Sherpani Soleil Anti-Theft [Review]

This Sherpani Soleil review was put together after 2 months of testing, and after extensive use, we can’t help but name it the most impressive small backpack of its size. At only 14-liters, it is the perfect compact backpack for daily carry of essentials. The convertible design allows you to choose between different looks; backpack, tote bag, and crossbody bag. But the real magic begins when you delve into its anti-theft features. Here is where the Soleil really shines as the perfect travel companion at busy airports and crowded sightseeing destination.

Let’s delve in!

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Great anti-theft features makes it the perfect travel daypack or airplane personal item

• Easy to convert to a tote bag or crossbody bag

• Protective padded laptop sleeve

• Lots of pockets to keep things organized

What we don’t like

• The bag tilts forward when worn as a backpack

• Poor water resistant protection because of gaps in top zipper (see photos below)

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 15” (H) x 11” (W) x 4.5” (D)

• Weight: 1 lb 10 oz

• Capacity: 14L

• Materials: Recycled Mélange, Ballistic Nylon

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Model Height 5’6” (167cm)

Convertible Design and Bag Fit

The small footprint of the Sherpani Soleil makes it an ideal personal item backpack for flights. With dimensions of 15” (H) x 11” (W) x 4.5” (D), it is small enough to fit underneath most airplane seats. Its compact size also makes it an ideal backpack for petite women or anyone who finds most backpacks too bulky. 

Sherpani Soleil convertible backpack - crossbody bag and tote bag mode

The Sherpani Soleil is a convertible backpack that can be worn in three ways; backpack, tote bag and crossbody bag. Switching between modes takes seconds thanks to the clips on the shoulder straps. Simply tuck the shoulder straps away into the back panel and you are ready to go! To switch to crossbody bag mode, Sherpani includes a single long shoulder strap that can be clipped to the top of the Soleil for an easy switch. 

As for backpack comfort, the shoulder straps on the Soleil are very comfortable. These shoulder straps are made with a dense foam that do a great job under weight. Unlike other thinner shoulder straps, you won’t have to worry about these cutting into your shoulders.

Shoulder straps on the Sherpani Soleil backpack

The area where the Soleil could improve is with its back panel. When worn as a backpack, the Soleil wants to tilt forward, creating an awkward angle on your back. This doesn’t make the backpack uncomfortable until the bag gets heavy, in which case you will have a pressure point on your lower back. Despite multiple adjustments of shoulder strap length, we could not get the Soleil to not tilt forward when worn as a backpack.

Construction & Water Resistance

The Sherpani Soleil is a well-made pack that feels as good as it looks. In addition to its ballistic nylon exterior, Sherpani also adorns the bag with vegan leather trim for an upscale look. The zippers are also as smooth as butter and have never snagged during use.

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Gaps in top zipper

Our main concern is the overall water-resistance of the Sherpani Soleil. Although it is made with water-resistant fabric, the design of the top zipper undermines any meaningful protection. Two noticeable gaps on either side of the zipper allow rain to easily penetrate the main compartment during a storm. Unfortunately, if you are looking for a waterproof backpack, you might want to explore other options.

Pockets and Compartments

Sherpani offers an impressive array of pockets on the Soleil AT, and the great organization is one of our favorite design elements about this bag.

On the outside of the bag, you have two side pockets for water bottles or an umbrella. These side pockets are large enough to accommodate larger 32oz and 40oz water bottles, although they are a tight fit and dig into the main compartment. We found ourselves sticking to slimmer 20oz and 24oz bottles for easier access.

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Exterior pockets

Three front pockets give you easy access to smaller items. However, one small gripe is that these pockets all share space with each other, meaning that if the top and bottom zipper pockets are full, the middle slip pocket becomes unusable. This is just something to keep in mind.

On the inside of the main compartment, there are even more pockets for organization. Here you will find an organization panel for small items like pens, keys, and a phone. Sherpani even adds an additional slip pocket for a water bottle or umbrella inside the main compartment as a bonus.

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Interior organizer pockets and side water bottle pocket

The other side of the main compartment is where you’ll find the 15-inch laptop sleeve. Honestly, Sherpani has done a great job here. This sleeve is generously padded with great protection all around. We were glad to see that Sherpani took the time to design a protective laptop sleeve!

