9 Best Travel Backpacks for Under Seat Storage 2026

This no-nonsense workhorse redefines what a budget-friendly travel backpack can achieve. With its airline-approved 18”H x 13.5”L x 8”W silhouette, the MATEIN fits snugly under nearly every major carrier’s seat—Spirit, Frontier, JetBlue, you name it—making it a go-to for fee-averse flyers. What truly sets it apart is the TSA-friendly 90–180° lay-flat opening, which turns security checks into a breeze by letting you fan out contents without dumping everything out. Add in the dedicated 17” laptop sleeve with lockable zippers and external USB charging port, and you’ve got a pack built for the modern traveler who values organization, accessibility, and peace of mind.

In real-world use, the MATEIN shines during short trips and business commutes. Its four main compartments offer suitcase-like organization, with enough room for a 2–3 day wardrobe, toiletries, and tech gear. The bottom shoe compartment, while slightly encroaching on main space, keeps dirty soles isolated—a rare feature at this price. The high-density polyester shell shrugs off light rain, and the breathable mesh back panel with padded straps ensures comfort even when fully loaded. However, the lack of compression straps means bulky items can make the bag feel top-heavy, and the side water bottle pocket tends to sag when overstuffed.

Compared to slimmer rivals like the Kono or HOTOR models, the MATEIN trades a bit of sleekness for maximum capacity and utility. It’s not the lightest, but it’s one of the most fully-featured under-seat packs available. Ideal for frequent flyers, weekend warriors, and business travelers who need a single bag that does it all, it outguns similarly priced options with its laptop protection, shoe storage, and charging port—offering more bang for the buck than most can claim.

Meet the featherweight champion of under-seat travel: the HOTOR backpack, where ultra-light comfort meets smart design. Weighing just 1.2 lbs, this 17.3” tall pack slips effortlessly under any airline seat while still offering suitcase-style access via its wide-opening main compartment. Its Oxford fabric shell resists water and abrasions, and the dust-proof invisible zippers glide smoothly even after repeated use—key for travelers tired of snagged closures. Designed for 3–5 day trips, it’s a minimalist’s dream: clean lines, no excess bulk, and just enough structure to stay upright.

On the move, the HOTOR proves its worth. The padded 15.6” laptop sleeve sits snugly against the back, and the quick-access outer pocket is perfect for passports or boarding passes. The ventilated back panel and soft shoulder straps make it surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear, even in crowded terminals. We especially appreciate the wet/dry pocket, a rare feature that keeps damp gym clothes or swimsuits from contaminating clean gear. That said, the lack of a USB port or AirTag pocket feels like a missed opportunity, and the main compartment lacks internal dividers, making smaller items easy to lose.

When stacked against the MATEIN or Taygeer, the HOTOR wins on weight and wearability, but sacrifices tech conveniences and expandability. It’s the ideal pick for minimalist travelers, students, and light packers who prioritize comfort and durability over gadget integration. While it doesn’t offer the same storage depth as bulkier models, it delivers better long-term wear comfort than most under-seat backpacks—a quiet performer that excels where it matters.

If you’re after maximum packing flexibility in a carry-on shell, the Sirmaeed backpack is a game-changer with its 50L expandable capacity. Starting at a standard under-seat size, it expands by 5 cm to swallow clothes, camera gear, or souvenirs—perfect for return trips when you’ve bought more than planned. The TSA-approved 180° lay-flat opening speeds up security checks, while the anti-theft back pocket keeps passports and cards close to your body. With dual top and side handles plus adjustable straps, it converts seamlessly from backpack to handbag, ideal for travelers who hate being locked into one carry style.

In testing, the Sirmaeed handled heavy loads with surprising grace, thanks to its padded carry handles and stable structure. The water-resistant fabric held up well during sudden downpours, and the luggage strap integrated cleanly with rolling suitcases. However, when expanded, it no longer fits under most airline seats, forcing overhead storage—defeating the under-seat advantage. The lack of a dedicated shoe or wet pocket also limits its organization, and the USB port is absent, a surprising omission given its premium price.

