travel packing bags reviews

The Best Packing Cubes to Keep Your Suitcase Organized

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

We have two main priorities when it comes to packing : saving space and staying organized. The solution to both? Investing in a set of the best packing cubes. Whether you're headed on a low-key weekend away or a weeklong European adventure , these thoughtfully designed cubes help manage even the most unwieldy of travel wardrobes . The great thing about packing cubes is how versatile they are: Use them to organize your belongings by garment type, to keep complete outfits together, to separate clean clothes from dirty clothes, or to hold your shoes.

Our editors tested some of the most popular packing cubes on the market to determine which are actually worth buying. We considered their size, how much they hold, how compressive they are, and any other useful features that make them stand out. Ahead, discover 13 of the best packing cubes that will make your suitcase a whole lot neater.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Shop our top picks:

• The best compressive cubes: Béis compression packing cubes
• The best for customization: Paravel packing cube quad
• The best colorways: Calpak packing cubes
• The best for camping: REI Co-op expandable packing cube set
• The best Amazon find: Amazon Basics packing cubes

The new compressive packing cubes from Béis have quickly become my go-tos. The six-piece set comes with two extra large cubes for bulky items like sweaters and jeans, four standard-size packing cubes for shirts, underwear, and athleisure, and a sheet of labels. I appreciate that each cube has a clear window where the labels can be easily replaced depending on what I pack for each trip. They feature extra zippers that allow the cubes to be expanded or compressed, making them a great option for both short and long trips. Available in black and the brand's signature shade of beige, they look good inside every suitcase. — Meaghan Kenny

Why we chose it: Compressive design, sleek look, and convenient pre-made labels

The sophisticated packer will love this stylish four-piece set from Paravel, a favorite of Condé Nast Traveler articles director Lale Arikoglu , that features a sleek design and peek-a-boo mesh windows. Up the style with a bespoke monogram for an additional $25. As an added boon, the eco-friendly nylon material is made out of upcycled plastic water bottles.

Why we chose it: Customizable, made of recycled materials

Another one of the best packing cube sets comes from Calpak . The five-pack includes large cubes for bulky items, medium cubes for shirts and undergarments, and one water-resistant envelope pouch for dirty clothes or wet bathing suits. These are your classic packing cubes—they're not compressive, but they're lightweight, lay completely flat when empty, and do the trick at keeping your suitcase sorted. There's a small window where you can add your own label to help identify the right packing cube, too.

Why we chose it: Available in over a dozen fun colors and patterns

Whether you’re headed on a business trip or camping adventure , these sturdy, best-selling packing cubes from REI have you covered. They’re made of a durable ripstop nylon and feature polyester mesh. We love the loops at the top that can be used as carrying handles or to hang them up to dry after you’ve tossed them in the wash.

Why we chose it: Expansion zipper and durable water-repellent finish

This under-$25 set of packing cubes from Amazon is among our top sets for travel. Not only has it racked up nearly 40,000 ratings and an average of 4.7 stars, it's a favorite of executive editor Erin Florio . “I love how spacious they are. I used them on a recent eight-day trip across a few climates and I was easily able to sort my different outfits and keep track of my dirty laundry,” she says. Enjoy smart features like double zippers, carrying handles, and mesh top panels to see what's inside. This set of four certainly doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it gets the job done and holds enough for a long vacation.

Why we chose it : Affordable, lightweight, and easy to carry

More packing cubes we recommend:

If you're headed somewhere warm and plan to pack lightweight clothes, say a long weekend in Montauk or an island getaway , these Eagle Creek packing cubes are a solid, no-frills choice. This set comes with three pouches, sized extra small, small, and medium. These were tested by senior commerce editor Madison Flager , who says they're best used for lightweight clothes you can roll up or fold flat, like athletic clothes and T-shirts. “I find the extra small size is well-suited for underwear (about a week's worth, more than I thought could fit on first glance) or socks (around five ankle or no-shows, or two pairs of thicker socks). The small is good for T-shirts (three to five), and the biggest size, the medium, can accommodate one or two pairs of pants or two to three lighter sweaters,” Flager says. She admits she'll gravitate toward larger packing cubes like the Paravel set for extended trips, but will pull these out for weekend trips and overnights.

Why we chose it : Super lightweight, machine washable, and water-resistant

If you're an overpacker, choose a compressible set like these. This set from Monos features a zipper that closes around each cube, plus another zipper that allows you to squeeze everything down after the first one is shut. These fit a ton of clothing—more than any other cubes I've tried, so I typically whip these out for a weeklong vacation or when I'm traveling abroad. I love that the mesh panels allow me to see what's inside without having to open each one—this makes getting dressed on-the-go so easy. If you prefer a more colorful set, snag them in bright shades like banana budding or purple icing. —M.K.

Why we chose it: Water- and tear-resistant nylon, breathable mesh top panels

When it comes to design, SteamLine's luggage and travel accessories always stand out—and this applies to the brand's vibrant packing cubes, too. This set of four comes with three different sizes, all made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles. Commerce producer Paris Wilson gravitates toward these for shorter trips when she has limited space with a carry-on or duffel bag. “The material is durable yet soft and very easy to fold up and store in your closet when you’re not traveling,” Wilson says. She also notes that the zippers glide easily and that these packing cubes are machine washable.

Why we chose it : Vibrant patterns, a transparent window in each cube

One extremely cool feature of the Peak Design cubes is that each one has an internal divider, which means you can separate clean and dirty garments within the cube itself (or just further compartmentalize your items). The cubes are made from a sturdy nylon and poly blend, and feature two-way zippers plus a tear-away zipper that allows you to fully open the pack in less than a second, should you need instant access. The three-piece set (which includes a small cube, a medium cube, and a shoe pouch) is seen here, but you can also purchase these in a six- or eight-piece set, or purchase bags individually to fit your exact needs.

Why we chose it: Internal dividers that offer additional flexibility when you pack

This budget-friendly set of compressible packing cubes comes with one large cube, two medium size cubes, two small cubes, and one flat shoe bag. These are a go-to of commerce bookings editor Jamie Spain —but she warns these are pretty spacious, making them ideal for weeklong trips rather than weekend getaways or overnight stays. She likes these packing cubes for the smooth zippers and compressible, nylon material that's easy to manipulate in a tight suitcase. If you don't need a whole new set, you can also purchase Bagsmart cubes in a set of two or four.

Why we chose it : Affordable price point, available in several bright colors, flat shoe bag included

We tested several Amazon packing cubes and only the highest quality ones made it onto this list. We can attest that the material of the Bagail packing cubes is durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. The six-piece set, an Amazon bestseller, features three sizes, with two cubes in each size. Use them all yourself, or split them up with a partner or kids so you can better organize your suitcase. Another feature we like: The mesh tops that allow you to see straight into the cube.

Why we chose it: Easy to share among travel buddies

Another competitively priced set, these organizers have such rave reviews on Amazon that we had to try them—and they didn’t disappoint. The ultralight cubes are impeccably designed. The mesh panels on top allow you to easily identify your items, and the nylon material is durable and water-resistant, in case you’re anything spills. Between the four cubes, there’s enough room to pack clothing for trips up to 14 days. In the large cube alone, we were able to fit four pairs of bulky sweatpants, three pairs of jeans, and two pairs of leggings—and it all zipped up with ease.

Why we chose it: Great for longer trips, comes with a laundry bag

These budget-friendly packing cubes from Amazon are compressive, helping you save on space in your suitcase. After packing up a cube, we were able to shrink it down by three inches—which goes a long way, especially if you’re trying to fit everything into a carry-on or a single duffel. Other features include a double zipper, nylon material, and a carrying loop at the top.

Why we chose it: Affordable price point

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 best packing cubes of 2024, chosen by travel experts.

Packing cubes are the ultimate travel accessory.

The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

Even the most seasoned travelers can struggle to  pack efficiently , which is why packing cubes – organizational containers for your luggage – are so popular. You don't have to spend a lot of money for a quality set, either; in fact, some of the best packing cube sets are available for less than $20.

Read on to discover our packing cube picks in a variety of categories, based on travel expert recommendations and consumer reviews.

• Best Overall: Veken Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓
• Best Compression: Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set on Amazon
• Best for Backpacking: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set on Amazon
• Best Formalwear: Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter Set on Amazon
• Best for Kids: EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Best Size Options: Tripped Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Best for Style: Lug Compression Packing Cubes on QVC

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and supply chain issues.)

Best Overall: Veken Packing Cubes

Not only do the Veken Packing Cubes have 13,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating on Amazon, but they're also super affordable (and often discounted), making them a traveler favorite. "I never thought I needed packing cubes until I tried out the Veken set and realized how much easier packing (and unpacking!) could be," says Catriona Kendall , associate editor of Travel at U.S. News. "I usually have trouble staying organized, but I've taken these cubes everywhere from weekends away to a campervan vacation in New Zealand, and with all the different pieces in the set I'm finally able to keep my belongings in order."

The eight-piece set includes four mesh packing cubes plus four bags designated for dirty laundry, a pair of shoes, toiletries and miscellaneous small items. The Veken Packing Cubes are available in a dozen different colors.

Price: $23.99 or less

Best Compression: Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

"I swear by the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set," says Christine Sarkis, editor in chief at FamilyVacationist. "They're lightweight, you can see into them without needing to unzip them, and the fabric texture isn't slippery so as you're wedging carefully rolled items of clothing into them, they don't pop out." Made from recycled materials, these durable, water-resistant packing cubes are also backed by Eagle Creek's lifetime warranty. "I'm going on 20 years with mine!" says travel expert Candice Criscione of Mom in Italy. The Pack-It Reveal Cube Set includes three packing cubes in different sizes.

Price: $40 or less

Best for Backpacking: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set

The Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set from Eagle Creek comes highly recommended by frequent travelers, particularly for backpacking trips. Available in a set of two or three, these packing cubes are lightweight yet durable, with self-repairing zippers (standard on all Eagle Creek packing cubes) designed to withstand overpacking. The Isolate packing cubes are also machine-washable – a rarity for packing cubes.

Caroline Teel, managing editor at SmarterTravel, uses packing cubes specifically for adventure travel and appreciates that these compression bags are pre-treated with an anti-microbial agent that prevents odors. "Having used them on an eight-day hiking trip on Mount Kilimanjaro, I can confirm they work in that department!" she says. She adds that while she's tested a variety of packing cubes, she always comes back to Eagle Creek.

Price: $44.95 or less

Best for Formalwear: Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter Set

Slightly different from the Pack-It Reveal and Pack-It Isolate, the Pack-It Starter Set includes a large mesh folder with folder board for minimizing wrinkled garments – a good alternative to a traditional garment bag . The folder can hold up to 12 dress shirts, dresses, and the like, making this set an ideal choice for business travel or cruise vacations with formal nights. The other two cubes (small and medium-sized) are ideal for casual clothing, undergarments and accessories. These packing cubes are also treated with an anti-microbial agent to block odor-causing bacteria and – sans the folding board – they are water-resistant and machine washable.

Price: $54.95 or less

Best for Kids: EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes

Courtesy of EzPacking

"My kids prefer these clear packing cubes," says Sarkis. "They're a little deeper and more rigid, and you can see everything in them, which helps kids pack for themselves and stay organized on the road." Even if you travel with little ones , you may find these clear packing cubes useful for organizing baby gear and locating essentials on the go. The EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes come in a set of four and are available in a variety of colors.

Price: $56.99 or less

Best Size Options: Tripped Travel Gear Compression Cubes

Courtesy of Tripped Travel Gear

Many travelers like the compression cubes offered by Tripped Travel Gear, a small business owned by a globetrotting couple (and their adorable dog). Their innovative luggage line includes a two-, six- and seven-piece set of packing cubes; the seven-piece set is especially noteworthy for its variety of cubes, which includes a shoe bag, laundry bag and a tube-shaped cube that's useful for storing electronics such as hair irons.

These packing cubes also feature an external pocket. "You can use this pocket to store clothing as you use it, to keep the clean and dirty clothes separate," says Andrew Uyal of the travel blog Flights and Footsteps. The packing cubes are available in solid colors as well as national park and other travel-themed prints.

Best for Style: Lug Compression Packing Cubes

Courtesy of Lug

Luggage expert and senior editor of Travel at U.S. News, Rachael Hood , loves the fun colors and patterns – which include tartan plaid, polka dots and florals – on these packing cubes by Lug. The lightweight cubes can store a lot before compressing down to just one inch in thickness, and they each feature a carrying handle. "They make packing so easy," says Hood. "I can fit six to eight tops in the larger one and the smaller cube is ideal for socks and other accessories." She adds that these packing cubes make the perfect travel gift .

Price: $38 or less

How to Use Packing Cubes

• Pack a color-coded set for each person in your group: " We have different color packing cubes for each member of the family so when we open the suitcase, it's easy for everyone to grab their own color and get organized in the hotel room or wherever," says travel writer Terry Ward, who is frequently on the go with her family. She also notes that her family is able to save on luggage fees by using packing cubes in a single checked suitcase .
• Consider buying more than one set: Packing cubes are also useful for organizing toiletries, shoes , travel adapters and cords, and other miscellaneous items.
• Categorize each packing cube: Pack each cube by activity or clothing type, such as activewear, swimwear and underwear.
• Pack with the mesh side facing up: If you buy mesh packing cubes, this packing tip will help you easily identify the contents of each packing cube (which can be especially useful in the event you need to quickly locate items while at the airport).
• Roll your clothing: Many travelers swear by rolling their clothing instead of folding it in their luggage, noting this tactic saves space and minimizes wrinkles. Use the same method when placing items into your packing cubes.
• Use them for dirty laundry: If your packing cubes don't have pockets for dirty laundry like the Tripped Travel Gear bags do, you can still use them to contain dirty laundry; just avoid using mesh cubes if you're concerned about the smell of soiled clothing pervading your bag.
• Take them with you on errands: Packing cubes are useful for everyday outings, too. "I use a smaller packing cube to keep diapers, wipes and a changing pad handy in my backpack when we're out exploring," says Criscione.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most travelers and travel experts agree packing cubes are worth buying – especially considering there are so many affordable, quality options on the market. Because they're designed to save space, they can help you avoid unnecessary luggage fees. Plus, they can be used universally in everything from your luggage set to your weekender bag and even a backpack .

Yes, packing cubes save space by organizing clothing and accessories into individual compartments that neatly fit inside luggage. To maximize space in your luggage, choose compression packing cubes, which eliminate extra air and zip nearly flat.

Compression packing cubes zip nearly flat once packed, while traditional packing cubes maintain their shape and fit neatly into your luggage like pieces in a puzzle. While the decision between packing cubes and compression bags is ultimately a matter of personal preference, most travel experts agree compression packing cubes are best.

Rolling your clothing will help to maximize space and prevent wrinkles, regardless of whether or not you use packing cubes.

Packing cubes are reusable (and in many cases, washable), making them a more economical and sustainable alternative to Ziploc bags.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross strangely enjoys decluttering, a hidden "talent" that's especially useful when traveling. She owns the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set and recommends it to everyone she knows.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Neck Pillows for Travel
• The Most Useful Travel Accessories
• The Best Compression Socks for Travel

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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T&C Tried & True : The Compression Packing Cubes That Make Carryon Only Even Easier

Saving space and efficiency are the name of the seasoned traveler's game after all.

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.

Here at T&C, we pride ourselves on our discerning eye for quality. With Tried & True, our editors will give you an inside look at the pieces they simply cannot live without.

LeanTravel LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes for Travel Organizers with Double Zipper (3-Pack (2L+1M), Black)

I've been traveling a ton recently, but on a trip last year, I had to prepare for a full week abroad with an outfit for both day and night, in vastly different climates (potentially chilly in Paris, and boiling hot in Arles). I have to admit, I was really grappling with whether I was going to end up violating my own rules and checking a bag. But sometimes the internet delivers (algorithms are really something!) and almost as if by design, while I was worrying/planning, I came across a TikTok of Bethenny Frankel discussing packing cubes that were actually worth it, which I implicitly trusted because Bethenny seems to have the same amount of patience for nonsense and inefficiency that I do... exactly zero. So in my cart the LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes went, arriving on my doorstep right as I started to plot out my outfit plan for a week away in France.

And let me tell you, they are no joke. Not only did I get a full week of pajamas and workout clothes (which I didn't use, SMH) packed, but I had seven full days worth of outfits, and changes for the evening, plus one or two extra pieces just in case. And not only did I get my bag to close easily, the double zip compression saved me so much space that I was able to bring along 4 pairs of shoes, and still (still!) have room to do some shopping. Color me impressed.

Needless to say, Bethenny wasn't messing around when she recommended the LeanTravel Compression cubes and neither am I. I am buying more to see if the bigger sizes buy me even more wiggle room in my game of carryon bag Tetris. If you're traveling this summer, don't think twice. Once you go compression cube (specifically these), you don't go back. At least I haven't. In fact, I haven't traveled without them since I got them.

As the deputy digital lifestyle director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel. 

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10 Best Compression Bags for Travel in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

Most travelers who enjoy a relaxed trip without bulky luggage may come to learn the benefits of utilizing compression bags. Whether you’re taking a month-long trip with your wife or best friend, you want to make the most of every single space. Backpackers traveling around the globe, in particular, would enjoy a reliable compression bag because they are continually going from location to location in order to move easily and compactly as possible with a bag.

Packing light is ideal for flying. If it’s a quick break or a month-long visit, seasoned travelers know how to hold it all to a bare minimum. Put in exactly what’s needed. Recycle clothes and practice mixing and matching. Most do laundry while traveling, though some will resort to buying as the need appears. The less you carry, the easier you can proceed. Despite the utility of these travel packing ideas, there is still a great number of people that would still overpack. This is where having the best compression bags for travel becomes handy for you.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 9 hrs of research

TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel – Best Value

Why is it better?

• The ballistic nylon seems very good
• The compression zip alleviates the back from adverse strain during the zipping process
• The positioning of where the handle is stitched into, as well as the size of the handle make a big difference down the line
• Durable and packable

Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack – Premium Pick

• The compression straps are tough
• There is clasp in which you can fold down the top of the bag so it will be watertight
• There is extra room just in case you want to pack anything else you may want to compress
• The stitching is strong and seems well constructed

Best Compression Bags for Travel – Overview

There are three common types of compression bags. There are zip-top bags, simple drawstring sacks, and buckled nylon bags. The first type — thick zip-top plastic bags work by either rolling the packed bag in such a way that the remaining air flows through a one-way valve or using a vacuum to remove trapped air. The most common compression bags, the drawstring pack are perfect for sleeping bags but do not have the best clothes compression. And then there are nylon plastic bags with buckles — one of the better carrying choices for clothes. They are square or rectangular form and is ideal for clothes packing, and their buckles essentially allow you to compress your clothes best.

Compression Bags for Travel Reviews

1. osprey packs straightjacket compression sack.

Backpacks are just the beginning of the journey. Osprey makes gear-carrying solutions – big and small. Before your gear ends up in a pack, these smartly designed accessories allow you to pack more efficiently, stay better organized, and find and grab the gear you need when you need it.

Keep your gear dry and secure with the Osprey Packs StraightJacket Compression Sack . Compressible design makes this easy to pack away when not in use. There is a water-resistant fabrication with a waterproof coating at seams. It also has a spacious main compartment with zip closure and compression straps. Lastly, webbing grab handle is added for easy carry.

Key Features:

• Compressible nylon wings and buckles can be utilized for maximum compression to fit extra gear
• Rectangular shape assists with efficient packing
• Water-resistant coating helps keep gear and clothing dry and protected

Specifications:

• Brand: Osprey
• Dimensions: 2″ H x 9″ W x 12″ D
• Weight: 0.2 lbs
• The buckles are small and made of plastic but they do not feel cheap
• Has a wide opening so everything fits easily inside
• It’s a wonderfully simplistic way to compress your clothes to make room for all the other materials
• It’s also good for backpacking
• A lift handle on one end for future designs as this would make it easier to remove from top loading backpacks

2. Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL Compression Sack

When you need to compress volume without significantly adding weight, the Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL Compression Sack is an excellent solution. Made from a 30D diamond rip-stop siliconized CORDURA fabric, these bags can be compressed to one-third of the original volume. Ideal for use inside your pack or travel bag when you need to compress clothing or bulky soft items to allow space for other essentials.

The 4 extra long straps allow for max capacity and even compression around the bag. Bar tack reinforced stress points for durability. Pull handle on the bottom for easy loading and unloading. Slippery finish for easy packing inside a backpack or bag. Note: seams are not tape-sealed; therefore this product is not waterproof – only water-resistant.

