These are the Best Camera Backpacks for Women in 2023
Find the best camera backpack for women with this curated list of stylish, compact and functional camera bags!
When it comes to backpacks designed specifically for women, camera bags stand out as one of the most lacking categories. Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist, having the right bag to carry your camera equipment is crucial.
Unfortunately, the world of camera backpacks hasn't always catered well to women. Many camera packs on the market are simply too large and fail to provide the right fit when it comes to shoulder straps and hip belts. Additionally, although many unisex camera bags do a great job at storing expensive equipment, very few are stylish. Where are all the cute camera bags?
Despite these challenges, camera bags are indispensable for women photographers who need to accommodate different needs, from storing your camera body and lenses to keeping your memory cards and hard drives organized. With our guide, we hope to help you find the best camera backpacks designed with women in mind.
Whether you're a photography enthusiast looking for a waterproof backpack for exploring the city or a travel adventurer looking for that perfect small camera bag to compliment your carry-on bag, you'll discover the best camera backpack to meet your needs with our top picks.
Our Top Picks
Hand-selected camera bags for women.
Best womens camera backpack
Peak Design Everyday Zip Backpack
Feature-packed camera bag that let’s you switch between everyday and photo carry.
Runner Up
Langly New Sierra Backpack
Stylish camera backpack available in a ton of fun colors.
Best Small Camera Bag
Lo & Sons Claremont
Small shoulder bag for DSLR camera and lens
How We Picked These Camera Bags
Size and Fit
Pack size and fit was our first priority when choosing the camera bags on this list. Let's face it, most camera bags are designed for men and we often have to sacrifice a good fit for a big bulky design with the features we need. This is why we focused on smaller stylish camera bags that fit as well as they look. We also made sure that large capacity bags had features like women-specific shoulder straps and hip belts for a more comfortable fit when carrying heavy camera equipment.
The Right Compartments
Whether you are looking for a camera bag for travel or everyday use, the packs we feature here have all the compartments you need for your journey. We made sure that each pack had easy access to photography equipment as well as enough pockets for personal items such as a laptop, water bottle and other everyday essentials. The perfect bag has easy access to your camera body, additional lens and small accessories like SD cards and lens filters. We paid special attention to camera backpacks that keep your photography gear organized, protected and within reach.
Good Quality
Having a great quality camera bag is important in keeping your important expensive equipment safe from bumps, drops and inclement weather. This is especially true when its a bag you plan on using on a daily basis. When it comes to keeping your camera equipment safe, it's sometimes worth the extra cost of a high-quality camera bag that you can depend on.
Great Style
Even though there are many camera backpacks on the market, most don't meet the needs of being functional, well-fitting and matching your personal style. The perfect bag checks all three boxes! In our hunt for the best women's camera backpacks we found that finding a bag that is both stylish and functional can be a bit of a challenge. Thankfully we found some great models we think you'll really love!Best Camera Backpacks for Women
Best Camera Backpacks for Women
Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip
If you're in search of the best camera backpack for women, then the Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip is the answer. Seriously! This backpack is a true gem. The internal adjustable FlexFold dividers allow you to carry either a full-frame camera or a mirrorless camera along with extra lenses. And here's the kicker – you can even remove these FlexFold dividers entirely to use the Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip as a daypack.
One of the many standout features of the Everyday Backpack Zip is its 270-degree weatherproof zipper, which allows side access to your camera gear from either side and provides the option to fully open the backpack for easy access to the entire main compartment, simplifying gear packing. Inside the main compartment, discreet pockets are strategically placed for easy access to small items, and the padded adjustable straps ensure comfortable wear throughout the day. In short, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip is the perfect camera bag for those who want it all.
Key Features:
Capacity: 15L or 20L
Padded laptop sleeve (+ extra tablet sleeve)
Can hold mirrorless camera and 2-3 lenses or full-frame camera + lens
Optional hip belt available
Bagsmart Photo Series Camera Backpack
Available in cute colors like ivory, light blue, and khaki, the Bagsmart Photo Series backpack stands out as the best camera bag for those on a budget. Despite its affordability, it offers a ton of fantastic features for carrying your photography gear. Its 25-liter internal capacity makes it an excellent choice for weekend adventures when you need to carry both your camera gear and essential items.
Inside the Bagsmart Photo Series Camera backpack, you'll find two separate areas to keep your camera gear and personal items neatly organized. This arrangement allows easy access to your camera and lenses through the front packing panel or via the side zipper without disturbing the items on top of the main compartment. The bottom compartment includes padded dividers that allows you to pack either a full-frame or mirrorless camera with a lens attached, along with 3-5 extra lenses and accessories.
Key Features:
Capacity: 25L
Dimensions: 17.3” H x 11.5” W x 7” D
15-inch laptop sleeve
Includes adjustable chest strap and waist belt at no extra cost
Water-resistant materials and rain cover included
Langly New Sierra Backpack
The Langly New Sierra backpack is the ultimate choice for women in search of a stylish camera backpack that seamlessly combines fashion with function. Available in a variety of fun colors to match your personal style, this backpack is the perfect camera bag for everyday carry and travel. Its minimalist design packs maximum versatility, making it ideal whether you're capturing life's moments or exploring the world.
With a thoughtfully designed interior, the Sierra Camera Backpack can accommodate up to seven lenses and a single camera body. It even features an 18-inch laptop sleeve, providing secure storage for your tech essentials. The adjustable dividers ensure that your camera gear stays organized and protected, while the clamshell main compartment offers quick and easy access to your most important equipment.
Beyond photography storage, this backpack shines as an everyday companion. By removing the camera inserts, it transforms into a versatile backpack that's great for campus, town outings, or short hikes. The padded shoulder straps are perfect for all-day comfort, and the side pockets are perfect for stowing water bottles, cables, and small items like memory cards and hard drives. With its rugged yet stylish design, the Langly New Sierra backpack effortlessly blends into your daily life while keeping your gear secure, making it the stylish camera backpack that adventurous women photographers have been waiting for. Plus, it comes with the Langly Lifetime Warranty, offering some serious peace of mind.
Key Features:
Capacity: 24L
Dimensions: 18" H x 14.5" W x 8" D
Exterior 18" laptop sleeve
Can fit SLR or DSLR cameras with multiple lenses
Lifetime Warranty
Moment Everything Backpack
The Moment Everything backpack is an excellent choice for women seeking a stylish camera backpack for everyday carry. This high-quality bag has been designed to meet the demands of daily life while seamlessly incorporating your photography needs. Whether you opt for the 17L or the 21L version, this backpack serves as the perfect companion for your daily adventures.
Each bag can be purchased with a 4L camera insert that can accommodate a Canon 5D (without a battery grip) sized camera with a 70-200mm lens, leaving room for additional essentials. Whether you're capturing moments on the fly or planning a photography outing, the Moment Everthing Backpack ensures your camera gear is secure and easily accessible whenever you need it
With multiple interior pockets, discreet pockets, and thoughtful organization, this backpack keeps your gear and personal items super organized. It's not just about carrying your camera equipment; it's about ensuring that your daily essentials, like laptops, tablets, and accessories, have their dedicated space for everyday use. The low-profile padding provides extra protection for your gear, giving you peace of mind as you move about your day.
Key Features
Capacity: 17L or 21L
16" padded laptop sleeve
Side-access makes grabbing camera quick and easy
Designed to be used with Moment 4L Camera Insert
Shimoda Action X30 v2 Women's Camera Backpack
The Shimoda Action X30 V2 camera backpack is the perfect bag for women photographers looking for a technical bag for their travel and outdoor adventures. Designed with precision and comfort in mind, it offers a women's harness with specialized adjustable straps and hip belt tailored to fit women's bodies. The straps are ingeniously crafted to curve away from the chest area, ensuring no awkward pressure points, and the belt caters to those with smaller waists.
Versatility is the name of the game with the X30 V2. A special feature is the Core Unit Modular Camera Insert System, guaranteeing shockproof protection for both Mirrorless and DSLR cameras and lenses without unnecessary padding or weight. With dual laptop sleeves, you can keep your tech gear safe and organized, and the expandable roll-top access ensures flexibility in your packing while maintaining a snug fit. This backpack even includes a rain cover for unexpected weather, so your expensive equipment stays protected.
The Women's Action X30 combines efficiency, quick access, and a compact design, making it ideal for backcountry adventures. With its thoughtful design, durable features, and tailored fit, it's the best camera bag for women who need a pro-level camera backpack that doesn't compromise on features. It's carry-on size is also perfect for stowing away in overhead compartments during flights for peace of mind during busy travels.
Key Features:
Capacity: 25L
Dimensions: 20.1” H x 11.8” W x 6.7” D
Womens-specific fit
5-year warranty
PEAK DESIGN EVERYDAY TOTEPACK
Carry it like a tote or go-hands free in backpack mode! The Peak Design Everyday Totepack is a convertible backpack that is as versatile as you are! It's also the best camera backpack for women who demand both style and functionality without compromise. With the elegant appearance of a tote bag and the convenience of an active carry backpack, it's the ideal companion for women on the move, whether for everyday activities or carrying photography gear. This backpack seamlessly merges style and practicality, making it a must-have for women who seek the best of both worlds.
What sets the Totepack apart is its adaptability. Padded shoulder straps easily stow away, leaving you with robust padded hand carry straps for a sleek look. It offers quick access points on the top via a magnetic clasp or a weatherproof zipper, making it a breeze to grab your camera, water bottle, or frequently used items. Inside, the FlexFold dividers provide customizable and protective storage for your camera equipment, ensuring it's safe and well-organized. With stretchy internal pockets for small items, dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves, and a weatherproof shell made from 100% recycled 400D nylon, this Totepack is not only stylish but also built to withstand the elements.
The Peak Design Everyday Totepack is designed to accommodate various camera gear, from mirrorless cameras with multiple lenses and accessories to crop-sensor DSLRs and full-frame DSLRs with pro lenses. Its external carry options with stowable straps offer added convenience, allowing you to secure bulky items like jackets or tripods to the outside using the Cord Hook system. This Totepack combines fashion and function effortlessly, making it the best camera bag choice for women who refuse to compromise on style while carrying their precious camera gear.
Key Features:
Capacity: 20L
Dimensions: 18.1” H x 14.96” W x 6.69” D
15-inch laptop compartment
Convertible: backpack to tote bag
Brevite The Jumper Camera Backpack
The Brevite Jumper backpack is undeniably the best camera bag for women in search of a small, yet highly functional camera backpack. Its exterior boasts a stylish, minimalistic design, making it the perfect companion for urban explorations. But don't be fooled by its simplicity, as on the inside, it's a powerhouse of camera protection and organization. With the flexibility to configure its five dividers in multiple ways, this backpack can easily accommodate a full-frame camera and a 70-200mm lens, ensuring you're ready to capture any moment.
One standout feature is the quick access door, strategically located for those on-the-go moments when you can't afford to miss a shot. The backpack even includes a dedicated 16-inch MacBook laptop compartment, safeguarded by a water-resistant zipper, so your tech stays protected from the elements. The dual tripod carry option, with both bottom and side holders, ensures you're never caught without your tripod, ready to seize that perfect shot.
Designed for both photoshoots and everyday use, this backpack offers additional convenience with top and side compartments for clothing, a quick-access pocket on the side, a secure passport pocket for peace of mind, and a hidden pocket for valuables. Plus, it features a luggage pass-through, allowing you to comfortably attach it to your suitcase, making it an ideal personal item backpack for flights. With 10 vibrant color options, this stylish camera bag is not just a reliable photography companion but also a fashionable accessory for your daily adventures.
Key Features:
Capacity: 18L
Dimensions: 17” H x 11” W x 5.5” D
16-inch laptop compartment
Bottom adjustable straps for tripod carry
BAGSMART ANNISTON CAMERA BACKPACK
The Bagsmart Anniston offers a spacious capacity in a compact package tailor-made for women. With 20 liters of internal space, it easily accommodates a full frame DSLR camera with a 70-200mm lens attached, along with extra lenses and camera gear in the lower camera zone. The bag also boasts a multitude of pockets and compartments, making organizing your equipment a breeze.
What sets the Bagsmart Anniston apart is its clever division of the main compartment into two distinct "zones." The lower camera zone features adjustable dividers designed to snugly hold your camera, lenses, and accessories, while the upper zone remains open for packing your daily essentials. On days when you don't need your camera gear, these zones can be combined, turning the Anniston into a regular daypack.
This camera bag excels in keeping your belongings well-organized. It offers a padded laptop compartment that comfortably fits a 15-inch laptop, side pockets for water bottles or a tripod, and numerous internal mesh pockets for smaller items that often end up buried at the bottom of your bag. With everything neatly in place, you'll spend more time capturing great photos and less time searching for lost items inside your backpack.
The Bagsmart Anniston DSLR Camera backpack strikes a good balance, giving you a compact profile without sacrificing space for larger camera gear. With a bag height of 15.7 inches, it comfortably fits most women, addressing the concerns of those who often find unisex backpacks too long in the torso. Its 7.5-inch depth ensures that the backpack sits further away from your back, creating additional packing room and allowing you to carry everything you need without worry, unlike slimmer bags. If you're in search of a compact women's camera bag that doesn't compromise on internal space and organization, the Bagsmart Anniston is our top recommendation.
Key Features
Capacity: 25L
Dimensions: 15.7” H x 11.8” L x 7.5” D
15-inch laptop compartment
Access camera from side windows or front panel
WANDRD PRVKE Lite
The PRVKE Liteoffers all the pro-grade features usually reserved for larger, pricier camera backpacks. This makes it an ideal camera backpack for women who want top-notch features in a more compact package.
Taking inspiration from the larger WANDRD PRVKE, the PRVKE Lite retains many of the features that made the original backpack stand out. This modular backpack gives internal partitions for organizing camera gear and daily essentials, a fully padded laptop sleeve, weatherproof construction, and multiple ways to access your gear from the outside.
Inside the camera storage compartment, you can comfortably fit a full-frame DSLR camera body, up to three lenses, and accessories. The roll-top main compartment provides versatility, expanding from 11 to 16 liters. This means you can keep the bag compact on lighter days and expand it on longer adventures when you need more storage space.
One of the standout features of WANDRD bags is their high quality. The PRVKE Lite lives up to this reputation, feeling durable and well-crafted in everyday use. Its YKK weather-resistant zippers operate smoothly and snag-free, while the 1680D Ballistic Nylon fabric is rugged enough to withstand various adventures. If you're a woman seeking a technical, high-quality camera backpack that fits your needs, the WANDRD PRVKE comes highly recommended.
For a closer look at the larger 21 liter PRVKE, take a look at our WANDRD PRVKE review.
Key Features
Capacity: 11-16L (expandable)
Dimensions: 16” H x 11” W x 5.5” D
14-inch laptop sleeve
Highly water-resistant construction
Stylish Camera Crossbody Bags for Women
Lo & Sons Claremont
The Lo & Sons Claremont purse stands out as the ultimate choice for women seeking a small and stylish camera bag. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this shoulder bag caters to style-conscious photographers who require both quality and convenience in their daily photography pursuits.
Designed to accommodate a DSLR camera and an additional lens, the Claremont offers a secure and padded compartment to safeguard your valuable equipment. Its thoughtfully designed front slip pockets provide easy access to SD memory cards, ensuring you're always ready to capture the perfect shot. For added peace of mind, the Claremont adds security features like a discreet back pocket and a turnlock closure.
Crafted from high-quality materials, including a full-grain leather exterior, a soft quilted interior for camera protection, and durable metal hardware, the Claremont exudes a sense of elegance and durability that suits daily use. Whether you're strolling through the city or exploring new landscapes, the Lo & Sons Claremont purse is your perfect camera accessory, blending style and practicality for the modern, fashion-conscious photographer.
Key Features:
Dimensions: 10.5"W x 8.5"H x 5.5"D
High-quality full-grain leather construction
Can hold a DSLR body and small lens
Available in multple colors
Meliaebag Mirrorless Camera Purse
The Meliaebag Mirrorless Camera Purse is blends a stylish shoulder bag with a functional camera bag for an elegant take on photo carry. Versatility defines this camera bag, wear it as a crossbody purse or shoulder bag thanks to its interchangeable straps!
Multiple pockets offer organization for your essentials, including an inner main compartment with secure zippered and slot pockets, as well as a padded basket with adjustable dividers to accommodate most camera bodies with a height of 4 inches or less, making it compatible with various mirrorless cameras and small DSLRs. The camera basket can be easily removed to transform this purse into a chic everyday handbag, making it perfect for any occasion.
Key Features:
Dimensions: 12" L x 9.8" H x 4.5" D
Fits mirrorless cameras and small DSLR cameras
Available in multiple colors
More Helpful Resources
Kanken Classic vs Kanken Mini - Turn any Flajraven Kanken into a camera bag with a photo insert. Use our comparison to find the right size for your gear!
Share your Travel Photography tips! - Usefull Reddit thread with tips, tricks and real gear suggestions.
Backpack Size Guide: Understand backpack sizes with our helpful visual guide
Best Clamshell Backpacks in 2024 - Tested and Reviewed
We test and review the best clamshell backpacks for travel and laptop carry available right now!
Discover a favorite feature in modern backpack design: the clamshell backpack, also known as a panel loader or front loading backpack. This style of backpack has become a game-changer for travelers and daily commuters alike. With its unique ability to provide a birds-eye view of your packed belongings, the clamshell design offers efficient packing for both travel adventures and everyday use.
In this buying guide, we have tested numerous clamshell backpacks to bring you the very best options for both everyday carry and travel needs. Get ready to experience the joy of hassle-free packing and convenient access with our top recommendations!
Shown above left to right:
What is a Clamshell Backpack?
Most backpacks are designed as top-loading with the main compartment entry at the top of the bag. Think of this design as a big bucket that requires you to stack things on top of each other. Although a top-loading backpack has it's advantages, sometimes it becomes a hassle to unpack everything just to reach something at the bottom of your bag.
Enter a clamshell backpack, also known as a panel loader backpack. These backpacks feature a main compartment zipper opening that spans 3 of the 4 sides of the backpack. This allows you to the lay the backpack flat for a birds-eye view of your packing.
Backpacks with a clamshell opening have been popular with photography bags for years. This design allows photographers to quickly access their lenses and gear. But travel and urban backpacks are finally catching up with the trend and adding full clamshell openings to their design. These backpacks allow you to breeze through airport security, quickly access small items at the bottom of the bag and pack the way you want to without compromise.
Advantages of a Clamshell Backpack
Shown Above: The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack
3-Way Entry
A clamshell backpack has one notable feature that is special to its backpack design: 3-way entry.
Depending on how you position the zippers, you can enter the main compartment in three different ways. Firstly, you can access the main compartment from the top, just like a regular top-loading backpack. This method allows for quick and easy access to essential items without fully opening the bag.
Secondly, a clamshell backpack enables access to the main compartment from either the right side or the left side, making it easy to reach specific items without disturbing the entire pack's contents. Lastly, for those moments when you want full access to all your packing, you can open the zipper fully. This 3-way entry applies if whether it's a front loading backpack or a backpack with a back zipper.
Shown Above: Able Carry Max travel backpack
Optimize Your packing
A clamshell backpack, with its convenient "Tetris packing" feature, proves to be a game-changer for travel enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
When you open a clamshell backpack, all of the interior is exposed, allowing you to take advantage of every inch of space efficiently. Using packing cubes or other organizers, you can neatly arrange your belongings within the front-loading main compartment, optimizing the backpack's design for easy access and better weight distribution. Much like a travel backpack that opens like a suitcase, this backpack design ensure you can pack more while keeping everything organized and easily accessible during your travels or daily commutes.
Shown Above: Nomatic Backpack interior pockets
More (Secure) Pockets
One underrated feature of a clamshell design is easy access to inside pockets. This is especially useful for urban travel and carry-on backpacks going through airport security. Many backpack brands have been including more pockets on the inside of their bags for better organization. A panel loader backpack gives you better access to these pockets since all sides of the main compartment are exposed. This means less reliance on external pockets and better security for small items. If you are looking for a backpack with lots of pockets, then a clamshell design may be your best bet.
Best Clamshell Backpacks for Travel
Osprey Sojourn Porter
The Osprey Sojourn Porter is a the newest successor to the popular Osprey Farpoint travel pack. In addition to having clamshell opening, you get a long list of amazing features to make traveling a breeze.
One of our favorite features is the ability to carry it like a duffel when needed by tucking away the shoulder straps and hip belt into the back panel. This makes for an easier time when storing the bag in overhead compartments on planes, trains and buses. The compression straps allow you to adjust the Sojourn Porter's size as needed and the ability to attach a smaller Osprey Daylite or Daylite Plus backpack to the front of the bag for extra storage.
The Sojourn Porter comes in 30, 46 and 65 liter sizes but all have the same key features that makes them great heavy-duty clamshell travel backpacks. If you want to stay within a carry-on backpack size, make sure to stick with the smaller 30L and 46L Sojourn Porter travel packs to stay under the maximum size.
Features at a glance:
Available in 30L, 46L and 65L sizes
Ergonomically designed for heavy loads
Full clamshell main compartment for easy packing
Quick access front compartment for organization of smaller items
ABLE CARRY MAX
If having just one carry-on backpack for trips is your travel style, then the Able Carry Max deserves a closer look. This backpack is divided into two major compartments. The first gives you 30 liters of packing room for packing. The second tech compartment offers a 17" padded laptop sleeve and lots of smaller pockets for accessories. You even get a few sneaky hidden pockets for extra security on busy travel days. Our favorite is the hidden water bottle pocket.
What impresses us most about the Able Carry Max is it's premium construction. Crafted with top-notch waterproof X-Pac fabric and sturdy Cordura Nylon, it's built like a tank. Not only is it durable, but its comfortable. The ergonomic cushioned shoulder straps and ventilated back panel are some of the best we have tested Couple these features with a lifetime guarantee from Able Carry and this might be the only large backpack you'll ever need.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 30L
17" laptop sleeve inside tech compartment
Very comfortable padded shoulder straps and ventilated back panel
Minimalist design with hidden pockets
Versatile enough for travel, work or gym
Peak Design Travel Backpack
This travel backpack is insane. It has so many amazing features that it would be impossible to list them all. But let's just touch on some of our favorites.
The Peak Design Travel Backpack is an exandable backpack. The default size gives you 35 liters of packing room but it can expande all the way up to 45 liters in seconds using an expandable zipper. But what really impressed us is that fact that the pack can also be compressed to a smaller size. One days when you want a smaller bag, simply use the special compression snaps to turn it into a smaller 30 liter backpack.
Unlike most front loading backpacks, the Peak Design Travel Backpack features a back zipper for more secure carry. But that's not all! The bag also gives you access to the main compartment through the left and right side as well. Still not impressed? The front organizer compartment has a tear-away panel that allows you quick access to the main compartment from the front. In summary, you can access your packing from the front, back and sides. Pretty impressive.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 45L (also comes in 30L size)
Padded laptop sleeve
International carry-on approved
Includes sternum strap and stowable hip belt
Water resistant zippers and fabric
Best Clamshell Backpacks for Daily Carry
Db Ramverk Backpack
If you want a simple and super functional clamshell backpack for work, travel, or fun, then the Db Ramverk is the perfect choice. You get full lay-flat access to the main compartment, giving you lots of space to put your things. Inside, you are greeted with mesh pockets that help you keep everything organized. You can also use the front compression straps to attach bulkier items on the outside, creating even more storage options.
One of the best features of the Db Ramverk is that it’s super lightweight. This is thanks to Db’s special rib cage technology that replaces heavy paneling for ABS “ribs” that are strong without adding the bulk. As a result you have a light, slim and protective front loading backpack for daily carry and travel.
Available in 21L, 26L and 32L sizes
15” Laptop Compartment
Great quality that rivals more expensive luxury bags
Can be converted to camera bag with Db camera insert
Modern Dayfarer - Dayfarer V2 Backpack
The Dayfarer V2 Backpack is what happens when a brand takes the time to design something truly special, listens to customer feedback and then releases a product that's even better. With its clean and stylish look, it seamlessly transitions between a sleek gym and work backpack. The bottom shoe compartment allows you to seperate shoes or laundry from your clean items. And while it doesn't look like it, the Dayfarer V2 is packed with exterior pockets for quick access. You have a semi-hidden front pocket, side pockets and even a secret back pocket for valuables.
This backpack's clamshell design is a bit different from the other bags we tested. It opens like a clamshell with zippers on the sides but closes traditional lid and buckle on top. Not only does this design allows you to expand the top for additional space but it gives the bag a unique design that sets it apart from the herd. Made of water-repellent ballistic nylon, it keeps your belongings safe and dry in unexpected weather conditions, making it a reliable and stylish choice for all your daily adventures.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24L
Highly water resistant construction: YKK Aquaguard zippers, ballistic nylon with a water repellent coating
16" laptop compartment with water resistant zipper
Separate shoe compartment
NOMATIC BACKPACK
The Nomatic Backpack was created for those who love staying organized. It's the most pocket-filled clam shell backpack we've ever tested, with pockets lining each wall of the main compartment. Plus, there's a quick access panel on the front with even more pockets for your important stuff.
