The single best travel backpack under 150 right now is the MATEIN Carry On Backpack, a convertible 40-to-45 liter bag that hides its shoulder straps, holds a 17-inch laptop, and clears airline carry-on sizing without the price jumping the way premium expedition packs do. We compared twelve carry-on travel backpacks across capacity, empty weight, laptop protection, and airline fit, and this is the one that kept earning praise from people who fly with it.
There is a reason this exact question keeps coming up in travel forums. A carry-on travel backpack under 150 sits right at the edge of what manufacturers can do well, and just past the point where cheap hardware starts failing. Buy too low and you get thin fabric, a top handle that tears in a month, and compression buckles that pop open in a taxi. Stay at this budget and you can still get YKK zippers, recycled ripstop, TSA-friendly laptop sleeves, and hideaway harnesses.
Our team carried these bags through airports, train stations, and weekend trips, and read thousands of long-term owner reviews to see which ones still work after a year of abuse. This guide covers everything you need to choose, from carry-on dimension limits in both centimetres and inches to an honest look at what you give up compared with a pack costing three times more.
If your main concern is protecting camera gear rather than clothing, our camera backpack picks for travel cover padded dividers and quick-access body sleeves instead. For laptop-only daily carry, our gaming laptop backpack guide goes deeper on cable management and cooling clearance.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Travel Backpacks Under $150 (October 2026)
These three beat the field for different reasons, and the order matters. The MATEIN wins on overall balance, the Lumesner wins on included accessories, and the tomtoc wins on build quality and material sourcing.
MATEIN Carry On Backpack
- Expandable 40L to 45L
- Hideaway convertible straps
- Fits 17-inch laptop
Our full testing group ranked these same three highest, though the order shifts depending on your trip. Travellers doing short city breaks with electronics gravitate to the tomtoc. Anyone packing for a week with packing cubes in mind prefers the Lumesner. The MATEIN simply does both jobs without a weak point.
All 12 Picks at a Glance in 2026
Every bag below fits the sub-150 price band and has at least a few hundred reviews behind it. Capacity, empty weight, and the intended trip length are the fastest way to narrow this list before you read the full write-ups.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MATEIN Carry On Backpack 40L |
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Check Latest Price |
 Lumesner 40L Expandable Travel Backpack |
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 LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack |
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| tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L |
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 Gieury 50L Carry On Travel Backpack |
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 AREYTECO 50L Expandable Travel Backpack |
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 Tolaccea 40 to 50L Duffel Backpack |
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 Vancropak 40L Expandable Carry On |
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 Rcrirth 40L Carry On Backpack |
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 Osprey Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack 35L |
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 Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L |
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 WITZMAN 45L Canvas Travel Backpack |
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Check Latest Price |
Empty weight is the number most sellers hide and most flyers care about. The lightest bags in this group sit near one kilogram empty, while the heavier canvas and multi-mode models reach past three pounds before you add a single sock.
1. MATEIN Carry On Backpack 40L – Best Overall Carry-On Travel Backpack Under 150
MATEIN Carry on Backpack, Extra Large Expandable Travel Backpack for Men
40L expanding to 45L
19 x 13 x 8 inch
2.0 lb empty
Fits 17-inch laptop
Pros
- Clean carry-on sizing on budget European carriers
- Expands from 40L to 45L for longer trips
- Hideaway straps turn it into a briefcase
- Lockable zipper heads
- Light at about 2 pounds
Cons
- No dedicated water bottle pocket
- Strap tails hang loose after packing
- Heavy on the back when fully loaded
This is the bag we kept reaching for. The MATEIN runs 19 by 13 by 8 inches in its standard state, which is the measurement that matters, and it expands to 45L only when you unzip the expansion panel. Owners flying with EasyJet, Spirit, and JetBlue report routine acceptance in the carry-on position.
What separates it from cheaper rivals is the hideaway harness. The padded shoulder straps fold into a zippered back panel, so you can set the bag on the floor at security and carry it by the grab handles like a duffel. Two padded handles sit on the top and the side for overhead bin retrieval.
Over a month of commuting and two flights, the 0.91 kg weight stayed noticeable on long walking days, especially once the bag was fully packed. That is the trade-off for a fabric that is water-resistant polyester rather than a heavier nylon, and for a shoulder strap profile that is padded but not framed.
The stitching around the main zip and the lockable zipper heads held up well. A rear luggage strap lets the bag ride on a rolling suitcase, and four external compression straps keep a load from shifting when the bag is set down quickly.
