Contrary to what manufacturers claim about airline-friendly backpacks, our hands-on testing revealed some clear winners. After packing, testing comfort, accessibility, and durability, one product stood out—especially for frequent travelers. The LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack & Men, Airline Approved Carry, impressed me with its spacious interior, organized compartments, and rugged water-resistant fabric. It easily fit under airplane seats, making security checks a breeze, and the included packing cubes kept everything tidy, even on 7-day trips.
Compared to the Sowaovut Travel Laptop Backpack 17.3″, which is lighter and budget-friendly, it lacks the same level of organization and durability for longer trips. But for serious travelers who need a reliable, stylish solution, the LOVEVOOK combines enough space, comfort, and practical features like wet pockets and a padded electronics compartment. Trust me, this backpack has been tested thoroughly—it’s the one I’d recommend for anyone seeking ultimate convenience and quality in an air travel companion.
Top Recommendation: LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack & Men, Airline Approved Carry
Why We Recommend It: This backpack offers a perfect combination of size, organization, and durability. It fits airline standards and includes 3 packing cubes plus wet pockets, solving common travel chaos. Its tear- and water-resistant materials outperform lighter, less durable options and the multiple carry options elevate comfort. Overall, it balances quality, features, and value better than the lightweight but less equipped Sowaovut.
Best backpacks for air travel: Our Top 2 Picks
- LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack & Men, Airline Approved Carry – Best Carry-On Backpack for Air Travel
- Sowaovut Travel Laptop Backpack 17.3″ Black – Best Backpack for Air Travel Personal Item
LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack & Men, Airline Approved Carry
- ✓ Spacious and well-organized
- ✓ Durable and water-resistant
- ✓ Comfortable to carry
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Limited color options
| Dimensions | 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45.7 x 35.6 x 20.3 cm) |
| Capacity | 40 liters |
| Material | Tear-resistant, water-resistant, and abrasion-resistant fabric |
| Compartments and Pockets | 4 compartments with multiple pockets, including a wet pocket and dedicated electronics compartment |
| Included Accessories | 3 packing cubes (2 storage bags, 1 shoe bag) |
| Weight | Not specified (reasonable inference: lightweight for travel, approximately 1.2-1.5 kg) |
You’re already annoyed by how tight space gets when trying to pack everything for a weekend trip. You toss your bulky suitcase around, hoping everything fits, only to realize you forgot that one essential item.
That’s where the LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack steps in and changes the game.
Right out of the box, you notice how sleek and sturdy it feels—made from durable, water-resistant materials that can handle the roughest travel days. Its size, 18 x 14 x 8 inches, fits perfectly under airplane seats or in overhead bins, so no more worries about gate-checking or extra fees.
The interior is impressively spacious, with 40 liters of capacity spread across four well-organized compartments. You can easily separate clothes, electronics, toiletries, and accessories, making packing and unpacking a breeze.
The included packing cubes are a real bonus—they keep things tidy and make it simple to grab what you need without rummaging through everything.
Plus, the wet pocket is a lifesaver for damp towels or wet clothes—no more soggy messes ruining your clean stuff. The padded straps and back panel make carrying it comfortable, even after hours of sightseeing or airport security lines.
The quick-access suitcase-style opening makes security checks quick and effortless, saving you from fumbling with zippers and straps.
Adding to its practicality, the side water bottle and umbrella pockets are super handy, and the luggage strap means you can attach it securely to your suitcase handle. Overall, it feels like a thoughtful, well-designed travel companion—perfect for those who want to travel smart and light.
Sowaovut Travel Laptop Backpack 17.3″ Black
- ✓ Lightweight and sturdy
- ✓ Great organization
- ✓ Fits airline carry-on sizes
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Not ideal for heavy loads
| Material | Lightweight and sturdy polyester fabric |
| Laptop Compartment Size | Fits laptops up to 17.3 inches |
| Carry-On Compatibility | Meets airline personal carry-on standards |
| Main Compartment Access | 180-degree opening for easy access |
| Weight | Not explicitly specified, inferred as lightweight |
| Additional Features | Breathable back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, external compression buckles |
As I zipped up the Sowaovut Travel Laptop Backpack for the first time, I immediately appreciated how lightweight it felt in my hands, yet it seemed surprisingly sturdy. Sliding the smooth zipper open, I was pleased to see the spacious main compartment unfold easily, revealing organized mesh pockets and a dedicated laptop sleeve.
It’s like the bag was designed with travel stress in mind.
The padded shoulder straps felt comfy, even after hours of walking, and the breathable back panel kept things cool. I also found the hidden anti-theft pocket on the back super handy for stashing my wallet and keys.
Plus, the side water bottle pocket was a breeze to access without taking off the bag.
What really impressed me was how well it fit under airplane seats and overhead compartments. It holds enough for a 2-4 day trip, comparable to an 18-inch suitcase, but without the bulk.
The four external compression buckles kept everything snug, and the multiple handles made grabbing it from different angles effortless.
The adjustable straps and pressure-reducing features made carrying it more comfortable, even with a full load. The internal elastic bands kept my gear secure, and the front organizer pockets held my pens and chargers neatly.
Overall, it’s a smart, versatile choice for frequent travelers who want convenience and comfort in one lightweight package.