Collection: Carry On Backpacks

Carry On Backpacks

Carry On Backpacks

Max out your carry on packing space, even on international and budget airlines. Never pay baggage fees again.

Fit everything I needed and was super easy to store and access in the overhead during the flight.

—Townley Verified Buyer

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FAQs

What size backpack is allowed as carry on luggage in the US?

US airlines allow carry on backpacks measuring 22 × 14 × 9 inches or smaller. Tortuga carry on backpacks measure 22 × 14 × 8 inches, fitting comfortably within these limits on all major US carriers including American, Delta, United, and Southwest.

What size backpack is allowed as hand luggage on international flights?

International airlines typically allow hand luggage measuring 55 × 35 × 23 cm or smaller with weight limits of 15-22 lbs. Tortuga's 40L backpacks are 55 x 35 x 23 cm (22 × 14 × 8 inches) and meet most international carry on limits. Always check your airline's hand luggage policy before flying.

Do carry on backpacks work on budget airlines?

Budget airlines have stricter rules and often charge for carry on bags. Spirit Airlines requires carry on bags to be 22 × 18 × 10 inches with fees starting at $37 when booked online. Ryanair allows only personal items (40 × 30 × 15 cm) for free. Always check your specific budget airline's policy and purchase carry on allowance when booking to avoid any surprise fees later.

Do airlines weigh carry on backpacks?

Most US airlines don't weigh carry on bags, but international airlines often do. Weight limits range from 15-22 lbs (7-10 kg) for international flights. Tortuga backpacks weigh 3.5-4.5 lbs empty, leaving plenty of room for your belongings within typical weight restrictions.

What's the difference between a carry on and personal item backpack?

Carry on backpacks go in the overhead bin, while personal item backpacks fit under the seat in front of you. On most flights, you're allowed one of each. Personal items must be smaller and are included free on all airlines, while some budget carriers and Basic Economy tickets charge extra for overhead bin access.

Is a backpack a carry on?

Yes, a backpack can be a carry on if it meets airline size limits. Backpacks measuring 22 × 14 × 9 inches or smaller count as carry on luggage and can go in the overhead bin. Tortuga's 40L carry on backpacks are specifically designed to meet these requirements for hassle-free travel.

Experienced travelers fly carry-on-only. They always bring their bag on the plane and never pay to check luggage. 

Carry on backpacks let you travel fast and light. You'll have less to carry and less to worry about. You'll land, walk right past baggage claim, and get your trip started. Plus, you'll save $50 or more on every roundtrip flight. 

When shopping for a carry on bag, make sure it has these four features:

  1. Carry-On-Sized: Your carry on must meet your airline's rules for cabin luggage. A 40L bag should always fit, even on stricter budget, European, and Asian airlines. But always check with your airline before flying. 
  2. Comfortable to Carry: If you're going to carry your bag, it must be comfortable. Choose a pack with a weight-bearing hip belt and padded shoulder straps. The hip belt will help you carry the bag with your legs instead of your shoulders to prevent neck and shoulder pain.
  3. Easy to Pack: The ideal carry on is made for travel. Your bag should carry like a backpack but open like a suitcase for easy packing, access, and organization.
  4. Built for the Road: Finally, your bag should be tough enough to handle all of the adventures you'll be taking it on. Invest in the best.

Shop Tortuga's award-winning carry on travel backpacks above.