14 Best Small Backpacks for Men - Under 20 Liters

Let's face it, not every guy needs a big bulky backpack. While large backpacks are great for carry-on travel or carrying gym shoes, sometimes a small pack is all you need.

Unlike a laptop sling bag, choosing a small or mini backpack can offer more balanced weight distribution and increased storage capacity. Backpacks typically distribute weight more evenly across both shoulders, especially when carrying heavier loads. In short, small backpacks are more comfortable.

In this guide, we looked at dozens of backpacks to find the best small backpacks for men that are 20 liters or smaller. These backpacks are just right for everyday use while hitting that sweet spot of stylish design, durable fabrics and easy access to essentials.

We also thought about how well they fit. Even though there are lots of mini backpacks on the market, not all of them have shoulder straps that are a good fit for men with wide shoulders. The truth is that a lot of brands use "mini backpack" as a code-word for a women’s fit. So, if you're searching for a small men's backpack with the perfect fit, then you're in the right place!

Best Small Mens Backpacks (Under 20L)

Nomatic Navigator

Once you delve into everything the Nomatic Navigator has to offer, it's easy to see why it's our top choice. As a small laptop backpack, the Nomatic Navigator for easy daily or travel carry. There is a padded laptop compartment, and front pockets and side pockets for easy access to items like a phone, chargers and water bottle.

The Nomatic Navigator also makes a great anti-theft backpack thanks to its tamper-proof zippers and sneaky hidden pockets. Need more packing room? This expandable backpack goes from 15 liters to 21 liters in seconds.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 15L (expandable to 21L)

• 16" x 10.25" laptop compartment

• Super comfortable foam adjustable straps and back panel (includes sternum strap)

• Lots of zipper and mesh pockets for organization

Nutsac Rucksac Laptop Backpack

Known for their American-made EDC and leather goods, Nutsac offers the perfect small backpack for men. The Nutsac Rucksac stays true to traditional rucksacks with a rugged waxed canvas exterior, leather bottom and a roomy 20L interior.

But don't let the simple heritage design fool you. The Rucksac includes a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets to keep your organized. A really great feature on the Nutsac Rucksac is the side zipper that gives you access to the main compartment from a different location. This clever design allows you to quickly grab items from the inside without having to fuss with the top buckle. Check out our Nutsac Rucksac review for a closer look.

Key Features

• 20L storage capacity

• Padded laptop sleeve

• Water-resistant waxed-canvas and full-grain leather construction

• Made in USA

Topo Designs Rover Pack

If you are looking for a small men's backpack in a timeless design, the Topo Rover might be for you. Each Rover Pack is equipped with a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of external pockets for quick-access to essentials. In fact, the side pockets are some of the best water bottle holders we have used.

The Rover is a pretty lightweight backpack thanks to its recycled nylon construction. But it's still built tough. Each pack is equipped with heavy-duty YKK zippers and comfortable spacer mesh adjustable shoulder straps for heavy loads. Other awesome features offered include compression straps on the side and shoulder straps with attachment points for pouches and accessories.

Key Features

• 20L storage capacity

• 15" laptop sleeve

• Spacious main compartment in a compact design

• Easy access front, side and top pocket

Day Owl Backpack

With a stylish design and high quality construciton, the Day Owl backpack is a great option for anyone looking for a men's small backpack for daily commutes and travel.

It's all about the small details with this pack. The adjustable straps are designed to never dangle for a cleaner look. There are a ton of exterior pockets for quick access to essentials (including a hidden side pocket for a water bottle). And lastly, it gives you a roomy main compartment with plenty of interior pockets for organization.

Key Features

• Available in lots of colors

• 16-inch laptop compartment

• Interior pockets for organization

• Water resistant canvas construction

Stubble & Co The Backpack mini

The Backpack Mini by Stubble & Co is a mini backpack for men that is as functional as it is stylish. It features a water-resistant canvas and full grain leather construction. You also get plenty of great comfort features like a cushioned back panel and ergonomic shoulder straps.

We love this mini backpack for its convenient access to essentials without the bulk of a large main compartment. For everyday carry, the Backpack Mini doesn't disapoint. Each pack includes a 13-inch padded laptop sleeve and pockets to organize smaller items.

Key Features

• 10.5L storage capacity

• 13" laptop sleeve

• Water-resistant design

• Padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel for a comfortable fit

Recycled Firefighter The Battalion 12HR

Recycled Firefighter offers The Battalion 12HR for those who want a Made in USA backpack that is built to last. This small men’s backpack features 12 liters of volume in a slim and compact profile.

The clamshell access design and internal mesh pockets makes organization a breeze. While the main compartment even doubles as a hydration sleeve so that you can use the Battalion 12HR as an ultralight pack for outdoor activities. With these features and more, it's no wonder that The Battalion made it on our list of favorite GoRuck GR1 alternatives.

Key Features

• 12L capacity

• Clamshell lay-flat main compartment

• Heavy duty mil-spec construction

• Made in USA

Harber London Classic Rucksack

The Harber London Classic Rucksack is a small backpack for men with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and timeless design. Despite its vintage look, this pack is full of modern features. Inside you'll find spots for your electronic devices and valuable items to keep you organized on long days.

One of our favorite features are the swiveling adjustable shoulder straps. These straps adjust to the width of your shoulders for the perfect fit. With no sternum strap or clunky hip belt, the Harber London Classic Rucksack keeps a sleek look. This small footprint also makes the Classic Rucksack a great personal item backpack when traveling by air.

Key Features

• 17.4L capacity

• Padded 16-inch laptop and 13-inch tablet sleeves

• Heavy duty mil-spec construction

• Made in USA

Everki Studio Slim

Buy on Amazon

The Everki Studio Slim is for anyone looking for a small business backpack for work travel or daily carry. While the outside keeps it conservative, the inside of this backpack is packed with quick access pockets for a laptop, tablet and daily essentials. There are even extra exterior pockets for water bottles and a pocket on the shoulder strap for valuables like metro or credit cards.

Unlike a mini backpack that benefits people with a short torso length, the Everki Studio Slim gives you a thin profile with a proportional footprint on the back.

Key Features

• 14 liter capacity

• Padded laptop and tablet sleeves

• Wide comfortable shoulder straps

• Great for travel: trolley sleeve, hidden pockets

PACSAFE VIBE Anti-Theft Backpack

The Pacsafe Vibe is one of our favorite anti-theft backpacks thanks to its lockable zippers, cut-resistant fabric and special pockets for valuable items. It even includes a special RFID-blocking pocket for protecting a passport and credit cards from digital identity theft.

As a daily backpack, you can expect lots of small pockets on the inside to keep organized. The 20 liter main compartment and laptop sleeve makes the Pacsafe Vibe a great small men’s backpack option for daily carry.

For outdoor activities, simply stash a water bottle in the side pocket or utilize the hydration sleeve and you are ready for a day out in the sun. The breathable mesh back panel and adjustable sternum strap makes sure the Pacsafe Vibe is always a comfortable fit.

Key Features

• 20L capacity

• Padded 13" laptop sleeve

• Breathable mesh shoulder straps and back panel, includes sternum strap

• Anti-theft design with lockable zippers

Got Bag Easy Pack Zip

The Got Bag Easy Pack Zip backpack is an excellent choice for guys looking for a mini backpack that's practical and eco-friendly. With a 17-liter capacity, it's just the right size for carrying your daily essentials. You'll find a front pocket for smaller items, offering quick access when needed. Plus, the hidden anti-theft pocket adds an extra layer of security, giving you peace of mind while you're on the go. If the weather turns wet, don't worry – the Easy Pack Zip is water-repellent. You'll know your stuff is safe whether you're heading to work, school, or an adventurous different location.

Key Features

• 17L capacity

• Can fit up to 13" laptop

• Water-repellent: DWR coating and PU backside

• Anti-theft hidden exterior pocket

TROUBADOUR APEX COMPACT BACKPACK

At only 16 liters, the Troubadour Apex Compact makes the perfect small backpack for men who are serious about keeping their carry organized. Inside you'll find a ton of interior pockets while the front and side pockets give you easy access to small items.

And there is no need for a rain cover, each Apex Compact is made with a waterproof durable fabric and is topped off with water-resistant zippers. With all of these features and more, this mini backpack has everything you need to conquer your day in style.

Key Features:

• 16L capacity

• Separate 16" laptop compartment

• Lots of pockets for small items

• High quality water-resistant construction

Timbuk2 Spirit Laptop Backpack

The Timbuk2 Spirit Laptop Backpack is an excellent choice for men seeking a small yet functional backpack for daily commute. With a roomy main compartment offering 16 liters of packing room, it's just enough space for daily essentials. The padded laptop pocket can hold a 13-inch laptop securely, while the smaller pockets on the outside provide convenient spots for easy access to important items.

Whether you're heading to work or spending a long day out, this ultralight pack won't slow you down. Each Timbuk2 Spirit Laptop Backpack is made with tough recycled nylon and only weighs just under 18 ounces.

Key Features:

• 16L capacity

• 13" laptop pocket

• Exterior pockets for small items

• Comfortable foam padded adjustable shoulder straps

HEX Evolve Logic Backpack

The HEX Evolve Logic is the perfect companion for anyone seeking a blend of simplicity and functionality in a small backpack. With a 14.5L capacity, this pack hits a sweet spot between daily usability and travel versatility. There is a spot for a 15-inch laptop, dedicated phone pocket, and thoughtful pockets for water bottles and small items.

Crafted from durable recycled ECO Cordura fabric, the HEX Evolve Logic ensures lasting use, and its upscale features like faux leather zipper pulls and plush faux fur linings in tech pockets add a touch of sophistication. Whether it's for work or travel, this lightweight backpack offers plenty of pockets and a convenient luggage handle passthrough, making it an excellent choice for men who value practicality and style.

Key Features:

• 14.5L capacity

• 15-inch laptop compartment

• Lots of pockets for small items

• Trolley sleeve for travel

Fjallraven Raven 20

Buy on Amazon

The Fjallraven Raven 20 is an excellent choice for guys looking for a small backpack that checks all the boxes for a great fit, strong build, and timeless style. With a 20-liter capacity, this backpack finds a perfect balance between being compact yet roomy enough for daily carry. The Raven 20 is even made from rugged water-resistant materials, making it the perfect pack to take on an afternoon hike.

Our favorite feature of this backpack is all of its useful exterior pockets. There are spots for water bottles, a top pocket that's great for keeping your sunglasses safe, and an organizer compartment filled with smaller pockets to help you keep things organized. Additionally, there's a front pocket that lets you quickly grab items you need on the go.

Key Features:

• 20L capacity

• 15-inch laptop sleeve

• Great organization for daily items

• Made of rugged water resistant G-1000® HeavyDuty fabric

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How We Chose These Backpacks

• High Quality Materials

  In curating our list of the best small men's backpacks, we took special care to feature bags made from durable fabrics and components from reputable brands that we trust. Whether you're navigating crowded streets, traveling to different locations, or simply carrying your daily necessities, a small men's backpack with high-quality materials is a top choice for those seeking both style and functionality in a compact package. Just because it's a smaller lightweight backpack, doesn't mean it has to compromise on durability. We focused on durable canvas and nylon over flimsy polyester and YKK zippers over cheap imitations. These are all details that should be considered when considering a new backpack.

  We also focused on bags with great water-resistant construction. With smaller bags, extra components like a rain cover will take up precious packing room. Instead we looked for bags with water-resistant coatings on the fabric, zipper guards to protect interior compartments or water-resistant zippers that can protect against rain and snow.

• Great Organization

  Just because a backpack is small doesn't mean it can't have great organization. We understand the importance of having designated spaces for both everyday essentials and travel items. This is why we focus on great small laptop backpacks and daily carry packs. Features we look out for are laptop sleeves, side pockets for water bottles and interior and exterior pockets for quick access to smaller items.

  Whether you're searching for a new backpack for work or leisure, our selection emphasizes excellent organization. These features provide peace of mind, knowing that your essentials are readily accessible and stored in a well-thought-out manner. These small men's backpacks are not only designed to complement your daily routines but also cater to your travel needs, making them a practical choice for those who value both style and functionality.

• Comfort Features

  The most important criteria for choosing a backpack is making sure that it's comfortable! We looked for backpacks with foam padded back panels and adjustable shoulder straps and gave special consideration to models who put in a little extra effort in the comfort department.

  You may notice that although some small bags may include a sternum strap, hip belts are usually missing. Hip belts are reserved for larger backpacks to help support heavy loads. In short, you don't need a hip belt for a bag this small (unless you plan on packing a 14L pack up with bricks).

  The same can be said for compression straps and other common exterior features. Most smaller bags are compact enough to not need compression straps for managing the bag size.

FAQs

• What is considered a "small backpack"?

  A small backpack is generally defined by its capacity and footprint. Any backpack with a volume under 20 liters is considered small. These backpacks are designed to be compact and lightweight, and forego a large main compartment in order to make them more compact. They're great for shorter trips, daily commutes, or situations where you want to travel light. Moreover, small backpacks often come in two distinct styles: mini backpacks and slim backpacks.

  Mini backpacks have a small footprint not only in terms of their capacity but also how they sit on your back. They typically smaller all-around and are designed to take up less space on the back when worn. These backpacks are excellent alternatives to sling packs and tote bags. On the other hand, slim backpacks maintain the footprint of a regular-sized backpack but offer a thinner profile. This style is perfect for guys who want to retain the classic backpack design but prefer a sleeker appearance. The slim design can be advantageous when navigating crowded spaces or for those who prefer a more streamlined aesthetic.

• Can men wear mini backpacks?

  Absolutely, men can absolutely wear mini backpacks! The idea that backpack styles are gender-specific is changing, and fashion today is all about personal expression. Mini backpacks are versatile accessories that work well for anyone, regardless of gender. They come in various designs, colors, and materials, making it easy for men to find a style that suits their preferences.

  Mini backpacks are practical and convenient for carrying daily essentials, such as keys, wallets, phones, and even small notebooks or tablets. In this buying guide we focused mostly on style and fit. Some mini backpacks can have narrow shoulder straps that might not be comfortable for some guys. So we focused on packs that will give enough support.

More Helpful Resources

• Backpack Size Guide - Visual Guide

• What fits in a 20L backpack? Visual guide

• Best Men's Backpack for Work

• Best Urban Backpacks - tested and reviewed

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21 Backpacks Similar to Fjallraven

Fjallraven is a brand based out of Sweden that has grown in popularity amongst outdoor enthusiasts and city-dwellers alike. I’m sure you’ve seen their Kanken backpack. It’s everywhere. 

This leads to an important question: Are there any good Fjallraven alternatives?

The answer is yes! There is a lot out there and even some of our favorite brands have a similar outdoorsy-style with an emphasis on daily functionality. This is why we have compiled this large list of backpacks and brands like Fjallraven that sport some of the same design, functionality and price (don’t worry we also peppered in some budget options).

This guide is divided into two parts

• Backpacks Like Kanken

• Brands Like Fjallraven

Video Review

Are there any good Kanken alternatives? We found 3 great options.

Backpacks Like Kanken

For anyone looking for a different or cheaper alternative to the popular Kanken backpack these picks might be up your alley. These backpacks are similar in size and style and we even included some cheaper options for anyone that is on a budget. This unique boxy backpack style is perfect for travel, school or work commutes.

Doughnut Macaroon

The Doughnut Macaroon is a crowd favorite thanks its fun design and endless color options. If you are looking for backpacks like the Fjallraven Kanken then you’ll love the Macaroon’s simple box profile and clamshell backpack style that allows full access to all of the contents inside the main compartment. What stands out about the Doughnut Macaroon is it’s interior organizer panel that gives you access to small items like pens, wallets and snacks without having to rummage through the main compartment. 

Check out our Doughnut Macaroon review to learn more!

Got Bag Daypack

We highly recommend taking a closer look at Got Bag Daypack if you are looking for a backpack like the Kanken from a unique brand that values great design and environmental responsibility. Each Got Bag Daypack backpack is made from recycled ocean plastic and the company has made it a mission to sustainably produce each product from top to bottom.

Got Bag offers the Daypack in tons of fun colors so you are sure to find the perfect match!

HotStyle BESTIE Mini Backpack

Buy on Amazon

HotStyle offers a cheaper Kanken alternative with their BESTIE Mini Travel backpack. What makes this aesthetic backpack special is its variety of pockets and fun color options. The front features an easy-access zip pocket and the inside is lined pockets for all of your essentials. If you are looking for backpacks like the Fjallraven Kanken but with a little more pocket storage then the HotStyle BESTIE Mini Backpack is a great choice. 

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack

Patagonia’s Atom Tote Pack is great for anyone looking for backpacks similar to the Fjallraven Kanken with a compact profile. The 20-liter main compartment gives you plenty of room for essentials while internal organizer pockets and water resistant material will give you peace of mind on busy days. The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack also comes in a bunch of different colors so you are sure to find one you love.

For a closer look at the details check out our Patagonia Atom Tote Pack review.

Anello Clasp Backpack

Anello is a brand based out of Japan that offers the perfect Fjallraven Kanken alternative.  Just like the Kanken, these unisex backpacks are available in a ton of colors and sizes. The bags themselves are top-loading with zipper access to a very large and roomy main compartment. These bags are a great option for anyone who needs a casual backpack to use at school, the gym or overnight travel.

Osprey Daylite Tote Pack

The Osprey Daylite Tote Pack is a versatile backpack that can be used for daily urban carry or during your next outdoor adventure thanks to its water resistant construction and laptop sleeve that can also be used as a hydration pocket during your next hike. Like the Fjallraven Kanken, the Osprey Daylite Tote Pack comes in a ton of different colors and can be carried like a tote or backpack depending on your preference.

Brands like Fjallraven

While we are all familiar with Fjallraven’s awesome bag designs - it doesn’t hurt to see what else is out there when shopping for a new backpack. There are a few brands like Fjallraven that offer outdoorsy designs and tough as nails construction. Below are a list of our favorite brands and some of our top picks.

Patagonia

We believe Patagonia is one of the best brands like Fjallraven in terms of backpack quality and outdoor-focused designs. Their wide range of outdoor and daily-use backpacks are out-rivaled by few and you can find just about any type of backpack to fit your needs. Patagonia is worth a closer look if you are looking for a hiking, travel or daily use backpack that is built to last. 