What's even more impressive about the Nomatic Backpack is that it's convertible and expandable. You can tuck away the shoulder straps and carry it like a briefcase using the side handles. And on those extra busy days when you need more space, you can easily expand the backpack in just seconds with its special wrap-around zipper. An expandable and convertible laptop backpack with tons of organization? What can't this backpack do?
Take a look at our Nomatic Backpack review to see this backpack in action.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (expandable to 24L)
Tons of pockets for organization
Water resistant construction
Convertible backpack (backpack to briefcase)
WANDRD PRVKE BACKPACK
The WANDRD PRVKE isn’t your typical clamshell backpack. Instead of just one opening you get a total of 3 different points of access to the main compartment. The PRVKE offers basic top loading access through a classic roll-top while a zippered opening gives you access from the side. Finally, the back is home to a 3/4 zipper that gives you full clamshell access to the main compartment. Pretty neat, right?
This pack is available in multiple sizes so that you can choose the best fit for your needs. WNDRD also gives you the option to include photography gear inserts so that you can transform your PRVKE from a standard EDC backpack to a fully equipped photography bag in minutes. Each PRVKE includes a sternum strap and some seriously comfortable shoulders straps (seriously) but a hip belt is only available as an add-on item.
Check out our WANDRD PRVKE backpack review for more details.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 21L, 31L or 41L options
Completely weather resistant. Durable materials and construction.
Super versatile daily, commuter, travel, photo backpack
THE RIDGE COMMUTER WEATHERPROOF BACKPACK
The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack is a perfect choice for busy urban commuters who need a versatile backpack that works from work to the weekend. It looks simple and professional for the office, but inside, it's packed with lots of pockets and compartments to help you through your busiest days. The Ridge is also made with a waterproof nylon shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers to protect your stuff during rainy days or outdoor adventures in inclement weather.
What makes the Ridge Commuter special is its dual-access design with two different zippers to the main compartment. The first half zipper lets you open it like a regular backpack, and the second 3-sided zipper allows you to fully open it like a clamshell, giving you access to the many pockets inside. This flexibility is one of the reasons we love the Ridge Commuter and believe it's one of the best daily carry clamshell backpacks available today.
Check out our The Ridge Commuter Backpack review for an in-depth look at the features.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 15 liters
Integrated USB mobile charging port with special power bank pocket
Shockproof laptop compartment
Black Ember Shadow
Black Ember has set out to make the perfect waterproof tech backpack for commuters and travelers alike. And we think they have succeeded with the Shadow. This backpack features an incredible amount of organization thanks to its clever pocket placement and intuitive access design.
What’s special about the Shadow is that it tech-focused. Inside the lay-flat clamshell main compartment you'll find a padded tablet and laptop sleeve plus other special mesh pockets designed for chargers and tech accessories. An external zippered pocket even gives you easy access to smaller items and phone charging. All of these great features are protected by YKK Aquaguard zippers and tough waterproof fabric for the ultimate protection against inclement weather.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: Available in 22L and 26L sizes
Amazing tech-focused storage pockets for accessories
Waterproof construction
Can be used as a daily laptop backpack or carry-on backpack thanks to luggage trolley sleeve
5.11 Rush 24 Backpack
Imagine tough-as-nails tactical bag that can be used as a daily laptop backpack, hiking pack or travel bag. That’s the Rush Series of bags by 5.11 in a nutshell.
What we love most about the 5.11 Rush 24 is it’s versatility. The clamshell zipper allows full access to the main compartment for easy packing. Inside is where you’ll find a 15-inch laptop sleeve plus some handy pockets for organization but the real fun is on the outside of the bag.
The Rush 24 is loaded with features that makes it earn its keep as the “do everything bag”. You can find a pocket for a hydration bladder in the back, a fleece pocket for sunglasses on top, and a myriad of MOLLE webbing allows you to expand your storage with modular pouches and accessories to really make this bag your own.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 37L (also available in 24L and 55L)
MOLLE webbing and bottom panel web gear loops for modular attachments
15-inch laptop pocket
Rear hydration compartment
How We Chose These Backpacks
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The main driver for adding a backpack to our list was making sure it was a high-quality backpack, especially for those with an on-the-go travel style and urban travel needs. Investing in a backpack made from durable materials like ballistic nylon, X-Pac fabric, or cotton canvas ensures that it can withstand the rigors of frequent use. A well-crafted clamshell backpack will not only last longer but also provide the necessary protection for your belongings during your adventures, giving you peace of mind wherever you go. Whether you're navigating bustling streets or exploring nature's wonders, having a high-quality backpack ensures you can efficiently pack, access your items, and trust in its reliability for many journeys to come.
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Having high-quality zippers on a clamshell backpack is crucial due to its unique panel loader design. Unlike traditional top-loading backpacks, clamshell backpacks exert more pressure on the zippers when the bag is packed full. More zippers = more chances of a zipper blow out.
To ensure durability and reliability, we found it essential to recommend clamshell bags from brands we know use quality zippers and stand by their construction. Because of this, you might notice that many of the brands we featured include a lifetime warranty. With high-quality zippers, you can confidently use packing cubes and organize loose items inside the backpack, knowing that the zippers will hold up, allowing for easy access and secure closure during your travels and daily adventures.
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At Backpackies, we take backpack design pretty seriously. This is why we put so much emphasis on making sure a backpack has exactly the pockets and compartments you need for daily use and travel. We focused on backpacks that include the essentials plus a little extra.
Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on an adventure, having designated spaces for your belongings can make all the difference. A well-designed backpack is not complete without a laptop compartment to keep your tech safe and accessible. Additionally, compression straps come in handy for compressing the backpack when it's not fully packed, reducing bulk and keeping everything in place. For those who need to carry extra shoes, a dedicated shoe compartment keeps them separate from your other items. Pockets with fleece lining offer protection for delicate items like sunglasses or electronics, preventing scratches and damage. Well-organized compartments allow you to have a designated spot for credit cards, pens, and other essentials, ensuring quick access when needed. Lastly, a water bottle pocket keeps your drink within reach. These are just some of the design features we look for.
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At Backpackies, our primary focus in curating the list of the best clamshell backpacks is ensuring they provide ultimate comfort for both daily use and travel. Comfort is a top priority, and we carefully select backpacks that come equipped with features like sternum straps, padded shoulder straps, and hip belts. These components play a crucial role in distributing the weight of the backpack evenly across the body, reducing strain and ensuring a comfortable carrying experience even during extended wear. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a large backpacking adventure, having the right support and weight distribution is essential to prevent discomfort and fatigue.
15 Backpacks with Secret Compartments - Tested and Reviewed!
We test dozens of bags to find the best backpacks with secret compartments and hidden pockets for travel and daily laptop carry.
A backpack with a secret compartment can be a great way to keep your valuables safe and secure. Whether you're traveling or just running errands, a hidden compartment can provide an added layer of security against theft while also keeping sensitive items out of sight from prying eyes.
In this buying guide, we review our favorite backpacks with secret compartments and explore which ones are the best for everyday carry, school, and travel. We found the WANDRD PRVKE to be the most versatile, while the Knack Convertible Duffel wins the title of the best bag for travel. However, we encourage you to check out all the options we reviewed, as we are sure there is something for everyone!
Video Review
Our Research
Best Backpack with Secret Compartments: WANDRD PRVKE
WANDRD PRVKE
The WANDRD PRVKE backpack is a versatile option for those who need a single bag that can handle all of their carry needs. It can function as a camera bag, travel bag, and daily laptop backpack due to its modular interior that can be customized to fit your needs. It is also available in three different sizes (21L, 31L, 41L) so you can find the one that fits you perfectly.
The PRVKE also has several secret compartments, including a rear valuables pocket and a bottom rainfly compartment that can be used as a secret stash pocket for flat items. It also has semi-hidden pockets for your keys and sunglasses, allowing you to easily stow away important items while still having quick access to them.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 21L (also available in 31L and 41L)
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Highly water resistant design
Modular interior for photography, travel and daily carry
Two secret compartments + two discreet exterior pockets
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The WANDRD PRVKE is our favorite bag with secret compartments due to its modular backpack design, which allows you to use it for travel, photography, and daily laptop carry. Its highly water-resistant design makes it perfect for a variety of adventures.
This backpack has two semi-hidden pockets for tech and keys and two additional secret pockets for stashing important items. That's four spots total for secure carry of essential items like a passport, cash, keys, and small tech items.
In addition to its impressive modular design, the WANDRD PRVKE is available in different sizes to best fit your body type and carry requirements. You can get the PRVKE in 21L, 31L, and 41L sizes. WANDRD also offers a mini size with the PRVKE LITE..
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The WANDRD PRVKE is our favorite secret compartment backpack for its large variety of secure pockets that aren't obvious at first glance. We have divided the hidden pockets and compartments in the WANDRD PRVKE backpack into two categories: discreet pockets and secret hidden pockets.
Discreet Pockets:
Fleece lined tech pocket: The fleece-lined tech pocket can be found on the top rear, right behind the rolltop opening. The black, water-resistant zipper does a great job of obscuring its presence, but the location makes it perfect for quickly grabbing items like sunglasses or tech.
Key garage pocket: The key garage pocket is a small pocket located on the side of the backpack, close to the back panel. Inside, you'll find a key clip and extra room for small items like earbuds or credit cards. When the WANDRD PRVKE is worn, the key garage pocket faces your back to prevent theft. Like the fleece-lined tech pocket, the black, water-resistant zipper obscures its location unless you really look.
Secret Hidden Pockets:
Hidden Back Panel Pocket: This zippered pocket can be found underneath the trolley sleeve strap on the back panel. The pocket itself is hidden inside the lumbar support mesh of the back panel and is large enough to fit a passport, wallet, phone, or any other valuables you need to keep secure. Many backpacks have secret pockets located against the back panel, but few keep them completely hidden the way the WANDRD PRVKE does.
Bottom Rainfly Pocket: There is a secret zippered pocket at the very bottom of the WANDRD PRVKE designed to hold a rainfly. The zipper stays tucked away under a fabric flap, and as long as you keep your hidden items flat (passport, folded documents, cash), then no one will be the wiser that it's in this pocket. It's incredibly sneaky, and it took us months to even find it!
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The Main Compartment
The WANDRD PRVKE has a unique main compartment design that allows for three-way access. The most obvious entry point is through the rolltop enclosure, secured by a metal hook and a strap that can be tightened or loosened. This makes the WANDRD PRVKE an expandable backpack, as the rolltop can be made larger or smaller as needed.
The second mode of main compartment entry is a little less obvious. There is a large clamshell zipper on the back panel that allows lay-flat access to the main compartment. From this entry point, you have access to your organizer panel pockets and laptop sleeve. Those looking for a built-in anti-theft design will love this feature as it secures laptop access when the bag is worn.
The third entry point is a small window pocket located on the side of the PRVKE. When used in conjunction with WANDRD's camera cube, it will provide you with quick access to your camera while on the move. If you choose not to use the PRVKE with a camera cube, this side zipper will allow you to access items inside the main compartment without having to open the entire bag.
Versatile Modular Design
One aspect of the WANDRD PRVKE that isn't talked about much in most reviews is its built-in modularity. As a modular backpack, the PRVKE allows you to configure the inside of the main compartment in a variety of ways to match your carry.
You can purchase the PRVKE with a camera cube to turn it into a split camera backpack. With this configuration, the bottom of the main compartment will be dedicated to your camera gear while the top rolltop portion can be partitioned for general carry.
When traveling, you can remove the camera cube altogether and keep the same "split" configuration to turn the main compartment into two separate compartments. This allows you to keep clothing in one partition and other items in another for better organization while traveling.
Need a backpack for daily carry? No problem! The main compartment can be configured into one large open compartment just like a regular daily backpack. This will allow you to store larger items like a lunch, notebooks, and binders. Thanks to its multi-access main compartment, you can grab items from the top rolltop or through the rear clamshell zipper.
What We Don’t Like
There really isn't a lot about the WANDRD PRVKE that we don't like. It has a laptop sleeve and a secondary tablet sleeve, which is amazing. The external pockets are perfect for quick access to daily and travel essentials, which we love. However, if we had to mention something about the PRVKE that we don't like, it's the internal pocket variety.
The internal pockets are geared more towards photography accessories, which could be a problem if you don't plan on using this backpack as a camera bag. Many of the internal pockets are very small and shallow, designed to accommodate common camera items like SD cards, glass filters, and adapters. If you aren't a photographer, you might find some of these pockets to be too small and have limited use for them.
Best Travel Backpack with Secret Compartment: Knack Convertible Duffel
Knack Convertible Duffel
Knack hits a home run with their Convertible Duffel! This travel bag can switch between backpack and duffel carry, and the main compartment is expandable, allowing you to use the same bag for short and long trips.
The Convertible Duffel has several discreet pockets for safety, including an internal water bottle pocket and a rear laptop compartment that isn’t obvious at first glance. However, the real hidden compartment is located against the luggage sleeve. This pocket is large enough for a passport, a cell phone, and other small valuables and blends in perfectly with the surrounding lining for a true top-secret compartment.
If you are looking for a similar backpack with a secret pocket for daily carry, be sure to check out the Knack Pack Series 2, which features the same hidden compartment.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24L (40L expanded)
Convertible from backpack to duffel bag
Can hold a weekend or full week worth of clothing
15” laptop compartment
Secret compartment located in back panel
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The Knack Convertible Duffel is deceiving at first glance because it does a great job at keeping a minimalist exterior that hides its most important features. But once you start diving in, you'll be surprised by how many great features are packed into such a simple-looking bag.
It's expandable (from 24L to 40L), convertible (duffel to backpack), and the inside is packed with an amazing variety of pockets to keep you organized while on the move. And yes, it also has a secret hidden pocket for valuables that's super hard to find if you aren't privy to its location.
We recommend the Knack Convertible Duffel for business travelers and frequent flyers who need one bag for short and long trips. When compressed, the Knack Convertible Duffel is compact enough to fit underneath most airplane seats, and when fully expanded, it still measures under most airline carry-on bag size requirements. No matter how you configure the Knack Convertible Duffel, it's bound to be your go-to travel bag.
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Knack has managed to design one of the sneakiest hidden compartments we have come across; in fact, it took us a few hours of careful inspection to even find it!
As a travel bag, the Knack Convertible Duffel is equipped with a trolley sleeve on the back panel, so you can attach the bag to rolling luggage. Right underneath this trolley sleeve is where you will find the hidden compartment.
This secret pocket measures around 6 x 6.5 inches and is large enough to hold a passport, cash, jewelry, and more. Once you tuck away the zipper, this pocket blends into the fabric and becomes barely visible for a true hidden spot to keep valuables.
Sneaky Exterior Pockets
Along with the super secret back pocket, the Knack Convertible Duffel does a great job at being discreet about all of its exterior pockets. Instead of your basic mesh water bottle pocket, Knack has included a discreet interior water bottle pocket that can be accessed from the side of the bag. Not only does this design keep germs away from your water bottle while traveling, it also gives the Convertible Duffel a cleaner appearance.
The second compartment that can be accessed from the exterior is the rear laptop compartment. The black-on-black zipper and fabric combo makes this compartment discreet, yet easily accessible for peace of mind while traveling.
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The Expandable Main Compartment
The bulk of your storage and organization will be found inside the main compartment, which is equipped with a lockable zipper that can be used with a standard TSA lock. Once open, you will be greeted with an organization panel with spots for pens and cables, as well as fleece-lined and mesh pockets for a tablet, sunglasses, and accessories.
The expandable packing compartment starts at 24 liters when compressed and expands up to 40 liters. 24 liters gives you enough packing room for an overnight stay or weekend trip, while the expanded size gives you about the same packing room as standard carry-on size rolling luggage.
To expand the main compartment, you have to engage the hidden zipper that wraps around the exterior of the Convertible Duffel. This zipper was designed to stay discreet for a cleaner appearance when the bag is compressed and is not readily visible. Expanding the bag takes seconds, and being able to double its capacity is one of the winning features of this travel bag.
Switching Between Backpack and Duffel
The Knack Convertible Duffel has one of the simplest mechanisms for switching between modes of carry that we have ever used. Many backpack brands overcomplicate the process, but Knack keeps it incredibly simple.
To switch between duffel and backpack modes, you just have to engage a zipper on the top of the back panel where the backpack shoulder straps are stored. Simply clip the shoulder straps to the D-rings at the bottom of the bag and you have a fully functional backpack. To switch to duffel mode, you just tuck the shoulder straps back into their pocket and clip the single duffel shoulder strap to the side D-rings. It's all a very intuitive process, and we have to commend Knack for keeping it so simple.
Another point to note is that both duffel and backpack modes feel complete. Many other brands make great duffel bags that feel terrible as backpacks, and vice versa, but the Knack Convertible Duffel does both very well. The shoulder straps and back panel are what you would find in Knack's other backpacks and are as comfortable as a native backpack. The size of the Convertible Duffel also feels just right in both duffel and backpack mode.
What We Don’t Like
A small gripe we have with the Knack Convertible Duffel is with its laptop compartment. Although generously padded, there is no false bottom to protect the laptop from bumps and drops.
A false bottom leaves additional space between the bottom of the laptop sleeve and the bottom of the bag itself to prevent the laptop from bottoming out and hitting the ground if the bag were ever dropped.
It's a small detail that makes a big difference when it comes to protecting expensive tech. Unfortunately, the laptop compartment of the Knack Convertible Duffel goes all the way to the edge, depriving your laptop of this extra protection. We have to admit that this is a hypercritical detail to complain about, but we had to mention it. All in all, this bag is pretty awesome.
Best Anti-Theft Backpack with Hidden Compartment: Pacsafe Go
Pacsafe Go Anti-Theft Backpack
Do you know what’s better than a backpack with a secret compartment? An anti-theft bag built from the ground up to prevent snooping and theft altogether. The Pacsafe Go takes a ground-up approach to security by offering the Fort Knox of backpacks in a simple and unassuming design that won’t draw much attention when worn in public.
The main compartment and front pocket are equipped with integrated locks to prevent pickpocketing while the fabric itself is reinforced with steel wire mesh to counter “slash and grab” theft in crowded areas.
As for secret compartments, the Pacsafe Go features a hidden back panel pocket that’s large enough to fit multiple items like a phone, passport, and wallet. When the bag is worn, this creates a hidden compartment for major peace of mind against theft of valuables.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 25L (also available in smaller 15L size)
15” Laptop sleeve inside lockable main compartment
Self-locking zippers, reinforced anti-slash fabric and bag can be attached to table or chair leg to lock down to protect from bag theft.
Hidden security pocket located in back panel
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What makes the Pacsafe GO different from other backpacks with secret compartments is that it was built from the ground up as an anti-theft backpack. Secret compartments are great, but a complete anti-theft design that protects all of your important stuff is even better.
Unlike other anti-theft backpacks that give you a futuristic minimalist design, the Pacsafe GO was designed to blend in and not draw much attention. In fact, it looks like any old basic backpack at first glance, and we are pretty sure that's the whole point. The anti-theft features are discreet, and the overall design doesn't scream "steal me please."
We recommend the Pacsafe GO for travelers looking for an airline personal item backpack when they fly and a dedicated daypack when they arrive at their destination. Students will also benefit from the roomy main compartment for their books and class items, plus the anti-theft features to prevent theft on campus or during busy commutes.
The Pacsafe GO comes in a 25L size and a more compact 15L size. We tested the larger 25L size for this buying guide.
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The Secret Compartment
The secret compartment on the Pacsafe GO can be found against the back panel. It's a simple flat zippered pocket that measures 10 x 6.5 inches, which is large enough to stash airplane or bus tickets, a passport, and cash. When the backpack is being worn, this pocket becomes incredibly discreet to prevent pickpockets.
The Main Compartment
The main compartment gives you 25 liters of packing space, which is enough for an overnight trip or a busy day on campus. We found that you can easily fit multiple large textbooks, notebooks, and binders, or conversely, 2-3 changes of clothing if you are traveling.
Inside the main compartment is where you will also find a padded sleeve that can fit a laptop up to 15 inches. On the other side of the compartment, you'll find a single pen pocket and an RFID-blocking pocket that is just large enough to fit a passport.
Built-in Anti Theft Features
Like all Pacsafe bags, the Go is filled to the brim with anti-theft features to prevent pickpocketing and theft. For starters, the main compartment zipper is self-locking without the need for an additional lock. This is thanks to Pacsafe's "Zip Clip" design, which allows you to attach the zipper to an integrated clip to prevent the zippers from being used once locked down. One small design detail that we really like is how the main compartment zippers can be hidden completely by tucking them into the side of the bag once locked, adding another barrier of anti-theft protection.
The front compartment zipper has a different locking mechanism called a "dock lock," which takes seconds to implement. Although not as robust as the main compartment's Zip Clip, this design prevents passersby from opening your front compartment zipper. This design does take some time to get used to, but it works wonderfully when implemented.
But the anti-theft features don't end at lockable zippers; there are anti-theft features that are built into the bag itself. Our favorite has to be Pacsafe's eXomesh slashguard technology, a built-in stainless steel wire mesh that's embedded into the fabric. This technology makes your bag cut-resistant for ultimate peace of mind in crowded public spaces where slash-and-grabs are a common form of theft.
Pacsafe's slashguard technology is also used on the shoulder straps, which are reinforced with wire to prevent cuts and slashes. This leads us to one unique anti-theft feature that Pacsafe offers - being able to lock the entire bag onto a chair or table leg thanks to a detachable and lockable shoulder strap. When combined with slashguard technology, this feature gives you confidence in crowded cafes or any other public areas where bag theft may be a threat.
What We Don’t Like
Our one complaint about the Pacsafe Go is that the side water bottle pockets aren't stretchy! We can comfortably fit slim bottles like a 24oz Hydroflask bottle, but larger diameter bottles such as a 32oz Nalgene are a struggle to fit in. The pockets may stretch over time, but in the meantime, it's a pretty tight fit!
Best Laptop Backpack with Secret Compartments: Able Carry Daily Plus
Able Carry Daily Plus
The Able Carry Daily Plus is an updated redesign of the popular Daily Backpack, a laptop backpack for urban commuters, that adds more pockets for increased organization and a new, highly water-resistant construction.
Able Carry includes a couple of secret compartments in the Daily Plus such as a security pocket in the back panel large enough for a phone, passport, or wallet and a super-hidden pocket that is tucked away above the laptop sleeve for securing secret stashes. Of all the backpacks we have tested, the Able Carry Daily Plus offers some of the most clever secret compartments yet and we would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a solid laptop backpack for daily carry.
If you are looking for a backpack with similar hidden pockets you can go smaller with the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag (13L) or larger with the Able Carry Max Backpack (30L)
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 21L
16” Laptop sleeve and secondary tablet sleeve
Made with waterproof X-Pac textile with water resistant zippers
Two hidden compartments: internal and external
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Able Carry offers a great all-around laptop backpack for daily commutes and travel with the Daily Plus.
The Daily Plus excels in its variety of pockets, including a protective "tech station" with padded sleeves for a laptop and tablet, plus numerous extra pockets for accessories. In addition to your everyday carry pockets, there are a few secret compartments that provide added security for items you want to keep hidden.
We also appreciate the high-quality materials and construction that Able Carry provides. From the water-resistant exterior to the internal lining fabric, everything feels like top-notch quality and is enjoyable to use.
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The Able Carry Daily Plus has a few secret compartments that emphasize security and privacy.
The first is a discreet pocket located in the back panel above the shoulder straps. It's fairly roomy, measuring around 7.5” x 8”, and provides enough space to store multiple items, such as a passport, phone, wallet, and cash. The zipper to this compartment is hidden, making it a secure pocket against theft when the backpack is worn.
The second hidden compartment is a super secret stash pocket located on the inside of the main compartment, above the laptop sleeve. Behind the hidden zipper is a small pocket that's slightly larger than a credit card, completely hidden and ideal for secret stashes you want to keep from prying eyes. It's also a convenient location for GPS trackers, like an Apple Airtag or Tile tracker.
Another subtle compartment is the internal water bottle pocket located on the side of the bag, which can fit a water bottle up to 1 liter. The zipper can be challenging to spot at first and it's a great way to keep your water bottle safe during commutes or travel.
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One of the design details we appreciate about the Daily Carry Plus is its emphasis on tech protection. The 16-inch laptop sleeve and 11-inch tablet sleeve are located inside the main compartment and are designed to "float" in the middle of the bag, keeping your laptop and tablet away from any impact points, including the floor, due to a generous false bottom. While most backpacks have laptop sleeves, few design them with as much attention to detail as Able Carry.
What We Don’t Like
There isn't much we don't like about this backpack, and that's the honest truth. However, if you need a backpack for travel packing, the 21L main compartment may be too small. But Able Carry has you covered with the larger Able Carry Max, which offers many of the same great design details, including similar discreet pockets.
One potential drawback is that, although X-Pac is a robust, lightweight, and highly water-resistant material, it has a sporty appearance that may not be suitable for those who need a more professional-looking bag for the office. If you're in this category, keep reading for our top pick for a work backpack.
Best Work Backpack with Hidden Compartment: Nomatic Backpack
Nomatic Backpack
The Nomatic Backpack takes organization to another level by offering over a dozen different pockets and compartments while keeping the exterior sleek enough to wear to a business meeting in style. When we say this is a backpack with lots of pockets, we mean it!
