10 Best Men's Backpacks For Work that are Professional and Stylish
Discover our top picks of men's work backpacks that professional and stylish, handpicked for your daily commute and business travels.
Our hunt for the best business backpack for men began here. The mission was clear: to find the perfect men's backpack that hits that sweet spot of professional style, comfort, and functionality. Picture a backpack that seamlessly transitions from morning commute to business meeting. A backpack that not only keeps you organized, but elevates your professional style with thoughtful design.
Does that perfect backpack exist?
We found that many brands now offer modern backpacks for business professionals that rival more traditional forms of business carry such as a traditional briefcase or messenger bag. In fact, today it's easier than ever to opt-in for a carefully crafted business laptop backpack made of premium materials that will look great with a suit.
In this buying guide, we tested a ton of backpacks to find our top picks for the best men's work backpacks. These office backpacks check all the boxes for professional and stylish carry. More importantly, they come equipped with the features you need to ensure comfortable business carry during your daily commute or your next important business trip. From padded laptop sleeves and pockets for business cards to heavy duty fabrics and water-resistant designs: whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, finding the best business backpack for men has never been easier.
How We Chose These Backpacks
To make life easier we used specific criteria when choosing the men's backpacks featured in this buying guide. Although there are tons of great tech and urban backpacks on the market, only some designs are professional enough to wear to work. But by focusing on sleek designs, business-friendly pockets and high quality construction it became easier to narrow down to a few of our favorite models.
Shown In Photo Above:
Troubadour Apex Backpack - Water resistant men's work backpack with lots of pockets for daily essentials.
Harber London Office Backpack - Functional backpack for business professionals with high quality construction.
Nomatic Backpack - Sleek expandable laptop backpack that can convert to a briefcase.
Knack Pack Series 2 - Daily backpack with a hidden expandable travel compartment
Sleek Designs for Professionals
In our quest to find the best men's backpacks for work, our focus was on selecting sleek designs that seamlessly fit into a professional environment. This meant steering clear of hiking backpacks with unruly dangling straps and attachment points for outdoor gear, as well as school bookbags that look like they belong inside a high school classroom. Brands like Jansport and The North Face, known for their more casual styles, didn't make the cut in this category. Instead, we zeroed in on backpacks with a simple design that can effortlessly elevate your look, whether you're navigating bustling morning commute or stepping into crucial client meeting.
In this list, we intentionally excluded bag styles that were too casual. However, if your work environment allows for a more relaxed style, we encourage you to explore our dedicated list of the best business casual backpacks, where you'll find a range of great options.
Storage for Daily Essentials
Our selection process also prioritized backpacks equipped with the right pockets and compartments to conquer the work day. It turns out that although some men's backpacks look great, they function poorly due to tight main compartments and a lack of extra pockets for important items. At the very least an everyday backpack for work needs to keep your daily essentials organized and easily accessible. This includes separate compartments for a padded laptop sleeve and bulkier items.
External pockets, including a dedicated water bottle holder and smaller pockets, add to the convenience of a work backpack. These features mean you won't have to rummage through your bag searching for a water bottle or fumbling for smaller items like business cards or keys. By offering designated spaces for various items, a backpack with ample pockets and compartments not only streamlines your daily routine but also ensures that you're well-prepared and efficient in a professional setting.
Shown Above: Troubadour Ridge men’s backpack with water resistant zippers and fabric
High Quality Construction
Whether you have a preference for a timeless leather backpack or a tough bag made of water-resistant materials, we know that the choice of materials plays an important role in achieving a professional look. These are backpacks that will be used in daily commutes and during hectic business travel - their quality should reflect that. Our selection process looked at men's backpacks that hit a sweet spot with great water resistance, high quality zippers and premium textiles. If a brand offers a great warranty with a purchase, we will make sure to mention that as well.
Great Comfort Features
It's no secret that a work backpack becomes an extension of one's daily routine, a companion for professionals through bustling commutes and long travel days. With this in mind, the perfect men's backpack for work is as comfortable as it is stylish.
This is why we paid attention to features like the comfort of the shoulder straps and back panel. A good backpack has great weight distribution through padded adjustable straps (and a sternum strap on a larger pack). A breathable back panel also makes life a little better on warm weather days. Features like these were all taken into consideration when compiling this list.
Best Business Backpacks for Men - Tested!
Troubadour Apex Backpack
The Troubadour Apex backpack is our top pick for business professionals seeking both style and practicality. Its clean design is tailored for the workplace and we can't help but drool a little over its sophisticated waterproof textile and vegan leather construction. This really is one of those bags that looks as good in real life as it does on the website photos.
Inside, you'll find a roomy main compartment that's tailor-made for your work essentials with pockets for pens, tech chargers and other smaller items. In the rear you'll find a large separate laptop compartment for a 17-inch device. However, some of our favorite features are found on the outside. The Apex includes two side pockets for water bottles that blend in neatly with the bag when not in use for a cleaner look. There is even a hidden pocket on the back for secure yet easy access to a cell phone.
The Apex looks sharp and maintains a slim profile when worn, making it an ideal companion for men's business wear like suits. Unlike many work backpacks that can seem bulky, the Apex offers ample room inside for your work gear, leaving space for extras like lunch or a change of clothes. Additionally, it's highly water-resistant, ensuring your valuable items stay protected from rain or snow during your daily commute. The Troubadour Apex is the perfect companion for everyday carry and travel, offering a blend of style and functionality for the modern professional setting.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 25L
Highly water-resistant construction
Sophisticated design with slim profile
Quick access pockets on the outside for a phone, keys and small items
17" padded laptop compartment
Harber London Office Backpack
Meet the Harber London Office Backpack, a bag designed for professionals who want to look sharp while keeping their work items within reach. What makes the Office Backpack special is that each pack is handmade by expert craftsman in Spain. And you can definitely see the quality difference when you handle this bag when compared to cheaper mass-produced bags.
The most impressive design feature are the amount of pockets and compartments Harber London was able to pack into this backpack. The inside is filled with tech pockets for the modern workplace. You have a padded internal laptop pocket along with a separate tablet pocket. Harber London even includes a special slip pocket for an Apple Pencil.
The exterior pockets are just as impressive. Along with a zippered front pocket there is another hidden admin compartment with with small pockets for all the small personal items you'll need on a daily basis. Here is where you can store your keys, wallet and business cards.
As a daily men's backpack, there isn't much that the Office Backpack lacks. At 18-liters its the perfect size for men who need a slim backpack for professional work settings. It also does well as a business travel backpack thanks to its trolley sleeve and compact size that makes it a great personal item backpack on flights.
To learn more about what this backpack can do, check out our detailed Harber London Office Backpack review.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 18L
Premium construction: full-grain leather, aviation grade aluminum buckles
Compact profile for a professional look
16-inch laptop sleeve + 13-inch tablet sleeve
Swiveling adjustable shoulder straps for the perfect fit
Nomatic Backpack
The Nomatic Backpack can be best described as the Swiss Army Knife of professional backpacks. For your everyday office needs, its impressive 20+ pockets and compartments ensure you stay organized throughout your hectic day. Transitioning into a sleek business briefcase for that important meeting is as simple as tucking away the shoulder straps. And the main compartment even expands on the days you need more packing room.
The Nomatic Backpack shines as a bag for daily commuting, thanks to its clamshell backpack design, which opens wide to reveal an array of interior pockets for easy access to your essentials. Among its standout features is the "tech panel," providing a padded laptop sleeve, sleeves for a tablet and important documents, as well as dedicated pockets for electronic devices such as a mouse, keyboard, portable charger, and hard drives.
For business travel, you'll appreciate the Nomatic Backpack's trolley sleeve for easy attachment to rolling luggage, along with a sneaky hidden pocket for securing valuables like your passport or wallet. Nomatic's innovative cable pass-through port makes it a practical charging backpack; just connect your portable charger inside the bag and route the cable to a designated top pocket, ensuring easy access to charging during long workdays.
The Nomatic Backpack is a testament to great design and feature-packed functionality, all wrapped in a sleek, high-quality package. As a men's work backpack, it truly checks all the boxes. Take a closer look at what this bag has to offer in our Nomatic Backpack review.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (expandable to 24L)
Dozens of pockets and compartments to keep you organized
16 inch laptop sleeve
Clamshell main compartment for easy packing
Stowable shoulder straps - go from backpack to briefcase in seconds
Knack Pack Series 2
The Knack Pack Series 2 was designed from the ground up for business professionals who need a stylish backpack that can do it all. In addition to a spacious main compartment, the Knack Pack Series 2 has some of the most generous interior pockets for organizing work essentials we have seen yet.
The large front compartment features tons of pockets for everything from tech charging cables to pens and business cards. Each compartment is also lined with zip pockets for bulkier items like laptop chargers and headphones. But far more impressive are the sneaky exterior pockets. Each Knack Pack comes with a hidden water bottle pocket plus a secret anti-theft pocket for valuables.
We recommend the Knack Pack to frequent business travelers who need just one reliable backpack for daily commutes to the office and business trips. Each Knack Pack features a hidden travel compartment that expands when needed for packing. No compression straps needed! Just unzip the hidden compartment and you have an instant travel backpack. Other great travel features include lockable zippers and a trolley sleeve for attaching the bag to rolling luggage.
As far as professional backpacks go, few are as jammed packed with features as the Knack Pack Series 2. Along with being expandable, the Knack Pack Series 2 is also a convertible backpack. You can tuck away the shoulder straps and transform it from a backpack to a business briefcase in seconds thanks to the side carry handle. This has to be one of our favorite features and just one of the reason the Knack Pack Series is one of the most versatile work backpacks for men available today.
Knack offers the Knack Pack in two styles, to learn more about which backpack is right for you check out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24-35L (Medium Knack Pack)
15-inch laptop compartment
Expandable hidden travel compartment
Lots of interior pockets for organization
Adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap are great for carrying heavy loads
Troubadour Ridge Backpack
The Troubadour Ridge is a stylish backpack for men who value organization, quality and comfort. The first feature you'll notice are the three smaller pockets on the outside. These exterior pockets are great for stashing smaller items like keys, a phone and earbuds. Trust us, these pockets come in handy during work commutes where quick access is important. The outside also gives you access to side pockets that can be used as an umbrella or water bottle holder.
What we like about this business backpack is that it gives you a generous 25 liters of storage while still staying compact. It's a deceptively roomy backpack with enough room for bulky items like a lunch or change of clothes. The main compartment is lined with pockets for office essentials like pens, a laptop charger, and other tech accessories.
A separate compartment gives you access to a laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve and extra room for important documents. This dedicated compartment allows you to grab your electronic devices without disturbing the rest of your packing.
Like all Troubadour bags, the Ridge backpack features a water-resistant coating on the fabric and each compartment is protect with water-resistant zippers. It also features vegan leather trim throughout, making it a good alternative to a leather backpack. We are also big fans of the Ridge's ergonomic backpack straps. These shoulder straps are very cushioned and feature an S-curve for better weight distribution. It's safe to say that if you are looking for a solid office backpack for everyday use then you won't be disappointed with the Troubadour Ridge.
Key Features
Capacity: 25L
Highly water-resistant construction with upscale vegan leather trim
Great organization with lots of interior and exterior pockets
Trolley sleeve and lockable zippers for business travel
More Great Men's Work Backpacks
In addition to our top picks, we put together a shortlist of men's work backpacks to consider.
Stubble & Co Everyday Backpack
The Everyday Backpack by Stubble & Co is the perfect match for work commuters who are serious about having a single bag that can do it all.
Built from the ground up as a daily laptop backpack, the Everyday Backpack is one of Stubble & Co's sleekest work bags, thanks to its weatherproof construction, clever storage compartments, and minimalist design to give you an upscale look at the office.
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Key Features:
Dimensions: 11.8” W x 18.1” H x 5.5” D
Capacity: 20L
Materials: 600D Recycled PET, Tarpaulin base, YKK Aquaguard zippers
Weight: 1.98 lbs
Laptop compartment: Up to 16”
A Better Work Backpack
The Stubble & Co Everyday Backpack was originally designed with commuters in mind, and you can see the inspiration in its head-to-toe weather-resistant construction and cushioned back panel and shoulder straps for all-day comfort.
As a backpack for working professionals, Stubble & Co does a great job of offering an understated design with minimal branding. The recycled PET material also makes the exterior easy to wipe down so that your backpack always looks fresh.
Each Everyday Backpack is equipped with a separate rear laptop compartment that can fit a laptop up to 16 inches. The roomy 20-liter main compartment is the perfect size for daily work items without making the bag too bulky. If slim and professional is what you are looking for in a work backpack, then the Everyday Backpack may be just the ticket.Description text goes here
tomtoc TechPack-T73
Admittedly, the tomtoc TechPack-T73 has a more casual style than many of other backpacks on this list with a sporty waterproof X-Pac material instead of leather or nylon. But we still consider the TechPack-73 to be one the best business backpacks for those who need spacious compartments for daily items or travel. The 30-liters of storage space and great exterior pockets makes it great for work commuters and business travelers alike.
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Key Features
Capacity: 30L
Lots of pockets for organization
Dedicated compartment for tech: 16" laptop and 12.9" tablet sleeves
Plush padded straps and back panel for comfort
Serious Organization for Work Carry
For tech carry, the rear compartment features padded sleeves for multiple electronic devices. The padded sleeves can accomodate both a laptop and tablet while important documents can be stored inside a document sleeve in the main compartment. Technically, you can even use the TechPack as a dual laptop backpack by using the padded document sleeve.
The external pockets are also some of the best we have seen. These pockets gives you quick access to small items like keys, wallet, phone and a water bottle. The two zipper pockets on the front are even protected with water-resistant zippers for some extra protection. After all is said and done, the tomtoc TechPack-T73 is easily one of the most functional backpacks we have tested for working professionals.
Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack
The Classic Leather backpack by Samsonite is a more affordable leather business laptop backpack that will have no problem finding its place at client meetings.
Where the backpack really shines is in its compartments and organizers. Everything from your laptop and tablet to your files and business cards will have a home. For a bag that can carry so much, the Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack is surprisingly compact and handsomely sleek.
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Key Features:
Dimensions: 18.5” x 12” x 6.5”
Material: Full Grain Columbian Leather
Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”
Two phone pockets, two laptop sleeves
A Sophisticated Leather Backpack for Business Professionals.
What we like most about Samsonite is that they offer backpacks similar to Tumi or Briggs & Riley but at a much more affordable price. For a leather backpack we think that the Classic Leather Backpack has struck a comfortable price-point between affordable and quality.
The Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack is perfect for anyone who wants a premium work backpack with modern tech carry features. This backpack makes it super easy to carry both your work and personal tech, thanks to its two laptop sleeves and two phone pockets. That right, two!
Many backpacks for business professionals don't have a well-rounded approach to carry. These backpacks either don't have enough compartments for proper tech carry or look too casual to wear to the office. The Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack, however, is incredibly office-appropriate while still having the storage features we have come to expect from more casual laptop backpacks.
The backpack itself is slim enough to avoid the awkward bulk that many men's backpacks have and the leather construction also provides a refined look that's missing from most fabric bags.
Briggs & Riley @work Large Cargo Backpack
At 33-liters, the Brigga & Riley @work Large Cargo Backpack is easily the largest backpack featured on this list. This is thanks to its smart three-section design, offering dedicated pockets and compartments for all your business essentials.
The backpack's interior is not only practical but also protective, with an RFID blocking pocket to safeguard personal data, making it ideal for business travelers. It even has elastic slip pockets for cords and USB drives, keeping everything neatly organized. With these options and more, it's easy to see why the Briggs & Riley @Work Large Cargo Backpack is a great option for business professionals on the go
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Key Features:
Capacity: 33L
Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 8 in
Construction: 1600D Ballistic Nylon and leather accents
17” laptop sleeve + padded tablet sleeve
Special RFID blocking pocket for security
BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack
Sleek and professional, the BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack is one of the best work and travel backpacks for those on a budget. Along with an anti-theft design, BOPAI gives you everything you need to comfortably pack for a work day. Inside you’ll find separate laptop and tablet sleeves plus plenty of pockets for accessories to keep you organized. This bag even features an external USB port for phone charging on the go, making it a great charging backpack option.
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Key Features:
Dimensions: 11.8” x 17.7” x 5.5”
Concealed anti-theft main compartment
15.6” laptop sleeve + tablet sleeve
USB port for charging
Made of water resistant microfiber leather and ballistic nylon
Big Features at an Affordable Price
The anti-theft design on the BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack features a rear-facing zipper that stays hidden when the backpack is worn, so thieves can't access the inside of the bag. This is a great feature that will be appreciated by city office commuters and business travelers alike.
When it comes to functionality, the BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack is the perfect size for daily carry. It's not too bulky, yet the main compartment is large enough for multiple tech devices, extra clothes, and other must-have items. Since this backpack is structured, you won't have that awkward bulk that other backpacks get when full, which is perfect for business professionals who would look awkward with more casual backpacks.
More Helpful Resources
Backpacks for Gym and Work - We tested the best bags for work and workout days
Business Casual Backpacks - Our favorite men's backpacks for work in more casual styles
Small Men's Backpacks - The best men's backpacks under 20L
Backpack Size Guide - Explore what fits in different backpack sizes
12 Best Charging Backpacks - Built In Charger, USB Charging Port and more
Whether you are looking for a backpack with a usb charger or wireless charging on the go, we explore the best charging backpacks available right now.
In today's world, staying connected and powered up is crucial, and a charging backpack can be a useful companion in this digital age. A charging backpack, sometimes referred to as a backpack with a built-in charger, is designed to keep your gadgets juiced up while you're on the move. These smart backpacks are equipped with special USB ports, integrated charging systems, or cable pass-through ports, making it super convenient to charge your mobile phone and other electronic devices, and some can even power up your laptop, ensuring you're never left stranded with a dead battery.
In this comprehensive buying guide, we're diving into the world of the best charging backpacks available right now. We'll explore the three common types of charging backpacks and provide a helpful guide on how effectively use them, so you can make an informed decision when choosing the best charging backpack to fit your tech needs. Whether you're a college student with a packed schedule, frequent airline traveler, or simply someone who values staying connected wherever you go, this guide will help you find the perfect companion to always stay charged!
Our Top Picks
Top 3 charging backpacks with built-in USB charging or charging cable passthrough ports.
Best Charging Backpack
Solgaard Lifepack Backpack
Solar powered charging backpack with USB port and anti-theft features
Runner Up
Nomatic Backpack
Feature-packed laptop backpack with pass-through for charging cable
3 Types of Charging Backpacks
Shown above: Matein Laptop Backpack with usb charging port
Matein backpack with USB charger and power bank inside
1. BACKPACK WITH USB CHARGER
Backpacks with an integrated USB charger are the most common type of backpacks with chargers. These backpacks include a built-in USB port on the outside of the bag for easy charging while on the move.
The USB port is connected to a cable on the inside where you can plug-in a portable power bank. Most backpacks with USB chargers DO NOT include a power bank and you must bring your own. The price of a battery pack should be considered when choosing a backpack with a USB charger since you will have to purchase one seperatly if you do not already own one.
We like backpacks with integrated USB chargers because they are usually the cheapest option out of the bunch. But the bad news is that the technology in the USB ports themselves is often outdated and you may find the charging port useless if you were ever upgraded your phone that doesn’t use a traditional USB charger. We do have a USB backpack buying guide that does include built-in USB-C port options but these bags are rare.
Shown above: The small solar panel on the Solgaard Lifepack Backpack - Photo credit: Solgaard
Solgaard Lifepack backpack with built-in solar panel charging and USB connection. Photo credit: Solgaard
2. BACKPACK WITH CHARGER BUILT IN
A backpack with a charger built or a "smart charging backpack" is an all-in-one solution for those who want everything they need to start charging in one purchase. Unlike other types of charging backpacks, these backpack will include a removable lithium-ion battery and internal cables so that you do not have to buy anything extra. Simply charge the power source, plug in your phone and you are ready to go!
Some of these packs charge the battery pack with solar power and include a small solar panel on the exterior for constant power output. Other bags require you to charge the included removable battery pack through a wall-outlet. Backpacks with a charger built in are much rarer than backpacks with just an integrated USB port. And because of the added tech components they can also be more expensive.
Shown above: Nomatic Backpack with cable pass through port
Nomatic Backpack with charging cable pass through port
3. BACKPACK WITH CABLE PASS THROUGH
Backpacks that feature a cable pass-through port are the most versatile option for a charging backpack because you can use your own cables and portable power bank. A backpack with a cable pass-through port usually does not include any cables or electronics. The benefit of this is that you won’t be stuck with an out-of-date charging port when you upgrade your tech over time. Because of this, going with a backpack with a cable pass-through is the most sensible solution for most people who often upgrade to new tech.
To use a backpack with a cable pass-through port simply place your battery pack inside the dedicated pocket and feed your charging cable through a small opening into another internal or side pocket. You now have easy access to charging from the outside of the pack!
How to Use a Backpack Charger
Using a charging backpack is fast and easy! 90% of charging backpacks work exactly the same.
Prepare Your Power Source
The first step in setting up a charging backpack is connecting to a power supply.
The power supply usually comes in the form of a portable rechargeable battery pack. Before you can charge a device with your backpack you have to make sure that your power supply is fully charged.
Most backpacks with chargers include a special pocket on the inside to hold the power supply. Smart charging backpacks with built-in chargers will include a power bank that is already set-up with internal wiring.
Connect Your Charging Cable
The next step is connecting your charging cable to the internal power bank.
If you are using a backpack with a built-in USB port then the cable will be included in the backpack. For a backpack with a cable pass-through port, you will have use your own charging cable to plug into the power bank and then route the cable to the outside of the pack.
Charge Your Device
The last step is to charge your device!
Once the power supply and charging cable is connected to your power source, you can now plug in your device and start charging! Some backpacks include a special pocket to keep your phone while it is charging. These are usually side pockets or a special pocket on the shoulder straps.
Best Charging Backpacks
SOLGAARD LIFEPACK SOLAR POWERED BACKPACK
The Solgaard Lifepack is a smart charging backpack that is powered by a small solar panel on the outside of the bag. This makes the Lifepack an all-in-one solution for those who want a seriously capable backpack with a built in charger!
The solar panel is actually called the Solgaard Juicepack, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a solar power panel for direct charging. The Juicepack tucks away in a special front pocket for solar charging as you wear the bag outside. Each Lifepack also includes a special side pocket with a built-in USB port for charging devices while on the move.
What makes the Juicepack special are the multiple ports that allow you to charge up to four devices at once. Each battery pack is equipped with 2 USB ports, 1 USB-C port and the option for wireless charging. Because the Juicepack is a removable battery pack, it can also be used as a standalone charger for any device without the backpack.
The Solgaard Lifepack also has some great anti-theft features for both daily commuting and travel. It includes 4 different hidden pockets for items like metro cards, passports and earbuds. And our favorite anti-theft feature has to be the built-in lock that allows you to lock the main compartment zipper or lock down the bag itself to a table or chair leg while out in public. With all of these features and more it's no mystery why the Solgaard Lifepack is our top pick!
NOMATIC BACKPACK
The Nomatic Backpack is a daily laptop backpack for those serious about quality, organization and good design. As a clamshell backpack, you have full access to the dozens of pockets that line the inside for amazing organization of your daily or travel items.
When it comes to charging your phone and other devices, the Nomatic backpack has a clever cable pass-through pocket on the front of the bag. This allows you to keep your power bank on the inside of the backpack while your mobile phone can be easily reached from the outside pocket. You can also route the charging cable to reach your laptop or tablet for easy charging of other devices.
Other awesome features inludes a padded sleeve for a 16 inch laptop, an extra sleeve for a tablet and tons of organizer pockets for daily essentials. For more details make sure to check out our in-depth Nomatic Backpack review.
MATEIN LAPTOP BACKPACK
The Matein laptop backpack is a long time favorite for those looking for a cheap yet good backpack for daily carry, travel or even high school. It features a large main compartment, plenty of storage pockets and an external USB port for charging your tech on the go.
But the Matein laptop backpack is more than just an affordable book bag. Perfect for travel, work or urban commuting - few backpacks are this versatile for the price. This backpack also features special anti-theft pockets for things like passports and cash and its water resistant exterior allows your stuff to stay dry during a sudden rainfall.
This backpack can be divided into three sections: the front compartment, the main compartment and the rear tech compartment. The front compartment is where you'll find pen pockets and other small pockets for personal items. The large capacity main compartment is where the power bank is stored inside a mesh pocket with a built-in cable that feeds into the exterior USB port. Finally, we have the rear tech compartment that features a 15.6 inch laptop sleeve and tablet pocket to keep electronic devices safe and organized. Along with adjustable shoulder straps and a comfortable back panel, the Matein Laptop Backpack also gives you extra features like water bottle pockets, a key fob hook and a luggage strap for travel. With all of these features and more, the Matein Laptop Backpack definitly punches above its weight in price!
Check out our Matein Laptop Backpack review for a closer look at the details.
Sewell Mos Blackpack
The MOS Blackpack is one of the most innovative charging backpacks available today thanks to its integrated charging system that allows for multiple mobile phones, laptops and tablets to be charged at once. This backpack doesn't include a portable charger and instead turns your backpack into a mobile power strip. Unlike a backpack with portable charger, the MOS Blackpack allows you to pair the bag with a MOS Reach Charging Station that can plug into any outlet to charge up to 4 devices at once without removing them from your backpack. This includes USB-C laptops like a Macbook Pro!
The inside of the Blackpack you'll find special pockets and straps for cable management so that all of your charging cables are nice and organized. Padded sleeves for a 15.6-inch laptop, 12-inch tablet and a mobile phone pocket keeps your tech protected.
The MOS Blackpack is also expandable backpack that gives you up to 27 liters of packing room on days when you need the extra storage. With plenty of organizer pockets for easy access to everyday items, a sternum strap and super comfortable back panel and a rugged water-resistant construction - the MOS Blackpack has it all!
tomtoc Navigator Laptop Backpack
The Tomtoc Navigator is equipped with a water-resistant exterior, a protective tech compartment, and multiple quick-access pockets for a practical daily carry solution. Unlike other USB charging backpacks that feature external ports, Tomtoc uses a USB pass-through port, allowing you to charge while on-the-go, regardless of how many times you change your charging cable type. The charging pocket is located in a side pocket and leads your charging cable to your power bank inside the backpack.
We love Tomtoc's versatile design thanks to its durable nylon construction and well-placed pockets that can be used for daily essentials or travel accessories. The rear laptop compartment can fit both a 15.6" laptop and a tablet. Plus, since there is no built-in charger or included rechargeable battery, it has the ability to support charging with USB-A, USB-C, or any new cable type, giving you the flexibility to charge when and how you want.
Kopack Laptop Backpack
For those looking for a charging backpack on a budget, we recommenced the Kopack Laptop Backpack. At under $50 you’ll get a roomy tech-focused daypack with a modern design, a separate access laptop compartment and its own integrated USB charging system.
The charging port on the Kopack Laptop Backpack can be found on the side of the bag and includes a removable USB cable that is routed to the inside. Tech carry with this backpack is pretty awesome - in addition to a rear laptop compartment you also get a separate padded tablet sleeve and an entire organizer compartment filled with pockets for charging cables and accessories.
