Best Canvas Backpacks for Men in 2022 (Buying Guide)

The best canvas backpack for the modern day is one that is functional, durable, spacious, and stylish at the same time. It might be difficult to find one that will include all of these while being affordable at the same time. Yet, you may not find all of these factors to be of equal importance. It might be a daunting task to shift through all of the choices available in the market to find the best canvas backpacks for men offering great value for money. This guide here will help you out with that.

We have also written a detailed guide about the best leather backpacks for men.

The Best Canvas Backpacks for Men in 2022

1.   Gootium 21101 Specially High Density Thick Canvas Backpack

The Gootium 21101 canvas backpack offers a terrific combination of practical features and an iconic design. It feels quite sturdy and can lend a stylish edge to your lifestyle. This canvas pack is comfortable to carry and has lots of storage space for your overnight essentials. It includes 23 and 30 liters of space (for two sizes) along with organizational pockets that make this canvas backpack well suited for your needs.

The backpack is made of high-density full cotton canvas and is eligible for garment washing. You get to select between two sizes – Large (34 cm x 20 cm x 45 cm) and Small (30.5 cm x 20 cm x 38 cm). The larger size weighs 2.1lbs while the smaller one weighs 1.85lbs. The bag is available in several colors: army green, black, khaki, camouflage and coffee.

Let us take a closer look at the structure of this canvas backpack. On the flap cover, you can find the Gootium branding. There is a main compartment to store all your commuting supplies. It includes an interior zippered pocket for carrying your valuables, a front stash pocket for additional storage, and two side pockets for holding smaller items. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable for more comfort. The design features delicate genuine leather trim with quality hardware closure for maximum security, which is only found in the best cotton canvas backpack.

Pros:

• Multiple pockets that snap to close
• Drawstring closure
• Soft material that is 100 percent cotton
• Garment washed canvas
• Eco-friendly
• Ample storage space
• Cotton Canvas

Cons:

• No laptop compartment
• Non-functional straps on the top cover

2.   Jiao Miao Canvas Rucksack Backpack

The Jiao Miao canvas pack boasts a vintage unisex design that looks great on both men and women. Its dimensions are 11L, 4.5W, and 12.5H (inches).  The backpack can easily fit a compact 13-inch laptop. It comes with adjustable shoulder straps that can be set between 29.5 to 41inch. The bag weighs around 0.8kg.

The backpack offers several multifunctional pockets and compartments. It has one zipper pocket on the front flap, one zipper and an open pocket under the flap, and two side pockets. Inside the main section, you can find one inner zipper pocket, one laptop pocket, and two small inner pockets. You can use this section for things like your laptop, your phone, wallets, magazines, books, tickets, snacks, and so on.

The buckles on the top flap provide additional security. They are easy to operate and stay firmly bolted. The adjustable padded shoulder straps offer good customization and comfort based on your preferences. The backpack is made of high-quality washed canvas with a PU leather decoration.

The material is not waterproof but it is water repellant. You can easily bring it to your outdoor adventures like running, camping, and cycling. You can convert the backpack into a one-shoulder pack or a cross body shopping bag. Overall, this is one of the best canvas packs on the market.

Pros:

• Good quality leather buckle closures
• A compact design that is great for essentials.
• Buckled straps use magnets for added convenience.
• Lots of zippered pockets.

Cons:

• No pass-through for electrical cables.
• Not waterproof.

3.   MUZEE Lightweight Canvas Backpack for Students

Featuring a zipper closure, the MUZEE Canvas Backpack is made of carefully selected high-density canvas material that is scratch-resistant and abrasion-resistant. It includes a logo made out of genuine leather, SBS zippers, and retro brass fittings. These give the school backpack a charming look and a long-lasting performance.

The backpack’s dimensions are: 12.6” L x 6.3” W x 16.5” H. It includes a 15” shoulder drop. It has a dedicated laptop compartment that can store laptops that are less than 15.6 inches in size.

An external USB charging port has been provided that can be used for your phones and ebook readers. You can charge your devices without opening any zipper on your backpack.

