A medium-sized carry on backpack is any bag that is smaller than the maximum carry on bag dimensions but is larger than a personal item. Typically that means a 25-35L backpack. If you're a budget airline flyer or minimalist packer, a medium-sized carry on backpack is probably the best size for you.
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30L-35L: There are a handful of travel backpacks in the 30L-35L range. In my opinion, these are still too small for most travelers. Bags in this range are best for minimalist travels or travelers who use a suitcase but still want a smaller backpack for extra stuff.
The most important factor when choosing a carry on travel backpack is its size. Each airline sets its own guidelines for the maximum allowable size for carry on luggage . Most airlines allow bags up to 45 linear inches (length + width + depth) or 22? long, 14? wide, and 9? deep.
While personal item size restrictions vary across airlines, most airlines consider a small backpack, purse, briefcase, or laptop bag to be a personal item. These must always fit under the seat in front of you. Many airlines restrict passengers to one personal item and one carry on bag.
Luckily, Tortuga makes backpacks that work as underseat carry ons. 30L or 40L backpacks are great options for primary carry ons but are usually too big to be considered personal item that need to be small enough to slide easily under the seat in front of you.
Their dimensions also often fall under the maximum carry on requirements for peace of mind when traveling light. We recommend using a 30 liter backpack carry on as its often just the right size for airline bag requirements.
Not too big, not too small–the bestselling Allpa 35L is just right. It's carry-on compatible with most airlines (minus smaller regional flights), and it's great for trips up to about 2 weeks long.
21–35 liters: This is the sweet spot for most hiking and travel daypacks. There's enough capacity to hold food, clothing and some extras, like a camera and a book. 36–50 liters: These larger packs are ideal for trips that require additional clothing and gear, such as climbing, mountaineering or non-summer hiking.
Most airlines allow bags up to 45 linear inches (length + width + depth) or 22? long, 14? wide, and 9? deep. To prevent problems at the airport, your bag should be no larger than these dimensions.
30-50 liters: In general, luggage that has a capacity of about 50 liters or less is sufficient for a weekend trip. There are lots of carry-on duffels, packs and bags in this size range to choose from. 50-75 liters: For a trip that lasts one to two weeks, many people jump up to a bag in this range.
In fact, carry-on allowance isn't determined by the TSA but instead by individual airlines. Generally speaking, most airlines implement a maximum size policy of 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, including wheels and handles. Your baggage allowance could also depend on your ticket type.
If your carry-on is oversized (and doesn't physically fit inside the overhead compartments) or you encounter a strict airline employee, they will ask you to check it in at the gate.
A backpack can be your carry on if it meets your airline's carry on size limits. A personal item is a smaller, secondary bag, which you'll stow under the seat in front of you. Read Carry Ons vs. Personal Items for more on the differences between the two.