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Internal 15-inch laptop sleeve

Overall, these pockets offer a good mix of usefull pockets for both everyday carry and travel. As you’ll see later in this review, the ability to lock the zippers and compartments make them great safe spots for items like passports and wallets while still having easy access.

What Fits Inside the Sherpani Soleil?

The inside of the main compartment is filled with lots of pockets for everything from a laptop to sunglasses. Although 13-liters is a great size for daily essentials, we found was that once these inside pockets were packed it didn’t leave much open packing space for other items. Below are some examples of what we were able to pack inside.

Travel PackING

• iPad (inside laptop sleeve)

• Tech Pouch 

• Baseball Cap

• 24oz Water Bottle

• Compressible Travel Jacket

School or Work Packing

• Folder

• Large 3-Subject Notebook

• Composition Notebook

• 1-inch Binder

• Laptop (inside laptop sleeve)

From our testing, it’s easy to see that the Sherpani Soleil is great for essentials only! Think of just a few notebooks and folders for work or school or in-flight travel must-haves like a tablet and compressible jacket. Larger items such as a lunch box or fleece jackets took up almost all of the inside space, leaving little room for much else. If you need more space than we definitely recommend looking at Sherpani’s other larger backpack options.

Anti-Theft Features Explained

If you haven’t already noticed, the “AT” in Sherpani Soleil AT stands for anti-theft. And wow, is this backpack packed with some great safety features!

The most notable are the lockable zippers. There is a small red clip next to the main compartment zipper that allows you to lock the zipper shut to prevent theft. The front zippered pockets are also lockable; you can secure the zipper pull by passing it through a small loop, offering a simple way to outsmart pickpockets.

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - main compartment zipper locking clip

Other great features include RFID-block fabric on the front panel of the bag to prevent digital identity theft, slash-proof fabric on the bottom of the bag and a stainless steel wire and loop that allows you to lock the bag to a table or chair leg in public spaces. Talk about innovative!

Sherpani Soleil Backpack - Included ReturnMe lost and found tag

Our favorite anti-theft feature has to be the ReturnMe lost and found tag. This little tag has information on it to allow a good samaritan to report a found bag from anywhere in the world, and ReturnMe will then contact you for a safe return. This ReturnMe service is free and comes with every Sherpani Soleil purchase.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we are very impressed by what the Sherpani Soleil has to offer. This is easily one of the most feature-packed bags we have ever reviewed. Not only is it convertible, but the anti-theft features alone are enough to make it one of our favorite small backpacks for travel. 

The biggest con is the lack of reliable water resistance. Unfortunately, the gaps in the main compartment zipper leaves the inside of the bag vulnerable to moisture if you were ever to be caught out in the rain. Aside from this design quirk, we found the overall quality of the bag to be excellent and do recommend the Soleil to anyone who wants a stylish yet practical bag that feels as good as it looks. 

If you are still searching for a small backpack with good water resistance, we recommend checking out our reviews for the Patagonia Atom Tote or the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag. Other great hybrid tote bag/backpack options can be found in our backpacks like Fjallraven buying guide.

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Nomatic Backpack [Review]

The Nomatic Backpack is easily one of our favorite backpacks for work and daily laptop carry, thanks to its incredible organization. It manages to pack pockets into just about every square inch of its interior compartments, giving you maximum organization for your daily essentials while maintaining a sleek, professional exterior.

In this Nomatic Backpack review, we explore what makes this backpack stand out from its competition so you can decide if it is the ultra-sleek, water-resistant, more-pockets-than-you'll-know-what-to-do-with backpack that you've been looking for.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Insane amount of pockets. Some of the best organization we have seen yet.

• Expanding main compartment when you need more room (20-24L)

• Protective laptop and tablet sleeves thanks to generous false bottom

• Great water resistant protection thanks to tarpaulin material and water resistant YKK zippers.

