The sling backpack is actually a remnant from the Stone Age! From the moment humans were able to use tools they needed a means of carrying them from one place to another. The solution was a piece of material slung over the shoulder to support a variety of tools; keeping their hands free to deal with any issues, threats, or potential meals as they traveled.
Our Top Pick!
OutdoorMaster Sling Backpack
This is the perfect sling backpack for anyone who likes gadgets and needs to keep them close; you might be surprised at how many things you can actually get into it.
Best Overall
The OutdoorMaster Sling Backpack comes in a selection of colors, ensuring you can find the right one to match your outfit every time. Colors include black, dark blue, gray, and green. These have been deliberately designed as gender neutral to ensure this backpack will appeal to men and women. A word of warning is relevant at this point; if you purchase this backpack there is a risk your partner will borrow it and you will never see it again.
Largest Laptop Storage
Although the Under Armour Compel Sling Backpack looks compact it is actually big enough to hold a 15-inch laptop in the dedicated internal sleeve. The exterior dimensions are 19 inches tall by 13 inches wide with a depth of 6 inches. It should be noted that this sling backpack is sloped to one side, where the strap starts.
Budget-Friendly Option
The Leaper Cross Body Messenger Bag Sling Backpack looks fantastic! The main shape is the standard rectangular look of so many backpacks but the careful addition of several pockets and a selection of D-shaped clasps turn this into a stylish accessory. You’ll feel better just carrying this with you!
Of course, the sling backpacks of today are a far cry from these early, primitive models. But, the principle remains the same. In fact, if you purchase one made from genuine leather you are even using a similar material to what Stone Age man would have found appropriate. Sling backpacks are very similar to the majority of other backpacks you will see on the market.
The main difference is that they have just one strap instead of the conventional two. This can be slung across one shoulder, in the same manner, you would carry a two-strap rucksack on one shoulder. However, the idea is that the strap goes from one shoulder, across your chest, and under the arm of the other shoulder. This allows it to stay securely on your back while leaving you with your hands-free to navigate or even use modern tools.
Of course, the sling backpack can be swung around easily to end up in front of you; this can be exceptionally helpful if you need to access something while on the move or you are worried about the safety and security of your possessions. You may also wish to adopt this approach if you are in a crowded place and likely to knock something off the shelf.
It is also useful to note that some of these sling backpacks actually arrive with clips that sit on your waist to prevent the bag from moving. This can be exceptionally useful if you are in a crowded spot or using your sling backpack while running or undertaking some other form of exercise.
There is a wide range of different sing backpacks available on the market. You may find it a little overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. Fortunately, this guide is here to help you by showing you the top 10 sling backpacks currently available.
You may be interested to note that the sling backpack is often referred to as a messenger bag. However, while it serves the same basic function it is generally recognized as being a smaller example of this type of bag. There are many different uses for this type of bag which is why this article includes a guide to choosing the right sling backpack for your needs. By the time you have finished reading you should be able to decide exactly which sling backpacks are likely to serve your needs.
Our Selection of The 10 Best Sling Backpacks:
Take a good look at this top 10 sling backpacks; one of them could be yours in the near future.
1. OutdoorMaster Sling Backpack
The OutdoorMaster sling backpack comes in a selection of colors, ensuring you can find the right one to match your outfit every time. Colors include black, dark blue, gray, and green. These have been deliberately designed as gender neutral to ensure this backpack will appeal to men and women. A word of warning is relevant at this point; if you purchase this backpack there is a risk your partner will borrow it and you will never see it again.
The bag currently retails for under $30 which is impressive considering the style and quality of the bag. It has the classic teardrop shape with a variety of zips breaking up the front of the backpack. Whether you are traveling through the city, looking for a good-sized carry-on, or about to start hiking for the day; this is the backpack for you. You can even have it gift wrapped when you order in case you want to give it to a friend.
The OutdoorMaster sling backpack is lightweight, weighing just 1 lb, and comes with a 6-month satisfaction guarantee. If you are not 100% satisfied with the product you can return it for a complete refund. The bag is made out of polyester although it appears to be canvas. It has a large main pocket with the exterior dimensions of the bag being 18.9 inches tall by 12.6 inches wide and 4 inches deep.
