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The 11 Best Sling Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our favorite sling bags come in a variety of styles and sizes for any trip type.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Sling bags have become wildly popular in the last few years, but the crossbody-style bags have always been a staple for traveling. Sling bags typically have a larger capacity than an average purse while still feeling compact and secure since you can easily swing the bags to the front of your body.

Whether you’re in search of the perfect travel bag for flying, hiking, shopping, or for everyday use like running errands, we got our hands on more than 30 sling bags from trusted brands to find the best of the best for anyone’s needs. From outdoorsy bags made with weather-proof materials to chic leather slings to pair with any outfit, we found a variety of top-tier bags that impressed us with a functional design for staying organized and high-quality materials that will last no matter where your travels take you.

Best Overall

The north face isabella sling.

The North Face

• Capacity 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

The capacity is big enough to fit essential items without feeling bulky.

It has a sportier look.

The North Face’s Isabella Sling is the perfect pack for traveling and everyday use — in fact, we used it a few times each week for six months and were surprised at how well it's held up. The 9-liter capacity is generous enough to fit a tablet, snacks, and a wallet with plenty of room to spare, but it’s still lightweight and compact to carry around. There are various pockets on the interior and exterior for staying organized and we’re big fans of the padded pocket on the strap for safeguarding a phone or sunglasses while out and about. Made out of durable recycled heathered polyester, the sling bag feels thick and well-made, so we didn’t run into any issues with quality during testing. The strap and back panel have ample padding for comfort and the crossbody strap is adjustable to get the perfect fit. It does have a more rugged look, but the functionality and organization make it well worth it whether you’re hiking, running errands, or sightseeing.

The Details: 14.5 x 9.5 x 5.5 inches | Recycled 300D heathered polyester | 9 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jodi Espinosa

Best Expandable

Peak design field pouch v2.

Peak Design

It can double in size for versatility.

The strap could be more comfortable.

Sometimes you need more or less space in a bag depending on the intended use, which makes Peak Design’s expandable sling bag incredibly versatile. While it’s designed to store a small camera, it can also hold everyday items like a phone, passport, wallet, and headphones. The sling bag has a 1.5-liter capacity that can easily expand to three liters thanks to the velcro front flap and there are several dividers inside the bag to organize packed items. Weather-proof and sturdy, the nylon canvas material looks as sleek as it is durable with a structured and lightweight build. Our only gripe with the sling bag is that the adjustable crossbody strap doesn’t match the high-quality feel of the bag materials, so we wish it was a different material for aesthetic and comfort purposes. However, the bag also comes with belt loops to wear the pack on standard and photo-specific belts.

The Details: 9.4 x 7.5 x 0.4 inches | Nylon canvas | 1.5 or 3 liters | Weather-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Dylan Thompson

Cotopaxi 13L Sling Pack

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

It’s plenty big enough to fit jackets, water bottles, snacks, and tablets.

It might be too big to use as a daily bag.

Cotopaxi’s spacious sling pack is basically a mini backpack with a crossbody strap instead, which makes it perfect for long days away from home when you want some extra storage. The 13-liter capacity makes it easy to pack a variety of items in the pack thanks to the large main compartment for jackets, tablets, or a water bottle, and the several smaller pockets are fit for car keys or phones. Since the sling is made with TPU-coated nylon for water resistance, you can wear it in the rain, snow, or sleet without any fear of the packed items getting wet or damaged. We love that the pack can be worn over the right or left shoulder depending on personal preference and the padding on the back panel and strap provide noticeable comfort no matter where your day takes you. After six months of hiking and bike-riding while wearing the bag, it still looks new and has become a reliable part of our outdoor routine.

The Details: 18 x 10 x 5 inches | Recycled 840D TPU-coated nylon | 13 liters | Weather-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum

Best Rugged

Kavu rope bag sling pack.

The adjustable rope strap molds to the body for a flexible and comfortable fit for activities.

The rope can be rough on bare skin.

For outdoorsy trips that include hiking, biking, or an activity out in Mother Nature, we recommend the Kavu Rope Sling. It’s made with a water-resistant polyester material that comes in dozens of outdoor-inspired prints and patterns, which also makes it a good gift option for nature lovers. Besides the unique fabric designs, this bag proved to excel in comfort during testing thanks to the flexible rope crossbody strap that contours to the upper body and balances the weight of the pack. We found the rope strap to be slightly rough on bare skin, so we recommend having a layer of clothing between the strap and the skin for the most comfort. With a 10-liter capacity, the lightweight pack can store everyday essentials like jackets, water bottles, and snacks, and there are various pockets for storing both small and large items.

The Details: 20 x 11 x 5 inches | Polyester | 10 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Kathryn Standing

Best for Water Bottles

Nomatic navigator sling.

It has convenient internal and external water bottle pockets.

After six months of testing, we noticed it can be hard to remove stains from the textured fabric.

Stay hydrated on the go with this sleek and functional Nomatic sling bag that offers not one, but two designated water bottle pockets. The structured design of the 6-liter bag makes it easy to place various items like a tablet or jacket in the bag without losing its shape. The interior has a water bottle sleeve and several zippered pockets, and the exterior features a side slip pocket to conveniently access another bottle or phone without having to reach into the bag. While this is one of the pricier bags we tested, it comes with extra features like a removable stabilizing strap, a RFID-blocking pocket, and a designated tablet sleeve for devices up to 11 inches long. Plus, the sturdy nylon fabric is water resistant, so this pack is fit for running errands or commuting to work in inclement weather.

The Details: 9 x 4 x 3.5 inches | Nylon | 6 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham

Best Padding

Osprey daylite sling backpack.

• Capacity 2 /5
• Portability 5 /5

The back panel is lined with a padded spacer mesh material for superior comfort and breathability.

The crossbody strap isn’t fully padded.

During testing, this sporty sling bag impressed us with superior comfort and breathability thanks to the padded and mesh-lined back panel. The bag has an anatomical design to fit comfortably on the back or chest whether the bag is worn over the right or left shoulder, and we were big fans of the convertible option. With a 6-liter capacity, this bag is on the smaller side, but it can still fit everyday essentials like a phone, wallet, keys, and earbuds. The main compartment is spacious and easy to access, and there are just a few pockets to keep your small items organized. While we found this bag to be exceptionally lightweight and comfortable to carry, the crossbody strap is only padded around the shoulder and then it becomes a regular nylon strap that you can adjust for a tighter or looser fit. During our six-month tests, we even spilled coffee on the bag and were able to throw it in the washing machine on a delicate cycle and it cleaned up perfectly.

The Details: 14.17 x 8.66 x 5.12 inches | Recycled polyester | 6 liters

Travel + Leisure / Kristen Cleveland

Vera Bradley Mini Sling Backpack

It’s the perfect size for storing everyday essentials.

It feels a bit bulky to wear for long periods of time.

For travelers looking for a sling bag that is just as stylish as it is functional, this Vera Bradley one is the best bet. It can easily fit a wallet, phone, book, or other smaller items, and the main compartment is surprisingly spacious with several front pockets to conveniently access credit cards and a phone when you’re in a hurry or multi-tasking. The sling bag is quite a bit smaller than any type of backpack, but we did feel like the bag was a bit bulky to wear as a fanny pack, so it’s most comfortable to wear as a sling bag with the main compartment in the back. Arguably, the best part of any Vera Bradley travel accessory is the bold colors and patterns, so we love the various floral prints or solid color options this sling comes in.

The Details: 13.5 x 7 x 2.5 inches | Recycled polyester | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Hyman

Best for Runners

Janji sling bag.

The bag is deceptively slim, but it can stretch to hold items as big as water bottles.

It’s designed for runners, but can be worn for everyday use.

While the Janji Multipass Sling Bag is technically designed for runners, we think it works well for highly active travelers as well. The sleek and slim shape of the bag makes it easy to wear it over the shoulder, across the body, or around the waist for a comfortable and convertible fit. It looks small capacity-wise, but we were thoroughly impressed to see that the bag could hold everyday items like a wallet, phone, and keys, and there’s a bungee cord in the back of the sling to secure a jacket or water bottle while on the go. The durable polyester material is ultra-lightweight and water-resistant, so after six months of use it still looks new. Plus, runners will also appreciate the slim design for light packing and crossbody strap for extra security during strenuous activities.

The Details: 6.5 x 6.25 x 4 inches | Polyester, nylon | 2 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Cluci Sling Bag

The stylish and functional bag is a fraction of the price compared to other bags we tested.

The materials show noticeable wear and tear over time.

In a pinch for a last-minute travel bag? This faux leather sling bag can be shipped quickly with an Amazon Prime membership and it goes with virtually any outfit. We’re big fans of the medium size of the main compartment that can hold a book, wallet, and sunglasses with ease, and we were able to squeeze in lip balm and keys in the smaller interior pockets, too. The material is soft like regular leather and the nylon woven strap doesn’t dig into the skin or cause any discomfort. The bag does show some slight wear and tear on the external material after six months of use, but we still think the value is excellent given the lower price and overall style.

The Details: 15.5 x 6.9 x 2.8 inches | Vegan leather | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Quince Italian Pebbled Leather Sling Bag

• Value 4.5 /5

The Italian leather material gives the bag a sleek and timeless look.

The leather material is not water resistant.

If you’re in search of a sling bag to complement a brunch-worthy outfit, then Quince’s Italian leather sling bag is the best option. The soft pebbled leather feels high-quality and proved to be scratch-resistant throughout our six months of tests while the cotton lining on the interior protects the bag and the items packed inside. We love that the bag is medium-sized so it can easily fit phones, wallets, earbuds, and passports, and it doesn’t feel cumbersome to carry across the chest or around the waist, The nylon belt can be a bit finicky to adjust due to the metal hardware, but you can adjust it to a range of lengths to wear the bag in different ways. Plus, the chic sling bag comes in three earth-toned colors, including brown, beige, and black.

The Details: 11 x 5.75 x 1.5 inches | Leather, cotton

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Best Organization

Patagonia atom sling bag.

There are tons of pockets and dividers to organize your items neatly.

The asymmetrical design means it can only be worn over the right shoulder.

The intuitive and useful design of Patagonia’s Atom Sling Bag won us over in the organization department since it has the ideal number of pockets for storing items. The various pockets combined with the 8-liter capacity means that everything has a spot without getting lost in a void of empty space. For storing books or a tablet, the main compartment has a fabric divider to keep more fragile items separated, and there is a spacious front zippered pocket for placing grab-and-go items like sunglasses, car keys, or earbuds. Best of all, the small pocket on the strap of the bag is perfect for storing a phone so you can be totally hands-free while traveling. We spilled sunscreen on the bag during our six month tests and were able to clean it off using a small amount of dish soap. One thing to note is that the asymmetrical design of the sling can only be worn over the right shoulder, so if you’re used to wearing a sling bag over the left shoulder, you’ll have to get used to the different (but super comfortable) feel of this bag.

The Details: 13.5 x 9 x 3 inches | Recycled polyester, nylon | 8 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jill DeForest Colvig

Other Sling Bags We Liked

We’re still fans of the sling bags listed below, but we ran into some slight issues during testing that prevented several from making our winner’s list.

Codeofbell Annex Carrier 3-way Sling : The modular design is ideal for versatility, but when the bag is packed full, it feels bulky and cumbersome to carry.

Nike Sportswear Essentials Sling Bag 8L : We were impressed with the durability and high-quality feel of the materials, but the bag is awkward to carry and difficult to adjust to find a comfortable fit.

We researched and selected 16 sling bags in various sizes, colors, and designs to find the best options on the market. For several months, we wore the sling bags for activities like air travel, running errands, and hiking to take notes on the functionality of each sling bag. Specifically, we paid close attention to the quality of the materials, analyzing how durable the zippers, fabric, and buckles feel with rough handling. We also noted how easy it was to access items and the overall comfort of the sling bag after being worn for hours on end. The best sling bags we recommend are easy to adjust for a comfortable fit, have multiple intuitive pockets for organizing items, and are made with long-lasting and highly durable materials that will ensure the bag has a long lifespan.

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Tips for Buying a Sling Bag

Decide what materials you need.

One of the most compelling reasons to invest in a sling bag is that it can be your most versatile accessory in a wardrobe capsule. Since sling bags come in all types of fabrics and sizes, you’ll want to consider your primary use of the bag. Outdoor enthusiasts will likely gravitate toward a bag with a more rugged look with nylon or canvas materials that are weather-proof and can handle rigorous activities like hiking, running, or biking. Travelers looking for a more everyday-style bag will appreciate leather material that they can dress up or down easily for day-to-nighttime use.

Strike a balance between style and features

Of course, the look and feel of a sling bag are big factors when deciding which one to get, but you can’t forget to consider the most important thing: functionality. If a sling bag is uncomfortable to wear, you might not use it as much, so you’ll want to make sure you get a bag that offers features like an ambidextrous design to wear over either shoulder. You’ll also want to make sure that the bag has a variety of intuitive pockets and smooth zippers that make it easy to swing the bag to the front of the body to grab items conveniently.

In general, a sling bag can be either a crossbody bag or belt bag, but you can’t wear a sling pack around your waist like a fanny pack. Sling bags are designed with one single crossbody strap that can sometimes be worn on either shoulder, but never around the waist like a fanny pack. Wearing a belt bag over a sling bag has become a wildly popular trend, but sling bags don’t usually offer the same modular design as a fanny pack. Sling bags are also bigger than a fanny pack or crossbody bag with capacities from 6 to 13 liters.

Since sling bags are a bit bigger than a traditional fanny pack, travelers can fit essentials like wallets, passports, earbuds, and phones, along with a few bigger items like a book, sweater, or tablet. While it depends on the size and capacity of the sling bag, they are excellent personal items to bring on an airplane or used for everyday activities like running errands or sightseeing.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna tested a sling bag herself and combed through product testing notes to recommend the best of the best sling bags for traveling, running errands, and shopping.

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The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel in 2024 [Men & Women]

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The Benefits of a Sling Backpack

Things to consider with sling backpacks, 1. a bargain backpack perfect for everyday use, 2. big-brand quality for a compact carry bag, 3. retro looks and modern-day convenience, 4. get festival-ready with a rope bag, 6. military styling for modern-day ops of all kinds, 7. a stylish, tablet-friendly urban sling bag, 8. bright, bold, and beautiful: funky sling bags suitable for all occasions, 9. a rugged, water-resistant sling backpack, 10. super-secure with integrated combination lock, 11. locking zippers and slash-resistant fabrics, 12. large enough to cope, yet light enough to carry, 13. vintage cool for the man about town, 14. security conscious sling bag with locking zippers, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Sling backpacks are well-suited for trendy travelers, surf dudes, sun worshipers, and mountain climbers alike. Slinging your stuff over your shoulder has never been easier, and there are plenty of crossbody bags out there for you to choose from.

Though a sling backpack will dramatically reduce the amount of useable storage space available compared to a standard backpack, it will still offer you a sleek, chic, and useful way to carry your belongings .

Sling packs allow you to keep your hands free and give you the option to wear it either across your body or close to your chest. You can adjust the shoulder strap to find your perfect setting, and padded and breathable back panels will prevent you from getting hot and sweaty.

These types of bags also offer super fast access to your belongings , and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long journeys and daily adventures. Some are even large enough to carry your laptop and other items with you, while others are only suitable for essentials.

Hot Tip: Sling backpacks are particularly useful as camera bags since they make it so quick and easy to access your camera. However, if you’d prefer to travel with a specific bag for your camera, here’s a great guide on the best travel camera bags .

Every sling-style backpack is different from the next. Available in a wide range of colors, styles, and sizes, the right sling is as stylish and practical as you are. Consider the following before making your decision:

Size and Capacity

Sling backpacks are more compact than a big backpack and have a much slimmer silhouette. With anywhere from 5- to 30-liter capacity options, the average sling backpack can hold around 8 to 10 liters of your most personal belongings on the move.

Part of the beauty of a sling is its streamlined look and sleek shape. The downside of the sling is that it will never hold as much as a regular backpack — so you shouldn’t expect it to. Designed to be much more minimalist, your sling backpack is there to carry essential items like your cash, coins, wallet , phone, noise-canceling headphones , and sometimes an e-reader or tablet.

Material and Durability

Sling bags need to look great and be built to last. For durability, choose a bag that is made from a strong, hard-wearing material such as canvas or heavy cotton.

If you are planning on heading out into unpredictable weather or considering a water-based adventure, you may want to look at nylon or PVC bags to help protect against water damage.

Bottom Line: Because of the way you wear the bag, the fabric will need to be smooth enough not to chafe and breathable enough to prevent sweat patches from forming on your upper body.

The key to comfort when wearing your sling backpack is to keep it light. Carry just a few of your most essential belongings, and you’ll have a load far lighter than over-stuffed backpacks.

But pack too much, and you will soon know about it! Unlike traditional backpacks , with a sling, the weight is not evenly distributed across both shoulders. This can lead to a sore shoulder on 1 side of your body if the load is too heavy.

Sling backpacks are designed to offer flexibility when wearing, but this means you lose some of the additional stability and support features that traditional backpacks offer. Waist belts, sternum straps, and other load-relieving elements are not present on a sling backpack.

The 14 Best Sling Backpacks for Travel

• Waterfly Chest Sling Backpack

With a sleek and straightforward design, this ultra-lightweight sling backpack looks great and will handle all your daily commuting or vacationing essentials. Made from soft, water-resistant nylon, this sling has a 7-liter capacity and plenty of extra pockets.

The main compartment is large enough to comfortably transport your iPad or a magazine, while the extra key rack, card pouch, wallet pouch, notebook pouch, and 2 pen pouches will keep all your gear safe and organized on the move. For super-easy hydration on packed trains, long walks, or anywhere else, the side mesh pockets will keep your water bottle close at hand.

Your shoulder strap can be adjusted to fit any size or shape and can be moved from 23.6 inches to 43.3 inches. On the strap itself, there is a useful little pouch that will keep your phone safe and accessible.

All in all, this is a nice little sling backpack that you can take anywhere.

What We Like

• Handy pouch on the sling strap for quick access to items

What We Don’t Like

• Water bottle holder is a bit small

• Osprey Packs Daylite Shoulder Sling

Made by one of the world’s most reputable luggage brands , the Daylite Sling from Osprey is perfect for your daily commute, days out, or a trip to the beach. Small enough to be easy to carry, yet roomy enough to hold everything you need, this is an outstanding quality sling pack.

This pack is made from high-quality, ripstop nylon and features Osprey’s soft and breathable NeoSpacer mesh material on the shoulder strap for superior comfort. The Daylite promises to be water-resistant and extremely comfortable to carry, including a key clip and front zippered mesh pocket for storing smaller items.

The Daylite comes in a choice of 4 funky colors, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a good quality sling backpack from a leading luggage brand.

• Padded and breathable sling strap
• Designed to be worn on the right shoulder only

• Leaper Retro Sling Bag

Made from soft and washable canvas with accents of elegant-looking PU leather, this messenger sling bag has a retro look that’s perfect for festivals, vacations, and those who like to stand out from the crowd.

Big enough to comfortably hold a slim laptop up to 13 inches, this may not be the largest bag on the market, but it is still a funky, practical alternative to a traditional backpack or tote . It also has additional straps so you can carry this bag by either the handle or the adjustable shoulder strap.

There is plenty of space in this medium-sized slingback: you get a zipper pocket in the front flap, 2 side pockets, and a main compartment with further inner pockets. You’ll find enough room to keep your laptop , iPhone, wallet, snacks, drinks, and other essentials all in 1 place.

Available in a variety of colors, this retro sling backpack is an excellent choice.

• Sling strap is adjustable
• Laptop pocket is not padded

• NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag and Urban Travel Backpack

With a ton of compartments to stow your stuff, this sling backpack also comes with an RFID-blocking anti-theft pocket for your most vulnerable valuables. Made of water-resistant polyester canvas and constructed using top-quality zippers and durable straps, this budget backpack offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Ergonomically designed for comfort, the NeatPack bag can be slung over either your shoulder or worn across your chest to keep it safe from thieves. With a convenient front cell phone pocket and separate headphone access, you can easily get to everything you need while on the go. The padded, breathable strap helps keep the bag comfortable and lightweight wherever you are.

Available in a choice of colors, this little bag would work well for school, travel, or even your daily commute. The sling design allows you to keep your hands free to cycle, walk, or run to your next destination.

• Spacious main compartment and lots of pockets
• Zippers can break easily

Hot Tip: For more options, check out these anti-theft travel backpacks .

5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag Shoulder Pack

Get your gear in order with this fully customizable tactical bag made from water-resistant and incredibly lightweight 1050D nylon. The fully-cushioned adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to find your customized fit, and the grenade design makes this a must for anyone with a penchant for military styling.

With a coms pocket at the shoulder, a covert tactical pocket at the rear, and a secondary double zip pocket, this sling pack offers plenty of organized storage areas . An interior stash pocket paired with a hydration pocket and a pass-through port make it easy to stay hydrated , too.

Equipped with the patented 5.11 Tier System to integrate with other 5.11 RUSH tactical bags, plus YKK self-healing zippers and a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, this is a superb backpack perfect for any adventure.

• Has a hydration pocket and a pass-through port
• Can chafe your neck if packed heavy

Solo New York Ludlow Universal Tablet Sling Bag

• Padded compartment protects tablets up to 12.9″” and laptops up to 12″
• Front zippered pocket
• Front zip-down organizer section
• Adjustable shoulder strap

A break from the usual sack-shaped sling bags, the Solo New York Ludlow is designed specifically with tablet and smaller laptops in mind, holding up to 12.9-inch tablets and up to 12-inch laptops in a padded compartment.

The bag also comes with a front zippered pocket and has a front zip-down organizer area. An adjustable shoulder strap ensures it stays safe and where it needs to be as you go about town.

• Specifically designed for tablets and smaller laptops
• The square, loose-fit design really makes it more of a shoulder bag

MOSISO Sling Backpack

Choose from pretty florals or bright solid colors with these youthful sling backpacks that would be great for students, adventurers, and commuters alike. Big enough to carry an iPad Air or a smaller tablet in the large main compartment , this bag looks and feels much more expensive than it actually is.

With a ton of multi-functional storage areas, you can fill up the accessory compartment and pockets with your charging cables, power cords, books, papers, personal items, and snacks, while the mesh bottle holder will keep your liquid refreshment safe.

The shoulder strap can be adjusted to reach between 18 and 36 inches, and you can carry this bag on either shoulder as well as across your chest.

Padded and breathable straps help ease discomfort and eliminate excess moisture, while the water-repellent polyester will keep wet weather at bay. This is a nice-looking sling bag that won’t break the bank.

• Stylish floral designs
• Mesh external pocket is a bit weak

Nicgid Sling Bag Chest Shoulder Backpack

Made from high-quality nylon that resists water and rips, this is a compact carry bag that can be worn across your shoulder to keep your hands free and your load light. This design is perfect for days out, trips abroad, and even on your regular commute .

With multiple storage areas, the large main compartment holds your iPad Mini, e-reader, or notebooks, while the inner pouch will keep your cell phone safe. The front of the bag has 4 zippered pockets that are super convenient for accessing items you need on the go. Your keys, passports, pens, and money will all be within easy reach.

The shoulder strap is padded and can be adjusted, and this bag is available in a variety of colors. We think this pack is sleek and practical.

• Durable and comfortable to wear
• Strap is not reversible to wear on both shoulders

Anti Theft Sling Bag Shoulder Crossbody Backpack

With great-looking, water-resistant oxford fabric, this is a minimalist shoulder bag that is sleek on the outside and spacious on the inside.

In the large main compartment, you can easily carry your iPad, notebooks, documents, wallet, money, cell phone, and other everyday essentials. The 2-way zipper gives easy access to the main compartment, and the built-in USB port allows you to charge easily on the go.

The side and back zip pockets are perfect for keeping your important items within easy reach, and you can rest assured knowing your valuables are safe in the combination locked main compartment. With an adjustable satchel strap, you can let this bag swing as high or as low as you want, and it can be worn on either shoulder.

Breathable, comfortable, and incredibly lightweight, this is a great little sling backpack for any adventure.

• Combination lock on the main compartment
• External pockets are a little small

Travelon AT Classic Sling Bag

With locking compartments and durable construction, this bag is an excellent choice for anyone embarking on extreme adventures . The slash-resistant sling strap can be attached to a post or a chair, and the RFID-blocking card slots will protect you from identity fraud.

Designed with security in mind, this bag also features a stainless-steel mesh lining that prevents would-be criminals from slashing or ripping your pack to get at your valuables. There are also locking compartments to keep your personal belongings safe on the move.

Look great and keep your stuff safe as you travel with one of the most protective sling backpacks on the market. A good buy for anyone heading out into crowds.

• RFID-blocking pockets
• Main compartment zipper is not easily accessible when bag is worn on 1 shoulder

Kawei Knight Large Sling Bag

Bigger is definitely better when it comes to this oversized sling backpack that has enough room for all your essentials (and then some). Made of water-resistant and nylon, this bag can carry everything you need for work or weekend getaways , including a 15-inch laptop, but its triangular design and minimal weight should ensure it doesn’t become too bulky.

The interior includes several pockets, a main compartment with laptop sleeve, and a secure zippered pouch. Its flap has its own compartment, and there are 2 side pockets.

• Enough space for most things you’d need for a day
• Not stylish, and could actually be too big for those looking to keep it light

Mens Vintage PU Leather Sling Bag

Made from premium leather, this is a stylish sling bag with a timeless feel. With waterproof properties and an ergonomic design , it is as comfortable to wear as it is good-looking. And this bag has a hidden secret: its very own charging port for topping up your cell phone battery using your power bank .

Spacious enough to hold your laptop, iPad, tablet, phone, books, and much more, this bag will keep your gear safe and organized. Multiple pockets add extra hiding holes for smaller items, and the main compartment opens wide for easy access.

Fashionable and spacious, this leather bag is perfect for serious travelers and daily commuters alike.

• Has an external USB port and a headphone jack
• Sling strap could be longer

Pacsafe Vibe 325 10 Liter Anti Theft Sling Bag

Brought to you by the travel experts at Pacsafe, this little sling bag is built to last. Offering enough space to keep all your essentials close at hand yet light enough to wear for hours at a time, this is one of the best sling backpacks your money can buy — but it does come at a price.

Made from high-quality nylon with a wipeable polyester lining, the Pacsafe Vibe offers incredible protection against would-be thieves. Individual compartments can be secured with locking zippers, while the fabric of the bag is cut-resistant and features a lightweight steel mesh inlay to keep your gear safe.

The shoulder strap is padded for comfort and reinforced with wire to prevent it from being slashed or cut in crowded places. The strap can also be used to securely fix your bag to tables or chairs to keep your possessions safe from theft.

Sizable, attractive, and one of the most protective bags on the market, this is an excellent choice for anyone traveling overseas.

• Sling strap is reinforced with wire to be slash-proof
• Quite a narrow bag, so not good for bulky items

Sling backpacks are a great alternative to traditional backpacks when you don’t need to carry too much stuff with you. Filling the void somewhere between fashion and practicality, you can carry them on either shoulder to keep your most valued possessions within easy reach at all times.

Cheaper, lighter, and smaller than a regular daypack , a sling bag will have its limitations. But if you want to remain hands-free and can travel a bit lighter, these are a good option for all types of adventures.

If you’re looking for a little more room and deciding on the best travel backpack, check out this great article on the best travel backpacks for men and women .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sling backpacks bad for your back.

As sling backpacks cause 1-sided strain, they can cause back pain if they are too heavy. Sling backpacks should only be used for lightweight essentials and are not designed for carrying heavy loads for long periods. You will be better off with a backpack for these occasions.

What is a sling backpack?

A sling backpack is quite similar to a regular backpack but the major difference is that it only has 1 strap and it is worn crossbody. A lot of sling backpacks tend to be triangular in shape or slimmer. Given they are worn on 1 shoulder only, they also have smaller capacities to avoid shoulder pain.

Are sling backpacks good for hiking?

We wouldn’t recommend a sling backpack for hiking as they don’t provide the same back support and features regular hiking backpacks would. Sling bags are best left for short urban adventures or when you need quick access to your belongings. Stick to regular backpacks for hiking.

What is the best sling bag?

These are some of the best sling bags that we recommend:

• KAVU Rope Bag

Are sling bags good for travel?

Sling bags offer superfast access to your belongings, and the lightweight design makes them easy to carry on long journeys and daily adventures. Some are even large enough to carry your laptop and other items with you, while others are only suitable for essentials.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Home » Gear » sling pack

12 Best Sling Packs of 2024 • (HONEST Rundown)

In this meticulously curated list, you’ll find the  best sling packs that have not only endured my relentless adventures but have also added a dash of convenience and style to them. These packs are more than mere storage; they are your trusty sidekicks, holding your essentials while you’re on the move. With every zip and buckle, they’ve been tested for durability, comfort, and, most importantly, their ability to keep up with the unpredictable nature of travel.

But it’s not just about my experiences. These sling packs have been vetted by fellow nomads, globetrotters, and adventure enthusiasts, all of whom demand the best from their gear. Whether you’re a city slicker in need of a sleek, urban-friendly accessory or a trailblazer looking for a rugged companion, this list has got you covered.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what’s needed. We’ve got the best sling bag for hiking, one for laptops and even a sling for festivals. So we’ve well a truly got you covered here.

Let’s dive right in and check out the best slingpacks on the market…

Quick Answer: Best Sling Packs 2024 Review

• Nomatic Navigator Sling – Best Overall Sling Pack for Travel
• WANDRD Detour Hip Pack – Best Packable Sling
• Patagonia Atom Sling – Runner-Up Best Sling Pack
• Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling  – Best Sling Bag for Ladies
• Mahi Classic Flight Bag – Best Leather Sling Bag
• Red Rock Rover Sling  – Best Sling Bag for Hiking
• Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag  – Best Sling Bag for Laptops
• Kavu Rope Sling – Best Sling Bag for Music Festivals
• Monarc Sling – Most Stylish Sling Pack
• Think Tank Retrospective 30  – Best Camera Sling Bag
• Inateck Sling Pack – Best Sling Pack For Airports

Performance Breakdowns and Top Tips

Review of the 12 best slings packs, how to choose the best sling bag for travel, how and where we tested to find the best sling pack, faq about the best sling pack, final thoughts on the best sling packs.

This epic review of the best sling packs of 2024 provides you with my top picks, a comparison table for easy cross-referencing, advice for first-time buyers, what I like and what I don’t about each sling pack, advantages of sling pack use and much more! Slings make great travel organisers , so choose one that fits your style!

Ready for some top-quality sling bag reviews, Of course you are.

Let’s take a look at my top picks for the  best sling bags in 2024…

Nomatic Navigator Sling

• > 1.3 pounds

WANDRD Detour Sling Pack

• > 6.3 Liters

Patagonia Atom Sling

• > 12 ounces

Pacsafe Vibe 325 ECONYL Sling

• > 1 lb. 6.1 oz.
• > 10 Liters

Mahi Leather Classic Flight Bag

Red Rock Rover Sling

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

• > 1 lb. 15.4 oz.
• > 21 Liters

Kavu Rope Sling

Think Tank Retrospective 30

#1. nomatic navigator sling, best overall sling bag for travel.

• Price  -> $129.99
• Weight -> 1.3 lbs
• Capacity  -> 6 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> Main compartment (with interior pockets) + 2 more pockets

What I like: This durable little beast does everything you’d want a sling pack to do. It aces interior organization while still keeping everything easily accessible and even has an array of nifty features perfect for a traveler on the move.

As well as its main compartment and dedicated back pocket for tablets, there’s a hidden bottle pocket that stows away when not in use. There’s an in-built key leash, card slots on the shoulder strap perfect for transit card access, and the interior cord management even allows you to charge devices between the pockets!

On the build side of things, the Nomatic Navigator Sling is hella sleek and sits comfortably across the torso and back. The breathable back panel stops the ugly back sweats, meanwhile, the strength and water resistance means this sling bag is even suitable for a day hike.

This all-black sling pack will look good in any outfit you pick, however, just for that one extra sexy feature, Nomatic has gone ahead and thrown some reflective visibility bars into the design to keep you safe at night!

We also love it for other uses whilst on the road and we rate it as an awesome beach bag too.

What I don’t like: Mainly, the price. For Nomatic products, you’re always paying a premium, and when stacked up against the other sling bags on this list, the difference shows.

However, as with all things in life, you get what you pay for. And in this case, the extra dollaridoos certainly show their worth for the best sling pack on the market.

Our team loved this super heavy-duty sling bag because it just seemed to tick all the boxes as the perfect sling. Firstly the material of the bag is not only super durable but highly water resistant too giving the team confidence when storing important gear. Another stand-out feature is the internal organisation of the sling, something that made packing and unpacking really easy.

Wanna know more, of course, ya do! We’ve actually written an in-depth post about the Nomatic Navigator Sling for your viewing pleasure!

#2. WANDRD Detour Sling Pack

Best packable sling pack.

What I like : The WANDRD Detour is a PACKABLE sling which folds up into a neat, compact little square when you are not using it. It’s designed to carry DSLR cameras so offers pretty generous storage space. It has a simple, sleek and suave design which makes it great for everyday no-frills use. Use this pack as an airport bag, for hitting the beach or yeah, for carrying your camera.

What I don’t like: First up, if you are going to use this as a camera bag then note that it does not offer much protection in case of knocks and drops. You will therefore need to also invest in the WANDED inflatable camera cube. Personally, I dislike the polyester strap on this pack as it doesn’t feel great against the skin.

To round up this sling bag review we let our testers give it a go and they were really impressed. They just loved how small this sling packed down and loved that they could just throw it into their bag as an extra bit of storage or to use during the day without taking up hardly any room. They also loved how light it was.

#3. Patagonia Atom Sling

Runner-up best sling bag for travel.

• Price  -> $65.00
• Weight -> 12 ounces
• Capacity  -> 8 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 2 Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: The Patagonia Atom Sling is the perfect sling bag to take traveling. Why? I like it because it is simple, durable, and can hold just enough stuff to keep the essentials close at hand. When you need to grab something from your pack, the single-strap design lets you rotate the Atom to the front for quick access.

If you are traveling with a Kindle or Ipad, the large, zippered main pocket has a dedicated, padded tablet sleeve inside for easy, safe storage.

A convenient stretch-mesh pocket on the chest/shoulder strap accommodates a wide variety of phone sizes. You can adjust the fit quickly and easily on the go. Adjustable exterior compression straps help to manage loads of various sizes.

Finally, the strong exterior fabric is finished with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to protect items from light rain. This is a great minimalist sling bag for travel as long as you are indeed a minimalist and not trying to pack heaps of stuff into it (you won’t be able to).  Good job Patagonia!

What I don’t like: When the Patagonia Atom is super full, the balance can feel off. Your neck can end up taking a majority of the weight if you don’t have the back properly adjusted. For carrying heaps of stuff, 8 liters is not much to work with. Some users have complained that it is simply too small to be practical.

Our team loved all the different practical features of this sling including the external pockets and compression straps. They felt the shoulder strap was pretty well-padded and comfortable when properly adjusted and just loved the addition of the small pocket on the strap.

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#4. Pacsafe Vibe 325 ECONYL Sling Pack

Best sling bag for ladies.

• Price  -> $109.95
• Weight -> 1 lb. 6.1 oz. ounces
• Capacity  -> 10 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 3 Exterior Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: The Pacsafe Anti-Theft sling is slightly smaller than the Patagonia Atom Sling listed above, though it still can basically hold the same amount of essential items. The Pacsafe sling is cool because it can be worn 2 different ways—as a sling or as a backpack. This sling pack is very safety conscious, which I like.