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack

The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is a 27 liter bag that can be carried as a backpack, hand bag or tote. It’s designed to be ready for use at the weekend farmer’s market or as a travel daypack thanks to its pack-away design. The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is a good alternative for those on the hunt for bags like the Fjallraven Totepack. We like its lightweight yet super strong fabric and zippered exterior pocket for quick access to essentials.

Patagonia Fieldsmith Lid Pack

Patagonia offers a modern take on a classic rucksack design with their Fieldsmith Lid Pack. This backpack features a water repellent finish for ease of mind during outdoor adventures and a large main compartment for easy storage of things like a laptop and daily essentials. At 28 liters the Patagonia Arbor Lid Pack is a good choice for anyone looking for heritage-style bags like the Fjallraven Greenland.

REI Co-op

REI Co-op is retailer known for quality outdoor gear and apparel offerings and the company has recently started offering their own branded items that match their focus on high quality and sustainability. Many of REI’s bags are made from eco-friendly and recycled materials and are built to specific standard for the task at hand: camping, hiking, travel and everyday carry. We recommend REI backpacks if you are looking for affordable brands like Fjallraven with a similar focus on sustainability and practicality.

REI Beyonder Pack

The REI Co-Op Beyonder Pack features everything you need to conquer the day. An interior padded laptop pocket allows you to carry your tech securely while a extra pockets give your organization for small items.

One thing we really appreciate about this backpack is its quality and minimalist design. Fans of Fjallraven’s classic designs will really appreciate the REI Beyonder’s minimalist exterior, intuitive pocket placement and eco-friendly construction.

REI Rucksack Recycled Daypack

The Rucksack Recycled Daypack is REI’s own take on a classic hiking bag but with more everyday carry features that also make it a perfect choice for school and commuting. Available in both a men’s version and women’s version, the Rucksack is built with comfort in mind for easy hauls on the trail and in the city.

The Rucksack Recycled Daypack’s rugged construction and minimalist exterior make it a great alternative for anyone looking for bags like Fjallraven that focus on a stylish design that doesn’t compromise on great quality.

Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi is a backpack brand that deserves to be on your radar if you are looking for high quality multifunctional backpacks. The brand’s business model is “Do Good” and that’s something we can definitely get behind. Cotopaxi gives a percentage of their profit to organizations that fight poverty around the world. Their backpacks are bright, fun and technical. Cotopaxi is a great option for anyone looking for brands like Fjallraven geared towards hiking and travel.

Cotopaxi Todo Convertible Tote

The Cotopaxi Todo Convertible Tote offers the best of both worlds: backpack and tote bag. Filled with useful pockets, you’ll get a padded sleeve for a 15" laptop and a fleece-lined pocket perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone. Those looking for a backpack similar is size to the Kanken but who don’t want to resort to Kanken dupes will love the original style and fun colors of the Todo Convertible Tote.

Cotopaxi Vaya Backpack

The Cotopaxi Vaya is a daypack for hikes and everyday carry. The 18-liter main compartment offers the room you need for daily essentials while a padded laptop sleeve gives you quick access to your tech. Pair these features with a highly water-resistant construction and a soft mesh back panel and you have a versatile pack for work and play.

Helly Hanson

Helly Hanson is a Norwegian brand that specializes in clothing and accessories for people who love staying active outdoors. Their backpacks can be best described as daily-use functionality with retro-inspired style by incorporating hard-wearing fabrics and leather trims. This a great brand to try out if you are looking for brands like Fjallraven with an emphasis on Scandinavian design.

Helly Hansen Vika Backpack

Inspired by minimalist Scandinavian design, the Vika Backpack will come in handy for daily carry and outdoor adventures alike thanks to its highly water resistant rolltop construction, roomy 28 liter main compartment, laptop sleeve and adjustable sternum strap so that you can dial line a perfect fit.

Helly Hansen Dublin Backpack

Made for short hikes and daily commuting alike, the Helly Hansen Dublin is a small daily carry backpack designed to thrive on even the busiest of days. Packed features such as water bottle pockets, external quick-access pockets and two separate main compartments - the Dublin is a great option for anyone looking for a backpack like the Fjallraven Kanken or Ulvo with a similar size and footprint.

Osprey Packs

Whether you are looking for technical hiking backpacks or everyday bags - Osprey Packs has you covered. The brand has made their mark in being a leader in travel and outdoor gear but they have also released some serious contenders in the laptop backpack space. Anyone looking for backpacks similar to Fjallraven’s more technical outdoor bags will like the options Osprey offers for hiking, backpacking, running and mountain biking.

Osprey Arcane Roll Top

The Arcane Roll Top is a versatile urban to trail backpack by Osprey that combines a city-focused carrying system with the brand’s classic focus on durability and comfort. This roll top backpack features a 16” laptop sleeve, a roomy 22 liter main compartment and a hidden low profile side water pocket that blends into the pack when not in use for a streamlined look.

Osprey Arcane Daypack

Don’t be fooled by the minimalist exterior - inside the Osprey Arcane is a myriad of pockets for organizing your daily items. Each Osprey Arcane is equipped with a padded laptop sleeve, plenty of pockets for essentials and is made with water resistant fabric for peace of mind during busy commutes.

Salkan

When it comes to finding companies like Fjallraven very few come close to the quality and designs that Fjallraven offers but Salkan does a stellar job on both fronts. Salkan is a brand that offers high quality backpacks built to last through any journey. In fact, each bag brings with it a lifetime guarantee!

Salkan The Daypack

The Daypack is a rugged 20L daypack perfect for lugging around your laptop, snacks and other essentials. The interior features a padded laptop sleeve and a zip organization pocket for smaller items while the outside provides a side zip pocket for keys and other quick access items.

Salkan The Mainpack

Salkan offers a thoughtfully designed trekking pack for those who like to wander off the beaten path. A good alternative to the Fjlaraven Abisko or Kaipak, the Mainpack’s carry versatility is made possible big 45L main compartment and compression straps that double as holders for oversized gear. Made with a wax-finished fabric for water resistance and equipped with aluminum hardware - the Mainpack is a step up from other travel and hiking packs in its class.

Topo Designs

Topo Designs is a great brand to check out for anyone looking for outdoor-inspired backpacks similar to Fjallraven with some really unique styles and colors. Most of their backpacks are simple yet hardwearing. Meaning, if you aren’t a fan of the bells and whistles of many modern packs and instead want to focus on quality construction and timeless style - then this brand is for you. Recently Topo has switched a lot of materials to recycled fabrics making them a great source for eco-friendly recycled backpacks.

Topo Designs is a great brand to check out for anyone looking for outdoor-inspired backpacks similar to Fjallraven with some really unique styles and colors.

Topo Daypack Tech

One of Topo Design’s most popular backpacks, the Daypack Tech is a workhorse that can be used for everything from daily commuting to short hikes. With a 21 liter capacity, super comfortable back panel and plenty of pockets, the Commuter is Daypack Tech is one of Topo’s most versatile backpack yet.

Topo Designs Rover Pack

The Topo Rover Pack offers a timeless style that is as versatile as you are. Plenty of compartments for small gear, a laptop sleeve and a 20 liter compartment makes it the perfect bag for anyone looking for a reliable backpack for daily carry. Also, the water bottle pockets on this bag are fantastic and can fit some pretty big bottles. The Rover is definitely one of our favorite backpacks with water bottle pockets.

Haglöfs

Haglöfs is a Finnish brand that offers eco-friendly gear and clothing for the outdoor adventurer. Those looking for outdoor backpacks like Fjallraven may miss the simplicity of their designs but we think Haglöfs does a great job at offering bags that have real functionality without being too over-engineered. Haglöf’s range of offerings is impressive with backpacks suited for the trail or your next downtown day trip.

Haglofs Nusnas Backpack

The Nusnas is a 25 liter rucksack that can be used on the trail or during your daily commute. This is thanks to its water resistant DWR coating and modern features like a laptop sleeve and key holder. The backpack features a sleek minimalist profile and is constructed of highly durable recycled fabric to really drive its modern Scandinavian design home.

Haglofs Siljan Backpack

Haglofs offers an attractive weather resistant daily pack with their Silja backpack. Made of durable recycled materials with chunky wear-resistant zippers, the Silja is constructed to thrive in any setting. This backpack is a good choice if you are looking for backpacks like the Fjallraven Kanken that are slim in design with a roomy main compartment. 

Helpful Resources

Want to stick with a Fjallraven backpack? Use our helpful guides below to pick your perfect pack!

• Fjallraven Kanken Classic vs Mini

• Fjallraven Kanken Classic vs Laptop (13” 15” 17”)

• Fjallraven Raven 20 vs Raven 28

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11 Best Waterproof Backpacks for College in 2023 (We Tested)

If you're looking for the best waterproof backpack for college, there are some important things to consider. You'll want a backpack that has a big space for notebooks, a padded sleeve for your laptop, and lots of pockets for your school and personal stuff. But it's not easy to find all these features in a fully waterproof backpack. Most waterproof backpacks are designed for specific sports like surfing and fishing with little consideration to everyday carry.

Luckily, we did some research and found a the best waterproof backpacks that are great for students. Most of these backpacks have been tested by us with students in mind.

Tested! Video Review

Water Resistant vs Waterproof

Before we talk about our top choices, let's get something straight. There's a difference between a waterproof backpack and a water-resistant backpack. And you should be honest about what type of backpack you really need on campus.

There are two levels of protection when it comes to keeping your stuff dry: fully waterproof and water resistant.

Waterproof: This means the backpack has a special coating on the outside fabric, sealed seams, and waterproof zippers or rolltops. It won't let any water in, even in heavy rain.

Water Resistant: This means the backpack also has a coating on the outside fabric, but the zippers and seams are not waterproof. If you get caught in a heavy downpour, water might seep through these areas. However, the coated fabric helps water slide off the outside, so your things stay dry in light rain or snow.

We tested the backpacks and rated their level of protection. We only included backpacks that are "water-resistant" or better in our list. Our ratings are based on hands-on testing and the overall design and features of the backpacks.

Now let’s move on to the backpacks.

Best Waterproof Backpacks for College

Able Carry Daily Plus

The Able Carry Daily Plus backpack is one of our favorite picks for students seeking a highly water-resistant backpack. Its waterproof X-Pac construction, combined with coated water-resistant zippers, ensures excellent protection against rain and snow. Not only is it functional, but it's also stylish in design with a really unique look that would look great on campus.

What the Able Carry Daily Plus does best is offer plenty of pockets and organization. This includes everything from quick access compartments to hidden pockets. With a dedicated 16" laptop sleeve and 11" tablet sleeve, both floating inside the backpack, your devices are well-protected.

The standout feature of this backpack is its super comfortable adjustable shoulder straps, which are generously padded. Able Carry always comes through with comfy shoulder straps and the Daily Plus is no exception.

Check out our Able Carry Daily Plus review for more details.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made of waterproof X-Pac

• Volume: 21 liters

• 16" laptop and 11" tablet sleeve

PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE BACKPACK

The Patagonia Black Hole backpack is really popular among college students for a good readon. It's a stylish backpack while also being a high quality enough to handle daily abuse. Plus, it has a lot of compartments to help you stay organized and keep your important school items within reach..

Each Patagonia Black Hole is water resistant and will do great in a light rain. But it's unique design is the real reason we needed to include this pack on this list. The zippers for the main compartment and top pocket are angled in a way that prevents water from falling directly on them when it's raining. This makes it leaps and bounds more water resistant than your avarage North Face or Jansport backpack - that have their zippers facing upward. When you combine this design with a water resistant material, you have a reliable backpack for college and beyond.

One last thing - if you are tired seeing a boring black backpack, you'll be pleased to know that Patagonia offers the Black Hole in a ton of different colors.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made water repellent materials

• Capacity: 32L or 25L

• 15” laptop compartment

Chrome Urban EX Rolltop Backpack

The Chrome Urban EX takes the protection of a drybag and blends it with features for everyday use. Simply put: this is the bag if you are looking for the best waterproof backpack for college and commuting.

The big main compartment can hold lots of college textbooks and notebooks. There is even a padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop. But Chome Urban Ex may not be for you if you need pockets for storing smaller items. The backpack is just one big bucket.

But the lack of pockets might be worth it because the Chrome Urban Ex is built like a tank. Seriously, it's one of the toughest waterproof bags we've tested. It's made of high-quality waterproof materials and has welded seems. This means dry stuff no matter how hard it rains and a bag that will stay in piece no matter how hard you abuse it.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Waterproof

• 100% waterproof rolltop design with welded seams

• Capacity: 30 liters

• 15” laptop sleeve

RAINS Rolltop Rucksack

Who says a stylish backpack can't be water-resistant? The Rains Rolltop Rucksack is the perfect water-resistant backpack for college students who want both style and functionality. The main compartment gives you enough room for campus essentials, while an exterior laptop compartment provides quick and easy access to your tech.

Each Rains Rolltop Rucksack is made with the brand’s signature waterproof PU materials. Couple it with this construction and a rolltop design, and you have great protection from rainy days on campus.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Highly water resistant

• Made waterproof PU fabric

• 13 liter capacity

• 16" side-access laptop compartment

STUBBLE & CO THE ROLL TOP

The Roll Top backpack by Stubble & Co is really good at keeping water out, and it looks cool too. This is thanks to its special roll-top design, strong seams, and water resistant zippers. A combination for a dry experience on campus.

We like the Roll Top as a college laptop backpack because it has a plenty of pockets for small items, a roomy main compartment for books, and side pockets for water bottles. The best feature is the side zipper for quick access to your laptop. One thing this bag does well is organizational pockets.

One of our favorite things about the Roll Top backpack is how comfortable it is to wear. It has a soft padded back panel, chest strap, and adjustable straps that are designed to fit you just right. Say hello to a backpack that can keep your things dry and is comfortable enough for long days on campus.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Waterproof rolltop design with sealed seams and YKK Aquaguard zippers

• Capacity: 20L

• 16-inch laptop compartment

THE RIDGE COMMUTER WEATHERPROOF BACKPACK

The Ridge offers a laptop backpack that's great for college and tech carry. At 20 liters, it has room for a few bulky binders and notebooks. But where it really shines is it's amazing organization. If you are a student who needs a backpack with lots of pockets for their tech accessories and school supplies, the Ridge Commuter might be the one. Inside you'll find an insane amount of organizational pockets for everyday essentials.

Along with having a waterproof nylon shell, the Commuter gives you YKK Aquaguard zippers to keep the main compartment and laptop compartment safe. The Ridge also gives you rain guards over the front pockets and side pocket to give extra protection to things like phones, wallets, or glasses, which can be easily damaged by water. It's little details like these that make the Commuter backpack such a great options for college students in need of waterproof protection.

For more details check out our Ridge Commuter Backpack Review.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Highly water resistant

• Made 600D waterproof nylon with YKK Aquaguard zippers

• Lots of pockets for organization

• 15” shock-resistant laptop compartment

TOPO DESIGNS ROVER TECH PACK

The Topo Designs Rover Pack Tech is for college students who need a lightweight backpack that's made to last. The main compartment is big enough to hold a few larger books and notebooks, and there are zippered pockets on the outside for smaller items. The external side zipper for your laptop gives you easy access to your tech.

When you look at the Topo Designs Rover Tech Pack, you can tell it was made to keep your important stuff dry. The backpack is made from tough nylon material and water-resistant zippers but the real trick is the top lid design. Instead of zippers, the main compartment is covered by a lid that acts as a barrier from safe from rain or snow.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made of water-resistant materials

• Internal and external 15” laptop sleeves

• Capacity: 24.3 liters

Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack

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The Timbuk2 Parker Commuter is an interesting backpack. It's expandable from 26L to 35L. Has great organization. And it built from the ground up to stay dry in anything from a light rain to a downpour.

The front of the backpack is made with highly water-resistant material for peace of mind in a light rain. But when things get serious during a downpour, the bag includes a rainfly that you can pop over the bag for full waterproof protection.

Other great features include reflective panels for safety when commuting at night. And lots of great pockets for quick access. Not only does Timbuk2 give you easy access pockets in the front for essentials but the side pockets are great for stashing water bottles or umbrellas. The Timbuk2 Parker Commuter is easily one of our favorite expandable backpacks for commuters, but it's quickly becoming one of our favorite college backpacks thanks to its great student-friendly features.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made of water-resistant materials (waterproof with rainfly)

• Expandable main compartment (26-35L)

• 15-inch laptop sleeve

Breakwater Supply Fogland 25L

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We have to be honest and admit that the Breakwater Supply Fogland backpack might be a bit overkill for most college students. It's completely submersible and has drysuit-grade airtight zippers. So why use it as a daily school backpack?

Well, the main compartment is the perfect size for school essentials like big binders, notebooks and books. It even includes a 16-inch laptop sleeve and extra pockets for organization. And adjustable shoulder straps and a chest strap makes it easy to haul heavy loads.

Unlike many of the backpacks on this list, the Breakwater Supply Fogland is a drybag and 100% waterproof. But it's versatility lies in the design: it has usable pockets for everyday use like side pockets for water bottles. For dry bag standards, the Fogland actually functions more like a daily backpack. It was designed to keep you gear safe and dry no matter the conditions.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Waterproof

• Made of water-resistant materials

• 16-inch laptop pocket

• Capacity: 25 liters

Black Ember Citadel R2

The Black Ember Citadel R2 is a waterproof backpack that's great for college. It's made with special waterproof materials, strong zippers, and sealed seams. This means it can keep your things dry even in heavy rain. It has a capacity of 25 liters, so it's big enough for a few books, binders, and a 15-inch laptop. We don't recommend this backpack if you are the type of student who needs to carry lots of books and binders. But for the tech-centric student it is perfect.

What's great about the Citadel R2 is that it was specifically designed for urban use. It's not like other waterproof backpacks that are mostly made for sports. It has all the features you'd expect from a modern tech bag. Inside, there are pockets and organizers to easily access your laptop, tablet, keys, and wallet. But here's the best part - the Citadel R2 is modular backpack. That means you can add extra pockets and straps if you need them.

For a closer look and a waterproof test make sure to check out our full Black Ember Citadel R2 review.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Waterproof

• Clamshell zipper design for full access to inside

• Modular system allows you to customize

• 15” padded laptop sleeve and padded tablet sleeve

The Ridge Classic Backpack Weatherproof

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The Ridge Classic Backpack is a great choice for college students who need a highly water-resistant backpack that isn't built like you are going on a kayaking adventure. It's lightweight construction and classic bookbag look makes it the perfect campus backpack. Yet it handles rain showers like champ thanks to its special outer shell made of waterproof nylon and YKK Aquaguard zippers.

