To explore a variety of backpack models suitable for everyday urban use, visit the corresponding section in our catalog. Gamers may find the specialized gaming line of backpacks intriguing, although the selection is limited.

What is an urban backpack and how does it differ from models of other specializations?

An urban backpack is a practical accessory designed for everyday use in urban settings. It offers a convenient way to carry personal belongings and is particularly suitable for students and employees commuting to school or the office. Additionally, an urban backpack proves useful during leisurely walks, outings with children, or when running errands. It can also serve as a compact option for day trips or short hikes. While being a versatile solution, city backpacks have distinct features that set them apart from other specialized models:

  • trekking (hiking) backpacks are usually more spacious, have a well-thought-out suspension system for long-term carrying of heavy luggage, as well as more pockets and special tourist features (mounts, loops, cords, etc.);
  • sports — sharpened for jogging or cycling (constant active movement of the user), often smaller in volume than urban models, often have a drinking system and an aerodynamic shape;
  • tourist backpacks are close to solutions for the city, but are primarily suitable for flights (usually correspond to the dimensions of hand luggage) and trips. Often they have a mount on a suitcase, a characteristic rectangular shape;
  • tactical — as a rule, they are made in a characteristic military design (including camouflage colors), equipped with MOLLE slings. Suitable for military, hunter and fishermen.
The difference between the model for the city and outdoor activities is sometimes arbitrary.

Urban backpack models share similarities with backpacks for outdoor activities. The outdoor backpacks have a sportier design and come with more pockets. They also offer a wider range of volume options, typically ranging from 10 to 80 liters, whereas purely urban backpacks usually stay below 35 liters. Furthermore, outdoor backpacks often lack a dedicated laptop compartment, whereas it's a standard feature in city backpack models, though there are exceptions.

If you wear more formal business attire, commute to work using public transport, and need to carry a laptop, an urban backpack would be more appropriate. On the other hand, if you ride a bike, have a relaxed dress code, and prefer a sporty style, outdoor activity backpacks are worth considering. Sometimes, the line between these two types of backpacks is blurred, with manufacturers offering versatile options that cater to both urban and outdoor needs. However, certain "active" backpacks may lean more towards hiking styles than urban designs.

Outdoor Backpacks

It is worth noting that the models for the city are very variable in terms of colors and prints, plus there are many female versions on sale.

If you understand that you need an accessory for the city, then the next step is to deal with those components that are signs of a really cool backpack. This will be discussed further.

A comfortable design featuring an anatomically ventilated back and practical shoulder straps

In urban backpacks, heavy loads and prolonged, tiring walks are uncommon, which is why you'll rarely find sophisticated suspension systems with extensive backrest adjustments in these models. Such features are not necessary for their intended use. The same applies to the waist belt — if it exists, it is often thin and of limited use, primarily serving to secure the backpack around the pelvic area rather than evenly distributing the load.

But the following structural elements are really necessary for a good urban backpack:

It is better that there are ventilation channels and breathable material on the back.
  • anatomical (not rigid) back with ventilation, incorporating special grooves or inserts made from "breathable" fabric to facilitate air exchange and dissipate excess heat. While these elements may not completely prevent active sweating in hot weather, they help to keep your back relatively dry compared to designs without such features;
  • moderately wide (about 5 cm), preferably ventilated and soft shoulder straps. The pliability of the fabric ensures a better fit on the shoulders, enhancing overall comfort during wear. Ventilation is achieved through perforations or padded inserts on the straps. While rigid straps can also be comfortable, the level of comfort varies individually, making it advisable to try them on before making a purchase;
Back Ventilated Backpacks

  • Having a simple and easy adjustment system for the strap length is crucial for backpack comfort. Beginners often seek to find the perfect settings and prefer not to alter them once they do. However, having easily adjustable straps with secure latches that maintain the desired length is much more convenient. Loose straps make it easier to take off or put on the backpack, while slightly tightened straps provide better shoulder support. High-quality fittings from trusted brands ensure the best performance, although verification is advised in other cases;
Chest strap — it seems like it's not required for urban models, but it's convenient.
  • chest strap — not required, but encouraged. This element is often underestimated, but it offers significant benefits. It enhances comfort, reduces shoulder strain (like when carrying groceries after work or school), and keeps the backpack securely in place on the shoulders. With this feature, the backpack remains stable, doesn't shift along the body, and doesn't create unnecessary noise by rubbing against outerwear. Consequently, there is no need for constant strap adjustments.

