We Tested the Best Urban Backpacks in 2024

If you are looking for an urban backpack than chances are you want something that’s a little bit different that what you would find at the local sporting goods store. 

This is why we decided to make a list of our favorite backpacks that focus on urban carry for those with busy lifestyles in the concrete jungle.

These backpacks aren’t for hiking or extended travel - instead we focus on urban EDC backpacks with must-have features for commuting around the city and sleek styles that are anything but boring.

What is an Urban Backpack?

An urban backpack is a type of backpack designed for everyday carry in the city and carry-on travel. Intended to keep you comfortable and your gear protected, these backpacks do best in crowded city streets, public transportation and airport terminals.

These backpacks are usually smaller than big travel bags and are designed to be practical for everyday use. Our ideal carrying capacity for an urban backpack is between 20 and 30 liters but you can follow our backpack size guide to find the best size for you. But in general, we kept our suggestions within the 20-30L range. When it comes to design, you can expect an urban backpack to look sleek and stylish with modern profiles and materials.

How We Picked and Tested

Everyday Organization

Keys, wallet, phone and tech. The perfect backpack for urban carry has enough pockets to keep you organized day in and day out. We focused on backpacks with small pockets for essentials, a water bottle holder and easy access to your most important stuff.

And no urban backpack would be complete without a padded laptop sleeve.

Shown above: Inside the Troubadour Pioneer backpack

High Quality

Our focus in this buying guide is on high quality backpacks that are rugged enough for daily use. With that said, we tried to avoid cheap bags.

Listen, there is nothing wrong with a cheapo bag from Amazon (some of them aren't bad). But we would rather concentrate on great quality backpacks made from tough materials that won't fall apart in a few months. Ballistic nylon, cotton canvas and waterproof fabrics are more our style.

Water Resistance

Living in the city means dealing with unpredictable weather, which is why having a water-resistant backpack is important. Whether you are looking for a waterproof backpack for college or a bag to keep you dry during commuters - a water-resistant backpack will give you the peace of mind you need. We tried to focus on the best city backpacks made with waterproof fabrics and rainproof zippers.

Show above: The water resistant Able Carry Daily Plus backpack

Comfortable Commuting

Having a comfortable backpack is essential for those commuting to work, school, or running errands in the city. We looked for well-padded backpack straps and breathable back panels for comfort during daily commutes. Larger backpacks should also have a sternum strap to help with weight distribution of heavy loads.

Best Urban Backpacks and Daypacks

The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack

When we think of "urban backpacks" THIS is the bag that comes to mind. Made with a tough weatherproof construction, the Ridge Commuter is more than meets the eye. Inside you find a main compartment that is lined with almost a dozen pockets for organizing your everyday carry. Some great ones include a power bank pocket and a tiny secret pocket for an Apple Airtag. Add in a shock-resistant laptop compartment and and you have the best best urban EDC backpack for busy days in the city.

Check out our Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack review for more details

• Read more about the Ridge Commuter

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 20L

  • Materials: 900D Nylon, YKK Aquaguard Zippers

  • 15" laptop compartment

  Features that make the Commuter a great urban daypack

  • Weatherproof construction (highly water resistant exterior + YKK Aquaguard zippers)

  • Secret pocket for bluetooth tracker (Apple Airtag or Tile device)

  • Tons of pockets for EDC (everyday carry)

  An Urban Laptop Backpack for Tech Carry

  The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof backpack is a great choice for city life, especially on rainy days, thanks to it's water-resistant construction. The bag is made with water-resistant nylon. And each compartment is protected with water-resistant YKK Aquaguard zippers.

  The Commuter is a slim 20L backpack, which helps keep down the bulk. Overall, the Ridge Commuter backpack is perfect for navigating crowded places like buses and trains in the city. It keeps your belongings safe, organized, and protected, making it a great choice for everyday urban life.

  If you want the backpack with the most pockets, then the Ridge Commuter backpack is the one for you. Unlike larger backpacks, the focus here is on organization of daily essentials. Inside there are pockets for pens, notebooks, cables, and other small items. The outside gives you even more pockets, including a hidden security pocket for valuables. The shock-proof 15” laptop compartment can be found against the back panel. This laptop compartment is lined with cushioned felt material to protect against bumps and drops.

The North Face Recon

The North Face has always offered solid backpacks and the Recon is no exception. One underrated design feature on the Recon is its great organization. There are a ton of smaller compartments for everything from pens, water bottles, tech accessories and chargers to keep you both organized and sane on busy days.

The North Face Recon is available in both men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit. We explore the details in our North Face Recon review.

• Read more about The North Face Recon

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 30L

  • Materials: Nylon ripstop, polyester

  • Weight: 2lbs 9oz

  • Padded laptop sleeve: up to 15" device

  Features that make the Recon a great urban backpack

  • 15” laptop compartment and separate tablet sleeve

  • Lots of smaller pockets for EDC

  • Large 30-liter main compartment that’s perfect for running errands, work, school or the gym.

  One Backpack for Work and Play

  The North Face Recon is a spacious city backpack with a 30-liter main compartment, making it larger than most small urban daypacks. This means it's perfect for various purposes like work, school, going to the gym, or even traveling.

  The North Face Recon is loved by many as a school book bag because it has a roomy main compartment, a separate laptop sleeve, and useful organizer pockets. But it's not just for school – it's also a great backpack for daily use in the city. The sleek design and comfortable features make it enjoyable to use during commutes.

  The North Face Recon is incredibly versatile. You can use it to carry your gym gear, take it on weekend trips, or even use it to store camera equipment. It has a special compartment for organizing your gadgets and everyday essentials. You can even attach larger items like a camera tripod or a picnic blanket using the bottom utility straps. The possibilities are endless with this backpack!

Able Carry Daily Plus

The Able Carry Daily Plus is one of the best laptop backpacks we tested for urban wear in the city. It's highly water resistant, has great pockets and is wrapped in a sleek design. With a 21L capacity, it provides enough space for organizing your essentials, making it perfect for everyday use. The clean and minimalist design adds a touch of style, seamlessly allowing you to go from work to play.

For more details, check out our Able Carry Daily Plus backpack review.

• Read more about the Daily Plus

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 21L

  • Materials: Waterproof X-Pac, YKK Aquaguard Zippers

  • Weight: 2.6lbs

  • 16" laptop sleeve + 11" tablet sleeve

  What makes the Daily Backpack a great urban backpack

  • High quality water resistant materials

  • Hidden water bottle pocket

  • Special “A-Frame” webbing allows backpack to keep its shape and keeps you looking sharp

  • Lots of exterior pockets and even more internal pockets

  Built for Urban Carry

  The Able Carry Daily Plus backpack is a perfect choice for wearing in the city because it has great features and a simple design. The 21 liter size is perfect for carrying daily essentials. We found that we could fit items like a few notebooks, a jacket and our tech with some room to spare.

  This backpack is also one of the most comfortable backpacks we have tested. The backpack straps are very cushioned. And the back panel features supportive foam panels for breathability and support.

  The Daily Plus backpack is slightly bigger than Able Carry's Daily Backpack. It has more pockets, better organization but with the same classic design. If choosing between the two, go with the Daily Plus.

Chrome Barrage Cargo

The Chrome Barrage Cargo is one of the toughest commuter backpacks on the market. It's waterproof, so your stuff stays dry even in the worst weather. Our favorite feature is the cargo net on the outside. It gives you extra storage for stuff like bike helmet, shoes, or bags from unexpected shopping trips. The roll top also allows you to use the Barrage Cargo as an expandable backpack to add more room inside by unrolling the top.

We have to be honest and say that this isn't an urban laptop backpack. In fact, there isn't even a padded laptop sleeve. Instead this is a backpack for those who need a tough-as-nails waterproof bag over a backpack with a million pockets. It's a commuter bag for those who value simplicity over marketing gimmicks.

For a closer look, check out our Chrome Barrage Cargo review.

• Read more about the Chrome Barrage Cargo

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 18L

  • Materials: 1050D Nylon and waterproof TPE tarp

  • Weight: 3lbs

  • Padded laptop sleeve: None

  Features that make the Barrage Cargo a great urban backpack

  • Welded waterproof tarp liner makes the main compartment completely waterproof

  • Cargo net allows for extra storage of bulky items

  • Rolltop main compartment expands from 18-22 liters as needed

  • Chrome seatbelt chest strap (it's fun to use!)

  Built for the Daily Grind

  Although we made sure to feature the best urban laptop backpacks, we had to make the exception with the Chrome Barrage Cargo. The Chrome Barrage Cargo does not have a padded laptop sleeve, instead it's just one big waterproof bucket for your stuff. No laptop compartment. No million pockets for school supplies. Just a good reliable roll top backpack.

  But we had to include the Barrage Cargo for its construction. It's tough and reliable.

  The outer shell of the Barrage Cargo is made of rugged 1050D nylon, and the inside of the main compartment is lined with a heavy-weight waterproof tarp. The shoulder straps can be adjusted with metal buckles, not plastic. Add in Chrome's signature seat-belt sternum strap buckle and better control over weight distribution with heavy loads. If this backpack ever does fall apart (doubt), Chrome has you covered with a lifetime guarantee.

Troubadour Pioneer Backpack

Troubadour does two thing very well: water resistance and comfort. They also have amazing pockets. Ok, so it does three things very well.

The Troubadour Pioneer can be best described as a jack of all trades. It's a sleek backpack for business days. A gym bag when you need it thanks to its bottom shoe compartment. And most of all, the highly water resistant urban backpack you've been looking for.

We can't express how nice Troubadour bags feel in person. There is something about the vegan leather trim and soft lining in the pockets that give it a certain je ne sais quoi. We wrote a Troubadour Pioneer review if you want a closer look at the details.

• Read more about the Troubadour Pioneer

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 23.5L

  • Materials: Recycled polyester, vegan leather trim

  • Weight: 2.4lbs

  • Padded laptop sleeve: Up to 16" laptop

  Features that make the Pioneer a great urban daypack

  • 16” laptop sleeve

  • Very water resistant construction

  • Lots of small pockets inside for organization

  • Side pockets for water bottles and other essentials

  • Bottom compartment for shoes or extra clothing

  Sleek & Stylish

  It would be impossible to list all of the different features the Troubadour Pioneer offers in a short blurb. So you will have to take our word for it that this backpack can do it all.

  First of all, this backpack compact at only 23.5 liters that doesn't give you the bulky profile of bigger backpacks. This is a huge plus if you find yourself navigating crowded areas in the city. But what it lacks in size it makes up in organization. If you need a backpack with a spot for everything, then this is the backpack for you. There are plenty internal pockets for every thing from a phone to tech chargers. The outside of the bag also gives you two water bottle holders and extra pockets for small items like a phone or wallet. Pair these features with waterproof zippers and you have the perfect urban daypack.

DB THE RAMVERK Backpack

The Db Ramverk is a clamshell backpack designed for urban creatives. What sets the Ramverk apart is its special lay-flat main compartment, which makes it easy to pack large items clothes or a camera cube. Inside, there are also mesh pockets to help you stay organized with small items.

As a commuter bag, the Db Ramverk is incredibly stylish. It has soft adjustable shoulder straps for all-day comfort. Additionally, the bag is made of PU leather with metal hardware, which gives it a handsome appearance that matches well with life in the city.

We tested the Db Ramverk 21L and found it to be a great size for daily carry. But it also comes in a larger 26L and 26L Pro for even more storage. Check the orange Db link above for options.

• Read more about the Db Ramverk

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 21L (also available in 26L)

  • Materials: Water resistant 600D polyester and PU leather

  • 15" laptop compartment

  Features that make the Ramverk a great urban daypack

  • Clamshell backpack easy packing and unpacking

  • PU leather exterior, metal buckles and slim profile gives this backpack an upscale look

  • Lightweight thanks to Db’s rib cage construction

  • Compression straps on the front for storing extra items like a jacket

  • Laptop sleeve in separate compartment for easy access

  A Lightweight Urban Laptop Daypack

  The Db Ramverk features a unique design that can be best described as part lux designer bag and part tactical city backpack. On one hand, you have a PU leather exterior and aluminum metal hardware which gives it high end feel. But then there are sports elements like exterior straps and hooks for Db modular hook-up system.

  As an urban laptop backpack, Db includes a separate padded laptop compartment that was designed to fit a up to a 15” Macbook Pro. Chargers, cables and tech accessories can all be stored inside the numerous mesh pockets that line the main compartment.

  One feature that Db doesn’t get enough credit for is their innovative rib cage construction that allows for a lightweight and slim backpack without compromising on internal packing room. Instead of traditional foam padding, Db uses ABS “ribs” that are not only much lighter than traditional panels but also provides great protection to the inside of the bag.

tomtoc TechPack-T73 X-Pac Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

A larger backpack for those who need to carry more. The tomtoc TechPack-T73 can be divided into two compartments: the tech compartment and the massive 30-liter main compartment opens nice and wide for easy packing of bulky items. Inside the tech compartment you'll find a 16-inch laptop sleeve and separate table sleeve.

There is nothing worse than trying to find small items inside a dark pack. tomtoc solves this by lining the inside with a bright orange fabric so that you can quickly spot your items. Combine these clever little details with super comfortable adjustable shoulder straps and you have one of the best city backpacks on the market today.

• Read more about the tomtoc TechPack-T73

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 30L

  • Materials: X-Pac, 1680D Nylon

  • Padded sleeves fit 16" Macbook and 12.9" tablet

  • Almost a dozen pockets for organization

  Features that make the TechPack-T73 a great city backpack

  • Large open main compartment for bulky items

  • Lots of pockets for organization

  • Thick padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap

  • Tech compartment with padded laptop and tablet sleeves

  An Innovative Urban Daypack

  What sets the tomtoc TechPack-T73 apart from other urban daypacks is its great pocket placement and emphasis on comfort. This combination of features makes it one of the best backpacks for city life.

  We really like the variety of external pockets on this backpack. The front panel is made from X-pac, a waterproof fabric, and the front pockets are equipped with water resistant zippers for a one-two combo of protection from rain. These front pockets make it super easy to stash away items when you are on the move. Other external pockets include a water bottle holder and a zippered side pocket for protecting small items like earbuds, a wallet or phone. Everywhere you look, the tomtoc TechPack-T73 has a pocket or compartment.

  As for comfort, we are very impressed with the adjustable shoulder straps on the tomtoc TechPack-T73. They are thick and wide so that you can comfortably carry heavy loads. tomtoc has really upped their game for this backpack and we are pleased with the results!

Day Owl Backpack

The Day Owl backpack is an excellent choice for urban wear in the city due to its impressive features and waxed canvas construction. With a minimalist exterior, it offers a sleek and stylish look that complements any outfit. However, its true value lies in its functionality and practicality. The backpack provides a spacious 21 liters of storage capacity with carefully designed exterior pockets to keep your stuff organized. It includes a 16" padded laptop pocket, ensuring the safety of your tech during your urban adventures.

• Read more about the Day Owl Backpack

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 21L

  • Materials: Recycled waxed cotton canvas

  • Weight: 2.4lbs

  • 16" laptop sleeve

  Features that make the Day Owl a great urban backpack:

  • High quality canvas construction that looks better as it ages

  • Slim profile and hidden pockets are great for crowded spaces

  • Secret spill-resistant water bottle pocket

  An eco-friendly daily commuter backpack

  The Day Owl was designed with sustainability in mind. Their waxed canvas, lining and trim is akk made from recycled materials. Even their YKK zippers are from a sustainable source. But what not many people know about Day Owl is that all of their bags are repairable. The brand understands that the most sustainable impact is in offering a product that lasts.

  What we like best about the Day Owl backpack is the wide variety of semi-hidden exterior pockets. Examples include a side pocket for your phone, a small pocket on the top for sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your water bottle. This pockets give you a clean look on business days but still allows for great organization. For your tech, Day Owl offers a seperate compartment for a 16" laptop in the back.

Troubadour Apex Backpack

The Trouabour Apex has long been one of our favorite men's backpacks for work but it has grown on us as an urban daypack for laptop carry. The unique design is so easy to dress up for a work meeting or dress down to meet with friends. Either way, you'll look your best.

Along with a ton of pockets inside the main compartment, the Apex gifts you with a separate compartment for easy access to your laptop and tech. The backpack also has lots of exterior pockets, which are really handy for keeping your things organized. And don't worry about rainy days - this backpack is designed to be highly water-resistant, so your belongings will stay dry even in bad weather.

• Read more about the Troubadour Apex

  Specs:

  • Capacity: 25L

  • Weight: 2.2lbs

  • Materials: Water resistant recycled polyester, vegan leather

  • 17" laptop compartment

  Features that make the Apex a great city backpack

  • Sleek minimalist design

  • Highly water resistant

  • Lots of pockets for organization (both inside and out for quick access)

  • Massive 17" laptop compartment

  Minimalist style with zero compromise

  The Troubadour Apex backpack is one of our favorite men’s work backpacks and it’s easy to why. The minimalist design and slim profile makes it office-appropriate and the various carry features are great for items like tech, paperwork and smaller personal items.

  As an urban daypack, the Troubadour Apex packs a punch with a 25 liter main compartment that gives you enough room for everything from daily errands to and weekend travel. 

  What we love most about the Apex is its great pocket placement. Along with a few very sneaky outer pockets, the Apex is also gives you a padded compartment for a 16-inch laptop and loads of smaller pockets inside the main compartment to keep you organized.

  All of these features are encased in a lightweight waterproof fabric with waterproof zippers and internal lining for extra protection. The ergonomically shaped padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel also make for comfortable carry day in and day out.

  Troubadour is a brand out of the UK but they offer worldwide shipping. They even offer free shipping to the United States for orders over $100.

BLACK EMBER SHADOW

A minimalist style with waterproof zippers, the Black Ember Shadow is one of the best urban daypacks available right now. The quick access front pocket allows you to charge your phone on the go while the internal organization saves a spot for your laptop, tablet and accessories thanks to the Shadow’s built-in tech kit.

The Black Ember Shadow is available in 22L and 26L sizes for the perfect fit.

• Read more about the Black Ember Shadow

  Features that make the Shadow a great urban daypack

  • Waterproof construction (waterproof zippers + textiles)

  • Lay-flat clamshell main compartment for easy organization

  • Tech-focused pockets for EDC (everyday carry)

  A Waterproof Urban Daypack

  Keeping your expensive tech safe from life’s mishaps is a big deal and Black Ember has you covered on a couple of fronts. First, their padded laptop and tablet compartments are suspended for protection from bumps and drops. Second, this backpack is as waterproof as backpacks come.

  The Shadow is made from HTX - Black Ember’s own high performance waterproof fabric. This fabric repels water away from the bag and prevents moisture from seeping in. Black Ember also sticks with best-in-class YKK Aquaguard zippers and uses Bond-Stitch construction to seal the seams.

  Available in 22L and 26L versions, the Black Ember Shadow is best suited as an urban daypack for those who need a compact bag without too much bulk. The slim profile and minimalist exterior makes it a great choice for city work commuting.