An anti-theft zipper mechanism has been provided that protects your backpack’s main compartment. Another anti-theft pocket has been included on the back panel, which can be used to store your valuable documents and items securely.

The backpack is perfect for daily usage and for going on short trips and travels. It has a spacious capacity that can hold a variety of big and small items. The main section is ideal for storing notebooks, clothes, folders, a laptop, while the front pocket can be used for wallets, keys, and phones. The additional anti-theft system makes your traveling experience a lot safer.

Pros:

• High-density canvas material
• Anti-theft security pocket
• USB charging port
• Dedicated laptop compartment

Cons:

• No back cushion
• Small bottle compartment

4.   VASCHY Vintage Waxed Canvas Anti-theft Backpack for Men

This waxed canvas backpack from VASCHY is made of top quality genuine leather that makes it highly durable and water-resistant. The 18 oz waxed canvas material boasts a vintage design and has a premium style to it. Along with zipper closure, it includes two handles on top for hand toting and adjustable backpack straps that make its handling comfortable and easy. Two pockets for storing water bottles are also available on both sides of the backpack.

The dimensions of this backpack are 12.2×6.3×17.3in. It weighs around 1.05kg. The main compartment has ample space for storing your necessities. It also has a laptop compartment that can easily fit a 15.6-inch laptop. It includes one mesh pocket and a few other small pockets. An outer front pocket offers a magnetic buckle for easy accessibility along with a leather key clip. A zipper secured back pocket has also been provided.

The backpack features an anti-theft design to keep your important documents and items securely stored and hidden. A reinforced and adjustable strap lends additional stability to the backpack. For theft further protection, the top handles are installed with magnetic buckles. The backpack has a port for you to use your earphones and listen to music on the go.

The backpack is well-suited for regular use, particularly for school and college students. You can use it to carry your notebooks, textbooks, and laptop. The smaller pockets are great for storing stationery items, calculators, cellphones, and wallets. The backpack is also ideal for a tourist. You can carry it for your hikes and camping trips. You can choose between two colors – grey and navy.

Pros:

• Made with waxed canvas and durable leather
• Laptop storage and pocket compartments
• Earphone port

Cons:

• Zipper sticks on corners
• Not weatherproof

5.   GEARONIC TM 21L Vintage Canvas Leather Backpack for Men

The GEARONIC TM 21L Vintage Canvas Leather Backpack is a large duffel bag backpack with a length of 12inch, width 3inch, and height of 20inch. It has a storage space large enough to fit your essential daily items such as laptops, books, tablets, camera equipment, clothes, and shaving kit.

This multipurpose canvas backpack is suitable for all kinds of indoor and outdoor activities. Take it to your office, school, or college for your books, laptop, and documents. Carry your lunch, clothes, camera, or other necessary items while you go camping or hiking. Its compact size makes it ideal for people of all ages.

This vintage canvas backpack includes four external zippered closure pockets – two on the side, one on the back, and the other on the front. They provide you with secure storage space for your keys, tools, phones, or other important accessories that you might need easy access to. The main compartment utilizes a drawstring closure and can be used to hold larger items such as books, clothes, or cameras. Furthermore, the bag also has a total of 6 interior pockets for storing smaller valuable items safely.

The material used for this Gearonic backpack consists of a premium quality high-density durable canvas fabric and PU leather. It includes a button closure flap that is a classic canvas backpack design. Its hardware has a vintage brass accent to it. The shoulder straps of the bag are customizable to provide a comfortable fit.

Pros:

• Vintage, trendy, and high-quality, durable materials
• Multiple compartments and pockets
• Reinforced leather corners
• Made with canvas and cow leather

Cons:

• No holder for drink bottles
• Laptop compartments only hold a 13” laptop.

6.   AUGUR High Capacity Canvas Vintage Backpack

The AUGUR High Capacity Canvas Vintage Backpack has a spacious storage space and a trendy design. The size of this rucksack is around 18.1 by 12.6 by 7.8 inches. It is ideal for storing items that you regularly use, such as notebooks, files, laptops, tablets, shaving equipment, and clothes.

