We Tested the Best Urban Backpacks in 2024
If you are looking for an urban backpack than chances are you want something that’s a little bit different that what you would find at the local sporting goods store.
This is why we decided to make a list of our favorite backpacks that focus on urban carry for those with busy lifestyles in the concrete jungle.
These backpacks aren’t for hiking or extended travel - instead we focus on urban EDC backpacks with must-have features for commuting around the city and sleek styles that are anything but boring.
What is an Urban Backpack?
An urban backpack is a type of backpack designed for everyday carry in the city and carry-on travel. Intended to keep you comfortable and your gear protected, these backpacks do best in crowded city streets, public transportation and airport terminals.
These backpacks are usually smaller than big travel bags and are designed to be practical for everyday use. Our ideal carrying capacity for an urban backpack is between 20 and 30 liters but you can follow our backpack size guide to find the best size for you. But in general, we kept our suggestions within the 20-30L range. When it comes to design, you can expect an urban backpack to look sleek and stylish with modern profiles and materials.
How We Picked and Tested
Everyday Organization
Keys, wallet, phone and tech. The perfect backpack for urban carry has enough pockets to keep you organized day in and day out. We focused on backpacks with small pockets for essentials, a water bottle holder and easy access to your most important stuff.
And no urban backpack would be complete without a padded laptop sleeve.
Shown above: Inside the Troubadour Pioneer backpack
High Quality
Our focus in this buying guide is on high quality backpacks that are rugged enough for daily use. With that said, we tried to avoid cheap bags.
Listen, there is nothing wrong with a cheapo bag from Amazon (some of them aren't bad). But we would rather concentrate on great quality backpacks made from tough materials that won't fall apart in a few months. Ballistic nylon, cotton canvas and waterproof fabrics are more our style.
Water Resistance
Living in the city means dealing with unpredictable weather, which is why having a water-resistant backpack is important. Whether you are looking for a waterproof backpack for college or a bag to keep you dry during commuters - a water-resistant backpack will give you the peace of mind you need. We tried to focus on the best city backpacks made with waterproof fabrics and rainproof zippers.
Show above: The water resistant Able Carry Daily Plus backpack
Comfortable Commuting
Having a comfortable backpack is essential for those commuting to work, school, or running errands in the city. We looked for well-padded backpack straps and breathable back panels for comfort during daily commutes. Larger backpacks should also have a sternum strap to help with weight distribution of heavy loads.
Best Urban Backpacks and Daypacks
The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack
When we think of "urban backpacks" THIS is the bag that comes to mind. Made with a tough weatherproof construction, the Ridge Commuter is more than meets the eye. Inside you find a main compartment that is lined with almost a dozen pockets for organizing your everyday carry. Some great ones include a power bank pocket and a tiny secret pocket for an Apple Airtag. Add in a shock-resistant laptop compartment and and you have the best best urban EDC backpack for busy days in the city.
Check out our Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack review for more details
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Specs:
Capacity: 20L
Materials: 900D Nylon, YKK Aquaguard Zippers
15" laptop compartment
Features that make the Commuter a great urban daypack
Weatherproof construction (highly water resistant exterior + YKK Aquaguard zippers)
Secret pocket for bluetooth tracker (Apple Airtag or Tile device)
Tons of pockets for EDC (everyday carry)
An Urban Laptop Backpack for Tech Carry
The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof backpack is a great choice for city life, especially on rainy days, thanks to it's water-resistant construction. The bag is made with water-resistant nylon. And each compartment is protected with water-resistant YKK Aquaguard zippers.
The Commuter is a slim 20L backpack, which helps keep down the bulk. Overall, the Ridge Commuter backpack is perfect for navigating crowded places like buses and trains in the city. It keeps your belongings safe, organized, and protected, making it a great choice for everyday urban life.
If you want the backpack with the most pockets, then the Ridge Commuter backpack is the one for you. Unlike larger backpacks, the focus here is on organization of daily essentials. Inside there are pockets for pens, notebooks, cables, and other small items. The outside gives you even more pockets, including a hidden security pocket for valuables. The shock-proof 15” laptop compartment can be found against the back panel. This laptop compartment is lined with cushioned felt material to protect against bumps and drops.
The North Face Recon
The North Face has always offered solid backpacks and the Recon is no exception. One underrated design feature on the Recon is its great organization. There are a ton of smaller compartments for everything from pens, water bottles, tech accessories and chargers to keep you both organized and sane on busy days.
The North Face Recon is available in both men’s and women’s versions for the perfect fit. We explore the details in our North Face Recon review.