• 30d diamond ripstop siliconized Cordura
• Internal pack organization
• 4 extra long straps
• Bottom pull handle on the bottom
• Brand: Sea to Summit
• Capacity: 20L
• Dimensions: 14.4″ H x 11.2″ W x 1.2″ D
• Weight: 0.22 lbs
• Its ultralight
• Very compressible
• The fabric is very thin and light, but it’s also tough
• The tightening straps are easy to work with and adjustable
• Not fully waterproof

3. TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel – Best Value

The search for the perfect compression packing cubes set ends here. TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes for Travel are the perfect blend of high quality and affordable to make this the ultimate travel accessory- whether you’re looking for a backpacking organizer or a way to organize your carry-on suitcase.

These are not your typical vacuum bags-these expandable cubes use a two zipper system to help eliminate the extra bulk when packing your luggage. The ripstop Polyurethane fabric stands up to nonstop travel. It is ultra-lightweight and durable and as well as being more reliable than even nylon alternatives for packing cubes. Additionally, polyurethane fabric is water-resistant to help keep moisture out of your clothes wherever they’re packed. Zipper on the packing cubes all have reinforced zipper stops. We also made a guide on some great luggage sets for international travel .

• Water-resistant
• Ripstop Polyurethane fabric
• Smooth zippers
• Brand: TRIPPED Travel Gear
• Dimensions: 14″ H x 10″ W x 4″ D
• Smaller than regular packing cubes so cannot hold as much

4. ALPS Mountaineering Compression Stuff Sack

Clothing, sleeping bags, towels, and bedding take up a lot of space when traveling, but they don’t have too! Available in four different sizes, the ALPS Mountaineering Compression Stuff Sack will help you to maximize space in your pack, trunk or backseat!

There is a top lid with a zippered pocket to keep small items easily accessible. Zippered pocket reverses to become a storage pouch. Bottom webbing grab handles with d-rings allow easy carrying and multiple attachment options. Its also made of lightweight polyester ripstop with bartacked stress points.

• Top lid with zippered pocket
• Bottom handle with d-ring clips
• Bartacked stress points
• Lightweight polyester ripstop fabric
• Brand: ALPS Mountaineering
• Dimensions: 9″ H x 9″ W x 20″ D
• Weight: 0.62 lbs
• Four cinch straps
• Very well constructed
• The set came with the compression sack itself as well as a small black mesh bag for storing the empty compression sack
• The seams are also double-stitched with bar-tacked stress points
• End caps could be a little smaller to allow for more compression

5. Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack – Premium Pick

The Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack is made from a sturdy 70D Nylon waterproof fabric in the body and lid, with an eVent® waterproof but air-permeable base that allows air to be pushed out of the sack. No need for a purge valve, making these lighter and simpler. The four compression straps, use hypalon roll-top non-wicking closure. These dry sacks are the epitome of durability, versatility, and compression.

The eVent Compression Dry Sacs are rated to 10,000mm hydrostatic head – more than sufficient water protection for paddle use (avoid full submersion.) There is no need to worry about your contents getting wet, so when you get to camp, you can get into a cozy jacket, blanket, or sleeping bag. Super tough, super pliable, high thread-count 70 Denier fabrics and it’s white visible color make it easy to find in your bag. Feel free to check out our guide on some great lightweight luggage for international travel .

• Air permeable eVent fabric base allows air to be pushed out but water can’t get in
• Rugged 70D Nylon body
• Waterproof seams – double stitched and tape sealed
• Reinforced stitching on all stress points
• Pull handle on the bottom
• Weight: 0.33 lbs
• It can take some practice to put the straps on correctly in the dark

6. SUITEDNOMAD Compression Packing Cubes Set

While other travel packing cubes are way too small, rip after a few trips or their zippers are impossible to close, the SUITEDNOMAD Compression Packing Cubes Set come with 2 large and 1 medium size well-made bags. The reinforced seams are extra durable to ensure that you don’t get stuck with ripped bags in the middle of your travels. Our premium zipper slides smoothly even when the cubes are full.

Made of 100% ripstop and water-resistant nylon which fully protects your clothing during any adventure. The sleek design will fit perfectly any luggage without wasting space and a sturdy handle allows for incredible portability. The unique double zipper compression system removes all the air from the bag and makes it incredibly compact

• Reinforced seams
• Ripstop fabric
• Sturdy handle
• Brand: SUITEDNOMAD
• Dimensions: 10.24″ H x 2.36″ W x 0.87″ D
• Weight: 0.43 lbs
• The compression zipper is very nice
• This set is a 6-pack, so it has basically everything that you would need to stay organized
• The quality of the fabric and zippers is absolutely top-notch
• Its ripstop fabric
• The zippers could be larger

7. REDCAMP Nylon Compression Bag for Travel

The REDCAMP Nylon Compression Bag for Travel is made of lightweight nylon material, high quality, water-resistant, durable fabric, and steady for a longer lifespan. Adjustable and sturdy widen strap can compact the bag to minimum condition for you to store it in your car, shoulder, backpack. It saves space. It is convenient for you to take it anywhere you go.

Features include a top lid with a zippered pocket to keep small items easily accessible, 4 adjustable straps that allow you to remove extra air inside your belongings, without unsightly bulging. The bottom handle strap is comfortable to carry

• Side adjustable buckle
• Made of lightweight Nylon material
• Comes with 4 adjustable straps
• Brand: REDCAMP
• Capacity: 27L
• Dimensions: 22.1″ H x 9.8″ W x 9.8″ D
• Weight: 0.28 lbs
• The material of the bag is very thin, but it is sewn together very well and feels pretty strong
• The straps are nice and easy to use too compress your item
• Half of the straps have a buckle to easily remove your item when you need it
• Compresses well
• Smaller than advertised

8. Hibag 12 Travel Compression Bags

Hibag 12 Travel Compression Bags are perfect for traveling, saving 80% space for your home and suitcases, providing you the best storage solution. Every bag at Hibag is uniquely designed with extremely thick material, smart zipper, specially designed valve, and stay-one slider, to ensure air-tightness.

Stay-one clips prevent clips from falling off the zipper or missing. The zipper is very smooth to open and close. When you close the zipper, the yellow line will be stuck between the two blue lines, clearly telling you if the zipper is properly closed. No need to use a vacuum cleaner or an electric pump or a hand pump to suck the air out. You only need to roll the bag from the zipper to the bottom and air is all pushed out. It’s perfect on the go.

• Includes 12 bags (6 M size & 6 L size)
• Double zip design
• Stay-on clip
• Simple to use rolling
• Brand: Hibag
• Dimensions: 6.9″ H x 2.3″ W x 10.8″ D
• Weight: 1.35 lbs
• Very easy to use and hold a lot of clothes
• The compression bag has a thicker plastic that holds up well for many packs
• The zip top was easy to use and easy to see with the two different color zips
• These bags seal tight
• You really have to listen to the “don’t fill bag past this line” rule or else the bag doesn’t roll like it should

9. GoBackTrail Compression Stuff Sack

Have you ever gone on a trip without everything you needed? Was this due to a lack of room or storage space? If so GoBackTrail has designed the perfect solution! The GoBackTrail Compression Stuff Sack was designed to shrink the size of your belongings up to 30 Percent!

These premium compression bags are made from high quality water-resistant, polyester. Each sack has 4 vertical one-inch wide compression straps with 2 buckles that cinch and two that unclip. This is the best design as it is less complicated and easier to load and unload the sack.

• 4 one-inch wide “compression” straps
• 2 buckles cinches
• Polyester material
• Water-resistance
• Brand: GoBackTrail
• Capacity: 14L
• Dimensions: 15″ H x 9″ W x 9″ D
• Weight: 0.23 lbs
• The sacks are fairly light
• Compresses clothes well
• The 2 clips are also helpful when opening it up
• Sturdy design
• The top “flap” isn’t attached to the bag, it’s attached to the bottom if bag with three straps, this makes it difficult to manage

10. AmazonBasics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags

Save space where you need it most with the AmazonBasics Vacuum Compression Storage Bags . This incredible storage solution allows you to easily vacuum-seal clothing, linens, drapery, and much more. Expertly protect your essentials and heirlooms from insects, mold, bad odors, and moisture while saving space at the same time.

Perfect for safely vacuum-sealing seasonal clothing, special linens, or bulky textiles, the AmazonBasics compression bags not only protect your items but shrink them down approximately 80% for compact, stackable storage. Stay organized and effectively store your personal effects for long-term preservation. The AmazonBasics storage bag set comes with a convenient hand pump that allows you to efficiently seal each bag to your desired compression.

• Heavy-duty plastic vacuum-seal compression bags
• Compresses clothing, linens, and more down 80%
• Defends against damage from insects, mold, odors, and more
• Hand pump included or connect to vacuum hose for quick compression
• Air tight valve and double zipper closure
• Brand: AmazonBasics
• Dimensions: 11.8″ H x 9″ W x 3.5″ D
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Sizes were good and not hard to use
• The pump provided works like a charm
• Feels very sturdy
• Vacuums down quickly
• It’s a little difficult to get things settled in without a lot of wrinkles

Buying Guide

Ideally, you want to use a lightweight bag that is around 20% or less of the total weight for packing. Something more than that can leave you concerned about getting it completely packed until it’s checked in under the weight cap. Moreover, because the bag weighs more it places you at a disadvantage for how many things you can carry with you.

Because most compression sacks are made of nylon, they already have some sort of water-resistance. Nevertheless, considering the volatile traveling conditions, it’s better to buy waterproof, particularly if you have a larger compression sack as your main luggage type.

As for everything else, when it comes to compression bags, you get what you pay for. Aside from the reasons listed above, the other aspect you want to remember is when and how much you’ll need a compression pack. If you pay less than $10, you ‘re still going to be able to pack your baggage just as easily as if you were going to invest 10 times that price, but it’s not going to last quite as long. You often run the risk of losing or ripping the bag during your journey and locating a substitute quickly will be challenging depending on your destination.

Another issue that is mentioned occasionally using compression bags for travel is the breaking of the seams. Because you are going to compress and put stress on these stitches, the performance of the stitching is also significant. For a compression block to break mid-journey, it may be a major pain between your travels. Without a functioning compression bag, you may not be able to fit anything in your bag. Ideally, the material must be durable enough to survive the natural conditions, as well as to resist rips and breaks.

Compression Type

The more common are external adjustable straps that allow you to compress the bag manually, with air fleeing through the top closure. Alternate solutions often operate for an air purging system that uses a fabric that is waterproof but air-permeable. For the purging method, the permeable content helps air to escape when you pack and compress the bag, which probably makes compression more lightweight and effective.

Frequently Ask Questions

What is a compression bag used for.

Compression bags are used to cut bigger items, such as clothes or sleeping bags, on size and weight. Compression bags allow you to cram more stuff into your luggage by eliminating excess air and limiting things to the minimum amount of space available. Compression bags are nice to organize and conserve space, but they are difficult to open in a hurry.

Are compression bags good for travel?

They are very good for travel if you intend on bringing a lot of items like clothes for your travel or backpacking trip. But if you don’t anticipate a lot of bulky items, then a packing cube might be more suited for you.

How do you travel with a compression bag?

To use a standard travel compression bag (those that look like a giant zip loc bag), fold, don’t roll, your clothing. Before closing, roll the bag like a giant toothpaste tube to get all the air out of it. Seal off, flatten, and pack up. Wash them with dish soap and a towel to scrub.

Do compression bags reduce weight?

No, they might compress your bulky clothes but they actually add a bit of weight. Although it won’t be much so this shouldn’t be a concern if you’re trying to save on weight since the weight add would be minimal.

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best compression bags for travel as well as our guide on features to look for in a compression bag for travel. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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Compression Packing Cubes: Are They Worth It? Exploring Compression vs. Standard Options

by Ashleigh Page Last Updated: Jan 13, 2024 Packing Cubes , Travel Gear

Page Contents

Compression Packing Cubes vs Standard Packing Cubes: Do They Actually Work?

If you’ve just started doing some research on packing cubes, then you may be finding yourself feeling a touch overwhelmed by the level of choice out there.

I know that because, well, you’re here.

I’ve loved to travel for years, and it was only recently (after I did some in depth research) that I discovered the amazing benefits of packing cubes – and the various types of packing cubes available.

Who would have thought that a small material bag could be so diverse…

Anyway, depending on the sources and images you reference, it can be really confusing to clearly differentiate between standard packing cubes and packing cubes with compression functionality , and the various brands/products available on the market,

If you’re anything like me, you may also be wondering whether it’s worth investing the extra coin into buying a compression packing cube – given they are often more expensive compared to a standard packing cube.

But have no fear…In this article, I’m going to do my best to help you by answering the following questions:

• What is a compression packing cube and how does it differ from a standard packing cube?
• Do compression packing cubes ACTUALLY work?
• Types of compression packing cubes you can buy
• Is the “added” compression worth the extra dollars?

Towards the end of this article, I also provide some tips and recommendations on popular compression packing cube brands that you can buy online for added convenience and cost-saving.

But, before we jump into that, let’s first consider why you would even want to buy a packing cube with compression functionality in the first place.

1. What is a Compression Packing Cube?

A compression packing cube is a type of packing cube that is said to offer greater compression compared to a standard packing cube.

They often include an additional zip so that they can more effectively compress the air out of your clothes, supposedly helping to create additional space within your luggage.

Unlike standard packing cells, it is often recommended that you fold your clothing. It is believed that this will give you better compression. I can actually vouch for this as I have tested rolling vs folding myself.

This differs from standard packing cubes in that rolling is usually the better method to include more, save space and reduce wrinkles.

Related Articles: 

• 8 Best Packing Cube Tips for Travellers | Top Things to Know About Packing Cubes
• How to Pack a Packing Cube Efficiently (& 3 Easy Hacks to Save Space)
• 4 Best Packing Cubes & Packing Cells for Australian Backpackers

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2. the benefits of packing cubes for travellers (with and without compression functionality).

Some of you may be wondering – “Are packing cubes worth it?”.

In my opinion, one of the main benefits of packing cubes overall is that they help you to organise and save space in your travel backpack. They also make it much easy to find and remove items from your luggage, without having to disrupt the entire pack.

When I travel, I use packing cubes to:

• Keep my bag orderly and organised
• Separate my winter / bulky clothes from my lighter clothes
• Protect my clothing from any leaks in my bag
• Hide and secure identity documents or valuables within my clothes  (eg. passport, credit cards, small tech, cash and valuables).
• Protect my fragile items when moving between destinations (by rolling them securely amongst my clothes)

According to some, the added benefits that packing cubes with compression functionality is that they save more space. However, from my experience with different packing cubes I do feel that this can be a bit hit or miss.

3. Do Compression Packing Cubes Even Work?

Before doing some research, I often found myself wondering whether compression packing cubes actually work and whether they’re worth buying at all?

Personally, I’ve come across travellers who passionately RAVE about compression packing cubes, as well as those who don’t understand the hype.

I must admit I fall into the second group… (sorry, not sorry!)

As someone who prefers to be authentically honest with you guys, and base things off my personal experience – I’m yet to be convinced that the extra zip of the “compression” packing cubes, really makes a huge difference.

Sure… when outside of your bag, the packing cubes with added compression functionality look to be more condensed than standard cubes.

But once inside your bag, I find that both cubes act very similarly, with any extra air compressed naturally as you start to add everything else in. 

The Compression Test

Given the mixed reviews about whether compression packing cubes actually work, I wanted to do a bit of a test.

At least that way I feel like I can provide an honest and unbiased opinion . ….The classic “curiosity killed the cat” scenario…

To compare against my set of standard packing cubes, I decided to order the Tripped Compression Packing Cubes .

You can watch the full video of the review below:

On first impression, these packing cubes look to be a quality product, with high quality durable zips, slippery water resistant material and have some structure to the cell.

However, here are some of the key points and downsides that I highlighted from my observation.

Video Summary: 

In the video, I compare Shacke Pak’s standard packing cube versus the Tripped compression packing cube.

I tested the packing cubes by filling both with similar amounts of clothing and comparing what they looked like naturally (uncompressed) and after being compressed (the Tripped compression packing cube)

The Tripped compression cube was slightly more difficult to pack, given it only opens around a third of the way, which was somewhat inconvenient. I also found that although it closed well with the same amount of clothing as the Shacke Pak cube, after compression it didn’t look a lot thinner – ie. it wouldn’t save you that much more space in your luggage.

Given the majority of the compression occurred around the perimeter of the packing cube rather than consistently across the entire cube, I felt that both cubes looked pretty similar when compared with one another in terms of width.

I also physically showed the difference in the results due to rolling versus folding the clothing and as mentioned in the video, there wasn’t a lot of difference between the two.

In conclusion, I’m not convinced that this type of compression packing cube provides enough benefit to justify the extra price tag compared to a standard packing cube.

Some other downsides of these compression packing cubes:

For every product, there’s going to be some kind of downside, even if small. Here are a couple for the Tripped packing cubes.

• The zips only open to around a half / third of the way which does cause cause some restriction while you pack. Not a deal breaker though.
• The material is actually incredibly slippery. Combined with the smaller opening, I found that this made it harder to pack them, especially when stacked on top of one another.
• In order for the compression to work, you need to fold your clothes, not roll. This does somewhat restrict the amount of clothing you can pack, especially for thick and bulky clothing
• Despite marketed as convenient, the first time I packed these cells I couldn’t get the compression zip to zip up. It seemed like I had packed too much despite the cell being “just full”. I therefore had to unpack and repack, removing around a third of my clothes in the cell. This did add some frustration and extra time into the process compared to my old packing cubes.

So, does the compression work?

In terms of whether the compression works, my answer is a combination of Yes and No.

• Did the second zip compress the cells? Yes.
• But is it enough to really make a difference to your packing? I’m not sure.

I tested my theory by packing the same amount of clothes into my old packing cells ( very worn as you can see) and the Tripped compression cells.

I started with 7 items of clothing (a combination of jumpers, pants, skirts and tops) , however had to remove 3 of these from the Tripped packing cube because it would’t compress. My old packing cube fit the 7 pieces of clothing comfortably.

Before compression, the Tripped packing cube was 7-8cm in width ( the same as my old cube), and even after compressing, the parcel’s max width remained the same. This is because although the edges were thinned out by the compression, the clothes were simply pushed to the centre causing a bulge in the middle.

Particularly true for large bulky items over small delicates (eg. undies, socks, and bras).

Although the packing cubes were somewhat translucent, it isn’t easy to tell what you’ve packed inside without unpacking (unless you know your clothes by colour – which is hard for me given I wear a lot of black).

I also demonstrated this in the video above.

•   8 Best Packing Cube Tips for Travellers | Top Things to Know About Packing Cubes

4. Best Compression Packing Cubes

In the video above, I only focused on the Tripped compression packing cubes , however there are many different types and brands of compression packing cubes that you can check out for heightened compression.

Here are some of the best compression packing cubes brands and products I shortlisted after spending hours of research on

1 . Tripped Compression Packing Cubes

Although they didn’t perform as well as I expected them to within the video, Tripped compression packing cubes for travellers still remain a popular and highly rated product on Amazon.

These packing cubes with compression functionality are marketed as being “created by travellers for travellers”. However, I do feel they conveniently look A LOT like Eagle Creek’s compression cubes (below).

Almost a cheaper copy, if I’m completely honest…

Compare the images of both of them and see what you think….

• Medium: 36cm x 25cm x 3cm-10cm
• Small: 25cm x 18cm x 3-10cm
• Material : Made from water resistant, ripstop Nylon
• Colour : Translucent white and Green
• Reviews : 79% 5 star reviews, of 3000+ reviews
• These compression packing cubes are made from smooth rip-stop Nylon making them  light-weight, translucent, water resistant and strong.
• The translucent features allow you to vaguely see what is inside each cube, rather than having to open the cube every time. This can save you from opening multiple identical cubes to try and find what you need. 
• This brand is advertised to have strong snag-free zippers and an easy to grab handle which makes it easier to pull the cube out of your backpack
• Some customers mentioned that the handle broke at first use , which isn’t ideal. 
• These compression packing cubes  don’t have a lot of structure. This means that a bulge tends to form in the middle of the cube after compression, rather than compressing evening across the entire cube.
• Although advertised as having “snag free” zippers, some customers have mentioned that they experienced the zip catching on the bag’s fabric. It’s hard to know whether they just got a dodgy cube…or if this is a common trend. I did personally notice this happening when I had overfilled the bag, so may be something to keep in mind. 

View on Amazon AUS | View on Amazon.com

2. eagle creek compression packing cubes.

Eagle Creek is a well known brand across the globe, and also offer a range of compression packing cubes.  However, are they worth the extra money? I’ll share my thoughts with you below.