We remind you that in public transport, according to the rules of etiquette, the backpack must be removed and held in hand. Accordingly, another little thing that is desirable is a handle. There are even models where there are two of them (top and side or from the front). When there is no handle at all, you can hold the backpack in your hand by the shoulder strap, however, this is not so convenient.

Side Handle Backpacks

What capacity should an urban backpack have?

Urban backpacks typically come in a limited capacity range, usually ranging from 15 to 40 liters, with only a few exceptions at 10 or 45 liters. For urban use, 35 liters is generally sufficient, and larger capacities are more suitable for travel or short hiking purposes. Despite slight variations in volume, these backpacks can be categorized into three groups: spacious, medium-sized, and compact options for city use.

In an urban backpack, a balance between spaciousness and dimensions is important.

The most spacious backpacks have a volume ranging from 30 to 40+ liters. These accessories can accommodate all daily essentials, including extra shoes, and leave room for unexpected items in case of emergencies. They are ideal for those who appreciate a minimalist style and prefer to use a roomy backpack for grocery shopping, carrying not just personal items or equipment but even several kilograms of vegetables and other purchases.

Under typical circumstances, a capacity of 30+ liters might be considered excessive for everyday use, but individual needs vary. For instance, individuals with large laptops (17 inches or more) will find suitable options among backpacks with such volumes. Spacious city backpacks become especially justified for frequent travelers who prefer to avoid carrying separate hand luggage during flights.

Laptop Backpacks

The main disadvantage is the rather large size, which can make itself felt in cramped spaces. This drawback is leveled due to the presence of side straps, which serve to compress an incompletely filled product. But in their absence, some roomy models, even with minimal luggage, seem very large and bulging.

Medium-sized urban backpacks have a volume of 20 to 30 liters. These backpacks offer great versatility, perfect for everyday use and short trips. Even models closer to the upper limit in capacity are highly functional, providing enough space for a laptop, camera, small gadgets, a water bottle, and perhaps a fleece or windbreaker. While they may not accommodate multiple clothing changes or extra shoes, they are well-suited for carrying essential items for daily activities.

If we talk about the laptop compartment, then it is usually designed for devices with a 15-inch screen, but this is not necessary.

The advantages of medium-sized backpacks include, probably, the most optimal ratio between dimensions and capacity. There are no obvious disadvantages against the background of the most capacious and most compact analogues.

Small urban backpacks are designed for up to 20 liters. This is a good choice for those who wear only the essentials to work or school. It will definitely fit a laptop, tablet, wallet and something else from the little things. But whether there is a place for a food container with lunch is an open question. It is necessary to check: in a model under 20 liters — probably yes, but for 15 liters — it is unlikely.

Among the "small" urban backpacks, there are numerous flat-form factor options, like the RIVACASE Suzuka 7760 15.6 with a thickness of less than 15 cm. These backpacks have a sleek profile, which allows them to blend in without causing inconvenience to others, especially in crowded places like public transport. This feature often eliminates the need to take them off to maintain proper etiquette.

The weight of an empty backpack is worth considering, and it is partially influenced by its volume. As the volume increases, more fabric is used during manufacturing, and additional compartments, zippers, and accessories are added. However, it's essential not to obsess over weight, as most city backpacks weigh between 1 to 1.25 kg, which is hardly noticeable on the shoulders. If you specifically desire the lightest model (up to 500 grams), you'll need to opt for one of the smallest in volume (up to 20 liters).

