11 Best Sling Backpack for Travel | Updated 2024
Just think about a situation, you are traveling and you have a heavy, bulky backpack, and you need something very urgently. It can be very frustrating if you need something on an urgent basis and you can’t find it among other items. That’s when you need a sling backpack, which has only the things that you think you might need anytime. Our best 11 Best Sling Backpack for Travel is just for your help which will make your travel easy.
To put it in a simple way, sling backpacks are the best of both worlds of messenger bags that give you easy access to all your things and the convenience of carrying a backpack. They are usually bigger than sling bags, and easier to carry than backpacks. Sling backpacks are fancy, compact, made to come in handy, and are gender-neutral. So, you can keep things that you might need any time, things that are urgent, things that can’t wait, like a torch, medicines, etc according to your need. Sling backpacks are very lightweight and most of the time you won’t even feel you carrying anything unlike usual backpacks, which are way bulkier, it’s almost like the cargo pants you have.
Things to know before buying the best Sling Backpack for Traveling
Weight and size
As we have already said, sling backpacks are more compact and lightweight than a backpack. The average capacity of a sling backpack is somewhere around 8-10 liters, which when you compare with any normal backpack, is quite less. But there are also sling backpacks with capacity as huge as up to 30 liters. We will cover everything starting from 5 liters to 30 liters sling backpack.
You should never expect the sling backpack to have the same capacity as a normal backpack. Keep in mind how big do you want your sling backpack to be, before choosing your favorite sling backpack.
Comfort
As sling backpacks are made sleek and stylish and have one handle you should consider it to be very comfortable. It should not be felt as an extra burden, that’s the motto of a sling backpack. So keep in mind, it must be lightweight, do not over-stuff it with heavy items.
Try to keep it minimal and simple.as it has only one shoulder strap it might be very uncomfortable and cause sore shoulders if you pack too much into it. Look out for things like how comfortable, breathable and ergonomic is the strap because that is what is going to matter in the long term.
Durability
Traveling is a fun thing for us. It is healthy for our soul and mind, but maybe not for our backpacks. So another very important thing you should always keep in mind is the build and the material must be sturdy enough to withstand harsh conditions and tough weather.
Waterproof is a very basic thing you must look out for your sling backpack if you want your gadgets in your sling backpack. Other than that, there are various things that matter. Like the fabric material, the zippers, the stitches, the strap, and all. Heavy cotton and canvas material is good for durability, but I would say go for nylon or PVC material, because they are water-resistant as well as quite durable.
Packability
This is another very important feature you must look for if you want your sling backpack to fit into your luggage and you can take it out when you want to use it. Because you are not going to carry all your luggage with you all the time.
High-quality sling backpacks have this feature, they are super lightweight and foldable so you can fold into a small piece and carry it inside your luggage. But you do not need to spare an extra penny on this if you don’t really need it. So be wise and choose what is more important to you.
11 Best Sling Backpack for Travel 2021
1. Waterfly Chest Sling (10 L)
This sling backpack from Waterfly is worth a look, this is water-resistant, compact, ultra-lightweight, and can fit your tablet in one of the main compartments. The backpack also features an adjustable, comfortable strap, organizer pockets in the front compartment. So, now you can store all those small items without the fear of not being able to find them when you actually need them. It is made of 100% nylon which makes it durable and water-resistant. And the best part is, you get all these packed in an ultra-lightweight sling backpack weighing not even ½ pounds (approx 0.45 lbs).
| Product Specification Capacity | 10 L |
| Weight | 0.45 lbs |
| Material | Nylon |
| Features | Handy front organizer, can fit tablets and phones, water-resistant, breathable, and adjustable strap. |
Ultra-lightweight
Breathable material
Organizer pocket is very useful
[/i2pros][i2cons]Not enough space if you want to carry a lot of items.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
2. Patagonia Atom Sling Backpack (8 L)
Patagonia is a brand that is known for manufacturing outdoor gears. This backpack from Patagonia is perfect for traveling, trekking, and camping purpose. It is nice sporty, and pretty sturdy. It is made of recycled Nylon, so it’s comparative ecofriendly. The material is water-repellant which keeps all the accessories inside the bag safe and protected. This sling backpack has a capacity of about 8 liters and the compartments are super easy to reach. This backpack helps you to keep things handy when required. It also features a padded tablet pocket, so you don’t need to worry about your phones and tablets anymore. The sling backpack feels super comfortable on your back as if it is hugging you from behind, you won’t feel any stress.
| Product Specification Capacity | 8 L |
| Weight | 10.1 oz |
| Material | 100% recycled polyester |
| Features | Compartments are easy to reach, water-repellant, padded tablet sleeve, comfortable. |
Water-repellant
Comfortable on backLightweight
Padded tablet sleeve
[/i2pros][i2cons]No water bottle pocketThe phone pocket is a bit small[/i2cons][/i2pc]
3. Mouteenoo Sling Backpack
This sling backpack is one of our top picks. This is a great sling backpack that can fit your 15-inch laptop and is super affordable. The compartment for the laptop is well padded, so you don’t need to worry about your laptop anymore while on the go. This one also has a pocket for tablets as well as for your phone. It’s insane, right? It also features a pocket to carry your water bottle on the side. The straps are comfortable and padded, not just that, the back is padded as well which amps up its comfort. You can also use this as a chest bag for even better access.
