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Home » Gear » The Best EDC Backpacks of 2024

The Best EDC Backpacks of 2024

It’s surprising how many people decide to go the cheap route for backpacks they carry every single day. They end up with a product that’s not only uncomfortable but poorly made and which starts tearing at the seams after a few weeks of use.

Whether you’re fed up with having aching shoulders from your current bag, or you travel a lot for work and need something secure to transport your laptop, a good everyday carry backpacks (EDC) are the solution.

We test a TON of backpacks here at The Broke Backpacker so we’ve put together this ultimate guide our favourite EDC backpacks of the year.

Read on to find out what sets these everyday carry backpacks apart and how to select the perfect one for you.

Quick Answer: These are the Best EDC Backpacks of 2024

• #1 – Overall Best EDC Backpack:  Aer Travel Pack 2 Small
• #2 – Best EDC Laptop Pack:  Tortuga Laptop Backpack
• #3 – Best EDC Pack Runner Up – Nomatic Travel Bag 30L
• #4 – Best EDC Sling Bag:  Aer Day Sling 2
• #5 – Best EDC Camera Bag:  Wandrd PRVKE Series Camera Bag
• #6 – Best EDC Backpack for Travel:  Aer Travel Pack 3
• #7 – Best EDC Duffel for the Gym: Kodiak 25l Duffel
• #8 – Best Leather EDC Backpack – Lakeland Fenton Leather Rucksack
• #9 – Best EDC Day Hiking Pack:  Osprey Daylite Plus Pack
• #10 – Best EDC Pack for Organized Travel: Tropicfeel Shell
• #11 – Best EDC Pack for Hipsters: The Roll Top Stubble & Co

Aer Travel Pack 2 Small

• > Main and front zippers are lockable
• > Combination of 1680D nylon, Duraflex plastic, and YKK zippers

Tortuga Laptop Backpack

• > Outer material is a VX21 waterproof sailcloth
• > Laptop compartment is protected with ariaprene foam

Nomatic Travel Bag 30L

• > 20 Cool features
• > Water-resistant materials and zippers

Aer Day Sling 2

• > Three pockets
• > Made out of 1680D nylon, Duraflex plastic, and has YKK zippers

Wandrd PRVKE Series Camera Bag

• > Two sizes are available
• > Made of a waterproof tarpaulin and YKK weather resistant zippers

Aer Travel Pack 2

• > Lay-flat clamshell design
• > Ergonomic and padded shoulder straps

Aer Fit Pack 2

• > Has numerous pockets
• > Well-made and durable

Kodiak 25l Duffel

• > Good carrying capacity
• > Multiple compartments

Osprey Daylite Plus Pack

• > There are two side mesh pockets
• > Hip belt is only simple webbing material

Lakeland Fenton Leather Rucksack

• > Stylish and professional looking
• > Can fit a 13″ laptop

REI Co-op Ruckpack 28

• > Many organisation pockets
• > laptop Sleeve

• > Durable and weather resistant
• > Padded & Fleece Lined Laptop Sleeve

Gulu Made Inspire Backpack

• > Lifetime Guarantee
• > Drop-Safe laptop Pocket

Tropicfeel Shell

• > Packs up easily
• > Fairly priced

Stubble & Co The Roll Top

• > Durable and hardwearing
• > Dedicated laptop compartment/ pocket

Best EDC (Every Day Carry) Backpacks

Researching all the backpacks available on the market can become tedious. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you and compiled our picks for the top everyday carry backpacks. From gym duffels to travel bags, we’ve got something for everyone on this list! And, if you look after your backpack properly , these guys will last you a good few years.

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#1 – Overall Best EDC Backpack: Aer Travel Pack 2 Small

Our pick for overall best EDC backpack is Aer Travel Pack 2 Small

• Price: $229
• Best Use: Travel, urban
• Weight: 3.3 pounds
• Liters: 28 liters
• Rain cover included: No

Compact, but spacious enough to fit a ton of gear, the Aer Travel Pack is the Goldilocks equivalent of everyday carry backpacks; not too big, not too small, just right. A little over 3 pounds, it’s still relatively lightweight, but also more durable than ultralight packs. 

Inside there’s a padded compartment for a 15-inch laptop, as well as a shoe compartment that can fit up to men’s size 12. Both the main and front zippers are lockable for added protection while travelling. 

On top, there’s a quick access pocket for small essential items and within the front compartment, there are additional organization pockets. These keep your pens, sunglasses, electronics, and other gear neat and easy to reach. There’s also a key chain so your keys never get lost at the bottom. 

The Aer Travel Pack is small enough to be a carry-on item while flying, and the back panel of the pack acts as a pass-through for luggage handles. If you want more support, you can purchase a hip belt which comes separately. 

Although the Aer Travel Pack may be on the expensive end, the combination of 1680D nylon, Duraflex plastic, and YKK zippers are built to last, while also making the pack comfortable and sturdy while carrying. 

Is this the best EDC bag ever? Our team think so! They had a lot of love for this bag, but some of the stand-out features for them were the locking zips on the main section as well as the laptop pocket. They also loved the clamshell opening style of the large compartment which meant they could fit packing cubes inside and access their gear easily.

Be sure to check out our detailed Travel Pack 2 review here .

• Great internal organization pockets
• Main compartment has lay-flat design
• Works as travel carry-on
• More expensive

#2 – Best EDC Backpack Runner Up: Nomatic Travel Bag 30L

2nd prize: The Nomatic Travel Bag 30L

• Price: $279.99
• Best Use: Urban, travel
• Weight: 3.3 lbs

The Broke Backpacker team have been big fans of Nomatic gear for years. In fact from a style, functionality, and price point of view, nobody quite does it like Nomatic.

The 30 litre Nomatic Travel Bag is great for people who don’t want to own multiple backpacks; this bag can be your everyday bag AND your travel day pack all in one.

Especially if you find yourself carrying around a laptop, some clothing layers, chargers, a camera, etc – you’ll find 30 litres to be a pretty damn good size.

There will be times when you don’t end up filling up the bag to capacity each time you go out, but I prefer to have a bit more space on occasion than not enough. Do note that a 30-litre backpack is on the larger side of your typical daily grind everyday carry backpack.

Our team really loved the organisational features on this backpack, it was especially useful for digital nomads carrying around heaps of different cables, hard drives, laptops, tablets and other shiz! The different carrying configurations were also ideal for our team when they were getting on and off public transport.

Unfortunately, at this time Nomatic can’t ship to Europe, so if you are outside of the USA, go with the Aer Travel Pack 2 small instead.

• Fully featured pack
• Works great for travel and as an EDC Pack
• Carry-on Size
• Maybe too large for some people

#3 – Best EDC Sling Bag: Aer Day Sling 2

Aer Day Sling 2 is one of the best EDC sling bag

• Weight: 0.7 pounds
• Liters: 4.5 liters

If you don’t need an entire backpack but still want a convenient bag for storing your phone, camera, passport, or other small essential items, then a sling bag is a perfect choice. The Aer Day Sling is also a more budget-friendly EDC pack option. 

There are three pockets: a front pouch, one main compartment, and a hidden back pocket great for keeping your passport or cash safe. The main pocket can fit a 7.9-inch tablet and it has multiple organizational pouches for storing sunglasses, pens, or other small items. 

The one aspect of the Aer Day Sling that could use improvement is the shoulder strap. Although it’s adjustable, there’s not much padding, which can make it a bit uncomfortable after wearing it for a long time. 

Like the Aer Travel Pack, the Day Sling is made out of 1680D nylon, Duraflex plastic, and has YKK zippers on all the pockets. It’s also a good lightweight EDC pack, weighing less than a pound when empty. 

Our team rated this as their favourite small EDC backpack. They loved how compact it was for all their essential items like their passport, wallet, phone, compact camera and battery pack. They felt it also offered an awesome level of organisational features for such a small pack.

PSSTTT – If you want something light, but still bigger than a sling then you might be interested in these Packable Backpacks .

• 3 pockets and good organisation
• Lightweight and budget friendly
• Durable material
• Shoulder strap could use more padding
• Can’t fit much gear

#4 – Best EDC Camera Bag: Wandrd PRVKE Series Camera Bag

Wandrd PRVKE Series Camera Bag is our top pick for the best EDC camera bag

• Price: $239
• Best Use: Photography, travel
• Weight: 3.4 pounds
• Liters: 21 liters and 31 liter options
• Rain cover included: Optional (purchase with or without accessory bundle)

There’s nothing worse than having your camera gear damaged as a result of inadequate protection in your backpack or bag. The PRVKE takes all your photography needs and concerns into account and delivers an excellent everyday carry backpack. 

Two sizes are available. One is 21 litres, which can be expanded to 26 litres by extending the roll top, the other is a larger 31 litres, which is expandable to 36.

Both are made of waterproof tarpaulin and YKK weather-resistant zippers. So although the specialist camera backpack wouldn’t survive being submerged, it will still hold up to heavy rain or some splashing. The water-resistant exterior is pretty tough too making this a super durable EDC backpack.

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Inside are removable camera cubes so you can use the PRVKE as a normal pack on days you don’t need to bring your equipment. There’s also a dedicated laptop compartment, a tech pocket, a hidden pocket in the back, and a water bottle pocket for storing other essentials. 

It’s a super functional backpack for photographers, providing a side opening directly to the camera cube for easy access to your gear on the move. You can also buy extra external carry straps to attach things like a tripod and there’s a water bottle pocket on the other side. On top of that, it’s also one of the most stylish bags for photographers on the market too.

You can either carry the PRVKE as a backpack or a tote bag thanks to the handles on top. It also comes with a removable waist strap which helps for carrying heavier loads. 

The photographers on the team were blown away by this bag and the side opening feature was a game changer. They loved that it made accessing their camera super easy and fast yet they could also keep other items separate in the upper roll top section. They also loved the material which felt durable and great at keeping the weather out.

Read the full review here .

• For camera equipment or regular backpack use
• Highly weather resistant
• 2 sizes available and both have expandable roll-top
• Waist strap could use more padding

#5 – Best EDC Laptop Pack: Tortuga Outbreaker Laptop Backpack

Meet the best EDC laptop pack: Tortuga Outbreaker Laptop Backpack

• Price: $250
• Best Use: University, travel
• Weight: 3.2 pounds
• Liters: 27 litres
• Rain cover included: No (but has waterproof fabric and weather resistant zippers)

Although many of the best EDC packs have a spot to store a laptop, the Tortuga Outbreaker goes the extra mile and provides a bombproof laptop compartment.

Not only is this everyday backpack super comfortable, but also very stylish and well-designed to keep your laptop safe while on the go. It’s a top pack for digital nomads who need to carry a fair bit of gear.

It’s a cracking laptop backpack with extras. The outer material is VX21 waterproof sailcloth and the laptop compartment is protected with ariaprene foam. Each pocket has YKK lockable zippers to add further protection, especially while travelling. 

With a 27 litre capacity, and the ability to open all the way like a suitcase, the Outbreaker can easily fit extra clothing, textbooks, your lunch, or even a pair of shoes. It’s still small enough to fit as a carry-on bag underneath an aeroplane seat, making it a great option for travellers. 

Inside are mesh pockets for keeping your chargers and other essential items organised and easy to reach. In addition to the padded shoulder straps, there’s a removable sternum strap, plus top and side handles so you can carry the pack like a briefcase or tote bag. 

With the padded laptop sleeve and water-resistant exterior, this is a top everyday backpack for that needed protection for their tech and a decent amount of room for accessories. However, some might feel it’s a little bulky for an everyday backpack for work.

Our team felt this was the best EDC laptop backpack on the market, especially for those on our team who just love keeping their gear organised. They loved the different pockets, mesh separators and zippered compartments that meant everything a digital nomad has to carry on the daily can be kept organised and accessible.

Read the full-length Tortuga Outbreaker review here .

• Lots of pockets and good organisation
• Fits size requirements for ‘personal item’ when flying
• Very weatherproof
• padded laptop sleeve

#6 – Best Leather EDC Backpack – Lakeland Fenton Leather Rucksack

The Fenton Rucksack by Lakeland

• Best Use: Urban
• Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Liters: 25 litres

Yum, look at that lovely leather goodness! I really love a good leather backpack. The classic look leather rucksack Lakeland leather mixes high-quality waxy leather with a stylish, and even slightly retro design aesthetic. It’s a cool and fashionable backpack made for urban living whether you are headed to the gym, the coffee shop or commuting for the daily grind.

Great for going to work, The Fenton Backpack can comfortably accommodate an A4 pad and a 13″ laptop inside its dedicated laptop compartment.

The style-conscious on our team really loved the look of this bag. They felt it offered a good amount of storage for those wanting to carry enough for the day without being too bulky. They also loved the classic leather material and felt it was durable, weather resistance and would wear in nicely over the years.

• Good quality stylish leather
• Easy organisation
• Great for everyday use
• Not designed for hiking or getting outdoors
• Limited storage capacity

#7 – Best EDC Backpack for Travel: Aer Travel Pack 2

Our pick for best EDC backpack for travel is Aer Travel Pack 2

• Price: $249
• Best Use: Travel, university
• Liters: 33 litres

For longer trips, you’ll want something that’s large enough to hold all your gear and belongings. The Aer Travel Pack 2 is a larger version of our number one pick for the best EDC backpack, but it’s still small enough to work as a carry-on item. 

It might be a bit bulky as a commuter everyday carry backpack, but it’s great for one bag travel. It’s versatile enough to use as a carry on for a weekend break and double as an everyday backpack for exploring during the day. (Disclaimer: It’s not going to be compliant with the strict Ryanair carry-on policy, unfortunately!)

The lay-flat clamshell design of the main compartment makes it super simple to pack and keep everything organised. There’s also an easy access pocket that can fit a 15.6-inch laptop, and a shoe compartment large enough for a men’s size 13. The compression straps also keep everything tight and compact.

Thanks to the ergonomic and padded shoulder straps, your back won’t get sore even after you’ve been out walking around all day. It’s also possible to carry the Aer Travel Pack as a tote or bag thanks to the padded top and side handles. 

Although the Aer Travel Pack isn’t totally waterproof, it is highly weather-resistant thanks to the 160D Cordura nylon exterior and smooth YKK zippers. Both the main and front pockets have lockable zippers for added security. 

Like the smaller version of the travel pack the team felt the larger bag offered all the features they loved but in a package perfect for longer trips. They felt the bag had an air of real hard-wearing quality with fat zips and thick material. Again, the lockable laptop compartment was a feature that gave them a real sense of confidence when out and about.

• Durable material and locking zippers
• Clamshell design for easy packing
• Comfortable and stylish everyday backpack
• Doesn’t come with hip belt (can purchase separately)

#8 – Best EDC Backpack for the Gym: Aer Fit Pack 2

Our pick for best EDC backpack for the gym is Aer Fit Pack 2

• Price: $149
• Best Use: Fitness, urban
• Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Liters: 18.8 litres

Ever wish your gym bag could carry more than a pair of shoes and your towel? Well, the Aer Fit Pack is the solution to your needs! This stylish bag is the perfect everyday backpack to carry your training gear but also has all the features needed to make it functional in other everyday uses. 

Say goodbye to the single pocket standard gym bag you’ve been using. The Aer Fit Pack has numerous pockets, including the front-loading main pocket, a ventilated compartment for shoes up to men’s size 13, a small top pocket for valuables, and a padded laptop pocket. 

With space for all your belongings, you can hit the gym then head straight to work or class without needing to swap bags or pick up any of your other possessions. 

Like other Aer products, the Fit Pack is well-made and durable with a weather-resistant nylon exterior, YKK zippers, and Duraflex plastic for structure and stability. 

As you can tell, Aer is popular among our team. They loved this bag due to its compact size which also managed to pack in a whole heap of features. The separate shoe section and front area where clothing can be kept are perfect for keeping things separate like sweaty gym gear.

• Padded laptop compartment
• Easy Access Shoe compartment (with ventilation!)
• Durable and weather resistant
• Shoulder straps could have more padding
• No dedicated water bottle pockets

#9 – Best EDC Duffel for the Gym: Kodiak 25l Duffel

Our pick for best EDC duffel for the gym is Kodiak 25L

• Best Use: Fitness, travel
• Weight: 16 ounces
• Liters: 25 liters

Not only does this duffel work well for the gym, but it can also function as a travel bag or extra-large briefcase, thanks to the large carrying capacity and multiple compartments.

The Kodiak Duffel 25L has many of the same features as the Fit Pack 2 but it is simply far more elegant, stylish and yes, manly! Inside the main compartment, you can easily fit a basketball, water bottles, and other gear, plus there’s a separate ventilated pocket for shoes to help with organisation and minimize odour. 

Unlike your typical gym bag, the Kodiak Duffel can also be used for work or school, thanks to the padded laptop compartment and other gear pockets for storing additional electronics, books, and travel items. 

Due to its sleekness, the duffel also won’t look out of place if you bring it with you to the office or into a coffee shop.

The team loved this duffel and felt it offered a great alternative to traditional backpacks, especially for those wanting something a little more professional looking. The stylish exterior felt both sturdy, durable and hard-wearing whilst looking sleek and sophisticated at the same time.

• Padded shoulder strap and handles
• Lots of storage space
• Pockets for laptop and shoes
• Not a backpack

#10 – Best Budget EDC Pack: REI Co-op Ruckpack 28

REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 is our top pick for the best budget EDC pack

• Price: $129
• Best Use: Camping, travel, urban
• Weight: 1 pound 3 ounces
• Liters: 28 litres
• Rain cover included: Yes

Osprey has made a name for themselves with their high-quality camping and travel gear, and the Ruckpack meets these same expectations. Not only is it functional and durable, but the Ruckpack is also made from recycled ripstop nylon if you’re interested in purchasing more sustainable products .  

There’s a laptop sleeve that can also hold a hydration pack. It features both side and top main compartments, compression straps, and a small zippered top pocket for valuables. The zippered compartments are also lockable for secure travelling. 

There’s a sternum strap and a very small hip belt, which is, unfortunately, lacking in padding. Other than that, the Ruckpack measures up to being a great EDC backpack without such a high price tag attached. 

The team were pretty impressed by this pack for the price. They felt the volume was a good compromise between carrying enough gear without encouraging over-packing. Other features they loved were the locking zippers and laptop sleeve that can double as a hydration reservoir for great versatility.

• More budget-friendly
• Carry-on compliant and has locking zippers
• Many organisation pockets
• laptop Sleeve
• Flimsy hip belt
• Side pockets aren’t very secure

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#11 – Best EDC Day Hiking Pack: Osprey Daylite Plus Pack 

Osprey Daylite Plus Pack is one of the best EDC day hiking pack

• Best Use: Camping, hiking, travel
• Weight: 1 pound, 3.8 ounces

This lightweight backpack does the trick for single day hiking adventures. It’s on the smaller end of EDC backpacks but is still big enough to bring the essentials without becoming too heavy while out on the trail. The compression straps also keep things as compact as possible.

Although it’s too small to fit most laptops, there’s a compartment that can fit a tablet or other similarly-sized device. You can also purchase a hydration reservoir to fit in the back pocket, or there are two side mesh pockets that are convenient for carrying water bottles. 

The shoulder straps have enough padding to be comfortable for a long hike, although the hip belt is only simple webbing material. It’s also the perfect size as a personal item on an aeroplane and will fit stowed underneath your seat, but be aware that it doesn’t have lockable zippers. 

It’s a bit too small for multi-day travels, but for a budget-friendly and lightweight EDC backpack for day hikes, the Daylite pack fits the bill. 

The hikers on the team loved the comfort levels of this pack for wearing for long periods of time. Other features they were taken by were the front stash pocket for things like waterproof jackets. They also loved how well made the pack felt too. The skaters in the group also rated this as an awesome skateboard backpack too with how easy it was to store their set up on this pack.