The N Lock security hooks which allow you to attach the bag strap to a secure fixture to avoid snatch-and-run theft. Hidden, stainless-steel eXomesh mesh slash guards protect against slash-and-run theft. Zipper pulls attach to discreet hooks, making them tougher for pickpockets to open.

A hidden pocket located on the backside of the bag keeps your most important small items closest to your body. A bonus is the RFID-blocking material located in a special pocket which helps prevent electronic identity theft. Whew!

The Pacsafe Anti-Theft Sling is my top pick for the best sling bag for women for all of the badass safety features listed above. You’ll stay one step ahead of any potential thieves while keeping your most important gear safe.

What I don’t like: Again, the Pacsafe Anti-Theft is quite small. You will have trouble trying to fit anything more than the bare essentials inside. Also, the Pacsafe sling is a little more expensive than some of the other options found in this review.

Our team liked the low profile of this sling especially as it can be worn more in the style of a handbag rather than looking like a traditional sling. The team felt it was a great backpacking option when they wanted something to take travelling that would still look great with a dress but keep their gear safe too.

#5 Mahi Leather Classic Flight Bag

Best leather sling.

• Price -> $115
• Weight -> 1.5 lbs.
• Capacity -> 2 Liters
• Number of Compartments -> 1

What I Like:

The bag is meticulously crafted with a 100% full-grain leather exterior, ensuring durability while sporting a sleek, sophisticated look. The interior is lined with 100% cotton, providing a soft, protective layer for your belongings.

Boasting a 2L capacity, the bag is compact yet spacious enough to hold your daily essentials. The dimensions are W19cm x H22cm x D4cm, providing a streamlined profile. The expandable shoulder strap, ranging from 78cm to 145cm, allows for a custom fit, ensuring the bag rests comfortably against your body.

What I Don’t Like:

Hmm, there really isn’t much to not love. It’s well-sized for an airport bag and fits phones, wallets and papers easily while looking stylish. I suppose it isn’t exactly cheap ($86 for a small bag..) but that’s leather I guess.

Also, I personally prefer a packable sling pack like the Nomatic Navigator.

#6. Red Rock Rover Sling

Best sling bag for hiking.

• Price  -> $39.99
• Weight  -> 3 lbs.
• Capacity  -> 9 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 3

What I Like: Technically, the Red Rock Rover Sling is a concealed carry sling. That means it was intended to stash a gun inside. That said, it is a tough, burly sling pack perfect for short hikes. Finding the best sling bag for hiking isn’t easy because sling packs are inherently not really intended for hiking. The Red Rock Sling is going to be the most comfortable and most practical sling bag for hiking you will find.

The three storage compartments are large enough to pack snacks, water, a light layer, and other essentials. I am a fan of the fact that the internal and external pockets contain admin dividers and organizers and it’s one of the big reasons I picked this as my best hiking sling bag.

For quick access to important items (i.e snacks), the two external compartments make it easy for you. The Red Rover Sling comes in a variety of colors, so don’t worry… you need not get a camouflage sling if that’s not your thing! For the price, you won’t find a better sling bag for hiking!

What I don’t like: As a 9-liter sling bag for hiking, I feel like the Rover sling is far heavier than it should be. There are 50-liter+ hiking backpacks that weigh less! It’s kind of weird too that this is a sling bag intended to hide guns and bullets. Can we all just get along?

Our team felt this was the best sling backpack for hiking because of the proper durable exterior and the ability to bring along heaps of extras with the addition of the accessory and gear loops. They also loved the different pockets on the front of the pack which made keeping things organised easy, they liked that they could throw in an energy bar and have quick access.

#7. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

Best sling bag for laptops.

• Price  -> $99.00
• Weight  -> 1 lb. 15.4 oz.
• Capacity  -> 21 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 3 + Main Compartment

What I like: For a full-size sling bag for laptops and everyday practicality, the Timbuk2 Classic is a badass sling pack. With 21-liters, you can carry everything you need for a day in the city.

The thoughtfully distributed internal pockets balance the weight of your carry, which is hugely important! The fully adjustable shoulder strap features a super comfortable air-mesh strap pad. Digital Nomads rejoice!

A low-profile handle makes the sling bag easy to grab and go. The SR buckles are partially concealed behind the flap for a sleek but secure closure. Crucially, the flap corners fold into place for excellent weatherproofing.

If you are a digital nomad/city dweller looking for the best sling bag for laptops around, look no further than the Timbuk2 Classic. It’s a hell of a sling pack!

What I don’t like: The closure straps are too long. They tend to rub on the legs which can result in chaffing and if nothing else, annoyance. Short of cutting the end off with a knife, there isn’t much to be done about that.

One major flaw is whilst the sling bag itself is rather padded, there is no individual padding for the laptop compartment. Several users of this bag have complained about poor customer service with Timbuk2. That’s an unfortunate reputation to cultivate, as Timbuk2 typically makes awesome products.

Our team just loved the epic volume of this sling and just how much it holds. They also loved the range of different colours and styles it came in, all of which look super cool. If you pick one of the more reserved colourways the team felt the sling was a great commuter pack for those needing to carry a laptop and a few notebooks with them on the daily.

Looking for more bags of this style, check out the best messenger bags on offer too.

#7. Kavu Rope Sling

Best sling bag for music festivals.

• Price  -> $50.00
• Weight  -> 12 ounces
• Capacity  -> N/A – My guess is between 6-8 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 4 Pockets + Main Compartment

What I like: When headed to a heady music festival or party, having a low-key, functional sling bag is awesome for storing your stuff. The Kavu Rope Sling is the perfect sling pack to take to festivals! I appreciate that the design is simple, practical, and functional! There are basically two zip compartments and two small Velcro stash pockets (perfect for keeping your festival drugs safe lol).

What’s cool is that the Kavu Rope Sling is made of cotton canvas which means it can be washed. At a music festival or beach party, your bag ends up all over the place. Washing away dust, grit, and stale beer droplets is very important indeed!

The Kava Rope Sling also makes for a great sling bag for travel if you are not seeking to load it with stuff.

What I don’t like: The bag was intended to be worn on the right shoulder only. If you are right-handed, like I am, you’ll find that the Rope Sling takes some getting used to. Because the bag is made of cotton canvas, it is pretty much at the mercy of the weather. In heavy rain, your stuff will get soaked. Some users have found the shoulder straps to be uncomfortable.

Our team loved that this bag had a proper hippy vibe to it that just worked perfectly for a music festival. Besides its looks, they were super impressed by the extra features on the bag so often missed out on these bohemian numbers. That included the different external pockets, one of which was on the strap, these were great for quick grab items like mints, smokes or loose coins.

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#8.  Think Tank Retrospective 30

Best camera sling bag.

• Price  -> $194.75
• Weight  -> 3.2 lbs
• Capacity  -> 15” W x 9.5” H x 6” D (38 x 24 x 15.2 cm)
• Number of Compartments  -> 4 + Main Compartment

What I like: For the best camera sling bag, the Think Tank Retrospective 30 has you covered. If you are a backpacker traveling with a fancy DSLR camera, you’re going to need adequate protection to comfortably transport your kit. The Retrospective 30 sling pack provides that and more. It is absolutely loaded with storage and organizational features, which is a big win.

For photographers who need a little extra space in their camera bag, the spacious Think Tank Retrospective 30 is the way to go. At 3.2 pounds, the Think Tank Retrospective is quite heavy though relatively light enough to carry over your shoulder. The internal dimensions – 15 x 6 x 9.5″ – are large enough to accommodate a larger camera system, like a Fuji X-Series.

The addition of several pockets ensures that you’ll have enough room for all of your extra accessories as well. Other features, like an included rain cover and silenceable velcro, only add to the usefulness of this camera sling bag.

What I don’t like: I am amazed that the main compartment doesn’t zip! Bummer. The Retrospective 30 is definitely bordering on being too heavy to be a comfortable and practical camera sling bag. For nearly $200, this is the most expensive sling pack on my list. That said, if you own a nice camera, then you are probably used to spending heaps of money on your badass camera gear!

Our team liked the pretty low-key look of this bag and felt it was ideal for when they were carrying around some pretty expensive gear without drawing attention. They loved the amount of space for all their gear in this sling and the fact they could easily access their camera from the top of the pack. Another thing they really appreciated was the organisational pockets on the front which were great for storing filters, memory cards and notebooks.

For even more camera bag ideas, check out our in-depth review of the best camera bags .

You’ve seen my top picks for the best sling bags for travel and other activities above. Here are a few more sling packs which are equally as awesome…

#9. Waterfly Sling Pack

Honorable mention.

• Price  -> $19.99
• Weight  -> N/A
• Number of Compartments  -> 1 + Main Compartment

What I like: For the price, the Waterfly Sling Pack is hard to beat. An investment in one of these sling packs is next to nothing! The Waterfly is marketed as a waterproof sling bag, though I think it is more water resistant. Either way, it does indeed offer decent weather protection.

Its 10-liter inner compartment is perfect for day hikes and urban exploration. The breathable strap is comfortable even after wearing the bag for long periods.

What I don’t like: I have questions about the Waterfly’s long-term durability. But for 20 bucks, you can’t expect the sling pack to last forever I guess. It is kind of annoying how this company claims the Waterfly is both waterproof and water resistant. It is one or the other, it can’t be both! Come on!

Our team loved the low profile of this sling and combined with how cheap it is, they felt it was a great accompaniment for short trips, backpacking and casual days out. They loved that it could be thrown over your shoulder and carried just enough to keep things light and free for the day with no fuss.

#10. Monarc Sling

Most sylish sling pack.

• Price  -> $99.99
• Weight  -> N/A
• Capacity  -> 20 Liters
• Number of Compartments -> 1 main compartment

What I like: The Monarc Sling Bag is a reasonably sized bag for everyday carry. At 10L, it is designed with convenience in mind, suitable for the daily commute to the office or for carrying personal items when traveling by plane. With water-resistant zippers and fabric, you won’t have to worry about the weather; your stuff will always stay dry.

I’ve had a very positive experience with the Monarc Sling Bag. It fits my 15″ laptop perfectly and makes a great bag for my daily commutes to coworking spaces. I love the design and the multiple ways I am able to wear it on my back. With all the compartments, I find my stuff quickly. This bag has quickly become my go-to everyday bag.

What I don’t like : The only downside, in my opinion, was the lack of a user manual on the bag tag. I wish the tag had a clear description of all the functionalities. When I first received the bag, it took me an hour or so to look online and figure out all the functions. Other than that, I really appreciate all the compartments the bag includes. It is really easy to stay organised and it’s become one of my favourite bits of travel gear .

#11. Pacsafe Vibe 325  Crossbody Sling

• Price  -> $69.95
• Weight  -> 1 lb. 3.8 oz.
• Capacity  -> 1o Liters

What I like: Pacsafe has arrived on my best sling bags list again. This time it is for the Pacsafe Vibe 325. As another very safety-conscious sling pack, the Vibe 325 is loaded with cool security features even if it is a minimalist sling pack.

The roobar AT locking system allows you to secure your zippers and helps prevent pickpocket theft. Furthermore, the RFID-safe blocking material built into a pocket in the main compartment helps protect IDs and credit cards from electronic scanning theft. It sucks a big one that we have to worry about this kind of thing nowadays, but it is the reality.

Finally, the hidden eXomesh Slashguard stainless-steel wire mesh embedded into the fabric helps protect against slash-and-run theft. Thieves won’t stand a chance. Bam.

What I don’t like: The Pacsafe 325 does run a bit small so don’t expect to pack anything other than the basic/important essentials. Some users have reported discomfort with the straps and the feel of carrying the pack.

Our team are generally big fans of Pacsafe bags and really love the added security they feel carrying around their valuables inside this sling. They did confirm to us that it felt a little on the small side but they felt it worked perfectly as an accompaniment to their bigger bag for things like their passport, wallet and phone.

#12. Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L

• Price  -> $119.95
• Weight  ->1 lb. 10 oz.
• Capacity  -> 6 Liters

What I like: For another one of the best camera sling bags, I recommend getting to know the Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L. This camera sling bag is indeed small, and minimalist and can only fit one DSLR camera. But, that’s all you need right?

It features easy clamshell access to the main camera-carrying compartment and a front accessory organization pocket. The secondary chest strap provides additional security for when you are traveling in cities.

I have to give the Peak Design Everyday Sling V2 6L big points for its weather-conscious design. The outer fabric is 400-denier shell fabric to help keep your gear dry when the rain clouds roll in, there is no need to panic. It also features a weatherproof zipper.

What I don’t like: For a 6-liter camera sling pack, I find the price ($119.95) to be expensive. For the price, I’d like to see a slightly larger sling bag with more features. If you are traveling with multiple lenses, then this pack is not for you.

Our team were really impressed by this camera sling and felt it was a great alternative to a bulking camera bag. They loved that it included proper camera dividers and it could be swung around for quick access to their gear. The additional transparent pockets on the inner pocket were also great for photographers needing to quickly grab extra batteries or memory cards.

#13. Inateck Sling Pack

Best for air travel.

• Price  -> $27.95
• Capacity  -> 4 Liters
• Number of Compartments  -> 1 Main Compartment

The Inateck Sling Bag is a stylish and functional accessory designed for everyday carry, travel, and outdoor activities. It boasts a compact yet spacious design, measuring 34 x 15 x 8 cm (13.8 x 5.9 x 3.1 inches) with a 4L capacity, making it suitable for carrying essentials such as phones, a Nintendo Switch, or an iPad Mini. The bag is constructed with 900D polyester, featuring YKK zippers and a Duraflex buckle, ensuring durability, water resistance, and a weight of only 0.8 pounds. Its adjustable shoulder strap ranges from 29″ to 48″ in length, accommodating various body sizes and carrying preferences.

The bag features a unique design with angled cuts and a futuristic look, maintaining a low profile while offering an expandable compartment for larger items like water bottles or umbrellas. This compartment includes elastic webbing to secure items in place. Internally, the bag offers an impressive organization system, including a main compartment with pockets for electronics and smaller items, an iPad Mini-sized pocket, elastic bands for pens or cables, and a secure back pocket with card slots for valuables.

Complete Comparison Table

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Now that you have seen my top picks for the best sling packs on the market, there are a few other factors to consider before buying a sling pack.

Every person has different tastes, needs, and expectations for any given sling pack. First, you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions:

• What purpose do I want a sling pack to serve?
• How much do I want to spend on a sling bag?
• What will I be using my slick pack for the most?

After you sort out some of these important questions, you can then base your final decision on whichever sling pack will be the best fit for your own personal travel style.

The best thing about a sling bag? They are almost always Ryanair carry-on bag compatible too!

Finding the Best Sling Bag Size

Finding the best sling bag size for yourself is pretty easy really as most of your options are not wide-ranging in terms of size. The biggest sling pack on my list is the  Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag . At 21 liters, this sling bag is great for storing more than just the basics.

In most cases though, you have just 8 liters or so to work with. You must have realistic expectations regarding your sling pack! They are minimalist backpacks intended to contain small, useful items that you intend to keep close to your person.

I love sling packs for festivals, beach days, and city trips, and as a carry-on bag. They are NOT really best for hiking or as a primary daypack. If you expect to load your sling pack with plenty of shit, then you might want to reconsider getting one, or at least go with the biggest sling pack out there if that’s what you need.

As I said, sling packs and minimalism go hand in hand. You’ll find that traveling with a sling pack is awesome because you are not burdened with a heavy, bulky backpack. All of your items are easy to access, and most of all safe from external threats.

Which Sling Packs Have the Best Features?

Just like every individual backpacker, each sling pack on this list has its own character and personality. Are you a fan of pockets, zippers, and compartments galore? Do you prefer a few pockets and a well-organized main compartment? You’ll need to ask these questions!

The point is, once you determine your personal organizational needs, you should target that kind of sling pack.

I personally find it handy to have a few zip pockets on the exterior. Once you start having 5 or 6 different pocks plus the main compartment, you might find that to be excessive. Even in a small sling pack, you can lose track of where the hell you put stuff!

I like a good balance of simplicity, practical, versatile, and reliable. Above all else, the best sling bag is the most functional sling bag for your own needs.

Having a spot to put your most important items is the goal. That is why I am a big fan of the  Patagonia Atom Sling . It is simple, compact, and very functional, which is all I ask when considering which packs are indeed the best sling bags.

To test these sling packs we sent different members of our team out with each one for a proper test run over a decent period of time.

Packability

A sling pack might be smaller than a backpack but it still needs to be able to pack a decent amount of stuff. So we awarded top points for how packable each one was and how well it optimised the space provided. Extra points were also awarded for how well each pack facilitates effective packing and we tested this out by packing and unpacking. Simple!

Another point we paid particular attention to was how well each was also to unpack. Did the design make it easy to get at your gear or do you turn into Mary Poppins when you need to grab something on the go!?

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

Slings by their nature are usually pretty light and low profile. At the same time being carried on one shoulder means comfort and weight are of optimal importance when it comes to picking the right one.

No one wants their sling digging into their shoulder all day, so those that maximised carry comfort whilst minimising weight were awarded full marks.

Functionality

One of the most important factors, when we were reviewing these packs, was functionality. In other words, how does each sling fulfilled its primary purpose… so in order to test them out when used them for exactly that!

So let’s say a sling is for photographers, then we checked out how well it handled a camera and how well it facilitated photography on the go. If it was for carrying valuables, then we check out how safe the sling felt. You get the gist right!?

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well, those people are fools obviously not TBB testers because here we don’t do things by halves! Nah! Here we expect our gear to not only perform well but to do it whilst looking good too… a bit like us!

Durability and Weatherproofing

If you’re putting expensive gear into your sling, then you want it to be safe from the weather. You also don’t want to be investing in some tat that’s going to be falling apart after a few weeks. So we took built quality and weatherproofing seriously. We inspected the materials used, checked out how the zippers felt in use and had a good look at the pressure points most likely to break.

Next, we gave the weatherproofing a good old test by pouring a pint of water over the slings to see how well they fared!

Still have some questions about the best sling packs? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is a sling pack?

A sling pack is like a mini backpack that is secured across the shoulders and chest with only one strap, just like a sling bag. It sits tight around the body and is a go-to for loads of travellers.

Which sling bag is best?

We absolutely love the Nomatic Navigator Sling . It’s stylish, extremely durable and comfortable to carry thanks to the padded shoulder strap.

Are sling bags bad for your back?

No, sling bags are not bad for your back, unless you’re carrying around tons of weight with it. But since the bags are normally small, the weight has no effect on the body.

How much capacity do sling bags normally have?

Sling bags are relatively small and range from 6-15 liters on average. Some bags have multiple compartments.

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Congratulations, you have made it to the end of my best sling packs review! Well by now you are well of aware of the benefits of choosing an awesome sling bag for travel.

In the end, sling packs are great travel companions. They are compact, minimalist, and very handy little units to take on any backpacking adventure in addition to being extremely practical for everyday use.

Now that you know what to look for when it comes to picking the best sling bag for travel, you are now ready to make the informed choice of which one to go with.

I know that choosing the perfect sling pack can be a challenge, so I am glad you took the initiative to read this epic review!

If you are still having doubts about which sling pack is best, I recommend going for the  Patagonia Atom Sling ; my top pick for the overall best sling bag of the year.

Did you enjoy reading this best sling bags review? Let me know how I did in the comments. Happy travels amigos.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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The best thing about a “concealed carry” is the ability to store seldom needed personal documents separate and protected from daily wear and tear. I don’t need it for its intended use, but still something I look for.

Worth article! I really like your post. Thanks so much for sharing!

5.11 is actually my first sling style backpack. I am left handed and it was easy to convert to a left handed sling. I have carried this bag everywhere for multiple months now and it is still holding up great. It doesn’t hold a ton of stuff inside, but it is perfectly suited for daily general use. The quality is great, with superior stitching forming around the bag, and holding it together tightly.

How can your “Best Sling for Hiking” not have a holder for a water bottle? Actually I don’t think any of them did.

Hey Michael! Yeah, no water bottle holders here. Sling packs are really just for toting in a camera or some snacks. The diagonal design doesn’t allow for a secure exterior pocket. You’ll have to have a hand for your waterbottle if you’re only packing with a sling. Your lightweight, bottle-toting alternative is a fanny pack.

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How To Choose The

Best Sling Bag

The minimalist's guide to selecting a sling bag for travel, everyday carry, and beyond.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Our Picks
• 04. Function
• 05. Aesthetic
• 06. Conclusion

Ready to embrace the sling bag trend? Step one: read this guide.

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The Short Answer: The Best Sling Bags for Travel, EDC, and Beyond

Click for more information about these top picks and why we like them.

• 8.7/10: Aer Day Sling 3
• 8.6/10: Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L
• 8.5/10: TOM BIHN Side Effect
• 8.3/10: Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L (V2)
• 8.3/10: Mission Workshop Spar Sling
• 8.3/10: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack
• 8.3/10: Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
• 8.2/10: Chrome Industries Kadet
• 8.2/10: Patagonia Atom Sling
• 8.2/10: Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
• 8.1/10: EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack 3.5L

How to Choose the Best Sling Bag for Travel and Beyond

The ’90s are back and with them, the slightly edgier, far more hipster cousin of fanny packs—sling bags (and scrunchies, but that’s a guide for another time). Sling bags are, yes, a fashion statement, but also a convenient way to carry the essentials while traveling the world. Think of them as the middle ground between a backpack and your pockets.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through how to choose the best sling bag for your situation, which means diving into all of the different aspects and explaining what works best for a variety of situations. We’re also going to provide some specific sling bag recommendations based on months of testing.

This guide is written and informed by the Pack Hacker team, all of whom are gear fiends, and some of whom have been wearing sling bags since before they were cool (#hipster). Testing and reviewing gear is our bread and butter here at Pack Hacker—our team of world travelers and digital nomads have tested and reviewed hundreds of different types of travel-specific gear at this point. In fact, we have used nearly all of the sling bags mentioned in this guide (and we’ll be getting our hands on those we haven’t very soon).

By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be a sling expert with all the knowledge necessary to find the best sling bag for you—or your mom, your friend, your dog, etc.

Remember, there’s no one sling bag to rule them all, there’s just the best sling bag for you . So we highly suggest reading our complete guide to figure out your best fit (your future favorite one might not have made this list).

Video Overview: 10 Sling Bags | Should You Travel With One?

Feel free to watch this guide overview in video format. We’ll go more in-depth in the written content and keep this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video.

What is a Sling Bag?

This question is not as straightforward as it seems. It’s taken a team of six bona fide gear reviewers analyzing 50+ sling bags and hip packs for over two months to come up with an answer we can all get behind (and there’s still some ambiguity).

Here’s the definition we’ve landed on: A sling bag is (drum roll, please…) a bag that’s designed to be worn comfortably across the chest or back and secured to the body with a cross-shoulder style strap. The buckle tends to be off-center, the straps connect diagonally, and the body of the bag tends to have an oblong shape—we say “tends to” because there are quite a few exceptions, which we’ll get into later.

One small clarification is that while sling bags and messenger bags have a similar thing going on with the single, crossbody style of strap—the two aren’t synonymous. Messenger bags are usually bigger, boxier, and don’t contour to the body, but there’s no exact science. Really, you can go with your gut here. We tend to think you’ll know a messenger bag when you see one.

There is a massive variety of sling bag styles out there, including tactical slings (for outdoor sportsman stuff), high-fashion slings (think Gucci), and backpack slings ( spacious enough for a laptop ). While we’ll touch on those, we’re mainly going to focus on sling bags for travel in this guide.

What’s the Difference Between a Sling Bag and a Hip Pack?

You’ll see people on the internet equating sling bags with hip packs (or waist packs, fanny packs, bum bags, belt bags, whatever you want to call them), but sling bags and hip packs aren’t one and the same. We repeat: sling bags and hip packs are not the same things.

Simply put, a hip pack is the rebranded fanny pack, while a sling bag is something different (it’s the hipster cousin, remember?). A hip pack can almost always be a sling bag, albeit not necessarily a good one, but a sling bag is virtually never a hip pack (like a square is a rectangle, but a rectangle is not a square).

That said, almost every single company out there has its own definition of a sling bag and a hip pack. To make things even more complicated, some companies will throw in the term “crossbody bag” to describe what we consider a sling bag. So, it gets messy—and our rules and definitions are by no means absolutes.

In this guide, we won’t be discussing hip packs. Getting into the nitty-gritty of sling bags is complicated enough.

Why a Sling Bag?

Now that you know what a sling bag is, let’s talk about why one will change your life (or, at the very least, make carrying stuff easier).

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your In-Flight Essentials

Since wearing one backpack on the front and one on the back hasn’t caught on yet (yes, we’re surprised too), a sling bag becomes a great place to keep your pocketable items, especially while in transit. Just toss all of your stuff in your sling and throw the entire thing in a bin as you breeze through airport security like a pro, thus avoiding the much-dreaded “security shuffle.”

And, unlike pockets, a sling bag will fit almost everything you could ever want in-flight (within reason—a masseuse obviously won’t fit). Of course, what you carry in your sling bag is as unique as you are. Here are a few suggestions based on what works for us:

• A smartphone
• Snacks (arguably the most important)
• Tech chargers
• Battery bank
• Earplugs (every plane has at least one crying baby, even if it’s your own; it’s like a law of physics or something)
• Notebook and pen (something about being at 35,000 feet gets the creative juices flowing)
• An e-reader or book (depending on your sling; some are too small to fit one)

Once in flight, you can use a carabiner to hook your sling bag to the seat in front of you. That way, you can quickly grab a snack before you get hangry, some tissues because the movie you picked happens to be a lot sadder than you thought it’d be, or a phone charger because Tetris drains battery life surprisingly quickly. You know, only the essentials.

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your Day Trip Essentials

Similar to the above perk, a sling bag may just be the perfect accessory for a day trip. Sometimes all you need are the basics—wallet, keys, phone—and while pockets may get the job done, 1) some clothes lack practical pockets, 2) skinny jeans are a thing, and 3) some clothes don’t have pockets at all. (*cough* Women’s clothing! *cough*)

Even if you are #blessed with useable pockets, some day trips require a few “extra” items, although not quite enough to make lugging around an entire backpack worthwhile. A sling bag allows you to bring:

• Extra camera lenses
• Extra camera batteries
• Snacks (still the most important)
• Nintendo Switch (a gamer’s gotta game)

Sling bags truly are the middle ground between a daypack and your pockets. If you’re usually a daypack kind of person, switching to a sling bag forces you to think about what you’re bringing. And your back will thank you for leaving that copy of War and Peace behind because, let’s be honest, you’re just going to look at memes on your smartphone anyway. Alternatively, if you’re usually a pocket kind of person, you can avoid overly-full pockets and think less about what you’re bringing, tossing all sorts of fun goodies into your sling bag just because you can.

Sling Bags Are Lightweight and Packable

Sling bags—specifically ones designed for travel—weigh almost nothing and can easily lay flat in your travel backpack . You can pack it and forget about it until you require your sling’s services (see the above perk).

Sling Bags Provide Easy Access

Sling bags are ridiculously easy to get in and out of. When worn on your chest, the pocket(s) is (are) literally right under your nose, and when worn on your back, you can shift it around to your front. However, beware of the T-Rex arms that can happen when the sling bag is worn high on your chest (yeah, you knew exactly what we were talking about as soon as we said “T-Rex arms,” didn’t you?).

Sling Bags Are En Vogue

At least for the time being, sling bags are “in.” You’ll find them in pretty much every high street store, and even luxury brands like Louis Vuitton are selling them. We don’t know about you, but we love it when fashion and convenience merge.

Other Use-Cases for Sling Bags Include:

• Festivals (both for convenience and trendiness)
• Everyday carry (especially for those who cycle to work)
• Hiking and outdoor adventuring
• Exploring cities
• Amusement parks
• A million other things

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One of our favorite slings may just become your favorite sling.

We dig the Aer Day Sling 3 so much that it was one of our first-ever Pack Hacker Picks—an exclusive list of our favorite travel products. You might be thinking, that’s great, but why do you like it? Well, let’s talk about it.

We’ve used this sling all over the globe, from the United States to Thailand and South Korea. The front pocket is a solid place to stow quick-use items like sunglasses and hand sanitizer, and the main compartment works well for the bulk of our gear like a wallet and battery bank. This is a great sling if you’re into organization but still like having the freedom to store large items, as there’s plenty of room leftover for bulky gear like a hat and gloves. In addition to intuitive storage, this pack stands on its own thanks to a flat base and has an easy-to-use magnetic FIDLOCK buckle on the strap.

The primary material is 1680D CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon, which is highly durable, water-resistant, and gives the sling a sleek look that looks good in pretty much any setting. There’s an X-Pac version, too, which is ideal if you’re looking for something more lightweight, though it sounds a bit crunchy in our experience. The zippers are from YKK, and the other hardware is from Duraflex, which are two of the best brands in the business.

Why We Like It

• The flat base enables it to stand up, so it’s easy to load up before leaving home
• The materials and hardware are incredibly durable

What You Should Know

• There’s no organization in the front pocket, so you may need to fish around for what you need
• We’ve had experience with the FIDLOCK buckle coming disengaged while we’re wearing the sling, though it’s not often enough to cause major concerns

If you’re looking for a smaller sling that you can take anywhere, the Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L might be the best sling bag for your next trip. It has Bellroy’s signature look: durable materials, capable hardware, and a thin strap that you’ll either love or wish had more padding. We think it’s enough because the sling’s size is pretty proportional to the strap, but it’s worth considering if you prefer extra cushion.

The primary material here is Bellroy’s Canva Ripstop, which feels a little rough in the hand but offers high durability and excellent water resistance. That’s paired with YKK AquaGuard zippers, which ensure no water sneaks through the openings in the pack. To top it all off, the self-compression design helps create a natural sleek look no matter how packed out the sling is, which we dig.

Inside, we’ve got two compartments to work with. The secondary pocket has a divider in the center, making it easy to segment small gear rather than it getting jumbled together. As for the main compartment, it’s a simple design with just enough organization to keep your items in check, including a structured slip pocket for your phone and a raised zippered pocket to keep your sunglasses from getting crushed. The 2.5L capacity is the perfect amount to stow all the gear you’d typically keep in your pockets (plus a little extra) to ensure your day is comfortable, whether walking to get Gelato or hiking up a mountain.

Bellroy has multiple Venture slings in multiple sizes, though they have a slightly different design to this one from the Venture Ready line, which is designed to handle more rugged adventures. That said, we like those other slings, too, so you’ve got plenty of size options if this 2.5L sling is a bit too small.

• The self-compression strap ensures a comfortable fit, no matter how packed out the sling is
• There’s a divider in the front pocket which helps organize small gear
• We’ve experienced the magnetic buckle coming disengaged when pushed at a specific angle
• Though they’re not uncomfortable, the materials are a bit more rugged than we often see in slings

If you’re into versatility, now’s your time to shine. This sling bag is more of a 4-in-1 all-purpose pouch that can be carried as a sling, as a waist pack, with a handle loop, or attached to a key ring (which can then be hooked to a bag or your belt). Or, remove the strap entirely and use it as a 3D organizer in your luggage, as it’s just the right size for toiletries, tech, jewelry, and the like.

That said, this is a guide to help you find the best sling bag for your next trip, so we’ll focus on that. The front pocket is simple and works well for stowing a passport or other quick-use items. Meanwhile, the main compartment has two liner pockets, which are perfect for your wallet, phone, or headphones. Plus, in trademark TOM BIHN fashion, there are four O-rings throughout the bag. These are handy for attaching additional pouches to hold smaller gear you don’t want to lose in the depths of the main compartment, like ChapStick or dongles.

In typical TOM BIHN fashion, there are tons of material and colorway choices available. They’re constantly adding and switching out specifics, so we won’t dive into them. Since TOM BIHN is a leader in durable, well-engineered gear, you really can’t go wrong with any of the options. Simply put, they make gear to last through the materials they utilize, the designs they employ, and the hardware that brings it all together.

TOM BIHN’s style may feel as if it’s stuck in the 1990s, but we’re all in for a hint of nostalgia and their gear’s durability, combining to make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

• The materials, hardware, and design are durable and timeless, so you’ll have this sling for years without it going out of style
• You can customize the interior using O-rings to attach extra pouches
• The design can feel more like a handbag than a sling
• The strap gets twisted fairly easily

As the name describes, the second iteration of the Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L is meant to be used as a daily driver, whether you’re commuting to work or crossing the globe. Before we dive too far into this particular model, it’s worth noting that there are 6L and 10L versions of this bag, too, so you can size up if you feel that three liters is too limiting.

The exterior is crafted from 100% recycled 400D double poly-coated and DWR-impregnated nylon canvas, which is a fancy way of saying that it’s highly durable and water-resistant. The zippers were created in a partnership between Peak Design and Zoom, meaning they were designed to be used exclusively on Peak Design packs, so it’s no surprise that they work so well.

There’s an exterior pocket with no organization, which is a stellar spot to stow camera accessories if you’re using this as a photography bag or pocketable items like a phone or wallet. The main compartment was designed to be versatile, offering storage for a mirrorless camera and two small lenses (or one larger one), but you can utilize it for your everyday carry gear, too. There’s a quick-grab pocket that has organization for smaller gear, like chargers or adapters.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking for a bag to take on your next trip or looking for something to commute across the city with to get to work, this is one of the best sling bag models on the market regarding durability, weather resistance, and versatility.

• The exterior is designed to protect your gear from the elements—an essential feature of a camera-focused bag
• It can be used to stow camera gear or everyday carry equipment
• We’ve noticed that the back panel won’t sit flat against your body when the bag is completely full, which impacts carry comfort
• Oblong-shaped items stored in the front compartment can make it look bulky

The Mission Workshop Spar Sling is one of the larger packs on this list, coming in at eight liters. In fact, it’s so large that it can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, too. Are you interested yet? We thought you might be.

The exterior is crafted from Dimension Polyant VX-07 Diamond Ripstop or 500D Multicam® CORDURA®, depending on your chosen colorway. Both are durable, highly water resistant, and give the pack a sleek look. It’s heavier than other slings of this size that we’ve tested, but the strap does a great job balancing the weight.

There’s only a little organization present here; however, for a sling of this style, we prefer it like that. Eight liters is a lot for a sling, but considering it can carry your laptop, there’s probably a lot of gear you want to bring alongside your computer. If there was a ton of segmentation, your gear might be more organized, but you wouldn’t be able to fit as much inside because you’d be confined to the size of the included pockets. With this sling, you can fit your computer, charger, and other everyday carry and tech items inside for trips to the coffee shop, office, or back home after a long day of exploring—maybe just store small gear in a couple of pouches to keep it from getting jumbled together.

Plus, you can wear the Mission Workshop Spar Sling in sling, crossbody, or messenger modes, so you can switch things up if one way becomes uncomfortable. Considering its size and versatility, this might be the best sling bag for your next trip. Or, one bag it, and see what you can’t live without!

• You can fit up to a 15″ laptop inside
• There are three carry methods to meet your specific travel needs
• It’s heavy compared to slings of a similar size we’ve tested
• There isn’t a ton of organization, so you’ll need to DIY it with pouches and cubes

You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for a lightweight mini sling. The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack has just a liter of capacity; however, its 3.5-ounce weight makes it a versatile travel companion. It’s crafted from ripstop nylon, which is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

The front pocket is just big enough to stow a pair of headphones, a small charging cable, or a pack of gum. You’ll find more organization in the main compartment for large gear, and there’s a zippered pocket items you want to keep separate. There isn’t much segmentation here, which we’re not mad about, because too much organization would take up valuable space in this tiny sling. Since it’s so small, you can pack it into your carry on luggage or travel backpack and take it out once you arrive at your destination to carry around the city.

To assist in that plight, the Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack packs into its own pocket, fitting into the palm of your hand once zipped up. This makes it easier to bring it on a trip if you don’t know whether you’ll need it or not. No matter where you’re going, who doesn’t need a little extra space?

