s effortless to wear, easy to adjust, and can haul significant weight comfortably thanks to its internal frame.

My one nitpick is its zippered water bottle pocket, which can get a bit tight when the bag is fully packed.

I’d have preferred a more accessible pocket (or two) as you’ll find in the Bagger ULTRA, but I understand entirely TOM BIHN keeping to their sleek and zipped-up style.

All in all, this is a heck of a bag.

Why We Like the Techonaut 30: It’s an incredibly versatile, comfortable, stylish, and functional bag that can also serve as a duffel. We think it’s the perfect pack to consider if you’re pondering becoming a one-bag traveler.

What to Keep in Mind: The nearly $400 price tag is high, but think of this bag as a decades-long travel investment.

Packable Daypack Matador Freerain22

MSRP : $100 Capacity : 22L Weight : 10.6 oz

The waterproof Freerain22 packable daypack from Matador has a tiny footprint when compressed and can be stashed away in your carry-on or checked luggage.

It’s perfect for someone who needs space for extra items on the return trip and wants weatherproof protection when exploring.

Although small and lightweight, this bag packs a punch.

Its 22-liter capacity is excellent for carrying all your necessities, whether in-flight or as an around-town daypack.

It is, however, on the small side for single-bag travel, so look elsewhere if you’re only taking one bag.

Much like any other packable daypack, the Freerain22 forgoes padding on the back panel and shoulder straps to maximize its compression capabilities.

No, this bag won’t be the most comfortable on the list, but it is the most packable.

Why We Like the Freerain22: This bag packs down very small and can function as a daypack or a vessel to haul around extra stuff you accumulate on the road. It’s completely waterproof and has an impressive set of features.

What to Keep in Mind: There is zero back padding, and the shoulder straps are thin mesh; this isn’t designed to be the most comfortable bag in the world.

Camera + Electronics + Tech Backpack Lowepro Flipside BP 300 AW III

MSRP : $179 Capacity : 27L Weight : 3 lb 3 oz

Depending on where and why I’m traveling, I like to keep my fragile gadgets close at hand.

Cameras, lenses, chargers, laptops, and tablets all deserve a safe and secure home during my wanderings.

If you pack expensive cameras and tech gear like me, look no further than this beauty.

Popular among photographers and videographers, the Lowepro Flipside BP 300 AW III keeps gear safe and snug without unnecessary frills that add to its size.

Its padding is generous but not cumbersome, and its back panel zipper access to the main compartment is an unconventional yet effective feature.

For rare trips that require me to bring all of my cameras, lenses, and tripods, I’ll pack my tech gear in this bag and throw my clothes and other belongings in my Bagger ULTRA 25.

Why We Like the Flipside BP 300 AW III: From its smooth zippers to its ample (but not bulky) padding, we love every single feature on the Flipside. This is an extremely well-made bag that will thrive for photographers and videographers.

What to Keep in Mind: This pack’s main compartment is accessed through the back of the pack. For larger photography setups, consider a bigger bag (like the Flipside 500 AW II ).

Durable & Functional Duffel Bag GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 2.0

MSRP : $150 Capacity : 32L Weight : 2 lb 9 oz

Pro travelers who need more features than the UltraLiteSacks duffel listed below should check out the GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 2.0 for their next adventure.

It’s a sturdy and practical piece that’ll thrive during your travels, everyday life, and anywhere between.

This duffel is made from burly 1000D Cordura nylon and sports three exterior and three interior zipper pockets (six total) to keep your gear organized and accessible during travel.

It’s protected by a ‘You Break It, We Fix It’ guarantee, though it’s so durable, I doubt you’ll ever need it.

Though I don’t use my Aviator Kit Bag for one-bag travel (I definitely could), it has become my all-time favorite gym bag.

It’s remarkably durable and has the perfect amount of internal storage to stash my beverages, shoes, protein powder, extra clothing, and other odds and ends.

I love it so much that I’m actively seeking out my next piece of GORUCK gear.

Why We Like the Aviator Kit Bag 2.0: In terms of build quality, durability, functionality, and attention to detail, it doesn’t get much better than GORUCK. If you like traveling with a personal item duffel bag, this is the one for you.

What to Keep in Mind: GORUCK doesn’t offer free shipping, no matter how much money you spend.

Minimalist Ultralight Duffel Bag UltraLiteSacks

MSRP : $149 Capacity : 35L Weight : 11.4 oz

Like the Zpacks Bagger, the UltraLikeSacks duffel is made from space-age ULTRA fabric.

And while this bag doesn’t offer all of the fancy features of the GORUCK duffel above, it’s still very functional for use as a carry-on or under-seat bag.

It’ll thrive for those who need a lightweight duffel that can haul serious loads.

I’m visiting Japan next winter, and I plan to use this bag to pack all of my ski apparel — gloves, insulated pants, puffy jacket, collapsible poles, boots — and will slide it underneath the seat in front of me.

Certain bags serve specific purposes in life, and this one’s calling is a gear hauler.

This is a no-frills duffel, which begs the question: why is it 150 bucks?

Well, you’re paying for cutting-edge materials, impeccable attention to detail, and hand-made-in-the-USA build quality.

This bag shouldn’t fray, tear, or explode when stuffing it, and it’s as lightweight and packable as you could ask for.

Why We Like the UltraLiteSacks Duffel: It’s just like our favorite ditty bag but jumbo-sized and fitted with handles and straps. It’s incredibly lightweight, fully waterproof, and will pack down into your main bag with ease.

What to Keep in Mind: With one main compartment and zero frills, this duffel is as minimalist as they come.

High-End Personal Item Tote Mission Workshop Drift

MSRP : $335 Capacity : 28L Weight : 2 lb 13 oz

What can I say?

I’m a sucker for top-shelf products that are made in the U.S.A.

Just like the Aviator Kit Bag I mentioned earlier, this functional tote from Mission Workshop offers second-to-none quality from a brand that keeps business in America and supports hard-working fabricators.

The Drift is tailor-made for professionals who demand performance from everything in life, including the bags they carry.

This tote will stash away your electronics, clothes, travel necessities, and other fixings in its array of thoughtful pockets and sleeves.

Versatile totes like this can be carried like a briefcase, slung over your shoulder like a duffel, and (you guessed it) slide underneath the airplane seat in front of you.

So, why not take all that money you’ll save on baggage fees and invest in a slick bag like this?

Why We Like the Drift: We’re gear snobs who value attention to detail and handmade products from high-end materials; this bag checks all the boxes for us. It’s a technical work of art and will last for a very long time.

What to Keep in Mind: It’s pretty expensive, but just like the TOM BIHN Techonaut , you’re getting an exceptional bag that’s made in America.

Tried-and-True Shoulder Bag Timbuk2 Messenger Bag

MSRP : $129 Capacity : 25L Weight : 1 lb 11 oz

I considered traveling “bagless” on a recent trip to Vietnam, but I still needed something to hold my laptop and carry-on items.

I purchased a cheap knockoff messenger bag and quickly regretted not grabbing this Timbuk2 instead.

I won’t name names, but the knockoff bag was frumpy and dug painfully into my shoulder.

Reviews of the Timbuk2 Messenger told a different story, however: It’s comfy to wear, looks fantastic, and puts a little extra glide in your stride. It pays to buy quality.

Those who travel frequently for work would find a messenger bag like this perfect for hauling their laptop, tablet, cords, chargers, and other mobile office essentials.

Pair it with a well-packed overhead carry-on, and you’ll be in great shape.

Why We Like the Timbuk2 Messenger Bag: It comes in a variety of different sizes and colors, so you can pick the perfect match to suit your travel style. It’s reasonably priced, weather-resistant, and has top-notch internal organization.

What to Keep in Mind: It’s hard to find any nitpicks with this bag!

Ultimate Shoulder Sling Peak Design Everyday Sling

MSRP : $120 Capacity : 6L Weight : 1 lb 3 oz

Being a minimalist and writing about minimalist gear can be challenging.

Not wanting to be weighed down by my possessions is constantly at odds with all the nifty minimalist gadgets and gear I found while researching these articles.

That rings especially true with this shoulder sling from Peak Design.

The Everyday Sling is a sleek and stylish shoulder sling that keeps your EDC essentials and valuables close at hand, safe from the elements, and sitting comfortably on the small of your back.

Savvy travelers could wear the Everyday Sling around their waist and rock a personal item sized backpack as they board their flight to avoid baggage fees.

Why not try? Doing so could add a few extra liters of storage to your minimalist packing setup.

Why We Like the Everyday Sling: We lug mirrorless cameras around when we travel, so we appreciate products that protect our expensive gear. This rock-solid crossbody sling comes in three sizes and is protected by a lifetime warranty.

What to Keep in Mind: At six liters, this is the smallest bag on this list. Don’t expect it to hold much more than a camera, tablet, snacks, and other small travel essentials.

Simple & Stylish Briefcase TOM BIHN Daylight

MSRP : $93 Capacity : 8L Weight : 12.7 oz

TOM BIHN makes its second appearance on this list of the best personal item bags for 2024.

That’s because the Daylight is a well-designed and functional briefcase suitable for travel, work, and trips to the coffee shop.

The Daylight’s main compartment and multiple organizing pockets keep your businessy stuff exactly where you need it.

With comfy straps, well-placed pockets, and a lightweight design, you’ll glide around airports with ease.

Much like the Timbuk2 Messenger Bag, I’d recommend the Daylight for digital nomads and those who embark on frequent work trips.

Pair it with one of TOM BIHN’s exceptional carry-on travel backpacks if you’re feeling especially frisky.

Why We Like the Daylight: What’s not to love? We’re big TOM BIHN fans, and this bag highlights their commitment to practical, well-made travel gear. It’ll work great for coffee shop hopping with your laptop, tablet, headphones, and other essentials.

What to Keep in Mind: At the time of writing this, the Daylight is unfortunately out of stock. Sign up to get notified when it’s available again.

Hard Cover Luggage with Wheels Samsonite Novaire Wheeled Underseater

MSRP : $220 Capacity : Not listed Weight : 6 lb 12 oz

Do you need extra protection for your belongings or have trouble carrying backpacks or shoulder bags?

If so, a classic roller bag might be the solution. This Samsonite Novaire Wheeled Underseater is a shining example of mobile hardside style.

It has all the classic design features of a roller carry-on, but it’s minified.

The Novaire fits under most airline seats while taking full advantage of every last square inch allowed by travel regulations.

Yeah, it’s a bit like a tiny tank, but that can be a good thing on the road.

Because it’s sturdy, rigid, and has wheels, you will sacrifice some space inside the bag to adhere to personal item dimensions requirements.

That said, it’ll work wonders for those who don’t want the strain of a backpack, duffel, or messenger bag.

Why We Like the Novaire: Wheeled underseat luggage is hard to come by, but Samsonite has executed it well. This bag has integrated USB ports, a feature you won’t find on any other bag on this list.

What to Keep in Mind: At 6.8 pounds, this is the heaviest bag on the list (and it’s also the most rigid). It might be a tight squeeze under the seat in front of you when fully packed.

Mini Rolling Luggage Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside

MSRP : $170 Capacity : 26L Weight : 5 lb 8 oz

Like the Samsonite above, many people choose this style of roll-around bag because it’s often more convenient and comfy than totes, backpacks, and duffels that hang off the body.

But unlike the rigid Novaire, the Maxlite 5 is soft-sided and can be shaped and flattened as needed.

Despite its soft sides, the TravelPro Maxlite still offers plenty of protection.

It comes in a compact, 5-pound version that slides easily under airline seats and a spacious 9-pound model that should trigger gate fees on many airlines.

Choose your size carefully.

If I were torn between the hard-sided Samsonite and the soft-sided Travelpro, I’d lean towards the latter.

As long as you don’t absolutely beat up your bag, hard-sided carry-on luggage can be a bit overkill.

Oh, and did I mention the soft-sided roller is half the price?

Why We Like the Maxlite 5 Softside: Assuming you don’t overpack it, the Maxlite 5 Softside should fit like a glove underneath the seat in front of you. It’s well-reviewed, priced to sell, and backed by a lifetime warranty.

What to Keep in Mind: Like the Samsonite above, this bag will be a bit heavier and bulkier than a backpack, messenger bag, tote, or duffel.

Why I Travel With Only a Personal Item Sized Bag

I choose to travel with less. Less stuff means less weight dragging me down.

That makes it easier to navigate crowded airports or to flag down my Uber.

I shudder at the sight of folks pulling their entire wardrobe around in a 50+ pound monstrosity on wheels.

What’s the secret of being a light and nimble traveler?

Bring. Less. Stuff.

Obvious, yes, but packing light isn’t always easy to execute.

Years ago, I could be seen lugging around an 80-liter behemoth, but eventually, I embraced a minimalist lifestyle, and everything fell into place.

I recently returned from Europe after six weeks carrying only a 25-liter personal item bag.

I now save significant time and money by never paying gate fees for a bag.

I use the extra cash to treat myself to better meals and memorable travel experiences.

And I don’t miss the time I used to waste chasing lost baggage or standing shoulder-to-shoulder around the luggage carousel, hoping my bag would emerge in one piece.

The ‘secret’ of being a nimble traveler is to always avoid checking your luggage.

Commit to fitting everything you need in your overhead compartment bag or the personal item bag by your feet.

“Easier said than done,” you may say, but try it the next time you fly.

It’s liberating.

Factors We Considered When Choosing Products

What qualifies a bag for our ‘best of’ list?

After getting our hands on several products, putting them through their paces, scouring numerous forums, product reviews, and videos, we decided to use the following criteria:

Size & Dimensions

First and foremost, carry-on bags must fit in the space regulations allow.

Specifically, a “personal items” handbag, backpack, or purse must fit under the seat in front of you, not in the overhead bin.

Some budget airlines measure your bag at the gate by testing whether it fits inside an official sizing slot.

If it doesn’t fit, your only options are to pay a hefty gate fee to bring it or to leave the bag behind.

Here are the maximum allowed sizes for personal item bags for airlines that charge for a carry-on:

• Frontier : 18” x 14” x 8”
• Spirit : 18” x 14” x 8”
• United : 17” x 10” x 9”
• JetBlue : 17” x 13” x 8”
• Allegiant : 16” x 15” x 7”
• Norwegian : 15” x 12” x 8”
• Wizz Air : 16” x 12” x 8”
• Ryanair : 16” x 10” x 8”
• Easyjet : 18” x 14” x 8”

Note : Before you travel, confirm the current allowed sizes for the airline(s) you’ll be using. Specifications and policies sometimes change. The folks at NerdWallet created this useful policy guide  if you have more questions. 

Airlines that don’t charge for carry-ons are a bit more lenient towards the size of your item as long as it fits under the seat ahead of you.

For these airlines, having a carry-on and a personal item is convenient because it may give you just enough cargo space to prevent the need to check a bag.

Consider the weight of your empty bag.

The less your empty bag weighs, the less it contributes to the overall weight you’ll handle as you travel.

Your feet and shoulders must endure every extra ounce or pound you drag around the globe, so put your luggage on a diet and leave your barbells at home.

Materials/Durability

A bag is only as good as its components.

That’s why I picked bags made from proven backpack fabrics that will withstand abuse.

I also preferred double-stitching, YKK zippers, and heavy-duty puncture-resistant fabrics.

The most durable bags on this list are the TOM BIHN Techonaut, the GORUCK Aviator Kit Bag 2.0, and the Samsonite Novaire Underseater.

The least durable bags are the Matador Freerain22, UltraLiteSacks duffel, and the TOM BIHN Daylight briefcase.

 Weather Resistance

I’ve dragged my stuff through a blizzard in Detroit, a downpour in Budapest, and a sandstorm in Africa.

At the very least, choose a bag rated as water- and weather-resistant.

And even with a sturdy bag, I still sometimes wrap some of my more delicate stuff in a plastic bag before it goes into the luggage.

The best bags provide more peace of mind.

The savings from buying a flimsy knockoff bag vanish as soon as that cheap bag splits open halfway around the world, and you have to replace it.

Travel light, but always bring the peace of mind that comes from spending a bit more to get a higher-quality product.

Which Underseat Travel Bag is Best for You in 2024?

It’s your turn to decide on one of these best personal item travel bags for 2024.

Will it be an ultra-lightweight and efficient Zpacks Bagger ULTRA?

A simple and stylish briefcase from TOM BIHN?

A futuristic tote from Mission Workshop?

Choose carefully because whatever you choose will be your joined-at-the-hip travel companion for the next few thousand miles.

And remember: when traveling, it’s best to avoid nasty surprises.

Do your research and only buy bags that will fit comfortably in the sizing slots of the airlines you actually use.

And travel light.

Surprise yourself with how little ‘stuff’ it takes to travel comfortably.

Finally, combine the money you save by avoiding luggage gate fees with the time you save by skipping the luggage carousels and treat yourself by splurging on the good stuff the next time you travel.

