Ever feel like you’re constantly juggling what to carry? Maybe you’ve tried stuffing everything into a too-small bag, or perhaps you’ve ended up with a giant backpack for just a few items. Finding that perfect “just right” bag for your everyday adventures, known as an EDC or Every Day Carry backpack, can be a real challenge. You want something that holds your essentials without being bulky, something that’s tough enough for daily life but also looks good.
Choosing a 20L EDC backpack is a sweet spot for many people. It’s big enough for your laptop, a water bottle, a jacket, and all those little things you need throughout the day. But with so many brands and features out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Are you looking for pockets galore, or something sleek and minimalist? Do you need it to be waterproof, or just water-resistant? This can make picking the right one feel like a puzzle.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what makes a great 20L EDC backpack. We’ll break down what to look for, from comfort and durability to smart organization. You’ll learn how to choose a backpack that fits your lifestyle and makes carrying your day-to-day gear a breeze, not a burden. So, let’s dive in and find your perfect everyday companion!
Our Top 5 20L Edc Backpack Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 20L Edc Backpack Detailed Reviews
1. Vertx Ready Pack Tactical Backpack 20L for CCW
Rating: 9.0/10
The Vertx Ready Pack Tactical Backpack in black is a versatile bag designed for many uses. It works well for carrying your everyday items, for travel, or for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping. It’s also great for tactical gear and can be used for concealed carry.
What We Like:
- It has a more subtle look that helps you blend in. You can even hide a front flap to change its appearance.
- The bag makes it easy to get to your gear quickly and discreetly with a special pull tab.
- It includes a movable organizer piece called Admin Tactigami, so you can arrange your gear your way.
- There’s plenty of space inside with a main area, three gear slots, and places to attach more accessories.
- It features a special sleeve for your laptop. This sleeve can be taken out or moved around.
- The backpack is built to be used in many different situations, whether you’re working or enjoying the outdoors.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed to be discreet, the tactical look might still be noticeable to some.
- The 20L size is good for many things, but it might be too small for extended trips or carrying a lot of bulky gear.
This Vertx Ready Pack is a solid choice for anyone needing a well-organized and adaptable backpack for daily life or specific activities.
2. Vertx Urban Ghost Sling CCW Tactical Bag for Travel
Rating: 9.4/10
The Vertx Urban Ghost Sling CCW Tactical Bag is a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable and discreet bag for travel, work, or outdoor adventures. Its 20L capacity is great for carrying all your essentials, including your concealed carry gear. This bag is designed to keep your items safe and organized while helping you blend in anywhere.
What We Like:
- It looks like a normal backpack, so it doesn’t draw attention.
- The bag is made of tough material that won’t rip easily.
- You can lock the zippers to keep your belongings extra safe.
- It has many ways to attach extra gear, like with carabiner straps.
- It’s designed for quick access to your concealed carry items.
- There are lots of pockets and compartments to keep things organized.
- It has a special sleeve for your laptop or tablet.
- It’s comfortable to wear, even for long periods, with padded straps and a sternum strap.
- It’s ready for a hydration bladder, which is great for staying hydrated.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “unseen EDC concealment compartment” might be a bit tricky to access quickly for some users.
- While durable, the exterior might show scuffs over time with very rough use.
Overall, the Vertx Urban Ghost Sling CCW Tactical Bag offers a great balance of stealth, security, and organization. It’s a solid option for those who need a versatile bag for everyday life and preparedness.
3. Mardingtop Tactical Molle Backpack for Men – 28L EDC Hiking & Motorcycle Backpack
Rating: 9.0/10
The Mardingtop Tactical Molle Backpack for Men is a tough and versatile 28L pack designed for all your adventures. Whether you’re hiking, riding a motorcycle, or just need a reliable everyday carry bag, this backpack has you covered. It’s built with strong 600D polyester and features high-quality YKK buckles and zippers, so you know it can handle rough use. The padded back and shoulder straps make it comfortable to wear, even for long periods.
What We Like:
- Built tough with durable 600D polyester and reliable YKK zippers and buckles.
- Comfortable to wear thanks to breathable ventilation pads on the back and shoulder straps.