• Small: 25.5cm x 18cm x 8cm
• Medium: 36cm x 25.5 cm x 8 cm
• Material : Nylon
• Colour : White and Green, Blue or patterned
• Reviews : 81% 5 star reviews, of 1400+ reviews
• These compression cubes are made from strong non-rip Nylon material and are said to be light-weight, water-resistant, washable and contain anti-staining properties
• Eagle Creek advertise that the cubes have a less than 1% return rate, with the cubes proven to make  it easier to compress clothing and save space in your luggage
• Eagle Creek offer a Lifetime Warranty and will replace the product in the event of product failure.
• Expensive . These packing cells are a lot more expensive than other packing cubes on the market
• To make the cells lighter, the zipper only opens on two sides. This is similar to the Tripped compression packing cubes, and makes packing more difficult compared to standard packing cubes that you can open entirely / on 3-4 sides.
• There have been some complaints of the compression zipper getting caught on the internal lining of the packing cubes. Therefore, although the material feels durable, you will want to take care when packing to ensure the material doesn’t rip. 
• Some customers have claimed that there’s not much benefit of using these compression cubes compared to standard packing cubes for the additional price – the compression doesn’t seem to make a HUGE difference.

3. Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

Gonex is another popular compression packing cube brand on Amazon , with a pretty solid reputation. In this section, I’ll be reviewing their compression packing cube set, which consists of three different-sized packing cubes.

• Large: 37cm x 27 cm x 9cm
• Medium: 30cm x 22.5 x 9 cm
• Small: 25cm x 19cm x 8cm
• Colour : Black, Grey & other
• Reviews : 70% 5 star reviews, of 1300+ reviews
• Gonex products are generally well-made, good quality and lightweight.
• The compression functionality of these packing cells does seem to create more space within your luggage.
• Product is typically delivered on time
• Gonex offer a 30-day money back guarantee and 1 year warranty which is good. This allows you to easily return the product if there are any issues with it.
• Only 70% of the 1300+ reviews are 5 star which is quite low compared to the other products mentioned
• Some customers have mentioned that despite appearances, these compression packing cubes don’t have as solid a structure as you’d think from the images. However, I don’t think this is necessarily a bad thing. Not having a rigid structure means that you can more easily stuff the cubes into your back pack and into the space you have available. 
• Similar to the others mentioned above, the zipper doesn’t open entirely. This seems to be a shared issue amongst a few of the different brands of compression cells.
• The expanding zipper can occasionally clamp your clothing, however this is easily fixed by pausing and pulling the zip back slowly.

View on Amazon (AUS) | View on Amazon.com

5. is compression functionality worth the extra dollars.

I hope that I have helped to give you a bit more of an insight into compression packing cubes, and how they different from standard packing cubes / cells,

Although, the idea behind “compression” packing cubes is really great, I’d probably just stick with my standard Shacke Pak’s packing cubes.

In my opinion, I don’t believe that compression packing cubes provide a big enough benefit to justify the premium price tag compared to many of your standard packing cubes.

Based off my experience (and testing the two different types of packing cubes myself) , I found that there really was little difference between the two cubes in terms of width and length, even after compression.

Although compression packing cubes do feel tighter and more compact once compressed, standard packing cubes will naturally compress as you pack them your bag (eg. a travel backpack). The extra air within them can naturally be pushed out of the bag the more that you fill your bag.

I would even go so far to argue that in some cases, compression packing cubes make it HARDER for you to unpack your clothes, given the double zips – meaning you have to open multiple zips to access your clothing.

If you are particularly set on getting compression cubes, I’d suggest trying one of the popular and highly rate options above. 

6. Do Compression Packing Cubes Save Space?

Depending on what they’re used for and how they’re packed, compression packing cubes can help to save some space in your luggage – especially for bulkier items.

They also help with compartmentalising your clothes, preventing you from having to unpack everything to find a specific piece of clothing or misplaced items.

Most compression packing cubes provide designated pockets so you can clearly categorise your clothing and belongings, ensuring a tidy and space-efficient packing experience.

Standard packing cubes strike a balance, offering compression and durability without burdening you with extra weight.

On the other hand, compression packing cubes step up when dealing with bulkier items, perfect for winter getaways or business ventures with specific wardrobe demands.

7. What are the factors to consider when choosing the best compression packing cube?

To choose the best compression packing cube for your needs, I’d suggest weighing up the below factors. Here are some pivotal considerations:

1. Zipper Opening Style:

Decide between a full clamshell-style opening and a half opening. A clamshell style provides direct access whereas a half-opening style only allows you to open it halfway when packing. Personally I prefer packing cubes with a “half opening” style.

3. Zipper Pulls and Quantity:

For convenient opening and closing, look for packing cubes with 1-2 zipper pulls on them. This can help to provide added functionality and flexibility. Dual zippers also simplify opening and closing.

4. Handles:

Handles, while not essential, can aid in lifting cubes, especially from top-loading backpacks. Opt for handles that are flat and sit close to the cube when not in use.

5. Durability:

Choose packing cubes crafted from robust “rip-free” materials. I also suggest assessing the seam and stitching quality to help ensure prolonged longevity.

6. Brand Reputation:

Favour renowned brands with positive reviews for reliability. Research customer feedback on specific packing cubes to gauge their performance.

Some good brands to check out include Eagle Creek, Tripped or Kathmandu.

Alternatively, you can check out some of our recommended standard packing cube options below:

I hope this has helped you with your research. As always, if you have any questions on packing cubes, feel free to reach out.

If you want to learn more tips about travelling solo for the first time, you can also sign up for our FREE Solo Travel Bootcamp e-course, to help you get started.

Happy travelling!

Frequently Asked Questions

Compression cubes can be used to optimize packing space. With an additional zip mechanism, they can help to compress clothing, providing a compact and organized solution for travelers. They’re particularly beneficial when dealing with bulkier items like winter clothes or a specific business wardrobe (unless you’re looking for a wrinkle-free solution).

While compression packing cubes don’t directly reduce the weight of your clothes, they contribute to a more efficient packing strategy. By compressing items and creating more streamlined organization, they may indirectly help manage the weight distribution in your luggage, preventing unnecessary bulk.

Some argue that folding provides better compression, while others find rolling more efficient. Experimenting with both methods can help determine which works best for your specific clothing items and the type of compression packing cube you’re using. Personally, I prefer to roll my clothing when using standard packing cubes and fold if using a compression or 2-sided cube.

Delicate fabrics may experience some wrinkling, so careful folding or rolling is advisable. Wrinkling in compression packing cubes can vary. While the compression feature aims to minimize wrinkles by eliminating excess air, the effectiveness depends on factors such as the fabric of your clothes and how tightly they are packed.

A little tip: If you want to unwrinkle your clothing when travelling, try putting it on a coat hanger and hanging it on the back of the bathroom door during your next shower. The steam from the shower can help to smooth the material out.

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The Best Packing Squares to Organize and Optimize Your Suitcase

For more of the Cut’s favorite fashion, beauty, and home finds,  sign up for the weekly  Cut Shop Newsletter .

Ahh, the packing process. It’s filled with so much anticipation yet so much dread; the buildup to a long-haul vacation or a short weekend trip is exciting, but it’s always a struggle to pack everything you need into a reasonably sized suitcase . And doing it efficiently is an art form that savvy frequent fliers have mastered with the help of packing cubes. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your organization game or just trying to figure out how to fit as much stuff into your suitcase as possible, read on for your guide to the best packing cubes to buy now and how to make the most of them, according to experts.

[data-uri="www.thecut.com/_components/clay-subheader/instances/clvgke8bi000q3b7b9nydjnsq@published"]{font-family:'Chap',Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:2.5px;text-transform:uppercase;line-height:18px} SO what do you need to know about packing cubes?

➼  FAQs ➼  Our top picks ➼  More tried-and-true options ➼ Our experts

. Our Top Picks:

The one-cube wonder.

Colors: Black | Materials: Nylon | Dimensions: 9.8” X 14.0” X 4.5” | Weight: 0.4 pounds

Victor Sanz, the creative director at Tumi, calls this dual-component packing cube a “life-changing packing tool.” It features two sections, great for separating delicate items from everyday things, and a mesh top covering that allows you see what’s inside. “As a frequent flier myself, I‘ve found this to be a life-changing addition to my travel routine,” Sanz says. “I love how it has separate compartments so I can organize outfits, as well as a mesh top so I can easily see what’s in the cube.”

The Best for Overpackers

Colors: 5 | Materials: Nylon | Dimensions (per each cube): Large: 13” × 9.8” × 4.5”, Medium: 13” × 7.1” × 4.5”, Square Small: 10.2” × 8.3” × 4.5”, Smallest: 9.8” × 4.3” × 4.5”

If you’re an overpacker like myself, add these dynamic compression cubes to your cart. Not only are they great for organization, they’re also specifically designed to give you more suitcase space. Made of tear-resistant nylon twill, the compression-cube zippers allow you to save space and compress height by up to 60 percent, making more room in your suitcase for extra items.

The Fan Favorite

Colors: 13 | Materials: Nylon | Dimensions: Small Wide: 10” x 4.1” x 8.25”, Medium Slim: 10” x 4.1” x 4.3”, Medium Wide: 13” x 4.1” x 10”, Large Slim: 13” x 4.1” x 6.9” |  Weight: 0.5 pounds

If you’re on the hunt for classic, dependable, and durable packing cubes, look no further than Away’s best-selling cubes that work to compress and organize. “Away’s signature packing cubes are the Insider Packing Cubes , which come in a set of four or six, depending on how much you plan to pack. They’re made with water-resistant nylon and fit seamlessly into any Away suitcase, offering extra protection for your belongings while allowing you to quickly find what you need with ease,” says Luigi Auricchio, the company’s VP of design. Away also has the Protective Packing Cube , specially made with padded dividers to keep delicate or valuable items extra safe during travel.

More Tried-and-True Options:

The monogrammable option.

Colors: 7 | Materials: Negative Nylon® | Dimensions: Large: 18” x 3.75” x 12”, Medium: 12.75” x 3.75” x 10”, Small: (x2) 8.2” x. 3.75” x 6.25” |  Weight: 0.56 pounds

You may already be familiar with Paravel’s sustainable suitcases , but its packing cubes, also made of ethically sourced materials, are a favorite among frequent fliers like Champalimaud design principal Courtney Brannan. “I love the coordinating packing cubes, which help me to stay organized and prepared for multiple destinations where the weather may not be the same,” Brannan told the Cut earlier this year. Made of lightweight, water-resistant nylon, this packing-cube set fits everything from undergarments and pants to larger items like light jackets and towels. It also features a transparent window so you can see what’s inside. Paravel is known for custom monogramming on its luggage and packing cubes for those who love a little personalization.

The More Affordable Compression Ones

Colors: 21 | Materials: Cotton, linen, polyester | Dimensions (per cube): Shoe bag: 21.5” x 12” x 5”, Small: 13” x 5 x 5”, Medium: 13” x 9” x 5”, Large: 15” x 10.5” x 6”

Not keen on shelling out $100 for compression cubes? We get it. That’s why we love these lightweight Bagsmart compression cubes as a great affordable option. Similar to the popular Monos ones, this six-piece set saves suitcase space with five different-size compression packing cubes (the largest able to fit a coat or sweaters) and a dynamic shoe bag with a two-way opening. The shoe bag can be used to separate shoes and socks or even clean and dirty clothes. The expandable cubes also feature a breathable mesh front, ID labels, and portable handles.

The Under-$25 Option

Colors: 6 | Materials: Polyester | Dimensions (per cube): 17.5’’ x 12.75’’ x 3.25’’, 13.75’’ x 9.75’’ x 3’’, 11’’ x 6.75’’ x 3’’, 14’’ x 5’’ x 2.8’’ | Weight: 1.2 pounds

If you’re looking for an option that won’t break the bank and still gets the job done, try these Amazon Basics packing cubes. Similar to other packing-cube sets, this set of four comes with different-size cubes (small, medium, large, and slim), all of which feature a mesh-top panel covering and a convenient handle. And with close to 40,000 reviews, they’re a favorite among most Amazon shoppers and travelers for their price, flexibility, and ultralightweight design.

The Sleek Six-Piece Set

Colors: 5 | Materials: Polyester | Dimensions (per cube): Large: L 13” x W 16” x H 1 - 4.7”, Small: L 6’’ x W 10” x H 4.7”, Smaller: L 8” x W 10” x H 4.7” | Weight: 1.2 pounds

These chic, colorful, and interchangeable compression cubes are the ideal packing accessory for the traveler who loves label organizers as much as Monica Geller does in Friends . (True fans recall the character’s love of label-makers). In addition to two XL packing cubes and four small ones designed to compress and maximize luggage space, this set also comes with paper labels you can slip into the clear exterior of each cube. “These are the perfect organizational tool for every kind of trip,” says Elizabeth Money, senior VP of brand and creative at Béis. “With compression technology, you can pack more into any bag. And thanks to the label windows, you can easily tell what is where, which keeps you organized on the go.”

The One That’s the Most Fun

Colors: 19 | Materials: Polyester | Dimensions (per cube): Envelope: 13” x 10” x 1.5”, Small: 12” x 8.8” x 3”, Medium: 15” x 11” x 3”, Large: 17” x 12” x 3” |  Weight: 1.8 pounds

Add a little pizzazz to your packing with these colorful and brightly patterned packing cubes from Calpak. This set features four cubes, ranging in different sizes, and includes one water-resistant envelope pouch — a great addition for those items that need extra protection. Like the Béis set above, these durable cubes also come with paper organization labels.

Another Fun Option

Colors : 12 | Materials : Recycled ripstop polyester | Dimensions (per cube) : Large: 10” x 13” x 4”, Small: 6 ½” x 10” x 4”

If you weren’t able to get your hands on the limited-edition Baggu x Collina Strada horse bag , you can still add some style to your suitcase with these fun and funky packing cubes from the popular bag brand. Keep all your things together with this roomy two-cube set that comes in a variety of designs, from a sweet strawberries-and-cream Hello Kitty pattern to bright summertime oranges to the stylish Snoopy. And while this particular packing set features one small and large cube, you can also purchase the brand’s larger set , which features a medium-size cube and an extra-large cube made for your check-in luggage.

What’s the difference between packing cubes and compression cubes?

At the end of the day, both packing and compression cubes help organize your suitcase. But the biggest difference is that “packing cubes are great for organization and keeping items separate, while compression cubes are ideal for maximizing space and reducing bulkiness,” says Sanz. “Compression cubes are designed to release air, therefore ‘compressing’ your items down into a smaller form. Those are for the traveler who really needs to make the most out of their space. Packing cubes help keep your trip very organized by allowing the user to compartmentalize they’re packing as they see fit, whether that’s for certain types of clothes or even specific occasions.”

How should I decide which style cube to use?

“When deciding between packing cubes and compression cubes, consider your packing style and the types of items you plan to bring,” says Auricchio. If you’re a Virgo who likes neatly folded clothes and preplanned outfits, try packing cubes. If you’re a serial overpacker who has a ten-step skin-care routine (hi, same!), try compression cubes.

“Away offers options for packing cubes and compression cubes,” Auricchio adds. “ Insider Packing Cubes come in a set of four or six to organize your entire suitcase, while the Outdoor Organizational Cubes come in a range of sizes and offer a compression zipper to pack more in. Both options are extremely lightweight.”

How do I make the most out of my packing cubes?

“Packing cubes are a great tool to stay organized throughout your journey, but they’re most effective when used thoughtfully — you don’t want to just throw a bunch of items in the cubes without thinking of what you’ll be wearing,” Sanz says. “Taking time before you start packing to plan your outfits will make a big difference in staying neat on the trip.” Auricchio encourages travelers to use different-size cubes to “maximize space.” He also notes that the cubes can be used strategically to group similar items together so it’s easier to pinpoint where certain items are during your trip and unpack when you get home. “I often do not unpack my cubes during travel; they become my mobile drawers so everything stays organized during travel, which makes packing and unpacking super-easy,” he says.

. Our experts

• Victor Sanz, creative director at Tumi
• Luigi Auricchio, VP of design at Away
• Morgan Evans, Cut Shop contributor and former shopping editor at Vanity Fair

The Cut Shop

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Editor’s Picks

LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes Make Traveling Easier

This high-end compression cube set makes packing a cinch

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes

 Tripsavvy/Tierney McAfee

Saves space in your suitcase

Keeps items organized

Minimizes wrinkles

Mesh panels allow you to see what’s in each cube

Heavier than some competitors

More expensive than non-compression packing cubes

Have packing cubes, will travel! LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes make the most of suitcase space, so you don’t have to worry about overpacking on your next trip.

• Performance
• Competition
• Final Verdict

We purchased the LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes so our reviewer could thoroughly test them. Keep reading for our full product review.

Some say packing and unpacking is the worst part of a vacation. These convenient cubes will make that process as quick and painless as possible by increasing organization and maximizing luggage capacity. With so many packing cubes on the market , why choose LeanTravel, though? Read on to find out why we think this set is worth the investment. 

Performance: An ace at its job

LeanTravel’s packing cubes come in sets of three or six and arrive packaged neatly in a durable plastic zipper bag that can also be used to stow accessories like shoes or dirty laundry. Each three-piece set includes two large cubes which measure 15.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches and one medium cube which measures 11 x 11 x 4 inches. For those packing for two or looking to fill a bigger checked bag, the six-piece set includes two large cubes, two medium cubes, and two small cubes which measure 11 x 7.5 x 4 inches.

In the medium cube, we fit a pajama set, two bras, two swimsuits, three pairs of shorts, and a week’s supply of underwear—with room to spare.

Having never used packing cubes before, we tested out the three-piece set and were impressed by just how well the compression feature worked. We were able to fit six pairs of women’s pants in one of the larger cubes, and two women’s sweaters, five tee shirts, and one denim jacket in the other. In the medium cube, we fit a pajama set, two bras, two swimsuits, three pairs of shorts, and a week’s supply of underwear—with room to spare. 

Each cube features a second zipper which compresses the cube’s thickness from 4 inches down to one. However, if you fill the cubes to the brim (as we did), don’t expect to see them magically reduced to one inch in height. For us, it was closer to 2 inches, but we were still happy to see the cube’s height shrink by half. 

All three cubes fit comfortably in our go-to, 22-inch carry-on —the standard carry-on size limit for most airlines in the U.S. We were disappointed to find that the pieces did not fit side-by-side in the suitcase, though, forcing us to stack the two large cubes on top of each other with the medium cube resting next to them on its side. 

Had we not used the compression set, we still could have fit all of the aforementioned items in our carry-on, but the packing cubes freed up our suitcase’s organizational pockets and also provided space for a full-size pillow, shoes, and other accessories.

The convenience of the cubes carried over to our travel destination, too, where we saved valuable vacation time by simply moving the cubes from the suitcase to the dresser drawer in our hotel room. 

Unexpected bonus: As a somewhat disorganized clotheshorse whose idea of packing is shoving half the items in our closet into a suitcase and hoping for the best, we found that the cubes helped us be more practical with what we brought. 

Material: Worthy of the slightly higher price tag 

LeanTravel packing cubes are made of durable, high-quality polyester and their sturdy construction makes them worthy of their slightly higher price tag. Even when we pushed the cubes to their limit by squeezing in as many items of clothing as possible, the reinforced walls still kept their shape and the compression feature remained effective. The cubes’ SBS brand zippers are made with anti-catch technology and did not snag or rip any of our clothing. 

Design: (Relatively) stylish

These packing cubes are pretty stylish compared to others out there. They come in a variety of colors including black, gray, brown, and green cactus print. The mesh top minimizes odors and adds visibility, so you can easily access your clothing. The breathability also minimizes wrinkles. After hours of travel, we found that our clothing remained uncreased. 

These packing cubes are pretty stylish compared to others out there.

Price: More expensive than your average packing cube, but worth it

Though some competitor packing cubes, like AmazonBasics or Mossio , retail at half the price or offer more cubes for a lower price, we believe you will get more bang for your buck with LeanTravel. The cubes’ space-saving compression feature and wrinkle-free design are definitely worth the few extra dollars.

LeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes vs. Eagle Creek Pack-it Specter Compression Cube Set

LeanTravel gives most other compression packing cubes a run for their money, checking all the boxes in terms of style, function, affordability, and durability. One of its toughest competitors is the Eagle Creek Pack-it Specter Compression Cube Set, which is sold in sets of two and three (both for roughly $40). 

Eagle Creek cubes are a customer and critic favorite and are valued for being incredibly lightweight compared to other cubes, including LeanTravel’s. Eagle Creek’s three-piece set (with a small, medium, and large cube) weighs just .96 ounces, while LeanTravels three-piece set comes in at 1.3 lbs. Another plus for Eagle Creek cubes is that they’re machine washable, while LeanTravel cubes must be washed by hand. Eagle Creek cubes are also water-repellent to protect against toiletry spills, but this means they don’t feature a mesh panel for breathability, visibility, or wrinkle reduction. We’re inclined to say the latter features tip the scales in favor of LeanTravel since you likely won’t have to wash them much. 

Read more reviews of the best packing cubes available.

Thirty dollars is a small price to pay for an item that will instantly make travel easier. Invest in a few cubes and you’ll free up precious suitcase space every time.