Wanna know more? Check out our more detailed review for the lowdown.

• Lightweight
• Comfortable shoulder straps
• Budget friendly
• Too small for most laptops
• Hip belt can be uncomfortable
• Sometimes water bottles can fall out

#12 – Best EDC Pack for University Students: Tortuga Laptop Backpack

Meet the best EDC pack for university students: Tortuga Laptop Backpack

• Best Use: University, urban, travel
• Weight: 2.1 pounds
• Liters: 24 liters

Both functional and stylish, the Tortuga laptop bag is the perfect backpack for your university studies, work, or travel. There’s a bombproof laptop compartment, plus another compartment for storing a tablet, both of which have padded foam for protection. 

There’s plenty of space for all your textbooks, lunch or snacks while on the go, or other electronic equipment. Unfortunately, the Setout doesn’t have a hip belt, but there is a removable sternum strap to help balance the weight. 

If you’re using the pack for travel, there’s a suitcase pass-through handle and the zippers on the main compartments are lockable. The clamshell design of the main compartment makes it easy to organize and use for packing clothing for an overnight or longer trip. 

Although the pack isn’t waterproof, it is highly water-resistant thanks to the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating on the outside. The padded shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry, and there are also side and top handles to carry the Setout like a tote bag. 

The team felt this pack was a solid backpack for those carrying laptops, notepads and other square items that would otherwise be awkward in rounder packs. The lockable zips again were a winner for keeping that expensive laptop safe while on the move.

• Padded & Fleece Lined Laptop Sleeve
• Padded straps and top and side handles
• No hip belt

#13 – Best EDC Pack For Commuters: Gulu Made Inspire Backpack

Meet the best EDC pack for university Commuters: Gulu Made Inspire Backpack

• Best Use: Going to work and urban, travel
• Weight: 2 pounds

Gulu Made are a socially conscious ethical start-up based in Uganda whose credentials are amazing. The team who work at Gulu Made all trained to sew in the aftermath of Joseph Kony’s horrible civil war. They now leverage their skill to make beautiful bags and to build a future for themselves and their families. 

The pack itself has certainly impressed me. It zips down into 3 main storage compartments so you can organise your files, gym kit and lunch as you see fit and there is a dedicated laptop sleeve. There is no front pocket, but the pack does have 2 water bottle slide-in pockets at the sides. Best of all, the bag is lined with beautiful colourful traditional African fabric.

This pack is great for commuters , day trips and is roomy enough for short stay vacations. It could also be used for easy day hikes but does not have a hip/waist support belt so is perhaps less suitable for strenuous mountain treks.

Gulu Made are going to be a huge player in the vegan/ethical backpack space for years to come.

The team felt for a backpack this bag looked professional enough for taking into the office or on business trips, especially for those wanting to avoid briefcases. They felt the pack had a simple and lowkey vibe whilst also packing in a heap of organisational features across the 3 main pockets.

Looking for a commuter pack that’s a bit more professional, then check out one of the business backpacks on offer instead.

• Lovely internal fabric
• Great storage layout
• Handmade in Uganda by War Survivor
• Lifetime Guarantee
• Drop-Safe laptop Pocket
• No front/lip pocket

#14 Best Organized EDC Backpack – Tropicfeel Shell

Meet the best organized EDC pack: Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

• Best Use: Weekend Trips, Minimalist Travel
• Weight: 3.3 pounds (at full capacity)
• Liters: 22-40 litres

The Shell by Tropicfeel is a little to medium backpack with a big concept. Firstly, it is a 3 in 1 extendable backpack that begins life as a 22-litre pack, rolls up to 30 litres and then with the addition of a detachable pouch goes all the way to 40 litres.

As well as being a 3-in-1 backpack (which you can easily adapt to use as a day pack, overnight pack and carry-on pack), the Shell also has another awesome feature – a little, mini drop in pull out travel roll up wardrobe!

It’s a great bag for those who like to travel neat and also for business people who kind of need to stay presentable and organised. It’s made from fully sustainable materials making the Shell an all-round hit with us at The Broke Backpacker.

The team love the innovation packed into these backpacks and easily it made organising all their gear. The built-in wardrobe system in practice worked perfectly for any length of trip. The expandable capacity of the backpack also adds to its versatility, another plus point for our team.

• Really fucking versatile
• Truly novel and unique
• Packs up easily
• Fairly priced
• fleece Lined Laptop Sleeve
• Not great for hiking
• Not big enough for big trips
• Not cheap (yet not expensive)

#15 Best Hipster EDC Backpack – Stubble & Co The Roll Top

• Price: $170

If you’re looking for something that is both stylish, functional and also super robust, the Roll Top is the perfect choice for an everyday carry bag. The internal main compartment offers a massive amount of space with a selection of pockets and organisers to keep smaller items easy to access.

On the outside, the thick tarp-style material is durable enough for everyday use and will keep the weather out with ease. There’s also a super practical front pocket for easy access to things like travel cards or journals.

If you’re carting around a laptop on the daily then the dedicated laptop compartment on the back panel of the bag is ideal. It means you can keep your most expensive bit of kit away from all your other gear and also keeps it much safer whilst on the move.

On top of that, if you’re a style-conscious kinda person then the hipster style of this roll top will suit you for your EDC. What we love here is that the look of this bag fits in wherever you want to take it, from the cafes of Canguu to the daily commute or bumming around Thailand, it works!

Want more options? Check out our rundown of the best Stubble & Co. bags .

• Perfect amount of storage at 20l
• Looks super cool
• Durable and hardwearing
• Well protected against the weather
• Dedicated laptop compartment/ pocket
• A roll top closure isn’t for everyone
• Inside could do with some other organisational features
• Is a bit square for some body shapes/ tastes

Best of the Rest

If you haven’t quite found the right EDC backpack on this list, don’t give up yet! Here are a few more options for EDC packs that might have the exact feature or specifications you’re looking for in the perfect all-around pack. 

Tortuga Weekender Backpack 30L

This 30-litre bag is on the larger end for EDC backpacks, making it perfect as a weekend pack while travelling or a large school bag if you’ve got heaps of gear. There’s also a dedicated laptop sleeve, and it’s big enough to fit pretty much any laptop. There is a padded front pouch that can fit up to an 8-inch tablet, plus compartments for chargers and other small electronic devices. 

Since it fits easily in the overhead compartments of aeroplanes, it’s a good ‘carry-on’ bag for travel. The YKK zippers on the main compartment are also lockable for added security. 

To free up extra space inside the pack, you can put your water bottle in one of the mesh pockets on the side. It’s a good idea to use the webbing loops to secure the bottle as well since sometimes bottles can slip out if you bend over. 

Some members of our team prefer to keep things as light and as small as possible, for them this bag was a bit large. However, those that have a lot of gear were still suitably impressed by the organisational features packed inside this bag and just the sheer amount of stuff they could comfortably carry.

Wandrd Duo Daypack

Another great EDC pack for photographers, the Duo Daypack is a bit smaller than our top pick for a camera backpack, but it still fits a decent amount of gear.

The pop-up camera cube provides a secure spot for your camera, but it can easily be flattened if you aren’t bringing your photography gear along. 

The padded laptop sleeve and padded electronic compartments keep all your devices safe while on the go. Thanks to the waterproof tarpaulin material and weather-resistant YKK zippers, the Duo Daypack will also hold up against rain showers or accidental spills. 

To access your gear, the Duo has cool side-entry zippers on both sides of the main compartment. There’s also a hidden pocket in the back for keeping a passport or spare cash safe and out of sight. 

The team were split when it came to the unique opening style of this bag. Those wanting to keep things simple felt it was a little unnecessary, but for the photographers on the team, they felt it was revolutionary! For them, it was like having a studio on their back where they could keep all their gear accessible and organised.

AER Go Pack

One of Aer’s more budget-friendly EDC backpacks, the Go Pack doesn’t have all the features of the Travel Pack, but it’s also more lightweight and easily rolls up for convenient storage. There’s still a padded compartment for a laptop up to 13 inches and a quick access pocket on top. 

The 300D Cordura ripstop fabric is durable, but not weather-resistant, so you’ll want to be careful if you’re caught out in a rainstorm. It also lacks lockable zippers like other Aer packs, which some travellers prefer for security. 

The minimalist yet sleek design means that the Go Pack will suit a variety of settings, whether you’re on an aeroplane or catching up with friends at a cafe. It would be nice to have at least one or two gear loops on the outside, however, especially since some water bottles can slip out of the side pockets if you bend over. 

For the team members looking for a pack that covers all their basic needs without being bulky or unwieldy, this bag hit the spot. For such a compact backpack the addition of a laptop sleeve, internal zippered section and front pocket was impressive. The ability to roll it down or throw it inside a bigger bag was a massive plus point too.

Osprey Talon 22 Pack

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Osprey Talon is a great EDC backpack that offers both support and organisation. Out of all the packs on this list, the Talon probably has the best hip belt with excellent padding and pockets on each side, although it’s not removable. 

Designed for hiking, biking, climbing, and other outdoor sports, the Talon 22 has a helmet attachment, loops for ice tools, and trekking pole attachment points. 

You can also purchase a separate hydration reservoir to fit in the back sleeve for convenient water access while on the trail. However, there’s not a designated laptop pocket, although some laptops will still fit inside the main pocket. 

If you have an outdoorsy lifestyle and need an EDC backpack for your adventures, then the Osprey Talon is a good fit. This pack is a classic for hiking and our team has been big fans for years. They feel it’s a great size for day hikes without ending up too heavy. The shoulder straps and hip belt also make it one of the comfiest on our list too.

Fjallraven Raven 20L Pack

This casual backpack is good for all-around use whether you’re attending university, commuting, or travelling. The Heavy Duty Eco fabric is strong and durable, but not water-resistant, so be careful if you’re caught in a shower. 

Within the main compartment, there’s a padded laptop pocket for a 15-inch model as well as a zippered security pocket for valuables. In the front pouch, there are additional mesh pockets for organization. 

The padded shoulder straps offer good comfort, although the back has less ventilation than some of the other EDC packs we’ve listed. There is a top haul handle, but the pack lacks a sternum strap or hip belt. 

Since it’s a bit cheaper, the Raven 20L is a great budget EDC backpack. However, if you plan on carrying heavy loads, or go hiking with your backpack, you’ll probably want something with better support and ventilation. 

If you’re looking for a small EDC pack then our team rate this Fjallraven highly. When it comes to style, this bag might just be the winner! But there’s more to love than that, they also feel it offers great durability and will put up with daily abuse easily.

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. 😉

How to Choose the Best EDC Pack 

As you can see from our list, there’s a fair amount of variety in great EDC packs depending on how you plan to use it. Below, we’ll go into more detail about how to decide which EDC pack is the best fit for your needs. 

From minimalist daypacks to luxury travel bags, there’s a wide variety in how many features an every day carry pack has. 

Laptop sleeves, lockable zippers, water bottle pockets, and secret pouches for passport and cash are all examples of common EDC pack features.

Other things, like gear loops, spots for a hydration reservoir, and camera compartments are more specialized features designed specifically for hiking and photography . 

Although having an EDC back with tons of features can be nice, usually these bags are bigger and more expensive. If all you really need is a simple, lightweight day bag, then don’t worry so much about finding a bag with all the bells and whistles. 

Determining what the “right” weight for an EDC pack is can be a bit tricky and is a matter of finding a balance of size, material, and comfort. 

Most EDC packs are on the lighter end since they’re intended as something to carry around on a daily basis. Larger and heavier packs are usually designed for a specific purpose, like carrying delicate camera equipment or as carry-on luggage while travelling. 

If you’re planning on using this pack for hiking or travelling and will be wearing it for the majority of the day, you don’t want something that’s going to be too heavy. Go with the minimum of what you need, and keep an eye out for good hip belts and padded shoulder straps. 

If you’re planning on using your EDC pack more for going to the gym or commuting, then counting the ounces isn’t as much of an issue. You can focus more on whether the pack will fit all your possessions, knowing that the time spent carrying it will be more limited. 

Between your pockets not being big enough and a suitcase being way too large, there’s a lot of variation in how big or small an EDC pack can be. For some people, something like the Aer Day Sling is enough, while a photographer will want something larger for all their equipment. 

Sure, with a bigger pack you’ll have room for your laptop, a change of clothes, lunch, or even a spare pair of shoes, but not everyone needs all that space.

When picking an EDC pack, it can be helpful to make a list of all the things you want it to hold (laptop, water bottle, camera, phone, books, etc.).

Be mindful of size so you don’t end up with something that’s too bulky or cumbersome. Remember, this is a day pack; longer trips are where a suitcase or camping backpack comes in handy. 

A bike commuter and a travel photographer most likely won’t pick the same type of EDC pack. One person’s “everyday” use can look very different from another’s, so you’ll want to think about what style or specific features would serve you best. 

If you know for sure you’ll be carrying a laptop on a regular basis, then having a padded laptop compartment is important. Frequent fliers are going to want a bag that fits with airline carry-on specifications, and often prefer features like lockable zippers or luggage pass-through on the back.

The good news is that most of the best EDC packs can function in a variety of settings. For example, the Aer Gym Duffel also has a compartment for a laptop or the Wandrd PRVKE bag has a removable camera cube for when you don’t have your photo gear along. If keeping expensive equipment is your priority then be sure to get a decent camera backpack .

When selecting an EDC pack, think about both your primary and secondary intended use. For example, if you want the bag mostly for a daily commute to work, but like the idea of going hiking on the weekends, then something lightweight with padded straps, a water bottle holder, and good back ventilation is ideal.  

What sort of “cool” factor points does your backpack or bag have? Will it look alright to bring to a meeting at work? Do you want a bag that’s eye-catching, or something simpler and more minimalistic?  

Some people care a lot about how a backpack looks, while for others functionality is the only thing that matters. Again, thinking about how you will most often be using the bag can help determine whether you should go for a certain look or not. 

If you want to bring your EDC pack to more formal settings, like an office workspace or a travel business meeting, then something with a more sleek appearance is desirable. If you plan on using your EDC exclusively for biking and hikes in the woods, then you probably don’t need to worry so much about how classy the pack looks. 

Thinking about where you plan on using your pack is just as important as what you need it for. Do you live somewhere with cold winters? Somewhere with lots of rain like Portland or London? Are you travelling somewhere hot and humid like Singapore or the Caribbean? 

Taking the weather into account can help you decide how durable and weatherproof a bag you’ll need.

Even really good EDC packs usually aren’t waterproof to the point of being submersible, but some come close thanks to waterproof material and weather-resistant zippers. 

Usually, the more weather resistant the bag is, the more it’s going to cost. However, if you’re carrying around an expensive laptop, camera equipment, or other valuables, buying a more watertight bag can actually save you money (and peace of mind) in the long run. 

How and Where We Tested To Find The Best EDC Backpacks

When it came to testing out these packs we got a hold of each one of them and put them through their paces with a series of different tests. We gave each one to different members of the team in various locations around the world and let them loose with them!

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry stuff and as such, top points are awarded for how packable one is. That is especially so when it comes to the best EDC backpacks, whatever you decide to put inside them. A decent pack will maximise space and facilitate effective packing.

So we got all technicals and packed and unpacked each bag to test this out! We looked at not only how well each bag packed in our gear, but how easy that gear was to retrieve too.

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

When it comes to the best EDC bags, comfort is an important factor. As the name suggests, you’re going to be wearing these packs often, so you want them to minimise weight and maximise carry comfort. No one wants to be carrying around an awkward pack that digs into the shoulders, so we prioritised bags that were comfortable even when fully packed out.

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled its primary purpose we used it for this purpose. When it comes to EDC bags, each one is different and serves a different purpose. So for each one, we were sure to bear that in mind. Camera backpacks, we chucked our cameras inside and accessed how well they worked for us photographers for example. You get the idea right? 

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well, those people probably listen to Nickelback! For us, the best EDC bag looks just as sexy as we do! I mean, you’re carrying that mofo around all day, every day, so we want to look good whilst doing it!

As such we also awarded points for how good a backpack looked as well as how practical it was.

Durability and Weatherproofing

A bag that you carry around every day usually has some pretty important gear inside, so for us, the best EDC packs keep the weather out and our precious stuff safe. To test this out we poured a litre of water over each one and accessed the insides of the pack.

Another important factor is durability. Using a backpack every day puts a lot of strain on the bag and they need to be reliant to stand up to such abuse. So we tested this out by being sure to give each pack a good run of consistent use and then assessed things like the material used, quality of the seam sewing, traction of the zippers and pressure points that break often.

FAQ about the Best EDC Backpacks

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

What is a EDC backpack?

EDC stands for ‘every day carry’. And EDC backpack is functional, but also perfectly acceptable for every day needs.

What’s the most functional EDC backpack?

With plenty of organizing cubes, waterproof meterial, comfortable fit and even more features, the Wandrd PRVKE Bag is the most functional EDC bag on the market right now.

What’s the most stylish EDC backpack?

You can never go wrong with a minimalistic design. That’s why the Aer Travel Pack 2 is our choice for the most stylish EDC backpack.

What’s the best EDC backpack for digital nomads?

If you need to store your laptop safely on your way to the cafe or even on travels, the Tortuga Outbreaker Laptop Backpack is the ideal candidate.

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Final Thoughts on the Best Everyday Carry Backpacks (EDC) Backpacks

There you have it. From gym bags to travel backpacks, hopefully, you’ve been able to find the best EDC pack for your needs and lifestyle on this list. If you’re tired of awkward tote bags or backpacks that keep ripping at the seams, then it’s probably time to invest in one of these comfortable and high-quality everyday carry packs. 

This is 2024; there are PLENTY of awesome options out there, so now I can’t find an excuse for not having an awesome backpack I carry around every day. Life is too short amigos for a s*** everyday pack.

Whether you go with a great all-around option like our top pick the Aer Small Travel Pack or something like the Aer Duffel Bag if you’re regularly at the gym, an EDC pack is a great way to help stay organized in all your daily activities. Most of these packs also work great as carry on backpacks too if you’re headed away for a break from the daily grind, you can save money and use the same bag!

Good luck on your quest to find the perfect backpack that fits your daily routine. What do you think is the best EDC pack?

Aiden Freeborn

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The Best Items for a Travel-Friendly EDC

Getting out?

By Tanner Bowden

The operative word in the term EDC – everyday carry – is “everyday.” It implies daily use, which to some might come through something like Airpods and to others, a pocket knife. The items we find useful day in, day out vary from one person to another, but it’s not just a personal preference that allows for distinction in what we carry. Place plays a role too.

You might have an outdoor-specific EDC or one for life in the city. Or you might gear your everyday carry toward no place in particular and instead for the flexibility that travel requires. In which case, you’ve come to the right place indeed.

Code of Bell X-Pod

Sling bags have recently been drawing devotees from the fashion world, but they aren’t just a style statement; they’re practical, too. That’s particularly true for travel — when a backpack is overkill for a day spent wandering a foreign city, you still need something to tote around an extra layer, water and a camera (as well as the other items on this list). Code of Bell’s X-Pod is perfect for the task thanks to a sleek look and expanding construction that accommodates more than you’d think.

The James Brand Stilwell

Sure, most pens are small enough to travel well, but Stilwell does so with determined style. Closed, this pen is 3.5 inches long and fits into the coin pocket of your jeans . Open, it’s cap extends the utensil’s length to fit comfortably in hand, even during long bouts of journaling. As a bonus, the Stilwell uses a replaceable D1 ink cartridge that’s easy to find around the world.

Moleskine Voyageur Notebook

While any bound stack of paper might serve as a place to jot down impressions from the road, Moleskine outfitted its Voyageur Notebook specifically for travel. It has pages, lined and blank, for drawings and thoughts, but it also contains sections for planning days and budgets as well as need-to-know information, such as time zones, area codes and how to get in touch with local police.