• It packs into itself to save space in your travel bag, which is handy if you’re not a frequent sling user on trips
• The ripstop design adds durability to the lightweight material, so you don’t sacrifice weight for reliability
• The look is somewhat sporty, so it’s difficult to dress up with an outfit
• It can be challenging to fit gear into the small pocket

The Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket may look large upon initial inspection, but it comes in at a singular liter because of how thin it is. The primary external materials are 800D nylon and 660D polypropylene DYECOSHELL, which is a sustainably sourced, durable material that gives the sling a speckled look. It’s durable as heck, too, which we’re here for. After nine months of use, we’ve noticed some slight fraying on the edges of the fabric, but it isn’t compromising the sling—it’s more of an aesthetic issue.

There’s ample organization inside the main compartment considering this sling’s capacity, which makes stowing and finding your wallet, phone, or tiny tech (think headphones or charger) easy. For this reason, we love taking this sling onto a flight as a personal item. It won’t weigh you down or cause discomfort, but you can still stow and find all of the gear you need pretty quickly. Because it’s so tiny, the carry can sometimes feel lopsided if you have something heavy on one side of the sling. That said, as you get used to carrying this thing, you can remedy that issue by finding where your gear best rests to offset weight distribution.

• The organization is thoughtful and doesn’t get in the way, which is a rarity for such a tiny sling
• The materials and hardware are durable despite some cosmetic damage over the course of our testing
• Heavier items can create an unbalanced carry experience
• The edges of the fabric will start to fray over time

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a cross between a messenger bag and a sling bag, which means that it has features from both that make it a candidate for the best sling bag. At nine liters, there’s a ton of space to work with. However, that also means it has a pretty big footprint, which may be challenging for those with small frames to get used to. It’s 17 inches on the long edge, which is as tall as some capable daypacks we’ve tested.

The exterior is clad with 1050D nylon and YKK zippers, which have held up well in our testing. The buckle is Chrome Industries’ trademark seat belt style, which offers a unique heritage style along with a durable, reliable closure.

The secondary compartment has no organization but is fairly large, so you can stow daily items you might want quick access to here. Think sunglasses, a phone, a wallet, or a transit card. You won’t find much more organization inside the main compartment. There’s a divider pocket for a tablet or book and a few smaller iterations that work well for everyday carry gear like a bike tool or flashlight. The rest of the space is yours to work with, meaning there’s enough room for a packable rain jacket, tech pouch, or other large gear.

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a solid bet if you’re okay with heavier materials and minimal organization. Seriously, this thing is durable, and you can fit a ton of gear inside. This might be the best sling bag for rugged adventures or those with a tough commute.

• The materials are durable, and the hardware is unique (especially if you like seat belt buckles!)
• The main compartment has a ton of space for stowing large items that won’t fit in most sling bags
• It’s very long, so it may feel too large on smaller-framed travelers
• The lack of organization can be overwhelming for those who are used to every piece of gear having a home

If you were around in the early 2000s, you might remember a fad where kids were wearing sling-style backpacks to school. Many popular brands made them, and you were only cool if you had one. If you couldn’t get one back then, there’s still time! Enter the Patagonia Atom Sling.

This thing offers a hint of nostalgia paired with Patagonia’s commitment to making durable gear with a purpose. The high-tenacity nylon is partially recycled and perfect for more rugged trips. On the other side, the shoulder strap and back panel are amply padded and aerated to promote comfort, whether crossing the city or taking a strenuous day hike. For gear that won’t fit inside, there’s a compression system on the pack’s front where you can attach items like a rain jacket or small tripod.

The quick-grab pocket is perfect for snacks, your phone, or your wallet. Inside the main compartment is a tablet sleeve and ample open space to stow whatever else you need for the day, from a tech pouch to a bag of chips.

The shoulder strap can only be worn on your right shoulder, which you might remember if you had one of these in middle school. Similar to the weight of textbooks, travel gear can get heavy, which can cause discomfort during long days of wandering around a new place. You can always wear it on your front side to relieve any stress your right shoulder might be experiencing, but we think that looks goofy. To each their own, though.

• There’s ample padding on the back panel and shoulder strap to increase carry comfort
• The simple organization because it’s still effective in keeping your gear organized
• You can only wear it over your right shoulder, so lefties may want to look elsewhere
• It has a sporty look that’s hard to make look, well, not sporty

The Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag is a unique sling bag for several reasons. First, it’s named after a fruit. We feel healthier just thinking about it! Next, it’s crafted from waxed canvas, which isn’t something we see super often. Last, it’s handcrafted in Scotland, which is the conversation starter you never knew you needed!

The waxed canvas looks sleek and is super durable, though it tends to stay wet once it gets wet, so it isn’t the best choice for climates that see a lot of rain. You can wear it as a crossbody bag or a hip pack, which is ideal for travel because it’s more versatile. The strap doesn’t offer padding or aeration, which is something to consider if you prefer a plush carry experience.

There’s just a small zippered pocket on the back and one large compartment, and you’re pretty much left to your devices when it comes to organization. The space isn’t the easiest to utilize, as the tapered design creates harsh corners where it’s hard to fit gear. That said, once you get the hang of using the shape, the carry is comfortable enough to outweigh not having dedicated internal organization, we think. The look, materials, and unique features make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

• The waxed canvas exterior gives it a unique heritage look
• It’s made very well—you’re paying for longevity with this sling
• Its banana shape takes some getting used to when it comes to figuring out where to store your gear
• The materials take a while to dry after getting soaking wet, so avoid carrying this thing in heavy rain

Here at Pack Hacker, we find that a middle-sized sling is typically best for travel because it’s small enough to be packed into another bag and large enough to carry more than what you’d typically keep in your pockets. Inside this happy middle ground at 3.5 liters is the EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack, or MHP3.5. It’s a comfortable size to hold all your everyday carry gear without feeling bulky on your body.

If you’ve been looking for a comfortable sling, you’re going to want to listen up. The back panel is amply padded for carry comfort whether it’s in sling or waist pack mode, there’s plenty of material to create a strong attachment between the pack and the carry strap, and it’s easy to adjust on the fly to find the right fit.

There’s a pass-through channel on the pack’s front that works well for a water bottle, jacket, or other medium-sized item. The secondary (rear) pocket has a vertical-style organizer with multiple pockets to ensure all your gear has a home. Moving into the main compartment, there’s ample space for a packable jacket, small water bottle, tech pouch, or other medium-to-large-sized items. For a sling bag that only touts 3.5 liters, you can fit a ton of gear inside, making it a versatile travel companion, no matter where your journey takes you!

• The beefy harness system creates a comfortable carry in crossbody and hip pack modes
• There’s a ton of room for storing large and small gear without throwing them all into the main compartment
• It’s looks pretty big on your body considering for its liter size compared to other slings we’ve tested
• Though it’s designed to be a hip pack, it works great as a sling

Don’t let a broken sling bag break your heart. Choose one that will keep up.

Finding a Dependable Sling Bag for Travel and EDC

We’re partial to small slings since they are, point blank, the best for travel. Small slings are more comfortable to carry, easier to pack inside a larger travel backpack, and will be considered a personal item on most airlines (in the States, anyway). At some size, a sling bag just becomes an uncomfortable backpack.

While a sling’s size is measured in liters, the liter size of a sling bag can vary from company to company. One brand’s 5 liters is another brand’s 2 liters (exasperating, right? Get it together, people!). So it’s equally important to consider the shape of the sling bag, the internal organization, and the thickness of the material—all of which will impact the amount of usable space available. Let’s break that down.

Volume & Size

We know we just said judging a sling bag by liters isn’t the most accurate way to determine volume, but it still works well as a benchmark. We recommend staying between one and eight liters and keeping the weight less than four, maybe five, pounds—this weight includes your stuff, of course. Since a sling bag wears over one shoulder, a big, heavy sling may, at best, get too uncomfortable to carry, and at worst, hurt your back. Plus, it’ll look awfully strange sitting across the chest.

Some sling bags are expandable, which is excellent for travel since they’ll take up little space when not in use or when you don’t have much to carry—but you can still fill them with a decent amount of stuff when expanded. This trick works well on small sling bags but can be overkill on bigger ones, which expand to be comically bulky.

With an expandable main compartment, the CODEOFBELL X-Pod works equally well on days when you only need the essentials and on trips where you want everything but the kitchen sink. Plus, it never looks too bulky and manages to stay comfortable even when fully packed—an impressive feat we don’t often see.

The profile of a sling bag has a significant impact on its overall look and comfort level. Most sling bags have an oblong shape to better fit the chest and back. As we mentioned earlier, sometimes hip packs try to be sling bags—some are even successful at it—but they won’t be nearly as contoured to the chest and can hang in such a way as to look unbalanced.

With sling bags, you’ll usually find one of two orientations: tall or wide. They’re both equally great options that work better or worse for different use-cases and style preferences.

Tall sling bags are just that—tall—and wear more like a purse or mini-backpack. As you would expect, they work well for things that you want to pack vertically, say a phone case with bunny ears. Tall sling bags aren’t usually tight against the body, nor can they only be worn on your back.

This sling bag can be carried crossbody or as a hip pack with the same strap. Whichever you choose, the horseshoe zipper makes it easy to get to your gear, and the vertical orientation allows you to get a decent look inside the bag and squeeze in your hand without too much trouble.

If you want to look like you don’t know how to wear a fanny pack correctly, then a wide sling may be your style of choice. That’s to say, they are more closely related to the fanny pack in the looks department, for better or worse, and usually sit tightly against the body.

Chrome Industries prides itself on its unique, recognizable designs. And this sling bag is definitely unique. Its oblong shape is reminiscent of the typical fanny pack, but its larger size, seat belt buckle, and stiff shape are all its own. It can overwhelm smaller frames—particularly when full—but it’ll hold all of the essentials and then some.

Weather Resistance

You’ll likely carry important gear in your sling bag such as your cell phone, money, and passport. Unless you’ve got special powers that allow you to avoid rain and snow indefinitely, a bit of weather resistance is a major plus, as it will protect those essential items from damage. Plus, a weather-resistant sling can be wiped down quickly, meaning you won’t have to wear a sopping wet bag against your chest—not a fun experience.

On the other hand, too much weatherproofing is overkill. Full-blown waterproof or super weather-resistant materials are built for just that—resisting water. Generally speaking, they’re not going to hold up to everyday use as well as other fabrics (more on that below), and they may not look as nice or feel as comfortable on your back/chest.

If push comes to shove and you need to protect your sling from a sudden rainstorm, they’re usually small enough to fit under a rain jacket. Just beware—people may think you are either smuggling a small animal under your coat or have a bizarrely shaped chest. (This could be a pro or con depending on your personality.)

A sling bag designed to carry your essential tech—small laptops included—better have some weather resistance. The ALPAKA Bravo Sling Max V2 doesn’t disappoint, with high-quality, durable fabric and weather-resistant zippers.

Sling Bag Durability & Quality

With the popularity of sling bags on an exponential rise, you’ll find sling bags ranging from ten bucks to thousands. While we don’t recommend going out and buying a sling bag that costs as much as a car (unless you have money to burn), we do recommend purchasing a sling made of durable, high-quality materials—and that may cost you more than ten bucks.

That said, the same fabric that’s ideal for a travel backpack can be a bit much on a sling bag. You have to balance durability with weight and interior capacity. When you’re looking at quality, be sure to pay attention to:

A broken zipper may lead to a broken heart while traveling. That may sound dramatic, but if you’ve ever had a zipper break on you while abroad, you’ll know exactly what we mean. We usually trust zippers from YKK, RiRi, and SAB—all of which have solid track records for making quality products, our favorite being the Japanese manufacturer, YKK. YKK zippers have rarely let us down, even when we’ve put them through the wringer over years and years of testing. They account for about half of all the zippers in the world for a reason.

Beyond the brand, it’s important to consider size, which is measured on a scale of one (small) to ten (large). While the main zippers on sling bags fall all over this spectrum, the most common sizes are #5 or #8—seriously, out of the 50 + slings we’ve tested, a very, very high majority have either #5 or #8 zippers. Anything less than a five and you’ll likely run into durability issues.

With sling bags, you also don’t need—or want—anything too beefy, like a #10 zipper. If they’re too big, the zips can jingle, which gets annoying for us around the five-minute mark. Maybe you’re more patient than we are. Larger zippers can also rub against your chest or back, which is just as uncomfortable as it sounds.

Some companies purposefully design their sling bags with oversized zippers or zipper teeth to look extra dope. If you’re into this aesthetic, you may have to get used to the jingling. Fashion is pain and all that.

For the zippers on internal or less-frequented pockets, you’ll be okay with a smaller size. They can also help with the aforementioned weather resistance. When looking at zippers, you may see the letters RC stamped next to the size (#5RC, #8RC, etc.). RC stands for reverse coil, a term that describes zippers with internally—rather than externally—facing teeth, which helps prevent water from percolating into the bag. But a reverse coil zipper isn’t that water-resistant. So don’t go thinking it’ll protect your phone in a monsoon.

For further protection, there are water-repellent zippers—like the YKK AquaGuard zipper—which have a thin polyurethane coating to, you know, repel water. If you’re planning on going to an unusually wet area with your sling bag, then you may want to look for this style of zipper. Otherwise, you’ll likely be fine without that extra water resistance.

Buckles are a major component of most sling bags, and if there’s no buckle, there will be some sort of clip. You don’t want the hardware to break on you because that’ll make the sling practically useless. Unless you MacGyver up a big knot, which will help with the usefulness but, let’s be real, look totally ridiculous.

Again, the brand matters here. Some trustworthy companies are Duraflex, YKK, Woojin, and ITW. As long as you stick with them, you should be good to go. We also love metal buckles—as opposed to plastic—but when it comes to slings, they can be uncomfortable and add a good bit of weight. If durability is a priority however, metal buckles can’t be beaten.

Fabric & Material

Unlike in the 1800s—or even the mid-1900s—bag designers (engineers?) have a ton of fabrics to choose from to make their bags, all of which have pros and cons. As we’ve already mentioned, you want to balance durability with weight and capacity. A sling bag won’t have to do as much work as a travel backpack; therefore, it doesn’t have to be as tough. Some materials you may run into are:

Ballistic Nylon

Ripstop Nylon

CORDURA® Grade Fabrics (Nylon & Polyester)

While this isn’t a comprehensive list of all of the fabrics you’ll run into while shopping (sorry sailcloth and polypropylene) a majority of sling bags will be made with one or multiple of the materials mentioned above. But the material itself isn’t the be-all, end-all.

Usually, you’ll see a number followed by a D associated with the material—250D, 950D, 1000D, etc. The D stands for denier, which is the unit that measures the weight or thickness of fabric. In general, the higher the number, the more durable the fabric—but higher numbers also mean higher weight.

Because every fabric has its individual strengths (nylon is inherently stronger than polyester) the denier won’t help you much when comparing two different types of fabrics, or even two types of weaves within one fabric family. Instead, it helps you compare two fabrics of the same type. 500D Ballistic nylon is less durable than 1000D Ballistic nylon, for example. But the 500D Ballistic nylon will also be much lighter (about half as light, in fact!).

When it comes to sling bags, higher denier is generally better, but you start maxing out around 500D. As far as we’re concerned, any fabric over 500D is a bit overkill for a sling bag. As you get up into the 500D range, the weight of the fabric will start to become more substantial, but because sling bags are small—and thus don’t have a lot of fabric—you’ll hardly be able to notice this difference in weight. And because sling bags don’t take as much abuse as, say, a full-blown travel backpack, we don’t think the extra durability of 500D+ fabrics is necessary.

Moreover, the other aspects of a sling bag, including its zippers and hardware, also have to be high-quality. It does you no good if your ballistic nylon exterior has held up if your zippers break on week three. Best to keep everything well-rounded.

Bordering on too durable, the Aer City Sling 2 is made of some tough stuff—1680D CORDURA® Ballistic nylon, to be precise. If you’re looking for a sling bag that will keep up while you roam the world, this one should be on your radar.

Where Fashion Meets Convenience.

Choosing the Best Sling Bag for Your Use-Case

Besides keeping you trendy, sling bags are awesome because they’re convenient. That convenience becomes obsolete if it’s uncomfortable, hard to access, or doesn’t properly fit your use-case. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re considering investing in your soon-to-be favorite new accessory.

Sling bag straps are generally made of nylon webbing, but all vary in length and width. Smaller sling bags tend to have thin straps, while heavier backpack-style slings tend to have thick straps. Pretty straightforward so far. But length and width aren’t the only elements you need to pay attention to.

First of all, let’s talk about padding. Some sling bags have zero padding, while others are nearly as padded as the resume of a recent college grad. Padded straps are usually—but not always—found on bigger sling bags to help make carrying that much weight more comfortable.

As a general rule, we’re not too keen on thick, padded straps. They tend to give you awkward sweaty patches and can only help so much with comfort. As we already mentioned, once you reach a certain size of sling bag they become uncomfortable to carry regardless of how fancy the strap. Not to mention, bigger straps weigh more.

We’re fans of thinner straps or ones that are somewhere in the middle of the padding spectrum. We’re especially happy when straps are designed in such a way that they’re thicker or more padded only on those places where it’ll touch your body. That way, the sling isn’t bogged down by over-specced straps as far as design and weight are concerned.

The Osprey Daylite Sling knows that it’s a sling bag—meaning the strap has enough padding to make the carry comfortable, but nothing overboard. The padding is soft and kind to clothing, though it can get sweaty on long excursions. There’s also a small mesh pocket on the strap for items you want to access quickly and a nylon loop for attaching water bottles.

Additionally, some sling bags have detachable straps, allowing you to transform the bag into an organizer pouch for toiletries, electronics, your sticker collection, or whatever else you need to organize. We’re always fans of traveling with items that serve more than one purpose to save space and weight. A pouch/sling bag combo is one great way to do that, and detachable straps are virtually identical to non-detachable straps—so there aren’t really any downsides. These are particularly great for one bag travel, as you can use the pouch as a packing cube/organizer in your larger backpack and then take it out and throw a strap on for your flight or a day out.

Because the straps of this sling easily detach, it doubles as a pouch. Throw in some toiletries or tech and leave it in your travel backpack. Then, when you arrive and it’s time to explore a new city, reattach the straps and use it for all your everyday carry essentials. It’s a win-win-win.

Types of Sling Straps

The straps on sling bags have a major influence on the style of the bag. It would be like if the only difference between a backpack and a duffel is the strap. So, let’s check out the various strap styles you’re likely to run into.

The Traditional Strap

The Traditional Strap Example

You’ll likely see traditional sling bag straps when you hit the trails. Major outdoor brands like Patagonia and Osprey sell these kinds of slings, which have a single, thick strap that looks like one you’d find on a backpack, but sits on one shoulder and lies asymmetrically across the chest.

A sling bag with a traditional style of strap is designed to be worn across your back and can’t be worn on your chest or hips. Unfortunately, most of these straps are designed to be worn across the same shoulder every time. That means the carry can become uncomfortable on long excursions, dumping all the weight of the bag onto one side. But they’re nice for quick jaunts since the strap stays in place—even as you bounce along a trail.

The Kavu Rope Sling has an outdoorsy look and a handful of organization for ultimate comfort on the trails. Keep bigger gear close at hand, though it does take a little practice to get the packing strategy right.

The New Wave Strap

The New Wave Strap Example

New wave sling bag straps are usually simple, thin, and attach to the body of the sling bag at the edges width-wise (new wave straps go hand-in-hand with wide sling bags). And they’re designed to be worn both on the chest or back. We’ve coined them “new wave” because these straps are the ones that catapulted sling bags into being a mainstream fashion accessory. They’re truly the “new wave” of sling bags (aren’t we clever?).

The way the straps are anchored to the bag and the way the buckles buckle make it so most new wave straps can’t be worn comfortably on the hips. Sure, with some combination of magic, innovation, and true grit, you could probably force a few of them to sit on your hips, but that’s not what they’ve been engineered to do.

The Tortuga Travel Sling looks like it’s more versatile than it is. While it looks like you could sling it around your hips, the straps are anchored in such a way that it can only be worn successfully on the chest or back. Even without the ability to wear the sling as a hip pack, it’s one of the best slings for travel due to its small size, internal organization, and low weight.

The Hip Pack-Style Strap

The Hip Pack-Style Strap Example

Listen up—because this part is kind of tricky. At first glance, the hip pack-style strap will look eerily similar to the new wave style of strap. The main difference is that the hip pack style of strap can be worn slung around the hips (as well as across the chest). They’re the most versatile in terms of function, but they also scream “fanny pack.” So much so, your dad may ask you why you busted out his old fanny pack and are now wearing it incorrectly. (Obviously, he just doesn’t understand fashion.)

Small and lightweight, lululemon advertises the Everywhere Belt Bag as a fanny pack, but we think it makes a comfortable sling bag too. Mainly because the strap is wider than it needs to be and the buckle is off-center to make it easier to reach. Whichever way you wear it, the bag also has some mesh pockets and a rear security pocket, making it ideal for festivals and travel alike.

The Crossbody Strap

The Crossbody Strap Example

This style of strap is a long piece of webbing that can sit crossbody or be thrown over one shoulder. It’s similar to a purse strap, although usually thinner and without any decorative elements.

The Fjallraven Greenland Pocket has a thin crossbody strap that’s super simple to tighten or loosen—so you can wear it close to your chest or let it hang, depending on where you’re traveling and your mood. But the strap is rough and may damage more delicate items of clothing.

The Lefty Strap

The Lefty Strap Example

Lefties make up only 10% of the population and thus can be ignored by companies who’d rather reach the majority of consumers (sorry, lefties. The truth hurts).

Sometimes, we’ve found that it’s easier to adapt to the right-handed world and use sling bags designed for right-handers. That said, there are a few sling bags that may work better for those of you who are aware that left-handed scissors exist.

These lefty-inclusive sling bags have straps that can be anchored on either side of the bag, allowing you to wear it across whichever shoulder you’d like. That way, if you’re left-handed, you can wear it on your left shoulder, so when you “sling” the bag forward, your left hand is ready to work the zippers.

But, these straps don’t always mean a sling is ideal for lefties. Pocket orientation matters, too. It won’t do you any good to wear the sling on your left shoulder if all the pockets will be facing the ground. There are some sling bags out there with either symmetrical pockets or pockets for lefties.

Thoughts on Buckles

We’ve talked about buckles before, but they’re worth mentioning a second time. They contribute to the look, feel, function, and style of a sling bag nearly as much as the straps do.

The first question worth asking is, “Where is the buckle located?”

If the buckle is centered, that means the sling bag can almost always be worn on either shoulder or around the hips. But a centered buckle isn’t ideal if you’re planning on wearing your sling bag with a backpack. The backpack’s weight can cause the sling’s buckle to dig into your back (ouch), and you won’t be able to easily detach it without first taking off your backpack.

If the buckle is off-center (usually on the right side), the sling bag works best on one shoulder. Meaning you won’t be able to switch between the two if one ever gets tired. In some cases, you can technically wear it on whatever shoulder you want, but it will likely sit uncomfortably on one side, or the buckle will end up in an awkward place that’s hard to access with your dominant hand (sorry lefties, this one will impact you more often).

You should also pay attention to the size of the buckle. The larger it gets, the more uncomfortable it’ll wear. But that’s not always a dealbreaker. Larger buckles can look pretty damn fly, they’ll last longer, and they’re usually easier to clip/unclip for people who can’t be bothered with slow buckles.

Finally, you’ll want to ask yourself if you plan to wear your sling bag as a hip pack every once and a while. Some buckles don’t allow for this dual functionality.

The stainless steel buckles on the Trakke Largo Sling could be considered slightly over-specced for a bag this small, but we’re not complaining. These buckles are ultra-durable, they allow you to wear the sling bag comfortably as a hip pack, and they let you wear it over either shoulder (lefties, that one’s for you!). Plus, it’s a fresh look that helps give this sling its heritage vibe.

Thoughts on Back Panels

Whether or not you should care about the back panel on a sling bag depends on how it fits your body. Boxier sling bags wear more like a purse or messenger bag, so you won’t want or need anything fancy. You can run into trouble, however, with sling bags that hug the body. These can leave awkward sweat patches and rub against your clothing, causing pilling.

To help alleviate those issues, some sling bags come equipped with mesh back panels, most commonly found on outdoor-oriented or backpack-style sling bags.

Some sling bags don’t have that fancy mesh but do have a bit of cushioning or padding for added comfort. Usually, the padding makes for a more comfortable carry but can exacerbate the sweat problem.

And some sling bags, especially the smaller ones, have neither mesh nor padding. We’re alright with that—as long as the bag is truly on the smaller end.

Typical for Hydro Flask, the Slingback Bottle Pack has been designed to shine in the great outdoors. You’ll find soft, padded, and breathable mesh on both the back panel and shoulder strap. If you’re anything like us, you’ll still get sweaty on your way to the peak, but it has better airflow than many slings out there (especially for its size).

Thoughts on Organization

In our years of testing gear, we’ve come to realize that organization is one of those things that’s very personal. Some people like bags with large, empty compartments while others are offended when there’s not a spot for each one of their fancy pens.

You can find sling bags all along that spectrum. Some are basically exterior pockets with zero organization, while others have pockets on pockets on pockets. Again, what’s best for you depends on your use-case and what you’re going to be carrying.

Lots of smaller items? You’ll probably want those organized. A few bigger things? Too much organization could annoy you. For most people, you’ll want something in the middle. We love a main compartment with two to three interior pockets and an additional front or back pocket. But, again, think through your situation.

One great feature to look for is a hidden pocket, which will usually sit on the side of the sling bag that’s against your body. This pocket is the ideal place to stash essential items like your passport, credit cards, or cash.

This Minaal sling has several pockets of varying sizes, so you’ll find a spot for everything—a passport, travel sunglasses, a battery bank, wallet, snacks, you name it. There’s even a security pocket for hiding cash and cards!

Specialist Sling Bags

Most sling bags fall into the travel/outdoors/EDC realm, but some have dared to be different. These specialist sling bags to work for very specific use cases (hence the whole “specialist” thing). We’ll briefly run through these sling bags here, so you’re not caught off-guard if you ever encounter one in the wild.

Secure Sling Bags

Chances are you’re going to be carrying some pretty important stuff in your sling bag—and this time, we’re not talking about snacks. We mean things like your passport, keys, and cash. While we do think some common sense can go a long way towards keeping your valuables safe on the road, we get that security features can help with overall peace of mind. Secure sling bags will likely have a number of features to prevent thieves from gaining quick access, including lockable zippers, hidden or lockable buckles, slash-proof straps, tear-proof fabrics, and RFID-blocking technology.

The trade-off here is that most secure sling bags look like secure sling bags. They also weigh more than their less safe counterparts, and they won’t be quite as accessible. Still, peace of mind is peace of mind.

The Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack is a tough sling that’s slash-proof, RFID-blocking, and lockable. The strap feels a bit bulky, but it’ll give you peace of mind that your stuff will be safe on the road.

Camera Sling Bags

When you want to snap pictures of your epic adventures but don’t plan on lugging around a full camera kit with different lenses and battery packs, a camera sling bag could be your new best friend. These allow you to carry a good amount of camera accessories without having to be worn down by an entire backpack. If you’re partial to point and shoot cameras, you can probably stick with any old sling bag, though camera-focused gear never hurts.

Camera sling bags usually have soft internal padding, durable and weather-resistant external materials, some adjustable inserts/dividers, and lots of organization. Some even have multiple access points. Plus, they’re still sling bags, so getting to your gear is quick and easy. Sling the sling to your chest, zip it open, grab your camera, and you’re good to go.

Camera sling bags vary wildly in size with some being as large as a backpack. At that point, we’d recommend just wearing a backpack for better weight distribution. Seriously, a heavy camera sling bag gets uncomfortable and bulky fast.

The Peak Design Everyday Sling is a versatile, durable bag that will keep your camera and accessories safe and organized while you roam the world. Its FlexFold dividers allow you to customize the interior to suit your needs. We think it’s just the right size, allowing you to carry a good amount of gear without weighing you down.

Don’t judge a sling bag by its cover. Wait, no, do. Definitely judge a sling bag by its cover.

Navigating the Complex World of Sling Bag Styles

If you decide to wear a sling bag, even if it’s only for convenience, you’re making a fashion statement. What kind of fashion statement is up to you. If you’re going to a festival, you might want something flashy and trendy. If you’re using it for day trips abroad, you probably want something that doesn’t scream tourist. If you’re Paris Hilton, you probably want to opt for something fabulous and expensive. No matter who you are, we’ve found five common styles to look out for.

The Fanny Pack Look-Alike

By now, you hopefully understand that a sling bag is not the same thing as a hip pack. But they do share some of the same DNA. Sometimes, you’ll find a sling bag that looks identical to a hip pack with an oblong shape, simple strap, and centered buckle.

In some cases, this is purely a fashion statement, but we love this style of sling bag for travel since it tends to be the perfect size for essentials and won’t take up too much space in your pack when not in use. Plus, it can be worn with a backpack. Win, win, win.

• Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
• Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
• lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Bellroy Sling Mini
• ALPAKA Bravo Sling Mini

Outdoorsy & Athletic

The outdoorsy sling bag looks like it wants to be a backpack, but hasn’t eaten quite enough vegetables. It tends to be bigger than other sling bag styles and can only be worn on the back. Sporty and colorful, these sling bags have tourist written all over them. So unless you want to stand out, you probably won’t want to take one with you on your epic tour of the world’s cities. But with comfortable straps and back panels, they’re nice for short hikes and outdoor excursions.

• Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling
• Patagonia Atom Sling
• Cotopaxi Chasqui 13L Sling (Cada Dia)
• The North Face Field Bag
• KAVU Rope Sling

Crossbody (The Purse or Murse)

Crossbody sling bags are the reason some people say sling bags are purses for men who are embarrassed to say they own a purse. It has a similar aesthetic to a purse, but with a longer strap and smaller body. They tend to have a more vertical orientation as well. We think crossbody slings work well for travel, although since they don’t sit as close to the body as other sling bags, may not feel as secure in a bustling metropolis or busy market.

• Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag
• Fjallraven Greenland Pocket
• Tom Bihn Small Cafe Bag
• Bellroy Lite Sacoche

While there are some sling bags out there that are seriously tactical (think Apocalypse ready), others just look tactical. While the former is probably better suited for outdoorsy things, the latter can be great for travel. Usually made of high-quality stuff, these bags are ready for whatever you throw at them.

• NITECORE SLB05
• 5.11 RUSH MOAB 6 Sling Pack
• Red Rock Rover Sling Pack

While Louis Vuitton and Prada sling bags fall under the fashion category, you don’t have to break the bank here (unless you want to, of course). Fashion sling bags are designed to impress with sleek zippers, unique straps, or other sophisticated design elements. Sometimes, although not always, this trendiness comes at a price—and that price is lower durability. That’s fine if your use-case is pretty low-impact, but if you’re planning to use your sling bag time and again while traveling the world, you may want to opt for another style.

• Bellroy City Pouch
• The North Face Isabella Hip Pack

It’s time to spread your wings and…choose a sling bag you’ll love! It’s as easy as one, two, three.

Forget the Best Sling Bag For Travel. Find the Best Sling Bag for YOU!

We would’ve loved to end this guide with “all that said, the best sling bag for travel is…” because, let’s be real, that would save us all a lot of time and effort. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as the best sling bag for travel. There is only the best sling bag for you . So, let’s review how you can choose a sling bag you’ll fall in love with. To make things extra easy, we’ve broken it up into three steps:

1. Decide Why You Want a Sling Bag

Planning on rocking your sling during Milan’s Fashion Week? Opt for a designer sling made with less durable materials. Planning on backpacking Southeast Asia for three years? You might want a sling that’ll last the entirety of the trip. Different sling bags are better or worse for different situations, so make sure to think through when you’ll be using your sling bag and for what. And make sure to consider every use-case—perhaps you’ll be visiting fashion week then backpacking through Thailand. Pick your sling bag accordingly.

2. Assess Quality & Function

Take a look at the elements of a sling bag and the quality of materials. Unless you get joy out of throwing things away, you’ll probably want a sling bag that’s going to last you a little while. Pay close attention to the sling bag’s fabric, zippers, buckles, and straps. An easy tip for assessing overall quality is to take a look at the company’s warranty. If a company is willing to stand behind its products and offer a meaty warranty, then you should be able to trust whatever they’re selling.

3. Choose Your Favorite Style

A sling bag is an accessory. A useful accessory, but an accessory nonetheless. So make sure you love how it looks. In the end, if you’re repulsed by how hideous your new sling bag is, it doesn’t matter that it’ll last you until 2075.

Alright! You’ve made it to the end, folks. You may have thought that a sling bag was only a fun twist on a resurgent trend from the ‘90s, but now you know it’s so much more. We deem thee an official sling bag expert.

Good luck with all your slinging adventures—and make sure to share any other sling bag tips you’ve learned with us and the rest of the Pack Hacker community.

P.S. If you want more, check out all of our gear reviews . We’re always testing and reviewing new sling bags, plus a bunch of other super dope stuff.

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

17 Best Sling Bags to Wear on Hikes, to the Beach, and Everywhere Else

By Meaghan Kenny and Paris Wilson

A must-have accessory we're adding to our closets (and suitcases) this summer and beyond: sling bags. Not only are these bags the most practical way to carry all of your daily essentials, they also add an effortless, chic look to even the simplest  workout or  loungewear set. Since they're made to be worn across your chest, sling bags will keep you hands-free whether you're running errands, on an afternoon hike, or working your way through airport security. When it comes to style we didn’t skimp on the selections either. With summer coming you’ll find vibrant, light colors that will brighten your look. And compared to their equally on-trend bag cousin, the  fanny pack , they tend to be a bit roomier; some have space for your beach read or water bottle. Below, we've rounded up the 17 best sling bags to wear on all your upcoming trips to make reaching for your  passport , wallet, and  sunglasses a breeze.

How do I choose a good sling bag?

Sling bags offer a lot of versatility when it comes to style and use. The main thing to keep in mind when shopping for one: comfort. Since sling bags are designed to sit snugly around your chest, finding one that doesn’t give you aches and pains while having it strapped to your body is the biggest win. The next thing to consider is what you’ll be using it for—is it for travel, concerts, or mostly day-to-day use? That answer can help determine the size and style that will be best for you.

What is the difference between a sling and shoulder bag?

A sling bag is worn around the upper body and compressed to the chest while a shoulder bag hangs lower and typically lands around the waist. Shoulder bags and sling bags come in an array of sizes, but sling bags tend to be more compact and designed to fit the necessities. Shoulder bags are usually larger, and often geared toward sophisticated, dressy settings, whereas slings bags are a more laid-back alternative.

Are sling bags useful?

Sling bags are ideal for occasions where you want to be hands-free, but still have everything you need. A bulky purse or large backpack can be stressful in travel settings, especially if you're worried about pickpockets or just generally losing your valuables. They're the perfect accessory for staying comfortable during long stretches of time on your feet—wear them on day hikes, sightseeing afternoons, and days when you find yourself with a long list of errands to run.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Terra sling bag

For those who might not have stepped into sling bag territory because of the small sizing, Calpak has you covered with its Terra sling bag. It is made of recycled polyester and has nylon compression straps to give you the most comfort while carrying it, as well as a top handle. With a 15-inch main compartment, there’s space for all your needs no matter where you are headed.

Béis Sport Sling

This sporty sling will elevate your summer athleisure look. The small sling features a microfiber-lined protective pocket for your valuables, a card organizer, and a water bottle pouch on the outside.

Coral Daisy sling bag

This tiny but mighty choice is perfect for summer days when you just need to carry the bare necessities: phone, cards, and lip balm . It's the ultimate go-to for concerts and music festivals when you want to be hands-free.

