Best 31 Rolltop Backpacks
BEST ROLLTOP BACKPACKS
First up in our guide to the best rolltop backpacks is the Tuck backpack from Timbuk2, which is a very streamlined and simplistic approach to this kind of bag. Even still, you get the benefit of spacious internal compartment with various miniature pockets for keeping gadgets, pens and various other small things safe and tidy. You’ll also find a useful and hidden side zipped pocket to the back for storing anything you don’t want to advertise, great for wallets and other sensitive items.
There’s even a small pocket at the front with a zip for keeping things close to hand and slip pockets at either side for either umbrellas, u-locks or water bottles. As many of you may use this for work or play, it’s good to know it’s got a special internal pocket designed to fit laptop’s up to 15-inches.
Specs
- Waterproof No
- Material Polyester
- Weight 1.5lbs
The Oakley Voyage for men is the next rolltop backpack in our guide. This has a maximum of 23-liter capacity which is ideal for a wide variety of different uses, whether it’s for work, pleasure or whatever else you may be up to. This provides excellent ventilation and comfort thanks to the shoulder straps and anatomically-designed back panel made from EVA.
There’s an internal sleeve with padding on the interior which is ideal for a laptop or tablet of up to 15-inches and there’s also 2-way zipper that runs up the side to give you easy access to the main compartment of the bag. If you find that the interior does not provide quite enough space for bits and pieces, accessories can be attached to the daisy chains on the exterior.
Specs
- Waterproof No
- Material 1000D Cordura Nylon
- Weight 2.2lbs
From Harvest Label, 4th in our guide is a modern version of a very classic and traditional rolltop bag. It may be smaller than some of the bags featured here, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in style and functionality. The touch of leather accents with their smart brown tones, sit nicely against the blue exterior and grey rolltop.
Compared to more simplistic rolltops this is a very well-kitted out bag indeed with a large enough main compartment, fully-lined for extra protection for your contents and a few different pockets and smaller storage compartments. As well as the rolltop entry point, there’s also a zippered entry point at the back too. Comfortable shoulder pads and a back panel that incorporates ventilation mesh completes this good-looking backpack.
Specs
- Waterproof No
- Material Vegetable-tanned leather accents, 1000D PU-coated Polyester body
- Weight 1.0lbs
All your on-the-go storage needs can be fully met and more with this versatile bag. The Chrome Barrage is waterproof and thanks to its 34-liter capacity offers a great amount of storage space for many items. In addition to having space for anything similarly sized to a 15-inch laptop or tablet, there’s also side pocket that slips into the design suitable for either a water bottle or a U-lock.
As if that wasn’t enough, you are also treated to a 5-point cargo netting storage system that’s ideal for carry items like shoes, wet race gear or even a helmet. As is a standard in many rolltops there’s a back panel of EVA-foam to support your back and provide breathability, while the shoulder straps and sternum strap, as well as the mini seat belt buckle, all help to distribute the load safely.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material 1000D Cordura Outer Shell, 600D Military-grade Tarpaulin inner
- Weight 3.3lbs
The Earth Pak waterproof backpack has been made with on-the-water or close-to-the-water activities in mind. Not only does it have a total capacity of 35-liters, from a main compartment that can be access via the rolltop closure, but it’s been design with waterproofing on a single strip for reinforcing it to stop water from getting into the opening.
As well as the roomy main compartment, you also get a phone case waterproofed with an IPX8 rating and interior and frontal pockets for smaller items. Carrying it is made easy due to the anatomically designed and padded back paneling and the contoured and reinforced shoulder straps. If needed, there’s even a sternum strap for additional support.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material 500D PVC
- Weight 3lbs
From the purveyors of stylish sportswear and accessories, Under Armor comes this nifty rolltop backpack. Taken from the Stephen Curry SC30 Collection, you know this has passed not just the company’s rigorous quality and standard checks, but also the NBA star’s own too. Thanks to the use of UA Storm tech this has a high-performance waterproofing finish, which is perfect for protecting the 25-liters of gear and stuff you can carry in this bag.
