We Tested the Best Backpacks for Gym and Work in 2024

Finding the perfect gym and work backpack can feel a lot like looking for a needle in a haystack. You’ll need a functional bag for your daily essentials, like a laptop and business items, while still having enough room for bulky workout gear like a change of clothes and shoes. 

Although you could just use a regular gym bag with a laptop compartment, most can look too sporty and out of place for an office. Needless to say, the perfect bag that transitions smoothly from work to the gym is a tall order. The truth is that many backpack brands struggle to provide that perfect blend of work-appropriate style and gym-friendly functionality.

That's why we tested and researched dozens of bags and put together a list of the best backpacks for both work and workouts available right now.

How We Chose These Backpacks

Shown above left to right:

1. Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack - water-resistant gym and work backpack

2. Troubadour Pioneer - office backpack with shoe compartment

3. tomtoc TechPack-T73 - laptop backpack with roomy main compartment

4. King Kong EDGE - tough gym bag with laptop compartment and separate organization

Stylish Enough For Work

Although gym bags are great for an active lifestyle, they might not be the best choice when you have to look your best at work. We focused on backpacks that not only have ample space for all your gear, but look good too. Although many gym bags have a laptop compartment, few would ever look good in a professional setting. Loud colors, sporty designs and duffel bags is usually what's readily available. But who wants to carry a bulky duffel bag to work? We tried to look for backpacks that struck a nice balance between style and function.

Shown Above: Able Carry Max Backpack with gym and work compartments

Dedicated Compartments

Let's face it, no one wants to store their sweaty clothes next to their laptop. This is why we focused on backpacks that feature separate compartments for work and gym essentials. Many of the backpacks we tested include a separate shoe compartment that can also be used for storing dirty gym clothes. Bonus points were given to bags with dedicated packing compartments and interior mesh pockets for your smaller gym accessories. We also focused on backpacks with access to a padded laptop compartment and external pockets that are separate than the main compartment. This allows you to keep everything organized in its own place.

Shown Above: Knack Pack Series 2 expandable backpack

Quality and Comfort

We carefully tested and handpicked backpacks that are great quality and left out the bags that didn't make the cut. Elements like water-resistant fabrics, YKK zippers and a shoe compartment or a wet pocket were considered when testing.

Any backpack you will be lugging around all day has to be comfortable. We are talking about breathable mesh back panels, adjustable shoulder straps, and a sternum strap for great weight distribution. All of these features add up to a comfortable pack. Whether you drive to work or use public transportation, we made sure these backpacks are built for the journey.

Best Backpacks for Gym and Work

Troubadour Pioneer Backpack

The Troubadour Pioneer is a sophisticated backpack that looks like anything but your average gym bag. But it's hidden shoe compartment opens up a whole new world of possibilities. At it's heart, the Pioneer is an urban backpack with a soft-lined 16" laptop pocket and interior pockets for organizing daily items. The separate compartment on the bottom is just there when you need it on gym days. Not only is it ventilated but it's lined with an anti-microbial fabric to minimize smells from shoes and sweaty clothes.

If you usually pack more than what the 23.5 liter Pioneer can offer than we recommend you check out the 34 liter Troubadour Aero Backpack which has a lot of the same great features.

For an in-depth look at the Pioneer, check out our Troubadour Pioneer backpack review.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 23.5L

• Favorite feature: Ventilated bottom shoe compartment

• 16" laptop sleeve

• Lots of interior pockets for organization

• Water bottle side pockets

ABle Carry Max

Able Carry offers some amazing laptop backpacks, but their large 30-liter Max backpack is the model we recommend to those looking for a high quality work and gym bag. The Max offers tons of great features but our favorites have to be the hidden water bottle side pocket and lockable zippers.

What makes the Able Carry Max special is its compartments. The large main compartment gives you ample space for bulkier gym kits. Think of stuff like a change of clothes, shoes or even boxing gloves. But for long days at the office there is a separate compartment for work essentials. The rear compartment offers a 17" laptop sleeve and tons of pockets for your smaller items. There are even a couple of hidden pockets to keep valuables safe during workouts.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 30L

• Favorite feature: hidden water bottle pocket for a sleeker look at work

• Dedicated “work” compartment with padded laptop sleeve and admin pockets

• Main “packing” compartment for gym items

• High quality construction: waterproof X-Pac, cordura nylon fabric, YKK zippers

Modern Dayfarer Dayfarer V2

Designed to seamlessly go from work to gym, the Dayfarer V2 by Modern Dayfarer proves that you can have a functional bag that does it all. What we love about this backpack is that you can enter the main compartment in two ways: through the top lid for quick access or unzip the side zippers for full clamshell access.

Although the main compartment opens nice and wide to give you easy access to your workout gear, it's the exterior pockets that give the Dayfarer V2 edge. Along the outside of the bag there are pockets for everything from a water bottle, keys, phone and wallet. The bottom of the pack even features a ventilated shoe compartment that can double as separate compartment for sweaty clothes and towels. And an external laptop compartment is protected with water resistant zippers for peace of mind on rainy days.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 24L

• Favorite feature: Breathable padded mesh back panel and shoulder straps

• Ventilated bottom shoe compartment

• 16" laptop compartment

• Amazing quality: Water-repellent fabric, magnetic buckles, YKK Aquaguard zippers

Knack Pack Series 2 Expandable Backpack

The Knack Pack Series 2 is both a sleek bag for professional days and a large backpack for workout days. Don't be fooled by its minimalist design, the inside is packed with separate compartments for work, gym and travel. The internal pockets on this pack are incredible! You have a massive outer compartment with lots of pockets for easy access to small items. While the roomy main compartment neatly stores bulkier work items like a lunch box or jacket.

This expandable backpack has a hidden packing compartment that can be used for shorter trips or gym gear. The inside lining is made with an anti-microbial fabric to prevent the inside fresh from wet clothes and stinky shoes. If that wasn't enough, the Knack Pack Series 2 allows you to carry it in different ways. Tuck in the shoulder straps and you have a sleek briefcase on days you need to look more professional.

Need help deciding between Knack Packs? Check out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison. Spoiler: they both make great gym and work backpacks.

Key Features:

• Capacity: Available in Small (27L), Medium (35L) and Large (46L)

• Favorite feature: Hidden expandable packing compartment for gym/travel

• Made with water-resistant nylon

• Hidden side water bottle pocket

• Convertible: Backpack to briefcase

Stubble & Co The Kit Bag

The Stubble & Co Kit Bag is our top pick for those looking for a large gym bag that seamlessly transitions from work to workout. With a roomy 42-liter packing capacity, this bag ensures you have ample space for all your gym essentials and more. We like that it can double as bag for after-work pickup games or as a travel bag for the occasional weekend getaway.

But what truly sets the Kit Bag apart is its adaptability. With interchangeable straps, you can quickly switch between a backpack or gym duffel bag for the best look in any situation. The water-resistant minimalist design is also as sleek as it is functional. Most of the pockets are either hidden or internal. As a result you get a clean look on the outside while still having those essential pockets, like a dedicated compartment for a laptop and an internal water bottle pocket. In additional, a bottom compartment for shoes or wet clothes makes easy work of keeping soiled items separated. Whether it’s a gym day or travel day, the Stubble & Co Kit Bag was truly designed to compliment active lifestyles.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 42L

• Convertible: Backpack to duffel bag

• Dedicated shoe pocket

• 16" laptop compartment

Db Hugger Backpack

Designed for hauling bulky gear, the Db Hugger offers a versatile way to carry your gym and work items in one complete package. This clamshell backpack allows for easy packing of your gym items. The outside of the pack gives you access to a padded laptop compartment and exterior pocket on the top for quick access to essentials like keys, wallet, phone and pens.

We love the Db Hugger as a gym bag with a laptop compartment that is sleek enough to take to work. It's missing side water bottle pockets and a million external pockets but it makes up for it in interior pockets. The main compartment is lined with interior mesh pockets and the large main compartment is perfect for bulky workout gear. Don't be fooled by the minimalist exterior, there are plenty of spots to organize small items.

Key Features:

• Roomy 30L main compartment for the gym or travel

• Favorite feature: Db’s protective rib cage construction allow for more internal packing room without the bulk

• Padded 16” laptop compartment with side-access

• Clamshell main compartment for easy-packing

King Kong EDGE Backpack

The King Kong EDGE35 is for those who wish their gym bag offered more. If only my gym bag had a laptop sleeve! If only my gym bag had more pockets for my work items! If only you had the EDGE35.

Along with a laptop compartment and a front compartment with smaller pockets for daily essentials, the EDGE35 also includes a massive 35-liter main compartment that opens like a suitcase. This main compartment is great for larger gym items like boxing gloves or weight training gear. Oh, and there is also a dedicated shoe pocket on the bottom. King Kong has thought of everything!

The King Kong EDGE35 also feels as good as it looks. The bag is made out of tough water-resistant fabric and the inside is lined with durable ripstop nylon to minimize rips and tears over time. Add in YKK zippers and tough adjustable straps and you have one tough laptop gym backpack that will survive even the busiest of lifestyles. For a closer look at the details, check out our King Kong EDGE35 review.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 35L

• Favorite feature: bottom laundry and shoe compartment

• Padded 17” laptop compartment

• Laptop, admin and gym compartments to keep work and gym items separate

• Main packing compartment opens like a suitcase

tomtoc TechPack-T73 X-Pac Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Sleek enough to be a work bag yet tough enough for workouts, the tomtoc TechPack-T73 has everything you could need in a gym and work backpack. The large main compartment is great for storing gym clothes and shoes while seperate tech compartment gives you a padded sleeve for both a laptop and tablet.

What the TechPack-T73 does best is organization and comfort. The external pockets give you easy access for both gym and work essentials. The padded shoulder straps and cushioned back panel are this pack are also the real deal. They feel great even when the pack gets packed full.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 30L

• Favorite feature: Lots of great zip pockets for organization

• Padded laptop and tablet sleeves in a separate compartment

• Roomy main compartment that's great for bulky gym gear

• High quality construction: waterproof X-Pac, YKK zippers, super comfortable shoulder straps

Pacsafe EXP35 Anti-Theft Backpack

The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 blends the best of a daily work bag and gym duffle bag into one neat design. With 35 liters of packing room, it's large enough to handle even the busiest of schedules. You have an exterior laptop pocket for easy access to your tech, a seperate shoe compartment on the bottom and plenty of exterior pockets and heavy-duty shoulder straps and sternum strap come in the clutch when the bag starts to get heavy. The side compression straps are also great for hauling bulky items like a yoga mat or foam roller.

However, what makes the EXP35 special is it's anti-theft features. Each compartment feautures self-locking zippers to protect your belongings wherever you may roam. One of the shoulder straps also includes a special secure lock so that you can lock the bag against benches and table legs to prevent bag theft. Check out our Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 review if you want a closer look at the details.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 35L

• Favorite feature: self-locking anti-theft zippers

• 16" Padded laptop compartment

• Bottom shoe compartment

• Great for work, gym and travel

Black Ember Forge

The Black Ember Forge is one of the best gym bags for work on the market today thanks to Black Ember’s dedication to quality and functional design that is essential to the brand’s vision. Although originally designed for travel, the Forge hits it out of the park with separate compartments - a crucial feature for a backpack you need for both work and workouts.

This backpack has compartments for your laptop, tech essentials and other work items while the main compartment expands from 20L to 30L for easy accommodation of gym or travel items. This allows you to keep your work and gym gear in separate areas while always having your most important essentials within reach.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 20-30L Expandable

• Favorite feature: Can be carried as a backpack, duffel or briefcase

• Opens like a suitcase for easy packing of shoes and clothes

• Great organization for tech and work items

What to Look for in a Work and Gym Backpack

• Backpack Size

  Choosing the perfect backpack size for both work and gym activities is all about matching your needs. It depends on what you usually carry to work and the kind of workouts you do. For instance, if your morning routine involves cardio exercises before heading to the office, a backpack in the range of 20-30 liters could work just fine. It'll fit your essential work items along with a change of clothes, like shoes, a sports bra and a pair of leggings, making it easy to transition from exercise to office.

  On the other hand, if your gym routine includes a mix of weightlifting, cardio, and even maybe a CrossFit session, you might need more space for all your gym gear. A backpack that's 30 liters or more could be a better fit for you. This size would comfortably accommodate your bulky equipment, like lifting shoes, a towel, water bottle, and other items you need for an active lifestyle. Also, keep in mind your commute – if you take public transportation, a larger backpack could be more manageable than carrying an extra cross fit pack or gym kit separately. So, choose the backpack size that matches your daily routine and helps you smoothly transition from work to your workout and back.

• Storage Compartment

  Having the right storage compartments in a backpack that serves both your work and gym needs is essential. A well-designed backpack should not only keep your daily essentials like a laptop, wallet, phone, and lunch neatly organized, but it should also cater to your workout requirements. We recommend going with a backpack with dedicated compartments, like a separate shoe compartment that prevents your sneakers from mingling with your work documents. External straps are also helpful for carrying bulky items like a yoga mat or foam roller.

  For work, there are certain must-haves like a padded laptop sleeve and internal pockets for organization of daily items like pens, small notebooks and tech accessories. External pockets are equally as important for easy access to essentials like a set of keys, wallet and phone. We kept all of this in mind when compiling this buying guide and tried to only recommend bags with the right mix of pockets and compartments for a dynamic lifestyle.

• Style and Fit

  Finding the right style in a backpack that's meant for both work and gym workouts can be a lot like walking a tight rope. We have said it before but the best gym bag doesn't always translate to the best office backpack. Especially if your workplace leans towards a more professional setting, having a backpack that looks work-appropriate is crucial. A backpack with a minimalist design and clean lines can seamlessly transition from office meetings to gym sessions. Moreover, pay attention to quality, especially for a bag intended for workouts. Materials like water-resistant fabric, or even a waterproof backpack, can give you a nice mix of durability and style.

  Beyond style, backpack fit and comfort are even more important. A comfortable backpack that suits your physique can drastically enhance your daily experience. Adjustable straps, cushioned back panels, and a sternum strap (for bigger bags) are all pivotal in ensuring the backpack conforms to your body. The right size and fit distribute weight evenly, preventing discomfort and strain on your shoulders and back. Whether navigating office hallways or hitting the gym floor, a well-fitting backpack not only enhances your comfort but also empowers you to tackle your day with confidence and ease.

More Helpful Resources

• Must-Have Gym Bag Items (verywellfit.com)

• Best Backpacks with Shoe Compartments - tested and reviewed

• Best Expandable Backpacks - for travel, work and gym

• Best Clamshell Backpacks - tested and reviewed

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Rains Backpack vs Rains Mini - What's the Difference?

In this hands-on backpack comparison, we take a look at the Rains Backpack and the Rains Backpack Mini to find out the real differences between these two waterproof backpacks.

The first thing you should know is that these two backpacks are nearly identical. The Rains Backpack Mini really is just a shrunken down Rains Backpack. Our goal with this comparison is to help you find the perfect sizing based on your carry needs by focusing on the size differences and exploring what fits in each backpack so that you can make the best choice.

Video Review

Quick Specs

	Rains Backpack	Rains Mini
Volume	13L	9L
Materials	PU Coated Polyester	PU Coated Polyester
Dimensions	18.9” (H) x 11.8” (W) x 4.7” (D)	15.7” (H) x 11.” (W) x 3.9” (D)
Weight	34.9oz	31.4oz
Laptop Sleeve	Up to 15" (can fit 16" Macbook Pro)	Up to 15"
Water Bottle Pocket	No	No
Chest Strap	No	No
Price

Size Difference: Rains Backpack vs Mini

How each backpack fits - Rains Backpack vs Mini

The biggest difference between the Rains Backpack and the Rains Backpack Mini is how they fit. The Mini is not only a lot shorter in height but it is also slightly more narrow and has less depth. All this means is that the Mini will stick out a little less and take up less room on your back when you wear it.

We recommend the Rains Mini to shorter people who may find the footprint of the Rains Backpack too large on the back. The 15.7-inch height of the Rains Mini will be a much better fit for people with shorter torsos. Although the regular Rains Backpack is larger, it is by no means a bulky backpack and will be great for anyone looking for a backpack with a slim profile.

Backpack Dimensions

• Rains Backpack: 18.9” (H) x 11.8” (W) x 4.7” (D)

• Rains Backpack Mini: 15.7” (H) x 11.” (W) x 3.9” (D)

Rains Backpack vs Mini - Side view to show how the Mini has less depth

One detail that we were surprised to discover is that both backpacks include the same sized shoulder straps. Any difference in shoulder strap fit comes from the size of the backpacks themselves. Since the Mini is smaller you can expect a slightly tighter fit but it's a very minor difference.

Materials and Construction

Both Rains backpacks are identical in construction. They both are made with the same polyester fabric with a waterproof PU coating. This coating is what gives all Rains backpacks their smooth feel and matte finish. The two backpacks also share the same exact metal hardware and carabiner buckle closure.

Water-repellent coatings: Rains Backpack in Grey color and the Rains Mini in Sand color

Pockets: Rains Backpack vs Mini

Both the Rains Backpack and Mini sizes have the same number of exterior and interior pockets. The most important takeaway is that all the pockets on the Rains Mini will be smaller than the ones on the full-sized Rains Backpack.

Rains Backpack vs Mini - Back pocket with passport and phone inside

On the back of each bag there is a hidden pocket for quick access to valuables such as cash, a passport or a phone. However, the size of the phone that can fit inside the Mini's back pocket may be limited. We found that the back pocket on the Mini could just fit a regular Apple iPhone 15 but it may have trouble fitting larger phones.

Rains Backpack vs Mini - Inside zipper pocket

Another zippered pocket can be found inside each main compartment. Although the pocket in the Mini is smaller, both are large enough to fit a laptop charger as well as smaller items such as pens.

Laptop Sleeve

Inside the main compartment is where you'll find an internal laptop sleeve. The first thing to note is that these laptop sleeves are not padded and do not provide much of a false bottom. A false bottom is spacing between the bottom of the laptop sleeve and the bottom of the bag to prevent accidental damage from drops. With this in mind, we like to pair our laptop with a padded sleeve when using the Rains Backpack for extra protection.

Rains Backpack vs Mini - the laptop sleeve

Both the Rains Backpack and the Rains Mini can fit a laptop up to 15-inches. However, we did find that the Rains Backpack can fit a 16-inch Macbook Pro, which is great news for Macbook Pro users. Unfortunatly, a 16-inch Macbook Pro will be way to too tight of a fit inside the Rains Mini laptop sleeve for us to recommend it.

Where things start to get complicated is if you plan on using a padded laptop case for extra protection. With a padded case, the largest laptop that can fit inside the Rains Mini is a 13" laptop. If you plan on using a padded case with a 14" or 15" laptop then you will have to upgrade to the full-size Rains Backpack.

What Fits Inside Each Rains Backpack?

The Rains Backpack gives you 13 liters of packing space inside the main compartment while the Rains Mini only gives you 9 liters. It's safe to say that neither are large backpacks. Their slim designs force you to stack items on top of each other (it feels like playing a game of Tetris). What we found is both backpacks do best with smaller items like pouches, notebooks and water bottles while the Rains Mini will have trouble fitting bulky items like a jacket, lunch box and bigger shoes.

What Fits Inside the 13L Rains Backpack?

• 24oz Water Bottle

• Tech Case

• Sunglasses Case

• Headphones

• Small Notebook

• Lightweight Jacket

• Laptop (inside sleeve)

What Fits Inside the 9L Rains Backpack Mini?

• 24oz Water Bottle

• Tech Case

• Sunglasses Case

• Headphones

• Small Notebook

• Laptop (inside sleeve)

The Rains Backpack Mini can fit everything that the regular Rains Backpack can fit except for the lightweight jacket. The extra height on the Rains Backpack allows you to "stack" items on top of each other, allowing for a jacket to fit on top of the smaller items.

Both main compartments packed with the same stuff. The Rains Backpack has room on top for a jacket or lunchbox.

Our conclusion: If you have bulky items such as a jacket, lunch box or shoes then the Rains Backpack will be the better choice. Unfortunately, the Rains Backpack Mini may be too small to fit these kinds of larger items and if they do fit, it's all you'll be able to fit inside.

Which Rains Backpack Size Should You Buy?

Rains Backpack

Rains Backpack Mini

Choose the Rains Backpack if... you need a reliable daily carry backpack that can handle small and larger items alike. Although the 13L Rains Backpack is slim, it can still fit bulky items like shoes, jackets and lunch boxes. The laptop pocket is also better suited for larger laptops such as a 16-inch Macbook Pro or a 15-inch laptop inside a padded case for extra protection.

Choose the Rains Mini if... you only need to carry a laptop and smaller essentials. The 8L Mini is great for storing items like pouches, water bottles and umbrellas but it does struggle to fit larger items like shoes and bulky jackets. Although you can fit a 15-inch laptop inside the laptop pocket - you'll be limited to a 13-inch laptop if you want to use a padded case. The Rains Mini is also better suited for shorter people who might find the full-sized Rains Backpack too large of a fit.

More Helpful Resources

• Waterproof Backpack for College - Great waterproof and water-resistant backpack options for daily carry and school

• Backpacks Like the Fjallraven Kanken - Lots of small backpack choices that rival the Rains Mini

• Best Small Backpacks for Men - Our favorite backpacks for men under 20L

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Day Owl Backpack vs Day Owl Slim - Ultimate Comparison

Which Day Owl backpack is best for daily carry? Is the Day Owl Slim too small? We answer these questions and more in this side-by-side Day Owl comparison. 