What compartments and pockets should be in an urban backpack?

Unlike backpacks designed for outdoor activities, urban backpacks typically have fewer compartments and pockets. However, a crucial feature often found in city backpacks is a dedicated compartment for a laptop. In well-designed backpacks, this laptop compartment is located at the back area, which is considered the safest and slightly more rigid than the front of the backpack. Additional protection measures for a laptop can be:

  • the presence of a special hard (or soft) insert at the bottom of the pocket, it protects the laptop if the backpack accidentally falls to the floor;
  • densely woven fabric and reinforced partitions within the compartment to ensure added durability.;
  • a latch or separate zipper that prevents the laptop from moving around within the compartment, providing extra security during transportation.
One of the most typical things in an urban backpack today is a laptop.

Quite often, the main compartment of an urban backpack has only one separate compartment for a laptop and a common place for other things. It is often more convenient when there are other storage areas, namely:

  • internal pockets for a tablet, chargers, power bank, headphones;
  • organizers for stationery;
  • mesh pockets, for example, for a charger or mouse, napkins or other small things;
  • carabiner for fixing a bunch of keys.

Thanks to this internal organization, you can avoid clutter and have quick access even to small items.

Outside the main compartment, the following pockets are quite useful:

  • frontal pocket — often suitable for a laptop or other compact, not thick items;
  • back pocket. This is a secure pocket from the point of view of intruders' access. Here you can carry a passport, rights, other valuable documents;
  • bottle pocket. It is useful in urban backpacks as it create additional space inside for other items and are designed to carry water containers or umbrellas. Placing the bottle on the outside prevents potential leaks from affecting gadgets or other contents inside the backpack. Moreover, it allows for easy access to the water bottle, providing convenience for staying hydrated on the go.
An open pocket for a bottle is convenient both on a hike and in the city.

The listed compartments are considered desirable for a good backpack. There may be other optional pockets, for example, top or shoulder strap. True, the latter are not always convenient: they stretch due to the bending of the fabric when worn, so putting or removing something on the go is very problematic.

Security (anti-theft solution)

Some urban backpacks are designed with features that consider the potential risks of street theft, specifically aimed at protecting valuables. While such protection may not be essential for a good backpack, its necessity depends on your specific usage scenarios. If you frequently use public transport, having special anti-theft measures can deter potential thieves and make them seek easier targets. Even when walking to school or work without encountering crowded intersections, other places like shops, stadiums, office elevators, etc., can still pose risks of theft.

The anti-theft solutions of modern urban models include the following:

Cut Resistant Backpacks

  • cut protection. Urban backpacks often use textiles reinforced with a metal mesh, enhancing their tensile strength and providing protection against potential threats such as sharp objects like coins (commonly used by pickpockets) or a clerical knife;
There is no perfect protection against fabric cuts, but high-quality fabric can add time to an attacker.
  • hidden zipper. This is a design feature of backpacks, in which the clasp is located closer to the back and makes it difficult to access the internal contents when the backpack is on the shoulders;
  • RFID protection. Such a chip suggests the presence of a compartment or pocket that protects RFID tags from unauthorized scanning (reading). It is here that it is recommended to store bank cards or passes so that their data is not available to intruders;
  • metal cable. Such an “anti-theft system” is often integrated into the shoulder strap and allows you to securely attach the backpack to a table in a cafe or a lamppost on the street. But if the lightning is not blocked, then the contents are not protected from theft.

Slightly less relevant security features for urban models include a rigid front panel (popular, for example, among motor backpacks or gaming solutions) and a TSA lock (welcome in travel products).

RFID Protected Backpacks

Materials for a good urban backpack

Manufacturers predominantly use nylon or polyester for urban backpacks. A less common option is artificial or genuine leather. Genuine leather is luxurious and expensive, but it comes with the drawback of being heavy and less practical. Maintaining the appearance of a leather backpack requires proper care and protection from water. Leatherette, another material choice, is even less durable than genuine leather and may not offer the best resistance over time.

