A struggle that many travelers face is finding a backpack that works as a carry-on. While it may be the correct size and weight, it doesn’t always fit under the seat. To help you find that perfect carry-on backpack, here are a few features to keep in mind.
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1. Limit Pockets
One problem that travelers have with their backpack is not being able to fit it beneath the seat due to the pockets. Those pouches and pockets can snag on your seat, the seat next to you, and other objects, which prevents it from being able to be pushed beneath the seat.
The best solution is to have a backpack that limits the number of pouches and pockets that it has. With little to snag against, you should find that slipping the backpack beneath your seat is quite easy.
2. Water Bottle Holders
While you can’t always bring your own water bottles with you on the plane–at least not filled–you can get water after you pass through security or on the plane itself. Why pull down the tray to hold your water and limit your space further when you have a backpack that can hold it for you?
The best underseat carry on backpack should have one or two water bottle holders. You can easily slip the bottle in the pocket and have access to it whenever you need a drink. It won’t roll away whenever the plane dips or moves as it would if you simply placed it on the ground.
Nor do you need to have the food tray pulled down to use as a table and thus limit the space in your seat even further. Let your backpack make your journey on the plane even more comfortable.
3. Electric Cord Hole
If you happen to be in a business class, then you likely want to use your laptop to do some work. However, pulling out the cord to plug it into the socket can be a nightmare. The cord goes everywhere and takes up so much room.
The best underseat carry on backpack, however, should have a hole near the top that lets you snake through the cord. The bulk of the cord will remain inside the pack. This frees up space around you and keeps the cord contained.
Your backpack can turn chaos into an organized and functional space instead.
4. Insulated Pouch
If your backpack has any pouches, then it should be a single insulated one. While traveling on a plane sometimes provides you with a snack, this isn’t always the case. Even then, the snacks aren’t always the greatest.
For those who want to bring their own meals on the plane, then you need a backpack that has an insulated pouch. You can easily keep your snacks cold inside of the bag for hours. All you need to include in the pouch is an ice pack.
Just make sure that when you’re pushing the backpack beneath your seat, the pouch remains close to your feet, so you can easily access it whenever you become hungry.
5. Soft Material
While hardshell backpacks will keep your items safer inside of them because of its durability, hardshell backpacks aren’t always the easiest of things to stuff into small spaces. When you want an undersea carry-on, then you need a backpack with a soft material.
The softer material allows you to squish just a few more inches beneath your seat. Even if you happen to stuff your backpack full of stuff, you’re still going to have an easier time pushing a softer material than a hard one.
Best Underseat Carry on Backpack
Bestseller
Cabin Max Mini Metz 30L Under seat Mini Backpack - Weekender Bag
- ✔️ DIMENSIONS - 18x14x8 inches Capacity - 30L Weight - 1.5lb - The Mini Metz underseat carry on luggage is perfect for all major airlines including Southwest Airlines!
- ✔️ SPACIOUS - The 30 liter capacity main compartment is uninterrupted, there is nothing within the backpack to take away from the capacity of the main compartment, opening like a suitcase, enables the bag to be packed with ease without creasing any of your luggage!
- ✔️ EASE - The bag is easy to carry with well-padded backpack straps and padded back section for comfort when carrying.
- ✔️ ORGANIZED - A large front organization pocket and quick access for any travel documentation you may require to speed up the checking in process at the airport.
- ✔️ GUARANTEE - All Cabin Max luggage comes with a 3 year manufacturers warranty.
Bestseller
MARK RYDEN Travel Backpack for Men, 38L Airline Approved Carry on Backpack with 17.3 Inch Laptop Compartment and USB Charging Port, Waterproof Business Backpack Ideal for Traveling, Working, Daily
- ★ Expandable Large Capacity: Compressed capacity of 26L, full-expansion zipper creates 30% percent more packing space, capacity up to 38L, total three layers. The first compartment can store your phone, passport or other small items etc. The second compartment can store clothes and daily supplies. The third compartment is a laptop compartment, which can store a 17.3 inch laptop as well as 15.6 inch, 14 inch and 13 inch Laptop.
