18 BEST EDC Backpacks for Every Budget and Lifestyle [2024]

TL;DR: The best EDC backpack is the Troubadour Apex Explorer Backpack. It has a spacious 25L capacity, multiple storage pockets, padded ergonomic straps, eco-friendly and durable construction, and a stylish minimalist design suitable for a variety of settings.

I’m an everyday carry backpack enthusiast, but that wasn’t always the case. As a teenager, I picked out a new crossbody messenger bag for school every year.

This type of bag left my shoulders and neck muscles sore from the unbalanced weight slung to one side of my body.

These days, I carry an EDC backpack as my everyday purse, and it feels so much more comfortable. 

Plus, wearing a backpack leaves my hands and arms completely free.

But what are EDC bags? The abbreviation EDC stands for “everyday carry.”

So, an EDC backpack is the perfect bag for people like me who feel most comfortable using packs daily. That’s why I decided to write this EDC backpack list.

A great EDC pack is, above all else, versatile–you can use it as a purse, a gym bag, a school bag, on hikes, or even as a carry-on bag while traveling. 

So, if you’re searching for a high-quality everyday carry backpack, keep reading for a list of the best EDC backpacks, plus some handy shopping tips!

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

#1 Aer Travel Pack 3

Best Large EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.8/5
Volume: 35 liters
Weight: 4.1 pounds
Best for: Travelers and people who frequently need to carry a lot of gear.

Aer is a leading brand that makes top-quality modern backpacks, and the Aer Travel Pack 3 is a large-capacity backpack with tons of storage space. 

Although it has a travel-focused design, it’s also compact and convenient as a large everyday carry bag.

With a zipper that runs all around like a suitcase, it’s the best EDC clamshell backpack. The internal frame adds weight but provides extra stability to help support the weight of your gear.

The Aer travel pack also uses a high-quality, nylon-based material called Cordera, and it has a padded laptop pocket that can fit devices up to 16″. 

For a matching set, I recommend the Aer Go Pack 2. The Aer Pack 2 is 1.3 pounds and stows perfectly inside of the Travel Pack 3 to be used as an Aer day pack while your other belongings stay organized in your hotel room.

#2 Matador Beast 18 Technical Pack

Best Lightweight EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.6/5
Volume: 18 liters
Weight: 1.3 pounds
Best for: People who are prone to shoulder pain.

When it comes to bags and luggage, weight is crucial. A lightweight bag means you can pack more of your belongings with less strain on your shoulders. 

The Matador Beast 18 Technical Pack weighs just over a pound and has an 18-liter capacity to keep your load light. Considering it has a steel frame, this bag’s low weight is even more impressive. 

It also has EVA foam padding in the back panel and adjustable shoulder straps. Combined with the hip belt, it’s the best EDC pack for carrying heavy loads without hurting your shoulders and back.

This bag also includes two internal pockets, and gear loops on the outside to keep everything organized, and its nylon outer has a waterproof UTS coating to keep contents dry.

But if you’re a true outdoor guru, you’ll be most relieved by the additional mesh pockets that fit a Nalgene (even if it’s tight).

#3 Fjallraven Kanken Mini Classic Backpack

Best Small EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.7/5
Volume: 7 liters
Weight: 0.5 pound
Best for: Fashionable commuters who don’t need a lot of gear daily.

I used to think that I needed a big steel-framed backpack for everyday essentials. But not always.

Now, when I only want to carry my wallet, keys, phone, book, journal, and a few emergency items, I reach for my Fjallraven Kanken Mini Classic Backpack. 

Fjallraven Kanken is a sustainable brand from Sweden known for its stylish backpacks. And the mini is a smaller version of their classic design.

This stylish EDC backpack comes in twenty unique colors, including sky blue with rainbow shoulder straps. 

But there’s more to Fjallraven everyday carry backpacks than just a pretty face. 

The outer material is called “Vinylon F,” which is resistant to both dirt and water and easy to clean. It has a modest seven liters of storage space and only weighs half a pound. 

Fjallravens aren’t only the best EDC backpack for women, but also the best EDC backpack for men who want something small, roomy, and hip.

#4 Boundary Supply Rennen Recycled Daypack

Best EDC Backpack for a Laptop

Star rating: 4.8/5
Volume: 22 liters
Weight: 2 pounds
Best for: Adventurous creatives and digital nomads who value sustainability.

I’ve worked as a digital nomad for over a year now. Many everyday backpacks include a dedicated laptop sleeve or padded laptop compartment, but the Boundary Supply Rennen Recycled Daypack takes things to the next level.

Special recycled materials and efficient organization make it the best backpack with a laptop sleeve.

Boundary’s Rennen backpack series is made of 60% recycled materials. These durable materials are Bluesign approved, which is the highest textile certification for not containing harmful substances.

