Men's Backpack: A Complete Guide to Urban and Practical Style in the City

Are you looking for the ideal men's backpack , as aesthetic as it is functional , to accompany you daily in the urban jungle? Whether for going to work , for your leisure time or simply walking the streets of the city , the choice of a good backpack is crucial. In this article, we offer you a detailed guide to choosing the perfect backpack, covering the essential criteria to consider, the different types of bags suitable for urban life, maintenance and organization tips, as well as the importance of good design mixed with functionality. Get ready to find the ideal companion for your busy days!

The essential criteria for choosing a men's backpack

Choosing a backpack is no small feat: there are several key criteria to consider to find the one that best suits your needs and urban lifestyle. Let's review important points such as style , comfort , materials , capacity , security , practicality and organization. These elements will help you improve the quality of a model and determine whether it will be suitable for your daily uses.

Style and design adapted to urban life

You might think that style is secondary, and yet, it's impossible to ignore the design aspect when you carry a backpack every day. A bag can be ultra-practical, but if you don't like it aesthetically, you'll have a hard time adopting it! For urban use, the style must match your outfits and reflect your personality. Opt for a design that matches your look: for example, a clean and minimalist model for fans of a discreet style, while a bag with a vintage or streetwear look will appeal to those who like a more casual touch. Avoid designs that are too extravagant or too flashy , which risk going out of style quickly. Opt for sober colors (black, gray, navy blue, khaki, etc.), especially if you want your bag to work just as well in the office as it does on the street. In short, a good urban backpack must tick the style box as much as the practical one: it must have multiple pockets to carry your essentials without neglecting the fashion dimension . You can then wear it proudly in all circumstances, from the morning metro to going out with friends in the evening. 

Carrying comfort and ergonomics

Comfort is a key criterion, especially if you carry your bag for many hours a day. A poorly designed backpack can cause shoulder or back pain – definitely avoid it. So check the ergonomics of the desired model: padded and adjustable straps, wide enough to distribute the weight well, are essential to relieve your shoulders . A padded back with possibly semi-rigid reinforcement is also an asset to support your back and mold to its shape, especially if you are carrying a computer or heavy items. Don't hesitate to adjust the straps correctly: the bag should rest flat against your back, ideally positioned at the top of the back for good balance. Also, consider carrying your bag on two shoulders (and not just one) to distribute the load evenly and maintain your posture. Some urban bags also offer a chest or waist strap – this is rare on city models, but if you travel by bike, it can provide appreciable stability. In short, a comfortable men's backpack is almost invisible: it follows your movements without bothering you, even when it is full.

Manufacturing materials and durability

To tackle urban life, your bag needs to be sturdy and resistant to wear and tear. Take a close look at the materials used and the quality of manufacture. Men's backpacks are mainly available in three material families: leather , fabric ( cotton, canvas, etc.), and synthetic materials (polyester, nylon, Cordura, etc.). Each has its advantages:

• Leather offers an elegant and timeless style, perfect for professional use. If it 's of good quality (full-grain leather, thick and supple), it will even gain character over time. On the other hand, a leather bag is generally heavier and requires regular maintenance (polishing, nourishing cream) to stay beautiful.
• Cotton or canvas fabrics create a casual or vintage look. If the fabric is thick and well-woven, the bag will be durable. These fabrics are often waxed or treated to be water-resistant. Look for sturdy stitching and leather reinforcements at sensitive areas (corners, handles), which can extend the bag's lifespan.
• Synthetic materials ( polyester, ballistic nylon, etc.) are very common for modern urban bags. Lightweight and durable, they withstand friction well and can be easily waterproofed. A quality nylon (Cordura or Ripstop type) offers excellent durability. Make sure the seams are strong and the zippers are of a good brand (YKK, for example, is a guarantee of quality).

A well-designed bag will also have careful finishing touches : durable interior lining, firmly anchored straps, reliable metal fasteners and buckles, etc. Let's not forget the question of rain resistance : in the city you are never safe from a downpour. Many bags are water-repellent , that is to say they resist light rain without water penetrating immediately. This is often sufficient for normal city use . If you live in a very rainy region or you travel outdoors a lot, you can opt for a waterproof bag , or even an additional rain cover, to protect your equipment at all costs. Keep in mind, however, that a completely waterproof material (like plastic tarpaulin) can be less breathable and a little less aesthetic – a compromise to be evaluated according to your priorities.