What we don’t like

• Because of the pockets, the main compartment doesn’t leave a lot of wide open space for packing bulkier items. Will have to expand backpack to pack something like a lunch or a change of clothes.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” x 13” x 5.75” inches

• Capacity: 20L (24L expanded)

• Weight: 4 lbs

• Materials: Tarpaulin, YKK zippers

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 13”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

Materials and Construction

The Nomatic Backpack really shines with its choice of construction materials. The exterior is made with highly water-resistant tarpaulin, and the exterior compartments are equipped with water-resistant YKK zippers for peace of mind during rainy-day commutes. Inside you are met with a robust liner fabric and quality mesh for the pockets. Everything about this backpack just feels like great quality.

The back panel and shoulder straps are also thoughtfully constructed and Nomatic seems to have done everything right in terms of comfort. The back panel consists of two separate foam panels with a generous air channel in between for ventilation. The shoulder straps are padded, but not too thick and bulky, giving you a sleeker appearance when worn.

Pockets and Compartments

The Nomatic Backpack can be divided into two major compartments: the front organizer compartment and the main compartment. The front organizer compartment is home to a bunch of smaller mesh pockets, pockets for pens, and a variety of zippered pockets, including a fairly large RFID-blocking pocket with a lockable zipper.

The main compartment is where the bulk of your storage will live, and it is home to what we call a “tech station” that includes a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a separate tablet sleeve, and slip pockets designed specifically for a keyboard, mouse, and other tech accessories. We found that the tablet sleeve can fit any device up to 13 inches, allowing you to use the Nomatic as a two-laptop backpack if needed.

Another great feature is that the laptop and tablet sleeves ‘float’ on the inside of the main compartment, giving you a generous false bottom to protect your devices from bumps and drops. The main compartment also has some cool features, such as a hardcase pocket for your sunglasses and a pocket that hides away a retractable leash for your keys.

On the exterior of the Nomatic Backpack, you’ll find two magnetic water bottle pockets that collapse against the bag for a cleaner look when not in use. These water bottle pockets are nice and stretchy and can accommodate wider 32 oz bottles just fine.

Nomatic also manages to include a secret compartment behind the back panel in the rear of the backpack. This pocket is just large enough to fit a passport and stays completely hidden when the bag is worn.

Expandable and Convertible

The Nomatic Backpack is both expandable and convertible. The shoulder straps can be tucked into the back panel, allowing you to carry the Nomatic Backpack like a briefcase when needed and a the expandable main compartment goes from 20 liters to 24 liters in seconds thanks to a wrap-around zipper.

We found that when compressed, the amount of wide-open packing space is limited, especially when the internal pockets are packed. We could fit 3-4 notebooks, binders, and books before running out of packing room. When expanded to 24 liters, we could fit an additional jacket inside.

It's safe to say that the Nomatic Backpack prioritizes organization of items over wide-open packing space. So, if you need to carry lots of bulky gear like camera equipment, shoes, or a lunchbox, then you may find the Nomatic a bit limiting, especially when compared to other expanding backpacks that expand north of 10 liters of packing room compared to the Nomatic's 4 liters. Although we wouldn't choose the Nomatic Backpack specifically for its expandability, it is a nice feature to have.

Final Thoughts

The Nomatic Backpack is best suited for professionals looking for a sleek backpack for work that can function as a 'mobile office' on work trips. In addition to being a great travel sidekick on flights, it really thrives as a daily driver where organization is key.

Overall, there's not much we don't like about this backpack. The pockets are plenty, the style is sleek, and the water-resistant materials are solid. However, there may not be much leftover space inside the bag once you fill up all the pockets. With that said, if you tend to carry bulkier items like shoes, a lunch box, and books and notebooks, you may find the the Nomatic to be lacking in open packing room. But if you're looking for a sleek way to keep yourself organized during the workweek, the Nomatic Backpack is the perfect choice. It shines as a backpack for professionals who need a reliable work bag for their essentials.

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Troubadour Pioneer [Review]

Designed to be both a daily work backpack and a gym/travel bag - the Troubadour Pioneer offers a handsome option for those looking for a versatile backpack that can do it all.

Its design is pretty straightforward with a sleek polished exterior that won’t look out of place in office settings where looking your best matters. The outer pockets are discreet with two water bottle pockets that snap back into place when not in use to provide a cleaner look and multiple quick-access pockets for daily essentials such as a phone and sunglasses.