HydraPak Stow

The Stow uses a flexible construction that keeps it lightweight and remarkably packable.

Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes

After a full day in transit or hours spent on a hiking trail or around town, a fresh-feeling face makes for a simple yet wondrous morale boost. Stash some of these wipes in your carry-on and day bag, so you always have one at the ready.

Leatherman Free T4

A road trip through Europe inspired Tim Leatherman to create the original multi-tool, but the newer Swiss Army-like Free T4 is ideal for everyday travelers. Its compact form employs magnets to permit one-handed deployment of a knife, scissors, bottle opener, screwdriver, tweezers and more. Needless to say, don’t stash this one in your carry-on.

Bellroy Coin Fold

Coins still count as meaningful currency in most countries, so it’s smart to carry a wallet that keeps them safe in one place. Take Bellroy’s Coin Fold, which might be a standard billfold if it weren’t for its smartly-designed coin pouch. (The wallet also has a slot for a SIM card, should you need to swap your phone to a local carrier.)

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Fly Prepared: Travel-Friendly EDC Gear

I travel quite a bit for work. Not as much as some but certainly more than most. My air travel can range from overnight trips with only three-hour flights to ten-day trips where each leg requires more than twenty hours in the air. In addition to gaining frequent flyer status and an advanced awareness of airplane lavatories, another ancillary benefit is an appreciation for high-quality gear. More specifically, an appreciation for solid kit that punches above its weight class and provides a significant return on investment. 

Travel forces you to identify and analyze what items you find important and separate nice-to-have kit from necessities. It’s an exercise in critical decision-making about what you carry and for what reason you carry it. 

When determining if I should invest in a piece of gear, I look at it through three primary filters: quality vs cost (can I depend on it and at the price point is it worth it?), functionality (does it execute well in its designated function(s)? And bonus points for items with multiple use cases), and usefulness (does it expand my capabilities in a meaningful way?). 

Essentially, these filters become exponentially more important when you travel and are potentially far from home. Additionally, it’s prudent to choose items that have a relatively travel-friendly form factor. The inherent challenge here is ensuring what you choose to forgo in size and weight doesn’t commensurately reduce functionality and effectiveness.

The intention of this article is to highlight gear that checks these boxes. Every item referenced is something I have personally carried for literally thousands of miles and have used extensively. While there are some fantastic in-depth reviews on Carryology, including some of the items I’ll profile here, this will be more of a high level carry collective viewed through the lens of travel. 

For this maiden voyage, I am profiling items from multiple companies. However, after taking inventory of my current go-to travel items, it became immediately apparent that one company had a larger presence than the rest. Ever since Patrick Ma and Chris Whitney launched Prometheus Design Werx (PDW) they have been creating and producing top-tier goods for the tactical and EDC community.

Beyond Ma’s legendary reputation, what initially drew me to PDW and has since made me a loyal patron was how perfectly their gear lived at the intersection of form and function. PDW claims to “Learn from the past, look to the future, and build for today.” I think they have done just that as they are consistently able to bring kit to market that pays homage to the vintage while taking advantage of modern materials and design techniques. Their high-quality multi-purpose performance apparel, equipment, and accessories are most certainly for the modern adventurer. 

I strongly recommend taking a long hard look at all of their offerings as they lend themselves so well to preparedness and therefore travel. While PDW gear has become a backbone of my carry system as of late, many other companies are also killing it in the travel game. I have highlighted several of these offerings that regularly find their way into my pocket or on my back. 

Now on to the gear. Anyone who travels with any frequency has likely already identified a carry system that works for them. The items listed below do not make up a comprehensive list of what I carry (although that will be covered in a future write-up) but do represent some major pillars of my carry system; a carry-on backpack that serves as my daily carry pack, my “Emergency AKA hope I will never need but still carry” kit, and a solid outerwear layer (which I pack regardless of destination). So without further ado, here are some items that I have used extensively and found to be exemplary.

Carry-On Backpack:

For the last several months I have been almost exclusively carrying the Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. v2.0 as my primary office EDC and my extra carry-on bag that I put under the seat in front of me. The S.H.A.D.O. is an updated and dramatically improved iteration of the original pack by the same name. I have the Universal Field Grey that I utilize for day hikes but it’s the Syth Black version I use as my daily carry. The S.H.A.D.O. is 20″ high, 11″ wide at the base, 9″ wide at the top and 7″ deep so it fits perfectly under a plane seat. The majority of its volume is divided into two larger compartments and a smaller admin pocket. The pack is lined in high-visibility orange 70D ripstop nylon which not only could be crucial in an emergency situation but is also fantastic when attempting to find items in your pack in low-light situations (i.e. on planes).

This has proven itself extremely useful during travel when I normally would have had to spend time rummaging through a pack in the restrictive quarters of airline seating. The main storage compartment is a full clamshell design and includes two zippered mesh pockets. The clamshell feature is fantastic for travel as it allows you to pack surgically versus the grab-and-stuff method. 

However, in my opinion the most useful feature in terms of travel is the removable and reversible gear trap/beaver tail. On one side is a stretch panel with a zippered compartment and the other side is MCA (MOLLE Compatible Array). I can’t possibly convey to you how useful this gear trap is. Running through the airport and don’t have room in your pack for the book and snacks you just purchased? The beaver tail makes it a non-issue. I wish every pack had this or something similar. The S.H.A.D.O. also has dual side stretch water bottle pockets. I actually use these to throw my pocket items in when I go through security. This allows me to stow them securely through X-ray and then quickly retrieve them on the other side without having to open my pack at all. They work great and the stretch nylon has a phenomenal memory to it. Other really cool travel-friendly features are the “self-policing webbing straps”.

As I have said in several previous reviews, a high-end pack needs to include strap keepers. PDW’s answer for this is innovative, works great and ensures your straps don’t get caught on anything as you walk down the airplane aisle or you’re running through a crowded airport because you landed in a terminal that is three light years away from your connecting fight (I’m talking to you, Newark Airport).

Another fantastic carry-on pack selection is the Arc’teryx Granville 16 Zip . It is completely slick, sleek and exudes quality. Arc’teryx currently offers it in Black and Pilot (grey) but I have their Bushwhack colorway. It is essentially a really amazing version of the old OD green. Not generally in my wheelhouse but the color is pretty awesome in person. Not a stitch out of place and it hugs the back perfectly. It carries great and travels even better.

I used the 16 Zip on several trips from Boston to SF and a couple international trips and it was a fantastic companion. The only thing I found myself wishing it had was a small bit of organization and the extra 1.5″ depth previously mentioned . It rode under the seat like a champ and felt amazing on my back during the countless miles I put on it. The black low-profile straps offer just the right amount of padding while in no way being bulky. There are three main compartments which are all externally accessible, a trait which I really appreciate. There is a suspended and well padded laptop pocket that can hold up to a 15″ computer – it swallows my 15″ MBP perfectly and with room to spare. That is a non-negotiable for me with any pack I carry for travel.

They also utilize a WaterTight™ zipper and from experience, I can say the watertight title appears to be well earned and accurate. The material, zippers and frame sheet add up to an extremely svelte 26 oz (1.625 lbs). This is pretty phenomenal when you consider anything under 2.5-3 lbs to be relatively lightweight for a crossover pack. While it is listed at 16L, it feels and carries like a 22L pack. 

So, please do not let the published capacity prevent you from carrying it on a trip if your primary concern is that it may be too small. I assure you, this pack is more in line with what other popular companies call 20-24L.

Secondary Carry:

Inside the pack I carry PDW’s Carry All Tote Bag (CaB-2) . This item rolls up small and is worth its weight in gold if you are the kind of traveler who brings home more than what you left with. It is 18″ high, 13″ long, 8″ wide and made of the rugged and ubiquitous 1000D Cordura® nylon. It has both long and short carry handles and a surprising amount of features for a light “extra” bag. There is an internal magazine pocket, an internal tablet pocket and a side pocket for a water bottle. It also has a 4″ x 4″ loop panel for your favorite morale patches.

You can use this tote for virtually anything. I keep it at the bottom of my S.H.A.D.O. in case I pick up gifts or something at the Duty Free shops. It is insanely strong and I also use one in my hiking pack to carry firewood. While I don’t consider myself an environmentalist, I try to do my part to minimize what I use that’s disposable and this fits the bill. 

Another awesome option is the Matador DL16 Packable Backpack constructed of a waterproof 30D Cordura. It is 18″ x 12″, an anaemic 4.5 oz and packs down to the size of an orange. While it doesn’t necessarily serve the same purpose as the CaB-2, it’s still a great secondary carry option. I often keep this in my carry-on luggage because, well, why not. It expands your capabilities and you give up VERY minimal luggage real estate.

I also use a variety of organizer pouches to compartmentalize my contents. I love PDW’s such offerings that work so well with the S.H.A.D.O. (and other packs). The Admin Organizer (AO2) to wrangle my cables and chargers and the Accessory Pod (AP) for extra pens, receipts and other miscellaneous items but it’s the Stash Pouch (SP1) that holds my “emergency most likely will never need but still carry” kit.

With that said, my go-to travel pouch is the Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof 3-1-1 Pouch . It is perfect for travel-sized toiletries, electronics, or any smaller items that you want to keep protected. I love the gusseted bottom – it allows for great volume but also creates a nice base that allows it to stand up. It’s completely waterproof and features their TRU® Zip technology. Some of the coolest and most functional zippers ever. 

There are several “EDC-type” items that I almost always carry when traveling. They seem to fall into three categories; Pocket Tools, Safety/Survival, and Convenience. Here are some awesome recommendations under each of those umbrellas.

Pocket Tool:

PDW’s PB&J : I find a bladeless multi-tool to be an absolute travel necessity and have been loving the PDW PB&J pocket tool. It is precision milled from 6AL-4V titanium and is light and easy to carry while still feeling substantial in hand. At 4.5″ long and 1″ wide it is relatively large and I feel it is much better suited for pack carry rather than pocket duty. I carry it in the front admin section of my S.H.A.D.O. pack or clip it to the external webbing which is exceptionally easy with the integrated wire spring gate. It packs nine functions into its refined form factor; closed end wrench (for both metric and SAE hardware), pry bar, small nail puller, bit driver, battery bay driver, oxygen tank wrench and bottle cap lifter to name a few. 

While I love all the features, the inclusion of metric and SAE sizing is fantastic when traveling. The overall utilitarian design is efficient and maximizes its space in a way that feels both comprehensive and uncluttered. The fact that it’s almost completely rustproof means it’s also very low-maintenance. The low-maintenance piece is also something I place a huge premium on when traveling. The PB&J has a million uses and has proven its worth more times than I can count.  

Peter Atwood P15 Prybaby : I also sometimes carry the Titanium Peter Atwood P15 Prybaby. It is smaller that the PB&J and doesn’t have quite the functionality but it’s still a great option. To be clear, I carry an Atwood Tool as much for nostalgia and sentimentality as utility and functionality. Don’t get me wrong, they are machined flawlessly and contain a whole lot of function in a fairly small form, but my affinity for them has as much if not more to do with the fact they are made in New England and were one of my most coveted items when first dipping my toe in the EDC pool. They contain no frills, have nothing you don’t need and are made to use. The Prybaby specifically just falls away in the coin pocket and provides easy access to a cap lifter, pry bar and several small wrench sizes. 

Safety/Survival:

Survival/Stash Tube: The PDW Ti-SST is a compact, weatherproof, survival tube milled from a 6AL-4V titanium billet. It has a built-in, oil filled button compass with a 100M depth rating and a milled inset striking channel with a waterproof 3M abrasive strip for matches. I utilize the neck/tube to wrap 3mm survival cordage and a bit of duct tape. The machining on this is amazing and at 4″ long, and just under 1″ wide it’s the perfect size for travel. The dimensions were specifically chosen to store standard strike anywhere matches, standard ferro rods, US Military issue sparking units, tinder and much more. The silicone O-ring ensures anything stored in this area stays dry. I like to store several strike anywhere matches, some tinder, and a couple fishing hooks. I’ve always kept a compact survival kit and the Ti-SST is the perfect storage container.

Triple Aught Design’s Life Capsule Omega also works really well. This doesn’t have the same level of functionality as the Ti-SST, but it’s a high-quality great option if you are looking for a stash tube. It is constructed from lightweight and durable aircraft grade T6 aluminum and was specifically designed dimensionally to hold the ubiquitous NATO SAS Compass.

Emergency Blanket: I carry the CountyComm Emergency blanket . Unopened it is about 3.5″ x 5″ but opens to 84″ x 52″. I hope to never need it but it’s just too important and too small to not carry on trips. If called into action, it should retain around 90% of your body heat and if it’s good enough for SAR crews all over the world, it’s good enough for me.

Fire Source: Due to my lack of proficiency in starting fires without tools, having a reliable lighter is a must and arguably my most crucial survival item. The Thyrm PyroVault Lighter Armor is also a great piece of kit and something I use regularly. It is compatible with classic Zippo inserts, the O-ring is huge while preventing fuel evaporation and the polymer is virtually indestructible. The PDW Ti-FS MK2 is a compact capsule lighter that uses lighter fluid, wheel, flint and wick. With an overall size of 1.875″ x 0.625″ it has a tiny footprint that can easily fit in any survival kit. The milled “grenade type” surface looks amazing and provides increased purchase in cold or wet conditions. PDW also provides a flint dispenser with extra flints, wick and O-rings should you need to replace anything (I have not yet). There are many lighters on the market, but this is by far and away the highest quality of any I’ve handled.

Convenience:

Hydration: Ultimately, this could have been included under the safety/survival section and I could list at least five quality bottle options. I have carried many but ultimately landed on the YETI Rambler 18oz . First, it functions flawlessly for its intended purpose. It keeps my drink cold most of the day and keeps my coffee hot longer than anything else I’ve tried. As I am sure you know, TSA prohibits liquid through security so I carry it empty until I get to the terminal (or my destination). If you go with the YETI, I STRONGLY recommend also getting the Rambler Chug Cap . It really helps to prevent spills on the go and makes the overall drinking experience much easier.

Travel Utensils: Who has two thumbs, has found themselves really hungry and with food but not the requisite utensils? This guy! I also have kids and you have not seen scary until you have incurred the wrath of a 2-year-old girl who just wants her yogurt but you forgot to pack a spoon. Essentially, these PDW Ti Takedown Chopsticks and PDW Folding Spork are not a necessity, but they are too small, cool and useful to not carry. And believe it or not, I have used them as much, if not more, than any other EDC item I carry. As an added bonus, you can’t possibly calculate the cool points garnered when sitting in your first class seat and ignoring the provided utensils in favor of pulling out a pair of custom chopsticks made of Titanium, Brass and Mahogany. 

Kidding aside, they come apart and take up virtually no space in my pack. I keep mine in the aforementioned Nite Ize pouch and take them out frequently during my trips to APAC. The folding titanium spork, at just under 4″ closed and under an oz is equally convenient. As with their entire hard goods line, awesome quality. I keep it in the SP1 but I also carry one in my day hiking pack. The market is flooded with travel sporks but I love the wire handle and locking slider folding feature and the company pedigree gives me confidence in the longevity. And with its amazing strength to weight ratio, Titanium will always be any traveler’s friend. There are a ton of options in this category but I have by far the most experience with these.

Storage: The PDW EDTC is a storage and travel case made of 600D Nylon and utilizing a reverse coil zipper. It was really designed to hold two EDC items like folders to watches but I also use mine for eyewear protection. As an EDC guy, I have utilized many different methods for carrying and protecting EDC items during travel. Who doesn’t love a good Pelican case? But who wants to take up crucial pack or luggage real estate with even a small version? Not the discerning traveler. 

I often wear a watch and pack a second. I also sometimes carry a nice torch or two. If I am on overnight travel where flying is not needed, I often carry a couple nice folders. The EDTC is literally the perfect solution to protect these EDC treasures. It is just over 6″ long and 2.4″ wide, utilizes a clamshell opening and has a no-scratch lining. The die cut EVA foam bumpers work great and the divider easily allows you to separate multiple items. A $15 cost to protect some of the items that have a value far beyond what you paid? It looks amazing, is unbeatable quality, easy to carry and fits in almost any pack admin section. Yeah, sign me up. 

Travel Jacket:

It just wouldn’t be a comprehensive travel write-up if it didn’t include travel-friendly clothing. Arguably the star of this first travel-friendly write-up is the Tycho Down Hoodie . This. Jacket. Is. Amazing. It is amazing if you never travel and only utilize it for fall and winter hikes. But it is also the perfect, and I mean perfect, travel-friendly outerwear layer. Let me explain.

The Tycho Down Hoodie uses DownTek™ Water Resistant Certified 850 Fill Power Goose Down and baffle construction to distribute it. The Down vs. Synthetic debate is as old as time and something I don’t necessarily want to go too in-depth on here. But essentially, synthetic insulation is supposed to replicate the qualities of down but retain them when wet. But synthetic insulation tends to have a higher weight-to-warmth ratio and can be heavier. With Tycho, PDW utilized state-of-the-art DownTek™ brand goose down which is hydrophobic, and stays drier 27 times longer than normal, run-of-the-mill goose down. The DWR treated 20D ripstop shell only adds to the weatherproofing of this jacket. 

While I definitely wouldn’t want to use it as a standalone outer layer in a rainstorm for an extended period of time, the Tycho will perform admirably in adverse weather conditions. I have been caught in more than one downpour and it kept me warm and dry. Also their baffles are not welded which can increase the jacket’s weight and can create cold spots. The brushed poly tricot hood liner is super comfortable and keeps your dome toasty. It utilizes YKK two-way reverse coil zippers which are industry standard in a garment of this quality. 

While looks are subjective, I think the jacket is gorgeous. It’s athletically cut but not restrictive at all (as I too often find jackets like this to be). The Universal Field Gray is a great color that can really take on the color of whatever you are wearing with it.

The materials and chosen construction methods make the Tycho an outdoor, backcountry champion and one I know I will keep in my arsenal for many years. But what really takes it to the next level and makes it a fantastic travel jacket is its compressibility and travel-friendly features. We have already established that maximizing ROI by carrying items with multiple use cases is an important part of selecting travel gear. Well, this thing packs down to almost nothing and serves multiple functions in its packed form. You can stuff it into its own built-in stuff-sack pocket which basically makes it an extremely comfortable and hydrophobic down pillow. 

On one international trip I arrived in-country early before my hotel room was ready. With almost 15 hours of travel under my belt and no sleep on the plane, I found a bench in the lobby, packed down my Tycho and had a pillow that worked far better than just a rolled-up jacket. The Tycho also includes a detachable stuff-sack that converts into a travel neck pillow. I generally don’t utilize a travel neck pillow and would never pack one. But to have one if needed that takes up zero space doesn’t hurt. On a trip with my wife, she just couldn’t get comfortable. I converted my Tycho to a neck pillow and she was sleeping inside of 10 minutes. Husband level – Expert. It has a total of six nicely placed pockets as well as a wire media passthrough port in the chest pocket. I tend to use AirPods but sometimes do use wired EarPods as a backup and the wire passthrough is a nice bonus. I should also add that the Tycho is RDS Certified which means it utilizes ethically harvested down and best practices used in animal welfare.

Travel is inherently stressful. You are away from home and without the comforts that go with it. There is plenty to worry about when you travel and gear that doesn’t function as intended shouldn’t be one of them. Prometheus Design Werx continues to impress me with the thoughtfully designed and flawlessly executed items they release. It wasn’t until I took personal inventory of the items I have been carrying that I truly realized how many PDW items are not just fantastic, but fantastic for travel. There is nothing worse than spending your hard-earned money on poor kit and it’s my sincere goal to recommend items that I can confidently say will provide you with amazing value. I am a subscriber to “pay more to never have to pay again” and I feel that way about my PDW goods.