Because the top is tapered the maximum sized laptop you can comfortably get into this sling backpack is 12 inches. But it will happily accommodate your tablet, cell phone, wallet, and a host of other accessories. On the outside of the bag, you will notice a water bottle holder and two zipped pockets, separate from the main compartment. One is medium in size, it could handle an A5 notebook or your laptop charger. The other is lower down and designed for your wallet or cell phone.
In addition, you will find an invisible pocket inside the backpack. It is extremely difficult to spot this unless you already know where it is; it could make a valuable security measure to protect your belongings or even include a tracker! The bag is soft to the touch and a particularly neat feature is the ability to reverse the strap.
It is securely fastened at the top and clipped on the bottom. This can be moved to either side allowing the bag to be comfortably used by left-handed and right-handed people. You might be surprised at how much difference this can make. The strap itself is wide and padded; to ensure the maximum amount of comfort. In addition, it is made from a breathable ribbon which helps to draw sweat away and keep you feeling great, no matter how long you need to wear this sling backpack.
This backpack is great for many things but it is not the one you need for your school run as it will not accommodate more than a few books and certainly not an A4 binder. In fact, due to the tapered style, this bag can’t accommodate an A5 sheet without bending the corners. This is the perfect bag for anyone who likes gadgets and needs to keep them close; you might be surprised at how many things you can actually get into it.
2. Leaper Cross Body Messenger Bag Sling Backpack
The Leaper Cross Body Messenger bag looks fantastic! The main shape is the standard rectangular look of so many backpacks but the careful addition of several pockets and a selection of D-shaped clasps turn this into a stylish accessory. You’ll feel better just carrying this with you!
This sling backpack is made from a tough canvas that is not only waterproof but also washable; ensuring your bag remains looking as good as the day you bought it. There is a selection of patches on the bag created from PU leather which adds to the strength and the look of the backpack.
Inside you will find the canvas theme continues but this is softer and offers a good level of protection for the items you are carrying. The bag looks excellent in black, but it can also be purchased in an array of other colors, including army green, coffee, navy blue, khaki, and even a dark blue.
The colors are all on the darker, more serious side, but this actually adds to the appeal of the backpack. Considering you should be able to purchase one of these for under $50 this could be the only bag you will ever need.
It is important to note that this is not the largest of sling backpacks. It measures 13.6 inches high by 10.2 inches wide with a depth of 4.4 inches; making it big enough for your 13-inch laptop or any tablet. If your laptop is bigger than this you may need to consider another bag. The main compartment zips shut across the top and halfway down each side, in traditional backpack style.
It has two zips which allow you to lock them together if necessary to prevent access. Inside this compartment, you will find a dedicated section for your laptop along with a zip pocket large enough to take your cell phone. There are two slightly smaller slip-style pockets that could also accommodate your cell phone or credit cards.
The main compartment will comfortably take several magazines as well as your electrical accessories and even some food for your trip. The exterior is loaded with a selection of pockets; you have one on each side which has Velcro style fastenings, a small zipped pocket on the top of the front side, and a larger one at the bottom of the front. The lower one is also protected by a flap.
The strap on this sling backpack is wide and comfortable; it can also be adjusted depending on whether you are left or right-handed and how you prefer to wear the backpack. In addition, the length of the strap can be changed to ensure it sits in the perfect spot n your back.
This backpack simply looks cool and is practical whether you are exercising, commuting, or even going shopping. Although not the biggest, the number of pockets does help it to feel much bigger than it is; potentially making it the best value for its size on this list. The fact that you can also carry a laptop with you should increase its appeal to a broad spectrum of people.
3. Sling Backpack Shoulder Crossbody Bag
Some sling backpacks are designed to appeal to just one sex, but this offering could be comfortably used by a man or a woman. It adopts the standard teardrop shape almost ending at a point and yet it manages to look refreshingly new.
