14 Best Expandable Backpacks For Travel, Laptop & Commuting
The concept behind an expandable backpack is pretty clever - instead of rotating through different sized bags you can simply own one that adapts to different carry situations. This allows for the same backpack to be used for daily commutes, weekend trips and everything in between.
Need to do some shopping after work? No problem, expand the bag to fit extra items! Need a daypack once you arrive to your travel destination? Easy, compress the backpack down to a manageable daypack size. The versatility built into an expandable backpack can’t be beat.
Expandable backpacks usually come in two different flavors: backpacks with expandable zippered compartments and rolltop backpacks that expand and compress as needed. In this buying guide we take a look at both and pick out some of our favorites.
Knack Pack Series 2 expandable backpack
Expandable Backpack with a Compressed Compartment
Some expandable backpacks feature a zipper that opens up a compressed expanding compartment. These backpacks are great if you need a bag that can be used for both daily carry and travel as you can easily switch between the two modes. The extra room will stay concealed and out of the way until you need it.
Expanded space can come in the form of either a separate “travel” compartment for stashing clothing much like a suitcase or just an expanding main compartment.
WANDRD PRVKE expandable roll top backpack
Expandable Rolltop Backpack
Given the nature of their design, nearly all rolltop backpacks are expandable. Roll top backpacks comprise of one large main compartment that can be accessed from the top of the bag and held closed with a strap and buckle.
When you need more room you can “roll up” the rolltop to expand the main compartment and on lighter days you can “roll down” the rolltop to compress the backpack down to a smaller size.
Best Expandable Backpacks
Knack Pack Series 2
The Knack Pack Series 2 is an expandable backpack designed for both daily carry and travel thanks to its completely hidden “travel” compartment that opens like a suitcase for easy packing when utilized.
When compressed, the Knack Pack keeps a slim profile that’s perfect for work, school and commuting. The impressive array of internal pockets and compartments for keeping you organized is just one of the reasons why the Knack Pack Series 2 is our top choice when it comes to expandable backpacks.
Read more about the Knack Pack Series 2
Features at a glance:
Sleek professional design
Available in Medium and Large sizes
Medium Knack Pack: 24L (unexpanded) 35L (expanded)
Large Knack Pack: 30L (unexpanded) 40L (expanded)
Side zipper laptop compartment
Amazing interior organization - tons of pockets
Hidden side water bottle pocket for a cleaner look
The Knack Pack Series 2 has to be our favorite expandable backpack currently available thanks to its sleek style, amazing pocket placement and unique expandable design. Although there are other backpacks that offer expandable travel compartments, few are designed as well the Knack Pack.
Each Knack Pack offers two separate compartments - the main compartment for daily packing and the hidden travel compartment that opens like a suitcase. And when we say hidden travel compartment we really mean hidden! When compressed, the Knack Pack looks like any other regular sized backpack thanks to its special patent pending expandable design.
Knack also offers the Knack Pack Series 1 in more size and color options. This is a great choice for those who love the concept of the Knack Pack but would like a more affordable option. If you are curious, we recommend our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison for a deep dive on the differences between the two bags.
Mission Workshop The Rambler
Built to last a lifetime, this completely weatherproof American made backpack features an expandable main compartment and multiple modes of carry to fit your specific carry needs. When compressed the Rambler offers a slim profile and 22 liters of carrying capacity with the ability to expand to a whopping 44 liters on busier days.
Need an even larger expandable backpack? Check out the Mission Workshop Vandal that expands up to an insane 64 liters for longer trips and larger hauls.
Read more about the Mission Workshop Rambler
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 22L (unexpanded) 44L (expanded)
Weatherproof construction
13” laptop/tablet pocket (Up to 17” laptop can fit inside main compartment)
Switch between Roll-Top and Flap-Down closure
Made in USA with a Guaranteed Forever warrantee
If you are looking for a rugged “buy once” expandable backpack then The Rambler is it. The construction on The Rambler is top-notch: tough water-resistant materials and urethane coated zippers, pin-pointed adjustable shoulder straps and an internal frame sheet for comfortable carry no matter what you pack inside.
