Finding the best backpacks for men might seem like an easy task—go online, look at the price tag and/or storage space, click “buy” and that’s it.
Seems simple enough. Until you realize that you’ve bought a backpack that doesn’t fit you right and causes you back pain when using it.
Knowing the right materials, the right types, content protection, and durability features all play a vital role in buying a great backpack.
If all that seems like too much, then give our list a read as we did most of the legwork to hook you up with just the right backpack for every job.
Nomatic 40L Travel Bag Review
Top Travel Backpack for Men & Best Overall
- Shoe compartment
- Laundry bag
- Legal carry-on size
Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack Review
The Top Backpack for Men Who Travel
- Quality materials
- Large laptop compartment
- 45L Volume
Nomatic Messenger Bag Review
Among the Best Backpacks for Work
- Professional work bag
- Customizable panels
- May double as carry-on luggage
Nomatic McKinnon 21L Cube Pack Review
Among the best camera backpacks
- Simple, yet smart design
- Eliminates the need of carrying several bags/packs
- Customizable
Nomatic Navigator Sling 10L Backpack Review
Best Work Backpack for Men with Sling Strap
- Considerable capacity
- Water-resistant
- Comfortable sling strap
Nomatic McKimmon 35L Camera Pack Review
One of the Top Compact Backpacks for Men
- Exceptional build quality, sturdy materials
- Large camera compartment
- Tons of features for the working photographer
Nomatic Tech Case Review
One of the Best Backpacks for Laptops
- Simple, yet reliable
- Water-resistant
- Roller luggage sleeve
Backpacks for Men Reviews
After taking a thorough look at our list, here are the reviews so you have a better understanding of why we chose these products.
Nomatic 40L Travel Bag Review
Top Travel Backpack for Men & Best Overall
- Type: Carry-on backpack
- Volume: 40L
- Shipping/Returns: Free US shipping over $50, 30-day returns
If you’re often on the road (more precisely, on a plane), then you know that having a high-quality carry-on bag that keeps your stuff safe and enables you to make all your necessary belongings is paramount to feel comfortable during every trip.
If that’s the case with you, then you’ve probably heard about the Nomatic Travel Bag, which is a 40L, carry-on-sized bag, with lots of great features, and top-end materials.
Often listed on the highest rankings even among the top backpacks for men, it is made with durable, waterproof materials, and heavy-duty zippers. It also features a patented strap system that enables you to transform your backpack into a duffel in minutes. The Nomatic also comes with a custom laundry bag and several compartments for your shoes, tech, water bottles, clothes, enabling you to keep everything neatly organized.
In terms of user reviews, the Nomatic fared quite well. Without a doubt, it’s among the best out there in the carry-on category, with plenty of features, durable materials, great touches (like the shoe compartment, laundry bag, etc).
Truly a great piece of gear for every traveler.
On the other hand, some have mentioned that the duffel strap can be chunky, the laptop compartment can be hard to access, and generally, that the backpack is “trying too much”. For some, the myriad of features seems to clutter the overall experience, but that doesn’t mean that the Nomatic isn’t a great backpack for the serious traveler.
Pros
- + Shoe compartment
- + Laundry bag
- + Legal carry-on size
Cons
- − Too many features for some
Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack Review
The Top Backpack for Men Who Travel
- Type: Carry-on backpack
- Volume: 45L
- Shipping/Returns: Free ground shipping over $49, 30-day returns
How about a week’s worth of clothing, all your accessories, tech, and toiletries in a 45L backpack that’s full of high-quality features? If you are looking for top-of-the-line quality, the Tortuga Outbreaker backpack is definitely worth checking out.
Made from water-resistant materials, the Tortuga Outbreaker is a cool backpack for guys on the move who need a durable bag and won’t compromise on features.
Fitting for the majority of guys (15”-20” torsos), this backpack will also hold a 17” laptop and a 9.7” tablet.
The backpack features aireprene padding, YKK zippers, and a great suspension system that will allow you to tailor everything to your needs for a perfect fit.
Generally speaking, the Tortuga Outbreaker is a top choice for those who travel and who like to use advanced features.