As I said before, I look forward to future articles bringing you travel-friendly gear. As a bit of a teaser, I am currently testing a great piece of carry-on luggage and will provide a full write-up soon. I am also excited to share some additional clothing recommendations. As always, if there are any items you would love to have fully tested or you have any company recommendations, let us know. Until next time, safe travels. 

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A Glossary of Carry

5 Reasons I can’t find a great messenger bag

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9 Best Pieces of Lightweight Luggage, Tested & Reviewed

A great lightweight suitcase can make the whole "travel light" endeavor a little easier.

Here, we've rounded up some of the best tried-and-true luggage that is as lightweight as it gets. Not one of these bags is over 10 pounds, and the lightest is crazy light at 3.9 pounds. Obviously, the bigger the bag, the heavier it gets. So while most of these are carry-ons , their checked bag counterparts are also on board the lightweight luggage cause.

Best Investment Lightweight Luggage

Rimowa cabin.

Best Large Lightweight Luggage

Samsonite c-lite large spinner.

Best Softside Lightweight Luggage

Bric's x travel carry-on.

Whether you're prioritizing absolute weight, capacity, or smart design, one of these lightweight suitcases will improve your next trip immensely.

The love for Rimowa runs deep, and it's not just because of its status symbolism. Rimowa luggage is sleek, minimal, and virtually indestructible. Its aluminum frames are known for denting as part of the whole adventure, and part of the game that you're playing when it comes to airy aluminum luggage. But Rimowa also designed the classic Cabin bag in an even lighter polycarbonate (7 pounds, versus aluminum's 9) that's also a bit cheaper. For a lightweight suitcase that's a hefty investment, it's a Rimowa through and through.

Samsonite has been tinkering with its suitcase design for as long as it has been around, and this is a big suitcase with little weight to it. It's a nice 30.7"H x 21.5"W size but only 6.3 pounds, ensuring you can stuff it full of clothes and it won't feel any heavier than necessary. It's simple, clean, and reliable for years to come.

Bric's makes a reliable, lightweight, soft-sided carry-on for anyone who isn't into this hard-sided business. It's still water-resistant and durable, but it's naturally going to be more flexible than any hard-sided suitcase can be. It's a classic: The top unzips for access to the big inside pocket, rather than opening into two separate sides.

Briggs & Riley Global 21" 2-Wheel Carry-On Duffle

Briggs & Riley's carry-on is part duffle, part suitcase. The soft-sided top unzips to reveal a huge space for packing in the middle, and there are some smaller organizational pockets, too. Carry it by the strap on front for a duffle style, or pull it on its two wheels. For shorter trips where you spend a lot of time carrying or moving your luggage, this one makes the process smoother.

Calpak Ambeur Medium Luggage

For minimalist, medium-sized luggage, Calpak is a no-brainer. This suitcase is roomy on the inside and sturdy on the outside. It expands up to 2 inches, too, if you happen to acquire things in your travels. Nine pounds is fairly light for a medium-sized suitcase, but this one is also available in a carry-on (mini, pocket, and regular), large, and as part of a matching set.

July Carry On Light

Extraordinarily lightweight luggage is kind of travel brand July's whole schtick. And it is no joke: This carry-on weighs just 3.9 pounds (!). It has a polycarbonate shell, with a water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining.

Tumi International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On

If you're trying to get the most reliable, straightforward luggage once and call it a day for the next 10 or so years, get a Tumi. It doesn't feel quite as luxe as, say, a Rimowa, but it still feels damn good. This option is sleek, reliable, and, while pricey, won't ever break in your travels.

Quince Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase

Now, if you're not ready for an investment suitcase and just want something that can get the job done, Quince's carry-on is a solid lightweight option. It's generally straightforward, no extra bells or whistles to speak of, and it transports your stuff as intended. Although the polycarbonate is indeed light, it (along with the zippers) can feel a bit cheap.

Monos Carry-On Plus

I've owned a lot of suitcases in my lifetime, and my Monos is my favorite. It makes me feel like I have my shit together, the way wearing a $200 outfit to the gym makes me feel like I have my shit together. Do I need to do this? No. But do I feel good with a pretty suitcase that has a few extra inches of precious shoe space? You bet.

Honorable Mentions

I know, shocking that this is an internet story on suitcases and there isn't an Away suitcase in here. It's nothing against Away—I still have a tiny carry-on I've been using for years—but it's just kind of tiring to see the same suitcase everywhere you go, and it's not noticeably lighter (or cheaper) than any of its peers.

What to Look For

For lightweight, hard-sided suitcases, polycarbonate reigns supreme on being the most effective combination of sturdy but light. It's also going to be cheaper than still lightweight (though not as light) aluminum. There are also some soft-sided suitcases made of ballistic nylon or other polyester blends that keep it light.

Of course, your smaller bags will, hopefully obviously, be lighter in weight. Make sure to look not just at the "size" (as in carry-on or medium) but the dimensions. Different brands have slightly different sizing. And if you're looking for lightness at all costs, the smaller sizes are great. But if you want a bigger size of these options, you'll be veering closer to 9, 10, and 11 pounds.

Why Trust Esquire

Our luggage knowledge spreads far and wide. Some of these bags we have been testing for years—and we do the work on them. I am, for one, am no light packer, no dainty suitcase user at all. We've worn in and worn out the best of them so you don't have to.

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Effortless Gent

What Your Everyday Carry Needs (Our Top 10 EDC Essentials)

The whole point of an everyday carry is making sure you stay prepared for anything by keeping the most crucial pieces of gear on you at all times. But, how do you decide what to include in your everyday carry (or EDC)? 

To help you figure this out, we’ve edited down our top 10 EDC essentials right here.

Of course, use this list as you see fit. After all, what’s essential to me might not be essential to you, and you only have a limited amount of room in your pockets, vehicle, and maybe even a dedicated bag for your everyday carry. 

Whether you’re putting together a minimal list of everyday carry essentials or need tips on curating an urban everyday carry list more suited for city life, this list should round your selection out nicely.

EDC Essentials: A Top 10 EG-Approved List

A great wallet.

We know this is stating the obvious but if you live in the 21st century, then you need a wallet in your EDC to keep your identity cards, credit cards, and cash on hand. 

Having said that, it’s time to get rid of that cumbersome tri-fold and replace it with an alternative that’s more streamlined and easy to carry.

Metal cash straps and bifolds can sink into your pocket with zero bulk, making them an office edc essential . RFID-blocking technology can help keep your personal information and data protected from being collected.

We chose our military-grade materials for their durability and, in turn, created a wallet that’ll last a lifetime — guaranteed.

The Ridge Metal Aluminum is a fine example of a slim cash strap-style wallet. A high-quality metal card case with an external elastic strap for carrying cash and other small items, it has a minimalist and industrial-grade aesthetic.

The inside is designed to handle up to 12 cards and it has RFID shielding.

A scaled-down antiqued YSL monogram pops against the textured calfskin leather of this handsome Italian-made wallet that sleekly organizes the essentials.

The YSL Monogram Bifold Leather Wallet is another slim and sleek example. This elegant Italian wallet is hand-crafted from textured calfskin leather. It neatly organizes the basics and exudes an air of sophistication.

A small (But Sharp) Pocket Knife

The pinnacle of an everyday carry is a pocket knife that’s both compact and practical. 

You’ll be amazed at how often you find yourself reaching for your knife, whether it’s to remove yourself from a potentially dangerous situation or just to slice a piece of fruit for yourself. 

Great companion for hunters, business professionals, wilderness guides, survival experts, first responders, military, law-enforcement and more

The Zero Tolerance knife , for example, has a steel blade with remarkable toughness and resistance to edge chipping, in addition to excellent edge-retention capabilities. 

Furthermore, it has a handle that is made of carbon fiber on the front and titanium with a stonewashed finish on the back. This gives it a fantastic size-to-weight ratio , a pleasant feel in the hand, and enhanced strength.

A Sturdy Carabiner (or Keyholder)

At its simplest, a carabiner is a metal loop equipped with a screwed gate or a spring gate. It’s used to quickly keep components of a system together.

It’s basically the same concept as a leveled-up keychain, with easy reversibility, meaning the items are as easy to put in the loop as they are to take out.

It can also be used to connect items to a harness, making it one of the most practical organizers you can have.

Instead of having three carabiners clipped to a single bolt, the Vlad lets you clip your belay device, gear storage, and P. A. S. off the bolts for better organization.

The Grivel Vlad is a D-shaped locking carabiner that’s machined from a single block of aluminum, and the anodized finish guarantees that it won’t deteriorate or corrode like cheaper metals.

If this is too much for your style, we like the sleek Offset Keyring as an alternative, from Craighill.

A Reliable, Portable Flashlight

From actual crises to simply looking for something you dropped in a tight corner, a portable flashlight or torch is helpful to have on you in a variety of different contexts and situations—it’s the single most important item to have in the dark . 

After all, you don’t want to get caught off guard by an unexpected situation in the dead of night.

A customer favorite and our go-to home flashlight, the P7R is powerful, customizable and always ready; It’s a great choice for everyday household tasks and emergency preparedness

The ever-dependable Ledlenser P7R is a 1,000-lumen flashlight with a beam that reaches almost 700 feet, and a 40-hour run time on low power mode. Insanely bright and strong for such a small flashlight.

A Handy Multitool

A multi-tool is the ultimate form of insurance. They come equipped with a variety of instruments, such as miniature scissors, a screwdriver, a pocket knife, and even a bottle opener. 

In one compact package, a multi-tool enables you to do tasks such as tightening a bolt, opening a package, cutting a cable, and cracking open a cold beer. 

Crafted from elegant, sustainable European walnut wood, each knife is unique, thanks to the rich natural patina of the wood. With this knife you’ll feel confident, capable and free to follow your own path.

Victorinox is synonymous with the multi-tool since they make the quintessential Swiss Army knife.

Their Hiker Wood Knife features 11 different functions including two different sized blades, a wire stripper, and even a wood saw. Plus, the handle is a beautiful and sustainable European walnut wood, meaning each has a unique natural patina.

It’s also pretty cool that Victorinox makes these style-forward Limited Editions multi-tools .

A Tactical Pen

It doesn’t matter whether you need to sign a document or if you just want to scribble something, having a pen with you at all times is an absolute must. 

Besides, how many times have you pulled out your phone to write something down on your notes app, only to fall down a scroll hole? It’s practically unavoidable.

Quick and easy access with the convenient pocket clip and screw-off top making it ideal for everyday carry

There are also a lot of pens on the market that can be used for self-defense. 

The Smith and Wesson Tactical Pen , for example, not only features an ergonomic grip construction (those of you who think you have bad penmanship will be surprised to see how much this will help!), but is made from aircraft aluminum and is equipped with a self-defense end.

A Small Notebook

Again, it may be annoying to have to pull out your phone to compose a message, not to mention impolite. It’s not always clear that someone is paying attention to you when they’re looking at a screen the whole time. 

That’s why it’s helpful to carry a notepad that you can use to scribble down important ideas and thoughts as they come to you during the day. 

Use this stylish notebook as a space to organise your days and thoughts. A cute notebook that can function as both a secret diary and a to do list pad, keeping your days on track and your mind in check.

One of the notebooks with the most positive reviews on Amazon is the Dingbats A5 Medium Notebook . 

One reviewer, for instance, mentions how the book has a wonderful feel to it and how well-constructed it is. The durability of the elastics and the single bookmark ribbon has been lauded in several other reviews as well.

For EDC especially, durability is of the utmost importance when it comes to notebooks. You don’t want it falling apart in the button of your bag or in the face of unexpected weather .

A Reusable Water Bottle

It’s essential for your health and well-being to carry fresh, clean water in a reusable water bottle. It’s far more likely that you’ll keep yourself hydrated during the day if you carry a water bottle with you. 

Embodying translucent hues in the purest form, the Stone Collection emulates the most coveted semi-precious gems. Featured in a durable stone-like texture for added grip, the muted color palette simulates the raw delicacy of the minerals.

Drinking enough water has been shown to influence a person’s temperature, mood, joint health, and the condition of their muscles, in addition to staving off dehydration, of course. 

The Onyx Bottle from S’Well comes in three sizes, is free of BPA and BPS, and keeps your cold drinks cold and warm drinks warm.

Our lightweight, single-wall wide mouth bottles are designed for easy cleaning, carrying and chugging, up for just about any adventure.

For something bigger, we also love the Klean Kanteen Wide 27 oz , which is lightweight and made from 90% recycled stainless steel.

A Handsome Watch

A watch of sufficient caliber is an essential part of any EDC kit. Of course, your smartphone is perfectly capable of providing you with the current time, but a watch may provide you with a variety of other capabilities that you might want at any given time.

Plus, there’s a reason we’ve covered watches so much here on Effortless Gent! They’re a style essential.

Orient and Seiko are known for their high-value automatics, so they’re a good place to start when looking for a watch . 

The Bambino is one of Orient’s most popular watches and in 2022, they responded to a lot of fan requests by creating this 7th version with a 38mm case. This is more inline with the proper dress watch sizing, and isn’t too small for bigger wrists.

We’re big fans of Orient’s 2nd Gen Bambino Version III , which is a timeless dress watch . With its 100 meters of water resistance and impact-resistant domed crystal though, it’s form and function in one.

The Seiko 5 Sports SRPG39 is a classic field watch that’s legible and durable. However, it’s flawless finishing and royal blue dial ups the elegance factor a notch.

A Paracord Bracelet

Paracord is a survival essential, though the raw material isn’t the most compact and practical for most guys. Paracord bracelets , on the other hand, are stylish and utilitarian and often have secondary practical uses.

The more intense versions may be equipped with a fire starter, a cutting blade, an LED light, or even a handcuff key, among other things.

The Friendly Swede’s fishtail paracord bracelets are premium quality accessories. With those wonderfully braided and colourful bracelets you are able to express your unique eye-catching lifestyle.

This Fish Tail Bracelet from Friendly Swede is a more wearable everyday accessory though, which goes well with any casual outfit .

In a worst case scenario, it can be unraveled and used as rope to secure cargo or fix broken straps, but mostly, it looks cool.

FAQs About EDC, or eVeryday CArry

What are the most vital items to have in your edc kit.

Typical basics for an everyday carry (EDC) include a pocket knife, flashlight, pen, and multitool. However, there are a wide variety of choices and combinations that you may carry to fill out your EDC kit, depending on your lifestyle.

What size knife is best for EDC?

It’s advisable that the blade length of an EDC pocket knife be no longer than 3.5 inches, and the entire weight shouldn’t exceed 4.5 ounces. There are indeed larger and more powerful performers available, but the point of an EDC isn’t necessarily to have the most powerful performance. Rather, it’s to have the most powerful performance in a practical package.

What are The top 10 Essentials in Your EDC?

Everyone has a unique lifestyle and the items you keep in your everyday carry should reflect that. If you’re having trouble deciding what to include in your EDC, these 10 basics are worth considering for sure.

We hope that was helpful!

What do you carry on your person at all times? Feel free to DM us on Instagram with any EDC questions or topics you’d like us to cover!

Published on August 11, 2022 , Updated on August 17, 2023

Category: Accessories

Tags: Buying Guides , Everyday Carry (EDC)

About Us @ EG

Effortless Gent helps elder millennial men dress better by focusing on effortless, obtainable, everyday style. Effortless Gent has practical style advice for 40+ year old guys who can’t relate to Gen-Z style on social media, newish dads who wanna shed their comfy clothes, and seasoned, established men looking to level up their look.

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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.

Find your adventure essentials at Public Lands. Check it out →

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).

Our editors carefully select every product we recommend. We may earn a commission from these links. Learn more

The Absolute Best EDC Backpacks on the Market

By: Gray Van Dyke Published: Jun 16, 2023

By: Gray Van Dyke and Tim Huber Published: Jun 16, 2023

Contributors

When it comes to gear of any type, everyday carry or otherwise, the bag category is one of the most ubiquitous. After all, most humans need a means of transporting items from one place to another — be that your mobile technology, school books, food, supplies, or whatever else. And there’s no denying the usefulness of a traditional backpack therein. In fact, backpacks are probably one of the most commonly available pieces of EDC gear, second perhaps only to wallets .

That can be both good and bad news. It’s good news in the sense that — no matter your lifestyle, preferences, desires, and budget — there’s a perfect backpack out there somewhere for you. It’s bad news in the sense that the sheer number of options can be exceedingly overwhelming, to the point that you might not know where to start. Well, we did the heavy lifting for you in that regard, so strap in and have a gander at our list of the best EDC backpacks for men. Whether you’re a city slicker with a flair for technology or a mountain man hoofing it from cabin to campfire, you’ll find the ideal everyday backpack for your daily life here.

The Best EDC Backpack Breakdown

Toughest Pack

Best Student Pack

Bellroy Classic Backpack

Best Minimalist Pack

Aer City Pack

Best Weatherproof Pack

Black Ember Citadel R2

Editor’s Pick

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L V2

Best Photography Pack

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

Best Small-Batch Backpack

The Brown Buffalo ConcealPack 21L

Best Cycling/Commuter Pack

Mission Workshop The Rhake VX Backpack

What makes a good edc backpack.

Needing to withstand the stresses and rigors of daily use while safely accommodating all of your gear and tech essentials , everyday carry backpacks need to tick a number of boxes that regular packs don’t. As such, it can be a little tricky knowing what to look for when shopping. Well aware of this reality, however, we’ve pieced together this condensed buyer’s guide on the main things to look for when buying an EDC pack. 

Video Review: The Best EDC Backpacks

Perhaps you’re more of a visual learner? We’ve got you covered with our in-depth best EDC backpack video review.

Overall Design: EDC backpacks come in all manner of different forms, from zip-ups to roll-tops to everything in between. This makes it absolutely essential to review the general design and layout of any bag you’re considering. In fact, designs and layouts can play a major role in what makes a bag special or unique — as evidenced by models like the GORUCK GR1 and Mission Workshop Rhake. 

Size: EDC bags should be just big enough to comfortably accommodate all of your daily essentials, without being overly large or bulky. Unlike larger travel backpacks, EDC-specific backpacks tend to offer around 15 to 25 liters of internal storage space, though there are obviously outliers that are slightly bigger or smaller — as well as certain EDC packs that are available in multiple sizes. And while they aren’t as common in the EDC segment, there are also some packs that are expandable. 

Primary Materials: On top of its design, the single factor that plays the biggest role in determining a bag’s overall quality is undoubtedly the materials used to construct it — the most important of which is the pack’s shell construction (or primary material). Considering the fact they need to withstand the rigors of daily use, EDC bags tend to be crafted from hardwearing constructions like ballistic-grade nylon or waxed canvas, though there are also bags made from proprietary materials like CORDURA and Dyneema. It’s also worth checking into whether or not a bag’s shell material has been bestowed with any type of fortifying treatment such as a PU or DWR coating or finish. 

Secondary Materials: While admittedly not quite as crucial as a bag’s shell construction, secondary materials do also play a role in deterring a bag’s overall quality. This includes elements such as a backpack’s shoulder straps, back pad, grab handles, and liner material, just to name a few. 

Hardware & Trim: Practically every EDC bag on the market will sport at least some hardware or trim elements. Because these items can massively vary in terms of quality and performance, it’s also essential to review an EDC bag’s hardware and trim. This includes buckles and fasteners, as well as zipper tracks. Trim can also include logo patches and labels.

Organizational Amenities: As backpacks that are designed to hold all of your daily gear and essentials, an EDC backpack’s organizational amenities are also of extreme importance. This not only includes the number of different pockets, but also if each pocket or cavity contains any internal pockets, slips, loops, or other elements for organizing and storing contents. What’s more, you’ll also want to examine each model’s laptop accommodation, checking if the laptop pocket is padded or suspended, and what size notebooks it can fit. 

