Flying with carry-on luggage can be tricky, especially when overhead bins fill up fast. A slim backpack that fits perfectly under your seat solves this problem while keeping your important items within reach. These carefully selected backpacks combine smart design with practical storage to make your travel experience smoother and more organized.
1. Thule Subterra 2 27L Backpack
Forbes recognized this Swedish-engineered marvel as a top underseat choice for good reason. The 27-liter capacity strikes that sweet spot between spaciousness and compactness, allowing you to pack essentials without creating an unwieldy bulk.
Smart interior organization keeps everything in its place, preventing awkward bulging that might not fit under seats. The streamlined profile slides effortlessly into tight spaces while maintaining easy access to your belongings throughout the flight.
2. Briggs & Riley ZDX Cargo Backpack
Reviewed magazine crowned this the “best underseat luggage” thanks to its brilliant space management and low-profile construction. The packable design compresses beautifully when needed, making tight airplane quarters feel less cramped.
Thoughtful organization prevents unexpected bulging that could ruin your underseat plans. Every pocket and compartment serves a purpose, ensuring your packed items stay exactly where you put them during turbulence and handling.
3. Tom Bihn Techonaut 30
This shape-shifting wonder transforms from backpack to duffel mode with stowable straps that tuck away completely. When space gets tight, those hidden straps create an even more compact profile for easier underseat sliding.
Reviewed praised its versatility, and travelers love how the dual-mode design adapts to different situations. Whether you’re navigating crowded aisles or storing it under your seat, this pack adjusts to make your journey more comfortable.
4. Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack
Built like a tank but shaped like a dream, this Reviewed favorite combines durability with smart proportions. The firm shell construction maintains its shape beautifully, preventing annoying spillage into neighboring foot space during flights.
That sturdy build quality means it won’t sag or bulge unexpectedly, keeping within airline dimensions consistently. The manageable 28-liter size offers plenty of room for travel essentials while staying slim enough for underseat storage on various aircraft types.
5. Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L
Pretravels highlighted this photographer-favorite for its compact 20-liter size and ingenious interior layout. The smaller capacity actually works in your favor, making it nearly impossible to overstuff and lose that crucial slim profile.
Smart compartment design maximizes every inch without adding bulk, perfect for keeping essentials organized and accessible. The thoughtful engineering ensures it slides under seats effortlessly while providing quick access to cameras, electronics, and travel documents during your flight.