On the inside you’ll find an impressive variety of pockets for your work items plus a generous 17-inch laptop sleeve that’s soft-lined to protect your tech from scratches. This laptop compartment can also be accessed from an outside side zipper for fast entry without having to open up the main compartment.

The Pioneer’s secret sauce however is its sneaky bottom compartment made with an anti-microbial lining for storing shoes and clothing. This is a large compartment that can fit a men’s size 12 in running shoes with room to spare for a sweatshirt or shorts. You can also use this bottom compartment for stashing a change of clothing for overnight stays. The highlight of this compartment is the ability to keep your gym/travel items separate from your work items.

At 23.5 liters the Troubadour Pioneer is the perfect laptop daypack for professionals who need a reliable backpack for work without the unsightly profile of larger backpacks. But unfortunately this compact size does cut into the bag’s usable packing room. The shoe compartment uses up a lot of space inside the main compartment and you may find yourself limited in how much you can carry. But for those tired of large bulky backpacks and awkward silhouettes, the Troubadour Pioneer might offer a good compromise between size and functionality.

Troubadour’s secret weapon has always been their highly water resistant designs and the Pioneer is no exception. The exterior is constructed with a waterproof fabric and water resistant zippers which offers peace of mind to city commuters on rainy days.

Speaking of construction, the shoulder straps are plush and made with a high-density foam that feels great under load and its padded back panel offers great breathability thanks to its generous airflow channels. When it comes to quality construction Troubadour doesn’t miss and it’s safe to say that the Pioneer is one backpack that feels as great as it looks.

What we like

• Sleek sophisticated design and a high quality water resistant construction

• Large bottom compartment for shoes and clothing

• Amazing organization - great variety of internal and external pockets

• Highly water resistant construction for peace of mind on rainy days

What we don’t like

• The bottom shoe compartment takes up room inside the main compartment. At 23.5L this means packing a change of clothes or shoes won’t leave much room for bulkier items inside the main compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.3” (H) x 11.8” (W) x 6.3” (D)

• Capacity: 23.5L

• Materials: Water resistant recycled polyester fabric, vegan leather

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 17”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Targus Work+ Expandable Daypack 32L

The Targus Work+ Expandable Daypack offers a one-bag solution for work, school, gym and travel thanks to a creative design made to adapt to different situations.

The main compartment opens wide with a near-clamshell zipper design that gives you access to multiple pockets for daily organization. In the rear you’ll find a separate padded laptop compartment for devices up to 16-inches while a large bottom compartment for shoes or laundry allows you to separate the yucky from your daily carry.

Targus also adds some clever travel features into the Work+ design such as lockable zippers in the main and laptop compartments and side and front handles for easy grabbing when using overhead compartments on planes and trains. Another great travel feature is the trolley sleeve in the back panel so that you can attach the Work+ to your rolling luggage.

As for gripes, there is no secondary padded sleeve for a tablet. Also, your main organizer pockets for pens and smaller items is located in the back of the main compartment which makes these items a little cumbersome to reach when the main compartment is packed full. We would have liked to have seen a separate compartment altogether for these organizer pockets. But these are just minor complaints amongst an overwhelmingly positive impression of such a thoughtfully designed and versatile backpack.

Truth be told there are a lot of features on the Targus Work+ Expandable Daypack that just work. Targus includes a good variety of pockets throughout the backpack both internally and externally. Our favorite is the sneaky front panel pocket that stays relatively hidden. 

The side water bottle pockets are also a slam dunk since they are made of incredibly stretchy material and can fit larger bottles. We were able to fit in a 32L Nalgene bottle and a Blender Bottle with and they stayed nice and snug inside the pockets.

What we like

• Awesome expandable design that gives you a roomy bag when you need it and a slimmer bag on light days.

• Great travel features that makes life easy on trips (luggage sleeve, handles, lockable zippers)

• Stretchy water bottle pockets can fit larger bottles (like a 32oz Nalgene)

• Sleek design that would look great at as a daily work backpack

What we don’t like

• No secondary padded sleeve for tablet

• Organizer pockets are in the back of the main compartment making them a little cumbersome to access when the bag is fully packed. We wish there was a separate organizer/admin compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20.46” (H) x 12.9” (W) x 7.67” (D)

• Capacity: 32L (when expanded)

• Weight: 2.64lbs

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Public Rec Pro Pack Plus

Public Rec scores a home run with their versatile Pro Pack Plus. This backpack features a roomy main packing compartment that can be used for multi-day travel plus a discrete bottom compartment for shoes or laundry to keep your dirty items separate. When paired its handsome minimalist design, it’s no wonder why the Pro Pack Plus is a favorite backpack with shoe compartment.

