Roll up, roll up! Today we bring a very special post about the best roll top backpacks.
I have been reviewing backpacks for 3 years now and have seen first-hand that over the last few years, roll top backpacks have absolutely surged in popularity among both adventurers and commuters alike. This is because of their unique blend of style, versatility, and durability. Originally roll-top bags were a go-to choice for bikers and commuters who were seeking to protect their gear from the elements but now, these innovative backpacks have evolved into a staple for trekkers, digital nomads, and style-conscious travellers.
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect blend of functionality and fashion, dive into our meticulously curated list of the best roll top backpacks for 2024. In this post, we will look at 10+ of the best roll top backpacks on the market for travellers, commuters and more.
Photo: @themanwiththetinyguitar
Osprey Arcane Roll Top
- Size > 52 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 0.8 kg
- Main Material > 500D Recycled Polyester Packcloth
- Capacity > 22 Litres
TropicFeel Shelter Essential Pack
- Size > 55 cm x 33 cm x 20 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 1.0 kg
- Main Material > Water-resistant 600D Polyester
- Capacity > 40 Litres
Isle Gateway Roll Top
- Size > 50 cm x 32 cm x 20 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 1.2 kg
- Main Material > High-Density Waterproof Nylon
- Capacity > 20 Litres
Stubble & Co Roll Top
- Size > 49 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 1.1 kg
- Main Material > Waterproof Canvas and Natural Full Grain Leather
- Capacity > 18 Litres
TropicFeel Waterproof Daypack
- Size > 48 cm x 28 cm x 15 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 0.8 kg
- Main Material > Water-resistant 600D Polyester
- Capacity > 22 Litres
Osprey Transporter Roll Top
- Size > 53 cm x 32 cm x 23 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 1.1 kg
- Main Material > 400D Nylon TPU Double Coated
- Capacity > 25 Litres
GotBag Rolltop
- Size > 66 cm x 28 cm x 15 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 1.2 kg
- Main Material > Recycled Ocean Plastic
- Capacity > 23 Litres
ALPS Mountaineering Torrent Dry Bag
- Size > 73 cm x 32 cm (HxW, when unrolled)
- Weight > 1.1 kg
- Main Material > 500D Polyester Ripstop with TPU Coating
- Capacity > 70 Litres
Gregory Resin Roll Top Pack
- Size > 61 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 0.95 kg
- Main Material > Recycled Nylon (210D)
- Capacity > 30 Litres
Tredz Ortileb Daypack
- Size > 50 cm x 30 cm x 15.5 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 0.65 kg
- Main Material > PS33 (Nylon fabric, PVC-coated)
- Capacity > 21 Litres
Fjallraven Ulvo RollTop
- Size > 43 cm x 26 cm x 12 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight > 0.65 kg
- Main Material > Bergshell (100% nylon 400D)
- Capacity > 23 Litres
All About Roll Top Backpacks
The allure of roll top backpacks extends beyond their sleek and minimalist design. Their signature rolling closure mechanism offers an expandable storage solution, making them an adaptable companion for both urban explorations and wild adventures. If you need an extendable bag that you can make bigger or condense down smaller as and when your needs dictate, then a roll top bag may be the pack you need. They make for great everyday backpacks as a result.
Crafted from robust materials (usually anyway), these backpacks are designed to withstand the rigours of daily commutes and impromptu escapades alike. With the rise in popularity, a whole array of brands have now embraced the roll top design, incorporating innovative features and sustainable materials to cater to the discerning modern traveller.
As such, the market for roll top travel packs has never been richer. While this is a brilliant and wonderful thing, it does mean that choosing the right one can prove a bit overwhelming. However, below, we’ve chosen 10 of the very best ones that you can buy, so you’ll be able to make a completely informed decision and pick out the best for your needs.
Osprey Arcane Roll Top
- Size: 52 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 0.8 kg
- Main Material: 500D Recycled Polyester Packcloth
- Capacity: 22 Litres
The Osprey Arcane Roll Top backpack represents a harmonious blend of urban sophistication and sustainable design. Crafted from 500D recycled polyester packcloth, it is not only a backpack that champions eco-friendly practices but also provides a resilient, weatherproof shield for all of your essentials. It’s the perfect companion for both daily commutes and spontaneous adventures. The 22-litre capacity is deceptively spacious, offering ample room to carry your day-to-day essentials while maintaining a sleek, streamlined profile.
Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the Arcane Roll Top. The roll-top closure ensures easy access while offering an adjustable storage space, allowing the backpack to adapt effortlessly to your packing needs. The material’s durability is matched by its water-resistant properties, ensuring that your belongings stay dry and protected no matter the weather.
Comfort and functionality are at the core of the Osprey Arcane Roll Top’s design. The backpack features soft, breathable shoulder straps and a back panel that provides support and ventilation, ensuring comfort even when the bag is fully loaded. Finally, reflective graphics and a loop for a bike light attachment enhance visibility and safety in low-light conditions. All these features add up to one of the most stylish and functional of the backpacks Osprey offers.
Black Diamond Beta Light 30L Backpack
- Size: N/A
- Weight (Kg): 695 g
- Main Material: Ultra 200
- Capacity: 30 Litres
When it comes to roll-top bags it’s easy to think of your classic hipster pack on the bag of a guy showing way too much ankle on a fixed-gear bike! Now, there’s nothing wrong with that, but Black Diamond is here to show us that a roll-top bag is about so much more than looks.
Made for those wanting to move fast and stay agile on the trails this pack is designed for comfort and speed. Constructed with Challenge Sailcloth’s Ultra 200 super durable materials combined with taped seams and of course, the roll top, it’s made to keep the water out and do it day after day.
Comfort was one of the main concerns when Black Diamond was designing this bag. Not only is it super lightweight but there are innovative features like a frameless pack body as well as the running-vest-inspired shoulder straps. These straps not only provide incredible levels of comfort but added ventilation as well as storage pockets for things like ya know, sausage rolls or the like!
The unique modular design also means that the Beta Light Satellite 4L bag can be easily and securely attached for additional storage. Combine that with the external Power Mesh stretch outer pocket and two oversized ripstop side pockets and you’ve got plenty of places to throw in a rain jacket, water bottle and any other accessories you might need along the way.
TropicFeel Shelter Essential Pack
- Size: 55 cm x 33 cm x 20 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 1.0 kg
- Main Material: Water-resistant 600D Polyester
- Capacity: 40 Litres
The TropicFeel Shelter Essential Pack is a beacon of versatility and thoughtful design, engineered for the dynamic traveller who demands adaptability and reliability. Crafted from durable, water-resistant 600D polyester, this 40-litre behemoth ensures your belongings are well-protected against the vagaries of travel, be it unpredictable weather or the hustle of the urban environment. It’s not only great for backpacking adventures, but it’s a great commuter backpack too.
Attention to detail is at the core of the Shelter Essential Pack’s design ethos. The backpack features a wide roll-top closure system, offering not just an adjustable and secure packing space but also quick and easy access to your belongings. The modular design includes detachable elements like the camera cube, toiletry pouch, and tech pouch, ensuring you can customise the backpack’s layout to suit your specific travel needs, a feature we just love about TropicFeel backpacks.
Comfort is paramount in the design of the TropicFeel Shelter Essential Pack. The ergonomically designed shoulder straps, coupled with a ventilated back panel, ensure a comfortable carry even when the backpack is fully loaded. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway, a business trip, or an outdoor adventure, the TropicFeel Shelter Essential Pack stands out as a great travel companion, offering a harmonious blend of spaciousness, functionality, and adaptability.
Isle Gateway Roll Top
- Size: 50 cm x 32 cm x 20 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 1.2 kg
- Main Material: High-Density Waterproof Nylon
- Capacity: 20 Litres
The Isle Gateway Roll Top is a new one to us. It is constructed from high-density waterproof nylon, this 20-litre backpack promises not only to keep your essentials secure and dry but also to withstand the rigours of daily use, be it in the urban sprawl or on rugged trails. The Gateway Roll Top’s sleek, streamlined design exudes a sense of sophisticated minimalism while offering robust protection for your gear.
Functionality meets adaptability in the Isle Gateway Roll Top. The signature roll-top closure offers a versatile and secure means to access and store your belongings, adjusting seamlessly to accommodate your varying needs. The backpack’s design emphasises ease of use and thoughtful organisation, featuring a dedicated laptop compartment and multiple pockets strategically placed for optimal accessibility and organisation.