We have had the privilege of using both backpacks for two years at the time of this comparison and have some great insights on both. Our real life takeaway is that we love the Day Owl Slim as a personal item backpack for airline travel and the Day Owl Backpack more for everyday carry but we will let you be the judge on which backpack is best for your needs by comparing the pockets, main compartments overall functionality.

Video Review

Quick Specs

	Day Owl Backpack	Day Owl Slim
Volume	21L	13L
Materials	Recycled waxed canvas	Recycled waxed canvas
Dimensions	17” (H) x 12” (W) x 5” (D)	15.5” (H) x 11” (W) x 3.5” (D)
Weight	2.4lbs	2lbs
Laptop Compartment	Up to 16"	Up to 14"
Water Bottle Pocket	Yes	Yes
Chest Strap	No	No
Price

Size: Day Owl Backpack vs Day Owl Slim

Size and Fit: Day Owl Backpack vs Day Owl Slim

Exterior Dimensions:

• Day Owl Backpack: 17" x 12" x 5” (up to 6.5” fully packed)

• Day Owl Slim:  15.5" x 11" x 3.5” (up to 5” fully packed)

We should start out by pointing out that the regular Day Owl Backpack is not a bulky backpack to begin with. Its slim profile is a hallmark its minimalist look. With that being said, the regular Day Owl should fit most people just fine.

As the name implies, the Day Owl Slim is, you guessed it, slimmer! We found that the regular Day Owl gives you almost 6.5-inches in depth while the Slim comes in at 5-inches. Note: these measurements were taken when both backpacks were fully packed out with a laptop, full main compartment and a notebook in the front pocket. You’re actual depth measurements depends on what you pack inside!

Day Owl Backpack vs Day Owl Slim side by side

In addition to being slimmer, the Day Owl Slim will give you an overall smaller height and is slightly narrower in width. Overall, the Day Owl Slim will better suit people who usually find most backpacks too bulky on the back or those with shorter torsos who worry about the Day Owl Backpack being too long.

The shoulder straps on the Day Owl Slim are also going to be slightly narrower and overall smaller. So those with wider shoulders or a bulkier frame may find the Day Owl more accommodating overall.

Materials and Construction

Both the Day Owl Backpack and the Slim offer a near-identical construction. The bags are crafted with the same First Mile recycled wax canvas material, complemented by metal zippers and hardware.

We've had the opportunity to use these backpacks for two years leading up to this comparison, which should give the you some added insight into how the waxed canvas ages.

The full-sized Day Owl Backpack is in the Pale Olive color while the Day Owl Slim is Dawn Grey. The way that waxed canvas ages is unlike other fabrics; the more the bag is used, the more of a unique patina develops. 

You can see how the Pale Olive color has visible patina marks while the light Dawn Grey color does a better job at hiding any marks that have developed on the wax canvas.

Day Owl vs Slim: Exterior Pockets

The first thing you should know is that although the Day Owl Backpack and Slim share most of the same pockets, the pockets on the Slim are much smaller.

Day Owl Backpack vs Day Owl Slim: Both have most of the same exterior pockets.

The size difference can be best seen in the spill-resistant water bottle pockets. While both models can fit a wine bottle, the Day Owl Slim is restricted to slimmer water bottles, such as the 24oz Hydroflask bottle show in the photos. The full-size Day Owl Backpack however, can fit larger 32oz or 40oz bottles inside the water bottle pocket just fine.

Both the Day Owl and the Slim feature a flat front pocket and a top pocket but the Slim is missing the hidden side pocket.

Day Owl Backpack vs Day Owl Slim: The Slim is missing the hidden side pocket

A huge difference worth noting is that the Day Owl Backpack has two different spots for storing phone: the top pocket and the hidden side pocket. Unfortunately, the Day Owl Slim is missing the side pocket and the top pocket is too small to fit a phone. This is where the smaller pockets on the Day Owl Slim starts to feel like a downgrade. Aside from the front pocket, items like a phone, passport or portable power bank don’t really have a home on the outside of the bag and as a result you have less quick-access to these items when compared to the original Day Owl Backpack.

Laptop Compartments

For many, the real deciding factor will be the size of the laptop compartment in each backpack. The original Day Owl Backpack can fit a laptop up to a 16-inch Macbook while the Day Owl Slim is limited to a laptop up to 14-inches. 

The Day Owl can fit up to a 16-inch laptop while the Slim can fit up to a 14-inch laptop.

In our testing we found that although the Day Owl Slim can fit a 14-inch PC, it’s a tight fit with the corners of the laptop coming uncomfortably close to the top of the pocket. For extra peace of mind, we do recommend just upgrading to the full-sized Day Owl Backpack if you have a 14-inch PC for that extra protection. The Day Owl Slim is really ideal for 13-inch laptops and tablets (in fact, it’s one of our favorite tablet backpacks), since these smaller devices comfortably fit inside.

It’s worth noting that both laptop compartments are well-padded. Although neither provide a raised false-bottom, there is a thick piece of foam at the bottom of each laptop pocket to protect your device from bumps and drops. In our two years of using these backpacks for travel and daily carry, the laptop protection has always been reliable.

What Fits Inside Each Backpack?

Day Owl Capacity:

• Day Owl Backpack: 21L

• Day Owl Slim: 13L

The Day Owl Backpack offers a capacity of 21L, significantly more than the 13L of the Day Owl Slim. What we have always loved about both backpacks is that the main compartment has a clamshell design for easy packing and unpacking. 

Both backpacks can fit a change of clothes but the Day Owl Backpack can hold an extra pair of sneakers.

The most important fact to know here is that both the water bottle and top pocket take up room on the inside of the main compartments when they are packed. This isn’t a big deal with the larger Day Owl Backpack but with the Slim it starts to really effect the already limited packing space.

Both backpacks can fit items like folder, binders and notebooks but the Day Owl Slim won’t fit these items if you have a water bottle inside the pocket. 

Notebooks and folders fit inside the Day Owl Slim as long as you don’t use the side water bottle pocket.

This difference impacts what you can carry. The Day Owl Backpack can handle bulkier items like lunch boxes, large notebooks, or even a camera cube, while the Slim is more suited for smaller items small notebooks, pouches and tech accessories.

Which Day Owl Size Should You Buy?

Day Owl Backpack

Day Owl Slim

Choose the Day Owl Backpack if… you need more space for larger items such as a lunch box, camera cube or large binders and notebooks. We prefer the Day Owl Backpack as a school and overnight travel bag for its roomy interior and exterior pockets. You should go with the Day Owl if you have a laptop larger than 14-inches or if you carry larger water bottles.

Choose the Day Owl Slim if… you only need a small daypack for essentials. The compact size makes it great for people with shorter torsos who find many other backpacks too bulky. We also love the Day Owl Slim as a travel backpack! It’s great for carrying in-flight essentials and has been small enough to be used as an underseat personal item on on every flight we have taken it on.

More Helpful Resources

• Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L Review - Another compact bag to consider

• Best Backpacks Like the Fjallraven Kanken - Lots of small backpack choices that rival the Day Owl

• Best Small Backpacks for Men - Our favorite backpacks for men under 20L

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10 Best Women’s Backpacks for Work in 2023 - Tested and Reviewed

It wasn't long ago when a women's professional backpack was almost unheard of. Our work bag choices were typically limited to purses or tote bags. However, the times are changing and backpack brands are now introducing many women's work backpack options in sleek silhouettes. With the increasing items we carry daily—laptops, tech accessories, water bottles, and even a change of clothes—a spacious work backpack has become a more practical choice. But can a backpack be professional? We think so!

Finding the perfect functional and stylish work backpack doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this buying guide, we've done the legwork, researching and testing numerous brands to find the very best work backpacks for women. Our top picks span from cute business-casual designs to more polished professional styles. We've also highlighted some versatile convertible backpacks that can transform into a chic tote bag in mere seconds. Plus, for those on a budget, we've included a few affordable options!

How We Chose These Backpacks

Shown in Photo Above:

1. Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack - Roomy convertible backpack with water resistant design

2. Chrome Ruckas 14L - Sleek yet tough daily commuter backpack

3. Troubadour Ember Backpack - Business backpack for women with lots of organization

4. Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack - Spacious (and stylish) women’s work backpack under $100

Sophisticated Style

From meeting clients in a conference room to meeting colleagues at a coffee shop, a stylish backpack will help you look and feel your best throughout the work day. But we didn't just look for sophisticated style, we also paid attention to a high quality construction. This buying guide features work backpacks for women made with water-resistant nylon, canvas, vegan leather as well as sustainable materials.

Most of the backpacks we chose are offered in different colors so that you can express your unique style. After all, the the perfect backpack is the one that make you look and feel your best.

Shown Above: Troubadour Ember Backpack. Model height: 5’6”

A Comfortable Fit

There are tons of cute work backpacks out there, but why do so many have thin backpack straps and terrible comfort features? Whether you need a backpack for your daily commute or business trips, having a comfortable backpack is important. This is why we paid attention to finding packs with padded adjustable straps, a comfortable back panel and a chest strap when needed.

Our main priority was finding women's work backpacks that are not only comfortable but a good fit. For many women, most backpacks are either too broad in the shoulder straps or too long on the back. This is why we focused on backpacks that are a better fit for people with narrower shoulders and a shorter torso length. Although "professional backpacks for women" can be worn by anyone, it's worth pointing out this distinction when we talk about fit. For larger work bags, check out our list of the best work backpacks for men as well as our business casual backpack buying guide.

Great Organization

A backpack for everyday use has to help you stay organized. We looked for bags that can be used by professional women with specific features like a dedicated laptop sleeves and exterior pockets for easy access to small items. Just as important is a roomy main compartment that has enough room for work items such as a lunch, water bottle and light jacket or sweater.

Business travelers may need a daily bag that can double as their travel bag. While others would like ample space for workout clothes and other after-work activities. For safe daily commutes, we included our favorite women's backpacks with hidden pockets. Whatever your carry goals, we made sure to include backpacks of all sizes so that you can find the perfect one.

Best Work Backpacks for Women

Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack

Why We Chose This Backpack

Convertible design that looks great as a backpack or tote bag. Very roomy interior that's perfect for women who carry lots of items to work

What to Keep in Mind

No trolley sleeve for business travel. Some women may find the bag too bulky.

Stylish, spacious and versatile. We believe the Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack is the perfect backpack for professional women thanks to its upscale design and great features. This convertible backpack goes from a comfortable backpack to a sophisticated tote bag in seconds. Simply tuck in the shoulder straps and you are all set. In addition to being stylish, the Bivy Tote Backpack is also very water resistant making it a practical choice for work commuters. The bag is made with high quality waterproof fabric and is topped with water-resistant zippers for peace of mind in inclement weather.

With 21 liters of packing room, the spacious interior of the Bivy Tote Backpack allows for easy packing of bulkier items like a light jacket, lunch, folders and binders. It even includes a large 17" padded laptop sleeve and plenty of interior pockets for organization. On the outside you have slip pockets for water bottles and a few zippered pockets for quick access to smaller items. The Bivy Tote is one of those backpacks that offers much more than its minimalist exterior implies and once you delve into everything it has to offer it becomes clear why we consider it the best work backpack for women available right now.

Key features:

• Capacity: 21L

• 17-inch laptop sleeve

• Convertible: backpack to tote bag

• Available in professional colors: marine blue (shown), black and navy

• Highly water-resistant construction made with recycled materials and vegan leather

Day Owl Backpack Slim

Why We Chose This Backpack

Cute women's backpack available in two sizes with lots of colors to choose from. Roomy main compartment with lots of pockets.

What to Keep in Mind

Waxed canvas can mark easily and forms a patina with use. The Day Owl backpack may be too casual for conservative business settings.

Offered in lots of different colors, the Day Owl stands as the best work backpack for women who want a pop of fun and style during their daily commute. Say goodbye to boring backpacks!

It's all about small details with the Day Owl Backpack Slim. Each bag is made with hardwearing water-resistant waxed-canvas that is ethically sourced from recycled plastic water bottles. Although it looks minimalist on the outside, there are actually a ton of exterior pockets for easy access, including a dedicated laptop compartment and sneaky pockets for keeping valuables safe. Office-friendly design details like the leak-proof hidden water bottle pocket and no-dangle adjustable shoulder straps also help give you a more professional look when worn.

The Day Owl Backpack comes in two sizes: the regular 21L version and the small "Slim" 13L version. We chose to feature the Day Owl Slim for its compact fit that still gives you enough room for work essentials. If you usually find most backpacks to have too large, especially at the torso length, then we recommend going with the smaller Slim version. However, the regular Day Owl is great for women who need a roomier work backpack for stuff like a 16-inch laptop, a large lunchbox or shoes in addition to their office essentials. Check out our Day Owl Backpack vs Slim comparison for more details.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 13L (larger 21L size available)

• 14" padded laptop compartment

• Available in lots of different colors

• Sustainable: Made of waxed canvas from recycled plastic bottles and is designed to be repaired, not thrown away

Kroser Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Why We Chose This Backpack

Great value for such an affordable price. Lots of interior pockets for organization.

What to Keep in Mind

Zippers and internal lining may not hold up as well over time when compared to pricier bags.

A consistent bestseller on Amazon, the Kroser Laptop Backpack is our top professional backpack recommendation for budget-conscious women. This affordable laptop backpack is packed with pockets designed to help you stay organized during a busy workday. It features padded sleeves for both a laptop and tablet, a luggage strap for travel, and lots of smaller pockets for daily essentials. Our favorite feature has to be the USB charging port that is built-into the side of the backpack. So, if you are looking for a stylish and affordable charging backpack for women, look no further!

In terms of work-ready style, this backpack doesn't disappoint! Its versatile tote-backpack design offers two carrying options: use the adjustable straps to wear it as a traditional backpack or opt for the top handles when you're in the mood for a chic tote. The gold hardware coupled with PU leather accents infuses a touch of elegance, making it a great fit for professional settings.

The Kroser Laptop Backpack is available in 15.6" and 17" versions. We found that the 15.6" laptop compartment can accommodate a 16-inch Macbook Pro, while the separate tablet sleeve fits an iPad Pro comfortably. For those with a PC laptop larger than 15", we suggest upgrading to the larger 17" Kroser Laptop Backpack.

Key Features:

• 15.6" laptop sleeve and separate tablet sleeve

• Built-in USB charging port

• Made with water repellent fabric with PU leather accents

• Affordable budget price

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

Why We Chose This Backpack

Stylish laptop backpack with a large capacity. Great for women who need lots of packing space.

What to Keep in Mind

The Everlane ReNew Transit isn't as structured as other bags we tested. Can sometimes look sloppy depending on how you pack it.

The Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack is one of the largest work backpacks for women on this list with a spacious capacity of 27 liters. This is enough room for all of your daily essentials plus a lunch, light jacket or change of clothes. There is also a separate compartment for a 15-inch laptop and a few exterior pockets for organization. (P.s. We did test the laptop sleeve and can confirm that it fits a 16-inch Macbook Pro. PC users max out at 15-inches.)

Those looking for a work backpack that can also double as a travel bag will love the travel-focused features on the ReNew Transit. In fact, this is one of our favorite personal item backpacks for flights! The spacious interior is great for packing for a weekend trip while the trolley sleeve makes strolling through busy airports a breeze.

Between the large capacity, omfortable padded straps, sleek style and the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack is easily our favorite backpack under $100. Make sure to check out our Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack review for more details.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 27L

• 15-inch laptop compartment (fits 16” Macbook Pro or 15” PC)

• Two water bottle holders (inside and outside)

• Sustainable: Made from recycled plastic bottles

Troubadour Ember Backpack

Why We Chose This Backpack

A sophisticated women's business backpack design with some of the most comfortable padded shoulder straps we have tested. Water-resistant construction.

What to Keep in Mind

No water bottle pockets. 13L may not be enough room for women who carry bulky items to work like a change of clothes or lunch.

The Troubadour Ember is our top pick for those looking for a professional backpack for women that doesn't skimp on the important details. What sets the Ember apart from other work backpacks is that it includes a dedicated laptop compartment with sleeves for both a laptop and tablet plus an extra padded sleeve inside the main compartment, making it the best laptop backpack we have tested for women who carry multiple devices to work. If that weren't enough you also get generous interior pockets for work essentials and a water-resistant design that's made to protect important items on rainy commutes.

One area where Troubadour backpacks really thrive is with their comfort features. The backpack straps on the Ember are super comfortable thanks to their generous padding and ergonomic S-curve design. And say goodbye to flimsy back panels! This backpack gives you real back panel padding in a breathable design for all day comfort. Honestly, when it comes to women's backpacks, few impress us more than Troubadour bags. They consistantly hit that design sweet spot between comfort, function and style.

At 13-liters, the Troubadour Ember is on the smaller side. It's profile is slim and sleek, making it perfect for professional settings. We really do recommend it if you don't like the look of a bulky backpack and we found it perfect for storing business essentials such as tech, notebooks and small items. With this said, the Ember may be a little too small if you need to carry bulkier items to work like a lunch box or heavy jacket. This is just something to keep in mind.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 13L

• Water resistant construction

• Lots of smaller pockets for organization

• Padded laptop compartment + extra padded sleeve

Chrome Ruckas 14L Backpack

Why We Chose This Backpack

Well-made backpack with a water resistant design to combat inclement weather. Available in different colors.

What to Keep in Mind

External laptop sleeve could be more protective (no false bottom) but you can use the internal padded sleeve instead.

Chrome is known for their durable waterproof backpacks, but with the Ruckas, the brand has opted for a more refined design. The Chrome Ruckas proves that a cute work backpack can still be tough. Crafted from durable water-resistant fabric, it features ergonomic padded straps and a sternum strap —a winning combination for daily work commuters.

A really unique feature of the Ruckas is the 3/4 main zipper design allowing access to the main compartment from the top or the side. This unique zipper design lets you quickly grab items or open the main compartment nice and wide for easy packing. Despite just being 14-liters, the Ruckas is surprisingly roomy. In our tests, we managed to fill the internal pockets and still have plenty of room for a lunchbox or change of clothes. Yet despite the roomy interior, the Chrome Ruckas 14L still keeps a slim and professional profile when worn.

Interior features such as pockets for pens and other small items make daily organization a breeze. For tech carry, the Ruckas offers a padded sleeve inside the main compartment and an additional separate laptop compartment on the outside of the bag, allowing you to carry multiple devices. One the outside, the Ruckas provides you with a water bottle holder and extra water resistant pocket for quick access to smaller items.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 14L

• 13-inch padded sleeve + external laptop compartment

• Available in 3 colors: Black, Natural and Green

• Water-resistant construction

• Includes sternum strap

More Great Work Backpacks for Women

Pacsafe Citysafe CX Anti-Theft Backpack

The Pacsafe Citysafe CX is a stylish backpack that is packed with anti-theft safety features for both daily commuters and frequent business travelers alike! Each exterior zipper closure has a built-in locking feature to keep thieves from entering your pack. If that wasn't enough, one shoulder strap also includes a lock that allows you to attach your Citysafe CX to a table or chair leg to prevent bag snatch and grabs. These anti-theft features really give the Pacsafe Citysafe CX a leg up from the competition and we really do recommend you take a closer look at this bag if you commute in crowded space or travel for work frequently.

As a daily commuter backpack for women we really love the 17-liter main compartment that gives you ample space for a busy work day. Inside you'll find a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of internal pockets to keep you organized. Each Pacsafe Citysafe CX is designed for those with shorter torsos for a better fit with being too small. With its compact size, stylish design, and impressive anti-theft features, Pacsafe offers one of the best laptop bags currently available for commuting and travel.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 17L

• 16" laptop sleeve

• Made with anti-slash water-resistant fabric

• Anti-theft zippers in main compartment and front pocket

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

The Lo & Sons Rowledge a standout women’s business backpack thanks to thoughful design and luxury materials. It's fair to say that The Rowledge backpack is not cheap and can be considered an investment piece to your daily business wardrobe. Instead of synthetic leather, the Rowledge uses buttery soft Nappa leather accents and small details like water-resistant zippers and Jacquard interior lining all adds up to its luxury feel. With its high-quality construction in mind, it's safe to say that Lo & Sons Rowledge has set a new standard for professional women's backpacks.

What the Rowledge does very well is give you with lots of pockets for daily organization. Not only does the roomy main compartment have enough room to hold bulky items like busines files and folders, a lunch or even a spare pair of shoes, it's also packed with interior pockets for small items like business cards and pens. The outside of the backpack is just as impressive. The Rowledge gives you a seperate laptop compartment, zipper pockets for quick access to daily essentials and side pockets that zip up when not in use for a cleaner look. When it comes to organization, the Rowledge is a complete rockstar and one of our favorite women's business backpacks to date.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 17L or 21L (so that you can find the perfect size)

• Seperate laptop compartment for 13" device

• Water-resistant construction with real Nappa Leather accents

• Convertible backpack purse design

• Available in different luxe color combinations (choose between gold, silver or black hardware)

Lux & Nyx The Zoe

The Zoe by Lux & Nyx is our recommendation for anyone looking for a well-made backpack to wear in professional settings. The features that Lux & Nyx includes in this pack are incredible!

