What Size Backpack Is Best for Carry-On Travel?

Choosing the right backpack size can completely change your travel experience. A bag that is too large becomes heavy and difficult to carry, while a bag that is too small may not hold everything you need.

For travelers who prefer minimalist travel, the goal is simple: bring everything you need while keeping your bag small enough to use as carry-on luggage.

After traveling across 96 countries, many experienced travelers agree that the ideal backpack size sits between 30L and 40L.

Why Backpack Size Matters

The size of your backpack affects several important aspects of travel.

A larger backpack might allow more storage, but it also becomes heavier and harder to carry through airports and city streets.

Smaller backpacks encourage minimalist packing and allow travelers to move faster.

This is why experienced travelers prefer backpacks designed specifically for carry-on travel.

A properly sized backpack makes airport travel much easier.

Common Backpack Sizes Explained

20L–25L Backpacks

These backpacks work well for day trips or very short travel. However, they are usually too small for extended trips.

30L–35L Backpacks

This range is considered the sweet spot for carry-on travel. It provides enough space for clothing, electronics, and essentials without becoming bulky.

40L–45L Backpacks

These backpacks offer more storage but may exceed airline carry-on limits depending on the airline.

Why 35L Is the Ideal Travel Backpack Size

A 35L backpack offers the perfect balance between storage capacity and portability.

It allows travelers to pack everything needed for a trip while still maintaining mobility.

Many experienced travelers find that once they begin packing efficiently, 35 liters is more than enough.

Packing cubes help maximize space inside a 35L backpack.

Why the TREKARIUS 35L Travel Pack Was Designed This Size

The TREKARIUS 35L Travel Pack was designed specifically for travelers who want a carry-on optimized backpack.

Instead of building an oversized bag, the focus was on creating a pack that balances storage capacity with mobility.

The pack includes:

• Clamshell suitcase-style opening
• Three hidden security pockets
• 600D ripstop nylon construction
• Organized internal compartments
• Carry-on compliant dimensions

These features make it particularly useful for travelers who move frequently between airports, cities, and countries.

What Fits Inside a 35L Backpack

With efficient packing, a 35L backpack can easily hold:

• 4–5 shirts
• 2 pairs of pants
• underwear and socks
• lightweight jacket
• laptop or tablet
• toiletries
• camera gear

The TREKARIUS 35L Travel Pack was designed for carry-on travel.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right backpack size can dramatically improve your travel experience.

For most travelers, backpacks between 30L and 40L provide the ideal balance between capacity and mobility.

If you're looking for a backpack designed specifically for this style of travel, the TREKARIUS 35L Travel Pack offers strong durability, hidden security pockets, and excellent value.