The only downside to the Tortuga might be its weight. At a bit over 5lbs, it’s on the heavier side for a carry-on bag, which can be limiting when you’re flying with airlines (or places) with restricted weight limits.
Apart from that, you don’t have the option to carry it like a suitcase or a duffel, which isn’t a huge drawback, but at this price point, it would be really nice.
Even then, the Tortuga is a great backpack that will satisfy most requirements.
Pros
- + Quality materials
- + Large laptop compartment
- + 45L Volume
Cons
- − Too heavy if you’re dealing with a weight limit
Nomatic Messenger Bag Review
Among the Best Backpacks for Work
- Type: Workbag
- Volume: 15L
- Shipping/Returns: Free ground shipping over $50, 30-day returns
Most of us want to look highly professional in a professional environment. Everything has to be spot on, from our attire to our accessories. That is why the Nomatic Messenger Bag should be a go-to choice for every dedicated professional who takes his job seriously.
Undoubtedly, the Nomatic Messenger had to be put on the list, with its conservative, yet roomy 15L storage space, two customizable panels, magnetic fiddlock, and classic briefcase-like handle.
The bag also has magnetic water bottle pockets, an adjustable strap, a TSA-ready laptop compartment, and a full perimeter zipper—all this in a stylish and elegant design that speaks nothing but professionalism.
All in all, the Messenger Bag is clearly among the best stylish backpacks for men for work, which can also double as a work-oriented carry-on on flights, that’s lightweight and organizable enough to handle your tech and documents.
On the other hand, that’s kind of it. It’s not really a one-trick pony, but it’s definitely not built for hiking and longer traveling. Also, it probably won’t work well as a solo bag even on shorter travels.
Don’t get us wrong, for work, the Messenger Bag is quite unbeatable. However, there are more versatile options on the list for less that may also suffice.
Pros
- + Professional work bag
- + Customizable panels
- + May double as carry-on luggage
Cons
- − Limited use
Tortuga Outbreaker Daypack Review
Best Laptop Backpack for Men
- Type: Daypack/Laptop backpack
- Volume: 21L
- Shipping/Returns: Free ground shipping over $49, no-hassle 30-day returns
Sometimes, you want a backpack that gives you the best of both worlds; a reliable storage option for your laptop or tablet, and something that will also double as a great hiking backpack for those short weekend trips with friends.
If that’s what you’re after, then the Tortuga Outbreaker Daypack with 21L of volume makes for one of the best hiking backpacks for men, and a great laptop backpack that’s water-resistant, ensuring that your precious belongings stay safe and protected.
The water-proof sailcloth outer material, the YKK zippers, Duraflex buckles, and the ariaprene foam padding all make for a sturdy and comfortable backpack, with just enough volume to store all the things you need, let that be a shorter hike, work or school.
When it comes to the user reviews, most people were actually pretty pleased with the Outreaker, praising its comfortability and lightweightness.
Experts also talked highly of its pack-flat design and outstanding harness system, which is surprisingly comfortable for a daypack in this price range. The quick-access pocket in the front was another favorite.
However, one of the biggest negatives that they mentioned was the lack of padding around the laptop compartment and the fact that the water bottle compartments can become useless when you reach full storage capacity.
Apart from that, for the money, it’s still a great daypack.
Pros
- + Convenient
- + Lightweight
- + Durable
Cons
- − Laptop compartment could be better
Nomatic McKinnon 21L Cube Pack Review
Among the best camera backpacks
- Type: Camera pack/backpack
- Volume: 7L/21L
- Shipping/Returns: Free US shipping over $50, 30-day returns
No matter whether you’re a professional or a hobby photographer, you want to protect your precious gear and transport it in a safe that will keep it out of harm’s way.
If you want to combine such safety with the excellent design, then you should take a more thorough look at the Nomatic McKimmon Cube Pack which is pretty much the best of both worlds.
It features a customizable camera cube that can be expanded to a 21L bag that will allow you to carry much more than your photo gear.
Coming with customizable dividers and reliable straps, this is a simple and straightforward design, both lightweight and reliable.
For its main purpose, the McKinnon is an outstanding product. A lightweight camera cube that can turn into a simple, yet reliable daypack for carrying a few more extra things around. Other than that, it’s pretty limited.