As a laptop backpack for work, the Zoe gives you a separate laptop compartment with sleeves for a laptop and tablet to keep your tech safe. This bag is also packed with exterior pockets for easy access to small items. But our favorite feature has to be the side pocket for shoes, making the Zoe the perfect backpack with shoe compartment for after-work activities.

If you love the look of a leather backpack but want a vegan alternative, this is the bag for you. The Zoe is actually a vegan leather backpack that uses eco-friendly "Freedom Fiber" instead for an upscale look.

Key Features:

• Avaiable in Small and Large sizes for the perfect fit

• Side-access shoe compartment

• Separate compartment for laptop and tablet

• Made of eco-friendly vegan leather with gold hardware

LaFlore Paris bobobark Convertible Backpack

Laflore Paris offers a sophisticated backpack for work with the bobobark convertible backpack purse. What we love most about this bag is its slim profile that still gives you the room you need for everyday use. The main compartment is big enough to store a 15-inch laptop inside the padded laptop sleeve with plenty of room for notebooks, an umbrella and other work essentials. The phone and laptop pockets allow for quick access to your tech through exterior zippers.

A standout feature is that the bobobark is convertible. The adjustable straps allow you to wear the bag as a backpack, crossbody bag or handbag.

The Laflore Paris bobobark is perfect for anyone who needs a cute laptop backpack for work made from high quality vegan materials. This makes the bobobark perfect for those who like the look of a leather backpack but are looking for a more ethical option. Each bobobark backpack is handmade with an exceptional attention to detail that you’ll rarely find in mass-produced bags.

Key features:

• 15-inch laptop sleeve

• Can be worn as a backpack, crossbody or handbag

• Vegan, water-resistant construction, metal hardware (no plastic!)

Our Testing Process

The Backpackies team tested dozens of women's work backpacks and only highlighted the very best. Our main priorities when testing were comfort, organization and style. We also kept in mind that a "work backpack for women" is a broad category. This is why we focused on selections that are versatile enough for both daily commuting and business travel.

Our testing items included a water bottle, laptop, tablet, tech chargers, a light jacket, business binders, notebooks, shoes, clothing, and personal essentials like cosmetics. Each backpack was evaluated by their easy access to items as well as their organization of these items. Many of these backpacks we have personally used in the real world for our own commutes and weekend getaways, while others underwent testing in our studio. The top picks chosen in this buying guide were the ones that performed the best.

Finally, comfort and fit were just as important as style. If the backpack wasn't comfortable to wear, then we just did not include it.

Work Backpacks for Women - Common FAQs

• Are Backpacks Considered Professional?

  The short answer is yes, a backpack can be considered professional. The secret lies in choosing the right design.

  For professional settings, choose a backpack with a mature and sophisticated design. This means avoiding loud colors and sporty designs that look like they belong on a hiking trail instead of a client meeting. Dangling straps, like those from hip belts or shoulder straps, should also be avoided for a cleaner look. In this buying guide we really tried to avoid women's backpacks with elements like mesh water bottle pockets, bungee chords and compression strap so to ensure that the bag is as sleek looking as possible while still being functional.

  When it comes to materials, classic choices like high-weave nylon and genuine or faux leather are recommended for women's professional work backpacks. Sticking to neautral colors such as black, navy, gray and beige will also elevate the bag to a more professional look. These rules aren't set in stone, and what you ultimatly wear depends on how casual your work setting is, but sticking with tried and true materials and colors will add up to a more professional look.

• What Size Backpack is Best for Work?

  For most women, a backpack that measures 17-inches or under in height will provide the best fit. This will accommodate for a shorter torso and provide a more proportional look when worn on the back. Given the need for a more compact fit, we found that many women's backpack for work can range from 13 to 25 liters in capacity. Although 13 liters is on the smaller side, it gives you just enough room to organize smaller work essentials such as a laptop, pens, a wallet, water bottle and cosmetics kit. A 25 liter pack is better suited for bulkier items like multiple binders and folders, a jacket or lunch box.

  To get a better idea of what size backpack you really need, make sure to check out our Backpack Size Guide. This helpful guide illustrates what fits in different size packs.

• How do I Choose a Good Commuter Backpack?

  With commuter backpacks our emphasis is always on comfort. If you plan on wearing your work backpack for long periods of time during daily commutes then having comfortable padded adjustable straps and a breathable back panel is a must. Other features like exterior pockets for quick access to items like a metro card or umbrella are also helpful.

• Can a work backpack also be used as a travel bag for short business trips?

  Absolutely! A good professional backpack is versatile enough to use for both daily carry and travel. If you need a bag that does both make sure to choose a backpack with travel-specific features such as a trolley sleeve, water bottle pockets and easy-access pockets for travel essentials. Many backpacks also include safety features such as secret anti-theft pockets for items like passports, wallets and other valuables. These are all must-have features for traveling and the good news is that many modern women's work backpacks do include them!

More Helpful Resources

• Backpack Size Guide - 14 liters? 25 liters? This visual guide helps you choose the right size bag.

• Best Backpacks for Work and Gym - Larger bags for work essentials and gym kit

• Best Waterproof Backpacks for Women - Great commuter backpack options

• Backpacks like Tumi - List of alternative brands to Tumi

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10 Best Men's Backpacks For Work that are Professional and Stylish

Our hunt for the best business backpack for men began here. The mission was clear: to find the perfect men's backpack that hits that sweet spot of professional style, comfort, and functionality. Picture a backpack that seamlessly transitions from morning commute to business meeting. A backpack that not only keeps you organized, but elevates your professional style with thoughtful design.

Does that perfect backpack exist?

We found that many brands now offer modern backpacks for business professionals that rival more traditional forms of business carry such as a traditional briefcase or messenger bag. In fact, today it's easier than ever to opt-in for a carefully crafted business laptop backpack made of premium materials that will look great with a suit.

In this buying guide, we tested a ton of backpacks to find our top picks for the best men's work backpacks. These office backpacks check all the boxes for professional and stylish carry. More importantly, they come equipped with the features you need to ensure comfortable business carry during your daily commute or your next important business trip. From padded laptop sleeves and pockets for business cards to heavy duty fabrics and water-resistant designs: whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, finding the best business backpack for men has never been easier.

How We Chose These Backpacks

To make life easier we used specific criteria when choosing the men's backpacks featured in this buying guide. Although there are tons of great tech and urban backpacks on the market, only some designs are professional enough to wear to work. But by focusing on sleek designs, business-friendly pockets and high quality construction it became easier to narrow down to a few of our favorite models.

Shown In Photo Above:

1. Troubadour Apex Backpack - Water resistant men's work backpack with lots of pockets for daily essentials.

2. Harber London Office Backpack - Functional backpack for business professionals with high quality construction.

3. Nomatic Backpack - Sleek expandable laptop backpack that can convert to a briefcase.

4. Knack Pack Series 2 - Daily backpack with a hidden expandable travel compartment

Sleek Designs for Professionals

In our quest to find the best men's backpacks for work, our focus was on selecting sleek designs that seamlessly fit into a professional environment. This meant steering clear of hiking backpacks with unruly dangling straps and attachment points for outdoor gear, as well as school bookbags that look like they belong inside a high school classroom. Brands like Jansport and The North Face, known for their more casual styles, didn't make the cut in this category. Instead, we zeroed in on backpacks with a simple design that can effortlessly elevate your look, whether you're navigating bustling morning commute or stepping into crucial client meeting.

In this list, we intentionally excluded bag styles that were too casual. However, if your work environment allows for a more relaxed style, we encourage you to explore our dedicated list of the best business casual backpacks, where you'll find a range of great options.

Storage for Daily Essentials

Our selection process also prioritized backpacks equipped with the right pockets and compartments to conquer the work day. It turns out that although some men's backpacks look great, they function poorly due to tight main compartments and a lack of extra pockets for important items. At the very least an everyday backpack for work needs to keep your daily essentials organized and easily accessible. This includes separate compartments for a padded laptop sleeve and bulkier items.

External pockets, including a dedicated water bottle holder and smaller pockets, add to the convenience of a work backpack. These features mean you won't have to rummage through your bag searching for a water bottle or fumbling for smaller items like business cards or keys. By offering designated spaces for various items, a backpack with ample pockets and compartments not only streamlines your daily routine but also ensures that you're well-prepared and efficient in a professional setting.

Shown Above: Troubadour Ridge men’s backpack with water resistant zippers and fabric

High Quality Construction

Whether you have a preference for a timeless leather backpack or a tough bag made of water-resistant materials, we know that the choice of materials plays an important role in achieving a professional look. These are backpacks that will be used in daily commutes and during hectic business travel - their quality should reflect that. Our selection process looked at men's backpacks that hit a sweet spot with great water resistance, high quality zippers and premium textiles. If a brand offers a great warranty with a purchase, we will make sure to mention that as well.

Great Comfort Features

It's no secret that a work backpack becomes an extension of one's daily routine, a companion for professionals through bustling commutes and long travel days. With this in mind, the perfect men's backpack for work is as comfortable as it is stylish.

This is why we paid attention to features like the comfort of the shoulder straps and back panel. A good backpack has great weight distribution through padded adjustable straps (and a sternum strap on a larger pack). A breathable back panel also makes life a little better on warm weather days. Features like these were all taken into consideration when compiling this list.

Best Business Backpacks for Men - Tested!

Troubadour Apex Backpack

The Troubadour Apex backpack is our top pick for business professionals seeking both style and practicality. Its clean design is tailored for the workplace and we can't help but drool a little over its sophisticated waterproof textile and vegan leather construction. This really is one of those bags that looks as good in real life as it does on the website photos.

Inside, you'll find a roomy main compartment that's tailor-made for your work essentials with pockets for pens, tech chargers and other smaller items. In the rear you'll find a large separate laptop compartment for a 17-inch device. However, some of our favorite features are found on the outside. The Apex includes two side pockets for water bottles that blend in neatly with the bag when not in use for a cleaner look. There is even a hidden pocket on the back for secure yet easy access to a cell phone.

The Apex looks sharp and maintains a slim profile when worn, making it an ideal companion for men's business wear like suits. Unlike many work backpacks that can seem bulky, the Apex offers ample room inside for your work gear, leaving space for extras like lunch or a change of clothes. Additionally, it's highly water-resistant, ensuring your valuable items stay protected from rain or snow during your daily commute. The Troubadour Apex is the perfect companion for everyday carry and travel, offering a blend of style and functionality for the modern professional setting.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 25L

• Highly water-resistant construction

• Sophisticated design with slim profile

• Quick access pockets on the outside for a phone, keys and small items

• 17" padded laptop compartment

Harber London Office Backpack

Meet the Harber London Office Backpack, a bag designed for professionals who want to look sharp while keeping their work items within reach. What makes the Office Backpack special is that each pack is handmade by expert craftsman in Spain. And you can definitely see the quality difference when you handle this bag when compared to cheaper mass-produced bags.

The most impressive design feature are the amount of pockets and compartments Harber London was able to pack into this backpack. The inside is filled with tech pockets for the modern workplace. You have a padded internal laptop pocket along with a separate tablet pocket. Harber London even includes a special slip pocket for an Apple Pencil.

The exterior pockets are just as impressive. Along with a zippered front pocket there is another hidden admin compartment with with small pockets for all the small personal items you'll need on a daily basis. Here is where you can store your keys, wallet and business cards.

As a daily men's backpack, there isn't much that the Office Backpack lacks. At 18-liters its the perfect size for men who need a slim backpack for professional work settings. It also does well as a business travel backpack thanks to its trolley sleeve and compact size that makes it a great personal item backpack on flights.

To learn more about what this backpack can do, check out our detailed Harber London Office Backpack review.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 18L

• Premium construction: full-grain leather, aviation grade aluminum buckles

• Compact profile for a professional look

• 16-inch laptop sleeve + 13-inch tablet sleeve

• Swiveling adjustable shoulder straps for the perfect fit

Nomatic Backpack

The Nomatic Backpack can be best described as the Swiss Army Knife of professional backpacks. For your everyday office needs, its impressive 20+ pockets and compartments ensure you stay organized throughout your hectic day. Transitioning into a sleek business briefcase for that important meeting is as simple as tucking away the shoulder straps. And the main compartment even expands on the days you need more packing room.

The Nomatic Backpack shines as a bag for daily commuting, thanks to its clamshell backpack design, which opens wide to reveal an array of interior pockets for easy access to your essentials. Among its standout features is the "tech panel," providing a padded laptop sleeve, sleeves for a tablet and important documents, as well as dedicated pockets for electronic devices such as a mouse, keyboard, portable charger, and hard drives.

For business travel, you'll appreciate the Nomatic Backpack's trolley sleeve for easy attachment to rolling luggage, along with a sneaky hidden pocket for securing valuables like your passport or wallet. Nomatic's innovative cable pass-through port makes it a practical charging backpack; just connect your portable charger inside the bag and route the cable to a designated top pocket, ensuring easy access to charging during long workdays.

The Nomatic Backpack is a testament to great design and feature-packed functionality, all wrapped in a sleek, high-quality package. As a men's work backpack, it truly checks all the boxes. Take a closer look at what this bag has to offer in our Nomatic Backpack review.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 20L (expandable to 24L)

• Dozens of pockets and compartments to keep you organized

• 16 inch laptop sleeve

• Clamshell main compartment for easy packing

• Stowable shoulder straps - go from backpack to briefcase in seconds

Knack Pack Series 2

The Knack Pack Series 2 was designed from the ground up for business professionals who need a stylish backpack that can do it all. In addition to a spacious main compartment, the Knack Pack Series 2 has some of the most generous interior pockets for organizing work essentials we have seen yet.

The large front compartment features tons of pockets for everything from tech charging cables to pens and business cards. Each compartment is also lined with zip pockets for bulkier items like laptop chargers and headphones. But far more impressive are the sneaky exterior pockets. Each Knack Pack comes with a hidden water bottle pocket plus a secret anti-theft pocket for valuables.

We recommend the Knack Pack to frequent business travelers who need just one reliable backpack for daily commutes to the office and business trips. Each Knack Pack features a hidden travel compartment that expands when needed for packing. No compression straps needed! Just unzip the hidden compartment and you have an instant travel backpack. Other great travel features include lockable zippers and a trolley sleeve for attaching the bag to rolling luggage.

As far as professional backpacks go, few are as jammed packed with features as the Knack Pack Series 2. Along with being expandable, the Knack Pack Series 2 is also a convertible backpack. You can tuck away the shoulder straps and transform it from a backpack to a business briefcase in seconds thanks to the side carry handle. This has to be one of our favorite features and just one of the reason the Knack Pack Series is one of the most versatile work backpacks for men available today.

Knack offers the Knack Pack in two styles, to learn more about which backpack is right for you check out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 24-35L (Medium Knack Pack)

• 15-inch laptop compartment

• Expandable hidden travel compartment

• Lots of interior pockets for organization

• Adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap are great for carrying heavy loads

Troubadour Ridge Backpack

The Troubadour Ridge is a stylish backpack for men who value organization, quality and comfort. The first feature you'll notice are the three smaller pockets on the outside. These exterior pockets are great for stashing smaller items like keys, a phone and earbuds. Trust us, these pockets come in handy during work commutes where quick access is important. The outside also gives you access to side pockets that can be used as an umbrella or water bottle holder.

What we like about this business backpack is that it gives you a generous 25 liters of storage while still staying compact. It's a deceptively roomy backpack with enough room for bulky items like a lunch or change of clothes. The main compartment is lined with pockets for office essentials like pens, a laptop charger, and other tech accessories.

A separate compartment gives you access to a laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve and extra room for important documents. This dedicated compartment allows you to grab your electronic devices without disturbing the rest of your packing.

Like all Troubadour bags, the Ridge backpack features a water-resistant coating on the fabric and each compartment is protect with water-resistant zippers. It also features vegan leather trim throughout, making it a good alternative to a leather backpack. We are also big fans of the Ridge's ergonomic backpack straps. These shoulder straps are very cushioned and feature an S-curve for better weight distribution. It's safe to say that if you are looking for a solid office backpack for everyday use then you won't be disappointed with the Troubadour Ridge.

Key Features

• Capacity: 25L

• Highly water-resistant construction with upscale vegan leather trim

• Great organization with lots of interior and exterior pockets

• Trolley sleeve and lockable zippers for business travel

More Great Men's Work Backpacks

In addition to our top picks, we put together a shortlist of men's work backpacks to consider.

Stubble & Co Everyday Backpack

The Everyday Backpack by Stubble & Co is the perfect match for work commuters who are serious about having a single bag that can do it all.

Built from the ground up as a daily laptop backpack, the Everyday Backpack is one of Stubble & Co's sleekest work bags, thanks to its weatherproof construction, clever storage compartments, and minimalist design to give you an upscale look at the office.

• Read more about the Stubble & Co Everyday Backpack

  Key Features:

  • Dimensions: 11.8” W x 18.1” H x 5.5” D

  • Capacity: 20L

  • Materials: 600D Recycled PET, Tarpaulin base, YKK Aquaguard zippers

  • Weight: 1.98 lbs

  • Laptop compartment: Up to 16”

  A Better Work Backpack

  The Stubble & Co Everyday Backpack was originally designed with commuters in mind, and you can see the inspiration in its head-to-toe weather-resistant construction and cushioned back panel and shoulder straps for all-day comfort.

  As a backpack for working professionals, Stubble & Co does a great job of offering an understated design with minimal branding. The recycled PET material also makes the exterior easy to wipe down so that your backpack always looks fresh.

  Each Everyday Backpack is equipped with a separate rear laptop compartment that can fit a laptop up to 16 inches. The roomy 20-liter main compartment is the perfect size for daily work items without making the bag too bulky. If slim and professional is what you are looking for in a work backpack, then the Everyday Backpack may be just the ticket.Description text goes here

tomtoc TechPack-T73

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Admittedly, the tomtoc TechPack-T73 has a more casual style than many of other backpacks on this list with a sporty waterproof X-Pac material instead of leather or nylon. But we still consider the TechPack-73 to be one the best business backpacks for those who need spacious compartments for daily items or travel. The 30-liters of storage space and great exterior pockets makes it great for work commuters and business travelers alike.

• Read more about the tomtoc TechPack-T73

  Key Features

  • Capacity: 30L

  • Lots of pockets for organization

  • Dedicated compartment for tech: 16" laptop and 12.9" tablet sleeves

  • Plush padded straps and back panel for comfort

  Serious Organization for Work Carry

  For tech carry, the rear compartment features padded sleeves for multiple electronic devices. The padded sleeves can accomodate both a laptop and tablet while important documents can be stored inside a document sleeve in the main compartment. Technically, you can even use the TechPack as a dual laptop backpack by using the padded document sleeve.

  The external pockets are also some of the best we have seen. These pockets gives you quick access to small items like keys, wallet, phone and a water bottle. The two zipper pockets on the front are even protected with water-resistant zippers for some extra protection. After all is said and done, the tomtoc TechPack-T73 is easily one of the most functional backpacks we have tested for working professionals.

Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack

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The Classic Leather backpack by Samsonite is a more affordable leather business laptop backpack that will have no problem finding its place at client meetings. 

Where the backpack really shines is in its compartments and organizers. Everything from your laptop and tablet to your files and business cards will have a home. For a bag that can carry so much, the Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack is surprisingly compact and handsomely sleek.

• Read more about the Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack

  Key Features:

  • Dimensions: 18.5” x 12” x 6.5”

  • Material: Full Grain Columbian Leather

  • Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

  • Two phone pockets, two laptop sleeves

  A Sophisticated Leather Backpack for Business Professionals.

  What we like most about Samsonite is that they offer backpacks similar to Tumi or Briggs & Riley but at a much more affordable price. For a leather backpack we think that the Classic Leather Backpack has struck a comfortable price-point between affordable and quality.

  The Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack is perfect for anyone who wants a premium work backpack with modern tech carry features. This backpack makes it super easy to carry both your work and personal tech, thanks to its two laptop sleeves and two phone pockets. That right, two!

  Many backpacks for business professionals don't have a well-rounded approach to carry. These backpacks either don't have enough compartments for proper tech carry or look too casual to wear to the office. The Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack, however, is incredibly office-appropriate while still having the storage features we have come to expect from more casual laptop backpacks.

  The backpack itself is slim enough to avoid the awkward bulk that many men's backpacks have and the leather construction also provides a refined look that's missing from most fabric bags.

Briggs & Riley @work Large Cargo Backpack

At 33-liters, the Brigga & Riley @work Large Cargo Backpack is easily the largest backpack featured on this list. This is thanks to its smart three-section design, offering dedicated pockets and compartments for all your business essentials.

The backpack's interior is not only practical but also protective, with an RFID blocking pocket to safeguard personal data, making it ideal for business travelers. It even has elastic slip pockets for cords and USB drives, keeping everything neatly organized. With these options and more, it's easy to see why the Briggs & Riley @Work Large Cargo Backpack is a great option for business professionals on the go

• Read more about the Briggs & Riley @work Large Cargo

  Key Features:

  • Capacity: 33L

  • Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 8 in

  • Construction: 1600D Ballistic Nylon and leather accents

  • 17” laptop sleeve + padded tablet sleeve

  • Special RFID blocking pocket for security

BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack

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Sleek and professional, the BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack is one of the best work and travel backpacks for those on a budget. Along with an anti-theft design, BOPAI gives you everything you need to comfortably pack for a work day. Inside you’ll find separate laptop and tablet sleeves plus plenty of pockets for accessories to keep you organized. This bag even features an external USB port for phone charging on the go, making it a great charging backpack option.

