We Tested the Best Backpacks for Gym and Work in 2024
We can do better than a sporty gym bag with a laptop compartment, right? In this buying guide we test the best (and most stylish) gym and work backpacks available right now.
Finding the perfect gym and work backpack can feel a lot like looking for a needle in a haystack. You’ll need a functional bag for your daily essentials, like a laptop and business items, while still having enough room for bulky workout gear like a change of clothes and shoes.
Although you could just use a regular gym bag with a laptop compartment, most can look too sporty and out of place for an office. Needless to say, the perfect bag that transitions smoothly from work to the gym is a tall order. The truth is that many backpack brands struggle to provide that perfect blend of work-appropriate style and gym-friendly functionality.
That's why we tested and researched dozens of bags and put together a list of the best backpacks for both work and workouts available right now.
How We Chose These Backpacks
Shown above left to right:
Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack - water-resistant gym and work backpack
Troubadour Pioneer - office backpack with shoe compartment
tomtoc TechPack-T73 - laptop backpack with roomy main compartment
King Kong EDGE - tough gym bag with laptop compartment and separate organization
Stylish Enough For Work
Although gym bags are great for an active lifestyle, they might not be the best choice when you have to look your best at work. We focused on backpacks that not only have ample space for all your gear, but look good too. Although many gym bags have a laptop compartment, few would ever look good in a professional setting. Loud colors, sporty designs and duffel bags is usually what's readily available. But who wants to carry a bulky duffel bag to work? We tried to look for backpacks that struck a nice balance between style and function.
Shown Above: Able Carry Max Backpack with gym and work compartments
Dedicated Compartments
Let's face it, no one wants to store their sweaty clothes next to their laptop. This is why we focused on backpacks that feature separate compartments for work and gym essentials. Many of the backpacks we tested include a separate shoe compartment that can also be used for storing dirty gym clothes. Bonus points were given to bags with dedicated packing compartments and interior mesh pockets for your smaller gym accessories. We also focused on backpacks with access to a padded laptop compartment and external pockets that are separate than the main compartment. This allows you to keep everything organized in its own place.
Shown Above: Knack Pack Series 2 expandable backpack
Quality and Comfort
We carefully tested and handpicked backpacks that are great quality and left out the bags that didn't make the cut. Elements like water-resistant fabrics, YKK zippers and a shoe compartment or a wet pocket were considered when testing.
Any backpack you will be lugging around all day has to be comfortable. We are talking about breathable mesh back panels, adjustable shoulder straps, and a sternum strap for great weight distribution. All of these features add up to a comfortable pack. Whether you drive to work or use public transportation, we made sure these backpacks are built for the journey.
Best Backpacks for Gym and Work
Troubadour Pioneer Backpack
The Troubadour Pioneer is a sophisticated backpack that looks like anything but your average gym bag. But it's hidden shoe compartment opens up a whole new world of possibilities. At it's heart, the Pioneer is an urban backpack with a soft-lined 16" laptop pocket and interior pockets for organizing daily items. The separate compartment on the bottom is just there when you need it on gym days. Not only is it ventilated but it's lined with an anti-microbial fabric to minimize smells from shoes and sweaty clothes.
If you usually pack more than what the 23.5 liter Pioneer can offer than we recommend you check out the 34 liter Troubadour Aero Backpack which has a lot of the same great features.
For an in-depth look at the Pioneer, check out our Troubadour Pioneer backpack review.
Key Features:
Capacity: 23.5L
Favorite feature: Ventilated bottom shoe compartment
16" laptop sleeve
Lots of interior pockets for organization
Water bottle side pockets
ABle Carry Max
Able Carry offers some amazing laptop backpacks, but their large 30-liter Max backpack is the model we recommend to those looking for a high quality work and gym bag. The Max offers tons of great features but our favorites have to be the hidden water bottle side pocket and lockable zippers.
What makes the Able Carry Max special is its compartments. The large main compartment gives you ample space for bulkier gym kits. Think of stuff like a change of clothes, shoes or even boxing gloves. But for long days at the office there is a separate compartment for work essentials. The rear compartment offers a 17" laptop sleeve and tons of pockets for your smaller items. There are even a couple of hidden pockets to keep valuables safe during workouts.
Key Features:
Capacity: 30L
Favorite feature: hidden water bottle pocket for a sleeker look at work
Dedicated “work” compartment with padded laptop sleeve and admin pockets
Main “packing” compartment for gym items
High quality construction: waterproof X-Pac, cordura nylon fabric, YKK zippers
Modern Dayfarer Dayfarer V2
Designed to seamlessly go from work to gym, the Dayfarer V2 by Modern Dayfarer proves that you can have a functional bag that does it all. What we love about this backpack is that you can enter the main compartment in two ways: through the top lid for quick access or unzip the side zippers for full clamshell access.
Although the main compartment opens nice and wide to give you easy access to your workout gear, it's the exterior pockets that give the Dayfarer V2 edge. Along the outside of the bag there are pockets for everything from a water bottle, keys, phone and wallet. The bottom of the pack even features a ventilated shoe compartment that can double as separate compartment for sweaty clothes and towels. And an external laptop compartment is protected with water resistant zippers for peace of mind on rainy days.
Key Features:
Capacity: 24L
Favorite feature: Breathable padded mesh back panel and shoulder straps
Ventilated bottom shoe compartment
16" laptop compartment
Amazing quality: Water-repellent fabric, magnetic buckles, YKK Aquaguard zippers
Knack Pack Series 2 Expandable Backpack
The Knack Pack Series 2 is both a sleek bag for professional days and a large backpack for workout days. Don't be fooled by its minimalist design, the inside is packed with separate compartments for work, gym and travel. The internal pockets on this pack are incredible! You have a massive outer compartment with lots of pockets for easy access to small items. While the roomy main compartment neatly stores bulkier work items like a lunch box or jacket.
This expandable backpack has a hidden packing compartment that can be used for shorter trips or gym gear. The inside lining is made with an anti-microbial fabric to prevent the inside fresh from wet clothes and stinky shoes. If that wasn't enough, the Knack Pack Series 2 allows you to carry it in different ways. Tuck in the shoulder straps and you have a sleek briefcase on days you need to look more professional.
Need help deciding between Knack Packs? Check out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison. Spoiler: they both make great gym and work backpacks.
Key Features:
Capacity: Available in Small (27L), Medium (35L) and Large (46L)
Favorite feature: Hidden expandable packing compartment for gym/travel
Made with water-resistant nylon
Hidden side water bottle pocket
Convertible: Backpack to briefcase
Stubble & Co The Kit Bag
The Stubble & Co Kit Bag is our top pick for those looking for a large gym bag that seamlessly transitions from work to workout. With a roomy 42-liter packing capacity, this bag ensures you have ample space for all your gym essentials and more. We like that it can double as bag for after-work pickup games or as a travel bag for the occasional weekend getaway.
But what truly sets the Kit Bag apart is its adaptability. With interchangeable straps, you can quickly switch between a backpack or gym duffel bag for the best look in any situation. The water-resistant minimalist design is also as sleek as it is functional. Most of the pockets are either hidden or internal. As a result you get a clean look on the outside while still having those essential pockets, like a dedicated compartment for a laptop and an internal water bottle pocket. In additional, a bottom compartment for shoes or wet clothes makes easy work of keeping soiled items separated. Whether it’s a gym day or travel day, the Stubble & Co Kit Bag was truly designed to compliment active lifestyles.
Key Features:
Capacity: 42L
Convertible: Backpack to duffel bag
Dedicated shoe pocket
16" laptop compartment
Db Hugger Backpack
Designed for hauling bulky gear, the Db Hugger offers a versatile way to carry your gym and work items in one complete package. This clamshell backpack allows for easy packing of your gym items. The outside of the pack gives you access to a padded laptop compartment and exterior pocket on the top for quick access to essentials like keys, wallet, phone and pens.
We love the Db Hugger as a gym bag with a laptop compartment that is sleek enough to take to work. It's missing side water bottle pockets and a million external pockets but it makes up for it in interior pockets. The main compartment is lined with interior mesh pockets and the large main compartment is perfect for bulky workout gear. Don't be fooled by the minimalist exterior, there are plenty of spots to organize small items.
Key Features:
Roomy 30L main compartment for the gym or travel
Favorite feature: Db’s protective rib cage construction allow for more internal packing room without the bulk
Padded 16” laptop compartment with side-access
Clamshell main compartment for easy-packing
King Kong EDGE Backpack
The King Kong EDGE35 is for those who wish their gym bag offered more. If only my gym bag had a laptop sleeve! If only my gym bag had more pockets for my work items! If only you had the EDGE35.
Along with a laptop compartment and a front compartment with smaller pockets for daily essentials, the EDGE35 also includes a massive 35-liter main compartment that opens like a suitcase. This main compartment is great for larger gym items like boxing gloves or weight training gear. Oh, and there is also a dedicated shoe pocket on the bottom. King Kong has thought of everything!
The King Kong EDGE35 also feels as good as it looks. The bag is made out of tough water-resistant fabric and the inside is lined with durable ripstop nylon to minimize rips and tears over time. Add in YKK zippers and tough adjustable straps and you have one tough laptop gym backpack that will survive even the busiest of lifestyles. For a closer look at the details, check out our King Kong EDGE35 review.
Key Features:
Capacity: 35L
Favorite feature: bottom laundry and shoe compartment
Padded 17” laptop compartment
Laptop, admin and gym compartments to keep work and gym items separate
Main packing compartment opens like a suitcase
tomtoc TechPack-T73 X-Pac Laptop Backpack
Sleek enough to be a work bag yet tough enough for workouts, the tomtoc TechPack-T73 has everything you could need in a gym and work backpack. The large main compartment is great for storing gym clothes and shoes while seperate tech compartment gives you a padded sleeve for both a laptop and tablet.
What the TechPack-T73 does best is organization and comfort. The external pockets give you easy access for both gym and work essentials. The padded shoulder straps and cushioned back panel are this pack are also the real deal. They feel great even when the pack gets packed full.
Key Features:
Capacity: 30L
Favorite feature: Lots of great zip pockets for organization
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves in a separate compartment
Roomy main compartment that's great for bulky gym gear
High quality construction: waterproof X-Pac, YKK zippers, super comfortable shoulder straps
Pacsafe EXP35 Anti-Theft Backpack
The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 blends the best of a daily work bag and gym duffle bag into one neat design. With 35 liters of packing room, it's large enough to handle even the busiest of schedules. You have an exterior laptop pocket for easy access to your tech, a seperate shoe compartment on the bottom and plenty of exterior pockets and heavy-duty shoulder straps and sternum strap come in the clutch when the bag starts to get heavy. The side compression straps are also great for hauling bulky items like a yoga mat or foam roller.
However, what makes the EXP35 special is it's anti-theft features. Each compartment feautures self-locking zippers to protect your belongings wherever you may roam. One of the shoulder straps also includes a special secure lock so that you can lock the bag against benches and table legs to prevent bag theft. Check out our Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 review if you want a closer look at the details.
Key Features:
Capacity: 35L
Favorite feature: self-locking anti-theft zippers
16" Padded laptop compartment
Bottom shoe compartment
Great for work, gym and travel
Black Ember Forge
The Black Ember Forge is one of the best gym bags for work on the market today thanks to Black Ember’s dedication to quality and functional design that is essential to the brand’s vision. Although originally designed for travel, the Forge hits it out of the park with separate compartments - a crucial feature for a backpack you need for both work and workouts.
This backpack has compartments for your laptop, tech essentials and other work items while the main compartment expands from 20L to 30L for easy accommodation of gym or travel items. This allows you to keep your work and gym gear in separate areas while always having your most important essentials within reach.
Key Features:
Capacity: 20-30L Expandable
Favorite feature: Can be carried as a backpack, duffel or briefcase
Opens like a suitcase for easy packing of shoes and clothes
Great organization for tech and work items
What to Look for in a Work and Gym Backpack
-
Choosing the perfect backpack size for both work and gym activities is all about matching your needs. It depends on what you usually carry to work and the kind of workouts you do. For instance, if your morning routine involves cardio exercises before heading to the office, a backpack in the range of 20-30 liters could work just fine. It'll fit your essential work items along with a change of clothes, like shoes, a sports bra and a pair of leggings, making it easy to transition from exercise to office.
On the other hand, if your gym routine includes a mix of weightlifting, cardio, and even maybe a CrossFit session, you might need more space for all your gym gear. A backpack that's 30 liters or more could be a better fit for you. This size would comfortably accommodate your bulky equipment, like lifting shoes, a towel, water bottle, and other items you need for an active lifestyle. Also, keep in mind your commute – if you take public transportation, a larger backpack could be more manageable than carrying an extra cross fit pack or gym kit separately. So, choose the backpack size that matches your daily routine and helps you smoothly transition from work to your workout and back.
-
Having the right storage compartments in a backpack that serves both your work and gym needs is essential. A well-designed backpack should not only keep your daily essentials like a laptop, wallet, phone, and lunch neatly organized, but it should also cater to your workout requirements. We recommend going with a backpack with dedicated compartments, like a separate shoe compartment that prevents your sneakers from mingling with your work documents. External straps are also helpful for carrying bulky items like a yoga mat or foam roller.
For work, there are certain must-haves like a padded laptop sleeve and internal pockets for organization of daily items like pens, small notebooks and tech accessories. External pockets are equally as important for easy access to essentials like a set of keys, wallet and phone. We kept all of this in mind when compiling this buying guide and tried to only recommend bags with the right mix of pockets and compartments for a dynamic lifestyle.
-
Finding the right style in a backpack that's meant for both work and gym workouts can be a lot like walking a tight rope. We have said it before but the best gym bag doesn't always translate to the best office backpack. Especially if your workplace leans towards a more professional setting, having a backpack that looks work-appropriate is crucial. A backpack with a minimalist design and clean lines can seamlessly transition from office meetings to gym sessions. Moreover, pay attention to quality, especially for a bag intended for workouts. Materials like water-resistant fabric, or even a waterproof backpack, can give you a nice mix of durability and style.
Beyond style, backpack fit and comfort are even more important. A comfortable backpack that suits your physique can drastically enhance your daily experience. Adjustable straps, cushioned back panels, and a sternum strap (for bigger bags) are all pivotal in ensuring the backpack conforms to your body. The right size and fit distribute weight evenly, preventing discomfort and strain on your shoulders and back. Whether navigating office hallways or hitting the gym floor, a well-fitting backpack not only enhances your comfort but also empowers you to tackle your day with confidence and ease.
More Helpful Resources
Must-Have Gym Bag Items (verywellfit.com)
Best Backpacks with Shoe Compartments - tested and reviewed
Best Expandable Backpacks - for travel, work and gym
Best Clamshell Backpacks - tested and reviewed
12 Best Roll Top Waterproof Backpacks - Tested & Reviewed
We tested the best waterproof roll top backpacks for everything from urban commuting to outdoor adventures.
The inspiration to find the best roll-top waterproof backpack started with one rainy morning during a trip to another city. I was in a coffee shop, enjoying a hot coffee and answering emails on my laptop. In less than an hour, the weather conditions shifted dramatically, turning a light drizzle into a heavy downpour. My hotel was just two blocks away but the storm shook my faith in the short walk. I carefully packed my laptop into my small backpack and braced for the wet journey. With each raindrop hitting the backpack's zipper, I wished I had traveled with a waterproof backpack instead.
Thankfully the laptop was fine. But it was a close call.
This soggy experience led us to searching for the best waterproof backpacks. But what kind of design could be used as an urban backpack during a rainy commute? Or what about as a dry bag for off-the-beaten-path travel adventures? The answer, we found, was a roll top backpack.
In the world of backpacks, the roll-top design is unique. Unlike backpack zippers, where water can leak through the zipper teeth, roll top backpacks offer superior waterproof protection by design. The nature of a roll-top closure allows the top opening to roll into itself and create a natural waterproof seal. As long as the fabric itself is waterproof, your stuff will stay dry and protected when the bag is properly rolled together.
In this buying guide, we tested numerous waterproof roll top backpacks to find the best ones based on quality, features and comfort. Turns out there are a lot of great brands and designs to choose from. However, through testing and research, we have narrowed down the options. Whether you're looking for a waterproof commuter backpack or seeking a dry bag to keep your gear safe during your next Kayaking trip, this curated list will guide you to the right waterproof roll-top backpack for your needs.
Our Favorite Waterproof Roll Top Backpacks
Shown Above:
Chrome Urban Ex 30L - Tough urban commuter backpack with padded laptop sleeve
Got Bag Rolltop Backpack - Versatile waterproof roll top that can switch from laptop backpack to outdoor pack
Rains Rolltop Backpack - Sleek roll top backpack for work and school
Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City - Lightweight waterproof commuter backpack with removable laptop sleeve.
How We Tested These Backpacks
Our testing include outdoor testing in the rain (with the occasional help of a garden hose) as well as indoor testing inside our studio. There were specific features we looked for as described below.
Shown Above: A few of the roll top backpacks we tested outdoors
Waterproof Roll-Top Design
Along with a rolltop closure, we searched for backpacks that had a high quality construction and great attention to detail. This included features like taped or welded seams, waterproof fabrics, and water resistant zippers. Value for the price was also important, so we included budget options in our search.
For outdoor activities, we looked for submersible backpacks with a roll-top design, also known as dry bags. These packs are made with waterproof materials and come with sealed seams. Tarpaulin and PVC are examples of heavy-duty waterproof materials that are commonly used in roll top dry bags, making them ideal for activities like kayaking, fishing and boating.
While a waterproof dry bag made of tarpaulin or PVC are great for outdoor use, it's usually overkill for daily use. That led us to explore coated fabrics. Many roll-top bags we came across were made from familiar materials like nylon or polyester but had an added waterproof coating or included a waterproof backing. Although you can't submerge these backpacks in water, a backpack with a rolltop closure crafted from coated fabric is more than enough protection during heavy rain (unless you live in the lost underwater city of Atlantis.)
Shown Above: The external laptop compartment on the Rains Rolltop Backpack
Great Pockets and Compartments
It's easy to find dozens of waterproof roll top backpacks that are nothing but a big empty main compartment. These are great for some people, but for most the best waterproof backpacks are versatile. And a versatile backpack has great pockets and compartments.
We looked for roll top backpacks that give you easy access to essentials through external pockets. A water bottle pocket or a small pocket for a wallet or phone can make or break a daily commuter backpack. But the best waterproof backpacks also give you internal organization like a laptop pocket or a zippered pocket for small items. Outdoor backpacks fare well with lash points for external attachments. These are the kind of features we paid attention to when compiling our list.
Shown Above: Testing the shoulder harness on the Chrome Bravo 4.0 roll top backpack
Must-Have Comfort Features
The experience of being caught in a downpour, with valuable items like a laptop at risk, stresses the importance of a waterproof backpack. But protection from a rain storm is just one aspect of a great pack. What about comfort? If you plan on lugging around a backpack all day, it's just as important that the pack is as comfortable as possible.
With this in mind, we searched for waterproof backpacks that include comfort features such as padded shoulder straps and breathable back panels. For longer journeys and heavier loads, features like an adjustable chest strap and waist strap are important to help distribute weight and pressure from the shoulders.
Full List: Best Roll Top Waterproof Backpacks
Best waterproof Commuter Backpack: Chrome Urban Ex
Chrome Industries is known for their high quality cycling backpacks, and the Urban Ex sets a new standard for urban carry. When we say this roll top backpack is heavy duty, we don't say that lightly. The Chrome Urban Ex is built like an absolute tank. You have a thick waterproof shell that's protected with welded seams, ensuring a dry interior in all weather conditions. And the tough shoulder straps and sternum strap are ready for heavy cargo. At the end of the day, this is one of those backpacks that you can toss around, scuff up and not feel bad about it.
At it's core, the Chrome Urban Ex was built as an urban backpack for commuters. Inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve and an organizer panel for daily essentials. The roll-top design offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust your storage space as needed. While a large open main compartment makes packing bulky items a breeze. Whether you need a tough cycling pack or a waterproof backpack for college, the Urban Ex is just one of those backpacks that can do it all.
The Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 is available in 20L and 30L sizes for the perfect fit.
Key Features:
Capacity: available in 20L or 30L
15-inch Padded laptop sleeve
Waterproof construction: TPU backed outer shell with welded seams
Exterior attachment points for bike U-lock and other accessories
Best Waterproof Backpack for Work: Rains Rolltop Rucksack
Made from Rain’s signature waterproof fabric, the Rolltop Rucksack is a highly water-resistant backpack that offers a minimalist twist on the classic cycling backpack. When we got our hands on one, the first thing we noticed was how nice the bag felt. The PU waterproof fabric has a very elegant matte finish and the heavy-duty metal roll top buckle really added to the quality. Despite the waterproof fabric and metal accents, the Rolltop Rucksack is surprisingly lightweight. In fact, it's easily one of the lightest waterproof roll top backpack we have tested.
The Rains Rolltop Rucksack features a side-access laptop sleeve that is protected by a water-resistant zipper. You also have an extra zippered pocket on the front for easy access to small items while the main compartment is reserved for bulkier items. One thing to note is that this backpack is slim and as a result only gives you 13 liters of packing room. It's an excellent choice for work commuters who want a sleek backpack for the office but the lack of internal organization and limited storage space isn't for everyone.
For comfort, Rains incorporates a mesh padded back panel, padded straps and a sternum strap. What's great about the shoulder straps on this pack is that each one is wrapped in waterproof fabric to prevent soggy straps if ever caught in a downpour. With its blend of style and functionality, the Rains Rolltop Rucksack is really in a class of its own.
Key Features:
Capacity: 13L
16-inch laptop sleeve with side zipper access
Made with waterproof fabric with water resistant zippers
Available in multiple colors
Most Versatile Waterproof Roll Top Backpack: Got Bag Rolltop
The Got Bag Rolltop stands out as one of the most versatile roll-top waterproof backpacks we have tested. While many waterproof backpacks are tailored specifically for either urban commuting or outdoor adventures, the Got Bag Rolltop seamlessly bridges the gap between work days and weekends. It's secret weapon is its removable 15-inch laptop sleeve inside the main compartment. This smart feature allows you to quickly transition from daily laptop backpack to outdoor bag in seconds. Beyond its functional design, the Got Bag Rolltop is made with an eco-friendly construction, crafted from recycled plastic bottles that would have otherwise ended up as ocean waste.
But the Got Bag Rolltop doesn't stop at being just a do-it-all backpack; it's also designed with durability and user comfort in mind. The waterproof TPU lining makes the inside easy to keep clean from dirt, sand and moisture. Couple this with a wide-open main compartment and you have the perfect camping or beach backpack. When it comes to comfort, the Got Bag Rolltop gives you a breathable padded back panel, padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap for better weight distribution under heavy loads.
The Got Bag Rolltop has a generous 31 litre capacity but is also available in a more compact 26 litre capacity version with the Got Bag Rolltop Lite.
Key Features:
Capacity: Available in 31L and 26L sizes
Removable 15-inch laptop sleeve panel for easy switching between daily and outdoor carry
Extra water-resistant front pocket and interior zip pocket
Waterproof construction with TPU lined interior and taped seams
Best Roll Top Waterproof Backpack for Travel: Roark Accomplice Missing Link 42L Bag
With a spacious capacity of 42-liters, the Roark Accomplice Missing Link stands out as one of the best roll top waterproof backpacks for travel. The large main compartment gives you ample space for longer trips and makes it easy to pair with packing cubes. You also have a front water resistant pocket and stretchy mesh side pockets allow for quick access to essentials. Each Accomplice Missing Link is built with waterproof materials and topped off with welded seams for protection in all weather conditions. Take this pack on your next fishing trip, visit your favorite waterfall or use it as a carry on bag with the peace of mind that your gear will stay protected.
The Accomplice Missing Link is packed with extra features to customize how you carry. Attachment points on the front of the backpack allow you to attach Roark Accomplice Mod Bags to expand your storage. The ability to add more packing capacity to the bag is a huge feature for travelers or those who just need a versatile modular backpack solution. There are also attachment loops on each side of the backpack so that you can attach additional accessories as needed. Combining its compressible and expandable roll-top design with the potential for external storage, this backpack makes a mark as one of the best roll top backpacks both short trips and extended journeys.
Key Features:
Capacity: 42L
Expandable storage: Attachment points for Roark Mod Bags
Breathable mesh back panel and padded shoulder straps with chest strap for comfort
Waterproof fabric with welded seams
Best Rolltop Laptop Backpack: WANDRD PRVKE
The WANDRD PRVKE is a highly water-resistant backpack that is all about adaptability. Unlike other backpacks on this list, the PRVKE has a dual-access design. Pack the inside using the roll-top closure or use the rear zipper for quick access and a birds-eye view of your packing. The inside of this pack is also modular, allowing you to divide the inside to different sections or convert the PRVKE into a camera bag by adding a WANDRD Camera Cube. As a laptop backpack, the floating padded laptop and tablet sleeves that do a great job at keeping your expensive tech safe. With so many carry options, the WANDRD PRVKE stands out as the most versatile backpack we have tested.
Although not fully waterproof, the WANDRD PRVKE is a seriously water-resistant backpack thanks to it's waterproof tarpaulin construction. Every exterior pocket is also protected with water-resistant zippers and the tough ballistic nylon roll-top closure also provides great protection from the elements. With this in mind, we highly recommend the PRVKE as a daily laptop backpack, travel backpack or photography bag. For a more detailed look, check out our WANDRD PRVKE review.
Key Features:
Capacity: available in 21, 31 or 42L
Padded laptop sleeve + tablet sleeve
Great organization: Lots of interior and exterior pockets
Comfortable shoulder straps and back panel with an adjustable chest strap for extra support
Best Roll Top Dry Bag For Outdoor Activities: Filson Dry Backpack
Built to industrial standards out of high performance waterproof materials, the Filson Dry Backpack was designed to protect your gear in during wet adventures. This submersible backpack gives you 28 liters of internal carrying capacity plus interior plus D-rings on the shoulder straps for secure attachment of accessories. We love recommending this pack to anyone who needs a reliable dry bag for outdoor activities near water like fishing, white water rafting or canoeing.
