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.

---

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.

---

---

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.

---

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

---

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

---

Chrome Barrage Cargo

The Chrome Barrage Cargo is a daily commuter backpack with an expandable rolltop design and durable weatherproof construction for peace of mind on rainy days. What makes the Barrage Cargo stand out from other commuter packs is its large cargo net that allows for extra storage of oversized items such as a bike helmet or shoes.

For an in-depth look at this backpack check out our hands-on Chrome Barrage Cargo review.

What we like

• Rugged bombproof construction made with heavy-duty materials

• Waterproof interior tarp liner and welded seams protects your gear during rainy commutes

• Cargo net comes in the handy when hauling bulky items

• The seatbelt sternum strap buckle is actually pretty fun to use (plus it looks cool)

What we don’t like

• Internal laptop pocket is not padded (a padded laptop sleeve is recommended)

• It’s heavy - weighs 3lbs when empty

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” H x 11.75” W x 6” D

• Capacity: 18-22L

• Materials: 1050D Nylon, 22oz 1000D TPE tarp

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

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

Similar Backpacks

---

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

The ReNew Transit is Everlane’s modern take on the travel backpack. Packed with accessible pockets, a roomy main compartment and even a separate-access padded laptop sleeve, the ReNew Transit is Everlane’s most versatile backpack design to date.

Designed for both men and women, the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack is a medium-sized bag with a roomy 27 liter main compartment making it perfect for everything from busy work commutes to weekend trips.

For a hands-on look, check out our full Everlane ReNew Transit backpack review.

What we like

• Stylish minimalist design that is sleek enough to wear to work or on casual days.

• Carefully placed pockets on the front and top of backpack makes grabbing small items easy.

• Airline friendly size - can be used as a personal item backpack on flights.

What we don’t like

• Side water bottle pocket is not gusseted so it can be a tight squeeze when backpack is full.

• No organizers for things like a phone, pens or a passport

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” W x 7.25” D

• Capacity: 27L

• Materials: Recycled Polyester with environmental friendly CO water-resistant finish

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Chrome Summoner Backpack

The Chrome Modal is all about smart carry by providing easy access to your essentials while you are on the move. Just like the larger Chrome Macheto, the Modal’s main compartment is made of up of a dual organizer system that allows for separation of items.

Even when the main compartment is zippered shut, each section is easily accessible from the outside. The front compartment can be accessed from the front like a duffel bag while the back compartment that holds your laptop can be accessed from the top of the bag.

What we like

• Really sleek modern design that gives you easy access to virtually every pocket and organizer inside the bag.

• Dual internal organizational compartments keeps things neat and separate inside the main compartment.

What we don’t like

• No external water bottle pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 13” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 32L

• Materials: Polyester/600D Twill melange fabric

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Chrome Hondo Backpack

The Chrome Hondo is a midsize water resistant backpack for those who need a reliable commuter pack for work, school or exploring the city. The backpack keeps it simple with only a laptop sleeve and organizer in the main compartment and two side pockets and a front stash pocket on the outside. The Hondo is great for those who prefer a back-to-basics backpack that doesn’t have a million pockets and organizers for stuff to get lost in.

What we like

• Water resistant design makes it ideal for cyclist and city commuters.

• The bag looks and feels high quality. 1050D nylon feels like it will hold up to abuse and the metal buckle on the sternum strap is a nice touch.

What we don’t like

• Side pockets have no give to them. It can be hard to fit a water bottle in there if the pack is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 11” W x 5.5” D

• Capacity: 21L

• Materials: 1050D Nylon

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Chrome Urban EX Rolltop Backpack

The Chrome Urban Ex is a waterproof rolltop backpack that packs a punch with a roomy main compartment, laptop sleeve and separate padded iPad sleeve. The outside of the pack offers a small quick stash pocket on the top of the bag while loops on the front of the bag act as attachments for bike locks.