For most people who are worried about getting caught in the rain on their way to clas, this backpack does a great job of keeping your important stuff dry. It's perfect for college and everyday use. We especially like the padded sleeve for your laptop, the built-in USB port for charging your phone. Plus, the sensible size of 22 liters keeps the backpack from feeling too bulky while being big enough for books and notebooks.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made 600D waterproof nylon with YKK Aquaguard zippers

• 22 liter capacity

• 14" padded laptop sleeve

• Built-in USB port for charging tech

How to Choose a Waterproof College Backpack

When choosing a waterproof college backpack, it's important to consider how you'll access the main compartment. This is where you'll keep your important items like textbooks, notes, and laptops, so you want to make sure they stay dry.

When it comes to waterproof backpacks there are three main types of main compartment entries you’ll encounter:

ZIPPER ACCESS

One type of access is through a zipper. Most school backpacks have a single zipper to open the main compartment. However, most zippers are not wateprroof, so you need to look for a backpack that has water-resistant waterproof zippers. Waterproof zippers are coated to keep water out, like ones made by YKK AquaGuard and Aquaseal.

LID ACCESS

Another type of access is through a lid. Backpacks with lids have a flap that folds over the main compartment, providing extra protection against the elements. This creates a barrier between the top of the backpack, where rain and snow can land, and the main compartment.

Usually, there is a zipper or drawstring underneath the lid to fully close and secure the main compartment. Lids are common in outdoor and technical backpacks, but you can also find them in school and everyday backpacks.

ROLLTOP ACCESS

A third type of access is through a rolltop. Rolltop backpacks have extra fabric at the top that you can roll down to close the main compartment. This type of access is very popular for waterproof backpacks because it offers great water resistance. When you compress the rolltop, it creates a seal and blocks water from getting inside. Rolltop backpacks are often seen in outdoor activities like biking, hiking, surfing, and snow sports. It's important to choose a rolltop backpack made of either waterproof or water-resistant material to prevent water from penetrating when it's wet. We have a helpful buying guide of roll top waterproof backpacks if you are interested in this backpack type.

To help figure out which type of backpack is best for you, check out our Zipper vs Roll Top Backpack guide.

Waterproof Materials

When choosing a waterproof backpack for college, it's important to consider the type of material used to make the backpack. The material should either be water resistant or coated to be waterproof.

Water resistant fabrics are woven tightly to stop water from soaking in. Some examples of water resistant fabrics are high denier nylon, polyester, and canvas. Nylon types like Cordura and Ballistic nylon are naturally water resistant and are good choices for a water resistant backpack for college. Other fabrics like X-Pac and sailcloth are also naturally water resistant.

But when it comes to making a backpack completely waterproof, you usually need more than just the fabric. That's why most waterproof backpacks have a coating to keep water out. Here are three common types of backpack coatings:

1. TPU Coating: TPU is a type of plastic coating that provides good resistance to wear and tear. Backpack manufacturers like using TPU because it's less likely to crack compared to other coatings, while still remaining flexible.

2. DWR Coating: DWR stands for "durable water resistant." It's a popular coating for rain jackets and outdoor clothing. It's breathable and strong, which makes it a good choice for waterproofing backpacks. DWR coats individual fibers, allowing water to roll off the fabric before it can seep in.

3. PU Coating: PU is often used as imitation leather in bags and small goods. In fabrics, PU provides durability and resistance to wear, along with good waterproofing. It's breathable and lightweight. Many backpack manufacturers prefer PU coating because it's cheaper than TPU and other waterproofing methods.

Other Features to Look For

What size backpack do you need?

The first thing you should decide when looking for a backpack for college is its size. Larger backpacks (23L+) usually have roomier main compartments and extra pockets for smaller items. If you plan on carrying lots of text books, binders and notebooks around campus then a larger backpack may be the correct choice.

But not everyone need a huge main compartment for school. College students who use their laptops for note-taking may do well with a smaller and lighter backpack with a secure laptop compartment.

If you need help figuring out which size backpack to get, check out our Backpack Size Guide.

THINK ABOUT ORGANIZATION

When looking for a waterproof backpack for college, don't forget about organization. Most waterproof backpacks are designed for specific activities like biking, surfing, and fishing. Because of this, they may not have all the pockets and organization features you need for school.

Avoid choosing bucket-style dry bags and instead opt for a backpack with more pockets. This way, you'll have space for everyday items like pens, a cell phone, and a laptop. Waterproof dry bags are good for the beach, but they lack the necessary features for a busy day on campus.

WATERPROOF OR WATER RESISTANT?

It's important to know that you'll have more backpack options if you choose a water-resistant backpack instead of a fully waterproof one. Water-resistant backpacks are usually good enough for most college students. They can protect you from sudden showers and short rainy commutes. Unless you live in a place with heavy rain or snow, a water-resistant backpack should be sufficient for college.

Waterproof backpacks for college are available, but there are fewer options and they tend to be more expensive than water-resistant ones. So think about how much protection you really need before deciding which one to get.

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Best 17x13x8 Bags in 2023 - JetBlue Personal Item Backpacks

If you have booked your next flight with JetBlue Airways, then it is possible that you are starting to sound the alarm about not finding a bag small enough to be considered a personal item in time for your next trip.

The golden rule is that your personal item must fit underneath the airplane seat in front of you. Easy, right?

Well, JetBlue is very clear about the size of their personal item bags, with strict maximum dimensions of 17" L (43.2 cm) x 13" W (33 cm) x 8" H (20.32 cm) and the space under an airplane seat can vary from jet to jet - and sometimes even from seat to seat on some planes. So sticking with the JetBlue required dimensions will be your best bet.

In this buying guide, we hope to make picking out your next personal item bag as easy as possible. We focus mostly on the best 17x13x8 backpacks, but we have also found a few great convertible tote bags and under-seat travel duffels that get the job done just as well.

Jetblue personal item examples from left to right: Timbuk2 Division, King Kong EDGE23, Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack

Our Top Pick JetBlue Personal Item Bags

1. Timbuk2 Division - Best JetBlue laptop backpack for underseat

2. King Kong EDGE23 - Best for one-bag packing (for Blue Basic fare with no carry-on)

3. Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack - Most stylish. Converts from backpack to tote bag.

JetBlue Personal Item: What You Need to Know

The JetBlue personal item guidelines are clear: if a bag is any larger than the 17x13x8 bag size limit then it is considered a carry-on bag and must be placed in the overhead bin.

The stakes are even higher for Blue Basic passengers who are only allowed have one personal item included in their fare. This means the Blue Basic ticket-holders run the risk of additional charges or a checked bag at the gate if their bag goes over the JetBlue personal item size limit.

Pictured above: Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L

What Counts as a Personal Item on JetBlue?

You can bring any bag as long as it fits JetBlue underseat bag size of 17” x 13” x 8” (or 43.2cm x 33cm x 20.32cm). This includes backpacks, tote bags, duffel bags and purses.

How Much Can You Fit In A JetBlue Personal Item?

You can expect a 17x13x8 backpack to be between 15 liters and 25 liters in capacity. For JetBlue Blue Basic ticket holders who want to pack with just a personal item, you can expect to fit 2-4 days worth of clothing depending on how you pack.

If you want to see what different sized backpacks can hold, we recommend you check out our Ultimate Backpack Size Guide with real examples.

Luggage with Wheels

Will small under-seat luggage fit underneath the seat in front of you? Maybe. But we found that 99% of carry-on bags with wheels will go over the JetBlue personal item size limit.

The problem with wheeled underseat luggage is that the spinner wheels and handles are counted toward the overall baggage dimensions, which wastes significant packing space. We also found that they are often too wide to be considered a JetBlue personal item and may not always fit under the airplane seat.

Best Backpacks 17 x 13 x 8 inches or Under

King Kong EDGE23 Backpack

Finding a high quality 17x13x8 travel bag is tough but King Kong has really saved the day here! The EDGE23 is the travel bag we recommend to passengers with a Blue Basic fare which only includes a personal item with the ticket price. Despite its compact size, the King Kong EDGE23 gives you the features you normally only find in larger carry-on backpacks.

The EDGE23 backpack opens like a suitcase and includes straps and compartments inside for organized packing. There is even a sealed compartment for shoes or dirty laundry to keep your funky items away from your clean clothing.

Other great features include a trolley sleeve for attaching the EDGE23 to rolling luggage and plenty of exterior pockets for easy access to essentials like water bottles, headphones and a laptop. The beefy compression straps are also a life saver for keeping the bag under the personal item size limit if you tend to over pack.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16 x 11 x 7.9 inches

• Capacity: 23L

• Weight: 3.3 lbs

• 15” laptop compartment

• Tough construction backed by a lifetime guarantee

tomtoc Voyage-T50 Laptop Backpack

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The tomtoc Voyage-T50 and airline travel are a match made in heaven! This bag's dimensions fit comfortably underneath the airplane seat, allowing you to keep your belongings close at hand throughout the flight. And with travel features like a trolley sleeve for attaching to luggage and easy-access pockets, the Voyage-T50 makes the perfect travel companion.

We really love the wide-open main compartment that gives you enough room for 1-2 days packing. In fact, light packers might be able to squeeze in another day or two. The square design maximizes packing space while keeping the dimensions intact, allowing you to use the Voyage-T50 for one-bag travel on short trips. In addition to the roomy main compartment, a rear tech compartment provides a spot to quickly access a laptop, tablet, and chargers during flights.

While many other backpacks include thinner shoulder straps, the tomtoc Voyage-T50 is equipped with wider shoulder straps that are usually found on larger backpacks. This makes the Voyage-T50 a great choice for those with wider shoulders who often find the fit of compact backpacks to be too small.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 17 x 12 x 5 inches

• Capacity: 20L

• Laptop compartment fits 16” laptop + 12.9” iPad Pro

• Durable 420D Nylon construction with YKK zippers

Timbuk2 Division Laptop Backpack

"Small but mighty" best describes the Timbuk2 Division laptop backpack. In addition to a roomy 22-liter main compartment, the Division provides plenty of storage for multiple tech devices and small items, giving you all the ingredients you need for a comfortable and stress-free trip.

Our favorite travel features include an exterior 15-inch laptop compartment, a sleeve for attaching the bag to rolling luggage, a water bottle pocket, and perfectly padded shoulder straps and back panel for long travel days. The adjustable straps on the side of the Division allow you to compress the bag as needed to ensure it always stays compliant.

The Timbuk2 Division works great as for Basic Blue passengers who need personal item bag for short trips as well for as all other passengers who just want a reliable underseat bag to compliment carry-on baggage in the overhead compartment.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 17.3 x 10.6 x 5.12 inches

• Capacity: 22L

• Weight: 2.2 lbs

• 15" laptop compartment + second padded sleeve inside main compartment

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L

The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack has to be one of our favorite JetBlue underseat bags, and it's easy to see why once you delve into all of its features.

This small backpack gives you 20 liters of packing room, but it's a large 20 liters. We found that we could easily pack for a weekend trip. The dimensions are also perfect and measure well below JetBlue's 17 x 13 x 8 bag size limit, so there are zero worries at the gate when boarding your flight.

A special feature of the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack is its removable laptop sleeve. This padded sleeve includes a mesh pocket so that you can easily grab everything you need to enjoy Netflix on your flight without having to rummage through multiple pockets. It neatly keeps your laptop or tablet, chargers, and earbuds all in one spot.

For a closer look, check out our Patagonia Atom Tote Pack review.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 5 inches

• Capacity: 20L

• Weight: 1lb 7oz

• 13” removable padded laptop sleeve

• Super comfortable padded shoulder straps

Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack

The Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack is one of the nicest backpacks on the list, and one that we have personally used as an underseat bag on multiple trips. One of the best features of the Bivy Tote is the ability to switch between a backpack and a tote bag by tucking away the shoulder straps. This also allows for a neater experience when stowing the bag under the airline seat, which is a huge plus.

Along with a very spacious 21-liter main compartment, the Bivy Tote offers many pockets for organizing your travel essentials. Inside, you'll find a 17" laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets for smaller items, while the outside of the bag provides you with a hidden pocket for a passport or wallet, a large front pocket, and discreet water bottle pockets that blend in with the bag when not in use for a cleaner look.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 7 inches

• Capacity: 21L

• Weight: 2.2 lbs

• Convertible backpack to tote bag design

• Highly water resistant construction

Got Bag Daypack

The Got Bag Daypack makes a great JetBlue personal item backpack for essential items, thanks to its compact size and useful features. With an 11 liter capacity, you’ll have enough room for a laptop or tablet, some reading material, headphones, snacks, and a sweater.

With that being said, the Got Bag Daypack is on the small side, and we definitely recommend it for travelers who only need a personal item to complement their checked luggage or carry-on item in the overhead bin. Those with a JetBlue Blue Basic ticket who need room for packing might want to skip this one.

Got Bag is a relatively new brand with a mission to clean up our environment from plastic waste. Their bags are made of Ocean Impact Plastic, which comes from plastic waste that would otherwise have ended up in the ocean. It’s a great ethos that we can stand behind.

For a closer look check out our Got Bag Daypack review.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 5 inches

• Capacity: 11L

• Weight: 1.19 lbs

• 13” padded laptop sleeve

• Water resistant construction

Harber London Office Backpack

This one is for business travelers or those who want something more sophisticated than your typical polyester laptop bag. Harber London handcrafts each of their backpacks in Spain using premium materials like rich full-grain leather and aviation grade aluminum. And you’ll really notice a difference one you get your hands on one - the bags are stunning in person and wear like a dream.

The Harber London Office backpack not only fits under the maximum personal item dimensions of most major airlines, but it also provides some great features for a comfortable trip. It includes a padded laptop sleeve and a second padded sleeve for a tablet, along with plenty of pockets for items like passports and earbuds. It also has a trolley sleeve to attach the backpack to rolling luggage. You really can’t go wrong with this backpack.

For a closer look check out our Harber London Office Backpack review.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.9 x 11.6 x 5.5 inches

• Capacity: 18L

• 16” laptop sleeve + 13” tablet sleeve

• Lots of pockets for organizing travel items

Topo Designs Rover Pack

The Topo Designs Rover Pack is a backpack for those who need trusted reliability. It has enough pockets for organization, but not too many where items can get lost in the chaos. Plus, its recycled nylon construction means it's lightweight, yet still high-quality enough to endure some serious traveling.

One of our favorite features of the Topo Designs Rover Pack is its large and stretchy side pockets that can fit larger 32oz water bottles, making it one of our favorite backpacks with water bottle pockets for this reason. Sure, this may seem like a strange reason to love a bag, but the side pockets really are a pleasure to use.

As an underseat bag, the Rover Pack shines, thanks to its top lid design and side compression strap system that enables you to manage the depth and height to ensure you always stay within JetBlue's required 17x13x8 bag dimensions.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 4.5 inches

• Capacity: 20L

• 15" laptop sleeve

• Lightweight yet rugged construction that's perfect for travel

Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17”

The Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17" is the largest backpack in the Kanken family, providing 20 liters of packing space inside (compared to the original Kanken Classic's 16L). This means you have more room for packing while still being small enough to fit underneath the airline seat.

The Kanken's large main compartment makes it an excellent option for Blue Basic passengers who want to avoid carry-on luggage fees, but it's also a great companion for those with a full-size carry-on bag who only need a way to keep their essentials within reach during a flight. The Kanken Laptop 17" includes a padded laptop sleeve, two zippered pockets for smaller items, and side pockets for easy access to stuff like a water bottle or airline tickets.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.53 x 11.81 x 7.08 inches

• Weight: 1.1 lbs

• Capacity: 20L

• 17" laptop sleeve

Pacsafe Eco 18L Anti-Theft Backpack

The Pacsafe Eco 18L is a very interesting backpack that is small enough to fit under United airline seats, but packed with surprising features.

First, the Pacsafe Eco 18L makes a great anti-theft travel backpack. It has built-in locks for each outside compartment and the backpack itself can be secured to a tablet or chair leg to prevent theft in busy airports or cafes. Inside, you'll also find an RFID-safe pocket for stuff like a passport and credit cards.

If that wasn't impressive enough, the Pacsafe Eco 18L can also double as an outdoor backpack for hiking or biking. It has a lightweight construction, a roomy main compartment, and great exterior pockets, as well as super breathable shoulder straps and a back panel. Not only does the Pacsafe Eco 18L make a great travel backpack, but you can take it on a hike when you get to your destination!

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.9 x 10.6 x 7.5 inches

• Capacity: 18L

• Weight: 1.61 lb

• Built-in zipper locks and anti-theft design

JetBlue Personal Item Duffels

EcoHub 18x13x8 Duffel Bag

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This Ecohub duffel is cheap, lightweight and designed to fit under the 18x13x8 personal item bag size limit. What more can you ask for?

Ecoub designs underseat luggage and bags made to fit specific airlines. Their Jetblue bag gives you just enough room for some packing plus extras like inside and outside pockets for orgnaization. It's compact size is also great for international travel in Europe where the personal item bag restrictions are even smaller.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.1 x 11 x 8 inches

• Capacity: 20L

• Made for under seat storage on airplanes

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Duffel

This travel duffel is for anyone who wants to show up to the airport in style. The Dange Dover Landon Carryall offers a sleek design that's available in a ton of great colors and has some great travel features to boot. Each Landon bag allows you to carry it like a tote bag or crossbody duffel thanks to included shoulder strap. You also get a trolley sleeve for attaching the Landon to your carry-on luggage.

The Dange Dover Landon Carryall is available in a few different sizes. For JetBlue flights, we recommend sticking with the Medium size to stay under the 17" x 13" x 8" bag requirements for personal items. But, if you really wanted to test the limits you can upgrade to the Large size that only goes over the size limit by an inch or so.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 14.5 x 9 x 7.5 inches (medium size)

• Capacity: 18L

• Weight 1.7 lbs

• Available in lots of colors

Wrap Up

JetBlue has a smaller personal item size limit than a lot of other US domestic budget airlines, making for a hyper-specific hunt for the right bag. Whether you are flying Blue Basic or Mint, the personal item bags on this list will make sure you stay compliant.