When compressed at 22 liters the Mission Workshop Rambler is about the size of a commuter daypack. What makes The Rambler one of the best expandable backpacks is the sheer amount of expansion you get. Once expanded you get double the amount of space at 44 liters!
But what if you only need a little bit more room? The compressions straps on the sides of the main compartment give you the option to match the size of the contents inside. Load adjusters on the top of the shoulder straps also allow you to dial in the perfect weight distribution for a more comfortable carry. These small adjustment details is what makes the Mission Workshop Rambler a winner when it comes to fit and function.
Nomatic Navigator Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Navigator is an impressive travel pack that certainly lives up to the hype. It does two things very well: organization and comfort. With dozens of pockets for essentials, incredibly thoughtful comfort features and a generous expandable packing compartment that opens like a suitcase - the Nomatic Navigator is the one travel bag to rule them all.
Read more about the Nomatic Navigator
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 32L (unexpanded) 41L (expanded)
Water resistant zippers and materials
17” laptop compartment
Ultra comfortable breathable back panel and shoulder harness
Large expandable packing compartment
Tons of pockets for organizing smaller items
Best In Class Organization
Nomatic bags are known for their insane organization and the Navigator is no exception. The Navigator Travel Backpack features a generous accessories compartment which is lined with multiple pockets for items such tech accessories, pens, headphones and notebooks. This compartment also includes a special RFID safe pocket for storing valuables while on the move. A rear padded laptop compartment makes grabbing your tech quick and easy.
As for the main compartment, this backpack opens like a suitcase to reveal a large expandable packing area with even more zip pockets for organizing your stuff. The Nomatic Navigator gives you a standard packing room of 32 liters but allows to be expanded an additional 9 liters for longer trips. When fully expanded the Nomatic Navigator allows you to pack for around 5 days of travel!
Seriously Comfortable
What makes this travel backpack special is its focus on comfort that blows many other similar expandable travel bags out of the water.
The Nomatic Navigator features aluminum stays that run down the back panel to help distribute weight evenly from your shoulder down to your waist. The back panel itself is generously cushioned and designed to maximize breathability for dry and comfortable wear when carrying the bag for long periods of time.
Load lifters on the top of the shoulder straps allow for dialed in adjustments for a more comfortable experience when the bag gets heavy. And the Navigator also includes adjustable and removable waist belt and sternum strap for even more comfort customization.
Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack
A tough water resistant exterior, great pocket placement and a sleek design easily makes the Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack one of our favorite expanding backpacks to date.
Equipped with an expanding main compartment, the Parker Commuter Backpack is a backpack for work, school and travel that doesn’t disappoint when it comes to carry versatility. The main compartment quickly expands from 26 liters to 35 liters using a wrap-around zipper while the magnetic compression straps allow you to hone in the perfect bag depth based on your load.
Read more about the Timbuk2 Commuter
Features at a glance
Capacity: 26L (unexpanded) 35L (expanded)
15” padded laptop compartment
Adjustable and removable sternum and waist straps
3 different front panel pockets for quick-access to sunglasses, bike lock, keys and more
Reflective panel on the front for safer commutes in low light
Includes a rain fly stored in special pocket
The Timbuk2 Parker quickly goes from 26 liters to 35 liters by engaging a wrap-around zipper making this expandable backpack perfect for shopping errands, travel and other situations where you might need the extra room.
An impressive design feature are the multiple front pockets that line the front of the backpack. The top pocket is fleece-lined for quick-access to sunglasses or a phone while the middle pocket features a magnetic flap and is large enough for a bike lock and features a key-leash for safekeeping of your keys. An additional bottom pocket gives you even more quick-access storage.
