Best Carry-on Backpack for International Travel: 15 Budget Options

Are you planning a trip and looking for the best carry-on backpack for international travel that won’t break the bank? Then you’re in luck! In this article, I’ve compiled a list of 15 budget-friendly options to make your travel experience hassle-free. 

These backpacks offer spacious compartments and comfort, ranging from 25L to 50L in size, meeting airline carry-on regulations perfectly. Say goodbye to bulky suitcases and hello to convenience and style! Travel with ease, explore new destinations worry-free, and never compromise on quality. 

Now let’s dive right into the top picks for the best carry-on backpacks for international travel at affordable prices!

1) Vancropak Lightweight Travel Backpack, 40L ($41.99)

If you’re looking for a lightweight travel backpack that doesn’t compromise on quality or functionality, the Vancropak 40L is the perfect choice. This backpack is designed with the modern traveler in mind, offering an expandable design that allows you to increase its capacity up to 40L.

It meets the maximum size allowed by IATA flights for carry-on luggage, ensuring that you won’t have any issues at the airport. The TSA 180-degree zipper closure makes security checks a breeze, while the hideaway padded shoulder straps allow for easy storage when not in use.

The Vancropak 40L also offers a range of features to enhance your travel experience. With padded handles on both the top and side, as well as adjustable chest straps and exterior side compression buckles, this backpack provides flexible carrying options and pressure relief. The main compartment has a separate mesh pocket and ample space for all your belongings, while the front compartment boasts various pockets for smaller items. There’s even an anti-theft back pocket for valuables.

Made of lightweight water-resistant polyester and anti-scratch material, this backpack is durable and built to last. The easy-to-close and open zippers ensure quick access to your belongings, making it convenient when you’re on the go. While it may not have a dedicated water bottle pocket, this backpack excels in other areas such as organization with multiple pockets featuring zippers.

Pros:

• Durable material
• Useful pockets
• Expandable design
• Hideaway shoulder straps
• Easy to carry as a suitcase
• Reduce pressure on shoulders and neck
• Comfortable handles and straps

Cons:

• No water bottle pocket

2) JCDOBEST Backpack with 3 Packing Cubes, 50L ($58.99)

When packing for your next adventure, don’t forget the JCDOBEST Backpack with 3 Packing Cubes, offering you a generous 50L capacity. This backpack is designed to make your travel experience easier and more organized. With its expandable feature, you’ll have enough space to pack all your essentials and more.

The water-resistant polyester fabric and anti-scratch material ensure that your belongings stay safe and dry throughout your journey. The multiple hidden pockets and side zipper pockets provide easy access to important items like passports or wallets. Plus, with the external USB port and set-in charging cable, you can conveniently charge your electronic devices on the go.

The JCDOBEST Backpack also features adjustable shoulder straps, chest straps, an air-mesh ventilated back panel, and two sturdy handles for comfortable carrying options. Its convertible design with hideaway padded shoulder straps allows you to switch between using it as a backpack or a carry-on bag. The luggage strap on the back makes it easy to attach to your suitcase during international travels or cruises.

Pros:

• Generous 50L capacity
• Expandable feature for extra packing capacity
• Multiple hidden pockets for easy access

Cons:

• Some customers reported issues with stitching inside the supply area

3) Lumesner Backpack With 4 Packing Cubes, 40L ($42.89)

The Lumesner Travel Backpack is one of the most popular choices among travelers, with its 40L capacity and included packing cubes that make it a versatile option for those who prioritize organization and convenience. This backpack is designed to fit overhead and under the seat as a standard carry-on size, making it ideal for international travel.

With its large capacity, you can easily pack all your essentials for a 3 to 7-day trip, including outfits, toiletries, camera gear, and more. The four packing cubes that come with the backpack help keep your belongings neatly organized and easily accessible.

The adjustable chest strap and luggage strap ensure comfortable carrying while the anti-theft back pocket provides added security. Made of durable and water-resistant materials, this backpack is built to withstand the rigors of travel. Additionally, it features an external USB port for convenient charging on the go.

