Matador 30L vs Ulanzi 22L: Carry-On Backpack Size Comparison
By Red Dot Photo | Published: 2026-11-05
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Matador 30L Carry On Travel Pack and Ulanzi YY038 Urban Travel Backpack V2 22L on capacity, carry-on fit, and packing style to choose your one-bag travel pack.
Quick answer
Choose the Matador 30L Carry On Travel Pack if you need maximum carry-on capacity for one-bag trips and want dual-access packing; choose the Ulanzi YY038 Urban Travel Backpack V2 22L if you prefer a lighter, urban-focused pack for everyday carry and shorter travel.
Capacity and packing style: 30L vs 22L
The Matador 30L offers 8 liters more space than the Ulanzi 22L, which translates to room for several days of clothing, a laptop, and travel essentials in a single bag. The Ulanzi 22L suits minimalist packing or trips where you do laundry or carry less gear. Neither pack's exact dimensions or weight are supplied, so check the airline's carry-on limits and the product pages for precise measurements before you fly.
Carry-on fit and airline considerations
The Matador is described as sized for carry-on use with many major airlines, but that does not guarantee fit on every carrier. The Ulanzi 22L is smaller and more likely to pass strict personal-item or underseat rules, though its carry-on compatibility is not specified. If you frequently fly budget airlines with tight size limits, the 22L is the safer bet; for standard carry-on allowances, the 30L gives you more packing freedom.
Urban vs travel-focused design
The Ulanzi YY038 has clean urban styling that blends into city commutes and everyday carry, while the Matador is built for streamlined one-bag travel with dual-access architecture. The Matador's design may look more technical, whereas the Ulanzi prioritizes a sleek appearance. Consider where the pack will be used most: daily office commutes favor the Ulanzi's urban look, while multi-day travel favors the Matador's travel-specific features.
Trade-offs to weigh
- Capacity vs portability: The Matador 30L holds more for longer trips but is bulkier; the Ulanzi 22L is easier to carry daily but requires disciplined packing for travel. Match capacity to your longest typical trip without laundry.
- Airline compatibility: The Matador is sized for carry-on use with many major airlines, but always verify your specific airline's limits; the Ulanzi's smaller size reduces risk on strict carriers. Check your airline's carry-on dimensions before committing to the 30L.
- Style and versatility: The Ulanzi's urban styling works for office and city use; the Matador's travel-focused design is more purpose-built for one-bag travel. Choose the pack that fits most of your days, not just your next trip.
Product facts
- Matador 30L Carry On Travel Pack: 30L capacity with Dual Access Architecture. The larger capacity and dual-access design make it easier to pack and reach gear on multi-day trips.
Matador 30L Carry On Travel Pack - Ulanzi YY038 Urban Travel Backpack V2 22L: 22L capacity with clean urban styling. The smaller size and urban look suit everyday carry and minimalist travel without bulk.
Ulanzi YY038 Urban Travel Backpack V2 22L
Which pack fits you?
Best for
- One-bag travelers taking multi-day trips who need maximum carry-on capacity
- Travelers who want dual-access packing and a travel-specific design
Not for
- Minimalist packers or daily commuters who prefer a smaller, urban-looking bag
- Travelers on strict budget airlines with tight carry-on size limits
