Under Armour Hustle 5.0 [Review]

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 was designed with student athletes in mind and you can see this inspiration throughout its design. A roomy 29-liter capacity gives you enough room for a busy day of classes and a bottom shoe compartment allows you to partition shoes, laundry and other items you want to keep separate from the rest of your carry.

Is this one of the best affordable backpacks for school and workouts? Let’s find out.

Video Review

The Rundown

What we like

• Roomy 29L capacity is large enough to store a basketball, shoes, school books and more.

• Available in lots of colors for a personalized look

• Soft-lined laptop sleeve and front valuables pocket to protect tech from scratches

• Bottom shoe compartment is great for keeping dirty stuff away from clean items

What we don’t like

• Light weight and low cost comes at a cost to overall quality. The MSRP is $55 and to be honest, this backpack feels like a budget backpack.

• UA Storm Technology is a bit oversold. Although the bag is technically water resistant, it’s nothing special.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” (H) x 12.6” (W) x 6.3” (D)

• Capacity: 29L

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

Who is this backpack for?

• For Students: The roomy main compartment is perfect for storing your laptop, books and notebooks while the exterior pockets give you the organization you need for pens and accessories. The Hustle 5.0 is a nice Goldilocks size for school - not too big and not too small.

• For Athletes and Gym Goers: The bottom compartment is handy for separating your dirty shoes or laundry from your clean items. The MOLLE webbing on the front and shoulder straps also makes it easy to attach additional gear. 

What fits inside? Pockets and Compartments

The Hustle backpack can be divided into three major compartments: the front admin compartment, the main compartment, and a bottom shoe compartment.

The front admin compartment features slip pockets for pens and accessories and is also large enough to store a couple of additional notebooks and smaller books.

The main compartment is where you will find a soft-lined 15-laptop sleeve. Under Armour did a good job at providing a false bottom so that the laptop sleeve floats about two inches from the bottom of the bag to prevent damage from drops.

If you are using the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 primarily as a school backpack, the 29-liter capacity can fit a fair number of large binders, books, and notebooks. 

For sports, workouts, and travel, you can fit three or four days' worth of clothing and toiletries depending on how lightly you pack. A full-sized basketball takes up about half of the inside of the main compartment.

The last major compartment is the bottom shoe compartment. Our testing revealed that it can easily fit a full-sized #7 basketball as well as size US 12 men’s running shoes.

What fits inside the shoe compartment? Men’s US size 12 shoes (left) Size 7 full sized basketball (right)

One important thing to mention about the shoe compartment, however, is that it shares its space with the main compartment. This means that whatever you store in this shoe compartment will take up room inside the main compartment. When Under Armour says this bottom compartment is "expandable," they mean it expands into the backpack.

Under Armour includes a few additional exterior pockets for extra organization. The first is the fleece-lined pocket on the front of the bag that is large enough for items such as a phone, sunglasses, or wallet.

There are also two side pockets for items such as water bottles and umbrellas. These pockets can easily hold larger 32-ounce bottles.

Materials and Construction

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is primarily made of polyester, making it very lightweight. Seriously - when empty, this backpack feels like air.

However, this lightweight construction comes at the cost of overall quality. The outer fabric and inner lining feel thinner than we would like, and the stitching throughout is very simple, which is most evident when looking at the inside pockets. If you want a heavy-duty backpack, you might want to consider spending a little bit more and finding a bag made with more substantial materials. Our Best Backpack with Shoe Compartments buying guide features some great alternatives.

The shoulder straps are nicely cushioned and very comfortable, we have no complaints here. However, the cushioned foam back panel leaves something to be desired. There is no structure to it, making it easy for oddly shaped items to poke into your back, which is our largest complaint.

Under Armour also does not include a chest strap or waist belt for additional support. We actually like this about Under Armour backpacks because it means fewer annoying dangling straps, but it might be a deal breaker for those intending to carry heavier loads and would like the extra support.

Waterproof? UA Storm Technology

Under Armour uses its UA Storm Technology as a selling point for this backpack, and we are here to set a few things straight. Although the fabric has a water-resistant coating, we believe that the UA Storm technology is a bit oversold in our opinion. If water gets on the fabric, it will roll off, but under heavy rain, water will find its way into the backpack with repeated exposure.

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 also does not include any special water-resistant stitching, and the zipper for the main compartment, where your expensive laptop will be, is not water-resistant either, giving it weak points for water to sneak in. This construction is not anything special, nor is it bad. In fact, most backpacks are built this way and offer the same level of protection.

Will you be okay in a light rain? Yes. Is the Under Armour Hustle backpack waterproof? No, not even a little bit.

