Your backpack has a lot to prove. A good everyday carry (EDC) backpack holds your laptop, charger, notebook, headphones, water bottle, and, somehow, the growing collection of things you didn’t plan to bring but can’t leave behind.
That makes the everyday carry backpack a deceptively difficult piece of kit to get right.
We’ve tested more than our fair share, from sleek urban packs that slip neatly into a workday to seriously over-engineered carryalls built for whatever the day throws at you. And after all those miles, commutes, coffee runs, airport dashes, and daily abuse, we’ve learned that the best EDC backpacks have one thing in common: they make carrying your life feel effortless.
The right one needs to be comfortable enough for a full day, durable enough to take a beating, smart enough to keep your essentials organized, and polished enough to hold its own alongside your workwear. In other words, practical without looking painfully practical.
Because this isn’t about finding the backpack with the most pockets or the longest list of features. It’s about finding one that earns its place on your back—and makes everything from the morning commute to the last train home run a little smoother.
Here are the everyday backpacks we’d actually carry.
The best everyday carry backpacks
| Rank | Brand | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bellroy Classic Plus | Best overall |
| 2 | Troubadour Apex | Best for commuting |
| 3 | RIMOWA | Best designer |
| 4 | Harber London City | Best leather |
| 5 | Nike Essentials | Best affordable performance |
| 6 | Bellroy Transit Plus | Best for weekend |
| 7 | Calpak Luka | Best for travel |
| 8 | Hugo Boss Crosstown | Best luxury designer |
| 9 | Nomatic McKinnon | Best for camera |
| 10 | Herschel Heritage | Best for school |
| 11 | AmazonBasics Classic | Best budget |
| 12 | Gucci | Most expensive |
Check our special EDC backpack buyers’ guide after the list to see exactly what you should pay attention to before purchasing an everyday carry bag.
Bellroy Classic Plus: Overall best EDC backpack
The Bellroy Classic Plus is hands down the best everyday backpack out there. It steals the show in all the major categories: durability, useful features, price, and style appeal.
The best part of the Bellroy Classic Plus? It’s designed from the ground up to pack all your daily essentials in a smart and organized way, with dedicated pockets and compartments for everything you need on a regular basis. And it looks good while doing it too. The bag can easily transition from the office to the weekend without ever looking out of place.
Inside, you’ve got the all-important laptop sleeve. It’s placed closest to your back for optimal weight management in a separate laptop compartment with Aquaguard zip access. So your computer is protected from the rain while you’re out and about. There is also a dedicated hidden storage for your most valuable items, such as your wallet, phone, earbuds, and keys, to keep them protected from theft.
The main compartment is roomy and easily accessible, with a strap to keep your water bottle in place.
Our verdict
Outstanding — This is one super functional backpack, which—with its slim profile—also looks effortlessly cool on your back.
Best for: a smart yet feature-heavy backpack certain to make your life easier.
| Size | 24L (19.3 x 12.6 x 7.9 inches) |
|---|---|
| Material | Water-resistant polyester and leather |
| Available colors | A wide range including black, green, and charcoal |
Troubadour Apex Backpack 4.0: Best backpack for commuting
Most commuter backpacks look like they’re still on their way to a lecture. The Troubadour Apex Backpack 4.0 is the one that graduated.
We carried ours through daily commutes, flights, and the ordinary knocks of city life for our hands-on Troubadour Apex review, and it earned its name.
The FortiWeave outer fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles and finished with vegan-leather detailing and YKK zippers keeping every compartment securely closed. It’s water-resistant thanks to a fluorocarbon-free coating, which has comfortably handled our share of drizzle and unexpected showers, although this isn’t the pack we’d choose for an afternoon in a monsoon.
The details are where it wins the commute: an expandable quiver pocket on the left shoulder strap keeps your phone within reach while you walk, and the padded CrashPad Cocoon suspends your laptop rather than simply wrapping it. Our 16-inch MacBook Pro fits comfortably.
Best for: professionals who want one bag that looks right in the meeting and survives the journey there.
| Size | 22L (18.9 x 12.6 x 5.9 inches) |
|---|---|
| Material | Recycled FortiWeave fabric, vegan leather trim, YKK zippers |
| Weight | 2.7 lb (1.22 kg) |
RIMOWA Never Still: Best designer backpack
While your average backpack might be practical and sensible, it can also be a bit boring.
At the other end of the spectrum, you have this RIMOWA Never Still Backpack. Proof—if you needed it—that backpacks aren’t just for school kids and students.
