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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.

(limited colors)

You save $47 (25%)

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—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

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

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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.

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The 12 Best Travel Purses of 2024

P lanning summer travels includes determining what purse works best for your itinerary. If you're going abroad, you may want anti-theft features and compartments with space for glasses, passports, sunscreen and more – but you can also find plenty of extras like built-in wallets, hidden pockets and key ring attachments. There's a wide range of different styles on the market to suit your travel purse needs.

U.S. News editors tapped travel experts for their top picks and researched dozens of review sites, including Amazon, online retailers, travel industry review sites and more, to come up with this selection of the best travel purses.

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

Best Overall: TUMI Voyageur Tyler Crossbody

What sets it apart: This sleek design blends fashion with function. The Tyler Crossbody by TUMI has multiple organizational features, including a spacious main compartment for a passport, camera and other personal essentials; a U-shaped front pocket with a leather card pocket and key leash; two front zippered pockets; and a back slip pocket. The upscale nylon construction is durable yet polished and it can be spot cleaned for when those spills happen. What's more, the detachable leather charm can be monogrammed.

Expert review: "This is one of my go-to handbags for any trip – especially European vacations," says Rachael Hood , a senior travel editor at U.S. News. "The pockets and separate compartment keep everything organized and quick to find. The nylon construction has a silky and upscale feel, and the overall design is versatile for travel or daily use."

Price: $295 or less

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Best Crossbody: Lug Ranger 2 Crossbody Bag

Full of organizational details, the Lug Ranger 2 has multiple compartments to keep essentials neatly stowed. The front zippered compartment has a built-in wallet with RFID protection and a key leash. Just above that, you'll find a magnetic-closure slip pocket on the front of the bag for your cellphone, to make answering a call or taking a selfie easy. The main internal compartment can fit your camera, snacks and personal essentials. There are two slip pockets for sunglasses or cords, plus a clear zippered pocket for sunscreen, lotion or other small liquids. The back zippered compartment has two pen slots and is ideal for wipes, a passport or other travel-related items.

Expert review: "I use this bag at least weekly, and I really like this design for weekend road trips," says Hood. "I have multiple colors and prints that I like to switch out for seasonality, and the wipeable and water-repellent material is forgiving, whether it's raining, snowing or I spill my latte."

Price: $80 or less

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Best for Europe: Minooy Eirene Crossbody Bag

What sets it apart: When traveling abroad, versatility is key, and this chic design by Minooy offers just that. Constructed of high-quality full-grain leather in a choice of four classic colors, this multicompartment travel purse is packed with details. The separate main zippered pocket keeps everything from lipstick to a phone cord in its place. The crossbody bag offers understated luxury, the RFID-blocking internal compartment has six card slots, and the outside zippered pocket can hold up to an iPhone 14 Pro Max or Galaxy S22 Ultra.

Expert review: Marisa Méndez , senior travel editor at U.S. News, adores this purse. "I love how soft the leather is on this bag as well as all of the pockets and loops for organization," says Méndez. "My favorite feature is that the entire bag is RFID-blocking so I don't need to worry about carrying a wallet; I can just use the card slots in the bag."

Price: $159 or less

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Best Anti-Theft: Travelon Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

What sets it apart: Protecting your valuables is always important, but when you're traveling it's even more vital. This bag features Travelon's patented five-point anti-theft system, which includes slash-resistant handles and mesh panels within the walls of the bag. The bag also offers RFID protection, a locked main compartment, and the ability to fasten the bag to a chair or post to deter a thief in a restaurant, train station or airport.

Travelers appreciate: The lightweight construction of the bag, combined with the theft-proof security features and multiple pockets, makes this a traveler favorite. Owners of this bag say it holds all of your travel essentials from passports to sunglasses, and that it holds up well after years of use.

Price: $70 or less

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Best Shoulder Bag: Vera Bradley Glenna Satchel

What sets it apart: Machine-washable and available in an array of eye-catching prints to suit your style, the Glenna Satchel is a large shoulder bag ideal for city adventures, day trips, shore excursions and daily activities. The spacious main compartment has a zip pocket and three slips, along with room for a book, tablet, planner, phone and wallet. There are two exterior slip pockets to stow things like maps or handouts, and a hidden zip pocket on the outside as well to secure smaller items. For added options, the drawstring adjusts the size of the bag depending on your needs.

Travelers appreciate: Fans of this bag praise the functionality and the pretty print options of the satchel. Though, some do note that the straps could be longer.

