Imagine this: you’re heading out for a big adventure, whether it’s a hike in the mountains or a busy day at school. You grab your trusty backpack, ready to go. But wait! Is it the *right* backpack? For many guys, choosing a backpack can feel like a treasure hunt with no map. You want something that looks cool, holds all your stuff, and doesn’t hurt your shoulders. It’s a big decision, and sometimes it feels impossible to find the perfect fit.
That’s where this guide comes in. We know how tricky it can be to pick a backpack that’s both stylish and super practical. You might be wondering, “What makes a backpack good for men?” or “How can I find one that fits my needs without breaking the bank?” We’ve all been there, staring at rows and rows of backpacks, feeling a little lost. But don’t worry, we’re here to make it easy!
By reading on, you’ll discover the secrets to finding the best backpacks for men. We’ll explore different types, what to look for in terms of comfort and durability, and even some awesome styles that will make you stand out. Get ready to say goodbye to backpack confusion and hello to your new favorite carry-all. Let’s dive in and find the perfect backpack for you!
Our Top 5 Backpack Men Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Carhartt 21L Classic Laptop Backpack | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Packino 24L Travel Laptop Backpack | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Backpack Men Detailed Reviews
1. MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack
Rating: 9.3/10
The MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and functional bag for work, school, or travel. This backpack is designed to keep your belongings organized and safe, all while looking stylish in its grey color.
What We Like:
- It has lots of space inside and many pockets to keep your things organized. You can fit a 15.6-inch laptop, plus other essentials like books and accessories.
- The backpack is comfortable to wear. It has padded straps and a padded back that helps air flow, so your back stays cool.
- It has a special pocket on the back to keep your valuables safe from pickpockets.
- You can easily charge your phone on the go thanks to the built-in USB port. Just connect your power bank inside, and you can charge your phone from the outside port.
- The backpack is made of strong, water-resistant material, so it can handle different weather.
- It has a strap that lets you slide it onto your suitcase handle, making it easy to carry when you’re traveling.
What Could Be Improved:
- The backpack doesn’t come with a power bank, so you need to supply your own to use the USB charging feature.
- While it fits 15.6-inch laptops well, some very thick laptops might be a tight squeeze in the dedicated compartment.
This MATEIN backpack offers a smart blend of organization, comfort, and security. It’s a solid option for staying prepared and charged wherever your day takes you.
2. Carhartt 21L Classic Laptop Backpack
Rating: 8.9/10
The Carhartt 21L Classic Laptop Backpack in Carhartt Brown is built tough for your daily grind and adventures. This pack holds 21 liters, so it’s great for school, work, or travel. It even has a special spot for your 15-inch laptop, keeping it safe and sound. Plus, it’s water-resistant, meaning your stuff stays dry even if it rains.
What We Like:
- It has a good amount of space at 21 liters, perfect for carrying books, a laptop, and other essentials.
- The water-resistant polyester keeps your belongings dry in light rain.
- A special sleeve protects your 15-inch laptop from bumps and scratches.
- Lots of pockets and compartments make it easy to organize everything you carry.
- Adjustable shoulder straps ensure a comfortable fit for everyone.
- Reflective details help you stay visible in low light.
- It’s made from durable 600-denier polyester, so it’s built to last.
- It’s PFAS-free, which is good for the environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- While water-resistant, it might not be fully waterproof in heavy downpours.
- Some users might prefer more padding in the laptop sleeve for extra protection.
This Carhartt backpack is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and organized way to carry their gear. Its sturdy build and smart design make it a great companion for your everyday journeys.
3. Packino 24L Travel Laptop Backpack
Rating: 8.6/10
The Packino 24L Travel Laptop Backpack is a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable bag for work, school, or travel. Its black, slim, and sturdy design makes it look professional, and it can hold large laptops up to 17 inches. This backpack is built to last and protect your belongings.
What We Like:
- Lots of Room: It has a special pocket for your laptop (fits 17, 15, 14, and 13-inch models) and a big main area for all your other stuff. The front pocket has many smaller pockets, so you can keep things like pens and keys organized and find them easily.