Inside the main compartment is where you will find a padded 15” laptop sleeve and an extra slip pocket for storage. Timbuk2 has designed the Parker Commuter so you can grab your laptop from the main compartment or through a separate side zipper for easy-access when on the move.
Peak Design Travel Backpack
Peak Designs offers two expandable travel backpacks for both short and longer trips with their Travel Backpack 30L and Travel Backpack 45L. Both backpacks offer dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves, a great array of pockets and compartments for organization and an expandable design that allows you to switch between travel bag and daypack sizes. A weatherproof exterior also provides peace of mind when exploring rainy cities or outdoor destinations.
Read more about the Peak Design Travel Backpack
Features at a glance:
Available in two sizes
30L Travel Backpack: 27L (compressed) 33L (expanded)
45L Travel Backpack: 30L (compressed) 45L (expanded)
Made of a super tough weatherproof nylon canvas external shell with a waterproof bottom liner
Dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves
Great internal organization for travel packing and tech
Lifetime Guarantee
As an expandable travel backpack, both the Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L and Travel Backpack 45L can be compressed and expanded as needed. Expand the backpack to its full capacity on travel days and compress it down once at your destination to use as a daypack. A tough weatherproof exterior also makes the Travel Backpack a great choice for busy days in rainy cities or outdoor destinations.
Matein Expandable Laptop Backpack
Available in 15.6” and 17” laptop versions, Matein offers a feature-rich daily laptop and travel backpack at an affordable price. The main compartment expands to give you an extra 7 liters of capacity when needed while features like an external USB charging port, a separate protective laptop and tablet compartment and tons of pockets for organization makes this expandable laptop backpack perfect for those who want big features on a small budget.
Read more about the Matein Expandable Laptop Backpack
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 29.5L (unexpanded) 36.8L (expanded)
External USB port for charging on the go
Separate compartment with padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Hidden pockets in back panel and shoulder strap for valuables
Large front compartment for organizing smaller items
If you are looking for an expanding backpack on a budget then the Matein Expandable Laptop Backpack is probably your best choice. You can usually grab one for under $50 and it has a few features that are normally only found in much more expensive bags.
The hidden pockets are some of our favorites features. On the front of the backpack you have a discreet flap pocket that can comfortably fit an iPad, notebook or similar flat item. The back panel also offers a sneaky zippered pocket that’s perfect for a passport or wallet. This hidden pocket is perfect for keeping your valuables safe when commuting and traveling in crowded areas.
As for quality, it’s worth noting that a cheap backpack won’t have the same top quality as you would find in a $200 travel bag. Our general rule is that when it comes to bags that need to protect your gear you should always buy the best you can comfortably afford. But our experience with Matein bags have been pretty positive. Their pocket placement is intuitive and the fabrics used don’t feel as flimsy as you may assume at this price point. In fact when it comes to cheap Amazon bags, Matein bags are pretty robust and their features are impressive for the price.
Black Ember Forge
The Black Ember Forge is a rugged waterproof convertible bag that can be used as a backpack, soft-brief and shoulder-bag thanks to it’s tuck-away straps and carefully placed handles.
The Forge also converts from a 20 liter day pack to a 30 liter travel bag with the tug of a hidden zipper. The expandable nature of The Forge makes it adaptable and versatile enough for daily commuting, business meetings and weekend trips. If you are looking for a one-bag solution that can adapt to a busy lifestyle then the Black Ember Forge may be just what you are looking for.
Read more about the Black Ember Forge
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (unexpanded) 30L (expanded)
Waterproof: Made of waterproof Cordura textile with YKK Aquaguard zippers
Clamshell compartments unzip 360 degrees for easy access
Tech-focused design: spots for laptop, tablet, chargers and accessories
Ergonomic 3D shoulder straps for max comfort in backpack mode
Black Ember admits that The Forge is a bit over-engineered but we are glad it is. The Forge is built like a tank and can handle busy lifestyles thanks to its rugged waterproof construction and premium materials. Black Ember specializes in waterproof bags like the popular Citadel R2 and The Forge continues the tradition by offering you a completely waterproof 3-Layer Cordura shell, YKK Aquagaurd zippers throughout and aircraft grade aluminum hardware that’s built to last.