Bag capacity and size

The size of your backpack, often expressed in liters (its capacity ), should be chosen based on what you usually plan to put in it. Ask yourself: what things will I carry on a daily basis? A student will not have the same needs as an executive who goes to the office or an urban globetrotter. For typical office use (15'' laptop, a few files, a water bottle, a pencil case, a charger, etc.), an average volume of around 20 liters is generally sufficient . Moreover, most urban backpacks are between 15 and 30 L, with 20 L being a very common size . If you tend to carry an extra jacket, your lunch, or even your sports gear, plan for a 25 to 30 L bag to avoid being cramped. On the other hand, if you travel light or adopt a minimalist approach, a small 10-15 L bag can do the trick to carry just the essentials without weighing you down. Be careful not to take a bag that is too large for nothing : a large bag that is half empty risks bouncing around and being more cumbersome on public transport or in elevators. Conversely, a bag that is too small and filled to the brim will be uncomfortable and will deteriorate more quickly. Look for the happy medium that suits your lifestyle . Note that some bags offer expandability (gussets, expansion zippers) which is practical for gaining a few liters occasionally, or conversely compression straps to reduce the volume when the bag is not full. By anticipating your needs carefully, you can choose a backpack that is the optimal size : spacious enough to hold everything, but still compact and light on your back.

Security and protection of your personal belongings

In an urban environment, the security of your belongings is an aspect that should not be neglected. Since pickpockets and petty theft are common in large cities (there are an average of 131,000 pickpocketing incidents per year in France) , it is better to have a backpack that incorporates some security features. Many recent urban models offer ingenious anti-theft features: for example, hidden zippers (placed against the back, inaccessible when you are wearing the bag), secret pockets on the back or inside to discreetly store any wallet and papers, or even anti-cut materials resistant to blades ( The ultimate guide to choosing a . These details can make the difference in discouraging opportunistic thieves on the crowded subway. Some anti-theft backpacks are even equipped with integrated code locks on the zippers or reinforced metal straps. Without going that far, you can also add small padlocks yourself to the classic zippers if necessary. Also think about IT security : pockets with anti-RFID lining can protect your bank cards and Navigo passes from scans fraudulent, a welcome plus. Finally, security also means protecting your valuables against: make sure your laptop components are securely tucked into a padded compartment , and that the bag is waterproof in case of rain (we talked about this in the materials section). On a daily basis, having peace of mind about the security of your backpack is a real added comfort. You can walk down the street or take your bike without stress, knowing that your belongings are safe behind your back.

Interior organization and practical features

Last important criterion: practicality in everyday life, which involves good organization of storage. A bag may seem spacious, but if it only has one compartment where everything is mixed up, you waste a lot of time looking for your keys at the bottom... So choose a backpack with smart compartments and well-designed pockets. Most urban bags for men now offer a dedicated pocket for laptops , often up to 15 or 16 inches. It has become essential : this pocket protects your laptop from shocks and holds it securely against your back (which also improves the support of the bag ) . Check that it is well padded and, if possible, slightly raised from the bottom of the bag to prevent the PC from touching the ground when you put the bag down. In addition, look at the number of interior pockets : small zipped or mesh pockets are ideal for storing your phone, wallet, passport, pens, etc., without them moving around everywhere. Some brands add internal organizers (card slots, pencil holders, keychain carabiners) that make life easier for the organized person. On the outside, side pockets can be very practical for a water bottle or a compact umbrella. A shoe or wet laundry compartment can be useful if you're going to the gym. Think about accessories that would simplify your life: an audio cable or USB port (some bags have a USB port connected to an internal battery to recharge your smartphone while walking), reflective strips to be seen at night when cycling, a concealable waist strap, etc. Of course, the more features there are, the more expensive the bag can be—target those that will really be useful to you. The goal is to have a backpack where everything has its place : you can sort your notebook or headphones in a second instead of emptying the entire bag onto a bench to find them. A good interior layout saves you time and energy, day after day. A combination of style and practicality: a leather backpack worn with office attire proves that it's possible to be elegant while remaining practical. Whether you're heading to the office in a suit or heading to a business meeting, a carefully designed backpack can perfectly complement a formal outfit. Here, the leather details and color of the bag harmoniously complement the blazer, showing that a well-chosen urban bag can be a welcome replacement for a traditional briefcase.

The different types of urban backpacks for every need

Not all backpacks are created equal and not all backpacks are designed for the same uses. Fortunately, today there is a wide range of backpacks designed for specific urban situations: work, leisure, minimalist, high-tech... There's a backpack for every lifestyle! Here's an overview of the main categories of men's urban backpacks to help you identify the type of bag you need based on your primary use.