• Read more about the BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack

  Key Features:

  • Dimensions: 11.8” x 17.7” x 5.5”

  • Concealed anti-theft main compartment

  • 15.6” laptop sleeve + tablet sleeve

  • USB port for charging

  • Made of water resistant microfiber leather and ballistic nylon

  Big Features at an Affordable Price

  The anti-theft design on the BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack features a rear-facing zipper that stays hidden when the backpack is worn, so thieves can't access the inside of the bag. This is a great feature that will be appreciated by city office commuters and business travelers alike.

  When it comes to functionality, the BOPAI Anti-Theft Business Backpack is the perfect size for daily carry. It's not too bulky, yet the main compartment is large enough for multiple tech devices, extra clothes, and other must-have items. Since this backpack is structured, you won't have that awkward bulk that other backpacks get when full, which is perfect for business professionals who would look awkward with more casual backpacks.

More Helpful Resources

• Backpacks for Gym and Work - We tested the best bags for work and workout days

• Business Casual Backpacks - Our favorite men's backpacks for work in more casual styles

• Small Men's Backpacks - The best men's backpacks under 20L

• Backpack Size Guide - Explore what fits in different backpack sizes

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Fjallraven Raven 20 vs 28 Backpack - What's the Difference?

Right behind the Kanken, the Fjallraven Raven backpack stands out as the brand's most popular model, and for good reason. Whether you require a laptop backpack for daily wear or a rugged pack for outdoor activities, the Raven is versatile enough to meet your needs.

It's no secret that the Raven is available in two sizes: the Raven 20 and the larger Raven 28. However, what sets them apart? Is it just the size of the main compartment? Well, not exactly.

In this Raven 20 vs Raven 28 backpack comparison we will showcase each bag side by side so that you can decide which is the best for you.

Video Review

Quick Specs

	Fjallraven Raven 20	Fjallraven Raven 28
Volume	20L	28L
Materials	G-100 Heavy Duty	G-100 Heavy Duty
Dimensions	16.5” (H) x 11” (W) x 7” (D)	18.5” (H) x 12.2” (W) x 8.25” (D)
Weight	1.4lbs	2.2lbs
Laptop Compartment	Up to 15" - padded sleeve in main compartment	Up to 15" - seperate laptop compartment
Chest Strap	No	No
Waist Belt	No	No
Price

Size: Fjallraven Raven 20 vs 28

Exterior Dimensions

• Raven 20: 16.5" H x 11" W x 7.08" D (42 x 28 x 18 cm)

• Raven 28: 18.5" H x 12.2" W x 8.26" D (47 x 31 x 21 cm)

Along with having more internal packing room, the Raven 28 is the larger backpack all around. When worn, it takes up a bigger area on your back compared to the Raven 20. The Raven 28 also sticks out more when worn thanks to its extra laptop compartment (more on this below).

Padded Back Panel Dimensions

• Raven 20: 16.5" H x 10" W (42 x 25.4 cm)

• Raven 28: 18" H x 11" W (45.7 x 28 cm)

For those with shorter torsos, we generally recommend the Raven 20 for its smaller back panel. Its compact size provides a more comfortable fit for shorter people. If you prefer a backpack that doesn't stick out as much, then the Raven 20 is also the better option. In general, this small backpack is perfect for daily essentials and as a personal item bag during flights.

On the other hand, the Raven 28 will be a good fit for most people, especially as a school bookbag or as a main bag for short trips.

Materials and Comfort

When it comes to materials and comfort, both Raven backpacks are nearly identical. Fjallraven products are renowned for their durability, and the Raven packs are no exception. Both the Raven 20 and Raven 28 are crafted from the same water-resistant G-1000 HeavyDuty fabric, and they both showcase a leather Fjallraven logo and top handle.

Regarding comfort, these backpacks have the same padded airmesh back panel and padded straps for extra comfort. Despite their different sizes, the shoulder straps maintain the same dimensions. However, you will be disapointed if you are looking for a backpack with a sternum strap since neither backpack have one. While you might not need one for the smaller Raven 20, it is surprising that Fjallraven did not include a sternum strap on the larger Raven 28.

Raven 20 vs 28: Exterior Pockets

The Raven 20 and Raven 28 both include the same exact exterior pockets and compartments.

Both packs have two side pockets for water bottles. Despire the backpacks being different sizes, both the Raven 20 and 28 have the same water bottle pocket size. The photo below shows a 24oz Hydroflask bottle but we found that they can easily hold up to a 40oz Hydroflask bottle.

On the top of each pack, there's a fleece-lined pocket that can hold a phone or a pair of sunglasses. Additionally, each Raven backpack features a large zippered pocket on the front for quick storage.

Both Raven backpacks also include a roomy organizer compartment at the front. Inside, there are smaller pockets to keep items like pens and chargers organized.

The difference starts to show in the size of the pockets themselves. Apart from the water bottle pockets, each pocket on the Raven 28 is slightly larger than those on the Raven 20. This is because the Raven 28 has an overall larger size.

Laptop Storage: The Biggest Difference

The main difference between the Fjallraven Raven 20 and Raven 28 is the location of the laptop storage. In the Raven 20, the laptop sleeve is inside the main compartment, while in the Raven 28, there's a separate laptop compartment at the back. Additionally, the laptop compartment in the Raven 28 includes an extra sleeve for a flat item like a tablet or notebook.

The laptop sleeve in the Raven 20 is padded all around, but we noticed it lacks a false bottom to protect the laptop from drops. A false bottom is a space between the bottom of the laptop sleeve and the bottom of the bag. This space prevents your laptop from hitting the ground if the bag is ever accidentely dropped on the hard floor.

Instead of a flase bottom, the laptop sleeve on the Raven 20 relies on a strip of foam at the bottom for safety. On the other hand, the laptop sleeve in the Raven 28 we tested does include a little bit of a false bottom, adding an extra layer of protection along with the bottom padding.

In conclusion, the laptop compartment in the Raven 28 offers a bit more protection and is more convenient to use. Retrieving the laptop from the separate compartment in the Raven 28 is much simpler compared to having to take out items from the main compartment to reach the laptop in the Raven 20.

Note: We tested each pack with a 13 inch Macbook, however both Ravens can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop.

Explore Fjallraven Alternatives

See the list

What Fits Inside Each?

Let's take a look at what you can actually fit inside the main compartments of the Fjallraven Raven 20 and Raven 28 backpacks after exploring their sizes and pockets. The examples below should provide you with a realistic idea of what you can comfortably pack in each main pocket.

While it's clear that one Raven offers 20 liters of packing room and the other provides 28 liters, what is suprising is that both main compartments have 5-inches of depth. However, the Raven 20 has slightly less functional space due to the presence of a padded laptop sleeve that occupies room, even when empty.

What fits inside the Raven 20?

• Laptop inside padded sleeve

• 2x Folders

• 2x 1-inch binders

• 1x Single Subject Notebook

What fits inside the Raven 28?

• 2x Folders

• 2x 1-inch binders

• 1x Single Subject Notebook

• 2x Large Notebooks

• Laptop (inside the laptop compartment)

In the Raven 20, we managed to fit a laptop, two folders, two one-inch binders, and a single-subject notebook. On the other hand, the Raven 28 can accommodate two additional large notebooks, given that the laptop resides in a separate compartment. When it comes to bulkier items like a camera cube or lunch box, the Raven 28 offers more ease in fitting them. Although the Raven 20 can still technically hold a camera cube or lunch box, it's a much tighter fit.

For travel purposes, the Raven 20 can hold a pair of shoes and a change of clothes, while the Raven 28 provides significantly more space for quick trips (2-3 days of packing). We found the Raven 28 easier to use with packing cubes.

Which Fjallraven Raven Size Should You Buy?

Fjallraven Raven 20

Fjallraven Raven 28

Choose the Fjällräven Raven 20 if... You want a backpack with a smaller footprint when worn. The Raven 20 is generally recommend for shorter people who don't like the look of a bulky backpack. With the exception of the laptop compartment on the Raven 28, you are getting most of the same exact pockets, making the Raven 20 a great choice for those who want a small pack to organize their daily essentials.

Choose the Fjällräven Raven 28 if... You want a full-featured pack with enough room for many large school books and notebooks or to use as a travel pack for short trips. The 28 liter size is also better for carrying bulkier items like a lunchbox or camera cube. Last but not least, if having a separate laptop compartment is important to you, then the Raven 28 is the way to go.

More Helpful Fjallraven Comparisons:

• Fjallraven Kanken Classic vs Laptop

• Fjallraven Kanken Classic vs Mini

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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

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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

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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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Timbuk2 Authority vs Division Backpack in 2024 - Which is better?

Timbuk2 is a brand best known for their messenger bags but they also offer some great everyday backpack options. Out of their entire lineup, it's safe to say that the Authority and Division are their most popular models.

In this backpack comparison we will take a closer look at the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe and see how it stacks up to the Division Laptop Backpack Deluxe. Although these bags have a lot in common, the real differences in the details.

One backpack is made for those who need lots of organization while the other gives you a simple carry style. Which one is the perfect backpack for your needs? Let's find out.

Video Review

Quick Specs

	Authority Deluxe	Division Deluxe
Volume	20L	18L
Materials	Recycled nylon	Recycled nylon
Laptop Compartment	Up to 17" laptop	Up to 15" laptop
2nd Padded Sleeve	Yes, in main compartment	Yes, in main compartment
Organizer Compartment	Yes	No
Water Bottle Pocket	Yes	Yes
Sternum Strap	Yes	Yes
Waist Belt	No	No
Price

Size: Timbuk2 Authority vs Division Backpacks

The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe laptop backpack is larger than the Division and leaves a larger footprint on the back when worn. We found that shorter people will find the Division to be a better fit.

• Authority Dimensions: 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.31"

• Division Dimensions: 17.3" x 10.6" x 5.12"

As for internal capacity, the Authority gives you 20 liters while the Division only gives you 18 liters. Timbuk2 has changed the capacity of these backpacks in 2023. So if you see the old capacities of 28 liters for the Authority and 21 liters for the Division, this is why. In our opinion the new capacities better reflect the main sections of these backpacks.

Although the Authority backpack has a larger capacity, we will explain later on why the Division might be a better choice for people who carry bulky items.

Materials and Comfort

Both Timbuk2 backpacks use the same materials and offer the same amount of water resistance. You can expect the same recycled nylon external material with a waterproof boot bottom. The compression strap buckles are made of plastic.

We are really impressed with the back panel and shoulder straps. The signature Timbuk2 back panel has a unique "bubble" padded design that is very comfortable. As a result, both the Division and Authority pack feel about the same when worn. Each backpack also includes an adjustable sternum strap that can be removed.

Additionally, both the Timbuk2 Authority and Division feature a trolley sleeve, making them convenient for attaching to wheeled luggage while traveling.

To say these backpacks feel the same is an understatement. They feel nearly identical from zippers to shoulder straps.

Authority vs Division: Exterior Pockets

Where we start to see a huge difference is in the number of pockets. The Authority brings the heat with a few front compartments for organization. The first pocket is a top pocket that can fit sunglasses or a cell phone. Below this pocket is a another pocket that includes a key keeper leash.

The Division only gives you one exterior utility pocket on the front. This pocket covers the entire front panel and is where you key keeper leash is located. Other than this front pocket, the Division does not include any other outside pockets.

It's safe to say that if you want a backpack with lots of pockets - go with the Authority Deluxe Backpack.

Water Bottle Pockets

Both backpacks include a single side water bottle holder. We found that the largest water bottle we can fit inside is a slim 24oz bottle. Unfortunately, these water bottle pockets are too small for larger bottles. So if you have larger 32oz or 40oz bottles, they will not fit.

Rear Laptop Compartment

The last compartment is the rear laptop compartment. The big difference here is that the Authority pack can fit a laptop up to 17-inches while the Division can only fit a 15-inch laptop. There is also a second padded sleeve that can be found inside the main compartments, but we will get to that later.

Timbuk2 Authority: Organizer Compartment

A huge difference between these two bags is the extra front compartment in the Authority pack that is missing on the Division. This compartment features an organizer panel for small items like pens and chargers.

The organizer compartment can open pretty wide thanks to two elastic gussets. It's also large enough to fit notebooks, a light jacket and other bigger items. One of the main ways to decided between these two backpacks is to ask if you need an organizer panel for quick access to small items. The Authority pack makes is super easy to organize and quickly grab stuff like pens, chargers and other small bits and bobs.

The Division pack doesn't give you these small pockets other than a large general utility pocket on the front with a key fob.

Authority vs Division: Main Compartment

Want to know the secret difference between the Timbuk2 Authority and Division? It's the main compartment sizes.

The main compartment in the Authority is longer and wider than the one in the Division. But! The main compartment in the Authority is slimmer than the one in the 18L Division.

This means that we could only fit a few binders and notebooks in the Authority before running out room. And if we wanted to fit a jacket, we had to divide our carry and place the jacket inside the organizer compartment. With the Division, we could fit our binders, notebooks AND jacket inside the main compartment just fine.

Instead of giving you one large 20 liter main compartment, the Authority instead splits its space between the organizer compartment and the main compartment. This means you'll have to divide your carry if you run out of space in the main compartment.

What does this mean for you? If you need to carry bulky items like a lunch box or camera cube, go with the Division. The main compartment in the Authority is just too slim for those kind of bulky items. For short trips, we found it much easier to pack the Division backpack because it gave us much more wide open room. The main compartment on the Division also gives you elastic gussets so that you can open it nice and wide for packing.

Second Padded Sleeve

Both backpacks also include a padded sleeve inside their main compartments. We found that we could easily fit a second laptop or tablet inside these sleeves, turning these Timbuk2 packs into dual laptop backpacks.

Compression Straps

The last major difference between the Timbuk2 Division and Authority packs are the location of the compression straps.

The Timbuk2 Authority has its compression straps on the bottom. These straps allow you to attach bulkier gear like a jacket or blanket.

The Timbuk2 Division has side compression straps. These straps aren't useful for attaching extra items but it allows the bottom of the bag to stay nice and flat. The one gripe we have is that you have to unbuckle these comression straps whenever you want to fully open the main compartment. This can get pretty annoying if you need quick access.

Which Timbuk2 Backpack Should You Buy?

Timbuk2 Authority

Timbuk2 Division

Choose the Timbuk2 Authority if... you need a work and travel backpack with great pockets for organization. Where the Timbuk2 Authority shines is in its organization. You also have the advantage of using the bottom compression straps to hold bulkier gear when needed.

Choose the Timbuk2 Division if... you want a smaller laptop bag with a minimalist style. The Timbuk2 Division doesn't clutter you with too many pockets and gives you a cleaner look as a result. The main compartment is also functionally larger. This makes the Division the better choice if you need to carry bulkier gear like a lunch box, clothing or many notebooks and books.

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Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 in 2024 - What's the difference?

Introducing the Knack Pack Expandable Backpack by Knack Bags. These innovative backpacks allow you to seamlessly transition between daily use and travel thanks to an expandable luggage compartment. Now the question arises: Which Series should you choose?

Knack Bags has recently given both their Series 1: Medium Expandable Knack Pack and Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack a few upgrades. In this backpack showdown, we'll explore what the real differences are so that you can make an informed decision and find the perfect Knack Pack for your needs. Let the comparison begin!

Video Review

Quick Specs

	Series 1 Knack Pack (Medium)	Series 2 Knack Pack (Medium)
Volume	27-39L	24-35L
Material	1200D Two-Tone Polyester	420D High Density Nylon
Laptop Compartment	Up to 15" laptop	Up to 15" laptop
Tablet Sleeve	Yes, in main compartment	Yes, in main compartment
Water Bottle Pocket	Up to 24oz Bottle	Up to 21oz Bottle
Sternum Strap	Yes	Yes
Waist Belt	No	No
Price

Series 1 vs Series 2 Medium Knack Pack: Capacity and Size

When it comes to external dimensions, both the Medium Knack Pack Series 1 and 2 will have the same dimensions when compressed.

• Series 1: Medium Expandable Knack Pack - 19" x 12" x 4.5"

• Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack - 19" x 12" x 4.5"

When expanded the Series 1 will stick out a little more by a half an inch.

• Series 1: Medium Expandable Knack Pack: 19" x 12" x 9.5" (expanded)

• Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack: 19" x 12" x 9" (expanded)

Although both Knack Packs have near identical dimensions, we were surprised to find that the Series 1 gives you more internal packing room overall.

• Series 1 Medium: 27L (main compartment) + 12L (packing compartment) = 39L total

• Series 2 Medium: 24L (main compartment) + 11L (packing compartment) = 35L total

You can see the capacity difference in the design of the main compartments. The main compartment in the Series 1 is bucket shaped which makes it easier to stack small items inside the main compartment.

While the Series 2 has a slimmer main compartment with a more wide-open design. Part of the reason the Series 2 has less internal packing room is because it has an extra organizer compartment in the front that cuts into that packing space.

Overall, if you want the backpack with the most wide open packing room - the Series 1 is the clear winner.

Materials and Comfort

The Series 1 and Series 2 Knack Packs use different fabrics that give them a very unique look and feel.

The Knack Pack Series 1 uses 1200D two-tone polyester on the outside. This thick and robust fabric that feels more like a fancy suit jacket than it does your average polyester backpack. It's a handsome fabric, and even after two years of use, the fabric on our original Series 1 Knack Pack still looks great.

While the Series 2 uses 420D nylon, a tight-weaved nylon that is commonly used in higher end backpacks. This fabric has a slight sheen to it and gives the bag an upscale look that pairs well with professional settings.

As for comfort, you won't notice a difference since they both use identical padded foam back panels and shoulder straps with an adjustable sternum strap to help with heavier loads. Both the Knack Pack Series 1 and Series 2 feel near identical when worn.

Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2: Pockets and Compartments

Exterior Pockets

Both bags are going to have the same 15-inch padded laptop compartment against the back panel and a hidden water bottle pocket on the side of the bag. When we tested the water bottle pockets, we found that the Series 1 can fit slightly large bottles.

• Series 1 Medium Knack Pack: Up 24oz bottle

• Series 2 Medium Knack Pack: Up to 21oz bottle

Where you'll notice a big difference is in the front pockets. The Knack Pack Series 1 features a variety of front pockets for quick access to smaller items. There is a fleece-lined pocket at the top, which can hold a phone and sunglasses. In the middle, there is a V-shaped compartment packed with smaller pockets for business cards. Finally, at the bottom, there is a pocket for easy access to chargers, cables and pens.

What the Series 2 has done is combine all of these separate pockets into one large organizer compartment. This compartment features the same top fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses and business card pockets but adds dedicated pen pockets and an extra mesh pocket for even more organization.

Aside from more pockets in total, the Series 2 also gives you a lockable zipper for added security. The separate pockets on the Series 1 are not lockable.

If you are looking for the backpack with the most number of pockets for organization, then the Knack Pack Series 2 is the one you'll want to get.

Expandable Packing Compartment

What makes a Knack Pack special is its expandable backpack design. This is what makes it such a winning design for business travelers who want just one bag for the office and short trips.

Although the expandable luggage compartment is a little larger on the Series 1, it's not that much larger. You could only fit an extra t-shirt or a couple of pairs of extra socks in the Series 1 expandable compartment.

Both expandable compartments are near identical in size and where you'll see the biggest difference in packing room is in the main compartments.

Series 2 Knack Pack Upgrades

Knack Bags has sprinkled the Knack Pack Series 2 with some great upgrades that are worth a review.

Side Handle

The Series 1 and Series 2 both have the ability to hide the shoulder straps behind the back panel. But only the Series 2 gives you a side handle so that you can carry the bag like a briefcase. This is great for days when you want to look more professional. The Series 1 only has a with a top handle and can not be carried on its side.

Hidden Compartment

Another great Series 2 upgrade is the hidden compartment behind the back panel for valuables like a passport, wallet or other items you want to keep away from sticky fingers. This secret compartment is missing on the Series 1.

New Key Leash Location

The removable key leash has been moved to the front organizer compartment on the Series 2. On the Series 1, the removable key leash is located inside the main compartment. This location makes it harder to quickly grab your keys when the bag is full.

Which Knack Pack Should You Buy?

Series 1: Expandable Knack Pack

Series 2: Expandable Knack Pack

Choose the Knack Pack Series 1 if... you need a work and travel backpack but prefer more internal packing room for bulkier items over smaller pockets for organization. The Series 1 also comes in more sizes (Small, Medium and Large) for a more customized fit.

Choose the Knack Pack Series 2 if... you need a backpack with as many pockets as possible for organization and would like the beefed up security with lockable zippers and a hidden pocket for valuables. The Series 2 will be a better fit for those who value a clean minimalist look over the busier design of the Series 1.

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Best Backpacks with Shoe Compartments - Tested and Reviewed!

Whether you need a reliable backpack for the gym, work or travel having a backpack with a shoe compartment is the easiest way to carry an extra pair of shoes from point A to B.