Final Thoughts

Buy on Amazon

Under Armour's best-selling backpack is popular for a reason - it hits enough sweet spots to a broad spectrum of people. It can be used as a gym bag, a sports bag, a school bookbag, and even for travel in a pinch. What's not to like?

With an MSRP of $55, you really can't go wrong. However, it's important to understand that this backpack isn't high-end. It's not made with the best materials, nor is it the most water-resistant backpack you can get. But if you're looking for a backpack that balances functionality and affordability, the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is perfect.

---

---

Got Bag Daypack

The Got Bag Daypack is a compact backpack for work, weekends and travel that combines a stylish minimalist design with a sustainable ethos.

Each Daypack is constructed with Got Bag’s Ocean Impact Plastic, a fabric that is made out of recycled ocean plastic waste and the brand is dedicated to offering sustainable circular manufacturing process with a strong initiative to help clean up our oceans while providing stylish bags in the process. You can learn more about Got Bag’s awesome recycling initiatives here.

Inside the Daypack you are greeted with a padded 13” laptop sleeve and 11 liters of packing room for essentials. Although some may find the internal packing room too small for busy school or work days, it’s the perfect size to use as a lightweight daily laptop backpack and its compact dimensions make it the perfect personal item backpack for flights with strict bag requirements. The small footprint and slim shoulder straps also make the Got Bag Daypack ideal for those with smaller shoulders who find most backpacks too large and bulky.

The Daypack’s water resistant construction also gives it an edge over most compact backpacks on the market. Although not waterproof, the Daypack will protect against light rain and splashes thanks to its water resistant coating that is free from harmful PVC and PFC.

Overall, the Got Bag Daypack is a great backpack for those days where you just need a stylish hand-free way to carry the essentials. With tons of great colors to choose from and sustainable construction - you really can’t go wrong!

What we like

• Stylish modern design with option to carry like a tote bag thanks to its integrated top handles

• Available in lots of fun colors

• Padded laptop sleeve has a false bottom to protect against bumps and drops

• Water resistant design for peace of mind outdoors

What we don’t like

• While equipped with two large zippered pockets, we wish there was more pocket organization for smaller items like keys and sunglasses.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 14” (H) x 11” (W) x 5” (D)

• Capacity: 11L

• Materials: 60% Ocean Impact Plastic fabric, 20% recycled materials, 20% non-recycled materials

• Weight: 1.19lbs

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 13”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Targus Work+ Expandable Daypack 32L

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

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

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

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

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

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

What we like

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

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

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

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

What we don’t like

• No secondary padded sleeve for tablet

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

SPECIFICATIONS

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

• Capacity: 32L (when expanded)

• Weight: 2.64lbs

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

• Tablet Sleeve: None

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Public Rec Pro Pack Plus

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

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

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

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

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

What we like

• Attractive minimalist design

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

• Great organization of daily work items

• Hidden pockets in the back for extra security

What we don’t like

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

SPECIFICATIONS

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

• Capacity: 26.5L

• Weight: 2.7lbs

• Materials: Water resistant poly-twill fabric

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

• Tablet/Document Sleeve: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

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

---

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

---

Nutsac Rucksac

The Nutsac Rucksac is an old-school inspired backpack that marries handmade quality with functional modern design. Each Rucksac is made in the USA using water resistant waxed canvas and full-grain leather that’s sourced from a small tannery in New England.

We found that at 20 liters the Rucksac makes a great daypack but might be a bit too small for multi-day travel. Yet those looking for a reliable EDC backpack will appreciate the padded 15-inch laptop sleeve and multiple internal pockets for easy organization of daily items.

A unique feature is the side zipper that gives you access to the main compartment. Note that this zipper doesn’t allow you to access to the laptop sleeve and you will still have to go through the main opening to access your laptop. This is our only small gripe with this backpack as quick access to your laptop or tablet would have been preferable.

Construction-wise this backpack is pretty heavy duty and its weight of 3.5 pounds plants it on the heavier side for a backpack of its size. But this is just something that comes with the territory of using robust materials. The leather detailing extends to the bottom making the Rucksac a great choice for anyone looking for a real leather bottom backpack and the waxed canvas is very heavy-weight to prevent tears and rips. The Nutsac Rucksac just feels like a quality backpack when handled and this is what really sets it apart from other mass produced bags.

We recommend the Nutsac Rucksac to anyone looking for an American made backpack that can take some abuse over time. The design is timeless, the construction quality is top-notch and you really can’t go wrong with Nutsac’s lifetime guarantee.