What sets the Filson Dry Backpack apart from other dry bags is its attention to detail. Each Dry Backpack is made with completly waterproof materials and is protected with radio-frequency welded seams - ensuring no water damage to precious cargo when the top closure is secured. As for comfort, the back panel is made with EVA foam that molds to your back while staying breathable. The shoulder straps are also generously padded and are supported with an adjustable sternum strap to help with heavy loads. Each pack is backed by Filson's limited lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Key Features:
Capacity: 28L
Interior and exterior zippered pockets for small items
Waterproof construction: Tarpaulin fabric coated with TPU, RF-welded seams
Lifetime Warranty
Best Roll Top Dry Backpack Under $100: Skog A Kust Backsak
Who says you need to spend an arm and a leg for a quality waterproof backpack? Skog A Kust BackSak offers an affordable roll top waterproof backpack with a watertight welded construction for under $100. The BackSak really stood out while testing for its many pockets that make it easy to stay organized, even in the great outdoors. There is a water-resistant front pocket for quick access to small essentials. But the inside is lined with even more pockets for those smaller items you can't risk getting wet: phone, wallet and maps. We were also impressed with the heavy-duty PVC construction. This material is completely waterproof and tough enough to handle outdoor conditions. Whether we were caught in a heavy rain, or just want to keep our gear dry during an afternoon on the lake, the Skog A Kust Backsak kept everything dry as a bone.
One thing to note is that it does take some practice to get the roll-top closure positioned correctly so that it becomes airtight. But once you do, the Skog A Kust Backsak has the ability to float on water. At this price-point, we have come across few backpacks that are this dependable, rugged and comfortable all in one package.
Capacity: Available in 25L and 35L sizes
Lots of internal and external pockets for organization
Waterproof construction: PVC and welded seams. IPX-6 rating.
Best Roll Top Backpack for Cycling: Chrome Bravo 4.0
Chrome has knocked the ball out of the park with their latest Bravo backpack update. Along with a roomy roll-top main compartment, there is also an extra front "tech organization" compartment for daily essentials. This easy access compartment allows you to pack a laptop, your work or school supplies, plus all those smaller items that usually get lost at the bottom of the bag. Extra storage can be found with daisy chains on the shoulder straps and the adjustable cargo straps on the front of the bag. There really isn't much that the Chrome Bravo 4.0 can't carry!
Despite missing welded seams, the Bravo 4.0 is still a highly water-resistant backpack thanks to its waterproof fabric and thoughtful roll top and flap design that keeps water out of major compartments. Those looking for a roll top backpack for cycling will appreciate the nubbed back panel that provides great airflow while still molding to the curves of your back for a comfortable ride. Pair this back panel with tough padded straps and adjustable chest strap for secure rides no matter how much you carry.
Key Features:
Capacity: 24-35L (expandable)
Large "tech organization" compartment with 17-inch laptop pocket
Built with cycling commutes in mind: chest strap, breathable back panel, tough shoulder straps
Water-resistant design with roll-top closure and tucked away zippers
Best Roll Top Waterproof Daypack: Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City
The Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City is a unique daypack that's worth a closer look. This backpack is by far the most light weight waterproof backpack for commuting we have tested, weighing only 26.5 ounces when empty. The bag itself is made with PS33, a waterproof PU-coated fabric, that holds up well with daily use. Unlike other heavy waterproof materials like PVC and Tarpaulin, PS33 feels more like a fabric, while still keeping its waterproof properties.
The shoulder straps and back panel are also designed to keep dry thanks to being made of quick-drying materials. This is one of those details that a lot of other waterproof commuter backpacks miss. Trust us, there is nothing worse that soggy straps and a soggy back after commuting on a rainy day. Each Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City includes a removable chest strap and waist strap for extra comfort.
Other great commuter-friendly features include exterior attachment points for a light or U-lock, reflective points for safety, and a removable padded laptop compartment for easy switching between business days and errands on the weekends.
Key Features:
Capacity: 21L
Removable padded laptop sleeve
Waterproof construction: PU laminated nylon with taped seams. IP64 rating.
Lightweight construction with quick-drying shoulder straps and back panel
Best WatErProof Backpack for Large Hauls Outdoors: PATAGONIA DISPERSER ROLL TOP PACK
With a large 40-liter capacity, the Patagonia Disperser is our favorite waterproof backpack for days outdoors on the water. Fishing, canoeing, rafting, you name it! This pack is all about customization with attachements. The shoulder straps are compatible with Patagonia’s Convertible Fly Fishing Vest so that you can easily expand your storage. The included side attachment loops also allow you left or right handed access to poles and other long items while the front attachment points give you more access to gear.
Each Patagonia Disperser is described as "extremely water-resistant" which just means that it's not submiersible like a dry backpack. But we found it more than capable for days outdoors on the water thanks to its watertight roll-top closure and waterproof materials. Another great feature is the ability to compress the roll top closure down on light days and expand it to it's full 40-liter capacity on days you need more room. This allows you to have just one backpack to use as a small daypack or large backpack as needed.
Key Features:
Capacity: 40L
Quick-dry shoulder straps and back panel do not absorb or retain water
Removable internal pocket for smaller items
Fair Trade Certified and made with recycled materials
Best for Large Hauls on a Budget: EARTH PAK SUMMIT WATERPROOF ROLL TOP BACKPACK
It’s no secret that a quality waterproof backpack can be pricey, yet Earth Pak offers a great dry bag option under $100 that gives you the protection you need for outdoor exploration, traveling and commuting. These dry bags come in three different sizes, including a massive 85 liter option for large hauls, making them a great option for everything from camping trips to travel.
The Earth Pak Summit is made with 500D PVC material for maximum waterproof protection and an ergonomic shoulder straps and a heavy-duty waist strap for comfortable hauls. Other great features include a waterproof exterior pocket and MOLLE webbing for attaching additional carry.
Key Features:
Capacity: Available in 35L, 55L and 85L
Waterproof construction: PVC construction with sealed seams
5-year warranty
Internal pockets for keys, phone and other small items
Best Waterproof Backpack for Hiking: Osprey Transporter Waterproof
The Osprey Transporter Waterproof series allows you to seamlessly transition from hiking your favorite trail to activities in the water. This is thanks to its IPX6 waterproof construction and secure roll top buckle closure that keeps moisture away from your important gear. The Transporter Waterproof comes in three sizes for the perfect fit: 18L, 25L and 30L
What sets these Osprey backpacks apart is the focus on comfort, especially for hiking. Each pack is equipped with a super breathable mesh shoulder straps and back panel to keep you cool during warm days. The adjustable sternum and waist strap also provide additional support. Osprey is a brand that specializes in hiking and backpacking backpacks so to see this attention to comfort on a roll top waterproof backpack is no surprise.
Key Features:
Capacity: Available in 18L, 25L and 35L sizes
Waterproof construction: TPU double coated nylon with taped seams. IPX6 Rating.
Breathable spacermesh back panel and shoulder straps
Roll Top Waterproof Backpack FAQs
1. What materials are commonly used in waterproof roll top backpacks?
Most waterproof roll top backpacks use either PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) or coated fabrics. PVC is a thermoplastic polymer that is completely waterproof, making it ideal for activities like kayaking, fishing, and boating. On the other hand, coated fabrics, such as nylon or polyester coated with PU (polyurethane) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), retain flexibility and durability while offering waterproof properties. These are recommended for daily commuting, work, school, or travel.
2. How can I ensure a backpack is truly waterproof?
To make sure a backpack is truly waterproof and not just water resistant, pay attention to its construction, especially the seams. While many highly water resistant backpacks are made with waterproof materials, it’s the seams that allow them to be fully waterproof. While taped seams, commonly found in high-performance waterproof clothing, offer basic waterproofing, welded seams provide superior protection. Welded seams fuse two pieces of material together using heat, creating a 100% waterproof seal without any holes for water to penetrate.
3. Why are roll top backpacks preferred over zippered ones for waterproofing?
Roll top backpacks offer superior waterproof protection by design. The top opening rolls into itself, creating a natural waterproof seal. As long as the fabric is waterproof, the contents remain dry when the bag is properly rolled together. In contrast, zippers, even water-resistant ones, can fail over time, potentially allowing water to seep in. For a foolproof waterproof solution, a roll top is recommended.
4. What features should I look for in a waterproof roll top backpack for outdoor activities?
For outdoor activities like camping, kayaking, and boating, look for a waterproof roll top backpack with welded seams or a unibody design. These backpacks, often called dry bags, have a submersible construction that comes in handy with activities near water. Other useful features include exterior hooks and loops for attaching the bag to boats or bikes and high visibility colors for easy spotting.
5. How do I choose a waterproof roll top backpack for commuting or urban carry?
Let's be honest, you probably don't need a submersible backpack for urban commuting, work, school, or daily carry. The main concern with a daily backpack is unpredictable weather conditions, like heavy rain. A roll top backpack with a water-resistant construction will usually do the trick.
With roll top backpacks for commuting or urban carry expect reflective panels for added nighttime visibility, easy access pockets and making sure the bag has ample space for daily essentials. Features to look out for include a laptop compartment, side pocket for a water bottle, and small pockets for organization of stuff like a phone, wallet and tech accessories.
More Helpful Resources
Roll top backpack vs Zipper Backpack - Pros and Cons of each type of backpack design
Backpack Size Guide - Helpful guide to help you figure out what fits in different backpack sizes
Best Waterproof Backpacks for Women - Waterproof and water-resistant backpacks with a consideration for shorter torsos and smaller shoulders
Best Waterpoof Backpacks for College - Buying Guide showcasing some great waterproof options for school
IPX Rating System Guide (Gear Mashers) - Explains the IPX Rating System used to evaluate how waterproof or water resistant a product is.
Under Armour Hustle 5.0 vs Hustle Pro - Hands-On Comparison
Is the Under Armour Hustle Pro worth the upgrade? In this hands-on backpack comparison we take a look at the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 and Hustle Pro backpacks side by side.
In this backpack comparison we are getting hands-on with the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 and the Under Armour Hustle Pro backpack to find out what the real differences are. We'll break down how they fit, the various pockets they offer, and what you can fit inside each.
Under Armour has always been known as a brand that caters to athletes and we believe both packs do a great job at offering similar features. Both the Hustle 5.0 and Hustle Pro backpacks are made with a water-resistant construction to protect from rain and snow thanks to UA Storm Technology. You can also find a dedicated shoe compartment and a large main compartment for packing books or daily essentials. Whether you are student athlete or just looking a reliable everyday pack, you really can't go wrong with either.
Now, the big question: Is upgrading to the UA Hustle Pro worth it? Let's find out.
Video Review
Quick Specs
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 29L | 31.5L |
| Materials | Polyester with UA Storm water-resistant finish | Polyester with UA Storm water-resistant finish |
| Dimensions | 20.1” (H) x 12.6” (W) x 6.3” (D) | 20.1” (H) x 12.6” (W) x 8.9” (D) |
| Laptop Sleeve | Up to 15" | Up to 15" |
| Insulated Water Bottle Pocket | No | Yes |
| Sternum Strap | No | Yes |
| Waist Belt | No | No |
| Price |
Size and Fit: UA Hustle 5.0 vs Hustle Pro
Despite the UA Hustle Pro having a larger capacity, there isn't a huge size difference between these backpacks.
Exterior Dimensions:
Under Armour Hustle 5.0: 20.1” (H) x 12.6” (W) x 6.3” (D)
Under Armour Hustle Pro: 20.1” (H) x 12.6” (W) x 8.9” (D)
Where you'll see a difference is in the depth of each backpack. The Hustle Pro will stick out a little bit more on the back when you wear it. This is due to the larger front compartment which we will take a closer look at later. However, the height and width are the same on both backpacks.
Shoulder Straps
The shoulder straps are where you will begin to see the biggest difference in fit and comfort. The Hustle 5.0 features cushioned and soft straps. On the other hand, the Hustle Pro has stiff, structured straps that are a little wider. Specifically, the Hustle 5.0's straps and are just under 3 inches wide and taper down, while the Hustle Pro's are a little over 3 inches wide.
The Hustle Pro comes with some upgrades for the shoulder straps. The first is a removable UA strap clip that lets you attach an Under Armour duffle bag. This strap clip is adjustable as needed and can be placed on either shoulder strap.
In addition the Hustle Pro comes with a sternum strap that is missing on the Hustle 5.0. However, it's important to note that the sternum strap on the Hustle Pro is fixed in place and cannot be adjusted up and down. If we are being honest, this is not the best sternum strap backpack design since you cannot control where the strap sits on your chest. Although it is an upgrade, Under Armour could have done a much better job here.
Lastly, the Hustle Pro includes Under Armour's LEVELED strap system, which have numbers printed on them. These numbers help you adjust the straps precisely for better weight distribution. The Hustle 5.0, in contrast, has regular straps without this feature.
Construction
It's worth noting that the Hustle 5.0 and Hustle Pro both have use identical materials and feel about the same. Both the Hustle 5.0 and Hustle Pro are made with polyester and use water-resistant UA Storm Technology to make protect your gear in the rain. Each back panel is made with breathable air mesh and is the same design. Lastly, Under Armour uses the same exact zippers on both backpacks.
Exterior Pockets
Moving on to the pockets, this is the area where these backpacks show the most differences.
Hustle 5.0 & Hustle Pro Shared Pockets
Like many Under Armour backpacks, both the Hustle 5.0 and Hustle Pro provide a tricot-lined valuables pocket on at the top for keeping items like sunglasses or tech gadgets. Additionally, there is a mesh water bottle pockets on each side of the backpacks. However, this is where the similarities come to an end.
Extra Pockets on the Hustle Pro
The Hustle Pro comes with three extra pockets on the front. On the one side there is a zippered pocket that features a small sleeve on the inside, which is perfect for securely holding a phone.
On the opposite side, there's a pocket with insulated lining to keep a water bottle cool. We found that it can fit a standard-sized sports squeeze bottle or even a couple of beverage cans.
The final additional pocket is an open compartment that is secured with a clip. This pocket is designed for quickly grabbing and stowing away items. It's great for things like hats, sweaty shirts, or workout accessories that you might want to access easily.
In summary, while both backpacks offer side mesh pockets for water bottles and a soft-lined top pocket, the UA Hustle Pro takes it up a notch with three extra front storage pockets that are missing on the UA Hustle 5.0.
Interior Compartments
Front and Shoe Compartments
Although the Hustle 5.0 and Hustle Pro do include a front compartment and a seperate main compartment, only the Hustle 5.0 includes a bottom shoe compartment. This roomy bottom compartment is designed to hold laundry, athletic shoes (we tested it with US Men's Size 12 shoes) and it's spacious enough for a full-sized basketball. However, this bottom compartment isn't present in the Hustle Pro.
Both backpacks feature a front zippered compartment, but only the Hustle 5.0 boasts organizer pockets inside for pens and small items. The Hustle Pro doesn't have these internal pockets. The lack of pockets is due to the front compartment in the Hustle Pro being intended to serve as a space for shoes and laundry. Although this front zippered compartment is larger than the one on the Hustle 5.0, we found it too small for a full-sized basketball.
The placement of the shoe compartment has its pros and cons with each backpack. It's important to note that the bottom compartment on the Hustle 5.0 shares it's space with the main compartment. So the more you pack inside that bottom compartment, the less packing space you'll have in the rest of the bag.
The UA Hustle Pro elimates this problem by giving you a gussetted front compartment for shoes and laundry on the front of the pack while keeping the packing space in the main compartment intact. But this design eliminates the extra pockets for pens and daily essentials that are featured in the Hustle 5.0. The design of the Hustle Pro makes it better suited for athletes who primarily carry lots of sports equipment, while the Hustle 5.0 might be a better fit for college students and those who need smaller organization pockets for daily carry.
HUstle 5.0 vs Hustle Pro MAIN COMPARTMENT
Overall, the Hustle 5.0 offers 29 liters of packing space, while the Hustle Pro offers 31.5 liters. Despite this difference, both main compartments are approximately the same size.
Both compartments feature a 15-inch soft-lined laptop sleeve positioned against the back. If you're using these backpacks for school, both can accommodate the same amount of books, folders, and notebooks.
For sports or gym use, both main compartments are capable of holding large items such as boxing gloves and toiletry bags. Yes, both compartments can also fit a basketball.
The additional packing room in the Hustle Pro is primarily attributed to its front shoe/laundry compartment. This is where you'll notice the most significant difference in packing as this front compartment adds extra packing room.
UA Hustle 5.0 vs Hustle Pro: Which Should You Buy?
UA Hustle 5.0
UA Hustle Pro
So, how do you make the decision between these two backpacks?
Both the UA Hustle 5.0 and UA Hustle Pro are excellent options for athletes, college students, and even travelers. They offer versatility to suit various needs thanks to their roomy main compartments and useful pockets.
The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 should be best looked at as a hybrid backpack. It provides a front compartment with enough smaller pockets for keeping your daily school or work essentials organized. The added bottom shoe compartment gives you the flexibility to use it as a gym bag or a daily laptop backpack, depending on your requirements for the day. This is because the main compartment and bottom compartment space is shared.
On the flip side, the upgrades in the Under Armour Hustle Pro are more tailored for student athletes and those who frequent the gym. Bonus features like the insulated water bottle pocket, the duffel bag attachment clip, and the replacement of small organizer pockets with a dedicated shoe and laundry compartment make it the perfect backpack for carrying sports and gym gear. While you can still use the Hustle Pro as a school bookbag or daily laptop backpack, the upgrades are primarily designed to cater to the needs of active lifestyles.
MORE HELPFUL RESOURCES:
Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus Packs - Which is Better?
Looking for a versatile daypack but not sure which one to choose? We compare the Daylite and Daylite Plus side by side to help you decide.
The Osprey Daylite or the Daylite Plus? What’s the difference? Which is better?
It’s going to be an easy choice thanks to this side-by-side comparison!
Both backpacks offer durable and lightweight construction, as well as a multi-use design for hiking, travel, and daily carry. However, there are a few key differences that set them apart and we are going to get down to the nitty-gritty to showcase them.
Whether you need an ultralight backpack for hiking or a little more room for daily carry, we dive deep and explore all of the details so you can discover which Osprey backpack is the better choice for your needs.
Video Review
Quick Specs
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 13 Liters | 20 Liters |
| Material | recycled polyester, PFC-free DWR finish |
recycled polyester, PFC-free DWR finish |
| Internal Sleeve | Non-padded elastic sleeve Laptop up to 13" |
Padded sleeve Laptop up to 15" |
| Back Panel Measurement | 17.5” H x 9.5” W | 18.5" H x 10” W |
| Front Storage | None | Shove-it pocket, zip pocket |
| Price |
Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus Side-by-Side
Size and Carrying Capacity
The first major difference between the Osprey Daylite and Daylite Plus are their sizes which for many people doesn’t become apparent until you have both packs side by side.
If you were to put on both backpacks, you would immediately notice how much more surface area the Daylite Plus takes up on the back compared to the smaller Daylite, which feels lighter overall. This difference in size can be best showcased in the back panel measurements when both packs are flat on the ground.
Our measurements of the back panels:
Daylite: 9.5” (W) x 17.5” (H)
Daylite Plus: 10” (W) x 18.5” (H)
Surprisingly enough, Osprey includes the same sized shoulder straps on both the Daylite and Daylite Plus despite their overall size differences. In fact, both sets of shoulder strap harnesses are near identical.
In conclusion, the Daylite would be a better fit for people who are more comfortable with a smaller backpack and the Daylite Plus’ additional surface area could be a welcome addition for taller people who want more support.
Above both backpacks are pictured with the same exact pack-out of a 13” laptop, light jacket, small notebook, tech case and large headphones. As you can see the Daylite is practically filled to the brim while the Daylite Plus has plenty of room to spare.
Internally, the Osprey Daylite offers a modest 13 liters of packing room while the Daylite Plus gives you 20 liters plus an additional front shove-it pocket (more on this below). This allows the Daylite Plus to give you a hefty amount of extra packing room.
To give you a realistic example of the main compartment size difference, the Osprey Daylite, at 13 liters, is large enough for a quick day hike or to use as a lightweight daypack for just the bare essentials, while the Daylite Plus, at 20 liters, allows you to pack a few extras, making it more suitable as a backpack for travel, daily commutes, or longer hikes.
What Fits Inside the 13L Daylite:
2L Hydration Bladder filled
Fleece Jacket (women's size medium)
Small First Aid Kit (6.5” x 4.5” x 2”)
Bag of Snacks
What Fits Inside the 20L Daylite Plus:
All of the above
Large 1L Coffee Thermos
Birdwatching Book (8.5” x 5.75” x 1.5”)
Additional Pockets and Compartments
Both the Daylite and Daylite Plus offer similar pocket configurations and share the same front compartment with slip pockets and a key clip. These slip pockets are large enough to fit a phone, wallet, snacks, and other smaller items.
The two backpacks also share stretchy water bottle pockets that can easily fit larger 32-ounce water bottles.
Where the backpacks start to part ways is with the front shove-it pocket on the front of the Daylite Plus. This shove-it pocket is barely large enough for bulky items like a bike helmet or shoes, but it is the perfect spot for items that require quick access, like sandals, a hat, gloves, or snacks.
Osprey also adds a zippered pocket to the front of the Daylite Plus for extra storage, giving the Daylite Plus two additional pockets over the Daylite.
The last pocket can be found inside each respective main compartment. The Osprey Daylite and Daylite Plus both offer an internal sleeve for a laptop or tablet that doubles as a hydration pocket.
The major difference is that the Osprey Daylite gives you a thin and stretchy sleeve for a device up to 13 inches, while the Daylite Plus offers more protection with a padded sleeve for a device up to 15 inches. For commuters who need maximum tech protection, the Daylite Plus is the clear winner.
Materials and Comfort Features
The Osprey Daylite and Daylite Plus offer near-identical construction. Both backpacks use the same bluesign® approved recycled polyester materials with a PFC-free DWR coating for water resistance and are equipped with the exact same zippers and internal lining.
It’s worth noting that although the exterior fabric offers some water resistance, the zippers do not. Will these backpacks do okay in light rain? Yes. But beware of heavy downpours or big splashes where moisture has a chance to sneak in through the zippers.
Both backpacks also provide you with breathable Airscape die-cut EVA foam back panels. Unlike older versions of the Daylite series, these back panels are not removable. Additionally, both the Daylite and Daylite Plus are equipped with a removable 20mm hip belt and an adjustable chest strap with a built-in whistle.
One difference in construction is with the shoulder straps, but it’s a small difference that doesn’t have much impact. Osprey uses die-cut EVA foam padding on the upper portion of the shoulder straps on the Daylite Plus, while the Daylite uses spacer mesh. Both shoulder harnesses are incredibly breathable, and although the die-cut EVA foam on the Daylite Plus offers a little more padding, the difference is negligible.
Which backpack is better?
Choose the Osprey Daylite if… You want an ultralight backpack for hiking, travel and daily carry or if you prefer the fit of a smaller backpack. The Osprey Daylite offers easy, care-free carry of just the essentials.
Choose the Osprey Daylite Plus if… You want a lightweight backpack for hiking, travel and daily carry but need the extra protection of a padded laptop sleeve and could use extra pockets for organization.
14 Backpack Strap Pocket and Pouch Options - Built-In and Modular
Easy access to your most important items! In this buying guide we take a look at all of your backpack strap pocket options.
So, you want a backpack with pockets on the straps? The bad news is that this convenient little feature isn’t as common as we would like. The good news is that you still have some options!
In this buying guide, we have researched what is available and have included some of our favorite backpack designs that feature pockets in the shoulder straps, as well as some modular backpack strap pouch options. Whether you need a secure place to store a Metro Card or quick access to your smartphone, there is something for you.
What are the options?
Built-In: Backpack Shoulder Strap Pocket
Photo: Able Carry Thirteen Daybag with hidden strap pockets
Backpacks with strap pockets aren’t common, but they can be found if you look hard enough. The main limitation with built-in strap pockets is that most shoulder straps are thin, limiting the size of the pocket. Some brands have creative solutions, like stretchy pockets for phones, but the majority of built-in strap pockets are only large enough to fit small flat items such as a credit card or cash.
Modular: Backpack Strap Pouch
Photo: Chrome Barrage Cargo Backpack with Chrome Tech Accessory Pouch
If you want a shoulder strap pocket that can fit larger items like a large cell phone, a small notebook, or earbuds, your best bet is to go with an add-on shoulder strap pouch. These pouches are much larger than built-in shoulder strap pockets and offer more versatility in terms of what you can carry.
You can either buy into a modular backpack system, meaning a backpack brand that offers different modular shoulder strap pouches and pockets, or stick with the backpack you already own and choose a universal strap pouch. In this buying guide, we offer options for both.
Shoulder Strap Pocket Backpacks
Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti-Theft
Designed for optimal anti-theft security, the Pacsafe Metrosafe Anti-Theft Commuter Backpack will give you the ultimate peace of mind during busy commutes. While the most important pockets are located on the inside, it's the exterior of the backpack that offers the most wow-factor. You have a main compartment with an integrated lock, puncture-resistant zippers, and even the ability to lock the entire bag to a table or chair leg to prevent grab-and-run theft in public spaces.
The common backpack shoulder strap pocket is a small slip pocket for quick access to small items, but the Pacsafe Metrosafe Commuter goes a step further and offers a full zip design for an added layer of security. Here you can stash away small items like earbuds or a metro card and know they're going to be safe and sound during your daily commute.
Able Carry Thirteen Daybag
Small but mighty, the Able Carry Thirteen is a highly water resistant backpack that keeps you organized without the bulk. Along with a protective 13” laptop sleeve, you have plenty of dedicated spots to stash essentials like keys, chargers, and a water bottle.
The Able Carry Thirteen Daybag is easily one of our favorite backpacks with secret compartments, and two of those compartments are located inside the shoulder straps. Each shoulder strap is equipped with a small slip pocket that can fit small, flat items like metro cards, IDs, and credit cards. It makes a night out in the city safer and your public transportation trips a breeze.
SwissGear ScanSmart Backpack
The SwissGear ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is a highly versatile bag designed to keep up with your busy daily routine and travel needs. It offers a crazy amount of compartments for optimal organization, a lay-flat compartment for easy TSA scans, and a bottom shoe compartment for the ability to separate your packing.
If you are specifically looking for a backpack with a cell phone pocket on the strap, then you are in luck. What sets this backpack apart is the built-in power bank pocket in the laptop compartment that allows you to route a charging cable to the outside of the pack. Store your phone inside the shoulder strap pocket, and now you have an integrated system for staying charged on the go!
Osprey Arcane Large Day
Designed for everyday commuting and busy days on campus, the Osprey Arcane backpack is equipped with features to make life just a little bit easier. Inside the main compartment, you are greeted with an organization panel for your laptop, chargers, keys, and other daily essentials.
One of our favorite design features of the Arcane backpack is all of the discreet low-profile pockets that can be found around the outside of the bag. On one side of the pack, you’ll find a low-profile stretch water bottle pocket that stays against the bag for a cleaner look when not in use, while a stretchy strap pocket is located on the right shoulder strap for easy access to small items you need quick access to, such as earbuds or transportation cards.
FENRUIEN Expandable Laptop Backpack
The Fenruien Business Expandable Backpack is for both, well, you guessed it, business and travel. Its secret weapon is an expandable compartment that allows for a slim 26-liter daily carry size on workdays and an impressive 38 liters of packing room when expanded for travel packing. Other awesome features include laptop and tablet sleeves, a USB-C charging port, and plenty of pockets for organization.