- Lots of ways to customize with Molle webbing to attach extra gear.
- Includes bottom compression straps for carrying sleeping bags or tents.
- Has a dedicated hydration compartment for a 2-liter bladder (bladder not included).
- The waist belt can be tucked away or used for extra support when needed.
- Works great for many activities like hiking, motorcycle trips, hunting, and everyday carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- The hydration bladder is not included with the backpack.
This Mardingtop backpack is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable and adaptable pack. It’s ready for your next outing.
4. QT&QY 25L Military Tactical Backpacks For men Survival Army Laser cut Molle Daypack small EDC Bug Out Bag Gym Rucksack With Dual Cup Holders medical Rucksack Black
Rating: 9.3/10
The QT&QY 25L Military Tactical Backpack is built tough for any adventure or daily grind. It’s a versatile pack that can handle everything from a day hike to a gym session, or even serve as a reliable bug-out bag. Its smart design and durable materials make it a great companion for those who need a dependable way to carry their gear.
What We Like:
- Plenty of space with a 25L capacity and multi-layer compartments for all your essentials.
- Comes with a removable US flag patch for personalization.
- Made from tough 900D polyester that is water-resistant and scratch-proof.
- Features a cool laser-cut MOLLE system to attach extra pouches and gear.
- Multiple pockets, including a dedicated laptop sleeve, keep your items organized.
- Opens flat to 180 degrees for easy packing and unpacking.
- Comfortable padded straps and back panel with mesh for good ventilation.
- Includes dual side pockets perfect for water bottles or umbrellas.
- High-quality zippers and an adjustable chest strap add to its functionality.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 25L capacity might be too small for longer trips requiring a lot of gear.
- While it has a laptop compartment, it might not fit larger laptops.
This tactical backpack offers a great balance of features and durability for its price. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a rugged and adaptable pack.
5. SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready for your next adventure? The SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack is a 20L daypack that’s perfect for both men and women. It’s designed to be lightweight, making it easy to carry on hikes, trips, or even just for your daily commute. This backpack is built tough to handle whatever you throw at it.
What We Like:
- The backpack is made from strong, water-resistant material. This means your stuff stays dry even if it rains.
- It’s tear-resistant and wear-resistant, so it won’t get damaged easily.
- All the important parts, like the straps, are reinforced. This makes the backpack last a long time.
- It’s lightweight, so it won’t weigh you down.
- The material is a tough 600D polyester and 210D nylon plaid fabric.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s water-resistant, it might not be completely waterproof in heavy downpours.
- For longer trips, 20L might be a bit small for some people.
This SKYSPER backpack is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and durable daypack. It’s ready for your outdoor fun or daily needs.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Perfect 20L EDC Backpack
What is an EDC Backpack?
EDC stands for “Every Day Carry.” An EDC backpack is a bag designed to hold all the essential items you need for your daily life. Think of it as your trusty sidekick, ready for work, errands, or even a spontaneous adventure. A 20-liter size is a popular choice because it’s big enough to carry a good amount of gear but still compact and comfortable for daily use.
Key Features to Look For
- Compartments and Organization: Good EDC backpacks have lots of pockets and dividers. This helps you keep your things neat and easy to find. You want a main section for larger items, a padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet, and smaller pockets for things like your phone, keys, wallet, and pens.
- Comfortable Straps and Back Panel: You’ll be wearing this backpack a lot, so comfort is key. Look for padded shoulder straps that are adjustable. A padded back panel also makes a big difference. It adds cushioning and can help with airflow, so your back doesn’t get too sweaty.
- Durability and Water Resistance: Your backpack needs to be tough. It should be able to handle daily wear and tear. Water resistance is also a great feature. It protects your belongings from rain or spills.
- Easy Access: You don’t want to dig through your bag for everything. Features like quick-access pockets or zippers that open wide make it much easier to grab what you need quickly.
- Aesthetics: While not as important as function, you also want a backpack that looks good! Many EDC backpacks come in various styles and colors, so you can pick one that matches your personal taste.
Important Materials
The materials used in an EDC backpack really affect how well it works and how long it lasts.
