Able Carry Thirteen Daybag [Review]

Let's start by saying that we had the privilege of testing the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag for almost four years before writing this review. After only a few weeks of use, the Thirteen Daybag quickly became our go-to small backpack for everyday carry and occasional travel. What stood out the most was its great quality - after all these years, the only wear we could find was some slight fraying on the back panel's stitching from rubbing. This wear was so minor that we questioned even mentioning it.

Just in time for 2024, Able Carry released updated versions of the Thirteen Daybag that add about 0.5 liters of packing space, along with some very minor changes. Think of this update more as the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag "version 1.5" rather than "version 2.0". A couple of extra pockets, a removable key leash, and upgrades to the internal lining material - but it looks and feels like the same bag. In this Thirteen Daybag review, we take a look at the updated version but with the advantage of a few years of use to really dive into the pros and cons.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Amazing quality: water-resistant X-Pac exterior, tough ripstop nylon lining and some of the most comfortable padded shoulder straps we have tested in a bag this small

• Light colored ripstop lining makes it easy to quickly find items inside the bag

• Protective "floating" laptop sleeve

• Lots of pockets to keep things organized

What we don’t like

• No trolley sleeve to attach the bag to rolling luggage while traveling

• Laptop sleeve can be a little difficult to access

• X-Pac is noisy - we wouldn't want to open this backpack inside a library

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.7” (H) x 10.6” (W) x 6.7” (D)

• Weight: 2.2lb

• Capacity: 13L

• Materials: X-Pac with DWR water-resistant coating, ripstop nylon lining

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 14”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 11"

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Model Height 5’6” (167cm)

Who is this backpack for?

For Daily Carry: Laptop, chargers, water bottle, keys, and wallet — if these are the essentials you never leave home without then the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag may be the backpack for you. The water resistant and tough-as-nails construction makes this backpack easy to recommend to work commuters and urban explorers alike.

For Travelers: The compact size of the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag makes it an ideal personal item backpack for flights. It's small enough to fit underneath the airplane seat of just about any airline, plus its pockets makes it easy to organize in-flight essentials. The Thirteen Daybag also makes a great travel daybag thanks to it's water-resistant construction and hidden pockets.

It might not be suitable for Students: With only 13-liters of packing space, the most we could fit inside the main compartment was a single 1-inch binder and a large notebook. Students looking for a roomy backpack for school might not have enough room for essentials like multiple folders, books and pencil cases. However, the limited capacity might work for students who only need to carry a laptop and a few other items. If you need more room but want a similar style, we recommend upgrading to the Able Carry Daily Plus.

Size and Fit

The Thirteen Daybag is the smallest offering in the Able Carry lineup of backpacks. Although it is a unisex backpack that can be worn by anyone, those with a shorter torso can really take advantage of its compact size.

• Exterior Dimensions: 17.7” (H) x 10.6” (W) x 6.7” (D)

To really drive the point home of how small it is, check out the 13L Thirteen Daybag next to the 21L Daily Plus for a size comparison. As you can see it's quit the jump up in size!

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag vs Daily Plus size differences

The shoulder straps are some of the most comfortable we have seen in a backpack this small. Usually, small backpacks love to skimp on shoulder strap padding but the Able Carry equips the Thirteen Daybag with plush close-cell foam padding and an ergonomic s-curve shape for max comfort.

The back panel is less impressive - it uses a the same close-cell foam padding as the shoulder straps but is just a flat piece of foam with small stitching channels for airflow. Overall, it's a very comfortable backpack and given its small size, we never felt that the back panel needed any additional padding.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - S-curve shoulder straps and magnetic chest strap

A new addition is the magnetic chest strap that is not only height-adjustable but removable all together. In our honest opinion, the Thirteen Daybag is so compact that a chest strap is rarely needed, but it was great for Able Carry to the add the option for extra support.

Construction & Quality

If we are being honest, the construction quality Thirteen Daybag is probably the best part about this backpack. The exterior is made with durable X-Pac material with a DWR water-resistant finish. X-Pac is not only lightweight but very high-strength and we have never had any punctures or tears in our years of using the old Thirteen Daybag.

Quality check: Our 4-year old Thirteen Daybag vs our new 1-month old Thirteen Daybag

The inside of the backpack is lined with ripstop nylon lining, another high-strength fabric that is known for its tear-resistance. Every pocket and compartment on the Thirteen Daybag is lined with light-colored ripstop for quick spotting of small items.

The external zippers on the Thirteen are YKK zippers with a DWR coating for water-resistant. At first we were disappointed that Able Carry switched from the old coated zipper style to fabric zippers, but after testing the new zippers, we found that the fabric zippers do hold up well to moisture thanks to the DWR coating.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - X-Pac fabric does a great job at repelling water

Is the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag waterproof? No, it's not waterproof but it is very water-resistant.

In our testing, we really had to really drench the backpack to start seeing moisture seeping in through the seams. The verdict is that you should be fine with the Thirteen Daybag on a commute home on a rainy day, in fact we never had a problem wearing this backpack in light rain. The X-Pac fabric really has given us peace of mind with outdoor wear, especially when carrying expensive tech.

Outside Pockets and Compartments

What makes Able Carry special is their creative approach to pockets and compartments. The exterior pockets on the Thirteen Daybag are a prime example of what the brand has to offer.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Front pocket fits a 24oz water bottle or umbrella

On the front of the bag, there's a slip pocket designed for a water bottle or umbrella. It's important to note that although a 24oz water bottle technically fits, once you pack the main compartment, it bulges into this front pocket. As a result, a water bottle will no longer fit once the bag is packed full so its not much of a dependable storage spot. But it is worth mentioning that we never had an issue fitting an umbrella.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Removable key leash inside front zipper pocket

There is also another large front zipper pocket that spans the entire front of the bag. This is where you'll find a removable key leash attached to a small loop. The idea is that you have the option to detach this key leash and place it in a pocket inside the main compartment for better security.

