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You may like the style of roll top backpacks, the water-resistance they provide, or the secure closure. Whatever your reason for wanting a roll top backpack, this buyer’s guide is for you. You will find detailed reviews of the top-rated options on the market so that you can find the best roll top backpack.
Quick Picks: The Best Roll Top Backpacks
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Roll Top Backpack for Everyday Use: Johnny Urban Roll Top Backpack
The Johnny Urban Roll Top Backpack is the best roll top backpack for work, school, and travel. It has a durable zippered closure that can be used rolled down or left unrolled for more storage space. The backpack is comfortable enough to wear all day. It’s stylish, functional, and eco-friendly. This water-resistant roll top backpack is for everyone and every occasion!
Best Waterproof Roll Top Backpack: Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack
If you need a 100% waterproof roll top backpack, the Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack is for you. It’s great for boating and other water sports. It has a large 35L capacity which is great for weekend getaways. This backpack is built to last and keep all your gear safe from the elements.
Best Roll Top Backpack for Hiking: Osprey Archeon 25 Roll Top Backpack
Osprey is a top brand for hiking backpacks and their Archeon 25 pack is the best roll top backpack for hiking. It’s got everything hikers need including a hydration sleeve, a stowable rain cover, and large exterior pockets for easy access to essential gear.
Choosing the Best Roll Top Backpack
Roll top backpacks have some unique features that separate them from traditional backpacks. For example, they generally have one large compartment rather than several smaller compartments. They also use buckles to secure the compartments rather than zippers. These features and more are explored below.
Material
The best roll top backpacks are made of water-resistant material. If you are using the backpack for activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or snowmobiling, you may want a completely waterproof roll top backpack. These are sometimes called dry bags. A waterproof roll top backpack is made of thick, denier nylon and/or a polyurethane coating.
Pockets and Compartments
A roll top backpack generally has fewer separate compartments and pockets than a traditional backpack. There will be one large, main compartment. If you like to keep everything organized in specific places, then the best roll top backpack for you will be one that has a few extra interior and exterior pockets.
Closures
The main compartment on the best roll top backpacks is large and has a large opening that makes it easy to load and unload all your gear. Instead of having a zipper, the opening rolls down to close it. Then, you secure it closed with one or two buckles. So, the best roll top backpacks need to have durable buckles. Magnetic strips on the roll down closure also help close the bag securely.
Volume
The capacity, or maximum volume, of the backpacks that made our top ten list range from 18L to 40L. We recommend choosing a roll top backpack with a large capacity because you can also roll it down to be smaller for days you don’t have a lot to carry.
Comfortability
Just like with any backpack, you want your roll top backpack to be comfortable. The best roll top backpacks will have padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel. They may also have chest and waist straps to help keep the backpack in place when you are on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Roll Top Backpacks
What Are the Benefits of a Roll Top Backpack?
The key features that make roll top backpacks stand out from traditional backpacks also provide several benefits to their users.
- Roll top backpacks have fewer zippers. Zippers can be one of the first things to break on a backpack, and broken zippers usually render a backpack virtually useless. Therefore, the best roll top backpacks have a shot to last longer than many traditional backpacks because they don’t have as many zippers.
- Roll top backpacks usually have one large compartment rather than several smaller ones. These are great backpacks for people who want a simplistic bag. You don’t have to look for things in multiple places because everything is in one place.
- Because these backpacks roll down to close, you can adjust their size depending on how much of the interior storage space you are using. If you only have a few small items in the bag, you can roll it down further to be smaller. If you need to carry a lot, you can increase the bag’s capacity by simply not rolling it as much.
Are Roll Top Backpacks Waterproof?
Not all roll top backpacks are waterproof. Many of them are water-resistant which is sufficient for most people using the bag for work and school. If you are planning to use your backpack for water or snow activities, you will want to find a 100% waterproof roll top backpack. Waterproof roll top backpacks are also great for activities like biking and hiking.