We really appreciate Black Ember bags for focusing on busy tech-centric lifestyles. The Forge has spots for all of your tech and is designed around quick and easy access to these items. A suspended laptop sleeve offers great protection and is TSA compliant for travel days. The front pocket also acts as an “essentials station” with pockets for items like a wallet, pens, phone, mobile charger and your keys. This design guarantees that you can wear The Forge as a backpack, briefcase or shoulder bag and always have quick access to the items you need most.
Nomatic Backpack
With dozens of innovative pockets and features, the Nomatic Backpack has changed the game of daily carry and organization. One clever feature is the expanding main compartment that gives you 20% more room for packing in those extra items on busy days.
Read more about the Nomatic Backpack
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (unexpanded) 24L (expanded)
Made of durable water resistant materials
Backpack holds its shape even when empty for a clean and professional look
Insane amounts of pockets and special features for organizing your gear
Clamshell main compartment that opens fully for easy packing
The Nomatic Backpack has to be one of our favorite daily carry backpacks for its many innovative features, robust high quality construction and versatile design.
As an expandable backpack, Nomatic offers an extra 4 liters of expansion in the main compartment that’s perfect for impromptu shopping after work or to utilize on gym days where you need to carry a few extra items. To expand the Nomatic Backpack you simply have to unzip the wrap-around zipper to release the compressed compartment. On light days, this extra room stays nice and hidden giving the Nomatic Backpack a slim and sleek profile.
Although the Nomatic Backpack is designed to primarily be used as a backpack, you can also tuck away the shoulder straps and convert it into a briefcase on days where you need a more professional look.
Incase A.R.C. Travel Pack
Incase offers an attractive expandable travel backpack option for those who are serious about safeguarding their expensive tech. Each A.R.C. Travel Pack offers a protective tech compartment for both laptop and tablet carry, plenty of pockets for accessories and a must have travel features such as a dedicated shoe compartment and expandable packing compartment that adapts as you need it.
Read more about the Incase A.R.C. Travel Pack
Features at a glance:
Main compartment opens like a suitcase for easy packing
Expandable design gives you an extra 3-inches of packing room when needed
Made of premium eco-friendly water resistant materials
Accessories compartment with pockets for smaller items (phone, wallet, cables)
Separate protective laptop compartment with padded laptop and tablet sleeves
YKK weather resistant zippers on tech compartments
The Incase A.R.C. Travel Pack has to be the best travel backpack Incase has offered to date thanks to its handsome design and great attention to detail.
The A.R.C. Travel Pack is made of four major compartments: the front organizer pocket for easy access to your smaller essentials, a roomy dedicated shoe compartment to keep dirty shoes separate, the main expanding packing compartment and a rear tech compartment with padded sleeves for both a laptop and tablet. Apple users will love the tech sleeves made especially to hold up to a 16” Macbook Pro and up to an 12.9” iPad Pro which eliminates guessing if your tech will fit.
What makes the Incase’s A.R.C. collection stand apart from their previous travel bag options is its focus on sustainability. The A.R.C. Travel Pack is made out of recycled polyester with a water-repellent coating for maximum protection from the elements. Even the back panel, shoulder harness and handles are made with eco-friendly Ortholite Impressions foam. This foam offers incredible breathability and moisture-management to prevent bacterial growth for a more comfortable and hygienic experience.
Opsrey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack 26+6
The Osprey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack was designed with strict airline bag restrictions in mind. When compressed, the Daylite fits most accepted personal item dimensions with a modest 26 liter capacity but it can quickly transform into a 32 liter carry on backpack as needed. This versatility makes the Daylite a great choice for frequent flyers looking for a stylish and reliable travel bag they can take anywhere.