Boundary Supply Errant Pack

Packed with over a dozen modular features, the Boundary Supply Errant is a modular backpack for urban exploration that can be dialed in as needed to fit to your most important items. This is possible with the various magnetic docks for quick attachment of accessories.

A clamshell main compartment gives you full access to the pockets inside while a hidden bottom shoe compartment transforms the Errant into a gym or travel bag in seconds. Other great features include the ability to add modular camera inserts and even a second laptop sleeve.

• Read more about the Errant Pack

  Features that make the Errant Pack a great urban backpack

  • Dual access main compartment (top-loading or lay-flat)

  • Zippered bottom compartment for shoes, laundry or wet items

  • Comfort - molded foam back panel keeps you cool

  • Modular accessories available for photography, work and extra storage

  An Urban Exploration Backpack with Modular Features

  Although the Boundary Supply Errant can be used with a variety of modular accessories, the standalone Errant backpack is a great option for anyone who values daily organization. This is thanks to its various pockets and compartments that line the inside and outside of the bag.

  A sample of pockets include a 15” laptop sleeve with auto-locking magnetic closure, a bottom shoes/laundry compartment, a soft-lined external glasses pocket and a hidden RFID pocket for a passport or wallet. These features and more are why the Boundary Supply Errant Pack makes the best urban exploration backpack for commuters, photographers and travelers alike.

Our Top 5 Urban Backpack Brands

After reviewing and testing hundreds of bags, we have settled on a few of our favorite urban backpack brands. These brands consistently offer a great quality and really unique designs that cater to urban carry. From rainy days in London to riding the metro in NYC - these brands have you covered.

1. Able Carry

   Able Carry is a brand that specializes in creating backpacks designed for urban life. Based in Hong Kong, Able Carry offers worldwide shipping with a lifetime warranty, allowing customers from all around the globe to enjoy their products. With a strong emphasis on comfort, organization, and the use of high-quality materials, Able Carry ensures that their backpacks are reliable companions for your daily adventures.

2. Troubadour

   Troubadour offers thoughtfully designed bags to seamlessly fit into stylish urban lifestyles. With an emphasis on upscale, sleek, and fashionable designs, Troubadour backpacks elevate your look while providing functionality. A standout feature of Troubadour backpacks is their water-resistant designs, ensuring your belongings stay dry even in unpredictable weather. The brand also prides itself on innovative designs that push the boundaries of traditional backpacks, incorporating unique features and thoughtful details.

3. Timbuk2

   Timbuk2 is a brand that dedicated to crafting city backpacks designed for urban commuters and nomads. Since its founding in 1989, the brand has been dedicated to creating commuter backpacks that cater to the needs of city dwellers. What sets Timbuk2 apart is their commitment to sustainability and durability. Their bags come with a lifetime warranty and are repairable, and they have a dedicated repair team in San Francisco to fix any wear and tear, ensuring your bag stays functional and reliable for years to come. With Timbuk2, you can invest in a reliable and long-lasting urban companion for your everyday adventures.

4. Chrome Industries

   Chrome Industries offers some of the toughest commuter bags on the market. Made with durable materials, Chrome bags are built to withstand the challenges of city commuting and everyday use. With over 25 years of experience, Chrome Industries has become a trusted name in the industry, delivering functional and reliable bags for urban wear. Each Chrome bag comes with a lifetime warranty and you can usually grab free shipping over $100 in the United States.

5. Black Ember

   Black Ember is a brand that specializes in creating backpacks specifically tailored for urban living. Their designs are meticulously crafted to cater to the needs of city dwellers, combining functionality and style seamlessly. What sets Black Ember apart is their commitment to unique designs waterproof construction. Each backpack is a testament to their attention to detail and dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional designs.

   While Black Ember backpacks may come with a higher price tag, they represent a premium investment in quality, durability, and style. These backpacks are built to withstand the rigors of urban life and make a statement with their exceptional craftsmanship.

More Helpful Resources

• Guide to Waterproof Fabrics (Camotrek)

• Rolltop vs Zipper Backpack - Visual Guide

• How Big is a 30 Liter Backpack - Visual Guide

• How Big is a 20 Liter Backpack? - Visual Guide

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11 Best Grad School Backpacks in 2024 - Tested for Real Graduate Students

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.

• Read more

  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!

• Read more

  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.

• Read more

  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.

• Read more

  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

Buy on Amazon

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.

• Read more

  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!

• Read more

  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

Buy on Amazon

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

• What do graduate students carry?

  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.

• What size backpack do I need for grad school?

  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

• Materials

  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!

• Structure

  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.

• Colors

  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.

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Roll Top vs Zipper Backpack - Pros and Cons Visual Guide

What's the difference between a rolltop backpack and a zipper backpack? Is one style better than the other?

Among the different types of backpacks, two of the most common designs are roll-top backpacks and zipper backpacks.

Roll top backpacks are known for their waterproof construction and unique expandable main compartments, making them a popular choice for outdoor adventures. But they have also found their way into everyday carry thanks to some brands adding extra features such as laptop sleeves and extra pockets.

On the other hand, zipper backpacks are often the go-to bag design for school, work and travel thanks to their easy access to compartments and endless styles to choose from.

Both roll top backpacks and zipper backpacks have their own pros and cons, and in this visual guide we will delve deeper into the differences, so that you can make a better decision when choosing between the two.

Roll Top Backpacks: Pros and Cons

Roll top backpacks are usually designed as one large main compartment. Think of these bags as big buckets with large top openings. Although this isn't true of all rolltop packs, these bags will often have less exterior pockets and overall compartments due to their straightforward "bucket" design.

What is a roll top closure?

Rolltop backpacks are designed with extra fabric on the top that allows you to "roll down" in order to close the main compartment. Most roll top packs include a buckle and strap to hold down the rolled fabric and keep it in place. This design is called a roll top closure.

Shown: WANDRD PRVKE Backpack with expandable roll top closure

Roll Top Pro #1: Expandable Storage

Did you know that a roll top backpack is expandable by design?

A big advantage of a roll top closure is that you can control the size of the main compartment. Simply, roll down the backpack for a more compact bag and roll up the fabric when you need more packing room. Simply roll down the backpack for a more compact bag and roll up the fabric when you need more packing room. This ability to control the size of the backpack is what gives a roll-top backpack its edge when compared to zipper backpacks with fixed capacities.

Another alternative is to keep the roll-top completely open to haul oversized gear. Since roll-top bags are designed like big buckets, this makes it very easy to haul large items on your back securely. This design feature comes in handy for outdoor activities where oversized items are common.

Shown: Got Bag Rolltop Backpack with roll-top closed to create waterproof seal

Roll Top Pro #2: Better Waterproof Protection

A roll top closure is often the go-to design for many waterproof backpacks, and it's easy to see why. The folding down of the fabric creates a natural waterproof barrier, and when paired with waterproof fabric, you get a waterproof seal with no way for moisture to sneak in. You'll often see roll top designs in dry bags made for outdoor adventures for this reason.

Unlike waterproof zippers that need to be maintained to keep functional, the mechanical nature of a roll top makes it much more reliable since there is less chances for failure. So if you want a reliable waterproof backpack with less headaches, stick with a roll top made with waterproof materials.

Shown: Inside a rolltop backpack

Possible Con: Fewer Pockets

The most basic roll top backpacks are comprised of a main compartment and not much else. When compared to a zipper backpack, you can expect less access points to your stuff and fewer pockets overall. This is most clear with roll top laptop backpacks that feature a laptop sleeve inside the main compartment instead of in a separate exterior laptop compartment. Although, some brands are getting better with this and have started including exterior zippers for quick access to tech or attaching side pockets for water bottles.

Other Common Roll Top Features

Since many rolltop packs are designed for outdoor use in mind, its common to find features like attachment points and external straps for gear. Comfort wise, it's common to see a sternum strap, hip belt and adjustable shoulder straps for a more comfortable fit.

These features aren't exclusive to roll tops but they are more common in outdoor backpacks.

Zipper Backpacks: Pros and Cons

Unlike roll tops and flap backpacks, a zipper backpack is any backpack that uses a zipper for its closure and is often the most common type of backpack you'll encounter for daily carry.

Because zipper backpacks vary so much in design, you have more options in terms of style and ability. Need an anti-theft backpack? There are backpacks with lockable zippers. What about a backpack that can open like a suitcase? Plenty of travel backpacks with zippers allow you to do just that.

Shown: The North Face Recon backpack - Quick access to laptop and other essentials

Zipper Pro #1: QuickER Access

A major advantage that zipper backpacks have over roll tops is how much easier it is to access the things inside! Zippers are quick and easy to use, while a roll top enclosure takes time to unbuckle the clasp and then unroll the top to gain the same access.

A great example of quick access is with laptop and tech carry. While many rolltop backpacks have a laptop pocket inside the main compartment, it is usually easier to access with a zipper backpack since there is no unfolding of fabric to handle before reaching the laptop. Many zipper backpacks also have laptop compartments that can be accessed from the outside of the bag for even quicker access.

Shown: Matein Laptop Backpack with 3 zipper compartments

Zipper Pro #2: More Pockets

Remember how we described rolltop packs as big buckets? Zipper backpacks have a much larger variety in their design, and as a result, they generally include more pockets on the inside and outside of the bag.

Zipper backpacks also often have many more external pockets than roll top backpacks. This includes zipper pockets on the outside for easy access to smaller items, extra top pockets where a roll top fabric usually would be, as well as separate zipper compartments for a laptop and other tech.

If having lots of pockets is important to you, then going with a zipper backpack will be your best bet!

Shown: Zippers on the North Face Recon backpack are not water resistant

Possible Con: Less water resistant

Whereas a roll top backpack has water resistance built into its design, a backpack with a zipper is prone to be less water-resistant. Unfortunately, most zippers are not water-resistant and can even act as weak points for water to leak through.

If you would like better protection with a zipper backpack, you can always go with a backpack with a water-resistant zipper or a dry bag with waterproof zippers. Backpacks with these special zippers are often more expensive than backpacks with regular zippers but may be well worth it for travelers and daily commuters who encounter rain often.

Conclusion: Roll Top Backpacks vs Zipper Backpacks

The differences between roll top and zipper backpacks are pretty clear once you look at them side by side.

In general, roll top backpacks are great for outdoor activities where bad weather is an issue or for those who want to control the size of their bags depending on what they carry that they. Their simple construction also make them more durable in the long run, since are less zippers and hardware that could fail over time.

On the other hand, a backpack with a zipper is a better choice for daily carry where organization and easy access matter. This is why so many work and school backpacks are made with zippers instead of roll top closures - ease of use. You also have many more design options to choose from, ranging from larger carry-on bags for travel to small backpacks for just the essentials.

Roll Top Backpacks

• Better waterproof protection

• Expandable main compartment

• Less pockets and compartments

• Minimalist style

• Better for outdoor activities where weather is an issue

Zipper Backpacks

• Easier to grab items inside

• More pockets and compartments

• More designs to choose from

• Better for school, work and daily laptop carry

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The North Face Borealis vs Jester - What’s the Difference?

The North Face Borealis or Jester? Which one is the better buy? These backpacks are two popular choices if you are looking for a reliable backpack for school, travel or even outdoor activities and in this updated Borealis vs Jester backpack comparison we dive deep and explore the differences.

Note: this comparison is of the 2023/2024 versions of both the North Face Borealis and Jester. The North Face is known for updating their backpack designs every so often and specific details may be different if you wish to compare older versions of either backpack.

Video Review

Quick Specs

	The North Face Borealis	The North Face Jester
Volume	28 Liters (Mens) 28 Liters (Womens)	27 Liters (Mens) 22 Liters (Womens)
Material	Nylon Ripstop	Recycled Polyester
Laptop Storage	Up to 15" laptop	Mens: Up to 15" Womens: Up to 14"
Tablet Pocket	Yes	No
Fleece Lined Pocket	Yes	No
Compression Straps	Yes	No
Sternum Strap	Yes	Yes
Waist Belt	Yes	No
Price	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon

The North Face Backpacks: Mens vs Womens

For this hands-on comparison we used the womens Borealis and Jester backpacks. If you are looking to purchase a men’s North Face backpack, please note that most of this comparison will still apply.

The main differences between the men’s and women’s versions are as follows:

• Men’s North Face backpacks have larger back panels and wider shoulder straps to accommodate broader shoulders and longer torsos. This is the biggest difference. 

• The men’s version of the North Face Borealis has a 28-liter carrying capacity, while the women’s version is 27 liters. 

• The men’s Jester has a capacity of 28 liters, while the women’s version of the Jester is significantly smaller at 22 liters.

Rest assured that all of the pockets and compartments are the same on both the men’s and women’s versions of the Borealis and Jester.

The North Face Women’s Borealis (left) and Women’s Jester (right)

Borealis vs Jester: Capacity and Size 

The Borealis is the larger backpack overall and have a larger footprint when worn. You can expect the Borealis to be wider and stick out more when worn. In comparison, the Jester offers a slimmer fit that doesn’t stick out as much.

Model height: 5’6” - wearing womens Borealis and Jester backpacks

The North Face is all over the place when it comes to their internal carrying capacity and sizes, especially with the Jester backpacks.

Although the men’s Borealis and Jester sit comfortably at 28 liters, there is a huge difference between the women’s sizes, with the Jester being a lot smaller at 22 liters versus the 27 liters of the women’s Borealis.

Backpack Carrying Capacities in Liters:

• Women’s Borealis: 27L

• Men’s Borealis: 28L

• Women’s Jester: 22L

• Men’s Jester: 28L

Main compartments: 27L Borealis vs 22L Jester

What this means for you is that you can fit about the same volume of items inside the men’s Borealis and Jester. When comparing the women’s backpacks, our packing test revealed that you can fit an extra jacket inside the women’s Borealis.

Big Difference: Quality, Materials and Construction 

The main difference between the Borealis and Jester backpacks is in their construction quality. A little-known fact is that not all backpacks from The North Face are cut from the same cloth, literally.

The North Face backpacks can be split into two tiers: Premium Bags, which include models like the Borealis, Recon and Surge. These bags are made with premium materials at a higher price point. Then there are the Budget Bags which include the Jester and Vault, which are made with cheaper materials and cost less.

So, although the Borealis and Jester may look similar, they are actually on two different planets in terms of quality.

Nylon Ripstop construction and YKK zippers (left) vs recycled polyester and SBS zippers (right)

The Borealis is made of nylon ripstop with a water-repellent coating, top-of-the-line YKK zippers, and special features such as fleece-lined pockets throughout to protect items like sunglasses and tech.

The Jester, on the other hand, uses recycled polyester in its construction with cheaper SBS brand zippers. Most of its pockets are made of a cheaper mesh material and it features no special fleece-lined pockets.

You’ll also notice a difference in the hardware used in each respective backpack. The North Face Borealis is filled with hefty plastic hardware for the sternum strap, waist belt, and compression straps. Meanwhile, the Jester uses lighter plastic hardware and is missing a lot of key features like the waist belt and compression straps.

This leads us to the weight of each of these backpacks. All of the extra bells and whistles on the Borealis leads to heavier backpack overall.

Backpack Weights:

• Womens Borealis: 2 lbs 1 oz

• Mens Borealis: 2 lbs 5 oz

• Womens Jester: 1 lb 8 oz

• Mens Jester: 1 lb 10 oz

This difference in quality and construction is what accounts for the price difference, with the Borealis being the most expensive backpack. Meanwhile, the Jester stays consistently under $100, with attractive sale prices from time to time.

Borealis vs Jester: Pockets and Compartments

Laptop Compartment vs Sleeve

A major difference between the Borealis and Jester is the location of the laptop storage. The Borealis features a separate rear laptop compartment while the Jester has a laptop sleeve inside the main compartment.

The North Face Borealis vs Jester: Borealis laptop compartment vs the Jester laptop sleeve inside main compartment

Which is better? We prefer the external laptop compartment of the Borealis, but ultimately, it’s up to personal preference. We like not having to rummage through the main compartment to reach the laptop. It makes quickly grabbing tech a lot easier.

The Borealis and men’s Jester can all comfortably fit a laptop up to 15 inches, but the sleeve on the women’s Jester is a tad smaller, limiting your carry to a 14-inch laptop.

However, both the laptop compartment on the Borealis and sleeve on the Jester feature a false bottom to prevent the bottom of the laptop from reaching the bottom of the bag. This gives your tech extra protection in case of a bump or drop.

A low-key feature of the Borealis is the ability to turn the laptop compartment into a hydration pocket. If you look closely at the top of the laptop compartment on the Borealis, you’ll see a small Velcro hook with a small opening right above it. This is for attaching a hydration bladder. So, if you ever want to go hiking, you can attach a hydration bladder and port it to the outside of the bag. The Jester is missing this feature altogether.

Front Compartment and Extra Pockets

Both the Borealis and Jester come with a front compartment with smaller pockets for organization. The front compartment on the Borealis has more pockets overall, including a fleece-lined pocket for a phone or sunglasses and a larger slip pocket for a tablet. 

Front compartment on the Borealis and Jester - the Borealis has more pockets

The Jester offers mesh pockets for items like pens, accessories, and a phone but does not include any fleece-lined pocket or the larger tablet pocket. This is where the quality differences really shine as the cheaper mesh pockets feel a lot flimsier than the robust pockets inside the Borealis. 

The fleece-lined front pocket on The North Face Borealis is missing on the Jester

Additionally, the Borealis has an extra fleece-lined pocket on the front of the backpack to hold items like sunglasses or a phone. Unfortunately, the Jester is missing this pocket altogether.

Side Water Bottle Pockets

The gap in quality can be clearly seen in the differences of the side water bottle pockets. The Borealis uses heavier-duty mixed materials, including a stretchy tight-weave mesh for their water bottle pockets while the Jester uses a cheaper mesh material. The good news is that both the Jester and Borealis can easily fit larger 32oz water bottles. 

Pictured above are the Borealis and Jester with 24oz bottles for a side by side comparison.

One advantage that we will give to the Jester is that there is no bungee on top of the water bottle pockets to fuss with. This side-bungee on the Borealis acts as compression straps for the water bottle pocket and the bag itself, but in everyday use, you’ll just find it getting in the way. 

We really believe that The North Face added this bungee here to give the Borealis a cool look. Functionally, a proper compression strap (as seen on The North Face Recon) would have been more practical.

Elastic Bungee System

We are pretty sure the reason the Borealis and Jester get compared is that they both have a front elastic bungee storage system, but just like the gap in overall quality, there is a quality gap in the bungee designs.

Borealis vs Jester: towel attached to the elastic bungee storage system

The Borealis features clips in the center that allow you to detach the bungee for quicker attachments. These clips are missing on the Jester, and as a result, attaching something like a jacket or beach towel will take more time.

We can’t express enough how much easier the bungee on the Borealis is to use. Attaching extra cargo is simpler, faster, and less of a headache.

