Best carry-on bags?

[scarvesandcardigans]

Hi all!

So as I'm in the midst of visiting schools, I have been scheduling flights, and want to know if anyone has any recommendations for carry-on travel bags. I prefer backpacks with lots of room (but without bells and whistles) that are convenient for a lot foot travel, and that aren't too cumbersome. I also want to be able to use this bag not just for academic travel, but also for things like exploring cities or places on weekends, like if I took a weekend trip to NYC. 

I was wondering if anyone has a bag that they just really love when they're traveling, or any tips for light traveling as an academic which might come in handy for weekends away, conferences, etc. 

Thanks!

[Sigaba]

For packs, I recommend the GORUCK GR 1 (26 l), the Arcteryx Sebring 25, the Arcteryx LEAF Khard 30, and the Patagonia Petrolia. You can find other recommendations at Carryology.

While the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 has a legion of admirers, I don't recommend that backpack. Its brilliant design is compromised by the lack of a frame sheet and a back panel that simply doesn't breath.

For packing tips, I recommend the blog Pack Light. Go Fast.

Perhaps the single best piece of advice I would offer is underwear by Duluth Trading Company or ExOfficio and socks by Darn Tough. 

HTH