- Travel Friendly: This backpack is approved for carry-on luggage on airplanes. It fits perfectly under the seat or in the overhead bin, making travel simple and stress-free.
- Comfortable to Wear: The back has padding that lets air flow, keeping you cool. The shoulder straps are soft and adjustable, so they won’t hurt your shoulders. The padded handle on top is also comfortable for carrying it for a long time.
- Waterproof and Strong: Made from tough, water-resistant polyester fabric with metal zippers, this bag keeps your things dry even in the rain. The bottom is made of special leather, making it durable for daily use.
- Works for Many Uses: You can use this backpack for work, college, the gym, or weekend trips. Its stylish look makes it a great gift for students, travelers, and anyone who uses a laptop.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed to be slim, some users might prefer even more internal organization options beyond the front pocket.
- The “anti-theft” features are not explicitly detailed in the provided description, which could be a point of interest for some buyers.
Overall, the Packino 24L backpack offers excellent organization, comfort, and durability for a variety of needs. It’s a solid option for anyone looking for a versatile and dependable bag.
4. The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack
Rating: 8.8/10
The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack is a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a reliable bag for daily commutes, school, or short trips. It’s designed to keep your gear safe and organized, all while being comfortable to wear.
What We Like:
- It has a cool, modern look and a special finish that keeps water out.
- The backpack stands up on its own, making it super easy to get things in and out.
- It’s super comfy to wear, thanks to a special suspension system that’s good for your back.
- Lots of pockets and sleeves help you keep everything neat, including a special spot for your laptop.
- There’s plenty of room for all your stuff, and the laptop sleeve protects your computer.
- It has handy pockets on the outside for water bottles.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for everyday, it might not be the best for super rugged adventures.
- The size is good, but if you need to carry extremely bulky items, it might feel a bit tight.
This backpack is a solid companion for your daily journey. It balances style, function, and comfort perfectly.
5. The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack
Rating: 9.1/10
The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack in TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF is your go-to pack for daily adventures, whether you’re heading to class, the office, or exploring the city. This backpack boasts a water-repellent finish to keep your gear dry and a dedicated 16-inch laptop sleeve for safe transport. Its large main compartment easily holds all your essentials, making it a true everyday carry champion.
What We Like:
- Classic Design with Smart Storage: The familiar Borealis design includes a handy bungee cord for extra storage and compression. Multiple compartments and pockets keep your belongings organized and easy to find.
- All-Day Comfort: The FlexVent suspension system is certified by the American Chiropractic Association. It features comfortable shoulder straps and a rounded back panel that offers excellent support for your back and shoulders, even during long wear.
- Thoughtful Organization: Two external pockets are perfect for water bottles or other quick-access items. The front compartment has a padded tablet sleeve and secure zip pockets. A fleece-lined pocket protects your phone or sunglasses.
- Secure and Convenient Carry: A sturdy top handle makes it easy to grab and go. The removable waist belt offers a custom fit, and the sternum strap with a whistle buckle adds stability. 360-degree reflective details enhance your visibility in low light.
- Durable and Spacious: With a 28-liter volume, this backpack carries a lot. Its dimensions are 12″ x 6.5″ x 19.5″, and the laptop sleeve fits devices up to 13.75″ x 11.25″.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight: At an average of 2lbs 5oz, it’s not the lightest backpack on the market, which might be a consideration for some.
- Age Restriction: This backpack is not intended for children 12 and under, limiting its use for younger students.
Overall, the North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable, comfortable, and well-organized pack for their daily travels.
Your Go-To Guide for Choosing the Best Men’s Backpack
A great backpack is more than just a bag. It’s your trusty sidekick for work, school, travel, and everyday adventures. Finding the right one can make a big difference in comfort and organization. Let’s dive into what makes a men’s backpack a winner.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
- Capacity: Think about what you’ll carry. Do you need a small bag for just essentials, or a larger one for a laptop, books, and gym clothes? Backpacks are measured in liters (L).
- Compartments and Pockets: More pockets mean better organization. Look for dedicated laptop sleeves, water bottle holders, and small pockets for keys or snacks.
- Comfortable Straps: Padded shoulder straps are a must. Adjustable straps help you get the perfect fit. Some bags also have a chest strap for extra support.
