9 Best Carry-On Backpacks for Travel and Commuting

Are you looking for an all-in-one backpack to carry for both your daily work commuting and your travel adventures?

Having a versatile and comfortable cabin-sized backpack is extremely useful for all travellers, from nomads needing to carry a laptop and other essential electronics, to hikers looking to explore both urban and natural landscapes. 

Not to mention, having a light and durable EDC backpack will allow you to travel light, saving you some money in both additional gear and airline fees!

To help you find your way through the thousands of choices available on the market, we’ve narrowed down our list to 9 amazing backpacks that are the perfect choice for both everyday carry, trekking and travelling. 

Let’s get started.

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The North Face Jester

© The North Face

Volume: 28L

Dimensions: 11"x 8.25" x 18.13" ∙ 27.9 x 21 x 46.1cm

Weight: 1 lb 10 oz ∙ 740g

Separate laptop compartment: No

Maximum laptop size: 16"

With an affordable price tag, a large main compartment and a lightweight, comfortable build, The North Face Jester checks most boxes for what you should be looking for in an EDC and travel backpack!

When it comes to organisation, the Jester has a total volume of 28 liters, giving it plenty of storage space for both your everyday work gear and your travel essentials. The large main compartment also includes a laptop pocket, and can fit a device up to 15”.

A secondary compartment features handy additional pockets on the inside for storing small items such as chargers and power banks. There are also two mesh water bottle pockets on each side of the pack; these are always useful to store small items and snacks.

For stashing jackets and other items of clothing you might need on the fly, the Jester has adjustable crossed bungie cords on the front. To be honest, we rarely find ourselves using these, but they have come in handy at times when we didn’t feel like carrying our jackets and there was no space to store them in the bags.

Even when fully loaded, this pack is extremely comfortable to carry for long periods of time, thanks mainly to the large, padded shoulder straps, and will hold up fine in most weather conditions due to the breathable back panel and the water resistant DWR finish. The polyester fabric, however, is fairly standard in terms of durability, so you shouldn’t beat this pack around too much. 

All in all, the Jester is an incredibly versatile backpack that you’ll have no problem using both in the city and in the outdoors. It doesn’t top the charts in terms of durability, but the large storage and the light, comfortable construction make it a great choice for both travellers and commuters. 

Osprey Nebula

© Osprey

Volume: 32L

Dimensions: 11.42” x 12.2” x 19.29” ∙ 29 x 31 x 49cm

Weight: 2.1 lb ∙ 961g

Separate laptop compartment: Yes

Maximum laptop size: 16"

The Osprey Nebula is a high-end backpack that offers superior carrying comfort, huge storage and plenty of organisation space, all at a very reasonable weight and price point. It might edge a little on the large side for day to day activities, but it really shines as a travel and outdoor pack. 

The bag’s 32 liter volume is divided between a large main compartment and a secondary pocket, with additional zippered and mesh pouches for storing small items and valuables, giving you plenty of space to organise both your travel items and your EDC gear.

In addition, a full clamshell laptop compartment on the back can fit a device up to 16”, with even more storage space for tablets, chargers and other essential electronic items you might need during your trip. 

The Nebula also has a mesh pocket on the front to store jackets and other items so that they may be accessible on the go. We find this more practical to use than the bungie cord system you might find on other packs, although it is more liable to get snagged and ripped when stored under seats, or on branches when on the trail. 

This backpack is ideal for any climate and terrain, and the tough nylon fabric has a waterproof DWR finish for extra water resistance. The padded shoulder straps feature a mesh that, combined with the classic Osprey AirScape back panel system, make the Nebula breathable and comfortable to carry for long periods of time, even in hot weather.

While it might be a little on the large side for some, the tough construction, along with the breathable and comfortable carry system, make the Osprey Nebula a fantastic backpack to use for both EDC and travelling, and one of the best backpacks available on the market!

Gregory Rhune 22

© Gregory

Volume: 22L

Dimensions: 19.29 x 12.4 x 3.15” ∙ 48 x 33 x 19cm

Weight: 2.05 lb ∙ 880g

Separate laptop compartment: No

Maximum laptop size: 15”

For anyone looking for compact and minimalist backpack for daily activities and ultralight travel, the Gregory Rhune 22 is an amazing choice.