Calvin Klein Myra Sling Backpack

The Millie Sling bag has a sleek shape and clean lines. With a pebbled leather exterior, it's the sling to choose in place of a purse when you want a more polished look but need more comfort and space than a small crossbody bag or clutch can provide.

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

Baggallini sling

Small but roomy, this Baggallini Sling has space for a day's worth of necessities. There are three pockets to fit your keys, wallet, and earbuds, plus nice-to-have items like a water bottle , sunscreen or bug spray . The adjustable strap adds versatility to your look as well as comfort. Our favorite part: The sling features a side phone pocket, so you'll have a rummage-free day ahead.

Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag

Tested by UK contributor Sarah Leigh Bannerman, the Uniqlo Shoulder Bag has almost as much online hype as the Lululemon belt bag . Despite its name, it is popularly worn as a sling bag, and is something of a Mary Poppins tote when it comes to space: Bannerman was able to fit a bottle of water, book, her wallet and passport, hand sanitizer , a face mask, mini sun cream, and a sunglasses case inside.

Tumi Tahoe Lookout Expandable Sling

Save room packing multiple day bags for your next trip with this all-in-one sling bag from Tumi. This versatile sling has an adjustable strap that lets you wear it across your chest and close to your body on either side, and it can be expanded to use as a tote bag . (In its larger configuration, there's room for a water bottle, plenty of snacks, or even a quick change of clothes.) It's lightweight, water-resistant, and durable enough to bring on camping or hiking trips.

Everlane Cactus Sling Bag

This compact leather sling has an adjustable strap and fits only the basics—your phone, credit cards, and passport, at most. Plus, the green shade screams summer and will add a pop of color to a classic white T-shirt and jeans.

Coach Leather Sling Pack

This two-tone pebbled leather sling is ultra-sleek and makes every outfit appear more put together. Great for city trips, like that long-awaited European excursion , it can be worn across the body or on one side similarly to a backpack. Available in brown, ivory, and black leather, each of these shades are ideal for matching all of your summer wardrobe staples. 

Lululemon Wunderlust belt bag

Lululemon's Wunderlust belt bag is the ideal sporty bag for any upcoming weekend trips you're taking. It's contoured to hug your body and can be worn around the waist or over your shoulder for busy days on the move. Made of water-resistant material, this bag features an exterior zipped pocket for small essentials like your favorite lip balm , interior slip pockets, and an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit.

Béis water bottle sling

A favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager, the lightweight size of this Béis bag makes staying hydrated on the go an easier task to manage—it fits up to a 32-ounce water bottle while still giving you enough room to keep your phone, keys, and ID zipped away. Thanks to its adjustable strap, it can be worn as a crossbody bag or carried in your hand. The drawstring and cord lock closure cinches around a water bottle, too, keeping it secure on bumpy roads.

Cuyana Recycled Sling Bag 

Cuyana's recycled sling bag is ideal for when you just want to bring along one versatile bag you can wear multiple ways throughout a weekend trip . It has a zip closure and a slip pocket inside to fit your smaller essentials. Wear it as a short crossbody during the day exploring a new city and then adjust the strap at night to wear as a shoulder bag for dinner. Plus, this 100 percent recycled bag is also washable so you can clean up any accidental spills or scuffs.

66 North crossbody bag

Flager purchased this water resistant sling bag on a trip to Iceland last year and it was the perfect size for storing all of her daytime essentials. She was able to fit an entire standard-size water bottle , Kindle, wallet, earphones, and hand sanitizer inside and still had room to spare. Made of a soft waterproof rubber material, this bag will keep your valuables protected even in unpredictable weather.

MZ Wallace Metro Sling 

This quilted nylon sling bag from MZ Wallace will fit all of your summer essentials and still leave you with room to spare. It has a zipped front section to hold your phone and another zipped pocket inside the main section of the bag for extra storage. The multiple sections help keep me organized on the go—I'm never left digging through my bag for what feels like forever to find lip balm or cash.

Monos Sling Bag

A pair of bike shorts , a plain T, and this ivory sling bag from Monos will be my summer uniform. Made of vegan leather, this neutral-colored bag matches just about any outfit and elevates even a simple look. The thick, adjustable strap doesn't dig into your skin so it's comfortable to wear all day long, whether you're on a walk or jumping in and out of the car on a road trip. This one has multiple pockets on the inside and even a hidden pocket on the back to store your phone, wallet, or favorite Chapstick. 

Away Packable Sling Bag

For times when you don't have a whole lot of room in your suitcase to spare, Away's Packable Sling Bag is your friend. It can be folded down and fits into a small zip pouch that you can throw right in your suitcase or another bag when you don't need it. It's lightweight, water-resistant, and the adjustable strap lets you also wear it around the waist or across your chest.

Osprey Daylite Sling Backpack

Ideal for staying hands-free on a hike , bike ride, or camping trip, the Osprey sling is durable and water-resistant. It features a mesh organizer, key clip, and multiple pockets for plenty of storage. The strap is adjustable and the 100 percent recycled fabric is comfortable to wear for hours, even over a tank top or sports bra. 

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These are the best sling bags to wear when travelling

By Charley Ward

A must-have accessory we're adding to our closets (and luggage ) for our next trip: sling bags. Not only are these bags the most practical way to carry all of your daily essentials, they also add an effortless, chic look to even the simplest airport outfit . Since they're made to be worn across your chest, sling bags will keep you hands-free whether you're running errands, on an afternoon hike, or working your way through airport security . And compared to their equally on-trend bag cousin, the bum bag, they tend to be a bit roomier; some even have dedicated pouches to hold water bottles and sunglasses. Below, we've rounded up the best sling bags to wear on all your upcoming trips to make reaching for your passport , hand sanitizer, and phone a breeze.

Uniqlo's round mini shoulder bag

It's a simple style but in terms of value for money, this Uniqlo sling is hard to beat. The bag blew up on TikTok last year when a 1.7-second  video posted by @caitlinphillimore  demonstrated how much it could fit inside, from a pair of headphones to a large packet of biscuits. One of our writers even put it to the test and  took the viral £15 Uniqlo bag on holiday,  deeming it ‘the perfect travel companion.’ Since then Uniqlo has launched the bag in an array of colours and fabrics, including corduroy in time for winter. Be warned though, the various colours tends to sell out quickly so it's best to buy when you can.

Been London's Annis Sling Bag

The proudly minimal Annis sling, from London-based brand Been, is as eco-friendly as it is chic. All of its leather goods are crafted from offcuts sourced from UK tanneries; pieces that would otherwise go to waste. That would be a real shame, given how smooth, supple and soft it is. It's large enough for your purse, water bottle and small makeup bag, with an inside pocket for keeping a phone or boarding pass easily to hand. The adjustable strap helps keep a snug fit whether wearing a bulky coat or not. It’s available in a choice of three colours and personalisable for an extra £10.

Tumi's Compact Sling

For those who like to travel light, Tumi’s compact sling provides enough space for your daily essentials, with a handy exterior pocket for your phone to claw back more room inside. But the bijou size doesn’t mean that it’s light on features. Concealed within, there’s a key chain, luggage tag , pen loops and a tracer to help reignite you should you misplace it.

July's Carry Me

Australian brand July has a similar, more reasonably-priced hardshell bag, although, of course, without that telltale ridged design. It’s made from the same polycarbonate as the brand’s suitcases, helping ensure precious cargo remains safe, and comes with colour-matched zips and a strap. Inside, there’s a concealed zipped pocket, and the lining detaches to hold the case open.

Coach's Gotham Pack

Coach has created the perfect in-flight bag : sleek, streamlined, and large enough to fit your iPad, book and some snacks. It’s finished in polished pebble leather, with two exterior pockets to keep your phone and keys easily to hand. The strap is adjustable for shoulder or crossbody wear.

Lululemon's Everywhere Belt Bag

This belt bag has gained cult status as one of the best to wear while on the move. Designed to be worn around the waist or over your shoulder, it features an exterior zipped pocket for small essentials like your favourite lip balm, interior pockets for larger items, and an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit. The bag comes in a larger two-litre size as well.

Bellroy's Lite Sling

There’s more than enough space for daily accessories in this roomy Bellroy sling. It's been developed to be especially lightweight, so it’s a good one to reach for on hikes and active days. The seven litre capacity comfortably allows space for a water bottle and daily essentials, plus there's a couple of hidden slip pockets for smaller items like keys, and a specialised sunglasses pouch. It also rolls up impressively small, so you can stow it in your carry-on without losing precious suitcase real estate. The magnetic clasp, which can be opened and closed one-handedly, is a clever upgrade, too.

Away's The Everywhere Sling Bag

This is a deceptively roomy sling bag with two main compartments, two internal ones and an additional front pocket for your phone or passport. The water-resistant nylon body makes it a good one to bring on hiking expeditions and more adventurous trips away. It comes in a selection of pleasing shades – we like this jaunty blue and green number – including a few that match Away’s suitcase range.

Paul Richardson

Charley Ward

Sonya Barber

Mary Winston Nicklin

Rimowa's Sling Clutch

Celebrity-favourite luggage brand Rimowa, beloved for its now-iconic ridged aluminium suitcases, has added a practical sling bag to its chic range. It’s got all the style sensibilities you’d expect from a Rimowa case, with a leather interior, two card slots and a roomy compartment to keep sightseeing essentials safe. It is expensive, yes, but a statement-making piece that will last a lifetime – and won’t spend most of its time languishing in the hold.

Prada's Logo Nylon Banana Bag

Small but perfectly formed, with Prada’s signature nylon finish and logo up front, this sling bag has one bijou compartment to keep your keys, purse and phone handy. However, those heading out all day have no need to fear, as the brand also has a roomier option , ready to house all your travel essentials the next time you’re heading off.

COS's Swing Crossbody Bag

COS’s 100 per cent leather bag is a consistent bestseller, retaining its spot in the brand’s core collection year after year. Now, the colour range has expanded to six shades, giving us an option to accompany every outfit. It’s one of the chicer sling bags we’ve found, being versatile enough to handle the hop from office to bar on a weekday through to a sightseeing weekend away seamlessly.

Free People's Hudson Sling Bag

We love this soft suede slouchy bag from Free People for something more boho than sporty. The style features two separate, easy-to-reach zip-up pockets – one small pouch to fit keys and wallet and another larger pouch big enough to fit a medium-sized water bottle. The best part is that the bag comes in 13 different colour options, from spicy mustard yellow to bright crimson red and dark jade green.

Eastpak's Springer Bag

Eastpak's classic springer bag is a best seller for good reason. The durable and adjustable style is water resistant and 100 per cent vegan, plus it comes in over 70 different colours, prints and textures, from furry pink to shiny bronze.

Best Sling Backpacks For 2022 (Great For Travel)

You need a bag that can hold all your things. You’ll probably grab a backpack to carry around as much stuff as you can. Or you already have a messenger bag that can stay by your side.

At A Glance: Our Top 5 Picks for Sling Backpacks

• Most Secure/Safe Pacsafe Unisex Venturesafe X Anti-Theft Sling Bag Jump To Review
• Most Affordable Mouteenoo Sling Backpack Jump To Review
• Lots of space Timbuk2 Vapor Sling Crossbody Bag Jump To Review
• Super Light Outdoor Master Packable Sling Bag Jump To Review
• Best for Outdoors Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger Backpack Jump To Review

You can easily pull out whatever you need and keep a better eye on your belongings. You do know that you can get the best of both worlds, right? That’s why sling backpacks exist.

Top Product Overview

The best sling bags, pacsafe unisex venturesafe x anti-theft sling bag.

If the previous backpack I showed you weren’t really the safest option, then this is the complete opposite of it. Pacsafe is generally a brand that manufacturers anti-theft bags ; this includes cut-proof fabrics, lockable zippers, hidden compartments, and RFID safe pockets.

When it comes to the Venture safe , in particular, you get all of the features above, as well as a slash-proof carry strap. I f you’re frequently riding public transport, or are just paranoid that someone might try to rob you, then this is one of the best messenger bags you can buy.

This is a sling bag, but not too small – i t can still fit a 10” tablet  without any issues.  The single strap is made from perforated material, and it is ventilated quite well, which makes this a good option for hot, sweaty summer days.

This Pacsafe backpack has  two compartments; there’s the larger main compartment that features an organizer panel, with an RFID safe pocket, a tablet sleeve, a couple of pen holders, and a larger mesh zippered pocket.

And there’s a  smaller front compartment,  which has a key clip, another zippered pocket, and a phone/small tablet sleeve inside.

In addition to those two, this pack also has  a front shove-it pocket – a stretchy compartment that you can use to stash a spare layer of clothing.

The Venturesafe is a great sling bag for people who need the functionality of a proper pack, but just don’t carry enough items to fill one up.  And it has the advantage of being one of the safest bags that exist in the world.

• Great anti-theft backpack
• Ventilated shoulder strap
• Multiple compartments and pockets
• A little pricey
• No dedicated water bottle pocket
• Will not fit a laptop

Product Information

• Weight: 1.01 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.57” x 7.87” x 4.33”
• Colors: Black, Blue Steel, Plus
• Features: RFID Safe Pocket; Robar Sports Locking System; PopNLock Security Clip; Slash-Proof Carry Strap; Cut-Proof Material; Hidden Pocket On Backpanel
• Material: 210D Nylon Diamond Ripstop

Mouteenoo Sling Backpack

Want a sling bag that has all the functionality and capacity of a traditional backpack ? Especially the men will enjoy this one from Mouteenoo .

This sling backpack  can actually fit a 15.6” laptop in the padded sleeve,  which is pretty insane. So, if you have a large laptop and you’re looking for  something practical and affordable for daily life,  this is definitely an option you should consider.

In addition to the laptop sleeve, this pack also has  a tablet compartment on the front, a phone pocket on the shoulder strap, a quick-access hipbelt pocket, and a side water bottle pocket.  And that is not all; there is  another smaller zippered compartment on the front panel, as well as a pocket behind that.

The organizational options are great, and this pack is a good choice for all of you that like to keep all of their smaller items separated.

One downside of the pack is that there is no information on what material exactly it is made from. All they say is that it is made from a water-resistant material, so I can’t really tell you whether or not this is going to be durable.

Another thing I don’t like that much is that  the strap is sewn onto the backpack. It’s not reversible, and it is designed to fit over the right shoulder;  if you’re a lefty, that could be an issue. But at least  the backpanel is quite comfortable; it has spaced-out panels, that feel soft against your back, and which allow air to flow so you don’t get too sweaty.

• Fit a 15.6” laptop
• Great organization features
• Very affordable
• Strap not reversible
• External material unknown
• Not a lot of color variety
• Weight: 1.35 pounds (shipping weight)
• Dimensions: 11.8'' x 4.3'' x 16”
• Colors: Blue, Dark Grey, Grey
• Features: Detachable Cellphone Pocket; Internal Laptop Sleeve, Ventilated Backpanel; Multiple Compartments
• Material: Water-resistant fabric

Patagonia Atom Sling Bag

Patagonia is another US-based company that specializes in outdoor wear and gear. They  focus on sustainable products built for what they call the “silent sports”: climbing, surfing, skiing and snowboarding, fly fishing, and trail running. But no matter what the sling bag is meant for, it’s  a great fit for travel too!

With this brand promise, the Patagonia Atom Sling is built exactly for your outdoor activity of choice. It weighs just 10.1 oz and measures 17 x 10 x 3 inches. The material is also treated with a Durable Water Repellent finish and made of 50% recycled polyester for the exterior, and 100% for the interior.

It features a great system for carrying your everyday essentials and offers two different compartments that are super easy to reach while on the move.

The asymmetrical harness also means that it hugs the body closely meaning you can carry it all day without stress. Inside is also a smart padded tablet sleeve, so you can comfortably carry yours without stress.

The outside of the sling bag also has two helpful compression straps which means you can carry a lot, or a little, and still have the bag hold the contents nice and tight, no matter what you are doing.

And in case you are walking in the heat, or just doing a little exercise, it has a breathable mesh that helps wick away the sweat, just in case.

The last handy feature worth mentioning is the small pouch on the front which allows you to stash often used items such as your wallet, phone, or even your sunglasses.

• Water-resistant & uses recycled materials
• Lots of options for storage front and back
• Tablet sleeve and space for a phone on the front
• Moisture-wicking material on the back
• No water bottle pocket
• Only a two-point system so might swing when you move a lot
• Weight: 10.1 oz
• Capacity: 8L
• Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 3 inches
• Two main compartments and a small front compartment on the strap, wicking mesh on the back, body-hugging design. Internal padded tablet sleeve. DWR water-resistant partly recycled material.
• Outside Material: 7.4-oz 630-denier 100% nylon (50% recycled/50% high-tenacity) plain weave.
• Lining: 3.3-oz 200-denier 100% recycled polyester.

Timbuk2 Vapor Sling Crossbody Bag

The Vapor Sling Crossbody Bag by Timbuk2 is a good everyday option. It’s large enough to fit a tablet and notebooks or larger items on the back. And it features multiple pockets, so you can actually organizer your belongings in this small sling bag.

The  exterior of this sling bag is made from recycled Nylon, which is both durable and sustainable. The pack has four front pockets, so it’s simple to put everything in its place and know where it is.

There is a zippered pocket with a key holder which I love because dropping your keys accidentally is the last thing anyone wants! On top of that, the top pocket is padded with soft tricot material so you can protect your phone or sunglasses.

The main back pocket is where the larger items like the tablet go. And Timbuk2 has put in a dedicated sleeve complete with velcro closure to ensure it does not slip out when opened.

This sling pack is designed to be a super flexible everyday sling bag that can be worn on either shoulder or around your waist. Depending on what is in it of course, and on what you are doing at the time.

• Good for organization
• Fits a tablet
• Features a Tikki bottle opener
• Velcro closure – not exactly safe
• Weight: 0.7 pounds
• Dimensions: 7.09 x 3,35 inches
• Colors: Jet Black, Granite, Cocoa
• Material: Recycled Nylon

Outdoor Master Packable Sling Bag

OutdoorMaster, as the name suggests, sells all kinds of gear for outdoor adventures. You can find a lot of items here for both water and land activities. Prices aren’t so bad, either, which is why their Packable Sling Bag is at the top of the list.

The OutdoorMaster Packable Sling Bag is a  12L pack  that is incredibly lightweight at just 0.33 lbs. It’s meant to be foldable into a tiny pouch so you can stow it away without taking up too much space. When laid flat, it measures  8 x 6 x 1.5 inches  but can expand to  10 x 18.5 x 7 inches .

The padded shoulder strap has a front pocket where you can store your phone and a side pocket for a water bottle. The bottom of the shoulder strap also connects to the bag with a hook, so you can easily shift the bag to sit on your right or your left shoulder. You can also use these rings to attach your sling bag to a larger bag or luggage.

There’s an external pouch in this sling bag for more storage, but also a secret inner pocket for your valuables.

It’s made of nylon which makes it lightweight and foldable, but this has some disadvantages. It’s

It comes in five colors: Black, Red, Army Green, Blue, Purple, Ocean Green, and Rose Red (pink). OutdoorMaster also offers 6 months 100% satisfaction guarantee warranty.

• Lightweight and foldable for easy storage
• Several pockets for different items
• Big enough for day trips or light hikes
• Not waterproof
• Structure doesn't hold shape if not fully packed
• Weight: 0.33 pounds
• Dimensions (packed): 8 inches (H) x 6 inches (L) x 1.5 inches (W)
• Dimensions (unpacked): 10 inches (H) x 18.5 inches (L) x 7 inches (W)
• Colors: Black, Red, Army Green, Blue, Purple, Ocean Green and Rose Red (pink)
• Capacity: 12L
• Features: Phone pocket on strap, External pocket, Secret Inner Pocket, Side Pocket for a water bottle, D-rings, and Hook on strap
• Material: Nylon

YUOTO Sling Backpack

The Yuoto sling pack is  one of the more affordable options . It doesn’t have too many cool or high-tech features, but it does have a really hot price tag (under $25). So, if you want a sling pack just for the sake of it and don’t really care for anything fancy, this is a great option for you.

It is one of the larger sling bags you can find, and it has  a total of five external compartments.  The  main compartment is the largest one, and it can easily fit a 10” tablet,  as well as a few other items. There is  a smaller zippered pocket on the front panel of this pack, as well as another larger compartment behind it.

And you also get  a stretch water bottle pocket,  which can easily fit a 16-ounce bottle. In addition to that, these sling bags have  a phone pocket on the shoulder strap, as well as a hidden zippered pocket right behind the backpanel.

Overall, you will definitely have plenty of space for your everyday necessities, and you will even be able to organize them!

The  backpanel is padded and covered with breathable mesh , so you shouldn’t get too sweaty when you’re wearing this sling pack.  The same goes for the shoulder strap , which features  an adjustable (ambidextrous) position.

There’s one thing I don’t like that much about this sling bag, and it is the  grab handle . It’s a  plain webbing handle,  and it is very small. This is not going to be comfortable if you actually have to carry the pack in your hand, and that’s a downside for me.

• Very affordable sling bag
• Large capacity
• Grab handle is cheap
• Not water resistant
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 11” x 6” x 17”
• Colors: Black, Blue, Grey, Khaki, Magenta
• Features: Multiple Compartment And Pockets; Ventilated Backpanel And Shoulder Strap; Hidden Wallet Pocket In The Back
• Material: Polyester

Incase CL58083 Sling Pack for GoPro

This is the perfect sling backpack for all you GoPro/Action camera junkies! If you’re always carrying it with you, then this is just the pack you are looking for.

The  pack has a main compartment with padded walls, which will protect your action camera at all times. This also means that the pack has pretty  good impact and shock resistance  – in case you drop it on the floor, the padding should keep your camera from breaking or getting damaged.

The main compartment is  actually spacious enough to fit a DSLR camera,  so it’s a good choice for lots of hobbies that include expensive electronics. This sling bag also features a hidden compartment in the back, which is also padded, and just the right size for your lenses or action camera accessories .

Because that other compartment is on the lower part of the backpanel, the pack won’t be remarkably comfortable to wear. Sure, it is padded, but  there’s no breathable mesh  covering it, so there’s a chance you could get sweaty.

However,  the shoulder strap has both, so at least that part of your body will stay cool and dry.

The Incase sling bags also feature  a faux fur-lined compartment for your iPad, as well as a couple of smaller zippered pockets for your other necessities.  It lacks a water bottle pocket, but I don’t really mind that, since this is not a generic, everyday type of messenger bag.

• Best for people who carry action cameras/DSLRs
• iPad sleeve
• Ergonomic and ventilated shoulder strap
• Somewhat heavy
• No color variety
• Weight: 2.45 pounds
• Dimensions: 17.2” x 11.5” x 5.5”
• Colors: Black/Lumen
• Features: Two Padded And Shock Resistant Compartments; Padded Ergonomic Shoulder Strap; Faux Fur Lined iPad Compartment
• Material: 1680 ballistic nylon and 600D poly non-PVC

Waterfly Chest Sling Bags

If you are looking for a waterproof sling bag then this compact and lightweight option from Waterfly is worth checking out. They have thought of almost everything including space for your tablet in one of the two main compartments of varying sizes. It has an adjustable strap, which also has space for your phone. So, it’s simple to grab it on the go.

The front compartment also has some great organizing capabilities to help store those smaller, harder to find items that always slip down the bottom of the pack.

The other great feature of this sling pack is that you can move the strap from left to right , depending on your carrying preference.

It’s made from water-resistant nylon , so is not exactly “waterproof” in the sense of taking a shower with it, but it will certainly be better than one that is not. And, the shoulder strap has some nice breathable material so you won’t get super-sweaty on the go with this messenger bag.

• Water-Resistant
• Space for a tablet and phone
• Small and light, but enough space for daily essentials
• Comfortable and breathable material
• Could be too small for those who carry a lot
• Weight: 0.45 pounds
• Capacity: 10L
• Colors: Army Green, Black, Blue, Purple, Rose, and Sapphire Blue
• Features: Two vertical zip compartments, water-resistant, phone and tablet spaces, handy front organizer.
• Material: Water-resistant nylon

KAVU Rope Sling Bag

KAVU is an American-based company that specializes in unique and quirky outdoor lifestyle items .

The KAVU Rope Sling is a shoulder sling meant for everyday use. It’s small in size, but it expands to fit your necessities for a day hike, including your shoes.

The best part about this bag is it’s made of 600D polyester that makes the pack water-resistant . The rope strap is unique in design and in comfort as its soft material keeps it from digging into your shoulder too much.

The bag has two vertical zip compartments, two key or cell phone pockets, and a padded back.

The KAVU Rope Sling measures  20″ x 11″  and weighs  2.5 lbs . Though the weight is due mainly to the thick material, it may start feeling a little heavy at the end of the day.

It comes in a variety of both subdued and quirky designs: Black Topo, Brick, Busy Livin, BW Plaid, Camo, Campground, Deep Teal, Driftwood, Electric Lily, Firecracker, Fly Fish, Island Ikat, Majove Oasis, Natural Diver, Navy Camper, Paradise, Snow Timber, Sunset, Surfs Up, Tangerine, Taupe, Top Water, Trail Marker.

It doesn’t have as many pockets, rings, and hooks as some of the other items on this list, but the KAVU Rope Sling is a great bag to carry around as you explore the city or go on a short hike.

• Comes in a variety of designs to fit any kind of personality
• Small in size, but big enough for daily necessities
• Comfortable rope strap
• Not enough exterior pockets, no hooks
• Strap is affixed to the right shoulder
• A bit heavier than other bags
• Weight: 2.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 11L" x 20H"
• Colors: Black Topo, Brick, Busy Livin, BW Plaid, Camo, Campground, Deep Teal, Driftwood, Electric Lily, Firecracker, Fly Fish, Island Ikat, Majove Oasis, Natural Diver, Navy Camper, Paradise, Snow Timber, Sunset, Surfs Up, Tangerine, Taupe, Top Water, Trail Marker
• Features: Two vertical zip compartments, two key or cell phone pockets, padded back

Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger Backpack

If you’re trying to find  a rugged and durable sling backpack that can withstand any outdoor condition, then the Kodiak is what you’re looking for.  This looks like a regular outdoor backpack,  designed to get you through extreme environments and weather conditions . But it only has  one shoulder strap.

Which is supposed to go over your right shoulder, and unfortunately is  not reversible . And that’s pretty much the only serious downside. The  backpanel is padded and features spaced-out ridges , which allow your back to breathe, while the padded shoulder strap is covered with breathable mesh.

The main compartment of this pack is very spacious and has several pockets inside. In fact, this entire backpack has about 23 liters of capacity, which is more than enough to get you through a day in the outdoors.

It features several external compartments and pockets, including a dedicated sleeve for a hydration reservoir.In addition to that, there are several  daisy chain webbings  all over the front of the backpack, which you can attach bulky gear to, with the help of a carabiner.

The Maxpedition Kodiak is  an insanely rugged outdoor backpack . If that is what you’re looking for, then you will definitely enjoy it. But if you’re more interested in simple, everyday sling bags, then this is not really the right option for you.

• Fits 15.4” laptops
• Hydration bladder sleeve
• External gear attachment points
• Fixed strap
• Weight: 2.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 3.5" x 7.5" x 20"
• Colors: Wolf Grey
• Features: Daisy Chain Webbing; Hydration Reservoir Sleeve; Multiple Compartments And Pockets; Organizer Panel In Front Compartment
• Material: 1000-Denier water and abrasion resistant light-weight ballistic nylon fabric

Pacsafe Luggage Metrosafe

The Metrosafe is another excellent anti-theft sling pack by Pacsafe. But it has a different design than the Venturesafe I showed you earlier – this one is actually available in several different styles, including both a regular backpack as well as a crossbody bag.

It’s a very popular option because it is an amazing everyday backpack. It’s large enough that you can fit all of your on-the-go must-haves inside, and it has p lenty of different pockets and compartments that allow you to stay organized throughout the day.

In addition to that, this has all of the  anti-theft features  you would expect from Pacsafe – RFID blocking pocket, cut-proof fabric, slash-proof straps, and lockable zippers.

The main compartment of this pack is spacious, and it features the RFID blocking pocket for your wallet, as well as a 10” tablet sleeve. There is also plenty of room between those two pockets.

If you’re all about staying organized, then you will love the front compartment of the Metrosafe. It has an organizing panel, which includes a sleeve for a smaller tablet (7”), pen holders, slip pockets, a key clip, and another zippered pocket.

Unfortunately, there is  no water bottle pocket  on this pack, and that’s a shame. I’m also a bit sad that they removed the cell phone pocket on the shoulder strap that was featured in the earlier design – but I guess the backpack is more secure this way.

• Fits two tablets
• Organizer panel in the front compartment
• Anti-theft sling backpack
• Weight: 1.18 pounds
• Dimensions: 12.6" x 7.9" x 2.8"
• Colors: Black
• Features: RFID Safe Pocket; Lockable Zippers; Slash-Proof Fabrics; Organizer Panel; Two Tablet Sleeves

Texbo Genuine Cowhide Leather Cross Body Sling Bag

With all of the sling backpacks so far, the main focus was on functionality and efficiency. We haven’t really talked about  style and fashion  – just because something is really functional, doesn’t mean you will like it if it’s not well-designed.

That’s where the Texbo leather sling backpack comes in –  if you want something that’s cool and fashionable, then this is the bag you should get. It is made from  genuine, full-grain cowhide leather,  which is incredibly soft to touch. The pack is available in two colors, both of which look stunning to me.

However, keep in mind that this is not a rugged or insanely durable backpack; leather scuffs, and if you want this to look new and gorgeous for a long time,  you will need to take care of it. Just like you would take care of your favorite leather shoes .

It is also not going to be remarkably comfortable, because  the backpanel is all leather . But it is still pretty functional since it has multiple compartments and pockets.

That includes a spacious main compartment, a smaller front compartment, two zippered pockets on the front, a smaller zippered pocket in the back, and a detachable pouch.

Another thing worth mentioning is that this backpack actually has an expandable capacity, which is a unique feature.

• Expandable capacity
• Great for organization
• Fashionable and stunning
• Shoulder strap not reversible
• No ventilation or padding in the backpanel
• Weight: 1.54 pounds
• Dimensions: 10.6” x 3.1” x 18.9”
• Colors: Dark Brown, Yellow Brown
• Features: Expandable Capacity; Detachable Pouch; Stylish Exterior; Lots Of Compartments And Pockets
• Material: Full-grain cowhide leather

To Sum It All Up

A sling backpack can be your new best friend if you’ll be running around endlessly, whether it’s in the city, along a trail, or on top of the mountain. Keeping your hands free to do things other than hold your bag in place is a convenience many travelers overlook. Especially since it gives you such easy access to all your travel gear.

If you’re shopping around for a new sling backpack, keep in mind what you’ll be using it for. There are many designs and features loaded on these bags nowadays, so choose the one that will best fit your purpose. In the end, whether it’s simply for your everyday stroll, or specifically for outdoor activities, a sling backpack is a convenient way to keep all your belongings in place while you enjoy your travels.

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Our Top Picks

Our top picks for travel sling bags in 2024, our other recommendations, features to keep in mind when shopping for travel sling bags, are sling bags good for travel, is a sling bag considered a carry-on, what is the difference between a sling bag and a crossbody bag, is a sling bag the same as a fanny pack, how we picked, the 17 best travel sling bags for your next adventure - ranked.

Related Gear:    The 20 Best Sling Bags in 2024    The 15 Best Laptop Bags [Find the Right Bag For You]    Best EDC Backpacks on the Market in 2024

Sling bags are one of the most convenient ways to carry travel gear away from home. The sling design makes taking the bag on and off easier, especially compared to a traditional backpack. The single strap over the shoulder lets you carry a bag on either side of your body, and reducing the number of straps required to carry the same amount of gear tends to make things more lightweight.

With a travel sling bag, you can carry a bag at your front or back, depending on the situation. Back carry adds excellent stability, while carrying at the front lets you access your gear quickly, which is great if you carry a camera or other essential gear daily. While you can carry a backpack like a sling by only shouldering one of the straps, you’ll quickly find that to be highly uncomfortable and unbalanced compared to a sling. Some sling bags have even better padding than a traditional backpack, so they can be loaded to your heart's content with no problem. And unlike a briefcase or duffel bag, the longer strap is more comfortable for longer trips.

Like other everyday carry travel bags, there’s a wide variety of sling bag designs. They span the entire range from small personal bags that augment your other travel bags of choice to large and thoughtfully designed sling bags that can be your one-bag solution when you’re headed out the door.

The Best Overall Travel Sling: Mission Workshop Rummy AP [ Buy ]

The Best Budget Travel Sling: tomtoc Navigator-T24 [ Buy ]

The Best Water-Repellant Travel Sling: 1733 VX21 Side Pack [ Buy ]

The Best Large Travel Sling: GREENROOM136 JunkMonkey [ Buy ]

The Best Lightweight Travel Sling: Alpaka Flight Sling [ Buy ]

• Weatherproof rolltop or flap-down configurations
• Custom hardware
• Large tech storage
• Stabilizer strap
• Made in the USA
• Ambidextrous strap configuration
• Waterproof zippers
• Secret back pocket
• Modular attachment points
• Removable or tuckable strap
• Roomy interior organization
• Customizable build
• Heavy-duty strap and removable stabilizer
• Inner shell with weatherproof ripstop lining
• Protected and lined laptop compartment
• Fits and iPad mini or Nintendo Switch, or both
• Detachable nylon strap
• Silent YKK AquaGuard zippers
• May be too large for smaller excursions
• Roomy interior, but no padded sections for tech
• Double snap fasteners may not offer the quickest way into the bag

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The Best Overall Travel Sling: Mission Workshop Rummy AP

With a generous 27L capacity, room for up to a 17” laptop, and a thoughtful, travel-friendly design, the Mission Workshop Rummy is my pick for the best overall travel sling. The Rummy features Mission Workshop’s patented Arkiv closure system, which uses a unique slotted pairing of metal hardware and cloth to ensure the bag doesn’t open in the wind and rain while remaining easy to open and close when needed. The weather resistance is further enhanced because the Rummy is available in HT500 technical fabric and ultra-durable 10 oz American Waxed Canvas. The material design gives you the confidence to load the Rummy with your tech and travel essentials on your back wherever you go.

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The Best Budget Travel Sling: tomtoc Navigator-T24

The tomtoc Navigator-T24 provides a slim, sleek, streamlined design with much padding for your work laptop or tablet. Its 7L capacity gives a lot of internal organization space to help keep small daily essentials like pens and pencils from tumbling around in your closed pack as you go about your day. Its crossbody design supports left and right-handed carry, requiring only swapping the sling from one D-ring buckle on the side of the pack to the other. And the premium YKK zippers and Duraflex buckles used also provide a long-lasting usage lifespan. With the Navigator-T24, you get a lot of bang for your buck, and because you can pick up this pack right now for just over $50 at the time of this writing, it earns my pick for the best budget travel sling.

The Best Water-Repellant Travel Sling: 1733 VX21 Side Pack

Regarding water repellency, few things beat sailcloth, and the 1733 VX21 Side Pack sling features this in spades. VX21 X-Pac is an American-made laminated synthetic fabric with a diamond ripstop layer and integrated waterproofing that makes bags featuring this material shed rain. The material is also immensely lightweight, especially compared to higher denier fabrics that still require a DWR layer on top of it to get close to the same amount of weatherproof performance. As for the design of the Side Pack, 1733 has reimagined the fanny pack with a cross-shoulder design that’s also highly modular. The best part is that shops with extensive experience and attention to detail stitch each bag in the United States. The Side Pack features MOLLE/PALS compatible webbing and an elastic rope lid to augment the pack. There’s enough room inside to fit a mirrorless camera and other small essentials, all secured with rugged YKK Aquaguard zippers.