This backpack also has a hidden strap pocket for cards. It’s a great spot for those identification and public transportation cards you need quick access to, and a built-in zipper keeps it nice and secure.
Modular Systems: Backpack Strap Pouches
Think of a modular backpack system as an ecosystem of backpacks and accessory attachments that flawlessly work together. Once you own the bag, you can start mixing and matching extra pouches and accessories to expand your carry. There are a few brands that offer these kinds of systems, but for shoulder strap pouches and pockets, the ones we feature below are our favorites.
Chrome Industries Backpacks + Accessory Pouches
Chrome is known for their highly water-resistant and tough-as-nails backpacks (no, seriously, these bags are built like tanks) for daily carry and commuting. We are partial to the Chrome Barrage Cargo for its rugged construction and cool colorways, but the brand offers a ton of great designs to fit your needs.
Whether you are looking for a backpack strap pouch for your phone or easy access to a pen and small notebook, Chrome offers a few great modular add-ons that can be purchased separately and are designed to attach specifically to their backpack straps. You can also use the pouches as standalone organizer storage and toss them inside the pack. These little pouches are built as rugged as their backpacks and we wouldn’t except any less from Chrome.
Chrome Tech Accessory Pouch
Chrome Phone Pouch
The Chrome Tech Accessory Pouch is large enough for all your little bits and bobs like a pen, charging cable, small notebook and a phone. Need a fast way to access your phone? Check out their Phone Pouches that can attach to any Chrome backpack strap.
Alpaka Elements Backpack + Modular Ad-Ons
If you are looking to enter an ecosystem of modular backpack strap pouches and accessories, then Alpaka is where you want to look. The Alpaka Elements is a compact urban backpack with an emphasis on organized daily carry. This is achieved by Alpaka's growing number of modular attachments that allow you to add special pockets where you need them for smarter carry.
Alpaka gives you the option to build a collection of the HUB Ecosystem of magnetic accessory attachments or go with modular pouches that can be attached to the shoulder straps of the Alpaka Elements Backpack. No matter what you need to carry, Alpaka offers a solution for everything from ID badges to earbuds and phones.
Alpaka Metro Pouch
Alpaka Modular Sling
Our favorite Alpaka backpack strap pouch has to be the Metro Pouch, a compact pouch for everyday essentials like earbuds, transportation cards, and small EDC tools. The Metro Pouch can be attached to a backpack strap or any one of Alpaka's various sling bags. A close second is the Alpaka Modular Sling, which includes a strap so you can carry the pouch as a standalone sling bag but can also be attached to a backpack strap. Inside, you'll be able to store valuables like a phone, passport, and tech.
Topo Designs Backpacks + Accessory Pouches
When people think of modular bags, Topo Designs usually doesn’t come to mind, but the truth is that the brand offers a great range of backpack designs that can be used with add-on shoulder strap pouches.
What’s great about Topo Designs is that their backpack collection ranges from affordable daily packs to higher-end American-made backpacks, allowing you to pick your poison according to your budget.
Topo Designs Taco Bag
Topo Designs Mountain Accessory Bag
Our favorite Topo pouches are the Taco Bag and Mountain Accessory Bag. Both of these pouches can be attached to backpack shoulder straps using the built-in clips and are large enough for small essentials like AirPods, cash, and cards.
Mission Workshop Arkiv Modular Backpack System
As far as modular backpacks go, the Mission Workshop Arkiv System offers some of the best, thanks to their incredible construction and innovative features. The Arkiv System gives you the option of a few different sized base backpacks and allows you to add as many accessories as your heart desires, so that you can build the perfect pack from the ground up. Some of their shoulder strap attachments include a phone pocket and utility pocket for tools and small essentials.
Universal Backpack Strap Pouches
If you don’t want to purchase a new backpack then universal shoulder strap pockets are always an affordable option. These ad-on pouches allow you to attach a strap pocket to a backpack you already own.
The only requirement with many of these is that your backpack straps should already have a horizontal loop or tab for attachments.
Clakit Phone Strap Pack
The Clakit Phone Strap Pack is as close to a universal strap pouch as you’ll get, thanks to its innovative wrap-around clip that allows you to attach the pouch to nearly any backpack strap. Inside, you’ll be able to fit a phone for easy access when you are on the move.
BOOSTEADY Backpack Strap Pouch
The BOOSTEADY Backpack Strap Pouch is a large and affordable pouch for storing essential items that you need quick access to. Inside, you’ll be able to store items like a phone, small notebook, pens, and chargers thanks to its internal mesh pockets.
To use this backpack strap pouch, you’ll need a pack with a horizontal attachment loop to secure the pouch. Although most tactical backpacks have MOLLE attachments on the straps for compatibility, some daily backpacks also have something similar, so you should check your backpack before purchasing.
REI Co-Op Packmod Rainshield Pocket
The REI Rainshield is a shoulder strap pocket that can be attached to any backpack that has horizontal attachment loops. What makes this pocket special is its weatherproof seam-taped nylon construction that makes it perfect for commuting and backpacking, where keeping your gear dry is key. Inside, you can fit a phone, map, snacks, or whatever else your heart desires!
Best Backpacks with Shoe Compartments - Tested and Reviewed!
Looking for the best backpack with a shoe compartment? We tested almost a dozen backpacks to find our top picks across travel, gym-carry, sports and daily laptop carry categories.
Whether you need a reliable backpack for the gym, work or travel having a backpack with a shoe compartment is the easiest way to carry an extra pair of shoes from point A to B.
In this buying guide we test almost a dozen backpacks to find out which ones float to the top. We like the King Kong EDGE as a dedicated gym pack and Pacsafe EXP35 for its great anti-theft features. We also feature our favorite backpacks with shoe compartments for work, travel and those on a budget to make sure there is something that matches your carry needs.
Video Review
Overview: Our Top Picks
KING KONG EDGE
Versatile work, travel and gym backpack with shoe compartment.
The King Kong EDGE is a sleek, durable and feature-packed gym backpack with shoe compartment that has quickly become one of our favorites. This is thanks to its large 35-liter main compartment that’s perfect for training gear like weight lifting belts, boxing gloves and other bulkier items. On light duty days the magnetic buckle side straps allow you to compress the backpack for a sleeker profile.
But the King Kong EDGE is more than just a gym bag! Features like a separate admin compartment, 17” laptop compartment and multiple organizer pockets also give it the ability to turn into a work or travel backpack when you need it. Whether you are packing for a workout day, weekend trip or a busy work week - the EDGE will have all of the room you need to conquer it all in style!
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 35L
Huge padded 17” laptop compartment
Large pack-flat clamshell main compartment with plenty of internal pockets
Versatile: gym, work, daily or travel bag
25 Year Warranty
Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket
PACSAFE EXP35
A travel backpack with an innovative anti-theft design, plenty of storage and a convenient shoe compartment.
The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 backpack is perfect for those who need a travel backpack with a shoe compartment that has the features to also adapt to work commutes and gym days.
Some of its best features include a tough duffle-inspired construction, an amazing array of organization pockets and an advanced anti-theft design to keep your gear safe from theft, pick-pockets and RFID attacks. The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 can be best described as the “Fort Knox” of backpacks and it showcases a gold-standard in anti-theft design.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 35L
Padded 16” laptop sleeve
Serious anti-theft design with self-locking zippers, anti-slash fabric and RFID-blocking pockets
Lots of pockets to organize passports, pens, keys and smaller items.
Shoe Compartment: bottom pocket
The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is a roomy 29-liter backpack with plenty of organization and a clever shoe compartment that is accessed through the bottom of the bag. This backpack is perfect for those who need a reliable school or sports backpack without breaking the bank.
But despite its affordable price, the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to features. Small details like fleece lined laptop and valuables pockets, water resistant exterior fabric and metal zippers allows the Hustle to punch above its class.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 29L
Available in over a dozen colors
Laptop sleeve fits up to 15” MacBook Pro
Roomy main compartment and secondary admin compartment for smaller items
Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket
More Great Backpacks We Tested
Public Rec Pro Pack Plus
A stylish office-friendly backpack with separate compartments for work and travel packing.
The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus makes a great backpack with a shoe compartment because it doesn’t scream “gym backpack” - instead it offers a minimalist exterior that is clean enough to wear to the office while at the same time offering incredible daily organization.
Along with a sneaky hidden shoe pocket, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus offers a clever partitioned design that allows you to keep your travel (or gym) packing and work items completely separated. This means no rummaging through sweatpants to get to your work laptop. Throughout the backpack you’ll also find lots of sweet features like an easy-access phone pocket, water bottle pockets and water resistant materials and zippers for peace of mind on rainy days.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 26.5L
Separate rear “work” and front “packing” compartments
15” padded laptop sleeve and separate tablet sleeve
Versatile design can be used for commuting, gym or travel
Water resistant design
Shoe compartment: bottom pocket
Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack
Sleek low-profile backpack with shoe compartment for those who want just one “everything” bag.
The Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack is our favorite backpack for work and the gym, thanks to its thoughtful design that offers a seamless transition from a long day at the office to workout sessions. Throughout its design, you’ll find numerous great pockets for organizing your daily essentials within a water-resistant construction that keeps your most important items safe on rainy days.
Travel-specific features like a luggage trolley sleeve and handles for easy access in overhead compartments also make the Dayfarer V2 an easy pick for flights. The bottom shoe compartment is just one of the many fantastic features in a long array of clever pockets for items like toiletries and gym gear, making the Modern Dayfarer V2 a true “everything backpack” in one streamlined package.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24L
16” laptop compartment protected with water resistant zipper
Tough water resistant construction
Lots of internal pockets for organization
Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket
KING KONG PLUS26
A rugged feature-packed gym backpack with exterior shoe pocket.
With the PLUS26, King Kong offers a heavy-hitter that really shines in a sea of mediocre gym bags. This backpack just makes sense. For one, the shoe pocket is found on the front of the backpack instead of the inside. This means better ventilation for your shoes while also avoiding taking up precious space in the main compartment.
There is also the dual access 26-liter main compartment that is just large enough for your gym essentials without making the bag too bulky for daily carry. The main compartment has a top-loading access zipper for daily use while the back zipper allows for full clamshell access to the inside. It’s design features like these that makes the King Kong PLUS26 easily one of our favorite gym backpacks.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 26L
Padded laptop sleeve
25 year guarantee
Dual-access main compartment (top loading and clamshell)
Shoe compartment: External front pocket
The Troubadour Pioneer is perfect for someone who wants a backpack with a shoe compartment with a sophisticated professional design and premium materials. At 23.5 liters the Pioneer is the most compact and streamlined out of any of the backpacks we have tested but this could really work for those in more professional environments where carrying a bulky backpack isn’t an option.
Despite its minimalist exterior, the Troubadour Pioneer is packed full of pockets and compartments for organization. The main compartment has a great variety of zippered pockets and smaller slip pockets to organize you daily work items. On the outside you’ll find even more pockets for quick-access to essentials.
The bottom shoe compartment offers a discreet way to carry shoes or extra clothing and can easily fit up to a size 12 (US) pair of men’s running shoes. This is also one of the only backpacks we have tested that features built-in vents to allow the compartment to breathe to prevent the trapping of stinky odors. Although a small detail it makes all of the difference!
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 23.5L
17” laptop sleeve that can be accessed with dedicated side zipper
Great internal pockets for organizing daily work items
Sleek professional design with water resistant construction
Shoe compartment: bottom pocket
Our Research
Who is This Guide For
There is a wide variety of people who may need a reliable backpack with a shoe compartment and we hade three specific types of people in mind.
Athletes and Gym Go-ers
Sports and gym backpacks offer sportier casual design often with activity-specific features such as sports equipment, pockets for balls and accommodation for protective gear like gloves and pads. The most important feature in a sports and gym backpack is the main compartment and whether or not your specific gear will be able to fit inside of it.
If you find yourself changing into your workout shoes at your destination to the gym or sports practice then you a sports or gym backpack with a shoe compartment may be what you need to separate your shoes from the rest of your clean items during transport.
Although there are tons of different types of athletic shoes, the backpacks we reviewed here all can fit running shoes, trainers and cleats.
Travelers
Traveling with shoes calls for a backpack with a shoe compartment. It’s the simplest way to pack with shoes and keep them separate from clean items. Shoe compartments also double as laundry compartment and give you the ability to separate your dirty clothing from your clean items during your trip. Say goodbye to packing extra laundry bags!
Travel backpacks are usually larger (30L+) than everyday laptop backpacks to accommodate for travel packing. Our favorite travel backpacks open like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking or feature expandable compartments for even more versatility.
Besides the larger capacity, the main difference between a travel backpack and a daily bag is its emphasis on security and travel features. Examples include lockable zippers, pockets for a passport, extra exterior handles and a trolley sleeve for attaching the bag to rolling luggage. If you are planning on using your backpack primarily for travel then going with a travel-specific backpack with a shoe compartment may be the way to go.
One Bag For Work and Gym/Travel
If you find yourself often switching between a daily carry backpack for work and a secondary backpack for gym or travel then you may benefit from a hybrid backpack that combines the best features of each.
A work and gym backpack will have everything you need for your daily work carry plus extra features for your workout gear such as a shoe compartment, water bottle pockets and extra storage for a change of clothing.
A work and travel backpack will often have extra security features such as lockable zippers and RFID-safe pockets as well as the space to accommodate for travel packing while still offering the daily carry features you need for commutes to work.
Unlike backpacks dedicated to the gym or travel, these versatile bags offer a more refined business casual backpack design that won’t look out of place at the office and are usually smaller in size (under 30L) for a more compact look.
How We Tested These Backpacks
We spent a few months researching different backpacks with shoe compartments before compiling our final list. This included real world use as well as testing in our studio to make sure each bag delivered in its promised performance. With each backpack we asked a serious of questions to help us determine its quality.
Is the shoe pocket roomy enough?
We tested each backpack with a women’s size 8 and a men’s size 12 (US sizes) running shoes to judge the roominess of each shoe compartment.
The men’s shoes we used measured 12.5” in length and 4.5” in width. You can use these measurements to compare with your own shoes or use a handy shoe size conversion guide to determine how much room your shoes will take up in comparison.
All of the backpacks tested must at least be able to fit a men’s size 12 running shoes inside the shoe compartment in order to be included in our picks. This provides a guaranteed fit for readers with smaller shoe sizes. In addition, all of our original photography showcases the shoe compartment with a men’s size 12 sneakers so that you can easily compare each compartment.
Note: Boots and larger shoes were not used to test the shoe compartments and we cannot guarantee that the shoe compartments in the backpacks tested will be roomy enough to fit shoes larger than a men’s size 12. If you have questions about whether larger shoes will fit, please contact the respective backpack brand for more information.
Is it a good quality backpack?
In addition to having a shoe pocket, we took construction quality and comfort into consideration when rating and reviewing each backpack.
Construction Materials - Backpacks with great zipper quality, robust stitching, and quality fabrics such a nylon floated to the top. A great backpack should feel as good as it looks.
Water Resistant Construction - Water resistant outer materials and zippers were a huge plus when choosing these backpacks.
Comfortable Back Panel and Shoulder Straps - adequately padded shoulder straps, padded back panels and the inclusion of chest straps all tied into our ratings.
Is the backpack well designed?
Those looking for a backpack with a shoe compartment usually fall into two categories:
Gym backpacks with a shoe compartment
Travel backpacks with a shoe compartment
Most backpacks with shoe pockets can be used for both gym and travel despite the brand marketing specifying one or the other. With this in mind, we tested each backpack for both daily carry situations (work, school) and for travel/gym carry.
Below is a sample of the items we used when testing each backpack:
Daily Carry (Work/School)
Laptop (and tablet if backpack had a tablet sleeve)
3-subject notebook and 1-inch binder
Pens and pencils
Tech chargers (laptop and phone charge, misc cables)
Cell Phone
Apple Airpods or other earbuds
Travel/Gym Carry
Shoes in shoe compartment
1-3x change of clothing
Toiletries bag
For gym: boxing gloves, weight lifting belt and gloves, resistant bands, jump rope, towel
The best backpack with a shoe pocket can carry all of the above and is versatile enough to use as a daily carry backpack as well as a gym or travel bag. What this means is that you can’t go wrong with our top 3 selections and choosing comes down to style preferences and the need for specific features such as exterior laptop compartments or trolley sleeves for attaching the backpack to luggage.
Other important features that determined our likeliness to recommend include the following:
Water bottle pockets
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Smaller pockets for organization
Main compartment size (~30L seems to be the sweet spot for travel/gym carry)
Types of Shoe Compartment Backpacks
There are three common types of backpacks with shoe compartments and each one is a little different. Below is a helpful explanation of each type so you know the difference when shopping for a new backpack.
FRONT ACCESS
Front access backpacks have a front loading shoe pocket that is separate from the main compartment. The main compartment and shoe compartment is usually divided by polyester or nylon material. Some backpacks do a good job at separating the two compartments but others may take up space in the main compartment if the shoe pocket is filled.
Many people prefer shoe compartments with front access because they can retrieve their shoes without having to completely pick up the bag or lay it flat. Another pro of having front access is that the bottom stays flat when set down on the ground. Bottom compartments can make the bag bottom uneven when filled with shoes.
BOTTOM COMPARTMENT
Bottom Compartment backpacks place a compartment on the bottom of the bag that is completely separate from the main compartment. Unlike backpacks with bottom access or front access shoe compartments, a backpack with a bottom compartment does not dig into the main compartment as its being filled because it has it’s own reserved space.
One thing to note with bottom compartment backpacks is that their main compartments may be smaller due to the addition of the bottom compartment.
BOTTOM ACCESS
Bottom access shoe compartment backpacks usually have a zipper entry at the very bottom of the backpack that opens up to a shoe compartment. The difference between a bottom compartment backpack and bottom access shoe compartment backpack is that the bottom access bag share the storage space with the main compartment.
Like front access shoe compartment backpacks, the shoe compartment and main compartment is divided by polyester or nylon fabric.
Best Gym Backpack with Shoe Compartment: King Kong EDGE
King Kong EDGE35
Why We Chose This Backpack
The King Kong EDGE feels like one of the most complete bags on our list thanks to its versatile design and clever pocket placement. It’s 35L main compartment is roomy enough for gym packing of bulky training gear and is also large enough for serious travel packing. Since this backpack opens like a suitcase, it’s super easy to pack your items while having a birds-eye view of all the pockets that line the inside.
As a daypack you can simply cinch side compression straps down the to reduce the EDGE’s size. A separate admin compartment on the front and a laptop compartment in the rear provide you with great organization of everyday carry.
Out of all of the bags we have tested the EDGE definitely felt the most heavy-duty with robust fabrics and beefy zippers throughout. This is the kind of bag you wouldn’t feel bag about tossing around in the gym and the top and side handles makes it easy to do just that!
Large open-flat main compartment
Finding a backpack with a bottom compartment for shoe storage can be a challenge for those who carry bulkier items like boxing gloves and headgear without resorting to a gym duffel bag. Thankfully King Kong has designed the “Goldilocks” of gym backpacks that is just the right size for your workout gear without looking ridiculously large when worn.
This is thanks to its large 35-liter clamshell main compartment that allows you to lay the backpack flat for easy packing and unpacking. The main compartment is also lined with mesh pockets so you can organize clothing and smaller items while keeping the rest of the main compartment open for larger items.
On light carry days the side Fidlock magnetic straps can compress the backpack down for an even slimmer profile while still allowing you full access to the top, bottom, laptop and admin compartments for daily essentials.
The Shoe Compartment
The shoe pocket on the King Kong EDGE is a bottom access pocket which means that the pocket will cut into the main compartment’s capacity when used. This is the most common configuration you’ll find when looking for a backpack with shoe compartment. For a different front loading shoe pocket design we recommend the King Kong Plus26 backpack.
The EDGE’s bottom shoe pocket is very roomy and can easily fit larger men’s sneakers/trainers. We successfully fit men’s size 12 running shoes into this pocket with room to spare.
There is also another similar yet smaller pocket on the top of the backpack that can be used for smaller shoes or bulkier items that you need quick access to.
Durability meets sleek design
King Kong has really succeeded in offering a backpack that feels as good as it looks. The bag itself is made out of a tough 1000D Nylon while the inside features a 210D Ripstop Nylon lining to prevent rips and tears.
The hardware is also high quality with each pocket using premium YKK zippers and the side compression straps featuring magnetic Fidlock quick release buckles. The bag just feels nice which goes a long way when using the backpack day in and day out.
Tech Carry
One of the features of the King Kong EDGE that we really like is the large laptop compartment that has its own separate zipper access. The padded laptop compartment located against the back panel can fit a whopping 17-inch laptop making the EDGE ideal for those looking for a quality gym laptop backpack with shoe compartment.
For tech accessories like cables and chargers the front admin compartment gives you plenty of pockets to organize smaller items with ease.
Best Travel Backpack with Shoe Compartment: Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35
Why We Chose This Backpack
We like to describe the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 as the Fort-Knox of backpacks. The anti-theft features are incredible and although we could try to list them all here (we try) it’s probably just best to check out the Pacsafe website to learn more about each specific technology.
But we will say this - although many travel backpacks have lockable zippers, few have ones that lock themselves. The anti-theft zippers on the Venturesafe EXP35 work right out of the box without having to worry about bringing your own TSA locks.
The overall design on the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 is great for those who value organization and discretion. Special pockets for valuable items like a phone, wallet or passport is tucked away and not easily reachable to sticky fingers. The 3-sided zipper to the main compartment is also a great touch that we appreciate when packing for a trip. Unlike traditional top-loading backpacks, the 3-sided zipper feels more like suitcase packing and of course the bottom shoe compartment adds much needed seperation of dirty and clean items while traveling.
Pockets and Organization
Organization is one of the things the Venturesafe EXP35 does best and it’s hard to disagree once you delve into all of its pockets and compartments.
The dedicated compartments for organization give you everything you need to neatly store smaller items. The zippered pocket on the front gives you quick-access to airpods, sunglasses or a wallet thanks to an included special RFID-protected pocket. If you want to be extra sneaky, you can use the admin panel zippered pocket inside the main compartment to keep important items like a passport or cash. This discrete compartment kind of blends into the main compartment wall to obscure its presence.
To access your laptop simply use the zipper against the back panel, no need to rummage through your main compartment like with other bags. But of course with Pacsafe being Pacsafe, the laptop compartment also has a locking zipper for peace of mind.
Water bottles can easily be stashed in the big stretchy mesh side pockets. These pockets can easily fit larger bottles and the side compression straps don’t hinder what you can carry inside (simply expand the compression strap to accommodate a larger bottle).
The Main Compartment
One feature we love about the EXP35 is its 3-sided zipper that gives you clamshell access to the main compartment for easy packing and unpacking. From workout gear to your favorite t-shirt, the EXP35 makes it super easy to find what you need inside quickly when the main compartment is wide open.
Having a light carry day? No problem! The EXP35’s compression straps allow you to compress the bag down on days where you only need the essentials.
Although the 35-liter main compartment is enough to pack for short trips, the shoe compartment does take up room in the main compartment when utilized. As a result you can expect to fit 3-4 days of clothing and toiletries when the shoe compartment is empty and 1-2 days of clothing and toiletries when storing shoes.
Anti-Theft Features
We can’t talk about PacSafe backpacks without mentioning their incredible anti-theft features. The PacSafe Venturesafe EXP35 is not only built like a tank but makes it easy to keep your gear safe without a second thought - something most other gym backpacks don’t consider in their design.
The exterior of the EXP35 is made with eXomesh slashguard fabric that prevents cuts and slashes from tearing through the fabric. Each zipper on this backpack is also self-locking so that its harder for thieves to gain access to the inside. Opportunity makes the thief after all.
One of the shoulder straps is also equipped with a PopNLock security clip so that you can secure your EXP35 to a fixed object like a table leg to prevent theft if you were ever to leave your bag unattended in a busy cafe or other public space.
If you are looking for a travel backpack with a shoe compartment that means business - we think its safe to say that the PacSafe Venturesafe EXP35 is definitely up your alley.
What We Don’t Like
One feature we would have liked to have seen was a dedicated tablet sleeve. There is no comfortable pocket to store a tablet outside of letting it sit in the main compartment or using the laptop compartment.
Like other backpacks with compression straps, you will have to unclip the compression straps whenever you want to open the main compartment completely. But the saving grace is that if you position the zippers at the top you can always access the main compartment like you would a regular top-loading backpack.
The above are certainly not design flaws but small gripes from using the backpack. For a travel backpack with a shoe compartment the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 feel thoughtfully designed and intuitive to use. And its great anti-theft features is what really puts it in a league of its own.
Budget Pick For Sports and School: Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack
Under Armour Hustle 5.0
Why We Chose this Backpack
The Under Armour Hustle checks a lot of boxes when it comes to a good sports backpack with a shoe compartment. It’s roomy 29-liter capacity makes it a good mid-sized pack for those who need room for sports gear like balls, shoes and clothing.
It’s also an affordable pack - you can usually grab one for $55 and if you are lucky you can catch it on sale at a reduced price. This makes it perfect for students on a budget who need a reliable backpack for both class and team practice after school.
As a standalone backpack for school you’ll have plenty of pockets for organizing stuff like pens and chargers plus the main compartment is roomy enough for multiple large books, notebooks and binders. The 15-inch laptop sleeve also keeps your tech safe thanks to its soft-touch lining to prevent scratches.
Pockets and Compartments
Where the Under Armour Hustle really shines is with its pockets and compartments. The bag can be divided into three major compartments: the main compartments, the front admin compartment and the bottom shoe compartment.
The main compartment is where the bulk of your carry will live and we found it roomy enough to carry multiple large notebooks, books and binders. If you plan on using the UA Hustle primarily as a sports backpack then you’ll be pleased to know that the main compartment is large enough for a size 7 basketball.
A secondary front admin compartment hosts lots of smaller slip pockets for items like pens, tech chargers and other bits and bobs. This compartment is also large enough to hold smaller notebooks and books.
On the outside of the pack you’ll find a smaller fleece-lined pocket for a phone or sunglasses and two mesh water bottle pockets. We found that these bottle pockets can fit up to a 32oz Nalgene bottle just fine.
Another cool detail is the addition of small attachment loops and D-Rings on the shoulder straps that allows extra gear like carabiners and keys to be attached in an easy to reach spot. Under Armour is known for adding small details like these to their backpack designs that really add to the daily carry experience.
If you are looking for a sports backpack with a shoe compartment that can also double as your daily school bookbag, then the Under Armour Hustle is your best option out of all of the backpacks we have tested. Not only is it affordable but it has features catered to student athletes who need to partition their school and sports items.