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Specs:
Capacity: 30L
Materials: Nylon ripstop, polyester
Weight: 2lbs 9oz
Padded laptop sleeve: up to 15" device
Features that make the Recon a great urban backpack
15” laptop compartment and separate tablet sleeve
Lots of smaller pockets for EDC
Large 30-liter main compartment that’s perfect for running errands, work, school or the gym.
One Backpack for Work and Play
The North Face Recon is a spacious city backpack with a 30-liter main compartment, making it larger than most small urban daypacks. This means it's perfect for various purposes like work, school, going to the gym, or even traveling.
The North Face Recon is loved by many as a school book bag because it has a roomy main compartment, a separate laptop sleeve, and useful organizer pockets. But it's not just for school – it's also a great backpack for daily use in the city. The sleek design and comfortable features make it enjoyable to use during commutes.
The North Face Recon is incredibly versatile. You can use it to carry your gym gear, take it on weekend trips, or even use it to store camera equipment. It has a special compartment for organizing your gadgets and everyday essentials. You can even attach larger items like a camera tripod or a picnic blanket using the bottom utility straps. The possibilities are endless with this backpack!
Able Carry Daily Plus
The Able Carry Daily Plus is one of the best laptop backpacks we tested for urban wear in the city. It's highly water resistant, has great pockets and is wrapped in a sleek design. With a 21L capacity, it provides enough space for organizing your essentials, making it perfect for everyday use. The clean and minimalist design adds a touch of style, seamlessly allowing you to go from work to play.
For more details, check out our Able Carry Daily Plus backpack review.
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Specs:
Capacity: 21L
Materials: Waterproof X-Pac, YKK Aquaguard Zippers
Weight: 2.6lbs
16" laptop sleeve + 11" tablet sleeve
What makes the Daily Backpack a great urban backpack
High quality water resistant materials
Hidden water bottle pocket
Special “A-Frame” webbing allows backpack to keep its shape and keeps you looking sharp
Lots of exterior pockets and even more internal pockets
Built for Urban Carry
The Able Carry Daily Plus backpack is a perfect choice for wearing in the city because it has great features and a simple design. The 21 liter size is perfect for carrying daily essentials. We found that we could fit items like a few notebooks, a jacket and our tech with some room to spare.
This backpack is also one of the most comfortable backpacks we have tested. The backpack straps are very cushioned. And the back panel features supportive foam panels for breathability and support.
The Daily Plus backpack is slightly bigger than Able Carry's Daily Backpack. It has more pockets, better organization but with the same classic design. If choosing between the two, go with the Daily Plus.
Chrome Barrage Cargo
The Chrome Barrage Cargo is one of the toughest commuter backpacks on the market. It's waterproof, so your stuff stays dry even in the worst weather. Our favorite feature is the cargo net on the outside. It gives you extra storage for stuff like bike helmet, shoes, or bags from unexpected shopping trips. The roll top also allows you to use the Barrage Cargo as an expandable backpack to add more room inside by unrolling the top.
We have to be honest and say that this isn't an urban laptop backpack. In fact, there isn't even a padded laptop sleeve. Instead this is a backpack for those who need a tough-as-nails waterproof bag over a backpack with a million pockets. It's a commuter bag for those who value simplicity over marketing gimmicks.
For a closer look, check out our Chrome Barrage Cargo review.
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Specs:
Capacity: 18L
Materials: 1050D Nylon and waterproof TPE tarp
Weight: 3lbs
Padded laptop sleeve: None
Features that make the Barrage Cargo a great urban backpack
Welded waterproof tarp liner makes the main compartment completely waterproof
Cargo net allows for extra storage of bulky items
Rolltop main compartment expands from 18-22 liters as needed
Chrome seatbelt chest strap (it's fun to use!)
Built for the Daily Grind
Although we made sure to feature the best urban laptop backpacks, we had to make the exception with the Chrome Barrage Cargo. The Chrome Barrage Cargo does not have a padded laptop sleeve, instead it's just one big waterproof bucket for your stuff. No laptop compartment. No million pockets for school supplies. Just a good reliable roll top backpack.
But we had to include the Barrage Cargo for its construction. It's tough and reliable.
The outer shell of the Barrage Cargo is made of rugged 1050D nylon, and the inside of the main compartment is lined with a heavy-weight waterproof tarp. The shoulder straps can be adjusted with metal buckles, not plastic. Add in Chrome's signature seat-belt sternum strap buckle and better control over weight distribution with heavy loads. If this backpack ever does fall apart (doubt), Chrome has you covered with a lifetime guarantee.
Troubadour Pioneer Backpack
Troubadour does two thing very well: water resistance and comfort. They also have amazing pockets. Ok, so it does three things very well.