What we like

• Rugged construction made with full grain leather and waxed canvas - two materials that only look better with age

• Great variety of smaller pockets for organization

• Timeless rucksack design

• Nutsac offers a lifetime guarantee

What we don’t like

• Side zipper opening does not give you access to laptop sleeve - have to go through the main opening to access laptop.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19″ (H) x 13″ (W) x 5″ (D)

• Capacity: Approx. 20L

• Materials: Water resistant waxed canvas, full grain leather

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

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

---

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

---

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

---

Topo Designs Rover Pack

The Rover Pack is Topo’s premier daily carry rucksack. From its laptop sleeve and thoughtful pocket placement to its tough nylon construction - the Rover Pack is designed to be a companion for both daily commutes and outdoor exploring.

Topo Designs describes the Rover Pack as the “Goldilocks of rucksacks - not too big, not too small, not too fancy, not too simple.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

What we like

• Expandable rucksack design can hold more than it looks. Main compartment is deep and spacious.

• Stylish yet iconic vintage-inspired design. Available in over a dozen colors.

• Lightweight yet built tough with premium nylon materials.

What we don’t like

• No admin compartment with slip pockets for small items like pencils, charging cables, etc. Very small items float around in zip pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17” H x 11” W x 4.5” D

• Capacity: 20L

• Materials: 1000D Nylon, 420D Nylon Pack Cloth, 420D Recycled Nylon

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Lo & Sons The Hakuba

The Hakuba by Lo & Sons is a gym, travel and commuting backpack designed to be as versatile as you are. One special feature of the Hakuba is its removable insert that can be adjusted as needed to increase the space inside the main compartment. A mesh divider on the insert allows you to keep the bottom compartment divided for shoes and laundry or you can roll the divider up to take advantage of the full 35.5 liter main compartment.

When it comes to pockets, the Hakuba gives you plenty of organization throughout. Quick-access pockets on the top of the bag are real life savers when traveling and the zippered side pockets give you storage for water bottles on work out days and discreetly stay in place for a more streamlined look at the office.

What we like

• Clever removable insert allows you to adjust main compartment storage as needed

• Stylish minimalist design

• Bottom compartment is perfect for shoes or dirty laundry

• Discreet side water bottle pockets that stay out of the way when not in use

What we DON’T like

• Curved bottom won’t allow the Hakuba to stand straight up without toppling over when placed on the ground

• Steep price - the Lo & Sons Hakuba retails for $275

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21.5"H x 13"W x 7.75"D

• Capacity: 35.5L

• Material: 600D Recycled Poly, water resistant zippers, memory foam shoulder straps

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15” laptop

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

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

---

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

---

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

---

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

---

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

---

Stitch Traveler

Originally made for golf enthusiasts on the move, the Stitch Traveler is a versatile travel backpack that is more than meets the eye. The main compartment is large enough to store a change of clothes (or two if you pack light) for an easy transition from work to play without skipping a beat. And the rear compartment if filled with pockets for the daily grind such as a 15” padded laptop sleeve, document sleeve and smaller pockets for essentials.

One neat feature that Stitch offers is a customizable metal initials ingot that is attached to the front of the bag for a one of a kind bag that can be used for work, workouts, golf and weekend travel.

What we like

• Laptop and organizer compartment in the back is excellent. Plenty of pockets for daily essentials.

• 3-side zipper entry makes loading and unloading the backpack easy.

• Makes a great work-to-golf or work and gym backpack. Allows you to keep your daily items separate from a change of clothes.

What we don’t like

• Main compartment is just one open compartment with little organization. We wish there were more pockets on the inside of the main compartment to separate travel items (socks, toiletries, shoes, laundry)

• Missed opportunity to include a dirty laundry/shoe compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 12 W" x 8.25" D

• Materials:  Water and stain resistant ballistic nylon and YKK zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

• 2-in-1 backpack to duffle design

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

---

Reebok Active Enhanced Backpack

The Reebok Active Enhanced Backpack is a versatile gym bag that can also be used for school, travel or work thanks to its laptop compartment and front pocket for daily essentials. One of our favorite features is the bottom compartment that can store a pair of shoes or laundry. This neat feature keeps all of your clean and dirty items separate for peace of mind on long days.

What we like

• Ventilated bottom shoe/laundry compartment in the bottom keeps dirty items separate.

• Simple design doesn’t scream “gym bag” Versatile enough to be used as a daily carry backpack for work or school.

• Can’t beat the price: $50 MSRP

What we don’t like

• Although the quality is good for the price - it does feel like a polyester backpack. If you are looking for a premium gym backpack, look somewhere else.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12.5 W" x 8.5" D

• Volume: 29L

• Materials:  100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: 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

---