Another smaller difference is with the compression points. The Jester has two compression points on either side of the bungee to hold items in place. As a result, you have extra bungee hanging from either side of the bag that creates unnecessary snag points. The Borealis features just one compression point at the bottom, creating a cleaner look.

Shoulder Harness and Back Panel Differences

Both backpacks use a different version of The North Face’s FlexVent Suspension system with generous air channels on the back panels and ergonomic shoulder straps. The Borealis features extra lumbar support, which comes in handy when the backpack gets heavy. In short, if you are going for the backpack with the most back support, go with the Borealis.

As for shoulder straps, the Borealis does use better and more robust materials on its shoulder straps, but both backpacks feel about the same when worn. The shoulder straps on both backpacks are on the stiffer side and neither feel more cushioned than the other despite the differences in materials.

Both the Borealis and Jester include an adjustable chest strap, but only the Borealis includes a removable waist belt.

Which Backpack Should You Buy?

The North Face Borealis

Buy on Amazon

The North Face Jester

Buy on Amazon

Choose The North Face Borealis if… you want the full North Face backpack experience with better materials, fleece lined pockets and a separate laptop compartment. The inclusion of the removable waist belt and side compression straps also allow for more control of how you carry which can come in handy when the backpack is full.

Choose The North Face Jester if… you want a lightweight yet reliable backpack on a budget. The Jester is good for anyone who wants a basic North Face backpack without the higher price tag.

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The North Face Recon vs Borealis - What's the difference?

Shopping for a new North Face backpack? Are you torn between the Recon and Borealis? This North Face Recon vs Borealis backpack comparison is here to help you decide! We will showcase each backpack side by side to see what the real differences are so you can choose the right one for you.

Before we begin, it’s important to note that this comparison is for the 2023 versions of both the North Face Recon and Borealis. The North Face is known for updating their backpack designs every so often, so specific details may be different if you wish to compare older versions of either backpack.

Video Review

Quick Specs

	The North Face Recon	The North Face Borealis
Volume	30 Liters	28 Liters (Mens) 27 Liters (Womens)
Material	Recycled Ripstop Nylon YKK Zippers	Recycled Ripstop Nylon YKK Zippers
Laptop Sleeve	Up to 15" laptop	Up to 15" laptop
Front Storage	Stash pocket	Elastic bungee system
Bottom Compression Straps	Yes	Yes
Sternum Strap	Yes	Yes
Waist Belt	Yes	Yes
Price

Men’s vs Women’s North Face Backpacks

The women’s versions are used in this Recon vs Borealis comparison. If you are looking to purchase a men’s North Face backpack, please note that 99% of this comparison will still apply.

The main differences between the men’s and women’s versions are as follows:

• Men’s North Face backpacks have larger back panels and wider shoulder straps to accommodate broader shoulders. This is the biggest difference. 

• The men’s version of the North Face Borealis has a 28-liter carrying capacity while the women’s version is 27 liters. Both the men’s and women’s versions of the Recon are 30 liters. 

• All of the pockets and compartments have the same configuration in both the men’s and women’s versions.

North Face Recon vs Borealis Side-By-Side

The North Face Recon (left) and Borealis (right)

Carrying Capacity and Size

One difference between the North Face Recon and Borealis is their size and carrying capacity.

The North Face Recon has a carrying capacity of 30 liters, while the Borealis sports a carrying capacity of 28 liters for the men’s version and 27 liters for the women’s version.

A 2-3 liter difference in carrying capacity isn’t all that much, and in our packing tests, we found the difference to be about the size of a 24oz water bottle (or two cans of soda). Most of the extra room on the Recon can be found in the depth of the main compartment (from front to back) when compared to the Borealis. 

Is it enough of a size difference for you to notice? Maybe, if you need the most packing room you can get. But for most people, the size difference might not even be noticed, especially when worn.

Pockets and Compartments

Spoiler: The pockets are mostly the same

The choice of pockets and compartments of these backpacks is where things get interesting. Despite their drastically different exteriors, The North Face chooses to use the same exterior pockets, organizer panels, and laptop sleeves with each bag. There really isn’t much difference between the North Face Recon and Borealis when it comes to storage.

The North Face Recon and Borealis are essentially the same backpack with different exterior shells.

Let’s run through the main carry features so you can see what we mean. Both the Recon and Borealis have the same fleece-lined front pocket to store items like sunglasses, phones, and tech you want to prevent from getting scratched up.

The fleece lined pocket on The North Face Recon and Borealis backpacks

Both backpacks have nearly identical front organizer compartments. These compartments have pockets for small items such as pens, phones, and chargers. The North Face also includes a padded, fleece-lined pocket for a small tablet in both.

The laptop sleeves on the North Face Recon and Borealis are also very similar and can both support a laptop up to 15 inches. Both laptop compartments also have hookups for a water bladder, allowing you to turn both into hiking backpacks.

The only difference is that the laptop sleeve on the Borealis sits 3 inches higher than the one on the Recon. As a result, the laptop compartment on the Recon is much deeper, despite being about the same width as the laptop sleeve on the Borealis.

• Women’s Recon laptop sleeve: 18'' x 10.6'

• Women’s Borealis laptop sleeve: 12.5'' x 11' 

The similarities continue with the water bottle pockets. They are the same elastic water bottle pockets and can easily fit larger 32oz bottles, but the difference is that the Recon has compression straps to secure the bottle in place, while the Borealis has bungee compression. And for what it’s worth, it is much easier and faster to adjust the bungee than it is to adjust the compression strap.

Exterior Storage Differences

The real difference between the Recon and Borealis are with their exterior storage designs. The Recon has a stretchy quick-stash pocket while the Borealis has a bungee storage system.

The elastic storage system on the Borealis is made out of small tie-out loops with elastic cord running through them, and The North Face has recently added a clip-on feature that allows you to quickly stash items onto the bungee. It’s best used for attaching large and bulky items to the front of the backpack.

What the bungee is good for:

• Quickly tying down a light jacket or sweater

• Carrying bulky items like a beach towel or blanket

• Securing extra tall items like a light sleeping bag or yoga mat.

What the bungee is not good for:

• Attaching smaller items like a book, headphones, hat or gloves

The elastic bungee system is incredibly functional and you can find a million ways to use it. This feature alone makes the North Face Borealis a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile backpack for school, travel or outdoor activities where carrying bulky items is necessary.

The North Face Recon ditches the bungee system for a single stash pocket. Although the pocket is stretchy, it isn’t that large.

If you have a light sweatshirt or jacket - it might fit. Smaller items like a bike lock or a small notebook will fit just fine. But the pocket definitely too small for a pair of shoes, blanket or a bike helmet.

What the stash pocket is good for:

• Quickly stashing away smaller items like hats, gloves, books and snacks

• You may be able to fit a lightweight compressible jacket

• Storing a bike lock if using the Recon for commuting

What the stash pocket is not good for:

• The pocket is too small for a bike helmet, blanket, shoes or other larger items

This front stash pocket on the North Face Recon is most useful when you need to put something away quickly and don’t have time to open up a zippered pocket. It’s actually very convenient on busy days. 

Another difference on the Recon is the inclusion of daisy chains on the front of the stash pocket which the Borealis doesn’t have. Although the men’s version of the Borealis does include similar daisy chains on the side of the bag, the women’s Borealis includes no daisy chains whatsoever. Both the Recon and Borealis feature a lash tab on the bottom of the front of each bag.

As an aside, if you want to learn more about daisy chains, tie out loops, and lash tabs then make sure to check out our anatomy of a backpack guide where we explain what all of these external attachments are for.

Material and Construction Comparison

When it comes to construction and materials, both the Recon and Borealis are on the same page. The North Face uses the exact same primary materials for both backpacks, and construction quality feels identical. 

Both bags use the same water-repellent recycled ripstop nylon and YKK zippers. Specific secondary materials may vary depending on which color you choose, as the North Face may use additional fabrics for different colors.

Since both the Borealis and Recon use the same exact shoulder straps and back panels, both backpacks feel the same when worn. Seriously. Neither backpack edges the other one out in terms of comfort, since the size differences aren’t that great to begin with.

As you can see, most of the differences between the North Face Borealis and Recon are cosmetic. Their important carry, comfort, and construction features are nearly identical.

Which Backpack is Better?

The North Face Recon

The North Face Borealis

Choose the North Face Recon if… you absolutely need a larger backpack for books, binders, clothes and other essential items. At 30 liters, it’s just the right size for a daily backpack without being too bulky. The quick stash pocket in the front is convenient and comes in handy when you are in a rush. Commuters will like that the external pocket on the Recon that can comfortably fit a bike lock.

Choose the North Face Borealis if… you like the idea of the external bungee system to haul around oversized gear like blankets and jackets. This bungee system is great once you start to utilize it since it frees up the main compartment and gives you a ton of more storage space.

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10 Best Backpacks For Tablets - iPad and iPad Pro Backpacks

As computing technology advances, more people are replacing their clunky laptops with a slimmer and lighter tablet for work, school and travel. 

Although most backpacks do a great job at protecting your laptop, unfortunately not all are designed with a dedicated tablet pocket which is bad news for people who carry both devices.

In this buying guide we put together a list of the best backpacks for tablets available right now. Whether you are looking for a backpack for your iPad, Surface Pro, or Kindle we have you covered.

Pictured: Got Bag Daypack with 12.9” iPad Pro

We have divided this list into to two sections:

• Best Small Tablet Backpacks - A small and slim backpack with just enough room for your tablet and other daily essentials.

• Best Backpacks for Laptop and Tablet - Full-sized backpacks with all the features you need to a store a tablet, laptop and your daily school, work or travel items. These backpacks all have dedicated laptop and tablet pockets.

Best Small Tablet Backpacks

Osprey Arcane Small Daypack

Osprey offers a compact option for those looking for a small tablet backpack to carry just the essentials. What the Arcane Small Daypack does well is offer a ton of pockets to organize your gear. From a generously padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet up to 13-inches to sneaky outer pockets for sunglasses and a metro card - the Osprey Arcane Small Daypack has you covered.

• Read more about the Osprey Arcane Small

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 10L

  • Slim and small backpack for iPad or 13” laptop

  • Intuitive pockets for organizing your daily essentials

  • Includes a large front scratch-free pocket for sunglasses or phone

  • Stylish minimalist design available in a variety of colors

  The Osprey Arcane Small Daypack is equipped with a single padded laptop sleeve for devices up to 13-inches. Those looking for an iPad backpack with love the slim design and simple functionality that the Arcane Small has to offer. The 10L main compartment is roomy enough for essentials while the various pockets allow for easy organization of pens, keys, a phone and more.

  Osprey is know for their great quality bags that put an emphasis on comfort and the Arcane Small is no exception. Each bag is constructed with eco-friendly recycled fabric and has a PFC-free DWR finish for great water resistance.

Got Bag Daypack

Designed for carrying just the essentials, the Got Bag Daypack is the perfect small backpack for your iPad, accessories and daily must-haves thanks to its minimalist style, sustainable water resistant construction and fun color options.

• Read more about the Got Bag Daypack

  Features at a glance:

  • Outer dimensions: 14"H x 11"W x 5”D

  • Padded sleeve can fit a laptop or tablet up to 13”

  • Water resistant construction

  • 11L capacity

  • Available in lots of fun colors

  The padded sleeve inside the Got Bag Daypack is roomy enough to fit any device up to 13-inches such as a laptop or larger tablet like the 12.9” iPad Pro. 

  As a slim tablet backpack the Got Bag Daypack has everything you need to for daily use or travel. We love the water resistant construction that is made from recycled plastic bottles with a  coating that’s free of harmful PFC and PVC. Not only is this tablet backpack stylish, but it’s sustainable and ready to take on your next outdoor adventure!

Day Owl Slim Backpack

The Day Owl Slim makes the perfect small tablet backpack thanks to it’s compact size and padded sleeve that can fit any device up to 14-inches, including a large iPad Pro. Use the Day Owl Slim as your travel companion on long flights or as a daily carry backpack for your tablet and essentials.

• Read more about the Day Owl Slim

  Features at a glance:

  • Outer dimensions: 15.5"H x 11"W x 3.5”D 

  • Padded compartment can fit a laptop or tablet up to 14”

  • Top sunglasses pocket

  • Hidden water bottle pocket

  • Available in a ton of colors

  The dedicated rear zipper compartment on the Day Owl Slim is roomy enough to fit any device up to 14-inches such as a laptop or larger tablet like the 12.9” iPad Pro. 

  As a slim tablet backpack the Day Owl Slim has everything you need to for daily use or travel. One of our favorite features is the hidden water bottle pocket that can be accessed from the side and is lined with neoprene material to prevent accidental spills from damaging items stored in other parts of the backpack. It’s a pretty neat design feature and we are here for it.

Kensington Triple Trek Slim Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Touting a compact and professional design, the Kensington Triple Trek Slim Backpack offers an easy way to carry just the essentials for work and travel. Inside you’ll find both a fleece-lined laptop sleeve and a separate tablet pocket along with plenty of pockets to keep you organized when on the move.

• Read more about the Kensington Triple Trek

  Features at a glance:

  • Tablet sleeve dimensions: 10.6 x 7.4 x 1.8

  • Laptop sleeve dimensions: 13 x 9 x 1

  • Fleece lined tablet and laptop sleeves

  • Plenty of pockets for sunglasses, pens and accessories

  The laptop sleeve can hold larger tablets such as the iPad Pro and Microsoft Surface while the tablet sleeve can accommodate regular iPads, iPad Air, iPad Mini and similarly sized tablets. Both sleeves are padded and fleece lined to protect your expensive tech and prevent scratches.

  The Kensington Triple Trek Slim also has many essentials features needed to carry accessories such as a mouse, cables and chargers. Don’t let this small backpack fool you, there is enough room in the main compartment is to also carry a couple of books and notebooks in addition to your tech gear. The backpack even features a headphone port, hidden valuables pocket and a water bottle pocket for convenience on the go.

The North Face Jester

The North Face Jester is a lightweight backpack with a single padded laptop sleeve that is perfect for tablet carry. If you are looking for a functional tablet backpack with a roomy main compartment and pockets for organizations then the Jester may be just the ticket. 

The North Face Jester is available in men’s and women’s fits and a ton of color options to suit your style.

• Read more about The North Face Jester

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 27L

  • Available in men’s and women’s specific fits

  • Single 15” laptop sleeve inside main compartment

  • Additional front compartment with lots of smaller pockets

  • Lightweight construction and design

  Webbing system for attaching additional items to front of pack

  The padded laptop sleeve inside The North Face Jester is large enough for a device up to 15-inches which is great news for those with larger tablets. The cushioned sleeve offers ample protection for tablets since the sleeve is suspended inside the main compartment. This means that your tablet won’t hit the edges of the bag when bumped or dropped.

  Although technically a laptop backpack, we like the idea of using the Jester as a tablet backpack for its lightweight construction. If you just need to pack your tablet and just a few other items then the Jester will stay light and airy on the back but on long days where you need to pack a lot more, the Jester is well equipped for comfort thanks to its padded FlexVent Suspension back panel and shoulder harness. This kind of versatility is what sets it apart from heavier and bulkier laptop backpacks like the North Face Surge and Borealis.

Osprey Daylite

Osprey offers an ultra-lightweight and versatile tablet backpack option for commuting and outdoor adventures with the Daylite. This compact backpack features a 13 liter main compartment with a multi-use sleeve that can fit up to a 12.9” iPad Pro. A front organizer compartment and water bottle pockets makes the Daylite a great choice for everything from running errands in the city to a day on the trail.

• Read more about the Osprey Daylite

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 13L

  • Ultra lightweight construction

  • Made with water resistant materials

  • Multi-use internal sleeve fits devices up to 13”

  • Mesh back panel and shoulder straps for year-round comfort

  The Osprey gets its best design features from traditional technical hiking daypacks that focus on comfort and utility. As a result the Daylite offers a water resistant construction made of durable and lightweight materials as well as a breathable mesh back panel and shoulder harness for comfortable year-round outdoor wear. 

  The multi-use nature of the internal sleeve on the Osprey Daylite means that it is not padded but we did find it to be a great spot for an iPad or 12.9” iPad Pro and offers adequate protection. This sleeve can also be used to store a water bladder when hiking or for storing anything you want to keep separate in the main compartment. A front compartment with smaller pockets offers additional storage for a tablet charger and accessories. 

  The Osprey Daylite might not be the most tech-focused backpack but its great choice if you are looking for a simple, compact and lightweight iPad backpack that can be used for anything from hiking, picnics, errands, bike commuting and other activities.

Best Backpacks for Laptop and iPad

For anyone looking for a laptop backpack with a tablet pocket these following bags may be just the ticket. These backpacks make daily carry of your tablet a breeze thanks to their dedicated tablet pockets and other functional features that make them ideal for daily carry. 

The North Face Surge Backpack

The North Face Surge is a roomy tech backpack designed for both students and professionals alike. What makes this backpack special is its large laptop compartment that includes a dedicated tablet pocket and room for a large book or notebook. This allows you instant access to your important tech without having to rummage through the main compartment.

The Surge is available in both men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit.

• Read more about The North Face Surge

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 31L

  • Available in men’s and women’s fit

  • Dedicated 15” laptop compartment with tablet sleeve

  • Additional tablet sleeve in front organizer compartment for small tablet (Kindle, iPad Mini)

  • Tons of pockets for organizing smaller items like pens, chargers, phone and sunglasses

  • Fleece lined pockets for tech and valuables can be found throughout the bag

  The rear laptop compartment on The North Face Surge is large enough to hold a 15” laptop and has a separate sleeve for a tablet. We found the sleeve to be large enough to store a 12.9 iPad Pro and its suspended design means your tablet will stay protected from bumps and drops.

  In addition to the rear laptop sleeve, The North Face Surge also includes a dedicated tablet pocket in the front organizer compartment. This fleece lined tablet pocket is large enough to fit an iPad Mini, Kindle Fire or other similarly small tablet. Unfortunately this tablet sleeve is too small for a regular sized iPad, iPad Air and the larger iPad Pro.

Matein Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

The Matein Laptop Backpack is an affordable bag with impressive features for the price. In addition to having tons of great pockets for organization and a large main compartment for daily essentials, the Matein Laptop Backpack also features a tech compartment with a laptop and tablet sleeve for easy and safe storage of your tech.

Check out our Matein Laptop Backpack review for a closer look at the details.

• Read more about the Matein Laptop Backpack

  Features at a glance:

  • Affordable price (under $50)

  • Dedicated tech compartment with both a laptop and table sleeve

  • Tablet sleeve can accommodate up 13” tablets

  • Roomy main compartment for work, school or travel

  • Includes integrated external USB charging port

  The Matein Laptop Backpack is recommended for anyone who is looking for a cheap and reliable tablet backpack to haul their gear. The bag itself is available in two different sizes for different laptop accommodations (15.6” and 17”) but the tablet sleeves on both versions fit a tablet up to 13 inches. This is great news if you are looking for a budget Microsoft Surface or iPad Pro backpack as most tablet sleeves cannot accommodate larger tablets.

