Joshua Babicz
If you aren’t familiar with sling backpacks, they are a triangular-shaped bags that you wear over one shoulder and across your torso. As the name suggests, they are easy to throw over your body. When considering the purchase of a sling backpack, you want to find one with a comfortable padded shoulder strap, that will also prevent the bag from slipping from its position. While they sit on one shoulder, they should distribute the weight of the bag’s contents evenly across the body.
Bags are an essential everyday part of our lives, and nowadays most people don’t go anywhere without one. With such a wide variety of bag styles and sizes nowadays, you can have a collection to fit all occasions. After extensive testing and research, we have put together this round-up of the best sling backpacks on the market today. There’s also a buyer’s guide at the end of this article to help you make an informed purchase decision.
Best Sling Backpacks to Buy in 2022
1) Vera Bradley Women’s Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Sling Backpack
Design and Build
This crossbody bag features two easy to reach zip pockets on the front, pen slips, a phone slip and a D-ring for your keys. There is also a large hidden zip pocket on the back for your valuables. It’s made from recycled bottles, which create the 100% recycled polyester material that Vera Bradley is renowned for using. This material is sustainable and water-repellent, and is lightweight yet very durable.
Functionality
This bag is generally recommended for women and is a lightweight option. It’s perfect for school, work and outdoors use. Your belongings will keep dry during rain showers thanks to the water-repellent material.
Capacity
The bag is 19 inches high, 9 inches wide and 3 inches deep. It has a 38-inch adjustable strap which sits comfortably on your body.
Additional Features
This bag benefits from its multiple pockets and storage facilities. The material it is made from is recycled and sustainable, while also being waterproof and extremely durable.
Why is it the best of the lot?
This bag is our top-rated option due to its choice of material, which is recycled and sustainable, while also being waterproof. It’s a large bag that’s extremely comfortable to use and comes in a fashionable design.
2) Imyth Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag Travel
Design and Build
Made from durable canvas, this bag is extremely sturdy. There’s plenty of space in the bag to keep your belongings well organized, especially those smaller items that often go missing.
Functionality
This bag is very versatile and is perfect for meeting different needs. Whether you need a bag for college, travel or weekend outings, this bag can be used for all of these. It can easily be placed under the seat when flying, and it’s a secure option when worn on your front side.
Capacity
The bag’s measurements are 11.42 x 14.17 x 4.33 inches, and it can fit a 13-inch tablet inside the main compartment. It weighs only 1.54 pounds, so it is perfect for traveling and sports.
Additional Features
The bag’s material and wide range of color choices make it the perfect option for a practical yet sophisticated gift for family and friends.
3) Y&R Direct 14 Colors Lightweight Sling Backpack Sling Bag
With fourteen different colors to choose from, this lightweight sling backpack from Y&R Direct is a great value option for all ages. With four compartments, this bag is comfortable to wear, and you won’t get any pain or aches after a day of use.
Design and Build
The bag features four compartments, which includes a front zippered pocket, an open pocket, middle zippered compartment and the main zippered compartments which can hold an iPad or Kindle. The zipper closure and waterproof nylon material make it a practical bag for days out, sports and exercise.
Functionality
At only 8.8 oz in weight, this bag is extremely light to carry, making it perfect for running and cycling. The shoulder strap and back are made of a breathable mesh material that’s padded to provide all-day comfort. The strap is fully adjustable, and you can wear this bag on your front or back as desired.
Capacity
The dimensions of this sling backpack from Y&R direct are 15 x 7.5 x 4 inches. It has a 15” shoulder drop and is a good, smaller size option for days out.
Additional Features
The bag contains a D-Ring to hang your keys, so you will never worry about losing them in your bag again. The nylon material is anti-scratch, so even during days out and sports, you don’t need to worry about damaging this bag.
4) Peak Gear Sling Compact Crossbody Backpack and Day Bag
Design and Build
The bag is made from canvas snow fiber material, which is durable and lightweight. This pack will last for years of use, even if worn every day. It has a large main section, and for a small bag, it can fit a lot in it. There is a single pocket on the front of the strap that can carry small items such as keys.
