Carry on backpack - get ready for the plane and pack like a pro

Once you've traveled with a carry-on backpack, it's hard to go back. You get the freedom of having everything close to you, a better overview of your belongings, and a packing that can be kept light and simple. Here's a clear overview of what makes a good carry-on backpack, how to pack smart, and which travel gear provides the most value in your carry-on.

A carry-on backpack should first and foremost fit the airline's hand luggage allowance. Look for a single main compartment so you can pack like a suitcase, and preferably several smaller compartments for things you use frequently on the go. Comfort also matters: shoulder straps, back length and hip belt can make a noticeable difference when you're walking longer distances from transport to overnight accommodation.

Choose materials that can withstand being placed on floors and pushed into luggage racks, and prioritize a construction that holds its shape so you avoid everything collapsing.

When packing a carry-on, it’s all about taking fewer things, but choosing the right ones. Start with items that can be used multiple times and don’t take up much space. A quick-drying towel is a classic example because it can be used after a shower, workout, or beach and is ready to go again quickly. Look for a solution that’s lightweight and compact so it doesn’t take up space from your clothes and electronics.

A concrete choice could be OUTDOOR Towels , which are made to be easy to pack and practical when traveling with limited space.

In a carry-on backpack, moisture and odor are some of the things that can quickly become annoying. Here, a towel with antibacterial treatment provides a real advantage on trips where you typically wash less often. Nordifakt uses Polygiene StayFresh technology, which is a silver-based textile treatment that prevents 99.9% of bacteria from growing on the textile. This helps keep the towel fresher for longer and can reduce the need for washing, which also saves water and energy.

When drying the towel, the point is not to wring it, but to hang it up so it can dry effectively.

If you're packing ultralight, a smaller towel may still be enough to dry you off. If you prefer the comfort of being able to wrap yourself in it, a larger towel is more comfortable, but also takes up more space in your bag.

Small choices make a big difference in a carry-on backpack. Prioritize equipment that can be reused many times on the same trip and that doesn't require much maintenance. Also consider products that are packaged without unnecessary packaging, so you avoid unnecessary volume right from the start.

If you want to gather your set-up in one place and find accessories that fit in your carry-on, you can start at All Products , where you can choose equipment according to your needs and pack tanks rather than filling up your bag “just in case”.

Minimalist packing isn't about missing anything, it's about being able to find everything quickly. Put the things you use most often at the top or in an easily accessible compartment: toiletries, chargers, and an extra layer. Pack the rest tightly and stably so that the backpack feels balanced on your back. Keeping the volume down and the weight reasonable makes your carry-on backpack not only easier to lift, but also more enjoyable to travel with from A to B.