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Thule Aion Backpack

4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 401 ratings

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This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.
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Manufactured using processes that reduce the risk of negative environmental impact.
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Bluesign products are made with safer chemicals, fewer resources, and less energy. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions at production sites. Bluesign system partners include chemical companies, material manufacturers, and brands in the textile supply chain. They reduce impacts in five areas: resource use, air and water pollution, worker health and safety, and consumer safety. They also identify options to use water and energy more efficiently and only use chemicals, processes, materials and products that are safer for the environment, workers and customers.

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Price: $154.99 $199.95 Free Returns on some sizes and colors
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Color: Black
Size: Select Size
  • 100% Polyester
  • Imported
  • Made with bluesign approved, 100% recycled polyester fabrics and a waxed canvas with a PFC free durable water-resistant coating
  • Expands from a 28L daypack to a 32L travel backpack for 15% more packable space
  • TPU divider helps keep items separated during travel, is easy to clean, and tucks away when not in use
  • Zippered top pocket keeps small items secure, organized and within reach
  • Thule Aion Sling Bag doubles as a supportive hipbelt (sold separately)
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Sustainability features

Sustainability features

This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.

Manufacturing practices

Manufactured using processes that reduce the risk of negative environmental impact.

As certified by
Safer chemicals

Made with chemicals safer for human health and the environment.

As certified by
Worker well-being

Manufactured on farms or in facilities that protect the rights and/or health of workers.

As certified by

Top Brand: Thule

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From the manufacturer

Thule
Thule bring your life

Bring your life

Whether it's exploring the spectacular nature of the great outdoors or traveling the world with family and friends, we all have a passion for enjoying an active life.

At Thule, we share your desire to spend more time enjoying your passions - which means less time worrying about how to bring all the stuff we need. For more than 75 years, Thule has been creating solutions to simplify life's adventures. Our focus has been on developing smart, stylish products that are sound, high quality, safe, and easy to use.

Whatever your passion, whatever your pursuit. Wherever you're going, whatever you're bringing. With Thule you're free to live your active life to the fullest.

Thule test center: carriers & racks

Quality you can rely on

We’ll never know what adventures you’ll be taking your equipment on. That’s why we develop our products to manage any weather, any temperature, and any terrain in the whole world. We’ve come to the conclusion that nothing else will do. Every new product is put through temperatures of icy northern cold and burning desert heat, long sessions of intensive UV radiation, a salt chamber for corrosion endurance, several pressure and capacity tests – and finally a machine that shakes it for a lifetime’s worth, simulating two trips around the world in less than a week. Yes, the Thule Test Center is kind of brutal. But that’s the way the world is. And since we only give the sign of approval to products that have had the whole world against them (and survived it), it’s no wonder we’re international leaders in safety and durability – or that we even exceed the standards.

Product Description

Expanding from daypack to travel backpack, this multipurpose wax canvas backpack is made from 100% recycled fabrics.

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Customer reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
401 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the backpack has a spacious main compartment with good organization. It's comfortable to carry and fits standard carry-on sizing when fully packed. They appreciate the high-quality construction, sturdy holders and straps, and comfortable shoulder straps. The design is well-thought-out and sophisticated-looking.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

48 customers mention "Size"42 positive6 negative

Customers like the backpack's size. They find it spacious with an expandable main compartment that can carry more. The bag has a few pockets for organization in the front and back, with good compartment segregation. It's comfortable and suitable for 3-4-day trips. The build quality is great, with a detachable wet bag, small built-in mesh toiletry zip compartment, and a full length zip compartment.

"...It is great for carrying onto an airplane, and can also expand to carry a lot more if you don’t have to worry about it fitting under an airplane seat..." Read more

"...looks nice - expandable from 28L to 32L - few good little organization pockets in front - stash pocket in top back -..." Read more

"...The pack opens separately from a top zip or full clam-shell style and is lockable...." Read more

"...This it did magnificently. I was able to pack a a ton of clothes and other personal gear, electronics, etc. in his backpack...." Read more

38 customers mention "Travelability"38 positive0 negative

Customers find the backpack useful for travel. They say it's a great short trip backpack that works like a briefcase. It's perfect as a secondary carry-on bag to their Samsonite spinner, and it can also expand to carry more if needed. The backpack is versatile for both work trips and leisure travel, and can easily pack clothes for at least a week of travel needs.