But the Nomatic Backpack is more than a daily carry dream. Not in a backpack mood? No problem, tuck away the shoulder straps and carry the Nomatic Backpack as a briefcase. Need more room? The Nomatic Backpack is expandable. What about your super important items like a passport or credit cards? Spin the Nomatic Backpack around and you’ll find a secret pocket to keep your valuables safe and sound.
If you are looking specifically for a travel backpack then check out the larger Nomatic Travel Backpack that includes the same hidden back pocket.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (also available in smaller 14L version)
Water resistant construction
Expandable to give you 20% more room
Secret compartment is tucked away in back panel
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If we had to write an in-depth review of the Nomatic Backpack, it would probably exceed ten thousand words as there are just that many features in this bag. However, for now, you will have to make do with our summarized review.
We will say this: The Nomatic Backpack is full of surprises, with cable passthrough ports for charging and stowable shoulder straps that enable conversion into a briefcase. It's only natural that Nomatic includes a hidden back pocket.
Yes, we know that compared to other bags, the backpack with a hidden back pocket may seem like a cliché. But what Nomatic does differently is that they actually attempt to hide the secret pocket behind a foam panel instead of leaving it exposed. With its great quality and unique design details, we highly recommend the Nomatic Backpack as one of the best work backpacks for professionals currently available.
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The secret pocket is located at the back and is tucked behind one of the back panels, making it stay completely hidden when the Nomatic Backpack is worn, and obscured even when the backpack is not being worn. This design makes the Nomatic Backpack an excellent option for anyone looking for a backpack with a discreet back pocket, instead of the more common lumbar back pockets seen in other bags.
The back pocket is large enough to fit a passport book (4.94” x 3.5”) and just barely fits an iPhone 13 (5.78” x 2.32” x .30”), although some maneuvering is needed to place the phone inside the pocket.
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There are plenty of backpacks with many pockets, but few have a sleeker design than the Nomatic Backpack. Every wall of each compartment is lined with pockets! In total, we counted 27 pockets, including the hidden back compartment.
The front organizer compartment is where you can organize smaller items you need quick access to. This is where you'll find the RFID-safe pocket that can be locked with a TSA lock, adding an extra layer of protection. There are also smaller pockets for pens and stretch pockets that are perfect for small items like chapstick or a phone charger.
The main compartment is where most of your storage will be and it's equipped with a "mobile office": a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a tablet sleeve, and a third sleeve for documents, plus special pockets for tech items like a keyboard, mouse, and external hard drives. The walls of the main compartment are lined with stretch and zippered pockets for easy organization of tech chargers, sunglasses, keys, and more.
Expandable, Convertible and Always Professional
The Nomatic Backpack is both expandable and convertible. There is a wrap-around zipper on the outside of the bag that allows you to expand the main compartment from 20 liters to 24 liters. That 4 liter difference is about the size of a light jacket.
The backpack can also be carried as a briefcase on days you want to look more professional. The back panel is divided into two padded panels that can be unbuttoned at the top to allow you to tuck away the shoulder straps quickly and switch to briefcase mode. If you're looking for an attractive convertible backpack for work that can be carried on business trips and important meetings, the Nomatic Backpack is a great choice.
What We Don’t Like
Although the Nomatic Backpack excels in organization, it doesn't have much room for bulky items like lunch boxes, shoes, or camera cubes, even when expanded.
If you prioritize organization and plenty of pockets for your daily or travel essentials, the Nomatic Backpack is a great choice. However, if your packing style requires more open space for bulkier items, you may want to consider the Nomatic Travel Backpack, which provides more packing space in a similar design.
Best Budget Backpack with Secret Compartment: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
The Matein Laptop Backpack is one of the best-selling backpacks on Amazon, and it's easy to see why once you delve into all it has to offer. Along with three roomy compartments and dozens of smaller pockets, you also have an external USB port for on-the-go charging and secret compartment to keep important items safe.
There are two covert pockets on the Matein Laptop Backpack - the first is a front pocket with a hidden zipper that's large enough for a small notebook and other items you need quick access to. The second secret pocket is an anti-theft pocket located against the back panel. This rear pocket stays completely hidden when the backpack is worn to prevent pickpockets and theft. Not bad for such an affordable backpack!
Features at a glance:
Capacity: ~25L
15.6” laptop compartment with tablet sleeve
Integrated external USB charging port
Hidden pocket in back panel + discreet front pocket
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The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, stylish, and functional backpack at an affordable price. It is one of the best-selling backpacks on Amazon for a reason!
This backpack stands out for its variety of pockets and compartment design. It offers a good balance of large open compartments and smaller pockets for organization. Additionally, it has a built-in USB charging port.
We recommend the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack for students on a budget, travelers who need ample organization, and daily commuters who don't want to spend a lot on a laptop backpack. Although "travel" is in the name, the backpack is highly versatile.
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There are two pockets on the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack that could be considered hidden: the front-side zippered compartment and the back anti-theft pocket.
Discreet Front Compartment: There are two zippered pockets on the front of the backpack. The first is a visible horizontal zippered pocket, while the second is a little more concealed. This large horizontal zippered pocket is located behind the front panel and is not immediately noticeable.
Hidden Anti-Theft Back Pocket: Matein has added a hidden compartment on the back panel, located behind the lumbar cushioning. This anti-theft pocket remains unseen when the bag is worn and is large enough to hold a passport, wallet, or phone.
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As a Travel Backpack
Matein does not specify the capacity of the Travel Laptop Backpack, but it could be estimated to be around 25 liters. The main compartment is ideal for packing 1-3 days' worth of clothing, while the rest of the backpack can be used for personal and travel essentials.
The rear compartment is a separate tech compartment, which features a padded sleeve for a 15.6" laptop, a tablet sleeve, and space for a book, magazine, or large notebook. The front compartment is the organizer compartment and has several pockets for pens, chargers, and other small items.
This 3-way partitioned design allows for packing clothing in the main compartment, quick access to tech from the rear compartment, and organizing smaller travel essentials like headphones, water bottles, and reading material in the front organizer compartment and various pockets.
As a School Bookbag
We recommend the Matein Laptop Backpack for students seeking a budget-friendly option. The main compartment is spacious enough to store multiple large binders, notebooks, and books, and the separate laptop compartment offers a convenient way to keep your tech separate from your main carrying items.
We also appreciate the front organizer compartment for storing items like pens, graphing calculators, and other small personal items. The exceptional organization is what led us to recommend the Matein Laptop Backpack as the best affordable medical school backpack, but it could also be a great choice for high school or undergraduate students.
What we don’t like about this backpack
Our primary complaint about this backpack is that it feels rather flimsy, especially compared to other premium options on our list. The use of thin lining material on the interior and lightweight materials for the back panel and shoulder straps contribute to this feeling of cheapness. These small details add up and help explain why the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is so reasonably priced.
Is this a deal-breaker? No. You can't beat the value for the price. The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack offers great compartments, laptop and tablet sleeves, and even a discreet back pocket for added security during commuting or travel. For such an affordable backpack, one can't really complain.
More Great Backpacks We Tested
The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof
Constructed with a waterproof nylon shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers, The Ridge Commuter Backpack is a weatherproof backpack made with tech-centric carry in mind, thanks to a shock-resistant laptop compartment and tons of pockets to organize your accessories. A really awesome feature is the dual-zipper main compartment that gives you access through a regular top zipper or a 3/4 clamshell zipper for full access to all the pockets inside, making packing and unpacking a breeze.
The secret pocket can be found in the back panel, but what sets it apart from other similarly placed security compartments is that this pocket is fully lined with RFID-blocking material. This means you can hide important items like credit cards and passports inside this pocket to protect yourself from identity theft.
To learn more check out our full The Ridge Commuter backpack review.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L
15” shock-resistant laptop compartment
Weatherproof exterior: waterproof shell + YKK Aquaguard zippers
RFID-blocking secret pocket in the back panel
Able Carry Thirteen Daybag
The Able Carry Thirteen Daybag takes the best design features of the 20L Able Carry Daily Backpack and scales it down to a smaller 13L package. S-curve shoulder straps offer a more comfortable women’s fit while the compact profile provides a better fit for those with shorter torsos. Its myriad of pockets and clever design details is what makes the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag one of our favorite women’s work backpacks and one we would recommend to anyone looking for a compact bag for the daily carry.
If you are looking for a small backpack with secret compartments then the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag offers the motherlode. This backpack offers small hidden pockets in the shoulder straps can fit metro cards and credit cards. The back panel also features a secret security pocket for storage of a wallet, phone, or passport. Lastly, there is a semi-hidden pocket inside the main compartment above the laptop sleeve that provides extra security for important items.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 13L
14” laptop sleeve and secondary sleeve for tablet or notebook
S-curve shoulder straps for a better women’s fit
4 secret compartments: shoulder straps, back panel and above laptop sleeve
Knack Pack Series 2
It's hard to write a quick summary of the Knack Pack Series 2 because of how packed with features this backpack is. Where do we start?
For one, it has a secret packing compartment that stays hidden when not in use but expands to almost double the carrying capacity for travel or gym days. It also allows you to tuck away the shoulder straps to use the Knack Series 2 as a briefcase on days when you want to look a bit more dapper. And the pockets! There are so many pockets for organizing your daily essentials. We could go on and on about this backpack, but we'll stop here.
The secret compartment on the Knack Pack Series 2 can be found in the back panel behind the luggage trolley sleeve. This sneaky pocket blends in with the lining and is super hard to find if you don't already know it's there. Do you want a versatile daily + travel backpack with a super-secret pocket? This is it; we promise.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24L (35L expanded)
15” Laptop Compartment
Hidden packing compartment that expands for travel
Secret pocket located behind the trolley sleeve
Types of Secret Compartments
There are a few common types of secret compartments on a backpack. It turns out, there are only so many spots where you can place one! Each one is a little different, and we explain each type below so that you know what to look for when shopping for a new backpack.
Back Panel Compartments
The most common secret compartment location is against the back panel. This isn't for lack of creativity on the designers' part but is commonly used because this location is a tried and true safe haven from sticky fingers. When the backpack is being worn, these back panel pockets lay flat against your back, blocking off access to the pocket completely.
The best backpacks with secret compartments design their hidden back panel pocket so that you cannot notice the pocket at all, even when the backpack is not being worn. But usually, just having a pocket against the back panel is enough to deter most thefts.
Shoulder Straps Pockets
A less common location for a secret pocket is on the shoulder straps. These are usually small pockets for quick access to items like a subway metro card, a credit card, or other very small item that you want to keep hidden. These shoulder strap pockets are best for those who need quick access to small items and find back panel pockets to be too cumbersome to use.
Internal Secret Compartments
Some hidden compartments are found inside the backpack instead of the exterior. Think of these as Inception compartments - a compartment inside a compartment. If you are serious about keeping things hidden, then you'll want to go with a backpack with an internal secret compartment.
Who Is This Guide For?
Travelers Who Need Security
Why would anyone need a backpack with secret compartments? The first group of people we thought of is travelers who want to prevent theft. This is especially true in big urban centers in Europe and America where large crowds, cramped public transportation, and tourist attractions entice a number of pickpocketing schemes.
Valuables such as a passport, visa, credit cards, and cash are vulnerable to theft and can spell disaster if they go missing. Although there are plenty of ways to prevent common thieves, simply having a secure pocket inside the backpack you already carry can be a simple solution to the problem.
Everyday Carry with Discretion
This guide is also for anyone who just wants to keep personal belongings hidden from prying eyes inside their daily carry backpack. This can be especially useful if you're carrying something that you don't want anyone else to see, such as a gift for a friend or a sensitive item.
Although there are a fair number of backpacks with secret compartments, many brands don't advertise them, and those who do don't go into much detail as to where they are. In fact, some pockets took us months of use to find, and others we had to ask the brand to finally tell us where it was. But today, we will be sharing those secret pockets with you!
How We Tested These Backpacks
We spent a few months researching different backpacks with secret compartments before compiling our final list. The testing was done both in real-world scenarios (travel, daily carry) as well as in our studio to make sure each bag met our standards before recommending. There were a few backpacks that we either did not get to test or did not make the cut; some of these bags are listed at the end of this article for you to consider.
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Testing the secret compartments
A question we had was what people carry inside secret compartments, so we decided to only use common valuables so that our audience can understand the size and scale of each compartment in our photos.
Below are the items we used to test each secret compartment and their dimensions:
Passport Book: 4.94” (H) x 3.5” (W) (12.5 cm x 8.9 cm)
Cell Phone (iPhone): 6” (H) x 3” (W) x .3” (D) (15.24 cm x 7.62 cm x .76 cm)
Wireless Earbuds (Apple Airpods): 1.83” (H) x 2.14” (W) x .84” (D) (4.6 cm x 5.4 cm x 2.1 cm)
GPS/Bluetooth Tracker (Tile Mate): 1.37” (H) x 1.37” (W) x .24” (D) (3.5 cm x 3.5 cm x .62 cm)
We believe that exterior security pockets should always be large enough to fit at least a passport or phone, as these are the types of valuables that you need quick access to when traveling or commuting. Hidden interior pockets could afford to be smaller, to accommodate items such as Bluetooth trackers and other small items where the goal is to conceal the item being stored.
Is it a good quality backpack?
In addition to having a secret compartment, we took construction quality and comfort into consideration when rating and reviewing each backpack.
Construction and Materials - Backpacks with great zipper quality, robust stitching, and quality textiles such a nylon floated to the top. A great backpack should feel as good as it looks.
Water Resistant Construction - Water resistant outer materials and zippers were a huge plus when choosing these backpacks.
Comfortable Back Panel and Shoulder Straps - adequately padded shoulder straps, padded back panels and the inclusion of chest straps all tied into our ratings.
Is the backpack well designed?
With such a wide breadth of different designs available, we categorized each of our favorite backpacks so that you can consider each by use case. Our favorite backpack for travel might not be the best choice for someone looking for a reliable laptop backpack for daily commuting and vice versa, but these are just our suggestions.
Travel Backpacks
Travel backpacks come in two flavors: large travel bags for packing and smaller travel daypacks to use once at your destination. Larger travel bags include features such as large packing compartments for clothing, easy access to travel comfort essentials such as laptops, tablets, headphones, and water bottles, as well as secure storage for travel tickets and passports/visas.
Travel daypacks are not too different from your average daily laptop backpack, except they may have a few more extra features to make your life easier when on the move on vacation or on a work trip. These could include being small enough to use as an airline personal item backpack, having a trolley sleeve to attach to rolling luggage, and extra security pockets for when you visit busy tourist areas where the likelihood of theft is higher.
Daily Laptop Backpacks
A daily laptop backpack will be your go-to if you need a reliable backpack that can be used for work, school, and general commuting. The design emphasis on these bags is comfort, safe laptop carry, and enough organization for your daily essentials that will "live" inside your backpack. Think of items such as headphones, tech chargers, and sunglasses.
More Backpacks With Secret Compartments to Consider
1) Troubadour Apex
External Secret Pocket
We understand that not everyone needs a fancy bag, but why wouldn't you treat yourself to something special? The Troubadour Apex has always been a favorite men's backpack for work due to its mature design details and sleek minimalist style.
What the Troubadour Apex excels at is its functional pockets and compartments for daily carry and travel. It has spots for a laptop, pens, phone, tech accessories, water bottles, and more. These items are easily accessible during daily commutes or busy travel days.
The hidden pocket can be found between the shoulder straps on the back panel and is just large enough to hold a phone. This pocket remains hidden and out of sight unless you know to look for it, even when the bag is worn.
2) Public Rec Pro Pack Plus
Hidden Back Pockets
The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus is the backpack we like to recommend to anyone looking for a professional work and travel backpack or a work and gym backpack, thanks to its sleek design and thoughtful pocket placement that's perfect for roaming professionals.
What makes the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus backpack special is that it offers an attractive minimalist exterior while keeping enough pockets and compartments for daily organization. It manages to do this through discreet pockets that aren't very obvious at first glance. The largest compartment is the hidden shoe compartment at the bottom, whose zipper blends into the bottom of the backpack.
Another security pocket for a passport or wallet can be located on the side of the back panel. The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus also features a smaller hidden pocket behind its brand label on the back panel that's just big enough for something like a credit card or metro pass.
3) Revelry Supply The Explorer
Internal Hidden Pocket
Revelry Supply is known for their innovative, smell-proof bags, and with The Explorer, the brand offers the same technology in a more compact everyday carry backpack. In addition to being smell-proof, The Explorer is all about privacy and security. The main compartment is equipped with lockable zippers and a secret pocket can be found inside the main compartment for even more privacy for secret stashes. What makes this secret pocket special is that the lining of the bag obscures the pocket for a hidden-in-plain-sight effect.
4) Boundary Supply Errant Pack
RFID Blocking Back Pocket
The Boundary Supply Errant Pack is a versatile laptop backpack that pushes the envelope in terms of design. Some of its best features include magnetic buckles, separate laptop and tablet sleeves, a bottom shoe compartment, and the ability to access the main compartment from the top flap or from a rear clamshell zipper.
The secret compartment can be found on the back panel and features RFID-blocking protection for safeguarding a passport and wallet.
5) Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2
Internal Hidden Pocket
Designed as a modular backpack for camera, travel, and daily laptop carry, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is as versatile as backpacks come. This bag allows for top access to the main compartment from the top flap, in addition to side access to the inside through its innovative zipper design.
The secret compartment on the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 can be found on the inside of the top flap and is just large enough to fit a passport or wallet. It's one of those pockets that can be challenging to find at first, so make sure you really look!
6) 5.11 RUSH Backpack
External Front Pocket
The 5.11 Rush Tactical Backpack is EDC ready with its internal admin panel, improved laptop sleeve, and ample compartments to keep you organized. 5.11 offers the RUSH in various sizes, ranging from the compact 24L RUSH12 to the spacious 55L RUSH72 so you are bound to find one that’s right for you.
The secret compartment is a hook-and-loop concealed carry compartment located on the front of the bag. Even if you're not looking for a CCW backpack, the RUSH still provides excellent daily organization and discreet quick-access compartments to secure your gear.
Best Backpacks with Shoe Compartments - Tested and Reviewed!
Looking for the best backpack with a shoe compartment? We tested almost a dozen backpacks to find our top picks across travel, gym-carry, sports and daily laptop carry categories.
Whether you need a reliable backpack for the gym, work or travel having a backpack with a shoe compartment is the easiest way to carry an extra pair of shoes from point A to B.
In this buying guide we test almost a dozen backpacks to find out which ones float to the top. We like the King Kong EDGE as a dedicated gym pack and Pacsafe EXP35 for its great anti-theft features. We also feature our favorite backpacks with shoe compartments for work, travel and those on a budget to make sure there is something that matches your carry needs.
Video Review
Overview: Our Top Picks
KING KONG EDGE
Versatile work, travel and gym backpack with shoe compartment.
The King Kong EDGE is a sleek, durable and feature-packed gym backpack with shoe compartment that has quickly become one of our favorites. This is thanks to its large 35-liter main compartment that’s perfect for training gear like weight lifting belts, boxing gloves and other bulkier items. On light duty days the magnetic buckle side straps allow you to compress the backpack for a sleeker profile.
But the King Kong EDGE is more than just a gym bag! Features like a separate admin compartment, 17” laptop compartment and multiple organizer pockets also give it the ability to turn into a work or travel backpack when you need it. Whether you are packing for a workout day, weekend trip or a busy work week - the EDGE will have all of the room you need to conquer it all in style!
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 35L
Huge padded 17” laptop compartment
Large pack-flat clamshell main compartment with plenty of internal pockets
Versatile: gym, work, daily or travel bag
25 Year Warranty
Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket
PACSAFE EXP35
A travel backpack with an innovative anti-theft design, plenty of storage and a convenient shoe compartment.
The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 backpack is perfect for those who need a travel backpack with a shoe compartment that has the features to also adapt to work commutes and gym days.
Some of its best features include a tough duffle-inspired construction, an amazing array of organization pockets and an advanced anti-theft design to keep your gear safe from theft, pick-pockets and RFID attacks. The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 can be best described as the “Fort Knox” of backpacks and it showcases a gold-standard in anti-theft design.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 35L
Padded 16” laptop sleeve
Serious anti-theft design with self-locking zippers, anti-slash fabric and RFID-blocking pockets
Lots of pockets to organize passports, pens, keys and smaller items.
Shoe Compartment: bottom pocket
The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is a roomy 29-liter backpack with plenty of organization and a clever shoe compartment that is accessed through the bottom of the bag. This backpack is perfect for those who need a reliable school or sports backpack without breaking the bank.
But despite its affordable price, the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to features. Small details like fleece lined laptop and valuables pockets, water resistant exterior fabric and metal zippers allows the Hustle to punch above its class.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 29L
Available in over a dozen colors
Laptop sleeve fits up to 15” MacBook Pro
Roomy main compartment and secondary admin compartment for smaller items
Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket
More Great Backpacks We Tested
Public Rec Pro Pack Plus
A stylish office-friendly backpack with separate compartments for work and travel packing.
The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus makes a great backpack with a shoe compartment because it doesn’t scream “gym backpack” - instead it offers a minimalist exterior that is clean enough to wear to the office while at the same time offering incredible daily organization.
Along with a sneaky hidden shoe pocket, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus offers a clever partitioned design that allows you to keep your travel (or gym) packing and work items completely separated. This means no rummaging through sweatpants to get to your work laptop. Throughout the backpack you’ll also find lots of sweet features like an easy-access phone pocket, water bottle pockets and water resistant materials and zippers for peace of mind on rainy days.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 26.5L
Separate rear “work” and front “packing” compartments
15” padded laptop sleeve and separate tablet sleeve
Versatile design can be used for commuting, gym or travel
Water resistant design
Shoe compartment: bottom pocket
Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack
Sleek low-profile backpack with shoe compartment for those who want just one “everything” bag.
The Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack is our favorite backpack for work and the gym, thanks to its thoughtful design that offers a seamless transition from a long day at the office to workout sessions. Throughout its design, you’ll find numerous great pockets for organizing your daily essentials within a water-resistant construction that keeps your most important items safe on rainy days.
Travel-specific features like a luggage trolley sleeve and handles for easy access in overhead compartments also make the Dayfarer V2 an easy pick for flights. The bottom shoe compartment is just one of the many fantastic features in a long array of clever pockets for items like toiletries and gym gear, making the Modern Dayfarer V2 a true “everything backpack” in one streamlined package.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 24L
16” laptop compartment protected with water resistant zipper
Tough water resistant construction
Lots of internal pockets for organization
Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket
KING KONG PLUS26
A rugged feature-packed gym backpack with exterior shoe pocket.
With the PLUS26, King Kong offers a heavy-hitter that really shines in a sea of mediocre gym bags. This backpack just makes sense. For one, the shoe pocket is found on the front of the backpack instead of the inside. This means better ventilation for your shoes while also avoiding taking up precious space in the main compartment.
There is also the dual access 26-liter main compartment that is just large enough for your gym essentials without making the bag too bulky for daily carry. The main compartment has a top-loading access zipper for daily use while the back zipper allows for full clamshell access to the inside. It’s design features like these that makes the King Kong PLUS26 easily one of our favorite gym backpacks.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 26L
Padded laptop sleeve
25 year guarantee
Dual-access main compartment (top loading and clamshell)
Shoe compartment: External front pocket
The Troubadour Pioneer is perfect for someone who wants a backpack with a shoe compartment with a sophisticated professional design and premium materials. At 23.5 liters the Pioneer is the most compact and streamlined out of any of the backpacks we have tested but this could really work for those in more professional environments where carrying a bulky backpack isn’t an option.
Despite its minimalist exterior, the Troubadour Pioneer is packed full of pockets and compartments for organization. The main compartment has a great variety of zippered pockets and smaller slip pockets to organize you daily work items. On the outside you’ll find even more pockets for quick-access to essentials.
The bottom shoe compartment offers a discreet way to carry shoes or extra clothing and can easily fit up to a size 12 (US) pair of men’s running shoes. This is also one of the only backpacks we have tested that features built-in vents to allow the compartment to breathe to prevent the trapping of stinky odors. Although a small detail it makes all of the difference!
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 23.5L
17” laptop sleeve that can be accessed with dedicated side zipper
Great internal pockets for organizing daily work items
Sleek professional design with water resistant construction
Shoe compartment: bottom pocket
Our Research
Who is This Guide For
There is a wide variety of people who may need a reliable backpack with a shoe compartment and we hade three specific types of people in mind.
Athletes and Gym Go-ers
Sports and gym backpacks offer sportier casual design often with activity-specific features such as sports equipment, pockets for balls and accommodation for protective gear like gloves and pads. The most important feature in a sports and gym backpack is the main compartment and whether or not your specific gear will be able to fit inside of it.
If you find yourself changing into your workout shoes at your destination to the gym or sports practice then you a sports or gym backpack with a shoe compartment may be what you need to separate your shoes from the rest of your clean items during transport.
Although there are tons of different types of athletic shoes, the backpacks we reviewed here all can fit running shoes, trainers and cleats.
Travelers
Traveling with shoes calls for a backpack with a shoe compartment. It’s the simplest way to pack with shoes and keep them separate from clean items. Shoe compartments also double as laundry compartment and give you the ability to separate your dirty clothing from your clean items during your trip. Say goodbye to packing extra laundry bags!