Backpack for work and office

If you're looking for a backpack to take to work , you'll need a model that 's stylish , functional , and discreet enough for a professional environment. Gone are the days when backpacks were too "teenager-ish" to be worn with a suit: more and more businessmen are opting for this format, which is much more practical than a briefcase or a document holder. For office use, choose a bag with a simple , modern design. Materials like smooth leather or thick, plain canvas (black, brown, navy blue) immediately give a more formal look. The shape can be structured (a little square) to recall a briefcase, or on the contrary, a more rounded but minimalist format. The important thing is that it can hold your laptop and files without forcing them. Look for a model with a dedicated computer compartment, pockets for your pens , chargers, mouse, etc., and possibly a special pocket for a badge or transport card within easy reach. Comfort is also important: even in a suit, you'll appreciate comfortable shoulder straps when traveling between home and work. Some "special business" bags also offer a strap for attaching the bag to the handle of a trolley suitcase during your business trips. In terms of style, a successful work backpack should fit in with your office outfits without overshadowing them—remember, it'll be sitting next to you in meetings, so it better make a good impression too! Fortunately, many brands now offer chic business backpacks, combining aesthetics (sleek design, beautiful metallic finishes) and practicality (clever storage, durability). You can go to the office with a backpack that asserts your professionalism while simplifying your life.

Backpack for leisure and everyday life

Outside of the professional setting, the backpack becomes the accomplice of your leisure activities and various outings. Whether for an afternoon of shopping in town, a sports session, a Sunday stroll or a coffee on the terrace with friends, a versatile urban backpack will allow you to carry your belongings in style and relaxation. This type of bag can afford to be a little more original or colorful than the work bag. For example, a khaki canvas roll-top bag for an urban adventurer look, a vintage bag with buckle clasps for a retro style, or even a brightly colored bag for a strong streetwear spirit - it's up to you to see what fits your personality. The important thing is that it is versatile : large enough to accommodate a light jacket, a camera, a water bottle, a few everyday items depending on the day... while remaining comfortable to follow you in your activities. Backpacks for everyday life often focus on lightness and simplicity . They may have fewer technical compartments than a work bag, but often practical exterior pockets (to slip in a travel guide, a notebook, headphones, etc.). In this category, you will find many bags made of canvas or nylon, easy to care for and with a casual look. Some "leisure" models are inspired by street and urban fashion codes: camo prints, visible logos, customizable badges, etc., for a trendy style in the city. Finally, let's not forget the specific needs of certain urban leisure activities: for example, if you travel by skateboard or scooter, there are backpacks with straps to attach the board. For the gym, a separate compartment for shoes or sales linen can be useful. In short, the leisure backpack must be a stylish Swiss army knife , ready for anything to accompany you from morning to night in your urban adventures.

 A casual urban backpack is the perfect companion for your city outings. This type of model, often made of canvas or lightweight nylon, blends into the streetscape while adding a touch of style to your outfit. Whether you're strolling through trendy neighborhoods, going on a shopping spree, or grabbing a quick coffee, the leisure backpack is up to the task: it's spacious enough to hold your small purchases and daily essentials without ever weighing you down. The young man in the photo perfectly illustrates this laid-back attitude : bag on his back, hands-free, and a relaxed look to fully enjoy city life.

Minimalist and compact backpacks

Are you one of those who likes to travel light , carrying only the essentials? Then a minimalist backpack could become your best ally. These compact backpacks, generally small in capacity (often between 10 and 15 liters), are designed to carry only what you really need on a daily basis, no more and no less. Their main advantage: a small footprint and often a refined style. Many minimalist models adopt a very sober design, without prominent exterior pockets, with simple lines and solid colors. Worn on the back, they offer a slim profile that won't be general in crowded transport or on a bicycle. With a compact bag, no more time wasted searching for your belongings – you only brought a few and they are immediately accessible. These bags are well suited, for example, for those who only carry a tablet or a small computer, a notebook, a paperback book and a bottle of water. Some minimalist models emphasize a very trendy modern aesthetic , almost becoming a fashion accessory in their own right. Wearing a small, minimalist black backpack can complete a trendy, minimalist look. Lightweight and often made of durable materials, these bags won't weigh you down. Be careful, though: their limited space means you can't afford to overstock. You need to be disciplined when sorting your belongings on a daily basis. If you sometimes think you might need more space, consider a modular bag or a roll-top bag that allows you to expand the volume a little when needed. But if the "less is more" philosophy appeals to you, then a minimalist backpack will give you great freedom of movement and impeccable style, all in simplicity.