Pros:

• Versatile with large capacity
• Included packing cubes for better organization
• Comfortable carrying with adjustable straps
• Secure storage with an anti-theft back pocket
• Convenient USB port for device charging

Cons:

• Requires own battery bank for USB charging

4) KAKA Durable and Convertible Travel Backpack, 35L ($51.99)

You’ll be amazed by the durability and versatility of the KAKA Durable and Convertible Travel Backpack, perfect for all your adventures. This backpack is made with high-quality terylene oxford fabric, ensuring that it is anti-theft, water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and ready to withstand any challenge you may encounter.

The strap features high-density soft decompression foam for ultimate comfort while carrying. With a total of 10 pockets including a main zipped pocket, front zipped pockets, side mesh pocket, small strap pockets, and pockets within the large front zip pocket, you’ll have plenty of space to organize all your belongings.

The KAKA Travel Backpack also provides separate compartments for your computer, iPad, A4 files, wallet, clothes, power bank, and more. Its multifunctional design allows it to be used as a backpack, duffle bag, or shoulder bag depending on your preference. And the comfortable back and shoulder straps are made from elastic and breathable materials to ensure maximum comfort during long trips.

Pros:

• Durable and resistant to damage
• Versatile design with multiple carrying options
• Ample space and organization for equipment and personal items

Cons:

• May be too bulky for some users’ preferences
• Limited color options available

5) POWAITER Large Carry-On Travel Backpack, 40L ($45.99)

Get ready for your next adventure with the POWAITER Large Carry-On Travel Backpack, offering a spacious 40L capacity and a sleek design that will have you traveling in style. This airline-approved backpack is perfect for international travel, fitting in both overhead compartments and under seats.

Its lay-flat design allows for easy scanning at checkpoints, saving you time and hassle. With multiple compartments, including a separate laptop compartment for up to 17-inch laptops, as well as mesh and PVC wet pockets for small items, this backpack offers excellent organization options. The hidden anti-theft pocket on the back provides added security for your valuables.

Pros:

• Airline approved
• Lay-flat design for easy scanning at checkpoints
• Hidden anti-theft pocket on the back

Cons:

• Bag may appear larger than expected
• Slightly heavy
• Extra zipper bags may not be useful for everyone

6) TOTWO Expandable Travel Backpack, 45L ($41.98)

Experience the ultimate in convenience and style with the TOTWO Expandable Travel Backpack, offering a spacious 45L capacity and versatile design for all your travel needs. This backpack is perfect for international travel, providing you with ample space to carry everything you need while still being compact enough to fit as a carry-on. The expandable function allows you to increase the capacity when needed, making it ideal for longer trips or if you plan on bringing back souvenirs.

The TOTWO Expandable Travel Backpack features multiple compartments and pockets, allowing for easy organization of your belongings. The separate shoe compartment is a great feature for keeping your dirty shoes away from your clean clothes or other items. With its TSA airline-approved design, you can breeze through security checkpoints without any hassle.

Made of lightweight waterproof nylon material, this backpack is both durable and water-resistant, ensuring that your belongings stay safe and dry even in wet conditions. The foam padding on the back and shoulder straps provide added comfort during long journeys, reducing stress on your body.

One of the standout features of this backpack is the built-in USB charging port (power bank not included). You can conveniently charge your devices while on the go without having to search for an outlet.

Pros:

• Spacious 45L capacity
• Versatile design suitable for various types of travel
• Multiple compartments and pockets for easy organization
• Separate shoe compartment
• USB charging port for convenient device charging on the go

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with the zipper and straps ripping
• No option to hide or store the straps for more convenient carrying

7) Asenlin Multi-Functional Carry-On Backpack, 40L ($44.98)

Experience unparalleled convenience and exceptional versatility with the Asenlin Multi-Functional Carry-On Backpack, a 40L travel companion that takes your journey to new heights effortlessly. Made from water-resistant high-quality polyester Oxford cloth, this backpack is designed for durability and reliability. Its square shape and included packing cubes allow you to fit more clothes than anticipated, while its lightweight material reduces the total weight you carry while traveling.