The small volume will likely not be sufficient for most people to travel for more than a few days, but if you can manage we promise you’re going to love this pack!

The Rhune’s main compartment is divided in two sections, with one padded and made to fit a laptop with a maximum size of 15”, along with a tablet. The main compartment also has a zippered mesh pocket that comes in handy for storing small items such as cables, chargers and notebooks. A secondary compartment with extra zippered pockets provides extra organisation space, while two stash pockets on the top and side of the bag are perfect to stow keys and other small valuables.

Finally, a small pocket on the shoulder strap allows you to quickly access small items, such as earbuds and snacks; this pocket is a little on the small side and we don’ find it extremely useful, but it makes for a nice addition to the already well organised storage. 

The Gregory Rhune 22 is also extremely comfortable; the shoulder straps are well padded and breathable, and the back panel is completely foamless to provide maximum breathability when hiking or travelling in hot climates. In addition, the Rhune’s fabric is made of 100% recycled ripstop polyester with a DWR waterproof finish, making it an ideal choice for prolonged use in the outdoors. 

Thanks to the small volume, the Rhune is a discreet and minimalist option for pretty much any activity, from your daily commute to ultralight travel. You definitely will be forced to adapt your packing methods when using this bag, but it’s worth it for the incredible level of quality and design it offers!

Patagonia Refugio 30L

© Patagonia

Volume: 30L

Dimensions: 19" x 12" x 6.5" ∙ 48.2 x 30.5 x 16.5cm

Weight: 1 lbs 12 oz ∙ 795g

Separate laptop compartment: Yes

Maximum laptop size: 15”

If we could only choose one bag to bring for all of our activities and travels, we would probably pick the Patagonia Refugio 30L.

This incredibly versatile pack offers large 30 liter storage capacity, a durable build, and is made in Fair Trade Certified factories out of 100% recycled fabrics. Whether you’re walking to the office or through the jungle, you can be sure the Refugio will be the right choice.

The pack’s main compartment is spacious but lacks any additional pockets, which is practical as it leaves more space for fitting bulky items such as packing cubes. A smaller, secondary pocket is perfect for storing smaller items, such as snacks and power banks.

A separate laptop compartment with a removable protection sleeve can fit a device up to 15”, with extra pockets and zippers to fit tablets and chargers. We love the addition of an integrated laptop sleeve, as it also works perfectly to safely store important documents such as passport copies, plane tickets and hotel reservations.

Finally, the Refugio has two elastic bottle pockets, one on each side. These also work well to keep small items within hand’s reach, without having to go fish them out of the bag. 

This is one of the most comfortable backpacks we’ve ever used. The shoulder straps are well formed and padded, and the back panel is airy and breathable.

Something that’s interesting to point out is that the Refugio has load lifters, which is something that we rarely ever see on backpacks that are not specifically made for trekking; these straps are made to take weight off the shoulders, and are essential to make the pack more comfortable when carrying heavy loads.

This addition, along with the Refugio’s durable DWR water-repellant fabric, makes it one of the best EDC bags to use for long excursions in the outdoors.

With an affordable price tag and a durable, climate-friendly build, the Patagonia Refugio 30l is an incredibly versatile pack that can be used for any activity, such as hiking, travelling or simply for a day at the office. It is one of our all-time favourites, and we really recommend checking it out!

The North Face Surge

© The North Face

Volume: 31L

Dimensions: 12" x 7" x 20" ∙ 30.5 x 17.8 x 50.8cm

Weight: 2 lbs 12 oz ∙ 1260g

Separate laptop compartment: Yes

Maximum laptop size: 15"

With multiple pockets for optimised storage, a large volume and an impressively durable build, The North Face Surge is a large pack that is perfect for travelling and for short hikes, although for some it might be too bulky and heavy.

The storage space on the Surge is amazing; the main compartment is wide but lacks any additional pockets, allowing you to easily stack packing cubes without anything getting in the way. A secondary compartment on the front offers additional padded and zippered pockets for storing smaller items, such as chargers, tablets and documents.

A separate laptop compartment with an anti-theft zipper can fit a device with a maximum size of 15”. The Surge also has two water bottle stash pockets on each side that are perfect for storing small essentials such as snacks and earbuds.