The Best Large Travel Sling: GREENROOM136 JunkMonkey

The JunkMonkey is a Malaysian design from GREENROOM136, and it features a bombproof 1000D CORDURA nylon fabric for the bag's exterior and 420D polyurethane-coated ripstop nylon fabric for the interior. These protect 19L of space inside for your tech, travel, and everyday essential needs. One of the most unique things about this bag is the internal ripstop lining that increases its weather resistance and allows you to slightly overpack the bag while keeping it close to your back. That ripstop lining is high-visibility yellow, making it easier to identify the gear you need inside the bag, which can support up to a 15” Apple MacBook Pro or similar laptop. Because you can pack this bag full to the brim and do it comfortably with its winged back harness and stabilizer strap, the GREENROOM136 JunkMonkey is my pick for the best large travel sling.

The Best Lightweight Travel Sling: Alpaka Flight Sling

The Alpaka Flight Sling is a slim travel bag that’s useful for carrying your passport, boarding pass, and other small travel essentials close to your person at all times. You can use it to augment your travel space on a plane that limits the number of bags you can have in the cabin since you can tuck it under clothing once you clear security. The 210/200D ripstop construction of the bag, combined with the YKK Aquaguard zippers, helps it keep the elements out when worn externally when you’re out and about at your final destination. The bag’s immense practicality and traveling versatility make it my pick for the best lightweight travel sling.

Manhattan Portage Atlas Sling Pro: Our co-founder Bernard spent over a year designing this sling with Manhattan Portage. The bullet profile fits up to an 11" tablet (one of the few slings able to accommodate the size) and all your gear while remaining narrow and nimble while commuting through crowds. It sits centered on the back and has fantastic modularity and organizational space.

Aer Day Sling 3 Max X-Pac: Using X-Pac fabric allows Aer to provide substantial padding and protection for tablets up to 11” without bringing the weight of the overall bag up too much. The high-visibility interior also makes it easy to rapidly access your notes and other small gear essentials at the office or on the go.

Bellroy Venture Sling Camera Edition: This bag is suitable for short photo trips with room for a small mirrorless or compact camera and lots of tech organizer space. It can also be used as a travel bag, with all your camera gear ready to go once you’re where you need to be.

Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L: The seatbelt fabric design of the strap, quick adjustability, and hinged attachment make this one of the most comfortable slings you can carry, even if you don’t tote around cameras regularly. Peak Design’s lifetime warranty is also hard to beat, making this bag a buy-it-for-life deal you won’t regret.

Trakke Largo Sling: The Trakke Largo Sling takes quick access to the extreme, with two large zippered compartments and organizational space that make retrieving your everyday carry gear easy. The COBRA buckle strap is also quicker than a standard buckle, and its reversibility adds to the Trakke Largo’s ambidextrous appeal.

WNDRD Rogue 9L Sling: With its 1680D and 840D ballistic nylon with 5PM coating, the WNDRD Rogue 9L is one of the most heavy-duty and water-resistant sling bags you can carry. The internal dividers and tripod holder make the Rogue great for dedicated photography carry, but you’ll also appreciate the added padding if you carry tech essentials.

Mystery Ranch Hip Monkey Sling Bag: The Hip Monkey fits more of a traditional fanny pack style, but the wide strap makes it comfortable to wear as a sling. The bag fits a professional-sized mirrorless camera and lens with room to spare. If you find yourself in Japan, there’s an exclusive version of this pack using X-Pac fabric, and that is my current daily driver for 1.5-bag travel.

EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack: While the EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack is best carried ergonomically behind you at your lumbar region, the body-hugging design of the pack lets it work well slung over your shoulder, too. Its name denotes its intended use, and the breathable back panel on the Mountain Hip Pack deals with sweat and outdoor exertions better than standard spacer mesh on other bags.

North St. Bags Pioneer 12 Hip Pack: The Pioneer 12 is a versatile hip-pack sling that can also be used as a handlebar bag if you have a bicycle. It’s also made in the United States in Portland, Oregon, and North St. Bags guarantees it for life.

Wizard Works Hobgob Hip Pack: Wizard Works designed the Hobgob to minimize sharp edges and plastic hardware from rubbing against you while you wear it, making it comfortable for long-term use. Unlike many sling bags, you can add their Quick Draw Bottle Pocket to stay hydrated throughout the day.

DSPTCH Slingpack RND Dyneema: The technical construction of the DSPTCH Slingpack RND Dyneema makes it lightweight for its 15L capacity at 1lb 14oz. A hidden security pocket also serves as an excellent place to carry items you cannot lose, like your passport, when you’re out of the country.

Osprey Metron: The Osprey Metron was designed as a bike messenger sling bag, and it has lots of storage for laptops, tablets, parcels, and essential documents. The flap cover is also secured with buckles and hook and loop, making it highly unlikely that anything flies out of your sling when you’re screaming down a hill on a bike.

The plethora of choices for travel sling bags can make it intimidating if you’re looking for your first bag, but a few considerations should always come into mind when making your choice. These boil down to a few things: the material your bag is made of, the size and capacity of the bag itself, how comfortable it is to carry daily, and any special features any particular design might have compared to the rest.

The material in your travel sling bag is essential because it impacts the durability of your bag and more. Picking a sling bag made out of flimsy material means it will break easily. If weight is an issue, you can choose a bag made out of ripstop nylon, sailcloth, or Dyneema Composite Fabric to maintain a good level of durability while being less hefty than traditional materials like waxed canvas or leather. If you’re looking for absolute bombproof construction, high-denier ballistic nylon is your best choice.

The size of your travel sling bag is essential because it marks the limit of the gear you can pack. However, travel limitations also dictate the size of the bag you pick. Depending on the airline or railroad restrictions of your choice, you may have to limit based on a personal bag or carry-on size compatibility.

Comfort is sometimes underrated when picking a travel sling bag, but it’s critical because a poorly designed sling bag will be more uncomfortable to carry compared to a backpack that might be designed sub-optimally. The single strap design can bite into your neck or shoulder if it’s not done well, and that’s why picking a bag with a good strap and enough padding to make it comfortable is essential. Some sling bags further augment the equation by adding stabilizer straps and ambidextrous options that make switching between left-handed and right-handed carry easy based on the load and travel.

The features emphasized in each travel sling bag should correspond to your travel needs. You may value padded dividers and laptop sleeves if you carry a laptop, tablet, or expensive camera gear. People with lots of stationery in their everyday carry will value dedicated organizational space. If you live or travel to places that rain or snow a lot, waterproof materials and quality zippers like those from YKK come into play. You choose the most important features to you, and sometimes that may mean picking more than one travel sling bag for different situations at different times.

Best Travel Sling Bag FAQs

Sling bags are great for travel because they are easier to carry than a backpack or tote bag. Sloping a bag across your shoulder on either side makes it easy to get through crowded bus terminals and get to where you need to go without hassle.

A sling bag can be considered a carry-on bag if it meets your airline's size requirements. However, most sling bags on the market are substantially smaller than the carry-on size limit because sling bags that are too big can become very uncomfortable to carry long term.

There is a bit of interchangeability between a sling bag and a crossbody bag. However, some are dedicated crossbody bags that only make sense to carry across your body. A sling bag is versatile enough to be carried in several ways that are not just across your body.

Some sling bags can be used as a fanny pack. Some fanny packs can be deliberately carried as a sling bag through modification or sheer determination. It depends on the bag and the user whether a fanny pack can make for a good sling bag.

Decades of experience and deep connections in the everyday carry industry give us a unique viewpoint on the market to inform our product recommendations. We have the depth of information for thousands of products that have come before and an extensive eye on the market to see what's new and trending for each piece of gear. The result is a buying guide that we feel is informative and useful for EDCers of every trade, industry, and budget.

What is Everyday Carry?

Everyday Carry is both the concept of what people carry in their pockets and the process of picking out gear that thoughtfully considers what one wants or needs in their daily life. It encompasses everything from style to preparedness to utility, meaning an entire industry full of valuable tools and essentials to choose from.

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Our team has decades of combined experience in all aspects of everyday men's essentials, from wallets to pens to bags and everything in between, and we know where to find great gear ideas that you may not come across at your local stores or when shopping online. Our expertise in the industry and familiarity with design, materials, and usability help you make more informed choices when it comes to picking up your next piece of gear.

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Top 10 In-Style Best Sling Backpacks for Travel in 2024

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Our process involves independent research, testing (by using it whilst we travel), reviewing, and recommending the best products.  Click here  to learn more about how we arrive at our recommendations.

Sling backpacks are handy and versatile and, for someone who travels light, a real lifesaver.

There are many options and models out there, suited to different uses and types of activities.

Some are made for hikers and campers, others for urban settings, and still others would allow you to conceal a handgun or two.

There are many things to consider when buying a sling backpack.

Keep reading for a buyer’s guide and our reviews of the top candidates for the best sling backpack of 2024.

Click Here to See Our Pick for the Best Sling Backpack for Travel

Best Sling Bag for Travel 2024 Comparison Chart

Below is a comparison chart of our picks for the best sling backpacks; which are mentioned in this article.  

You can then read our sling backpack reviews below featuring some of the best sling bag for travel and home options. 

Our Pick for The Best Urban Sling Backpack  

in our opinion, the best urban sling backpack class overall is the NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag.

This spacious sling backpack is a great option for urban traveling and commuting.

It is big enough to house a smaller laptop computer and all other gadgets and essentials that you might need during the day.

This canvas backpack sports a stylish modern design. The length adjustable strap can be attached to either side of the backpack.

Our Pick for The Best Outdoors Sling Backpack  

In our opinion, the best outdoors sling backpack of 2024 is the OutdoorMaster Sling Bag.

This unisex backpack is made of lightweight yet exceptionally sturdy materials.

The main compartment is among the biggest in its class. The additional pockets and water bottle holder are handy and well secured.

You can wear it on either side, as well as on the back or across the chest. This sling backpack also features sturdy metal zippers, buckles, and D-rings.

Our Pick for The Best Tactical Sling Backpack

The TravTac Stage I Tactical Sling Pack is, in our opinion, the mother of all tactical sling backpacks. It is made of 900D nylon and big enough to conceal large items with ease.

The Stage I bag has molded metal zipper pull tabs and compartmentalized pockets. It is sturdy and resilient and capable of taking a lot of punishment.

Finally, its ambidextrous construction allows you to wear it on the left or the right side.

How to Choose Best One Strap Backpack in 2024

Find below all the info you need in order to be able to choose the right sling backpack for your needs and situation.

What Is a Sling Backpack?

A sling backpack is a backpack with only one instead of two shoulder straps. This may limit the carrying capacity of the backpack toward lighter loads. The material is often nylon, polyester canvas, or cotton.

A sling backpack would have one main opening, perhaps with multiple compartments, and several smaller pockets on the outside. It is not uncommon for a sling backpack to have a mesh water bottle holder.

A great thing about sling backpacks is that you can wear them pretty much any way you want to. All models have adjustable straps that can be attached to either side of the backpack. The standard options include over the shoulder and across the chest. Some smaller models can also be worn as fanny packs around the waist.

Sling Backpack vs. Hiking Backpack

The main difference between a sling backpack and a standard hiking backpacks is in the shoulder strap count. While the sling models have only one, regular hiking backpacks have two.

This means that hiking backpacks can take on heavier loads, especially if they feature frames and other structural reinforcements.

On the other hand, a sling backpack is for when you only want to pack the essentials. A sling backpack, even one that’s made for outdoor activities, can be limited in terms of how much it can carry. Also, sling backpacks and bags are a good option for carry-on luggage if you’re flying.

How to Choose a Sling Backpack

When shopping for a sling backpack, there are several things you ought to take into consideration. First, you should inspect the materials and build quality of each pack on your shortlist. Then, you should look into the backpack’s size and capacity, as well as available pockets and storage options. Finally, you’ll want to consider the comfort and ease of use of each backpack.

1. Materials

Sling backpacks are mainly made of nylon, polyester canvas, and cotton.

By far the most common material in modern backpacks, including sling backpacks. Some tactical models may have 600D, 900D, or even stronger nylon. By the nature of nylon, these backpacks would have some semblance of water resistance.

b) Polyester canvas

While taking a backseat to nylon, polyester canvas is also a popular option. Canvas backpacks can sometimes be rip and cut-resistant. They’ll have to be coated for waterproofing, as canvas is inherently water resistant but not waterproof.

Cotton is the third most popular option. The material is comfortable to wear, breathable, and lightweight. However, it’s also easy to tear and offers poor protection from the elements.

The zippers, buckles, and D-rings are either plastic or metal. You’ll want to look for the latter if you care about high durability, though it’s easier for metal zippers to slip out of alignment. Vintage-style backpacks might have faux-leather details as well.

2. Weight and Volume Capacities

The weight and volume ratings of a sling backpack play a huge role in the selection process simply because you’re going to need something big enough for your needs. If you plan on packing only your phone, wallet, tissues, and such, a small sling bag might be the best option.

On the other hand, if you want to take your tablet or laptop with you, you might also need to pack a power bank, adapter, and other accessories. In such cases, a larger backpack would make more sense.

Finally, if you’re heading into the wild, you might want to go with a larger sling backpack, preferably one with metal hardware and a reinforced lining. The additional storage space would allow you to pack a battery light, extra clothes, a water bottle, and other necessities.

Regardless of the size, it is always a good idea to go with bags and backpacks that have multiple pockets. Concealed pockets are a nice bonus and the perfect place to hold your credit card, ID, phone, and other valuables.

3. Comfort and Ease of Use

When shopping for a sling backpack, you should aim for one that’s comfortable to wear and easy to use. Make sure to check whether the shoulder strap is padded and whether it has mesh on the inner side.

Also check whether the back is designed for heat dissipation and perspiration control. The shoulder strap should be attachable to either side and length adjustable.

Inspect the pockets for accessibility. You shouldn’t have any problems opening and closing them regardless of how you wear the backpack. Also, check whether the pockets are secure or prone to opening on their own. This is especially important if your backpack has vertical zippers.

Top 10 Sling Backpack Reviews

In the section below, you will find our picks for the top sling backpack reviews of 2024. 

Hopefully, after reading this review, you will easily decide which sling is the best fit for you.

1. MOSISO Sling Backpack Review

The MOSISO Sling Backpack is a simple and affordable solution for those who need a basic sling backpack for everyday use. It is compact, made of lightweight materials, and available in a wide range of color options.

This practical and compact backpack is 15.3 inches long, 7.5 inches wide, and 3.5 inches tall. The main compartment is spacious enough to accommodate an iPad Air or a Kindle tablet. It is closed with a sturdy zipper and secured with a plastic top buckle for additional safety.

You can store small items in the front zippered pocket, the non-zippered pocket between it and the main compartment, and a pair of side-mounted mesh pockets. The side pockets can accommodate small water bottles, napkins, and other quick access items.

The sling, like the rest of the backpack, is made of water-repellent polyester. The D-ring and hook are made of sturdy plastic. You can adjust the length of the sling from 18 to 36 inches. Finally, you can carry this backpack on either shoulder or across the chest.

• Water-repellent materials
• Plenty of additional storage areas
• Inexpensive
• Plastic hooks and D-rings

>>> Click here to check the current price on this sling backpack or click the button below.

2. OutdoorMaster Sling Bag Review

This one-strap backpack is lightweight, comfortable, and smartly designed. Moreover, it is very affordable and versatile. If you’re questing for an everyday one-shoulder backpack, you might want to check out the OutdoorMaster Sling Bag.

The OutdoorMaster looks like a typical urban-style sling bag. However, if you look closely you might notice sturdy metal zippers, D-rings, and hooks. This makes it a good choice for one-day outdoors trips. The best thing about it is that you can wear it on either shoulder as well as across the chest.

This backpack is compact and lightweight, tipping the scales at one pound. The entire backpack is made of nylon, including the sling. There’s also a breathable mesh on the back to minimize perspiration.

The main compartment is spacious enough to accommodate a big tablet or a small laptop. There are two smaller zippered pockets in front and one mesh side pocket. There’s also a hidden pocket within the sling for credit cards, money, wallets, and other valuables.

Seven one-tone colorways are available – Teal, Mocha Brown, Gray, Garnet Red, Dark Blue, Black, and Azure Blue.

• Metal D-rings and hooks
• Wearable on the left or the right
• Functional design
• Breathable mesh on the back
• The phone pocket seems like an afterthought

>>> Click here to check the current price on this bag or click the button below.

3. Waterfly Chest Sling Backpack Review

One shoulder sling backpack is a good solution if you want to avoid the hassle of luggage and pack only the bare necessities. If you’re after an ultra-light and compact sling backpack, you should definitely give the Waterfly Sling Backpack a look.

It’s one of the smaller options out there and exceedingly light. The main compartment is 13.78 inches tall in the upright position. Though it can accommodate an iPad without problems, you should be careful not to pack exceptionally heavy items in it.

Owing to its asymmetrical design, those who wear it over the right shoulder should be able to access the pockets without taking the backpack off. On the other hand, lefties may have to take the backpack off to get whatever they need from the backpack.

The entire backpack is made of water-resistant nylon, including the shoulder strap. The zippers and hooks are hard plastic. The backpack’s main compartment has several smaller sections within, though the total capacity is 10L. One smaller front pocket, one bottle pocket on the side, and one phone pocket built into the shoulder strap complete the list of additional storage places.

• Super-lightweight
• Water resistant
• Padded back
• Comfortable
• Could be a bit sturdier

>>> Click here to check the current price on this bag   or click the button below.

4. KAVU Rope Bag Review  

If you’re on the lookout for the convenience of a sling backpack and you also want to stand out from the crowd, you might want to consider getting a rope bag. These bags use ropes for the sling so you’re going to have to do without the sling pocket.

With a KAVU Rope Bag around your shoulder, you’re bound to turn heads wherever you go, especially if you opt for one of the exotic colors. Those aiming at a more conventional look can choose from several one-tone options. Black, blue, teal, orange, and pink are available.

As opposed to the majority of sling backpacks, this rope bag is all cotton. This means that it’s more environment-friendly and won’t make you sweat as much in hot weather. The downside to this is the minimal protection from rain and snow.

The bag has a 20-inch tall main compartment that’s accessible via a vertical zipper at the center of the bag. There are also two additional front pockets for smaller items.

• Lightweight
• Well-made and unique
• Minimal water and snow resistance
• No water bottle pocket

5. Maleden Sling Bag Review  

The Maleden Sling Bag is a very compact sling chest bag. It is made entirely of nylon and very affordable. The bag is great for everyday activities such as commuting, cycling, running, and more. You can also take it with you as your carry-on luggage. That being said, it probably wouldn’t be a good fit for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Both the bag and the shoulder strap are made entirely of scratch-proof nylon. Luckily, the back sides of both are equipped with mesh to improve air circulation and minimize perspiration on those hot summer days. Owing to its urban appeal, the Maleden Sling Bag is equipped with plastic zippers, buckles, and rings.

In terms of storage capacity, it is nothing to write home about, though the main compartment is pretty roomy considering the overall size of the bag. The main compartment can accommodate a small tablet such as an iPad Mini, while the front pocket is big enough for a standard-sized smartphone. There’s also another open pocket in the front and a zippered strap pocket.

Maleden offers this bag in several two-tone colors. The list includes black, green, blue, and purple.

• Good craftsmanship
• Breathable mesh backplate
• Too small for a standard iPad

6. NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag Review

The NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag is one of the larger examples of the kind. It is roomy, lightweight, and very comfortable to wear. Also, it sports some pretty advanced tech, as well as anti-theft features. If you’re up for a modern and stylish sling bag, the Calvas Sling Bag by NeatPack might be the one for you.

This sling laptop backpack is among the best options for urban use and traveling. Owing to its not-so-rugged construction, it might not be the best companion for the trail or camping.

The canvas material is a lot more breathable than nylon and polyester, but the Neatpack bag is not that great at protecting your belongings from moisture.

The backpack is 18 inches tall and 12.5 inches wide in the upright position. The main compartment can easily store an iPad or a smaller laptop computer. It’s divided into several sub-compartments and is accessible via a vertical zipper on the left side.

There are also two smaller front compartments for other important items, both zippered. Finally, there’s a mesh water bottle pocket on the right side and a surprisingly large smartphone pocket built into the adjustable strap.

• Not particularly water resistant

7. Leaper Retro Messenger Bag Review  

Not every single sling backpack has to look like it was lifted off a sci-fi movie. In fact, it is quite refreshing to see a retro-themed model. This sling messenger bag by Leaper is there for those who want a practical sling bag with a dash of vintage styling.

The Leaper Retro Messenger Bag looks a lot like a schoolbag from an old movie or a children’s TV show. It is made of soft and slightly washed canvas with artificial leather details. Keep in mind that despite the metal buckles and rings, it is not meant for hiking and camping trips. Instead, it is a modern sling bag for life in the city or suburb.

The main compartment can easily accommodate a laptop and is accessed via a double zipper. There’s also a smaller pocket on the flap, equipped with a side zipper. If you unfasten the flap and lift it, you’ll see a pair of smaller zippered pockets. Another pair of buttoned side pockets complete the roster of storage options. Leaper offers this bag in a range of retro colors.

• Vintage-style
• Durable buckles and zippers
• Not for the outdoors
• Not weatherproof

8. Telena Small Sling Bag Review 

The Telena Sling Bag is among the finest small bags. It has enough space to store keys. phone, bank cards, passport and more. The main compartment is roughly the dimensions of a letter-sized paper. 

The Telena Sling Pack Bag is made of a PU leather. The bag is lightweight and highly durable. 

There is an anti-theft zipper pocket in the back to keep your belongings secure.

This leather sling bag is the perfect everyday essential. The bag has adjustable straps so you can tighten or loosen the straps to fit your body size.

• Looks great and sturdy
• Can carry everyday essentials
• Good for urban and outdoors settings

9. REEBOW GEAR Tactical Sling Back Pack Review

The REEBOW GEART Tactical Sling Backpack is a rugged 600D polyester backpack equipped with hard plastic zippers, loops, and D-rings.

It’s quite large for a small tactical bag at 12” tall, 9.5” wide, and 6” deep. The main compartment, which is accessible via a sturdy zipper, is big enough to house an Apple iPad, a flashlight, gloves, keys, smartphone, and other essential items.

Additional storage locations include three zippered pockets in front, two at the bottom, and one on top. That being said, this tactical bag doesn’t have a water bottle pocket. A mesh pocket is found on the backplate.

The strap is length adjustable. There are no pockets on the strap. However, it does feature a pair of additional straps to minimize sway as you walk.

• Great for concealed carry
• Plenty of storage room
• Discrete design
• No water bottle pockets

10. Nicgid Sling Bag/Fanny Pack for Men Review

Fanny packs looked like they were done with and left in the past for good, except they’re making a comeback riding on the popularity of modern sling backpacks.

Nicgid’s Sling Bag/Fanny Pack for Men is a hybrid between a sling backpack and a fanny pack.

Surprising for such a small bag/backpack hybrid, the Nicgid has a ton of pockets and storage compartments.

The zippered main compartment is large enough to house an iPad Mini. Up front, there’s a smaller triangular pocket and a tiny buttoned pocket.

Toward the upper side, there are two small zippered pockets. Finally, there’s also a zippered pocket on the back.

The bag and shoulder/waist strap are made of nylon. The strap is adjustable in length and devoid of a pocket. The bag, while durable, isn’t that good at protecting your stuff from the elements. Finally, Nicgid offers this bag in a range of solid and camouflage color options.

• Ample storage options
• Great for urban settings
• Not the best choice for hiking and camping

Verdict on the Best Sling Shoulder Bags

Congrats on making it to the end of our best sling backpack review. Hopefully you should know by now what you are looking for.

If not, we would definitely recommend the KAVU Rope Bag.

It’s very spacious and can hold books in the two main compartments, with an internal and external zip for things like charger cables, smartphones or make-up. 

So, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Further Reading:

• After some more fabulous gear for travel? Click to see our favorite travel items .
• After more travel items for men? Here is our list of the best travel accessories for men .

Why Trust Wanderlust Storytellers

Andrzej Ejmont , an experienced author in the field of travel and lifestyle products, has spent nearly a decade researching and writing on this topic.

Alongside this, he is also a proud father of three children and has traveled extensively with a baby, toddler, preschooler, tween, and teenager.

In his quest to compile a comprehensive list of top travel and lifestyle products, Andrzej conducted extensive research, analyzing critical specifications such as dimensions, comfort level, weight, quality rating, as well as both positive and negative reviews.

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14 Best Travel Sling Bags & Best Sling Backpack Reviews 2023

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If you are on the hunt for the best travel sling bags, then you have come to the right place. This guide takes you through everything you need to think about when purchasing the best sling backpack or the best single strap bag for your next trip.

When it comes to the best sling backpacks, you want them to be both stylish and practical to fit in everything you need for a day of sightseeing.  You want just the right amount of space and compartments to fit in your camera, guidebook, cell phone, and any other items you need. But you don’t want it to be too heavy or bulky.  

This best sling backpack travel guide takes you through everything you need to know to purchase the perfect sling-style backpack.  First up, we will share our top picks, take a closer look at some of the best sling backpacks for travel currently on the market, and then will take you through the various features you need to consider.

Whether you’re after a men’s sling backpack or a women’s sling backpack, both styles are included in this best one strap backpack guide. 

We also look at options for the best small sling backpack and large sling backpack as well as some great choices for those wanting a laptop sling backpack.  So whatever type of one-strap backpack you’re after you will no doubt find it in this guide.

14 Best Travel Sling Bags & Best Sling Backpack Buying Guide

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My Pick for the Best Sling Backpack for Travel

Don’t have time to read my entire best travel sling bag guide?

I just love the Patagonia Atom backpack sling .  This is the perfect size bag for those sightseeing days, with room for all the travel essentials. It has different compartments to keep your items well organized and is lightweight and is designed with ergonomics in mind.

Or keep reading below for more information

Comparison Chart: The Best Sling Backpack for Travel | Best Sling Bags for travel

Check out the table below for a quick and easy comparison of all the sling bags for travel reviewed in this guide.  For further information, keep reading the reviews below.

Patagonia Atom Sling Pack – Best Sling Backpack

The Patagonia Atom sling backpack for men and women is lightweight, functional, and ergonomically designed, making it a perfect travel bag.  This is a sporty-looking sling backpack, and with an 8-liter capacity, it’s a great size for carrying everything you need for a day of sightseeing.

This lady’s or men’s shoulder sling bag has one main compartment as well as two exterior pockets.  On the strap that comes across your body is a cleverly designed stretch mesh pocket that is the perfect size for your cell phone.  

There is also a zippered outside pocket which includes a key clip and enough room for your passport and sunglasses. Also attached to the outside are two adjustable compression straps, great for sliding a towel or rug through for safekeeping.

Inside this sling pack bag, you have plenty of room for all your travel essentials.  There is room for your camera, guidebook, water bottle, and whatever else you need for a day of sightseeing.  There is even a padded tablet sleeve.

The unique teardrop shape of this sling pack backpack ensures that it sits firmly behind your shoulders and is easy to rotate to the front so you can access your items while out and about. 

The bags are also made from durable fabric which features a water-repellent finish. The shoulder strap and back panel also feature breathable mesh pads to wick away moisture and keep you dry in hot conditions.

This Patagonia cross sling bag is a great choice whether you’re after the best sling bag for men or women.  

With its simple ergonomic design and 8 litres capacity, there is plenty of space for all you’re travel essentials.

KAVU Rope Sling Bag | Compact Lightweight Crossbody Bag

For a super lightweight, yet reasonably large sling bag, the KAVU sling backpack is a great option. Coming in a range of great colors and designs, it’s also one of the super fashionable sling bags in these reviews too.

This single shoulder backpack has various compartments to keep your belongings well organized. The one sling backpack has two large vertical main compartments (one with an internal zip pocket) as well as two small external pockets – one zippered and one with a Velcro closure. 

The main compartment is big enough for a tablet or small laptop, but there is no built-in protection.

The KAVU rope sling backpack is made from 100% 600 D polyester, which is perfect as this makes it water-resistant.  These stylish sling bags also feature an adjustable and durable strap that is designed to last for years. 

The strap is soft and won’t dig into your skin, making it comfortable to wear for day after day of sightseeing.  The bag also has a padded bag for additional comfort.

The KAVU rope sling bag is a great simple bag, perfect for your next trip.  Coming in 25 different colors and designs, there is the perfect one to show off your individual style. 

 The KAVU Rope sling bag is also suitable as a sling bag for men or if you’re looking for sling bags for women.

WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Sling Bag Travel Hiking Chest Bag Daypack

Men or women looking for a small travel sling bag, big enough to carry just the essentials during a day of sightseeing should consider the WATERFLY Crossbody sling bag (in size small).  This is a great inexpensive, lightweight sling bag that looks great too.

This small ladies’ or men’s travel sling bag features one main zippered compartment, which allows to store an iPad mini, iPhone Plus size, and other smaller items. There are also two additional mesh pockets where you can store a water bottle. 

There is a hidden earphone hole on the front, as well as a small pouch added to the shoulder strap – this can hold a phone under 7 inches. 

WATERFLY Crossbody sling bag is made of water-resistant material and is perfect for everyday commute or travel days. 

Osprey Daylite Sling Bag

Osprey is well-known for its hiking and travel gear, and this shoulder bag is no different.

All of 6 litres, the Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling Bag is made of breathable material with thoughtful zippered compartments for quick access to your items on the go. 

The interior sleeves help to separate and organize items, and the key clip keeps small items secure inside. Dual zippers allow access to items from all sides. 

The anatomically shaped single shoulder strap is comfortable to wear all day long – on the left or right side. 

It also comes in a variety of colors to choose from. 

BAGSMART Camera Bag | Anti Theft Sling Bag

This is designed as a camera bag and is perfect if all you are after is a small bag to keep your gear, credit card holder, cell phone, and hotel keys.  

The BAGSMART sling bag has a generous and easy opening, along with anti theft zippers and an adjustable padded shoulder strap for comfortable carrying. 

This item is a high-quality bag, made from water-resistant oxford fabric. It has one main compartment which features a compartment to put SD card slots inside, a lens, batteries, and of course the camera body. 

The removable padded dividers are amazing to organize everything inside. I love BAGSMART’s products for my photography gear – they are really good. And this is one of the best camera sling bags out there!

Peak Design Everyday Sling Bag

Peak Design Everyday Sling bag is designed for travel and tech. Made of high-quality and durable nylon material, these bags are weatherproof and offer quick access to everything while keeping things secure and organized inside.

The sling bag has 2 external carry straps and 2 large and 4 small internal pockets for organization. You can easily store your mirrorless camera and a couple of lenses along with photo accessories (like a mini tripod). It can fit an 11-inch tablet as well.

The model featured here is 6 litre, but it is also available in a smaller 3 litre size or a larger 10 litre size. 

Lululemon Athletica Everywhere Belt Bag

If you’re one of these people who love cute travel bags that are functional and versatile then this one from Lululemon may just be what you’re after.  This sling handbag has a lovely simple classic look, perfect for travel.

This is a great size sling backpack for women and men, the perfect size, in fact, to keep all your travel essentials such as your money, cell, and hotel keys while you go sightseeing.  It has a large main compartment, measuring 7.5 x 5 inches, as well as one external zippered compartment. 

Lululemon Athletica Everywhere Belt Bag is technically a belt bag meant to be worn at the waist like a fanny pack, but it is often styled as a small sling bag. It features an adjustable strap, so you can easily wear it around your waist, across the body, or even over the shoulder like an everyday handbag.

For added style, the bag has the Lululemon logo on the front. Coming in a range of different colors such as black, pink, grey and red, this is a very stylish sling bag and will look fantastic with a range of outfits.

For women that want to look the part while traveling and prefer cute sling bags, you really can’t go wrong with this bag from Lululemon.

Fjallraven High Coast Hip Pack Shark

Another belt bag or hip pack that can be worn as a sling bag is this Fjallraven High Coast model.

Lightweight and comfortable to wear all day long sightseeing, at concerts, and festivals this bag is perfect to store your travel essentials like wallet, keys, cellphones, lipstick, and sanitizer. 

The compact size ensures the bag sticks close to your body (in front or on the hip). The material is waterproof and has a large zippered compartment.

It comes in a variety of colors, and the bag is very compact so you can even pack it inside another backpack and use it when attending festivals, etc.

Under Armour Compel Sling Backpack

The Under Armour Compel sling backpack is a popular choice if you’re looking for the best sling bags for men.  Although with its unisex design, it’s just as suitable for women too. It is a large sling pack, better suited to people that need to carry multiple things with them during their travels.

Unlike most the of packs in this best sling backpack review, this backpack is a more traditional rectangular shape (much like your normal backpack).  

The shape is what makes it bigger than most of the packs in this guide (measuring 19x13x6 inches) as well as heavier. With a volume of 19L, you’ll be able to carry a bit in this pack.

Apart from the main compartment which provides loads of space, there is a water-resistant valuables pocket, multiple front zippered pockets, and a stretchy mesh pocket on the side, the perfect size for your water bottle.  

Inside the pack, there is also a soft-lined laptop sleeve (suitable for up to 15”).

This Under Armour sling backpack is made from water-resistant polyester which is great to keep your items protected in case of an unexpected downpour.  

The pack features a large padded and adjustable strap, as well as an adjustable compression strap so you can ensure your backpack is firmly secured. 

If you’re traveling as a couple or with kids, this would be a great choice for the best sling pack, as its large size allows you to carry plenty of essential travel items.  

For those traveling alone, this lady’s and men’s sling bag backpack is probably a bit too large as a day pack but is perfect if you need to carry multiple bulky items or need a bag big enough for say a change of clothes too.

Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover – Hiking Sling Backpack

If you’re after the best sling bag for hiking, then the Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling is one to consider.  

While a standard backpack is usually the better option for hikers, if you’re looking for a sling backpack that can double as a city sightseeing bag as well as a hiking sling bag, this is a great one to consider.

The large main compartment of this hiking sling backpack has a capacity of approximately 9L.   It also includes two external pouches that have enough space for various hiking items such as binoculars, maps, water, or even a small first aid kit.

With its dimensions of 8 x 12 x 6 inches, there is even plenty of space for a tablet or small laptop too.  Both internal and external pockets also contain multiple pockets and dividers to help keep your things well-organized and protected.

These sling packs for hiking feature a large padded shoulder strap that is fully adjustable. The shoulder sling backpack also features side pockets that are ideal for water bottles and a hidden pocket on the back of the pack.

Made from tough polyester, the Red Rock Rover Sling will last through years of traveling torture. It comes in numerous designs and colors and is one of the cheap sling bags in these reviews. 

You really do get a lot for your money with this bag.  This is a great single strap backpack sling for basic hikes and comes in handy for travel days too.   

Leaper Retro Sling Messenger Bag

This Leaper Retro sling messenger backpack is the one for those that want a bag that looks great while still being practical and functional.  

Coming in a multitude of colors and made from soft and durable washed canvas, the Leaper canvas sling backpack is the perfect choice for anyone wanting one of the super cool sling bags on the market.

This canvas sling bag is the perfect size for your travel sightseeing days, and it contains a stack of different compartments to keep your items well organized.  

There is the large main compartment which includes multiple smaller pockets as well as a sleeve big enough for a laptop up to 13 inches.

On the outside of the bag, there is a zipped pocket, a side pocket, and a side mesh pocket perfect for your water bottle. With this bag, there is plenty of room for all your travel essentials, including your camera, travel guide, passport, cell phone, umbrella, water bottle, and more.

Made from soft and durable canvas, unfortunately, this sling messenger bag is not a waterproof sling backpack.  

However, a bonus is that the bag is washable, which is perfect as bags do tend to get dirty and smelly after long trips. This sling backpack also features an adjustable shoulder strap and top grab handle.