WANDRD PRVKE

The WANDRD PRVKE is an adaptable camera, travel and laptop backpack that’s perfect for both work and play. This backpack is equipped with both a laptop and tablet sleeve and features plenty of pockets for storing accessories.

The PRVKE is available in a few different sizes so that you can dial in the right fit and storage space for your need.

• Read more about the WANDRD PRVKE

  Features at a glance:

  • Available in 21, 31, and 41 liter sizes. Also available in the compact PRVKE LITE version.

  • Dual access design - enter the backpack through the top rolltop or through a clamshell zipper

  • Includes both a laptop and tablet sleeve

  • Modular design allows you to attach camera cubes, straps and other accessories to make the PRVKE your own

  • Made of high quality waterproof materials

  One of the best features of the WANDRD PRVKE is it’s multi-access design that allows you to use the backpack as a traditional rolltop backpack with top-access or as a clamshell backpack thanks to it’s 3/4 zipper located against the back panel.

  The laptop and tablet compartments can be found against the back panel for quick and easy access no matter how you access your PRVKE.

  The laptop sleeve can fit up to a 16” Macbook Pro while the tablet sleeve can accommodate to a 12.9” iPad Pro. Both sleeves are generously padded and suspended to protect your expensive tech from bumps and drops.

  If you are looking for a great quality iPad backpack then we couldn’t recommend the WANDRD PRVKE enough. This bag is built solid! The PRVKE is made from waterproof tarpaulin and 1680D Ballistic Nylon and the zippers used are hefty weather resistant zippers that have held up well over time. The shoulder straps and back panel are generously padded and geared towards comfort which is something we can all appreciate in a backpack being used to haul photography gear and tech.

GULU Made Innovator Backpack

The GULU Designs Innovator is a reliable laptop backpack with a dedicated padded tablet sleeve that’s perfect for securely storing your iPad. Other awesome features include a sleek design, tons of pockets for tech accessories and two roomy main compartments for organizing your school, work and travel items.

• Read more about the GULU Made Innovator

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 22L

  • Includes both a laptop and tablet sleeve

  • Slim design without the bulk

  • Lots of pockets for organizing daily essentials

  • Cushioned Lux-Comfort back panel

  • Handmade in Uganda

  The Gulu Designs Innovator features two main compartments for hauling your gear. The rear compartment has a tech station with both a padded laptop sleeve and an additional smaller dedicated tablet sleeve. The second main compartment is a large and roomy compartment that is lined with mesh pockets for organizing your gear. Chargers and accessories can be stored inside these mesh pockets or inside the smaller compartments on the outside of the bag for quick access.

  As an iPad backpack, you can fit a tablet up to 11 inches inside the dedicated tablet pocket. If you carry a larger 12.9 inch iPad Pro it can comfortably fit inside the laptop sleeve which can accommodate devices up to 15 inches.

  We like the GULU Made Innovator for its great quality, simple yet functional design and awesome tech storage options. Each GULU Made product is made by skilled sewers in Gulu, Uganda and the brand strives to make a difference which each product they offer.

Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack

The Timbuk2 Authority is a roomy laptop backpack with a tablet pocket that is perfect for business, travel or school. This backpack includes a 17” laptop compartment plus a secondary sleeve inside the main compartment that can accommodate large tablets for peace of mind when storing expensive tech. 

Clever pocket placement inside the Timbuk2 Authority allows you to stay organized on busy days while the bottom compression strap system gives you a slim backpack on light days and more room when you need it with a quick adjustment.

• Read more about the Timbuk2 Authority

  Features at a glance:

  • Backpack Dimension: 18.9 x 11.4 x 5.31 inches

  • Capacity: 28 Liters

  • Laptop compartment: Device up to 17”

  • Tons of pockets for organization

  • Secondary sleeve for tablet inside main compartment

  • Super comfortable padded air mesh back panel and shoulder straps

  The Timbuk2 Authority is great for anyone looking for an iPad Pro backpack with great organization and tons of pockets. This backpack gives you a couple of options for storing tech devices including a separate zippered laptop compartment as well as a tablet sleeve that can accommodate larger tablets such as an 12.9” iPad Pro with an Apple Magic Keyboard or Smart Keyboard Folio.

  Those who hate clutter will love the large admin compartment that make it super easy to keep pens, chargers and other small items nice and organized. Features such as a luggage pass-through sleeve for attaching to rolling luggage, reflective straps for safer low-light commuting and compression straps to adjust the size of the backpack to your carry are what makes the Timbuk2 Authority such a versatile option for work, school, city commuting and travel.

Alternative: Tablet Sling

If you find most backpacks with a laptop and tablet sleeve too bulky then a small tablet sling might be just the ticket. These are slim bags that are designed to hold just a tablet and a few other essentials. 

We recently put together a great list of the best laptop and tablet sling bags that is worth checking out but below are a few of our favorites.

Alpaka Bravo Sling Pro V2

Alpaka offers a sling pack specifically designed for tech carry with the Bravo Sling Pro V2. This sling is equipped with a padded tablet sleeve, external USB charging port and a clever anti-theft design for secure wear while out and about.

• Padded 11” tablet compartment (fits up to 11” iPad Pro)

• Anti-theft design with lockable zippers and cut-proof fabric

• External USB port for charging devices on the go

• Waterproof construction

Solo Universal Tablet Sling

Buy on Amazon

For those of you who need a small tablet backpack it may be worth considering the Solo Universal Tablet Sling. It’s a great option for carrying your tablet safely with room to spare for charging cables, sunglasses and other daily essentials. The bottom zip pocket includes organizers for smaller items such as a phone, power bank or wallet.

• Adjustable single strap sling pack

• Padded compartment fits tablets up to 11 inches.

• Front zipper pockets for extra storage.

Simtop iPad Sling Bag

Buy on Amazon

The SIMTOP iPad Sling Bag is as simple as they come with a slim main compartment specifically sized to protect your tablet and an additional zip pocket for charger and accessories. SIMTOP offers tablet bags in different sizes to specifically fit your iPad and iPad Pro so make sure to check out all of their sling bag options.

• Available in 11” and 12.9” iPad sizes

• Super slim profile with an extra pocket for accessories

• Cushioned and protective compartment for an iPad or tablet

• Water resistant construction

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14 Best Backpacks for Medical School - Tested for Real Med Students

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.

Knack Pack Series 2

Knack Bags

Nomatic Backpack

Nomatic

Matein Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

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

Perfect for medical students

Front organizer compartment on the Knack Pack Series 2

Inside the main compartment

Knack Pack Series 2

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.

Tablet Sleeve + Laptop Compartment

The tablet sleeve is located inside the main compartment on the Knack Pack Series 2

Extra Storage

The Knack Pack Series 2’s expandable travel compartment

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.

Tech and document station

Inside the Nomatic Backpack main compartment

What Fits Inside

The Nomatic Backpack

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.

Organize your medical school gear

Nomatic backpack for medical school

More pockets than you can count!

The Nomatic Backpack

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

Front pockets on The North Face Surge

The North Face Surge - inside the main compartment

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.

The North Face Surge laptop compartment

Fits a 15” laptop, iPad Pro and large notebook or textbook

Ready for Medical School

Front organizer compartment with tablet sleeve on the North Face Surge

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

Outside pockets on The Ridge Commuter

Weatherproof backpack for medical school with side access laptop sleeve

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.

Clamshell Lay-Flat Access

The Ridge Commuter Backpack

Ready for Class

Two-zipper design - use the Ridge Commuter like a regular bookbag

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.

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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

Matein Laptop Backpack

Sneaky front pockets

Portable Charging

Connect your own power bank to the integrated USB charger

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.

Front Organizer Compartment

Everything you need in a med school backpack

Main Compartment

Inside the Matein Laptop Backpack

Rear Tech Compartment

Sleeves for both a laptop and laptop

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

Organize Your Medical School Items

Front pockets on the GULU Made Innovator backpack

Laptop and Tablet Sleeves

Inside the rear compartment of the GULU Made Innovator Backpack

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.

Inside the main compartment

GULU Made Innovator Backpack

Pockets line the main compartment

Inside the GULU Made Innovator backpack

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

Stay Organized in Med School

Outside pockets on the Knack Pack Series 1

Inside the Main Compartment

Knack Pack Series 1

Fleece Lined Tablet Sleeve

The Knack Pack Series 1 has spots for a laptop and tablet

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

Outside Pockets

The North Face Recon backpack

Front Organizer Compartment

The North Face Recon backpack for medical school

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.

Inside the Main Compartment

The North Face Recon backpack

Laptop Compartment

The North Face Recon backpack

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

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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

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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.

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14 Best Backpacks with Chest Straps - School, Laptop, Travel

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

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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

• Backpack with shoe compartment

• 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

• Backpack that opens like a suitcase

• Tons of pockets for organization

• RFID Safe Pocket

• Cord Pass-Through for charging on the move

• TSA lay-flat laptop compartment

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How Big is a 30 Liter Backpack? Visual 30L Backpack Size Guide

Whether you are looking for a backpack for school, work or travel - finding the right size is an important part of in choosing the best backpack for your needs.

In this guide we will take a deep dive to explore how big a 30 liter backpack is and what fits inside using real examples.

If you would like to compare different backpack sizes we highly recommend you check out our backpack size guide. Our visual guides can be a big help in determining the best size backpack for your next purchase.

The North Face Recon 30L Backpack (left) and the Able Carry Max 30L Backpack (right)

How Big Is a 30L Backpack?

Determining the size of a 30 liter backpack depends on many factors such as the internal dimensions, external dimensions, materials and the overall backpack shape and design. We will go step-by-step to help you get a better idea of how big a 30 liter backpack is with real examples.

How big is a liter?

One liter is equal to .001 cubic meter. Determining the liter size of an area involves quite a bit of math but the formula is simple once you get it down. Read more to learn about the formula in-depth.

Read more measuring backpack sizes in liters

Here is the two step process:

1. Find out your volume in cubic meters

2. Multiple your cubic meters by 1,000 to determine liters

Step 1 - Find out your volume in cubic meters

Liters are a unit of measure in the metric system to determine volume so for these measurements we are going to going to be using meters.

Determine the measurements in meters of a given area by measuring the width, length and depth in meters. The width, length and depth measurements are then multiplied together. This number is your volume in cubic meters.

Example: .38 Width x .4 Height x .2 Depth = .04 cubic meters

Step 2 - Convert your cubic meters to Liters

Since there are 1,000 liters in a cubic meter, converting your cubic meters to liters is as simple as multiplying by 1,000.

Example: .04 cubic meters x 1,000 = 30.4 Liters

Here are some common Liter conversions to help you compare volume sizes:

• 1 Liter = .001 Cubic meter

• 1 Liter = .0353 Cubic foot

• 1 Liter = .264 US liquid gallon

• 1 Cubit meter = 1,000 Liter

• 1 Cubic foot = 28.316 Liter

• 1 US liquid gallon = 3.785 Liter

30L Backpack Size and Dimensions

The volume of a 30 liter backpack is usually reserved for the size of the backpack’s main compartment or the combination of multiple internal compartments. The main compartment is the largest compartment in the bag where you will hold the bulk of your storage.

As a result when we refer to a “30 liter backpack” it’s safe to assume that we are talking about a backpack that has a 30 liter main compartment or multiple compartments that make up 30 liters total. 

The internal dimensions of a main compartment are different from the overall dimensions of a backpack. Although main compartment measurements may be similar, the overall dimensions of a 30 liter backpack can differ greatly depending on the outside pockets, additional compartments and overall design.

Read more about 30 Liter Backpack Dimensions

Internal Dimensions of a 30 liter main compartment

For our 30L backpack examples we have The North Face Recon and Able Carry Max backpacks. We used inches to determine the measurements of the inside of each main compartment. Note that both of these are 30L backpacks!

• The North Face Recon main compartment dimensions: 19” Height x 12” Width x 8” Depth

• Able Carry Max main compartment dimensions: 20” Height x 12” Width x 5.25” Depth

External Dimensions of a 30 liter backpack

The overall dimensions are the measurements of a backpack from the outside. This includes all pockets and compartments and takes account of the thickness of materials.

• The North Face Recon overall dimensions: 20” Height x 15” Width x 9” Depth

• Able Carry Max overall dimensions: 20.5” Height x 12.5” Width x 8” Depth

Going with liter size alone isn’t always the best way to determine if a backpack will be too big or too small.

As you can see from the measurements above, no two 30 liter backpack dimensions will be the same. If you are trying to determine if a 30-liter backpack is the right size for your needs then it’s best to refer to the overall dimensions of the backpack to make that determination.

How much does 30L backpack weigh?

The weight of a 30 liter backpack depends on the materials used, back panel and shoulder strap cushioning, and additional pockets that the backpack may have. As a result no two 30 liter backpacks weigh the same. 

Here are the weights of a few different 30 liter backpacks:

• The North Face Recon 30L: 2.37 lbs

• Able Carry Max 30L: 3.79 lbs

• Osprey Porter Carry-On 30L: 2.822 lbs

• Patagonia Refugio 30L: 1.75 lbs

As you can see from the examples above, although each backpack has a capacity of 30 liters, they all have different weights. As a general rule, you can expect a 30 liter backpack to weigh on average between 2 and 3 pounds. Again, the weight depends on the materials used but we have found that most 30 liter backpack weigh in that general range.

The variance in backpack weight is determined by a few factors. Below we go over some of the most common differences that would cause two similarly sized 30 liter backpacks weigh differently.

Backpack Hardware 

Backpack hardware refers to zippers, buckles and adjusters. Most backpack hardware is made of either plastic or metal and as a general rule plastic is lighter than metal. Zippers can be made out of all metal or plastic.

Buckles and adjusters can also either be made of plastic or metal. Metal such as brass and steel are much heavier than aluminum or plastic. Paying attention to what material a backpack uses for its hardware and you’ll have a better understanding of where some of its overall weight comes from.

Fabrics and materials

Since a 30 liter backpack is larger than a 15L or 20L backpack, it is safe to say that it will also use more materials and therefore be heavier.

As a general rule thicker fabrics are usually heavier than flimsier fabrics. Heavy weight fabrics include leather, high density polyester, Cordura Nylon and Ballistic nylon or polyester. These heavy-duty fabrics are know for being puncture resistant, less prone to tears and are rugged enough to be used and abused over time. But they are heavy!

Fabrics and materials that are known for their light weight include lower denier polyester or nylon, XPAC, Nylon Ripstop, and recycled polyester. These fabrics are often used for their lighter weight and strength. Another quick tip: synthetic vegan leather is usually lighter than real leather.

Materials that help keep the weight down include mesh pockets, thin polyester lining, and lightweight foam padding.

Overall shape and design of a 30L backpack

The backpack’s shape and pocket design also heavily determines the overall weight of a 30 liter backpack. If a backpack has a large 30 liter main compartment as well as multiple extra pockets and compartments then it’s going to weigh a lot more than a backpack with less additions.

What fits in a 30L Backpack?

Now that we have determined how big a 30 liter backpack is, let’s find out what fits inside using the most common use cases; school, work, travel and the gym. These examples feature the 30 liter Able Carry Max backpack.

30 liter backpack for school and work

School and work items include a laptop, tablet, pens, and notebooks. Many students also pack large and bulky items such as textbooks, binders, food and a change of clothes. It’s with the latter where 30 liter backpacks really shine.

What fits inside a 30L backpack for school and work?

• 15.6” Laptop

• Camera Cube (7.5” x 8” x 4”)

• Pencil Case

• Large Headphones

• 2x 1” Binders

• 21 Oz Water Bottle

• Large 3 subject notebook

• Sweater

Is a 30L backpack big enough for school?

We recommend a 30L backpack for school if you plan on carrying a lot of bulkier items. This includes textbooks, binders, clothing and sports equipment, shoes or a lunch. A 30 liter backpack may be too large for students who only carry a few notebooks and a laptop.

Should I get a 30 liter backpack for high school or college?

Students who plan on carrying lots of textbooks, notebooks and binders would benefit in getting a 30 liter backpack for high school. High school students with heavy work loads will often find themselves having to carry multiple classes worth of items at once. This is where a larger capacity backpack shines.

30 liter backpacks are also great for high school or college students who want one bag for both their class items and items for extra-curricular activities such as clubs and sports.

Is a 30 liter backpack the right size for work?

A 30L backpack for work is best suited for people with busy schedules or those who plan to carry multiple bulkier items such as a binders, paperwork, food and beverages, sweaters, jackets or even gym clothes and shoes for after work. 

If your daily carry is minimalist with just a laptop, a few office items and water bottle then you’ll most likely find a 30L backpack to be too large.

Those who prefer sleeker professional backpacks for work may also find the size of a 30 liter backpack to be too large and bulky. We recommend you take a look at our favorite business casual backpacks for options in smaller sizes. At the end of the day it depends on what you need to carry daily and if a 30 liter backpack will fit your needs.

30 Liter Backpack for TRavel

A 30L backpack for travel is usually considered a small to mid-size travel bag. In general, you can expect to fit up to a week’s worth of items inside a 30 liter backpack. Note that travel backpacks and bags can go up to 45, 50 or even 70 liters!

What fits inside a 30L travel bag?

We used 3 different sized packing cubes for this example. The packing cube dimensions are:

• 17.5 x 12.75 x 3.25 inches

• 13.75 x 9.75 x 3 inches

• 14 x 5 x 2.8 inches

Inside the packing cubes we managed to fit:

• 4 pairs of pants

• 2 sweaters

• 7 t-shirts

• socks and underwear

Is a 30 liter backpack too small too small for travel?

A 30L backpack is the perfect size for short trips or for people who pack light. On average, you can expect to fit a week’s worth of clothing inside a 30 liter main compartment with light packers fitting up to two week’s worth of clothing and gear.

Many weekender backpacks are often around the 30 liter size for this reason. Weekender backpacks are smaller backpacks that open like a suitcase and are only meant for packing for an overnight stay or short weekend trip.

If you worry about how much can fit inside a 30 liter backpack then we recommend with going with a larger 40 or 45 liter travel backpack instead

What’s the advantage of using a 30L travel bag?

When compared to larger travel bags, a 30 liter travel bag can often fit underneath an airline seat and easily fit in overhead compartments. Their dimensions also often fall under the maximum carry on requirements for peace of mind when traveling light. We recommend using a 30 liter backpack carry on as its often just the right size for airline bag requirements.

One-bag and minimalist travelers will appreciate the smaller size of a 30L backpacks when compared with commonly available larger options. 30 liter is definitely a goldilocks volume between being too big and too small.

Does a 30L backpack make a good women’s travel backpack?

Since 30 liter travel backpacks are usually on the smaller side when compared to other larger sizes, we highly recommend a 30 liter travel backpack for women. If you would like to explore your options then we recommend you check out our list of best women’s carry on backpacks that features many 30 liter options.

