15 Cool Backpacks for Men • EPIC MUST-READ Reviews (2022)

• Nomatic Navigator Travel Backpack – The Overall Coolest Backpack for Men
• Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack – Cool Backpack for Men – Runner Up
• Monarc Settra – Cool Carry on Backpack for Men
• WNDRD PRVKE 31L Pack – Coolest Backpack for Photographers
• Kodiak Kobuk Leather Backpack – Coolest Leather Backpack For Men
• Osprey Skarab 30 Hydration – Cool Hiking Backpack For Men
• Aer Travel Pack 2 – Cool Backpack for Digital Nomads
• Tropicfeel Shell – Coolest Backpack for Organized Travel
• Osprey Archeon 45 Men’s Pack – Coolest Backpack for Eco Cred
• Gulu Made Motivator – Coolest Commuter Backpack For Men

Product

Description

OVERALL COOLEST BACKPACK FOR MEN

OVERALL COOLEST BACKPACK FOR MEN

Nomatic Navigator Travel Backpack

• Price: > $$$
• > High-class organization
• > Durable and water-resistant tech storage

CHECK ON NOMATIC

COOL BACKPACK FOR MEN – RUNNER-UP

COOL BACKPACK FOR MEN – RUNNER-UP

Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack

• Price: > $$$
• > Ariaprene foam padding
• > Lockable zippers

CHECK ON TORTUGA

COOL Carry On BACKPACK FOR MEN

COOL Carry On BACKPACK FOR MEN

Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack

• Price: > $$
• > Recycled materials
• > Versatile

CHECK ON MONARC

COOLEST BACKPACK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

COOLEST BACKPACK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

WNDRD PRVKE 31L Pack

• Price: > $$
• > Waterproof Tarpaulin and Ballistic Nylon material
• > Water bottle/tripod pocket

CHECK ON AMAZON CHECK ON WANDRD

COOL HIKING BACKPACK – TOP PICK

COOL HIKING BACKPACK – TOP PICK

Osprey Skarab 30 Hydration Men’s Pack

• Price: > $
• > Water bottle/tripod pocket
• > Internal frame

CHECK ON REI

COOLEST LEATHER BACKPACK

COOLEST LEATHER BACKPACK

Kodiak Kobuk

• Price: > $$$
• > Grade leather
• > Loads of features

CHECK ON KODIAK

COOL BACKPACK FOR DIGITAL NOMADS

COOL BACKPACK FOR DIGITAL NOMADS

Aer Travel Pack 2

• Price: > $$
• > Water-resistant 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior
• > Internal framesheet for structure and support

CHECK ON AER

Coolest Backpack for Organized Travel

Coolest Backpack for Organized Travel

Tropicfeel Shell

• Price > $$-$$$
• > Sleek design
• > Built-in wardrobe

Check on Tropicfeel

COOLEST BACKPACK FOR ECO CRED

COOLEST BACKPACK FOR ECO CRED

Osprey Archeon 45 Men’s Pack

• Price: > $$$
• > Recycled nylon/mesh
• > Internal frame

CHECK ON REI

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Sleek, sexy, and stylish, the Nomatic Navigator Travel Backpack is the outright COOLEST backpack for men!

Specs

• Dimensions: 22″ H x 14″ W x 9″ D
• Capacity: 32-41 L (with expansion)
• Weight: 5.2 lbs
• High-class organization
• Durable and water-resistant
• Tuckaway waist straps

Nomatic makes cool backpacks – that’s their wheelhouse. They’re sleek and sexy while coming complete with loads of organizational capabilities equipped for a modern-day traveler’s needs. A laptop sleeve and heaps of pockets for tech gear are standard couple with the durability to keep your expensive travel essentials safe.

However, a couple of their models are a bit cube-like in their design, but look at the curves on this bad boy! A cool man needs a cool backpack and this one is guaranteed to turn a few eyes when you’re traipsing through the streets of a new city.