Below are some helpful links with additional information to help you get ready for your next flight with JetBlue Airlines. It's worth noting that the policies for carry-on baggage allowance and baggage charges can change so it's always best to check for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

Helpful Travel Resources:

• JetBlue - Fares and Guidelines

• Nerdwallet - Guide to Blue Basic on JetBlue Airlines

• CheapAir - JetBlue: Every Ticket Type Explained

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Best 9x10x17 Bags - United Airlines Personal Item Backpacks

With the rise of the United Airlines basic economy fare, more and more people are looking for a personal item bag that can squeeze into the size limit of 9 x 10 x 17 inches.

Let's face it, most backpacks and luggage are simply too large to be considered personal items. This can cause serious headaches for travelers struggling to stay under the strict dimensions.

But we're here to help.

In this buying guide we have picked the best personal item bags based on quality, features and size so that you can spend less time with a measuring tape and more time planning that sweet vacation.

From left to right: Pacsafe Eco 18L Anti-Theft, Timbuk2 Division, Fjallraven Kanken backpack

Our Top Pick United Airlines Personal Item Bags

1. Timbuk2 Division - Best United Airlines laptop backpack for underseat

2. Fjallraven Kanken 16L - Best for one bag packing (Basic Economy tickets)

3. Pacsafe Eco 18L Anti-Theft Backpack - Best Anti-Theft Backpack with lockable zippers

If you aren’t a fan of orange, don’t worry, these bags come in different colors than the ones in the photo.

What You Need to Know About United Personal Items

If you are getting ready for a trip, it's good to know that United Airlines has strict size limits for what counts as a personal item.

Show above: Travelpro Elite Compact Carry-On Spinner and Osprey Daylite backpack

According to the United Airlines official guidelines, any bag can be considered a personal item as long as it fits under the seat in front of you and measures under 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm). United Airline personal item examples include a purse, backpack, suitcase, duffel bag or briefcase.

While carry-on bags have a limit of 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm) and needs to stored in the overhead bin on the plane. Carry-on examples include roller luggage and larger carry-on backpacks.

Those traveling with Basic Economy tickets will be allowed to bring one personal item bag with them onboard and will be charged fees for each additional bag.

Best Backpacks 9 x 10 x 17 inches or Under

Timbuk2 Division

Our top pick for a United personal item bag has to be the Timbuk2 Division. It's small enough to fit underneath an airline seat but not too small. While it may not be suitable for a long haul trip, its 22 liters of packing space makes it roomy enough for a light packer. And if organization is a must, the Division has lots of pockets for quick access to small items.

For those traveling with multiple tech devices, the Timbuk2 Division shines as a tech bag with its 15-inch laptop compartment and additional main compartment sleeve that can double as a second table or laptop sleeve. Various small pockets throughout the bag offer ample storage for tech essentials.

The Division backpack also boasts great features to make your next flight a little more worry-free. It has a super comfortable back panel and shoulder straps, a water bottle pocket, and a sleeve for attaching the bag to rolling luggage. Compression straps make it easy to cinch down the bag to ensure you stay within the personal item size limit. Overall, the Timbuk2 Division backpack is a versatile and practical choice for travelers.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 17.3 x 10.6 x 5.12 inches

• Capacity: 22L

• Weight: 2.2 lbs

• 15" padded laptop compartment

Fjallraven Kanken 16L

The Fjallraven Kanken is possibly the most popular small backpack on the planet, and for good reason. But don't let its size fool you. Although it only has 16 liters of packing space, its roomy main compartment is perfect for packing when you're traveling and can easily fit multiple outfits for short trips. Seriously, if you can master your t-shirt rolling technique, you'll be surprised by how much you can fit.

One of the benefits of the Kanken backpack is that it retains its shape and dimensions even when packed to capacity, with minimal bulging or ballooning. This ensures that you don't accidentally add a few extra inches while packing, making it a great personal item backpack for United Airlines and a reliable bag for international flights that have strict personal item requirements.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 14.96 x 10.6 x 5..11 inches

• Capacity: 16L

• Weight: .66 lb

• Available in a ton of fun colors

Doughnut Macaroon

The Dounghnut Macaroon is a great option for those who like the look of the Fjallraven Kanken but need more pockets and organization. Both bags are 16 liters and have the same dimensions, but the Macaroon has more interior pockets, perfect for stashing travel essentials like tech chargers and a water bottle. Its compact size and ability to be carried as a tote or small backpack makes it ideal for airline travel.

We recommend getting the Fjallraven Kanken if you only want to carry one personal item bag for packing on Basic Economy flights, as the Macaroon has less open interior room due to the extra pockets. However, the Macaroon does make a great secondary backpack for your checked luggage or for when you have a carry-on in the overhead compartment.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 14.96 x 10.6 x 5..11 inches

• Capacity: 16L

• Lots of interior pockets

• Available in a ton of fun colors

Pacsafe Eco 18L Anti-Theft Backpack

The Pacsafe Eco 18L is a very interesting backpack that is small enough to fit under United airline seats, but packed with surprising features.

First, the Pacsafe Eco 18L makes a great anti-theft travel backpack. It has built-in locks for each outside compartment and the backpack itself can be secured to a tablet or chair leg to prevent theft in busy airports or cafes. Inside, you'll also find an RFID-safe pocket for stuff like a passport and credit cards.

If that wasn't impressive enough, the Pacsafe Eco 18L can also double as an outdoor backpack for hiking or biking. It has a lightweight construction, a roomy main compartment, and great exterior pockets, as well as super breathable shoulder straps and a back panel. Not only does the Pacsafe Eco 18L make a great travel backpack, but you can take it on a hike when you get to your destination!

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.9 x 10.6 x 7.5 inches

• Capacity: 18L

• Weight: 1.61 lb

• Built-in zipper locks and anti-theft design

Osprey Daylite

If all you want is a very lightweight and hassle-free bag for your next flight, the Osprey Daylite is the one to get. Despite its 13-liter packing capacity, it provides ample space for all your essentials like a tablet, headphones, and neck pillow. Plus, the compact size of the Osprey Daylite makes it a great personal bag for flights or a full day of sightseeing at your destination.

The Osprey Daylite is packed with all sorts of great features that makes it an excellent travel bag. Our favorite is the shoulder strap handle that doubles as a luggage pass-thru. Our favorite is the shoulder strap handle that doubles as a luggage pass-thru. It also comes with side compression straps to help you stay within the United personal item maximum dimensions, and a convenient front compartment for organizing small items. All in all, we couldn't recommend the Osprey Daylite enough.

If you want to learn more about the difference between the Daylite and the larger Daylite Plus, check out our in-depth Osprey Daylite vs Daylite Plus comparison.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.93 x 10.24 x 7.87 inches

• Capacity: 18L

• Weight: 1.08 lb

• Can fit up to 13" laptop or tablet

Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 15

Made with durable fabrics and water resistant zippers, the Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck can take you from the airport to sightseeing without skipping a beat. Mystery Ranch is a brand that specializes in tough tactical backpacks made with quick access in mind, and the Rip Ruck15 is no exception.

What sets the Rip Ruck 15 apart is its magnetic rip-zip opening to the main compartment, which provides easy access to your travel gear in seconds. Other great features include a 15” laptop sleeve, plenty of smaller pockets and PALS webbing on the top for attaching extra accessories. Best of all, the Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 15 is as close as you can get to the 9 x 10 x 17 personal bag requirements, making airline travel a breeze no matter where your adventures take you.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.93 x 10.24 x 7.87 inches

• Capacity: 18L

• Weight: 1.08 lb

• Can fit up to 13" laptop or tablet

Topo Designs Light Pack

The Topo Designs Light Pack offers a compact and no-fuss design for those struggling to find the right 9 in. x 10 in. x 17 in. bag for United Airlines. This is because the Light Pack keeps it simple with a 15-liter main compartment, side pockets for water bottles, and a front pocket for easy access to small items. Simple is as simple does. No tiny pockets all over the place and annoying extra straps and buckles.

One of the coolest features of the Topo Light Pack is its PackFast Travel Bag Attachment Loops that enable you to attach the bag to a larger Topo carry-on bag. This feature comes in handy on busy travel days. When it's time to board a flight, you can detach the Light Pack and stow it under the seat for easy access to your personal items.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 17.5 x 10 x 5.5 inches

• Capacity: 15L

• Lightweight yet tough - 400D Nylon Pack Cloth

Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti-Theft Backpack

The Pacsafe Metrosafe X comes in two sizes: the 16" laptop size and the 13" laptop size. You will want the smaller 13" laptop size Metrosafe X to stay under the United personal item maximum dimensions.

This is a backpack that we recommend for those who need their essentials at hand for a comofortable flight since it's simply too small for travel packing. However, as a personal item backpack to complement the luggage in the overhead compartment, it is perfect.

Not only do you get built-in lockable zippers for anti-theft protection, but the organization is a dream with a padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet, an RFID-blocking pocket for a passport, and even a shoulder strap pocket for quick access to earbuds or credit cards.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 17.5” x 10” x 5.5

• Capacity: 15L

• Lightweight yet tough - 400D Nylon Pack Cloth

Nixon Mode Pack

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Nixon offers a small backpack that's perfect for domestic United flights and international flights alike, thanks to it's compact size and lightweight construction.

This backpack has panel loading access to the main compartment with buckles instead of zippers, making it a bit easier to pack a little extra. This will come in handy if you aren't the type of person who can be considered a "light packer" but still wants a shot at one-bag travel on a Basic Economy flight to avoid baggage fees.

Inside, you'll find a padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet with an extra pocket for accessories, giving you plenty of open space for clothing and toiletries.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16 x 10.4 x 5.51 inches

• Capacity: 20L

• Adjustable buckle opening to adjust bag height

Alternatives to Luggage with Wheels

While many people prefer the convenience of a wheeled carry-on over a backpack, it's surprising how many luggage manufacturers don't make luggage with wheels that fits under the 9 x 10 x 17 in. dimensions required by United Airlines. There are a lot of great underseaters with wheels out there, but they are often too big for the United personal item size limit, which can be a problem with the rise in popularity of Basic Economy seats that often come with enforced restrictions.

However, we were able to find a couple of high-quality tote bags that meet United Airlines' maximum dimensions for personal bags.

Travelpro x Travel + Leisure UnderSeat Tote

With premium styling and an emphasis on travel comfort, the Travepro and Travel + Leisure got together to make the ultimate travel tote bag that is guarenteed to fit underneath an airplane seat. No need to worry about size restrictions or a checked carry-on bag at the gate - just pack and go!

Some great features include an interior padded laptop sleeve, quick-access pocket on the outside for phones, passports and other essentials and a high quality construction that will last for years to come.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.5 x 9.25 x 9 inches

• Capacity: 22L

• Weight 2.3 lb

• 15" laptop sleeve

• Made especially for underseat airline travel

Dagne Dover Landon CarryAll BaG (Medium)

Dagne Dover offers a compact duffel bag for travel, measuring under the 9 x 10 x 17 inches personal item size limit, for a worry-free experience at the gate.

The Landon Carryall Bag offers 18 liters of packing room and inside you’ll find a 13-inch padded laptop sleeve and extra mesh pockets for organization. Traveling with shoes? Dagne Dover includes a complimentary matching shoe bag to keep for easy packing.

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 14.5 x 9 x 7.5 inches

• Capacity: 18L

• Weight 1.7 lb

• Available in lots of colors

A Word on Exact Dimensions

Finding a travel backpack that's under the United 9" x 10" x 17" is tough. You might have noticed that some of the bags we recommended will exceed in width or depth within a half an inch or so from the specific sizing guidelines. That's ok. As long as you don't overstuff these bags you should have no problem fitting them underneath the airline seat in front of you.

Helpful Resources:

We always recommend checking the latest information from United Airlines before your next trip. Below are some helpful links.

• United Airlines: Basic Economy Guidelines

• Nerdwallet: United Basic Economy vs. Economy vs. Economy Plus

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14 Backpack Strap Pocket and Pouch Options - Built-In and Modular

So, you want a backpack with pockets on the straps? The bad news is that this convenient little feature isn’t as common as we would like. The good news is that you still have some options!

In this buying guide, we have researched what is available and have included some of our favorite backpack designs that feature pockets in the shoulder straps, as well as some modular backpack strap pouch options. Whether you need a secure place to store a Metro Card or quick access to your smartphone, there is something for you.

What are the options?

Built-In: Backpack Shoulder Strap Pocket

Photo: Able Carry Thirteen Daybag with hidden strap pockets

Backpacks with strap pockets aren’t common, but they can be found if you look hard enough. The main limitation with built-in strap pockets is that most shoulder straps are thin, limiting the size of the pocket. Some brands have creative solutions, like stretchy pockets for phones, but the majority of built-in strap pockets are only large enough to fit small flat items such as a credit card or cash.

Modular: Backpack Strap Pouch

Photo: Chrome Barrage Cargo Backpack with Chrome Tech Accessory Pouch

If you want a shoulder strap pocket that can fit larger items like a large cell phone, a small notebook, or earbuds, your best bet is to go with an add-on shoulder strap pouch. These pouches are much larger than built-in shoulder strap pockets and offer more versatility in terms of what you can carry.

You can either buy into a modular backpack system, meaning a backpack brand that offers different modular shoulder strap pouches and pockets, or stick with the backpack you already own and choose a universal strap pouch. In this buying guide, we offer options for both.

Shoulder Strap Pocket Backpacks

Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti-Theft

Designed for optimal anti-theft security, the Pacsafe Metrosafe Anti-Theft Commuter Backpack will give you the ultimate peace of mind during busy commutes. While the most important pockets are located on the inside, it's the exterior of the backpack that offers the most wow-factor. You have a main compartment with an integrated lock, puncture-resistant zippers, and even the ability to lock the entire bag to a table or chair leg to prevent grab-and-run theft in public spaces.

The common backpack shoulder strap pocket is a small slip pocket for quick access to small items, but the Pacsafe Metrosafe Commuter goes a step further and offers a full zip design for an added layer of security. Here you can stash away small items like earbuds or a metro card and know they're going to be safe and sound during your daily commute.

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag

Small but mighty, the Able Carry Thirteen is a highly water resistant backpack that keeps you organized without the bulk. Along with a protective 13” laptop sleeve, you have plenty of dedicated spots to stash essentials like keys, chargers, and a water bottle.

The Able Carry Thirteen Daybag is easily one of our favorite backpacks with secret compartments, and two of those compartments are located inside the shoulder straps. Each shoulder strap is equipped with a small slip pocket that can fit small, flat items like metro cards, IDs, and credit cards. It makes a night out in the city safer and your public transportation trips a breeze.

SwissGear ScanSmart Backpack

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The SwissGear ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is a highly versatile bag designed to keep up with your busy daily routine and travel needs. It offers a crazy amount of compartments for optimal organization, a lay-flat compartment for easy TSA scans, and a bottom shoe compartment for the ability to separate your packing.

If you are specifically looking for a backpack with a cell phone pocket on the strap, then you are in luck. What sets this backpack apart is the built-in power bank pocket in the laptop compartment that allows you to route a charging cable to the outside of the pack. Store your phone inside the shoulder strap pocket, and now you have an integrated system for staying charged on the go!

Osprey Arcane Large Day

Designed for everyday commuting and busy days on campus, the Osprey Arcane backpack is equipped with features to make life just a little bit easier. Inside the main compartment, you are greeted with an organization panel for your laptop, chargers, keys, and other daily essentials.

One of our favorite design features of the Arcane backpack is all of the discreet low-profile pockets that can be found around the outside of the bag. On one side of the pack, you’ll find a low-profile stretch water bottle pocket that stays against the bag for a cleaner look when not in use, while a stretchy strap pocket is located on the right shoulder strap for easy access to small items you need quick access to, such as earbuds or transportation cards.

FENRUIEN Expandable Laptop Backpack

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The Fenruien Business Expandable Backpack is for both, well, you guessed it, business and travel. Its secret weapon is an expandable compartment that allows for a slim 26-liter daily carry size on workdays and an impressive 38 liters of packing room when expanded for travel packing. Other awesome features include laptop and tablet sleeves, a USB-C charging port, and plenty of pockets for organization.

This backpack also has a hidden strap pocket for cards. It’s a great spot for those identification and public transportation cards you need quick access to, and a built-in zipper keeps it nice and secure.

Modular Systems: Backpack Strap Pouches

Think of a modular backpack system as an ecosystem of backpacks and accessory attachments that flawlessly work together. Once you own the bag, you can start mixing and matching extra pouches and accessories to expand your carry. There are a few brands that offer these kinds of systems, but for shoulder strap pouches and pockets, the ones we feature below are our favorites.

Chrome Industries Backpacks + Accessory Pouches

Chrome is known for their highly water-resistant and tough-as-nails backpacks (no, seriously, these bags are built like tanks) for daily carry and commuting. We are partial to the Chrome Barrage Cargo for its rugged construction and cool colorways, but the brand offers a ton of great designs to fit your needs.

Whether you are looking for a backpack strap pouch for your phone or easy access to a pen and small notebook, Chrome offers a few great modular add-ons that can be purchased separately and are designed to attach specifically to their backpack straps. You can also use the pouches as standalone organizer storage and toss them inside the pack. These little pouches are built as rugged as their backpacks and we wouldn’t except any less from Chrome.

Chrome Tech Accessory Pouch

Chrome Phone Pouch

The Chrome Tech Accessory Pouch is large enough for all your little bits and bobs like a pen, charging cable, small notebook and a phone. Need a fast way to access your phone? Check out their Phone Pouches that can attach to any Chrome backpack strap.

Alpaka Elements Backpack + Modular Ad-Ons

If you are looking to enter an ecosystem of modular backpack strap pouches and accessories, then Alpaka is where you want to look. The Alpaka Elements is a compact urban backpack with an emphasis on organized daily carry. This is achieved by Alpaka's growing number of modular attachments that allow you to add special pockets where you need them for smarter carry.

Alpaka gives you the option to build a collection of the HUB Ecosystem of magnetic accessory attachments or go with modular pouches that can be attached to the shoulder straps of the Alpaka Elements Backpack. No matter what you need to carry, Alpaka offers a solution for everything from ID badges to earbuds and phones.

Alpaka Metro Pouch

Alpaka Modular Sling

Our favorite Alpaka backpack strap pouch has to be the Metro Pouch, a compact pouch for everyday essentials like earbuds, transportation cards, and small EDC tools. The Metro Pouch can be attached to a backpack strap or any one of Alpaka's various sling bags. A close second is the Alpaka Modular Sling, which includes a strap so you can carry the pouch as a standalone sling bag but can also be attached to a backpack strap. Inside, you'll be able to store valuables like a phone, passport, and tech.