• Product Name Compression Packing Cubes
• Product Brand LeanTravel
• Price $29.99
• Weight 1.3 lbs.
• Color Black, gray, cactus print, mixed set
• Dimensions 15.5 x 11.5 x 4 in. (large cubes), 11 x 11 x 4 in. (medium cube)
• Material Polyester
• Cleaning Hand washable

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• Packing Cubes

11 Best Packing Cubes for Travel in 2024

Our writers and editors look for the best gear available. We test, research and review the best products in different categories with a focus on quality, durability and the overall value for the price.

There are a lot of unnecessary accessories, add-ons, and gimmicks geared towards travelers. Some claim to save space, while others claim to increase comfort or ease of travel. But packing cubes for travel are accompaniments that are actually essential for frequent travelers.

Once we started packing with them, we never stopped. If you travel frequently, you know that space in your suitcase is valuable . A lack of space can result in extra baggage fees or you leaving behind items you wish you had.

The Top 8 Packing Cubes in 2024

All the packing cubes we've tested.

Sort by your needs:

Tripped Compression Packing Cubes

Where to buy:

Where to buy tripped compression packing cubes:.

The Tripped Compression Packing Cube Set is a six-piece set that fits a week of clothing into one carry-on . It comes with four double-zipper compression cubes, two large and two small. These cubes do a great job compressing your belongings, although there are occasional zipper snags.

The set has water and ripstop polyurethane fabric that is water-resistant and lightweight . It also comes with a laundry bag that compresses. The laundry bag, while small, does a great job compressing dirty clothes and keeping bad odors away from clean clothes.

At less than $50, this set is perfect for those who take frequent trips of a week or shorter . It keeps your items organized and frees up space, so you have extra room when you need it instead of paying to check a bag.

• Weight: 4.2 ounces
• Large Cube Dimensions: Compressed:14” x 10” x 1” Expanded: 14” x 10” x 4”
• Small Cube Dimensions: Compressed: 10” 7” x 1” Expanded: 10” x 7” x 4”
• Tube Cube Dimensions: 12.5” x 4.5” x 3”
• Laundry Bag Dimensions: 21” x 11.5” x 0.1”
• Materials: Ripstop Polyurethane fabric

Our Overall Review

Things we like:, things we don't like:.

REI - Medium

REI - Small

Peak Design Packing Cubes

Where to buy Peak Design Packing Cubes:

We have tested numerous Peak Design products , from backpacks to wash bags, and have always been impressed with their smart design and premium quality . So of course, we had to review their packing cubes.

These Peak Design Packing Cubes have a tubular shape with compressible mesh. The small is 9L and the medium 18L, and can shrink the contents you want to pack down to half the volume .

No matter if you’re a frequent flyer or globetrotting backpacker, you want to save on space and need gear you know you can depend on. However, that comes at a price, and an accessory like packing cubes is perhaps where you’ll choose to pinch the pennies. These Peak Design Packing Cubes are the most expensive in our guide , dive into our full review to see if they’re worth it.

• Materials: 100% Recycled 70D Nylon/Polyester Blend, PU and DWR Coating, YKK Zippers, UHMWPE Thread
• Small: 12.6” x 6.7” x 3’1”, 4.5L Compressed Capacity, 9L Expanded Capacity, 3.99 oz.
• Medium: 12.6” x 12.6” x 3.1”, 8L Compressed Capacity, 18L Expanded Capacity, 5.1 oz.
• Colors: Black, Sage, Raw

SeaToSummit

Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cubes

Where to buy Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cubes:

In a perfect world, packing for your next trip would be as easy as throwing everything in a duffel bag and forgetting about it. Staying organized is difficult in the best of circumstances, and this gets considerably more complicated if you’re rooting around in the dark through your backpack, or trying to hunt down a toothbrush after the inevitable bag explosions of extended travel.

Packing cubes are nothing new, but these models from Sea to Summit borrow from their drybag series. Their water resistant capabilities help protect your travel essentials from liquids (obviously) but also from dirt, dust, and the other fun substances of travel outdoors or otherwise. We put the Hydraulic Packing Cubes to the test with a few flights and romps around the outdoors, stick with us while we dive into our first impressions and beyond.

• Materials: Ripstop Nylon
• Dimensions: 10.4 x 5.5 x 3.9” (M), 8.3 x 4.3 x 2.8” (S), 5.7 x 3.7 x 2.4” (XS)
• Number of Cubes: 3
• Weight: 4.4 oz (combined)

Osprey Ultralight Packing Cubes

Where to buy Osprey Ultralight Packing Cubes:

Osprey is one of the biggest names when it comes to backpacks and travel gear. We have reviewed many of their products, and rarely do they disappoint. So it’s probably no surprise we were fans of their Ultralight Packing Cubes.

Osprey’s products are generally designed for hikers and long term travelers who want to save space and weight at every opportunity. If this sounds like you, these Ultralight Packing Cubes are a great addition to your next adventure!

These Ultralight Packing Cubes are made from ripstop nylon, which is flexible, durable, and weather resistant . Coming in 3 different colors and sizes, they can help you separate all your belongings and organize your backpack. All without sacrificing any weight or space. Music to all adventurers’ ears!

• Material: 40-denier nylon ripstop
• Dimensions: small (7.5 x 5 x 2 in.), medium (10 x 7 x 2 in.), large (14 x 10 x 2 in.)
• Weight: 2.53 ounces for all 3 cubes
• Volume: Small-1L, Medium-2L and Large-5L
• Colors: Venturi blue, Lunar grey, and Shadow grey

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cubes

Where to buy Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cubes:

The Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set offers a three-pack of highly durable packing cubes in smaller sizes. This set comes in extra small, small, and medium sizes for those smaller items or categories of items in your luggage.

What is great about these packing cubes is their materials and hardware . The poly mesh is durable and washable. The self-repairing zippers are also great under pressure. Best of all, these packing cubes come with Eagle Creek’s fantastic “No Matter What Warranty.”  

These packing cubes, at $36 for this small three-pack, are a bit expensive, and there are much cheaper packing cubes out there. They also are not great at compressing items. So if you are looking for packing cubes to save space in your luggage, look elsewhere. But if you like to organize your suitcase and appreciate long-lasting products, these are a solid option .

• Volume: 1.7 L (XS), 7 L (S), 14.5 L (M)
• Weight: 1.4 oz (XS), 2.1 oz (S), 3.2 oz (M)
• Extra Small Dimensions: 4.5” x 7.5” x 2.5”
• Small Dimensions: 7.25” x 10” x 3.25”
• Medium Dimensions: 10” x 14.25” x 3.25”
• Materials: 100% Recycled 300D Poly and 100% Recycled Double Diamond Poly Mesh
• Warranty: Covered by Eagle Creek’s “No Matter What” Warranty

Backcountry

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Tech Cube Set

Where to buy Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Tech Cube Set:

Packing cubes have become popular travel accessories lately. By keeping your luggage organized all the time, they help save yourself the hassle of having to rummage through it as you look for your stuff.

By design, packing cubes maximize the capacity of any suitcase. They can compress your soft travel items and help organize all your belongings. They make packing quick and efficient.

They are useful for backpacking, camping and for weekend trips as well as longer stays where the cubes can be useful for other things like laundry.

If you are new in this product category, you can start with the Eagle Creek PACK-IT SPECTER TECH CUBE SET S/M/L. It is a three-cube set that lets you organize your travel bag effortlessly. Let’s dive in to find out if it is worth the purchase!

• Capacity: 5 L (Small), 12 L (Medium), 23 L (Large)
• Dimensions: 6.75” x 9.75” x 3.25” (Small), 10” x 13.5” x 3.25” (Medium), 13.5” x 18” x 3.25” (Large)
• Weight: 1.3 oz (Small), 1.8 oz (Medium), 2.4 oz (Large)
• Material: 30D Ripstop Nylon

AmazonBasics Packing Cube Set

Where to buy AmazonBasics Packing Cube Set:

Selling over 1,500 products on the world’s largest marketplace, Amazon Basics is becoming a household name.  They produce a range of simple travel gear and accessories, including these Amazon Basics Packing Cubes.

Not as flashy or finely finished as some more premium brands, these Amazon Basics Packing Cubes are a cost-effective travel solution . You won’t get extra features like a compression mesh or rip resistance ripstop, but perhaps you don’t need that.

These affordable travel organizers come in various sizes and colors , so you and your family can streamline and elevate their packing experience.

• Material: Polyester
• Number of cubes: 4
• Dimensions: Set includes 1 large (17.5 x 12.75 x 3.25 inches), medium (13.75 x 9.75 x 3 inches), small (11 x 6.75 x 3 inches), and slim (14 x 5 x 2.8 inches)
• Weight: 0.85 lbs. (all four)
• Colors: Black, Blue, Sky Blue, Green, Gray, Red

Bagail Packing Cube Set

Where to buy Bagail Packing Cube Set:

This 8-piece packing cube set from Bagail is a collection of packing cubes geared toward the budget-minded traveler who seeks additional luggage organization. The set includes three different-sized packing cubes that feature a mesh wall so you can see inside. The two larger cubes even have straps and buckles to secure your belongings .

The set includes additional pieces that come in handy when packing, like an underwear bag, shoe bag, and laundry bag. The nylon material is a bit bulky, but it is certainly durable and water-resistant. The packing cubes feature dual zippers, making it easier to zip and unzip each cube.

These cubes are a good option for those who take occasional trips and are seeking additional organization with large and small pieces of luggage. At just $25 for a set of 8, this Bagail packing cube collection is a fantastic value for those who just need some compartmentalization.

• Total Number Of Pieces: 8 Piece Set
• Colors: 15 Color Options (Light Blue Pictured Throughout)
• Zippers: Double Zipper Design
• Materials: Upgraded water-resistant nylon
• Dimensions: Small Cube: 11.8”x8.6”x4.7” Medium Cube: 12.9”x11.4”x 4.7” Large Cube: 15.7”x11.8”x 4.7” Laundry Bag: 13.7”x10.6” Underwear Bag: 11.8”x8.x6”x4.7” Shoe Bag: 11.4”x 7.8”x 4.7” Sock Bag: 9.8”x6.2” Cosmetic Bag: 8.6”x6.6”x3.1”

Ziploc Freezer Bags

Where to buy Ziploc Freezer Bags:

Need something quick to keep your toiletries from leaking in your luggage ? Do you like to keep your used undies and socks away from the other things you’ve packed? Or maybe you know you will have a wet bathing suit that won’t have time to dry between your destinations. It’s super easy to grab a Ziploc Freezer Bag for a quick packing cube solution.

While you probably have them at hand and they do the trick at keeping moisture and odors at bay , you do have to keep in mind disposable plastic is not ideal to use on a regular basis. And there are limitations to capacity and durability.

But all in all you can’t ignore this multipurpose tool you probably have in your house as also a solid packing cube option.

• Volume: 1 Gallon
• Dimensions: 12.2 inches H x 15.7 inces W
• Zippers: 2 Grip n’ Seal Plastic ziplocs
• Materials: Plastic

REI Expandable

Where to buy REI Expandable:

Updated in 2023, REI’s expandable packing cubes have a nice mix of compression-capable options with decent water resistance at a slightly lower price than bigger brands.

With Bluesign approval, there’s the added benefit of a more sustainable product too. The set with 3 different sizes is practical for weekend trips, using a backpack on an excursion or for camping for example.

• Material: Ripstop Nylon
• Number of cubes: 3
• Dimensions: Small: 7.75’’x6’’x6.25’’ & medium: 11.75’’x’’7.75’’x6.25’’ & large: 14’’x10’’x6.25’’
• Weight: 9.9 ounces

Travel Dude Compression Cubes

Where to buy Travel Dude Compression Cubes:

If you’re still puzzled about which compression packing cubes to get, you might want to see this 4-piece set from Travel Dude.

It’s a budget-friendly option crafted from plastic bottles. Meaning you get a few compression packing cubes and help reduce waste.

It is an exciting set that anyone short on budget needs to check out. If you’re an eco-warrior traveler, these might tick all your boxes.

Can it keep up with rugged use? Or the cheap price translates to cheap build?

Let’s take a closer look at Travel Dude compression packing cubes and find out.

• Material: Recycled plastic bottles
• Small: 11.02” x 5.51” x 3.94, 2.86 ounces
• Medium: 11.02” x 7.07” x 3.94”, 2.89 ounces
• Large with Waterproof Compartment: 13.78” x 11.02” x 3.94”, 7.05 ounces
• Laundry Bag: 13.39” x 20.47”, 1.59 ounces
• Colors: Multicolor, Wine Red

Related Reviews

Read full review

Packing Cube Buyer’s Guide

Our travel writers travel for fun, travel for work, or just simply live all over the place. Together our team has been to every continent and to around 100 countries. We’ve packed it all, and packed up every kind of bag for tiny planes, regular cattle class, boats, and bikes.

We all use some kind of packing cube, w hether we need some heavy duty compression, reliable waterproofing, or just organization . We chose the packing cubes in this guide based on what we have used and what we would buy. Plus we reviewed some fo the most popular to check if they are worth it.

Why We Say Packing Cubes Are Essential For Frequent Travel

There are a few major reasons why packing cubes are so incredible for those who travel, but they can be boiled down to two main points: organization and compression .

Compression packing cubes sometimes leave upwards of one-third of your suitcase empty , whereas without them, it would be full. This is major, especially for those who prefer to travel without checking a bag.

The other main draw to packing cubes is organization. As a frequent traveler, I rarely spend an entire trip in just one hotel or vacation rental. So there is a lot of packing and unpacking . This can get tiresome, and you can quickly become completely disorganized – unable to find something as simple as your toothbrush without completely tearing apart your luggage.

Packing cubes make it so easy to compartmentalize everything . Your undergarments, pants, toiletries, electronics, and everything else can have their own container. This makes it easy to keep your life in order when you are bouncing from place to place.

Does It Matter What Packing Cubes You Get?

Now that you understand why packing cubes are so important, you are probably wondering what type you should buy or if it even matters what type you should get. The short answer is – of course, it matters. But the longer answer is the best packing cubes for you depends on what kind of traveler and packer you are .

How Do You Choose The Right Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a real game-changer when it comes to packing for a trip, as well as helping to stay organized throughout the duration of your travels. With so many options out there, it is important you don’t just choose a set at random or choose the cheapest set.

Instead, you must do some thinking and research using specific criteria to ensure you choose the perfect packing cubes for you.

Most importantly, you need to set expectations for what you want to get out of your packing cubes . Decide if

• space saving
• Organization
• high-quality materials
• or environmental impact is most important .

You also need to establish a budget . Packing cubes can range from just a few dollars each to more than $100 for a small set . Understanding your budget and what you want for your money is critical. To gain a better understanding of what to look for in a packing cube set, we have broken down all their critical aspects so you know what you should look out for when shopping for the best packing cubes.

Size and Quantity of Packing Cubes

Packing cubes do not come in any set quantity or size . They can come individually or in sets as large as 10 unique pieces – or more. Therefore you must know approximately how many packing cubes you will need, as well as the sizes you require.

If you are looking to significantly cut down on the amount of space clothes take up in your luggage , you will need a minimum of four compression packing cubes and upwards of eight for longer trips .

When it comes to size, that is a matter of personal preference and needs, but it is usually nice to have a variety of sizes . You should have a minimum of two large cubes for bulky clothes and pants. Small and medium compression packing cubes are ideal for things like t-shirts, underwear, and socks, as they compress all these items as well as keep them separated and organized. A laundry bag that compresses is always a plus as well.

Compression And Packability

The biggest decision you need to make when you are choosing packing cubes is whether you want organizing packing cubes, or compression packing cubes . It is possible to have packing cubes that both compress and organize, but you will find in your search that different cubes are usually better at one or the other.

If you need packing cubes primarily to organize your belongings, then choose packing cubes that are easy to pack and easier to organize.

If you opt for compression packing cubes make sure that these packing cubes compress your belongings. Compression packing cubes also tend to endure more wear and tear, so make sure you opt for quality.

The Material Your Packing Cubes Are Made Of

The material your packing cubes are made of can make quite a bit of difference when it comes to their performance and capabilities. Therefore material selection is worth your consideration. Packing cubes are made of various materials that have different pros and cons . Below are four factors to consider when selecting the right packing cube material type for you.

1. Transparency

Some packing cubes are transparent , and made of clear or mesh materials . These materials have the benefit of allowing you to see exactly what you packed in each cube, which is helpful.

Keep in mind mesh is not at all water resistant , and does not offer an odor barrier. Clear plastic is waterproof but is not breathable or as pliable as other materials. Other fabrics have more give and are great for compression, but they are not transparent.

2. Durability

Perhaps the most important factor to consider when selecting the right material for your packing cubes is its durability. This is particularly important if you travel often and want your packing cubes to last for many journeys .

Many budget packing cubes might look great fresh out of the packaging but use cheaper materials and are not as meticulously sewn.

3. Waterproof Packing Cubes

For some, water resistance is not much of a concern, but others may find it to be a top priority. Packing cubes come in many different water resistance and water-proof levels .

Remember that if a waterproof packing cube is essential for items like electronics, for example, then opt for proven waterproof materials over self-proclaimed “water resistant” ones .

4. Ethical And Environmental Impact

Lastly, it is worth noting that packing cube companies use materials that have varying degrees of impact on the environment. With climate change being an all-to-real problem, it is always a good idea to look into the company you are buying the packing cubes from and whether or not they use recycled and up-cycled materials.

The good news is many companies do use recycled materials and environmentally friendly practices, but not all do .

Zipper Strength And Design

In addition to the packing cube’s materials, another aspect worth taking a closer look at before purchasing is the zipper and the zipper design. Some zippers are better than others . In fact, in most instances, it is a poorly made zipper that often renders packing cubes useless and sends them to the trash sooner than necessary .

Read packing cube reviews to find products with well-made zippers. The angle and design of the zipper also matter. Some companies use intuitive zipper designs that make it easy to pack your belongings without them spilling out and even easier to zip and unzip them. This might seem like a small detail, but it can make all the difference when you are packing in a rush .

Color, Design, And Weight Of Packing Cubes

Other factors worth considering with packing cubes are the colors, design, and weight of the cubes. These all matter for slightly different reasons, which are listed below.

Packing Cube Color

On one hand, the color of your packing cube colors is a matter of preference. But it can also be used to further enhance organization .

It can be quite helpful to have various colored packing cubes. This allows you to “color code” your products . You can use color coding to designate certain garments or even to have different colors for different days of the week or special occasions.

Packing Cube Weight

Packing cubes generally don’t weigh too much, but if you purchase a set of 10 cubes, this can add up . Since airlines have strict baggage weight policies, you want to keep the weight of your packing cubes down to a minimum, The key is to find a perfect balance of lightweight and durable . Make sure you look at the total weight of the cubes when looking at the product details.

Design Of Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are designed in all sorts of ways. Some are made to be universal, while others are quite specific. If you buy packing cubes for the first time, opt for easy-to-use, stackable, and multi-purpose packing cubes .

It is best to wait for specific packing cube designs until you find yourself needing them. Packing cubes that stack well and easily fit into most luggage are always a winner .

Packing Cube Washability

Packing cubes, like everything you travel with, get dirty over time. If you are looking for packing cubes that are built to last, then make sure they are easy to clean . You might be surprised to learn that some packing cubes are challenging to clean.

Ideally, they will also be quick-drying , so you can wash them and not have to wait long at all before using them again. After all, you can’t always control when your packing cubes get dirty and need to be washed.

Special Features That Make Traveling Easier

The last physical features you should ponder when looking for the perfect packing cubes to buy are all the various special features many packing cubes have. Some features that can be particularly helpful and desirable are listed below.

• Carrying Handles: Carrying handles are great for transporting your packing cubes out of your luggage and vice versa.
• Attached Hangers: Most hotels and vacation rentals feature a closet but have limited space. Packing cubes that unfurl and can hang in a closet save space not only in your luggage but also in your hotel room.
• Interior Pockets And Organization: Additional organization options are always a good thing. Purchasing a few packing cubes that have interior pockets or compartments can further separate and organize belongings you take with you on vacation.
• Specialized Cubes: You might find yourself needing a cube designed for a special purpose. Some examples include compression laundry bags or a packing cube for shoes.
• Customizable Packing Cubes: Some packing cubes can morph into various shapes and sizes. This is something to consider if you aren’t sure what you will use packing cubes for or if your needs and packing requirements are constantly changing.

Packing Cube Price and Warranty

In the end, the exact packing cubes you purchase will come down to the price of the cubes you want , and your budget for this purchase. You can spend anything from a few cents on a packing vessel (Ziploc Bags) to over $100 for a set of top-quality packing cubes. The amount you spend depends on your budget, but there are some things to know before spending money on packing cubes.

First, you get what you pay for . There are some very cheap packing cubes out there, but this often means poor craftsmanship and sub-par materials. If you are looking for longevity, do your research and consider spending a few extra dollars on well-made packing cubes that will last. Keep in mind that there are excellent packing cube sets for less than $50 , so you also don’t need to break the bank on this purchase.

You should also look into packing cubes that have a solid warranty . If your packing cubes are protected against manufacturing defects , like faulty design and zippers, then you don’t have to be as worried about premature damage.