The rolltop closure is kept secure with straps that hook-shut and a magnetic closure system too and there’s more than enough for any laptop as big as 15-inches. A quick-access pocket with zipper closure can be found at the front and there’s fully-adjustable shoulder straps and a sternum strap to the front to provide the support and comfort you need.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Polyester
- Weight 2.5lbs
Although it’s heavier than others we’ve featured so far, the name Thule and the quality of their products should be an indication that this is worth considering. It’s also the reason why this sits at such a higher price point than others. As the name suggests, this is more of a specialist rolltop backpack, designed for a prosumer DSLR camera with an ultra-wide-angled lens attached, along with any drone measuring as much as 260 x 200 x 100mm.
It features the SafeZone camera pod system that can be removed and has bottom with dual-density padding. Constructed from highly water-resistant and rugged Oxford nylon, there’s also space for a 15-inch MacBook Pro and even an iPad. Within the rolltop compartment there’s space for storing personal, non-equipment items.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Oxford Nylon
- Weight 4.97lbs
For a considerate jump in price, if you’re budget allows it, why not consider this great rolltop-style rucksack from Milford. Made from supple mid-weight leather that’s around 5 to 6-ounces heavy and robust enough to face whatever challenges you put it through. Whether you’re looking to use it as a day-to-day bag or on a hike or some other kind of adventure, this is a great choice.
No matter how much or how little you need to carry, the rolltop closure will ensure your gear is always safe.
Specs
- Waterproof No
- Material Oxford Nylon
- Weight N/A
The next rolltop backpack in one of the best rolltop backpacks for bikers. It’s been constructed from wet-waxed cotton canvas and leather paneling that will ensure it lasts for a long time and is able to cope with daily use on the back of a motorcycle. There’s more than enough space on the interior for a 15-inch laptop and other gear. Leather panels on the exterior give it a reinforced feel, while the speed zippers and buckles with the appealing Burly embossed logo on them make for a very attractive, but also functional pack.,
You’ll find that the zippered pocket at the front is perfect for anything small you want to keep separate and as the rolltop offers variable height, you can take as little or as much as you need in it.
Specs
- Waterproof No
- Material Leather, UV-treated, wet-waxed cotton canvas
- Weight 2lbs
The 21-liter Dalston from f-stop is another great rolltop backpack that’s suitable for storing and transporting a digital camera. As well as the wide and easy-access opening to the top, there’s also two side zippered pockets where you can keep gear. For a laptop or tablet with the maximum size of 15-inches, there’s a padded pocket on the back panel of the bag.
On the interior, there’s a convenient brushed-nylon and padded storage section that can be removed and is split into 5 different sections. With high-quality TPU weather resistance, this is perfect for taking your gear from a to b come rain or shine.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material 420D ripstop nylon, TPU, brushed-nylon
- Weight 1.8lbs
Refined, but robust and rugged rolltop backpack we want to discuss now is from TUMI. The London Alpha Bravo rolltop has a large enough capacity and more than enough space for your phone, tablet and laptop. With the wide-opening at top with zip closure, there’s enough space to store clothing and other items too.
Thanks to its ballistic nylon construction it won’t let you down, even if you use daily. In addition to the main compartment you also get a special pocket for iPad or similarly-sized tablet, 2 pockets for cards and 3 open pockets.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Ballistic nylon
- Weight 4.16lbs
Victorinox is one of the most reputable names in backpacks and similar equipment, so it was only a matter of time before we’d mention at least on product from them here. A cutting-edge design that’s also convenient, the Altmont Classic is perfect for carrying a laptop, along with other items too. The rolltop closure provides you with the ability to alter the height and size of it. There’s a side-entry and rear compartment that is padded and provides suitable protection for a standard 15-inch laptop with zipper closure.
As Victorinox know a thing or two about organization, the interior compartment zippered pocket and file divider along with storage slots and key fob. On the exterior there’s also a storage pocket with vertical zip and bottle opener along with two additional adjustable pockets for umbrellas or water bottles.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material N/A
- Weight 1.46lbs
ASUS are obviously known as a computer, laptop and electronic devices manufacturer, so you’d expect their laptop rolltop backpacks to be high-quality. With this ROG (Republic of Gamers) Voyager, we’re pleased to say it’s of high quality. A lightweight design, its constructed from rugged water-resistant materials on the exterior making it suitable for everyday use.