This large front zipper pocket is roomy enough to fit bulkier items, like a large pair of over-ear headphones or a pouch. However, it has a similar issue to the front water bottle pocket—if you overpack the main compartment, it will bulge into this pocket and leaves you with less packing space.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Hidden pockets behind back panel and inside shoulder straps

On the back of the Thirteen, there are a few hidden pockets for added security. Our favorite is the concealed pocket behind the back panel padding that can fit a cell phone and passport. Then, there are the hidden shoulder strap pockets, which are just large enough for items like a credit card or a metro card (we found they could just about fit a 3rd Gen AirPods case). You do have to be careful what you place inside these shoulder strap pockets because they are not secured with zippers.

Exterior Lash Points

For extra storage, the Thirteen Daybag gives you multiple lash points. There are two on the top of the bag for heavier items and a string of smaller daisy chains that are hidden at the bottom of the bag.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Exterior lash points and daisy chains for extra storage

Finally, there is a lash point by the zippers that not only allows you to secure the zippers down when you are on the move, but allows you to use a lock to lockdown the main compartment completely.

14” Laptop Sleeve

Inside the Thirteen Daybag you'll find a padded laptop sleeve for a laptop up to 14-inches. What makes this laptop sleeve great is that is has a centered design that allows your laptop to "float" in the middle of the main compartment. As a result. you have a generous false bottom at the bottom and great spacing all around the laptop sleeve for protection from bumps and drops. The sleeve itself features soft-lining on the inside to protect your device from scratches.

In front of the laptop sleeve is a second sleeve that can fit up to an 11-inch tablet. This sleeve isn't as padded but does provide the same "floating" design so that your tablet device is protected.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Shown with 14-inch laptop and 11-inch tablet inside

Our only gripe about the laptop sleeve is with accessibility. The top of the Thirteen Daybag hangs over the laptop sleeve, making it hard to access the laptop. In order to get full-access to the laptop sleeve, we found ourselves having to pull back the back panel to get the top X-Pac material out of the way.

What Fits Inside the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag?

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.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Inside pockets are packed with everyday essentials

Everyday Carry Packout

• 14” Laptop

• Small Notebook (or 11” tablet)

• Pen

• 24oz water bottle (inside side pocket)

• Sunglasses case (inside side pocket)

• Laptop charger and tech accessories (inside zip pocket)

A light jacket can squeeze into the main compartment when the water bottle and sunglasses case in the side pockets are removed.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag - Remove items from the side pockets and you can fill a notebook and a binder

School or Work Packout

• 14” Laptop

• Small Notebook (or 11” tablet)

• Pen

• Large 3-subject notebook

• 1-inch binder

• Laptop charger and tech accessories (inside zip pocket)

Larger items such as a lunch box, camera cube or shoes took up almost all of the inside space, making it impossible to pack the pockets. Our conclusion is this: the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag is a great backpack is you need to carry smaller essentials. Emphasis on the word 'smaller'!

Final Thoughts

After countless uses, we wholeheartedly recommend the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag to anyone seeking a high-quality daily backpack. This little backpack is built like a tank! The proof really is in our three-year-old Thirteen Daybag that still looks and feels like fresh after repeated use. The X-Pac material is durable, and we appreciate that Able Carry upgraded the internal lining to ripstop nylon. The shoulder straps are also among the most comfortable we've ever used on a backpack of this size, so it's safe to say that comfort has never been an issue.

The most important takeaway is that the internal packing space is pretty limited. While 13 liters is enough room for those looking to carry smaller essentials, once those internal pockets are filled, there isn't much room left over. Need an upgrade from a sling bag but don't want to carry a bulky backpack? The Able Carry Thirteen Daybag will be perfect. However, if you need something to carry bulky daily items like a lunch or a change of clothes and shoes, this bag might be too small for you. As long as you understand this backpack's limitations, it will serve as a reliable everyday backpack for years to come.

If you on the hunt for a small backpack with a similar footprint but with a little bit more packing room, we recommend taking a look at the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack, the Fjallraven Raven 20 or checking our buying guide of small backpacks for men.

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King Kong EDT Backpack [Review]

Introducing the Everyday Tactical (EDT) Backpack, King Kong's first-ever daily laptop backpack.

King Kong is best known for their rugged gym bags but they have really surprised us when they announced a smaller laptop backpack for everyday carry. This pack is a fusion of a high-end laptop backpack and a rugged tactical bag. From full grain leather accents to MOLLE webbing for attachments, it’s a nice blend of style and function.

In this King Kong EDT backpack review, we will dive into all of the details and explore if it’s worth the hype.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Side pockets are great for multi-use: water bottles, pens, phone, etc

• Light colored ripstop lining makes it easy to quickly find items inside the bag

• Real leather accents really elevate the look and feel

• Comfortable padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel

What we don’t like

• Laptop sleeve doesn’t have a false bottom to protect against drops

• Plastic buckles on the front. We wish King Kong had used metal for durability.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.7” (H) x 11.8” (W) x 5.1” (D)

• Capacity: 18L

• Materials: Full Grain American Leather, Nylon, Ripstop Nylon

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Size and Fit

The King Kong EDT Backpack offers a 18 liters of packing room, making it great for lugging around daily essentials. Despite its modest 18-liter capacity, this backpack falls on the larger side with a pretty big footprint on the back when worn.

The shoulder straps a nicely padded with breathable mesh, which are approximately 3.5 inches apart and wider than most at 3 inches. This design provides great comfort and support for large men and women with broad shoulders, however those with narrow shoulders and a smaller frame may find the straps a bit too wide.