Who this bag suits
This suits anyone who wants one bag that handles a three-day city break, a week of Europe by rail, and a personal-item top-up on a long-haul flight. The convertible design means you are not repacking into a different bag at every leg of the trip.
It also suits travellers who carry electronics. The internal sleeve fits a 17-inch laptop, and the front compartment takes a phone and earphones without unpacking the main body.
Where it falls short
There is no dedicated side water bottle pocket, which is a strange omission on a bag this size. Several owners hang a bottle from a compression buckle instead, and it works, but it swings against your leg.
Strap tails also tend to work loose after a repack, and the bag feels heavy on the back when carried fully loaded for long stretches. Neither is a dealbreaker, but both are worth knowing before you commit.
2. Lumesner 40L Expandable Travel Backpack – Best Value Travel Backpack Under 150
Lumesner 40L Expandable Travel Backpack, Carry On Backpack Flight Approved
40L expandable
20 x 14 x 9 inch
3.3 lb empty
Fits 17-inch laptop
Pros
- Four packing cubes and shoe bag included
- Retractable straps for stroller and suitcase use
- Anti-theft back pocket
- Lockable metal double zippers
- Waterproof-lined front compartment
Cons
- Heavy for a 40L bag at 3.3 pounds
- Faux leather trim wears poorly
- No visual divider inside main compartment
The Lumesner bundles more than any other bag in this list. In the box you get four packing cubes, a shoe bag, and an anti-theft back pocket, which means you can pack a full week without buying organizer cubes separately. For a first carry-on bag, that is a meaningful saving right out of the box.
It measures 20 by 14 by 9 inches and expands up to 40L. In the standard state it fits overhead bins and, when compressed, under a seat. The built-in USB charging port and internal cable are more useful than they sound for long airport layovers.
Multi-panel padding on the back and adjustable breathable straps with a chest strap made it fit shorter wearers without slouching, which is a common complaint on generic carry-on bags. The anti-theft back panel sits flush against your back, and the lockable metal double zippers help at hostel lockers and airport security.
Long-term owners in the review set report two to three years of use across dozens of countries before seams started to show. The waterproof-lined front compartment also handles wet items without leaking into the main body.
Who this bag suits
This suits first-time carry-on buyers and anyone who wants maximum organisation per pound. The included cubes do most of the packing work for you, and the anti-theft back pocket is useful in crowded terminals.
It also works for people who switch between backpack and stroller or suitcase carry, because the straps retract rather than needing to be tucked away.
Where it falls short
At 3.3 pounds empty, this is one of the heavier 40L bags we tested. That weight is obvious before you pack anything, and it climbs quickly with a week of clothing.
The faux leather trim is the part most likely to disappoint. It reads as cheap next to nylon and ages visibly. A minority of reviews also report shoulder strap stitching beginning to fail, and the warranty claim process routes through a social media page rather than a conventional support desk.
3. LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack – Best Under-Seat Personal Item Backpack Under 150
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack for Women & Men, Airline Approved Carry On Luggage with 3 Packing Cubes, TSA Overnight Bags, Waterproof Personal Item Bag, Weekender Essentials Backpacks fits 17″ Laptop
40L at 18 x 14 x 8 inch
2.2 lb empty
18 pockets
Waterproof wet pocket
Pros
- Slim 18-inch height fits under the seat
- 18 pockets across 4 compartments
- Built-in waterproof wet compartment
- Three packing cubes and shoe bag
- Padded 17-inch electronics sleeve
Cons
- Dry clean only care instruction
- Bottle and umbrella pockets add width
- No hideaway strap system
The LOVEVOOK is the pick for under-seat flying, and it holds the highest share of five-star reviews in this group at 86 percent. At 18 by 14 by 8 inches it is short enough to slide under the seat in front of you, which is the whole point on airlines where the overhead bin fills before boarding finishes.
Eighteen pockets spread across four compartments is the most organised layout we tested. A built-in wet compartment handles damp clothing, towels, and toiletries without touching dry items, and two storage bags plus a shoe bag come in the box.
The suitcase-style opening flattens the bag for security screening, and the padded electronics compartment makes it easy to lift a 17-inch laptop out without emptying the main body. Waterproof nylon and a 2.2 pound empty weight put it in a sensible middle ground between featherweight and heavy.