- ★ USB Charging Port Design: The usb backpack comes with a charging port you can link your phone to and easily charge during outdoors and travel. Place your power bank inside the bag and connect your phone to the outer port ( built-in charging cable inside ). Please note that this travel bag doesn't power itself, usb charging port only provides easy access to charge.
- ★ Multi-functional Design: Business backpack with back U shaped three-dimensional ventilation design helps with air convection, ventilation and heat elimination. Wide breathable mesh shoulder straps and back with plentiful sponge pads help relieve the stress from your shoulder. The back of the backpack luggage strap design makes the journey easier. In addition there are anti-theft pocket design, shoulder strap non-slip buckle design, side buckle design, etc.
- ★ High Quality SBS Zippers: Smooth two-way zippers are a very important component of the men and women casual daypack backpack, which are made of heavy duty metal material, wear-resistant, anti-oxidated and easy to slide and work smoothly. The zipper pull-tabs are durable, good-sized and elegant in design.
- ★ Water Resistant Backpack: The computer backpack is made of Oxford fabric with high density nylon lining, which has good waterproof performance, protects your belongings from splashing water and rain, is perfect for business traveling, weekend getaways, shopping, going to school, professional office work and other outdoor activities.
Bestseller
Hynes Eagle 38L Flight Approved Weekender Carry on Backpack Black 2017
- New version with new logo and sternum strap for stability, convenient for worldwide travelers
- 1 top handle, 1 side handle and suppressible adjustable padded shoulder straps for versatile carrying options
- Multiple sides compression buckle straps for adjusting the height based on your need and protect your stuff from knocks and bumps
- Design to fit the allowed maximum size of most IATA flights, fit in the overhead compartment as well as the under seat storage in flight; Note:Please check the size and dimensions carefully before placing order
- 38 L capacity to fit your belongings and gadgets, also could fit 3 pieces packing cubes, Dimensions: 13 x 7.9 x 19.7 inches/33 x 20 x 50 cm; Package: 1 x backpack
Bestseller
Rangeland Cabin Hand Luggage Backpack Small Carry-On Daypack Airplane Travel Under-seat for Women Men fits 15.6-inch Laptop, Water Blue
- ✅ PERSONAL ITEM BACKPACK – Flight approved travel backpack opens like a suitcase small but spacious and lightweight. Backpack fits under airplane seat for most airlines like Allegiant or Ryanair. With splendid features make traveler walk through airport much easier, a padded grab-and-go handle, a convenient luggage trolley strap, backpack with separate laptop compartment making it easier to take out for security checkpoint
- ✅ LARGE CAPACITY AND PRACTICAL – This rectangle front-loading backpack measures 12 x 16 x 7 inches that maximizes all the storage space, featuring a vertical zipper pocket for in-flight essentials, a quick-access top pocket to organize smaller items, zip compartment on the back of backpack for MacBook Pro 16-inch. The interior is bright color, making it easier to see everything, built-in internal elastic clothes holding straps; 3 mesh pockets to keep travel accessories handy and visible
- ✅ DURABLE AND COMFORTABLE – Made of sturdy and scratch-resistant polyester. 4 compression straps squish the load closer to your back, these useful buckle straps can also secure the zipper; to fit more gear and even holding your rolled jacket to free-your-hands. Padded ergonomic shoulder straps and breathable mesh back padding fit snugly to ensure comfort on-the-go
- ✅ GREAT GIFT IDEAS – Tired of searching for a simple, casual yet stylish backpack for your next trip? Search no more, because we have the minimalist perfect size carry-on bag ideal for making your trips less stressful and more exciting. Best vacation gifts for family and friends so that all of you wear the matching backpacks perfect in group photos and make your travel more fun
- ✅ VERSATILE BACKPACK – This solid color blue backpack is not just a carry-on luggage bags for travel, it is a well-made multi-purpose sports backpack. Roomy space packs all workout clothes, shoes, towel, water bottle, and some must-have items, easily transition from gym to office as a work-gym bag. It also can be used as a school backpack, college daypack, commuter backpack, backpacking backpack, book-bag, everyday travel backpack