Incase ICON Laptop Backpack
Incase is known for their high-quality backpacks and the ICON is no exception! The Incase ICON is often regarded as one of the best backpacks for electronic devices currently available and it’s easy to see why. The ICON features a generously padded laptop compartment, a separate side-access tablet sleeve and an amazing organizer compartment for your cables, external HDDs and laptop accessories.
Unlike the other backpacks on this list, the Incase ICON doesn’t include an integrated charging system or USB port. But what it does offer is a special cable routing pocket for easy charging on the move! The charging pocket can found hip-side and allows access to a portable power bank while your on the move.
Sewell MOS Blackpack Grande Premium Tech Pack
If you love the idea of a multi-device charging backpack but need more packing room than what the original MOS Blackpack can provide, then the MOS Blackpack Grande is what you’re looking for. The Blackpack Grande features a large capacity expandable main compartment of up to 42-liters, a massive 17-inch padded laptop pocket and even more pockets for organizing your gear.
Just like the original Blackpack, the Blackpack Grande features the brand’s own MOS Reach power adapter system that can charge up to four devices with an outlet with just one cable without having to remove them from your backpack. And just like the smaller MOS Blackpack, each Grande comes equipped with soft multi-panel back cushioning, internal side water bottle pockets and a luggage strap for travel.
Voiltac Systems Array Solar Backpack
As far as charging backpacks go, few brands offer innovative charging features like Voltaic Systems. Their Array Solar backpack is their largest and most capable, providing a total of 24,000mAh of power through the included battery pack.
Designed with various pockets to accommodate laptops, tablets, and phones, the Array offers a convenient way to carry multiple tech items without worrying about running out of power. What sets this backpack apart is its ability to charge larger devices like laptops, which is uncommon among USB charging backpacks. The laptop charging capability alone blows your average USB charging backpack out of the water. But the real impressive feature is the solar power panel that turns the Voiltac System Array into an all-in-one charging solution. No more looking for outlets!
HEX TECHNICAL BACKPACK
Engineered for the modern world, the HEX Technical Backpack is jam packed with innovative features that makes it one of the best charging backpacks on this list.
As a charging backpack, the HEX Technical backpack includes a special wireless phone charging pocket that allows you to take advantage of your Qi-enabled smartphone. When coupled with the wireless power bank you’ll have the freedom to charge your device by simply placing it on the bag. No wires and no fuss.
Another great feature is HEX’s use of antimicrobial fabric technology that repels up to 99% of bacteria. When paired with the wireless charging and plenty of zipper-free slip pockets you’ll have a backpack that allows for minimum-touch access to essentials a phone or travel accessories while on the move.
Kroser Laptop Backpack
The Kroser Laptop Backpack is one of our favorite work backpacks for women and it’s easy to see why. It has a roomy main compartment for your daily essentials, a generous 15.6” laptop sleeve and it’s incredibly affordable. You can usually grab one of these backpacks for under $40.
As a charging backpack, the Kroser Laptop Backpack includes an integrated USB charging port on the side of the bag. There is a special pocket on the inside where your power bank can plug into for easy charging when you need it most.
Swissdigital Terabyte Laptop Backpack
If you are looking for a large capacity backpack for travel or your daily grind then you won’t want to skip the Swissdigital Terabyte. Its multi-compartment design makes packing and organizing your essentials a breeze.
If there is one thing the Swissdigital Terabye does right its organization. Lots and lots of organization. The bag gives you a large front compartment with pen pockets, a key fob hook and more. The lay-flat laptop compartment is also perfect for getting through airport security. Inside the laptop compartment is where you'll find a 15.6" laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve and an additional pocket for your power bank with a special cable that routes to the shoulder strap. On the left shoulder strap is where you'll find a special mesh pocket that allows you to put away a USB cable so that your charging station is within reach without every having to take off the backpack!
More Helpful Resources
Best USB Backpacks - Our Picks of Backpacks with Built-In USB Ports
Backpack Size Guide - 20 liters? 30 liters? Use our visual guide to help you find the right size backpack
How does wireless charging work? - Technical guide from ComputerWorld.com
Wired Charging vs Wireless Charging - From Popsci.com. Find out if wireless phone charging is right for you or if you should stick with USB ports.
14 Best Small Backpacks for Men - Under 20 Liters
We list our top picks for the best small backpacks for men.
Let's face it, not every guy needs a big bulky backpack. While large backpacks are great for carry-on travel or carrying gym shoes, sometimes a small pack is all you need.
Unlike a laptop sling bag, choosing a small or mini backpack can offer more balanced weight distribution and increased storage capacity. Backpacks typically distribute weight more evenly across both shoulders, especially when carrying heavier loads. In short, small backpacks are more comfortable.
In this guide, we looked at dozens of backpacks to find the best small backpacks for men that are 20 liters or smaller. These backpacks are just right for everyday use while hitting that sweet spot of stylish design, durable fabrics and easy access to essentials.
We also thought about how well they fit. Even though there are lots of mini backpacks on the market, not all of them have shoulder straps that are a good fit for men with wide shoulders. The truth is that a lot of brands use "mini backpack" as a code-word for a women’s fit. So, if you're searching for a small men's backpack with the perfect fit, then you're in the right place!
Best Small Mens Backpacks (Under 20L)
Nomatic Navigator
Once you delve into everything the Nomatic Navigator has to offer, it's easy to see why it's our top choice. As a small laptop backpack, the Nomatic Navigator for easy daily or travel carry. There is a padded laptop compartment, and front pockets and side pockets for easy access to items like a phone, chargers and water bottle.
The Nomatic Navigator also makes a great anti-theft backpack thanks to its tamper-proof zippers and sneaky hidden pockets. Need more packing room? This expandable backpack goes from 15 liters to 21 liters in seconds.
Key Features:
Capacity: 15L (expandable to 21L)
16" x 10.25" laptop compartment
Super comfortable foam adjustable straps and back panel (includes sternum strap)
Lots of zipper and mesh pockets for organization
Nutsac Rucksac Laptop Backpack
Known for their American-made EDC and leather goods, Nutsac offers the perfect small backpack for men. The Nutsac Rucksac stays true to traditional rucksacks with a rugged waxed canvas exterior, leather bottom and a roomy 20L interior.
But don't let the simple heritage design fool you. The Rucksac includes a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets to keep your organized. A really great feature on the Nutsac Rucksac is the side zipper that gives you access to the main compartment from a different location. This clever design allows you to quickly grab items from the inside without having to fuss with the top buckle. Check out our Nutsac Rucksac review for a closer look.
Key Features
20L storage capacity
Padded laptop sleeve
Water-resistant waxed-canvas and full-grain leather construction
Made in USA
Topo Designs Rover Pack
If you are looking for a small men's backpack in a timeless design, the Topo Rover might be for you. Each Rover Pack is equipped with a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of external pockets for quick-access to essentials. In fact, the side pockets are some of the best water bottle holders we have used.
The Rover is a pretty lightweight backpack thanks to its recycled nylon construction. But it's still built tough. Each pack is equipped with heavy-duty YKK zippers and comfortable spacer mesh adjustable shoulder straps for heavy loads. Other awesome features offered include compression straps on the side and shoulder straps with attachment points for pouches and accessories.
Key Features
20L storage capacity
15" laptop sleeve
Spacious main compartment in a compact design
Easy access front, side and top pocket
Day Owl Backpack
With a stylish design and high quality construciton, the Day Owl backpack is a great option for anyone looking for a men's small backpack for daily commutes and travel.
It's all about the small details with this pack. The adjustable straps are designed to never dangle for a cleaner look. There are a ton of exterior pockets for quick access to essentials (including a hidden side pocket for a water bottle). And lastly, it gives you a roomy main compartment with plenty of interior pockets for organization.
Key Features
Available in lots of colors
16-inch laptop compartment
Interior pockets for organization
Water resistant canvas construction
Stubble & Co The Backpack mini
The Backpack Mini by Stubble & Co is a mini backpack for men that is as functional as it is stylish. It features a water-resistant canvas and full grain leather construction. You also get plenty of great comfort features like a cushioned back panel and ergonomic shoulder straps.
We love this mini backpack for its convenient access to essentials without the bulk of a large main compartment. For everyday carry, the Backpack Mini doesn't disapoint. Each pack includes a 13-inch padded laptop sleeve and pockets to organize smaller items.
Key Features
10.5L storage capacity
13" laptop sleeve
Water-resistant design
Padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel for a comfortable fit
Recycled Firefighter The Battalion 12HR
Recycled Firefighter offers The Battalion 12HR for those who want a Made in USA backpack that is built to last. This small men’s backpack features 12 liters of volume in a slim and compact profile.
The clamshell access design and internal mesh pockets makes organization a breeze. While the main compartment even doubles as a hydration sleeve so that you can use the Battalion 12HR as an ultralight pack for outdoor activities. With these features and more, it's no wonder that The Battalion made it on our list of favorite GoRuck GR1 alternatives.
Key Features
12L capacity
Clamshell lay-flat main compartment
Heavy duty mil-spec construction
Made in USA
Harber London Classic Rucksack
The Harber London Classic Rucksack is a small backpack for men with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and timeless design. Despite its vintage look, this pack is full of modern features. Inside you'll find spots for your electronic devices and valuable items to keep you organized on long days.
One of our favorite features are the swiveling adjustable shoulder straps. These straps adjust to the width of your shoulders for the perfect fit. With no sternum strap or clunky hip belt, the Harber London Classic Rucksack keeps a sleek look. This small footprint also makes the Classic Rucksack a great personal item backpack when traveling by air.
Key Features
17.4L capacity
Padded 16-inch laptop and 13-inch tablet sleeves
Heavy duty mil-spec construction
Made in USA
Everki Studio Slim
The Everki Studio Slim is for anyone looking for a small business backpack for work travel or daily carry. While the outside keeps it conservative, the inside of this backpack is packed with quick access pockets for a laptop, tablet and daily essentials. There are even extra exterior pockets for water bottles and a pocket on the shoulder strap for valuables like metro or credit cards.
Unlike a mini backpack that benefits people with a short torso length, the Everki Studio Slim gives you a thin profile with a proportional footprint on the back.
Key Features
14 liter capacity
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Wide comfortable shoulder straps
Great for travel: trolley sleeve, hidden pockets
PACSAFE VIBE Anti-Theft Backpack
The Pacsafe Vibe is one of our favorite anti-theft backpacks thanks to its lockable zippers, cut-resistant fabric and special pockets for valuable items. It even includes a special RFID-blocking pocket for protecting a passport and credit cards from digital identity theft.
As a daily backpack, you can expect lots of small pockets on the inside to keep organized. The 20 liter main compartment and laptop sleeve makes the Pacsafe Vibe a great small men’s backpack option for daily carry.
For outdoor activities, simply stash a water bottle in the side pocket or utilize the hydration sleeve and you are ready for a day out in the sun. The breathable mesh back panel and adjustable sternum strap makes sure the Pacsafe Vibe is always a comfortable fit.
Key Features
20L capacity
Padded 13" laptop sleeve
Breathable mesh shoulder straps and back panel, includes sternum strap
Anti-theft design with lockable zippers
Got Bag Easy Pack Zip
The Got Bag Easy Pack Zip backpack is an excellent choice for guys looking for a mini backpack that's practical and eco-friendly. With a 17-liter capacity, it's just the right size for carrying your daily essentials. You'll find a front pocket for smaller items, offering quick access when needed. Plus, the hidden anti-theft pocket adds an extra layer of security, giving you peace of mind while you're on the go. If the weather turns wet, don't worry – the Easy Pack Zip is water-repellent. You'll know your stuff is safe whether you're heading to work, school, or an adventurous different location.
Key Features
17L capacity
Can fit up to 13" laptop
Water-repellent: DWR coating and PU backside
Anti-theft hidden exterior pocket
TROUBADOUR APEX COMPACT BACKPACK
At only 16 liters, the Troubadour Apex Compact makes the perfect small backpack for men who are serious about keeping their carry organized. Inside you'll find a ton of interior pockets while the front and side pockets give you easy access to small items.
And there is no need for a rain cover, each Apex Compact is made with a waterproof durable fabric and is topped off with water-resistant zippers. With all of these features and more, this mini backpack has everything you need to conquer your day in style.
Key Features:
16L capacity
Separate 16" laptop compartment
Lots of pockets for small items
High quality water-resistant construction
Timbuk2 Spirit Laptop Backpack
The Timbuk2 Spirit Laptop Backpack is an excellent choice for men seeking a small yet functional backpack for daily commute. With a roomy main compartment offering 16 liters of packing room, it's just enough space for daily essentials. The padded laptop pocket can hold a 13-inch laptop securely, while the smaller pockets on the outside provide convenient spots for easy access to important items.
Whether you're heading to work or spending a long day out, this ultralight pack won't slow you down. Each Timbuk2 Spirit Laptop Backpack is made with tough recycled nylon and only weighs just under 18 ounces.
Key Features:
16L capacity
13" laptop pocket
Exterior pockets for small items
Comfortable foam padded adjustable shoulder straps
HEX Evolve Logic Backpack
The HEX Evolve Logic is the perfect companion for anyone seeking a blend of simplicity and functionality in a small backpack. With a 14.5L capacity, this pack hits a sweet spot between daily usability and travel versatility. There is a spot for a 15-inch laptop, dedicated phone pocket, and thoughtful pockets for water bottles and small items.
Crafted from durable recycled ECO Cordura fabric, the HEX Evolve Logic ensures lasting use, and its upscale features like faux leather zipper pulls and plush faux fur linings in tech pockets add a touch of sophistication. Whether it's for work or travel, this lightweight backpack offers plenty of pockets and a convenient luggage handle passthrough, making it an excellent choice for men who value practicality and style.
Key Features:
14.5L capacity
15-inch laptop compartment
Lots of pockets for small items
Trolley sleeve for travel
Fjallraven Raven 20
The Fjallraven Raven 20 is an excellent choice for guys looking for a small backpack that checks all the boxes for a great fit, strong build, and timeless style. With a 20-liter capacity, this backpack finds a perfect balance between being compact yet roomy enough for daily carry. The Raven 20 is even made from rugged water-resistant materials, making it the perfect pack to take on an afternoon hike.
Our favorite feature of this backpack is all of its useful exterior pockets. There are spots for water bottles, a top pocket that's great for keeping your sunglasses safe, and an organizer compartment filled with smaller pockets to help you keep things organized. Additionally, there's a front pocket that lets you quickly grab items you need on the go.
Key Features:
20L capacity
15-inch laptop sleeve
Great organization for daily items
Made of rugged water resistant G-1000® HeavyDuty fabric
How We Chose These Backpacks
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In curating our list of the best small men's backpacks, we took special care to feature bags made from durable fabrics and components from reputable brands that we trust. Whether you're navigating crowded streets, traveling to different locations, or simply carrying your daily necessities, a small men's backpack with high-quality materials is a top choice for those seeking both style and functionality in a compact package. Just because it's a smaller lightweight backpack, doesn't mean it has to compromise on durability. We focused on durable canvas and nylon over flimsy polyester and YKK zippers over cheap imitations. These are all details that should be considered when considering a new backpack.
We also focused on bags with great water-resistant construction. With smaller bags, extra components like a rain cover will take up precious packing room. Instead we looked for bags with water-resistant coatings on the fabric, zipper guards to protect interior compartments or water-resistant zippers that can protect against rain and snow.
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Just because a backpack is small doesn't mean it can't have great organization. We understand the importance of having designated spaces for both everyday essentials and travel items. This is why we focus on great small laptop backpacks and daily carry packs. Features we look out for are laptop sleeves, side pockets for water bottles and interior and exterior pockets for quick access to smaller items.
Whether you're searching for a new backpack for work or leisure, our selection emphasizes excellent organization. These features provide peace of mind, knowing that your essentials are readily accessible and stored in a well-thought-out manner. These small men's backpacks are not only designed to complement your daily routines but also cater to your travel needs, making them a practical choice for those who value both style and functionality.
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The most important criteria for choosing a backpack is making sure that it's comfortable! We looked for backpacks with foam padded back panels and adjustable shoulder straps and gave special consideration to models who put in a little extra effort in the comfort department.
You may notice that although some small bags may include a sternum strap, hip belts are usually missing. Hip belts are reserved for larger backpacks to help support heavy loads. In short, you don't need a hip belt for a bag this small (unless you plan on packing a 14L pack up with bricks).
The same can be said for compression straps and other common exterior features. Most smaller bags are compact enough to not need compression straps for managing the bag size.
FAQs
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A small backpack is generally defined by its capacity and footprint. Any backpack with a volume under 20 liters is considered small. These backpacks are designed to be compact and lightweight, and forego a large main compartment in order to make them more compact. They're great for shorter trips, daily commutes, or situations where you want to travel light. Moreover, small backpacks often come in two distinct styles: mini backpacks and slim backpacks.
Mini backpacks have a small footprint not only in terms of their capacity but also how they sit on your back. They typically smaller all-around and are designed to take up less space on the back when worn. These backpacks are excellent alternatives to sling packs and tote bags. On the other hand, slim backpacks maintain the footprint of a regular-sized backpack but offer a thinner profile. This style is perfect for guys who want to retain the classic backpack design but prefer a sleeker appearance. The slim design can be advantageous when navigating crowded spaces or for those who prefer a more streamlined aesthetic.
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Absolutely, men can absolutely wear mini backpacks! The idea that backpack styles are gender-specific is changing, and fashion today is all about personal expression. Mini backpacks are versatile accessories that work well for anyone, regardless of gender. They come in various designs, colors, and materials, making it easy for men to find a style that suits their preferences.
Mini backpacks are practical and convenient for carrying daily essentials, such as keys, wallets, phones, and even small notebooks or tablets. In this buying guide we focused mostly on style and fit. Some mini backpacks can have narrow shoulder straps that might not be comfortable for some guys. So we focused on packs that will give enough support.
More Helpful Resources
Backpack Size Guide - Visual Guide
What fits in a 20L backpack? Visual guide
Best Urban Backpacks - tested and reviewed
Best Clamshell Backpacks in 2024 - Tested and Reviewed
We test and review the best clamshell backpacks for travel and laptop carry available right now!
Discover a favorite feature in modern backpack design: the clamshell backpack, also known as a panel loader or front loading backpack. This style of backpack has become a game-changer for travelers and daily commuters alike. With its unique ability to provide a birds-eye view of your packed belongings, the clamshell design offers efficient packing for both travel adventures and everyday use.
In this buying guide, we have tested numerous clamshell backpacks to bring you the very best options for both everyday carry and travel needs. Get ready to experience the joy of hassle-free packing and convenient access with our top recommendations!
Shown above left to right:
What is a Clamshell Backpack?
Most backpacks are designed as top-loading with the main compartment entry at the top of the bag. Think of this design as a big bucket that requires you to stack things on top of each other. Although a top-loading backpack has it's advantages, sometimes it becomes a hassle to unpack everything just to reach something at the bottom of your bag.
Enter a clamshell backpack, also known as a panel loader backpack. These backpacks feature a main compartment zipper opening that spans 3 of the 4 sides of the backpack. This allows you to the lay the backpack flat for a birds-eye view of your packing.
Backpacks with a clamshell opening have been popular with photography bags for years. This design allows photographers to quickly access their lenses and gear. But travel and urban backpacks are finally catching up with the trend and adding full clamshell openings to their design. These backpacks allow you to breeze through airport security, quickly access small items at the bottom of the bag and pack the way you want to without compromise.
Advantages of a Clamshell Backpack
Shown Above: The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack
3-Way Entry
A clamshell backpack has one notable feature that is special to its backpack design: 3-way entry.
Depending on how you position the zippers, you can enter the main compartment in three different ways. Firstly, you can access the main compartment from the top, just like a regular top-loading backpack. This method allows for quick and easy access to essential items without fully opening the bag.
Secondly, a clamshell backpack enables access to the main compartment from either the right side or the left side, making it easy to reach specific items without disturbing the entire pack's contents. Lastly, for those moments when you want full access to all your packing, you can open the zipper fully. This 3-way entry applies if whether it's a front loading backpack or a backpack with a back zipper.
Shown Above: Able Carry Max travel backpack
Optimize Your packing
A clamshell backpack, with its convenient "Tetris packing" feature, proves to be a game-changer for travel enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
When you open a clamshell backpack, all of the interior is exposed, allowing you to take advantage of every inch of space efficiently. Using packing cubes or other organizers, you can neatly arrange your belongings within the front-loading main compartment, optimizing the backpack's design for easy access and better weight distribution. Much like a travel backpack that opens like a suitcase, this backpack design ensure you can pack more while keeping everything organized and easily accessible during your travels or daily commutes.
Shown Above: Nomatic Backpack interior pockets
More (Secure) Pockets
One underrated feature of a clamshell design is easy access to inside pockets. This is especially useful for urban travel and carry-on backpacks going through airport security. Many backpack brands have been including more pockets on the inside of their bags for better organization. A panel loader backpack gives you better access to these pockets since all sides of the main compartment are exposed. This means less reliance on external pockets and better security for small items. If you are looking for a backpack with lots of pockets, then a clamshell design may be your best bet.
Best Clamshell Backpacks for Travel
Osprey Sojourn Porter
The Osprey Sojourn Porter is a the newest successor to the popular Osprey Farpoint travel pack. In addition to having clamshell opening, you get a long list of amazing features to make traveling a breeze.
One of our favorite features is the ability to carry it like a duffel when needed by tucking away the shoulder straps and hip belt into the back panel. This makes for an easier time when storing the bag in overhead compartments on planes, trains and buses. The compression straps allow you to adjust the Sojourn Porter's size as needed and the ability to attach a smaller Osprey Daylite or Daylite Plus backpack to the front of the bag for extra storage.
The Sojourn Porter comes in 30, 46 and 65 liter sizes but all have the same key features that makes them great heavy-duty clamshell travel backpacks. If you want to stay within a carry-on backpack size, make sure to stick with the smaller 30L and 46L Sojourn Porter travel packs to stay under the maximum size.
Features at a glance:
Available in 30L, 46L and 65L sizes
Ergonomically designed for heavy loads
Full clamshell main compartment for easy packing
Quick access front compartment for organization of smaller items
ABLE CARRY MAX
If having just one carry-on backpack for trips is your travel style, then the Able Carry Max deserves a closer look. This backpack is divided into two major compartments. The first gives you 30 liters of packing room for packing. The second tech compartment offers a 17" padded laptop sleeve and lots of smaller pockets for accessories. You even get a few sneaky hidden pockets for extra security on busy travel days. Our favorite is the hidden water bottle pocket.
What impresses us most about the Able Carry Max is it's premium construction. Crafted with top-notch waterproof X-Pac fabric and sturdy Cordura Nylon, it's built like a tank. Not only is it durable, but its comfortable. The ergonomic cushioned shoulder straps and ventilated back panel are some of the best we have tested Couple these features with a lifetime guarantee from Able Carry and this might be the only large backpack you'll ever need.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 30L
17" laptop sleeve inside tech compartment
Very comfortable padded shoulder straps and ventilated back panel
Minimalist design with hidden pockets
Versatile enough for travel, work or gym
Peak Design Travel Backpack
This travel backpack is insane. It has so many amazing features that it would be impossible to list them all. But let's just touch on some of our favorites.
The Peak Design Travel Backpack is an exandable backpack. The default size gives you 35 liters of packing room but it can expande all the way up to 45 liters in seconds using an expandable zipper. But what really impressed us is that fact that the pack can also be compressed to a smaller size. One days when you want a smaller bag, simply use the special compression snaps to turn it into a smaller 30 liter backpack.
Unlike most front loading backpacks, the Peak Design Travel Backpack features a back zipper for more secure carry. But that's not all! The bag also gives you access to the main compartment through the left and right side as well. Still not impressed? The front organizer compartment has a tear-away panel that allows you quick access to the main compartment from the front. In summary, you can access your packing from the front, back and sides. Pretty impressive.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 45L (also comes in 30L size)
Padded laptop sleeve
International carry-on approved
Includes sternum strap and stowable hip belt
Water resistant zippers and fabric
Best Clamshell Backpacks for Daily Carry
Db Ramverk Backpack
If you want a simple and super functional clamshell backpack for work, travel, or fun, then the Db Ramverk is the perfect choice. You get full lay-flat access to the main compartment, giving you lots of space to put your things. Inside, you are greeted with mesh pockets that help you keep everything organized. You can also use the front compression straps to attach bulkier items on the outside, creating even more storage options.
One of the best features of the Db Ramverk is that it’s super lightweight. This is thanks to Db’s special rib cage technology that replaces heavy paneling for ABS “ribs” that are strong without adding the bulk. As a result you have a light, slim and protective front loading backpack for daily carry and travel.
Available in 21L, 26L and 32L sizes
15” Laptop Compartment
Great quality that rivals more expensive luxury bags
Can be converted to camera bag with Db camera insert
Modern Dayfarer - Dayfarer V2 Backpack
The Dayfarer V2 Backpack is what happens when a brand takes the time to design something truly special, listens to customer feedback and then releases a product that's even better. With its clean and stylish look, it seamlessly transitions between a sleek gym and work backpack. The bottom shoe compartment allows you to seperate shoes or laundry from your clean items. And while it doesn't look like it, the Dayfarer V2 is packed with exterior pockets for quick access. You have a semi-hidden front pocket, side pockets and even a secret back pocket for valuables.
This backpack's clamshell design is a bit different from the other bags we tested. It opens like a clamshell with zippers on the sides but closes traditional lid and buckle on top. Not only does this design allows you to expand the top for additional space but it gives the bag a unique design that sets it apart from the herd. Made of water-repellent ballistic nylon, it keeps your belongings safe and dry in unexpected weather conditions, making it a reliable and stylish choice for all your daily adventures.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24L
Highly water resistant construction: YKK Aquaguard zippers, ballistic nylon with a water repellent coating
16" laptop compartment with water resistant zipper
Separate shoe compartment
NOMATIC BACKPACK
The Nomatic Backpack was created for those who love staying organized. It's the most pocket-filled clam shell backpack we've ever tested, with pockets lining each wall of the main compartment. Plus, there's a quick access panel on the front with even more pockets for your important stuff.
What's even more impressive about the Nomatic Backpack is that it's convertible and expandable. You can tuck away the shoulder straps and carry it like a briefcase using the side handles. And on those extra busy days when you need more space, you can easily expand the backpack in just seconds with its special wrap-around zipper. An expandable and convertible laptop backpack with tons of organization? What can't this backpack do?
Take a look at our Nomatic Backpack review to see this backpack in action.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (expandable to 24L)
Tons of pockets for organization
Water resistant construction
Convertible backpack (backpack to briefcase)
WANDRD PRVKE BACKPACK
The WANDRD PRVKE isn’t your typical clamshell backpack. Instead of just one opening you get a total of 3 different points of access to the main compartment. The PRVKE offers basic top loading access through a classic roll-top while a zippered opening gives you access from the side. Finally, the back is home to a 3/4 zipper that gives you full clamshell access to the main compartment. Pretty neat, right?