Functionality
This bag can be used by both left and right-hand users and is a top-quality product. It has a slim profile and is particularly recommended for active users.
Capacity
The dimensions of this compact bag are 12.7 x 7.8 x 2 inches, and it weighs only 0.64 ounces. This is one of the smallest bag options listed here today, so it is fantastic for days out and exercise.
Additional Features
The bag includes a unique service which is a lifetime recovery progam. It’s called ReturnMe, and if your sling bag is ever lost and found it has a unique code to help reunite you. Peak Gear also offer a lifetime guarantee, so your purchase is risk-free.
5) Sling Bags Chest Shoulder Backpacks
Design and Build
Made from Nylon, this bag from Nicgid has three external compartments and multiple internal pockets. The material is water-resistant although not completely waterproof, and has smooth zippers and a durable inner lining. The large main zippered pocket is fitted with a pull, and the bag helps to keep your belongings well organized.
Functionality
The padded strap is fully adjustable so can be fitted to different sizes and heights. It won’t restrict your arm movement, and the strap clip means it can be switched between the left and right-hand sides. The buckles on the flap open and close easily, so it’s a great bag for work and traveling.
Capacity
The dimensions of this bag are 12.2 x 16.5 x 5.1 inches, and it can comfortably fit a laptop of up to 14.1 inches not including the laptop case or sleeve. It weighs approximately 1.54 lbs, so is a lightweight yet sturdy bag.
Additional Features
Nicgid offer great customer service, so if you have any issues with your purchase, they will help to resolve them.
6) OutdoorMaster Sling Bag – Crossbody Shoulder Chest Urban/Outdoor/Travel Backpack for Women & Men
Design and Build
Made from lightweight and sturdy material, this bag has room for a camera, tablet and even a small laptop up to 12” in size. It has a hidden anti-theft pocket and a water bottle holder.
Functionality
This bag is perfect for everyday use, but is also sturdy enough for hiking, camping and traveling. It has a hook and loop closure and 12” shoulder drop. The pack is perfect for left and right-handed users, as the shoulder strap direction is reversible. It can be worn as a chest, shoulder and crossbody sling bag.
Capacity
The bag is 17.7 inches in height, 11.8 inches long and 4 inches wide. It’s a good length bag, which can contain your laptop and yet still only weighs one pound.
Additional Features
This bag comes with OutdoorMaster’s six month 100% satisfaction guarantee warranty, as well as access to their friendly customer service team.
7) Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack Sling Bag Travel Hiking Chest Bag Daypack
Design and Build
Made from Nylon with a polyester lining, this bag is constructed to last from a superior material. The shoulder strap and the back of the bag are made from a breathable material, which makes the bag comfortable to wear when hiking or cycling. The front zipper bag and buckle bag allow you to store an iPhone or iPad mini and there are several other small compartments inside. The side mesh pocket is built to hold a water bottle, and is 6 inches high and can hold a 2.4-inch diameter bottle.
Functionality
This bag is designed to help you keep organized during trips and days out, and features a reversible shoulder strap. So whether you prefer to wear the bag on your left or right-hand side, you’ll be comfortable with this Waterfly crossbody shoulder bag.
Capacity
The bag’s dimensions are 7 x 3.5 x 15 inches. The should strap pouch is 3.5 x 1.5 x 7.5 inches and the shoulder strap can be adjusted up to 39.5” in length.
Additional Features
The company offers one-day assistance if you have any issues with the bag. There is a hidden earphone hole on the front of the bag, allowing you to enjoy music at any time when you are out and about.
8) Canvas Sling Bag – Small Crossbody Backpack Shoulder Casual Daypack Rucksack
Design and Build
The bag is made from a durable, water-resistant and lightweight canvas material, with top-quality zippers and brass fittings. It’s a very compact bag that has an anti-theft pocket for your phone and other small items. There is also an external water bottle holder. It’s recommended that you wash and hang the bag to dry in a cool and ventilated place before your first use.