The trick to this is in how the main compartment has been split into two pockets, creating the illusion of extra-large strap support while creating usable space in every part of this backpack. You can choose from a range of colors; black, blue, gray, green, or even green and gray. Each one is stylish and vibrant as well as soft to the touch.
Despite the feel of this bag, it is actually made from very tough canvas which has been coated to ensure it is 100% waterproof. This does create a little shine on the surface of the bag but this actually adds to its character and assures you that you can carry all your valuable pieces of equipment without the risk of them getting damaged in the rain.
The bag is 19 inches high by 12.6 inches wide and an impressive 7 inches deep. This is not a small backpack. The two main compartments have their own zips and a third, smaller zip pocket is situated at the front of the bag. In addition, you will be pleased to note a zip security pocket is fitted to the rear of this bag.
This is the perfect spot for your cell phone and money; it is virtually impossible to remove items from this pocket without you knowing while the bag is on your back. The main pockets are also home to additional storage space in the shape of drop pockets; these are big enough for ID cards, pens, and even a water bottle.
The wide padded strap is extremely comfortable and can be clipped onto the bottom of your bag on either side. This can ensure it is comfortable regardless of your preference and whether you want to wear it on your back or on your front. You can even convert this into a traditional backpack by using the two-way zipper to split the padded strap.
This is an exceptionally useful feature even when you think it is something that you will not need. It is also pleasing to see that Unigear has provided a 6-month guarantee with this backpack. They will replace it for free if any defect is found in this period; considering the bag s made from abrasion and tear-resistant material, this is a reassuring and hopefully pointless guarantee.
The strap can be adjusted to as long as 36 inches, depending on your preference. You can easily accommodate your personal belongings for a weekend trip or as a grab bag on longer trips. It should be possible to include your tablet although most laptops will not fit.
This is potentially the most versatile sling backpack on this list and should be seriously considered regardless of what you intend to use it for. With a price of between $20 and $60, it is highly likely to become your favorite bag on every trip.
4. Mygreen Canvas Cross Body Messenger Bag Shoulder Sling Backpack
If you are looking for a sling backpack that manages to perfectly balance the satchel look with a traditional messenger bag then this is the one for you. Even better you can purchase this high-quality bag for less than $30. The Mygreen Canvas sling backpack is available in a variety of colors. These include black, green, coffee, dark blue, gray, or khaki. It doesn’t matter which color you choose the bag looks smart enough to take to the office, traveling, or even on your next date!
As with most of the other bags on this list, you will see that the Mygreen is created from canvas with a little leather detailing on the buckles and the zippers. The canvas is extremely durable and washable; it is scratchproof, abrasion proof and tear resistant.
However, although the inside of the bag uses a similar canvas material it is much softer and will protect anything you place in it. The bag is 14.1 inches is tall and 10.6 wide. It has a depth of 4.3 inches which will allow it to accommodate any tablet and even a 13-inch laptop, although you will struggle to fit anything bigger into it.
There are two carrying options; a small carry handle which allows you to keep your bag close when you are unable to have it on your back. This is also a useful option when you want to make the bag seem more like a fashion accessory than a backpack. Of course, it also has a wide padded strap that can be adjusted in length and switched to fit either side of your backpack.
As well as being able to hold a small laptop there are several other useful pockets in this sling backpack. The main compartment has a double zip option which fastens at the top in traditional backpack style. Inside the compartment are a zipped pocket and 2 slip pockets which are big enough to take the latest iPhone offering from Apple.
You will also find a sleeve designed to accommodate your laptop; this is padded to help protect your laptop if you drop your bag. On the outside, there is a zipper pocket on the front flap of the bag and another under the flap. You will also find an open pocket under the flap and two side pockets.
This bag is big enough to accommodate your magazines and a range of snacks as well as your vital electronic accessories and still has room left over for a change of clothes. Whether you want to carry it on one shoulder as a satchel or across your body you will be happy with the comfort and convenience this stylish backpack offers you.
The top flap actually folds over the bag, helping to protect the contents and buckles into place. These buckles can be easily undone but are effective at holding everything in place, no matter what activities you are planning to undertake.