This pack is available in multiple sizes so that you can choose the best fit for your needs. WNDRD also gives you the option to include photography gear inserts so that you can transform your PRVKE from a standard EDC backpack to a fully equipped photography bag in minutes. Each PRVKE includes a sternum strap and some seriously comfortable shoulders straps (seriously) but a hip belt is only available as an add-on item.
Check out our WANDRD PRVKE backpack review for more details.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 21L, 31L or 41L options
Completely weather resistant. Durable materials and construction.
Super versatile daily, commuter, travel, photo backpack
THE RIDGE COMMUTER WEATHERPROOF BACKPACK
The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack is a perfect choice for busy urban commuters who need a versatile backpack that works from work to the weekend. It looks simple and professional for the office, but inside, it's packed with lots of pockets and compartments to help you through your busiest days. The Ridge is also made with a waterproof nylon shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers to protect your stuff during rainy days or outdoor adventures in inclement weather.
What makes the Ridge Commuter special is its dual-access design with two different zippers to the main compartment. The first half zipper lets you open it like a regular backpack, and the second 3-sided zipper allows you to fully open it like a clamshell, giving you access to the many pockets inside. This flexibility is one of the reasons we love the Ridge Commuter and believe it's one of the best daily carry clamshell backpacks available today.
Check out our The Ridge Commuter Backpack review for an in-depth look at the features.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 15 liters
Integrated USB mobile charging port with special power bank pocket
Shockproof laptop compartment
Black Ember Shadow
Black Ember has set out to make the perfect waterproof tech backpack for commuters and travelers alike. And we think they have succeeded with the Shadow. This backpack features an incredible amount of organization thanks to its clever pocket placement and intuitive access design.
What’s special about the Shadow is that it tech-focused. Inside the lay-flat clamshell main compartment you'll find a padded tablet and laptop sleeve plus other special mesh pockets designed for chargers and tech accessories. An external zippered pocket even gives you easy access to smaller items and phone charging. All of these great features are protected by YKK Aquaguard zippers and tough waterproof fabric for the ultimate protection against inclement weather.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: Available in 22L and 26L sizes
Amazing tech-focused storage pockets for accessories
Waterproof construction
Can be used as a daily laptop backpack or carry-on backpack thanks to luggage trolley sleeve
5.11 Rush 24 Backpack
Imagine tough-as-nails tactical bag that can be used as a daily laptop backpack, hiking pack or travel bag. That’s the Rush Series of bags by 5.11 in a nutshell.
What we love most about the 5.11 Rush 24 is it’s versatility. The clamshell zipper allows full access to the main compartment for easy packing. Inside is where you’ll find a 15-inch laptop sleeve plus some handy pockets for organization but the real fun is on the outside of the bag.
The Rush 24 is loaded with features that makes it earn its keep as the “do everything bag”. You can find a pocket for a hydration bladder in the back, a fleece pocket for sunglasses on top, and a myriad of MOLLE webbing allows you to expand your storage with modular pouches and accessories to really make this bag your own.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 37L (also available in 24L and 55L)
MOLLE webbing and bottom panel web gear loops for modular attachments
15-inch laptop pocket
Rear hydration compartment
How We Chose These Backpacks
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The main driver for adding a backpack to our list was making sure it was a high-quality backpack, especially for those with an on-the-go travel style and urban travel needs. Investing in a backpack made from durable materials like ballistic nylon, X-Pac fabric, or cotton canvas ensures that it can withstand the rigors of frequent use. A well-crafted clamshell backpack will not only last longer but also provide the necessary protection for your belongings during your adventures, giving you peace of mind wherever you go. Whether you're navigating bustling streets or exploring nature's wonders, having a high-quality backpack ensures you can efficiently pack, access your items, and trust in its reliability for many journeys to come.
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Having high-quality zippers on a clamshell backpack is crucial due to its unique panel loader design. Unlike traditional top-loading backpacks, clamshell backpacks exert more pressure on the zippers when the bag is packed full. More zippers = more chances of a zipper blow out.
To ensure durability and reliability, we found it essential to recommend clamshell bags from brands we know use quality zippers and stand by their construction. Because of this, you might notice that many of the brands we featured include a lifetime warranty. With high-quality zippers, you can confidently use packing cubes and organize loose items inside the backpack, knowing that the zippers will hold up, allowing for easy access and secure closure during your travels and daily adventures.
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At Backpackies, we take backpack design pretty seriously. This is why we put so much emphasis on making sure a backpack has exactly the pockets and compartments you need for daily use and travel. We focused on backpacks that include the essentials plus a little extra.
Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on an adventure, having designated spaces for your belongings can make all the difference. A well-designed backpack is not complete without a laptop compartment to keep your tech safe and accessible. Additionally, compression straps come in handy for compressing the backpack when it's not fully packed, reducing bulk and keeping everything in place. For those who need to carry extra shoes, a dedicated shoe compartment keeps them separate from your other items. Pockets with fleece lining offer protection for delicate items like sunglasses or electronics, preventing scratches and damage. Well-organized compartments allow you to have a designated spot for credit cards, pens, and other essentials, ensuring quick access when needed. Lastly, a water bottle pocket keeps your drink within reach. These are just some of the design features we look for.
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At Backpackies, our primary focus in curating the list of the best clamshell backpacks is ensuring they provide ultimate comfort for both daily use and travel. Comfort is a top priority, and we carefully select backpacks that come equipped with features like sternum straps, padded shoulder straps, and hip belts. These components play a crucial role in distributing the weight of the backpack evenly across the body, reducing strain and ensuring a comfortable carrying experience even during extended wear. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a large backpacking adventure, having the right support and weight distribution is essential to prevent discomfort and fatigue.
11 Best Grad School Backpacks in 2024 - Tested for Real Graduate Students
Looking for the best backpack for grad school? In this buying guide we explore our favorite backpacks for graduate students that are mature and campus ready.
When you go from being an undergrad college student to a graduate student, things change a lot. You'll have fewer classes each semester, and you'll spend more time doing research, going to seminars, and attending meetings. Grad students have busy schedules, whether they're spending long hours in a lab or working as a teaching assistant. And because of that, they need backpacks that can keep up with their needs.
In this guide, we've made a list of the best backpacks for grad school. We considered what graduate students need and did some research and testing to find backpacks that are both stylish and practical. These backpacks can be useful even after you complete your graduate program, as you move on to the next stage of your career.
How We Chose These Backpacks
Pictured above: The Day Owl Backpack filled with grad student essentials
Room for Graduate School Supplies
Whether you are just starting your graduate program or getting ready to wrap-up a master's degree, some school supplies stay consistent throughout your education. Most graduate students carry items like binders, books, and notebooks for reading and note-taking. We looked for backpacks that have big main compartments to fit all those things. These backpacks also should have easy access pockets for pens, planners, and other small items that you need.
Graduate school days can be long, so you will want to bring some personal stuff too, like a water bottle, lunch, or jacket. Many of the backpacks we feature have space for those things too.
Pictured above: tomtoc TechPack-T73 X-Pac Laptop Backpack with laptop and tablet sleeves.
Laptop and Tablet Sleeves
In today's world, having a laptop and tablet is really important for graduate school. These devices are useful for taking notes, doing research, and reading. That's why it's essential for a grad student to have a backpack that can keep them safe. The backpacks we feature here have padded laptop compartments, and some of them even have a separate sleeve for your tablet. We made sure that these backpacks give you easy access to your tech and keeps it safe.
Pictured above: Knack Pack Series 2 expandable and convertible backpack
Smart and Mature Designs
While it's okay to use your undergrad backpack in graduate school, many of us want a new look that shows we're moving into the next phase of our education. That's why we picked backpacks that are both stylish and mature. As a graduate student, you're entering a more professional part of your higher education. A mature backpack will fit in with what your professors, peers, and potential employers expect from you.
Planning on doing a doctoral program? We also put together a helpful best backpacks for medical school guide that is worth checking out. There is some overlap but we cater more towards students who need backpacks for labs and residencies.
The Best Backpacks for Grad School
Knack Pack Series 2
The Knack Pack Series 2 has always been one of our top suggestions those looking for a convertible or expandable backpack. In fact, it might be the most versatile backpack you’ll ever own. You can tuck away the shoulder straps and carry the Knack Series 2 as a briefcase for a more professional look. Need more packing room? The Knack Pack Series 2 has a hidden travel compartment that you can pack with clothing or extra items on busy days.
But we also highly recommend the Knack Pack Series 2 as an everyday carry laptop backpack for school. Graduate students will love the professional style and great carry options. Our favorite features include a hidden water bottle pocket, a massive organizer panel with lots of pockets and a fleece-lined sleeve for a tablet or extra laptop.
If you are curious about the difference between Knack Packs, we highly recommend you check out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison.
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Specs:
Comes in small, medium and large sizes
Capacity: 24-35L (medium)
Materials: Water resistant high-weave nylon and YKK zippers
Expandable hidden travel compartment
Lockable zippers
15" laptop compartment (extra sleeve inside main compartment)
What makes the Knack Pack a great grad school backpack:
Students can carry multiple devices thanks to extra fleece-lined sleeve
Go from casual backpack to professional briefcase in seconds
Lots of organization for daily essentials
Super comfortable breathable mesh shoulder straps and molded, comfort-cool foam back panel
Main compartment is large enough for folders, binders and books
Expandable compartment is great for storing extra clothes and gear
Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack
Having trouble choosing between a backpack or tote bag for graduate school? Why not both!
The Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack is one of our favorite convertible backpacks thanks to shoulder straps that can tucked away to turn it into a sleek tote. Plus, this backpack keeps a clean and mature profile allowing you to smoothly transition into professional work settings while looking your best.
We have to admit, although there may be other bags that are stylish, very few are as functional as the Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack. The main compartment is large enough for grad school essentials like a laptop, binders and notebooks. And the pockets on this bag are amazing! You'll find a spot for everything!
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Specs:
Capacity: 21L
Materials: Water resistant recycled polyester, vegan leather trim
17" laptop sleeve
Convertible from laptop to tote bag
What makes the Troubadour Bivy a great bag for grad students:
Large 17" padded laptop pocket
Comfortable ergonomic shoulder straps
Main compartment is large enough for binders, folders and notebooks
Lots of pockets for organizing grad school essentials
Highly water resistant construction. In fact, this bag is one of our favorite waterproof backpacks for women.
Db The Ramverk Backpack
We believe there are two kinds of grad students: those who have a lot of things to carry and those who like to keep it simple. If you're the type who only needs a few folders, personal items, and a laptop, then we have the perfect backpack for you: the Db Ramverk 21L.
The Ramverk laptop backpack is sleek and lightweight. This is thanks to its PU leather exterior, lux zippers and slim profile. We really like the easy-access 15-inch laptop compartment and clamshell main compartment design that gives you a birdseye view of your packing. Think of the Ramverk as the "nice but not boring" laptop backpack.
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Specs:
Capacity: 21L
Materials: Water resistant PU leather
Padded laptop compartment (fits up to 15” Macbook)
Open flat clamshell main compartment
What makes the Db Ramverk a great grad school backpack:
Slim profile for those who want to avoid large bulky backpacks
Minimalist design. PU leather exterior adds a touch of sophistication.
Plenty of smaller pockets for organization of tech, personal and school items.
Keep it light. Lightweight design and 21L main compartment is perfect for carrying a few binders, notebooks and textbooks.
We recommend the Ramverk to grad students who want something different from the usual North Face or Jansport backpacks. Db might not be a common brand on a college campus, but it's great for those pursuing a graduate degree who need something more mature.
You can also choose from different colors, making the Db Ramverk backpack a mix of style and function that will elevate your daily look.
Day Owl Backpack
The Day Owl backpack is one of our favorite backpacks to recommend to graduate program students who want a stylish backpack that is a step above your average undergrad pack. Not only does it come in a bunch of fun (but mature) colors, but the Day Owl gives you everything you need to confidently handle a busy day.
What makes the Day Owl special is the sneaky exterior pockets. There are clever side pockets for a water bottle and smaller items like a wallet of phone. While the front pocket gives you easy access to a planner or small books.
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Specs:
Capacity: 21L
Materials: First Mile waxed canvas made from recycled materials, YKK zippers
Padded compartment fits up to 16" laptop
Neoprene-lined hidden water bottle pocket
What makes the Day Owl a great backpack for grad students:
Padded laptop sleeve in quick-access compartment
Rugged waxed-canvas construction in stylish colors
Main compartment is large enough for binders, folders and notebooks
Lots of pockets for organizing grad school essentials
"No-Slack Straps" means there are no dangling shoulder straps for a more professional look
tomtoc TechPack-T73 X-Pac Laptop Backpack
Students looking for a high quality backpack will love what the tomtoc TechPack-T73 has to offer. In addition to a large 30L main compartment, tomtoc gives you a separate tech compartment for quick access to a laptop and tablet.
The outside of this backpack is made with X-Pac, a strong and waterproof material. And if you plan on carrying heavy loads, you will appreciate the thick padded adjustable shoulder straps and breathable back panel.
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Specs:
Capacity: 30L
Materials: X-Pac, 1680D Nylon
Padded sleeves fit 16" Macbook and 12.9" tablet
Almost a dozen pockets for organization
What makes the tomtoc TechPack-T73 a great grad school backpack:
Separate laptop compartment with tablet sleeve
High quality materials for a mature look
Sleeves for folders, files and papers inside main compartment
Roomy main compartment for books, binders and large items
Shoulder straps have thick padding for comfortable all day carry.
The North Face Surge
We recommend The North Face Surge to graduate students who need a large backpack for carrying large and bulky items. Most North Face backpacks have a sporty look, but the Surge was designed especially for students and working professionals. And you can see this intention throughout its design.
What the Surge does well is combine big open compartments with lots of pockets for organization. The front of the backpack alone has almost a dozen pockets for quick-access to small items. In fact, the Surge is one of our favorite backpacks with lots of pockets. And the large laptop compartment has not only a laptop pocket but spots for a tablet and other flat items like notebooks and folders. Even though the Surge has The North Face name, it definitely isn't a hiking backpack!
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Specs:
Capacity: 31L
Materials: Water-repellent nylon ripstop, recycled polyester, YKK zippers
15" laptop compartment
Shoulder straps and back panel certified by the American Chiropractic Association
What makes the Surge a great bag for grad students:
15" laptop sleeve with smaller pocket for tablet
Supportive back panel and shoulder straps for all day wear
Includes adjustable sternum strap and hip belt
Lots of great pockets for organizing smaller items
Main compartment is large enough for binders, folders and notebooks
More Great Backpacks for Grad School
Nomatic Backpack
The Nomatic Backpack has been one of the most impressive backpacks released in recent years. There just isn't anything like it! As a grad student, you’ll love this backpacks amazing organization while giving you a look that’s a step-up from your average college student.
Although the Nomatic Backpack isn't the roomiest backpack, it does expand to give you additional room when you need it. Expect it to fit bulky things like a few notebooks or a jacket just fine. Ready to look more professional? Tuck in the shoulder straps and carry the Nomatic Backpack like a briefcase.
For a closer look check out our Nomatic Backpack Review.
Stubble & Co The Backpack
Stubble & Co offers a premium laptop backpack for graduate school students who are looking for something practical yet refined enough to set them apart from the undergrads on campus.
The Backpack is made with water-resistant waxed canvas and natural full grain leather - two durable materials that only look better as they age. The classic look is perfect for anyone looking for a mature backpack for graduate school made with materials that will last for years to come.
Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack
The Timbuk2 Authority was made for daily work carry but we love it as a graduate program backpack for students who spend less time in the classroom. You can fit folders and notebooks just fine but this bag is really about great organization. Our favorite feature has to be the bottom compression straps that allow you to attach a jacket on those annoying cold in the morning but warm in the evening days.
If you are considering a Timbuk2 backpack we highly recommend you take a look at our Timbuk2 Authority vs Division backpack comparison.
Samsonite Xenon 3.0 Backpack
The Xenon 3.0 backpack from Samsonite's Business Collection is designed for people who want a professional look. It's a great choice for grad students because it has some really useful features like a separate laptop compartment and large compartments. The main compartment is roomy enough for bulky books. And there's a special compartment to help you keep your smaller things organized, like pens, chargers, and a tablet.
Troubadour Apex Backpack
If you want a high quality backpack that you can take into the office after graduation, then the Troubadour Apex is the backpack to get. It's actually one of our top picks for the best men's work backpacks. But we think the Apex would be an excellent choice for graduate students because of how well it does organization.
This backpack might look small, but it can hold more than you think. The main compartment can fit a few binders and notebooks, and it has lots of pockets inside to help you stay organized. The best part? The Troubadour Apex is highly water resistant. It's made with water resistant materials and zippers to protect everything inside.
If you want the biggest laptop backpack we wouldn't go with this one. But if you want the nicest...
How to Choose a Backpack for Graduate School
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When students start graduate school, they have to carry different things in their backpacks than when they were undergrads. One big difference is that they don't need as many textbooks. In grad school, they focus more on specialized research and studying one subject in depth. So, instead of lots of textbooks, they might have more specific reference materials and articles that they can store on their computers or tablets.
Graduate students usually carry a set number of items. They need a laptop and tablet, as well as chargers and cables to keep them powered. Organizational tools like binders, folders, and notebooks help them keep their stuff organized. They also need books for reference and research. Writing tools like pens and highlighters help them take notes and analyze information. A planner helps them keep track of important dates and schedules, and sticky notes can be used as reminders. It's also important for grad students to have a water bottle and a lunch box to stay hydrated and have something to eat during their busy days of learning and research.
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The carrying capacity of a backpack tells you how much it can hold. It's usually measured in Liters (L) and determines how big the main compartment is. If you only need to carry a laptop and a few notebooks, a smaller backpack in the 20-25 liter range might be better. But if you're a grad student with lots of binders and books, you'll need a bigger backpack in the 25+ liter range to fit everything.
We made a visual backpack size guide that shows different backpack sizes and what can fit in them. It can help you choose the right backpack for grad school. If you want clear examples, it's worth checking out!
Tips for Finding a "Grown Up" Backpack
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The materials used to make a backpack are really important when you want a more mature and grown-up look for grad school. You can't go wrong with natural materials like waxed canvas or leather. But synthetic high quality fabrics are great as well. Cordura nylon, XPAC, ballistic nylon are all rugged materials that take less abuse. The less abuse your bag takes, the more put together it will look!
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The structure of a backpack is an important thing to think about when choosing a mature grad school bag. It refers to how the backpack keeps its shape when it's empty.
Some backpacks made of unstructured canvas, like the classic Jansport backpacks, can collapse inward when you wear them. While these backpacks might have been okay for high school and college, it's a good idea to get a more professional-looking bag for graduate school.
The best business backpacks usually have some kind of structure to them. We kept that in mind when recommending our favorite grad school backpacks on this list.
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When picking out a new backpack for grad school, it's best to avoid bright colors and patterned fabric. Those kinds of backpacks are often used by high school and undergrad students, and their designs show that.
To make any backpack look more mature, just stick with basic and simple colors. Black, gray, navy, and maroon are all good colors to choose for a grad school backpack.
12 Backpacks with Zipper on Back (Rear Access Packs!)
Ever wonder what it’s like to use a back zipper backpack? We pick our favorite backpacks that allow you to access the inside from the back panel.
What if instead of opening your backpack from a front zipper, you could open it from the back? What we are describing is a backpack with a back zipper. Yes, they exist. And yes, they are awesome!
This type of back zipper design has taken off with camera backpacks. Photographers love it because it allows them to have full access to their photography gear while adding anti-theft safety to the design.
But in this buying guide we are going to introduce you to some of our favorite travel and everyday laptop backpacks that also take advantage of this unique back zipper design.
Pictured above: WANDRD PRVKE backpack with back zipper entry
What is a back zipper?
Normally, a backpack has front or top access to the main compartment inside. A backpack with a zipper against the back allows you to open the main compartment from the rear where the shoulder straps are located.
A back zipper design has two advantages:
Anti-theft safety: Back zippers make it harder for thieves to gain access to the inside of your bag. When worn, these zippers stay semi-hidden against your back.
Full-access to your stuff: Back zipper backpacks usually give you full lay-flat access to the inside of the main compartment. Think of it as a reverse clamshell backpack. This makes it easier to pack for travel, organize camera gear and sort your daily carry.
By the way, if you are looking for an anti-theft backpack with back zipper compartments, then check out our backpacks with secret pockets guide. Some backpacks give you pockets with hidden zippers against the back panel for added safety. But in this guide, we will be focusing on entry to a backpack through a back zipper.
Best Everyday Backpacks with Back Zipper
WANDRD PRVKE
It's not easy finding an everyday backpack with a zipper on the back. It's even harder to find one as versatile and high quality as the WANDRD PRVKE. This backpack is made with waterproof materials, offers a lifetime warranty and can be converted between a camera bag, travel bag and daily laptop backpack.
The WANDRD PRVKE gives you dual access to the main compartment. This means that you can enter the inside from the roll top or from the back zipper for lay-flat access. Through this back zipper is where you'll find a laptop sleeve and plenty of internal pockets for organization.
In our opinion, the best features on the WANDRD PRVKE are on the outside. The PRVKE is packed hidden pockets against the back panel for stuff like keys, sunglasses, wallets and passports. For a closer look, check out our WANDRD PRVKE review.
5.11 Eldo RT Pack 30L
The 5.11 Eldo RT is another dual access everyday backpack. You can enter the main compartment from the roll top or a back zipper for clamshell access. With a 30-liter capacity, you can easily use the Eldo RT as an daily laptop backpack or as a travel backpack for shorter trips. Want to go on a hike? No problem, the Eldo RT allows you to turn your laptop sleeve into a hydration sleeve thanks to the built-in loop strap.
In true 5.11 Tactical style, the Eldo RT Pack has plenty of MOLLE attachment points on the shoulder straps as well as a hidden compartment for use as a CCW backpack.
VGOAL Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack
Packed with anti-theft features, the VGOAL offers an anti-theft everyday backpack that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. The backpack zipper is located on the back panel for secure entry to the main compartment. Inside you'll find interior pockets for everything from a laptop, tablet, sunglasses and pens.
The main compartment itself has a built-in combination lock for even more peace of mind. A hidden zipper pocket can also be found against the back panel to stash valuables. Not bad for a budget bag.
Boundary Supply Errant Pack
The Boundary Supply Errant Pack is a powerhouse laptop backpack made of water-resistant materials with a tough-as-nails construction. This modular backpack has the ability to connect with over a dozen Boundary Supply accessories to really make the backpack your own.
This backpack has a back zipper that allows you full clamshell access to the many interior pockets that line the inside. And if you want a hidden pocket, the Errant Pack even includes an anti-theft zippered pocket against the back panel for a passport or wallet. Other great features include a bottom shoe compartment, magnetic buckles and a breathable back panel for all-day comfort.
Boundary Supply Errant Pro
The Errant Pro is just the Errant Pack but beefed up to a 30 liter capacity. You get more storage, better organization and better shoulder harness and waist belt support.
As a back zipper backpack, the Errant Pro does things a little differently. The back zipper gives you access to the 17 inch laptop sleeve and pockets for tech but has a second "quick-rip" zipper that gives you access to the main compartment in seconds. It's a great way to seperate your carry but still have access from the back.
KOPACK Security Backpack
The Kopack Security Backpack is a daily laptop backpack packed with anti-theft features. The backpack zipper is located in the back to keep theives at bay. Combine this back zipper design with the bag's anti-slash material and you'll have worry-free carry during busy commutes.
Inside each Kopack Security Backpack you'll find padded sleeves for a laptop and tablet as well as a ton of smaller pockets for organizing your daily carry.
Best Travel Backpacks with Back Zipper
Nomatic Travel Bag
The Nomatic Travel Bag takes the stress out of packing for your next trip! Instead of a front zipper, the Nomatic Travel Bag uses a back zipper to enter the backpack. This makes airport security checkpoints a breeze as you have full access to your laptop sleeve and packing all in one quick zipper.
Other great features include water-resistant materials, tons of pockets and a convertible design. Use the sternum strap for additional support or tuck away the shoulder straps altogether for easy duffel carry.
The Nomatic Travel Bag comes in 30 liter (2-4 days) and 40 liter (3-5 days) sizes.
tomtoc Navigator-A82 Travel Backpack
The tomtoc Navigator-A82 is the affordable back zipper backpack you never knew you needed. This backpack gives you dual access to the main compartment. This means you can open the bag from the front or use the back zipper to quickly access your packing.
It's a carry-on backpack when you need it or a smaller travel bag on shorter trips thanks to the beefy compression straps. Plus, external pockets also give you quick storage or water bottles and tech.
For a closer look at the details, check out our tomtoc 40L travel backpack review.
WANDRD Hexad Carryall Duffel Backpack
The WANDRD Hexad is our favorite backpack with a back zipper for those who need a completly weatherproof travel bag with a tough construciton. WANDRD offers a lifetime warranty on their bags and the brand's dedication to quality shows once you get your hands on it.
The main packing compartment can only be accessed from a zipper on the back panel, giving the front of the Hexad a clean minimalist look. Inside you'll find internal pockets for smaller items, while the outside is loaded with pockets for quick access to essentials.
Lastly, the WANDRD Hexad Carryall Duffel Backpack is convertible. The removable backpack straps allows you to carry the bag like a duffel thanks to four different grab handles.
Our Favorite Camera Back Zipper Backpacks
Lowepro Pro Tactic 450 AW LI
The Lowepro Pro Tactic line of camera backpacks give you the storage you need to perform critical functions in the field but with a design usually only seen in tactical bags. It's the best of both worlds!
The inside of the Pro Tactic can be accessed through a back zipper to give you a birds-eye view of all of your photography gear. A side zipper and top zipper also gives you quick-access to your camera when needed.
This bag was made to be as adaptive as possible. The attachment loops throughout the backpack can be used to add pouches and cases, making it easy to quickly grab everything from water bottles to SD cards.
Tarion Camera Backpack
The Tarion Camera Backpack has long been one of our favorite hardshell backpacks to recommend to those who are serious about keeping their gear safe. Along with being enclosed in a shockproof EVA shell, the Tarion Camera Backpack also gives you a rear zipper to access the main compartment. This zipper allows you to fully open the bag to organize your camera and drone gear.
Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack 35L
The Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack is a hybrid camera and travel backpack made for every adventure. This back zipper backpack allows full access to the inside from the shoulder straps. Here you'll find all of your packing space plus a laptop pocket.
What makes the McKinnon Camera Pack special is the modular interior that allows you to pack exactly how you want. Use the included dividers to section off the main compartment for travel packing, photography gear, or both!
15 Backpacks with Secret Compartments - Tested and Reviewed!
We test dozens of bags to find the best backpacks with secret compartments and hidden pockets for travel and daily laptop carry.
A backpack with a secret compartment can be a great way to keep your valuables safe and secure. Whether you're traveling or just running errands, a hidden compartment can provide an added layer of security against theft while also keeping sensitive items out of sight from prying eyes.
In this buying guide, we review our favorite backpacks with secret compartments and explore which ones are the best for everyday carry, school, and travel. We found the WANDRD PRVKE to be the most versatile, while the Knack Convertible Duffel wins the title of the best bag for travel. However, we encourage you to check out all the options we reviewed, as we are sure there is something for everyone!