Can I Make My Backpack More Waterproof?
There are several ways to increase the water-resistance of your roll top backpack. One of the most popular is water repellent spray. It’s simple to use. All you have to do is spray the entire exterior of the backpack, and then let it dry completely in a well-ventilated area. It may take up to 48 hours to dry. You can also purchase a waterproof rain cover. They come in a variety of sizes and colors to fit almost any backpack. For an ultra low cost option, you can always line the inside of the backpack with a plastic bag.
The 10 Best Roll Top Backpacks
Johnny Urban Roll Top Backpack –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Johnny Urban Roll Top Backpack is the overall best roll top backpack. It can be used for all occasions such as work, school, and travel. I love the simplistic, classy design of this backpack. It’s appropriate to use in professional settings, and it goes with every outfit. You can choose from five different color options. The backpack has a padded laptop sleeve to hold a laptop up to 15.6 inches. There’s also a side pocket for a water bottle and a zippered front pocket to hold smaller items.
One of the coolest features of this backpack is that the main compartment has a zipper. This means the backpack can be rolled down and secured with a velcro strap or left unrolled and zipped closed. Using it unrolled increases the maximum capacity from 18L to 22L. This is also the best roll top backpack for eco-conscious shoppers because it’s made with up to 100% recycled plastic.
Notes:
- Made of recycled material
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Side pocket and front zippered pocket
- Water-resistant
- Padded shoulder straps
- Comes in 5 color options
- Not 100% waterproof
Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack is extremely durable and completely waterproof. It’s the best waterproof roll top backpack because it’s made with heavy-duty PVC and welded seams. This backpack will keep all your gear protected from the elements. It’s great for all kinds of outdoor activities such as boating, rafting, and fishing.
It’s also comfortable and functional. It has padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel. The internal organizer has three pockets and a key clip to keep all your personal items organized. The backpack comes in two sizes: 25L and 35L. It’s big enough to hold everything you need for all your adventures.
Notes:
- Waterproof
- Floats
- Internal organizer
- Chest strap
- Padded shoulder straps and back panel
- Comes in 2 sizes and 9 colors
- No side pockets
- No laptop sleeve
Osprey Archeon 25 Men's Roll Top Backpack –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Osprey Archeon 25 is the best roll top backpack for hiking. It has a hydration sleeve that can hold a 3L water bladder for long hikes. It has a built-in rain cover for sudden weather changes. It’s also extremely comfortable. It has a breathable, suspension system that Osprey backpacks are known for. To keep all your outdoor gear organized, there are two large side pockets, an expandable front pocket, and an internal zippered pocket.
Eco-friendly shoppers will love this backpack because it’s made of recycled materials while still meeting Osprey’s high standard of quality. It also comes in a women’s version that offers different color options.
Notes:
- 3L hydration sleeve
- Waist and chest straps
- Built-in rain cover
- Trusted brand
- 4 total pockets
- Made with recycled materials
Timbuk2 Spire Backpack –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Timbuk2 Spire Backpack is the best roll top backpack if you are looking for something rugged and functional. The roll top closure uses a durable, aluminum hook. On the front of the pack, there are straps to hold a u-lock which makes this the best roll top backpack for bike commuters. There are two zippered front pockets for storing things you want to access quickly. Inside the main compartment, there is a padded laptop compartment for holding laptops up to 15.6 inches. On the back of the backpack, you will find a zipper to access the laptop without having to unroll the pack.
Notes:
- Water-resistant
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Quick access to laptop
- U-lock holder
- 3 exterior pockets
- Not 100% waterproof
- Only one side pocket
Go Back Trail Roll Top Black Backpack –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Go Back Trail Roll Top Backpack is another great hiking backpack. It’s versatile for all your outdoor adventures. Due to the roll top design, it can expand from 25L for day hikes to 40L for overnight and weekend trips. It only weighs 2.5 pounds, so it won’t add much to your total pack weight when on trail. The backpack also has an internal frame that can be removed to make it even lighter. If you like to keep everything organized, you will love this backpack. The hip belts have pockets, plus there are mesh side pockets and an oversized front pocket.