Given its name, it’s been designed with gamers in mind and will provide enough space for you to carry your gaming laptop or other device, securely and safely. As well as the main compartment via the hook and strap rolltop closure, there’s also a front pocket for storing smaller items in.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material N/A
- Weight 2.6lbs
The appropriately named company Mad Water’s waterproof rolltop backpack is the next bag we’re looking at. In many ways this is a quintessential classically-designed rolltop. With the bonus that it’s highly waterproof. The RF welding utilized in the construction, along with the buckle closure for the rolltop enable this to achieve a waterproof rating of IPX6.
A striking thing about this bag, aside from the smart coloring is the fact it will float on water when it’s fully sealed up. To make wearing and using it comfortable there’s a robust carry handle at the top, adjustable and padded shoulder straps with a sternum strap, a padded back panel and a fully adjustable waist belt.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material PVC interior, Nylon exterior
- Weight 2.1lbs
Another classy waterproof rolltop backpack in our guide comes in the form of The Friendly Swede’s Varberg design. This is constructed from industrial-grade 500D Polyvinyl tarpaulin that will help to keep your gear and belongings dry and protected, regardless of what Mother Nature throws at you.
Bags from The Friendly Swede are known for their functionality and the Varberg is no different. Highly visible reflective detailing, a survival whistle for emergencies and in addition to the spacious main compartment, there’s two roomy mesh pockets for carrying whatever you need. It won’t look out of place on an outdoor adventure or at the office and holds a massive 33-liters.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material 500D Polyvinyl Tarpaulin
- Weight N/A
Back with Victorinox again and this time with the Active rolltop backpack from the Altmont line. This is a handy bag to have if you’re looking for a compact design that’ll still hold a laptop or tablet up to 15-inches in size and want to benefit from nice additional storage pockets and compartments. Within the main part of the bag, there’s a file divider. There’s also two stretchy pockets to the side that are perfect for water bottles and other accessories you need close to hand.
Its rolltop closure is secured using an SR buckle and snaps and comfort is considered with the inclusion of load-shifting pulls, shoulder straps that can be easily adjusted and a back panel with compression-molding.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Polyester
- Weight 1.54lbs
The second Timbuk2 rolltop backpack we’re featuring is the rather attractive Heist model. Along with the rolltop closure there’s a zippered side compartment that gives you extra storage when necessary and easy to access. When visibility is poor or you’re out and about at night, there’s reflective paneling.
It’s even designed with 500D water-resistant TPU on the exterior, to protect your belongings in all weather. Not only does it look great, but it has space on the inside in its internal pocket for a 15-inch iPad and MacBook.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material 500D TPU
- Weight 1.54lbs
At a slightly higher price point than some of the others in our guide, next in our guide is the rather awesome Fishpond Wind River rolltop backpack. With a 38-liter capacity and 1680D TPU coating for waterproofing. Its main compartment is roomy enough for most of your gear, but there’s also a stretchy mesh pocket at the front with a zipper closure on the exterior. To the interior you’ll also find a small pocket for gear and internal organization and a pocket with zipper closure.
For comfort, it benefits from an ergonomically-molded back panel, a hip belt, adjustable shoulder straps with lightweight foam padding and gear straps that can be position either on the right or the left. All in all, a worthy investment.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material 1680D TPU
- Weight 3.5lbs
From Urban Dezire comes the next rolltop backpack in our guide. This rolltop has two large compartments on the interior that are perfect for carrying tablets, laptops, files and documents that you want easy access to. Additionally, there’s 2 other compartments with zipper closures for keeping more important items like paperwork and documents safe and secure. With a rugged, but aesthetically-appealing leather exterior, the interior of the bag is lined with canvas.
Although small, if you don’t want to carry too much around, this is the perfect solution.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Canvas lining, Vintage leather
- Weight 2.7lbs
For something that only has a capacity of 20-liters you may wonder why this has such a high price. Sandqvist, though, are a very reputable brand and therefore, the quality and care that has gone into the design and construction of this bag is second to none. It’s made from special Condura Eco Made polyester to give it water resistance and durability and benefits from selection of compartments and storage pockets.
For instance, there’s an internal pocket designed specifically for laptops and tablets. To make it as easy and comfortable to wear and use, the Bernt rolltop has adjustable shoulder straps. It looks great and performs its role exceedingly well.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Condura Eco Made Polyester
- Weight 1.72lbs
This encompasses all that’s great about utilitarian waxed canvas backpacks with a touch of New York style and rolltop adjustability. On the inside, as is very much a standard in these kinds of bags, as you’ll notice from our guide, there’s a large pocket with padding suitable for 15.6-inch laptops. In addition to that, as most people use more than one device, there’s also room in another pocket for a tablet/iPad.