Sure, it might pass as one of the cooler college backpacks for guys with a little thought and goodwill, but for the money, you still just get a camera cube+daypack without a lot of the Nomatic features that come with their premium items at a similar price.
Still, just like with the best surfboards, you get what you pay for, and with the Nomatic, you get premium quality even with the simplest products
As such, it’s a must for every photographer who’s serious about their gear.
Pros
- + Simple, yet smart design
- + Eliminates the need of carrying several bags/packs
- + Customizable
Cons
- − Limited features for the price
Nomatic Navigator Sling 10L Backpack Review
Best Work Backpack for Men with Sling Strap
- Type: Laptop backpack
- Volume: 10L
- Shipping/Returns: Free US shipping over $50, 30-day returns
If you want something pretty basic for work with just a little bit of extra “oomph” in the feature department, then the Nomatic Navigator Sling can be a great high-quality work bag for you.
It’s up to par with the best mini backpacks on the market, keeping your essentials neatly organized with a sleeve that can comfortably handle a 13” laptop or tablet. Plus, you get five additional storage pockets in the main compartment (one of them being an RFID safe pocket). The cord management system allows you to charge devices between the pockets easily.
Made with waterproof materials, the zippers are tamper-proof, not to mention, the bag even has reflective bars so that you can be seen in the dark.
There’s no need to argue too much here, the Navigator is among the best, hands down. The features are truly awesome and handy.
However, for the price, you can pretty much find other premium backpacks on this list that are mostly capable of what the Navigator does, even outshining it in other areas.
Even though the Navigator is a premium product, it’s probably not for you if you’re looking for an all-rounder backpack.
But, if you want to buy the best laptop sling bag, then this one is hard to top.
Pros
- + Considerable capacity
- + Water-resistant
- + Comfortable sling strap
Cons
- − On the expensive side
Nomatic McKimmon 35L Camera Pack Review
One of the Top Compact Backpacks for Men
- Type: Camera pack/backpack
- Volume: 35L
- Shipping/Returns: Free US shipping over $50, 30-day returns
Ïf you’re looking for a high-end backpack that’s great for every adventure, then the big brother of the Nomatic Cube Bag, the McKimmon 35L Camera Pack is the ideal choice.
Great for storing your camera gear, clothes, essentials, and laptop in one backpack, it’s a great compact option for anyone who takes going on an adventure seriously or needs reliable storage for their professional gear.
Given its characteristics and storage space, the Nomatic would shine even among good travel backpacks for men, with a great harness system and the durable build quality would pretty much withstand all the challenges of longer and regular travels, if you don’t mind the bulky, 5.75lb weight, that is.
The Nomatic is more of a pro’s backpack than anything else. The camera compartment keeps your gear safe—the main purpose of the backpack. That being said, only a few will really appreciate all the features. On that end, pros have mentioned that the size is simply too much, making the Nomatic kind of an overkill.
Not to mention, it’s simply a too expensive backpack that most users simply wouldn’t like to ruin by going outdoors, no matter how sturdy it is.
Still, the Nomatic is a top rated backpack for men for a reason. It’s a no-brainer choice for the professional photographer, but for avid hobbyists, it might be a bit too much.
Pros
- + Exceptional build quality, sturdy materials
- + Large camera compartment
- + Tons of features for the working photographer
Cons
- − Too expensive/mostly reserved for professionals
Nomatic Tech Case Review
One of the Best Backpacks for Laptops
- Type: Camera pack/backpack
- Volume: 35L
- Shipping/Returns: Free US shipping over $50, 30-day returns
Sometimes, you’re just looking for the simplest possible solution. When you’re out on the market to buy a gym bag, you’re looking for a simple and sturdy duffel that can hold your gym gear, shoes, accessories, massage guns, protein shakes, etc. In other instances, you just want a great storage option for your laptop.
If you’re looking for the latter, then the Nomatic Tech Case will give you everything you require from a laptop bag and more.
Great for holding any 15” laptop/Macbook, the Tech Case is up to par with the best laptop backpacks on the market.