We really love the back panel on the EDT. It’s cushioned and very breathable, featuring cutouts for airflow. The back panel is stiff to give the bag some structure but it isn’t too stiff and will still conform to your back for a personalized fit. For extra support, the backpack also features an adjustable sternum strap.

Materials and Construction

The King Kong EDT Backpack features a combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful construction. The bag uses full grain American leather trim on the front top panel, front bottom panel, top handle, and various touch points. The leather really adds sophistication to the bag that we only really see in luxury laptop backpacks.

Inside the backpack, King Kong uses light-colored ripstop nylon, providing excellent visibility to easily locate your items. Additionally, the backpack incorporates MOLLE webbing on the side pockets and front, offering versatile attachment options for extra gear.

While the bag includes convenient straps on the front for attaching items like a jacket, we found that the quality of the buckles on the straps is a bit disappointing, as they are made with plastic. Time will tell how these plastic buckles hold up, and we wished that King Kong had opted for sturdier metal buckles instead.

One appealing aspect of the EDT Backpack is the minimal branding. The only visible branding is a removable leather patch on the front, allowing you to personalize the bag with your own morale patch. This touch of customization adds to the backpack's overall appeal and versatility.

What fits inside the King Kong EDT Backpack?

The King Kong EDT Backpack offers 18 liters of packing space, providing enough room for your daily essentials. Inside the main compartment, you'll find a smart organization system with five different pockets, ensuring your belongings stay neat and easily accessible.

Inside the main compartment you’ll be greeted with a padded sleeve, perfect for securely stashing documents or an iPad. There are also slip pockets that can easily fit a laptop charger or sunglasses case. For further organization, two zippered pockets are available for smaller items, making it easy to keep stuff like pens and cables within reach.  Our favorite pocket has to be the hidden pocket underneath the King Kong label that can perfectly fit an Apple Airtag or Tile tracker.

In our tests, we found that the main compartment comfortably accommodated a few binders, notebooks, and folders, making it a practical choice for students and professionals alike.

Furthermore, the EDT Backpack can easily fit a change of clothing and shoes, making it suitable for quick gym visits or overnight trips. For work carry, the main compartment can also fit a lunch box and jacket inside the main compartment.

One thing to note is that the opening of the main compartment isn’t very wide. This is great for stacking your items on top of each other but can be trouble for large bulky items. Stuff like a camera cube and large lunch box had trouble fitting through the opening.

16” Laptop Compartment

The laptop compartment of the King Kong EDT Backpack is designed to accommodate up to a 16" laptop. And when King Kong says 16” laptop, they mean a 16” laptop and not just a Macbook Pro. We found that we could comfortably fit a big clunky 15.6” PC Laptop inside this compartment with some room to spare.

This laptop compartment is generously padded on all sides, offering reliable protection for your laptop. However, our main concern with the laptop compartment is missing a false bottom. Without a false bottom, the laptop compartment extends all the way to the bottom of the bag, potentially leaving the laptop vulnerable to drops and bumps. We would love if King Kong incorporated a false bottom into the design in future versions of this bag, as this small feature adds an extra layer of protection for valuable devices.

Outside Pockets

The King Kong EDT Backpack comes equipped with three quick-access exterior pockets.

The first is a small front pocket secured with a water-resistant zipper. This nifty pocket is perfect for safeguarding your phone, wallet, or sunglasses, ensuring they stay protected even during rain.

The standout feature of this backpack is the multi-use side pockets found on either side. These pockets cleverly zip shut when not in use, keeping them neatly out of the way and maintaining the bag's sleek appearance.

They serve as fantastic water bottle pockets, accommodating bottles of all sizes. We successfully fit a massive 40oz Hydroflask inside these side pockets with ease. Additionally, these pockets prove ideal for storing quick-access items like your phone, pen, or any other essentials you need on the go.

Final Thoughts

The EDT’s high-quality construction and thoughtful design choices truly impressed us, demonstrating King Kong's dedication to delivering top-notch products.

We have noticed that the quality of each King Kong bag keeps getting better and better with each new release. The Everyday Tactical is without a doubt their best release so far. The leather trim, the MOLLE webbing and cool urban backpack design has us excited about what King Kong will come up with next. It really is a mix of a high end backpack and rugged tactical bag. Best of both worlds.

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Able Carry Daily Plus [Review]

Able Carry has taken their popular Daily Backpack and made it even better with the Daily Plus. What does the "Plus" stand for? More pockets, improved organization, and a more water-resistant design, thanks to its X-Pac and water-resistant zipper combination. Is this the right backpack for you? Check out this review to find out.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Amazing organization for everyday carry items

• Very protective laptop and tablet sleeves that float to prevent damage from bumps and drops

• Hidden pocket for secret stashes

• Comfortable and breathable shoulder straps and back panel

What we don’t like

• X-Pac is a high-strength and highly water-resistant fabric, but it has a downside: it makes a crinkly, plastic-like noise when the pack is opened, which can be distracting. Are we nitpicking too much here? We had to list something.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.3” x 11.3” x 7.8” inches

• Capacity: 21L

• Weight: 2.6 lbs

• Materials: X-Pac

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 11” (does not fit 12.9” iPad Pro)

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Who is this backpack for?

Work Commuters: We love this backpack as a daily driver for work and commuting. The organization panel in the main compartment acts as a mobile office giving you spots for a laptop, pens and tech essentials. The hidden water bottle pocket and back security pocket also provide protection during crowded commutes.

Students who need great organization: The main compartment of the Daily Plus can fit multiple large notebooks, books and binders and has all of the tech organization you need for a busy day campus. We also like the Daily Plus as a waterproof college backpack for rainy days.