The Shoe Compartment
The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is perfect for both athletes with busy schedules and fitness buffs who need a reliable gym backpack with shoe storage. The shoe pocket on the Hustle 5.0 is located at the bottom of the bag and is large enough to hold a small pair of sneakers and some extras or one pair men’s sneakers up to a US size twelve.
Like most gym backpacks with a shoe compartment, the main compartment and shoe compartment share the same space. This means reduced room in the main compartment when you are carrying shoes in the bottom pocket.
What We Don’t Like
When comparing the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 to the other backpacks tested there is a pretty large gap in terms of quality. The polyester construction is very lightweight and doesn’t feel as robust as heavier fabrics. Maybe we are spoiled but the UA Hustle definitely feels every bit of a cheaper backpack and because of this we wouldn’t be our first choice out of the bags we tested.
Another gripe is with the back panel. It it just a solid panel of mesh foam with no cut outs or air channels for breathability. We can see this being a nuisance in the hot weather months where a lack of airflow is less forgiving. This back panel isn’t terrible but it definitely could be better.
Best Backpack For Work And Travel: Public Rec Pro Pack Plus
Public Rec Pro Pack Plus
Why We Chose This Backpack
Public Rec advertises the Pro Pack Plus as the perfect work and travel backpack, and we agree that it checks all the boxes.
With a capacity of 27.5L, the Pro Pack Plus works well as a single bag for short work trips. Its structured design is well-suited for those who need a backpack with a bottom compartment while still maintaining a sleek and professional look during office days.
The biggest strength of the Pro Pack Plus is its partitioned design, which allows you to keep your gym or travel packing completely separate from your work items. This means no rummaging through sweatpants to get to your laptop or pens.
Not only is the Pro Pack Plus a functional workhorse for daily carry, but it also feels as good as it looks. The shoulder straps and back panel are generously padded, and the zippers are buttery smooth. Plus, the water-resistant poly-twill fabric, structured construction, and minimalist branding will give you a mature, professional look day in and day out.
Partitioned Compartments
The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus can be divided into two major compartments: the main packing compartment and the rear "work" compartment. The main compartment is where you will find the majority of your storage. This compartment is large and deep, allowing you to pack bulkier items for workouts or travel. We found that you can easily pack for a 2-3 day trip.
The rear "work" compartment can be thought of as your home base for daily work carry. Here, you’ll find a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a secondary sleeve for a tablet. A nice array of mesh and slip pockets will also give you the organization you need for smaller items like pens and tech chargers.
What we appreciate about this rear compartment is that it’s roomy enough also store a notebook or binder, giving you the room for comprehensive business carry. This carry division is also why the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus excels when it comes to work/travel or work/gym carry.
Exterior Pockets
Along with great exterior organization, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus also offers some excellent external pockets. On the top, you’ll find a pocket for your sunglasses or phone, while two water bottle slip pockets cradle the sides of the bag. Commuters and travelers alike will appreciate the hidden zippered pocket found against the back panel, which allows you to discreetly stash a passport, cash, or a phone.
The Shoe Compartment
Unlike other backpacks with shoe compartments, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus keeps its shoe pocket discrete and semi-hidden at the bottom of the backpack. The bottom panel itself hosts a wrap-around zipper to reveal the shoe pocket inside.
We found that a men’s size 12 (US) running shoe fits inside this pocket just fine, but you may struggle to fit larger shoes. Also, keep in mind that the shoe compartment shares internal space with the main compartment. Depending on how large your shoes are, you can expect maybe 40-50% of that main compartment to be taken up by your shoes.
What We Don’t Like
There are very few complaints about the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus, but the one gripe we do have is that the water bottle pockets on the side of the bag are quite small. They have absolutely no give to them, and as a result, you are limited to slim water bottles 24oz and under.
Best Backpack for Work and Gym: Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack
Modern Dayfarer v2 Backpack
Why We Chose this Backpack
Modern Dayfarer designed the V2 backpack to be your one bag for work, gym, and the occasional short trip, and we believe they succeeded in their mission. Its secret weapon is its minimalist design that sneakily hides pockets and compartments. This allows you to maintain a sleek profile during business hours without sacrificing important features.
Despite its understated design, the Modern Dayfarer V2 is jam-packed with incredible features. The main compartment is lined with pockets for clothing, toiletries, and other small items, or you can use the bottom shoe compartment to pack shoes or dirty laundry to keep smelly, soiled items away from your clean stuff. Grab handles and a luggage trolley sleeve make it a great carry-on option for flights. For a small pack, the Modern Dayfarer V2 is really like a Swiss Army knife - and a stylish one at that!
VERSATILITY DEFINED: ONE BAG FOR WORK AND GYM
Modern Dayfarer designed the V2 Backpack for people who need one bag to accommodate their busy lifestyles. For daily work carry, the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack features all of the organization you need to thrive on a busy day. Although hidden, the outside of the pack features pockets for everything from keys and a phone to larger items like headphones and small notebooks. The rear laptop compartment can fit up to a 16” Macbook Pro. Not only is this laptop compartment generously protected with a large suspended false-bottom to protect your tech from drops, but it’s protects from bad weather thanks to a water resistant YKK Aquaguard zipper.
The Shoe Compartment
We tested the shoe compartment on the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack and can confirm that it can fit a men’s size 12 (US) running shoe but the brand says it can fit up to men’s size 14 shoes just fine. This shoe compartment does share space with the main compartment so keep that in mind if you plan on using it when packing for a trip.
A neat design feature is that the main compartment is expandable by a few liters on days when you need more packing room. Simply loosen up the front strap to give the top lid room to expand upwards.
Impressive Quality
Modern Dayfarer isn’t shy about naming the materials they use in each of their bags, and once you get your hands on this backpack, it’s easy to see that they have put a lot of thought into its construction. The external construction is made with water-resistant 840D ballistic nylon, while the inside is lined with a light-colored ripstop for easy spotting of items. Everything from the magnetic Fidlock buckle to the ergonomic shoulder straps feels like top-notch quality.
The water resistance of the Modern Dayfarer V2 is also fantastic. Along with using YKK Aquaguard zippers on exposed zippers, the V2 Backpack features a top lid design that creates a protective barrier for the main compartment against rain and snow.
Unlike other travel backpacks with shoe compartments, the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack has a mature and understated design that isn’t too loud or “sporty”. Modern Dayfarer even keeps their branding simple, with just a small black logo badge on the side water bottle pocket. It’s fair to say that the Modern Dayfarer is an excellent work-to-gym backpack that still looks great at the office.
What We Don’t Like About This Backpack
One gripe we have about the Modern Dayfarer V2 is that the bottom of the bag is curved so it doesn’t allow you to set the bag on the ground with toppling over. Also, those who value a chest strap will be disappointed to find out that this bag doesn’t include one and that there is also no option to add on a chest strap or hip belt.
Other Backpacks With Shoe Pockets to Consider
1) Under Armour Triumph Sport Backpack
Under Armour does a great job at designing stylish backpacks with athletes in mind and the Triumph Sport backpack is no exception. As a gym backpack, the Triumph Sport offers great compartments daily essentials and sports gear in a sleek and streamlined design.
Not only is does this backpack include a special shoe compartment but the MOLLE webbing on the front allows for attachments of pouches to expand your storage. For those who need a bag for work or school, features such as a padded laptop sleeve and organizer pockets make the Under Armor Contain a great work to gym backpack option. If you are looking for a larger backpack with similar features then make sure to check out the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 backpack with shoe storage.
Features at a glance:
Volume: 34L
Laptop sleeve holds up to 15” MacBook Pro
Shoe compartment: Bottom access
2) Trend Urban Gym Backpack (Amazon)
Trend offers a gym backpack with shoe storage that is as stylish as it is functional with their Urban Backpack. The 35-liter main compartment has enough room for all of your daily essentials with plenty of internal pockets for must-have carry like a tablet, tech accessories and smaller personal items. For workouts or travel days, the bottom zip compartment can hold a pair of shoes or dirty laundry to keep everything nice and separate.
Features at a glance:
Large 35L main compartment for busy workouts
Available in different colors to match your style
Shoe compartment: Bottom compartment
3) Lo & Sons The Hakuba
The Hakuba is Lo & Son’s take on a traditional gym bag updated for modern carry. In fact, the Hakuba is more than just a gym backpack thanks to its convertible insert design that allows it to also be used as a travel and work backpack.
At the bottom of the backpack is where you’ll find the dedicated shoe pocket that can fit up to a men’s size 14 sneakers. This special pocket can also double as a place to store travel toiletries or a lunch. Other great features include tons of easy-access pockets, a separate 15” laptop compartment and a removable insert that expands the main compartment as needed.
Features at a glance:
Made with eco-friendly recycled poly and water-resistant zippers
Unique removable insert design that allows you to adapt the main compartment to your carry needs.
15” laptop compartment with side access
Shoe compartment: Bottom access
4) Troubadour Aero Backpack
Troubadour offers versatile work and gym bag with shoe storage with the Aero backpack. This backpack makes going from the office to the gym easier than ever with it’s built in bottom compartment and lofty main compartment for commuting gear, gym clothes and other daily essentials. We love this backpack because its stylish design and premium materials don’t scream “gym bag” while still offering all the features you need for the day ahead.
The Troubadour Aero offers a whopping 34 liters of main compartment capacity with plenty of exterior pockets for quick access to small items. If you love the look and feel of the Aero but would like a smaller size we recommend you check out the 23.5 liter Troubadour Pioneer Backpack.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 34L
Waterproof fabric and zippers
Shoe compartment is lined with antimicrobial lining to minimize smells
Discrete laptop and gym bag: Dedicated laptop sleeve, plenty of pockets plus a separate laundry/shoe compartment
Shoe compartment: Bottom compartment
5) Boundary Supply Errant Pack
The Boundary Supply Errant Pack is a versatile everyday backpack that can be used for gym days and daily commutes alike. This is thanks to its various pockets and entry points that allow for unrivaled organization and utility. Not only can you access the inside from the top but the Errant Pack also functions as a clamshell backpack thanks to its 3/4 back-access zipper. This allows for full access to all of the pockets and compartments inside the Errant Pack.
Since the Errant Pack was made to be adaptive to your needs, Boundary Supply makes sure to offer plenty of modular accessories for travel, photography and daily carry. For gym days the Errant Pack includes a shoe pocket on the bottom of the bag that can also be used to store dirty laundry.
Features at a glance:
Incredible pocket placement for maximum organization
Modular system allows you to use the Errant Pack for the gym, photography or travel
Shoe compartment: Bottom access
Alternatives to Consider
Although a separate shoe compartment is incredibly convenient, buying an entirely new backpack with a shoe compartment isn’t always necessary if you want to carry shoes.
An alternative to a backpack with a shoe pocket is a shoe bag - which gives you the same kind of seperation between your dirty shoes and the rest of your packing. Not only is this a cheaper solution to purchasing an entirely new backpack but you can use the shoe bag in multiple backpacks, luggage or just carry it solo.
There are a ton of brands that offer shoe bags but below are some of our favorites:
Peak Design Shoe Pouch - Ultralight and packable shoe bag that can fit up to 2 pairs of shoes depending on size. The Shoe Pouch compresses down into a fraction of its size when not in use.
Knack Bags Shoe Bag - Compressible shoe bag that can be adjusted to your shoe size to save space in your backpack. We like how these include an internal divider to keep shoes from rubbing against each other while packed.
Nomatic Shoe Cube - Square design allows this shoe bag to pack neatly with other packing cubes. It also has a highly durable water resistant exterior design to protect expensive shoes. Can fit up to size 12 shoes.
11 Best Waterproof Backpacks for Women - Tested and Reviewed!
We test and rate the best waterproof backpacks for women! From women’s water resistant laptop backpacks to waterproof dry bags - we have you covered!
The good news is that today there are more great waterproof backpack options than ever before!
The bad news is that for many women, finding a stylish waterproof backpack that actually fits can still be a challenge. Let's face it: a lot of backpacks are either too big and bulky or just not cute.
In this buying guide, we'll test and review the best waterproof backpacks for women based on specific criteria of fit, style and performance - you know, the stuff that really matters. Whether you are looking for the water resistant backpack for college, a go-to beach backpack or a dry bag for your next outdoor adventure, these backpacks will keep your important items safe no matter the weather forecast that day.
Left to right: Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack, Got Bag Roll-Top Lite, Skog A Kust Backsack Dry Bag
Our favorite waterproof backpacks for women:
Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack - Stylish water resistant laptop backpack for work and daily carry
Got Bag Rolltop Lite - Most versatile. Cute waterproof backpack for laptop, travel and outdoor activities
Skog A Kust Backsack - Best compact dry bag for outdoor activities
How We Picked
Waterproof and Water Resistant Construction
In this list we included a mix water resistant and waterproof backpacks for women to allow you to choose your level of protection based on your needs. For everyday use, water-resistant bags may be more than enough for commuting on rainy days. Yet those who plan on using their backpacks for outdoor activities like kayaking, conoing and fishing may may want to upgrade to a bag with waterproof fabric and technical features such as a sternum strap and attachment loops for accessories.
Water Resistant Backpacks - These backpacks are usually made with coated water repellent exterior fabric that allows water to roll off the exterior. Some advanced features include water resistant zippers, taped waterproof seams and special water resistant designs. Most people looking for a daily laptop backpack that can occasionally double as an outdoor pack would fare best here.
The features we look for:
Stylish design for work or travel
Treated water repellent fabrics
Water resistant zippers
Laptop compartments, interior pockets for daily organization
Waterproof Backpacks - Made of waterproof textiles with welded or taped seams and waterproof zippers or roll-top closures. These backpacks often have few zippers or access points for water to get into the interior of the bag and are the backpacks you want for outdoor activities near water or for heavy rain.
The features we look for:
Fully waterproof fabrics or materials
Waterproof zippers or roll-top closures
Taped or welded seams (instead of regular stitching)
Chest strap, waist straps and other technical features
Women’s Specific Fit
Although there are tons of great waterproof backpack options on the market, some women may still find them too large. That’s why, in this buying guide, we take special consideration of water resistant and waterproof backpacks that either have a women’s specific fit or were designed to comfortably fit those with smaller frames.
Rest assured that we won’t be recommending the same unisex backpacks in the color pink - we went out of our way to pick bags that will accommodate people with smaller shoulders and shorter torsos.
Best Women's Waterproof Laptop Backpacks
Troubadour Bivy Tote
If we had to choose our favorite women's water-resistant bag, this would be it! Each Bivy Tote Backpack is made with waterproof fabric and water-resistant zippers for peace of mind during daily commutes. Plus, its convertible design makes it perfect for everyday use.
Unlike other waterproof backpacks that look more at home on the trail, you won't shy away from wearing the Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack into the office or on travel days when you want to look your best. The fabric feels robust without looking too sporty, and accents like the faux-leather handles and slim shoulder straps really elevate the look.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 21L
Convertible: can be worn as a backpack or tote bag
17" Padded laptop sleeve
Lots of smaller pockets for organization!
Got Bag Daypack
Available in almost a dozen cute colors, the Got Bag Daypack is a water-resistant laptop backpack that will give you peace of mind on rainy commutes and beach days alike.
Each Got Bag Daypack is made from recycled Ocean Impact Plastic with an eco-friendly waterproof coating that is free from harmful PFC and PVC, while water-resistant zippers give the Daypack additional moisture protection. Inside, you'll find a 13" padded laptop sleeve and 11L of packing room that's perfect for daily essentials or to use on fun weekend adventures.
Its compact dimensions make the Got Bag Daypack perfect for petite women who usually find most backpacks too "tall" on the back, while the adjustable padded shoulder straps make this backpack a sure fit for a large variety of body types.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 11L
13" laptop sleeve
Available in lots of different fun colors to match your style
Compact profile for a perfect fit on shorter torsos
WANDRD PRVKE Lite
The WANDRD PRVKE Lite is a versatile camera, laptop, and travel bag with a compact footprint to better fit smaller people. Not only is it one of our favorite water-resistant backpacks for women, but it's also one of our top camera bags for women, thanks to its built-in camera cube. The waterproof tarpaulin exterior and water-resistant zippers also make it ridiculously water-resistant.
What we love about the WANDRD PRVKE Lite is that it's packed with technical features for photographers and travelers alike. The exterior attachment points allow you to carry extra items like a tripod, jacket, or blanket, while the inside is equipped with a generously padded 14" laptop sleeve, lots of space, plus a built-in camera cube that can be removed on the days you want to use the PRVKE Lite as a regular daypack.
Like the look of the WANDRD PRVKE Lite but want to go a little bigger? Check out the full-sized WANDRD PRVKE.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 11-16L (expandable roll-top)
14" padded laptop sleeve
Built-in camera cube with removable dividers
Compact design to better fit narrow shoulders and shorter torsos
Chrome Urban Ex
Chrome offers a fantastic waterproof backpack for city explorers who need a tough and reliable bag for daily use with the Urban Ex. Trust us, its heavy-duty waterproof exterior and welded waterproof seams will be an absolute lifesaver if you are ever get caught in a heavy rain during a commute (plus, it makes a great backpack for groceries and other errands).
The inside of the Chrome Urban Ex is equipped with a padded 15” laptop sleeve and extra pockets to keep you organized. The reflective attachment loops on the outside of the bag allow for storage of bike u-locks and gear while providing additional safety when commuting in low light.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L
Fully waterproof rolltop construction
15” padded laptop sleeve
Rains Rucksack
Rains is a brand that makes rain jackets and bags to survive stormy weather and their Rucksack not only will keep you dry during rainy commutes but its cute design will make sure you look great even when the weather gets bad. The 11-liter main compartment makes the Rains Rucksack a great small daypack for those who want the protection of a waterproof backpack without the bulk a large bag.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 11L
Compact profile is great for shorter torsos
Made of waterproof PU coated fabric
Internal 13” padded laptop compartment
Ortlieb Velocity PS
Heavy rain is no match for the Ortlieb Velocity PS Pack! This waterproof daypack was originally designed for bike commuting but it can used by anyone for work, school, and running errands in the city thanks to its waterproof materials and sealed seams for ultimate protection from the weather.
One of the best features of the Velocity PS is its removable laptop sleeve, which you can keep in on work/school days or take out for beach or trail trips. The backpack's roll-top closure allows you to adjust its size, making the Velocity perfect for any activity.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 17L
Made of waterproof materials with taped seams for ultimate protection against moisture
Lightweight construction (one of the lightest waterproof backpacks available!)
Slim shoulder straps and small profile gives it a female-friendly fit.
Able Carry Thirteen Daypack
The Able Carry Thirteen Daypack is perfect for women looking for a high quality water resistant laptop backpack that means business. Rainy days ahead? No problem! Each pack is made with waterproof Ripstop Nylon and is equipped with water resistant zippers for extra protection.
In addition to a 13-inch padded laptop sleeve and plenty of easy access front pockets, the Thirteen Daypack also offers a couple of sneaky secret compartments that are perfect for busy days on the metro or while traveling. The compact size of the Thirteen Daypack is also great for women who are tired of bulky laptop backpacks. In addition to a small size, the Thirteen Daypack has s-curve shaped shoulder straps for a more comfortable female fit.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 13L
Compact design to better fit shorter torsos
Made of durable ripstop nylon with water resistant zippers
13" laptop compartment
Best Outdoor Waterproof Backpacks for Women
Got Bag Rolltop Lite
It can be tough to find a cute waterproof backpack, but the Got Bag Rolltop Lite gives us hope with its minimalist design and fun color options.
What makes this backpack special is its removable 15-inch laptop compartment. This allows you to use the Got Bag Rolltop Lite as a laptop backpack on the weekdays and a waterproof adventure pack on the weekends. Other great features include a chest strap for helping with weight distribution and a large-capacity roll-top closure that can be expanded as needed.
The Got Bag Rolltop Lite is the little sister to the full-sized Got Bag Rolltop and has been redesigned with slimmer shoulder straps and a more compact profile making it the perfect waterproof backpack for women.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: Up to 26L when expanded
Removable 15" laptop sleeve
Made of recycled materials
Womens fit: Narrower shoulder straps to better fit smaller shoulders
Skog Å Kust BackSåk
Skog Å Kust, a Swedish brand renowned for their tough waterproof bags, offers the BackSåk as an ideal option for women seeking a waterproof backpack specifically for outdoor sports and activities. It features heavy-duty PVC construction, a spacious main compartment for bulky gear, and the ability to float if accidentally dropped in the water.
The 25L version of the BackSåk has a height of 16 inches, perfect for most women with shorter torsos. We found the shoulder straps to be suitable for those with narrower shoulders. If you often find most dry bags to be too large, we recommend trying the 25L Skog Å Kust BackSåk.
Available in almost a dozen colors and patterns, the Skog Å Kust BackSåk offers plenty of options to choose from.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 25L
Interior pockets for organizing important items
Tough as nails - made with a heavy 500D PVC material with welded seams that’s completely waterproof
Breakwater Supply Fogland Lite 15L
Breakwater Supply offers a high-quality, fully waterproof backpack in a small size. This dry bag uses heavy-duty, waterproof zippers to create an airtight seal, meaning it can float on water and even be submerged!
Other awesome features include interior pockets for organization, a laptop pocket, and a fully waterproof front pocket for easy access to important items. The Fogland wouldn't be complete without some technical features, too. Each pack is equipped with d-rings on the shoulder straps and reflective accents to keep you visible in low light.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 15L
Airtight and 100% waterproof: can float on water!
High quality construction
Internal laptop pocket
Exped Typhoon 15 Pack
Whether you want to be ready for the next rain storm or like to spend your weekends on the water, the Exped Typhoon 15 is the perfect option for women who need a waterproof daypack they can take on any adventure.
What we like the most about the Typhoon 15 are all of the great features on the outside of the pack. Unlike other dry bags, the Typhoon 15 includes stretchy mesh side pockets for easy access to water bottles or other smaller items. Daisy chain loops also allow you to attach additional gear during outdoor activities, while a front attachment point allows you to clip on a bike light for safety.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 15L
Fully waterproof thanks to roll-top closure and taped seams
Compact design for a better women’s fit
Made of lightweight waterproof materials for less bulk
Waterproof Backpack Features Explained
Choosing the right waterproof backpack is simple when you know which features to look out for. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through your next backpack purchase!
-
Rolltop Backpacks
Rolltop designs offer the best waterproof protection thanks to their unique “rolltop” enclosure that creates a natural seal to protect the main compartment from moisture and dust. Usually the more you can roll down the top, the tighter the seal and the better the protection.
This is why most dry bags are designed as rolltop backpacks! When coupled with waterproof fabrics a rolltop backpack is by far the best waterproofing option.
Zipper Backpacks
Most zippers that come equipped on “waterproof backpacks” are only really water resistant. This means that they can protect against light rain or splashes but are still susceptible to water seeping through in the event of heavy exposure.
When shopping for a zippered backpack make sure that the pack is constructed with special water resistant zippers over regular zippers for that added protection.
Which is better?
For everyday carry a zippered backpack may be simpler to use as there is less fiddling with extra material and buckles to access the main compartment. Simple actions like quickly grabbing a laptop in class or at the office are much easier with a single zipper.
But few zippered backpacks can match the level of waterproof protection a rolltop backpack can provide. If you are looking for a women’s waterproof backpack that will mainly used outdoors (sports, hiking, bike commuting) then we recommend with going with a rolltop for the peace of mind.
-
The first line of defense for waterproofing a backpack is with its exterior material since it is the largest surface area and where the bag is most likely to encounter moisture.
With water resistant backpacks you’ll mostly find fabrics that are coated with a waterproofing treatment so that the fabric can repel water. Dry bags and other highly waterproof backpacks may use naturally waterproof materials to make their bags watertight.
Coated Fabrics
Polyester and nylon are the two most common materials found in backpack construction. On their own they do naturally provide a little bit of protection against moisture but not nearly enough for them to offer serious protection.
As a result you’ll often see these fabrics treated with a waterproofing coating like DWR (durable water resistant), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane plastic) or PU (polyurethane) to add additional moisture protection to the fabric. These treatments act as a barrier between the fabric and the elements allowing water to bead and roll off before it has a chance to penetrate.
Waterproof Materials
Waterproof materials are any material that is itself waterproof without the need for extra treatment. The most common are materials like TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). By the way, those are just fancy terms for plastic and rubber.
Materials like TPE and PVC are usually heavier and thicker than a coated fabric. In fact, they feel more like plastic than an actual fabric but these materials are great for anyone who does activities near water and absolutely needs the protection of a dry bag. But for people who need a reliable everyday backpack, the extra weight and bulk can be overkill.
-
Even if a backpack is constructed with highly water resistant or waterproof materials there are still usually a few “weak points” that can compromise how waterproof a backpack really is. These weak points are usually found in the zippers and seams.
Zippers and seams are traditionally sewed into place leaving small holes that can lead to moisture penetration. The main difference between a “water resistant” backpack and a “waterproof” one is with their treatment of zippers and seams. The problems you’ll encounter with moisture penetration isn’t with the fabric itself (that’s usually waterproofed) but with water finding its way through the stitching.
A good waterproof backpack will mitigate these weak spots by either taping or stitching their seams to add that extra layer of protection. This is the main difference between a “water resistant” backpack (that’s usually just a regular backpack with some DWR coating sprayed on on the fabric) and an actual waterproof one.
Taped Seams
Taping a seam is a simple waterproofing method that involves fusing a waterproof tape to the sewed seams to create a waterproof seal. When coupled with waterproof fabrics this seam treatment eliminates a way for moisture to sneak into the bag.
Welded Seams
Welded seams are a step up from taped seams and can be usually be found in high end waterproof backpacks. Instead of stitching the seam and taping them to create a seal, the fabric is instead fused together with heat to create a watertight bond.
Since no thread is used in this method there are no stitching holes for water to penetrate - leaving you with a 100% waterproof seam.
More Waterproof Backpack Guides
11 Best Dirt Bike Backpacks - Trail, Motocross Backpacks
Looking for an epic dirt bike backpack? Check out our top picks for off-road riding in style.
The best dirt bike backpack should be lightweight, breathable and secure enough for riding while having all of the pockets and compartments you need for your gear. While some riders fare well with a small lightweight hydration pack with just enough pockets for their phone, keys and snacks others might need a bit more room for adventure gear like cameras and larger tool kits.
In this buying guide we take a closer look at some of the best dirt bike and motocross backpacks in a variety of sizes and styles so that you can find the best one for you.
Best Dirt Bike Backpacks
KLIM Nac Pack
The Klim Nac Pak is the best dirt bike backpack for those looking for that sweet spot between compact form and ample storage with a generous 13 liters of internal capacity and hydration bladder compatibility of up to 3L. This means that along with your hydration bladder you can easily pack your tools, snacks and other riding essentials thanks to its multiple quick-access storage compartments.