"...It is great for carrying onto an airplane, and can also expand to carry a lot more if you don’t have to worry about it fitting under an airplane seat..." Read more

"...It has decent organization and an easy to reach outside pocket for things like chargers, keys, glasses, etc...." Read more

"...Don't get me wrong, the bag is great I only have two complaints...." Read more

"...pocket at the back is great for passport, wallet and quick access to travel documents...." Read more

33 customers mention "Build quality"25 positive8 negative

Customers appreciate the backpack's build quality. They find it durable, comfortable to carry, and the holders and straps are sturdy.

"...It is lightweight, but heavy duty. It is comfortable to wear and fits me well...." Read more

"...Overall a really solid, nice looking, functional bag w some great features and better than 95%+ of what you'll find in this size and price range." Read more

"...using it on a four day trip I think it's a well thought out and high quality product. It also fits under an airplane seat...." Read more

"...handle, it sits high and becomes top heavy so stability of the roller bag isn't great...." Read more

23 customers mention "Comfort"20 positive3 negative

Customers like the backpack's comfort. They say it feels snug on their backs, has a comfortable side carry handle, and fits standard carry-on sizing when fully packed. The bag also fits ski boots and reduces strain on the shoulders and back. It fits nicely under airline seats and the zippers function well.

"...It is lightweight, but heavy duty. It is comfortable to wear and fits me well...." Read more

"...comfortable side carry handle - fits 32oz Nalgene bottle - luggage pass through Changes I wish it had... -..." Read more

"...The shoulder straps are comfortable and have an adjustable cross strap. The above pics show these features...." Read more

"...It is not too large to go as a day pack if necessary and it is quite comfortable. The zippers and pulls are all quality...." Read more

22 customers mention "Looks"19 positive3 negative

Customers appreciate the backpack's design and spacious main compartment. They like the discreet passport pocket, well-thought-out organizer panel, and light interior. The handles and bottle holder are also mentioned as positive aspects.

"...Overall a really solid, nice looking, functional bag w some great features and better than 95%+ of what you'll find in this size and price range." Read more

"...After using it on a four day trip I think it's a well thought out and high quality product. It also fits under an airplane seat...." Read more

"...Love the design and very spacious main compartment. Well thought out features on this pack." Read more

"...The size of the bag is great. Love the colour. I just wish they used more secure seams along the zippers...." Read more

11 customers mention "Functionality"11 positive0 negative

Customers find the backpack functional and comfortable. They say it works well for daily use with great features.

"...Overall a really solid, nice looking, functional bag w some great features and better than 95%+ of what you'll find in this size and price range." Read more

"...Zippers are high quality and it functions very well." Read more

"Versatile piece of carry on. Worked very well on a recent trip to Italy." Read more

"Great short trip backpack that works like a briefcase, too" Read more

9 customers mention "Value for money"9 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the backpack's value for money. They say it's an excellent travel backpack that fits nicely under airline seats. While it may be pricey, they consider it worth it. Thule always produces superior products, and this bag is no different.

"...I got it on sale, so the value was rock solid." Read more

"...Thule always comes out with superior products, this bag is no different...." Read more

"...travel, carry on or personal bag on some airlines, this is an excellent choice...." Read more

"This is an excellent high end travel backpack. It fits nicely under airlines seats. Zippers are high quality and it functions very well." Read more

9 customers mention "Zipper quality"9 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the backpack's zippers. They find the zippers smooth and high-quality, with a top zippered pocket for small items like earbuds.