"I need a good laptop backpack that won't fall apart": With its high-quality, water-resistant construction and protective "floating" laptop and tablet sleeves, the Able Carry Daily Plus backpack will keep your tech protected from bumps, drops, and the elements. Able Carry did NOT skimp on quality with this pack.

Who it might not be for:

Travelers - The Daily Plus was designed as a daybag first and foremost so it’s missing common travel backpack features. You won’t be getting a trolley sleeve for attaching the Daily Plus to rolling luggage and it’s a little oversized to fit the size requirements as a personal item bag on flights (although it is small enough to fit under airplane seats on many larger planes).

Materials and Construction

Able Carry scores a win with the high-quality construction of the Daily Plus. Its X-Pac exterior and water-resistant zippers provide a weatherproof design that can be relied on to keep your gear protected on rainy days.

We cannot stress enough how every aspect of the Able Carry Daily Plus exudes quality. The zippers are smooth, the interior ripstop lining is sturdy, and even the material used for the stretch pockets feels high-quality—nothing seems like an afterthought.

One thing to note is that when compared to a fabric like nylon, X-Pac is a much stiffer material and feels more like plastic than fabric. As a result, handling the backpack results in a loud, "crunchy" sound. Although X-Pac is incredibly strong and water-resistant, we understand that it may not be everyone's preference for daily use.

The Daily Plus also features Able Carry's "A-Frame" webbing design on the underside of the bag, which adds extra strength to the backpack when carrying heavy loads. This design is a substantial improvement in terms of strength compared to regular backpack stitching alone.

Pockets and Compartments

What sets the Daily Plus apart from its predecessor, the Daily Backpack, is the addition of numerous pockets for organization.

Inside the main compartment, you'll find the bulk of your storage, including a tech panel with a 16-inch laptop sleeve and a separate tablet sleeve for a device up to 11-inches (sorry, iPad Pro users, a 12.9” tablet won’t fit).

The great thing about the laptop and tablet sleeves is that they float in the middle of the backpack, providing ample protection from all sides. Additionally, the laptop sleeve has a generous false bottom to prevent damage from drops, which is a feature that many other backpack brands overlook.

On the exterior of the backpack, you'll find a hidden water bottle pocket that can fit bottles up to 1 liter, as well as a spacious front compartment with smaller pockets for easy access.

In terms of security pockets, the Able Carry Daily Plus offers two. The first is a hidden pocket above the shoulder straps against the back panel, which is large enough to hold multiple flat items such as a cell phone, passport, and wallet. When the backpack is worn, this pocket is completely out of reach from pickpockets. The second pocket is a small, well-concealed secret pocket located above the laptop sleeve, which is a little larger than a credit card.

Comfort (Back Panel and Shoulder Straps)

Able Carry is known for designing comfortable backpacks, and the Daily Plus is a testament to their expertise. The backpack features a closed-cell foam back panel that provides cushioning for comfortable weight distribution, even when carrying heavy loads. The back panel is includes with generous air channels, making it breathable enough to wear in warm weather. Additionally, the Daily Plus has a removable frame sheet for added stiffness that can be accessed via a zipper behind the laptop sleeve inside the main compartment.

The shoulder straps of the Daily Plus are padded with dense foam and provide ample support without being excessively bulky. The backpack also comes with an adjustable and removable chest strap with a magnetic buckle, making it easy to put on and take off.

Final Thoughts

This is a really nice backpack for everyday carry. We love the upgrades that Able Carry has made from the original Daily Backpack and are excited that they released this new iteration. If you are choosing between the two packs, we believe the Daily Plus is the clear winner. The separate laptop and tablet sleeves and dedicated water bottle compartment are significant upgrades.

The real victory is in the overall construction. We appreciate the water-resistant design and are glad they included water-resistant zippers in the main compartment instead of regular ones. This protection from the elements provides peace of mind when commuting in inclement weather and really boosts our confidence when choosing which backpack to wear on long days out.

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North Face Recon Backpack [Review]

One of The North Face’s best selling backpacks, the Recon features a roomy 30 liter main compartment and separate padded laptop compartment to keep your expensive tech safe while on the move.

The Recon is best suited for both school and daily tech carry thanks to its organizer panel pocket that can fit everything from pens and calculators to external hard drives and a tablet.

Note: The North Face offers both a Men’s Recon and Women’s Recon. The main difference is in the size and shape of the shoulder straps and back panel but all of the pockets and compartments are the same between the two versions. In this review we are showcasing the women’s Recon which is the one you want to go with if you have smaller shoulders and a shorter torso.

See our North Face Recon vs Borealis comparison for more in-depth info.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Lots of pockets and compartments for everyday carry.

• Multifunctional: 30 liter main compartment is large enough for a full day of school/work or a weekend trip.

• Men’s and women’s versions means a proper fit regardless of body type.

What we don’t like

• Side compression straps run across the water bottle pockets. It takes a moment to adjust the straps to accommodate different size bottles.

• Tablet sleeve is small. Anything larger than a 10.2” tablet will be too large for this pocket.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.3” H x 11.6” W x 7.5” D (women’s)

• Capacity: 30L

• Material: Mix of recycled and non-recycled materials (210D recycled nylon ripstop, 300D heathered polyester ripstop, 600D polyester, DWR finish)

• Weight: 2lbs 9oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

Who is this backpack for?

For Students: The North Face Recon is perfect for carrying school items. We recommend it to students who need a lot of organization for smaller school items and also have ample space for larger items like folders, binders, and lunch.

For Work Commuters: The North Face Recon, with its sleek urban design and internal tech organization, is an excellent choice for commuters who need a dependable backpack for their daily commute.

It might not be suitable for Travelers: Although the backpack has a spacious 30-liter main compartment that is ideal for travel packing, it lacks some standard travel features such as lockable zippers, security pockets for items like passports and wallets, and a trolley sleeve to attach the backpack to rolling luggage.

