Travel is nowhere near as affordable as it used to be and this especially true of flights. Inflation, green-taxes and reduced competition have all encouraged airlines to increase their seat prices by over 20% over the last 5 years. And there is more, not only are flight prices themselves going up but airlines are increasingly charging for ‘extras’ such as on board meals and checked bags.
This is why a good cabin bag is now One of the most important pieces of your travel gear. If chosen correctly a good cabin bag can save you time, hassle, and even money.
But with so, so many options on the market, how do you know which one to choose?
From size and weight restrictions to durability and style, there are a few key factors to consider when selecting the right bag for your travels. Whether you’re a weekend jet-setter or a long-haul adventurer, finding the perfect cabin bag can make or break your journey. In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the world of cabin bags and pick the one that best suits your needs.
Quick Answers…These Are The Best Cabin Bags In The World
Best For Frequent Flyers – TropicFeel Shell Backpack
Best For Budget Travellers – CabinZero Classic 28L
Most Stylish – Nomatic Travel Pack
Best For Business Travel – Tortuga Travel Pack
Most Adventure Ready – Osprey Fairview/Fairpoint
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Over the past decade of travelling, I reckon I have tried over 2 dozen different cabin bags. While I was kinda tempted to list, rank, rate and review them all, the simple fact is that there is no real need as I have whittled it down to just 5 of the very best – and I am quite certain that there is one for everybody here.
The Best for Frequent Flyers: TropicFeel Shell Backpack
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The TropicFeel Shell Backpack is a versatile, expandable backpack that’s perfect for frequent travellers who value flexibility. It comes with a built-in wardrobe-cum-packing cube which you can simply lift out and hang, saving time on packing and unpacking.
The TropicFeel Shell Backpack is ideal for frequent flyers thanks to its modular design, allowing for smarter packing. Its lightweight, weather-resistant materials and minimalist style also make it a reliable, functional, and stylish choice.
The bag’s expandable capacity (22L to 40L!) and built-in wardrobe systems add convenience for organising the contents of your bag. This way you can make sure it’s packed correctly for each flight you take it on.
However, it is more expensive than other 40L options and has limited quick-access pockets. It can also feel bulky when fully expanded.
- Versatile and expandable
- Durable, weather-resistant fabric
- Easy organisation with internal compartments
- Pricey
- No dedicated laptop sleeve
- Bulkier when expanded
The Best for Budget Travelers: Cabin Zero Classic 28L
The CabinZero Classic 28L is an affordable, no-frills backpack that’s perfect for budget-conscious travellers. It’s lightweight, compact, and fits perfectly under the seat making it ideal for carry-on use on any airline. This bag is therefore ideal for those looking for a practical solution without breaking the bank.
The CabinZero Classic 28L is a fantastic option for budget travellers due to its simple design and affordability. It’s lightweight yet durable, providing enough space for short trips while fitting within airline carry-on limits.
The bag features a water-resistant coating, weighs just 600g, and comes in a variety of colours. However, it lacks internal organisation, has minimal padding in the shoulder straps, and offers limited expansion capabilities. Having said that, it’s a great everyday backpack that does what it says it will/
- Affordable
- Lightweight and compact
- Water-resistant
- Basic design with few compartments
- Uncomfortable straps for long use
- No expandability
The Best for Stylish Travellers: Nomatic Travel Pack
For those who prioritise style without sacrificing function, the Nomatic Travel Pack delivers a sleek and modern design. It’s built for serious travellers who want their bag to look as good as it performs. With smart compartments and a minimalist, uber-cool aesthetic, it’s ideal for stylish globetrotters.
The Nomatic Travel Pack is designed for travellers who prioritise both style and organisation capabilities. With awesome features like RFID-blocking pockets for added security, a water-resistant exterior, and magnetic storage compartments, it keeps your belongings safe and easily accessible while maintaining that suave appearance.
However, it’s heavier than other models, comes with a much higher price tag, and at just 20L, offers very limited expansion options. I do think it is one of the best Nomatic bags on the market, regardless of it’s minor faults.