Other standout features include a molded protective goggle pocket, glove-friendly zipper pulls, and a race inspired shoulder harness strap that promotes stability and mobility while on the bike. Klim offers the Nac Pak with a Hydrapack bladder or without one if you would rather save a few bucks and use your own bladder.
Klin Nak Pack features at a glance:
Mid-sized dirt bike backpack (13L storage)
Quick access pocket for stashing goggles, cell phone, tools and snacks
Riding specific pivoting sternum strap and shoulder straps
3M Scotchlite reflective panels for safety
External shovel and probe storage
KLIM Krew Pak
We like to think of the Klim Krew Pak as the bigger brother of the best selling Nac Pac since it keeps a lot of the same great features in an upgraded size for longer rides and larger hauls. Unlike other dirt bike backpacks the Krew Pak keeps the main compartment and hydration pocket in two different zippered compartments for better seperation of your gear.
Other great pockets include a padded laptop sleeve, a protective molded sunglasses and goggle pocket, a special probe and shovel compartment and an easy-access front compartment for your tool kit and smaller items. When it comes to overall organization and intuitive pocket placement few packs outshine the Klim Krew Pak.
Klim Krew Pak features at a glance:
Large dirt bike backpack (25L storage)
Padded laptop sleeve
Adjustable sternum strap and removable padded waist belt
3M Scotchlite reflective panels for safety
Side compression straps to adjust bag size based on loadout
OGIO DAKAR 3L Hydration Pack
The Ogio Dakar is a versatile backpack that’s designed to keep you comfortable, hydrated and well-equipped while on your bike.
Along with a roomy main compartment, the separate rear hydration compartment inside the Ogio Dakar is insulated with a foil lining to keep your water cooler for longer periods of time while the back panel is made with raised molded foam panels for increased air-flow in warmer temperatures.
One feature that we really like on the Ogio Dakar is its riding-specific pivoting sternum strap and shoulder strap attachments points. Unlike static chest and waist strap setups, these pivoting attachment points promote fluid movement and a larger range of motion while riding. It’s small features like these that make the Ogio Dakar a premium dirt bike riding backpack.
Ogio Dakar features at a glance:
Mid-sized dirt bike backpack (12L storage)
3L insulated hydration compartment
Riding specific pivoting buckle sternum strap and shoulder straps
Fleece lined sunglasses/phone top pocket
EVA molded hard case front pocket
Fly Racing XC Hydro Pack
Fly Racing offers a great series of riding backpacks for both short and all-day rides with their XC Hydro Pack collection. These packs come in 3 different sizes:
XC 30 Hydro Pack (1L hydration bladder, 7L storage capacity)
XC 70 Hydro Pack (2L hydration bladder, 11L storage capacity)
XC 100 Hydro Pack (3L hydration bladder, 20L storage capacity)
Each XC Hydro Pack comes equipped with ultra-breathable shoulder straps that have large mesh sections for maximum airflow. Fly Racing also adds elastic sections to their shoulder straps and chest strap for better mobility when riding without sacrificing a secure fit.
What makes these backpacks great is that their shoulder harness is incredibly adjustable for a variety of body types both large and small. This is thanks to the various velcro adjustment points on the shoulder strap that makes it easy to accommodate riders with or without armor.
Other great features include a large buckle and long zipper pulls for gloved hands, ambidextrous hydration tube clip that be placed on either shoulder strap, and plenty of extra pockets to keep you organized.
Fly Racing XC Hydro Pack Features at a glance:
Available in 3 sizes (7L, 11L, 20L)
Chest strap harness with elastic banding for flexibility
Mesh cargo net for extra exterior storage that hides away when not in use
Chunky buckle for quick-release with gloves on
Includes Hydrapak hydration bladder
Plenty of pockets and compartments for staying organized
EVERFUN 18L Hydration Backpack
The Everfun 18L Hydration Backpack is an affordable option for budget-minded riders looking for an easy way to carry their essentials. Although the pack was designed with mountain bike riders and hikers in mind, it still makes a great dirt bike backpack thanks to its low profile design, included 2L hydration bladder, 3D foam cushioned back panel for great airflow and multiple roomy compartments for stashing gear.
You can find the hydration pocket inside the backpack’s 18-liter main compartment. At this size you’ll have plenty of room for bulkier gear like a rain jacket, tool kit and extras. The outside pockets provide additional storage and organization of smaller items such as a phone, snacks and keys.
Everfun Hydration Backpack features at a glance:
Mid-sized backpack (18L storage)
Includes 2L hydration bladder
Adjustable chest and waist straps
Breathable mesh shoulder straps and back panel
Includes special pocket with a built-in rain cover
CamelBak M.U.L.E. 100oz Mil Spec Crux
The CamelBak M.U.L.E. 100oz Mil Spec Crux is perfect for riders looking for a low profile dirt bike backpack that’s tough as nails with good organization. Although smaller in size this is a great option for those who need a sturdy pack for a hydration bladder and riding essentials on short excursions.
The Mil Spec Cruz is comprised of 3 compartments - the rear 3L hydration compartment and two zippered compartments that line the front of the bag for an additional 8L of storage. The top pocket is great for those quick-grab items you need easy access to while the bottom zippered compartment is filled with smaller pockets for easy organization of your keys, phone, wallet, snacks, tools and more.
CamelBak M.U.L.E. 100oz Mil Spec Crux features at a glance:
Small dirt bike backpack (8L cargo storage)
3L insulated hydration compartment
Adjustable chest and waist straps
Low profile design with low profile MOLLE panels for additional accessory attachments.
Made with tough 500D double-rip Cordura
KLIM Arsenal 30 Backpack
Designed specifically for adventure riding, the Klim Arsenal 30 is a large backpack for those who need to carry more than just the basics. With a 29 liter capacity this backpack is perfect for those who carry drones, cameras and bulkier items when riding.
Klim has made a few riding-specific upgraded to their Arsenal line such as reflective print on the front and sides of the bag for safety and internal side-cinch straps to reduce strap snags when riding. Another great feature is the clamshell main compartment that makes loading and unloading the bag a breeze.
Klim Arsenal 30 Backpack features at a glance:
Large dirt bike backpack (29L storage)
Separate rear 3L hydration compartment and ambidextrous hose routing
Roomy main compartment with sleeve (can be used as 15” laptop sleeve)
Chest strap and waist belt
External radio cable routing tabs
Tons of pockets throughout for great organization
USWE Raw Hydration Pack
USWE offers a compact hydration pack designed specifically for dirt bike riders with the Raw 8L Hydration Pack. Each pack comes equipped with USWE’s “No Dancing Monkey” harness system that provides zero bounce on the toughest terrains without constricting movement or breathability.
Other great features include 8 liters of storage with a 3L hydration bladder pocket plus a couple of extra storage compartments that line the front for easy-access to your gear. The pack is roomy enough for must-haves like tools, snacks, a cell phone, wallet and keys plus some other bits and bobs yet light enough to not bog you down.
The special riding harness, great pocket placement and compact design makes the USWE Raw Hydration Pack one of the best options for riders looking for an intentionally designed dirt bike or motocross backpack for carrying the essentials.
USWE Raw features at a glance
Small dirt bike backpack (8L storage)
3L hydration bladder compartment
Special zero bounce harness system with riding-specific swivel chest strap
Tool compartment with wrench straps
Lightweight and compact design
EVOC Stage Technical Backpack 18L
Although originally designed for mountain bike riders, the EVOC Stage Technical Backpack is a roomy mid-sized backpack that also performs great on the dirt bike trail thanks to its advanced ventilation air flow back panel, versatile top and bottom shoulder straps adjustments and great pocket placement for dirt bike and motocross essentials.
The EVOC Stage has a generous 18 liters of capacity that’s perfect for carrying bulkier items like a larger tool kit, first aid kit and rain jacket with plenty of smaller compartments for organizing your phone, keys, wallet and snacks. A hydration bladder hooks right into a rear hydration compartment while front pockets provide additional organization of smaller items you need quick access to.
EVOC Stage features at a glance:
Mid-sized riding backpack (18L storage)
2L hydration bladder compatible
Chest strap and hip belt
Free flow contact back panel for max ventilation
Full face helmet clips on to front of backpack
CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 Hydration Pack
The CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 Hydration Pack 100 oz is another mountain bike backpack that also doubles as a great dirt bike and motocross backpack and its easy to why once you delve into all of its features. This hydration backpack was designed to keep riders cool with its lightweight and breathable 3D vent mesh shoulder harness and CamelBak’s own Air Support Back Panel that allows for maximum ventilation on the hottest points of your back while riding.
The pocket and compartment placement on the M.U.L.E. 12 are great for dirt bike riders who want to keep their kit organized. Along with a rear 3L hydration compartment the M.U.L.E. 12 also includes a main compartment and an additional organizer compartments that give you the organization you need of everything from tools to snacks. All of these great features are contained in a lightweight and low-profile footprint that’s perfect for trail riding.
CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 Features at a glance:
Small riding backpack (9L storage)
3L hydration bladder
Adjustable chest strap with removable waist strap
Magnetic hydration tube catch on shoulder strap
Special CamelBak ventilated back panel to allow maximum ventilation
Tons of compartments and pockets for organizing riding gear
SHARKMOUTH Molle Hydration Backpack
The Sharkmouth MOLLE Hydration Backpack is the dirt bike backpack for those looking for a cheaper hydration option with a small and lightweight profile. The hydration compartment can fit up to a 3 liter bladder and is insulated to keep your water cool on longer rides.
As for extra storage, this backpack provides a front zippered pocket to safely stash essentials such as a phone, keys and wallet while a mesh pocket gives you the ability to securely stash away gloves or a small tool kit. All in all the Sharkmouth MOLLE Hydration Backpack is perfect for riders who need to bring just the essentials on rides without the bulk (or price) of a larger pack.
Sharkmouth features at a glance:
Small dirt bike hydration backpack
Insulated 2L hydration bladder compartment
Extra front pocket for essentials
Lightweight and compact
Adjustable chest and waist straps
Breathable padded back panel
MOLLE webbing front panel
Our Favorite Dirt Bike and Motocross Backpack Brands
KLIM
KLIM is a brand that specializes in advanced technical riding gear and apparel and their line of backpacks are some of the best dirt bike backpacks on the market today. Where KLIM bags really shine is in their riding-specific designs that have all the right compartments for off-road gear like tool kits and goggles.
Whether you are looking for a small hydration bag or a larger dirtbike bookbag for longer rides you’ll find the perfect one with KLIM.
USWE
USWE is a Swedish brand that specializes in bounce free action backpacks thanks to their special NDM (“No Dancing Monkey”) harness technology that virtually eliminates all bag movement without constricting body movement. This harness technology is what sets USWE apart from other dirt bike backpacks and what makes their packs some of the best on the market.
CamelBak
Although not specifically made for the dirt bike and motocross riders, it still holds true that CamelBak offers some of the best hydration backpacks in the game. Their hiking and cycling packs all come equipped with chest straps and waist belts as a standard so you know you are getting a pack that stays secure while riding.
What we like most about CamelBak hydration backpacks is their lightweight designs and emphasis on cooling technology on the back panels and shoulder straps for maximum breathability and comfort. This counts for a lot during hot weather riding where the bulk adds up. We recommend packs that have CamelBak’s Air Support™ Back Panels that put an emphasis on airflow if keeping cool is a priority.
How to Choose a Dirt Bike Backpack
Although we can recommend our favorite dirt bike and motocross backpacks the truth is that finding the perfect riding backpack comes down to personal preference and individual needs. The ideal backpack size, harness design and pocket placement all vary from rider to rider.
Keep reading below for a few pointers on determining your perfect pack and what details to look out for when choosing.
Keep Reading - How to Choose a Dirt Bike Backpack
1) Determine Your Backpack Size
We can split up dirtbike backpacks into 3 size categories: small, medium and large
Small Hydration Pack (Under 9L)
Small hydration packs keep it simple by providing just enough storage room for a hydration bladder and one or two other small pockets for essentials such as keys, a wallet, phone and a few tools.
These backpacks are best for riders who just need to carry a few key items for shorter rides and would prefer the bag to have a smaller footprint. A good small dirt bike or motorcross backpack will be light enough for you to forget it’s even on your back when riding.
What fits in a Small Dirt Bike Backpack:
Hydration bladder
Cell phone, keys and wallet
Bike Registration/Permit
Snacks
A Few Tools
Mid-Sized Backpack (10-19L)
Most riders will land in mid-sized backpack territory when purchasing a dirt bike backpack since they will still be lightweight enough for riding with the benefit of extra packing compartments. Here is where you’ll see special pockets and compartments for bike tools and larger main compartments that can fit bulkier items like a windproof jacket.
Think of a mid-sized backpack as the “Goldilocks” of dirt bike backpack sizes - not too big and not too small.
What fits in a Mid-Sized Dirt Bike Backpack:
Hydration Bladder
Cell phone, keys, wallet
Bike Registration/Permit
Snacks
Tool Kit
Compact Tire Gauge and Air Pump
First Aid Kit
Lightweight Jacket
Large Backpack (20L+)
For dirt bike riders we consider a large backpack to be any capacity over 20L. Here is where you’ll start to see more spacious main compartments much like the ones you find in school bookbags (we like the sound of dirtbike bookbag). This means more room for bulkier gear like camera gear, drones and larger tools.
What fits in a Large Dirt Bike Backpack:
Everything that fits in a Mid-Sized backpack above
Camera and Drone Gear
Extra Clothes
More Tools
2) Hydration Bladder Compatible
One of the most important features on an off-road backpack is its hydration bladder compatibility. Using a hydration bladder makes staying hydrated while on the trail a million times easier than carrying water bottles. With a hydration tube ready to go you are more likely to take a sip and you can do it without having to fiddle with your backpack while on the bike.
Just about every dirt bike backpack worth its salt has a built-in hydration bladder sleeve and many brands even include a hydration bladder and tube with the pack.
3) Make Sure it’s a Secure Fit
At a minimum a dirt bike backpack should have a chest strap. And a waist belt. You should have one of those too.
Since you’ll be riding at high speeds it’s incredibly important that the backpack stays secure to your body. Chest straps and waist belts prevent the bag from bouncing around and just provide a much more enjoyable riding experience than a backpack without.
You can also opt-in for a dirt bike specific pivoting harness. A pivoting harness combine the benefits of a chest and waist straps into one simple pivoting buckle that increases movement and mobility when riding while still keeping the backpack secure. Brands like USWE and KLIM both offer dirt bike backpacks with pivoting harnesses.
4) Say No To Flapping Straps
What’s a flapping strap? It’s any unwieldy strap that just flows in the wind while you ride. You usually get these at the end of the shoulder strap or with hip belts and compression straps.
This is where going with a dirt bike specific backpack over a generic hiking backpack really pays off. Dirt bike and motocross backpacks are designed with off-road riding in mind and make it a point to minimize dangling straps that can get caught on something accidentally while riding.
11 Best Backpacks for Groceries - Cycling and Walking Grocery Backpack
Find the best backpack for groceries with this helpful buying guide! We review tough and spacious backpacks that are perfect for your next grocery haul.
Living close to a grocery store allows you the benefit of quick stops on foot or bike. But unfortunately carrying multiple heavy bags home by hand isn’t so convenient. This is where using a backpack for groceries comes in!
In this buying guide we’ll help you find the best grocery backpack that’s tough, roomy and comfortable enough for your next trip to the grocery store.
We split our grocery backpack recommendations into two sections:
The Large and Heavy Duty backpacks are the biggest and best backpacks for groceries we could find while the Mid-Sized and Lightweight section features lightweight backpacks for smaller grocery hauls.
Using the expandable Timbuk2 Parker Commuter as a backpack for groceries
What to Look for in a Grocery Backpack
The elephant in the room is that there are very few “grocery backpacks” on the market. Maybe a brand has designed one but we couldn’t find many backpacks thats sole purpose is to haul groceries at the time of publishing. Instead what we focus on here are backpacks that can be repurposed for comfortable carry of groceries.
With that said we have narrowed down our options to backpacks that meet the following criteria:
A big open main compartment
Comfortable shoulder harness with chest and/or waist straps to help with load distribution.
Heavy duty construction that can take on some weight.
Read more about our grocery backpack criteria
1) A Big Open Main Compartment
A large open compartment is a must for a grocery backpack so we focused on featuring backpacks that didn’t have too many extra pockets inside the main compartment.
We used half gallons cartons to test a lot of these bags. They are bulky, heavy and give a good reference point for size since most people are familiar with milk cartons.
Between 30 and 40 liters seems to be the sweet spot for a weekly grocery haul for one or two people with an expandable or roll top backpack that can add more room as you need it being the ideal.
Along with having a roomy main compartment you want it be easy to clean in case of accidental spills. This is where we are partial to Chrome and Ortlieb backpacks because their main compartments aren’t lined with fabric so they can be easily wiped down if needed.
The Chrome Barrage Cargo can fit two half-gallon cartons inside its cargo net
2) Ergonomic and Comfortable Under Weight
We feature backpacks that have good ergonomic designs for their shoulder harness and back panels. Groceries can get heavy and thin shoulder straps just aren’t going to cut it. A semi-rigid back panel is a bonus to prevent awkward grocery items from poking you in the back.
Mission Workshop includes load lifters with their shoulder straps in their larger backpacks - these are small straps at the top of the back panel that helps stabilize heavy loads. It’s features like these add up to comfortable wear when hauling groceries.
Making sure you choose a backpack with a sternum strap and waist belt is important when picking out a grocery backpack. As the load gets heavier you will need a way to redistribute the weight evenly to help prevent that weight from just sitting on your shoulders. This is especially true with larger backpacks over 25 liters.
Heavy duty construction on display: The Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City has bolted on shoulder straps
3) Heavy-Duty Construction
Our top picks are judged primarily by their construction quality because a grocery backpack needs to be heavy duty enough to take on heavy awkward loads like milk cartons and soup cans. We can’t afford a backpack that runs the risk of tearing under load because of cheap construction quality.
Some of the large and heavy duty backpacks recommend on this list are on the pricer side but that’s only because they take their construction quality seriously. These backpacks don’t skimp corners.
In our search we were partial to a few backpack brands that checked off much of our criteria - Mission Workshop, Chrome Industries, Timbuk2 and Ortlieb. These brands design some great bags for bike commuters and put emphasis on strong reliable construction and ergonomic design which is exactly what we want in a backpack for groceries.
The Chrome Urban Ex 30L as a grocery backpack (shown with 3 half-gallon milk cartons inside)
A Word on Shopping Carts
If you need to regularly haul a lot of heavy groceries and walking is your main mode of transportation then you are probably better off with a good old fashioned utility shopping cart. Shopping carts are relatively lightweight and can conveniently fold up for easy storage. You can usually grab one on Amazon and it will last you years of use.
For those who rely on a bicycle for transportation or don’t have to haul as many groceries - going hands free with a backpack may be a better choice.
Best Grocery Backpacks - Large and Heavy Duty
Mission Workshop The Rambler
The Rambler by Mission Workshop is one of our favorite expandable backpacks and its easy to see why once you dive into all of its features.
This American made backpack goes from 22L to 44L using an expandable zipper design that can be deployed in seconds. And because small footprint when compressed, the Rambler can be used as a sleek daily work or school backpack and then expanded to fit your groceries on your commute home. An internal frame sheet, chest strap, side compression straps and shoulder strap load lifters all work together to offer comfortable carry of heavy groceries.
Need more room for groceries? Check out the Mission Workshop Vandal with its insane 29-65L expandable capacity.
Chrome Barrage Frieght
What sets the Chrome Barrage series of backpacks apart are their bombproof heavy-duty construction and internal TPE tarp liner that not only offers waterproof protection but makes the main compartment easy to clean in case of an accidental spill. The exterior cargo net is also incredibly versatile and it can easily carry anything from a frozen pizza box to a six pack of beer.
The Chrome Barrage series of backpacks comes in three different sizes
Chrome Barrage Cargo (18-22L)
Chrome Barrage Freight (34-38L)
Chrome Barrage Pro (80L)
We recommend going with the Barrage Freight for grocery carry because of its larger capacity and extra support with the included shoulder strap load lifters. You can also check out our Chrome Barrage Cargo review for a closer look at the smaller Cargo size.
Read more about the Chrome Barrage series
The Chrome Barrage series of backpacks are one of our top picks for anyone looking for a reliable grocery backpack for its heavy-duty construction, wide open roll-top main compartment and useful exterior net for extra cargo.
The main compartments of these backpacks are perfect for grocery hauls as it’s just one big open compartment with a single slip pocket that stays flat when not in use.
Below is a photo of the interior of the Chrome Barrage Cargo backpack which has an internal capacity of up to 22 liters. We recommend sizing up to the Chrome Barrage Freight for larger grocery hauls.
Chrome Barrage Cargo 22L main compartment lined with heavy-duty TPE Tarp
The exterior cargo net is the Barrage’s standout feature. The 5-point attachments makes it super easy to strap in extra items that would take up too much room inside the main compartment.
The Chrome Barrage Cargo’s exterior cargo net can hold two half-gallon milk cartons
One con worth considering if using as a backpack for groceries is that these bags are heavier than most with the smallest Barrage Cargo weighing 3lbs when empty and the Barrage Freight weighing 4.7lbs respectively. They are made with a heavy-duty 1050D nylon and are lined with 500D TPE tarp - two ultra-tough yet thick and weighty materials.
Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack
We are big fans of the Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack as a groceries backpack for its expandable main compartment, versatile design and fantastic quality.
The main compartment goes from 26L to 35L using an expansion zipper that takes seconds to deploy. This design is perfect for those looking for a backpack for groceries that can also double as their daily pack for work or school. When compressed, the Parker Commuter offers a slim profile with great features such as a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets for daily items.
When it comes to comfort features, the Timbuk2 Parker Commuter has everything you could want in a grocery backpack - a generously padded back panel, cushy shoulder straps and both a chest strap and waist belt for added comfort when hauling heavy loads.
Read more about the Timbuk2 Parker
The Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack was designed with cyclists in mind and you can see this throughout its tapered design, comfort features and reflective panels for safety on the road in low light.
Timbuk2 Parker Commuter back panel and shoulder harness
The Parker Commuter offers a hefty shoulder harnesses and back panel with a raised cushioned back panel that prevents awkward poking from grocery items inside the bag as well as both a chest strap and waist belt for better weight distribution. It’s comfort features like these that makes the Parker Commuter a great grocery backpack for bikers.
Inside the Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack (with 3 half-gallon milk cartons)
Like many work/school commuter backpacks, the compressed 26L main compartment is roomy enough to accommodate everyday items while still keeping a low profile. We found that you could still fit three half-gallon milk cartons at the bottom of the main compartment when compressed.
The Timbuk2 Parker Commuter expanded and fully loaded with groceries
The magic happens when you expand the Parker Commuter backpack to its full 35L capacity. The main compartment will taper outward to allow you to fit heavier groceries the bottom and lighter stuff like pasta boxes and vegetables at the top. This tapered design allows for more comfortable cycling when in the riding position.
Ortlieb Messenger Bag
The Ortlieb Messenger-Bag is a large 39L waterproof commuter backpack that means business.
This backpack is a nice mix of lightweight and tough which is perfect for loading groceries. The shoulder straps on the Ortlieb Messenger-Bag are bolted on to ensure durability under heavy weights - in fact each Messenger-Bag is rated for a max load of 30.9lbs. A chest strap and waist belt also helps with weight distribution. Inside you’ll find a very generous large open unlined main compartment that’s easy to wipe down in the event of accidental spillage.
Chrome Urban Ex 30L Backpack
The Chrome Urban Ex has long been ranked as one of our favorite roll top waterproof backpacks and it performs surprisingly well as a grocery backpack thanks to its versatile features. Let’s list some of the ways the Chrome Urban Ex makes a backpack for groceries:
The main compartment is just one large deep open area with few pockets to get in the way
The roll top design allows you to adjust the bag’s size to your grocery load
It’s built like a tank plus it’s completely waterproof - you won’t have to worry about rips or tears under load.
The Chrome Urban Ex comes in a 30 liter size (we recommend this size if you haul bulkier items) and a 20 liter size (go with this one if you prefer a more compact bag).
Read more about the Chrome Urban Ex
The Chrome Urban Ex is made with a tough 600D polyester textile with a PU coating for water resistance. The knurled welded construction keeps water from finding its way into the bag and is the special sauce that makes the Urban Ex waterproof.
The shoulder straps are adequately padded and when combined with the adjustable chest strap provides great support under heavier loads. In fact, Chrome has recently redesigned their shoulder harness for improved comfort.
The Chrome Urban Ex 30L can fit 3 half-gallon milk cartons at the bottom of its main compartment with a lot more room to spare.
Inside the Chrome Urban Ex you’ll find an admin panel with a padded laptop sleeve and pockets for smaller items. When used as a backpack for groceries, this panel is non-intrusive and stays against the wall of the main compartment so that you can utilize its full capacity.
The Chrome Urban Ex backpack’s roll top design in action
One of our favorite features of the Chrome Urban Ex is its expandable roll top design that allows you to adjust the bag’s size to your load. For groceries the main compartment functions a lot like a very large paper bag allowing you to stack your grocery items neatly inside.
Got Bag Rolltop
Available in over a dozen fun colors, the Got Bag Rolltop is a laptop backpack that can double a grocery backpack thanks to its removable padded laptop sleeve panel to maximize internal space on shopping days.
The rolltop design allows you to expand or compress the bag size according to your load while a waterproof construction offers protection from the elements. We found that the slick TPU lined interior is easy to clean in case of accidental spills which is a huge bonus when using a backpack for groceries.
Got Bag offers the full-sized Rolltop Backpack (31L) and the smaller Rolltop Lite (26L) that features narrower shoulder straps to better fit smaller people. Between the unlimited color options and different sizes to dial in the perfect fit - you are sure to find one you’ll love!
Mission Workshop The Fitzroy
The Fitzroy by Mission Workshop is a great option for anyone looking for a large rucksack that can be reliably used as a grocery backpack when needed.
The spacious main compartment gives you 40 liters of packing room with the ability to add more room in a pinch with the flap fully extended. For carrying heavier loads, The Fitzroy is equipped with an internal frame sheet back panel and padded shoulder straps with adjustable load lifters and a chest strap for dialing in comfortable carry under load. Mission Workshop also offers a padded waist belt that can be purchased separately if needed.
Each Mission Workshop backpack is made in the USA with mil-spec construction for years of reliability. The brand constructs some of the toughest backpacks on the market and The Fitzroy is no exception.
Best Backpacks for Groceries - Mid-Sized and Lightweight
Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City
If you are looking for a tough yet lightweight backpack for groceries with a small footprint then we couldn’t recommend the Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City enough.
The Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City features a completely waterproof construction thanks to its taped seems, a durable nylon construction with a reinforced bottom, bolted on shoulder straps for extra peace of mind under load and only weighs 26.5 oz for strong yet lightweight carry.