"...Really solid construction with awesome zippers and nice water resistant material. Things I like... - Really nice zippers -..." Read more

"...There is a top zippered pocket that holds your small items like earbuds, cables, etc...." Read more

"...The zippers and pulls are all quality. I found the outer shell fabric to be very water resistant and durable...." Read more

"This is an awesome pack. The zippers are very high quality and smooth. The material is very robust, shows character with use in a good way...." Read more

Big!
5 out of 5 stars
Big!
I tried a few bags, I think I may have liked a Patagonia a little better style wise, but this bag had the biggest dimensions; I use it for a carryon. I would probably rate it 4.5 stars for comfort. I wish it had a belt strap.I love that it had a hidden zipper for a tablet/laptop. A few scratched from stuffing it up in overhead department, but no rips.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on December 22, 2023
    Color: NutriaSize: 28LVerified Purchase
    I highly recommend this expandable (28-32L) TRAVEL backpack. Many companies make mediocre products to complement their better known merchandise. This is not one of them.

    The backpack is made of partially recycled material and has a canvas like water resistant exterior. The handles are well thought out and there is an elastic side bottle holder. The pack opens separately from a top zip or full clam-shell style and is lockable. It also has a handy waterproof compartment to hold a wet swimsuit, etc. The Aion contains two padded compartments to hold your tablet and a large laptop. There is a top zippered pocket that holds your small items like earbuds, cables, etc. The shoulder straps are comfortable and have an adjustable cross strap. The above pics show these features.

    After using it on a four day trip I think it's a well thought out and high quality product. It also fits under an airplane seat. Thule has made a great backpack. Who knew?
    Customer image
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    Great Travel Backpack (28L)

    Reviewed in the United States on December 22, 2023
    I highly recommend this expandable (28-32L) TRAVEL backpack. Many companies make mediocre products to complement their better known merchandise. This is not one of them.

    The backpack is made of partially recycled material and has a canvas like water resistant exterior. The handles are well thought out and there is an elastic side bottle holder. The pack opens separately from a top zip or full clam-shell style and is lockable. It also has a handy waterproof compartment to hold a wet swimsuit, etc. The Aion contains two padded compartments to hold your tablet and a large laptop. There is a top zippered pocket that holds your small items like earbuds, cables, etc. The shoulder straps are comfortable and have an adjustable cross strap. The above pics show these features.

    After using it on a four day trip I think it's a well thought out and high quality product. It also fits under an airplane seat. Thule has made a great backpack. Who knew?
    Images in this review
    Customer imageCustomer imageCustomer imageCustomer imageCustomer imageCustomer imageCustomer image
    35 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on September 12, 2024
    Color: BlackSize: 28LVerified Purchase
    This is a really nice looking backpack with some useful features and pretty comfortable to carry too.
    Really solid construction with awesome zippers and nice water resistant material.

    Things I like...
    - Really nice zippers
    - looks nice
    - expandable from 28L to 32L
    - few good little organization pockets in front
    - stash pocket in top back
    - nice interior setup that can be split or used as one large compartment
    - interior thin waterproof section to keep papers dry OR separate something wet or a few dirty clothes
    - comfortable side carry handle
    - fits 32oz Nalgene bottle
    - luggage pass through

    Changes I wish it had...
    - remove that front little handle, looks weird sticking out. Just make it a little incognito strap if you gotta put something there. And back top handle not comfortable to grab, make it a little more comfortable
    - wish front had a quick access zip pocket for little stuff
    - wish there was a better dedicated pocket on top to stash and protect sunglasses
    - the little zipper pulls on a couple zippers sort of stick out and wish they just laid against bag
    - maybe a couple more little zipper stash pockets inside would be good
    - wish bag was like 1-2" longer top to bottom (I'm 6' tall) so it would just fit more long ways vertical on back as opposed to sticking further out.