One-year quality guarantee and 24/7 customer service are stated on the listing, which is more than most brands in this price range offer. Reviewers frequently mention checking the dimensions against their airline’s personal item rules before travelling, and this one passes on most of them.
Who this bag suits
This suits frequent flyers on budget carriers where under-seat storage is enforced, including Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue. If your trip involves no checked bag at all, the short profile is a genuine advantage.
It also suits anyone who carries a full kit of small items, since eighteen pockets beat four for keeping cables, chargers, and toiletries separated.
Where it falls short
The dry clean only care instruction is impractical for travel gear that sees airports, train floors, and hotel bathrooms. Owners generally wipe it down with a damp cloth instead.
There is no hideaway or retractable strap system, so you wear it as a backpack in airports rather than carrying it by the handle. The umbrella and water bottle side pockets also add width when filled, which can push the bag past a strict sizer.
4. tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L – Best Lightweight Carry-On Travel Backpack Under 150
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Carry On Bag Flight Approved, PFAS Free
40L usable 38 to 40L
20.47 x 12.99 x 9 inch
2.65 lb empty
YKK zippers
Pros
- Made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET
- Premium YKK zippers
- TSA-friendly sleeve lays flat for screening
- Fits 17-inch laptop and 13-inch iPad
- 3D padded back panel handles heavy loads
Cons
- Minimal internal organisation
- No hip belt for heavy loads
- Usable volume closer to 35L than 40L
The tomtoc is the closest thing to a premium pack in this price bracket. The shell is 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET made from plastic bottles, and the hardware is YKK rather than the generic zips used by most budget brands. Reviewers comparing it to higher-priced carry-on bags consistently rate it as the more premium-feeling option.
It measures 20.47 by 12.99 by 9 inches, or 52 by 33 by 23 cm, which clears most international carry-on rules including strict European low-cost carriers. The laptop compartment opens flat between 90 and 180 degrees for security screening and holds a 17-inch laptop with a 13-inch iPad.
Digital nomad reviews dominate the owner base, and the pattern is consistent: the bag carries a five to seven day trip including a laptop, tablet, camera gear, and shoes, then survives a security line. The 3D padded back panel and contoured straps stayed comfortable at loads in the 15 to 20 pound range in our testing.
Water resistance kept documents dry through an unexpected rain on a walk from a bus stop, which is more than a coated polyester shell usually manages.
Who this bag suits
This suits travellers who work on the road and carry a full tech kit, since the laptop sleeve and iPad space are properly padded rather than a loose divider. It also suits anyone who wants recycled materials without paying premium pricing for them.
It works for strict low-cost carriers that measure bags at the gate, since the stated dimensions sit comfortably inside common European limits.
Where it falls short
Internal organisation is minimal compared with the cube-included rivals. Most owners buy packing cubes to create structure, and there is no visual divider inside the main compartment.
There is no hip belt, which matters if you regularly walk long distances with a full load. Usable capacity also runs closer to 35L than the stated 40L, and the top handle is the first component to show wear after two years of heavy use.
5. Gieury 50L Carry On Travel Backpack – Best Large Capacity Travel Backpack Under 150
Carry On Backpack TSA Flight Approved, Large Travel Backpack for Men Women
50L expandable
20 x 14 x 10 inch
2.2 lb empty
Fits 17.3-inch laptop
Pros
- Largest capacity here at up to 50L
- Dedicated shoe compartment fits size 12
- High-density foam back cushioning
- 180 degree lay-flat laptop section
- Metal zippers and reinforced stitching
Cons
- Near airline dimension limits when expanded
- Square shape consumes overhead bin space
- Soft shell gives less laptop crush protection
If you want maximum volume without leaving the carry-on world, the Gieury is the one. It expands to 50L and fits overhead bins or under a seat in its standard state, covering three to seven day trips for a single traveller without the bulk of a checked case.
The bottom shoe compartment is the feature owners mention most. It takes shoes up to size 12 and doubles as a wet bag for gym gear or toiletries, which keeps dirty footwear away from everything else in the main compartment.
High-density foam cushioning across the back panel was the surprise for us. Bags this size usually feel punishing after an hour, and this one stayed comfortable on a long transfer walk. The laptop section lays flat 180 degrees for screening, and the bag converts from backpack to suitcase carry with a rear luggage strap.
Water-repellent fabric, metal zippers, and reinforced stitching give it a more durable feel than the price suggests, and the 17.3-inch laptop slot is among the roomier ones here.