The lining has been finished using high-quality Oxford cotton and in addition to the storage space on the inside, there’s side pockets and an organizer compartment at the front with zipper closure and key clips for hanging accessories from. Comfort has been considered by Solo with the padded out back panel and the comfortable backpack-style straps.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Waxed Canvas
- Weight 2.65lbs
From Polar Outdoor Stuff, this 35-liter backpack with rolltop closure is perfect for a wide range of uses. In addition to the large and roomy main compartment, where there’s space for most of your gear, there’s also two side pockets with zipper closure.
To give you quick and easy access to your devices though, you can even take your laptop or tablet using the zipper entry point. At under 2-pounds in weight, it will not feel bulky or cumbersome to use this.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Polyester
- Weight N/A
This beautiful, smart rolltop backpack is made by the stylish team at Reverlry Supply and has been very aptly named The Drifter. Perfect for long journeys and adventures or if you’re just looking for a rugged solution to carrying your gear on a day-to-day basis. Made from rubber-backed nylon, it has a maximum capacity of 23-liters and an extremely roomy internal compartment, especially when you consider its size.
The waterproof zipper closure ensures that water stays where it should be – on the outside and the ergonomically-fashioned shoulder straps make it easy to wear and use. For additional storage space there’s a secret stash pocket hidden on the inside and the double clip closure and rolltop opening enable you to adjust its height and dimensions to meet your needs.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Rubber-backed Nylon, Leather accents
- Weight 4lbs
Filson are known for their waterproof accessories and this Rolltop backpack from the company is no different. Made from rugged twill and tin cloth with an oily finish, it rocks a very spacious main compartment, bolstered by a sleeve specially designed to hold a laptop or tablet. From the side, you can access the main section easily and there’s numerous pockets all round the exterior for additional storage options
The bridle saddle-grade leather accents give it a touch of outdoors charm, while the adjustable cinch straps, shoulder straps and back panel with paneling ensure it’s comfortable to wear.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Bridle saddle-grade leather details, 22oz twill, 15oz tin cloth and oil finish, cotton lining
- Weight 3.6lbs
This cotton canvas rolltop backpack from Johnny Urban is one cool customer of a bag. The cotton canvas not only gives it a stylish urban look but gives it its durability. This makes it ideal for use daily. The rolltop, as ever, can be adjusted to give you much or as little space for storage as you need.
Carrying it is made an easier and more enjoyable experience, despite its 18 to 22-liter capacity, thanks to the padding at the bottom and back of the bag in the form of rubber coating. While the shoulder straps also benefit from padding to protect your arms and shoulders. It even has the benefit of being flight-approved and meets the dimensional requirements of most airlines for hand luggage.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Cotton canvas
- Weight 1.76lbs
Looking for a smooth and almost modern take on a traditional rolltop classic? Look no further than the Moleksine rolltop backpack. Perfect for your urban and light rural adventures, this has a very large main compartment that has room for all your important gadgets and other gear. The rolltop closure is finished off with a zipper for keeping everything secure. It even has a padded compartment for your device on the interior that keeps them separate to everything else, ensuring that they’re always safe.
Like many others in our guide, there’s also the side access in addition to the rolltop opening, that makes it easier to get at the things you really need, when you need them. With a 100% durable PU construction and high-quality air-mesh back panel, you could do a lot worse than choosing this bag.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material PU
- Weight 1.76lbs
After several stunning, but admittedly expensive rolltop backpacks, we’re pleased to highlight one of the more affordably priced models out there. The Mission Critical bag we have here offers a great number of features that make it more valuable than the less than the price it’s retailing at. These features include the lightweight construction using the extremely durable 1000D hexagon-ripstop nylon and the zipper pockets on the exterior and interior along with the water bladder pocket, in addition to the spacious main storage space.
Comfort and safety were one of the primary concerns, its clear, when this bag was designed, as it comes with a survival whistle, ergonomically-designed and padded straps.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material 1000D Hexagon-Ripstop Nylon
- Weight 1.2lbs
Calling all prospective members of the Rebel Alliance. There’s no point in rocking up to the rebel strongholds unless you have something that shows your allegiance in a loud and proud fashion. Like this official piece of Star Wars merchandise. Constructed from high-quality polyester with the traditional Rebel Alliance orange and grey/off-white colorings, this is perfect for all those looking to take on the Empire and Kylo Ren.