Video Review
Our Research
Best Backpack with Secret Compartments: WANDRD PRVKE
WANDRD PRVKE
The WANDRD PRVKE backpack is a versatile option for those who need a single bag that can handle all of their carry needs. It can function as a camera bag, travel bag, and daily laptop backpack due to its modular interior that can be customized to fit your needs. It is also available in three different sizes (21L, 31L, 41L) so you can find the one that fits you perfectly.
The PRVKE also has several secret compartments, including a rear valuables pocket and a bottom rainfly compartment that can be used as a secret stash pocket for flat items. It also has semi-hidden pockets for your keys and sunglasses, allowing you to easily stow away important items while still having quick access to them.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 21L (also available in 31L and 41L)
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Highly water resistant design
Modular interior for photography, travel and daily carry
Two secret compartments + two discreet exterior pockets
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The WANDRD PRVKE is our favorite bag with secret compartments due to its modular backpack design, which allows you to use it for travel, photography, and daily laptop carry. Its highly water-resistant design makes it perfect for a variety of adventures.
This backpack has two semi-hidden pockets for tech and keys and two additional secret pockets for stashing important items. That's four spots total for secure carry of essential items like a passport, cash, keys, and small tech items.
In addition to its impressive modular design, the WANDRD PRVKE is available in different sizes to best fit your body type and carry requirements. You can get the PRVKE in 21L, 31L, and 41L sizes. WANDRD also offers a mini size with the PRVKE LITE..
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The WANDRD PRVKE is our favorite secret compartment backpack for its large variety of secure pockets that aren't obvious at first glance. We have divided the hidden pockets and compartments in the WANDRD PRVKE backpack into two categories: discreet pockets and secret hidden pockets.
Discreet Pockets:
Fleece lined tech pocket: The fleece-lined tech pocket can be found on the top rear, right behind the rolltop opening. The black, water-resistant zipper does a great job of obscuring its presence, but the location makes it perfect for quickly grabbing items like sunglasses or tech.
Key garage pocket: The key garage pocket is a small pocket located on the side of the backpack, close to the back panel. Inside, you'll find a key clip and extra room for small items like earbuds or credit cards. When the WANDRD PRVKE is worn, the key garage pocket faces your back to prevent theft. Like the fleece-lined tech pocket, the black, water-resistant zipper obscures its location unless you really look.
Secret Hidden Pockets:
Hidden Back Panel Pocket: This zippered pocket can be found underneath the trolley sleeve strap on the back panel. The pocket itself is hidden inside the lumbar support mesh of the back panel and is large enough to fit a passport, wallet, phone, or any other valuables you need to keep secure. Many backpacks have secret pockets located against the back panel, but few keep them completely hidden the way the WANDRD PRVKE does.
Bottom Rainfly Pocket: There is a secret zippered pocket at the very bottom of the WANDRD PRVKE designed to hold a rainfly. The zipper stays tucked away under a fabric flap, and as long as you keep your hidden items flat (passport, folded documents, cash), then no one will be the wiser that it's in this pocket. It's incredibly sneaky, and it took us months to even find it!
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The Main Compartment
The WANDRD PRVKE has a unique main compartment design that allows for three-way access. The most obvious entry point is through the rolltop enclosure, secured by a metal hook and a strap that can be tightened or loosened. This makes the WANDRD PRVKE an expandable backpack, as the rolltop can be made larger or smaller as needed.
The second mode of main compartment entry is a little less obvious. There is a large clamshell zipper on the back panel that allows lay-flat access to the main compartment. From this entry point, you have access to your organizer panel pockets and laptop sleeve. Those looking for a built-in anti-theft design will love this feature as it secures laptop access when the bag is worn.
The third entry point is a small window pocket located on the side of the PRVKE. When used in conjunction with WANDRD's camera cube, it will provide you with quick access to your camera while on the move. If you choose not to use the PRVKE with a camera cube, this side zipper will allow you to access items inside the main compartment without having to open the entire bag.
Versatile Modular Design
One aspect of the WANDRD PRVKE that isn't talked about much in most reviews is its built-in modularity. As a modular backpack, the PRVKE allows you to configure the inside of the main compartment in a variety of ways to match your carry.
You can purchase the PRVKE with a camera cube to turn it into a split camera backpack. With this configuration, the bottom of the main compartment will be dedicated to your camera gear while the top rolltop portion can be partitioned for general carry.
When traveling, you can remove the camera cube altogether and keep the same "split" configuration to turn the main compartment into two separate compartments. This allows you to keep clothing in one partition and other items in another for better organization while traveling.
Need a backpack for daily carry? No problem! The main compartment can be configured into one large open compartment just like a regular daily backpack. This will allow you to store larger items like a lunch, notebooks, and binders. Thanks to its multi-access main compartment, you can grab items from the top rolltop or through the rear clamshell zipper.
What We Don’t Like
There really isn't a lot about the WANDRD PRVKE that we don't like. It has a laptop sleeve and a secondary tablet sleeve, which is amazing. The external pockets are perfect for quick access to daily and travel essentials, which we love. However, if we had to mention something about the PRVKE that we don't like, it's the internal pocket variety.
The internal pockets are geared more towards photography accessories, which could be a problem if you don't plan on using this backpack as a camera bag. Many of the internal pockets are very small and shallow, designed to accommodate common camera items like SD cards, glass filters, and adapters. If you aren't a photographer, you might find some of these pockets to be too small and have limited use for them.
Best Travel Backpack with Secret Compartment: Knack Convertible Duffel
Knack Convertible Duffel
Knack hits a home run with their Convertible Duffel! This travel bag can switch between backpack and duffel carry, and the main compartment is expandable, allowing you to use the same bag for short and long trips.
The Convertible Duffel has several discreet pockets for safety, including an internal water bottle pocket and a rear laptop compartment that isn’t obvious at first glance. However, the real hidden compartment is located against the luggage sleeve. This pocket is large enough for a passport, a cell phone, and other small valuables and blends in perfectly with the surrounding lining for a true top-secret compartment.
If you are looking for a similar backpack with a secret pocket for daily carry, be sure to check out the Knack Pack Series 2, which features the same hidden compartment.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24L (40L expanded)
Convertible from backpack to duffel bag
Can hold a weekend or full week worth of clothing
15” laptop compartment
Secret compartment located in back panel
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The Knack Convertible Duffel is deceiving at first glance because it does a great job at keeping a minimalist exterior that hides its most important features. But once you start diving in, you'll be surprised by how many great features are packed into such a simple-looking bag.
It's expandable (from 24L to 40L), convertible (duffel to backpack), and the inside is packed with an amazing variety of pockets to keep you organized while on the move. And yes, it also has a secret hidden pocket for valuables that's super hard to find if you aren't privy to its location.
We recommend the Knack Convertible Duffel for business travelers and frequent flyers who need one bag for short and long trips. When compressed, the Knack Convertible Duffel is compact enough to fit underneath most airplane seats, and when fully expanded, it still measures under most airline carry-on bag size requirements. No matter how you configure the Knack Convertible Duffel, it's bound to be your go-to travel bag.
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Knack has managed to design one of the sneakiest hidden compartments we have come across; in fact, it took us a few hours of careful inspection to even find it!
As a travel bag, the Knack Convertible Duffel is equipped with a trolley sleeve on the back panel, so you can attach the bag to rolling luggage. Right underneath this trolley sleeve is where you will find the hidden compartment.
This secret pocket measures around 6 x 6.5 inches and is large enough to hold a passport, cash, jewelry, and more. Once you tuck away the zipper, this pocket blends into the fabric and becomes barely visible for a true hidden spot to keep valuables.
Sneaky Exterior Pockets
Along with the super secret back pocket, the Knack Convertible Duffel does a great job at being discreet about all of its exterior pockets. Instead of your basic mesh water bottle pocket, Knack has included a discreet interior water bottle pocket that can be accessed from the side of the bag. Not only does this design keep germs away from your water bottle while traveling, it also gives the Convertible Duffel a cleaner appearance.
The second compartment that can be accessed from the exterior is the rear laptop compartment. The black-on-black zipper and fabric combo makes this compartment discreet, yet easily accessible for peace of mind while traveling.
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The Expandable Main Compartment
The bulk of your storage and organization will be found inside the main compartment, which is equipped with a lockable zipper that can be used with a standard TSA lock. Once open, you will be greeted with an organization panel with spots for pens and cables, as well as fleece-lined and mesh pockets for a tablet, sunglasses, and accessories.
The expandable packing compartment starts at 24 liters when compressed and expands up to 40 liters. 24 liters gives you enough packing room for an overnight stay or weekend trip, while the expanded size gives you about the same packing room as standard carry-on size rolling luggage.
To expand the main compartment, you have to engage the hidden zipper that wraps around the exterior of the Convertible Duffel. This zipper was designed to stay discreet for a cleaner appearance when the bag is compressed and is not readily visible. Expanding the bag takes seconds, and being able to double its capacity is one of the winning features of this travel bag.
Switching Between Backpack and Duffel
The Knack Convertible Duffel has one of the simplest mechanisms for switching between modes of carry that we have ever used. Many backpack brands overcomplicate the process, but Knack keeps it incredibly simple.
To switch between duffel and backpack modes, you just have to engage a zipper on the top of the back panel where the backpack shoulder straps are stored. Simply clip the shoulder straps to the D-rings at the bottom of the bag and you have a fully functional backpack. To switch to duffel mode, you just tuck the shoulder straps back into their pocket and clip the single duffel shoulder strap to the side D-rings. It's all a very intuitive process, and we have to commend Knack for keeping it so simple.
Another point to note is that both duffel and backpack modes feel complete. Many other brands make great duffel bags that feel terrible as backpacks, and vice versa, but the Knack Convertible Duffel does both very well. The shoulder straps and back panel are what you would find in Knack's other backpacks and are as comfortable as a native backpack. The size of the Convertible Duffel also feels just right in both duffel and backpack mode.
What We Don’t Like
A small gripe we have with the Knack Convertible Duffel is with its laptop compartment. Although generously padded, there is no false bottom to protect the laptop from bumps and drops.
A false bottom leaves additional space between the bottom of the laptop sleeve and the bottom of the bag itself to prevent the laptop from bottoming out and hitting the ground if the bag were ever dropped.
It's a small detail that makes a big difference when it comes to protecting expensive tech. Unfortunately, the laptop compartment of the Knack Convertible Duffel goes all the way to the edge, depriving your laptop of this extra protection. We have to admit that this is a hypercritical detail to complain about, but we had to mention it. All in all, this bag is pretty awesome.
Best Anti-Theft Backpack with Hidden Compartment: Pacsafe Go
Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Backpack
Do you know what’s better than a backpack with a secret compartment? An anti-theft bag built from the ground up to prevent snooping and theft altogether. The Pacsafe Go takes a ground-up approach to security by offering the Fort Knox of backpacks in a simple and unassuming design that won’t draw much attention when worn in public.
The main compartment and front pocket are equipped with integrated locks to prevent pickpocketing while the fabric itself is reinforced with steel wire mesh to counter “slash and grab” theft in crowded areas.
As for secret compartments, the Pacsafe Go features a hidden back panel pocket that’s large enough to fit multiple items like a phone, passport, and wallet. When the bag is worn, this creates a hidden compartment for major peace of mind against theft of valuables.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 25L (also available in smaller 15L size)
15” Laptop sleeve inside lockable main compartment
Self-locking zippers, reinforced anti-slash fabric and bag can be attached to table or chair leg to lock down to protect from bag theft.
Hidden security pocket located in back panel
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What makes the Pacsafe GO different from other backpacks with secret compartments is that it was built from the ground up as an anti-theft backpack. Secret compartments are great, but a complete anti-theft design that protects all of your important stuff is even better.
Unlike other anti-theft backpacks that give you a futuristic minimalist design, the Pacsafe GO was designed to blend in and not draw much attention. In fact, it looks like any old basic backpack at first glance, and we are pretty sure that's the whole point. The anti-theft features are discreet, and the overall design doesn't scream "steal me please."
We recommend the Pacsafe GO for travelers looking for an airline personal item backpack when they fly and a dedicated daypack when they arrive at their destination. Students will also benefit from the roomy main compartment for their books and class items, plus the anti-theft features to prevent theft on campus or during busy commutes.
The Pacsafe GO comes in a 25L size and a more compact 15L size. We tested the larger 25L size for this buying guide.
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The Secret Compartment
The secret compartment on the Pacsafe GO can be found against the back panel. It's a simple flat zippered pocket that measures 10 x 6.5 inches, which is large enough to stash airplane or bus tickets, a passport, and cash. When the backpack is being worn, this pocket becomes incredibly discreet to prevent pickpockets.
The Main Compartment
The main compartment gives you 25 liters of packing space, which is enough for an overnight trip or a busy day on campus. We found that you can easily fit multiple large textbooks, notebooks, and binders, or conversely, 2-3 changes of clothing if you are traveling.
Inside the main compartment is where you will also find a padded sleeve that can fit a laptop up to 15 inches. On the other side of the compartment, you'll find a single pen pocket and an RFID-blocking pocket that is just large enough to fit a passport.
Built-in Anti Theft Features
Like all Pacsafe bags, the Go is filled to the brim with anti-theft features to prevent pickpocketing and theft. For starters, the main compartment zipper is self-locking without the need for an additional lock. This is thanks to Pacsafe's "Zip Clip" design, which allows you to attach the zipper to an integrated clip to prevent the zippers from being used once locked down. One small design detail that we really like is how the main compartment zippers can be hidden completely by tucking them into the side of the bag once locked, adding another barrier of anti-theft protection.
The front compartment zipper has a different locking mechanism called a "dock lock," which takes seconds to implement. Although not as robust as the main compartment's Zip Clip, this design prevents passersby from opening your front compartment zipper. This design does take some time to get used to, but it works wonderfully when implemented.
But the anti-theft features don't end at lockable zippers; there are anti-theft features that are built into the bag itself. Our favorite has to be Pacsafe's eXomesh slashguard technology, a built-in stainless steel wire mesh that's embedded into the fabric. This technology makes your bag cut-resistant for ultimate peace of mind in crowded public spaces where slash-and-grabs are a common form of theft.
Pacsafe's slashguard technology is also used on the shoulder straps, which are reinforced with wire to prevent cuts and slashes. This leads us to one unique anti-theft feature that Pacsafe offers - being able to lock the entire bag onto a chair or table leg thanks to a detachable and lockable shoulder strap. When combined with slashguard technology, this feature gives you confidence in crowded cafes or any other public areas where bag theft may be a threat.
What We Don’t Like
Our one complaint about the Pacsafe Go is that the side water bottle pockets aren't stretchy! We can comfortably fit slim bottles like a 24oz Hydroflask bottle, but larger diameter bottles such as a 32oz Nalgene are a struggle to fit in. The pockets may stretch over time, but in the meantime, it's a pretty tight fit!
Best Laptop Backpack with Secret Compartments: Able Carry Daily Plus
Able Carry Daily Plus
The Able Carry Daily Plus is an updated redesign of the popular Daily Backpack, a laptop backpack for urban commuters, that adds more pockets for increased organization and a new, highly water-resistant construction.
Able Carry includes a couple of secret compartments in the Daily Plus such as a security pocket in the back panel large enough for a phone, passport, or wallet and a super-hidden pocket that is tucked away above the laptop sleeve for securing secret stashes. Of all the backpacks we have tested, the Able Carry Daily Plus offers some of the most clever secret compartments yet and we would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a solid laptop backpack for daily carry.
If you are looking for a backpack with similar hidden pockets you can go smaller with the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag (13L) or larger with the Able Carry Max Backpack (30L)
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 21L
16” Laptop sleeve and secondary tablet sleeve
Made with waterproof X-Pac textile with water resistant zippers
Two hidden compartments: internal and external
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Able Carry offers a great all-around laptop backpack for daily commutes and travel with the Daily Plus.
The Daily Plus excels in its variety of pockets, including a protective "tech station" with padded sleeves for a laptop and tablet, plus numerous extra pockets for accessories. In addition to your everyday carry pockets, there are a few secret compartments that provide added security for items you want to keep hidden.
We also appreciate the high-quality materials and construction that Able Carry provides. From the water-resistant exterior to the internal lining fabric, everything feels like top-notch quality and is enjoyable to use.
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The Able Carry Daily Plus has a few secret compartments that emphasize security and privacy.
The first is a discreet pocket located in the back panel above the shoulder straps. It's fairly roomy, measuring around 7.5” x 8”, and provides enough space to store multiple items, such as a passport, phone, wallet, and cash. The zipper to this compartment is hidden, making it a secure pocket against theft when the backpack is worn.
The second hidden compartment is a super secret stash pocket located on the inside of the main compartment, above the laptop sleeve. Behind the hidden zipper is a small pocket that's slightly larger than a credit card, completely hidden and ideal for secret stashes you want to keep from prying eyes. It's also a convenient location for GPS trackers, like an Apple Airtag or Tile tracker.
Another subtle compartment is the internal water bottle pocket located on the side of the bag, which can fit a water bottle up to 1 liter. The zipper can be challenging to spot at first and it's a great way to keep your water bottle safe during commutes or travel.
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One of the design details we appreciate about the Daily Carry Plus is its emphasis on tech protection. The 16-inch laptop sleeve and 11-inch tablet sleeve are located inside the main compartment and are designed to "float" in the middle of the bag, keeping your laptop and tablet away from any impact points, including the floor, due to a generous false bottom. While most backpacks have laptop sleeves, few design them with as much attention to detail as Able Carry.
What We Don’t Like
There isn't much we don't like about this backpack, and that's the honest truth. However, if you need a backpack for travel packing, the 21L main compartment may be too small. But Able Carry has you covered with the larger Able Carry Max, which offers many of the same great design details, including similar discreet pockets.
One potential drawback is that, although X-Pac is a robust, lightweight, and highly water-resistant material, it has a sporty appearance that may not be suitable for those who need a more professional-looking bag for the office. If you're in this category, keep reading for our top pick for a work backpack.
Best Work Backpack with Hidden Compartment: Nomatic Backpack
Nomatic Backpack
The Nomatic Backpack takes organization to another level by offering over a dozen different pockets and compartments while keeping the exterior sleek enough to wear to a business meeting in style. When we say this is a backpack with lots of pockets, we mean it!
But the Nomatic Backpack is more than a daily carry dream. Not in a backpack mood? No problem, tuck away the shoulder straps and carry the Nomatic Backpack as a briefcase. Need more room? The Nomatic Backpack is expandable. What about your super important items like a passport or credit cards? Spin the Nomatic Backpack around and you’ll find a secret pocket to keep your valuables safe and sound.
If you are looking specifically for a travel backpack then check out the larger Nomatic Travel Backpack that includes the same hidden back pocket.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (also available in smaller 14L version)
Water resistant construction
Expandable to give you 20% more room
Secret compartment is tucked away in back panel
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If we had to write an in-depth review of the Nomatic Backpack, it would probably exceed ten thousand words as there are just that many features in this bag. However, for now, you will have to make do with our summarized review.
We will say this: The Nomatic Backpack is full of surprises, with cable passthrough ports for charging and stowable shoulder straps that enable conversion into a briefcase. It's only natural that Nomatic includes a hidden back pocket.
Yes, we know that compared to other bags, the backpack with a hidden back pocket may seem like a cliché. But what Nomatic does differently is that they actually attempt to hide the secret pocket behind a foam panel instead of leaving it exposed. With its great quality and unique design details, we highly recommend the Nomatic Backpack as one of the best work backpacks for professionals currently available.
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The secret pocket is located at the back and is tucked behind one of the back panels, making it stay completely hidden when the Nomatic Backpack is worn, and obscured even when the backpack is not being worn. This design makes the Nomatic Backpack an excellent option for anyone looking for a backpack with a discreet back pocket, instead of the more common lumbar back pockets seen in other bags.
The back pocket is large enough to fit a passport book (4.94” x 3.5”) and just barely fits an iPhone 13 (5.78” x 2.32” x .30”), although some maneuvering is needed to place the phone inside the pocket.
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There are plenty of backpacks with many pockets, but few have a sleeker design than the Nomatic Backpack. Every wall of each compartment is lined with pockets! In total, we counted 27 pockets, including the hidden back compartment.
The front organizer compartment is where you can organize smaller items you need quick access to. This is where you'll find the RFID-safe pocket that can be locked with a TSA lock, adding an extra layer of protection. There are also smaller pockets for pens and stretch pockets that are perfect for small items like chapstick or a phone charger.
The main compartment is where most of your storage will be and it's equipped with a "mobile office": a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a tablet sleeve, and a third sleeve for documents, plus special pockets for tech items like a keyboard, mouse, and external hard drives. The walls of the main compartment are lined with stretch and zippered pockets for easy organization of tech chargers, sunglasses, keys, and more.
Expandable, Convertible and Always Professional
The Nomatic Backpack is both expandable and convertible. There is a wrap-around zipper on the outside of the bag that allows you to expand the main compartment from 20 liters to 24 liters. That 4 liter difference is about the size of a light jacket.
The backpack can also be carried as a briefcase on days you want to look more professional. The back panel is divided into two padded panels that can be unbuttoned at the top to allow you to tuck away the shoulder straps quickly and switch to briefcase mode. If you're looking for an attractive convertible backpack for work that can be carried on business trips and important meetings, the Nomatic Backpack is a great choice.
What We Don’t Like
Although the Nomatic Backpack excels in organization, it doesn't have much room for bulky items like lunch boxes, shoes, or camera cubes, even when expanded.
If you prioritize organization and plenty of pockets for your daily or travel essentials, the Nomatic Backpack is a great choice. However, if your packing style requires more open space for bulkier items, you may want to consider the Nomatic Travel Backpack, which provides more packing space in a similar design.
Best Budget Backpack with Secret Compartment: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
The Matein Laptop Backpack is one of the best-selling backpacks on Amazon, and it's easy to see why once you delve into all it has to offer. Along with three roomy compartments and dozens of smaller pockets, you also have an external USB port for on-the-go charging and secret compartment to keep important items safe.
There are two covert pockets on the Matein Laptop Backpack - the first is a front pocket with a hidden zipper that's large enough for a small notebook and other items you need quick access to. The second secret pocket is an anti-theft pocket located against the back panel. This rear pocket stays completely hidden when the backpack is worn to prevent pickpockets and theft. Not bad for such an affordable backpack!
Features at a glance:
Capacity: ~25L
15.6” laptop compartment with tablet sleeve
Integrated external USB charging port
Hidden pocket in back panel + discreet front pocket
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The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, stylish, and functional backpack at an affordable price. It is one of the best-selling backpacks on Amazon for a reason!
This backpack stands out for its variety of pockets and compartment design. It offers a good balance of large open compartments and smaller pockets for organization. Additionally, it has a built-in USB charging port.
We recommend the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack for students on a budget, travelers who need ample organization, and daily commuters who don't want to spend a lot on a laptop backpack. Although "travel" is in the name, the backpack is highly versatile.
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There are two pockets on the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack that could be considered hidden: the front-side zippered compartment and the back anti-theft pocket.
Discreet Front Compartment: There are two zippered pockets on the front of the backpack. The first is a visible horizontal zippered pocket, while the second is a little more concealed. This large horizontal zippered pocket is located behind the front panel and is not immediately noticeable.
Hidden Anti-Theft Back Pocket: Matein has added a hidden compartment on the back panel, located behind the lumbar cushioning. This anti-theft pocket remains unseen when the bag is worn and is large enough to hold a passport, wallet, or phone.
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As a Travel Backpack
Matein does not specify the capacity of the Travel Laptop Backpack, but it could be estimated to be around 25 liters. The main compartment is ideal for packing 1-3 days' worth of clothing, while the rest of the backpack can be used for personal and travel essentials.
The rear compartment is a separate tech compartment, which features a padded sleeve for a 15.6" laptop, a tablet sleeve, and space for a book, magazine, or large notebook. The front compartment is the organizer compartment and has several pockets for pens, chargers, and other small items.
This 3-way partitioned design allows for packing clothing in the main compartment, quick access to tech from the rear compartment, and organizing smaller travel essentials like headphones, water bottles, and reading material in the front organizer compartment and various pockets.
As a School Bookbag
We recommend the Matein Laptop Backpack for students seeking a budget-friendly option. The main compartment is spacious enough to store multiple large binders, notebooks, and books, and the separate laptop compartment offers a convenient way to keep your tech separate from your main carrying items.
We also appreciate the front organizer compartment for storing items like pens, graphing calculators, and other small personal items. The exceptional organization is what led us to recommend the Matein Laptop Backpack as the best affordable medical school backpack, but it could also be a great choice for high school or undergraduate students.
What we don’t like about this backpack
Our primary complaint about this backpack is that it feels rather flimsy, especially compared to other premium options on our list. The use of thin lining material on the interior and lightweight materials for the back panel and shoulder straps contribute to this feeling of cheapness. These small details add up and help explain why the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is so reasonably priced.
Is this a deal-breaker? No. You can't beat the value for the price. The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack offers great compartments, laptop and tablet sleeves, and even a discreet back pocket for added security during commuting or travel. For such an affordable backpack, one can't really complain.
More Great Backpacks We Tested
The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof
Constructed with a waterproof nylon shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers, The Ridge Commuter Backpack is a weatherproof backpack made with tech-centric carry in mind, thanks to a shock-resistant laptop compartment and tons of pockets to organize your accessories. A really awesome feature is the dual-zipper main compartment that gives you access through a regular top zipper or a 3/4 clamshell zipper for full access to all the pockets inside, making packing and unpacking a breeze.
The secret pocket can be found in the back panel, but what sets it apart from other similarly placed security compartments is that this pocket is fully lined with RFID-blocking material. This means you can hide important items like credit cards and passports inside this pocket to protect yourself from identity theft.
To learn more check out our full The Ridge Commuter backpack review.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L
15” shock-resistant laptop compartment
Weatherproof exterior: waterproof shell + YKK Aquaguard zippers
RFID-blocking secret pocket in the back panel
Able Carry Thirteen Daybag
The Able Carry Thirteen Daybag takes the best design features of the 20L Able Carry Daily Backpack and scales it down to a smaller 13L package. S-curve shoulder straps offer a more comfortable women’s fit while the compact profile provides a better fit for those with shorter torsos. Its myriad of pockets and clever design details is what makes the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag one of our favorite women’s work backpacks and one we would recommend to anyone looking for a compact bag for the daily carry.
If you are looking for a small backpack with secret compartments then the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag offers the motherlode. This backpack offers small hidden pockets in the shoulder straps can fit metro cards and credit cards. The back panel also features a secret security pocket for storage of a wallet, phone, or passport. Lastly, there is a semi-hidden pocket inside the main compartment above the laptop sleeve that provides extra security for important items.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 13L
14” laptop sleeve and secondary sleeve for tablet or notebook
S-curve shoulder straps for a better women’s fit
4 secret compartments: shoulder straps, back panel and above laptop sleeve
Knack Pack Series 2
It's hard to write a quick summary of the Knack Pack Series 2 because of how packed with features this backpack is. Where do we start?
For one, it has a secret packing compartment that stays hidden when not in use but expands to almost double the carrying capacity for travel or gym days. It also allows you to tuck away the shoulder straps to use the Knack Series 2 as a briefcase on days when you want to look a bit more dapper. And the pockets! There are so many pockets for organizing your daily essentials. We could go on and on about this backpack, but we'll stop here.