The Asenlin backpack offers a range of features that make it perfect for various travel purposes. It comes with three custom-made storage bags for improved organization, a special pocket for a 17-inch laptop, and built-in elastic bands to keep your clothes from falling out. The portable zipper opening allows for quick airport security checks, and the explosion-proof zipper ensures the safety of your belongings. Additionally, this backpack can be fixed on a trunk pole or carried by hand.

Pros:

• Square shape and packing cubes hold more clothes than expected
• Lightweight material reduces overall weight when traveling
• Suitable for various types of travel: carry-on, weekend trips, cross-border tourism

Cons:

• May not be suitable for serious outdoor activities
• Interior zip-up clothing bag organizers are slightly cheaply made
• Some users find the shoulder straps could be more comfortable

8) Rinlist Anti Theft Carry-On Travel Backpack, 42.5L ($39.77)

Step up your travel game with the Rinlist Anti Theft Carry-On Travel Backpack, a spacious and secure companion that takes your journey to the next level. This backpack is designed with the modern traveler in mind, offering a flight-approved size that fits easily in luggage racks or under seats. It features two-way zippers for added security and multiple zippered pockets for convenient organization. The backpack also includes two free toiletry bags for easy storage of personal items.

The Rinlist Travel Backpack boasts a range of useful features, including a front pocket, waterproof section, main compartment, separate laptop compartment, and anti-theft pocket on the back. A mesh slip-in pocket with elastic closure on the left side provides easy access to a water bottle or umbrella. Made from densely woven polyester, this backpack is built to last and can be easily wiped clean.

With adjustable straps, a thickened padded back panel, and bartack sewing for superior comfort and longevity, this backpack ensures extended comfort during your travels. Also, the side carry handle allows for transformation into a handbag when needed.

Pros:

• Compact design fits easily in luggage racks or under seats
• Two-way zippers provide added security
• Large storage capacity with multiple zippered pockets
• Includes two free toiletry bags

Cons:

• Clip for one of the straps may slip off but can be easily fixed with a D ring
• Bulky padding, but still comfortable to wear
• May not fit under the seat during international flights

9) Dinictis Large Carry-On Travel Backpack, 40L ($39.99)

Gear up for your next adventure with the versatile Dinictis 40L Travel Laptop Backpack. Whether you’re traveling internationally or going on a weekend trip, this backpack has got you covered. With its spacious 40-liter capacity, you can easily fit all your essentials and more. The backpack is designed to be a carry-on, so you don’t have to worry about checking it in at the airport.

One of the standout features of the Dinictis backpack is its hidden shoulder straps, which make it easy to carry or lift. It also has a luggage pull rod strap for even easier travel. The main handle and side handle design allow for lifting from multiple angles, making it convenient in any situation.

Inside the backpack, there is a dedicated compartment with protective foam padding for up to a 17-inch laptop. You’ll also find multiple compartments for organized storage of your belongings. The main compartment even includes a wet bag for travel toiletries or waterproof items.

Made from durable and waterproof materials, including an explosion-proof SBS zipper, this backpack is built to last. The improved materials and reinforced stitching compared to previous models ensure that it can withstand rough handling during your travels.

Pros:

• Versatile use for various types of travel
• Hidden shoulder straps and luggage pull rod straps for easy carrying and lifting
• Dedicated laptop compartment with protective padding
• Durable and waterproof materials

Cons:

• Some users may find the backpack too large for everyday use
• Limited color options available
• May not fit under smaller airplane seats

10) HOMIEE Extra Large Travel Backpack, 50L ($55.99)

Go on your next adventure with the spacious and versatile HOMIEE Extra Large Travel Backpack, offering a whopping 50 liters of storage capacity. This backpack is designed with the modern traveler in mind, allowing you to pack everything you need for your trip without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

The HOMIEE Extra Large Travel Backpack features multiple compartments and pockets, providing ample space for all your belongings. The front compartment allows quick access to items you need on the go, while the second pocket helps keep small items organized. The main pocket can hold enough gear for 3-7 days of travel, making it perfect for longer trips.