    Overall a really solid, nice looking, functional bag w some great features and better than 95%+ of what you'll find in this size and price range.
    10 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on January 9, 2025
    Color: NutriaSize: 28LVerified Purchase
    I did hours and hours of research before picking a bag, and I’m happy I went with this one. It is lightweight, but heavy duty. It is comfortable to wear and fits me well. I do have a longer torso at 6’3”, but it sits right where it needs to be. It is great for carrying onto an airplane, and can also expand to carry a lot more if you don’t have to worry about it fitting under an airplane seat. I’ve taken it on two trips so far and can hardly tell it’s ever even been used. I got it on sale, so the value was rock solid.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on February 3, 2024
    Color: BlackSize: 40LVerified Purchase
    I have a few semi high end travel backpacks, I'm a one bag traveler, if some place I can't go without carrying only a backpack, I just don't go. I also never check my bags, if I can't carry it on a plane, I don't use it. So a high quality and high capacity backpack is very important to me. I'm not a backpacker, I don't walk around anywhere with my backpack. The only place I will be carrying one is at the airport, so even though comfort is important, it's not on the top of my list. The Thule 40l feels comfortable enough. It doesn't come with a hip strap, but I never use one anyway. It has a very roomy main compartment, comes with compression straps, a builtin detachable wet bag, a small builtin mesh toiletry zip compartment, and a full length zip compartment for additional organization. The laptop compartment is also very large, even with a laptop and a tablet, it still has room for stuff. Since I travel light, I only carry a 12 inch laptop, so I will be using the laptop compartment for clothing in compression cubes or other stuff. The front organizational pocket is only 1/2 way deep of the bag, wish it was larger so I can fit a light jacket along with miscellaneous stuff. The hidden pocket at the back is great for passport, wallet and quick access to travel documents. There is one external water bottle pocket on the right side, has no strap, but feels snug enough. I wouldn't flip the bag over, the water bottle could fall out. I saw people complaining about the waxed canvas, saying it looks dirty and scratched upon arrival. My bag arrived clean as whistle, not a single scratch on it. I tried scratching it a few times with my finger nails to see if it would leave a mark, it didn't, so I'm not too worried about it looking ugly or "full of character" after a few uses. Not sure if the material is really water resistant, not going to test it, don't plan on walking in the rain or dunking it in a puddle. My trips are usually 2-3 weeks long, I travel to many parts of the world with backpacks ranging in sizes from 35l to 45l. This bag is 40l, should be big enough to carry 10 days of light clothes and toiletries. Men's clothing is bulkier and heavier than women's, my wife packs light too, she can literally fit 2-3 weeks of light clothes in this 40l backpack. No, we never go anywhere cold, hate the cold. :). The bag is made in Vietnam, a bit disappointing, was hoping it'd be made in a Western country. However, the construction seems solid and durable, only time will tell if it will hold up. At $200 price point, it's better made or equivalent to some of the more expensive backpacks on the market, and exceeds bags in its same class, Peak Design 45l or Osprey Porter for example, both of which I also own.

    If you are also a one bag traveler, get the 40l version. If you carry a backpack in addition to check luggage, this bag might be too big, get the 28l one.
    41 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 3, 2025
    Color: Dark SlateSize: 28LVerified Purchase
    Great space organization, lightweight, packs a ton and comfortable on the back. But the slate version gets dirty very easily.

Top reviews from other countries

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  • Angel
    5.0 out of 5 stars GREAT PRODUCT
    Reviewed in Canada on February 28, 2025
    Color: Dark SlateSize: 28LVerified Purchase
    Sturdy, and has lots of space / pockets!!!
  • Monica Galan
    5.0 out of 5 stars The Perfect Backpack – 5/5 Across the Board! 🎒🔥
    Reviewed in Canada on February 7, 2025
    Color: BlackSize: 40LVerified Purchase
    If you’re looking for a high-quality, durable, and well-designed backpack, the Thule Aion 40L is the one! From premium materials to thoughtful storage and comfort, this bag is worth every penny.

    🌟 Build & Durability – 5/5
    • Tough & water-resistant 🌧️ thanks to bluesign-approved recycled polyester and a waxed canvas finish.
    • Heavy-duty zippers and reinforced stitching ensure long-term durability.
    • Removable TPU rolltop bag keeps things organized and clean.