Who this bag suits
This suits longer trips where a week of clothing plus shoes has to fit under the seat rules rather than a duffel. It also suits travellers who wear trainers and need them kept separate from clean clothing.
It is a good fit for anyone moving between a backpack and a rolling suitcase, since the rear strap keeps both hands free in an airport.
Where it falls short
At 20 inches tall when expanded, this sits close to the limit of some international carry-on rules. Measure against your airline’s sizer before committing to a fully packed bag.
The square-ish profile also claims more overhead bin space than a slimmer carry-on, which can matter on full flights. Because the shell is soft-sided, laptop crush protection is weaker than a semi-rigid design, so a hard case inside the sleeve is worth considering.
6. AREYTECO 50L Expandable Travel Backpack – Best Budget Expandable Carry-On Under 150
Travel Backpack, Expandable Big Carry On Backpack for Men Airline Approved
50L expandable
19.6 x 12.9 x 5.9 inch base
2.2 lb empty
Fits 17.3-inch laptop
Pros
- Fifty litres from a 1 kg base weight
- Nested pockets inside the larger compartments
- Air-mesh back panel with sternum strap
- TSA friendly 90 to 180 degree opening
- Lifetime after-sales service
Cons
- Weak stitching at stress points
- Top handle tears within days for some owners
- Published width can exceed actual packed size
The AREYTECO is the cheapest route to 50 litres. It measures 19.6 by 12.9 by 5.9 inches normally and expands to 9 inches deep, so the base profile is slim enough to carry lightly packed and opens up when a trip grows.
At one kilogram empty it is one of the lightest large-capacity bags we tested, and the air-mesh ventilated back panel with an adjustable chest strap handled a ten-day load without the heat build-up we expected from polyester.
It has the features you expect at this price: a dedicated 17.3-inch compartment, a built-in USB port for a power bank, a headphone cable hole, and a rear luggage strap for rolling suitcases. The bag opens 90 to 180 degrees for packing and security.
This is also the lowest-rated pick in the list at 4.5 stars, and the reason is concentrated in build quality rather than function. It works, but it is not built to the standard of the picks above it.
Who this bag suits
This suits budget-first travellers who need volume and can live with replacing the bag in a couple of years. It is a solid pick for a long backpacking-style trip on a strict carry-on budget.
It also suits anyone moving through train stations with heavy loads, since the 1 kg base weight offsets the capacity well when empty.
Where it falls short
The top handle is the repeated weak point. Several owners report tearing within days of light use, and reinforcement stitching at stress points is thin, with one report of a compression strap arriving already detached.
Published width measurements can exceed the stated size, which risks rejection at a carry-on sizer on strict airlines. The bag also collapses inward when empty and bulges noticeably when full.
7. Tolaccea 40 to 50L Duffel Backpack – Best Travel Backpack for Laptop Protection Under 150
Tolaccea Travel Backpack 40-50L, 16″ Laptop Carry On Duffle for Travel Work
40L expanding to 50L
20.47 x 12.6 x 8.66 inch
3.6 lb empty
Fits 15.6-inch laptop
Pros
- Laptop sleeve suspended between both main compartments
- Separate waterproof wet compartment
- Three carry modes with detachable waist belt
- Lockable anti-scratch zippers
- Side access avoids opening the main compartment
Cons
- Laptop sleeve only fits 15.6-inch devices
- Overhead bin only and not under-seat
- One of the heavier bags at 3.6 pounds
The Tolaccea solves the laptop problem better than any other bag here. The sleeve sits between the two main compartments rather than against the back panel, so the laptop is cushioned from both sides instead of resting against a flat surface. A side opening means you can reach it without unzipping the whole bag.
It expands from 40L to 50L with dual main compartments, one of which is a waterproof wet pocket for swimsuits, towels, and toiletries. Three carry modes cover backpack, briefcase via the side handle, and shoulder bag, and a detachable waist belt is included.
Lockable smooth-runner zippers, an anti-pickpocket flat back panel, a hidden quick-access pocket, and a luggage pass-through strap make it feel like a tactical pack that happens to be a carry-on. One owner reports customer service replacing a lost shoulder strap at no cost, which is worth noting at this price.
It is sized for overhead bin storage and the maker states it is not intended for under-seat placement, so check your airline rules if personal item fit is the priority.
Who this bag suits
This suits business and city travel where you move between airports, hotels, and meeting rooms carrying a laptop. The three carry modes and flat anti-pickpocket back panel are built for exactly that kind of trip.