Price: $110 or less

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Best Messenger Bag: Tory Burch Nylon Small Messenger

What sets it apart: Constructed with a 100% recycled nylon shell and trimmed in leather, this design gives major '90s vibes in all the best ways. The unstructured messenger bag is perfect for travel with an interior compartment for your wallet, phone, keys and more, plus an interior slit pocket and zippered pocket to keep valuables secured. The front exterior pocket of the bag zips, and the back slit pocket is ideal for your phone or items you want to reach quickly. Finished with a magnetic closure flap and a removable crossbody strap, this bag adds an element of style to your travel wardrobe.

Travelers appreciate: Lightweight, practical and functional are a few of the words bag owners use to describe this messenger bag. They say it works well for sightseeing, and that the bag can hold a lot without looking clunky or overstuffed.

Price: $248 or less

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Best Backpack Purse: CALPAK Luka Mini Backpack

What sets it apart : Designed with travel in mind, this mini backpack has a luggage trolley sleeve and matches the duffels and other items in the CALPAK Luka collection. You can put your tablet, wallet and other must-haves in the interior compartment; your cell phone and a travel umbrella in the exterior side pockets; your passport in the hidden back zippered pocket; and other items in the front zippered compartment. The bag's lining is water-resistant, the puffy exterior is soft and comfortable to carry, and the straps are adjustable to suit your needs.

Expert review: "The compact and functional design makes is possible to pack my iPad, reading material, a wallet and even a camera," says Hood. "Plus, I can coordinate my purse with other CALPAK Luka luggage items. The only downside is the two exterior pockets are a bit small, as they can't hold a water bottle."

Price: $72 or less

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Best Small Travel Purse: Lo & Sons The Waverly 2 Small

What sets it apart: For a compact design with adaptability, this Lo & Sons design checks all the boxes. This convertible style has a two-part strap to transform into a belt bag, crossbody, clutch, shoulder bag or wristlet with ease. The neatly organized interior compartment has space for your phone and essentials with a three-slot zippered pocket, an interior slip pocket, and an exterior card slot ideal for a room key or transit card. Offered in a choice of natural-grain nappa leather, scratch-resistant textured Saffiano leather or plant-based cactus leather, this style can easily go from day to night or boardroom to ballgame.

Travelers appreciate: Buyers of this bag really like the option to adjust the strap to suit the day's events. They compliment the quality construction and overall look, with many saying it's great for travel because it can easily fit into a duffel or backpack.

Price: $178 or less

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Best Packable: LeSportsac Deluxe Everyday Bag

What sets it apart: Made of recycled ripstop nylon, this lightweight and durable handbag can easily be packed into your suitcase and pulled out for use when you arrive at your destination. It lays flat when not full of your belongings. This roomy travel purse has plenty of space in its two main compartments for a wallet, water bottle, cell phone, on-the-go necessities and a few fun things you find along the way. The front has two exterior zippered pockets, and there's a back zippered pocket as well. With the adjustable crossbody strap, the bag can also be worn as a shoulder bag. What's more, LeSportsac continuously adds to the color and pattern choices in this classic bag with everything from beloved animated characters to florals or plaid.

Travelers appreciate: Handbag owners rave about the pockets, durability and color options for this style. Many note while it is great for travel, it's also ideal for everyday use with plenty of space for everything.

Price: $105 or less

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Best Belt Bag: Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

What sets it apart: Offered in a choice of neoprene or air mesh, this versatile option is U.S. News' top fanny pack pick . This hands-free belt bag has an adjustable belt, a small front zip pocket (a great spot to stash cash for tipping) and a back panel exterior credit card. The roomy main compartment comes equipped with an elastic loop, a key clip and a card pocket to keep things easy to find.

Travelers appreciate: Wearers of this belt bag like the quality construction, color options and the overall versatility of the design. They also compliment the fabrication and say it holds the essentials without being bulky.

Price: $95 or less

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Best Sling Bag: CLUCI Small Sling Bag for Women

What sets it apart: Available in a wide variety of colors, this hands-free crossbody bag is perfect for those on the go. The three zippered pockets are roomy enough for travel essentials like keys, sunglasses, lipstick, wallet and sunscreen. Place your ID and credit cards in the five interior card slots, so you can leave your wallet at home. The back pocket of this sling bag is ideal for keeping important items close to your body to prevent theft, and the adjustable strap makes it comfortable to carry.

Expert review: "My favorite travel purse is the vegan leather crossbody bag by CLUCI," says Sharael Kolberg , a U.S. News travel contributor. "Not only is it environmentally and animal-friendly, it's also stylish and easily fits my wallet, passport, reusable water bottle and snacks. Plus, the front pocket allows easy access to my smartphone."