What makes this backpack special is its completely removable padded laptop sleeve. When removed you’ll have access to a wide open “bucket style” main compartment that’s perfect for groceries and easy to wipe down in case of accidental spills. The roll top design also makes it simple to adjust the backpack size to your grocery load.
Read more about the Ortlieb Commuter Daypack City
Ortlieb is a German brand that specializes in waterproof cyclist bags and the Commuter-Daypack City was their answer for the busy urban commuter who needs a reliable and versatile bag they can take anywhere.
Inside the Ortlieb Commuter Daypack City 21L main compartment (shown with 2 half-gallon cartons)
The removable laptop sleeve panel makes it easy to switch between daily work/school carry and errands like grocery shopping by giving you an open “bucket-style” main compartment to load grocery items with ease.
Its completely waterproof and lightweight construction also makes the Commuter-Daypack City a great option for outdoor adventures outside of the city and since it weighs only 26.5oz you can easily pack the Commuter-Daypack City on longer trips.
Heavy duty bolted shoulder straps and ribbed foam back panel on the Ortlieb Commuter Daypack City
When it comes to comfort, the shoulder straps on the Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City are not as thickly padded as some of the other grocery backpacks on this list but when combined with the chest strap and waist belt this backpack surprisingly provides comfortable carry under heavy weight. The back panel is made out of cushioned foam strips that also do a great job under load and are raised enough to prevent pokes from any awkwardly shaped the items inside.
Harber London TotePack
Harber London is the maker of some of our favorite work backpacks for men due to their sophisticated designs and handcrafted construction. With the TotePack, the brand offers an attractive yet sensible design that surprisingly makes a great backpack for groceries thanks to its large open bucket-style main compartment that makes packing bulkier items a breeze.
We have to admit that the Harber London TotePack isn’t for everyone. It has a high end construction and a matching price-point. But for those looking for a sophisticated look - we can’t recommend the Harber London TotePack enough. Every detail is meticulously considered giving you a handsome backpack for work, travel and even runs to the grocery store.
Read more about the Harber London TotePack
Each Harber London backpack is handmade in Spain by expert craftsman and you can see the care put into each Totepack thanks to its use of full grain leather, rugged water resistant textiles and aviation grade aluminum buckles and metal hardware.
The interior is made up of one very roomy 22-liter main compartment that features a padded laptop and tablet sleeve that discreetly stays out of the way when not in use making it perfect for packing bulkier items like groceries. We could easily fit 3 half-gallon cartons of milk at the bottom of the backpack with room to spare on the floor.
Inside the Harber London TotePack
You can wear the Harber London TotePack as a backpack or carry it as a tote bag on lighter days. The leather shoulder straps are very comfortable thanks to a cushioned foam backing that prevents the straps from cutting into your shoulder under weight.
Unfortunately, the Harber London TotePack does not include a chest strap or waist belt to help with weight redistribution. This is a major reason why we did not include it with our heavy duty backpacks above. But for lighter loads and quick grocery trips - the Harber London TotePack shines by offering a very roomy main compartment and a handsome design that will definitely gain some compliments when worn.
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack
The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack offers a super lightweight yet roomy backpack that gives you the versatility you need for impromptu shopping trips after work. Along with having to the ability to convert to a tote bag when needed, the Black Hole Tote Pack is also stuffable and can compress down into its own pocket for easy transport when not in use.
The 27 liter main compartment is large enough for grocery carry while still allowing for a compact profile when worn. The main compartment is wide open with just a small pocket for essentials so that you can take advantage of the full capacity inside.
Timbuk2 Tuck Laptop Backpack
The Timbuk2 Tuck Laptop Backpack is a lightweight pack known for its reliability and versatility. A side-access laptop sleeve and internal admin panel makes organizing daily carry a breeze while its expandable main compartment gives you the room you need for quick grocery trips on your way home.
It’s internal capacity can be adjusted between 20-26 liters thanks to its classic rolltop design that can compress and expand to fit your load.
Timbuk2 offers the Tuck in a variety of great colors and even gives you the option to design your own in their custom shop. If you are looking for a reliable rolltop for groceries that can also be used for daily carry and travel then the Tuck just might be what you are looking for.
11 Best Beach Backpacks - Cooler, Mesh and Waterproof Backpacks for the Beach
Life is better at the beach with these handpicked backpacks! We review the best beach backpacks in a variety a styles for your next relaxing day in the sand.
Whether you are planning a quick day trip or an extended beach vacation, having the right beach backpack can make your days in the sun all that much more enjoyable.
In this buying guide we review the best beach backpacks you can use this summer! From beach cooler backpacks to versatile waterproof daypacks that you can take into town - we have you covered!
Types of Beach Backpacks
The perfect backpack for the beach can come in different shapes and sizes. Deciding which type is the best for you depends on your carry needs. Here are a few different types of beach backpacks, each with their own special features.
TYR Big Mesh Mummy - mesh beach backpack
Mesh Beach Backpacks
Mesh backpacks are often the go-to beach backpack and its easy to see why. Their mesh construction allows water and sand to pass through the mesh webbing for less mess when storing gear such as beach toys and towels. Most mesh backpacks are also very lightweight and easy to fold and stow away in the off-season or while traveling.
We recommend a mesh beach backpack to families who carry lots of toys, snorkeling gear and multiple towels and who only need to use their backpacks specifically for beach or pool days.
Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll-Top Pack - lightweight beach backpack
Lightweight & Waterproof Beach Backpacks
These backpacks are versatile everyday backpacks that thrive on near the water thanks to their roomy open compartments, water resistant or waterproof materials and simple construction that allows for easier cleaning of sand and dirt after a long day of soaking up rays.
We recommend these packs to those who need a beach backpack that can also be used for travel or an afternoon on the town.
Coleman Soft Cooler - beach cooler backpack
Beach Cooler Backpacks
A cooler backpack for the beach consists of one special compartment that is insulated to keep beverages and food chilled.
We recommend beach cooler backpacks to anyone who spends long days on the beach and need a convenient way to carry their food and beverages while keeping them nice and cool. Cooler backpacks are much easier to carry than large clunky coolers and can provide extra storage for additional gear.
Best Beach Backpacks
TYR Big Mesh Mummy Backpack
The TYR Big Mesh Mummy is a large beach backpack that means business. Perfect for those who love to stay active on the beach, the Big Mesh Mummy’s massive 40 liter main compartment is large enough to store snorkeling gear, beach games and multiple towels and blankets. Pockets on the front also gives you extra organization for smaller must-haves like sunscreen and water bottles.
Read more about the TYR Big Mesh Mummy
What makes the TYR Big Mesh Mummy the best backpack for the beach?
Massive 40L main compartment for large and bulky beach items
Mesh construction allows sandy and wet items to be stored inside
Lightweight and packable when not in use
Available in a ton of fun colors
The TYR Big Mesh Mummy backpack consists of one large 40-liter main compartment and two smaller pockets on the front for holding smaller items.
The massive main compartment is large enough to hold multiple beach towels, snorkeling gear, beach toys and games. While the smaller pockets on the front of the bag are great spots for your water bottles, wallet, sunglasses, sunscreen and other smaller beach essentials that you need fast and easy access to.
The mesh construction makes the TYR Big Mesh Mummy super easy to keep clean and sand-free. Storing wet items inside this backpack is also possible as the mesh walls provide needed airflow for drying while on the move.
We recommend the TYR Big Mesh Mummy as a mesh beach backpack for families thanks to its large internal capacity and lightweight mesh design that makes cleaning and storing the pack simple and easy.
The Ridge Classic Backpack Weatherproof
The Ridge offers a rugged and waterproof backpack in a timeless design that’s perfect for both beach days and nights in town. This backpack is constructed with a waterproof nylon shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers for peace of mind near the shoreline.
Need to charge your phone mid-day? No problem, each Classic Backpack comes equipped with a built-in USB charging port.
Read more about the Ridge Classic Backpack
What makes the Ridge Classic the best beach backpack?
Weatherproof design made with waterproof nylon material and zippers
Integrated USB port for charging on right on the beach!
Great pocket placement
Versatile design - perfect as a travel daypack
The Ridge Classic Backpack is a great option if you are looking for a backpack for the beach that can also be used as a travel daypack. Each Classic Backpack is equipped with a padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet, an external USB charging port and plenty of pockets throughout for all of your gear.
As a beach backpack, the Ridge Classic offers the comfort and utility of a daily backpack with added waterproof protection and a rugged nylon construction. This makes it a great choice for beach days, day hikes and other outdoor activities.
Its waterproof nylon shell and interior liner makes the Ridge Classic incredible easy to clean from sand and dirt after a long day on the beach. The main compartment is large enough to stash a beach towel, change of clothes, frisbee or sandals. You also have plenty of pockets throughout for items like portable bluetooth speakers, sunscreen and water bottles.
Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack
The Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack is the perfect beach cooler backpack thanks to its roomy insulated main compartment that can hold up to 28 cans and side and front pockets that give you extra packing room for beach must-haves like sunscreen, reusable water bottles and sunglasses.
Read more about the Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack
What makes the Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack the best beach backpack?
Roomy insulated cooler main compartment
Waterproof welded seams to prevent leaks
Padded shoulder straps and hip belt for comfort even when the backpack gets heavy
Extra front and side pockets for quick access to smaller items
Affordable price (you can usually grab one under $40)
Inside the insulated compartment of the Coleman beach cooler backpack
The Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack is a the perfect solution for anyone who wants to enjoy chilled beverages and food on the beach but doesn’t want to burdened with carrying a larger cooler. This beach cooler backpack solution makes lugging your food and drinks comfortable and easy thanks to its padded shoulder straps and adjustable padded hip belt.
The main compartment on the Coleman Soft Cooler backpack is lined with insulation and heat-welded to prevent leaks. Load this backpack up with ice and cold drinks for a fun day in the sun!
Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Bag
Speedo offers an affordable mesh beach backpack with a lightweight quick-drying construction that is easy to pack away when not in use. The main compartment is large enough to easily fit larger items such as snorkeling sets, multiple beach towels and beach toys while also including a separate zippered pocket for safe storage of smaller beach day essentials.
Read more about the Speedo Deluxe Ventilator
What makes the Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Bag a great beach backpack?
Large 33L main compartment fits bulky beach gear
Made of lightweight polyester and quick drying mesh material
Foldable and packable when not in use
Exterior YKK zippered pocket for organizing smaller items
Affordable price (you can usually grab one for under $25)
The main compartment on the Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Bag is large enough to store two sets of snorkeling gear or multiple beach towels, rash guards, beach toys and games. A zippered pocket on the front gives you additional organization for smaller items such as sunscreen, sunglasses and phone for safekeeping.
Exped Splash 15 Waterproof Backpack
The Exped Splash 15 is a compact and waterproof backpack that’s perfect for those who love to stay active on the beach. The PU coated recycled nylon and rolltop design allows for maximum protection against water while the 15 liter internal capacity gives you enough room for plenty of beach essentials.
When not in use you can roll up the Exped Splash 15 and stuff it inside a bike bag or pants pocket for quick and easy transport!
Read more about the Exped Splash 15
What makes the Exped Splash 15 such a great beach backpack?
15L capacity is perfect for beach day essentials
Waterproof materials and taped seam construction
Lightweight packable design allows for easy storage while traveling
Available in a bunch of fun colors
Made of recycled eco-friendly materials
REI Co-op Cool Trail Split Pack Cooler
The Cool Trail Split Pack by REI is versatile enough to be used as a beach cooler backpack and regular beach day backpack thanks to its cooler insert and unique split-top design that allows for easy access to both beach items and drinks.
Want to make more room in the backpack? Remove the cooler insert to utilize up to 31.5 liters of internal packing capacity!
Read more about the REI Cool Trail Split Pack
What makes the REI Cool Trail Split Pack such a great backpack cooler for the beach?
31.5 liters of internal capacity - perfect for family beach days
Split-top design allows you to keep beach items and cooler in separate compartments
Includes removable leakproof insulated cooler insert.
Cushioned shoulder straps and adjustable sternum strap for all-day comfort
Attachment straps on front of the bag for beach towels and blankets
The REI Co-op Cool Trail Split Pack Cooler is one of our favorite cooler backpacks thanks to its versatile design that allows you to configure the bag to the way you carry. The split-top design allows for easy access to your drinks and gear thanks to the two separate access zippers. On days where you need to carry more you can also remove the cooler insert all-together to take full advantage of the roomy 31.5L internal capacity.
The four straps on the front of the backpack makes attaching oversized items such as a beach blanket or a lightweight beach chair possible. The two side stretch pockets are also great for stashing sunglasses, sunscreen and other beach day essentials. All of these features and more are what makes the Cool Trail Split Pack such a great backpack cooler for the beach.
Eastsport XL Mesh Backpack
The Eastsport XL Mesh Backpack is perfect for anyone looking for a traditional backpack in a beach-friendly design. Leave the sand on the beach! A quick drying mesh construction prevents sand from accumulating inside the backpack and padded shoulder straps allows for comfortable all day wear.
Read more about the Eastsport XL
What makes the Easton XL a great mesh beach backpack?
Affordable price
Roomy main compartment with smaller pockets for organization
Padded adjustable shoulder straps (instead of thin straps)
Webbing on front for storage of additional items
Unlike other mesh beach backpacks, the Easton XL Mesh Backpack keeps the features we love about traditional backpacks such as padded adjustable shoulder straps, extra pockets for organizing smaller items and traditional side water bottle pockets.
The mesh construction is perfect for the beach, pool or water park as it offers a breathable environment for wet items to dry while on the move. No more wet and stinky backpack pockets!
Patagonia Fieldsmoth Roll Top Pack
Equipped with a water resistant DWR finish and an impressive 30 liters of internal capacity, the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack is the perfect beach-day backpack for those who want an easy way to haul their gear.
The roomy main compartment is large enough for beach towels and blankets, snorkeling sets and a frisbee while the recycled polyester construction makes keeping the backpack clean of dirt and sand after a long day on the beach a simple task.
Read more about the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top
What makes the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack the best backpack beach bag?
Water resistant materials for peace of mind
Large roomy 30 liter roll top design that expands as you need it
Lightweight construction that’s easy to keep clean yet rugged enough for outdoor adventures
Made of eco-friendly recycled materials and Fair Trade Certified™ sewn
After getting our hands on the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack it’s been our go-to backpack for fun adventures outdoors. It’s no-fuss rolltop design allows us to compress and expand the size of the backpack as needed. Plus its recycled polyester construction means the Fieldsmith Roll Top is easy to keep clean and lightweight enough to pack full without worry.
Available in multiple colors and fun patterns, the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack is great for anyone looking for a cute beach backpack that can be taken into town after a long day in the sand.
Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack
The Matador Freerain22 is an ultralight waterproof backpack that compresses for easy storage while traveling. This backpack was constructed specifically for wet outdoor activities and features a 100% waterproof main compartment for peace of mind when out on the water.
We recommend the Freerain22 as a beach backpack for those who want a high quality, thoughtfully engineered backpack that they can be confident taking virtually anywhere.
Read more about the Matador Freerain22
What makes the Matador Freerain22 a great backpack for the beach?
Roomy 22 liter internal capacity
100% waterproof main compartment
Best in class technical construction and materials
Gear loops for storage of oversized items
Compressible for travel
The Matador Freerain22 beach backpack for men who want more from their gear than just a stylish design. This backpack was made for travelers who find themselves in wet conditions - hiking, surfing, boating, kayaking. The compressible design allows the Freerain22 to fold into the size of a t-shirt for easy packing to and from destinations. With a completely waterproof main compartment, advanced engineered high-tech materials and a sleek design, the Matador Freerain22 might actually be the ultimate mens beach backpack.
Columbia PFG Insulated Cooler Backpack
Columbia offers an insulated cooler backpack for the beach and more with their PFG Roll Caster. The large insulated main compartment can fit up to 30 cans while various extra pockets and the exterior bungee cord allows you to store additional beach items in style.
What makes the Columbia PFG Insulated Cooler Backpack special is its Slime-Tech technology exterior that protects the backpack from gunk, muck and dirt - keeping your backpack clean and ready for storage when not in use.
Read more about the Columbia PFG Cooler Backpack
What makes the Columbia PFG Roll Caster a great backpack for the beach?
Leakproof insulated main compartment can hold up to 30 cans
Padded mesh back panel and shoulder straps for breathable comfort in warm weather
Includes a bonus insulated front zipper pocket for snacks
Constructed with an easy to clean anti-bacterial lining
What sets the Columbia PFG Insulated Cooler Backpack apart from other beach cooler backpacks is its emphasis on keeping the bag clean with minimal effort. The inside of the cooler is made with Microban which protects against bacterial odors and stains. The outside of the backpack is constructed with Slime-Tech technology which is resistant to dirt, gunk and muck. These special materials translate into an easier to clean and more hygienic cooler backpack option that is perfect for those who often keep their beach bags in storage during the off-seasons.
Arean Team 45 Backpack
Available in a dozen fun patterns and colors, the Arena Team 45 is the perfect family beach backpack thanks to its beach-ready features such as breathable compartments for moisture control, large mesh pockets for wet gear and plenty of pockets throughout for all of your beach must-haves.
Read more about the Arena Team 45
What makes the Arena Team 45 a great backpack for the beach?
Massive storage: 45 liters (perfect for families)
Breathable compartments to control moisture
Large mesh compartment to keep wet items separate
Waterproof reinforced bottom for extra protection
The Arena Team 45 Backpack is a cute beach backpack with some big features that shine for both swimmers and beach goers alike. The massive 45 liter internal capacity gives you enough room to store multiple towels, blankets, beach toys and smaller accessories. Each compartment was designed to be as breathable as possible to help damp items dry while on the move. Say goodbye to stinky wet backpacks!
How to Choose the Best Beach Backpack
Need help choosing a beach backpack? Here are some tips of what to look out for when picking out a new beach bag!
Make a Packing List
Before choosing the right backpack for your next day at shore, it’s important to get an idea of what exactly you’ll be carrying. Making a packing list with all of the items you need before shopping for a new beach bag will make it easy to determine what size is best and which pockets and compartment you can’t live without!
A sample beach packing list:
Towel
Beach blanket
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Water, beverages and snacks
Headphones
Book/Journal
Portable Power Bank for charging
Sun Hat
Frisbee
Bluetooth Speaker
Read more tips
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
A water resistant or waterproof backpack for the beach is recommended for those who like to enjoy things on the beach they can’t afford to get wet. Think of books, writing journals, headphones or iPads. A good water resistant or waterproof backpack will give you peace of mind giving you more time to focus on enjoying the day outdoors.
But what is the difference between water resistant and waterproof?
Water resistant backpacks repel some water but not all. They are great at preventing moisture from light rain or water splashes from reaching the inside but have a limit to how much water they can repel. Water resistant backpacks usually have coated exterior fabrics or special lining on the inside to get the job done. You’ll know a backpack is water resistant because drops of water will bead on top of the fabric and roll off instead of seeping into it.
If you don’t plan on taking your beach backpack near the water, then a water resistant backpack will be more than enough protection from the occasional light splash.
Waterproof backpacks are a big step up from water resistant bags because they consist of heavier-duty construction such as waterproof zippers or rolltops, special watertight seams and waterproof materials that moisture can’t penetrate.
A true waterproof backpack can even be submerged in water although these backpacks are usually advertised as “watertight” or “airtight”. Most backpacks advertised as waterproof might not be able to be fully submerged in water but they will survive heavy rain downpours or a nasty wave splash at the beach. We recommend going with a waterproof backpack if you like to set down your beach towel close to a sneaky tide or if you would like a small bag to bring with you when participating in water sports.
The Backpack Should Be Easy to Clean
Let’s face it, cleaning up your beach accessories after a long day on the beach can be a major chore. Sandy items and wet gear does tend to make a mess inside bags and cars. We’ve all been there.
Your beach backpack should be easy to keep clean!
The most low maintenance beach backpacks are made out of mesh. These lightweight backpacks promote airflow for quicker drying of your wet items and the netting will allow for sand to stay on the beach, instead of following you in the car or hotel room. Just give your mesh beach backpack a shake and you are good to go!
If you would like a beach backpack that is more substantial than mesh bags, then we recommend a simple lightweight backpack that is easy to turn inside out and wipe down. This means avoiding backpacks that have compartments where sand can be easily trapped such as padded laptop compartments, fleece-lined pockets and smaller organizer pockets for things like pens and pencils.
Simple backpacks with large main compartments and one or two extra pockets would be ideal for easy cleaning after a long beach day.
Keep it Lightweight
We recommend lightweight beach backpacks over big heavy backpacks for good reason. Lightweight backpacks are easier to clean, have less pockets where sand can get caught in and keep you comfortable when packing heavier loads such as multiple towels and beach toys. If you are traveling to the beach on holiday, then a lightweight backpack will be much easier to pack inside your luggage since many are compressible and packable.
Chrome Barrage Cargo Backpack Review - A Rugged Urban Commuter
The Chrome Barrage Cargo is a great option for anyone looking for a rugged waterproof backpack for commuting. We take closer look in this in-depth backpack review.
The Chrome Barrage Cargo is tough-as-nails rolltop backpack for city commuting that ditches fancy technical features for a tried and true design that gets the job done.
As far as urban backpacks go the Chrome Barrage Cargo has everything you need: a seriously waterproof construction, a tough abrasion-resistant exterior, simple-to-use rolltop access and unique cargo netting for extra storage on days when you need more room.
In this hands-on Chrome Barrage Cargo Backpack review we will take a look at all of the details so that you can make a better choice deciding if this bag is right for you.
Where to Buy:
Materials and Construction
When handling the Chrome Barrage Cargo you’ll quickly notice that it feels heavy-duty. Weighing in at 3lbs, it’s definitely not a lightweight backpack but the tradeoff is that the bag is built like an absolute tank with incredibly strong and abrasion-resistant materials.
This isn’t a delicate backpack that you’ll have to baby for fear of losing its integrity. Throw in to the back of a truck (or against a brick wall) and it will be just fine. To be honest, the Barrage Cargo feels heftier then a lot of the “military grade” tactical backpacks we have tried.
Waterproof Construction
Although not submergible, the Barrage Cargo is as waterproof as a daily urban backpack can get without turning into a full on dry bag.
The pack itself is made with a water resistant 1050D Nylon exterior and a thick tarpaulin liner on the inside that prevents any moisture from reaching the main compartment. The tarpaulin liner combined with the welded seams create a waterproof barrier that can protect the inside against heavy rains and nasty splashes from moving cars.
The bottom exterior also includes a black tarpaulin section for further protection if you were to ever unfortunate enough to set your bag down on a puddle.
We got our hands on the Limited Edition Swedish Camo version of the Barrage Cargo which sports a bright orange tarpaulin liner on the inside. Most other versions include a more subdued light gray color liner - keep this in mind if shopping for the Barrage Cargo in a different color scheme.
Serious Hardware
Chrome uses metal ladderlock buckles for the shoulder strap adjustments and their signature metal “seatbelt buckle” on the sternum strap.
Chrome Industries metal ladderlock buckle on the shoulder straps
The buckles on the rolltop and cargo net are made of a heavy duty plastic. Although we would have loved to see metal buckles used instead we have no doubts that the massive plastic rolltop buckle can take some serious abuse.
Pockets and Compartments
The Chrome Barrage Cargo has simple compartment placement that makes it quick and easy to store essentials without overwhelming you with lots of smaller pockets, zippers and flaps.
The bag is essentially made up of the large main compartment on the inside and various pockets and attachment points throughout its exterior.
Inside the Main Compartment
On the inside we can find an 18 liter main compartment that is large enough for daily carry or packing for an overnight stay. Here is where you can find a single unpadded sleeve pocket for storing a laptop, documents or other flat items.
14” laptop inside the main compartment sleeve
The sleeve can fit up to a 15.4” Macbook Pro and we found it to comfortably fit a 14” PC laptop. Due to its lack of padding, Chrome suggests that you also use a separate padded laptop sleeve when storing your laptop here. The one problem we found with that recommendation is that even a 13” Macbook with a padded sleeve becomes too thick to fit inside the pocket. Therefore, we found that the only way you can really use the laptop sleeve pocket is by storing the laptop bare.
The silver lining is that the sleeve pocket is suspended an inch or two about the bottom of the bag to protect your laptop from bumps and drops.
External Pockets
Most of your pockets can be found on the outside of the bag for fast access.
Two slip pockets can be found on either side of the Barrage Cargo backpack for storage of water bottles, an umbrella or bike U-Lock. We found that up to a 24oz water bottle can fit inside these side pockets.
A separate quick-access zippered pocket can be found on the front panel. This is a fairly large pocket that covers most of the front panel and we found it to be a good place to stash a small notebook, wallet and laptop charger.
The Cargo Net
The front cargo net is one of the Barrage Cargo’s most distinguishing features and what sets it apart from other rolltop commuter backpacks.
It’s the ideal size to hold a cycling helmet but we also found it’s great for many oversized items such as shoes or boxing gloves. Whether you are a daily city commuter or need a tough gym bag - you’ll be sure to find the cargo net more than useful.
Men’s size 12(US) shoes attached to the cargo net
What Fits Inside the Chrome Barrage Cargo?
The main compartment on the Barrage Cargo backpack gives you 18-22 liters of packing room depending on how much you “roll up” the rolltop. We found this capacity to suit most people who are looking for a daily use backpack for work, school or running errands. For travel, this capacity will give you enough room for 1-3 days of travel depending on how light you pack.
Keep in mind that you also have the external cargo net plus various pockets for additional storage.
INSIDE THE MAIN COMPARTMENT
Over-ear headphones
Small Camera Cube (8” x 7” x 4”)
1-inch binder
Light jacket
Tech Pouch (8.5" x 6" x 2.5")
13” Laptop
Comfort Features
The Chrome Barrage Cargo features a hefty one-piece shoulder harness that connects at the top instead of the typical two strap harness design. It is small construction details like these that really let us know the Barrage Cargo means business. This shoulder strap design provides a much stronger attachment point and minimizes the chances of failure at the top of the shoulder strap.
The molded foam back panel has built-in airflow channels to kee you cool and comfortable. We found that the back panel on the Barrage Cargo does not include a stiff frame sheet and as a result the back panel does have some give in it.
What this means is that if you were to pack the Barrage Cargo with clothing, the back panel can round to the shape of the clothes. Place a laptop or books against the back panel and the back panel with stiffen.
For additional support, Chrome includes an adjustable sternum strap that uses their signature seatbelt buckle. That little click you hear when you close the buckle is incredibly satisfying and definitely one of our favorite features on the Barrage Cargo by far.
Final Thoughts
What the Chrome Barrage Cargo lacks in specialty pockets and flashy features it more than makes up with its tough-as-nails construction.