Bestseller
Carry On Backpack, 35l Travel Backpack For Womens Girls Airline Approved, Cute Underseat Personal Item Travel Bag With Shoe Compartment, Casual Daypack Gifts For Hiking Outdoor Sports Weekend, Blue
- Convenient Usb Port: Travel laptop backpack with built in USB charger outside and built in charging cable inside, personal item travel bag offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking. Please note womens travel backpack doesn't power itself and does not include a powerbank and cable, usb charging port only offers easy access to charge
- Roomy Capacity & Multi-Pocket: Dimensions 17*11*7inch, Light Weight 1.2Kg(2.5lb), large travel backpack has 3 main large compartments and 9 allocated inner pockets and side pockets. Makes your item organized and easier to find. College backpack with laptop compartment holds a 17 inch laptop and a 12.9 iPad, backpack for women travel bag Providing a dedicated space for your pen, textbooks, wallet, clothes, shoes, bottle etc. At the same time, backpack college women is slightly waterproof
- Flight Approved Laptop Backpack: 180 degree zipper closure helps you pass through the security check quickly. Travel laptop backpack fits overhead and under the seat. travel backpack for women also meets airline carry-on requirements, applicable for airlines such as Easy Jet, Spirit, Jet Blue
- Be Handbag or Backpack: Womens backpack travel designed with hideaway padded adjustable shoulder straps which can be easily stored away in zippered back panel, transforming this weekend backpack from hand bag to backpack. Luggage Strap provides a more flexible carrying experience.Two padded grab handles are set on top and side of large backpack for travel
- Widely Used: Business travel backpack can be used in several different ways, served as college backpack, daily backpack, weekend backpack, tsa backpack, personal item backpack, laptop backpack, luggage backpack, suitcase backpack, travel essential. Backpack travel bag for airplane is perfect for weekender, travel, college, daily use, and is also the best birthday gift for daughter women girls.
SaleBestseller
Travelpro Women's Maxlite 5 Laptop Backpack, Black, Carry-on 15-Inch
- Travelpro QuickSlip front pocket with magnetic closure is ideal for storing cell phone or other essentials when going through airport security. Padded laptop or tablet (up to 14”) sleeve offers protection for electronics.
- Polyester fabric with DuraGuard coating resists water and stains to keep luggage looking great. Ergonomic, high-tensile-strength zipper pulls are tough yet easy on the hands. Exterior side pockets hold a water bottle, compact umbrella and other accessories.
- Unobtrusive rear strap fits around the extension handle of a Rollaboard or spinner suitcase for secure stacking and hands-free mobility. Organizational pockets store power cords, powerbanks and other essentials.
- Backed by our built for a lifetime limited worry free warranty that covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for the life of the bag after registration under the trusted companion promise.
- Case Dimensions: 15x10x4.5, Overall Dimensions: 15x10x5.5, Weight: 1.3lbs
Bestseller
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Rolling Underseat Compact Carry-On Upright 2 Wheel Bag, Men and Women, Black, 15-Inch
- Compact, wheeled underseat carry-on bag is designed for organization, mobility and convenience. Polyester fabric with stain-resistant, water-repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, high-tensile-strength zipper pulls provide lasting durability.
- High-performance inline skate wheels and lightweight yet sturdy PowerScope Lite handle reduces wobble and ensure a smooth, easy roll.
- Front flap, roomy interior and built-in pockets keep contents organized and accessible. Removable, hanging wet pocket is perfect for storing cosmetics or toiletries. Padded laptop/tablet sleeve offers protection for electronic essentials.
- Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year.
- Case Dimensions: 15.25x13x8, Overall Dimensions: 17.5x14.5x8.5, Weight: 5.5 lbs. Volume: 26 L
SaleBestseller
coowoz Large Travel Backpack Women, Carry On Backpack,Hiking Backpack Waterproof Outdoor Sports Rucksack Casual Daypack School Bag Fit 15.6 Inch Laptop with USB Charging Port Shoes Compartment
- 【Large Upgraded Version】Increase capacity, improve comfort and relieve back pressure.