Travel backpacks are usually larger (30L+) than everyday laptop backpacks to accommodate for travel packing. Our favorite travel backpacks open like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking or feature expandable compartments for even more versatility.
Besides the larger capacity, the main difference between a travel backpack and a daily bag is its emphasis on security and travel features. Examples include lockable zippers, pockets for a passport, extra exterior handles and a trolley sleeve for attaching the bag to rolling luggage. If you are planning on using your backpack primarily for travel then going with a travel-specific backpack with a shoe compartment may be the way to go.
One Bag For Work and Gym/Travel
If you find yourself often switching between a daily carry backpack for work and a secondary backpack for gym or travel then you may benefit from a hybrid backpack that combines the best features of each.
A work and gym backpack will have everything you need for your daily work carry plus extra features for your workout gear such as a shoe compartment, water bottle pockets and extra storage for a change of clothing.
A work and travel backpack will often have extra security features such as lockable zippers and RFID-safe pockets as well as the space to accommodate for travel packing while still offering the daily carry features you need for commutes to work.
Unlike backpacks dedicated to the gym or travel, these versatile bags offer a more refined business casual backpack design that won’t look out of place at the office and are usually smaller in size (under 30L) for a more compact look.
How We Tested These Backpacks
We spent a few months researching different backpacks with shoe compartments before compiling our final list. This included real world use as well as testing in our studio to make sure each bag delivered in its promised performance. With each backpack we asked a serious of questions to help us determine its quality.
Is the shoe pocket roomy enough?
We tested each backpack with a women’s size 8 and a men’s size 12 (US sizes) running shoes to judge the roominess of each shoe compartment.
The men’s shoes we used measured 12.5” in length and 4.5” in width. You can use these measurements to compare with your own shoes or use a handy shoe size conversion guide to determine how much room your shoes will take up in comparison.
All of the backpacks tested must at least be able to fit a men’s size 12 running shoes inside the shoe compartment in order to be included in our picks. This provides a guaranteed fit for readers with smaller shoe sizes. In addition, all of our original photography showcases the shoe compartment with a men’s size 12 sneakers so that you can easily compare each compartment.
Note: Boots and larger shoes were not used to test the shoe compartments and we cannot guarantee that the shoe compartments in the backpacks tested will be roomy enough to fit shoes larger than a men’s size 12. If you have questions about whether larger shoes will fit, please contact the respective backpack brand for more information.
Is it a good quality backpack?
In addition to having a shoe pocket, we took construction quality and comfort into consideration when rating and reviewing each backpack.
Construction Materials - Backpacks with great zipper quality, robust stitching, and quality fabrics such a nylon floated to the top. A great backpack should feel as good as it looks.
Water Resistant Construction - Water resistant outer materials and zippers were a huge plus when choosing these backpacks.
Comfortable Back Panel and Shoulder Straps - adequately padded shoulder straps, padded back panels and the inclusion of chest straps all tied into our ratings.
Is the backpack well designed?
Those looking for a backpack with a shoe compartment usually fall into two categories:
Gym backpacks with a shoe compartment
Travel backpacks with a shoe compartment
Most backpacks with shoe pockets can be used for both gym and travel despite the brand marketing specifying one or the other. With this in mind, we tested each backpack for both daily carry situations (work, school) and for travel/gym carry.
Below is a sample of the items we used when testing each backpack:
Daily Carry (Work/School)
Laptop (and tablet if backpack had a tablet sleeve)
3-subject notebook and 1-inch binder
Pens and pencils
Tech chargers (laptop and phone charge, misc cables)
Cell Phone
Apple Airpods or other earbuds
Travel/Gym Carry
Shoes in shoe compartment
1-3x change of clothing
Toiletries bag
For gym: boxing gloves, weight lifting belt and gloves, resistant bands, jump rope, towel
The best backpack with a shoe pocket can carry all of the above and is versatile enough to use as a daily carry backpack as well as a gym or travel bag. What this means is that you can’t go wrong with our top 3 selections and choosing comes down to style preferences and the need for specific features such as exterior laptop compartments or trolley sleeves for attaching the backpack to luggage.
Other important features that determined our likeliness to recommend include the following:
Water bottle pockets
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Smaller pockets for organization
Main compartment size (~30L seems to be the sweet spot for travel/gym carry)
Types of Shoe Compartment Backpacks
There are three common types of backpacks with shoe compartments and each one is a little different. Below is a helpful explanation of each type so you know the difference when shopping for a new backpack.
FRONT ACCESS
Front access backpacks have a front loading shoe pocket that is separate from the main compartment. The main compartment and shoe compartment is usually divided by polyester or nylon material. Some backpacks do a good job at separating the two compartments but others may take up space in the main compartment if the shoe pocket is filled.
Many people prefer shoe compartments with front access because they can retrieve their shoes without having to completely pick up the bag or lay it flat. Another pro of having front access is that the bottom stays flat when set down on the ground. Bottom compartments can make the bag bottom uneven when filled with shoes.
BOTTOM COMPARTMENT
Bottom Compartment backpacks place a compartment on the bottom of the bag that is completely separate from the main compartment. Unlike backpacks with bottom access or front access shoe compartments, a backpack with a bottom compartment does not dig into the main compartment as its being filled because it has it’s own reserved space.
One thing to note with bottom compartment backpacks is that their main compartments may be smaller due to the addition of the bottom compartment.
BOTTOM ACCESS
Bottom access shoe compartment backpacks usually have a zipper entry at the very bottom of the backpack that opens up to a shoe compartment. The difference between a bottom compartment backpack and bottom access shoe compartment backpack is that the bottom access bag share the storage space with the main compartment.
Like front access shoe compartment backpacks, the shoe compartment and main compartment is divided by polyester or nylon fabric.
Best Gym Backpack with Shoe Compartment: King Kong EDGE
King Kong EDGE35
Why We Chose This Backpack
The King Kong EDGE feels like one of the most complete bags on our list thanks to its versatile design and clever pocket placement. It’s 35L main compartment is roomy enough for gym packing of bulky training gear and is also large enough for serious travel packing. Since this backpack opens like a suitcase, it’s super easy to pack your items while having a birds-eye view of all the pockets that line the inside.
As a daypack you can simply cinch side compression straps down the to reduce the EDGE’s size. A separate admin compartment on the front and a laptop compartment in the rear provide you with great organization of everyday carry.
Out of all of the bags we have tested the EDGE definitely felt the most heavy-duty with robust fabrics and beefy zippers throughout. This is the kind of bag you wouldn’t feel bag about tossing around in the gym and the top and side handles makes it easy to do just that!
Large open-flat main compartment
Finding a backpack with a bottom compartment for shoe storage can be a challenge for those who carry bulkier items like boxing gloves and headgear without resorting to a gym duffel bag. Thankfully King Kong has designed the “Goldilocks” of gym backpacks that is just the right size for your workout gear without looking ridiculously large when worn.
This is thanks to its large 35-liter clamshell main compartment that allows you to lay the backpack flat for easy packing and unpacking. The main compartment is also lined with mesh pockets so you can organize clothing and smaller items while keeping the rest of the main compartment open for larger items.
On light carry days the side Fidlock magnetic straps can compress the backpack down for an even slimmer profile while still allowing you full access to the top, bottom, laptop and admin compartments for daily essentials.
The Shoe Compartment
The shoe pocket on the King Kong EDGE is a bottom access pocket which means that the pocket will cut into the main compartment’s capacity when used. This is the most common configuration you’ll find when looking for a backpack with shoe compartment. For a different front loading shoe pocket design we recommend the King Kong Plus26 backpack.
The EDGE’s bottom shoe pocket is very roomy and can easily fit larger men’s sneakers/trainers. We successfully fit men’s size 12 running shoes into this pocket with room to spare.
There is also another similar yet smaller pocket on the top of the backpack that can be used for smaller shoes or bulkier items that you need quick access to.
Durability meets sleek design
King Kong has really succeeded in offering a backpack that feels as good as it looks. The bag itself is made out of a tough 1000D Nylon while the inside features a 210D Ripstop Nylon lining to prevent rips and tears.
The hardware is also high quality with each pocket using premium YKK zippers and the side compression straps featuring magnetic Fidlock quick release buckles. The bag just feels nice which goes a long way when using the backpack day in and day out.
Tech Carry
One of the features of the King Kong EDGE that we really like is the large laptop compartment that has its own separate zipper access. The padded laptop compartment located against the back panel can fit a whopping 17-inch laptop making the EDGE ideal for those looking for a quality gym laptop backpack with shoe compartment.
For tech accessories like cables and chargers the front admin compartment gives you plenty of pockets to organize smaller items with ease.
Best Travel Backpack with Shoe Compartment: Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35
Why We Chose This Backpack
We like to describe the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 as the Fort-Knox of backpacks. The anti-theft features are incredible and although we could try to list them all here (we try) it’s probably just best to check out the Pacsafe website to learn more about each specific technology.
But we will say this - although many travel backpacks have lockable zippers, few have ones that lock themselves. The anti-theft zippers on the Venturesafe EXP35 work right out of the box without having to worry about bringing your own TSA locks.
The overall design on the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 is great for those who value organization and discretion. Special pockets for valuable items like a phone, wallet or passport is tucked away and not easily reachable to sticky fingers. The 3-sided zipper to the main compartment is also a great touch that we appreciate when packing for a trip. Unlike traditional top-loading backpacks, the 3-sided zipper feels more like suitcase packing and of course the bottom shoe compartment adds much needed seperation of dirty and clean items while traveling.
Pockets and Organization
Organization is one of the things the Venturesafe EXP35 does best and it’s hard to disagree once you delve into all of its pockets and compartments.
The dedicated compartments for organization give you everything you need to neatly store smaller items. The zippered pocket on the front gives you quick-access to airpods, sunglasses or a wallet thanks to an included special RFID-protected pocket. If you want to be extra sneaky, you can use the admin panel zippered pocket inside the main compartment to keep important items like a passport or cash. This discrete compartment kind of blends into the main compartment wall to obscure its presence.
To access your laptop simply use the zipper against the back panel, no need to rummage through your main compartment like with other bags. But of course with Pacsafe being Pacsafe, the laptop compartment also has a locking zipper for peace of mind.
Water bottles can easily be stashed in the big stretchy mesh side pockets. These pockets can easily fit larger bottles and the side compression straps don’t hinder what you can carry inside (simply expand the compression strap to accommodate a larger bottle).
The Main Compartment
One feature we love about the EXP35 is its 3-sided zipper that gives you clamshell access to the main compartment for easy packing and unpacking. From workout gear to your favorite t-shirt, the EXP35 makes it super easy to find what you need inside quickly when the main compartment is wide open.
Having a light carry day? No problem! The EXP35’s compression straps allow you to compress the bag down on days where you only need the essentials.
Although the 35-liter main compartment is enough to pack for short trips, the shoe compartment does take up room in the main compartment when utilized. As a result you can expect to fit 3-4 days of clothing and toiletries when the shoe compartment is empty and 1-2 days of clothing and toiletries when storing shoes.
Anti-Theft Features
We can’t talk about PacSafe backpacks without mentioning their incredible anti-theft features. The PacSafe Venturesafe EXP35 is not only built like a tank but makes it easy to keep your gear safe without a second thought - something most other gym backpacks don’t consider in their design.
The exterior of the EXP35 is made with eXomesh slashguard fabric that prevents cuts and slashes from tearing through the fabric. Each zipper on this backpack is also self-locking so that its harder for thieves to gain access to the inside. Opportunity makes the thief after all.
One of the shoulder straps is also equipped with a PopNLock security clip so that you can secure your EXP35 to a fixed object like a table leg to prevent theft if you were ever to leave your bag unattended in a busy cafe or other public space.
If you are looking for a travel backpack with a shoe compartment that means business - we think its safe to say that the PacSafe Venturesafe EXP35 is definitely up your alley.
What We Don’t Like
One feature we would have liked to have seen was a dedicated tablet sleeve. There is no comfortable pocket to store a tablet outside of letting it sit in the main compartment or using the laptop compartment.
Like other backpacks with compression straps, you will have to unclip the compression straps whenever you want to open the main compartment completely. But the saving grace is that if you position the zippers at the top you can always access the main compartment like you would a regular top-loading backpack.
The above are certainly not design flaws but small gripes from using the backpack. For a travel backpack with a shoe compartment the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 feel thoughtfully designed and intuitive to use. And its great anti-theft features is what really puts it in a league of its own.
Budget Pick For Sports and School: Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack
Under Armour Hustle 5.0
Why We Chose this Backpack
The Under Armour Hustle checks a lot of boxes when it comes to a good sports backpack with a shoe compartment. It’s roomy 29-liter capacity makes it a good mid-sized pack for those who need room for sports gear like balls, shoes and clothing.
It’s also an affordable pack - you can usually grab one for $55 and if you are lucky you can catch it on sale at a reduced price. This makes it perfect for students on a budget who need a reliable backpack for both class and team practice after school.
As a standalone backpack for school you’ll have plenty of pockets for organizing stuff like pens and chargers plus the main compartment is roomy enough for multiple large books, notebooks and binders. The 15-inch laptop sleeve also keeps your tech safe thanks to its soft-touch lining to prevent scratches.
Pockets and Compartments
Where the Under Armour Hustle really shines is with its pockets and compartments. The bag can be divided into three major compartments: the main compartments, the front admin compartment and the bottom shoe compartment.
The main compartment is where the bulk of your carry will live and we found it roomy enough to carry multiple large notebooks, books and binders. If you plan on using the UA Hustle primarily as a sports backpack then you’ll be pleased to know that the main compartment is large enough for a size 7 basketball.
A secondary front admin compartment hosts lots of smaller slip pockets for items like pens, tech chargers and other bits and bobs. This compartment is also large enough to hold smaller notebooks and books.
On the outside of the pack you’ll find a smaller fleece-lined pocket for a phone or sunglasses and two mesh water bottle pockets. We found that these bottle pockets can fit up to a 32oz Nalgene bottle just fine.
Another cool detail is the addition of small attachment loops and D-Rings on the shoulder straps that allows extra gear like carabiners and keys to be attached in an easy to reach spot. Under Armour is known for adding small details like these to their backpack designs that really add to the daily carry experience.
If you are looking for a sports backpack with a shoe compartment that can also double as your daily school bookbag, then the Under Armour Hustle is your best option out of all of the backpacks we have tested. Not only is it affordable but it has features catered to student athletes who need to partition their school and sports items.
The Shoe Compartment
The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is perfect for both athletes with busy schedules and fitness buffs who need a reliable gym backpack with shoe storage. The shoe pocket on the Hustle 5.0 is located at the bottom of the bag and is large enough to hold a small pair of sneakers and some extras or one pair men’s sneakers up to a US size twelve.
Like most gym backpacks with a shoe compartment, the main compartment and shoe compartment share the same space. This means reduced room in the main compartment when you are carrying shoes in the bottom pocket.
What We Don’t Like
When comparing the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 to the other backpacks tested there is a pretty large gap in terms of quality. The polyester construction is very lightweight and doesn’t feel as robust as heavier fabrics. Maybe we are spoiled but the UA Hustle definitely feels every bit of a cheaper backpack and because of this we wouldn’t be our first choice out of the bags we tested.
Another gripe is with the back panel. It it just a solid panel of mesh foam with no cut outs or air channels for breathability. We can see this being a nuisance in the hot weather months where a lack of airflow is less forgiving. This back panel isn’t terrible but it definitely could be better.
Best Backpack For Work And Travel: Public Rec Pro Pack Plus
Public Rec Pro Pack Plus
Why We Chose This Backpack
Public Rec advertises the Pro Pack Plus as the perfect work and travel backpack, and we agree that it checks all the boxes.
With a capacity of 27.5L, the Pro Pack Plus works well as a single bag for short work trips. Its structured design is well-suited for those who need a backpack with a bottom compartment while still maintaining a sleek and professional look during office days.
The biggest strength of the Pro Pack Plus is its partitioned design, which allows you to keep your gym or travel packing completely separate from your work items. This means no rummaging through sweatpants to get to your laptop or pens.
Not only is the Pro Pack Plus a functional workhorse for daily carry, but it also feels as good as it looks. The shoulder straps and back panel are generously padded, and the zippers are buttery smooth. Plus, the water-resistant poly-twill fabric, structured construction, and minimalist branding will give you a mature, professional look day in and day out.
Partitioned Compartments
The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus can be divided into two major compartments: the main packing compartment and the rear "work" compartment. The main compartment is where you will find the majority of your storage. This compartment is large and deep, allowing you to pack bulkier items for workouts or travel. We found that you can easily pack for a 2-3 day trip.
The rear "work" compartment can be thought of as your home base for daily work carry. Here, you’ll find a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a secondary sleeve for a tablet. A nice array of mesh and slip pockets will also give you the organization you need for smaller items like pens and tech chargers.
What we appreciate about this rear compartment is that it’s roomy enough also store a notebook or binder, giving you the room for comprehensive business carry. This carry division is also why the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus excels when it comes to work/travel or work/gym carry.
Exterior Pockets
Along with great exterior organization, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus also offers some excellent external pockets. On the top, you’ll find a pocket for your sunglasses or phone, while two water bottle slip pockets cradle the sides of the bag. Commuters and travelers alike will appreciate the hidden zippered pocket found against the back panel, which allows you to discreetly stash a passport, cash, or a phone.
The Shoe Compartment
Unlike other backpacks with shoe compartments, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus keeps its shoe pocket discrete and semi-hidden at the bottom of the backpack. The bottom panel itself hosts a wrap-around zipper to reveal the shoe pocket inside.
We found that a men’s size 12 (US) running shoe fits inside this pocket just fine, but you may struggle to fit larger shoes. Also, keep in mind that the shoe compartment shares internal space with the main compartment. Depending on how large your shoes are, you can expect maybe 40-50% of that main compartment to be taken up by your shoes.
What We Don’t Like
There are very few complaints about the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus, but the one gripe we do have is that the water bottle pockets on the side of the bag are quite small. They have absolutely no give to them, and as a result, you are limited to slim water bottles 24oz and under.
Best Backpack for Work and Gym: Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack
Modern Dayfarer v2 Backpack
Why We Chose this Backpack
Modern Dayfarer designed the V2 backpack to be your one bag for work, gym, and the occasional short trip, and we believe they succeeded in their mission. Its secret weapon is its minimalist design that sneakily hides pockets and compartments. This allows you to maintain a sleek profile during business hours without sacrificing important features.
Despite its understated design, the Modern Dayfarer V2 is jam-packed with incredible features. The main compartment is lined with pockets for clothing, toiletries, and other small items, or you can use the bottom shoe compartment to pack shoes or dirty laundry to keep smelly, soiled items away from your clean stuff. Grab handles and a luggage trolley sleeve make it a great carry-on option for flights. For a small pack, the Modern Dayfarer V2 is really like a Swiss Army knife - and a stylish one at that!
VERSATILITY DEFINED: ONE BAG FOR WORK AND GYM
Modern Dayfarer designed the V2 Backpack for people who need one bag to accommodate their busy lifestyles. For daily work carry, the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack features all of the organization you need to thrive on a busy day. Although hidden, the outside of the pack features pockets for everything from keys and a phone to larger items like headphones and small notebooks. The rear laptop compartment can fit up to a 16” Macbook Pro. Not only is this laptop compartment generously protected with a large suspended false-bottom to protect your tech from drops, but it’s protects from bad weather thanks to a water resistant YKK Aquaguard zipper.
The Shoe Compartment
We tested the shoe compartment on the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack and can confirm that it can fit a men’s size 12 (US) running shoe but the brand says it can fit up to men’s size 14 shoes just fine. This shoe compartment does share space with the main compartment so keep that in mind if you plan on using it when packing for a trip.
A neat design feature is that the main compartment is expandable by a few liters on days when you need more packing room. Simply loosen up the front strap to give the top lid room to expand upwards.
Impressive Quality
Modern Dayfarer isn’t shy about naming the materials they use in each of their bags, and once you get your hands on this backpack, it’s easy to see that they have put a lot of thought into its construction. The external construction is made with water-resistant 840D ballistic nylon, while the inside is lined with a light-colored ripstop for easy spotting of items. Everything from the magnetic Fidlock buckle to the ergonomic shoulder straps feels like top-notch quality.
The water resistance of the Modern Dayfarer V2 is also fantastic. Along with using YKK Aquaguard zippers on exposed zippers, the V2 Backpack features a top lid design that creates a protective barrier for the main compartment against rain and snow.
Unlike other travel backpacks with shoe compartments, the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack has a mature and understated design that isn’t too loud or “sporty”. Modern Dayfarer even keeps their branding simple, with just a small black logo badge on the side water bottle pocket. It’s fair to say that the Modern Dayfarer is an excellent work-to-gym backpack that still looks great at the office.
What We Don’t Like About This Backpack
One gripe we have about the Modern Dayfarer V2 is that the bottom of the bag is curved so it doesn’t allow you to set the bag on the ground with toppling over. Also, those who value a chest strap will be disappointed to find out that this bag doesn’t include one and that there is also no option to add on a chest strap or hip belt.
Other Backpacks With Shoe Pockets to Consider
1) Under Armour Triumph Sport Backpack
Under Armour does a great job at designing stylish backpacks with athletes in mind and the Triumph Sport backpack is no exception. As a gym backpack, the Triumph Sport offers great compartments daily essentials and sports gear in a sleek and streamlined design.
Not only is does this backpack include a special shoe compartment but the MOLLE webbing on the front allows for attachments of pouches to expand your storage. For those who need a bag for work or school, features such as a padded laptop sleeve and organizer pockets make the Under Armor Contain a great work to gym backpack option. If you are looking for a larger backpack with similar features then make sure to check out the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 backpack with shoe storage.
Features at a glance:
Volume: 34L
Laptop sleeve holds up to 15” MacBook Pro
Shoe compartment: Bottom access
2) Trend Urban Gym Backpack (Amazon)
Trend offers a gym backpack with shoe storage that is as stylish as it is functional with their Urban Backpack. The 35-liter main compartment has enough room for all of your daily essentials with plenty of internal pockets for must-have carry like a tablet, tech accessories and smaller personal items. For workouts or travel days, the bottom zip compartment can hold a pair of shoes or dirty laundry to keep everything nice and separate.
Features at a glance:
Large 35L main compartment for busy workouts
Available in different colors to match your style
Shoe compartment: Bottom compartment
3) Lo & Sons The Hakuba
The Hakuba is Lo & Son’s take on a traditional gym bag updated for modern carry. In fact, the Hakuba is more than just a gym backpack thanks to its convertible insert design that allows it to also be used as a travel and work backpack.
At the bottom of the backpack is where you’ll find the dedicated shoe pocket that can fit up to a men’s size 14 sneakers. This special pocket can also double as a place to store travel toiletries or a lunch. Other great features include tons of easy-access pockets, a separate 15” laptop compartment and a removable insert that expands the main compartment as needed.
Features at a glance:
Made with eco-friendly recycled poly and water-resistant zippers
Unique removable insert design that allows you to adapt the main compartment to your carry needs.
15” laptop compartment with side access
Shoe compartment: Bottom access
4) Troubadour Aero Backpack
Troubadour offers versatile work and gym bag with shoe storage with the Aero backpack. This backpack makes going from the office to the gym easier than ever with it’s built in bottom compartment and lofty main compartment for commuting gear, gym clothes and other daily essentials. We love this backpack because its stylish design and premium materials don’t scream “gym bag” while still offering all the features you need for the day ahead.
The Troubadour Aero offers a whopping 34 liters of main compartment capacity with plenty of exterior pockets for quick access to small items. If you love the look and feel of the Aero but would like a smaller size we recommend you check out the 23.5 liter Troubadour Pioneer Backpack.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 34L
Waterproof fabric and zippers
Shoe compartment is lined with antimicrobial lining to minimize smells
Discrete laptop and gym bag: Dedicated laptop sleeve, plenty of pockets plus a separate laundry/shoe compartment
Shoe compartment: Bottom compartment
5) Boundary Supply Errant Pack
The Boundary Supply Errant Pack is a versatile everyday backpack that can be used for gym days and daily commutes alike. This is thanks to its various pockets and entry points that allow for unrivaled organization and utility. Not only can you access the inside from the top but the Errant Pack also functions as a clamshell backpack thanks to its 3/4 back-access zipper. This allows for full access to all of the pockets and compartments inside the Errant Pack.
Since the Errant Pack was made to be adaptive to your needs, Boundary Supply makes sure to offer plenty of modular accessories for travel, photography and daily carry. For gym days the Errant Pack includes a shoe pocket on the bottom of the bag that can also be used to store dirty laundry.
Features at a glance:
Incredible pocket placement for maximum organization
Modular system allows you to use the Errant Pack for the gym, photography or travel
Shoe compartment: Bottom access
Alternatives to Consider
Although a separate shoe compartment is incredibly convenient, buying an entirely new backpack with a shoe compartment isn’t always necessary if you want to carry shoes.
An alternative to a backpack with a shoe pocket is a shoe bag - which gives you the same kind of seperation between your dirty shoes and the rest of your packing. Not only is this a cheaper solution to purchasing an entirely new backpack but you can use the shoe bag in multiple backpacks, luggage or just carry it solo.