The secret compartment on the Knack Pack Series 2 can be found in the back panel behind the luggage trolley sleeve. This sneaky pocket blends in with the lining and is super hard to find if you don't already know it's there. Do you want a versatile daily + travel backpack with a super-secret pocket? This is it; we promise.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24L (35L expanded)
15” Laptop Compartment
Hidden packing compartment that expands for travel
Secret pocket located behind the trolley sleeve
Types of Secret Compartments
There are a few common types of secret compartments on a backpack. It turns out, there are only so many spots where you can place one! Each one is a little different, and we explain each type below so that you know what to look for when shopping for a new backpack.
Back Panel Compartments
The most common secret compartment location is against the back panel. This isn't for lack of creativity on the designers' part but is commonly used because this location is a tried and true safe haven from sticky fingers. When the backpack is being worn, these back panel pockets lay flat against your back, blocking off access to the pocket completely.
The best backpacks with secret compartments design their hidden back panel pocket so that you cannot notice the pocket at all, even when the backpack is not being worn. But usually, just having a pocket against the back panel is enough to deter most thefts.
Shoulder Straps Pockets
A less common location for a secret pocket is on the shoulder straps. These are usually small pockets for quick access to items like a subway metro card, a credit card, or other very small item that you want to keep hidden. These shoulder strap pockets are best for those who need quick access to small items and find back panel pockets to be too cumbersome to use.
Internal Secret Compartments
Some hidden compartments are found inside the backpack instead of the exterior. Think of these as Inception compartments - a compartment inside a compartment. If you are serious about keeping things hidden, then you'll want to go with a backpack with an internal secret compartment.
Who Is This Guide For?
Travelers Who Need Security
Why would anyone need a backpack with secret compartments? The first group of people we thought of is travelers who want to prevent theft. This is especially true in big urban centers in Europe and America where large crowds, cramped public transportation, and tourist attractions entice a number of pickpocketing schemes.
Valuables such as a passport, visa, credit cards, and cash are vulnerable to theft and can spell disaster if they go missing. Although there are plenty of ways to prevent common thieves, simply having a secure pocket inside the backpack you already carry can be a simple solution to the problem.
Everyday Carry with Discretion
This guide is also for anyone who just wants to keep personal belongings hidden from prying eyes inside their daily carry backpack. This can be especially useful if you're carrying something that you don't want anyone else to see, such as a gift for a friend or a sensitive item.
Although there are a fair number of backpacks with secret compartments, many brands don't advertise them, and those who do don't go into much detail as to where they are. In fact, some pockets took us months of use to find, and others we had to ask the brand to finally tell us where it was. But today, we will be sharing those secret pockets with you!
How We Tested These Backpacks
We spent a few months researching different backpacks with secret compartments before compiling our final list. The testing was done both in real-world scenarios (travel, daily carry) as well as in our studio to make sure each bag met our standards before recommending. There were a few backpacks that we either did not get to test or did not make the cut; some of these bags are listed at the end of this article for you to consider.
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Testing the secret compartments
A question we had was what people carry inside secret compartments, so we decided to only use common valuables so that our audience can understand the size and scale of each compartment in our photos.
Below are the items we used to test each secret compartment and their dimensions:
Passport Book: 4.94” (H) x 3.5” (W) (12.5 cm x 8.9 cm)
Cell Phone (iPhone): 6” (H) x 3” (W) x .3” (D) (15.24 cm x 7.62 cm x .76 cm)
Wireless Earbuds (Apple Airpods): 1.83” (H) x 2.14” (W) x .84” (D) (4.6 cm x 5.4 cm x 2.1 cm)
GPS/Bluetooth Tracker (Tile Mate): 1.37” (H) x 1.37” (W) x .24” (D) (3.5 cm x 3.5 cm x .62 cm)
We believe that exterior security pockets should always be large enough to fit at least a passport or phone, as these are the types of valuables that you need quick access to when traveling or commuting. Hidden interior pockets could afford to be smaller, to accommodate items such as Bluetooth trackers and other small items where the goal is to conceal the item being stored.
Is it a good quality backpack?
In addition to having a secret compartment, we took construction quality and comfort into consideration when rating and reviewing each backpack.
Construction and Materials - Backpacks with great zipper quality, robust stitching, and quality textiles 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?
With such a wide breadth of different designs available, we categorized each of our favorite backpacks so that you can consider each by use case. Our favorite backpack for travel might not be the best choice for someone looking for a reliable laptop backpack for daily commuting and vice versa, but these are just our suggestions.
Travel Backpacks
Travel backpacks come in two flavors: large travel bags for packing and smaller travel daypacks to use once at your destination. Larger travel bags include features such as large packing compartments for clothing, easy access to travel comfort essentials such as laptops, tablets, headphones, and water bottles, as well as secure storage for travel tickets and passports/visas.
Travel daypacks are not too different from your average daily laptop backpack, except they may have a few more extra features to make your life easier when on the move on vacation or on a work trip. These could include being small enough to use as an airline personal item backpack, having a trolley sleeve to attach to rolling luggage, and extra security pockets for when you visit busy tourist areas where the likelihood of theft is higher.
Daily Laptop Backpacks
A daily laptop backpack will be your go-to if you need a reliable backpack that can be used for work, school, and general commuting. The design emphasis on these bags is comfort, safe laptop carry, and enough organization for your daily essentials that will "live" inside your backpack. Think of items such as headphones, tech chargers, and sunglasses.
More Backpacks With Secret Compartments to Consider
1) Troubadour Apex
External Secret Pocket
We understand that not everyone needs a fancy bag, but why wouldn't you treat yourself to something special? The Troubadour Apex has always been a favorite men's backpack for work due to its mature design details and sleek minimalist style.
What the Troubadour Apex excels at is its functional pockets and compartments for daily carry and travel. It has spots for a laptop, pens, phone, tech accessories, water bottles, and more. These items are easily accessible during daily commutes or busy travel days.
The hidden pocket can be found between the shoulder straps on the back panel and is just large enough to hold a phone. This pocket remains hidden and out of sight unless you know to look for it, even when the bag is worn.
2) Public Rec Pro Pack Plus
Hidden Back Pockets
The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus is the backpack we like to recommend to anyone looking for a professional work and travel backpack or a work and gym backpack, thanks to its sleek design and thoughtful pocket placement that's perfect for roaming professionals.
What makes the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus backpack special is that it offers an attractive minimalist exterior while keeping enough pockets and compartments for daily organization. It manages to do this through discreet pockets that aren't very obvious at first glance. The largest compartment is the hidden shoe compartment at the bottom, whose zipper blends into the bottom of the backpack.
Another security pocket for a passport or wallet can be located on the side of the back panel. The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus also features a smaller hidden pocket behind its brand label on the back panel that's just big enough for something like a credit card or metro pass.
3) Revelry Supply The Explorer
Internal Hidden Pocket
Revelry Supply is known for their innovative, smell-proof bags, and with The Explorer, the brand offers the same technology in a more compact everyday carry backpack. In addition to being smell-proof, The Explorer is all about privacy and security. The main compartment is equipped with lockable zippers and a secret pocket can be found inside the main compartment for even more privacy for secret stashes. What makes this secret pocket special is that the lining of the bag obscures the pocket for a hidden-in-plain-sight effect.
4) Boundary Supply Errant Pack
RFID Blocking Back Pocket
The Boundary Supply Errant Pack is a versatile laptop backpack that pushes the envelope in terms of design. Some of its best features include magnetic buckles, separate laptop and tablet sleeves, a bottom shoe compartment, and the ability to access the main compartment from the top flap or from a rear clamshell zipper.
The secret compartment can be found on the back panel and features RFID-blocking protection for safeguarding a passport and wallet.
5) Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2
Internal Hidden Pocket
Designed as a modular backpack for camera, travel, and daily laptop carry, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is as versatile as backpacks come. This bag allows for top access to the main compartment from the top flap, in addition to side access to the inside through its innovative zipper design.
The secret compartment on the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 can be found on the inside of the top flap and is just large enough to fit a passport or wallet. It's one of those pockets that can be challenging to find at first, so make sure you really look!
6) 5.11 RUSH Backpack
External Front Pocket
The 5.11 Rush Tactical Backpack is EDC ready with its internal admin panel, improved laptop sleeve, and ample compartments to keep you organized. 5.11 offers the RUSH in various sizes, ranging from the compact 24L RUSH12 to the spacious 55L RUSH72 so you are bound to find one that’s right for you.
The secret compartment is a hook-and-loop concealed carry compartment located on the front of the bag. Even if you're not looking for a CCW backpack, the RUSH still provides excellent daily organization and discreet quick-access compartments to secure your gear.
11 Best Sling Bags with Water Bottle Holder - Top Water Bottle Slings
Stay hydrated in style! Whether you are looking for a simple water bottle sling or a larger sling backpack with a water bottle holder - this buying guide for you!
A sling bag offers an easy way to carry your essentials without the bulk of a full-sized backpack or messenger bag. Although crossbody slings have become popular in recent years most designs lack a simple feature - a water bottle holder.
In this buying guide we will help you find the best sling bag with water bottle holder for everyday carry and travel by showcasing some of our favorite designs you can buy right now. Whether you are looking for a roomy sling backpack or a simple water bottle crossbody sling, we have you covered!
Best Sling Bags with Water Bottle Holder
Nomatic Navigator Lite Sling Bag
If you are looking for the best sling bag with water bottle holder then the Nomatic Navigator Lite is definitely a top contender. What makes this sling bag special is that it keeps its water bottle holder hidden in a zippered side pocket offering you a sleek profile when not in use.
Nomatic offers sling bags with water bottle holders in a few different styles and sizes to fit your needs.
Learn more about the Nomatic Navigator Lite Sling
The Nomatic Navigator Lite Sling pack is also one of our favorite laptop sling bags for its versatility, streamlined style and high quality water resistant construction. Inside you’ll find some amazing features such as a padded laptop sleeve, RFID safe pocket and a cord pass through for easy charging of devices on the go!
Camelbak Arete Sling Pack
The Camelbak Arete is a nifty little water bottle sling bag that can be used as both as a hiking hydration pack or as a lightweight sling for exploring downtown. Each Arete sling bag includes a Camelbak water bottle that perfectly fits the stretch pocket on the front of the sling.
Learn more about the Camelbak Arete Sling
The Camelbak Arete is a “hydration sling” that was designed around active lifestyles and for those who want to keep their carry as light as possible while on the move. Along with the stretch water bottle holder integrated into the front of the sling bag, you’ll also find a mesh pocket inside the main compartment that can fit an 1.5L water bladder for additional hydration options when on the trail.
Other great features on the Camelbak Arete include a roomy 8-liter interior main compartment for daily essentials and the option to switch between left and right shoulder carry.
Mosiso Sling Backpack
Available in almost a dozen colors, the Mosiso Sling Backpack is a budget-friendly sling with some pretty impressive features for the price.
The side mesh pockets allow you to carry up to two water bottles while the zippered pockets throughout its design makes it easy to organize daily essentials such as an iPad, phone and accessories. Whether you are looking for a water bottle sling for hiking or a lightweight everyday bag for essential carry - the Mosiso Sling Backpack has just the right features.
Sherpani Esprit AT Sling Bag
The Sherpani Esprit AT is a modern women’s sling bag with a water bottle holder that offers easy hands-free carry on busy days. We love the Sherpani Esprit AT for its ergonomic tear-drop design and soft padded shoulder strap for all-day comfort. The stretch water bottle pocket can be found on the side of the sling and snaps back into place for a cleaner look when not in use.
Learn more about the Sherpani Esprit AT Sling Bag
If you are looking for a stylish yet functional sling bag with a water bottle holder then you can’t miss with the Sherpani Esprit AT! Designed for daily carry and travel alike, the roomy 10-liter capacity is perfect for carrying daily staples such as a water bottle, sunglasses, iPad and wallet. A water resistant exterior also gives this sling bag an edge during rainy days.
When traveling you’ll love the anti-theft features that Sherpani has built into their design including a special RFID protected pocket, anti-slash bottom and zip loop locks to keep your zippered pockets secured.
HydroFlask Slingback Bottle Pack
The Hydroflask Slingback is a water bottle sling that offers an easy way to carry essentials with a special front pocket that can hold up to a 32oz bottle. This water bottle crossbody sling is designed to keep you organized and features a padded tablet sleeve, keychain clip and a rear security pocket for valuables like a wallet or phone.
Under Armour Unisex Flex Sling Bag
The Under Armour Flex Sling Bag is a versatile, lightweight and affordable sling bag that gets the job done in style. Whether you need an easy way to carry your gym gear or a lightweight one strap backpack for school - the UA Flex has you covered.
Learn more about the UA Flex Sling Bag
The Under Armour Flex is the perfect sling backpack with water bottle holder for those who need a lightweight yet versatile bag for gym days or practice. The whopping 15L volume is larger than most sling bags on the market today yet its lightweight polyester and stretchy mesh construction keeps you nimble on busy days.
The roomy stretch pocket on the front of this bag can hold everything from a light sweater to shoes while the side pockets allow you to carry up to two water bottles. Inside you can pack in clothes and gym gear with some room to spare.
Nomatic Navigator Sling Bag
Made with durable water resistant materials, the Nomatic Navigator Sling is an impressive sling backpack with a water bottle holder that is packed to the gils with features. Unlike other sling backpacks that feature their water bottle holder as an exterior pocket, Nomatic has designed a hidden mesh pocket that allows you to keep a sleek profile when not in use.
Read more about the Nomatic Navigator Sling
Nomatic is known for designing innovative backpacks for work and photography and their slings are definitely cut from the same cloth. When it comes to comfort, each Navigator Sling comes with a hidden stabilizing strap for extra support when you need it. Their back panels are also some of the best we have seen in a sling backpack thanks to its molded foam design that’s equipped with airflow channels to keep you cool on warmer days.
Do you carry lots of tech? Then this sling bag is made for you. The Nomatic Navigator Sling includes a separate padded compartment for a tablet or gaming device with its own zipper access to keep your expensive tech secure and easy to reach. The inside of the main compartment is also lined with pockets for your chargers, cables and accessories with cord management integrated into the design.
Other killer features include a special RFID protected pocket, tamper-proof zippers and a tough water resistant construction that will keep your sling bag looking great day after day.
3V Gear Outlaw II Urban Sling Backpack
With a whopping 24 liters of carrying capacity, the 3V Gear Outlaw II is a sling backpack that means business. Along with a side water bottle holder for easy-access to hydration, this bag also includes a padded laptop sleeve, some serious pockets for tech and an anti-theft design for peace of mind when on the move.
Learn more about the 3V Gear Outlaw II
The 3V Gear Outlaw II is a sling backpack with water bottle holder for those who are serious about organization. The two front EDC and admin compartments are lined with pockets for easy storage of your tech and smaller essentials while the main compartment features a 13-inch padded laptop sleeve and plenty of open storage room for your daily grind.
Need a water bottle sling for hiking? In addition to the exterior water bottle pocket, the Outlaw II is hydration compatible. The laptop sleeve doubles as a hydration pocket to transform the Outlaw II into a lightweight hiking sling.
A generously padded single shoulder strap and EVA molded back panel makes the 3V Gear Outlaw II comfortable enough for extended wear on longer days. The included stabilizer strap will also keep the sling from sliding around on heavier packing days.
OutdoorMaster Sling Backpack
Offered at an affordable price, the OutdoorMaster Sling Backpack gives you the features you need in sling bag without the high price tag. The single water bottle holder can be found on the side of pack while the interior features plenty of pockets and compartments for up to a 12-inch tablet and your daily essentials.
The OutdoorMaster Sling Backpack is available in a few fun colors to match your style.
Best Water Bottle Sling Bags
A water bottle sling bag is comprised of a main pocket that can hold a water bottle or coffee travel mug plus an extra pocket or two for stashing small items. This is a great option for those who want to keep their carry light while still having the hands-free benefits of a crossbody sling bag.
Wild Wolf Outfitters Water Bottle Holder
The Wild Wolf Outfitters Water Bottle Holder is made for those looking for a rugged water bottle sling for hiking, sports events and lightweight daily carry.
This water bottle sling is made from military grade materials to protect your gear from the elements. The water bottle pocket is also lined with neoprene to help keep your water bottle insulated and cool. Outer pockets give you extra room to stash your wallet, phone and keys for true hand-free carry when on the move.
What we like most about the Wild Wolf Outfitters Water Bottle Holder is that it comes in a variety of different sizes to fit your specific bottle. From their smaller 25oz holders to a whopping 128oz water bottle sling - Wild Wolf Outfitters has you covered.
Nuovoware Water Bottle Sling
Compact and budget-friendly, the Nuovoware Water Bottle Sling is one of our favorite options if you are looking for an affordable water bottle sling with pockets for small essentials. This crossbody sling is made out of neoprene - a lightweight water resistant material that also insulates to keep your drinks cool. Two external pockets give you extra room for small items such as keys, a cell phone and driver’s license.
14 Best Expandable Backpacks For Travel, Laptop & Commuting
Is an expandable backpack the one bag that can do it all? We review the best expandable backpacks for travel, commuting and daily laptop carry.
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.
14 Best Backpacks for Medical School - Tested for Real Med Students
In this buying guide we test and review the best backpacks for medical school. From classes on campus to long days in residency - these backpacks have you covered!
Looking for the best backpack for medical school? Let us help!
In this buying guide we test and review over a dozen backpacks just for medical school students. From roomy compartments for books and tech to pockets to keep your residency gear organized - we are sure you will find the best med school backpack for your needs.
How We Chose These Backpacks
Finding the best backpack for medical school can be a challenge when shopping online but we make it easy by sticking to specific criteria that students absolutely need when starting their medical school journey.
Pictured: Inside the Knack Pack Series 2 backpack
1.Great Organization
Whether you are a first year student or gearing up for residency, a good medical school backpack needs to offer amazing organization. We made sure that each of the backpacks on the list have plenty of pockets and compartments to keep you nice and organized.
Pictured: GULU Made Innovator with laptop and tablet sleeves
2.Laptop and Tablet Sleeves
Every med school backpack needs a laptop compartment and a place to quickly access a tablet. A good backpack should keep your expensive tech safe and give you the organization you need to thrive on busy days.
Pictured: The Ridge Commuter Backpack
3.Stylish and Mature Design
We aren’t in undergrad anymore! Why not upgrade to something a bit more mature and stylish? Most of the backpacks on this list are sleek enough to use beyond medical school and are built to last years, not just a few semesters.
Best Backpacks for Medical School
Knack Pack Series 2
The Knack Pack Series 2 is our top medical school backpack for its professional design, incredible organization and variety of color and size options.
What makes the Knack Pack special is its special hidden “travel” compartment that expands when you need it. While the main compartment is perfect for books and folders, the expandable travel compartment can be utilized for gym gear or a change of clothes during residency.
See the Knack Pack Series 2 in action
What makes the Knack Pack Series 2 the best backpack for medical school:
Available in Medium and Large sizes for the perfect fit
Water resistant with PU coated fabric and YKK water resistant zippers.
Mature design made with premium materials
Separate laptop and tablet compartments
Best organization - there are pockets for everything!
Main compartment is large enough to fit multiple binders, books and folders
Built-in expandable hidden compartment for clothing
Best in class organization
The Knack Pack Series 2 has one of the best designs when it comes to organization. Along with a massive organizer compartment on the front, the main compartment is also lined with larger pockets for mid-sized gear such as a tablet, a stethoscope and notebooks.
Separate Laptop and Tablet Sleeves
The Knack Pack Series 2 offers a 15” laptop sleeve that can be found against back of the bag which features side zipper access so that you can reach for your laptop without disturbing the other compartments. For tablet carry, Knack includes a fleece-lined pocket inside the main compartment. Separate dedicated laptop and tablet pockets allow you to keep you organized and your tech safe.
Expandable Hidden Travel Compartment
Need more packing room? Expand the Knack Pack’s travel compartment for additional storage! This allows you to keep a compact profile on light days and carry extra shoes and clothing on busier days all with the same bag.
Stylish and Mature Design
The Knack Pack Series 2 is currently available in Medium and Large sizes and each size is available in a variety of mature colors. The sleek exterior is made with either high-density 420D nylon or a 600D two-tone polyester ottoman fabric. Both materials are PU coated for water-resistance and have an upscale look and feel. The water-resistant YKK zippers on the Knack Pack are smooth as butter and have held up flawlessly during our extensive use and testing.
This is one of those bags that we can confidently say that feels as good as it looks. If you are looking for a medical school backpack that you can use beyond graduation then the Knack Pack Series 2 will be a solid choice.
Nomatic Backpack
The Nomatic Backpack is one of the best backpacks for medical school thanks to its innovative features, sleek professional look and an expandable main compartment that will be sure to come in handy on long busy days.
One of the Nomatic Backpack’s standout design features is that is boasts over a dozen pockets for everything from water bottles, notebooks, a laptop and a tablet. If you want a backpack that will help keep you organized then we recommend giving the Nomatic Backpack a closer look.
See the Nomatic Backpack in action
What makes the Nomatic Backpack the best backpack for medical school?
Sleek and professional exterior design
Can be carried as a briefcase on days you need to look more professional
Separate Laptop and Tablet sleeves to keep your tech safe
Expandable main compartment: 20-24L
Made of durable water resistant materials
Tons of compartments to keep you organized
The Perfect Med Student Backpack
With over a dozen pockets and compartments the Nomatic Backpack is perfect for students who want a backpack that they can grow into throughout their years in medical school. With a roomy main compartment and tons of organization options, Nomatic will make transitioning from the classroom to residency a breeze.
This bag is also one of the few medical school backpacks that can be used beyond graduation thanks to its clean professional appearance and ability to be converted into a briefcase when needed. Simply tuck away the shoulder straps to change your look!
Find a Spot For Everything
The 20L main compartment in the Nomatic Backpack is large enough to store multiple binders, notebooks and folders for busy class days. Need additional room? The Nomatic Backpack expands to a total of 24L so that you can pack extra clothing or gym gear on the days you need it.
One design feature that we really like is that both sides of the main compartment are lined with pockets with the backside featuring a full tech and document station that includes both a laptop and tablet sleeve plus extra mesh pockets to keep all of your tech accessories and chargers together for easy access.
A smaller compartment on the front is lined with additional pockets for quick access to personal and professional items such as a pocket reference guides, small notebooks, stethoscope, pens and more!
The North Face Surge
Available in both a men’s and women’s fit, the North Face Surge is a workhorse of a backpack designed to tackle the needs of busy students and professionals alike. As a backpack for medical school you’ll enjoy the Surge’s large 31 liter main compartment that can hold everything from shoes and clothes to bulky binders and books.
See the North Face Surge in action
What makes The North Face Surge the best backpack for medical school?
Roomy 31 liter main compartment
Available in men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit
Lots of pockets on the front for easy access to smaller items
Great protective laptop compartment with extra spots for a tablet and book
Modern look designed specifically for work and school
For the medical student with multiple tech devices
We have always been big fans of the laptop compartments in premium North Face backpacks for their protective design that keeps your expensive tech safe and the Surge is no exception.
Unlike other North Face backpacks that only feature a single padded laptop sleeve, the laptop compartment on the Surge has an expanded design that allows for storage of a 15-inch laptop, a large tablet and a notebook or textbook. In fact, the laptop compartment in the Surge is roomy enough to hold two laptops if needed. The expanded laptop compartment gives you quick access to items such as a notebook or book without having to rummage through the main compartment.
In addition to the laptop compartment, The North Face Surge also includes a separate fleece-lined tablet sleeve that is located in the organizer compartment. Unfortunately, this front tablet sleeve is too small for a full sized iPad and iPad Pro but it can store an iPad Mini and other smaller tablet models. You can store larger tablets inside the laptop compartment.
The Ridge Commuter 20L Backpack
The Ridge Commuter backpack is one of our favorite backpacks for medical students thanks to its insane organizational pockets and sleek compact design. The outer weatherproof shell also makes the Ridge Commuter perfect for students who commute to campus and need their valuables protected from the elements.
See the Ridge Commuter in action
What makes The Ridge Commuter a great backpack for medical students?
Streamlined minimalist design without the bulk
Tons of pockets for personal, school and residency gear
Side-access laptop compartment (up to 16” Macbook Pro)
Weatherpoof design is perfect for commuters
Conquer Your Commute to Campus
If you are looking for backpack that will last you all four years of medical school then it’s worth noting that The Ridge Commuter doesn’t disappoint when it comes to quality. The outside of the bag is made with a waterproof 900D ballistic nylon and is equipped with tried and true YKK Aquaguard zippers to protect your important stuff from the elements. This backpack also feels as good as looks with beefy padded shoulder straps and a molded foam back panel for all-day comfort.
Serious Organization for the Serious Medical Student
The Ridge Commuter is a deceptive little bag since its minimalist design doesn’t prepare you for the incredible array of pockets and compartments that line the inside. From pens to tech chargers - you’re sure to find a spot for everything.
From the outside you also get a couple of sneakily placed pockets for items such as headphones, a stethoscope or phone. These outer pockets allow for quick-access to your most important gear in seconds.
Dual Access Main Compartment
A great feature of The Ridge Commuter is it’s dual-access main compartment that features two different zippered access points. The first zipper allows you to access the main compartment like a regular backpack which works great for loading books and notebooks.
The second zipper allows you to use the Commuter as a clamshell backpack. This lay-flat design is great for utilizing all of the pockets that line the inside of the bag and comes in handy when packing clothing and gym gear.
Matein offers an affordable backpack for medical students with everything you need to get through long days on campus and during your residency. This backpack is definitely our top pick for medical students on a budget thanks to its tech compartment for a laptop and tablet, a large main compartment and tons of pockets for organizing your daily carry.
See the Matein Laptop Backpack in action
What makes the Matein Laptop Backpack a great backpack for medical students?
Available in two sizes (for 15.6” and 17” laptops) and in various colors to fit your needs and style
Tech compartment with seperate laptop and tablet sleeves
Integrated external USB charging port
Roomy main compartment for large binders, books and clothing
Great pocket placement
Med School Ready
The Matein Laptop Backpack can be divided into three compartments: the front organizer compartment, the large main compartment and a rear tech compartment. We found the main compartment large enough to hold plenty of large folders, binders and books or a weekend’s worth of clothing.
The tech compartment includes both a laptop sleeve and separate tablet sleeve. This compartment also leaves enough room to hold an additional notebook or book if needed. For quick access to small items you are going to want to take advantage of the front organizer compartment where there are small pockets for sunglasses, a medical reference guide, pens and more.
Best Backpack for Medical Students on a Budget
Matein is a value brand found on Amazon but it’s no secret that they offer some of the best backpacks for medical school for those on a tight budget thanks to their great designs. You can usually grab a Matein Laptop Backpack for under $50 and at this price point the features this backpack includes are pretty impressive.
If you are looking for a bombproof backpack that can take the abuse of four years of medical school then you might want to take a look at some of the more premium backpack options on this list. With the Matein Laptop Backpack you just won’t be getting high end features such as water repellent fabrics, YKK zippers or ergonomic comfort features that are the standard in more expensive bags.