Functionality
This is one of the most versatile bags on this list. It can be a small backpack, thanks to the zipper along the sling strap. Otherwise, it is a fantastic chest bag or crossbody bag with a stunning look. It’s perfect for daily use or to use as carry-on luggage when traveling.
Capacity
This canvas bag’s measurements are 10 x 7 x 16 inches, and it weighs just 1.4 lb. It’s very lightweight yet has a sturdy design and can fit a small laptop of up to 12.5 inches.
Additional Features
The bag is made from a canvas material which is hardwearing and durable. The unique selling point of this product is its ability to act as a backpack as well as a sling bag.
9) MiyCoo Anti-Theft Crossbody Sling Backpack Bag
Design and Build
The bag is made from Oxford cloth and light fabric that will also keep water out of the bag to protect your personal belongings. This sling crossbody bag has a large space in the main pocket, and so can carry all of the belongings you will need for business or leisure.
Functionality
The great thing about this bag is its versatility. It can be used as a shoulder bag, crossbody bag, messenger bag and business bag. With its plain Black design, it can be used for business, school and outdoor adventures.
Capacity
The dimensions of this bag from MiyCoo are 22 x 32 x 10 cm or 8.66 x 12.6 x 4 inches. It’s a good size bag to fit all of your belongings in, without being too bulky to carry around all day. The bag ways only 0.8 lbs, so is lightweight to carry around all day without putting excess pressure on your shoulders and back.
Additional Features
This bag also features a USB to recharge your phone or iPad on the go. It’s an anti-theft backpack, with a hidden zipper design on the back. MiyCoo offer a lifetime warranty service policy promise, and you can receive a refund within 45 days of purchase.
10) Magictodoor Sling Bag for Men Women Travel Packs
Design and Build
Made from Oxford material with a polyester lining, this bag uses zipper closures to keep your belongings secure. It has a high storage capacity and helps you to keep your personal belongings well organized. It has six different multi-functional compartments, including two at the front for small items, one main compartment, one side mesh pocket for your water bottle and a hidden anti-theft RFID blocking pocket to keep your credit cards safe. There is also a small zip pocket attached to the shoulder strap, which can fit even the largest iPhone models.
Functionality
With multiple different features and uses, this bag is perfect for women and men. It’s great for everyday use, as well as for active adventures and traveling. The side pocket is equipped with two light reflective strips, so you will be visible to oncoming traffic. The shoulder strap is reversible, so can be used by left and right-handed individuals.
Capacity
Magictodoor’s bag is spacious and versatile, and its dimensions are 11.8 x 5.1 x 18.7 inches. This is big enough to comfortably carry an iPad or books for studying.
Additional Features
The anti-theft RFID blocking pocket is a unique feature to this bag and keeps your bank cards secure from fraud. The bag also contains a USB charging port, so you can run a portable charger cord to your phone if it’s running low.
11) OSOCE Lightweight Sling Backpack
Design and Build
The bag features three compartments and six pockets. There is a tablet pocket that can fit a device up to 10.5 inches in size. This pocket is fitted with thickened elastic cellular material to keep your belongings safe. The many small pockets will help you to keep your personal belongings and smaller items safe at any time. OSOCE’s bag is made from 230D encrypted polyester, which is light and waterproof and won’t fade over time.
Functionality
It’s made to last and is suitable for regular and long term use. The material and lining won’t get wrinkles over time, and the zipper puller is made from zinc alloy.
Capacity
The bags dimension are 18.5 x 11 x 1.5 inches, and it weighs only 0.57 lb. This lightweight bag has large compartments to hold tablets and other personal belongings. The front pocket can hold a 7-inch mobile phone and the four small pockets in the main compartment help to keep your valuables safe.
Additional Features
This bag has a D-shaped buckle on both sides at the bottom, and the strap can be adjusted for both left and right-handers. The company offer a free 1-year replacement in case you do experience any quality issues, and they also have a twenty-four-hour online customer service.