This backpack has been produced using the best premium quality canvas fabric and PU leather, which offers a durable finish. It utilizes a classic button closure flap over design and vintage brass hardware accents. The shoulder straps are adjustable and can be optimized for your comfort. This backpack is available in multiple colors: army green, coffee, grey, and khaki.

There are two side pockets on this backpack for storing small items. The single front pocket can be used for quick access essentials. The larger compartment of the backpack includes two small compartments for better organization. A shockproof laptop compartment is also present to accommodate 13-15inch laptops. The main compartment has a drawstring closure and buckled by efficient magnetic latches. An anti-theft pocket has been included at the back for storing valuables like cash and wallets. You can use this rucksack as your go to carrybag for everything from camping, hiking, shopping, school, and other outdoor events.

Pros:

• Plenty of pockets on the side, back, and front.
• Drawstring closure and magnetic buckles. Adjustable shoulder straps.

Cons:

• Not ideal for long term use
• Poor lining construction

7.   WUDON Leather Backpack for Men, Waxed Canvas

Made using genuine leather, this WUDON Leather canvas pack has a polyester lining that provides the backpack with support and durability. This backpack is well-suited for adventurers and can withstand loads of regular activity. The strong and waterproof canvas protects your precious items, thereby making the backpack a great option for carrying stuff like cameras and tablets. The fabric’s shading is attractive enough for this bag to be used as a purse, for taking it to work or for traveling

With dimensions 13.5” (L) x 6.1” (W) x 18.5” (H), you get a large storage space that will serve your every need. You can carry laptops for sizes up to 17”. It will remain protected and safe due to the padded sleeve on the main compartment. It also has open wall pockets that are locked in under a genuine leather flap and a drawstring closure. Magnetic buckle leather straps provide an additional layer of stability to the backpack.

The backpack, besides the main compartment, includes three additional pouches for storing your knick-knacks. A hidden zipper back pocket can be used for storing important items such as wallets and phones. The pouches can also be used to store water bottles.

Built with superior craftsmanship, all the backpack elements remain securely put together even under strenuous usage. The backpack boasts a solid construction with tensile stitching. It uses zine-alloy rivets and hardware that is rust-resistant, thereby making the bag an ideal roadside companion. It definitely deserved a spot on our list of top canvas packs.

Pros:

• Genuine leather and wax canvas
• Zine-alloy rivets and buckles
• Padded main pocket

Cons:

• No cable or USB support

8.   Modoker Canvas Laptop Backpack – Vintage Leather

The Modoker Canvas camera backpack boasts a huge storage capacity with its dimensions of 16.1” H x 12.2” L x 6.3” W. It has a special padded laptop compartment in which you can store laptops with sizes up to 17-inch. Overall, the bag consists of 7 compartments – one main compartment featuring a padded laptop sleeve, one slid pocket for an iPad or Kindle, one pocket on the front, two pockets on the side.

The backpack is made using top quality durable canvas and vegan leather trim. All the hardware is produced using solid brass. By implementing good stitching techniques, the bag reduces wear and tear and promotes better handling. Magnetic clips have been provided on the flap for easy opening and closing functions and make the flap accessible and secure.

Using this canvas backpack is quite comfortable. The adjustable shoulder straps help you to customize the bag based on your needs. They have thick and ventilated padding to ease the stress on your shoulders. A glasses hook has been provided on the right shoulder strap, while a card pocket has been included on the left strap. An external USB charging port and a set-in charging cable make it convenient for you to charge your devices on the go. This comes in handy for your long trips and nature walks.

The backpack combines the best parts of vintage design and modern conveniences. It is not only classy and fashionable but also includes numerous functional features. People of all ages and professions will find this backpack to be of huge benefit. It is available in blue, black, and brown colors.

Pros:

• Smart USB and cable design.
• Glasses hook and card slot on straps.
• Magnetic snaps and elastic pockets.

Cons:

• No anti-theft pockets

9.   AmazonBasics Canvas Laptop Backpack

Whether you are heading to the office, attending your classes, or going for a short trip, you can easily carry your tools of the trade with this AmazonBasics Canvas Laptop Backpack Bag. It is versatile in storage space and organization and is made of premium quality material for long-term usage.