Whether you are hoping to go traveling, hiking, or simply looking for a bag big enough to take your college books, this is one of the best sling backpacks you can purchase.
5. Plus Oversized Sling Backpack
The Plus Oversized Sling backpack is a stunning-looking bag; it is vibrant and sturdy which will ensure you receive a range of positive comments. It should be noted that this is a gender-neutral sling backpack; you may want to keep it hidden from your partner! You can choose from four colors, black with gray piping, blue, gray, or gray with red piping. All of these are stylish and have been finished to a high standard.
The bag is 28L which makes it one of the largest options on this list and exceptionally good value. You should expect to pay between $60 and $90 although it is possible to find it on sale for less.
If you are looking for something to accommodate all your school needs or act as a laptop bag you have found the right bag. It can even be used to hold all your stuff when you are looking to go traveling or even on a business trip. Although large it is still able to be used as a carry-on which will save you from the hassle of waiting for your stowed bag.
This bag is more than just a good-looking sling backpack; it has a range of features that make it extremely practical in a number of different situations. These include a headphone hole; allowing you to keep your phone secure inside your bag while having your earphones in and enjoying your favorite tunes.
There is also a mesh pocket in the strap which is exceptionally convenient for small items you need to keep close. In addition, you will find a bottle pocket that will handle a water body as big as 3.2 inches in diameter. There is also a handle that can help you carry your bag when you need to move quickly or if your shoulders are starting to feel sore. You will also find that the main compartment has a double zip system which allows you to lock the zips together if necessary.
This bag is designed to reduce stress on your back by spreading the weight of the contents against your back; which is supported by the waist and prevents the strap from moving during normal use.
Inside you will find the main pocket which has an inner protective sleeve to hold your laptop in place. There are 3 pockets in the front of the bag, each slightly smaller than the one above it but all capable of holding a variety of different items; including your cell phone and wallet. This is in addition to the bottle pocket and mesh strap pocket.
The backpack will just about accommodate most 15 inch laptops. However, if you have a larger laptop there is a larger version of this backpack available that has the same style and attention to detail.
The bag is well put together, people who have already purchased it and have reported very little fading effect over time. The material is scratch-resistant, dirt-proof, and waterproof. The zippers are metal and the stitching is color-coded to match the bag; making it an excellent example of a high-quality sling backpack at an affordable price.
6. Under Armour Compel Sling Backpack
This is a compact but extremely useful sling backpack that looks like it would be at home in the military or even used by a spy on a secret mission. In short, it is a cool-looking bag! It comes in just black, black, and Arden green or steel and graphite; all variants look stylish and capable of handling the most rugged terrains.
This bag is made from 100% polyester and has a special DWR finish which will prevent water from getting into the bag but still allow the material to breathe. It is listed as water-resistant although it is designed to be waterproof this will depend upon the level of rain your experience. As with most of the sling backpacks, you will find, the strap is well padded and adjusts to fit your needs; depending on your size and preferred carrying style.
Although this bag looks compact it is actually big enough to hold a 15-inch laptop in the dedicated internal sleeve. The exterior dimensions are 19 inches tall by 13 inches wide with a depth of 6 inches. It should be noted that this sling backpack is sloped to one side, where the strap starts.
This makes the internal measurements approximately 15 inches tall on the strap side and 14 inches on the other side. The internal width is 10 inches at the top, stretching to 13 inches at the bottom. It is worth knowing these measurements before you purchase to ensure your laptop will fit securely into place.
There are three outer pockets plus the main compartment which zips across the top on a standard double zipper system. Two of the other zipped pockets are situated on the front of the bag and both are spacious enough to handle your wallet, cell phone, and even a notepad. The third of the pockets is to the side of the bag and is also zipped, the perfect spot for small items you need to grab in a hurry.
Finally, you will notice a mesh pocket on the other side of the bag; this is designed to hold your water bottle. It is worth noting that although this bag is exceptionally practical and versatile it is not possible to change the orientation of the strap; it is designed to sit on your right shoulder and go under your left arm or you can use it as a traditional backpack with just the one strap in use.