12) Anti Theft Sling Bag Shoulder Crossbody Backpack
Design and Build
The bag is made from 100% polyester and contains a nylon lining and zipper closure. The main feature of this bag that makes it stand out from its competitors is the anti-theft lock. It has durable dual-access zippers with a combination lock design that increases the safety of your personal belongings. You’ll also appreciate the hidden anti-theft pocket on the back of the bag, to protect your most valuable belongings from thieves.
Functionality
This sling bag is made from high density and water-resistant oxford fabric. It’s also tear-resistant, so it’s perfect for everyday use. The metal zippers open and close smoothly, ensuring security for everything that is inside it. The breathable sponge mesh on the straps and back help to relieve any pressure on your body when carrying the bag for a long time.
Capacity
The bag’s dimensions are 6.7 x 3.2 x 13.4 inches. The strap is adjustable to fit all size of wearers and can be a minimum of 31.5” and maximum of 43.3”.
Additional Features
The bag contains a built-in USB charger outside and built-in charging cable inside, so you can charge your phone while you are on the go.
13) Vanlison Crossbody Sling Bag Backpack for Men & Women
Design and Build
Made from Nylon, this bag features multiple compartments. There is one main zippered compartment, two zipped front pockets, one back pocket and a side water bottle pocket. Inside the main compartment, you will find one more zipped pocket as well as an open layer to fit a tablet or book. All these pockets will help to keep your belongings organized during your use.
Functionality
This bag is extremely durable and is also waterproof. The bag is made from rip and water-resistant nylon, which makes for a strong and long-lasting bag. The shoulder strap is adjustable, and therefore the bag can be fitted to any size.
Capacity
This bag from Vanlison is 8.3 inches wide, 3.8 inches deep and 15.5 inches high. It can fit a 10-inch tablet and is only 0.8 lb in weight.
Additional Features
The internal zipped pockets are perfect for keeping your valuables safe, and can easily hide passports, credit cards and ID cards.
14) VGOAL Small Sling Backpack Anti-Theft Messenger Bag with USB Charging Port
Design and Build
The bag features a great ergonomic design. This bag is compact and strong, and there is plenty of room to carry a small laptop, tablet and phone. It’s made from polyester and is water-resistant, protecting your valuables from rain.
Functionality
Perfect for any occasion, this bag has lock buckles on both sides, which allow you to adjust the shoulder strap position to fit your needs. The soft padded back cushion makes the bag feel light and comfortable. The zipper of the main compartment can be hidden away with the cover, and there is a pocket at the shoulder strap to protect your valuables.
Capacity
The bag’s dimensions are 12.2 x 7.5 x 3.1 inches. It weighs only 1.06 pounds, which is impressive considering the features and sturdy design of the bag.
Additional Features
The bag contains a built-in USB port, so you can add a power bank and charge your cell phone at any time.
15) HUA ANGEL Crossbody Sling Bag for Men & Women
Design and Build
The bag is made from dense polyester, which is lightweight and tear-resistant. It’s environmentally friendly and can hold a lot of your belongings. It has four pockets, and the main pocket can hold an iPad, clothes, a camera or books. There is also a front pocket, a back pocket for valuables and a side pocket for an umbrella or water bottle.
Functionality
This is a practical crossbody bag for business, school and personal use. It’s suitable for adults and teenagers, and the shoulder strap is made of breathable and sweat-resistant fabric to relieve shoulder pressure. It will make you feel at ease even in hot weather.
Capacity
The bag is 11.4 x 5.1 x 18.5 inches in size, with an adjustable shoulder strap that can extend up to 38.2 inches.
Additional Features
This bag is designed for both lefties and righties, and you can change the strap direction to suit your preference.
Types of Sling Backpacks and Purses
As with any type of bag, there are many different designs of sling backpacks to choose from. They vary depending on the activity they are designed for, such as more active backpacks. There are models available for travel, weekends away, hydration, cameras and work. The choices really are endless!
The traditional or heritage style bags were originally used by natives, and this design is still very popular today. These are traditionally made from leather or a similar material, with a more traditional design and function. You’ll find that they have drawstrings to close the large compartment and they often include many pockets in their designs.