This AmazonBasics backpack is available in four colors – Deep Red, Forest Green, Graphite, and Black. The internal compartment of the backpack includes padding for added protection. It can accommodate laptops with sizes up to 15.6 inches. The backpack has several more compartments to store large items such as binders, files, notebooks, books, and other similar products.

The pocket provided outside on top of the backpack can come in handy for storing small items such as wallets, pens, cellphones. The pocket has internal compartments that can facilitate easy storing and organizing. An external side pocket with zipper closure is also available. You can use it to securely store smaller items that you can readily access. Two side pockets have been provided for keeping water bottles.

Navigating the canvas backpack’s pockets and compartments feel effortless thanks to the fitted, durable zippers. The zippers have a textured surface that does not slip under your fingers, thereby making it easy to open and close the zippers.

Carrying this  AmazonBasics Canvas pack is incredibly comfortable due to the padded back and adjustable straps. It offers an adjustable chest strap to ensure that you get a fit that is stable and customizable. You can also use the backpack like a sling bag by carrying it from one shoulder. All in all, it is a great travel companion.

Pros:

• Easy-grip and textured zippers.
• Adjustable straps and padded back.
• External pockets and internal compartments.

Cons:

• Not much front-to-rear width.
• Some additional compartments might be helpful.

10.  KL928 Canvas Sling Backpack

This canvas sling bag can be used for a variety of purposes – you can use it as a chest bag, a small backpack, a sling bag, or a crossbody bag. Its simple and trendy design makes it a convenient and stylish accessory.

Ideal for daily usage, this backpack offers ample storage space for your books, files, gadgets, lunch, and water bottles. The items can be stored conveniently and allow easy access. The dimensions of this backpack are 10 X 7 X 16 inches. It weighs only around 1.4lb, thereby making it highly portable.

The backpack is produced using top quality materials. The canvas used is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant. The brass and zipper fittings are of good quality. One anti-theft pocket has been provided for you to store your phone, wallet, and money. It is hidden well but is easily reachable. With the addition of an external water bottle holder, this becomes one of the best canvas backpacks for men that you can buy.

One of the best things about this backpack is that it is available in a range of unique colors and shades – from camouflage black to rust red. This, coupled with a modern design, lends this backpack an elegant appearance.

Pros:

• High-density canvas material
• Breathable and scratch-resistant
• Convenient top handle design

Cons:

• The smallest pockets might become unusable at times.
• Straps may be too long for some people.

Factors to Look for while Buying the Best Canvas Backpacks for Men

Comfort

A canvas backpack might be trendy and durable, but you won’t be able to use it for long if it is not comfortable. A backpack that is not compatible with your body might hurt your back, or you may even end up injuring yourself.

How a travel backpack has been built contributes towards its comfort. The factors that influence comfort are the backside’s shape, any padding on the back or the straps, and the shoulder straps’ length and shape.

A canvas backpack can provide the best comfort by ensuring that the weight of the backpack (including the things you are carrying) is distributed equally across the whole body. The shoulder straps should be easily adjustable so that the bag sits properly on your back. Adding a padded material to the straps will help you to avoid straining your back and shoulders.

The backside of your canvas backpack should be optimally contoured based on the natural shape of your lower back. This will make sure that the bag sits comfortably on your body. A shape that makes space for the body’s natural arch will prevent back pain. By providing additional padding to the backside, your body will get some extra breathing space and support, especially if you are carrying heavy objects.

Furthermore, padded hip belts can be used to displace weight from the shoulders and back and shift it to your leg muscles. You will then be able to carry heavier loads for longer periods.

Size

Next to comfort, another crucial factor to consider would be the size of the backpack. Based on their height and physique, every person would require a different canvas backpack best suited for their bodily proportions. The backpack should also be big or small enough to accommodate the items you are planning to carry.

The best fit for your backpack would be a size that is per your torso length and has a comfortable grip on your hips. Backpacks are available in multiple sizes, large and small, which can accommodate a range of torso lengths. Most backpacks would have a size and weight that can be well supported by your hips. Nevertheless, adjustable hip belts are often provided to accommodate numerous variable hip sizes.