The 32 liter capacity expands up to 41 litres making it a good size for both a travel pack AND a daypack (while still usally qualifying for carry-on luggage), meanwhile, the load-bearing harness system keeps the weight flowing to all the right places. There’ll be no poor posture when you’re striking a pose for some radicool city-skyline profile pics!

And while we haven’t reviewed the Nomatic Navigator pack, you can check out our in-depth review of the Nomatic Travel Bag to see what Nomatic is about!

Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack is our #2 top pick for the cool backpack for men

Specs

• 45L:
• Dimensions: 22″ H x 14″ W x 9″ D
• Capacity: 45 liters
• Weight: 5.1 lbs
• 35L:
• Dimensions: 20.3″ H x 12.9″ W x 8.2″ D
• Capacity: 35 liters
• Weight: 4.6 lbs
• Ariaprene foam padding
• Laptop and tablet sleeve
• Lockable zippers

The Tortuga Outbreaker is an awesome bag if you need a bit more space to fit everything you need. It offers the convenience and comfort of a backpack but has all of the organizational features of a suitcase. It’s available in 35L and 45L size to accommodate longer trips.

The organization of this bag is stellar. The streamlined TSA-compliant computer sleeve is packed with pockets to keep all of your electronics tidy. There’s a front organization pocket to easily access important documents and accessories that you can arrange to your liking. Not to mention the side pockets to fit a water bottle or two and all the inner compartments to keep your clothing, underwear and toiletries in pristine order.

The Outbreaker is made with classic, resilient waterproof sailcloth that makes for one stylish, super cool backpack for men. And no need to worry about comfort – the padded hip belt and height-adjustable suspension system ensure the most comfortable fit possible.

Check out our in-depth Tortuga Outbreaker review

Meet the cool backpack for men (carry on): Monarc Duffel Backpack

Specs

• Carry-on dimensions: 24″ H x 13″ W x 11″ D
• Capacity: 40L
• Weight: 4.5 lbs
• Made from fully recycled materials
• Great versatility
• Hideaway shoulder straps
• Water bottle pocket

If you’re after a carry-on approved backpack that looks cool AF, and is made from recycled materials then meet the Settra from Monarc. Its a duffel backpack meaning it can be used as a backpack or a duffel and it utilises a very innovative design and layout.

40L is a good amount of room and can handle a wide range of different trips. The features are actually relevant and usable with , a ventilated/removable shoe compartment, water/sweat resistant RPET fabric, 17” Laptop Pocket, and locking zippers – all of this will come in handy for both the gym and the road.

Whilst not primarily designed as hiking pack, it can be used in this way thanks to the Removable and adjustable sternum and waist straps along with airmesh ventilation deliver premium comfort for the long hauls.

WNDRD PRVKE 31L Pack is one of the coolest backpack for photographers

Specs

• Dimensions: 19″H X 12.5″W X 7.5″D
• Volume: 31 L to 36 L (with roll-top extended)
• Weight: 3.4 lbs
• Waterproof Tarpaulin and Ballistic Nylon material
• Laptop and Tablet sleeves
• Water bottle/tripod pocket

There are lots of reasons why the PRVKE pack is an award-winning camera bag and makes my top pick as the coolest backpack for photographers. Its innovative design and high quality are unmatched in the world of camera travel backpacks. And it’s available in 3 cool colors for a sleek, stylish look.

Accessing your personal items is super easy with its roll-top that can also be expanded to create 5 more liters of space. It has magnetic handles for easier portability – how cool is that? You can be sure your gear will stay safe in all conditions with the pack’s durable and water-resistant material.

Any photographer knows that having easy access to your camera is key. The PRVKE has 2 access points to the bag’s main compartment, so no need for fumbling to get what you need. The removable camera cube makes things even more convenient and secure. When it comes to cool backpacks for photographers, this one can’t be beaten.