Messenger bags have been typically pushed to the male market; however, I think the Leaper Retro Sling Backpack makes a great women’s or men’s sling pack.  It comes in some great colors such as denim, black, pink, and green.

Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger 

If you’re looking to purchase a rugged, durable and large sling pack, that is fully prepared for all weather conditions, the Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is one to consider.  

This is a great choice for anyone after the best hiking sling pack as it has multiple compartments and is designed to withstand a range of weather conditions. 

It is made of abrasion resistant lightweight ballistic nylon material and comes equipped with an anti theft capture system for security. 

The Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is a large bag with a 15L capacity, so there is plenty of space for everything you need, whether that be a day of city sightseeing or a day hike.  

The main compartment includes numerous internal pockets and compartments of all different sizes to help keep your things well organized.  

There are also two medium-sized front zippered pocket compartments as well as a side pocket for your water bottle.  On the side, there is also a pocket that is compatible with a 3L hydration reservoir or just the perfect size for your travel documents.  

This backpack sling also features a large adjustable strap and a front compression strap to keep everything securely in place.  

The backpack is made with durable water and abrasion-resistant external fabric, which is perfect for hiking.

This bag certainly packs a punch with its almost all-weather resistant, lightweight material and the vast array of straps, pockets, zips, and compartments of all different sizes. 

If you’re looking for a sling backpack that will easily double as a bag for your city sightseeing day as well as days when you’re out hiking, the Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is the one to consider.  

Outdoor Master Sling Bag

The Outdoor Master Sling Bag is a fantastic inexpensive sling backpack, with various compartments just perfect for storing all your travel essentials.  It also comes in a stack of great colors and is perfect for both men and women.

This sling bag features one large main compartment (large enough for a tablet or laptop up to 12.5”) as well as two smaller zippered compartments on the front.  

Additional compartments include the side pocket for your water bottle as well as the strap pocket for small items such as loose change. There is also a side pocket built into the back which is perfect for storing any valuables.

Other great features of this backpack sling include the breathable back and shoulder straps to wick away moisture, the adjustable strap, and the top grab handle.

The Outdoor Master Sling Bag is the perfect size bag for travel. It comes with a range of compartments to keep your items well organized, plus it’s lightweight and inexpensive too.  Coming in a range of great colors it’s also ideal for both men and women.

Monos Metro Sling Bag

A very well-made, stylish, and everyday carry pack is this Monos Metro sling bag.

The bag is perfect for over-the-shoulder wear and it comes with water-repellant material. The interior pockets are great for organization and for storing cards, keys, cellphones, and makeup items. 

The hidden length back pocket is perfect to keep your passport secure yet accessible. 

Definitely, a cool and stylish item to wear on your trips. Plus you have options for nylon material or vegan leather sling bags. 

What is a One Shoulder Backpack and Why Use One When Traveling?

First things first – what is a one-shoulder backpack anyway?  Well, a one-shoulder sling backpack is just what it sounds like.  It is a bag designed like a traditional backpack, but it only has one shoulder strap instead of two.  

This shoulder strap is designed to be worn over one shoulder and across the torso. This is why they are also often called crossbody backpacks too.

A sling pack is a great size for traveling; they are slightly smaller than a standard backpack but larger than a handbag, so you can easily fit everything you need inside for a day of sightseeing.  

Your camera, purse/wallet, water bottle, guidebook, cell phone, etc. will easily fit inside and often there are built-in compartments too.

Sure, you could use a traditional backpack to carry around all your things, but a cross-body sling bag is so much more lightweight and less bulky, so it’s not going to weigh you down.  

Plus, I always find the bigger the bag, the more useless stuff I tend to carry with me. 

I also like the added security with a shoulder sling bag as you can easily wear it around the front of your body as compared to a crossbody bag or backpack. 

It’s also much easier to access your items as with a traditional backpack you usually have to stop, take it off your back and then open it to grab your items.  With a shoulder bag sling, just slide it around to the front and unzip it and grab what you need – simple!

What to Consider when Purchasing the Best Single Strap Backpack for Travel 

What makes the best sling bag for travel depends on a few things. To ensure you get the perfect cross-body sling backpack for your upcoming trip, we recommend you consider the factors below. 

Types of best sling bags 

First of all, what type of backpack sling bag are you after?  The main type is just like a backpack with one shoulder strap, but you can also get ones that are more a messenger-style bag or even ones that can also be worn as a fanny pack.

When considering what type is the best sling bag for travel, you need to consider what you are likely to be carrying around with you.  

If you need to carry a tablet or laptop, as well as a large bulky camera, etc., you’re probably going to want an over the shoulder backpack or messenger style as these bags are bigger and usually have dedicated compartments to protect your belongings.

If you’re just after something to keep your cell phone, wallet, and a few other bits and pieces safe while you go sightseeing, then a small sling bag like a fanny pack is the better choice.

Size / Weight

There are various options when it comes to the size of a shoulder sling backpack.  There are big sling bags and small sling pack options, as well as all sizes in between.

As with choosing the type of slingback bag, when choosing the perfect size bag, it’s about considering what you will need to carry with you each day.  

The best sling bags for travel are ones big enough to carry everything you need for a day of sightseeing. What do you plan on carrying in your bag each day?  Will you take a guidebook, a camera, your mobile, wallet, umbrella, and water bottle, for example?

Think about what it is that you are likely to carry with you every single day and ensure the bag you purchase has plenty of room for it all.  

If you’re the sort of person that just leaves the hotel with your phone and coin wallet, then you’re not going to need the same size bag as someone who takes all the things I listed above.

You could also just get a small packable sling bag.  These pack down super compact, and you can pop them in your day bag so that if you happen to do some unexpected shopping, you have a bag to carry your items back to the hotel.

Compartments 

A sling rucksack can come with just one large compartment while others come with a range of compartments designed to keep your things well-organized and protected.  We recommend not going overboard, a few compartments are nice to have but too many, and you’ll forget where everything is.

Look for a single sling backpack with side pockets designed for an umbrella or water bottle.  A sling bag with a water bottle holder is ideal, so water doesn’t get onto your other belongings.  

We also like a small interior pocket to keep my hotel keys in a safe place while I’m out all day sightseeing.

If you plan on traveling with an iPad or laptop, you’ll also want a laptop sling bag that has a special padded compartment to keep your device safe.

Comfort – Guide to selecting best sling backpacks

Once you put all your various items in your travel sling daypack, you may be surprised just how much it weighs. So be sure your travel sling backpack has a padded and adjustable shoulder strap to avoid neck and shoulder strain at the end of a long day of sightseeing or travel.

Waterproof / Water-Resistant

If you’re planning on traveling to a destination that is known for its wet weather or the odd shower it’s well worth considering a waterproof sling bag or at the very least one that is water-resistant.  

Having a waterproof sling pack or even just one that is water-resistant will give you some time to seek shelter and avoid your items inside becoming wet or worse still ruined.

Hope you enjoyed our reviews on the best sling backpack for travel with the best sling bags review. 

Additional Buying Guides and Resources 

• Buying Guide – Best Anti-theft backpacks for travel
• Buying Guide – Best Wheeled Backpacks for travel
• Buying Guide – Best Women’s Daypacks
• Buying Guide – Best Travel Purses for Women
• Buying Guide – Best Travel Jackets for Women
• Buying Guide – Best Travel Blankets for airplanes
• Buying Guide – Best Waterproof Tent 

Disclosure: ToSomePlaceNew is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

Pin: 14 Best Sling Bags for Travel & Best Sling Backpack Reviews

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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The 16 Best Sling Bags for EDC, Travel, and Adventure

A backpack and fanny pack hybrid, these design-minded sling bags keep you ready for urban and outdoor adventures.

Katherine Englishman

Photographer

Photo courtesy The North Face

Field Mag may receive a minor commission from purchases made via affiliate links.

Sling bags. You’ve seen them on the metro, on the trail, in the airport, and virtually anywhere one might tote around the essentials (phone, key, wallet, etc.) in a compact manner. But what exactly is a sling bag? A sling backpack, a shoulder bag, a messenger bag, a crossbody bag, a fanny pack ? Rather than pigeonhole this versatile piece of gear, it’s more accurate to categorize a sling bag as a general style of everyday carry bag instead of a specific type of design. Or better yet, think of it as a hybrid between a backpack and a fanny pack available in a range of shapes and sizes.

Bulkier than the average hip pack yet smaller and more streamlined than your trusted pack , a sling bag has room enough for the bare necessities and then some, which tees it up nicely for commuting, an after-work bike ride, or the perfect minimalist travel bag, not to mention everyday use. No matter the destination, a high-quality sling bag is designed to keep your valuables close and easily accessible so you can be ready for anything.

Here are the best design-minded sling bags for urban and outdoor adventures alike.

The 16 Best Sling Bags for EDC, Travel & Adventure

Hydro Flask Slingback Bottle Pack

Hydro Flask’s version of a sling bag is more of a sling backpack or shoulder bag. It prioritizes hydration (shocker) with enough space for a 32 ounce water bottle, plus five internal pockets and mesh dividers to stash stuff like an iPad. There's a key clip too, and a snug fit and comfy back panel ensure it sits close to the body to stay put so you can move around with ease.

Bellroy Venture Sling 10L Camera Edition

There are near limitless ways to carry a camera around while you're traveling. We've tested most of them, and for full days wandering around foreign locals, there's none better than Bellroy's Venture Sling 10L Camera Edition. The sling has two internal padded dividers that can protect a camera body and two lenses, or even multiple cameras, depending on your setup, and still maintain a low profile that's discreet and comfortable to wear. You can move the dividers out of the way for outings when you aren't taking photos too, and there are plenty of sleeves and pockets inside for accessories and small items. There's also a 9L version of the Venture Sling without dividers if your main camera is your phone.

Price: $175

The North Face Borealis Sling Bag

A shrunken down version of its much-loved Borealis daypack, this lightweight sling backpack slash crossbody bag is for transporting items as big as a laptop or tablet around town and uses the exterior bungee storage system to manage any overflow. There's also a quick-access zippered pocket built onto the strap, which is a handy place to stash your phone when going hands-free during a commute. There's also a mesh pocket inside with a key clip. For a more urban style, check out its cute cousin, the Field Bag .

Fjällräven Kånken Sling

Love Fjällräven’s iconic Kånken ? Wear this smaller version as a cross-body handbag, too. Made with the Swedish outdoor brand’s signature G-1000 fabric, this small sling bag is waterproof, durable, and with its unique patterns designed by artists, it’s as easy on the eyes as it is on the environment.

RAINS Bum Bag Mini

RAIN’s waterproof sling bag has a durable polyurethane coating to withstand moderate weather when you’re running around town. A smooth, matte finish with an attractive sheen gives this functional carry an understated yet modern look. Free shipping, too.

Monos Metro Sling

Maximizing hands-free storage in a minimalistic design, Monos’ chic vegan leather sling bag has one main compartment and three zippered interior pockets to keep things organized, plus a hidden zippered pocket on the back for your phone, wallet, or passport. You can also get it in nylon, and a variety of rich tonal colorways make it suitable for travel and your every day.

L.L.Bean Stowaway Sling Pack

This ultralight and packable shoulder bag is designed with three spacious compartments and an internal stowaway pocket so it packs down into itself when you’re on-the-go. The outer shell is crafted from responsibly-sourced materials and recycled water bottles comprise its ripstop polyester fabric, all at a budget-friendly price.

Moment MTW Fanny Sling 2L

Feature-rich and versatile, Moment’s Fanny Sling is a day bag made to stash small essentials and other precious cargo—a 35mm camera, specifically. Up to seven different adjustment points allows this bag to expand and shrink as needed, for a totally customized fit for every body. It's water-resistant, with a soft interior lining and an included microfiber cloth for cleaning glasses and camera lenses.

Klättermusen Eldner 2.0

Made for climbing, ski touring, hiking, and beyond, this adventure-ready hip pack is durable and waterproof, with toggles designed to attach to any Klättermusen pack. Features include an adjustable webbing strap, cushioned back panel, and bungee cords for strapping down an unneeded layer. If you’re in the market for something equally as technical but more compact, check out their sleek Hrid WP Accessory Bag , too.

Osprey Daylite Sling

From day hikes to days at the festival, Osprey’s versatile crossbody bag slash sling backpack slash travel backpack combines technical features like breathability and durable materials made from recycled polyester in a simple, ergonomic design to securely store your stuff wherever you go. Features include two zippered pockets, one with an internal mesh pocket with key clip. It's also water-resistant.

KAVU Rope Sling Bag

A sling bag before sling bags became cool—and a perennial best-seller—KAVU’s outdoor-centric rope crossbody bag is made to be waterproof and durable with plenty of pockets for storage and functionality. Need a small sling bag? Try the mini sling instead .

Supreme Field Side Bag

The always coveted and on-trend streetwear brand made a timeless sling bag that hits every mark: easily accessible storage in a buckled main compartment, an adjustable shoulder strap, and water resistance for great-looking carry, rain or shine.

Janji Multipass Sling Bag

Utilizing a bungee cord and ultra-adjustable straps, Janji’s run-specific shoulder bag and waist pack is designed to keep close and stay put as you move. Inside, there are multiple pockets, including one for your keys and credit cards, and a pass-through pocket fits a jacket or water bottle. Its wide webbing strap is highly adjustable, and as a bonus, this technical bag has a durable water repellent finish and reflective details for safety.

Patagonia Atom Sling Bag

With eight-liters of storage, this sleek and athletic sling backpack has two parts: one roomy compartment on the back with two large zippered compartments, and a smaller zippered pouch on the front where you can keep small everyday essentials. There's enough space for commuting, but it's a solid choice for hiking or as a travel bag, too. (And don't forget about Patagonia's excellent warranty program, should you need it.)

Pacsafe Metrosafe X Urban Sling Bag

If security is your priority, this crossbody sling bag has everything you need. Features include lockable anti-theft zippers, an RFID-blocking pocket, and a slash-proof Dyneema strap and durable materials throughout. But protecting your valuables isn't all this travel bag is good for—it's made of recycled materials and has PFC-free water resistance, too.

Price: $100

For more fanny pack inspo check out hip bags for travel & everyday outdoor adventures.

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Sling Your Hook: The Best Sling Bags

Lighten up your EDC with these sling bags.

by Molly Wolfe Updated on November 8, 2023

At Luxe Digital, we independently research, review, and recommend products we love and that we think you will love, too. Learn more about how we curate the best products for you .

Like many trends from the ‘90s, the sling bag has had something of a revival. Similar to a backpack, but slung over one shoulder rather than two, they can be a handy, functional, and not to mention stylish, way of carrying all your day-trip essentials.

Inspired by the uber-cool (or, so we thought) trend of wearing your backpack on one shoulder in a contrived attempt at nonchalance, the sling bag is the more comfortable, more practical offspring of this style.

Ergonomically-speaking, sling bags are a win-win. Worn diagonally across your back, the weight is distributed more evenly, making them outperform messenger or tote bags. 

A happy hybrid between full-blown backpacks and less practical shoulder bags, sling bags are perfect to house your essentials for city day trips, long walks or sightseeing. 

Here is the ultimate guide to choosing your new sling bag , so you can wander in style.

The 13 best sling bags

Check our special sling bag buyers’ guide after the list to see exactly what you should pay attention to before purchasing a shoulder backpack.

Ozuko: Best overall sling bag

Stylish, discreet, and practical, the Ozuko sling bag offers pretty much everything you could desire from a sling bag:

Breathable, high-density Oxford fabric, plus boasting anti-theft features, and with a large main compartment in addition to handy smaller ones, the OZUKO sling bag is a great unisex choice.

The cushioned shoulder strap is designed with optimal comfort in mind. Also, the strap includes card pockets for easy access to credit cards, bus passes, or ID.

When you’re traversing touristy areas or transport hubs, security is an understandable concern. Fortunately, the OZUKO features an anti-theft password-coded lock on the main compartment, so you won’t need to look over your shoulder constantly. Of course, if you’re still worried, you can just scooch it around to wear on your front.

This shoulder sling bag is best for: those who desire a secure, stylish bag featuring a veritable toolbox of features that you can comfortably carry anywhere.

Mark Ryden: Best high-end sling bag

The sleek shoulder sling bag by Mark Ryden could be the perfect companion to take to the office, on walks, or as a spare bag for traveling.

With designated compartments for your water bottle , two sleeves in the main pocket for your iPad and Kindle or other must-bring tech devices, plus a passport-sized back pocket and a nifty card holder on the shoulder strap, there’s space for everything you need for a day out.

The 3D breathable sponge back allows for good air circulation.

There’s also a USB port feature, which is great for easily charging devices without the inconvenience of fumbling around for your power bank.

So, if you’re looking for a classic, sporty-chic, high-end sling bag , this could be perfect for you.

KL928: Best value sling bag

When it comes to maximizing bang for your buck, you may need to look no further than the KL928 Canvas Three-Style sling bag.

Super versatile, this can be worn in three ways thanks to the adjustable straps; you can wear it as a chest bag, a small backpack, or as a sling bag , depending on your preference.

The KL928 sling bag offers a cool, unique aesthetic that’s brilliant for those looking to deviate from the classic black styles. Plus, fashion aside, there’s plenty of room in the main compartment for tech, books, and essentials. 

The zipped pockets, with their rustic brass fittings, allow for extra bits and pieces to be stored safely and easily accessible, too.

There’s a handy anti-theft pocket for your wallet , sunglasses , or anything else that could catch the watchful eye of an opportunist.

The Canvas sling bag is best for: those seeking excellent value , combined with a rustic, stylish aesthetic.

5.11 Moab 10 Tactical: Best EDC sling bag

Be boots on the ground-ready for anything with the Moab 10 Tactical sling bag by 5.11 . For everyday carrying that packs a punch with military efficiency, this could be your favorite new companion.

This 5.11 sling bag is excellent for emulating authentic military style, keeping you patrol-ready at all times. Like the daypacks of soldiers across the globe, the Moab 10 promises to house everything you’d need to sustain yourself for a short expedition (or a leisurely day exploring No Man’s Land).  

It’s jam-packed with useful pockets with self-healing zips, including a fleece-lined pocket so your shades can be carried safely. The hydration pocket and a pass-through port solidify the highly-utilitarian aim of this army-style sling bag.

Of course, it features the all-important adjustable cushioned shoulder strap, plus a soldierly multiple compartment interior for fastidious organization that’ll keep any inspecting sergeant appeased.

Nicgid: Most lightweight sling bag

For when you’ve already got enough items to carry, without the extra weight of the bag itself, the Nicgid sling bag could be the bag you’ve been searching for.

The lightweight Nicgid sling bag outdoes its bulkier predecessors by providing featherlight storage , without compromising on capacity. Think of it as kind of like the iPhone to your Nokia 3310 (which, of course, there’s a designated pocket for!).

With a spacious main compartment allowing room for your iPad Mini, mobile phone, or Kindle, there are also four smaller pockets for your other essentials.

This is the sling bag for people who hate carrying sling bags (or any bag!). Made with minimalists in mind, you can cruise along with all your necessities, without huffing and puffing about the inconvenience of carrying a bag.

So, while you’ll likely need a larger sling bag for even the most Spartan of overnight stays, this bag could be perfect for museum trips, casual strolls, or bike rides .

Patagonia Atom: Best travel sling bag

If any brand is synonymous with the Great Outdoors, it’s Patagonia. With function, durability, and comfort at the forefront of their products, the Atom Sling 8L is the epitome of these values.

The ergonomic, single-strap design ensures the pack’s load is carried close to your body for optimal comfort. 

Plus, the sling bag features two inner compartments with room to house your essentials, plus two compression straps for any additional gear you can’t travel without . So, no excuses for bypassing your daily yoga routine when traveling, as you can strap your mat on your bag.

Of course, nowadays, even the most rustic travelers will carry some tech devices. So there’s a padded tablet sleeve for your tablet, and a roomy chest pocket on the strap so you can reach your smartphone for those #instasnaps.

Best for those seeking a dependable, durable sling bag for traveling and long journeys.

Reebow: Best tactical sling bag

The Reebow Gear Tactical sling bag is crafted with adventure in mind. You can pretty much carry ‘everything but the kitchen sink’ in one of these GI Joe-esque sling bags.

The design is ultra-versatile and carries an abundance of different sized compartments, so you can be prepared for whatever your wilderness adventure (or a trip to the park) brings.

You can fill the surplus space with a medium-sized iPad, a smartphone, a small notebook, keys, a water bottle, and powerbank, as well as any other bits you need for your days out.

The adjustable strap, plus the additional smaller straps to reduce sway, promise to have you feeling safe and secure that your bag won’t go MIA.

Th e hardcore military aesthetic of this sling bag is a great perk, exuding camouflage vibes and footsoldier chic.

Best for those who don’t like to scrimp on supplies and are seeking a strong, commander look with their sling bag.

Osprey Daylite: Best small sling bag

The Osprey Daylite shoulder sling could be perfect for the no-fuss minimalists amongst us. With space for your wallet, keys, phone, a water bottle, and maybe a map, you’ll be free to voyage without the burden of lugging around unnecessary possessions.

It may be small, but the mesh interior organizer helps you to maximize that space efficiently. Kind of like a tiny home. Sure, you could have more space. But do you need it for a quick day trip?

The breathable and soft strap material is super skin-friendly, so you might hardly even feel it. With less weight, you’ll move faster and feel freer.

There’s a key clip and a front access mesh compartment for those bits you want to access fast, just pull the bag around to your front for convenient, speedy access.

The Osprey Daylite shoulder sling is best for those who seek a neat, compact sling bag for carrying their everyday essentials.

Under Armour Compel 2.0: Best laptop sling bag

Digital nomads, this one is for you. The Under Armour Compel sling 2.0 is specifically created to safely transport your 15” laptop in its soft-lined laptop sleeve . The fleece lining is a nice touch, and totally safe for tablet screens too, so there’s no need to be concerned about marks and scratches.

The U.A. Storm technology repels water, so you won’t have to worry about being caught in the rain. Plus, there’s a side water bottle pocket and front zip organizational pocket for any extra bits you might need to access quickly.

While it’s made with laptops in mind, the expandable feature allows you to bring things like chargers, or folders and books for the studious types.

Unlike many sling bags, that tend to taper at the top, the Under Armour Compel is rectangular, which does wonders for capacity! You should be able to fit in everything you need for a day at the office, the co-working space, or a beach bar on the Med.

This sling bag is best for those seeking a safe vessel for their precious tech, with extra space for other essentials too.

Tajezzo: Best modern design sling bag

The Tajezzo sling bags geometric polyhedron design is totally space-age, and wouldn’t look out of place on Bruce Wayne. For a sling bag that’s eye-catching, and somewhat outside the box, this could be The One.

The one-piece hard shell casing provides that extra bit of confidence that whatever’s within will stay safe and sound. As you’d expect from such a sturdy piece of kit, it’s waterproof, anti-collision, and wear-resistant . So, as far as unique sling bags go, the Tajezzo boasts a pretty impressive resumé.

Furthermore, the U.A. offers quite the menage a trois of wearability; you can wear it in either typical sling bag style, across your body, or as a shoulder bag. 

A few cool features include the anti-theft pocket (hey, with a bag like that, you’re going to attract attention…) and USB port and built-in USB cable , which are welcome additions to the multi-compartment sling bag.

G4Free: Best waterproof sling bag

If you’re out and about a lot, particularly if you live somewhere blessed (or cursed) with unexpected showers and storms, you’ll need a good, waterproof sling bag to protect your things from the elements.

The G4Free sling bag is made with outdoor sports in mind , and so provides a water repellant armor for whatever you’re carrying inside. 

The lightweight design features a wide, breathable padded strap for optimal comfort, plus a front pocket that allows you easy access to your frequently needed items.

The interlayer compartment inside possesses organized spaces for your iPad mini or iPad Air (or something similarly sized), so you can avoid experiencing a jumbled mess upon opening.

The handy side mesh pocket is large enough for a water bottle or umbrella, too. So, thankfully your journey will be unimpeded by constantly wondering if your water bottle has leaked all over your tech.

This sling bag is best for those who enjoy the outdoors and would like that extra bit of protection from drizzle and rain.

Waterfly Chest: Best budget sling bag

If you want a lovely, versatile sling bag that won’t burn a hole in your pocket, the Waterfly Chest sling could be a great option.

Despite being at the lower end of the price spectrum, the Waterfly sling bag includes everything you could want in a sling bag; an adjustable strap, multiple compartments (the main one is large enough for an iPad), breathable, water-resistant material, and a phone pocket.

The reflective silver gear loops are a welcome addition, allowing you to be seen when you’re out at night time.

Its simplistic, understated, but outdoorsy design totally says ‘I love sports’, and the range of colors allows you to co-ord with your favorite casual or athleisure wear.

The Waterfly Chest sling bag is best for those seeking a reliable, functional sling bag that isn’t too tough on your wallet.

Valentino Garavani: Most expensive sling bag

The ultra-trendy Valentino Garavani Shell-Sling backpack makes quite a statement. The branded strap and brand signatures adorning the bag exude high fashion, while the silver-toned Rockstuds and leather trim render the Valentino logo subtly, yet undeniably luxe.

Be happily hands-free for your travels or commute, blissful in the knowledge your things are nicely organized in the several zip pockets, and lined main compartment.

The strap is adjustable, and the black shell material is comfortingly sturdy , with the slightly oversized zip tags elevating this sling to a higher plane of style.

It’s best for those to whom fashion is of the utmost importance while delivering all the features you desire from your sling bag.

Buyers Guide: What to look for in your sling bag

Whether you’re in need of a sling bag for your extreme sports endeavors, meandering days in the city of hazy beach afternoons, it’s good to know what to look for.

Key features

Of course, sling bags vary greatly in style, but most sling bags worth their salt possess a few key features.

Adjustable straps:

It (hopefully!) goes without saying, we humans come in countless shapes and sizes. As such, you need your sling bag to be adjustable to fit comfortably across your back .

If you’re going to be wearing it for long periods of the day, it is absolutely crucial that the bag is comfortable for you. Make sure that your chosen sling has adjustable straps, so you can tailor it to your size.

Organized compartments:

Despite sling bags exuding cool, carefree vibes, we all crave organization . There’s nothing worse (okay, we exaggerate) than the inside of your bag resembling a department store’s sale section at 10 pm on Black Friday. 

For peace of mind and ease of access, it’s super important that you’re able to go full Monica Geller on your things. Fortunately, most good sling bags feature separate organizers in the main compartment so you can avoid that undesirable hot mess.

Easy to access pocket:

People tend to select sling bags because they’re comfortable and convenient. The icing on the convenience cake is a pocket that is placed on the front part of the strap. 

This small but powerful feature just means you can easily access your phone or credit cards, without hauling your whole bag around.

Many sling bags intended for business or commuting will possess this helpful little feature. Basically, it’s a made-to-measure access point, so you can insert your power bank in the bag, and have your cable plug into your phone or laptop with ease.

If you’ve ever tried to DIY this, you’ll understand the perils of makeshifting a gap in your zip closure in a frustrating attempt to achieve the same effect. 

Large compartments for laptops and iPads:

When you’re looking at sling bags, they will usually tell you the dimensions of the largest laptop/iPad that can fit comfortably inside. 

Seeing as many of us consider our items as essential as oxygen, it’s best to ensure that your own laptop or iPad is within these dimensions to avoid any nasty surprises.

Waterproof, water resistant, water repellent. What’s the difference?

Waterproof materials are, as the name suggests, totally impervious to water. Largely, sling bags are crafted from water-resistant materials, or coated with a Durable Water Repellent layer.

Water-resistant bags will be able to fend off a degree of moisture, around the level of light to moderate rain, but will not hold up well at all if exposed to heavy downpours.

DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings tend to perform better with larger amounts of water exposure. This is the best material (other than entirely waterproof) if you intend to use your sling bag for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, or running.

Essentially, make sure you have an idea of what kind of water protection you need before you go ahead and buy.

Frequently asked questions about sling bags

Sling bags are good for travel. If you’re going on a longer trip, they’re useful to have as an alternative to your bulkier backpack for use as an EDC for day trips. While they typically won’t have enough space for overnight essentials, they’re perfect for carrying everything you need for a day out. Check our round-up of the best sling bags to find the perfect one for you.

Sling bags work best when used to carry daily essentials, such as laptops or iPads, water bottles, wallets, purses, and phones.

Sling bags are popular because they are a great alternative to a briefcase or handbag for men. You can fit a considerable amount inside, and they usually include helpful features like organizers and extra pockets, sometimes with anti-theft technology. As they’re carried on your back, they’re a nice, casual alternative to a full backpack.

As long as you don’t go overboard with the weight of your bag, sling bags are okay for your back. If they’re very heavy, there is the risk of causing ‘one-sided strain’. You can alleviate this by switching sides, however.

About the author

Molly Wolfe

Style & travel editor.

Molly is a luxury travel  and  fashion  writer who has a passion for all things unique, boutique, and design-centric. She loves nothing more than exploring new destinations, shopping in luxury boutiques in the world’s fashion capitals and finding quirky vegetarian restaurants to sample. And writing all about her fabulous finds for  Luxa Terra  and  Luxe Digital .

Learn more about Molly Wolfe

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13 Best Travel Backpacks in 2024, Tested by Our Gear Experts

Featuring brands like Cotopaxi, Peak Design, Nanuk, and more.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Matador seg45 travel pack.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

Patagonia black hole pack 32l.

Most Comfortable Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35 l travel pack.

Best Travel Backpack for Gear Heads

Nanuk n-pvd 30l travel backpack.

Most Balanced Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 30l.

Best Travel Backpack for Active Travelers

Cor surf carry-on travel backpack bundle.

Best Travel Backpack for Long-Haul Nomads

Nomatic 40l convertible travel backpack/duffel.

Best Travel Backpack for Minimalists

Camelbak a.t.p. 26 backpack.

Best Travel Backpack Under $60

Matein travel backpack 40l.

Best Rugged Travel Backpack

Yeti crossroads 35l backpack.

Travel backpacks are a versatile, easy-to-carry luggage pick if you're trying to pack as smart and fast as possible. A travel backpack is also a great choice if you want to bring a bag with you on the plane (instead of a formal carry-on suitcase) to go with a checked piece of luggage. Unlike a regular backpack, a good travel backpack is going to offer a little more size and space (usually between 30 to 40 liters). Most travel backpacks are made to hold at least a few outfits, plus all your electronics and travel gadgets . The generous space helps carry an entire weekend's (or week's) worth of clothes. It can also hold all your flight essentials: your hoodie , plane shoes (great for long flights), travel pillow , headphones , and more.

If you believe you can only carry a significant amount of belongings via a roller bag or duffel bag , think again. All of our travel backpack picks below offer optimized storage with comfortable straps and friendly designs that make navigating your environments that much easier. Ready to see what's out there? Let's dive into the best travel backpacks worth buying in 2024.

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Matador already makes some of the world's coolest, most clever travel gear. Its SEG45 Travel Backpack is no exception. The clamshell-style zipper opens to provide full access to the pocket-free interior. So you can stash everything inside the open-layout interior like a duffel bag (the included carry strap allows for carrying like a traditional duffel, too) if you're a free-wheelin, "I don't need no pockets" kind of guy.

The other option is to pack this bag using the five front zippered pockets, each with a slightly different capacity (together, they total 45 liters). So, for example, you can stash smaller items like your passport, headphones, and snacks in the small top pocket. Larger electronics can go toward the bottom. You get the gist.

There's also a zippered, padded laptop sleeve at the rear, so it sits directly against your back when worn like a traditional backpack. Padded shoulder straps allow for comfortable all-day carry, and they can be tucked away when not in use. An external water bottle pouch and a reinforced water-resistant bottom round out the great features.

Read more: Best Packable Down Jackets

The Black Hole Pack is a tried-and-true favorite among Patagonia fans due to its long-term durability and smart compartment design. The pack holds up to 32L, which is sizable enough for traveling but also small enough for everyday use (if you want even smaller, you can elect to get the bag in a 26L size).

Patagonia designed an external zip-down laptop sleeve that sits on the inside (meaning your laptop would be resting directly against your back) and helps create more open space. Front and top stash pockets are added for storing small goods in streamlined ways that do not impede on the interior storage either.

Now, you do sacrifice a bit of space by opting for the Black Hole Pack instead of a 40L travel backpack pack, but the way Patagonia designs this bag creates an optimized way of fitting clothes, shoes, and more without being too much of a burden to carry. If you're looking for a bag you can use to pair with a checked bag, or if you're looking for a bag that can pull double duty for everyday and outdoor use, then you won't find anything more suitable.

Read more: Best Men's Clothing Brands

Cotopaxi's Allpa is a frequent traveler favorite due to its strong, lightweight material blend of TPU-coated 1,000D polyester and 840D ballistic nylon paneling. Travelers also love this travel backpack due to its booklet opening (like many popular suitcases) and secret laptop compartment on the inside back of the backpack (the laptop sits on your back when carrying). In terms of carrying, the bag has four grab handles so you can move it off your shoulders when you get tired. And to add durability and other cargo add-on options, it comes fitted with YKK zippers, carabiner lash loops, and tuck-away straps.

The Allpa is a do-it-all pack for those who truly want to use their travel backpack as their only bag on the road. The cool part is the Allpa comes in fun colors that are easy to spot on the baggage carousel (assuming you check it ... but you won't because you're better than that).

Read more: Waterproof Hiking Gear

Traveling with serious electronics like digital cameras, lenses, action cameras, tablets, and drones can be nerve-wracking. You want luggage or a backpack that can protect everything for those long-haul journeys. Nanuk's N-PVD line of travel backpacks is purpose-built for just that.

Every bag in the line-up features a well-padded interior that can be reconfigured to accommodate whatever you're hauling. Every removable velcro pad can be flipped, turned, and moved around inside the interior so you can Tetris all your most valuable electronics to fit and protect everything exactly how you want. There's also a padded laptop sleeve and a bonus top pocket that's perfect for smaller essentials you want to keep within easy reach.

"I used the 18L model as my only camera bag on a recent trip to Antarctica," said MH gear writer Mike Richard. "I was able to pack my digital camera, a couple of lenses, a 15" laptop, my GoPro equipment, and a bunch of other must-haves, like snacks and my passport, with room to spare. Plus, the recycled polyester shell held up to daily Zodiac rides, pounding rain, and penguin encounters like a champ!"

Read more: Cool Tech Gadgets

We admit to fanboy'ing over Peak Design, as it seems every product the company reinvents turns to gold. We love the incognito look and simplicity of Peak Design's Travel Backpack. Aside from a top stash pocket, the bag relies on a single zipper that opens out the entire bag. From there, you can add in your clothes and shoes without packing cubes , or you can grab any of Peak Design's matching packing cubes and load in your clothes, electronics and gear.

The inner compartment also holds a padded laptop sleeve that keeps your device tightly secured. Our favorite feature of this travel backpack is the theft-proof zippers, which can be looped into each other when closed and help deter pick-pocket thieves from quickly trying to open up your bag when in crowds.

As far as construction materials, Peak Design went with 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas thanks to its supreme water and abrasion resistance. In terms of comfort, padded shoulder pads, a generous adjustable strap length, and an optional hip belt accessory help limit fatigue, so you can power through long travel days.

The most active travelers demand a lot of their luggage. In most cases, they want their bags and backpacks to pull double duty: They need them to transport everything from A to B on the plane, then haul all their gear essentials around on the beach, the trail, or the slopes. That's where COR Surf's Carry-On Travel Backpack Bundle comes in. The 40L model (it's available in 28L and 40L flavors as well) is roughly the size of a carry-on but way more durable and versatile.

The design opens wide like a traditional suitcase for easy access to everything. This bundle includes a water-resistant toiletry bag and a set of compression cubes to wrangle your clothes, shoes, electronics, and souvenirs on the way home.