If you are looking for a bag for work, sling backpacks are available especially for this purpose. As with any backpack, these are created with professionals in mind and will include features such as a laptop sleeve and multiple pockets.
All-rounder backpacks are a versatile option for those who want to use a sling backpack on multiple different occasions, and usually have pockets and space to carry a variety of equipment and personal belongings. If you enjoy active weekends, weekend backpacks are another multipurpose options, some of which are still smart enough for the office.
If you are a keen photographer, consider a bag with dividers to store your camera, and for passionate outdoor adventurers, hydration backpacks will ensure you never go thirsty, as they hold up to three liters of water.
The next consideration for bags is the volume and size that you need. The sizing options are generally 0-10 liters, 11-25 liters, 26-40 liters, and finally 40 liters plus. Naturally, their recommended use depends on the size. The smaller options are good for day hikes or running, and 11-25 liters is a good size for work and sports that involve some smaller pieces of equipment or accessories. The larger two sizes are great for longer trips, and a bag over 40 liters would suffice for a backpacking adventure. Most sling backpacks are of a smaller size, due to their design and function, and to allow a healthy distribution of weight over your body.
The Design Goals of a Sling Backpack and Purse
Sling backpacks are perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight bag, or someone who likes to travel minimally. A good bag should fit well to your body, allowing you to still move freely. They generally come with an adjustable strap, which allows you to fit the strap perfectly to your body. A good sling backpack will have a padded back panel, which will stop you from being injured or poked by anything in your bag. We also recommend comparing the storage and pockets on each bag, so you can keep your belongings well organized, especially if you are purchasing a large model.
Sling bags were designed to provide users with quick and easy access to their belongings. With these bags, gone are the days of fumbling around trying to find something at the bottom of your bag. With side openings and different compartments, it should be easy to keep your personal belongings well organized on days out and trips in the future with one of these bags.
The best way to carry a sling backpack is with the strap pulled across your chest. This keeps the strap nearer to the base of your neck and will stop it from slipping off your shoulders. It shouldn’t pull down on your shoulders, or cause tension to your back and shoulders. A good sling backpack will have a multipurpose strap, and some of these bags can double up as a regular backpack. This will reduce the strain on one side of your body, as the bag can then distribute the weight of the contents over both of your shoulders.
Features of Sling Backpacks
When you are purchasing any type of bag, there are certain features to compare, and sling backpacks are no exception to this. Here are some of the top features to pay attention to when comparing models:
Size – As discussed earlier, bags come in a wide variety of sizes. Sling backpacks generally have a capacity of between 0 and 10 liters. This capacity allows the bag to sit comfortably on your body and not put an excessive amount of weight and pressure on your shoulders and back.
Design – When comparing designs of these types of bags, you’ll want to first establish the purpose and occasions you will use this bag. There are options for camera users and travelers, as well as the more traditional bag design. Some bags even include great upgrades such as headphone jacks and storage for specific electronics.
Material – As with all bag choices, you can choose a bag in a material to suit your needs and the aesthetic you are aiming for. Canvas and leather are popular sturdy bag materials, but for a lighter option consider cotton, wool or silk. You’ll need to choose the material of your new bag depending on the activities you plan to use it during. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, look for a waterproof bag, so your belongings don’t get damaged during heavy rain.
Straps – Straps on these type of bags should always be adjustable so that they fit perfectly to your body shape and size. When the straps are adjusted to your size, it will stop the bag from falling or sliding off your shoulder. Always wear a sling backpack diagonally across your body for good weight distribution.
Pockets – All bags usually come with a main compartment, and then a selection of smaller pockets on the inside and outside. If you are using this type of bag for sport or exercise, make sure it has a water bottle holder on the outside for easy access to hydration. Pockets on a bag can help you to keep your belongings well organized and ensure that your smaller, valuable items such as keys and money don’t get lost at the bottom of the bag. If you plan to carry your laptop in the bag to go to work, look for a bag with padding to protect your device.