Topo Designs Backpacks + Accessory Pouches

When people think of modular bags, Topo Designs usually doesn’t come to mind, but the truth is that the brand offers a great range of backpack designs that can be used with add-on shoulder strap pouches.

What’s great about Topo Designs is that their backpack collection ranges from affordable daily packs to higher-end American-made backpacks, allowing you to pick your poison according to your budget.

Topo Designs Taco Bag

Topo Designs Mountain Accessory Bag

Our favorite Topo pouches are the Taco Bag and Mountain Accessory Bag. Both of these pouches can be attached to backpack shoulder straps using the built-in clips and are large enough for small essentials like AirPods, cash, and cards.

Mission Workshop Arkiv Modular Backpack System

As far as modular backpacks go, the Mission Workshop Arkiv System offers some of the best, thanks to their incredible construction and innovative features. The Arkiv System gives you the option of a few different sized base backpacks and allows you to add as many accessories as your heart desires, so that you can build the perfect pack from the ground up. Some of their shoulder strap attachments include a phone pocket and utility pocket for tools and small essentials.

Universal Backpack Strap Pouches

If you don’t want to purchase a new backpack then universal shoulder strap pockets are always an affordable option. These ad-on pouches allow you to attach a strap pocket to a backpack you already own.

The only requirement with many of these is that your backpack straps should already have a horizontal loop or tab for attachments.

Clakit Phone Strap Pack 

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The Clakit Phone Strap Pack is as close to a universal strap pouch as you’ll get, thanks to its innovative wrap-around clip that allows you to attach the pouch to nearly any backpack strap. Inside, you’ll be able to fit a phone for easy access when you are on the move.

BOOSTEADY Backpack Strap Pouch

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The BOOSTEADY Backpack Strap Pouch is a large and affordable pouch for storing essential items that you need quick access to. Inside, you’ll be able to store items like a phone, small notebook, pens, and chargers thanks to its internal mesh pockets.

To use this backpack strap pouch, you’ll need a pack with a horizontal attachment loop to secure the pouch. Although most tactical backpacks have MOLLE attachments on the straps for compatibility, some daily backpacks also have something similar, so you should check your backpack before purchasing.

REI Co-Op Packmod Rainshield Pocket

The REI Rainshield is a shoulder strap pocket that can be attached to any backpack that has horizontal attachment loops. What makes this pocket special is its weatherproof seam-taped nylon construction that makes it perfect for commuting and backpacking, where keeping your gear dry is key. Inside, you can fit a phone, map, snacks, or whatever else your heart desires!

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7 Backpacks with Leather Bottoms (that aren’t Jansport)

Whenever most of us think of backpacks with leather bottoms we imagine the Jansport Right Pack with its nylon construction, suede base and classic bookbag silhouette.  It’s stylish, iconic and gets the job done. But what other high quality options are there?

The iconic Jansport Right Pack with a suede bottom

In this buying guide we explore our favorite leather bottom backpacks for those due for a serious upgrade. These premium options all use real leather in their construction and are a step up in craftmanship from the cheaper nylon backpacks you’ll usually find on a campus. 

Best Leather Bottom Backpacks

Nutsac Rucksac

Made in the USA with premium materials, the Nutsac Rucksac falls squarely in the “buy it for life” category of backpacks. This is a backpack that is constructed to last a lifetime and Nutsac even offers a lifetime guarantee to prove it.

The full-grain leather base adds structure and protection while additional leather touchpoints give the Rucksac a premium feel. Inside the main compartment you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve and additional pockets for organization. When it comes to backpacks with leather bottoms the Nutsac Rucksack tops our list thanks to its top-notch quality, tough construction and timeless style.

Video Review: Nutsac Rucksac

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Topo Designs Rover Pack (Made in USA)

Topo Designs Rover Pack is offered in a couple of options with leather bottoms for anyone looking to invest in a premium made in USA backpack. Both the Rover Pack Leather and Rover Heritage Canvas backpacks feature a leather bottom that wraps up into the front bottom panel for ultimate protection and a timeless look.

The leather base and accents are sourced from Horween - one of only a few tanneries in the United States - and the quality of the materials reflect this. With Horween leather you can expect a rugged and hardwearing leather that only gets better as it ages.

Mahi Leather Classic Backpack

The MAHI Leather Classic Backpack takes the iconic leather bottom backpack style and elevates it with a rugged cotton canvas and full grain leather construction - two materials that only look better with age. Small details such as brass fittings and leather shoulder straps also helps to give the Classic Backpack a more mature and streamlined style.

The MAHI Leather Classic Backpack is offered in a few different colors in cotton canvas as well as in an all-leather version for those who prefer a sleek monochrome look.

Harber London Classic Rucksack

Known for their handcrafted leather goods, Harber London offers a modern take on the iconic rucksack design with updates for modern carry such as separate padded laptop and tablet sleeves and special pockets for tech and daily essentials.

Each Classic Rucksack is handmade by expert craftsman in Spain and you can see the fruit of this labor in its impeccable construction, high-end waterproof materials and supple full grain leather throughout its design.

Harber London Office Backpack

The Harber London Office Backpack dares you to expect more from your daily carry by eliminating the choice between heritage craftsmanship and the modern features you would normally find in mass-produced laptop backpacks. Despite its classic look, the Office Backpack is suprisingly well equipped for modern life with pockets and compartments for everything from a laptop and tablet to your personal EDC.

Although Harber London uses premium full grain leather throughout the Office Backpack’s design, the bottom panel is actually made of a hardwearing abrasion-resistant and waterproof material that helps gives the Office Backpack its structure for a more streamlined look and offers maximum protection on rough surfaces.

For a closer look at what this backpack has to offer make sure to check out our in-depth Harber London Office backpack review.

Topo Designs Daypack (Made in USA)

Topo Designs offers their popular Daypack model in a leather version that features a Horween leather bottom and a premium construction. Every element of the Topo Designs Daypack is top-notch: heavy duty YKK zippers, hardwearing Cordura nylon exterior and premium leather sourced from one of America’s best tanneries. 

As far as backpacks with leather bottoms go, the design of the Topo Daypack is pretty straight forward with a familiar classic backpack design that still holds up well to today’s modern tech-centric carry needs. An internal sleeve can hold up to a 15” laptop compartment while smaller pockets throughout give you the organization you need to conquer a day of work or play.

Duluth Pack Deluxe Roll-Top Scout Pack

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Built to last a lifetime, the Duluth Pack Deluxe Roll-Top Scout Pack features a rugged canvas body with a hand-cut leather bottom for additional structure and strength. The roll-top design gives this backpack a natural waterproof barrier while also allowing the main compartment to expand when you need more room by unrolling the top. It’s small details like these that makes the Deluxe Roll-Top Scout Pack perfect for daily commuters, students and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable backpack that will last years not seasons.

Each Duluth Pack is handcrafted in Minnesota and comes equipped with a lifetime guarantee.

Alternatives To Leather: Synthetic Materials

The Everyman Hideout Pack with a waterproof PVC bottom

It’s no secret that backpacks that use premium leather in their construction can be on the pricier side. Thankfully there are synthetic materials that can give you the benefits of a backpack with a leather base without the sky high price tag.

If your goal is to have a rugged backpack with a reinforced bottom then going the synthetic materials like PVC or synthetic leather might be just what you are looking for. Here are some of our favorite alternatives to leather bottom backpacks.

Herschel Heritage Backpack

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Those looking for a similar look as more expensive leather bottom backpacks will love the Herschel Heritage for its timeless design and more affordable price. The synthetic leather base gives it that classic backpack look while also providing extra support when hauling heavy items.

The Herschel Heritage Backpack is available in a variety of different color options to match your style.

Chrome Barrage Cargo Backpack

The Chrome Barrage Cargo is easily one of the toughest backpacks on the market thanks to its rugged nylon exterior and completely waterproof welded construction. The bottom panel and base is made out of a thick heavy-duty 22oz 1000D TPE tarp that is waterproof with excellent tensile and tear strength for peace of mind when setting your backpack down on rough ground.

Check out our Chrome Barrage Cargo review where we deep dive into all of the features this backpack has to offer.

Everyman Hideout Pack

The Everyman Hideout Pack offers a unique style and rugged construction with plenty of features for the modern tech-centric commuter and traveler. The unique 3-way zipper makes loading this backpack a breeze while a separate clamshell laptop compartment makes life easy at airport TSA lines.

The base of the Everyman Hideout is made out of a heavy-duty 800g PVC material that is tear resistant, UV-resistant and waterproof. Whether you need a bag for daily commutes or for tossing into the bed of a pickup truck on your next adventure - the Everyman Hideout has you covered. Check out our Everyman Hideout Pack review for a closer look.

SansPeur BASEL Laptop Backpack

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SansPeur offers an affordable laptop backpack with all the features you need for work and weekends thanks to a generous main compartment and plenty of pockets to keep you organized. Inside the main compartment is where you’ll find an impressive array of pockets for a laptop and smaller accessories.

The base of the BASEL is made from faux leather that mimics the feel of suede. In addition to offering additional protection this unique base gives the BASEL the vintage look of similar leather bottom backpacks at a fraction of the price.

Why choose a backpack with a leather bottom?

These days we often equate leather bottom backpacks with throwback vintage styles and many brands place synthetic leather on the base of their bags to achieve this look. But there are advantages to having real leather at the base of a backpack other than aesthetics.

Leather is a robust material that will add significant tensile strength and prevent heavy loads from ripping and damaging the integrity of the backpack.

A good quality leather can also a lifetime. Leather is known for absorbing scuffs and scrapes like a champ and it tends to develop an attractive patina with use and age. Because of this leather has the ability to age like a fine wine when compared to other materials that have a bad habit of looking worn and tattered with extended use.

The bottom of a backpack is often the most prone to abuse since it has the most contact with rough surfaces. Having leather at the base is an easy way to keep your backpack looking great over time.

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14 Best Convertible Laptop Backpacks - Tote, Briefcase and Shoulder Bags

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

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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

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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

Buy on Amazon

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

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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

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13 Best Backpacks that Open Like a Suitcase - Travel Backpack Guide

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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How Big is a 20 Liter Backpack? Visual 20 Liter Backpack Size Guide

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:

• Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic

• Db Hugger 20L

• Able Carry Daily Backpack

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.

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14 Best Flap Backpacks for School - Canvas Buckle Flap Backpack Top Picks

A flap backpack is any backpack that has a “lid” on top that covers the main compartment opening. This design was made popular by the canvas rucksack - a classic barebones bag that predates the modern backpack.

Today, many backpack brands today offer their own version of the classic canvas rucksack with updated features such as laptop compartments, special pockets and unique colors.

In this list we will help you find the best flap backpack for school and introduce you to some of our favorite brands.

Best Flap Backpacks for School

Topo Designs Rover Pack

Equipped with a padded 15” laptop sleeve, plenty of storage pockets and a 20-liter main compartment for books and binders, the Topo Designs Rover Pack is one of the best school backpacks for those looking for a tough and reliable bag to lug around on campus. This buckle flap backpack even comes in dozens of different colors so you are bound to find one you absolutely love!

Fjallraven Foldsack No. 1 Backpack

Buy on Amazon

The Fjallraven Foldsack No. 1 is a top flap backpack that keeps things simple yet stylish. Its highly water resistant design makes it a great choice if you are looking for a bag that can survive rainy days on campus. This is thanks to the Foldsack’s top flap construction made out of G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco water resistant fabric.

Vera Bradley Utility Backpack

Buy on Amazon

The Vera Bradley Utility Backpack is the perfect option for anyone looking for a compact drawstring flap backpack for school, weekends and travel. With a 15-liter internal capacity, the Utility Backpack is large enough for light school loads such as a laptop and a few notebooks and binders. Plenty of pockets line the outside for quick access to pens, calculators and smaller personal items.

Someone Somewhere Expand Bag

Made by artisans in Oaxaca, Mexico the Someone Somewhere Expand Bag isn’t your average school book bag. Not only can you expect amazing quality and premium materials but its design really sets it apart from other canvas flap backpacks by giving you the ability to expand the main compartment as needed. This means you can make the bag smaller on light school days and expand it up all the way to 25 liters on busier days or for travel. It’s a pretty neat system.

Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Modoker offers an affordable flap backpack for school that doesn’t skimp on features with their Vintage Laptop Backpack. Awesome features include an external USB charging port for your phone, a 15.6” laptop pocket and cushioned shoulder strap for extra comfort when the bag gets heavy.

Gearonic Vintage Canvas Flap Backpack

Buy on Amazon

At 21 liters, the Gearonic Vintage Canvas Flap Backpack is the goldilocks of school bags. It manages to retain the look and feel of a classic rucksack without the bulk. The roomy main compartment is large enough for items like a laptop, books and notebooks and the various pockets are perfect for smaller items. If an authentic canvas buckle flap backpack is what you are looking for - this Gearonic bag will definitely check all the right boxes.

Burton Tinder Backpack

The Burton Tinder is the ideal large flap backpack for school thanks to its roomy 30 liter main compartment that allows you to pack everything you need for a long day of class and after school activities. The buckle flap enclosure gives you great rain and snow protection while the internal laptop compartment and multiple accessory pockets protect your important gear inside.

Topo Designs Y-Pack

The Y-Pack is Topo Design’s take on the classic drawstring flap backpack. Don’t let the Y-Pack’s simple design fool you - this backpack is equipped with a 15” padded laptop sleeve, a spacious 23.8L main compartment and plenty of pockets for water bottles and accessories. One thing we will say about Topo bags is that they are built to last. Each Y-Pack is made from 1000D Nylon with heavy duty YKK zippers for a rugged bag that can do double duty on campus and on the hiking trail.

Bluboon Canvas School Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Bluboon offers a canvas buckle flap backpack for school at an affordable price that doesn’t skimp on features. In addition to the various pockets that line the outside, the main compartment offers even more organization inside with pockets for a laptop, tablet, phone, pens and more. This is the backpack to grab if you are looking for an affordable backpack with lots of pockets.

Herschel Little America

The Little America by Herschel Supply is one of the most popular rucksacks for school, travel and outdoor adventures thanks to its vintage flap top drawstring design. As a school backpack you’ll love the padded laptop compartment that is lined with a soft felt to keep your tech safe. The large open main compartment is also the perfect size for a full day of books, notebooks, lunch and extra clothing.

Best Backpacks for School Under $50

See the list

Rothco Canvas Daypack

Buy on Amazon

The SUVOM Canvas Backpack mixes vintage style with modern features for best of both world’s carry. Although this backpack looks like it features a belt buckle top, the lid is really held together by metal buttons for fast and easy access to your gear inside. SUVOM also offers a padded 15.6” laptop sleeve and separate tablet and phone pockets to keep your modern tech organized and ready to go.

Fjallraven Greenland Top Backpack

The Fjallraven Greenland Top proves that less is better with its classic drawstring flap rucksack design made from hardwearing premium materials. The Greenland Top keeps it simple with a 20 liter main compartment, internal 15” laptop sleeve and snap-button side pockets. If a waxed canvas backpack for school is the look you are going for then you’ll love Fjallraven’s G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S fabric that is waxed for great weather protection and durability.

Everlane Renew Transit

The Everlane Renew Transit takes the classic flap backpack design and gives it a new modern twist. This unisex backpack offers a flap closure with zippered main compartment access and plenty of pockets for organizing your school gear. Available in multiple modern colors, you’ll love the clean design and practical features the Everlane Renew Transit backpack has to offer.

Modoker Vintage Rucksack

Buy on Amazon

The Modoker Vintage Rucksack is perfect for anyone looking for a canvas buckle flap backpack on a budget. But don’t let the low price fool you - this backpack is full of features that are perfect for busy students on the move. The outside of this backpack is filled with pockets for quick access to smaller items and it even comes equipped with a USB port to charge your phone on the go. Inside you’ll be greeted with an extra large 35 liter main compartment and a large 17” laptop sleeve. If you are looking for a large canvas flap backpack for school then the Modoker Vintage Rucksack definitely deserves a closer look.

What is a flap backpack?

A backpack with a flap is traditionally called a rucksack. Rucksacks were originally used in the military and for outdoor recreation as a way to haul large amounts of gear while still keeping your hands free for important tasks. These bags are usually made out of canvas and feature a large main compartment with few pockets.

The top “flap” on a backpack is also known as a lid. A lid provides an efficient way to close the main compartment while protecting the gear inside the bag from the elements. 

Read more

Today you can find a “flap backpack” design in a variety of styles including backpacks made specifically for laptop carry, photography, travel and school. We’ve come a long way from the days of big old canvas rucksacks and most brands now use new fabric technology and construction methods to add modern day features such as extra pockets, laptop sleeves and tech compartments.

What’S underneath the flap?

Backpacks with lids usually have 2 different types on enclosures underneath them: drawstrings or zippers.

Drawstring (Filson Ripstop Nylon Backpack) vs Zipper opening (Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack)

Flap backpack with drawstring

The most common type of flap backpack is one with a drawstring closure underneath the lid. These backpacks give you double protection as the drawstring cinches the main compartment shut and prevents your items from spilling out while the buckled lid adds another layer of protection and water resistance.

Most backpacks with a flap closure have a variety of this lid and drawstring combination.

Flap backpack with zipper

Some modern backpacks with lids use zippers instead of a drawstring closure. In this case the lid protects the zippers from getting wet which increases the water resistance of the backpack significantly. It’s also common to see pockets on the lid for extra storage.

Let’s talk about buckles

Not all flap backpacks are created equal. When picking out a new backpack you should pay attention to how the lid is secured to the backpack’s body as this determines how easy it is to get inside the main compartment.

Belt buckles - Some brands use traditional belt buckles to secure down the lid. Although these buckles look awesome, they can get very cumbersome to undo every-time you want to access the inside of your backpack.

Metal buckles - Brands like Fjallraven like to use metal hook buckles to secure their lids down to the bag. We like these because they are easy to use and incredibly durable.

Plastic buckles - Although it has become very common to use plastic buckles in flap backpack designs they do have their pros and cons. One hand they are very easy to use and allow quick access to your stuff. On the other hand they aren’t as durable or nice looking as a metal buckle.