Weatherproofing: One way in which EDC packs are definitely not created equal in is their ability to stand up to the elements. A backpack’s ability to withstand rain and snow largely boils down to the shell material, if that material has any type of fortifying treatment and the type of zipper tracks or closure that’s being utilized. 

Selection & Testing Process

How & Why We Got Hands-On With These Particular Field Watches

As an organization, HCONSUMPTION possesses a major proclivity for and expertise in a wide range of subjects, from architecture to style to tech. With that said, our greatest passions are undoubtedly in motorsport and everyday carry. Being intimately familiar with the EDC carry solution segment, we’re readily aware of the key players in the EDC bag space, allowing us to begin our search by first looking into the latest and greatest offerings from our go-to brands, before diving into supplementary research in order to ensure we didn’t overlook any crucial picks. 

While we definitely took the reputation of each brand into account, our selections much more heavily relied on factors such as size and shape, primary and secondary materials, trim and hardware, build quality, and overall design. Additionally, we also factored style and aesthetics into the equation when making our selections. This only comprises the first half of our in-house evaluation, as after making a calculated and informed hypothesis of what we expected to be the best EDC bags on the market, we then began the hands-on field-testing portion of our overall process. 

Unlike duffels and travel bags that can more easily be understood after being used only a few times, to fully wrap your head around and understand an EDC-specific pack, you really do need to extensively use these bags on a daily basis for an extended period. Ample real-world experience with each EDC backpack has enabled us to glean critical firsthand information on each bag that goes beyond the spec sheet, keying us into each model’s comfort, fit and finish, build quality, durability, and the efficacy and practicality of each design — along with whether their features are genuinely useful and practical or are merely superfluous. 

Thanks to the benefit of time, we’ve now had over a year to get hands-on with each of these everyday backpacks since penning our previous best EDC backpacks guide, which has afforded us an unparalleled overall sense of each bag’s quality and performance — as well as how it stacks up against the competition. This also provided a much better sense of each model’s durability and long-term performance. 

Our Picks For The Finest Packs

• Flat-lay-opening design inspired by Spec-Ops medical packs
• Unparalleled mil-spec durability & build quality
• Made in America & protected by lifetime warranty
• Also offered in heritage waxed canvas & X-Pac VX-21 shell versions
• Doesn’t feature waist & sternum straps
• Harness system lacks support

Toughest Pack: In spite of the fact that the GORUCK GR1 has been around for a while, it continues to be one of the best backpacks ever imagined — regardless of the purpose. And our list of the best everyday carry backpacks simply would not be complete without acknowledging this outstanding carry solution. Along with its military-inspired styling and construction, including MOLLE webbing and a ballistic nylon exterior, this backpack also has a signature bombproof (literally) laptop sleeve, a removable frame sheet, plenty of organization, and more. Plus, it’s TSA compliant, making it great for travel, and made in the USA.

Check out our in-depth review of the  GORUCK GR1 21L Backpack here .

Capacity: 21L or 26L Exterior Material: 1000D Cordura Ballistic Nylon or 500D Cordura Ballistic Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 16″

• Updated version of already immensely popular pack
• Sleek minimalist design
• Sustainably manufactured from eco-friendly materials
• Shell material is water-resistant & derived from recycled content
• Shell material lacks durability compared to other bags on this list
• Limited organizational amenities

Best Student Pack: For a refined spin on the classic book bag, you absolutely cannot go wrong with the Bellroy Classic Backpack. It features a middle-of-the-road 20L capacity — perfect for the average collection of work gear — alongside other impressive additions like a recycled polyester weave construction (go sustainability), a laptop pocket, a soft-lined, water-resistant top pocket, and a built-in key leash for quick access while on the go. Oh, and it’s entirely TSA compliant — should you want to take it traveling. Bellroy also sells this pack in a plethora of different color options, as well as in a more top-shelf Premium Edition variant.

Capacity: 16L, 20L, or 24L Exterior Material: Recycled Polyester Laptop Sleeve: 16″

• Ultra-rugged pack engineered from ground up for EDC
• Equipped w/ top-shelf hardware & custom t
• Makes for a great travel backpack
• Also offered in X-Pac VX-42 shell version
• Poorly-designed luggage handle pass-through (though not a problem for EDC use)

Best Minimalist Pack: San Francisco-based baggage specialist Aer is known for its characteristically minimalist backpacks, but the brand outdid even itself with the launch of the City Pack. While it’s a touch smaller than some of our other options at just 14L, it’s packed to the gills with organizational provisions. What’s more, the City Pack comes with some pretty handy features, including a built-in AirTag pocket and a soft-lined top pocket, as well as a contoured back panel and an integrated luggage pass-through.

Check out our in-depth review of the  Aer City Pack here .

Capacity: 14L Exterior Material: 1680D Cordura Ballistic Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 16″

• Shell composed of 100% waterproof 800D 3-layer Microhex textile
• Equipped w/ ultra-premium trim & hardware
• Features fully-blacked-out finish
• Can house laptops up to 15”
• Compatible w/ wide array of available add-ons
• Unique but strange exterior water bottle holder design

Best Weatherproof Pack: These days, most backpacks are built with at least some degree of weather resistance; it’s pretty much expected at this point. Never content to sit amongst the pack, however, Black Ember designed the Citadel R2 to be IPX6 waterproof, pairing a unique RF-welded construction with some YKK AquaGuard zippers and Microhex 800D three-layer membrane fabric. And they didn’t stop there; the straps are highly modular — adjustable top and bottom — while the inside boasts some of the best organization that we’ve seen on a bag of this size. The company also sells a wide range of optional add-ons that are compatible with the Citadel R2.

Check out our in-depth review of the  Black Ember Citadel R2 Backpack here .

Capacity: 25L Exterior Material: MICROHEX 800D Laptop Sleeve: 15″

• Made in small batches by boutique brand
• Crafted from a custom-developed shell material
• High-end hardware & details
• Can house laptops up to 17″
• Can be difficult to buy in between drops

Editor’s Pick: After proving their mettle at GORUCK and Patagonia, Jack Barly and Kevin Dee decided it was high time that they start a backpack project of their own: Evergoods. Out of their combined experience arrive top-quality bags like the CPL24, a super-streamlined everyday city option filled with features galore. Carry-on compliant, it sports an asymmetrical laptop holder, Zote foam shoulder straps, and an internal harness system — amongst many other unique offerings. Honestly, the pack has so much going on, that the only way to truly appreciate its design is to get it in your hands (or on your back).

Check out our in-depth review of the  Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 Backpack here .

Capacity: 24L Exterior Material: 500D High Tenacity Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 17″

• Award-winning EDC-specific photographers pack
• Super clever & intuitive layout
• Super modular internal organizer system
• Sold in 4 color options & in 20L or 30L sizes
• Not ideal for non-photographers

Best Photography Pack: Peak Design’s Everyday Backpack has roped in numerous accolades in its time, including a Carryology award for the Best Active Backpack — which is certainly something genuine everyday carry enthusiasts will find appealing. Of course, even if it had never been entered into contention, this structured, beautifully-considered, and well-organized backpack would still be a tremendous find. That goes double if you’re interested in photography , as its internal divider system lends itself excellently to photo gear. Of course, you could also use it for anything else, including travel, office tech — really, the list is too long to fit here.

Capacity: 20L or 30L Exterior Material: DWR-Impregnated, Recycled 400D Nylon Canvas Laptop Sleeve: 13″-15″

• Latest gen design benefits from ample public feedback
• Manufactured in California
• Can be upgraded w/ host of available organizers, inserts, & add-ons

Best Small-Batch Backpack: Douglas Davidson (the man behind The Brown Buffalo) is an absolute legend in the backpack space , so we just had to include one of his bags in our roundup. In the case of the ConcealPack pictured here, you’re getting a tough 1050D Ballistic Nylon shell, a Dimension-Polyant VX25 and VX21 fabric interior, and ample amounts of velcro to customize your carry. Designed to keep everything safely within its confines, the ConcealPack offers a masterclass in what backpacks can be. Best of all, this bag is crafted in small batches as the company’s California headquarters.

Check out our in-depth review of The Brown Buffalo ConcealPack 21L here .

Capacity: 21L Exterior Material: 1050D Cordura Ballistic Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 15″

• Super (& super premium) unique roll-top bag design
• Tremendously weatherproof
• Ultra-high-end construction & hardware
• Absolutely stellar organizational amenities
• Can store a laptop & tablet (or 2 laptops)
• Very expensive price
• HT 500D Nylon version doesn’t come standard w/ Cobra buckles

Best Cycling/Commuter Pack: Cyclists and commuters can sometimes have a rough go of things while in transit from one place to another, but those journeys are much more manageable if you utilize the unrivaled Mission Workshop Rhake backpack as your go-to carry solution. It’s cleverly designed with organization for your laptop computer, iPad, phone, chargers, keys, sunglasses, water bottle, and more. And it’s entirely weatherproof to ensure that everything you stash inside of it stays safe and dry, regardless of what the conditions are like outside. In addition to an available Cobra buckle upgrade, Mission Workshop also produces an even more high-end X-Pac VX-21 construction version that comes standard with FIDLOCK front buckles.

Check out our in-depth review of the  Mission Workshop Rhake backpack here .

Capacity: 22L Exterior Material: HT500 Nylon (or VX-21) Laptop Sleeve: 17″

Supplementary EDC Pack Picks

Topo Designs Rover Pack Tech

Topo’s Rover Pack is already one of our favorite backpacks, but when the brand released the Tech edition, we knew we were in for an EDC treat. It still has all the hallmarks of the original — including its flip-top closure, compression straps, and rectangular silhouette — but now it’s crafted from 1000D nylon , comes with an externally accessible laptop sleeve, features weatherproof zippers, and even has attachment points at the front for modular additions (like a bike light, carabiner clip, etc.). And you have your pick of four handsome colorways, too.

Capacity: 24.3L Exterior Material: 1000D Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 15″

Incase ICON Slim Backpack

The Incase ICON is one of the best bags around, especially when it comes to short-form travel. However, for everyday usage, we actually prefer the pared-down Slim version, as you see here. It boasts many of the same features, but in a more svelte 16L capacity that’s a bit more conducive to day-to-day life. That includes things like a polyester-based Woolenex exterior (which is naturally weather-resistant), a fully-padded and faux-fur-lined laptop sleeve and separate glasses pocket, and plenty of unique organizational compartments accessible both inside and out.

Capacity: 14.5L Exterior Material: Polyester Laptop Sleeve: 16″

Mystery Ranch Urban Assault Pack

Proof positive that tactical features can be beautifully integrated into more everyday carry-friendly gear, Mystery Ranch’s Urban Assault Pack looks like it belongs in the city but has features you might likelier find in a battlefield-born bag. For starters, it comes with a rugged Cordura nylon exterior — imbuing it with a measure of weatherproofing, as well as puncture and slash resistance. It also has a plastic frame sheet to give it structure, a full-opening triple-zip main compartment (ideal for speedy access, as well as compartmental organization), and more. Of course, it also has city-friendly additions, like water bottle and laptop pockets, too.

Capacity: 24L Exterior Material: 500D Cordura Ballistic Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 15″

Arktype Dashpack II

For many folks, a loadout of everyday carry gear and work supplies need not eclipse the high-liter mark — making a bag like the Arktype Dashpack II (with its compact 15L capacity) a much better option than much of its competition. Small, however, does not mean sacrificing quality or toughness. You see, this USA-made backpack is built from sturdy DWR-coated 1680D ballistic nylon, putting it in the same vein as some of the best tactical bags around and giving it a wide variety of resistances and durabilities. It also boasts a stellar internal organizational system that’s even tech-friendly, with both a dedicated laptop pocket and a tablet sleeve . And those are just some of the many, many excellent features.

Capacity: 15L Exterior Material: 1680D DWR Ballistic Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 15″

Tom Bihn Synapse 19 Backpack

Versatility is the name of the game when it comes to the Tom Bihn Synapse 19 Backpack. And we mean that as literally as we can, because the brand built this backpack to be used in the city, office, trails, commuting, and everywhere in-between. And while it comes standard with much of the features you’d expect from a backpack of this nature, it also boasts some of the most customizable options of any on our list — including over a dozen different color combinations, two different exterior materials, and two optional organizational inclusions. But what really makes this bag stand apart is that it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Capacity: 19L Exterior Material: 525D Ballistic Nylon or 400D Halcyon Laptop Sleeve: Up to 13″ (Optional)

Filson Dryden Ballistic Nylon Backpack

If you’re the type to appreciate heritage styling, but you still want a bag with modern sensibilities, you definitely can’t go wrong with the Filson Dryden Ballistic Nylon Backpack you see here. It might look like something to have been passed down for multiple generations, but it’s actually made from super-durable state-of-the-art Cordura ballistic nylon (as the name suggests). Furthermore, it comes with a padded 15″ laptop pocket (accessible from outside), top-grain leather accents and zipper pulls, and a padded back and straps for all-day comfort.

Capacity: 25.5L Exterior Material: 1000D Cordura Ballistic Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 15″

KILLSPENCER Utility Backpack

If you’re a fan of traditionally-styled bookbags, like those made by JanSport and Herschel, but your pockets are a good deal deeper than necessary, you can have all that same styling in a much more elevated package with the Killspencer Utility Backpack. Made in the USA from premium Italian leather and nylon (and accented with 4,000lb test mil-spec webbing), this pack also has a handy internal organizational scheme — including a padded, externally-accessible laptop pocket capable of holding up to a 15″ MacBook Pro.

Capacity: 21.3L Exterior Material: Italian Leather & Nylon Laptop Sleeve: 15″

The Best Sling Bags for EDC

While these backpacks make the perfect choice for a dependable daily companion, sometimes you just need something a bit more compact. In that case, it’s worth taking a look at our guide to the best sling bags on the market.

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tomtoc Compact EDC Sling Bag, 4L Minimalist Chest Shoulder Backpack Crossbody Sling Bag for Men and Women, Water-resistant Lightweight Everyday Carry Casual Bag for Tactical, Travel, Work, Gym, Sport

S/4L(Fits iPad Mini)

M/7L (Fits 11-inch iPad Pro)

L/10L(Fits up to 14-inch MacBook)

Purchase options and add-ons

• [Lightweight and Stylish] External Dimensions:12.20" x 5.90" x 2.95"; This compact sling bag is not only a fashion statement, but also provides a convenient way to carry the essentials while exploring the city or traveling the world; Made of Cordura Ballistic Nylon. Incredibly sturdy, lightweight and water-resistant with heavy-duty durability. YKK zipper for secure and long-lasting usage.
• [For Every Situation] Made with minimalists in mind, you can cruise along with all your necessities, without huffing and puffing about the inconvenience of carrying a bag. 4 L storage with dimensions: 12.20" x 5.90" x 2.95", perfect for city day trips, long walks or sightseeing.
• [Multi-functional Storage] Features three compartments. Quick access front pocket for AirPods Pro, credit cards; Multiple internal pockets in the middle for tech devices, such as Kindle, Power Bank, cable etc. ; Hidden back pocket for your mobile phone or passport.
• [Comfortable and Convenient] The ergonomic, single-strap design ensures the pack’s load is carried close to your body for optimal comfort. Duraflex buckles allow you to wear the sling bag comfortably and take off the bag quickly when passing the security inspection.
• [What You Get] : Black sling bag, worry-free 12-month warranty, and our friendly customer service. (Other accessories are not included, for demonstration purpose only)

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Product Description

Minimalist EDC Sling Bag

This compact sling bag is not only a fashion statement but also provides a convenient way to carry the essentials while exploring the city or traveling the world; Made of Cordura Ballistic Nylon. Incredibly sturdy, lightweight, and water-resistant with heavy-duty durability. YKK zipper for secure and long-lasting usage.

Multi-functional Storage

Multiple internal pockets in the middle for tech devices, such as iPad mini, Kindle, Power Bank, cable, notebook, etc. Everything is safely stowed away and ready to hand.

Dimensions: 12.2 x 5.91 x 2.95 inches; volumen: 4 L; adjustable shoulder strap length: 29.53-45.28 inches

Practical Front Pocket

Quick access front pocket with a key ring, practical for AirPods Pro, credit cards.

Convenient Back Pocket

Hidden back pocket for your mobile phone, passport, or wallet.

YKK Zipper Innovative Single Shoulder

Made with top-branding reliable YKK Zippers, durable enough to serve a long-lasting life span.

Duraflex Buckle

Allow you to wear the sling bag comfortably and take off the bag quickly when passing the security inspection.

Innovative Single Shoulder Design

The special design of the shoulder bag makes everything easier and faster on the go. when you pull it in the front to take out your accessories, this sling bag will be horizontal, which avoids any possibility of dropping off your precious articles.

Extension Shoulder Strap(Sold Separately)

The maximum adjustable length of the shoulder strap is about 45.28 inches. If necessary, you can also purchase a tomtoc extension shoulder strap.

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Customers say

Customers like the pockets, comfort, fit, portability and quality of the waist pack. For example, they mention the main compartment offers ample space for your essentials, the padded strap is both comfortable and adjustable, and it has a very nice hand feel. They say it's a great bag for some light traveling and sightseeing, and the shoulder strap makes it easy to carry for a long time.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the waist pack. They mention that it's well-made, built to last, and holds up to the elements as advertised. The materials and zippers are sturdy, and it looks good. Overall, customers are happy with the value and functionality of the product.

"...and passports close to you and easily accessible, it works for just casual every day use . The age of man purses is among us." Read more

"Pros: -Great quality . -Pockets and inner separators. -YKK zippers are always great to have. -Color is very nice...." Read more

"...Its durability , organization features, comfortable sling design, and attention to detail make it a reliable and stylish companion for your daily..." Read more

"... Materials on the bag are nice , the bag does looks cool...." Read more

Customers find the pockets in the waist pack to be ample, versatile, and functional. They say the main compartment offers space for their essentials, such as a camera, a small tablet, and the pockets are neither too many nor too few. Some say the pockets can hold a lot and are easy to wear. They also mention that the dividers and pockets are sleek and sleek.

"Easy to adjust, very comfortable on a 5'11 195 lb male. Fits all my essentials with room to spare, but is designed in a way in such a way that it..." Read more

"Pros: -Great quality. -Pockets and inner separators . -YKK zippers are always great to have. -Color is very nice...." Read more

"...The main compartment offers ample space for your essentials, such as a camera, a small tablet, a water bottle, and other everyday items...." Read more

"... Love all the inner pockets , you can never have enough and the rear exterior zip pocket..." Read more

Customers like the fit of the waist pack. They mention that it fits quite a bit, and is small enough to not get in the way but can hold a lot. Some say that the strap width is very nice, and the bag sits comfortably cross their chest and stomach. They also appreciate the zippers, saying that they glide smoothly, securing their essentials without any snagging.

"... Small enough to be ergonomic and useful for daily use, but it somehow fit a Nintendo, my keys wallet, gum, mints, eyedrops, passport, keys, lotion..." Read more

"...Will buy another in black. -Strap width is very nice , does not seem like a cheap strap...." Read more

"...The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry, and its discreet appearance blends well in both urban and outdoor environments...." Read more

"...Tushy portable bidet- Kindle OasisIt is a tight fit , but I was still able to close the zipper without damaging it...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the waist pack. They mention that the design is chic, minimalist, and unique. They also appreciate the thoughtfully designed compartments, and the color is very nice.

"...-YKK zippers are always great to have. -Color is very nice ...." Read more

"...The sling design is a standout feature of this bag. It allows for quick and easy access to your belongings without having to remove the bag entirely...." Read more

"...Materials on the bag are nice, the bag does looks cool ...." Read more

"...In conclusion, the Tomtoc Compact EDC Sling Bag is a stylish and practical solution for anyone seeking a versatile and convenient way to carry their..." Read more

Customers find the waist pack versatile and practical for daily use. They say it's a great daily bag that holds exactly what they need.