30 liter backpack for the gym

30 liters is the perfect size for a gym bag due to their larger main compartments that can fit bulkier items like clothing, shoes and training equipment.

What fits inside a 30L gym bag?

• Running Shoes (US Men’s Size 12)

• Weightlifting Belt

• 32 Oz Water Bottle

• Boxing Gloves

• Toiletries Bag

Is a 30L backpack big enough for the gym?

As you can see with our example above, a 30L backpack is large enough for a pair of shoes, a change of clothes and some extra workout gear. We believe that a 30 liter backpack is a great size for people who need a mobile locker to keep all of their gear organized. 

Where a 30 liter backpack might struggle is with workouts and sports that require lots of large and bulky gear. Think Boxing, MMA, Hockey and Football. For example, you may be able to fit extra shoes and sparring gloves inside a 30 liter backpack but when you add headgear, shin-guards and other safety equipment - a 30 liter bag will quickly run out of room.

The examples above only show what fits inside the 30L main compartment. They do not account for the extra pockets, laptop compartment and water bottle pockets that are also on the backpack.

Wrap Up

Now that we have given you some real examples of what fits inside a 30L backpack lets discuss who would benefit the most from a backpack this size.

We recommend a 30 Liter Backpack to:

• School backpack for students who carry larger items

• Commuters who need to pack a day’s worth of items

• Medium-sized Gym/Workout bag

• Travel bag for weekends or short trips

Our Favorite 30L Backpacks

Db Strøm 30L Backpack

The Db Strøm is currently one of our favorite backpacks for hauling large gear for travel, sports and even the gym. This is thanks to it’s clamshell main compartment that opens fully so you can have easy-access to your gear. Other awesome features include a separate padded laptop compartment, plenty of mesh pockets for organization and Db’s special “rib cage technology” that makes the Strøm incredibly lightweight for its size while offering great protection of delicate cargo.

The North Face Recon

The North Face Recon is a great all-rounder backpack thanks to its roomy 30-liter main compartment, separate laptop compartment and great organizer compartment in the front that can hold a tablet, pens, keys and more. We recommend the North Face Recon for students and commuters who need a reliable 30L backpack for school or work.

Able Carry Max Backpack

Packed with great features for both daily carry and travel, the Able Carry Max backpack was built from the ground up for smart carry. Some of our favorite features include a hidden water bottle pocket, tech compartment and a massive clamshell 30 liter main compartment.

Patagonia Refugio 30L Backpack

The Patagonia Refugio is recommended to anyone who wants one bag to rule them all. The 30 liter Refugio can be used for commuting, school, travel and even hiking thanks to Patagonia’s versatile design that includes features like elastic bungee for attaching oversized items and a removable laptop sleeve.

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The North Face Borealis vs Jester (2021) - What’s the Difference?

The North Face Borealis and Jester are two popular choices if you are looking for a reliable backpack for school, travel or even outdoor activities. But which one is the better buy? In this updated Borealis vs Jester backpack comparison we dive deep and explore the differences.

This comparison is of the 2021 versions of both the Jester and Borealis. For an up to date comparison, visit our new North Face Borealis vs Jester article. The North Face is known for updating their backpack designs every so often and specific details may be different if you wish to compare older versions of either backpack.

Quick Specs

	The North Face Borealis	The North Face Jester
Volume	28 Liters (Mens) 27 Liters (Womens)	27.5 Liters (Mens) 27 Liters (Womens)
Material	Nylon, Nylon Ripstop, Polyester	Recycled Polyester
Laptop Storage	Laptop compartment (up to 15.6" laptop)	Laptop sleeve (up to 14" laptop)
Tablet Pocket	Yes	No
Fleece Lined Pocket	Yes	No
Compression Straps	Yes	No
Sternum Strap	Yes	Yes
Waist Belt	Yes	No
Price	Check the latest price on Amazon	Check the latest price on Amazon

Video Review

North Face Borealis vs Jester Side-by-Side

Men’s Borealis (left), Women’s Borealis (center) and Women’s Jester (right)

Men’s vs Women’s North Face Backpacks

For this comparison we have both the men’s and women’s versions of the Borealis and the women’s version of the Jester. The differences between the men’s and women’s version of the Jester and Borealis are mostly with the dimensions and gender-specific back panels and shoulder straps.

Mens Borealis (left) vs Womens Borealis (right)

On the Borealis, the men’s version has a wider elastic bungee system on the front. And for both the Borealis and Jester the shoulder straps and back panels are different.  The men’s versions can accommodate wider shoulders and a longer torso while the women’s version is better suited for narrow shoulders and a shorter torso.

Rest assured that all of the pockets and compartments are the same on both the men’s and women’s versions of the Borealis and Jester.

Carrying Capacity and Size

The North Face Borealis has an internal main compartment capacity of 28 liters for the men’s version and 27 liters for the women’s version while the Jester runs a bit smaller at 27.5 liters for the men’s version and 27 liters for the women’s version.

Although both the Jester and Borealis have a similar main compartment capacity, the Borealis is the larger of the two and has a bigger footprint. You can expect the Borealis to be wider and stick out more from the bottom when worn. In comparison, the Jester offers a slimmer fit that doesn’t stick out as much.

Materials and Construction Comparison

Materials and overall construction is where the Borealis and Jester really start to part ways. For their newest Jester design, the North Face has gone with recycled polyester.

Recycled polyester is a very lightweight material with very little stretch. It also feels very thin when handled.

The North Face Borealis sticks with their usual mix of nylon, nylon ripstop and polyester materials. When compared to recycled polyester, Nylon is much thicker and robust. It has a lot more weight to it and just feels tougher - like it can take a beating and not scratch or puncture as easily.

Another difference between the Borealis and Jester are the zippers used in each respective bag. The Borealis goes with YKK zippers while the Jester uses cheaper SBS zippers. This is one of the ways North Face is able to cut down the cost of the Jester when compared to the brand’s more expensive offerings.

The last difference in materials is the hardware used in each respective backpack. The North Face Borealis is filled with hefty plastic hardware for the sternum strap, waist belt and side compression straps while the Jester uses much less substantial hardware and is missing a lot of key features like the waist belt and side compression straps.

This leads us to the weight of each of these backpacks. The heavier nylon fabric plus the better hardware and more robust back panel all add to the weight of the Borealis making it almost a pound heavier.

Pockets and Compartments

Laptop Compartment

A major difference between the Borealis and Jester is the location of the laptop storage. The North Face Jester includes a padded laptop sleeve inside the main compartment that can accommodate a laptop up to 14-inches. We found that a 15.6” laptop is too large to fit inside the Jester laptop sleeve.

The Borealis includes a separate laptop compartment that can fit a laptop up to 15.6-inches with a little wiggle room to spare. Both the laptop sleeve in the Jester and laptop compartment in the Borealis feature false-bottoms. This means that there is a space between the bottom of the laptop and the bottom of the bag to prevent damage from drops.

Opening for a hydration bladder on the North Face Borealis

A low-key feature of the Borealis is the ability to turn the laptop compartment into a hydration pocket. If you look closely here at the top of the laptop compartment on the Borealis - you’ll see a small velcro hook with a small opening right above it. This is for attaching a hydration bladder. So if you ever want to go hiking you can attach a hydration bladder and port it to the outside of the bag. The Jester is missing this feature altogether.

Front Pockets

The Borealis includes a fleece-lined pocket on the front of the backpack to hold items like sunglasses or a phone. Unfortunately, the Jester is missing this pocket altogether.

Both the Jester and Borealis feature a front organizer compartment with slip pockets for smaller items. The front organizer compartment on the Borealis features a tablet sleeve, zippered pocket with a key leash and a fleece lined pocket for a phone.

The front organizer compartment on the Jester is missing the tablet pocket and fleece lined phone pocket but keeps the large zippered pocket with a key leash. The slip pockets for small items are made of mesh. It’s safe to say that this entire compartment is definitely a downgrade form the one found on the Borealis.

Side Water Bottle Pockets

Another difference are with the side water bottle pockets. The side pockets on the Jester are made of the same mesh as the front organizer compartment. This mesh has very little stretch and feels much cheaper than the material used on the Borealis.

The side pockets on the Borealis are made of a much nicer material. It’s soft to the touch and super stretchy. Both pockets can fit a 32oz water bottle just fine. But since the side pockets on the Borealis are stretchier they are much easier to use - especially when the backpack is full.

Elastic Bungee System

The Jester and men’s and women’s Borealis all feature different bungee system designs. The main difference between the Jester and Borealis bungee systems is that the Jester has less bungee cord than both versions of the Borealis. This means that items are less secure when cinched down.

Although narrower, the women’s Borealis still includes more elastic bungee and items feel much more secure when cinched down.

Where the Jester Wins

Many North Face backpacks notoriously have curved bottoms that don’t allow you to sit the bag down on the ground. Unfortunately this is the case for some of the most popular backpacks such as the Borealis, Recon and Surge.

One huge advantage that the North Face Jester has is that it includes a flat bottom. This means you can place the backpack down and it will actually stand in place. 

Comfort and Fit

Since both backpacks use The North Face’s Flex Vent Suspension system for their shoulder straps and back panels both backpack feel about the same when worn. The biggest difference you’ll notice is with the materials used.

The Borealis features a breathable mesh material throughout their back panel and shoulder straps while the Jester uses a less breathable fabric.

Which Backpack Should You Buy?

The North Face Borealis

Buy on Amazon

The North Face Jester

Buy on Amazon

Choose the North Face Jester if… you want a lightweight yet reliable backpack on a budget. The Jester is good for anyone who wants a basic North Face backpack without the higher price tag. The flat bottom is also a huge plus when it comes to daily carry. 

Choose the North Face Borealis if… you want the full North Face backpack experience with better materials, fleece lined pockets and a separate laptop compartment. The inclusion of the removable waist belt and side compression straps also allow for more control of how you carry which can come in handy when the backpack is full.

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19 Best Backpacks with Water Bottle Pockets - Tested and Reviewed!

Let’s get real here - most backpacks have water bottle pockets. So why did we even bother writing this buying guide? The truth is that a lot of water bottle pockets just aren’t that great. And for those serious about staying hydrated this can mean trouble when you have no secure place to store something as simple as a water bottle.

In this buying guide we help you find the best backpack with a water bottle pocket that actually gets the job done. This means no flimsy mesh pockets and no tiny pockets that can barely hold your bottle. A good backpack with a water bottle holder should secure your bottle in place and also be roomy enough for various size bottles.

We have tested a lot of these backpacks ourselves and can confirm they are legit. The others have a great reputation for keeping water bottles secure. Either way, if you are looking for a backpack with a water bottle holder then you are in the right place!

Types of Backpacks with Water Bottle Pockets

This backpack buying guide is split into two main lists.

• Best backpacks with water bottle holders

• Backpacks with hidden water bottle pockets
  

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 stow away with magnets or zippers so that they aren’t in the way when in use. We like these the best for protecting our drinking bottles from nasties.

Best Backpacks with Water Bottle Holders

Topo Designs Rover Pack

Topo is one of those backpack brands that just understands a well designed water bottle pocket. It’s such a simple design feature but so many other brands get it wrong. With the Rover Pack, Topo offers a deep gusseted water bottle holder on each side of the backpack. These pockets expand out and can accommodate larger bottles but they will compress down on smaller bottles to keep them in place as you move around. 

See the Topo Designs Rover Pack in action

Pictured above: The Rover Pack with a 32oz Nalgene Bottle and 17oz stainless steel water bottle

Made for both outdoor hikes and everyday use, the Topo Designs Rover Pack really is the bag that can do it all. It has plenty of organizer pockets, an internal laptop sleeve and comes in a ton of different colors. It’s these features and more that makes the Topo Rover Pack a favorite water resistant backpack for college.

The side water bottle pockets on the Rover Pack are made of the same nylon material as the bottom of the bag but features an elastic band that allows the pocket to accommodate most size water bottles. We found that the pockets on the Rover Pack can fit up to 32 oz water bottles.

The North Face Recon

If you are looking for a 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. It’s unlike other flimsy mesh bottle pockets and the high quality materials really make a big difference.

See The North Face Recon in action

The North Face Recon is one of our favorite backpacks from The North Face thanks to its amazing 15” laptop compartment, fleece lined pockets and roomy 30-liter main compartment. If you are looking for a great backpack with lots of pockets then we definitely recommend checking out the Recon.

Pictured above: The North Face Recon backpack with a 24 ounce and 32 ounce bottle inside its two side water bottle pockets.

The water bottle pockets on the North Face Recon are made of rugged water resistant nylon with a stretchy mesh section that allows the pocket to expand and contrast as needed. We found that you can fit 1-liter and 32oz water bottles in these pockets with ease. The mesh snaps the pocket back into place and you can cinch down each side pocket with the compression straps to keep a low profile when not in use.

Stubble & Co. The Backpack

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 even a bottle of wine without worry of items slipping out when on the move. When not in use these water bottle pockets blend into the side of the backpack for an attractive profile.

The Backpack is ideal for daily carry in the city or as a companion for outdoor adventures thanks to its waterproof canvas construction, roomy 21 liter capacity and secure padded laptop sleeve. And since The Backpack is available in a few different color options you’ll be sure to find one you love!

Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack

Buy on Amazon

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is a workout 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 big bottles. This backpack comes in over a dozen colors and designs so you are sure to find one you like.

King Kong PLUS Backpack

The PLUS by King Kong is a workout backpack that has some serious features for both the gym and daily carry. What sets this backpack apart from most others is that the water bottle pockets are massive! You can hold big shaker bottles, tumblers and extra large water bottles here with no trouble. The pockets themselves are gusseted with elastic to keep the bottles in place and they are also very deep.

We recommend the King Kong PLUS to anyone looking for a great gym backpack with a shoe compartment that can also be used for work or travel thanks to it’s clamshell main compartment and laptop sleeve.

Read more about the King Kong PLUS26

Made for gym enthusiasts who need to lug around water and shakes, King Kong offers oversized water bottle holders in the PLUS26. We found that a large 32 oz Nalgene water bottle swam inside the water bottle pockets. This is great news for those who have larger bottles and need a secure place to store them.

The side pockets are held in place by an elastic strap that snaps back into place when not in use for a low profile.

Patagonia Refugio

The Patagonia Refugio is a daily backpack that offers large stretchy water bottle pockets on each side. In addition to the mesh water bottle pockets, the bag’s compression straps also act as holders to strap in the bottles so that they don’t fall out you are on the move.

We highly recommend the Refugio to anyone looking for a reliable backpack for daily use or travel for its 26 liter interior that is roomy enough to pack for a short trip and or a busy day at work or school.

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.

Osprey Quasar Backpack

Osprey’s water bottle pockets are some of favorites thanks to their stretchy mesh construction that can accommodate larger bottles and tumblers. The Quasar features a water bottle holder on each side that snaps into place and stays out of the way when not in use.

Designed as backpack for daily carry, the Quasar is packed with awesome features like a dedicated laptop sleeve and a quick-access organizer compartments for small items.

Jansport Superbreak Plus

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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.

Gregory Resin Backpack

The Gregory Resin is a backpack designed to be as versatile as you are. In addition to having an amazing array of daily carry and travel-friendly features, the Resin even includes a weather-resistant design making it perfect for outdoor adventures.

Each Resin Pack includes a stretch mesh side pocket that compresses the bottle to the bag. This means you can carry either slim and large bottles without worry of slippage. If you are on the hunt for a thoughtfully-designed backpack with water bottle holder then we highly recommend giving the Gregory Resin Pack a closer look.

The North Face Surge

The North Face Surge is 31-liter backpack made for those who want one bag to rule them all. In addition to lots of clever pockets, the main compartment is large enough to pack for an entire school day or a weekend trip. As far as water bottle holders go, this backpack features two generous stretchy side pockets that do an amazing job at holding your bottles in place as you go from point A to B. 

The North Face offers the Surge backpack in both men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit.

See The North Face Surge in action

Pictured above: The North Face Recon with a 32oz Nalgene bottle

The water bottle pockets on the North Face Surge backpack are made of a protective water resistant material that keeps your bottle protected from bumps and drops. The backside of each pocket features an incredibly stretchy mesh material that makes accommodating larger bottles a breeze.

We found that large 32oz and 1 liter bottles can easily fit into these pockets. A huge benefit of this stretchy material is that very small and slim water bottles can also be held securely in place since the mesh hugs the bottle to keep it secure against the backpack.

The North Face Surge and Recon are actually pretty similar and it can be hard to choose between the two backpacks. If you want to see how the Surge compares to the Recon, make sure to check out our North Face Surge vs Recon hands-on comparison!

Herschel Classic XL

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Herschel backpacks are usually pretty solid but for some reason it doesn’t seem like the brand is a big fan of water bottle pockets. Some of their best selling bags are suspiciously missing a place to store your drinks. If you like the Herschel Classic but can’t live without a water bottle holder then make sure to go with the Herschel Classic XL. This version of the Herschel Classic is one of the few Herschel backpacks with water bottle holders and it’s a great sweet spot between the backpack you want and the backpack you need.

REI Co-op Rucksack Recycled Daypack

Made of tough recycled ripstop nylon with a water resistant finish, REI Rucksack Recycled Daypack offers the swiss army knife of backpacks for daily commutes, short hikes and busy travels. Pockets for a laptop, smaller items and special security pockets make this daypack ideal for whatever life throws at it.

The side water bottle pockets are also made of recycled nylon but include a strip of elastic mesh that can hold up to a 40oz Hydroflask. These deep pockets do an excellent job at keeping your water bottles in place for ease of mind when on the move.

The REI Co-op Rucksack Recycled Daypack is available in a standard 28 liter size and smaller and larger sizes. They also come in separate men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit.

Nomatic Backpack

The Nomatic Backpack is a daily bag for those serious about tech protection and organization. In fact, its 15-inch laptop sleeve and separate large tablet sleeve also makes it one of our favorite dual laptop backpacks.

What makes this backpack special is it’s dozens of pockets throughout the bag including two discreet side pockets that are held against the backpack with magnets. Once undone, they reveal a mesh water bottle pocket we found can securely hold a larger 32 ounce bottle. 

See the Nomatic Backpack in action

Pictured above: The Nomatic Backpack’s magnetic water bottle holder with a 32oz Nalgene bottle inside.

Looks can be deceiving with the Nomatic backpack. A minimalist exterior doesn’t exactly prepare you for the flurry of awesome pockets that meet you once inside the pack.

The same can be said about the Nomatic’s two exterior water bottle holders. These pockets look pretty small but we were surprised to discover that they can actually hold up to a 32 ounce Nalgene bottle as shown in the photo. The bottles in these pockets are held firmly in place thanks to the mesh and stretchy elastic that hug the bottle.

Backpacks with Hidden Water Bottle Pockets

Day Owl Backpack

The Day Owl features eco-friendly and recycled materials as well as an innovative design to bring you a stylish backpack for daily carry and travel. In fact, Day Owl’s commitment to quality and design is why it's one of our favorite recycled backpacks. 