The rear laptop compartment is filled with pockets for organization and includes a 15” laptop sleeve with an additional sleeve for a tablet or documents. You’ll have also enough room in this compartment to store a couple of notebooks or binders when needed.

Along with being a solid daily laptop backpack, the 26.5L of capacity in the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus gives you the room to pack for impromptu weekend getaways or business trips. The sleek minimalist design also gives you the ability to hit up the gym before or after work while still looking professional at the office. 

The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus is constructed of water resistant poly-twill and has a semi-rigid construction. This means that the backpack does a great job at keeping its shape even when empty to prevent an unsightly floppy and sloppy appearance. Details like these is what makes the Pro Pack Plus such a great backpack for professional environments where looking your best matters.

The back panel and shoulder straps are generously padded for comfort and we have come to appreciate the cushy mesh and airflow channels on warmer days. Overall, the look and quality of the Pro Pack Plus leaves little to be desired for the working professional who expects more from their carry.

What we like

• Attractive minimalist design

• Very roomy packing compartment that’s perfect for weekend travel or after-work gym sessions.

• Great organization of daily work items

• Hidden pockets in the back for extra security

What we don’t like

• No stretch in the water bottle pockets limits your carry to slim bottles

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” (H) x 12” (W) x 7.5” (D)

• Capacity: 26.5L

• Weight: 2.7lbs

• Materials: Water resistant poly-twill fabric

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet/Document Sleeve: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter

It’s a backpack, messanger bag, sling crossbody bag, briefcase and a clutch.

It’s a daily laptop backpack, weekend travel pack and a work to gym backpack.

The Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter Pack lets you decide what you want to carry and how you want to carry it.

The versatile packing compartment includes velcro-backed packing cubes that can be used for both travel and organizing daily carry. This compartment also includes compression straps for easy packing of bulky clothing and gear. Remove the packing cubes and compression straps altogether and you have an open main compartment that you can use just like a regular top loading backpack.

A second laptop compartment operates as your mobile office. Felted wool laptop and tablet sleeves keep your tech safe from scratches while additional pockets can accommodate a pen, chargers and flat documents.

The Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter Pack is one of the most versatile backpacks we have come across to date. We appreciate its slim and minimalist footprint that minimizes unsightly bulk when worn and keeps you looking your best. The rugged ballistic nylon exterior and water resistant zippers gives Hideout Commuter an attractive black-on-black colorway that makes the bag look as good as it functions.

What we like

• Handsome minimalist design that would look great at both the office and at the airport.

• Super fast and easy to switch between modes of carry

• Includes packing cubes

• Removable packing cubes and compression straps allows for versatile use of the packing compartment

What we don’t like

• Slim 18L packing compartment limits what you can pack to 1 or 2 nights of travel.

• No water bottle pockets

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” (H) x 12” (W) x 6” (D)

• Capacity: 18L

• Materials: 1680 PU lined Ballistic Nylon, water resistant zippers, felted wool

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 12.9”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Harber London Commuter

The Harber London Commuter Backpack is definitely one of those backpacks that will turn some heads. Each bag is handmade in Spain and offers that special attention to detail that you just don’t get from mass produced bags. The full grain leather throughout also gives the Commuter Backpack a sophisticated touch that’s only rivaled by much more expensive luxury bags.

To get inside the main compartment you can engage the leather flip top that’s held together by a magnetic clasp to access the main compartment zipper. Inside you’ll find a 16” padded laptop sleeve, 13” padded tablet sleeve and a key leash with a metal clasp. Simple is as simple does.

The 17-liter capacity is roomy enough to use as a reliable daypack for work or as a personal item backpack on flights where compact bags are a must. But the lack of pockets for organization may leave something to be desired. Stuff like water bottles, pens and tech chargers don’t have dedicated storage pockets so you might have to get creative with organizer cases (Harber London offers a ton of great options if you want to go this route.).