Technological and high-tech backpacks

We live in the digital age, and our backpacks adapt to it! High-tech or "connected" backpacks are perfect for geeky men, nomadic workers, or simply those who carry a lot of electronic gadgets on a daily basis. What sets them apart? First, a central design focused on the protection and organization of your electronic devices : padded compartment for the computer and sometimes for the tablet, specific pockets for the smartphone, external battery, hard drive, and loops to organize the cables. Everything is designed to prevent your headphones from getting tangled with your charger or your mouse from scratching your screen. Then, these bags often include innovative features . A very common example is the integrated USB port : it is a small socket on the outside of the bag connected to an internal pocket where you place your power bank. You can thus charge your phone while holding it in your hand, via the bag, without having to let the battery stick out – clever for heavy smartphone users on the go. Other high-tech models incorporate special materials or devices: some have flashing LED strips to signal your presence at night (practical for cycling), others even integrate solar panels to recharge your devices while walking. The anti-theft dimension is often coupled with tech bags, because gadgets mean valuables: thus, we find high-tech bags with hidden zippers, anti-slash fabric, anti-RFID pocket, etc. The design of these bags is generally modern, even futuristic – angular shapes, black or gray colors with a few touches of neon color or reflective material for the tech side. They are very suitable for a modern urban outfit . Keep in mind that all these innovations can add a little weight to the empty bag (battery, components, etc.), but manufacturers try to source lightweight materials. If you're the type of person who carries a computer, tablet, camera, wireless headphones, and more, a tech backpack will protect your valuable gear and provide a cutting-edge user experience. It's sure to delight even the most tech-savvy among us when we're out and about in the city!

In short, there's an urban backpack for every user profile. Be sure to define your priorities (going to the office, playing sports, traveling light, carrying lots of gadgets, etc.) to guide you towards the most suitable bag category. To give you ideas and see what these different types of bags look like, you can browse our selection of urban backpacks on DrifterPack – you'll find a range of styles corresponding to each of the uses described above. Chances are, one of them will be exactly what you're looking for!

Practical tips for maintaining and organizing your backpack in the city

Once you have your backpack in hand, you still need to keep it in good condition and use it optimally. Here are some practical maintenance and organization tips to extend the life of your bag and get the most out of its storage space on a daily basis. A well-maintained and well-organized bag means less stress and time saved during your trips around town .

Maintaining and cleaning your backpack

Urban life can be harmful to your backpack: rain, pollution, rubbing on the subway... Regular maintenance is essential to keep it clean and strong for a long time. Adapt the cleaning to the material of your bag. For a fabric bag (polyester, canvas, etc.), hand cleaning is often recommended: empty the bag completely, then wipe the stains and dirty areas with a warm, damp cloth with a little mild soap. Rub gently, rinse with a clean, damp cloth, then let it air dry (avoid the dryer, which could damage the lining or deform the bag). If a musty smell sets in, a little trick from grandma is to sprinkle the inside with baking soda, leave it on overnight, then vacuum the powder: odors neutralized! For a leather bag , the ritual is different: dust it with a dry cloth regularly, and occasionally apply a special leather nourishing cream to keep it supple and prevent it from cracking. Also, be careful not to store it in an overly humid place. In case of rain, always let your bag (leather or fabric) dry thoroughly once you bring it inside, to avoid mold or odors. Remember to waterproof your bag if it wasn't already done when you bought it: a waterproofing spray (adapted to the material) can be applied to canvas or leather to create a protective barrier against water and stains – very useful for facing urban weather. In terms of wear and tear , keep an eye on sensitive points: straps, handles, zippers. If a seam starts to come loose, reinforce it before it completely gives way. Lubricate the zippers from time to time with a little paraffin or candle wax to keep them smooth. By adopting these small maintenance habits, your backpack will maintain its look and performance, even after months of intensive use in the urban jungle.