There are a ton of brands that offer shoe bags but below are some of our favorites:
Peak Design Shoe Pouch - Ultralight and packable shoe bag that can fit up to 2 pairs of shoes depending on size. The Shoe Pouch compresses down into a fraction of its size when not in use.
Knack Bags Shoe Bag - Compressible shoe bag that can be adjusted to your shoe size to save space in your backpack. We like how these include an internal divider to keep shoes from rubbing against each other while packed.
Nomatic Shoe Cube - Square design allows this shoe bag to pack neatly with other packing cubes. It also has a highly durable water resistant exterior design to protect expensive shoes. Can fit up to size 12 shoes.
14 Best Convertible Laptop Backpacks - Tote, Briefcase and Shoulder Bags
From weekend travel to weekdays at the office - a convertible laptop backpack offers a best of both worlds solution to your carry. Here are our top picks!
A convertible laptop backpack offers a best of both worlds solution between comfortable hands-free carry and a sleek professional look. Few other bag options offer this amount of versatility and style in one bag and this is why we love them!
In this buying guide we take a closer look at our favorite convertible laptop backpacks for work, weekends and travel. Each one of these bags has a dedicated laptop compartment to keep your tech safe plus some great convertible features that allow you to carry how you want when you want.
Best Convertible Laptop Backpacks
Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack
Troubadour offers a sleek convertible laptop backpack for both work and play with the Bivy Tote Backpack. Made of waterproof materials with a generous main compartment and plenty of pockets for organization - the Bivy Tote Backpack is one of our favorite convertible backpacks for those seeking an elevated look.
Learn more about the Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack
What makes the Troubadour Bivy Tote the best convertible laptop backpack?
Sleek cohesive design that looks great as both a backpack and tote
Large 17” laptop sleeve and plenty of internal pockets for organization
Waterproof materials and zippers
Shoulder straps are well hidden when in tote-mode.
Comfortable padded shoulder straps that feel great even as the bag gets heavy
One bag that can do it all
With a 21 liter main compartment, the Bivy Tote Backpack makes a great convertible laptop backpack option for both daily work commutes and travel. The compact dimensions make it perfect to use as an airline personal item backpack while the inside is packed with enough pockets and compartments to keep you organized on busy days.
The bag features a generously padded laptop sleeve inside the main compartment that can accommodate up to a 17” laptop. Inside the main compartment you’ll also find plenty of pockets to keep your tech and personal items nice and organized. An exterior vertical pocket with a key leash makes grabbing essentials quickly a breeze while two side pockets can accommodate water bottles or an umbrella.
Converting the Bivy Tote Backpack into a stylish tote is as easy as unclasping the shoulder straps and tucking them into a hidden back pocket. We love this bag for its minimalist silhouette, mature colorways and premium waterproof materials that feel as good as they look.
Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter
Designed for both daily commuting and travel, the Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter is the one bag that can do it all. This convertible laptop backpack features a 5-way design that allows you to carry the bag as a backpack, briefcase, messenger bag, sling bag or clutch due to its stow-away backpack straps and detachable long single shoulder strap. When you add waterproof zippers and an ultra-tough ballistic nylon exterior - you have a bag you can rely on for years to come.
Learn more about the Everyman Hideout
What makes the Everyman Hideout the best convertible laptop backpack?
Separate laptop compartment with extra pockets for organizing accessories
18L main compartment is the perfect size for daily carry or overnight travel
Polished minimalist design that looks great in backpack and briefcase mode
Made with premium materials: 1680 PU ballistic nylon exterior, waterproof zippers and felted wool lining
A 5-in-1 Convertible Laptop Backpack for Work and Travel
The Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter can be divided into two compartments that lay-flat for easy packing and stress-free moments in the airport TSA line. The first is the clamshell wool-lined laptop compartment that features a laptop sleeve and extra pocket to keep your work and tech items nice and organized.
The second lay-flat compartment is the main compartment that was designed to be used with the included velcro packing cubes that attach right against the walls of the main compartment. These packing cubes are perfect for travel packing or just for keeping your daily items organized. You can also remove the packing cubes for a large and open main compartment to accommodate larger items.
Lo & Sons Rowledge
Designed with modern carry in mind, the Lo & Sons Rowledge proves that you don’t have to choose between a sleek backpack or a stylish tote. Premium leather accents, tons of functional pockets and a discreet separate laptop compartment are just some of the features of one of our favorite convertible laptop backpacks to date.
Learn more about the Lo & Sons Rowledge
What makes the Lo & Sons Rowledge such a great convertible laptop backpack?
Available in two sizes (Small & Large) for the perfect fit
Stowable shoulder straps makes it simple to switch between backpack and tote bag
Made of premium materials such as buttery soft leather and fine weave water resistant nylon
Discreet zippered side pockets for water bottles or an umbrella that blend in when not in use
Tons of interior pockets for organizing your daily essentials
Dedicated 13” laptop compartment
Best of Both Worlds Carry in One Sleek Package
The Lo & Sons Rowledge offers best of both worlds carry in one sleek bag. Whether you are looking for the professional women’s work bag, cute gym backpack or a tote for travel - the Rowledge has you covered.
Some standout features include a generous array of internal pockets inside the main compartment to keep you organized, a trolley sleeve on the back panel for attaching to luggage and discreet side water bottle pockets that stay flat when not in use for a sleeker look.
Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack
The Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack was designed for professionals who demand more from their daily carry. One of our favorite design elements is that both the tote handles and shoulder straps can be tucked away and hidden for a sleeker look in both tote and backpack modes.
Other great features include an expandable main compartment that gives you 33% more capacity when you need it, a hidden exterior compartment that can expand to fit clothing or shoes and water resistant exterior fabric for peace of mind on gloomy days.
Learn more about the Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack
What makes the Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack a great convertible tote backpack?
Expandable main compartment
Padded 16” laptop pocket and plenty of pockets to keep you organized
Gym ready - hidden expandable compartment can fit shoes or extra clothing
Lockable main compartment zippers with magnetic closures
Weather resistant materials for confidence while commuting
One Convertible Backpack for Work, Gym and Travel
The Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack is a versatile convertible laptop backpack designed for both work and play. Inside you’ll find a padded 16” laptop sleeve plus extra pockets to keep you organized. This main compartment is also expandable to give you up to 33% more room on busier days.
One of our favorite features is the separate exterior shoe bag that attaches to the front of the backpack for instant storage of shoes, clothing and other items you want to keep separate. The shoe bag tucks into a hidden pocket on the Work+ Convertible Daypack and stays out of the way until you need it.
Although many convertible tote backpacks allow you tuck away the shoulder straps, few give you the option to also hide the tote handles. This small design element allows for a cleaner and cohesive look in both backpack and tote bag modes.
Peak Design Everyday Totepack
The Peak Design Everyday Totepack is a convertible laptop backpack with a clean urban design for those who don’t want to choose between quality and style.
Every detail on the Everyday Totepack has been thoughtfully considered to maximize function while still looking great. Some examples include 3 ways to access to the main compartment, internal Flexfold Dividers to keep you organized and rugged yet attractive weatherproof materials for additional peace of mind.
Learn more about the Peak Design Everyday Totepack
What makes the Peak Design Everyday Totepack a great convertible laptop backpack?
Stowable backpack straps for a clean tote bag look
Dedicated 15” laptop and 11” tablet sleeves
20L main compartment (25L with the rolltop extended)
Weatherproof exterior material
Organize and protect your everyday or photography gear with included Flexfold Dividers
Side zippers to quickly grab items inside the main compartment
Not Just a Camera Bag
The Peak Design Everyday Totepack is not only our favorite women’s camera backpack but it also thrives as a unisex convertible laptop backpack thanks to its fixed tote bag handles and stowable backpack straps that allow for a clean look no matter how its worn.
Although the Everyday Totepack is marketed with photographers in mind it also thrives as an everyday convertible bag for non-photographers thanks to its versatile design. The internal Flexfold Dividers can be used to organize the main compartment (think separating your lunch from a change of clothes) or they can be removed all-together to take advantage of the roomy main compartment like you would a traditional backpack.
What makes Peak Design products some of the best on the market is their amazing attention to small design details that add up to a comfortable and functional carry experience. One example on the Everyday Totepack are how the shoulder straps are attached with axial adjustments on the top. This means the shoulder straps can swivel to accommodate people of all sizes for an instantly customizable and comfortable fit.
Other great details include anodized aluminum buckles and adjusters to prevent failure from wear and tear, separate padded laptop and tablet sleeves, and three ways to access the main compartment - top zipper and two side zippers.
Briggs & Riley Delve Convertible Briefcase Backpack
The Thule Crossover 2 is a convertible laptop backpack for professionals with an emphasis on secure daily carry of tech and valuables. Some stand out features include a mature office-ready design, padded laptop and tablet sleeves plus special pockets for power cords, sunglasses and documents.
Learn more about the Thule Crossover 2
What makes the Briggs & Riley Delve a great convertible briefcase backpack?
3 way carry options: backpack, briefcase and messenger bag with included long shoulder strap
Padded 15” laptop and 11” tablet sleeves
Special RFID-blocking pocket and plenty of pockets for tech accessories and fragile items
Dedicated file and document pocket
Made with weather resistant PVC coated materials
A Convertible Laptop Backpack for Professionals
The Briggs & Riley Delve is a convertible backpack briefcase that allows you to conquer the workday in confidence. The bag includes stowable shoulder straps that tuck into the back panel for an instantly clean briefcase look when needed. A removable shoulder strap also allows you to carry the Briggs & Riley Delve as a messenger bag.
When it comes to work carry - the Briggs & Riley Delve has you covered. Along with generously padded laptop and tablet sleeves the Delve also features a separate document pocket to keep your important files and folders safe.
One of our favorite features on the Briggs & Riley Delve is the PVC coated body fabric that keeps your important items safe and dry in case of less than stellar weather. This fabric is also wear and abrasion resistant to keep the bag looking clean and professional over time.
Samsonite & Sarah Jessica Parker: The Carried Away Convertible
Samsonite has partnered with actress Sarah Jessica Parker to bring you a stylish convertible bag that can be worn as a backpack, shoulder bag, crossbody bag or carried like a traditional tote. The Carried Away Convertible even includes a removable clutch bag with RFID protective lining for when you need to carry just the essentials on nights out.
Available in a few different cute colors, Samsonite & Sarah Jessica Parker Carried Away Convertible is one of the most versatile and innovative convertible laptop backpacks on the market today and definitely one of our top picks.
Learn more about the Samsonite Carried Away Convertible
What makes the Samsonite Carried Away Convertible the best convertible laptop backpack?
4 modes of carry - backpack, crossbody, shoulder bag and handheld tote
2 additional carry options - includes a removable clutch that can be converted into a small sling bag
Dedicated 14.1” laptop compartment
Tons of pockets for organization including a stealth security pocket discreetly located in the back panel
Stylish and versatile design that’s perfect for work, travel or weekend carry
The Ultimate Convertible Tote Backpack Purse
Few convertible laptop backpacks have as many carry options as the Samsonite & Sarah Jessica Parker Carried Away Convertible. Along with a traditional backpack mode, the Carried Away Convertible can also be worn as a shoulder or crossbody bag with the included removable single strap. Tuck in the backpack shoulder straps and use the Carried Away Convertible as a tote bag on days when you want to look more polished.
A great feature of the Samsonite & Sarah Jessica Parker Carried Away Convertible is the integrated clutch bag that is stored in the front pocket. Made with RFID-protected lining, the clutch can even convert into a sling bag by attaching the crossbody shoulder!
No matter how you decide to carry - The Carried Away Convertible will leave you looking your best.
Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase
The Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase is one of Topo’s most popular bags thanks to its 3-way carry (backpack, briefcase and shoulder bag) and functional design that’s filled with pockets and compartments to keep you organized.
What we love most about the Commuter Briefcase is that each bag is made in the USA using premium materials such as Cordura nylon, Horween leather and heavy-duty YKK zippers. For a more refined look, Topo offers the Commuter Briefcase in a Heritage Canvas version that swaps out the Cordura nylon body for a handsome cotton canvas.
Learn more about the Topo Commuter Briefcase
What makes the Topo Commuter Briefcase a great convertible backpack briefcase?
Made in USA with durable materials
Stowable backpack straps and detachable single-shoulder strap allows you to convert the bag in seconds
Padded 15” laptop sleeve
Roomy 15L internal volume - perfect for daily carry
Great internal organization - plenty of pockets for smaller items and accessories
For Those Who Expect More From Their Daily Bag
Topo Designs offers a convertible backpack briefcase with an emphasis on quality construction and top-notch materials. The Horween leather bottom and carry handles adds a rugged yet sophisticated touch while the ultra-tough 1000D Cordura exterior fabric and robust YKK zippers brings the Commuter Briefcase into “buy it for life” territory.
The three-way carry design allows you to wear the Topo Commuter Briefcase as a backpack, briefcase and messenger bag with the included long shoulder strap. The backpack straps can quickly be stowed away for a clean look when in briefcase-mode.
Inside the Topo Commuter Briefcase you’ll find a laptop sleeve that can fit a laptop up to 15-inches plus extra pockets for organizing smaller accessories. A roomy zippered pocket on the front gives you quick access to items while on the move while two compression straps on the bottom allows you to adjust the depth of the bag as needed for a sleeker look on light carry days. All in all the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase is an American made convertible laptop backpack that’s designed to get you to any destination with confidence.
Timbuk2 Scheme Convertible Briefcase Backpack
Designed for modern professionals, the Timbuk2 Scheme is a convertible laptop backpack that transforms into a shoulder bag or briefcase in seconds. Padded integrated handles allows you to carry the bag in vertical or horizontal orientation while a detachable shoulder strap gives you quick and easy messenger-style carry.
Learn more about the Timbuk2 Scheme
What makes the Timbuk2 Scheme a great convertible briefcase backpack?
3-way Carry - backpack, shoulder bag or briefcase
Sleek professional design
Roomy 25L interior
15” laptop compartment
Plenty of pockets and compartments for organization
United by Blue Convertible Carryall
United By Blue offers a stylish convertible tote backpack that’s available in a variety of fun colors and pattens with all of the features you need for the daily work grind and fun weekend adventures.
The padded 15” laptop compartment and various pockets throughout make organizing your carry a breeze while United By Blue’s recycled (R)evolution fabric offers a water and stain resistant material that’s also good for the planet.
Learn more about the United By Blue Convertible Carryall
What makes the United By Blue Convertible Carryall a great convertible tote backpack?
Padded 15” laptop compartment
Stowable backpack shoulder straps for a clean tote bag look
Roomy 25L main compartment for school, work, gym or weekend trips
Made of eco-friendly recycled materials
Expandable side pockets for water bottles, umbrellas and more
A Sustainable Convertible Tote Backpack
Each United by Blue Convertible Carryall is made with the brand’s signature (R)evolution fabric that’s made out of recycled plastic water bottles for less waste. In addition to being vegan this fabric is also water resistant and stain resistant to keep your tote backpack looking fresh for years to come.
Osprey Daylite Tote Pack
The Osprey Daylite Tote Pack is a lightweight and water resistant convertible laptop backpack for those looking for just one bag that can do it all. Plus its available in lots of fun colors and patterns so you are sure to find one you love.
This tote backpack was designed with versatility in mind. Want to go for a day hike? The internal laptop sleeve can also hold a hydration bladder. Visiting the farmers market? Switching to tote-mode is as easy as tucking away the backpack shoulder straps. From work commutes to weekend adventures - the Osprey Daylite Tote Pack has you covered!
Learn more about the Osprey Daylite Tote Pack
What makes the Osprey Daylite Tote Pack a great convertible tote backpack?
Made with eco-friendly and recycled materials
Hide-away backpack shoulder straps
Internal padded laptop sleeve and can also be used as a hydration sleeve
Roomy 20L interior
Side mesh pockets for water bottles
Luggage pass through backpanel for travel
Black Ember Forge
The Black Ember Forge is an expandable, modular and completely waterproof bag with a 3-way design that transforms it from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag when you need it.
One could say this convertible laptop backpack is “over-engineered” but that’s exactly what makes the Forge a force to be reckoned with. Each bag features thoughtfully designed compartments for modern tech and its laser-cut components translates into a waterproof state-of-the-art design that is sure to turn some heads.
Learn more about the Black Ember Forge
What makes the Black Ember Forge a great convertible laptop backpack?
3-Way Design: backpack, briefcase and shoulder bag
Modular handles and accessories
Waterproof construction
20L-30L expandable capacity (make room for travel or the gym)
Tech-focused pockets and compartments
Suspended laptop sleeve for extra protection
A Bag For the Modern Urban Commuter
The Black Ember Forge is an expandable and modular bag for urban commutes and travel that features a 3-way design that transform it from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag. As a convertible laptop backpack we appreciate the ability to remove the side-handles all together for a sleeker look when in backpack mode. Other great modular features include a removable backpack sternum strap, shoulder bag strap and the option to add accessories such as compression straps and extra handles.
Need a bag for travel? No problem! The Black Ember Forge can expand an additional 10-liters to accommodate your packing.
Cotopaxi Todo Convertible
Fun and versatile, the Cotopaxi Todo Convertible allows you to switch between backpack and tote bag thanks to its stowable shoulder straps.
The internal 16-liter capacity gives you enough room for a busy work day while keeping a rugged construction for weekends on the trail or at your favorite farmers market. Other great features include a 15” laptop sleeve, fleece lined pocket for valuables and a lightweight recycled nylon ripstop construction.
Learn more about the Cotopaxi Todo Convertible
What makes the Cotopaxi Todo a great convertible tote backpack?
Hide-away shoulder straps for a cleaner look when using as a tote bag
15” internal padded laptop sleeve
Available in a ton of fun colors
A dedication to sustainability - each Todo Convertible is made from recycled nylon and manufactured in a factory commited to fair social labor
CoolBELL Convertible Briefcase Backpack
CoolBell offers an affordable budget convertible backpack briefcase with a vintage flare that’s packed with useful features for work and travel. Some of its best features include a large 17.3-inch laptop compartment, plenty of pockets for organizing accessories and a luggage trolly sleeve for easy transport while traveling.
Learn more about the CoolBell Convertible
What makes the CoolBell Convertible a great convertible laptop backpack?
3-way convertible design: backpack, briefcase and messenger bag
Separate 17-inch laptop compartment
Roomy main compartment for daily carry or travel
Lots of smaller pockets for organization
Affordable price (grab one for under $65)
Choosing a Convertible Laptop Backpack
A convertible laptop backpack usually comes in two flavors: a convertible tote backpack or a convertible briefcase backpack. Although both styles can give you similar functionality there are some differences to consider when choosing between the two.
The Convertible Tote Backpack
A convertible tote backpack makes it easy to switch between a backpack and tote in seconds thanks to their stowable backpack shoulder straps that stay out of the way as needed.
Unlike a briefcase backpack, convertible tote backpacks are usually larger in size and have many of the features you would normally find in a regular backpack such as a dedicated laptop sleeve and extra pockets for organization. Their orientation does not change when switching modes from tote to backpack giving you more of a traditional backpack experience with an extra carry option.
Convertible Tote Backpack - Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack
Features to look out for:
Dedicated tote top handle for easy tote carry (bonus points if they can hide away when in backpack-mode)
Backpack shoulder straps that tuck away when using as a tote
Keeps its vertical orientation in both tote and backpack mode
Larger main compartment then a briefcase
The Convertible Briefcase Backpack
A convertible briefcase backpack allows you to carry the bag vertically in backpack-mode and horizontally with a side briefcase handle for a more professional appearance when needed. Many briefcase backpacks also include a longer shoulder strap so that you can carry the bag as a messenger bag or sling pack.
Unlike a convertible tote backpack, a convertible briefcase usually favors “briefcase-mode” in its pocket orientation. This means that when worn as a backpack the zippered pockets will be on the side of the bag instead of up top like a regular backpack.
Convertible Briefcase Backpack - Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase
Features to look out for:
Integrated side handle for easy briefcase carry
Stowable shoulder straps that stay hidden and out of the way when using as a briefcase
A detachable shoulder strap for use as a messenger bag or sling pack
Slim and sleek design for a mature and professional look
Dedicated laptop compartment and pockets for tech
14 Best Expandable Backpacks For Travel, Laptop & Commuting
Is an expandable backpack the one bag that can do it all? We review the best expandable backpacks for travel, commuting and daily laptop carry.
The concept behind an expandable backpack is pretty clever - instead of rotating through different sized bags you can simply own one that adapts to different carry situations. This allows for the same backpack to be used for daily commutes, weekend trips and everything in between.
Need to do some shopping after work? No problem, expand the bag to fit extra items! Need a daypack once you arrive to your travel destination? Easy, compress the backpack down to a manageable daypack size. The versatility built into an expandable backpack can’t be beat.
Expandable backpacks usually come in two different flavors: backpacks with expandable zippered compartments and rolltop backpacks that expand and compress as needed. In this buying guide we take a look at both and pick out some of our favorites.
Knack Pack Series 2 expandable backpack
Expandable Backpack with a Compressed Compartment
Some expandable backpacks feature a zipper that opens up a compressed expanding compartment. These backpacks are great if you need a bag that can be used for both daily carry and travel as you can easily switch between the two modes. The extra room will stay concealed and out of the way until you need it.
Expanded space can come in the form of either a separate “travel” compartment for stashing clothing much like a suitcase or just an expanding main compartment.
WANDRD PRVKE expandable roll top backpack
Expandable Rolltop Backpack
Given the nature of their design, nearly all rolltop backpacks are expandable. Roll top backpacks comprise of one large main compartment that can be accessed from the top of the bag and held closed with a strap and buckle.
When you need more room you can “roll up” the rolltop to expand the main compartment and on lighter days you can “roll down” the rolltop to compress the backpack down to a smaller size.
Best Expandable Backpacks
Knack Pack Series 2
The Knack Pack Series 2 is an expandable backpack designed for both daily carry and travel thanks to its completely hidden “travel” compartment that opens like a suitcase for easy packing when utilized.
When compressed, the Knack Pack keeps a slim profile that’s perfect for work, school and commuting. The impressive array of internal pockets and compartments for keeping you organized is just one of the reasons why the Knack Pack Series 2 is our top choice when it comes to expandable backpacks.
Read more about the Knack Pack Series 2
Features at a glance:
Sleek professional design
Available in Medium and Large sizes
Medium Knack Pack: 24L (unexpanded) 35L (expanded)
Large Knack Pack: 30L (unexpanded) 40L (expanded)
Side zipper laptop compartment
Amazing interior organization - tons of pockets
Hidden side water bottle pocket for a cleaner look
The Knack Pack Series 2 has to be our favorite expandable backpack currently available thanks to its sleek style, amazing pocket placement and unique expandable design. Although there are other backpacks that offer expandable travel compartments, few are designed as well the Knack Pack.
Each Knack Pack offers two separate compartments - the main compartment for daily packing and the hidden travel compartment that opens like a suitcase. And when we say hidden travel compartment we really mean hidden! When compressed, the Knack Pack looks like any other regular sized backpack thanks to its special patent pending expandable design.
Knack also offers the Knack Pack Series 1 in more size and color options. This is a great choice for those who love the concept of the Knack Pack but would like a more affordable option. If you are curious, we recommend our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison for a deep dive on the differences between the two bags.
Mission Workshop The Rambler
Built to last a lifetime, this completely weatherproof American made backpack features an expandable main compartment and multiple modes of carry to fit your specific carry needs. When compressed the Rambler offers a slim profile and 22 liters of carrying capacity with the ability to expand to a whopping 44 liters on busier days.
Need an even larger expandable backpack? Check out the Mission Workshop Vandal that expands up to an insane 64 liters for longer trips and larger hauls.
Read more about the Mission Workshop Rambler
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 22L (unexpanded) 44L (expanded)
Weatherproof construction
13” laptop/tablet pocket (Up to 17” laptop can fit inside main compartment)
Switch between Roll-Top and Flap-Down closure
Made in USA with a Guaranteed Forever warrantee
If you are looking for a rugged “buy once” expandable backpack then The Rambler is it. The construction on The Rambler is top-notch: tough water-resistant materials and urethane coated zippers, pin-pointed adjustable shoulder straps and an internal frame sheet for comfortable carry no matter what you pack inside.
When compressed at 22 liters the Mission Workshop Rambler is about the size of a commuter daypack. What makes The Rambler one of the best expandable backpacks is the sheer amount of expansion you get. Once expanded you get double the amount of space at 44 liters!
But what if you only need a little bit more room? The compressions straps on the sides of the main compartment give you the option to match the size of the contents inside. Load adjusters on the top of the shoulder straps also allow you to dial in the perfect weight distribution for a more comfortable carry. These small adjustment details is what makes the Mission Workshop Rambler a winner when it comes to fit and function.
Nomatic Navigator Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Navigator is an impressive travel pack that certainly lives up to the hype. It does two things very well: organization and comfort. With dozens of pockets for essentials, incredibly thoughtful comfort features and a generous expandable packing compartment that opens like a suitcase - the Nomatic Navigator is the one travel bag to rule them all.
Read more about the Nomatic Navigator
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 32L (unexpanded) 41L (expanded)
Water resistant zippers and materials
17” laptop compartment
Ultra comfortable breathable back panel and shoulder harness
Large expandable packing compartment
Tons of pockets for organizing smaller items
Best In Class Organization
Nomatic bags are known for their insane organization and the Navigator is no exception. The Navigator Travel Backpack features a generous accessories compartment which is lined with multiple pockets for items such tech accessories, pens, headphones and notebooks. This compartment also includes a special RFID safe pocket for storing valuables while on the move. A rear padded laptop compartment makes grabbing your tech quick and easy.