Price: $25.99 or less

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Best Convertible: augustnoa mini noa

Compact and versatile, this sustainable style can be carried as a crossbody, an over-the-shoulder bag or a backpack. On the outside, there's a zippered front pocket ideal for a room key, transit card or lip gloss. The interior has a deep slip pocket, a mesh zippered pocket and a spacious compartment with room for a phone, a small point-and-shoot camera, hand sanitizer, a wallet, your passport and other essentials.

Expert review: "I love the carrying options of this bag, and the gold hardware really elevates the look of the purse. I find myself using this bag on walks and adventures where I want to bring my phone and camera," says Hood.

Price: $89 or less

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood has had a serious love for handbags her entire life. For everything from daily errands to global journeys, she has tried a variety of travel purse styles from an array of brands, discovering the good, the bad and the very best options. For this article, Hood used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research expertise to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Editor Picks: The Top Travel Accessories
• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Clear Stadium Bags
• The Best Personal Item Bags

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

7 Best Travel Toiletry Bags, Tested By Women's Health Experts

Travel pros approve, too!

Best Travel Toiletry Bags

Best Overall

Pavilia hanging toiletry bag.

Best Roll-Up Travel Toiletry Bag

Lululemon roll-up travel toiletries kit.

Best Durable Bag

Fjallraven kanken toiletry bag.

Some travel bags are smaller, with a simple interior, and others are larger with more pockets. What you decide to invest in comes down to how long you'll be traveling for and whether or not you like to travel light or heavy. Regardless of your preferences, just know that there are plenty of options out there for you. In fact, Women's Health editors tested and rounded up seven of their favorite picks to help you decide on the best one for you. Before you shop though, here are a few things to keep in mind.

What to consider

The goal is to find something that will fit all your personal care items without taking up a ton of space, being mindful that TSA rules will also limit the sizes of these products. "TSA’s 3-1-1 rule states that all liquids must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less and fit inside one clear, quart-sized, resealable bag," says travel expert and blogger at The Smart Travel Guide Peggy Carlaw. "The trick to packing a toiletry bag is decanting your own products into small containers or purchasing travel-sized containers." This hack will save you space while lowering your bag weight. Once you do this, choose a bag that's big enough to hold the amount of containers and makeup you're traveling with.

Finding a bag that fits within your budget is the priority. That said, certain materials are more travel-friendly than others. Carlaw recommends a bag made from either nylon or polyester. "These are long-lasting, lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to clean," she says. "Cotton and some other fabrics are not waterproof, hard to keep clean, and not sturdy enough to protect their contents," she adds.

Water-resistance

While this feature is optional, having a water-resistant bag will ensure that everything else in your suitcase will stay dry if any of your toiletries spill out or leak during travel. At the same time, if your luggage gets wet or clothes get damp, all the items in your toiletry bag (like powders, medications, and electronics) will stay dry. This is especially helpful if you're traveling somewhere where the humidity is high, Carlaw says.

How 'Women's Health' selected

For the past year, Women’s Health editors, including associate health and wellness editor Tianna Soto and lifestyle commerce editor Jasmine Gomez , tested the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated travel toiletry bags. Our team consulted one travel expert and evaluated bags based on size, fabric material, ease of use, and more to narrow down the seven best travel toiletry bags for a wide range of needs and preferences.

Below, check out the seven best travel toiletry bags, tested by Women's Health editors.

After testing several travel toiletry bags over the past few weeks, our best overall pick is this hanging toiletry bag from Pavilia. For starters, it hits all the callouts that our expert recommends—clear plastic pockets, a water-resistant shell, and polyester material.

The hook at the top makes it easy to see and access your items without having to take them all out, or having to dig through each pocket. Editors also like that this bag has a budget-friendly price of $24, which is a total steal compared to some of the more pricier options on this list.

Women's Health health editor Tianna Soto appreciates that this bag comes with eight pockets that fit all of her self-care products. For her, it makes organizing a breeze, and it folds up without taking up too much space in her luggage. However, she notes that if you over-pack it too often, there's a chance that the zipper can get stuck. Additionally, it might not be the best choice if you value your privacy while traveling with company. "If you’re sharing a hotel room with someone and don’t want everyone to see what you have in there, you may not love the clear pockets," she says.