One of the standout features of this backpack is its wet and dry separation design. The main compartment is designed with separate sections for wet and dry items, keeping your belongings clean and organized. Additionally, the backpack opens 180 degrees for easy loading and unloading, making it a breeze to retrieve items when you need them.

Made from waterproof durable fabric with smooth metal zippers, this backpack is built to last. It also offers added protection for your laptop with its high-quality anti-shock pads. The S-shaped shoulder strap and thickened sponge design ensure comfort even during long hours of wear.

Pros:

• Multiple compartments and pockets for organization
• Wet and dry separation design
• Durable construction with waterproof fabric and smooth zippers
• Comfortable to wear with an S-shaped shoulder strap and thickened sponge design

Cons:

• Straps are not well-padded for full packing comfort
• Fully expanded main compartment makes the backpack unwieldy
• May not fit smaller commuter planes’ overhead bins

11) BAGSMART Expandable with Packing Cubes, 40L ($39.99)

Experience the ultimate convenience and organization with the BAGSMART Expandable Backpack, designed to effortlessly simplify your packing and maximize your travel experience. This backpack is perfect for all your travel needs, whether it’s a weekend trip, business travel, hiking adventure, or camping excursion. With its expandable design, you can easily adjust the storage space from 25L to 40L to accommodate all your belongings. The built-in elastic band allows you to compress clothing and maximize storage space.

The backpack features a lie-flat opening design that allows for quick security checks at the airport. It also meets size requirements for most major airlines, fitting in both overhead compartments and under the seat. Made of water-resistant polyester material, this backpack offers protection in unexpected weather conditions.

With lots of storage areas within the backpack, including two clothes storage bags and one shoe bag for convenient packing, you can easily organize all your essentials. The comfortable airflow back design with thick and soft padding ensures maximum comfort during long journeys. The adjustable chest buckle makes hiking easier by providing extra support.

Pros:

• Expandable design with adjustable storage space
• Comes with additional clothes storage bags and shoe bag
• Comfortable airflow back design with thick padding

Cons:

• None 

12) coofay Compact Carry-On Backpack, 25L ($36.99)

Now let’s explore the coofay Compact Carry-On Backpack, a fantastic option for international travel. This backpack is designed with convenience and functionality in mind, making it an excellent choice for your next adventure. With its compact size and lightweight construction, this backpack is perfect for carrying on board during your travels.

The coofay Compact Carry-On Backpack offers a spacious main compartment with a separate laptop compartment that can accommodate up to a 15.6-inch laptop. It also features a daily clothes pocket, ideal for storing several pieces of clothing, as well as stationery such as books.

One notable feature of this backpack is the separate shoe compartment and wet pocket. You can keep your shoes or slippers organized and separated from your other belongings, while the waterproof wet pocket allows you to store wet items during your hotel stay.

Additionally, this backpack comes equipped with a USB charging port design. Simply connect your power bank inside the bag and conveniently charge your phone or iPad while on the go.

Pros:

• Compact size suitable for carry-on luggage
• Separate compartments for laptops, shoes, and wet items
• USB charging port for convenient device charging

Cons:

• May not fit larger laptops over 15.6 inches
• Limited color options available

13) Beraliy Large Carry-On Travel Backpack, 40L ($42.49)

Designed with the frequent traveler in mind, the Beraliy Large Carry-On Travel Backpack offers a spacious 40L capacity, multiple compartments for easy organization, and a durable water-resistant fabric to withstand any adventure. This backpack is perfect for international travel as it meets the carry-on requirements of most airlines and can be placed on top or under the seat as a personal item.