"...Small enough to be ergonomic and useful for daily use , but it somehow fit a Nintendo, my keys wallet, gum, mints, eyedrops, passport, keys, lotion..." Read more

"...tomtoc Compact EDC Sling Bag, 4.5L, is a remarkable bag that combines functionality , style, and compactness in a single package...." Read more

"...The adjustable strap is comfortable and versatile , allowing me to wear the sling bag across my chest or over my shoulder, adapting to my preferences..." Read more

"...This bag is ergonomic, practical , good construction quality, good compartments and distribution, security pocket included and the most important at..." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the waist pack. They mention that it feels comfortable when wearing it, the width of the straps make it perfectly comfortable to carry cross body, the padded strap is both comfortable and adjustable, and the organization features, comfortable sling design, and attention to detail make it ergonomic, practical, and good construction quality. They also say that the carabiner is surprisingly comfortable with the weight distribution.

"Easy to adjust, very comfortable on a 5'11 195 lb male...." Read more

"...Its durability, organization features, comfortable sling design , and attention to detail make it a reliable and stylish companion for your daily..." Read more

"...Its well-thought-out design, durability, and comfort make it an excellent choice for daily use, travel, or outdoor activities...." Read more

"...1.25" (3 cm) wide, but it's not padded, so I've found that it bites into my neck a bit when I have it really loaded down...." Read more

Customers find the waist pack great for light traveling and sightseeing. They say it's a versatile and convenient way to carry their essentials. Customers also mention that the shoulder strap makes it easy to carry the bag for a long time. They love that it can be worn as a chest or shoulder bag, and that it'll work as an everyday sling bag. However, some customers wish it had more space for storing a portable battery.

"...useful for taking to the gym if your don't have pockets, its useful for traveling as you can keep valuables and passports close to you and easily..." Read more

"...The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry , and its discreet appearance blends well in both urban and outdoor environments...." Read more

"...practical solution for anyone seeking a versatile and convenient way to carry their essentials ...." Read more

"...The bag can be worn over either shoulder , but for me it seems to "fit" more naturally over my left shoulder, slung under my right arm...." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the waist pack. They say it's great for the price, worth the investment, and made of excellent materials. Some mention that it'll be good for shopping, hiking, and sightseeing.

"...security pocket included and the most important at least for me, very affordable ...." Read more

"...Since it rests against your body it's a good place for money , credit cards, and passport...." Read more

"...Well made, good value for the money . Highly recommend!" Read more

"Fits everything you takes with you daily. Really light and the price is good considering the quality material it's made of...." Read more

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• Buying Guides

The 20 Best Sling Bags in 2024

For most people, their concept of EDC essentials is what would easily fit in their pockets. Still, for others, this may not be enough. It’s time to consider a compact sling bag when you’re looking to carry more gear than would fit in your clothes’ compartments but not enough for a full-sized bag or daypack. They offer a lightweight carry option for warm weather and long errands and pack just enough for full-day walkabouts without being too clunky or heavy. Since everybody’s ideal carry would differ, finding one that meets your specific storage and organization needs is best. In this guide, we put together 20 great examples of EDC-worthy sling bag options for every carry scenario.

Our Favorites, Ranked

The top sling bags you should know.

When picking a good sling bag, you should look out for a few things. The first is capacity. Sling packs are usually much smaller than your typical backpack, so if you carry a lot of gear, focus on the larger options ranging from 7L-10L.

As with most EDC bags , you should also pay close attention to the materials. Water-resistant fabric and zippers are a must to keep your gear dry. You should also pay attention to how heavy the sling is. For the most part, you’ll carry these over your shoulders, so lighter is better if you have neck or shoulder issues.

• 1 – Bellroy Venture Camera Edition Sling Bag
• 2 – Chrome Industries Tensile Hip Pack Sling Bag
• 3 – WNDRD ROAM Sling Bag
• 4 – NOMATIC Navigator Sling Bag
• 5 – Mission Workshop Axis Sling Bag
• 6 – Osprey Daylite Sling Bag
• 7 – tomtoc Urban Sling Bag
• 8 – Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack Sling Bag
• 9 – Hazard 4 Bandoleer Sling Bag
• 10 – Timbuk2 Vapor Sling Bag
• 11 – Aer City Day Max X-Pac Sling Bag
• 12 – Peak Design Everyday Sling Bag
• 13 – North St. Bags Pioneer 9 Hip Pack Sling Bag
• 14 – Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Sling Bag
• 15 – Trakke X-Pac Largo Sling Bag
• 16 – DSPTCH Unit Sling Pouch RND Edition
• 17 – Mystery Ranch Hip Monkey Sling Bag
• 18 – EVERGOODS CIVIC Access Sling Bag
• 19 – Alpaka Bravo Max LE Sling Bag
• 20 – GREENROOM136 Metrorunner Sling Bag

Bellroy Venture Camera Edition Sling Bag

Chrome Industries Tensile Hip Pack Sling Bag

WNDRD ROAM Sling Bag

NOMATIC Navigator Sling Bag

Mission Workshop Axis Sling Bag

Osprey Daylite Sling Bag

tomtoc Urban Sling Bag

Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack Sling Bag

Hazard 4 Bandoleer Sling Bag

Timbuk2 Vapor Sling Bag

Aer City Day Max X-Pac Sling Bag

Peak Design Everyday Sling Bag

North St. Bags Pioneer 9 Hip Pack Sling Bag

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa Sling Bag

Trakke X-Pac Largo Sling Bag

DSPTCH Unit Sling Pouch RND Edition

Mystery Ranch Hip Monkey Sling Bag

EVERGOODS CIVIC Access Sling Bag

Alpaka Bravo Max LE Sling Bag

GREENROOM136 Metrorunner Sling Bag

Some basic sling bag faqs, is a sling bag worth it.

A sling bag is worth it if you don’t need to carry too much and only need to EDC a few extra things. A sling bag might not be for everyone, but you won’t be disappointed if you can hone down the perfect kit for your particular sling.

Are sling backpacks better?

Sling backpacks are similar to traditional backpacks. It could be better for you if you typically carry a big pack that’s mostly empty, but if you already carry a bag full of what you consider essential, you might find it hard to stuff it all into a smaller sling pack.

Are sling bags still in style?

Sling packs are for sure back in style. Crossbody slings and fanny packs have come a long way since the 90s. Nowadays, they’re made with durable materials by trustworthy brands with an eye for clever design.

What are the benefits of a sling bag?

The benefits of a sling pack include quick access to frequently used items and a smaller bag that is way easier to manage when you’re out and about. They’re also typically lighter in weight than your average backpack, meaning you can spend the day outdoors without putting too much strain on your back.

How we picked

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 lives. It encompasses everything from style to preparedness to utility, meaning an entire industry full of valuable tools and essentials to choose from.

Why you should trust us

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 with the industry and familiarity in 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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Essential Everyday Carry Items for Travelers

When it comes to traveling, being prepared with the right everyday carry (EDC) items can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re exploring new cities, going on an adventurous hike, or simply traveling home for a holiday, having the right EDC tools at your disposal can make a significant difference. Let’s take a look at some essential EDC items to make your life easier when traveling, including portable chargers, travel wallets, multitools, backpacks, and other travel accessories that will enhance your experience.

Portable Chargers: Power On-The-Go

One of the most frustrating situations while traveling is running out of battery on your devices, especially when you rely on them for navigation or taking photos and videos. That’s why we always recommend having a portable charger of some kind with you when you travel. These compact and lightweight devices allow you to recharge your smartphones, tablets, or other gadgets anytime, anywhere.

Recommended Products:

• Anker PowerCore 10000 – This pocket-sized portable charger offers high-speed charging and can charge up your devices multiple times. With its compact design and fast-charging capabilities, it fits well into any backpack and can help out in a jam.
• RAVPower 26800mAh Power Bank – If you need to charge multiple devices simultaneously, this power bank has you covered. Its massive capacity ensures you can stay powered throughout your travels without worrying about running out of battery.

Travel Wallets: Organized and Secure

Keeping your travel documents, IDs, credit cards, and cash safe and organized is crucial when exploring new destinations. A travel wallet provides a dedicated space for all your essentials, offering convenience and peace of mind if you’re worried about RFID scanners too.

• Bellroy Travel Wallet – This slim and stylish travel wallet is designed to accommodate your passport, boarding pass, cards, and even a small pen. It features RFID blocking to protect your sensitive information, ensuring you can navigate through airports and unfamiliar cities worry-free.
• Travelambo RFID Blocking Bifold Passport Holder – If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, this passport holder is an excellent choice. It offers ample storage and RFID protection, keeping your valuables secure during your travels.

Multitools: Versatile Helpers

A multitool is like having a compact toolbox at your fingertips. From opening bottles to fixing small issues on the go, a good multitool can be a true lifesaver during your travels. And there are lightweight, TSA-approved options that won’t cause any problems when going through security at the airport.

• Leatherman Wave Plus – Known for its quality and functionality, the Leatherman Wave Plus is a versatile multitool perfect for travelers. It features essential tools such as pliers, knives, screwdrivers, and even a bottle opener, all neatly packed into a compact design.
• Gerber Dime – This pocket-sized multitool is a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet reliable tool. With its keychain attachment, you can easily carry it wherever you go, ensuring you’re always prepared for unexpected situations.

Backpacks: Comfort and Organization

A reliable backpack is an essential item for travelers, offering ample storage space, comfort, and convenient accessibility to your belongings. Look for backpacks designed specifically for travel, with compartments for laptops, portable chargers, water bottles, and other necessities.

• Osprey Farpoint 40 – The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a popular choice among travelers due to its optimal size for carry-on luggage. With its comfortable suspension system and versatile organization features, it strikes the perfect balance between functionality and portability.
• Nomatic Travel Pack – This feature-packed backpack is designed to cater to the needs of travelers. It offers innovative features such as a built-in compression packing cube, RFID-protected pocket, and a separate laptop compartment. With its sleek design and durable construction, the Nomatic Travel Pack is an excellent companion for both short trips and long-term adventures.

Other Travel Accessories: Enhancing Your Journey

In addition to the EDC items mentioned above, there are a few other travel accessories that can further enhance your travel experience. You probably won’t need these for every trip, but depending on where you’re going or what your plan is, they could come in handy.

Travel-Sized Toiletries : Opt for compact, TSA-compliant toiletries to save space in your luggage and ensure you have all the necessary personal care items during your trip. Look for travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and other essentials to maintain your hygiene on the go.

Noise-Canceling Headphones : Whether you’re on a long flight or exploring bustling city streets, noise-canceling headphones can be a game-changer. They help block out unwanted noise, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or simply find some quiet in a noisy environment.

Reusable Water Bottle : Staying hydrated is crucial while traveling. Carry a reusable water bottle to minimize plastic waste and have access to water wherever you go. Look for bottles with leak-proof lids and features like insulation to keep your beverages cold or hot.

Travel-Sized First Aid Kit : It’s always wise to have a basic first aid kit on hand. Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications. This way, you’ll be prepared to address minor injuries or ailments during your travels. If you’re traveling with small children, this is an absolute must!

Essential Travel EDC

Remember, the key to a successful travel EDC is finding the right balance between functionality, convenience, and portability. Choose items that you might need depending on your specific needs and travel style.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newcomer to the world of EDC, these essential items will elevate your travel experience and ensure you’re prepared for any situation. So, pack your portable charger, secure your travel wallet, and equip yourself with a versatile multitool. Don’t forget to choose a backpack that offers both comfort and organization. With the right EDC items, your journey will be smoother, more organized, and enjoyable.

Safe travels and happy adventuring!

Zach Belmont has been working in the outdoor apparel industry in one form or another for over 20 years. During his career, he has worked at some of the most well-known adventure brands including Patagonia and The North Face in marketing, operations and product development. Zach currently lives in Wyoming with his wife and 2 kids.

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Flying: How to build a TSA-Friendly EDC Kit

Be sure to check out our entire series on domestic travel:

• Part 1: Why it’s important to plan for your travel EDC
• Part 2: How to build a TSA-Friendly EDC Kit  (current article)

We’ll be focusing on domestic travel within the US (and will tackle international travel later), but this setup can easily be modified for your country’s travel restrictions.

One of the most restricted areas for everyday folks is airline travel. The terrorist attacks that happened on September 11, 2001, changed the way countries handled risk. Sometime after 9/11, some restrictions were eased, but most of the gear we utilize on a day-to-day basis is still not allowed.

TSA had announced plans to allow small knives on airplanes, but it was dropped after complaints from airlines, as they continue to limit the tools and gear that we rely on every day.

After  thinking through the unknowns of travel and the different considerations we should have when preparing our EDC , we’ve come up with the kit below, which has been successfully carried through TSA security at 5 major USA airports with no issues. We hope that it serves as an inspiration for you on your next trip.

Keep in mind, what you can carry on an airplane is ultimately up to the discretion of the TSA agent you are working with. We strongly recommend leaving ahead of time in case you get pulled out of security for a more thorough search. Also, check  www.tsa.gov  before your trip for any changes to carry-on policies and rules.

Pocket organizer

Pocket organizers allow you to have your gear organized , and therefore usable. Whether you’re trying to access your earbuds in the restricted airplane seats or need to access your tourniquet when every second counts, getting access to your EDC gear needs to happen quickly. 

With an organizer, you can also move your stuff from your Secondary EDC bag to your travel setup. Add/remove the items to make it TSA-compliant and it makes prep for travel much faster.

If you’re unsure of what size Maxpedition organizer to get, we’ve put together a handy  guide to the Maxpedition organizer family .

Blade-less Multitool

Having the ability to cut is one of the fundamental functions that a well-organized EDC can bring. Unfortunately, knives of any kind are banned on commercial airlines. Even though you have to leave your EDC knife at home, there are many other tools that are allowed by TSA.

Gerber took their much-loved Gerber Dime multitool and modified it to fit TSA’s restrictive guidelines. You get a compact EDC multitool that weighs only 2.35 ounces and has necessities like scissors, pliers, screwdrivers and more.

It has been my go-to for years, but unfortunately, it seems Gerber has discontinued it. You can still find some a few on the secondary market if you’re really interested.

Tactical Flashlight

Another critical piece of gear that is airline-friendly is a flashlight. 

Look for a light that is small and lightweight, but also has a higher lumen output. When a concealed carry weapon or pocket knife is restricted, a “tactical” flashlight can be a good option. 

Keep your flashlight in your hand and ready to turn on when walking to your hotel or in an urban area at night. Blinding someone with the high beam may give you enough time to get away or at least cause a distraction.

If you need a little help picking your next tactical flashlight, check out our article on: What is the best tactical flashlight? 5 features to consider

We’ve talked before about  how scissors are an important part of any intentional EDC , and with travel, it’s even more helpful. You don’t have access to your pocket knife or the scissors kept in your junk drawer. It’s a good way to add the ability to cut in the highly-restrictive environment of airline travel.

Cut loose threads on clothing, use them for grooming or even while giving first aid. 

Dental Medic

Our teeth are something we take for granted until there is something wrong. If you’ve ever experienced tooth pain, it can be excruciating and can prohibit you from functioning in day to day life.

If you are away from home and bite down on food the wrong way, trip and fall, or even have an old filling that comes loose, having the means to address your tooth pain until you can see a dentist can save a costly emergency dental trip.

Adventure Medical Kit’s Dental Medic contains the essentials for treating dental pain and injury when a dentist isn’t available. It includes basic supplies like floss, cotton, and oral aesthetic to more advanced components like temporary cavity filling mixture and dental wax.

This is a great option if you are going on a quick trip with little time to address a tooth injury or going to a more remote destination.

First Aid Kit

From a headache, travelers diarrhea, a blister, or just having dirty hands, basic first aid equipment is a must. At only 4.5″ x 5″ in size, the Travel Medic is an easy way to add basic first aid supplies to your EDC. 

If you’re traveling and will be a bit further from immediate medical care, consider supplementing a small 1-person medical kit with a more robust medic kit. 

Looking for  more information on the Travel Medic? Read our full review here.

Traveling and getting a bout of diarrhea or a killer headache can make you thankful you planned ahead. Ensure you are stocked up on everyday medications as part of your Secondary EDC . Inexpensive, small and lightweight, the Best Glide refill packs (for both medication and first aid) are an easy way to be intentional about what you carry. 

Firestarter/Bic Lighter

The ability to start a fire is still the one “invention” of mankind that completely changed everyday life. Make sure you carry that ability with you at all times, because you never know when you’ll need to use it.

There are many fire-starting options on the market, so  if you’re unsure of what type to use, read our fire starter guide .

Basic hygiene supplies like soap can mean the difference between sickness and health. When water isn’t available, like before eating a meal on an airplane, hand sanitizer can be a fill-in.

The  Sea to Summit Pocket Hand Wash  has 50 paper-thin leaves of soap in a hard plastic case. The case seen here has lasted a long time but has come to the rescue in many instances where a public restroom has been out of soap.

Gloves , especially if you are performing first aid on another person, are critical for preventing bloodborne pathogens from getting on your skin and in your body. Always, always, take precautions when it comes to your health.

We talked in Part 1 of this series about planning for unforeseen events, like a biological, chemical or terrorist attack. A basic surgical mask, or even better, a respirator mask, can help you lessen your chances of being impacted when considering the unknowns. 

We are still learning the impact on first responders on 9/11 in New York City , mostly due to the dust from the blasts. Could a respirator have made a difference in 9/11? We can’t fully know, but due to their small size and small weight, having one as part of your Secondary EDC could be a wise decision.

In addition to the obvious benefit of healing cracked lips (and airplane cabins are notoriously dry), use it as a makeshift lubricant for tools, to waterproof seals or seems, a propellant for making a fire or even an emergency candle when used with a q-tip.

Eating Utensil

If you add an eating utensil to your EDC, you’ll be surprised at how often you use it, and this is especially true when traveling. Grabbing food on-the-go increases the chances you’ll be stuck in your seat with your salad or soup and no way to eat it. 

Food and Water

Being stuck on an airplane without access to food, or only getting water when the flight attendant is able, can set you up for a situation where you need to rehydrate and refuel.

Carry  energy bars  or a quick protein (like peanuts) to hold you over and make it a habit to refill an empty water bottle or buy a bottle of water once you are through TSA security.

Carrying cash is something we feel is a critical part of any EDC.  We’ve written a 3-part series on this , so if you haven’t read it, please do.

Ensure you always have enough money to cover incidentals and even more importantly, get home if you need it.

Versatile Gear

Paracord, twisty ties, s-biners.

Straps or handles can break, cords can become unruly, and being able to respond to these needs can make a potentially large inconvenience have a quick fix.

Mend a broken bag, make a strap, remove lint … there are endless uses for duct tape , especially when you’re far from home.

Back-up Identification and Documentation 

Keep a copy of your passport, drivers license, car insurance, credit cards, airline, rental car and hotel information with you. This is important because:

• TSA will let you back on the airplane with no identification, but it’s made much easier with a copy of your IDs
• Proof of insurance if you’re in a car accident in your rental car
• If your wallet is stolen, having a copy of your credit cards makes it easier to cancel them 
• If your phone is stolen, not knowing what hotel you have reservations at can quickly reveal your dependency on technology (this happened to us at Option Gray and we were in downtown Chicago, unsure of what Marriott property our reservation was with) 
• Your airline’s toll-free number and reservation’s locator code can be your ticket to getting help quickly

Treat these copies as well as you treat the originals. Once you get to your destination, keep them locked up in the hotel safe so if you lose your wallet and other Primary or Secondary EDC gear, you can access these back-ups.  An alternate idea is to take pictures of your ID’s and documentation and keep it on your phone (that is password-protected) or on an encrypted thumb drive. 