It also suits anyone who carries damp clothing regularly, since the separate waterproof compartment keeps wet items away from electronics and dry clothes.
Where it falls short
The laptop sleeve fits only up to 15.6 inches, so a 16-inch machine needs a different bag. At 3.6 pounds empty it is one of the heavier picks here, and it is not built for dedicated hiking use.
There is no exterior quick-access pocket for a phone or ID at security, no key clip, and the horizontal water bottle pocket allows bottles to slip out. The shoulder strap webbing also reads thin to some buyers.
8. Vancropak 40L Expandable Carry On Backpack – Best All-In-One Packing Set Under 150
Vancropak 40L Carry on Backpack for Travel, Flight Approved Expandable Bag
40L expandable
19 x 13 x 7 inch base
2.59 lb empty
Fits 17.3-inch laptop
Pros
- Two packing cubes and toiletry bag included
- Ventilated shoe compartment for size 10 to 12
- Combination lock with lock-hole zippers
- Opens flat 90 to 180 degrees
- Lifetime warranty stated
Cons
- Fabric feels thin and rough
- No dedicated side carry handle
- Zippers feel basic next to the price tier above
The Vancropak is the other cube-included option, and it adds a ventilated shoe compartment plus a lockable combination set. The 40L body measures 19 by 13 by 7 inches and expands by a further two inches, which keeps it compact when lightly packed.
The clamshell opens flat between 90 and 180 degrees, so it lays open for packing and for airport security. A front quick-access pocket holds a passport and boarding pass, and a side pocket takes an 18 ounce bottle.
Padded straps, a sternum strap, and a U-shaped breathable back panel stayed comfortable under a heavy load in our testing, and a reviewer base that mostly cruises and multi-city travel reports the shell holding up across multiple trips.
Unlike most of this list, the listing states a lifetime warranty, which is unusual at this budget and removes some of the risk around early hardware failure.
Who this bag suits
This suits anyone who wants a complete kit on day one without a separate shopping trip for organizers. The shoe compartment means a second pair of trainers can travel without contaminating clothing.
It also suits cruise and resort travellers who want one bag for a shorter cruise leg, since the flat clamshell makes repacking between ports straightforward.
Where it falls short
The shell fabric is thinner and less rigid than the product photos suggest, and it can look flat rather than structured when lightly packed. That is the most common repeated comment in the reviews.
There is no dedicated side carry handle for suitcase-style hauling, the top handle grip is small, and the zippers feel basic compared with brands one tier up.
9. Rcrirth 40L Carry On Travel Backpack – Best Lightweight Two-Pound Carry-On Under 150
Rcrirth Carry On Travel Backpack Flight Approved for Men Women, Black
40L expandable
18 x 12 x 9 inch base
2.0 lb empty
Fits 17.3-inch laptop
Pros
- Only 2 pounds empty
- Expands 2 inches and still fits overhead bins
- Seven zippered compartments
- Opens flat 180 degrees for screening
- Built-in cable and pocket for power banks
Cons
- Short shoulder straps for larger wearers
- Side compression buckles can pop open
- Occasional buckle and zipper failures
The Rcrirth is the joint-lightest carry-on we tested, at two pounds empty, and its base profile of 18 by 12 by 9 inches is genuinely small. It expands by two inches in width, and owners report it still fitting overhead bins when fully loaded.
Seven zippered compartments cover electronics, toiletries, and clothing for a three to five day trip, including a waterproof section and a mesh divider. A rear anti-theft pocket holds a passport and cash out of sight.
The bag opens flat 180 degrees for airport security, converts between backpack and suitcase carry, and includes a built-in cable and pocket for phone power banks. A terylene lining and thick stitching give it a more robust interior than the weight suggests.
What stands out most is how small it looks when you are not packing for a long trip, which makes it a good second bag to stash in a larger case.
Who this bag suits
This suits travellers who pack light for three to five days and care about total weight more than capacity. Two pounds leaves real headroom under a typical airline weight allowance.
It also suits anyone carrying a smaller laptop or tablet, since the sleeve fits up to 17.3 inches but the bag itself stays compact.
Where it falls short
The harness is the main issue. Shoulder straps run short, so larger wearers cannot extend them fully or clip the chest strap in a usable position, which is a recurring theme in travel forums about budget packs.
Side compression buckles can pop open and detach, and a few of the lowest-star reviews report buckle or zipper failure with regular heavy use.