In this buying guide we test almost a dozen backpacks to find out which ones float to the top. We like the King Kong EDGE as a dedicated gym pack and Pacsafe EXP35 for its great anti-theft features. We also feature our favorite backpacks with shoe compartments for work, travel and those on a budget to make sure there is something that matches your carry needs.

Video Review

Overview: Our Top Picks

KING KONG EDGE

Versatile work, travel and gym backpack with shoe compartment.

The King Kong EDGE is a sleek, durable and feature-packed gym backpack with shoe compartment that has quickly become one of our favorites. This is thanks to its large 35-liter main compartment that’s perfect for training gear like weight lifting belts, boxing gloves and other bulkier items. On light duty days the magnetic buckle side straps allow you to compress the backpack for a sleeker profile.

But the King Kong EDGE is more than just a gym bag! Features like a separate admin compartment, 17” laptop compartment and multiple organizer pockets also give it the ability to turn into a work or travel backpack when you need it. Whether you are packing for a workout day, weekend trip or a busy work week - the EDGE will have all of the room you need to conquer it all in style!

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 35L

• Huge padded 17” laptop compartment

• Large pack-flat clamshell main compartment with plenty of internal pockets

• Versatile: gym, work, daily or travel bag

• 25 Year Warranty

• Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket

PACSAFE EXP35

A travel backpack with an innovative anti-theft design, plenty of storage and a convenient shoe compartment.

The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 backpack is perfect for those who need a travel backpack with a shoe compartment that has the features to also adapt to work commutes and gym days.

Some of its best features include a tough duffle-inspired construction, an amazing array of organization pockets and an advanced anti-theft design to keep your gear safe from theft, pick-pockets and RFID attacks. The Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 can be best described as the “Fort Knox” of backpacks and it showcases a gold-standard in anti-theft design.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 35L

• Padded 16” laptop sleeve

• Serious anti-theft design with self-locking zippers, anti-slash fabric and RFID-blocking pockets

• Lots of pockets to organize passports, pens, keys and smaller items.

• Shoe Compartment: bottom pocket

UNDER ARMOUR HUSTLE 5.0

Buy on Amazon

Affordable backpack for sports and school with lots of storage and shoe pocket.

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is a roomy 29-liter backpack with plenty of organization and a clever shoe compartment that is accessed through the bottom of the bag. This backpack is perfect for those who need a reliable school or sports backpack without breaking the bank.

But despite its affordable price, the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to features. Small details like fleece lined laptop and valuables pockets, water resistant exterior fabric and metal zippers allows the Hustle to punch above its class.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 29L

• Available in over a dozen colors

• Laptop sleeve fits up to 15” MacBook Pro

• Roomy main compartment and secondary admin compartment for smaller items

• Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket

More Great Backpacks We Tested

Public Rec Pro Pack Plus

A stylish office-friendly backpack with separate compartments for work and travel packing.

The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus makes a great backpack with a shoe compartment because it doesn’t scream “gym backpack” - instead it offers a minimalist exterior that is clean enough to wear to the office while at the same time offering incredible daily organization.

Along with a sneaky hidden shoe pocket, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus offers a clever partitioned design that allows you to keep your travel (or gym) packing and work items completely separated. This means no rummaging through sweatpants to get to your work laptop. Throughout the backpack you’ll also find lots of sweet features like an easy-access phone pocket, water bottle pockets and water resistant materials and zippers for peace of mind on rainy days.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 26.5L

• Separate rear “work” and front “packing” compartments

• 15” padded laptop sleeve and separate tablet sleeve

• Versatile design can be used for commuting, gym or travel

• Water resistant design

• Shoe compartment: bottom pocket

Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack

Sleek low-profile backpack with shoe compartment for those who want just one “everything” bag.

The Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack is our favorite backpack for work and the gym, thanks to its thoughtful design that offers a seamless transition from a long day at the office to workout sessions. Throughout its design, you’ll find numerous great pockets for organizing your daily essentials within a water-resistant construction that keeps your most important items safe on rainy days.

Travel-specific features like a luggage trolley sleeve and handles for easy access in overhead compartments also make the Dayfarer V2 an easy pick for flights. The bottom shoe compartment is just one of the many fantastic features in a long array of clever pockets for items like toiletries and gym gear, making the Modern Dayfarer V2 a true “everything backpack” in one streamlined package.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 24L

• 16” laptop compartment protected with water resistant zipper

• Tough water resistant construction

• Lots of internal pockets for organization

• Shoe compartment: Bottom pocket

KING KONG PLUS26

A rugged feature-packed gym backpack with exterior shoe pocket.

With the PLUS26, King Kong offers a heavy-hitter that really shines in a sea of mediocre gym bags. This backpack just makes sense. For one, the shoe pocket is found on the front of the backpack instead of the inside. This means better ventilation for your shoes while also avoiding taking up precious space in the main compartment.

There is also the dual access 26-liter main compartment that is just large enough for your gym essentials without making the bag too bulky for daily carry. The main compartment has a top-loading access zipper for daily use while the back zipper allows for full clamshell access to the inside. It’s design features like these that makes the King Kong PLUS26 easily one of our favorite gym backpacks.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 26L

• Padded laptop sleeve

• 25 year guarantee

• Dual-access main compartment (top loading and clamshell)

• Shoe compartment: External front pocket

TROUBADOUR PIONEER

Buy on Amazon

A refined work, gym and travel backpack with shoe compartment.

The Troubadour Pioneer is perfect for someone who wants a backpack with a shoe compartment with a sophisticated professional design and premium materials. At 23.5 liters the Pioneer is the most compact and streamlined out of any of the backpacks we have tested but this could really work for those in more professional environments where carrying a bulky backpack isn’t an option.

Despite its minimalist exterior, the Troubadour Pioneer is packed full of pockets and compartments for organization. The main compartment has a great variety of zippered pockets and smaller slip pockets to organize you daily work items. On the outside you’ll find even more pockets for quick-access to essentials.

The bottom shoe compartment offers a discreet way to carry shoes or extra clothing and can easily fit up to a size 12 (US) pair of men’s running shoes. This is also one of the only backpacks we have tested that features built-in vents to allow the compartment to breathe to prevent the trapping of stinky odors. Although a small detail it makes all of the difference!

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 23.5L

• 17” laptop sleeve that can be accessed with dedicated side zipper

• Great internal pockets for organizing daily work items

• Sleek professional design with water resistant construction

• Shoe compartment: bottom pocket

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Our Research

• Who is This Guide For

• How We Tested

• Types of Shoe Compartment Backpacks

• Best Gym Backpack: King Kong EDGE

• Best Travel Backpack: Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35

• Budget Pick: Under Armour Hustle 5.0

• Best for Work and Travel: Public Rec Pro Pack Plus

• Best for Work and Gym: Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack

• Other Backpacks with Shoe Pockets to Consider

• Shoe Carry Alternatives

Who is This Guide For

There is a wide variety of people who may need a reliable backpack with a shoe compartment and we hade three specific types of people in mind.

Athletes and Gym Go-ers

Sports and gym backpacks offer sportier casual design often with activity-specific features such as sports equipment, pockets for balls and accommodation for protective gear like gloves and pads. The most important feature in a sports and gym backpack is the main compartment and whether or not your specific gear will be able to fit inside of it.

If you find yourself changing into your workout shoes at your destination to the gym or sports practice then you a sports or gym backpack with a shoe compartment may be what you need to separate your shoes from the rest of your clean items during transport.

Although there are tons of different types of athletic shoes, the backpacks we reviewed here all can fit running shoes, trainers and cleats.

Travelers

Traveling with shoes calls for a backpack with a shoe compartment. It’s the simplest way to pack with shoes and keep them separate from clean items. Shoe compartments also double as laundry compartment and give you the ability to separate your dirty clothing from your clean items during your trip. Say goodbye to packing extra laundry bags!

Travel backpacks are usually larger (30L+) than everyday laptop backpacks to accommodate for travel packing. Our favorite travel backpacks open like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking or feature expandable compartments for even more versatility.

Besides the larger capacity, the main difference between a travel backpack and a daily bag is its emphasis on security and travel features. Examples include lockable zippers, pockets for a passport, extra exterior handles and a trolley sleeve for attaching the bag to rolling luggage. If you are planning on using your backpack primarily for travel then going with a travel-specific backpack with a shoe compartment may be the way to go.

One Bag For Work and Gym/Travel

If you find yourself often switching between a daily carry backpack for work and a secondary backpack for gym or travel then you may benefit from a hybrid backpack that combines the best features of each.

A work and gym backpack will have everything you need for your daily work carry plus extra features for your workout gear such as a shoe compartment, water bottle pockets and extra storage for a change of clothing. 

A work and travel backpack will often have extra security features such as lockable zippers and RFID-safe pockets as well as the space to accommodate for travel packing while still offering the daily carry features you need for commutes to work.

Unlike backpacks dedicated to the gym or travel, these versatile bags offer a more refined business casual backpack design that won’t look out of place at the office and are usually smaller in size (under 30L) for a more compact look.

How We Tested These Backpacks

We spent a few months researching different backpacks with shoe compartments before compiling our final list. This included real world use as well as testing in our studio to make sure each bag delivered in its promised performance. With each backpack we asked a serious of questions to help us determine its quality.

Is the shoe pocket roomy enough?

We tested each backpack with a women’s size 8 and a men’s size 12 (US sizes) running shoes to judge the roominess of each shoe compartment.

The men’s shoes we used measured 12.5” in length and 4.5” in width. You can use these measurements to compare with your own shoes or use a handy shoe size conversion guide to determine how much room your shoes will take up in comparison. 

All of the backpacks tested must at least be able to fit a men’s size 12 running shoes inside the shoe compartment in order to be included in our picks. This provides a guaranteed fit for readers with smaller shoe sizes. In addition, all of our original photography showcases the shoe compartment with a men’s size 12 sneakers so that you can easily compare each compartment.

Note: Boots and larger shoes were not used to test the shoe compartments and we cannot guarantee that the shoe compartments in the backpacks tested will be roomy enough to fit shoes larger than a men’s size 12. If you have questions about whether larger shoes will fit, please contact the respective backpack brand for more information.

Is it a good quality backpack?

In addition to having a shoe pocket, we took construction quality and comfort into consideration when rating and reviewing each backpack.

• Construction Materials - Backpacks with great zipper quality, robust stitching, and quality fabrics such a nylon floated to the top. A great backpack should feel as good as it looks.

• Water Resistant Construction - Water resistant outer materials and zippers were a huge plus when choosing these backpacks.

• Comfortable Back Panel and Shoulder Straps - adequately padded shoulder straps, padded back panels and the inclusion of chest straps all tied into our ratings.

Is the backpack well designed?

Those looking for a backpack with a shoe compartment usually fall into two categories:

• Gym backpacks with a shoe compartment

• Travel backpacks with a shoe compartment

Most backpacks with shoe pockets can be used for both gym and travel despite the brand marketing specifying one or the other. With this in mind, we tested each backpack for both daily carry situations (work, school) and for travel/gym carry.

Below is a sample of the items we used when testing each backpack:

Daily Carry (Work/School)

• Laptop (and tablet if backpack had a tablet sleeve)

• 3-subject notebook and 1-inch binder

• Pens and pencils

• Tech chargers (laptop and phone charge, misc cables)

• Cell Phone

• Apple Airpods or other earbuds

Travel/Gym Carry

• Shoes in shoe compartment

• 1-3x change of clothing

• Toiletries bag

• For gym: boxing gloves, weight lifting belt and gloves, resistant bands, jump rope, towel

The best backpack with a shoe pocket can carry all of the above and is versatile enough to use as a daily carry backpack as well as a gym or travel bag. What this means is that you can’t go wrong with our top 3 selections and choosing comes down to style preferences and the need for specific features such as exterior laptop compartments or trolley sleeves for attaching the backpack to luggage.

Other important features that determined our likeliness to recommend include the following:

• Water bottle pockets

• Padded laptop and tablet sleeves

• Smaller pockets for organization

• Main compartment size (~30L seems to be the sweet spot for travel/gym carry)

Types of Shoe Compartment Backpacks

There are three common types of backpacks with shoe compartments and each one is a little different. Below is a helpful explanation of each type so you know the difference when shopping for a new backpack. 

FRONT ACCESS

Front access backpacks have a front loading shoe pocket that is separate from the main compartment. The main compartment and shoe compartment is usually divided by polyester or nylon material. Some backpacks do a good job at separating the two compartments but others may take up space in the main compartment if the shoe pocket is filled.

Many people prefer shoe compartments with front access because they can retrieve their shoes without having to completely pick up the bag or lay it flat. Another pro of having front access is that the bottom stays flat when set down on the ground. Bottom compartments can make the bag bottom uneven when filled with shoes. 

BOTTOM COMPARTMENT

Bottom Compartment backpacks place a compartment on the bottom of the bag that is completely separate from the main compartment. Unlike backpacks with bottom access or front access shoe compartments, a backpack with a bottom compartment does not dig into the main compartment as its being filled because it has it’s own reserved space. 

One thing to note with bottom compartment backpacks is that their main compartments may be smaller due to the addition of the bottom compartment. 

BOTTOM ACCESS

Bottom access shoe compartment backpacks usually have a zipper entry at the very bottom of the backpack that opens up to a shoe compartment. The difference between a bottom compartment backpack and bottom access shoe compartment backpack is that the bottom access bag share the storage space with the main compartment. 

Like front access shoe compartment backpacks, the shoe compartment and main compartment is divided by polyester or nylon fabric.

Best Gym Backpack with Shoe Compartment: King Kong EDGE

King Kong EDGE35

Why We Chose This Backpack

The King Kong EDGE feels like one of the most complete bags on our list thanks to its versatile design and clever pocket placement. It’s 35L main compartment is roomy enough for gym packing of bulky training gear and is also large enough for serious travel packing. Since this backpack opens like a suitcase, it’s super easy to pack your items while having a birds-eye view of all the pockets that line the inside.

As a daypack you can simply cinch side compression straps down the to reduce the EDGE’s size. A separate admin compartment on the front and a laptop compartment in the rear provide you with great organization of everyday carry.

Out of all of the bags we have tested the EDGE definitely felt the most heavy-duty with robust fabrics and beefy zippers throughout. This is the kind of bag you wouldn’t feel bag about tossing around in the gym and the top and side handles makes it easy to do just that!

Video Review - King Kong EDGE

WATCH NOW

Large open-flat main compartment

Finding a backpack with a bottom compartment for shoe storage can be a challenge for those who carry bulkier items like boxing gloves and headgear without resorting to a gym duffel bag. Thankfully King Kong has designed the “Goldilocks” of gym backpacks that is just the right size for your workout gear without looking ridiculously large when worn.

This is thanks to its large 35-liter clamshell main compartment that allows you to lay the backpack flat for easy packing and unpacking. The main compartment is also lined with mesh pockets so you can organize clothing and smaller items while keeping the rest of the main compartment open for larger items.

On light carry days the side Fidlock magnetic straps can compress the backpack down for an even slimmer profile while still allowing you full access to the top, bottom, laptop and admin compartments for daily essentials.

The Shoe Compartment

The shoe pocket on the King Kong EDGE is a bottom access pocket which means that the pocket will cut into the main compartment’s capacity when used. This is the most common configuration you’ll find when looking for a backpack with shoe compartment. For a different front loading shoe pocket design we recommend the King Kong Plus26 backpack.

The EDGE’s bottom shoe pocket is very roomy and can easily fit larger men’s sneakers/trainers. We successfully fit men’s size 12 running shoes into this pocket with room to spare.

There is also another similar yet smaller pocket on the top of the backpack that can be used for smaller shoes or bulkier items that you need quick access to.

Durability meets sleek design

King Kong has really succeeded in offering a backpack that feels as good as it looks. The bag itself is made out of a tough 1000D Nylon while the inside features a 210D Ripstop Nylon lining to prevent rips and tears.

The hardware is also high quality with each pocket using premium YKK zippers and the side compression straps featuring magnetic Fidlock quick release buckles. The bag just feels nice which goes a long way when using the backpack day in and day out.

Tech Carry

One of the features of the King Kong EDGE that we really like is the large laptop compartment that has its own separate zipper access. The padded laptop compartment located against the back panel can fit a whopping 17-inch laptop making the EDGE ideal for those looking for a quality gym laptop backpack with shoe compartment.

For tech accessories like cables and chargers the front admin compartment gives you plenty of pockets to organize smaller items with ease.

Best Travel Backpack with Shoe Compartment: Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35

Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35

Why We Chose This Backpack

We like to describe the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 as the Fort-Knox of backpacks. The anti-theft features are incredible and although we could try to list them all here (we try) it’s probably just best to check out the Pacsafe website to learn more about each specific technology.

But we will say this - although many travel backpacks have lockable zippers, few have ones that lock themselves. The anti-theft zippers on the Venturesafe EXP35 work right out of the box without having to worry about bringing your own TSA locks.

The overall design on the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 is great for those who value organization and discretion. Special pockets for valuable items like a phone, wallet or passport is tucked away and not easily reachable to sticky fingers. The 3-sided zipper to the main compartment is also a great touch that we appreciate when packing for a trip. Unlike traditional top-loading backpacks, the 3-sided zipper feels more like suitcase packing and of course the bottom shoe compartment adds much needed seperation of dirty and clean items while traveling.

Video Review - Pacsafe EXP35

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Pockets and Organization

Organization is one of the things the Venturesafe EXP35 does best and it’s hard to disagree once you delve into all of its pockets and compartments.

The dedicated compartments for organization give you everything you need to neatly store smaller items. The zippered pocket on the front gives you quick-access to airpods, sunglasses or a wallet thanks to an included special RFID-protected pocket. If you want to be extra sneaky, you can use the admin panel zippered pocket inside the main compartment to keep important items like a passport or cash. This discrete compartment kind of blends into the main compartment wall to obscure its presence.

To access your laptop simply use the zipper against the back panel, no need to rummage through your main compartment like with other bags. But of course with Pacsafe being Pacsafe, the laptop compartment also has a locking zipper for peace of mind.

Water bottles can easily be stashed in the big stretchy mesh side pockets. These pockets can easily fit larger bottles and the side compression straps don’t hinder what you can carry inside (simply expand the compression strap to accommodate a larger bottle).

The Main Compartment

One feature we love about the EXP35 is its 3-sided zipper that gives you clamshell access to the main compartment for easy packing and unpacking. From workout gear to your favorite t-shirt, the EXP35 makes it super easy to find what you need inside quickly when the main compartment is wide open.

Having a light carry day? No problem! The EXP35’s compression straps allow you to compress the bag down on days where you only need the essentials.

Although the 35-liter main compartment is enough to pack for short trips, the shoe compartment does take up room in the main compartment when utilized. As a result you can expect to fit 3-4 days of clothing and toiletries when the shoe compartment is empty and 1-2 days of clothing and toiletries when storing shoes.

Anti-Theft Features

We can’t talk about PacSafe backpacks without mentioning their incredible anti-theft features. The PacSafe Venturesafe EXP35 is not only built like a tank but makes it easy to keep your gear safe without a second thought - something most other gym backpacks don’t consider in their design.

The exterior of the EXP35 is made with eXomesh slashguard fabric that prevents cuts and slashes from tearing through the fabric. Each zipper on this backpack is also self-locking so that its harder for thieves to gain access to the inside. Opportunity makes the thief after all. 

One of the shoulder straps is also equipped with a PopNLock security clip so that you can secure your EXP35 to a fixed object like a table leg to prevent theft if you were ever to leave your bag unattended in a busy cafe or other public space.

If you are looking for a travel backpack with a shoe compartment that means business - we think its safe to say that the PacSafe Venturesafe EXP35 is definitely up your alley.

What We Don’t Like

One feature we would have liked to have seen was a dedicated tablet sleeve. There is no comfortable pocket to store a tablet outside of letting it sit in the main compartment or using the laptop compartment.

Like other backpacks with compression straps, you will have to unclip the compression straps whenever you want to open the main compartment completely. But the saving grace is that if you position the zippers at the top you can always access the main compartment like you would a regular top-loading backpack.

The above are certainly not design flaws but small gripes from using the backpack. For a travel backpack with a shoe compartment the Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 feel thoughtfully designed and intuitive to use. And its great anti-theft features is what really puts it in a league of its own.

Budget Pick For Sports and School: Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack

Under Armour Hustle 5.0

Why We Chose this Backpack

The Under Armour Hustle checks a lot of boxes when it comes to a good sports backpack with a shoe compartment. It’s roomy 29-liter capacity makes it a good mid-sized pack for those who need room for sports gear like balls, shoes and clothing. 

It’s also an affordable pack - you can usually grab one for $55 and if you are lucky you can catch it on sale at a reduced price. This makes it perfect for students on a budget who need a reliable backpack for both class and team practice after school.

As a standalone backpack for school you’ll have plenty of pockets for organizing stuff like pens and chargers plus the main compartment is roomy enough for multiple large books, notebooks and binders. The 15-inch laptop sleeve also keeps your tech safe thanks to its soft-touch lining to prevent scratches.

Video Review - Under Armour Hustle 5.0

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Pockets and Compartments

Where the Under Armour Hustle really shines is with its pockets and compartments. The bag can be divided into three major compartments: the main compartments, the front admin compartment and the bottom shoe compartment.

The main compartment is where the bulk of your carry will live and we found it roomy enough to carry multiple large notebooks, books and binders. If you plan on using the UA Hustle primarily as a sports backpack then you’ll be pleased to know that the main compartment is large enough for a size 7 basketball.  