Compared to the Kono or ECOHUB, the Sirmaeed stands alone in expandability, but that feature comes with trade-offs. It’s best suited for international travelers, photographers, or those returning with extra baggage, not for strict under-seat users. While it offers more volume than the Taygeer or BAGSMART, it’s less optimized for daily airport efficiency—a powerhouse pack with a niche purpose, trading portability for capacity.

The Kono backpack quietly dominates as the most balanced under-seat companion we’ve tested. At just 1.1 lbs and 20L, it hits the sweet spot between minimalist portability and functional storage, all while meeting every major airline’s personal item rules. Its 15.7”H x 9.9”L x 7.9”W frame slips under seats with room to spare, and the reflective shoulder strap adds safety in dim terminals—a small but brilliant touch. The suitcase-style main compartment makes packing intuitive, and the front passport pocket ensures quick access, eliminating frantic searches at boarding gates.

Performance-wise, the Kono delivers reliability without fanfare. The water-resistant polyester handles light rain, and the rear trolley sleeve integrates smoothly with rolling luggage. It’s not the most feature-packed, but every element serves a purpose: the top and side handles offer multiple carry options, and the internal pocket layout keeps essentials sorted. That said, the 20L capacity limits it to 1–2 day trips, and there’s no shoe or tech pocket, making it less ideal for gym-goers or digital nomads.

Against the ECOHUB or Taygeer, the Kono wins on simplicity and weight, though it lacks their tech extras. It’s the perfect pick for business travelers, minimalist flyers, and urban commuters who want a no-fuss, always-ready bag. While it doesn’t offer USB charging or AirTag tracking, it outperforms in core functionality and ease of use—a masterclass in less-is-more travel design.

The ECOHUB backpack is a triumph of organization, engineered for travelers who hate digging through chaos. With a staggering 16 pockets across its 25L body, including a dedicated AirTag slot, it turns packing into a system rather than a scramble. Its 17” x 10” x 9” profile fits under seats on United, Spirit, and Frontier, and the 180° lay-flat opening makes security checks painless. Crafted from 50% recycled materials, it’s one of the few eco-conscious packs that doesn’t sacrifice durability—ripstop stitching and SBS zippers ensure long-term resilience.

In real use, the ECOHUB impresses with laser-focused compartmentalization. The foam-padded, suspended laptop sleeve protects devices up to 15.6”, and the side compression straps let you shrink the bag when half-full. The high-elasticity water bottle pocket holds even oversized tumblers securely. However, the sheer number of pockets can feel overwhelming for minimal packers, and the main compartment lacks internal dividers, so loose items still shift around.

Versus the MATEIN or Taygeer, the ECOHUB wins on organization and sustainability, though it’s pricier. It’s ideal for tech-savvy travelers, digital nomads, and eco-conscious flyers who want tracking, protection, and planet-friendly materials. While it doesn’t have a shoe compartment, it offers better smart storage than any other under-seat pack—a highly evolved organizer in backpack form.

The Taygeer backpack is a tech-lover’s dream, built for those who refuse to run out of battery mid-flight. Its external USB charging port, paired with a built-in cable, lets you power devices on the go—just plug in your power bank inside. With 35L capacity and nine inner pockets, it offers serious storage for a weekender, while still fitting under seats or in overhead bins. The 180° zipper opening speeds security checks, and the dual-use design—backpack, duffle, or handbag—adds unmatched versatility.

In daily use, the Taygeer shines for hybrid travelers. The padded 15.6” laptop and 12.9” iPad sleeves keep gear safe, and the luggage strap integrates flawlessly with rolling bags. The soft, water-resistant fabric handles spills well, and the top and side handles make lifting effortless. But the USB port lacks internal cable management, leading to tangles, and the lack of a shoe or wet pocket feels like a misstep for a bag this advanced.