Magnets - Lastly, we have flap backpacks that look like they have complicated belt buckles but use magnets instead to secure the lid in place. The best example of this is the Herschel Little America backpack. This design allows you to get a cool vintage buckle look without the hassle.

The good news? Magnets are the easiest to use as you can open your bag in seconds with just a pull. The bad news? Magnets don’t secure the lid as well as a mechanical buckle and are very easy to pull apart.

Can You Use a Flap Backpack for School?

Yes! Many flap backpacks are perfect for school thanks to their large open main compartments and rugged construction. Here are some features that are worth looking out for if you are looking for a school backpack.

Read More

Large main compartment

Rucksacks have the advantage of having large main compartments that are great for storing large school books, binders, clothing and a lunch. You can take advantage of a flap backpack for school with a large open main compartment if find yourself lugging around lots of stuff and could use the room.

If you are not sure if a backpack is going to be too big or too small for your needs check out our backpack size guide for a better look at what can fit inside 20L, 25L and 30L size backpacks.

Laptop and Tech Compartment

Today’s modern student needs a modern backpack that can protect their laptop, tablet and tech accessories. Most flap backpacks today have special laptop compartments or padded sleeves for your laptop and tablet. When choosing a vintage style flap backpack, make sure that the pockets are updated to carry your tech with confidence.

Water resistant

One major advantage of a flap backpack over a regular zippered backpack is that the lid offers additional protection from the elements since it covers the main compartment opening. If you want additional water resistance you can go with a canvas flap backpack since canvas is naturally water resistant. Other great materials are leather, nylon and fabrics that have a special coating on them to actively repel water.

We have an entire list of the best waterproof backpacks for college that you can take a look at if owning a highly water resistance school backpack is a priority.

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

Note: This article was last updated in April 2024, and we will continue to provide updates as we find new backpacks.

Let’s be honest - most backpacks have water bottle pockets. So why did we even bother writing this buying guide?

The truth is that many pockets are either too shallow, too flimsy, or just too small—especially for those carrying larger stainless steel water bottles, like the popular 32 oz or 40 oz sizes. Do you carry a Stanley Cup or other tumbler with a handle? Finding a backpack that fit these larger bottles can be almost impossible.

In this guide, not only do we focus on helping you find the best backpack with a water bottle holder but one that fits your specific water bottle. We tested these backpacks ourselves to confirm which size bottles fit and posted the results.

Types of Backpacks with Water Bottle Pockets

This backpack buying guide is split into two main lists.

• Best backpacks with water bottle holders

• Backpacks with hidden water bottle pockets
  

The North Face Surge (left) and the Knack Pack (right)

Backpacks with water bottle holders have your standard side pockets on the outside of the bag. Most backpacks with water bottle holders have this style of pocket.

Backpacks with hidden water bottle pockets offer a more discreet way to carry your water bottles. These pockets can be internal and completely hidden or can blend into the backpack so that they aren’t in the way when not in use. We like these the best for keeping a clean profile.

Water Bottles We Used to Test

Below is a list of water bottles we used to test these backpacks.

• Hydro Flask 24 oz

• Hydro Flask 32 oz

• Hydro Flask 40 oz

• Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth

• CamelBak 32 oz Chute Mag

• Owala Freesip 40 oz

• Owala Tumbler 40 oz

• Stanley Quencher 40 oz

• Yeti Rambler 64 oz

Best Backpacks with Water Bottle Holders

Topo Designs Rover Pack

Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 40 oz and under, including 40 oz and 32 oz Hydro Flask, 32 oz Nalgene Wide Mouth and 27 oz Bink Day Bottle

• Does not fit tumblers with handles

Topo Designs is one of those backpack brands that just understands a well designed water bottle holder. The Rover Pack offers a deep gusseted water bottle holder on each side of the pack that can fit a 32oz Nalgene or most stainless steel water bottles up to 40oz. Since these pockets can be compressed with a strap, they can also securily hold small water bottles as well.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 20L

• 15" laptop sleeve

• Available in over a dozen colors

The North Face Recon

Our test results:

• Fits water bottles 40 oz and under, including 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydroflask, 32 oz Nalgene bottle, Owala Freesip 40 oz and Bink Day Bottle 27 oz

• Fits 40oz tumbler with handle like the 40oz Stanley Cup and 40oz Owala Tumbler

If you are looking for a good backpack with a water bottle pocket, North Face backpacks are some of the best around in our humble opinion. The brand uses a mix of water resistant textile and stretchy mesh that hugs your water bottle and keeps it snuggly in place. Our testing found that The North Face Recon can fit 40oz water bottles, including tumblers such as the 40oz Stanley Cup and 40oz Owala Tumbler. The trick is to undo the side compression strap over the water bottle pocket to allow the elastic to stretch fully.

See our The North Face Recon review for a closer look at all features.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 30L

• 15" laptop compartment

• Roomy main compartment is perfect as a daily work pack or school bookbag

• Can turn into a hydration backpack for hiking

PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE 32L BACKPACK

Our test results:

• Fits all water bottles 40 ounces and under, including the 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydroflask, 40 oz Owala Freesip and 32 oz Nalgene bottle.

• Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles

• Fits 40 oz tumbler like the Stanley Cup and Owala Tumbler

• Fits 64 oz Yeti Rambler

• Small bottles like a 500ml or 24 oz bottle will be a little loose in the pocket

The Patagonia Black Hole 32L has some of the largest and stretchiest side pockets we have ever tested. These pockets have enough room for a 40 oz Stanley Quencher tumbler or 40 oz Owala tumbler and are even large enough to fit the massive 64 oz Yeti Rambler!

We also tested the water bottle pockets on the smaller Black Hole 25L but it's important to note that its pockets are narrower and can only fit up to a 40 oz water bottle like the Owala Freesip or Hydro Flask Wide Mouth. To compare the two backpacks check out our Patagonia Black Hole 25L vs 32L comparison.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 32L

• 16" laptop compartment

• High quality materials with water-resistant DWR finish

• Daisy chains on exterior for bungee cord or accessory attachments

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L

Our test results:

• Fits all bottles 40 ounces and under, including the Bink Day Bottle 27 oz, 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40oz Hydroflask, 40 oz Owala Freesip and 32 oz Nalgene bottle.

• Fits up to 40 oz tumbler with handle like the Stanley Quencher tumbler and Owala Tumbler

• Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles

• Fits 64 oz Yeti Rambler

Patagonia makes our list again but this time with the Atom Tote Pack 20L. This backpack is great for shorter people with a smaller frame who want a more appropriate fit. Despite its small size, the Patagonia Atom Tote Pack has very stretchy water bottle pockets that can fit a Stanley Cup or even a 64 oz water bottle like the Yeti Rambler. Not bad for such as small laptop backpack!

For a closer look at the details make sure to see our Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L review.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 20L

• 13" padded laptop sleeve

• Lightweight design with very comfortable shoulder straps

• Switch from computer backpack to hydration backpack thanks to removable laptop sleeve that makes room for a water bladder.

Sherpani Camden Convertible Backpack

Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 40 oz and under including the Bink Day Bottle 27 oz, 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40oz Hydroflask, 40 oz Owala Freesip and 32 oz Nalgene bottle.

• Fits tumbler with handle up to 40 oz, like the Owala Tumbler and Stanley Cup

The Sherpani Camden is a cute backpack, tote and crossbody bag in one! In addition to being roomy enough for school, work and travel - the Camden also offers deep and stretchy water bottle pockets that will hold any 40oz water bottle perfectly in place. The stretchy elastic even fits 40oz tumblers making it the perfect backpack for a Stanley Cup.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 21L

• 15" dedicated laptop sleeve

• Available in tons of fun colors

• Convertible: backpack, tote bag and crossbody bag

• Perfect size to use as a personal item backpack on flights

King Kong PLUS Backpack

Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 64 ounces and under including shaker bottles, water bottles and tumblers with handles

• Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles

• Fits the Yeti Rambler 64 oz

• Small bottles stay in place due to deep pockets with elastic

We recommend the King Kong PLUS to anyone looking for a great gym backpack with a shoe compartment thanks to its sturdy construction, easy access pockets and unique design. The two massive side pockets are easily some of the largest we have ever tested. When used as water bottle sleeves, they consume the giant 64 oz Yeti Rambler and can handle 40 oz tumblers like a champ. Thanks to the elastic and the depth of each pocket, even smaller bottles stay securely in place.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 26L

• 15" dedicated laptop sleeve

• External shoe compartment that zips flat when not in use

• Unique dual access to the main compartment (clamshell and regular)

Osprey Proxima 30 Backpack

Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 64 ounces and under, including 32oz Nalgene, all Hydro Flask sizes and all Yeti Rambler water bottle sizes.

• Fits tumblers with handles like the 40 oz Owala and Stanley tumbler

• Small bottles like a 500ml or 20 oz water bottle will be a little loose in the pocket but the pocket is deep enough to keep it securely in place.

Designed to be the ultimate school backpack, the Osprey Proxima 30 is loaded with a large main compartment, spacious pockets and two perfectly stretchy water bottle pockets to keep you hydrated on long days. The high quality mesh that Osprey uses on their backpacks is some of the best. It can accomodate large 40 oz bottles and tumblers but still holds smaller slim bottles in place. It can even fit a 64 ounce water bottle!

Key Features:

• Capacity: 30L

• 16" laptop compartment

• Front compression straps gives you extra storage for bulky jackets or a skateboard

• Airscape backpanel for great stability

Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack

Our Test Results

• Will fit all water bottles 40 ounces and under, including the 32 ounce Hydro Flask and 40 ounce Owala Freesip

• Easily fits 40 ounce tumbler like the Owala or Stanley Tumbler

• Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles

• Fits 64 ounce water bottle like the Yeti Rambler

The Osprey Daylite Plus has one of the most versatile designs available today. It can serve as a travel backpack, thanks to its built-in trolley sleeve, a daily laptop backpack, or you can add a water bladder to transform it into a hydration backpack for hiking.

The side pockets on the Daylite Plus are great thanks to the stretchy mesh that securely holds large water bottles with ease. Big bottles, such as the 40-ounce Owala or Stanley tumbler, fit comfortably inside. Additionally, the deep pockets are perfect for making sure smaller bottles, like a 20-ounce or 24-ounce stainless steel bottle, stay securely in place.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 20L

• 14" padded sleeve for laptop or tablet

• Super light weight design

• Available in tons of different colors

• Versatile design: Can be used for travel, laptop carry and day hikes

Rains Trail Mountaineer Bag

Our test results:

• Will fit most water bottles up to 64 ounces, including the Yeti Rambler 64oz

• 40 oz tumblers with handles can easily fit

• Fits larger 1 L and 1.5 L water bottles

• Smaller bottles 24 ounces and under will be a loose fit inside the pocket

Crafted from waterproof materials, the Rains Trail Mountaineer Bag blurs the line between a high-end fashion backpack and a rugged outdoor bag. At its core, it's an everyday backpack designed to handle life's essentials, including a laptop, cell phone, jacket, large water bottle and other common daily items,. The extra-large mesh side pocket accommodates most bottles up to 64 oz, including a 40-ounce tumbler with a handle, making it perfect for carrying your drinks with ease.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 22L

• 16" laptop sleeve

• Made with Rains' signature waterproof fabric

• External straps, bungee and webbing allow you to expand your storage (you can easily attach an extra water bottle to the straps)

THE NORTH FACE SURGE

Our test results:

• Will fit most water bottles 40 oz and under, including 32oz and 40oz Hydro Flask with a boot, 32 oz Nalgene, Owala and Yeti water bottles

• Will fit 40 oz tumblers with handles like the Stanley Quencher and Owala tumbler

The Surge is one of the largest North Face backpacks currently available thanks to its 31-liter capacity, multi-device laptop compartment, and large number of pockets. A bigger footprint also means large side pockets for water bottles. We found that the side water bottle holders can easily fit larger bottles like the 32 oz Nalgene, 40 oz Hydro Flask and even a 40-ounce Owala or Stanley tumbler.

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

Key Features:

• Capacity: 31L

• 15" laptop compartment with extra sleeve for a tablet or documents

• Includes chest strap and removable hip belt

• Lots of organization: 19 pockets total

Stubble & Co. The Backpack

Our test results:

• Fits slim water bottles 20 ounces and under, including 500 ml water bottles

The Backpack by Stubble & Co is great for anyone looking for a high quality backpack that is built to last. The side water bottle pockets on this backpack are deep enough to secure a water bottle, umbrella or small items without worry of anything slipping out when on the move. Just keep in mind that although the side water bottle holders are great for smaller 500ml and 20 ounce bottles, they are not going to fit large water bottles.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 21L

• 16" laptop sleeve

• Made of water resistant waxed canvas.

Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack

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Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 40 ounces and under, including 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydroflask, 32 oz Nalgene, 40 oz Owala Freesip water bottle and shaker bottles.

• Does not fit tumbers with handles like the Stanley Quencher or Owala Tumbler 40oz

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is a sports and school backpack for those with busy schedules. This backpack includes a large main compartment, front organizers and a separate bottom compartment for shoes. As a backpack with water bottle holder, the Hustle includes two extra large mesh pockets on either side that can hold most big bottles up to 40 ounces. However, they do not stretch far enough for tumblers with handles like the Owala and Stanley Tumber.

Check out our Under Armour Hustle 5.0 review for more details or check out our Under Armour Hustle 5.0 vs Pro backpack comparison (the Pro has a water bottle cooler pocket!)

Key Features:

• Capacity: 29L

• 16" laptop sleeve

• Bottom shoe compartment

• Organizer compartment for smaller items

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Pacsafe Vibe Anti-Theft Backpack

As far as anti-theft backpacks go, few brands offer as much innovation and smart design as Pacsafe. With their 20 liter Vibe Anti-Theft backpack, Pacsafe offers a creative take on the daily backpack by giving you plenty of anti-theft features like anti-slash fabrics and the ability to lock the bag to a table or chair leg when needed. 

The water bottle pockets on the Vibe are made of a tight-knit mesh that keeps your bottle snuggly in place and is deep enough to secure your bottles if you were to lean over. And because this mesh is incredibly stretchy, you can accommodate a variety of water bottle sizes without worry.

Jansport Superbreak Plus

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The original Jansport Superbreak is one of the best affordable backpacks you can use for school, commuting or travel but unfortunately it leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to modern features. Jansport changes the tide by offering the Superbreak Plus. This updated Superbreak gives you the best the original had to offer with the addition of a 15” laptop sleeve and side pocket, making the Plus a perfect option for anyone looking for a Jansport backpack with water bottle pocket.

Backpacks with Hidden Water Bottle Pockets

Knack Pack Expandable Backpack

Our test results:

• Only fits slim water bottles 24 ounces and under, including 500 ml water bottles

• Water bottles with handles or lids that protrude will not fit (example: CamelBak Chute Mag or Thermoflask Chug Lid)

The Knack Pack is an expandable everyday and travel pack for those who want one bag to rule them all. We tested the Medium Knack Pack size that has an 17 liter volume unexpanded for daily carry and can expand up to 31 liters for travel. The hidden water bottle pocket can be found on the side of the backpack and we found that it can only fit smaller bottles 24 ounces and under. This should be no problem for people who carry slim bottles from popular brands like Klean Kanteen, Hydro Flask and Owala.

We have testes both the Knack Pack Series 1 and Series 2 extensively and have found that the water bottle pocket on the Series is one is slightly larger and can fit more bottle sizes. For a closer look at the difference between the two, check out our Knack Pack Series vs Series 2 comparison.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 17-31L expandable

• 15" laptop sleeve and separate tablet sleeve in main compartment

• Made with anti-microbial lining to prevent stinky smells

• Perfect work and travel bag thanks to hidden packing compartment and lots of pockets.

Able Carry Daily Plus Backpack

Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 40 ounces and under, including the 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydro Flask, 32 oz Nalgene bottle, and all slim water bottles 24 ounces and under.

• Tumblers with handles will not fit

The Able Carry Daily Plus is a lightweight daypack for those who are serious about organization of tech and daily essentials. The Daily Plus is equipped with a 16-inch laptop sleeve, seperate tablet sleeve and plenty of pockets for organization - all housed inside a minimalist outer design. This backpack ditches the traditional water bottle holder for a hidden side pocket that can fit a stainless steel water bottle up to 40 ounces, such as the 40oz Hydro Flask Wide Mouth water bottle.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 21L

• 16" dedicated laptop sleeve and 11" tablet sleeve

• High quality X-Pac water resistant construction

• Super comfortable shoulder straps with ergonomic back panel

Able Carry Max Backpack

Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 40 ounces and under, including the 32 oz Hydro Flask, 40 oz Hydro Flask, 32 oz Nalgene bottle, and all slim water bottles 24 ounces and under.

• Tumblers with protruding handles will not fit

Designed for both daily carry and travel, the Able Carry Max offers a stylish minimalist design and beefy construction for those who want one tough versatile backpack. The large main compartment gives you a ton of packing space while the rear laptop compartment acts as a mobile office for your tech and accessories.

Like the smaller Able Carry Daily Plus Backpack, the Max offers an internal water bottle pocket that stays hidden when zipped shut. We found that it can fit up to a 40 oz stainless steel water bottle with ease.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 30L

• 17" rear laptop compartment

• High quality X-Pac water resistant construction

• Lockable zippers, luggage sleeve and large main compartment for travel

Ridge Commuter Backpack 20L

Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 24 ounces or smaller, including 24 oz Hydro Flask and 500ml bottles.

The Ridge Commuter Backpack is one of our favorite daily carry and travel backpacks thanks to clever pockets that allow you to have everything in its right place. The highly water-resistant construction also makes it one of favorite waterproof backpacks for college.

This backpack has water bottle holders on each side of the pack that stay hidden when zipped closed. Our testing found that the side pockets can securliy fit slim water bottles up to 24 ounces. This means your 17oz, 20oz and 500 ml water bottles will all fit inside the side pockets.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 20L

• 16" laptop compartment with water resistant zipper

• Includes removable main compartment divider for easier packing

• Water resistant construction

Nomatic Backpack

Our test results:

• Fits most water bottles 40 ounces and under, including 32 oz Hydro Flask , 40 oz Hydro Flask and 32 ounce Nalgene water bottle.

Looks can be deceiving with the Nomatic backpack. A minimalist exterior doesn’t exactly prepare you for the number of pockets that meet you once inside the pack. In fact, it's one of our favorite recommendations for people looking for a backpack with lots of pockets.