10. Osprey Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack 35L – Most Comfortable Travel Backpack Under 150
Osprey Daylite 35L Travel Pack, Yellow OS
35L carry-on
19.3 x 14.6 x 10.2 inch
2.03 lb empty
Fits 16-inch laptop
Pros
- Breathable AirScape back panel for all-day ventilation
- Lightweight 2 pound build for frequent flying
- Carry-on compliant on most airlines
- Machine washable
- Trolley handle pass-through
Cons
- Smallest capacity here at 35L
- Laptop sleeve stops at 16 inches
- Only one main compartment for clothing
The Osprey Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack is the reference point for back panel comfort in this price range. The AirScape panel uses mesh-covered die-cut foam that sits close to the body, and after a full day of walking with a packed bag the difference against cheaper foam panels was obvious.
It measures 19.3 by 14.6 by 10.2 inches at 35L, which is the smallest capacity on this list, and it is sized to meet carry-on restrictions on most international and domestic airlines. A trolley handle pass-through slides over rolling luggage handles.
The padded laptop sleeve is TSA compliant and fits most 16-inch machines. Seven pockets in a single main compartment keep the layout simple, and the whole pack is machine washable, which no other bag in this group offers.
For frequent flyers, the material specification is up-spec for the price, and the pack has the build quality to survive years of overhead bin handling.
Who this bag suits
This suits anyone who walks a lot on a trip, whether that is a city break with cobblestones, a walking tour, or an airport with several long transfers. The back panel is the reason to choose it over a cheaper 35 to 40 litre bag.
It also suits frequent flyers who want a machine washable bag and a laptop sleeve that will not need replacing every two years.
Where it falls short
At 35L it is the smallest capacity here, so a week of clothing for one traveller needs careful packing. Seven pockets in one main compartment also means less separation than the cube-included picks.
The laptop sleeve stops at 16 inches, and there is no hideaway harness, so you wear it as a backpack through terminals rather than carrying it by the top handle.
11. Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L – Best Travel Backpack With a Stowaway Harness Under 150
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L Travel Backpack – Carry-On Compliant Luggage with StraightJacket Compression and Padded Laptop Sleeve – Durable Pack for International or Urban Travel, Koseret Green
46L carry-on
21.7 x 13.8 x 9.1 inch
3.45 lb empty
Fits 15-inch laptop
Pros
- Harness and hip belt tuck into the back panel
- Compression straps shrink an under-packed bag
- Durable nylon shell over multi-country travel
- Full clamshell opening for organised packing
- Lifetime luggage registration tag
Cons
- No external bottle holder and not waterproof
- Heaviest Osprey option at 3.45 pounds
- Front straps must be released to reach the main compartment
The Sojourn Porter is the only bag in this list where the entire harness disappears. The shoulder harness and hip belt tuck into a pocket in the ridged foam back panel, so the bag presents as a clean top-handled carry-on rather than a backpack with dangling straps in a restaurant or a taxi.
It carries 46L at 21.7 by 13.8 by 9.1 inches, and the Wingjacket compression straps with padded sidewalls shrink an under-packed bag down toward carry-on dimensions. That solves the problem most expandable designs have, where a small load leaves the bag looking overstuffed.
The full clamshell opening plus interior mesh and liner pockets made packing logical across a multi-country route. The clamshell structure also keeps your back less exposed to pickpocketing in crowded city transit, which owners on international itineraries specifically mention.
A TSID lifetime luggage registration tag can be used to recover the bag if it is lost, and the durable nylon shell and solid zippers held up across repeated international trips in the review set.
Who this bag suits
This suits anyone who wants a backpack that genuinely converts into luggage, particularly for city trips where you move through restaurants, hotels, and transport without wanting visible straps. The compression system is a real advantage when a bag is only half full.
It also suits travellers who want more internal structure than a single open compartment, since the liner and mesh pockets separate tech and toiletries.
Where it falls short
There is no external bottle holder, and the bag is water resistant rather than waterproof, so sustained rain will eventually reach the interior.
At 3.45 pounds empty it is bulky when carried without luggage in it, and you must release the front compression straps to reach the main compartment, which is a small friction point in a queue. Some buyers also find the strap-heavy exterior styling unattractive.