For those looking for a simple do-it-all daypack, the Harber London Commuter does hit that sweet spot between a luxury bag and a practical laptop backpack that you can take just about anywhere.

What we like

• Handmade quality with exceptional attention to detail

• Handsome leather lid and accents gives the Commuter a luxurious look

• Leather shoulder straps are padded for comfort without adding bulk

What we don’t like

• No smaller pockets for organization. Very bare bones with just a laptop and tablet sleeve.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 16.92” (H) x 11.02” (W) x 5.51” (D)

• Capacity: 17L

• Materials: Full grain leather, hard-wearing fabric made from recycled bottles

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 13”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Db The Ramverk

At a 21 liter capacity, The Ramverk by Db is a slim and lightweight option that packs a big punch. This versatile bag can be used for everything from work and school to the gym and travel thanks to its open flat main compartment, nifty organization pockets and 15” laptop compartment. The front straps can even hold bulkier items like a skateboard, blanket, towel or yoga mat.

When it comes to quality, the Ramverk doesn’t disappoint. The zippers are silky smooth and the PU leather exterior gives the Ramverk an upscale feel that you only usually find in much more expensive bags.

What we like

• Roomy clamshell main compartment allows for easy packing and unpacking. Perfect for travel.

• Excellent quality. This backpack feels as good as it look.

• Incredibly lightweight and slim.

• Comes in a ton of awesome colors

What we DON’T like

• Unfortunately, The Ramverk 21L is missing a water bottle pocket. If this is a must-have feature then you’ll have to upgrade to the larger Db Ramverk 26L.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.5"H x 11.4"W x 5.9"D

• Capacity: 21L

• Material: PU Leather, 200D Polyester lining

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15” Macbook Pro

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Knack Pack Series 2

The Knack Series 2 expandable backpack is the newest update to the best selling Knack Pack - a daily backpack that expands into an ultra-functional travel pack.

With the Series 2, Knack has managed to keep the best parts of the original Knack Pack and add killer features such as more internal organization, improved security and a brand new streamlined look.

What sets the Knack Pack Series 2 apart from other hybrid bags is that it doesn’t compromise on daily carry features. Inside you’ll find a generous main compartment that is separate from the travel compartment, a new front internal organizer compartment and separate laptop compartment. We love how the expandable travel compartment is out of the way until you need it.

What we like

• Top-notch materials like the full grain napa leather give this backpack a premium, and dare we say luxurious, feel.

• For an expandable backpack the Knack Series 2 is surprisingly lightweight. When compressed, it’s about the size of a regular 24L daily backpack with little extra bulk.

• Amazing pocket variety for both everyday and travel items. The daily main compartment is separate from the expandable travel compartment for a true convertible backpack experience.

What we DON’T like

• We love the hidden side water pocket but unfortunately you will be limited to only storing slimmer bottles. Wider bottles, like a 32oz Nalgene bottle or larger Yeti tumbler, will not fit.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19"H x 12"W x 4.5"D (unexpanded)

• Capacity: 24L-35L

• Material: Water resistant 420D Nylon or Polyester Ottoman Fabric. Full grain Napa leather touch points.

• Weight: 3lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

When it comes to organization, very few work backpacks come as close to the thoughtful design of the eBags Professional Slim. The bag does two things very well; organizing your stuff and keeping a slim and professional look that won’t look out of place in a corporate setting.

The backpack can be divided into 3 sections; the front organizer zip pocket and “garage” pocket on the bottom, the main compartment with L-shape zip access, and finally the padded laptop compartment.

eBags offers this bag in two sizes - the eBags Professional Slim (21.6 liters) and the smaller eBags Professional Slim Junior (16.7 liters). The specs on this page are for the regular 21.6 liter version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for daily work commuting or business trips.

• Water bottle pocket can be tucked away when not in use.