| Product Specification Capacity | 11.8” x 4.3” x 16” |
| Weight | 10.1 oz |
| Material | Water Resistant Fabric |
| Features | Padded laptop compartment, pocket for a water bottle, comfortable, padded back, detachable mobile pocket on strap |
Breathable back panel
Water-resistant
[/i2pros][i2cons]Capacity is unknown
No padding at the bottom of the laptop sleeve.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
4. Pacsafe Unisex Venturesafe X Anti-Theft Sling backpack (6 L)
Have you ever wondered if your sling backpack can have an anti-theft system? Well yes, we have this anti-theft sling backpack for you. It’s quite useful because you carry all the essentials like cards, cash, tablets, phone in your sling backpack, so they need to be protected. This one from Pacsafe ensures all your valuables are safe from thieves. This backpack also features an RFID safe pocket for your cards. This can easily fit a 10-inch tablet. The straps and the back is well-ventilated which doesn’t make it uncomfortable in sweaty tropical weather.
| Product Specification Capacity | 6 Litre |
| Dimensions | 14.57” x 7.87” x 4.33” |
| Weight | 10.1 lbs |
| Material | Water-Resistant Nylon |
| Features | Cut-proof strap, anti-theft, RFID blocking pockets, hidden pockets, well-ventilated shoulder strap |
Cut-proof straps
RFID blocked pockets
Water-resistant
[/i2pros][i2cons]Doesn’t fit laptop
Not much of space[/i2cons][/i2pc]
5. NeatPack Canvas Sling Bag / Urban Travel Backpack
This backpack has plenty of room for you and many compartments to keep things organized. This sling backpack can fit up to 10-12 inch tablet, along with that it has plenty of space for other gadgets, valuable, water bottle, books, etc. This one is made of canvas material which adds up to its durability and can withstand a good amount of wear and tear. NeatPack Canvas sling backpack is ideal for weekend trips, it’s lightweight, has plenty of space and sturdy, has ergonomically designed padded straps, what else do you need for a sling backpack. It also features RFID blocked hidden pockets to keep you from unwanted scanning of your passport and cards.
| Product Specification Capacity | 12.50 x 4.00 x 18.50 inches |
| Weight | 13.6 oz |
| Material | Water-Resistant Polyester Canvas |
| Features | RFID blocking pockets, hidden pockets, well-ventilated shoulder strap, reflective material strip, cell phone pocket with headphone access |
Water-resistant
Breathable strap
Reflective material strip for added safety
[/i2pros][i2cons]Doesn’t have waist strap
Doesn’t fit 13” notebook[/i2cons][/i2pc]
6. Timbuk2 Catapult Sling 2.0
This one from Timbuk2 is quite unique in its design. It’s almost like a messenger bag but with a shoulder strap to make carrying more convenient. It is perfect for traveling, it has a lot of space, and also features the iconic beer bottle opener. So how ‘bout chilled beer on the go? Now you don’t have to carry a bottle opener with you. This backpack has a large pocket that is accessible from both the front and the back. The backpack also features an adjustable and detachable shoulder strap. Last but not the least it comes with Timbuk2’s lifetime warranty, so don’t worry about its quality and durability.
| Product specificationDimensions – 17.1 x 7.09 x 2.76 inches |
| Weight – 1.3 lbs |
| Material – 1830D Cordura Canvas |
| Features – beer bottle opener, padded pocket for laptop up to 11 inches, detachable strap |
Features detachable shoulder strap
[/i2pros][i2cons]Flap closure, not very safe
Shoulder strap isn’t very impressive[/i2cons][/i2pc]
7. 11 Tactical Rush Moab™ 10 Sling pack (18L)
This is a fully customizable, ambidextrous bag made of water-resistant, durable 1050D nylon. This bag has a huge room inside to keep everything you need on-the-go organized, a massive 18 L. The backpack has one main compartment and one front compartment also features a fleece-lined sunglass friendly pocket. And another pretty cool feature about this product is that it comes with the 5.11® Tier System, which enables it to integrate with other backpacks when you need to expand your storage. The sling backpack has cushioned, adjustable shoulder strap for maximum comfort. This backpack is built for regular use, it doesn’t hurt your shoulders or back, thanks to its, ventilation and cushioned back.