As for the main compartment, this backpack opens like a suitcase to reveal a large expandable packing area with even more zip pockets for organizing your stuff. The Nomatic Navigator gives you a standard packing room of 32 liters but allows to be expanded an additional 9 liters for longer trips. When fully expanded the Nomatic Navigator allows you to pack for around 5 days of travel!
Seriously Comfortable
What makes this travel backpack special is its focus on comfort that blows many other similar expandable travel bags out of the water.
The Nomatic Navigator features aluminum stays that run down the back panel to help distribute weight evenly from your shoulder down to your waist. The back panel itself is generously cushioned and designed to maximize breathability for dry and comfortable wear when carrying the bag for long periods of time.
Load lifters on the top of the shoulder straps allow for dialed in adjustments for a more comfortable experience when the bag gets heavy. And the Navigator also includes adjustable and removable waist belt and sternum strap for even more comfort customization.
Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack
A tough water resistant exterior, great pocket placement and a sleek design easily makes the Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack one of our favorite expanding backpacks to date.
Equipped with an expanding main compartment, the Parker Commuter Backpack is a backpack for work, school and travel that doesn’t disappoint when it comes to carry versatility. The main compartment quickly expands from 26 liters to 35 liters using a wrap-around zipper while the magnetic compression straps allow you to hone in the perfect bag depth based on your load.
Read more about the Timbuk2 Commuter
Features at a glance
Capacity: 26L (unexpanded) 35L (expanded)
15” padded laptop compartment
Adjustable and removable sternum and waist straps
3 different front panel pockets for quick-access to sunglasses, bike lock, keys and more
Reflective panel on the front for safer commutes in low light
Includes a rain fly stored in special pocket
The Timbuk2 Parker quickly goes from 26 liters to 35 liters by engaging a wrap-around zipper making this expandable backpack perfect for shopping errands, travel and other situations where you might need the extra room.
An impressive design feature are the multiple front pockets that line the front of the backpack. The top pocket is fleece-lined for quick-access to sunglasses or a phone while the middle pocket features a magnetic flap and is large enough for a bike lock and features a key-leash for safekeeping of your keys. An additional bottom pocket gives you even more quick-access storage.
Inside the main compartment is where you will find a padded 15” laptop sleeve and an extra slip pocket for storage. Timbuk2 has designed the Parker Commuter so you can grab your laptop from the main compartment or through a separate side zipper for easy-access when on the move.
Peak Design Travel Backpack
Peak Designs offers two expandable travel backpacks for both short and longer trips with their Travel Backpack 30L and Travel Backpack 45L. Both backpacks offer dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves, a great array of pockets and compartments for organization and an expandable design that allows you to switch between travel bag and daypack sizes. A weatherproof exterior also provides peace of mind when exploring rainy cities or outdoor destinations.
Read more about the Peak Design Travel Backpack
Features at a glance:
Available in two sizes
30L Travel Backpack: 27L (compressed) 33L (expanded)
45L Travel Backpack: 30L (compressed) 45L (expanded)
Made of a super tough weatherproof nylon canvas external shell with a waterproof bottom liner
Dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves
Great internal organization for travel packing and tech
Lifetime Guarantee
As an expandable travel backpack, both the Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L and Travel Backpack 45L can be compressed and expanded as needed. Expand the backpack to its full capacity on travel days and compress it down once at your destination to use as a daypack. A tough weatherproof exterior also makes the Travel Backpack a great choice for busy days in rainy cities or outdoor destinations.
Matein Expandable Laptop Backpack
Available in 15.6” and 17” laptop versions, Matein offers a feature-rich daily laptop and travel backpack at an affordable price. The main compartment expands to give you an extra 7 liters of capacity when needed while features like an external USB charging port, a separate protective laptop and tablet compartment and tons of pockets for organization makes this expandable laptop backpack perfect for those who want big features on a small budget.
Read more about the Matein Expandable Laptop Backpack
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 29.5L (unexpanded) 36.8L (expanded)
External USB port for charging on the go
Separate compartment with padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Hidden pockets in back panel and shoulder strap for valuables
Large front compartment for organizing smaller items
If you are looking for an expanding backpack on a budget then the Matein Expandable Laptop Backpack is probably your best choice. You can usually grab one for under $50 and it has a few features that are normally only found in much more expensive bags.
The hidden pockets are some of our favorites features. On the front of the backpack you have a discreet flap pocket that can comfortably fit an iPad, notebook or similar flat item. The back panel also offers a sneaky zippered pocket that’s perfect for a passport or wallet. This hidden pocket is perfect for keeping your valuables safe when commuting and traveling in crowded areas.
As for quality, it’s worth noting that a cheap backpack won’t have the same top quality as you would find in a $200 travel bag. Our general rule is that when it comes to bags that need to protect your gear you should always buy the best you can comfortably afford. But our experience with Matein bags have been pretty positive. Their pocket placement is intuitive and the fabrics used don’t feel as flimsy as you may assume at this price point. In fact when it comes to cheap Amazon bags, Matein bags are pretty robust and their features are impressive for the price.
Black Ember Forge
The Black Ember Forge is a rugged waterproof convertible bag that can be used as a backpack, soft-brief and shoulder-bag thanks to it’s tuck-away straps and carefully placed handles.
The Forge also converts from a 20 liter day pack to a 30 liter travel bag with the tug of a hidden zipper. The expandable nature of The Forge makes it adaptable and versatile enough for daily commuting, business meetings and weekend trips. If you are looking for a one-bag solution that can adapt to a busy lifestyle then the Black Ember Forge may be just what you are looking for.
Read more about the Black Ember Forge
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (unexpanded) 30L (expanded)
Waterproof: Made of waterproof Cordura textile with YKK Aquaguard zippers
Clamshell compartments unzip 360 degrees for easy access
Tech-focused design: spots for laptop, tablet, chargers and accessories
Ergonomic 3D shoulder straps for max comfort in backpack mode
Black Ember admits that The Forge is a bit over-engineered but we are glad it is. The Forge is built like a tank and can handle busy lifestyles thanks to its rugged waterproof construction and premium materials. Black Ember specializes in waterproof bags like the popular Citadel R2 and The Forge continues the tradition by offering you a completely waterproof 3-Layer Cordura shell, YKK Aquagaurd zippers throughout and aircraft grade aluminum hardware that’s built to last.
We really appreciate Black Ember bags for focusing on busy tech-centric lifestyles. The Forge has spots for all of your tech and is designed around quick and easy access to these items. A suspended laptop sleeve offers great protection and is TSA compliant for travel days. The front pocket also acts as an “essentials station” with pockets for items like a wallet, pens, phone, mobile charger and your keys. This design guarantees that you can wear The Forge as a backpack, briefcase or shoulder bag and always have quick access to the items you need most.
Nomatic Backpack
With dozens of innovative pockets and features, the Nomatic Backpack has changed the game of daily carry and organization. One clever feature is the expanding main compartment that gives you 20% more room for packing in those extra items on busy days.
Read more about the Nomatic Backpack
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L (unexpanded) 24L (expanded)
Made of durable water resistant materials
Backpack holds its shape even when empty for a clean and professional look
Insane amounts of pockets and special features for organizing your gear
Clamshell main compartment that opens fully for easy packing
The Nomatic Backpack has to be one of our favorite daily carry backpacks for its many innovative features, robust high quality construction and versatile design.
As an expandable backpack, Nomatic offers an extra 4 liters of expansion in the main compartment that’s perfect for impromptu shopping after work or to utilize on gym days where you need to carry a few extra items. To expand the Nomatic Backpack you simply have to unzip the wrap-around zipper to release the compressed compartment. On light days, this extra room stays nice and hidden giving the Nomatic Backpack a slim and sleek profile.
Although the Nomatic Backpack is designed to primarily be used as a backpack, you can also tuck away the shoulder straps and convert it into a briefcase on days where you need a more professional look.
Incase A.R.C. Travel Pack
Incase offers an attractive expandable travel backpack option for those who are serious about safeguarding their expensive tech. Each A.R.C. Travel Pack offers a protective tech compartment for both laptop and tablet carry, plenty of pockets for accessories and a must have travel features such as a dedicated shoe compartment and expandable packing compartment that adapts as you need it.
Read more about the Incase A.R.C. Travel Pack
Features at a glance:
Main compartment opens like a suitcase for easy packing
Expandable design gives you an extra 3-inches of packing room when needed
Made of premium eco-friendly water resistant materials
Accessories compartment with pockets for smaller items (phone, wallet, cables)
Separate protective laptop compartment with padded laptop and tablet sleeves
YKK weather resistant zippers on tech compartments
The Incase A.R.C. Travel Pack has to be the best travel backpack Incase has offered to date thanks to its handsome design and great attention to detail.
The A.R.C. Travel Pack is made of four major compartments: the front organizer pocket for easy access to your smaller essentials, a roomy dedicated shoe compartment to keep dirty shoes separate, the main expanding packing compartment and a rear tech compartment with padded sleeves for both a laptop and tablet. Apple users will love the tech sleeves made especially to hold up to a 16” Macbook Pro and up to an 12.9” iPad Pro which eliminates guessing if your tech will fit.
What makes the Incase’s A.R.C. collection stand apart from their previous travel bag options is its focus on sustainability. The A.R.C. Travel Pack is made out of recycled polyester with a water-repellent coating for maximum protection from the elements. Even the back panel, shoulder harness and handles are made with eco-friendly Ortholite Impressions foam. This foam offers incredible breathability and moisture-management to prevent bacterial growth for a more comfortable and hygienic experience.
Opsrey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack 26+6
The Osprey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack was designed with strict airline bag restrictions in mind. When compressed, the Daylite fits most accepted personal item dimensions with a modest 26 liter capacity but it can quickly transform into a 32 liter carry on backpack as needed. This versatility makes the Daylite a great choice for frequent flyers looking for a stylish and reliable travel bag they can take anywhere.
Read more about the Osprey Daylite Travel Pack
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 26L (unexpanded) 32L (expanded)
Airscape back panel to keep you cool and comfortable
Two side stretch water bottle pockets
Designed to fit most personal item and carry on dimensions
Laptop sleeve inside main compartment
Opens like a suitcase for easy packing
Shoulder straps can tuck away for easy overhead storage on airplanes
The Osprey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack does two things very well: comfort and simplicity.
Osprey specializes in hiking backpacks with an emphasis on comfort, breathability and proper fit. The brand does a great job at carrying over this design ethos into their travel packs by including their own Airscape technology on the back panel and shoulder straps for cool and comfortable wear during long travel days.
When it comes to pockets and compartments, the Daylite Travel Pack does a great job at not overwhelming you with too many pockets and compartments. The bag is made up of a main expandable packing compartment, a front organizer compartment for smaller items and two super stretchy side pockets for water bottles, snacks and other items you need immediate access to. Grabbing your laptop is easy thanks to a second zipper that gives you quick-access to where the laptop is stored.
This type of simpler design is perfect for those who aren’t to keen of some of the other over-engineered expandable travel backpacks on this list. Plus each Osprey Daylite Travel Pack is made of eco-friendly and recycled materials and topped off with a PFC-free DWR coating for extra water resistance.
The expandable nature of the Osprey Daylite Expandable Travel Pack 26+6 means that it can be used both as a personal item backpack and carry on backpack for airline travel.
Rolltop Expandable Backpacks
WANDRD PRVKE
The WANDRD PRVKE is a camera/laptop/daily driver backpack with a very special dual access design. The adjustable roll top gives you an extra 5 liters of space inside the main compartment while the backside zipper gives you full clamshell access to the items inside and makes grabbing your laptop and tablet a breeze. If you can’t choose between a traditional rolltop bag and a zippered backpack then the WANDRD PRVKE is the backpack to look at.
We recommend the WANDRD PRVKE if you are looking for an expandable rolltop backpack for it’s heavy duty aluminum buckle and thoughtfully designed looped strap that makes adjusting the capacity simple, easy and very secure. Trust us, this is just one of those backpacks that feels as good as it looks once you have it in front you.
Chrome Barrage Cargo
The Chrome Barrage Cargo is completely waterproof and built like a tank. The outer netting comes in handy for stashing oversized items like a bike helmet, pair of shoes or whatever you heart desires.
What you need to know about the Chrome Barrage Cargo is that it’s completely waterproof and built like a tank. Just look at the thing - it means business.
The Barrage Cargo is made with a welded waterproof liner and abrasion-resistant materials for peace of mind during hectic city commutes. The outer netting comes in handy for stashing oversized items like a bike helmet, pair of shoes or whatever you heart desires. The expandable rolltop gives you anywhere from 18 to 22 liters of room and is easily adjustable with a beefy cinch webbing and buckle mechanism. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack
We recommend the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Backpack if you need a versatile lightweight bag without too many bells and whistles. Not everyone needs nets, a dozen buckles and hundreds of pockets.
The Fieldsmith Roll Top consists of a roomy 30 liter main compartment that can be expanded using the roll top. A zipper on the side of the backpack allows you to quickly grab your laptop from the padded sleeve without disturbing the rest of your gear while a zip pocket up front gives you extra room for smaller essentials. We love the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top as a grab and go bag for days outdoors and short trips plus the different color and pattern options just make life a little bit more fun.
XRAY Expandable Roll Top Backpack
The XRAY Roll Top Backpack is perfect for anyone looking for a small expandable backpack at an affordable price. What sets this rolltop backpack apart is the zipper at the end of roll top that allows you to fully extend the main compartment without worrying if your stuff is going to spill out once you get moving.
The max capacity of the XRAY Expandable Roll Top Backpack is 22.2 liters when fully expanded which a good size if you like to just carry the essentials but could use the extra room on busier days.
13 Best Backpacks that Open Like a Suitcase - Travel Backpack Guide
Why choose between a backpack and a suitcase when you can carry a travel backpack that opens like a suitcase? Here are our top picks.
When it comes to travel backpacks one of the most important features is easy access to your packed clothes, shoes and toiletries.
Unfortunately, most backpacks that are great for daily carry really lack the proper features to successfully pack for a weekend getaway. If you have ever found yourself unpacking an entire backpack just to access a pair of fresh socks at the bottom of the main compartment then you know the struggle.
Rolling suitcases are no better. They are big, bulky and limited in how you can carry them.
Suitcase vs Backpack: Why not both?
The best solution for overnight stays and weekend trips is a combination of both a suitcase and a backpack a.k.a a backpack that opens like a suitcase. These travel backpacks allow you full access to the main compartment but give you the freedom and ease of use of a regular backpack. No more annoying rolling luggage. No more awkward backpack packing. No more compromises.
This list features our favorite travel backpacks that open like a suitcase plus some brands worth checking out for even more options. We focus mostly on travel backpacks in this guide but if you are looking for smaller everyday carry options make sure to check out our list of the best clamshell backpacks - it’s the same concept just in more manageable backpack sizes.
Best Backpacks that Open Like a Suitcase
eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible
Our top pick for the best backpack that opens like a suitcase is the eBags TLS Motherlode Weekender Convertible. This travel backpack has some of the best pocket placement in its class. Along with a spacious main compartment, you’ll find a front loading compartment with organizers, small pockets for sunglasses and magazines and a clever water bottle pocket that can be hidden when not in use. Add in a separate 17” laptop compartment and you have the perfect travel backpack.
The carrying capacity is a whopping 54 liters which is large enough for longer trips. Side compression straps also make it easy to control the size of the backpack when used for short overnight stays where the full capacity is not needed. If 54 liters is too large, eBags has you covered with the smaller 41 liter eBags TLS Mother Lode Junior.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 54L
17” inch padded laptop compartment
Meets most airline carry-on requirements
Nomatic Travel Pack
The Nomatic Travel Pack is the travel bag for anyone looking for a backpack with amazing pockets and organization. This is especially try for those of us that carry lots of tech and need storage for small items like chargers, cables and headphones. There is seriously a pocket for everything. A small sample of pockets include a full mesh pocket panel, magnetic water bottle pockets, RFID safe pocket and hidden pockets for things like a passport or cash.
When it comes to backpacks that open like a suitcase the Nomatic Travel backpack might be the bridge between a daily backpack and a reliable travel bag. This is because the Nomatic Travel Pack is expandable - starting out at 20 liters for daily use and expanding out to 30 liters when it’s time for your next trip.
Features at a glance:
Expandable capacity: 20-30 liters
Lots and lots of useful organizer pockets for small daily essentials and travel items
TSA friendly laptop sleeve
Stubble & Co The Adventure Bag
Designed to adapt to how you travel, the Stubble & Co Adventure Bag is a compressible travel backpack that opens like a suitcase for easy compliance to strict air travel bag requirements and impromptu road trips alike.
What makes the Adventure Bag one of the best travel backpacks currently available is in its intuitive packing design. You have a special pocket for shoes and laundry, a myriad of exterior pockets for stuff like a passport and boarding passes and a roomy clamshell main compartment with plenty of dividers to keep your clothing and travel items organized. Add an exterior padded laptop compartment and you have a bag that keeps all important items easily accessible and within reach.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 42 liters
Designed to be used as a carry on bag - compression straps allow bag size to accommodate any airline.
Waterproof design
AmazonBasics Carry On Travel Backpack
Amazon takes a crack at travel bags with their AmazonBasics Carry On Travel Backpack. This bag is one of the more affordable backpacks that open like a suitcase on the market today yet it still holds up to its more expensive competitors thanks to a large main compartment capacity, smart organizer pockets and convenient travel features.
This backpack is great for anyone looking to replace rolling luggage with an all-in-one travel backpack solution. The dimensions fit most airline carry on requirements and the tuck-away shoulder straps allows you to carry the AmazonBasics Carry On Travel Backpack like a duffel or suitcase. For under $50 we think this is one of the best travel backpack options out there.
Features at a glance:
Expandable main compartment
Large front loading organizer compartment for small items
Separate padded laptop sleeve
Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP45
Pacsafe offers a travel backpack that opens like a suitcase and it is packed with plenty of anti-theft that the brand is known. At 45-liters the Venturesafe EXP45 was designed to replace your carry-on rolling luggage altogether by provide a huge main compartment for clothes, gear and more. We also appreciate the inclusion of a separate organizer compartment for smaller items and your laptop - keeping your packed clothing and daily essentials separate for maximum organization.
The backpack’s anti-theft features include lockable zippers and a clever top latch that hides your zipper pulls on top of the backpack. The PacSafe Venturesafe EXP45 is made out of slash and puncture resistant fabric to protects against thieves as well as to add the toughness you need in a travel bag.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 45L
Anti-theft design
15” laptop padded sleeve
Bange Expandable Travel backpack
If you are looking for a backpack that opens like a suitcase on a budget then we highly recommend taking a closer look at the Bange Expandable Travel backpack. This backpack can be best described as a “tech meets travel” backpack thanks to the bag’s shockproof laptop compartment plus pockets for tech accessories like cables and chargers. It even includes an external USB port for charging your phone on the go!
It’s the small details Bange includes that make this travel backpack worth it - a plastic zip pocket for liquids (shampoo, body wash, etc), plenty of external pockets, lockable zippers and more.
Features at a glance:
Available in medium and large sizes
Expandable design
Water resistant front panel and anti-abrasion construction
Osprey Transporter Carry On 44
The Osprey Transporter Carry On is perfect for anyone looking for a modern travel backpack that is made to accommodate their tech and travel items. This is thanks to the Transporter’s great front panel compartment that makes organizing things like your chargers, passport and more into a simple task. The backpack’s organization is made even better with a large 44 liter main compartment with mesh dividers for easy storage of your clothes.
Along with amazing organization, it’s Osprey’s carry options that makes the Osprey Transporter Carry On special - things like a convertible backpack to duffel design, adjustable sternum strap and waist belt really make a difference when lugging around your bag during busy travel days.
Need something smaller for international travel? Check out the 36L Osprey Transporter Global Carry On backpack.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 44 liters
Separate padded laptop compartment
Convertible backpack to duffel design
Water resistant TPU-coated materials
Topo Travel Bag
Topo Designs is a brand out of Denver known for their high quality outdoor-inspired backpacks and gear. Their Travel Bag is designed to function as an all-in-one travel backpack that meets most airline carry-on requirements yet still has enough room for a few days of travel. Available in both 40 liter and 30 liter sizes the Topo Travel bag has enough pockets, organizers and features to make it the last travel backpack you’ll ever need.
An awesome yet often overlooked feature of the Topo Travel Bag is that it can be used as a modular carry system. The backpack includes Topo’s Packfast Bag Attachment clips that allow you to attach a daypack to the front of the backpack. This allows for capacity expansion plus a way to carry your smaller backpack without taking up room in the main compartment.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 40L or 30L
3 way carry - backpack, duffel or briefcase
Lots of clever pockets for clothing, personal items and tech
Meets most airline carry on requirements
Knack Expandable Knack Pack
The Knack Pack is a hybrid daily use and travel backpack that allows you to use its generously sized suitcase style main compartment when traveling and compress it down to a regular daypack when you get to your destination. This clever design feature allows you to use the Knack Pack in any just about any situation which is why it’s one of our favorite backpacks that open like a suitcase.
The Knack Pack is available in 3 different sizes so you can choose the best one for your needs. The most popular 31 liter Medium Knack Pack is perfect for use as a weekender backpack or airline carry-on while the Large Knack Pack is great for longer trips. Finally, the Small Knack Pack is ideal as an airline personal item backpack when you just want to pack the essentials.
Features at a glance:
Expandable suitcase-style main compartment
15” easy-access padded laptop pocket
Plenty of pockets and compartments for smaller items
Designed to fit underneath airline seats
Solo Grand Travel TSA Backpack
The Solo Grand Travel TSA backpack is a special one because it combines the style and features of a daily work backpack with the must-have features of a travel bag. Equipped with a 17.3” laptop compartment that is TSA-friendly this backpack allows you to keep your tech and personal items in separate compartments. Plus a variety of pockets and organizers on the front of the backpack allows you easy-access to small items you need frequently like pens, headphones and more.
We recommend the Solo Grand Travel TSA backpack to anyone looking for a travel backpack that opens like a suitcase that can still be used at the office or as a gym backpack. The 30 liter main compartment is perfect for packing a change of clothes and the various pockets and laptop compartment still allow you to use it as a functional daily backpack.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 30L
Airport friendly 17.3” laptop compartment
Plenty of smaller pockets and organizers for daily items
Cotopaxi Allpa
The Cotopaxi Allpa proves that minimalist design doesn’t have to be boring. On the outside you’ll find a sleek profile with grab handles and tucked away pockets in all the right places. But on the inside is where the real magic happens - the Allpa backpack opens like a suitcase to reveal a spacious main compartment filled mesh pockets for incredible organization of clothes and gear.
One of our favorite features of the Cotopaxi Allpa is it’s weight-distributing low profile harness system that makes all the difference in comfort when carrying a heavy-load. The Cotopaxi Allpa is also available in various sizes so you are sure to find one that fits just right.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 28-70 liters
Made super tough: TPU-coated 1000D polyester and 840D Ballistic Nylon
Padded laptop and tablet sleeves
Shoulder straps can be tucked away so that bag can be carried like a duffel
Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC
Patagonia’s attention to detail is what makes the Mini MLC one of our favorite backpacks fo city commuters and travelers alike. Features such as a separate TSA-friendly laptop compartment, front admin compartment and a roomy packing compartment with mesh organizers gives you what you need to stay organized on busy days.
For anyone looking for a smaller backpack that opens like a suitcase, we think the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC’s 26 liter capacity is the perfect size for shorter trips or daily gym commutes. In fact, the Mini MLC was designed to fit strict global carry on requirements making the perfect worry-free travel companion.
Looking for a bigger size? Check out the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Backpack series that is available in 40L to 100L sizes.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 26 liters
TSA approved 15-inch laptop compartment
Meets international carry on requirements
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
The Peak Design Travel Backpack is perfect for anyone who values quality materials, weatherproof construction and carry customization. Along with its weatherproof fabrics and zippers, the Peak Design Travel Backpack really shines when it comes to its multiple entry points to the main compartment. You can access the main compartment from the front, or for even more access you can open the backpack with a clamshell zipper from the back. Peak Design even gives you side access with a side zipper for quick grabs.
This versatility is what makes one of the Peak Design Travel Backpack one of the best options for anyone looking for a backpack that opens like a suitcase. Its accessibility is unrivaled thanks to Peak Design’s eye for detail and functionality.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 45L
Multiple entries to the main compartment
Smart pockets for tech and smaller items
Made of weatherproof materials and zippers
More brands to consider
Now that we have listed our picks for the best backpacks that open like a suitcase, we thought we would introduce you to some brands that do a great job at offering similar travel backpacks. These brands are worth checking out if you are looking for different styles of backpacks that have large open clamshell access compartments to replace your rolling luggage the next time you travel.
eBags
The eBags house brand of bags and backpacks offer great options for anyone looking for quality travel backpacks. Along with their popular Mother Lode Weekender Convertible we recommend looking into the eBags TLS Mother Lode Rolling Weekender which offers the same features of the regular Mother Lode but with the addition of wheels and a traditional luggage handle.