A secondary front admin compartment hosts lots of smaller slip pockets for items like pens, tech chargers and other bits and bobs. This compartment is also large enough to hold smaller notebooks and books.

On the outside of the pack you’ll find a smaller fleece-lined pocket for a phone or sunglasses and two mesh water bottle pockets. We found that these bottle pockets can fit up to a 32oz Nalgene bottle just fine.

Another cool detail is the addition of small attachment loops and D-Rings on the shoulder straps that allows extra gear like carabiners and keys to be attached in an easy to reach spot. Under Armour is known for adding small details like these to their backpack designs that really add to the daily carry experience. 

If you are looking for a sports backpack with a shoe compartment that can also double as your daily school bookbag, then the Under Armour Hustle is your best option out of all of the backpacks we have tested. Not only is it affordable but it has features catered to student athletes who need to partition their school and sports items.

The Shoe Compartment

The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 is perfect for both athletes with busy schedules and fitness buffs who need a reliable gym backpack with shoe storage. The shoe pocket on the Hustle 5.0 is located at the bottom of the bag and is large enough to hold a small pair of sneakers and some extras or one pair men’s sneakers up to a US size twelve.

Like most gym backpacks with a shoe compartment, the main compartment and shoe compartment share the same space. This means reduced room in the main compartment when you are carrying shoes in the bottom pocket.

What We Don’t Like

When comparing the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 to the other backpacks tested there is a pretty large gap in terms of quality. The polyester construction is very lightweight and doesn’t feel as robust as heavier fabrics. Maybe we are spoiled but the UA Hustle definitely feels every bit of a cheaper backpack and because of this we wouldn’t be our first choice out of the bags we tested.

Another gripe is with the back panel. It it just a solid panel of mesh foam with no cut outs or air channels for breathability. We can see this being a nuisance in the hot weather months where a lack of airflow is less forgiving. This back panel isn’t terrible but it definitely could be better.

Best Backpack For Work And Travel: Public Rec Pro Pack Plus

Public Rec Pro Pack Plus

Why We Chose This Backpack

Public Rec advertises the Pro Pack Plus as the perfect work and travel backpack, and we agree that it checks all the boxes.

With a capacity of 27.5L, the Pro Pack Plus works well as a single bag for short work trips. Its structured design is well-suited for those who need a backpack with a bottom compartment while still maintaining a sleek and professional look during office days.

The biggest strength of the Pro Pack Plus is its partitioned design, which allows you to keep your gym or travel packing completely separate from your work items. This means no rummaging through sweatpants to get to your laptop or pens.

Not only is the Pro Pack Plus a functional workhorse for daily carry, but it also feels as good as it looks. The shoulder straps and back panel are generously padded, and the zippers are buttery smooth. Plus, the water-resistant poly-twill fabric, structured construction, and minimalist branding will give you a mature, professional look day in and day out.

Video Review - Public Rec Pro Pack Plus

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Partitioned Compartments

The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus can be divided into two major compartments: the main packing compartment and the rear "work" compartment. The main compartment is where you will find the majority of your storage. This compartment is large and deep, allowing you to pack bulkier items for workouts or travel. We found that you can easily pack for a 2-3 day trip.

The rear "work" compartment can be thought of as your home base for daily work carry. Here, you’ll find a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a secondary sleeve for a tablet. A nice array of mesh and slip pockets will also give you the organization you need for smaller items like pens and tech chargers.

What we appreciate about this rear compartment is that it’s roomy enough also store a notebook or binder, giving you the room for comprehensive business carry. This carry division is also why the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus excels when it comes to work/travel or work/gym carry.

Exterior Pockets

Along with great exterior organization, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus also offers some excellent external pockets. On the top, you’ll find a pocket for your sunglasses or phone, while two water bottle slip pockets cradle the sides of the bag. Commuters and travelers alike will appreciate the hidden zippered pocket found against the back panel, which allows you to discreetly stash a passport, cash, or a phone.

The Shoe Compartment

Unlike other backpacks with shoe compartments, the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus keeps its shoe pocket discrete and semi-hidden at the bottom of the backpack. The bottom panel itself hosts a wrap-around zipper to reveal the shoe pocket inside.

We found that a men’s size 12 (US) running shoe fits inside this pocket just fine, but you may struggle to fit larger shoes. Also, keep in mind that the shoe compartment shares internal space with the main compartment. Depending on how large your shoes are, you can expect maybe 40-50% of that main compartment to be taken up by your shoes.

What We Don’t Like

There are very few complaints about the Public Rec Pro Pack Plus, but the one gripe we do have is that the water bottle pockets on the side of the bag are quite small. They have absolutely no give to them, and as a result, you are limited to slim water bottles 24oz and under.

Best Backpack for Work and Gym: Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack

Modern Dayfarer v2 Backpack

Why We Chose this Backpack

Modern Dayfarer designed the V2 backpack to be your one bag for work, gym, and the occasional short trip, and we believe they succeeded in their mission. Its secret weapon is its minimalist design that sneakily hides pockets and compartments. This allows you to maintain a sleek profile during business hours without sacrificing important features.

Despite its understated design, the Modern Dayfarer V2 is jam-packed with incredible features. The main compartment is lined with pockets for clothing, toiletries, and other small items, or you can use the bottom shoe compartment to pack shoes or dirty laundry to keep smelly, soiled items away from your clean stuff. Grab handles and a luggage trolley sleeve make it a great carry-on option for flights. For a small pack, the Modern Dayfarer V2 is really like a Swiss Army knife - and a stylish one at that!

VERSATILITY DEFINED: ONE BAG FOR WORK AND GYM

Modern Dayfarer designed the V2 Backpack for people who need one bag to accommodate their busy lifestyles. For daily work carry, the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack features all of the organization you need to thrive on a busy day. Although hidden, the outside of the pack features pockets for everything from keys and a phone to larger items like headphones and small notebooks. The rear laptop compartment can fit up to a 16” Macbook Pro. Not only is this laptop compartment generously protected with a large suspended false-bottom to protect your tech from drops, but it’s protects from bad weather thanks to a water resistant YKK Aquaguard zipper.

The Shoe Compartment

We tested the shoe compartment on the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack and can confirm that it can fit a men’s size 12 (US) running shoe but the brand says it can fit up to men’s size 14 shoes just fine. This shoe compartment does share space with the main compartment so keep that in mind if you plan on using it when packing for a trip.

A neat design feature is that the main compartment is expandable by a few liters on days when you need more packing room. Simply loosen up the front strap to give the top lid room to expand upwards.

Impressive Quality

Modern Dayfarer isn’t shy about naming the materials they use in each of their bags, and once you get your hands on this backpack, it’s easy to see that they have put a lot of thought into its construction. The external construction is made with water-resistant 840D ballistic nylon, while the inside is lined with a light-colored ripstop for easy spotting of items. Everything from the magnetic Fidlock buckle to the ergonomic shoulder straps feels like top-notch quality.

The water resistance of the Modern Dayfarer V2 is also fantastic. Along with using YKK Aquaguard zippers on exposed zippers, the V2 Backpack features a top lid design that creates a protective barrier for the main compartment against rain and snow.

Unlike other travel backpacks with shoe compartments, the Modern Dayfarer V2 Backpack has a mature and understated design that isn’t too loud or “sporty”. Modern Dayfarer even keeps their branding simple, with just a small black logo badge on the side water bottle pocket. It’s fair to say that the Modern Dayfarer is an excellent work-to-gym backpack that still looks great at the office.

What We Don’t Like About This Backpack

One gripe we have about the Modern Dayfarer V2 is that the bottom of the bag is curved so it doesn’t allow you to set the bag on the ground with toppling over. Also, those who value a chest strap will be disappointed to find out that this bag doesn’t include one and that there is also no option to add on a chest strap or hip belt.

Other Backpacks With Shoe Pockets to Consider

1) Under Armour Triumph Sport Backpack

Under Armour does a great job at designing stylish backpacks with athletes in mind and the Triumph Sport backpack is no exception. As a gym backpack, the Triumph Sport offers great compartments daily essentials and sports gear in a sleek and streamlined design. 

Not only is does this backpack include a special shoe compartment but the MOLLE webbing on the front allows for attachments of pouches to expand your storage. For those who need a bag for work or school, features such as a padded laptop sleeve and organizer pockets make the Under Armor Contain a great work to gym backpack option. If you are looking for a larger backpack with similar features then make sure to check out the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 backpack with shoe storage.

Features at a glance:

• Volume: 34L

• Laptop sleeve holds up to 15” MacBook Pro

• Shoe compartment: Bottom access

2) Trend Urban Gym Backpack (Amazon)

Trend offers a gym backpack with shoe storage that is as stylish as it is functional with their Urban Backpack. The 35-liter main compartment has enough room for all of your daily essentials with plenty of internal pockets for must-have carry like a tablet, tech accessories and smaller personal items. For workouts or travel days, the bottom zip compartment can hold a pair of shoes or dirty laundry to keep everything nice and separate.

Features at a glance:

• Large 35L main compartment for busy workouts

• Available in different colors to match your style

• Shoe compartment: Bottom compartment

3) Lo & Sons The Hakuba

The Hakuba is Lo & Son’s take on a traditional gym bag updated for modern carry. In fact, the Hakuba is more than just a gym backpack thanks to its convertible insert design that allows it to also be used as a travel and work backpack.

At the bottom of the backpack is where you’ll find the dedicated shoe pocket that can fit up to a men’s size 14 sneakers. This special pocket can also double as a place to store travel toiletries or a lunch. Other great features include tons of easy-access pockets, a separate 15” laptop compartment and a removable insert that expands the main compartment as needed.

Features at a glance:

• Made with eco-friendly recycled poly and water-resistant zippers

• Unique removable insert design that allows you to adapt the main compartment to your carry needs.

• 15” laptop compartment with side access

• Shoe compartment: Bottom access

4) Troubadour Aero Backpack

Troubadour offers versatile work and gym bag with shoe storage with the Aero backpack. This backpack makes going from the office to the gym easier than ever with it’s built in bottom compartment and lofty main compartment for commuting gear, gym clothes and other daily essentials. We love this backpack because its stylish design and premium materials don’t scream “gym bag” while still offering all the features you need for the day ahead.

The Troubadour Aero offers a whopping 34 liters of main compartment capacity with plenty of exterior pockets for quick access to small items. If you love the look and feel of the Aero but would like a smaller size we recommend you check out the 23.5 liter Troubadour Pioneer Backpack.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 34L

• Waterproof fabric and zippers

• Shoe compartment is lined with antimicrobial lining to minimize smells

• Discrete laptop and gym bag: Dedicated laptop sleeve, plenty of pockets plus a separate laundry/shoe compartment

• Shoe compartment: Bottom compartment

5) Boundary Supply Errant Pack

The Boundary Supply Errant Pack is a versatile everyday backpack that can be used for gym days and daily commutes alike. This is thanks to its various pockets and entry points that allow for unrivaled organization and utility. Not only can you access the inside from the top but the Errant Pack also functions as a clamshell backpack thanks to its 3/4 back-access zipper. This allows for full access to all of the pockets and compartments inside the Errant Pack.

Since the Errant Pack was made to be adaptive to your needs, Boundary Supply makes sure to offer plenty of modular accessories for travel, photography and daily carry. For gym days the Errant Pack includes a shoe pocket on the bottom of the bag that can also be used to store dirty laundry.

Features at a glance:

• Incredible pocket placement for maximum organization

• Modular system allows you to use the Errant Pack for the gym, photography or travel

• Shoe compartment: Bottom access

Alternatives to Consider

Although a separate shoe compartment is incredibly convenient, buying an entirely new backpack with a shoe compartment isn’t always necessary if you want to carry shoes.

An alternative to a backpack with a shoe pocket is a shoe bag - which gives you the same kind of seperation between your dirty shoes and the rest of your packing. Not only is this a cheaper solution to purchasing an entirely new backpack but you can use the shoe bag in multiple backpacks, luggage or just carry it solo.

There are a ton of brands that offer shoe bags but below are some of our favorites:

Peak Design Shoe Pouch - Ultralight and packable shoe bag that can fit up to 2 pairs of shoes depending on size. The Shoe Pouch compresses down into a fraction of its size when not in use.

Knack Bags Shoe Bag - Compressible shoe bag that can be adjusted to your shoe size to save space in your backpack. We like how these include an internal divider to keep shoes from rubbing against each other while packed.

Nomatic Shoe Cube - Square design allows this shoe bag to pack neatly with other packing cubes. It also has a highly durable water resistant exterior design to protect expensive shoes. Can fit up to size 12 shoes.

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

Buy on Amazon

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

Buy on Amazon

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

Buy on Amazon

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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10 Best Backpacks For Tablets - iPad and iPad Pro Backpacks

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

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

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

Pictured: Got Bag Daypack with 12.9” iPad Pro

We have divided this list into to two sections:

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

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

Best Small Tablet Backpacks

Osprey Arcane Small Daypack

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

• Read more about the Osprey Arcane Small

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 10L

  • Slim and small backpack for iPad or 13” laptop

  • Intuitive pockets for organizing your daily essentials

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

  • Stylish minimalist design available in a variety of colors

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

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

Got Bag Daypack

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

• Read more about the Got Bag Daypack

  Features at a glance:

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

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

  • Water resistant construction

  • 11L capacity

  • Available in lots of fun colors

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

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

Day Owl Slim Backpack

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

• Read more about the Day Owl Slim

  Features at a glance:

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

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

  • Top sunglasses pocket

  • Hidden water bottle pocket

  • Available in a ton of colors

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

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

Kensington Triple Trek Slim Backpack

Buy on Amazon

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

• Read more about the Kensington Triple Trek

  Features at a glance:

  • Tablet sleeve dimensions: 10.6 x 7.4 x 1.8

  • Laptop sleeve dimensions: 13 x 9 x 1

  • Fleece lined tablet and laptop sleeves

  • Plenty of pockets for sunglasses, pens and accessories

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

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

The North Face Jester

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

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

• Read more about The North Face Jester

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 27L

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

  • Single 15” laptop sleeve inside main compartment

  • Additional front compartment with lots of smaller pockets

  • Lightweight construction and design

  Webbing system for attaching additional items to front of pack

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

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

Osprey Daylite

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

• Read more about the Osprey Daylite

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 13L

  • Ultra lightweight construction

  • Made with water resistant materials

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

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

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

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

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

Best Backpacks for Laptop and iPad

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

The North Face Surge Backpack

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

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

• Read more about The North Face Surge

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 31L

  • Available in men’s and women’s fit

  • Dedicated 15” laptop compartment with tablet sleeve

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

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

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

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

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

Matein Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

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

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

• Read more about the Matein Laptop Backpack

  Features at a glance:

  • Affordable price (under $50)

  • Dedicated tech compartment with both a laptop and table sleeve

  • Tablet sleeve can accommodate up 13” tablets

  • Roomy main compartment for work, school or travel

  • Includes integrated external USB charging port

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

WANDRD PRVKE

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

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

• Read more about the WANDRD PRVKE

  Features at a glance:

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

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

  • Includes both a laptop and tablet sleeve

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

  • Made of high quality waterproof materials

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

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

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

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

GULU Made Innovator Backpack

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

• Read more about the GULU Made Innovator

  Features at a glance:

  • Capacity: 22L

  • Includes both a laptop and tablet sleeve

  • Slim design without the bulk

  • Lots of pockets for organizing daily essentials

  • Cushioned Lux-Comfort back panel

  • Handmade in Uganda

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

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

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

Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack

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

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

• Read more about the Timbuk2 Authority

  Features at a glance:

  • Backpack Dimension: 18.9 x 11.4 x 5.31 inches

  • Capacity: 28 Liters

  • Laptop compartment: Device up to 17”

  • Tons of pockets for organization

  • Secondary sleeve for tablet inside main compartment

  • Super comfortable padded air mesh back panel and shoulder straps

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

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

Alternative: Tablet Sling

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

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

Alpaka Bravo Sling Pro V2

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

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

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

• External USB port for charging devices on the go

• Waterproof construction

Solo Universal Tablet Sling

Buy on Amazon

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

• Adjustable single strap sling pack

• Padded compartment fits tablets up to 11 inches.

• Front zipper pockets for extra storage.

Simtop iPad Sling Bag

Buy on Amazon

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

• Available in 11” and 12.9” iPad sizes

• Super slim profile with an extra pocket for accessories

• Cushioned and protective compartment for an iPad or tablet

• Water resistant construction

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Harber London Office Backpack Review - A Handcrafted Laptop Backpack for Work

Harber London is a brand that offers handmade premium leather bags, laptop sleeves and accessories. Their latest Office Backpack is a departure from their usual all-leather bags as a more attainable option that’s perfect for anyone looking to get their feet wet with a high end backpack for work and travel.

The Office Backpack offers a best of both worlds experience in terms of functionality and craftsmanship. On the one hand it is packed with modern must-have features like a laptop sleeve and tons of organization modern work items. But at its core, the Office Backpack presents a timeless heritage design that ascends modern day backpack trends. We’re talking about the kind of heirloom craftsmanship that stands the test of time.

In this hands-on Harber London Office Backpack review we will take a look at all of the details so that you can make a better choice deciding if this bag is right for you.

Where to buy: Harber London

Table of contents

• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• What fits inside the Office Backpack?
• Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Materials and Construction

Each Harber London Office Backpack is handmade by craftsmen in Spain and you can really see the difference in quality when compared to other mass produced backpacks. There wasn’t a loose thread or sloppy stitch anywhere to be found.

Fabric made of recycled plastic bottles

The main fabric is made completely from recycled plastic bottles. Although this fabric has the look of canvas it feels a bit rougher to the touch and heavier in weight. The thickness of the fabric is what gives the Office Backpack a lot of its structure so that the backpack can retain most of its shape when empty.

The front of the backpack and all touch points are made from Harber London’s full grain leather. We expect this leather to take scratches and scuffs like a champ over time. Full grain leather also has the habit of forming a unique character and patina as it ages.

Full grain leather and chrome zippers on the Harber London Office Backpack

This backpack really shines with small details. Every bit of hardware is made out of metal with no plastic in sight. The chromed metal zippers even match the engraved logo on the front of the backpack for a cohesive look.

Although the textile used on this backpack is waterproof, it’s important to note that the zippers on the Office Backpack are not. We regard the Office Backpack to be water resistant but we these zippers won’t do you any favors if you were to ever be caught out in a nasty rainstorm.

Pockets and Compartments

Outside Pockets

The Harber London Office Backpack is filled with exterior compartments for easy organization. The front of the backpack features a large open zippered pocket that’s great for stashing bulkier items that you need quick access to.

Front zippered pocket with a pair of large headphones inside

There is also a large organizer compartment right behind the leather panel on the front. What’s great about this compartment is that the zipper stays hidden behind the leather for a cleaner appearance.

Hidden organizer compartment on the Office Backpack

Inside this organizer compartment you’ll find a variety of pockets for small items such as pens, business cards, tech accessories and more. Here is where you’ll also find a removable magnetic key leash.

Top pocket for sunglasses or phone

On the top of the backpack you’ll find a zippered pocket for sunglasses, a phone or other items you need quick access to.

Side water bottle pockets on the Office Backpack

Finally, there are pockets for a water bottle or umbrella on each side of the Office Backpack. These pockets are made out of the same material as the body and as a result have absolutely no stretch to them. We found that only slim water bottles will fit inside these side pockets with a 21 oz (621mL) Hydro Flask being the largest bottle we could fit.

Main Compartment

The Harber London Office Backpack has way more pockets and compartments than its clean minimalist exterior leads you to believe. Along with a variety of sneaky exterior pockets, the Office Backpack also gives you plenty of organization on the inside.

Inside the main compartment you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve as well as an additional tablet sleeve.

The Office Backpack is available in both 13” and 16” laptop versions. The version we are reviewing here is the smaller 13” laptop version. Although made with 13-inch laptops in mind, we found that this laptop sleeve can actually fit up a 14” PC laptop. Users with laptops over 14” will want to stick with the larger 16” laptop version of the Office Backpack.

The oversized tablet sleeve can easily fit up to a 13” tablet which makes it perfect an iPad Pro or other large tablet. Harber even adds a small pocket next to the tablet sleeve for an Apple Pencil or stylus.

Although the laptop sleeve is fully padded it is worth noting that there is no false bottom on this laptop sleeve and as a result the laptop sleeve itself reaches all the way down to the bottom of the bag. This means that the only thing protecting the bottom of the laptop from the ground is the laptop sleeve padding and exterior material.

On the other side of the main compartment there are a zippered pocket and two slip pockets for organizing your gear. 

These pockets are the perfect size for laptop or tablet chargers and other mid-sized items. We even found the slip pockets large enough to fit a larger 32oz (~1000ml) Nalgene water bottle.

Best Business Casual Backpacks for Work

See the list

What Fits Inside the Harber London Office Backpack?

The 16 liter main compartment on the Harber London Office Backpack offers just enough room for your tech, work items and a few personal items. Although we wouldn’t consider this backpack ideal for travel, it’s the perfect size as a daily carry backpack for just the essentials.