The Troubadour Pioneer can be best described as a jack of all trades. It's a sleek backpack for business days. A gym bag when you need it thanks to its bottom shoe compartment. And most of all, the highly water resistant urban backpack you've been looking for.
We can't express how nice Troubadour bags feel in person. There is something about the vegan leather trim and soft lining in the pockets that give it a certain je ne sais quoi. We wrote a Troubadour Pioneer review if you want a closer look at the details.
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Specs:
Capacity: 23.5L
Materials: Recycled polyester, vegan leather trim
Weight: 2.4lbs
Padded laptop sleeve: Up to 16" laptop
Features that make the Pioneer a great urban daypack
16” laptop sleeve
Very water resistant construction
Lots of small pockets inside for organization
Side pockets for water bottles and other essentials
Bottom compartment for shoes or extra clothing
Sleek & Stylish
It would be impossible to list all of the different features the Troubadour Pioneer offers in a short blurb. So you will have to take our word for it that this backpack can do it all.
First of all, this backpack compact at only 23.5 liters that doesn't give you the bulky profile of bigger backpacks. This is a huge plus if you find yourself navigating crowded areas in the city. But what it lacks in size it makes up in organization. If you need a backpack with a spot for everything, then this is the backpack for you. There are plenty internal pockets for every thing from a phone to tech chargers. The outside of the bag also gives you two water bottle holders and extra pockets for small items like a phone or wallet. Pair these features with waterproof zippers and you have the perfect urban daypack.
DB THE RAMVERK Backpack
The Db Ramverk is a clamshell backpack designed for urban creatives. What sets the Ramverk apart is its special lay-flat main compartment, which makes it easy to pack large items clothes or a camera cube. Inside, there are also mesh pockets to help you stay organized with small items.
As a commuter bag, the Db Ramverk is incredibly stylish. It has soft adjustable shoulder straps for all-day comfort. Additionally, the bag is made of PU leather with metal hardware, which gives it a handsome appearance that matches well with life in the city.
We tested the Db Ramverk 21L and found it to be a great size for daily carry. But it also comes in a larger 26L and 26L Pro for even more storage. Check the orange Db link above for options.
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Specs:
Capacity: 21L (also available in 26L)
Materials: Water resistant 600D polyester and PU leather
15" laptop compartment
Features that make the Ramverk a great urban daypack
Clamshell backpack easy packing and unpacking
PU leather exterior, metal buckles and slim profile gives this backpack an upscale look
Lightweight thanks to Db’s rib cage construction
Compression straps on the front for storing extra items like a jacket
Laptop sleeve in separate compartment for easy access
A Lightweight Urban Laptop Daypack
The Db Ramverk features a unique design that can be best described as part lux designer bag and part tactical city backpack. On one hand, you have a PU leather exterior and aluminum metal hardware which gives it high end feel. But then there are sports elements like exterior straps and hooks for Db modular hook-up system.
As an urban laptop backpack, Db includes a separate padded laptop compartment that was designed to fit a up to a 15” Macbook Pro. Chargers, cables and tech accessories can all be stored inside the numerous mesh pockets that line the main compartment.
One feature that Db doesn’t get enough credit for is their innovative rib cage construction that allows for a lightweight and slim backpack without compromising on internal packing room. Instead of traditional foam padding, Db uses ABS “ribs” that are not only much lighter than traditional panels but also provides great protection to the inside of the bag.
tomtoc TechPack-T73 X-Pac Laptop Backpack
A larger backpack for those who need to carry more. The tomtoc TechPack-T73 can be divided into two compartments: the tech compartment and the massive 30-liter main compartment opens nice and wide for easy packing of bulky items. Inside the tech compartment you'll find a 16-inch laptop sleeve and separate table sleeve.
There is nothing worse than trying to find small items inside a dark pack. tomtoc solves this by lining the inside with a bright orange fabric so that you can quickly spot your items. Combine these clever little details with super comfortable adjustable shoulder straps and you have one of the best city backpacks on the market today.
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Specs:
Capacity: 30L
Materials: X-Pac, 1680D Nylon
Padded sleeves fit 16" Macbook and 12.9" tablet
Almost a dozen pockets for organization
Features that make the TechPack-T73 a great city backpack
Large open main compartment for bulky items
Lots of pockets for organization
Thick padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap
Tech compartment with padded laptop and tablet sleeves
An Innovative Urban Daypack
What sets the tomtoc TechPack-T73 apart from other urban daypacks is its great pocket placement and emphasis on comfort. This combination of features makes it one of the best backpacks for city life.