Please let us know if you’ve enjoyed this list of the best personal item underseat bags for 2024 by sharing your comments below.

We wish you wheels up and calm, clear skies.

Last Updated: August 21, 2024

Noel Krasomil

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Luggage Size Chart: Ultimate Guide to Carry On & Check-in Baggage

The importance of a luggage bag size chart cannot be overstated, as improperly sized luggage can transform an anticipated journey into a hassle at the airport. From incurring additional fees for oversized and trolley bag to facing restrictions on carry-on access, understanding and adhering to additional questions related to luggage size limits is pivotal. Before heading to the airport, a quick review of our comprehensive luggage size guide ensures a smoother travel experience.

Which luggage to take when traveling?

There are tons of questions regarding selecting the right type of luggage for travel can be a daunting task, as various factors come into play to ensure a seamless journey. The duration, distance, and destination of the trip are crucial considerations. For short trips, a compact carry-on, duffle backpack  or office bag may suffice, offering convenience and avoiding check-in hassles. Longer journeys, especially those involving multiple destinations, may require larger suitcases to accommodate ample belongings. The type of travel, be it business, leisure, or adventure, further influences the choice. A well-informed decision on luggage size and type not only caters to practical needs but also enhances overall travel comfort and efficiency.

Luggage Size Chart

Explore our comprehensive inch luggage size chart below, providing detailed dimensions for various bag types, ensuring you stay well-informed for your travel packing needs.

When to Opt for Checked Luggage

Choosing checked luggage is often the preferred option for extended trips where a larger wardrobe is essential. Business travelers, especially those with formal attire or multiple outfits, may find checked bags more accommodating. Vacationers planning for diverse weather conditions or various activities could also benefit from the extra space. Additionally, when carrying larger items or specific equipment necessary for the journey, opting for checked luggage ensures a smoother and more comfortable travel experience.

• Cabin + Medium + Large

Checked Baggage Allowances and Restrictions

When to opt for carry on bags.

Carry-on bags are the perfect choice for travelers in specific situations, such as short trips or weekends away. Their compact size and lightweight nature make them ideal for quick getaways. Opting for carry-on bags offers several advantages, including convenience, cost savings, and the ability to bypass the often time-consuming baggage claim process. Travelers can enjoy swift departures, avoiding the hassle of waiting for checked baggage.

Carry on luggage size chart 

Personal items limitations.

Airlines typically designate a specific space beneath the seat for personal items, such as laptops , medications, books, or other essentials. This space is intended to provide convenience for passengers during the flight. However, exceeding the allotted space may necessitate the use of the overhead bin and, in some cases, could lead to additional fees. It's essential for travelers to be mindful of the dimensions and limitations imposed by airlines to ensure a smooth and hassle-free boarding experience.

In conclusion, understanding luggage size guidelines is paramount for a seamless travel experience. The choice between carry-on and checked luggage depends on factors like trip duration and specific needs. Adhering to airline regulations prevents unnecessary fees and ensures swift boarding. The convenience of personal items beneath the seat is advantageous, but travelers must be mindful of space limitations. To assist in making informed choices, it is recommended to refer to our comprehensive luggage size chart in kg or luggage size chart in cm. By consulting this, travelers can sidestep common pitfalls, enjoy cost savings, and embark on their journeys with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 3 sizes of luggage?

• Luggage generally comes in three main sizes: small, medium, and large. Small luggage, often referred to as carry-on, is suitable for short trips, while medium and large sizes cater to longer journeys with increased packing capacity. 

What is the size limit for carry-on luggage?

• The carry-on luggage size chart varies among airlines, but common dimensions range around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). It's crucial for travelers to check their airline's specific requirements to ensure their carry-on meets the size restrictions and avoids any inconvenience during boarding.

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The 9 Best Carry-on Luggage for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Great pieces when you want to pack light

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

How we tested, other carry-ons we tested.

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Arguably the least exciting part of traveling is actually getting to your destination via planes, trains, subways, and/or automobiles, which is why finding the right carry-on luggage is essential to remove as many pain points as possible. The best luggage holds plenty of stuff in a smartly organized way, moves well and maneuvers easily, can stand up to a serious beating, provides solid value, and, yes, looks stylish as well.

Digging into the options, we looked at hardside and softside rollers, backpacks, duffels, and business-ready suitcases. We narrowed the wide field of options to find the best products across various categories. Then, each piece of luggage was scored by our team of testers using a five-point scale, focusing on its overall storage capacity, specific design features, organizational logic, durability, maneuverability, and whether or not the product’s quality justified the price. In addition to packing exercises, we also pressure-tested the luggage by dropping it several times and hitting it repeatedly with a baseball bat.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Classy, minimalist design

Ideal internal organization

Rolls perfectly wherever it goes

Generous capacity

Lacks a separate laundry storage area

Samsonite's Freeform Carry-on Spinner checks all the boxes. Four lightweight 360-degree double spinner wheels assure maneuverability, gliding smoothly on hard surfaces and carpets. Our tester loved how easily they could transition from four to two wheels to handle bumpy terrain. The push-button handle provides multi-stage positioning to accommodate travelers of different heights. The Polypro hardshell stood up to our damage tests without incident, so it'll survive rough handling by baggage carriers if you have to check it—while other details, like an integrated ID tag and a TSA-friendly three-dial combo lock, provide added peace of mind. Our testers also loved the color options, which make the bag stand out from the masses at luggage claim.

With just shy of 50 liters of storage space and the ability to expand, the Freeform can carry a lot of clothes, with a cross ribbon and a divider to keep things organized, along with a handful of zippered pockets for things like your shoes. Our tester did wish there was a separate, waterproof section for dirty clothes. The sleek profile will appeal to those with a modern aesthetic, while the outer material is hard enough to protect your gear but not so hard that it'd hurt if you hit your legs with the suitcase while rushing to catch a plane.

Dimensions: 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds | Capacity: 49.5 liters | Materials: Polypro hardside

TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

Best Budget

Amazon basics expandable hardside 21-inch spinner.

Easy on the wallet

Great maneuverability

Available as part of a set

Slightly bulky profile

Handle only has one lock position

The term basic may carry a negative connotation, but Amazon is all-in on challenging that perception. Their Basic 21-inch Hardside Spinner won accolades from our tester based on its value, durability, and storage capacity. The suitcase uses an extra-thick ABS hardshell that stood up to our impact tests, providing effective protection for your gear. The four double-spinner wheels let the suitcase glide smoothly on the carpet and other flat surfaces.

Inside, you get a main storage area with an X-shaped compression strap, along with a 150-denier polyester divider that’s equipped with three zippered pockets to keep things organized and to help separate your dirty laundry or footwear from your clean clothes. If you need more space, the suitcase can expand by up to 15 percent. Our tester also appreciated that the telescoping handle locks into place, and the side handle made lifting the bag pretty simple.

Dimensions: 22 x 14.9 x 10 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds | Capacity: 38.7 liters | Materials: ABS hardshell and 150-denier polyester liner

Best Hardside

Travelpro platinum elite carry-on spinner.

Resilient material withstands rough handling

Charging capabilities

Lots of internal organization

Harder to fit overhead when expanded

Constructed of an ultra-strong polycarbonate shell that flexes on impact to prevent cracking, Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Carry-on Expandable Hardside Spinner will protect the contents of your suitcase in practically any situation. The 8-pound bag sits on four self-aligning magnetic spinner wheels that are integrated into Travelpro’s PrecisionGlide System, moving smoothly across all surfaces. Meanwhile, the handle's contoured grip and telescoping shaft make it easy to move the suitcase around, whether rolling it across the bumpy tarmac or weaving through terminal traffic.

It also comes with external USB-A and USB-C ports, which work with an exterior battery pocket hidden in the expansion feature for easy access (and FAA compliance). You'll have to buy the power bank separately. Inside, you’ll find two separate sections on both sides of the suitcase, each with a few zippered compartments for smaller items, though our tester did wish there were some larger zippered pockets integrated into the design.

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds | Capacity: 45 liters | Materials: Polycarbonate hard shell with aluminum corner guards

Best Softside

Travelpro platinum elite softside expandable carry on luggage.

Smartly designed

Garment section

Included toiletry bag

May be impractically large when expanded

On the pricier side

Unlike hardside suitcases, which typically divide their storage space into two equal sections, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-inch Expandable Carry-on Spinner utilizes one large storage section. This is outfitted with a panel compression system and a removable quart-sized wet pocket, along with zippered storage in the fold-back lid. The suitcase also includes a drop-in, fold-out suiter section, designed to accommodate clothes on a hanger to prevent wrinkling.

The polyester outer has been treated with DuraGuard to help combat dirt and stains, and it stood up well to our impact tests. It also has an FAA-approved USB port (along with a dedicated power bank pocket), though it doesn’t come with the power bank. Our tester noted that moving the Platinum Elite at an angle was slightly cumbersome; however, the eight self-aligning spinner wheels flow smoothly on all types of surfaces, and the multiple heights of the telescoping handle allow for intelligent customization.

Dimensions: 23.5 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.8 pounds | Capacity: 46 liters | Materials: Polyester with DuraGuard coating

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Well-designed interior

Includes a rain cover

Easy to clean

Some may prefer more structure

Some travelers may question why you'd want to carry your luggage on your back when you can roll it, but for those who like the freedom afforded by a backpack-style carry-on (imagine moving hands-free across any sort of terrain with ease), carrying the weight of the pack and its contents is a worthy sacrifice. The unstructured Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is easy to load thanks to its rectangular shape, which, as our tester noted, lends itself to tucking things into the corners.

The 35-liter pack has an innovative organizational structure: One side features a few different zippered compartments, while the other has a zippered mesh panel and a padded laptop/tablet sleeve to protect your electronics. Our tester also loved how the YKK side zips made it easy to access the bag's contents quickly. The 840-denier ballistic nylon outer stood up to our impact tests and will also stand up to the elements, and it wipes clean with a damp cloth. And comfort—an essential aspect of a backpack-style carry-on—is assured thanks to a weight-distributing low-profile harness and a breathable mesh back panel.

One potential issue we've had over years of testing this bag is that its outer shell might eventually flake off. This doesn't impact the bag's functionality, just its aesthetics.

Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds | Capacity: 35 liters | Materials: 840-denier ballistic nylon

Best Duffel

Yeti 40l duffel.

Frustration-free packing and unpacking

Durable, travel-ready fabric

Plenty of internal organization

Doesn’t pack down small for storage

After Yeti popularized the concept of high-end coolers, they turned their design expertise to luggage, and the Crossroads 40L Duffel is the result. Built to hold a hefty cache of gear for road trips, camping, and flying, the duffel has a structured build that lets its walls stand up when empty. The interior features two divider panels for separating clean and dirty gear, which can be stashed under a bottom flap when not needed. Our tester also appreciated the duffel's small top pockets for items like tools or your cell phone.

TuffSkin Nylon, an expedition-grade 700-denier fabric inspired by motorcycle gear, can take a beating without incident and is both water- and abrasion-resistant. All the straps lining the bag have reinforced stitching and internal anchors, so they'll stand up to the heaviest of loads—although our tester did note that the detachable shoulder strap is only padded in one section, so it may be uncomfortable or awkward if you overpack. That said, the compression straps are removable so you can use them on the inside or outside, which helps keep things secure.

Dimensions: 21 x 12.5 x 9.8 inches | Weight: 3.8 pounds | Capacity: 40 liters | Materials: TuffSkin 700-denier nylon, GroundControl PU-coated base

TripSavvy / Nick Kova

Best Expandable

Away the bigger carry-on flex.

Scratches buff out easily with included sponge

Excellent maneuverability

Away took their classic suitcase design and added a built-in zipper expansion that provides an additional 2.25 inches of storage in The Bigger Carry-On Flex. This means being able to pack all those mid-trip purchases comfortably and confidently. The carry-on glides effortlessly on four 360-degree spinning wheels, while the ample interior organization—including two main compartments, a layered second compartment, a laundry bag, and netted storage—will appeal to travelers who haul lots of gear.

Our tester liked how the compression straps made clothing with thicker fabric smaller and said the suitcase could handle everything you’d need for a long weekend. During the impact tests, our tester noted that the polycarbonate shell scuffed up a bit. However, the suitcase comes with a cleaning sponge, which wipes away any damage. A TSA-approved combo lock adds a touch of security if you have to check the suitcase, while the underside grab handle makes it easy to lift into the overhead bin.

Dimensions: 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.55 pounds | Capacity: 47.9 liters, 55.7 expanded | Materials: Polycarbonate shell, leather details

Best for Business Travel

Béis the carry-on roller.

Modern aesthetic offers maximum versatility

Impressive organization, including potential laptop storage

Largest capacity of our picks

A bit unwieldy at times

Designed to accommodate the most demanding business traveler, Béis’s The Carry-on Roller leans heavily on organization. It has compartments on both sides of the interior and includes drawstring sections for storing dirty clothes, two zippered bags built into the divider, and an additional cushioned divider that our tester says could easily accommodate a laptop—a rarity in carry-on luggage. The hardside virgin polycarbonate assures ample protection, and it handled our impact tests without issues. We also loved the little details and features, including padding on the extendable trolly handle, a retractable bag attach strap that can carry up to 15 pounds, TSA-approved locks, and a zippered expansion feature that boosts storage up to 61 liters.

Four Hinomoto 360-degree wheels glided smoothly on all surfaces, though our tester found that the bag did tend to orient itself onto the wider edge while pushing. Our tester loved the look of The Carry-on Roller with its gradient 3D stripe design, slim profile, and six colorways from traditional black to beige or pink.

Dimensions: 15.7 x 21 x 9.8 inches | Weight: 8.3 pounds | Capacity: 49 to 61 liters | Materials: Polycarbonate body, PVC and polyester liner, metal hardware, nylon zipper

Best Multi-use Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

Multiple ways to get inside

Adjustable capacity

Easy to handle

Built on the premise that capacity requirements vary from trip to trip, Peak Designs’ Travel Pack 45L may be the most versatile carry-on available. You can access the interior from the side, top, front, and rear. It offers quick-access pockets for keys, sunglasses, and passports; two expandable side pockets for water bottles and tripods; and a padded laptop/tablet sleeve. Inside, the main space divides into two sections with a zippered mesh sleeve to help separate and organize your gear. Our tester loved the ample grab handles (one on each side), which made placing the bag in the overhead bin a breeze.

The shoulder straps and waist belt can be stored inside the bag, reducing tangles when sliding the pack under a seat. It’s also very weather-resistant, thanks to weatherproof Ultra Zips, a recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell, and a 900-denier bottom liner, all of which handled our impact tests without issue. But perhaps best of all, the Travel Pack can be compressed for smaller loads, affording a more streamlined fit, or expanded to 45 liters of maximum storage.

Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches standard, 22 x 13 x 9.5 compressed, 22 x 12 x 11 expanded | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Capacity: 35 liters standard, 30 liters compressed, 45 liters expanded | Materials: Weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon shell with DWR, 900-denier waterproof bottom liner, anodized aluminum hardware

If you're looking for a suitcase that offers top-notch handling over different terrain, a sleek minimalist aesthetic, and ample capacity, we recommend the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner . We also like the AmazonBasics 21-inch Hardside Spinner for its reasonable price tag and impressive durability.

The overall capacity of each bag was evaluated by how well the suitcase could store everything you’d need for a four-day trip, including loads of apparel, two pairs of shoes , jackets and midweight layers, and two toiletry bags. This helped us understand the storage capacity of each bag, as well as the organizational logic. In the process, we evaluated the durability of the zippers, clips, and buckles and the utility of the internal and external pockets.

Once packed full, we tested maneuverability by pushing (and pulling) the rolling suitcases on both two and four wheels across a smooth surface, a rug, and a rough and uneven surface. We also simulated placing the luggage through security and into an overhead bin to judge whether the bags were too heavy when fully packed. This allowed us to evaluate the overall fit of the bag, how handles or excess straps either helped or hindered storage, and whether or not compression straps helped streamline the suitcase's profile.

Durability—a key feature for all carry-on luggage—was tested by tossing the suitcase off a high shelf three times. We then hit it repeatedly (and in several different places) with a baseball bat. Finally, we thoroughly examined each suitcase for scrapes, dents, or other signs of damage and re-did the rolling/maneuverability tests to ensure that we recorded any impact on the wheels or handles. Products were then scored from one to five for capacity, design, organization, durability, maneuverability, and value.

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Carry-On Expandable Spinner 22" :  For frequent travelers who can invest a bit more upfront for an extremely durable suitcase, this is a no-brainer. The interior featured a less-than-intuitive expansion feature and our tester struggled with the zippers.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag :  Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

What to Look For in Carry-On Luggage for Men

You can find a decent carry-on for less than $100, but higher-end luggage benefits from more durable materials, better organization systems, and other nice-to-have features such as USB charge ports or a TSA-approved combination lock.