- Back Padding: A padded back panel makes the backpack feel more comfortable, especially when it’s full. It also helps with airflow, keeping your back cooler.
- Durability: You want a backpack that lasts. Look for strong zippers and reinforced stitching.
- Style: Backpacks come in many styles, from sleek and modern to rugged and outdoorsy. Choose one that matches your personal taste.
2. Important Materials
The material of a backpack affects its durability, weight, and water resistance.
- Nylon: This is a popular choice because it’s strong, lightweight, and often water-resistant. Ripstop nylon is even more durable and prevents small tears from spreading.
- Polyester: Another common material, polyester is affordable and durable. It can be treated to be water-resistant.
- Canvas: Canvas gives a bag a classic, rugged look. It’s tough but can be heavier and less water-resistant than nylon or polyester.
- Leather: Leather backpacks look very stylish and sophisticated. They are durable but can be expensive and require more care.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things tell you if a backpack is well-made.
- High-Quality Zippers: Smooth-gliding, strong zippers are a sign of good quality. Brands like YKK are known for their excellent zippers.
- Reinforced Stitching: Look for double stitching in high-stress areas like strap attachments and pocket seams. This prevents the bag from falling apart.
- Water-Resistant Coatings: Many backpacks have a special coating to keep your belongings dry in light rain.
- Poor Stitching: Loose threads or uneven stitching often mean the bag won’t last long.
- Flimsy Zippers: Zippers that get stuck or feel cheap can break easily.
- Thin, Cheap Material: A backpack made from thin, easily torn material will not hold up to heavy use.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your backpack will guide your choice.
- Everyday Use: For school or work, you’ll want a comfortable bag with good organization for your laptop, books, and lunch.
- Travel: If you travel often, look for a backpack with plenty of space, secure pockets, and comfortable straps for long walks. Some travel backpacks open like a suitcase for easy packing.
- Outdoor Adventures: For hiking or camping, a durable, water-resistant backpack with good support and maybe a frame is essential.
- Commuting: A sleek, professional-looking backpack is great for daily commutes on public transport or by bike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best size backpack for daily use?
A: For daily use, a backpack between 20-30 liters is usually a good size. This lets you carry essentials like a laptop, books, and a water bottle without being too bulky.
Q: Are waterproof backpacks really necessary?
A: While truly waterproof backpacks are rare, water-resistant ones are very useful. They protect your gear from light rain or splashes. If you often face heavy rain, a waterproof cover or a fully waterproof bag might be worth considering.
Q: How important is back padding?
A: Back padding is very important for comfort. It cushions your back and helps distribute weight evenly, making the backpack feel lighter. It also improves airflow, which keeps you cooler.
Q: Can I use a large travel backpack for school?
A: You can, but it might be too big and bulky for everyday school use. A smaller, more organized backpack is usually better for carrying just books and a laptop.
Q: What does “ripstop nylon” mean?
A: Ripstop nylon is a special weave of nylon fabric. It has a grid pattern that makes it very strong and helps prevent small tears from spreading. This makes the backpack more durable.
Q: How do I clean my backpack?
A: Most fabric backpacks can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Check the care label for specific instructions. Avoid machine washing unless the label says it’s okay.
Q: Should I look for a backpack with a sternum strap?
A: A sternum strap (or chest strap) connects the two shoulder straps across your chest. It helps to stabilize the backpack and take some weight off your shoulders, especially when you’re carrying a heavy load or moving around a lot.
Q: What’s the difference between a messenger bag and a backpack?
A: A messenger bag is worn across the body. A backpack is worn on both shoulders. Backpacks generally distribute weight better and are more comfortable for carrying heavier items for longer periods.
Q: How do I know if a backpack is good quality?
A: Look for strong zippers, reinforced stitching, durable materials like good quality nylon, and comfortable padding. A well-made backpack will feel sturdy and well-constructed.
Q: What are the best brands for men’s backpacks?
A: Many great brands exist, depending on your needs. For tech-focused bags, consider brands like Incase or Thule. For outdoor gear, Osprey or The North Face are popular. For stylish everyday bags, Herschel Supply Co. is a good choice.
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.