- 【Women's Travel Backpack】This backpack is made of waterproof and durable polyester with good breathability and heat dissipation, with two padded shoulder straps, providing light carrying and strength enhancement, reducing the pressure on the shoulders, keeping long Time's cool down. It's tough, sturdy and won't fade.
- 【Separate shoe compartment design and wet pocket】Main pocket x 2, laptop compartment x 2, and many other pockets for different purposes. Wet bags are made of high-density waterproof material to help you separate wet and dry items, and if you have wet clothes or towels, you can put them in the wet bag. A separate shoe cabinet can help you better carry your shoes and store them in your travel bag.
- 【USB Charging Port】Built-in charging port to charge your phone anytime, anywhere.(The power bank and data cable in the pictures are fodisplay purposes,not gifts, need to be provided by yourself)
- 【Anti-theft multifunctional backpack】There is a zipper pocket on the back of the bag, which can store valuables such as mobile phones and iPads, which is anti-theft and convenient. Versatile Backpack: Hybrid (backpack/duffel bag/shoulder bag/travel bag) conversion. Several different ways can be used. It can be used as an everyday backpack, a roomy college bag, a professional backpack for a laptop or everyday use anywhere, perfect for weekend getaways, occasional use.
SaleBestseller
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, Business Anti Theft Slim Durable Laptops Backpack with USB Charging Port, Water Resistant College School Computer Bag Gifts for Men & Women Fits 15.6 Inch Notebook, Grey
- ★LOTS OF STORAGE SPACE&POCKETS: One separate laptop compartment hold 15.6 Inch Laptop as well as 15 Inch,14 Inch and 13 Inch Laptop. One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities,tech electronics accessories. Front compartment with many pockets, pen pockets and key fob hook, makes your item organized and easier to find
- ★COMFY&STURDY: Comfortable soft padded back design with thick but soft multi-panel ventilated padding, gives you maximum back support. Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps relieve the stress of shoulder. Foam padded top handle for a long time carry on
- ★FUNCTIONAL&SAFE: A luggage strap allows backpack fit on luggage/suitcase, slide over the luggage upright handle tube for easier carrying. With a hidden anti theft pocket on the back protect your valuable items from thieves. Well made for international airplane travel and day trip as a travel gift for men
- ★USB PORT DESIGN: With built in USB charger outside and built in charging cable inside,this usb backpack offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking. It's a great tech gift for him from wife, daughter and son. Please noted that this backpack doesn't power itself, usb charging port only offers an easy access to charge
- ★DURABLE MATERIAL&SOLID: Made of Water Resistant and Durable Polyester Fabric with metal zippers. Ensure a secure & long-lasting usage everyday & weekend.Serve you well as professional office work bag,slim USB charging bagpack,college high school big students backpacks for boys,girls,teens
Bestseller
Dinictis Travel Laptop Backpack for Men Women,Fits 15.6 Inch Notebook, Carry on Flight Approved Suitcase Backpack, Water Resistant Weekender Overnight Daypack, Grey
- Ample Space and Reasonable Design: Backpack size: 18.1*12.3*7.8 inches, which fits the maximum size allowed by the flight, like a suitcase backpack easy to carry on; Suitable for business trips,arry-on backpack, international travel, weekend trips, camping, hiking, overnight trips.
- Convenient to travel: The exclusive aviation backpack size is more suitable for carrying on air travel, and the Luggage trolley straps provides easy travel, the main handle and side handles are designed to lift the backpack from multiple angles.
- EASY TO ORGANIZE: Computer compartment with protective foam pad holds up to 15.6" laptop. The main compartment has a mesh pocket, which can store small items for travel, and the multifunctional front pocket is more suitable for storing more small items in life.
- Strong and Durable: The backpack features explosion-proof SBS zippers, high-density scratch-resistant and water-resistant polyester fabric that reinforces key points to provide a more durable backpack.
- COMFORTABLE: The thick and breathable foam design on the back is more suitable for long-term carrying, the thick foam handles and shoulder straps make you more comfortable when carrying and grasping the bag;The chest strap can reduce the pressure on the shoulders.