Electronics

Depending on your needs, where you are going, how long you will be there and what you will be doing at your destination, consider including:

• Your phone charging cable. You likely will pack one in your suitcase, but having a backup charger in your EDC Kit will help if your charger is lost, stolen or forgotten. 
• Back-up battery for your phone (many versions are available on the market), which came in handy for us recently when we were unexpectedly stuck on the tarmac for almost 2 hours. Being able to charge your phone can give you the ability to call and reschedule flights, call friends or family, or just waste time when you are stuck waiting
• Headphones or earbuds
• Back-up batteries for your EDC flashlight

Notebook, Pen and Permanent Marker

We talk often about having the ability to write things down and that it’s a critical part of any intentional EDC. Hopefully, you carry a notebook and pen as part of your Primary EDC , but having one as part of your Secondary EDC is a great back-up option.

A solid metal “tactical” pen can be used as a weapon in a self-defensive situation. It is allowed in the highly-restrictive areas of airline travel.

Traveling to an unfamiliar area, you are likely dependent on the map feature built into your phone. If you lose your phone, it gets stolen, or something much more catastrophic happens, take control of navigating by having a hard-copy map with you.

Investing in a detailed street map of your destination is best, but even having a few printable maps  of the city and region you will be traveling to can set you in the right direction.

Spare Underwear

Talk to any road warrior and they’ll have their own nightmare story of travel. Delays, cancellations and being rerouted are inevitable. Paired with the hygiene basics we talked about above, having a clean pair of underwear can make a big difference in your comfort level.

If you have room, keep a spare pair in a ziplock bag (to store the dirty pair once you change).

Be sure you check out “ Part 1: Plan for your travel EDC Kit ” to understand why it’s important to take such precautionary measures that we’ve outlined here.

Additional tips for building out your EDC Kit:

• Expect to check your carry-on bag: If your EDC Kit is in a bag that you are carrying on, ensure that you can successfully move it to your “personal item” that is stored at your feet. If you’re one of the last to board your flight and there is no more room in the overhead bins, you will be forced to check your larger bag and you won’t get it back until the baggage claim at your destination (which exposes it to loss or theft)
• If you will be at a location for an extended period of time, you can always consider mailing a package to yourself to your hotel. Priority Mail is fairly affordable, can get to most places in the US within 2-3 days and is (mostly) safe. This would allow you to EDC a knife and other gear
• Any liquids or gels have to be under 3.4 ounces and will have to be put through TSA security in a quart-sized bag. This includes a Bic Lighter, hand sanitizer or any other items that fall into this category
• Pull out your blade-free multitool or any other objects that will undergo additional scrutiny and place them in the plastic bin as you go through TSA security. We’ve found that it speeds up the screening process, it gives agents the impression that you are not hiding anything, and prevents them from digging through your entire Secondary EDC kit

What do you have as part of your EDC that is TSA-compliant? Any other tips for fellow travelers?

Cody Martin

With over 18 years of federal law enforcement, training, and physical security experience, Cody focuses his time nowadays on both consulting and training. He regularly advises individuals, groups, multinational corporations, schools, houses of worship, and NGOs on security threats while conducting customized training as needed.

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The Best Packable Travel Towels

By Ebony Roberts

We love a plush, thirsty bath towel , but a campsite or suitcase just isn’t the place for one—there, we want a quick-drying, packable travel towel.

After putting 20 such towels through 60 hours of testing—including an intense day of sand and surf at the beach—we’ve concluded the PackTowl Personal offers the best balance of drying time, packability, and odor resistance without compromising comfort and design.

A good option for nearly every towel-related scenario, it’s lightweight, extra-large, and supersoft, making it usable for both car camping and travel into the backcountry.

Everything we recommend

PackTowl Personal

The best packable camp towel.

Whether used for camping, hiking, traveling, or general outdoor adventuring, this towel is durable enough to handle extended abuse while remaining soft and comfortable.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

An inexpensive towel that gets the job done.

Good-enough absorbency and drying time for those on a budget.

PackTowl Luxe

A plush, comfortable towel.

Good for car camping, day trips, and hanging at the beach, this towel is made of an incredibly soft fabric that also repels dirt.

Scoring well in nearly every performance category, the PackTowl Personal towel consistently surprised us with its ability to handle the elements. It has an antibacterial treatment to help prevent odor, the “body” size (25 by 54 inches) is large enough to wrap around most folks, and it feels soft against the skin. It’s made of a tear-resistant fabric and was the best towel we tested at absorbing water and repelling dirt. Better still, sand from the beach remained on the towel’s surface so it was easy to shake off, leaving the towel clean after multiple uses. Its drying time was faster than most of the towels we tested and it packs down to a small size in a zippered breathable pouch, making it convenient for travel or camping.

The Rainleaf Microfiber Towel was nearly identical in design to many of the pricier models and scored just as well in our field tests. The only downsides are that its size large is smaller than most other large towels we tested, and it has lighter-feeling fabric. It didn’t handle our day at the beach quite as well and took a little longer to dry, but otherwise it’s comparable in comfort and packability. And, because it’s treated with an antibacterial coating—something not standard on budget (or even some pricey) towels—it passed our smell test with a perfect score. At just a fraction of the price of our top choice, it’s a good pick if you’re the kind of person who goes camping a few times a year and needs something affordable that works well.

If packing your towel down into a tiny space isn’t a concern for you, the PackTowl Luxe is about as comfortable as a towel can get. Although it does take up a bit more room and takes significantly longer to dry, its “body” size has the same dimensions as our top pick but has a plusher feel against the skin. Unlike similar big and luxurious camp towels, it didn’t smell after being put away wet. It absorbed water off the skin without trapping in the dirt and sand, which left it surprisingly clean for a towel with such a high pile. As it was easy to shake off, we enjoyed having it as a wrap and beach blanket, too.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: packtowl personal, how the packtowl has held up, flaws but not dealbreakers, an inexpensive towel that works fine: rainleaf microfiber towel, a plush, comfortable towel: packtowl luxe, microfibers and the environment, the competition, care and maintenance.

We spoke with three experts to get their takes on what we should look for in a good towel. Mark Knight, a product designer currently with Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) , has designed a number of outdoor products, including packable towels, and gave us a breakdown on what he considers to be important when creating products like these.

We spoke via email with Georgia Newsome, owner and operator of Coastal Bliss Adventures , who has worked as a backpacking, camping, and canoeing guide for the past 15 years.

And we spoke with Craig Oliver, product manager for health and safety at MEC. He was able to tell us what’s important from a consumer perspective. In addition to these interviews, we read a number of online reviews, pored over camping and backpacking forums, researched microfiber fabrics, and then selected and tested the towels we think cover most activities to determine which one was best overall.

Why doesn’t a regular, everyday cotton towel cut it for most outdoor activities? Knight offered us five reasons your cotton towel isn’t ideal: it’s too big, too heavy, might get damaged or stained, doesn’t get washed at the same frequency it would at home, therefore causing it to smell, and lastly, it’s not always used in the same manner as it would be at home. He added, “As a travel towel, there is also the added functional requirement of being quick-dry. When traveling, you can move around a lot, and a packed wet towel generally means a stinky towel.”

Packable towels are usually made from microfiber , although a few of the ones we tested are made from other materials (which didn’t end up performing as well). These materials are typically a blend of polyester and polyamide, aka nylon, and depending on the blend will produce a towel that feels more suede-like and slick to one that feels more plush like your average cotton towel. There are also packable towels made of nanofabric, which is composed of tiny nanoscopic fibers woven together—think the width of a human hair (or even smaller)—to create a fabric that is incredibly lightweight and small. Though they do the trick, nanofiber towels tend to have a slicker surface, which means they don’t feel much like the towel you’re used to.

According to Oliver, the most popular camp towel size is roughly equivalent to a standard household bath towel—about 26 by 52 inches after washing. Some towels were slightly smaller or larger, but we tried to stay within what would seem like regulation size for most people.

All the experts we talked to shared the opinion that the type of towel you’ll want to purchase depends on the activity you’re using it for. For backpacking or kayaking trips, Newsome told us that “lightweight, small packability and quick drying are the most important factors.” For car camping or other adventures, where weight isn’t an issue, she opts for a larger microfiber towel, and one with an antimicrobial coating, “which means for those longer road trips and tours this towel stays fresh smelling.” Knight’s opinion aligned with Newsome’s: “Some of the lightest towels don’t feel that great against your skin, but the weight means you will actually bring it in your backpack when on a long hike. If you are traveling around the world, weight might not be your primary concern, but comfort will factor highly, as you will be using the towel each day—unless you are a soap dodger ! So, a softer, slightly heavier towel may be the way to go.”

Just as important as how much water a towel can absorb—in other words, how well it dries you—is how well the towel dries after you’re dry. “Nobody wants to put a wet towel into their backpack,” Oliver said.

After surveying online reviews, forums, and user ratings, and asking people what type of towel they preferred for their own outdoor activities, we narrowed our field to 19 packable towels, then threw in a standard cotton towel as a plush baseline. We then tested the towels using seven criteria: price, comfort, design, wicking, drying time, odor resistance, and packability.

We washed and dried all of the towels, giving them all an equal starting point, then we scored them in each category. We didn’t score weight or size, but we did make note of whether these features made a difference when comparing similar options.

Comfort: This was a tough one because of the people we asked, some preferred a more textured fabric and others liked the smooth feel of the microsuede towels. We asked individuals to feel each towel against their skin, asked for their comments, and then asked what their overall top picks were.

Design: Here, we looked at how well the towel is made, and whether there were any particular features—good or bad—that made drying off more or less of a pleasure. Key among them was fabric quality, stitching, and what kind of hanging loop—essential!—the towel came with. We also looked at texture, an important attribute for both water absorption and grabbing dirt and grime, rather than just pushing it around. A too-slick towel won’t do much of anything except leave your skin feeling yucky and wet.

Wicking: One of the most important tests we conducted was how well the towel could wick away water and leave the skin feeling dry. When we took our test towels to the beach, we wanted to see how they performed against sandy salt water and whether they were able to clean the skin in addition to drying it.

Drying time: To determine which towel dried the fastest, we applied the same amount of water to each towel and then timed how long it took for them to dry. But how much water to use, and how dry is dry, exactly? We used 4 ounces of water, a quantity we settled on after having multiple testers shower and weigh their towels before and after use. Once the person was dry enough to feel comfortable putting their clothes on, we called that “dry.” We did this a couple of times with each person and used a couple types of cotton towels to get a base number. The average amount of water people removed from their bodies after showering was a ½ cup, or about 225 milliliters. We hung our entire assortment of high-tech, portable towels on the same line and recorded the time it took to leave each one dry to the touch.

Odor resistance: Another important criterion is how the towel smells after multiple uses. “An antimicrobial finish helps with odor management and decreases the frequency you need to wash the towel,” Knight told us. A towel may be used a dozen times before it gets properly washed, and if a towel smells musty or dirty after a couple of uses, it probably is. Many of the towels advertise a protective antibacterial coating and we wanted to see if these coatings actually made a difference.

Our test involved taking the towels to the beach, soaking them in 16 ounces of ocean water, wringing out the excess water as best as we could, and then placing each towel in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours. After that, we opened the bags and took a whiff. Though most remained odor-free (especially those coated with an antimicrobial treatment), we were taken aback by how seriously a few of them reeked.

Packability: As important as drying you—and drying out—are, the other key thing a camp towel has to do is pack small for travel. Some towels came with cases, some didn’t. Our focus was simply how tiny a towel could get.

Price: More expensive doesn’t really seem like a good thing when it comes to something like a packable travel towel, given that there’s such a variance in price and that most towels pretty much claim to do the same thing.

The PackTowl Personal is our top choice because it handled every test we put it through. It’s the perfect option for nearly any outdoor activity that requires a towel. It’s large and durable while still being comfortable and comes with an antimicrobial treatment, which means it won’t smell after multiple uses. Its snap loop for hanging was one of the easiest to use, and the towel packs down to a small size, making it easy to travel with. Its drying time was comparable with that of the fastest-drying towels we tested, and it didn’t absorb dirt or sand into its fabric, an essential feature if you’re taking a towel into the backcountry.

Made of a soft microsuede, this towel was consistently chosen as a top pick by those we asked to rate its comfort. It is soft and light, but still has a bit of texture, so it doesn’t feel slick against your skin the way a nanofiber towel like the Matador NanoDry Shower Towel does. The PackTowl seems built to last, with a nicely seamed edge that should hold up over time. On top of feeling soft, it dried our skin much more readily than the non-microfiber towels we tested, like the Coleman or Outlier. It even dried a bit more quickly than other microfiber products in our test group. We were impressed by how well it repelled sand and dirt from being absorbed into its fabric. The sand that did stick to the towel was easy to shake off—which wasn’t the case of some of the other models we tested that looked like dirty rags after just a short time at the beach.

In our drying-time test, the PackTowl dried much faster than most, with the exception of the linen towel and the Biospired Footprint, which beat the PackTowl’s dry time by 30 minutes. (The towels we tested dried in a range from 1 hour, 45 minutes to nearly 4 hours.) We noticed that the towels with an additional antimicrobial coating took a little longer to dry. We think the extra odor protection is worth the few extra minutes of drying time. As the PackTowl dried, some water initially beaded on the surface, but was then absorbed, compared with towels that still had visible water beads after almost an hour of drying. (Beads of water were a good indication of extended drying times.) Water also dispersed evenly through the towel rather than leaving wet spots, which likely contributed to its fast drying time. We dried the towels in overcast conditions, and noticed that at just over 1 hour, 30 minutes the PackTowl was only minimally damp, and could be packed back into its carrying case if you were in a rush to pack up and go.

We tested the PackTowl’s “body” size, which weighed 6.7 ounces, fairly average compared with the other suede-type towels, and measured 25 by 54 inches, just shy of being the same size as our standard bath towel, and larger than many of the towels in our testing pool.

Wirecutter staffers have owned this towel for multiple seasons and it continues to hold up, with no loose threads or unraveled seams after use.

We didn’t love the PackTowl’s pouch: it doesn’t attach easily to a backpack, and the zipper seemed flimsy. But the pouch is made of breathable fabric, so it won’t trap moisture the way a plastic bag or pouch might. Although the PackTowl is antimicrobial, it did have the slightest ocean water odor to it after our 48-hour smell test, which is not something we noticed in previous tests.

Costing about half the price of our top pick, the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a great choice for those that don’t want to shell out almost $30 for a towel. A major bonus is that unlike most of the inexpensive towels we considered, this one actually comes with an antimicrobial treatment and passed the smell test after being sealed up wet for two days. It’s also comfortable, easy to dry off with, and just as packable as the PackTowl.

It didn’t dry quite as fast as our top pick and that may be due to the fact that some of the water beaded off and remained on the surface before being absorbed directly into the towel. The size we tested (L) is also slightly smaller than some of the pricier options but still big enough to wrap around the average person’s body.

Because it is so inexpensive, there’s the option of upgrading to the XL or XXL sizes for just a few bucks more and still have it come in well below price of most other towels. On top of that, it has a functional carrying pouch that is both breathable and easy to fasten onto a backpack so you can pack the towel damp and hang it to dry when it’s time to hit the road.

That said, though it did well drying our testers at the beach, it didn’t handle sand as well as our top pick, leaving a good amount behind on both their skin and the towel itself. If you’re a serious outdoor adventurer who’s going to be putting it to work against the elements, we recommend a towel that can handle gritty, sticky stuff a bit better.

If size and volume aren’t issues and you’re looking for something more soft and comfortable, the PackTowl Luxe performed the best of the plush cotton-like microfiber towels. Not only did it dry the quickest of these towels, it was good at removing sand from the skin and didn’t absorb dirt and mud into the fabric. It also didn’t have any odor after the smell test. A few of the other thicker towels we tested simply reeked—testers used the term “rotten fish”—after a couple days crunched into a ball, but not the Luxe.

If comfort is a primary concern, this towel feels much closer to cotton, avoiding the slick skin-feel common to many microsuedes and nanofibers. As we did with our pick, the PackTowl Personal, we tested the extra-large “Body” size. Also like our pick, at this size the Luxe is a few inches larger than the others we tested of the same type, measuring 25 by 54 inches, offering that extra little bit of coverage.

It does come with a carrying pouch, and though not as stylish or durable as the Sea to Summit Pocket Towel ’s silicone carrying case, it’s adequate for what it needs to do. We consider this towel a solid option for car camping and day trips, when taking up a little extra space won’t matter.

Although durable and light, there’s an environmental downside to microsynthetic fibers: Every time you wash that gear, small quantities of its fibers are shed, ending up in our waterways and oceans. (Here’s a study from the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management on the issue.) For more about the problem and some advice on combating it, see our article Your Laundry Sheds Harmful Microfibers. Here’s What You Can Do About It.

We tested a standard white bath towel—the Fieldcrest Luxury Solid Towel, which has since been discontinued—that was the same size as the majority of the towels we tested. It performed as expected: It was great at drying skin and was comfortable, but it didn’t pack down and had a bit of a funky smell after our odor test. Surprisingly, it didn’t take that much longer to dry than some of the plusher microfiber models we tested and actually outperformed a few of the towels that are marketed specifically for camping.

Biospired Footprint Towel: This had been our runner-up pick, but the size we tested has cycled in and out of stock. If you do happen to run across one, it’s still a good towel, though. We had also tested, and dismissed, the Biospired Endurance Camping & Fitness Towel and the Biospired Trek Pack Towel; for what it’s worth, those towels also tend to have stock problems.

Matador NanoDry Shower Towel : For backcountry campers and hikers that are concerned about weight, this is by far the lightest towel we tested (2.4 ounces). It performed well, but it is very thin and not as comfortable as the others. We decided it was too specialized to be best for most people.

Outlier Grid Linen Towel : Made of a natural linen fabric, this towel was the fastest-drying towel, and it performed well at the beach. But it doesn’t pack down very small, doesn’t come with a carrying case but rather a thick elastic band, and had a faint smell after our odor test. Those drawbacks made it hard to justify its high price.

Sunland Microfiber Towel  (currently unavailable): One of the least expensive microfiber towels, but no antimicrobial treatment and very average performance.

Sea to Summit DryLite Towel : One of the slowest to dry. Another note of caution, many online reviews have reported a problem with the cobalt blue dye running. We didn’t run into this problem, but we tested an orange towel, so it’s likely the issue is with only the darker-colored towels. Another drawback is that the carrying case comes with a Velcro closure, making it possible to snag the fabric when maneuvering the towel into and out of the case.

Shandali Yoga Travel Towel  (currently unavailable): Average performance, no carrying case, and though it does have a little loop for hanging to dry, most of the towels we tested had a loop with a snap, making them more versatile.

YogaRat SportLite Sport + Bath Towel  (currently unavailable): Though this towel did dry quite quickly and was resistant to odor during our 48-hour test, the lack of an antibacterial treatment gave us odor concerns for people taking it on longer trips. And with no carrying case and a snapless loop, this towel was a few steps below our top choices in convenience.

Sea to Summit Tek Towel : Sand stuck to the towel, leaving it quite dirty. Drying time was slow.

REI Co-op Multi Towel  (currently unavailable, but we're looking into a possible new version): Everything stuck to this towel: dryer lint, grass, sand, and dirt, and even though we tested a darker color, it looked dirty after our day at the beach. It also didn’t smell great after our odor test, and it took over four hours to dry.

Lightload Towel : Not really built to be used multiple times, this towel is made of an almost paperlike viscose material, and although very small, once unpackaged it can’t be squished down to its original size (although it does fit in a smaller Ziploc bag). It is incredibly large though, dried quickly, and would probably perform as an ad-hoc firestarter or outdoor survival tool (non-cleanliness-oriented usage scenarios suggested by the manufacturer). Whether being able to set the world on fire is a worthwhile trade-off with this towel’s lack of odor resistance—it was the worst performer in our stink trial—is something we hope we’ll never have to decide.