Finally, as if it wasn’t enough, three zippered pockets on the front of the bag allow for even more storage; however, the two main ones are more easily accessible, so we wouldn’t recommend using these to store any valuables. The third is concealed beneath a flap, and is pretty hard to notice if you don’t know its there, making it practical to store small valuables.

When it comes to carrying comfort, the Surge does not disappoint; despite the heavy weight, the large, padded shoulder strap and the well designed, breathable back panel make it one of the most ergonomic backpacks on our list. This is helped as well by the small integrated belt, which can help you managed heavier load by distributing the weight more efficiently.

In terms of durability, the Surge will easily handle both long travels and day hikes in the outdoors, as it is made of a durable ripstop nylon fabric with a water-resistant DWR finish that can take a serious beating. 

This backpack is not lightweight or compact, and for many it will be too big to use comfortably for EDC. With that said, the combination of large volume, practical organisation and a durable construction make it feel ready for the road. Whether it’s by plane, train or on foot, you can be sure the Surge will stick with you every step of the way.

Dakine Urbn Mission 23l

© Dakine

Volume: 23L

Dimensions: 18,5 x 12 x 10,5" ∙ 47 x 30 x 27cm

Weight: 1.12 lb ∙ 508g

Separate laptop compartment: Yes

Maximum laptop size: 17"

Despite being one of the smallest backpacks on our list the Dakine Urbn Mission 23L has been our go-to bag for the last couple of years, and has gone with us on short weekend trips, months long adventures overseas and hikes in the outdoors.

In terms of storage, this bag will be perfect for shorter trips and ultralight packers, as it is pretty limited with storage. With that said, the main compartment can easily fit at least two large packing cubes and a toiletry bag, while the smaller secondary compartment leaves enough space for smaller items.

The huge separate laptop compartment is the biggest on our list, despite the small size of the bag, and can fit up to 17”. A zippered pocket on the front is also perfect to store small notebooks and documents. Two large velcro straps on the front of the bag allow you to hang a jacket or other items of clothing you might need on the go, while several hidden loops can be used to attach carabineers. This comes in handy especially to lock the zippers, and keep your valuables safe from pickpockets.

Finally, the Urbn Mission also has a padded glasses pocket on the top, although it usually get compressed when the bag is very full so we don’t recommend using it for fragile items. It does, however, work well to store earphones and other small essentials. 

Despite the simple construction, the Dakine Urbn Mission 23l is incredibly comfortable to carry over long distances, no matter the weather.

It remains breathable even in tropical conditions, and the large padded straps can support even a heavy load while minimising discomfort. Since it is designed as a skateboard pack, the Urbn Mission is extremely durable and made to take repeated falls on asphalt, so it will hold just fine in the outdoors and during long trips. The tough nylon fabric is also treated with a DWR finish, giving it a good level of water resistance. 

From daily activities such as going to the gym or the supermarket, to spending several months on the road, the Dakine Urbn Mission 23l gets the most usage out of all our packs.

It’s light, discreet, versatile and tough as nails, and really is the ultimate EDC travel bag!

Fjällräven Skule 28

© Ted Weirum

Volume: 23L

Dimensions: 19.6 x 16 x 7" ∙ 50 x 41 x 18 cm

Weight: 1.12 lb ∙ 750g

Separate laptop compartment: No

Maximum laptop size: 15”

The Fjallraven Skule 28 is a lightweight, classy backpack with a large volume. Despite the no-frills design, it’s a great choice for every day carry, as well as for short hikes and travelling. 

The Skule’s main compartment is large, and takes up most of the bag’s 28 liters of storage. It is divided by an integrated laptop sleeve, which can fit a device up to 15”; alternatively, the laptop compartment can also be used to store a water bladder.

The secondary compartment has a zippered pocket, with two additional mesh pockets for extra storage. A smaller, third compartment on the top of the bag is perfect for storing glasses, earbuds, keys and other small items but, like with the Dakine Urbn 23l, this pocket will probably get compressed when the bag is completely filled. 

The Skule 28 also has crossing bungie cords on the front that are perfect for stashing a jacket for easy access. Plus, there are extra loops that will allow you to attach carabineers to the outside of the pack. 

Even over long distances, this backpack is extremely comfortable to carry. The shoulder straps are thick and padded, and will offer great support even with a fully loaded pack.