Compared to the MATEIN or BAGSMART, the Taygeer wins on tech integration and conversion flexibility, though it skips key storage features. It’s perfect for digital nomads, business travelers, and gift-givers who want charging convenience and multi-role functionality. While it doesn’t offer the organization of the ECOHUB or shoe storage of the BAGSMART, it delivers more tech convenience than any other under-seat pack.

The BAGSMART backpack is a style-savvy organizer built for women who want function without sacrificing flair. Its 30L capacity and 17.3” height meet airline limits while offering room for clothes, a 15.6” laptop, and accessories. The standout? A side shoe compartment that keeps footwear separate and clean—ideal for gym-goers or those landing directly into meetings. Plus, transparent PVC jewelry pockets add a thoughtful touch, letting you spot rings or earrings instantly.

On the move, the padded straps and breathable mesh back make it comfortable even when fully loaded. The luggage strap slides smoothly over trolley handles, and the water-resistant fabric shrugs off drizzle. However, the chocolate-colored fabric shows water spots easily, and the lack of an AirTag pocket or USB port feels outdated for the price. The main compartment also lacks compression straps, so contents shift during transit.

Against the MATEIN or Taygeer, the BAGSMART wins on aesthetic and shoe storage, though it lags in tech features. It’s ideal for female travelers, nurses, teachers, and style-conscious commuters who need shoe separation and jewelry organization. While it doesn’t offer the charging port of the Taygeer or tracking of the ECOHUB, it delivers better specialized storage for women’s needs—a fashion-functional hybrid with real purpose.

Security meets practicality in the MATEIN Anti Theft backpack, a vigilant traveler’s ally with 2-in-1 convenience. Its collapsible shoe compartment tucks away when unused, preserving space—unlike fixed pockets that waste room. The anti-theft back pocket lies flat against your body, deterring pickpockets in crowded terminals. With dual zippers, a USB port, and TSA-compliant 17” x 11” x 7.5” size, it fits under seats on Spirit, Frontier, and Delta, while the full-opening design speeds security checks.

In testing, the lightweight fabric and padded straps made it comfortable for extended wear, and the compression chest strap reduced shoulder strain on long walks. The electronic organizer bag kept cables and cosmetics tidy, and the luggage strap worked seamlessly with rolling suitcases. However, the shoe pocket lacks ventilation, leading to odor buildup, and the USB cable isn’t secured internally, causing tangling.

Compared to the BAGSMART or HOTOR, this MATEIN model wins on security and shoe flexibility, though it’s slightly bulkier. It’s perfect for urban travelers, international flyers, and safety-conscious users who want shoe storage and theft protection. While it doesn’t offer the eco-focus of the ECOHUB or expandability of the Sirmaeed, it delivers unmatched security and smart storage in one package.

The ZOMFELT backpack is a budget powerhouse, proving you don’t need to spend much to travel smart. At just 1.76 lbs, it’s one of the lightest full-featured packs in the lineup, with a 180° lay-flat design for TSA checks and a dedicated 15.6” laptop sleeve. Its high-density wet pocket keeps damp towels or gym clothes isolated—a rare find at this price. And with padded straps and a trolley sleeve, it’s built for comfort and convenience, not just cost-cutting.

In real-world use, it handles weekend trips and daily commutes with ease. The multiple pockets keep items sorted, and the gender-neutral black design suits any traveler. However, the zippers feel less robust than premium models, and the fabric, while water-resistant, lacks the durability of Oxford or ripstop. The lack of USB port or AirTag slot also limits its appeal for tech-focused users.

Stacked against the HOTOR or Kono, the ZOMFELT offers similar features at a lower cost, making it the best value pick. It’s ideal for students, budget travelers, and occasional flyers who want function without frills. While it doesn’t match the organization of the ECOHUB or security of the MATEIN anti-theft model, it delivers core features at a price that’s hard to beat.