The Day Owl features an internal side water bottle pocket that is completely hidden from the outside, leaving the bag’s profile clean and minimal even when it’s packed full. This pocket is even lined with a spill-proof material to prevent accidental leaks.

• Read More about the Day Owl backapck

  The water bottle compartment on the Day Owl is on the slimmer side which means you will have a hard time fitting in large diameter bottles such as a 32 oz Nalgene bottle. But we did find that this entire compartment is very tall and can fit taller slim water bottles or even an entire wine bottle! Both the Smaller and Larger versions of the Day Owl have the same size water bottle compartment.

  One of the features we like about this pocket is that it is lined with water-repellent neoprene. This means that the compartment itself is entirely leakproof in case of an accidental spill. Not only does this give you some extra peace-of-mind but it can save you a ton of heartache if an accidental spill were to happen.

  To learn more make sure to check out our full in-depth Day Owl backpack review.

Knack Pack Expandable Backpack

The Knack Pack is an expandable everyday and travel pack for those who want one bag to rule them all. This backpack has a 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 it allows you to store your bottle discreetly when you are on the move. The Knack Pack also comes in 3 sizes: Small, Medium and Large so you can find one that fits just right.

See the Knack Pack in action

We have tested the Knack Pack extensively and are thoroughly impressed with its great quality and features. The zippers feel robust and smooth and the various sneaky pockets throughout the bag made the Knack Pack great to use as a secure travel backpack or urban daybag.

Pictured above: The Knack Pack Series 1 backpack with a 24 ounce bottle inside the hidden water bottle pocket.

The hidden water bottle pocket on the side of the Knack Pack can comfortably store a 24oz (.62 liter) Hydro Flask and other tall and slim bottles. Because this is a closed pocket, large diameter 1 liter or 32 oz bottles will not fit this pocket as you will have trouble zipping up the pocket with a larger bottle inside.

Able Carry Daily Backpack

The Able Carry Daily is a lightweight daypack for those who are serious about organization of tech and daily essentials. The Daily Backpack is equipped with a 15-inch laptop sleeve and plenty of internal pockets for organization - all housed inside a minimalist outer design. This backpack forgoes a traditional water bottle holder for a roomy front pocket that can store large water bottles, giving you a smart hidden water bottle pocket that keeps the outside of the bag looking sleek.

Learn more about the Able Carry Daily

The front compartment on the Able Carry Daily is one large open pocket that can store even extra larger water bottles. We found our 1-liter and 32-ounce water bottles fit inside with room to spare. Because of its design, the water bottles are wedged between the outer fabric and the main compartment so there isn’t a lot of movement once you have the backpack on.

Able Carry Max

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 backpack to rule them all. 

One of coolest features on the Able Carry Max is its internal side water bottle pocket that stays completely hidden, leaving the bag’s profile clean and minimal even when packed full. 

Read more about the Able Carry Max

The water bottle compartment on the Able Carry Max is roomy enough to fit larger diameter bottles such as a 32 oz Nalgene bottle. This larger water bottle compartment comes in handy on long days on the move where hydration is a must. 

Along with an internal water bottle pocket, the Able Carry Max is chock full of clever features that make a slam dunk for one-bag enthusiasts. A large packing compartment allows for packing for a weekend trip while the rear laptop compartment offers the organization you need for a busy work day thanks to its multitude of organizer pockets for chargers, cables and more! With 30-liters of packing room in all you really can’t lose with the Max’s great organization for work and play.

eBags Professional Slim

The eBags Professional Slim is one of our favorite work and travel backpacks thanks to its insane amount of organization compartments and clever pockets that allow you to have everything in its right place. This is one of those backpacks that we highly recommend to people who need a backpack with lots of pockets.

The single water bottle pocket is hidden with a zipper on the side of the backpack. The compact look of the water bottle pocket can be deceiving as we found that the stretchy elastic and mesh can accommodate even a larger diameter 32 oz Nalgene bottle.

Osprey Apogee 

Made for urban commutes and the occasional outdoor trek, the Osprey Apogee offers you a comfortable and stylish way to carry your daily gear. 

The Osprey Apogee ditches a traditional water bottle holder and for a smart side stretch pocket that allows you to hold the water bottle in place against the pack. This gives you a completely hidden water bottle pocket that blends into the pack. Not only does this pocket shield your drinking bottle from dirt and debris but gives you a cleaner look overall when carrying your coffee or water bottles. 

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15 Best Recycled Backpacks - Some brands will surprise you!

When picking out a new backpack, it’s important to be conscious of whether our purchases are making a positive impact on our environment. Choosing a recycled backpack means less waste while also encouraging sustainable manufacturing and supporting initiatives that really make a difference. It’s a little thing we can do to make a big difference over time!

In this buying guide we list our favorite backpacks that made from recycled materials and list a few of our favorite eco-friendly brands. And with more brands now offering backpacks made from recycled materials than ever before, some bags on this list may really surprise you!

Best Recycled Backpacks

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

Everlane has really made a commitment to sustainability with their ReNew collection of garments and accessories. The ReNew Transit backpack is a recycled backpack made from plastic bottles which would have otherwise ended up in landfills. Along with being an ethically sourced recycled backpack, the ReNew Transit Backpack is also stylish and incredibly functional. Designed to be used as both a travel backpack and a daily driver, the ReNew Transit is perfect for busy people who want to help make a difference. For a more details make sure to check out our Everlane ReNew Transit backpack review.

• Materials: 100% recycled polyester from recycled bottles

Got Bag Daypack

Got Bag is a brand that offers stylish backpacks made from recycled plastic in a mission to clean up our oceans and provide new pathways to sustainability. 

The Daypack is a compact backpack for work and play that gives you the versatility you need while looking your best. The 13-inch padded sleeve and sleek silhouette will make it a go-to bag for the workweek while a water resistant construction gives you the confidence you need for weekend adventures outside. And with multiple fun colors to choose from you can’t go wrong with finding a Daypack that matches your look!

• Materials: Made from Ocean Impact Plastic - recycled plastic from ocean waste.

Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack

In 2020 Monarc set out to design the world’s most eco-friendly 2-in-1 duffel backpack and it’s safe to say that they did exactly that with their flagship Settra Duffel Backpack. Each bag is made from 50 recycled bottles and the brand has made it a mission to offer a premium sustainable product that is as functional as it is stylish.

You can purchase the Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack by itself or take advantage of the Settra Series bundle that includes modular inserts for tech, photography and travel. This allows the Settra to adapt to life’s adventures without a hitch.

• Materials: Recycled fabric. Each bag is made from 50 recycled bottles

Day Owl Backpack

Day Owl is a brand who’s mission is to offer a stylish backpack using the best sustainably sourced materials and ethical labor practices. The result is a functional backpack for work, travel and play that is made of 100% post-consumer plastic bottles and ethically sourced zippers and metal. We did an entire Day Owl review that is worth checking out if you would like to learn more about all of its awesome features.

• Materials: First Mile wax canvas made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, recycled polyester lining and trim. Ethically sourced zippers.

Tentree Mobius Backpack

When it comes to backpacks made from recycled materials, few brands are as committed to social responsibility as Tentree. The Mobius backpack is special thanks to its multi-size design that allows you to compress it down to a smaller size for daily wear or expand it all the way up to 35 liters when you need more room. This makes the Mobius perfect as a daily, outdoor or travel backpack! Every material in backpack’s construction comes from sustainable sources - from the recycled polyester main body to the foam padding and zippers.

• Materials: Made of REPREVE Recycled Polyester. Each backpack uses 31 recycled plastic bottles. Hardware and trim are made of recycled post-industrial factory waste.

Targus Cyprus Slim EcoSmart Backpack

Targus is a brand known for it’s innovative tech accessories and with their EcoSmart collection the brand has decided to offer backpacks made from recycled materials for a more eco-friendly approach to production. 

The Targus Cypress Slim backpack is stylish tech backpack designed from the ground up for daily carry of essentials like a laptop, tablet and accessories. Its generous 17-liter main compartment is perfect for busy days while still keeping the backpack light weight and streamlined.

• Materials: Fabric used in each backpack is woven from 20 recycled water bottles

Osprey Porter Travel Backpack

The Osprey Porter is a travel backpack for anyone who is serious about comfort, ease-of-use and style. The Porter comes in a few different sizes; 30 liters, 46 liters and 65 liters to accommodate just about any trip! Fans of Osprey will love that the Porter is also a recycled travel bag thanks to Osprey’s dedication to using only bluesign®-approved recycled materials throughout the line.

• Materials:  bluesign®-approved Recycled Polyester and Nylon Packcloth

North Face Jester

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The North Face Jester is one of The North Face’s most popular backpack designs and it’s easy to see why! This versatile backpack is perfect for short trips, daily carry or weekends out on the trail. With their newest Jester update, The North Face has decided to switch to recycled materials for its construction giving the Jester a more sustainable design.

• Materials: Recycled 600D Polyester

Patagonia Refugio

The Patagonia Refugio is one our favorite backpacks for its versatility and functionality. Not only does it make a great daily backpack but it also packs a punch as a travel bag too! The Patagonia Refugio is eco-friendly thanks to its recycled material construction and PFC-free water resistant DWR finish. If you are looking for a well-made and highly functional recycled backpack then the Patagonia Refugio won’t disappoint!

• Materials: 100% Recycled Polyester with PFC-free DWR finish

United By Blue Commuter

The United By Blue Commuter is a lightweight 15 liter backpack that is perfect for daily commutes and weekend adventures on the trail thanks to a rugged construction that can handle anything thrown its way! What we love most about the Commuter is that it’s made almost entirely of recycled materials - everything from the exterior fabrics to the mesh padding in the back panel is recycled! United By Blue has also made a commitment of only using ethical labor to manufacture their bags which is something we can get behind.

• Materials: Made from recycled plastic bottles with ethical labor

Pacsafe Cruise Anti-Theft Backpack

Pacsafe offers a small recycled materials backpack for those who want to keep things stylish but simple. The Cruise is large enough to carry important essentials while being small enough to avoid a bulky profile. The Cruise is also designed to be completely anti-theft, making it perfect for travel or city commuters. 

In recent years Pacsafe has really stepped up their sustainability efforts by offering more backpacks and bags made out of recycled plastic textiles. In fact, the brand’s goal is to have 74% of their products use recycled fabrics by 2021. Pacsafe already has a great line of bags that are already using recycled materials and we are excited to see what designs they add in the future!

• Materials: Polyester main body and lining made from recycled bottles

Fjallraven Vardag

The Fjallraven Vardag is a light and comfortable everyday pack made with a timeless design that won’t go out of style. This backpack is made of Fjallraven’s own G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S -  an incredibly durable and water resistant fabric that is made from recycled polyester and organic cotton. This fabric is not only sustainable but it also takes durability to a new level and gives you an incredibly tough backpack that will last the test of time. If your goal is to buy once and buy less, then the Fjallraven Vardag is one of the best recycled backpacks being offered today.

• Materials: G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S (recycled polyester and organic cotton)

Solo NY Re:Claim Backpack

Solo has committed themselves to sustainability with their new Re:cycled collection of recycled backpacks and bags. These backpacks are made of recycled water bottles that would have otherwise ended up in a landfill. With the Re:Claim Backpack, Solo offers a stylish laptop backpack for urban carry and weekend travel and it’s one of our favorites from the new collection.

• Materials: Recycled PET Polyester (from plastic bottles)

Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2

Designed as a camera, everyday and light travel bag - the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is a new take on carry for busy lifestyles. This backpack is best known for its innovative main compartment access that allows you to enter the inside from the sides or top of the backpack. When it comes to sustainability, Peak Design includes 100% recycled exterior fabric that is tough and weatherproof to protect your important gear.

• Materials: bluesign® approved 100% recycled weatherproof outer fabric

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack

The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack is a small daybag made for those on the move! Each Atom Tote is made with recycled fabrics and is coated with a DWR finish for unmatched weather resistance. This means you can take your Atom Tote Pack on your next hike or wear the pack for a quick trip to the market with peace of mind that your stuff will stay nice and dry in the rain!

• Materials: 100% Recycled Polyester With PFC-Free DWR Finish

Incase Commuter Backpack w/ BIONIC

The Incase Commuter Backpack w/ BIONIC is Incase’s first backpack made from recycled materials and we think the brand has hit the ball out of the park! This backpack has everything we have come to expect from the brand: unmatched laptop protection, great pockets for tech and a clean and minimalist design. Each bag is made from recovered plastic pollution found in marine and coastal environments. This means with each purchase you are supporting important environmental cleanup and recycling initiatives. 

• Materials: BIONIC Ripstop (each bag = 26 recovered plastic bottles)

Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Backpack

Pacsafe offers a cute recycled backpack with its Go Anti-Theft series. The Go Anti-Theft backpack offers the same security features that Pacsafe travel bags are known for but in a more compact everyday carry design. The Go features a 13” laptop sleeve, lots of great practical pockets and is available in fun color options. The best part? The Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Backpack is made from recycled materials! Each backpack is made from 21 recycled bottles that would have otherwise ended up in landfills.

• Materials: Recycled polyester made from recycled plastic bottles

Our Favorite Eco-Friendly Backpack Brands

GOT BAG

Got Bag is on a mission to produce and use less plastic while making a positive impact on ocean waste. This is done by collecting ocean plastic waste and recycling it into fabric used in their line of stylish backpacks and bags! With Got Bag, not only are you buying recycled but every purchase helps increase Got Bag’s ocean clean-up initiatives.

You can read more about Got Bag’s recycling initiative here.

Everlane

Everlane is best known for their transparent business model that puts stylish basics at direct-to-consumer prices. This also involves making sure that their clothing is made in ethical factories that promote fair wages and safe working environments.

In recent years Everlane has really stepped up to offer eco-friendly clothing and accessories with their ReNew Collection. This collection uses recycled plastic instead of virgin materials in everything from modern bags, stylish tops and cozy outerwear. You can learn more about the ReNew Collection here.

Monarc

From day one Monarc’s focus has been on offering sustainable products that divert plastic waste from oceans and landfills. Their flagship Settra bag is a recycled travel backpack and gym-duffel that uses fabric made from plastic bottles. If you are looking for a large recycled bag for travel, workouts and outdoor adventures then Monarc is definitely a brand you’ll want to check out.

Tentree

Tentree is a brand rooted in the belief that we all have a responsibility to protect and preserve the Earth we live in. The brand’s goal is to plant 1 Billion Trees by 2030 and they have already helped plant over 30 million trees in restored land across 8 countries. Talk about making a difference!

Their clothing and backpacks are not just ethically manufactured but all materials used are also eco-friendly and recycled. If you are looking for a backpack brand that takes environmentalism seriously, then Tentree is worth a closer look. Learn more about the Tentree initiative here. 

PAcsafe

Pacsafe is a brand known for making innovative and stylish anti-theft backpacks and bags for the urban commuter and adventurous traveler alike. Recently the brand has shifted their focus towards sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing to make sure each product they offer makes a measurable impact from start to finish.

Their new Econyl fabric turns ocean-bound nylon waste and plastic bottles into a durable textile. Pacsafe also donates 1% of every sale to turtle conservation projects through the Pacsafe Turtle Fun. Learn more about Pacsafe’s sustainability commitment here.

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North Face Recon vs Surge Comparison (2021 Version) - What's the difference?

If you are on the hunt for a versatile backpack for work, school or travel then you may have already considered the North Face Recon and North Face Surge. But what’s the difference between the two?

In this North Face Recon vs Surge backpack comparison we will explore the differences so you can choose the best backpack for your needs.

If you are interested in other North Face backpacks make sure to check out our other comparisons:

• The North Face Recon vs Borealis

• The North Face Borealis vs Jester

Note: The North Face is known for updating their backpack designs every so often. This comparison is of the 2019-2020 versions of both the North Face Recon and Surge. 

Quick Specs

	The North Face Recon	The North Face Surge
Volume	30 Liters	31 Liters
Material	600D Polyester 500D Nylon Cordura Nylon Ripstop	600D Polyester 500D Nylon Cordura Nylon Ripstop
Laptop Sleeve	Up to 15" laptop	Up to 15" laptop
Weight	2lbs 7.7oz	3lbs 2.8oz
Front Storage	Stash pocket	Two vertical zippered pockets
Price	Check the latest price on Amazon	Check the latest price on Amazon

Video Review

Mens vs Womens North Face Backpacks

The Recon and Surge backpacks used for this comparison are the women’s versions. If you are looking to purchase a men’s North Face backpack please note that 99% of this comparison will still apply.

The main differences between the men’s and women’s versions are as follows:

• Men’s North Face backpacks have larger back panels and wider shoulder straps to accommodate broader shoulders. This is the biggest difference.

• The men’s versions will weigh slightly more than the women’s versions. For example, the Women’s Surge weighs 3lbs 2.1 oz while the Men’s Surge weighs 3lbs 2.8 oz.

• Both the men’s and women’s version of the Recon are 30 liters and both versions of the Surge are 31 liters.

• All pockets and compartments are exactly the same in both the men’s and women’s version.

North Face Recon vs Surge Side-By-Side

Carrying Capacity and Size

On paper there doesn’t seem to be much of a difference in size between the Recon (30 liters) and Surge (31 liters) but side-by-side you can see that the Surge is the larger of the two.

The larger profile on the Surge is due to its slightly larger main compartment, larger laptop compartment, and two front pockets that give the Surge an overall larger footprint when compared to the Recon.

Pockets and Compartments

Where these two backpacks differ the most is in their choice of pockets and compartments.

Let’s start with the front-facing pockets.

The North Face Recon has an open stash pocket for quick access to items. The pocket itself isn’t very large - so oversized items like a yoga mat or a pair of sneakers will not fit but it works great for quickly putting away items like a large pair of headphones or a bike lock. The stash pocket on Recon is about 9.5-inches deep.

The North Face Surge has a completely different front design and features two vertical zippered pockets. These pockets overlap each other so that one is on top of the other. This means that you can store items in both pockets simultaneously.

The pocket on the left is lined with fleece and measures to about 7.5-inches wide (horizontally) at it’s widest point. The right side pocket is not lined with fleece but it is the larger pocket coming in at 9-inches at it’s widest point.

Another difference that the Surge features is a front grab handle. This handle is great on travel days because it allows the Surge to be used as a carry on backpack since it’s easy to grab from an overhead compartment. This handle also comes in handy when grabbing your backpack from the trunk of a car.

The similarities between the North Face Recon and Surge start at the pockets on the top of the backpack. Both bags feature a fleece-lined pocket for things like sunglasses or a phone.

Behind the fleece lined pocket, both backpacks feature an organizer compartment with lots of pockets for pens, phones and other small items.

The main difference between the Recon and Surge organizer compartments is that the Recon features a tablet pocket in this compartment and the Surge does not. The tablet pocket on the Surge can easily fit an 11-inch iPad Pro.

The North Face Recon has a tablet pocket on the front and the Surge does not

On the Surge - this entire organizer compartment is actually smaller than the one the Recon and I found that a regular sized iPad can just about fit on its side. But is there is no tablet protection so store a tablet here at your own risk.