Read more: Best Travel Coffee Mugs

If you swear by all things Lululemon, you'll be thrilled to know they have a toiletry bag that's perfect for your next trip. It comes with three main pockets that can be easily folded up. Unlike some other options on this list, this bag is closed using a security buckle, ensuring that your belongings won't fall out during travel.

WH lifestyle and commerce editor Jasmine Gomez is a big fan of this bag because of its waterproof-material and mesh pocket, which she says makes room for some items that need more breathability (think: makeup sponges and toothbrushes).

She also likes that it provides easy access to her products. "I love that it rolls out vertically with a hook at the top, making it easy to access what I need without having to dig through an entire bag," she says. One thing to keep in mind is that there isn't an added layer of protection for whatever is inside, aside from the pockets. So keeping this in your backpack or in a hardshell suitcase might be best.

When it comes to durability, this toiletry bag from Fjallraven is our top pick, especially if you're a frequent flyer. We like that the fabric feels sturdy, and it's on the thicker side, so it can easily stand up against frequent use or bumpy trips. The dark color makes any dirt or marks less noticeable, too. It comes with two spacious compartments that can fit anything from makeup to skincare or haircare. Because the pockets inside aren't clear like some of the other bags on this list, you might have to dig around in different sections to find what you're looking for, though.

Still, this option is well worth your dime, according to WH associate news editor Charlotte Walsh. "I typically have to pack two separate bags—one for my makeup and the other for shower products—but with this, I can fit it all in one!" she says. She also appreciates the waxed fabric liner inside, which serves as a barrier in case anything spills.

Victoria's Secret Travel Toiletry Bag

A personal favorite of WH beauty editors, this toiletry bag from Victoria's Secret has deep pockets that are perfect for those who prefer the perks of a roll-up bag with the structure of something more durable. It comes with two main compartments and one smaller one that sits closest to the hanging hook. While this bag isn't water-resistant, we appreciate that the clear pockets make it easy to find your belongings.

"It's easy to see everything that's in the bag without having to spread everything out on the sink and make a mess," says WH senior beauty editor Danielle Jackson. She adds that this bag eliminates the need to bring two toiletry bags with her since the pockets are extra spacious.

Mark & Graham Clear Coated Cosmetic Train Case

Feel like a splurge? You will adore this customizable toiletry bag from Mark & Graham. While this is the most expensive option on our round up, the variety of prints to choose from, in addition to its durability and deep double pockets, make it worth every penny.

Its rectangular shape allows for a smooth packing process, as it can easily fit into the corner of a small suitcase or duffel. It also has a handle on top that provides "easy access when you're digging around in your bag after a late-night or early-morning arrival," says WH features editor Currie Engel. "[The bag] makes me feel like an incredibly put-together person even on my most hectic and chaotic trips." If you're not shopping for yourself, this bag also makes for a great gift for your jet-setting bestie or family member.

Herschel Milan Toiletry Bag

The most stylish option on this list, this toiletry bag from Herschel is great for quick weekend getaways. It's on the smaller side and made from vegan leather. The bag comes with an expandable internal and rear storage sleeve, and it's available in six colors and two sizes. It's worth noting that while this bag is fashion-forward, it doesn't have clear pockets and isn't big enough to guarantee that all your travel must-haves can be stored away.

Ultimately, it will securely store whatever you do travel with, though. WH executive digital director Amanda Woerner, who has been using hers for years, is a fan of this bag for its overall quality. "Herschel toiletry bags hold a ton of makeup and skincare products, and despite the fact that various tinted moisturizers, face washes, and who knows what else, have spilled inside there for years, it's still in great shape," she says.

Beis The Cosmetic Pouch Set

Some people prefer to have one bag, while others don't mind two. Whether it be for organizational purposes or for having two bags to use individually, you can't go wrong with this matching set from Beis. These are not water-resistant nor do they have clear pockets, but editors like that they're compact enough to fit in small suitcases, and that you're essentially getting two bags for the price of one. Plus, they're a sleek and stylish option for travel.

"I love the matching neutral color, and the bigger size means that I can still squeeze in some of my full-size products," says Walsh. She notes that one downside to the rounded shape of the bags is that you lose some of the extra space that you may get from a square pouch.

Meet the experts

• Peggy Carlaw is a travel expert and blogger at The Smart Travel Guide .

Read more about the best travel gear

Best Gifts For Travelers | Best Makeup Bags | Best Travel Jewelry Cases | Best Carry-On Luggage | Best Travel Journals | Best Travel Pillows

Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.