As well as the roomy main storage section, there’s also what every rebel needs, numerous pockets and that all-important Alliance Starbird emblem.
Specs
- Waterproof No
- Material Polyester
- Weight 1.56lbs
From Renwick, comes our next rolltop backpack, which is heavy marketed towards you techies out there. As well as the obligatory sleeve for laptops and tablets, that many backpacks have these days, there’s also what the company refers to as a ‘tech burrito’ to store all your cables and other essential tech and gadget accessories. Documents and paperwork can be stored in an organized manner in the dedicated pocket, while there’s even a pocket to conveniently store a water bottle.
Comfort is always a concern with anything you’re carrying on your shoulders and against your back and Renwick ensure this is a joy to wear and use. Mainly thanks to the padded shoulder straps and back paneling.
Specs
- Waterproof No
- Material Polyester
- Weight N/A
The inspiration behind this LB09 from PKG is clearly the materials and silhouettes of modern urban landscape-suitable clothing and accessories. Sophisticated and practical, this bag is made from fabric that is both breathable and waterproof, as well as being particularly lightweight.
Padded shoulder straps, a sturdy handle at top and other components ensure that it’s a breeze walking with this on your back. Breeze is accurate, thanks to the well-ventilated back paneling.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material N/A
- Weight N/A
The final bag in our guide is this rather attractive, if loud and proud burnt orange rolltop backpack from the Poler Outdoor Stuff. Resembling the kinda colors you’d expect on a lifeguard’s dinghy, this is a high-quality rucksack with rolltop style closure that is jam-packed with great features and nice touched.
As well as the wide-opening access at the top, there’s also a buckle closure that can be easily released to give you access to the bag and your belongings from the side. Whether you’re planning an intensive trip of hiking and other outdoor pursuits or just looking to have a rugged bag that will endure constant wear, tear and even a little abuse, this is worth considering. The laptop sleeve, as expected, is padded on the inside, while there’s leather-made lash tabs and compression straps to the sides and an accessory pocket with a zipper closure. Considering the reputation Poler Outdoor Stuff has for designing and constructing reliable and stylish outdoor gear, it’s not surprising.
Specs
- Waterproof Yes
- Material Nylon
- Weight N/A
Roll Up, Pack Up and Head Out
That’s our guide to the best rolltop backpacks available right now. We’re sure that if you were just looking as a complete newbie to this style of bag or because you’ve spent so long scratching your head trying to work out which is best for you, that you’ll find it above. It’s important, as with any bag, that when you’re looking at rolltop backpacks that you consider their use and application ahead of anything else. After all, what’s the point in trying to buy any old bag if you’ve not given it some thought as to how much you need to store in it. Once, you know that, you’re then better equipped to sift through the choices to get to the one that meets other important criteria.
Budget is obviously a major concern when you’re buying anything. Although a buying decision should not be based solely on the price tag, it’s a crucial factor. That’s why you’ll notice that there’s a mixture of both the higher end of the price range and lower, modest budget-friendly bags. If you’re looking for something ridiculously simple that’ll provide you with a reasonable amount of space for a ridiculously low price, you’d want to give some serious consideration to the Mission Critical rolltop.
However, the manufacturer when it comes to bags, especially rucksacks and backpacks, is just as important. Brands like Victorinox, Sandqvist, Poler Outdoor Stuff, Oakley and Timbuk2, among others, obviously have sterling reputations when it comes to producing high-quality storage and baggage options. They are the companies that put a lot of effort, time, expertise and financing into designing and producing the high-end backpacks and if you want the best of the best rolltops, regardless of price, then you need to look at those.
It’s fair to say that rolltops are known for their simplicity, but the more you’re willing to pay, the more compartments and extra features you’ll get the benefit of. Do you need waterproofing? Do you need a similar amount of external and internal pockets as a standard rucksack or backpack, but with the height adjustability that comes with rolltops? These are the kinda questions you need to think about how you’d answer. Once you’ve considered all the above, choose the one that fits you best and enjoy how easier and more enjoyable the very best rolltop backpacks can make your life.