But what you do get is an affordable backpack with great pocket placement and a comfortable wear which can definitely be a huge win for medical students on a budget. The integrated USB charging port is also a great feature for long days on the move and a simple addition that most expensive bags lack completely.
GULU Made Innovator Backpack
Equipped with a laptop and tablet sleeve, two roomy main compartments and plenty of pockets to keep you organized - the GULU Made Innovator has everything you need to conquer medical school in style.
The Innovator offers a 22 liters capacity for everything from tech to large binders and notebooks. This mid-size backpack keeps its profile slim while still providing enough room for medical school essentials.
See the GULU Made Innovator in action
What makes the GULU Made Innovator a great backpack for medical school?
Slim profile with a mature design
Lots of pockets for organization
Roomy enough for bulky items such as a change of clothes, binders and books
Padded sleeves for both laptop and tablet
Water, abrasion and dirt resistant ballistic nylon exterior
GULU Made offers What We Need in a Reliable Med School Backpack
At only 22-liters, we found the GULU Made Innovator to be roomier than it looks. The backpack can be divided into two major compartments - the main compartment and a smaller secondary main compartment that includes padded laptop and tablet sleeves with extra room for a couple of books or notebooks. This split-style design is perfect for medical students who like to keep their class items and a change of clothes or lunch in separate compartments.
The front pockets are made of two separate slim compartments with small pockets for stuff like pens, headphones, a wallet or a phone. The GULU Made Innovator makes organizing small items incredibly simple which is to be expected in a great backpack for medical students.
Built to Make a Positive Difference
Each GULU Made product is handcrafted in Gulu, Uganda by local residents in an effort to build a hopeful future after years of civil-conflict. The brand prides itself in employing highly-skilled local sewers to give back to the city of Gulu and in offering high quality bags and backpacks for all to enjoy in the process. Click here to learn more about the GULU Made story.
Knack Pack Series 1
The Knack Pack Series 1 is one of the most versatile backpacs on our list and it’s easy to see why once you delve into all of its great features.
The quality of the bag itself is top-notch with robust zippers and high quality fabrics. Even the inner lining is made with an antimicrobial fabric that will leave your backpack smelling fresh after long days on campus. It’s little details like these that make us love the Knack Pack Series 1 and why we believe you will too!
See the Knack Pack Series 1 in action
What makes the Knack Pack Series 1 a great backpack for medical school?
Available in multiple colors and sizes - find the perfect one for you!
Lots of great pockets for organizing school, personal and tech items
Hidden expandable travel compartment for when you need extra room
Robust high quality construction that will last beyond medical school
Seriously comfortable back panel and shoulder straps for all day wear
The Swiss Army Knife of Backpacks
The Knack Pack Series 1 is a fun and functional backpack that is more than meets the eye. The expandable travel compartment stays hidden on light days and can be utilized on longer days where packing extra gear is a must. The best backpacks for medical school all include pockets for protecting your expensive tech, lots of great ways to keep you organized and a stylish design. And it’s in all of these areas where the Knack Pack Series 1 really shines!
Knack offers the Series 1 in a wide range of different sizes and colors that makes it easy to match a Knack Pack to your body type and personal style. This is one of the few medical school backpacks we recommend that is offered in such a wide variety of fit options.
Why choose the Knack Pack Series 1 over the Series 2 for medical school?
The Knack Pack Series 1 has more size options (Small, Medium and Large), has a few more color options and is more affordable than the Knack Pack Series 2. To explore the difference between the two bags take a look at our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 backpack comparison.
The North Face Recon
The North Face Recon is one of the most popular backpacks for school, work and play thanks to its versatile design. The spacious 30-liter main compartment gives you enough packing room for a full day on campus while the large variety of pockets and compartments allows great organization for daily essentials.
The Recon is available in both men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit!
See The North Face Recon in action
What makes The North Face Recon one of the best backpacks for medical school?
Great pocket placement for daily essentials
Protective 15” laptop compartment
Roomy main compartment for books, clothing and more
Water resistant design
Available in tons of colors and men’s and women’s fit options
Modern design
Great Organization and Carry Options
Backpacks from The North Face are known for their great pocket placement and the Recon is no exception. Each Recon is equipped with a quick stash pocket on the front that allows you to stash items on the go without having to dig into zippered pockets. Other pockets include a large fleece lined pocket for sunglasses and two side pockets for water bottles or an umbrella.
The inside of The North Face Recon can be divided into the front organization compartment, the 30-liter main compartment and a padded laptop compartment. The main compartment is large enough to stash everything from notebooks and books to a packed lunch or even a change of clothes and a pair of shoes. On lighter days you can take advantage of the Recon’s side and bottom compression straps to lessen the bulk when on the move.
A Backpack for School and Weekends
One reason we love The North Face Recon is that has an incredibly versatile design. Along with being a great medical school backpack, the Recon can also be taken on hikes and other outdoor adventures. The rear laptop compartment can be converted into a hydration pocket thanks to the small velcro loop and hydration port found inside.
For days in the city the Recon also features reflective points for visibility at night, an ultra-protective 15” laptop compartment and plenty of pockets to stash essentials such as wallets, phones and a metro card.
Osprey Nebula Backpack
With a large main compartment and plenty of pockets to keep you organized, the Osprey Nebula is one of our favorite backpacks for medical students who need a spacious bag to conquer long days.
Read more about the Osprey Nebula
What makes the Osprey Nebula a great backpack for medical students?
Large 32L main compartment for books, clothes and other bulky items
Includes a front panel organizer compartment for quick-access to small items
Large lay-flat laptop compartment for stowing away tech
Upper and lower straps can compress the bag down and helps stabilize your load on light carry days
What makes Osprey backpacks special is that the brand uses comfort designs usually reserved for technical hiking backpacks on their daily commuter backpacks. This means you get an ergonomically designed backpack that puts an emphasis on proper weight distribution and comfort in a design sleek enough for the city.
Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack
Touting a sophistical design with premium materials, the Troubadour Bivy proves that you can have a functional backpack that is also stylish. This backpack is large enough for stowing away medical school essentials including books, tech and a change of clothes. The weatherproof zippers and fabric also makes it a great option for city students who need a reliable backpack for daily commutes.
Read more about the Troubadour Bivy
What makes the Troubadour Bivy a great backpack for medical school?
Professional look made with premium materials
Convertible tote backpack (you can tuck away the backpack straps)
Roomy main compartment for notebooks, books and more. Lots of pockets on the inside for organizing your daily essentials.
Large padded 17” laptop sleeve
Stealthy front pocket to quickly stash away keys, notebooks and essentials
S-shaped shoulder straps for a comfortable women’s specific fit
The Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack is best for medical students who need a stylish way to carry their daily essentials with the added peace of mind of a weatherproof construction. In fact, the Troubadour Bivy even made it to our list of best waterproof backpacks for women thanks to its waterproof fabrics and water resistant zippers.
What the Bivy does best is keep you organized. Inside the main compartment there are plenty of smaller pockets for your medical school and personal items plus a 17-inch padded laptop compartment and additional tablet sleeve for your tech. At a 21 liter capacity, we recommend this backpack to medical students who want a sleek and versatile way to carry their items without too much bulk of a larger backpack.
Thule Subterra Backpack
Designed as a versatile backpack for travel and daily commuting, the Thule Subterra is one of our favorite backpacks for medical school thanks to its roomy 30-liter main compartment, separate tablet and laptop sleeves and clean minimalist exterior.
Read more about the Thule Subterra
What makes the Thule Subterra a great medical school backpack?
Protective 15” padded laptop sleeve with side zipper access
Seperate soft-lined tablet sleeve
Plenty of smaller and mesh pockets for organizing your gear
Roomy 30L main compartment for large binders, books and extra clothes
Great quality construction that Thule is known for
The Thule Subterra is available in a few different base colors that are mature and will blend well in residency environments. One feature that we really like is that the inside of the Subterra is lined with a bright contrasting color so that it’s quick and easy to spot your items.
The laptop sleeve inside the main compartment uses Thule’s SafeEdge construction that prevents the laptop from touching the edges of the bag in case of a hard drop or bump. This laptop sleeve also has dual access through the main compartment or through a special side zipper so that you can always quickly grab you laptop even when the main compartment is fully packed.
All in all the Thule Subterra has many must-have features for busy medical students who need to lug a lot of gear through long days on campus and during residency.
Doughnut Macaroon
Available in over a dozen colors, the Doughnut Macaroon is perfect if you are looking for a compact and fun backpack for medical school. The 14-inch padded laptop sleeve keeps your tech safe while a full panel of smaller pockets helps keep your essentials organized.
Read more about the Doughnut Macaroon
What makes the Doughnut Macaroon the best small backpack for medical school?
Dozens of color options and a fun stylish design
Padded 14” laptop sleeve
Roomy main compartment for notebooks and large textbooks
Lots of pockets for organizing smaller items
Great construction that’s built to last
Often described as a Fjallraven Kanken alternative, it’s the small details on the Doughnut Macaroon such as its robust stitching, infinite color options and amazing array of pockets for organization that sets it above other backpacks in its class.
Despite it’s smaller size, the standard Doughnut Macaroon can still fit a couple of large textbooks and additional notebooks and folders inside its main compartment. The quality of the Macaroon also doesn’t disappoint - this is a backpack this will still look great after years of daily use thanks to its hard-wearing construction of water-repellent fabric, metal hardware and leather trim.
Pacsafe Vibe Backpack
The Pacsafe Vibe is an anti-theft laptop backpack with a streamlined look that is perfect for medical students who commute daily to class or residency. A few of the anti-theft features include lockable zippers, an RFID blocking pocket and the ability to attach and lock the backpack to a leg or table chair.
We love the Pacsafe Vibe as a medical school backpack for it’s great organization, mature design and lightweight construction that makes all-day carry a breeze.
Read more about the Pacsafe Vibe
What makes the Pacsafe Vibe a great backpack for medical school?
Unisex design available in multiple colors
Protect your valuables with anti-theft features
Padded 13-inch laptop sleeve
Lots of pockets for pens, water bottles and tech accessories
Spacious 25 liter internal capacity
The Pacsafe Vibe is a great blend of a feature-rich design to get you through long days of classes and a slim and sleek style for more professional residency settings. The front organizer compartment is great for organizing smaller items you need quick access to while the 25-liter main compartment is large enough for class and residency essentials such as binders, books or an extra change of clothes.
On the weekends you’ll also have the ability to take the Pacsafe Vibe outdoors thanks to the fact that the laptop sleeve can double as a hydration pocket. The lightweight design of the Pacsafe Vibe allows for comfortable all-day wear while a removable hip belt, sternum strap and compression straps allow you to dial in the perfect fit.
Osprey Centauri
The Osprey Centauri is a unisex laptop backpack with a lightweight construction, minimalist design and loads of features for comfortable daily carry. Inside the 22 liter main compartment you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets to organize your items for easy commutes to class or residency.
Read more about the Osprey Centauri
What makes the Osprey Centauri a great medical school backpack?
Slim design gives you the room you need for carrying essentials without the bulk of a larger backpack
Includes a padded 15” laptop sleeve and secondary sleeve for a tablet or documents
Great for bike commuting - includes loop for attaching a light
Stretchy water bottle pockets that allow for a discreet look when not in use
How to Choose the Best Medical School Backpack
Choosing the right size
A backpack’s capacity is usually measured in liters and when shopping online the the number of liters is an important way to determine how much can fit inside the backpack you are looking to purchase.
To keep life simple, we like to divide backpack capacities into three size categories: small, medium and large.
Small (under 20L)
Small backpacks under 20 liters are best for students who only need to carry essential items such as a laptop, tablet, and a few personal items. The main compartment can usually accommodate a few textbooks and binders or a change of clothes but not both at the same time.
Medium (20-29L)
Most medical students will fare well with a medium sized backpack between 20 and 29 liters. Here is where you can pack a full day’s worth of books and notebooks plus have room for a few personal and work items. Medium backpacks are a “Goldilocks” size between a backpack being too small and too large and bulky.
Large (30L+)
If you are a medical student who has long days between school, work and the gym then you are going to want to go with a large backpack with a capacity over 30 liters. At this size is where you’ll find plenty of room in the main compartment for large textbooks, binders, lunch and bulkier items like shoes and a change of clothes.
For a more in-depth guide on backpack capacity sizes please check out our Ultimate Backpack Size Guide where we show real examples of what fits inside backpacks of different sizes.
The Ridge Commuter (left) and Nomatic Backpack (right)
Don’t Forget About Pockets!
A backpack with the right pockets and compartments is essential to keeping organized while in medical school. If you mostly write notes and read textbooks on a laptop or tablet then you will want to make sure that the backpack you choose has both a laptop and tablet pocket to keep your expensive tech secure.
Other valuable pockets include water bottle pockets, a key leash for your keys and smaller pockets for items like eyeglasses, pens and your residency gear. We did our best in finding backpacks for medical school that include plenty or organizational compartments but ultimately you have to decide which compartments are must-haves and which ones you could do without.
14 Best Backpacks with Chest Straps - School, Laptop, Travel
In this buying guide we list a few of our favorite backpacks with chest straps. From daily laptop to travel backpacks - you’re sure to find the best bag for you!
A backpack chest strap (or sternum strap) is an adjustable belt that spans from one shoulder strap to another across the chest.
Chest straps help reduce shoulder strain by promoting proper weight distribution and stability when lugging around heavier loads. For this reason we recommend going with a backpack with a chest strap if you often carry large laptops and other heavy items.
Backpack with chest strap example
Oddly enough, many backpacks simply don’t have chest straps and finding one can be hit or miss depending on the brand.
That’s why we have listed a few of our favorite backpacks with chest straps. From laptop backpacks to travel bags - you’re sure to find the best bag for you!
Best Daily Laptop Backpacks with Chest Strap
The North Face Borealis is a versatile mid-sized laptop backpack that can be used for school, work commutes and outdoor adventures. The Borealis is available in both men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit.
Each Borealis comes equipped with an adjustable chest strap with a built-in whistle and a removable waist strap. The North Face’s own FlexVent suspension design does a great job at providing ergonomic shoulder straps and a breathable back panel for comfortable carry.
Read more about the North Face Borealis
Features at a glance:
Mid-size backpack with chest and waist strap
28L capacity (27L women)
15-inch laptop compartment
Adjustable bungee cord system that allows you to carry additional gear
Great organization and lots of pockets for sunglasses, tablets, pens and chargers
If you are looking for a reliable backpack with a chest and waist strap then you’ll love what The North Face Borealis has to offer. At a 28 liter capacity (27L for women), the Borealis gives you the room you need to pack for work, school or travel without being too bulky.
One feature we love about North Face backpacks is their exterior padded laptop compartments. The laptop compartment on the Borealis can fit up to a 15-inch laptop and can be accessed from a separate zipper by the back panel. This you can keep your tech safe and separate from your main compartment items. For outdoor activities such as hiking, you can also turn the laptop compartment in to a hydration pocket. The North Face includes a velcro water bladder loop and a small opening for running a hydration tube to the outside of the backpack.
The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack
The Ridge Commuter is a compact laptop backpack with a chest strap for both weekday commutes in the city and weekends outdoors thanks to a weatherproof nylon shell and water resistant zippers. As a daily tech pack, you’ll love the myriad of pockets that line the inside. A clamshell main compartment and separate shock-proof laptop compartment make organizing your most important items a breeze.
Read more about The Ridge Commuter
Features at a glance:
Backpack with sternum strap for work commutes and weekends
15L capacity
Weatherproof construction
Tons of smaller pockets for organization
Built-in USB port for phone charging
Shock-resistant laptop compartment
Don’t let its compact footprint fool you - The Ridge Commuter is packed with enough pockets and compartments for a busy day. Each Commuter features a clamshell backpack design that allows for full access to the pockets that line the inside while a second zipper gives you traditional top-loading access for quickly grabbing items on the move. A separate shock-proof compartment for your laptop gives extra peace-of-mind when lugging your expensive tech from point A to B. The outside of the pack is also lined with additional pockets for quick storage options.
If the myriad of pockets isn’t enough, the Ridge Commuter is a long time favorite charging backpack thanks to its built-in USB port that leads to a special internal charging pocket. This allows you to charge your devices while on the move when connected to a mobile power bank.
As for comfort, the Commuter has you covered with an adjustable sternum strap for proper weight distribution when the bag is jam-packed.
Dakine 365 Backpack
The Dakine 365 offers a back-to-basics sternum strap backpack for the daily grind. A roomy 30-liter main compartment is great for overnight stays and long days on campus while a padded laptop sleeve and an additional tablet sleeve keeps your tech secure. One awesome feature of the Dakine 365 is its insulated cooler front pocket that keeps your drinks and food fresh while on the move.
Read more about the Dakine 365 Backpack
Features at a glance:
School and travel backpack with sternum strap
Roomy 30L capacity
Available in over a dozen colors and patterns
Padded laptop sleeve and fleece lined tablet sleeve
Insulated cooler pocket for lunch and drinks
Fleece lined sunglasses pocket
Osprey Nebula Backpack
The Osprey Nebula is a powerhouse daily pack for work, college and daily commuting. What makes the Nebula special is that Osprey has applied their hiking technology to a daily backpack and as a result you get a laptop backpack with a chest strap and waist belt for great load stabilization and a soft breathable back panel for comfortable all-day wear.
Read more about the Osprey Nebula & Nova
Features at a glance:
Large daily backpack with chest and waist strap
Men’s and women’s versions for a perfect fit
Lay flat padded laptop compartment
Admin compartment for organizing smaller items
Plenty of exterior pockets for water bottles, phones and more
The Osprey Nebula and Nova are great options for those who need a roomy daily pack for work, school and travel thanks to their large main compartments and amazing array of pockets for organization.
The lay flat laptop compartment allows for quick access to a 17” laptop, paperwork and magazines. It also makes air travel a breeze by being TSA-friendly.
If you are serious about organization then you’ll love this backpack’s array of smaller pockets throughout its design. The outside of the pack features a front mesh pocket for quickly stashing away mid-sized items. Side water bottle pockets and a cell phone/sunglasses pocket also makes grabbing essentials a breeze.
As for comfort, Osprey integrated a back panel and harness system that’s usually reserved for more technical outdoor packs. As a result you have a reliable sternum strap backpack that does a great job at adapting to different loads. The top and bottom compressions straps help stabilize your pack while an adjustable chest and waist strap allows you dial in just the right weight distribution for comfortable all-day wear.
Pacsafe Vibe Anti Theft Backpack
The Pacsafe Vibe is the perfect companion for city commuting and light travel thanks to its anti-theft features and fresh minimalist design. Some of our favorite features include cut-resistant materials and lockable zippers, a padded 13” laptop sleeve that can double as a hydration pack pocket and a multitude of pockets for keeping you organized.
Read more about the Pacsafe Vibe
Features at a glance:
Anti-theft backpack with chest and waist strap
Unisex fit and design
13” laptop sleeve
Admin compartment for organizing smaller items
Lockable zippers, RFID pockets, and slash-resistant materials for safe carry of your belongings
The Pacsafe Vibe is an urban backpack for your daily essentials that’s roomy enough for a gym kit or an overnight stay. This is thanks to its 25-liter internal capacity that hits a sweet spot for daily carry.
Along with a 13-inch laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets for organization, the Pacsafe Vibe also features some innovative anti-theft features that will keep your gear safe and sound wherever you roam. Some ant-theft features include wire-reinforced slashguard shoulder straps, integrated locking zippers and a security clip that allows you to secure your bag to leg and table chairs.
When it comes to comfort the Pacsafe Vibe doesn’t disappoint. Each backpack is equipped with an adjustable hip belt and a removable waist belt for carrying stability. The shoulder straps also include a band tie to enable you to tuck away the strap and prevent dangling.
Patagonia Black Hole
Patagonia offers water resistant durability for work and play with their line of Black Hole backpacks. Equipped with a chest strap for increased stability and an air mesh back panel for cooling ventilation, the Black Hole backpack allows for comfortable carry day in and day out.
Read more about the Patagonia Black Hole
Features at a glance:
Water resistant sternum strap backpack
Made from lightweight recycled ripstop
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Front daisy chains for attaching additional gear
Great for school, commuting and weekends outdoors
The Patagonia Black Hole backpack is available in a few different sizes for the perfect fit. You can currently choose from a small 23L women’s size and larger 25L and 32L sizes.
If you are looking for a sternum strap backpack that’s rugged enough for the daily grind then the Black Hole might be just the ticket. We love the Black Hole for its versatile design that is perfect for daily urban carry or outdoor adventures.
Each bag is made from recycled materials and features a highly water resistant TPU-film laminate that keeps out rain and moisture. In fact, the Black Hole has made it to our list of best waterproof backpacks for college.
For a bag so tough, the Black Hole is actually surprisingly lightweight. This is thanks to its recycled polyester ripstop construction and airmesh back panel that keeps you cool without the additional bulk of heavier back paneling. The included adjustable sternum strap helps with proper load distribution for an additional point of comfort.
The North Face Recon
The North Face Recon is one of the most versatile backpacks for school, commuting and travel thanks to its roomy 30-liter main compartment, incredible organization and new sleek design.
Each Recon backpack includes a sternum strap, waist belt and features North Face’s FlexVent breathable back panel and ergonomic padded shoulder straps for a comfortable fit that’s certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
The North Face Recon is available in both a men’s and women’s fit.
Read more about the North Face Recon
Features at a glance:
Versatile backpack with chest strap for school, work and travel
Available in men’s and women’s versions
15” Laptop compartment and separate tablet sleeve
Amazing organization thanks to exterior fleece lined pockets and admin panel
Flexvent Suspension System back panel and shoulder strap for comfortable fit.
The Recon has long been one of the North Face’s best selling backpacks and it's easy to see why. The 30-liter main compartment is just the right size for a busy day on campus or a weekend trip plus its outdoor-inspired design makes it a great bag for the trail.
One of our favorite features on the Recon is it’s padded 15-inch laptop compartment that is separate from the main compartment. Not only is this compartment built to protect your expensive tech but it can also be converted into a hydration pocket for a water bladder on outdoor hikes.
Other great features include a tablet pocket, an admin compartment for organizing smaller items and a fleece lined sunglasses pocket. No matter what you carry - the Recon has a spot for it!
The North Face Recon was built for comfortable carry from the ground up. In fact, it’s even certified by the American Chiropractic Association thanks to its FlexVent suspension system. Since the North Face Recon is available in both men’s and women’s fits you can be sure to find a version that accommodates your body type. If you are looking for a backpack with a sternum strap then you will love the adjustable chest strap and removable waist strap that is included for comfortable weight distribution and support.
Under Armour Hustle Pro Backpack
The Under Armour Hustle Pro is the perfect choice if you are looking for a sports and gym backpack with a chest strap and a ton of clever features for organizing important gear.
Awesome features include an insulated zippered water bottle pocket, a large gusseted pocket for shoes or laundry and an adjustable clip on the shoulder strap to help carry an additional duffel bag.
Read more about the Under Armour Hustle Pro
Features at a glance:
Laptop and gym backpack with chest strap
Special numbered shoulder strap system for dialing in balanced weight distribution
Insulated pocket for water bottles and snacks
15” soft-lined laptop sleeve
Available in multiple colors
The Ridge Classic Weatherproof
The Ridge Classic Weatherproof Backpack is a small backpack with a sternum strap for those who need a simple yet versatile pack for running errands, outdoor adventures or as a travel daypack.
The weatherproof design keeps your important items safe from the elements while a 22L main compartment, padded laptop sleeve and internal pockets gives you the room you need to stay organized.
Read more about the Ridge Classic
Features at a glance:
Small backpack with chest strap
Waterproof tarpaulin shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers
22L main compartment
Padded laptop sleeve
External USB port for charging on the go
Lightweight design
The Ridge Classic Weatherproof backpack has to be one of our favorite backpacks for those who want a simple backpack with a quality design.
Although its classic profile may make it look like any old backpack - trust us when we say that the Ridge Classic Weatherproof anything but ordinary.
One of our favorite features is the built-in USB port and power bank pocket. This allows you to safely store a mobile power bank so that you can charge your phone and other mobile tech while on the move.
The water resistant design is also top-notch. Not only is the exterior made from a waterproof nylon shell but the Classic Backpack is also equipped with YKK Aquaguard zippers to protect your stuff from rain and splashes. From days on campus to weekends at the beach - The Ridge Classic Weatherproof backpack is guaranteed to be the perfect companion.
Fjallraven Ulvo Daypack
Perfect for the trail and daily grind alike, the Fjallraven Ulvo is a versatile daypack for life on the move. The Ulvo features an internal laptop sleeve and admin panel inside the main compartment to keep your tech and accessories nice and organized while the bag’s outer shell is made out of Fjallraven’s own Bergshell fabric that is known for its durability and waterproof properties.
The Fjallraven Ulvo is equipped with an adjustable sternum strap for increased load stability. The bag is also available in both a 23 liter and 30 liter versions for the perfect fit.
Read more about the Fjallraven Ulvo
Features at a glance:
Everyday backpack with chest strap
23L and 30L versions available
15” internal padded laptop sleeve
Admin panel for organizing pens and accessories
Made with durable waterproof fabric
Side stretch pockets for water bottles
The Fjallraven Ulvo combines the focus on ergonomic comfort of a hiking backpack with the simpler form of a daily urban backpack. This is thanks to its padded curved shoulder straps, comfort mesh back panel and an adjustable sternum strap that helps with weight distribution for all day comfort.
Part of what makes the Ulvo Daypack so special is that its made from a mix of waterproof Bergshell fabric and recycled nylon - two strong fabrics that fare well against normal wear and tear. Bergshell is a new proprietary fabric made by Fjallraven that is completely waterproof and has amazing abrasion resistance and tear strength. As a result you get a tough bag that will stand the test of time.
Travel Backpacks with Chest Straps
Osprey Farpoint Travel Backpack
The Osprey Farpoint is a travel backpack with a chest strap and hip belt for short and long journeys alike. What makes the Farpoint special is Osprey’s use of hiking technology on travel luggage that puts an emphasis on proper fit and comfort.
You can choose from Small, Medium and Large harness sizes to ensure a great fit. The Farpoint is also available in 40 liter, 55 liter and 70 liter sizes so you are sure to find the right size based on your travel needs!
Looking for a women’s specific fit? Check out the women’s Osprey Fairview.
Read more about the Osprey Farpoint
Features at a glance:
Travel backpack with chest strap and hip belt
Available in 40L, 55L and 70L sizes
Custom fit with different size packs (Small-Large)
Lightweight fabrics keep weight to a minimum
Convert to duffle mode with stowaway harness
Lockable laptop and tablet compartment
Knack Pack Series 2
The Knack Pack Series 2 is one of the most versatile backpack designs available today for both work and travel.
Most work-travel combo backpacks on the market force you to lug around a big heavy bag even on the days you aren’t traveling. What is unique about the Knack Pack is that has the ability to transform from an everyday backpack to a travel bag thanks to a special hidden suitcase compartment. This hidden packing compartment stays tucked away until its time to expand the bag.
Each Knack Pack comes with an adjustable sternum strap that can be removed completely for a cleaner look.