When it comes to water bottle holders, the Nomatic does things a bit different. Each side pocket is held together by a magnet that stays flat against the backpack when not in use but inside is a very stretchy mesh material that can old up to a 40 ounce water bottle. Smaller bottles are held firmly in place thanks to the stretchy mesh that hugs the bottle.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 20-24L expandable main compartment

• Seperate laptop and tablet sleeves

• Hide the shoulder straps and carry like a briefcase

• Water resistant materials and zippers

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11 Best Personal Item Backpacks For Delta, United, American Airlines and more

When it comes to comfort and versatility nothing beats a well-designed backpack. So it should come as no surprise that a backpack is our airline personal item bag of choice.

If you are looking to use a backpack as a personal item on your next trip then you may be disappointed to discover that most backpacks may be too large or just lacking the features needed to used as an on-flight travel bag.

This is why we decided to do the research and list the best backpacks that can be used as personal items on flights. Our top picks fit a number of important personal item requirements such as size, pocket placement and travel-friendly design features.

Timbuk2 Division

Fits Most Airlines

Buy on Timbuk2

Db The Strøm 20L

Best for Travel

Buy on Db

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

Modern Design

Buy on Everlane

Difference Between a Personal Item and a Carry-On

Let’s start with explaining the difference between a personal item and carry-on bag.

The difference is simple: a carry-on bag must fit in the overhead compartment while a personal item must fit underneath the seat in front of you.

If a bag is too large to fit in underseat storage then it will be treated as a carry-on bag. If a carry-on bag is too large to fit in overhead storage then it will be treated as a check-in bag and you will not able to bring it on the airplane cabin with you.

Examples of carry-on bags include carry-on luggage, weekender backpacks and large travel bags and duffels. Personal item bags include a purse, briefcase or small backpack.

Each airline has their own specific measurements for what can be considered a carry-on and a personal item so it’s important that you check with your airline to make sure your bags fit the measurement requirements.

When it comes to personal items it’s also important to understand that underseat dimensions can vary by airplane, boarding class and seat location. For example, there is no underseat stowage in the front rows behind the bulkhead and smaller planes tend to have smaller underseat storage dimensions.

Shown above: Knack Pack Series 1 expandable backpack

Is a backpack a personal item?

Can a backpack be a personal item? The simple answer is yes, a backpack can be a personal item.

The important thing to note about airline personal items is that just about any bag can be used as long as it fits under the airline’s personal item dimensions. This includes backpacks, diaper bags, purses and briefcases. 

The key to making a backpack count as a personal item is to make sure it’s small enough to meet the size requirements. Many backpacks may be too bulky to fit underneath an airline seat or can be considered too large by the airline.

Below is a chart of the most popular airlines in the United States with their stated personal item bag size. This chart was last updated on 09/24/2019. Make sure to check your airline’s official website for the latest carry-on and personal item size requirements.

Airline	Personal Item Size
American Airlines	18" x 14" x 8"
Alaska Airlines	No specific size
Air Canada	17" x 13" x 6"
Delta	No specific size (see our Delta size guide)
Frontier	18" x 14" x 8"
JetBlue	17" x 13" x 8"
Southwest	18.5" x 13.5" x 8.5"
Spirit	18" x 14" x 8"
United Airlines	17" x 10" x 9"

If you are looking for more airline-specific guidance make sure to check out our personal item backpack guides for JetBlue, United Airlines and Delta Airlines

Best Personal Item Backpacks

Timbuk2 Division Laptop Backpack

The Timbuk2 Division is our top pick for the best personal item backpack, thanks to its airline-friendly size, protective laptop sleeve, and rugged, water-resistant construction. At 22 liters, the Classic Backpack is roomy enough to hold airline travel essentials, such as headphones, clothing, water bottles, and snacks.

The Division's compact dimensions also meet most major airline personal item requirements, including those of United Airlines and JetBlue, which have more restrictive personal item size limits. This makes the Timbuk2 Division a reliable go-to underseat bag for years to come!

• Bag dimensions: 17.3” x 10.6” x 5.12”

Db The Strøm Backpack (20L)

Available in a ton of fun colors, the Db Strøm is the backpack for those who want to pack as much as possible while still staying under most airline personal item bag size requirements. This is thanks to the Strøm’s roomy 20 liter clamshell main compartment for easy packing of clothes, toiletries and more. 

Since all personal items must be stowed away underneath an airline seat, we really like the Strøm’s large top pocket that allows for easy access to things like a phone, charging cables or headphones without having to pull the backpack out from underneath the seat. It’s small details like these that make the Db Strøm a perfect travel companion.

A great feature of the Db Strøm is that it can attach to Db’s roller luggage using the brand’s innovative Hook-Up System. This allows for easy carry of all your bags at once which can make a big difference on hectic travel days.

• Bag Dimensions: 17.7” x 10.6” x 5.5”

Day Owl Backpack

The Day Owl backpack would make an excellent personal item bag to take on flights thanks to its sleek design. It’s low profile also makes it easy to carry and maneuver through crowded airports. Inside, it offers great functionality with carefully designed compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized during your journey. The padded laptop pocket can securely accommodate up to a 16" laptop, while the spill-resistant bottle pocket is ideal for carrying a water bottle.

Additional features like the floating top pocket, flat front pocket, and secret side pocket provide convenient storage for small essentials such as glasses, lip balm, wallet, pens, keys, phone, and more. With its sustainable materials and thoughtful design, the Day Owl backpack is the perfect companion for hassle-free and stylish travels.

• Bag Dimensions: 17” x 12" x 5”

Osprey Arcane Daypack

The Osprey Arcane is a minimalist backpack for both daily carry and travel for those who want to keep things organized. Known for their functional outdoor bags, the Osprey Arcane is made with highly water resistant fabric to keep your gear safe and a breathable mesh back panel for all-day comfort. It’s this commitment to functionality that allowed Osprey to gain a spot on our favorite brands like Fjallraven list.

Inside you’ll find a 16” laptop sleeve as well as an array of organizer pockets for a boarding passes, a passport and tech accessories. The Arcane’s small footprint and compact design is compliant with all airline personal item size restrictions for peace of mind when traveling.

• Bag Dimensions: 17.72” x 11.81” x 8.66”

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

Everlane’s newest addition to their bag line is also incredibly airline friendly. The Everlane ReNew Transit backpack offers a roomy design that also fits most airline personal item size requirements. The backpack has travel-friendly features such as a side water bottle pocket, outer zip pockets for small items and a generous main compartment for clothes, toiletries and more. When used as an airline personal item we like that you have access to a zip pocket located on the top of the backpack lid for easy access to essentials like headphones or a phone while the bag is stored underneath the airplane seat. The laptop sleeve also has side zip access so you don’t have to open up the main compartment to access your tech. 

The Everlane ReNew Transit backpack is designed to be unisex and can be worn by just about anyone. And thanks to Everlane’s multiple color options you can choose the right one to fit your style and taste.

• Bag Dimensions: 17.5” x 12” x 7.25”

Pacsafe Venturesafe Anti-Theft Day Pack

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The Pacsafe Ventursafe is an anti-theft travel backpack made for lugging around essentials during busy travel days. It’s safety features include RFID blocking pockets, slashproof materials, and an anti-pickpocket design. As for carry, the Venturesafe includes a handy organization panel pocket in the front for easy access to small items during a flight in addition to a roomy main compartment with a 13-inch laptop sleeve. Once you arrive to your destination, the Pacsafe Venturesafe makes the ideal travel daypack thanks to it’s anti-theft design and moderate size.

• Bag Dimensions: 18.1” x 10.2” x 6.3”

Knack Small expandable knack pack

Knack’s Small Expandable Knack Pack is a multi-functional backpack designed to be used as both a daily backpack and travel bag. This is thanks to it’s expandable main compartment that makes room for clothing and travel gear when you need it to. Compressed, the Knack Pack gives you plenty of pockets and compartments that you have come to expect in a daily driver backpack - making it perfect to use as a daypack once you get to your destination.

The Small Expandable Knack Pack is recommended for anyone looking for a quality travel backpack to use as a free personal item on most airlines. Even when fully expanded, the Small Knack Pack only measures in at 17" x 12" x 9” which is small enough to fit underneath most airlines seats.

Bag Dimensions: 

• Unexpanded: 17" x 12" x 5"

• Expanded: 17” x 12" x 9"

Matein Anti-Theft Hard Shell Backpack

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It’s not often that you can find an affordable weekender backpack small enough to fit underneath an airline seat but Matein pulls it off with their Anti Theft Hard Shell backpack. This backpack has an expandable main compartment that so that you can master the art of one-bag travel on short trips. 

Matein does a great job at providing enough internal organization for your laptop, chargers and personal travel items. Plus the entire backpack features a hard shell construction that’s usually only reserved for suitcases. Add in a built-in anti-theft lock, external USB phone charging and a sleek compact design and you have the perfect personal item backpack.

• Bag Dimensions: 17” x 10”x 6.5” (unexpanded) & 17” x 10” x 8” (expanded)

Troubdaour Bivy Tote Backpack

If you are on the hunt for a stylish travel backpack for air travel then the Troubadour Bivy is worth a closer look. This small backpack fits most airline personal item requirements while still providing room for light packing thanks to its 21 liter capacity and endless pockets.

Designed as a daily and travel backpack the Troudabour Bivy Tote Backpack offers clever features such as discreet side water bottle pockets, padded laptop and tablet sleeves and waterproof fabric and zippers for extra protection from the elements. Want to change your look? The Troubdadour Bivy converts from backpack to tote bag in seconds thanks to its stowable shoulder straps.

• Bag Dimensions: 17" x 11" x 7”

Topo Designs Rover Pack

The Rover Pack by Topo Designs is a medium-sized backpack that can be used for everything from air travel to sightseeing and outdoor hikes. This is thanks to the Rover Pack’s thoughtful travel features and handy pocket placement that makes accessing your essentials a breeze while on the move. Features include everything from a convenient top pocket for easy-access to passports and boarding passes to a padded 15” laptop sleeve to keep your expensive tech safe and secure. 

• Bag Dimensions: 17” x 11” x 4.5”

Read more about the Topo Rover

As a travel bag, the Rover Pack packs a punch with a generous 20 liter of main compartment capacity. This travel bag is also made super tough - Topo uses nylon pack cloth on the body and heavy duty YKK zippers for the pockets. When all is said and done the Topo Designs Rover Pack might be one of the best values on this list given its great quality materials that are usually reserved for more expensive bags.

Fjallraven Kanken 15-inch

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The Fjallraven Kanken is one of the most popular backpacks on the planet right now and it’s easy to see why. Beloved by school children and traveling adults alike, the Fjallraven offers a large and roomy main compartment with full panel zipper access. This design makes the Kanken perfect for storing clothing, toiletry bags and other travel items. Its compact size and square shape makes it ideal for underseat airline storage and the top handle makes the bag easy to grab when you are seated.

We chose to go with the slightly larger 15-inch laptop version of the Kanken for this list. Not only does it include a padded laptop sleeve (the original Kanken design does not) but despite its larger size, the Kanken 15-inch still measures under the personal item bag requirements for most airlines.

• Bag Dimensions: 15.7” x 11” x 6.3”

How to Choose the Best Personal Item Backpack

If you have read this far and didn’t love our any of the backpack choices then that’s ok. 

Each backpack on this list was chosen because it fit our own personal item bag requirements and you can use these same guidelines to find the right personal item backpack for you.

These requirements include:

1. Backpack size

2. Pocket accessibility

3. Travel features

4. Backpack quality

1. Backpack Size

It’s no secret that airlines will crack down on the size of your personal items and carry-ons, this is especially true on smaller planes and crowded flights. We made sure that each backpack on our list fits the maximum personal item bag size for most airlines.

Southwest Airlines has one of the largest personal item size limits at 18.5”x 13.5” x 8.5” while United Airlines has one of the smallest personal item bag limits at 17” x 10” x 9”. Since each airline bag requirement is different we can’t guarantee that every backpack on this list will be the right size for you next trip, but we have found that 18-inches is the average maximum height for most airline personal item bags.

When it comes to carrying capacity, backpacks under 20 liters are usually small enough to be considered a personal item with the most common size being around 18 liters. While you can’t expect to pack for an entire 2-week vacation at this capacity, it’s the perfect size to carry the essentials you will need for a comfortable flight. Travel pillows, water bottles, books and a laptop can all comfortably fit inside an 18-20 liter backpack.

2. Pocket Accessibility

Another must-have in a personal item backpack is good pocket placement that can be easily accessed while you are seated on the flight. A personal item is meant to be stored underneath the seat in front of you and the most important items in your bag should be easily accessible.

Ideal pocket placement will be on the top and front of the bag. This allows you to grab small essentials like headphones, charging cables and snacks without having to remove the entire backpack from underneath the seat.

Laptop accessibility is also important as you will want to be able to quickly grab or store your laptop without having to rummage through the backpack’s main compartment. Backpacks with side or top laptop access are the best options when choosing a personal item bag. It also makes going through security checks at the airport much smoother as you’ll have quicker access to your tech.

3. Travel-friendly Features

Travel-friendly features include things like trolley sleeves so that you can attach the backpack to rolling luggage, passport or ticket stash pockets and lockable zippers. Find out which travel features you can’t live without and go with a backpack that includes as much of them as possible. This may sound like a no-brainer but it’s still worth mentioning. Getting to the airport and not having a quick pocket to stash your airline tickets is a sorry fate.

4. Backpack Quality

The final requirement we have for choosing the best personal item backpack is quality. When choosing any travel bag you want to make sure the quality is good enough to withstand the rough handling usually encountered on busy trips.

Brands with a reputation of good quality like Patagonia, eBags and Fjallraven were sure to make our list. But we also made sure to not mention backpacks that were too cheap. We’re talking about those $20 backpacks that may get the job done but fall apart with repeated use.

You want to make sure the bag you purchase can be your go-to travel bag for years to come. This means spending a little more on brands that offer quality materials, good construction, and smart designs.

If you are looking for a versatile backpack that can also be used as a daypack once at your destination make sure to look out for high quality materials that are water resistant. If protecting expensive tech on your travels is important, then going with bags with extra padding in the laptop sleeve and separate fleece-lined pockets for small electronics will be your best bet.

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7 Affordable Goruck GR1 Alternatives

Looking for a good Goruck alternative? We’ve done the research to bring you 7 different affordable options to the popular Goruck GR1 backpack. The GR1 is a quality USA made backpack with tons of great features like a laptop compartment, external molle, and a hydration access port. It comes in 21L or 26L options which are the great sizes for everyday carry.

The backpacks on this list have many similar features as the Goruck GR1 but at a much lower price point. Take a look at our reviews below to explore the unique features each of the backpacks have to offer.

Packs like GORUCK: GR1 Alternatives

One of the main selling points of Goruck bags is the versatility that is embedded into each bag’s design. The Goruck GR1 is the perfect blend of civilian minimalism and tactical functionality. It’s such a good design that other backpack brands were quick to mimic some of its best features. While few bags can offer everything that the GoRuck GR1 offers, a few brands do come close.

Below are our the best bags like Goruck for anyone looking for a good GR1 alternative at a cheaper price point.

Recycled Firefighter The Battalion 24HR

Recycled Firefighter offers a cheaper GoRuck backpack alternative that rivals the GR1 in design and function with the Battalion 24HR. At a 18 liter capacity the Battalion 24HR runs a little smaller than the GR1 but what it lakes in size it makes up in construction, functionality and price. Made out of a tough 1000D Cordura, the Recycled Firefighter 24HR is built to survive everything from weekend rucks to daily carry.

For those looking for an American made bag, you’ll be pleased to know that every Recycled Firefighter backpack is made in the USA yet is available at a much cheaper price point for a lot of the same features you would find in the GR1. If a minimalist design, a clamshell opening and a hydration compartment is what you are looking for, then the Recycled Firefighter Battalion 24HR is the best GoRuck alternative on the market right now. 

• Volume: 18L

• Made in USA in small batches

• Clamshell access to main compartment

• Made of 1000D Cordura with Mil-Spec YKK zippers

• 15” laptop compartment

Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 24

The Mystery Ranch Urban Assault is easily one of the best Goruck GR1 alternatives available today thanks to its tough Cordura nylon and robust YKK zipper construction. Although not a clamshell backpack, the Urban Assault instead uses a unique 3-zip zipper design to give you customized access to the main compartment depending on how you open it. Pockets line the inside of the main compartment for convenient organization.

The Urban Assault comes in three sizes. The largest is a 24 liter version that includes a separate laptop compartment. The smaller 18 liter and 21 liter versions have the laptop compartment inside the main compartment and are great for any one who needs a tough ruck pack with a small footprint.

• Volume: 24L

• Made of 500D Cordura nylon with YKK zippers

• Special 3-zip access to main compartment

• Padded laptop compartment

Db The Ramverk Backpack

Let’s start out by saying that the Db Ramverk isn’t built to be a rucksack or a tactical backpack. Instead what we have is an urban backpack that has enough innovative features to make it a great Goruck alternative for daily carry.

A sample of these features include an open flat main compartment with internal mesh pockets, separate padded laptop compartment, aluminum hardware, external webbing for attachments and two adjustable straps for securing oversized gear to the exterior of the bag.

What makes the Db Ramverk so special is its patented ABS rib cage construction that replaces traditional foam panels. This construction allows the Ramverk to be incredibly lightweight while still providing great protection to your gear inside.

• Volume: 21L

• Also available in the larger Ramverk 26L 

• 15” Laptop Compartment

• Open flat main compartment

TOPO DESigNS DAYPACK

For those looking for a reliable American made bag for daily carry, the Topo Designs Daypack may be just the ticket. Much like Goruck, the Topo Daypack focuses on a proven minimalist design and rugged materials over flashy bells and whistles.

The Topo Designs Daypack comes in a few different tiered price options with each version getting better in quality the more you are willing to invest. The Daypack Leather is made with a tough 1000D Cordura Nylon construction while the Daypack Heritage Canvas replaces the nylon for a water repellent cotton canvas shell. Both packs feature Made in USA Horween leather bottoms for added protection and a dash of sophistication. 

• Volume: 21.6L

• Made in USA

• Made of 1000D Cordura (Daypack Leather)

• Internal sleeve fits 15” laptop

Camelbak H.A.W.G Mil Spec Crux Backpack

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The Camelbak H.A.W.G is a quality made backpack tough enough for hikes and rucks. It’s main feature is the included Mil-Spec Antidote Reservoir water delivery system that includes a 3 liter water bladder and Quick Link Hydrolock Bite Valve Adapter for easy refilling and use.