Carry-on suitcases are measured in two ways: storage capacity and overall dimensions. The latter indicates whether the suitcase qualifies as a carry-on , a designation dictated by the dimensions of an airplane’s overhead bin space. Exact sizing varies by airline but generally, a suitcase that measures around 22 x 14 x 9 inches will pass.

Storage capacity is measured in liters. Our testing focused on suitcases with enough packing space for a four-day trip in the fall. Some suitcases include expandable sections (typically via a zippered opening), which afford more storage space—though using them can sometimes push the carry-on beyond the dimensions allowed. Compression straps (inside and sometimes outside) can help streamline the profile/dimensions of some softside luggage.

The best softside luggage typically features woven polyester and nylon fabrics including Cordura, ballistic, or ripstop. Hardside carry-ons should feature high-tech plastics like ABS or polycarbonate. Be sure that any fabric seams are double-stitched, adding durability to those critical parts of the suitcase. The zippers should glide smoothly and feel solid and robust. The wheels should roll smoothly, and the telescoping handle should be made of a lightweight yet durable material such as aircraft-grade aluminum.

Other Features

Most travelers love carry-ons with plenty of interior organization, including mesh or clear zippered pockets for smaller items, dedicated areas for dirty shoes or clothes, garment bags for carrying suits, and dedicated toiletries bags. Pockets on the outside for quick-grab items like your boarding pass, passport, or water bottles are also a big win, as are dedicated pockets for laptops and tablets, luggage trackers , and “security” pockets. Some also come with integrated TSA-approved locks.

Telescoping handles that are lockable at various heights add versatility, internal and external compression straps help maintain a streamlined profile, and a variety of grab handles make it easier to maneuver the carry-on into the overhead bin. The tech-savvy should consider a suitcase with a dedicated spot for a battery pack that integrates with an external USB port to charge devices. For non-rolling suitcases like backpacks and duffels , be sure that the strap system evenly distributes weight and that the back panel is made of breathable mesh.

When it comes to luggage, better is slightly subjective. Hardside and softside suitcases both have their benefits and cater to different types of travel. Softside cases are typically lighter than their hardside counterparts, and because the fabric flexes considerably, they’re easier to pack to the limit and will compress slightly when you put the suitcase in an overhead bin or under a seat. They are also more likely to have exterior storage pockets. But you may sacrifice some protection, and the fabric can be prone to ripping or stains, though most high-quality softside carry-ons have pretty durable materials with weatherproof treatments to help block moisture penetration. 

Today’s hardside suitcases use ultra-durable, lightweight materials like ABS or polycarbonate and typically feature a 50/50 clamshell opening so that you can pack the suitcase evenly. They’re great if you’re packing fragile items like camera gear, and most boast loads of organization to help keep everything in its place. The rigidity does make it tough to over-pack , and the fixed dimensions can be a pain to store when not in use. But they really stand up to the elements and the inevitable abuse encountered on the open road or when you’re forced to check the carry-on. They can scuff or scratch more easily than softside luggage, although the best ones flex on impact to prevent damage.

Whether traveling for business or a wedding, there are several ways to keep your suit wrinkle-free in transit. Some suitcases come with a dedicated suit garment bag. But even if your carry-on doesn’t have that feature, you can still fold the suit in a way that should avoid excessive wrinkling. Lay the jacket down, fold the left shoulder back, turn the right shoulder inside out, and tuck the left into the right shoulder. Fold it in half lengthwise, then fold it horizontally. Then lay the compressed jacket across the length of the pants and fold the pants over to create one compact package, which you then lay flat in your suitcase.

Most carry-ons are durable and can handle the typical bumps and scrapes of travel. But if your suitcase does get dirty, there are ways to clean it. You can spot-clean softside suitcases with a damp cloth, and if you have more stubborn stains, you can use a gentle cleaning product—just be sure that the cleaner won’t remove any sort of weather-resistant treatment. Most suitcase manufacturers should provide detailed guidelines. Hardside carry-ons can typically be wiped clean with a microfiber cloth to remove modest scuffs and scrapes, and the plastic materials will also stand up to more rigorous scrubbing. Luggage of all kinds should be stored dry in a cool place away from direct sunlight.

Nathan Borchelt has been rating, testing, and reviewing outdoor and travel apparel for decades. In researching this article, he collated the input from the testing team and then layered in additional research, including input from both professional reviews and verified customers to access all the qualities of each carry-on, including durability, packability, mobility, and the overall value-to-price ratio.

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Home > General Travel > Men's Minimalist Packing List

56 Travel Essentials for Minimalist Men (Packing List v. 6.0)

The sixth update of the 56-item packing list of minimimalist travel essentials for men that I've been fine-tuning for over a decade.

A Man is Judged by the Size of His Bag

In The Devil Wears Prada , Meryl Streep's character said, "You can always judge a woman by her bag." (…Probably. I never watched the movie.) I don't know about her general advice, but if she'd been talking about a traveler, she'd have been spot on.

You are what you pack.

A man with an enormous bag? Overcautious, inexperienced, and indecisive. And probably sweaty.

A man who can go for months with just a daypack? That's a happy camper who knows what's up.

And since you're reading this blog, you probably want to be the latter. So, without further ado, here's my go-to minimalist packing list for men that I've been perfecting for over a decade.

Minimalist Men's Travel Essentials Packing List

Big picture.

Because minimalist men always look at the big picture first. Click any to jump straight to it.

• 6 Bags – 2.3 lb
• 18 Clothes  – 8.4 lb
• 2 Shoes  – 1.5 lb
• 12 Electronic s – 5.5 lb
• 8 Toiletries – 0.5 lb
• 10 Miscellaneous – 0.8 lb
• Only Pack if Really Necessary

DO NOT Pack

TOTAL: 56 items, 19.5 lb

An Honest Packing List

As proof to you that my recommendations are legitimate and not money-grabbing affiliate links, I've included photos of me using my packing list items everywhere possible.

6 items, 2.3 lbs / 1.1 kg

• 1 laundry bag
• 3 ziploc bags

1.9 lb / 878 g

Ideal Specs:

• 32 liters or less
• Side water bottle pockets
• Reasonably lightweight but durable
• Easy-access front pocket
• Zippers with holes in them you can put a lock through
• Washing machine friendly
• Chest buckle but no bulky waist strap
• Laptop sleeve.

Recommendation:

After nine wonderful years, my trusty old Patagonia Fuego backpack got so decrepit that even Patagonia's repair team told me there was nothing they could do about it.

So I went hunting for a replacement?a modern upgrade to my old bag. I tell the story of the ups and downs of how I chose my backpack here .

To cut to the chase, I ended up with an Osprey Nebula .

We've only been together for two months, so maybe I'm still in the honeymoon phase, but so far I'm smitten. It has everything my old backpack had, but fresher and slightly better arranged. Its multitude of pockets is far from "minimalistic," but I find this makes it easier to manage all the items I pack.

8.2 oz / 232 g

I pack a super lightweight bag for carrying stuff around during the day.

Messenger bags are the best for this. Unlike backpacks, I don't need to take them off to get into them and I can swing them in front of me when in crowded pickpocket-prone places.

Recommendation: 

My 15L Patagonia Travel Courier conveniently stuffs into a little pouch that fits right in the front pocket of my backpack.

I like that it has a couple of water bottle holders (which I also often use as a quick-access pocket for my phone), a couple of secure zipped compartments, and an easily adjustable, comfortable shoulder strap.

Update: Patagonia no longer makes this bag. No other reputable company makes anything similar, either. For a replacement, I'd go back to what I used to have: an even lighter-weight sling like this one . Alternatively, I may get this inexpensive courier bag from Decathlon that Taylor recommended in the comments.

1 Laundry Bag

0.4 oz / 10 g

To separate your dirty laundry from clean clothes.

Any plastic bag will do, but you can get some fancy synthetic fabric bag if you have money to burn.

3 Ziploc Bags

1.2 oz / 36 g

• One for electronics. Put your little cords and Kindle and phone in a Ziploc bag. Even double-bag to avoid disaster.
• One for toiletries. Forget fancy toiletry bags.
• One for anything else. Like snacks, for example.

18 items, 8.4 lb / 3.8 kg

• 1 pair of pants
• 1 pair of nice shorts
• 2 sports shorts
• 2 pairs of socks
• 2 pairs of underwear
• 1 button-up
• 1 long-sleeved layer
• 1 sweatshirt
• 1 waterproof shell

Maximum Flexibility for Minimalist Packing

A minimalist packing list requires maximum flexibility, so I ensure every piece of clothing matches with the others. I also always choose easy-to-wash, difficult-to-stain, and quick-to-dry fabrics? especially merino wool ?over cotton.

1 Pair of Pants

1 lb / 459 g

• Look somewhat dressy, so they can be worn on many occasions, but still feel sporty and comfortable
• Deep pockets so things don't fall out of them in buses and cars
• Quick-dry fabric (not cotton)
• Drawstring (so no need for a belt)

Lululemon ABC Pants  look like khakis but are super stretchy and comfortable. The fabric is quick-drying and easy to maintain. The only knock on them is they don't have a drawstring, so be sure to get a perfect-fitting waist.

I wore them just about every day during our six months in Colombia   on everything from hikes to fancy dinners and they did the job perfectly .

1 Pair of Everyday Shorts

8.8 oz / 250 g

• Versatile enough to be able to wear out to restaurants but also on active excursions
• Drawstring (to avoid the extra weight of a belt)
• Deep pockets (protection from pickpockets and inadvertent escape of valuables)

My have exceeded my high expectations for them (even given their high?$125!?price) since I got them in May 2019.

And, most importantly, Kim loves them too! Unlike my previous go-to travel shorts, she has no problem with me wearing these out to dinner and other events where I need to be "presentable." So I wear them all the time.

For more about what I like (and don't like) about these shorts, see my in-depth review, Outlier New Way Shorts: Overhyped, Imperfect, and Awesome , and my 3 favorite men's shorts for travel, sports, style, and comfort .

2 Pairs of Sport Shorts

17 oz / 490 g

• Big front pockets that can safely hold your phone.
• Zipper pocket to hold cash, cards, and keys.
• At least one black pair, so it can double as a backup pair of regular shorts.
• Long enough so they can double as regular walking-around shorts.

Lululemon's Pace Breaker Shorts  are, simply put, my favorite sports shorts ever .

I've tried similar pairs from Patagonia, Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and more, but none have supplanted the Pace Breakers from their title.

Lululemon stands by their stuff, too. I brought in one 5-year-old pair that had seriously faded and they simply swapped it for a new one.

2 Pairs of Socks

2.8 oz / 80 g

• Black ankle socks
• Wool for less smelliness

My sister got me a couple of pairs of Darn Tough ankle socks for my birthday and I don't think I'll ever buy other socks again.

I'm so happy with them that they inspired a whole blog post on How to Pick Gifts Even Better than Santa: 8 Unconventional Tips .

Not only are these socks darn tough (they have a lifetime guarantee) but they're darn comfortable and darn stink resistant.

2 Pairs of Underwear

5.6 oz / 160 g

• A fly, or whatever the hole pulling your pecker out of is called.
• Extra, super, duper quick-dry material. You'll want to wash these with you in the shower, so they need to dry quickly.

Icebreaker Anatomica Boxers. My go-to used to be Tilley Travel Boxer Briefs, which are almost equally fantastic, but the Icebreaker's 83% merino wool provides better insulation and odor-fighting than Tilley's 100% polyester.

I like both pairs better than the MeUndies, ExOfficio, Saxx, Patagonia, and Under Armour pairs I've also tried.

10.6 oz / 300 g

Up until 2018, I was happy with plain 100% polyester singlets. They packed light and stayed reasonably cool.

Then I got a merino wool tank from the Icebreaker shop at the outlet mall. It's lighter, cooler, and way less smelly. And by less smelly, I mean even when it gets drenched with sweat from a workout, it hardly smells after it dries. So I barely wear my old synthetic singlets anymore.

My slight preference is for my Unbound merino tank (discontinued) I got in 2019 because it's softer, though a bit heavier (which looks nicer but isn't as cooling). Of the other brands I have, I prefer the Smartwool tanks over Icebreaker's Anatomica tanks .

1 Plain T-Shirt

5.7 oz / 162 g

Recommendation(s):

The Outlier Ultrafine Merino Tee .

I had no problems with my Icebreaker Cool-Lite Sphere merino t-shirts (still don't), but Outlier offered me one so I said why not. Maybe I'd love it as much as I do their shorts . If not, I'd give it to my brother, who was visiting us in Cape Town .

Well, as you can see in the photo above, I'm wearing the shirt and my brother isn't.

The Outlier tee's heavier than Icebreaker's, but it's noticeably softer too and still insulating enough to keep me cool in here in the South African summer. I instinctively put it on instead of my Icebreaker ones, so I guess I like it more.

November 2022 Update: I put my money where my mouth is and bought a couple more Outlier t-shirts?this time in darker colors so that they don't show sweat stains and other marks as much.

1 Button-Up Collared Shirt

• Lightweight, so it can double as a beach shirt that protects you from the sun
• Chest pocket, which is handy for boarding passes
• Wrinkle resistant

The Wool&Prince wool-linen button-down shirt .

It has the relaxed, casual look of a linen shirt with the odor-fighting and stain-repelling benefits of merino wool. This makes it perfect for travel, especially to the warm-weather places Kim and I prefer to visit.

?nearly perfect.

While the linen gives the shirt a cooler look and feel than pure merino, it also makes the shirt more wrinkle-prone. But not so wrinkly my wife won't let me wear it. And not nearly as wrinkly as the 100% linen shirts I own, which I never end up wearing because I rather not go out than have to iron a shirt.

1 Long-Sleeved Layer

7.9 oz / 225 g

• Lightweight but warm.
• Not too sporty-looking, so it can be worn around the city without looking like a granola outdoors-enthusiast who's trying to signal how adventurous they are.
• Snug enough to be a mid or base layer, but not so snug that it suffocates my torso.

I've gone through a lot of these shirts, from Costco brand to Patagonia. (I actually liked the Costco brand one more.)

As of October 2020, I've been experimenting with something different: an alpaca wool base layer from Arms of Andes .

The team there read my post on merino wool's pros and cons , contacted me to tell me alpaca's better, then sent me the shirt to prove it.

So far, so intriguing.

The shirt is incredibly warm for its weight; I've been comfortable wearing just it and a t-shirt this fall in 10?C/50?F temperatures. And I've yet to wash it (as of Nov 2022!) despite wearing it for dozens of outdoor workouts . I probably should wash it, but it's annoyingly hand-wash-only, so I just air it out in the sun, which seems to be good enough.

The fabric feels nearly as soft as cashmere, but it also has the same slightly scratchy feel on bare skin (which good merino wool doesn't have).

1 Sweatshirt

15.5 oz / 439 g

• Black or grey for easy matching and stain resistance
• Zip-up front for better climate control
• A hood for extra warmth and to cover up messy hair

I don't know anymore.

In the photo above, I'm probably on my phone researching the best hoodies out there.

I like the performance and zip pockets of my Icebreaker Quantum II hoodie , but hate its stupid-looking and uncomfortable scuba-style hood, so I wouldn't buy it again.

Whenever it falls apart, I figure out how to make enough money off this blog to not feel bad about replacing a perfectly good sweatshirt with a new-er one, or I convince Unbound to give me one for free, I'll replace it with their compact travel hoodie .

1 Lightweight Jacket

12.8 oz / 362 g

• Zipper pockets
• Inner chest pocket
• Water-resistant
• Packable into a pouch

Patagonia's Nano Puff Jacket  because it exactly meets every one of my criteria.

Kim liked mine so much, she got herself one and now considers it one of her 15 top travel essentials .

1 Waterproof Shell

13 oz / 371 g

• Waterproof (This may sound obvious, but many a dumbass has bought a water-resistant shell thinking it's waterproof)
• Zip-up front
• At least one outside pocket

This type of jacket is a dime-a-dozen. Go with REI or MEC or some other reputable outdoor brand that stands behind their product quality. Or go to an outlet mall. That's where I found a good deal on my Lululemon waterproof jacket , which is doing the job for me.

2 oz / 60 g

Get a hat you don't mind squashing in the bottom of your bag, not some pristine New Era cap with the sticker still on it.

If you're going somewhere cold, pack a knitted cap instead of a baseball hat.

In October 2020, I said sayonara to the weathered red trucker cap with my brother's business on the front and got something more technical: Lululemon's Fast and Free Run Hat Elite .

Yeah, "Elite."

I don't need an "elite" hat for my travel purposes. But its lightweight, easy-care, and inconspicuousness do the trick for me.

I also considered a cap from Ciele . A lot of people love them but I refuse to pay a premium price let them plaster their brand name in giant letters atop my forehead.

