Having a backpack that is convertible can be very useful. This will allow you to use it as both a backpack or a shoulder bag and in some cases even a duffel bag or rolling backpack. The packable sling packs are great for travel because they don’t take up much space, but still have lots of room inside for all your belongings. They also come in different sizes so you can find the one best suited to your needs and packing style. We’ll share our favorite convertible backpacks on this blog post!
What is the Best Convertible Backpack?
We could say that we traveled the world to find for you the Best Convertible Backpack and it’s partially true – we’ve been on the road since 2011 after all.
More importantly, we have done a very thorough research online and have gone through most of the available backpacks that are convertible that you can buy today. We read the comments left by people who bought and used these convertible backpacks.
We also wrote a brief convertible backpacks Buying Guide and FAQ sections to address most questions you may have.
Without further ado, here’s the list of top 5 backpacks that are convertible based on their pricing, specs and ratings by real users.
1. TARION TB-02 Light Camera Backpack
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 18.5 liters Weight: 1.87 pounds (0.85 kg) Size: 17 x 11.8 x 6 inches (43.2 x 30 x 15.2 cm) Material: High Density Waterproof Nylon Wheels: No Water Resistant: Yes Waterproof: No |
If you are looking for a cheap backpack for hiking that will help you carry your laptop and camera, you should consider getting this hiking camera bag by Tarion. The backpack features eight padded and removable dividers that can be reorganized to offer better protection for your equipment, including drones.
The bag is ultra-lightweight and compact and comes with a rain cover that makes it entirely waterproof in wet weather. It features a dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment and the main compartment dividers are also removable to create a spacious compartment. The ventilated shoulder straps are adjustable for flexibility, while the back panel features an air mesh design for breathability and comfort.
Pros
- Easy to convert to a day-pack by removing the compartment dividers,
- Has thickened protective pads that are shockproof,
- Convenient for use on short trips,
- Ultra lightweight and compact design,
- Features a tripod holder strap at the bottom for convenience
Cons
- Stitching on the straps is not up to standard for durability
2. Solgaard Lifepack Endeavor Backpack
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 30 liters Weight: 3.55 pounds (1.61 kg) Size: 19 x 11 x 7 inches (48.3 x 27.9 x 17.8 cm) Material: Shore-Tex Wheels: No Water Resistant: Yes Waterproof: No |
The Solgaard Lifepack Endeavor is a uniquely designed backpack for everyday use and traveling. It features two sections aptly named the Workzone for your mobile office and the Lifezone for your travel gear. Each section of the pack comes with multiple pockets for organization, and the bag’s capacity is expandable from 30 – 35 liters. The Lifepack Endeavor backpack features a removable hanging closet that is essentially an internal bag sectioned into three to organizes a couple of day’s worth of clothes inside the pack. When you get to your accommodation suite, all you need to do is remove the bag and hang it inside the closet without unpacking your clothes. It is a convenient feature that makes organizing your backpack a breeze and maximizes space. On a side note, Solgaard also has a suitcase product line with the hanging closet feature that won the Time Magazine Best Inventions 2018. Another notable feature of the Endeavor backpack is the Shore-Tex construction. It is a proprietary fabric made of upcycled ocean-bound plastic and helps clean up the oceans and rivers of plastic bottles. The pack comes with two external water bottle pockets and a front pocket for quick access items. The Workzone section features a 16-inch laptop shockproof compartment with document storage and cable organization spaces. The Lifezone space includes the removable closet and four hidden pockets for your wallet, cards, and valuables.
Pros
- Premium quality eco-friendly construction,
- Generous interior compartments with pockets,
- Multipurpose for everyday use and travel,
- Convenient removable closet for organization
3. Hannibal Tactical 36L MOLLE Assault Pack
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 36 liters Size: 20 x 13 x 12 inches (50.8 x 33 x 30.5 cm) |
The Hannibal tactical molle backpack is a multipurpose, military-style tactical pack with a 36L capacity. It features two main compartments with front and back compartments, and a variety of pockets to keep your stuff organized. The compartments also feature two quality zipper pulls to access your gear more easily and a molle web dominator to secure loose straps.The molle webbing throughout the front and sides of the pack is one feature I like the most because it allows you to attach lots of tactical gear. You can also use the padded hydration compartment to carry your laptop when going to work and replace it with the hydration bladder when going for your outdoor activities.
Pros
- High quality and durable double zippers,
- Features two main compartments for storage,
- Wrap-around molle webbing to attach additional gear,
- Great value for your money,
- Waterproof rubber lining in main compartments,
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps
Cons
- Loose stitching on the shoulder straps,Attachment slots are smaller than normal
4. Voltaic Systems Converter Rapid Solar Backpack
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 20 liters Weight: 2.4 pounds (1.09 kg) Size: 18 x 12 x 6 inches (45.7 x 30.5 x 15.2 cm) |
Voltaic Solar Converter includes a solar-optimized battery that stores power from the panel to provide you with consistent charging during those times when you are not in direct sunlight. It features rugged construction that can withstand everyday use and outdoor activities. This solar panel backpack has a clamshell design with a padded laptop compartment at the back, while the main storage compartment at the front allows you to pack necessities for a weekend trip.