Materials and Construction

The North Face Recon is mostly made of 210D recycled ripstop nylon with a DWR water-repellent finish. What does this mean? The backpack is water-resistant to some extent. Water will roll off of the ripstop nylon but unfortunately the zippers are not water resistant and are an entry point for moisture to sneak in.

Is The North Face Recon waterproof? No.

Will it be okay in the rain? The Recon will be find in a light rain but we wouldn’t trust it walking home during a downpour.

Overall, The North Face Recon feels incredibly solid. This is not a cheap-feeling backpack! The ripstop construction is strong yet lightweight and the YKK zippers are as smooth as butter.

Pockets and Compartments

The North Face Recon backpack consists of three main compartments: the front organizer compartment, the main compartment, and the rear laptop compartment.

The front organizer compartment is where you can find quick access to smaller items like pens, tech chargers, and other essentials. There is also a fleece-lined tablet sleeve in this pocket, but it is on the smaller side. The largest tablet that fits in this pocket is a 10.2-inch iPad, which barely fits without a case (sorry, iPad Pro users).

The main compartment is a large, open space where you can fit 2-3 days of travel packing or a considerable amount of binders, notebooks, and folders - enough for a full day of classes. If you are a student and need to carry more than that, you might need to have a talk with your teachers.

The rear laptop compartment can accommodate a laptop up to 15 inches (the largest we tested was a 15.6-inch laptop, so we cannot confirm if larger laptops will fit). What we like about this compartment is that it offers excellent protection. Not only are the walls padded, but The North Face has also added a false bottom so that the bottom of the laptop is suspended above the bottom of the bag, providing extra protection against bumps and drops.

Another feature of the laptop compartment that isn’t talked about enough is the ability to it for storing a hydration bladder. This small feature allows you to turn The North Face Recon into a full-fledged hiking backpack.

On the front of the backpack there is the iconic front stash pocket. This pocket is stretchy, but not as spacious as you might expect. It is too small to fit a pair of shoes, although sandals might fit. It is also not large enough to store a bicycle helmet (sorry, commuters). However, you can store a lightweight, compressible puffy jacket and smaller items like a baseball cap and over-ear headphones in this pocket.

Other pockets include two side water bottle pockets and a hidden fleece-lined pocket in the front for storing tech and sunglasses.

Final Thoughts

Ok we will say it, we think this is the best North Face backpack design. It’s not as sporty as the Borealis but keeps its best features. It’s also not as unruly as the Surge and keeps the pockets and compartment to the point and easy to find. Think of the Recon as the goldilocks of North Face backpacks. It’s an urban backpack, an outdoor daybag and secure laptop backpack all in one.

Is it worth the price? Absolutely. 

The only real gripe we have with it is that The North Face makes the Recon seem more water resistant than it really is. But as long as you understand where it’s limits are we can’t recommend this backpack enough.

If you are looking for water resistant backpacks with better protection, check out the backpacks below.

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The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof [Review]

The Ridge updated the Commuter Weatherproof Backpack in late 2022, making a few tweaks to the design. In a world where tech is moving away from USB-A, the Ridge has decided to eliminate the built-in USB charging port and instead provide a dedicated internal power bank pocket to charge your devices regardless of your connection. This review is of the updated version without the USB port.

Who is The Ridge Commuter Backpack for?

• Work/Commuting: The Ridge Commuter is a great daily laptop backpack, with the most pockets we have seen in a bag of this size. If daily organization is important to you, this is the bag for you.

• Student: If you are a student who carries a laptop or tablet instead of books, we recommend this backpack for its great tech organization. Its weatherproof design also makes it a reliable option for carrying your important items during rainy days on campus.

• Travel by air: The compact size of the Ridge Commuter makes it a great personal item backpack for flights and a capable daypack for when you arrive at your destination. It has pockets for travel essentials like a your tech, snacks, headphones and a secret pocket for a passport.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Lots and lots of pockets for organization

• Slim, compact design is perfect for a daily laptop backpack

• Highly water resistant construction

• Hidden RFID-blocking compartment is perfect for keeping valuables secure

What we don’t like

• Water bottle pocket is on the smaller side and is limited to slim bottles

• No false bottom in laptop compartment

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” x 12” x 6” inches

• Capacity: 20L

• Materials: 900D Nylon Shell, YKK Aquagaurd Zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

Materials and Construction

The Ridge Commuter Backpack is called "weatherproof" - which just a fancy way of saying that the bag very water-resistant thanks to its water resistant nylon construction and YKK Aquaguard zippers.

Although the materials are highly water-resistant, this backpack is not truly waterproof. The Ridge uses regular stitching instead of taped or welded waterproof seams, so there is still a chance for water to sneak in if the bag were ever caught in a torrential downpour. It also goes without saying that The Ridge Commuter cannot be submerged in water.

The back panel and shoulder straps are great for a 20 liter bag. The shoulder straps are padded and include an adjustable (but not removable) chest strap for weight distribution when the backpack gets heavy. The back panel is made with one solid piece of padded foam and does a good job at adding structure to the backpack while being comfortable when the bag is full.

Overall, the construction of The Ridge Commuter is solid. The zippers are smooth, and nothing feels cheap. The weatherproof construction is a huge plus for a daily commuting backpack. In fact, the overall construction quality and the pocket variety (which we will get to in a second) are the Commuter's biggest strengths.

Pockets and Compartments

What sets The Ridge Commuter apart from other laptop backpacks is its "dual access" to the main compartment. This means that you can enter the main compartment from a zipper that opens like a regular backpack as well as from a secondary zipper that allows you full lay-flat access to the inside, so you can access all of its pockets.