- Nylon: This is a very common and strong material. It’s tough, resists tearing, and can be made water-resistant. Cordura is a popular type of high-quality nylon.
- Polyester: Another good choice, polyester is also strong and can handle a lot of use. It’s often a bit more affordable than nylon.
- Canvas: While it looks classic, canvas can be heavy and less water-resistant unless treated. Some modern canvas bags have coatings to improve these qualities.
- Zippers and Buckles: Don’t forget these! Strong zippers, like YKK zippers, are a sign of a well-made bag. Durable buckles and clips also help the backpack last longer.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a backpack better?
- Sturdy Stitching: Look for double or triple stitching, especially on stress points like straps and seams. This means the bag won’t fall apart easily.
- Reinforced Bottom: A reinforced bottom protects your gear from bumps and makes the bag more durable when you set it down.
- High-Quality Zippers: Smooth-gliding, robust zippers are essential. They are used constantly, so they need to be reliable.
- Good Padding: Well-padded shoulder straps and back panels make a huge difference in carrying comfort.
What can make a backpack less good?
- Thin, Flimsy Material: If the fabric feels cheap and thin, it might tear or wear out quickly.
- Poor Stitching: Loose threads or single, weak stitches are a red flag.
- Cheap Zippers: Zippers that snag or break easily will frustrate you.
- Lack of Organization: If there are no pockets or dividers, everything will just become a jumbled mess.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good 20L EDC backpack makes your daily life easier. It keeps your essentials organized and protected. You can use it for:
- Work or School: Carry your laptop, books, lunch, and other work or study supplies.
- Commuting: Whether you walk, bike, or take public transport, a comfortable backpack is a must.
- Day Trips: Pack snacks, a water bottle, a jacket, and other items for a short outing.
- Gym or Fitness: Fit in your workout clothes, shoes, and a water bottle.
- Travel: It can even serve as a personal item on a plane, holding your essentials for the journey.
The best EDC backpacks are versatile. They adapt to your needs and make carrying your everyday items a comfortable and organized experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the best way to clean my EDC backpack?
A: Always check the care label first. Usually, you can spot clean with mild soap and water. For a deeper clean, hand wash in cool water and let it air dry completely. Avoid putting it in the washing machine or dryer, as this can damage the materials and coatings.
Q: Can a 20L backpack fit a 15-inch laptop?
A: Most 20L EDC backpacks have a dedicated laptop sleeve. Many of these are designed to fit laptops up to 15 inches, and some even fit 16-inch laptops. Always check the backpack’s specifications for exact dimensions.
Q: Is a 20L backpack too big for just a few items?
A: Not at all! While 20L is a good size, it’s still manageable. The key is good organization. Even with fewer items, the compartments will keep things from shifting around and making noise.
Q: How important is water resistance for an EDC backpack?
A: It’s very important. You never know when you might get caught in the rain or spill something. Water-resistant materials protect your electronics and other important items.
Q: Should I look for a backpack with a sternum strap?
A: A sternum strap, which connects the two shoulder straps across your chest, adds stability. It helps distribute weight more evenly and keeps the straps from sliding off your shoulders, especially when the backpack is full.
Q: What’s the difference between nylon and polyester for EDC backpacks?
A: Nylon is generally stronger and more abrasion-resistant than polyester. However, polyester is often more affordable and still quite durable. Both are good choices depending on your budget and how rough you plan to be with the bag.
Q: How much weight can a 20L EDC backpack comfortably carry?
A: While the bag itself might be rated for more, for comfortable daily carrying, aim to keep the weight around 10-15 pounds. The comfort of the straps and back panel also plays a big role.
Q: Are external water bottle pockets useful?
A: Yes, external water bottle pockets are very convenient. They allow you to quickly access your water without opening the main compartment of your backpack.
Q: What if I need to carry a lot of small things?
A: Look for backpacks with plenty of internal organization pockets, mesh pouches, and perhaps even MOLLE webbing on the outside if you want to attach extra pouches.
Q: How do I know if a backpack is good quality without seeing it in person?
A: Read reviews from other users, look closely at product photos for details like stitching and zippers, and check the materials listed. Reputable brands often use high-quality materials and construction.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.