With its blend of style, functionality, and durability, the Isle Gateway Roll Top is more than just a waterproof backpack; it’s a statement of your readiness to embrace adventure, wherever it may find you.
Stubble & Co Roll Top
- Size: 49 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- Main Material: Waterproof Canvas and Natural Full Grain Leather
- Capacity: 18 Litres
The Stubble & Co Roll Top is the quintessence of rugged elegance, a perfect blend for the modern wanderer who values style as much as substance. Crafted from durable, waterproof canvas complemented by accents of natural full-grain leather, this 18-litre backpack not only offers a timeless aesthetic but also provides a resilient shield for your essentials, ensuring they stay dry and secure in all weather conditions. It’s one of our favourite Stubble & Co backpacks, which is saying something because they’ve got a bangin’ lineup!
Primarily designed with the urban explorer in mind, the Stubble & Co Roll Top features a secure roll-top closure system that adjusts to your carrying needs. This design not only enhances the backpack’s water-resistant capabilities but also allows for flexible storage space, ensuring you can pack everything from your tech gadgets to your travel essentials with ease.
The padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel are designed for extended wear, allowing you to navigate your day without discomfort. The leather details complement the backpack’s sleek profile, adding a touch of elegance to its rugged build. Whether you’re commuting through the city, need a bag for a weekend adventure, or exploring new horizons, the Stubble & Co Roll Top is one of the most adaptable roll top backpacks out there.
TropicFeel Waterproof Daypack
- Size: 48 cm x 28 cm x 15 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 0.8 kg
- Main Material: Water-resistant 600D Polyester
- Capacity: 22 Litres
The TropicFeel Waterproof Daypack is a symphony of innovative design, marrying the spirit of adventure with the demands of the modern urban environment. Carefully crafted from water-resistant 600D polyester, this backpack stands as a bulwark against the elements, ensuring your essentials remain dry and secure, whether you’re caught in a downpour during a city commute or traversing through misty mountain trails. This makes it not only great for city adventures, but it’s a top hiking backpack too.
TropicFeel’s commitment to sustainability and functionality shines through in their wonderful Waterproof Daypack. The backpack features a roll-top closure, providing an adjustable and secure space for your belongings, adapting effortlessly to your varying needs. The design incorporates cleverly placed pockets and compartments, including a protected laptop sleeve, ensuring that your gear is not just carried but thoughtfully organised and easily accessible.
Carrying the TropicFeel Waterproof Daypack is a breeze, thanks to its lightweight design and ergonomically engineered shoulder straps that offer unmatched comfort. The TropicFeel Waterproof Daypack is not just a carrying solution; it’s a testament to thoughtful design and a nod to the eco-conscious traveller seeking a blend of style, function, and sustainability.
Osprey Transporter Roll Top
- Size: 53 cm x 32 cm x 23 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- Main Material: 400D Nylon TPU Double Coated
- Capacity: 25 Litres
The Osprey Transporter Roll Top emerges as a true bloody standout in the realm of adventure gear, skillfully blending rugged durability with a sleek, urban aesthetic. Constructed from high-quality 400D nylon with a TPU double coating, this backpack offers truly superior resistance to the elements, ensuring that your belongings are well-protected whether you’re braving a storm in the city or embarking on a trek through the wilderness.
The 25-litre capacity is thoughtfully designed to accommodate your daily essentials, providing a versatile solution for a variety of scenarios. Osprey’s dedication to functionality and user-friendly design is evident in every facet of the Transporter Roll Top. The backpack’s design is as intuitive as it is practical, making it a solid choice for any modern adventurer.
Comfort has not been overlooked in the creation of the Osprey Transporter Roll Top either. The backpack is equipped with padded, breathable shoulder straps and a back panel designed for maximum airflow, ensuring comfort even during extended use. The backpack’s sleek profile is complemented by reflective accents, enhancing visibility and safety during low-light conditions.
GotBag Rolltop
- Size: 66 cm x 28 cm x 15 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 1.2 kg
- Main Material: Recycled Ocean Plastic
- Capacity: 23 Litres
The firm hipster favourite that is the GotBag Rolltop is not just a backpack; it’s a bold statement in sustainability and innovative design. Crafted meticulously from recycled ocean plastic, each bag contributes to the cleanup of our oceans, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious adventurers and urban explorers alike. The sleek, minimalist design doesn’t just look good; it’s also highly functional, with a roll-top closure that adjusts to your load.