Plus, it’s a relatively small and lightweight backpack, yet the bombproof laptop compartment fits devices up to 16″.

It’s the perfect design for taking my laptop to work at a cafe or library: big enough to fit the necessities, a water bottle, and lunch, but not cumbersome.

And for anyone carrying camera gear, there’s a photo kit that includes a camera cube, tech case, and lash straps.

#5 Osprey Daylite Plus Pack

Best EDC Hiking Backpack

Star rating: 4.7/5
Volume: 20 liters
Weight: 1.3 pounds
Best for: Outdoorsy people looking for a go-to bag.

The Osprey Daylite Plus Pack is the best EDC pack for people who like to hit the trails on the weekends but don’t want a separate backpack just for hiking. 

The super-comfortable ergonomic shoulder straps have mesh-covered foam for ventilation to prevent them from getting too damp and sweaty. And at just over a pound, it won’t weigh you down on a long hike.

This versatile pack has a padded interior sleeve within the main compartment that fits a 15″ laptop or a hydration pack, depending on whether it’s a workday or hike day. 

Other convenient features for hikers include an adjustable sternum strap, a removable hip belt, and dual water bottle pockets. 

The Daylite Plus also has a water-resistant exterior made from durable recycled fabrics and a water-repellent coating — take that rain clouds!

#6 GoRuck GR1-USA

Best Tactical EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.9/5
Volume: 21 or 26 liters
Weight: 2.8 or 3.1 pounds
Best for: Frequent campers.

A tactical backpack is a military-style backpack that prioritizes utility. GoRuck’s GR1-USA is the real deal.

It’s the best EDC survival backpack around, perfect for camping and outdoor activities and everyday use.

These tactical bags have a water-resistant, 210D back panel and padded shoulder straps that help distribute weight. It’s designed to ensure comfort for active people on the move.

Inside this tactical backpack are a padded laptop compartment and zippered compartments for smaller items. It’s no wonder reviewers rave about this bag’s functionality and durability.

If the GoRuck GR1 isn’t in your price range, a competitive alternative is the 5.11 Tactical Backpack.

#7 Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City

Best Waterproof EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.8/5
Volume: 21 liters
Weight: 1.6 pounds
Best for: People who live in places where it rains a lot.

Who here bikes to work? Getting caught in a storm with everyday carry backpacks is risky business. . . unless you have a waterproof EDC backpack.

Luckily, the Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City is extremely water-repellent and relatively lightweight thanks to polyurethane-coated nylon. It’s the best EDC commuter backpack for bikers.

This bag includes a removable laptop compartment that fits a 15″ laptop and a front zipper pocket for easy-access items. Plus, a removable sternum strap and hip belt.

With the top rolled 3-4 times and buckled shut, you can feel safe dancing in the rain with your Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack City.

#8 Pelican Weatherproof Mobile Protect Backpack

Most Durable EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.7/5
Volume: 20 liters
Weight: 1.43 pounds
Best for: Backpack enthusiasts who want to make a purchase that lasts.

Anything from Pelican Products is a safe bet if you’re looking for durability. 

Pelican began manufacturing indestructible gearboxes, and they expanded to many other products — from phone cases to coolers. 

The Pelican Weatherproof Mobile Protect Backpack has a 1000-denier water-repellent nylon outer shell and compression-molded EVA shoulder straps. 

Its main compartment includes a drop-proof laptop section, thanks to ballistic nylon-coated EVA. 

Plus, there are two secret pockets on the sides and a vertical front pocket.

#9 Kodiak Katmai Leather Backpack

Best Leather EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.8/5
Volume: 16 liters
Weight: 2.1 pounds
Best for: Glamorous, style-savvy travelers.

This Kodiak Katmai Leather Backpack is the most stylish EDC backpack. It’s perfect as a carry-on for traveling but small and stylish enough to use every day.  

There are three main zippered compartments, plus a zippered back compartment for your laptop. An internal zippered pocket adds security for your wallet, passport, and documents.

Kodiak’s premium leather is supple and develops character with wear. I’m a fan of the black leather with silver-colored hardware, but you can also find this bag in Dark Walnut and Saddle brown.

Whether you’re looking for a gift for someone else or a new EDC travel backpack for yourself, the Kodiak Katmai Leather Backpack will be a beautiful accessory for the long haul.

#10 Troubadour Apex Backpack- Explorer

Best Urban EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.9/5
Volume: 25 liters
Weight: 2.2 pounds
Best for: Busy professionals who like to carry their whole lives in their bags.

The Troubadour Apex Explorer Backpack is another high-end EDC backpack with an excellent reputation.

It has a stylish, minimalist design with a slim profile, lightweight construction, and a surprisingly vast 25-liter capacity. The appearance makes it the best EDC office backpack, while the features make it incredibly versatile.