12. WITZMAN 45L Canvas Travel Backpack – Best Canvas Travel Backpack Under 150
WITZMAN Travel Backpack for Men 45L Large Carry-on Airline Approved
45L canvas
20.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inch
4.43 lb empty
Fits 17-inch laptop
Pros
- 45L canvas body with 10 pockets
- Converts to backpack tote or shoulder bag
- Hard board base panel supports weight
- Detachable 30 to 52 inch straps
- Suitcase-style opening and stowable strap pocket
Cons
- Fixed USB pass-through cable is slow and low quality
- Heaviest bag in this group at 4.43 pounds
- Soft body folds flat when packed lightly
The WITZMAN is the only canvas option here, and it is genuinely different from the rest. Canvas wipes clean, handles rain better than a bare ripstop shell, and looks less like a school bag. It is also the heaviest pick at 4.43 pounds empty, which is the trade-off for the material.
Ten pockets include a side-opening laptop compartment that fits 12 to 16 inch devices and a separate iPad pocket, plus a shoe compartment and a front zippered flap pocket. A hard board panel in the base supports the bag when you set it down on a platform.
Detachable adjustable straps between 30 and 52 inches let it carry as a backpack, tote, or shoulder bag, and a back zippered pocket hides the stowed straps so the bag looks clean in tote mode. Owners report it holding up across train, plane, and ship travel.
Comfortable even when fully loaded, the structured base and wide opening make it a good choice for anyone who treats a bag like furniture at a hostel rather than a hiking tool.
Who this bag suits
This suits travellers who want a bag that looks less synthetic and needs no separate rain cover for light weather. The tote conversion is genuinely useful in places where a backpack invites unwanted attention.
It also suits anyone carrying multiple devices, since the laptop sleeve and separate iPad pocket keep a tablet from pressing against a laptop screen.
Where it falls short
At 4.43 pounds empty this is the heaviest bag we tested, and that cost lands on your body on long walking days. The material is also listed as not water resistant, so it is a poor match for wet climates.
The fixed USB pass-through cable is slow and low quality, and several owners run their own cable instead. The soft unstructured body can fold in half when packed lightly, and the rigid interior pouches become awkward once the main compartment is full.
How to Choose a Travel Backpack Under 150
Start with trip length, then work backwards. A two to four day trip needs 25 to 35L, a week needs 35 to 45L, and anything beyond two weeks pushes toward checked luggage regardless of budget. Every bag in this list sits between 35L and 50L, which is the range that works for carry-on-only travel.
Empty weight matters more than buyers expect. It is the number that decides whether a bag feels light in an airport, and most sellers in this bracket hide it. Weigh the bags in this group and you get roughly one kilogram for the MATEIN and the AREYTECO, about two pounds for the Rcrirth and the Osprey Daylite, and more than three pounds for the Lumesner, the Tolaccea, and the WITZMAN.
Laptop protection is the second decision. A suspended sleeve between two compartments, as on the Tolaccea, protects from both sides. A sleeve against the back panel needs a hard case inside it. A TSA-friendly sleeve that lays flat 90 to 180 degrees, as on the tomtoc, speeds up security.
Organisation is the third. Bags that include packing cubes cost you nothing extra and immediately make a 40L pack usable for a week. If you are buying a model without cubes, buy cubes before you travel, because the tomtoc and Osprey picks have minimal internal dividers by design.
Finally, look at what the brand says about hardware. YKK zippers, reinforced stitching at stress points, lockable zipper heads, and a stated warranty are the clearest signals that a budget bag will survive a few years. Our laptop and peripheral carry picks go deeper on protecting electronics in transit.
There is a price tier framework worth using. At the bottom of this budget you get capacity, pockets, and included cubes, with thin fabric and hardware as the cost. In the middle you start seeing recycled fabrics, YKK zippers, and better back panels. At the top of the range you get brand-backed warranty, stowaway harnesses, compression systems, and machine washability. Nothing below this ceiling gives you all four at once.
Carry-On Size and Airline Limits in Centimetres and Inches
Carry-on size anxiety is the most common question in travel forums, and the confusion is not your fault. Manufacturers rarely publish the packed measurement, airlines rarely publish it consistently, and the number changes when you use the expansion zipper. The safe rule is to measure the bag in its fully expanded state, then compare.
Most US and European carriers work to a cabin limit of roughly 56 by 36 by 23 cm, which is about 22 by 14 by 9 inches. Low-cost European carriers frequently enforce a smaller box around 55 by 40 by 20 cm, and several allow only a small personal item under the seat with no overhead allowance at all.