Pros
- Includes a V25 Power Bank,
- FAA compliant as a carry-on luggage,
- 2-Year warranty on the solar panel,
- Good value for money,
- 2 USB ports to charge multiple devices,
- Easy-access clamshell design
Cons
- Solar Panel charges slowly,Poor quality zippers
5. Arc’teryx Blade 20 Backpack
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) |
The Arc’teryx Blade 20 backpack is a lightweight and durable backpack suitable for urban commutes and day hikes. While some people may feel restricted by the 20L capacity, with some careful equipment choices, it is more than enough for most day trips. While best used for urban commuting, the 15″ laptop sleeve can double up as a place for a water reservoir for those hikers who like to hydrate on the go. The back panel has been padded out to be as comfortable as possible when worn for longer trips. It also comes with a handle on the side so it can be used more like a briefcase for situations where you need to look professional.
The backpack is not streamlined for hiking but is certainly suitable enough to function on the trail. Climbers may feel a little restricted by the diminished size and lack of options for clipping gear to the outside of the pack.
Pros
- Small and lightweight – great for commuting, in-flight hand-luggage, or as a daypack. Can be carried either as a backpack or as a suitcase. Neutral design that looks professional in any circumstance. Also available in larger sizes.
Cons
- Versatile product that can be used for multiple purposes, but is not streamlined for any single one.
Verdict
TLDR: Quick summary of our findings as to what can be considered the Best Convertible Backpack is below:
Overall best convertible backpack out there: TARION TB-02 Light Camera Backpack
Premium Pick if money is not much of an issue: Solgaard Lifepack Endeavor Backpack
Budget Choice – there’s no shame in spending prudently: Hannibal Tactical 36L MOLLE Assault Pack
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying convertible backpacks
Fabric
The material used in making the backpack will determine how heavy it will be. If a dense fabric is used in the construction, then it will be heavier. Nylon propylene and polyester are the most common types of fabric used in a lightweight backpack.
The thickness of fabric also matters in determining durability. Manufacturers use deniers to measure this. The higher the deniers, the thicker the fabric. Lightweight backpacks have a lower denier rating of between 100D to 420D.
How to choose the right size of a backpack
Backpacks typically come in four main sizes – small, medium, large, and extra large.
Small – 12-35 liters: Suitable for a day trip or an overnight hike and would be the smallest of your backpacks.
Medium – 35-55 liters: This is a good size if you’re looking to do some weekend backpacking.
Large – 55-80 liters: Perfect for multi-day trips or carrying a lot of gear.
Extra large – 80+ liters: This should be reserved for people who really need to carry a lot of stuff either because they have too much gear or because they plan on carrying a lot of non-essential stuff.
Choosing the size that suits you – If you’re not sure which size to get, think about what kind of trips you’ll be doing most often and then choose one that fits nicely into that category. If you plan on carrying a lot of heavy gear or have a lot of stuff to bring along, get a large or extra large. If you usually camp for only one night or your gear is already light, consider getting a small or medium-sized backpack instead.
Versatility
Convertible backpacks are the most versatile type of backpacks that you can buy. These backpacks are a little more expensive than the regular ones but it is worth investing in them.These backpacks transform into other bags such as messenger bags, purses, duffel bags, or even briefcases whenever needed. These could be carried around easily because of this feature. Some of the convertible bags even feature wheels.
How to organize stuff in a convertible backpack
The convertible backpack is much like the messenger bag in its ability to be worn either on your back or at your side. The importance of the convertible backpack comes from its versatility for outdoor activities and travel. Here are six tips for organizing a convertible backpack:1. Make sure that you have a lot of pockets in the main body of the bag, and also at the front.2. Pack your heaviest items in the bottom so they’re more securely held in place when you’re standing.3. Use packing cubes to avoid misplacing small items.4. Consider using compression straps if you need to cinch down your bag.5. Store valuables in items that can be easily locked, like a money belt or a water-resistant pouch.6. Put electronic items in a separate compartment or bag to prevent them from getting dirty or wet.
How to choose the right style of a backpack
Backpack styles have changed over the years but these days, most backpacks are either horizontal or vertical.Horizontal – Most backpacks nowadays fall into this category. These packs have the main compartment on the bottom and then a smaller top pocket with shoulder straps for anyone who wants to use it as a briefcase. Some horizontal backpacks also have side pockets on both sides to hold water bottles or other small items.Vertical – The vertical backpack styles are designed with the main compartment on top and then smaller front pockets that can either be zippered or open. This type of backpack is more common among hikers and is especially popular because it allows the wearer to carry water bottles on the outside of the bag.
Questions and Answers About convertible backpacks
What is a convertible backpack?
A convertible backpack is a type of bag that can transform from one style into another. They are typically used for traveling and have a flexible design that allows them to adapt to the needs of the wearer.Convertible backpacks are also known as multi-function bags because they usually have multiple compartments and pockets. They are often a favorite for students, backpackers, hikers, and travelers because of the convenience they provide. The convertible carry-on bags typically can be converted from large backpacks to small duffle bags as needed by simply zipping off the top flap or bottom panel of the bag.
Is a backpack better than a shoulder bag?
Backpacks are typically better than shoulder bags because they allow you to distribute weight evenly. They also allow you to carry a lot more than most shoulder bags. The disadvantage of backpacks is that they are less comfortable and harder to access your belongings.