The Explorer Backpack has a padded laptop section that can fit a 16″ device. It also has a zippered front pocket, with external pockets to hold your water bottle. 

Plus, the outer material, the lining, and the zippers are all waterproof. 

Troubadour is a certified B-Corp, that uses recycled materials, ethical practices, and carbon offsets.

Overall, it’s fashionable but prioritizes functionality, making it the perfect backpack for running around a cityscape.

#11 RAMHORN 26L Laptop Backpack

Best Budget EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.7/5
Volume: 26 liters
Weight: 1.54 pounds
Best for: Creative professionals who love a bargain.

Breathtakingly cheap, the Ramhorn 26L Laptop Backpack is one of my favorites. 

I bought it as a carry-on and for day trips while traveling internationally. I was on a strict budget but still wanted something cute and stylish.

The Ramhorn Backpack is spacious without being bulky. It comes with padded shoulder straps and the fabric feels surprisingly sturdy and durable.

With less padding than some of the higher-end laptop backpacks, this isn’t the best EDC laptop backpack. But it does have plenty of organizational pockets and a padded sleeve that safely fits my 13″ laptop.

This is also a good choice if you’re looking for the best EDC backpack for students because it’s durable but not so expensive that you’ll be upset when they want a new style next year.

#12 Bellroy Classic Backpack 2nd Edition

Best Minimalist EDC Backpack

Star rating: 4.6/5
Volume: 20 liters
Weight: 1.65 pounds
Best for: People who like to keep their style uncomplicated.

The Bellroy Classic Backpack is a high-end everyday carry backpack with a mid-range price tag. 

The minimalist design is for anyone who appreciates a well-made EDC pack.

The main compartment has a laptop pocket and a second sleeve for keeping documents organized. There are two understated hidden external pockets for easy access to small belongings. 

The bag hugs the contours of your back and features padded shoulder straps for a comfortable fit.

But just because the design is minimalist doesn’t mean there’s no way to add some personal flair to your purchase. This EDC pack comes in seven colors.

#14 Tortuga Outbreaker Laptop Backpack

Best EDC Backpack for Travel

Star rating: 4.8/5
Volume: 27 liters
Weight: 3.2 pounds
Best for: Transitioning between an EDC pack and carry-on luggage.

Most backpacks are top-loading, but the Tortuga Outbreak Laptop Backpack opens like a suitcase. Once zipped, it looks and carries like a regular backpack. 

Unlike its ancestor, the Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack, you’ll have easy access during airport security.

Weather-resistant lockable zippers and a TSA-compliant laptop sleeve that accommodates a 16″ MacBook make it not only one of the best everyday carry backpacks, but also a versatile pack for traveling.

The luggage strap to carry it like a duffle bag is an outstanding carry solution when you need to switch things up.

All of this and it’s small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you on an airplane, what more can you ask from one of the best everyday carry backpacks?

#15 Bang Business Smart Backpack

Best EDC Backpack for Work and Commuting

Star rating: 4.7/5
Volume: 23 liters
Weight: 2.98 pounds
Best for: Busy professionals who like special features but not high prices.

There’s no need to spend an arm and a leg if you’re looking for the best EDC backpack to take to work. 

The BANGE Anti Theft Business Laptop Backpack is a good dupe for high-end backpacks at a super affordable price.

With an internal laptop sleeve for a 15.6″ device, it’s a great laptop backpack for anyone — not just MacBook users.

Plus, there’s a USB port for types A and C. Listen to music or charge your phone while riding public transportation and keep your hands free.

Another great feature is its anti-theft lock. When I wear my everyday backpack on the subway, I worry that a stealthy pickpocket might quietly unzip my bag. But that won’t happen with this BANG backpack.

If you have a larger budget and want to try the best EDC sling backpack, the Mini Metro Messenger Bag is designed for commuters.

#16 Wandrd PRVKE Photography Travel Backpack

Best EDC Camera Backpack

Star rating: 4.8/5
Volume: 21 liters
Weight: 2.86 pounds
Best for: Professional photographers and photography enthusiasts.

If you’re like me, your camera lives in your everyday backpack while your sling photography bag gathers dust in the closet. 

Cameras are expensive, bulky, and breakable, so the best EDC pack for a photo enthusiast is the Wandrd Photography Travel Backpack.

A friend of mine uses the Wandrd as his EDC camera bag and let me try it.

The outside is slick water-resistant material in case you get caught in the rain. It has a roll top and zippered front opening so it’s easy to organize everything.

Inside the main compartment, there are padded compartments to cradle expensive photography equipment and special features like a 17″ padded laptop sleeve.

I found the hip belt and removable sternum strap especially helpful since camera gear is heavy.