Using The Ridge Commuter as a clamshell backpack allows you to access all of the pockets that line the main compartment as well as gives you an easy way to pack and unpack clothing while traveling. For everyday carry, going through the primary zipper will be the quickest way to access most items. We appreciate that The Ridge gave us a choice.

The inside of the main compartment is filled with a variety of pockets for all of your daily carry. It includes mesh zippered pockets for larger items, a special power bank pocket, and even a few slip pockets for pens.

On the outside of the backpack, you'll find a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket with a flap lid and a single water bottle pocket. It's important to note that this water bottle pocket is on the smaller side and just barely fits a 32 oz bottle (so you know). On the front of the backpack there are two additional large semi-hidden zippered pockets on the front panel.

Finally, we have the 16-inch laptop compartment that features special shock-resistant quilted padding for protection. We love the padding, but where is the false bottom to protect the laptop from floor drops? Unfortunately, this is a small detail that The Ridge has missed.

The Secret Compartments

The Ridge Commuter has a couple of secret compartments that are security-oriented. The first is the back panel pocket that spans across the width of the back panel. What makes this pocket special is that it is lined with RFID-blocking material for an added layer of protection against digital theft. It's the perfect place to stash important items like a passport, credit cards, and cash.

The second secret compartment is located against the wall of the main compartment, and it's a tiny little velcro pocket to fit a GPS tracking device like an Apple Airtag or Tile device. This pocket blends into the wall of the backpack nicely, and most people won't even notice it's there unless they look very, very closely.

Pssst: Are you looking for a backpack with hidden pockets? Check out our Best Backpacks with Secret Compartments buying guide.

What Fits Inside?

Although the Ridge Commuter gives you 20 liters of packing room, once all the internal pockets are packed it starts to feel like a small 20 liters. You can fit bulkier items inside the main compartment like a few large notebooks, binders, and books. Or, you can pack a change of clothing for an overnight stay, but you won’t be able to pack clothing and the notebooks all at once.

Final Thoughts

Where the Ridge Commuter shines is with its amazing array of pockets for organization and robust water-resistant construction that will give you some serious peace of mind on rainy days.

Is the Ridge Commuter worth it? Yes, if you value organization and a compact design over wide open packing space.

This is a slim 20L backpack that prioritizes packing smaller daily or travel items over big, bulky items. If you need to pack a change of clothes, lunch, camera gear, and a jacket just in case you get cold later, then look elsewhere.

But, if you are a tech-focused student (i.e. have ditched the textbooks for PDFs), travel light, or need a way to carry your laptop and important work items, then this backpack is for you.

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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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Matein Travel Laptop Backpack [Review]

Rated as one of the most popular backpacks available on Amazon, the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack (15.6 inch version) is an affordable option for everyone from students and commuters to travelers alike.

This backpack can be divided into three major compartments: the main compartment, the front organizer compartment, and the rear laptop compartment. The main compartment is where you will find the bulk of your storage, and we found that you can easily pack bulkier notebooks, binders, and textbooks into this compartment or a couple of days' worth of clothing and toiletries.

The second major compartment is the front organizer compartment, which features smaller pockets for items like pens, a phone, and small notebooks. There is even a detachable leash for your keys. In the rear is where you'll find the laptop compartment, which features a padded sleeve for a laptop up to 15.6 inches, plus an additional non-padded sleeve for a tablet. This rear compartment is also roomy enough to pack additional notebooks or for a second laptop inside a laptop case.

The quality of the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is surprisingly good for the price, with a mid-weight polyester exterior and metal zippers. Not to mention features like an exterior USB charging port and great pocket variety that punches above its price point.

However, it doesn't come close to the quality of a more expensive backpack, and you will start to see that in the small details. For example, the water bottle pockets are made of cheap mesh and are a little too shallow to securely hold tall bottles, and the interior lining is on the thinner side, which questions its durability after heavy use.

Despite its flaws, for $30 you really can't go wrong with this backpack, and we definitely recommend it for students, commuters, and travelers looking for a reliable laptop backpack on a budget.

What we like

• Affordable price makes it perfect for students and travelers on a budget

• Three compartments so you can organize your carry into different packing zones

• Integrated USB charging (bring your own power bank)

• Lots and lots of pockets for organization

What we don’t like

• Lining and stitching on the inside is pretty flimsy and we question it’s longevity. However, the overall quality is about on par with bags in this price point.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” x 12” x 7.8” inches

• Capacity: Unspecified (we would guess around 25L)

• Weight: 1.56 lbs

• Materials: Polyester

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15.6”

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 12.9” iPad Pro

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft [Review]

One of the biggest strengths of the Pacsafe Go is that it's an anti-theft backpack that doesn't look like your typical anti-theft backpack. While many brands offer futuristic, ultra-minimalist designs that look more like props from a sci-fi movie, the Pacsafe Go offers a more "gray man" option that's designed to blend in and not draw much attention. 

But despite its no-frills appearance, the Pacsafe Go is built from the ground up with anti-theft technology. The fabric itself is made with Pacsafe's eXomesh slashguard, a built-in wire mesh that prevents theft through cuts and slashes. Each exterior zipper also includes built-in locks to prevent pickpockets. You can also lock the entire bag to a table or chair leg using the lockable shoulder strap. These features make such a simple bag anything but ordinary.

The Pacsafe Go is a great all-around backpack that can be used as a daily pack or a dedicated travel backpack. At 25 liters, it's the perfect size for packing for an overnight stay or as a personal item backpack on airplanes. Students and commuters will also benefit from the extra anti-theft protection on busy campuses and crowded public transportation, and the water-resistant shell gives you extra protection on rainy days.