We really like the variety of external pockets on this backpack. The front panel is made from X-pac, a waterproof fabric, and the front pockets are equipped with water resistant zippers for a one-two combo of protection from rain. These front pockets make it super easy to stash away items when you are on the move. Other external pockets include a water bottle holder and a zippered side pocket for protecting small items like earbuds, a wallet or phone. Everywhere you look, the tomtoc TechPack-T73 has a pocket or compartment.
As for comfort, we are very impressed with the adjustable shoulder straps on the tomtoc TechPack-T73. They are thick and wide so that you can comfortably carry heavy loads. tomtoc has really upped their game for this backpack and we are pleased with the results!
Day Owl Backpack
The Day Owl backpack is an excellent choice for urban wear in the city due to its impressive features and waxed canvas construction. With a minimalist exterior, it offers a sleek and stylish look that complements any outfit. However, its true value lies in its functionality and practicality. The backpack provides a spacious 21 liters of storage capacity with carefully designed exterior pockets to keep your stuff organized. It includes a 16" padded laptop pocket, ensuring the safety of your tech during your urban adventures.
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Specs:
Capacity: 21L
Materials: Recycled waxed cotton canvas
Weight: 2.4lbs
16" laptop sleeve
Features that make the Day Owl a great urban backpack:
High quality canvas construction that looks better as it ages
Slim profile and hidden pockets are great for crowded spaces
Secret spill-resistant water bottle pocket
An eco-friendly daily commuter backpack
The Day Owl was designed with sustainability in mind. Their waxed canvas, lining and trim is akk made from recycled materials. Even their YKK zippers are from a sustainable source. But what not many people know about Day Owl is that all of their bags are repairable. The brand understands that the most sustainable impact is in offering a product that lasts.
What we like best about the Day Owl backpack is the wide variety of semi-hidden exterior pockets. Examples include a side pocket for your phone, a small pocket on the top for sunglasses, and a hidden pocket for your water bottle. This pockets give you a clean look on business days but still allows for great organization. For your tech, Day Owl offers a seperate compartment for a 16" laptop in the back.
Troubadour Apex Backpack
The Trouabour Apex has long been one of our favorite men's backpacks for work but it has grown on us as an urban daypack for laptop carry. The unique design is so easy to dress up for a work meeting or dress down to meet with friends. Either way, you'll look your best.
Along with a ton of pockets inside the main compartment, the Apex gifts you with a separate compartment for easy access to your laptop and tech. The backpack also has lots of exterior pockets, which are really handy for keeping your things organized. And don't worry about rainy days - this backpack is designed to be highly water-resistant, so your belongings will stay dry even in bad weather.
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Specs:
Capacity: 25L
Weight: 2.2lbs
Materials: Water resistant recycled polyester, vegan leather
17" laptop compartment
Features that make the Apex a great city backpack
Sleek minimalist design
Highly water resistant
Lots of pockets for organization (both inside and out for quick access)
Massive 17" laptop compartment
Minimalist style with zero compromise
The Troubadour Apex backpack is one of our favorite men’s work backpacks and it’s easy to why. The minimalist design and slim profile makes it office-appropriate and the various carry features are great for items like tech, paperwork and smaller personal items.
As an urban daypack, the Troubadour Apex packs a punch with a 25 liter main compartment that gives you enough room for everything from daily errands to and weekend travel.
What we love most about the Apex is its great pocket placement. Along with a few very sneaky outer pockets, the Apex is also gives you a padded compartment for a 16-inch laptop and loads of smaller pockets inside the main compartment to keep you organized.
All of these features are encased in a lightweight waterproof fabric with waterproof zippers and internal lining for extra protection. The ergonomically shaped padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel also make for comfortable carry day in and day out.
Troubadour is a brand out of the UK but they offer worldwide shipping. They even offer free shipping to the United States for orders over $100.
BLACK EMBER SHADOW
A minimalist style with waterproof zippers, the Black Ember Shadow is one of the best urban daypacks available right now. The quick access front pocket allows you to charge your phone on the go while the internal organization saves a spot for your laptop, tablet and accessories thanks to the Shadow’s built-in tech kit.
The Black Ember Shadow is available in 22L and 26L sizes for the perfect fit.
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Features that make the Shadow a great urban daypack
Waterproof construction (waterproof zippers + textiles)
Lay-flat clamshell main compartment for easy organization
Tech-focused pockets for EDC (everyday carry)
A Waterproof Urban Daypack
Keeping your expensive tech safe from life’s mishaps is a big deal and Black Ember has you covered on a couple of fronts. First, their padded laptop and tablet compartments are suspended for protection from bumps and drops. Second, this backpack is as waterproof as backpacks come.