Check out our in-depth Wandrd Prvke 31 review

Stylish, cool and ever so manly.

Specs

• Dimensions: 21″ H x 13″ W x 11″ D
• Volume: 30L
• Top Grain Leather
• Magnetic buckle
• Padded laptop sleeve

If you are after a well and truly cool backpack then look not further than the Kobuk by Kodiak. It’s a classy, suave, rugged and truly masculine leather backpack that’s as comfortable in the city as it is out in the sticks.

For such as simple looking bag, it actually packs a lot in. Across the top-grain leather, you’ll find zippered openings, padded straps, and magnetically locking buckles for extra security and comfort.  Further, there’s a separate pocket for your laptop, your phone, pens, keys, and wallet. You can keep every part of your arsenal within easy reach. This bag has a splash of extra space compared to many leather backpacks that make it a great leather weekender bag.

Kodiak don’t make cheap products but they really are an investment. This one will probably outlive pretty much every other backpack on this list.

Our top pick for the cool hiking backpack: Osprey Skarab 30 Hydration Men’s Pack

Specs

• Dimensions: 21″H X 13″W X 11″D
• Volume: 30L
• Liquid capacity: 84.5 fl oz (2.5L)
• High-denier nylon material
• Internal frame
• Hip belt

The Osprey Skarab pack has everything a hiker needs – space, comfort, functionality and versatility. If you’ve been worried about being able to find a cool hiking backpack for men, put your mind at ease because this is it!

Zippered, dual large side panel and hip belt pockets provide plenty of space for everything you need for a day on the trails. You’ll have access to plenty of hydration with the included 2.5L reservoir in the Skarab’s custom-built hydration compartment. Easily access your small hiking necessities in the front zippered pocket.

Besides the ample storage space and a multitude of compartments, you’ll also find plenty of attachment points and compression straps to attach accessories like trekking poles or ice axes. You can customize this hiking backpack to suit all of your needs, from a leisurely day trip to the most rigorous day hike.

Check out our in-depth Osprey Skarab review

For another coolest day hiking backpack, checkout the Osprey Talon 33 Men’s Pack

Specs

• Dimensions: 24″H X 12″W X 11″D
• Volume:
• M/L: 33 liters
• S/M: 31 liters
• Sizes:
• M/L: fits torso length 19-23 inches, fits waist/hips 28-50 inches
• S/M: fits torso length 16-20 inches, fits waist/hips 26-45 inches
• Nylon material
• Internal frame

If your hiking needs require packing a little extra gear – like layers for colder weather, for an overnight excursion or family-friendly accessories for kids – the Osprey Talon is the coolest day hiking pack you guys will find.

Its design is simple but includes everything a hiker needs – an ample main compartment, large front pocket, hip belt pockets, and side water bottle pockets. There’s plenty of space to pack in a down shell jacket, extra snacks, or your child’s favorite toy!

The hydration sleeve is conveniently placed on the outside of the main compartment that makes refilling a hydration reservoir easy and avoids the risk of getting your main contents wet. The frame is resilient and secure and you can achieve optimum comfort by adjusting the torso length for a snug fit.

The Talon has all of the streamlined effectiveness and style you can expect from Osprey. They’ve got it nailed down when it comes to cool backpacks for men at an affordable price.

Check out our in-depth Osprey Talon 33 review

Our top pick for the cool backpack for digital nomads: Aer Travel Pack

Specs

• Dimensions: 21.5″H X 13.5″W X 8.5″D
• Volume: 33L
• Weight: 3.9 lbs
• Water-resistant 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior
• Internal framesheet for structure and support
• Side compression straps
• Sternum and load lifter straps

It doesn’t get more streamlined and sleek-looking than this all-black Aer Travel Pack, making it my #1 pick for a cool backpack for men, specifically for us digital nomads. It’s compact, expertly designed for staying organized, and fits an on-the-go nomad’s lifestyle to a tee.