Frequently asked questions about Packing Cubes

The best packing cubes are those that can organize your belongings and also reduce the amount of space they take up. The material should be ultra-light so as not to add unnecessary weight to your luggage, with quality zippers and environmentally-friendly materials.

Some packing cubes are great at saving space in your luggage, while others are designed more to protect and organize your belongings in a suitcase. If you want to save space, purchase high-quality compression packing cubes.

Rolling your clothing is the most efficient method of packing. It reduces the amount of space your clothing takes up in a suitcase and also makes it easier to find a place to place it in your luggage.

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They all seem to offer excellent organization and durability for travel. If you’re considering additional options, I’ve had positive experiences with Terra Quest Adventure packing cubes as well. They provide similar benefits and are highly versatile. Thanks for the thorough review!

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Gallery of packing cubes review.

The front of the Small Peak Design packing cube has two pull tabs

The Hydraulic squad working to help us stay organized.

One large and two medium packing cubes inside a suitcase

3 different sizes of the REI Expandable packing cubes

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These $17 Amazon compression bags will save you so much space in your suitcase

As a travel writer, I should have packing down to a science — or at least a fine art. However, even with all my best tricks and the help of this handy 4-in-1 toiletries container , I still struggle to fit everything I need into my suitcase.

Fortunately, I own some of the best expert-recommended luggage . It puts up with my abuse. My poor carry-on has survived three years of me sitting on it and fighting the zipper to force it closed. But I'm tired of starting every trip out with my bags bursting at the seams. So, recently I decided to try these bestselling roll-up space savers that I found on Amazon. Here's why I think they're worth the hype.

shop We couldn't resist sharing these home hacks — and they're all under $20

Hibag travel compression bags.

Travel Compression Bags (Set of 12)

12 bags for $17.

I'm too cheap to pay a baggage fee, so the idea of paying $17 for a few plastic bags was a hard pill to swallow at first. I like that these Hibag Travel Compression Bags — which have over 3,600 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers — come with 12 storage bags. That's less than $1.25 per bag. I also like that they come in two sizes, medium and large. I mostly use the larger ones because it only takes two of them to pack all I need for a week in my carry-on. But even the medium size can up to five days' worth of clothes. I don't need all 12 bags, but I think that number is great for families or big groups trying to save space.

Do these compression bags work?

Initially, I was worried that these bags wouldn't work that well since they don't require a vacuum. My vacuum seal bags, which I use at home for larger items like blankets and puffy coats , work great. But that's because my powerful Hoover can suck out all the air in a matter of seconds.

Getting the air out of these compression bags is a little trickier. First, I fill the bag with my clothes . Some people roll their clothes to save more space, but I prefer to lay mine out in a pile like you'd see in a shop. Next, I zip it shut, making a few passes with the zipper to make sure there are no openings. Remember: Air is the enemy. Thankfully, the bags have a double-zipper design and come with stay-on clips that keep the zipper securely shut.

shop 34 must-have Amazon travel essentials for your next trip — starting at $9

Finally, I roll the zipped-up bag to remove the air. This step requires some manpower and sometimes a bit of maneuvering. It takes a lot of effort if you just use your forearms to roll the bag. Since I don't have that much strength, I put my entire weight onto it. It may look silly, but it's an effective way to push the air out. In just a few seconds, the bag is much flatter and easier to roll.

It's easy to follow the instructions since they're conveniently printed directly onto the bag. I think the biggest mistake people make is trying to load them past the fill line. It's better to use two 2/3-full bags than one overstuffed bag. The latter will be too hard to roll, and you'll end up trapping the air inside.

I have so much more packing room

The Hibag compression bags claim to save up to 80 percent of space. While I haven't achieved that result (yet), I've definitely noticed that my carry-on storage space has grown. I'm only using half the space that I'm accustomed to cramming clothing and essentials into. These problem solvers have practically taken 100 percent of the pain out of packing.

When it comes to travel, these compression bags are a no-brainer for easy packing. However, Amazon has a huge selection of affordable storage options you can shop to make preparing for you next trip even more effortless.

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So, if you like the challenge of starting each trip with a packing puzzle, stay away from these compression bags. They'll make it too easy. But if you're like me, tired of having to sit on your suitcase to close it and always worried about not having room to bring home souvenirs, these space-saving bags are a life saver.

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Home » Gear » EPIC Nomatic Travel Pack Review – Tried and Tested in 2024

EPIC Nomatic Travel Pack Review – Tried and Tested in 2024

Nomatic has been releasing innovative, high quality and generally awesome travel products for half a decade now. We have tried and tested quite a few of their packs and now have the absolute pleasure to put the Nomatic Travel Pack through its paces.

In this detailed Nomatic travel pack review we will take a close look at this adaptable day and travel backpack.

We will look at the Nomatic Travel Pack’s features, its performance, the quality and longevity and of course, the price. By the end of this review, you will know whether this is the right backpack for your needs.

Quick Answers – Is The Nomatic Travel Pack Right For You?

Nomatic travel pack: key features and performance breakdown, final thoughts on the nomatic travel pack.

In a hurry? Can’t be bothered to read all of these big long words that I could scarcely be bothered to write?! Well in that case just read our quick summary!

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REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

The Nomatic Travel Pack is PERFECT You If…

You want a 2-in-1 extendable backpack . This pack can be used both as a 20L day or commuter backpack or it can be extended and turned into a 30L overnight/weekend pack.

You want a laptop compartment. The Nomatic travel pack has a 15” laptop compartment located on the inside of the pack. If this is something you value then bingo!

You value organisational options. All of the Nomatic packs really shine when it comes to organisation. Everything has its own place and there are loads of zip and mesh pockets dotted all over the pack. Therefore if you like to travel neat and tidy then this pack may be for you. Fellow OCD heads unite!

The Nomatic Travel Pack is NOT For You If…

You need a big backpack . When extended, the Nomatic Travel Pack offers 30L of storage. That is enough for a weekend break or maybe a week if you are a seriously minimalist light packer.

If this is you then check out either the Nomatic 40L Travel Bag or one of their full-blown suitcase/luggage models like the Nomatic Navigator or the awesome Nomatic Check In .

You are on a tight budget. Coming in at $300 this pack is not cheap. In fact, $300 is actually quite expensive for a 30L backpack. Whilst it may well justify the price tag, it does nevertheless exclude those who are short on funds.

You’re looking for a camera-specific bag. Whilst this bag will fit some photography gear in, the clever folks at Nomatic have designed a bag specifically designed for camera gear in collaboration with Pete Mckinnon that is better suited for keeping your expensive gear safe.

The Nomatic Travel Pack at a Glance

The original and maybe best Nomatic backpack , the Travel Pack is an adaptable backpack that converts from 20 to 30L meaning it can be used either as a day pack or as a small travel pack. It is well made, stylish and has some lovely, innovative features.

Looking for something smaller? Have a look at the Nomatic Messenger Bag , it’s a great stand-alone pack if you want to travel super light or a good addition to this bag if you need extra space for valuables.

• Capacity: 30l when Expanded (20L when not expanded)
• Weight:   4.16 lb (1.9 kg)
• Dimensions: 18.5 in x 12 in x 9.5 in (47 x 30.5 x 24.1 cm) (when extended)
• Price: $300

Word Up Funsters – In case you get to the end of this review and don’t quite think that the Nomatic Travel Pack is for you, then note that Nomatic also offers 2 similar packs; the 40L Nomatic Travel Bag and the 20 – 24L Nomatic Backpack.

We have written a full  Nomatic Travel Bag review as well as a Nomatic Backpack review . On the other hand, if you’re looking for something bigger and more like a suitcase, have a look at the Nomatic Carry On Pro instead.

Let’s now take a detailed look at the main features of the Nomatic Travel Pack.

Aesthetics & Material

The Nomatic brand really does have a strong brand identity and all of their packs fit a certain, in-house style. The Travel Pack like other Nomatic offerings has a simple, classy almost minimal look that helps it to blend in equally well in the airport lounge, the office or the gym. Some critics find the design too ‘boxy’ and austere but that’s all subjective.

The main material is some form of tarpaulin material. It feels kind of rubbery but pleasant to the touch and offers a good level of water resistance which is a real plus.

Storage Capacity

Ok, listen up because this is important. As we said earlier, what makes this pack unique and special is that it is extendable. It’s default setting is 20L but it can be extended to accommodate 30L of glorious travel junk.

The expansion works simply by “zipping down” the pack using a zip located right slap bang in the middle of the pack. And when you have finished using it as 30L, you can simply zip it back up.

In case you don’t know, 20L is generally suitable for day use and 30L suitable for overnight and weekend use.

Size, Weight & Fit

As this pack is extendable, the size of it does change accordingly. At full mast (ie, unzipped to 30L mode) the size is 18.5 in x 12 in x 9.5 in (47 x 30.5 x 24.1 cm) which is kind of standard size for 30L packs. In case you are wondering, it is within the acceptable “carry on” requirements for all but the most miserly of airlines. It easily fits into the overhead compartment and even fits under most airline seats when compressed to its 20L mode.

As for weight, it remains constant no matter which size and capacity mode is being invoked. Weighing in at 4.16 lb (1.9 kg)  it is heavy for a 20L pack and even weighty for a 30L pack. As such this ain’t a pack you want to take hiking or carry up hills on hot afternoons too often.

In terms of carrying, the pack is well fitted to suit an average man’s torso. The shoulder straps are adaptable and there is a harness hip belt which you may wish to use if you fully pack it at 30L. Note that pack also has an adaptable handle meaning that it can be carried like a suitcase too.

Main Compartment 

Where Nomatic packs really shine is in their organisational potential. Nomatic boasts that this pack has a “space for everything” and it’s not a bad assessment.

The main compartment pack opens up in a clamshell style which means you can lay it out flat and pack/unpack it like a suitcase – as opposed to the standard “top access” you get with backpacks. The main compartment has a generous amount of room for putting clothes, shoes or whatever else you can fit in there.

Below the main compartment are two zip mesh pockets which fit small bits and pieces such as chargers.

Then, there are four mesh pockets on the sides of the main compartment which you can pop other little bits and pieces into – the size perfectly accommodates a sunglasses case and by the way, the Nomatic Travel Pack actually comes with a free sunglasses case in case that swings it for you!

Other Compartments

One of the best features of this pack is the laptop compartment.

It is located on the reverse side of the inside side of the pack (the part that rests on your back ). When you zip open the clamshell to access the main compartment, the laptop case will fold down. The compartment opens and closes securely with a zip and comes with enough padding to keep your precious device safe from a few knocks. It will fit laptops up to 15” which is a bummer if you are one of those rare beasts who still uses a 17”.

So what else do we have? Well on the outer side of the pack the flap zips open to reveal 4 more mesh pockets, a bottom pocket, and then some inside pockets on the inside of the flap. I don’t know about you, but you can never have enough pockets in my opinion!

But that’s not it, there is also a small secret zipper pocket situated on the backside of the pack. The pocket is super hard to access but that is the whole point of it – it’s a secret compartment and therefore useful for hiding passports, credit cards and cash!

Quality and Longevity

Nomatic gear is not cheap so buyers have every right to expect high quality and some longevity. 

The main material is tarpaulin which offers a good level of water resistance. It feels quite thick and hard-wearing (which does make the pack on the heavier side of things) but it is definitely not scuff proof and I can foresee the pack taking a few scratches after a few months of use.

The zips and zip lining are zoom zippers which are of a very high quality.

The other Nomatic packs we have owned are in great condition after years of use and we fully expect this one to perform just as well. In fact, Nomatic even offers a pretty strong Lifetime Warranty that guarantees against manufacturer defects. 

Price and Value For Money

The Nomatic Travel Pack is $300. That is quite a lot for a 20L or a 30L pack. 

Still, we do feel that the chunky price tag is justified. The Nomatic brand pride itself on making innovative, high-quality travel gear that offers heaps of awesome features. 

Basically, if you feel you will make use of the pack’s features such as the clamshell opening, the extendability, the laptop compartment and all the little organisation pockets, then you will probably get your money’s worth. 

If you will not make the most of these features then there are more cost-effective alternatives out there for you.

Also, keep in mind that this pack comes with a lifetime guarantee – and $300 is not really bad for a travel bag for life now is it?! I mean, you can’t beat a 10p Tesco bag for life in terms of value but they are somewhat lacking in features compared to the Nomatic!

As we have seen, the Nomatic Travel pack is a unique extensible travel pack. It can be used as a 20L daypack or a 30L overnight or weekend bag . It is made from high-quality materials, has lots of storage options and even comes with a laptop compartment.

It is not a cheap travel pack and it is not ideal for everybody. Still, it has a very unique space in the travel gear-o-sphere and has earned itself a lot of fans… including us.

Looking for some accessories to match you’re new shiny bag? Have a look at the Nomatic wallet that fits perfectly in the secret pocket. Also, check out the Nomatic toiletries bag , it’s one of the best on the market and continues the company’s line of excellent travel products.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Aiden Freeborn

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This Dagne Dover Rolling Carry-On Is My New Go-To Travel Bag

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If ever there was a universal bag to satisfy every traveler—from the hyper-practical business professional to the frequent flyer and spontaneous adventurer— Dagne Dover ’s new Seattle Carry-On makes a strong case (literally) for that designation. The New York brand that brought you the beloved Dakota Backpack and Landon Carryall dropped its first-ever collection of rolling suitcases, dubbed The Luggage Edit , this June—an equally chic mix of colors, durable design, and the packing optimization that’s become synonymous with the brand since its inception in 2013.

“For many years, customers have been asking us for luggage, but ‘Dagnified,’” Melissa Mash, co-founder and CEO of Dagne Dover, says of the impetus behind the new line. The collection is a natural extension of its wheel-free Carry-On Edit —featuring duffles, laptop bags, backpacks, sling bags, and more—which debuted last fall. So, what does “Dagnified” mean, exactly? “Smart organization and a sleek signature aesthetic,” Mash says. To that end, the new 10-piece collection delivers on all fronts. Think: checked rolling luggage (25 inches and 28.5 inches), carry-ons (20.5 inches and 23.5 inches), a duffle , an extra-long garment bag , and packing cubes —all in visually pleasing colorways including Ash, Dark Moss, Warm Dust, and Onyx.

But the real standout, according to Mash, is the Larger Seattle Carry-On. To unpack what the hype is all about, I took the suitcase for a weekend getaway. Here’s my honest review.

Dagne Dover

Seattle Carry-On Luggage

Right out of the box, the suitcase has a “wow” factor—but in a subtle way. The minimalist, all-monochrome look from handles to wheels (in this case, Dark Moss) gives it a clean, modern aesthetic. The attention to detail continues: Even the stitching and hardware come in the same mossy-green hue. As for the overall feel, the bag is relatively lightweight (10 pounds for the larger carry-on) and feels sturdy. The suitcase is soft-sided, but has a firmer structure reminiscent of a hardshell piece, thanks to robust corner protectors and luggage feet on the exterior which help prop up the bag horizontally. The two-level retractable handle extends easily, the zippers glide seamlessly, and the four 360-degree wheels roll just as smoothly on concrete as they do on my Saltillo tile floors. Overall first impressions: It’s good-looking, it’s high-quality, it has lots of pockets, and it makes me want to be my best organized self while packing.

“Most brands lead with aesthetics, but aesthetics don’t solve problems for you or work hard for you,” Mash says. (Though don’t be fooled—style is certainly not an afterthought with any of Dagne Dover’s products.) “Our luggage is thoughtfully designed for the modern traveler so that they can be used exactly how you like to pack.” That sentiment is woven into the suitcase’s flexible organization system, a design that suits both the meticulous packer and the one who tosses everything into their bag moments before they head out the door.

Let’s start with the exterior. The material feels high quality and is eco-friendly to boot; everything is made from 100-percent recycled 900D fabric and Repreve polyester lining. There’s a sizable front pocket for easy access to chargers, your passport, and other grab-and-go necessities. Behind it is another large zippered pocket that houses a padded, air-mesh laptop sleeve with a velcro closure that easily fits my 15-inch MacBook Pro. This can be especially convenient when lugging your suitcase through TSA, since you can remove your laptop without having to open the whole suitcase. Behind the laptop sleeve is a U-shaped zipper, which sneakily grants you access to the full interior (more on that later).

Inside, you’ll find your standard two-sided packing compartments, but with a multifunctional twist. There’s a divider (with mesh pockets for added organization) that you can either use or roll-up with toggles for your packing preference, and compression straps over both main compartments which help maximize storage capacity. It also comes with a fabric shoe bag, which easily fits a size 15 New Balance sneaker. Add in some Dagne Dover packing cubes and you’ll have the most hyper-organized carry-on out there.

My favorite feature of the Seattle Carry-On is the large front pocket, which has a cleverly designed U-shaped zipper behind the laptop sleeve that lets you access the full interior without unzipping the entire suitcase. That becomes especially helpful when you’re grabbing items from the overhead bin mid-flight, be it your laptop, iPad, or otherwise. (Who really wants all of Row 11 checking out your tech gadgets or boxers ?) You could also use that pocket to quickly throw in last-minute items, like any impulse-purchases you made at the airport souvenir shop.

With all the suitcases on the market, the question remains: Is the Seattle Carry-On really worth the investment? Priced at a cool $625, it's certainly not a budget option, but the high-quality materials, functionality, eco-friendly design, and sophisticated yet understated style make it a worthwhile investment. Plus, the 10-year warranty may give you peace of mind as your bag gets jostled by baggage handlers or rolled over cobblestones. The only drawback I found is the lack of an expandable zipper, but with its thoughtful compartments and organizational features, you might not need the extra space anyway. Ultimately, if you’re a frequent traveler who wants a reliable bag that’s as functional as it is stylish, this suitcase delivers. Bottom line? It’s a “yes” from me.

Shop More of Dagne Dover’s New Luggage Edit Collection

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10 Best Carry-On Backpacks to Skip Those Checked Luggage Fees

Avoid annoying extra expenses on your next flight.

No surprise then that carry-on backpacks are surging in popularity. On some national airlines (but please check before heading to the airport), a backpack is considered a personal item, regardless of its size, and can replace traditional luggage. Between an airline-approved carry-on backpack and roller bag, it’s possible to travel without checking luggage at all, especially for trips that don’t require heavy coats or any kind of specialized gear or packing items.

As a travel essential now more than ever, backpacks are available in a variety of styles and prices. The carry-on backpacks included here barely scratch the surface of what’s out there, but they cover the basics. There are backpacks for beach trips, vacationing with kids, international excursions, and adventure travel.

Prices for my recommendations range from $65 to $350. In general, expect to pay more for bags that are heavy on features or made with higher quality and more durable fabrics. Budget options may not last as long as higher-end bags when it comes to stitching or wear and tear, and likely won’t have much of a warranty policy or repair program.

Best Carry-On Backpacks

• Best Overall: Peak Design Travel Backpack
• Best Budget: Bange Expandable Travel Backpack
• Best for Beach Trips: Gregory Border 40
• Best for Travel with Kids: No Reception Club The Getaway Bag
• Most Sustainable: Nemo Vantage 30L

I’m a freelance travel journalist who has traveled around the world for the last decade for work. I’ve tested lots of luggage and backpacks both as carry-on bags, and for uses like hiking and road tripping.

According to my MileagePlus account, I took 44 separate flights in 2023—and that’s only the ones on United Airlines. I’ve been delayed for days on end, slept on airport floors, used airport lounges, and everything in-between. I’m also very specific about my airplane travel routine and will quickly notice if a backpack doesn’t offer the space, pockets, and useful features I’ve come to rely on over a decade of heavy travel.

What to Consider in a Carry-On Backpack

Today’s carry-on backpacks are high-tech and well suited for travel. Loaded with features, some of these bags even have explainer videos that brands are including on their websites just to walk would-be buyers through all the benefits. What matters most to you might be padded straps, waterproof material, or interior zippered pockets. For instance, I avoid backpacks that don’t fit my wide water bottle in the side pocket. Read on for what to consider when shopping for a carry-on backpack.

For Your Next Trip: 35 Travel Essentials • Best Packing Cubes • 44 Long-Flight Essentials • Best Travel Pillows

Size and Airline Regulations

Ensure the backpack adheres to the carry-on size restrictions of your chosen airline. In the United States, most airlines allow a carry-on backpack, but size and weight vary. Typically, the size limit for carry-on luggage, which includes the handle and wheels, is 22- x 14- x 9 inches.

When choosing a carry-on backpack, are you planning to slide it under the seat (using it as a personal item) or store it in the overhead compartment as a carry-on bag? U.S. airlines say that your personal item should be smaller than your carry-on. American sets a limit of 18- x 14- x 8 inches, while United says it should be 9- x 10- x 17 inches.