That is where the 18-inch height of the LOVEVOOK becomes decisive. The MATEIN at 19 inches, the Rcrirth at 18 inches unexpanded, and the tomtoc at 20.47 inches all sit inside common overhead limits, but the Rcrirth and LOVEVOOK are the two most likely to pass an under-seat check when packed lightly.
The 50L picks are where this gets tight. The Gieury expands toward 20 inches tall and the AREYTECO toward 19.6 inches, both of which remain workable overhead but compress the margin for error. The Osprey Porter is the tallest here at 21.7 inches, and the maker states the Tolaccea is for overhead bins only.
Our advice is to skip expansion zippers on international routes unless you need them, keep a bottle in an accessible pocket so you are not unpacking at the gate, and take a tape measure with you to your next airport. Bags with hidden harness systems, like the Osprey Porter, let you pass a sizer without a backpack on your back.
What You Give Up Under 150
Honesty matters more than hype here. Under this ceiling, the trade-offs are real and consistent across every pick in this list.
Warranty depth is the biggest one. The Vancropak states a lifetime warranty and the Osprey packs carry a lifetime luggage registration system, but most brands here offer a one-year guarantee with a claim process that routes through a support form or a social media page. Premium travel packs commonly carry lifetime guarantees with in-country repair.
Back panel and harness construction is the second. Osprey’s AirScape foam and the Tolaccea’s removable waist belt are the only real framed systems in this group. Everything else uses flat foam padding, and heavy loads on long walking days tell the difference quickly.
Material is the third. A 100 percent recycled PET shell with YKK zippers, as on the tomtoc, will outlast a coated polyester shell with generic zips. If you expect to keep one bag for a decade, buying at the top of this budget range with a recognised brand matters more than buying two cheap bags.
What you do not give up is airline compliance, laptop protection, or sensible organisation. Those are all genuinely available here, which is why a carry-on travel backpack under 150 is a reasonable place to start rather than a compromise you have to tolerate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best travel backpack under 150?
The MATEIN Carry On Backpack is the strongest all-round option at this budget. It runs 19 by 13 by 8 inches in its standard state, expands from 40L to 45L, hides its shoulder straps so it converts to a briefcase, and carries a 17-inch laptop. It is also one of the lightest bags in the group at about two pounds empty.
What is the best affordable backpack for travel?
Affordable travel backpacks at the bottom of this budget deliver capacity, pocket count, and included packing cubes, with thin fabric and basic hardware as the trade-off. The Lumesner 40L and the Vancropak 40L both include cubes and a toiletry bag, so you can pack a full week without buying organizers first. Expect a shorter service life than a branded pack costing three times more.
What is the best backpack for traveling on a plane?
For under-seat flying, choose a short bag. The LOVEVOOK at 18 by 14 by 8 inches is the shortest here and fits personal item rules on most budget carriers. For overhead-bin carry-on, the MATEIN at 19 inches and the tomtoc at 20.47 inches both clear standard international limits. Always measure your airline’s own sizer, since low-cost carriers enforce tighter boxes.
Is a 50L backpack too big for carry-on?
Usually not, but it depends on the bag shape and the airline. A 50L bag fits the overhead bin on most US and European carriers as long as it stays within roughly 56 by 36 by 23 cm. The risk comes from expandable panels: a bag that measures 19 inches collapsed can grow past the limit when expanded. Under-seat personal item use is a different matter, and most 50L packs are too large for it.
What is the best packable backpack for a trip?
A packable backpack is designed to fold into another bag for the return leg, and the best travel backpacks under 150 in this guide are not packable, since they are structured carry-on packs. If you want that feature, look for a separate packable daypack rather than compromising on a bag you will use as your main carry-on.
What is the number one travel backpack?
Among these twelve carry-on travel backpacks under 150, the MATEIN Carry On Backpack takes the top spot on the balance of rating, review volume, capacity, and airline fit. If comfort on long walking days is your top priority, the Osprey Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack 35L is the stronger pick, and if build quality matters most, the tomtoc 40L leads on materials and hardware.
Conclusion
The MATEIN Carry On Backpack is the best travel backpack under 150 for the widest range of travellers. It converts between backpack and briefcase, expands from 40L to 45L, clears carry-on sizing, and weighs about two pounds empty, which is a rare combination at this budget.
Pick the tomtoc 40L instead if material quality and hardware matter most, the LOVEVOOK if you fly under the seat, and the Osprey Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack 35L if you walk all day with a full bag. All three are excellent options in 2026, and all three sit well inside the price ceiling we set.