The Aer Travel Pack’s design is awesome. Packing is so easy with the clamshell opening and there are separate quick-access pockets for your most essential items like your small valuables and your laptop. You’ll appreciate the ventilated compartment that lets you keep shoes or dirty clothes away from the rest of your stuff.

You’ll get maximum versatility with a padded top and side handle to choose how you want to carry it. You can even convert the bag from a carry-on backpack to a smaller daypack. Seriously, guys, this bag doesn’t miss a beat.

Check out our in-depth Aer Travel Pack 2 review

The best present of all… is CONVENIENCE!

Now, you could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Buy on REI!

Tropicfeel Shell is the go-to when it comes to organized travel

Specs

• Size (at full capacity) – 20 in x 12 in x 7.5 in (50.8 x 30.5 x 19.1 cm)
• Weight (at full capacity) – 3.3 lb (1.5 kg)
• Storage (at full capacity) – 40 L
• Fasten Type – Zips and clips
• Price – $290

The Shell by Tropicfeel is a relatively new find to us at the Broke Backpacker but may just have changed the very fact of one bag travel. Firstly, the Tropicfeel Shell has an adjustable capacity extending from a 22L day pack to a full 40L carry-on, overnight, weekend sized pack. This saves you from having to bring a second pack to use for day trips and visits to the beach. Result.

The next awesome feature is that it literally comes with a built-in hanging wardrobe! You pack your clothes neatly into the mesh wardrobe, pop it inside the Shell and then unpack it and hang it up once you arrive at your destination!

It’s a great bag for those who like to travel neat and also for business people who kind of need to stay presentable and organised. It’s made from fully sustainable materials making the Shell an all-round hit with us at The Broke Backpacker.

Solgaard Shore Tex Lifepack is one of the coolest solar backpack

Specs

• Dimensions: 18.5″H X 11.6″W X 7″D
• Volume: 18L
• Weight: 4 lbs
• Shore-Tex™ fabric made of ocean-bound plastic
• Fits up to a 15” laptop

The fact that this backpack lets you charge your phone and electronic devices with solar power already makes it cool. Add to that the fact that it’s made with a fabric that’s made from upcycled ocean-bound plastic, and you have the ultimate in cool backpacks for men.

You can get the Lifepack with our without the Solarbank, if you happen to already have one. The Shore-Tex is also jam-packed with security features – like 4 secret pockets to stash away important ID documents and credit cards and Solgaard’s anti-theft patented lock.

Another added bonus its extremely streamlined design with just the right amount of pockets and organizational features to make life on-the-go that much easier. It’s secure, comfortable, and smart – just about everything you could want in a solar backpack.

Check out our in-depth Solgaard Lifepack review

Pacsafe Venturesafe 25L G3 Anti Theft Backpack is our top pick for the coolest anti-theft travel day pack

Specs

• Dimensions: 17.3″H X 9.7″W X 7.1″D
• Volume: 25L
• Weight: 1.7 lbs
• 100D Nylon Geo diamond ripstop exterior material
• Padded 15” laptop sleeve

When it comes to finding an ultra-secure, super cool backpack for men, pacsafe products nail it. The Venturesafe is the perfect, versatile anti-theft travel day pack for daily use or as a companion day pack for travel.

You can be sure your valuable personal belongings and expensive tech products will stay safe with all of its anti-theft features like lockable zippers and materials that are cut and slash-resistant. Keep your passport and credit cards secure by stashing them in the Venturesafe’s RFID blocking pocket.

On top of maximum anti-theft protection, pacsafe’s Venturesafe backpack features external attachment points to easily carry around small extras and an internal attachment point to easily access your keys and wallet. It’s got ample space and pockets for all of your essentials and removable hip belt for added comfort.

If security and theft are a top concern, this backpack is the right choice for you. You won’t regret it. Because of it’s anti-theft capabilities, it makes a great laptop bag. Its as safe as your belongings can get short of packing a portable travel safe.