6 oz / 171 g

Get a lightweight, quick-dry (not cotton!) towel. This is the rare item of which you don't want to get the smallest size possible. It should be big enough to wrap around your waist.

These towels serve the additional purpose of being beach blankets, and you can tuck them under your hat too for Arab-style neck and shoulder protection.

The large-sized PackTowl from MEC has served me well for longer than I can remember. (Or, better put, longer than I've been keeping track of everything with my lifelogging practice.)

2 items, 2.0 lb / 0.9 kg

• 1 pair of sandals
• 1 pair of runners

1 Pair of Sandals

13 oz / 374 g

• Durable, so the strap doesn't fall apart when you're in the middle of nowhere. This seems to happen to some friend of mine and their Havaianas every other trip.
• Not stinky. Constant exposure to sweaty bare feet can make cheap sandals a noxious threat to everything else you pack with them in your bag or to a whole room when you take them off.
• Comfortable enough to be able to walk in all day long without forming blisters or rashes.
• Good for my feet.

Most of you reading this will not like my recommendation. It's not stylish nor particularly practical. But it makes up for it in terms of functionality.

My recommendation:

Shamma's performance sandals .

Since I got my Maximus sandals in October 2022, they're the only shoe I've worn?for hiking, running, errands, and even going out for dinner, though Kim wasn't happy with that style choice.

They're easily my favorite purchase of the year.

I used to wear Xero Cloud barefoot sandals, but they go beyond minimalist into the realm of flimsiness. They'd hurt my knees when walking on cement, especially when lugging around my 1.5-year-old son. I also could never get the straps just right and they were never comfortable.

These Shammas have none of those problems. They're comfortable, have easy-to-adjust straps, and have a thick enough sole to pad my joints for city strolling.

The downsides are the straps look Jesus-hippy-esque and you can't slip them on hands-free like regular flip-flops. But Katy Bowman convinced me in her book, Move Your DNA , that flip-flops can mess up your feet, so I suck it up, bend over to put them on, and look kind of stupid.

I got the plain black version because that's all I could find in Vancouver, Canada. If I were in the US, I'd get one of their brown leather models, which Kim says don't look so bad.

1 Pair of Running Shoes

1.2 lb / 194 g

• Black, so they don't show dirt and can be worn in cities with pants without looking too stupid.
• Super lightweight. You should be able the easily bend them in half.
• Zero drop (i.e., no elevation of the ankles relative to the toes).

The above photos are of Lems Primal 2s . I've gone through two pairs over the past three years. They're a solid alternative to the fancier, pricier, and more popular Vivobarefoot Primus shoes that Kim wears .

But the soles are a bit too thin for some of the jumping and baby-carrying I do on unforgiving surfaces, so my newest and yet-to-be-fully-tested?or even photographed?addition to this packing list is a pair of thicker-soled Lems Primal Zen shoes .

Given my positive experience with the Primal 2s, I'm feeling pretty confident?"zen," even??that these new Zens will work out great.

Electronics

13 items, 5.5 lb / 2.5 kg.

• Laptop with case and charger
• Cell phone and case
• Extension cord
• USB charging cube

Laptop With Case And Charger

3.9 lb / 1785 g

I've got a Macbook, but I won't begrudge you if you prefer non-Apple products.

Cell Phone & Case

6.3 oz / 180 g

Get a ghetto case to diminish thieves' desire to steal it, but that's good enough to diminish the risk of cracking your phone's screen if you drop it.

Recommendation

Speck Presidio cases .

I had the same Speck case for over four years, and just replaced it this December. The new one costed something around $25, but I got the previous at Winners for $9.99.

Over the course of the four years I had it, the extraneous bits broke off (in true minimalist fashion), but it held my phone together. My screen has yet to crack (knock on wood) despite having dropped my phone dozens of times.

Don't cheap out on getting a local SIM wherever you go.

It's happened to me twice where I've gone to a country, decided against getting a SIM, put my phone on airplane mode, lost it, and couldn't find it because Find My iPhone doesn't work in airplane mode. I'm a slow learner, but now the first thing I do when I arrive in a foreign country is get a local SIM card. Do the same, no matter how cheap you are or disconnected you want to be.

E-Reader & Case

8 oz / 230 g

If you don't have a Kindle (or another brand of e-reader), get one already.

Don't bring your Kindle charger, though. Just bring a tiny USB to micro USB cord you can plug into your computer.

The Kindle Paperwhite . It's less than half the price ($120) of the newer Oasis model ($250) but has absolutely everything you'd ever need: enough storage to hold thousands of books, multiple-week-long battery life, super lightweight and durable, and a backlight for reading at night without bothering others.

An Extension Cord (My Secret Weapon)

9 oz / 250 g

You might think an extension cord is unnecessary, especially for a so-called minimalist packing list. Maybe you're right because I don't know if I've ever seen anyone else who packs one. But just because nobody else does it doesn't mean it's wrong. I'd argue the opposite.

I use my extension cord just about every day, everywhere I go. Not only does it allow me to reach distant plugs in airports, bus stations, and poorly designed hotel rooms, but it also doubles or triples the number of power outlets. It can be used as a clothesline or a rope in a pinch too.

Get a standard 12-foot cord , but make sure it is two-pronged, not three, so you can easily attach adaptors to it.

USB Wall Charging Cube

0.9 oz / 25 g

This you can use to charge your phone, headphones, and e-reader.

0.3 oz / 10 g

Your phone, computer, and Kindle can handle voltages from any country, so you just need a cheap dollar store adaptor.

You only need one adaptor if you get an extension cord with multiple sockets at the end of it.

Wireless Headphones

• Water-resistant enough not to get damaged from my excessively sweaty ears.
• Fit well enough not to fall out when doing handstands and jumping exercises.

Recommendation : 

After 5 happy years with Plantronics BackBeat FIT headphones , their microphone stopped working so I decided to try something new: the Apple AirPods Pro .

Enough people rave about them online already, so I'll spare you that. I don't even care much for the noise cancellation mode. I just care that they stay in my ears, have long enough batteries, and are durable. It's been 3 months and they've held up well so far. Give me another year before I join the choir of fanboys.

8 items, 0.5 lb / 0.2 kg

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Razor and shaving cream
• Toilet paper

Travel-Sized Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Floss

1.7 oz / 51 g total

If you don't floss, start. "One less thing to pack," is not an excuse.

Razor and Shaving Cream

2.4 oz / 70 g total

You lucky guys who can grow luscious full beards might not need this one and the next.

For splinters, in-growns, and whatever else is in you but shouldn't be.

One great tip from a reader is to bring the extra small ones from a Swiss Army knife. You can buy them individually at MEC in Canada for just $2.50 . I imagine you can find the same at similar outdoor stores like REI in other countries.

1.8 oz / 50 g

I went on a bit of a rant against sunscreen in our post on clich? travel tips and what to do instead , but you should still bring some.

Even if you're going to the UK, be optimistic. Just keep the bottle under 100 ml. so you can fly with it.

Toilet Paper In A Small Ziploc

1.1 oz / 30 g

Take out the tube. Always have some on you just in case.

Miscellaneous

10 items, 0.8 lb / 0.4 kg.

• Zipper lock
• Drivers license
• 2 Credit cards
• Travel insurance contact info
• 100 to 300 USD
• Water bottle

1 Zipper Lock

2.1 oz / 60 g

When I'm on an overnight bus or leaving my bag in the luggage storage at a hotel, having my zipper locked gives me a bit of peace of mind. Sure it can be cut, but a thief's likely to go to the next, unlocked bag instead.

I prefer locks with a flexible band, like these MasterLock ones that are around $12 for two.

1.3 oz / 38 g

I don't bother taking a printed copy but I do have a digital copy saved on my Google Drive.

Drivers License

0.2 oz / 5 g

For ID and for renting cars, if necessary.

2 Credit Cards

0.1 oz / 3 g

Take two because there's always the chance one gets canceled or lost or doesn't work with a certain ATM.

If you're a fellow Canadian, save yourself a bunch of money by getting one of the credit cards from my Best Canadian Credit Cards for International Travel post.

Travel Insurance Contact Card

0.1 oz / 2 g

I never thought of carrying a printed card with my travel insurer's contact info until a few of the travel insurance industry insiders I interviewed for my guide on how to buy the best travel insurance told me to.

If something bad happens, I need to call my insurer ASAP. If not, there's a risk I could have to pay a portion of the charges.

And if I'm too hurt to contact them, the hospital needs to know who's paying. Some foreign hospitals turn back injured travelers who don't have proof of insurance.

100-300 USD

0.4 oz / 11 g

I hope you don't mind me counting this as one item in my packing list, not three-hundred.

Always have cash as a backup. Keep it separated in two different hiding spots within your stuff. I often hide some in my rolled-up socks.

0.3 oz / 8 g

For filling customs forms and writing letters to put into bottles.

1 Carabiner

0.5 oz / 15 g

For attaching stuff (dirty wet clothes, shoes, water bottle) to the outside of your bag.

1 Water Bottle

6.7 oz / 189 g

Ideal Spec:

• Has a loop so you can attach it to your bag. If you don't fasten your water bottle to your bag while on the move, you're guaranteed to lose it at some point.

After years of not having a water bottle worth recommending for my minimalist packing list, I now have one:

The CamelBak Chute .

I immediately fell for it?so hard that it's already on my shortlist of favorite things I'd immediately buy again . As I wrote in that post:

The spout is the ideal size for chugging from when I?m super thirsty; the handy magnet keeps the cap from hitting my face when I?m drinking; and the size is perfect for backpack side pockets and car cup holders.

And, unlike many other things on my packing list, it's inexpensive. The only small downside is the "loop" isn't flexible like on a Nalgene, but hard plastic. I don't mind much, but Kim always points it out to me.

Only If Really Necessary

Bar of soap.

You can almost always get by using soaps and shampoos in the bathrooms on the road, but if you really don't want to risk it I particularly like my shampoo bar , which lasts forever and creates tons of suds for a complete head-to-toe wash.

I've managed to survive a lifetime without sunglasses ( Update: I now wear cheap ones to protect my eyes from sand when playing beach volleyball). If you insist, just make sure to get good ones with UV protection.

This is something I would normally buy on location, since it can be hard to predict whether bug spray will be needed or not.

Reader Suggestions

I don't pack the following but other readers do. Here are some small additional items to consider:

• Toothpick from a Swiss Army Knife. You can't take the knife if you're not checking a bag, but reader Barry swears by the toothpick. You can buy one for $1 at MEC in Canada or, I imagine, REI in the US or whatever the outdoor store is in your country.
• A small instrument. A little plastic flute like this one  or a harmonica. As the reader writes, "This will drive you crazy (and make you dizzy) for two weeks till you figure out how to play it, but once you do you can have a lot of joy." It's a great idea.
• A couple of USB flash drives.  These can be lifesavers if you're unable to back up your data to the cloud.

❌  A Big Wallet

Just carry a couple cards and maybe a money clip. You probably won't need your Costco card where you're going, so you don't need anything more than that.

❌  A Bathing Suit

Your sport shorts double as your bathing suit.

Sorry, Speedo lovers, but your banana hammock stays home.

❌  Zip-Off Pant/Shorts

I'm fine with making sacrifices to have a true minimalist packing list, but zip-off pant/shorts is taking it too far.

❌  Snacks

This may sound radical. It sure was radical to me. But now I believe in it and preach it far and wide.

You don't need snacks. Ever. So don't carry them. Not only does it lessen your load, but it may also reduce your jet lag .

It doesn't matter how long you're traveling. You can go days without food and without suffering. Before you dismiss this as insanity, read my fasting FAQ and tips and the story of my first three-day fast . It was enough to get Kim's parents to try it. Maybe it'll do the same for you.

Take a Load Off

Altogether, this minimalist packing list for men contains 56 items and weighs in at only 8.8 kg or 19.2 lb. And unless you're traveling around butt naked, you'll be typically wearing a good 5 lbs of that, so it'll weigh closer to 14 lb.

Everything fits into one small, nondescript, and easy-to-carry backpack. You won't have to roll your clothes to get them to fit in your bag, you won't be missing anything, and you'll be shaking your head every time you see a poor sucker with a needlessly giant bag.

Before You Pack Up and Leave…

What are your favorite items you'd have on your own minimalist packing list?

Do you think I missed anything or included something unnecessary?

Contribute in the comments  below.

Read This Next:

How to Travel To Change Who You Are

Long-Term Travel Packing List for Women: A Not-Too-Long List

Travel Essentials for Women: 15 Favorites to Never Forget

Update history.

I continuously update my minimalist packing list as new products and new technologies emerge and as I discover different brands and alternatives.

Here's the tracking of what I've changed.

November 2022 Update:

• I replaced most important item of my entire packing list, my backpack! Out with my faithful 9-year-old Patagonia Paxat and in with my very-similar-but-certainly-an-upgrade Osprey Nebula . Here's hoping this new relationship lasts just as long as my previous one.
• Since my Xero Cloud barefoot sandals provide no protection when walking on cement, I replaced them with so-far-so-amazing Shamma Maximuses .
• My J. Crew cotton hoodie wore out, so I replaced it with a technically-superior but comfort-ly-inferior Icebreaker Quantum II hoodie that, due to it's dumb hood, I will eventually replace with Unbound merino's compact travel hoodie .
• The MEC Aquanator Jacket that kept me dry since 2006 died of old age, so I replaced it with a Lululemon waterproof jacket .
• Someone stole my Oura Ring and I've decided not to replace it because A) It's expensive for a low-paid blogger like me and B) Thanks to what I've learned from the ring I now have a pretty good intuitive sense of how well I sleep and what factors help and hurt me. Plus, the new model has a monthly pricing plan which I refuse to support.

December 2020 Update:

• My third pair of Plantronics BackBeat FIT headphones bit the dust, so I decided to bite the bullet and try something new for the first time in 5 years with the AirPods Pro.
• I flip-flopped on my vow of eternal devotion to Crocs Swiftwater Flips and have mostly replaced them with less comfortable, less attractive, and less easy to wear Xero Cloud barefoot sandals. They're better for my feet and for intense exercise.
• The Unbound merino tank has usurped one of my Icebreaker Anatomica tanks .
• I replaced my quick-to-stink Patagonia Men's Capilene Zip-Neck with an Arms of Andes alpaca wool base layer in October, and I've yet to have to wash it despite heavy use in Vancouver's fall weather.
• My bit the dust. Or maybe too many moths bit it. Whatever the case, it had too many holes and frays after 3 years of heavy use so Kim made me throw it away. Until I find something better, I'm lounging in a regular cotton J. Crew hoodie.

February 2020 Update:

• The Outlier Ultrafine Merino Tee has proven itself to be finer than my Icebreaker Cool-Lite Sphere t-shirts.
• The Lems Primal 2 minimalist shoes have replaced my old New Balance 20v7 Minimus Trainers .
• After never having had a water bottle worth recommending, I discovered the CamelBak Chute , which I not only added to this list but also on the shortlist of my favorite things I'd immediately buy again.

July 2019 Update:

• My Venture Trek Tech shorts from Tilley had a great 10-year run, but have been replaced by my Outlier New Ways.
• My Patagonia Anatomic Sling bit the dust after 4 repairs and 7 years, so I replaced it with a Patagonia Travel Courier.
• Wool&Prince's wool-linen button-down shirt easily unseated the old linen shirt I got from a boutique in Sri Lanka and has now become my go-to here in Valencia, Spain.

May 2019 Update:

• Instead of any old pair of socks, I'm now all about Darn Tough.
• My Icebreaker Anatomica boxers have taken the title from my Tilleys for best underwear.
• My Lululemon t-shirts have been usurped in preference by my Icebreaker ones.

December 2018 Update:

• I now wear an Oura Ring sleep tracker everywhere I go, so it's earned its way onto the list along with its little charger.
• The Nike Free 5.0+ shoes have been kicked to the curb in favor of some even lighter, more comfortable, and, hopefully, more durable New Balance 20v7s.
• A technical merino tank top from Icebreaker has replaced the polyester ones I used to use.
• The Arcteryx Cover Cardigan's been swapped out for an Icebreaker hoodie.

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

31 thoughts on “56 Travel Essentials for Minimalist Men (Packing List v. 6.0)”

A good thing to attach to your bag is a Bluetooth tracker like Tile or Chipolo. In the event you misplace your bag, nearby you're able to ring it to make a sound and locate it on your phone.

The item is either to attach to your zipper or anywhere on your bag

That's a fantastic suggestion, Wes. Thanks! I hadn't heard of trackers like that, so I'm going to look into them right now…

Good list for general travel! I would appreciate if you stress this aspect from the start of the article.

"A man with an enormous bag is overcautious, inexperienced, and indecisive. And probably sweaty.

A man who can go for months with just a daypack? That’s a happy camper who knows what’s up." – This feels misleading.