The backpack itself features 2 full length main compartments to keep your items secure and organized. The 500D Rip-Stop Cordura is water resistant and MOLLE on the front panel allows for attachment of extra gear. At 23L capacity, the Camelbak H.A.W.G is large enough for your essentials while remaining compact enough to take on a day hike or to use as a daily urban backpack. We highly recommend the Camelbak H.A.W.G to anyone looking for a cheaper quality Goruck backpack alternative for adventuring.

• Volume: 23L

• Made of 500D Rip-Stop Cordura

• Two full length compartments

• Includes a Mil Spec reservoir water bladder and exit port with tube.

5.11 Rush 12 Backpack

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The 5.11 Rush 12 backpack is a compact tactical backpack made for everyday functionality. The backpack can be broken down into 3 compartments: A roomy main compartment, a smaller bottom front compartment with organizational pockets, and the 1.5 liter hydration pocket for your water bladder. In total, the Rush 12 backpack features 16 different compartments for a variety of items and uses. This includes the fleece-lined pocket for your sunglasses and internal organizer for pens, notepads and other small items. There is no dedicated laptop compartment but a laptop up to 14 inches can easily fit in the main compartment.

The outside of the backpack features an adjustable height sternum strap as well as a contoured yoke shoulder strap system that is adjustable for a comfortable fit. You can also find MOLLE attachments along the front and sides of the exterior of the backpack for the ability to add additional items to your load.The water-resistant 1050D Nylon makes this a great backpack for commuters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

• Volume: 24L

• MOLLE attachments on both front and sides.

• Made of water resistant 1050D Nylon

• 1.5 liter hydration pocket

3V Gear Subrosa Urban Tech Backpack

3V Gear Subrosa Urban Tech backpack is a great Goruck GR1 alternative for those who want a similar minimalist design but need a backpack for more urban settings. A great feature of the Subrosa is its clamshell admin compartment that is filled with pockets for keeping your daily gear organized. Two padded laptop sleeves give you access to your tech either from the main compartment or from a separate back pocket. 

• Volume: 30L

• Materials: 500D Nylon, YKK Zippers

• Internal and external laptop sleeves are hydration and CCW compatible

• Clamshell admin compartment makes packing and organizing items easy
  

14er Tactical Backpack

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The 14er Tactical Backpack is a budget-friendly option for those looking for a backpack like Goruck on Amazon at a cheaper price point. The bag includes tons of pocket for daily carry such as a padded laptop sleeve, zippered internal organization and compression straps for days you want to keep it light.

Although the 14er Tactical Backpack runs larger than the GR1 it’s still a great option thanks to its clamshell main compartment and robust MOLLE attachments that allow you to add on gear as you need it. The 14er Tactical Backpack also makes a great CCW backpack thanks to its hook & loop rear pocket that gives you dual access to what you carry inside.

• Volume: 35L

• Clamshell access to main compartment

• MOLLE attachments throughout body

• Hydration bladder compatible

Other Brands Like GoRuck

The following brands are for anyone who loves the features of the Goruck GR1 and GR2 but are still curious about the competition. Getting to know your options before a big purchase is a must and luckily there are a few brands that rival Goruck in both quality and design. 

Like Goruck, these 3 brands offer American made backpacks with a focus on innovative design and craftsmanship. For those who value build integrity, you are going to love what the following brands have to offer.

Mystery Ranch ASAP pack

Mystery Ranch

Based in Montana, Mystery Ranch makes all of their packs in the USA. The brand has a special relationship with supplying bags for the military which started when the Mystery Branch was approached to make special packs for the Navy SEALS in 2004. Since the brand’s beginning, Mystery Ranch has been known for their dedication to quality, durability and function. 

One of our favorite bags is the Mystery Ranch ASAP pack which is the most compact version of their 3-zip series assault packs. The backpack features a unique Y zipper design that allows you to open the backpack from the top like a rucksack and down the middle so that the entire main compartment is easily accessible.

The Brown Buffalo Conceal Backpack US

The Brown Buffalo

The Brown Buffalo is an up and coming brand that focuses on design-driven packs, backpacks and travel accessories. The brand does a great job of striking a balance between style and function. 

Those who love the minimalism of Goruck bags will be impressed by The Brown Buffalo Conceal Backpack. The are two versions of the Conceal backpack; an American made version made of ballistic nylon Cordura and a slightly cheaper Water-resistant 420D Nylon version made overseas. These bags are perfect for anyone who wants a more urban backpack for everyday carry but doesn’t want to compromise on the craftsmanship and attention to detail that many tactical bag brands like Goruck provide. 

Triple Aught Design Fast Pack Litespeed

Triple Aught Design

Expertly designed. Tough as nails. Made in USA. Triple Aught Design offers some of the most thoughtfully designed American made tactical and urban carry backpacks. Their FAST Collection of backpacks offers some great options for those looking for smaller rucksacks with must-have features such as room for a hydration bladder, hip belt and plenty of MOLLE attachments. We recommend the FAST Pack Litespeed for anyone looking for a medium size rucksack at around 22L capacity.

Although more tactical than the minimalist GoRuck GR1 and GR2, Triple Aught Design’s commitment to quality makes their bags worth a closer look even if you are just looking for a casual everyday backpack with tactical features.

Criteria used for evaluation

Here is a quick rundown on how we chose the backpacks on our list. We made it a point to judge each backpack by how they compared to the Goruck GR1 in style, function and build quality.

Design

The first thing you notice when shopping for a bag is it’s style and design. Goruck has a very specific tactical minimalist style that combines the functionality of a tactical rucksack with a more toned down design. What you get is a military grade pack that can be worn just about anywhere. 

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Minimalist Style

While it can be tough to nail down Goruck’s minimal look, the backpacks on our list do a good job at keeping things simple. Each bag, with the exception of the Timbuk2 Q laptop backpack, include the typical tactical offerings of MOLLE attachments and sternum or waist straps without going overboard with too many bells and whistles that distract from their overall design. 

Bags like the Propper U.C. backpack and the Grey Ghost Gear Griff Pack are great examples of this simplicity in play. Both bags look like regular backpacks with the exception of front facing MOLLE webbing or in the case of the Grey Ghost Gear Griff pack, some tastefully placed velcro for morale patches on the front pocket.

Opens Flat Design

One of the most popular design features of Goruck backpacks is their clamshell design that allows for the main compartment to open flat. Every backpack on our Goruck GR1 Alternative list shares this clamshell design with the exception of the Camelbak H.A.W.G. and Timbuk2 Q laptop backpack.

Small Form Factor 

When it comes to rucking backpacks, the GoRuck GR1 pack is on the smaller side at only 21L and 26L respectively. All of our top picks follow in the same footsteps with the largest backpack being the Grey Ghost Gear Griff Pack at almost 30L capacity. If you are looking for a Goruck GR1 alternative on the smaller side then we recommend the Cannae Legion Day Pack that offers a 21L capacity just like the smaller Goruck GR1.

Function

Along with great design, we took a close look at the functionality each bag had to offer and how it compared to the Goruck GR1. What we found was that many backpacks had some if not all of the same functionality of the Goruck GR1 but at a cheaper price point. 

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MOLLE Attachments

The Goruck GR1 backpack features 3 rows of MOLLE webbing on the front, side and inside of the pack and additional MOLLE webbing on the shoulder straps. This allows the pack to be loaded up with additional storage and gear attachments. 

Unlike other tactical bag designs, the simple MOLLE placement on Goruck packs is a popular selling point. Goruck keeps the MOLLE attachments to a minimum while still providing plenty of options for adding gear as needed. We think that the Propper U.C. backpack and Camelbak H.A.W.G. are excellent example of bags like Goruck that keep their MOLLE webbing design simple. But if lots of MOLLE webbing is your thing, we recommend going with the 5.11 Rush 12 backpack which is fully loaded with MOLLE webbing on the front, sides and shoulder straps. 

Hydration Bladder

Goruck includes an exit port for a hydration tube in each one of their GR bags. We made sure to look for similar backpacks that support hydration bladders. If you are looking for a backpack similar to the Goruck GR1 with hydration bladder support our favorites are the Camelbak H.A.W.G. which supports a 3L water bladder and the Cannae Legion Day Pack which supports a 2L hydration bladder. 

Ruck Plate Capability

Goruck makes the rucking backpack with the GR1 pack and we made sure to look for similar bags that can hold up to the rigorous needs of a ruck event. One main feature we looked out for is each backpack’s ability to hold ruck plates. The best we have found is the Condor Frontier Outdoor pack, a smaller backpack that has a robust laptop compartment that can hold one or two plates as well as a separate water bladder compartment that can double as a ruck plate compartment. Other backpacks that can also comfortably hold ruck plates in their laptop compartments is the 5.11 Origin Pack, 5.11 Rush 12 and the Cannae Legion Day Pack.

Everyday Capability

Each of the backpacks were handpicked with everyday carry in mind. Whether you are in law enforcement or a student, the bags on this list should have the ability to carry daily items such as laptops and extra clothes. Since each backpack has some sort of MOLLE webbing or velcro attachment, those looking for a Goruck camera bag will be able to attach a camera field pocket for easy storage of camera bodies and lenses. 

Some people simply want something like a Goruck laptop bag without too many of the tactical features. In this case we recommend the Timbuk2 Q laptop backpack for the most urban carry features such as room for your laptop accessories, books, water bottles, etc.

Build and Quality

Build quality is what separates Goruck bags from other similar tactical backpacks. Goruck proudly claims their bags are “bomb proof”. This is achieved by building a bag from the ground up with the very best materials and extensive testing to make sure the bag holds up to heavy use. We chose bags that can compete with the Goruck GR1 in terms of quality but at a cheaper price point. 

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Material Durability

Goruck GR1 backpacks are made of 1000D Cordura, YKK zippers and ultra tough stitching that is strength tested at over 400lbs. Although few brands come close to Goruck’s material durability we did find some solid competitors. Both the Propper U.C. backpack and 5.11 Rush 12 are made of ultra tough 1000D and 1050D Cordura respectively. While brands like Mystery Ranch, Triple Aught Design and The Brown Buffalo all offer meticulously designed backpacks that compete with Goruck in terms of American made build quality and materials used.

Warranty

Very few brands can beat Goruck’s Scars lifetime guarantee. The guarantee covers defect in workmanship and materials on any Goruck product for life. But we did find some brands that offer impressive warranties with their backpacks. Timbuk2 and Camelbak both offer a lifetime warranty on all of their bags and backpacks. Cannae offers a 1 year warranty with each of their bags. 

Availability

Lastly, a big factor in which backpacks to include in this Goruck backpack alternative list was whether or not each bag was easily available in stores or online. Goruck backpacks are not currently available on Amazon, but we made sure to include Amazon available bags. If Amazon isn’t your thing than you’ll be pleased to know that these bags are also available on each manufacturer’s website respectively. We made sure not to include any special edition backpacks that had limited runs and instead focused on staple designs from each brand we featured.

10 Backpacks Similar to Herschel Supply Co

Looking for backpacks similar to Herschel? We've done the research to introduce to you a few awesome brands that offer Looking for backpacks similar to Herschel? We've done the research to introduce to you a few awesome brands that offer backpacks and bags like Herschel Supply Co. 

Herschel bags are known for their throwback designs that are as stylish as they are timeless. With many of their designs drawing inspiration from old-school mountaineering and hiking gear, it’s no surprise that the brand has blown up in the midst of an era where people yearn for more authentic products.

But Herschel isn’t the only game in town. Other brands have also stepped up their game and now offer backpacks like Herschel that rival the brand in both design and price. Whether you are looking for cheaper alternatives or something a little more unique, brands like Kamp, Kavu and Burton have you covered. Keep reading to find out which backpacks made our list and where to buy them.

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Brands like Herschel Supply Co

Herschel is known for their ‘Heritage’ designs which combines classic styles with modern simplicity. When looking for other brands like Herschel Supply Co we were excited to find a mix of larger and lesser known brands that make backpacks similar to Herschel. Here are a few brands that you should check out.

Topo Designs Packs & Bags

Topo Designs is best known for their fun outdoor gear and heritage-style backpacks. Their bags are great for anyone looking for a versatile pack for travel, school and outdoor activities with a focus on high-grade materials and construction. If classic heritage design is what you want, then you won’t be disappointed by this Herschel backpack alternative.

One of our favorites is the Topo Designs Rover Pack that combines functional daily carry with the ruggedness you have come to expect from a dedicated outdoor day pack. Perfect for the city or trail, the Rover Pack features heavy-duty YKK zippers and durable nylon pack cloth for the perfect water resistant backpack for college, urban commuting or weekend trips.

United By Blue Backpacks

United By Blue is a brand that focuses on sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing for the gear that drive life’s greatest adventures. Their stylish backpacks are perfect for school, commuting or to use for outdoor activities.

United By Blue makes some of the best Herschel backpack alternatives for those who want an outdoor-inspired bag that is as stylish as it is functional. Made with high quality materials, you can expect to find United By Blue backpacks to be made out of water repellent materials such as recycled polyester and waxed canvas and with real leather details and aluminum hardware.

Altogether United By Blue is a great brand to check out if you are looking for backpacks similar to Herschel with a focus on ethical sourcing.

Jansport Backpacks

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Few backpack brands are as iconic as Jansport. Although known for their simple backpack designs, Jansport has grown into a power brand that offers a large array of backpacks from everyday casual school bags to heritage-inspired backpacks that are adventure ready. If you are looking for brands like Herschel Supply Co that aren’t Herschel, then make sure to give Jansport a shot.

One of our favorite Herschel alternatives is the Jansport Superbreak. It’s classic design rivals the Herschel Pop Quiz backpack in both build and price. And when it comes to choice, Jansport pulls no stops with almost two dozen different colors so you can find the perfect aesthetic backpack for school. Coming in at a more affordable price, the Jansport Superbreak is perfect for anyone looking for bags like Herschel but cheaper. 

Burton Bags and Backpacks

Burton is a brand that specializes in snowboarding gear and apparel but has since expanded to include everyday carry bags and luggage. The brand’s design inspiration lies in the outdoors and alternative sports. From the snow covered slopes to the skatepark, Burton offers bags that are functional, stylish and seeped in a culture of adventure. 

We like the Burton Tinder backpack because of it’s rucksack style design that rivals many Herschel Supply Co. bags in looks and functionality. Inside you’ll find a padded laptop compartment and a generous 25L main compartment that’s perfect for school or everyday carry. The Burton Tinder comes in dozens of different color combinations so you are sure to find one that fits your style. If you are looking for alternative brands that offer bags like Herschel, then give Burton a try.

Day Owl Backpacks

While Herschel backpacks are known for their popularity and style, the Day Owl backpack offers a superior alternative. The Day Owl backpack shares similarities with Herschel backpacks in terms of minimalistic aesthetics, but it surpasses them in functionality and sustainability.

What sets the Day Owl backpack apart from Herschel is their commitment to sustainability. With its carefully curated materials and design, the Day Owl backpack prioritizes eco-friendly practices, making it a superior choice for those seeking a backpack that combines functionality, style, and environmental consciousness.

Backpacks like Herschel Little America

The Little America backpack is one of Herschel’s most popular designs to date. It’s a great backpack for taking on hikes or for those long days in the city. This versatility is what makes the Little America backpack one of our favorites. Here we handpick backpacks like Herschel Little America from four different brands that we love.

Fjallraven Rucksack

Fjallraven is most likely the most popular brand on the list. Their Kanken backpack is a best seller and used by outdoor lovers and students alike. Fjallraven’s Rucksack takes the outdoor vibes to the next level with a more classic outdoor backpack design. This backpack comes in a ton of different colors as well as different sizes. You can choose from the small, medium and larger versions depending on your needs.

Patagonia Arbor Lid Pack

The Patagonia Arbor Lid backpack is a great Herschel alternative for anyone looking for a similar Little America style that’s jammed packed with carry features. Patagonia specializes in outdoor and everyday carry backpacks and it shows with the Arbor Classic’s heritage design and carefully placed pockets for easy access to essentials. At 28 liters, the Patagonia Arbor Lid is the perfect go-to size for everything from school to day hikes!

Duluth Roll-Top Scout Pack 

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Duluth offers a high quality backpack with their Roll-Top Scout backpack. This backpack is proudly made in the USA of the finest construction: heavy duty 15oz canvas, riveted leather reinforcements, and durable cotton shoulder straps.

Unlike the Herschel Little America backpack, the Scout is a true rolltop top loading backpack. The rolltop stays securely tucked in thanks to it’s quality leather straps and metal hardware. No magnetic fasteners here! We recommend this backpack to anyone looking for a high quality Herschel backpack alternative.

Osprey Arcane Roll Top Backpack

Although the Herschel Little America is great backpack, it always left something to be desired when it came to pockets and organization. Where are the water bottle pockets? And it would be nice if there was a small pocket for easy-to-lose items like Airpods.

The Osprey Arcane Roll Top gives you a similar throwback look but includes the pockets you need to conquer a busy day. A sleek hidden water bottle pocket, a front quick-stash pocket, and even a small stretch pocket on the shoulder strap for small items like earbuds or a Metro card. This backpack is like a feature-packed Herschel Little America for those who are serious about organizing their daily gear.

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Herschel look alike backpacks

Vaschy is a brand that has grown in popularity as of recently and it’s easy to see why. They make affordable backpacks in familiar styles. Their Herschel look alike backpacks come close to the original in looks but are only a third of the price. If you want a much cheaper Herschel alternative then these backpacks may be worth a try.

Vaschy DayPack

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Vaschy’s Day Pack is an affordable Little America alternative. They share many of the same features like magnetic snap closure to the main compartment, padded shoulder straps and an internal sleeve for laptops up to 15 inches. The only real aesthetic difference you will notice is that the leather straps are shorter on the Vaschy Day Pack than on the Herschel Little America backpack.

Vaschy Classic Backpack

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The Vaschy Classic Backpack is a Herschel look alike backpack that is perfect for anyone looking for a simple everyday carry backpack with minimal bells and whistles. Like their other bags, the Vaschy logo label sits neatly on the bottom right corner of the bag. It’s simple silhouette and color schemes gives the backpack a classic heritage look that won’t go out of style anytime soon.

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