• Great for those with large laptops (fits up to 17-inches)

What we don’t like

• At almost 4 pounds, the backpack is a bit on the heavy side considering its size.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12.75” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 21.6L

• Weight: 3lbs 13oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Dobby Fabric

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Samsonite Kombi Large Backpack

The Samsonite Kombi is a large laptop backpack that is perfect for anyone who needs a professional looking bag for work or travel. The main compartment is large enough for books, binders or even extra clothes. There are also tons of compartments, organizers and pockets throughout the bag for all of your tech, personal and business gear.

Samsonite offers the Kombi in two sizes; the large version featured here and the more compact Kombi Small backpack.

What we like

• Contrasting orange interior lining makes finding your items easy. This is especially helpful with small items that tend to get lost at the bottom of the bag.

• Backpack bottom is flat enough to allow the backpack to sit up when placed on the floor. A small detail, but one worth noting.

• Includes trolley sleeve and can be carried on luggage handles while traveling.

What we don’t like

• Structured design makes the backpack look large and bulky even when not full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” W x 7” D

• Weight: 2.5lbs

• Material: Ballistic Nylon with leather details

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Briggs & Riley Large Cargo Backpack

As one of the brand’s largest work backpacks, the Briggs & Riley Large Cargo Backpack is made for busy work commuters and business travelers who need to carry their business essentials while still looking clean and professional. The Large Cargo backpack functions as a portable office thanks to its dedicated file sleeves, laptop compartment and smart organizers for smaller items.

The Briggs & Riley @work Cargo backpacks come in two sizes, the 33 liter Large Cargo backpack and the smaller 27.3 liter Medium Cargo backpack.

What we like

• Backpack has enough room to pack for an overnight stay plus business essentials.

• Exceptional materials and construction. Looks and feels high quality.

What we don’t like

• No key lanyard to attach keys. Small complaint but worth noting.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 15” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 33L

• Weight: 3.2 lbs

• Material: 1600D Ballistic Nylon with leather accents

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Tumi Sheppard Deluxe Brief Pack

The Tumi Sheppard Deluxe Brief Pack is a backpack made with business travelrs and commuters in mind. The bag has enough room to comfortably carry business files and binders with special compartments for a laptop, tablet and other tech. The roomy main compartment and pockets are great for daily essentials.

What we like the most about the Tumi Sheppard is that it looks and feels like a premium business bag that can rival most briefcases. It won’t look out of place at the office and you are sure to turn some heads at the airport.

What we like

• Great size for lugging around multiple devices (laptops, tablets) and business files.

• Plenty of useful pockets and compartments in the side, front and inside the main compartment.

• Exceptional materials and construction. Looks and feels high quality.

What we don’t like

• It’s expensive! If you don’t love it, it can be hard justifying the price tag.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17” H x 14” W x 8” D

• Material: Ballistic Nylon

• Weight: 3.48lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Briggs & Riley Medium Cargo Backpack

Made for busy professionals, the Briggs & Riley Medium Cargo Backpack checks all the boxes as one of the best men’s work backpacks thanks to its stylish design and smart features. As part of Briggs & Riley @work collection, the Medium Cargo backpack functions as a portable office thanks to its dedicated file sleeves, laptop compartment and smart organizers for smaller items.

The Briggs & Riley @work Cargo backpacks come in two sizes, the 27.3 liter Medium Cargo backpack and the larger 33 liter Briggs & Riley Large Cargo Backpack.

What we like

• Great business carry options; compartments for laptop and tablet, pockets for files and organizers for smaller items like business cards and pens.

• Exceptional materials and construction. Looks and feels high quality.

• Roomy main compartment for personal extras like a change of shoes or light jacket.

What we don’t like

• Side pockets are too small for larger water bottles.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 13.5” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 27.3L

• Weight: 2.6 lbs

• Material: 1600D Ballistic Nylon with leather accents

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Briggs & Riley Leather Medium Backpack

The Briggs & Riley Medium backpack in leather is a premium business and travel backpack for those who want something stylish yet understated. At 20.5 liter capacity, the backpack is just the right size for daily commuter carry or as a personal item on most airlines. The leather and YKK zippers add sophistication to an already sleek design.

The Briggs & Riley Medium backpack is also available in non-leather versions made of ballistic nylon.

What we like

• Great business carry options; compartments for laptop and tablet, pockets for files and organizers for smaller items like business cards and pens.