Read more: Best Waterproof Duffel Bags
| Product Specification Capacity– 18 Litre |
| Dimensions – 9 x 5.25 x 18.25 inches |
| Weight – 2.6 lbs |
| Material – water-resistant 1050D nylon |
| Features – completely customizable, 5.11 tier system to expand storage, fleece-lined pocket, adjustable cushioned shoulder strap. |
Water-Resistant 1050D nylon
Fits tablet
Features 5.11 tier system
Massive storage size
[/i2pros][i2cons]The back is a bit uncomfortable
The pocket for the phone might be small for you[/i2cons][/i2pc]
8. Outdoor Master Packable Sling Bag (12L)
This lightweight crossbody designed sling bag is not just very handy, but also very sturdy and stylish. It packs in enough room to carry cell phones, cameras, and a tablet or laptop up to 12-inch size. This sling bag is made of water-resistant nylon. Features reversible shoulder strap, meaning you can detach one end of the shoulder strap and attach it to any side of the bag. Its breathable shoulder strap and back increase the comfort level many times. This slingback is perfect for college, regular use. It is not bulky rather looks pretty cool and stylish on back, suitable for both men and women. It has a capacity of 12 L but immensely lightweight which I found very impressive. So overall, if you want a sling bag for your little adventure trip, or school or college this is the bag you are looking for.
| Product Specification Capacity– 12L |
| Dimensions – 11.8 inches x 4 inches x 17.7 inches |
| Weight – 1 lb |
| Material – water-resistant nylon |
| Features – Reversible shoulder strap, breathable shoulder strap and back, D-rings and hooks on strap for attachment, pocket for cell phone on the strap. |
Fits tablet and laptop up to 12-inch
Reversible shoulder strap
Features hooks to attach things
[/i2pros][i2cons]Zippers are not very long-lasting[/i2cons][/i2pc]
9. Maxpedition Kodiak Gearslinger Backpack (23L)
If you are looking for the rugged, rough, and tough, durable sling backpack for your next trek then this is it. It can withstand any kind of outdoor conditions, extreme environments, weather conditions. The back panel is padded keeping in mind your comfort while hiking or trekking. It allows your back to breath comfortably. It also features an anti-theft zipper capture system, that ensures your valuables are safe inside. It consists of several pockets inside the spacious main compartment of 23 L capacity. The pockets ensure everything is organized and can be found when required. It has dedicated pockets for almost anything. And on the top of everything this rugged beast is made of 1000-Denier water and abrasion resistant, light-weight ballistic nylon fabric. So hurry up and order this beast soon.
| Product Specification Capacity– 23L |
| Dimensions – 13.5″(L) x 7.5″(W) x 20″(H) |
| Weight – 2.8 lbs |
| Material – 1000D water and abrasion-resistant, lightweight ballistic nylon. |
| Features – anti-theft zipper capture system, fits up to 15.4-inch laptop |
Fits laptop up to 15.4-inch size
Anti-theft zipper capture system1000D nylon
External hooks to attach gears
[/i2pros][i2cons]A bit heavy than othersThe strap is not reversible[/i2cons][/i2pc]
10. KAVU Rope Sling Backpack (10L)
The KAVU rope sling bag is meant for daily use, it’s lightweight yet sturdy, doesn’t look bulky. It’s perfect mixture of durability and comfort. Its unique rope strap is soft and doesn’t hurt your shoulder. It has padded back, ensuring maximum comfort. The KAVU rope sling bag is made of durable 600D polyester which makes the bag water-resistant. It has two main compartments and two cellphone or key pockets. It’s simple and good looking. It’s super comfortable and also comes in variety of designs to suit your personality and mood. This can be your go-to sling bag for a day trip, outing with friends, movie, or museum trips, etc.
| Product Specification Capacity– 10 Litre |
| Dimensions – 20 x 11 x 3 inches |
| Weight – 11 oz |
| Material – 600D polyester |
| Features – padded back, rope strap, two vertical compartments. |
Comes in a huge variety of designs and colors
Comfortable rope strap
Water-resistant
[/i2pros][i2cons]The strap is fixed to the right shoulder
No hooks Not enough exterior pockets[/i2cons][/i2pc]
11. Seeu Oversized Sling Backpack (28L)
The most amazing feature about this backpack is its capacity; it’s a massive 28L sling backpack which is insane. As the name suggests, it is oversized indeed, so if you do not want such a huge sling backpack then you can move on to the next on the list.
Unlike other sling backpacks, it has a huge capacity, almost like a normal backpack. It can fit up to a 14-inch laptop easily. If you are looking for a sling bag for your next trip, or hiking, or trekking, or camping then without any further questions go with it. Because that is when you need the maximum space, and you want to keep everything handy, accessible. And the best part is, this sling backpack is not just about its capacity, it also features extra layers for better laptop protection, and this is scratch-proof, dust-proof, water-resistant. The largest compartment has 2-way zippers. Its slim design prevents it from looking bulky even when fully packed.
| Product Specification Capacity– 28 Litre |
| Dimensions – 19.00 x 6.00 x 2.00 inches |
| Weight – 1.04 lbs |
| Material – Water-resistant nylon |
| Features -14-inch laptop pocket with padding, headphone port, waist strap pocket |
Fits tablet and laptop up to 14-inch
Metal zippers
Headphone port
[/i2pros][i2cons]Not very ergonomically designed
Not as sturdy as they claim[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Conclusion
In this article, we have covered all ranges of sling backpack, every kind of it. The best of each kind is analyzed and chosen and reviewed with both pros and cons for your convenience. So that you don’t have to put much effort into it. There are sling bags for adventure trips, for work, for schools and colleges, and everything in between. So what are you waiting for? Click on the above Amazon.com links to buy your favorite sling backpack.
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