Read more about the Osprey Daylite Travel Pack
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 26L (unexpanded) 32L (expanded)
Airscape back panel to keep you cool and comfortable
Two side stretch water bottle pockets
Designed to fit most personal item and carry on dimensions
Laptop sleeve inside main compartment
Opens like a suitcase for easy packing
Shoulder straps can tuck away for easy overhead storage on airplanes
The Osprey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack does two things very well: comfort and simplicity.
Osprey specializes in hiking backpacks with an emphasis on comfort, breathability and proper fit. The brand does a great job at carrying over this design ethos into their travel packs by including their own Airscape technology on the back panel and shoulder straps for cool and comfortable wear during long travel days.
When it comes to pockets and compartments, the Daylite Travel Pack does a great job at not overwhelming you with too many pockets and compartments. The bag is made up of a main expandable packing compartment, a front organizer compartment for smaller items and two super stretchy side pockets for water bottles, snacks and other items you need immediate access to. Grabbing your laptop is easy thanks to a second zipper that gives you quick-access to where the laptop is stored.
This type of simpler design is perfect for those who aren’t to keen of some of the other over-engineered expandable travel backpacks on this list. Plus each Osprey Daylite Travel Pack is made of eco-friendly and recycled materials and topped off with a PFC-free DWR coating for extra water resistance.
The expandable nature of the Osprey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack 26+6 means that it can be used both as a personal item backpack and carry on backpack for airline travel.
Rolltop Expandable Backpacks
WANDRD PRVKE
The WANDRD PRVKE is a camera/laptop/daily driver backpack with a very special dual access design. The adjustable roll top gives you an extra 5 liters of space inside the main compartment while the backside zipper gives you full clamshell access to the items inside and makes grabbing your laptop and tablet a breeze. If you can’t choose between a traditional rolltop bag and a zippered backpack then the WANDRD PRVKE is the backpack to look at.
We recommend the WANDRD PRVKE if you are looking for an expandable rolltop backpack for it’s heavy duty aluminum buckle and thoughtfully designed looped strap that makes adjusting the capacity simple, easy and very secure. Trust us, this is just one of those backpacks that feels as good as it looks once you have it in front you.
Chrome Barrage Cargo
The Chrome Barrage Cargo is completely waterproof and built like a tank. The outer netting comes in handy for stashing oversized items like a bike helmet, pair of shoes or whatever you heart desires.
What you need to know about the Chrome Barrage Cargo is that it’s completely waterproof and built like a tank. Just look at the thing - it means business.
The Barrage Cargo is made with a welded waterproof liner and abrasion-resistant materials for peace of mind during hectic city commutes. The outer netting comes in handy for stashing oversized items like a bike helmet, pair of shoes or whatever you heart desires. The expandable rolltop gives you anywhere from 18 to 22 liters of room and is easily adjustable with a beefy cinch webbing and buckle mechanism. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack
We recommend the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Backpack if you need a versatile lightweight bag without too many bells and whistles. Not everyone needs nets, a dozen buckles and hundreds of pockets.
The Fieldsmith Roll Top consists of a roomy 30 liter main compartment that can be expanded using the roll top. A zipper on the side of the backpack allows you to quickly grab your laptop from the padded sleeve without disturbing the rest of your gear while a zip pocket up front gives you extra room for smaller essentials. We love the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top as a grab and go bag for days outdoors and short trips plus the different color and pattern options just make life a little bit more fun.
XRAY Expandable Roll Top Backpack
The XRAY Roll Top Backpack is perfect for anyone looking for a small expandable backpack at an affordable price. What sets this rolltop backpack apart is the zipper at the end of roll top that allows you to fully extend the main compartment without worrying if your stuff is going to spill out once you get moving.
The max capacity of the XRAY Expandable Roll Top Backpack is 22.2 liters when fully expanded which a good size if you like to just carry the essentials but could use the extra room on busier days.