The Chrome Urban Ex Rolltop backpack comes in three sizes:

• 28L Urban Ex

• 22L Urban Ex Gas Can

• 18L Urban Ex

The photos and specs on this page are for the 28 liter version.

What we like

• Padded shoulder straps and back are comfortable and distributes weight evenly when pack is full.

• Waterproof design makes it ideal for cyclist and city commuters.

What we don’t like

• Lack of outside pockets for things like water bottles and other quick access items. Only outside pocket is the top pocket for a small item like a passport or phone.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 14” W x 6” D

• Capacity: 28L

• Materials: 600D Polyester/Nylon upper and synthetic rubber bottom

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15” + padded iPad sleeve

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Bellroy Classic Backpack

Made for modern urban carry, the Bellroy Classic Backpack was designed for anyone who wants a small reliable backpack for everyday use.

The Classic Backpack’s design is mature enough to wear to work, gym or on the weekends without feeling like you are lugging around a kid’s school bag. Its size is not too overbearing or bulky but somehow it manages to comfortably carry our essentials thanks to it’s thoughtfully designed pocket placement and roomy main compartment for bulkier items.

What we like

• Well constructed design that feels quality. Leather accents give the bag a premium feel.

• Laptop and file sleeves in the main compartment are well designed. Able to safely hold laptop, files or tablet and pen.

What we don’t like

• No other outside pockets except for a small valuables pocket on the top of the bag. This means you have to open the main compartment to fetch smaller items like sunglasses or water bottle.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.29” H x 14.57” W x 2.76” D

• Capacity: 17L

• Materials: Venture-weave polyester with leather accents

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

---

Timbuk2 Division Backpack

With the Division backpack, Timbuk2 set out to design mature backpack for those who want great functionality without looking like a high school student. The Timbuk2 Division is made up of two main sections; a roomy main compartment with an organizer panel and the separate padded compartment for your laptop that rests against the back.

If 22 liters is a bit too small for your carry needs, Timbuk2 also offers the 28-liter Authority backpack that has a lot of the same design features as the Division with more storage space and a few more pockets.

What we like

• Great commuter backpack. Slim profile looks clean and professional enough to wear at the office.

• External compression straps allows the backpack to hold more than you would expect.

What we don’t like

• Items in the font outside pocket can be hard to access when the main compartment is full. The pocket is deep and narrow.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.3” H x 11” W x 4.33” D

• Weight: 2.1lbs

• Capacity: 22L

• Material: Varies by color

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

---

United By Blue Rift Pack

United By Blue offers a versatile backpack for everything from short hikes to city commuting with their Rift Pack. The backpack is made of a tough water repellent polyester with vegetable tanned leather accents to give it a vintage heritage flare. At 25 liters, the Rift can hold a fair amount in its main compartment without being too bulky.

What we like

• Water repellent polyester makes this backpack durable enough for outdoor wear, travel or city commuting.

• Plenty of organizers for smaller items.

What we don’t like

• Front outside pocket is fastened by a magnet which doesn’t feel too secure.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 14” W x 7.75” D

• Capacity: 25L

• Materials: 100% Recycled Polyester with water repellent finish

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Timbuck2 Tuck Pack Backpack

Timbuk2 offers a back-to-basics rolltop backpack with some modern flare with their Tuck Pack. Some modern upgrades to the classic rolltop design include a side access padded laptop compartment and organizers inside the main compartment. Side pockets are perfect for water bottles or bike locks making the Timbuk2 Tuck a great option for daily urban carry.

What we like

• Good small/mid size backpack for everyday commutes. Stylish enough to be worn just about anywhere.

• Rolltop style allows for more storage vertically.

• Side access to laptop compartment so you don’t have to undo the rolltop to access your tech.

What we don’t like

• Outside pockets (side and front) can be hard to access when the main compartment is full.