Check out our in-depth Pacsafe Venturesafe 25 review

For another coolest backpack for eco cred, checkout the Osprey Archeon 45 Mens Pack

Specs

• Dimensions:
• L/XL: 28 x 12 x 12 inches
• S/M: 26 x 12 x 12 inches
• Volume:
• L/XL: 45 liters
• S/M: 43 liters
• Weight:
• L/XL: 4 lbs. 12.8 oz.
• S/M: 4 lbs. 6.4 oz.
• Sizes:
• L/XL: fits torso length 19-23 inches, fits waist/hips 28-50 inches
• S/M: fits torso length 17-21 inches, fits waist/hips 26-45 inches
• Recycled nylon/mesh
• Internal frame – HDPE frame sheet + 2 profiled aluminum alloy stays

Travel can take quite the toll on the environment so eco friendly backpacking gear should always be applauded. And when a fully recycled backpack also rocks the vintage cool image? Then look no further than the Osprey Archeon for one super cool backpack for men.

For one, it’s made with recycled materials treated with a water repellent finish and has a removable rain cover which is ideal for those sudden showers in Asia that can appear in the blink of an eye. Every inch of this backpack is functional, including the hip belts that include small zippered mesh pockets for stashing small items.

Lugging around all your gear can be hard on your back, but the Osprey is designed for all-day-comfort with an adjustable harness and sturdy internal frame to help spread the weight. You’ll also be grateful for the internal sleeve that can hold up to a 3-liter reservoir of water to keep you well hydrated in the hot, humid travel conditions.

Meet the coolest commuter backpack – the Gulu Made Innovator

Specs

• Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 7.5 in
• Volume: 22L
• Weight: 1.9 lbs
• Water resustant
• Lush inner lining
• Laptop and tablet sleeves
• Hand made in Uganda

Team up with the women of Gulu for your next commuter backpack, and you’ll receive a roomy pack with plenty of small pockets for essential details. The Gulu Made brand set up shop building a backpacking factory in Uganda and has entrusted the local community with making sustainable backpacks built to last. 

The Innovator Pack features two main compartments for the big stuff, plus two front pockets for quick access to the small stuff. Its also a comfy carry so you can well and truly keep your coo thanks t the Innovator Packs Lux-Comfort back panel…

This pack is stylish, minimal, ethical and has everything you need in a commuter backpack.

REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Pack

Another solid choice in the cool backpacks for men category is REI’s 28-liter Co-op Ruckpack. It’s a simple, functional pack that can serve a variety of functions from a hiking backpack to a daypack for longer travel.

It’s made of durable nylon material that makes it ideal for hitting the trails or for any off-the-beaten-track adventure. For travel, you have the option of using its attachable waistbelt and fastening the sternum strap for added comfort and stability. Oh, and the stowable rain cover is a nice bonus should you hit stormy weather along the way.

For a simple, versatile and affordable backpack, REI’s ruckpack has a lot to offer.

REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack

The 25-liter version of the REI Co-op pack is smaller and designed as a women’s backpack with contoured foam in the harness for a female-focused fit. It’s light, affordable and functional – making it a solid choice for a hiking trip or as a carry-on daypack.

A big plus about this backpack is that it’s made with all recycled materials, so you can feel good about protecting the environment and yourself! It has 5 compartments plus the main compartment, so you’ll have plenty of space to pack all of your essentials.

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

This travel backpack by Peak Design is also a strong contender in the cool backpack category. As far as having a functional yet fashionable all-in-one travel pack, this one delivers on all fronts.

Dual expansion zippers let this guy expand to 45 liters but compression snaps easily reduce it to its 35-liter configuration to meet international carry-on standards. The dual side zippers are a huge plus for having easy access to your camera or other important items. And it’s also 100% weatherproof.