Durability meets versatility in the GotBag Rolltop backpack. The robust material is not only waterproof but also tear-resistant, guaranteeing protection against the elements and the wear and tear of daily life. The thoughtful interior layout includes a padded laptop compartment, making it a perfect companion for the daily commuter or the occasional traveller. Moreover, the ergonomic shoulder straps promise a comfortable carry, even when the bag is packed to its full 23-litre capacity.
Yet, what truly sets the GotBag Rolltop apart is its commitment to the environment. Each purchase supports the cleanup of our oceans, directly contributing to the removal of plastic waste. This backpack is more than just a carrying solution; it’s a part of a movement towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.
ALPS Mountaineering Torrent Dry Bag
- Size: 73 cm x 32 cm (HxW, when unrolled)
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- Main Material: 500D Polyester Ripstop with TPU Coating
- Capacity: 70 Litres
The ALPS Mountaineering Torrent Dry Bag is an absolute behemoth in the world of adventure gear, designed for those who refuse to let the elements dictate their journey. Its massive 70-litre capacity ensures you can pack everything you need for extended expeditions, while the 500D Polyester Ripstop with TPU Coating offers unmatched durability and complete waterproof protection.
Every aspect of the Torrent Dry Bag is built with the adventurer in mind. The reinforced, padded shoulder straps offer comfort during long hauls, and the multiple lash points and compression straps provide versatility for attaching extra gear or cinching down the bag to a more compact size. The roll-top closure not only seals out moisture but also allows you to adjust the size of the bag according to your load, making it a flexible option for various trip lengths and gear requirements.
What truly sets the ALPS Mountaineering Torrent Dry Bag apart is its uncompromising approach to functionality without sacrificing comfort. The weight is distributed evenly, preventing strain on any single part of your back or shoulders, making it an ideal choice for lengthy treks, outdoor escapades or even as a hefty beach backpack!
This dry bag isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s a trusted companion that stands up to the toughest conditions, ensuring your adventure continues, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
Gregory Resin Roll Top Pack
- Size: 61 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 0.95 kg
- Main Material: Recycled Nylon (210D)
- Capacity: 30 Litres
The Gregory Resin Roll Top Pack redefines urban travel with its sleek design, robust build, and eco-friendly materials. This 30-litre backpack, crafted from high-grade 210D recycled nylon, marries durability with environmental responsibility. Whether you’re navigating bustling city streets or embarking on a casual day hike, the Resin Roll Top Pack offers a versatile solution for every kind of explorer.
The pack’s roll-top closure not only ensures a waterproof seal but also allows for expandable storage space, adapting seamlessly to your packing needs. The design is intuitive and user-friendly, featuring quick-access pockets that keep your essentials within reach. The internal organisation is just as thoughtful, with dedicated compartments for your tech, ensuring your devices are safe and accessible, making it a great backpack for university and work as well as hiking.
Comfort is paramount with the Gregory Resin Roll Top Pack. The ergonomic shoulder straps and breathable back panel ensure that you can carry your world on your back without the added strain. The sleek, minimalist design does not compromise on functionality, with every strap and pocket strategically placed to enhance your travel experience.
Tredz Ortileb Daypack
- Size: 50 cm x 30 cm x 15.5 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 0.65 kg
- Main Material: PS33 (Nylon fabric, PVC-coated)
- Capacity: 21 Litres
The cutting Tredz Ortlieb Daypack is a masterpiece of urban design, perfectly blending sleek aesthetics with unmatched practicality for the modern commuter. Crafted from high-grade PS33 nylon fabric and coated with PVC, this backpack offers a fortress for your belongings, ensuring everything stays dry and protected, no matter the weather.
Its 21-litre capacity makes it an ideal choice for daily commutes, short trips, or as a dependable carry-on for longer journeys. Ortlieb’s commitment to durability and functionality shines through in every aspect of the Daypack. The robust, waterproof material stands up to the toughest urban environments, while the roll-top closure ensures a watertight seal and flexible packing space.