#17 Herschel Settlement Backpack

Most Comfortable EDC Backpack for Smaller-Framed People

Volume: 17 liters
Weight: 0.94 pounds
Star rating: 4.8/5
Best for: People with more petite frames prone to back pain.

I just got home from a month-long trip around Europe. Anyone who wasn’t wearing the Fjallraven was wearing a Herschel Settlement Backpack.

And I understand why. The Herschel Settlement Backpack is small but fits a laptop and the adjustable straps make it comfortable for both women and shorter men. It’s durable and yet weighs just under a pound.

Smaller than your average 21L backpack but bigger than purse backpacks, this comfortable pack is the best everyday carry bag for smaller-framed people who are tired of ill-fitting backpacks.

#18 NOMATIC Navigator Premium Backpack

Best EDC Tech Backpack

Volume: 15 liters
Weight: 2.7 pounds
Star rating: 4.5/6
Best for: Lovers of gadgets and tech gear.

For a catch-all tech backpack, check out the Nomatic Navigator Premium Backpack, one of the best EDC backpacks for carrying cameras, laptops, etc.

This advanced pack features a fleece-lined laptop sleeve, a hidden water bottle pocket, a breathable back panel, tamper-resistant zippers, and much more. 

It has a compact, slim design but can expand up to six liters. Plus, it also has an RFID-blocking pocket to protect you from identity theft.

And if that’s not enough, the whole backpack is water-resistant.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best EDC Backpack

What to Look for in EDC Backpacks

Weight and capacity

The best way to tell the size of a backpack is to look at the volume. 

Aim for a high-volume, lightweight EDC pack weighing under 3 pounds when empty.

Organizational pockets

EDC backpacks carry a hodge-podge of valuables, extra clothing, notebooks, snacks, and emergency supplies. Organizational pockets will help make things easy to find.

Style

If you’re wearing a backpack every day, make sure it blends with your style. Packs become part of your outfit, so the form is avital as well as the functionality.

Special features

Special features, such as laptop sleeves, exterior compression straps, or waterproofing, can help simplify your life and help determine the right EDC backpack for you.

Types of EDC Backpacks

Classic EDC Backpacks

A classic EDC backpack is just a sturdy backpack with straps. 

It might have some special features, such as a laptop sleeve, organizational pockets, a hip belt, or compression straps. But in general, this is the type of classic backpack you would have had in school. 

Convertible Backpacks

A convertible backpack is more than just a backpack. It might have external luggage straps or convert into a tote or shoulder bag. 

Moreover, a convertible backpack may also have a front-loading zippered opening to pack it like a suitcase. 

It is also an excellent option for everyday carry because versatility is key, and you can convert it depending on your needs.

Tech Backpacks

Tech backpacks are dependable everyday carry backpacks that feature designs specifically for carrying tech gear. This might be cameras, audio equipment, and more. 

This type of backpack might have extra padding and compartments to cradle delicate gear.

FAQs About EDC Backpacks

What exactly is an EDC backpack? What does EDC stand for?

EDC stands for “everyday carry,” meaning a pack you use daily and not just for travel and backpacking. We all have different needs and styles, so the best everyday carry pack for you might be different from your bestie.

How do I choose an EDC backpack? What makes a good EDC backpack?

The best everyday carry backpacks are not too big and bulky but can fit plenty of items. 

They’ll have padded straps and an ergonomic design for comfort. And a sleek design doesn’t hurt!

What’s the best size for an EDC backpack?

An EDC backpack shouldn’t be more than 35 Liters. Generally, 20-30 liters is a good size for daily use.

How much should I expect to spend on a quality EDC backpack?

High-quality backpacks, such as the Tortuga or the Aer Day Pack, average between $200 and $300. 

Some of the best EDC backpacks on Amazon are a fraction of that. But be mindful that budget backpacks generally won’t be as durable as high-end ones.

BANGE offers the best EDC backpacks under $100 for looking good without blowing your grocery budget.

What do you put in an everyday carry backpack?

In my EDC backpack, I usually have my laptop, my keys and wallet, some chapstick, pens, a sketchbook, my lucky rock, and a layer of crumpled receipts I’ve been meaning to throw away. 

And most importantly, I also use it to carry anything I purchase while out and about.

Conclusion: Our Pick for the Best EDC Backpack

My choice for the best everyday backpack is the Troubadour Apex Explorer Backpack. 

It features a sleek and fashionable design that prioritizes functionality.

It’s the best EDC day backpack because there are tons of storage pockets and it carries a 16″ laptop. It’s comfortable, waterproof, and has a trolley sleeve for suitcase handles.

Plus, Troubadour is a certified B-Corp that uses 95% recycled materials and offers a five-year guarantee.

The Troubadour is a pricey bag, but you can feel good about where your money is going.

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