It is the perfect size bag to carry-on to a plane and holds enough items for a weekend or even a week away; depending on how light you like to travel. Alternatively, it is big enough to hold an A4 binder and a selection of textbooks for the daily run to school. The choice is yours but you’re unlikely to regret buying this particular model.
You can purchase this sling backpack for between $50 and $70, it arrives flat and can be easily rolled to help with storing it when you are not using it. However, it is likely that once you start using it you will not want to leave it behind. The sturdy material and effortless style, with a hint of menace, makes this an exceptionally appealing backpack. The fact that it weighs just over one pound simply makes it more desirable as the weight you are carrying is the items you need to take with you.
7. Pacsafe Metrosafe LS150 Anti-Theft Sling Backpack
The Pacsafe Metrosafe sling backpack looks like a traditional backpack. This is excellent news if you are after a backpack that looks like one but only has one strap. Once you examine this product more closely you will realize it has a great deal of potential and the price tag of between $70 and $90 is both realistic and justifiable.
The sturdy construction is 100% nylon and the interior is designed from polyester. It has one large main compartment with a zipped internal pocket and a sleeve designed to hold your laptop securely. This pocket is closed with a double zip feature that goes most of the way around the backpack; encouraging easy access and enabling you to securely lock your items inside, if necessary.
There are also several slip pockets inside the bag which are designed to accommodate your cell phone or anything else you need to carry such as a PDA, passport, or credit cards. The exterior of the bag has a secondary zip pocket, again with the double zip feature. This encompasses two-thirds of the backpack and adds valuable extra space, perfect for carrying all the cables which accompany electronic gadgets.
The bag itself is 13 inches tall and 8 inches wide. The depth is split across both the pockets and falls just short of 7 inches. You should be able to comfortably fit any 13-inch laptop or any tablet. It is the perfect bag for the daily commute or to take with you traveling.
The space is big enough for all the essentials without promoting overpacking; this will allow you to really experience the places you will be visiting. The padded shoulder strap can be used on just one shoulder or placed on your left shoulder and under your right arm. It can be adjusted to provide a 26-inch drop which should be big enough to ensure the backpack is comfortable; no matter how tall you are.
This is the best of the sling backpacks on this list for security features. The nylon material is laced with eXomesh Slashguard. This is a fine wire mesh that runs through the bag and prevents someone from slashing it as they run past to get your belongings. This same material is embedded into the strap to ensure this cannot be cut and allow someone to run off with your bag.
In addition, there is a turn and lock hop secured to the backpack which can be clipped to your belt loops or something similar. This will prevent anyone from running off with the bag. As well as having standard double zippers it also has locking points to ensure the zips are not only locked together, they cannot be moved.
You will also be impressed by the RFID blocking pocket. This prevents anyone from scanning your cards and ID which are inside the pocket; thus protecting you from identity theft or fraud. A final feature that is useful is the ability to remove one end of the trap and lock it to a chair or similar secure object. This will ensure your bag cannot be taken and the other features will ensure your contents are safe; whether you fall asleep or fancy a dip.
All these features are designed to protect you and your gear whether you are completing the daily commute or traveling across distant lands making this one of the safest and most desirable sling backpacks available at the moment.
8. Leather Sling Backpack
This sling backpack literally shimmers, the material is actually PU leather which has a natural shine and is waterproof; making this one of the most practical sling backpacks on the list. It has the classic teardrop shape and comes in either black or a dark brown.
As soon as you look at this bag you will appreciate the quality of the material and the attention which has been put into the stitching and accessories. This is a high-quality bag that would not look out of place at a black-tie do but can be had for under $50!
The outer is PU leather; the zips are made from stainless steel and operate smoothly and efficiently. The interior has the same soft and luxurious feel which keeps your items safe and feels warm to the touch. However, it doesn’t just look good. It is exceptionally practical with a multitude of different pockets and a variety of special features which might make it the perfect bag for your collection.
