When traveling by plane it’s vital to keep all essentials easily accessible in your carry-on bag, ideally one that fits under the seat in front of you. I’ve spent a lot of time researching to find the best carry-on backpack, and I think I finally did.

My Carry-On Pick

This Everlane backpack is my current go-to and it checks all the boxes.

For starters, it’s a good price point compared to other bags I looked at (and bonus it was on sale when I purchased). Arguably, the most important feature is the luggage strap. My last travel backpack didn’t have a strap and without fail on every trip I would say I need to get a new bag that does.
It has a water bottle holder which is non-negotiable for proper hydration. See my airplane essentials list below for my favorite reusable water bottle, it saves me from spending a ton of money on plastic water bottles in the airport. Plus it has a cap that flips over the straw to protect from germs. Reusable water bottles are only essential for airplane travel, though, it’s super helpful to have throughout any trip.
The Everlane backpack also has two front zipper compartments for organizing smaller items like your keys, wallet, chapstick, etc. and a large compartment for everything else.
Another key feature is the laptop sleeve in the back, to protect it and provide easy access. It fits any laptop up to 15″.
Lastly, the backpack is stylish! It comes in a handful of neutral colors and looks casual but elevated at the same time. I got the “Kalamata” green color and am obsessed. It’s the perfect olive green and so versatile!
All of these features make it the best carry-on backpack.

My Airplane Essentials

  • Wallet, obviously
  • Passport/Visa, if your destination requires
  • Phone charger – plug & usb option since you never know what will be easily accessible.
  • Headphones
  • Laptop and charger
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Snacks – some of my faves are cheez-its, granola bars, trail mix, watermelon sour patch, peanut butter m&ms.
  • A good book
  • Jacket – planes are always freezing!
  • Neck pillow – I’ve tried many different kinds and this is the only one I’ll ever use. The foam pillows are always too firm and make me feel claustrophobic, personally. Also highly recommend getting the cover so that you can easily wash between trips.
  • Hand sanitizing wipes
  • Tissues
  • Ibuprofen
  • Emergen-c
  • Chapstick

It’s worth mentioning that the Everlane backpack also makes the perfect overnight bag. It fits a pair of sneakers, sandals, a few outfits, toiletries, and chargers.

Runner-Up: Best Carry-On Backpack

Calpak Luka Laptop backpack – I love the look of this one so much and they offer a great color selection. It’s slightly smaller than the Everlane but otherwise the features are comparable. The Calpak is at a higher price point, however, and it never seems to be included in the sales.

Monos Metro backpack – This backpack definitely looks more chic than the other two and comes in Nylon or Vegan leather. It comes with two pouches for cosmetics/catch all items which I thought was great. This is the smallest bag of the three and also the most expensive. Monos has proven quality items though so it’s an investment piece that will last. If you’re looking for a professional and sleek looking bag, this is the one to choose.

Why a Backpack?

I’ll save you the trouble now, I’ve only included backpacks in my search because traveling with a one-shoulder bag is not fun! It gets heavy quick and just gives you pain before your trip begins. Sure, you could roll it on top of a suitcase most of the time, but you’ll inevitably need to carry it at some point and trust me, you’ll regret it.