Read more about the Knack Pack Series 2
Features at a glance:
Expandable work and travel backpack
Adjustable and removable chest strap
Massive admin compartment for personal, tech and travel items
Includes a roomy main compartment for daily use and a separate hidden travel compartment
Water-resistant exterior
Inside is lined with antimicrobial fabric to keep everything smelling fresh
Want to find out the difference between the original Knack Pack and the Knack Pack Series 2? Check out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison.
Osprey Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack 44
With the Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack 44, Osprey offers the lightweight and durable construction of their Daylite in a roomier carry-on size. Along with a 44 liter main compartment that opens like a suitcase - this backpack also features a quick TSA laptop compartment, stretchy side pockets for water bottles and a front organizer pocket for keeping your smaller items within reach.
Each Osprey Daylite Carry-On 44 is equipped with a chest strap for even weight distribution with heavier travel loads. The shoulder straps also stow away for easy handling on overhead compartments.
Read more about the Osprey Daylite Travel Pack
Features at a glance:
Carry on travel backpack with chest strap
44L capacity
Open flat 16” laptop compartment
Suitcase-style main compartment
Plenty of pockets for smaller items, passport, water bottles and tech
Nomatic Travel Pack
The Nomatic Travel Pack is perfect for anyone looking for a modern backpack that adapts to how you travel. This backpack was designed to be used both as an everyday pack and a travel bag thanks to its main packing compartment that expands from 20 to 30 liters as needed. Throughout the Nomatic Travel Pack you’ll find dozens of innovative pockets and compartments for everything from a laptop, passport, water bottles, and tech.
The Nomatic Travel Pack comes standard with an adjustable sternum strap for additional comfort - this sternum strap comes in handy when the bag is expanded. Nomatic also offers a comfort-padded waist strap as an add-on if you wish increase the Travel Pack’s stability.
Read more about the Nomatic Travel Pack
Features at a glance:
Travel adjustable sternum strap backpack
Expandable: 20L to 30L
Water resistant construction
Tons of pockets for organization
RFID Safe Pocket
Cord Pass-Through for charging on the move
TSA lay-flat laptop compartment
13 Best Backpacks that Open Like a Suitcase - Travel Backpack Guide
Why choose between a backpack and a suitcase when you can carry a travel backpack that opens like a suitcase? Here are our top picks.
When it comes to travel backpacks one of the most important features is easy access to your packed clothes, shoes and toiletries.
Unfortunately, most backpacks that are great for daily carry really lack the proper features to successfully pack for a weekend getaway. If you have ever found yourself unpacking an entire backpack just to access a pair of fresh socks at the bottom of the main compartment then you know the struggle.
Rolling suitcases are no better. They are big, bulky and limited in how you can carry them.
Suitcase vs Backpack: Why not both?
The best solution for overnight stays and weekend trips is a combination of both a suitcase and a backpack a.k.a a backpack that opens like a suitcase. These travel backpacks allow you full access to the main compartment but give you the freedom and ease of use of a regular backpack. No more annoying rolling luggage. No more awkward backpack packing. No more compromises.
This list features our favorite travel backpacks that open like a suitcase plus some brands worth checking out for even more options. We focus mostly on travel backpacks in this guide but if you are looking for smaller everyday carry options make sure to check out our list of the best clamshell backpacks - it’s the same concept just in more manageable backpack sizes.
Best Backpacks that Open Like a Suitcase
eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible
Our top pick for the best backpack that opens like a suitcase is the eBags TLS Motherlode Weekender Convertible. This travel backpack has some of the best pocket placement in its class. Along with a spacious main compartment, you’ll find a front loading compartment with organizers, small pockets for sunglasses and magazines and a clever water bottle pocket that can be hidden when not in use. Add in a separate 17” laptop compartment and you have the perfect travel backpack.
The carrying capacity is a whopping 54 liters which is large enough for longer trips. Side compression straps also make it easy to control the size of the backpack when used for short overnight stays where the full capacity is not needed. If 54 liters is too large, eBags has you covered with the smaller 41 liter eBags TLS Mother Lode Junior.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 54L
17” inch padded laptop compartment
Meets most airline carry-on requirements
Nomatic Travel Pack
The Nomatic Travel Pack is the travel bag for anyone looking for a backpack with amazing pockets and organization. This is especially try for those of us that carry lots of tech and need storage for small items like chargers, cables and headphones. There is seriously a pocket for everything. A small sample of pockets include a full mesh pocket panel, magnetic water bottle pockets, RFID safe pocket and hidden pockets for things like a passport or cash.
When it comes to backpacks that open like a suitcase the Nomatic Travel backpack might be the bridge between a daily backpack and a reliable travel bag. This is because the Nomatic Travel Pack is expandable - starting out at 20 liters for daily use and expanding out to 30 liters when it’s time for your next trip.
Features at a glance:
Expandable capacity: 20-30 liters
Lots and lots of useful organizer pockets for small daily essentials and travel items
TSA friendly laptop sleeve
Stubble & Co The Adventure Bag
Designed to adapt to how you travel, the Stubble & Co Adventure Bag is a compressible travel backpack that opens like a suitcase for easy compliance to strict air travel bag requirements and impromptu road trips alike.
What makes the Adventure Bag one of the best travel backpacks currently available is in its intuitive packing design. You have a special pocket for shoes and laundry, a myriad of exterior pockets for stuff like a passport and boarding passes and a roomy clamshell main compartment with plenty of dividers to keep your clothing and travel items organized. Add an exterior padded laptop compartment and you have a bag that keeps all important items easily accessible and within reach.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 42 liters
Designed to be used as a carry on bag - compression straps allow bag size to accommodate any airline.
Waterproof design
AmazonBasics Carry On Travel Backpack
Amazon takes a crack at travel bags with their AmazonBasics Carry On Travel Backpack. This bag is one of the more affordable backpacks that open like a suitcase on the market today yet it still holds up to its more expensive competitors thanks to a large main compartment capacity, smart organizer pockets and convenient travel features.
This backpack is great for anyone looking to replace rolling luggage with an all-in-one travel backpack solution. The dimensions fit most airline carry on requirements and the tuck-away shoulder straps allows you to carry the AmazonBasics Carry On Travel Backpack like a duffel or suitcase. For under $50 we think this is one of the best travel backpack options out there.
Features at a glance:
Expandable main compartment
Large front loading organizer compartment for small items
Separate padded laptop sleeve
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45
Pacsafe offers a travel backpack that opens like a suitcase and it is packed with plenty of anti-theft that the brand is known. At 45-liters the Venturesafe EXP45 was designed to replace your carry-on rolling luggage altogether by provide a huge main compartment for clothes, gear and more. We also appreciate the inclusion of a separate organizer compartment for smaller items and your laptop - keeping your packed clothing and daily essentials separate for maximum organization.
The backpack’s anti-theft features include lockable zippers and a clever top latch that hides your zipper pulls on top of the backpack. The PacSafe Venturesafe EXP45 is made out of slash and puncture resistant fabric to protects against thieves as well as to add the toughness you need in a travel bag.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 45L
Anti-theft design
15” laptop padded sleeve
Bange Expandable Travel backpack
If you are looking for a backpack that opens like a suitcase on a budget then we highly recommend taking a closer look at the Bange Expandable Travel backpack. This backpack can be best described as a “tech meets travel” backpack thanks to the bag’s shockproof laptop compartment plus pockets for tech accessories like cables and chargers. It even includes an external USB port for charging your phone on the go!
It’s the small details Bange includes that make this travel backpack worth it - a plastic zip pocket for liquids (shampoo, body wash, etc), plenty of external pockets, lockable zippers and more.
Features at a glance:
Available in medium and large sizes
Expandable design
Water resistant front panel and anti-abrasion construction
Osprey Transporter Carry On 44
The Osprey Transporter Carry On is perfect for anyone looking for a modern travel backpack that is made to accommodate their tech and travel items. This is thanks to the Transporter’s great front panel compartment that makes organizing things like your chargers, passport and more into a simple task. The backpack’s organization is made even better with a large 44 liter main compartment with mesh dividers for easy storage of your clothes.
Along with amazing organization, it’s Osprey’s carry options that makes the Osprey Transporter Carry On special - things like a convertible backpack to duffel design, adjustable sternum strap and waist belt really make a difference when lugging around your bag during busy travel days.
Need something smaller for international travel? Check out the 36L Osprey Transporter Global Carry On backpack.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 44 liters
Separate padded laptop compartment
Convertible backpack to duffel design
Water resistant TPU-coated materials
Topo Travel Bag
Topo Designs is a brand out of Denver known for their high quality outdoor-inspired backpacks and gear. Their Travel Bag is designed to function as an all-in-one travel backpack that meets most airline carry-on requirements yet still has enough room for a few days of travel. Available in both 40 liter and 30 liter sizes the Topo Travel bag has enough pockets, organizers and features to make it the last travel backpack you’ll ever need.
An awesome yet often overlooked feature of the Topo Travel Bag is that it can be used as a modular carry system. The backpack includes Topo’s Packfast Bag Attachment clips that allow you to attach a daypack to the front of the backpack. This allows for capacity expansion plus a way to carry your smaller backpack without taking up room in the main compartment.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 40L or 30L
3 way carry - backpack, duffel or briefcase
Lots of clever pockets for clothing, personal items and tech
Meets most airline carry on requirements
Knack Expandable Knack Pack
The Knack Pack is a hybrid daily use and travel backpack that allows you to use its generously sized suitcase style main compartment when traveling and compress it down to a regular daypack when you get to your destination. This clever design feature allows you to use the Knack Pack in any just about any situation which is why it’s one of our favorite backpacks that open like a suitcase.
The Knack Pack is available in 3 different sizes so you can choose the best one for your needs. The most popular 31 liter Medium Knack Pack is perfect for use as a weekender backpack or airline carry-on while the Large Knack Pack is great for longer trips. Finally, the Small Knack Pack is ideal as an airline personal item backpack when you just want to pack the essentials.
Features at a glance:
Expandable suitcase-style main compartment
15” easy-access padded laptop pocket
Plenty of pockets and compartments for smaller items
Designed to fit underneath airline seats
Solo Grand Travel TSA Backpack
The Solo Grand Travel TSA backpack is a special one because it combines the style and features of a daily work backpack with the must-have features of a travel bag. Equipped with a 17.3” laptop compartment that is TSA-friendly this backpack allows you to keep your tech and personal items in separate compartments. Plus a variety of pockets and organizers on the front of the backpack allows you easy-access to small items you need frequently like pens, headphones and more.
We recommend the Solo Grand Travel TSA backpack to anyone looking for a travel backpack that opens like a suitcase that can still be used at the office or as a gym backpack. The 30 liter main compartment is perfect for packing a change of clothes and the various pockets and laptop compartment still allow you to use it as a functional daily backpack.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 30L
Airport friendly 17.3” laptop compartment
Plenty of smaller pockets and organizers for daily items
Cotopaxi Allpa
The Cotopaxi Allpa proves that minimalist design doesn’t have to be boring. On the outside you’ll find a sleek profile with grab handles and tucked away pockets in all the right places. But on the inside is where the real magic happens - the Allpa backpack opens like a suitcase to reveal a spacious main compartment filled mesh pockets for incredible organization of clothes and gear.
One of our favorite features of the Cotopaxi Allpa is it’s weight-distributing low profile harness system that makes all the difference in comfort when carrying a heavy-load. The Cotopaxi Allpa is also available in various sizes so you are sure to find one that fits just right.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 28-70 liters
Made super tough: TPU-coated 1000D polyester and 840D Ballistic Nylon
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Shoulder straps can be tucked away so that bag can be carried like a duffel
Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC
Patagonia’s attention to detail is what makes the Mini MLC one of our favorite backpacks fo city commuters and travelers alike. Features such as a separate TSA-friendly laptop compartment, front admin compartment and a roomy packing compartment with mesh organizers gives you what you need to stay organized on busy days.
For anyone looking for a smaller backpack that opens like a suitcase, we think the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC’s 26 liter capacity is the perfect size for shorter trips or daily gym commutes. In fact, the Mini MLC was designed to fit strict global carry on requirements making the perfect worry-free travel companion.
Looking for a bigger size? Check out the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Backpack series that is available in 40L to 100L sizes.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 26 liters
TSA approved 15-inch laptop compartment
Meets international carry on requirements
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
The Peak Design Travel Backpack is perfect for anyone who values quality materials, weatherproof construction and carry customization. Along with its weatherproof fabrics and zippers, the Peak Design Travel Backpack really shines when it comes to its multiple entry points to the main compartment. You can access the main compartment from the front, or for even more access you can open the backpack with a clamshell zipper from the back. Peak Design even gives you side access with a side zipper for quick grabs.
This versatility is what makes one of the Peak Design Travel Backpack one of the best options for anyone looking for a backpack that opens like a suitcase. Its accessibility is unrivaled thanks to Peak Design’s eye for detail and functionality.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 45L
Multiple entries to the main compartment
Smart pockets for tech and smaller items
Made of weatherproof materials and zippers
More brands to consider
Now that we have listed our picks for the best backpacks that open like a suitcase, we thought we would introduce you to some brands that do a great job at offering similar travel backpacks. These brands are worth checking out if you are looking for different styles of backpacks that have large open clamshell access compartments to replace your rolling luggage the next time you travel.
eBags
The eBags house brand of bags and backpacks offer great options for anyone looking for quality travel backpacks. Along with their popular Mother Lode Weekender Convertible we recommend looking into the eBags TLS Mother Lode Rolling Weekender which offers the same features of the regular Mother Lode but with the addition of wheels and a traditional luggage handle.
For tech enthusiasts, eBags also offers the eTech Carry-On Travel Backpack which features plenty of pockets and organizers made to store tech accessories like a mouse, cables and chargers.
Opsrey Packs
Osprey offers an incredible variety of backpacks for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike with special consideration for proper fit and overall comfort. Those who wear their backpacks for prolonged periods will appreciated that just about every Osprey backpack is available in both a women’s and men’s specific fit.
Whether you are looking for a small 30L travel backpack for weekend trips or a larger 70 liter pack for prolonged travel - you’ll find the size and features you need with Osprey.
Knack Bags
Knack is a brand that comes highly recommended if you are looking for a high quality backpack that doesn’t compromise on style. The brand is known for their innovative convertible Knack Packs that allow for a two-in-one solution for both daily carry and travel.
Knack Packs feature great options for organizing daily essentials and feature a hidden expandable compartment that opens up like a suitcase when you need it. We love these bags for daily work commutes, gym days and as a carry-on option for flights.
Knack currently offers their Knack Pack in two flavors: Their flagship Series 1 and their new Series 2 that gives you better organization and security. For help choosing between the two we recommend checking out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 backpack comparison.
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
19 Best Sling Backpacks - Laptop and Tablet Side Backpack
Explore the best sling and side backpacks for laptop, tablet and everyday carry from top brands. Perfect for college, work or daily commutes these sling backpacks are sure to be packed with features you’ll love.
What’s a sling backpack? It’s a one-shoulder bag that has the capability to be worn on your back, side or even chest and they are great for accessing items quickly. Some other common terms are sling pack, sling bag or side backpack.
One thing you should know about sling backpacks is that they are usually much smaller in capacity than a regular two-shoulder backpack. This is because carrying a large heavy bag just isn’t as comfortable with all that weight on one shoulder. A heavier bag also doesn’t have the same functionality to just swing around for quick access which is usually the main benefit of choosing a sling backpack over a regular backpack.
So where does that leave us? Expect a smaller capacity (under 20 liters) and more of an emphasis on easy-access pockets and compartments. But small or less doesn’t mean worse.
There are tons of sling backpacks available today that make amazing everyday carry bags. Some have dedicated laptop and tablet pockets, others are fully waterproof and more than a few have really unique features that you’ll never know how you lived without.
Here are 19 of the best sling backpacks available today.
Best Sling Backpack for Laptop
Peak Design Everyday Sling
Made for both photography and everyday carry, the Peak Design Everyday Sling is a versatile sling backpack for those who want the convenience of a sling bag but still need the extra room for their daily essentials. We love that the 10-liter version is equipped with a 13-inch laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets while still feeling compact and streamlined thanks to its minimalist design. These features coupled with durable weatherproof materials really elevates the Peak Design Everyday Sling 2.0 to one the best sling backpacks for laptops.
The Peak Design Everyday Sling 2.0 comes in 3 different sizes: 3L, 6L and 10L for varying capacity of carry. We recommend the 10-liter size for anyone looking for a laptop sling backpack and the 6-liter version for just tablet carry.
Capacity: 10L
13” Laptop Sleeve
Doubles as an everyday carry and photo sling: can fit Mirrorless camera body, lenses and other gear.
Boundary Supply Arclite Sling Pack
The Boundary Supply Arclite Sling Pack offers the convenience of a sling bag with full side backpack functionality thanks to its large 15 liter capacity, padded laptop sleeve and numerous organizer pockets for smaller items. Plus, it just looks really cool and futuristic and we really like that.
If you are worried about getting caught in the rain then you’ll be pleased to learn that Boundary Supply has you covered. Each Arclite Sling Pack is equipped with waterproof YKK zippers and the exterior fabrics are DWR coated for water resistance. Anyone looking for a high-performing laptop sling backpack that is sure to turn some heads will love what the Boundary Supply Arclite Sling Pack has to offer.
Capacity: 15L
Fits 13” laptop in padded sleeve and up to a 15” laptop in main compartment.
Versatile: Left or right shoulder carry options
HEX Ranger XL Sling
HEX offers the ultimate laptop sling backpack for those who are looking to fill the gap between the convenience of a sling bag and the functionality of a backpack. The Ranger Sling XL has an impressive array of pockets for your laptop, camera and accessories plus its water-resistant ballistic nylon construction offers peace of mind that your gear will be protected.
The versatile main compartment can be used to store your DSLR and lenses thanks to the included padded dividers. Adjust or remove the dividers all together for a roomy main compartment that can accommodate packing for daily carry or a weekend trip. If you are looking for the best sling backpack for a laptop that offers excellent customization for whatever life throws your way then the HEX Ranger Sling XL is definitely worth a closer look.
Capacity: 15L
13” Padded laptop compartment
Clamshell zipper main compartment allows for multiple access points
Hardwearing water-resistant ballistic nylon construction
Alpaka Bravo Sling Max (Pro)
The Alpaka Bravo Sling Max was designed as stylish laptop bag while still keeping the convenience of a compact sling bag. With a roomy 10 liter capacity, this sling backpack allows you to carry both a laptop and tablet with plenty of pockets for organizing smaller essentials. Need to charge your device? Alpaka Bravo Sling Max includes an integrated external USB port for on-the-go charging.
We are big fans of Alpaka products for their emphasis on security. The Alpaka Bravo Sling Max features anti-theft lockable zippers to keep your tech safe. Slashproof fabric and an RFID blocking front compartment will also give you peace of mind when out and about. With all of these features and more we think the Alpaka Bravo Sling Max is a versatile laptop sling backpack for everything from travel to running weekend errands.
Capacity: 10L
Fits 14” Macbook Pro in laptop sleeve
12.9” iPad Pro fits in rear tablet compartment
Multiple compartments and smaller pockets to keep everything organized
Nomatic Navigator Lite Sling 10L
The Nomatic Navigator Lit Sling features a slim profile yet is wide enough to carry a 13” laptop in its interior tech sleeve. But don’t let its minimalist exterior fool you - this side backpack features a hidden side water bottle pocket, a fleece lined sunglasses pocket and a ton of internal pockets for keeping you organized.
Made for both travel and daily carry, the Nomatic Navigator Sling is a laptop sling bag that definitely lives up to the hype.
Capacity: 10L
Also available in smaller 6L & 1L sizes
13” Macbook Pro laptop sleeve
One of the few sling backpacks with an external water bottle pocket
Cotopaxi Chasqui 13L Sling
The Cotopaxi Chasqui Sling is the best side backpack for reliable everyday carry thanks to its large 13-liter capacity, internal laptop sleeve and weather resistant construction. For travel days - you’ll love the hidden back panel pocket for extra security and wrap-around zippers that makes it easy to grab-and-go from either side of the pack.
Available in a plenty of fun colors - the Cotopaxi Chasqui is a sling laptop backpack that definitely makes a statement without compromising on good design.
Capacity: 13L
Laptop sleeve in main compartment
Weather-resistant construction
Load-lifter on shoulder strap to dial in the perfect fit
Boundary Supply Stasis Sling
Boundary Supply offers a versatile sling laptop backpack for both daily tech carry and outdoor play. This is thanks its waterproof construction and thoughtful design that allows you to use the 13-inch laptop compartment as a hydration bladder pocket complete with a hose pass-through.
The unique main compartment buckle and strap design allows it expand and compress as needed to reduce bulk on light days. Waterproof materials, a ventilated EVA back panel and unique main compartment design makes the Boundary Supply Stasis one of the most comfortable and versatile laptop sling backpacks yet.
Capacity: 9L
13” Padded laptop compartment
Waterproof construction
Expandable front pocket with magnetic auto-locking buckle
VGOAL Laptop Sling Bag
VGOAL offers an affordable sling laptop backpack option with some pretty great features for the price. Along with padded laptop and tablet sleeves, the VGOAL Laptop Sling Bag includes plenty of features for daily and travel carry such as an internal water bottle pocket, hidden anti-theft pocket and an external USB port for charging on the go.
13.3” laptop + tablet sleeve
External USB charging port
Anti-theft rear zipper design
Best Tablet Sling Backpack
Mission Workshop The Spar Sling Pack
The Spar by Mission Workshop is a best in class sling backpack system that is more than meets the eye. What makes The Spar special is it’s carry options. The main compartment entry can be configured as a simple flap down or as a roll-top. You even have the option to purchase a backpack harness system to turn the sling bag into a daypack. Add in a micro-fleece lined tablet pocket, quick-access pockets and weatherproof materials and you have one of the best sling backpacks on the market today.
Capacity: 8L
10.5” microfleece-lined iPad sleeve
Can be converted to backpack with optional backpack harness
Made in USA
Timbuk2 Vapor Sling Bag
Designed for both style and functionality, the Timbuk2 Vapor is a lightweight sling backpack with some serious pockets for daily carry. In addition to it’s 7-liter main compartment, you’ll find a padded tablet pocket, a tricot-lined phone pocket and more padded pockets for small items like glasses and tech. This sling is recommended to anyone who values easy and quick access to their essentials without too much fuss.
Capacity: 7L
10.5” padded tablet sleeve
Feels nice: Made of a soft feel satin fabric
Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack
While the Pacsafe Vibe 325 sling pack may look minimalist in design it’s anything but simple. Pacsafe has done a great job with small anti-theft design features that make all of the difference when traveling or commuting.
Not only does Pacsafe include a 10” padded table sleeve and plenty of internal organizer pockets but the Vibe 325 is also built from the ground up for safety. Features include an anti-theft PopNLock security clip to allow you to lock the bag to a chair or table leg, an integrated zipper locking system and a eXomesh slashguard that prevents razors from penetrating the material. It’s these features and more that make the Pacsafe Vibe 325 one our favorite sling bags for travel and city carry.
Capacity: 10L
10” padded tablet sleeve
Anti-theft: Designed to keep your stuff safe
Alpaka Bravo X V2 Sling
Made for carrying tech on the move, the Alpaka Bravo X V2 is a tablet sling backpack that has some pretty awesome features found in few other slings. Along with a padded 11” tablet pocket you’ll find an external USB charging port and hidden SIM card holder.
What sets Alpaka bags apart from other brands is their focus on safety and security. The Bravo X Sling V2 uses waterproof zippers for every compartment along with a weatherproof fabric construction for maximum protection against the elements. Anti-theft features are also abundant - each bag is made with a Kevlar cutproof mid-layer to protect against slashes. Lockable zippers and an RFID blocking rear compartment also add to peace of mind.
Fits up to 11” iPad Pro
External USB charging port
Anti-theft: Anti-slash materials and lockable zippers
Made with weatherproof fabrics and waterproof zippers
tomtoc EDC Tablet Sling Bag
The Tomtoc EDC Tablet Sling Bag is perfect for anyone looking for a tablet sling backpack on a budget thanks to its sleek profile, eco-friendly recycled materials and variety of pockets for organizing daily essentials. As a tablet sling you’ll have a padded compartment to protect a tablet or small laptop up to 11 inches.
Capacity: 7L
11” padded tablet sleeve
Stylish minimalist design at an affordable price
Best Sling Bags and Side Backpacks
Knack Expandable Sling Bag
Featuring Knack’s patent-pending expandable design, the Knack Expandable Sling Bag goes from 6 liters of packing room to 10 liters when you need it. The anti-microbial lining, lockable zippers and water resistant materials makes this sling bag perfect for everything from gym days to travel. As for tech, the expandable main compartment can hold a laptop or tablet up to 12.3” and up to an 10.2” tablet inside the secondary compartment.
Capacity: 6L (10L expanded)
Expandable main compartment
Water resistant materials and zippers
Anti-microbial lining on the inside
Patagonia Atom Sling
The Patagonia Atom is a daily-driver sling backpack that’s built to handle everything from running quick errands to a leisure day outdoors thanks to its tough nylon construction and DWR water repellent coating. Each Patagonia Atom is equipped with plenty of pockets including a padded tablet sleeve, easy-access phone pocket and a comfortable single strap harness system designed for all-day wear.
Padded tablet sleeve
Comfort first: ergonomically designed single strap design
Water resistant
Chrome Industries Kadet Sling
The Chrome Kadet is a commuter messenger bag meets sling side backpack that combines the best of both worlds into a compact package. The roomy 9L capacity is perfect for lugging daily essentials plus a few extras such as a camera or light jacket.
Made with military grade materials - this side backpack doesn’t mess around. The 1050D Nylon construction is as tough as nails and the bag even features Chrome’s iconic aluminum buckle that makes a satisfying “click” whenever you use it.
Capacity: 9L
Includes a stowable stabilizing sternum strap
Buckle doubles as a bottle opener
Tough as nails military grade construction
Nomatic Messenger Bag
The Nomatic Messenger Bag is a special one because it includes all of the functionality of a good backpack with the convenience of side carry. Nomatic packs it with all sorts of great features such as a water bottle pocket, tons of organization pockets and even a full perimeter zipper that gives you complete access to the 15 liter main compartment. If you are looking for good a sling backpack don’t write off messenger bags altogether before you take a closer look at the Nomatic Messenger Bag. You may be surprised with what you find!
Capacity: 15L
Fully padded laptop compartment
Organized: Tons of inside pockets and organizers
5.11 LV10 Sling Pack 13L
The 5.11 LV10 is a discrete tactical sling that can be worn on your back or as a side backpack for instant access to your gear. A tablet compartment, water bottle pocket, and a whole 13 liters of carry capacity make this sling backpack a beast of a bag!
Capacity: 13L
Padded tablet sleeve
Internal MOLLE for attachments
Black Ember TKS Waterproof SlinG
The Black Ember TKS is a waterproof sling bag that acts as a lightweight tech kit when you are on the move. The inside is designed to hold all of your daily essentials like a phone, battery pack, cables, glasses, face mask and more!
It’s no secret that Black Ember makes some of our favorite waterproof backpacks and their newest TKS sling bag really keeps a lot of the design features that make their full-size backpacks so great. Waterproof YKK zippers and textiles protect your valuables from even the harshest weather conditions while a sleek minimalist design keeps you looking your best.