Notes:
- 100% waterproof
- Five external pockets
- Built-in safety whistle and ice ax loops
- Lightweight
- No hydration sleeve
Under Armour Adult SC30 Signature Rolltop Backpack –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Under Armour makes quality products, and their Signature Rolltop Backpack is no exception. If you want a top-rated backpack that’s also machine-washable, this is the best roll top backpack for you. The magnetic strip and metal hooks are durable and provide a secure closure to keep all your belongings safe. I love the front zippered pocket for securely storing smaller items such as my phone and keys. The side pockets also unzip to expand, so they can hold large water bottles.
Notes:
- Water-resistant
- Machine washable
- Padded laptop sleeve
- 3 exterior pockets
- Trusted brand
- Not 100% waterproof
XRAY Expandable Roll Top Waterproof Trendy Backpack –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This XRAY Expandable backpack is the best roll top backpack for folks on a budget. It has thick padding on the ergonomic back panel and shoulder straps for maximum comfort. There is a padded sleeve with a velcro strap to protect your laptop while on the go. The backpack has a simplistic design. There is one strap with a plastic buckle on the roll top closure. There is also one interior and one exterior zipper pocket. Although the backpack is marketed as 100% waterproof, users have reported that water may leak inside during heavy rain or if it gets submerged in water.
Notes:
- Water-resistant
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Ergonomic back panel
- Comes in five colors
- Not 100% waterproof
- No side pockets
The North Face Flyweight Rolltop –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The North Face Flyweight Rolltop is unique because it can pack down into its own pocket. This makes it a great day bag to take on longer trips because it won’t take up much space in your luggage. It’s the lightest in weight of our ten best roll top backpacks. Despite weighing only 5 ounces, this backpack is quite durable. It’s made of rip-stop material with a durable water-repellent finish. There is only one main compartment, but there is a hidden zippered pocket on the back panel for storing small items like money and IDs.
Notes:
- Lightweight
- Packs into pocket
- Trusted brand
- Water-resistant
- Made of rip-stop material
- Not 100% waterproof
- No side pockets
- No laptop sleeve
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This Berliner Bag is the best roll top backpack for those looking for a leather rucksack style bag. It’s fashionable for everyone and comes in medium and x-large sizes. It has a front pocket that matches the rucksack style with a buckle closure. Inside the backpack, you will find a laptop sleeve with a velcro strap to hold your device in place. There is an internal organizer in front of the laptop sleeve. It includes a zippered pocket, a phone-sized pocket, and a clip for your keys.
Notes:
- Water-resistant
- 4 total pockets
- Comes in two sizes
- Made of leather
- No side pockets
- No padding
Camelbak Pivot Roll Top Backpack –
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Camelbak Pivot Roll Top Backpack is made of up to 50% repurposed materials. This makes it one of the best roll top backpacks for eco-conscious shoppers. It’s completely waterproof and made of durable material. This backpack has a 20L capacity which makes it ideal for long day hikes. It has three external pockets including an expandable side pocket and a zippered, waterproof side pocket. Inside there is a 2L hydration sleeve and a smaller zippered pocket.
Notes:
- Made with recycled materials
- 2L hydration sleeve
- Waterproof
- Expandable side pocket
- Straps are not padded
- No laptop sleeve
Closing Remarks
After extensive research, the Johnny Urban Roll Top Backpack stood out as the overall best roll top backpack. It’s truly versatile enough for all occasions. It also makes a great gift for your loved ones or yourself! No matter which of the best roll top backpacks you choose, remember to think about the type of material and closures it has, its size and capacity, and the pockets and compartments. Evaluating these features will help you find the right roll top backpack for you.
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