WANDRD Transit Travel Backpack Is Loaded With Smart Storage. It's the Best Personal Item You Can Bring on a Plane

Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Prices are accurate and items in stock at time of publishing.

When you’re traveling with a backpack—whether it’s your carry-on or your personal item on-flight—you want something sleek and streamlined. The last thing you want is to look like a child or waste time rooting around to find your eye mask or earbuds. I reviewed countless options while testing the best travel luggage for the 2026 Men's Journal Travel Awards.

TheWANDRD Transit Travel Backpack has you covered on all fronts. Here's why it's my top pick for best travel backpack.

Why WANDRD Transit Travel Backpack Is the Best Travel Backpack

Available in black or Wasatch Green, and 35L and 45L sizes, this minimalist-looking travel companion has a slew of smartly positioned pockets and compartments to keep your items accessible and organized when you’re on the move. My favorite nook? The front organization pocket has two mesh pockets and a divider, so you’re no longer fumbling for your ID or earbuds. You can also expand this pack with up to five liters of expansion (ideal for the trip home), and it’s made with waterproof materials and weather-resistant zippers to withstand the elements.

WANDRD Transit Travel Backpack Specs

• Capacity: Up to 45L with expandable storage for longer trips
• Tech Compatible: Fits up to 16" laptop + dedicated tablet sleeve
• Accessibility: Clamshell (suitcase-style) opening for easy packing
• Build quality: Weather-resistant materials with durable, lockable zippers
• Comfort & travel features: Padded straps, breathable back panel, luggage pass-through

Why You Should Trust Me

To evaluate the pieces on this list, I tested as many carry-on bags, backpacks, and duffels as possible. I considered factors like bulkiness, maneuverability, durability, laptop padding, strap comfort, packing space, interior layout, and ease of opening. I also coordinated with brand representatives to learn more about the specs of each carry-on suitcase and pored over dozens of customer reviews to see what real-world users had to say about their experiences.