The outside is built for all-day wear with wide, padded shoulder straps and a chest strap to help distribute heavier loads. It's built with double stitching all around, so it's ready to go the distance wherever you travel.

We especially like that it's available in a handful of colors, so you can color coordinate with your personal traveler's vibe (if that's your thing). Plus, it's crazy affordable at around $125 on sale.

In the "new era" of next-gen travel backpacks we're currently living in, Nomatic was one of the OG brands to seriously reinvent the game. Its convertible travel bags are still some of our go-to favorites. The 40L option is sized like a traditional carry-on but carries like a duffel or travel backpack. With clever built-in straps, it transitions seamlessly between either carry method, so it's comfy to tote around even on your longest travel days.

It boasts 20 clever features, all targeting the needs of modern nomads. There are plenty of compartments to organize your clothes, shoes, tech, and other gear. A water bottle pocket helps you stay hydrated, and the included laundry bag helps keep your funky clothes quarantined away from your clean threads. It's all wrapped in a rugged, water-resistant tarpaulin material that's vegan-friendly and 100% synthetic.

If you're looking for something a little more streamlined, Nomatic's 30L model has all of the same features in a more compact footprint.

If you're an ultra-minimalist traveler or are just looking for a compact, rugged bag to supplement your carry-on, CamelBak's A.T.P. is just the trick. The 26-liter model is perfectly sized for hauling everything you need and nothing you don't. (It's also available as a smaller, cheaper 20-liter model )

In stark black or pure, undyed white, the exterior aesthetic is about as clean and streamlined as it gets. There are no extraneous pockets or design flourishes—this bag is all business. The interior is accessible either via the top flap (like a traditional top-loading hiking backpack) or through a long zipper topped with a snapped "collar" closure of sorts that almost resembles a zip-up hoodie. It makes accessing the inside way easier than most travel backpacks. The open-concept interior includes a laptop pocket, a water bottle pocket, and several small drop pockets for smaller travel essentials. Outside, compression straps allow you to cinch it all down to the exact size you need, so there's never any wasted space.

One of our favorite features of this travel backpack is the ultra-green manufacturing process. CamelBak touts this as its "first pack to ever earn the highest rating on our sustainability scale. The A.T.P. is made from 100% recycled CORDURA re/cor and creates half the greenhouse gas emissions produced in traditional manufacturing processes." Nice!

Made with water-resistant nylon, this best-selling 40L travel pack promises organization through multiple zippered compartments. Starting from the front of the bag, there are four small zippered pouches, followed by a large zippered compartment for clothes and shoes , and then finished with a laptop sleeve compartment.

At under $60 retail (often less than $40 on sale!), you'd be hard-pressed to find a travel backpack this functional and durable for less. It's true the bag might not have the longest lifespan as others on this list (the zippered compartment design worries us about pockets potentially getting damaged), but in terms of getting solid bang for your buck, it's a great pick.

Yeti brings the design chops from working on the best, most rugged coolers to the world of travel backpacks. The Crossroads 35L is one of the toughest travel backpacks around.

For starters, the outer material of the Crossroads 35L is something you won't see on other travel backpacks. Why? Because Yeti opted for a textured Tuffskin nylon and a strong 700D nylon that's both water and abrasion-resistant. Yeti says it feels more like motorcycle gear, and we agree.

Second, the bag's clamshell opening allows for easy access to the laptop sleeve and for the ability to roll your clothes up and bag them down into the bag tightly. Last is the strength of the zippers, which are waterproof and tough as nails from the outer stash pockets all the way the main compartment zippers.

The only downside some might have is the shoulder pads could be more cushioned, but we found them to provide just enough comfort while stepping through the airport. But, if you're looking for a rugged backpack that's down for whatever, you can't go wrong with this pick.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel - Medium

One of our favorite duffel bags, the North Face Base Camp, also works great as a convertible travel backpack. The straps on the Base Camp might have some of the best paddings you can get, making it that much more comfortable in terms of all-day carry. And as far as materials, the strong 1000D recycled PVC with water-resistant zippers is damn-near-bulletproof, ready to repel any and everything.

Our only gripe about this bag is the interior storage configuration. It doesn't have any special laptop compartments or unique pocket designs: It's a simple, straightforward duffel at the end of the day. But remember, if you ever get tired of carrying this on your back, you can carry it by the hand straps or sling it over your shoulder. So you've got options here.

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Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

Talk about a behemoth! Away's F.A.R. Convertible Backpack is equal parts duffel bag and ackpack. It holds a whopping 45L, which makes all the difference if you want to add another pair of shoes or bring home souvenirs you pick up on your travels.

While you don't have a ton of compartments on the inside of this bag, it does have built-in compression straps, which allow you to clamp down your clothes and keep everything condensed. This travel backpack is made from water- and abrasion-resistant polyester that's strong enough to handle pretty much anywhere unless you're planning on getting far off the path (like a hiking or camping trip, or a trip to somewhere less developed).

While the bag can feel a little heavy on your back if packed to the gills, the good news is you can always convert it to duffel carry. You get the best of both worlds here.

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 Travel Pack

The Porter 46 reminds us a lot of a hiking backpack in looks and in its durable design. It holds a whopping 46 liters, which can be deceiving thanks to the outer clamp-down straps. On the front of the bag is an easy-access laptop sleeve, and on the side are grab handles for briefcase-like carry if your shoulders get tired. If you want to know our favorite features of the backpack, though, it's the U-zip opening design, which allows the user to pack in and access their goods with ease—it's especially easy to get items on the bottom of the bag when the back is laid down and opened.

A couple of qualms include the straps being a bit too narrow, which can cause some discomfort for long travel days. The other is there aren't a lot of stash pockets. So if you like to use those to wrangle your favorite travel essentials, you might want to look for a different backpack design. But if you're looking for a big-time hauler that fits a rugged, traditional hiking backpack design, then this is a solid choice.

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In order to keep up with new new innovations and product releases, the Men's Health editors and writers are continually testing all of the latest packing tools and accessories to make sure our recommendations reflect the top products within the travel space.

When it comes to travel backpacks, our gear enthusiasts in the office tested a total of 30 different travel backpacks over the past two years. We inspected the bags in office first before taking them out on assignments and vacations. Then, after wear and tear, we accessed the condition of the bag and added in our testing notes. Lastly, we considered what each travel backpack does best by applying them to all the different types of traveler needs—like size, versatility, weight, and more.

Read more: How We Test Products

What to Consider When Shopping for a Travel Backpack

There are a couple of features you want to keep an eye on when shopping for a travel-worthy backpack. Overall, your travel backpack should be lightweight, organized, and suitable for the types of travel you typically take. These are the most important considerations.

As mentioned earlier, a good sweet spot for travel backpack capacity is between 30L and 40L. This amount of space usually allows you to pack a couple of outfits and a pair of shoes or allows you to pack all your airplane essentials. Some of the travel backpacks above go up to 45L. We love the generous capacity, but if you go above this sizing, you might be veering away from carry-on size requirements or you might find a bag packed that fully becomes a little heavy on the shoulders.

TSA Carry-On Approved

Pretty much all travel backpacks are TSA-approved for carry-on use. If you're someone who likes to keep a bag under the seat, you'll want to pay closer attention to the exact dimensions and how your bag looks when it's fully packed. Some airlines—especially ultra-budget carriers—are getting mighty strict on baggage size requirements these days.

Outer Materia ls

The good news about our travel backpack picks above is they're all made with some sort of water-resistant material. Most have abrasion resistance too. Aside from looking for these two qualities, most travel backpacks use nylon or polyester blends. A truly tough bag might don an outer material of 500-denier nylon or higher, which is a material grade that ensures the nylon is strong, water-resistant, and tear-resistant—all great features in a travel backpack.

Packing Organization

Last to consider is your personal packing style. The vast amount of travel backpacks on the market has led us to have all sorts of bag openings and packing configurations. Some have lots of compartments (interior and exterior), while some have a single main compartment and only one stash pocket. Most travel backpacks have openings that help you pack clothes down tightly and allow for easy access if you need to get something at the bottom of the bag. A few common bag opening designs include U-shaped zipper openings, suitcase openings, and clamshell openings. There's no one best design; it's all about what's right for you .

How We Selected the Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

We consulted with Men's Health writers and editors on the best travel backpacks and carry-on backpacks for 2024. Experts, including our gear and commerce editor, John Thompson, and gear expert, Mike Richard, reviewed dozens of packs to evaluate their design, performance, durability, and features. We also considered price point, as some travel backpacks promise a better overall value than others. In the end, we decided on these 13 models as our picks for the best travel backpacks worth buying in 2024.

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11 Travel-Ready Fanny Packs That Are Actually Stylish

Once the butt of the joke, fanny packs are back..

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The Utility Pack by Wilderdog is designed for pet owners with a special pocket for a roll of poop bags.

Courtesy of Wilderdog

Acid-washed denim, hair scrunchies, even near-identical remakes of Toto’s chart-topper “Africa": These vestiges of the ’80s and ’90s—all mocked good-naturedly for decades—are now just as fly as Marty and his DeLorean. But they aren’t the only dusted-off remnants of yesteryear now visible. The fanny pack—updated with sleeker style and even some high-tech materials—is back.

Once the pariah of packs, the hip belt has rejoined the mainstream for good reason. “Fanny packs stay in place, and they’re accessible,” says Darlene Fiske, who’s worked with style-forward, luxury travel brands for decades as founder of the Fiske Group . She’s also been wearing a fanny pack for years. (AFAR’s senior commerce editor was another early adopter.) “It’s easy to grab what I need—my car keys, my phone, my money—and I have two hands to multitask.”

Indeed, fanny packs are arguably a near-ideal travel companion for many reasons.

• They facilitate freedom of movement. “Hands-free convenience can be pretty essential at times,” says Jan Lo, cofounder and CEO of accessory (and fanny pack) brand Lo & Sons . “Nobody has time to fumble for their passport in the airport security line!”
• They’re versatile. No longer is the fanny pack relegated to one’s hind-quarters, note our experts. These days, fashionistas wear them as cross-body slings and on different points around the waist. For that reason (and likely because brands are still leery of association with the original moniker), expect to see a range of alternative names on store shelves from hip pack, hip belt, and belt bag to waist pack, bum bag, and even lumbar satchel. But don’t fret; a fanny pack by any other name is just as versatile.
• They keep items within view. After Lo’s mother had items stolen from her backpack, “she wanted to keep her passport and valuables within eyesight, not on her backside,” Lo says. Thus, the fanny pack is a core item in their travel bag lineup—and it should be in yours.
• They force minimalism. While brands make fanny packs in different sizes, they all grant the wearer permission to bring the basics but not much more. “Sometimes you just want to take one or two items when you’re exploring a new town or just running out to grab a quick coffee,” Fiske says. “It’s liberating!”
• They’re gender-neutral. It’s not only those who identify as women or who are built like a boulder (and refer to themselves as its synonym) who can rock the fanny pack . “Men are liking them not just for hiking and other outdoor rec,” says Dan Swansinger, who, along with his wife Grace, owns boutique and sundries supply store Scout’s General in Crested Butte, Colorado. “We are seeing more guys wearing them around town for everyday use and for carrying around essentials when the back pocket of their jeans just doesn’t work to fit everything they need.”
• They’re packable. While bum bags are excellent for hands-free airport navigation, they also take up minimal space in a carry-on or checked bag, Fiske points out. That’s why she always packs a few.

Ready to embrace the fanny pack? Here are 11 of our favorites.

This fanny pack comes in five colors, including Vinson Blue seen here.

Courtesy of Mountain Hardwear

Field Day Hip Pack by Mountain Hardwear

Best overall fanny pack

• Buy now: $35, mountainhardwear.com ; backcountry.com
• Pros: Versatile style, heavy-duty fabric, recycled materials
• Cons: Doesn’t fit the kitchen sink (though that’s kind of the point)

Our top pick for packs to wear on your, well you know, is Mountain Hardwear’s Field Day Hip Pack. It offers the big-enough-but-not-excessive sizing that our experts love. “We don’t have to pack every little thing with us when we go out on an adventure or we’re going shopping,” Grace Swansinger reminds us. “With a fanny pack, I’ve only got this much space. So what do I actually need?”

At four liters (roughly the size of a Chipotle burrito), the Field Day has plenty of room for must-have items like your ID, keys, and a credit card (shove those in the hidden-away interior pocket), as well as a few snacks and even a thin extra layer of clothing. This option also ticks the boxes for comfort (thanks to a padded back panel) and versatility, since it wears well in front, in back, or as a cross-body sling. Mother Nature also approves: The Field Day is made entirely of recycled materials, namely 210-denier ripstop nylon, which is lightweight yet still durable enough to handle the rigors of navigating through TSA or rubbing against rocks on a midtrip hike. As for style, the Field Day keeps things simple with monochromatic offerings like Bright Copper, Vinson Blue, or a straightforward black that allow it to work just as well on a scouting mission to see the Northern Lights as it does flavor-hopping around the Big Apple .

The Waverley 2 hip belt is seen in cognac colored cactus leather here.

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

The Waverley 2 from Lo & Sons

Most versatile hip belt

• Buy now: $126–$176 (was $210–$220), loandsons.com
• Pros: Wearable four ways, urban chic aesthetic, vegan leather option
• Cons: Leather exterior isn’t for rugged pursuits

Fiske recommends choosing a bag in a neutral color to go with multiple outfits. Elevate the look even further with an elegant leather exterior, and you’ve got a hands-free hauler that works well on any occasion. The Waverley 2 from family-first , Asian-owned accessories brand Lo & Sons comes in textured Saffiano leather, buttery smooth Napa leather, and (our favorite) a durable, scratch-resistant vegan leather made from Nopal cactus. The versatile pack comes in a range of Fiske-approved colorways (black, navy, graphite, sienna) with multiple hardware and interior options to mix and match.

Thanks to its two-part adjustable strap, the Waverley 2 can be worn four different ways: from the more casual belt bag and cross-body bag silhouettes to a gala-ready wristlet or shoulder bag. Available in two sizes—8 inches by 5.6 inches and 8.3 inches by 5.9 inches—the bag features an interior zip pocket for can’t-lose items, a handy slip pocket for little must-haves, and an exterior card slot perfect for stashing a hotel key.

This hip pack expands into a backpack when you need even more space.

Courtesy of Fjällräven

S/F Expandable Hip Pack by Fjällräven

Best hip pack for travelers who need extra space

• Buy now: $120, fjallraven.com ; specialized.com
• Pros: Expands to fit even large items, made with ecofriendly fabrics
• Cons: Bulkier size

Planning to hit the trail on your next trip? Fanny packs excel there too. “They are a great option for hikers so that you get to spend your energy on the hike and not lugging around too much weight from a backpack,” Grace Swansinger says. “Larger fanny packs on the market even have room to store a light jacket and have water bottle holders so you know you’ll still be well-prepared for your hike.”

The S/F Expandable Hip Pack by Swedish outdoor brand Fjällräven, a collaboration with the bike gurus at Specialized , is a winner in this realm. Technically, it’s designed for bikepacking (expeditions where you bike from point to point and camp in between), but this 4.5-liter pack works well for bipedal outings too with its two slim water bottle holders, a central compartment big enough to house plenty of snacks, and two slip pockets. It’s also water-resistant, a boon for any unexpected showers, and produced without environmentally detrimental PFCs. But just like Clark Kent, this hip pack has a hidden superpower: A discreet back panel unfolds to create a backpack. So while there are certainly times when a minimal, rugged stuff-hauler fits the bill, if you do need to tote a few extras—a cape and full-body skinsuit, perhaps—the S/F Expandable Hip Pack is ready.

If you run every day—even when you travel—then this fitness-minded hip belt is for you.

Courtesy of Lululemon

Fast and Free Running Belt by Lululemon

Best hip belt for runners

• Buy now: $38, shop.lululemon.com
• Pros: Slim, no-bounce design holds the essentials
• Cons: Only holds the essentials

“As a runner, you don’t want your phone or your keys to fall out of your pocket or get misplaced,” Fiske says. “Having something tight around your waist is helpful. For running, it’s got to be something small.” The Fast and Free Running Belt by Lululemon sits snug against your backside, but it’s made from the brand’s lightweight and fast-drying Nulux fabric, so it won’t feel sticky against your skin.

Since this cummerbund-inspired stuff sack wicks sweat but doesn’t prevent it, Lululemon made sure the Fast and Free Running Belt is machine washable. Reflective hits along the zipper strap keep you visible on predawn and postsunset jogs, while three different sizes ensure you get the perfect, bounce-free fit. Although the belt isn’t made with recycled materials, Lululemon overall is committed to reducing its average freshwater use by 2025 and decarbonizing its value chain by 2030, as outlined in its sustainability initiatives .

The Mountain Waist Pack comes in a variety of fun retro colors.

Courtesy of Topo Designs

Mountain Waist Pack by Topo Designs

Best fanny pack for throwback style

• Buy now: $49, topodesigns.com
• Pros: Retro aesthetic, recycled materials, inclusive brand ethos
• Cons: Long zipper straps create a less streamlined look

Retro style, from neon colors to acid-washed jeans, is cool again. Own it with a two-liter Mountain Waist Pack from Topo Designs—preferably in its hot pink, neon yellow, and black colorway. This everyday carrier features burly YKK zippers, seatbelt webbing strap, and a durable, recycled nylon exterior, ready for rugged outings in the woods and hills—or not. The Denver-based brand champions what it calls the New Outdoor, “an inclusive place that allows us, regardless of who we are, to be both the outsider and the insider, the novice and the pro.” So, whether you wear the Mountain Waist Pack literally on a mountain or just for a postschool hang at The Max, it’s got you covered.

Diaper bags don’t have to be big and bulky.

Courtesy of No Reception Club

The Sidekick by No Reception Club

Best hip pack for parents

• Buy now: $85, noreceptionclub.com
• Pros: Comes with a changing pad, made with recycled materials
• Cons: On the expensive side

With kids aged two years and two weeks, the Swansingers are in the thick of hand-holding across parking lots, dishing out Goldfish at a moment’s notice, and diapers ( so many diapers). “There are definitely times you need the diaper bag, when you need all of the things,” Grace Swansinger says, “but then there are times when you want to go a little bit lighter and you just want to bring the basics like a diaper, some wipes, and a couple snacks. That’s the benefit of a fanny pack.”

New-in-2022 family travel brand No Reception Club heard parents like Swansinger loud and clear. So while its 24-liter Getaway Bag is an innovative backpack with dual entry points and a unique, interior shelf system, the brand also offers the aptly named Sidekick (three-liter capacity) to accompany it. Minimalist in its size, aesthetic, and environmental impact, the recycled polyester Sidekick is thoughtfully designed to hold everything your baby needs to stay fresh and dry. The changing pad is included, and it has enough space to stuff up to a half-dozen diapers, along with some ointment and hand sanitizer. Stick the wipes in the back exterior pocket—we love its magnetic flap closure—and it’s a breeze to swipe and wipe. Don’t stress if a little mess ends up on the fanny pack. Just toss it into the washing machine.

For those not ready to commit to the hip belt, a sling is a close cousin.

Courtesy of Patagonia

Atom Sling Bag 8L by Patagonia

Best overall sling

• Buy now: $65, patagonia.com
• Pros: Ideal for travelers averse to carrying a pack around their waist, thoughtful design, made with sustainable materials
• Cons: Bigger size means it takes up more room in your luggage

Travelers who aren’t quite ready to embrace a true fanny pack can ease into the throwback-turned-comeback trend with the cross-body carry system of a sling. This silhouette also tends to have more storage capacity, something Fiske appreciates on longer outdoor outings near her home in Austin. “Depending on your activity and what you’re doing, you need to upsize from belt to fanny to sling,” she says. “I wear a sling on simple, longer hikes where I might need to carry a pair of binoculars or a birding book or something a little more substantial.”

The Atom Sling Bag 8L from certified B Corp Patagonia has proven to be a favorite among travelers thanks to its trio of pockets—one large central compartment, a second stash pocket, and a stretchy, phone-ready pocket on the strap—and ability to swing smoothly from a back carry system to a more secure front carry system. “It was comfortable, had enough room for a water bottle, and the pockets were easy to access,” says one reviewer who used it on a two-week excursion to New Zealand. “I liked being able to have my hands free and had confidence no one would be grabbing the bag off my shoulder.” Another customer who bought the pack for a European vacation calls it simply “a dream.”

Made with recycled polyester, finished with a PFC-free durable water-repellent coating, and Fair Trade Certified sewn, the Atom comes in a range of colors from sure-to-make-you-smile Shine Yellow to a more refined Sequoia Red.

This sling looks good during the day and night.

Courtesy of Kedzie

Sunset Sling by Kedzie

Best sling with budget-friendly style

• Buy now: $50, kedzie.com
• Pros: Dressy exterior, interchangeable straps go with different outfits and occasions
• Cons: Vegan leather isn’t made with sustainable materials

For long days wandering through the City of Light or window shopping in Milan , you need a pack with slick, urban styling. Yet you still want enough storage capacity to avoid having to backtrack to the hotel. The Sunset Sling by Kedzie—with its leather-esque exterior, hits of gold hardware, and 6-inch-by-9.2-inch sizing—is just the thing.

Equipped with two primary pockets, plus interior and exterior slip pockets, the Sunset has space for the essentials plus room for a small souvenir or two. And while it comes with a simple black strap (55 inches when fully extended), users can let their personality shine with alternate options like a bold cheetah print or flowery pattern (sold separately).

With separate pockets for treats and poop bags, this fanny pack is a must for dog parents.

Utility Pack by Wilderdog

Best hip pack for dog owners

• Buy now: $36, wilderdog.com
• Pros: Thoughtful design, help a shelter dog with purchase
• Cons: Need to pack doggie treats in a separate baggie to prevent odors

With a pair of pups joining the Swansinger’s happy mountain household, they also know a thing or two about dog walking—and dog running and hiking. “When you take them out, you’ve got to have your hands free,” Grace Swansinger says. “This option from Wilderdog would be useful for the poop bag dispenser and stasher bag that is included to store treats.”

Indeed, the canine-focused brand’s 2.5-liter Utility Pack features three separate compartments: one for Fido’s snacks, a second for yours (along with your wallet and phone), and a third ready to fit a roll of poop bags. Stitched webbing along the front of this lifetime-warrantied mini hauler provides attachment points from which to hang your best friend’s additional accouterments (maybe a bowl or pull toy). Best of all, Wilderdog sends a pound of kibble to a rescue shelter in need with every purchase.

The Highwater Hitchhiker fanny pack is completely waterproof and comes in five colors and patterns.

Courtesy of Bote

Highwater Hitchhiker by Bote

Best waterproof fanny pack

• Buy now: $70, boteboard.com
• Pros: Completely waterproof, fun color options
• Cons: Expensive (for its size)

As a brand that specializes in paddleboards , kayaks, and floats like this sweet inflatable chair , Bote (pronounced “boat”) knows a thing or two about beach life, including the age-old conundrum of what to do with can’t-get-wet items like phones and wallets that you likewise don’t want to leave unprotected by your beach bag . That’s why it introduced the Highwater Hitchhiker, a fully waterproof (even when submerged), two-pocket (one primary compartment, plus a small interior mesh pocket) fanny pack. Seven inches by four inches in size, it’s “perfect for keeping all your smaller items safe and dry,” according to one reviewer.

The Twelve Hip Pack is so popular it’s sold out in many colors already.

Courtesy of Herschel

Twelve Hip Pack by Herschel

Best hip pack for kids

• Buy now: $17 (was $25), herschel.com
• Pros: Kid-focused prints, affordable
• Cons: Selling out quickly

Fiske remembers her first encounter with a stylish hip pack was with a pale pink Herschel version. “That brand is very hip,” she says, “So I thought, ‘If they’re making a fanny pack, then it’s got to be in style.’” We love Herschel’s Twelve Hip Pack, a 6.75-inch-by-4-inch carrier that’s just right for pint-sized travelers. Its simple, one-pocket design makes it perfect for pinecones, rhinestones, and any other treasures your little traveler comes across. Though many kid-approved designs like sharks, surfers, and boats have sold out already, it’s still on sale in a graphic floral print.

Best Sling Backpacks for Travel and Everyday

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: June 1, 2023

Home >> Travel Tips >> Travel Gear >> Best Sling Backpacks for Travel and Everyday

Sling bags have become very popular over the last few years. Take a look at our Stylish Fanny Packs and Waist Bag edition to see how versatile a bag that can be slung crossbody is. And, a crossbody bag looks great, especially for travel.

It is also why we are starting to see a lot more backpack designs with convertible straps to change from a conventional two-strap arrangement to a single strap sling bag.

We’ve searched out the best sling backpacks for men and women based on style, quality and functionality.

Table of Contents

Our Top Picks For the Best Sling Backpacks

These crossbody backpacks have been chosen based on the product’s quality, the brand’s quality, and our experience with what to look for in a quality travel bag that is versatile for everyday use. They are also great sling bags in their design; they look good and will work for all kinds of occasions. See individual reviews further on.

• Mouteenoo Sling Backpack – Buy on Amazon
• Sherpani Pike Anti Theft Travel Sling Bag – Buy from REI
• Pacsafe Unisex Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling Backpack – Buy on Amazon || Buy From Pacsafe
• Travelon Urban Anti Theft Sling Bag – Buy on Amazon
• Pacsafe Vibe 325 10 Liter Anti Theft Sling Backpack – Buy on Amazon || Buy From Pacsafe
• Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling Pack – Buy on Amazon || Buy from REI

Sling bags look great, but that’s not all. Fashion statement aside, a quality sling backpack can be more convenient than a traditional backpack. Especially when we are talking light loads such as day packs. A traditional backpack will always be king for heavy loads. A sling backpack allows you to keep your hands free like a backpack but feels less restrictive. A sling backpack tends to have a slimmer profile than a backpack as well. Unlike a two-strap backpack, you can quickly and comfortably swing it into the front position for easy access to gear. This is also a winning situation when in crowds or on transport – you can wear it comfortably in front where you can keep an eye on your bag. A tip we talk about in our anti theft travel gear guide . For lighter loads, sling bags can often be more comfortable. People love crossbody bags for travel; well, the sling backpack is just a snugger, larger take on the crossbody bag. Sling backpacks tend to be favoured in hotter climates as well as they don’t cover the entire back.

Yes. So long as you are not trying to carry heavy loads in them. If you think about the traditional messenger bag and how they can be quite a strain once loaded with laptops etc. A laptop and other personal belongings in a sling backpack will be much more comfortable, especially if you have the strap tightened to fit your body properly. A heavy sling bag that is too loose can prove to be uncomfortable.

A sling bag is more of a backpack-style – a kind of combination backpack and traditional fanny pack but worn short and cross body around the middle torso area. A crossbody bag tends to have a longer strap and sits low near the hip – think ladies’ crossbody handbag or a men’s messenger bag.

TIP: Sling backpacks are especially good camera bags thanks to the ease of access to gear. You don’t have to set your backpack down every time you want to get something from your bag.

These are two great camera sling bags for travel: Pacsafe Camsafe X9 Anti-Theft Camera Sling Pack Mountainsmith Descent Small Camera Sling Pack

What to Look for When Choosing a Sling Backpack

Straps and clips.

Comfort is key when choosing a sling bag. Look for sling bags with padded straps – wider is often better, depending on the size and look you are going for. Make sure adjustment buckles work well, and any clips are sturdy to prevent the bag from coming unclipped accidentally. Also, look at the length of the strap and adjustment length – too long is just as bad as too short. You want a comfortable, snug fit for the best load distribution ( when looking at men’s sling bags, make sure the strap is not going to be too snug).

Comfort and Fit

Comfort and fit are pretty well covered in the shoulder strap design but also look at the size of the bag in relation to your body size. Can it be worn over both shoulders comfortably? This is a big consideration when thinking about comfort.

Size and Configuration

Another aspect of comfort but also practicality is size. Look at the size in relation to what you need the bag for and your frame size. Some sling bags can be pretty large, which is excellent for some situations but cumbersome in others. Conversely, some sling bags might be perfect for a day on the town but too small for travel. Or too small for your frame.

Also, consider carefully the pocket configuration – hidden pockets and easy-access pockets for frequently used items. Will it fit the things you need to carry, such as a tablet or laptop? Or will you need to carry water for hiking?

Anti Theft Features

If you are in the market for any type of backpack, anti-theft features are very important. After all, for the majority of the time, you can’t see your bag when it is behind you, which is why an anti-theft backpack for travel is essential. You need to know what features the bag has and what you think you need.

Some bags will advertise as anti-theft but only have RFID protection– this is the minimum. A good anti-theft bag will have locking compartments, anti slash panels and straps, lockdown mechanisms, and RFID. Look closely at what features each bag has to see if it fits your needs. 

Durability is always a consideration, as is easy care. You want a sling bag that will last and keep looking good. Bags with anti slash panels will be long-wearing, and many are easy to clean. Think about this, especially when choosing any light coloured bag. 

The Best Sling Backpacks for Travel and Everyday

Mouteenoo sling backpack.

If you want a practical, lightweight and low profile sling backpack in the budget range , this is it. The Mouteenoo Sling Backpack has a sleek, modern design but is loaded with features. One of the larger backpacks on our list, the Mouteenoo Sling Bag, has a large capacity with conveniently organised storage pockets, but it is still compact enough to store under the seat when flying. 

A very comfortable sling backpack, this design can also be comfortably swung around to the front as a chest bag. Perfect for crowded situations where you are worried about pickpockets. Although, there is a hidden anti-theft pocket for smaller valuables. 

This bag is very well thought out, from the detachable cell phone pocket to a separate laptop sleeve that can take a 15″ laptop. There are also thoughtful pockets, such as the quick grab zipper pouch on the belt for keys and smaller items and a mesh water bottle holder. 

Key Features

• Sleek, modern design
• Large capacity
• Separate sleeve for a laptop up to 15″ and a large detachable smartphone pocket. 
• Hidden anti-theft pocket
• Convenient hip belt zipper pouch.
• Water bottle mesh pouch
• Water-resistant fabric
• Comes in black and grey

The fabric is water-resistant, but the zippers are not, so be aware in heavy rain. But it is in the budget range, so still very durable for the price point.

Sherpani Pike Travel Sling Bag

I’ve been really excited about the Sherpani Brand. The company is founded on an ethos of responsible manufacturing with a strict code of conduct covering labour, social and environmental impact and compliance. But they are also a breath of fresh air in the anti-theft market. 

They have gorgeous modern and practical designs with seamlessly integrated anti-theft features, and their new sling backpack is no exception. 

The Pike Travel Sling Bag is lightweight, comfortable, and versatile. Sleek features such as magnetic buckle flaps for easy access items, waterproof exterior pockets, a jacket pocket, and 10 ” interior tablet sleeve make the bag very functional and a pleasure to use. 

Anti-theft RFID technology is integrated with high-tech fabrics instead of bulky wires, and the body-friendly shape fits comfortably worn on either shoulder. 

This sling bag is marketed as a sling purse for women (one I recommend in my women’s travel essentials guide ), but I think the blue and grey lend themselves to a modern unisex vibe, especially for men who want a smaller day bag. 

• Sustainable manufacturing process
• Durable and waterproof
• Has a 10″ tablet sleeve, water bottle holder, and jacket pocket. 
• Anti-theft features include locking compartments and chair locks, anti-slash features, and RFID blocking.
• Large shoulder strap pocket for quick access to your phone and ID.
• Available in three colours.

See more of our favourite Sherpani bags featured in our Guide to Women’s Antitheft Purses edition.

Travelon Urban Anti Theft Sling Bag

Another leading brand in the anti-theft market, this Travelon sling backpack is a tried and true classic. The Urban Collection Sling Backpacks have style and organisation at the forefront of their design. Travelon’s incredible 5 Point Anti-Theft System integrates seamlessly, so style and practicality are never compromised. 

With multiple storage pockets inside and out, the Urban Collection Sling has an interior wall wallet, so you don’t have to carry a stand-alone wallet. The main compartment has a padded tablet sleeve with an organisation panel. There are slip pockets, a zippered mesh pocket, front and rear zippered quick grab pockets, and the mesh water bottle pocket can be closed when not used.

• Sleek modern design
• Loads of organisation pockets
• 5-Point Anti-Theft Security System :
• Lock-down slash-resistant straps 
• Locking compartments with locking zip pulls.
• Slash-resistant body to prevent slash-and-grab theft.
• RFID blocking pockets 
• Padded tablet sleeve
• Water bottle pocket
• Available in black and slate

This is an eight cubic litre bag, a perfect day pack size. It might be on the small side for those wanting a large backpack to carry laptops, or a large flight carry on. 

Pacsafe Unisex Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling Backpack

From another leader in the anti-theft market, the Pacsafe Unisex Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling Backpack is about as versatile as it gets. You can easily convert this sling bag from a single crossbody strap to dual straps to wear it on both shoulders like a traditional backpack. 

This bag has loads of practical storage features, but the real stand out is Pacsafe’s anti-theft features. 

Locking zippers and lockdown straps, RFID protection, slash-resistant shell and straps, and hidden pockets – the Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling Backpack packs all that into a stylish design. There is also room for an 11″ tablet. Available in three colours. 

• The versatile design can be worn in two ways. 
• Smart locking zippers and cut-resistant materials.
• Cut-resistant anchor strap secures around a fixed object.
• RFID blocking pocket.
• Fits an 11-inch tablet
• Internal organisational pockets, including a hidden pocket for valuables. 
• Phone pocket
• Internal attachment point for wallets and keys

The design of this sling bag is unisex, but I feel it leans a little towards the feminine on the design scale. 

Pacsafe Vibe 325 10 Liter Anti Theft Sling Backpack

If you want a streamlined sling pack design with solid safety features, this deceptively spacious backpack is it. 

This bag is made from recycled PET and designed with city use in mind. You can also wear it comfortably across your front to access things quickly or in crowded situations where you want to keep an eye on things. Although, from a safety perspective, you can feel pretty comfortable knowing the bag has all the Pacsafe anti theft features, including slash-proof shell and straps, locking zips and compartments, RFID protection and a chair lock mechanism. 

Despite the streamlined design, there is plenty of room with two lockable and two internal compartments and a padded sleeve.

• Slim profile with spacious storage space
• Good organizational pockets, including an internal padded sleeve
• Complete anti theft features, including slash-proof shell and straps, locking mechanisms and RFID protection. 
• It can be worn comfortably front or back.
• It comes in various colours and pattern designs depending on where it is purchased. 

The Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack will fit a 13″ laptop but be aware, this is in the main compartment, not in the padded sleeve. The sleeve will take a 10″ tablet. 

Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling Pack

For a no-fuss, versatile day pack that will take you from city to hiking and everywhere in between, you won’t get better than the Osprey Daylite Sling.

I say “no fuss”, but that doesn’t make this bag short on features. 

It’s designed to be carried comfortably on either shoulder using soft, breathable spacer mesh. It’s not loaded with anti-theft features but does have a slash-proof front zip pocket. 

It has convenient dual zips and a small expanding outer mesh pocket for quick-grab items – this is great for hiking. It also has internal organisational pockets. 

At 6 litres, it’s not a big bag. It’s designed to carry day-to-day essentials or gear for short day hikes. 

• A breathable and comfortable strap for left or right over-the-shoulder fit and carry.
• Versatile for city use or hiking.
• Slash proof zippered front pocket.
• Multi organisational interior pockets.
• Stretch mesh pocket in the strap for quick-grab items. 
• Dual U-zip easy access large main compartment.
• Up to 8 colour and design choices are available. 

The Osprey Daylite is a small design that may not suit larger build men. Also, consider if you need to carry a tablet device. There is a suitable internal pocket, but it will not hold an 11″ iPad. 