The main compartment has a double zipper mechanism and you will find a drop pocket inside which is designed to hold a tablet as large as 15 inches or any number of tablets. There is also a secondary drop pocket and a metal clamp that will allow you to secure valuable to the inside of your bag. The secondary main compartment is nearly as big as the first and has the same interior pockets with the exception of the metal clamp.
On the outside of the bag, you will find an additional zip pocket halfway down the front which is ideal for carrying the small essential items that so easily get lost inside a bag. There is also a mesh pocket at the side which can accommodate a water bottle or even be used for your umbrella.
There is a secure pocket fitted to the rear of this sling backpack; this cannot be accessed by anyone while you are carrying the bag on your back. You will also appreciate the small mesh pocket built into the strap. This may only accommodate small items but it can be exceptionally useful. This backpack has enough pockets to keep you guessing where you put your personal items but not enough that you simply lose everything.
The dimensions of the bag reflect the fact that this is a good sized backpack but not a large one. It measures 14.7 inches tall by 11 inches wide and 5.9 inches deep. It can be effectively used for college, work, or traveling providing you are careful about how you pack it. The fact that it is made from leather adds a quality feel and look to this backpack which belies the price.
The strap can be adjusted to suit, ranging from 19.5 inches to an impressive 42.5 inches. It is well padded and extremely durable as well as offering good leather protection to your valuable contents. It even has a convenient carry handle for when you feel it is more appropriate not to keep the backpack on your back.
It is worth noting that the PU leather will have a distinctive smell when you first receive it; this will quickly disappear if you use the bag. However, PU leather is known to stretch over time, this may affect the appearance and style of the bag and is something you should be aware of.
9. Waterproof Sling Backpack
This contribution to the top 10 sling backpacks is from Pritek and simply oozes style. It is an extremely versatile backpack that can be used as a sling backpack, shoulder bag, or even a chest pack. The backpack is made of high-quality 300D polyester which is extremely durable but also breathable; preventing unwanted smells from building up inside your bag.
It is waterproof and lightweight while being well enough built to withstand the toughest of challenges. In addition to the high quality, yet soft construction material, all the zips are made with top-end metal and carry the SBS Brand zipper certificate. You can choose between black, gray, and red; all options retain the classic teardrop appearance while looking distinctively stylish. You might even feel like you are ready to hit the catwalk!
This bag weighs just one pound and measures 18.5 inches high by 12.6 inches wide. The depth is a reasonable 4 inches which helps to ensure it can carry everything you need it to. However, it is important to be aware that this is not the largest backpack on this list; a 12-inch laptop should fit comfortably in but anything larger is likely to need to be carried separately.
Of course, most tablets should be no issue at all and the actual dimensions of your laptop should be verified before you decide whether it will fit or not.
The main pocket has an inner sleeve that is designed to hold and protect your laptop from accidents. There are also two slip pockets for holding your cell phone if you choose to use them. It is more likely that you will keep your cell phone and bank cards in the rear zip pocket which offers RFID protection.
It is also easy for you to access this pocket while being virtually impossible for anyone else to when you have the backpack on your back. On the outside, there are two further zip pockets which can be the perfect place to store your electronic accessories and other everyday items.
You will also find that there is a pocket built into the strap which can accommodate your cell phone and even a water bottle holder. The range of pockets makes this the perfect accessory for virtually any occasion. A key feature that is on many of the top 10 sling backpacks is the ability to reverse the strap.
This ensures you can wear the bag comfortably on either shoulder, on your back, or even on your chest. As well as being padded to ensure comfort, this strap incorporates a snap buckle which will allow you to quickly put the bag on and off without pulling it over your head.
Perhaps more impressive is the fact that this bag comes with an 18-month guarantee. Of course, this is only against manufacturing defects and not wear and tear. It is worth noting that the RFID pocket is only just big enough for your average wallet. This might be because it was designed simply to take your cards but it is worth noting to ensure you verify your wallet will fit; assuming this is important to you.
10. RS Men’s Genuine Leather Sling Backpack
The final offering on the top 10 sling backpacks list is designed as a men’s sling backpack but it could still be used by women. As with many of these male-orientated bags, the colors are kept relatively neutral; this one is available in black or brown.