If your usual messenger bag is in need of replacing, and you fancy making a sartorial statement on your daily commute, this backpack is sure to draw some admiring glances. The high quality of both the materials and construction is evident to even the least fashion-savvy observer.
Crafted in Italy with durable canvas and full-grain leather, this thoroughly grown-up and sophisticated RIMOWA designer backpack is pure luxury with flexibility in mind. The interior is big enough to fit all your essentials: phone, wallet, laptop, or tablet. Pair with a smart jacket and designer kicks, and you can turn even the most boring working day into something special.
And because the bag is made by RIMOWA, you know it’s great for traveling too. Available in three different sizes and four different colors, each model comes with a handy strap in the back to fix the bag on your suitcase for your next trip. Check our post on RIMOWA’s Never Still collection to see the other bags from the brand available in soft materials.
Best for: those with a taste for life’s finer things.
| Size | 15.5L (16.5 x 12.2 x 6.7 inches) |
|---|---|
| Material | Canvas, full grain leather |
| Available colors | Black, grey, cactus, saffron |
Harber London City: Best leather backpack
Ok, so utilitarians and street stylists made backpacks cool. But as a slightly more sophisticated sartorialist, you may be struggling to embrace the trend, no matter how practical it may be. Enter: the leather backpack—undeniably elegant and classy but still fashionably functional.
As enthusiasts of this systematically stylish approach ourselves, we’re particularly partial to the Harber London iteration. The family-run business is passionate about honoring quality hand craftsmanship. And this tantalizing leather backpack is not only timeless in aesthetics but also in durability.
The built-in tablet pocket fits a 12.9” tablet with a keyboard attached. Whilst the laptop compartment is carefully designed to fit your 16” laptop. Customizable buckles tailor soft leather straps to your preferred length. While multiple organizational compartments prevent last-minute panics and distressed scrambling. Personally, we use ours everyday. But if you’ve got a trip planned, even more reason to invest in this Harber London leather backpack. Perfect for traveling, it fits into an on-the-go lifestyle whilst simultaneously complimenting your entire case of carefully chosen elegant ensembles.
| Size | 13.6L (16.53 x 11.61 x 4.33 inches) |
|---|---|
| Material | Leather |
| Available colors | Tan, Black, and Brown |
Nike Essentials: Best affordable performance backpack
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly everyday backpack, this functional and high-performance Nike Essentials is your best option this year. As the name suggests, it’s the ideal backpack for your daily hustle.
Nike’s proprietary technology makes this backpack capable of battling all the elements. A next-level water-resistant finish will keep all your electricals and documents dry, no matter how bad the weather gets, while the cushy fabric on the back and the straps helps keep your body cool, so you can arrive at the office sleek and sweat-free.
The bag offers a large laptop sleeve, a dedicated phone holder, and a roomy main compartment. Nike’s branding is discreet, especially in this black-on-black version.
Best for: a wallet-friendly everyday backpack that can survive the most grueling of workdays.
| Size | 18L (21 x 12 x 6 inches) |
|---|---|
| Material | 54% polyester/46% nylon |
| Available colors | Black, dark smoke grey, bordeau, orange. |
Bellroy Transit Plus: Best backpack for the weekend
At the weekend, you’ll likely need a larger backpack to carry more stuff around. Be it an extra set of clothes for a weekend getaway or more gear and food for a long walk in the countryside, whatever the case might be, you need more capacity and more compartments to keep things organized.
This smart Transit Backpack Plus by Bellroy is destined to become your go-to weekend bag of choice. Team with a fresh pair of jeans and a simple t-shirt, and you’re good to go.
Of course, a backpack shouldn’t just look good. It should feel good too. This one fulfills all comfort requirements with extra padding on the back to allow your back to breathe and a sternum strap for added support. It also meets carry-on size restrictions, so you can easily take it with you on the plane.
Feature-wise, the Transit Backpack Plus offers protection for a 15” laptop in a dedicated compartment with easy access when going through airport checks. External-access pockets invisibly store your passport and wallet for extra security.
Inside, a flat mesh pocket keeps your folded shirts crisp. You can easily pack sufficient clothing for a weekend, with an extra pair of shoes and your dopp kit. You’ll also find internal compression straps to help reduce the bulk of your items and keep things in place.
