Topo Designs Rover Pack

The Rover Pack is Topo’s premier daily carry rucksack. From its laptop sleeve and thoughtful pocket placement to its tough nylon construction - the Rover Pack is designed to be a companion for both daily commutes and outdoor exploring.

Topo Designs describes the Rover Pack as the “Goldilocks of rucksacks - not too big, not too small, not too fancy, not too simple.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

What we like

• Expandable rucksack design can hold more than it looks. Main compartment is deep and spacious.

• Stylish yet iconic vintage-inspired design. Available in over a dozen colors.

• Lightweight yet built tough with premium nylon materials.

What we don’t like

• No admin compartment with slip pockets for small items like pencils, charging cables, etc. Very small items float around in zip pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17” H x 11” W x 4.5” D

• Capacity: 20L

• Materials: 1000D Nylon, 420D Nylon Pack Cloth, 420D Recycled Nylon

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 15”

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Lo & Sons The Hakuba

The Hakuba by Lo & Sons is a gym, travel and commuting backpack designed to be as versatile as you are. One special feature of the Hakuba is its removable insert that can be adjusted as needed to increase the space inside the main compartment. A mesh divider on the insert allows you to keep the bottom compartment divided for shoes and laundry or you can roll the divider up to take advantage of the full 35.5 liter main compartment.

When it comes to pockets, the Hakuba gives you plenty of organization throughout. Quick-access pockets on the top of the bag are real life savers when traveling and the zippered side pockets give you storage for water bottles on work out days and discreetly stay in place for a more streamlined look at the office.

What we like

• Clever removable insert allows you to adjust main compartment storage as needed

• Stylish minimalist design

• Bottom compartment is perfect for shoes or dirty laundry

• Discreet side water bottle pockets that stay out of the way when not in use

What we DON’T like

• Curved bottom won’t allow the Hakuba to stand straight up without toppling over when placed on the ground

• Steep price - the Lo & Sons Hakuba retails for $275

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21.5"H x 13"W x 7.75"D

• Capacity: 35.5L

• Material: 600D Recycled Poly, water resistant zippers, memory foam shoulder straps

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15” laptop

Where to buy

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Able Carry Max Backpack

Able Carry departs from their smaller daypacks and offers their first larger multi-function bag for work, play and travel with the Max backpack.

As a clamshell backpack, the Max offers a generous 30 liter main compartment that can be used for anything from workout days to multi-day travel. The admin compartment located behind the main compartment gives you the convenience of a mobile office by featuring a large 17” laptop sleeve and plenty of pockets for pens, paperwork and tech accessories.

If you serious about finding one bag to rule them all then we definitely recommend taking a closer look at the Able Carry Max backpack.

What we like

• Large clamshell main compartment allows for easy packing and unpacking. Comes in handy on travel and gym days!

• Hidden water bottle pocket keeps the outside of the bag looking streamlined and our drinking bottles clean.

• Cordura bottom, ripstop lining and nylon webbing makes the bag feel like great quality both inside and out.

What we DON’T like

• We would love to see a secondary padded sleeve for a tablet.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20.5"H x 12.5"W x 8"D

• Capacity: 30L

• Material: XPAC Shell, 1000D Cordura Nylon, 420D Ripstop Nylon

• Weight: 3.79lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

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Knack Pack Series 2

The Knack Series 2 expandable backpack is the newest update to the best selling Knack Pack - a daily backpack that expands into an ultra-functional travel pack.

With the Series 2, Knack has managed to keep the best parts of the original Knack Pack and add killer features such as more internal organization, improved security and a brand new streamlined look.

What sets the Knack Pack Series 2 apart from other hybrid bags is that it doesn’t compromise on daily carry features. Inside you’ll find a generous main compartment that is separate from the travel compartment, a new front internal organizer compartment and separate laptop compartment. We love how the expandable travel compartment is out of the way until you need it.

What we like

• Top-notch materials like the full grain napa leather give this backpack a premium, and dare we say luxurious, feel.