The durable, water-resistant coating and a removable strap make for a handy and sturdy product that comes with several internal pockets to ensure all of your tech products are in place and neatly organized.
A good, simple, and reliable case that doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. For the most part, it will satisfy your needs if you’re only carrying your laptop to work/school,
When compared to the best computer backpacks, no matter how handy, the Tech Case tends to fall short because of the lack of features and storage space. Especially when you take into account that there are great daypacks that will be able to hold larger laptops and will also have enough space for other essentials as well.
That being said, if you’re looking for a good laptop bag, it can’t get any better than this. However, if you’re after something more versatile, you can find something more useful here on our list.
Pros
- + Simple, yet reliable
- + Water-resistant
- + Roller luggage sleeve
Cons
- − Limited use
How to Pick the Best Backpack for Men: A Buyer’s Guide
Now, after finishing up our reviews, here’s all the info you need about backpacks to make the smartest decision when making a purchase.
Backpack Types
First thing’s first, let’s start with the basics. Here are several different types of backpacks you can come across on the market.
Traditional Backpack
Probably most of you are already familiar with this backpack type, as they are used in most situations. They can be a great option for school, work, travel, and some consider them the best backpacks for hiking, especially shorter distances, as they have a minimalistic design, a single compartment pouch, and two straps.
A great lifestyle product that’s great for everyday use.
Rucksack
Also comes with a main pouch (and may have more than one compartment) but it uses a flap and buckle solution for securing the bag instead of a zipper. Some will argue that this will make it less secure than a backpack with a zipper, while others state that this gives more storage space as it lets the pack expand a bit.
Daypack
These are great for lightweight travel, and some will argue that they make the top pick for hiking. Usually water-resistant, made of durable materials that will take up a fight with the elements. All in all, these are light yet durable packs that have enough storage space to make them ideal for shorter trips and hikes, like weekend outings.
Laptop Backpack
As the name suggests, these are great for people who need a pack with a laptop compartment that will keep it safe and secure. As such, these packs would be a great option for working professionals or the best college backpacks.
If you opt for quality options, you will find packs with extra padding around the laptop compartment for extra protection.
The only thing to keep in mind here is your laptop’s size. You want to buy the backpack with the right size compartment to be all set.
Frame Backpack
Often simply referred to as the “backpacking backpack”, these types are great for long trips and adventures.
Great for travel, these usually represent an all-in-one solution for carrying everything you might need for a larger trip.
They have lots of storage space, somewhere from 35 to 55L, come with carrying straps, and are designed to be comfortable and sturdy to withstand long-term use.
Tactical or Military Backpack
If you’re looking for versatile, durable, and robust packs, these are the ones that will do the job. Featuring heavy-duty carrying capabilities, the best military backpacks are made with dense material fabrics that are resistant to water and tearing, and rugged enough to stay usable even in the toughest environments.
That being said, they are also great for outdoor adventures, however, they can be quite expensive.
Tote Backpack
A combination of a backpack and a tote bag, this is designed both to be carried in your hands and on your back.
Sling Bag
If you’re looking to get one of the best lightweight options, an “over-the-shoulder bag”, or a sling bag can be a great option. As the name suggests, it has only one strap, and can be a great school/work bag, and choosing it over a traditional backpack is more about personal preference than anything else.
Drawstring Backpack
Another great lightweight option, it can be great for carrying extra clothes and shoes for the gym. While the best gym backpacks are more on the robust side with more space, if you have only a few items in your bag, this will do, as it’s a rather great choice for additional backpack storage if you’re already carrying something around.
Most experts advise this as a secondary option for your additional belongings.
Knapsack
A knapsack is a special combination of a drawstring pack and a rucksack. There’s only one pouch for storage and two traditional straps. If you’re looking for something minimalistic and easy to use, a good knapsack might be a great option for a quality backpack for men.
Dry Bag Backpack
A dry bag is similar to a framed backpack, meaning they are robust and sturdy, with the main difference being their size. It’s smaller and more focused on being water-resistant. If you’re looking for something durable, it can be a great hiking pack especially in areas with a wet climate.