However, I’ve been flying frequently for years and have never seen a major U.S. airline refuse a personal item larger than that, as long as it fits under the seat in front of you. They also don’t have weight limits for carry-on bags, though you should be able to lift overhead bag bins without assistance. If you’re not in compliance, you will end up with a checked bag and fees. Carry-on bag weight restrictions for non-U.S. airlines are far more common, and in my experience, most other countries tend to enforce size and weight limits more strictly. Be aware that the weight limits can be low. For example, Swiss Airlines limits weight for hand luggage (a personal item) to 17 pounds, while carry-on bags are limited to 50 pounds. Turkish Airlines is more restrictive with a carry-on weight limit of 17 pounds, and a personal item weight limit of 8.8 pounds. So, consider when and where you plan to fly before purchasing an overly large bag.

Weight and Comfort

Every ounce counts, especially on trips with multiple layovers where you might be carrying a backpack on long walks through airport terminals. A lightweight, high-quality material like ripstop nylon minimizes the backpack's empty weight, leaving more room for essentials.

Durability is equally important, and you’ll want a bag with fabrics that won’t rip if snagged on something in transit. Water-resistant materials will help to protect your electronics and valuables, while padded shoulder and hip straps go a long way in preventing muscle fatigue and strain.

Compartments and Organization

A well-organized backpack is a traveler's best friend, but too many zippers and features can add weight and create wasted space. If the goal is to avoid checking a bag, look for a backpack with one (or two, if it opens clamshell-style) large central compartment(s) so there’s plenty of space for clothing or packing cubes. A few small inner pockets are handy for items like cords or sunglasses, and a side water bottle pocket can save you from needing to open your bag each time you get thirsty.

I always pick bags with a laptop compartment, and I’ve recently found stash pockets (also called hidden pockets) useful for important items like my phone or passport. The other feature I’ve noticed recently on bags is a side access pocket that I can get to with my backpack on one shoulder. It means I can reach whatever I need to by spinning the backpack in front, rather than fully removing it.

Your carry-on backpack’s looks may be an important factor to you as well. If you’re traveling for work, you may want a bag with a more refined, subtle look. For a European trip, you might want something discreet, that doesn’t scream “American backpacker,” with too many bright colors and lots of external clips.

How We Selected Carry-On Backpacks

With so many options, I narrowed the specs to make my final recommendations. I limited picks to carry-on backpacks that eliminated the need to check luggage because they offer enough space for clothing, accessories, and other essentials rather than just the items needed immediately on a plane.

Aside from luggage space, all the bags selected have dedicated laptop pockets, extra storage space for clothing/luggage (in addition to in-flight items), some degree of water-resistance and durable fabrics, and high reviews and/or are personally tested.

I also considered online reviews, warranty and repair programs, price, and brand reputation. Finally, I looked at novelty, taking into account anything from features not seen before, to proprietary technology, to recycled and sustainable fabrics, and a company's production techniques.

Peak Design Travel Backpack

It’s hard to find fault with the Peak Design Travel Backpack, a bag that ticks all the feature boxes I want in a carry-on backpack. It’s expandable (from 35 to 45 liters), has double side pockets as well as multiple hidden pockets, and has a dividable center compartment that fits protective camera or packing cubes if needed.

The two internal mesh zippered pockets are the right size for cords and headphones when you don’t need them, and it’s fully waterproof with a heavily padded laptop case.

My main beef is this expands with two button snaps, not a zipper. When the bag is overly full, the snaps can come apart, expanding your bag to the larger size whether want it to or not.

Note that this is a big bag, and when it’s full, you’ll want to use the chest and stow-away hip strap to ease the burden on your shoulders.

Bange Expandable Travel Backpack

The Expandable Travel Backpack from BANGE is not the cheapest carry-on backpack available on Amazon, but if you narrow the search to essential features for long-term use, like durable fabrics, quality stitching, and a comfortable carrying experience, the price is pretty good.

At around $65, you won’t get quite the same construction quality or warranty policies as one from a higher-end brand. What you do get are an expandable zipper to go from 22 to 38 liters, a wet storage compartment, and side straps for carrying items like jackets or a tripod.

I like the multiple slim pockets hidden on the front panel, as well as the bag’s generic look. It’s not overly outdoorsy or urban, which makes it appropriate for business travelers to hostel-going 20-somethings.

Gregory Border 40

Every bag recommended here has some kind of exterior weather resistance, but the Border series has it inside, too, which makes it ideal for beach travel. One side of the clamshell-style opening is fully lined with Gregory’s ActiveShield fabric, a water- and odor-proof plastic layer. It keeps any wet or stinky items, such as sand-covered flip-flops, swim trunks, or wetsuits, separated from the rest of your gear, even if your bag is tossed around.

With a sub-$200 price tag, this pack includes a dedicated laptop case, lots of external handles and attachment points, and front, top, and side pockets.

Made with fully recycled materials, it weighs under 3 pounds. Its hip belt can fit up to a 48-inch waist, and it’s wearable for a wider variety of body types than many comparable bags.

No Reception Club The Getaway Bag

Diaper bags are a dime a dozen on Amazon, but this one will likely last through multiple trips (and multiple kids). The Getaway Bag from No Reception Club is designed by traveling parents who have included multiple baby friendly features, like a wet pocket for dirty baby items, stroller clips, and side-access zippers to allow you to get into the bag one-handed with a kiddo in the other arm. There are also removable shelves to make sure snacks and toys don’t get squished.

Fortunately, the designers also seemed to remember that adults need things on planes, too, and so this bag has space for a laptop, a fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses, and a passport stash pocket. There’s even a pocket that fits perfectly with the brand’s diaper-change hip pack , so you can snag that for emergency diaper changes without lugging your whole bag into the bathroom.

The somewhat bland design means it can transition to a smaller carry-on backpack once the kids can handle their own bags.

I haven’t tested this in the context of toting a toddler. But every parent I shared it with to get feedback sent me the same response: “Looks amazing—can you get me one?”

Nemo Vantage 30L

While certain brands seem to have cornered the market on sustainable luggage— Cotopaxi and Fjällräven come to mind—few others are offering the recyclability and repair benefits of Nemo’s Vantage daypack. Every piece of the bag is recyclable, with straps, a sternum strap, and other parts that clip on and off for easy replacement.

Each bag comes with an internal QR code, and a quick scan goes to information on how to send it back for repairs, sell it back to the brand, or recycle it and get a Nemo credit (or straight Venmo deposit). The recycling is done by Ambercycle , which makes it into new fabric that NEMO buys to produce new bags.

Great stuff, but all of that’s moot if the carry-on isn’t useful. Fortunately, it is. Loaded with useful features, this pack has a duffel-style front zip, a shoe compartment, and a padded laptop compartment that ends just an inch or two above the bottom of the bag to prevent your laptop from hitting the ground when you drop the backpack on an airport floor. My only gripe is that the side pockets are too small for wide water bottles.

Osprey Archeon 40 + Archeon Sling

If the goal of taking a carry-on backpack is to fully skip checking your luggage, then maximize your space allowance with the Archeon 40 Backpack combined with the Archeon Sling .

The Sling attaches to the Archeon Backpack with external clips so it looks like one backpack when you’re boarding a plane—helpful if you’re also dragging a roller bag. But if you were to unclip the sling once you got on the plane, keeping that at your seat and storing your backpack overhead, well, that would be almost like having three carry-on bags, wouldn’t it?

But those who don’t play fast and loose with airplane rules still get 40 liters of space, divided among a large main compartment and several stash and side pockets. If you’re not clipping an Archeon line accessory to the external straps, you can use them for strapping down other items like jackets or sandals, adding even more to the bag’s already large carrying capacity.

I also like the load lifters—adjustable pulls on the shoulder straps that allow you to take almost all the bag’s weight off your shoulders.

Monos Metro Backpack

Most carry-on backpacks are not particularly attractive; the goal being to maximize every inch of space. That can turn even the best of bags into a bulbous lump. However, Monos—one of the early brands to jumpstart the hardshell luggage trend of the late 2010s—has nailed it with the Metro Backpack.

It opens just like a traditional backpack, though the zipper goes nearly to the bottom to save the annoyance of digging through from the top. Other access features I appreciate include a laptop pocket that you can get to without opening the main compartment and a waterproof pocket for shoes or wet clothes.

The coolest feature of the Metro Backpack is probably its compatibility with the Monos Modular Kit system. It comes with the separate “Metro Classic Kit,” a smaller bag that attaches to any item in the modular system. It’s big enough to hold cords, a smartphone, tech items, headphones, and other on-plane essential items. Between the laptop compartment and the Metro Kit, you can access just about anything you need on the plane without opening the main compartment.

The Monos also scores points for its style, with an old-school backpack design and multiple vegan leather color options (nylon options are available, too). It doesn’t have a hip or sternum strap, but the smaller size means it can never get heavy enough to really warrant them. It also lacks a breathable back panel which means it’s not the best pick for commuting or exploring in hot weather.

Minaal Carry-On 3.0 Bag

Europeans tend to be a little more formal when it comes to daily dress, so if you’re hoping to blend in a bit, skip the oversized, brightly colored bag that screams tourist.

Enter Minaal’s Carry-on 3.0 bag. It's not as stylish as, say, the Monos Backpack, but it’s one of the most sleek and tasteful carry-on backpacks you’ll find at this size. Many of the large backpack’s features are subtle but helpful, like load lifters to take weight off your shoulders and hidden bumpers to protect your laptop, as well as compression straps and a zip-away bottle pocket to create a slimmer profile.

Also beneficial for travel in Europe are zipper locks on the tech compartment and bag sizing printed directly on the strap—useful for airlines known to keep a closer eye on bag size than is common in the U.S. It’s also the max size for international carry-on (35 liters), sparing you from being hit with a dreaded last-minute checked bag fee.

Interestingly, Minaal claims the new 3.0 fabric is more resistant to lint and hair that previous iterations. As someone who often finds herself pulling dog hair out of her clothes even thousands of miles away from said dog, I can confirm this is true.

Cotopaxi Allpa

Cotopaxi’s brand is well known for colorful, adventure-ready gear designed for active travelers, and the Allpa Travel Backpack is just that. It's ideal for going from the airport to adventures without making a hotel stop first.

Features include a mesh back panel (for sweat management), weight distribution straps, and an easy access front pocket for sunglasses or travel documents. It also comes with a removable rain cover, though the pack's fabric is weather-resistant on its own.

Beyond that, the bag is not over-engineered and doesn’t waste space with additional pockets or thick materials. You can stuff the main compartments to the brim with clothing or packing cubes without the zippers feeling like they’re about to break. Loops on the exterior make it possible to clip on hats, water bottles, or the matching Cotopaxi sling bags.

The standard Allpa Travel Backpack is made entirely with recycled materials, or you can opt for a Del Dia option. The latter comes in random color combos chosen entirely by the factory workers, made exclusively with leftover material from other products. I recommend the 35-liter for maximizing your carry-on allowance.

Thule Subterra 2

It’s logical to think business travelers might want a high-end, petite leather pack, but when it comes to flying, economy class is the great equalizer. Business travelers still need plenty of space for clothing, organization pockets, waterproof materials, and everything else a non-business traveler would want.

That makes the Thule Subterra Expandable Travel Pack a great pick. It goes from 26 liters to 32 with a zipper to give travelers the option of maxing it out to pack, but then using it as an office-ready daypack for meetings and commuting.

This bag has a clamshell-style opening for easy packing, as well as a large top opening to the same compartment. The most useful feature is also the most ingenious: a built-in compression cube that snaps into the bag or can be used as a divider when empty.

Expert Suzie Dundas Shares Tips For a Hassle-Free Flight

Are all carry-on backpacks approved? How do I know mine will be OK for air travel?

The answer to that question is complicated. And it’s more complicated if you don’t fly the same airlines often, as there’s an answer that’s technically correct, and an answer on how it works in reality.

As a general rule, when flying U.S. airlines, you’re allowed at least one personal item. That item is supposed to be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. The country’s major airlines (United, American, Delta, and Southwest) all offer specs for how large your personal item can be. Of those airlines, Southwest allows the largest personal item. Personal items may be up to 18.5- x 8.5- x 13.5-inches large. Weight isn’t a factor for carry-on bags in the U.S.

I fly more than once a month and often see multiple people on my flights wearing carry-on backpacks nearly as big as roller bags, and I’ve not seen a flight attendant or gate agent tell someone their backpack was too large. Given the current high costs of checking luggage, it seems like it’s generally accepted that a backpack counts as a personal item, even if it’s pretty big.

If you’re using your carry-on backpack as your primary carry-on and storing it in overhead space, it needs to be below 45 liters for most U.S.-based carriers. But again, I’ve never seen a large U.S. airline representative tell someone their bag was too big, unless it was (a) egregiously large and clearly meant to be checked, or (b) a plane with unusually small overhead bins, in which case most people will have to gate check their carry-ons anyway.

That’s all for major US airlines (and most semi-major airlines, like Alaska). But when it comes to budget U.S. airlines, like Spirit or Frontier, there’s a higher chance your carry-on backpack will count as a full-sized carry-on, rather than a personal item. With budget airlines, there’s a higher chance that the gate agent will measure your bag in an airport bin, and potentially charge you for a carry-on, rather than a free personal item.

On international budget airlines, you should expect them to not only measure your bag, but weigh it, too. Airlines like EasyJet and RyanAir have weight limits for carry-on bags that can be fairly low. RyanAir doesn’t weigh personal items, but it does weigh carry-ons, with a 22-pound limit. And non-U.S. airlines are known for being more strict, so it’s best to use a smaller travel backpack with those airlines, especially if you’re also bringing a carry-on. The European carry-on limit for most carry-ons is 35 liters, not 45.

With international airlines, budget or otherwise, the baggage limits can vary wildly. I’ve flown on Ethiopian Air and discovered at check-in that a personal item was limited to 15 pounds. I’ve also flown Lufthansa, and had no problem carrying on a 2- x 3-foot framed painting covered in bubble wrap.

Ultimately, you can probably count on a travel backpack being problem-free as a personal item if you’re flying U.S. airlines, and if you’re pushing it size-wise, consider throwing a few items in your pockets, rather than boarding with an overstuffed bag.

For budget or international airlines, check the limitations in advance, and know that your backpack may be counted as your carry-on item, not a personal item.

If you really want to play by the rules, just use X (formerly Twitter) to send an airplane name to @carryonbagsizes. It’s a bot created by Minaal that will instantly reply with the maximum carry-on allowance.

Should I look for a carry-on backpack with a laptop compartment?

Whether you want a laptop compartment is up to you, but if you travel with a laptop, they’re quite helpful. A dedicated laptop pocket has padding, sparing you from also carrying a bulkier laptop case. If you have a laptop pocket, it's best to use it only for a laptop and close it when not in use. This prevents dust, dirt, and crumbs from getting into the pocket, which can get get stuck in your laptop’s ports and plugs.

If you can use the PSA PreCheck line when going through security, you don’t need to remove your laptop from your backpack. But if you don’t have PreCheck, opt for a bag with easy access so you can remove the laptop without opening your entire bag.

Without PreCheck, the only way you can leave your laptop in your backpack is if the bag has a TSA-friendly laptop pocket, meaning it lays flat on the x-ray belt. It has to meet a few other criteria, too, but fortunately, these are usually mentioned on the backpack product listings.

What can’t I pack in a carry-on backpack?

A large carry-on backpack can be a great luggage replacement, but there are a few items you can’t carry on, as they’re either banned by the airline, or banned by TSA.

The most obvious is liquids, as you’re limited to bringing 3.4 ounces within the U.S. Bottles larger than that aren’t allowed, even if the amount of liquid is below 3.4 ounces. You should also bring a refillable water bottle you can fill at your gate, since you can’t bring any beverages through TSA.

U.S. airlines also prohibit a variety of items that could cause damage or problems in flight. You can view the full list here , but the big ones include no flammable items, no sharp objects, and no guns or ammunition. Depending on the TSA officer’s attention to detail, they may even take shaving razors, knitting needles, or potentially sharp or heavy souvenirs.

Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com . She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine , SkyLife Magazine , Playboy , Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com . Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com . 

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The 11 Best Carry-on Travel Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These spacious and comfortable carry-on backpacks can easily replace a suitcase.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Skip the stress of checking a bag or lugging a traditional carry-on suitcase around an airport by adding a carry-on backpack to your travel gear. Practical, functional, and hassle-free, a carry-on backpack can fit up to a week’s worth of clothes, depending on your wardrobe and packing prowess. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or embarking on a weekend getaway, this style helps make your trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

We evaluated 89 carry-on backpacks in more than seven separate tests in our New York City lab and even utilized our airplane set — complete with a row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins — during the process. We then took each bag out into the world for at least six months to test its worth on a variety of trips.

Why I'm the Expert

After taking part in every single backpack test we've done since 2022, personally testing more than 50 bags, and even owning two packs from this list, including our best overall winner, I'm confident there is a carry-on backpack for every type of traveler here.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

I've used this pack for over four years and I'm confident I can fit more in it than a carry-on.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with its perfect performance in all categories of our testing. We loved its high capacity and thought the unstructured style was ideal for wedging clothes into every corner, maximizing packing space in the clamshell-style compartments. The shell is made of a TPU-coated 1000D polyester with a rubbery feel, and although it feels resistant to liquids, the backpack comes with a rain cover to ensure that your belongings stay dry while traveling. Handles on all four sides of the backpack make it easy to carry and lift into an overhead bin from any angle. The only downside to the bag is that it doesn't have a water bottle holder on the sides, so you'll have to carry one or try to fit it in the top pocket in the front.

During testing, we weren't surprised to see that the durable-feeling materials weren't damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed the bag onto the ground. Aside from testing this bag in our lab, I personally own it and have used it for countless trips in the last four years. The quality hasn't wavered in the slightest and I typically reach for the bag since I can fit more than I could in a carry-on. Plus, with the rising costs of bringing luggage on an airplane, this bag has been a real money-saver since I can usually fit my personal items inside, too.

The Details: 35 liters | 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.8 pounds | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, nylon | Padded laptop sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Long Trips

Away the outdoor convertible backpack 45l.

We love how comfortable it is on your shoulders and back thanks to the soft materials and cushioned shoulder straps.

At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.

You'll be surprised by just how spacious this backpack is. The main compartment opens up like a clam shell for easy access to items that allowed us to fit an entire four-day packing list with ease — plus a few extra items. There are multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets in this backpack that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter backpack can grow heavy when completely filled, the padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods of time. Plus, the convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you do grow fatigued.

This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times. There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag's fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.

The Details: 45 liters | 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best With Packing Cubes

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

It’s spacious and comes with three packing cubes to stay organized while traveling. 

After six months of use, the bag is scuffed up with noticeable scratches.

Perfect for travelers on a budget, the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack impressed us with its packing features and comfortable fit. We thought the bag provided excellent organization thanks to the interior and exterior compression that provided extra room for packing. The backpack comes with three different packing cubes in small, medium, and large. We also like that this backpack includes both a suitcase strap and a handle to hold it horizontally. The backpack itself also features straps inside and a laptop sleeve to easily hold down items and pack electronics.

The design didn’t blow us away like those from some of the more costly brands, but it does have a laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder. We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle. However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage. We think this budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack. 

The Details: 40 liters | 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | 2.7 pounds | Polyester | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

You can access the main compartment on the bag from four different exterior zippers.

This is one of the most expensive backpacks on our list.

This 45-liter backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its expansive design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Placing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was efficient and simple thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps to hold everything down securely. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag . It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod. 

Peak Design didn’t let any space go to waste on its backpack, so even the hip belt has a small pocket on it for storage and can be packed away when you’re not looking for extra support. It’s also easy to adjust all of the straps to prevent weight imbalances and pinching. Made of weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the bag held up perfectly after we tossed it on the ground, showing no signs of scuffs or damage — exactly what you want in a durable backpack . Although the price of this bag is steep, it comes with plenty of helpful features for travelers, and the stellar performance leads us to believe that it would last a long time. 

  The Details: 45 liters | 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | 4.8 pounds | Nylon, polyester | Laptop sleeve | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

It features adjustable straps to change the bag's size and a removable compressing wardrobe organizer.

The handle on the top of the bag wasn’t as comfortable to hold onto as we hoped. 

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use.

After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of adjustable buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long and a removable compressing wardrobe organizer that can be hung in a closet when you reach your destination.

We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting. The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpacks, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. Bonus, if you want a sustainable backpack , this one is made from made 100 percent recycled nylon and 64 percent recycled polyester. 

The Details: 20 to 42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

There are tons of pockets and a laptop compartment to help you organize your belongings.

After six months of use, we noticed the bag can feel quite heavy if packed full.

Packing for a trip can often feel tedious, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L helps make it easy and efficient. We loved how convenient it is to store a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment in the back of the bag, and there are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger. There are a ton of compartments and pockets that offer plenty of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes, with places to stash cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and more.