The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on March 20, 2024 to add the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L — a supremely nice commuter-style travel pack, as well as the Thule Aion 40L and Osprey Archeon 30L .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
• Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
• Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
• Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
• Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 to 35 liters.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

• Capacity 33 L
• Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

• Cheap price
• Available in many different fabric prints
• Unique insulated cooler pocket
• Not many travel-specific features
• Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack ($75) is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. This design has a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe. There’s an organizer pocket that’s perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but they would have been nice for a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does the basics, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

• Capacity 40 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
• Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
• Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

• Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
• External compression straps limit the volume well
• Comfortably padded grab handles
• Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

• Capacity 45 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
• Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
• Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

• Excellent storage organization options
• High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
• No frame to speak of
• Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
• Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
• Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
• Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

• Multiple ways to carry the pack
• Many different storage and internal organization options
• Burly external fabric
• Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and compliments the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack. This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously. “It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

• Capacity 27.5 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
• Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

• Dang good looking
• High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
• Supper cushioned back panel
• Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
• Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions.  And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

• Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
• Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
• Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
• Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the pack. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

• Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
• Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
• Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
• Centered side handle carries well
• Well-cushioned back panel
• No shoulder strap stowage option
• No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”) the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more. 

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps. 

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

• Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
• High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
• Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
• Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
• Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

• Capacity 25 L
• Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
• Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
• Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

• Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
• White interior for easy viewing
• Floating laptop sleeve
• Not very much interior organization
• Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
• Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
• Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

• Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
• Plenty of organizational pockets
• Bright interior
• Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

• Capacity 28 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
• Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

• Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
• Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
• On the heavier side
• TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
• Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
• Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

• Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
• Built to last design and materials
• Removable webbing hip belt
• Suspension doesn’t pack away
• Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check and Arc’teryx Granville packs (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

• Capacity 32 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
• Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
• Material 420-denier recycled nylon

• TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
• Many options for organization
• Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
• Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like it’s all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend-Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30 liter range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 liters, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snuggly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become one of our dedicated laptop toters for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which at 24 liters compressed easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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The Best Crossbody Bags For Travel, Built With Storage And Style

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Roomy enough to carry everyday essentials, the best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your suitcase around. We researched the best crossbody bags for travel that offer both storage and style and selected the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe as our top pick. We also found other great options for different travel styles, like a spacious crescent bag for beach trips and a sleek sling bag for organization.

The best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your ... [+] suitcase around.

A solid crossbody bag is versatile and provides convenient hands-free storage for every situation. This 4-in-1 leather bag from Lo & Sons stylishly transitions from day to night, while Lululemon’s popular Everywhere Belt Bag can be worn on the hip or across the body. Meanwhile, active travelers will get great use out of the Nomatic Navigator Sling , which features a water bottle holder and a stabilizer strap. Below, the best crossbody bags for travel in a variety of price points, styles and materials.

• Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall: MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe
• Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Organization: Aer Day Sling 3
• Best Crossbody Bag For Parents: Hobo Sheila Large Satchel
• Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips: Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips: Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L
• Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel: Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather
• Best Belt Bag For Travel: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1 L
• Best Crossbody Bag For Men: Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack
• Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Crossbody

Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall

Lightweight, stylish storage, mz wallace small sutton deluxe.

Dimensions: 9.8 × 5.5 × 10.20 inches | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Materials: Recycled oxford (polyester, nylon), leather

With a handy key ring strap and five interior pockets, this versatile bag is perfect for staying organized during travel. It can be worn as a crossbody or top handle tote and its water-resistant oxford fabric won’t weigh you down on your journey. There’s an easy-to-adjust nylon strap for a customized fit and the detachable interior pouch is big enough to hold a pair of shoes, plus the ample pockets provide plenty of space for your phone, keys, tickets and more. It weighs only a pound but can fit a surprising amount of items, plus its plush fabric folds down for packing.

Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel

Security features plus many pockets, travelon anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Materials: Polyester, nylon

Travelon’s Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag packs an impressive punch for being so small. Its six pockets keep everything where you need it—including an RFID-blocking passport and card interior organizer—while a tethered key caddy with an LED light eliminates that dreaded “can’t-find-it-in-my-bag” feeling. The 5-Point Anti-Theft security system protects against theft threats with slash-resistant fabric, lockable straps and secure zipper pulls. Not only will you feel safe wearing this bag, but thanks to its 13 colors and prints, you’ll also look stylish anywhere your trip may take you.

Best Crossbody Bag For Organization

A compact sling bag with room to spare, aer day sling 3.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 6 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.8 pounds | Materials: Cordura nylon

With a ballistic nylon exterior and a unique design that zips open for easy access, Aer’s Day Sling 3 is one of the more durable crossbody options out there. It has a 3L capacity that fits a surprising amount of items and its 8 pockets ensure everything stays in its place. There are multiple loops for strapping onto your luggage or storage and a handy front pocket with a key leash and cool security features like a secret back pocket. There’s also a sneaky Fidlock clasp that makes it harder for a pickpocket to snatch your bag.

Best Crossbody Bag For Parents

Extra space and storage for the whole family, hobo sheila large satchel.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 14 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Materials: Raffia, leather

For parents or travelers who need to tote a lot of stuff on the go, a larger bag might be in order. Hobo’s Sheila Large Satchel offers nice organizational features and high style points. It’s made of a lightweight woven raffia with leather trim for added durability, plus its six interior pockets, key lanyard and accessible side exterior pocket are perfect for storing smaller items you may need throughout the day. Its main compartment is quite roomy, easily fitting a laptop, kid’s tablet, diaper wipes, snacks, toys, a backup outfit and more. The flexibility of its 3-in-1 styling really stands out—the adjustable strap can be worn as a crossbody, shortened for a shoulder bag or simply removed to transform into a classy top handle bag for a night out after the kiddos go to sleep.

Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips

Large and easy to wear for sandy days in the sun.

Urban Outfitters

Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag

Dimensions: 10.5 × 19.5 × 5.25 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: 100% recycled nylon

A beach bag calls for some pretty specific features: it needs to be durable and water-resistant, it should be big enough to hold bulky towels and ideally, it has a simple shape so sand won’t get lodged in the nooks and crannies. After much research, the Baggu Crescent Bag fits the bill. Its adjustable strap can be worn across the chest or as a tighter-fitting shoulder bag, the large size is roomy enough for a couple towels and a change of clothes and the zippered interior pocket keeps your wallet and keys secure. The quick-drying ripstop nylon is not only recycled, it’s also durable enough to withstand the windiest—and wettest—of beach days. Consider adding a few of Baggu’s fun printed flat pouches for additional organization.

Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips

A durable sling with no detail spared, nomatic navigator sling 6l.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 9 x 4 inches | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Materials: 80% nylon, 20% polyester

Whether you’re hiking, biking or riding the metro, the Navigator Sling from Nomatic offers durability, storage and some impressive features. There’s a water bottle holder that zips away when not in use, a molded EVA back panel for wearable comfort and breathability, a tamper-resistant zipper and tech features like built-in tablet storage, an RFID-blocking pocket for your cards and a cord-pass through for charging your devices in different pockets. If you’re running or moving around a lot, there’s also a stabilizer strap that clips on to keep the sling even more secure to your body. Unlike some sling styles, this bag has multiple zippered storage compartments, the main one opening extra wide for easier access.

Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel

Four ways to wear it.

Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather

Dimensions: 5.6 x 8 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Materials: Nappa, Saffiano or cactus leather

When you’re on the go, sometimes the last thing you want is to ruin the flow of the day by making a pit stop at the hotel to change out a bag before dinner. We like the Lo & Sons Waverley for its inventive versatility that adapts to your needs. The minimal leather design has an adjustable strap that can be worn 4 ways: as a hands-free belt bag, a longer crossbody, a casual shoulder bag or an elevated clutch with (or without) a wristlet. The main compartment is large enough for the essentials and the zippered inner pocket keeps smaller items secure no matter where your day—or night—takes you.

Best Belt Bag For Travel

Hands-free storage in a slim profile, lululemon everywhere belt bag 1 l.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 2 x 5 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: Nylon, recycled polyester

Over 22,500 reviewers agree: the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is sleek, lightweight and versatile enough to be worn just about anywhere your travels take you. It has a water-repellant nylon exterior and one main compartment, three mesh interior pockets for added organization and a back zipper for your phone or cards. Its adjustable strap can tighten for comfortable wearing around your waist or it can be extended as a crossbody sling. With a 1L capacity, this bag is definitely on the smaller side, so you might want to consider their larger 2L size if you need more space.

Best Crossbody Bag For Men

Rugged looks for when you're on the go, cotopaxi coso 2l hip pack.

Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 3 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Materials: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester

This easy-wearing hip pack from Cotopaxi combines an urban rugged look with smart storage solutions. The recycled nylon exterior is durable with a matte TPU coating, making it water-resistant and easy to clean, while a fleece interior pocket stores your phone or other small devices without any scratch risk. There’s multiple grab handles for easy carrying, secure pockets for smaller items and in addition to the main zippered compartment, the exterior front flap pocket can store a rolled-up lightweight jacket when you get warm on the go. G-hooks on both sides can be adjusted for customized storage and it can be comfortably worn as a crossbody on the front or back, or around the waist as a belt bag.

Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel

Three storage sections in a minimal package, quince italian leather triple compartment crossbody.

Dimensions: 7.8 x 9.5 x 3 inches | Weight: 1.54 pounds | Materials: Leather

Quince’s smooth Italian leather crossbody might look simple from the outside, but there’s actually a lot of unexpected storage inside. The bag has three main compartments—two zippered sections flanking one open area that closes with snaps—plus three internal zippered pockets to take your organization a step further. It also comes with two detachable straps that allow for crossbody or wristlet wear. Quince is known for its fair prices and ethical manufacturing process, and if that’s not impressive enough, the brand also offers a generous 365-day return policy.

Sephora’s Spring Sale Is Now Open To All Shoppers—Here’s What Our Editors Are Adding To Their Carts

The best trampolines of 2024, according to our review, why trust forbes vetted.

Our team at Forbes Vetted is comprised of seasoned editors, writers and researchers who not only love travel, but love to shop. We approach all of our travel product roundups with a discerning eye, focusing on quality, value and more, taking the time to assess products so you don’t have to. From the best luggage locks to the best carry-on backpacks , we spend countless hours researching, vetting and testing travel products to bring you the best of what’s on the market so you can make smart and informed shopping decisions for that next big trip or cruise . This story was written by contributor Becky Eaton , who regularly writes fashion, accessory and travel product guides for Forbes Vetted.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve also fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be—the difference is noticeable—and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. But if you think you would struggle carrying this model, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

14 Best Sling Bags for Women to Hold Sightseeing Essentials

Backpacks , Handbags , LUGGAGE

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Practical, versatile, and gaining lots of popularity from a style standpoint, too, sling bags are a travel gem! These women’s sling bag styles will keep your must-have essentials close at hand as you embark on your exciting trips. Take a look!

Best Sling Bag Women Love for Travel

Table of contents.

When you need to have your essentials close by during your travels but want to keep things light and have all the mobility you need, a sling crossbody bag is the answer. Readers love them for sightseeing and say their simplicity, amazing convenience, and versatile-wearing are ideal when on the go. 

Reaching for your phone, passport, wallet, and other must-haves has never been easier. Find the best sling bag for travel that readers absolutely adore!

Looking for the right personal item? Check out these tips and find out the best personal onboard item to take with you!

Best Sling Pack for Travel

Shop: Amazon

Travelon Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Purse

Travelon’s crossbody sling bag for ladies will not only keep things conveniently close by but will keep all your items safe and secure as can be with its anti-theft features! It has a simple, sleek look, and inside, there are plenty of RFID-protected card slots and passport holder, plus a key clip with an LED light. There is even room for a small water bottle. The bag is fully slash-proof, long-lasting, and comfy to wear — however you wear it! 

Readers absolutely adore this Travelon anti theft sling bag ! One says, “It was small enough that it didn’t get too heavy and was easy to carry nice and close. But also big enough to carry all of my essentials. I felt really secure with it! Plus it’s small enough to fit comfortably in another bag.”

We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women, and our readers have voted for their favorite styles. Find out the options they love the most!

Tumi Kileen Women’s Small Sling Bag

Aside from holding the day’s necessities, these Tumi sling packs will add a chic, effortless element to your outfit. Sleek and durable, this nylon and leather sling purse can stay compact or zip open to become a larger bag, giving you extra room! Readers adore Tumi bags for their quality and functional designs, and this sling pack comes with a handy Tumi Tracer for extra protection. 

One traveler says, “Love this bag! It’s the perfect size- I can carry everything I need! The bonus is that it’s gorgeous- perfectly smooth, sleek, and simple. Love it!”

Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in this review !

Hebetag Leather Womens Shoulder Sling Bag

If you’re going for chic, Hebetg has you covered with its sleek crossbody sling bag purse . Made of genuine leather, it has ample room for your smaller travel items. This leather sling backpack is ligh tweight and high-quality and is ready for any and all adventures. 

Plus, they are so easy on the wallet, at under $50, not to mention the astounding amount of different colors and styles to choose from!! One TFG reader says, “I have the Hebetag bags. They’re leather but have sturdy straps and are not expensive.”

Looking for the best travel shoulder bags for women? Here’s are TFG readers’ all time favorite cross body purses for travel!

Shop: Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Women’s Leather Sling Bag

When all you need are the basics, the Lo & Sons leather sling bags for women are a gorgeous pick! Constructed with pretty, textured leather (with a faux leather option available!) that’s both scratch and weather-resistant, it’ll stay looking beautiful over time. The interior offers stellar organization, and you can wear it in four different ways and choose from a small and large size! 

Travelers rave about this womens leather sling bag ! A user shares, “This belt bag was perfect for my trip to Greece . It was always at my side and transitioned perfectly from running around in the airport to slinging it on my shoulder for dinner. It was small enough to not feel bulky on my waist but big enough to fit all the travel essentials (passport, keys, phone).”

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

Away Packable Unisex Waterproof Sling Bag

Away’s Packable chest sling bag will keep things super light and add tons of convenience to your travel adventures. The water-resistant nylon is durable and easy to care for, and the roomy interior features a handy zip pocket. One of this sling back bags standout features is that it folds down into a teeny little pouch, so you can always have it on hand! 

The adjustable strap that you can wear in many different ways (sling, belt bag, crossbody) is yet another great bonus. Choose from six fun colors! 

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom

Fjallraven Kanken Womens Sling Bag  

The Fjallraven Kanken sling backpack for women will not only make the cutest addition to your travel look but will securely hold all you need for a day of travel. The belt strap is adjustable, and there’s also a little top handle for easy grab-and-go carrying. 

With its durable, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean fabric, this travel sling bag for ladies can handle anything from beach trips to theme park rides to day hikes! A reader says, “I use it as a purse/daypack. Love it. It also packs flat in a suitcase. It holds a lot, surprisingly.”

Discover the best ultralight backpacks and add one to your shopping list!

Shop:  MZ Wallace

MZ Wallace Crossbody Nylon Women Sling Bag

If you’re looking for something larger but still just as functional, look to this MZ Wallace Crossbody women sling purse . It’s a spacious option made of travel-friendly nylon with leather trim and has a stylish and contemporary design that’s perfect for city sightseeing. 

This sling purse for ladies is comfy to wear and won’t weigh you down, so there’s more room to pack your travel must-haves! It’d be perfect for storing all your in-flight essentials, too. 

A reader puts it simply, “I love MZ Wallace bags. They’re lightweight but durable, comfy but stylish.” 

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | REI | The North Face

North Face Borealis Ladies Cross Body Sling Bag

The Northface Borealis shoulder sling backpacks offer great organization and lasting comfort in one sporty yet cute package. It offers plenty of packing space, with a sleeve that fits a small tablet or large phone, a mesh zip pocket, a key clip, and a bungee system on the outside. Plus, it’ll keep your gear safe inside its rugged, water-repellent, ripstop fabric. 

With this slingback bag slung over your shoulder, you’ll be able to take on the most intense of outdoor excursions! One reader agrees, saying, “This small, lightweight crossbody pack worked great for hikes in the Adirondacks. Good stability for scrambling over rocks, crossing creeks, and hiking through woods. Just enough capacity to hold essentials and a small water bottle. Highly recommend!”

Shop: Amazon | Walmart

MOSISO Unisex Waterproof Travel Sling Bag

This Mosiso cross body sling is beyond versatile due to its convenient size, great organizational features, and sturdy construction. It’s equipped with a large zippered compartment for a tablet, multiple pockets, and two mesh bags on each side to hold water bottles or an umbrella. Users say these crossbody sling bags hold up well over time and are super comfortable to wear! 

It comes in a huge range of colors, too! A traveler reports, “I love my little sling travel bag . Took it to Mexico , and it was all I needed to carry my essentials. It was very comfortable and can fit more than you think. I loved the color and waterproof material. I highly recommend it for traveling anywhere.”

Find out what we think the best business backpack is for your next adventure!

Sherpani Esprit Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Backpack

Perfectly compact and ultra functional, the Sherpani anti-theft slingback bags have anti-theft technology and comfy straps for carrying around everywhere! The rugged, nylon construction will keep your must-haves safe and sound, plus the sleek-sporty look can go casual to semi-casual in a heartbeat. Wear it through the airport, sightseeing, or on the trails! 

These womens sling bags have a ton of organizational pockets, including a compartment for a water bottle. A reviewer highly recommends them, saying, “I’m a big fan of these. It’s my favorite bag!” 

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

Shop: Lululemon

Lululemon All Night Festival Women’s Slingbag

Readers are constantly recommending Lululemon’s crossbody slings for travel, including the stylish All Night Festival cross body sling bag women’s style . It’s designed to give you tons of mobility while you’re on the go and the water-repellent fabric adds to its functionality. It makes the perfect day bag with a practical size and a sleek look! 

A reader with this over the shoulder sling bag says, “I love it! I feel that my stuff inside is secure, and no one can just slip into it.” 

Our readers love these crossbody phone purses for keeping their devices handy!

Shop: Amazon | Vera Bradley

Vera Bradley Lighten Up Reactive Women’s Sling Back Pack

Stay hands-free and mobile with the Lighten Up Reactive mini sling purses . The fabric is soft and comfy, lightweight, and durable, too. You’ll be able to keep organized with front zip pockets, pen slips, a phone slip, a key ring, and a large hidden zip pocket on the back to hold your valuables securely. 

These cute sling bags are also waterproof and come in a range of unique patterns. A reader says, “Makes a great day bag. It has a zipper pocket on the other side (against my back) where I stash my cash.”

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Osprey | REI

Osprey Daylite Womens Hiking Sling Bag

The Osprey Daylite is a must-have cross body sling bag women love for their active trips! It’ll keep you hands-free and your belongings safe so you can focus on your adventure! It’s water repellent, has multiple zip pockets for organization, and the adjustable strap makes for comfortable and secure wearing.   

A traveler sings the praises of this sling back bag , “This bag is extremely well-built. The materials and workmanship are top-notch. Use it for short hikes, or carry it on a vacation city trek, to the beach, or through the airport to help keep your hands free and your stuff together. It’ll comfortably carry your phone, wallet, keys, a map, and other small personal items.” 

We’ve compiled a list of the best osprey backpacks so you can pick your favorite one!

Shop: Amazon | REI  | Backcountry

KAVU Original Rope Crossbody Sling Bag

KAVU is a longtime reader favorite, and their Original Rope sling bag crossbody is a major winner for all kinds of travel. It’s lightweight yet strong, the rope straps are sturdy, soft, and long-lasting, and it has a super fun look overall! It has multiple pockets, and the interior is roomy enough for a water bottle, camera, and other small essentials. 

A reader loves her KAVU crossbody sling bag women’s style and says, “It’s incredible and so comfortable. It has a very long adjustable strap that makes it easy to adjust depending on what I’m carrying in it. I can wear mine all day. It’s so easy to slide to your front and access the pockets! It has to be one of my favorite bags.”

Best Sling Bags for Travel Comparison Chart

What do you think is the best travel sling bag for ladies ? Share and comment below!

For more women’s travel bags and backpacks, please read:

• Best Travel Day Bag: How to Choose the Right One
• Best Camera Bags for Women to Always be Ready to Take Epic Photos
• Best Messenger Bags for Women: Functional and Adorable Options
• Cute Backpacks for Travel You’ll Want to Wear Everywhere

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We hope you liked this post on the best sling packs for women. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Thanks for the info on sling bags. After reviewing the various bags, I ordered the Travelon Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Purse through your link. It’ll go with me on an upcoming trip to Morocco and Egypt! Woo Hoo!

I have looking for a sling bag for an upcoming cruise. Thank you for the great options and reviews. It helped me make a decision by giving reviews and details. Great information!

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10 Stylish Backpacks That'll Make Traveling a Million Times Easier

Posted: December 12, 2023 | Last updated: December 12, 2023

What makes a travel backpack "perfect" varies from person to person. Maybe you're looking for a well-ventilated backpack for a long hike , a secure style you can wear around a new city without worrying about pickpocketers, or a spacious carry-on backpack to fill up ahead of a flight. No matter what you're looking for, Amazon has options for every traveler and destination, including well-known brands such as Fjallraven, Herschel, and The North Face, as well as smaller ones that need to be on your radar.

To find the perfect travel backpack for you, we rounded up 10 of the best options available on Amazon that are bound to help you stay organized and comfortable on your next adventure. All cost under $100 and have covetable features, such as laptop sleeves, USB charging ports, and water bottle holders. Keep reading to check out our complete list of favorites to zero in on which is best for you and your future travels.

Best Canvas Travel Backpack

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack ($59, originally $80)

Swedish brand Fjallraven's backpacks are synonymous with adventure. This particular one, which has been around since 1978, and is praised for its lightweight fabric that can withstand dirt and wetness and its multiple carrying options, including top handles and adjustable shoulder straps. One of its most unique features is its PE foam cushion to prevent the contents of the backpack from poking against your back. (You can also pull it out when you need to sit and take a break.

Back Travel Backpack With a Laptop Sleeve

Herschel Retreat Backpack ($75, originally $100)

This backpack doesn't just look adventurous, but is purposely crafted for exploration. It has a spacious interior with a padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve, a front storage pocket for small essentials you want quick access to, and padded shoulder straps. One shopper who rated it five stars wrote: "This backpack is awesome. I use it frequently when traveling, and it was an essential when hiking through Europe and Lebanon. It's very well-made, has excellent padding to keep my laptop safe, and I can fit a ton of stuff inside (basically everything for a day of hiking or as an overnight bag)."

Back Compartmentalized Travel Backpack

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack ($30, originally $40)

With over 75,000 five-star ratings and securing the top spot among all backpacks on Amazon, it's clear that this backpack is a favorite, particularly as a great weekender bag. No detail has gone unattended, from its external USB port and built-in charging cable to its laptop sleeve, and water bottle pockets. One shopper wrote that it "makes my life so much easier," adding that it has "plenty of space for everything without feeling bulky."

Best Sling Travel Backpack

Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack ($21, originally $35)

Whether you're running around an amusement park or going on a hike, this sling bag has you covered. You can wear it on your front or back and it has an earphone hole, a water bottle holder, a mesh pocket for an umbrella, and a separate strap pocket. It's small, but fits a lot. Case in point: one shopper wrote that they could "fit a first aid kit and entire spray bottle with fan in the main compartment" and a "phone and sunglasses," in the smaller pocket.

Best Carry-On Travel Backpack

MATEIN Pink Travel Backpack ($42, originally $46)

This streamlined travel backpack is a piece of luggage in its own right. It opens up like a suitcase for easy access to your belongings, and the interior resembles one, too, with a roomy main compartment, and compression straps. It also has an expandable compartment and hideaway shoulder straps so you can easily convert it to a duffel bag.

Best Bungee Travel Backpack

The North Face Women's Jester Commuter Laptop Backpack ($75)

The North Face's winter gear is pretty hard to beat, and so is this backpack. The bungee system on the front isn't just for looks, but also to hold items you want fast access to, such as a map. It's also certified by the American Chiropractic Association, features a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, and can stand upright for easy loading and unloading.

Best Lightweight Travel Backpack

4Monster Hiking Daypack ($19)

It doesn't get much lighter than this travel backpack, made from waterproof and durable nylon. It's a hit for camping and hiking, and one of the coolest things about it is that it can fold up to the size of a wallet for easy storage, and comes with a bag to pack it into. It comes in neutral colors, vibrant hues, and eye-catching patterns.

Best Drawstring Travel Backpack

Under Armour Adult Undeniable Sackpack ($18, originally $25)

This drawstring bag takes things up a notch compared to ones you may have used in the past in terms of durability and features. The zippered pocket on the front is fleece-lined to protect your valuables, and it boasts adjustable cording straps that you can tie for a custom fit. As one shopper put it: "Finally, a string backpack that's durable!"

Best Extra Large Travel Backpack

SHRRADOO Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack ($34, originally $60)

According to passionate Amazon reviewers, this is seemingly the biggest travel backpack you can get your hands on, with 52 liters of space. That means, per shoppers, it can hold at least 50 pounds of stuff without giving the straps any trouble. "I have NEVER had a backpack this durable that was even remotely in the same price range," writes a happy shopper. In addition to the space, it also has a laptop compartment, a trolley sleeve, a password lock, and more.

Best Cotton Travel Backpack

Vera Bradley Women's Cotton Campus Backpack ($63, originally $125)

If you're searching for a classic-style backpack with a playful print, Vera Bradley has got you covered. This specific option is crafted from recycled cotton and includes a laptop sleeve and a mesh pocket for those carrying a tablet. It's equipped with a convenient trolley sleeve that easily slides over your suitcase handle and comes in so many fun patterns.

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Now boarding: your most organized self.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But don’t just take it from me. “Being hands-free while traveling is essential, which is why a backpack is the perfect type of bag to use for all trips,” says Matilda Sandstroem, co-founder and designer at Adventurist Bags . “It will also distribute weight better than a one-shoulder bag, which will be crucial for longer travel days.” Plus, Sandstroem points out that a stylish backpack can double as your day bag once you arrive at your destination and is perfect for housing a light layer, camera, or snacks. (Good luck trying to bring that duffle bag to the Trevi fountain...)

Matching Luggage

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

Bottega Veneta Medium Intrecciato Backpack

Luxury Brand

Rimowa flap backpack large.

Monos Metro Backpack

Fjallraven Kånken Classic Backpack

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Amazon’s Choice

Lubardy travel carry on backpack, 40l.

The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack

Best for International Travel

Tortuga outbreaker backpack 40l.

Best Expandable Backpack

Beis the expandable backpack.

To give you even more insight, I combined my own research with Sandstroem’s and that of the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute to bring you the definitive guide to the best travel backpacks. Whether you’re packing a weekender bag or looking for the best bags on Amazon , here are 15 backpacks that make stellar travel companions.

Away Travel is known and loved for its suitcases—I, for one, swear by the bigger carry-on —so you can bet the brand makes a damn good carry-on backpack, too.

Colors: Garnet, Navy, Black, Coast

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches; height: 17.7 inches; depth: 5.9 inches

Customer review: “I needed a backpack that I could use for business travel that would allow me to really pack it in for international work. This bag has a ton of space and several pockets to keep items organized. I recently returned to the office and find that its great as a daily bag for all of my needs. I even get lunch into the main compartment.”

If traveling in style is a priority for you, more power to you. This leather backpack from Bottega Veneta is the best way to take to show your fellow travelers that you have taste.

Colors: Surf, Space, Mud, Black, Ardoise

Dimensions: Width: 11.8 inches; height: 18.1 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Rimowa is like the Rolls Royce of luggage brands. And in case no one has told you lately, you deserve the best of the best.

Colors: Black, Slate Gray

Dimensions: Width: 14.5 inches; height: 17.3 inches; depth: 6.3

See that pouch on the front? It provides the perfect amount of extra storage for easy access to necessities and detaches in a snap—literally.

Colors: 10 options

Dimensions: Width: 11.5 inches; height: 16.5 inches; depth: 6 inches

Customer review: “It looks sharp, I’ve already gotten compliments. It is super spacious inside which is perfect for both travel and in a professional setting since it fits everything from spare shoes to my lunch. The compartments actually make sense for organizing.”

Fjallraven: the bag that everyone has, but no one knows how to pronounce. While these bags don’t offer much in the way of organization or storage, they are extremely durable and available in a ton of colors and sizes.

Colors: 27 options

Dimensions : Width: 10.75 inches x height: 14.5 inches x depth: 4 inches

Customer review: “This Fjallraven has been to and all around Japan with me, and recently I started back to University…It’s not too bulky but surprisingly holds a lot.”

Calpak’s Luka bag is an organizer’s dream because it’s chock-full of pockets. This versatile pack is great for everyday use or as a day bag while traveling.

Colors: 13 options

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches x height: 16 inches x depth: 7 inches

Customer review: “This backpack has been great so far! I use it for daily commutes, and it fits my 16” laptop in that compartment with ease. It is also great for being outdoors, got stuck in the rain and my laptop remained dry.”

A waterproof, high-capacity pack + a clamshell opening – an expensive price tag = the ultimate travel backpack.

Colors: Black, Blue, Grey, or Pink

Dimensions: Width: 13.38 inches x height: 20.74 inches x depth: 7.87 inches

Customer review: “Backpacked for 10 days in Greece with this! My friends bought $100+ backpacks, and mine worked just as well for a fraction of the price. I was able to fit a large packing cube with PLENTY of clothes, two pairs of shoes (sandals), a curling iron, a sweater, and my toiletries in this bag!”

The genius product testers over at the Good Housekeeping Institute rated this the overall best travel backpack . As someone who has regularly used this as a carry-on for nearly six years, I’d have to agree. It stands up to the test of time and is great for short trips or as a day bag.

Colors: Lime, Taupe, or Orange

Dimensions: Width: 12 inches x height: 19.5 inches x depth: 6.5 inches

Customer review: “Awesome backpack. Large, spacious, and full of compartments. Suitable for any type of trip, I love it.”

Calling all fellow backpackers and hostel hoppers! If you’re trekking through Europe, or anywhere else for that matter, it’s best to keep your luggage light. This durable, waterproof Tortuga pack is the largest allowed carry-on for international flights, making it perfect for your next adventure.

Colors: Black

Dimensions: Width: 13. 8 inches x height: 21.7 inches x depth: 7.9 inches

Customer review: “Just returned from a two-week tour of Norway and Iceland, five different hotels, four flights. Outbreaker…made it so easy to effortlessly stay on the move…This was our first carry-on-only trip of this length, and I loved the ease of check-in and airport departure it gave us. With the hip belts to carry most of the weight, we did not suffer any back or shoulder strain.”

If there’s one thing for certain, I don’t need another backpack. But after reading the reviews for this Beis bag...I just might have to get one for myself. It has specialized features like an expanding section and a water bottle holder that can be used in or outside the bag.

Colors: Black or Beige

Dimensions: Width: 13 inches; height: 15 inches; depth: 5-7 inches

Customer review: “Love how much room this backpack has! I took it on a trip to Italy and it was light/compact enough to put in luggage but can fit so many things. The design of this backpack is a 10/10 for me.”

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover bags are super popular right now, and with good reason. Fashionable and versatile, they’re perfect for everyday use or as your designated school bag. Plus, Dagne Dover products are made with Repreve technology, meaning they’re sustainable.

Dimensions: Width: 13.25 inches x height: 17.5 inches x depth: 5.25 inches (for large size)

Customer review: “I love this bag and its many pockets and pouches. I can easily organize everything with its numerous zippers, and it stores my laptop perfectly in the back. It’s super light, which is great for a backpack, but thick and good quality with its neoprene.”

Adventurist Backpacks Adventurist Classic

Not only does Sandstroem design these bags with style in mind, but for every backpack purchased, 25 meals are provided for American families in need.

Colors: 7 options

Dimensions: Width: 13.5 inches; height: 15.5 inches; depth: 6 inches

Customer review: “I’ve had this backpack for almost a year now and I have only good things to say! I got the sand color and even through hiking and using it a lot it still looks great! It’s water resistant so I don’t have to worry about bringing my camera, and it’s also super cute and makes my hiking outfits look great! Can’t recommend it enough, if you’re thinking about getting one, do it!”

L.L. Bean Stowaway Pack

The Good Housekeeping Institute voted this pack as the best lightweight bag . If you’re camping, hiking, or just trying to lighten your load, it’s a fantastic option that’s both durable and spacious.

Colors: Gold, Teal, Loden, Navy, or Black

Dimensions: Width: 10 inches x height: 19 inches x depth: 7 inches

Customer review: “Great bag. Love all the pockets, and it’s lightweight. Like how it can roll into a pouch.”

Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack

At first glance, you might underestimate how much this backpack can hold. But don’t be deceived; it secretly holds a ton of stuff. That’s just one of the many reasons the Good Housekeeping Institute rated this Osprey as the best travel daypack .

Dimensions: Width: 11 inches x height: 18.9 inches x depth: 9.45 inches

Customer review: “As a backpack hoarder, I’m always on the search for the perfect functional backpack. I bought the Osprey Daylite Plus to use on vacations where I’d also need to lug my work laptop along. I wanted something that is light enough to use on hikes and will work as a personal item when flying.”

Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack

Business trips shouldn’t be a chore...well, not more so than the actual business part. But packing for business trips definitely shouldn’t be a pain. Allow Timbuk2 to take the hassle out of packing.

Dimensions: Width: 13.4 inches x height: 20.5 inches x depth: 5.5 inches

Customer review: “After using this pack for a couple weeks commuting, I can confidently say that it’s more functional, well designed, and comfortable than any other pack I’ve owned. The materials and build are incredibly high quality, and it sits perfectly on my back without adding strain, even when fully loaded with a laptop.”

.css-1wfsl5s{font-family:SaolDisplay,SaolDisplay-fallback,SaolDisplay-roboto,SaolDisplay-local,Georgia,Times,serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;text-align:center;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:2.375rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:2.375rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:3rem;line-height:1.2;letter-spacing:-0.0225rem;}}@media(min-width: 73.75rem){.css-1wfsl5s{font-size:3rem;line-height:1.2;}}.css-1wfsl5s b,.css-1wfsl5s strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1wfsl5s em,.css-1wfsl5s i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} What to consider when buying a travel backpack

• Size: Don’t just eyeball it based on what size you think you want; the precise measurements matter. Each airline has its own size restrictions for carry-on bags, and these are particularly varied between domestic and international flights. “ Since you may be flying on a lot of different airlines in the future, it may be best to choose the smallest common denominator that way your backpack is sure to fit no matter which airline you travel with,” Sandstroem says.
• Security and durability: “ With most of us carrying around expensive electronics such as laptops, tablets, and camera gear, it’s important to find a backpack that will adequately protect your belongings,” Sandstroem says. “ Whether you’ll be throwing your bag on the ground, storing it under the seat of the plane, or tossing it in the overhead compartment, make sure to look for something that has both front and back padding.” You’ll also want to look for a bag that offers a padded laptop compartment that will fit your device. Some precautious customers might also opt for a bag that includes locks or some other anti-theft mechanisms.
• Weight and material: The more lightweight, the better. “ It may seem like a couple of pounds won’t make much of a difference, but after hours of traveling, you’ll be happy to be rid of any extra weight,” Sandstroem says, noting that materials like polyester or nylon are both lightweight and durable.
• Organization and features: You might find that a bag with an abundance of pockets or separated sections provides more ease of mind. It’s certainly simpler to keep organized. Or, if you’re someone who keeps their belongings grouped in different pouches, you can probably do with a more open-concept bag. Bear in mind any additional features that might make a difference for you, like a key leash, water bottle pocket, shoe bag, or chest straps.

Meet the Experts

Matilda Sandstroem is the co-founder and primary designer for Adventurist Bags. The emerging brand is based in Denver and focuses on minimalist travel bags. For every bag purchased, Adventurist Bags donates 25 meals to Americans in need via non-profit Feeding America.

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Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.

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