• For an expandable backpack the Knack Series 2 is surprisingly lightweight. When compressed, it’s about the size of a regular 24L daily backpack with little extra bulk.

• Amazing pocket variety for both everyday and travel items. The daily main compartment is separate from the expandable travel compartment for a true convertible backpack experience.

What we DON’T like

• We love the hidden side water pocket but unfortunately you will be limited to only storing slimmer bottles. Wider bottles, like a 32oz Nalgene bottle or larger Yeti tumbler, will not fit.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19"H x 12"W x 4.5"D (unexpanded)

• Capacity: 24L-35L

• Material: Water resistant 420D Nylon or Polyester Ottoman Fabric. Full grain Napa leather touch points.

• Weight: 3lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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HEX Technical Backpack (with wireless charging)

HEX raises the bar for modern carry with their new Technical Backpack.

The HEX Technical Backpack has two standout features: It’s made with antimicrobial fabric technology which repels up to 99% of harmful bacteria and features an innovative wireless charging pocket that gives you hands-free phone charging anywhere you go.

One of the things we love about this backpack is that it feels like great quality when you handle it. The bag is made out of super durable Cordura ballistic nylon and YKK zippers so you know it’s made to last. Add in a 16” faux fur laptop sleeve and a myriad of pockets and you have the perfect daily driver for work or play.

Read our full HEX Technical Backpack review for a more in-depth look.

What we like

• Made with antimicrobial fabric technology to keep germs to a minimum.

• Ability to charge your phone wirelessly thanks to the special charging pocket

• Plenty of pockets for your everyday gear: laptop, accessories and personal items.

What we DON’T like

• Bring your own power bank: In order to take advantage of the wireless charging pocket you need a wireless power bank. Fortunately, HEX sells their own Wireless Power Bank that is guaranteed to work flawlessly with the wireless charging pocket.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5"H x 11.5"W x 4.75"D

• Capacity: 17.5L

• Material: 1680 Cordura ballistic nylon, YKK EYL woven “tough zippers” Antimicrobial technology on the fabric.

• Weight: 2lbs

• Laptop Sleeve: Up to 16”

Where to buy

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Black Ember Shadow

The Shadow backpack is the latest edition to the Black Ember family and it features all that we come to love about the brand in a smaller profile.

Designed as a simpler daypack for daily carry, the Black Ember Shadow is anything but simple. The Shadow is equipped with a waterproof construction thanks to its waterproof nylon crossweave exterior and YKK Aquaguard zippers. Black Ember also gives you full clamshell access to the main compartment where you’ll find pocket for everything from your tech to smaller daily essentials.

Available in either 22 liter or 26 liter sizes - the Black Ember Shadow is a nice compliment to its bigger minimalist brother the Black Ember Citadel R2.

What we like

• Waterproof materials: Great for protecting expensive tech and gear.

• Minimalist exterior: Black Ember keeps the design clean and simple without any flashy design features or obnoxious branding.

• Lighter weight: Black Ember’s use of nylon crossweave is a nice departure from some of their other heavier-duty backpacks.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Capacity: 22L or 26L

• Material: Waterproof Nylon Crossweave, YKK Aquaguard zippers, 200D Ripstop lining

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Stitch Traveler

Originally made for golf enthusiasts on the move, the Stitch Traveler is a versatile travel backpack that is more than meets the eye. The main compartment is large enough to store a change of clothes (or two if you pack light) for an easy transition from work to play without skipping a beat. And the rear compartment if filled with pockets for the daily grind such as a 15” padded laptop sleeve, document sleeve and smaller pockets for essentials.

One neat feature that Stitch offers is a customizable metal initials ingot that is attached to the front of the bag for a one of a kind bag that can be used for work, workouts, golf and weekend travel.

What we like

• Laptop and organizer compartment in the back is excellent. Plenty of pockets for daily essentials.

• 3-side zipper entry makes loading and unloading the backpack easy.

• Makes a great work-to-golf or work and gym backpack. Allows you to keep your daily items separate from a change of clothes.