Suitcase Backpack
Looking for the best hybrid backpack for men that has a classy touch to it and can double as a nice carry-on bag on flights and business trips? Compact suitcase backpacks fit easily into overhead bins on planes, making it a great flying companion on shorter flights.
Hydration Backpack
With an ergonomic and comfortable design, the hydration backpack is among the best all-in-one solutions for cyclers, runners, hikers, and climbers. The most significant feature of these packs is the hydration bladder compartment that allows you to store water easily. As one of the best biking options, these are a must if you’re going on a demanding outdoor adventure.
OutDry Backpack
Lastly, this is a well-constructed and robust backpack, also designed for outdoor use. It’s a waterproof item that’s easy to carry, comfortable, and secure.
OutDry backpacks are usually made from tough materials, making it an ideal long-term investment that probably wouldn’t set you back as much financially as some of the top-end military bags.
Choosing From the Best Backpacks for Men: Other Considerations
While knowing the different types of backpacks can certainly make a purchase easier, there’s more to buying a backpack than just that. There are other factors that you might need to address before really pulling the trigger on a backpack.
Comfort
This should be your most important factor when choosing a backpack. If it’s weighing you down or hurting your back, then the whole purchase was kind of pointless. No matter if you’re looking for a school backpack, or something for a huge adventure, comfort comes first.
That’s why you should inspect the shape of the backside, the padding, and the straps as they all contribute to comfort.
Look for options like adjustable padded straps that reduce the strain on your shoulders and back while enabling you to fine-tune the optimal length of the straps.
If possible, also look for a contoured backside that follows the natural shape of the lower back.
Lastly, the best travel backpack for men will also have awesome features like a padded hip belt that allows better weight distribution on those larger trips or hikes.
Durability
Apart from comfort, you will also want to make sure that your new backpack will last. Most heavy-duty options are made of strong nylon materials and often use YKK-grade toppers. Polyester and nylon are by far the two most popular materials but there are other materials too, like canvas. You also have leather, but you should know that they usually won’t be cheap.
Furthermore, keep a closer eye on the shoulder straps, because they are the most susceptible to wear and tear. Inspect the thread material and the sewing. Look for double-stitched options and always look for carrying the load amount your bag is able to handle.
Size
The question of the right size can boil down to two factors—your personal needs and body.
Looking at the latter, you will want to get a backpack that has a size appropriate for your torso length.
If you’re looking for backpacks for big guys, the general rule of thumb is to look for packs that fit torsos at least 20” and above. Medium sizes are between 18” and 20”, while small and extra small options are usually always under 18”.
If the size is off, the weight won’t be balanced properly which might not be a problem in the case of carrying your stuff around during small daily commutes, but can be a huge problem on long hiking trips.
Also, know what you want to use the backpack for. Let’s say, you’re looking at something stylish, but you end up buying something that doesn’t fit your laptop.
Furthermore, if you want to get a travel pack, make sure to buy something that will be able to store all your belongings. Buying a too small or too large backpack can often defeat the whole purpose of the investment.
Style
Chances are, you will want something really cool-looking. Design is also an important factor, so go with something that compliments you. The right backpack for you will usually blend into their overall look so look for something that fits your style the most.
Content Protection
Above, we’ve already talked about sturdy materials and water-resistant features. These are also essential factors when it comes to buying a solid backpack as one of the main purposes of a pack is to keep your belongings safe.
That being said, the best outdoor backpacks will mostly be crafted from polyester and/or nylon as they are often waterproof options that are musts in outdoor adventures.
Organization
Single pouch, or multiple compartments and pockets, it’s all your choice. If you want a more minimalistic pack, then you might want something lightweight with one large pouch.
This way, you can throw everything in the bag quickly, but your stuff won’t be organized and might even be difficult to find.
On the other hand, if you want a backpack with multiple compartments, then you can organize your belongings better and allow for easier access.
This can come in handy if you are carrying different stuff around from clothes to water bottles. Heck, if you’re on a cycling trip, you might even be able to carry your best bike pump with you for emergencies.
Your Needs
We’ve already touched bases on this before. The type of activity you want to use the backpack for will ultimately help you decide the type of backpack you should be getting. Chances are, if you’re going on vacation, you will be looking at the best traveling backpacks and not something you’d use for work.