The adjustable shoulder straps and straps that go across the chest and waist help evenly distribute the backpack's weight, making it more comfortable to carry around, although we noticed during our long-term testing that the bag can still feel heavy if you pack it completely full. The 100 percent recycled nylon material felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time. 

The Details: 30 liters | 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

The expandable zippers add an extra 3.5 inches of space which increases the capacity to 30 liters.

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, the bag has a variety of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the number of pockets on the interior was a bit overwhelming at first, travelers who like to be extra organized will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and plethora of slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment. The handles and padded shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying the bag, and the small-to-medium size of the backpack makes it super comfortable to carry since it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.

The Details: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters) | 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches | 4.16 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

• Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

It has several compartments for keeping clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories organized.

The materials feel a little lower in quality than other backpacks we tried.

If you’re not ready to invest in a pricier carry-on backpack, you can always dip your toes with this functional and spacious one for under $60. This 40-liter backpack has one large main compartment that can fit several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case without any issues. We particularly love the separate footwear compartment to prevent the bottom of your shoes from coming into contact with clean clothes and that storage can even fit pairs up to size 12. In addition, there is a laptop pocket and a large front pocket with spots to put items like phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories that could get lost easily. Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it. 

The Details: 40 liters | 20 x 13 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Water-repellent nylon

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is crafted from 100 percent recycled and waterproof material to protect your belongings in bad weather.

The bag can feel a bit heavy to carry when it’s fully packed.

If you’re traveling somewhere with a rainy climate, you’ll want a carry-on backpack like this one from Tortuga that can ward off the elements. It’s made with the brand’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 or “sailcloth” material to protect your belongings and prevent bad weather from putting a serious damper on your trip. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack essentially sat in a puddle for hours, yet none of our gear or clothing inside got wet at all, and the bag was easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

This is a seriously spacious bag at 40 liters, so we found that you can seamlessly fit a week’s worth of clothing (or more) between the two clamshell compartments. Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side. And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.

The Details: 40 liters | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Waterproof sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

It has straps that distribute the bag's weight and makes it feel lighter, which is great for walking long distances.

It’s a large bag, but it wasn’t so heavy that it was uncomfortable to wear.

For travelers journeying on foot, the Osprey Fairview wowed us with its spacious interior and comfortable fit. The straps for walking longer distances are really the best part — making your bag feel like you're carrying less since the weight is so well distributed. The bags have the same storage capacity and general style, but Osprey’s women’s backpacks are designed to fit a smaller torso with waist and chest harnesses that sit upward and outward for a more comfortable carry. In testing, the main compartment and mesh zippered pouch on the front flap proved to be spacious. There are two internal compression straps and one external strap that kept belongings secure through our rough handling, so we think the bag would provide sufficient protection if you do need to check it in for a flight. 

We appreciated the padded shoulder straps and back that made wearing the backpack comfortable, despite the weight of its contents. The Osprey Fairview bags have an internal suspension the brand calls “LightWire” that distributes the weight from the harness to the hip belt, and our shoulders didn’t hurt after carrying the backpack since most of the weight shifted to the lower body.

The Details: 40 liters | 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Calpak terra 26l laptop duffel backpack.

With a modular design, we loved being able to carry this spacious pack as a duffel or backpack.

We found it was most comfortable to carry as a backpack when packed full.

The two-in-one design of this carry-on backpack from Calpak makes it the perfect piece of luggage to add to your collection. If you need to carry the backpack long distances, the padded straps offer plenty of comfort to protect the shoulders from feeling the weight of the pack, and they can be tucked away when they're not needed. For rushing off an airplane or grabbing the pack quickly, the duffel bag strap makes it easy to sling the pack over the shoulder within seconds. In testing, senior commerce editor Lydia Price preferred using the backpack straps after noting that the generous padding in the back and on the straps made the bag noticeably more comfortable to carry. I also own this bag and prefer to use the backpack straps, but I love having the option to carry it multiple ways as my needs change on the go.

Although the bag is medium-sized with a 26-liter capacity, it still has plenty of room to fit enough clothing for four or five days' worth of traveling thanks to the numerous pockets—an organizational design feature you'll find in many Calpak luggage pieces . The clamshell-style opening also makes it easy to organize items between the two compartments. The ripstop polyester fabric didn't scuff or scratch during our durability tests and we especially love that the outer material is water-resistant, which is helpful for all types of adventuring from urban to outdoor settings.

The Details: 26 liters | 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | 2.9 pounds | Recycled ripstop polyester | 17-inch padded laptop pocket

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on backpacks, there were some that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses revealed during testing. 

Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag Backpack : We loved how durable, comfortable, and water resistant this 35-liter backpack is. It also comes with a waterproof phone case that kept our phone dry when submerged underwater. However, the roll top is so long and cumbersome, it makes packing a bit of a hassle.

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus : We loved the adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the bag when not in use, but we think there are better bags out there for a fraction of the price. 

AmazonBasics Carry-on Travel Backpack : It had plenty of compartments for staying organized and the material felt durable, but there weren’t any standout features that made it a must-have backpack. 

Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L : This backpack fits all of the packing items, and it even fits under an airplane seat, but our budget pick performed slightly better and it costs less. 

On more than seven separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 89 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight into how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

To test for capacity, we began by packing the bags with three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. We noted if any space was left over as well as how functional the compartments were for organizing the contents packed. We evaluated the overall design of the bags by paying attention to how they fold out, how well the zippers and buckles work, and the functionality of each pocket or compartment. 

Next, we put on the backpacks and walked around for 10 minutes to rate comfortability. The highest scoring backpacks were exceptionally enjoyable to wear with the weight evenly distributed on the shoulders or hips.

Then, we threw the backpacks a few feet or off a countertop to test for durability. The highest-rated bags had no scuffs or tears after rough handling, and the packed items inside remained unharmed as well. 

Our testers had no previous knowledge of the cost of each backpack until after testing was completed. This allowed us to give an unbiased rating of overall values, where the top bags were determined to be fairly priced based on a high-quality performance, especially for the pricier bags. After our lab tests, the backpacks were sent out for real-world testing for up to six months.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags.

Not all carry-on backpacks will fit under the seat of an airplane, but if that’s your intended use, we recommend checking an airline’s underseat dimensions before heading to the airport. Similarly, with a carry-on backpack for the overhead bin, you’ll want to double-check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid paying unwanted fees if the bag is stuffed full of clothes. 

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

It may seem obvious, but to find the perfect travel backpack you need to first consider its primary function. For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space. When traveling by air, you might also want to consider an option with wheels for added convenience, like a rolling backpack, weekender, or duffel bag .

Frequently Asked Questions

During our test, we packed three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag into each bag and often had extra space for more clothes. Many backpacks come with a laptop compartment , but you’ll want to make sure that feature is included before purchasing yours.

Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to not fit within some limits. Most bags will have a product details section highlighting the dimensions of the backpack. If you’re looking to fit the bag solely under the seat , you should check to make sure the bag fits the dimensions while it’s packed.

It depends on the airline, where you're flying, and the kind of flight class you purchase. Some airlines only allow you to bring one item onto the plane with you, while others will let you bring a personal item, such as a backpack, and an additional carry-on item, like a suitcase or weekender. It's always best practice to double check your airline's luggage restrictions prior to traveling.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

After moving to New York City in the spring of 2022 to test travel gear for T+L, Anna Popp has spent countless hours personally testing more than 50 backpacks including bags on this list from Cotopaxi, Calpak, Peak Design, and Nomatic. She has been traveling with our top pick for more than four years — and even had to get everyone in her family the same bag so they would stop stealing hers.

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Related Articles

The Best Hardside Luggage in 2024, Tested by Experts

A hard shell suitcase keeps your stuff safe and un-squished.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

Most Popular

Away the carry-on.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we evaluate all kinds of popular luggage in the Textiles Lab, analyzing them for factors like durability, water resistance and ease of use. Plus, we share them with consumer testers who take them on their own trips and share real-world feedback. Over the years, we've tested luggage from more than 100 brands to find the best hardside suitcases on the market. We've put together a list of picks including lightweight, durable options and hard shell luggage with unique features that we think are worth it.

Samsonite's high-quality luggage has continued to perform well in our tests over the years , specifically in terms of durability during drop tests and ease of use. The brand's Freeform hardside suitcase is a favorite of our consumer testers who agree that its wheels roll smoothly and that the bag is easy to maneuver around twists and turns. It also received perfect scores in Lab tests for being a breeze to open and close.

Inside, a zippered panel and an adjustable cross strap keep your belongings in place, and we were able to fit our entire packing load in the bag with room to spare. Our consumer testers pointed out that the carrying handles are on the smaller side, but they still thought the bag was easy to pick up. There are three different sizes to choose from, or you can opt for a set including a carry-on and a checked bag for a cohesive look.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10.0" | Weight: | Material: Polypropylene | Expandable: Yes

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: 10 Best Samsonite Luggage Pieces, Tested & Reviewed

With more than 35,000 five-star reviews and a 4.5-star average rating, Amazon Basics' hardside luggage is a favorite of real users and GH analysts alike. When we tested this bag in our Textiles Lab, we found it to be spacious, and it received perfect scores for easy packing. Online reviewers agreed, saying that they can fill the suitcase with more than enough clothing and essentials for their trips.

The suitcase is made with ABS plastic, which isn't as durable as some other hard materials, but it is lightweight and keeps the price low. Testers appreciated the luggage's wheel performance, sharing that the bag is easy to maneuver, but they weren't as impressed with the telescopic handle and explained that it felt flimsier than other models they tried. This suitcase comes in three different sizes and is available in two and three-piece sets for an even better value.

Listed dimensions: 13.58" x 9.45" x 20.87" | Weight: 6.83 lbs | Material: ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes

Several of our Lab experts have been using luggage from uber-popular brand Away for years and have found them to stand the test of time. T his pick is made of polycarbonate material, which means it's lightweight yet durable. During Lab evaluations, we put its durability to the test and dropped the suitcase repeatedly from a set 3-foot height, noting no major signs of damage or prominent scuffing.

Our consumer testers thought the wheels on Away suitcases rolled smoothly and said they were easy to maneuver, but the telescopic handle isn't as sturdy as some other styles. In our packing tests, we were impressed by the compressive panels meant to keep your belongings in place and by the hidden laundry bag you can use to separate your dirty clothes. If you're unsure about splurging on a carry-on bag, Away offers a 100-day return policy for unused items.

Listed dimensions: 21.7" x 13.7" x 9" | Weight: 7.1 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: No

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: We Tested Away's Trendy Carry-On to See If It's Worth The Price

July Carry On

July's Classic hardside luggage has a simple yet sophisticated look, thanks to the smooth polycarbonate material with monochrome aluminum corners and real leather details. While it scuffed more than some other suitcases in our drop tests, the suitcase earned high scores overall for durability. The chic carry-on bag has a butterfly-opening with one zipper-enclosed side and one side with a compression panel and adjustable Y-strap to secure your belongings.

The telescopic handle has a unique contoured grip for comfort, and it locks into place at 20 different heights. One at-home tester commented, "I've tested many, many suitcases, but I've never used luggage that glided as smoothly as July's through an airport." Our in-Lab obstacle course testers agreed, rating July's bags highly for ease of use and its smooth rolling wheels, which barely make a sound as they roll over different surfaces.

Listed dimensions: 21.5" x 15" x 8.5" | Weight: 7.4 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: No

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE: July Luggage Review: Does the Brand Live up to the Hype?

Calpak Ambeur Collection 3-Piece Luggage Set

For luggage that's equally as fashionable as it is functional, Calpak's Ambeur suitcases are a must-have. The hard shell bags are made with a blend of ABS plastic and polycarbonate that's both lightweight and durable, but we did find the metallic colors scuffed easily. In Lab evaluations, the luggage was dubbed our "tester favorite" because consumer testers were so wowed by the design and overall ease of use.

The telescopic handles aced our tests, with one tester sharing that it was the "smoothest handle by far" out of all of the bags available for testing. Other testers agreed, explaining that the padded handles were comfortable to lift, pull and push. Plus, the Ambeur luggage earned high scores in our packing tests.

If you don't need a set of three bags, you can opt for a two-piece set or choose from any of the five styles available.

Listed dimensions: Large: 29.5" x 19 "x 12.5"; Medium: 25" x 16" x 11": Carry-on: 21" x 14" x 9" | Weight: Large: 10.3 lbs; Medium: 8.6 lbs; Carry-on: 6 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable:

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE: Calpak Luggage Review, My Honest Take

Monos Carry-On

Monos' less-is-more approach to design results in a sleek, timeless look that our testers loved. The durable polycarbonate luggage may have a simple appearance but doesn't skimp on quality or useful packing features. Inside, you'll find two spacious compartments: one zipper-enclosed compartment and one with an adjustable compression panel. There are also additional zippered pockets inside for even more organized storage space.

The bag aced durability tests, resisting major dents and damages after being dropped repeatedly from a 3-foot height, but it did show some signs of wear in our scratch tests. When testers tried it in our luggage obstacle course, they were impressed by how easy the bag was to maneuver and how smoothly the spinner wheels rolled around twists and turns. Monos offers luggage sets for an even better value and a generous 100-day return policy.

Listed dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9" | Weight: 7.01 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: No

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE: Monos Luggage Review: We Tested These Popular Sleek Suitcases

Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside Expandable Luggage

Known for its luggage made by pilots for pilots and frequent flyers alike, Travelpro primarily offers soft fabric luggage, but the brand does have a few hardside pieces including the featured Maxlite Spinner. This bag has a roomy luggage compartment with two zippered panels, and it can be expanded by 2 inches, lending you extra room for all of your souvenirs on the trip home.

In our Lab tests, Travelpro bags were easy to fill with a full load of clothing and travel gear like toiletries and shoes. They also performed well and earned high durability ratings. Testers loved the cushioned telescopic handles which lock at two different heights. We did find the carrying handles to be on the tighter side, which can make the bag difficult to lift into an overhead bin.

Listed dimensions: 19.75" x 13.75" x 9.5" | Weight: 6.3 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE: Travelpro Luggage Review: We Tested the Platinum Elite Collection

Rimowa Cabin S Carry-On

Rimowa only makes hardside luggage, and it's a cutting-edge brand that continues to impress our Textiles Lab experts . The Original line is made with aluminum, which is more durable than other hard materials like ABS plastic and polycarbonate. This style of suitcase features the brand's iconic grooved design and has a zipperless closure, opting for locking latches instead — TSA-approved, of course.

The bag unfolds to reveal two primary spacious packing compartments and two adjustable compression panels to keep everything securely in place. Rimowa's suitcases are much more expensive than other brands, but they are among the best in our tests with high ratings for packing space, durability and maneuverability.

Listed dimensions: 15.7" x 9.1" x 21.6" | Weight: 9.46 lbs | Material: Aluminum | Expandable: No

Briggs & Riley Global 21" Carry-On Expandable Spinner

This innovative suitcase from Briggs & Riley is full of features to make packing for an international trip easier. On the outside of the hardside suitcase is an easy-access pocket for your phone and ID. The bag unzips into one large packing space that's fully lined and contains three zip pockets for easy organization.

The bag utilizes Briggs & Riley's unique expansion system, which allows you to expand the bag for additional packing space and then compress it to its standard size once the bag has been filled — with just the push of a button. Our testers recently tried a softside bag from the brand with the same system and were blown away by how much they could fit inside, sharing that there was way more room than expected.

When we tested Briggs & Riley's hardside suitcases in the Textiles Lab, they performed well, receiving high scores for durability, water resistance and ease of use. Testers also shared that the brand's bags were easy to maneuver through our obstacle course and said the telescopic handles were sturdy. Although we didn't experience this issue, some online reviewers have shared that the zipper pulls are prone to breaking with regular use.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 9" x 21" | Weight: 8.6 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes

Other hardside luggage we evaluated

We've tested more than 100 suitcases in recent years. Here are a few others we've evaluated that weren't featured but are still worth considering:

• Beis Carry-On Roller : With convenient features like a weight indicator, a bag attach strap and a super-padded telescopic handle, this carry-on suitcase from Beis is popular online, but it scuffs easily and wasn't as durable as other bags we tested.
• Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 : It's chic with faux-leather details and wheels that glide effortlessly, but the carry-on bag is on the smaller side and doesn't expand. Our testers said they had to push its packing capacity to the limit – even on shorter trips.
• Victorinox Airox Frequent Flyer Hardside Carry-On : One of the lightest carry-on bags we've ever tested, this suitcase from Victorinox has a T-bar shaped telescopic handle, which helps keep the bag's weight down. Although it isn't as comfortable to use as others we've tried.
• Herschel Hardshell Carry On : This simple suitcase from Herschel aced our packing tests, but the telescopic handle and wheels just aren't up to par with other popular carry-on bags.

How we test luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we test luggage using specialized equipment in our Textiles Lab and with consumer testers . When we review luggage, we consider these factors:

• Size and weight: In the Lab, we measure the size and weight of each suitcase to ensure that all online size claims are accurate. We place carry-on bags in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to see if they meet TSA size requirements.
• Extra features: We make note of any additional features or components that make the luggage stand out, like carrying handles, built-in locks and telescopic handles that adjust to different heights.

• Ease of use: We rate how easy it is to zip and unzip each piece of luggage (pictured here) and consider the accessibility of any packing compartments. We also consider features like telescopic handles and wheels.

After packing each bag, we roll it over different surfaces including tile, carpet and hardwood and test the carrying handles by lifting the bag onto a countertop.

• Packing: We fill each bag with a standard packing load for a two-night trip including clothing, accessories and toiletries (pictured here) and then score the suitcases based on how much they're able to hold.

• Drop testing: Each piece of luggage is filled with a standard weight and dropped from a 3-foot height from different angles to mimic real use (pictured here). We then analyze the luggage for signs of damage like dents or cracks.

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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The best carry-on luggage to make your next plane trip a breeze

From backpacks to rolling luggage, these are the perfect carry-ons for storing all your travel essentials.

With rising checked baggage fees and lost luggage horror stories, having a reliable carry-on suitcase these days is a must. The best carry-ons shouldn’t just fit airline size requirements, they should be durable, functional, and stylish. We picked carry-on luggage that meet a wide variety of needs—from compact options ideal for quick trips to roomier bags that can accompany you across the world and back.  

The best overall carry-on luggage is the Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner , which ticks all the boxes for size, weight, compartments, and sturdiness. What’s more, it offers a sleek design, spacious interior, and helpful features such as a built-in TSA lock with an integrated USB port.  

Our picks for the best carry-on luggage

The best carry-on luggage    .

Ahead, learn more about the best carry-on luggage for every trip, no matter where your travels take you.  

Best overall carry-on luggage: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner  

Buy it now at Samsonite

Why we like it: The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner is our best overall carry-on luggage bag. It’s made from a polypropylene shell designed to withstand weather, bumps, and airport security handling. Four multidirectional spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through crowded airports and busy streets. It also has a compact panel divider that works like a compression system , helping travelers pack more while staying organized.  

The Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner comes with multiple compartments and pockets inside for efficient organization. You can also expand the suitcase up to an inch , a great bonus when you need a bit more packing space. We appreciate that the interior liner fabric is made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles, according to the manufacturer.  

Keep in mind: The polypropylene shell can get scratched . However, choosing a darker-colored shell should make scratches less noticeable.  

Product details:   External dimensions: 15 x 10 x 23 in. | Hard or soft: Hard | Weight: 6.4 lbs. | Number of wheels: 4 | Compartments: 6 | TSA lock: Yes | USB port: Yes | Warranty: Limited 10-year global warranty  

The best budget carry-on luggage: Quince Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase  

Buy it now at Quince

Why we like it: When it comes to quality, a higher price tag doesn’t always ensure a better payoff. At $130 , the Quince Carry-On Hard Shell suitcase (which I own) is more affordable than most, yet it offers the same–if not more–great features.  

The outside is a sturdy polycarbonate shell , while the inside contains a zippered section and a compression panel with buckles for added security. The suitcase glides on 360-degree wheels and has a comfortable rubber handle. It comes in 10 colors and two sizes (20 or 21 inches in height), plus a removable laundry bag .    

Keep in mind: The carry-on versions of this suitcase are smaller than others , which tend to clock in at 22 inches. The smaller size could impact how much you can pack.    

  Product details: External dimensions: 13.5 x 9.1 x 20.1 in (20-in. option); 14.6 x 9.8 x 20.9 in. (21-in. option); | Hard or soft: Hard | Weight: 6.7 lbs. | Number of wheels: 4 | Compartments: 3 | TSA lock: Yes | USB port: No | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty    

The best small carry-on luggage: Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage  

Buy it now at Calpak

Why we like it: Small but mighty, this Calpak mini carry-on luggage is ideal for those who prefer to pack light. Measuring nine inches in width , it can fit under most airline seats. The polycarbonate exterior eases concerns about your things getting damaged or squashed.      