If you were to go on a 1-2 week hike (or even a few days)in Peru or Nepal for example and you have to camp and cook, you would need a lot more stuff. The equipment you recommend is top quality and damm expensive, that's where some of the "weight loss" comes from. Also I agree that fasting works, just that it's a big difference if you do it in a controlled way or if you are climbing cold mountains.

Hey Sandu. You're totally right. A man who shows up with just a daypack for a multi-day trek is going to end up being the opposite of a happy camper! It's easy to distinguish between a guy carrying a big bag full of camping stuff en-route to a hike and one who's heading to their luxury Airbnb while carrying a big bag full of unnecessary trinkets, shoes, and clothes though, don't you agree?

Hey. Agree… was just a little frustrated cause I read the article on phone and went through it all just to find that there is no camping equipment included 🙂 Guess it was more about expectations, other than that it is a really good list!

What’s your thoughts on deodorant…no seriously. I’ve found that using deodorant gets on the inside of my Icebreaker shirts and gives bacteria a place to live. The armpits start to smell after 2-3 times of wearing them.

Hey Tim. I've found the exact same, which is why I don't pack deodorant. On average I've experienced that not using deodorant keeps me less stinky… but there are still some seemingly random times when my pits explode with B.O.

For that reason, when I'm not traveling and going to some social event, I sometimes apply deodorant to "keep me covered" for a few hours, even though I know later in the night, hopefully after I'm home, it'll probably make me smell worse.

You forgot deodorant. Or don't use any?

Hey Emilio, Yeah I don't pack it when I'm packing light. See my response to the previous comment for my take on deodorant.

Hey Chris, I was looking to get a good packable backpack for my upcoming trip to Thailand and found this backpack https://the-most-functional-packable.kckb.st/96ac29dc on Indiegogo. What do you think about it? Looks like a great backpack for travel, I was just looking for some opinions before I made my decision… By the way, I love the content you have been posting lately 🙂

Hey Nic. At 10oz/280g that bag's impressively light. I guess it'd take the place of the messenger bag day pack in my packing list. I prefer the messenger style in general because it's easier access than a backpack, but if you're going to hike a lot or carry heavy laptops and whatnot this style will be more comfortable. If you get it, keep us posted on what you think of it. Enjoy Thailand!

A lot of this is going to depend on where you are going, with who, and what activities you want to be prepared for.

Hiking or camping will have a whole different set of priorities than a bar-hopping trip, or a trip to visit the red light district.

A trip to another country by plane to go on walking tours will have significantly different needs than a road trip to the next state to visit a museum.

I totally agree. This packing list can serve as a guide that people can alter based on specific needs. I do the same myself.

Have to say I've never packed specifically for a trip to visit the red light district, though! Please do write a post on that packing list.

How do you wash your clothes? With so few you'd have to wash daily usually, no?

Hey Rick. I normally use soap I scrounge up wherever I'm staying. Sometimes a packable laundry stick if I'm feeling fancy. It's really just the underwear and socks that need washing. The rest, especially the merino stuff, lasts a long time before needing a clean.

This post should have been named the ultimate guide of the packing lists for men. Because it has covered everything a guy needs to pack while traveling.

How are you liking the Lems Primal Zen shoes so far? I also had a pair of Primal 2s that I loved and have been eying these after I wear my current shoes out.

Hey Andy — I've barely worn them so far because I got my Shamma sandals at about the same time and those have been able to do everything I've needed. On the one hike I took the Zens on, they did the trick. It'll be another 6 months minimum before I have enough experience to compare them to the Primal 2s.

Just curious, what does Kim's list look like?

A long longer than mine! She listed some of the items here: https://www.theunconventionalroute.com/packing-list-for-women/

• Pingback: The 7-Step Self-Improvement Plan That Works (If You Do)

Hi Chris! This is a great list and article. It was super helpful for me my first time backpacking Europe last year. I have purchased many of the items. Thanks for keeping it updated! The courier bag was one of my favorite items. You said there is nothing like it, but I found this one at a Decathlon sporting goods store in Italy last year. Here is the link to the item on their website to order one. Hope this helps!

https://www.decathlon.sg/p/trekking-15l-compact-messenger-bag-forclaz-travel-black-forclaz-8560413.html

Hi Taylor. Glad you found the list helpful. And thanks for sharing the link for the courier bag! Will update now to mention it. Happy travels.

nail file/emory board! (didn't see cheap clippers which could also serve)- not just for that one snagged nail- but to file off …all kinds of things (think prison breakout!).

chapstick. I have the addiction. Ok ok – lip balm of some sort.

OH yeah – I didn't know what that ring thing is – had to look it up.

And….zip ties – I bring about a half dozen. useful for so many temporary securities – take no space or weight.

headlamp -saving the stubbed toes when peeing in the middle of the night – and other usees

list of emergency contact people at home

something else i wanted to mention -but too tired.

I like the zip tie and emergency contact ideas. Thanks, Suzie

I can’t believe how much overly detailed words I read to just have my few deleted because of all the Fn too many ads on your blog. It’s like such a hypocritical thing just like your judgment on others pack size comment I wonder what a blog with sooo many ads says about a person?? Yet I will hold my tongue. In hopes this doesn’t get deleted I’ve never once thought I need an extension cord. Thou I liked you find it helpful for needs. I like a universal adapter with multi usb plug-ins including a quick charging c I also bring small individual country plug bit as often in like Europe not as easy to just plug that adapter just straight into extension cords supplied at accommodations. A portable battery bank with all the cords attached to itself. Makes sense as solo traveling to always get charges on the go because how often I use google maps ! E SIM card way easier less Sea to summit x-seal large bowl for breakfast at Airbnb /accommodation plus can take breakfasts with to early flights ect to avoid spending more than tasty. I like a no sugar protein bar in pack incase thou nothing more and recommend always making sure getting balanced diet when travelling so are healthy to avoid getting sick 😉 Anywho luck being the individual that you each are and remember apart of the experience of getting to know yourself is figuring this all out on your own. Or ask Kim what she thinks

Haha. All the ads say "I'm not an independently wealthy person and I rather not try to make money by making affiliate commission by pimping things I wouldn't buy myself, so I let a company put ads on my site to pay my bills." If you can suggest better ways to monetize, I'm all ears. Thanks for your packing suggestions!

Absolutely love the packing list. I travel with something very similar and have exactly the same backpack as you – Osprey Nebula.

I have a question about how you lock it; do you use the padlock through the zips themselves or the tassels that attach to the zips? And which compartment do you lock, the main compartment and/or the laptop sleeve?

Thanks for the help,

Thanks Brad. Good question. Since getting the bag, I haven't traveled anywhere where I needed to lock it. When I do, I'll get one of those little locks with the wire that will fit on the zips (not the tassels, which will be too easy to cut). Or two? Depends on where I put my valuables. I'd probably just lock the main one.

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The 8 Best Mens Travel Bags for Every Kind of Trip

From hard-shell luggage to leather weekenders and durable backpacks, these carriers will have him jet-setting in style.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

From there, it's up to you decide the kind you might make the most use of. From leather weekenders for short getaways with the guys, to garment bags that keeps your business suits wrinkle-free for work trips, to hard-shell suitcases for 2-week voyages abroad, here are some of the best travel bags every man should add to his travel rotation.

Best Weekender

Troubadour weekender.

Best Duffle Bag

Filson leather-trimmed twill duffle bag.

Best Carry-On

Rimowa original cabin in silver.

Whether you're going away overnight or heading out of town for a couple of days, this sleek weekender fits a ton without weighing a ton. There are also several interior and external pockets for smaller necessities, as well space for a laptop.

Material: Recycled polyester fabric, recycled polyester lining, vegan leather trim

Dimensions: 19" W x 13" H x 9" D

Is this not the chicest duffle bag you've ever laid your eyes on? Made of hard-wearing twill with a leather trim, this equestrian-inspired Filson carrier was made to last and gets better with wear. Beyond that, it has endless space for all your essentials and makes packing a breeze.

Material: Twill/Leather

Dimensions: 19.7" x 11.8"

If you're an avid T&C reader, you'll know we're team carry-on , and team carry-on only. The Cadillac of luggage, this aluminum TSA-approved option is not only durable and lightweight, but it's also supremely spacious and can hold a week's worth of clothes (perhaps even more if you own compression bags).

One reviewer writes : "Luxurious, sturdy, beautiful. My favorite luggage. We travel everywhere together and it has never let me down. "

Material: Aluminum

Dimensions: 21.7 x 15.8 x 9.1 inch

More: The Very Best Carry-On Luggage to Take With You on Your Next Trip

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

This backpack is a game-changer because it packs as a suitcase and features tons of built-in pockets, a removable tech kit for wires and gadgets, garment compression panel, padded laptop compartment, and more.

One reviewer writes: "Perfect in every aspect. Fits overhead fits under seat. It’s a backpack with the features of a well compartmentalized suitcase and so much more. It’s also quite elegant and very well made. I got so many compliments on this backpack. Totally worth the money. In an age when overhead bags are just small, hard suitcases this bag will have you in and out of the overhead in a jiffy while others pull and tug."

Material: Polyester, Recyclex

Dimensions: 12.5" L x 7" W x 20" H

More: The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Away The Large

If you must check a piece of luggage, consider this Away option which boasts a sturdy polycarbonate shell and can fit two-weeks-worth of outfits. Customers also claim Away has top-notch customer service that can assist with any issues you might face.

One reviewer writes: "Love this luggage, it’s beautiful, it’s practical and efficient and it holds up to the wear and tear of traveling so well! Highly recommend."

Material: 100% Polycarbonate Shell

Dimensions: 29" x 20.5" x 12.5"

Mark & Graham Harvey Leather Overnighter

Go bespoke with a monogrammed weekender from Mark & Graham. Made of supple pebbled leather, the timeless style offers substantial room for long weekend getaways; there's even a space designed specifically for shoes.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 11" H x 18" W x 9.5" D

Tumi Alpha Garment Bag Tri-Fold Carry-On

Tumi makes some of the best luggage around, and its garment bag is no exception. Perfect for the businessman who frequently travels for work, this compact carrier can hold up to two suits with ample space for toiletries.

One reviewer writes: "[It] keeps the suits and shirts crisp and wrinkle free. Very handy for business travel."

Material: Ballistic Nylon

Dimensions: 15.0" x 22.0" x 6.0"

Halfday Travel The Garment Duffel

This looks like your ordinary duffle bag, but it actually also doubles as a garment bag. A hanging compartment can hold up to three suits and when all zipped up, there's even more space for tees, jeans, and other folded clothes, as well as a dedicated compartment for a pair of shoes. Genius.

One reviewer writes: "This bag is better than I even expected, and I expected a lot. The design is amazing. It holds a ton, way more than I'd need for a weekend. The quality appears to be solid... It is a beautiful bag."

Material: Polyester

Dimensions: 22" L x 12" H x 12" D

Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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The 12 Best Personal Item Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Every bag on our list is compact enough to fit under an airplane seat.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Over the course of your travels, you may have found yourself wondering, “What exactly does count as a personal item?” After all, we know it’s not the same thing as a carry-on. The simple answer? A personal item is any bag that fits under the airplane seat in front of you, though the precise dimensions of these bags vary by carrier. You can use pretty much any bag ranging from duffels and weekenders to backpacks and sling bags , but for the most part, they should be under 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

For this article, we tested nearly 50 personal item bags both in our New York City lab and in real-world settings over the past six months, paying close attention to capacity, design, ease of use, comfort, portability, durability, and value. The picks listed below performed the highest in all categories. 

Best Overall

July carry all weekender.

It’s lightweight, protective, and compact yet spacious. 

It may be too small for longer trips (or chronic overpackers).

It’s no wonder this bag snagged our best overall category — it truly has everything. From its spacious main compartment and its abundance of pockets to its comfy, padded shoulder strap, July’s Carry All Weekender just makes travel easy. A designated protective laptop sleeve, a large front pocket, and several interior slip pockets allow for streamlined organization, while subtle cushioning on the strap and soft leather on the top handles keep things comfy no matter how you choose to carry it. The bag even boasts a trolley sleeve so travelers can easily attach it to their rolling luggage. On top of all that, it’s ultrasleek and compact enough to fit under an airplane seat with room to spare.

Because it’s on the smaller side, we did find we could only fit a day or two’s worth of clothing in the bag during our tests. However, seeing as we’d use this as a personal item bag and not an actual carry-on, we thought that was fair. We feel it works perfectly as both a weekend trip bag and as an everyday option for remote workers .  

The Details: 10.5 x 18 x 8.5 inches | 2.2 pounds | 28-liter capacity | 16-inch laptop pocket | Nylon, leather

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Backpack

Solo re:define backpack.

It’s extremely lightweight and has seemingly unlimited space.

The straps are pretty close together, which may feel uncomfortable for those with wider shoulders or necks.

“I wouldn’t change anything about this backpack! It’s perfect!” is an actual quote from one of our editors who tried out the Solo Re:Define Backpack. It’s remarkably spacious thanks to a large main compartment with plenty of additional pockets and sleeves. No matter how much we stuffed inside, there seemed to be room for more. After packing it with a laptop, a tablet, a pair of shoes, a large toiletry bag, a shirt, a pair of pants, a quarter-zip jacket, a book, a wallet, keys, lotion, and AirPods, we still had room to spare — plus, the backpack remained lightweight and comfortable to carry. We also appreciated the anti-microbial coating during our tests, which made the backpack easy to clean with wipes. Other features we loved included padded straps, water-repellant construction, and a built-in USB port for mobile charging.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 1.43 pounds | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port | PET polyester

Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote

It’s extremely versatile and lightweight.

It’s kind of an odd size — too small to be a true tote but too large to be a true purse.

We’re not exaggerating when we say we’ve brought this purse-tote hybrid with us everywhere . From cross-country work trips to beach days to running errands around town, the Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote has been with us through it all, making our travels lighter and smoother every step of the way. It’s both impressively spacious and packed with pockets (including a laptop sleeve), and through our tests, we felt it distributes weight well. We loved the magnetic top closure and padded sleeves, and could not get over how cleanable, durable, and sustainable the fabric is. It makes the perfect personal item for travel because it’s large enough to fit a change of clothes and a laptop, but small enough to fit under a seat and pass as a purse.

The Details: 13 x 17 x 5 inches | 15-inch laptop pocket | Recycled nylon

Best Expandable

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

It’s both expandable and foldable — and it’s very sturdy.

It could use more pockets and organization features.

We brought the Le Pliage Expandable on a three-week trip to Europe, on various beach trips, on long road trips , and, of course, on a handful of flights. It fit everything on our four-day packing list with plenty of room to spare, and to no one’s surprise considering the brand’s popularity, it was a joy to bring everywhere . That’s due in part to the bag’s knack for carrying everything from multiple outfits and toiletries to water bottles and snacks. It also folds down into a small square, so you can easily pack it in your other luggage or store it when not in use. Despite its folding feature, the bag’s polyamide canvas and leather construction is quite durable — plus, it’s also expandable, so travelers can change the shape depending on what they’re carrying and where they’re stowing it. A reliable zip closure, a detachable shoulder strap, and efficient pocket space round out this lightweight underseat bag, but keep in mind that it will need to go into the overhead bin when fully expanded.

The Details: 13.8-20.5 x 17.7 x 9.1 inches | 1.5 pounds | 30-50-liter capacity | Polyamide canvas, leather

Best Hardside

Calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

It’s tiny yet spacious, smooth-rolling, and frankly pretty cute.

There are no exterior pockets, so travelers can’t easily remove items on the go.

It may be hard to believe a hardside spinner could fit under an airplane seat, but we can assure you the Calpak Hue Mini can. It’s cute and compact, yet it’s deep enough to fit the essentials and a bit more. (We easily packed two pairs of pants, a bomber jacket, flip flops, three shirts, and a laptop in a sleeve.) While the suitcase doesn’t have any exterior pockets, we appreciated the interior zip-around divider which boasts a mesh zip pocket and two sleeves, as well as two other small zip pockets on the other side of the interior. When placing the spinner underneath a plane seat , we found that it fit pretty much perfectly and additionally has some give despite its hardside shell. Back in our New York City lab, we ran it through an obstacle course and loved how smoothly it sailed through due to four high-quality spinner wheels and an overall sturdy construction. Other features we enjoyed were a built-in lock, a telescoping handle, and an additional top handle. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 9 inches | 6 pounds | 28-liter capacity | Polycarbonate, polyester

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Organization

Nomad lane bento bag v 3.0.

It’s packed with pockets and is extremely durable.

It’s one of the pricier options on this list.

If you’re the type of traveler who likes having a compartment for everything, you’ll love the V4 Bento Bag. Despite its small stature, we found it could easily fit everything on our packing list and more thanks to its impressive organization features. In addition to a spacious main compartment, travelers will find two zippered pockets that include two toiletry bags, as well as a bag for shoes or laundry, a laptop sleeve, and an almost overwhelming number of additional interior and exterior pockets.