The 180-degree zipper closure allows for quick security checks, while the padded laptop compartment fits up to a 17.3-inch laptop. With its wet bag, front zipper pockets, mesh pocket for water bottles and umbrellas, and back zipper anti-theft pocket for valuables, this backpack provides ample storage options.

The Beraliy Large Carry-On Travel Backpack also features a trolley sleeve design for hands-free transportation and a USB charging and headphone port design for convenience on the go. It comes with additional storage bags for toiletries or cosmetics, making it versatile for outdoor activities, college, camping, hiking, or business trips. This backpack is an ideal gift for travel enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Meets carry-on requirements of most airlines
• Multiple compartments for easy organization
• Padded laptop compartment

Cons:

• Initial strong odor that dissipates with airing out
• Stains easily
• No ID card included inside the bag

14) BANGE Multi-Function Travel Backpack, 40L ($59.35)

Embark on your next adventure with the versatile and reliable BANGE Multi-Function Travel Backpack, offering a spacious 40L capacity and innovative features that will leave you feeling confident and prepared. This backpack is designed with the modern traveler in mind, meeting airline requirements for carry-on baggage and fitting easily in overhead compartments or under airline seats.

The tri-modular main compartment includes three mesh-enclosed soft modules, with the largest module perfect for clothing and the medium module ideal for toiletries and accessories. The water-resistant compartments provide added protection for your belongings, while the multiple pockets ensure optimal organization.

The backpack also features a flexible side pouch for a water bottle, as well as a middle pocket with computer and tablet compartments. For added convenience, it comes with a sturdy tote with hand straps and a hidden breathable shoulder strap. However, some customers have noted that the laptop divider lacks padding at the bottom, which could be improved.

Pros:

• Spacious 40L capacity
• Versatile modular design
• Convenient side pouch for water bottle

Cons:

• Lack of padding in the laptop divider

15) YOREPEK Extra Large Travel Backpack, 50L ($33.99)

Experience the ultimate in storage and organization with the YOREPEK Extra Large Travel Backpack, offering an impressive 50L capacity and a multitude of compartments for all your travel essentials. This backpack is designed to meet your every need, whether you’re embarking on a short weekend getaway or a long international trip.

With its spacious main compartment and separate laptop compartment, you can easily pack clothes, electronics, toiletries, and more. The front compartment features small pockets, pen pockets, and a keychain design for easy access to your smaller items. Additionally, there are 10+ pockets throughout the backpack, including side mesh pockets for water bottles and umbrellas.

The YOREPEK Travel Backpack is not only incredibly functional but also built to last. Made of water-resistant polyester fabric with a high-density nylon lining for tear resistance, this backpack can withstand even the toughest travel conditions. The heavy-duty metal zippers ensure durability while the sturdy handle with steel cable allows for easy portability. The comfortable padded back design and ventilated shoulder straps provide added comfort during those long journeys.

Pros:

• Ample storage space for long trips
• Durable construction that can withstand tough travel conditions
• Comfortable to wear during extended periods of use

Cons:

• Straps may be uncomfortable for smaller frames
• Limited additional space when deep pockets are filled

Conclusion

So there you have it, the best carry-on backpacks for international travel on a budget. With options ranging from 25L to 50L, there is a size that suits everyone’s needs. Whether you prefer a lightweight design or one with extra packing cubes for organization, these backpacks have got you covered.

The durable materials and convertible features ensure that your bag will last through all your adventures. So, grab one of these amazing backpacks and get ready to explore the world hassle-free!

As you plan your next trip, consider booking your hotel, flight, rental car, and other travel essentials with Giving Getaway. Every completed booking earns Giving Getaway a commission, 50% of which will be used to organize charity events like the 2021 Christmas gift drive for kids and teenagers in a children’s home in Montenegro.

So not only will you be experiencing the trip of a lifetime, but you’ll also be contributing to a great cause. Start planning your trip now and make a difference with Giving Getaway!