The pockets and compartments on the Pacsafe Go are straightforward: you have a laptop sleeve and an anti-RFID pocket inside the main compartment, and a large front pocket gives you extra storage room. Two side pockets provide a spot for water bottles and umbrellas. If you are looking for a backpack with lots of pockets for organizing smaller items then the Pacsafe Go might not be the best option - but what it does do well is offer a straightforward design for those who value simplicity in a lightweight package. 

All in all, Pacsafe offers a solid choice for daily carry and travel alike. The Pacsafe Go is lightweight, water-resistant, and has plenty of storage for most tasks at hand – school, daily carry, and travel - leaving us with little to be desired.

What we like

• Built in anti-theft features for maximum protection against pickpockets and theft

• 25L is the perfect size for school or as a travel daypack

• Low-key “gray man” design that blends in with other backpacks

• Water repellent fabric

What we don’t like

• Side water bottle pockets have no stretch to them so fitting larger bottles can be a hassle.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.1” x 12.2” x 5.5” inches

• Capacity: 25L

• Weight: 1.6 lbs

• Materials: water resistant recycled polyester

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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WANDRD PRVKE [Review]

If you're looking for a backpack that can do it all, you'll be hard-pressed to find one more versatile than the WANDRD PRVKE. It's a camera bag, travel pack, and daily laptop backpack all-in-one, thanks to its modular interior that allows you to configure your carry how you want to. The rolltop design also makes it an expandable backpack, giving you more packing room when you need it. Plus, the PRVKE comes in three different sizes (21L, 31L, and 41L) so you can find the perfect size and fit.

A special feature of the WANDRD PRVKE is its dual main compartment access, which allows you to enter the backpack through the rolltop as well as through a rear zipper for full clamshell access to your gear. From the rear, you'll have access to all the smaller pockets inside the main compartment, as well as the padded laptop and tablet sleeves.

If you're a photographer, you can add a WANDRD camera cube to turn the PRVKE into a fully functional camera bag that's just as thoughtfully designed as its rivals. You'll have special pockets for photography accessories like SD cards, and a side window allows for quick-draw access to your camera.

If you're not a photographer, the PRVKE works just as well as a travel or daily backpack. The dual-access main compartment makes it super easy to pack and unpack clothing and daily carry, and the waterproof materials and weather-resistant zippers come in handy on rainy commutes to work or school. The bag also features daily carry essentials like a place to stash your keys, sunglasses, and water bottle. This bag really doesn't miss a beat!

What we like

• Modular interior that let’s you partition the inside to different packing zones

• Dual access entry to the main compartment (rolltop and clamshell zipper)

• Lots of low-key and hidden exterior pockets for quick access to essentials

• Highly water resistant design - weatherproof zippers and waterproof tarpaulin exterior

What we don’t like

• Pockets inside the main compartment are geared towards small camera accessories. We wish there were larger internal pockets there for stuff like external hard drives or large laptop power bricks.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17” x 11” x 6.5” inches

• Capacity: 21L (available in 31L & 41L)

• Weight: 2.8 lbs

• Materials: Waterproof Tarpaulin, 1680D Ballistic Nylon, weather resistant zippers

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 14” Macbook Pro

• Tablet Sleeve: Up to 12.9” iPad Pro

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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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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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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North Face Surge Backpack

The North Face Surge is the brand’s premier commuter backpack now updated to fit more of life’s daily carry. This backpack is fairly large with a 31 liter main compartment and separate “mobile office” compartment that fits a laptop, tablet and documents. We also found that this mobile office compartment can hold up to two laptops - making the Surge a good choice for a dual laptop backpack.

When it comes to organization of daily essentials, the Surge is easily best in class. Along with an entire organizer compartment filled with smaller pockets, the Surge also includes two front zippered pockets for even more organization for your gear.

Note: The North Face face offers the men’s Surge and women’s Surge so that you can find the perfect fit. The women’s Surge is better suited for those with slimmer shoulders and shorter torsos.

What we like

• Maximum organization - Lots of pockets for tech and smaller items

• Laptop compartment is great for stashing a laptop (or two), tablet and documents.

• Light colored internal lining makes finding items inside the backpack quick and easy.

What we don’t like

• No side compression straps

• Great for school or business casual but a little too sporty to be used in professional work settings. There are more mature backpacks out there for both men and women.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” H x 12” W x 7” D

• Capacity: 31L

• Material: 210D recycled nylon ripstop, 600D polyester, non-PFC DWR finish, YKK Zippers

• Weight: 2 lb 12 oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

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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North Face Jester Backpack

One of The North Face’s most popular backpack designs, the Jester is the perfect blend of outdoor design and urban functionality. At 27 liters the North Face Jester is a great choice for anyone who wants a lightweight backpack without the bulk.

When it comes to organization the Jester keeps it pretty simple with just two compartments. The main compartment is where you’ll find the padded 15” laptop sleeve and a second compartment features plenty of pocket to keep your essentials organized.

Note: The North Face face offers the men’s Jester and women’s Jester so that you can find the perfect fit. The women’s Jester is better suited for those with slimmer shoulders and shorter torsos.

What we like

• Perfect size for daily carry with just the right amount of pockets.

• Lightweight

• Bungee is great for attaching a light jacket or hoodie without taking up space in the main compartment.

What we don’t like

• The Jester is a good value for the price but it’s still a few steps down from the Borealis in terms of quality, construction and organization.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.13” H x 11” W x 8.25” D

• Capacity: 27L

• Material: 600D Recycled Polyester with non-PFC DWR finish

• Weight: 1lbs 10oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Able Carry Max Backpack

Able Carry departs from their smaller daypacks and offers their first larger multi-function bag for work, play and travel with the Max backpack.

As a clamshell backpack, the Max offers a generous 30 liter main compartment that can be used for anything from workout days to multi-day travel. The admin compartment located behind the main compartment gives you the convenience of a mobile office by featuring a large 17” laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets for pens, paperwork and tech accessories.