Organize the inside of your bag well

A well- organized backpack is a guarantee of everyday efficiency. Here are some tips to optimize the storage of your belongings and easily access everything you need, even in the middle of the street. First, assign a fixed place to each category of objects: for example, keys in the small front pocket or attached to the internal carabiner (if your bag has one), wallet and papers in an interior zippered pocket for added security, computer in its dedicated sleeve, etc. By being consistent, you'll immediately know where each item is. Then, don't hesitate to use additional pockets or internal pouches to compartmentalize the interior. Small bags or pencil cases (for your cables and electronic accessories, for your pens and notepads, for your hygiene products, etc.) keep things organized and prevent them from scattering at the bottom of the bag. If you're carrying your lunch, plan for a plastic bag or a special compartment to separate the food from the rest - you can never be too careful with sauce leaks! Remember to distribute the weight optimally: place the heaviest items against your back and rather at the top of the bag, at shoulder level, for better balance and less pressure on the reins . For example, your cell phone and books near the back panel, and lighter items (sweater, gloves, headphones) further away. This way, the center of gravity of the bag remains close to your body, which will make it feel lighter. When you walk or run to catch the bus, it will move less. Another tip: regularly lighten the contents. We tend to accumulate unnecessary things in our bag (expired tickets, old chargers, dead pens, etc.). Do the three each week to keep only the essentials and avoid tiring yourself out with unnecessary weight. Finally, adopt good security reflexes in the city: always close your zippers properly (don't leave a closed zipper behind you, it tempts pickpockets), and on crowded transport, you can even sling your backpack in front of you across your chest – this protects your belongings and avoids bothering other passengers. With a well-organized bag, you'll be able to grab your phone to answer a call or whip out your umbrella in the blink of an eye as soon as the first drops of rain hit, without frantically searching for long minutes. It's a life-changing experience!

 An organized overview of the contents of an urban backpack: laptop, notebook, and accessories neatly stored. Taking the time to properly arrange each item in your bag makes life much easier. This image shows how methodical packing a bag for the day can be: the laptop is protected by a sleeve, the notebook is kept closed and accessible, the pens and ruler are attached, and even stickers personalize the whole thing. By adopting good organizational practices, your backpack becomes an efficient mobile office where everything is in its place, ready to be used at the right time.

The importance of design and functionality for everyday use

As we've seen throughout this guide, a good urban backpack must strike the right balance between design and functionality . Far from being mere marketing considerations, these two aspects are truly inseparable for satisfactory daily use .

When it comes to design , it's all about choosing a bag that you like and that fits your personal style. Because you'll be wearing it day in and day out, it should make you feel confident and complement your outfits rather than clash with them. A well-designed bag can be a key element of your look, just like a nice pair of shoes or a watch. In an urban environment where appearance matters (especially at work, or when interacting on the street), sporting a neat backpack shows that you take care of your accessories and that you have style. Furthermore, an attractive and well-designed bag can follow you in both formal and casual settings, which means you don't have to change bags depending on the occasion.

However, even the most beautiful bag will be of no use to you if it is not functional . That is why the practical part is just as crucial: your bag must simplify your daily life, not complicate it. Well-placed pockets, carrying comfort, sturdiness – these technical elements allow you to save time and make your travels easier. A functional bag is, for example, one that allows you to take out your laptop in 2 seconds during a meeting without disturbing everything, or to find your pair of headphones without having to empty the contents onto a public bench. It is also a bag that does not cause you physical pain despite the weight, thanks to its ergonomics, and which protects your precious belongings whatever happens.

The ideal , of course, is to make no compromises and opt for a backpack that is both attractive and practical. Brands have understood this and are offering more and more models that tick all the boxes . No more difficult choices between the stylish but uncomfortable bag and the ultra-technical but questionable-looking bag: today, you can absolutely have both! Innovative materials make it possible to design elegant bags that are also weather-resistant, and designers collaborate with ergonomists to imagine clever storage without spoiling the overall aesthetic of the product. As a user, this means that you can truly find a "perfect" bag for your daily use: one that matches your image, while providing you with countless practical services.

By choosing a men's backpack that combines design and functionality, you'll make your life easier every day. Every morning, you'll be happy to grab it as you leave, and throughout the day it will be easy to forget you're wearing it (thanks to its comfort) while remaining stylish (thanks to its style). Why choose between style and practicality when a good bag offers both? That's ultimately the lesson of this guide: don't sacrifice anything, demand the best of both worlds for your urban travel companion.

Discover your next urban backpack at Drifter Pack

You now have all the keys to choosing the backpack that's right for you. All that's left is to take action and find the model that meets all your expectations . Why not start your search by exploring our dedicated collection? At DrifterPack , we've put together a wide selection of men's backpacks that combine urban style with practical features. Whether you need a stylish bag for the office, a sturdy companion for cruising the streets, or a clever model for organizing your gadgets, you'll essentially find what you're looking for. Don't wait any longer to find the backpack that will reflect your personality while simplifying your days in the city. Click on the link and take another step towards the ideal urban backpack - the one that will never leave your side and will become the essential partner of your daily life. It's up to you to adopt the perfect backpack and walk the city with style and confidence!