The Shadow is made from HTX - Black Ember’s own high performance waterproof fabric. This fabric repels water away from the bag and prevents moisture from seeping in. Black Ember also sticks with best-in-class YKK Aquaguard zippers and uses Bond-Stitch construction to seal the seams.
Available in 22L and 26L versions, the Black Ember Shadow is best suited as an urban daypack for those who need a compact bag without too much bulk. The slim profile and minimalist exterior makes it a great choice for city work commuting.
Boundary Supply Errant Pack
Packed with over a dozen modular features, the Boundary Supply Errant is a modular backpack for urban exploration that can be dialed in as needed to fit to your most important items. This is possible with the various magnetic docks for quick attachment of accessories.
A clamshell main compartment gives you full access to the pockets inside while a hidden bottom shoe compartment transforms the Errant into a gym or travel bag in seconds. Other great features include the ability to add modular camera inserts and even a second laptop sleeve.
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Features that make the Errant Pack a great urban backpack
Dual access main compartment (top-loading or lay-flat)
Zippered bottom compartment for shoes, laundry or wet items
Comfort - molded foam back panel keeps you cool
Modular accessories available for photography, work and extra storage
An Urban Exploration Backpack with Modular Features
Although the Boundary Supply Errant can be used with a variety of modular accessories, the standalone Errant backpack is a great option for anyone who values daily organization. This is thanks to its various pockets and compartments that line the inside and outside of the bag.
A sample of pockets include a 15” laptop sleeve with auto-locking magnetic closure, a bottom shoes/laundry compartment, a soft-lined external glasses pocket and a hidden RFID pocket for a passport or wallet. These features and more are why the Boundary Supply Errant Pack makes the best urban exploration backpack for commuters, photographers and travelers alike.
Our Top 5 Urban Backpack Brands
After reviewing and testing hundreds of bags, we have settled on a few of our favorite urban backpack brands. These brands consistently offer a great quality and really unique designs that cater to urban carry. From rainy days in London to riding the metro in NYC - these brands have you covered.
Able Carry
Able Carry is a brand that specializes in creating backpacks designed for urban life. Based in Hong Kong, Able Carry offers worldwide shipping with a lifetime warranty, allowing customers from all around the globe to enjoy their products. With a strong emphasis on comfort, organization, and the use of high-quality materials, Able Carry ensures that their backpacks are reliable companions for your daily adventures.
Troubadour
Troubadour offers thoughtfully designed bags to seamlessly fit into stylish urban lifestyles. With an emphasis on upscale, sleek, and fashionable designs, Troubadour backpacks elevate your look while providing functionality. A standout feature of Troubadour backpacks is their water-resistant designs, ensuring your belongings stay dry even in unpredictable weather. The brand also prides itself on innovative designs that push the boundaries of traditional backpacks, incorporating unique features and thoughtful details.
Timbuk2
Timbuk2 is a brand that dedicated to crafting city backpacks designed for urban commuters and nomads. Since its founding in 1989, the brand has been dedicated to creating commuter backpacks that cater to the needs of city dwellers. What sets Timbuk2 apart is their commitment to sustainability and durability. Their bags come with a lifetime warranty and are repairable, and they have a dedicated repair team in San Francisco to fix any wear and tear, ensuring your bag stays functional and reliable for years to come. With Timbuk2, you can invest in a reliable and long-lasting urban companion for your everyday adventures.
Chrome Industries
Chrome Industries offers some of the toughest commuter bags on the market. Made with durable materials, Chrome bags are built to withstand the challenges of city commuting and everyday use. With over 25 years of experience, Chrome Industries has become a trusted name in the industry, delivering functional and reliable bags for urban wear. Each Chrome bag comes with a lifetime warranty and you can usually grab free shipping over $100 in the United States.
Black Ember
Black Ember is a brand that specializes in creating backpacks specifically tailored for urban living. Their designs are meticulously crafted to cater to the needs of city dwellers, combining functionality and style seamlessly. What sets Black Ember apart is their commitment to unique designs waterproof construction. Each backpack is a testament to their attention to detail and dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional designs.
While Black Ember backpacks may come with a higher price tag, they represent a premium investment in quality, durability, and style. These backpacks are built to withstand the rigors of urban life and make a statement with their exceptional craftsmanship.
More Helpful Resources
Guide to Waterproof Fabrics (Camotrek)
Rolltop vs Zipper Backpack - Visual Guide
How Big is a 30 Liter Backpack - Visual Guide
How Big is a 20 Liter Backpack? - Visual Guide