• High quality leather makes the bag look and feel like a high end backpack.

• Small enough to be used as a carry-on or airline personal item. Fits underneath airplane seats.

What we don’t like

• 20.5 liter capacity limits what you can hold in the main compartment. Can be tough fitting things like a light jacket or large water bottle when the pockets inside the main compartment are being used.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” W x 7” D

• Capacity: 20.5L

• Weight: 2.9 lbs

• Material: Leather

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Tumi T-Pass Business Class Brief Pack

Tumi offers a true business travel backpack with their Tumi T-Pass Business Class Brief Pack. This backpack is perfect for frequent travelers looking for a backpack companion that can hold anything from important business files to a couple of days worth of clothing.

The “T-Pass” function of this backpack allows your laptop to be stored in a separate compartment that lies flat for an easier time at airport security checkpoints. The bag itself is professional and sleek allowing it to be carried to the office or to important business meetings without feeling out of place.

What we like

• Large cavernous main compartment can hold anything from business files and binders to clothing and shoes.

• TSA checkpoint friendly T-Pass laptop compartment that lays flat.

• Exceptional materials and construction. Looks and feels high quality.

What we don’t like

• It’s expensive! Can be hard justifying the price tag.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 16.5” H x 12” W x 8” D

• Material: Nylon with leather accents

• Weight: 3.95lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Everki Atlas Backpack

The Everki Atlas was made for professionals who need a daily commuter bag or a reliable backpack for travel. At 32 liters, the Atlas is large enough to carry extra clothes, books, files and more in its generous main compartment. Travelers will enjoy the TSA-friendly laptop compartment that opens flat and allow for storage of multiple laptop or tablet devices.

What we like

• Organization galore! The Atlas is jammed packed with compartments, pockets, and organizers.

• TSA checkpoint friendly laptop compartment that lays flat.

• Large laptop compartment - Most backpacks can only fit laptops up to 15-inches while the Everki Atlas has room for laptops up to 17.3 inches.

What we don’t like

• It’s a heavy backpack. The bag already weighs 4 lbs when empty and becomes a monster when full.

• Stitching and seams aren’t the best. At the $100+ price point we expect better.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.9” H x 9” W x 13.38” D

• Capacity: 32L

• Weight: 4 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17.3”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Tumi London Roll Top Backpack

Tumi offers a rugged roll-top bag for work or play with their Alpha Bravo London backpack. What makes the London different from other roll-top backpacks is that it’s playfully designed yet sophisticated enough to wear to work or on business trips. One of our favorite features of this backpack is that the laptop compartment can be accessed separately from the main compartment. It’s a small design feature but the convenience it provides is excellent.

What we like

• Laptop compartment is separate from the main compartment for easy tech access.

• Large main compartment is great for busy commuters or travelers.

• Exceptional materials and construction. Looks and feels high quality.

What we don’t like

• It’s expensive! If you don’t love it, it can be hard justifying the price tag.

• Large main compartment but lack of smaller organizer pockets for smaller items.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 14” W x 6” D

• Material: Ballistic Nylon with leather accents

• Weight: 3.47lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Samsonite Xenon 3.0 Slim Backpack

The Samsonite Xenon 3.0 Slim is a rugged business backpack that covers all of the basics while still being stylish and sophisticated enough to wear to the office. The Xenon 3.0 Slim can be split up into 3 main sections; the padded laptop compartment, a main compartment with mesh pockets for accessories and a full panel organizer on the front.

Samsonite offers the Xenon is a variety of sizes; the Xenon Slim as seen here, the larger Samsonite Xenon 3.0 Large and the more petite Samsonite Xenon 3.0 Small.

What we like

• Stylish and slim profile is sophisticated enough to wear to the office or on business trips.

• Front organizers and pockets inside main compartment are great for storing tech accessories such as cables and chargers.

• Great carry-on or airline personal item backpack. Small enough to fit underneath most airline seats.

What we don’t like

• Little padding on the bottom of the backpack to protect laptop from falls and bumps.

• Thicker 15-inch laptops (such as gaming laptops or older models) may have issues fitting in the laptop compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 16.5” H x 12” W x 6” D

• Weight: 2.1lbs

• Material: 1680D Ballistic Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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