You can do the following to measure your torso length: stand by placing your hand on your hip bones, thumbs pointed backward, and index finger forwards.  The length of your torso can be measured from the bump at the base of your neck to the middle of your back, where your thumbs are meeting. If your backpack is too small or too big compared to your torso, balancing the weight would be a problem. This might cause you to fall over or develop back pain.

Material

A canvas backpack has an old school feel to it since it has been around for ages. Canvas was originally made from cotton. Canvas backpacks that are made with 100 percent cotton are sturdy and thick. They provide a good resistance to ripping and tearing. They, however, tend to be a bit heavier than synthetic materials like polyester.

Modern-day canvas material is produced from synthetic and natural fibers. This helps to reduce their weight and improve their waterproofing capabilities. One of the greatest advantages of using canvas is its affordability. A canvas made from leather offers benefits such as better comfort and breathability while carrying the backpack.

A canvas backpack can be easy to clean since they often include a water-resistant layer coating over the canvas. Depending on how you will use your cotton canvas backpack, you must consider the materials of the backpack you are going for.

Organization

If you carry different objects and would like to store them separately in your canvas backpack, you would prefer a canvas backpack with more organizational options. Some backpacks are bare without any compartments and pockets, while others include several slots, pockets, and compartments for holding essentials and other small items.

You will find side pockets and zippered slots to benefit if you need to access small tools and utilities quickly. For example, you can store medicines, band-aids, or other first aid in these pockets. You will be able to access them without opening the main section of the backpack. Having multiple sections leads to better distribution and categorizing of your items.

Many canvas bags have elasticized side pouches for storing water bottles or small gadgets and electronics such as your phone and headphones. Often backpacks provide a separate compartment for laptops. These are usually protected with heavy padding to keep your device safe and secure.

Movement

While looking for a canvas backpack, you might find yourself confused by words like rucksacks, daypacks, travel bags, minimalist backpacks, and so on. These are different categories of bags designed to serve the individual needs of the user. One of the factors that determine the right kind of backpack for you is the kind of movement it will be subjected to.

You should be asking questions like: will you be using the bag to travel from one location to another? Will it be used for your classes, where you will just be sitting most of the time? Are you going to use it under rough weather? Will you be wearing the backpack while engaging in physically strenuous activities? A canvas backpack is ideal for traveling, hiking, picnics, and trips. It is durable and weather-resistant to some extent.

If you want to carry several different types of items, you would need a canvas backpack with additional compartments and pockets. Carrying a laptop will warrant a special laptop compartment. If you like traveling lightweight, you can go for the backpacks with no pockets and flaps. Overall, a canvas backpack can be used for everything from touring a city with bare minimums, going to the gym with extra clothes, to carrying extensive camera gear.

Budget

Finally, your budget can be an important motivating factor for the type of backpack you are going to purchase. Several aspects determine the price of a canvas backpack – the quality of material used for manufacture, the efficiency and utility of design, and the design’s aesthetics.

Different backpacks emphasize on one or all of these aspects to make their product attractive to certain consumers. If your backpack won’t be subjected to rough usage, you can get away with a cheaper quality canvas backpack. However, if you want a backpack that will withstand through wear and tear, you will need to shell out a few extra bucks.

On the other hand, the backpack’s utility may be more important to you than its material or design. Backpacks with many extra padding, pockets, and compartments will naturally be more pricey than the simpler models.

Often some brands will advertise limited-edition backpacks that are more about statement and style. They are usually charged a bit higher. If you can afford them, they may be worth adding to your collection!

Basic level backpacks cost less than $30, followed by the mid-range backpacks ranging between $50-$100. High-end backpacks can go as high as $1500. Needless to say, there is something or the other for everyone, and in general, canvas backpacks are easily affordable.

Security

Security is of primary importance while selecting a canvas backpack. Besides helping you carry your valuables with you, your backpack must include some measures to keep them safe and secure.