• Clip that secures the rolltop is made out of plastic. Not sure how that will hold up over time.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.1” H x 15.4” W x 6.30” D

• Weight: 1.5lbs

• Capacity: 20L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

---

Timbuk2 Authority Backpack

With a slim and modern design, the Timbuk2 Authority is the perfect backpack for work commutes or daily carry in the city.

The bag is made up of three main sections. The front compartment features an organizer panel for your small items, the main compartment can fit bulkier gear and a separate padded compartment keeps your laptop accessible while protecting it from bumps and drops.

At 28 liter capacity, the Timbuk2 Authority can be described as a larger upgrade to the 22 liter Timbuk2 Division backpack.

What we like

• Structured and slime profile looks clean and professional enough to wear at the office.

• Padded laptop compartment can fit larger laptops up to 17-inches.

• Airmesh back and padded shoulder straps are very comfortable, even when the bag is fully loaded.

What we don’t like

• Narrow compartments makes it hard to store bulkier items. Bag shape makes it feel like less than 28 liter.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.1” H x 11.4” W x 5.91” D

• Weight: 2.4lbs

• Capacity: 28L

• Material: Nylon or 600D Melange Polyester (varies by color)

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

---

Timbuk2 Recruit Backpack

Timbuk2 manages with offer a backpack with a small footprint without compromising on carry capacity with their Recruit backpack. The Timbuk2 Recruit can comfortably carry a 13-inch laptop and a few books while still having plenty of space in its smaller front pockets for personal items.

What we like

• Perfect size for petite women or people with smaller frames.

• Shoulder straps are padded and very comfortable.

• Good amount of pockets and organizers. Great for daily carry.

What we don’t like

• Quality of the zippers isn’t the best.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 15” H x 9.45” W x 3.94” D

• Capacity: 12L

• Materials: Premium twill fabric

• Weight: 1.3 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 13”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

---

Samsonite Modern Utility Paracycle Backpack

Versatile enough for work, school or travel; the Samsonite Modern Utility Paracycle backpack offers a twist to the popular rucksack style with loads of modern features.

The Modern Utility Paracycle backpack is split into three compartments, a roomy main compartment, a separate laptop compartment and the front organizer for small items. Add in tough ripstop polyester and comfortable air mesh back and shoulder straps and you have an urban commuter backpack that is ready for just about anything.

What we like

• Spacious main compartment is perfect for overnight stays, daily school/work carry or travel.

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

What we don’t like

• If heavy items are placed in the front zip pocket it can tilt the bag forward and make accessing the organizer underneath annoying.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.75” H x 12” W x 8” D

• Weight: 2lbs

• Material: Ripstop Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

---

Burton Prospect Backpack

The Burton Prospect backpack is a small capacity backpack for those who need to just carry the basics. Although this won’t be your go-to book bag for busy days at school, it’s perfect for days out on the town or work commutes where you need to just carry the basics.

What we like

• We like this as a small daily carry commuter backpack for those who don’t need tons of storage room.

• Tons of color and pattern options.

• Laptop sleeve with separate tablet sleeve in main compartment.

What we don’t like

• Side pocket doesn’t stretch out as far as we would like. Can be hard to fit larger water bottles in the side pockets when the main compartment is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11.5” W x 7.5” D

• Capacity: 21L

• Materials: 600D Polyester

• Weight: 1 .5 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

---

Everlane Modern Snap Backpack

The Everlane Modern Snap backpack is one the brand’s most popular bags and it’s easy to see why. The Modern Snap Backpack is stylish enough to wear while running weekend errands yet sophisticated enough as a work commuter bag. The sleek design looks great on both men and women while the size is perfect for people with smaller frames who want to avoid bulky backpacks.

What we like

• Stylish modern rucksack design that can be worn to work or on the weekends.

• Main compartment is spacious and can fit everything from books, binders to a change of clothes.

What we don’t like

• Side pockets are not gusseted so it can be hard to fit things like water bottles or umbrellas when the pack is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12” W x 5.5” D

• Capacity: 29L

• Materials: Water resistant cotton twill with leather accents

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---