This bombproof design is a breath of fresh air when compared to other technical urban backpacks that offer lots of interesting features but threaten with too many failure points over time. You just don’t get that vibe from the Chrome Barrage Cargo. Nothing about this bag made us think “uh-oh, I wonder how long this stitching will hold up…”
But who is the Chrome Barrage Cargo ideally for? We recommend this backpack to anyone who wants a reliable waterproof backpack for commuting and daily hauls. It’s utilitarian design might not be everyone’s cup of tea but if you are less than kind to your gear then we believe the Barrage Cargo is the perfect match thanks to its rugged construction and heavy-duty materials.
In conclusion we think the Barrage Cargo is a great buy if you know what to expect - a simple rolltop backpack that is built to last years and not just a few seasons.
Where to Buy:
King Kong ZONE25 Review - Meal Prep Backpack for Work & Workouts
More than a meal prep backpack! In this hands-on backpack review we take a closer look at what makes the King Kong ZONE25 a versatile workhorse for the gym, work and travel.
Whether you are looking for reliable gym bag, meal prep backpack, or a lunch box backpack for work, the ZONE25 is versatile enough to do it all thanks a smart design that adapts as you need it.
While many other meal prep backpacks include a built-in meal compartment, King Kong has decided to use an insulated meal insert that is completely removable. This means you can convert the ZONE25 into a full capacity gym, work or travel backpack in seconds.
In this King Kong ZONE25 backpack review we are going to take a closer look at all of the small details that make this backpack a great buy for anyone looking for one bag that can do it all.
Where to buy: KING KONG
Video Review
Materials and Construction
Our first impressions of the King Kong ZONE25 were overwhelmingly positive thanks to its rugged construction and clean minimalist design. The bag itself is made from food grade 1000D Nylon that is TPU coated for water resistance. Water just runs right off of this backpack and the coating allows the material to be easily wiped down and cleaned as needed.
King Kong backpacks are known for their tough construction and the ZONE25 is no exception. Along the sides of the backpack you have thick nylon straps that can be used to secure large items like a blanket, towel or yoga mat. These nylon straps are equipped with large heavy-duty aluminum buckles.
The King Kong ZONE Meal Insert
Every ZONE25 includes a matching King Kong ZONE insert. This is essentially an insulated lunch box that comes equipped with two meal containers and an ice pack to keep the inside cool.
The ZONE insert itself is large enough to fit a 6-pack of 12oz cans. Each individual meal container can hold up to .8L (800ml) of food.
Double Up
A really awesome feature of the ZONE25 backpack is that the main compartment can hold up to two ZONE inserts for double the meal storage. King Kong offers additional ZONE inserts separately if you ever want to double up your meal prep capacity.
Pockets and Compartments
King Kong has designed this backpack with a series a separate packing areas they call ZONES. The ZONE25 can be divided into three ZONES: the front compartment, the laptop compartment and the main compartment where meal insert is stored.
Main Compartment
The 25 liter main compartment is just one large bucket-style open compartment. The only pocket inside is a neoprene sleeve that can hold a slim water bottle alongside the insulated meal insert.
We found that both a water bottle and a meal insert can fit inside at the same time. This is a neat little detail that we appreciated. Neoprene is known for its insulation properties and this little sleeve can help keep your water bottle cool while out and about.
On the top of the lid there is a single zippered pocket made out of a thick transparent plastic material. Not only can you easily see what’s inside but the pocket material also makes it easy to keep clean. We found this pocket perfect for items like cutlery, napkins, tea and condiments.
Front Compartment
The front compartment offers additional storage and organization. Inside you’ll find a large slip pocket that can easily fit a notebook, iPad Pro or other large tablet.
You won’t find much in terms of admin pockets inside this front compartment for small items like pens or a phone but the two zippered pockets makes for easy storage of these smaller items.
The front compartment is actually pretty roomy since it fans out to the front instead of digging into the main compartment when full. We found that it has room to store items like a jump rope, weight training gloves, and even a toiletries bag.
Laptop Compartment
The King Kong ZONE25 includes a fully padded laptop compartment against the back panel. Although King Kong says it can fit a laptop up to 16-inches, they really mean a 16” Macbook Pro or other very thin laptop.
For PC users, you will be regulated to laptops 14-inches and under. We found that a clunky 15.6” laptop PC will not fit inside this pocket.
The padding is good and the laptop does feel secure inside this compartment. Our only complaint is that there is no false-bottom for extra protection. This means that the laptop sleeve reaches all the way to the bottom of the bag with only the padding to protect a laptop form drops.
Water Bottle Pockets
Along with the internal neoprene water bottle sleeve, King Kong gives you two additional bottle pockets on each side of the backpack. That’s a total of 3 storage options for your drink bottles which we thought to be a nice surprise.
The external water bottle pockets are very roomy and we found them to fit a 32oz Nalgene bottle, 30oz Yeti Rambler Tumbler and a standard size blender bottle with room to spare.
What Fits Inside the King Kong ZONE25?
We decided to dedicate this part of our review to what fits inside the ZONE25 with the meal insert inside.
Although the main compartment has a total capacity of 25 liters, you can expect the meal insert to take up about half that space when stored.
The main compartment measures about 16” H x 11” W x 8” D but with the meal insert inside your height gets reduced to 8”.
With the meal insert inside, the King Kong ZONE25 fits:
1x Sweatshirt
1x Sweatpants
1x Small packing cube (11” x 6.75” x 3”)
1x Small towel
Or it can fit a pair of gym shoes with a men’s size 12 (US) being the max size to fit on top of the meal insert.
With the meal insert removed you have the entire 25 liter main compartment at your disposal and we could fit a lot more bulkier items like a pair of yoga blocks, toiletries bag and small towel with room to spare.
Comfort and Fit Features
We found the ZONE25 to be a goldilocks in terms of fit - not too small yet not too bulky. This backpack is unisex in design and we are sure it will fit a variety of body types.
King Kong has done a good job when it comes to comfort features. The shoulder straps on the ZONE25 are well padded with thick foam that really makes a difference when the bag gets heavy. You will also find an adjustable chest strap to help with weight distribution.
Interestingly enough, King Kong has decided to not use traditional foam panels on the back panel. Instead the back shares its padding with the laptop sleeve.
This design surprisingly works well for the ZONE25 as it makes the back panel easy to wipe down and keep clean. The internal padding was also comfortable when worn, even when the backpack was full.
Final Thoughts
The King Kong ZONE25 does a quite a few things very well. We love its simple and almost minimalist design that takes it’s cues from the larger King Kong EDGE35 gym backpack. The easy to clean surface is a must for a backpack you’ll be using for transporting food and drinks while the quality is tough and rugged. This backpack really feels like it can take a beating over time.
After using the King Kong ZONE25 we found this backpack to be worth the price of admission. Very few bags have the versatility to be used as a functional meal prep backpack as well as a gym, work and travel bag.
This versatility is what gives the ZONE25 its edge when compared with other meal prep bags and when looking for a backpack that can fit multiple needs, the ZONE25 is a serious contender.
Where to buy: King Kong
19 Best Backpacks with Water Bottle Pockets - Tested and Reviewed!
Say goodbye to backpacks with flimsy water bottle pockets! In this buying guide we search for the best backpack with water bottle holder and give you 19 great options for staying hydrated on the move.
Note: This article was last updated in April 2024, and we will continue to provide updates as we find new backpacks.
Let’s be honest - most backpacks have water bottle pockets. So why did we even bother writing this buying guide?
The truth is that many pockets are either too shallow, too flimsy, or just too small—especially for those carrying larger stainless steel water bottles, like the popular 32 oz or 40 oz sizes. Do you carry a Stanley Cup or other tumbler with a handle? Finding a backpack that fit these larger bottles can be almost impossible.
In this guide, not only do we focus on helping you find the best backpack with a water bottle holder but one that fits your specific water bottle. We tested these backpacks ourselves to confirm which size bottles fit and posted the results.
Types of Backpacks with Water Bottle Pockets
This backpack buying guide is split into two main lists.
The North Face Surge (left) and the Knack Pack (right)
Backpacks with water bottle holders have your standard side pockets on the outside of the bag. Most backpacks with water bottle holders have this style of pocket.
Backpacks with hidden water bottle pockets offer a more discreet way to carry your water bottles. These pockets can be internal and completely hidden or can blend into the backpack so that they aren’t in the way when not in use. We like these the best for keeping a clean profile.
Water Bottles We Used to Test
Below is a list of water bottles we used to test these backpacks.
Hydro Flask 24 oz
Hydro Flask 32 oz
Hydro Flask 40 oz
Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth
CamelBak 32 oz Chute Mag
Owala Freesip 40 oz
Owala Tumbler 40 oz
Stanley Quencher 40 oz
Yeti Rambler 64 oz
Best Backpacks with Water Bottle Holders
Topo Designs Rover Pack
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 40 oz and under, including 40 oz and 32 oz Hydro Flask, 32 oz Nalgene Wide Mouth and 27 oz Bink Day Bottle
Does not fit tumblers with handles
Topo Designs is one of those backpack brands that just understands a well designed water bottle holder. The Rover Pack offers a deep gusseted water bottle holder on each side of the pack that can fit a 32oz Nalgene or most stainless steel water bottles up to 40oz. Since these pockets can be compressed with a strap, they can also securily hold small water bottles as well.
Key Features:
Capacity: 20L
15" laptop sleeve
Available in over a dozen colors
The North Face Recon
Our test results:
Fits water bottles 40 oz and under, including 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydroflask, 32 oz Nalgene bottle, Owala Freesip 40 oz and Bink Day Bottle 27 oz
Fits 40oz tumbler with handle like the 40oz Stanley Cup and 40oz Owala Tumbler
If you are looking for a good backpack with a water bottle pocket, North Face backpacks are some of the best around in our humble opinion. The brand uses a mix of water resistant textile and stretchy mesh that hugs your water bottle and keeps it snuggly in place. Our testing found that The North Face Recon can fit 40oz water bottles, including tumblers such as the 40oz Stanley Cup and 40oz Owala Tumbler. The trick is to undo the side compression strap over the water bottle pocket to allow the elastic to stretch fully.
See our The North Face Recon review for a closer look at all features.
Key Features:
Capacity: 30L
15" laptop compartment
Roomy main compartment is perfect as a daily work pack or school bookbag
Can turn into a hydration backpack for hiking
PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE 32L BACKPACK
Our test results:
Fits all water bottles 40 ounces and under, including the 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydroflask, 40 oz Owala Freesip and 32 oz Nalgene bottle.
Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles
Fits 40 oz tumbler like the Stanley Cup and Owala Tumbler
Fits 64 oz Yeti Rambler
Small bottles like a 500ml or 24 oz bottle will be a little loose in the pocket
The Patagonia Black Hole 32L has some of the largest and stretchiest side pockets we have ever tested. These pockets have enough room for a 40 oz Stanley Quencher tumbler or 40 oz Owala tumbler and are even large enough to fit the massive 64 oz Yeti Rambler!
We also tested the water bottle pockets on the smaller Black Hole 25L but it's important to note that its pockets are narrower and can only fit up to a 40 oz water bottle like the Owala Freesip or Hydro Flask Wide Mouth. To compare the two backpacks check out our Patagonia Black Hole 25L vs 32L comparison.
Key Features:
Capacity: 32L
16" laptop compartment
High quality materials with water-resistant DWR finish
Daisy chains on exterior for bungee cord or accessory attachments
Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L
Our test results:
Fits all bottles 40 ounces and under, including the Bink Day Bottle 27 oz, 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40oz Hydroflask, 40 oz Owala Freesip and 32 oz Nalgene bottle.
Fits up to 40 oz tumbler with handle like the Stanley Quencher tumbler and Owala Tumbler
Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles
Fits 64 oz Yeti Rambler
Patagonia makes our list again but this time with the Atom Tote Pack 20L. This backpack is great for shorter people with a smaller frame who want a more appropriate fit. Despite its small size, the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack has very stretchy water bottle pockets that can fit a Stanley Cup or even a 64 oz water bottle like the Yeti Rambler. Not bad for such as small laptop backpack!
For a closer look at the details make sure to see our Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L review.
Key Features:
Capacity: 20L
13" padded laptop sleeve
Lightweight design with very comfortable shoulder straps
Switch from computer backpack to hydration backpack thanks to removable laptop sleeve that makes room for a water bladder.
Sherpani Camden Convertible Backpack
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 40 oz and under including the Bink Day Bottle 27 oz, 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40oz Hydroflask, 40 oz Owala Freesip and 32 oz Nalgene bottle.
Fits tumbler with handle up to 40 oz, like the Owala Tumbler and Stanley Cup
The Sherpani Camden is a cute backpack, tote and crossbody bag in one! In addition to being roomy enough for school, work and travel - the Camden also offers deep and stretchy water bottle pockets that will hold any 40oz water bottle perfectly in place. The stretchy elastic even fits 40oz tumblers making it the perfect backpack for a Stanley Cup.
Key Features:
Capacity: 21L
15" dedicated laptop sleeve
Available in tons of fun colors
Convertible: backpack, tote bag and crossbody bag
Perfect size to use as a personal item backpack on flights
King Kong PLUS Backpack
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 64 ounces and under including shaker bottles, water bottles and tumblers with handles
Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles
Fits the Yeti Rambler 64 oz
Small bottles stay in place due to deep pockets with elastic
We recommend the King Kong PLUS to anyone looking for a great gym backpack with a shoe compartment thanks to its sturdy construction, easy access pockets and unique design. The two massive side pockets are easily some of the largest we have ever tested. When used as water bottle sleeves, they consume the giant 64 oz Yeti Rambler and can handle 40 oz tumblers like a champ. Thanks to the elastic and the depth of each pocket, even smaller bottles stay securely in place.
Key Features:
Capacity: 26L
15" dedicated laptop sleeve
External shoe compartment that zips flat when not in use
Unique dual access to the main compartment (clamshell and regular)
Osprey Proxima 30 Backpack
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 64 ounces and under, including 32oz Nalgene, all Hydro Flask sizes and all Yeti Rambler water bottle sizes.
Fits tumblers with handles like the 40 oz Owala and Stanley tumbler
Small bottles like a 500ml or 20 oz water bottle will be a little loose in the pocket but the pocket is deep enough to keep it securely in place.
Designed to be the ultimate school backpack, the Osprey Proxima 30 is loaded with a large main compartment, spacious pockets and two perfectly stretchy water bottle pockets to keep you hydrated on long days. The high quality mesh that Osprey uses on their backpacks is some of the best. It can accomodate large 40 oz bottles and tumblers but still holds smaller slim bottles in place. It can even fit a 64 ounce water bottle!
Key Features:
Capacity: 30L
16" laptop compartment
Front compression straps gives you extra storage for bulky jackets or a skateboard
Airscape backpanel for great stability
Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
Our Test Results
Will fit all water bottles 40 ounces and under, including the 32 ounce Hydro Flask and 40 ounce Owala Freesip
Easily fits 40 ounce tumbler like the Owala or Stanley Tumbler
Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles
Fits 64 ounce water bottle like the Yeti Rambler
The Osprey Daylite Plus has one of the most versatile designs available today. It can serve as a travel backpack, thanks to its built-in trolley sleeve, a daily laptop backpack, or you can add a water bladder to transform it into a hydration backpack for hiking.
The side pockets on the Daylite Plus are great thanks to the stretchy mesh that securely holds large water bottles with ease. Big bottles, such as the 40-ounce Owala or Stanley tumbler, fit comfortably inside. Additionally, the deep pockets are perfect for making sure smaller bottles, like a 20-ounce or 24-ounce stainless steel bottle, stay securely in place.
Key Features:
Capacity: 20L
14" padded sleeve for laptop or tablet
Super light weight design
Available in tons of different colors
Versatile design: Can be used for travel, laptop carry and day hikes
Rains Trail Mountaineer Bag
Our test results:
Will fit most water bottles up to 64 ounces, including the Yeti Rambler 64oz
40 oz tumblers with handles can easily fit
Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles
Smaller bottles 24 ounces and under will be a loose fit inside the pocket
Crafted from waterproof materials, the Rains Trail Mountaineer Bag blurs the line between a high-end fashion backpack and a rugged outdoor bag. At its core, it's an everyday backpack designed to handle life's essentials, including a laptop, cell phone, jacket, large water bottle and other common daily items,. The extra-large mesh side pocket accommodates most bottles up to 64 oz, including a 40-ounce tumbler with a handle, making it perfect for carrying your drinks with ease.
Key Features:
Capacity: 22L
16" laptop sleeve
Made with Rains' signature waterproof fabric
External straps, bungee and webbing allow you to expand your storage (you can easily attach an extra water bottle to the straps)
THE NORTH FACE SURGE
Our test results:
Will fit most water bottles 40 oz and under, including 32oz and 40oz Hydro Flask with a boot, 32 oz Nalgene, Owala and Yeti water bottles
Will fit 40 oz tumblers with handles like the Stanley Quencher and Owala tumbler
The Surge is one of the largest North Face backpacks currently available thanks to its 31-liter capacity, multi-device laptop compartment, and large number of pockets. A bigger footprint also means large side pockets for water bottles. We found that the side water bottle holders can easily fit larger bottles like the 32 oz Nalgene, 40 oz Hydro Flask and even a 40-ounce Owala or Stanley tumbler.
The North Face offers the Surge backpack in both men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit.
Key Features:
Capacity: 31L
15" laptop compartment with extra sleeve for a tablet or documents
Includes chest strap and removable hip belt
Lots of organization: 19 pockets total
Stubble & Co. The Backpack
Our test results:
Fits slim water bottles 20 ounces and under, including 500 ml water bottles
The Backpack by Stubble & Co is great for anyone looking for a high quality backpack that is built to last. The side water bottle pockets on this backpack are deep enough to secure a water bottle, umbrella or small items without worry of anything slipping out when on the move. Just keep in mind that although the side water bottle holders are great for smaller 500ml and 20 ounce bottles, they are not going to fit large water bottles.
Key Features:
Capacity: 21L
16" laptop sleeve
Made of water resistant waxed canvas.
Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 40 ounces and under, including 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydroflask, 32 oz Nalgene, 40 oz Owala Freesip water bottle and shaker bottles.
Does not fit tumbers with handles like the Stanley Quencher or Owala Tumbler 40oz
The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is a sports and school backpack for those with busy schedules. This backpack includes a large main compartment, front organizers and a separate bottom compartment for shoes. As a backpack with water bottle holder, the Hustle includes two extra large mesh pockets on either side that can hold most big bottles up to 40 ounces. However, they do not stretch far enough for tumblers with handles like the Owala and Stanley Tumber.
Check out our Under Armour Hustle 5.0 review for more details or check out our Under Armour Hustle 5.0 vs Pro backpack comparison (the Pro has a water bottle cooler pocket!)
Key Features:
Capacity: 29L
16" laptop sleeve
Bottom shoe compartment
Organizer compartment for smaller items
Pacsafe Vibe Anti-Theft Backpack
As far as anti-theft backpacks go, few brands offer as much innovation and smart design as Pacsafe. With their 20 liter Vibe Anti-Theft backpack, Pacsafe offers a creative take on the daily backpack by giving you plenty of anti-theft features like anti-slash fabrics and the ability to lock the bag to a table or chair leg when needed.
The water bottle pockets on the Vibe are made of a tight-knit mesh that keeps your bottle snuggly in place and is deep enough to secure your bottles if you were to lean over. And because this mesh is incredibly stretchy, you can accommodate a variety of water bottle sizes without worry.
Jansport Superbreak Plus
The original Jansport Superbreak is one of the best affordable backpacks you can use for school, commuting or travel but unfortunately it leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to modern features. Jansport changes the tide by offering the Superbreak Plus. This updated Superbreak gives you the best the original had to offer with the addition of a 15” laptop sleeve and side pocket, making the Plus a perfect option for anyone looking for a Jansport backpack with water bottle pocket.
Backpacks with Hidden Water Bottle Pockets
Knack Pack Expandable Backpack
Our test results:
Only fits slim water bottles 24 ounces and under, including 500 ml water bottles
Water bottles with handles or lids that protrude will not fit (example: CamelBak Chute Mag or Thermoflask Chug Lid)
The Knack Pack is an expandable everyday and travel pack for those who want one bag to rule them all. We tested the Medium Knack Pack size that has an 17 liter volume unexpanded for daily carry and can expand up to 31 liters for travel. The hidden water bottle pocket can be found on the side of the backpack and we found that it can only fit smaller bottles 24 ounces and under. This should be no problem for people who carry slim bottles from popular brands like Klean Kanteen, Hydro Flask and Owala.
We have testes both the Knack Pack Series 1 and Series 2 extensively and have found that the water bottle pocket on the Series is one is slightly larger and can fit more bottle sizes. For a closer look at the difference between the two, check out our Knack Pack Series vs Series 2 comparison.
Key Features:
Capacity: 17-31L expandable
15" laptop sleeve and separate tablet sleeve in main compartment
Made with anti-microbial lining to prevent stinky smells
Perfect work and travel bag thanks to hidden packing compartment and lots of pockets.
Able Carry Daily Plus Backpack
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 40 ounces and under, including the 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydro Flask, 32 oz Nalgene bottle, and all slim water bottles 24 ounces and under.
Tumblers with handles will not fit
The Able Carry Daily Plus is a lightweight daypack for those who are serious about organization of tech and daily essentials. The Daily Plus is equipped with a 16-inch laptop sleeve, seperate tablet sleeve and plenty of pockets for organization - all housed inside a minimalist outer design. This backpack ditches the traditional water bottle holder for a hidden side pocket that can fit a stainless steel water bottle up to 40 ounces, such as the 40oz Hydro Flask Wide Mouth water bottle.
Key Features:
Capacity: 21L
16" dedicated laptop sleeve and 11" tablet sleeve
High quality X-Pac water resistant construction
Super comfortable shoulder straps with ergonomic back panel
Able Carry Max Backpack
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 40 ounces and under, including the 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydro Flask, 32 oz Nalgene bottle, and all slim water bottles 24 ounces and under.
Tumblers with protruding handles will not fit
Designed for both daily carry and travel, the Able Carry Max offers a stylish minimalist design and beefy construction for those who want one tough versatile backpack. The large main compartment gives you a ton of packing space while the rear laptop compartment acts as a mobile office for your tech and accessories.
Like the smaller Able Carry Daily Plus Backpack, the Max offers an internal water bottle pocket that stays hidden when zipped shut. We found that it can fit up to a 40 oz stainless steel water bottle with ease.
Key Features:
Capacity: 30L
17" rear laptop compartment
High quality X-Pac water resistant construction
Lockable zippers, luggage sleeve and large main compartment for travel
Ridge Commuter Backpack 20L
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 24 ounces or smaller, including 24 oz Hydro Flask and 500ml bottles.
The Ridge Commuter Backpack is one of our favorite daily carry and travel backpacks thanks to clever pockets that allow you to have everything in its right place. The highly water-resistant construction also makes it one of favorite waterproof backpacks for college.
This backpack has water bottle holders on each side of the pack that stay hidden when zipped closed. Our testing found that the side pockets can securliy fit slim water bottles up to 24 ounces. This means your 17oz, 20oz and 500 ml water bottles will all fit inside the side pockets.
Key Features:
Capacity: 20L
16" laptop compartment with water resistant zipper
Includes removable main compartment divider for easier packing
Water resistant construction
Nomatic Backpack
Our test results:
Fits most water bottles 40 ounces and under, including 32 oz Hydro Flask , 40 oz Hydro Flask and 32 ounce Nalgene water bottle.
Looks can be deceiving with the Nomatic backpack. A minimalist exterior doesn’t exactly prepare you for the number of pockets that meet you once inside the pack. In fact, it's one of our favorite recommendations for people looking for a backpack with lots of pockets.
When it comes to water bottle holders, the Nomatic does things a bit different. Each side pocket is held together by a magnet that stays flat against the backpack when not in use but inside is a very stretchy mesh material that can old up to a 40 ounce water bottle. Smaller bottles are held firmly in place thanks to the stretchy mesh that hugs the bottle.
Key Features:
Capacity: 20-24L expandable main compartment
Seperate laptop and tablet sleeves
Hide the shoulder straps and carry like a briefcase
Water resistant materials and zippers
King Kong Backpack II vs PLUS26 Gym Backpack Comparison
In this gym backpack comparison we take a look at the King Kong Backpack II and the new PLUS26 to explore what the real differences are. Is it worth the upgrade?
Those looking for a feature-packed gym backpack should be no strangers to the King Kong Backpack II. This classic backpack offers great gym and daily carry features that make transitioning from work to workout easier than ever.
Recently, King Kong has released the PLUS26 - an updated successor to the popular Backpack II. While the PLUS26 holds on to a lot of the same features that make the Backpack II awesome, it still has some upgrades that are worth your attention.
In this King Kong Backpack II vs PLUS26 backpack comparison we take a hands-on look at what the real differences are so that you can decide which version of this iconic backpack is the better choice.
Quick Specs
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 28 Liters | 26 Liters |
| Material | 1000D Polyester Ripstop Nylon |
1000D Polyester Ripstop Nylon Hypalon |
| Laptop Sleeve | Up to 15" laptop | Up to 16" laptop |
| Weight | 3.5lbs | 3.5lbs |
| Dimensions | 20"H x 13"W x 7"D | 20"H x 12"W x 7"D |
| Price | Check on King Kong | Check on King Kong |
Video Review
Size and Materials
When it comes to size and carrying capacity there isn’t much of a difference between the PLUS26 and the older Backpack II.
While the Backpack II has a carrying capacity of 28 liters, King Kong has decided to slim it down a bit with 26 liters in the PLUS26.
In terms of actual size and dimensions, the PLUS26 is an inch less in width than the Backpack II while the height and depth has stayed the same.
King Kong has also decided to keep most of the materials the same as well. Both backpack use the same 1000D Nylon on the exterior with YKK zippers and both interiors are made with the same bright red ripstop nylon lining.
One addition to the PLUS26 is the use of Hypalon on high-impact areas. You can find Hypalon along the sides of the front shoe compartment, on the water bottle pockets, shoulder straps and handles. Hypalon is even used to reinforce the stitching on the front shoe pocket strap for extra durability.
Hypalon panels on the King Kong PLUS26
Pockets and Compartments
Shoe Compartment
One of the best features on the Kong Kong Backpack II has always been its shoe pocket. Unlike other backpacks with shoe compartments, King Kong places the shoe pocket on the front of the bag which helps keep the inside of your backpack fresh. The entire pocket expands by using two zippers on the sides and is secured with a heavy duty carbon steel buckle.