Canvas bags can provide a certain degree of water resistance, especially when the material has synthetic fiber combinations. This may be beneficial if you are frequently experiencing wet climates while traveling, or spending time at locations where water splashing might be involved. Canvas bags that include nylon and polyester are better options for your trips and outdoor plans.

If you are going to use your backpack to carry electronics such as laptops and tablets, you should go for a canvas bag that has a special laptop compartment. Furthermore, the laptop section should include special padding to keep the device stable even when there is a lot of movement. Padded compartments are also good for storing cameras, lenses, ebook readers, binoculars, and other delicate equipment.

Style

A canvas backpack can be a great companion in terms of utility and usage. However, you can also use it to accentuate your fashion and style. By selecting a canvas backpack with the perfect design, you will be able to catch the attention of a few eyes every time you step out of your home.

To complement men’s aesthetics, you should ideally be looking for a canvas backpack that effectively balances sophistication and practicality. While, in this case, the design and colors will be of interest, you should also ensure that it does not lack anything in terms of function.

You can go for a vintage canvas backpack if you want to build an old school look. These bags have neutral colors and include attractive brass hardware. These color tones and designs will effortlessly blend in your backpack with your clothes.

Modern designs come with many colors that will make you pop out from the crowd. You can go for bright primary colors if you want your bag to be the focus of attention.

FAQs

Is canvas good material?

Canvas is a plain-woven fabric that is mostly produced from cotton and sometimes from linen. It is well known for being heavy-duty, sturdy, and durable. Cotton canvas can be blended with synthetic fibers to become water-resistant or waterproof even. The canvas fabric is great for outdoor usage because of its resistance and durability.

Canvas is manufactured by tightly weaving yarns together in a plain weave. The warp or vertical threads are held together steadily on the loom, while the weft threads go over and under each warp. The fibers utilized for canvas are thick with medium to heavy-weight threads. Canvas can be differentiated from other fabrics through its thread weight and plain-weave techniques.

Are canvas backpacks good?

Canvas backpacks offer a wide range of affordable choices for users belonging to all ages and professions. They are not only durable but also lightweight. Some canvas backpacks include additional leather and polyester materials that can offer additional strength and support to your backpack. Canvas backpacks also offer weather-resistant capabilities that come useful under bad weather conditions.

What can I carry in my canvas backpack?

A good canvas backpack can hold a wide variety of objects, everything from essentials to luxury items. Here are some things you can carry in your backpack:

• A good pair of earphones: Listening to music these days is quite easy and convenient. During your daily commute to your college or workplace, there might be instances where you might have to kill some time waiting in traffic or on the train. A headphone can come in handy for such cases.
• A reusable water bottle: Most canvas backpacks will have pockets and pouches for storing water bottles. Bringing your water wherever you go will ensure that your body remains healthy and hydrated.
• A tablet or ebook reader: If you want to keep yourself busy with work or a book, you can bring along a screened device in your canvas backpack. Many backpacks include a padded compartment for safely storing your tablet and reading devices.
• Portable battery charger: You can take advantage of the USB charging port provided with your canvas backpack to keep a charging device handy. You won’t have to worry about your phone running out of battery while you are out on your adventures.

How do you waterproof a canvas bag?

Waterproofing a canvas bag is very easy. You will require two pots, a mixture of bee’s wax and paraffin, and a brush. After boiling some water in one pot, you have to place the other pot inside it with the wax and then allow it to melt. Use the melted wax to coat the bag with the brush. After having covered the whole bag, let the wax dry. Toss the bag into an old pillowcase and then put it in the dryer for a duration of 15 to 30 minutes. Your bag will now be water-resistant fiber.

Have the Best Adventures with the Best Canvas Backpacks for Men

When it comes to choosing the best canvas backpacks for men, you will easily find one based on your preferences. Some canvas backpacks are heavy, with rugged, durable features that can withstand harsh weather and long term usage. They come with a host of additional features such as USB support, headphone ports, anti-theft locks, laptop flaps, and much more. Canvas backpacks are also capable of offering lots of pockets, flaps, and compartments for better organization. From students to tourists to photographers, canvas backpacks can become the perfect companion to all your personal and professional traveling needs.

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