Capacity: 2.5L
An essentials-only portable tech kit
Waterproof zippers and materials keep valuables dry
Our Favorite Brands for Slings
Alpaka
Alpaka is a small brand with a large offering of sling, messenger and side backpacks for those who value great quality, creative designs and sustainability in the manufacturing process. Their sling bags are tech focused and offer great features such as padded laptop and tablet compartments, external usb ports for charging on the move and weather resistant materials to keep your expensive gear nice and dry.
Nomatic
Nomatic is known for their innovative travel backpacks and their slings definitly follow that same vein of great quality and impressive features. With a Nomatic sling bag you can make sure you are getting a water resistant bag with some serious pockets for organization. In fact, it’s pretty impressive just how many features they can pack in just one bag. Whether you are looking for a larger laptop side backpack or a small sling for just the essentials - Nomatic has you covered.
Pacsafe
Perfect for urban commuters and travelers alike, Pacsafe sling bags are the best bang for your buck when it comes to great style, reliable quality and the best anti-theft safety features. Pacsafe offfers a few different styles of slings and side backpacks that are worth taking a closer look at. Styles include anti-theft camera slings, everyday carry slings and smaller sling packs for just your essentials.
Dual laptop backpack? Best backpacks for two laptop carry
We explore our best multiple laptop backpack solutions and list our favorite backpacks that can accommodate two laptops.
If you are searching for a dual laptop backpack then you are not alone. Technicians, work commuters and frequent travelers may have more than one laptop to lug around and are in need of a 2 laptop backpack solution.
Ideally what we would want is a backpack with two separate padded laptop sleeves. With the exception of one dual laptop backpack by Hex - we found that most major brands aren’t chomping at the bits to design and release a true two laptop backpack. This forces us to compromise and get creative with how we carry two laptops.
In this article we are going to explore our best multiple laptop backpack solutions and list our favorite backpacks that can accommodate two laptops.
If you have found a true dual laptop backpack or if you are a brand releasing such a bag, please reach out to us and we will gladly add the backpack to this list.
Dual laptop backpack carry options
Finding a backpack with two separate laptop compartments feels a lot like unicorn hunting. We searched far and wide and truth be told we haven’t had much luck in finding a true dual pocket laptop backpack.
So what are our options?
1. Taking advantage of larger tablet pockets
We can take advantage of larger tablet pockets to accommodate a second laptop. Of course, this requires one of your laptops to be on the smaller and thinner side. It also requires the tablet pocket to be wider and longer than your average 10-inch tablet. We found that the Nomatic Backpack is a good example of such a backpack as it can comfortably fit a 13” Macbook Pro in the tablet sleeve in addition to a 15” laptop inside the laptop sleeve.
Both a 15.6” PC and 13” Macbook Pro fit inside the Nomatic Backpack
2. Sharing the laptop Compartment
You can take advantage of laptop backpacks with oversized laptop compartments that can accommodate two laptops. One example is the North Face Surge that features a large divided laptop compartment that can fit up to two 15” laptops.
The North Face Surge can fit two 15” laptops inside its large laptop compartment.
3. Using a separate padded laptop sleeve
The easiest way of turning a backpack into a two laptop backpack is by purchasing a separate padded laptop sleeve and storing your second device in the main compartment or in the laptop compartment if there is room to spare.
Unlike sharing a laptop pocket, a laptop sleeve allows your second laptop to have its own cushioned area to safeguard it from bumps and scratches. Padded laptop sleeves are fairly cheap and it’s easy to find a great quality one for your exact laptop size.
Using a padded laptop sleeve
Video Review
Best backpacks for two laptops
The backpack criteria is simple - find bags that can best accommodate two laptops. From roomy laptop compartments to innovative main compartment systems, here are our top picks.
Nomatic Backpack
Nomatic has set out to design the ultimate tech backpack with their flagship backpack and we think they succeeded. In addition to a full size 15” laptop sleeve the backpack also includes a padded tablet sleeve that can comfortably fit a 13” Macbook Pro. The entire tech panel where the sleeves are located has a false bottom that “floats” a few inches from the bottom of the bag to offer full padded protection of both devices. If you carry both a 15” and 13” laptop and want a premium backpack then Nomatic is a clear choice.
The North Face Surge
Although not technically a two laptop backpack, the North Face Surge features a massive laptop compartment with a divider that comfortably fits up to two 15” laptops. Along with a roomy laptop compartment, the Surge also has plenty of fleece lined pockets for tech and other items you want to keep safe. When it comes to North Face backpacks, the Surge is definitely one of our favorites for tech enthusiasts on the go who need a reliable and safe way to carry their gear.
If you would like an in-depth look at all the Surge has to offer then we recommend you check out our North Face Recon vs Surge comparison where we review all of the details.
Boundary Supply Prima System
The Boundary Supply Prima System is a modular backpack that allows for true dual laptop carry thanks to its removable Fieldspace sleeve and integrated 17-inch laptop compartment.
The laptop compartment inside the Prima features a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and a docking station for the removable Fieldspace sleeve which can hold a tablet or second laptop up to 13-inches. Both the laptop sleeve and Fieldspace can be accessed through a weather resistant zipper for quick access to both devices.
Other neat features on the Prima System include a removable camera case, magnetic auto-lock buckles, weather resistant YKK StormGuard zippers and a full-length front zipper for easy access to the main compartment.
Wandrd Prvke
Made for photographers, travelers and daily commuters alike, the WANDRD PRVKE offers an innovative take on style and function. Laptop storage in this backpack can be found in the back clamshell zipper entry against the back panel and its oversized padded tablet sleeve allows you to use the WANDRD PRVKE as a dual laptop bag when needed.
WANDRD states that you can fit up to a 16” Macbook Pro in the padded laptop sleeve and up to a 12.9” iPad Pro in the tablet sleeve. We found that the tablet sleeve can actually fit a 13” Macbook as shown in the photo. PC users beware - the largest PC laptop you’ll be able to store in the laptop sleeve is 14”.
Gulu Made Innovator Backpack
The GULU Made Innovator is a daily carry backpack that’s perfect for school, work or play. We recommend the Innovator as a two laptop backpack because of its large tech compartment that features a padded laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve and room to spare for a second laptop in the compartment itself. Utilizing this compartment for all of your tech allows you to keep your laptops separate from the main compartment for quick access when on the move.
The padded laptop and tablet pockets feature “drop-safe” false bottoms that float above the bottom of the bag for extra protection. For second laptop carry, we like to use a laptop sleeve for extra protection (see photo).
Each GULU Made product is handcrafted by artisans in Gulu, Uganda. Read more about the GULU Made story here.
Everki Atlas Laptop Backpack
Those looking for a reliable dual laptop backpack will love the ruggedness and performance based design of the Everki Atlas. The bag features a TSA friendly laptop compartment that has both a padded laptop and separate tablet sleeve for easy carry of multiple devices.
What makes the Everki Atlas so special is that the laptop sleeve is expandable thanks to its velcro strapping system. This allows you to carry a very large laptop or two thinner laptops in the same padded laptop pocket. Small enough laptops can also fit in the tablet sleeve while the main compartment is also large enough to also accommodate a second laptop in a padded sleeve.
Yorepek Travel Laptop Backpack
With a large capacity and tons of storage options, the Yorepek Travel Laptop backpack is a great choice for those on a budget who don’t want to compromise on functionality.
Although not technically a 2 laptop backpack, this bag can comfortably store two laptops in either the back laptop compartment or in the main compartment. The laptop compartment is TSA friendly and opens up clamshell style to access a single padded laptop compartment and a separate mesh sleeve that can hold a 2nd laptop or tablet.
Tom Bihn Brain Bag (with Cache)
The Brain Bag consists of two separate main compartments. What makes the Brain Bag such an ideal multiple laptop backpack is its Cache and Rail system. A Cache is a Tom Bihn padded laptop sleeve that you can purchase separately. Each Cache can be attached to “Rails” on the inside of either main compartment for an instant removable laptop compartment. The ability to add more than one Cache easily makes the Brain Bag the best backpack for multiple laptops.
Everki Versa Premium Laptop Backpack
Everki offers another great backpack option for those who need a tough high quality bag for work and travel with the Versa laptop backpack.
Unlike the bulkier Everki Atlas, the Versa offers a smaller form factor that makes a great dual laptop backpack for thinner laptops such as Chromebooks, newer Macbooks, and other similar sized laptops. Two thin laptops under 14 inches can fit in the laptop compartment thanks to its roomy padded pocket and separate tablet sleeve.
Best Business Casual Backpacks - When Smart Style Meets Urban Carry
Our top picks for the best business casual backpacks that look refined enough to wear to the office but have the all the functionality we need for daily carry.
With longer commutes and lugging your office to your home office becoming more frequent it’s no secret that finding a reliable way to carry your daily essentials is more important than ever.
Yet the truth is that modern work places are becoming more relaxed and business casual is quickly becoming the norm for many young professionals. But when the book bag is too immature and the briefcase too formal, a clean and modern business casual backpack is the clear answer.
Here are our top picks for the best business casual backpacks that look refined enough to wear to the office but have all of the functionality we have come to expect from a reliable backpack.
Best Business Casual Backpacks
Able Carry Daily Backpack
Able Carry has impressed us with a minimalist backpack that really packs a punch when it comes to functional design. The Daily Backpack focuses on intuitive pocket placement, high quality materials and ergonomic features for a near-perfect everyday carry solution.
The Able Carry Daily Backpack is available in lots of different colors - and at 20 liters it’s the perfect unisex business casual backpack for both men and women. What we love most about the Daily Backpack is it’s modern yet mature design. The sleek profile allows you to wear it to everything from morning commutes to client meetings in style.
Nomatic Backpack
The Nomatic Backpack takes what we love about the Nomatic Travel Pack and leaves its best features in a more compact size perfect for daily work carry. What we love most about the Nomatic Backpack is the insane amount of organizational pockets and compartments for every day items like laptop and tech accessories and smaller personal items. Few backpacks even come close to this level of organization.
Design-wise, the Nomatic Backpack is sleek enough to wear to the office thanks to its low-key minimalist design. And with the included side handles, you can wear the Nomatic as a business casual backpack and switch it over to briefcase-mode when it’s time to look more professional.
Knack Pack Expandable Backpack
With their flagship backpack, Knack offers a unisex business casual backpack that can also double as a travel bag for when you are off the clock. Details such as a roomy daily main compartment and hidden expandable travel compartment is what helps elevate the Knack Pack above other bags in its class.
The Knack Pack is available in a variety of colors and sizes so you are bound to find one that’s the perfect look and fit.
Check out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 hands-on comparison for a closer look at what Knack has to offer.
Day Owl Backpack
The Day Owl backpack has lots of small design details that make it the perfect business casual backpack. For example, the shoulder straps are designed to not dangle awkwardly, there's a special pocket inside for your water bottle to keep you looking sleek, and there are plenty of pockets to keep you organized all day long.
Not only does the Day Owl have a great design, but it's also made from high-quality and environmentally friendly materials like First-Mile waxed canvas. These materials are built to last and actually look better as they get older. The Day Owl comes in many different colors and two sizes, so it's perfect for anyone looking for the ideal backpack for work.
Timbuk2 Authority Backpack
If we could name just one business casual backpack worth looking into - it would be the Authority. The Timbuk2 Authority backpack is full of small design details that really makes you say “ok, this is pack means business” Examples includes compression straps that keep the bag looking slim and sleek on light carry days, amazing organization pockets for your daily essentials and a super comfy airmesh back panel and shoulder straps that come in the clutch on longer commuters.
Along with great features, the Timbuk2 Authority is also made out of sustainable recycled nylon and is water resistant for protection against light rain. Available in a few different colors - this unisex backpack really checks all the boxes for the perfect backpack for work.
Stubble & Co The The Backpack
Stubble & Co offers a stylish and streamlined business casual laptop backpack with The Backpack. This bag features a premium water resistant waxed canvas construction and natural full grain leather accents throughout that add a touch of sophistication to a timeless silhouette.
The Backpack is equipped with a roomy 21L main compartment for daily essentials that includes a 16-inch padded sleeve to keep your device safe. One thing we love about the The Backpack is it feels as good as it looks. This is thanks to its ergonomic shoulder straps and a breathable cushioned back panel that promotes all day comfort.
Targus Urban Essential Backpack
At under $50 the Targus Urban Essential backpack is a budget option for those who want a sleek business casual backpack design that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
Designed as a backpack for work, the Targus Urban Essential backpack offers a fully padded 15.6” laptop compartment and a main compartment filled with organizer and admin pockets for easy organization of daily essentials.
The Ridge Commuter Backpack
The Ridge Commuter is a thoughtfully designed backpack made for modern tech-focused carry. What the The Ridge Commuter does well is keep a slim and professional profile while maximizing the pockets and compartments throughout. Examples include a shock-resistant laptop compartment, plenty of exterior and interior pockets for daily essentials and even an exterior USB charging port for phone charging on the go.
If a great design isn’t enough - the Ridge Commuter was also built to survived the outdoors and still look fresh. Each bag features a waterproof shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers to keep your precious items nice and dry. Whether you are looking for a stylish business casual backpack for the office or rugged backpack for days on the beach - the Ridge Commuter has you covered!
Public Rec Pro Pack
The Public Rec Pro Pack offers a great balance between minimalist design and utilitarian carry. While the outside of the bag is understated enough to wear as an office-friendly business casual backpack, the inside is surprisingly organized.
The main compartment of the Public Rec Pro Pack features plenty of pockets and organizers for daily essentials like keys, pens and business papers while a separate padded laptop compartment keeps your tech safe while on the move. At 20 liters, the Pro Pack is ideal for daily carry but for those who need more room, Public Rec also offers the larger Pro Pack Plus that includes lots of extra features.
COTS Work Laptop Backpack
Who says that a good work backpack has to cost an arm and a leg? For under $50, COTS offers a stylish option with modern work carry in mind. A clean design makes this backpack office-friendly while the inside is packed with pockets for your laptop, tablet and more.
The COTS Work Laptop Backpack is thin and structured enough to not look bulky or sloppy when worn. This structured look makes it the perfect business casual backpack for who want to look professional without sacrificing functionality.
Maverick & Co Vista Waterproof Backpack
The Maverick & Co Vista offers a versatile commuter backpack that doesn’t compromise on quality or functionality thanks to its sleek design and impressive array of pockets. Dress this backpack up with a suit on important meeting days or dress it down for a more casual look - either way the Vista will keep you looking stylish and professional Monday through Friday.
We like the Maverick & Co Vista as a business casual backpack for its thoughtfully designed interior, clamshell main compartment for easy packing and waterproof design. This backpack is made with a waterproof high performance synthetic leather and coupled with a water resistant zippers and a special flap design that gives you maximum protection against the elements.
6 Brands like Tumi - Finding a Tumi backpack alternative
Looking for a good Tumi alternative? We have done the research to bring you the best backpacks like Tumi that are perfect for business, school or travel.
Tumi is a brand that is well known for their sophisticated luggage and business bags. The brand has gained popularity for their refined designs and quality craftsmanship. Each bag is built from the ground up for travel or business carry.
As with any popular bag brand, many people are curious about alternatives. Whether you are looking for something a little cheaper or maybe just different designs, we have put together a list of our favorite brands like Tumi that offer luggage and bags with similar features. We have also noted many backpack shoppers looking for a Tumi alternative so we did the research to find the best backpacks similar to Tumi.
Brands like Tumi
After a good amount of research we figured out that Tumi’s popularity was due in part to it’s sophisticated designs and great quality. The key to finding the best Tumi alternative starts with looking at what brands make similar bags while taking into account their craftsmanship, warranties and designs.
What we found is that a few brands really stood out as serious Tumi alternatives. Here we list our top brands like Tumi that rival Tumi in terms of design, quality and price. We also made sure to include budget brands as well that offer similar designs and great quality for the price.
Troubadour
1. Troubadour Pioneer Backpack (Troubadour)
2. Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack (Troubadour)
3. Troubadour Ridge Backpack (Troubadour)
Read about Troubadour
Troubadour is a relatively new brand that offers a wide collection of luxe bags for men and women that is sure to turn some heads. Their attention to detail, use of premium materials and sleek upscale designs are already hallmarks of the brand and we can’t wait to see what they come up with next.
The brand can be best described as smart casual with a streak of refined luxury. Most Troubadour backpacks and bags are waterproof and are packed with modern features for tech carry, sport and travel. And for those looking for heirloom quality bags - Troubadour offers a great selection of premium leather backpacks with their Generation collection.
If you are looking for bags like Tumi that don’t skimp on quality or modern design then we highly recommend you give Troubadour a closer look. Not many Tumi alternatives can match the style-forward designs and quality that the brand is known for but Troubadour checks enough boxes to be a fierce competitor.
Samsonite
Read about Samsonite
Samsonite is known for their travel bags, luggage and accessories that mix style and function. Those of you looking for brands like Tumi will love the variety of travel and business carry that Samonsite has to offer. Although Samsonite is known for their stylish luggage, their business bags easily rival brands like Tumi in design, performance and price.
If you are looking for a backpacks like Tumi than we suggest taking a look at Samsonite’s laptop backpacks for both men and women. They offer styles from urban casual to more sophisticated leather options. Many of their business backpacks and bags also come with a limited 3 year global warranty which is great for those of us with busy lifestyles who put our bags through a lot of wear.
Briggs & Riley
Read about Briggs & Riley
Briggs & Riley is a brand that offers luxury travel suitcases, bags and accessories with a focus on quality and stylish design. If you are looking for brands like Tumi that offer great options for traveling professionals, then we recommend to take a closer look at Briggs & Riley’s @work series of bags and backpacks. With a focus on business carry, these backpacks easily rival Tumi in style, design and quality.
Where Briggs & Riley really shine is in their warranty. Briggs & Riley offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty on their luggage and bags where as Tumi currently only offers a limited one year warranty.
Knomo London
1. Knomo Beaux Leather Laptop Backpack
2. Knomo Audley Leather Laptop Handbag
3. Knomo Cromwell Waterproof Backpack (Amazon)
Read about Knomo London
When it comes to women’s bags, you can’t talk about Tumi alternatives without mentioning Knomo London. Their wide range of sophisticated travel bags, totes and office backpacks are just the right blend of good value, great quality and must-have style. In fact, Knomo backpacks are some of our most highly recommended women’s business backpacks for this reason!
Along with women’s backpack Knomo London offers a wide variety of men’s and women’s travel bags - from totes to business backpacks and briefcases. Each collection is made to be complimentary in design so that you can travel in style.
Travelpro
Read about Travelpro
What’s special about Travelpro is that the company was started by an actual airline pilot named Bob Plath. He needed reliable luggage that could withstand the needs of a frequent flyer so he created his own luggage brand with reliability and convenience in mind. Today offers more than just quality luggage. The brand also offers business backpacks, executive briefcases and suitcases for both men and women.
One thing we have always liked about Travelpro is the large variety of collections. Whether you are a business traveler who needs a premium bag or airline personal who needs tough luggage Travelpro has something for everyone.
If you are specifically looking for bags like Tumi then we recommend you take a closer look at Travelpro’s Platinum Elite and Crew Executive Choice collections. Their Platinum Elite collection focuses on sophisticated luggage and bags for travelers who want to travel in style while the Crew Executive Choice is the Travelpro’s premium collection of business bags and backpacks for travel or everyday use.
Bric’s Milano
1. Brics Monza Urban Backpack (Bric’s Milano)
2. Bric’s Porsche Design Roadster Backpack (Bric’s Milano)
3. Brics Monza Medium Business Backpack (Bric’s Milano)
Read about Bric's
Specializing in Italian made luggage and travel bags, Bric’s Milano has everything for the elegant wanderer. If you are looking for brands like Tumi that keep the same commitment to quality and craftsmanship then you are going to want to give Bric’s a closer look. Those searching for cheaper Tumi alternatives may also want to check out the various luggage and backpack models that often go on sale on the official Bric’s website.
Bric’s has recently partnered up with Porsche to design some incredible luxury bags for work and travel. These leather backpacks feature refined modern designs, first-class craftmanship and are some of our favorite Bric’s models currently offered.
Best Backpacks Like Tumi
Whether you frequently travel for work or need a good backpack for daily commutes, we’ve found plenty of alternatives to Tumi laptop backpacks that you will love. These backpacks are high quality, professional and will help you carry your essentials in style no matter the destination.
Troubadour Apex
The Troubadour Apex is the ultimate work to weekend companion thanks to its sleek minimalist design that allows you to carry more while still keeping a professional silhouette for days at the office. The 25 liter interior is large enough for light travel or the gym and features like a fully padded laptop compartment and admin pockets give you the internal organization you need for daily essentials.
Troubadour comes highly recommended for anyone looking for brands like Tumi that offer high quality business travel backpack options. The Apex Backpack hits a sweet spot of refined and rugged - waterproof materials and a focus on ergonomic comfort gives the Apex an edge over other less stylish business travel backpacks in its class.
Waterproof fabric, lining and zippers
16-inch laptop compartment
Available in multiple colors
Samsonite NuRoad Backpack
Samsonite offers high end style and quality while ditching the high prices with their NuRoad collection of bags. The NuRoad backpack is made of great rugged materials with leather trim and a water-repellant coating keep your items nice and dry. Plus, the slim design is perfect for business travelers who need a professional look.
Also available in a women’s version
14” laptop compartment
Water-repellant design
Nomatic Navigator Backpack
Made for life on the move, the Nomatic Navigator series of bags and luggage is the perfect blend of functionality and upscale style. The 15L Navigator Backpack is perfect for everything from daily work carry to airline travel thanks to its clever organization and a main compartment that’s expandable up to 20L.
When it comes to Tumi alternatives, Nomatic is definitly a dark horse contender but we believe that the quality, style and functionality is there for those who want a professional and stylish look for both in and out of the office.
Hidden water pocket for a clean professional look
Dedicated padded laptop compartment
Expandable main compartment
Lo & Sons The Westholme
Lo & Sons is a brand known for their timeless bag designs the Westholme backpack is no exception. This unisex backpack is constructed with luxurious sheepskin leather and comes in two sizes for the perfect fit.
The inside of the Westholme backpack features Lo & Sons’ signature removable insert that allows you to customize the inside for work, travel or even the gym! These features and more is what makes the Lo & Sons Westholme one of our top Tumi alternatives.
Supple sheepskin leather exterior
Separate easy-access laptop compartment
Removable main compartment insert lets you customize the inside
Troubadour Ember
Compact yet rich with features, the Troubadour Ember is a Tumi laptop backpack alternative for work, weekends and travel. The Ember is made with lux gold zippers and highly water resistant exterior fabrics to keep your carry protected. Inside you’ll find an amazing array of pockets to organize your daily essentials. Travelers will also love the included trolley sleeve, easy-access pockets and a roomy 14-liter main compartment for easy packing.
Priced under most women’s Tumi backpacks, the Troubadour Ember is truly a gem in the rough. “Like Tumi but cheaper” doesn’t have to mean you have compromise on quality or style and the Troubadour Ember proves you can have it all.
Great internal organization for work and travel
Separate laptop compartment
Best-in-class ergonomic breathable back panel and shoulder straps
Knomo London Beauchamp
Knomo offers a modern and stylish backpack for travel, gym days and weekend adventures with their women’s Beauchamp backpack.
The Knomo Beauchamp features a stylish nylon exterior in a variety of contemporary colors while the leather detailing throughout gives the bag a touch of elegance. We love the Beauchamp for its roomy interior (perfect for travel) and clever zip pockets for keeping everything nice and organized.
Women’s work/travel/daily backpack
Padded sleeve for 14” laptop
Great pockets and organization
Samsonite Tectonic Sweetwater backpack
The Samsonite Tectonic Sweetwater Backpack is a rugged travel backpack for those on the move and one of our top picks for the best backpacks similar to Tumi. This Samsonite backpack includes a generous main compartment, tons of extra pockets for smaller items and a fully padded laptop sleeve to keep your expensive tech safe.
Perfect for anyone who is a fan of the Tumi Alpha line of backpacks, the Samsonite Tectonic Sweetwater makes a great contender thanks to it’s ultra-tough nylon construction and sleek business-friendly design. With this backpack, Samsonite really does strike a balance between functionality and style.
17” laptop compartment
USB port for on-the-go charging
Interior pockets for folders and documents
Includes trolley-sleeve for securing to rolling luggage
SOLO A/D Backpack
The Solo A/D is a versatile backpack that has everything you need in a daily work bag - laptop and tablet pockets, internal organizers and comfort-focused ergonomic shoulder straps all in a sleek office-appropriate design.
If you like the look of the Solo A/D backpack then we recommend the Solo Gravity Collection of bags to anyone looking for a much cheaper Tumi backpack alternative that is stylish yet versatile enough for travel and everyday carry. Each bag in the Gravity Collection was designed from the ground up for professional and travel carry.
Dimensions: 19.5'' x 15'' x 5.5’' inches
Sleek and professional profile
Padded laptop compartment (15.6 inches) and separate tablet sleeve.
Comfort designed shoulder straps and back panel
Everki Onyx Premium Business Executive Backpack
The Everki Onyx is a multifunctional backpack that’s perfect for work or travel thanks to its premium construction and professional style. This sleek backpack has the room you need for a busy day at the office and even sports a TSA-friendly laptop compartment for smooth sailing at the airport.
One of our favorite design features of the Everki Onyx is its intuitive pocket placement. There are dedicated pockets for just about everything. Pens, umbrellas, sunglasses, business files and folders - the Everki Onyx has you covered!
Roomy main compartment and lots of pockets for keeping you organized
Made of rugged ballistic nylon
TSA-friendly laptop compartment
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Here we go over what criteria was used to pick the brands and backpacks on our brands like Tumi list. Finding the best Tumi alternative starts with breaking down what make Tumi bags so special and then starting the hunt for brands with similar criteria.
Read more
Refined Designs for Grown Ups
Because of their association with school bags, backpacks often get a bad rep. One of the reasons brands like Tumi are so popular is because they make real functional bags for adults. This means no loud branding, no cheap materials and silhouettes that don’t look like you are starting the 9th grade. Tumi makes bags for adults looking for reliable travel bags and the best work backpacks. And these grown ups have busy work commutes, hectic travel schedules and a special carry needs for everyday life.
We made sure to focus on brands that address these needs by offering refined backpacks and bags designed for work and travel. Colors should be simple and understated while silhouettes are sophisticated and mature.
An Emphasis on Travel Features
Tumi is a luggage brand first and an emphasis on travel features goes into all of their designs as a result. Because of the best Tumi backpacks have features such as RFID blocking pockets, TSA-friendly laptop compartments and luggage attachment sleeves. With this in mind we sought out brands that reflect this attention to detail and addressed the needs of people with busy traveling schedules.
Quality and Warranty
Craftsmanship and build quality is what separates Tumi from similar travel brands. Their choice of refined materials such as leather, textured fabrics and high quality hardware allow their bags to be lifetime investments. We sought out brands that have similar built quality and emphasis on craftsmanship. Brands like Briggs & Riley and Hartmann Luggage not only rival Tumi in quality but they also robust warranties.