The PLUS26 keeps the same shoe pocket design but has changed the buckle to a Fidlock Quick Release Buckle. Although it doesn’t feel as heavy duty as the old carbon steel buckle it is much easier to maneuver. In fact, you can open and close the Fidlock Buckle with just one hand thanks to the fast action magnets that simply pulls the buckle into place.
Admin Pocket
Both the Backpack II and PLUS26 include a small admin compartment above the shoe pocket that features multiple smaller pockets for pens, business cards and a phone.
On the Backpack II we found the slip pockets inside the admin compartment to be a little too small for items like a larger phone, laptop charger or wallet. But one feature that is missing from the King Kong PLUS26 is the cable port that allows you to port a charging or headphones cable to the outside.
On the PLUS26, King Kong offers similar smaller pockets inside the admin compartment but with the addition of a larger slip pocket that is just the right size for a Macbook charger or glasses case. The addition of this slip pocket makes organization of your daily items much easier to manage and we prefer this pocket over the older style on the Backpack II.
Main Compartment
When it comes to main compartment access, both the King Kong PLUS26 and Backpack II feature a dual access main compartment design. This is definitely one of the best features of these bags and one that King Kong made it a point to stick with. This design allows you top loading access to the main compartment with one zipper and full clamshell access to the main compartment with the second zipper.
Once inside there are a couple of minor differences between the Backpack II and PLUS26 worth pointing out. The first difference is with the internal zip pockets that line the left side of the main compartment. On the Backpack II the top pocket is much higher up and the bottom mesh pockets are much lower than the pockets on the PLUS26.
King Kong centers these pockets on the PLUS26 and the result is easier access to the pockets. This is especially true for the top pocket since the older Backpack II design meant that the zipper was slightly buried in the seam making it harder to find when needing to access it quickly. This is a very small improvement but an improvement non-the-less.
The second difference is with the laptop sleeve on the right side. On the Backpack II there is 360 degree spacing along the entire laptop sleeve that creates a protective bumper around your laptop against bumps and drops.
Unfortunately King Kong got rid of this spacing on the left and right sides of the laptop sleeve with the PLUS26. Instead the laptop sleeve itself stitches directly onto the sides of the back panel. Because of this small detail we have to conclude that the Backpack II has the safer laptop sleeve.
Water Bottle Pockets
The last pockets to compare are the side water bottle pockets. On the Backpack II, King Kong offers a compressed water bottle that expands with a zipper and mesh divider. This allows you to hide the water pocket while not in use.
King Kong changed these pockets on the PLUS26 by adding a simple elastic band design. In our opinion this elastic band design is easier and faster to use since you don’t have to fiddle with zippers. It’s just less fuss to deal with when you are on the move.
COMFORT FEATURES
When it comes to comfort features there are big differences in the shoulder straps and back panel that are worth pointing out.
On the Backpack II, the shoulder straps measure 2.5-inches in width and are very padded with a soft mesh lining on the inside. King Kong has changed the shoulder strap design that is much stiffer with less cushion. They also made the new PLUS26 shoulder straps much wider - measuring in at a little over 3-inches.
Our one big gripe with the King Kong PLUS26 is with the shoulder straps. Although the wider design will give more support to those with broader shoulders, the cushioning could be a lot better. Because of this we have to give the older Backpack II the point for having the more comfortable shoulder straps.
The second difference is with the back panel design. Although the back panels look different they really don’t feel that much difference when the bags are worn. In fact, they feel about the same when the backpack is fully loaded.
What we like about the back panel on the PLUS26 is that the air channel cutout offers much better airflow against your backpack while still providing good upper back and lumbar support. This is great if you plan on using your King Kong backpack for hiking or outdoor workouts.
King Kong Backpack II VS PLUS26: Wrap Up
King Kong Backpack II
King Kong PLUS26
Choose the King Kong Backpack II if… you want a reliable gym backpack that can also be used for work or travel. Despite the upgrades to the PLUS26, the Backpack II offers most of the same functionality such as dual access to the main compartment, multiple organizer pockets and an exterior shoe pocket. The Backpack II also has a more protective laptop sleeve and generously cushioned shoulder straps for added comfort.
Choose the King Kong PLUS26 if… you want the best features of the Backpack II with a few upgrades for easier daily carry. The PLUS26 offers better internal pocket placement and an improved front admin pocket for daily essentials like sunglasses and chargers. Other improvements include quick-access water bottle pockets and an easy to use magnetic buckle in the shoe compartment for less hassle on busy workout days. The PLUS26 also includes Hypalon panels in high impact areas for less wear and tear over time.
Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus Hands-On Comparison 2019
Battle of the Osprey daypacks! We explore the differences in size, pockets and features in this Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus hands-on backpack comparison.
Update: We've published an updated Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus comparison. If you're considering purchasing either of these backpacks, make sure to check out the latest Osprey design updates in the new article!
The Osprey Daylite and Daylite Plus are two of Osprey’s most popular daypacks thanks to their durable construction, light weight and affordable pricing. But what’s the real difference?
This Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus comparison is for anyone who need help choosing between the two for their next lightweight daypack.
Whether you need an ultralight backpack for hiking or a little more room for daily carry - we dive deep and explore all of the details so you can discover which Osprey backpack is the better choice for your needs.
Quick Specs
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ~19" H x 9" W x 9" D | ~19" H x 9" W x 10" D |
| Volume | 13 Liters | 20 Liters |
| Material | 210D Nylon Double Diamond Ripstop 400HD Nylon Packcloth |
210D Nylon Double Diamond Ripstop 400HD Nylon Packcloth |
| Internal Sleeve | Non-padded elastic sleeve | Padded sleeve |
| Frame Sheet Measurements | 17.5” H x 8.5” W | 17.5" H x 10” W |
| Front Storage | None | Shove-it pocket, side zip pocket |
| Price | Check the latest price on Amazon | Check the latest price on Amazon |
Video Review
Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus Side-by-Side
Side by side: Osprey Daylite (left) vs Daylite Plus (right)
Size and Carrying Capacity
At first inspection, it’s no secret that the Osprey Daylite Plus is the larger backpack of the two. According to Osprey’s official measurements the Daylite measures in at 18(H) x 9(W) x 9(D) inches while the Daylite Plus is slightly larger at 18(H) x 10(W) x 9(D) inches.
We found that when actually measured both backpacks had a height closer to 19” and the widths vary by an inch depending on how you pack the bags.
A big difference between the Osprey Daylite and Daylight Plus is in their carrying capacity. The Daylite includes a modest carrying capacity of 13 liters which is great for quick hikes or as a light daypack.
The Osprey Daylite Plus has more storage room at 20 liters which makes it more suitable to also be used for light travel in addition to hiking. This extra capacity can be found in the height and width of the main compartment. Both backpacks have about the same main compartment depth.
Pockets and Compartments
Starting with the main compartment, the Osprey Daylite features one large open pocket with a single elastic sleeve made out of the same material as the internal lining. It’s a thin pocket with no extra padding.
You could store a hydration bladder in this pocket here but there is no hydration passthrough so hydration bladders are regulated to the back pocket (more on this below).
As for tech storage, Osprey says you can store a tablet in this sleeve but with the lack of padding we would be wary of storing anything too expensive. We found that a 10” iPad Pro fits just fine in the internal sleeve and a 13” Macbook fits snugly.
Opsrey Daylite Daypack interior sleeve - a 13” Macbook snugly fits
The lack of padding isn’t surprising considering Osprey wants to keep the Daylite as lightweight as possible. At 1lb in weight, it’s very light!
The main compartment inside the Osprey Daylite Plus is also one large compartment but with a key difference… a padded sleeve.
Again, since Osprey wanted to keep these backpacks as light as possible, you are not going to find a lot of padding. The back panel is pretty thin and there isn’t much padding on the sides or bottom. But the padded pocket panel is made out of foam and it even has a clip on top to secure the pocket.
Like the original Osprey Daylite, the Daylite Plus can only comfortably carry a tablet or a slim laptop 13” or under.
On the front of both the Daylite and Daylite Plus you will find an organizer pocket for storing small items. Both of these pockets are exactly the same and feature two slip mesh pockets and a key clip. This front pocket is only about 9-inches deep which makes it great for storing small items.
The most obvious difference between the Osprey Daylite and the Daylite Plus is this front shove-it pocket on the Daylite Plus. This is a big feature that really sets the Daylite Plus apart from the smaller Daylite since it allows you to quickly store items without having to fidget with zippers.
The Daylite Plus’ shove-it pocket can be expanded using the side compression straps for more room for medium sized items. You probably can’t fit a jacket or shoes in this pocket, but a pair of gloves, large headphones or a bike u-lock can fit just fine.
Below the shove-it pocket on the Daylite Plus you’ll find an additional vertical zip pocket. This pocket is great for storing items you need quick access to like a phone or wallet. This pocket is one more feature that can only be found in the Daylite Plus.
On the sides of both the Daylite and Daylite Plus you’ll find mesh pockets that can be used for water bottles. If you take a closer look you’ll notice that both backpacks have different pocket shapes.
The Daylite Plus has deeper side mesh pockets and we found no issues with water bottles staying in place. The original Daylite on the other hand has a tapered mesh pocket design that did our water bottles no favors. Because of how the pocket gets slimmer at the end, we found our water bottles threatening to fall off whenever the backpack was worn.
A solution to this issue is to use the side compression straps on the Daylite to keep the water bottle in place, but this is not an ideal solution to poorly designed water bottle pockets. But if your water bottle is tall enough, it is a viable workaround.
The last pocket to explore in this Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus comparison is the back panel pocket. This pocket can be found right behind the frame sheet and includes a small plastic clip for attaching your hydration bladder. Aside from the pocket being wider on the Daylite Plus, these pockets function exactly the same on both bags.
Material and Construction Comparison
Let’s compare the materials and construction between the two backpacks.
Both the Osprey Daylite and Daylite plus include a removable foam frame sheet along the back panel. These frame sheets are incredibly flexible to allow the bags to contour to your body when worn.
Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus foam frame sheet
The only difference between the two frame sheets is their size. While both frame sheets are 17.5-inches in height, the Daylite includes a narrower frame sheet at 8.5-inches wide while the Daylite Plus includes a wider frame sheet of 10-inches.
When it comes to materials both backpacks use Double Diamond Ripstop on the front panels and 400HD Nylon Packcloth on the bottom of each bag and throughout their bodies. Because of this both backpacks feel exactly the when it comes to quality of materials and overall construction.
The only real difference in materials that you will find is in the shoulder straps. While the Osprey Daylite uses spacer mesh, the Osprey Daylite instead uses a die-cut EVA foam. Both materials are incredibly lightweight and do a great job at contouring to your body and we did not notice much of a difference when wearing either backpack.
Daylite vs Daylite Plus shoulder strap materials
When comparing the shoulder straps themselves, it is worth mentioning that the shoulder strap width on the Osprey Daylite Plus are wider than the ones found in the Daylite. The shoulder straps on the Daylite Plus start at 3-inches in width while the Daylite shoulder straps start at 2.75 inches. They both taper down to the same size.
The rest of the backpack’s construction is more similar than different. Both backpacks have the same exact zipper pulls, adjustable sternum strap with an integrated whistle, removable hip belt with 20mm webbing and a spacer mesh shoulder strap design that doubles as a grab handle.
Which backpack is better?
Choose the Osprey Daylite if… you just need a small and lightweight backpack for hiking or to use as a daypack. 13 liters is large enough to carry a hydration bladder, some snacks and a light sweater. The Daylite was designed to just be a simple pack that can be attached to your larger Osprey backpacks - and as a lightweight daypack it’s a great option.
Choose the Osprey Daylite Plus if… you want your hiking backpack to also double as a travel or daily use backpack. Not only does it have a larger 20 liter main compartment, but it also includes a padded sleeve for a tablet. And the extra pockets on the front really do come in handy when traveling or commuting.
7 Affordable Goruck GR1 Alternatives
Looking for a good Goruck alternative? We’ve done the research to bring you our top 7 affordable options to the popular Goruck GR1 backpack.
Looking for a good Goruck alternative? We’ve done the research to bring you 7 different affordable options to the popular Goruck GR1 backpack. The GR1 is a quality USA made backpack with tons of great features like a laptop compartment, external molle, and a hydration access port. It comes in 21L or 26L options which are the great sizes for everyday carry.
The backpacks on this list have many similar features as the Goruck GR1 but at a much lower price point. Take a look at our reviews below to explore the unique features each of the backpacks have to offer.
Packs like GORUCK: GR1 Alternatives
One of the main selling points of Goruck bags is the versatility that is embedded into each bag’s design. The Goruck GR1 is the perfect blend of civilian minimalism and tactical functionality. It’s such a good design that other backpack brands were quick to mimic some of its best features. While few bags can offer everything that the GoRuck GR1 offers, a few brands do come close.
Below are our the best bags like Goruck for anyone looking for a good GR1 alternative at a cheaper price point.
Recycled Firefighter The Battalion 24HR
Recycled Firefighter offers a cheaper GoRuck backpack alternative that rivals the GR1 in design and function with the Battalion 24HR. At a 18 liter capacity the Battalion 24HR runs a little smaller than the GR1 but what it lakes in size it makes up in construction, functionality and price. Made out of a tough 1000D Cordura, the Recycled Firefighter 24HR is built to survive everything from weekend rucks to daily carry.
For those looking for an American made bag, you’ll be pleased to know that every Recycled Firefighter backpack is made in the USA yet is available at a much cheaper price point for a lot of the same features you would find in the GR1. If a minimalist design, a clamshell opening and a hydration compartment is what you are looking for, then the Recycled Firefighter Battalion 24HR is the best GoRuck alternative on the market right now.
Volume: 18L
Made in USA in small batches
Clamshell access to main compartment
Made of 1000D Cordura with Mil-Spec YKK zippers
15” laptop compartment
Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 24
The Mystery Ranch Urban Assault is easily one of the best Goruck GR1 alternatives available today thanks to its tough Cordura nylon and robust YKK zipper construction. Although not a clamshell backpack, the Urban Assault instead uses a unique 3-zip zipper design to give you customized access to the main compartment depending on how you open it. Pockets line the inside of the main compartment for convenient organization.
The Urban Assault comes in three sizes. The largest is a 24 liter version that includes a separate laptop compartment. The smaller 18 liter and 21 liter versions have the laptop compartment inside the main compartment and are great for any one who needs a tough ruck pack with a small footprint.
Volume: 24L
Made of 500D Cordura nylon with YKK zippers
Special 3-zip access to main compartment
Padded laptop compartment
Db The Ramverk Backpack
Let’s start out by saying that the Db Ramverk isn’t built to be a rucksack or a tactical backpack. Instead what we have is an urban backpack that has enough innovative features to make it a great Goruck alternative for daily carry.
A sample of these features include an open flat main compartment with internal mesh pockets, separate padded laptop compartment, aluminum hardware, external webbing for attachments and two adjustable straps for securing oversized gear to the exterior of the bag.
What makes the Db Ramverk so special is its patented ABS rib cage construction that replaces traditional foam panels. This construction allows the Ramverk to be incredibly lightweight while still providing great protection to your gear inside.
Volume: 21L
Also available in the larger Ramverk 26L
15” Laptop Compartment
Open flat main compartment
TOPO DESigNS DAYPACK
For those looking for a reliable American made bag for daily carry, the Topo Designs Daypack may be just the ticket. Much like Goruck, the Topo Daypack focuses on a proven minimalist design and rugged materials over flashy bells and whistles.
The Topo Designs Daypack comes in a few different tiered price options with each version getting better in quality the more you are willing to invest. The Daypack Leather is made with a tough 1000D Cordura Nylon construction while the Daypack Heritage Canvas replaces the nylon for a water repellent cotton canvas shell. Both packs feature Made in USA Horween leather bottoms for added protection and a dash of sophistication.
Volume: 21.6L
Made in USA
Made of 1000D Cordura (Daypack Leather)
Internal sleeve fits 15” laptop
Camelbak H.A.W.G Mil Spec Crux Backpack
The Camelbak H.A.W.G is a quality made backpack tough enough for hikes and rucks. It’s main feature is the included Mil-Spec Antidote Reservoir water delivery system that includes a 3 liter water bladder and Quick Link Hydrolock Bite Valve Adapter for easy refilling and use.
The backpack itself features 2 full length main compartments to keep your items secure and organized. The 500D Rip-Stop Cordura is water resistant and MOLLE on the front panel allows for attachment of extra gear. At 23L capacity, the Camelbak H.A.W.G is large enough for your essentials while remaining compact enough to take on a day hike or to use as a daily urban backpack. We highly recommend the Camelbak H.A.W.G to anyone looking for a cheaper quality Goruck backpack alternative for adventuring.
Volume: 23L
Made of 500D Rip-Stop Cordura
Two full length compartments
Includes a Mil Spec reservoir water bladder and exit port with tube.
5.11 Rush 12 Backpack
The 5.11 Rush 12 backpack is a compact tactical backpack made for everyday functionality. The backpack can be broken down into 3 compartments: A roomy main compartment, a smaller bottom front compartment with organizational pockets, and the 1.5 liter hydration pocket for your water bladder. In total, the Rush 12 backpack features 16 different compartments for a variety of items and uses. This includes the fleece-lined pocket for your sunglasses and internal organizer for pens, notepads and other small items. There is no dedicated laptop compartment but a laptop up to 14 inches can easily fit in the main compartment.
The outside of the backpack features an adjustable height sternum strap as well as a contoured yoke shoulder strap system that is adjustable for a comfortable fit. You can also find MOLLE attachments along the front and sides of the exterior of the backpack for the ability to add additional items to your load.The water-resistant 1050D Nylon makes this a great backpack for commuters and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Volume: 24L
MOLLE attachments on both front and sides.
Made of water resistant 1050D Nylon
1.5 liter hydration pocket
3V Gear Subrosa Urban Tech Backpack
3V Gear Subrosa Urban Tech backpack is a great Goruck GR1 alternative for those who want a similar minimalist design but need a backpack for more urban settings. A great feature of the Subrosa is its clamshell admin compartment that is filled with pockets for keeping your daily gear organized. Two padded laptop sleeves give you access to your tech either from the main compartment or from a separate back pocket.
Volume: 30L
Materials: 500D Nylon, YKK Zippers
Internal and external laptop sleeves are hydration and CCW compatible
Clamshell admin compartment makes packing and organizing items easy
14er Tactical Backpack
The 14er Tactical Backpack is a budget-friendly option for those looking for a backpack like Goruck on Amazon at a cheaper price point. The bag includes tons of pocket for daily carry such as a padded laptop sleeve, zippered internal organization and compression straps for days you want to keep it light.
Although the 14er Tactical Backpack runs larger than the GR1 it’s still a great option thanks to its clamshell main compartment and robust MOLLE attachments that allow you to add on gear as you need it. The 14er Tactical Backpack also makes a great CCW backpack thanks to its hook & loop rear pocket that gives you dual access to what you carry inside.
Volume: 35L
Clamshell access to main compartment
MOLLE attachments throughout body
Hydration bladder compatible
Other Brands Like GoRuck
The following brands are for anyone who loves the features of the Goruck GR1 and GR2 but are still curious about the competition. Getting to know your options before a big purchase is a must and luckily there are a few brands that rival Goruck in both quality and design.
Like Goruck, these 3 brands offer American made backpacks with a focus on innovative design and craftsmanship. For those who value build integrity, you are going to love what the following brands have to offer.
Mystery Ranch ASAP pack
Mystery Ranch
Based in Montana, Mystery Ranch makes all of their packs in the USA. The brand has a special relationship with supplying bags for the military which started when the Mystery Branch was approached to make special packs for the Navy SEALS in 2004. Since the brand’s beginning, Mystery Ranch has been known for their dedication to quality, durability and function.
One of our favorite bags is the Mystery Ranch ASAP pack which is the most compact version of their 3-zip series assault packs. The backpack features a unique Y zipper design that allows you to open the backpack from the top like a rucksack and down the middle so that the entire main compartment is easily accessible.
The Brown Buffalo Conceal Backpack US
The Brown Buffalo
The Brown Buffalo is an up and coming brand that focuses on design-driven packs, backpacks and travel accessories. The brand does a great job of striking a balance between style and function.
Those who love the minimalism of Goruck bags will be impressed by The Brown Buffalo Conceal Backpack. The are two versions of the Conceal backpack; an American made version made of ballistic nylon Cordura and a slightly cheaper Water-resistant 420D Nylon version made overseas. These bags are perfect for anyone who wants a more urban backpack for everyday carry but doesn’t want to compromise on the craftsmanship and attention to detail that many tactical bag brands like Goruck provide.
Triple Aught Design Fast Pack Litespeed
Triple Aught Design
Expertly designed. Tough as nails. Made in USA. Triple Aught Design offers some of the most thoughtfully designed American made tactical and urban carry backpacks. Their FAST Collection of backpacks offers some great options for those looking for smaller rucksacks with must-have features such as room for a hydration bladder, hip belt and plenty of MOLLE attachments. We recommend the FAST Pack Litespeed for anyone looking for a medium size rucksack at around 22L capacity.
Although more tactical than the minimalist GoRuck GR1 and GR2, Triple Aught Design’s commitment to quality makes their bags worth a closer look even if you are just looking for a casual everyday backpack with tactical features.
Criteria used for evaluation
Here is a quick rundown on how we chose the backpacks on our list. We made it a point to judge each backpack by how they compared to the Goruck GR1 in style, function and build quality.
Design
The first thing you notice when shopping for a bag is it’s style and design. Goruck has a very specific tactical minimalist style that combines the functionality of a tactical rucksack with a more toned down design. What you get is a military grade pack that can be worn just about anywhere.
Read More
Minimalist Style
While it can be tough to nail down Goruck’s minimal look, the backpacks on our list do a good job at keeping things simple. Each bag, with the exception of the Timbuk2 Q laptop backpack, include the typical tactical offerings of MOLLE attachments and sternum or waist straps without going overboard with too many bells and whistles that distract from their overall design.
Bags like the Propper U.C. backpack and the Grey Ghost Gear Griff Pack are great examples of this simplicity in play. Both bags look like regular backpacks with the exception of front facing MOLLE webbing or in the case of the Grey Ghost Gear Griff pack, some tastefully placed velcro for morale patches on the front pocket.
Opens Flat Design
One of the most popular design features of Goruck backpacks is their clamshell design that allows for the main compartment to open flat. Every backpack on our Goruck GR1 Alternative list shares this clamshell design with the exception of the Camelbak H.A.W.G. and Timbuk2 Q laptop backpack.
Small Form Factor
When it comes to rucking backpacks, the GoRuck GR1 pack is on the smaller side at only 21L and 26L respectively. All of our top picks follow in the same footsteps with the largest backpack being the Grey Ghost Gear Griff Pack at almost 30L capacity. If you are looking for a Goruck GR1 alternative on the smaller side then we recommend the Cannae Legion Day Pack that offers a 21L capacity just like the smaller Goruck GR1.
Function
Along with great design, we took a close look at the functionality each bag had to offer and how it compared to the Goruck GR1. What we found was that many backpacks had some if not all of the same functionality of the Goruck GR1 but at a cheaper price point.
Read More
MOLLE Attachments
The Goruck GR1 backpack features 3 rows of MOLLE webbing on the front, side and inside of the pack and additional MOLLE webbing on the shoulder straps. This allows the pack to be loaded up with additional storage and gear attachments.
Unlike other tactical bag designs, the simple MOLLE placement on Goruck packs is a popular selling point. Goruck keeps the MOLLE attachments to a minimum while still providing plenty of options for adding gear as needed. We think that the Propper U.C. backpack and Camelbak H.A.W.G. are excellent example of bags like Goruck that keep their MOLLE webbing design simple. But if lots of MOLLE webbing is your thing, we recommend going with the 5.11 Rush 12 backpack which is fully loaded with MOLLE webbing on the front, sides and shoulder straps.
Hydration Bladder
Goruck includes an exit port for a hydration tube in each one of their GR bags. We made sure to look for similar backpacks that support hydration bladders. If you are looking for a backpack similar to the Goruck GR1 with hydration bladder support our favorites are the Camelbak H.A.W.G. which supports a 3L water bladder and the Cannae Legion Day Pack which supports a 2L hydration bladder.
Ruck Plate Capability
Goruck makes the rucking backpack with the GR1 pack and we made sure to look for similar bags that can hold up to the rigorous needs of a ruck event. One main feature we looked out for is each backpack’s ability to hold ruck plates. The best we have found is the Condor Frontier Outdoor pack, a smaller backpack that has a robust laptop compartment that can hold one or two plates as well as a separate water bladder compartment that can double as a ruck plate compartment. Other backpacks that can also comfortably hold ruck plates in their laptop compartments is the 5.11 Origin Pack, 5.11 Rush 12 and the Cannae Legion Day Pack.
Everyday Capability
Each of the backpacks were handpicked with everyday carry in mind. Whether you are in law enforcement or a student, the bags on this list should have the ability to carry daily items such as laptops and extra clothes. Since each backpack has some sort of MOLLE webbing or velcro attachment, those looking for a Goruck camera bag will be able to attach a camera field pocket for easy storage of camera bodies and lenses.
Some people simply want something like a Goruck laptop bag without too many of the tactical features. In this case we recommend the Timbuk2 Q laptop backpack for the most urban carry features such as room for your laptop accessories, books, water bottles, etc.
Build and Quality
Build quality is what separates Goruck bags from other similar tactical backpacks. Goruck proudly claims their bags are “bomb proof”. This is achieved by building a bag from the ground up with the very best materials and extensive testing to make sure the bag holds up to heavy use. We chose bags that can compete with the Goruck GR1 in terms of quality but at a cheaper price point.
Read More
Material Durability
Goruck GR1 backpacks are made of 1000D Cordura, YKK zippers and ultra tough stitching that is strength tested at over 400lbs. Although few brands come close to Goruck’s material durability we did find some solid competitors. Both the Propper U.C. backpack and 5.11 Rush 12 are made of ultra tough 1000D and 1050D Cordura respectively. While brands like Mystery Ranch, Triple Aught Design and The Brown Buffalo all offer meticulously designed backpacks that compete with Goruck in terms of American made build quality and materials used.
Warranty
Very few brands can beat Goruck’s Scars lifetime guarantee. The guarantee covers defect in workmanship and materials on any Goruck product for life. But we did find some brands that offer impressive warranties with their backpacks. Timbuk2 and Camelbak both offer a lifetime warranty on all of their bags and backpacks. Cannae offers a 1 year warranty with each of their bags.
Availability
Lastly, a big factor in which backpacks to include in this Goruck backpack alternative list was whether or not each bag was easily available in stores or online. Goruck backpacks are not currently available on Amazon, but we made sure to include Amazon available bags. If Amazon isn’t your thing than you’ll be pleased to know that these bags are also available on each manufacturer’s website respectively. We made sure not to include any special edition backpacks that had limited runs and instead focused on staple designs from each brand we featured.