The first thing you will notice when you purchase this is not the smell of high-quality genuine leather; it is the fact that this looks like a quality bag. Of course, it has a price tag to reflect this and you can expect to pay in the region of $80 to $120. This bag is the most expensive on the list but the quality put into its creation more than justifies this price tag. It should last you for years and continue to look good at the same time.
It measures 11.81 inches high by 5.91 wide with a depth of just 3.94. This is not a large backpack but it is the right one if you simply need something to carry a few essential accessories. The black leather is enhanced by white stitching while the rigidity helps the bag to retain its shape even when empty. This is one bag that you could easily commute with and still look good when you go straight to the bar in the evening.
The main compartment zips closed and this is covered by a flap that fastens at the top of the bag via a popper. Inside the main compartment, there is a sleeve that is designed to take a tablet, even the iPad will fit. The rest of the pocket can be used to store your other vital accessories, such as your cell phone, wallet, keys, PDA, and anything else you can think of.
It may not be the largest of bags but there should be enough space to accommodate all your needs. On the front is a further zipped pocket that can hold a few additional items or even be used for your wallet and cell phone as it will provide easier access when you need them. Inside the fold-down flap is a further drop in the pocket for small items. There is also a side mesh pocket for your water bottle, or perhaps a small bottle of wine.
Security is also an exceptionally important feature of this RS leather sling backpack. It has a wire mesh incorporated into the leather to make it slash-proof; this extends into the strap which can be unclipped to lock the bag around a specific object.
The double zipper system also allows you to lock the zips together to ensure security remains high. The removable strap can also be reattached in either position, depending on whether you prefer it to rest on your right shoulder or your left and whether you want it on your back or your chest.
In fact, pictures of this sling backpack do not do it justice; the leather is authentic and looks excellent. There is an aroma when you first purchase it but this will quickly fade leaving you with a premium quality bag that will add to your look when you hit the town. The fact that it is exceptionally functional is simply a bonus!
Guide To Choosing The Right Sling Backpack
Assuming you are now aware of why this style of bag is called a sling backpack then you may have decided that this is the right bag for your needs. The original idea was to develop a bag which could be carried easily and keep your belongings safe. It could be argued that the traditional backpack already fulfills these criteria but you will often end up carrying a traditional bag on one shoulder.
This does not distribute the weight evenly, can make it difficult to take it on and off, and is easier for someone to grab as they run past you. A sling backpack runs across your body, providing it has slash protection it is exceptionally hard to remove the bag from your possession without you having the opportunity to put up a fight. In many instances, the assailant will simply move on to an easier target.
Of course, the fact that these sling backpacks also look good and are exceptionally practical if you are exercising is simply a bonus in your decision process. To make sure you choose the right sling backpack for your needs you should follow this guide:
Select Your Size
It may seem obvious but you need to consider what items you are likely to be carrying on a regular basis before even looking at any sling backpacks. If you don’t you may find yourself selecting a bag that looks fantastic but is not actually suitable for your needs.
Along with knowing that you need to carry books, magazines, or a PDA you should evaluate the size of your current laptop, (assuming you are keeping it), and make sure it will fit into the sling backpack you have chosen. The issue with many of these sling backpacks is that the style makes the bag smaller at the top and this can affect its ability to handle a specific size laptop; even if the size of the bag seems appropriate. You should also not purchase one where the laptop just fits inside; this will place excess stress on the bag and wear it out prematurely.
Selecting the right size is potentially the most important step in this process.
Consider Your Budget
Of course, your available funds will make a difference to the sling backpack you choose. However, this should not be too definitive. Instead, you should consider how you can increase your budget and whether you are able to wait for your preferred backpack. It is possible to find the one you want in a sale or special offer.
If you know your funds are not likely to change then it is advisable to simply stick to your budget there are many quality backpacks available, some of the ones on this top ten list can be had for less than $30.
Learning to budget, whether for a backpack or a bigger purchase is important as it will provide you with financial stability in the future; something that is exceptionally important in many scenarios.
