Deal: Get RiutBag Crush free when you add RiutBag R15.4 and Crush to your cart! Shipping to 🇬🇧 UK and mainland 🇺🇸 US addresses

What is the best size backpack for daily use? Top questions 2024

The best size backpack for daily use depends on a few considerations like what you typically carry on a daily basis, your individual needs and lifestyle. Here are some key points to help you determine the best size:

  1. Capacity: For daily use, a smaller backpack with a capacity of around 18-25 litres is sufficient. This size provides enough space to carry essentials like a laptop, notebook, water bottle, food, and personal items without being too bulky or cumbersome.

  2. Size: Looking for a 18-25 litre backpack, the physical size should be about 50cm / 20inches. This reduces the depth, meaning your backpack doesn't stick out too much. 

Other considerations:

  1. Laptop Compartment: If you carry a laptop or tablet daily, look for a backpack with a padded laptop compartment that fits your device securely. This won't increase the litre capacity much at all, but it will mean you can carry your laptop comfortably without damaging it.

  2. Organisation: Consider your organisation needs. Look for a backpack with at least three compartments, pockets to help keep your belongings separate, organised and easily accessible throughout the day. Most commuters find bottle holders an important feature.

  3. Comfort: Choose a backpack with padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel to ensure comfort during extended wear. Adjustable straps and a chest strap can also help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your shoulders and back. Counter-intuitively, this might increase the weight slightly. However, the added structure provides you with greater daily comfort. 

  4. Versatility: Consider whether you'll be using the backpack for activities beyond daily commuting, such as walking, touristic trips or running errands. A versatile backpack that can adapt to different situations may be more practical for daily use.

  5. Style: Select a backpack that matches your personal style and aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer a sleek, urban, minimalist design or a more rugged, outdoorsy look, choose a backpack that reflects your individual taste. This won't add to the size, but it will help you eliminate some styles from your search.

  6. Durability: Look for a backpack made from durable materials like nylon or polyester with reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers to ensure longevity, especially if you'll be using it daily.

Ultimately, the best size backpack for daily use is one that comfortably accommodates your daily essentials while offering comfort and durability to suit your lifestyle and preferences. Start with what you need to carry and then take it from there.

View secure laptop backpacks for work and travel.