What we don’t like

• Main compartment is just one open compartment with little organization. We wish there were more pockets on the inside of the main compartment to separate travel items (socks, toiletries, shoes, laundry)

• Missed opportunity to include a dirty laundry/shoe compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 12 W" x 8.25" D

• Materials:  Water and stain resistant ballistic nylon and YKK zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

• 2-in-1 backpack to duffle design

Where to buy

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GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack

GBY Ultralight claims that their Ultralight Laptop Day Pack is the lightest laptop backpack in the world… and we believe it! This backpack weighs only 12.8 ounces and still manages to squeeze in a protective high density foam sleeve for a laptop or tablet. While other backpacks may be light, very few make laptop protection a priority like the GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack does.

Although much of the design-inspiration comes from lightweight outdoor packs the Ultralight Laptop Day Pack is ultimately designed for urban carry and daily commuting. A single slip pocket on the inside is great for small items or documents while a weatherproof side zip pocket allows for quick access to essentials like a water bottle, passport or sunglasses. The laptop sleeve is fully padded with a false bottom so your laptop doesn’t touch the bottom of the bag when placed on the ground.

What we like

• It’s not a gimmick - this is the lightest laptop backpack we have ever come across. The difference between the GBY Ultralight and your standard laptop backpack is night and day.

• Water resistant fabric and zippers makes it great for commuting on rainy days.

• Really comfortable - the light weight + ergonomic shoulder straps feels like wearing air.

What we don’t like

• Organization is limited. You are limited to only two pockets for smaller items - one slip pocket on the inside and the side zip pocket on the outside. Could use another small pocket for organizing things like pens, keys and charging cables.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11 W" x 6.7" D

• Weight: 12.8 oz.

• Volume: 20L

• Materials:  Japanese SS2-Ultra waterproof fabric, YKK water resistant zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Nomatic Travel Pack

The Nomatic Travel Pack is a great option for anyone who wants a smaller weekender backpack for short trips. At a 30 liter max capacity, it’s the perfect size for one or two nights away. Features like a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and roller bag sleeve make it ideal for airport carry.

Nomatic also does a great job with its generous pocket and compartment placement. Not only do you have essential pockets like an RFID safe pocket and a top pocket for sunglasses or a wallet, but you also have a generous front compartment with tons of organizers for smaller items. It’s a great way to keep you organized no matter how busy your travels.

What we like

• Lifetime warranty

• Lots of pockets and great organization options for smaller items.

• Can be carried as a backpack or briefcase.

• Awesome magnetic water bottle pocket keeps the bag’s profile clean and professional when not in use.

What we don’t like

• It’s heavy - at over 4 lbs the backpack gets heavy quick when filled to capacity.

• Great as a travel bag but impractical to use as a daily backpack. It’s a bit too bulky and heavy (see above) to use as a work backpack.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.5” H x 12” W x 9.5" D

• Weight: 4.16 lbs

• Volume: 20-30L (expandable)

• Materials:  Polyester with PVC coated water resistant fabric on the front

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

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Chrome Summoner Backpack

The Chrome Modal is all about smart carry by providing easy access to your essentials while you are on the move. Just like the larger Chrome Macheto, the Modal’s main compartment is made of up of a dual organizer system that allows for separation of items.

Even when the main compartment is zippered shut, each section is easily accessible from the outside. The front compartment can be accessed from the front like a duffel bag while the back compartment that holds your laptop can be accessed from the top of the bag.

What we like

• Really sleek modern design that gives you easy access to virtually every pocket and organizer inside the bag.

• Dual internal organizational compartments keeps things neat and separate inside the main compartment.

What we don’t like

• No external water bottle pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 13” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 32L

• Materials: Polyester/600D Twill melange fabric

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Aer Travel Pack 2

The Aer Travel Pack 2 is a comprehensive travel backpack that is perfect for one bag travel. Its roomy main compartment opens up like a suitcase for instant access to multiple days worth of clothing and personal items. Organizing your daily essentials has never been easier thanks to the Travel Pack’s front panel organizer, separate laptop compartment and smaller pockets for quick access items.