During testing, we were delighted to discover every single one of the zippers on this bag ran smoothly rather than sticking or snagging. We also loved that it opens clamshell-style like a suitcase, which allowed us to see all of our items at once during the packing and unpacking process. After stuffing it with travel essentials and throwing it off a counter several times, we noticed neither the bag nor its contents were damaged in the least. So you can imagine our surprise when, despite its durability and many features, it still remained lightweight and comfy to carry. 

The Details: 17 x 8 x 10 inches | 2.76 pounds | 24-liter capacity | 16-inch laptop pocket | Nylon, leather

Best With Shoe Compartment

Calpak luka duffel bag.

It’s one of the comfiest bags to carry on our list, and it has plenty of organization features.

The laptop sleeve could use more padding.

This soft and squishable bag is full of pockets — our favorite one being the dedicated shoe compartment , which is noninvasive yet large enough for two pairs of shoes. Plus, the compartment is so subtle (it’s tucked into the main compartment via a separate side entrance) that you’ll barely even notice it’s there. But beyond the Luka Duffel’s special shoe storage space, we love this bag for its roominess and comfortable carry thanks to soft, malleable polyester and cushioned straps. On the exterior, you’ll find a laptop sleeve, a water bottle pocket, an additional small pocket, and a trolley sleeve, while the large interior boasts six pockets ranging from zippered mesh to slip pockets. While the bag does come with a removable shoulder strap, we feel the top handles are already long enough (and comfy enough) to use as shoulder straps. Despite its soft construction and lightweight build, the Luka sufficiently protected laptops and other fragile items during our drop tests. To top it all off, the bag comes in more than two dozen colors ranging from pastels to metallics to neutrals.

The Details: 12 x 16 x 7 inches | 2.1 pounds | 25-liter capacity | Laptop pocket | Polyester

Most Stylish

Mz wallace nik.

It’s nice to look at and features a whopping 16 pockets.

The shoulder strap isn’t very padded. 

If boxy black bags lacking any kind of stylish charm just aren’t your thing, opt for MZ Wallace’s Nik Duffel Bag. The shiny, quilted exterior paired with leather accents and gold or silver hardware is sure to win over even the most fashionable of travelers — plus, the shape is more like an elongated semicircle than a bulky cube. But its appearance isn’t the only winning detail: we found, through months of testing, that the bag easily fits four day’s worth of clothes and essentials thanks to its multiple pockets (seven externally, nine internally) and sizable main compartment. Our favorite pocket may just be the durable dedicated laptop pocket, though the huge exterior front pockets have come in quite handy as well. The zippers run smooth, the build is flexible, and the whole thing is surprisingly lightweight, even when stuffed to the brim. You can cop this bag in six colors including green-and-white plaid and Moondust Metallic Lacquer.  

The Details: 17 x 7 x 12.2 inches | 2.1 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket | REC Oxford, leather, nylon

Best Lightweight

Paravel fold-up backpack.

Weighing just 10 ounces when empty, this bag is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry.

Because it's so lightweight, the bag lacks structure.

A foldable bag is always smart to have on a trip, since you can easily stash it away when you don't need it. We love Paravel's Fold-up Backpack for many reasons, including its packability. But we also love the bag for how lightweight and easy it is to carry around. At just 10 ounces, you'll barely notice its weight when empty but won't be inconvenienced by its lack of structure — we still found it quite comfortable to carry around when it was packed full.

T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker is a big fan of this bag as well, noting that it folds down to the size of her hand, making it the perfect "just-in-case" bag, complete with a luggage sleeve. "For its size and weight, this Paravel backpack is plenty durable as I’ve packed it full on multiple occasions, and it still looks good as new," she says. "And of course, I also had to get my initials monogrammed since I’m never not choosing that if it’s available."

The Details: 13 x 16 x 9 inches (unfolded); 6 x 6.5 x 2.5 inches (folded) | 10 ounces | 8-liter capacity | Holds up to 15-inch laptop | Water-resistant Nylon

Best Splurge

Tumi voyageur oxford compact carry-on.

It fits a ton of stuff for its size, and it feels like a true luxury item.

You may have to lay it on its face to fit it under the seat.

Though this bag was technically designed as a carry-on, it meets the size requirements to count as a personal item, too — and that’s why we love it. It has far more built-in organization and space than the average personal item bag, having been constructed with two main compartments that were large enough for us to fit two pairs of pants, two shirts, a jacket, a toiletry bag, and a pair of shoes. It’s also full of pockets, including one exterior pocket, three interior pockets, and a laptop sleeve, so staying organized will never be an issue with this bag. Two interior zip dividers work wonders for separating wet or dirty clothes from the rest of your items, while four gliding wheels, a long telescoping handle, a smaller top handle, and a trolley sleeve provide plenty of carrying options. And, because this is Tumi , luxurious touches came as no surprise to us — though they did still impress us. A built-in USB port for on-the-go charging is subtle yet easily accessible, and a sleek logo luggage tag comes attached to the bag. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6.6 pounds | 21-liter capacity | 14-inch laptop pocket | USB port and cable | Nylon, leather

Best Budget

Hyc00 travel duffel bag.

It’s designed with just as many clever features as its higher-end counterparts. 

It’s on the longer side, so packing it too full may make it feel bulky.

The best thing about the HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag is it’s the ideal budget option but doesn’t feel like a budget option. During our tests, we quickly noticed just how comfy the bag was to carry — both the detachable shoulder strap and the top handles are soft and padded, which allowed us to carry the bag for a considerable bit of time without feeling pain or discomfort. It’s also slightly smaller than the average duffel , meaning it fits more easily under an airplane seat. But that’s not to say it’s lacking space — the duffel boasts two exterior zip pockets (one with a zipper and one without), two interior zipper pockets, and two interior mesh pockets. The bag is additionally crafted with luxe features typical of higher end bags, like a trolley strap and a zipper that can clasp down to make the duffel more compact.

The Details: 10.63 x 21.65 x 7.09 inches | 2 pounds | 35-liter capacity | Nylon

Caraa Studio Large Leather Tote

It’s stylish, convertible, and incredibly spacious.

There’s no luggage sleeve.

It came as no surprise to us that Caraa’s Studio Tote Leather wound up being our favorite tote — we’re long-time fans of the brand’s organizational features, after all. In addition to its spacious main section, this bag boasts a separate, exterior easy-access compartment (with its own zipper!), as well as a huge, padded laptop slot that zips shut. There are also dedicated pockets for a water bottle, passport, phone, and wallet. On top of that, there’s even a small pouch meant to house cosmetics and other small items connected to the rest of the bag by a strap. 

Perhaps the feature that impressed us most, though, was the tote’s ability to convert into a backpack thanks to a pair of extra straps. We love that you can fully detach those straps when not in use (so the bag looks like a regular zippered tote) but found they actually don’t look bad when left hanging on the bag, either. The multiple strap options make this a versatile pick, and, despite its spaciousness, we didn’t think it looked bulky, even on a smaller frame.

The Details: 13 x 18 x 7.5 inches | 2.4 pounds | 28.8-liter capacity | 16-inch laptop pocket | Leather, nylon

Other Personal Item Bags We Liked

We’ve tested so many personal item bags across multiple tests that we have a few more we can recommend, although they had some issues that kept them from earning perfect scores.

Herschel Classic Backpack XL : We liked this bag because it’s very spacious with a 30-liter capacity. However, there weren’t many pockets so keeping your things organized isn’t really an option, unless you add travel pouches . 

Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote : We’ve taken this on business and personal trips alike, and it always gets the job done in style. It fits plenty of stuff, but truthfully, it’s a little big — and the fact that it doesn’t fully zip closed at the top makes us slightly nervous when stowing it under the seat in front of us. 

Monos Metro Duffel : This sleek-looking bag has a ton of pockets including a removable pouch, which we appreciated. It’s also heavier than it looks despite its small size, and the zippers didn’t run quite as smoothly as others on our list. 

Bravado Hospital Tote : This bag impressed us with its spacious interior that fit everything on our packing list, plus several baby-specific items including bottles, diapers, clothing, and more. However, the placement of the shoulder strap attachment rings was awkward, causing the bag to fit extremely snug on our shoulders.

Mark & Graham Terminal 1 Expandable Travel Tote : This tote has a zipper feature that expands by an impressive 6 inches, but it doesn't have many organizational features. That being said, it's a good alternative to the Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag in our main list for a lower price point.

For this article, we thoroughly tested nearly 50 personal item bags both in our New York City lab and out in the real world to determine the best options. We then included the picks we loved the most in this article. 

We first examined the interior, exterior, and hardware materials of each bag, making note of elements that seemed to be of high quality. To accurately test the quality and capacity of each bag, we packed them full of various items for a two- or four-day trip depending on size, including dummy laptops, laptop and phone chargers, water bottles, shirts, pants, jackets, toiletry bags, underwear, socks, and shoes. While the type and number of items varied slightly between bag types (for example, more items fit in a weekender bag than a sling bag), the idea was to test each bag’s limits for its intended use to see how durable it was and how comfortable it was to carry. 

Once packed, we adjusted all straps and handles to ensure they fit us properly and walked around with them to see how they felt. We paid attention to pockets and storage features to see what seemed to improve organization or maximize space, and what didn’t. With the bags fully packed and zipped or snapped closed, we pushed each one off a counter several times at different angles to mimic rough travel conditions. We additionally stuffed some bags under mock airplane seats (or real ones for the bags we tested in a real-world setting) and lifted them into overhead bins to see how they fit and how they felt to lift. We also walked around with each packed bag for several minutes to see how comfortable it was to carry. We rolled wheeled suitcases through a cone obstacle course and over different surfaces to see how easy they were to maneuver. Following several lab and real-world tests over a period of six months, we collected insights and will continue to update this article to reflect our findings.

Tips for Buying a Personal Item Bags

Know your airline’s size requirements .

The majority of domestic airlines allow personal item bags up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches, but it does vary slightly between airlines , so check yours specifically before your flight. It’s also worth noting that some slightly larger bags may be allowed if they’re soft and unstructured — as long as they can squish down to a size that fits under the seat in front of you.

Factor in your desired space and built-in organization

Have a purse or other bag you love? Use a personal item that’s similar to it. If you carry a lot of small items with you (like makeup products, lip balm, earbuds, keys, etc.), you’ll likely enjoy a pick that has plenty of pockets and organizational features. If you plan on simply stowing a few larger items like a book and a water bottle in your bag, something with a spacious main compartment and less pockets will be ideal.

Decide what carrying style works best for you 

Pretty much any type of bag can be a personal item on a plane as long as it fits under the seat in front of you. All you have to do is choose the style you're most comfortable carrying. Many men opt for the timeless aesthetic and ease of access of a leather messenger bag . If you’re a purse-user in your everyday life, you’ll probably be into totes, crossbodies, and small duffels. If you’re not used to carrying a bag over your shoulder, go for a backpack, a sling bag (which technically hangs over your shoulder, but wears more like a backpack), a fanny pack, an underseat spinner, or a bag with a trolley sleeve that you can easily attach to wheeled luggage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Personal items are luggage items that fit underneath the seat in front of you on a plane. This can be a tote bag, a crossbody bag, a backpack, a duffel, a travel hat box , or even a spinner if it’s small enough to fit.

Think of your personal item bag as an extension of your carry-on bag. You’ll want to pack things you might need during your flight, like your phone, laptop or tablet, device chargers, eyeglasses, medications, wallet, a book or magazine, and perhaps even skincare products. Just keep in mind that, as with carry-ons, any liquid items you pack in your personal item bag shouldn’t exceed 3.4 fluid ounces each.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin rounded up the best personal item bags based on tests performed by the T+L team in our New York City lab. Hillary herself travels multiple times each year so she knows what factors make a great (and not-so-great) personal item for a flight.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

Protect Your Trip »

The 3 best travel backpacks for men (also good for work).

Explore the top hands-free travel bag options for every type of journey.

The Best Travel Backpacks for Men

Courtesy of Peak Design

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the top backpack choice for men.

Whether you're into rugged adventures in the wilderness or getting lost in bustling cities, a backpack may be the most essential piece of travel gear there is. If you choose your pack right, it doesn't need to be something you only use for your vacation: Some of the best options out there are ideal for both leisure and business travelers, and they're so stylish and professional that you can easily take them with you to work. No matter what kind of traveler you are, this trio of the best backpack options – compiled with the help of travel experts and consumer reviews – has got you covered.

Read on to discover the top travel backpacks for men from U.S. News.

The Top 3 Travel Backpacks for Men

• Best Overall: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Budget Pick: Inateck 40L 17-Inch Carry On Travel Backpack

Best small: zomake ultra lightweight packable backpack 25l.

For more information on how to choose a backpack for travel – and how to pack it – check out the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to various factors. We update this article quarterly to ensure the bags we're recommending are in stock and continue to have great overall reviews from consumers, while also considering new product launches. Dimensions are listed in order of length by height by width.)

Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

Dimensions: 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 4.5 pounds

What sets it apart: If you're looking for the ultimate in convenience while traveling, Peak Design's 45-liter Travel Backpack is a serious winner. The bag's two main compartments can be accessed from the front, back and sides, so there's no need to stress about accessing those socks or shirts you packed in the deepest part of the bag. It's the kind of bag where everything has its place: There are mesh pockets inside the main compartments, two hidden external pockets for valuables like your passport, and an easy-to-access top pocket on the outside for anything you need to get quickly, from keys to boarding passes. A padded sleeve inside also helps to keep your laptop or tablet safe. There are also straps to attach equipment like a tripod to the outside of the bag.

The Travel Backpack isn't just for weekend trips – if you're not a compulsive overpacker, it's feasible to use this as your main piece of luggage for a weeklong trip or more. The bag can be both expanded and contracted beyond this size, in case you do some shopping along the way or want to use it as a daypack. In its non-expanded form, this carry-on backpack is also within the size limits of many international airlines and some domestic ones. It's only a half-inch too deep for some airlines like United and Delta, so if the bag isn't jam-packed, you may still be able to get it on board – although this is very much at your own risk.

With an industrial-strength nylon-canvas shell that's waterproof, this backpack is also a safe bet for outdoorsy travelers who may be exposed to the elements. You can choose between two colors: classic black, or the muted-green sage option. Travelers looking to save have the option to buy pre-owned backpacks directly from Peak Design's website for substantially reduced prices (although stock and prices for these secondhand items vary).

Travelers appreciate: Owners of this bag praise it for its massive capacity, with several saying it is deceptively small for the amount of clothes, shoes and toiletries the bag can fit.

Price: $299.99 or less Shop now: Peak Design | Best Buy

Dimensions: 21.65 x 13.4 x 7.87 inches | Weight: 3.52 pounds

What sets it apart: This sleek black backpack from German company Inateck checks a lot of boxes. It's both professional and stylish, with plenty of capacity for a weekend trip or longer, and with a price tag under $60. With a rectangular shape and a main compartment that can be zipped open, this 40-liter bag can be packed like a suitcase. That compartment also has mesh pockets with zips so that you can squirrel away smaller items without losing them in the bag's spacious interior.

A smaller zippered compartment that sits next to the wearer's back offers a safe place to stash a 17-inch laptop and a 13-inch tablet, as needed. Security-conscious travelers, take note: Both the laptop compartment and main compartment feature dual zippers that can be locked (although you'll need to provide the lock).

There are two smaller pockets on the front of the bag for easy access to essential items while traveling, and a semi-hidden pocket on the back (which would sit alongside your body) as a safe place for passports and other valuables. If you're not using the bag's full capacity, there are also compression straps to make the pack a little more compact. The company also includes a waterproof cover in case you're traveling through rainy weather.

Given its size, this Inateck pack should be accepted as cabin baggage on a fairly wide range of airlines both domestic and international. Of course, be sure to double-check your airline's baggage rules, as a limited number of airlines draw the line at 21 or 21.5 inches in height, such as Aeroméxico, Air Canada and Canadian carrier Westjet.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag rave about how much it can fit and its hidden pockets. Many note its lightweight construction makes it comfortable to carry, and that it works well for business travelers.

Price: $58.99 or less Shop now: Inateck | Amazon

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Dimensions: 16 x 10.6 x 7.9 inches | Weight: 0.64 pounds

For a small but mighty bag that's ideal for day trips up to overnight or weekend trips, look no further than this uber-functional option from Chinese company Zomake. Sold in a wide selection of colors from neutral black or gray to light blue or bright orange, this lightweight pack is made with water-resistant nylon for anyone embarking on outdoor activities.

The backpack offers three zippered compartments: The main chamber should comfortably store bulkier items like everyday clothes or a light jacket, as well as a small to midsized laptop up to around 15 inches.. Meanwhile, two front pockets offer easy access to essentials like snacks, important documents, a cell phone, or whatever else you may need to access quickly or repeatedly. There are two mesh pockets on the side for water bottles or other necessities.