If you serious about finding one bag to rule them all then we definitely recommend taking a closer look at the Able Carry Max backpack.

What we like

• Large clamshell main compartment allows for easy packing and unpacking. Comes in handy on travel and gym days!

• Hidden water bottle pocket keeps the outside of the bag looking streamlined and our drinking bottles clean.

• Cordura bottom, ripstop lining and nylon webbing makes the bag feel like great quality both inside and out.

What we DON’T like

• We would love to see a secondary padded sleeve for a tablet.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20.5"H x 12.5"W x 8"D

• Capacity: 30L

• Material: XPAC Shell, 1000D Cordura Nylon, 420D Ripstop Nylon

• Weight: 3.79lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

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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HEX Technical Backpack (with wireless charging)

HEX raises the bar for modern carry with their new Technical Backpack.

The HEX Technical Backpack has two standout features: It’s made with antimicrobial fabric technology which repels up to 99% of harmful bacteria and features an innovative wireless charging pocket that gives you hands-free phone charging anywhere you go.

One of the things we love about this backpack is that it feels like great quality when you handle it. The bag is made out of super durable Cordura ballistic nylon and YKK zippers so you know it’s made to last. Add in a 16” faux fur laptop sleeve and a myriad of pockets and you have the perfect daily driver for work or play.

Read our full HEX Technical Backpack review for a more in-depth look.

What we like

• Made with antimicrobial fabric technology to keep germs to a minimum.

• Ability to charge your phone wirelessly thanks to the special charging pocket

• Plenty of pockets for your everyday gear: laptop, accessories and personal items.

What we DON’T like

• Bring your own power bank: In order to take advantage of the wireless charging pocket you need a wireless power bank. Fortunately, HEX sells their own Wireless Power Bank that is guaranteed to work flawlessly with the wireless charging pocket.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5"H x 11.5"W x 4.75"D

• Capacity: 17.5L

• Material: 1680 Cordura ballistic nylon, YKK EYL woven “tough zippers” Antimicrobial technology on the fabric.

• Weight: 2lbs

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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Black Ember Shadow

The Shadow backpack is the latest edition to the Black Ember family and it features all that we come to love about the brand in a smaller profile.

Designed as a simpler daypack for daily carry, the Black Ember Shadow is anything but simple. The Shadow is equipped with a waterproof construction thanks to its waterproof nylon crossweave exterior and YKK Aquaguard zippers. Black Ember also gives you full clamshell access to the main compartment where you’ll find pocket for everything from your tech to smaller daily essentials.

Available in either 22 liter or 26 liter sizes - the Black Ember Shadow is a nice compliment to its bigger minimalist brother the Black Ember Citadel R2.

What we like

• Waterproof materials: Great for protecting expensive tech and gear.

• Minimalist exterior: Black Ember keeps the design clean and simple without any flashy design features or obnoxious branding.

• Lighter weight: Black Ember’s use of nylon crossweave is a nice departure from some of their other heavier-duty backpacks.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Capacity: 22L or 26L

• Material: Waterproof Nylon Crossweave, YKK Aquaguard zippers, 200D Ripstop lining

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack

GBY Ultralight claims that their Ultralight Laptop Day Pack is the lightest laptop backpack in the world… and we believe it! This backpack weighs only 12.8 ounces and still manages to squeeze in a protective high density foam sleeve for a laptop or tablet. While other backpacks may be light, very few make laptop protection a priority like the GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack does.

Although much of the design-inspiration comes from lightweight outdoor packs the Ultralight Laptop Day Pack is ultimately designed for urban carry and daily commuting. A single slip pocket on the inside is great for small items or documents while a weatherproof side zip pocket allows for quick access to essentials like a water bottle, passport or sunglasses. The laptop sleeve is fully padded with a false bottom so your laptop doesn’t touch the bottom of the bag when placed on the ground.

What we like

• It’s not a gimmick - this is the lightest laptop backpack we have ever come across. The difference between the GBY Ultralight and your standard laptop backpack is night and day.

• Water resistant fabric and zippers makes it great for commuting on rainy days.

• Really comfortable - the light weight + ergonomic shoulder straps feels like wearing air.

What we don’t like

• Organization is limited. You are limited to only two pockets for smaller items - one slip pocket on the inside and the side zip pocket on the outside. Could use another small pocket for organizing things like pens, keys and charging cables.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11 W" x 6.7" D

• Weight: 12.8 oz.

• Volume: 20L

• Materials:  Japanese SS2-Ultra waterproof fabric, YKK water resistant zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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North Face Borealis Backpack

The North Face Borealis is a versatile backpack that can be used for anything from school to light travel. Its medium size has made it popular with those who want a functional backpack without the bulk.

Unlike the similar North Face Jester, the Borealis offers a separate premium laptop compartment for incredible protection of your expensive tech. The front compartment includes a fleece-lined tablet pocket and tons of smaller pockets for organization. Use the front bungee system to quickly stash jackets, blankets and other larger items when you are on the move.

Note: The North Face face offers the men’s Borealis and women’s Borealis so that you can find the perfect fit. The women’s Borealis is better suited for those with slimmer shoulders and shorter torsos.

What we like

• Great laptop compartment with suspended bottom for extra protection from drops.

• Upgraded bungee systems allows for easier attachement of bulky items

• Best in class organization - lots of smaller pockets and compartment

• DWR finish adds great water resistance to fabric.

What we don’t like

• Side bungee cords are a good replacement for compression straps but can get in the way of the water bottle pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 12” W x 6.5” D

• Capacity: 28L (27L women’s)

• Material: 210D recycled nylon ripstop, 300D heathered polyester, 600D polyester, non-PFC DWR finish

• Weight: 2lbs 5oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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