Nylon and polyester can be considered balanced in terms of price, quality and practicality. Solid polyester fabric resists water well (especially with special impregnation), does not get dirty, does not tear (especially if RipStop weaving is used here). The denser the material, the more durable and reliable the backpack, but at the same time more weight and less elasticity.

High-quality synthetics of the backpack will not get wet quickly, but a raincoat is still desirable for showers.

Nylon is comparable to polyester in many aspects, although it may lose its marketable appearance slightly faster and is less protected against ultraviolet radiation. However, premium fabrics like Cordura or ballistic nylon can be exceptions to this rule. These dense fabrics with specialized weaves offer excellent water protection and tear resistance. While commonly used in tactical backpacks, they can also be found in some urban models. Backpacks made from these materials deserve praise for their reliability and durability, but their price is usually higher as a result.

Relying solely on manufacturers' claims about water resistance may not be sufficient. Home tests for wetness (without valuables inside) can be conducted or considering backpacks equipped with a rain cover might be an option. However, rain covers are not commonly found among urban backpacks. During heavy downpours, the weakest point of protection is often the zipper. Look for signs of water protection on the zipper, such as rubber coating or a minimum thickness when closed, as if it were turned inside out. This can indicate better water resistance for the backpack.

Useful little things in good city backpack:

  • high-quality fittings, including from the well-known brand YKK, considered one of the best in the world. If there is no information about the brand of zippers, fasteners and fastexes, then you need to look closely at the material — it should be reliable plastic or aluminum;
YKK zippers are a guarantee of hardware reliability.
  • compression straps are practical features found on backpacks, including side, front, top, or bottom straps. Apart from adjusting the volume and size of the backpack, they also secure outerwear or other larger items on the outside;
  • USB interface on the outside of the backpack. A useful addition just for everyday urban use. From the inside, you can connect an external battery to the existing port, and then “on the go” charge your smartphone or other wearable gadgets;
  • reflective elements. This is a useful little thing that increases user safety near roads with a lack of lighting. Not superfluous special inserts on the backpack, reflecting the headlights, will be not only for cyclists, but also for pedestrians.
Reflective Backpacks

What else to consider before buying an urban backpack

Finally, here are some helpful tips:

  • if you're interested in smaller models, consider single strap solutions known as slings. They offer easy access to contents without needing to be fully removed and are suitable for both men and women. However, they may not be suitable for teenagers still developing posture to prevent scoliosis;
  • avoid chasing an abundance of pockets in a backpack; instead, first assess your needs and then choose the appropriate compartments accordingly;
  • for gym-goers or workout enthusiasts, backpacks with two isolated compartments, including a separate space for dirty items, are ideal. The Rolltop system an provide convenient access to the content in such cases;
  • although natural and artificial leather versions may be less practical, they can serve as fashionable accessories and alternatives to handbags, especially for girls and women;
  • when information about the materials used in a backpack is limited, check the condition of the seams. Polyester threads are more durable and moisture-resistant compared to ordinary nylon threads. Look for brightly colored and shiny threads that do not stretch much and quickly return to their original shape without forming "pellets";
  • for professional photographers with high demands, it is probably better to consider not backpacks, but special bags ;
  • to assess the quality of a product, consider the fame and good reputation of the brand. Market leaders in backpacks include Deuter, Osprey, Thule, and XD Design. Additionally, brands like Samsonite, OGIO, EASTPAK, and Xiaomi offer noteworthy products;
  • after purchasing a new backpack, refrain from making hasty conclusions. Allow about a week to get used to it, adapt the compartments to your needs, and fully evaluate the pros and cons of the model in practical use.
Adding and removing things from the Rolltop backpack is very convenient.

Finding the ideal solution for city use may require two backpacks – a compact one for daily activities and a slightly larger one for short business trips or outings. However, individual needs vary, and some may require a second backpack for sports or outdoor activities, like fishing, which may need a specialized solution. The key is to always consider your specific needs and tasks to find the best backpack option for you.