The Harber London Office Backpack can fit:

Inside the main compartment

• 13” Laptop

• Tablet

• 1-inch binder

• Tech Pouch (8.5" x 6" x 2.5")

• Light sweater or jacket

• Laptop charger

• External hard drive

Comfort Features

When it comes to comfort Harber London keeps the features on the Office Backpack sleek and simple.

The back panel shares its padding with the laptop sleeve inside the main compartment. This helps give the Office Backpack a slim professional appearance when worn.

The shoulder straps are made out of full grain leather that match the leather details on the rest of the bag. Stitched to the leather is a strip of very soft foam.

Although there isn’t a ton of padding on these shoulder straps, there are no complaints about comfort when the backpack is fully loaded. This bag is too small to really benefit from extra-cushioned foam shoulder straps usually found in larger backpacks.

Swivel shoulder strap design adjusts to your shoulder width

One of the best comfort features is the swiveling shoulder strap design. Each shoulder strap is attached to a metal button that allows the shoulder straps to adjust to your shoulder width.

Although the Office Backpack is marketed as a men’s backpack - it’s still compact enough for women without being too bulky or ill fitting. This is all thanks to Harber’s swiveling shoulder straps that can fit most people regardless of body size.

Final Thoughts

The Harber London Office Backpack really does live up to its name by offering a stylish way for digital roamers to carry their tech and work items to and from the office.

Now let’s talk about price - its $351 USD price puts it up there with brands like Tumi and Filson but with the added value of being meticulously handmade by expert bag makers. With that said, the price seems just about right for a handcrafted bag made with premium materials. We believe that for professionals looking for a more sophisticated way to carry their gear the Office Backpack is definitely well worth the cost of admission.

Where to buy: Harber London

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Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 (2021) - Worth the Upgrade?

Update: Knack Bags has recently rolled out some changes to their Series 1 and Series 2 Expandable Knack Packs since this comparison was first published. Check out our new Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 comparison for the most up-to-date information!

The Knack Pack is a versatile backpack that goes from a sleek daily carry bag to a travel bag in seconds thanks to Knack’s expandable design. 

With the Series 2, Knack has introduced a new look with a few changes to improve the overall security and internal organization. In this Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 backpack comparison we are going to do a deep dive and explore all of the differences.

	Knack Pack Series 1 Medium	Knack Pack Series 2 Medium
Volume	27-39 Liters	24-35 Liters
Material	Water resistant 1200D Polyester	420D Nylon or 600D Polyester with PU water resistant coating full grain napa leather
Laptop Storage	Up to 15"	Up to 15"
Fleece Lined Tablet Pocket	Yes	Yes
Compression Straps	No	No
Sternum Strap	Yes	Yes
Waist Belt	No	No
Price	$195 on Knackbags.com	$225 on Knackbags.com

Video Review

Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2

For this backpack comparison we have both the Series 1: Medium Expandable Knack Pack and the Series 2: Medium Expandable Knack Pack so that we can focus on the features and spot any true differences in size.

Side by side: Knack Pack Series 1 Medium (left) and the Knack Pack Series 2 Medium (right)

Construction and Size Comparison

Materials

One of the biggest differences between the Knack Pack Series 1 and Series 2 is with Knack’s choice of external materials.

The original Knack Pack uses water resistant 1200D two-toned polyester for the outer body while the Series 2 uses 420D Nylon woven with high-twist yarn (Midnight Black) or 600D two-tone polyester ottoman fabric (Storm Gray) depending on the color you choose.

When comparing the two fabrics we found that the fabric used on the Series 2 has more of a lux feel while the fabric on the original Knack Pack feels a little bit more rugged.

Another change that Knack has made on the Series 2 is with the addition of full grain Napa leather on the touch points such as the handles and shoulder straps. This leather feels incredibly supple to the touch and adds a new level of sophistication when compared to the Series 1 Knack Pack.

The bottom of the Knack Pack Series 2 also includes PVC side and bottom panels. This material compliments the bag nicely while also adding extra wear protection.

PVC side and bottom panels on the Knack Pack Series 2 Expandable Backpack

While the original Knack Pack feels like great quality all around, the addition of nylon and leather really bumps up the Series 2 into luxury bag territory. The Series 2 feels like an amazing quality bag when handled and it is here where you’ll start to justify the jump in price.

Knack has decided to keep a lot of the same materials for the rest of the backpack. Both backpacks use water resistant YKK reverse coil zippers and the same branded rubber zippers pulls. 

Both backpacks also keep the same antimicrobial nylon lining on the inside. The only difference is that the Series 2 Knack has toned down the original orange print with a more subtle gray print.

Size Comparison

Both versions of the Knack Pack keep the same expandable design that allows you to use the backpack for daily carry and travel as needed.

Daily carry mode: Model height 5’5”

Internally, the Medium Series 1 has slightly more packing room at 27 liters unexpanded and 39 liters expanded when compared to the 24-39 liter capacity of the Medium Series 2. For a better understanding of how much you can pack at each capacity we recommend you check out our guide to backpack sizes.

Travel mode: Knack backpacks when fully expanded

Although the Knack Pack Series 1 has more internal packing capacity, it’s surprisingly not that much larger overall. Both the Knack Pack Series 1 and Series 2 keep a similar profile when worn.

Pockets and Compartments

Organization Pockets

The Knack Pack Series 1 is known for its clever pocket placement throughout the outside of the backpack. The Series 1 includes a top fleece lined pocket on the top, an accessory storage compartment on the bottom with elastic loops for cable management and Knack’s signature V-style pocket in the front for organizing business cards and other small items.

In order to achieve a more streamlined look, Knack has combined all of the smaller pockets in the Series 1 into one massive organizer compartment in the Series 2. Inside this compartment is where you will find all of the original organizer features such as a fleece lined pocket for glasses, cable loops, business card pockets and a variety of larger pockets for accessories like chargers, notebooks and wallets.

Main Compartment Comparison

The main compartment on the Series 2 has also seen some changes.

The main compartment design on the original Knack Pack is slightly larger at 27 liters and is a lot more closed off with the walls of the backpack creating a sort of “cave opening”. This design is great for preventing items from spilling out when opening the bag.

Although smaller at only 24 liters, the Series 2 offers a much more open design giving you easier access to the mesh pockets.

Both Knack Pack main compartments are lined with pockets on either side but Knack manages to squeeze an extra zippered pocket inside the main compartment of the Series 2 for increased organization.

Water Bottle Compartments

A great feature that Knack has decided to keep on the Series 2 is the hidden water bottle pocket.

On the original Series 1, the pocket has a stretchy mesh pocket design. This mesh is what holds your bottle in place and as a result you can fit a larger bottle (up to a 32oz Nalgene bottle). You won’t be able to zip the pocket shut when storing a larger bottle but it can be used in pinch.

The hidden water bottle pocket on the Series 2 replaces the mesh with an internal pocket design. This means that larger bottles won’t fit at all and you’ll really be restricted to slimmer bottles. This is something to keep in mind if you carry larger water bottles or tumblers.

Both bottle pockets are incredibly clever and we think Knack offers the best backpack with a water bottle pocket for those who dislike the sight of ugly mesh pockets.

Laptop Compartment

One pocket that Knack keeps in tact is the 15-inch laptop sleeve located right behind the back panel.

Note: When Knack says it fits laptops up to 15” they really mean it! We found that a 15.6” laptop is too large for these laptop compartments. A 15” Macbook or 14” and 13” laptops all fit perfectly inside the Knack laptop sleeve.

Expandable Travel Compartment

Not much has changed with the each bag’s expandable packing compartment. Both backpacks feature near-identical expansion designs that can be accessed with a hidden zipper.

Inside of each packing compartment you’ll find a similar mesh pocket and a compression area for clothing.

Since the Series 2 has less internal capacity than the Series 1. You can expect this packing compartment to be a smidge smaller at only 11 liters while the original Knack Pack gives you 12 liters. That’s the difference of a couple of rolled up t-shirts. 

We found that both compartment can comfortably fit 2-3 days worth of clothing as advertised and if you are a light packer you could fit even more!

Comfort and Fit

Back Panel

The back panel is also different with a change in design and materials. The Series 1 uses a molded foam back panel while the Series 2 went with a memory foam back panel. 

Comfort-wise, we couldn’t feel much of a difference between these two back panels even when the backpack was packed full. Knack does a really good job with both of these foam back panels and the pressure points and thickness are similar enough when worn. Only time will tell how the memory foam will perform over the original Knack’s foam.

Shoulder Straps

Knack features near-identical shoulder strap designs in both the Series 1 and Series 2. We found the padded shoulder straps to be incredibly comfortable under weight and we are happy that Knack has kept the same design. You shouldn’t fix what isn’t broken!

Stowable shoulder straps

Both backpacks feature stowable shoulder straps that can be tucked into the back panel but where the Series 2 improves is that it now include a side handle which gives you the option to carry the bag like a briefcase. The Series 1 only features a top handle but no side handles.

Which backpack is the better buy?

Is the Knack Pack Series 2 expandable backpack worth the upgrade if you are considering a Knack Pack? Although functionally both backpacks are very similar, there are some key differences worth considering before making a final choice.

Knack Pack Series 1

Knack Pack Series 2

Choose the Knack Pack Series 1… you want a sleek yet casual look, more color options and more internal packing space. The Knack Pack Series 1 is a great quality backpack that feels a bit more casual and rugged than the Series 2. You also get more internal carrying capacity for busy work days and longer trips. Another bonus is that the Knack Pack Series 1 comes in many more color and size options (Small, Medium and Large) for a customizable carrying experience.

Choose the Knack Pack Series 2… You want a more refined look with nicer materials and better internal organization. The addition of the PVC bottom panel and napa leather accents really elevates the Series 2 to a more mature luxury bag when compared to the original design. And the combination of the original pockets also gives the Series 2 a sleeker minimalist look and beefs up security (less pockets to pick!)

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Best Lunch Box Backpack For Adults - 11 Lunch Box Backpack Options

If you are looking for a great lunch box backpack that still makes you feel like a grown up than you aren’t alone! Ditch the small school backpack and cooler for a lunch box backpack for adults that features a built-in cooler compartment, padded laptop sleeve or even a phone charger! 

In this buying guide we guide you through the types of lunch box backpacks that are currently available and recommend the best lunch box backpacks for work, campus or a fun day outdoors!

King Kong ZONE25 Backpack

Backpack with removable lunch box

Buy on King Kong

Carhartt 2-in-1 Insulated Cooler Backpack

Backpack with Built In Lunchbox

Buy on Amazon

Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack

Lunch Box Cooler Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Types of Lunch Box Backpacks

When searching for a lunch box backpack you’ll usually find three varieties:

1. Backpack with a built in lunch box

2. Detachable lunch box backpack

3. Backpack lunch box cooler

Below we review these three options so you can determine which style is the best lunch box backpack one for your needs.

Backpack with built in lunchbox - Carhartt Insulated 2-in-1 backpack (Amazon)

Backpack with Built In Lunch box

Backpacks with a built in lunch box are regular daily carry backpacks with a special insulated cooler compartment for food and drinks. Unlike cooler backpacks, the rest of the backpack is non-insulated and can be used for your daily carry items like a laptop, change of clothes and other everyday essentials.

We recommend backpacks with a built in lunchbox to anyone who needs a versatile all-in-one carry solution for work or school. What a backpack with a built in lunchbox does best is eliminate the need for a lunch box and additional carry bag by combining the two into one convenient solution.

Backpack with detachable lunch box - King Kong ZONE25 backpack

Backpack with detachable lunch box

Just like backpacks with a built in lunchboxes, a backpack with a detachable lunch box is designed with a special compartment for food and drinks. But instead of a built-in insulated compartment, these backpacks offer a removable insulated lunch box.

These backpacks are great for anyone who wants to be able to just take their lunch on the go without having to lug around the rest of their backpack. And since the lunch box is removable, it makes it easy to clean, pack and leave in the fridge overnight.

We like backpacks with detachable lunch boxes because they usually have a lot of features that you would find in a regular backpack; laptop and tech compartments, large main compartments and smaller organizer pockets for your daily items.

Backpack lunch box cooler - Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack (Amazon)

Backpack Lunch Box Cooler

A lunch box cooler backpack is similar to a traditional cooler but designed in a backpack form. These backpacks feature large insulated main compartments where you can store a lunch, multiple beverages and larger items that need to be kept cold throughout the day.

Unlike regular hand-held lunch box coolers, a backpack lunch box cooler offers hands-free carry which is a huge advantage for those on the move. Ergonomic shoulder straps, additional non-insulated pockets and leak-proof interiors are common features. 

We recommend backpack lunch box coolers to anyone who needs a lunch box backpack they can use for large lunches and snacks, multiple drinks and who would also like the additional versatility of using the backpack for picnics, beach days and hikes.

Best Lunch Box Backpacks for Adults

King Kong ZONE25 Backpack

King Kong offers a backpack with a detachable lunch box with the ZONE25. This backpack was designed with meal prepping in mind but we found it also makes a great lunch box backpack for work thanks to its tough as nails construction and clever laptop and daily carry compartments.

For those who want a bag that will last, the King Kong ZONE25 offers some of the best quality and construction out of all of the lunch box backpacks on this list. This is thanks to its Food Grade water resistant 1000D Nylon construction, heavy-duty metal hardware and neoprene water bottle pockets that keep your drinks insulated while on the move.

Carhartt 2-in-1 Insulated Cooler Backpack

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The Carhartt 2-in-1 Insulated Cooler Backpack features a two tier design that allows you to carry your work items in the top compartment and fill the bottom insulated cooler with your lunch and drinks. The bottom cooler compartment is very roomy and allows you to hold up to 12 cans. And side mesh pockets give you great access to bottles of water or coffee travel mugs on the go. If you are looking for lunch box backpack from a brand you can trust then the Carhartt 2-in-1 Insulated Cooler Backpack is for you!

Slotra Laptop Backpack with built in lunch box

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If you are looking for a reliable laptop backpack with a built in lunch box then you are going to want to take a closer look at the Slotra Laptop Backpack. Not only do you get a fully padded 17-inch laptop sleeve but the backpack also features an external USB charging port, plenty of organizer pockets and sneaky anti-theft pockets.

As a lunch box backpack, the Slotra Laptop backpack features a removable lunch box that is held in a bottom zipper compartment. The lunch box itself is insulated to keep your food cool and is large enough to fit a standard lunch and drinks.

AmazonBasics Campus Backpack

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The AmazonBasics Campus Backpack is an affordable option for those looking for a feature-rich lunch box backpack for adults. In addition to a front cooler compartment for food and drinks, the AmazonBasics Campus also features a padded 15-inch laptop compartment, a large 33 liter main compartment and plenty of pockets for organizing items.

Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack

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Perfect for anyone who needs a dedicated backpack lunch box cooler, the Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack features a large insulated main compartment that can hold up to 28 cans! This leakproof compartment is made possible thanks to Coleman’s heat-welded seams that allows the inside of the bag to stay insulated while preventing accidental spills.

As a lunch box backpack, you’ll find that the Coleman Soft Cooler Backpacks is one of the better quality backpacks for the price. Side pockets allow for easy access to items like a coffee travel mug, umbrella or even smaller items like a phone. The front elastic cord also allows for additional storage of larger items like a light jacker or towel.

AmHoo Insulated Lunch Backpack

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Amhoo offers the perfect women’s lunch box backpack in a stylish design with their Insulated Cooler Backpack. The lower partition of the bag is lined with a leakproof insulation that allows for food and drinks to stay cold throughout your day. The roomy insulated compartment can fit up to six Poland Spring water bottles so you are sure to have enough room for a lunch and multiple drinks with room to spare.

One feature we like about this backpack is the soft padded ergonomic back panel that is designed for a comfortable fit even when the cooler is fully loaded. If you plan on using this as a women’s backpack for work, you’ll love the thoughtful fit especially made for a shorter torso.

Forich Double Decker Cooler Backpack

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The Forich Double Decker features a two-tier design that allows you to store your lunch and drinks in the large lower cooler compartment and an open top main compartment for extra snacks or your daily carry items. This design allows for a two-in-one daily and lunch backpack solution that you can bring with you to work or outdoor activities.

The bottom cooler compartment is insulated and completely leakproof so you can use it as a true cooler filled with ice. This compartment is also large enough to hold up to 24 cans so you can fill it up for a full day without worry.

Matein Lunch Backpack with built in Cooler

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Matein offers a versatile lunch box backpack for adults for those who need a reliable backpack to conquer their day. In addition to an insulated lunch compartment in the front of the bag, the Matein Lunch Backpack also includes a large open main compartment, 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and plenty of organizer pockets for smaller items. This backpack also makes a great charging backpack thanks to its external USB port that allows you to charge a phone or other electronic device while on the move.

Gardrit Cooler Backpack

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The Gardrit Cooler Backpack is perfect for anyone looking for a dedicated lunch backpack with plenty of room for meals and multiple drinks. The large insulated main compartment can fit up to 35 cans! And its entire construction is leak proof thanks to its insulated foam lining that keeps things cool for up to 12 hours.

In addition to the Gardrit’s large cooler compartment, the bag also features a non-insulated front pocket for snacks, cutlery or personal items you want to keep separate. There are also two zippered side pockets that can hold drinks for quick-access.

Mier Insulated Lunch Backpack

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Mier offers a lunch box backpack that’s perfect for long days at work or weekend adventures. This backpack is a soft cooler with an insulated and leakproof main compartment that can fit up to 24 cans! The inside of the Mier Lunch backpack is tall enough for larger water bottles and even wine bottles. An inside mesh pocket also allows you to store things like napkins and cutlery for easy access.

Dakine Campus Backpack

The Dakine Campus is a backpack designed for life on the move. Made for long days on campus, you’ll find everything from a padded 15” laptop sleeve, fleece lined glasses pocket and a large main compartment in either 25-liter or 33-liter sizes. One of its most innovative features is the insulated cooler compartment that is found in the front of the backpack. This pocket allows you to use the Dakine Campus as a lunch box backpack without compromising on important daily carry features.

How to pick the best lunch box backpack

Picking the right lunch box backpack is easy once you know which features you need!

King Kong ZONE25 backpack with removable lunch box

Lunch Box Compartment Size

A common measuring tool for cooler compartments is by determining how many beverage cans can fit on the inside. Beverage cans are easy to visualize since they are a common item that most people are familiar with.

When searching for a backpack lunch box make sure to find out how many beverage cans can fit on the inside for a better idea of how large the cooler compartment is.

For those who need a lot of room for multiple meals and drinks, we recommend going with a cooler backpack since they dedicate an entire main compartment for storing food and drinks. This not only allows you to pack a large lunch but you’ll also be able to fill the cooler compartment with ice for cold drink storage.

If you just need to pack a small lunch and a single drink then a backpack with a built in lunch box is perfect. These cooler compartments are usually smaller and out of the way so you can use the rest of the backpack to pack your daily items such as a laptop, a change of clothes and other daily essentials.

Cooler Insulation

The key to a good lunch box backpack is finding one with good insulation. Brands like Coleman and Mier already have a great reputation for good soft coolers and their backpack lunch box coolers are built to the same standard.

Whichever brand you choose, make sure that the lunch box compartment is fully insulated to keep cold items cold throughout the day. These compartments should also be leakproof with good seams to prevent moisture and condensation from escaping the cooler compartment.

Matein laptop backpack with built in lunch box (Amazon)

Daily Carry Features

The big difference between a lunch box cooler backpack and a backpack with a lunch box compartment is versatility. Do you need a backpack just to hold your lunch? Then a small lunch box cooler backpack may be your best option.

If you need to carry additional daily items like clothing, a laptop and your personal items then going with a multi-functional backpack with a lunch box compartment is the better option. This allows you to ditch a second bag for an all-in-one daily backpack and lunch box solution.

Alternative Solution: Packable Lunch Box

If you already own a backpack that you love and don’t want to spend the extra cash on a new one then purchasing a small lunch box that fits in a backpack is the best solution.

You can usually find a packable lunch box that is great quality and reasonably priced online. We recommend the PackIt and Simply Modern brand of lunch boxes since they come in a variety of sizes and have great insulation. These lunch boxes are often designed to be freezable so that your lunch stays cold throughout the day.

PACKIT

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PackIt

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Simple Modern

Buy on Amazon

To make sure the lunch box fits inside your backpack, measure the inside of your backpack’s main compartment and purchase the best lunch box size that fits.

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Day Owl Backpack Review - Stylish Grown Up Backpack for Work and Weekends

A backpack with dangling straps, cheap materials and obnoxious branding doesn’t exactly scream sophistication. And while many backpacks have exactly all of the pockets you need, they really leave a lot to be desired in terms of style. Luckily Day Owl offers a stylish alternative with their flagship backpack that is every bit as mature in design as it is functional.

In this hands-on Day Owl backpack review we take a closer look at all of the features and design details that really make the Day Owl the perfect backpack for adults who need a mature yet versatile backpack for work, weekends and travel.

Update: Day Owl has updated a few things about the Day Owl Backpack since this review has been published. Check out our Day Owl Backpack vs Day Owl Slim comparison for what’s new!

Table of contents

• Video Review
• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• What Fits inside the Day Owl?
• Fit and Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Video Review

Materials and Construction

Our first impression of the Day Owl backpack was “Wow, this is a well made bag!”

The materials feel robust and solid. Nothing feels cheap. And we can tell that the waxed canvas and leather will wear very well over time. Waxed canvas is a very hardwearing fabric and one of the few materials that actually looks better over time as it develops a rugged patina.