Staying organized on-the-go is easy with the Peak Design pack’s front panel and four zip mesh pockets. You’ll love the zip-up dividing panel that gives you the option to separate the backpack into two separate compartments or merging into one depending on your needs. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, this backpack is worth it.

Check out our in-depth Peak Design Travel Backpack review

Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

If you’re looking for a cool backpack for men that has it all – look no further. The Nomatic Travel Bag is a versatile and well-designed bag that will prove useful for everyone. It’s compact yet spacious 30-liter capacity make it as practical for daily use as for hopping on a flight for a long weekend getaway.

Finding space to fit in everything you need is a breeze with all of the Nomatic’s special pockets and compartments. Its shoe compartment with a ventilated door and water bottle pocket makes it ideal for the gym, while you also have pockets for underwear, socks, and an RFID pocket for longer trips.

Speaking of versatility, its innovative strap system allows you to easily choose between backpack and duffel-style portability. And with its sleek, all-black modern design, this bag has cool nailed down.

Check out our in-depth Nomatic Travel Bag review

As I’ve mentioned before, there is no lack of choices when you’re in the market for cool backpacks. I’ve tried narrowing it down for you with my top picks, but as you keep shopping around, there are a few factors to keep in mind. Let’s take a closer look.

The Best Use for the Backpack

What was the backpack built for? A backpack designed for hiking will prioritize different features than a pack intended for travel photographers. A photographer is toting around expensive equipment so will want a bag designed for maximum protection of its contents while a hiker may prioritize a well-designed hydration reservoir compartment.

So it’s important to know the type of trip you’re looking to go on and what your most pressing needs will be. Often it’s not that a backpack is faulty or lacking, it’s just that it’s not being used in the way for which it was intended.

Cool Organizational Features

Perhaps the most essential feature of any backpack is how organized it lets you be while on-the-go.

Is it laptop-friendly? Does it have an accessible front panel for your ID and important documents? Does it provide easy access to a water bottle? Does it have a separate shoe compartment? Can the interior be divided into separate compartments?

Again, the definition of organized will depend on the activity you’re using it for, but having designated pockets, sleeves and compartments can definitely make your life a whole lot easier. Be sure you know what staying organized means to you and choose a backpack that fits the bill accordingly.

Cool Carry-On Packs

How important is it to you that the backpack you choose meets carry-on requirements?

The most notable benefits of a carry-on are avoiding the hassle of having to check in your bag, retrieving it at the airport – and possibly losing all your stuff in transit. One bag travel also means packing lighter and having less to keep track of and shuttle around.

If carry-on is one of your requirements, then you’ll want to narrow your search to packs up to 35 liters – anything over that will most likely be too big and will require check-in.

Durability vs Aesthetics

The good thing about backpacks for men these days is that you don’t have to sacrifice looks for function. Most modern travel backpacks are both tough and sexy.

Even the sleekest minimalist design – which screams cool – can be packed with innovative features and storage capacity that exceed your expectations. And the water-resilient, durable materials used in contemporary packs can handle anything.

The good news here is that a seemingly expensive pack is often worth every penny. Not only will it last you forever but a timeless design will keep you looking cool even in the most unsexy of travel conditions.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

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So, guys, I hope I’ve put your mind at rest about not being able to find a cool backpack for men that is functional in every way, yet also sexy.

Just be sure to know the main purpose of the bag, where and what conditions you intend to use it most, what your size limits are, and how long you want it to last. Once you’ve prioritized your needs, you’ll find the perfect backpack for you. Having trouble honing in on the right backpack for yourself? You can’t go wrong with our top pick: the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack.

Starpping on a new backpack is actually a lot of fun, so enjoy it. More importantly, go out into the world and put it to good use!

What are your thoughts? Did this top cool backpacks for men review help you? Anything I didn’t answer? Let me know in the comments below – thanks guys!

Bye for now, but not forever!

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!