- Stylish design
- High-end materials
- Great organisation features
- Pricey
- Heavier than other backpacks
- Only 20L…
The Best for Business Travelers: Tortuga Travel Pack
The lovely Tortuga Travel Pack is designed for business travellers who need to pack efficiently and stay organised on the go. With its clamshell opening, multiple compartments, and sleek design, this bag is a favourite among professionals – and it’s also my personal favourite carry-on pack on the market.
The Tortuga Travel Pack is perfect bag for business travellers as it offers ample space for essentials like a padded laptop compartment and multiple pockets for organising tech gear and documents. Its clamshell design also allows for easy packing, and it fits within most airline carry-on limits.
While highly functional, it comes at a higher price point (but it’s worth it..) and may be too large for the minimalist packers out there.
- Excellent organisation for business items
- Padded laptop compartment
- Spacious interior
- Bulky
- Expensive
- Less stylish than other bags
The Best for Adventurers: Osprey Fairview/Fairpoint
The Osprey Fairview/Fairpoint is a rugged and versatile backpack designed for adventurers. Built to withstand the rigours of travel and the outdoors, it’s perfect for those who need a durable, comfortable, and adventure-ready bag that still fits as a carry-on for most airlines.
The Osprey Fairview/Fairpoint is ideal for adventurers, offering a perfect balance of durability and comfort. With padded straps, hip belts, and ample pockets for gear, it’s designed for outdoor enthusiasts tackling hiking trips or international adventures and has been one of my favourite Osprey backpacks for a long time. The adjustable torso length ensures a great fit, while its sturdy materials and comfortable padding make it ideal for carrying over long periods.
However, it is a bit heavier than some carry-ons, lacks the sleek design of urban backpacks, and may feel a touch too large for shorter trips.
- Built for comfort during long treks
- Durable and rugged materials
- Great organisational features
- Heavy
- Not the most stylish
- Can be too large for light packers
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Size and Dimensions
Airline restrictions really do vary, and it’s important to choose a cabin bag that meets the carry-on size limits for your preferred airlines. Also, remember that there are 2 types of cabin bags – smaller ones that go under the seat and the larger ones that go up into the overhead cabin.
Most allow bags up to 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 inches) in the overhead, but always, always, ALWAYS check with your airline beforehand in order to avoid nasty surprises. (Read: Ryanair carry-on sizes!)
Weight
A lightweight cabin bag allows you to pack more without exceeding the airline weight limit but may begin to show signs of strain if you over-pack it.
Always look for bags that balance weight and durability, as some of the lightest options can compromise on materials.
Durability
Whether you prefer a hard shell or a soft shell, durability is key.
Hard-shell bags offer better protection for fragile items, while soft-shell bags are generally lighter and more flexible. As well as the main material pay close attention to the quality of the zips and pockets and check how weather-resistant a pack is as this can get you a few more years of use.
Functionality
Consider features like compartments, pockets, expandability, and wheels. Do you want or need these extra features? Does the pack have enough storage for your needs? Is it easy to manoeuvre on all surfaces?
Style
Finally, while functionality is important, style shouldn’t be overlooked. Your cabin bag is a reflection of your personal taste, and happily these days many options on the market combine both style and practicality.
Pros and Cons of Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell Cabin Bags
Hard Shell:
- Pros: Better protection for fragile items, water-resistant, stylish
- Cons: Heavier, less flexible for packing, can crack under pressure
Soft Shell:
- Pros: Lightweight, flexible, expandable
- Cons: Less protection, more vulnerable to water damage
Frequently Asked Questions About Cabin Bags
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Cabin Bag for Your Next Trip
In summary, choosing the best cabin bag is all about finding the right balance between size, weight, durability, and functionality. At the end of the day, the perfect bag for you depends on how and where you travel.
Before making your final decision, think about your travel habits and needs, and don’t be afraid to invest in a quality cabin bag that will last for years.
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