Written by AAA Travel Store Manager, Becky Flint
Looking for a new personal backpack and are overwhelmed? A pack that’s perfect for one travel style may not be ideal for another. There are always certain trade-offs in terms of comfort, features, or weight, ultimately, it’s all about choosing the best backpack for you. Here are some of my favorite carryon backpacks based on size, type, and features.
Factors In Your Backpack Decision
The perfect backpack strikes that delicate balance between functionality and simplicity, between durability and weight, between capacity and carry-on compliance. Some factors to look for.
30-40 Liters is the right size range for a carryon, a smaller size, like 30L, is better for weekend trips, or if you’re using a backpack in combination with a carryon. It should be easy to carry and have a sleeve to slide over any carryon spinner handle. Make sure the pockets and features are simple and useful. It’s important that the pack is made of quality material and has a warranty to back it up. A pack that is truly durable and weather-resistant will give you not just comfort on the road but also stay with you for a very long time.
Briggs & Riley ZDX Medium Convertible Backpack Duffle
AAA Member Price: $409.00
Exterior Dimensions: 18.5 x 12 x 8.75 – 11in / 47 x 30.5 x 22.2 – 27.9cm
Capacity: 1657.7 – 2044.3 cu in / 27 – 33.5 Liters
Weight: 3.7 lbs. / 1.7 kig
The Convertible Backpack Duffle maximizes storage space with a zip-around closure and goes from backpack to duffle with three ways to carry. The zip-around expansion gives you 25% more packing space for more versatility. From intuitive laptop and water bottle compartments plus convenient pockets, organization has never been easier. Briggs & Riley’s Simple as that® lifetime guarantee means if your bag is ever damaged—even by an airline—they’ll repair it, for life. Free of charge, no proof of purchase is needed.
Baggallini Modern Convertible Travel Backpack
AAA Member Price: $167.00
Exterior Dimensions: 11.8″w x 17.7″h x 7″d (expanded) 8.5″d (unexpanded)
Capacity: 25.8 Liters
Weight: 2 lb 11oz
The Baggallini convertible backpack opens flat for easy, suitcase-like packing, and features a convenient 52” crossbody strap when you want to wear it as a duffel. With an expandable main compartment, a convenient luggage handle sleeve, and an easy-access laptop pocket, travel’s never been easier. Backpack straps adjust from 20” to 37” and main compartment expands 1.5 inches giving you extra space.
Portland Gear® Cascade Backpack Standard
AAA Member Price: $98.00
Exterior Dimensions: 16″h x 11″w x 8.5″d
Capacity: 21 Liters
Weight: 2.375 lb (38oz)
The Portland Gear backpack is built with both capacity and convenience in mind; this bag is perfect for daily use. With weather-proof construction and wireframe top for easy access the pack can hold and take anything the day throws at it. Outside hidden security pocket and inside organizational pockets make the Portland Gear pack a great carryon, fits under all standard airline seats.
Before We Pack It Up:
Backpacks are not for everyone, but once some people try it, they are hooked! Finding the right pack is a personal choice and no single bag appeals to everyone. That’s why we have choices that are for great people that travel!
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