Think About Style
The classic sling backpack is a teardrop shape but this is not the only available option. You can see several of the different options by looking at the backpacks listed in this article. Once you have considered which have space you need you will be able to look at the different styles to assess which one goes best with your current style and the clothes you tend to wear.
Even if you do not worry about how you look it is important to consider whether the style of backpack, you prefer is really designed for ease of use or not.
What Is Your Main Use
Are you intending to go hiking every weekend or are you looking for something for the daily commute? There are hundreds of different uses for any backpack but you are likely to do a one activity more than any others. This can and should influence the type and style of backpack you choose.
For example, if you are hiking all the time then waterproofing is much more important than the bag being slash-proof or having pockets that protect your cards from being scanned. The opposite is also true, these features are far more important if you are commuting on trains regularly and need to feel your personal information is secure.
Consider the Material
Many of the backpacks on this list are made of heavy-duty canvas and look extremely stylish. However, there are some which are made from either genuine leather or faux leather. Your decision regarding the right material should be based on what goes best with your style and what is most practical for the use you have in mind.
Most leathers are extremely durable but will fade over time. They are unlikely to stretch and may only offer water resistance instead of waterproofing. Faux leather is more likely to be waterproof but it can also stretch over time and is not generally as durable as leather. Canvas, on the other hand, can be extremely tough and even dirt-proof.
There is not a right or wrong answer to this question but thinking about it will help you to narrow down your choices to the one that suits you best.
Select A Color
Many of these sling backpacks are designed with men in mind and are neutral or darker colors. However, this does not mean that they are the only option. Again, you will need to consider your needs; the more you use the backpack in a professional environment the more likely it is that you will need a black or dark brown one. If you are using it for any other reason then you should choose the one that appeals to you the most. This might prevent your partner from ‘borrowing’ your backpack.
Again, this is a question of personal preference but if you select a specific color you may need to look at specific bags to ensure you have the color you want. It can actually be quite difficult to bring all the different elements together.
Security Matters
It is generally great to have lots of pockets on your backpack; it allows you to tuck all sorts of items into the bag and have them handy when you need them. However, you should consider how safe the pockets are. At the least, they need to have double zippers which can be locked together, although some of the sling backpacks available have much more advanced features.
This type of basic security is useful even if you are going hiking and do not expect to bump into people; knowing that the backpack is locked will help you to feel confident that your belongings will not accidentally fall out.
The level of security you require will depend upon your intended use of the bag but you must consider it carefully before you choose the right backpack.
Flexibility
One of the biggest benefits of this type of backpack is the ability to easily attach it to your front or back and on either shoulder. Not all sling backpacks have changeable straps, if this is important to you and will make it easier to carry the bag then you should look at the ones with this type of strap.
Other examples of flexibility include the array of pockets and their location, the exact layout should allow you to place your items where you need them depending on where you are going and what other items are inside your backpack.
It is also worth considering whether it has a sleeve for your laptop and if this is padded. While this will mean your laptop has to go in the same pocket every time it will help to protect it in case of accidents.
Summary
Choosing a sling backpack is a surprisingly big decision; the price can range from just $20 to well over $100. But this does not mean you should choose the most expensive option. There are several important factors to consider before you select the product which best suits your needs. Follow the guide in this article to establish what you really need your backpack to do and then you can be confident that you have found the right one. This should then last you for several years, or until your fashion style changes and you need another type of bag.
In the past, it was common to think of bags as being the domain of women. This is no longer the case; they are recognized as being useful accessories. The fact is that you simply cannot fit all your everyday items into your pockets anymore!
Use this guide and select the sling backpacks which are most likely to meet your needs. Once you have narrowed the choice down you will be able to select the best one; with quick delivery, you should be showing it off to your friends in no time and perhaps triggering a new trend in your office or fitness club. As already mentioned, the initial form of the sling backpack is as old as human ingenuity; you are simply continuing and advancing this trend and doing it in style!
Our Top Pick!
OutdoorMaster Sling Backpack
This is the perfect bag for anyone who likes gadgets and needs to keep them close; you might be surprised at how many things you can actually get into it.