Additionally, this suitcase has four smooth-gliding wheels and a zippered interior divider with multiple pockets for storing small electronics, books, and jewelry. We also appreciate that the handle extends to almost 21 inches, making it easy for tall travelers. This bag comes in nine colors.  

  Keep in mind: This carry-on may seem suitable for work travel, but it doesn’t have laptop storage . It would be best for business travelers who don’t want to bring a briefcase or work bag or for short trips .  

  Product details:   External dimensions: 14 x 9 x 16 in. | Hard or soft: Hard | Weight: 6 lbs. | Number of wheels: 4 | Compartments: 5 | TSA lock: Yes | USB port: No |   Warranty: Two-year limited warranty  

The best hard-shell carry-on luggage: Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-On Spinner  

Buy it now at Delsey Paris

Why we like it: Made with a textured basketweave polycarbonate shell with vegan leather trim, the Delsey Paris spinner is both sturdy and attractive. Four double-spinner wheels provide multidirectional mobility, while the soft trolley handle offers comfortable maneuvering (even when running through an airport).  

The interior is organized with dual compartments that have compression cross straps and zippered dividers to keep belongings secure and tidy. A USB port provides convenient charging, plus, this bag has an antimicrobial fabric lining that helps eliminate bacteria and provide odor control.    

Keep in mind: There’s a chance the vegan leather trim could get scuffed while traveling. To help preserve it, bring leather cleaner for touch-ups on the go.  

Product details:   External dimensions: 13.75 x 10 x 21.75 in. | Hard or soft: Hard | Weight: 6.39 lbs. | Number of wheels: 4 | Compartments: 4 | TSA lock: Yes | USB port: Yes | Warranty: Limited 10-year warranty  

The best rolling carry-on luggage: Béis The Carry-On Roller  

Buy it now at B é i s

Why we like it: The Béis roller is a great choice for travelers who want style and functionality. Featuring a polycarbonate exterior, this carry-on is lightweight and sleek. Its smooth-rolling, 360-degree spinner wheels and telescopic cushioned silicone handle make it easy to maneuver. Perhaps the best part of this bag is the interior, which has multiple compartments, a compression strap, and a removable zippered pouch.  

Keep in mind: At slightly more than eight pounds, this carry-on is heavier than most. It could be difficult for some travelers to lift into overhead bins.  

  Product details: External dimensions: 9.8 x 15.7 x 22.8 in. | Hard or soft: Hard | Weight: 8.36 lbs. | Number of wheels: 4 | Compartments: 8 | TSA lock: Yes | USB port: No | Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty  

The best kids’ carry-on luggage: State Logan Carry-On Suitcase

Buy it now at State

Why we like it: The bestselling State Logan Carry-On Suitcase comes in two sizes : “mini,” for kids ages three to five, and “normal,” for kids ages six and up. Both sizes have two main interior compartments—one with an elastic strap to keep things condensed and another with a zippered flap closure and mesh exterior pocket . This suitcase also has a front pocket with multiple slip pockets inside, which is a great place to store (and easily access) pencils, coloring books, and toys. We like that the interior lining is made from 100 percent recycled polyester. Additionally, a side strap lets you stash a water bottle or stuffed animal. It comes in 17 colors.  

Keep in mind: The main body of this kids’ carry-on luggage can only be spot-cleaned , so you may not want to check it because it can get dirty.  

Product details: External dimensions: 9.45 x 13.4 x 18.7 in. (“normal” size) | Hard or soft: Hard | Weight: 6.44 lbs. | Number of wheels: 4 | Compartments: 7 | TSA lock: No | USB port: No | Warranty: One-year warranty  

The best carry-on luggage with laptop compartment: July Carry-On Pro  

Buy it now at   July

Why we like it: This July carry-on is ideal for business travelers. The polycarbonate hardshell front pocket features a 15-inch laptop sleeve and two padded inner pockets , providing ample protection for electronics in close reach. Plus, it has an ejectable power bank that can charge phones and laptops.  

The July carry-on has all the other bells and whistles too, including four 360-degree wheels and a 20-inch multi-stop telescopic handle. The water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining, plus leather finishes on the nylon straps and hinge round out a solid bag for your laptop.  

Keep in mind: There are only two main compartments inside , so it’s not ideal for travelers who want to stay more organized.    

Product details:   External dimensions: 8.5 x 15 x 21.5 in. | Hard or soft: Hard | Weight: 8.6 lbs. | Number of wheels: 4 | Compartments: 3 | TSA lock: Yes | USB port: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime warranty  

The best carry-on luggage for international travel: Tumi Continental Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On

Buy it now at Tumi

Why we like it: Aside from its sturdiness and helpful warranty, this Tumi bag is constructed from the brand’s FXT ballistic nylon , which offers durability and resilience. It has smooth, 360-degree spinner wheels , a retractable top, side grab handles , and expands to two inches. The interior has multiple compartments, zippered pockets, and compression straps to keep belongings secure and neat. We also like the built-in USB-C charging port , which means it supports more cables and has fast charging capabilities. Bonus: Tumi has airport shops around the world, which is convenient if you need repairs while traveling.  

Keep in mind: This bag is expensive . Travelers may want to avoid checking it to minimize the risk of damage or loss.  

Product details:   External dimensions: 9 x 16 x 22 in. | Hard or soft: Soft | Weight: 11.4 lbs. | Number of wheels: 4 | Compartments: 6 | TSA lock: Yes | USB port: Yes | Warranty: Five-year warranty  

Lightest carry-on luggage: Aurora New Generation 22 Rolling Bag  

Buy it now at Crew Outfitters

Why we like it: “My favorite lightweight carry-on luggage is the Aurora New Generation Rolling Bag,” says Kaitlyn Gaines , a flight attendant with Delta Airlines. “It’s a two-wheeler bag and has several different compartments internally and externally . In this industry, it can be hard to stay organized at times, but having so many compartments to house our gratitude cards or crew position assignment cards makes it a lot easier.”  

Because this suitcase has a soft fabric shell and lightweight skate wheels , it weighs under 10 pounds . We also like the sliding telescopic handle, high-quality rubber wheels, metal J-hook buckle, and reinforced carry handles. Plus, the black honeycomb PVC frame doesn’t show dirt or stains.  

Keep in mind: This suitcase doesn’t come with a warranty .  

Product details:   External dimensions: 8 x 14 x 22 in. | Hard or soft: Soft | Weight: 9.6 lbs. | Number of wheels: 2 | Compartments: 7 | TSA lock: No | USB port: No | Warranty: N/A  

The best carry-on luggage backpack: Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack  

Buy it now at Away

Why we like it: If a rolling suitcase isn’t your thing, this Away convertible backpack may work for you. It holds a carry-on suitcase’s worth of clothes for up to five days and features dual interior and exterior compression systems that help you pack more. We love the removable padded straps that let you convert the bag into a backpack or a duffel . Multiple compartments—including a padded laptop sleeve , quick-access pockets, and internal organizers—keep items organized and accessible. And it’s all made from a water- and abrasion-resistant fabric, plus responsibly sourced materials, according to the company.    

Keep in mind: This bag doesn’t have structured corners so it won’t hold its shape or sit up straight, as shown in the product photos.  

Product details:   External dimensions: 9.5 x 13.6 x 21.7 in. | Hard or soft: Soft | Weight: 3.32 lbs. | Number of wheels: 0 | Compartments: 7 | TSA lock: No | USB port: No | Warranty: Limited one-year warranty  

How we chose the best carry-on luggage bags  

When narrowing down the best carry-on luggage bags, we considered reliable brands with credible reputations and durable products. From there, we sifted through several other online sources and relied on interviews with travel experts and our own first-hand knowledge. Here’s what we examined:  

• Third-party reviews: We dug through third-party reviews from verified customers to understand the products better, including their best and worst features.    
• Brand reputation: Brand reputation matters because established companies have built a history of producing high-quality, durable products. Trusted brands also provide better warranties and reliable customer support.  
• Size: A carry-on luggage bag’s dimensions are key because airlines have size restrictions for overhead bins and can charge fees for larger bags. Additionally, the right size allows travelers to pack what they need without leaving anything behind.  
• Weight: We looked for lightweight carry-ons for handling ease, especially for lifting in and out of overhead bins.  
• Compartments: The number and quality of pockets are important for keeping belongings organized and easily accessible, making packing and unpacking more efficient.  
• Durability: A suitcase that can withstand the wear and tear of travel is well worth the investment. A durable suitcase made from materials like polycarbonate, aluminum, or ballistic nylon can help protect what’s inside.  
• Mobility: We prioritized bags with good mobility because that affects how easily travelers can navigate through airports, train stations, and streets. Luggage with smooth-rolling, multidirectional spinner wheels make it easy to get around, while sturdy, telescopic handles ensure travelers can comfortably reach and pull their luggage.  

Tips for buying carry-on luggage  

Here are a few things to consider when buying carry-on luggage.  

Size is one of the most important factors to consider when buying carry-on luggage. Airlines have strict size restrictions for carry-on luggage. Going over these limits can result in the airline charging you fees or checking your bag. The right size bag with smartly designed compartments and pockets allows travelers to pack efficiently. Size also plays a role in how easy it is to maneuver your carry-on around on the ground and get it in and out of overhead compartments.  

  Weight is an important consideration in choosing a carry-on. Lightweight suitcases are easier to lift, carry, and pull along. A lighter bag also allows travelers to pack more, without impacting maneuverability too much. Consider getting a carry-on made with recycled materials, polypropylene, or polycarbonate as these can be lighter than other materials.  

Wheels or no wheels    

When choosing between carry-ons with wheels or no wheels, it’s important to think about your travel needs and preferences. Luggage with wheels (especially our favorite multidirectional spinner wheels) offer greater mobility and maneuverability. This can make traveling more comfortable since you don’t have to carry a heavy bag. On the other hand, wheeled luggage can be bulkier and may take up more space, especially in overhead compartments. For travelers who like simplicity, a wheel-less carry-on may be preferable since this type of luggage is typically more compact, making it easier to lift and store in tight spaces.  

Compartments  

Compartments are great for those who value efficient organization and want easy access to their belongings when traveling. Multiple compartments and pockets help keep items separate and secure. This not only prevents things from shifting during travel but also makes it easier to find things quickly, whether at the airport or in the hotel room. Compartments can also allow for better packing strategies, such as separating clean clothes from dirty ones.    

Hard or soft  

Simply put, the choice between hard or soft luggage depends on preference. Hard-sided luggage, which is often made from materials like polycarbonate or aluminum, offer protection for items and can withstand rough handling better than soft-sided luggage. They’re also typically water-resistant and easier to clean. However, soft-sided luggage (usually made from fabrics like nylon or polyester) can expand to accommodate more items. Soft-sided carry-ons are generally lighter and easier to fit into small spaces too, such as under an airplane seat.  

Expandability  

Some suitcases can expand capacity via zippers. Most expandable suitcases can add up to one inch in space. This feature is convenient for travelers who need extra room for souvenirs or other purchases during their trip. You won’t need to upgrade to a larger suitcase, which can save baggage fees.  

Frequently asked questions  

What kind of carry-on luggage is best  .

The best carry-on luggage is durable and has great mobility, organization, and security. It should meet airline size and weight restrictions; be made with high-quality, long-lasting materials; and have organizational features, such as multiple compartments and pockets. Ultimately, preference plays a part too, depending on whether travelers want hard or soft luggage, expandable options, and additional features, such as built-in TSA-approved locks.  

What is the right size of carry-on luggage?  

Generally speaking, most airlines allow carry-on bags that are approximately 22 inches tall, 14 inches wide, and nine inches deep (including handles and wheels). But experts say to check with airlines, since overhead bins are not all the same.  

Is hard or soft luggage better for carry-on?  

Choosing between hard or soft luggage hinges on what you prioritize while traveling—the durability and protection that comes with hard luggage, or the flexibility and lighter weight with soft luggage. Hard-sided luggage can protect items better, is more water resistant, and offers enhanced security with built-in locks. On the other hand, soft-sided luggage provides greater flexibility, lighter weight for toting around, and additional exterior pockets for easy access to essentials.    

What is the largest TSA-approved carry-on size?  

The largest TSA-approved carry-on size is typically 22 inches in height, 14 inches in width, and nine inches in depth. However, these dimensions can vary between airlines. Some airlines allow carry-ons that are 21 inches tall, while others permit bags that are up to 24 inches tall. To avoid any issues at the airport, always check the specific carry-on size requirements of the airline you are flying with before your trip.  

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The 12 best belt bags, from fashionable finds to the ultimate travel packs

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The '90s fanny pack is making a major comeback, but if you're hoping for the same neon, one-compartment sling you used to hide under your windbreaker, you're going to be a bit disappointed. With its resurgence, the fanny pack has undergone a modern makeover for a life on-the-go. Now known as the stylish and versatile belt bag, your favorite hip accessory from yester-year has transformed into a hands-free fashion moment that combines both form and function into one easy, sleek method of storing your essentials. 

Top belt bag picks

If you’re looking for a simple and affordable belt bag that provides durability and can fit an iPhone 14 Pro Max, this Ododos option from Amazon fits the bill. Best of all, it's $14 and just as durable as bags many times that price.

If you want the convenience of a belt bag with the style of a luxury purse, this is a great solution. KAAI's elegant bag is made from 100% Italian leather with a sophisticated suede interior. The only issue is that it's slightly narrow, but it's still big enough for a wallet, lipstick, keys, and some other essentials.

This Dagne Dover fanny pack is designed with functionality in mind. Highlights include an adjustable strap, a front zipper pocket, plenty of room for cash and credit cards, and a durable lining made with recycled polyester. Best of all? It’s machine-washable and available in six beautiful hues.

Best overall: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

One belt bag easily stands above the rest when it comes to versatility, color and size options, affordability, and popularity, and that is the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag . For under $40, you'll snag an excellent, water-repellent sling perfected for everyday use. 

The nylon-and-recycled polyester fabrics of the bag make it pliable and comfortable, while the adjustable strap offers a snug fit that stays put on the move. A hidden, exterior pocket means you can keep items like your phone close to your chest, while the main compartment features a mesh pocket to better keep you organized. 

With fourteen different colors to choose from including bold and bright options alongside neutrals, there's something for everyone. It's even available in large and mini sizes if you're not content with the 1 liter capacity of the original. 

Best budget: Quince Nylon Belt Bag

A reliable brand in both quality and affordability, Quince lands as the number one pick for most affordable belt bag. But beyond its reasonable price tag, the Revive Nylon Belt Bag is made from 100% recycled nylon, with four recycled bottles total going into the production of each bag. 

It is extremely similar to the lululemon bag — especially in terms of capacity and material. A back slip pocket allows you to store easy-to-reach essentials like your phone, while an interior slip pocket suits all valuables you want to keep inaccessible. It's also lightweight enough to be used daily, helping you run errands more efficiently with just the essentials on you 

For more of our favorite picks from the brand, see our full Quince review .

Best on Amazon: Ododos Mini Belt Bag

If you're looking for a no-frills belt bag that comes in a variety of colors and gets the job done, this ODOS belt bag is a solid option.

An Amazon best seller , this simple-yet-sleek design can be worn as a shoulder bag, crossbody bag, waist bag, or hand bag. It's lightweight, but roomy enough to hold essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, passport, and credit cards with room to spare in hidden side compartments and a back zippered compartment. Its mostly nylon material makes it very durable, and the variety of colorways available makes it a great unisex option. The best part? Because it's so affordable, you can get it in multiple colors to match multiple outfits.

Best leather: KAAI Ikon Bag

For a belt bag that's both sophisticated and can easily be transitioned from day-to-night looks, try the KAAI Ikon Belt Bag. Made from 100% Italian cow leather with a sleek matte finish and supple suede interior, this is an elevated hands-free option that combines convenience with style.

The outer magnetic closure makes for easier access to your valuables, while an interior zippered compartment makes the perfect home for cash or credit cards. Unique to the KAAI Ikon Belt Bag is also a small elastic loop to hold pencils or pens, so you're never without something to write with. Choose from eight diverse colors, from cool neutrals to bold, embossed designs.

The only issue is that it's a touch narrow. But if you only carry keys, a phone, a small wallet, and a lipstick or two, then it's perfect.

KAAI's elegant Pyramid Bag also made our list of the best work bags for women .

Best for travel: Dagne Dover Cairo Sling Bag

If you're looking for an easier, lighter carry-on than a duffle, or simply want to win TSA's most prepared traveler award, the Dagne Dover Cairo Sling Bag was made for you. While a bit bigger and potentially heavier than some of the other belt bags on our list, the Cairo Sling Bag makes up for its bulk with a variety of smartly crafted compartments to keep you hyper-organized. Fit everything you need and then some in its plentiful pockets that keep your necessities easily accessible, even in a rush.

The Cairo is also made from 100% vegan, recycled materials that prove especially durable for travel, along with an adjustable strap that can transform this bag from a belt bag to a sling. When you're done using it, you can easily pack it away in your luggage once you reach your destination.

Best Neoprene: Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

Looking for the ultimate throwback fanny pack with a modern twist? Dagne Dover has just the thing. The brand's beloved Ace Fanny Pack comes in its signature 100% vegan neoprene that's both stretchy and soft-to-the-touch. The design is clever and streamlined, with the classic fanny pack zipped pocket at the front and a wider opening featuring a card compartment, a key clip, and a lipstick compartment.

For cards you need ASAP, there's even a hidden card compartment on the back. Perfect for everyday wear, this belt bag is incredibly light, and looks effortlessly stylish when worn crossbody.

Best for hiking: Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack

For days spent outdoors, look no further than the utility of the Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack. With its five-liter capacity, it offers ample storage for snacks, base layers, and so much more while you're on the move. This belt bag is also made from cool and comfortable mesh with a breathable back panel that offers some added comfort without any extra heat. Stretch water bottle pockets on both sides of the bag mean you'll be able to keep yourself hydrated, while the 100% recycled polyester with a PU coating makes it durable and weather-resistant to any conditions you might face.

Best unisex: Herschel Pop Quiz Hip Pack

When it comes to durable, functional and stylish bags for travel and everyday life, Herschel always provides solid options. The Pop Quiz Hip Pack is no different, with a matte weather-resistant coating that keeps belongings dry during rainy commutes or less predictable hiking weather.

Its variety of unisex color options and sleek design make it a great option for both men and women, and the adjustable strap suits a variety of sizes. Though there's only one main compartment, an internal mesh organizer helps you to keep track of your stuff while a key ring makes sure you never lose your keys again.

Best oversized: Calpak Luka Belt Bag

On the days when you need to carry a bit more with you but still want the hands-free capabilities of a belt bag, opt for the Calpak Luka Belt Bag . Out of all the bags on our list, the Luka Belt Bag has the biggest and deepest dimensions, meaning you can squeeze in a lot more without feeling any additional weight or bulk thanks to the lightweight, flexible material. The slightly quilted design offers a bit more effortless detail than some of the other options on this list, plus it's available in 18 colors, so there's a Luka bag for just about every 'fit.

Best mini: Athleta All About Crossbody Belt Bag

Then there are the days when all you require is your phone, keys, and a small tube of ChapStick, and for those occasions, there's the Athleta All About Crossbody Belt Bag . Though it's a bit smaller and more narrow, Athleta's belt bag is truly mighty with a zippered front pocket for smaller items and a mesh inner pocket for valuables like your phone.

The waterproof, recycled polyester makes for a softer, more pliable fabric that allows you to stretch in what you need. The strap is also adjustable and detachable, so this bag can double as a mini packing cube for when you're on-the-go. It even has a removable belt so you can wear it as a sling or on your waist.

Best machine-washable: Rothy's The Belt Bag

Sustainability meets versatility in this unique, completely machine washable belt bag by Rothy's. Like the brand's flats, Rothy's Belt Bag is knit with a combination of threads made from marine plastics collected 30 miles from waterways and plastic bottles. The secure magnetic closure allows for easy access to your valuables, while two additional pockets and an interior card slot keep you organized. The best feature, though, is the adjustable and detachable belt, which allows you to wear this bag four ways – across the body, over the shoulder, as a belt, or as a clutch.

For more of our favorite products from the brand, see our full Rothy's review .

Best splurge: Senreve Aria Belt Bag

If you're looking for a belt bag that can truly double as a fashion-forward purse, we highly recommend the Senreve Aria Belt Bag . It's masterfully designed with belt loops on both the exterior and interior of the bag so it can be worn as a belt bag, sling, crossbody bag, or clutch. The shape is also one of the more intriguing on our list, with a magnetic belt-like fastener that proves to be both stylish and secure. 

The Aria Belt Bag isn't short on storage options – the large main compartment can fit your phone, a small wallet, and your AirPods, while a hidden pocket on the front exterior underneath the closing flap fits cards easily. There's also a hidden pocket in the interior for other valuables. While available in a wide variety of vegan and Italian leathers, featuring unique colors and embossed styles, the Aria Belt Bag isn't the most pliable on our list. If you overstuff the bag, you'll have difficulties closing it, making it a better option for a light travel day.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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