For flyers, this backpack could count as your personal item, leaving you free to bring another main piece of carry-on luggage if your airline ticket allows this. Alternatively, the bag can be folded up into a tiny pouch measuring 5.5 by 6.7 inches – so if you're on a bigger trip, you can pack it in your other luggage and grab it out for day-to-day use while traveling.

If you're in need of something bigger or smaller, Zomake has a range of other bags with similar designs, mostly around the $20 mark.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this bag like the wide and comfortable straps, along with the amount of items that fit in the bag, and the way it folds and packs easily

Price: $20.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many details to consider when it comes to choosing the perfect travel backpack. Whether you want it big or small, stylish or functional, or equipped to protect laptops and other important items, one of the most important features to look for is the bag's organizational layout.

Rudy Maxa, host of the TV series "Rudy Maxa's World" and a convert to travel backpacks, likes options with lots of nooks and crannies to hold everything from earphones to magazines to travel documents. Wendy Perrin, travel expert and founder of travel planning site WendyPerrin.com, agrees, saying she's a fan of compartments when it comes to her travel backpack and likes the ability to get to her items quickly.

Tom Wahlin, travel gear expert and founder of Pack Hacker, says he prefers a backpack that combines spacious sections with smart organization. He recommends using packing cubes to organize items in the backpack's main compartment.

Weight should be a consideration as well. While you may need something more durable for long outdoor adventures or round-the-world trips, a lightweight travel bag can be easier and more comfortable on your back for daytrips, sightseeing or day-to-day travels. Wahlin errs on the side of going lighter, noting a backpack can be both lightweight and durable. (However, if a heavier bag has the appropriate supports, such as chest or hip straps, the bag's weight may be less of an issue.)

Wahlin also suggests choosing a bag with durable zippers. "We typically look for Japanese YKK zippers," he says. "They're tried and tested and are on most of the best bags out there."

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – the perfectly sized backpack might depend on whether you're a heavy packer, whether you need it for multiday trips or quick flights, and various other factors. However, there are still some general guidelines to consider. Take note: Backpacks are usually measured by their volume in liters, even in the United States.

If you only need a smaller backpack – for example, for daylong excursions or to carry on the plane while most of your stuff goes in a separate suitcase – a 20-liter (5.3-gallon) backpack should suffice. If you're using a backpack as your primary baggage, you'll want to choose something a little larger. Bags in the 25- to 30-liter range are usually considered good for shorter trips, from an overnight stay or weekend away up to five nights (at least if you pack wisely). For longer trips where your backpack is your main luggage, you may need a pack with a volume of up to 40 or 45 liters.

But, pay attention: If your travel plans involve flying, make sure that you're bringing a backpack that fits within the carry-on limits of every airline you'll be taking. This is particularly important if you're flying with budget airlines, as they tend to have more restrictive rules on baggage size (and often enforce those rules rather strictly). Backpacks with a volume of 35 liters or less should be accepted on most airlines, and you may be able to take a backpack of up to 45 liters on airlines with a more generous allowance, so check with your carrier before you leave.

Think about two things when preparing your backpack for travel: what to pack and how to pack it. If you're bringing a backpack in addition to other luggage such as a checked suitcase , try to put only the necessities in the backpack. For a long flight, for example, these items could include important travel documents like passports and boarding passes; a few basic toiletries such as your toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant; a laptop or tablet for work or entertainment (plus headphones); some extra clothing (especially if you're going someplace with a different climate); and snacks and a bottle of water or something to drink.

If you're flying, remember to comply with the Transportation Security Administration's rules for what's allowed in your carry-on : Containers of liquids and the like can't exceed 3.4 ounces each and must fit in a quart-sized bag, so you can't bring drinks through airport security, although an empty water bottle is allowed.

When you're packing your bag, keep the items you'll need more often in the most accessible places. So, consider putting your passport , headphones and lip balm somewhere close, such as the exterior pocket – and definitely not at the bottom of the main compartment underneath all your other possessions.

Once you've put those necessities in easy-to-reach places, you can pack the rest of your belongings and travel accessories . Think about weight distribution here: Ideally, you'll want to put the heaviest items (for example, laptops) close to your body, so your backpack won't weigh so heavily on your shoulders and will be more comfortable. Pay extra attention when packing delicate or breakable items, like sunglasses or electronics. It's best to put these in the exterior pockets of your pack so they can't be crushed by heavy items in the larger main pockets. Protective cases are also a wise purchase for items like glasses. Of course, if you're carrying a laptop or tablet and your backpack has dedicated pockets or sleeves for these items, use them.

Read: Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Tim Forster is a U.S. News & World Report contributor. As someone who mostly travels with carry-on luggage, he's an expert when it comes to backpacks. Forster used his travel experience and research expertise to write this article.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage in 2023, for All Types of Travelers

Whether you prefer a suitcase, duffel bag, or backpack, we've got you covered.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Which brings us to arguably the most vital piece of luggage a person can own: a carry-on bag. The first step to finding your personal best carry-on luggage is by deciding what kind of travel you will be embarking on. If it's a short weekend trip, a backpack or duffel bag will suffice, but if you're going away for, say, a week then a carry-on suitcase (or travel bag ) will likely be more efficient.

Best Carry-On Duffel Bag

Filson medium rugged twill duffle bag.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack

Nomatic travel bag 40l carry-on backpack.

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall

Away the carry-on.

Before upgrading your carry-on bag there are a few factors to consider. First, make sure your bag's measurements are TSA-approved—most airlines allow carry-ons no larger than 22 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches tall, including the wheels and handle. If you’re a heavy packer, you’ll want an expandable bag to maximize space. If you’re storing your suitcase in a small closet, you might want a bag that flattens when empty.

Read more: Best Luggage Brands

We curated the top carry-on bags for all types of flyers. The pieces of luggage below represent a wide range of budgets, travel styles, and aesthetic preferences. But the common denominator is that each carry-on prioritizes function above all else. Your carry-on luggage probably won't be able to help you tune out the screaming baby across the aisle, but it will certainly get your gear from point A to point B safely and with as low amount of stress as possible! Here is the best carry-on luggage for every type of travel in 2022.

About the Expert : I’ve spent most of my life hiking, kayaking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors. For more than a decade, I’ve traveled the world, including all seven continents, and covered outdoor and adventure travel, sharing my advice on Forbes, Travel + Leisure, CNET, and National Geographic. These days, I personally evaluate adventure travel gear (like carry-on luggage) and tech gadgets for Men’s Health from my home base south of Boston. So, you might say I’m a little gear-obsessed.

Made with beautiful bridle leather and rain-resistant rugged twill that’s sourced from one of Britain’s most storied mills, Filson duffle bags are guaranteed to last for years to come. The Medium Rugged Twill Duffle Bag is extremely durable and abrasion-resistant, so it’s built to take a beating even in the unlikely event that you need to check it. Bespoke design notes like a rust-proof brass zipper and storm flap closures help bolster the bag to combat weather, and its interior pockets are made of dry finish tin cloth for added durability. Simply put, this is the All-American choice (one that's actually made in the USA) of carry-on duffles.

With a 43-liter capacity, it’s well-sized for all but the longest trips. Extended weekends are no problem, and even a week is possible with some smart planning. There’s little to dislike about this bag beyond the price. At nearly $600, it’s among the most expensive duffles on the market. But, with heirloom-quality design touches and a handsome, retro-military-inspired look, we think it’s easily the sharpest and best carry-on duffle bag this year. Plus, it’s available in Large or XL sizes, if Medium isn’t enough for your loadout.

Read more: Best Travel Bags

For the ultimate in travel versatility, nothing beats a good backpack . That’s true whether you’re a weekend warrior, a frequent flier, or a digital nomad with no fixed address. A travel backpack is more portable and always “ready to go” than a wheeled rollaboard and easier to tote around than a traditional duffle bag. This year, our go-to backpack carry-on is the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L. At 22” x 14” x 9”, it’s the perfect size for stashing in overhead bins. Plus, it’s wrapped in a durable, water-resistant shell. The patented strap system allows this one to convert from a duffel to a backpack and back again on the fly.

Inside, as the name implies, you’ll find 40L of usable space—that’s more than enough for most trips, especially if you pack right. There’s plenty of clever organization features, too, including a laptop sleeve, a sunglass case, and a dedicated water pouch. In short, there’s a lot to love about this bag. It’s lightweight, innovative, perfectly sized, and we like the modern, minimal aesthetic too. But the part? It’s a steal at under $300—all of which is why it’s our pick for the best carry-on backpack of 2022.

What do buyers say? “I couldn't be more pleased with the build quality and how well it has worked in even the tightest carry on situations,” said one Amazon reviewer. Read more: Best Travel Pants

Because Away is a direct-to-consumer brand, you’re able to score top-quality carry-ons (and checked luggage too) without the usual "middleman" markup. The brand’s simply named The Carry-On has risen to become a luggage staple for frequent travelers. What you get is a strong polycarbonate hard shell with easy-rolling, 360-degree spinner wheels and an ejectable USB charger to give your phone extra juice while on-the-go. The lightweight, minimalist shell is available in a dozen handsome colors and secures with TSA-approved combination locks.

Inside, an interior compression system and water-resistant laundry bag are added to make packing for the ride back just as easy as the initial departure. For couples who like to coordinate with matching luggage and more than one suitcase, the Carry-On lineup is available in a variety of other sizes with smaller versions built to nest inside larger. That’s a serious win for apartment dwellers or anyone short on space. Did we mention the Away Carry-On is less than $300?

What do buyers say? “Stylish and very versatile. It also kept my belongings packed beautifully,” said one AwayTravel.com reviewer.

Read more: Best Hoodies

Rimowa Hybrid Cabin Carry-On

It wouldn’t be right to talk about the best carry-on luggage without bringing up Rimowa. The luxury German luggage maker has a long and storied history with some of the world's most premium bags. The Hybrid Cabin blends extremely lightweight aluminum-magnesium alloy with even lighter polycarbonate for a carry-on that’s easy to maneuver and incredibly durable. Decked out in stark white or jet black, it boasts an understated sophistication that feels undeniably luxurious. Inside, a customizable Flex Divider can be arranged however you like to keep your belongings in order. Plus, the whole suitcase rolls on a proprietary Multi-Wheel system that’s whisper-quiet and moves effortlessly.

From the luxurious good looks to the durable construction to the thoughtful detailing in every piece of this carry-on, it’s hard to find anything bad to say about it. But, premium luggage of this caliber doesn’t come cheap. This is the most expensive carry-on in our roundup with a price tag north of $1,000. Not surprisingly, it’s also one of the swankiest pieces of luggage we’ve seen this year. So, if you’ve got money to burn on new luggage and only the best will do, this is your man.

What do buyers say? “Bought this impeccable piece of luggage for my husband and he loves it, especially for its maneuverability. The spinner wheels glide seamlessly over any type of flooring and the aluminum corners adds that touch of style,” said one Bloomingdales.com reviewer.

Exped Radical 45L Travel Pack

Adventure travel usually requires a ton of extra gear. So, we appreciate an ultra-versatile bag that can pull double duty as both your carry-on luggage and your adventure backpack—no need to pack both. Exped’s latest Radical series is purpose-built to do just that. Situated in the middle of the lineup, the Radical 45 is a near-perfect carry-on size. With clever straps, it converts easily from a duffle bag to a backpack, so it’s whatever you need it to be. The main compartment is accessible via an extra-long zipper that provides easy access for packing and unpacking of large items or packing cubes. Large side pockets offer additional storage and direct access to the main compartment in a pinch.

We love that this one is ridiculously light with a minimum weight of just 24.7 ounces (barely 1.5 pounds!), yet it’s capable of holding up to 45 liters of your belongings. It’s available in a handful of smaller and larger sizes, too, so you can buy several bags to coordinate your gear storage for longer trips. It’s also a tremendous value at under $100. The only downside? The “open concept” main compartment means there’s little in the way of organizational pockets or pouches to keep your gear separated.

What do buyers say? “... a great bag, perfect for weekends or a carryon. I love the compression aspect, it allows you to fit way more than you would think,” said one REI reviewer.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

You can never go wrong with Samsonite when it comes to carry-on suitcases. For us, the Samsonite carry-on with the best overall value is the Omni PC Hardside Expandable. The stylish hardshell case is crafted in polycarbonate with a micro-diamond texture that’s highly scratch-resistant, so your case will stay looking clean and sleek, trip after trip. Don’t let the roughly $150 price tag fool you. It comes loaded with all the bells and whistles. We’re talking multi-directional spinner wheels, TSA-compatible side locks, and a retractable pull handle. Interior compression straps keep everything in place while in transit.

At around $150, this is one of the best bang-for-your-buck carry-ons on the market. Sure, there are less expensive hardsided-carry-ons, but few with the same durability, number of features, and great looks. If you’re a heavy packer or like to keep a variety of luggage at the ready, the collection is available in a wide variety of colors and sizes too, including larger checked luggage. Plus, you score free shipping and free returns through Amazon, which is almost like a free in-home trial.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 20,000 Amazon reviews, 92% recommend the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside luggage with at least a 4-star rating.

Modoker Convertible Garment Bag

Don’t let the outside of this bag fool you. Modoker designed this compact, 45-liter duffel to fit a suit, a pair of shoes, and a weekend’s worth of clothes. The secret is in the bag’s “rolled tube” design, which makes it so you can store your suit wrinkle-free by gently wrapping it around the everyday clothes you’re storing on the interior. It’s an ingenious design with a surprising number of pockets and storage that almost reminds us of Mary Poppins’ iconic carry-everything-but-the-kitchen-sink bag. It works as an accompaniment to a classic rollaboard suitcase for longer trips or stands on its own for weekend business trips where you want to pack as little as possible.

The handsome, minimalist design is available in several colors—all of which work with just about any aesthetic. What truly sets this one apart, however, is the price. At under $50, it’s an amazing value, especially if you’re looking for the simplest, most straightforward carry-on you can find. All of which makes it our pick for the best carry-on garment bag.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 7,700 Amazon reviews, 87% recommend the Modoker Convertible Garment Bag with at least a 4-star rating.

The North Face Base Camp Voyager 42L Duffel Bag

When you value functionality over flashy good looks, The North Face’s Base Camp Voyager Duffel Bag is your man. At 23 x 14.67 x 10.2 inches, it’s technically larger than maximum allowable carry-on size. But, the soft-sided construction means you can easily make it fit with a little clever packing. The 300D recycled polyester tarpaulin exterior features a non-PFC DWR coating, together making this one extremely rugged and water-resistant to boot. Inside, it offers a generous 42-liter capacity which is more than enough for a hard-packing weekend away or more than a week, depending on your packing ability. External webbing allows you to clip extra gear to the outside, while a divided interior makes for easy organization.

At under $150, this one is a steal, especially given the premium The North Face branding. The Voyager line-up also features several other sizes, in case you prefer to travel ultra-light or you like bringing all your gear along for the ride.

What do buyers say? “This is the best bag I have ever had. It's functional and perfect for a 2-14 day trip depending on your packing skills,” said one Backcountry.com reviewer.

How to Find the Best Carry-On Luggage (for You)

Of course, there’s no one best carry-on bag. But, there is a best carry-on for you . Here’s what to look for when shopping for your perfect luggage.

Consider Your Travel Style

Above all else, your personal travel style is likely the most important consideration. Think about how you travel and what you like to do when you land. If you’re an adventurous traveler who values function over flash, a rugged backpack or duffel might be for you. If you’re a weekend warrior jetting off to cross-country business meetings every few weeks, a rolling garment bag would be ideal. For occasional vacationers who travel a few times a year, a traditional rollaboard with a telescoping handle, a durable outer shell, and decent interior organization should do. It’s all about what works for you.

For hard-sided carry-ons, you’ll likely want an aluminum (or aluminum alloy) or polycarbonate shell. These offer the best value in terms of durability and price. Either material is tough enough to endure modern travel, and will be fine in those rare instances where the airline forces you to—gasp—check your bag at the gate. Soft-sided carry-on travel bags, like backpacks and duffels, are typically made from some sort of ripstop nylon. Ideally, you want one with a DWR (durable water-repellent) finish that fends off rain, splashes, and light snow. While this material is built to take a beating, it’s less than ideal if you’re forced to check your bag. So you’ll want to measure it when it’s fully packed before heading to the airport to be absolutely sure it fits in the overhead bin.

In our experience, it rarely makes sense to spend more than $300 on a well-made carry-on. That includes everything from backpacks and duffel bags to hard-sided luggage and rollaboards. Brands like Samsonite and Away make excellent, durable luggage designed to last a decade or more, and many of their best products are in the $150-$300 range. Spending any more than that is usually just a splurge, and you’re typically paying a premium only for the name.