For tech enthusiasts, eBags also offers the eTech Carry-On Travel Backpack which features plenty of pockets and organizers made to store tech accessories like a mouse, cables and chargers.
Opsrey Packs
Osprey offers an incredible variety of backpacks for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike with special consideration for proper fit and overall comfort. Those who wear their backpacks for prolonged periods will appreciated that just about every Osprey backpack is available in both a women’s and men’s specific fit.
Whether you are looking for a small 30L travel backpack for weekend trips or a larger 70 liter pack for prolonged travel - you’ll find the size and features you need with Osprey.
Knack Bags
Knack is a brand that comes highly recommended if you are looking for a high quality backpack that doesn’t compromise on style. The brand is known for their innovative convertible Knack Packs that allow for a two-in-one solution for both daily carry and travel.
Knack Packs feature great options for organizing daily essentials and feature a hidden expandable compartment that opens up like a suitcase when you need it. We love these bags for daily work commutes, gym days and as a carry-on option for flights.
Knack currently offers their Knack Pack in two flavors: Their flagship Series 1 and their new Series 2 that gives you better organization and security. For help choosing between the two we recommend checking out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 backpack comparison.
How Big is a 20 Liter Backpack? Visual 20 Liter Backpack Size Guide
How big is a 20L backpack? In this size guide we explore what fits inside a 20L backpack for school, work, travel and the gym using real examples.
Determining if a 20L backpack is the right size for your needs can be a confusing task, especially when shopping online where it’s hard to determine if a backpack will be too large or too small when going just by select specifications.
This is why we put together this visual guide to help you determine the size of a 20 liter backpack and how much it can hold. 20 liters is often considered the “goldilocks” of backpack sizes - not too big, not too small and just the right size for school, light traveling and everyday carry.
20L backpacks: Topo Designs Rover Pack (left), Db Hugger (center) and the Able Carry Daily Backpack (right)
In this guide we will be exploring 3 different 20 liter backpacks:
How Big is a 20L backpack?
The liters of a backpack refers to the internal capacity of a backpack that is made up of either the main compartment or a combination of multiple internal compartments. A main compartment is the largest compartment inside of a backpack and where the bulk of our storage resides.
The number of liters usually excludes smaller compartments for laptops, external pockets and side pockets for water bottles. As a result, any examples we give in this guide will exclude any additional pockets and will just focus on what the 20L main compartment can hold.
Size comparison: Db Hugger 30L vs Db Hugger 20L
What are the dimensions of a 20L backpack?
When determining a backpack’s size there are two different measurements to look out for: external dimensions and internal dimensions.
The external dimensions includes the total height, width and depth of a backpack’s footprint while the internal dimensions only measure the internal packing room of the main compartment.
It’s important to understand that backpack size is not only determined by its number of liters. Extra exterior pockets, backpack shape and shoulder strap/back panel design also contribute to a backpack’s overall size. As a result different 20L backpacks can all be different sizes as we highlight below.
Keep reading for 20L backpack dimension examples
Internal Dimensions of a 20 liter main compartment
For our 20L backpack examples we have the Db Hugger, the Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic and the Able Carry Daily Backpack
We used inches to determine the measurements of the inside of each main compartment (interior dimensions). Note that all of these are 20L backpacks!
Db Hugger main compartment dimensions: 15” H x 10” W x 6” D
Topo Designs Rover Pack main compartment dimensions: 16.8” H x 10.8” W x 4” D
Able Carry Daily main compartment dimensions: 18.5” H x 11.5” W x 5” D
External Dimensions of a 20 liter backpack
Below are the overall external dimensions of three different 20L backpacks. This includes all pockets and compartments and takes account of the various materials used.
Db Hugger external dimensions: 17.71” H x 10.6” W x 6.5” D
Topo Designs Rover Pack external dimensions: 17” H x 11” W x 4.5” D
Able Carry Daily external dimensions: 19” H x 12" W x 7.5” D
As you can see from the measurements above, no two 20L bags are exactly the same size.
If you want to determine the best backpack fit for your height, torso and shoulder size then going with the external dimensions will be a better indicator if a backpack size will be too big or too small.
The internal dimensions are where you will want to focus to determine what fits inside each bag.
How much does a 20L backpack weigh?
The weight of a 20 liter backpack depends on the type of fabrics used, back panel and shoulder harness, hardware material and any additional features that would add to the overall weight. As a result, no two 20 liter backpacks weighs the same!
Here are some examples of real 20L backpack weights:
Db Hugger: 2.18lbs
Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic: 1.4lbs
Osprey Daylite Plus: 1.29lbs
Able Carry Daily Backpack: 2.1lb
Although the weight of each bag depends on a variety of factors, we have found that most 20 liter backpacks weigh between 1.5 and 2.5 pounds.
What Can You Fit in a 20L Backpack?
Now let’s determine how much a 20 liter backpack can hold using some of the most common backpack uses: school, work, travel and the gym. These examples feature the 20 liter Db Hugger.
20L Backpack for School and Work
How much can a 20 liter backpack hold for school or work?
13” Laptop with Case
Tech Case (8” x 5.5” x 2”)
Pencil Case
Water bottle (24oz)
1-inch Binder
5 Subject Notebook
Read more about using a 20L backpack for school or work
How much can a 20 liter backpack hold for school?
A 20 liter backpack can hold school essentials such as a few folders, notebooks and books as well as smaller items such as pens, calculators and tech accessories like chargers and cables. Most 20 liter backpacks have additional padded sleeves for a laptop or tablet for safe storage.
Unfortunately, a 20 liter bookbag may be too small for multiple large textbooks, binders and notebooks. If you are a student who carries many large items you may find a 20 liter backpack for school to be too small.
Is a 20L backpack good for high school or college?
We recommend 20L backpacks for students who like to keep their daily carry light. Tech-focused students who only carry a laptop, tablet, tech accessories along with a few notebooks or binders will find a 20 liter backpack well-suited for their needs.
Is a 20L backpack the best size for work?
A 20 liter backpack is a great size for commuters who need an easy way to carry their daily work items. Inside you can fit essentials such as a lunch, an extra sweater, paperwork as well as tech items such as a laptop, tablet, cables and chargers.
If you need a daily backpack for work that can also fit gym gear or a change of clothing on top of daily work items we would recommend sizing up to a larger work and gym backpack.
20L Backpack for Travel
What fits inside a 20L travel bag?
Toiletries Bag (10” x 6” x 3.5”)
Medium Packing Cube (13.75” x 9.75” x 3”)
Small Packing Cube (11” x 6.75” x 3”)
Inside the packing cubes:
1 Sweater
2 Pants
3 T-Shirts
A few pairs of socks and underwear
Read more about using a 20L backpack for travel
How many clothes can I fit in a 20 liter backpack?
A 20 liter backpack can fit a 2-3 days of clothing and a small bag of toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant, travel size liquids, etc).
Is a 20 liter backpack too small for travel?
We recommend a 20 liter backpack for short-term travel and light packers. Most 20 liter backpacks make great airline personal item backpacks because they are much smaller than standard carry-on backpacks. This means they can comfortably be stored underneath an airline seat. The smaller footprint of a 20 liter backpack also makes for an easy transition to a daypack when needed.
For long trips, going with a larger travel backpack may be a better option.
20L Backpack for the Gym
How much can fit in a 20 liter gym bag?
Towel
Weight Lifting Belt
Weight Lifting Gloves
Water Bottle (24oz)
Workout Shoes (Size 12 Men’s US)
Jump Rope
Read more about using a 20L backpack for the gym
How much gear will a 20L backpack carry?
A 20 liter gym backpack is the perfect size for essential gear such as a change of clothes, snacks, headphones, towels, toiletries, water bottles and smaller items like weight lifting gloves, jump ropes and resistance bands.
Since a 20 liters is on the small side when it comes to gym bags, bulkier items such as a foam roller or a pair of shoes will take up most of the room inside of a 20 liter gym backpack. If you find yourself carrying a lot of bulkier items at once, we recommend sizing up to a larger bag.
Is a 20L backpack big enough for the gym?
A 20L gym backpack is a great size for lighter carry of smaller workout gear and essentials. If you need a bag for sports, boxing and other activities that requires large bulky gear then a 20 liter gym bag may be too small. We recommend with going with a gym backpack that is 30 liters or more for bulky gear.
Our Favorite 20L Backpacks
Db Hugger 20L Backpack
The unique design of the Db Hugger is unlike any backpack we have gotten our hands on yet. The lay-flat clamshell main compartment makes packing and unpacking a breeze while various mesh pockets and a separate laptop compartment gives you the organization you need for just about any adventure. Lightweight and built tough - the Db Hugger is ready for whatever life throws your way.
Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic
Available in a ton of color options, the Topo Designs Rover Classic is a back-to-basics daypack that draws from timeless heritage design. The 20-liter main compartment is just the right size for or daily carry in the city or weekend adventures on the trailhead.
Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
If you are on the hunt for a hardwearing yet lightweight 20L backpack for both travel and days on the trail, then we recommend you give the Osprey Daylite Plus a closer look. The multifunctional internal padded sleeve can be used for up to a 15” laptop or for a hydration bladder. Multiple pockets and a roomy 20 liter main compartment give you the storage you need while its water resistant and ultra-lightweight construction makes Daylite Plus a great daypack for everything from daily work commutes to weekend adventures.
Peak Design Everyday Backpack
The Peak Design Everyday Pack offers the perfect work, photography and travel companion for those who appreciate streamlined style and innovative design. A really neat feature on the Everyday Backpack is its modular interior that allows for custom partitions of photography gear, clothing and more. Add in a water resistant construction, tons of clever pockets and a sleek design and you have a backpack that is as versatile as you are.
Able Carry Everyday Backpack
The Able Carry Daily is one of our favorite daily carry urban backpacks thanks to its amazing internal organization, tough high quality construction and understated minimalist design. At 20 liters, the Able Carry Daily Backpack is roomy enough for your essential carry without the bulk, making it perfect for work commutes and urban exploration alike.
Best Modular Backpacks in 2022 - Travel, Photography and Daily Carry
Find the best modular backpack for travel, photography and daily carry with our list of top picks.
A modular backpack allows you to customize your carry experience either through customizable compartments or with attachments like pouches, straps and special pockets. The best modular backpack systems allow you to the adapt the backpack to your needs and offers a true one-bag solution.
In this list we cover some of the best modular backpacks available today - handpicked for their innovative designs, great quality and unique solutions to adaptive carry.
Best Modular Backpacks
Mission Workshop Arkiv System
The Mission Workshop Arkiv system is the currently the best modular backpack system in terms of available pack sizes and attachments. The bags themselves range from the 20L R6 Field Pack to the extra large 42L Radian and each bag is compatible with a myriad of Arkiv attachments especially designed to hold tech, tools and more.
Read more about the Mission Workshop Arkiv
Arkiv Modular Backpack System
Arkiv accessories are attached to the backpack using Mission Workshop’s Arkiv patent pending rail system that allows the modular accessory to be quickly attached and secured in place. This attachment system is different from what you would find in a MOLLE or hook and loop modular system that depends on velcro straps for attachment. Instead Mission Workshop uses steel hardware that hooks onto the backpack’s rails for a more secure attachment method.
The variety of modular attachments available for the Arkiv system is pretty substantial. There are some great tech attachments for laptops, tablets, cell phones and smaller accessories. Commuters will also enjoy the options for carrying tools and bike accessories. As far as modular backpacks go, the Mission Workshop Arkiv is one of the most innovative and expansive systems we have seen yet.
American Made & Built to Last
If you are looking for a modular backpack that can survive even the most hectic daily commutes then you’ll want to give Mission Workshop Arkiv system a closer look.
In a sea of imported backpacks with questionable quality control it’s great know that we can still rely on Mission Workshop for reliable packs that are built to last. Each Mission Workshop product is made in the USA using the best materials and construction methods.
The backpacks in the Arkiv system are available in a variety of colors and fabrics so you can choose the best materials for your needs. Most Arkiv backpacks and accessories are made from HT500 - a Nylon fabric exclusive to Mission Workshop with superior water and stain resistance that develops a patina over time, similar to full-grain leather. Other fabric options include waxed canvas and Cordura nylon.
All the backpacks in the Arkiv modular system are known for their high water resistance - in fact this is one of the reasons we highly recommend Mission Workshop if you are looking for a waterproof backpack for college or daily commuting. The use of urethane coated YKK zippers, waterproof compartments and weather resistant roll-top design all add up to an extremely durable water resistant backpack that can handle rain and snow like a champ.
Peak Design Everyday Backpack
When it comes to modular backpack systems few are as sleek as the Peak Design Everyday Backpack. Each Everyday Backpack comes equipped with FlexFold dividers to allow for customizable organization inside the main compartment. Add in dozens of other sneaky features and you have a modular backpack that functions as good as it looks.
The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is available in 20 liter and 30 liter sizes so that you can find the perfect fit!
Read more about the Peak Design Everyday Backpack
Peak Design FlexFold Dividers
The Peak Design Everyday backpack keeps the adaptive features on the inside of the bag so that the exterior stays sleek and minimalist. This means no tactical MOLLE webbing and no weird nipple buttons that ruin the aesthetic when not in use.
Peak Design’s FlexFold dividers are not that different from what you normally see in modular photography backpacks. You can adjust each divider to snugly fit your camera body and lenses while keeping parts of the main compartment for your non-photography carry.
Although this backpack has photographers in mind, we believe these FlexFold dividers are great for creating different zones for clothing, shoes and other gear you want to keep separate.
Adjustable laptop sleeve
A really underrated feature on the Everyday Backpack is its adjustable laptop sleeve. Each backpack is equipped with a 15” padded laptop sleeve with a raised bottom for extra drop protection. The bottom of the laptop sleeve can be adjusted to fit a smaller laptop so no matter what size you carry you’ll always have maximum protection. Now that’s smart design!
Exterior Modular Features
There are over a dozen small loops on the exterior of the Everyday Backpack that allow for custom strap attachments when you need them.
The water bottle pockets on each side of the Everyday Backpack allow for the use of an included strap to secure taller items such as a tripod. The strap is hidden inside the side pocket for easy access whenever you need it.
There is also a hidden pocket on the bottom of the bag that holds two longer straps that can attach to many of the loops on the exterior of the Everyday Backpack. These longer straps allow for carry of bulkier items for extra storage. When not in use, you can tuck the straps back into their hidden pocket for a cleaner appearance. Out of sight, out of mind.
Db Journey Modular Backpack Systems
Instead of offering one or two modular backpacks, Db Journey has designed an entire ecosystem of luggage, backpacks and accessories that are all compatible with each other using the brand’s innovative Hook-Up System and growing list of accessories.
Photographers will love what Db has to offer with their CIA camera inserts that can transform the main compartment into a fully modular camera bag. Other great daily carry options include an attachable crossbody bag, packing cubes, and portable pockets for extra storage and EDC organization. These accessories allow you to use just one backpack for daily carry, travel and photography as needed.
Read more about the Db Hook-Up System
The Db Journey Hook Up System
With Db Journey there isn’t just one modular backpack to choose from. Instead the brand has designed each of their bags as a part of a larger ecosystem that plays nicely with all other Db bags and accessories.
This is done through the innovative Db Hook-Up System which allows for luggage, backpacks and small accessories to be hooked up to one another as needed by using an innovating hook and attachment loop system. If you often use your backpack for travel, a system like this can make lugging around multiple bags a much easier task.
WNDRD PRVKE
Designed for photographers, travelers and commuters alike - the WANDRD PRVKE is one of those backpacks that can really do it all. This is thanks to its internal customization features that allow you to divide and organize the inside of the main compartment based on your needs.
Although the WANDRD PRVKE is best known for its amazing water resistance and unique triple-access design - we believe that the modular ability on the PRVKE is one of its most underrated features.
Read more about the WANDRD PRVKE
More than a photography bag
While many modular bags focus on exterior attachments, the WANDRD PRVKE takes a different approach by giving you the freedom to divide and organize the inside of the main compartment. Different WANDRD camera inserts can be used to turn part or all of the main compartment into a modular camera bag. You have the option to purchase the camera inserts separately or include one in a bundle with your PRVKE backpack purchase.
Not a photographer? You can still use the WANDRD PRVKE just like any daily carry backpack with the entire main compartment open for packing. Another option is to divide the main compartment into two smaller compartments using the included divider. However you choose to carry, you won’t run out of options with the WANDRD PRVKE.
Although the internal customization of the WANDRD PRVKE feels like the star of the show, it is worth noting that you do have plenty of external attachment options. Accessory straps allow you to attach larger items to the outside of your bag and WANDRD even offers tech and toiletry bags that can be attached via the PRVKE’s external attachment points.
Unlimited access to your gear
One of our favorite PRVKE features is that inside of the backpack can be accessed in three ways - through the top loading roll-top, from the back through a clamshell zipper and from the side through a smaller zippered opening.
These access points are what allow you to reach whatever is inside the main compartment regardless of how you decide to customize the inside. It’s one of those design features that really grows on you once you start using the bag. Why can’t more bags be this easy to navigate?
Boundary Supply Prima System
The Boundary Supply Prima is one fo the most popular modular backpacks due to its great quality and construction, innovative design and included modular components so that you are ready to go from day one. This means no extra-purchases needed to get the most out of your new bag.
The Boundary Supply Prima System is made of 3 components - the Verge camera case, the Fieldspace laptop sleeve and the Prima backpack itself. These three components allow you to customize and adapt how you carry on an as-needed basis.
Read more about the Boundary Supply Prima
The Boundary Supply Prima is a modular laptop backpack, camera bag and travel backpack in one. The interior main compartment gives you an extra-roomy 38 liter capacity that you can customize with the supplied Verge camera case and Fieldspace laptop sleeve.
The Verge Camera Case
Photographers will love the Verge Camera Case that is included with each Prima backpack purchase. This camera case can be attached to the inside of the main compartment to be accessed from a side zipper for a true photography backpack experience.
With the Verge Camera Case installed, the main compartment still has a whopping 30 liters of packing room on the inside. Unlike other modular backpacks with camera inserts, the Prima makes sure you still have enough room for your travel and daily items.
Need the extra space? No problem! Attach the Verge Camera Case to the outside of the backpack to save on internal room.
The Fieldspace Laptop Sleeve
The Fieldspace Laptop Sleeve is a removable laptop case and admin compartment that can be attached to the inside of the Prima backpack when needed. If you are currently looking for a modular laptop backpack then the Prima is the bag worth considering. Along with the 13” laptop sleeve on the Fieldspace, the Prima backpack also includes a 16” laptop compartment - making the Prima a true dual laptop backpack.
Harber London Leather Backpack
Harber London offers a leather laptop backpack with modular front inserts for those looking for a sophisticated leather bag for work and play. Each Harber London leather backpack is handmade in Spain and crafted from premium full grain leather that only looks better as it ages. The modular front compartment can be swapped between a tech dopp kit, the nomad insert (tech + wallet) or straps for hauling oversized items.
Want a different look? Check out the Harber London Leather Roll Top Backpack which also features a similar modular design.
Read more about the Harber London Leather Backpack
A Modular Leather Backpack
Harber London has developed a unique modular backpack system that allows you choose the front pocket pocket with an insert of your choice. You can purchase the backpack with just one insert or purchase a few different inserts to swap out as needed.
Available modular inserts:
Tech Dopp Kit - 1.5L leather pouch with pockets for cables, chargers and tech accessories.
Nomad Insert - .8L leather wallet with pockets for cards, cash, a phone, pens, charging cables and more.
Strap Insert - Two adjustable straps with leather detailing for hauling oversized items
Along with the exterior modular inserts, Harber London also gives you a bit of modularity on the inside of the backpack as well. Each leather backpack includes two magnetic leather pouches for storing smaller items like chargers and other essentials. Unlike fixed pockets, the leather pouches can be removed entirely whenever you need more room in the main compartment.
Unsurpassed Quality
Let’s start by acknowledging that these bags aren’t cheap. But for those who want a backpack that will last a lifetime, it might be well worth the price of admission for something you’ll only have to buy once.
We recently reviewed the more affordable Harber London Office Backpack and couldn’t say enough positive things about the quality. Great craftsmanship is what Harber London is known for and this high standard extends throughout their bags, wallets and tech accessories.
Harber London uses premium full grain leather in all of their goods. The modular Leather Backpack is available in 3 different leather finishes (tan, black and deep brown) that are rugged enough to handle heavy use but unlike the cheap stuff, it only becomes better looking over time as it develops a unique patina.
Other materials used include a soft microfiber lining on the inside of the tech sleeves, metal zippers and custom made aviation-grade aluminum buckles. Say goodbye to plastic and cheap materials that break over time.
LowePro ProTactic BP 450 AW II
The LowePro ProTactic BP 450 is a modular camera backpack built for photographers who need just one bag that can accommodate multiple different loads of gear. What’s special about ProTactic backpack is that both the inside and outside of the bag are completely customizable.
The SlipLock Modular Exterior allows for attachments of pouches and straps while the adaptive interior can be adjusted to fit your camera gear or removed altogether and converted into a travel or daily laptop backpack.
Read more about the Lowpro Protactic
SlipLock Modular Exterior
The LowePro ProTactic takes a page out of tactical bag design with wrap-around MOLLE-inspired webbing that LowePro calls “SlipLock loops”. This webbing allows for external attachments of pouches, cases and straps. LowePro sells SlipLock accessories separately but you can as easily attach your own tactical pouches.
As a modular backpack, the LowePro ProTactic is a dream. Not only do you get a full front panel of webbing they can also be found on the sides and on the waist belt for maximum modularity. The removable waist belt can hold up to 16 SlipLock compatible accessories for quick access to smaller items.
Adaptive Interior
The interior of the LowePro ProTactic is not too different from most modular camera backpacks. Each backpack includes dividers that can be configured to fit your camera, lenses and other gear.
What makes the LowePro ProTactic special is it’s 4-point access design to the main compartment. Each side of the backpack allows for quick access when you spin the backpack around to your side. You also get a zipper on the top for top-loading access and additional 3/4 zipper for full clamshell access.
Need a travel backpack? No problem. Remove the dividers for a clear and open main compartment that’s ready for packing clothing and more.
Black Ember Citadel R2
Those on the hunt for a modular laptop backpack will love what the Black Ember Citadel R2 has to offer. Not only are there plenty of accessories available to customize your Citadel R2 experience, but each bag is waterproof and built like a tank. If you are looking for a technical backpack with a unique design then we highly recommend you give the Black Ember Citadel R2 a closer look.
The Black Ember Citadel R2 comes in two flavors: The toned-down Citadel R2 Minimal and the completely modular Citadel R2 Modular. Both backpacks have great modular features so choose the one that catches your eye!
Read more about the Black Ember Citadel R2
A Waterproof Modular Backpack
Black Ember prides themselves in designing waterproof bags for urban carry. Each Citadel R2 is made from waterproof textiles and features waterproof YKK zippers. In fact, you can check out our own waterproof test in our Black Ember Citadel R2 Minimal review to see how the bag holds up under wet conditions.
Modular Backpacks for Urban Explorers
Unlike many modular backpacks, the Black Ember Citadel R2 doesn’t focus on photographers as their main audience. Instead the Citadel R2 is designed for everyday urban carry. This means Black Ember focuses on protecting your daily essentials like a laptop, tablet, tech accessories and organization of smaller daily items.
To make the most out of the modular features the Citadel R2 has to offer, we recommend going with the Citadel R2 Modular version. The Citadel R2 Modular offers the same internal carry features as the Citadel R2 Minimal except it features a full modular panel on the front to attach Black Ember accessories. Each accessory is sold separately allowing you to pick and choose exactly what you need based on your carry needs.
Boundary Supply Arris Pack
The Boundary Supply Arris system allows for internal and external customization based on your carry needs. Designed for travelers - the Arris Pack allows you to attach modular camera gear cubes, dopp kits, smaller day bags and even an extra laptop sleeve thanks to the Fieldspace 2.0 attachment. There are a ton of attachments for the Arris system and we believe Boundary Supply did a great job at offering just the right options for every kind of traveler.
Add a highly water resistant construction and sleek design and you have a modular backpack system that blow all other travel backpacks out of the water.
Read more about the Boundary Supply Arris
A Modular Travel Backpack
The Arris Pack was designed as modular system for travel. Work travelers, outdoor adventurers and photographers alike will love the flexibility and attachment options that the Arris system has to offer. Unlike some other modular backpacks, the Arris system can be customized both on the inside and outside of the pack.
On the inside you have the option to turn the main compartment into photography storage thanks to the various Boundary Supply camera cases. The Fieldspace 2.0 allows for portable storage for an additional 13” laptop and accessories. You also have the option to attach a smaller dopp kit bag on the inside using the Boundary Supply Port Kitt. This modular backpack system has tons of options to truly customize your experience.
Externally, the Arris allows for attachment of smaller bags that can be used in conjunction with the Arris backpack for expanded storage and disconnected when needed to be used as smaller daypacks or sling bags.
Modular Fit & Comfort
An underrated feature of the Arris Pack is its modular back panel. That’s right, you can adjust the back panel for a perfect fit! Boundary Supply has designed the top and bottom of the back panels to be completely adjustable so that it can fit a variety of body shapes and sizes.