What we like

• Lots of accessible pockets which are perfect for organizing smaller items.

• Incredibly durable ballistic nylon feels rugged enough to withstand years of heavy use. Zippers also feel high quality.

• We love the addition of a separate shoe/dirty clothes pocket.

What we don’t like

• Main compartment doesn’t include any tie down straps or mesh dividers to keep clothing and items from spilling out when opening. If you plan on using packing cubes than this shouldn’t be an issue.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21.5” H x 13.5” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 33L

• Materials: 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon

• Weight: 3.7 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

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eBags Professional Weekender Backpack

The eBags Professional Weekender is a larger travel version of the everyday eBags Professional Slim. Changes to the design include a larger carrying capacity, more organizer pockets and a Travel Sentry approved laptop compartment that is TSA-friendly.

The bag is considered a convertible thanks to its stowable shoulder straps that can be tucked away as needed. Size-wise, the eBags Professional Weekender is small enough to fit in overhead storage bins on smaller domestic airlines.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Has a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and a separate pocket for a tablet.

• Perfect for extra large laptops - can fit a laptop up to 18-inches.

What we don’t like

• The bag is not versatile - its size and weight keeps it strictly a travel bag. As a daypack or daily carry bag, it’s simply too bulky and heavy.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 14” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 31.9L

• Weight: 3lbs 7oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 18”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

When it comes to organization, very few work backpacks come as close to the thoughtful design of the eBags Professional Slim. The bag does two things very well; organizing your stuff and keeping a slim and professional look that won’t look out of place in a corporate setting.

The backpack can be divided into 3 sections; the front organizer zip pocket and “garage” pocket on the bottom, the main compartment with L-shape zip access, and finally the padded laptop compartment.

eBags offers this bag in two sizes - the eBags Professional Slim (21.6 liters) and the smaller eBags Professional Slim Junior (16.7 liters). The specs on this page are for the regular 21.6 liter version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for daily work commuting or business trips.

• Water bottle pocket can be tucked away when not in use.

• Great for those with large laptops (fits up to 17-inches)

What we don’t like

• At almost 4 pounds, the backpack is a bit on the heavy side considering its size.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12.75” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 21.6L

• Weight: 3lbs 13oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Dobby Fabric

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack

The Briggs & Riley Cargo is perfect for anyone looking for a professional looking weekender backpack to take with them on busy work trips. The main compartment opens up like a suitcase for full access to clothes, shoes and other personal items. The front pockets are perfect for smaller items and provide quick-access to essentials such as an iPad, pens, passports and eyeglasses.

What we like

• Structured professional design. Looks and feels like a quality backpack.

• Small enough to be used as a carry-on or airline personal item. Fits underneath airplane seats.

What we don’t like

• Not fully weatherproof. Leaks are a possibility if caught in a heavy downpour which is a disappointment at this price point.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 11.5” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 24L

• Weight: 2.3 lbs

• Material: Proprietary nylon twill

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Chrome Hondo Backpack

The Chrome Hondo is a midsize water resistant backpack for those who need a reliable commuter pack for work, school or exploring the city. The backpack keeps it simple with only a laptop sleeve and organizer in the main compartment and two side pockets and a front stash pocket on the outside. The Hondo is great for those who prefer a back-to-basics backpack that doesn’t have a million pockets and organizers for stuff to get lost in.

What we like

• Water resistant design makes it ideal for cyclist and city commuters.

• The bag looks and feels high quality. 1050D nylon feels like it will hold up to abuse and the metal buckle on the sternum strap is a nice touch.

What we don’t like

• Side pockets have no give to them. It can be hard to fit a water bottle in there if the pack is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 11” W x 5.5” D

• Capacity: 21L

• Materials: 1050D Nylon

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Chrome Urban EX Rolltop Backpack

The Chrome Urban Ex is a waterproof rolltop backpack that packs a punch with a roomy main compartment, laptop sleeve and separate padded iPad sleeve. The outside of the pack offers a small quick stash pocket on the top of the bag while loops on the front of the bag act as attachments for bike locks.