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• Travel Products
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• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

These 10 Stylish Tote Bags Are Roomy Enough to Use As Carry-ons — and They Start at Just $19

Amazon, Samsonite, Béis, and Away have genius, lightweight bags that still fit under the plane seat.

Travel + Leisure / Pamela Jew

I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ll let you in on a secret: Tote bags are the best type of carry-on. Last summer, I bought a gold one in Cascais, Portugal, that changed the game, allowing me to carry an array of things like my laptop, change of clothing, and an umbrella in addition to my keys and wallet. On any given day, I still had space left for an impromptu supermarket run or an impulse buy.

Why ditch the bulky carry-on luggage for a tote? For starters, totes are easy to carry — it’s even in the name! Most are pretty lightweight with flat straps that stay put, so they’re comfortable, too. They hold a deceptive amount, and they’re usually pretty wide, so they distribute the weight evenly (your back will thank you). Style-wise, tote bags keep things casual yet cool. Add extras like compartments, expandability, anti-theft features, and waterproofing, and you’ve got the makings of a great piece of luggage that prevents you from overpacking, whether you’re flying for business or pleasure.

So in honor of my trusty tote bag, I’ve rounded up the best options out there right now starting at just $19, from a stylish Béis weekender to a flight-attendant approved, three-in-one Cyureay Convertible Tote Backpack . The standard Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) size for carry-on luggage is 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, and all 10 of the standout tote bags below obey the size limits yet hold an extraordinary amount of stuff securely. With carry-on totes this cool, your ticket may say “economy,” but your style will broadcast “frequent flier.”

Samsonite Foldaway Packable Tote Sling Bag

You expect a lot from Samsonite, and this tote bag delivers. It’s packed with pockets that can hold small electronics like tablets, e-readers, headphones, and earbuds. The main compartment comfortably holds in-flight essentials like a light sweater, sleep mask, and toiletries, plus any souvenirs you pick up along the way. The nylon-polyester tote has thick, sturdy straps so it’s comfy to carry, but here’s the best part: When not in use, the lightweight tote folds down to fit a compact pouch. Just stick it in your suitcase so it won’t get lost!

“It will hold a weekend’s worth of clothes for when you want to fly but don’t want to pay for a carry-on,” one fan wrote, adding that it “is a good, big size but the material is thin…so it doesn’t seem like a carry-on, though it can hold just as much stuff.”

To buy: amazon.com , $26

Fit + Fresh Metro Tote

This multitasker is business on one side and party on the other. The insulated half of this tote bag is lined with BPA-free PEVA, 5-mm thick interior padding and 300D polyester, so you can stash all your favorite snacks, hot foods, and cold drinks for a long flight ahead and keep them at the optimal temperature for a full day. The other side is spacious enough for a laptop, magazines, compression socks, an extra outfit, and whatever else you need to work or relax in-flight. The lightweight tote has heat-welded seams so it won’t leak, and it wipes clean easily.

“This tote is perfect for anyone who wants to keep a cool drink/sweaty water bottle away from important documents,” wrote one wise reviewer. “There are two completely separate compartments, so you won’t worry about spillage from the insulated side to the non-insulated side. It’s truly a game-changer.”

To buy: amazon.com , $21 (originally $30)

Béis The Mini Weekender

Color me smitten: It’s a tote bag that’s also a weekender! Imagine a tote bag you can use as your personal item, carry-on, and only piece of luggage: This Béis bag is it. In addition to a spacious main compartment, is has the all-important laptop sleeve (easy to access when you’re going through airport security) and a zippered bottom compartment for your shoes or toiletries (or snacks). It also has a passthrough that attaches to your suitcase handle, making it efficient in every way we can think of. Your only problem will be choosing which cool color you like best.

“High quality, very sturdy, and fits loads,” one Béis customer said of their Mini Weekender. “[I] will be using it for years to come.”

To buy: beis.com , $88

Bagsmart Large Tote Bag

This roomy carry-on tote takes packing space to the next level — not only can it store your clothes, work supplies, personal electronics, and other travel essentials, but it also has space for a yoga mat, too. (Anyone who’s ever tried to fly with one knows how impossibly awkward and cumbersome that can be without the right gear.) This large tote bag saves the day with a brilliant fixed buckle made just for the job, so you can attach your mat to the top with no fuss. It also has a side pocket that fits your water bottle and a front pocket for easy access to things like your phone or passport.

“The shoulder straps are comfortable, and the bag is easy to carry....not too heavy when full,” wrote a happy customer.