Best for: action-loving individuals who are always ready for the weekend.
| Size | 38L (21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches) |
|---|---|
| Material | Water-resistant polyester and leather |
| Available colors | Black, charcoal, lunar, and marine blue |
Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack: Best backpack for travel
Travel days reward the bag that asks the least of you. The Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack weighs 1.8 pounds, holds 22 liters, and slides over your suitcase handle via a built-in luggage sleeve.
Security is thoughtfully handled, too. A discreet zippered pocket tucked inside the luggage sleeve keeps your passport and cards close to your body and out of easy reach, while a padded laptop compartment fits laptops up to 15 inches. Need more room? There’s also a 17-inch version. Multiple interior and exterior pockets keep the smaller stuff—chargers, keys, sunglasses and the inevitable collection of travel essentials—from disappearing into the depths.
Then there’s the Luka’s signature puffy polyester exterior. Soft, cushioned and scratch-resistant, it feels more like a cloud than a conventional commuter pack. Colors run from matte black and walnut to seasonal shades like pistachio and copper, and a vegan leather version dresses it up for business trips.
Best for: frequent flyers who want a light, secure companion that pairs with their suitcase.
| Size | 22L (16 x 12 x 7 inches) |
|---|---|
| Material | Polyester |
| Available colors | A wide range including matte black, walnut, oatmeal, and chocolate |
Hugo Boss Crosstown Leather Backpack: Best luxury designer EDC backpack
You can’t judge a book by its front cover but you can judge a man’s by his backpack—in our opinion at least. So send out all the right signals with this Crosstown Leather Backpack by Hugo Boss.
This Hugo Boss backpack is a high-end everyday backpack that wouldn’t look out of place in the front row of Paris Fashion Week.
On the smaller end of the spectrum, but still bigger than a sling bag, this luxury everyday carry backpack is an ideal choice for those who only need to transport the essentials: phone, laptop, charger, and perhaps a water bottle.
The full-grain leather is supple and tactile while the padded mesh back provides additional comfort. The straps are adjustable so you can modify as necessary. We recommend teaming with one of the best men’s wallets. Because why stop at one stylish accessory when you can have two?
Keep your head in the fashion game with this exclusive rucksack that will look as good on the way to work in the morning as it does walking into the cocktail bar at happy hour.
Best for: lovers of luxury who are seeking a high-end but practical everyday carry.
| Size | 40 cm x 30 cm x 16 cm |
|---|---|
| Material | Full-grain leather |
| Available colors | Black |
Nomatic McKinnon: Best camera backpack
Are you a professional photographer, ever ready to get that award-winning snap? Or just someone who loves taking photographs, whether of gritty cityscapes or remote wilderness?
Then you need a camera backpack like Nomatic’s McKinnon that can transport all the equipment you need to secure those magazine-worthy pics.
The backpack holds 35 liters but can expand to up to 42 liters. Not only will you be able to store everything from various lenses to a tripod but you can even fit in a change of clothes. Just in case that waterfall photoshoot doesn’t quite go to plan.
You’ve also got laptop and tablet storage space so you can upload your photos as soon as possible and start editing. And there’s quick side access for those moments when you’re suddenly face-to-face with a Nat Geo style photo opp.
Best for: anyone who’s happiest with a camera in their hands.
| Size | 35 to 42L (22 x 13.5 x 9 inches) |
|---|---|
| Available colors | Black |
Herschel Heritage Backpack: Best for school
A reliable backpack is a campus essential. Between lectures and the library, you need something sturdy and dependable on your back. The best student-friendly backpacks are those that are affordable and hard-wearing. The Herschel Heritage is a great example.
Herschel creates good-quality and functional backpacks for the ‘everyday traveler.’ Those always on the go, from dawn till dusk, who need a trustworthy companion to haul textbooks and laptops around for them.
This backpack is strong and durable, able to survive a fair bit of abuse and bad weather. Inside, there’s the brand’s signature striped cotton lining as well as plenty of space for your computer, papers, folders, and even some spare clothes. All without looking overstuffed and bulky from the outside.
It’s simple and straightforward with no fussy extraneous features. It does what it needs to do and does it well.
Best for: students seeking something cool and campus-friendly.
| Size | 18 x 12.25 x 5.5 inches |
|---|---|
| Material | Heavyweight cotton canvas |
| Available colors | A wide range including black, brown, and blue |
AmazonBasics Classic School Backpack: Best budget
You slept through your alarm, couldn’t find your keys, and now you’ve missed your train. Mornings can be stressful. But getting through it all is a little easier if you’ve got a reliable backpack accompanying you out the door. This good-looking backpack from Amazon is the ideal budget workbag.