Now let’s take a closer look at the main compartments.

The Recon features one large open 30-liter main compartment while the Surge features a 31-liter main compartment with a slim zip pocket against it’s back. This is a smaller pocket that is great for stashing smaller items you want to keep safe like a wallet, phone or other valuables.

Recon vs Surge Laptop Compartment

Both the Recon and Surge have robust suspended 15-inch laptop compartments that do a great job at keeping your laptop safe. Where they differ is in overall size.

Much like The North Face Borealis, the North Face Recon features a single padded laptop compartment while the North Face Surge offers a larger divided compartment with a slip pocket.

The laptop compartment on the Surge has a slip pocket on the divider itself that can comfortably fit an 11-inch iPad Pro. So instead storing your tablet on the front of the bag like the Recon, you can instead keep you tablet in the rear compartment with your laptop. This divider pocket can also comfortably store your laptop charger and cables.

The laptop compartment on the Surge is large enough for two laptops if needed.

The other side of the laptop divider can fit anything you need to keep flat like paperwork, a binder or large textbook. We were surprised to find that the Surge can also fit an additional laptop in this compartment which is great for anyone looking for dual laptop backpack.

We were able to comfortably fit both a 13” Macbook Pro and a 15.6” Acer PC laptop inside the Surge’s laptop compartment.

Turn your Recon into a hiking backpack with its secret hydration bladder loop

Another small yet important difference between the Recon and Surge is that the Recon includes a velcro loop attachment for a hydration bladder and the Surge does not. This allows you to turn the Recon’s laptop compartment into a hydration pocket if you were to ever go hiking.

Comfort and Fit details

When it comes to comfort and fit features there is very little difference between the Recon and Surge in terms of how they feel when worn. The only real difference is that the Surge is slightly heavier since it’s the larger backpack of the two.

But both the Surge and Recon feature the same Flex Vent back panels and we can honestly say both bags feel the same against your back.

They also feature the same adjustable sternum strap and removable waist belt.

Where these backpacks do differ slightly is in the top of the shoulder straps. The North Face Recon features Flexvent shoulder straps with cutouts on the foam to help with airflow. The North Face Surge has solid foam shoulder straps.

Which Backpack is Better?

The North Face Recon

The North Face Surge

Choose the North Face Recon if… you want a reliable backpack that can be used for work, school or the occasional outdoor adventure. Although smaller than the Surge, it still has plenty of room in its large 30-liter main compartment. We also like the front organizer compartment a lot better on the Recon since it includes a tablet pocket and is larger overall. And let’s not forget about the hidden hydration bladder loop that can turn the laptop compartment into a hydration pocket if you ever want to take the Recon on a hike.

Choose the North Face Surge if… you need a workhorse that can be used for school, work or even travel. The North Face Surge also make an incredible tech backpack thanks to its larger laptop compartment, multiple fleece lined pockets and great organization. The Surge’s 31-liter main compartment and front grab handle also make it great for those who need a versatile backpack that can also be used for travel.

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Dual laptop backpack? Best backpacks for two laptop carry

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.

Nomatic Backpack

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The North Face Surge

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Yorepek Laptop Backpack

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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

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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

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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

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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. 

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Ultimate Backpack Size Guide - What Size Backpack Do I Need?

If you are planning on buying a backpack online then you know that picking the right size can get confusing. Without the backpack in front you it’s hard to tell if a backpack will be too big or too small.

In this visual backpack size guide we are going to go over standard backpack sizes and compare the difference in fit and capacity.

Our goal is to help you get a ballpark reading of what can fit inside each backpack size so you can pick a new backpacks with confidence even you are shopping online.

Table of Contents

• Backpack Capacity Explained
• Small Backpacks (Under 19L)
• • What fits inside a 13L Backpack?
• • What fits inside a 16L Backpack?
• Medium Backpacks (20-29L)
• • What fits inside a 20L Backpack?
• • What fits inside a 25L Backpack?
• Large Backpacks (30-39L)
• • What fits inside a 30L Backpack?
• • What fits inside a 35L Backpack?
• What Else You Should Know

Video Guide

Backpack Capacity Explained

Backpack capacity is usually measured in either cubic inches (in³) or liters (L). 

Although many backpack manufacturers measure their volume in cubic inches we are going to focus on liters because it is more common.

For the sake of simplicity we like to divide backpacks into simpler size categories of Small, Medium and Large. Note that these categories are just how we categorize backpacks here on Backpackies and are no way a universal way of determining backpack size.

• Small Backpacks (Under 19L)

• Medium Backpacks (20-29L)

• Large Backpacks (30-39L)

Backpacks over 40L

In this guide we will only cover backpacks up to 39 liters. This is because backpacks over 40 liters are usually too large to comfortably use as a daily backpack for school, work or commuting.

Backpacks over 40 liters are best reserved for travel, hiking or backpacking where loading multiple days worth of gear is necessary.

For daypacks and everyday carry backpacks it is best stick to a backpack under 39 liters.

Small Backpacks (Under 19L)

Backpacks under 19 liters are best used for:

• Essential daily carry (keys, water bottle, sunglasses and other small items)

• Tech carry (laptop, tablet and accessories)

• Travel day bags

Photo: 13L Able Carry Thirteen Daybag

What fits inside a 13L backpack?

• Large headphones

• Small book

• Sweater

• 1-inch binder

• Up to 13” laptop

Photo: 16L Day Owl Backpack

What fits inside a 16L backpack?

• Large headphones

• Small book

• Water bottle

• Sweater

• 2x 1-inch binders

• Up to 13” laptop

SMALL BACKPACKS: Limited Laptop Carry

Backpacks under 14 liters usually are sometimes too small to include a laptop sleeve or compartment for laptops larger than 13-inches. Many smaller backpacks may only include a tablet sleeve or no tech sleeve at all. Keep this in mind if you are looking to purchase a smaller backpack.

It’s not until the 15-19 liter range that you will start to see larger laptop sleeves for laptops up to 15-inches.

SMALL BACKPACKS: Essentials Only

Backpacks under 19 liters are considered “essentials only backpacks”

This means you will be limited to personal items or tech carry with little room for much else. We recommend backpacks under 19 liters to anyone who needs a simple work backpack for things like a laptop, water bottle and snacks. Or as a secondary personal item backpack for airline travel.

Smaller backpacks also make great tech backpacks for anyone who just needs to carry a laptop, tablet, chargers and cables in addition to a few extra personal items.

The key takeaway with backpacks 19 liters and under is compromise. You may be able to pack just enough for an overnight stay or maybe a few large books and binders, but you won’t have the room for both at the same time.

Medium Backpacks  (20-29L)

Backpacks 20-29L are best used for:

• School and college (laptop, multiple books and notebooks)

• Camera backpacks (DSLR camera, lenses and accessories)

• Work and gym backpacks (Work items + change of clothes)

Photo: 20L GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack

What fits inside a 20L backpack?

• Large headphones

• Small book

• 2x hoodies or sweaters

• Water bottle

• 2x 1-inch binders

• Up to 15” laptop

Photo: 25L Herschel Little America (Amazon)

What fits inside a 25L backpack?

• Large headphones

• Water bottle

• Small book

• 2x hoodies or sweaters

• DSLR camera insert

• 2x 1-inch binders

• Up to 15” laptop

Medium Backpacks: The Jack of all Trades

Medium size backpacks between 20-29 liters can be considered the Goldilocks of backpacks for most people. Not too small yet not too large - most everyday carry backpacks fall into the medium size category. 

Backpacks between 20 liters and 29 liters make great backpacks for school, work and commuting thanks to their roomier main compartments. Here is where you’ll start to fit larger objects like camera gear, extra clothing and multiple large books.

Because medium size backpacks are larger in size, you will also start to see larger compartments and padded sleeves that can accommodate laptops up to 15 and 16 inches.

Large Backpacks (30-39L)

Backpacks 30-39L are best used for:

• Extra large school backpacks (multiple large textbooks)

• Travel backpacks (weekend and carry-on)

• Large laptops (17” and 18”)

Photo: 30L The North Face Recon (Amazon)

What fits inside a 30L backpack?

• Large headphones

• Water bottle

• Small book

• 2x hoodies or sweaters

• DSLR camera insert

• Large textbook

• 2x 1-inch binders

• Up to 15” Laptop

Photo: 35L Jansport Big Student Backpack (Amazon)

What fits inside a 35L backpack?

• Large headphones

• Pencil case or dopp kit

• Water bottle

• Pair of shoes

• 2x hoodies or sweaters

• Small book

• 2x 1-inch binders

• DSLR camera insert

• Large textbook

• Up to 15” laptop

Large Backpacks: Who needs a backpack this large?

Backpacks over 30 liters can be overkill for most people who just need a daily carry backpack for essential items. 

But we do recommend large backpacks for students who needs to carry an entire day’s worth of books, lunch and items for after school activities or sports. 

These backpacks also make great gym and work backpacks for anyone who needs to carry their daily work items plus a change of clothes and shoes.

One important thing to note is that backpacks over 30 liters are much larger in size so smaller people may have a hard time finding one that fits properly. Poorly designed shoulder straps and back panels may increase the chances that a backpack will feel uncomfortable on smaller bodies. If you are on the smaller side, it pays to choose a backpack that was designed with a women’s fit to help accommodate slim shoulders and shorter torsos.

Large Backpacks: Enter the Travel Backpack

The 30-39 liter range is where you’ll start to see a lot of carry on travel backpacks  - because this capacity is a sweet spot between having lots of packing room without being too large to carry.

Backpacks over 30 liters usually have enough room for multiple days worth of clothing and can even have main compartments large enough to fit bulkier items like shoes. 

Large Backpacks: XL Laptop Sleeves

At these larger sizes you can expect to find more options for extra large laptop storage. Because of their larger footprint, most of 18-inch laptop backpacks are in the 30-39 liter size range.

What Else You Should Know

Larger capacity = larger backpack

A basic rule of thumb is that the larger the capacity the larger the backpack will be. 

Backpack size will impact fit. While larger people will benefit from wearing a larger backpack, smaller people may want to stick with a smaller backpack size to accommodate slim shoulders and short torsos. This is one reason it is so common to see many women’s backpacks under 20 liters.

Backpack capacity is only part of the story

A backpack’s materials, shape and overall design will impact what fits inside just as much as its capacity number.

Example:

We tested two backpacks: the 16 liter Day Owl Backpack and the 19 liter Venque Amsteram 2.0.

Even though the Venque Amsterdam 2.0 technically has more capacity at 19 liters, it could fit just about the same stuff as the smaller 16 liter Day Owl Backpack. 

Why? Shape and materials.

The Day Owl features a clamshell backpack design and is made out of flexible waxed canvas material. This allows the backpack itself to flex allowing you to cram extra items inside the main compartment.

The Venque Amsterdam 2.0 is made out of ridged fabric that allows the backpack to keep its shape even when empty. The materials used on the Amsterdam 2.0 plus its top loading design makes the Venque Amsterdam less forgiving when filling the backpack up.

A backpack’s shape and materials are something to keep in mind when determining what can fit inside. Even if two backpacks have the same capacity that doesn’t mean they will fit exactly the same items.

This concludes our backpack size guide! If you want to learn more we encourage you to take a look at some of our other guides:

• 21 Types of Backpacks Visual Style Guide

• How to Find a Backpack that Fits

• Backpack vs Rucksack vs Daypack

• How to Choose a Backpack for Work

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North Face Jester vs Borealis - What's the difference?

Note: This comparison is of the 2019 versions of both the North Face Jester and Borealis. For a comparison of updated models please visit our newest Borealis vs Jester comparison.

The North Face Jester and Borealis are great choices if you are looking for a versatile daypack for daily use and travel. But what’s the difference? And is the Borealis worth the higher price?

Not long ago we did a North Face Recon vs Borealis comparison where we explored the critical differences between those two popular backpacks. Here we do a similar North Face Jester vs Borealis hands-on comparison and take a closer look at materials, pockets and more to find out which is the better choice.

Quick Specs

	The North Face Jester	The North Face Borealis
Dimensions	19.5" H x 13.5" W x 8" D	19.5" H x 14.5" W x 8" D
Volume	28 Liters	28 Liters (Mens) 27 Liters (Womens)
Material	Polyester	Nylon
Laptop Storage	15" laptop sleeve in main compartment	Seperate 15" laptop compartment
Tablet Pocket	No	Yes
Fleece Lined Pocket	No	Yes
Compression Straps	No	Yes
Sternum Strap	Yes	Yes
Waist Belt	No	Yes
Price	Check the latest price on Amazon	Check the latest price on Amazon

Video Review

Men’s vs Women’s North Face Backpacks

We used the women’s versions of both the Jester and Borealis for this backpack comparison. If you are looking to purchase a men’s North Face backpack please note this comparison will still apply.

Key differences between men’s and women’s North Face backpacks:

• Men’s North Face backpacks have larger back panels and wider shoulder straps to accommodate broader shoulders. This is the biggest difference.

• The men’s version of the North Face Borealis has a 28 liter carrying capacity while the women’s version is 27 liters. Both the men’s and women’s version of the Jester are 28 liters.

• The men’s version of the Borealis has a wider front elastic bungee system and includes daisy chains. The women’s Borealis does not include daisy chains.

• All pockets and compartments are exactly the same in both the men’s and women’s version.

North Face Jester vs Borealis Side-By-Side

Carrying Capacity and Size

Let’s begin by taking a closer look at the size and capacity of both the North Face Jester and Borealis. We were surprised to find that both backpacks are actually near identical in size despite the different measurements posted on the official North Face product pages. 

Both men’s versions of the backpack have an identical 28-liter carrying capacity (while the women’s Borealis has a smaller 27 liter capacity).

The measurements on the official North Face website aren’t always accurate so we went ahead and measured these two backpacks ourselves. Both the Jester and Borealis are near-identical in terms of measurements with the Borealis being slightly larger.

Materials and Construction Comparison

Although the materials used on each backpack depends on the color, the North Face Borealis uses a mix of nylon materials while the Jester uses polyester.

At first glance, you won’t see much of a difference between the two backpacks but upon closer inspection you’ll notice that the materials on the Borealis look and feel much nicer than the polyester used on the Jester. 

The North Face Jester’s use of polyester (left) vs Borealis’ use of nylon (right)

The difference between nylon and polyester are as follows:

• Nylon feels softer to the touch then polyester

• Nylon has greater stretchability while polyester is stiffer

• Both fabrics are water resistant, abrasion-resistant and and mildew-resistant

When it comes to these two North Face backpacks, you’ll notice that the Borealis has a more “premium feel” This is especially true with small construction differences such as a padded top handle, stretchy and soft side pockets and a softer nylon (when compared to polyester) used throughout the body.

SBS zippers (left) on the Jester vs YK zippers (right) on the Borealis

Another construction difference worth noting is that the Borealis uses YKK zippers while the Jester uses cheaper SBS zippers. YKK is a Japanese brand known for their smooth, durable and high quality zippers. While SBS is a newer Chinese zipper brand that has yet to establish a similar reputation. Many backpack brands use SBS zipper because they are cheaper yet still offer a good quality zipper.

Pocket and Compartment Comparison

Some of the biggest differences between the Jester and Borealis is with their pockets and compartments with the most striking difference being in the laptop storage.

The North Face Jester places its laptop storage in the form of a padded sleeve inside the main compartment while the Borealis features a separate padded laptop compartment that can be found against the back panel.

Jester vs Borealis: laptop storage dimensions

Both backpacks can accommodate a laptop up to 15-inches but the Borealis backpack compartment has more room since it spans the entire width and height of the backpack. The Borealis also has more depth than the Jester’s single sleeve and can accommodate a thicker laptop. 

Inside the North Face Borealis laptop compartment

A similarity that both the Jester and Borealis share is the front organizer compartment. Both backpacks include small slip pockets for things like pens, a phone and other small items. Where they differ however is that the Borealis includes a small fleece lined pocket for a phone or glasses while the Jester does not. 

The Borealis also has a larger slip pocket to accommodate a tablet. Although the Jester features a similar slip pocket, it does not provide enough room to store a full sized iPad. You might be able to get away with using this pocket to store a small 8-inch tablet but it’s clear that the Jester was not designed with tablet storage in mind.

The North Face Jester vs Borealis tablet storage. The Jester cannot accommodate a full size iPad.

On the front of the Borealis you will also find a separate fleece-lined pocket for quick access to a phone or sunglasses. Unfortunately the Jester does not include any fleece-lined pockets and phone or sunglasses storage will have to be regulated to another part of the backpack.

The last pockets to compare are the side pockets that can be used for water bottles or umbrellas. Here is where the difference between the Jester’s use of polyester and the Borealis’ use of nylon becomes very apparent.

The side pockets on the Borealis are made out of a soft and stretchy mesh that hugs whatever is placed inside the pocket. This makes holding water bottles very secure and when the side pockets are not in use they snap back into place to hug the backpack’s body.

The side pockets on the Jester are made out of a rougher polyester mesh that isn’t stretchy at all. The only thing keeping your water bottle in place is an elastic band on top. One con we can think of is that the Jester will have trouble accommodating larger water bottles since the mesh is one size and does not stretch.

When it comes to Jester vs Borealis pocket placement it’s a clear win for the Borealis. Not only does it include more carry options but small details like the fleece lined pockets and stretch nylon side pockets give the Borealis an edge as a daily use backpack.

Elastic Bungee System

One common feature between the Jester and Borealis is the elastic bungee system that allows you to attach oversized items to the front of each backpack. We found that the bungee system on the Jester to be smaller and more restrictive than the one on the Borealis.

This is due to the bungee on the Jester taking up less area space on the front of the backpack causing items to not be as secure when attached. The Jester also has a choke point at the bottom of the bungee that restricts the size of items you can attach to the bungee. The elastic bungee system on the Borealis is not only larger but much easier to use.

Jester vs Borealis: Similar Features

The North Face Jester and Borealis share a few key features that you have come to expect from North Face backpacks. One of these features is the FlexVent Suspension System and injection molded shoulder straps. Both backpacks share a similar shoulder straps design and feel about the same when worn.

The North Face also equips both the Jester and Borealis with padded mesh back panels. In the women’s versions you will see a different back panel design on the Borealis. But the men’s versions of the Borealis and Jester share the same back panel design.

Missing Features on the Jester

One comfort and fit feature that is missing on the Jester is the removable waist belt. Waist belts help redistribute the backpack’s weight from your shoulders to your hip and can come in handy when the backpack is full of heavy items.

Jester vs Borealis: Missing waist belt on the Jester

And finally, the Borealis includes side compression straps that are completely missing on the Jester. Compression straps are always a good feature to have as they allow you to control the depth of your backpack when it’s not full.

Missing compression straps on the North Face Jester

It’s the omission of small features like a waist belt and compression straps that can account for the Jester’s cheaper price. Along with the cheaper materials and zippers, it can be argued that the Jester nothing more than a stripped down Borealis. You get many of the same features but sacrifice the small details that are common in the North Face’s premium line of backpacks. 