The Chrome Urban Ex Rolltop backpack comes in three sizes:

• 28L Urban Ex

• 22L Urban Ex Gas Can

• 18L Urban Ex

The photos and specs on this page are for the 28 liter version.

What we like

• Padded shoulder straps and back are comfortable and distributes weight evenly when pack is full.

• Waterproof design makes it ideal for cyclist and city commuters.

What we don’t like

• Lack of outside pockets for things like water bottles and other quick access items. Only outside pocket is the top pocket for a small item like a passport or phone.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 14” W x 6” D

• Capacity: 28L

• Materials: 600D Polyester/Nylon upper and synthetic rubber bottom

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15” + padded iPad sleeve

Where to buy

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Topo Designs Daypack

The Topo Designs Daypack is a versatile daily carry bag for work, school or the hiking trail. Designed to be a true path to pavement backpack, the Daypack features everything you would need for both city life and outdoor adventuring with a laptop sleeve, internal pockets, side water bottle pockets and plenty of loops and tabs for attaching things to the outside of the bag.

The Topo Daypack comes in a few flavors: The premium Daypack Heritage Canvas (Made in the USA), Daypack Tech and the more affordable Daypack Classic.

What we like

• Beefy YKK zippers

• Tough nylon construction makes the bag feel sturdy and incredibly well-built.

• Cool throwback mountaineering design. Lots of color options.

What we don’t like

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11” W x 5” D

• Capacity: 21.6L

• Materials: 1000D Recycled Nylon, 210 Recycled Nylon Liner

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible

The TLS Mother Lode is one of eBag’s most popular travel bags thanks to its large carry capacity and thoughtful design that makes travel organization easier than ever. At almost 60 liters, the Mother Lode is perfect for one-bag travelers or for those who need a large airline carry-on backpack.

eBags offers the TLS Mother Lode backpack in two sizes:

• TLS Mother Lode (59.8 liters)

• TLS Mother Lode Jr (41.6 liters)

The photos and specs on this page are for the full size 59.8 liter TLS Mother Lode.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets with a large main compartment for clothing. Perfect for 7+ day trips.

• Durable fabric and construction. Feels like it will hold up to common travel abuse.

• Great for extra large laptops - can fit a laptop up to 19-inches.

What we don’t like

• Chest and waist straps are actually pretty crappy. Chest strap has the tendency to come loose when in use while the waist strap is thin and provides very little support.

• No TSA friendly laptop compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 22” H x 14” W x 9” D

• Capacity: 59.8L

• Weight: 3lbs 15oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 19”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Bellroy Classic Backpack

Made for modern urban carry, the Bellroy Classic Backpack was designed for anyone who wants a small reliable backpack for everyday use.

The Classic Backpack’s design is mature enough to wear to work, gym or on the weekends without feeling like you are lugging around a kid’s school bag. Its size is not too overbearing or bulky but somehow it manages to comfortably carry our essentials thanks to it’s thoughtfully designed pocket placement and roomy main compartment for bulkier items.

What we like

• Well constructed design that feels quality. Leather accents give the bag a premium feel.

• Laptop and file sleeves in the main compartment are well designed. Able to safely hold laptop, files or tablet and pen.

What we don’t like

• No other outside pockets except for a small valuables pocket on the top of the bag. This means you have to open the main compartment to fetch smaller items like sunglasses or water bottle.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.29” H x 14.57” W x 2.76” D

• Capacity: 17L

• Materials: Venture-weave polyester with leather accents

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

The Timbuk2 Never Check is a carry-on travel backpack that can double as a daily work or weekend bag. A gusseted main compartment allows the backpack to expand when you need more room while smaller pockets on the front are perfect for passports, water bottles and other smaller items.

What we like

• Design is sleek and pairs well with business casual attire.

• Side laptop compartment access allows you to grab your tech without having to rummage through the main compartment.

• Versatile - can also be used as a daily work bag.

What we don’t like

• Front zip pocket can be hard to access, especially when the bag is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 12” W x 6.3” D

• Weight: 2.6lbs

• Capacity: 24L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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