When it comes to materials Day Owl prides itself in sourcing only ethically conscious materials that serve a greater purpose. The brand is very transparent with how they source the materials to make each Day Owl backpack. Below is a brief overview.

First Mile Waxed Canvas - First Mile supports micro-economies in underdeveloped communities by offering materials from ethically sourced supply chains. It’s a people-first approach to traditional sourcing.

100% Recycled Polyester - The lining, zipper tape and thread are all made out of recycled plastic bottles. This eliminates environmental waste in a huge way.

LWG Certified Leather - All of the leather accents are made out of LWG certified leather. LWG is a group that focuses on compliance for eco-friendly and ethical sourcing of leather materials.

Along with the above materials, Day Owl also ditches cheap plastic hardware for metal ones. Everything from the zipper pulls, snaps on the top handle and shoulder strap buckles are made out of metal. Metal is more robust and long-lasting than plastic pieces and this significantly adds to the durability of the bag over time.

Free Repairs For Life

An underrated feature of the Day Owl backpack is that the brand offers free repairs for life! The bag is constructed to be repaired and not thrown away. This really shows when you look closely at the shoulder strap and body construction.

So few brands offer a warranty like this and we think it’s pretty special.

Pockets and Compartments

Outside Pockets

One of the reasons we call the Day Owl a “backpack for adults” is because of its minimalist design that hides many of the pockets and compartments from view. This gives you a clean profile on the outside of the bag without skimping on organization.

On the front you will find a zippered stash pocket that covers most of the front panel. This is just one big open pocket that is great for bulkier items like large headphones, glasses cases and tech accessories.

On the top of the backpack you will find a small pocket that is perfect for sunglasses or a phone.

On the one side of the bag there is another small pocket that can fit a pair of sunglasses, a phone or a wallet.

But the best pocket is the hidden chimney pocket that can fit long items like a water bottle or small umbrella. This chimney pocket is lined with neoprene - a water resistant fabric that prevents leaks from soaking into the bag.

Day Owl claims that an entire bottle of wine can fit into the chimney pocket so we decided to test it ourselves…

Along with a wine bottle, the chimney pocket can fit most slim water bottles but we found that large diameter bottles (i.e. a Nalgene 32 oz.) will be too wide to fit into this pocket.

The last exterior pocket on the Day Owl backpack is the laptop compartment that is located against the back panel. This laptop compartment is padded on all sides and can fit either a 14” laptop (Smaller version) or up to a 15” laptop (Larger version).

One minor complaint is that the laptop compartment does not have a false bottom. This means that the laptop compartment reaches all the way down to the bottom of the bag with little padding between your laptop and the ground. With a false bottom, there is room between the your laptop and the bottom of your bag for extra protection against drops. 

Main Compartment

The Day Owl offers a mostly clamshell zipper design that allows for open access to the items inside. Clamshell backpacks are some of our favorites as they offer full access to the entirety of the main compartment. They make packing and retrieving items a lot easier since you can lay the bag almost flat for easy access.

When it comes to internal organization Day Owl has kept it simple by offering just two slip pockets in the back. These pockets are pretty slim and don’t offer much room for carrying bulkier items. For example, a slim external hard drive may fit in the larger pocket but anything bulkier may not fit.

These pockets are one of the rare cons of the Day Owl backpack since they are simply too narrow and too deep to be very useful. Very small items (chapstick, makeup, Airpods) will sink to the bottom of the pocket and it isn’t fun trying to cram your hand in that narrow pocket to reach for it.

Another small feature is the webbing on the one side of the main compartment. This allows for attaching of keys and other accessories.

What Fits Inside the Day Owl?

The Day Owl comes in two size options: Smaller (16 liters) and Larger (21 liters). Both versions are compact enough to use as everyday carry but may be too small to use as a serious travel bag (longer than an overnight stay).

If packing for a gym workout the main compartment on the regular Day Owl can fit:

• A water bottle 

• Change of clothes

• Toiletries Bag

While the main compartment in the Larger Day Owl can fit the same plus a pair of running shoes.

As a backpack for work or college we found that both the Smaller and Larger versions can comfortably fit large binders, textbooks and notebooks. You also have the separate compartment for your laptop carry.

There is also still room for things small such as glasses, tech accessories and personal items on the outside pockets while the main compartment is full.

Comfort and Fit Features

Day Owl has decided to keep thing simple when it comes to comfort features. The back panel shares its padding with the laptop compartment and the shoulder straps are also padded for added comfort.

When fully loaded the Day Owl comfortable and we found no pinching or digging with the shoulder strap design. A lot of that has to do with the small form factor of the Day Owl that just doesn’t warrant the level of padding you would find in a larger backpack.

One of the best design features on the Day Owl is their “no slack straps” which eliminates dangling straps by using a closed loop design. This is one of those small design details that makes the Day Owl look a little bit more grown up and sophisticated than your average backpack and it’s one of our favorite features.

The only other backpack we have reviewed with similar shoulder straps is the Black Ember Citadel R2 and we wish more backpack brands would incorporate this kind of shoulder strap design.

How comfortable you find the Day Owl relies on picking out the proper size. The difference between the Smaller and Larger version is in the width and height of the bag and the shoulder strap positioning.

The shoulder straps on the Smaller version are a little under 2-inches apart at the very top. Where as the Larger version’s shoulder straps are about 2 1/4 inches apart.

The best size for you really depends on your body type. You should choose the Smaller version if you have smaller shoulders and a shorter torso. Taller people or those with broader shoulders will find the Larger size to be a better fit.

You can tell Day Owl wanted to keep this backpack as simple possible. Not only does a simple construction allow for a light weight backpack but it also makes it easier to repair in the future.

Final Thoughts

Overall our Day Owl experience has been an overwhelmingly positive one.

The clean minimalist design and the awesome features like the chimney pocket and no slack straps really make the Day Owl a true “grown up backpack” that can be worn just about anywhere. 

And let’s not forget about the top notch materials and construction. In addition to looking good, the Day Owl feels like a nice backpack. The wax canvas and leather accents are expected to wear very well over time and the metal hardware is a nice touch. The fact that Day Owl offers free repairs for the life of the bag also brings in some serious peace of mind. 

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Able Carry Daily Backpack vs Thirteen Daybag - Which everyday backpack is right for you?

Able Carry offers two fantastic everyday carry backpacks with their Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daypack. But what’s the real difference?

Both the Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag are designed for easy carry of daily essentials and they don’t disappoint when it comes to style, pocket placement and fit.

In this hands-on backpack review and comparison we will take a closer look at both bags and help you decide which Able Carry backpack is the best everyday backpack for you.

Update: Able Carry have new updated designs for 2024! Check out our Able Carry Daily Plus review and new Thirteen Daybag review for a closer look at what has changed.

Quick Specs

	Able Carry Daily Backpack	Able Carry Thirteen Daypack
Dimensions	19" H x 11" W x 7.5" D	17" H x 11" W x 6.7" D
Volume	20 Liters	13 Liters
Weight	2.1lbs	1.3lbs
Material	Corudra Nylon or XPAC	XPAC
Laptop Storage	15" laptop sleeve	13" laptop sleeve
Document sleeve	No	Yes
Key Leash	Yes	Yes
Sternum Strap	Yes	No
Water Bottle Pocket	No	Yes
Price	Check the latest price	Check the latest price

Video Review

Size and Capacity

Let’s start with the biggest difference between the Able Carry Daily Backpack and the Thirteen Daybag - their size.

• Daily Backpack - 20 liters

• Thirteen Daybag - 13 liters

In the world of backpacks, the Able Carry Daily Backpack is already on the smaller side. But 20 liters can be just the right size for essential carry of daily items.

What fits inside the Daily Backpack?

• 1 large pair of headphones

• 2 light hoodies or sweaters

• 1 small book

• 2 1-inch binders

• 1 laptop up to 15-inches inside the padded sleeve

Note that this is just what can fit inside the main compartment without consideration for the inside or outside pockets (there are plenty of those.)

Can the Able Carry Daily Backpack be used for travel?

Not really. If you are a very light packer then you might be able to make 20 liters work. You may be ok with packing for an overnight stay, but it there won’t be enough room to pack for a longer weekend trip.

What fits inside the Thirteen Daybag?

• 1 large pair of headphones

• 1 light sweater

• 1 small book

• 1 1-inch binder

• 1 laptop up to 13-inches inside the padded sleeve

The Thirteen Daybag has a much smaller capacity of 13 liters. The positive? This is the perfect size for smaller people that find most backpacks too large. The negative? It packs even less than the Daily Backpack.

Pockets and Compartments

In the last section we covered what fits inside the main compartment of the Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag - now lets focus on the pockets and compartments that provide some extra storage and organization.

Laptop Carry

• Daily Backpack - 15” laptop sleeve

• Thirteen Daybag - 13” laptop sleeve

When it comes to laptop carry both backpacks offer a padded laptop sleeve with a false bottom. A false bottom prevents the laptop sleeve from reaching the bottom of the bag. This is a great feature that avoids a lot of heartache when dropping your backpack on the ground as it creates a barrier between your laptop and a hard surface.

The Daily Backpack features a roomy laptop sleeve that can fit most laptops up to 15-inches while the Thirteen Daybag can only hold a laptop up to 13-inches.

13” Apple Macbook fit in the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag padded laptop sleeve.

One thing we noticed is that a 13-inch Macbook was actually a tight fit inside the Thirteen Daybag laptop sleeve. There isn’t much room between the laptop itself and the upper walls of the backpack so when you slip in a 13-inch laptop you’ll have to fold over the top of the backpack to comfortably get access to the laptop sleeve. Tablets (12” and under) will fit inside the Thirteen Daybag laptop sleeve just fine.

Inside Pockets

The Daily Backpack features a large mesh pocket right in front of the laptop sleeve that is perfect for storing things like chargers, cables and other small items you don’t want floating inside the main compartment.

On the other side of the Daily Backpack you’ll find an addition zip pocket and a narrow slip pocket for glasses.

The Thirteen Daybag removes the large mesh pocket for a document sleeve. We found that this document sleeve can also hold a tablet for those who want to carry both a laptop and tablet at the same time. The option for double laptop/tablet carry is a feature that the Daily Backpack lacks all together.

On the other side of the Thirteen Daybag, Able Carry offers a zippered mesh pocket for small item storage.

And they moved the slip pocket down to the side of the main compartment. This pocket is too small for a water bottle but it’s great for small items like a pair of glasses or power bank.

Side-Access Pocket

A common feature in both the Able Carry Daily Backpack and the Thirteen Daybag is the side zip pocket in the front of each bag. What’s great about these pockets is that they expand outward to create extra room when you need it. 

The main difference between these two pockets is their size. Not only is the Daily Backpack’s front pocket larger, but it also includes a leash with a key clip for easy access to your keys.

Unfortunately, the Thirteen Daybag hides its key leash in the zip pocket inside the main compartment but that’s still better than having none at all!

Water Bottle Carry

Another big difference between the Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag is with their water bottle storage. The Thirteen Daybag has a dedicated water bottle or umbrella pocket on the front of the backpack. This pocket is really convenient and we love how it blends into the front of the bag when not in use.

The Daily Backpack does not include a dedicated water bottle pocket. Instead you can store your water bottle inside the side-access pocket. But this pocket is just one large open compartment with no water bottle sleeve so your water bottle will just free-float in there.

The lack of a water bottle pocket in the Daily Backpack is something to keep in mind if you are someone who likes to carry a water bottle and would like a dedicated pocket.

Additional external storage

The Daily Backpack has one last pocket located on the top of the backpack that is perfect for small items like a pair of sunglasses, phone or wallet. 

The Able Carry Thirteen Daybag skips the top pocket for a hidden pocket right behind the back panel. Although this hidden pocket is great for flat items like a passport or airline tickets, anything that isn’t flat will dig into your back. All in all, we don’t know how functional this large hidden pocket is in a commuter or everyday carry situation. 

The last carry feature worth noting are the attachment loops on both the Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag.

Able Carry designed the Daily Backpack with an “A-Frame” anti-sagging straps that double as attachment loops. This A-Frame design is awesome as it allows you to attach carabiners or a bike lock to the outside of the bag.

The Thirteen Daybag does not have an A-Frame but Able Carry cleverly hides a row of small attachment loops on the bottom of the bag. This allows you to have attachment loops when you need them while staying hidden when not in use.

Fit and Comfort Features

When it comes to comfort both backpacks are really comfortable to wear but they are built with differently sized people in mind.

• Daily Backpack: Better for people with wider shoulders and a larger frame.

• Thirteen Daypack: Better for smaller people with narrow shoulders, curved “chest-friendly straps” allow for more comfortable shoulder strap fit in women.

When it comes to comfort the Daily Backpack features a ventilated air-mesh back panel and generously padded shoulder straps. The back panel feels stiff thanks to its foam frame sheet which helps give the bag more structure.

The Thirteen Daybag doesn’t have a frame sheet or air-mesh padding and instead features a quilted padded back panel. But because the Thirteen Daybag is so small you don’t really need a lot of bells and whistles to make this backpack comfortable. 

A lot of the Thriteen Daybag’s comfort really comes from the shoulder straps. If you compare the shoulder straps you’ll see that the Thirteen Daybag has what Able Carry calls “chest-friendly straps.” These shoulder straps are curved to better fit a woman’s body. They are also designed for people with narrow shoulders so all of that adds up to a really comfortable fit if you are on the smaller side.

If you have broader shoulders or a larger frame you are going to want to go with the Daily Backpack because the Thirteen Daybag might be too small of a fit.

One last feature that the Daily backpack includes is a sternum strap. The Thirteen Daybag does not include a sternum strap.

What’s great about this sternum strap is that if you don’t want to use them, Able Carry integrates little pockets on the shoulder straps so you can tuck them away. This avoids annoying dangling straps when they are not in use.

Materials

Cordura Nylon vs XPAC

The Daily Backpack is available in both Cordura Nylon fabric or XPAC depending on the color you choose. The Thirteen Daybag on the other hand is only available in XPAC fabric.

Both fabrics have excellent water resistance, are super tough and are considered best in class when it comes to backpack fabrics but there are some key differences:

Cordura Nylon:

• Heavier weight

• Strong and abrasion resistant

XPAC Fabric:

• Lighter weight

• Great tear resistance

• Signature “X” pattern on the fabric

• Feels more “plastic like” and crunches when you handle it

Both Cordura and XPAC fabrics are really durable and water resistant so it really comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.

Which Able Carry backpack is right for you?

Choose the Able Carry Daily Backpack if… you need room for a 15” laptop and carry a bit more than just the essentials. 20 liters is a great size for an everyday backpack and will be more than enough storage for most commuters. The Daily Backpack has a unisex fit but is better suited for taller people with wider shoulder when compared to the Thirteen Daybag.

Choose the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag if… you need a reliable everyday backpack for just your essentials. The Thirteen Daybag is great for smaller people with shorter torsos and slim shoulders. The contoured “chest friendly straps” and small size is perfect for women who usually find regular sized unisex backpacks too large.

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Best Business Casual Backpacks - When Smart Style Meets Urban Carry

With longer commutes and lugging your office to your home office becoming more frequent it’s no secret that finding a reliable way to carry your daily essentials is more important than ever.

Yet the truth is that modern work places are becoming more relaxed and business casual is quickly becoming the norm for many young professionals. But when the book bag is too immature and the briefcase too formal, a clean and modern business casual backpack is the clear answer.

Here are our top picks for the best business casual backpacks that look refined enough to wear to the office but have all of the functionality we have come to expect from a reliable backpack.

Best Business Casual Backpacks

Able Carry Daily Backpack

Able Carry has impressed us with a minimalist backpack that really packs a punch when it comes to functional design. The Daily Backpack focuses on intuitive pocket placement, high quality materials and ergonomic features for a near-perfect everyday carry solution. 

The Able Carry Daily Backpack is available in lots of different colors - and at 20 liters it’s the perfect unisex business casual backpack for both men and women. What we love most about the Daily Backpack is it’s modern yet mature design. The sleek profile allows you to wear it to everything from morning commutes to client meetings in style.

Nomatic Backpack

The Nomatic Backpack takes what we love about the Nomatic Travel Pack and leaves its best features in a more compact size perfect for daily work carry. What we love most about the Nomatic Backpack is the insane amount of organizational pockets and compartments for every day items like laptop and tech accessories and smaller personal items. Few backpacks even come close to this level of organization.

Design-wise, the Nomatic Backpack is sleek enough to wear to the office thanks to its low-key minimalist design. And with the included side handles, you can wear the Nomatic as a business casual backpack and switch it over to briefcase-mode when it’s time to look more professional.

Knack Pack Expandable Backpack

With their flagship backpack, Knack offers a unisex business casual backpack that can also double as a travel bag for when you are off the clock. Details such as a roomy daily main compartment and hidden expandable travel compartment is what helps elevate the Knack Pack above other bags in its class.

The Knack Pack is available in a variety of colors and sizes so you are bound to find one that’s the perfect look and fit.

Check out our Knack Pack Series 1 vs Series 2 hands-on comparison for a closer look at what Knack has to offer.

Day Owl Backpack

The Day Owl backpack has lots of small design details that make it the perfect business casual backpack. For example, the shoulder straps are designed to not dangle awkwardly, there's a special pocket inside for your water bottle to keep you looking sleek, and there are plenty of pockets to keep you organized all day long.

Not only does the Day Owl have a great design, but it's also made from high-quality and environmentally friendly materials like First-Mile waxed canvas. These materials are built to last and actually look better as they get older. The Day Owl comes in many different colors and two sizes, so it's perfect for anyone looking for the ideal backpack for work.

Timbuk2 Authority Backpack

If we could name just one business casual backpack worth looking into - it would be the Authority. The Timbuk2 Authority backpack is full of small design details that really makes you say “ok, this is pack means business” Examples includes compression straps that keep the bag looking slim and sleek on light carry days, amazing organization pockets for your daily essentials and a super comfy airmesh back panel and shoulder straps that come in the clutch on longer commuters.

Along with great features, the Timbuk2 Authority is also made out of sustainable recycled nylon and is water resistant for protection against light rain. Available in a few different colors - this unisex backpack really checks all the boxes for the perfect backpack for work.

Stubble & Co The The Backpack

Stubble & Co offers a stylish and streamlined business casual laptop backpack with The Backpack. This bag features a premium water resistant waxed canvas construction and natural full grain leather accents throughout that add a touch of sophistication to a timeless silhouette.

The Backpack is equipped with a roomy 21L main compartment for daily essentials that includes a 16-inch padded sleeve to keep your device safe. One thing we love about the The Backpack is it feels as good as it looks. This is thanks to its ergonomic shoulder straps and a breathable cushioned back panel that promotes all day comfort.

Targus Urban Essential Backpack

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At under $50 the Targus Urban Essential backpack is a budget option for those who want a sleek business casual backpack design that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. 

Designed as a backpack for work, the Targus Urban Essential backpack offers a fully padded 15.6” laptop compartment and a main compartment filled with organizer and admin pockets for easy organization of daily essentials.

Best Men’s Professional Backpacks for Work

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The Ridge Commuter Backpack

The Ridge Commuter is a thoughtfully designed backpack made for modern tech-focused carry. What the The Ridge Commuter does well is keep a slim and professional profile while maximizing the pockets and compartments throughout. Examples include a shock-resistant laptop compartment, plenty of exterior and interior pockets for daily essentials and even an exterior USB charging port for phone charging on the go.

If a great design isn’t enough - the Ridge Commuter was also built to survived the outdoors and still look fresh. Each bag features a waterproof shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers to keep your precious items nice and dry. Whether you are looking for a stylish business casual backpack for the office or rugged backpack for days on the beach - the Ridge Commuter has you covered!

Public Rec Pro Pack

The Public Rec Pro Pack offers a great balance between minimalist design and utilitarian carry. While the outside of the bag is understated enough to wear as an office-friendly business casual backpack, the inside is surprisingly organized. 

The main compartment of the Public Rec Pro Pack features plenty of pockets and organizers for daily essentials like keys, pens and business papers while a separate padded laptop compartment keeps your tech safe while on the move. At 20 liters, the Pro Pack is ideal for daily carry but for those who need more room, Public Rec also offers the larger Pro Pack Plus that includes lots of extra features.

COTS Work Laptop Backpack

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Who says that a good work backpack has to cost an arm and a leg? For under $50, COTS offers a stylish option with modern work carry in mind. A clean design makes this backpack office-friendly while the inside is packed with pockets for your laptop, tablet and more. 

The COTS Work Laptop Backpack is thin and structured enough to not look bulky or sloppy when worn. This structured look makes it the perfect business casual backpack for who want to look professional without sacrificing functionality. 

Maverick & Co Vista Waterproof Backpack

The Maverick & Co Vista offers a versatile commuter backpack that doesn’t compromise on quality or functionality thanks to its sleek design and impressive array of pockets. Dress this backpack up with a suit on important meeting days or dress it down for a more casual look - either way the Vista will keep you looking stylish and professional Monday through Friday.

We like the Maverick & Co Vista as a business casual backpack for its thoughtfully designed interior, clamshell main compartment for easy packing and waterproof design. This backpack is made with a waterproof high performance synthetic leather and coupled with a water resistant zippers and a special flap design that gives you maximum protection against the elements.

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