Coghlan’s Deluxe Camp Towel (currently unavailable): This is the classic outdoor towel that’s been around campsites for years. Some backcountry campers still prefer these towels because they’re small, lightweight, and cheap, but they didn’t perform as well as the microfiber towels that we tested. They dry very slowly, stink up easily, and don’t feel good against the skin.

Coleman Camp Towel  (currently unavailable): Similar in nearly every aspect to the Coghlan’s towel, just with slightly different dimensions—neither is big enough to really function as a full-body wrap—this model also had the drawbacks of rough fabric, odor retention, and delayed drying. (It appears to have been discontinued.)

Most packable towels are designed to repel dirt and bacteria, so they don’t need to be cleaned after every use. Excessive washing can also break down the fabric and any additional antimicrobial technology the towel might be treated with. So, wash only when dirty and don’t dry your towel on high heat unless absolutely necessary; way better to hang it when you can and let the air take care of it.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Nicholas J. Bruce, Niko L. Hartline, Stephanie N. Karba, Elizabeth O. Ruff, Shreya U. Sonar, and Patricia A. Holden, Microfiber Pollution and the Apparel Industry , Bren School of Environmental Science and Management , September 30, 2016

Mark Knight, product designer for Mountain Equipment Co-opand member of the Outdoor Industry Association , email interview , April 21, 2017

Georgia Newsome, owner and operator of Coastal Bliss Adventure and Kilimanjaro Bliss , email interview , March 31, 2017

Craig Oliver, product manager for health and safety at Mountain Equipment Co-op , phone interview , March 29, 2017

What Are The Coolest New Small Gear Companies? , Outside , January 15, 2016

Anne Trafton, Tiny particles may pose big risk , MIT News , April 8, 2014

Meet your guide

Ebony Roberts

Further reading

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

Essential Gear for Traveling Solo

by Ria Misra

Traveling solo is freeing but poses some unique challenges. Wirecutter’s picks help you travel comfortably and securely—and bring home great pictures too.

The Best Duffle Bags

by Kit Dillon

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose seven bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

The Best Beach and Surf Gear: Towels, Totes, Coolers, and More

After seven years of relaxing in the sand and playing in the surf, we’ve chosen the best picks to help you enjoy a perfect beach day.

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EDC Orlando 2024 lineup released: John Summit, Zeds Dead, Illenium & more

ORLANDO, Fla. - The official countdown to EDC Orlando is on now that the three-day music festival has revealed its official lineup for 2024. 

Here's everything you need to know about EDC Orlando 2024:

EDC Orlando is set to take over Tinker Field on Nov. 8, 9 and 10 this year. 

Tinker Field is located at 287 S Tampa Ave. in Orlando. 

Sabrina Carpenter coming to Orlando on 'Short n' Sweet Tour!'  

EDC Orlando released its official lineup for 2024 on June 25. Among the dozens of DJs slated to take the stage under the electric sky are John Summit, Tiësto, Zeds Dead and Illenium, Eric Prydz, Fisher and Alesso. 

Here's a look:

'Beverly Hills, 90210' cast to reunite at '90s Con' in Florida: See the full celebrity guest lineup  

General admission passes, general admission+ passes and VIP passes are going back on sale Thursday, June 27 at noon ET. 

Here's what to know about each pass tier:

What's included :

• 1 festival ticket
• Free water refill stations
• Food and beverage options

Price : $209.99 plus taxes and fees

Florida country music festival abruptly canceled  

• Expedited entry lane into festival
• Premium, air-conditioned restrooms

Price : $289.99 plus taxes and fees

• Exclusive food and beverage otions
• Dedicated VIP viewing areas
• Dedicated VIP merch tent
• Complimentary Volta Beauty Bar
• Kandi-making station
• Gran ‘n’ go festival essentials

Price : $409.99 plus taxes and fees

Orlando leaders recommend permanent restrictions on new nightclubs  

EDC Orlando has not yet released the festival or parking map for the 2024 festival as of June 25. 

Here's a link to see the 2023 festival map . 

EDC Orlando lets fans avoid traffic and parking woes with the Official Insomniac Shuttle Program. Shuttles give fans direct access to the festival gates. 

EDC Orlando has not yet released the shuttle information for the 2024 festival as of June 25. 

In 2023, shuttle passes included either one- or three-day round-trip transportation to and from EDC Orlando, and they depart and return throughout the day. There were several shuttle lines that offered service to and from hotels in the theme park area and International Drive. 

They ran from noon to 8 p.m. from all shuttle stops, and took fans back starting at 9 p.m. until an hour after the festival ends. 

Click here for more info about EDC Orlando. 

Top 10 Strollers for Travel

Whether you're flying to grandma's or navigating Disney World, we've got strollers that will smooth your journey.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Bugaboo butterfly.

Summer Infant 3D Mini

Best All-Terrain

Baby jogger city tour 2.

Our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have reviewed more than 40 strollers over the course of the past five years and for this story, we pulled strollers that can fit in tiny spaces (some, in the airplane overhead) and those that rank high for ease of folding . Separately, we have a list of lightweight strollers that will help you tackle the toddler years with your sanity intact, and some of those are great for travel, too. But the travel strollers below have an additional focus on being compact and folding quickly so you can move like a travel ninja.

We called this a "first-rate folding stroller" when we named this a Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award winner. It doesn't sacrifice comfort for compactness , so expect the usual Bugaboo high-quality fabric, deep seat, real sunshade (no skimping on sun protection here!) and extendable leg rest, just in a more tiny, adorable form that's easy to take along on trips.

One tester mom of a toddler geeked out about the fold, specifically. "The button to fold it is on the handle, so you just push down and it collapses nearly instantly. Our regular stroller requires ducking down and pushing a lever," she said. "Also, the glide of the Butterfly is comparable to much larger strollers. I can push my son uphill easily, with one hand!"

The folded Butterfly stands up by itself, great if you need it to sit while you check bags or load the car. But our Lab experts note that unfolding the Butterfly takes some finesse and practice — you shake it out and lock in place before you can set your kid inside. We like the carry handle that lets you sling the folded stroller over your shoulder, as shown in the picture.

If you want this to carry a newborn in a car seat you can buy a car seat adaptor for the Butterfly. But it only works with select brands including Bugaboo, Nuna, Maxi-Cosi and Cybex.

If you're only taking one big vacation and don't plan to travel often, you might want a no-drama lightweight stroller that's priced under $100 . This little 3D Mini might cost the same as checking a piece of luggage each way, and at just 11 pounds it's easy to handle on a trip.

The basket is small — an average-size diaper bag is too big to fit down there — but there's a zippered parent console that holds two drinks. It's got a reasonable sunshade, and the seat can lean back. There's no seat padding, nor is there springy suspension for the five-inch plastic wheels. It's built for the convenience of getting toddlers and young preschoolers around flat pedestrian areas, and it does that just fine.

The 3D mini folds long, to the size of a traditional umbrella. (Get it? That's why they call this style an "umbrella stroller.") It doesn't stand up when folded — like with umbrella, you have to prop it against a wall or a car, or lay it down, say in your car's trunk, or carry it in one hand, which is made easy by its light weight.

Not only does this weigh less than 15 pounds but its molded-rubber wheels can tackle a sandy beach path. Our tester did just that, saying, "We took the risk and rolled this along a nature trail in Puerto Rico and it did great." It won't tackle deep sand, for that you'll want a beach wagon . But the City Tour 2 is smooth-rolling on plenty of terrain and of course smooth on city streets, too.

This is a comfy choice with a deep seat that reclines almost flat, a wide calf rest plus a decent sun-protective canopy. For travel, we like that this is sold with a carry bag.

The fold is easy and starts with squeezing a button on the handle. But when folded this is not as small as some others; it can stand when folded but will not fit in an airplane overhead. Use the carry bag to gate-check it at the airport. The handle sits just under 40 inches tall, making it a little low for tall parents.

If you want a Baby Jogger stroller that holds an infant car seat, the brand's newer City Mini Air can hold a Baby Jogger or Graco model. But it's about nine pounds heavier and more of a fullsize stroller than a travel option.

Colugo The Compact

Lots of the choices on our list are great for airplane trips because of their fold and compact size. But if you fly often — as in to and from grandparents four or five times a year — we like that The Compact can be carted around several ways.

It's important because toddlers hop in and out of their stroller all the time in the airport. Use the carry strap on the back to sling this over your shoulder when you're on a moving walkway, with one arm holding your kid. Or put the stroller in the included backpack-style bag so it's easy to carry your kid and wear the stroller on your back as you step onto the plane, where the stroller can fit in most overhead bins. (If the flight crew says the overheads are full, the bag makes it easy to gate-check.)

When we named this a Good Housekeeping Parenting Award winner, we called out some of the other great features: a more generous basket than most compact strollers; a parent cupholder (because caffeine ); and a rain cover in case it's pouring when you step outside. Our one issue is that this is not a choice for a newborn; your baby has to be at least 6 months old to ride in this.

Read Our Review : Is a Colugo Stroller Worth It?

If you're taking a young baby and don't want skimp on anything, this comfy, well-made compact stroller comes with a long list of amenities including a carry bag, a magnetic buckle so you can quickly snap your baby in place, plus a no-rethread harness so it's easy to adjust the shoulder-strap height as your child grows.

You can use the TRVL from birth because the seat reclines fully. You can also turn it into a Nuna travel system with the lightweight Nuna PIPA infant car seat, sold separately, without needing any extra adaptor (the car seat rests against the bumper bar).

All-wheel suspension helps this roll more like a full-size stroller. The basket can't hold as much as a few other picks on this list. But fans of the TRVL rave about the fold, which can be executed with just one hand while you hold your baby in your other arm. When folded it stays standing up on its own. Note, however, that it's just a few inches too big to fit in an airplane overhead bin, so plan to gate-check this stroller.

UPPAbaby Minu V2

Another Parenting Award winner, we've said this is "a perfect balance between a convenient compact and a sturdy full-size stroller." We think it's a great travel stroller for a toddler because of the extendable sun canopy, leatherette bumper bar you can use to hang a few toys and the lower basket that can hold up to 20 pounds . Swap the bumper bar for a snack tray , sold separately, if that will keep your toddler happier. If you're less concerned with getting something tiny and more interested in having a relatively compact stroller with all the features of a larger model, this might be your pick.

If you use this in an airport you will have to gate-check it; it won't fit in the plane's overhead. You can buy the UPPAbaby Minu carry bag separately. The Minu's small, self-standing fold means it takes up very little room in your home or hotel room. Tall parents will appreciate that the handle sits over 40 inches from the ground.

Related: UPPABaby's Vista is our best overall pick in our list of the Best Baby Strollers

Testers have loved this tiny stroller for taking trips. "The one-handed push-button fold is a notable feature — it’s a game-changer!" one told us. We put it in our most recent Family Travel Awards , where we noted it's compact enough to fit in a plane's overhead storage. The shoulder strap for easy transporting is elastic, which one tester found a little odd, saying, "It feels weird to carry a sizable object by an elastic strap," but it works!

"The Aer+ has a decent sized sun shade for being a compact stroller," another tester said. Nothing on it is huge, but that keeps it a little lighter than 14 pounds. The price is on the high side but the brand offers a 10-year limited warranty. (You have to register your product for it to be in place.)

Chicco Liteway

Little travelers who are a bit older, age 2 and up, do well with an umbrella-style stroller like this one that gives them a place to sit when they need a break but does not cost parents much cash. Mesh sides provide airflow when you're visiting warm places and rear suspension provides a smoother ride than the truly cheap sling-style models that are built more like toys. But because it's got such a lightweight aluminum frame the weight limit is 40 pounds, unlike some more expensive travel strollers that go up to 50 pounds.

The handle is two grab handles versus one long bar. Because this is umbrella-style, it has a long, thin fold that has to be rested on the ground or against something. You engage the fold with your foot rather than your hand, kicking up near the basket and stepping down on a lever at the side. The seat cushion is machine washable and it comes with a parent cupholder. It's ideal for preschoolers, including 4- and 5-year-olds. It's not for a baby younger than 6 months and does not take an infant car seat.

Munchkin Sparrow

It's all about the fold! The Sparrow folds into the neatest little 15" x 14" rectangle and tucks into its own carry case. Not only will it fit in an airplane overhead but we can imagine a bunch of other travel scenarios for this: tucked into a drawer in your hotel room or cruise-ship cabin, at your feet as you ride the train around Disneyland, on your shoulder while you hold your child and ride an escalator.

To get that small it has a lot of flexible joints and tiny wheels. Also, the Sparrow weighs less than 13 pounds. The combination can make the Sparrow feel more rickety than others on our list. It performed well enough rolling around smooth New York City sidewalks but, especially if you have a lightweight baby inside, it bounces over cracks, bumps and curbs. Fortunately, if you're mostly steering this through airports or through a theme park, you should be good to go.

A few other notes: The handle is low (not great for tall parents) but the seat is high (so a toddler is not leg-draggingly close to the ground). The basket is tiny and blocked by two bars, so it can't hold very much, maybe just a stroller blanket and water bottle. The tiny sunshade flap is minimal.

Evenflo Gold Otto

If you love the idea of a self-folding stroller that collapses at the touch of a button while you're holding your baby in your arms, this model does just that and at a nice price, too. Getting in and out of vehicles is easy because the Otto, when folded, can be self-standing or carried around by its bumper bar. You can use an Evenflo car seat with this without any separate adaptor, and the molded-rubber wheels have suspension in the front.

There is a gap between the seat and the canopy that lets airflow in but also allows a kid to squirm around and see you, which can either be a pro or con. We noticed online reviewers writing that the wheels squeak, which we did not experience in our Lab tests but seems to be an issue during real-world use. It comes with a parent cupholder. Note that the Otto is heavier than most of the other single strollers on our list but still weights less than 20 pounds. Because it's fairly robust it has a slightly higher weight limit compared to other travel strollers, up to 55 pounds.

Other travel strollers we recommend

Aside from our picks above, here are some others that performed well in our tests and with our consumer testers:

Best small-space travel stroller : Babyzen YOYO2 (pictured)

• We recommend this stroller for city parents or anyone who lives in a small spac e because of its compact size. It travels well, too. "We took it on a trip to Australia and it was so easy to travel with," a tester told us. Folded, this 13.5-pound stroller can be worn over your shoulder with the carry strap, and it comes with its own carry bag. Buy the $180 bassinet and you can use it from birth.

Best double travel stroller: Zoe The Twin V2

• This popular compact double is frequently sold out, but worth checking on if you need to take two kids on vacay. We've called this stroller "t he best double stroller for Disney " based on testers' real-world experiences. It meets the Disney park size requirements but weighs less than 20 pounds so it's not too tough to schlep on and off transport, plus it stands up when folded so it's easy to set it down and pick it up again without having to lean the stroller on something. Each seat has a large canopy (so important for long, sunny outings!), separate reclines so either kid can lean back when needed and bumper bars for toys and to help keep preschoolers from leaping out if they spot Mickey.

Best car seat stroller combo: Doona

• Nothing else comes close to being an ideal car seat and stroller combo for travel with a baby. The Doona is an infant car seat for a vehicle, then you pop the wheels out and stroll with it. No need to travel with both a car seat and a stroller since this is a two-in-one. "Now I tell every mama that she needs this," says one tester who started traveling with her baby in the Doona at 2 months old. Because it's only for toddlers up to 35 pounds and 32 inches tall, most families outgrow it by their child's second birthday. Read our full Doona Car Seat and Stroller Review .

The original square-fold travel stroller: CYBEX Libelle Pockit

Cybex pushed the travel-stroller category when it came out with a Pockit stroller that folds into a neat square . The latest version is the Libelle which, when folded, is just 12.6" x 7.9" x 18.9". And yet, unfolded, it can hold a Cybex infant car seat, sold separately. It comes in an array of colors though some of them will add to the price.

How we test the best travel strollers

We test strollers both in the Good Housekeeping Institute Labs and in real-world conditions. For travel strollers, we ask consumer testers to take a model on a trip and report back on how easy the stroller made their journey.

In the past five years we've tested more than 40 strollers, looking at a dozen factors including stroller weight, ease of fold, size of stroller when folded, whether it comes with a travel bag, size of the sunshade and basket, whether the seat can recline for rest and more. We roll strollers along varied terrain and time how long it takes to assemble strollers out of the box.

We have many different stroller guides, including a list of the Best Jogging Strollers and the Best Car Seat Stroller Combos .

What to look for when shopping for a travel stroller

Think about:

✔️ Just how tiny do you need it to fold? If you want to roll your stroller right onto the plane and throw it in the overhead bin, look for a travel stroller that promises to fit up there. The International Air Transport Association suggests that carry-on luggage not be larger than 22'' x 18'' x 10".

✔️ A carry bag makes a nice backup plan if you're flying. If your stroller is supposed to fit in the overhead but the plane is too full, having a carry bag lets you easily gate-check it. Plenty of families, including many of our Lab experts, actually prefer to gate-check their stroller. You roll your child to the gate, wait until boarding, then fold and bag the stroller and have airline personnel put a tag on it so you can pick it up on the jet bridge when the plane lands, allowing you to stroll your child to baggage claim.

✔️ Check the Disney Park requirements , if you're going there. Unfolded, your stroller should be no larger than 31 inches wide and 52 inches long for a day at one of the parks (which means no stroller wagons ).

✔️ Pay attention to age grading. If your infant is still only a few months old, they will be potentially unsafe in a stroller for ages 6 months+. If you'll be traveling with a newborn, look for a travel stroller that works from birth or that accommodates your infant car seat riding on top of it. Also, know your child's current weight and height, and read the requirements specific to your stroller to ensure it's appropriate. If you have to wait a few months to use the stroller, you can consider traveling with your infant in a baby carrier .

✔️ What happens when it folds? We like a stroller that can stand while folded, because you can set it and forget it while you deal with other travel and packing hassles. However, sometimes an umbrella fold, which is long and skinny, is nice for road trips when you have a tightly packed car. You can almost always wedge an umbrella stroller in there! Watch videos online to see how travel strollers fold and how you are expected to carry them in their folded position.

✔️ We like a canopy. We're nuts about sun protection (see our best sunscreens for kids ) and that's why all of our picks have at least some sunshade. We do not recommend one of the ultra-cheap sling-type strollers lacking any sun visor. But not all canopies are equal: Some extend far out, some have mesh panels for ventilation and many large canopies have peekaboo windows that let you easily peer down and see how your baby is doing. Some sunshades make noise as you move them in and out and some are silent. Finally, some are made of UPF 50+ sun-blocking fabric, which is preferable.

What a travel stroller is — and is not

There are many things you will not get in a travel stroller that you would get in a big, full-size stroller. A compact travel stroller won't have a huge basket because it must fold down small. It won't have large, heavy wheels either, which means it will not roll as smoothly as a stroller with robust tires . However, if you're using the travel stroller with a toddler or preschooler, their weight will help anchor the stroller to the ground and make it less jumpy as you push it over bumps. A travel stroller is essentially small, nimble wheels on a compact frame — something that's easy to take on vacations.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For more than a century the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have been dedicated to helping consumers make safe and sound choices when purchasing items for their home and family. You can trust our experts to test kitchen appliances like the Best Espresso Machines and lawn equipment like the Best Zero Turn Lawn Mowers . For kids we rank the Best Kids' Mattresses and, for travel with babies, the Best Pack n Plays and Playards .

This list was written by contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn who has followed the juvenile-products industry for decades, most recently for American Baby magazine and Parents magazine. She's a mother of two.

Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .

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