Along with an adjustable back panel, the Arris system offers tons of accessories to make your experience a comfortable one. You can purchase additional waist belts and stability straps to compliment the already feature-rich Arris shoulder strap and back panel.
Types of Modular Backpacks
External Modularity
Backpacks with external modularity are bags that allow you to attach pouches, straps and special compartments to the outside of the backpack to increase your carry ability and capacity. This is usually done with special hooks, loops and magnets that allow you to attach accessories to the outside of the backpack.
External modularity is best for users who want to keep the core of their carry consistent but occasionally need to carry a diverse range of items for different activities. Examples of external modular attachments include special pouches for camera gear, smaller detachable daypacks, dopp kits for travel and laptop or tablet sleeves.
External modularity - Mission Workshop Arkiv System
Internal Modularity
Backpacks with internal modularity feature their modular components on the inside of the bag instead of on the outside. This allows for the same backpack to be used for a diverse range of activities from travel to photography by adding and removing components on the inside for a custom setup.
Modular Camera Backpack - HEX Back Loader DSLR Backpack
Modular Camera Bags
Unlike modular backpacks for travel and daily carry, modular camera bags are designed for the primary purpose of carrying photography gear.
The modular components in a camera backpack usually consist on interior dividers that can be customized to fit your specific gear. Other features usually include clamshell access to the main compartment and side pockets so that you can sling the bag around to quickly access your camera on the move.
We recommend a modular camera bag to photographers and videographers who need a reliable way to carry and access their equipment with less compromise than what you would get from a multi-use modular backpack.
Best Carry On Backpacks for Women: One Bag Travel for Flights
Discover the best carry on backpacks for women who are serious about one bag travel. These backpacks fit the carry on requirement for most airlines and are available in comfortable women’s fits.
One bag air travel is easy with a carry on backpack. Backpacks are more comfortable to carry than heavy duffels and are usually more versatile than wheeled luggage - making them perfect for anyone who wants to travel light.
There is only one problem… and that’s fit. If you are a woman or someone with a smaller frame, you may find that many standard carry on backpacks are simply too large to wear comfortably when the bag is full.
The solution is to go with a backpack in a women’s fit. You’ll find that carry on backpacks for women have narrower shoulder straps, adjusted bag length to accommodate shorter torsos, and have more comfortable chest and waist belt placements.
Translation? A women’s fit backpack is going to look better and feel better than a standard carry on backpack.
In this buying guide we specifically focus on the best carry on backpacks for women. This means taking into consideration the backpack’s fit in addition to the stuff we also find important in a travel bag like size, quality and features.
Airline Carry On Bag Size Requirements
Backpacks make great carry on bags thanks to their comfort and versatility. But just as with personal item backpacks, it’s important that your carry on bag fits the size requirements for the airline you are going to board.
The rule of thumb for a carry on is that the bag must fit in the overhead compartment of the airplane cabin. If the bag is too large then it will be considered a check-in bag and you may be responsible for additional charges.
A carry on bag must fit in the overhead compartment.
Below is a chart of the most popular airlines in the United States with their maximum carry on bag size. This chart was last updated on October 2019. Make sure to check your airline’s official website for updated carry-on size requirements.
| Airline | Carry On Size |
|---|---|
| American Airlines | 22" x 14" x 9" |
| Alaska Airlines | 22" x 14" x 9" |
| Air Canada | 21.5" x 15.5" x 9" |
| Delta | 22" x 14" x 9" |
| Frontier | 24" x 16" x 10" |
| JetBlue | 22" x 14" x 9" |
| Southwest | 24" x 16" x 10" |
| Spirit | 22" x 18" x 10" |
| United Airlines | 22" x 14" x 9" |
The carry on backpacks featured here are at or below the maximum carry on size for most airlines.
Best Carry on Backpacks for Women
Osprey Fairview 40
The Osprey Fairview 40 is our favorite carry on backpack for women thanks to its roomy 40 liter capacity, incredible quality and different sizing options that allows for the perfect fit.
There are a few airline-friendly features on the Osprey Fairview 40 that we really like, starting with the bag’s ability to hide the shoulder straps and hip belt. This makes it less-frustrating to fit the backpack into overhead compartments by avoiding dangling straps. The padded grab handles also makes it super easy to grab the backpack from overhead compartments and carry as a duffel if needed.
Another great feature is the Fairview’s lockable zippers and compartments. The main compartment is large enough for a few days of clothes and personal items for easy-peasy one bag carry.
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 19.3” x 13.8” x 8”
Capacity: 38L or 40L (depending on size)
Women’s specific fit
The Osprey Fairview is available in sizes Extra Small/Small or Small/Medium
Knack Expandable Knack Pack
The Knack Pack is an expandable multi-functional travel bag that also makes the perfect carry on backpack for women thanks to its multiple size options. The expandable feature allows you to use the Knack Pack as both a daypack and a travel pack as needed. This means less bags to carry and less hassle once you arrive at your destination.
Key features include a main compartment that opens like a suitcase, a special front stash pocket for essentials like passports and tickets and separate laptop and tablet pockets. Knack does a great job at offering a versatile backpack that can be what you need it when you need it.
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 19” x 12” x 9.5” (Medium Knack Pack)
Capacity: 17-31L (Medium Knack Pack)
Fits under airline seats and overhead compartments
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
The Cotopaxi Allpa is an incredibly durable and functional travel backpack that was made for life on the move. In addition to a roomy suitcase-style main compartment, the Allpa also includes padded tablet and laptop sleeves, water bottle pockets and plenty of mesh compartments to keep things organized. The backpack straps can even be tucked away for easy handling in overhead compartments on busy flights.
We consider the Cotopaxi Allpa one of the best carry on backpacks for women because of it’s various size options. 35 liters is perfect for most people with smaller frames, but Cotopaxi also offers different Allpa size options that are carry-on safe.
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 20” x 12” x 8”
Capacity: 35L
Available in various sizes (28L, 35L, 42L, 50L) for the perfect fit
Thule Landmark Travel Pack 40L
What we love about the Thule Landmark is its emphasis organization. The travel pack allows for secure storage of clothing, shoes and more inside its roomy main compartment while still giving you easy-access pockets to the things you need most while traveling; passport, laptop, water bottles and more. The pocket placement on the very top of the backpack feels intuitive and makes it super easy to grab small items when the backpack is stood up the ground.
Along with easy-access pockets, the Thule is also designed for safety. The zippers are lockable and the backpack even features a hidden anti-theft pocket for important items like cash or a passport. If you are looking for one of the best carry on backpacks for women then we recommend you give the Thule Landmark 40L a closer look.
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 21.5” x 13” x 9.8”
Volume: 40L
Women’s specific fit
Peak Design 30L Travel Backpack
The Peak Design 30L Travel Backpack is the little sister to the full-sized 45L Travel Backpack. It’s the same design but with more compact dimensions, making it a great carry on backpack for women who would otherwise find the full sized Travel Backpack too large.
What makes this backpack special is its amazing water resistant construction and awesome organization. It features plenty of flight-friendly pockets for water bottles and tech plus the main packing compartment expands for trips when you need extra room. Available in a few sleek colors and featuring a minimalist design, the Peak Design 30L Travel Backpack is for those who expect more from their carry on backpack.
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 20.9” x 13” x 7.9” (fully expanded)
Capacity: 27-33L
Also available in the larger 45L version that is carry-on safe
Eagle Creek Tour Travel Pack 40L S/M
Made for those who love to explore, the Eagle Creek Tour Travel Pack gives you all you need for a busy day at the airport, an evening of sightseeing or an outdoor adventure all in one backpack. A women’s specific ergonomic fit for shorter torsos and narrower shoulders also means you will be comfortable no matter how busy your travels.
The expandable 40 liter design ensures that the Tour Travel Pack can be used as a carry-on backpack on most airlines. Top and side grab handles makes it simple to store in overhead compartments and the bag even features lockable zippers for extra safety.
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 20.5” x 13.12” x 8.75”
Capacity: 40L
S/M size designed to fit people with short torsos and narrower shoulders
AmazonBasics Carry On Travel Backpack
For those on a tight budget, Amazon offers a great carry on backpack option under their own AmazonBasics brand. Although it’s a unisex design, the shoulder straps and back panel provide a comfortable experience for such a budget backpack.
Some useful travel features include a spacious main compartment with a suitcase opening, separate access laptop compartment and removable shoulder straps so you can convert the backpack into a duffel or shoulder bag. Not bad for an inexpensive travel bag!
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 21.5” 15.8” x 8.2”
Capacity: ~35L
Unisex design and fit
Osprey Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack 44
Osprey offers a reliable women’s backpack for travel made of recycled and eco-friendly materials with the Daylite Carry-On Travel Pack 44. The lightweight construction allows for more comfortable carry plus less stress when it comes to dreaded airline carry-on weight limits.
A suitcase-style main compartment and various pockets offers 44 liters of packing room while still being under the carry-on dimensions of most airlines. As a carry on backpack for women, we love the fun colors, easy to use compartments and rugged water resistant construction that can handle even the busiest of travels.
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 21.5” x 14” x 9”
Volume: 44L
Unisex fit
Db The Strøm 30L Backpack
The Db Strøm is a unisex bag made for life on the move. Available in a ton of fun colors, the Strøm unique design gives you clamshell access to the main compartment for easy packing while an external laptop compartment and additional top pocket makes accessing travel essentials a breeze.
As a carry on backpack, we love the Db Strøm for its ultra-lightweight construction. This is thanks to Db’s special “rib cage” design that makes each backpack super lightweight while ensuring great protection of the contents inside. This technology comes in handy when packing with airline weight-limits in mind.
Size and Fit:
Dimensions: 21.6” x 12.59” x 8.66”
Capacity: 30L
Unisex design and fit
Best Brands for Women’s Carry On Bags
This list focuses on women’s carry on backpacks but there are so many more options and it’s worth considering your options before finally settling on a carry on bag.
We like backpacks because of their hands-free carry that really makes a difference during a busy trip, but there are also tons of other options out there like duffel bags, wheeled carry on luggage and large convertibles that give you the best of both worlds.
Below are some of our favorite brands for women’s carry on bags. We chose these brands because they have lots of options for women-specific fits or because they offer smaller versions of already popular carry ons.
eBags
eBags is an online retailer that specializes in backpacks and bags for every occasion. Their own eBags brand of backpacks and bags have become popular in the travel space because of their intuitive designs and good quality. If shopping for a women’s specific fit, eBags offers “Junior” versions of their popular travel bag styles as well as a variety of other styles to choose from.
Osprey Packs
We recommend Osprey Packs to anyone looking for a durable travel backpack with a women’s specific fit as they have a variety of bag options to choose from. Osprey is known for their speciality outdoor backpacks for hiking, backpacking and travel and do a great job at providing enough size variety to accommodate a wide range of body types.
Cotopaxi
Like Osprey, Cotopaxi is a brand that specializes in travel bags and gear. The brand offers many of their popular styles in various sizes to accommodate different body types and carry styles. Along with the carry on backpack styles on this list, Cotopaxi has many more bag styles for traveling when size constrictions are not an issue.
What sets Cotopaxi apart from other brands is their commitment to doing good. With each sale Cotopaxi donates 1% of the profits towards addressing poverty and supporting community development around the world.
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15 Best Recycled Backpacks - Some brands will surprise you!
We list our favorite backpacks made from recycled materials for travel, daily carry and outdoor adventures . With more brands now offering recycled backpacks than ever before, some bags on this list may 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
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.
19 Best Sling Backpacks - Laptop and Tablet Side Backpack
Explore the best sling and side backpacks for laptop, tablet and everyday carry from top brands. Perfect for college, work or daily commutes these sling backpacks are sure to be packed with features you’ll love.
What’s a sling backpack? It’s a one-shoulder bag that has the capability to be worn on your back, side or even chest and they are great for accessing items quickly. Some other common terms are sling pack, sling bag or side backpack.
One thing you should know about sling backpacks is that they are usually much smaller in capacity than a regular two-shoulder backpack. This is because carrying a large heavy bag just isn’t as comfortable with all that weight on one shoulder. A heavier bag also doesn’t have the same functionality to just swing around for quick access which is usually the main benefit of choosing a sling backpack over a regular backpack.
So where does that leave us? Expect a smaller capacity (under 20 liters) and more of an emphasis on easy-access pockets and compartments. But small or less doesn’t mean worse.
There are tons of sling backpacks available today that make amazing everyday carry bags. Some have dedicated laptop and tablet pockets, others are fully waterproof and more than a few have really unique features that you’ll never know how you lived without.
Here are 19 of the best sling backpacks available today.
Best Sling Backpack for Laptop
Peak Design Everyday Sling
Made for both photography and everyday carry, the Peak Design Everyday Sling is a versatile sling backpack for those who want the convenience of a sling bag but still need the extra room for their daily essentials. We love that the 10-liter version is equipped with a 13-inch laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets while still feeling compact and streamlined thanks to its minimalist design. These features coupled with durable weatherproof materials really elevates the Peak Design Everyday Sling 2.0 to one the best sling backpacks for laptops.
The Peak Design Everyday Sling 2.0 comes in 3 different sizes: 3L, 6L and 10L for varying capacity of carry. We recommend the 10-liter size for anyone looking for a laptop sling backpack and the 6-liter version for just tablet carry.
Capacity: 10L
13” Laptop Sleeve
Doubles as an everyday carry and photo sling: can fit Mirrorless camera body, lenses and other gear.
Boundary Supply Arclite Sling Pack
The Boundary Supply Arclite Sling Pack offers the convenience of a sling bag with full side backpack functionality thanks to its large 15 liter capacity, padded laptop sleeve and numerous organizer pockets for smaller items. Plus, it just looks really cool and futuristic and we really like that.
If you are worried about getting caught in the rain then you’ll be pleased to learn that Boundary Supply has you covered. Each Arclite Sling Pack is equipped with waterproof YKK zippers and the exterior fabrics are DWR coated for water resistance. Anyone looking for a high-performing laptop sling backpack that is sure to turn some heads will love what the Boundary Supply Arclite Sling Pack has to offer.
Capacity: 15L
Fits 13” laptop in padded sleeve and up to a 15” laptop in main compartment.
Versatile: Left or right shoulder carry options
HEX Ranger XL Sling
HEX offers the ultimate laptop sling backpack for those who are looking to fill the gap between the convenience of a sling bag and the functionality of a backpack. The Ranger Sling XL has an impressive array of pockets for your laptop, camera and accessories plus its water-resistant ballistic nylon construction offers peace of mind that your gear will be protected.
The versatile main compartment can be used to store your DSLR and lenses thanks to the included padded dividers. Adjust or remove the dividers all together for a roomy main compartment that can accommodate packing for daily carry or a weekend trip. If you are looking for the best sling backpack for a laptop that offers excellent customization for whatever life throws your way then the HEX Ranger Sling XL is definitely worth a closer look.
Capacity: 15L
13” Padded laptop compartment
Clamshell zipper main compartment allows for multiple access points
Hardwearing water-resistant ballistic nylon construction
Alpaka Bravo Sling Max (Pro)
The Alpaka Bravo Sling Max was designed as stylish laptop bag while still keeping the convenience of a compact sling bag. With a roomy 10 liter capacity, this sling backpack allows you to carry both a laptop and tablet with plenty of pockets for organizing smaller essentials. Need to charge your device? Alpaka Bravo Sling Max includes an integrated external USB port for on-the-go charging.
We are big fans of Alpaka products for their emphasis on security. The Alpaka Bravo Sling Max features anti-theft lockable zippers to keep your tech safe. Slashproof fabric and an RFID blocking front compartment will also give you peace of mind when out and about. With all of these features and more we think the Alpaka Bravo Sling Max is a versatile laptop sling backpack for everything from travel to running weekend errands.
Capacity: 10L
Fits 14” Macbook Pro in laptop sleeve
12.9” iPad Pro fits in rear tablet compartment
Multiple compartments and smaller pockets to keep everything organized
Nomatic Navigator Lite Sling 10L
The Nomatic Navigator Lit Sling features a slim profile yet is wide enough to carry a 13” laptop in its interior tech sleeve. But don’t let its minimalist exterior fool you - this side backpack features a hidden side water bottle pocket, a fleece lined sunglasses pocket and a ton of internal pockets for keeping you organized.
Made for both travel and daily carry, the Nomatic Navigator Sling is a laptop sling bag that definitely lives up to the hype.
Capacity: 10L
Also available in smaller 6L & 1L sizes
13” Macbook Pro laptop sleeve
One of the few sling backpacks with an external water bottle pocket
Cotopaxi Chasqui 13L Sling
The Cotopaxi Chasqui Sling is the best side backpack for reliable everyday carry thanks to its large 13-liter capacity, internal laptop sleeve and weather resistant construction. For travel days - you’ll love the hidden back panel pocket for extra security and wrap-around zippers that makes it easy to grab-and-go from either side of the pack.
Available in a plenty of fun colors - the Cotopaxi Chasqui is a sling laptop backpack that definitely makes a statement without compromising on good design.
Capacity: 13L
Laptop sleeve in main compartment
Weather-resistant construction
Load-lifter on shoulder strap to dial in the perfect fit
Boundary Supply Stasis Sling
Boundary Supply offers a versatile sling laptop backpack for both daily tech carry and outdoor play. This is thanks its waterproof construction and thoughtful design that allows you to use the 13-inch laptop compartment as a hydration bladder pocket complete with a hose pass-through.
The unique main compartment buckle and strap design allows it expand and compress as needed to reduce bulk on light days. Waterproof materials, a ventilated EVA back panel and unique main compartment design makes the Boundary Supply Stasis one of the most comfortable and versatile laptop sling backpacks yet.
Capacity: 9L
13” Padded laptop compartment
Waterproof construction
Expandable front pocket with magnetic auto-locking buckle
VGOAL Laptop Sling Bag
VGOAL offers an affordable sling laptop backpack option with some pretty great features for the price. Along with padded laptop and tablet sleeves, the VGOAL Laptop Sling Bag includes plenty of features for daily and travel carry such as an internal water bottle pocket, hidden anti-theft pocket and an external USB port for charging on the go.
13.3” laptop + tablet sleeve
External USB charging port
Anti-theft rear zipper design
Best Tablet Sling Backpack
Mission Workshop The Spar Sling Pack
The Spar by Mission Workshop is a best in class sling backpack system that is more than meets the eye. What makes The Spar special is it’s carry options. The main compartment entry can be configured as a simple flap down or as a roll-top. You even have the option to purchase a backpack harness system to turn the sling bag into a daypack. Add in a micro-fleece lined tablet pocket, quick-access pockets and weatherproof materials and you have one of the best sling backpacks on the market today.
Capacity: 8L
10.5” microfleece-lined iPad sleeve
Can be converted to backpack with optional backpack harness
Made in USA
Timbuk2 Vapor Sling Bag
Designed for both style and functionality, the Timbuk2 Vapor is a lightweight sling backpack with some serious pockets for daily carry. In addition to it’s 7-liter main compartment, you’ll find a padded tablet pocket, a tricot-lined phone pocket and more padded pockets for small items like glasses and tech. This sling is recommended to anyone who values easy and quick access to their essentials without too much fuss.
Capacity: 7L
10.5” padded tablet sleeve
Feels nice: Made of a soft feel satin fabric
Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack
While the Pacsafe Vibe 325 sling pack may look minimalist in design it’s anything but simple. Pacsafe has done a great job with small anti-theft design features that make all of the difference when traveling or commuting.
Not only does Pacsafe include a 10” padded table sleeve and plenty of internal organizer pockets but the Vibe 325 is also built from the ground up for safety. Features include an anti-theft PopNLock security clip to allow you to lock the bag to a chair or table leg, an integrated zipper locking system and a eXomesh slashguard that prevents razors from penetrating the material. It’s these features and more that make the Pacsafe Vibe 325 one our favorite sling bags for travel and city carry.
Capacity: 10L
10” padded tablet sleeve
Anti-theft: Designed to keep your stuff safe
Alpaka Bravo X V2 Sling
Made for carrying tech on the move, the Alpaka Bravo X V2 is a tablet sling backpack that has some pretty awesome features found in few other slings. Along with a padded 11” tablet pocket you’ll find an external USB charging port and hidden SIM card holder.
What sets Alpaka bags apart from other brands is their focus on safety and security. The Bravo X Sling V2 uses waterproof zippers for every compartment along with a weatherproof fabric construction for maximum protection against the elements. Anti-theft features are also abundant - each bag is made with a Kevlar cutproof mid-layer to protect against slashes. Lockable zippers and an RFID blocking rear compartment also add to peace of mind.
Fits up to 11” iPad Pro
External USB charging port
Anti-theft: Anti-slash materials and lockable zippers
Made with weatherproof fabrics and waterproof zippers
tomtoc EDC Tablet Sling Bag
The Tomtoc EDC Tablet Sling Bag is perfect for anyone looking for a tablet sling backpack on a budget thanks to its sleek profile, eco-friendly recycled materials and variety of pockets for organizing daily essentials. As a tablet sling you’ll have a padded compartment to protect a tablet or small laptop up to 11 inches.
Capacity: 7L
11” padded tablet sleeve
Stylish minimalist design at an affordable price
Best Sling Bags and Side Backpacks
Knack Expandable Sling Bag
Featuring Knack’s patent-pending expandable design, the Knack Expandable Sling Bag goes from 6 liters of packing room to 10 liters when you need it. The anti-microbial lining, lockable zippers and water resistant materials makes this sling bag perfect for everything from gym days to travel. As for tech, the expandable main compartment can hold a laptop or tablet up to 12.3” and up to an 10.2” tablet inside the secondary compartment.
Capacity: 6L (10L expanded)
Expandable main compartment
Water resistant materials and zippers
Anti-microbial lining on the inside
Patagonia Atom Sling
The Patagonia Atom is a daily-driver sling backpack that’s built to handle everything from running quick errands to a leisure day outdoors thanks to its tough nylon construction and DWR water repellent coating. Each Patagonia Atom is equipped with plenty of pockets including a padded tablet sleeve, easy-access phone pocket and a comfortable single strap harness system designed for all-day wear.
Padded tablet sleeve
Comfort first: ergonomically designed single strap design
Water resistant
Chrome Industries Kadet Sling
The Chrome Kadet is a commuter messenger bag meets sling side backpack that combines the best of both worlds into a compact package. The roomy 9L capacity is perfect for lugging daily essentials plus a few extras such as a camera or light jacket.
Made with military grade materials - this side backpack doesn’t mess around. The 1050D Nylon construction is as tough as nails and the bag even features Chrome’s iconic aluminum buckle that makes a satisfying “click” whenever you use it.
Capacity: 9L
Includes a stowable stabilizing sternum strap
Buckle doubles as a bottle opener
Tough as nails military grade construction
Nomatic Messenger Bag
The Nomatic Messenger Bag is a special one because it includes all of the functionality of a good backpack with the convenience of side carry. Nomatic packs it with all sorts of great features such as a water bottle pocket, tons of organization pockets and even a full perimeter zipper that gives you complete access to the 15 liter main compartment. If you are looking for good a sling backpack don’t write off messenger bags altogether before you take a closer look at the Nomatic Messenger Bag. You may be surprised with what you find!
Capacity: 15L
Fully padded laptop compartment
Organized: Tons of inside pockets and organizers
5.11 LV10 Sling Pack 13L
The 5.11 LV10 is a discrete tactical sling that can be worn on your back or as a side backpack for instant access to your gear. A tablet compartment, water bottle pocket, and a whole 13 liters of carry capacity make this sling backpack a beast of a bag!
Capacity: 13L
Padded tablet sleeve
Internal MOLLE for attachments
Black Ember TKS Waterproof SlinG
The Black Ember TKS is a waterproof sling bag that acts as a lightweight tech kit when you are on the move. The inside is designed to hold all of your daily essentials like a phone, battery pack, cables, glasses, face mask and more!
It’s no secret that Black Ember makes some of our favorite waterproof backpacks and their newest TKS sling bag really keeps a lot of the design features that make their full-size backpacks so great. Waterproof YKK zippers and textiles protect your valuables from even the harshest weather conditions while a sleek minimalist design keeps you looking your best.
Capacity: 2.5L
An essentials-only portable tech kit
Waterproof zippers and materials keep valuables dry
Our Favorite Brands for Slings
Alpaka
Alpaka is a small brand with a large offering of sling, messenger and side backpacks for those who value great quality, creative designs and sustainability in the manufacturing process. Their sling bags are tech focused and offer great features such as padded laptop and tablet compartments, external usb ports for charging on the move and weather resistant materials to keep your expensive gear nice and dry.
Nomatic
Nomatic is known for their innovative travel backpacks and their slings definitly follow that same vein of great quality and impressive features. With a Nomatic sling bag you can make sure you are getting a water resistant bag with some serious pockets for organization. In fact, it’s pretty impressive just how many features they can pack in just one bag. Whether you are looking for a larger laptop side backpack or a small sling for just the essentials - Nomatic has you covered.
Pacsafe
Perfect for urban commuters and travelers alike, Pacsafe sling bags are the best bang for your buck when it comes to great style, reliable quality and the best anti-theft safety features. Pacsafe offfers a few different styles of slings and side backpacks that are worth taking a closer look at. Styles include anti-theft camera slings, everyday carry slings and smaller sling packs for just your essentials.