The back is well ventilated, and remains pretty breathable even in humid conditions. The Skule is also durable, and you won’t have any issues going on day hikes with this pack, as the tough Cordura fabric is made out of recycled polyester with a DWR finish for extra water resistance.

The Fjallraven Skule 28 is perfect for anyone looking for a simple but practical backpack to use for any occasion. It’s lightweight, made of durable fabric and comes with an affordable price tag, and it just looks so classy!

Patagonia Black Hole 25l

© Patagonia

Volume: 25L

Dimensions: 18.8" x 11" x 5.9" ∙ 47,7 x 30 x 14,9cm

Weight: 1.12 lb ∙ 640g

Separate laptop compartment: No

Maximum laptop size: 15"

The Patagonia Black Hole 25L is one of the most awesome backpacks we have ever tried. Everything about it, from the ultra tough fabric to the zippered lid opening and the roomy storage works in making this an incredibly practical pack for pretty much any occasion. 

The Black Hole’s main compartment takes up most of the 25 liters of volume, and includes a 15” laptop sleeve along with a pretty large zippered mesh pocket to store small items such as keys and a wallet. Another large pocket on the front of the bag offers plenty of additional space, and is great to stash chargers and cables.

Finally, another large pocket on the top of the lid provides even more storage. Oh, and there are two elastic mesh water bottle pockets on each side. And a band in between the shoulder straps to allow you to secure it on top of your luggage. And there are several loops to attach carabineers. Ok, that should be it. 

In terms of comfort, the Black Hole 25l is a dream to carry around.

This pack is very light for its size, and the excellent design of the shoulder straps and the back panel make it breathable and comfortable to carry over any terrain for long periods of time.

Plus, the Black Hole is the most durable pack on our list, made of 100% recycled polyester ripstop fabric (made in Fair Trade Certified factories like the Refugio) with a TPU finish that gives it superior weather and wear resistance. You’ll have absolutely no issue rocking this pack on challenging trails, as well as using it for travelling and simple day to day activities. 

The Patagonia Black Hole 25l is an incredibly well designed pack. It’s definitely a top choice for anyone looking for an all-in-one pack for travelling, hiking and commuting, and the tough construction will ensure it remains with you for a very long time. 

The North Face Borealis

© The North Face

Volume: 28L

Dimensions: 12" x 6.5" x 19.5" ∙ 30.5 x 16.5 x 49.5cm

Weight: 2 lbs 5 oz ∙ 1050g

Separate laptop compartment: Yes

Maximum laptop size: 15”

If you’re worried The North Face Surge might be too large for you, then you might want to check out the Borealis. This classic backpack offers essentially the same characteristics as the larger version, but with a reduced weight, less storage space and a sleeker design. 

In terms of storage, the Borealis has a large main compartment without additional pockets that is perfect for stashing packing cubes. The laptop compartment and the handy anti-theft system are the same as the Surge, so the Borealis can fit a device up to 15”.

The secondary compartment offers a multitude of padded and zippered pockets to store notebooks, cables, chargers and other items, with one larger pocket made to fit a tablet. Unlike the Surge, the Borealis lacks the two additional pockets on the front, instead having crossed bungie cords, which are perfect for hanging jackets while on the move. It does, however, have the same hidden front pocket, which is very handy for stashing small valuables.

The Borealis is a very comfortable backpack, even though it is still pretty heavy. The large padded straps and the ventilated back offer an amazing level of support, and you won’t have any trouble going long distances with this pack.

In addition, the Borealis is made of durable recycled ripstop nylon with a DWR water-repellant finish, making it suitable for prolonged use in the outdoors. Even more, the pack comes with a small integrated belt like you would find on the Surge, which will allow it do distribute weight more evenly and make it more comfortable when heavily loaded.

The Borealis also comes in an alternative version called the Recon; this bag is the same in every aspect, except for the fact is has a mesh pocket for storage instead of the bungie cords. 

There is a reason this bag is one of the most popular options for both EDC and travelling. The only disadvantage is the weight, but the durable build, comfortable carry and intuitive storage space make it a must for anyone looking for a versatile and practical backpack.

And there you have it, 9 amazing backpacks that will be perfect for any activity, whether you’re commuting to work or travelling the world!

Which backpack do you like to travel with, and which one will you choose for your next adventure? 

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