It’s generous in size—whether it’s carrying your lunch or laptop. A front pocket is ideal for stashing pencils and keys. There are also two Velcro side pockets where you can store a water bottle or anything else you might need in a hurry. The back and shoulders are padded for comfortable cushioning.
Aesthetically, we like the preppy style of this backpack. It’s classic and clean—no-frills and no-nonsense. We recommend black or navy for versatility.
When it comes to accessible prices, this one’s a top contender. With a price tag like that, you really can’t go wrong.
Best for: a budget-friendly backpack to help you juggle the demands of daily life.
| Size | 12.2 x 6 x 15.8 inches |
|---|---|
| Available colors | A wide range including red, blue, and black |
Gucci Monogrammed Backpack: Most expensive
The best men’s backpacks aren’t just workhorses. They’re accessories that can make or break an outfit. The most stylish men’s backpacks can lend your look a bit of functional edginess and create that intriguing man-on-a-mission vibe.
This luxury monogrammed backpack by Gucci is exactly what we mean. With the iconic interlocking double Gs of the Gucci logo stamped all over, this rucksack offers wearers the ultimate fashion-focused daily companion.
Style-wise, this backpack certainly carries the day. Canvas, sleek black leather, and red and navy webbing straps make up the luxury exterior. The color scheme is understated, but this backpack’s high-quality and fashion appeal will hardly fly under the radar.
Swing this over your shoulder, pause for a quick spritz of one of the best men’s colognes, and you’ll be flying out the door. The question is not are you ready for life—but rather, is life ready for you?
Best for: looking catwalk-ready as you go about your day.
| Size | 17.3 x 13.4 x 2.8 inches |
|---|---|
| Material | Coated-canvas and calf leather |
| Available colors | Black and grey |
Buyers guide: how to choose an everyday carry backpack
When it comes to buying an everyday carry backpack, there are a few things to consider and different models to suit different needs.
Firstly, think about what you’re going to be carrying with you on a typical day. Keys, phone, and wallet are the basics. But you might also want to pack things that could come in useful in unforeseen circumstances.
A basic first aid kit, for example, or a flashlight. What about a spare pair of socks in case it rains? Sunglasses are a no-brainer too. Although you should avoid over-packing your bag as this can cause the seams to fail.
Make a list of the gear you need every day—then think about size. Backpacks are measured in inches and liters. Opt for the smallest bag that can still fit all your items. 20 to 24 liters will be plenty for most people.
Padded straps and a padded back panel ensure optimum comfort. A contoured pack distributes the weight so it doesn’t all rest on your shoulders and creates a space between your back and the bag, allowing air to pass through so you don’t get sweaty.
Durability is key. An everyday carry backpack is an investment and should last you a long time. Look for brands with a commitment to high-quality materials and construction.
As for colors and style, versatility is the name of the game. Something you can wear every day, no matter your outfit. Minimalist, sleek, and contemporary is the way to go.
Finally, in terms of features, you want to pay attention to the following:
- Shoulder straps - the wider the straps, the more comfortable the bag. Look for straps that are hard-wearing and not liable to split.
- Padding - this will make your bag more comfortable to carry around for extended periods of time.
- Chest and waist straps - by distributing weight, these lessen the load. They also make it easier to run with your bag if necessary.
- Laptop sleeve - most modern-day commuters will need to bring their laptop with them at some point. Make sure you can store yours inside your backpack safely and securely.
- Elasticated side pockets - these are useful for storing things you want quick and easy access to.
- Water-repellent coating - it doesn’t have to be completely waterproof, but it should be able to survive an accidental coffee spill, for example. Although if you cycle to work, you’ll want something able to withstand the elements.
- Pockets - the more, the better. Pockets and compartments are ideal for organizing and helping to keep your journey friction-free.
- Zips - look for corrosion-resistant zips, especially if you live somewhere coastal where the air is salty.
- Slash-resistant - can it withstand being cut by penknives? It’s an unlikely scenario, but it’s best to be prepared.
- Hidden pockets - you can put your valuables, such as your phone and passport, in these pockets—ideal if you plan to take your EDC traveling with you.
Products featured here are independently selected by our editors. If you buy through our retail links we may earn an affiliate commission — it never changes the price you pay, and it never decides our verdicts. Read our earnings disclaimer.