To buy: amazon.com , $30 (originally $43)

Away F.A.R Tote 45L

This spacious tote by Away was built to be a carry-on. Made of recycled materials with an abrasion- and weather-resistant finish, it will safely store clothing, shoes, electronics, and more and keep them safe and dry in any condition. It also has some stealth storage, including a hidden exterior pocket for easy access to your passport or phone, an interior mesh pocket for smaller valuables like earbuds or jewelry, and an interior webbing loop to keep your keys secure. Thanks to a trolley sleeve, you can easily attach it to your luggage handle and zip to your gate. Choose from five colors, including the popular orange.

“I like to keep my hiking gear separate from other clothing so this bag is ideal for that — hiking shoes, bladder backpack, poles, leggings, shirts, hats, electrolytes and granola bars, first aid kit etc,” wrote a savvy shopper.

To buy: away.com , $98 (originally $140)

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Tote Bag

Attention, light packers: this is the only tote bag you’ll want to fly with. Thanks to a front pocket with RFID protection, which blocks thieves from remotely scanning your credit cards, passport and other important documents, you’re free to focus on more pressing airport matters like exchanging your money for foreign currency or finding a public charging station for your phone. The tote has other safety features, too, like a front pocket with a locking zipper and a key clip with an LED light.

“I purchased this bag for a recent trip to Brazil and it was great; it held everything I needed and gave me an added sense of security,” wrote one savvy shopper. They added that the “zippers locked, and I could dress the bag up with pretty scarves or leave it plain depending on the situation.” 

To buy: amazon.com , $90

Cyureay Convertible Tote Bag/Backpack

This tote bag is an impressive three bags in one: in addition to a rugged tote, it converts into a backpack and crossbody — how’s that for versatility? It’s made of durable, scratch- and water-resistant nylon with a padded, reinforced shoulder strap for comfort while you wait in never-ending airport lines. Speaking of, this tote also has a built-in USB port for charging up your phone. It’s got you covered on all fronts, with the spaciousness to hold a large laptop as well as many compartments, including an anti-theft pocket in the back.

“As a flight attendant, I need one multipurpose bag, and this is it,” One shopper wrote , adding that they tried at least 19 others. “It has a luggage strap, handles, backpack option, and long handle. I’ve washed it and thrown it around endlessly. It’s a real winner in my book.”

To buy: amazon.com , $30

Baggallini Any Day Tote with RFID Phone Wristlet

Lightweight and water-resistant, this nylon tote has pockets galore, and most of them are hidden inside where valuable things stay safe and out of reach. External zippered pockets keep things like your passport and wallet handy, though. It’s easy to carry and maneuver this bag thanks to an adjustable strap and a sleeve that lets you slide the bag right over your suitcase handles. The cherry on top is the matching anti-theft wristlet, which is armed with RFID technology to prevent your cards and ID from being scanned by would-be thieves.

“This bag was everything and a bag of chips. This helped so much for our travel over to Europe,” wrote a five-star reviewer. “Even the flight attendant stated that she had the same bag and loves it. I am so happy to have this. Plus, the extra security of RFID made it a no-brainer.”

To buy: amazon.com , $80 (originally $118)

Orshawer Carry-On Tote Bag

This lightweight tote bag is just $19 but is more efficient for travel than plenty of tote bags 10 times that price. The waterproof and rip-resistant bag has lots of space for up to five days’ worth of clothes, cosmetics and more, but it’s the compartments that really make this one a winner. Internal pockets are specifically designed to let you separate dry and wet belongings, and a hidden pocket on the bag’s luggage sleeve conceals important items where you least expect it. When you’re not using it, just fold the tote up into its compact case and stow it in your luggage.

“It’s bigger than expected but can easily be reduced to a smaller size. I was shocked at how much it held and still fit under the airplane seat,” wrote a fan.

To buy: amazon.com , $19

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Quilted Chevron

Getting through airport security with a laptop in your carry-on can be daunting, but this well-designed tote makes it easy. That’s because its laptop compartment opens out, making it a cinch to slip the device in and out without holding up the line, and the compartment even hides spots and sleeves for valuables like your tablet, phone, passport, and even your toothbrush and toothpaste. This bag actually has pockets galore, both zipped and unzipped, including a zippered front pocket for things you need at the ready. A trolley strap in the back just completes the convenience of this beloved bag.

“This bag is classy and great for traveling,” one reviewer wrote, saying they even “like it so much better than the Tumi I was originally shopping for. [It has] great pockets and protection for [my] computer and iPad.” They concluded that it “looks professional and [is] very sturdy.”

To buy: amazon.com , $80

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