    📂 Storage & Organization – 5/5
    • 40L capacity is ideal for work, travel, and everyday carry. ✈️
    • 9 well-designed compartments make organization effortless.
    • Padded storage for a 16” laptop 💻 and a dedicated section for a tablet 📱.
    • Zippered top pocket for quick access to small essentials.

    🎒 Comfort & Wearability – 5/5
    • Ergonomic padded straps make carrying heavy loads easy.
    • Well-balanced weight distribution prevents strain.
    • Adjustable design ensures a perfect fit.

    💯 Overall Verdict – 5/5

    This backpack is PERFECTION. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or need a reliable work bag, the Thule Aion 40L delivers top-notch quality, storage, and comfort. Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
    Customer image
    Monica Galan
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    The Perfect Backpack – 5/5 Across the Board! 🎒🔥

    Reviewed in Canada on February 7, 2025
    If you’re looking for a high-quality, durable, and well-designed backpack, the Thule Aion 40L is the one! From premium materials to thoughtful storage and comfort, this bag is worth every penny.

    🌟 Build & Durability – 5/5
    • Tough & water-resistant 🌧️ thanks to bluesign-approved recycled polyester and a waxed canvas finish.
    • Heavy-duty zippers and reinforced stitching ensure long-term durability.
    • Removable TPU rolltop bag keeps things organized and clean.

    📂 Storage & Organization – 5/5
    • 40L capacity is ideal for work, travel, and everyday carry. ✈️
    • 9 well-designed compartments make organization effortless.
    • Padded storage for a 16” laptop 💻 and a dedicated section for a tablet 📱.
    • Zippered top pocket for quick access to small essentials.

    🎒 Comfort & Wearability – 5/5
    • Ergonomic padded straps make carrying heavy loads easy.
    • Well-balanced weight distribution prevents strain.
    • Adjustable design ensures a perfect fit.

    💯 Overall Verdict – 5/5

    This backpack is PERFECTION. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or need a reliable work bag, the Thule Aion 40L delivers top-notch quality, storage, and comfort. Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
    Images in this review
    Customer imageCustomer imageCustomer imageCustomer imageCustomer imageCustomer imageCustomer image
  • Cathy Wiener
    5.0 out of 5 stars Carry on
    Reviewed in Canada on December 13, 2024
    Color: Dark SlateSize: 40LVerified Purchase
    I used this bag for a carry on or as an over night bag. Love it. Great quality and holds lots of stuff. My husband and 2 friends also bought one.
  • ErCB
    5.0 out of 5 stars Gran calidad y espaciosa
    Reviewed in Mexico on December 5, 2024
    Color: NutriaSize: 40LVerified Purchase
    Había probado varias marcas que son para montañismo, y otras un poco más baratas que se abren de la misma manera y son para la cabina del avión
    Está Mochila sirvió para ambas cosas, para el avión estuvo perfecta para colocarla debajo del asiento, y me la llevé de trekking y resistió caídas, raspaduras, jaloneos y una llovizna
    Me encantan los compartimientos, gran estructura, muy comida para cargar objetos pesados, se siente resistente y sobrevivió a un viaje de escalda con uso rudo.
    Ha sido mi mochila favorita entre todas las que he probado de este tamaño
    Customer image
    ErCB
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    Gran calidad y espaciosa

    Reviewed in Mexico on December 5, 2024
    Había probado varias marcas que son para montañismo, y otras un poco más baratas que se abren de la misma manera y son para la cabina del avión
    Está Mochila sirvió para ambas cosas, para el avión estuvo perfecta para colocarla debajo del asiento, y me la llevé de trekking y resistió caídas, raspaduras, jaloneos y una llovizna
    Me encantan los compartimientos, gran estructura, muy comida para cargar objetos pesados, se siente resistente y sobrevivió a un viaje de escalda con uso rudo.
    Ha sido mi mochila favorita entre todas las que he probado de este tamaño
    Images in this review
    Customer image
  • alex17wiper
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great carry-on size backpack
    Reviewed in Canada on November 20, 2024
    Color: NutriaSize: 40LVerified Purchase
    Great backpack as you would expect from this company. A little pricey, but 100% worth it I would buy again.