On the other hand, you don’t have to be overly precise either. Getting a universal backpack will ensure that you will have enough space both for your school and work needs. Such a backpack can even be a good gym bag and a great travel companion. As long as it has the space you need and is comfortable enough (not to mention, durable) you’re good to go.
Material
Longevity is also an important factor. That being said, here are the most common backpack materials:
- Leather: These would make a fine and durable option with a stylish touch to it, however, such backpacks tend to be on the more expensive side. They make great work backpacks, but might not be your best option for hiking as the leather could get damaged.
- Cotton canvas: A rough, heavy-weight cotton material that’s often waterproof and durable. It’s mostly regarded as an inexpensive material and sturdy enough to withstand the challenges of everyday use and longer hikes as well.
- Cordura: An “air-treated” nylon fabric that’s abrasion-resistant and light. Often cited as one of the best materials for hiking backpacks, Cordura packs are usually high-end materials that will work great in the outdoors.
- Pack-cloth nylon: Slick and shiny to the touch, backpacks made from this material have great puncture resistance and will usually have waterproof coating as well.
- Polyester: Not the most rugged material for a backpack but it’s strong enough for everyday use, potentially making great go-to options for guys who are looking for the best backpacks for college on a budget.
- Rip-stop nylon: This material provides extra protection meaning that it’s a great option for longer hikes. It’s also water-resistant and lightweight, making it a comfortable option to wear on your back for longer periods.
Budget
The price of the backpack will mostly depend on the materials being used and the features it has.
When it comes to budget, it’s usually not a smart thing to compromise quality for the price as your backpack may tear open during use, which is, well, just rather inconvenient.
For the best motorcycle backpacks, be ready to spend a bit more, as they are mostly leather options that look really cool and make a statement even when you’re wearing them without your bike.
On the other hand, there are solid basic packs out there that could be great and durable options for everyday use. It all boils down to what you need, the type of fabric you’re after, and whether you prefer name brands or are okay with cheaper things.
Conclusion
Stylish, high-quality, and reliable—these are the right words to describe the products on our list, which are, in our humble opinion, the best backpacks for men on the market currently. As you can see, there are different types of backpacks for different occasions and you should know how to choose the one that fits your needs best.
Aa such, we hope that the products on the list, the reviews, and our guide all helped you make a smart decision.
FAQs
What is the best backpack for men?
This will mostly depend on your personal needs and preferences. If you’re a guy who just needs something for his personal items, a smaller, sturdy backpack might be all you need. In that case, a solid Tortuga pack, like the Outbreaker Daypack can be a great option.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a great gym bag, you will want something with more space and probably something with a longer sleeve.
Also, if you need something more specific, like a camera bag, Nomatic has some great options.
Lastly, if you are looking for a great travel backpack, then Tortuga, Paxis Pax, and Nomatic all have something to offer.
Where to find backpacks for men?
Well, here.
Jokes aside, you can look for brands on their dedicated websites, look on larger eCommerce platforms, visit stores that sell sports equipment, you may even find some good offers at men’s fashion stores.
It isn’t about where to find the best backpack, it’s more about what kind of backpack you need. As mentioned above, your needs might actually determine the type of back you should be looking for. In that sense, feel free to give our guide a more thorough look to see what bag types would suit your requirements best.
How much is a supreme backpack for men?
If you want the best of the best, then you will pretty much have to spend at least $120 on a high-quality backpack, and if you want truly the best items on the market, you might even have to spend near $300. However, in that case, you are buying a top-of-the-line product that will probably satisfy your every need.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a large travel pack, there are less expensive deals out there (even on this list). These value options will usually have only the basic features, might not have all the best quality materials, but they will still get the job done.
Who makes the best military backpacks?
Giving a solid answer will also depend on several different factors. For instance, budget will play an important role as these backpacks tend to be on the expensive side, starting at around $160 and may even go as high as $800.
On the other hand, features and materials should also go into account, because you might be looking for something slightly different from the other person.
However, if you just look at what the pros use, then the Matbock Mr. Dry 2.0 military backpack would be the best of the best since it’s used by Navy SEALs.