But the Tredz Ortlieb Daypack isn’t just about toughness; it’s also about comfort. The lightweight design, coupled with padded, adjustable shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel, makes for an easy carry, even when the bag is full. The external pockets provide quick access to essentials, and the internal organization keeps your gear neatly arranged and accessible. Whether you’re facing a rainy commute, a bustling cityscape, or an impromptu outdoor excursion, the Tredz Ortlieb Daypack is a solid and sound choice for a roll top backpack.
Fjallraven Ulvo RollTop
- Size: 43 cm x 26 cm x 12 cm (HxWxD)
- Weight: 0.65 kg
- Main Material: Bergshell (100% nylon 400D)
- Capacity: 23 Litres
The Fjallraven Ulvo RollTop is a testament to Scandinavian design, where simplicity meets functionality, and durability coexists with eco-conscious manufacturing. This 23-litre backpack, constructed from Fjallraven’s innovative Bergshell fabric, offers a waterproof, durable haven for your belongings, making it an ideal companion for both urban explorers and outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s be honest, it’s also one of the most stylish backpacks on the market too!
The minimalist, old-skool cool aesthetic of the Ulvo RollTop is underpinned by practical design choices too. The roll-top closure not only provides a flexible approach to packing but also ensures a watertight seal to protect against the elements. The material, Bergshell, is known for its robustness and ability to withstand wear and tear, ensuring that the backpack stands the test of time and adventure.
Comfort and functionality are at the heart of the Ulvo RollTop’s design. The padded shoulder straps and back panel ensure a comfortable carry, even when the backpack is packed to its full 23-litre capacity. The interior is thoughtfully designed with compartments to keep your gear organized, and the exterior reflects Fjallraven’s commitment to practicality with easily accessible pockets and reflective details for enhanced visibility.
The Best Roll Top Backpacks – Comparison Table
| Name | Price (USD) | Weight (KG) | Capacity (L) | Main Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osprey Arcane Roll Top | 110 | 0.8 | 22 | 500D Recycled Polyester Packcloth |
| TropicFeel Shelter Essential Pack | 448 | 1.0 | 40 | Water-resistant 600D Polyester |
| Isle Gateway Roll Top | 125 | 1.2 | 20 | High-Density Waterproof Nylon |
| Stubble & Co Roll Top | 172 | 1.1 | 18 | Waterproof Canvas and Natural Full Grain Leather |
| TropicFeel Waterproof Daypack | 104 | 0.8 | 22 | Water-resistant 600D Polyester |
| Osprey Transporter Roll Top | 165 | 1.1 | 25 | 400D Nylon TPU Double Coated |
| GotBag Rolltop | 159 | 1.2 | 23 | Recycled Ocean Plastic |
| ALPS Mountaineering Torrent Dry Bag | 44.99 | 1.1 | 70 | 500D Polyester Ripstop with TPU Coating |
| Gregory Resin Roll Top Pack | 129.95 | 0.95 | 30 | Recycled Nylon (210D) |
| Tredz Ortileb Daypack | – | 0.65 | 21 | PS33 (Nylon fabric, PVC-coated) |
| Fjallraven Ulvo RollTop | 160 | 0.65 | 23 | Bergshell (100% nylon 400D) |
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Final Thoughts
Right, that’s all we have time for today but I hope you agree that we offered up a pretty sound array of options there. From the eco-conscious construction of the GotBag Rolltop to the robust and spacious ALPS Mountaineering Torrent Dry Bag, each backpack we’ve explored offers a unique blend of style, functionality, and durability to suit the varying needs of modern travellers and adventurers.
The sleek urban appeal of the Gregory Resin and the Tredz Ortlieb Daypacks speaks to the city dwellers who navigate the concrete jungles, while the rugged, adventure-ready build of the Fjallraven Ulvo and the Osprey Transporter Roll Top beckons the wild at heart. The TropicFeel Waterproof Daypack and Shelter Essential Pack stand out for their commitment to versatility and sustainability, proving that eco-friendly options don’t have to compromise on style or functionality.
In the end, whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a daily commuter, or an occasional explorer, the right roll top backpack can be a game-changer, seamlessly blending into your lifestyle while elevating your travel experience. So, choose the companion that resonates with your spirit, and set forth on your next adventure with everything you need, right on your back.
See you on the road people!