Other Features

The best modern luggage offers a long list of features. TSA-approved combination locks are a great security feature, ensuring your belongings stay safe while in transit. Easy-rolling wheels are critical for rollaboard travelers—these allow your suitcase to glide through the airport with minimal effort. Some suitcases these days even feature a built-in USB battery bank for topping up small gadgets on the go without having to scramble to find a power outlet at your next layover.

How We Selected

For the past year, we consulted with Men's Health 's editors and travel-savvy writers on the best carry-on luggage. Our experts—including our Gear and Commerce Editor, John Thompson—put a number of carry-on luggage pieces to the test and evaluated their storage capacity, organization features, durability, weight, and price. We also considered well-reviewed carry-ons with high customer ratings on etailer websites we trust. The list above represents our honest picks of the best of the best carry-on luggage for every type of traveler in 2022.

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Finding the perfect travel bag is kind of like finding the perfect partner… you want one that’s intuitive and understands your needs, versatile and down for an adventure… but you also want them to look good (don’t worry — we totally agree, it's still what’s on the inside that counts).

Our travel bag collection will definitely check boxes for you. 

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Find your perfect match with one of our bestselling travel bags!

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Luca Italian Leather

Review Highlights

“ Pete for the weekend and I spotted this bag in the window at Luca. ” in 2 reviews

“ On trend in style, made of the highest quality leather and craftsmanship . ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

100 2nd Ave NE

Saint Petersburg, FL 33701

Downtown St. Petersburg

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This neat store opened not too long ago. They have another store in Tampa at, I think, International Mall. Go here if you want to find some beautiful, hand-painted leather purses, bags, jackets, a small selection of men's shoes (I've asked/begged them to get in some women's shoes!). The quality is very good, and their products are appealing. I purchased a handsome belt for my husband, and it was custom fitted to his waist size -- he wears it ALL THE TIME! I also purchased an evening bag (casual elegant) in a beautiful teal color that I just "couldn't" pass up. Go have some fun at this store. You'll be glad you did.

This is a fantastic store to go to! I just bought a leather jacket and Sam gave me a great deal on it!

Amazing lux quality products, easy negotiation... this is my 3rd purchase (2 leather purse/backpack and 1 leather travel backpack that has been with me all around the world. I've gotten so many compliments on them!!! I love this business!!

We were on the hunt for a travel bag for grandson. Graduating from Ohio State and his new job will require a LITTLE bit of travel at times. Sammy IS a prince! Very helpful and solicitous answering our questions with detailed knowledge of his merchandise. The bag we picked will serve nicely and will suffice for as long as he needs. The craftsmanship is top notch and world class, dyed and tanned to perfection. Sammy is what retailing should be. Helpful and knowledgeable but not overly so. I'm old enough to remember department stores had clerks that would direct and help one with purchases. Well this store and Sammy are the epitome of service and help. Would like to do again for the others when they graduate. Highly recommended. Herb/Thel

My husband and I were in St. Pete for the weekend and I spotted this bag in the window at Luca. In a hurry, we dashed to where we were headed but I could not get the purse out of my head. I called Luca and the owner was incredible; he found the bag and mailed it to me in two days. It is more luxurious and beautiful than I could even remember. Planning our next trip to my new favorite leather store. Adrienne

Great store, unique high quality Italian leather! Purses, wallets, suitcases, backpacks, jackets and more can be found here! Sam will give you the best pricing possible! Highly recommend checking it out in downtown St. Petersburg, Fl

Luca Italian leather

Recently I had been downtown and as I was putting money in the meter, I dropped my wallet filled with my ID, credit cards and cash. When I got back from visiting my friend in the condos nearby, there was a note on my windshield. The owner of Luca's Leather found my wallet. When I began to walk over, he had been watching to see if he could catch me before I drove away. You can't imagine my overwhelming gratitude to get my wallet, ID, credit cards and my cash back. I plan to go back to purchase a new leather purse very soon. It's a very small way to thank Luca for the way he came to my rescue. God Bless you and I can't wait to post a pic soon of what I found. One thing I did find was a very kind and honest man who went out of his way to protect me and my belongings. Thank You from the bottom of my heart.

It was an amazing collection of unique leather products and Sammy had an opinion that really mattered! I ended up w a piece that fits beautifully and looks edgy and great!

I felt like I walked into a dream. Sammy has the most beautiful and finest Italian Leather you could imagine. Luca Italian leather is a must if you are in St. Pete's. I bought a beautiful and timeless bag, love! I plan to make this a special treat every time I visit St. Pete.

Gorgeous leather handbags, jackets and shoes. On trend in style, made of the highest quality leather and craftsmanship. Sam was charming and knowledgeable.

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Categories Europe , Destinations , Russia

Once known as Leningrad and before that Petrograd, Saint Petersburg, Russia, is the country’s second-largest city. Set next to the Neva River, close to the Baltic Sea, this city is home to over 5 million people.

It’s the world’s northernmost city, founded by Peter the Great and named after Saint Peter the apostle. Once home to the Tsars of Russia, it is today known as the country’s cultural capital.

With iconic sights such as Hermitage Museum, Nevsky Prospect, Peterhof Palace, and so much more, it has a fascinating heritage ripe for exploration. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 13 best things to do in St. Petersburg. 

Top Things to do in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Europe, has grown into one of the top tourist destinations on the continent. Although it might get very cold in winter, there are still plenty of things to do – and the summers are absolutely perfect! Saint Petersburg is one of the prettiest cities in all of Europe .

Keep reading for some of my favorite choices. 

1. Visit The World Famous Hermitage Museum

One of the city’s most popular attractions (with over 3 million items in its esteemed collection), State Hermitage Museum showcases everything from fine art to ancient artifacts. 

Even if you don’t plan on entering inside, the exterior is an architectural gem in itself. The columns are all in white with green/gold facades that can be viewed from the river or Palace Square.

If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, your trip would not be complete without stopping past this world-famous landmark. It’s also a great activity to do no matter what time of year you are visiting – and a perfect way to escape those cold Russian winter days. 

There are six buildings in the museum complex in total. Five of which – Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, and Hermitage Theatre – can be accessed by the public.

Within, you’ll be treated to Egyptian collections, artifacts dating from ancient Mesopotamia, and classical Greek jewelry, pottery, and sculptures. This is any historical culture lover’s dream. 

Keep exploring, and you will find collections of prehistoric relics from the Palaeolithic era to the Iron Ages, European fine arts, Impressionist works, Catherine the Great’s personal collections, and so much more.

In fact, you’ll need an entire day or possibly longer to explore this incredible museum complex. If you only have limited time in St. Petersburg, be sure to add this museum to your itinerary! There are also guided tours available if you want a more educational experience. 

Did you know? The Hermitage Museum is the world’s second-largest art museum.

2. Take in a Performance at Mariinsky Theatre

The Neoclassical Mariinsky Theatre is home to Russia’s revered opera and ballet companies.

The theatre – named after the wife of Tsar Alexandra II, Empress Maria Alexandrovna – has been here since 1860 when it was known as the Kirov Theatre.

This magnificent building, since it opened, has hosted stage performances and premieres from Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky and famous ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. 

Today, in addition to hosting live performances, the theatre has its own record label, which focuses on releasing music by Russian composers Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and Rachmaninov.

If you enjoy the arts and are going to be in St. Petersburg for several days, book tickets to see a world-class performance – you won’t be disappointed.

3. See Jewelled Eggs at the Faberge Museum

The House of Faberge was founded in St. Petersburg in 1842 by Gustav Faberge. Originally a jeweler, he became famous for designing jewel-encrusted eggs for the Tsars of Russia and is arguably the most famous goldsmith of the modern era. 

Today, you can view these iconic collection pieces in the Faberge Museum. It showcases 4,000 items in total, including Faberge Easter eggs, jewelry, silverware, home decor, and fantasy-themed objects.

The incredible jeweled eggs are famous all over the world, and there are several museums dedicated to them. But if you want to learn about Gustav Faberge, his family, and how it all began, this is the museum to visit. You can purchase a ticket in person or online. 

4. Spend an Hour Canal Cruising

St. Petersburg is built on 42 islands, and once upon a time (before bridges were constructed), cruising was the only way to navigate the city.

On a Golden Ring boat tour, you’ll see some of St. Petersburg’s iconic sights along the Kryukov Canal, including St. Nicholas Cathedral, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Mariinsky theatre.

You’ll dip beneath the famous colored bridges on Neva River whilst enjoying views of Peter and Paul Fortress, Vasilyevsky Island, and the Summer Garden. This is truly one of the most breathtaking ways to take in all the beauty that St. Petersburg has to offer. 

This tour also only takes around an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to revisit your favorite spots throughout the day!

5. Discover Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

One of St. Petersburg’s architectural masterpieces is the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.

This former Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1907 and is built in Baroque, Neoclassical, and Russian Revival design. It is one of the city’s main attractions, with ornate domes, intricate frescoes, and 7,500 square meters of mosaics inside. 

If you don’t wish to enter, you can gain incredible views from Griboedov Canal. But if you do venture inside, you’ll be rewarded with interior frescoes and mosaic works depicting biblical scenes and figures created by celebrated Russian artists of the time.

The Church of the Saviour of Blood is built on the spot where Emperor Alexander 2 was assassinated in 1881 – hence the name. So, not only will you be able to appreciate the fine architectural designs, but also explore an important part of Russian history. 

6. Take a Rooftop Walk-in St. Petersburg

If you have viewed the city from canals and rivers, try it from the rooftops! You can take a guided rooftop walk in the city, seeing streets and skylines from an elevated perspective.

One particular tour to highlight is the Official Rooftops Excursion of St. Petersburg. Just a few minutes from Nevsky Prospect, these sites offer vistas of Fontanka River and Trinity Cathedral – and that’s just the first roof.

The second roof boasts views of St. Petersburg’s old center, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Kazan Cathedral, and the Church on Spilled Blood.

This is a truly incredible way to see the city in all its glory, plus the tour provides you with binoculars so you can see everything in great detail.

7. Admire Nevsky Prospect’s Magnificent Architecture

The main street of St. Petersburg is Nevsky Prospect. Begin at the intersection at Stroganov Palace before venturing to Kazan Cathedral. While you walk, take in the monuments dedicated to Catherine the Great and browse goods at The Passage – Nevsky Avenue’s premier department store.

This store was quite the trailblazer. It opened its doors in the late 1840s and was one of the first buildings in Russia to use gas for lighting. Then, in 1900, an electric station was installed on an underground floor.

Once you’ve finished shopping and enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee, continue to the Russian National Library – the oldest public library in Russia – and Alexandrinsky Theatre (which was built for the Imperial troupe of Petersburg).

8. Visit the Island of Peter and Paul Fortress

Set on an island connected by bridges, Peter and Paul Fortress is instantly recognizable from its needle spire, which dominates the skyline. The fortress was originally built to defend the maritime city from Swedish invaders.

However, Peter the Great defeated the opposition before it was even completed! It has since served as a military center and prison for political dissenters and, latterly, as a museum.

Inside the vast complex, you can see Peter and Paul Cathedral, visit the resting place of the Romanovs, and watch military processions or the firing of the noon-day gun.

It’s a great day trip for anyone interested in Russian, maritime or military history. There are also plenty of group walking tours available. 

9. Sample Russian Vodka in a Ryumochnye

A visit to Russia wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local drink – vodka, and the best place to do this is in a Ryumochnye. This is a specific style of 19th-century Russian drinking house that not only offers some of Russia’s best vodka but also a short history lesson.

You could call it a bar, but it’s more than that – most mainstream Ryumochnye have a definite Soviet vibe and are places for working men to kick back and enjoy vodka with their buddies.

Beverages come in bottles or shot form, and some places offer self-service and snacks.

If that sounds too hardcore for your taste, there are updated versions of Ryumochnye in the city, like Mayak in St. Petersburg, where you can gain a similar experience. 

10. Enjoy local Saint Petersburg Craft Beer

Although most people think of vodka when visiting Russia, you can also enjoy some of the best craft beer in Saint Petersburg . Russia’s second-largest city has an exciting, rapidly growing craft beer scene, in part due to its history and geography.

Historically, the Russian empire was influenced by Northern Europe, and the Dutch & English beer-drinking culture eventually made its way here. Today, Saint Petersburg is home to a growing number of modern microbreweries, cool taprooms, and stylish bars.

Saint Petersburg is also home to Stepan Razin Brewery, the oldest brewery in Russia (now, of course, owned by Heiniken). It opened in 1795, but today the building is known as the Saint Petersburg Beer Museum, showcasing the history of beer in Russia and the Soviet Union.

Russia’s largest and most popular brewery, Baltika, is also located in Saint Petersburg, and it’s possible to take a tour of their huge brewery.

11. See the Majestic Catherine Palace

A stately palace of blue and gold, Catherine’s Palace is located 26 kilometers south of St. Petersburg. Named after the wife of Peter the Great, this place was originally a two-story modest building commissioned in 1717.

The exterior, which stretches for one kilometer in circumference, is surrounded by woodlands, lawns, gilded balconies, and reliefs. However, the interiors are even more impressive.

With great halls, a white dining room, an amber room, and more. It’s the perfect place to step back into history and discover what life was like as a Russian aristocracy.

12. Explore Peterhof Palace

If you’re going to visit Catherine Palace, you should tour Peterhof too. It’s a 40-minute drive away, but you can even take a hydrofoil speed boat from right behind the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg center.

Sitting close to the Baltic Sea, Peterhof Palace was constructed by Peter the Great to be Russia’s version of Versailles. The opulent residence surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and tiered staircases leading to the grand entrance evokes mystery and the history of a bygone era.

Inside it is lavishly decorated with dazzling chandeliers, one-of-a-kind artworks and beautiful ceiling frescoes.

On a guided tour, you can learn more about the palace’s history. Discover the Throne Room, Portrait Hall and Peter the Great’s Oak Study. You’ll see dining rooms set for dinner, grand ballrooms where dancing and gatherings would take place, and décor which defies time.

The palace offers great insight into his life and legacy, and if you are interested in history, art and interior design, you’ll love it.

Want to know more about Peterhof?

13. Spend a Day by the Finnish Border at Vyborg

Just over an hour from central Saint Petersburg by train is the city of Vyborg. It sits on the Gulf of Finland and was first settled back in the 12th century. The city has been occupied by Finnish and German forces and suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. However, it has since been rebuilt. 

It’s a charming center to wander around, with narrow cobbled streets, a medieval castle, and Finnish art nouveau structures sprinkled throughout. An easy day trip from St. Petersburg, it can also serve as a stop-off point if you’re crossing into Finland to continue your adventure.

Want to know more about Saint Petersburg?

Where is St. Petersburg | Is St. Petersburg in Europe?

If you want to know “Where is Saint Petersburg?”, you’ve come to the right place. Beautiful St. Petersburg is located in northern Russia. Russia is a massive country, so it is no surprise that many people want to know “Is Saint Petersburg in Europe?”. The answer is yes. 

How to Get to Saint Petersburg

The maritime city is well linked to Europe by air, sea, rail and road. Depending on where you’re traveling from and the rest of your itinerary, you can use one of the following ways to arrive at St. Petersburg.

You can fly into Saint Petersburg through Pulkovo International Airport. There are around 1,100 international flights a week and 1,200 domestic flights operating in and out of the local airport.

Although many flights from European cities to Saint Petersburg are direct, you may have to change flights if flying from further afield.

It’s also possible to travel to St. Petersburg by train. The most popular (and most frequent) routes operate from Moscow, Helsinki, and Tallinn. However, there are options to travel from other areas in central Europe, central Asia, and eastern Europe by rail.

There is a central bus station in Saint Petersburg, with services to and from Moscow, Pskov, Novgorod, Vilnius, Riga , Tallinn and Helsinki. Some of these journeys can be long and arduous.

Therefore, thorough research and choosing the right bus company is important.

Baltic Sea Cruises also operate to St. Petersburg as part of a larger itinerary, and St. Peter Line Ferry sails from Helsinki in Finland and Tallinn in Estonia.

Exploring Saint Petersburg, Russia

Saint Petersburg is the 5th most populous city in Europe and also a leading tourist destination. Although people sometimes forget about Russia, this city is breathtakingly beautiful and provides plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

Now that you know where to go, I hope you have an amazing time in Russia’s most beautiful city.

Friday 19th of January 2018

Thank you! So great review about our St. Petersburg!

What to do in St. Petersburg in 1 day - Probe around the Globe

Thursday 11th of May 2017

[…] more about the beauty of St. Petersburg from the Unusual […]

Friday 17th of June 2016

Which hostel did you stay at? I am potentially thinking of going to Russia for World Cup 2018 after my World Cup trip to Brazil two years ago. Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities, and so I am very interested in learning more about this city and recommendations from fellow travellers who have been.

Christian L.

I stayed at Soul Kitchen Junior, and I will go so far and say its by far the best hostel I have ever stayed at!! Anywhere in the world, no other hostels even get close to it:)