Which Backpack is Better?

The North Face Jester

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The North Face Borealis

Buy on Amazon

Choose the North Face Jester if… you are on a budget and are looking for an entry level North Face backpack. The Jester is essentially a stripped down Borealis and you will get a lot of the same features for a lower price. They both have integrated elastic bungee systems, a great organizer compartment and are about the same size. If you can live without features like compression straps and a dedicated laptop compartment then the Borealis is a good choice.

Choose the North Face Borealis if… you want the premium backpack experience The North Face is known for. Premium materials and small features such as a hip belt, fleece lined pockets and a larger elastic bungee system will give you a better carry experience. And let’s not forget the separate laptop compartment that is perfect for anyone with an expensive laptop or a laptop that isn’t super thin. You’ll get more room and more laptop protection with the North Face Borealis.

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11 Best Daily Carry Backpacks with Lots of Pockets

When it comes to your daily backpack, organization is important. This is why we did the research to bring you 11 of our favorite backpacks with lots of pockets and compartments for everyday use.

While many backpacks with lots of compartments are reserved for travel or niche activities, we decided to focus on daily driver bags that you can use for work, school and commuting.

No one like digging through messy pockets, so we only list backpacks that have a special knack for keeping your stuff nice and organized. From massive organizer panels to special tech pockets, these backpacks are just what you need.

LEVEL8 Atlas Laptop Backpack

LEVEL8

The Ridge Commuter Backpack

Buy on The Ridge

Targus Newport Backpack

Buy on Amazon

11 Backpacks with Lots of Pockets

LEVEL8 Atlas Laptop Backpack

The LEVEL8 Titan is a versatile laptop backpack for daily carry and travel that features 26 different pockets and compartment throughout its design.

What we love most about the LEVEL8 Atlas are all of its special features that cater to those of us who are serious about organization: a tough weather resistant 1680D ballistic nylon exterior, a special patented padded laptop compartment, clamshell compartment for easy packing and lots of smaller pockets for everything from water bottles to tech chargers.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 31L

• Dimensions: 18.6” x 12.6” x 6.5”

• Weather resistant design

• Patented 3D EVA padded laptop compartment for ultimate protection

• Ergonomic back panel designed for maximum airflow

OGIO Renegade RSS laptop backpack

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The OGIO Renegade RSS is one of our top choices thanks to its insane amount of pockets and compartments, high quality construction and special RSS laptop sleeve.

The “RSS” in the OGIO Renegade RSS stands for Reactive Suspension System. This special pocket protects your expensive laptop from harsh bumps and drops and is the heart of what makes the Renegade RSS the best OGIO backpack.

With the RSS Renegade, OGIO puts an emphasis on including a pocket for just about everything. Here is just a sample of the pockets that the OGIO Renegade RSS backpack includes:

• Padded mouse/digital camera pocket

• Crush proof Tech Vault pocket

• iPad/tablet pocket

• Side water bottle pockets

• Side utility pockets

• Organization panel on the front

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 29.5 liters

• Dimensions: 19.5” x 14” x 10.5”

• RSS laptop sleeve fits up to 15”

• Available in different colors

The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack

With the Commuter, The Ridge offers a versatile solution for anyone who needs a laptop backpack with lots of pockets and compartments for daily use. Along with innovative features such as an integrated USB phone charging port and shock-resistant laptop compartment, the Commuter boasts over a dozen pockets and compartments. The entire inside of the main compartment is loaded with smaller zippered and stash pockets for organizing your tech and daily essentials. Don’t let the minimalist exterior fool you - The Ridge Commuter is packed with compartments to organize you gear!

Features at a glance:

• Made with a waterproof nylon shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers to keep your stuff dry

• 15” shock-resistant laptop compartment

• Mobile charging backpack - external USB port with internal power bank pocket

eBags Professional Slim backpack

The best-selling eBags Professional Slim is for anyone looking for a backpack with lots of pockets and more organizers than you know what to do with.

The main selling point is the Professional Slim’s large full-panel organizer that opens up like a book cover. Inside this compartment you have almost a dozen mesh pockets, slip pockets and pen holders.  

The rest of the backpack is just as serious with pockets and compartments. You’ll find separate laptop and tablet compartments, a crush-proof bottom pocket plus a hidden water bottle pocket on the side of the bag to help keep the eBags Professional Slim looking sleek enough to carry to the office.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 21.6L

• Dimensions: 18” x 12.75" x 8.5"

• Padded laptop sleeve fits up to 17”

• Multiple colors available

• Available in the smaller eBags Professional Slim Jr version.

Targus Newport 15.6” Backpack

Buy on Amazon

The Targus Newport is a women’s backpack made for those looking for a small backpack with lots of pockets and organizers. This backpack features a ton of compartments for everything from personal items to a laptop and tech accessories while still keeping a slim and sleek profile.

The Newport’s functional yet stylish design is what makes this bag one of the our favorite women’s work backpacks but it’s also great for casual carry on the weekends. The front compartments are loaded with zip pockets and organizers while the back of the bag features a roomy main compartment and separate laptop compartment. Everything stays separate and organized making grabbing what you need a simple task.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 15L

• Dimensions: 11.13" x 18.00" x 5.25" 

• Separate padded laptop compartment up to 15”

• Available in multiple colors

The North Face Recon backpack

When it comes to backpacks with lots of storage, the North Face Recon does a great job at providing serious daily carry organization. The Recon is equipped with a roomy 30 liter main compartment and separate laptop compartment to keep things partitioned. As for pockets, you’ll find two side stretch pockets and a small fleece lined pocket for things like a phone or other small electronics. The newest Recon design also includes a large front admin compartment filled with pockets and organizers for your daily essentials.

For a backpack with lots of pockets, the North Face Recon still feels very simple. The backpack has enough organization to keep your stuff nice and neat but it doesn’t feel overwhelming. It’s this perfect balance of utility and simplicity that sets the Recon apart from other backpacks in its class.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 30L

• Dimensions: 21” x 15” x 9" (See our North Face Recon vs Borealis review for more info on the measurements)

• Padded laptop compartment up to 15”

• The North Face Recon is also available in a women’s fit

Incase Icon laptop backpack

Tech junkies need a backpack with lots of pockets and compartments for their daily carry. Cords, chargers and accessories don’t take up a lot of room but they can be a nightmare to sift through in large open pockets. This is where the Incase Icon backpack comes to save the day.

The Incase Icon laptop backpack is only 17 liters but provides enough pockets and compartments to safely store and organize all of your tech plus still have enough room for daily essentials. The Icon is comprised of 3 compartments; the laptop compartment, main compartment and front organizer panel for safely storing small items. Add in dedicated phone and tablet pockets and you have the perfect daily tech backpack.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 17L

• Dimensions: 19” x 13" x 9”

• Separate padded laptop compartment fits 15.6” slim laptops

Mission Workshop The Rhake

The Rhake by Mission Workshop is a versatile backpack with enough storage for daily commutes, light travel and even outdoor adventures. If you are looking for a high quality backpack with lots of pockets that is built to last decades and not just a few seasons then The Rhake is the backpack to own. With it’s 22 liter main compartment, separate laptop compartment and plethora of outside organizers and pockets, the Rhake gives you plenty of ways to organize and carry your daily gear. 

One of the best features of The Rhake is it’s weatherproof construction. Each bag is built with two-layer weatherproof material that keeps moisture from reaching the inside for peace of mind no matter how hard it’s raining. With these features and more it’s no wonder the Mission Workshop Rhake was also one of top our choices for the best waterproof college backpack.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 22L

• Dimensions: 21” x 13” x 5”

• 17” Laptop Compartment and separate 10” Tablet Compartment

• Made in USA and guaranteed for life 
  

Boundary Supply Errant backpack

The Boundary Supply Errant is deceivingly minimal on the outside while having an incredible array of pockets and compartments on the inside for maximum organization. The Errant features multiple stretch pockets, zip compartments and a laptop sleeve while also giving you two different zipper access points to get to your stuff inside. The backpack even features a wet/dry shoe compartment for those busy gym days and is compatible with Boundary Supply’s modular components so you can add on to the Errant if you need more storage options.

Boundary Supply is known for using top quality materials and construction to make their packs and the Errant is no exception. The backpack is made out of water, stain and dust resistant materials that will keep the Errant looking fresh no matter how busy your daily grind is. If you are looking for a small backpack with lots of pockets and compartments for everyday items then the Boundary Supply Errant deserves a closer look.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 24L

• Dimensions: L: 20” W: 13” D: 6”

• Available in multiple colors

• Boundary Supply Lifetime warranty

Everki Atlas laptop backpack

Buy on Amazon

The Everki Atlas is a large multi-use backpack for work, college and travel. What makes the Everki Atlas special is its adjustable laptop compartment that allows you to fit the laptop sleeve to the size of your laptop. This allows the Everki Atlas to store laptops from 13-inches to 17.3 inches with a perfect fit.

For those looking for backpacks with lots of storage, the Everki Atlas has incredible carry versatility thanks to its various organizer panels and pockets for things like magazines, keys, tech accessories and more. In a way the Everki Atlas feels like the Swiss Army knife of backpacks all while still looking clean enough to wear even to professional settings or work trips.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 32L

• Dimensions: 18.9” x 13.4” x 9.1”

• Adjustable compartment fits 13” - 17.3” laptops

• Travel-friendly laptop compartment and luggage pass-through

Bruno Cavelli Laptop Backpack

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Bruno Cavelli offers big features at a budget price. For under $50 you can grab a water resistant laptop backpack designed for maximum organization thanks to over a dozen pockets.

A few stand-out features includes a padded laptop compartment, an external USB charging port and tons of smaller pockets for pens, tech accessories and notebooks. If you are looking for a mid-sized backpack with lots of pockets then the Bruno Cavelli Laptop Backpack is definitely worth a closer look.

• Available in 15” laptop and 17” laptop versions

• Integrated USB charging port

• 3 separate compartments to organize school, travel and work items

More Backpack Brands to Consider

Didn’t like any of the bags on our list? No worries!

Here are a few more of our favorite brands that offer backpacks with lots of pockets and compartments for everyday carry.

Knack Bags

Knack offers innovative expandable backpacks that can be used for both daily carry and travel. Think of a Knack Pack as a true one-bag solution that converts as you need it. 

If you are looking for the motherlode of backpacks with lots of pockets we highly recommend taking a look at the Knack Pack Series 2 that features an expanded organizer compartment. We really can’t recommend the great build quality and clever features of the Knack Pack enough. If you need help choosing between Knack models then make sure to check out our Knack Series 1 vs Series 2 in-depth comparison.

LEVEL8

LEVEL8 is a brand that focuses on luggage and bag solutions for travel and everyday carry. Their bag selection is perfect for those looking for a backpack with lots of pockets for travel, work or the gym as each model is carefully designed to meet the needs of the modern wanderer. 

The brand really shines when it comes to their tech-centric backpacks. Each of LEVEL8 backpack has pockets for a laptop, tablet and accessories and feature their patented EVA foam laptop compartments are specially designed to keep your expensive tech safe.

Everlane

Everlane specializes in offering modern basics and accessories without the luxury price tag. Their line of backpacks and bags are great for anyone looking for clean and minimalist looks for daily carry and travel. 

We recommend taking a look at the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack since it has some useful pocket placement and is great for daily carry or short trips. For a more in-depth look make sure to check out our Everlane ReNew Transit backpack review video.

Samsonite 

Samsonite specializes in luggage, backpacks and bags for work and travel. For maximum compartments, we recommend the Samsonite Tectonic backpack that is designed with carefully placed pockets for easy access when you are on the move. For a slimmer and less flashy backpack profile, the Xenon line is a great alternative thanks to its multiple sizes and travel-friendly features.

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The North Face Recon vs Borealis 2019 - What's the difference?

This comparison is of the 2019 versions of both the Recon and Borealis. For an up to date comparison, visit our 2023 The North Face Recon vs Borealis comparison.

The North Face is known for updating their backpack designs every so often and specific details may be different if you wish to compare newer versions of either backpack. But if you are looking into grabbing an older model, this comparison will be perfect for exploring the details.

Quick Specs

	The North Face Recon	The North Face Borealis
Dimensions	~21" H x 15" W x 9" D	~19.5" H x 14.5" W x 8" D
Volume	30 Liters	28 Liters (Mens) 27 Liters (Womens)
Material	600D Polyester 500D Nylon Cordura Nylon Ripstop	600D Polyester 500D Nylon Cordura Nylon Ripstop
Laptop Sleeve	Up to 15" laptop	Up to 15" laptop
Weight	2lbs 7.7oz	2lbs 8.9oz
Front Storage	Stash pocket	Elastic bungee system
Price	Check the latest price on Amazon	Check the latest price on Amazon

Video Review

Men’s vs Women’s North Face Backpacks

The Recon and Borealis backpacks used for this comparison are the women’s versions. If you are looking to purchase a men’s North Face backpack please note that 99% of this comparison will still apply.

The main differences between the men’s and women’s versions are as follows:

• Men’s North Face backpacks have larger back panels and wider shoulder straps to accommodate broader shoulders. This is the biggest difference.

• The men’s version of the North Face Borealis has a 28 liter carrying capacity while the women’s version is 27 liters. Both the men’s and women’s version of the Recon are 30 liters.

• The men’s version of the Borealis has a wider front elastic bungee system and includes daisy chains. The women’s Borealis does not include daisy chains.

• All pockets and compartments are exactly the same in both the men’s and women’s version.

North Face Recon vs Borealis Side-By-Side

Carrying Capacity and Size

One of the most obvious differences between the North Face Recon and Borealis are their size and carrying capacity.

The North Face Recon has a carrying capacity of 30 liters while the Borealis sports a carrying capacity of 28 liters for the men’s version and 27 liters for the women’s version.

A 2-3 liter difference in carrying capacity isn’t all that much but we found that the larger main compartment of the Recon makes it ideal for people who need the extra room for large books, clothes and other daily items.

Most of the extra room on the Recon can be found in the height and depth of the main compartment when compared to the Borealis.

North Face Recon next to 1 liter water bottles. The extra carrying capacity can be found in the height and depth of the main compartment.

We found that the official North Face dimensions for the Recon and Borealis are not correct. According to North Face the dimensions are:

• North Face Recon: 19.25(H) by 13(W) x 7(D) inches

• North Face Borealis: 19.75(H) X 13.25(W) X 9.75(D) inches

The official measurements make it seem like the North Face Borealis is the larger backpack of the two when it comes to dimensions. When actually measured the North Face Recon is the larger backpack both in size and capacity.

The actual measurements are as follows:

• North Face Recon: Approx. 21(H) x 15(W) x 9(D) inches

• North Face Borealis: Approx. 19.5(H) x 14.5(W) x 8(D) inches

Interior Pockets and Similarities

On the interior of the backpack is where things get interesting. Despite their drastically different exteriors, the North Face chooses to use the same interior pockets, organizer panels and laptop sleeves on the inside of each bag. There really isn’t much difference between the North Face Recon and Borealis when it comes to storage.

The North Face Recon and Borealis are essentially the same backpack with different exterior shells.

Let’s run through the main carry features so you can see what we mean.

Both the Recon and Borealis have the same fleece lined front pocket to store items like phones, earbuds and other small electronics.

Both backpacks have nearly identical front organizer compartments. These compartments have organizers for small items such as pens, phones and chargers. The North Face also includes zip and stash pockets for larger items.

The laptop sleeve on the North Face Recon and Borealis are also nearly identical. Both backpacks can support a laptop up to 15-inches.

The similarities don’t end on the inside. Both the North Face Borealis and Recon include stretch side pockets for water bottles, padded top handles, and the same exact back panels and shoulder straps.

Exterior Carry Differences

The real differences between the Recon and Borealis are on the exterior. Each backpack has special carry features on the outside that are worth considering when choosing between the two.

North Face Borealis Elastic Bungee System

The North Face Borealis has an elastic bungee system that adorns the front of the bag. This bungee system is made out of small tie out loops with elastic cord running through them. It’s used for attaching large and bulky items to the front of the backpack.

Examples for real world use of the Borealis bungee system include:

• Quickly tying down a light jacket or sweater

• Carrying bulky items like a beach towel or blanket

• Securing extra tall items like a light sleeping bag or yoga mat.

The North Face Borealis with beach towel attached to front

The elastic bungee system is incredibly functional and you can find a million ways to use it. This feature alone makes the North Face Borealis a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile backpack for school, travel or outdoor activities where carrying bulky items is necessary.

The North Face Recon ditches the bungee system for a single stash pocket. Although the pocket is extendable using the side compression straps, the pocket isn’t that large. It measures 9.5 inches vertically and has no straps to hold oversized items down.

If you have a light sweatshirt or jacket - it might fit. Smaller items like a bike lock or a small notebook will fit just fine. But it’s definitely too small for a pair of shoes or a bike helmet.

The North Face Recon: placing headphones inside front stash pocket

This front stash pocket on the North Face Recon is most useful when you need to put something away quickly and don’t have time to open up a zippered pocket. It’s actually very convenient on busy days.

Another difference on the Recon is the inclusion of daisy chains on the front of the stash pocket. Although the men’s version of the Borealis does include similar daisy chains on the side of the bag, the women’s Borealis includes no daisy chains whatsoever. Both the Recon and Borealis feature a lash tab on the bottom of the front of each bag.

As an aside, if you want to learn more about daisy chains, tie out loops, and lash tabs then make sure to check out our anatomy of a backpack guide where we explain what all of these external attachments are for.

Material and Construction Comparison

When it comes to construction and materials both the Recon and Borealis are on the same page. The North Face uses the exact same primary materials for both backpacks and construction quality feels identical.

Both bags use a mix of 600D Polyester Toile, 500D Nylon Oxford Slub and Cordura Nylon Ripstop fabrics. Materials may vary depending on which color you choose as the North Face may use additional fabrics for different colors.

Since both the Borealis and Recon use the same exact shoulder straps and back panels - both backpacks feel the same when worn. Neither backpack edges the other one out in terms of comfort since the size differences aren’t that great to begin with.

Identical back panels and shoulder straps.

As you can see, most of the differences between the North Face Borealis and Recon are cosmetic. Their important carry, comfort and construction features are nearly identical.

Which Backpack is Better?

The North Face Recon

The North Face Borealis

Choose the North Face Recon if… you need a larger backpack for books, binders, clothes and other essential items. At 30 liters, it’s just the right size for a daily backpack without being too bulky. The quick stash pocket in the front is convenient and comes in handy when you are in a rush. Commuters will like that the external pocket on the Recon can comfortably fit a bike lock.

Choose the North Face Borealis if… you like the idea of the external bungee system to haul around oversized gear or smaller items like light jackets. This bungee system is great once you start to utilize it since it frees up the main compartment and gives you a ton of more storage space. The Borealis is also great if you prefer a smaller capacity backpack.